Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Thursday, 1st Week in Advent

December 7, 2023, Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Memorial of Saint Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the ChurchR. (26a) Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. or: R. Alleluia. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.bible.usccb.org

Never Satisfied.

That is Tom Brady, who was the quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He acknowledged different players and plays that went well in his news conferences after a win. But at the end, he always says in one way or another, “We can play better.” I like that drive to be your best. It is motivating in crunch time.

Something else caught my eye about Brady. A game had only a few seconds left, and the Bucs had a sure win. The camera fell on Brady. What was he doing? He was looking at his iPad to learn something he didn’t want to miss. Incredible. It takes that kind of determination to be the best.

I wonder about never being satisfied in my relationship with Jesus. It’s not enough to call on Him, “Lord, Lord,” and nothing in my relationship changes. I must open the iPad in my heart and let Jesus challenge me to be a better priest, friend, or parent. Take a hard look at yourself with Jesus and see what is missing.

Gospel Challenge:
Go to a quiet place and pray with Isaiah, “Seek the Lord while he may be found. Call on him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6.” If Tom Brady can strive to be a better player, we can check our complacency at the door and be the best we can be for Jesus and all who need us. Let’s all ignite the fire in us. “Come Holy Spirit. Amen.”

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…

Peace be with you.

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC 
www.bscchurch.com