Reflection for July 19 Saturday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 12:14-21

Gospel: 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.

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Reflection:

What do we do when there is a threat to our safety? 

When Jesus realized that the Pharisees were planning to kill Him, He quietly withdrew from the place to avoid them. Why did Jesus withdraw? Because it was not yet time for Him to face His accusers, and it was never in the nature of Jesus to be violent. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, a wellspring of love and compassion. Never was He a hothead or a troublemaker. 

Sometimes, when we avoid trouble, people may think we are cowards. But the truth is, it is not cowardice to walk away from conflict. It takes strength and wisdom to choose peace over unnecessary confrontation. A person who avoids trouble is not weak but prudent, filled with wisdom, discernment, and godly judgment. 

What would we truly gain if we confront a troublesome person or meet trouble with trouble? Nothing, except another burden and deeper wounds in our hearts. There are many ways to address conflict and trials, and charging head-on in anger is rarely the path God calls us to take. 

When Jesus avoided those who were running after Him, He was teaching us that prudence is the better part of valor. What does this mean for us? It means it is better to be careful and to guard the peace God has given us than to take reckless risks driven by pride or anger. Battles in life are not always won by brute force. Many victories are secured through wisdom-filled decisions, prayerful discernment, and Spirit-led strategies. 

What should we do when faced with a troublesome person or a difficult situation? We turn to Jesus, our example, and ask for the grace to respond with humility, peace, and prudence. We pray for the Spirit to guide us so that in all things, we may act with love and trust in God’s perfect timing. 

May we learn to step back when needed, to hold our peace, and to walk away from conflict when it is not yet God’s time for us to face it. In doing so, we honor God, protect our hearts, and keep the peace that surpasses all understanding. – Marino J. Dasmarinas