Fr. Rick’s Homily: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

July 19, 2026
Matthew 13:24-30
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071926.cfm

Growing Together.

In a perfect world, it would never rain on a day I want to go golfing or fishing. It would
never be too hot or too cold. One thing is for sure: it would be a rare day when it would
snow in Seminole, Florida.

People are not perfect either. We all need a Savior to help us embrace our own sins and
weaknesses, as well as those of each other.  

So Jesus tells us the parable of the weeds and the wheat to help his disciples, and us,
understand that, like the weeds and the wheat in the parable, good and evil are very
much a part of our lives. We find good and evil in ourselves, the people we know and
work with, and the organizations and institutions we all belong to, including the Church.

Because Jesus lets us know His Father lets these grow together, day in and day out.
How silly it would be for anyone to think, I can tell God I am sorry on my dying bed, so I
really don’t need to be sorry now.

Jesus wants to save us today, now, and help us put an end to the misery we cause
ourselves and each other.

Every day each of us struggles to live with this mixture of weeds and wheat. The weeds
of impatience and anger grow along with the grain of forgiveness and love. The most
fantastic part of being human is that despite all our faults and weeds, much good grain
does grow.

How many times do people count on us for support and encouragement? How often do
they turn to us for comfort and friendship, advice and love, whatever may be their cup of
cold water?

Many times during our day, God’s goodness and patience in us bring about the care and
concern He has for others.

We may find it hard to see God’s goodness in us at times, but it is true. All the evil in the
world cannot overpower one ounce of God’s goodness. One little candle overcomes all
the darkness of the night.

God knows that every saint has a past and every sinner has a future. And our hope is
this – no matter how horrible evil in the world may seem, personally, nationally, or
internationally, this world will find its fulfillment in God’s reign only after he gathers the
harvest into his barn.

Gospel Challenge:
Go to His barn every day, the most beautiful part of your heart, and rest with Him, just
for a while. You will find peace, no matter what the rest of the day may bring you.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC

www.bscchurch.com
www.rosminians.com