Friday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time (Waitangi Day)
First Reading
Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) 47:2–13
David is remembered not only as a warrior and king, but as a man of praise. His songs and prayers flow from gratitude and trust, acknowledging that all victory and strength come from the Lord.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 17(18):31, 47, 50–51
The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock.
The psalm proclaims God as protector and deliverer, giving thanks for salvation and steadfast love that endures across generations.
Gospel
Mark 6:14–29
John the Baptist is imprisoned and executed for speaking the truth without fear. Herod’s weakness and fear of opinion stand in contrast to John’s unwavering integrity and faithfulness to God’s law.
Reflection
The First Reading presents David as a model of worship rooted in humility. His praise recognises that leadership and success are gifts from God, not achievements to be claimed. The Catechism teaches that true prayer begins with gratitude and trust in God’s goodness (CCC 2637–2638).
In the Gospel, John the Baptist embodies moral courage. He refuses to soften the truth, even when it costs him his life. His witness reflects the Church’s teaching that martyrdom is the supreme testimony to the truth of faith (CCC 2473). Together, these readings invite us to live with integrity — praising God sincerely and standing firm in truth, even when faithfulness demands sacrifice.
One line to carry today
Faithful praise and faithful truth both require courage.
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