Tuesday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Isaiah 7:1-9, Psalm 48:2-8, Matthew 11:20-24
“Then he began to reproach the cities in which most of his deeds of power had been done because they did not repent.” (Matthew 11:20)
Jesus is obviously disappointed with the cities in which many of His miracles had taken place. They were so happy to receive miracles but were not willing to give back to Jesus by giving up their sinful ways. They had faith strong enough for signs and wonders but lacked faith powerful enough to ensure their repentance from sin.
Does this reflect the condition of your Christian life? Hear what Jesus says: “It shall be more tolerable on the day of judgement for the land of Sodom than for you.” (Matthew 11:24). To whom much is given, much is expected.
Sodom and Gomorrah were not lucky to have Jesus Christ preach to them yet they perished. Today, not only do we know Jesus, we hear his word on a daily basis. Just as God expected more from the towns of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum, He expects much more from us.
Note that these towns did not have the privilege of social media, there was no printing press back then; access to the Bible was a luxury not many could afford. What is my excuse for not bearing fruits? After seeing so many miracles, what stops me from living out my Christian faith practically?
In today’s first reading, we see a great miracle unfold. Ahaz was king of Judah at this time and he heard that the kings of Syria had formed an alliance with the king of Israel and they were coming to wage war against Jerusalem. Ahaz was terribly shaken with fear because he had no military might to rely on. He forgot that God was greater than all the armies of the world combined. Fear is always a sign of lack of trust in God.
Ahaz did not even pray to God, yet God sent Isaiah the prophet to him to assure him that there was no need to be afraid. Isaiah’s words to Ahaz also apply to us today: “If you will not believe, you shall not be established.” Dear friends, God is not asleep. He already knows what to do because, with Him, all things are possible. All we have to do is to repent and live according to his commands.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, may the kind of life I live reflect my faith in you. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you.