15th Week in Ordinary Time
“Seeing the blood, I will pass over you.” (Exodus 12:13)
Today’s first reading recounts one of the most monumental nights in the entire history of Israel. God was preparing to deliver the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt, and he instructed Moses to have each family sacrifice a lamb, and put its blood on the doorposts of their homes. He promised that, seeing the blood, the angel of death would “pass over” the Hebrew homes rescuing them from the destruction of all the firstborn in the land.
When you enter a Jewish home, you may notice a Mezuzah hung on the doorpost. Inside a protective cover is a piece of parchment containing the great Jewish prayer that begins with: “Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.” When entering or exiting their homes, Jewish people often touch this symbol to help them recall the great wonders God did in delivering them out of Egypt and giving them his Law. They certainly also recall the blood of the lamb that was placed on the doorposts on the night of their deliverance.
How about you? Is there a place near the entryway to your home where you can place a reminder of the victory that Jesus won for you on his cross? It could be a crucifix or an icon of Jesus or a favorite Scripture verse in a frame. It could be something altogether different or unexpected, too!
Whatever you choose, let it serve as a reminder to you each day that when your Father in heaven saw the shed blood of Christ, he “passed over” you with his love and mercy. Let this symbol, like the Mezuzah in a Jewish home, or like the blood of the Passover lamb, remind you that you have been set free from slavery—to sin! Let it remind you that God delights in you and has great mercy for you. Perhaps you can even come up with a short proclamation of thanks that you can say every time you cross the threshold of your home.
“Father, thank you for sending your Son as the Lamb of God to take away our sins. Each time I see a symbol of Christ’s great act of love, may I be reminded of the great salvation that Jesus has won for me. I know that I have truly passed over from death to life.”
Psalm 116:12-13, 15-18; Matthew 12:1-8
Daily Marriage Tip for July 19, 2013:
Marriage is more complicated the second time around. If you’re a widow(er) or have received an annulment and are thinking about remarriage, take advantage of programs for couples in a second marriage.