Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Wednesday, 23rd Week in Ordinary Time

September 11, 2024, Luke 6:20-26   
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/091124.cfm

Poor, Hungry, Weeping, Hated, And Persecuted – But Blessed.

What a challenge Jesus presents to us! A willingness to be poor, hungry, weeping, hated, and persecuted is not very appealing: Unless your heart is overcome with so much love, you can’t help yourself. How many parents sacrifice so much to send their children to Catholic school and later to college? It takes some calculation, but they know their children are worth the struggle. 

Students and athletes make similar sacrifices in the classroom and on the field. Having a goal is a great motivation to accomplish something in this world. We can see results when we sacrifice for education, sports, and otherworldly goals. 

Living as a disciple of the Lord every day also calls for sacrifices. Feeling the poverty of someone, weeping for someone who lost a loved one, and being willing to be hated and persecuted for our faith are great sacrifices. But how much are we willing to give to a poor person? How much time will we spend with someone who is sorrowful and has lost someone precious? How much time are we willing to give Jesus in worship, prayer, and study to grow in our love for him daily? 

Our beloved Founder, Blessed Antoino Rosmini, calls this justice, giving God and anyone what is their due. We grow in justice when we do make these sacrifices. I find it takes the sting out of the sacrifice. Our joy is a fruit of being more pleasing to God.

Gospel Challenge:

Being a disciple of Jesus is all grace; there’s only one place we can get it: being with the Lord daily. Spend some precious time with Him. Only God can change our hearts and what they value. 

IGNITE THE FIRE!  

Father Rick Pilger, I.C.  
pastor@bscchurch.com