Daily Readings - Sat Jan 22 2022
2 Samuel
1Now it came to pass after the death of Saul, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Amalekites, and David had abode two days in Ziklag;2It came even to pass on the third day, that, behold, a man came out of the camp from Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth, and did obeisance.3And David said unto him, From whence comest thou? And he said unto him, Out of the camp of Israel am I escaped.4And David said unto him, How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me. And he answered, That the people are fled from the battle, and many of the people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also.11Then David took hold on his clothes, and rent them; and likewise all the men that were with him:12And they mourned, and wept, and fasted until even, for Saul, and for Jonathan his son, and for the people of the LORD, and for the house of Israel; because they were fallen by the sword.19The beauty of Israel is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!23Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.24Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you in scarlet, with other delights, who put on ornaments of gold upon your apparel.25How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, thou wast slain in thine high places.26I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.27How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished!
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter profound emotions and pivotal moments that invite us to reflect on love, duty, and the sacrifices that come with following a higher calling. The first reading from 2 Samuel vividly portrays David’s grief over the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. Despite Saul’s pursuit of him, David mourns deeply, showing respect and sorrow. His lament for Jonathan, in particular, highlights a bond of love that transcends rivalry, teaching us about the depth of human connection and the importance of honoring even complicated relationships.
The Gospel from Mark presents a contrasting yet complementary scene. Jesus’ family, concerned by the crowds and his intense focus on his mission, believes he has gone mad. This moment underscores the tension between personal relationships and divine purpose. Jesus’ commitment to his ministry takes precedence, illustrating the sacrifices required when answering a higher call. Both readings, though different, remind us that love and duty can sometimes pull us in opposite directions, challenging us to find balance.
As we apply these lessons to our lives, we are reminded to love deeply, as David did, even in the face of adversity. We are also called to remain faithful to our calling, as Jesus exemplified, even when it demands difficult choices. Let us strive to honor our relationships while staying true to our commitments, trusting that in doing so, we navigate life’s challenges with grace and purpose.