Saint Pius X, Pope
Thursday of week 20 in Ordinary Time
First reading – Judges 11:29-39
The tragic story of Jephthah’s vow reminds us of the danger of rash promises and the gravity of offering to God what He has not asked for. In his zeal, Jephthah vowed something extreme, and his lack of discernment led to sorrow and loss. God desires from us not reckless sacrifices but humble obedience, mercy, and love. Saint Pius X, whose feast we celebrate today, understood this truth deeply: his great reform of the Church’s liturgy and promotion of frequent Communion was rooted not in harsh burdens, but in opening the faithful to God’s grace and love in simple, trusting devotion. The contrast between Jephthah and Saint Pius X is striking, one imposed a vow born of fear and pride, the other led with a heart transformed by Christ. The lesson for us is clear: our relationship with God must be guided not by impulsive self-demands but by attentive listening, trust, and alignment with His will. Let’s reflect: Do I approach God with promises and demands shaped by my own impulses, or do I humbly seek His will with a heart ready to obey in love, as Saint Pius X did?
Don Giorgio