Homily: Second Thursday of Ordinary Time

Second Thursday of Ordinary Time (1Sam 18:6-9; 19: 1-7)

Jealousy and Envy are awful emotions to try to manage. The interactions of Saul and David show how these emotions can turn into hatred and rage.

We get the impression that David was not intent on deposing Saul. He tried to reassure him of that fact. This seems curious since the prophet Samuel had anointed him king. He had to know that he would succeed Saul. We have a lot of intrigue here.

We might remember the story of King Herod at the time of Jesus’ birth. He heard there was a new king in town so he went into a rage and killed innocent children so that he might remain in power.

Saul goes from virtuous king to despot as we read through the chapters of the Book of Samuel. We might be reminded of the axiom, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” It is hard to give up a position of privilege once one has it. We see this played out for us every day as elderly people in Washington refuse to step down when it might be best for them to do so.

If Saul believed that he was a servant of the people, he might have had a different attitude. Maybe he would have been able to cheer David’s victories and he might have been able to mentor David before he would step in as king.

The most virtuous person we meet in the stories we read in this part of the Bible is Saul’s son Jonathon. He has every right to be envious of David since David is taking the thrown that rightfully belongs to him. Jonathon wants only what is best for the nation of Israel. He loves his father. He loves David. He is loyal to a fault.

Yes, Jonathon is a person who is admirable. He can be cheerful about others success of others and he is able to let go of his own ego.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Am I able to rejoice in the successes of others? Am I able to be a cheer leader?

2.   Have I ever had to hand over a position of responsibility? What did that feel like?

 Dear Parishioners,

             Every Wednesday we have adoration in the St. Francis Chaple from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. We expose the Blessed Sacrament, and we have Benediction at the end of the day. Many people find great consolation in praying in front of the Eucharist.

            We have time slots that people can sign up for. We never leave the Eucharist unattended. This can be a set time of prayer every week. In our hectic lives we sometimes need to make an appointment with the Lord. We would love to have you take part. The St. Francis Chapel is on the south side of the Lee Center on the main floor. The door to enter is plainly marked. Come and spend some quality time.

            May Our Lady Pray of Peace pray for us,

            Fr. Mark