Scripture Study for

The reading from Wisdom reinterprets the account of the plagues experienced in Egypt. It contrasts the plight of the Israelites and that of the Egyptians, showing how God reversed the very means employed by the Egyptians to afflict the  Israelites. The Egyptians themselves were smitten, while the Israelites escaped unscathed. The focus in this account is on the providence of God in sparing the Israelites. For Israel, there was always a point of pride in these wondrous feats.  However, they were ultimately accomplished for the glory of God’s name, never for the glory of Israel itself. 

The author of Hebrews states that faith is an openness of mind and heart,  not merely a set of propositions. He turns to Abraham’s faith to illustrate this.  Abraham was willing to leave his home for a land he did not know. His faith became apparent again at the conception of Isaac. Finally, Abraham’s faith was manifested in his willingness to respond to God’s command to sacrifice that son of promise. The prospect of Isaac’s death demonstrates his trust that the God who brought life from a man who was “as good as dead” could bring about the life of this son. 

Jesus’ address to his disciples reveals the tender nature of their relationship.  The metaphor of a flock suggests both intimate knowledge and wholehearted commitment on the part of the shepherd. He assures them that, regardless of how demanding his teaching might seem, it has their best interests at heart. He announces that the reign of God is theirs, and he then exhorts them to live lives that demonstrate their citizenship in that realm. He directs them to be watchful,  instructing them to be prepared like servants awaiting the return of the house holder. He links the return of the householder with the coming of the Son of Man.  Since there is no telling when he will arrive, loyal servants must be prepared at all times.