The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, January 19, 2006
Thursday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Samuel 18:6-8; 19:1-7
Psalm 56:2-3, 9-14
Mark 3:7-12

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

What a contrast between our first reading for today and the gospel message! In the first reading we see Saul jealous of David because he was receiving more credit and popularity for his greater success in the battles of war, even to the point of considering killing David. The gospel, by contrast, shows how Christ was trying to cope with His own popularity and still carry out His Father's mission. Christ was trying to give credit to His Father, not 'wallow' in His own successes.

Most of us appreciate a little praise now and then when we know we have done a good job at something. There is nothing wrong with that. What we might look at is what do we do with that praise. Do we give credit where it is due, namely to God for allowing us and helping us accomplish something? Or do we take that credit totally unto ourselves as though we could accomplish anything alone? Christ has served as a model in this gospel. It is worth pondering.

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)

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