Father Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Thursday, 2nd Week in Lent

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 the moon. As he stepped onto its surface, he declared, “One small step for man. One giant leap for mankind.”
That line came to mind while reading the gospel of Lazarus and the rich man. Lazarus sat outside the rich man’s gate, and each day, the rich man would take a small step past him to continue his activities. Lazarus longed for crumbs from the rich man’s table but never received any. Nonetheless, these seemingly insignificant steps could have transformed the rich man’s life if he had noticed Lazarus and his hunger.
Unaware, he was drifting further from Lazarus with each step. After death, Lazarus found comfort in Abraham’s bosom (heaven), while the rich man was subjected to burning flames. He was confused about his location, whereas Lazarus appeared peaceful and far away.
After speaking with Fr. Abraham, he realized that each time he moved past Lazarus during his life, he had maintained the distance he intended to keep. This awareness of his actions became a regret he would carry forever, underscoring the significance of those we overlook yet need to see in our everyday lives.
Gospel Challenge:
Sometimes, we intentionally make an effort to recognize who is in front of us and offer them some of our time. Taking this initial step and viewing others with compassion can be a significant step toward heaven.
It’s not what we do that matters; it’s who we are with in that person, Jesus. Then what we do becomes an act of love for Him and them.
Love Your Neighbor:

Peace be with you.

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