Thursday, 6th Week in Ordinary Time, February 16, 2023

Father Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Thursday, 6th Week in Ordinary Time, February 16, 2023
Mark 8:27-33 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021623.cfm

A Moment That Lasts A Lifetime

Two distinct memories have affected my relationship with Jesus and my ministry as a priest. Both occurred when the Bishop installed me as pastor in Sacred Heart Church, Bradenton, FL, and Blessed Sacrament Church, Seminole, FL.

First, I felt a warm light in the center of my chest during the installation prayer. Then, it expanded throughout my body as a tingling started at the top of my head and went down to my toes. These sensations were only a manifestation of the Presence of Christ I was becoming for His People.

I thought this must be similar to what Peter experienced when he declared to Jesus, “You are the Christ.” Like me, Peter had to grow into the Presence of Jesus as he let go more of himself and embraced Jesus. “You are the Christ,” the only One who can love me enough into eternity. Jesus sacrificed everything for us to know Him as He is, the Son of God, the Lord of our lives, so that we can live in His abundance.

Gospel Challenge:
When you declare Jesus as your Christ, you honor Him to trust Him with everything in your life. You can live with all the human ability you can muster up. Or you can live your days in the expanding grace Jesus pours into your experiences.

“Who do you say I am?” I pray your answer to Jesus will last a lifetime as it did for Peter.

IGNITE THE FIRE

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com

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