Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Monday, 18th Week in Ordinary Time

August 4, 2025, Matthew 14:13-21

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080425.cfm

Give Them Something Yourselves?

Remember the adage, “God helps those who help themselves.” Unfortunately, that phrase can make it seem like everything depends solely on us. God has given us natural abilities and talents to live and sustain ourselves. We must use those talents and skills to serve others and expand God’s kingdom.  

For the baptized, God elevates us to a higher level. His Divine Providence places us in situations where we must depend on Him for everything. In the gospel, the disciples could not feed thousands of people with just a few fish and loaves of bread.

So, they gave Jesus the little they had to receive from His abundance. Of course, God still expects us to offer Him whatever we can in any situation. His authority over everything can bring about miracles beyond what we could ever ask for or imagine.  

  

St. Paul states in the second letter to the Corinthians, “And so I willingly boast of my weaknesses instead, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)  

God can only bless our poverty when we are truly in need. The first beatitude remains as relevant as ever: “Blessed are the poor in spirit; theirs is the kingdom of God.” You might recall an earlier reflection where I shared how God provided for 50 people with just one bowl of soup and a single ladle, which kept refilling until everyone was fed. This miracle happened to me twice while feeding hungry individuals in Bradenton, Florida. I never asked for it; it simply occurred.  

Gospel Challenge: 

Imagine a situation where you’re overwhelmed and powerless. Feel that sense of helplessness and turn it into a prayer to God. Trust Jesus to handle everything. 

Peace everyone.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  

 pastor@bscchurch.com