The reading from the Second Book of Samuel today speaks of King David as one who heals a breach in the confederation of the twelve tribes of Israel. I am sure that we are all aware of how difficult it is to bring people together who bear grudges and who are still fighting ancient feuds. The reading also indicates that while the majority of Israel was satisfied to have David as their king, not all were so ready to accept him even after he was anointed king.
The Gospel today also references the issue of division. As the Gospel of St. Mark unfolds, the enemies of Jesus steadily grew more and more hostile to him. Jesus speaks of a house divided against itself. This phrase was used at the time that our country was on the verge of civil war. That catastrophic period of our history is still the source of tension in our society. The Gospel reveals that such division is nothing new.
Today we pray about division within our country. Each year we mark the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision to strike down laws banning abortion by offering prayers in reparation for this sin and by asking God to bless us with leaders who will protect the lives of the unborn.
Praying for an end to such practices in our society is only the beginning. Our house is divided by this issue and so many other life issues. Respect for life demands that we treat all with the dignity that has been bestowed on them by our Creator. The most vulnerable in our society cry out to us for justice. That justice will only come when we begin to cherish all life and regard ourselves as part of the fabric which is God’s creation.
Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator