Our school put on the play ‘Beauty and the Beast’ a few years ago. After hearing confessions from 6 to 7 pm, I caught the last 20 minutes of the show. When I entered the parish center, all the lights were off. I could only see a few feet ahead from the light coming in from the entrance.
As I entered the parish center, darkness surrounded me. Then, a seemingly miraculous change took place. The lights turned on, and a burst of color filled my vision. The children’s bright costumes and the lively play captivated me, and I was completely drawn into the moment’s beauty. It served as a strong reminder of the transformative power of Jesus’ Light, which can dispel even the deepest darkness.
In today’s gospel, Jesus uses yet another powerful image to help the Pharisees understand who He is. It’s truly remarkable how they couldn’t see the Light standing right before them, speaking directly to them. Imagine that!
Every time Jesus tried to shine His Light into their minds and hearts, their human wills often closed that door. I find myself recalling that night at the parish center—closing the door behind me, accidentally stepping on toes, bumping into people, and even falling over. Such silly moments!
This experience makes me reflect on how our sins can sometimes cast shadows, hiding us from the Bright Light of Jesus. But I take comfort in knowing that His light will continue to shine on my mind and heart, showing me just how wonderfully gracious His mercy is—if I open the door and allow Him in.
We would have missed so much of the evening with people around us if the stagehand hadn’t turned on the parish center lights. I warmly invite you, along with your family and friends, to embrace the Light shining in your darkness and let it brighten your path.
Love Your Neighbor!
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC https://www.rosminians.com/ Daily Homilies
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I Forgot The Darkness.
Our school put on the play ‘Beauty and the Beast’ a few years ago. After hearing confessions from 6 to 7 pm, I caught the last 20 minutes of the show. When I entered the parish center, all the lights were off. I could only see a few feet ahead from the light coming in from the entrance.
As I entered the parish center, darkness surrounded me. Then, a seemingly miraculous change took place. The lights turned on, and a burst of color filled my vision. The children’s bright costumes and the lively play captivated me, and I was completely drawn into the moment’s beauty. It served as a strong reminder of the transformative power of Jesus’ Light, which can dispel even the deepest darkness.
In today’s gospel, Jesus uses yet another powerful image to help the Pharisees understand who He is. It’s truly remarkable how they couldn’t see the Light standing right before them, speaking directly to them. Imagine that!
Every time Jesus tried to shine His Light into their minds and hearts, their human wills often closed that door. I find myself recalling that night at the parish center—closing the door behind me, accidentally stepping on toes, bumping into people, and even falling over. Such silly moments!
This experience makes me reflect on how our sins can sometimes cast shadows, hiding us from the Bright Light of Jesus. But I take comfort in knowing that His light will continue to shine on my mind and heart, showing me just how wonderfully gracious His mercy is—if I open the door and allow Him in.
We would have missed so much of the evening with people around us if the stagehand hadn’t turned on the parish center lights. I warmly invite you, along with your family and friends, to embrace the Light shining in your darkness and let it brighten your path.
Love Your Neighbor!
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC https://www.rosminians.com/ Daily Homilies
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