Day 155: Jesus Is Lord

Today's readings: Mark 3-4 and Psalm 20.

I. Mark 3 recounts how Jesus healed a man with a withered hand, which angered the Pharisees since it was the Sabbath. They began to plot with the Herodians to have Him killed. Jesus later attracted great crowds, and wherever He encountered evil spirits, they fell before Him, and He commanded them not to reveal Who He Is. Jesus then appoints the Twelve Apostles. Some of His relatives are convinced that "He is beside Himself." The scribes claimed that Jesus was possessed by the Devil, which He dismissed, but warned them that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit wouldn't be forgiven. When His mother and brethren come to visit Him, and He is told, Jesus says that, "Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother."

In the next chapter, He tells the Parable of the Sower before a huge crowd by the Sea of Galilee. When asked by the Apostles, Jesus explains why He chooses to speak in parables, citing Isaiah 6:9–10. Next, He told the Parable of the Seed Growing Secretly. Finally, when Jesus falls asleep in a boat with the Apostles while crossing the Sea of Galilee, a storm frightens them, and they cry out to Him. Jesus calms the storm, amazing the Apostles that He had authority over nature like this.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

Jesus shows that he is Lord over the Sabbath by fulfilling its intended purpose - bringing God's people into communion with him. Jesus speaks of the unforgivable sin - blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, this means being willfully unrepentant and refusing to accept God's mercy and forgiveness. We need to bring everything to the foot of the Cross and allow God to forgive us... After Jesus calms the storm, the apostles ask who he can possibly be. Jesus shows them that he is the Lord, the eternal Son of the Father. (p. 74)

II. Psalm 20 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A royal psalm. It is a prayer for the king's victory in battle and may have formed part of a liturgy conducted before marching off to war. The psalm joins community intercession with a word of assurance, perhaps spoken by a priest or Levite at the sanctuary. Divine protection is invoked through God's "name". (p. 846)

That's all for today!

Day 154: The Baptism of Jesus

Today's readings: Mark 1-2 and Psalm 11.

I. Mark 1 quickly establishes Jesus' authority over His disciples, doctrine, demons, disease, and ritual uncleanness, which is inseparable from His relationship with the Father. We meet John the Baptist, and Jesus is baptized, with an incredible theophany from heaven. Then Jesus faced testing in the desert by the devil. John is arrested after this; the Apostles are called to follow Him, and Jesus begins His public ministry, teaching with authority unlike the scribes. That authority is displayed when He miraculously calls out an unclean spirit from a man. Miracles are again shown in the healing of Peter's mother-in-law, and the chapter ends with His healing of a leper.

In the next chapter, Jesus shows that He has divine authority, which sparks a growing conflict with religious leaders. He forgives a paralytic of his sins in Capernaum, which angers religious leaders as blasphemy. Jesus then healed the man, showing that He does indeed have such authority. He later calls on Matthew to follow Him, and then eats dinner with him. This scandalizes the scribes and Pharisees, but He shows that He is the Divine Physician who heals sinners. When asked about fasting, He describes Himself as the Bridegroom while He is on earth. Finally, the Pharisees accuse Him of breaking the Law when His Apostles pluck grain to eat, showing that He is the Lord of the Sabbath.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

Scripture tells us that, due to sin, the world is in slavery to the Devil. So Jesus comes not only to teach and heal us but to save us. We can either choose to belong to the kingdom of darkness by remaining in bondage to sin or we can be transferred by the grace of Christ into the kingdom of light. When Jesus tells the paralytic that his sins are forgiven, the scribes present claim that this is blasphemy because only God can forgive sins. Here we see in the Gospels that Jesus claims to be God. (p. 72)

II. Psalm 11 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes:

A psalm of trust. The speaker is hunted by wicked men yet refuses to flee to the mountains, despite the urging of others who are concerned for his life. Instead, he seeks the Lord as his refuge, confident that God sees all things from heaven and judges all men according to their deeds. (pp. 839-40)

That's all for today!

Messianic Checkpoint #2 - The Gospel of Mark

No readings today, but another break from the Old Testament with a look by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Jeff Cavins at the Gospel of Mark.

As the BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

Mark is the shortest of the Gospels, and some scholars believe it was the first to be written. Mark's explanation of Jewish customs suggests that his Gospel was intended for Gentile Christians. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the "synoptic Gospels," as all three share similar content... Jesus' faithfulness to the will of the Father will become the model for his disciples. In contrast to picking up arms and fighting the political system of the day, Jesus calls all who follow him to deny themselves, pick up their cross, and come after him. What Mark proclaims is foolishness to some but life for those who both believe and walk in the truth. (p. 71)

That's all for today!

Day 153: The Decline of Solomon

 Today's readings: 1 Kings 11, Ecclesiastes 10-12, and Psalm 9.

I. 1 Kings 11 recounts how Solomon’s heart turned away from God, and his disobedience led to the eventual division of Israel. His foreign wives turned his heart to idolatry, which greatly angered the Lord. Solomon spent his final years in turmoil as his kingdom unraveled. The prophet Abijah told Jeroboam that God had given him the ten northern tribes. Solomon tried to have him killed, but he fled to Egypt for refuge until the old king died. When he did die, his son Rehoboam took the throne, and the troubles sparked by Solomon's faithlessness began.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes: 

Solomon experiences an unraveling of his faith because he gives his heart to something other than the Lord - to hundreds of wives and concubines, as well as false worship... This is why it is important to choose relationships that support rather than weaken our relationship with God. It is especially important to choose a spouse who shares our faith. (p. 68)

II. Ecclesiastes 10 observes that a little folly can undo a great deal of wisdom, so the wise person should exercise prudence, self-control, and diligence, especially when dealing with authority.

In the next chapter, Qoheleth notes that man cannot control or fully understand God's providence, so we shouldn't let uncertainty paralyze us. We should work diligently, be generous, rejoice in God's gifts, and remember that God will judge how we live.

Ecclesiastes 12 brings the entire book to its conclusion. Youth, strength, pleasure, work, and earthly achievement will all pass away. Therefore, we must remember God while we still have life, and live in light of the judgment to come.

It's a pity that the reading of this great book is now at an end.

III. Psalm 9 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes:

A thanksgiving psalm. The speaker appears to be a king, i.e., someone whose enemies are individuals as well as nations. He is also someone concerned for the plight of the oppressed. Confidence is placed in the righteousness of God, who judges the world and defends the cause of the poor. (p. 838)

That's it for today!

Day 152: Being Forgotten

 Today's readings: 1 Kings 10, Ecclesiastes 8-9, and Psalm 8.

I. 1 Kings 10 parallels 2 Chronicles 9 in recounting the visit of the Queen of Sheba as well as Solomon's wealth and splendor.

II. Ecclesiastes 8 speaks of wisdom and obedience to authority, the apparent prosperity of the wicked, the mystery of earthly justice, and the observation that human reason cannot comprehend everything God does.

In the next chapter, Qoheleth observes that death comes for us all, to the righteous and the wicked, and from our earthly perspective we cannot see how everything will turn out. The dead no longer participate in the activities of this earthly life that we toil with. We should be grateful for God's temporal gifts despite life's brevity. He also observes that though we can have great intelligence and ability, these still don't guarantee earthly success. Finally, he notes that while wisdom is genuinely valuable, the wise aren't necessarily honored for it.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

A main takeaway from Ecclesiastes is this: if this life is all there is, then all is vanity, all is meaningless because nothing endures... Being at peace with the recognition that we will eventually be forgotten is a gift. Our lives matter because this life is not all there is. Even if I am the smartest or strongest person in the room, this is only by chance. Eventually this moment will end - and someone smarter or stronger will come along. In such moments, we are invited to surrender to the Lord rather than to give in to our desire to be in control. (p. 66)

III. Psalm 8 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A psalm of praise. It begins and ends proclaiming the majesty of God, whose glory shines forth in the wonders of creation. The Psalmist stands in awe of the heavens and marvels that the Lord shows such loving concern for man. Even more, he is amazed that man, despite his lowliness, has been crowned and made king over all lesser creatures. (p. 837)

That's all for today! 

Day 151: Wisdom and Folly

Today's readings: 1 Kings 9, Ecclesiastes 6-7, and Psalm 7.

I. 1 Kings 9 recounts events after the completion of the temple and Solomon's palace, focusing on God's second appearance to Solomon, the dedication of Israel to covenant faithfulness, Solomon's many building projects, and his wealth and administration. In His second appearance to Solomon, God makes it clear that His promises must be accompanied by the responsibility of covenant obedience, that is, not turning aside from Him and serving idolatry.

II. Ecclesiastes 6 continues the warning that possessing good things is not the same as being able to enjoy them. Wealth, honor, long life, and even a large family cannot satisfy man if God is absent from the center of his life. Someone else ultimately enjoys what has been accumulated, for we are mortal and slated to die.

In the next chapter, Qoheleth turns toward wisdom, especially the wisdom that comes through suffering, humility, patience, and remembering death. This is not to glorify any of these, but to put money, status, resentments, temptations, and ambitions into their proper perspective. Misery isn't the goal, but suffering can form us in ways that amusement cannot (Rom 5:3-4).

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

Ecclesiastes can be troubling and, at times, confusing, but it can also be inspiring if we receive it correctly. The author of Ecclesiastes says that the day of our death is more important than the day of our birth - meaning, all things will end. If we recognize this, then we can live with clarity and purpose. (p. 64)

III. Psalm 7 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm. One who is falsely accused appeals to the Lord for help and legal acquittal. Such a prayer was probably recited in the Temple, where the accused swore an oath of innocence that invoked a curse upon himself should he be guilty of the accusations brought against him. The Psalmist concludes with a vow to offer a thanksgiving sacrifice to the Lord once justice has been rendered. (p. 836)

That's all for today!

Day 150: The Dedication of the Temple

 Today's readings: 1 Kings 8, Ecclesiastes 3-5, and Psalm 6. 

I. 1 Kings 8 recounts the dedication of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem and marks the moment when the Ark of the Covenant is brought into the Temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This is paralleled in 2 Chronicles 5-7.

II. Ecclesiastes 3 has the famous "For everything there is a season..." section, which has even been made into a song by the secular band The Byrds in the 1960s. This portion of Ecclesiastes essentially is teaching us how to live when we cannot understand or control what God is doing with our lives. We don't control everything that was created; God does.

In the next chapter, Qoheleth becomes rather dark. He tells us that God will ultimately judge injustice, yet in this fallen world, there is injustice for now: oppression, rivalry, loneliness, and the instability of worldly success.

Ecclesiastes 5 gives us what we need in this sinful world: to take God seriously, for He is eternal while we and wealth are not. Our relationship with God, money, and the things we think will make us secure are covered by Qoheleth.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

In the book of Ecclesiastes, the "preacher" considers the passing nature of happiness on earth. The takeaway: we should have plans rather than dreams. In other words, we should set out to do what we say we will do. Ecclesiastes tells us that if we love money, we will never be satisfied with it. Many people make huge salaries but have no life outside of their work. They keep working harder, though, because they want to make even more money. We need to examine our own lives to see if we have a similar mentality regarding anything of this world. (p. 62)

III. Psalm 6 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm that Christian tradition counts as one of the seven penitential psalms, along with Pss 32, 38, 52, 102, 130, 143. The Psalmist has done wrong and feels himself under God's judgment. Sickness is the divine discipline from which he pleads to recover with tears of repentance. (p. 836)

That's it for today!

Day 149: All is Vanity

Today's readings: 1 Kings 7, Ecclesiastes 1-2, and Psalm 5.

I. 1 Kings 7 describes the construction of Solomon's palace complex and the furnishing of the Temple after the Temple building itself is completed in the last chapter.

II. Ecclesiastes 1 opens with one of Scripture’s great reflections, essentially that everything we do in the world if solely of this world is vanity, or meaningless. We live, we die, and with the passage of time no one in this world will even know we existed.

In the next chapter, with the problem stated in the previous chapter, the Preacher conducts an experiment: can pleasure, wealth, achievement, or wisdom give man lasting happiness? He finds that the answer is no apart from God.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

We need to keep in mind that one day no one on earth will even know our names. If we are living for a legacy to be remembered, this is vanity, meaningless. The ultimate point the preacher highlights is this: If we are living in this world simply for this world, it is meaningless. Time will erase everything if we are living apart from God. But there is more than time; there is more than this life. If our choices in this world matter in eternity, then our lives matter. Only if God exists and has a purpose for our lives do any of our choices matter at all. (p. 60)

III. Psalm 5 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A morning prayer for God's help. It contrasts evildoers, who have no right to stand before the Lord in his Temple, and the righteous, whose admittance to the sanctuary is due to the Lord's kindness and brings his blessing. As often in the Psalms, the sins of the Psalmist's enemies are sins of speech. (p. 835)

That's all for today!

Day 148: Solomon's Wealth

Today's readings: 1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 9, and Psalm 4.

I. 1 Kings 6 describes the construction of King Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, and parallels 2 Chronicles 3-4.

II. 2 Chronicles 9 recounts the climax and conclusion of Solomon's reign, his extraordinary wealth, international fame, and death. Most interesting to me was the story of the Queen of Sheba, who visited and put his God-given wisdom to the test. After he died, he was buried in the City of David, and his son Rehoboam took over as king of Israel.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

Solomon built the Temple for the glory of the Lord. Now, though, we read that he amasses wealth for himself and his own glory. Here, we can ask whether Solomon is becoming an image of strength rather than actually being strong. We need to ask ourselves whether we are seeking to project an image of wisdom, holiness, or strength - rather than being truly wise, holy, or strong. (p. 58)

III. Psalm 4 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

Combines elements of a lament psalm and a psalm of trust. The Psalmist appeals to the Lord for vindication from false accusations that are made by his adversaries... The Psalmist admonishes enemies to examine themselves and repent. Paul quotes the Greek LXX version of this passage in Eph 4:26. (p. 835)

That's it for today! 

Day 147: Temple Worship

Today's readings: 1 Kings 5, 2 Chronicles 7-8, and Psalm 66.

I. 1 Kings 5 recounts how Solomon prepared to build the Temple, fulfilling what his father David had desired to do. This included making an alliance with Tyre and obtaining timber from them. Solomon also organized the labor for the materials in building the Temple.

II. 2 Chronicles 7 followed the completion and dedication of Solomon's Temple. It had two major events: God visibly accepted the Temple and then privately warned Solomon that covenant faithfulness matters more than the building itself. 

In the next chapter, Solomon puts his kingdom, especially its worship, into proper order. He did many construction projects to benefit the Israelites, and placed the surviving non-Israelite peoples under forced labor. He implemented David's liturgical organization for the Temple and cooperated with his ally in Tyre on maritime trade.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

Though the Lord has given Solomon a direct warning to remain close to him, we know that he does not. Solomon takes foreign women as his wives, but instead of bringing them into the covenant, he allows them to continue to worship their false gods. This opens Solomon up to idolatry. The worship God desires is obedience. While Solomon is the wisest man in Israel, he is unwilling to be obedient to the Lord. There is only one way to love God: to obey him and love our neighbor. (p. 56)

III. Psalm 66 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A thanksgiving psalm. The speaker invites the world to sing of God's greatness; he celebrates God's gifts and miracles on behalf of Israel; he vows to offer the Lord sacrifices in gratitude; and he tells how the Lord rescued him from peril in answer to prayer. Even Gentiles are invited to bless the God of Israel. Note that the worship of God is expressed in both word and deed, song and sacrifice. (pp. 883-884)

That's all for today! 

Day 146: The Universal Church

Today's readings: 1 Kings 4, 2 Chronicles 6, and Psalm 65.

I. 1 Kings 4 recounts the organization and prosperity of King Solomon's reign after he became king. Basically, we learn of his main officials, the peace and prosperity in Israel during his reign, and the fame his wisdom gained.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has a rather puzzling note on this:

Solomon delegates his authority by selecting twelve men to serve as leaders in Israel. As Catholics, we can see ourselves as members of the universal Church; other times, though, we might think in more territorial or "parochial" ways - "I go to St. Martin's. I would never go to St. Luke's." While we belong to our parishes, we always need to remember that we belong to a universal Church. (p. 54)

I say "puzzling" because though the statement is correct, I am unsure of how this connects to 1 Kings 4.

II. 2 Chronicles 6 takes place immediately after the completion of Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem. This is established as the sole place of sacrifice. We also find one of the great prayers of the Old Testament, which strongly emphasizes God’s presence, the Temple, repentance, forgiveness, and intercessory prayer.

III. Psalm 65 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A psalm of praise. The Lord is acclaimed (1) for his mercy, which he grants to worshippers in the Temple, (2) for his power, which is revealed through his mighty acts of creation and redemption, and (3) for his goodness, which is manifest in the rains that produce a bountiful harvest. Creation itself gives praise because God's sovereignty is not confined to Israel or its capital but extends to the whole earth. (p. 883)

That's it for today!

Day 145: Solomon Builds the Temple

Today's readings: 1 Kings 3, 2 Chronicles 4-5, and Psalm 64.

I. 1 Kings 3 recounts how Solomon asked God for wisdom rather than wealth or power, to which the Lord responded by gifting him all three. One of the most famous demonstrations of Solomon's wisdom comes from his ruling between two women who disputed the motherhood of an infant (3:16-47). However, we also get some early hints that his reign will not be without problems. The first being his marriage to Pharaoh's daughter. That meant an entangling alliance with pagan Egypt and a mother of his children who herself was raised pagan. 

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

For the first time, we begin to sense that Solomon, for all his wisdom. is going to do something unwise. The Lord has given Solomon the wisdom to know the difference between right and wrong, but he does not necessarily choose what is right over what is wrong. Like Solomon, we might know the right thing to do, but this does not mean that we will always do the right thing. We need God's grace both to know the truth and choose to live it. (p. 52)

II. 2 Chronicles 4 continues the account of the construction of the Temple, concentrating not on the building itself but on the objects used in its worship and sacrifices. The sacred furnishings are completed for the worship of God and placed in the Temple.

In the next chapter, the Temple was completed, the Ark was placed in the Holy of Holies, and God made His presence known as the glory of God filled the Temple.

III. Psalm 64 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm. The speaker prays for God's protection against the treachery of enemies who plot to harm him with evil words - presumably by slanderous accusations. He is confident, not only of his innocence, but that God will dole out a fitting punishment on his persecutors. Then the righteous will rejoice that justice has been served. (p. 882)

That's all for today!

Day 144: David's Last Words

 Today's readings: 1 Kings 2, 2 Chronicles 2-3, and Psalm 62.

I. 1 Kings 2 recounts the final instructions of King David to his son Solomon and the beginning of Solomon's reign. David then dies. For the latter, Solomon has Adonijah executed after the latter made a final "power-play" for his throne. He also has Joab executed for his past murders and Shimei for breaking his oath not to leave Jerusalem. He removes Abiathar the priest from the priesthood, and finally, installs a new high priest along with a new military commander.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on what will come into play shortly: 

We often hear that children pay more attention to the example we set than the advice we offer. David advises Solomon to stay close to the Lord and heed his commands, but his example to his son was that of a divided heart and a distant father. We will soon see that Solomon follows his father's example rather than his advice. (p. 50)

What I really found interesting was this one when Bathsheba went to King Solomon:

In the previous chapter, we saw Bathsheba bow in the presence of David. Here, though, King Solomon rises to meet Bathsheba and bows to her. We read that there is a throne for her to the right of his. Since the king has many wives, his mother is the queen of the kingdom. The Church on earth and in heaven is the fulfillment of the kingdom of Israel. In this new kingdom, Jesus is the king and Mary is the queen. We give Mary honor - not worship - because Jesus himself gives her honor. 

II. 2 Chronicles 2 tells about how Solomon prepares to build the Temple, including the organization of the labor to be employed.

In the next chapter, with the preparation work done, the construction of the Temple is described. What was most striking to me is that the Temple is located on Mount Moriah, where Abraham was going to sacrifice his son Isaac on the Lord's command, only to stop when told to (Gen 22). 

III. Psalm 62 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A psalm of trust that bemoans how powerful people seek security for themselves by deceiving and taking advantage of others. They are misled, the Psalmist implies, since God is the only secure basis for our trust and happiness. No confidence can be placed in wealth and unjust gain. God, after all, will judge all according to their actions. (p. 881)

That's it for today! 

Day 143: Solomon Asks for Wisdom

 Today's readings: 1 Kings 1, 2 Chronicles 1, and Psalm 43.

I. 1 Kings 1 recounts the transition from David's reign to Solomon's as king of Israel. David is old and weak. Another son, Adonijah, tried to become king in place of Solomon, but ultimately failed. Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba interceded for Solomon. David intervened to see Solomon anointed and installed as king. I must say, David had many successes in his life, except when it came to his family. His sins caught up with him in his family life.

II. 2 Chronicles 1 begins Solomon’s reign and emphasizes that his kingship is established by God. It parallels 1 Kings 3, although Chronicles gives special attention to worship at the sanctuary in Gibeon. I do like how he starts off by asking God for wisdom, something a good leader needs. Yet, as the BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

We might ask how Solomon starts out wise and later falls away from God. The problem begins when he starts amassing treasures. In direct disobedience to Deuteronomy, he collects horses from Egypt. While wisdom is a great virtue to have, obedience is more powerful. Disobedience to the Lord will be Solomon's downfall. All of us have been given gifts from God - but they mean nothing unless we use them to accomplish his will. (p. 48)

III. Psalm 43 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm. It may have originally formed the second half of Ps 42. The Psalmist's prayer is twofold: he asks that God would defend him from the scheming of evil men; and he asks that God would guide his steps back to the Temple and its joyful worship. (p. 866)

That's all for today! 

Day 142: Whole and Joyful Hearts

 Today's readings: 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 29, and Psalm 30.

I. 2 Samuel 24 recounts David’s sinful census, the resulting judgment, David’s repentance, and the purchase of the threshing floor that will become the site of the Temple.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

In the book of Numbers, we see how the Lord orders a census to help save his people, but David conducts a census to assert ownership over God's people. When he recognizes his sin, David is humbled, which shows that his heart is open to being converted. In repentance, he offers sacrifice to the Lord on behalf of the people. (p. 46)

I rather like this. David knew he had messed up. Rather than ignore this or be defensive, he was humble in repenting for his sin, even offering to sacrifice for the people. We can say much about his behavior in some things, but none of us is without sin, and David gives us a good example of how to turn back to God. 

II. 1 Chronicles 29 records David’s final preparations for the Temple, the people’s generous offerings, David’s prayer, and Solomon’s accession. David dies, and his son Solomon takes over as king.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

David gives freely and wholeheartedly of his wealth - all the things he has won in battle. Because of this, the people of Israel also give freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord. This brings joy to David because it brings joy to the Lord. We bring joy to the Lord when we give joyfully and without resentment. (p. 46)

III. Psalm 30 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes:

A thanksgiving psalm. The speaker is filled with gratitude after being healed from a near-fatal sickness. The memory of his struggle and recovery leads him to praise the Lord and to invite fellow worshippers to join him. In later Judaism, Ps 30 was sung at the Feast of Hanukkah, which commemorated the rededication of the Temple by Judas Maccabaeus in 164 B.C. (1 Mac 4:36-59). Christian tradition has often read Ps 30 in reference to the Resurrection of Christ. (p. 853)

That's all for today!

Day 141: The Life of David

Today's readings: 2 Samuel 23, 1 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 42.

I. 2 Samuel 23 gives David's last recorded words and a list of his mighty warriors.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

[W]e hear the stories of David's three mighty men: Josheb-basshebeth, a Tah-chemonite; Eleazar, son of Dodo, son of Ahoi; and Shammah, son of Agee the Hararite. David recognizes that he needed those around him to accomplish what God had called him to do; he knows that he could not have done it on his own. Like David, we should give God praise in every circumstance - and also recognize those around us and praise them for what they have done. (p. 44)

II. 1 Chronicles 28 recounts David's final public charge concerning the building of the Temple. Although he desired to build it himself, God chose his son Solomon instead for that task.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

[W]e read that David hands the reigns over to Solomon. Though Solomon starts out strong, he will not end strong. Solomon starts out with great wisdom, but he will eventually waste that wisdom and turn his back on the Lord. But the Lord does not turn his back on his people. The same is true for us: when we turn our backs on the Lord, he does not abandon us. (p. 44)

III. Psalm 42 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm. For reasons unstated, the Psalmist is separated from Jerusalem and unable to worship at the Lord's sanctuary. Memories of participating in Israel's sacred liturgies have brought him to tears and have fueled his desire to return to the holy city. Scholars surmise that Pss 42 and 43 originally formed one psalm... (p. 865)

Day 140: David's Prayer of Thanksgiving

 Today's readings: 2 Samuel 22, 1 Chronicles 27, and Psalm 41.

I. 2 Samuel 22 is David's great hymn of thanksgiving after God delivered him from Saul and his other enemies, which is nearly identical to Psalm 18. He celebrates God's faithfulness, justice, and power, while acknowledging that all his victories came from the Lord alone.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

David reflects on his life and proclaims that the Lord has saved him because he loves him. He can look back on his life and rejoice, despite all of his failures... David understands his brokenness. His sins have been on full display to the people of Israel. Yet he knows that God's strength has helped him and made him great. The challenge for us is to acknowledge the truth of our lives courageously, both the good and the bad, and recognize where God has helped us with his grace to overcome our weaknesses. (p. 42)

II. 1 Chronicles 27 describes how David organized the kingdom before Solomon's reign. It highlights David's orderly administration and shows that good governance is part of faithful kingship.

III. Psalm 41 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A thanksgiving psalm for a recent healing. The Psalmist's recovery is celebrated briefly before he looks back on the trials of his sickness, when he was slandered by enemies and betrayed by a close friend. The Lord's care for the sick as well as his healing power are confirmed by the Psalmist's experience. (p. 865)

That's all for today!

Day 139: Reparation to the Gibeonites

 Today's readings: 2 Samuel 21, 1 Chronicles 26, and Psalm 40.

I. 2 Samuel 21 gives two episodes that occurred near the end of David's reign. In the first, Israel experienced a three-year famine. David seeks help from the Lord, who reveals that it is due to Saul's bloodguilt for attempting to destroy the Gibeonites (Joshua 9). The Gibeonites refuse money, but demand seven male descendants of Saul to be handed over for execution. David gives them what they ask. Afterward, he buries their bodies with the bones of Saul and Jonathan, and the famine ends. In the second episode, the Philistines again make war on Israel, and David is nearly killed, but is saved by Abishai. David realizes that he can no longer fight battles as he used to, having grown older.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary about the closing of this chapter:

The final section of 2 Samuel 21 describes wars with the Philistines. There is something powerful about how David, despite being old and weary, is still willing to go into battle. In 2 Samuel 11, we see that he avoided battle, but now he is willing to do his duty as king. David has come face-to-face with the fact that he is no longer the man he once was. This is a lesson to all of us as we continue to grow and get older. There is something humbling about this truth. (p. 40)

As someone who has grown older myself, it is indeed humbling but also a bit frustrating at times. 

II. 1 Chronicles 26 describes the organization of the gatekeepers, treasurers, and other officials responsible for the administration of the Temple and the kingdom under David. Although the Temple had not yet been built, and wouldn't be until Solomon reigned, David organized its future ministry in advance.

III. Psalm 40 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A thanksgiving psalm to which a prayer for mercy and help are joined. The opening verses celebrate God's marvelous intervention in coming to the Psalmist's rescue - actions that he now proclaims publicly and gratefully. His experience of being saved serves as a lesson for the others, encouraging them to trust in the Lord as well. Psalm 40 is the responsorial psalm for the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. (p. 863)

That's it for today!

Day 138: The Effect of Sin on Others

Today's readings: 2 Samuel 20, 1 Chronicles 25, and Psalm 39.

I. 2 Samuel 20 recounts a rebellion by Sheba the Benjaminite. Although he is eventually defeated and killed, enough Israelites had sided with him that this is another foreshadowing of how Israel would split after the death of Solomon. During the fighting, Joab murdered a rival named Amasa, which will cost him his own life later (1 Kings 2:5-6; 32-34). 

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary about David's poor concubines:

As we see in 2 Samuel 20:3, violence begets violence. David left ten of his concubines behind to care for the house, and Absalom raped them. Because of this, David treats them as widows. They are sequestered until their deaths. This seems unjust. They are "caught in the crossfire" between David and Absalom's evil choices. Here we see how others can suffer due to our sins. The consequences of our evil choices do not end with us. (p. 38)

I don't even know what to say here. Easy for me to judge 3,000+ years later, but still. Those poor women were truly treated unjustly from the description.

II. 1 Chronicles 25 describes how David organized the musicians for the worship of God in the Tabernacle. It emphasizes that sacred music was a divinely appointed ministry and not just merely a performance.

III. Psalm 39 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes:

A lament psalm. Initially the speaker, beset with a terminal illness, was determined to accept his suffering quietly and without complaint; but when his condition worsened, he was unable to keep silent any longer. He asks the Lord for a true understanding of the brevity of life and prays for deliverance from both his sin and his sickness. (p. 863) 

That's all for today!

Day 137: David Mourns Absalom

Today's readings: 2 Samuel 19, 1 Chronicles 24, and Psalm 38.

I. 2 Samuel 19 recounts the aftermath following the death of Absalom and the end of the rebellion. It moves from David's grief over Absalom's death to his restoration as king over Israel. Joab rebukes David for his deep mourning, telling him that such dishonors the soldiers who have died for him. David heeds him, morale improves, and he is restored as the rightful king of Israel. Shimei, who had cursed David, meets with him and asks for forgiveness. Abishai wants him executed, but David shows the man mercy. David is unsure of him, but Mephibosheth reveals his loyalty and humility. Barzillai, who had supplied David's forces during the rough times, is rewarded. Finally, the northern tribes complain that Judah brought David back without consulting them. The argument becomes heated, foreshadowing the later division of the kingdom after Solomon dies.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, has some good commentary on this:

[W]e see that David mourns the death of Absalom. This is understandable for him as a father, but it brings shame upon the people because of the twenty thousand who died to preserve David's kingdom. Seeing David's grief, the people believe he would rather they had died than Absalom... Later, the people of Judah reestablish David as king of Israel, but there is dissension between them and the other tribes. Here, we can see the seeds of rebellion that will take place after the death of David's son Solomon. (p. 36)

II. In 1 Chronicles 24 David organized the descendants of Aaron into 24 priestly divisions to serve in the Temple. Although Solomon would later build the Temple, David prepared its worship in advance.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

[T]he line of David is highlighted because from it will come the Messiah... Though priests only come from the tribe of Levi, David is sometimes described as wearing an ephod - a priestly garment - when he goes to pray before the Lord... Jesus, a descendant of David in the tribe of Judah, is described as a priest in the order of Melchizedek - which is different from the Levitical priesthood. Here, David foreshadows Jesus both as King and priest. (p. 36)

III. Psalm 38 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm that Christian tradition counts as one of the seven penitential psalms, along with Pss 6, 32, 51, 102, 130, 143. Having committed sin, the Psalmist is seized by mental and physical distress that he regards as divine discipline. He is alienated by friends and family and feels vulnerable to the scheming of his enemies. His confession of sin is coupled with earnest appeals for God's help. (p. 862)

That's it for today!

Day 136: Absalom is Defeated

Today's readings: 2 Samuel 18, 1 Chronicles 23, and Psalm 37.

I. 2 Samuel 18 recounts how Absalom's rebellion is crushed as David's forces defeat his army, and Absalom is killed. Yet, the victory is overshadowed by David's sorrow over the death of his son.

II. 1 Chronicles 23 marks a transition from David's reign to Solomon's as king. David is near the end of his life, and he prepares carefully for the Temple that Solomon will build. The focus is on worship and proper service to God rather than military achievements.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

David establishes what Temple worship is to look like. He changes some of the former rules. Since the Temple is larger than the Tent of Meeting and is a permanent structure, there is a necessary shift in the type and amount of work that needs to be done. So David restructures the service of the Levites, reducing the minimum age for serving from thirty to twenty. (p. 34)

III. Psalm 37 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A wisdom psalm. The poet is an elderly wise man who speaks from a lifetime of experience. He counsels those who are vexed and angered that the wicked seem to prosper while the righteous struggle through life with very little. Reassurance is given that this is merely a temporary situation, for the ungodly are destined to reap the just punishments they deserve. In the meantime, the righteous are urged to trust in the Lord as their refuge and to wait upon his justice. Psalm 37 is an acrostic poem in which every other line begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. (p. 860)

That's all for today!