January 17, 2022, Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time-C ST. ANTHONY, ABBOT
1 Samuel 15:16-23
Psalm 50
Mark 2:18-22
“Obedience is better than sacrifice,” 1 Sam. 15:22”
As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast.” Mk. 2:19
Lord, Saul teaches Samuel that obedience to God is more important than sacrifices. Offering a lamb or bird in sacrifice can be an empty ritual that does not reflect the humility of men’s hearts. You desire that our hearts are open to the will of God and our actions show a true conversion to obedience. I can become comfortable with rituals and repetitive prayer. How often have I daydreamed when saying the “Our Father” without all my attention and focus on you and God. You taught the people that you desired a new and fresh relationship between God and mankind. Fasting is good but it is better to feast on the new wine, divine life, you offer us. You were perfectly obedient to your Father even to the cross. Lord, I want to empty myself so you can fill me with the new wine of your grace. The psalm today says: “He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies God.” Lord, give me a new heart that is ready to be a fresh wineskin in your kingdom. I am confident in whatever you wish to make me. St. Anthony pray for me. Amen