Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: RV 15:1-4; PS 98:1, 2-3AB, 7-8, 9; LK 21:12-19
Summary
The Exodus event is the escape from slavery in Egypt to the desert and eventually to the promised land. In the immediate effect of the conflict between the gods of Egypt and the God of the Moses went through these phases.
- Protecting the people from the oppression (Egyptian slavery).
- Mirroring back the oppression upon those who oppress (Ten plagues – progressively more difficult).
- Escape into the desert.
- Definitive freedom from the oppressors by the elimination of the oppressors, even as they had yet still one more opportunity to escape judgment themselves.
Background
Below is an outline of the progressions in the Exodus event taken from the perspective of the Lord trying to save the Pharaoh.
Reflection
Any and all reading translations of the Book of Revelation should go through the filter of the Exodus event. That is, as a series of progressions. For the believer incremental protections from harm and for the oppressors incremental feedback of the evil of their acts. Feedback as like with audio speakers.
The unwanted high-pitched squealing sound that occurs when a microphone picks up the amplified sound from a speaker, creating a loop and amplifying the sound further (AI defines audio feedback). Only the most hardened souls either cannot understand the pain is self-inflicted or the hardened soul does not care as pain is their constant companion.
A most terrible outcome.
For the believer
It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. This testimony is life-giving, life offering witness for the oppressors.
For the Oppressor
Either like this: But they cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears, and rushed upon him together. This is the martyrdom of Stephen.
Or like this: When the centurion who stood facing him saw how he breathed his last he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” This is at the death of Jesus.
Personal Reflection
These horrible scenes in revelations are but a reminder of just how very fragile and delicate we are and at the same time so obstinate of mind and soul.
It is so very important to understand that all these things are ordered for the salvation of souls. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives. And, by your witness, save souls.
Pray for the salvation of souls.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112724.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry