Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
In today’s readings, we have a strong contrast of characters between David and Herod. In the first reading, we hear of the many great deeds of King David: slaying the giant, defeating armies, becoming king, and much more. He was not perfect, for he sinned. But, out of love for God, he repented and turned back to the Lord and was forgiven his sins. What made him great was that he listened to the Lord and trusted in Him as his guide. The first reading states of David, “With his every deed he offered thanks to God Most High, in words of praise. With his whole being, he loved his Maker and daily had his praises sung.” This is what made David great: his love and trust in his Maker. In contrast, we have Herod, who imprisoned John the Baptist because he spoke God’s truth to him and angered Herod’s wife. Herod showed signs of curiosity and intrigue for the words of God spoken to him through John the Baptist, “When he heard him speak, he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him,” but he did not have the love for God to act on these feelings. Instead, his pride and desire for power led him to behead John at the request of his wife, through his daughter.
Where do we fall? Do we listen to the words of God with courage and allow his grace to work in our Hearts? Do we let pride, shame, or embarrassment turn our hearts away from God? Let us be like the Great King David and follow God’s words, and when we fall into sin, let us turn back to God with even greater love and receive his mercy and forgiveness.
Reflection by Br. Placid Dale, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections