Saul was a man with both strengths and weaknesses. As Israel’s first king, chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel, he certainly enjoyed the favor of the Lord and received divine strength for his mission. A strong man, marked with dignity above his fellow Israelites, he had personal courage and charisma. He was a natural leader, and he began his reign with great promise and potential.
Yet Saul’s adult life was marked by two tragic flaws: jealousy and disobedience. Today’s first reading highlights his jealous streak. The fact that David—a mere servant—was receiving greater acclamation than Saul drove the king to consider David a rival and contemplate killing him. Even though Saul’s son, Jonathan, was able to temporarily persuade Saul not to harm David, Scripture tells us that his jealousy did not end. On numerous occasions later on, Saul made attempts on David’s life. Ultimately, David was forced to flee.
As if this weren’t enough, Saul also exhibited a pattern of disobedience toward God. After he won a particularly fierce battle against the Amalekites, Saul offered an unlawful sacrifice (1 Samuel 13:8-10). He also spared the Amalekites’ king and the best of the people’s cattle, in direct disobedience to God’s command (15:7-9). Finally, in defiance of the Law of Moses, Saul consulted a pagan soothsayer to seek direction instead of asking God for guidance (28:4-25). On the next day, Saul was critically wounded in battle and, in despair, took his own life (31:3-6).
Don’t make the same mistake as Saul! Don’t underestimate the destructive potential of sin! It’s because Saul let failings like jealousy and disobedience fester in him that he met with such a tragic death. Perhaps you are struggling with some flaws in your own life. Rather than turning a blind eye to them or, even worse, feeding them, find the courage to turn to Jesus for healing and strength. Go to him in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and let him set you free. Don’t give up on God. He hasn’t given up on you. Even now, he promises that he can change anyone who turns to him.
“Lord Jesus, heal me of every hurtful situation and jealous thought. Let your love and compassion restore my soul.”
Psalm 56:2-3,9-13; Mark 3:7-12