Saint John Mary Vianney, Priest
Monday of week 18 in Ordinary Time
First reading: Numbers 11:4-15
Today’s reading from Numbers reveals the human tendency to focus on what is lacking rather than on the gifts already given by God. The Israelites, despite having been freed from slavery and sustained by manna from heaven, wail for meat, blinded by dissatisfaction and desire. In contrast, on this feast of Saint John Mary Vianney, we are reminded of a deeper theological truth: grace is always sufficient because God Himself is our portion. Saint John Vianney, renowned for his humility and tireless ministry of reconciliation, lived not by lamenting what was absent but by rejoicing in the ever-present gift of Christ’s forgiving love. His life teaches us that when we root ourselves in God’s grace, our restless cravings are quieted, and we see that divine mercy is our true sustenance. This movement from lamentation to gratitude reflects the heart of Christian theology: salvation is not about what we lack, but about receiving and living in the abundant grace already poured out in Christ, who meets every hunger of the soul. Let’s reflect: Do I focus more on what I feel is missing in my life, or do I recognize and give thanks for the abundant grace and forgiving love of Christ that is already present?
Don Giorgio