Daily Readings - Sat Jul 20 2019

³⁷And the sons of Israel set out from Rameses to Soccoth, about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides little ones³⁸But also an innumerable mix of common people ascended with them, sheep and herds and animals of diverse kinds, exceedingly many³⁹And they baked the bread, which a little while ago they had taken out of Egypt as dough. And they made unleavened bread baked under ashes. For it was not able to be leavened, with the Egyptians compelling them to leave and not permitting them to cause any delay. Neither did they have occasion to prepare any meat⁴⁰Now the habitation of the sons of Israel, while they remained in Egypt, was four hundred and thirty years⁴¹Having been completed, on the same day all the army of the Lord departed from the land of Egypt⁴²This night is a worthy observance of the Lord, when he led them out of the land of Egypt. This all the sons of Israel must observe in their generations

Matthew

Chapter 12

¹⁴Then the Pharisees, departing, took council against him, as to how they might destroy him¹⁵But Jesus, knowing this, withdrew from there. And many followed him, and he cured them all¹⁶And he instructed them, lest they make him known¹⁷Then what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah was fulfilled, saying¹⁸"Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom my soul is well pleased. I will place my Spirit over him, and he shall announce judgment to the nations¹⁹He shall not contend, nor cry out, neither shall anyone hear his voice in the streets²⁰He shall not crush the bruised reed, and he shall not extinguish the smoking wick, until he sends forth judgment unto victory²¹And the Gentiles shall hope in his name.

Sermon

In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful moments of liberation and fulfillment. The first reading from Exodus describes the Israelites’ departure from Egypt, a pivotal moment in their history. The text emphasizes the haste of their departure, as they left with unleavened bread, symbolizing their trust in God’s providence. This event marks the beginning of their journey toward freedom and their identity as God’s chosen people. The second reading from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus, who, despite facing opposition from the Pharisees, continues his mission of healing and teaching. The passage highlights Jesus’ gentle and non-confrontational approach, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy of a servant who brings hope and judgment to the nations. These readings are deeply connected. The Exodus narrative reminds us of God’s faithfulness and the importance of trust in times of uncertainty. Similarly, Matthew’s Gospel shows us Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises, embodying humility and compassion. Both readings invite us to reflect on how God works in our lives, often in unexpected and quiet ways. Just as the Israelites had to trust in God’s plan despite the chaos of their departure, we too are called to trust in God’s timing and wisdom, even when the path ahead seems unclear. In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to embrace humility and gentleness. Like Jesus, we are called to serve others without seeking power or recognition. We are reminded that true strength lies not in force or noise, but in patience and compassion. As we navigate our own journeys, may we draw inspiration from the Israelites’ trust in God and Jesus’ example of servant leadership. Let us strive to live with faith, hope, and love, trusting that God is always at work, even in the quietest moments.