Saturday 17 July

Exodus 12:37-42, Psalm 136,
Matthew 12:14-21

Expectations

Matthew wrote for Jews who were expecting a triumphant warrior king Messiah. Here they are reminded that Isaiah prophesied a servant who neither fights nor shouts, but helps and heals, bringing hope and salvation for all the world. Jesus brings life and freedom, yet was hated for challenging fixed ways and many could not recognise him, because he was not how they expected him to be. Expectations can enliven hope, but can also blind us to reality. Who is Jesus for you?