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

September 20, 2025, Luke 8:4-15

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092025.cfm   

Everything is Grace

 Some experiences stay with you forever. I had one such moment in the seminary with a professor, Fr. Eric Doyle. He called me into his office for a final oral exam on the doctrine of grace. I sat in a chair facing him. He held my hands and looked into my eyes. He said, “Rick, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is of supereminent importance.” Then he added, “Rick, everything is grace.” That was our final exam.  

As I reflected on today’s gospel, the Parable of the Sower, I thought back to this experience. We’re like the ground where our Father sows His seed, which is the Word, Jesus. This relationship we have with the Lord is His doing, not ours. The ground, even if it’s fertile, can’t do anything on its own – it’s just there.    

But consider what happens when the Father brings His Son into a relationship with us. The results are outstanding after the growth period, when we are weeded, watered, and nourished. What a blessing it is to be the fertile ground He chooses.    

Even if we feel like we’re on shaky ground or like thorns are blocking our way, remember that beneath all the chaos, there is fertile ground. The Lord’s discipline truly is the saving power of Jesus. He comes with the Cross as a plow, uprooting everything that hinders His love for us. If we face that Cross, don’t try to resist it. Embrace it with courage and hope.

Gospel Challenge:   

Take heart. Embrace it with love. The Sower will allow His Son to suffer alongside us until He finds the fertile ground. Then, we’ll instinctively recognize He’s with us in every moment, and every moment is a gift, even the breath we take.  

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.   

frrick@bscchurch.com