February 21, 2026, Luke 5:27-32
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022126.cfm
Our Friend Levi (Matthew).
Have you ever struggled with a problem, searching for an answer, only to find that nothing came? The more you thought, the more frustrating it became. Eventually, you gave up and moved on. Then suddenly, the solution became clear, restoring your confidence and easing frustration.
Levi, the man Jesus named Matthew, was sitting at his tax booth collecting money from people. Naturally, he was hated, but he didn’t mind because he enjoyed a comfortable life. Suddenly, Jesus appeared and said just two words: “Follow Me.” That moment transformed Levi’s life forever.
Matthew wasn’t engaged in deep prayer, acts of mercy, or preaching on a street corner. Instead, he was going about his day, extorting money. He was stealing from the poor to improve his own position. Jesus caught him in the act, in a sense. Matthew’s heart was truly impoverished, dirt poor. The innocence in Jesus’ presence made him realize this. His heart was even poorer than those begging for food after leaving his tax booth.
But something unusual occurred. Matthew did not feel guilty or worthless. Instead, he was filled with so much love that it felt as if no one else existed. He found this feeling strange. All the money and friends at the other tables no longer mattered to him. Unable to stay, Matthew pushed aside the money table and walked away with Jesus. This occurred while he was extorting.
Gospel Challenge:
Don’t be surprised if a gentle inner voice prompts you when you’re about to do something that offends God. Jesus approaches your table, loving you with His compassionate, merciful heart. Pay attention to those tender words, “Follow Me.” Move away from that table and walk alongside Jesus on the path.
Love Your Neighbor:
Please join me in praying that all baptized Catholics be faithful to Jesus in 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
Father Rick’s Three Minute Homily for Saturday after Ash Wednesday
February 21, 2026, Luke 5:27-32
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022126.cfm
Our Friend Levi (Matthew).
Have you ever struggled with a problem, searching for an answer, only to find that nothing came? The more you thought, the more frustrating it became. Eventually, you gave up and moved on. Then suddenly, the solution became clear, restoring your confidence and easing frustration.
Levi, the man Jesus named Matthew, was sitting at his tax booth collecting money from people. Naturally, he was hated, but he didn’t mind because he enjoyed a comfortable life. Suddenly, Jesus appeared and said just two words: “Follow Me.” That moment transformed Levi’s life forever.
Matthew wasn’t engaged in deep prayer, acts of mercy, or preaching on a street corner. Instead, he was going about his day, extorting money. He was stealing from the poor to improve his own position. Jesus caught him in the act, in a sense. Matthew’s heart was truly impoverished, dirt poor. The innocence in Jesus’ presence made him realize this. His heart was even poorer than those begging for food after leaving his tax booth.
But something unusual occurred. Matthew did not feel guilty or worthless. Instead, he was filled with so much love that it felt as if no one else existed. He found this feeling strange. All the money and friends at the other tables no longer mattered to him. Unable to stay, Matthew pushed aside the money table and walked away with Jesus. This occurred while he was extorting.
Gospel Challenge:
Don’t be surprised if a gentle inner voice prompts you when you’re about to do something that offends God. Jesus approaches your table, loving you with His compassionate, merciful heart. Pay attention to those tender words, “Follow Me.” Move away from that table and walk alongside Jesus on the path.
Love Your Neighbor:
Please join me in praying that all baptized Catholics be faithful to Jesus in 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
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