Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Thursday, 5th Week in Ordinary Time

February 13, 2025, Mark 7: 24-30

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021225.cfm

Incognito?

It is refreshing to go on vacation to a place where no one knows you; we call it incognito. I love Blessed Sacrament Parish and School. However, I miss everyone after several days away. But it is always good to get home again and let out that sigh, “Ahh.” Those first few days always feel so good and refreshing.

Even Jesus, in His human form, felt the need for a break. He sought a town where He could have some peace, away from the demands of His ministry. But his ‘Ahh’ was short-lived, as He was recognized as soon as He entered a house.

A mother pleaded with Jesus to cure her daughter of a demon. Jesus tried to dismiss her. Why? Because He wanted some rest? Or maybe because she was not from His people. Israel treated foreigners like nobodies. Hence, He refers to her as a dog.

People weren’t ready to become one people of God. He left that to us, the Church.

Interruptions can be bothersome when they mess up our plans. Frustration can settle in a moment. How we handle that frustration is essential. I am learning to go with the flow and live in the moment with God.

Yahweh told Isaiah, “My ways are not your ways.” God has the whole picture in mind. I am happier when I let go of the frustration and let the Lord have His way. Tension and stress are gone, and I can quickly slip back into what I was doing. 

Gospel Challenge:
One crucial lesson I’ve learned is that the peace I seek isn’t in my surroundings, but within me, in the Presence of the Lord. By giving Him my attention every day, I’ve turned interruptions into adventures. 

Love Your Neighbor:

Please join me in praying for all baptized Catholics to be faithful to Jesus in 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