Fr. Rick’s Homily: Saturday, 18th Week in Ordinary Time

August 8, 2026
Matthew 17:14-20
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/memorial-saint-dominic-priest

Lord, Have Pity on My Son.

People often ask me to pray for healing or a favor. I believe Jesus is all-powerful and
can do anything. However, I’ve realized that merely asking for His power is not the same
as having a life-giving faith.

Faith and friendship are closely linked when it comes to Jesus. Consider how the man
in the gospel approached Jesus to seek healing for his son. He humbly said, “Lord,
have pity on my son,” asking Jesus to share in what he and his son were going through.

Initially, he acknowledges Jesus as Lord, believing in His infinite power. Afterward, he
earnestly implores our Lord’s mercy with the heartfelt plea, “Have pity on my son.”

The mercy of Jesus is central to His power, authority, and compassion. Imagine a parent
witnessing their child face a difficult situation. While the parent has the authority and
strength to help, it is compassion that truly motivates them to intervene and support the
child.

Compassion comes from two Latin words—“com,” meaning “with,” and “passio,”
meaning “to suffer.” Jesus bears our pain and suffering more than we do, demonstrating
his great love for us. When we reach out to our Lord’s compassion, no obstacle or
mountain is too great to overcome. He is eager and ready to help us every step of the
way.

Gospel Challenge: 
If there’s a mountain in your life or in the life of someone you care about, take a moment
to pray with the father in the gospel, saying, “Lord, have pity on my son.” Let your heart
repeat those words with the father in the gospel. Discover the mustard seed of faith in
your heart.
 
Peace everyone.
  
Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC

www.bscchurch.com
www.rosminians.com