20th July 2019 Saturday 15th Week of Ordinary Time - St. Apollinarius

Reflection
Exodus 12:37-42, Matthew 12:14-21

“Courage and simplicity”
Jesus is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. He is the chosen servant, the Beloved. He brings God’s tender love to people. He does not reject the weak or treat them with contempt. He gives hope to those who are hopeless. He is always ready to bring people to have a true relationship with God. Ironically, the Pharisees were too blind to perceive Jesus as God’s servant, God’s Beloved. The simple people perceived Jesus as a Man of God, and they followed Him and went to Him with their needs.

19th July 2019 Friday 15th Week of Ordinary Time

Reflection
Exodus 11:10-12,14, Matthew 12:1-8

“Mercy, not sacrifice”
Jesus was not affected by their criticism. Instead, He reminded them that King David and his followers ate the loaves meant only for priests because they were hungry. For Jesus, true obedience of the Law should be motivated by the spirit of mercy, not simply following Sabbath regulations.