Father Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Thursday, 3rd Week in Lent

March 12, 2026, Luke 11:14-23
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031226.cfm

The Finger of God?

“If it’s by the finger of God that I cast out demons…” This phrase, ‘the finger of God,’ is a
vivid way to portray divine power at work. It beautifully emphasizes God’s authority and
sovereignty. Think about how much we can truly do with just our little finger? Honestly,
not much! I remember trying to open a new jar of Metamucil and struggling to get my
little finger to grip the lid.
And yet, Jesus assures us that all He needs is faith and trust to dispel the power of
Satan from our lives. He didn’t have to endure His Passion, nor did He have to die in the
way He did, but His love and sacrifice show His incredible commitment to us.
He trusted us completely, knowing we wouldn’t have any reason to withhold anything
from him. Trusting Jesus means giving him our whole selves rather than just part of
ourselves. His strong confidence in us inspires us to offer our very best.
A man named Ananias, however, sold a piece of property with his wife, Sapphira. He
retained for himself, with his wife’s knowledge, some of the purchase price, took the
remainder, and put it at the feet of the apostles. (Acts of the Apostles 5:1-11). Read the
story. It didn’t work out for them.
“A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.” We should not hesitate to invite Jesus
into the parts of our lives we think are ours alone. He only needs a small gesture to
restore us completely.
But He offers us so much more through Holy Communion – His body, soul, mind, spirit
— everything of His is now ours. We don’t even need to wait for it; it’s a gift of incredible
worth, and we are genuinely blessed to receive it.
Gospel Challenge:
So, when He gives us Himself in a few moments, what will we offer Him that He is eager
to carry to the cross for us?
Love Your Neighbor:
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
pastor@bscchurch.com