Daily Bread — Flight to Safety

Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:16–18
(EFKS Tusi Faitau Aso)

“Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning.”
(Matthew 2:17–18, KJV)

This week’s EFKS theme:
Emmanuel — God With Us

A Thought for Today

Today’s reading is heavy and sorrowful. It reminds us that fear and violence were present even at the beginning of Jesus’ life.

This passage does not rush past pain — it acknowledges it.

What This Means for Us Today

Matthew reminds us that while God was at work bringing salvation into the world, suffering was still real. Innocent lives were affected, and grief was deep.

Faith does not deny sorrow. Scripture gives space for lament and tears.

Yet even here, Emmanuel remains true. God was not absent in this moment of darkness. He was still at work, even when it was hard to see.

Carry This With You

If today’s reading feels heavy, know this:
God sees suffering, hears cries, and holds every broken heart close.

You are not unseen in your pain.

A Simple Prayer

God, be near to those who grieve and those who feel afraid.
Bring comfort where there is sorrow and light where there is darkness.
Amen.

Today’s Invitation

Take a quiet moment today to pray for those who are hurting.
Trust that God’s compassion is deeper than our understanding.

— Alofa Tunoa