Thursday of the 16th week in ordinary time year A
Ex. 19: 1-2.9-11.16-20b Mat. 13:10-17
Theme: God is ever faithful
Since the journey of the Israelites from Egypt, the people have shown a lot of doubts in their journey to the promised land. Whenever they are faced with any form of challenge or difficulty, they begin to grumble and complain against Moses and Aaron. They are quick to forget what God have done for them already and allow fear to take the better part of them. Interestingly, in each of those moments, God has always come through for them, by giving them victory over the situation that brought about their fears.
This may be one of the reasons why God told Moses today in the 1st reading to prepare the people, so that when he comes in a thick cloud to speak with Moses, they will hear him. So that the people will believe in Moses forever, no matter the situation they find themselves in, going forward, on their journey to the promise land. This goes to show that God love and care for his people. He knows that they will still encounter more challenges and difficulties on their way to the promised land, but they should stop blaming Moses and believe in his guidance for the people, knowing fully well that God is making the journey with them. Suffice it to say that God simply wanted to strengthen the faith of the people and remove their unnecessary fear, as they make their journey.
Another thing that is worthy of note in todays 1st reading from the Book of Exodus, is the fact that God asked Moses to prepare the people, before the third day that he will be coming to see them. Moses was asked to consecrate the people for two days and they should wash their garments in preparation for the coming of God. I believe we have something to learn from what God told Moses, there is need for us to always make proper preparation whenever we intend to have an encounter with the Lord.
A good example of such a situation is during the reception of the holy Eucharist, we must be ready and prepared to receive him. The church has made it easier for us by presenting to us the sacrament of reconciliation. Let us avail of ourselves this great sacrament given to us by the church, that helps us go to God in humility. We are all encouraged today to always be prepared before having that moment of encounter with the Lord. May the Lord bless his words in our hearts in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.