Memorial of Saint Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr
In reflecting upon the readings today, the ideas of commitment and obedience come to mind. In the first reading Daniel does not want to accept the food and wine from the king because it may be unclean. While Daniel doesn't want to put the life of the chief chamberlain at risk, he also does not want to compromise his beliefs. So Daniel, a faithful Jew seeks out another solution. Before moving on to the solution, I think it's important to reflect on Daniel's commitment and obedience to his Jewish faith. He is in a difficult position having been brought under the service of a Gentile king, and there seem to be things outside of his control, such as what is served to him. It would be easy for Daniel to say, "it's out of my control, so I guess I'll just eat the food and wine served to me." But he doesn't do that. Daniel, at the very least, attempts to find a solution that will allow him to remain obedient to his Jewish faith and committed to God. Daniel does not look for an excuse to make the covenants of his faith easier. How often are we like Daniel? Where are the places in your life that you find it easy to remain committed to God and to the Church? And where in your life do you find it difficult to remain obedient? Do we make excuses to make our faith “easier” or do we seek other solutions?
When I read Daniel’s deliverance of his solution, I sense that Daniel is confident in his plan. It’s kind of an odd request. Where did this idea come from? Did Daniel pray to the Lord in earnest for a way out of this situation? While this specific language isn’t used in the reading, the Holy Spirit was likely at work in Daniel’s heart and mind. To suggest something out of the ordinary, and to have the confidence and belief that the idea will work, must come from God. You may have heard these words before: God’s ways are not our ways. God makes unusual requests at times; and He asks us to trust in His way, His plan. Again, how often are we like Daniel? Do we listen for God’s voice? Do we seek His counsel when we need a solution? Or do we listen to the culture around us and do what seems “normal” and what “makes sense”? During the busy holiday season try and find some time to sit in silence and listen for the Lord’s voice.