Genesis 32:23-33 / Matthew 9:32-38
Whenever we think about obedience, we may think that it is a passive form of submission.
It may seem to be that way, since to obey is to surrender to a superior power or higher authority.
But in the spiritual sense, obedience can have an active dimension.
In the 1st reading, Jacob’s name was changed to Israel.
The name Israel means Jacob had been strong against God, and he will prevail against men.
It can also imply that Jacob was strong in his faith but he was also obedient to God.
And it is by his obedience to God that he will be strong against his enemies.
Jesus was obedient to God His Father. By His obedience, He was able to cast out demons.
By His obedience, Jesus preached the Good News with authority.
By His obedience, Jesus cared for those who were harassed and dejected.
May we too be obedient to God and carry out God’s will to be labourers of His harvest.
Then we will be strong in faith, and we will also stand firm against wickedness and evil.