11th Sunday in Ordinary Time A June 18, 2023

Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time A

June 18, 2023, Matthew 9:36-10:8

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/061823.cfm

There Is so Much to Do; I Need Help

Have you ever had those days when there was so much to do you wished you were two or three, or four people? Wouldn’t that be great to divide and conquer all your tasks?

Jesus faced the same problem when he saw the crowds needing so much healing, teaching, and friendship. The funny thing is that Jesus could divide and spread Himself around as he does in Holy Communion. But he didn’t divide and conquer that way. He respected his humanity.

He chose another way to reach out to anyone who needed Him. The pity he felt in his heart for the crowds spilled over into his disciples. The gospel says that Jesus “gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness.”

Jesus passed his authority over demons and illnesses to his disciples. But what caught my attention was that he did this when his heart was moved with pity for the crowds. He chose for his disciples down the centuries to have His compassion and authority over everyone who was lost and without a shepherd.

Healing is one of the charisms of the Holy Spirit St. Paul mentions in 1 Corinthians chapter twelve. But the love and compassion that Jesus felt in his heart for the crowds are in every one of his disciples, including you and me.

Gospel Challenge:

Pray sincerely, “Create a clean heart in me, O God, that the people you send me will experience your compassion and healing.” Remember, Jesus “gave [His disciples] authority over every disease and every illness.” Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Love the people you shepherd with the Heart of Jesus in you.

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC

www.bscchurch.com

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