DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph

MONDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (II)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Celebration: Ferial 

📖 Table of the Word

First Reading:1 Samuel 15:16–23

Gospel: Mark 2:18–22

Theme: The Obedience That Gives Birth to Renewal

Reflection

Obedience to God desires a listening heart as today's first reading exhorts us. It is in responding to this divine mandate that we will be renewed and be counted among those whose Master"s presence brings about our needs as the Gospel pericope clearly highlighted (cf. Mark 2:18–22)

The first reading presents an account of Saul’s downfall which was not an act of rebellion but partial obedience (cf. 1 Samuel 15:16–23).

He carries out God’s command selectively, sparing what pleases him while claiming religious justification. The prophet Samuel’s words cut to the heart:

“To obey is better than sacrifice.”

God exposes a timeless temptation: using religion to excuse disobedience. God seeks hearts that listen completely, not gestures that appear holy.

No wonder, the Church teaches that obedience is an act of faith, not loss of freedom (cf. Perfectae Caritatis, 14). It aligns the human will with God’s life-giving purpose.

Today's gospel pericope puts before us our Lord Jesus confrontation on the question about fasting with a profound revelation (cf. Mark 2:18–22).

His presence inaugurates something radically new. Old structures cannot contain the vitality of the Kingdom.

This does not mean rejecting tradition but allowing it to be renewed by Christ’s life. Where hearts remain rigid, grace spills and is lost.

The Church on the other hand understands renewal as continuity with transformation (aggiornamento). Pope St. John XXIII reminded the Church to open windows, not to abandon faith, but to let the Spirit breathe.

Finally, my neloved brothers and sisters God desires obedience that listens deeply.

- God rejects worship without integrity.

- He pours new wine where hearts are open and flexible.

And today, He whispers: 

"Obedience makes room for renewal,

and humility becomes the vessel of grace."

+ Peace of Christ be with you!

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