Passing authority

The passing of authority from one leader to another is a process which can bring the best and the worst in human nature to the surface. The passage from the First Book of Kings in the Roman CatholicLectionary today is advice from David to his second oldest son, Solomon, to walk in the way of the Lord and keep his Laws, statutes and observances. This faithfulness to God is the role of the heir of David in the Promise of God that a dynasty would be established in the line of David. Friar Jude Winkler notes that the history of the ascent of Solomon reveals a shrewd political opportunist who initiates a reign of terror as those who may oppose him in power are executed. The Gospel from Mark presents the entirely different and counter cultural way in which the authority of Jesus, which is the authority of God in exorcism, teaching and healing, is transferred to His disciples. Don Schwagerand Diane Jorgensen reflect on the simple dependence of the disciples on Providence and the collaboration of others to sustain them in their mission. The temptation to let power and privilege and personal security, aggrandizement and greed motivate our action and direct the power we have for our gain is muted in the discipline of a simple life in poverty where we are open to the hospitality and opinions of others.  Diane Jorgensen comments that conversation about differences doesn’t need to be offensive. Our job is to invite, but to change minds, hearts and behavior is the work of the Holy One. The time frame of that change and the possibility that we may follow Jesus to give all in the effort is brought to mind by the forgiveness voiced by SaintPaul Miki as he and his Companions are martyred. The memorial of these disciples who exercised the authority of Jesus with the people of Japan is kept today in the Church.