How should Christians respond to authority figures who fail in their responsibility or abuse their power? The story of David and King Saul teaches us that respect for authority does not mean endorsing wrongdoing. David chose patience, humility, and deep trust in God’s timing, and believed that only God has the authority to remove a leader. Even when he had the opportunity to seize power and harm Saul, David was convicted that goodness must never be achieved through violence or revenge.

The Gospel reminds us that even Jesus walked patiently with imperfect leaders, including Judas, who could not accept God’s way of working. True leadership and discipleship require walking closely with God and with those we serve, trusting that God remains in control even when human authority fails.

Reflection Question: Where in your life are you being invited to trust God’s timing rather than taking control yourself?

The world celebrates ambition, yet ambition often breeds jealousy, fear, and insecurity, as seen in King Saul’s response to David’s success. Christian life calls us instead to vocation, a life oriented toward God and the service of others. When we trust God’s plan and embrace where He has placed us, we are freed from comparison, envy, and the need for recognition. Jonathan shows us the peace of a heart secure in God’s will, David reminds us to examine our motives, and Jesus models service rooted in love rather than fame or power. True vocation transforms our hearts, allowing us to serve with joy, humility, and courage, celebrating the success of others while remaining faithful to God’s calling in our own lives.

Reflection Question: Where in my life might ambition be disguising itself as service and what would change if I truly trusted that God has placed me exactly where I am meant to be?

Where is our focus in life? What we choose to focus on will shape how we respond, how we endure, and even how we hope.

David stood before Goliath not by relying on weapons or strength, but by fixing his eyes on God who had never failed him. On this memorial of St Agnes, we see the same faith at work. Though young and vulnerable, she found courage by focusing her life entirely on the Lord.

Jesus shows us true focus, not on rules for their own sake, but on mercy, compassion, and the urgent need to do good. His attention is fixed on the one who is suffering, reminding us that love cannot wait.

When we focus on God rather than our fears, inadequacies, or self-interest, we gain the freedom and courage to act with faith, compassion, and hope, even in the midst of struggle.

Reflection Question: When I am faced with my own “giants” or encounter suffering around me, where is my focus? How is the Lord inviting me to shift my gaze today?