The word “useless” in the Gospel stands out to me today. When I write an article like this for you, I ask someone to read it because I don’t see my mistakes. Some words or phrases I write don’t make sense. They are useless to the reader.
It makes me think about how many of my actions and behaviors are helpful to me but useless to Jesus. There are times when I need to take a moment to reflect on myself and see what is motivating my thoughts and decisions.
The parable speaks to me and you, too—please, God— that time is of the essence. My heart needs to produce the good fruit of Jesus’ heart today. He is looking for His fruit of patience, kindness, and mercy in me, just like the owner was looking for figs on his tree. I’d better pay attention.
The Gospel Challenge:
Reflect on a time when things became tense with someone. All they needed was a little patience for you to listen and understand. Or recall an experience when someone sought your attention because you were important to them. But sadly, something else drew your focus away.
Picture that scene with Jesus. Notice what’s different when you put people before your tasks. The gardener was given an extra year to care for the fig tree and help it produce good fruit. Make good use of the Lord’s patience with you. You’ll be amazed at how much things can improve.
January 25, 2026 Matthew 4:12-23 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012526.cfm What Can I Proclaim? When you hear the words “Proclaim the Gospel,” it’s natural to feel like it’s a
January 24, 2026, Mark 3:20-21 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012426.cfm Life Out of Bounds? A while back, speakers were innovative in thinking “out of the box.” The “box”
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Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Reflection for Saturday
October 25, 2025, Luke 13:1-9
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102525.cfm
Is this useless or useful? For whom?
The word “useless” in the Gospel stands out to me today. When I write an article like this for you, I ask someone to read it because I don’t see my mistakes. Some words or phrases I write don’t make sense. They are useless to the reader.
It makes me think about how many of my actions and behaviors are helpful to me but useless to Jesus. There are times when I need to take a moment to reflect on myself and see what is motivating my thoughts and decisions.
The parable speaks to me and you, too—please, God— that time is of the essence. My heart needs to produce the good fruit of Jesus’ heart today. He is looking for His fruit of patience, kindness, and mercy in me, just like the owner was looking for figs on his tree. I’d better pay attention.
The Gospel Challenge:
Reflect on a time when things became tense with someone. All they needed was a little patience for you to listen and understand. Or recall an experience when someone sought your attention because you were important to them. But sadly, something else drew your focus away.
Picture that scene with Jesus. Notice what’s different when you put people before your tasks. The gardener was given an extra year to care for the fig tree and help it produce good fruit. Make good use of the Lord’s patience with you. You’ll be amazed at how much things can improve.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
www.bscchurch.com
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