Father Rick’s Gospel Reflection for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time C

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB Daily Bible Readings, Podcast Audio and Videos and Prayers brought to you by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.bible.usccb.org

 We have but one Lord, Jesus Christ.

Life is filled with challenges every day, but it’s inspiring to reflect on Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel: “The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones.”

It reminds us of the trust God has in us and inspires us to use our many talents to help and serve others. Isn’t it reassuring to recall that we’re entrusted with so much, and that our small efforts, such as a kind word, a helping hand, or a charitable donation, can have a significant impact on the world?

He has given us time to deepen our relationship with Him and with the people He puts in our lives. He has also given us talents and treasures to care for others, and through that, we find fulfillment in our communion with the Lord and those we serve. “Whatever you do for others, you do for Me.”

Our collective stewardship over the past eight years has been nothing short of remarkable. Together, we have overcome many significant challenges, including replacing the church water pipes, repairing and furnishing five school classrooms, our church chapel, the rectory offices, and installing three new roofs. This is a testament to our faith and commitment to our community.

These are just a few of the larger matters that Jesus entrusted to us, a testament to our trustworthiness with the smaller matters of responsible stewardship toward our families and the needs of those around us. Each of us plays a crucial role in the progress of our community.

It is your unwavering faith and love for God and His people that give us great hope as we face what has been a shock to our nation and our world. Your commitment to embodying Christ’s love is a beacon of light in these challenging times.

With deep compassion, our hearts and prayers embrace all those recently affected by senseless shootings. The pain of loss weighs heavily on many—whether well-known, like Charlie Kirk (who is known around the world), or less known, like the two students from Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis (August 27); the three police officers in York County, Pennsylvania (September 17); and the two teenagers hurt at Evergreen High School, Colorado (September 10).

In these moments of sorrow, let us condemn violence in all its forms and respond with the unconditional love Christ calls us to embody. This love is shown through forgiveness, understanding, and support for those affected. We hold close in prayer the souls of the victims, their grieving families, and everyone in our communities touched by tragedy. Inspired by Jesus’ teachings, we also lift in prayer those who have caused harm, asking that they find repentance, healing, and peace. 

Let us bow our heads and seek comfort in prayer.

“Lord Jesus, have mercy on our people, for many things are beyond our control. Help us trust in your mercy and saving grace. The small acts of kindness we serve each other every day bring a little more of your love and saving grace into this world. All things are possible with you.

May we find peace and strength in His grace during this time of grief for all victims of violence. We remember their families and loved ones in our prayer to You, through Christ our Lord, Amen.