Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Monday 3rd Week in Ordinary Time

January 27, 2025, Mark 3:22-30

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012626.cfm

 

Jesus, the Stronger One, who breaks all illusions, is our protector and guide in the face of deceit.

“Hey Eve, if you eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you’ll become like God!” What a clever trick! Such a sneaky deception! “For God knows that when you eat from it, your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

These are the words Satan spoke to Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:5). God understood that she and Adam (including us) would gain knowledge of good and evil. Satan didn’t suggest that this knowing was merely intellectual; rather, knowing good and evil would be a part of all of life’s experiences.  

Evil can’t be in the same space as goodness; it often resorts to desperate measures or makes things up to appear better. We often see this as moral relativism or trying to make everything fit our own view, even if it means harming others. 

The scribes in the gospel are interpreting Jesus in a way that reflects their own blinded hearts. They say, “He is possessed by Beelzebul, the prince of demons.” These words show how they cannot recognize the goodness and truth in Jesus. 

It’s pretty amusing how silly it can be when assumptions are just illusions that can cause separation if we don’t look into them. Instead of jumping to conclusions, let’s show genuine respect and stay humble in our pursuit of the truth. Doing so makes our interactions more positive and meaningful.

Gospel Challenge: When someone rubs us the wrong way, it’s often helpful to respond with a kind and understanding conversation. Remember, The Strong One, Jesus, Who humbled Himself to share in all we experience, is always watching over you and won’t let any evil take control of your house (you).  

Who do we know who will genuinely benefit from a caring, healthy chat? It takes a little courage and trust—things that Jesus loves when we show. With just that, He can transform anything difficult into pure joy. Let’s see just how powerful Jesus can be working through you! 

Love Your Neighbor: Please join me in praying that all baptized Catholics be faithful to Jesus at the Holy Mass every weekend. Hail Mary, full of grace…

Mother Mary, “I am yours now and forever. Through you and with you, I always want to belong completely to Jesus.” The Surrender Novena – InHeartland. https://inheartland.com/pages/the-surrender-novena

Peace be with you.

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C. pastor@bscchurch.com