Daily Readings - Thu Feb 01 2018
1 Kings
1When David's time to die drew near, he commanded Solomon his son, saying,2"I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man,3and keep the charge of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn,4that the LORD may establish his word that he spoke concerning me, saying, 'If your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.'10Then David slept with his fathers and was buried in the city of David.11And the time that David reigned over Israel was forty years. He reigned seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.12So Solomon sat on the throne of David his father, and his kingdom was firmly established.
Mark
7And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.8He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff--no bread, no bag, no money in their belts--9but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.10And he said to them, "Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there.11And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them."12So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent.13And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.
Sermon
In today's readings, we witness significant moments of transition and mission. The first reading from 1 Kings recounts David's final instructions to his son Solomon, emphasizing the importance of following God's laws and trusting in His providence. This passage marks the end of David's reign and the beginning of Solomon's, highlighting the transfer of leadership and the enduring promise of God's presence. The Gospel from Mark depicts Jesus sending out the twelve apostles, equipping them with authority and instructing them to travel lightly, relying solely on God's provision. Their mission is fruitful, as they preach, heal, and cast out demons, demonstrating the power of faith and obedience.
Both readings share a common theme of trust in God's plan. David's charge to Solomon and Jesus' commission to the apostles illustrate the importance of faith in divine guidance. Each leader entrusts their successors with a mission, emphasizing reliance on God rather than material possessions or personal strength. This trust is not passive; it requires active engagement with God's will, as seen in the apostles' boldness in their mission.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to reflect on our own trust in God. Like the apostles, we are called to live simply and courageously, sharing the Gospel with others. Whether in our personal or professional lives, we are challenged to trust in God's provision and to be faithful stewards of the missions entrusted to us. Let us embrace this call with humility and confidence, knowing that God's grace will sustain us as we strive to live according to His will.