October 5, 2025 - 27th Sunday of Ordinary Time
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
Today’s readings invite us into an honest and hopeful dialogue about faith in times of struggle. The prophet Habakkuk voices the questions of many: “How long, Lord?”—when injustice and suffering seem unchecked. God’s response, though not immediate, points us to a future hope: “the righteous one shall live by faith.”
In the Gospel, the disciples’ request, “Increase our faith,” is as urgent and sincere today as it was two thousand years ago. They had seen Jesus heal the sick, forgive the sinners, and challenge the leaders. They knew that such a life of discipleship would require courage and trust beyond their own strength. So they begged for more faith. Jesus’ reply may surprise us. He doesn’t hand them a grand strategy or promise instant power. Instead, he points to something tiny: faith like a mustard seed. A seed seems small and insignificant, but in God’s hands it carries immense potential. Even the smallest act of trust—spoken prayer in a difficult moment, forgiveness offered when it hurts, showing up to serve when tired—can become something far greater than we imagine. What God can do is beyond our control and measure.
Jesus also tells a parable about servants who simply do their duty without expecting special thanks. Here he reminds us that faith is not about prestige or entitlement; it is about humble service. Faith grows not by dramatic displays, but by steady fidelity: praying daily, loving patiently, serving quietly, forgiving readily. This Gospel asks us to rethink what we mean by “great faith.” True faith is not about quantity, but about surrender. It is the courage to entrust even our small efforts to God’s power, and the humility to serve without seeking recognition. As we go through the week, let us remember: a little faith, sincerely lived, can move mountains—because God is the one who makes it grow and makes things happen.
St. Paul’s words to Timothy strengthen us: the gifts God has given us are not to be hidden but kindled, lived out in courage, integrity, and perseverance. In our daily lives, we are called to live faithfully, trusting that God is at work even when we do not see it fully.
Key Reflections for the Week: How do I respond when life feels unjust or confusing? What small acts of faith might I begin, trusting God to grow them? Am I living in humility and service, without seeking applause? May we be strengthened by Scripture, emboldened by the Spirit, and remain steadfast in faith.
God bless everyone always!!!
Fr. Stan
