We are drawn out to enter into the divine power

Ex. 2:1-15, Mt. 11:20-24. Today's first reading tells us of the birth and adoption of Moses by the daughter of Pharaoh. The Egyptian name “Moses” means “one who is born” of divine power. The Hebrew name for the Egyptian Moses is “Mosheh” and the nearest Hebrew word is "mashah" meaning “draw out.” Moses is then raised in the royal palace and enjoys life as member of the royal family. As descendants of Jacob, they were subjected to more restriction and Pharaoh declared that all the male newborn infants of the Israelites were to be killed to prevent the continued growth and spread of the Israelites in the land of Egypt. The Lord sent Moses to His people and saved him from the waters of the River Nile so that he might be the one to shepherd Israel out of the land of their misery and enslavement, into the land of prosperity and true joy as promised by the Lord. God has done this so that He can bring the people into the fulfilment of the long awaited promise He made, to their ancestors; Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

To extend His compassion to everyone bonded by His promise, Jesus brought the message of salvation to the people of the region of Galilee, the cities of Capernaum, Chorazin and Bethsaida. Yet, they would not welcome Him and refused to listen to Him. In today's Gospel, Jesus proclaimed woe on the people of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum because they were the immediate beneficiaries of all His works. Yet they become obstinate and headed for destruction. The Lord speak out with such anger against those cities because they have all seen so many of God’s miracles and wonders, heard His truth and been shown His love and compassion and yet, still refused to believe and obey Him. With prophetic anger, He reproached their hardness of heart. His miracles were meant to lead to conversion, to a change of outlook and of lifestyle, a turning away from selfishness and showing new concern for the poor and the needy. His healings showed His love for suffering humanity. They were not intended to draw Him into the limelight but to show God’s desire for us to form a wholesome, healthy family.

May the Lord help us to always respond to God's gracious action in our lives by being witnesses to the divine acts! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!