Father Rick’s One Minute Homily for Saturday, the 5th Week in Lent 

April 12, 2025 – John 11:45-56

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/041225.cfm

Fear Is Useless

I learned long ago that nothing good can come from a decision made out of fear.

When the Pharisees saw that Jesus was gaining popularity, they feared that the Romans would come and destroy them. They began plotting His death. John tells us that our Lord withdrew to Ephraim, a region near the desert.

He wasn’t escaping or running away. Like other times in his life, Jesus needed time with his Father. We do not find the strength to face any opposition to our faith in books, CDs, or retreats.

True strength to endure spiritual battles comes from prayer, time spent with Jesus alone in the sanctuary of our hearts. Consider the number of times Jesus entered into prayer: when he began his public ministry, Jesus went into the desert for 40 days and 40 nights to pray.

He prayed the whole night before calling his disciples to follow him. In today’s gospel, he goes to Ephraim to pray. Before His arrest, Jesus went to the Mount of Olives to pray and be with His Father.

Gospel Challenge:
When do you and I need to withdraw and go to Ephraim to be with our Father and Jesus?

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  
www.bscchurch.com