4 February, Friday – A Powerful Choice

Friday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time

Ecc 47:2-13
Mk 6:14-29

In all his activities he gave thanks to the Holy One, the Most High, in words of glory; he put all his heart into his songs out of love for his Maker.

Such opposites as seen in today’s readings. The first reading speaks of a boy who lives life freely and simply, yet able to take down a giant when many couldn’t, with a sling of a stone. The Gospel today shows us a how a powerful king had to succumb to his oath and possibly go against his own wishes to keep his pride in front of many.

A common theme between the contrasting readings, I would suggest, stems from power and the choices we make in life. It is quite clear who has the greater power when we read the passages. Most of us would say King Herod. What power does he have if he had to go against his wishes because of a request from his daughter? It seems that despite his power, he is somewhat restricted. I wonder if he controls the power or is the power controlling him?

When we look at control, we look at choices. Do we want to take charge, or be at the mercy of others? I believe I am blessed to be able to make such a choice, when many around the world may not have this luxury as they are fighting for their lives, just to survive or to live another day. Despite being a young boy, living a carefree and simple life, David took up the responsibility to face a giant and his life changed forever. Despite being a powerful king, Herod placed far greater importance on the words and the love he had towards his daughter.

There is sacrifice in both instances but very different outcomes. The better outcome was of course the choice David made, to choose God and to know that God had chosen him too.

Who or what have we chosen? Who or what have we been choosing? What is our desire? Power?

Have outcomes turned out as we have wished? Have we made these outcomes better? Or have chosen to live in our mistakes?

Wherever you are or whatever you’ve done can’t be changed, but everything that we are going to do from here on can. We are all given this powerful choice for the easiest choice that we ever need to make — and that is to choose God. May we, in all our activities, give thanks to the Holy One, the Most High, in words of glory; put all our hearts into his songs out of love for our Maker. Amen.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Benjamin Mao)

Prayer: Dear Lord, we pray for wisdom and discernment in the decisions we make daily with the power you have given us. Help us to be brothers and sisters in Christ to one another and be disciples for all. May we have the courage to always choose you, to choose life, to choose love. Help us to see You in all your glory when we choose you over the things of this world. Amen.

Thanksgiving: Thank you Lord, for showing us that there are no boundaries to your love, guidance and protection. Thank you Lord, for showing us how You can help us overcome obstacles in our way when we rely on you. Thank you Lord, for giving us this powerful choice. Amen.