From Living Faith Daily Catholic Devotions (Jan/Feb/Mar 2026)

Lenten Weekday

Numbers 21:4-9 + Psalm 102:2, 16-21 + John 8:21-30

Offering Thanks, No Matter What

But with their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses… Numbers 21:4-5

Even though God had already led the Israelites out of slavery, even though God had already parted the Red Sea, saving them from Pharaoh’s army, even though God had already provided manna to fill their growling stomachs in the desert, the people grumbled and whined and abandoned the practice of gratitude. Sometimes we, too, can become so focused on what we don’t have that we forget the unfailing gifts and tender core of the Holy One.

Like the people of Israel who later recounted God’s goodness to them in a litany of grateful remembrance during the Passover meal, may we also work with grace to return to the practice of gratitude, giving thanks for the Holy One’s accompaniment of us always.

St. Oscar Romero, cultivate in us a grateful heart.

□ Sr. Chris Koellhoffer, I.H.M. (Sr. Chris is an author and spiritual guide who offers retreats internationally. Visit her at ChrisKoellhofferIHM.org).