Jesus assures us in John’s Gospel, “You will face trials in this world. But be strong,” He says, “I have conquered the world.” Regrettably, some individuals in our culture take offense if we openly express our faith in Jesus. It’s a sensitive topic for some. And their influence is most pronounced in the media. Consequently, a few deface churches, and believers in other nations endure torture and martyrdom for their faith.
Jesus warns us: I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but can do no more after that. I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who, after killing, has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be scared of that one.
Notice, He calls us friends. Once again, Jesus uses powerful words to awaken us and help us grasp the importance of a personal bond with Him. His love is deeply rooted within us, and He desires everyone to recognize how cherished we are in His eyes.
The last thing He said on this earth before He ascended into heaven was, “Go out to the whole world and proclaim the Good News.”
The Gospel Challenge:
What good news can you share with someone? Some people attribute their fortune to chance. When something positive happens, they say, “I got lucky.” Those in a relationship with Jesus proclaim, “Thank you, Lord, for the blessing.” Before you share something, acknowledge how blessed you are —count your blessings —and share that feeling with the Lord in prayer.
March 9, 2026, Luke 4:24-30 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030926.cfm Homecoming. When I returned home from my studies in England, my family warmly greeted me at the airport terminal.
March 7, 2026, Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030726.cfm Home at Last. How heart-wrenching it is to stray from our Father’s loving embrace. Like the younger son
March 6, 2026, Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030626.cfm Someone is Missing. Mother Teresa recounts a story about a young drug addict she and her sisters met
March 20, 2025, Luke 16:19-31 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030526.cfm One Small Step. One Giant Leap. On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on
Fr. Rick’s Gospel Reflection for Friday, 28th Week in Ordinary Time
October 17 2025, 2025, Luke 11:47-54
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101725.cfm
The pressure of our culture
Jesus assures us in John’s Gospel, “You will face trials in this world. But be strong,” He says, “I have conquered the world.” Regrettably, some individuals in our culture take offense if we openly express our faith in Jesus. It’s a sensitive topic for some. And their influence is most pronounced in the media. Consequently, a few deface churches, and believers in other nations endure torture and martyrdom for their faith.
Jesus warns us: I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but can do no more after that. I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who, after killing, has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be scared of that one.
Notice, He calls us friends. Once again, Jesus uses powerful words to awaken us and help us grasp the importance of a personal bond with Him. His love is deeply rooted within us, and He desires everyone to recognize how cherished we are in His eyes.
The last thing He said on this earth before He ascended into heaven was, “Go out to the whole world and proclaim the Good News.”
The Gospel Challenge:
What good news can you share with someone? Some people attribute their fortune to chance. When something positive happens, they say, “I got lucky.” Those in a relationship with Jesus proclaim, “Thank you, Lord, for the blessing.” Before you share something, acknowledge how blessed you are —count your blessings —and share that feeling with the Lord in prayer.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
frrick@bscchurch.com
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