Nothing like this has ever been seen Israel

Gen. 32:23-33, Mt. 9:32-37. In the Scriptures, the changing of names are always very symbolic and important moments in someone's life. A change of name indicates a profound change in direction of life, such as when God made a Covenant with Abram, changing his name to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah and of the Apostle, Simon to Cephas or Peter. Therefore, in today's first reading, God called Jacob to be courageous and put his trust in Him even as he was struck with great fear of expecting the vengeance of his brother. In the end, Jacob finds out that he has been wrestling with God. For this reason he named the place “Peniel,” in Hebrew, “face of God.” God called Jacob to a new existence and renewed the Covenant He made with his forefathers, a significant milestone that would become the name of an entire nation, of Israel.

Today, we are called to a new existence and a new life, to walk in the footsteps of Christ to show forth God’s love in the world. Just as God has reassured Jacob of His faithfulness and love and as Jesus showed His love to the people in today's Gospel, we are challenged to be bearers and witnesses of this same love to our fellowmen. While the crowd who witnessed the miracles of Jesus said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel", the Pharisees said, “It is through the prince of devils that he casts out devils.” The crowd saw God at work in Jesus; the Pharisees saw Satan at work. Today, we are invited to sense the presence of God around us.

May the Lord be our guide and give us the strength and courage to live our lives more faithful to God! Amen!! Good morning and have a glorious day!!!