7th Sunday in Ordinary Time
First reading 1 Samuel 26:2,7-9,11-13,22-23
“ Today the Lord put you in my power, but I would not raise my hand against the Lord’s anointed”. The First Reading highlights a profound lesson on the responsible use of power and the moral integrity it demands. When David finds King Saul at his mercy, he recognizes that the opportunity to harm the Lord’s anointed is not a license for violence or revenge but a test of his character and reverence for God’s will. David’s refusal to raise his hand against Saul teaches us that power and opportunities are not given for self-serving purposes or to harm others, but to uphold justice, mercy, and the dignity of every person. True strength lies in restraint, respect for the sacredness of life, and the commitment to do good, even when circumstances might justify otherwise. This moment in Scripture calls us to reflect on how we use the influence and opportunities entrusted to us—whether in leadership, relationships, or daily encounters—always choosing integrity over impulse and compassion over control. Let’s reflect: How do I use the power and opportunities entrusted to me—do I seek to serve and uplift others, or am I tempted to act out of self-interest or resentment?
Don Giorgio