Steadfast and for All

The text in the Roman Catholic Lectionary today from the Book of Exodus tells of the beginning of the journey to freedom as the agricultural feast of Passover becomes the celebration of the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The number of people cited is likely an exaggeration, as noted by Friar Jude Winkler. A range of 5 to 15 thousand people is thought more likely. The exultation of the psalmist captures the thanksgiving of Israel to God for this mighty action. Research shows that there were Gentiles who escaped with the Jews from Egypt. The Steadfast Love experienced in the events of Passover is for all people. The text from the Gospel of Matthew, written by a Jew for a Jewish Christian audience, tells of Jesus as the Suffering Servant of the Prophet Isaiah. This servant is to bring justice and hope to the Gentiles through the actions lived by Jesus in surrender, obedience and love. The journey from Rameses to Succoth in Exodus continues toward the freedom of all people through living daily in relationship with God who is with us.