It is 16th January 2018. The readings are from 1 Samuel 16:1-13; and the Gospel from Mark 2:23-28. God’s standard for choosing leaders is not like that of ours. In the first reading, having rejected the first king for his failure in obeying the voice of God, now, God is looking for a leader. God’s choice is so completely different from the expectations of ours. We normally look for a tall man in physique, intellectual, outstanding in financial matters and interpersonal relationship and so on. But God goes for a person of integrity, and intuitively leaning towards God. God cannot be impressed by the outward show and appearances. God introspects the heart of the person and the quality of the soul before choosing a person for leadership. In the first reading we read, God rejected the seven boys of Jesse whom the prophet Samuel liked them for the way they were looking outwardly. God preferred a small shepherd boy, a dreamer, a lover of flute and songs, unspoiled, handsome young man David. “The Lord said, ‘Come, anoint him, for this is the one.” (1 Sam.16:13). The responsorial Psalm praises, “I have found David, my servant.” (Ps. 88:21). The Gospel explains the power of weekly sacrifices in relation with man. Our sacrifices must be for the cultural, spiritual, intellectual and social connectedness with other human beings to relate with God. Sunday is not for pleasure and idleness. It is the day for God and humanity to encounter, enrich and expand the connection between them. The power of intention in relating with God must not suppress the power to connect with other fellow human being. Humanity is greater than religion and religious expressions. Human beings need not be sacrificed to appease and to uphold a bunch of religious sentiments. “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath; so, the Son of Man is master even of the sabbath.” (Mk.2:27). May you have a good day.