Fr. Rick’s Homily: Tuesday 20th Week in Ordinary Time

August 18, 2026
Matthew 19:23-30
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081826.cfm

God’s Lottery

One of the greatest joys of my priesthood is the daily opportunity to make a positive
difference in people’s lives. The joy of serving others through the Lord’s gifts far
outweighs any sorrows or sadness that may come my way. In these moments, I feel
most alive, and the presence of Jesus is most evident. It is when I lose sight of this joy
and focus only on myself that I feel distant from the Lord.

I understand why Jesus said it will be hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.
Unfortunately, when the word rich comes up, we think of people with more money than
they know what to do with. I am learning that when I am rich in myself and in what I
want, I leave the Presence of the Lord in my heart.
  
So, the word “rich” in the gospel refers to people who believe they earned their wealth
through their abilities and hard work. Therefore, they give little or no credit to God for
their gifts. They can use their wealth as they please; a majority, if not all, keeps it in their
pockets. As a result, their hearts become hardened as they depend on themselves for
everything, never turning to God and His providential care. 
  
Does the wealthiest person in the world possess more than God, who owns all
creation? The answer is clear: the more we rely on God, the more He shapes our hearts
to be like His. As a result, we never truly lose anything we give to others for His sake. It
is His nature to give generously, providing us with even more so His riches can benefit
many in need. 

Gospel Challenge: 
Sisters and brothers, pray to be responsible stewards of everything God has entrusted
to you. This is not a burden but a path to complete joy. When we recognize that all we
have is a gift from God and use it to serve others, our joy is boundless.
  
Love Your Neighbor!
  
Father Rick Pilger, I.C.
 
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