Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time (cf. Luke 11:15–26)

Written By Rev. Douglas Hunter

Rev. Douglas Hunter
Marian University
Indianapolis, Indiana

In today’s Gospel, we witness Jesus casting out a demon, a sign of his divine power and authority. Some accuse him of working by the power of Beelzebul, but Jesus reveals the truth: “If it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” That “finger of God” is the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit who descended upon the disciples at Pentecost (cf. Acts 2:1–4).

Evil does not surrender easily. When a heart is cleansed but empty, darkness will return with greater force. Jesus warns us that freedom from sin is not merely about removing evil; it is about filling our hearts with the presence of God. The human heart cannot remain empty; it will welcome grace or invite temptation.

Our task, then, is to resist sin and invite the Holy Spirit to dwell within us each day. As the Catechism teaches, “The Holy Spirit prepares us with grace to draw near to Christ” (CCC 2670–71). When we pray, act with charity, and conform to Christ in obedience and love, our hearts become sanctuaries for his Spirit.

Let us ask the Lord today to fill every corner of our lives with his presence, so that evil finds no room to return, and we may live in the true freedom of his kingdom.

Rev. Douglas Hunter

Fr. Douglas Hutner is a Roman Catholic Priest for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. He serves as a Chaplain to Roncalli High School, Indianapolis Colts, and Southport Police Department. 

https://www.fatherhunter.com
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Faith the Size of a Mustard Seed