January 18, 2004, Thursday of the second week in ordinary time.

A reading from the first book of Samuel.

When David and Saul approached on David's return after slaying the Philistine,

women came out from each of the cities of Israel to meet King Saul, singing and dancing with

tambourines, joyful songs and cisterums. The women played and sang, Saul has slain his thousands,

and David his ten thousands. Saul was very angry and resentful of the song, for he thought,

They give David ten thousands, but only thousands to me.

All that remains for him is the kingship, and from that day on,

Saul was jealous of David.

Saul discussed his intention of killing David with his son Jonathan and with all his servants.

But Saul's son Jonathan, who was very fond of David, told him,

My father Saul is trying to kill you.

Therefore, please be on your guard tomorrow morning, get out of sight

and remain in hiding. I, however, will go out and stand beside my father in the countryside

where you are, and will speak to him about you. If I learn anything, I will let you know.

Jonathan then spoke well of David to his father Saul, saying to him,

Let not your majesty sin against his servant David,

for he has committed no offense against you, but has helped you very much by his deeds.

When he took his life in his hands and slew the Philistine, and the Lord brought about a great victory for all Israel through him,

you were glad to see it. Why then should you become guilty of shedding innocent blood

by killing David without cause?

Saul heeded Jonathan's plea and swore,

...