Gospel of Matthew, chapter 5:10

The eighth beatitude addresses the persecution that a Christian must endure in this life while following the example of Jesus. The life of the Christian may be a fulfilled and happy life; but it is no bed of roses either. The following reflection by mother Theresa on the eighth beatitude shows that persecution is normal for the Christian.

People are unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.

If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.

People really need help but may attack you if you help them.
Help people anyway.

Give the world the best you’ve got and you’ll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

“Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Mother Theresa of Calcutta