Monday of Holy Week, April 3, 2023

Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Monday of Holy Week, April 3, 2023
John 12:1-11 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040323.cfm

Tears that Heal

Here we are, Monday of Holy Week. Where did those five weeks of Lent go? Please, God, we are all following Jesus a little more than when we received our ashes. I am thinking beyond what we gave up for Lent. Consider our sacrifices to be a better person, spouse, parent, child, and even a better Catholic.

In today’s Gospel, Mary confessed her prostitution to Jesus as she poured an expensive oil over his feet. I can hear the words in her heart, “I want to walk with Jesus to His Cross and be with Him when He dies. This oil means nothing to me unless I pour it over His feet. So deep runs the sorrow in my heart for having offended you, Jesus. Your mercy saved me. I surrender everything to you.”

Judas, a thief, used people experiencing poverty as an excuse to get his hands on the money that oil was worth. His only sorrow was his empty purse, and he had no consideration for the Passion Jesus was about to undergo. The one who is forgiven little is the one who loves little.

In the 11th Century, St. Julian of Norwich once said, “We can only know we are truly loved when the person who knows the most awful disclosure of our darkest side still chooses to love us.” This is Jesus. Full of mercy. We don’t have to pour expensive oil over His feet. Our tears for causing Him so much suffering are more than enough. I pray for our peace of mind and heart.

Gospel Challenge:

If you haven’t already, please make a good confession Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday this week from 6 to 7 pm—no confessions after Wednesday.

IGNITE THE FIRE

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com

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