Today’s Readings: Matthew 4:12-17, Isaiah 9:1-3, Matthew 5:14-16 (English Standard Version)
Matthew 4:12-17
12 Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee.13 And leaving Nazareth he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali,14 so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:15 The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles–16 the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned.
17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Isaiah 9:1-3
1 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.
2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.3 You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil.
Matthew 5:14-16
14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Takeaways:
- I love watching prophecy unfold and be completely fulfilled in the New Testament. It proves that God keeps His promises!
- Do you remember the first time you recognized true light from the darkness? Before Jesus, Isaiah says that we dwelt in a land of deep darkness.
- We are called to let our light shine so that other people will give glory to God…not to us.