THE WORD
Mic 2,1-5 / Mt 12,14-21
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, but he warned them not to make him known.
This was to fulfill what has been spoken through Isaiah the prophet: “Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom I delight; I shall place my spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
“He will not contend or cry out, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. And in his name the Gentiles will hope.”
IN OTHER WORDS
On one occasion in the life of Blessed Teresa, some people tried to discourage her from helping the dying persons on the streets of Calcutta. They told her that with so few persons she could possibly reach, what success could she expect when hundreds were dying on the streets of India. What fulfillment could she expect in her apostolate? It is said that her meaningful answer was: “God did not call me to be successful but to be faithful!” Jesus in today’s gospel episode was being blocked by the Pharisees who wanted to kill Him.
Prudently He avoided them and continued to do good to people in need specially the sick. He told them not to make Him known until His mission would be accomplished! Isaiah had to prophesy that the Messiah was to be a Servant chosen by God to give hope to all peoples!
We do not have to become famous and successful in the eyes of men, but let us continue to do good daily. You and I can be God’s instruments in giving Him a face to our many brothers and sisters who are in need of our love and service. Let us be faithful to His command: To love each other as He has loved us.
- Fr. Florante Camacho, SVD | Maribojoc, Bohol
The Word in other words 2016
An annual project of Logos Publications, The WORD in Other Words Bible Diary contains daily scripture readings and reflections written by priest, brothers, and sisters of the three congregations founded by St. Arnold Janssen (the SVD, SSpS, and SSpSAP). It hopes to serve as a daily companion to readers who continually seek the correlation of the Word of God and human experience.
