Fr. Rick’s Homily: Monday, 14th Week in Ordinary Time July 6, 2026

Matthew 9:18-26
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070626.cfm

Effective Prayer

 
Have you ever wondered why God sometimes answers our prayers immediately, but
other times it feels like it takes forever? This is a common question many of us have.
Today’s gospel provides some useful insights to help us better understand this. 

The woman in the gospel had been suffering from hemorrhages for 12 years. I wonder
how often she prayed to the Lord for healing. In today’s gospel story, the official
earnestly asked Jesus to revive his deceased son. Jesus compassionately rose and
accompanied him, demonstrating His sincere concern and readiness to assist.  

In this case, Jesus directly felt the father’s grief and sorrow, turning it into a personal
experience for Him. Likewise, for the woman with a hemorrhage, Jesus probably
required a close encounter so she could understand that He carried her suffering within
His Body. 

When you pray for yourself or others, keep in mind that Jesus is with you personally.
Don’t only ask Him to heal or perform miracles to improve your life. Instead, kneel with
the person and ask Jesus to lay His hand on you, sharing your pain and
suffering—particularly the pain you carry for someone else. This is a personal encounter
with Jesus.

Remember, Jesus quickly got up and went to his son’s bed, demonstrating His always-
available presence. Also, recall that a simple touch of Jesus’ cloak was enough for Him
to feel the pain and suffering of the woman with hemorrhage. His response is
consistently prompt and personal.

Gospel Challenge:

Let’s aim to make each moment of our lives an encounter with Jesus, allowing Him to
carry on His saving work through us. This gospel motivates us to remain in continuous
communion with Him. 

Communion with Jesus is more important than anything we could ask Him to do for us
or for others.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  

www.bscchurch.com
www.rosminians.com