Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Saturday, 18th Week in Ordinary Time

August 9, 2025, Matthew 17:14-20

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080925.cfm

Lord, Have Pity on My Son.

People often ask me to pray for healing or some favor. I believe that Jesus is all-powerful and capable of doing anything. However, I’ve come to understand that simply appealing to His power and authority isn’t the same as having genuine faith.

Faith and friendship truly go hand in hand when it comes to Jesus. Think about how the man in the gospel approached Jesus to ask for healing for his son. He gently said, “Lord, have pity on my son.”

First, he recognizes Jesus as Lord, trusting that He has the power to do anything. Then, he sincerely appeals to our Lord’s compassion with those heartfelt words, “Have pity on my son.”

The mercy of Jesus truly lies at the heart of our Lord’s power, authority, and compassion. Picture a parent watching their child face a difficult challenge. Naturally, the parent has both the authority and the strength to assist, but it’s compassion that truly motivates them to step in and help the child through it.

Compassion comes from two Latin words—“com,” meaning “with,” and “passio,” meaning to suffer. Jesus carries all our pains and sufferings more than we do, showing his great love for us. When we reach out to our Lord’s compassion, no obstacle or mountain is too big to overcome. He is eager and ready to help us every step of the way.

Gospel Challenge: 

If there’s a mountain in your life or in the life of someone you care about, take a moment to pray with the father in the gospel, saying, “Lord, have pity on my son.” Remember, you are also called to be a friend of Jesus.

Peace everyone.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
pastor@bscchurch.com