Readings: Numbers 11:4-15, Ps. 81:12-17, Matthew 14:13-21
“Now the rabble among them had a strong craving; and the people of Israel also wept again, and said, ‘O that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt for nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic, but now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing but this manna to look at.” (Numbers 11:4-6)
The Israelites had just been freed from slavery, but successive episodes of complaints against God and acts of unfaithfulness marred their journey. They complained about food, and God gave them manna and quails. In today’s first reading, they grumbled for meat. The same people who cried to God to free them from slavery in Egypt began to reminisce about the fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic they had. Instead of counting their blessings, they revolted by “weeping throughout their families, every man at the door of his tent; and the anger of the Lord blazed hotly.” (Numbers 11:10)
God is not happy with us when, instead of thanking Him, we complain with bitterness. Do you know that some prayers annoy God? Jesus was teaching one day, and a man said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.” Jesus answered, “Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?” (Luke 12:13-14). In other words, “How does that concern me?”
Let us examine our conscience. Have I become ungrateful? Have my prayers become avenues to complain against God? Do I recognise the fact that I am only a pilgrim on earth? Like the Israelites, we are on a journey to our homeland (the bliss of heaven), and nothing in this world can satisfy us. Regardless of how wealthy you are, without contentment, you are poor. On the other hand, no matter how little you have, as long as you are grateful, you are rich.
Instead of complaining, learn to give thanks to God. After curing the ten lepers and only one returned to give thanks, Jesus asked, “Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they?” (Luke 17:17). St. Paul says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19)
When the news of the gruesome death of John the Baptist came to Jesus, He withdrew to a quiet place alone. People noticed where He was going and followed Him. Matthew says, “He had compassion on them and healed their sick…” How did Jesus attend to the great crowd despite being in a state of mourning? Jesus chose to focus on bringing joy to people, rather than being distracted by pain.
Jesus did not transfer aggression. If we are not careful, we could transfer aggression to God while praying, and we may even blame God for our problems. Contentment is choosing gratitude over bitterness, thanksgiving over complaint, and trust over anger. To be content is to understand that no matter how bad things may be for you now, God knows what He is doing.
St. John Vianney was born on May 8, 1786, in Dardilly, France, during the French Revolution. Growing up in a time of strong anti-clericalism, he admired the bravery of secret priests and received his religious education discreetly. At 20, John began his journey toward the priesthood but was interrupted when he was drafted into Napoleon Bonaparte’s army. Falling ill, he had an unexpected encounter that led him to live with deserters for over a year. Following an amnesty in 1810, he returned to his studies and was ordained in 1815, starting his ministry in Ars.
In Ars, John found a parish that had grown distant from its faith. He devoted himself to revitalising the spiritual life of his congregation, spending long hours in confession and passionately preaching against the vices of the time. His dedication and holiness became well-known, attracting thousands of pilgrims to Ars seeking his counsel. He had a special devotion to St. Philomena, whom he credited with miraculous interventions. Despite opportunities to leave Ars for a monastic life, John remained steadfast in his commitment to his parish until his death on August 4, 1859. His unwavering faith and generosity led to his canonisation as a saint on May 31, 1925.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach us to be grateful even when things are rough. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint John Mary Vianney, Priest. Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: Numbers 11:4-15, Ps. 81:12-17, Matthew 14:13-21)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu