1 Samuel 15: 16-23; Psalm 50; Mark 2: 18-22
The wedding theme continues in the gospel when Jesus tells his friends that no one fasts with the bridegroom present. He and they will soon be new wine—and in abundance! In the first reading, God rejects Saul as king. Samuel must tell him, that although Saul went on “the mission” God sent him, he did not obey. God told him to destroy all the spoils, but Saul took the best sheep and cattle as an offering to God. Samuel asks, Does God take delight in sacrifice or in obedience? The psalm reiterates that theme; in it, God asks for a sacrifice of thanksgiving.
Do you fast? Do you know why? Renew your intention and be sure to include thanksgiving for all the good things you are missing. If you do not fast, how do you thank the bridegroom for his constant presence in your life? How do you obey?
Jesus, obedient, thankful, generous, make our hearts your very own that in our gratitude we might be generous and give ourselves in obedience to whatever you tell us.