HOMILY OF MONDAY IN THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
Numbers 11:4-15, Matthew 14:13-21
THEME: THE DANGER OF LIVING IN THE PAST
One of the challenges we face as humans is truly appreciating the present moment, despite its difficulties and challenges. We often find joy in the novelty of the present, but as our initial excitement fades, we can be tempted to romanticize the past, even if we failed to fully appreciate it when it was our present.
In our first reading, “The sons of Israel began to wail, ‘Who will give us meat to eat?’ they said. ‘Think of the fish we used to eat free in Egypt, the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic! Here we are wasting away, stripped of everything; there is nothing but manna for us to look at!”
No matter who we are, when others praise us or see us as their favorite today, it is essential not to forget that human enthusiasm is not everlasting. It takes sound mind to retains a sense of appreciation.
Forward-looking mindset builds resilience in us, and our focus on our future goals cannot fail us if we have the right compass. God is our Director. He has plans for us and he is taking us somewhere.
However, learning to appreciate the moment, with its thorns and thistles remain our common human dilemma. Let us savor and embrace the present with mindfulness and gratitude, rather than being captivated by the allure of an idealized past.
May we remain steadfast on the path the Lord has traced for us. Amen.
