In God I trust; I shall not fear. — Psalm 56:5

Mass Readings: 1 Samuel 18:6-9;19:1-7 / Mark 3:7-12

The Wind

Today’s first reading introduces us to a prince and a pauper: Jonathan, son of King Saul; and David, a simple shepherd-boy, who serves in Saul’s palace. They become friends but it’s not their class differences that make this relationship so unusual. It’s the fact that Jonathan, knowing David will one day ascend the throne, not only befriends him but sticks out his neck for him.

In the movie Beaches, Bette Midler sings the song “Wind Beneath My Wings” in tribute to the friend who was the source that enabled her to “fly higher than an eagle.” That’s the kind of friend Jonathan was, and David’s tribute to his friend is found in 2 Samuel 1. When was the last time I thanked God for those who changed my life? When was the last time I thanked them?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me be a good friend today.