We celebrate today, the Memorial of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, abbot and doctor of the Church. St. Bernard (1090-1153) was born near Dijon and died in Clairvaux, France. He was of a noble family and received a careful education in his youth. With his father, brother, and thirty noblemen, he entered the Benedictine monastery of Citeaux. Two years later, he led a group of monks to establish a house at Clairvaux and became the abbot. The monastic rule that he perfected at Clairvaux became the model for 163 monasteries of the Cistercian reform. He was a theologian, poet, orator, and writer and attended the Second Lateran Council. He is considered the last of the Fathers of the Church.

Today's readings are summarized in God's word: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, my ways are not your ways" (Is. 55:8). When our own way becomes primary in our relationship with God instead of being in tandem with the will of God, our life then will be filled with pain and disappointment.

The first reading (Judges 9: 6-15) describes how some of the Israelites seek to have a king like their neighbours, but this is not what God wants for them at this time. Such a decision can only bring hard times for the people. The Israelites, in their stubbornness, continuously suffered humiliation because of their rejection of God as their king. Do you try hard to mould God in your image?

Jesus, in the gospel (Matt. 20: 1-16), teaches about God's mercy and compassion with the parable of the vineyard owner who employs labourers at different times of the day but pays them all the same day's wage. Dear friends, in our relationship with God, we become emotionally hurt only when we expect God to do our will instead of being open to God's will. God seems unfair at times. Yes! God doesn't apply fairness but mercy. In fairness, no one is worthy of God's favours.

Are you still annoyed with God for not dancing to the tune of your heart's desire? I pray that as we journey in life today, we will always envision a bigger picture in life where God is directing our affairs. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jer 29: 11). As we do our part, may we trustfully lean on the will of God. Have a trust-full day!