Thursday, January 23, 2014

David and Jonathan's friendship: Daily Mass Homily--Thursday, January 23rd, 2014


           We hear the beginnings of one of the most touching friendships in the Bible in 1 Samuel—David and Jonathan.
            Saul begins his rash competition with David when he hears the women sing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.”  Rather than side with his jealous father, Jonathan stands by his friend David.
            This is no small sacrifice.  Not only did Jonathan have to face courageously his vengeful father, but also supported David’s God-given call to be king.  This was quite a gift as Jonathan was the son of the king and headed for the throne himself.  Yet he gave all that up for his friend.
            We cannot underestimate the importance of having good Catholic friends.  Jesus himself traveled with twelve of his closest friends and was especially close to his inner circle of three—Peter, John and James.  When I observe our students, it is often the case that those surrounded by Christian friends strive for excellence in the Church, while those who do not drop off.
            This morning we thank God for the friends who push us to excellence and intimacy with God.  We pray that we, too, may be such friends for many others.

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