18th Sunday in Ordinary Time (B)

In Exodus (cf. 16), we read about the Israelites grumbling against Moses, Aaron, and God for leading them out of Egypt’s abundance into the desert’s starvation. God provides them with manna daily, testing their trust in His continued provision. When the Israelites attempt to save manna for the next day, it spoils, teaching them to rely on God’s daily gifts.

This lesson of reliance brings to mind the Swedish word lagom, meaning “enough” or “just the right amount.” It reflects a life without anxiety, trusting one has what is needed without grasping for more. Psalm 78:25 tells us that God sent the Israelites food “in abundance.” God’s “enough” is true abundance, mirroring the prayer for “our daily bread.” We trust God to provide for us today and believe He will do so tomorrow.

The Gospel reveals that God’s ultimate gift is Himself: Jesus Christ, sent to save, not condemn; His body, broken for us; His heart, given so we never hunger again (cf. John 6:35). Paradoxically, “enough” means “more than you will ever need,” requiring us to be “renewed in the spirit” of our minds, as Paul writes to the Ephesians. Our old selves, corrupted by deceitful desires, yearn for more and more. Trusting God’s provision requires a new self recreated in Christ’s truth.

We often grumble like the Israelites, forgetting all that God has done for us. Despite our ingratitude and impatience, God provides what we need to keep going. Reflect on what keeps you going these days.

For those battling addiction, putting away the old self and embracing the new is a noble goal. While we may slip and need to start over, God’s mercy welcomes us back repeatedly. Our journey isn’t always straight, but we can show ourselves the same merciful kindness that God does. Don’t give up on yourself.

We constantly seek proof, even after witnessing miracles. Our human condition leads us from one momentary satisfaction to the next, always needing more. Jesus invites us to a life that continually fulfills and sustains us. Our experience of the Sunday Eucharist exemplifies this gift and sustenance that perpetually unfolds in our lives.

When Jesus says He is the Bread of Life, He offers Himself as nourishment for our hearts and souls. Filled with Jesus, we become rich and full, enabling us to be good disciples—happy, forgiving, caring, and close to God.