God’s Call and Our Response

God’s Call and Our Response The Homily reflects on readings from Scripture, focusing on how Saul . . . . . . despite being appointed and anointed by God and filled with the Holy Spirit . . . fell from grace. The central question, “How have the warriors fallen?” is repeated to emphasize a tragic decline rooted in disobedience to God and jealousy. Saul stopped listening to God, chose his own ego, and became consumed by comparison and envy toward David’s success. The Homily compares this to everyday experiences of comparison and highlights that the antidote is gratitude and obedience to God, recognizing that God’s grace meets our needs, not our wants. The Homily closes with a prayer that we remain attentive, obedient, and grateful to God so as not to fall like Saul. Listen to God’s Call and Our Response --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why was this image selected: This moment of divine calling highlights the importance of listening and responding to God . . . a central lesson in the text. It contrasts obedience with Saul’s failure to heed God. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The Calling of St. Matthew: Italian Painter: Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, : 1599-1600 This painting is unique. It depicts Jesus, with an outstretched arm, pointing to Levi. The tax collectors are illuminated by light as they look at Jesus. St. Peter stands near Jesus, as He tells Levi to Follow Me!. The painting resides in Rome within San Luigi dei Francesi. The painting hangs next to two other St. Matthew paintings, including the Martyrdom of St. Matthew. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Mark 3: 20-21 First Reading: 2 Samuel 1: 1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27