Saint Agatha, Virgin, Martyr
Thursday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time
First Reading
1 Kings 2:1–4, 10–12
As David approaches death, he entrusts the kingdom to Solomon with a final exhortation: to remain faithful to the Lord, to walk in God’s ways, and to keep the covenant. Solomon’s reign begins not with conquest, but with a call to obedience and trust.
Responsorial Psalm
1 Chronicles 29:10–12
You, Lord, are exalted over all.
David blesses the Lord before the assembly, proclaiming that greatness, power, glory, and sovereignty all belong to God alone. Human authority is recognised as a gift received, not a possession claimed.
Gospel
Mark 6:7–13
Jesus sends out the Twelve two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits. They are instructed to travel lightly, depend on hospitality, preach repentance, and bring healing. Their mission is marked by trust in God rather than self-reliance.
Reflection
The readings for the memorial of Saint Agatha emphasise faithfulness under trial and trust rooted in God alone. David’s counsel to Solomon highlights that leadership and legacy are sustained through obedience to God’s law, not through personal strength or ambition (CCC 1807). The psalm reinforces this truth by proclaiming God as the source of all authority and glory (CCC 2090).
In the Gospel, Jesus commissions the Twelve with authority that flows from him, not from possessions or preparation. Their mission reflects the Church’s apostolic calling to proclaim repentance and bring healing through reliance on God’s grace (CCC 863–865). Saint Agatha’s martyrdom embodies this same fidelity — a life wholly entrusted to God, even in suffering (CCC 2473).
Together, these readings invite us to examine how we exercise trust, authority, and courage in our own lives, remaining faithful to God whatever the cost.
One line to carry today
Remain faithful — and let God’s strength work through you.
No comments:
Post a Comment