"In God I trust; I shall not fear" (Ps 56) had to be David's mantra, as he learns that Saul is determined to kill him. Saul is jealous that David, following his killing of Goliath. The women from all the cities of Israel attribute to "David ten thousands, but only thousands to me. All that remains for him is the kingship" (1 Samuel 1: 6-9). Saul's son Jonathan intercedes on his behalf, convincing his father not to kill David. Though he does not do so, his jealousy is aroused over and over again, as is that of David's own son Absalom. David spends a lot of time hiding from those who seek to kill him. In the Gospel of today, Mark 3: 7-12, Jesus asks his disciples to provide him a boat "because of the crowd, so that they would not crush him". We also know that eventually the Scribes and Pharisees were so jealous of Jesus' popularity and afraid the people would put Him on the throne that they, too, plotted to kill him and did so.
Jealousy and envy are attitudes that can lead nations, families and individuals into murderous plots and/or other behaviors that bring harm to one's perceived enemies as well as to oneself. What do I do when the "Saul," the "Absalom," the "Scribe," or the "Pharisee" in me dominates my thoughts and actions?
May jealousy and envy within us be transformed by an attitude of thankfulness and rejoicing in the Lord. May we put "on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts" (Romans 13:14) or, in the words of Ephesians 4:24, by our putting "on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness".
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