Greetings on this the Saturday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Exodus 12:37-42; Psalm 136:1 and 23-24, 10-12, 13-15; Matthew 12:14-21
Summary
The contention between the powerful and Jesus spans the entirety of the gospel. At every turn, Jesus is confronted by judgment on the timing of his actions (Sabbath Rest/Temple Grain), the power by which he acts (Divine or Evil) and the authority by which he speaks (Divine or Human).
Jesus’ primary response is to answer gently. He sees those who challenge him not as adversaries but as his children being rebellious. A bruised reed is someone who is weak, fragile, or struggling. A smoldering wick is someone with weak faith. Despite their earthly social, economic and political power, these Paraisees are in need of their Lord.
In fact he himself will not die until he has accomplished all that can be done to save us. He will not grow dim or be bruised until he establishes justice on the earth; the coastlands will wait for his teaching (ISA 42:4).
The Complaints against Jesus in Matthew Chapter 12
- Picking Grain on the Sabbath.
- The Man with a Withered Hand.
- Jesus and Beelzebul.
- The Demand for a Sign.
But the Pharisees went out and took counsel against him to put him to death. When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many [people] followed him, and he cured them all (MT 12:14-15).
- Jesus cures a man who had a withered hand during the Sabbath day.
- The Pharisees went out and took counsel against him to put him to death.
- When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many [people] followed him, and he cured them all.
- He will not cry out, nor shout, nor make his voice heard in the street. A bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench. He will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow dim or be bruised until he establishes justice on the earth; the coastlands will wait for his teaching (ISA 42:2-4).
Reflection
Jesus’ response to evil is to do good. The Pharisees are also bruised reeds. The Pharisees are also dimly lit wicks. The best thing he could do in that moment is withdraw. Withdraw such that they may begin to change.
That their hearts may ring out: Do not drive me from before your face, nor take from me your holy spirit (PS 51:13).
Personal Reflection
May we now change how we see people. Bruised and smoldering, in need of the Lord. Do not contend. [In this way] I will teach the wicked your ways, that sinners may return to you. (PS 51:15).
Sacred Readings Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071925.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry