Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time A

January 18, 2026, John 1:29-34

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010324.cfm

“I did not know him.”

In my younger years, my relationship with Jesus was one-sided. It was all about me and what I had to do to prove myself worthy of Him. The more I prayed and the nicer I was to people, the more I would be worthy of Jesus. Then I expected Him to owe me because I was so good. When I prayed for something, I expected an answer, and it never seemed to work that way.  

I can say, as John the Baptist did, that I did not know Him in my younger years. The one thing that John did was look for the Messiah, the Christ. My thirst to prove myself worthy in God’s eyes was the beginning of my search for Jesus. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that’s how God works.

He calls us to Himself from where we are with Him. And the beautiful thing is that God knows the day and the hour when we, like John, can say, “Behold the Lamb of God! Behold Him Who takes away the sins of the world and my sins.”

It wasn’t until my novice master prayed over me to release the Holy Spirit in my life that Jesus became a real person I could relate to. Someone Who loved me, even in my sinfulness. Our Lord Jesus became my best friend over the years. I’ve learned that engaging in prayer, reading Scripture, and participating in the sacraments helps us keep that friendship alive and growing. I need direction on how to deepen my relationship with Jesus through these spiritual practices.  

 An excellent app called “Hallow” continually gives that direction. There are courses like “The Bible in a Year” and “Catechism the Year” where what is read is explained in simple language. There are morning routines, Sunday and weekday reflections on the Gospel from Mass, and music to help you sleep. You can listen while you pray the Rosary, the Divine Chaplet of Divine Mercy, and many prayers. I often listen to them in the car.

Gospel Challenge: 

If you use something to help you pray, take a moment first to bear your heart to the Lord. Whatever comes to mind, know He carries it all in His most Sacred Heart. He’s indeed our best friend. Stay with Jesus every day.

Love Your Neighbor: 

Let us pray together for all baptized Catholics to remain faithful to Jesus at every Mass. 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