Fr. Rick’s One-Minute Homily for Thursday, 1st Week in Ordinary Time

January 115, 2026 Mark 1:40-45

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011526.cfm

Really? I Don’t Have To Live Like This Anymore.

“If you wish, you can make me clean.” We may know someone with a long, severe illness that conditions them to accept their situation and not consider getting better.

The illness’s disability becomes routine, often accepted by the individual. Many live in depression for years without seeking help. We may know someone grieving a loss who is no longer the same person we once knew.

The leper in today’s Gospel discovered a profound faith and grace. His helplessness and reliance on others may have shattered his spirit, but also opened him to the divine. His plea, “If you wish, you can cure me,” echoes the depths of his soul, ready to kneel in supplication.

Gospel Challenge:
Remember, grace and faith are present in every broken spirit. Pray with confidence, trusting that Jesus’ mercy can bring hope and healing to those in need. Your prayers and acts of kindness can be a source of comfort and renewal in their darkest moments.

We are all called to be agents of God’s mercy. Like Jesus, who said, “I do will it,” we are invited to participate in His healing work through our actions and compassion, fostering a feeling of meaningful encounter with Jesus in their person.

Love Your Neighbor:
Please join me in praying for all baptized Catholics to be faithful to Jesus in the Holy Mass every weekend. Hail Mary, full of grace…

Mother Mary, “I am yours now and forever. Through you and with you, I always want to belong completely to Jesus.” The Surrender Novena – InHeartland. https://inheartland.com/pages/the-surrender-novena

Peace be with you.

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
pastor@bscchurch.com