HOMILY 18TH MONDAY OF ORDINARY TIME: YEAR A
HOMILY 18TH MONDAY OF ORDINARY TIME: YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: FEAST OF SAINT MARIA JOHN VIANNEY
BY: Fr Deotacious Chikontwe SMA
Introduction
Today, we celebrate the life of a truly remarkable priest, St. John Vianney, the patron saint of all parish priests. As we reflect on the readings and the example of this saint, we can find a powerful message for our own lives, regardless of our vocation.
ALSO RECOMMENDED: HOMILY 18TH MONDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
From the First Reading
The first reading tells the story of the Israelites who, after being freed from slavery, refused to enter the Promised Land. They had seen God’s power, yet their faith faltered when faced with giants and fortified cities. They were so afraid that they forgot all the miracles God had performed and wanted to return to the misery of Egypt. This reading reminds us of how easy it is to lose faith and succumb to fear, even when God is leading the way.
From the Gospel Reading
In our Gospel reading, we encounter a different kind of faith—the bold, persistent faith of the Canaanite woman. She was an outsider, a Gentile, but she came to Jesus begging for help for her daughter. When Jesus initially seemed to ignore her, she didn’t give up. When he said he was sent only to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel,” she knelt before him and simply said, “Lord, help me.” Even when he used a difficult metaphor about children and dogs, she responded with a witty and humble reply, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Her faith was so powerful and unwavering that it moved Jesus to heal her daughter instantly.
The Faith of a Saint
Now let’s look at St. John Vianney. His life wasn’t easy. He struggled with his studies, and when he was finally ordained, he was sent to a forgotten parish in a small town called Ars. The people there were apathetic, their faith was weak, and the church was in disrepair. He could have given up, just like the Israelites who were afraid of the giants. He could have requested a different, easier parish. Instead, he dedicated himself completely to the people he was sent to serve.
What made St. John Vianney so effective was not his brilliant intellect or charismatic speaking. In fact, he was known for being a simple, humble man. What set him apart was his dedication, his perseverance, and his profound humility. He spent long hours in prayer and even longer hours in the confessional. He lived a life of austerity and self-denial, all for the sake of his flock. He didn’t just tell them to live holy lives; he showed them how.
A particularly powerful story about him is how, when a petition circulated to have him removed from the parish, he didn’t get angry or defensive. Instead, he signed his own name, saying, “They’re right.” This act of incredible humility teaches us that true greatness isn’t found in our own pride or self-importance but in our willingness to see ourselves through the eyes of God and to serve others, no matter the personal cost. He didn’t cling to his position; he clung to his ministry.
A Call to Follow
Today, St. John Vianney’s example is a challenge for all of us. He reminds us that our Christian calling is a call to be dedicated, humble, and faithful. For our priests, he is a model of what it means to be a shepherd who truly loves and cares for his flock. For all of us, he shows that a simple, unwavering faith can move mountains—just like the faith of the Canaanite woman.
So, let’s take a moment today to reflect on our own vocations. Where are we being called to show dedication and humility? Are we giving up on God’s plan because we’re afraid, like the Israelites? Or are we persevering with a bold and humble faith, like the Canaanite woman and St. John Vianney? Let us pray for our priests, and let us pray that we, too, may be faithful laborers in the Lord’s vineyard.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Happy Priests Day ! Happy feast to all the Parish Priests !
FOR A SIMILAR HOMILY, CLICK HERE >>>>>
Dear friends in Christ, Your support for the past 12years has kept us going. We ask you to support us with your donations to enable us to upset our “annual bills”. Our priests are willing to offer Holy Masses for your Private Intentions. May you Click on “Next”, or the “Donate” button to get started. God bless you!!!
