Readings: 1 Sam. 9:1-4,17-19,10:1, Ps. 21:2-7, Mark 2:13-17
“Then Samuel took a vial of oil and poured it on his head, and kissed him and said, ‘Has not the Lord anointed you to be prince over his people Israel?’” (1 Samuel 10:1)
Do you believe in the concept of coincidence (or luck)? In today’s first reading, Saul met Samuel while searching for his father’s missing livestock. Saul had no idea that his life was going to change forever. What did Saul do to deserve the anointing he received? Nothing. He didn’t even know who Samuel was. He probably was not aware that God was looking for a king for Israel. He was just at the right place at the right time.
Again, in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus met Levi (also known as Matthew). Levi probably heard about Jesus but went to work as usual that day. There were many streets in Israel, but Jesus passed by the tax office, and among all the other tax collectors on duty, Jesus picked Levi. What did Levi do to deserve this? Nothing. Many people felt even scandalised seeing Jesus eat with Levi and his friends.
One word that perfectly describes unmerited favour is GRACE. It is God answering the prayers we never said, connecting us with people we never dreamt of, taking us to heights we never knew, and filling us with riches we never worked for. Your life can change in just one day.
A single post you made on social media may catapult you to stardom. In less than twenty-four hours, the whole world is talking about you. These are moments of grace. Those who fail to make the most of such moments live in regret. As the saying goes, “Lightning does not strike the same spot twice.” This brings us to our lessons today:
1. Be Prepared for Unmerited Favour: Develop a positive mindset. Expect the best to happen. When leaving your house, believe that today will be your lucky day.
2. Be Nice to Everyone You Meet: Life is hard; everyone is dealing with something. This is why you should smile and show kindness to strangers. Imagine if Saul were rude to Samuel (perhaps due to the frustration of looking for the donkeys). You never can tell who God has sent to bless you.
3. Believe in the Power of Sacramentals: Saul became king the moment Samuel anointed him. Not everything can be explained by science. Say your prayers. Wear a scapular or a rosary wherever you go. These blessed items are powerful.
4. Avoid Negativity: Avoid condemning others based on hearsay (mere speculations). Jesus was happy to eat with tax collectors, not because He approved their sins, but because He knew this would bring them to the light. Do not label anyone as good-for-nothing.
5. Be a Blessing to Someone: Decide to do something extraordinary for one person today. As God told Samuel to bless Saul, and as Jesus’ gaze fell on Levi, listen to that voice within you. Pick someone and bless them for no reason, then tell them to ‘pay it forward.’
Today, we remember St. Anthony the Abbot, also known as Anthony the Great. He was a man of deep faith who lived in the Egyptian desert. Born into wealth, he inherited a substantial estate early in life. However, inspired by Jesus’ call to sell all possessions and help the poor, Anthony chose to give away his wealth and dedicate himself entirely to God. Despite being illiterate and leading a simple life, his profound wisdom attracted many seeking spiritual advice and healing.
Anthony emphasised the true essence of Christianity and the importance of living an ascetic life. Committed to a life of prayer, fasting, and manual labour, Anthony was a pioneer in monasticism, though his approach differed from modern religious practices. His followers lived apart but gathered for worship and to hear his teachings. Anthony’s unwavering dedication to asceticism was remarkable. He continually strengthened his faith until his death at 105, leaving a legacy of profound commitment to God.
Let us pray: O God, who brought the Abbot Saint Anthony to serve you by a wondrous way of life in the desert, grant, through his intercession, that, denying ourselves, we may always love you above all things. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Antony, Abbot. Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: 1 Sam. 9:1-4,17-19,10:1, Ps. 21:2-7, Mark 2:13-17)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu