King David is not a saint, in that he is far worst then King Saul. The only thing that classifies them apart, is their relationship with God. And when David is confronted with the choice of punishment, he rather be taken to task by God, then human beings. In today’s First Reading, he is reaping what he has sowed. He did not correct his children, over indulged them, and ignored their faults, and now this has resulted in one of those very children coming to kill him and take over the kingdom. David excepts his fault and rather face ridicule, than in pride kill someone who is back mouthing him and cursing him. He is contrite to the fact, that this may be an act of God to correct/punish him.

In the Gospel reading, Jesus heals a man infested with evil spirits. The man is thankful, but not his town people. They see the act of God’s Mercy on the man, something marvelous. But they are not ready to accept the person through whom God is acting in their midst – Jesus. They have closed their minds to reality, facts and God. Or are they afraid of the demands of associating with God.

To know God is to know life and freedom. No God is the opposite.