Fr. Rick’s Gospel Reflection for Thursday, 28th Week in Ordinary Time, October 17, 2024

Luke 11: 11:47-54 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101724.cfm

The most humbling thing we can discover is …

Who could ask how many times the scribes, Pharisees, and lawyers heard Jesus call people to repentance so they may believe in the Gospel? Probably about as many times as he’s called you and me to repentance and a more profound commitment to Him. Would it be that our minds and memories are so full of how people have treated us that it is challenging to think that God would act differently? 

We know in our heads the extraordinary place that Jesus has in his heart for sinners and that he ultimately gave his life for us. But do we know his loyalty deep in our hearts where we live and act daily?

How disappointing it must have been for Jesus when the leaders would close their hearts to his mercy and convince themselves of their righteousness before God. The most humbling thing we can discover is that we can do nothing to lift ourselves out of the state of sin. We have no power or authority over sin in our lives. The joy of his mercy trumps every one of our games. 

The Gospel Challenge:

May the gaze of his mercy fall on our souls and give us peace. Humility is not thinking less of ourselves. On the contrary, humility is thinking of ourselves less. And we might add that we think of God and others more than we think of ourselves. 

Take time to consider who treats you with so much kindness. Learn from them.

IGNITE THE FIRE. 
God bless you, my friends. 
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.