DAVID IS CROWNED KING OF ISRAEL

1^st READING - 2 Samuel 5:1-7, 10

P S A L M - Psalm 89:20, 21-22, 25-26

R: My faithfulness and my mercy shall be with him.

GOSPEL - Mark 3:22-30

SABBATH

David receives the crown of the nation of Judah and, seven years later, Israel as well. He unites the Jewish people once again. As their king, he expands the borders of the nation and creates a great military power feared in the region, triumphant against all enemies. It is under him that Israel reaches the zenith of its power, and it is to the Kingdom of David that future generations will look to for inspiration in times of hardship. It is easy to live in the past and exult in the glories of days gone by, but this will not secure one’s future. In the same way we can dwell on the failures and defeats of the past, but this, too, will not secure the future. We must live in the present — both for the present and the future. If we do this, our legacy will be secure. The past glory of a nation will not ensure anything for the future. However, foundations of truth and righteousness laid today will make possible a future greatness. Too often we forget that success is built on faithfulness to the fundamentals and, when it comes to our faith, this can be summed up in one idea: obedience to the will of God. Jesus constantly affirms that this is the basis of His ministry – doing what the Father tells Him to do, obeying His will. Let us all seek to imitate Jesus and follow His example of submission and obedience. In this way we will contribute to the building of His Kingdom and thereby live fulfilled and holy lives. David was not perfect — he failed many times, but he always accepted the forgiveness God offered him and got back to work! Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL   REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Do you lose heart when you sin or when things do not go as you expect them? Do you give in to temptation and disappointment too easily?   Jesus, help me to focus my life on imitating Your obedience and so come to know the only path that will bring me fulfillment in my life.