First Reading - Genesis 49:29-33,50:15-26
Gospel - Matthew 10:24-33
In the first reading, we witness the closing scenes of the Book of Genesis. Jacob has died, and his sons, especially Joseph’s brothers, are filled with fear and guilt. They worry that Joseph will now take revenge on them for having sold him into slavery years before. But Joseph surprises them with a moving response: “Do not be afraid. Am I in the place of God? Even though you intended harm to me, God intended it for good.” These words are a testament to Joseph’s deep trust in God’s plan. He looks beyond human wrongdoing and recognizes God’s hand working through his suffering for a greater purpose.
In the Gospel, Jesus prepares His disciples for the opposition they will face. “A disciple is not above the teacher,” He says. If He Himself was maligned and rejected, His followers will face the same. But Jesus urges them, and us, not to be afraid. Three times in this passage He says, “Do not fear.” Why? Because nothing escapes God’s knowledge. Even the hairs of our head are counted. We are worth more than many sparrows. This is not just poetic language — it is a declaration of our value in the eyes of God. If we live and speak for Him, He will never abandon us.
Dear friends, we often struggle with fear — fear of suffering, fear of rejection, fear of the future. But today’s readings assure us that God’s providence is greater than our fear. What others intend for harm, God can turn to good. What the world does to silence truth, God can use to spread light.
Let us then live with confidence and trust. Like Joseph, let us learn to forgive and see God's purpose in our trials. Like the disciples, let us speak the truth of the Gospel with courage, knowing that we are never alone.
May the words of Jesus echo in our hearts: “Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”
.jpeg)
0 Comments