It is 16th January 2016. The readings are from 1Samuel 9:1-4, 17-19, 10:1 and the Gospel from Mark 2:13-17. The first reading describes about finding the first king of Israel. Saul was looking for his lost asses while God was searching for a king for Israel. Samuel anointed Saul as the first king. “You are the man who must rule the Lord’s people, and who must save them from the power of the enemies surrounding them.” (1 Sam. 10:1). The responsorial Psalm prays, “O Lord, your strength gives joy to the king.” (Ps.20:2). The Gospel reprimands us not to hate sinners. The purpose of Jesus ministry was to bring the utmost mercy of God by accepting the fallen ones. Jesus demonstrated compassion to the highest extent. Jesus loved the company of the sinners, tax collectors and those who are fallen out of grace. Jesus was not ready to condemn sinners but led them to experience the spring of mercy from the heart of Jesus. We cannot be like the Pharisee in today’s gospel, separating ourselves and making ourselves to be so self-righteous. We need to learn to accept all people regardless of their tribe, race, language, colour, religion and status. “It is not the healthy who need the doctor, but the sick. I did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners.” (Mk.2:17). May God grant us the heart of Jesus to lead others to experience God’s mercy as we have experienced in our life. Have a good day.