Fr. Rick’s Gospel Reflection for Thursday, 28th Week in Ordinary Time

October 16, 2025, Luke 11:47-54

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101625.cfm

The most humbling thing we can discover is …

Who could count how many times the scribes, Pharisees, and lawyers heard Jesus call people to repentance so they might believe in the Gospel? Probably as many times as he has called you and me to repentance and a deeper commitment to Him. Would it be that our minds and memories are so full of how others have treated us that it’s hard to believe God would act differently? 

We know in our minds the extraordinary place Jesus has in his heart for sinners and that he ultimately gave his life for us. But do we truly know his loyalty deep in our hearts, where we live and act every day?

How disappointing it must have been for Jesus when the leaders closed their hearts to His mercy and convinced themselves of their righteousness before God. The most humbling realization is that we cannot lift ourselves out of sin. We have no power or authority over sin in our lives. The joy of His mercy surpasses all our efforts. 

The Gospel Challenge:

May the gaze of his mercy fall on our souls and give us peace. Humility is not thinking less of ourselves. On the contrary, humility is thinking of ourselves less and God and others more. 

Take a moment to reflect on those who show you kindness. What can you learn from them?

Love Your Neighbor. 

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.

frrick@bscchurch.com