Readings: 2 Sam. 7:18-19,24-29, Ps. 132:1-5,11-14, Mark 4:21-25
“And he said to them: Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret, except to come to light.” (Mark 4:21-22)
David wanted to build a befitting Temple for God. He had all the resources to do so. Nathan delivered a message from God to him: “You are not the one to build me a house.” David did not protest; he did not go out stubbornly to begin the construction work. He went down on his knees and prayed to God. It takes great humility, first to recognise God’s voice in His prophets and to obey it.
In 1st Samuel 13, Saul waited seven days for Samuel to come to Gilgal to offer the sacrifice, but Samuel was still on his way. Saul noticed that some of his soldiers were gradually leaving, and, in annoyance, feeling that he could take Samuel’s place, went ahead to offer the burnt offerings. The moment he finished, Samuel showed up. This was the beginning of Saul’s woes.
If you were in David’s shoes, would you obey the words of Nathan? How much value do we place on instructions we receive from God’s ministers? How do we react to the teachings of the church that are contrary to our personal opinions, such as abortion, in vitro fertilisation, euthanasia, and so on?
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “Is a lamp put under a bushel or under a bed? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest, nothing secret except to come to light.” Just as light can never be hidden, Jesus wants us to know that we can never hide. There is nothing we do secretly that would not eventually come to the light; there is nothing hidden that would not be known. It is only a matter of time. It is better to do what is right than to try to cover your tracks later on.
Jesus says, “To whom much is given will much be expected.” God expects more from us than the rest of the world. God expects us to shine like bright stars in a world so full of darkness. God wants you to make a difference. He wants you to lead the way, to show good examples, to inspire even those who have sold their souls to the devil.
In Romans 12:2, St. Paul tells us not to be conformed to this world. James warns us: “Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?” (James 4:4). St. John adds: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15)
Let us pray: Almighty ever-living God, direct our actions according to your good pleasure, that in the name of your beloved Son we may abound in good works. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Thursday of week 3 in Ordinary Time Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: 2 Sam. 7:18-19,24-29, Ps. 132:1-5,11-14, Mark 4:21-25)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu