2 Sam 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13 / Mark 5:1-20
Just as every thing that happens has a reason, every action also has a reason.
And the person behind the action has a reason for doing so.
The reason or reasons as to why a person does a particular action may or may not be obvious.
In the 1st reading, the reason why Absalom plotted against his father David could be that he was ambitious and wanted to be king.
The reason why Shimei cursed David could be that since he was of the clan of Saul's family, he wanted to show his disgust against David.
And why David did not retaliate could be because he knew he had done wrong and he rather submit to the Lord humbly than to take things into his own hands.
In the gospel, the reason why the man had an unclean spirit in him was unknown and he was causing a terrifying disturbance.
We too have reasons for doing what we did or intend to do.
Let us place our reasons and intentions before the Lord in prayer and ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit to help us discern.
Then whatever we do, it will be for the glory of God and for the good of others.