Monday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
(II Samuel 15:13-14.30, 16:5-13; Mark 5:1-20)
Today’s first reading will make some wonder, “What does this
bit of history have to do with Jesus Christ?” Probably more than most people
think. The focus of the story is David,
King of Israel and predecessor of Jesus.
His virtuous action here hints of Jesus’ glory and provides example for
Jesus’ followers.
David undergoes dual trials of his own son’s treason and the
rebellion of his nation. These setbacks are
narrated not as the results of the nation’s evil and certainly not as accidental
developments. They come about because
David slept with Uriah’s wife and had him killed to cover up his sin. David now recognizes that his duress from his
disloyal son and the stone thrower Abishai are prompted by God’s justice. He has learned his lesson. Wisely now he refrains from having Abishai
killed.
As much as any of us, David sinned. He also admitted his guilt and trusted in God’s
justice and mercy. Jesus will bear more
than his name as “Son of David.” He will exhibit David’s prudence in action and
hope in the Lord. Of course, Jesus never
sinned. Because we sometimes do, we should
follow David’s willingness to do penance and to trust in God’s mercy.
