Father Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Wednesday, 2nd Week in Easter

April 15, 2026, John 3: 16-21

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/041526.cfm

Everyone

The word “everyone” grabbed my attention right away when I read the first line of today’s gospel. It made me consider the people I will meet today. Some encounters will bring joy, while others may present various challenges.

Jesus said in today’s gospel, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that everyone who believes might not perish but might have eternal life.” This shows His desire for everyone we meet today to experience His life. While I can’t interact with everyone in the world, I can ask Jesus to help me love each person I encounter today, no matter how brief that moment may be.

It’s like turning my conscience inside out; rather than dwelling on my blessings and sins each day, I concentrate on progressing with sincere intent. Beginning every interaction with love in my heart feels incredibly revitalizing. So, I imagine that person as lively and vibrant as possible.

This visualization isn’t merely about contemplating the person. It involves sitting back and observing them, filled with joy and contentment, much like watching a beautiful movie. The impact of this practice is genuinely inspiring.

I am surprised by how much my feelings about the person changed after the visualization compared to before. Now, I genuinely want what is best for them and remain focused on finding it. My search aligns with what Jesus already sees in them: that they are a son or daughter of His Father. Gospel Challenge: This visualization is real, not merely imagination or wishful thinking. It represents repentance—a turning of the heart and mind away from my harmful thoughts and actions towards loving them in the moment where they are. This change is possible every time because of God’s love for the world, demonstrated by sending His only Son, Jesus, to love others through us. Believe it. I do.

It beats feeling ugly inside, filled with tension, stress, and anger. And remember, yes, Jesus also loves us in those nasty moments.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC www.bscchurch.com www.rosminians.com

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