Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily Feast of St. Michael, Gabriel, Raphael
September 29, 2023, John 1:47-51
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092923.cfm
No fences in Nathanial’s heart.
We will see fences around most backyards if we drive down any neighborhood. We know security is a big issue today. But aren’t we securing more than just our belongings and property? In today’s gospel, Jesus liked what he saw in Nathanial when he met him and said, “Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him.” Nathaniel had no fences around his mind or heart. He did it when he knew what to do to please God. He had no fear.
Like Nathaniel, the three archangels we honor today had no duplicity when doing God’s will. Saint Michael drove Satan out of heaven. St. Gabriel delivered messages to Zechariah and Mother Mary that changed the world. St. Raphael healed Tobias in the Old Testament. God asked, and they delivered. No fuzzies to cloud their mission.
The gospel challenge:
Jesus needs us to deliver for Him as well. People need to know how much God is with them to help them. We may not have the wings of an angel, but we can have their surrender to the Lord and make a difference in the salvation of a brother and sister. When He puts that person in our mind, befriend them. It may take some time. Let them know they matter to you by the respect you show them. It may surprise you how easy they can come around to the Lord when they know you love them. Remember, NO FENCES.
IGNITE THE FIRE IN YOUR HEART!
Father Rick Pilger, I.C.
pastor
