Jesus Is the Perfect Israel

Introit: Ps. 8:1, 4-6; antiphon: Ps. 8:2
Old Testament: Gen. 46:1-7
Epistle: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Gospel: Matt. 2:13-23

Israel and all his family went and dwelt in Egypt (Gen. 46:1-7). God made a great nation of him there, but that nation would prove unfaithful to the Lord. Therefore, the New Israel came. In fleeing the murderous Herod, our young Lord goes to Egypt (Matt. 2:13-23), that the prophecy might be fulfilled, "Out of Egypt I called my Son" (Hos. 11:1). Jesus brings to perfection what old Israel could not. He is the faithful Israel, the embodiment of the people of God. He offers His perfect and holy life in place of our own. He submits Himself to persecution and suffering in order to save us. Therefore, we should not think it strange when we who are in Christ experience trials because of the faith (1 Pet. 4:12-19). Rather, we rejoice to share in Christ's sufferings, knowing that we will also share in His glory.