Sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of why we’re really here. In today’s homily for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, we step back and look at what can be called God’s master plan—a plan that was never meant for just one people, but for the whole world. Through Isaiah and its fulfillment in Jesus, we’re reminded that being “chosen” is not about being better than others, but about being sent for others. In the middle of everyday life—work, responsibilities, and even small sacrifices—we are called to live with love, holiness, and purpose, allowing God’s light to shine through us wherever we go.

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR reflects on Saint Anthony of the Desert and the wisdom found in Scripture, reminding us that every one of us belongs to the same category: sinners in need of God’s mercy. Through the stories of kings like Saul, David, and Solomon, we see how even the greatest can fall when humility is lost. Saint Anthony’s radical life of prayer and sacrifice calls us back to a simple truth—stay humble, remain prayerful, and choose God each day, trusting in His mercy and grace.

In this reflection, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR explores how God often uses obstacles, suffering, and even failure to prepare the way for something greater. From Israel’s painful experience under King Saul to the rise of King David, we see how trials can soften hearts and lead to true conversion. The Gospel echoes this truth in the healing of the paralyzed man, where an obstacle becomes the doorway to forgiveness, healing, and a deeper revelation of who Jesus truly is. When we face difficulties, we are invited to trust that God may be plowing the soil of our hearts, preparing us for a beautiful blessing still to come.