Micah 2:1-5
Psalm 9B(10):1-4,7-8,14
Matthew 12:14-21
DOING GOD’S WILL, NO MATTER WHAT COMES OUR WAY
In today’s gospel passage, the Pharisees conspired to consider how they might undermine Jesus. Aware of their intentions, Jesus withdrew from the vicinity. Many followers gathered around Him, and He healed them all, instructing them not to disclose His identity. This teaches us that the Pharisees’ steadfast pride and self-reliance led them to view Jesus as a threat, prompting efforts to diminish His influence. Likewise, we are called to uphold our faith and stand firm against temptation and misdirection.
Furthermore, the prophecies of the Suffering Servant from Isaiah come into focus, illustrating how Jesus the Messiah fulfilled His mission—not through force, but through love and self-sacrifice (Isaiah 42:1-4). Instead of a throne, Jesus chose the cross, wearing a crown of thorns as our Lord and King (John 19:19; Philippians 2:11). His sacrificial death stands as the ultimate testament of God’s love for us, demonstrated through the gift of His only Son for our salvation (John 3:16).
Jesus’ sacrifice was not only for the Jewish people but for all humanity across time. Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would bring justice to the Gentiles. In teaching His disciples to love without limits, Jesus exemplified unconditional love—just as He healed many through faith and humility. May we continue to seek God’s blessings and protection from negativity and harm. Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho
