Wednesday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time
First Reading
2 Samuel 24:2, 9–17
David orders a census of Israel. Afterwards, his heart strikes him and he confesses his sin before the Lord. Choosing to fall into God’s hands rather than human punishment, David trusts in divine mercy, even as the consequences of sin unfold.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 32:1–2, 5–7
Lord, forgive the wrong I have done.
The psalm proclaims the blessedness of forgiveness. Sin is not denied, but confessed; healing comes when guilt is brought into the light of God’s mercy.
Gospel
Mark 6:1–6
Jesus teaches in his home town of Nazareth, but those who know him best struggle to believe. Their familiarity becomes an obstacle to faith. Jesus is amazed at their lack of faith, yet continues his mission, laying hands on a few sick people and bringing healing where hearts remain open.
Reflection
David’s repentance reveals that conversion is not about self-justification, but humility. He acknowledges his sin plainly and entrusts himself to God’s mercy rather than his own solutions. This reflects the Church’s teaching that repentance begins with truth before God (CCC 1455–1456).
In the Gospel, the rejection of Jesus in Nazareth exposes a quieter danger: the refusal to recognise God at work because he appears too familiar. Faith is not sustained by proximity alone, but by openness of heart. The Catechism reminds us that faith is a personal adherence to God that must be continually renewed (CCC 150, 162).
Together, these readings invite us to honest repentance and renewed attentiveness. God’s mercy is offered freely, but it is received only by hearts willing to see, to trust, and to begin again.
One line to carry today
Repent with honesty — and remain open to grace where God is nearest.
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