2 Kings 11:1-4,9-18 / Ps.132/ MATTHEW 6:19-23
The first reading presents us with the reign of Athaliah the queen mother who reigns over Judah. Athaliah was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel and was given to King Jehoram of Judah as a bride. She was a bad influence on both her husband and her son. In her desire for power and reign, she killed many souls. It was like the reign of Satan. Eventually, after six years, after the legitimate king took over power, she was executed by the sword.
Beloved, why do we desire power? What are the things we do to preserve ourselves in power? Why are we killing to remain in position? No man will reign forever.
Jesus says “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matt. 6:20). Jesus linked this command to the desire of our hearts: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21). Beloved, we must learn to avoid obsessive accumulation of power and wealth. Treasure Jesus the most. When Jesus is our treasure, we will commit our resources (money, time and talents) to His work. If the goal is to serve, then we have no reason killing those we want to serve.
LET US PRAY
Father, have mercy and save us from the hands of wicked leaders. Amen.
