Saturday 17th Week in Ordinary Time 2022

Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Saturday 17th Week in Ordinary Time 6-30-2022
Saturday 17th Week in Ordinary Time 2022
Matthew 14:1-12 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/073022.cfm

PEER PRESSURE – WHO DO I WANT TO BE LIKE.

A lot of people influence us over our lives. My cousin, Fr. Dick Horvath, influenced me when I was four or five. He came to our house weekly on his day off for a short visit. I would sit and listen to him speak, even though I did not know much of what he said. It was his persona (Christ) that touched me. Without realizing it, he had the most significant impact on my vocation to be a priest.

It would be good to consider who influenced us in our tender years. Fathers, mothers, siblings, and friends all leave a mark on us as we mature. Is there anyone who influenced you to be like Jesus, more forgiving, understanding, and compassionate? Did the Presence of Jesus stay with you when you left that person’s presence?

Herod martyred John the Baptist in today’s gospel. When he baptized our Lord, he said, “He (Jesus) must increase. I must decrease.” John wanted to be like Jesus and was, even in his death. John found his identity in Christ Jesus and could face all situations with courage and calmness.

The only identity Herod had was in what people thought of him. So, when told to kill John the Baptist, he was distressed in his heart because he admired John’s persona, Christ Jesus. But the person of Jesus was just like anyone else, not his Lord and Savior. He never seized an opportunity to know Jesus personally. So, Herod ordered John to be beheaded. He had no strength to do what he knew was right.

So, what can you learn from John and Herod? Have a chat with Jesus about who influenced you in your life.

Peace everyone.

IGNITE THE FIRE!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
pastor

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