Daily Readings - Sat Jul 19 2025
Exodus
37And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children.38And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.39And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual.40Now the sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt, was four hundred and thirty years.41And it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and thirty years, even the selfsame day it came to pass, that all the hosts of the LORD went out from the land of Egypt.42It is a night to be much observed unto the LORD for bringing them out from the land of Egypt: this is that night of the LORD to be observed of all the children of Israel in their generations.
Matthew
14Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.15But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all;16And charged them that they should not make him known:17That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,18Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.19He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets.20A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.21And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.
Sermon
The first reading from Exodus recounts the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, marking the end of their 430-year sojourn and the beginning of their journey to freedom. The text emphasizes the urgency of their exit, as they left with unleavened bread, unable to wait for it to rise. This moment is not just a historical event but a sacred observance, a night to be remembered for generations—a testament to God's deliverance. The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus, who, aware of the Pharisees' plot against him, withdraws and continues his ministry of healing. Here, Jesus embodies the gentle and humble servant prophesied by Isaiah, one who brings hope not through confrontation but through quiet, steadfast love.
Both readings invite us to reflect on trust and humility. The Israelites had to trust God's plan, leaving behind the familiar and embracing the unknown. Similarly, Jesus, in the face of opposition, trusted in his Father's will, choosing not to confront but to continue his mission of healing and hope. These stories remind us that God often works in ways that are not loud or forceful but gentle and persistent. Like the Israelites, we are called to trust in God's timing and provision, even when the path ahead is uncertain. Like Jesus, we are called to approach life with humility, avoiding unnecessary conflict and instead seeking to bring light and hope to those around us.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to embrace trust and humility. When we feel pressured or threatened, we can withdraw to a place of prayer and discernment, trusting that God is at work. When we face opposition or difficulty, we can choose to respond with gentleness rather than aggression, knowing that true strength lies in meekness. Let us remember that our ultimate hope is not in our own efforts but in the quiet, persistent work of God's Spirit in us and through us. May we, like the Israelites and like Jesus, walk in faith and humility, trusting that God's plan will prevail.