January 22, 2006.

Day of Prayer for the legal protection of unborn children.

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 sistrums.

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.

...