DAILY HOMILIES #first commandment

Success is sweet but comes with challenges. Before Goliath, Saul regarded David as some harmless musician. Saul loved David. However, the moment Saul heard the women singing, Saul hated David. We all have people like Saul in our lives; they become a threat to us the moment we start shining. If something good comes your way, they either block it or try to eliminate you. Am I genuinely happy for my friends when good things come to them? Do I accuse them of pride or develop hatred against them because they have become more prosperous, more innovative or successful?

Our first reading today comes from the Book of Prophet Hosea. God instructed Hosea to marry a harlot to demonstrate the idolatrous practices of the Israelite nation. Just as a harlot leaves her husband for other men, we cheat on God when we serve other gods (such as money, power, pleasure, etc.)