Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Saturday, 23rd Week in Ordinary Time 

September 13, 2025, Luke 6:43-49   

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/091325.cfm

Deep Roots 

I know a friend whose neighbor’s tree fell on her house during a tropical storm. It was too top-heavy for the weak root system to keep it upright in the high winds. Life’s storms also come occasionally in the form of losing a job, an illness, and daily frustrations.  

Jesus, our Lord, is the anchor that can steady us in any storm life throws our way. Just as he calmed the wind on the sea when he was in a boat with his disciples one night, he can bring peace to our turbulent lives. But we must not treat him as a last resort. If we only turn to him when we need something, we risk being like a tree with no roots.

It’s the time we spend in prayer with Jesus that allows His roots to grow deep into the soil of our hearts, where He is most present to us.  He works through the love and commitment we make to him every day.

As we turn to him in thanksgiving and praise for all the blessings we receive and share what we feel during moments of hardship, we become vulnerable to Jesus. Let Jesus hold your heart, and all it bears, in the sacred moments in His Presence.  

When life’s storms hit, we may feel like we’ve lost our footing. But we can always return to our roots, which is Jesus. His patience and kindness in us keep our minds and hearts calm until the storms pass. He is our anchor, our steady hand in the midst of life’s chaos. Let’s take comfort in this truth.  

Gospel Challenge:  

Let’s reflect with Jesus on what kind of fruit he develops in us during those challenging moments. Don’t be afraid to cry out to Jesus in weakness and ask for his mercy. His roots will grow deeper in our souls and produce beautiful fruit for everyone to enjoy. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the growth we’ve experienced during our own storms, and the fruit that has blossomed from our struggles.  

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.  

Pastor@bscchurch.com