“Aligning our hearts with God’s commands, and making our life ‘an orchestra of obedience!'”

(Based on 2 Sam 6:12b-15, 17-19 and Mk 3:31-35 – Tuesday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

In a lively city, a conductor gathered musicians for a grand orchestra. >> Excitement filled the room as they prepared for a special performance.

As they were about to commence their rehearsal, the conductor exhorted: “Each of you has a unique role, a special note to play. Together, we’ll create something extraordinary.”

During practice, however, a violinist approached the conductor, saying, “I’ve been thinking, maestro. What if I add a little flair, my own touch, you know? Spice things up a bit!”

The conductor, with a smile, replied: “Ah, my dear, your enthusiasm is admirable, but remember, our strength lies in unity.
Each note, as written, contributes to the masterpiece.
Let’s stick to the composition for the melodious music to unfold.”

On the big night, the orchestra played in perfect harmony, captivating the audience.

However, the spirited violinist, unable to resist the temptation, added a personal twist to the melody.
The result was a discordant note that disrupted the once-perfect symphony.

The conductor, with a gentle yet firm tone warned: “My friend, dont forget that the beauty is in the shared adherence to the score.

Your unique flair, though admirable, has momentarily disrupted our unity.”

Realizing the negative impact, the violinist nodded, as the conductor encouraged: “Let’s finish strong, together.”

As the orchestra resumed, the unity was restored.

The symphony reached its crescendo, leaving the audience in awe.

Our lives are instruments in God’s symphony.

True commitment means joyfully following God’s commands…
… and creating a harmonious composition

The readings of the day are a call to rejoice in following Lord’s ways…
… and to make our life “an orchestra of obedience!”

The First Reading – 2 Samuel 6:12-15, 17-19 – presenting David joyfully dancing before the Ark of the Covenant as it is brought to Jerusalem, offers us points for reflection:

1. Expressive Worship: David’s exuberant dance before the Ark showcases a devotion that goes beyond mere ritual…
   … emphasizing the importance of expressing joy and gratitude in our relationship with God.

When we delight in the commands of God, we begin to be joyful and expressive in our love for the Lord and in His service

2. Holiness in our acts of devotion: David’s act of wearing a linen ephod during the procession emphasizes the sacredness of worship.

When we pray, we are called to seek for holiness in life, and translate our prayer life into devout acts of service to God and others, in daily life

3. Community Celebration: The involvement of the entire house of Israel in bringing the Ark and joining David in shouts of joy highlights the communal aspect of worship.

We are reminded that our relationship with God is not only personal, but also has a community dimension – as we are called to live in unity

David gives the highest honour to God – by restoring the Ark, in the City of Jerusalem, reminding us…
… obedience leads to expressive workshop
… obedience impels us to pursue holiness in our acts of devotion
… obedience inspires us to have community dimension in our prayer

The Gospel (Mk 3:31-35) is a strong reminder of who is part of the family of Jesus: Only those who do God’s Will!

We are called to check if our life “is centered on seeking and doing the Will of God, at every moment, in every situation!”

What is our attitude and mentality…

Am I primarily concerned with worldly affairs, or do I engage myself more into spiritual realities?
Am I obsessed more with worldly gains, or am I zealous for spiritual graces and blessings?

David’s example encourages a prioritization of our spiritual journey…
… recognizing the significance of honouring God’s presence

Jesus declares that only those who do God’s Will are His disciples…
… recognizing also the powerful discipleship of Mary

Let us align our hearts with God’s commands…
… and make our life “an orchestra of obedience!”

God Bless!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – THE DIGNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON – THE GRAVITY OF SIN: MORTAL AND VENIAL SIN

“Venial sin does not deprive the sinner of sanctifying grace, friendship with God, charity, and consequently eternal happiness.”
While he is in the flesh, man cannot help but have at least some light sins. But do not despise these sins which we call “light”: if you take them for light when you weigh them, tremble when you count them.

A number of light objects makes a great mass; a number of drops fills a river; a number of grains makes a heap. What then is our hope? Above all, confession. (CCC # 1863)