Daily Readings - Tue Jan 28 2020
2 Samuel
12And it was reported to king David that the Lord had blessed Obededom, and all that was his, because of the ark of God. Therefore, David went and brought the ark of God, from the house of Obededom, into the city of David with joy. And there were with David seven choirs, and calves for victims13And when those who were carrying the ark of the Lord had traveled six steps, he immolated an ox and a ram14And David danced with all his ability before the Lord. And David was girded with the linen ephod15And David, and all the house of Israel, were leading the ark of the testament of the Lord, with jubilation and the sound of the trumpet17And they led in the ark of the Lord. And they set it in its place in the middle of the tabernacle, which David had pitched for it. And David offered holocausts and peace offerings in the sight of the Lord18And when he had completed offering holocausts and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts19And he distributed to the entire multitude of Israel, as much to men as to women, to each one: one loaf of bread, and one piece of roasted beef, and fine wheat flour fried with oil. And all the people went away, each one to his own house
Mark
31And his mother and brothers arrived. And standing outside, they sent to him, calling him32And the crowd was sitting around him. And they said to him, "Behold, your mother and your brothers are outside, seeking you.33And responding to them, he said, "Who is my mother and my brothers?34And looking around at those who were sitting all around him, he said: "Behold, my mother and my brothers35For whoever has done the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister and mother.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound expressions of faith and devotion. The first reading from 2 Samuel recounts the joyful procession of King David as he brings the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem. The Ark, a symbol of God’s presence among His people, is treated with reverence and celebration. David’s dance before the Lord, though unconventional, reflects his deep faith and joy in worship. His generosity in offering sacrifices and distributing food to all emphasizes his gratitude and recognition of God’s blessings.
In the Gospel, Jesus expands our understanding of family and belonging. When his biological relatives arrive, Jesus declares that his true family consists of those who do the will of God. This teaching challenges us to prioritize our spiritual relationships and to recognize that our ultimate allegiance is to God. Jesus’ words remind us that faith transcends blood ties, calling us to live according to God’s plan and purpose.
Both readings invite us to reflect on our commitment to God and how we express that commitment in our lives. Like David, we are called to worship with joy and generosity, trusting in God’s presence and provision. Like Jesus, we are reminded that our true identity and belonging are rooted in doing God’s will. Let us strive to live with faith, trust, and a willingness to follow God’s plan, knowing that we are part of a larger spiritual family united in His love.