Saturday, January 31, 2026

 

Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest

(II Samuel 12:1-7a.10-17; Mark 4:35-41)

Today’s first reading shows the effects of sin.  It not only comes back to bite the sinner but creates a destructive ripple in society.  Like a tsunami the ripple can grow to devastate homes and cities.  David believed that as king he could do anything he wanted.  He could sleep with another man’s wife.  He could have the man killed for his convenience.  But David like everyone else is subject to God’s justice.  He will not only suffer the death of his child, but also dissension among his other sons and continual upheaval among his descendants.

The story is repeated on a larger scale today.  Sexual promiscuity and marital infidelity have resulted in vast numbers of abortion, abuse of women, and children in poverty.  Should there be any wonder that sexual entrepreneurs like Jeffrey Epstein arise?

Our world often seems like the stormy sea described in today’s gospel.  Jesus is with us in the boat of society.  But we must seek his wisdom and follow it if we are ever to live in tranquility.

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