First Reading - 1 Samuel 18:6-9,19:1-7
Gospel - Mark 3:7-12
The First Reading from 1 Samuel shows the tragic shift in Saul’s heart. What begins as joy over David’s success quickly turns into fear and resentment. Saul hears the praise of the people and feels diminished. Instead of rejoicing in what God is doing through another, he becomes consumed by comparison. David’s gift is no longer a blessing; it is a threat. Jealousy blinds Saul to truth, erodes trust, and eventually leads him toward violence.
Yet in the midst of this darkness, another figure quietly shines. Jonathan chooses loyalty over rivalry. He recognizes God’s work in David and protects him, even at personal cost. Jonathan shows us that faithfulness to God sometimes means letting go of our own advantage so that God’s plan may unfold.
The Gospel from Mark presents a striking contrast. Jesus attracts crowds from every direction. His presence draws the sick, the desperate, and even unclean spirits who recognize his authority. Yet Jesus does not cling to popularity or allow acclaim to define his mission. He withdraws when needed, sets boundaries, and refuses to let recognition distort his purpose. Where Saul is threatened by attention given to another, Jesus remains free in the face of attention given to himself.
The contrast is revealing. Saul’s identity depends on comparison, so praise becomes dangerous. Jesus’ identity is rooted in relationship with the Father, so praise neither inflates nor controls him. One reacts with fear and control. The other responds with clarity and compassion.
Dear friends, comparison is everywhere. We measure ourselves by others’ success, recognition, or progress. Slowly, joy is replaced by resentment, and gratitude by insecurity. Even within faith communities, comparison can erode unity and trust.
God’s work is not a competition. Another person’s gift does not diminish your calling. God’s plan is wide enough to include many roles, many gifts, and many paths. Freedom comes when we stop guarding our status and start trusting God’s purpose.
The invitation today is honest and healing. Notice where comparison may have taken root in your heart. Ask for the grace to rejoice in the gifts of others. Choose loyalty over rivalry, as Jonathan did. And learn from Jesus, whose peace came from knowing who he was, not from controlling how others responded to him.
When we release jealousy, space opens for joy. When we trust God’s work beyond ourselves, fear loosens its grip. And when we allow humility to guide us, our lives become places where God’s grace can flow freely, unblocked by comparison and alive with peace.
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