Exodus 12:37-42 / Matthew 12:14-21
Under normal circumstances, it is not that easy for the inmates in a prison to escape or even to walk out freely without facing any violent opposition.
Especially if they are unarmed and not having any external help or intervention, escaping from prison or walking out freely is almost out of the question.
But in the 1st reading we heard of the Israelites leaving, or escaping, from Egypt almost unobstructed. They had been in Egypt for 430 years and their last known status in Egypt was that they were slaves who were made to do all the hard work.
Furthermore Egypt at that time was a political power to be reckoned with and the Israelites were certainly no match against their military power and might, no matter how great their numbers may be.
But still, the Israelites were able to escape from Egypt, although they had to hurry and they had no time for dallying.
Certainly it was not some tactical plan of man but the result of the mighty hand of God.
When God wants to do something, no power or might will be able to stop or hold back the hand of God.
So if God freed His people from bondage and slavery by mighty works and wonderful signs, He will also do mighty works and wonderful signs for us in time of oppression or distress or in a time of need.
But it will happen in God's time. It took 430 years before the Israelites could go back to their homeland.
We just need to believe in God's time and in His great love for us for His love is without end.