Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for September 10, 2025,

Luke 6:20-26   https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/091025.cfm

Poor, Hungry, Weeping, Hated, And Persecuted – But Blessed.

What a challenge Jesus presents to us! A willingness to be poor, hungry, crying, hated, and persecuted is not very appealing—unless your heart is filled with so much love that you can’t help yourself. How many parents sacrifice so much to send their children to Catholic school and later to college? It takes some calculation, but they know their children are worth the effort. 

Students and athletes both sacrifice in their classrooms and on the field. Having a goal offers strong motivation to achieve something meaningful. We see positive results when effort is focused on education, sports, and larger ambitions. 

Living as a disciple of the Lord daily involves sacrifices. These include experiencing others’ poverty, mourning alongside those who have lost loved ones, and being prepared to face hatred and persecution because of our faith.

But how much are we willing to give to a poor person or to our Catholic Ministry Appeal? How much time will we spend with someone who is sorrowful or has lost a loved one? How much time are we prepared to dedicate to Jesus through worship, prayer, and study to deepen our love for Him every day? 

Our beloved Founder, Blessed Antonio Rosmini, describes justice as giving God and others what they deserve. We grow in justice when we make these sacrifices. I find it helps to ease the pain of sacrifice. Our joy comes from being more pleasing to God.

Gospel Challenge:

Being a disciple of Jesus is centered on grace; the only way to receive it is by spending time with the Lord every day. Dedicate some precious moments to Him. Only God can transform our hearts and what they value. 

Love Your Neighbor!

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