Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily Thursday 25th Week in Ordinary Time

September 25, 2025, Luke 9:7-9

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092525.cfm

 Conscience And The Voice Of The Lord 

Sports have referees and umpires, like courts have judges. Judges make fair decisions based on facts, helping to prevent conflict and chaos, and ensuring a smooth life for teams and society.   

God gives everyone a conscience, like a compass guiding us through life’s moral wilderness. King Herod’s conscience kept him awake, with John the Baptist’s voice echoing in his heart, criticizing him for luring his brother’s wife, causing divorce, and marrying her. 

Cardinal Newman said conscience is the “closest and possible, sensible and experiential contact a human being can have with the voice of God.” It’s a wise, impartial judge, guiding us toward what is right, free from all emotions and self-interest.

It stands alone, calling out among other voices in our heads and from others. Like referees blow a whistle in a game, our conscience guides us in making moral choices and avoiding potential harm. It’s a divine gift, a personal referee in life’s game.

Remember, our conscience is greater. The last line of today’s gospel states, “Herod kept trying to see John.”  

Gospel Challenge:
Jesus, in his heart, appealed to Herod through conscience, urging repentance and belief in the Good News. Let us listen to the Lord’s appeal in our hearts. What is he saying to us today?  

Love Your Neighbor!

Father Rick Pilger, I.C.    
frrick@bscchurch.com