Pastor's Corner
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time 07/12/25-07/13/25
As we continue to pray for the victims and families of the tragic Texas flood, we receive fortification for that effort in the words of a very familiar gospel taken from Luke, which is the story of the Good Samaritan. We know the story well as it has even crept into the lexicon of everyday life and is not limited to Christian values only. The underlying lesson is the answer to the question, "Who is my neighbor?" and Jesus, in asking that very question to his listeners, answers firmly that the one who is a neighbor is the one who acts with mercy. The others in the story, despite lofty and pious positions within the community, ignore the needs of the robbed and beaten traveler, and put their own ignorance and position above the needy one, despite being understood by the community as being "other". We are called upon to see every person as worthy of a good and merciful response from us simply because the other is made in the image and likeness of God. When we look into the life and face of another, we are called to see the face of God and act accordingly and with mercy.
Moses speaks to the people in the Book of Deuteronomy and reminds his listeners and all of us that the Lord and His precepts are not far fetched but rather already reside within us, and we are called to carry out His commands in faith. The people ask, "Who will cross the sea to get it for us?" but he responds that it is something very near to you, already in your mouths and your hearts. As followers of Christ, we receive this gift in the moment of our baptism, and our awareness of such grows stronger throughout our lives of faith.
Have a great week!
God Bless,
Fr. Joe