Fr. Rick’s Gospel Reflection: Thursday, 29th Week in Ordinary Time

October 22, 2026
Luke 12:49-53
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102226.cfm

Find a friend in Jesus.

I moved to Florida in 1995. It’s terrific to play golf and enjoy the outdoors year-round,
but I must admit I miss the changing seasons. Change can be hard to handle.
Resistance can come when the Lord touches our hearts enough to want Him and His
desires more than our own. Nothing compares to a close relationship with Jesus.

Family and friends often face similar division when someone comes to Christ and a
family member has not experienced His mercy. When St. Luke wrote his gospel, Jewish
synagogues expelled followers of Jesus from their services. The prayers and religious
practices that once united the family became a source of division.

We know that within our own families and extended families, there are children who no
longer practice their Catholic faith and children who have not been baptized. Others
come forward wanting their children baptized but have no intention of raising them
Catholic or faithfully celebrating the Eucharist on the Lord’s Day.

Let us remain steadfast in our faith despite such opposition. In the words of St. Pope
John Paul II, “Do not be afraid.” Let us share the merciful love of the Lord Jesus, the
only fire capable of winning over an unbelieving heart.
 
Gospel Challenge:
Our challenge is to seek out people with strong faith who are happy and willing to share
their relationship with the Lord. I have seen too many people on fire for Jesus, as the
gospels talk about, and slowly go out because faith in Jesus is relational. Jesus sent His
disciples out in pairs and told us I am with you when two or more are gathered in my
name.”

Find a friend in Jesus. Be a friend to Jesus.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
  
www.bscchurch.com
www.rosminians.com