MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 19 JULY
July 19, 2025
FEAST OF SAINT APOLLINARIS – 20th JULY
July 20, 2025
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
19 JULY, 2025
Matthew 12:14‑21
The Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus to put him to death.
But Jesus, aware of this, withdrew. Many people followed him, and he cured them all, warning them not to make him known.
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
“Behold, my servant whom I have chosen… I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
He will not quarrel or cry out, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets.
A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice through victory.
And in his name the Gentiles will hope.”
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this passage, we witness the growing opposition to Jesus as the Pharisees begin plotting His destruction, revealing the hardness of their hearts in contrast to Christ’s compassion. Yet Jesus withdraws, not out of fear, but in fulfillment of prophecy and to show that His mission is not one of confrontation, but of gentle redemption. Matthew points us to Isaiah’s prophecy, emphasizing Jesus as the chosen servant of God, filled with the Spirit, bringing justice not with violence or clamor, but with mercy and quiet strength.
The beauty of this reflection lies in Jesus’ character—He does not break the bruised reed or snuff out the smoldering wick. This speaks deeply to those who are fragile, weary, or faltering. His way is tender and restorative, upholding justice without crushing the weak. In a world often marked by noise and harshness, Jesus invites us to embody His gentleness and patience, offering hope to the broken.
May we learn from our Lord to pursue justice with love, and to treat the vulnerable with dignity and care. As we follow the Servant King, may our lives reflect His compassion and mercy, pointing others to the hope found in His name.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, You sent Your Son, Jesus, not to shout or fight, but to gently bring healing, justice, and hope.
As we begin this day, fill our hearts with the same spirit— gentle in word, strong in love, and faithful in mercy.
Gracious Lord Jesus, thank You for being the gentle and faithful Servant who brings justice with mercy and hope to the weary. Teach us to walk in Your compassion, to lift the brokenhearted, and to reflect Your quiet strength in our lives. May we never lose heart, but always trust in the hope that is found in Your Name. Amen
