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Weekday
1 Kings 12:26-32, 13:33-34
Psalm 106:6-7AB, 19-20, 21-22
Mark 8:1-10
Summary
In today's Old Testament reading, Jeroboam asks: what will it take to turn the
heart of Israel away from its master, King David? Returning to the worship of the
golden calf, a very old idol, is his answer. The Psalmist laments the sin of Is-
rael's repeated turning away from the Lord by their "exchanging their glory for the
image of a grass-eating bullock". In the Gospel, Jesus feeds his flock with
loaves and fishes and "they ate and were satisfied", not just with the food but
with glory of God which Jesus reveals in sustaining His people.
Reflection
We humans have a tough journey in this life. We long for refreshment, both for
our spirits and our bodies. Our spirits are made in such a way that we long for
meaning, for purpose, for reassurance. We long for what only God can and does
provide. But we're not satisfied with that. We don't want to depend on Another,
trust Another, wait patiently on Another. No, that won't do. That's too "iffy", too
uncontrollable, too frightening and humbling.
So, we will make our own god(s) which we can shape and control. These we
know are idols but hate to admit it. The Psalmist reminds us of just how tough it