Friday, 21st Week in Ordinary Time September 1, 2023

Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Friday, 21st Week in Ordinary Time

September 1, 2023, Matthew 25:1-13

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090123.cfm

Every Day Counts

We are grateful that most diocesan properties in our Diocese sustained little to no damage from Hurricane Idalia. Our prayers are with our neighbors to the north who are dealing with hurricane damage from intense winds and high storm surges.

For states on the US Gulf Coast and Eastern Seaboard, hurricane season peaks at about this time. Every day, we hear, “Be prepared.” That warning is on websites, radio, TV, and every other media outlet. It all became so real a few days back.

State officials tell us to collect our important documents and supply plenty of food, water, and batteries. If we don’t have storm windows, go to Home Depot and stock up on plywood.

Can you imagine being one of the foolish virgins in today’s gospel arriving at Home Depot just hours before the hurricane was about to hit? They could see empty shelves peering into the windows of the locked doors.

Jesus is telling us the same thing about the state of our souls. It is so crucial that Jesus repeats it many times. Why can’t we lollygag along and do our own thing until the last hour?

We don’t form our person in a day, week, or month. It takes a lifetime. Even more important, it takes time for our hearts to become more like the heart of Jesus.

The choice to forgive or not to forgive, to share our wealth or hoard things for ourselves, to shape our life on God’s Word every day, or to face the challenges of life with or without His direction – all of this shapes who we are today and our eternal destiny. Most importantly, I need Jesus in Holy Communion to be more like Jesus daily.

Gospel Challenge:

We add oil to our flask whenever we forgive, share, and allow Jesus to shape our hearts. How many drops will we add today? Let’s meet the bridegroom.

Peace everyone.

IGNITE THE FIRE!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
pastor

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