Our vocation is to walk in faithfulness, righteousness and uprightness of heart!

February 03, 2024 Saturday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Blase, bishop and martyr
Daily readings: 1 Kings 3:4-13,  Mark 6:30-34

Young King Solomon stands in the presence of God to offer a sacrifice to God, who is pleased with the young man. He is grateful to God for that moment of transition. As he takes over the mantle from his father, he recalls the greatness of God in displaying steadfast love to his father, David, who walked in faithfulness, in righteousness and uprightness of heart. He realizes that it is because of his dad’s virtues that he is given the throne. God invites Solomon to ask for anything that he is in need of.

The young and inexperienced lad doesn’t ask for silver and gold but for an understanding mind to govern God’s people and the ability to discern between good and evil. With the sentiments of the Psalmist in Ps 119, we can say that Solomon asked the Lord to teach him His statutes. He does the right thing. It pleases the Lord. He grants him a wise and discerning mind in addition to riches and honour.

The disciples present their progress card faithfully to Jesus, looking for a pat on their back. They think that mission is their doing. It is not so. It is God’s doing. Jesus thinks that they need some time for themselves to allow their experiences to sink in. It is not only a time to recuperate but also to evaluate and take stock of their undertakings. Mission work needs periodic paradigm shifts according to the context of the people and their culture, besides the signs of the time. The people are able to see them, recognize them and follow them. Thus, they create an opportunity for Jesus to preach.

Jesus begins his ministry of teaching with a compassionate heart. The image of the people likened to ‘sheep without a shepherd’ calls for a kind heart to identify the needs of the people. This scenario invites God’s people to read the signs of the times, an expression that gained momentum at the time of the Second Vatican Council. It is a challenge. Jesus recognizes this moment as an occasion to reach out to the people and also teach his disciples, who have just completed their first ever missionary tour.

Holy Mother Church honours the memory of St. Blaise, a physician by profession and outstanding in virtue. He was arrested, tortured and beheaded for his faith in Christ.

Call to Action for Catholic Living: Solomon’s approach to life pleased the Lord. Our vocation is to try and please the Lord at every moment of our lives. How much am I able to do that in my life situations?