Father Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Tuesday – 03-22-2022

bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032222.cfm

“BE PATIENT WITH ME, AND I WILL PAY YOU BACK IN FULL.
“Whatever you do the least of my brethren, you do to me.” Think of the millions of
Ukrainians who migrated from their country and the thousands killed by the Russians.
What Vladimir Putin began is inconceivable. We ask how he can order attacks on
schools and shelters containing civilians, including children.
Consider the servant in the parable who is entrusted with distributing his master’s
wealth. Over the years, he stole so much that he could never repay his debt, even if he
lived a thousand years. Yet, his master forgave everything when he pleaded for mercy,
and he forgave him because he could.
The more we love someone, the deeper the hurt goes in our hearts. Even a small
offense can hurt us acutely. It is hard to let it go. So when I read today’s gospel, Putin
came to mind. And I couldn’t help but think that the amount of Putin’s debt to humanity
could not compare to the vast amount the master forgave his servant. And yet, God’s
infinite mercy can swallow up even Putin’s sins. Why? Because Jesus carried in His
person the suffering everyone experiences in this war.
It would be good to ponder the vastness of God’s mercy in us. I envision His heart
swallowing up the hurts we cause others—what a challenge when Jesus asks us to do
the same for anyone who offends us. Let the heart of Jesus in you embrace anyone
who has offended you. His suffering has already paid their debt to you.
IGNITE THE FIRE
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com