Father Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Saturday, 4th Week in Ordinary Time

February 7, 2026, Mark 6:30-34

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020726.cfm

We All Need A Deserted Place

There are so many pressures in today’s world. Getting stuck in traffic on the way to and from work can cause stress. Please consider the wasted energy we carry when we bring that stress into our work and family life. It is hard to focus our minds and hearts on our work, our comrades, and even our family members.

The disciples were on a long missionary trip when Jesus sent them out in pairs. He understood they were under significant stress. Their bodies were fatigued, and their minds were filled with the joy of shared experiences. It was demanding. Therefore, Jesus took the Third Commandment, “Keep holy the Sabbath,” and divided it into smaller parts throughout the week.

“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest awhile.” Rest is not just a luxury; it is vital to our existence. Life is full of anxieties, and a clear mind and heart allow the dust and fog to settle. We slow down when driving in fog. So we slow down every day in the fog of life, knowing that rest can rejuvenate us and give us hope.

Being still and quiet for a few moments can feel like an eternity. That’s because we are in the Presence of God, who is eternal. I am learning that He does His best work when I give Him a few moments of attention. These moments of stillness can inspire and motivate us to continue our journey.

Even one minute of deep breathing greatly improves how you feel. The Holy Spirit is the “Pneuma or Breath of God,’ breathed into Adam, who became a living being.

Gospel Challenge: Take a moment during your day to listen for that gentle call from the Lord guiding you to a quiet, deserted place inside. In these peaceful moments, you’ll discover rest and His renewed energy to help you carry out your work and stay truly present with the people who matter most. This is a heartfelt Gospel Challenge for us all to embrace and dedicate ourselves to.

Love Your Neighbor! Please join me in praying that all baptized Catholics be faithful to Jesus at the Holy Mass every weekend. Hail Mary, full of grace…

Mother Mary, “I am yours now and forever. Through you and with you, I always want to belong completely to Jesus.” The Surrender Novena – InHeartland. https://inheartland.com/pages/the-surrender-novena

Peace be with you.

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C. pastor@bscchurch.com