Father Rick’s Three Minute Homily for Friday, 1st Week in Lent

February 27, 2026, Ezekiel 18: 21018; Matthew 5:20-26

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022726.cfm

Outside the Box.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, poses a serious threat to our society. It is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 1000 times more potent than morphine. Alarmingly, more than 150 people die daily from drug overdoses, with Fentanyl playing a major role. (Fentanyl Facts – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl/index.html.

It’s easy to glance at these statistics and carry on with our normal lives. However, the reality is that we are all involved in this problem. Many, especially young people, are experiencing severe struggles, reaching the point where they might risk using a potentially fatal drug. They face a persistent, overwhelming monster daily and look for a way to escape their pain. Occasionally, they accidentally ingest the drug, confusing it with something safe.

In today’s first reading, Ezekiel emphasizes the importance of choosing life over death. He urges us to turn away from sin, as doing so leads to life. However, avoiding sin or harmful actions is often challenging and may seem impossible for some. So, what steps can we take?

Don’t feel helpless. We have Jesus living in us, suffering with these people. Remember, he showed Thomas the wounds in His hands, feet, and side. We are all in this together. Spend a moment or two praying for someone under the influence of a drug or sinful behavior.

Ask the Lord to help you carry some of their pain with Him. Offer any crosses or suffering you encounter as a prayer for them. As the Body of Christ, when one part suffers, all parts suffer (1 Corinthians 12:21-16).

Gospel Challenge: 

Remember that our prayers and sufferings are not in vain. God can use them to heal those struggling with illness. He sends people to connect with them, and I have seen many in their hardest times turn to the Lord for mercy and find it. Our prayers and sacrifices are powerful when in the hands of a loving God.

St. Faustina wrote that Jesus told her, “The greater the sinner, the greater right they have to my mercy.” This means that those who are deeply entrenched in sin, such as addiction, are in great need of God’s mercy. Let’s be vessels of that mercy.

Love Your Neighbor:

Peace be with you.

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.

 pastor@bscchurch.com