Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs (Memorial)

. . . seated on the throne of his father . . . , with his sovereignty firmly established. 

In today’s first reading (1 Kings 2:12), King David gives Solomon counsel on how to be a good ruler and then hands over the kingship to him. The backstory, however, isn’t so neat and tidy. The history of Saul, David, and Solomon is a sometimes sordid tale of palace intrigue, dynastic conflict, and foreign wars. David’s own sons fought against each other, and one even rebelled against David. So when David ordered a public procession, with Solomon riding on David’s own royal mule to shouts of “Long live the king!” he was making it clear that his sovereignty was officially passing to Solomon.

Sovereignty means the ability to exercise authority freely and without external control. For Solomon, this meant that he could rule without danger of conflicts within his court or threats from other countries. For the people of Israel, Solomon’s sovereign rule would bring them a season of peace and protection.

All of this can help us understand something about God’s rule and our relationship with him. Although human rulers often establish their authority through intrigue and keep it through power plays, God’s way is different. He invites us to come under his rule. He waits for us to choose to accept his sovereignty. So while Jesus truly is Lord of all creation, he becomes the Lord of our hearts only as we allow him to guide our thoughts and actions—as we welcome him on the “throne” of our lives.

Imagine a throne in the center of a big circle, and within that circle are all the many aspects of your life: your family, your job, your possessions, your free time, your hopes and dreams, and your plans for the future. Imagine that in the course of your day, all of these things move closer and further away from that throne. Sometimes, one of them even occupies that place of authority.

Now, where is Jesus in this picture? Is he vying with your possessions for a crack at the throne? Or your job or your favorite hobby? What one thing can you do today to help clear the path so that he can sit on that throne and rule you with his love and tender mercy?

“Jesus, sit on the throne of my life! Help me to trust you more each day.”

(Psalm) 1 Chronicles 29:10-12
Mark 6:7-13