4 August, Wednesday – Praying with Faith

Aug 4 – Memorial for St. John Mary Vianney, priest

In his youth, John Mary Vianney (1786-1859) taught other children their prayers and catechism. As a priest, was assigned to a parish which suffered from very lax attendance. He began visiting his parishioners, especially the sick and poor, spent days in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, did penance for his parishioners, and led his people by example. Crowds came to hear him preach, and to make their reconciliation because of his reputation with penitents.

He has been declared patron saint for all priests.

• Patron Saint Index

Num 13:1-2,25-14:1,26-29,34-35
Mt 15:21-28

“Let your wish be granted.”

I used to think that my plans were the ones that God wants for me. However, I have realised that sometimes I am made to wait because God has a better plan for me. The readings of today remind us of the importance to stay close to God and to trust in Him.

The lack of faith and its consequences are seen clearly in the first reading where the spies actually spread the seeds of discouragement to the people. They ignored the words of Caleb and instead, felt that they could not enter into the Promised Land. This fear became a reality when they were forced to wander in the desert for forty years. This was certainly tough, but God wanted them to know that trust in Him is important.

God wants us to trust in Him. This requires us to build our foundation of faith in word and deed. As we continue into the mid-week, let us nourish our souls with Scripture and in prayer so as to ask God to speak to us in the silence of our hearts.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Nicholas Chia)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we pray for the strength to continue with our journey in faith and to always trust in you.

Thanksgiving: We give thanks for all who remind us