13th Week in Ordinary Time : Wednesday 2nd July 2025

The story of the expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael is tragic and scandalous – because it reveals the unfortunate jealousy of a revered ancestor of Israel, Sarah. However, God hears the cry of the boy and his mother in their desperation, and responds with compassion; thus, promising a future for Ishmael. This passage reminds us that even when others reject us or circumstances appear hopeless, God remains attentive.

Similarly, the casting of the demons from the two demoniacs reveals the uncaring disposition of the townspeople. They are ungrateful to Jesus for expelling “creatures so fierce that no one could pass that way” (Mt 8:28) to the point of imploring Him to leave their neighbourhood. Jesus’ authority over evil spirits demonstrates His divine power to bring healing and restore dignity; thus, showcasing God’s tender care for the marginalised.

These two stories of ingratitude should move us to be more grateful to God even when things don’t go our way, because God may have His wiser way. God sees and saves the ones whom the world overlooks, like the banished Hagar and Ishmael, and the two tormented souls.

We must ask ourselves: how do we respond when God’s ways seem to disrupt us? Are we like the townspeople, resistant to change? Or like Hagar, who learns to see God as the One who sees her? Or like Sarah, who is filled with jealousy?

Lord God, when circumstances seem to be insurmountable, open my eyes to grasp Your mysterious ways of seeing me.