The Word gave life to everything that was created,
and his life brought light to everyone.
He existed in the beginning with God.
God created everything through him,
and nothing was created except through him.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.