DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 13TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

Celebration: Ferial

Liturgical Colour: Green

Table of the Word 

First Reading: Genesis 21:5, 8–20a

Gospel: Matthew 8:28–34

Theme: The saving God

Reflection 

God’s mercy, justice, and liberating power form the basis of today's reflection.  In the two readings: Genesis 21:5, 8–20a and Matthew 8:28–34, we encounter two dramatic stories: the abandonment of Hagar and Ishmael in the wilderness, and the healing of two demon-possessed men. Here God revealed Himself as the One who hears the cry of the distressed and delivers the oppressed. These readings challenge us to deepen our trust in God’s providence, even when life seems unjust or chaotic.

Taking cognizance of the first reading, the author narrates the painful episode of Hagar and Ishmael's expulsion from Abraham's household at the insistence of Sarah. Though Abraham is troubled, God assures him to follow Sarah’s request, promising that Ishmael too shall become a great nation (cf. Gen 21:13). This moment of despair in the wilderness experienced by Hagar and her baby evokes the image of countless forgotten people in history; where life tasted sour with no hope. But God who is all merciful and compassionate heard the boy’s cry and responded with provision, promise, and peace.

In a nut shell, this scene reveals God’s universal care not only for the chosen people (through Isaac), but also for the marginalized and outsiders (through Ishmael) as accounted for in the first reading. 

However, the Gospel pericope gives us an account of our Lord's healing of the two men possessed by demons in the region of the Gadarenes. These men are described as so violent that no one could pass by their way. The demons immediately recognized Jesus: “What have you to do with us, Son of God?”

At this point, Jesus commanded the demon out, a demonstration of His Supreme authority over the spiritual realm and His mission to bring healing beyond the boundaries of Israel. Yet, it also raises a sobering truth: People sometimes fear the change Jesus brings more than the evil they endure.

Finally, the summary of today's liturgy of the Word brings about three simple truth about God: viz.

God sees. God hears. God saves. That is to say: He sees us in our situation, listens to our cries and always ready to save us. 

+ Peace be with you. 

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