First Reading - Exodus 11:10-12:14
Gospel - Matthew 12:1-8
In the first reading from Exodus, we witness God preparing to liberate His people from slavery. The institution of the Passover is introduced as a memorial of their deliverance. Yet, the key message lies not in the ritual itself, but in the obedience and trust the people are called to have in God’s word. The blood on the doorposts is a sign of faith—a faith that allows God’s mercy to pass over them and preserve their lives. The ritual becomes meaningful because it is rooted in obedience and deep trust in God’s saving plan.
The Gospel passage from Matthew presents Jesus defending His disciples who pluck grain on the Sabbath. The Pharisees, obsessed with the letter of the law, fail to understand the heart of the law. Jesus reminds them of God's words through the prophet Hosea: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” The Sabbath was meant to be a gift, not a burden. The Pharisees’ focus on strict observance blinded them to the mercy and compassion at the heart of God's covenant.
Both readings, therefore, converge on a common truth: ritual and observance have value only when they serve the deeper purpose of aligning our hearts with God’s mercy and our lives with His will. Religion without compassion becomes empty; obedience without love becomes slavery.
Dear friends, today’s message is a reminder that God seeks worshippers in spirit and truth. Our participation in the sacraments, our prayers, and our religious devotions should lead us to live mercifully, forgive generously, and act justly. Like the Israelites, we are called to trust in God's saving power. Like the disciples, we are called to walk with Jesus, not in fear of breaking rules, but in freedom that comes from living in His mercy.
May our lives reflect true worship—obedient hearts, merciful actions, and trust in God's promises. Let us not settle for outward rituals alone but strive to be people of sincere faith and compassion.
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