The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary invite us to contemplate the intrusion of feelings of jealousy and anger (among others) that may diminish our trust in the Love of God.
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| Trust and Gratitude |
The passage from the First Book of Samuel describes how Jonathan intercedes for David when Saul has concluded what more can David have but the kingdom.
* [19:4] Jonathan reminds Saul that David has served him loyally and done nothing to earn a traitor’s death. Cf. 24:18–20.1
The psalmist maintains a firm confidence in God.
* [Psalm 56] Beset physically (Ps 56:2–3) and psychologically (Ps 56:6–7), the psalmist maintains a firm confidence in God (Ps 56:5, 9–10). Nothing will prevent the psalmist from keeping the vow to give thanks for God’s gift of life (Ps 56:13).2
The Gospel of Mark reveals how a multitude at the Lakeside experienced the Mercy of Jesus, Son Of God.
* [3:7–19] This overview of the Galilean ministry manifests the power of Jesus to draw people to himself through his teaching and deeds of power. The crowds of Jews from many regions surround Jesus (Mk 3:7–12). This phenomenon prepares the way for creating a new people of Israel. The choice and mission of the Twelve is the prelude (Mk 3:13–19).3
Cindy Costanzo asks how does fear, suspicion, insecurity, self-doubt, jealousy, envy and resentment affect our lives?
I do trust in God, I am faithful, I have had many experiences in my life that I know have been interventions by God. However, I know from experience that daily life struggles, emergencies, chaotic schedules can prevent me from taking needed time. Needed time to slow my pace, reflect, pray, and complete the Examen. Reflection, prayer, completing the Examen provides me space to sit with God. During this time I become aware of my inner feelings and desires. This awareness leads to a consciousness which leads to action. Action to change and redirect my energies more positively.4
Don Schwager quotes “Faith works by love,” by St. Augustine of Hippo, 354-430 A.D.
"The 'faith that works by love' (Galatians 5:6), is not the same faith that demons have. 'For the devils also believe and tremble' (James 2:19) but do they love? If they had not believed, they would not have said: 'You are the holy one of God' or 'You are the Son of God' (Mark 3:11-12; Luke 4:34,41). But if they had loved, they would not have said: 'What have we to do with you?' (Matthew 8:29; Mark 5:7; Luke 8:28)" (excerpt from Letter 194, To Sixtus)5
The Word Among Us meditation on Mark 3:7-12 comments when God acts, amazement follows. Imagine hearing of sickness healed, lifeless limbs restored, and despair and dejection banished. If you heard enough of these healings, you might dare to think that miracles are possible even for you. The news could rouse your hunger and give birth to hope. Even hearing of “little” things like worries eased, an unexpected kindness, or getting a good night’s sleep could have a similar effect.
The simple spoken word is powerful, and you can share that kind of good news. If you think God has done something in your life, tell someone about it. If you think God has shown something to you in prayer, or if a reading at Mass resounds in your heart, tell someone. It’s possible that you will ignite hope or faith in them. You don’t have to dramatize it, and you don’t have to speak to multitudes. Try telling just one person, simply and plainly, about what God has done for you. Then leave room for the Holy Spirit to spark deeper faith.6
Friar Jude Winkler suggests that fear of a Davidic dynasty and depression and paranoia may have supported the anger of Saul. Jealousy is often aroused very easily when others receive more praise than we. Friar Jude reminds us of the “Son of God” witness to Jesus at the beginning and end of His ministry in the Gospel of Mark.
Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, comments when so much of our world is focused on making us feel like human “doings” instead of human beings, moving into solitude and silence is both a gift and a burden. Once we have overcome the external pressure to perform, we are left with our own interiority. The trouble—and opportunity—in solitude is that there is no one around to blame for our moods and our difficulties.
I have experienced similar frustration more times than I care to count. It seems that wherever we go, there we are, warts and all. The gift and grace of contemplation is in receiving God’s gaze. Love sees our nakedness, accepts us unconditionally, and empowers us to change.7
Our whole being, dark and light, is part of the environment where we daily encounter ourselves and others. Faith that trusts in God is our fortification against troubles from our faults.
References
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