Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Tuesday, 6th Week in Ordinary Time

February 17, 2026, Mark 8:14-21
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021726.cfm

Do We Get It?

My Dad was a contractor for 45 years. He built churches and mansions and remodeled
homes. He could make anything from wood, a hammer, and some nails. Dad would say,
“Son, do anything right the first time, and you will never have to go back and do it over.”
Throughout those 45 years, Dad never received a single callback about his work or the
materials he used.
I didn’t really grasp how important that lesson was until many years later. It’s quite
similar to what Jesus went through with the disciples: “How long have I been with you,
and you do not understand.”
God speaks to us through the events in our lives, and He hopes we’ll understand what
He’s saying. Just as the apostles did, we sometimes miss His message because we’re
not always tuned to the right frequency. His station is right in our hearts, and everything
He does is motivated by His love for us. He’s like a loving Father, eager to do
everything for His children and provide for all their needs.
However, some children might find it difficult to feel connected and fully accept their
Father’s love. So, how can we tune into God? The signal He uses is love that’s selfless
and sacrificial. He lovingly offers His caring presence so we can look out for one
another and grow together.
So, tune your heart to the needs of others around you. You will experience a profound
sense of fulfillment and joy when you see all the ways He works through you and
appreciate all He does with great affection. Joy will burst in your heart when you see
people’s lives change because you loved them.
Gospel Challenge:
 Like my Dad said, “Son, anything you do, do it right the first time, and you will never
have to go back and do it over.” The Pharisees didn’t get it. Do we?
Love Your Neighbor:
 Let us pray that all baptized Catholics remain faithful to Jesus at every Holy Mass,
living out His love in our daily lives. 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