Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Wednesday, 24th Week in Ordinary Time

September 17, 2025, Luke 7: 31-35

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/091725.cfm

Dancing with Jesus.

Presidential campaigns can seem endless, with candidates focusing more on criticizing each other than on their own policies.

The scribes and Pharisees refused to engage with either John the Baptist or Jesus. They rejected John’s austere call to repentance and also criticized Jesus for being too accepting, sharing meals with sinners.

We can say that scribes and Pharisees were independent from God and everybody else. When Jesus forgives sinners, they would not dance because they refused to see their sinfulness and ask God’s forgiveness. Nor could they weep because they didn’t cry their hearts out for offending God and people. They were utterly indifferent to God and His ways of saving us in Jesus.

It is a joy to rejoice like the angels in heaven when even one person returns to God in repentance. Yet, it can be challenging to show compassion when our own hearts feel burdened or closed. Opening ourselves to others makes shared joy possible.

Gospel Challenge:  

Let us approach Jesus with hope, trusting in His compassion through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and begin our joyful dance with Him. Jesus reminds us that all who recognize their needs are welcome. This openness enables us to share compassion with others on their own journeys as well.

Finally, let us pray for Charlie Kirk, his family, and our nation, that we will all follow his advice and counsel, listen to each other, agree to disagree with the utmost respect, and always put people above our views on any matter. May he rest in the peace of the Lord.

Love Your Neighbor!  

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.  

Pastor@bscchurch.com