The first reading from the letter of James 4:1-10 and the gospel reading from Mark 9:30-37 talk about the desires of human persons and the desires of God.

I desire the good things in life. But unless I can align my desires with God’s, my desires will not lead me to the joy and happiness God desires. James says, “You do not possess because you do not ask. You ask but do not receive because you asked wrongly to spend it on your passions.” I have found that when I seek my desires for selfish reasons, it never leads to happiness. God eventually makes his desires my desires. I have learned over my lifetime to trust him and that he always wants my happiness.

Comparing the saint for today, Saint Eugene de Mazenod, to Saint Peter Julian Eymard, I found they lived in France at about the same time: Eugene in Marseille and Peter Julian in Paris. Eugene was from a wealthy family, and Peter Julian was from a humble background. Both fondly loved the Blessed Mother. Both founded new congregations approved by Pius IX: Eugene, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, Peter Julian, the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament. Both had many challenges but were led to similar goals, traveling different paths. It seems that God has a unique path for each of us.

Saint Peter Julian Eymard reminds us: Observe carefully how divine Providence guides you. God does everything, organizes everything, foresees everything to lead you to him. (CO 100 The Eucharistic Life According to Saint Peter Julian Eymard, page 67) Abide In the House of God’s divine fatherly goodness, like a child who knows nothing, does nothing, damages everything, but dwells in this gentle kindness. (CO 1538, Counsels for Spiritual Life, page 127).

Let Us Pray:

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. Enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit, and they will be created. And you will renew the face of the earth. (Prayer from our Tradition)