Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Tuesday 20th Week in Ordinary Time

August 19, 2025, Matthew 19:23-30 
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081925.cfm

God’s Lottery

One of the greatest joys of my priesthood is the daily opportunities to make a positive difference in people’s lives. The joy that comes from serving others through the gifts of the Lord far outweighs any sorrows or sadness that may come my way. It is in these moments that I feel the most alive, and the presence of Jesus is most noticeable. It is when I lose sight of this joy and focus only on myself that I feel distant from the Lord.

I understand why Jesus said it will be hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God. Unfortunately, when the word rich comes up, we think of people with more money than they know what to do with. I am learning that when I am rich in myself and what I want, I leave the Presence of the Lord in my heart.

So, the word “rich” in the gospel refers to people who think they earned their wealth through their abilities and hard work. Therefore, they give little or no credit to God for their gifts. They can use their wealth as they please; a majority, if not all, stays in their pockets. As a result, their hearts become hardened as they depend on themselves for everything, never turning to God and His providential care. 

Does the wealthiest person in the world possess more than God, who owns all creation? The answer is clear: the more we rely on God, the more He shapes our hearts to be like His. As a result, we never truly lose anything we give to others for His sake. It is His nature to give generously, providing us with even more so that His riches can benefit many in need. 

Gospel Challenge: 

Sisters and brothers, pray to be a responsible steward of everything God has entrusted to you. This is not a burden, but a path to complete joy. When we recognize that all we have is a gift from God, and we use it to serve others, our joy is boundless.

Love Your Neighbor!

Father Rick Pilger, I.C. 

 pastor@bscchurch.com