Readings: Exodus 12:37-42, Psalm 136 and Matthew 12:14-21
“The time that the people of Israel dwelt in Egypt was four hundred and thirty years… It was a night of watching by the LORD, to bring them out of the land of Egypt; so this same night is a night of watching kept to the Lord.” (Exodus 12:40-41)
Finally, as we read in today’s first reading, the children of Israel were freed from the bondage of Pharaoh’s captivity. They did not come to Egypt to become slaves, but everything changed once a Pharaoh arose who was unfamiliar with Joseph. This Pharaoh was so afraid of the Israelites that he tried all he could to decimate their population, killing their male children. Whether you accept it or not, abortion is genocide.
The Israelites cried out to God for 430 years, and when God was ready to liberate them, He chose a leader: Moses. By accepting this special call, Moses became a kind of Jesus Christ; that is, a prefiguration. When God wants to do something phenomenal, He always uses a person. Perhaps, as you read this, you, too, may be that one person that God has chosen. Wouldn’t you say “yes” to God?
Moses delivered God’s message: “Let My People Go.” Pharaoh, like many leaders in today’s world, refused. He would rather keep a whole nation enslaved and oppressed than allow them to go and form their own country. But this wasn’t going to last long. God showed that He is greater than Pharaoh. Our leaders must learn that leadership is a transient quality. If being in power is no longer for the benefit of those under you, let the people go, or you may find yourself contending with God.
The Pharisees were plotting against Jesus, but this did not stop Jesus from continuing His good work. All those who came to Him received healing. This tells us the extent of God’s mercy. Truly, God cares. Just as He saved the people of Israel from bondage, God saves us from the bondage of our sicknesses and diseases when we call on him. The people of Israel cried to Him from Egypt, and He rescued them. Do not lose heart, cry to God and He will rescue you.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, save us from bad leaders. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saturday of week 15 in Ordinary Time Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Exodus 12:37-42, Psalm 136 and Matthew 12:14-21).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu