Fr. Rick’s Homily: Friday ~ 17th Week in Ordinary Time

July 31, 2026
Matthew 13:54-58
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/073126.cfm

How do we know Jesus?

When soldiers or sports stars return home to small-town America, it’s like a special
celebration. The streets are filled with music from the band, and a stage is set to honor
their heroes.

Why not apply the same to Jesus or a prophet? After his baptism by John, Jesus
emerged as a transformed man. His quiet life in Nazareth was in the past.

Baptism made Jesus a man for others. He couldn’t help but meet the needs of those
around him. It was in his DNA. Because he is God, he had no limits in meeting those
needs. We call those miracles, but truly, they are acts of compassion.

Why did the people of Nazareth reject Jesus? It was because he was too familiar to
them. They saw him merely as Jesus the Carpenter and did not recognize him as Jesus
the Messiah, despite his miracles.

Today, consider how Jesus reveals Himself to us in fresh and inspiring ways. Have you
come across something in the Scriptures or your spiritual reading that has repeatedly
resonated with you?

Let’s kindly remind ourselves not to hold any preconceived notions about Jesus based
on our past experiences or on how we’ve known Him before.

Gospel Challenge: 
Where is Jesus loving you today? Where do you need His saving grace? Welcome Him
there.

Peace everyone.
  
Love Your Neighbor!
  
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  

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