Here are some of the themes in the readings for the 7th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Samuel 26:2,7-9,12-13,22-23
While trying to kill David, Saul is asleep and unattended when David comes upon him.
David spares Saul’s life, offering clear proof of his mercy.
Psalm – 103:1-4,8,10,12-13
“The Lord is kind and merciful.”
God, who is merciful and gracious, has compassion on us and pardons all our sins.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 15:45-49
Paul contrasts the first man, Adam, with Jesus (the last Adam) to highlight the natural and the spiritual.
By becoming like us, Christ unites our nature to his and restores what was lost by sin.
Gospel – Luke 6:27-38
The “Golden Rule” (Do to others as you would have them do to you) is highlighted in this passage in a number of ways: love one’s enemies, share or lend with those in need, stop judging, forgive one another.
“For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”
The prophet Jeremiah reminds us that what we cultivate in our hearts will flourish in our lives. May we have the courage to take stock of the crop we find within and assess if it is worthy of the Lord.
This is a new low point for Israel. The kingdom is now hopelessly divided, idolatry is promoted throughout the land, and the people are far from God. Yet in the midst of this messiness the Lord remains faithful and present to those who call for help.
As the kingdom breaks down and Jeroboam challenges Solomon, we see the devastating effects of division. May we apply the lesson to our own lives as well.
Solomon’s wives turn him toward the worship of other gods, so that his heart is no longer entirely for the Lord. May we be reminded how easy it is to let other things take the Lord’s place in our lives.
The queen of Sheba seeks out Solomon to listen to his responses to her questions. Her search for wisdom gently reminds us to draw near to those who help us grow in knowledge and insight.
Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the Temple serves as a crucial reminder to keep our relationship with the Lord anchored in prayer each and every.
As his kingdom prospers, Solomon gives thanks to God and dedicates vast resources for the construction of the Temple which will house the Ark of the Covenant.
Both Isaiah and Peter face their fears as they embrace the Lord’s invitation and follow with all their heart. May their example inspire us to echo the words of Isaiah: Here I am Lord! Send me!
Three Great Things 