Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 19, 2025

Date: Saturday of the 15^th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 12:14-21

The Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many people followed him, and he cured them all, but he warned them not to make him known. This was to fulfill what had been spoken through Isaiah the prophet:

    Behold, my servant whom I have chosen,        

my beloved in whom I delight;    

I shall place my Spirit upon him,        

and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.    

He will not contend or cry out,        

nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets.    

A bruised reed he will not break,        

a smoldering wick he will not quench,    

until he brings justice to victory.        

And in his name the Gentiles will hope.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today recounts Jesus’ withdrawal when He became aware of the Pharisees’ plotting against Him. He continued His mission and ministry, but He warned the followers to not make him known and stir up further contention. The text draws from the Servant Song in Isaiah 42, pointing to Jesus’ meekness as servant and to expanding the promise of salvation to the Gentiles.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How I wish I had the commitment to my Heavenly Father that Christ exhibits, capable of continuing on even in the face of rejection and persecution.

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You created each of us and You call us to be your daughters and sons. Send your Spirit to stir within us, to rouse within us the commitment to You and to your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, that we need in order to live our lives in You, with You and for You. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.