Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Saturday Third Week of Lent

Luke 18 9-14

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032925.cfm

Seal the Deal?

Back in 1981, I visited Father Gordon at Blessed Sacrament Church in Seminole. It was my first visit to Florida. I vividly remember walking into the church and standing in awe for five or 10 minutes. It was like I couldn’t move.

I was overwhelmed by the Presence of the Lord coming from the Tabernacle. Every time I walk into our church, I am enveloped by our Lord’s Presence. It is not just a feeling but a warm and welcoming embrace. I pray my heart is the same for Jesus.

The tax collector in today’s gospel was overcome with the presence of the Lord when he prayed in the temple. Jesus said he could not “even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed, ‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’ “

We don’t have to be perfect to be with Jesus. It’s liberating to be who we are with Him in the moment. His love is not conditional; it is free and all-encompassing.

Challenge:
If we are overwhelmed by our sinfulness, rejoice! He’s embracing us in His merciful love for you. No one deserves His love, but we get it anyway. Go to Jesus in confession and let Him seal the deal, so to speak, as He gives you absolution. Like the tax collector, you will walk away justified, and your heart will be at peace.

Love Your Neighbor:

Peace be with you.

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