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We hear the word of God in different ways and at different times. When we attend Holy Mass either on Sunday or weekdays, we hear at least three readings, first reading, the Psalm and the gospel. We hear the word of God when we read it at home, maybe during family prayer. We also read or hear the word of God during Bible studies. I have attended Bible studies with two different men’s groups since my arrival here. This is encouraging to have different groups setting aside their precious time to read, study and grow in their knowledge and understanding of the sacred word of the Lord. I would like to encourage more people to create time to read, study and pray.

Joshua the servant of the Lord gathered the people of Israel, elders and leaders and urged them saying, “Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve him completely and sincerely… if it does not, please you to serve the Lord decide today whom you will serve, the gods your fathers served…As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

Sometimes when we eat food, we make comments like the food is great, rich or delicious. The scriptural readings for our liturgy today are indeed very rich. They have so much to teach us.

Today is the 19th Sunday of ordinary time. Our first reading tells us about the journey of Elijah the servant of God. He went a day’s journey in the desert. He prayed for death saying, “This is enough, O Lord! Take my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” What is happening here with the great servant of the Lord. Elijah? Elijah has just finished his battle with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Jezebel wanted to kill him and he is running for his life. Exhausted in his flight, he cried to God. He poured out his heart to the Lord. How do we pray? Like Elijah, let's tell the Lord the truth and not try to pretend. God knows the depth of our hearts. If you need his mercy, tell him the truth of your sin, if you need his favor or special need, tell him. But do so in faith and trust.

“The whole Israelite community grumbled against Moses and by Aaron…Would that we had died at the Lord’s hand…we sat by our fleshpots and ate our fill of bread!” The people of Israel complained against Moses the servant of God that they had no food to eat and would prefer their condition in Egypt.