Shows Archives - Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network: Recent Episodes
Shows Archives - Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network
Salt of the Earth, Light of the World, Call to HolinessHomily given by Archbishop Charles Jason GordonIn this inspiring homily, Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon, reflects on Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount, reminding us that every baptized Christian is called to be both the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Speaking to members of Magnificat, he emphasizes that discipleship is not reserved for clergy or religious—it is the vocation of every believer.
Beginning with the Beatitudes, Archbishop Gordon explains that Jesus presents a revolutionary blueprint for true happiness. While the world often searches for fulfillment in wealth, power, or success, Christ offers a radically different path rooted in humility, mercy, purity of heart, and trust in God. When we ignore this blueprint, we should not be surprised that our world experiences confusion, brokenness, and moral decay.
The image of salt becomes a rich symbol throughout the message. Salt gives flavor, preserves food from decay, and in biblical times represented value, covenant, and sacrifice. Likewise, Christians are called to preserve society from spiritual decay by faithfully living the Gospel. Rather than complaining about the state of the world, the bishop challenges listeners to ask a more personal question: “Where is the salt?” If society is losing its moral foundation, Christians must examine whether they are truly living as disciples of Christ.
The homily also explores the sacrificial nature of Christian living. Every act of love, every sacrifice made for one’s spouse, children, neighbors, or the poor becomes part of the offering presented to God at Mass. The bishop beautifully explains that our daily sacrifices are united with Christ’s perfect sacrifice, participating in God’s ongoing work of salvation.
Drawing from the prophet Isaiah, he reminds listeners that our light shines most brightly through the Corporal Works of Mercy: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, and caring for those on the margins of society. Holiness is not simply personal devotion, but love expressed through concrete acts of charity.
Speaking directly to the Magnificat community, the bishop affirms their mission as disciple-makers. The true measure of success is not attendance or impressive events but whether lives are transformed and people grow into deeper discipleship with Jesus Christ. Every testimony, every prayer, and every gathering should help move someone one step closer to Christ.
He concludes with the inspiring example of Mother Teresa, whose interior spiritual darkness never diminished the brilliant light she radiated to the world through selfless love. Her witness reminds us that holiness is not measured by feelings but by faithful service.
This episode is a compelling invitation to embrace the universal call to holiness, live intentionally as disciples of Jesus Christ, and become the salt that preserves the world and the light that leads others to Him.
Key Takeaways* The Beatitudes are God’s blueprint for lasting happiness. * Christians are called to preserve society by living authentic discipleship. * Every sacrifice offered in love becomes part of Christ’s sacrifice. * The Corporal Works of Mercy allow Christ’s light to shine through us. * Magnificat’s mission is to make disciples and deepen faith. * Holiness belongs to every baptized believer. * The world desperately needs Christians to be visible witnesses of Christ’s love and truth.
Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon’s homily was given on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Independence Square, Port of Spain with our Trinidad and Tobago Chapters and those attending the Caribbean Visitation Cruise.
The post Salt of the Earth, Light of the World, Call to Holiness Homily given by Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Do Christians live by too many rules? Rethinking Christian life restrictionsChristian life restrictions are the norm, right? The idea is that Christians have no fun, that faith piles rule after rule on our shoulders — a long list of do’s and don’ts. But Christianity is so much more than that, and living a Christian life can bring us true freedom. In this episode we explore those so-called restrictions and ask whether there’s any truth to the accusation that Christian life is nothing but rules.
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Those of us who call ourselves Christians do live by a right and a wrong. Through a formed conscience, we believe things are either one way or another — and many people consider that a form of restriction.
So the question comes: Why be a Christian? What’s in it for us? Why follow a list of do’s and don’ts when, some say, being a Christian is no fun?
Let me share the truth with you: being a Christian and living a Christian life is, in fact, freeing.
Right and wrong reveal a moral lawIt always amazes me to hear people say there is no God because there is no right and wrong — that everything goes. When you get right down to it, that isn’t how any of us actually live. Ask a moral relativist, someone who insists there’s no right or wrong, whether they’d be fine with a burglar breaking in and taking their computer, money, and jewelry. They’ll say, “No. That isn’t fair. They broke the law.”
But how can you have laws — the laws of the land — and not have a moral law beneath them? What is the difference?
A film worth watching here is God’s Not Dead. The main character is a Christian college student in a philosophy class taught by an atheist professor. On day one, the professor requires every student to write “God is dead,” sign it, and turn it in, because he doesn’t want to deal with Christian arguments in his classroom. One student refuses to sign. The professor challenges him to use the coming weeks of class to prove that God is truly alive. One argument that surfaces is simple: rules serve us and protect us. They are not restrictive to those who are living rightly. They only restrict those who want to do what is wrong.
Christian life restrictions? No — it is a gift
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. — Ephesians 2:8–10 (NASB)
Through God we are saved, and this is an amazing gift. I’m not sure how anyone can call a gift a burden.
Here is how I’d sum up what our faith actually gives us:
- A gift
- A choice
- A blessing
- Freedom from sin
- Open gates of heaven
God gave us a choice and lets us make up our own minds — and yet many people stay firmly closed off in their beliefs.
Everyone lives under some restrictionIf Christianity is “restrictive” because we don’t do certain things, then honestly everyone is under restriction in some way.
You can’t run a red light — not unless you’re willing to harm yourself or someone else. Freedom of speech doesn’t mean you can make a racist remark or defame someone (people try these days, but they shouldn’t). Our society has norms, and much of the dissension we see is those norms being pulled apart.
Just because I don’t agree with you, it does not make me wrong. There are boundaries built into our world. We can’t travel without a visa or passport, we can’t board without paying for a ticket, we can’t use a credit card without paying the bill. Our world — and, in essence, our lives — is bound by rules and regulations. So why shouldn’t faith also have some guidelines?
The commandments are guidelines that free usWhen God handed down the Ten Commandments, He asked Moses to spread the Word. These are the guidelines we use to lead our lives, and they set us free — they bring us peace, joy, and happiness.
Like any good parent, our God watches over us. It’s striking that the same people who accuse Christians of living under restriction are often restrictive parents themselves. Would any parent let a child play in traffic, play with matches, or put their fingers in an electrical outlet? No — because of the danger of death. That parent isn’t being too restrictive. That parent is being loving. In the same way, we have a God who cares about us and wants us to have everlasting life.
We can never fully understand the mind of God. We come to know Him through reading the Bible, through our interpretation, and through allowing the Holy Spirit to enter our lives more deeply. Scripture does speak to how we should live, and we’ll dig into that in the next podcast.
Free will is the heart of itIn Mere Christianity — a book I recommend every Christian read — C.S. Lewis recalls that, as an atheist, he had built his case against Christianity on a set of ideas he later found to be false. One of them was moral relativism, the notion that there is no right or wrong. That is the crux of this: free will. We have the intellect to decide for ourselves.
Those who call Christianity too restrictive are sometimes the same people who want to defy what is good and holy. Others say Jesus was a good man but not the Messiah. But how can someone be good and a liar? Jesus said He was the Son of God. Either He is who He said He is, or He is not.
Freedom from all regulation does not, by itself, bring us joy. Giving children limits and rules is exactly what lets them flourish. Those who break the rules often find themselves in trouble, doing harm to their bodies, their souls, or both.
True freedom is knowing we are loved and loving others in return. The rules help us live lives that honor God and honor one another. What is wrong with You shall not kill? You shall not commit adultery? Honor your father and your mother? Love your neighbor? I think we’d all agree there’s nothing wrong with wanting to live the best lives we can.
The commandments themselves begin with God Himself:1. I am the Lord your God: you shall not have strange gods before me. (Exodus 20:2–6; Deuteronomy 5:6–10) 2. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. (Exodus 20:7; Deuteronomy 5:11) 3. Remember to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
God is love. As limited as we are in our own understanding — and in the human words we reach for to describe a Divine being — we know He saved us from eternal separation by sending His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to set us free, and the Holy Spirit to remain with us always. Eternal life is found in the true God alone.
Let’s prayDear Lord, I pray in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I thank You for the gift of freedom, the gift of free will, the gift of faith, and the gift of opening the gates of heaven through Your death and resurrection. Thank You for setting us free, for giving us a renewed gift of faith, and for allowing us to believe in Your Divine Providence for our lives and for our families. I am blessed that You have called me to live a life that honors You, and I can only do this by Your grace, so I pray for an outpouring of Your love and grace to fill me. Please, Lord, hear the petitions I now bring before You: ____________________. I ask that, as a community of believers — all those listening to this broadcast — we join together in prayer for one another and for our personal needs. I thank You for all that is good and holy, and I praise You with every breath I take. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
FAQDoes being a Christian mean following a list of do’s and don’ts? No. While Christians do live by a sense of right and wrong, faith is far more than a rule list — it is a gift of grace that leads to true freedom, not a burden of restrictions.
Are Christians really restricted from having fun? Christian life restrictions are largely a misunderstanding. Like traffic laws or the boundaries any loving parent sets, God’s guidelines protect us and let us flourish rather than hold us back.
What does the Bible say about Christian freedom? Ephesians 2:8–10 teaches that we are saved by grace through faith as a gift of God, created for good works. The commandments are guidelines that bring peace, joy, and freedom.
Is faith just a set of rules with no freedom? The opposite. True freedom is knowing we are loved and loving others. The rules help us live lives that honor God and each other — the way limits help children thrive.
The post Do Christians live by too many rules? Rethinking Christian life restrictions appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
For Ultimate Christian Podcast NetworkMagnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 19, Barbara Heil – from Pentecostal Minister to Catholic Evangelist
Magnificat® Ministry presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Barbara Heil, a former Pentecostal minister, missionary, teacher, and evangelist, shares her soul-stirring journey to becoming Catholic. Barbara and her husband, Jeff, have eight children and eleven grandchildren and reside in Iowa.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Find out more about Barbara Heil at https://www.fromhisheart.com
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
The Magnificat® Ministry Podcast is also heard on EWTN’s Podcast Central (scroll to our Podcast Icon) on this page: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/other-podcasts
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About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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Living on Purpose: God’s Plan for Everyday LifeDo you ever wonder if your ordinary days really matter? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, Felice Gerwitz explores what it means to live on purpose by aligning everyday life with God’s plan—even when schedules are full and faith feels weak.
God created each of us with intention. He has prepared good works for us to walk in, and He invites us to respond to that purpose one day at a time. Drawing from the daily decision required in marriage and the truth of Scripture, this episode offers practical encouragement for living intentionally with God.
What Does It Mean to Live on Purpose?Living on purpose is not about having a perfect life or a dramatic calling. It is about making conscious, faithful decisions to walk with God in the middle of real life. When we feel discouraged or distracted, we can still return to Him and trust the plan He has already prepared.
Practical Ways to Walk in God’s Plan Daily and Life on Purpose* Start the morning with a simple prayer of surrender * Keep Scripture visible in the places you already look * Offer ordinary tasks as quiet acts of love * End the day with honest reflection and a fresh beginning * Encourage another person in their faith
These small steps help us stay aligned with God’s purpose in the middle of busy seasons.
Scripture for Reflection (RSV-CE)* Jeremiah 29:11 – Plans for a future and a hope * Ephesians 2:10 – Created in Christ Jesus for good works * John 15:16 – You did not choose me, but I chose you
God has already chosen you and prepared a purpose for your life. The invitation is to walk in it—one ordinary, faithful day at a time.
For more encouragement on your faith journey, explore these related episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Renew Your Faith this New Year – Making faith a personal, daily decision
- Why? A Powerful Question For Christians – Free will and authentic response to God
- True Faith – Faith as a conscious decision that brings peace
- Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – Turning faith into practical daily works
- Missionaries at Home – Following God’s call in everyday life and relationships
One More ChildAvailable from Media Angels
This beautiful and entertaining book celebrates the gifts of family and children. It is Felice’s story, but it contains a message that will resonate with anyone who struggles with the often-conflicting messages about family life that are promoted to parents today. The author doesn’t claim to have all the answers; instead in each page, she encourages the reader to be open to the will of God in every area of life, including family planning.
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What Floats Your Boat with the CSTA Conversation on Faith, Community, and Trust in God
As the final day of a memorable retreat cruise came to a close, the women of Magnificat gathered for one last inspiring conversation centered around a simple yet profound question: “What floats your boat?” In other words, what keeps you spiritually afloat through the storms and challenges of life?
In this heartfelt panel discussion, members of the Some Women podcast share personal testimonies of faith, healing, and transformation. Their answers reveal common themes that resonate deeply with every Christian journey.
For some, what keeps them afloat is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ—learning to surrender control and allow Him to guide the course of life. Others speak of the power of community, emphasizing that faith was never meant to be lived alone. Through prayer groups, friendships, and ministries, they have discovered the strength that comes from walking alongside fellow believers.
The discussion also highlights the importance of Scripture and the Sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, as essential sources of spiritual nourishment. Panelists share how obedience to God’s will, even during difficult and uncertain times, has carried them through life’s storms.
Several touching testimonies underscore the beauty of God’s faithfulness: overcoming fear, receiving answers to years of prayer, witnessing family members return to the faith, and experiencing the peace that comes through complete trust and surrender to God.
Audience members add their own reflections, speaking about the goodness of God, unconditional love, perseverance, forgiveness, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. A special contribution from Fr. John reminds listeners that true intimacy is found not merely in human relationships but in a deep, spiritual relationship with God and one another.
This episode is a beautiful reminder that while everyone’s “boat” may look different, the source of our strength is the same. Whether through community, prayer, the sacraments, trust, or surrender, Jesus Christ remains the One who keeps us afloat.
Key Themes:
- Trusting God through every season of life
- The power of Christian community
- The importance of Scripture and the Sacraments
- Learning surrender and obedience
- Persevering through trials with faith
- Growing in intimacy with God
- Recognizing the work of the Holy Spirit in everyday life
No matter what storms may come, this conversation encourages us to ask ourselves: What truly floats our boat—and are we allowing Christ to be our captain?
The Central Service Team (CST) talk was given on February 13, 2026, the 5th day of the Water Walking Women Retreat on the Caribbean Visitation Cruise Jan.31– Feb. 14, 2026.
The post What floats your boat with the CST appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Spirit of Offense with Dr. Carol Razza, Part TwoIn this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Dr. Carol Razza as they further discuss a spirit of offense: why we want it removed from our midst, how it endangers a community, family, work place, ministry, etc., the advantage to addressing it individually rather than letting it infect the community, and how to address it within Community.
Dr. Carol Razza was a full-time formation faculty member and professor at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida. She also serves on the Advisory Team for the International Magnificat Ministry and as the Regional Representative for Asia and Australia. Prior to accepting the position at the seminary, she had a full-time private psychotherapy practice for over 25 years. She has written two books, Sonblock, How Christians Unknowingly Shield Themselves from God’s Grace and Parent Me Please, a book helping parents to parent their adolescent children. Carol has been called to bring the awareness of God’s Kingdom throughout the world as an international evangelist. Carol has ministered throughout the U.S., Central America, the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, Africa and Asia. She lives in the Father’s supernatural joy and encourages others to do the same. Carol’s greatest blessings include her marriage to her husband Paul for over 50 years, their wonderful sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post The Spirit of Offense with Dr. Carol Razza, Part Two appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Show Notes ‘Walking through the Storm’ with Susan Potvin
In this powerful and deeply personal message, worship leader and speaker Susan shares an encouraging invitation to trust God in every season of life. Drawing from the story of Peter walking on water in Matthew 14, she reminds us that storms are inevitable, but fear does not have to define our response.
Susan opens with a simple but profound declaration: “Jesus, I trust in You.” She explains that praise and worship are acts of surrender—lifting our hands to God like a child reaching for a loving Father. Trust becomes the foundation that allows us to move from merely surviving life’s storms to walking with Jesus in the midst of them.
Through heartfelt stories, including the adoption of her daughter from the Philippines and the loss of her mother to cancer, Susan illustrates how God often meets us at the end of our strength. In our moments of exhaustion, grief, and helplessness, we discover that Christ has been holding us all along.
One of the central themes of this message is that suffering is never meaningless. God permits trials either to produce a greater good within us or to protect us from a greater evil. Rather than asking only, “Why am I suffering?” Susan encourages listeners to ask, “What is the gift hidden in this suffering?”
She also introduces the concept of “situational awareness” in the spiritual life, reminding us that we live in three realms: the earthly realm, the realm of spiritual battle, and the heavenly realm. As believers, our eyes must remain fixed on Jesus and the realities of heaven, even while we navigate the difficulties of this world.
Perhaps the most moving insight of the message is that the victory is not merely when the storm ends. The true victory is found in the storm itself, when we cling to Jesus as Peter did and discover that He is enough.
Whether you are grieving, struggling with fear, praying for loved ones, or carrying unanswered questions, this episode offers hope and encouragement. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, and He invites each of us to walk with Him—even on stormy waters.
Key Takeaways:
- Storms are a normal part of the Christian journey.
- Trust and praise keep our focus on Jesus.
- Every suffering contains a hidden gift from God.
- We are called to live with our eyes fixed on heaven.
- The greatest victory is not escaping the storm but encountering Jesus within it.
- Our weaknesses and insecurities can become places where God’s glory shines most brightly.
Memorable Quote:
“Don’t ever separate the gift from the Giver. Jesus Himself is the victory in the storm.”
Susan Potvin’s talk was given on February 11, 2026, the 4th day of the Water Walking Women Retreat on the Caribbean Visitation Cruise Jan.31– Feb. 14, 2026.
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Examination of ConscienceEpisode #41 | A Few Minutes with God
Most of us would rather not look too closely at our own hearts. Slowing down for an honest examination of conscience — asking what we have thought, said, and done, and where we have drifted from God — can feel uncomfortable. But it is one of the most freeing habits a believer can build. In this short episode of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz walks through what an examination of conscience is, why so many of us avoid it, and how to begin.
What is an examination of conscience?An examination of conscience is a prayerful review of your recent thoughts, words, and actions, measured honestly against God’s moral law. Think of your conscience as a kind of spiritual autopilot — the quiet inner sense that steers your everyday choices. Like any guide, it works best when it is well formed and checked often.
Why we avoid examining our conscienceMuch of the world has lost its sense of sin, and looking inward can feel like the last thing we want to do. Yet a comfortable conscience is not the same as a clean one. As Paul reminds the Corinthians, “My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me” (1 Corinthians 4:4, NIV). Real peace does not come from our circumstances, or even from feeling fine about ourselves. It comes from being rightly related to God — and that relationship is worth an honest look.
How to examine your conscience — five stepsYou do not need a complicated method. These five movements, drawn from the episode, are enough to begin:
- Form your conscience. A good conscience is not automatic; it is taught. Fill your heart with what is true through Scripture, sound books, and trustworthy teaching so you can tell right from wrong before the moment of choice.
- Recover a sense of sin. Naming sin honestly is not shame — it is the doorway to grace. Our freedom can also shape others, for how we live can either wound or strengthen a fellow believer’s conscience (1 Corinthians 8).
- Look back honestly. Set aside a few minutes to reflect on your recent thoughts, words, and actions in light of God’s moral law. Where did you fall short in love of God and love of others?
- Name and turn from temptation. Notice the patterns that pull you away, and step around them by God’s grace. As Paul assures us, God will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but will also provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13).
- Guard your heart daily. We would never leave a child near danger without watching; our souls deserve the same care. A regular examination of conscience is how we keep watch.
What Scripture says about examining yourselfThe practice is woven through the Bible. “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5, NIV). The psalmist prays it as an invitation rather than a dread: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV). And when we bring what we find into the light, we are met with mercy, not condemnation, for Jesus sent His followers out with the ministry of forgiveness (John 20:21-23).
A short prayer to examine your conscienceIf you are not sure how to start, borrow this: Lord, quiet my heart. Show me where I have wandered today in thought, word, and deed. Thank You for meeting me with grace, not condemnation. Guard me from temptation, and lead me one more step toward You. Amen.
Or begin a daily practise of examining your conscience.
Frequently asked questionsWhat is an examination of conscience?
It is a short, prayerful review of your recent thoughts, words, and actions, held up honestly against God’s moral law, so you can confess what needs confessing and grow closer to Him.
How often should you examine your conscience?
Many believers do it daily, often in the evening, looking back over the day. Even a few minutes is enough to make it a habit.
What questions do you ask during an examination of conscience?
Start simply: Where did I fall short in loving God today? Where did I fall short in loving the people around me — in my thoughts, my words, and my actions? What do I want to bring to God and leave with Him?
Is examining your conscience biblical?
Yes. Scripture invites it directly, from “Examine yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5) to “Search me, God” (Psalm 139:23), to Paul’s call to examine ourselves before the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:28). The 10 Commandments are also a useful guide.
Related episodes from A Few Minutes with GodIf this encouraged you, sit with one of these next:
- Combating fear — standing on God’s promises when worry creeps in.
- Peacemakers — what it means to be a peacemaker in a world that needs peace.
- Faith time capsule — looking back to see how far the Lord has brought you.
| ReplayExamination of ConscienceWhen was the last time you paused to look honestly at your own heart? In this short but searching episode, Felice gently walks through what an examination of conscience is, why so many of us avoid it, and five simple steps to begin — a quiet practice that can set you free. A few honest minutes with God may be exactly what today is asking of you.Listen Now → |
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Why Catholics Choose Life | Magnificat Ministry, Some Women PodcastShownotes:
In this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Dr. Wanda Franz as they discuss why Catholics Choose Life.
Wanda is a developmental psychologist and professor emerita at WVU where she taught from 1973 to 2003. She authored the textbook, Early Childhood Development, Prenatal Through Age Eight. She has also written chapters for several books on fetal development,
post-abortion syndrome, post-abortion trauma in adolescents, and the cognitive implications of arguments regarding abortion.
She served as the President of the National Right to Life Committee for 20 years, in between two terms as President of WV for Life. Among her many accomplishments and accolades, she has spoken on abortion and euthanasia across five continents and presented at the Third World Congress of Pro-Life Movements given by the Pontifical Council on the Family at the Vatican in Rome.
Dr. Franz was married to Gunter N. Franz for 53 years prior to his passing.
Together they had 3 children and now 12 grandchildren.
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post Why Catholics Choose Life | Magnificat Ministry, Some Women Podcast appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Getting out of the Boat with Dr. Carol RazzaIn this powerful and Spirit-filled message, international evangelist Dr. Carol invites listeners into a deeper encounter with Jesus Christ and a renewed awareness of the Holy Spirit’s transforming power. Speaking from decades of ministry experience around the world, Dr. Carol shares that God is releasing a “tsunami” of living water—a fresh movement of renewal that is meant to refresh hearts, change lives, and ignite the Church once again.
Drawing from the Gospel account of Peter walking on water, she challenges believers to step out of their “boats” of fear, insecurity, and false identity and fix their eyes firmly on Jesus. Fear, she explains, grows when we focus on our circumstances rather than on God’s perfect love. Through personal stories, Scripture, and prophetic insight, Dr. Carol reminds us that our true identity is not defined by the world but by our baptism—we are beloved sons and daughters of the King.
Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability, surrender, and daily encounters with Christ. Dr. Carol emphasizes that Christianity is not merely a set of ideas or religious practices but a living relationship with Jesus, nourished especially through the Eucharist and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
She also shares remarkable testimonies from her missionary journeys in Africa and the Dominican Republic, illustrating how God equips His people with supernatural grace when they respond to His call. These stories serve as reminders that every believer has been gifted and commissioned to participate in God’s work of evangelization and transformation.
The message concludes with a powerful prayer of healing, deliverance, and renewal, inviting listeners to surrender every burden, allow the Holy Spirit to heal old wounds, and rekindle the gifts received through Baptism and Confirmation.
Key Takeaways:
- God’s love casts out fear and reveals our true identity.
- Encounters with Jesus are meant to happen daily.
- The Holy Spirit is renewing the Church and calling believers into deeper faith.
- We are invited to step out in courage, trust God’s voice, and become instruments of His love.
- Through prayer, surrender, and the sacraments, God desires to bring healing, freedom, and transformation.
This episode is an inspiring call to leave behind fear and complacency and to enter fully into the adventure of walking with Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit and transformed by His love.
Dr. Carol Razza’s talk was given on February 9, 2026, the 3rd day of the Water Walking Women Retreat on the Caribbean Visitation Cruise Jan.31– Feb. 14, 2026.
The post Getting Out of the Boat – Dr. Carol Razza appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Redeeming Your Time: Living Each Day with PurposeEpisode 22Time well spent makes us happy. If we feel accomplished, if we do things on our “lists,” it makes us feel that we’ve spent our time well. Most of us say we need more time each day, we can’t finish out tasks, we run out of time. How can we add more time to our days?
Sponsors: CTCMath.com, Media Angels, Inc. Novels – Truth Seekers Mystery Series available on Amazon. Three novels for tweens!
Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins
When I look at my day I think, “What is the best use of my time each day?” Other than with my friends and family the best time is with God. How can you fill up without the One who truly gives us that grace to get through each day? Who do you spend time with and is that time well spent? In this episode, we explore how you can make the time. Let’s strive to make the most out of every minute of every day.
Look at your day, how can you incorporate time well spent? We all say we don’t have enough time each day!
- Identify the time wasters. Relaxing is wonderful for everyone and we don’t need to “produce” every day! However often we say we don’t have enough time for prayer because we don’t use our time wisely.
- What are the things in your day that waste your time
- How can you avoid the time wasters
- Does making a list help you
- We all waste time, and often we all need a break, so enjoy
- What is the one thing you can avoid? Is there something on your list that you can eliminate or reschedule in your day so that you can make more time?
- Social media
- Emails in the morning or afternoon
- Shopping without a list
- Can you make 5-10-15 minutes or more to spend with God in prayer? Look at your lists above and see where you can add more time to your day. Five, ten or fifteen minutes helps tremendously! Time well spent with God is so helpful in our day. Often we leave prayer time to night time. Praying in the morning, the first thing you do — will change your life and is truly time well spent.
- Who do you spend the most time with? Is it family, friends, virtual friends? Ist it fictional characters in books? Truthfully, sometimes we let virtual friends take the place of real ones. I have good friends online, some I’ve never met in person. Nurture your friendships but remember the one who will fill you with faith, love, and joy.
- How can you make that time productive? Spending it with God first will increase your productivity all day long.
- Can you be a witness or a blessing from the Lord to someone in your life? Do you ask God to use you each day? Do you see the people in your life as a blessing? How can the Lord use you? How can you be an example of God’s love to others?
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Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus with Dr. Elizabeth KimHow do we keep our eyes on Jesus when life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or filled with fear? In this inspiring retreat message, Dr. Elizabeth Kim shares a faith-filled teaching rooted in the Gospel account of Jesus walking on water (Matthew 14). Drawing from Scripture, her professional experience as a psychologist, and decades of ministry, she encourages listeners to cultivate a deeper trust in God and live with confidence in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Kim begins by reflecting on her visit to the Sea of Galilee, where she experienced a vivid reminder that Jesus is just as present with us today as He was with His disciples 2,000 years ago. Using Peter’s experience of walking on the water, she explores what it means to keep our focus on Christ instead of the storms surrounding us.
Throughout the message, Dr. Kim examines the relationship between faith, fear, and doubt. She reminds listeners that biblical faith is not merely intellectual belief but a living, active trust that produces courage, healing, and obedience. Using examples from Scripture—including Moses crossing the Red Sea, Joshua crossing the Jordan River, the woman healed from years of hemorrhaging, and the faithful witness of Mary and Joseph—she demonstrates how God works powerfully through those who place their confidence in Him.
The talk also addresses the many forms fear can take, including fear of failure, rejection, suffering, the future, trauma, and even success. Dr. Kim offers a hopeful perspective by distinguishing healthy reverence for God from the unhealthy fear that keeps believers from fully embracing their identity as beloved children of God. Referencing Romans 8 and 2 Timothy 1:7, she explains the difference between living with an “orphan spirit” driven by anxiety and self-reliance versus living with a spirit of adoption that trusts in God’s fatherly care.
As a licensed psychologist and board-certified neurofeedback practitioner, Dr. Kim briefly discusses how trauma affects the brain and emotional responses while emphasizing the healing available through Christ. She encourages listeners to pursue both spiritual growth and healing, recognizing that God desires wholeness in every area of life.
The message concludes with practical ways to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus every day:
- Develop a consistent daily prayer life.
- Spend time listening for God’s voice.
- Stay rooted in Scripture.
- Receive strength through the Eucharist and Eucharistic Adoration.
- Remain connected to a faith community.
- Live a Spirit-filled life, continually open to the power of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Kim closes the retreat with a beautiful prayer inviting a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit, asking God to remove fear, heal wounded hearts, renew faith, and empower believers to walk courageously with Christ.
Whether you are navigating personal challenges, seeking deeper faith, or longing for renewed spiritual confidence, this encouraging message reminds us that when our eyes remain fixed on Jesus, He is always faithful to reach out His hand, strengthen our faith, and lead us through every storm.
Key Takeaway:
When fear threatens to overwhelm us, Jesus invites us to trust Him, fix our eyes on Him, and walk forward in the power of the Holy Spirit. Faith grows as we deepen our relationship with Christ, allowing His perfect love to cast out every fear.
This talk, by Dr. Elizabeth Kim, was given on February 2, 2026, the 2nd day of the Water Walking Women Retreat on the Caribbean Visitation Cruise, Jan. 31 – Feb. 14, 2026.
The post Keeping your Eyes on Jesus – Dr. Elizabeth Kim appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
In this heartfelt episode, Felice Gerwitz recounts a touching encounter at the grocery store where a cashier sang, “I put my worries at the foot of the cross,” turning a routine errand into a powerful reminder of God’s care. Explore the freedom that comes from surrendering anxiety to Jesus, the impact of everyday holy boldness, and practical ways to trust God more deeply in daily life. Includes inspiring Bible verses and encouragement to live with unshakable peace.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
The Truth About Worries ~ Episode 374Putting Your Worries at the Foot of the CrossI want to share a beautiful true story of a cashier whose quiet song, “I put my worries at the foot of the cross,” became a divine reminder to surrender all anxieties to Jesus. Even in our everyday errands, the freedom found in casting our cares upon Him and the call to holy boldness in sharing our faith was a serious reminder! If you are seeking peace, I pray you are blessed as much from this story as I was from the encounter.
Truth About Worries Key Takeaways:
- Recognize divine appointments in ordinary moments.
- The power of worship and song to evangelize and encourage.
- Why worry steals our peace and how to release it to the Lord.
- Practical faith steps for bold, everyday witness.
Truth About Worries: A Divine Encounter in Everyday LifeRunning errands ranks among my least favorite tasks. Crowded stores, heavy traffic, and spending money are not my idea of fun—yet my family needs to eat. While checking out at the store, the cashier worked efficiently and quietly sang the refrain, “I put my worries at the foot of the cross,” over and over.
She wasn’t off-key, and the melody was unfamiliar to me. I wasn’t even sure she realized she was singing—not loudly, but steadily—as she rang up my many purchases. Because I shop infrequently, I tend to stock up, especially on sale items, so she had quite a workload!
As I emptied my basket, her song struck me. This woman was evangelizing without saying a word. She worked diligently—faster than I could load my cart—yet she proclaimed that her worries belonged to the Lord, not to herself.
Of course, Jesus lived, died, and rose again from the dead. He is no longer on the cross. He is risen. (Alleluiah!) But remember that with God, there is no time. We can pray and put our cares, our worries, and our burdens at the foot of the cross! I am going to leave it there without getting into the weeds.
Scripture Verse: Truth About Worries:Philippians 4:6-7 (RSVCE) “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
An Amazing God IncidentThis became a powerful God moment for me. I strive to pray throughout the day, especially during tasks I dislike. I aim to remain thankful for God’s provision and countless blessings. I nearly chose self-checkout, but my overflowing basket made help necessary. Loading, unloading, and putting everything away at home would take effort. Instead, I received an unexpected serenade of faith.
With no one behind me, the clerk handed me my receipt and wished me a wonderful, blessed day. I smiled, thanked her for the song, and shared that I, too, am a Christian. Her face lit up. I asked if others had inquired about God because of her singing. She said yes, at times. I praised her boldness in evangelizing and reminded her that we are all called to share the Good News. She had refreshed my own faith that day.
The Power of Holy Boldness and Releasing WorrySometimes we forget to surrender our worries to God. Imagine singing this simple refrain repeatedly—it would serve as a constant reminder and source of strength amid daily struggles.
1 Peter 5:7 (RSVCE) “Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.”
Stepping out in faith to share the Gospel isn’t always easy, but this gentle song transformed my day. I already know Jesus, yet I needed the reminder: my cares are nothing in His hands. Worry accomplishes nothing. It changes no outcomes and reveals when we place trust in ourselves rather than in God.
Matthew 6:25-27 (RSVCE) “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his span of life?”
Related Episodes You’ll Love:
- Peace Works Against Fear – Combat anxiety with God’s supernatural peace.
- Peace of Mind – Simple steps to restore calm in chaotic times.
- Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Waiting in Peace – Learn to wait on God with confidence.
- Faith and Hope – Build unshakeable trust that overcomes worry.
- Peace Within Families – Bring God’s peace into your home and relationships.
Listen now and be reminded that Jesus invites you to lay every burden at the foot of the Cross. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today!
Produced by Media Angels, Inc. | Ultimate Christian Podcast Network
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The Gift of HealingIn this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Lynn Marlin as they discuss her miracle of healing and the healing power of God for His people.
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
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Staying on Course by Jimmy SeghersGuest: Jimmy Seghers, Author of The Fullness of Truth
Episode SummaryIn this moving and deeply spiritual episode, renowned scripture scholar and apologist Jimmy Seghers shares profound insights on the journey toward true holiness. Drawing from the Song of Songs and the wisdom of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, Jimmy breaks down the stages of spiritual growth—the purgative, illuminative, and unitive ways—and challenges listeners to fully surrender their wills to Christ.
Through personal anecdotes of conversion, historical saintly examples, and a striking nautical analogy, Jimmy explains that holiness is not about our own spectacular actions but about allowing Christ to live and love through us in the present moment.
Key Themes & Takeaways The Three Kisses of Spiritual Life: Utilizing St. Bernard of Clairvaux’s 87 homilies on the Song of Songs, Jimmy explores the developmental stages of faith: + The Kiss of the Feet (The Purgative Way): The stage of intense repentance, turning away from mortal sin, and entering life from death (symbolized by Mary Magdalene). + The Kiss of the Hand (The Illuminative Way): A period of spiritual adolescence where love shifts from emotional and selfish to a committed, self-sacrificing will (symbolized by Peter being pulled from the waves). + The Kiss of the Mouth (The Unitive Way): The way of perfection and spiritual adulthood where our entire being is united with God’s will. * The Danger of Attachments: Many Christians get “stuck” in the illuminative way because of earthly attachments. Like Gulliver tied down by tiny strings, we are often held back from wholehearted love by small, subtle attachments rather than a desire for grievous sin. * The 211° vs. 1° Misconception: Jimmy shares a personal realization about his own spiritual life. He thought he was “hot water” at 211° needing just one more degree to become a powerhouse. Instead, he realized he was at 1°, and Christ is the 211° powerhouse we must surrender to. * Holiness in the Ordinary: Authentic love is an act of the will, not a feeling. True transformation happens when ordinary, mundane actions (like changing diapers or cleaning toilets) are done strictly out of love for Christ. * The Danger of Being Two Degrees Off:* In navigating a ship from Los Angeles to Hawaii, being a mere 2 degrees off course means being completely lost at sea. Regular course correction through scripture and grace is essential to stay aligned with God’s will.
This talk by Jimmy Seghers was given on February 1, 2026, the 1st day of the Water Walking Women Retreat on the Caribbean Visitation Cruise Jan.31st– Feb. 14th 2026.
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Magnificat Presents Some Women The Spirit of Offense Part 1Shownotes:
In this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Dr. Carol Razza as they discuss the definition, identification, and dangers of a spirit of offense
Dr. Carol Razza was a full-time formation faculty member and professor at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida. She also serves on the Advisory Team for the International Magnificat Ministry and as the Regional Representative for Asia and Australia. Prior to accepting the position at the seminary, she had a full-time private psychotherapy practice for over 25 years. She has written two books, Sonblock, How Christians Unknowingly Shield Themselves from God’s Grace and Parent Me Please, a book helping parents to parent their adolescent children. Carol has been called to bring the awareness of God’s Kingdom throughout the world as an international evangelist. Carol has ministered throughout the U.S., Central America, the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, Africa and Asia. She lives in the Father’s supernatural joy and encourages others to do the same. Carol’s greatest blessings include her marriage to her husband Paul for over 50 years, their wonderful sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post Magnificat Presents Some Women The Spirit of Offense Part 1 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Freedom in Christsponsored by CTCMath.com
What does true freedom in Christ look like? Many believe religion is a set of rules, a thou shalt and thou shalt not, but it is so much more. True freedom comes from a deep and abiding love of Jesus Christ. This show examines your personal journey.
Thanks for staying tuned. First downloads were around 8 and I have to thank my friend Geri because I truly believe many were of her listening to the show… but, not there are hundreds and hundreds of downloads and I have to thank each of you because that means you share this show with friends, and our outreach for the UCPN now is taking root, so thank you! There are so many great shows on this network, please check them out. Go to UCPN –
So, freedom is our topic and it seems appropriate with July 4th being celebrated here in the US that our freedom is so pivotal to our lives. What does freedom mean to you? Is it doing anything you want to do whenever you want to do it? What does that look like to you? Each of us has a different idea of what freedom means.
Freedom can mean leaving sin behind. You may not realize that sin is slavery. Whatever that sin may be and there are many, the addiction to sin without the ability to break it is truly a struggle. It can be something simple like an addiction to chocolate, gluttony, or even shopping or more severe like pornography or drugs.
The end result of sin is death, the death of our souls. Just like an addiction to drugs or even smoking can hurt our physical bodies, so too a sin can hurt our mortal souls.
When we sin the first thing that we do is rationalize it. In our minds and then in our hearts. Well, it isn’t that bad, or it is okay if that is what I want it is not hurting anyone. Or, we are consenting adults and can do whatever we would like. The amazing thing about sin is that God does not force His way on us. We choose to be in that sin.
So when I hear people say that religion is too restricting, I can easily answer that no, sin is too restricting because often you can’t leave it behind. But freedom, true freedom is knowing that God forgives and gives us the free will to sin no more, or to continue in our destructive behavior.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Slavery to sin is all around us, and we see it clearly now. Before it was shrouded in a dark, smoke-filled room. There were inklings of sin, there were little hints here and there, but now? Now it is a free-for-all, and sin reigns in the hearts of many. The idea of self-preservation has taken hold like never before. Fear is our greatest enemy and it can be used by the enemy to control. Think about this.
What does sin give us? It gives us many byproducts. It gives us guilt, the guilt of indulgence. It gives us sickness and disease, it gives us moral corruption.
What does freedom in Christ give us? It gives us the truth; it gives us joy – the joy that surpasses all understanding. It gives us the ability to wake up each morning without guilt, and it gives a clear vision of where we are going. I heard one of my favorite speakers share that we should weep and ask for forgiveness each night for our sins. And when we do, the Lord will forgive us. With this knowledge of forgiveness, we can begin each day with joy – because we have repented before the Lord. If it is a serious sin, one that can hurt our mortal souls, we should seek counsel from clergy in confession for a Catholic or a pastor for a protestant.
Just the other day I was delighted when a young man approached my friend and I after daily mass and asked what time confession happened at the church – he shared he had been away from the church for some time and wanted to come back. He wanted to talk to a pastor and work through his forgiveness. This is what freedom looks like. He was fearless and it looked like the Lord was already working in his life.
When we ask for forgiveness we are acknowledging the need for repentance. This thought is our conscience speaking and it can only speak if it is well-formed.
Read 1 Corinthians 10 – here, Paul is saying that while food and drink were no longer banned as in the time of the Old Testament, that did not mean that everything is beneficial. We know that overeating can make us sick, or eating the wrong types of foods if we are allergic. Would we willingly eat something that can make us sick? No—of course not, but then why can’t we refrain from the things that are evil and can hurt our souls?
Sometimes people think that if they give up sin they are doing it for God. It goes something like this, “Lord—I am giving up evil for you, now please do this and this for me.” We bargain with God – I’ll do this if you do that. Giving up sin will give us freedom. It is not a bargaining tool. I learned this a week ago when I felt the need to repent and I thought about fasting. I would fast all day and eat one meal at night. After the first week, I decided to do it another week, and felt that the Lord said, “Did I ask you to do this?” My second week of fasting was not for any particular reason, whereas the first week was… and I felt called to do it. So, I listened.
This voice is one that we have to learn to hear, we hear it in our hearts and we can answer with a yes or a no – sure, it would not have hurt anything or anyone to fast each week, but my purpose was not to lose weight, it was repentance.
The freedom we want in our lives and the joy can only come when we are free of guilt. When we do what is right, when we are in communion with God, when we seek the eternal good over the temporal we will discover that joy that we crave. Many of the sinful acts are ones that bring temporary enjoyment. But that is not the same as joy – or happiness that is free from guilt. Even the most hardened sinner who thinks wrong is right and right is wrong, is often very angry when they spew their nonsense. I listed the other day in passing to a man who was claiming that what he believed should be elevated among all other things – but then, he completed the sentence condemning the Christians for their bias and Christianity had been foisted on those and forced.
You can not force someone to believe – in fact, there is no way humanly possible to force Christianity, true Christianity that changes a soul. That my friends is a gift, it is a pure gift from the Almighty that calls to us and brings us to that higher place that is where we stand with God and not against Him. True freedom is deciding for ourselves if we will answer the call if we will accept the gift from the Almighty and in this way, open our hearts for even more blessings in our lives.
Let’s pray – Lord please teach me what true freedom looks like – what is true freedom in Christ and how can I lead a life that is beneficial to my soul. Lord allow me to hear your voice, and lead me, show me the joy that true freedom from sin can bring and I pray specifically for the following needs… and I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen!
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For Ultimate Christian Podcast Network
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 18, Kitty Cleveland -Walking by Faith, Not by SightMagnificat® Ministry presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, singer/songwriter and inspirational speaker Kitty Cleveland shares her moving story of learning to surrender to God’s will.
Kitty has been delighting audiences from around the world, having appeared on TV, radio, in concert, and keynote speaker throughout North America and in Europe. She launched her music ministry in 2000, previously having worked as a lawyer, university instructor, and career counselor. She and her husband live in the New Orleans area with their daughter, whom they adopted from China in 2005.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistryVisit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
The Magnificat® Ministry Podcast is also heard on EWTN’s Podcast Central (scroll to our Podcast Icon) on this page: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/other-podcasts
**
About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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Can you use the 10 Commandments for a Conscience Check
Episode #43
In this podcast, we’ll examine if the 10 Commandments can help you check your conscience. How do we know if we are on the right path? Are we doing great? Of course! We don’t sin! That is until you take a look at the list below. I’ve listed each of the 10 Commandments and questions to ask yourself.
First, begin with prayer, ask the Lord to allow us to see what is in our lives that need to be forgiven and perhaps if it is an area where you struggle.
Sin causes us to put off doing what is right and what we should do, and it allows us to make excuses for all the times we are not doing what is right. Are the Ten Commandments just suggestions or are they something we should look at when we examine our conscience? I know that we all struggle because we think, “Well, I’m not an ax murderer so therefore I am a good person,” however, that line of thinking is truthfully not accurate.
Thankfully we do not commit murder but there are other things to look at under the “Thou shalt not kill” commandment.
Thank you to our sponsor, CTCMath.com
Using the 10 Commandments helps us form a good conscience.
The commandments are not suggestions, they are serious. The commandments are so serious that after Moses came down from the mountain and saw the sin happening to the people he had left behind, he broke them. God then gave him the Commandments again!
The first three commandments all deal with the way we consider God. Do we put him first, do we blaspheme His name? Do we keep holy the Sabbath?
Here is a look at the Ten Commandments and ways to consider how you have sinned against God…
- I am the Lord thy God. Thou shalt not have strange gods before Me.
- Have I denied God in any way?
- Have I taken part in non-Christian ceremony or service?
- I have agreed with heretical or blasphemous anti-Christian literature?
- Have I been faithful in my prayer life?
- Have I made fun of God or His teachings?
- Have I presumed upon God’s mercy or doubted it?
- Have I placed more importance on any person or creature before God?
- Have I cared about material goods over God?
- Have I been guilty of irreverence – jokes or other conversations that are anti-God.
- Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
- Have I sworn against God?
- Have I complained against God?
- Have I broken a vow made to God?
- Have I angered others so that it makes them swear against God?
- Have I blasphemed?
- Remember that thou keep holy the Sabbath day.
- Have I missed Mass or church?
- Have I been distracted during church?
- Have I been late to church or left early (not due to an emergency).
- Have I made others miss church?
- Have I done unnecessary work on Sunday?
- Have I bought or sold things not of necessity on Sunday?
- Honor thy father and thy mother.
- Have I been disrespectful or disobedient to my parents?
- Have I been irreverent to others in positions of authority?
- Have mistreated my spouse or children?
- Have I mistreated the elderly, the infirmed or the handicapped?
- Have I been disobedient or disrespectful of a loved one, a family member?
- Have I been disrespectful or irreverent toward the clergy or someone in authority to God.
- Thou shalt not kill
- Have I desired or hastened the death of someone, or caused bodily injury to another person?
- Have I oppressed or did I seek revenge on another person?
- Did I cause others to fight?
- Have I argued with another(s)?
- Did I injure anyone else?
- Have I been jealous, envious, entertained evil thoughts or hatred against another?
- Have I entertained thoughts of suicide, etc.
- Do I abuse my body in any way?
- Have I harmed my soul by intentional exposure to temptations?
- Thou shalt not commit adultery.
- Have I abused my role in my marriage, (marital rights, practicing birth control, or other contraception such as sterilization?)
- Have I committed sins against purity?
- Have watched indecent movies or internet photos, etc.?
- As a single person have I had sex outside of marriage.
- Have I worn suggestive clothing, or had thoughts that were impure.
- Have I used indecent language, told indecent jokes.
- Have I prayed at once to banish bad thoughts or intentions?
- Thou shalt not steal
- Have I stolen anything?
- Have I damaged or been negligent with someone else’s property?
- Have I refused to repay debt?
- Have I cheated my employer or employees?
- Have I cheated or defrauded anyone?
- Have I gambled to the point that it is an obsession?
- Have I refused to pay a bill
- Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
- Have I lied against anyone, causing them harm, spiritually or materially, or ruined their name?
- Have I judged others without evidence?
- Have I gossiped about other people even if it is true?
- Have I been uncharitable in my talk or actions against another?
- Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife.
- Have I wanted someone who is otherwise committed?
- Have I had unpure thoughts about someone else?
- Have I remained alone in another’s company unnecessarily of the opposite sex that is a temptation to me?
- Have I been in lewd company and listened to indecent jokes or stories?
- Have I boasted or taken delight in past sins?
- Have I caused others to sin?
- Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s goods.
- Have I wanted something belonging to someone else?
- Have I acquired something I know is stolen?
- Have I failed to return something I borrowed?
- Have I neglected to help someone in need?
- Have I failed to make restitution for something I’ve taken?
These sins all boil down to sins of pride, vanity, envy, lust, anger, covetousness, envy, laziness or apathy, gluttony… they lead to boasting, duplicity, ambition over others, contempt for others, anger, and resentment and revenge, stubbornness and obstinacy.
Yes, I feel convicted in researching this and sharing this podcast with all of you to change my own life for the better.
Let’s Pray!
Dear Lord Jesus, I come to you sinful and sorrowful and I ask that You help me through an infilling of the Holy Spirit to stay on the path that leads to You. I know Lord this path is difficult but with Your Divine help I know You will be with me every step of the way. Dear Jesus help keep me from pride, envy, lust, anger, covetousness, envy, laziness, apathy or gluttony. Please help me to do what is right and to hunger for righteousness. I thank you for all the ways You have intervened in my life and I give you permission to be a greater part of my life. Thank you and praise You Jesus! And, I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.
The post 10 Commandments Conscience Check appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Freedom of Forgiveness | Some Women PodcastShownotes:
In this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Sara Ford in sharing personal experiences with forgiveness.
Sara is married, a mother of two, and the grandmother of two granddaughters. She has lived in Las Vegas since late 2007. She attended Magnificat Meals for 20+ years and is a past CST member. She currently serves on the Formation Team and is the Chapter Coordinator for the Las Vegas Magnificat Chapter, aka Our Lady of Miracles Chapter.
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Shownotes:
In this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Sara Ford in sharing personal experiences with forgiveness.
Sara is married, a mother of two, and the grandmother of two granddaughters. She has lived in Las Vegas since late 2007. She attended Magnificat Meals for 20+ years and is a past CST member. She currently serves on the Formation Team and is the Chapter Coordinator for the Las Vegas Magnificat Chapter, aka Our Lady of Miracles Chapter.
The post The Freedom of Forgiveness | Some Women Podcast appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Speaker ForumIn this dynamic panel discussion moderated by Bishop Toups, Catholic leaders and lay speakers share profound insights on living the Gospel authentically, navigating family struggles, and the power of spiritual discernment. The conversation centers on the “squeezed” moments of life—how our true nature as Christians is revealed during times of suffering and pressure.
Key Discussion Points
- The “Squeezed” Analogy: Bishop Toups poses a vital question: When life “squeezes” you through suffering or stress, what comes out? Is it the “scent of the Gospel” or something that repels others?
- Authentic Witness in the Home: Janice Charbonnet reflects on how children don’t need perfect parents; they need to see parents who respond to suffering with faith, prayer, and a strong sacramental marriage.
- The Power of “Normalcy”: Sister Briege McKenna shares humorous stories from her travels, emphasizing that joy, common sense, and being “normal” are often more effective tools for evangelization than formal preaching.
- Transform or Remove: Carol Razza introduces a powerful prayer for difficult relationships and situations: “Lord, transform this person/situation, or remove it.” This prayer acknowledges God’s sovereignty in bringing about the best outcome for all involved.
- Practical Discernment: The panel discusses how to hear God’s voice—whether through the “illumination” of silence in Adoration or the persistent guidance of the Holy Spirit in daily decisions.
Memorable Quotes
“Perfection is not the goal… what’s more important is how Mom and Dad are responding [to suffering] through the lens of faith.” — Janice Charbonnet
“If you love Jesus and if you have a good sense of humor and common sense, it’s amazing what Jesus can do.” — Sister Briege McKenna
“Take people where they are and bring them along. Love them where they are.” — Bishop Toups
The post Speaker Forum- Rise and Walk Conference 2025 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The greatest prayer that Jesus prayed is not what you think. In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz explains the High Priestly Prayer and how we can use this to grow closer to the Lord each day.
The Greatest Prayer: John 17 Episode 373High Priestly Prayer & Obedience to God’s Will | A Few Minutes with God
What if the greatest prayer Jesus ever prayed could transform your daily relationship with God?
In Episode 373 of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz explores the High Priestly Prayer of John 17—known as the longest and most profound prayer recorded in Scripture. While the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) gives us a perfect model, John 17 reveals Jesus interceding directly for Himself, for His disciples, and for every believer who would come after them.
What Is the Greatest Prayer in the Bible?In the Gospels, we see Jesus modeling prayer again and again. He taught His disciples the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6, a beautiful, concise prayer we often pray daily. Yet there is another prayer of Jesus that stands out as the longest and, many believe, the greatest recorded prayer in the entire New Testament. It’s found in John 17—the High Priestly Prayer Jesus prayed in the upper room the night before His arrest.
Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer in John 17 ExplainedYou’ll discover three key movements of this prayer: Jesus’ request for glorification and unity with the Father, His heartfelt plea for protection and sanctification of His disciples, and His powerful prayer for the oneness of all future believers “so that the world may believe.” (John 17:21, RSVCE)
This episode is an invitation to pray with Jesus, to let His words shape your heart, and to walk more closely with the Lord who intercedes for you every day.
Three Key Movements of the High Priestly Prayer of JesusFirst, Jesus prays for Himself. He asks the Father to glorify the Son so the Son may glorify the Father. He speaks of completing the work the Father gave Him to do. In that moment of obedience and surrender, we see the perfect unity between Father and Son.
Second, Jesus prays for His disciples. He asks the Father to keep them in His name, to protect them from the evil one, and to sanctify them in truth. He knows they will face trials in the world, yet He does not ask that they be taken out of the world—only that they be kept faithful.
Third, Jesus prays for all of us—every future believer. He prays for our unity so that the world may believe. What a profound invitation! Jesus wants us to share in the very love and oneness He enjoys with the Father.
How Obedience Becomes Your Best Daily PrayerFor me, the takeaway is that our best prayer is obeying the Lord. That is the greatest gift we can give God. By obeying the Lord we are living in His will. I’ve prayed so many times to be in God’s will, yet in my heart I often know what that looks like and still ignore it. I get busy with the things of the day and forget that the main to-do each morning is spending time in prayer.
We are also called to be obedient, as we are able, to the laws that do not contradict moral decency and Christian principle. This includes those difficult areas many of us overlook—such as living together out of wedlock. It has become commonplace, but it is not God’s design for us.
God gives us the model of a prayer life, obedience to Him, and the mission to share the good news with others. How can we keep this to ourselves? We must live, as much as we are able, like the disciples who glorify God through faithful obedience and bring others to Christ. We can begin by praying for those who are lost, those who do not yet know the Lord. Ask Him for the strength to be bold and to cherish every moment in prayer. This is the closest we get to heaven on earth. May God be blessed today and always.
Practical Takeaway: Living in God’s Will Through Prayer and ObedienceOpen your Bible to John 17 this week. Read even a few verses daily and pray them back to the Father. You’ll be amazed at the peace and closeness you experience.
Related Episodes You’ll Love from A Few Minutes with God* Discerning God’s Will ~ A Few Minutes with God * Listening to the Lord ~ A Few Minutes with God * Faith in Action ~ A Few Minutes with God * Overcoming Hopelessness ~ A Few Minutes with God * Praying for a Friend ~ A Few Minutes with God
Be infilled, entertained, and equipped as you press play today.
Share this episode with a friend who longs to pray more deeply and live in God’s will, and subscribe so the next A Few Minutes with God finds you right when you need it.
All Scripture quotes are from the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE).
Be infilled. Be entertained. Be equipped. Then go live the prayer Jesus prayed for you
The post The Greatest Prayer appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Sunday Mass with Bishop David ToupsTheme: Rise, Walk, and Run: Becoming the Good Samaritan
Presider: Most Reverend David L. Toups, Bishop of the Diocese of Beaumont
In this moving conclusion to the conference, Bishop David Toups presides over the Sunday Eucharist, centering his homily on the profound call of the Good Samaritan. Drawing from the Gospel of Luke and the first reading from Deuteronomy, Bishop Toups challenges us to move beyond “ignoring” those on the peripheries and instead to adopt the “Holy Spirit heart” of Christ.
He shares vulnerable, personal stories—from his own moments of missed connection to his ministry in the Diocese of Beaumont and recent mission work in Cambodia—to illustrate that the Word of God is not “too mysterious or remote,” but is already in our hearts, waiting to be lived out.
Key Takeaways* The Anatomy of Compassion: Bishop Toups breaks down the actions of the Good Samaritan: having an open heart, approaching the victim proactively, and practicing “sacrificial generosity” by pouring oil and wine to heal. * Seeing Christ in the “Least”: A reminder that Jesus is both the Samaritan who rescues us and the “man left half-dead” on the side of the road. To serve the lonely, the immigrant, and the suffering is to minister directly to Christ. * The Power of Recognition: Sometimes, being a neighbor is as simple as acknowledging someone’s human dignity—a smile, a prayer, or a moment of eye contact can be a profound act of mercy. * “Go and Do Likewise”: The Mass ends not with a conclusion, but a commission. We are called to “rise, walk, and run” into the world to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Notable Quotes“The Gospel should sting all of our consciences… Jesus is showing us how to live and how to love.”
“Treat them with the human dignity that they deserve… Have the heart and mind of Christ at the store, on the road, at work, and in our ministries.”
The post Rise, Walk, and Run: Becoming the Good Samaritan – Bishop David Toups Sunday Homily appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Feeling unworthy of God or God’s love? You’re not alone. In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, Felice Gerwitz explores God’s mercy and how it transforms our hearts. Learn how to overcome feelings of inadequacy with these powerful scriptures and practical steps. Don’t miss this uplifting message—read on and share with a friend!
Unworthy of God? Discover His Boundless Mercy ~ Episode 353Welcome, friends, to a reflection inspired by the latest episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast! Today, we’re tackling a topic that many of us know well: feeling unworthy of God. If you’ve ever felt like you fall short or wondered if God could possibly love you despite your flaws, this post is for you. Let’s explore the beauty of God’s mercy and how it lifts us up, no matter where we are. If you love this message, please share it with a friend and subscribe to the podcast for weekly encouragement! I also want to remind you to take out your Bible and prayer journal if you have one.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
Do You Feel Unworthy of God?As a Christian, I often wonder if God is frustrated with me. I try to serve Him through prayer and obedience, but let’s be honest—I’m human, and I stumble. Maybe you feel the same way. You want to live for God, but those moments of doubt or failure creep in, making you feel insignificant. The good news? God doesn’t need our perfection; He desires our hearts. His mercy is boundless, and it’s available to us every single day. Praise God for that! Every day is a new day.
There are four powerful scriptures that remind me of God’s love and mercy, even when I feel unworthy, which is often. As I get older I feel less worthy, but the good news is that when this happens I rebuke it in the precious Name of God! The enemy does not want us to think or believe that God is merciful, and often this misinformation creeps in. So, today I’ll share practical ways to embrace His grace and love into your daily life.
Scripture 1: God’s Mercy Is SteadfastLet’s begin with a verse that shows us the character of the Almighty God. In Psalm 103:8, we read:
“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
This verse is a reminder that God isn’t quick to judge or condemn us. Yet He is a merciful and just God. He is there, waiting for us, ready to meet us no matter where we are in our faith walk. Maybe you are just getting started in your faith journey, or maybe you’ve been on this road a long time. Either way, we can feel like we have fallen short. When you feel unworthy, hold onto this truth: God’s love for you is unwavering.
Application: Write down Psalm 103:8 and place it somewhere you’ll see it daily, like your mirror or workspace. Let it remind you of God’s patience and love.
Scripture 2: You Are Valued by GodIn my little corner of the world, I sometimes feel so small. But God sees me, and He sees you. Our efforts, no matter how small, matter to Him. Luke 12:7 says:
“Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
God knows every detail about you. You are never insignificant in His eyes. When feelings of unworthiness creep in, remember that you are precious to Him. I love this verse because it reminds me that we are not only important, but we are seen. That is a big buzzword right now: “feeling seen” and recognized for who we are. But how much more important is it to be the person God created you to be? And how wonderful that God sees us. Sure, we all need to improve, yet He is there waiting.
Application: Take a moment to thank God for His personal love for you. Journal about a time when you felt seen or valued by Him. If you can’t think of anything, thank Him for the gift of life!
Scripture 3: God is WaitingCan you believe that? God is waiting for you and me? And the best thing is we don’t have to earn His love. The image of the Father running to us, as in the Prodigal Son, or Jesus knocking at the door, waiting for us to invite Him in, reminds us of His relentless love.
A fitting verse is Revelation 3:20
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”
This verse beautifully captures the imagery of Jesus, knocking at the door of our hearts, waiting for us to open it. The handle is on our side, symbolizing our free will to invite Him in. God’s love is always there, but He waits for us to respond, to show we care by opening our hearts to Him. When we do, He doesn’t just enter—He comes to dwell with us, sharing an intimate relationship. God is a gentleman. He doesn’t push Himself on us; instead, He is patient and kind.
This scripture reminds us that even when we feel unworthy, God’s arms are open wide. We don’t have to earn His love; we simply need to turn to Him. For more on God’s constant presence, check out my episode Not Abandoned, where I explore how God never leaves us.
Application: Take a moment to pray and ask Jesus to help you open the door of your heart. Journal about what it means to you to know He’s waiting to come in.
Scripture 4: Mercy Brings New LifeFinally, let’s look at Ephesians 2:4-5:
“But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.”
God’s mercy doesn’t just bring us forgiveness. It gives us new life, a spiritual life of abundance and grace. When you feel like you’ve failed, His grace restores you. This is the heart of the Gospel! God’s love for us is renewed daily and when we are open to it, wonderful things happen.
Application: Each morning, pray a simple prayer of gratitude for God’s mercy. Ask Him to help you live in the freedom of His love.
How to Respond to God’s MercySo, how do we live in light of this incredible mercy? For me, it’s through prayer and striving to obey God’s teachings, even when I don’t get it right which is more times than I care to admit. Another verse, 1 John 1:9, offers hope:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
This verse is like a reset button. When we mess up, we can come to God, confess our sins, and trust in His forgiveness. Feeling unworthy doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love—it’s an invitation to lean into His mercy. How often? Daily.
Next Steps:
- Pray: Spend a few minutes each day thanking God for His mercy. Use my book, A Few Minutes with God, for guided reflections.
- Journal: Write about how God’s mercy has shown up in your life. What scriptures encourage you?
- Connect: Join our A Few Minutes with God Facebook group (facebook.com/groups/AFewMinutesWithGod) to share prayer requests and praise reports.
More Encouragement from A Few Minutes with GodIf this message resonated with you, I invite you to listen to the full podcast episode, Unworthy of God, at ultimateradioshow.com. For more on God’s constant presence, check out these favorite episodes:
- Not Abandoned: Discover how God never leaves you, even when you feel far from Him.
- Calm in the Storm: Learn how God’s peace sustains you through challenges.
These episodes, along with others at The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, are designed to encourage your faith journey.
Let’s Pray TogetherLet’s close with a prayer: Lord, thank You for Your mercy that never fails. When I feel unworthy, remind me of Your love and forgiveness. Help me to trust in Your grace and live for You each day. Amen.
Thank you for joining me, friends! I pray this post has encouraged you to embrace God’s mercy and let go of feelings of unworthiness. If it blessed you, please share it with a friend and follow us on Instagram. For more resources, visit mediaangels.com.
Call to Action: Subscribe to A Few Minutes with God Podcast on Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast app. Let’s grow in faith together!
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Rise and Walk – Sister Briege McKenna, OSCIn this powerful and humorous episode, Sister Briege McKenna shares her extraordinary journey from a “stubborn as a mule” young nun in Ireland to a world-renowned minister of healing. With her trademark wit and deep spiritual insight, Sister Briege reflects on her 65 years of religious life and the transformative power of saying “yes” to God’s unconventional plans.
Key Highlights* The Miracle at 24: Sister Briege recounts her instantaneous healing from crippling rheumatoid arthritis during the Eucharist—a moment that changed the trajectory of her life forever. * The Gift of Healing: Discover the “Hound of Heaven” story of how she resisted the gift of healing, fearing it was too sensational, only to have God confirm her calling through a series of undeniable encounters. * Writing Your Own Gospel: Sister Briege challenges every listener to move beyond “remote control” Catholicism. She explains that through our Baptism, we are called to be “walking scriptures,” writing the Gospel according to our own lives. * The Grace of Courage: Reflecting on the theme “Rise and Walk,” she emphasizes that spiritual growth requires the courage to fail, get back up, and trust in God’s infinite patience. * Unique Personalities in Grace: Using the analogy of water filling different shaped bottles, she explains how the Holy Spirit fits into our individual personalities rather than forcing us into a mold.
Memorable Quotes“Every one of us is supposed to be the walking scriptures of today. We are living in the Acts of the Apostles because we are the apostles.”
“Gifts don’t make you holy… gifts are to bring glory to God, not to yourself.”
The post Rise and Walk – Sister Briege McKenna, OSC appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Pleasing God – Episode 183Pleasing God is easier than you think! Is there any way that we can be pleasing to God? Is there anything we can do to earn God’s love? Is this something we should even attempt? In this podcast, we will discuss several ways.
Thanks to our sponsor… CTCMath – this is a curriculum company that can help a child to really understand and learn math in a way that will not bog them down! Visit CTCMath.com for a free lesson and pass this on to a friend.
Okay – pleasing God, can you do it? Should you do it? IS this attainable. Pleasing God seems like a formidable task. But the good news is if you do not believe in God is that you can’t.
Hebrews 11: 6 states … And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
So, let’s say for the sake of argument you want to please God … the first place to begin is with your relationship.
When you look at our relationship with God what do you think? If you can stop this audio to think about this for a minute please do… okay so what came to mind as you considered this question?
Maybe you said:
- Pleasing God is doing what is right and just.
- Pleasing God is not doing anything I want to do.
- Pleasing God means having self-control.
- Pleasing God is impossible. Or…
- Pleasing God is like is like trying to please a parent.
When we talk about faith there is room for feelings and for some of us, we feel like we are a lost cause and swimming against the flow. Here is the thing…
When was the last time you tried to please a parent? As a parent (if you are one) when was the last time your child did something that was pleasing for you?
We don’t think in those terms, do we? We do not act out of respect, or concern or even of love just to please someone we do it just because. If we love someone we want them to be happy, we want to share the love we have for them with time, with gifts or with giving of ourselves. When we love God how do we show the Almighty our love for Him? This may be something you have never considered before because we are so caught up on the Thou Shall Nots instead of the amazing gift of life and freedom that God has given to us.
When we look at the Fall – the Garden of Eden and the beautiful world God created without sin, we only see the sin – we think about that tree – of Good and Evil. God did not want us to suffer, He wanted us to live in paradise. And, we hope and we pray that this is what heaven is – a paradise that has been created for the righteous which can only be justified by the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Christ asks us to turn from sin and to follow Him. That’s it.
That is why Hebrews 11:6 starts by laying the groundwork of faith. Praising God isn’t as hard if our faith is at the center, and with faith comes what? The Holy Spirit is our guide. Not in the new age way of spirit God, please!! Heaven forbid. But in the third person of the Trinity – sent by God – After Jesus rose from the dead and spent time with the various disciples and Mary his mother and Mary Magdelene he rose up to heaven. We read about this in Acts 1-9 [on air]
God sent his Spirit – and this was called Pentecost. Today, we can receive the Holy Spirit into our hearts, in church Sacramentally or in prayer. Again we read about this in 1 John 3:24
We know by the Spirit HE gave us!
When we think about things in our life we can see that pleasing God is not as difficult as we think. Think about the joys of your life. Are you content? Is there an issue in your life if it could be handled or changed that would make you happy? Or how about happier? Of course, in each of our lives, there is something that could add to our happiness. But, the true things that bring us happiness are the things that money can not buy. Buying more things usually brings a short-term happiness, contentment or joy but not long-term!
Romans 8:9
You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.
Pleasing God starts with faith and after that, it is way easier than you think – pleasing God is something we want to do – no, we crave doing because of our relationship with HIM – there is an old saying about trying to outgive God, we can’t. It is impossible, the more we give God the more we receive.
Lately, my life has been filled with miracles some big and small – one is a serious surgery we thought my husband would need concerning his spine – not only is the surgery unnecessary, but the doctor’s words were…. Well, you had a serious problem, but your body healed itself. Wow, how does that happen? It is a miracle. And the small things like a toothache and when calling that day, an opening for a dentist appointment was available later in the afternoon. That never happens!
Pleasing God, friends is living our lives and worshiping the creator and it can’t get any better than that!
Let’s pray. Dear Lord thank you for all the blessings and the miracles that surround us each and every day, those we see and those that happen in our lives without us even knowing. I praise you and I thank you and I ask that you help me to be pleasing to my family, my friends, and most of all to you dear God. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. We praise you and are in awe of your gifts. Dear Lord, I ask for the following needs: and I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
The post Pleasing God appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
For Ultimate Christian Podcast Network
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 17, Elyse O’Kane – Heavenly Melodies through Praise & WorshipMagnificat® Ministry presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Elyse O’Kane, a former speech therapist and reading tutor, explains her faith journey. Raised a practicing church-going Catholic, during her college years, Elyse began questioning her faith and attending Mass was no longer a priority, only to return when she was inspired and tended to by a group of ministering women who helped her through a difficult pregnancy and then experienced a miracle.
Elyse has witnessed many miracles in her life. One day, in 1991, a melody inspired by Mother Mary’s Magnificat came to her spontaneously after Mass, and it has since been used in many Magnificat Chapters and churches across the United States. Elyse has continued to compose and write music, including two CDs, “With all my Heart” and “A Time to Heal.” In addition to writing music, she is involved in the ministry of intercessory prayer and healing and enjoys speaking to groups about her faith journey. Elyse is married to her husband, John O’Kane, and they have three grown sons and daughters-in-law, and seven grandchildren.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Watch the video presentationPlease SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s PodcastsWatch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
The Magnificat® Ministry Podcast is also heard on EWTN’s Podcast Central (scroll to our Podcast Icon) on this page: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/other-podcasts
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About Magnificat® MinistryFounded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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From Diagnosis to Deliverance: Testimony of Floredenis BrownPrincipal of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary-St. Richard Catholic SchoolIn this powerful and high-energy testimony, Floredenis Brown shares her journey of defying the “lies of the enemy” through radical faith. Born with sickle cell anemia and later diagnosed with lupus, Floredenis was told by doctors that higher education was unlikely and motherhood was impossible.
Today, she stands as a wife of 20 years, a mother of two “miracle” boys, and a decorated educational leader holding four degrees. Floredenis recounts her “falling in love” moment with Jesus at a Magnificat luncheon and how that relationship fueled her to navigate high-risk pregnancies, NICU scares, and professional shifts. This episode is a masterclass in replacing panic with prayer and standing on the promises of God when the world says “no.”
Watch the video presentation.
Key Takeaways* The “Lover of My Soul”: Floredenis describes the pivotal moment she moved from a “sacramental” faith to a personal, charismatic relationship with the Holy Spirit. * Defying Medical Reports: Hear the miraculous story of how she was healed of lupus and how her son—once labeled a “vegetable” by doctors—became a gifted student leader. * The Principle of Multiplication: How God turned a career in public education into a calling to lead and “clean house” in Catholic schools, bringing the Holy Spirit back to the forefront of the classroom. * Faith Over Fear: Practical encouragement on how to maintain peace during “911 moments,” including a chilling story about a school intruder drill and the peace that surpasses understanding.
Notable Quotes“The devil said I couldn’t have it, but God had His way… I don’t care what diagnosis that doctor gave me. Doctor Jesus said I’m going to be a mommy.”
“I am going to be the Jesus freak of the century because that’s the biggest compliment you could ever give me—that I am in love with the lover of my soul.”
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Remember, peace works against fear, it really does, and we must unite as Christians against the bombardment of fear that permeates our airwaves. Fear is one of the mechanisms that can keep us in bondage. In this podcast, I’ll share how peace works against fear, and in the Name of Jesus, we can be shielded and protected.
Peace Works Against Fear ~ Episode 372Fear is one of the enemy’s most effective tools to keep us in bondage, but the peace of Christ Jesus shatters its hold. In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, we explore how God’s peace actively works against fear, shielding and protecting us in His holy Name.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
The Influx of Fear in Our Daily LivesInboxes and headlines often direct our attention to topics that stir anxiety. Recent years (especially 2021–2023) brought isolation, loss, confusion, and psychological pressure that many still feel today. History will judge this era harshly, yet the daily drip of bad news continues. Bad news sells, but it robs us of peace. Our bodies remain in a constant state of fight-or-flight when we consume fear-driven media.
As Christians, we are called to something greater. Peace is not the absence of trouble—it is the presence of Jesus Christ in our hearts. Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18), and God offers us that perfect peace. Yet, it is easier said than done! Getting the head knowledge down to the heart is another issue altogether. Stress seems to follow me around, and it translates into a feeling of doom when I don’t allow myself the time to pray to attend Mass or, at the very least, thank and praise God.
If you can make a list of your favorite Bible verses that focus on peace. You can refer to this in your prayer journal when you are overwhelmed. If you don’t have a prayer journal, start one today. It doesn’t have to be massive. It can be a small book with a side pen that doesn’t take up much room. I take mine to church to jot down notes and highlight Bible verses I want to read later. This is, once again, a great reference for the times I forget that God is with me. I’ve listed five in my show notes. Use those as a jumping-off point and list five of your own.
Scripture Verses: Peace Works Against FearHere are powerful truths from God’s Word to arm you:
- 1 John 4:18 — “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and he who fears is not perfected in love.”
- John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
- Isaiah 41:10 — “Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.”
- Philippians 4:6-7 — “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
- Psalm 27:1 — “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
A list of Bible verses is not empty words—they are living promises. Take them to heart through daily prayer and meditation.
Two Simple Actions This Week to Replace Fear with Peace1. Examine Your Routine: Identify what robs you of peace—news feeds, certain conversations, social media, or worries about the future. Replace those triggers with thanksgiving and uplifting content from trusted sources. I have my favorites; once again, make a list of your own. 2. Seek the Lord Daily: Ask Him each morning to direct your path, fill you with joy, and shield you from fear. Praise and worship lift us into the heavenly realm even in our homes. Try playing Gregorian Chant or sacred music in the background—notice the shift in your spirit.
Thanking the Lord daily for His blessings is a powerful weapon against fear. In this podcast, I’m focusing more on external forces that rob us of our peace and joy.
Why This Matters TodayIn a world pushing fear as a constant companion, we can choose the peace that surpasses understanding. I reject the spirit of fear in the precious Name of the Lord, and I can embrace the joy of the Lord! Does that always work to restore my peace and joy? No, but I will fight for it daily. I know that my prayers matter. I know that God hears me. I know, that I know, that I know that He died for me, rose from the dead in three days and is reigning in heaven. This temporary world is a place I can live, but ultimately my goal is heaven. Therefore, I know that while I pray, I must avoid the needless bombardment of fear-mongering and lies, so that I can keep my eyes more fully on Him.
Dear Lord, I pray for those listening today that you fill them with discernment to root out the lies of the enemy, to focus on the ways that the enemy has deceived them, and to give them the strength and fortitude to turn to you in times of need. I come against the spirit of fear in the Name of Jesus and ask You, Lord, to send Your angels to combat it alongside us. And I pray this in Jesus Name. Amen.
Listen to the full episode on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network and share it with someone battling anxiety. God’s peace is available to you right now.
More Encouragement from A Few Minutes with God Podcast* Combating Fear – Practical tools from Scripture to fight fear. * Overcoming Fear – Finding victory in Christ amid uncertainty. * Faith Overcomes Fear – Living boldly through trust in God. * Cure For Fear – Weapons and tools from Almighty God. * Peace of Mind – Restoring calm through prayer and trust.
May the Lord bless you with His unshakable peace. Spend a few minutes with God today—He is waiting. Until next time, walk in faith, not fear.
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Walking in Your Anointing – Janice CharbonnetIn this warm and practical session, Janice Charbonnet—a missionary, mother of five, and leader in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal—shares how to move from a spirit of timidity to a life of “holy swagger.” Drawing on her personal journey from a “Sunday Catholic” to a bold proclaimer of the Gospel, Janice explains that anointing is not about personal talent, but about resting in the Father’s love.
Janice uses the imagery of “New Shoes” and “The Gaze” to illustrate how we can walk out our unique callings. Whether you are leading a ministry team or serving at a local breakfast, Janice provides actionable tips for staying “in the gaze” of Christ to avoid the trap of self-critical “mirror-gazing.” This episode is a call to put down the magnifying mirror of insecurity and step through the doors of newness God is opening for you.
Watch on Vimeo
Key Takeaways* The Spirit of Aaron: Just as God provided Aaron to speak for Moses, He provides us with the specific graces and “pitch-hitters” we need to overcome our fears. * Humility vs. Timidity: Humility is recognizing that everything good in us comes from God. Timidity is an insecurity that actually hinders the Kingdom. * The Power of Praise: In ministry meetings, Janice advises “hitting the road running” with praise. Praise isn’t a feeling; it’s the vehicle that brings you into the “Throne Room” of the King. * “Papa Said I Can”: Evangelization is simply “one beggar showing another beggar where they found bread.” Your authority to share the Gospel comes directly from your identity as a beloved child of God.
Memorable Quotes“The timidity and the insecurity have to die, because it’s not serving God and it’s not helping the Kingdom.”
“Put the magnified mirror down and get back in the gaze. Lock eyes with Christ; that’s the only reflection you need.”
Practical Tips for Service Teams1. Don’t Dilly-Dally: Start your meetings with immediate, high-energy praise to shift from a “situation room” mentality to a “throne room” reality. 2. Don’t Sit on Prophecy: In safe environments like team meetings, practice sharing small prophetic nudges. Don’t wait for “perfect” confirmation; help paint the full picture. 3. Lay Out a Fleece: For big decisions, give the Lord a specific timeframe (e.g., six months) to see if a desire grows or diminishes. 4. The 60-Second Rule: If a meeting gets stuck on small details, stop everything for one minute of silence to ask, “Lord, what do You want?”
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Who are the peacemakers? Are you a peacemaker, and do you find yourself in that role? What does the Holy Bible say? This podcast discusses being a peacemaker and how we can all strive to do our part.
Peacemakers ~ EpisodeSponsored by CTCMath.com
If you look up the word online, you will find that being a peacemaker is not a good thing. In all fairness, this information came from a search using the latest AI technology, artificial intelligence. There have always been computer programs that search for keywords and match websites with the words. However, the latest technology gives a synopsis of what is found in literal seconds, which needs to be corrected. One of the reasons is technology does not have a heart; a human element is missing.
My search showed me that a peacemaker is drawn to those who disagree and are typically worn out or frustrated, and it is a person who does not take care of themselves. While all of that can be correct, making a blanket statement in some people is not always good. It is said that peacemakers are not assertive. How can you be a peacemaker without speaking up and trying to see things from different sides? That requires diplomacy. Sure, not everyone is diplomatic, but it is a gift if you are. I try to see things from both sides outside my family, and the frustration comes when I can not understand an evil motivation. I can not computer things like abortion on demand or late-term abortion. In truth, I can not understand abortion at all, the killing of a life. In some states, legally. As one popular television personality said, he was for abortion. He agreed it was murder, and he said he could live with that thought and urged abortion advocates to embrace that terminology.
Wow. Our world is a place where evil is recognized and allowed. And we should all be okay with it—are you? We must pray, dear friends, because there is good news. The good news is that Jesus reigns now and forever, and evil has no hold over those who profess Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior (if they live holy and, in my case, sacramental lives).
When we discuss the word peace in a religious context, we are talking about a feeling that comes from an action. This can be caused by an action on our part, being in a quiet room, reading a scripture verse, and meditating on the meaning, which comes from God’s grace. However, a peacemaker can refrain from using words that can incite or cause problems or dissension. A peacemaker can see a situation that has gotten out of control and turn it around into one that is diffused, forcing those in disagreement to agree or compromise.
Recently, I watched someone do this effortlessly. This person took a volatile situation filled with misunderstanding and frustration and, in a few sentences, told each of those affected what the other was trying to say diplomatically. I was impressed. It caused me to think and consider the idea of being a peacemaker. Who are those who strive for peace, and how are they rewarded? As the scriptures tell us – we are told, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Wow! I want to be called a child of God.
I have to admit that I have not always been a peacemaker outside my family. It is sometimes easy to get others riled up, and it is under the guise of teasing, just having fun, or trying to make a point. I realized that it did more harm than good, and while I am not being specific here in my examples, I believe we can all look at our own lives and find situations where we could have used our words more effectively and in a way that would do good rather than harm.
Being a peacemaker is a good thing. In the Bible, we have Christ’s wonderful words when he was surrounded by the crowds. The Beatitudes contain words we should read daily (read on air).
These are words we should read daily. I remember reading these words back in my smart-aleck days and thinking, well, I’m no meek or humble; I’m in trouble! Friends, I was laughing at myself here and kidding around, but I had much work to do on my spiritual journey! It has been quite the journey, and the Lord is still working with me—praise you, Jesus!
Being a peacemaker in this world means making a conscious effort to examine your words, what you are saying, and how they impact the lives of others. Words matter. (More on air.)
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Episode: 03 Saturday Mass – Healing Power of Scars – Fr. Erik Villa
Title: Saturday Mass: Healing, Scars, and the Gift of Encounter
This special Saturday liturgy from the Magnificat Conference in Tampa is a profound exploration of healing, fraternity, and the providence of God. The session opens with a moving moment of solidarity as Bishop David Toups invites the assembly to pray for the families in his diocese grieving the victims of recent tragic floods in Texas.
In the homily, Fr. Erick Villa shares a deeply personal “testimony of magnification.” He reflects on his childhood in the Philippines, his 16-year separation from his mother, and the physical scars he carries from his youth. Fr. Erick reframes these marks not as signs of trauma, but as “reminders that the wounds actually healed.” Drawing parallels to the life of Joseph in Genesis, he encourages listeners to see how God intertwines our paths—even through betrayal and displacement—to fulfill a divine plan.
Key Takeaways
- Building the Body: Bishop Toups emphasizes the essential nature of the “lay priesthood,” noting that the love of the laity is what strengthens and holies the ordained clergy.
- Bitter or Better: Fr. Erick discusses the choice we face when dealing with dysfunctional pasts or family separations. He argues that our experiences can either harden us or prepare us for a unique mission.
- The Theology of Scars: Physical and emotional scars are proof of God’s healing power. They serve as a “normalizing” force that proves we have lived, struggled, and been restored.
- A “Global” Church: Fr. Erick highlights the beauty of the universal Church, sharing how a Vietnamese seminarian invited a Filipino to minister in the United States.
- Proclaiming from the Housetops: A call to live as “tangible expressions of love,” moving from the interior “domestic church” to the public square with boldness.
Scriptures Referenced
Genesis 49-50: The burial of Jacob and Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers (“Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good”).
Matthew 10:24-33: The call to fearlessness and the reminder that we are worth “more than many sparrows.”
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Combating FearPodcast # 27
Combating fear is something we all want. Do you worry about things? Join the club – don’t we all? But in this episode I am going to discuss fear, the result of worry and how we, as Christians, armed with the promises of God can combat the fear and turn it to victory!
Thanks to our sponsors, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins + CTCMath.com
Show Notes: Combating Fear
Fear gets us nowhere. It is a dead-end street that has us walking the same path again and again. It is the place that the enemy would like us to remain in because let’s face it — fear is a bondage. Fear is from the enemy.
2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.
Yet, God built us to fear if we sense danger. Fear does in essence help to protect us – if we sense something instinctively it can help us to survive. Fear is natural, it keeps us away from those things that could hurt us or bad choices.
The bible also tells us that “fear of the Lord is the beginning of all understanding,” how do we take that verse? What we fear is the judgment of the Lord. If you are a follower of Christ and want to do His will – you should not fear judgment, but you should remember it as you live your life.
God is our light – He is the guiding beacon in the midst of our fears. We can have the courage to deal with the things that happen in our lives and what that takes is praying to overcome the fear. Prayer and reading Scripture verses and memorizing some can help. Another help is using acronyms to help us.
When speaking about fear in the spiritual sense, when we allow worry to cloud our thoughts and overtake our lives realize we are giving the spirit of fear permission to reside in us. The first step is in renouncing the spirit of fear.
In the Name of Jesus, I come against the spirit of fear and I renounce it – I do not give fear dominion in my life. I break any chains of fear in my life and offer it to you, Lord. Lord, I give you permission to come into my life with joy, the joy that surpasses all understanding and that reigns in the knowledge that you are in control of my life.
Here are some wonderful scriptures to write in your journal under the title of “Combating Fear” and pray, say, and memorize these wonderful scriptures:
- 1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
- Proverbs 29:25: “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”
- Matthew 10:31 “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
- Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
- Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk in the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.”
- Psalm 91:14 – “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.”
- Romans 8:30-31 – “And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
- Psalm 118:6: “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
- Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation–whom shall I fear?”
- Luke 1:30: “But the angels said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.”
If you are fearful and have never repented of the spirit of fear, let’s pray! (Prayer at the end of the audio.)
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Exercising Your Gifts – Alicia HartleIn this powerful and personal presentation, Alicia Hartle, Executive Director of Pentecost Today USA, invites us to dive into the “deep end” of the Holy Spirit. Drawing from her unique upbringing in the “fire of the renewal” in Pittsburgh, Alicia explores the essential nature of charismatic gifts and the urgent need for every believer to move from stagnant waters to a life that is constantly poured out.
Key Highlights
- The Authority of the Gifts: Alicia grounds the exercise of charismatic gifts in the authority of Jesus Christ and the historical tradition of the early Church. She highlights that the Catholic Charismatic Renewal is not a peripheral movement but is formally integrated into the hierarchical structure of the Church.
- Stagnant vs. Living Water: Using a poignant metaphor of a pond from her childhood, Alicia warns against receiving sacramental graces without “pouring them out.” To remain spiritually fresh, we must exercise our gifts for the building up of the Church.
- Overcoming Barriers: Whether it’s fear of being “undignified,” past experiences with spiritual immaturity, or modern skepticism, Alicia encourages us to bring our lack of desire to the Lord and allow Him to transform it into zeal.
- A Call to New Evangelization: Alicia shares moving stories from her ministry, including her journey into Unbound Deliverance Ministry, emphasizing that the world is hungry for the supernatural reality of God’s love.
Memorable Quotes
“Some of these people know Jesus and some of these people do not… This too is our mission field.” — Alicia’s Father
“Why has no one ever told me that I could have a relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit like this?”
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What if you could open a “faith time capsule” and see exactly where your walk with the Lord began, and how far He has brought you? In this uplifting episode, Felice Gerwitz explores the Road to Emmaus, the power of reflection, and the unexpected ways Jesus shows up in our daily lives.
You’ll be encouraged to take inventory of your faith, realign your focus, and trust that God is still writing your story. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement, renewal, or a deeper appreciation for God’s faithfulness through every season. View many more podcasts on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network.
Faith Time Capsule: Reflecting on Your Faith Journey and Seeing God’s Hand Introduction: Your Faith Time CapsuleHave you ever wished you could go back in time and view your faith journey like a time capsule? What would you see? Would you notice big gains, faltering steps, or those quiet moments when God held you securely in the palm of His hand?
Today, I invite and challenge you to pause and reflect. Jesus often comes into our lives in the most unexpected ways, just as He did for the disciples on the Road to Emmaus. They walked right beside the risen Lord and didn’t recognize Him at first. Their eyes were prevented from seeing the obvious until He opened the Scriptures to them.(Luke 24:16)“But their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.”
When we read the Word of God, it enters our hearts in a powerful way, especially when we pray and ask the Lord for His help and guidance. I’ve caught myself reading the Bible or a Scripture passage, and I stop and re-read it again, because I don’t remember what I just read! This often happens if it is a familiar passage. When I stop and reread the passage, it is often impactful!
On the road to Emmaus, once the disciples recognized Jesus, He vanished, they said to one another: (Luke 24:32)
What are we overlooking in our own daily lives? Sometimes the best thing we can do is stop, take inventory, and let the Lord show us what truly matters. And sometimes that means rereading a Scripture passage and taking some time to quiet our hearts and let the words penetrate.
The Road to Emmaus: Eyes Opened to the UnexpectedThe disciples had been with Jesus for years, yet they still missed Him in their midst. How often does that happen to us? We rush through our days, focused on projects, tasks, and to-do lists, and fail to see the Lord walking beside us.
God’s presence is not dramatic. He meets us in the ordinary, sometimes in the very place where we feel most stuck. When we slow down and invite Him in, our hearts burn with recognition, just as the disciples’ did.
Taking Inventory: What Are We Overlooking?After my recent cataract surgery, I was forced to rest. For someone who is always moving from one project to the next, this “rest” felt harder than the procedure itself! Yet in those quiet moments of discomfort and recovery, I learned I wasn’t as patient as I thought. A tiny bit of physical challenge opened my eyes to how truly blessed I have been.
All of a sudden, things looked brighter. I didn’t realize that cataracts, which develop slowly over the years, can dull your vision. Things are whiter, and the world physically looks brighter. It made me consider what else in my spiritual life has been dulled through the years and ways I have been unaware of it. In this way, sin can dull our spiritual lives. When we allow sin to creep in, a small lie here, gossiping about our friend there, our souls become dull.
Instead of reaching for a spiritual book or listening to a spiritual topic, I go for the low fruit, something entertaining instead of challenging. Sometimes I’ll “assign” myself reading material, take an inventory of my bookshelves, pull off two or three books I’ve been meaning to read, and leave them in places where I will see them. This small thing helps me to achieve my goals without overthinking them.
In my downtime, God came to me in ways I would never have noticed if I hadn’t stopped to appreciate the healing process. He reminded me that even small trials can refine us. (James 1:2-4)
What about you? What is important in your life right now? Your focus reveals where your heart is right now, and today is the perfect time to take stock and make changes. Small changes, as I did.
A Personal Lesson in Rest, Healing, and God’s TimingDuring recovery, I realized how much I take for granted. Simple things like clear vision unexpectedly became reasons for gratitude. The Lord showed up in those quiet moments of discomfort, teaching me patience and trust in ways I never expected.
Faith doesn’t always increase steadily with age. It grows in different seasons—through joys, trials, surgeries, and ordinary days—when the Lord steps in exactly when we need Him most.
(Philippians 1:6)
(Jeremiah 29:11)
What Matters Most Now? Realigning Your FocusTake a moment today and ask: “Lord, what do You want me to see?” Seek first His kingdom, and everything else falls into place. (Matthew 6:33)
Favorite Verse: (Proverbs 3:5-6)
When we look back, we see God’s hand guiding us. Even through faltering steps, going against His will and His plans for us. He never abandons us.
Faith Increases in God’s Perfect TimingThe truth is that our faith grows precisely when we need it most. Whether you’re in a season of rest, recovery, or rapid growth, the Lord is there. When I was younger, I entered everything with great zeal and expectation. I can’t say much has changed other than slowing down. I still have great expectations, and you should too! God is there for us, and we can look to the Word of God for this affirmation.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
We walk by faith, not by sight, and yes, this verse takes on a whole new meaning for me now! 2 Corinthians 4:18
Open Your Faith Time Capsule TodayFriends, open your own faith time capsule this week. Look back with gratitude. Look forward with hope. Jesus is walking with you right now, just as He walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus. We know in our minds and our intellect that God will not forsake us yet we need to see this with our spiritual eyes as well.
Let’s pray together: Heavenly Father, I praise you and I thank you. Thank you is such a weak word for what I feel in my heart. I praise You for every step of my faith journey. Thank you for opening my eyes to see You in the unexpected. Help us to trust Your perfect will and Your perfect timing and allow us to seek Your kingdom first. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Thank you for spending time with me today. If this episode blessed you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your faith journey matters—God is not finished with you or me yet!
For more encouragement on your faith journey, check out these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Not Abandoned – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/not-abandoned/
- Trust in God – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/trust-in-god/
- Renew Your Mind – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/renew-your-mind/
- Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/faith-in-action/
- Your God Given Purpose – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/your-god-given-purpose/
Listen now on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network or your favorite podcast app.
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In this Episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie, and Pat are joined by Janice Charbonnet in sharing personal experiences showing the value of community to growth along the spiritual journey.
Janice was born and raised in Canada. She worked in various public relations positions across the country, ending with a position as PR coordinator for a Canadian politician. In 1996, she felt called to quit her job and serve as a missionary with NET Ministries, traveling with a team across the US preaching the Gospel to teenagers.
After a life-changing encounter with the writings of Pope John Paul II, the Holy Spirit put a passion deep in her heart for ministering to women.She serves on the women‘s team for the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans, speaks at marriage retreats with her husband, Jean, and loves to draw from her life as a mother of five children when teaching and preaching. She lives outside New Orleans, LA. She preaches freedom in the power of the Holy Spirit! Psalm 18:20 “He sent me free in the open; He rescued me because He loves me.”
About MagnificatFounded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
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Episode 03 – Dr. Carol Razza – Prayer MeetingIn this powerful session, Dr. Carol Razza—international evangelist, author, and retired professor at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary—leads a traditional prayer meeting centered on reclaiming our identity as children of God. Moving beyond the “counseling session” model, Dr. Razza refocuses the gathering on pure worship, teaching that when we prioritize Jesus, our burdens and brokenness naturally fall away. She challenges the “spectator” mentality and calls every believer to step into a life of supernatural fruitfulness.
Key Takeaways* What a Prayer Meeting Is (and Isn’t): A prayer meeting is for Jesus, not for us. It is a time for praise, worship, and building up the Body of Christ—not a therapy or discussion group. * The Power of Identity: We are “1 in 600 billion.” Dr. Razza emphasizes that understanding our identity as sons and daughters of the Most High is the only way to live an abundant life. Without this, we praise God through our wounds rather than the truth. * Supernatural DNA: As baptized Christians, the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in us. Our “natural” state should be the “supernatural.” * Spiritual Fruitfulness: Based on Genesis 1:28 and Matthew 25, we are created for increase. Dr. Razza argues that passivity is not an option; we must use our God-given gifts to glorify Him and expand the Kingdom. * Praying for the Priesthood: A call to action for the laity to pray for priests and seminarians to be baptized in the Holy Spirit, empowering them to lead the Church into “the deep.”
Scripture References* Joshua 3:4-5: “You have not passed this way before… Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” * John 20:21-22: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” * Galatians 5:22-23: The Fruits of the Spirit. * John 15:16: “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you to go forth and bear fruit.”
About Dr. Carol RazzaDr. Carol Razza is a psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience and a long-time faculty member at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary. She is the author of SONblock and Parent Me, Please, and serves on the advisory team for the International Magnificat Ministry.
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Many people exercise their bodies but not their souls. Strengthening your faith takes time and effort, similar to getting into physical shape. In this podcast we explore ways to enhance your faith journey.
Strengthening Your Faith ~ Episode 370Welcome back to A Few Minutes with God Podcast! In a recent episode, we explored how to put our faith into action—living it out through love, service, and sharing the Good News.
Today, Episode 370 dives deeper into Strengthening Your Faith. How do we build a faith that is not only active but also deep, resilient, and unshakable? That is the vital question we should ask ourselves.
Faith is like a muscle—it grows stronger with use, yet it also requires daily nourishment and spiritual discipline. Whether your faith has wavered in difficult seasons or you long to draw closer to Christ, strengthening your faith is a lifelong journey that equips you to live out His call with courage and joy.
The Foundation of Faith: Assurance in the UnseenScripture gives us the very definition of faith. In Hebrews 11:1 (RSVCE), we read: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This verse shows us that our trust in God’s promises is important even when the path ahead is hidden. True faith is not blind; it is rooted in the living God who never fails. Read the entire chapter of Hebrews 11; it recaps the faith throughout Biblical history, with Enoch and Abraham as examples for us. The idea of faith isn’t new, and sadly, the faith placed in politicians, athletes, or actors is a distraction.
Deepening Your Faith Through PrayerOne of the most powerful ways to strengthen faith is through prayer—not just a list of requests, but a heartfelt conversation with the Lord. Prayer draws us into His presence and reminds us He is always near. Taking the time, just a few minutes (or longer) a day, exercises your spiritual muscle.
I remember a spiritually dry season when life felt overwhelming, and my prayers became routine. Through an inspiration which I can only attribute to the Holy Spirit, I committed to just five quiet minutes each morning, sitting with God and listening. No fanfare, no charts or books, or a checklist of what I expected to happen. Just a blank journal, a Bible, and time. Over a period of dedicated time, His peace filled my heart. As Philippians 4:6-7 (RSVCE) encourages: “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Illuminating Your Path with God’s WordAnother essential key is immersing ourselves in Scripture. Psalm 119:105 (RSVCE) declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Even one verse a day can transform our outlook. Try reading the Gospel of John slowly—one chapter daily—asking the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. The Bible is God’s living Word that reveals His truth, love, and perfect plan. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (RSVCE) reminds us: “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
Consider these words. They are not just “nice” or “encouraging, they are true! God’s Word is a lamp; all scripture is inspired! God is here today just for you and for me. He is here waiting for us to give Him the time He rightly deserves.
Growing Stronger in CommunityWe are not meant to walk this journey alone. Surrounding yourself with fellow believers—through your parish, a Bible study, or a prayer group—builds encouragement and accountability. I once joined a small faith-sharing group at my parish, and hearing others’ stories of struggle and victory inspired me to persevere. I’ve recently joined another monthly prayer group, and it, too, has encouraged me to grow in faith.
Proverbs 27:17 (RSVCE) tells us, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Even more beautifully (if that is possible), Hebrews 10:24-25 (RSVCE) urges: “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.”
Faith isn’t exclusive. It isn’t faith or works, but both together. One is the manifestation of the other, and while both have value, only through Christ are they redemptive. Being alone with the Lord is also valuable, but encouragement from others of faith is what often keeps us strong.
Trusting God Through Trials and TribulationsStrengthening faith also means trusting God amid life’s storms. Doubts may arise when circumstances turn difficult, yet our Lord is never surprised by our trials. As I reflected on Maria Vadia’s inspiring book Healing is For You!, I was reminded that true healing—especially spiritual healing—flows from a relationship with Jesus, not from visible signs alone. Her book, every other sentence, almost, has a scripture verse that proves her point. It is a call from the Lord to be healed inside and outside.
As frail humans, we can fall into conditional faith, but God calls us to deeper trust. The “prosperity gospel” that promises health and wealth if we believe hard enough misses the heart of the Gospel. Jesus taught the narrow road: “Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14 RSVCE).
Trials produce endurance. James 1:2-4 (RSVCE) beautifully explains: “Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Spiritual Endurance: Running the Race of FaithWatching my son, who recently visited, run four to six miles in the hot, humid Florida mornings reminded me of spiritual discipline. He runs for his health, his job, and his goals—not because it feels easy, but because the results are worth it. The same is true for us. Life demands endurance, yet we often choose scrolling or entertainment over the challenge that deepens our faith.
God calls us to run with perseverance. Hebrews 12:1-2 (RSVCE) invites: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”
Strengthening your faith is not a one-time event but a daily choice to pray, immerse yourself in Scripture, walk in community, and trust God through every trial. Like a well-trained runner, you will face discomfort, yet the reward—deeper intimacy with Christ, unshakeable peace, and eternal inheritance—far surpasses any hardship. May you run this race with courage, knowing Jesus walks beside you, equipping you every step of the way. Your faith, strengthened by grace, will become a beacon of hope for a world in need of the Savior.
Amen!
For more encouragement on growing in faith, check out these related episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly
- Discipline And Faith
- God’s Provision: Trusting Him
- Holiness Is Possible
- Overcoming Hopelessness
Thank you for listening and sharing this episode! Visit AFewMinuteswithGodPodcast.com for show notes, and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
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Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 16, Judy Zelden – The Power of Faith and PrayerMagnificat® Ministry presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Judy Zelden, wife of Mike Zelden, is a mother of three and grandmother of nine.
She helped found Magnificat in 1981, moved with her family to Baton Rouge in 1983, and served as a guidance counselor at Catholic schools. Judy returned to Magnificat’s Central Service Team (CST) from 1991 to 2008 and has since been on the CST Advisory Team. She authored a women’s Bible study called Woman, Called By Name which debuted in 2015 and released another Bible study in 2021, “Woman, Called and Sent for Such a Time As This.” Both studies received an imprimatur and were featured in popular webinars.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims.The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
The Magnificat® Ministry Podcast is also heard on EWTN’s Podcast Central (scroll to our Podcast Icon) on this page: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/other-podcasts
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About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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Christian Unity ~ Uniting God’s PeopleEpisode 310: Exploring Christian Unity based on Ephesians 4:1-6
How can we have Christian unity when we can’t even get along with those we live with and love? The same goes for world peace. How can we expect World Peace when we argue with our spouse or friends? If we can’t get along with those we like, how can we find common ground among various nations? Our world is falling apart, friends. Right before our eyes, today is the day to pray like never before.
Thanks to CTCMath.com for sponsoring this episode. CTC is a math curriculum found online for grades K-12.
Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. (Psalm 118:24) So we begin with praise, rejoicing in the day and giving God all the glory. As I’ve shared many times on this podcast, we praise God and thank Him even in the midst of trial and adversity. Things are falling apart all around us, and we praise God. One of the reasons is because, yes, God is worthy of praise. The other is because it helps remind us that we are not in this alone. Even if you are driving by yourself, taking a walk, or at your home alone, God is with you.
Once we have praised God, we put on God’s armor. Ephesians 6:10-18. Don’t just read it, pray it. Slowly and with meaning. We ask the Lord for protection against evil one. Why? Because he is the disrupter and the one who causes the division. This began in the Garden and continues today.
Christian Unity Starts Here:
Where does Christian unity begin? It begins with me—right here, right now. It doesn’t start with my neighbor, my friend, or my spouse. I don’t stop to pick up the phone and say, “Hey, you really need to get with it and be united.” It won’t work. For there to be peace, it starts with me. Mother Teresa famously said this about peace: “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.”
So, it starts with me: what can I do and how can I do it?
A friend posted an article from a website, and I am posting the link here. The topic is the importance of Christian Unity. It goes on to explain the importance of doing our part (with the help of the Holy Spirit) to not be the cause of division, which means to guard us against temptation, guarding our mouths and what we say, and, more importantly, your social media posts.
When I read the title of the article, I was convicted to watch my words, especially among my family and friends.
As I write this, we are currently in an election cycle, and it can be horrible to read what people say and watch neighbors and friends become enemies. I lost friends during the last election cycle because I would not engage in conversation or be swayed by the beliefs of those who contacted me. They “unfriended” me on Facebook which truthfully hurt my feelings tremendously. In retrospect, while I had many champions for my cause, and the majority of friends agreed with me, I found that those who did not were steeped in a way of thinking I could not identify or understand. I am steeped in prayer this election cycle, making an effort to set aside time daily for our country and the disunity. And for the disunity in our world as well, with countless wars!
Jesus wants us united, yet He is well aware that the evil one is trying to wreck our lives. We read of this in
Ephesians 4:1-6 (read on air).
We are called to be “forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” How can we do this? There is only one way, with an infilling and an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. My prayer is something like this, “Dear Holy Spirit, come and fill me with to overflowing with your love, your peace, and your joy. Please fill me with love for my children and my spouse (name anyone close to you here). Fill me with love and compassion for those who I don’t like, and I don’t care to know. Help me to be faithful to you, my Lord, and help me never to be parted from unity with You. Holy Spirit, come.”
Create your own prayer or version of asking the Holy Spirit for help bringing unity and peace to your life and the lives of others.
The only way for us to have Christian unity is to pray and ask God for a deeper desire for peace in our hearts. Another thing the article said that resonated with me was to ask the Lord to keep us away from “every temptation of the enemy to rip us apart.” These are very wise words. We must avoid the temptation to get in the last word or to say something that might be considered funny yet hurtful. We must rally the troops and let your family and friends know what you are doing. This is not bragging (oh, look at me praying here); this is explaining a way of thinking that I believe most Christians will rally around and unite.
God loves us; He loves this fallen humanity of which we are a part, and He knows our needs before we even ask. Yet ask we must today. Begin now. Ask the Lord for peace and unity, and let it begin with me. May you be blessed now and forever.
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The Mind of Christ and PsychologyIn this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Kim joins Angela, Jackie, and Pat in discussing the Mind of Christ and Psychology. The panel will explore how to know the mind of Christ vs our own minds as we discern the will of God, consolation vs desolation, and the importance of spiritual direction and professional psychological healing service.
Listen to additional Some Women Podcast episodes.
As a Director of the Brain Fitness Center in Orange County, California, Dr. Elizabeth Kim’s multi-ethnic, dynamic practice as a licensed psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and a board-certified Neurofeedback practitioner, is the perfect setting for her vast experience in the healing arts which she places under the Lordship of Jesus, the Healer.
Elizabeth received a miraculous healing after the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and 54 Day Rosary Novena. In experiencing Abba Father’s tremendous love pouring into her heart and encountering The Living Jesus, she had a radical conversion. This began the most profound and meaningful journey of transformation of a whole person in the grace of the Most Holy Trinity.
Dr. Kim has served the Church in various positions including Youth and Healing Ministry, Prayer Team Ministry, as a member of the Board of Directors for SCRC (Southern California Renewal Communities), and as a speaker at conferences. Her love and zeal for spreading the Good News brought her to speaking at numerous Magnificat Chapter Meals. Her testimony has aired on EWTN Radio. She appeared on EWTN TV’s Women of Grace featuring “Magnificat Proclaims”. Presently, she is a coordinator for the Orange County Chapter of Magnificat Ministry.
“What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword? No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:35, 37)
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
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Episode 03 Friday- Mass Bishop Gregory Parkes, PresiderIn this spiritually uplifting episode, we join the Magnificat Ministry for a celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Bishop Gregory Parkes. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Diocese of St. Petersburg, Bishop Parkes welcomes attendees and offers a profound reflection on the Feast of Saint Benedict of Nursia.
The episode explores the intersection of ancient monastic wisdom and modern spiritual life, emphasizing how the Holy Spirit guides us through “dark periods” of history and personal turmoil. Bishop Parkes reminds us that holiness is not reserved for the few, but is a daily calling for every believer.
Listen to additional Homilies.
Takeaway“The Holy Spirit wants to make us Saints in the middle of our daily life… May the Spirit form in each of us a little monastery—a place where Christ is loved, where peace dwells, and where holiness grows.”
Key Highlights & Themes* A Father’s Blessing: Bishop Parkes welcomes the Magnificat Ministry and its founder, Marilyn Quirk, acknowledging the global “fruitfulness” of this apostolate. * The Legacy of Saint Benedict: A look at the “Father of Western Monasticism” and how his response to a crumbling Roman Empire provides a blueprint for finding peace in today’s noisy world. * Ora et Labora (Prayer and Work): Understanding the Benedictine balance. Bishop Parkes discusses how to integrate a “rhythm of holiness” into our daily chores, schedules, and relationships. * The Power of Silence: Why silence is not an “emptiness” but a “sacred space.” The Bishop challenges listeners to reclaim quiet moments to hear the “whisper of God” amidst the distractions of social media and modern anxiety. * Walking with Mary: A reflection on our Blessed Mother as the ultimate model of Benedictine stability—listening, obeying, and treasuring the Word in her heart.
Scripture References* Genesis 46: Jacob’s migration to Egypt and his emotional reunion with Joseph. * Matthew 10: Jesus’ instruction to the Apostles to be “shrewd as serpents and simple as doves” in the face of persecution.
Magnificat® MinistryFounded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry.
Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
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God First – Episode 226When was the last time you put God first? Is God in your first thought of the day? No? How about the last thought? The struggle is real especially when life is overwhelming and seems to get in the way. Join Felice Gerwitz as she shares how she puts God first and the way she accomplishes this daily.
Our wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12
An elderly friend once shared that as she grew older, her understanding and awareness of her sinfulness increased. This self-awareness should not be limited to age, but due to the nature of most of our lifestyles, this unfortunately is the norm.
If we take time to reflect we will all realize we fall short. Yes, it is difficult to admit but true. We all have shortcomings but the way we handle them is the difference between living a life for God or against Him because somewhere in the middle does not count. The Scriptures remind us that G0d will spew us out of his mouth! In fact Revelations, 3 verses 15-22 will give you so much to unpack. There are five main themes that we hear in entire sermons based on this scripture. First let me share it with you. (Read on air.)
Unpacking Revelations 3 -A Few Points
- Lukewarm faith
- Don’t need God – own ability
- Refined by fire
- Repent
- God knocking at the door
- Ability to hear God’s Word
Let me read the verses in Revelations 3:15-22 (Read on air.)
Lukewarm faith – going through the motions. There is a song that really resonated with me for some time, the song’s title is The Motions by Matthew West. This was a song that hit hard because one of the lines says: (read onair.)
Matthew West was quoted as saying “The song is about complacency and a desire to “break free from the average, ordinary, lukewarm Christian life” – and that is what we need to do, break free of complacency. The thought is there is always tomorrow to pray, to read the Bible to attend church. But the saying goes that today is the “first day” of the rest of your life. We should look at each day as an opportunity not only to grow closer to God but to ask the Lord how to best serve Him.
Is this true of you? Don’t need God – own ability. There is a popular saying, “we make our own luck,” and I think I have always hated that phrase because to me it means I don’t need God. Yes, we should work hard, strive to do the best we can, get up and get going and not wait for handouts. However, we need God in the same way that we need air to breathe. That too is a Christian song, you may know it by its title “Breathe” (The Air I Breathe), and the original author Marie Barnett didn’t even mean to sing the lyrics (as a song leader) but was led to sing it spontaneously in church one Sunday. *You can read here story here. It made it to a Vinyard’s album and later was recorded by many artists such as Michael W. Smith. The words go like this (read on air). (Lyrics here.) Without God we would not even have air to breathe, so all the glory and honor go to Him! (Read Onair.)
Refined by fire – Interesting the Scripture states – counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire so that you may be rich – we are refined by fire but usually, that is a painful process and if we do not learn anything from the pain we will suffer again and again. In order to be rich we must learn from this refinement and praise God in all things, even those hardships.
Repent – The obvious here is to ask the Lord for forgiveness, but I want to take it one step further… we stay away from deepening our relationship with the Lord and putting God first when we are in sin. Like Adam and Eve were afraid to show their faces to the Lord, because of their sinfulness and their lack of repentance at that point, so too we are afraid of the justification for our sins. For every sin, there must be a payment. And sin, unfortunately, affects us all not only the person in sin.
God knocking at the door – We have discussed this in many other podcasts and it calls to mind a photo I have of the Lord knocking at the door, but the handle is on my side. God is the Almighty and can do anything, but God wants our hearts only when we give it to Him willingly. Unbelievers will say that religion is forced and there are all these rules and hoops to jump through — however, God has given us free will for a reason and a choice to follow Him, to let Him, to put God first or not.
Ability to hear God’s Word – recently in a prayer ministry meeting a friend recounted a story and said over and over again, “But I told this person specifically…” and she said this more than one time. It is interesting that we can talk to people and they do not hear or comprehend what we say even when we think it is crystal clear. The same with God’s word. It is crystal clear if we have our minds and hearts open to putting Him first.
There is so much more to unpack in those few lines of Scripture and I urge you and challenge you this week to meditate upon the words and make a plan, today to put God first in your life and to get yourself out of complacency and fire for the Lord, the Creator of Heaven and Earth! May God bless us today and always.
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Episode: 03 – Maria Vadia- Rise Up, Dry BonesIn this high-energy and prophetic session, renowned author and speaker Maria Vadia delivers a stirring call to the “Pew Potatoes” of the Church to wake up and embrace their identity as a “Kingdom of Priests.”
Drawing from the powerful imagery of Ezekiel 37, Maria explores the valley of dry bones—a humanly impossible situation—and demonstrates how the Word of God and the Holy Spirit can bring dead things back to life.
Maria shares her radical transformation from a materialistic “Sunday Catholic” to a missionary traveling to over 30 nations.
With her signature wit and boldness, she challenges listeners to stop acting like “orphans” and start living as sons and daughters of the King, equipped with the dunamis (miraculous power) of the Holy Spirit to heal the sick, cast out demons, and even raise the dead.
Key Takeaways* The Power of the Tongue: We carry the power of life and death in our speech. Maria reminds us that the Kingdom is “voice-activated”—we must stop grumbling and start prophesying the Word. * Renewing the Mind: While our spirits are reborn at baptism, our minds must be manually “reset” through Scripture to dismantle the “House of Lies” built by the enemy. * Normal Christianity: Miracles, signs, and wonders aren’t just for the saints of old; they are the standard credentials for every believer today. * A New Perspective: We are seated in “heavenly places” (Ephesians 2:6). When we look down from the throne room, every problem is under our feet.
Memorable Quotes“The Lord never intended to leave behind a church that looked like an audience.”
“I’m a weird specimen of a Catholic… because I’m doing what Jesus told us to do.”
Resources Mentioned* Books by Maria Vadia: Firepower, There is Power in Your Tongue, Healing is for You, and No More Orphans. * Ministries: The Glory of God Foundation, Glory House of Miami. * Scripture Reference: Ezekiel 37 (The Valley of Dry Bones), Acts 2 (Pentecost), and John 14:12.
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God’s Love Is Sufficient – Episode 182Uncertainty surrounds our lives yet with God we know that His love is sufficient for all of our needs. In this podcast, learn how you can live a life that is free from worry, stress, and anger.
Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath for all of your children’s (grandchildren or friends and neighbors) math needs. Check out CTCMath.com for more information.
If you know your scriptures you are probably thinking – why is she talking about God’s love being sufficient when the scriptures say, my grace is sufficient: Read: 2 Corinthians 12:9
God’s grace is his love and his forgiveness – it is empowerment by the Holy Spirit that makes us strong in, as the scriptures say our time of weakness. Seriously God’s grace and love is sufficient? Really? When are we weak? When are we scared? When we have infirmities – illnesses?
God’s Love IS SufficientNo one thinks their life is ideal. But if I asked you to take some time to design your ideal life what would be included? Would it be a house on the beach, listening to the waves crashing on the seashore? Or would it be a mountain retreat? What about an unlimited bank fund or maybe good health and happiness in your family? Each of our lists would be very, very long. But for most one of the missing elements is a relationship with God. Our ideal life surrounds our health and welfare, our temporal or temporary needs. We are often more interested in taking care of today, the right now rather than the forever.
We hold on tight to the things that don’t matter in the end.
An ideal life is free from worry, stress, anger, and heartache, to be free from illness … and the only way for this to happen is to have confidence in Almighty God. A stress-free – worry-free life is almost unimaginable. In fact, it is a difficult concept to grasp. Yet God’s love is all we need to live a life that is fulfilling.
This may be again, easier said than done. God is the God of Creation – He is after all the Creator God. Before original sin our lives would have been more astounding than our greatest dreams. One of the things that our first parents shared with the Creator was the gift of communication with Him. Communication is a form of relationship – communion is beyond speech, it is beyond what we can explain with words. This is what was recovered by the life – the example Christ gave to us, His death for redemption and the resurrection. The miracle. God is the only one who can restore us. This communion with God takes us to a level where we can let go of the things of this world. As a Catholic, I believe Holy Communion is the key because it is healing.
Recently we had a medical scare concerning my husband. We thought he might need surgery on his back – the neck region… and we know how back surgery can be – it can be great or the worse nightmares can happen. Well after months and months of tests, MRI, more scans, and even some he still has to go to later this month, we are at peace. The neuro-surgeon basically said my husband had a major issue but that his body had repaired itself, and the vertebrae he would have had to fuse in surgery was already done for him! What a miracle! What a gift from God.
It also turned out – which shows God’s sense of humor, that the surgeon and I chatted about his hometown which is also my hometown (I’m one of these people who read a doctor’s bio on their website), and it turns out he knew me, and I was his teacher in the 4th grade when I was a college student and student-teaching in his classroom. Of course, I was blown away, and we laughed about the chances of meeting up again.
God is amazing and in this life, we can either praise God for all things – those we are scared and uncertain about and those things that are truly happy and amazing blessings in our life. God cares in everything we do even if we think that only bad things happen.
We are called to love God and realize that His grace and His love are all we need, but without a relationship, we cannot love someone we do not know. How do we know someone? We communicate with each other. Some may feel speaking to God is a one-way street. We talk, He listens. We hear nothing back. This takes practice and it takes the Holy Spirit. Have you availed yourself to the Holy Spirit? I attended what is called a Life in the Spirit Seminar in the 1990s and this changed my life. Here I learned that God not only wanted a personal relationship with me but that He wanted to pour His Spirit into my life in a way that I could experience, more fully what it means to be a Christian. People talk about finding faith and the honeymoon period. That is a period when they can’t get enough of reading the Bible or spending time in prayer or just meditating on the goodness of the Lord. They are so excited to share their faith and everything that God has done in their life with anyone – and I mean anyone who will listen.
The Holy Spirit allows Scriptures to become alive. When we read about Jesus healing the Lepers we think about this in terms of being there on the side roads and watching this take place. We feel the elation of those healed and we want to shout from the rooftops – God is a God of miracles. Everything else pales by comparison. We also realize that the things of this world are fleeting.
Sure we need money to live, to buy food, to pay for our bills – but that is not enough for most. Everyone has big dreams that include bigger homes, cars, and vacations, and a bigger, deeper relationship with the Lord is not necessarily high up on the list.
No wonder we are depressed, defeated, and feeling like no one cares or listens to what we have to say. So what can we do? Put aside all of our world aspirations – of course not, but maybe intersperse them with other goals and focuses.
First, when you read Scripture always pray to the Holy Spirit for the gift of knowledge, and ask that the Lord allows you to see the parts that really speak to you. Our lives have a way of refining all of the impurities and all of the things we need to release, but our strength is in that grace from God and that Knowledge that God’s love is all we need.
Let’s Pray – Dear Lord we thank you for all of the miracles in our lives for those things we see and for all of those things that are unseen. I praise you for the grace you give us and that is indeed sufficient and I thank you for the love you give for that is sufficient as well. I ask you Lord to bless those I pray for now and provide for all of their needs.. and I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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Episode 01 Face to Face with Jesus Fr. Michael VoithoferIn this high-energy opening session, Fr. Michael Voithofer challenges listeners to move beyond merely “living” to becoming truly alive in the Holy Spirit. Drawing from his journey as a priest and his ministry, Ablaze, Fr. Michael explores the transformative power of the Ruah (the Breath of God) and the necessity of a “mental renewal” to align our souls with the reality of our identity in Christ.
He dives deep into the concept of Present Moment Living, arguing that we cannot access the Kingdom of God if we are tethered to the guilt of the past or the anxiety of the future. Through a blend of humor, scripture, and raw exhortation, this session serves as a prophetic call to stop living as “orphans” and start living as beloved sons and daughters.
Key Takeaways* Living vs. Being Alive: There is a fundamental difference between biological existence and the supernatural life found in the baptism of the Holy Spirit. * The “Already” vs. the “Not Yet”: We often focus on our flaws (the not yet) rather than the finished work of the cross (the already). Faith means believing how God sees us right now. * Identity Over Performance: You cannot serve well if you are constantly checking your “adoption status” with God. We must live from God’s love, not for it. * The Danger of Self-Reliance: Fr. Michael identifies self-reliance as a “primary sin” that numbs us to the Kingdom and traps us in an “orphan” mindset. * The Power of the Gaze: Like Peter walking on water, our ability to do the impossible depends entirely on locking eyes with Jesus and receiving the Father’s affection.
Scriptures Referenced* Genesis 2:7: The Lord breathing the Ruah into man. * John 8:36: “If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.” * Philippians 3 & Romans 8: Leaving the past behind to strive for what lies ahead. * Matthew 10:8: “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons.”
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What does it really mean to have the mind of Christ—and how do we actually live it out in everyday life?
In this episode of Some Women, host Angela Rizzo is joined by Pat Higginbotham, Jackie France, and guest Judy Zeldin to explore how Scripture transforms our thinking, renews our minds, and equips us to resist fear, anxiety, and spiritual attack.
Together, they unpack how aligning our thoughts with God’s Word leads to peace, clarity, and deeper trust in Him.
Key Takeaways The mind of Christ is countercultural—it challenges worldly thinking and priorities * Scripture is essential for renewing your mind and transforming your life * You can take every thought captive and align it with God’s truth * Fear, worry, and anxiety often stem from false beliefs or lack of trust * God’s Word is not just helpful—it is powerful, active, and effective in spiritual battles*
What Is the “Mind of Christ”?The mind of Christ means thinking, responding, and perceiving life the way Jesus does.
According to Scripture, this involves:
- Surrendering your thoughts to God
- Rejecting lies and replacing them with truth
- Living in humility, trust, and obedience
- Allowing the Holy Spirit to transform your thinking
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” — Romans 12:2
Practical Ways to Develop the Mind of Christ1. Study Scripture DailyThere is no substitute for knowing God’s Word. It shapes how you think and respond.
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Take Thoughts CaptiveNot every thought is from you—or from God. Learn to identify and reject lies.
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Replace Lies with TruthDon’t just remove negative thinking—fill that space with Scripture.
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Pray with ScriptureUse God’s Word in prayer, especially when facing fear or anxiety.
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Build a Relationship with GodTransformation isn’t a formula—it’s the result of a growing relationship with Him.
Spiritual Battle: The Battlefield of the MindThis episode highlights a powerful truth:
The mind is the primary battlefield of spiritual warfare.
- The enemy uses fear, condemnation, and doubt
- God equips us with truth, peace, and authority through Scripture
“Fear is useless. What is needed is trust.”
Old Testament vs. New Testament: Why Both Matter The Old Testament reveals God’s character and foreshadows Christ * The New Testament* fulfills those promises through Jesus
Together, they provide a complete picture of how God thinks—and how we should think.
Featured GuestJudy Zeldin
- Original Magnificat Service Team member (since 1981)
- Former guidance counselor
- Author of two approved Catholic Bible studies
- Longtime teacher and speaker in women’s ministry
Final EncouragementRenewing your mind is a process, not a one-time event.
The more you immerse yourself in Scripture and relationship with God, the more your thoughts—and your life—will begin to reflect Christ.
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry.
Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
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Episode 01- Homilist: Fr. Connor PennIn this moving homily, Fr. Connor Penn explores the profound life of Joseph from the Book of Genesis, drawing a powerful map for finding divine peace in the midst of betrayal, injustice, and personal tragedy. Whether you are facing family resentment or circumstances beyond your control, this episode is a reminder that the “cross” is never the end of your story—the Resurrection is.
Key TakeawaysThe “Joseph Lesson”: Joseph had every right to seek vengeance against the brothers who sold him into slavery. Instead, he chose to see God’s hand in his suffering, famously stating, “It was really for the sake of saving lives that God sent me here ahead of you.”
The Story Behind “It Is Well”: Fr. Connor shares the heartbreaking origins of the famous hymn written by Horatio Spafford in 1873 following the loss of his five children and his fortune.
Renouncing the Lies: We often believe the lie that peace is unavailable to us because our lives are “a mess.” Fr. Connor leads a powerful exercise in renouncing these lies and claiming the truth of God’s providence.
The Resurrection Mindset: Peace doesn’t come from the absence of trouble, but from the confidence that God works all things for good—a truth anchored in the Victory of the Cross.
Scripture ReferencesGenesis 37-45: The Saga of Joseph and his brothers.
Matthew 10: Jesus sending out the Apostles to proclaim the Kingdom and bestow peace.
Romans 8:28: All things work together for good for those who love God.
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Challenge After Easter ~ Episode 249What is the challenge after Easter? Have you even considered this a question? In this episode, Felice explores the idea of embracing each day with the remembrance of the Resurrection and living our lives as true Christian sons and daughters.
Thanks to our sponsor CTC math! Visit the website at CTCMath for more information about a great math curriculum.
Before Easter, many of us take the time to seek God in a deeper way as we consider His ultimate sacrifice. This time is called Lent, and it is the 40 days before Easter. Jesus spent 40 days in prayer in the desert before what is called his public ministry. It is an amazing example to us. Jesus spent this time in preparation, and He was tested.
The Easter season is always special, especially if you practice fasting, almsgiving, reconciliation, or confession. We examine our lives and look for ways to improve. Maybe we realize there are sins in our lives, and we make a point of changing for the better. Lent is practiced widely in the Catholic Church and begins on Ash Wednesday, a time of receiving ashes on the forehead at church with the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust, you shall return.” This a reminder that we do not live forever, and while God is merciful, He is also just.
Perhaps you focused before Easter on prayer, journaling, or made a concentrated effort to renew your relationship with the Lord. This time is beneficial; if you did not have time to do this in the past, there is always today to begin. It is never too late to increase your faith and your time with God. Each day is a new beginning, and with it comes new hope! I love the word hope – it is inspiring and gives me the confidence that all will be well. Maybe not as I will it, but as the Lord wills it to happen.
During Easter, we celebrate the fact that God has conquered death and opened up a way to heaven and that we, as His followers, have a path ahead that is an invitation. Easter day may include worship, attending church, and celebrating by sharing a meal with friends and family. It is a wonderful time of connection.
What about after? Do we lose that Easter glow? Do we forget about rejoicing the day after HE has RISEN? Unfortunately, that is a yes for many of us. Each day after, we continue on with our lives and forget what God has done for us. However, the challenge is to remember Jesus daily.
Here are a handful of ideas to keep the Lord front and center:
- Praise and thank Him each day for the simple things. In a future podcast, I will discuss everyday prayer, but for now, know that our lives can be used as a prayer. If we dedicate our concerns to Him, the burden is often lifted. Maybe not totally, but in some way, we know we are not alone.
- Meditate on one scripture each day. For example, Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Think about the words, and focus on what impacts you. The overarching theme here is that God’s protection for those who follow Him will not overwhelm us. It does not mean life is easy, only that He will give us the grace to handle it. By meditating on this concept, we will be renewed.
- Realize that you are not in this life alone. As a follower of the Almighty God, the King of the Universe, you are never alone. John 14;25-27 “I have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Advocate,[a] the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. Again an amazing verse to ponder.
- Use song as a prayer. Praying through the verses of your favorite Christian songs helps us to be placed in the midst of God. Praying through song is considered by some, praying twice. Here is a podcast I created sometime back on Christian music and using it for praise, here.
Can you add to the list above? What are some ways to keep God the focus of your life? Take some time and consider this question, maybe right now but afterward. We have different ways of worshiping God, but keeping God at the forefront of our lives takes work and a concentrated effort. Our lives would be so much better if we could remember to do this, and not just during the Easter or Christmas season but all year long.
For many of us, our lives are divided into compartments. There is work time and family or friend time; there is time for recreation, whether it is social media, a book, the television, or an online source. There is time for worship which may be one or more days a week. However, if we include God in all we do, if we did this, our lives would not only be richer but more in the sense of keeping us from sin.
When we get busy or our focus is on the wrong thing, we stumble, and we fall. In trying to do our best or make everyone else happy, we discover that we have lost something of ourselves. Many of us are “other-focused,” which means we place our family and friends above ourselves. This is not a bad thing, but we forget to fill up our own tanks with the hope that Jesus is the only important thing and that His life, death, and resurrection give us hope of eternal life. This is the essence of the Easter message. Understanding that God made us for Himself and that our dedication and prayer to Him daily is for us, not for Him. Nothing we can do can earn us salvation, but in the same way, we should give Him our very best. By doing this, we can release the burdens that keep us tied down to Him in the midst of worship.
How will you keep the Easter season alive in your life? Only you know the answer to this, and I pray that you are motivated to make take the message to heart; you are loved so much, John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Amen and Amen.
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Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 15, Father Bao Thai – A Witness to Heavenly MiraclesCan God still work miracles in the middle of fear, loss, and uncertainty? In this moving episode of Magnificat® Proclaims, Father Bao Thai shares his extraordinary testimony of growing up in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War, enduring hardship, and experiencing the grace and protection of God in deeply personal ways.
From miraculous moments to his family’s conversion to Catholicism and their eventual journey to America, Father Bao’s story is a powerful witness to God’s goodness, greatness, and grace.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims.In this episode, Father Bao Thai, born in Saigon in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War, witnessed, firsthand, the terror and horrors of war. However, despite overcoming many hardships, the family received many graces which led Father Bao and his family to eventually convert to Catholicism. Father Bao shares his many miraculous experiences and explains how the Holy Family provided and protected the family, ultimately leading them to America.
Fr. Bao earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Saigon University and taught high school for a year in Vietnam before his family’s relocation to Orange County in July 1993. In the US, Fr. Bao earned a bachelor’s in philosophy from Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon and was ordained in 2003. Since July 2022, Fr. Bao has been serving as the Rector of Christ Cathedral in the Diocese of Orange, California. Fr Bao Thai is the Spiritual Advisor of the Orange County Magnificat chapter.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims.The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
The Magnificat® Ministry Podcast is also heard on EWTN’s Podcast Central (scroll to our Podcast Icon) on this page: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/other-podcasts
About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
Who is Father Bao Thai?Father Bao Thai is a Catholic priest who was born in Saigon, South Vietnam, during the Vietnam War. He later immigrated to America with his family, discerned a vocation to the priesthood, and now serves as the Rector of Christ Cathedral in the Diocese of Orange, California.
What is this episode of Magnificat® Proclaims about?This episode shares Father Bao Thai’s personal testimony of surviving the hardships of war, experiencing heavenly miracles, and seeing how God led his family to convert to Catholicism and eventually come to America.
What makes Father Bao Thai’s testimony powerful?His testimony is powerful because it combines the reality of suffering with the hope of divine intervention, family perseverance, conversion, and trust in God’s providence.
What is Magnificat® Proclaims?Magnificat® Proclaims is a podcast from Magnificat® Ministry that features inspiring testimonies of God’s goodness, greatness, and grace, encouraging listeners to deepen their relationship with the Triune God.
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Family Transformed – Episode 217Are you ready for a transformation within your own family? How about a challenge for a transformed family? This is a follow-up to the last episode of Heart Transformed
Thanks to our sponsor, CTC Math a wonderful math curriculum for kids K-12
Why is it we can see the faults in other people so much easier than we can see the faults in ourselves? Did you know when we focus on ourselves first (the opposite of what we have been taught), and get our own spiritual house in order, the rest of the family will see the change and want to be a part of what you have? If you didn’t catch the last episode, Heart Transformed be sure to check it out.
St. Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:1-4 [ Read on air]
When our family is at peace, when we are serving the Lord as a group, we will all get along so much better. I taught my children that God put us together as a family on purpose. There are no mistakes in Lord’s plan for family life. Each person was selected to be together because of what they could learn from each other. It is a beautiful thing when it works the way God designed. If we focus on the things above we are so much happier.
The best teacher is the example we set If we want our family to read the Bible, we need to read the Bible. If we want our family to pray, we need to lead in prayer. Years ago I wanted my husband to be the spiritual leader of our home, and he is in so many ways, but not in the way I wanted him to be. I wanted him to lead the Bible studies and the prayer sessions we had as a family and while he contributed to these, he is not a leader. So we became co-leaders, I would initiate the studies and he and I would contribute to the discussion. We can become upset or bitter because things do not go our way rather than take on the leadership ourselves if that is what God leads us to do. Don’t box yourself in with your own ideas, but rather what works best for your family. Never, never compare your family to other families. That will surely set you up for failure. Many people put up a good front when everything is falling apart. So don’t judge by exteriors.
Here are some simple things to do, for yourself if you do not have a young family and with a family, if you do:
- Start each day by giving thanks. By doing this we are giving God all the glory (Colossians 4:4 – When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you will also be revealed with him in glory.”) That is enough for us to rejoice daily.
- Family prayer. Begin each meal with thanks to God. Keep it brief. Have a nighttime routine that includes prayer.
- Encourage each member of the family to have their own time to pray.
- Participate in helping. Whether it is each other or contributing to the family needs. Meals, cleaning up, helping when needed.
- Participate in ministry outside of the home. Volunteering, visiting the elderly (neighbor), etc.
Talk to your family members and add to this list. As the children grew and left home we had a big gap in our lives, and my husband and I found we were no longer praying together because our nightly routine was changed. Even when our children were younger, the two of us would pray each evening together. This habit changed as our lives became busier. For anyone who has children, you always think you will have so much time when the kids grow older, but soon find that our lives just change and often become even busier. We must make the time to pray together.
If you are alone in your home and have a good prayer life, that is wonderful, now invite a friend. I pray with my friends often. Sometimes it is in church, sometimes it is a friend in need. I am part of several email prayer groups that send out prayer requests. I set up a Facebook group – A Few Minutes with God years ago for prayer requests. It was used to help people who needed prayers and also to post their praise reports.
And that is really the crux of the transformed family, and that is you will have so many praise reports! A praise report is where we thank God for the blessings in our lives. My son was hit by a falling object that was large and metal off of a single-story roof. The injury could have been so bad, but it turned out that while it bled profusely, the damage was minimal and mostly a scrape. That was a miracle. No swelling, no concussion, no brain damage, or worse! So thank you Lord for your blessings. If you think about it each day you can come up with so many things to thank the Lord for and to praise His Name. But, it takes time to stop and think.
What do you do when you enter a church? Is it a time to be social, or is it a time to listen and pray? Can we pray and be social? Of course! But I feel that often church is used as a social outlet rather than a time of worship. Going to church for me is a time to get on my knees, for as long as I am able, and begin by thanking and praising God, asking His forgiveness for the ways I have offended Him, and petitioning Him in prayer. However, you serve to worship it is an individual choice.
This week I challenge you to work within your own family no matter how big or how small and make positive changes. Small to begin with and grow as your family grows and adapts to a time of prayer, worship, and growing closer to the Lord. I pray this is a blessing to you and your family.
Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!
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The “thorn in your side” in the Bible refers to a persistent hardship or weakness God allows for spiritual growth, humility, and dependence on His grace. While we may not know exactly what Paul’s thorn was, the passage teaches that God’s strength is often revealed most clearly in our weakness.
In this episode of Some Women, Angela, Jackie and Pat are joined by Mary Powell in a lively discussion of what it means to have a thorn in the side and personal experiences of carrying one. Mary has been a longtime Magnificat Ministry member and Servant Leader. She currently serves as the first voice to women inquiring about starting a Magnificat Chapter in their diocese and is a powerful intercessor on their behalves.
Why does God allow a thorn in your side?That’s the hard question, isn’t it?
And if we’re honest, most of us don’t ask that question theoretically. We ask it because something hurts.
According to this passage—and the wisdom shared in this conversation—God may allow a thorn for several reasons:
1. To keep us humbleSt. Paul had experienced extraordinary revelations. Without some kind of humbling limitation, he may have become spiritually prideful.
Sometimes our thorn reminds us:
- we are not self-sufficient
- we are not in control
- we are not God
And while that can feel painful, it is also deeply protective.
2. To keep us dependent on HimMany of us only discover how much we need God when something in life stops “working.”
A diagnosis.
A betrayal.
A fear we can’t outrun.
A body that doesn’t cooperate.
A loved one who suffers.
The thorn often becomes the place where prayer becomes more than routine. It becomes survival.
3. To increase compassionPain has a way of softening us—if we let it.
A woman who has walked through suffering often becomes the one who can truly sit with another person’s pain without offering shallow answers. Hardship can make us more tender, more understanding, and more useful in ministry.
4. To reveal His powerWhen life is easy, it is tempting to think we are strong.
But when we are weak and still somehow sustained?
When we keep going and know it is only by grace?
When peace shows up in the middle of chaos?
That is often where the power of God becomes unmistakable.
What could a “thorn in your side” look like today?A thorn is not always dramatic. Sometimes it’s not a mountain. Sometimes, as one speaker beautifully put it, it’s “the sand in your shoes.”
Your thorn might be:
- a difficult season in marriage
- a spouse’s illness
- caregiving responsibilities
- body image struggles
- aging and physical pain
- divorce or family brokenness
- fear of the future
- recurring emotional or spiritual battles
- the ache of unanswered prayer
And yes, your thorn may change over time.
The thing that was hardest ten years ago may not be the thing God is using today.
Can your thorn actually become a gift?Not because the suffering itself is “good.”
But because God is good in it.
That’s the difference.
A thorn can become a gift when it:
- drives you to prayer
- strips away pride
- teaches surrender
- exposes false dependencies
- deepens your faith
- opens your heart to others
- keeps you close to Jesus
That doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it.
St. Paul didn’t say, “This is fun.”
He said he learned to boast in weakness because it became the place where Christ’s power rested on him.
That’s a very different thing.
What if God doesn’t heal it?This is where faith gets real.
Because many of us believe God can heal… but we are living in the tension of the fact that He hasn’t done it yet.
And that can be heartbreaking.
But Scripture gives us a holy reframe:
God’s unanswered prayer is not always God’s absence.Sometimes God is answering with:
- sustaining grace
- daily strength
- deeper conversion
- greater trust
- spiritual transformation
- an invitation to holiness
Sometimes the miracle is not immediate removal.
Sometimes the miracle is that you are still standing.
A Catholic perspective on suffering and sanctificationIn Catholic spirituality, suffering is never meaningless when united with Christ.
That doesn’t make it easy.
But it does make it redemptive.
Your thorn can become:
- a place of surrender
- a place of intercession
- a place of purification
- a place where Jesus meets you intimately
The sacraments, prayer, anointing, Scripture, community, and the Holy Spirit all become lifelines in seasons where the thorn feels heavy.
And often, suffering strips away illusions and brings us face-to-face with what matters most:
- eternity
- dependence on God
- the condition of the soul
- the faithfulness of Jesus
How should you respond to the thorn in your side?If you’re in a hard season right now, here are a few faith-filled responses:
1. Name it honestlyYou don’t have to pretend it doesn’t hurt.
God is not asking for polished spirituality. He is asking for truth.
2. Pray boldlySt. Paul asked for the thorn to be removed. You can too.
Faith does not mean silence. It means bringing your full heart to God.
3. Ask what God is doing in itInstead of only asking, “Why won’t You take this away?” try asking:
- “Lord, what are You forming in me here?”
- “What are You showing me?”
- “How do You want to meet me in this?”
4. Lean into grace, not self-relianceThis is not about gritting your teeth and surviving on your own strength.
It’s about learning to live from His.
5. Stay close to the sacraments and communityIsolation makes suffering heavier.
Stay connected to prayer, the Church, trusted believers, and people who will carry faith with you when yours feels thin.
When I am weak, then I am strongThat line from St. Paul is not inspirational fluff.
It is spiritual warfare language.
It is the testimony of someone who discovered that weakness does not disqualify us from holiness.
In fact, it may be one of the places God does His deepest work.
Your thorn may feel like interruption.
But in God’s hands, it may be invitation.
Invitation to trust.
Invitation to surrender.
Invitation to deeper intimacy.
Invitation to heaven.
And while you may never choose the thorn…
you may one day thank God for what He grew through it.
Final EncouragementIf you are carrying something heavy right now, this is your reminder:
God has not abandoned you in your weakness.
He is present there.
He is working there.
And His grace really is sufficient.
Not always for the next ten years.
But for today.
And sometimes today is enough.
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit.“My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
FAQ’sWho were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples?Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
What is the thorn in your side in the Bible?The thorn in the side in the Bible refers to a persistent hardship or weakness described by St. Paul in 2 Corinthians 12. God allowed it to keep him humble and dependent on divine grace.
What does “My grace is sufficient for you” mean?It means God gives enough strength, mercy, and help to endure hardship even when He does not immediately remove it.
Why does God allow suffering?God may allow suffering to deepen faith, increase humility, develop compassion, and draw people into greater dependence on Him.
Was Paul’s thorn physical or spiritual?The Bible does not say exactly what Paul’s thorn was. Some believe it was a physical ailment, while others think it may have been emotional, spiritual, or relational.
Can suffering bring you closer to God?Yes. Many Christians find that suffering becomes a place of deeper prayer, surrender, healing, and spiritual growth.
The post The Thorn in Your Side: What God May Be Doing in Your Weakness appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Ten Lies We Believe ~ Episode 128We all do it we believe lies. There are ten lies we believe! The worse thing? The lies we believe are by definition not true! We give the enemy credit when all the credit should go to Almighty God! In this episode, we explore the most common lies and ways to combat them.
Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com
Visit Media Angels, and the books A Few Minutes with God and One More Child
Why do we believe lies? Because many of us are wounded in some way or like to think of ourselves as broken. We are shaped by so many of life’s events. Sometimes it is our own sins, the sins of others, the death of a loved one, or a tragedy within a family. These things shape us and how we consider the future choices we make. God predestines no one to hell! God is the creator, he is love, truth, goodness, beauty. When we see those things in our world they originate from God. Sin is the refusal to live in the beauty that is God. God’s mercy allows us to choose. God never forces His love upon us, he respects human dignity and our free will.
Think about this. Hell is a testimony to God’s respect to our freedom. Love redeemed us and won heaven for us. God will not violate our capacity for choice. So if we want to believe the lies of the enemy we have freedom to do this. The only thing we can give ourselves credit for is sin – every good thing comes from God!
Remember the song, “…and they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love…” I use to think that it was an injustice that I was not showing others God’s love because I did not feel His love myself. I was under a false impression. I believed the lies of the enemy. In my steps as a Christian, I had learned about God’s unconditional love – meaning we don’t need to work at it or earn it, yet I believed that God’s punishments were very real and the thought was depressing. Lies these are all lies. It took me years to undo and become free from these lies! And, friends, this freedom is amazing and I pray this for all of you listening today as well.
Jesus spoke about Satan in the Holy Bible, he said the enemy is the “Father of lies.”
John 8:44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:45-47 Jesus continues… “Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”
If we can not hear what God says in the Word, from our pastors and from our prayers, the bigger question is, “Who DO you belong to?” The first step in combatting the lies of the enemy is to recognize them. Evil is frightening and how do we respond to evil? First by recognizing it! We often credit the evil one with the things that belong to God. At the root of evil is pride – the root of all sin.
Top Ten Lies of Satan
- Satan is a myth. Does Satan really exist? The enemy likes people to believe he does not exist – God is a myth and all of this “penance” or “fasting” or “being good” or “faith” is a tall tale. My question is to people who do not believe in God, “If you believe in God and there is no heaven, you are assured a life where good is called good and evil is called evil. There is no confusion. But if you do not believe in God, and you follow the ways of the enemy (because of course, you are following Him – he has already duped you in believing he does not exist) and then you die and learn there is God. What is the alternative? A life in eternal damnation because a person who denies God and lives a life without God in it will turn their back on God eternally. Our pastor calls it the fundamental option.) I feel sorry for those who do not believe because they are missing an amazing joy! The joy of the love of a benefactor, a Father who loves us not matter what! We have the choice of obedient love or self-seeking which often leads to destruction. What I am is God’s gift to me and what I become is my gift to God!
- Not good enough – false pride- You are sinful and therefore not good enough to follow God. God made us on the sixth day of creation and He said it was “very good” therefore, God made us good. I know there are plenty of people out there that will argue with this statement. So, let’s look at Genesis 1:26-3126 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. 31God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. So the question I have for you to think and pray about is this, if God made us good why do we think we are destined for evil, yes we adopted a “sin nature” as the term goes from Adam and Eve but that is why Jesus came! To take on our sins. Think about it.
- You must be perfect to be a Christian, and if you are not you fall short. First, there is no perfection outside of heaven but that does not mean we do not try. Secondly, we can not be perfect again this doesn’t mean we are lazy Christians but we don’t become holy by the way we dress or act toward others. Instead, the way we dress or act is an extension of our love of God and His goodness within us. It is a flow-through not a doing it on our own strength.
- Doubt — don’t believe what God says. Satan wants us not to believe what God says. Read Genesis 3:1-4
Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”
2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’”
4 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
We must believe that when God says it, He means it. And do not believe or doubt God!
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God Punishes You –– If you are a Christian nothing bad can happen to you. (So when bad things happen to good people, obviously God let you down or there is no God. God punishes you for your sin. Sin does have a consequence and a recourse but we must believe that God is good all the time and all the time, God is good!
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Guilt, Envy, Infidelity – The evil one will tell you that these things are not bad but they are serious. Guilt can eat us up and make us focus on the problem or the issue rather than the solution. Envy is another one of those sins that takes our eyes off of God. Infidelity – well, enough said. Sins may start small but then it snowballs, and as you’ve heard there is no small sin.
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You can’t trust God you have to do things yourself. This is such a lie, we can trust God and we can ask God for help. You know you are believing this lie if you do not ask the Lord for help throughout the day! Do you say, “I need your help Lord. How do I do this? or How can I carry on?” Or is it that I must take charge and take care of the issue without God’s help? God gives us the ability to handle things but a little prayer can go a long way to finding a solution.
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Small Sins are not bad. Everyone sins – and your sins are just not that bad compared to everyone else. This is a truth I have heard people say! We are living a life after the fall is a battle. It is good against evil. Good is the promise of everlasting life and evil is the promise of a wonderful life on this earth without any thought of an afterlife.
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God can never forgive you for your past sins, so why try. Your past does not define you. We are stuck in the past or worried about the future but miss that God is here now. And today? He gives us grace for today! Not for yesterday, or for tomorrow. This can cripple you and make you depressed. You may feel that God has punished you in some way due to past sins. You are a child of God! God lived, died and rose again to give us eternal life. He shouldered that pain and burden when He carried the cross. By His stripes, we are healed. Christ died for you and for me and now lives to give us abundant life! Ask for forgiveness, if you can go to your pastor – if you are Catholic go to confession and let it go!
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Judgmental – We see the sins and failings of others and use that as an excuse to say that all Christians are hypocrites. Of course, some are and ruin it for the rest of us, but the majority of Christians that want to love and serve the Lord are too busy with their own lives to worry about the lives of others. This goes for our adult children. We can pray for them but must allow them to make their own mistakes. Intervention time is when they live under your roof! Christians do not put each other down or point out each others sins – not unless someone asks you! Committed Christians also give don’t flaunt their “holiness” in fact you will know someone is a good Christian if they don’t believe they can ever outgive God and they give God all the glory!
So how do you combat the lies?
- Pray. Keep your eyes focused on God. The #1 Satan buster is prayer. Even if it is just, “Jesus.” or “Jesus help me!” God hears us.
- Arm yourself with the power of Scripture – pray this verse daily! Ephesians 6:10-12 – I love Ephesians 6:10-12 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
- Surround yourself with like-minded Christians. This is so important!
- Go to church. I go to Mass each day as much as I can. By the time I get home, and I feel joyful!
- Listen to praise and worship music. It is difficult to believe the lies of the enemy when we are infused in a joyful atmosphere.
Friends, every day we have a choice. We can be obedient and love the Lord with our whole hearts and ignore those lies or be self seeking which leads to death! Often we chose the world over God! God wishes that we do not rest upon anything other than the infinite goodness of God!
Let’s pray:
Dear Heavenly Father, our Lord Jesus, and the Holy Spirit please hear our plea to help us to combat the lies of the enemy who is fighting for our soul. We know you have won the battle by your life, death, and resurrection. You are so much greater than the forces of darkness. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the Name above all Names and we claim the healing power of You God in our lives. We ask that you help us to combat those lies that we hear in our minds and instead give us words to praise and worship you. I pray for those that are in need of your healing and I lift up the following prayer intentions … and I pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
The post 10 Lies We Believe appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
ForgivenessEpisode #10
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
It isn’t a feeling, it isn’t something we want to do, but it is totally freeing! In this podcast learn how a situation in my life turned into a blessing when I understood the true meaning of the gift of forgiving others.
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Show Notes: Episode 10 – ForgivenessForgiveness – that is such a beautiful word – in this episode, we will explore the difference between forgiveness as a feeling and as a decision.
Please help us out – Please help share this episode with your friends! And, please give this show a star rating on iTunes (search for AFMWG) or any podcast app on your smartphone. Thanks so much for helping share this show with your friends!
Show Notes: Forgiveness:
- Misunderstandings, lies, and false accusations bring hurt to both parties. No one is left unwounded.
- I had to make a decision to forgive.
- Once you can make a decision to forgive you ask the Lord to help you.
The prayer I prayed asking for forgiveness:
Dear Lord, I know I am a sinner and only redeemed by your grace and what you did on the cross and resurrection for me. I know that only through your grace can I forgive my friend. I know you love this person and I ask you to give me that love – the love you have for
Dear Lord, I know I am a sinner and only redeemed by your grace and what you did on the cross and resurrection for me. I know that only through your grace can I forgive my friend. I know you love this person and I ask you to give me that love – the love you have for them, because Lord I cannot do this on my own. I pray to forgive this person as you have forgiven me, and to love this person, and I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.
- Forgiveness became a feeling.
- Praying a blessing on our “enemies” works!
Another Prayer:
Dear Lord, I know I am a sinner and only redeemed by your grace and what you did on the cross and resurrection for me. I know that only through your grace can I forgive my friend. I decide in the Name of Jesus to forgive – because I’ve been forgiven. I know you love this person and I ask you to give me that love – the love you have for them because Lord I cannot do this on my own. I pray to forgive this person and to love this person, and I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.
Do you have people in your life that have annoyed you – that have hurt you? And you know in your heart that you have been wronged? Let’s pray – let’s give that to the Lord today and allow the Lord to free you as He has freed me!
Dear Lord, I know I am a sinner and only redeemed by your grace and what you did on the cross and resurrection for me. I know that only through your grace can I forgive my friend. I decide in the Name of Jesus to forgive – because I’ve been forgiven. I know you love this person and I ask you to give me that love – the love you have for them because Lord I cannot do this on my own. I pray to forgive this person and to love this person, and I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.
Let’s go forth – you and me, together proclaiming as the apostles did – what the Lord has done for them!
Scriptures on forgiveness:
Colossians: 3:13 – Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Matthew: 6:14-15 – For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
What are your favorite forgiveness scriptures? Make a list of these and pray them when you have difficulty forgiving.
The post Forgiveness appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Some Women PodcastThe Power of Praying WomenIn this episode of Some Women, the hosts explore the transformative power of prayer and the profound impact praying women can have on families, communities, and the world. Through personal stories, Scripture reflections, and faith-filled encouragement, the conversation highlights how prayer—both personal and communal—deepens our relationship with God and opens the door to spiritual breakthrough.
Hosted by Angela Rizzo of the Diocese of Rockville Centre in Long Island, New York, this episode features regular panelists Pat Higginbotham of West Virginia and Jackie France of Ohio, along with special guest Maria Luque Raucio of Miami, Florida, coordinator of the Jesus Is Lord Magnificat chapter.
Together they share powerful insights on perseverance in prayer, trusting God’s will, and the role of faith-filled communities in strengthening our spiritual lives.
Opening PrayerPat Higginbotham opens the conversation with a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide the discussion and teach listeners how to pray with gratitude, faith, repentance, and trust in God’s will.
What You’ll Hear in This EpisodePrayer Is a RelationshipThe hosts discuss how prayer goes beyond traditional forms such as novenas and the rosary. While these are beautiful expressions of faith, prayer is ultimately a relationship with God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Praying Through BreakthroughsMaria shares a personal experience of a spiritual breakthrough through persistent prayer and fasting. Sometimes prayer requires perseverance and deep trust in God’s timing and purpose.
The Power of Perseverance in PrayerPat reflects on the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18) and how God sometimes delays answers—not out of indifference, but out of patience and love as He shapes our hearts.
Faith and God’s Perfect TimingThe panel discusses how prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will. While we may ask for what seems good, God always desires what is best for us.
Personal Prayer and Listening to GodJackie shares how prayer has always been an ongoing conversation with the Lord and how God sometimes challenges our expectations—especially when praying for loved ones.
The Role of Community in PrayerPraying with other believers strengthens faith and helps us persevere. The women share how prayer communities provide encouragement, support, and spiritual strength.
The Gift of Prayer in the SpiritThe discussion includes reflections on praying in the Spirit and the gift of tongues, highlighting how this form of prayer allows the Holy Spirit to intercede when words fall short.
Praise as Powerful PrayerEven when answers seem delayed, praising God and trusting His plan shifts our focus from our problems to His faithfulness.
Key Scriptures Mentioned Matthew 21:22 – “Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive.” * Luke 18 – The Parable of the Persistent Widow * 2 Peter 3:9 – God’s patience and desire for repentance * John 10:10 – “I came so that they may have life and have it abundantly.” * Daniel 10* – Spiritual warfare surrounding prayer
Encouragement for ListenersThe hosts invite listeners to grow deeper in their prayer lives by:
- Spending time in praise and worship
- Joining a prayer group or community
- Trusting God’s will even when answers seem delayed
- Persevering in faith and hope
Prayer is powerful—and when women come together in faith, miracles, healing, and transformation can occur.
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
The post Magnificat Presents Some Women The Power of Praying Women appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
In the middle of our troubles, we can rely on only one person to get us through: God. Today’s podcast is about holy reliance, and we will delve into ways to trust in God even when we feel like things are hopeless!
Holy Reliance ~ Episode 314What is your first reaction when you are struggling? Today, I had a perfect opportunity to practice what I “preach” and failed miserably! Yet, with God, we get a do-over, a chance to change, repent, and sin no more. We have a chance to see the areas where we need work and to make a decision. Changing is difficult, especially because we want our results to be instantaneous. But change takes time, and it is hard work, consistent work, showing up and rolling up our sleeves, and expecting the best from ourselves and those around us.
I volunteer—a lot! I was very good at one point in time at saying, “No!” when asked. But something happened, and I’m not sure what. I often feel overwhelmed and that there is no more to give, yet God keeps showing up and showing me that I am not in charge. He is in charge, and when I give Him my yes and my life, He makes everything work out!
Do you rely on the Lord for everything? Do you ask God for a parking space? Do you pray when you need help with your finances and to pay your bills? When my two youngest were going to college, I prayed that the Lord would provide scholarships, and He did! We can ask God for the mundane as well as an increase in our spiritual life and an increase in our faith.
Holy Reliance – The ProphetScripture talks about prophets and how they did the work of the Lord. Each of them had challenges. Some, like Jonah, were not very good prophets, but one that stood out was Ezekiel. Ezekiel is a prophet, and he is being called by the Lord with a warning. Ezekiel 2:1-2 – He said to me, “Son of man,[a] stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” 2 As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.
In verses 3-4 the God states: I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their ancestors have been in revolt against me to this very day. 4 The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn
He goes on to explain the hardships Ezekiel will have, yet the prophet does not turn his back on God. Why? Because he has Holy Reliance. He knows his strength comes from the Almighty. How can he speak to the Israelites otherwise? Even knowing the hardships, he continues on. Can we do that? Can we persevere even when we know there will be hardships?
Holy Reliance – The PsalmistThe Psalmist knew this as well – in Psalm 121:1-8 (read on air), we read.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Read those verses slowly, pray them, and add them to your prayer journal. Mediate on the words, “Where does my help come from?” Many times, we think our help is from ourselves. We are the ones who get things done. We can only rely on ourselves because others let us down! But that is not true. The next verse tells us, “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Do we realize that God, the Creator of the Universe and everything in it, cares about us in an intimate way? He knows everything about us, and yet we rely on ourselves or perhaps those closest to us. On a practical level, when I work, I rely on the tools I use, the computer, the internet, and a microphone to record. But if the internet goes down or my computer shuts off midstream, I’m stuck, I’m frustrated, and my peace is shaken. It really does not take much. In our lives, we can quit or continue on.
I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve saved one finished recording over another, and I’ve had to re-record a podcast. But I don’t—okay, I try not to let it get me down because I feel that the Lord has something so much better for me to say! I’ll get a thought or an inspiration, some idea that hits me, and I will be glad that I had an opportunity to do it again.
What about spiritually? What about those times we know we’ve let ourselves down or the Lord down? This is where we can repent. We can once again call upon the Lord. We can ask him to help us. And when we do, He shows up in a mighty way! In previous podcasts, we’ve discussed miracles. Do we expect miracles in our daily lives?
Friends, we don’t do it alone – in fact, we can’t do it without the help of God! When you are struggling, turn to Psalm 119:7-8
I will praise you with an upright heart
as I learn your righteous laws.
8 I will obey your decrees;
do not utterly forsake me.
I love that! Do not forsake me, Lord. I need you now more than ever. We must have trust, and this trust must come with a humble heart. Our hearts ache because we fail to see the goodness around us and focus on the hardships or our failures. Even in our failures, we must trust that God has a righteous plan and will turn it around. Think of the book of Ruth. God turned around a tragedy, the death of her husband and her sister’s husband, and she left her home and went with her mother-in-law Naomi to Israel, where she later remarried and had a child. Ruth was the grandmother of King David, which led to the lineage of Jesus Christ. Our King and Savior!
God has a plan for our lives. What can we do? We can trust. We can rely on Him, we can ask God to give us more of Him and we can ask for an abundance of faith and strength to traits we can always use in our lives. Amen~
The post Holy Reliance (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 14, Bernadette PatrickBernadette Patrick shares her powerful testimony of baptism, reconversion, the Eucharist, and returning to the fullness of the Catholic faith.
Episode SummaryIn this powerful and grace-filled episode of Magnificat Proclaims, hosts Monique Mousseau (Our Lady of Grace and Joy, NYC) and Marianne Ridini Spencer (Our Lady’s Desert Roses, Palm Desert, CA) welcome special guest Bernadette Patrick from Trinidad and Tobago.
Bernadette shares her deeply moving testimony of baptism, near death as an infant, her journey away from the Catholic Church, and her dramatic reconversion through a Catholic retreat experience that changed her life forever.
Her story is one of humility, grace, sacramental fullness, and missionary discipleship.
Magnificat® Ministry’s YouTube Channel Video Link :
https://youtu.be/UIN4LUKuFjE?si=7QYxGiuLp6hL-Wzj
Opening PrayerThe episode begins with the Flame of Love Unity Prayer, revealed to Hungarian mystic Elizabeth Kindelmann:
“My adorable Jesus, may our feet journey together…
May our lips pray together to gain mercy from the Eternal Father. Amen.
O Blessed Lady, spread the effect of the flame of love over all of humanity. Amen.”
About Our Guest: Bernadette Patrick Born in Trinidad and Tobago * Serves pastorally and professionally in the Church * Co-founder of Towers of Strength Community * Established a thriving lunch-hour prayer group in Port of Spain * Caribbean Regional Representative for Magnificat * MBA in Financial Management * Conference speaker and leader in women’s ministries * Describes herself as a “missionary disciple”*, inspired by Pope Francis
What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeThe Power of BaptismBernadette shares how:
- She was born premature and critically ill.
- Doctors believed she would not survive.
- Her parents rushed her to baptism.
- She received both Baptism and Anointing of the Sick.
- Her twin brother passed away — but she lived.
For Bernadette, baptism was not symbolic — it was life-giving.
She reflects on:
- The grace of baptism
- The importance of not delaying the sacrament
- The beginning of sacramental life (Baptism → Confirmation → Eucharist)
Leaving the Church — and What Was MissingAs a young adult, Bernadette:
- Was drawn to Pentecostal communities
- Experienced vibrant worship and strong teaching
- Spent nearly 10 years away from the Catholic Church
Yet something was missing.
She describes:
- A deep spiritual hunger
- Feeling spiritually malnourished
- St. Augustine’s words: “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”
She compares leaving the fullness of the Church to:
Eating candy instead of a full, nourishing meal.
A Dramatic ReconversionAt a Catholic youth retreat, Bernadette:
- Went reluctantly (and ready to argue!)
-
Challenged God on three things:
- The Holy Spirit in the Catholic Church
- The Real Presence in the Eucharist
- The power of the Rosary
During the retreat:
- She witnessed charismatic prayer and healing
- Experienced Eucharistic Adoration profoundly
- Encountered the power of the Rosary in a personal way
In humility, she surrendered.
That retreat marked the beginning of her return to the fullness of sacramental life.
“The Full Plate” of CatholicismBernadette beautifully describes Catholicism as:
- A full plate of spiritual nourishment
- Organic, rich, complete food
- Sacraments as essential nutrients
- The Eucharist as central
She emphasizes:
- Reconciliation
- Confirmation
- Eucharistic life
- Marian devotion
Missionary DiscipleshipInspired by Pope Francis, Bernadette lives her baptismal call as a missionary disciple.
For over 30 years, she has:
- Led women’s ministries
- Served in Magnificat
- Encouraged reconversion and deeper faith
- Helped others encounter Christ
She credits:
- Her mother’s persistent prayer
- The intercession of Our Lady
- Ongoing sacramental grace
Encouragement for ListenersBernadette offers hope:
- Don’t stop praying for loved ones who have left the Church.
- God creates opportunities for encounter.
- Humility opens the door to grace.
- No one is beyond God’s reach.
Closing PrayerBernadette closes with a beautiful prayer for those who have grown distant from the faith, asking:
- Jesus the Good Shepherd to seek the wandering
- The Holy Spirit to remove obstacles
- Mary, Mother of the Church, to intercede
- A return to the Eucharist and Reconciliation
“May they know they are never forgotten, never unloved, and always welcome in your Church.”
Learn More About MagnificatMagnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
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About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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Taming The Tongue – Episode 18In James 3:3 he talks about the power of the tongue. In this episode, Felice discusses how some of us need a good dose of taming the tongue in our everyday lives. Can you imagine a world where we are encouraged and uplifted, it can be done and it begins with us.
How often have you said something you regret, to your spouse, your children, or someone else close to you? Why is it that we hurt the people we love the most? Often, as parents we often find ourselves saying things in anger, frustration and then wished for a do-over? The good news is we do get a do-over each and every day, but truthfully our frustrations often occur in direct correlation to our experience and relationship with God.
Recently I was in church and praying. As I was praying to the Lord, a strong thought of anger came over me of an injustice that happened in my life. It wasn’t a big thing but it was something that hurt me. In my mind, I knew it was silly to be upset because I understood the action behind the cause of my pain was not intentional, yet the more I thought about it the angrier I became. So angry in fact that I almost got up and left the church!
I realized my mistake, repented and asked the Lord for forgiveness and the Lord relieved me of the burden of hurt. When we talk about taming the tongue, the same goes for words that are left unsaid. Sometimes we don’t know what to say and even our silence can cause harm to those we love.
God said the greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbor as yourself. These are what I call heart issues. We know things in our heart but our minds are a different story.
Faith changes our heart. It fills our heart with every good thing. If God’s will is in your heart you will know what to do in difficult situations, and in times when there is nowhere else to turn but to God for the answers. Life often throws us into situations where we feel totally out of control. Ask any parent of young children. One minute everything is going well and the next minute chaos! You can’t help but cry out to God in times such as this rather than losing your temper. It never helps.
I use to say, I have to yell because I’m Italian, and once I yell I feel better. This might be true, but I can guarantee while I felt better my kids didn’t.
Taming the Tongue: Great Scriptures:* Colossians 4:6:
* Ephesians 4:29
* Proverbs 10:19
* Proverbs 15:4
* Matthew 15:11
* Psalm 34:13
Proverbs 15:1-2
Proverbs 6:16-19
So, how do you apply this to your life? Taming the Tongue 101:
- When you want to lash out, take a deep breath – pause.
- Prepare a statement – I’m so angry I don’t know what to say right now, but let me pray about it and I will let you know later.
- Avoid confrontation – yes, you need to address bad behavior (with your kids) but, avoid arguing. Start with – what you did is not right, Avoid character assassination. Address the sin, not the person.
- What is really going on here?
- Relationship – it is all about love, the love of God within us and the fruits of the Holy Spirit – the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the peace and joy that only God can give.
I believe that many times when we lose it and we are upset many times it is because of what we believe the problem is rather than what it actually is – what I mean by this is often when we listen, (which we don’t want to because we are angry!) then we realize much of what we were upset about really isn’t valid. And if it is, take a breath and use a prepared statement!
Listen, no one said life is easy, there are often ups and downs in each person’s life that is a struggle, but if we take the time and make a plan, we can sure work toward taming the tongue and having fewer regrets in life!
You won’t want to miss the next upcoming episode – with Deanna Bartalin who wrote a book on the topic and has a wealth of great ideas that are applicable
Thank you to our Network Sponsor: CTCMath.com
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Kindness is goodThe world can always use another person to spread kindness. Why shouldn’t it be you? I know it’s not always easy, let’s face it – you’ve got just as much going on as the next person. How can you be kind when it’s not easy or you’d rather treat the person the way they are treating others?
3 tips on how to be kind* Remember this: we don’t know what burdens other people are carrying. * Avoid the mentality that says you give back what you get. * Say or do the kind thing when people are unkind, it often disarms them and hopefully makes them think.
What if you don’t have it in you* Take a long pause before you respond to negativity and consider not responding at all if you know what you will say is not kind. * Take a break and refill however is most helpful to you. Take a walk, grab a drink with a friend, pray, read a fun book, sit in silence, play in the leaves, snow, sand (depends on the season and where you live).
This may be a bit (ahem, okay, very) obvious, but be kind to others this week, especially to those who are unkind to you or others.
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Episode #2 – Introduction to Trauma Series (Avoiding Spiritual Identity Theft!)
Have you or someone you love endured sufferings in which you continue to feel stuck? Does this leave you feeling confused or even fearful, perhaps even rejected or abandoned by God? Unfortunately, there are so many types of trauma and such experiences are so prevalent that it’s difficult to imagine someone who hasn’t been traumatized at one time or another.
Have you ever been told or thought that if you only had greater faith you’d be able to overcome feelings of abandonment, rejection or insecurity? In this series Margaret will help unpack how the neurophysiology of trauma can leave us trapped in the emotions from traumatic experiences regardless of how great our faith is. Come to a deeper understanding of what happens in the person during traumatic experiences and deepen in your sense of God’s love. Grow in compassion for yourself and others.
Due to a very specific biological reaction during trauma, even decades later we can default to a mode of fear leading to cortisol (a stress hormone) and shutting off oxytocin (a feel-good hormone associated with love, trust, and friendship) when we encounter reminders of those traumatic experiences. Knowing the body responds in this way can help us to cling to the truth and not give into a skewed perspective that is fear-based.
The evil one wants to divide you off within yourself, disconnect you off from others, and even give you a sense of separation from God by spiritual identity theft! He wants you to think that your symptoms of feeling fearful and rejected are really who you are. The truth is they aren’t who you are. They are only how you are doing in a moment. Understanding where those feelings come from can help unmask the lies we can take on and operate out of and even more it can help us stay grounded in the truth of our identity as God’s beloved children!
My first book, More Than Words: The Freedom to Thrive After Trauma, is available on Amazon.com and will provide you with more information about how traumatic experiences can impact us even decades later.
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Historical Roots of Secular Humanism ~ Episode 35
What are the roots of secular humanism? Where do they come from and why should they matter to Christians? Listen as Father David explains the roots and how this humanism has entered the lives of those even in the church.
The stress and process of the current pandemic place many unexpected challenges in our lives that are not always easy to handle. Shutting down of churches, government mandates, confusing reports, fear of infection, and lastly our own personal faith responses to name just a few. We did not just arrive at this cultural dilemma recently; this societal breakdown has been coming for some time. What are some of the significant movements that have contributed to our current “state of affairs”?
Roots of Secular HumanismWhat are the roots of Secular Humanism? It begins in Europe.
In Europe, in the 17th and 18th centuries, a major movement emerged entitled the Enlightenment. This social event happened in strong reaction against the mandates, prescriptions, and controls of Christian belief systems, especially Catholicism. For some academic professionals, this was an honest attempt to search for the truth beyond the rules and regulations of current society. Acting against the societal faith norms in control, it eventually led to an abandonment of essential established ways of life producing a complicated ferment against the peaceful balance of the age. In short, it consisted of an aggressive attempt to separate the principles and values of humanism from their Christian foundations. This movement emphasized a purely scientific and rational approach to human realities and the truths of life.
The Enlightenment held and promoted an exclusive approach to truth that did away with biblical revelation, supernatural beliefs, the Ten Commandments, and no need for God to live a moral, meaningful, truth-filled way of life. If God remained in the picture He was pushed off to the outer margins of existence. Of course, the Church soundly resisted this movement, sometimes violently. This movement impacted all the domains of human reality. Specifically, in the French Revolution, its aggressive momentum ignited the fire of violent rebellion against the Catholic Church. Bishops, Priests, religious, and many laypeople were brutely put to death. Even though several Popes and Church leaders proclaimed their errors this philosophy of life caught on significantly affecting the thinking and lifestyle of Europeans, and by the way made major inroads in the emerging way of life of many Americans.
The European brand of the Enlightenment influential among the French tended to fuel the thinking and ideals of the Foundering Fathers of our Country, along with the ideas of Deism. The beginnings of the American ideals, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were encouraged by France who supported the Founding Fathers in their efforts to be free from English domination. The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States from France. Benjamin Franklin made frequent lengthy visits to France. He was very comfortable with the more modern view of an enlightened life and personally espoused those principles in his lifestyle. Many of our Fathers really held the belief system of Deism, which is the core of the Unitarian faith. This religion holds to faith in unity in the One God, however, we are left to develop a humanistic spiritual or religious way of life without any or very little demands on the individual. One is pretty much free to carve out a good and moral life stance by humanistic efforts alone while placing our efforts in deciding our own truth about life or one’s self enlightened humanism. Thus, the principles and values of the Enlightenment and Deism infiltrated the spirit and reasoning of our Nation.
Over a relativity short period of time, the spirit, principles, and values of enlightened human liberalism captured the social atmosphere, the thinking, and development of “the American Dream.” Wealth, and attitudes of comfort, affluence, scientific advancement, social, and economic control infused and infiltrated the American way of life. Over the last seventy years, these accepted and promoted realities have nurtured and matured in our society expanding and deepening among the peoples of our Country. All the while infiltrating the minds, hearts, and relationships of our citizens and our young people and subtlety producing a new religious or spiritual humanism called secularism humanism.
Secular Humanism is a world view and way of life. It believes God is not necessary to be moral. As a spiritual state of being it presumes that human beings are capable of being ethical or moral without being religious or believing in a deity. Along with this is an understanding and conviction that secular humanism is a way of life that continually adapts searching for truth through science and human experience and various philosophies. It consists of a world view that is primarily concerned with the promotion of human welfare in this world. Secular humanism denies the subordination of human dignity and happiness to supernatural realities. It would reject religious faith and hold distrust in absolutes when they are religiously proposed, rejecting moral absolutes in any form. Our moral sense of which concluded in a blind alley leading to mental confusion. Secular humanism would lead to moral relativism, ethical bankruptcy, and religious indifference.
In the later part of the 19th Century, secular humanism emerged in the world and specifically in the Church as a movement entitled Modernism. It was a strong effort to liberalize the “tight” laws, principles, and practices of Catholic life. The Popes of the time engaged in an aggressive effort to eliminate its influence from Catholic life. Pius X took a fearful shut down approach to this invasive cultural influence. Leo XIII who followed him in the Papacy was more open to defeat this cultural disintegration by opening the doors to evaluation, study, and constructive adaptation. This approach encouraged an intellectual reassessment of scripture, liturgical development, and a review of pastoral theological considerations. This was an honest attempt to curtail the negative effects of the Enlightenment and its brainchild modernistic secular humanism. Some would say that this effort would unintentionally open the door for its advancement in the 20th Century and its 21st Century maturation. For example, a case where a prominent official publicly referring to the grace of God while supporting and promoting the practice of abortion and the enterprises of Planned Parenthood.
Roots of Secular Humanism started long ago.Years of study and planning transpired before Pope John XXIII announced the opening of Vatican II in 1961, which concluded in 1965. The Documents of the Council are a sound presentation of teaching designed to move the Church into a fresh authentic adaption of the Church in the modern world. The aftermath in the Church a major struggle. Pope Paul the VI did his best to steer the ship in a positive and fruitful direction, but the inroads of the Enlightenment and Modernism caused controversies so that this positive effort would not be the case. Eventually, confusion, reaction, and misrepresentations emerged, which we still suffer from today with even an increased intensity. Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI firmly promoted a “hermeneutic of continuity” as a standard for the implementation of the authentic traditional teaching of the Catholic Church. Pope Francis is committed to the teaching and values of Vatican Council II. His approach appears to be on an emphasis to adapt the Council’s teaching to the areas in the Church and world where human life is taking place, and where justices are ignored, and the poor suffer the consequences. Therefore, without compromising authentic traditional Catholic teaching he attempts to move the Church where human life is happening. In this regard, he appears to be a supporter of meaningful and just socialism. Obviously, this approach is not going down well with some members of the Church led by some members of the hierarchy. This opposition has become an intense battle that has reached the position of a new scandal. It has become a complicated mess. This battle has some relationship to society’s struggle and adherence to the pseudo-spirituality and religiosity of contemporary secular humanism. Pope Francis’s hesitation to present clear Catholic moral teaching, especially in the areas of sexuality and family life is very upsetting to some sincere members of the Catholic Church. This concern needs significant attention.
May we ourselves do a life review to discern if we have been influenced, adopted, or caved into some aspects of the religion and spirituality of secular humanism; even if we unintentionally ingested these discordant values to some degree into the ambient, environment, or culture of our American life.
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New Eyes of Faith – Episode 263As a Christian, it is important to practice our faith. But what does your faith look like? The new eyes of faith is an awakening. In this episode, we explore the meaning of faith and how we sometimes deceive ourselves.
Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math – visit the website at CTCMath.com
Faith can be subjective. Your faith is naturally based upon your experiences, your understanding, and even your denomination. Even two people sitting next to each other in church can have a different take on faith. This lends itself to an interesting question. Where is your faith, and can you say you practice what you believe?
This may be a hard question to answer and one that will take some time and thought.
Do we love the One who gave us life? The one who loves us beyond anything we can imagine. Let’s take a moment and think about that. You. Are. Loved. That alone should open our eyes and give us new eyes of faith. That should fill us with such love that we want to share this love with others.
That is the crux of the issue that many of us face in our world today. Those who say they have faith and those who do not practice what they supposedly believe. Listen, we all fall short, but by the grace of God, we flounder. Thankfully Jesus came into the world to redeem us. We read in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (Read on air).
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.When our eyes are opened, we see evil for evil and good for good. That is why so many of us are upset by what is happening in our world today. Many people, they have been desensitized, and they can not see evil for evil.Our eyes can be opened to greater faith and a deeper walk with the Lord, and at times it takes something catastrophic to happen before we can see the light, so to speak. Many things we consider important no longer are, and those things we hold onto, we find we can do without. Has that happened to you? You find that what was previously important is no longer an issue or of great concern. It is as if the blinders were removed; now, we can see clearly.
In Genesis 3:5, the tempter tells Adam and Eve a lie; the scripture reads: “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
So, what did they do? Genesis 3:6-7 (read on air).
What did they receive? New eyes of faith, but it was not a positive outcome for the pair. The eyes of Adam and Eve were opened when they ate the forbidden fruit. God warned them. His perfect will was for them to live with Him forever in the place He had created for them. Instead, they made a choice, and we see it perfectly in hindsight –
Scripture often talks about finding “favor in your eyes,” with many references to finding favor in God’s eyes. That should be our goal, to find favor in the eyes of God. How do we do this? How do we deepen our love for God? One way is by spending time in His presence. We have many reasons why this can’t happen. We have family responsibilities, work, school, and other obligations. And, it is a choice.
New Eyes of FaithJust like Adam and Eve had a choice. This is the first lesson we learn in the Bible about good vs. evil. It is the enemy against us, the evil one. He hates what God created. God created and said, “It is good,” and that is what the evil one wants to destroy. He wants to destroy our families and us. An increase of faith helps us weather the storm of life, but we need that connection to each other and God.
Faith is a connection to the Almighty. We are made for connection. One of the podcasters on this network, Margaret Vasquez, who hosts the Wholeness and Holiness Podcast, talks about connection. As a trauma specialist, she knows that a lack of connection often causes dysfunction.
We can become disconnected from ourselves, those around us, and those we love the most. And a disconnection from God can lead us to other less desirable things! We can find we lack direction, and worse. Who we are is important, but who we are in Christ is important to renewing faith. Do we witness the gospel message? How can we when we are struggling ourselves? It is time to take a deep refreshing breath and look at our faith with new eyes.
As a business owner, I know that I better fulfill that promise when I promise to do something. No one cares about our excuses. Thankfully my job is not life and death, but it is important to keep websites up, bills paid so that the podcast stream doesn’t stop on your app and other things that we do to keep the business running. All of our behind-the-scenes work is invisible, but it is necessary for our customers. Many of my decisions were based on troubleshooting better options.
The worse thing we can do is not admit when we are wrong. We can all improve. Isaiah 2:10-12 (Read on air). Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight. (Talk about humility)
Isaiah 5:20-21 (Read on air)
In this way, we should troubleshoot our options when it comes to renewing our faith and praying to the Lord to open our eyes.
We can ask that the Lord gives us the new eyes of faith to:
- Identify areas where we have sinned.
- Make better choices.
- To choose God first above all others.
- To make time to pray.
- To get our priorities right
Remember, faith is a choice. It is a free-will option given to us by an Almighty God who loves us and who loves you beyond anything we can comprehend. It is perfect love, and no one can love you the way God can. We are created in His image. We were created for a specific purpose. We were created to love and serve Him, but He gives us so much more than anything we can do for Him. Our challenge this week is to pray that the Lord opens our eyes to areas we need to improve and gives us a deeper faith.
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Finding Community | Episode 10 – Some Women Podcast (Luke 8:1–3)In this episode of the Some Women Podcast, the Magnificat® Central Service Team gathers once again to reflect on the meaning and power of Christian community. Through personal stories drawn from family life, friendships, and involvement in Magnificat Ministry, they share how authentic community—while not always comfortable—leads us closer to God and helps us grow in holiness.
This heartfelt conversation explores how God uses relationships to refine us, strengthen our faith, and draw us into deeper trust in Him and one another.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:* How Christian community helps shape and strengthen our spiritual lives * Why growth in holiness often happens through relationships * The challenges and blessings of living faith in community * How God works through family, friendship, and ministry to draw us closer to Him
Scripture Inspiration: Luke 8:1–3This episode is part of the Some Women podcast series, inspired by Luke 8:1–3, which highlights the women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples. Their example invites us to reflect on important questions:
- Who were the women who followed Jesus?
- How are we called to follow and serve Him today?
- What role does community play in faithful discipleship?
About the Some Women PodcastPresented by Magnificat®, the Some Women Podcast features panel discussions—along with occasional guest panelists—on topics relevant to Catholic women today, including:
- Growing in holiness
- Building Christ-centered community
- Living a Holy Spirit–led life
- Spiritual warfare
- Nurturing a vibrant prayer life
Each episode reflects on Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church, inviting listeners to pray, learn, and experience what God can do when we open our hearts to Him.
About Magnificat® – A Ministry to Catholic WomenFounded in 1981, Magnificat® is an international Catholic nonprofit with over 70 chapters worldwide. The ministry exists to evangelize and encourage women to grow in holiness by opening more fully to the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Inspired by Mary’s words in Luke 1:46—“My soul magnifies the Lord”—Magnificat® gatherings include:
- Praise and worship
- Personal testimonies of God’s transforming grace
- Faith-sharing in a welcoming, community-centered environment
Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, as a model for all Christians—especially women.
Learn more at: https://magnificat-ministry.org
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Discipline and Faith: The Inner Circle ~ Episode 369In this episode, we’ll discuss being part of Christ’s inner circle through discipline and faith, which leads to true discipleship. We’ll reflect on the cost of following Jesus, which is outweighed by the hope it brings. I’ll also share the ways faith empowers us to live holy lives in today’s world. Let’s begin with a prayer: Lord, open our hearts to Your will and guide us in the discipline of faith. Amen.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
As I was praying about the last few podcasts, the recurring theme was on silence, pondering in awe, Almighty God, and sacrifice, meaning discipline. I am wondering if it’s because I need it? The answer is yes! I do need it, and I need to be reminded of it often. That is typically how it goes when I podcast.
What Is the Inner Circle?Have you ever wanted to be in that inner circle—in that group where people care for each other, where they are there for each other, where they will do anything for you? Many of us are blessed to have this within our families or a close group of friends. Can you imagine living in the time of Christ? What was His inner circle? It began with Joseph and Mary, and more than likely extended family. It then expanded to those who were called by Christ, who accompanied Him, who sat at His feet, and who benefited from His teaching.
Today, we have an opportunity to be in that inner circle by the very nature of our faith and belief in that Jesus Christ is indeed Lord. But being a disciple takes discipline, and in a way, it goes along with my last podcast on striving for holiness. I think we can be happy in the fact that the disciples selected by Christ were, in essence, a ragtag group. They were not the elites, the most learned, or the people with the most money; they were everyday working people, what people like to refer to as the everyday man. But that gives us such hope and, again, purpose. We need hope to wake up each day, praying it is better than the last. We need purpose, because without it we have no focus or goal.
As Scripture reminds us, and I love this! 1 Corinthians 1:27-28: “But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong, God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are.” This shows us that God calls the ordinary to do extraordinary things through Him. Don’t you want to be called? The very fact that you are listening today is a call.
The Cost of DiscipleshipThese men learned to give up not only the life they had lived but to become disciples in a way that was going to give them true freedom and true joy—but at a cost. And you know that’s what keeps a lot of people from Christianity: the cost. Discipleship is not free.
It can be learned, but it takes work. Sometimes it means losing your friends, your job, and even your life. In some countries, Christians even today are being persecuted. They’re being wiped off the face of the Earth, and we are helpless, it seems, to stop this genocide. This cost is high, and yet most of us are not called to that level—yet we still take our freedom in Christianity for granted.
In Luke 14:27-28: “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” Jesus calls us to count the cost, but the reward is eternal joy and freedom in Him. Think about this. The world offers us a counterfeit, something that is temporary. Yet, Christianity offers us salvation and eternal life.
Discipline in Faith: Why It’s Worth ItMost of us would agree that it’s important for an Olympic athlete to train, spend countless dollars, give up relationships and sleep, and push their bodies to unbelievable lengths to win a medal and the prestige and honor that come with it. In fact, it’s expected, and that doesn’t keep people from wanting to strive for a seat on an Olympic team. That isn’t just accepted, for a winner, it is mandated.
But isn’t it okay to work toward learning more about God? Faith is a gift, and salvation is free if we choose to believe in Christ as Savior. Yet, many don’t believe we should lose sleep to study, to pray, to surround ourselves with like-minded people, or to choose to be alone and contemplate the Almighty and what He has done for us!
Why then is the cost of discipline and being in the inner circle of people who love, honor, and serve the Lord so unattainable to some? I’ve been told in the past that being a Christian means giving up my freedom, that I am narrow minded that the gate to heaven is not narrow. If giving up my freedom means that I have trained and educated myself in the Word of God and the teachings of the Church, in the love that God has for me—that’s striving for holiness as I shared in the last episode. It means that if I watch what I say and govern my speech, I can bless others with words that build up rather than tear people down. I can be aware that true holiness means following God in all things. It means taking time to fast. It means spending time with God in silence. It means surrounding myself with others who are also uplifting and love the Lord.
Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Discipline in faith is our race toward holiness, and it’s empowering. And our example is Christ.
Living as Disciples TodayDiscipline isn’t cheap, but it is so worthwhile. And true discipleship means asking the Lord again and again and again for His will in our lives. We can’t be complacent; that time is gone. Our world is in shambles, and people of faith are needed now more than ever. We have to be that voice in the darkness. We have to let others know that the love of God is true love, that the love of God does take discipline, but the love of God is so worthwhile. We have a purpose; we have a goal. We know that the enemy has been defeated, and I believe that the enemy knows that which is why there is so much chaos and confusion in our world. It is to take our eyes off of the prize, which is faith in Christ. In his defeat the enemy wants to take down as many as he can. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15)
And I challenge you today to make a list, to figure out the ways that you can, in the little slice of life that God has given you, share about the goodness of God. Sometimes it just means being a good example, a good neighbor, a good friend, a good student, a good coworker. Sometimes it means being a witness to others in ways that you will never see—it’s planting those seeds but letting God harvest. But whatever that is for you, know that you are part of this inner circle of those who love the Lord, who want to sit at His feet and hear what He has to say. And we can do that today by opening our Bibles, by memorizing the Word, and by living lives that are holy. May God be praised today and always.
Philippians 3:12-14 inspires us to press on: “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brethren, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Thank you for joining me on this journey of faith and discipline. Remember, God’s love calls us to more—let’s embrace it with joy!
Related Episodes on the Ultimate Christian Podcast NetworkFor more encouragement on faith, purpose, and holiness, check out these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast under the category on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life – Explore sainthood as a daily invitation for every believer.
- Vocation and Purpose – Discover how Christians balance family, work, and faith through vocation.
- Your God Given Purpose – Guidance on finding your purpose through listening to God and trusting His plan.
- Discerning God’s Will – Insights on hearing God’s voice and aligning your life with His will.
- Listening To The Lord – Practical ways to hear God’s voice in daily life for deeper faith.
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Testimony of Karen JedrzejewskiMagnificat Podcast – A Ministry to Catholic Women
Episode OverviewIn this powerful episode of the Magnificat Ministry Podcast, Karen Jedrzejewski shares her extraordinary journey from a painful and abusive childhood to complete surrender to Jesus Christ. What began as a lifelong love of horses ultimately became the path God used to draw her into healing, faith, and redemption.
Karen’s testimony is one of perseverance, recovery, and God’s transforming grace—even in the most broken places.
Karen Jedrzejweski- A Story: From Brokenness to BelongingKaren grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in a deeply dysfunctional and abusive home. By the age of 14, she realized she could no longer remain with her family and began moving from one household to another.
At 16, she dropped out of school, bought a motorcycle, and moved to a ranch in Ohio. While horses were her passion, they were not enough to stop her descent into addiction and self-destruction.
In 1992, after entering a treatment facility, Karen began her road to recovery—and it was there she encountered Jesus Christ in a life-changing way. Following a devastating horse accident that nearly took her life, Karen experienced a moment of complete surrender to the Lord.
Life After SurrenderToday, Karen is:
- Married for 36 years
- A mother of three adult children
- A grandmother
- Fully devoted to seeking and serving God
Her faith journey didn’t stop there. Karen’s musical gift as a drummer was recognized within her prayer group, and she has faithfully served as a drummer with the Living Praise Worship Team for over 20 years.
About The Testimony of Karen Jedrzejweski Recorded: August 2025 * Location: Pittsburgh, PA Magnificat Chapter * Length:* 34 minutes, 31 seconds
This episode is a moving witness to how God redeems suffering, restores purpose, and calls His daughters into deeper relationship with Him.
Listen & Learn More Listen to the full episode:
https://www.magnificatministrypodcast.com
About Magnificat – A Ministry to Catholic Women
Learn more about the mission, chapters, and events of Magnificat by visiting:
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Holiness Is (Im)Possible: Striving for Sainthood in Everyday Life ~ Episode 368Have you ever considered becoming holy? What about becoming a saint? Do you believe it’s possible, or do you think holiness is impossible? Maybe you believe we can’t be holy—only Jesus, or perhaps some of His followers, or subsequent martyrs and saints became holy. But you and me? No way. My friends, this is a diabolical lie, and many Christians believe it. Therefore, they don’t strive for holiness because why should they? We’re striving for a goal that doesn’t make sense or isn’t possible, especially in the day in which we live today. But holiness is possible.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
Scripture on God’s Call to HolinessAs Scripture reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 4:3: “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from immorality…” God desires us to be holy, set apart for Him. This verse encourages us to pursue purity and dedication in our daily walk with the Lord. But we can’t do it alone, and when we try to do it without prayer, without seeking God, we will fail. So many times I read a scripture verse and think there is no way I can do it, but then I remember I don’t have to do it without help!
Additionally, in 1 Peter 1:15-16, we read: “But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.'” These words further remind us and confirm what we know intellectually, that holiness is not just a distant ideal but a calling we can embrace through God’s grace. Sometimes getting things from our heads to our hearts can be a challenge.
Why Striving for Holiness MattersI used to think that striving to do good—well, good enough—was a decent goal. I didn’t think anyone needed to strive to be great because that’s an unattainable goal. Plus, it’s kind of vain thinking that what we do or who we are is great. But truly, if we are sons and daughters—adopted sons and daughters of God—then by definition, we are heirs to the kingdom. We should strive for holiness not so we can boast but so we can give all the glory to God.
Friends, we get distracted by semantics and we think that holiness isn’t possible this side of heaven. In fact, we very rarely say the word or think that we are working toward holiness because again, that goal seems too far off or unattainable. It’s like saying I’m going to be part of the Olympic team and I’ve never even trained—which brings us to the fact that if we want to be holy, one of the things we must do is train. And the way we can train depends on our situation in life.
Holiness in Your Unique Life SituationThe reason I’m qualifying it by saying your situation in life is because we all have responsibilities. Maybe you are a mom of young children, a student with lessons and responsibilities, or maybe you are middle-aged and a caregiver to elderly parents. We all have situations in our lives that may prevent us from striving for holiness in the way of, let’s say, someone who’s in seminary or someone who’s in religious life.
But that doesn’t give us a pass on doing some basic things. As I shared from the book The Forgotten Way by Matthew Kelly, one of the ways to strive for holiness is to watch what we say. As he puts it, “You can become a saint just by governing your speech.”
You may be thinking, but that’s just too basic.But is it really? Think of the number of times that we have spoken and hurt someone or have spoken and not thought our words through. Very rarely do people apologize when they should, or maybe they over-apologize, as in the case of my sweet granddaughter Samantha. She often apologizes even when it’s not her fault. But holiness is possible, and that is a purpose that we should strive for. We can start today—it isn’t too late, even if you are overwhelmed, busy, have a huge workload, or have multiple deadlines to meet. You can start being holy just by saying, “Lord, I want to be holy,” and I want help in guarding what I say.”
I’m guilty of talking without thinking and hurting those I love the most. I used to chalk it up to transparency, that there was no need to wonder what I was thinking because I would tell you. Honesty is a virtue, but talking before thinking of the results of those words is not charitable. Something I wish I had learned earlier in life.
Finding Purpose Through HolinessSo many people have lost their life’s purpose.
Young people, especially, don’t seem to have life goals. I saw a recent post by a dad talking to his children about higher education, and they were wondering which jobs they could get that wouldn’t be replaced by AI in the future.
Without purpose, goals, or hope, we find people living in despair, discouragement, and disappointment. But what if our goal is to strive for heaven, to strive for the love of God, to strive to be a child of God? Does this change our despair? Yes! Realizing that there is more than what we can physically see and touch, and the goal is greater, is a blessing and leads to true freedom.
The first step would be asking the Lord, “Lord, what do you want from me?” What do you want from me today, right now? It doesn’t have to be a huge declaration. It can just be an acceptance of His will in our life for that day.
Sometimes our lives are not our own. We’re not in control, even when we think we have everything organized, scheduled, and perfectly mapped out. It doesn’t work that way—it doesn’t even work out at times when we’re trying to do good for the sake of another. It doesn’t always work out, but each day we get to see the glory and hand of God if we can just thank Him. If we can thank Him in the midst of the adversities, if we can thank Him even when we break a glass jar five minutes before we have to leave the house, or we’re going to be late to an appointment that is 30 minutes away, we can be thankful that no tile was chipped and the jar was not valuable.
Overcoming Distractions and Embracing DisciplineSometimes these little issues take us away from our purpose, and our purpose is to serve God and to bless others by works of charity, even when we pat ourselves on the back, and then something like this happens to take away our peace.
None of us is perfect, and that’s not what holiness means. It doesn’t mean achieving perfection. I think that holiness means striving to be the best that we can be, given our life situations. Again, when I share things like life situations, it’s because I don’t want to put a burden on people. I know that as a young mom, I would hear people share testimonies and think, “Gosh, I want to go to that. I want to share the glory of God with other people,” but I couldn’t. It was not my time; it wasn’t my station in life. Yet I could work with what God gave me: raising my children, homeschooling, being there for my husband, my family, and my friends.
Striving for holiness means guarding our speech, but it also means being deliberate in our speech. You know, speech can either make people happy or miserable, and sometimes we lash out and say things we don’t need to say because we’re upset. Yelling makes us feel better because we’ve gotten it off our chest, but it doesn’t make those who are the recipients of our yelling feel any better. And that is the best time to say nothing—or at least pray before we do.
The Path to Holiness: Practice and Quiet TimeHoliness isn’t easy. Holiness doesn’t have a direct formula either. I’ve read uplifting articles that if you did X, Y, and Z, then the Lord would bless you—that if you wanted that house, you just needed to claim it, or that car. It’s like telling somebody that you have to go through all of these hoops to please God before you’re blessed. We don’t know the mind of God, but that is not the God I serve.
Striving to be holy is a goal that is attainable, but like anything we strive for, it takes practice. The idea of A Few Minutes with God, the title of this podcast, is a testament to the fact that spending time with God in quiet is a step toward holiness, peace, tranquility, and joy. The holiness comes from acknowledging that God is holy, and in the example of Jesus Christ, we have an example to follow, meditate on, and contemplate.
But we avoid the quiet. When things are quiet, what do you do? Do we reach for our phones, turn on the television, or computer? Again, a tool of the enemy to distract us.
Goals:* But quiet and sit with God, just for a little while at first. And when we are distracted, apologize to the Lord and move on. Guilt is not from God. * Guard our words. Think before we talk, or better yet, remain silent. * Add, “Be Holy!” to the top of our to-do list!
By striving to be holy, we focus on the discipline of controlling our speech.By controlling our speech, we also find we can control our tempers and our reactions to things that don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. In essence, we have greater control over ourselves and our actions. Discipline can be trained, and we see it in many athletes, but discipline is something that we need, especially if we are going to work towards striving for holiness.
Think about the fruit that comes from this discipline.When we exercise self-control over our words we can avoid gossip, lies, harshness, or unnecessary speech. Read James 3:2-12– my goodness, it is eye-opening! Let me just read you a portion, but please go back and study this verse: James 3: 8-10 (Read on air.) …but no human being can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God. 10 From the same mouth come blessing and cursing.
This is so true; from our mouths come beautiful and sometimes vile things. Let us repent and move on because we all want healthier relationships, inner peace, and godly character. Let us pray to the Lord that He blesses us with the ability to have self-control, gentleness, and kindness, all fruits of the Spirit, that we may praise God in all things, strive for holiness because it is possible, and live in joy. Amen!
Related Episodes from A Few Minutes with God PodcastFor more uplifting content on faith and Christian living, check out these related episodes on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life
- The Spiritual Grace From God
- Keeping Your Faith Alive
- The Gift of Humility
- Fruits of Faith
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Evil Tactic – Combatting Evil ~ Episode 225What is an evil tactic? It is something employed by the evil one to take souls to hell. Harsh? Maybe. But, this is something that few of us want to talk about or consider. In this podcast, Felice will explore the tactics used and how to prevent being led to the dark side.
Visit this month’s wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12
Few people realize the greatest tool of evil is to convince people that evil does not exist. Everything is fine, it’s good, there is nothing to worry about. Everyone gets a free pass to go to heaven. Don’t worry, proclaim God once, claim Him and go on and live your life in whatever way you see fit. I realize we all come from different faith walks. Some are non-denominational and others adhere to a specific denomination. Some teach it is faith alone and others that it is faith and works.
In the previous podcast, I cited James 2:14-26, Faith without works is dead. With this thought, we must look at the ways that evil sets to destroy not only others but specifically our lives.
Here is a short list of things that are considered evil tactics:1. Not believing evil or satan exists. John 8:44 (read) 2. Fearfulness (in a minute I’ll read from Matthew 10 which helps us to combat fear) 3. Deception and lies, Confusion, Twisting of words – reproductive freedom, no big deal, not for us to judge 4. Division – because when we are divided we are weak. John 17:20-24 (read) 5. Diversion – an overload of information, social media, anxiety, and distractions of everyday life Matt 10:26-32 (read) 6. Discouragement and depression – personal setbacks, always wanting more, if “this” happens, I’ll be happy. (humility)
There is so much packed into these verses, first, we have nothing to fear, the next is that we should not fear the body because what is most important is our soul, and the only person to fear is what can destroy us -that is giving into evil tactics and ultimately hell. Then there is the wonderful verse about the Father’s intimate knowledge about each one of us because he even knows the number of hair on our heads. We have value to God, my friends more than we know! We must also acknowledge God, we must not be afraid of our Christian faith or deny him unless we want to be denied before the Father in heaven. Powerful words!
- Humility – the key to discouragement and depression is humility. Realizing we can do nothing without God. This is not a way to push off blame or alleviate our guilt, it is a way however to realize that when we do things under our own steam we are setting up ourselves for failure. Have you ever wondered when your life falls apart, and you can’t seem to handle anymore that you are “doing” it yourself and without God? Sure, we are all gifted in some way, but those gifts should be attributed to the Almighty.
In our humility we ask the Lord for help, to come into our lives in a deeper way (I know – I must sound like I repeat myself over and over) but it is a truth that when we grow closer to God we find things that are so important in our life or that we think are important fall way. All the people who suffer loss realize in the end that these are things they can not take with them when they die. That is why we are taught to look to the end, to look at our lives and when we do, when we grow closer to God we can see the areas where we have sinned.
Evil tactics are lost on those who are grounded, who surround themselves with like-minded Christians, and who immerse themselves in all that is good and holy, beginning with your relationship with Christ and the Scriptures. This week make a list of the evil tactics aimed at you and work at ways (with God, Scripture, and prayer) that you can combat the evils.
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Be Not Afraid | Episode 9 – Some Women Podcast (Luke 8:1–3)“Be not afraid.”
In this powerful episode of the Some Women podcast, Angela, Jackie, Pat, and Sharla share how God has proven Himself faithful in the midst of life’s battles. Through personal testimony, prayer, and reflection on Scripture, they reveal how the Lord led them into deeper trust—and spoke personally to their hearts with the words “Be not afraid.”
In This Episode, You’ll Hear: How God meets us personally during seasons of fear and uncertainty * What it looks like to trust the Lord in spiritual warfare and daily struggles * How ordinary women grow extraordinary faith through surrender and prayer * Why the words “Be not afraid”* remain central to the Christian life
Scripture FocusThis episode is part of the Some Women podcast series, inspired by Luke 8:1–3, which highlights the women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples. Their example invites us to ask:
- Who were the women who followed and served Jesus?
- How are we called to follow and serve Him today?
- What does faithful discipleship look like for women in the modern world?
About the Some Women PodcastPresented by Magnificat®, Some Women features lively panel discussions (with occasional guest panelists) on topics relevant to Catholic women today, including:
- Growing in holiness
- Building authentic community
- Living a Holy Spirit–led life
- Spiritual warfare
- Developing a deeper prayer life
Each episode reflects on Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church, encouraging listeners to pray, learn, and experience what God can do when we let Him work in our lives.
About Magnificat® – A Ministry to Catholic WomenFounded in 1981, Magnificat® is an international Catholic nonprofit with over 70 chapters worldwide. The ministry exists to evangelize and encourage women to grow in holiness by opening more fully to the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Inspired by Mary’s words in Luke 1:46—“My soul magnifies the Lord”—Magnificat® gatherings include:
- Praise and worship
- Testimonies of God’s transforming grace
- Faith-sharing in a relaxed, welcoming community
Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, as a model for all Christians, especially women.
Learn more at: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post Magnificat Presents® Some Women®: Be Not Afraid appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
For Ultimate Christian Podcast Network
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 13, Kelly Wahlquist- From Heart to Heart: Bringing Joy with the New EvangelizationMagnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Kelly Wahlquist shares her faith-filled journey to becoming a disciple of Christ. Today, through founding the national women’s ministry WINE: Women in the New Evangelization, she shares the faith, empowering women to enjoy a closer relationship with the Lord and to use their unique gifts to bring joy, connection, and community, healing the body of Christ.
Kelly is also Director of the Archbishop Flynn Catechetical Institute in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Kelly is the author of innovative collaborative Bible studies and travels the country speaking at Catholic conferences, retreats and leads women’s pilgrimages through Italy. She and her husband, Andy, reside with their three children in Minnesota.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Women of the New Evangelization website: https://catholicvineyard.com
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
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About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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Memorize ScriptureReplay sponsored by CTCMath.com
When was the last time you attempted to memorize scripture? This is worthwhile and beneficial to our spiritual growth. By memorizing the verses we can ingrain them into our hearts and call them to mind in times when we struggle. Here are some tips for memorizing with ease.
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When the children were younger I would assign them scriptures to memorize. Most of the time they were a verse or two, often nothing longer. I had friends whose children could quote sections of the Bible and I was amazed! And while memorization is great for children, it is important that we as adults also spend time on memorization. In fact, it can really help us as we get older.
I have a list that I call life verses, such as Joshua 24:15 – but the entire verse is not what I quote. Here is the entire verse:
But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”When I think of the verse, it is this part… As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.Another is John 1:1-5 –What I will quote having memorized it is this part, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made.”I love that verse because it is one of those mind-blowing verses – in those words I can see the Almighty God, Father, and Son. The Word is Jesus, God is God the Father and nothing is done without the Spirit. For some reason, that verse makes me very happy!It is almost like I have a tiny glimpse of the creation of the world.Then there is what we call the Magnificat – Luke146-55 when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth and the baby in Elizabeth’s womb lept for joy. Here we read Mary’s answer to Elizabeth: And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, …Another version says, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
and another the King James – My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
I love all of those versions, but my favorite is My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…
You can look up various scripture verses on a website such as BibleGateway.com or your own Bible translation.
I’m making a point to memorize some new verses, do you want to join me in the challenge? Let’s get started with some simple techniques for memorization.
Memorize Scripture The Easy Way1. Scriptures that are important to you. The first step is to look at the Bible and find the verses that are important to you. You can begin by listing some of your favorites, even if you have already memorized these verses. I shared some with you. 2. Write them down. Reinforces the words. Using seeing, hearing, and writing helps us in remembering. While typing is tactile it really is beneficial to write the scriptures out and say them out loud. Seeing them in print helps as well. 3. Read them often. Put the scriptures you are using in one spot. Several of my children used flashcards to help them when studying for a test. You can do this with the scripture verses. Put the words on the lined side of the card, and the verse number on the back. By looking at the verse such as John 1:1 – you should be able to recite, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” 4. Create a sign or banner. This is one of my favorite things and I love receiving gifts that are plaques with Scripture verses on them, in fact, I have many throughout my home. I also hang them from the bedroom doors, I use those sticky plastic hook things. Okay, so sometimes it does bang on the door when you open or close it, but it is so worth it to see those verses and it reminds me to live them! 5. Test yourself. How are you doing? You can set simple goals like one new verse a week. Just think in a year you can memorize 52 new verses! Wouldn’t that be great?
Will you join me? That is this week’s challenge, one verse! Be blessed and in the Name of Jesus I ask for an infilling of the Holy Spirit to be upon your family today and always. Amen.
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Listening to that still, small voice is the goal of all who are discerning God’s will! In this episode, we explore how we can shift our focus once we have practiced the habit of listening.
Discerning God’s Will: Aligning Your Path with His Plan ~ Episode 367Listening to the Lord, following His will, and practicing holding our tongue is not easy. As I shared in the previous episode, as a family, we are reading the book “The Forgotten Way. The Saint James Master Plan.” By Matthew Kelly – This little book is powerful. What it lacks in words it makes up for in punch.
Holding our tongue, thinking before we talk, and spending time in silence helps us to cultivate the habit of listening to that still, small voice. The natural next step is to understand and interpret what He is revealing to us.
There is no formula – you do x + y, and you get Z. No, that is not how it works. But listening takes practice, and it is difficult to listen if we are talking.
When was the last time you were seeking a clear direction in your life? Making decisions—whether it’s a career change, family matters, or spiritual growth is possible without Go,d but how much better is it if we pray for the Lord’s help?
In a world filled with distractions and conflicting voices, discerning God’s will isn’t just a skill; it’s a lifeline to living a purposeful, God-centered life.
The Art of Discernment in FaithDiscernment is more than just making good choices; it’s a spiritual practice rooted in prayer, reflection, and obedience. It involves testing the spirits to ensure our decisions align with God’s holy truth rather than our own desires or worldly influences.
In today’s fast-paced society, where self-help gurus and social media influencers bombard us with advice, true discernment calls us back to the foundational principles of our faith. We’ll draw inspiration from biblical figures like the Apostle Paul, whose vision of the Macedonian call in Acts 16 redirected his missionary journey entirely.
This wasn’t a random event but a clear prompting from the Holy Spirit, showing us that God often speaks through circumstances, inner peace, and confirmation from Scripture and community. For Catholics, the Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes forming our moral compass through regular examination and sacraments like Reconciliation.
By prioritizing these elements, we can avoid the pitfalls of confusion and step into the clarity that comes from a heart attuned to God. Discernment isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress in holiness, trusting that God reveals His will progressively as we seek Him diligently.
Key Scripture PassagesRomans 12:2“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God.”
This powerful verse from St. Paul urges us to reject the patterns of secular culture that prioritize materialism, individualism, and instant gratification. Instead, it calls for a radical transformation through the renewal of our minds—achieved via daily immersion in God’s Word, prayer, and the Eucharist.
After reflecting on this, consider how worldly influences might be clouding your judgment. For instance, in a culture obsessed with success measured by wealth or status, discerning God’s will might mean choosing a vocation that serves others, like teaching or missionary work, even if it’s not lucrative.
Practically, start by cutting back on your media intake: replace scrolling through divisive news feeds… Ultimately, this transformation equips us to test and approve God’s perfect will, leading to a life of fulfillment and eternal reward.
Proverbs 3:5-6“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
In an age where self-reliance is idolized—think of the “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality—this proverb reminds us that true straight paths come from acknowledging God in every aspect of life, from mundane routines to major crossroads.
After pondering this, reflect on times when leaning on your understanding led to detours. Use apps with daily Scripture I shared about the Bible in a Year podcast by Ascension Press. It’s free on YouTube. (More on air.)
1 John 4:11 John 4:1: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.”
St. John warns against deception in a world rife with false prophets and misleading ideologies.
This is especially relevant today, with cultural shifts promoting relativism and ideologies contrary to Christian teachings, such as those undermining the sanctity of life or traditional marriage. Testing spirits involves comparing promptings against Scripture, Church tradition, and moral absolutes.
After this reference, delve into how to practically test: use the “fruit inspection” from Galatians 5—does the spirit produce love, joy, peace? Avoid sources that twist the truth, such as progressive theologies that dilute biblical commands.
Instead, draw on solid resources such as the Bible! In personal life, test career callings: if a job requires compromising ethics, it’s not from God.
As a believer, we must speak out against anti-family policies. Surround yourself with like-minded Christians. This safeguards against spiritual pitfalls, leading to authentic freedom in Christ.
Tips for Discerning DailyTo make discernment a daily habit, begin with structured prayer times, perhaps using a prayer journal to record areas of struggle or praise reports. I love keeping a praise journal to see all that God has provided in our families.
If you can add fasting to your life, not just from food but from noise—turn off the music or news during commutes to listen inwardly. Surround yourself with a faithful community, like Bible study groups, for objective feedback. Remember, discernment thrives in frequent attendance at church. I love that my church encourages silence. When entering, I can kneel and pray quietly. It is a wonderful way to begin to worship God.
If facing major decisions, consider a retreat, even for a few hours! Seek spiritual guidance from your pastor. Patience is key—God’s timing often differs from ours, building trust. Incorporate nature walks and reflect on creation as a means of discernment, as Psalm 19 suggests. Finally, celebrate small discernments to encourage perseverance.
Related Podcast EpisodesEnhance your spiritual discernment with these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Faith in Action – Steps to boldly live your faith.
- Overcoming Hopelessness – Embracing joy in trials.
- Praying for a Friend – Interceding for others.
- Let Your Yes Be Yes – Commitment and truthfulness.
- Asking God – Persistent prayer for wisdom.
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Magnificat Presents Some Women: Personal Prayer LifeIn this episode, Angela, Donna, Jackie, and Pat talk about their prayer lives. They describe what their prayer was like when they first came back to the Lord, how it has changed over the years, and how it’s like for them now.
Some Women PodcastWho were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today.
Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic WomenFounded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry.
Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post Magnificat Presents Some Women: Personal Prayer Life appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Listening to the Lord: Hearing God’s Voice in Daily Life ~ Episode 366Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast, hosted by Felice Gerwitz. In this episode, we dive into the foundational aspect of our Christian walk: learning to listen to the Lord. As believers, tuning our hearts to God’s gentle whispers amid the noise of the world is essential for spiritual growth.
This four-part series explores listening to Him, following His will, and exercising caution in our speech. Join us as we seek timeless wisdom from Scripture to inspire your faith journey.
Why Listening to the Lord MattersIn a fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the still, small voice of God. This episode focuses on practical ways to cultivate a listening heart, drawing from biblical examples like Samuel’s call in the night. By prioritizing quiet time in prayer and meditation, we open ourselves to divine guidance that aligns our lives with His purpose.
Book referenced: The Forgotten Way*
Scripture Verses for Reflection* 1 Kings 19:11-12: (Read on air.) This reminds us that God often speaks in whispers, urging us to be attentive. * Psalm 46:10: “(Read on air.) A call to silence our minds and listen for His presence. * John 10:27: “(Read on air.) Jesus assures us that as His followers, we can recognize His voice.
Practical Steps to Listen BetterStart your day with intentional silence, perhaps by reading the passage slowly and stopping to contemplate the words, or by journaling. In this way, you can write down your prayer requests and keep track of those that have been answered and those you need to continue praying for. Avoid distractions like social media during devotion time, and seek confirmation through godly counsel. Remember, listening is an active pursuit of intimacy with the Lord.
Related Podcast EpisodesFor more insights on deepening your relationship with God, check out these episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Let Your Yes Be Yes – Exploring integrity in our commitments to God.
- Asking God – How to approach the Lord in prayer with boldness.
- Faith in Action – Living out your beliefs courageously.
- Overcoming Hopelessness – Finding joy through God’s promises.
- Praying for a Friend – The power of intercession in building community.
*affiliate link. Please see terms and conditions.
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Testimony of Claire GallagherClaire Gallagher is a consecrated virgin from the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Claire was born and raised in the New Orleans area in a devout Catholic family. She had many good role models, her own parents as well as, aunts and uncles. Like many little girls she had dreams of one day getting married, having a large family, and living in a home with a white picket fence. While attending college, she thought she found the perfect man, but she knew deep down it was not right.
Claire explains how her life took many unexpected turns and she received important life lessons that allowed her to listen more closely to God’s plan for her. She found that God uses everything, he led her through a process of ‘letting go’ enabling her to be open to a deeper relationship with him and the vocation to the consecrated life.
Her love for the youth and young adult ministry, teaching, and retreat ministry led to her involvement and years of experience nurturing the spiritual formation of others. She currently manages a project through the Loyola Institute for Ministry that provides spiritual enrichment for religious sisters and is the co-host of the podcast “Flourishing Sisterhood,” which highlights the unique stories of religious sisters in the south.
This testimony was given to the Marrero, Louisiana Chapter in August 2025. The recording is 44 minutes, 26seconds in length.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat StoreDid you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Finding God in the Every Day with Felice GerwitzDo you have a daily schedule? It’s time to add finding God to your list. The Lord’s voice is something we seek, whether in quiet time or in prayer. What should we do? What does God want us to do? What is God’s will for us, today, tomorrow or next year? How do we find God? In this episode, Felice Gerwitz discusses how we should seek God every day.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math. Show Notes:
Whether it is finding God in the rainbow, or the beautiful sunset – to finding God in the person sitting next to you in church, your life will become joyful if you look. In addition add journaling time to your day. When you journal you can see, more clearly the Lord’s work in your life. Study the following scriptures in finding God in the every day – 1 Kings 11-12 and Isaiah 41:10
Share this podcast with your friends! Use the social media buttons above or email the link to a friend. Please give our podcast a rating on iTunes or Google play or any podcast app. We appreciate you, our listeners!
Thanks to our sponsor – Media Angels, Inc.
Check out the book – A Few Minutes With God
Show Notes: Finding God Every Day
- Seeking God – praying
- Look for blessings
- God incidence or coincidence
- Seeing God in the people around you
- Watching and listening
- Showing by example
- Ending your day with thanks
1 Kings 11-12
The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
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Scripture as a Pathway to HolinessIn this episode, Angela, Jackie, Mary, and Pat share how scripture has formed them and contributed to their personal growth in holiness. Each describes instances of their personal diving into the scriptures and some of their most meaningful scripture passages.
SOME WOMENWho were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today.
Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit.“My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry.
Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
Watch on YouTubeThe post Magnificat Presents Some Women: Scripture as a Pathway to Holiness appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Presentation in the Temple Painting by Philippe de Champaigne, 1648
The Feast of the PresentationYou can be filled with joy and led by the Spirit! Join the podcast today as we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation with Anna and Simeon. These two seniors, guided by the Holy Spirit and filled with joy when they recognized the Savior, will show us how.
Jesus Came to Fulfill All the Law Today, we will discuss these points: (1) Forty days after Jesus’ birth, Joseph and Mary follow the Mosaic Law for the presentation of Jesus in the temple and Mary’s purification; (2) the meaning of the presentation and redemption; (3) the humble Blessed Mother offered “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons,” as prescribed in Leviticus 12:8; (4) although their lives differed, hope-filled seniors Simeon and Anna saw the Lord and had much in common; (5) Simeon prayed the “Nunc Dimittis,” now a canticle in the Liturgy of the Hours; and (6) you too can be led by the Spirit and filled with joy and peace.
LinksThe episode is based on a chapter from my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
For bookmarks or prayer points from The Joy of Advent Podcast series, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
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Missionaries at Home: Following God’s Call in Your Daily Life ~ Episode 365sponsored by CTCMath.com
Are you wondering, “What is a missionary?” or “Can I become a missionary at home?” In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, we explore how every Christian can embrace God’s calling within their vocation—whether as a parent, spouse, professional, or friend. Discover practical ways to live out your faith by serving others selflessly, right where you are. We’ll blend uplifting insights with Scripture to inspire you on this journey of faith and service.
Understanding the Heart of a MissionaryMissionaries are individuals who dedicate their lives to spreading the Gospel and serving others out of love for Christ. But you don’t need to travel to distant lands to be one. As our pastor, Fr. Shawn, profoundly shared in a recent sermon, true giving isn’t about what we receive in return—it’s a selfless act empowered by God’s grace. This idea resonated deeply with me, prompting prayer and reflection on how it applies to everyday life.
Consider the missionaries who give not just their time but often their very lives for the sake of others. They do so because of a divine calling and the grace God provides. As Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” We might view such commitment as insurmountable because we haven’t yet received that specific grace. Yet, when God calls, He equips.
I’ve met missionaries who recount blessings amid hardships. One friend, invited by a priest to serve in a poor community alongside her doctor husband, faced unexpected challenges. Meals were simple rice and beans—not due to lack of funds, but to share in the locals’ daily reality. They slept on thin mats under mosquito nets, enduring heat and rain. Though they cut their ten-day stay short to a week due to illness, possibly from food or water, she described it as the hardest yet most rewarding experience. It began with an invitation rather than a direct calling, but it led to ongoing support for that community.
Mother Teresa: A Model of Perseverance Through Spiritual DrynessMother Teresa exemplifies missionary life, yet her story reveals profound inner struggles. Outwardly, we saw a saint tirelessly serving the poorest in Calcutta, founding the Missionaries of Charity, and embodying Christ’s love. However, her private writings, revealed after her death, spoke of a deep “dryness of soul”—periods of spiritual desolation where she felt abandoned by God, devoid of the consolations she once experienced.
Despite this, Mother Teresa persisted, viewing her suffering as a way to unite with Christ’s passion. In her letters, she described this darkness as lasting decades, yet she continued her work, saying it was for Jesus alone. As shared in Catholic sources like LifeSiteNews, this struggle didn’t diminish her grace; it highlighted her faithfulness. Drawing from Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Her example teaches us that God’s calling isn’t always accompanied by feelings of joy—sometimes it’s a deliberate choice to obey, trusting in His sustaining power.
Does this mean Mother Teresa lacked God’s grace? Absolutely not. It shows that even saints face trials, but grace enables endurance. As in Romans 5:3-5, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Her life inspires us to press on, even when spiritual dryness clouds our path.
The Essence of Missionary Giving: Selfless Service Without ExpectationBeing a missionary means giving of ourselves without seeking rewards. Consolations—those warm feelings of joy during prayer, service, or worship—are graces from God, not signs of our holiness. As I once read in spiritual writings, these boosts come when we’re struggling in faith or need encouragement. We’re all works in progress, as Philippians 1:6 assures: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Mother Teresa began with those initial warm feelings but continued through dryness, driven by her heart’s calling. This reminds us that missionary work is often a decision, not just an emotion. When we follow God’s lead, blessings may follow, but they’re not the goal.
How to Become a Missionary at Home: Practical StepsYou can live as a missionary right in your own surroundings. Here’s how to start:
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Begin with Prayer and Time with GodIt all starts in quiet communion with the Lord. Dedicate daily time to prayer, seeking His guidance. As James 1:5 encourages, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Through prayer, discern your unique calling.
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Start in Your Own HomeMissionary work begins with those closest to you—your family. Serve your spouse, children, or roommates with love and patience. Ephesians 5:21 urges, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Small acts like listening attentively or helping with chores become missionary opportunities.
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Ask the Lord to Lead You to Those in NeedInvite God to bring people across your path. Be open to unexpected encounters. Matthew 25:40 reminds us, “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”
My husband and I became missionaries to engaged couples through an opportunity that found us. Initially hesitant, I embraced it, and for four years, we’ve mentored couples preparing for Catholic marriage. We emphasize the sanctity of matrimony, openness to life, and its permanence—contrasting worldly views of temporary commitments or “trial runs.” Marriage, like surrendering to Christ, is a lifelong gift to God and each other. This hasn’t been easy, but it’s rewarding, drawing us closer as a couple. Now, I’m eager to train other mentors to continue this legacy.
Opportunities to Serve: Especially During the HolidaysPray and ask God how you can share your gifts as a missionary at home. Others might help identify your talents—perhaps teaching, hospitality, or encouragement. During holidays, abundant chances arise: charitable donations, visiting the elderly, or volunteering with organizations. As Galatians 6:9 exhorts, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Giving of yourself can be tough, but wholeheartedly done, it contributes to a greater good. Like my husband and me, even small efforts make a difference.
I pray you find joy and hope in serving others—it’s a calling for all of us! As we close, remember Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
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Related Episodes on the Ultimate Christian Podcast NetworkFor more uplifting discussions on living out your faith, check out these episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast:
- Vocation and Purpose – Explores Christian views on vocation and purpose, balancing family, work, and faith, with practical tips like daily prayer and using talents to serve others.
- Your God Given Purpose – Guides on discovering God-given purpose in chaos through listening to God, embracing gifts, and trusting His plan with daily prayer.
- Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – Challenges listeners to share faith through actions, providing five steps such as praying with expectation, embracing small acts, sharing stories, engaging community, and living with purpose.
- Praying For A Friend – Explores the blessing of praying for friends in need, offering practical steps like listening with love, praying with Scripture, being consistent, trusting God’s plan, and following up, emphasizing prayer as a way to serve and show care.
- Blessings In Our Life – Reflects on spiritual blessings as gifts from God, using Psalm 23, and urges using talents for the Kingdom, inspired by Mother Teresa’s call to love family as a path to world peace.
The post Missionaries At Home appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
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Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 12, Dr. Carol Razza – Recognizing Life More AbundantMagnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Dr. Carol Razza explores how to recognize the abundant life Jesus offers (John 10:10). She also shares insights on our true identity in God’s eyes, the promises He makes to His children, and how to dispel the enemy’s lies.
Dr. Carol Razza serves on the Advisory Team for the International Magnificat. Licensed by the state of Florida in Mental Health Counseling, Dr. Razza has worked in private practice as a psychotherapist for over 25 years. Formerly a faculty member and formation advisor at St. Vincent de Paul Seminary, Dr. Razza has written two books: Sonblock, How Christians Unknowingly Shield Themselves from Grace, and Parent me…Please. Dr. Rassa also presents at seminars, conferences, workshops, and retreats both nationally and internationally. Her greatest blessing includes her marriage of over 50 years to her husband, Paul, and their wonderful sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Contact Dr. Carol Razza at drcarolraz@yahoo.com.
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
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LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
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About Magnificat® MinistryFounded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
Watch this on YouTube:
The post Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 12, Dr. Carol Razza – Recognizing Life More Abundant appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Joy of the Lord Episode 196The joy of the Lord is… can you fill in the blanks here? The joy of the Lord is so many different things to different people but in this podcast, we will explore how God’s joy can bring us to a greater and deeper commitment with Him!
Please visit my website for books and classes at Media Angels.com
Check out these our podcasts on the topic of Joy: Joy in Living God’s Will and Daily Joy here.
What did you answer when I asked you what you would say when asked, “The joy of the Lord is…”
I can give you so many such as the Joy of the Lord is my strength, Nehemiah 8:10
The joy of the Lord is my rock, He is my Savior and my Lord. How can I thank the Lord who created the heavens and the earth and who knows every hair on my head and every need I have beforehand? The only way I know how is by giving him all the praise. And, when we praise God, what naturally follows is a thankful heart.The world is trying to weigh us down and watching the news is enough to depress even the most joyful. There is nothing that surprises the Lord and there is nothing, no event that He does not already know the outcome. Throughout the history of mankind, we see the same mistakes made over and over again, beginning with the fall of the garden of Eden. Things have not changed significantly in the sense of people continuing to sin!We read in Psalm 92:4Each day we have a challenge, and that challenge is to keep the joy of God in our hearts. Ask ourselves the following questions:1. What can you offer the Lord today?2. What can you thank the Lord for today?3. How can you show the joy of the Lord to others?Think about these questions and what is key is that whenever we are in the mindset of trying to please the Lord we are receiving blessings. We can not outgive the Lord. Try it. The Lord will not be outdone and we can see that as evidence in our lives. The disciples followed Jesus not because it was easy, but because there was no other way to light, truth, and love. Jesus was compelling, He drew them in with His unconditional love and forgiveness. They were transformed from the ordinary to the extraordinary.How can we be transformed each day in our ordinary lives? Think about this? It is the theme of this podcast and that is to have the joy of the Lord in our hearts. We can study the Word of God in the scriptures, memorize scripture verses to help us when we are down, turn to God in prayer whenever we have a need or just because we want to praise and thank Him. We can be transformed by the everlasting love of God and the joy that thought brings to our hearts.Have you gotten off course? We all go off course at some time in our lives. We feel that the Lord is too busy for our needs so we will go it alone. This is not the way to live life and when that burden seems to heavy to carry we will see the evidence in the fruit and that is the wrong path or the path of least resistance. Friends this is not the path we want to be on, we want to be on that narrow path that leads to God and that joy we talk about, the joy of the Lord.Is there something that is weighing you down? If so, release it and give it to God. That is why over the course of the years I’ve asked you to try a journal, first a praise and thanksgiving journal because that is unbelievably helpful. The second is a prayer journal so that you can go back at some point and see all of the prayers that have been answered. It is truly a faith booster. I have one that I started in 2008 and that thing has pages that are bent and highlighted words and sticky notes. I keep it around to remind myself that while not all prayers were answered, the ones that were important were answered better than I can possibly imagine.What is the end of this story? We need to keep the focus of Christ in our minds daily, to focus on the blessing we have in our lives, those simple things, the comforts of a home of a family of the blue sky and green grass or even a snowy vista…whatever that is that God brings to us in nature. Nothing can hold back an attitude of gratitude if we will it to be.The joy of the Lord is my strength and I pray that for you today, and my challenge to you is to increase that joy in your heart with song and prayer, daily! May God be blessed! Amen, and amen.The post The Joy of the Lord (New Year Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
In this episode, Angela, Jackie, and Pat share testimonies concerning their personal prayer lives and how they have developed over years and the importance of the sacraments in our growth in holiness.Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today?
In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today. Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting.
The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post Magnificat Presents Some Women – Holiness through Prayer and Sacrament appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Adoration of the Shepherds, painting by Domenico Zampieri, 1610
Jesus Christ is BornToday, we return to the book of Luke. There, we join Blessed Mary and Joseph on their 80-mile trek to Bethlehem. When they arrive, they find it crowded with people who, like them, had come at the command of Caesar Augustus. We will encounter the Angels and Shepherds who have much to share. Connecting your heart with the Angel’s Gloria and the Shepherd’s praises will help you find more JOY and peace.
No Home for the Creator of CreationJoin us today as we discuss these points: (1) Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the City of David, prophesied over 700 years earlier by the Prophet Micah (Micah 5:1-3). (2) Emperor Caesar Augustus issued a decree requiring a public enrollment of his subjects. (3) Joseph, a descendant of King David, had to travel to Bethlehem because he was of David’s lineage. Mary also went along—she might have been required to register, or Joseph wanted her with him. (4) Finding no room in an inn, Jesus, God Incarnate and the Savior of the World, was born and wrapped tightly in cloth by His Mother Mary, then laid in a manger where animals eat. (5) We join the Angel’s “Gloria” (Luke 2:14-20), named because the first word in St. Jerome’s Latin translation is “Gloria,” and then visit the Baby in the manger with the shepherds. (6) This is the night to create a “manger” for Jesus in your heart by inviting Him to be your Savior and Lord now and forever.
Bishop Fulton J. Sheen notes: Joseph “searched in vain for a place where He, to Whom heaven and earth belonged, might be born. Could the Creator not find a home in creation? … A stable would be the last place in the world where one would have looked for Him. Divinity is always where one least expects to find it”(Life of Christ, 1958, p. 13-24).
LinksThe episode is based on a chapter from my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
For bookmarks or prayer points from The Joy of Advent Podcast series, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post The Joy of Advent #6 ~ Jesus Christ is Born: Join the Angels & Shepherds in Praise appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Dream of St. Joseph, Painting by Anton Raphael Mengs, 1773
Joseph’s Dream from God to Take Mary as His WifeToday, we turn to Matthew’s Gospel and hear about Joseph’s dream to take Mary as his wife, and how he joyfully embraced God’s plan. Mary and Joseph often changed their plans as they listened to God. They serve as an example to us of how to trust in God’s plan rather than our own. Join the podcast today as we learn about an angel sent to Joseph in a dream and discover how God can help us most when we exchange our plans for His!
The Family Record & Embracing God’s PlansToday, we will discuss these points: (1) the genealogical record or family tree, of Jesus through Joseph, (2) how Jewish lineages around the time of Christ often did not include women’s names, but Christ’s ancestry in Matthew mentions five women, (3) Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba were four women in Christ’s lineage who turned from sin or idolatry to God, (4) Joseph’s dream involving communication from an angel and his response to embrace God’s plans, and (5) how we can trust in God’s plan.
LinksThe episode is based on a chapter from my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
For bookmarks or prayer points from The Joy of Advent Podcast series, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post The Joy of Advent #5 ~ Joseph Takes Mary as His Wife & Joyfully Embraces God’s Plans appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Anticipating Christ’s Birth: Meditations on the Nativity ~ Episode 364Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast, hosted by Felice Gerwitz. This podcast is dedicated to giving you encouragement and is open to anyone seeking spiritually enriching content. Today, as we approach the Advent season, we’re diving into timely topics that prepare our hearts for Christmas. We’ll explore meditations on the Nativity of our Lord and Savior, blending scripture verses to inspire and uplift. Join me as we reflect on the miracle of Christ’s birth and draw closer to God through prayerful contemplation.
Preparing Our Hearts for the Miracle of Christ’s BirthThe Christmas season is often filled with lights, gifts, and festivities, but amidst the joy, meditations on the Nativity should take center stage. It’s easy for the profound mystery of Jesus’ birth to fade into the background amid holiday preparations. Yet, this is precisely the time to pause and ready our hearts for the Incarnation—the moment God became man to save us.
Imagine the anticipation building in your soul as Advent unfolds. This period invites us to reflect deeply, much like Mary and Joseph did in the days leading to Bethlehem. By focusing on the Nativity, we honor the humility and love of God, who chose to enter the world in vulnerability. As we meditate, let’s ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the wonder of this event, transforming our celebrations into true worship.
Scripture reminds us of this call to preparation in Luke 1:46-48, the Magnificat: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.” These words from Mary echo the joy and reverence we should carry into Christmas, magnifying God’s greatness in our lives.
The Struggle of Mary and Joseph: A Journey of FaithPicture the young couple, Mary and Joseph, embarking on a grueling journey to Bethlehem. They faced not just physical hardships—long travels on foot, uncertainty about lodging—but the immense spiritual weight of their mission. Entrusted with the Savior of the World, they navigated Roman census demands, societal scrutiny, and personal fears. Can you fathom the pressure? Mary, pregnant with the Son of God, and Joseph, her protector, relied solely on divine providence.
Their story teaches us about trust amid trials. In the midst of difficulty and stress, they exemplified obedience to God’s will. We often wonder what conversations they shared along the way or how they prayed for strength. Perhaps Joseph recounted dreams from angels, reassuring Mary of God’s plan. This reflection invites us to consider our own struggles: How do we respond when life feels overwhelming? Like Mary and Joseph, we can turn to prayer, finding peace in God’s promises.
As we ponder their journey, it’s uplifting to remember that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Their faithfulness paved the way for salvation, reminding us that our daily challenges can become opportunities for grace. Let this inspire you during Advent—embrace your own “Bethlehem moments” with hope.
Mary: TheotokosCentral to our meditations is Mary’s role, profoundly honored in Church tradition. In 431 AD, at the Council of Ephesus, the Church formally declared Mary as Theotokos, or Mother of God, to combat the Nestorian heresy, which separated Christ’s divine and human natures. This declaration affirmed that Mary bore the whole person of Jesus—fully God and fully man—ensuring the unity of His incarnation. According to the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), this teaching underscores Mary’s unique vocation and protects the truth of Christ’s divinity.
This title isn’t just theological; it’s a source of comfort. Mary, as Mother of God, intercedes for us–think of asking a friend to intercede for you. Yes, you can go right to Christ, but Mary always points to her son, and she is drawing us closer to her Son. Reflecting on this during the Nativity helps us appreciate her “yes” to God, which changed history. Generations indeed call her blessed, as foretold in the Magnificat, inviting us to seek her guidance in our spiritual lives.
Reflections on the Humility of the NativityOften, when I meditate on the Nativity, a wave of sadness comes over me—not despair, but an awareness of the humility involved. Mary and Joseph, feeling helpless, brought the Savior into a stable or cave, far from the warmth of a home. No royal palace, no fanfare; just straw, animals, and the chill of night. This scene horrifies in its simplicity, yet it radiates divine beauty.
Why a manger? It signifies God’s humbleness as an example to us. Jesus, the King of Kings, chose poverty to show that true power lies in love and sacrifice. Through God’s grace alone, this lowly birth reveals His accessibility—He meets us in our brokenness. As Philippians 2:7-8 tells us, “[He] emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
This humility uplifts us, reminding us that no circumstance is too humble for God’s presence. In our own lives, when we feel inadequate or overlooked, the Nativity assures us: God dwells among us, transforming the ordinary into sacred.
Diving into the Wonder: John 1:14 and Short MeditationsTo connect deeply with the Incarnation, let’s turn to John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This verse captures the miracle—God pitching His tent in humanity, revealing His glory through Jesus.
Here are short meditations to enrich your Advent devotions, perfect for Christmas Eve reflections or daily prayer:
- Meditation on the Journey: Close your eyes and walk with Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Feel the dust of the road, the weight of expectation. Pray: “Lord, guide my steps in faith, just as You led them.”
- Meditation on the Birth: Envision the stable’s dim light, Mary’s labor, Joseph’s vigilance. Hear the first cry of Jesus. Reflect: How does this vulnerability mirror God’s love for you? Scripture tie-in: Isaiah 9:6, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.”
- Meditation on the Shepherds: The lowly shepherds were first to hear the angels’ announcement. Consider: God invites the humble first. Ask: “Am I open to His call in unexpected ways?” Luke 2:10-11: “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”
- Meditation on the Magi: Wise men from afar sought the King with gifts. Ponder: What gifts do I bring to Jesus—my time, talents, heart? Matthew 2:11: “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.”
- Meditation on Mary’s Pondering: Luke 2:19 says, “But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” Take time to ponder your own encounters with God. Journal: What miracles has He wrought in your life?
These meditations are designed for “Nativity story reflections” or “Catholic devotions for Christmas Eve,” making them searchable and spiritually enriching. Incorporate them into family prayer times or quiet moments, allowing the Holy Spirit to deepen your connection to the Incarnation.
Uplifting Conclusion: Embracing the Nativity’s JoyAs we wrap up this episode, remember: The Nativity isn’t just a historical event; it’s an ongoing invitation to encounter Christ. Despite the sadness in its humility, it should fill us with joy—salvation has come! Let this Advent be a time of renewal, where meditations lead to action: Share the love of Jesus with others, practice humility, and rejoice in God’s grace.
May the peace of the Christ Child fill your hearts today and always
Related Podcast EpisodesFor more uplifting content, check out these episodes from the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network under the “A Few Minutes with God” category:
- Celebrate Christmas and Advent – Episode 280 – Explore ways to spiritually prepare your family for Christmas.
- Mary Mother of Jesus (Special Replay) – A deep dive into Luke 1:46-55 with practical applications.
- Holy Family Our Family (Special Replay) – Reflections on Joseph and Mary’s example for modern life.
- True Meaning of Christmas – Meditations on Emmanuel drawing from John 1.
- Christmas Blessings – Simple prayers and scriptures to enhance your celebrations.
The post Mediations On The Nativity appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Birth of John the Baptist: “Zachariah wrote, His Name is ‘John’.” Painting by Jacopo Pontormo, 1526, USA
Celebration at Zechariah’s Home and Naming of the BabyThe Scriptures invite us to a celebration at Zechariah’s home. It’s time to name his newborn boy and perform the baby’s circumcision. You can imagine yourself as one of the neighbors who has come to help name the baby born to the old couple, the priest Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth. What would you say? Maybe this: “The boy is a miracle baby! What a blessing from the Lord for Elizabeth! Shockingly, Zechariah has been muted since the last time he served in the temple. I wonder if he will ever recover his speech.”
Zechariah’s tongue is freedToday, we will cover these points: (1) John’s circumcision, (2) the neighbors choosing the name Zechariah to honor his father, (3) Zechariah wrote, “his name is John” and immediately, his tongue was freed, (4) Zechariah praises God for the promises that will be fulfilled in His son John and the coming of the Messiah, and (5) we can pray the Benedictus with joy every day of Advent.
LinksThe episode is based on a chapter from my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
For bookmarks or prayer points from The Joy of Advent Podcast series, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post The Joy of Advent #4 ~ Joy at the Birth of John the Baptist & Zechariah’s Benedictus appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Sarah CobbA Story of Faith, Family, and Living Counterculturally
A Magnificat Ministry Podcast
In this heartfelt episode, Sarah Cobb shares her personal testimony of growing up in a devout Catholic family and learning how to live out her faith in a world that is becoming increasingly secular.
Sarah is from Columbus, Ohio, and is currently a senior at the University of Cincinnati, where she is pursuing a degree in Marketing. She credits her strong faith foundation to her family and her years in Catholic education. Watching her parents and grandparents lead by example—and openly share their faith—has inspired Sarah to do the same.
Throughout high school and college, Sarah’s faith has grown deeply. She speaks about the importance of surrounding herself with friends rooted in Christ, the power of prayer within family life, and how service and volunteering have shaped her spiritual journey. Her testimony is an encouragement to anyone striving to walk a faithful path with courage and joy.
This testimony was given to the Magnificat – Huron, Ohio Chapter in February 2025.
Episode Details Length: 28 minutes, 45 seconds
Format: Recorded testimony
About MagnificatMagnificat is a ministry to Catholic women, dedicated to fostering spiritual growth through prayer, fellowship, and witness.
Learn more about the ministry:
www.magnificat-ministry.org
Visit the Magnificat Store Looking for meaningful gifts for family, friends—or yourself?
The Magnificat Store offers:
- Rosaries
- Apparel
- Books & CDs
- Jewelry & statues
- Bible studies and spiritual growth programs
- And much more!
Explore the store here:
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
The post Testimony of Sarah Cobb appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Episode 362: Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday LifeAre we really called to be saints… even in the middle of busy, ordinary life?
In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, we explore what it truly means to be called to sainthood—not as a lofty, unreachable goal reserved for monks or martyrs, but as a daily invitation for every believer.
As the holidays approach and life feels increasingly full, it can be difficult to focus on prayer, holiness, or even quiet moments with the Lord. Yet Scripture reminds us that sainthood is not about perfection—it’s about total commitment to God, lived out one faithful step at a time.
Through Scripture, real-life stories, and reflections on well-known saints, we are reminded that holiness often looks like small acts done with great love.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover: What Scripture means when it says we are called to be saints* * Why sainthood isn’t reserved for clergy or religious life * How fear often keeps us from fully surrendering to God * Why saints can be described as “rebels for God” * Lessons from modern examples of faith lived boldly * Encouragement from the life of Mother Teresa and her hidden struggles * Practical, manageable steps to grow in holiness today * Why there is no “middle ground” when it comes to following Christ
Scripture Featured: James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift comes from above * Romans 1:7 – Called to be saints * Joshua 24:15 – Choose this day whom you will serve * Philippians 4:13 – Strength through Christ * Philippians 4:7 – The peace that surpasses understanding * Matthew 6:16–18 – Fasting in humility * Ephesians 2:8–10* – Saved by grace, created for good works
Simple Ways to Live the Call to Sainthood:* Put God first each day—even with a short prayer * Practice daily prayer, morning or night * Embrace small acts of self-denial or fasting * Make restitution when you’ve wronged others * Give generously to those in need * Share Christ through both words and actions
Sainthood isn’t about being flawless—it’s about running toward God, especially when life is difficult. Whether you’re a parent, student, professional, or caregiver, your daily vocation is holy ground when offered to the Lord.
“Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” — Mother Teresa
May this episode encourage you to take one faithful step closer to God today.
Listen to Episode 362
Find the full show notes and resources at:
AFewMinutesWithGodPodcast.com
The post Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Visitation Painting by Philippe de Champaigne, 1643-1648
The Visitation of Mary & Sharing Joy with Elizabeth
Do you need more JOY in your life this Advent? Today, Mary and Elizabeth will show you how to share and receive more joy.
In this podcast, we join Blessed Mary on her journey from Nazareth to the Hill Country of Judea, near Jerusalem. There she visits her old cousin Elizabeth. Both women are expecting, celebrating the upcoming births, and excited to see each other. Previously, we read that God supernaturally conceived His Son Jesus in the Virgin Mary and granted a child to be born to old Zechariah and Elizabeth. “For nothing is impossible with God!”
Today, we cover these inspiring events: (1) John the Baptist leaps for joy, (2) Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit and proclaims words of great joy, (3) Mary praises and skips with joy in the Magnificat Canticle, (4) and the two share joy-filled fellowship around stories of Gabriel and Scriptural promises about to be fulfilled with their sons, including Jesus, the Messiah.
LinksThe episode is based on a chapter from my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
For bookmarks or prayer points from The Joy of Advent Podcast series, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post The Joy of Advent #3 ~ Filled with JOY: The Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Roadblocks to Holiness | Some Women PodcastIn this episode, Angela, Donna, Jackie, and Pat will look at roadblocks to holiness including Msgr. Steven Rosseti’s list of attitudes on which the enemy feeds. Panelists share their personal experiences with overcoming unforgiveness and other dispositions in prayer and within community.
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit.“My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry.
Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women.
Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples?Why and how do we follow and serve Him today? In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today.
Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
The post Magnificat Presents Some Women – Roadblocks to Holiness appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Joy of Advent – Gabriel’s Annunciation to Mary & Nothing is Impossible with God
The Annunciation and Nothing is Impossible with GodWith God, nothing is impossible! If God can supernaturally conceive the Son of God in a virgin and grant a child to an elderly couple, then He can make your impossible become POSSIBLE. Join us today as we travel to Nazareth. We will hear the Great Annunciation of JOY to Mary as well as Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy. “For nothing is impossible with God.” The episode is based on my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
Another Message from Gabriel and Mary’s FiatToday, we will cover these points from Luke 1: 25-38: (1) The powerful Archangel Gabriel brings the second annunciation– this time to a young girl in Nazareth, (2) The Baby would be named Jesus, [Yeshua in Hebrew] after His Heavenly Father [Yahweh God in Hebrew], (3) Mary’s Fiat [Latin for Let it Be], (4) The incarnation means God became man, reaching out to mankind, and (5) Mary’s example shows us to Listen, Dialogue with God, and Surrender.
LinksThe episode is based on a chapter from my book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
For bookmarks or prayer points from The Joy of Advent Podcast series, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post The JOY of Advent #2 ~ The Annunciation of Mary: With God, Nothing is Impossible appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The True Meaning of Christmas Gifts: Giving from the Heart ~ Episode 363Year after year, we spend a great deal of money on the perfect gift, only to miss the true meaning of Christmas gifts: giving from the heart. How can we take back the holiday and our sanity? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, Felice focuses on the true meaning of Christmas, making it affordable and Christian!
I heard someone enthusiastically say that the holidays are near, and I panicked. My son is deployed, and I want to send him a package. I have baking to do (which I love), and I have presents to buy. I don’t have enough time or even the energy to tackle all of this in November, let alone December! But then I took a deep breath and prayed, ‘God, help me,’ and I felt calm.
Biblical Perspective on GivingWhat is the biblical perspective of giving? All of it costs nothing. It is time, love, courage, and inspiration all stemming from our love of God. If we love God, this love will pour out from us onto others. The biblical perspective on giving emphasizes generosity that flows from a grateful heart, not obligation or show. As Catholics understand it, giving isn’t about a strict percentage like Old Testament tithing but about offering cheerfully and sacrificially, returning God’s gifts back to Him through acts of worship and charity.
Charity in Gift GivingThis topic highlights generosity inspired by the Magi in Matthew 2:11, who journeyed far to present gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus—not out of duty, but as an outpouring of adoration and recognition of His kingship, divinity, and future sacrifice. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 9:7, St. Paul reminds us, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Acts 20:35 echoes Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” showing how giving aligns us with Christ’s selflessness. In everyday life, this means prioritizing heartfelt gestures over extravagant spending, allowing God’s grace to transform our giving into a reflection of His abundant love.
Translating Biblical Giving into Christmas GiftsBut how does this translate into gifts? Sometimes the best gifts are those that cost the least. Baking has been my go-to for many years. Since there is a sweet overload these days I have switched to bread baking for gifts. Even if you are not a baker there is something you can give from the heart. As a young mom, I longed for a time to get away to shop for groceries or even get a haircut without the children near. I was delighted when my mother-in-law and in later years my parents could watch the children for me. Those gifts of time are priceless to young people and old alike.
Consider simple, meaningful ways to embody this:Share a handwritten note of encouragement with your favorite prayer or write one. Offer to help a neighbor with chores during the busy season. These acts mirror the Magi’s offerings and invites the Holy Spirit to work through us, fostering a deeper connection. When we give we do so not because of obligation but because we are thankful for what the Lord has done for us. Sharing your praise reports is another way to share God’s love.
Of course, giving gifts is another way to consider gift-giving a symbol of Christ’s gift to us. We can never outgive God!
Faith-Based Gifts That Honor God’s LoveWhat are faith-based gifts that honor God’s love? Here are five ideas, each paired with a Scripture verse to inspire your giving:
- A Personalized Prayer Journal:Gift a simple notebook where the recipient can record prayers, reflections, and answered petitions. This encourages daily communion with God and honors His love by prioritizing spiritual growth. As Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” You can find these at discount stores all of the time. I found beautiful leather-bound journals for $4.99 one year.
- An Act of Service, Like Babysitting or Meal Preparation:Offer your time to assist a busy family or elderly friend, freeing them to rest or worship. This selfless giving reflects Christ’s servant heart and builds community in His name. Galatians 5:13 instructs, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
- A Charitable Donation in Their Name:Contribute to a faith-based cause, such as a Catholic charity supporting the poor or pro-life initiatives, and present a card explaining the impact. This gift extends God’s mercy outward, embodying stewardship of His blessings. Proverbs 19:17 states, “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
- Masses Celebrated:Enroll a loved one in perpetual spiritual benefits through Mass offerings. Purchase Mass enrollment cards from websites such as Marian.org, where you can arrange for them to be remembered in daily Masses, providing a gift that lasts for years through ongoing prayer and intercession. A card will be sent in your name. Direct link here. This underscores the eternal value of prayer for souls. As Hebrews 7:25 affirms, “Therefore he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”
- Handmade Rosary or Prayer Aid:Make or buy a rosary to encourage devotion to Our Lord by the example of our Lady. The rosary centers on the mysteries of Christ’s life. His birth, his death, and His resurrection. This simple tool fosters a habit of meditation and draws the recipient closer to divine grace. Luke 1:42 inspires us: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (One year I purchased glow in the dark rosaries for my grandchildren. I still had mine from my grandmother (yellowed and frayed) and it was something I treasured from my childhood.
These ideas keep Christ at the center, transforming gift-giving into an extension of worship and evangelization.By choosing gifts like these, we not only express love but also plant seeds of faith that can grow in the hearts of those we cherish. Imagine the joy of knowing your gift leads someone to a deeper encounter with the Lord—truly a reflection of the first Christmas gift, the Savior Himself.
In preparing these heartfelt presents, start with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your choices and infuse them with genuine charity. Involve your family in the process, turning gift-making into a shared act of faith that strengthens bonds and teaches the next generation about generous living. Remember, the Lord delights in our efforts, no matter how small, when offered with a pure heart.
Reclaiming Christmas Through Heartfelt GivingAs we approach this sacred season, let’s remember that the true joy of Christmas lies not in material abundance but in emulating the generosity of our Savior’s birth. By focusing on gifts from the heart—infused with time, love, and faith—we honor the Incarnation and invite others to experience God’s peace. Pray for guidance, as I did, and watch how the Lord multiplies your efforts. May your Christmas be filled with the light of Christ!
In the hustle of holiday preparations, it’s easy to lose sight of the manger’s simplicity, where God’s greatest gift arrived humbly.Consider how acts of kindness, like baking treats for a neighbor or crafting personalized prayers for loved ones, echo the selflessness of the Holy Family. As Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” Let this verse inspire you to give without expectation, trusting that the Lord will refresh your spirit amid the festivities.
Reclaiming Christmas means weaving faith into every tradition, from adorning your home with nativity scenes to sharing stories of saints who embodied charity. In doing so, we not only deepen our own devotion but also light a path for others toward eternal hope. Reflect on 2 Corinthians 9:7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” Embrace this call with joy, knowing that heartfelt giving transforms ordinary moments into sacred encounters with divine grace.
Related Podcast EpisodesFor more uplifting discussions on faith, holidays, and Christian living, check out these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Christmas Miracle Every Day – Explore how to experience the miracle of Christmas in everyday life through faith and God’s presence, with personal stories and scriptural encouragement.
- Celebrate Christmas – Discusses celebrating Advent as a preparation for Christmas, emphasizing reflection, prayer, fasting, and keeping Christ central, with family ritual ideas and ties to Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 9:6-7.
- Loneliness At Christmas – Addresses the challenge of loneliness during the holidays, offering faith-based ways to find comfort in Christ and reach out to others, with references like Isaiah 41:10.
- Christmas Blessings – A special replay examining whether we feel worthy of God’s blessings at Christmas, drawing on scripture to affirm His abundant grace.
- Christmas Is Real – Affirms the historical and spiritual reality of Christmas, debunking myths and focusing on Jesus’ birth as the ultimate gift, with practical applications for believers.
The post True Meaning of Christmas Gifts appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
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Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 11, Bishop David L. Toups – All things work for good for those who love God
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Bishop David L. Toups shares his inspiring testimony and how the Lord led him to become a priest, then Bishop, as well as some valuable faith-filled life lessons. Bishop Toups obtained a Bachelor of Sacred Theology degree and Licentiate of Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. Later, Bishop received a Doctor of Sacred Theology degree from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, also in Rome. He was appointed to the faculty at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida, and later named dean of students.
In 2007, Bishop Toups left St. Vincent de Paul to become associate director of the Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations at the USCCB in Washington D.C. In 2020, Pope Francis appointed him as Bishop of Beaumont where he continues to serve today. Bishop Toups, author of many articles, is also author of the book, Reclaiming Our Priestly Character.
Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims. The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.
Find out more about Bishop Toup’s Broadcast “For The Good”:
https://omomchurchbmt.com/videos
“For The Good” on YouTube:
Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts
Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry
Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/
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About Magnificat® Ministry
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry
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The JOY of Advent: Journey with the People, Prayers, and Events at Jesus’ First ComingAre you hoping for a Joy-filled Advent? Join our podcast series and celebrate the joy of the people, events, and prayers at Jesus’ first coming. You will meet Zechariah, Elizabeth, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, the Angels, the Shepherds, Simeon, Anna, and the Magi. It’s as if you will travel with them via Scripture and partake in the most meaningful events in their lives. In Episode #1, we will share the Joy of Zechariah and God’s answer to his prayers.
Episode #1 ~ Zechariah’s JOY: God Answers PrayerAre you waiting for an answer to prayer? Stay hopeful this Advent! In our Joy of Advent Episode #1, we meet Zechariah. He will teach us a joy-filled lesson in an unusual way: Don’t give up hope – God hears & God answers prayer. We will cover these points today: (1) the meaning of Advent, (2) the two annunciations in Luke 1: 1-7, (3) Gabriel, the might of God- no puny angel, (4) God was preparing Joseph and Mary while Zechariah had to wait a little longer, and (5) prayer points for a new and fresh encounter God, asking for new joy and everyday miracles.
LinksFor bookmarks or prayer points from A Joyful Advent Journey Podcast, go to: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here for the Advent book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
Find Karen’s books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
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Christian HospitalityEpisode # 47 (Holiday Replay)How are your Christian hospitality skills? Is this something that needs practice or do you have an open door policy and invite people into your inner circle, often?
In this episode, Felice Gerwitz discusses how hospitality is a gift but a skill that can improve and grow. Who knows, you may be entertaining angels!
Hebrews 13:22 is a warning from St. Paul who says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
I know we are all busy and the idea of one more thing often tips us over the edge.Yet, Christian hospitality really begins at home. I know many churches are equipped with various ministries and they all have a very important place. In fact, those ministries are a way for people to connect and grow in faith. In the past, I volunteered to teach many classes at church and for over ten years was very involved. As the seasons of my life changed, I began working on Christian hospitality and ministry in other ways. This podcast reflects one of those ways.
The Bible gives us much food for thought.Jesus was an example when he went to a tax collector’s home, someone who was considered a crook by many because they often charged more than they should in order to keep some of the money. Read Matthews 5:46-48 — here Jesus challenges us to extend our Christian hospitality even to our enemies and one line always gets me, “So be perfect, just as our heavenly Father is perfect.”
How can we be perfect?The Father, our heavenly Father perfects us – -we can’t do it alone. We are such a mess most of the time, one friend calls it being a “hot mess.” How can we minister to others when we can’t even minister to ourselves? Well, with the help of our heavenly Father!
Here is some suggestions.1. Pray. Is there someone at church who catches your eye and perhaps someone you should invite out for coffee? 2. Ask the Lord for guidance. Is there a particular ministry He wants you involved with or something you should join? 3. Introduce people you think might get along and see if you can connect others. 4. If you are Catholic and are able, go to daily Mass. Or, no matter what your denomination, take time to sit in quiet and listen to the Lord. 5. Pray about ways you can be used by the Lord in Christian hospitality. 6. If you are in a group setting, speak to those you don’t know. 7. Invite someone you don’t know into your own group. 8. Invite someone to listen to this podcast — it is a form of Christian ministry and hospitality. Better yet, listen with a friend!
The simple gesture of kindness and hospitality toward a stranger can be turned into something wonderful by the Lord.Take the time to talk to those you don’t know. If you are in prayer about this, the Lord will provide those wonderful “God-incidents” to connect you with those in need.
Remember to fill up! Go to church, pray, read the Bible and be still before the Lord. You can’t give to others if you are spiritually empty yourself.
Let’s pray:Dear Lord, I thank you for the gifts you’ve given me and to those who are listening to this broadcast. I know that nothing is impossible for you and if you call us to service, you will provide not only for us but for those who we minister to, in Your Name, Jesus. We ask you to send us out in service for You, as your hands and feet. Point us to those who need You the most and let us help in any way that we can. Thank you Lord for giving us the gift of hospitality and bring good for the kingdom of God from our efforts. I pray this in Jesus, Name. Amen.
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Who were the women that followed Jesus and his disciples? Why and how do we follow and serve Him today?In this SOME WOMEN podcast series, based on the Luke 8:1-3 reference to women who accompanied Jesus and His disciples, Magnificat® presents a lively panel discussion, with occasional guest panelists, on issues relevant to women today.
Various topics such as growing in holiness, community, living a Holy Spirit lifestyle, Spiritual warfare, nurturing a prayer life, and more, will be considered in the light of Sacred Scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church. Join us as we pray, learn, and experience what God can do in our lives if we let Him!
In This Episode of SOME WOMENIn this episode, Angela, Jackie , and Pat will share their personal calls to holiness, acknowledging it as a journey that we choose when we want to be like Jesus. Listen as they describe times in their lives when they felt a conviction to grow in holiness, getting serious about growing in holiness, and their experiences along the journey to holiness.
Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry.
Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Magnificat® is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, an image of the Church, and model for all Christians, especially women. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org
The post Magnificat Presents Some Women – What is Holiness? appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
WRAP fosters a personal two-way conversation with your heavenly Father through prayer and Scripture.
Hearing God’s VoiceHave you heard from God today? He wants to speak to you. Are you listening? Join the podcast this week and learn how to hear from God and “WRAP yourself in Scripture.” (Scroll Down to play the Podcast.)
Two-Way ConversationYou can have a personal two-way conversation with your heavenly Father. He wants to speak to you. Begin today to practice the original WRAP method for reading, reflecting on, and hearing God’s voice in Scripture with author Karen Dwyer. Karen, with husband Larry, created the WRAP acronym and the book WRAP Yourself in Scripture in 2009, and now it’s in a NEW 4th edition. We will cover these points:
Method Promoted by the Church Fathers WRAP is based on the principles of Lectio Divina (pronounced Lect-see-oh Di-vee-na), an ancient, yet rediscovered, method of reading, reflecting on, and praying Scripture. * The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes Lectio Divina as a method “where the Word of God is so read and meditated on that it becomes prayer” (CCC 1177*). This method has been practiced for centuries by the Desert Fathers, the Benedictines, the Carmelites, and various Doctors of the Church, including St. Gregory the Great, St. Jerome, St. John of the Cross, and St. Teresa of Avila, among others.
Defined by the Catechism The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines Christian prayer as “a covenant relationship between God and Man in Christ” (CCC 2564). Inherent in this relationship is a two-way conversation. * The Second Vatican Council points out: “In the sacred books [of Scripture] the Father who is in heaven comes lovingly to meet his children and talks with them” (Dei Verbum 21*).
WRAP – Simplified Guide to Lectio Divina* Lectio Divina is Latin for “divine reading” of Scripture. It is much more than simply perusing the chapters of Scripture as if reading a novel or a newspaper or reading a history book. * The Latin word lectio means deeply consuming a reading. * The four steps of WRAP is a simplified version of Lectio Divina, which includes lectio, meditatio, oratio, and contemplatio in the original Latin.
WRAP, the Acronym WRAP is an Acronym that stands for: * W=WRITE the verse(s) down when the words jump out to you. * R = REFLECT or meditate on the words, reread them, mutter them, and imagine the meaning in dialogue with Jesus. * A=APPLY by continuing to ask the Lord if there is an application and response. * P*= PRAY & PRAISE, by making the verse your prayer. Praise the mighty name of Jesus your Savior, God your Heavenly Father, and the Holy Spirit, your Guide * Enhance your joy by cultivating a deeper relationship with God.
Download the template and the 14 Days of WRAP bookmark from my website WRAPyourselfinJOY.com and start practicing WRAP with Psalm 103: 1-13.
Four Part Series ~ Related Links* + Part 2 The Bible: “A Pharmacy Open to All Souls” + Part 3 Holy, Heavenly Meditation + Part 4: Tips for Hearing God Every Day
Books* Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Find Karen’s books: + Wrap Yourself in Scripture: A Guide to Lectio Divina, Fourth Edition + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
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Tips for WRAP to help you hear God with a message just for you.
Tips for Hearing God Every DayHave you ever thought, “Can I really hear from God every day?” The answer is, “Yes, you can!” But you have to pause. WRAP can help you hear Jesus Christ with a personal message meant just for you. With WRAP, you’ll discover that God’s Word is truly alive and that He wants to speak to you. But you have to pause and make room for Him. Being faithful in reading and praying the Word of God will transform your life forever! Join us today and discover the tips you need to hear from God every day, pausing for a message specifically for you. (Scroll Down for Podcast.)
Practical Council in the Holy SpiritFr. John Horn, in the foreword of our book, WRAP Yourself in Scripture, says, “WRAP provides a way of receiving practical counsel in the Holy Spirit and a new, intimate relationship with Jesus and the Father. This method of prayer will awaken your inner desire to become more and more ‘filled with all the fullness of God’” (Ephesians 3: 19). Today, we will cover these tips for hearing God every day, pausing, and being ‘filled with all the fullness of God.”
How Much Time Does WRAP Take?* You can follow this method for as little as 10 minutes or much longer. * For example, you could take your Bible and journal with you to WRAP in Adoration.
Where should I WRAP?* Try to pause for a few minutes every day to practice WRAP. * To pause means to intentionally slow down and step away from the chaos of daily life. * Spiritually, it’s more than just taking a break; it means you take time to be with God in prayer-a time free of distractions, to pray and connect to His peaceful presence. * Go to a place where you can be alone to pray and listen for God’s voice; you may simply shut the door.
What Supplies Do I need for WRAP?* You will need an empty notebook to use as your journal, a pen or pencil and of course, your Bible. * Keep a zippered notebook or tote bag that holds these supplies so you will have them handy
How do I Select Verses for WRAP?* Choose a section from a daily or Sunday Mass reading. * You could choose a Psalm. * Choose a passage that’s about 5 to 10 verses.
How do I Begin?* Close your eyes and picture in your mind that the Lord is sitting with you, and you can sense his loving, sustaining presence. * Offer a simple prayer of thanksgiving and invite the Holy Spirit to guide and speak to you.
Personal Application* Grab a pen and a small, inexpensive notebook and call it your WRAP Journal, plus your Bible. * Turn to Psalm 27 in your Bible and WRAP with it.
Four Part Series* Part 1 Hearing God’s Voice * Part 2 The Bible: “A Pharmacy Open to All Souls” * Part 3 Holy, Heavenly Meditation * Part 4 Tips for Hearing God Every Day
Books* Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Find Karen’s books: + Wrap Yourself in Scripture: A Guide to Lectio Divina, Fourth Edition + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
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WRAP with the “Four M’s of Christian Mediation” will guide you in Prayer and Reflection
Meditation & WRAPHave you ever wondered if meditation could really be part of prayer? It can! Meditation on Scripture can bring you into a two-way conversation with God. Join us today to learn how to approach the Word of God with Holy Heavenly Meditation and prayer, guided by WRAP. (Scroll Down for Podcast.)
Distinctions Among Prayerful Meditation and Other FormsThere is a big distinction between prayerful Biblical meditation and other forms of meditation. Eastern or New Age meditations have an inward focus on the deepest self. Biblical meditation, on the other hand, brings us into a closer encounter with God and His presence around Scripture. We will cover the “Four M’s of Christian Meditation” and these points:
Straightforward and Uncomplicated WRAP Christian meditation “engages thought, imagination, emotion, and desire” (CCC 2708*). * You speak to God from your thoughts, feelings, and desires as you contemplate the message in the verse. * What does it mean for the way you act, live, and treat others?
The Bible Encourages Meditation Joshua 1: 8: “You shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act in accordance with all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful * Psalm 1: 1-2: Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers;but their delight is in the law of the Lord. * Psalm 119: 97 Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long. * Luke 2: 10: Mary treasured all these words [the words from God] and pondered them in her heart.*
The Old Testament Hebrew Words translated “Meditation” HÂGÂH*, translated “meditate,” means “to murmur or mutter or to repeat over and over,” “to ponder,” and “to deeply imagine” God’s word. * SIYACH means to meditate upon, study, ponder, to talk, to speak aloud, and even to sing.
The 4 M’s of Meditation MULL OVER means positively pondering and intensely considering the meaning of the verse. * MUTTER means repeating the verse and words aloud and to yourself in order to chew them. * MENTALLY IMAGINE means to put yourself in a scene as you read it. * M*EMORIZE comes easily after mulling over, muttering, and mentally picturing the verse or verses.
Personal Application* Grab a pen and a small, inexpensive notebook and call it your WRAP Journal, plus your Bible. * Turn to Psalm 1: 1-6 in your Bible and WRAP with it.
Five Part Series* Part 1 Hearing God’s Voice * Part 2 The Bible: “A Pharmacy Open to All Souls”
Books* Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Find Karen’s books: + Wrap Yourself in Scripture: A Guide to Lectio Divina, Fourth Edition + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
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The Bible is: “A pharmacy open to all souls….with remedies just right for your cases.”
A PharmacyDid you know the Bible offers a “pharmacy open to all souls” with remedies for your worries and troubles? Saint Basil the Great tells us this and more. Join us today to learn how WRAP – the acronym for Lectio Divina- can help you discover the medicine just right for your body, soul, and spirit. (Scroll Down to Listen.)
WRAP – Simplified Guide to Lectio Divina The WRAP acronym stands for Write, Reflect, Apply, and Pray. * It’s a simplified guide for the practice of Lectio Divina, which Christians have used in prayer since the third century. * Pope Benedict XVI recommended Lectio Divina for all: If it is effectively promoted, this practice will bring to the Church – I am convinced of it – a new spiritual springtime. … Lectio Divina should therefore be increasingly encouraged, also through the use of new methods, carefully thought through and in step with the times. It should never be forgotten that the Word of God is a lamp for our feet and a light for our path (cf. Ps 119[118]:105). (International Congress on Dei Verbum (9- 16-2005).*
Four Stages of Prayer The four stages of prayer described by Rev. Mark Thibodeaux (The Armchair Mystic) include: . Talking at God, Talking to God, Listening to God speak to your heart –through reading & reflecting on Scripture daily, Resting in God’s presence*, enjoying His company. * Take the Self-report Prayer Survey in WRAP Yourself in Scripture, 4th Edition, by Karen & Lawrence Dwyer, or download the bookmark from WRAPYourselfinJoy.com.
St. Basil the Great “The Holy Spirit composed the Scriptures so that in them, as in a pharmacy open to all souls, we might each of us be able to find the medicine suited to our own particular illness…and in the Books of Psalms we can find… remedies just right for their cases.” (Spidlik, T., & Drake, P. (1993). Drinking from the Hidden Fountain: A Patristic Breviary, Liturgical Press.) * He reminds us that the Lord, encountered through the passages of Scripture, heals our cases. * Cases can refer to problems, worries, anxieties, rejection, and much more.*
Personal Application* Grab a pen and a small, inexpensive notebook and call it your WRAP Journal, plus your Bible. * Select a Scripture passage WRAP with Psalm 103: 1-13 again. * Go to a quiet place to be alone for 10 minutes. * Pray, ask, and open your heart for God. Begin your prayer of thanksgiving. Acknowledge that the Lord is with you. Thank Jesus, that He wants to speak to your heart today through Scripture. Pray, Come, Holy Spirit, and enlighten my mind to Your truth.” * Spread out the W R A P in your journal over at least one page. * Download the template bookmark from the website WRAPyourselfinJOY.com and practice WRAP.
Five Part Series* Part 1 Hearing God’s Voice
Books* Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Find Karen’s books: + Wrap Yourself in Scripture: A Guide to Lectio Divina, Fourth Edition + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
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Show Notes: Episode 361 – Pray Deeper: Overcoming Barriers to a Vibrant Prayer LifePodcast: A Few Minutes with God
Host: Felice Gerwitz
Network: Ultimate Christian Podcast Network
Episode OverviewIn this episode, Felice Gerwitz explores practical strategies for deepening your prayer life and overcoming common obstacles such as doubt, busyness, and spiritual dryness. Drawing from personal experience and scripture, listeners are encouraged to persevere in prayer and experience God’s transformative presence.
Key Topics & Takeaways1. Recognizing Barriers to Prayer* Prayer routines can become stagnant or distracted by daily life, social media, and work pressures. * Common obstacles include doubt, lack of time, spiritual dryness, and routine prayers.
- Scriptural Encouragement* Luke 18:1: Jesus teaches perseverance in prayer.
- Romans 12:12: Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
- Matthew 6:6: Pray privately and intentionally.
- Psalms 42:1-2: God revives our spirit when we seek Him.
- Ephesians 6:18: Pray in the Spirit on all occasions.
- James 5:16: The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
- 1 Timothy 2:1: Intercede and give thanks for all people.
- Philippians 4:6: Present requests to God with thanksgiving.
- Daniel 6:10, 1 Samuel 1:10-20, Luke 5:16: Examples of bold and persistent prayer.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9: God’s grace is sufficient in weakness.
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Romans 5:3-4: Suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope.
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Practical Strategies for a Vibrant Prayer Life* Start small: Even five-minute increments can make a difference.
- Make a “prayer appointment” and treat it as an important meeting.
- Use tools like devotionals or scripture apps to begin your day intentionally.
- Incorporate praise, worship, journaling, and quiet reflection.
- Lean on community for support and accountability.
- Intercede for others to shift focus from self and serve.
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End prayers with gratitude to foster joy and remember God’s faithfulness.
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Personal Reflections* The host shares personal experiences of praying with children, using short segments, and finding revival through intentional prayer.
- Encouragement to recognize distractions and respond to God’s nudges.
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Importance of community prayer and sharing requests for mutual support.
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Encouragement & Closing* Prayer is for our transformation, not to change God.
- Rely on God’s grace and the Holy Spirit’s help.
- Commitment to break through barriers together and grow in faith.
- Host prays for listeners’ renewed prayer lives and asks for prayers in return.
Related Episodes on Prayer and FaithDeepen your prayer journey with these episodes from A Few Minutes with God on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:
- Praying for a Friend – Explore the power of intercessory prayer for loved ones.
- Prayer to God – Practical ways to communicate with the Almighty daily.
- Faith Minutes – Turn brief moments into powerful faith-building prayers.
- Asking God – A replay on boldly approaching God with your needs.
- Your God-Given Purpose – How prayer reveals God’s plan for your life.
Resources Mentioned* Ultimate Christian Podcast Network * Magnificat devotional pamphlet * A Few Minutes with God Facebook page
Call to Action* Subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. * Visit afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com for show notes and more episodes. * Join the community and share prayer requests.
May God bless you today and always. Amen.
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Testimony of Sister Rita Clare Yoches, T.O.R.You have preserved my life from the pit of destruction” (Is 38:17). That is exactly what the Lord did for Sr. Rita Clare. She went to a Catholic grade school and high school in Dearborn, Michigan. As a family, they went to Mass every Sunday and she thought that was all you had to do as a Catholic. She never thought about becoming a nun. She excelled in school and sports. She played volleyball, soccer, softball, golf, and basketball in high school. It’s no wonder there was not any time for God – except for a quick prayer here and there. She would pray a ‘Hail Mary’ every time one of her teammates would shoot a foul shot in basketball. She received a full scholarship to play Division I basketball at the University of Detroit-Mercy. Her faith still just consisted of Mass on Sundays.
In college Rita Clare was being exposed to the culture and becoming more and more desensitized to right and wrong. She did not know how to defend her faith and did not search for anyone to explain it to her. Sister Rita Clare graduated with a degree in Sports Medicine. After college, she opened a private training facility for athletes and played women’s professional football for six years. At this point in her life, she lived to party. Her life started steamrolling down the wrong path until one Sunday at Mass, the Priest preached on 1 Corinthians 11:27-30. She realized she was sick and dying on the inside and needed to run to confession. She slowly started converting back to the Lord, and He gently started calling her to religious life, and 15 years later, she was more fulfilled than she ever thought possible.
This testimony was given to the Pittsburgh, PA Chapter in August 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
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We live in a divided world, where right is wrong and wrong is right, but the good news? God wins! This podcast focuses on the ultimate reality in our lives: God reigns now and forever.
God Wins ~ Now and Forever ~ Episode 321I’ve been listening to teachings on the Bible, and the discussion has centered around the concept of wisdom. First, to desire wisdom means identifying that we need it. Once we realize we need it, our minds and hearts are open. The idea is that to love wisdom is to follow God’s laws. That gives us the blessed assurance that our lives will be with God forever.
We often forget that the Lord is victorious no matter what we feel in our hearts or how we deal with the hardships in our lives. We just completed another contentious election. People lie, and others believe. It is astounding to those of us who try to rationalize it, make sense of it, and understand things in a logical manner. I can talk civilly to anyone of all different views. I agree to disagree if it comes down to that, but this inability to converse is truly evil. The inability to disagree is also evil.
The Issues That Divide UsThe issues that plagued our country were and are truly diabolical. Each one of us knows them and we are astounded that this is the world in which we live. Yet God knows. He has delivered us at this point of time, but we must always put our trust in Him and not in man! Somehow, we can see the evil where others are blinded. As one young adult told me recently, “No one believes the news on television.” That wisdom.
Yet, what does wisdom teach us? It teaches us the truth, and it teaches us God’s sovereignty. Our God is a God of order; He is not a God of chaos. There are things that are clear. There are other things that are not, yet God has given us the ability to make up our own mind and act upon it. Yet, are we willing to accept the consequences?
God is indeed control of our lives, but God gives us:
- The leader we deserve
- God gives us free will
- God allows people of ill intent to cheat
Therefore, not voting is becoming complacent in a way, and that is not my teaching; it actually comes from Fr. Rippenger, an exorcist priest. He says we must choose the less of two evils. Why am I discussing this after an election and not before? No matter when you hear this, you are responsible for your own choices, and how those choices affect you (and me) is often overlooked. The prayers and sacrifices of the Christian people I aligned within my own state of Florida managed to overturn very detrimental amendments to our constitution. I am still in total shock they did not pass, and I praise God for this blessing.
God is victorious. God wins – God always wins, yet we must do our part.We must pray, we must fast, and we must hold those truths of faith in our hearts. I’m going to read you a portion of Romans 8. I normally quote Romans 8:28 this is one of my favorite verses, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
That is you and me, yes, but while God works out things for good, we might not like the trial and tribulation (for our own good) that we must go through. It is echoed in Romans 8:31-32 …If God is for us, who can be against us?He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
For our salvation God sent His only begotten Son John 3:16: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For our salvation, for our sake, for us. Do we cherish this? Do we praise God on a daily basis? Do we say, “Oh my gosh I can not praise and thank-you enough?” Do we truly understand the concept of God wins?
Romans 8:31-39 (read on air).
Amen and Amen! But, friends, what will you do with this information? How will you handle the truth? In what way will you go forth from today onward? We must look within our hearts and pray daily for a growth in our faith and for a true longing for wisdom that only God can bring.
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Where do we fit in when we consider God’s vastness? In this podcast, we discuss our insignificance in the grand scheme of things and the Lord’s amazing love for each of us.
The Vastness of God ~ Episode 320I live in an area that has been hit hard in the last few years by hurricanes. The radar shows this vast storm out in the ocean that heads our way, and I am always in awe at how huge these things are and how deadly they are. They are powerful and dangerous, and they dwarf the state! Sometimes, we’ve had serious damage, like with Hurricane Ian, and sometimes, we’ve had a few trees down and rain but no real damage to our property, like Hurricane Milton. Each time, we feel helpless, and other than hurricane prep, which we are really good at now, all we can do is get out of harm’s way–if possible and pray!
The opposite is true for God. His vastness is good, holy, and awe-inspiring!
I was praying after hearing a teaching about the scriptures in Job, especially after Job 38, and I started thinking about my insignificance. I had a vision as if I was seeing the situation with new eyes. Wow, the God of the universe is Almighty, powerful, righteous, and, for some reason, our Creator loves and cares about us!
Vastness of GodAll these questions came to mind.
- Where do I fit in?
- Where am I in my walk with the Lord?
- Am I near or far away from God?
- How am I doing in response to my faith?
Think about those questions and add some of your own.
The Vastness of God vs. A Personal GodAfterward, I found myself reading a little book I picked up from the shelf, “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young. It has short readings for each day, and the first sentence for the day reads: “I am the Creator of heaven and earth; Lord all that is and all that will ever be.” Although I am unimaginably vast, I choose to dwell within you, permeating you with My Presence.”
That is a coincidence, or truthfully, a God-incidence is more like it. This is the Lord’s way of saying that he hears our prayers and knows what is in our hearts. What a blessing, and you know what? I felt embraced; the Lord chooses to dwell within us and permeates us with His presence!
2 Samuel 7:22 states (read on air).Scripture Verses: Job 38:1, 12-21; Job 40:3-5
Just think about that–that one sentence sums it up. The God of the Universe is truly powerful. From the rising of the sun to its setting, He has a hand in our world. The verses go on…
Job 38:16-21 (Read on air.)
Just ponder those verses.
How can we comprehend the breadth of the earth? We can’t, but Job bravely answers the Lord.
Jobs answer –> Behold; I am of little account; what can I answer you?
Job couldn’t answer, and neither could I, and this again makes me think of how insignificant we are compared to God. Do you see it? Do you have a tiny inkling of how great God is? How awesome and awe-inspiring!
We can consider God a vast entity in heaven or a personal God who wants a relationship with us. How do we repent for our transgressions? How do we make amends? Similar to Job, I want to put on sackcloth and sit in the ashes. In some ways, we can make reparation by asking our Lord for forgiveness, going to confession if we are Catholic, and identifying the root cause of sinful actions.
Typically, when we fail before the Lord and our expectations for ourselves, it is because we’ve taken our eyes off of the Lord and put them elsewhere. God is in charge, He is the Creator, evil will not prevail.
When we read these verses and others, we are brought to the realization that we are not alone. God hears our prayers, even the insignificant ones. God hears the questions in our hearts, spoken and unspoken. The realization I found through all of this is that I should give God all the praise and glory He deserves, and I can begin each day anew!
Each day begins with praising God and should end with praise and thanks. Are we grateful for the day we’ve lived, even if it was stressful? For each of us, our praises should be the knowledge that God is with us.
How do you speak to God? Here is an example”
Glory in your works, oh Lord –I accept the idea that You answer prayer, and I marvel at this, but we should not be surprised. You always show up, Lord, and I thank You and praise You, now and forever. Amen.
Talk to the Lord. He is there waiting for you. Like the new, improved Job, who suffered hardship and then was once again blessed, let us keep our eyes on the Lord, realize His powerful works, and glory in His Name, now and forever. Amen.
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Striving for excellence is a topic I love to discuss, but Christian excellence is even better. How do we do this? In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz discusses what Jesus tells us about excellence and the stunning truth behind His words!
Christian Excellence ~ Epiosde 319We find the concept of Christian excellence in the fifth book of Matthew, the scripture we discussed in episode 319. Last week we discussed the importance of loving our enemies with the underlying reason that if we do, at least in our will, we “chose” to love, we will not be stressed, upset, or harbor unforgiveness in our hearts when we think of or remember those who have harmed us in some way. Yet today, we find the idea of excellence under the heading of an “eye for an eye.”
Christian Excellence In The Most Unlikely PlaceMatthew 5:38-42 states: (read on air)
What is the Lord asking of us? It’s impossible to be sure. However, when we consider this concept of giving more than we have to give, we will see the concept of excellence permeates the verse. How can we not resist an evil person? How can we turn the other cheek? Why would we even want to do this?
God’s Ways Are RighteousAt the root of the idea of turning the other cheek involves not retaliating or in any way seeking revenge. Yet Jesus does not want a group of followers who are pushovers or pacifists. That in the face of evil will sit there doing nothing. The idea of a slap goes back to Roman times and the idea of class and distinction. A slap on the left cheek would mean the person asked the other to show they were equal. A right cheek slap signified you were in the class below. It would take guts and bravery to turn the other cheek, and basically, that meant, in a non-violent manner, you were challenging this status.
Similar to the idea of praying for a person who has hurt you instead of seeking harm or ill will toward them, we see the challenge for us goes deep; it goes to the heart of who we are as people. God is always right and just. Yet His ways at the core are humility and courage. Jesus showed humility yet true courage when He faced execution, not for crimes He committed but for the sins we commit daily. It is important to recall He died for us!
We further read in Luke 6:27-31 (Read on air.)
Again, go above and beyond and again in humility!
Does that mean we take physical abuse at the hands of a tormentor? Of course not. But, we can avoid the need to stir up trouble and cause dissent when it can be avoided. How often are we reminded of this within our own families? Several of my children are instigators; they knew how to get each other in trouble when they were younger. These sentences often began with “Mom (said in a whinny voice), so-and-so is doing XYZ.” As parents, we react to the squeaky wheel.
This is a chance for a parent to teach a child (or, in this case, remind ourselves) the importance of humility in dealing with others. However, it often reminds us to strive to be the best we can be and not settle for mediocrity.
Christian Excellence God’s WayThe concept of excellence is not ingrained, although it should be, and it is something that we can learn and practice. A parenting class I attended long ago told us to be an example to our children, and one way we could do this was by returning the grocery cart to a holding rack. What a pain that can be, and yet it made sense. If we go above and beyond in returning a cart, how much more will we do in our personal lives and in other areas of our life?
In a world of bad service, careless people, and a narcissistic society, we find that those who strive for excellence do it for themselves. As a family, we go out to dinner after church services, and at one of our favorite restaurants, one server gives us excellent service. We are not an easy crowd since one of my sons can drink as many lemonades as she puts on the table. She started bringing him two. As we left one evening, I commented that she had spoiled us and made it difficult for us to go elsewhere. She told me she loves her job and decided to be the best.
My dad first owned a bakery and then a restaurant through college. I remember waitressing, and I send a virtual hug to all of you who do. It can be a thankless job. It never occurred to me once to do it with joy or self-giving. As much as I could, I worked in the back, preparing the meals. It was so much more rewarding for me. There, I could be appreciated for my talent. But that is not what the Lord asks us to do: work at a task only for the praise we will receive.
Can we say that in our lives? Being the best shows an example of God’s love for us. Being the best means we strive not only for excellence because we should but because this is what the Lord would want for us. How can you strive for Christian excellence?
Think and pray about this and see what the Lord calls to mind. Make time this week to strive for excellence beyond our job title or the title we hold in our homes and families.
Renounce any thoughts that you are not good enough or can’t do it — because you can, and I know this because anything is possible with God! Matthew 19:26 “Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Let’s focus on the thought that we can strive for excellence, go above and beyond what we expect for ourselves, and rely on the strength, power, and miracles of Almighty God. I pray you are blessed!
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Testimony of Holly LingerFrom an early age, Holly had a strong faith and a powerful encounter with God. Throughout the years, many life circumstances would challenge this faith. During her freshman year of high school, an airplane crash caused her family to take in three orphaned children. Family life suddenly changed dramatically. Then in college, Holly met her future husband, Tim, a Protestant. Moving to a new city she left the Catholic Church and explored non-denominational fellowship. She experienced complicated pregnancy’s due to a genetic disorder. Through the loss of several children in miscarriages, birth and infancy her faith was shaken. These difficult times led her back to the Catholic Church and her husband joined her. She discovered the healing words of Mother Teresa and Padre Pio and experienced the power of the Sacraments. God was slowly revealing the truth of the Catholic Church.
He said, “Naked I came forth from my mother’s womb, and naked Ishall go back there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!” Job 1:21
This testimony was given to the Stark County, OH Chapter in June of 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Christian Example ~ 272What is a good Christian example? We can point to the saints, people like Mother Teresa and others. But, truly we can be an example to others by asking the Lord for His grace and His help.
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Sadly, we, as Christians as a whole, are not the best examples of how to live. The promises of the gospel message show others, especially those who are suffering, that there is faith, hope, love, and compassion from the Lord.
God gives us many examples through the scriptures of how he expects us, his people, to act, and we fall short. Sometimes we fall short by word, sometimes by deed, and most of the time, just because we’re too lazy to do what is right truthfully, sometimes we can be so hard on ourselves or as one of our pastors says we have Christian scrupulosity. We care more for the letter of the law rather than the law itself. When we read the scriptures, we see it plainly, and yet how many of us take it to heart I know I’m guilty of this myself.
In Luke 7:31-35 we read, (on air).
Now, if we read the gospel of Luke Chapter 7, we will see before this happened, Jesus had been very busy. He was curing many who had diseases and sicknesses and casting out evil spirits. He gave sight to the blind and cured those who had leprosy. Those who were lame walked, but yet Jesus was reprimanding the people because even though they saw these miracles, they were not ready to change their lives
As Christians, we know the end of the story. We know what it is we should do God had compassion on those, and on those who were suffering, he brought people back to life. This is an example to us today of the gift that God gives us as Christians. We have the opportunity for everlasting life with him, so how are we going to be an example as Christians? How are we going to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to the Lord?
I can give you a list, of five or ten things you can do. But, my list might not be the one that is right for you. And, in doing this good thing, being a Christian example, it can cause us to be boastful, or to congratulate ourselves that we are not like those sinners over there. Friends, we must be cautious.
I did a podcast sometime back that I titled Judgmental Christians, and I’ll put a show a link I’ll put a link in the show notes. (Tell the story on air)
To summarize the other podcast, I explained how I should live my life according to the gospels I should improve my life, and I needed to forgive those who hurt me and ask forgiveness for those I had hurt. Friends, we are all flawed! It is difficult to show an example of Christianity to others when we are hurting, and as my mother used to say we need to get our own house in order before we can try to fix the houses of others
In giving others an example of what it means to be a Christian, we are following the example Christ gave us. However, when we pray, when we give alms, we do this because we should out of obedience, it is a free-will decision
Being a Christian is a free-will decision, and acting like one means we show others humility, love, and compassion, especially if they are hurting and especially if they feel rejected by others. When Jesus walked the earth, he called his disciples, I love the phrase “Come follow me” This is an example of what it means to follow and to be called by God.
But we know we are all called by God, the Scriptures tell us, He has called us by name…(Isaiah 43:1). Knowing someone’s name held great importance in Biblical times and even today. Aren’t you happy when you remember someone’s name or they remember yours? The significance is import. Even more, God knows the “number of hairs on my head– And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Matthew 10:30.
In Matthew 9:9-13 we read (on air).
Wow! God is calling us; he is calling all of us. Not the perfect, not the ones that have it all together, but us. The sinners.
As a Christian, our example may be flawed, but it is at least an attempt, not at perfect but of example. All of these things show us that there is a right and a wrong way to act, but one thing we know, we should not be judgemental like the Pharisees.
Think about everyday life, driving in traffic trying to find a parking spot or maybe returning something at a store when the clerk is very frustrating. We can use these everyday opportunities to say thank you or some other greeting that is welcoming. Or, “I appreciate the excellent job you have done or appreciate how hard you’re working if they haven’t done an excellent job.” You know what I mean.
Sometimes it only costs us a few minutes of our time, and sometimes it costs us much more. It is a sacrifice, and that is a small price to pay. If we can all show just a little bit of grace to others because God has given us grace, we should. Jesus asks us to follow him. It is not a call we should take lightly. It is those baby steps that take us closer to Christ.
Let’s all pray and ask the good Lord to give us the grace we need to be a Christian example because only by his gift of love and grace can we possibly show others just a tiny bit of the goodness of God. My friends rejoice and are glad because he is there for us not just today but every day, and I just pray that this week your challenge will be, can you guess it that’s right, to be a Christian example to either yourself or to others in your life and beyond take care and may the Lord bless you today and always.
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While loving those who love you is easy, Jesus tells us we should love our enemy! How do we do this? In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz will discuss the concept of Christian love and how it applies to our lives.
Love Your Enemy: A Spiritual Challenge~ Episode ~ 318This is a joyous message, and yet, at the same time, it is difficult. How do you love someone who does not want the best for you? How do you love someone who wishes harm against you? Is it even possible for us to consider Christian or not? It doesn’t make sense, and it is counterculture for sure, but that’s what makes it so intriguing.
I will admit that one of the hardest lessons of all is that we are asked to love our enemy, and as Christians, we have a higher calling. While thinking about taking revenge and thinking bad thoughts about those who have hurt us is natural, it gets us nowhere. Revenge and anger make us upset and frustrated. Yet what do we do?
Should we become pushovers or pacifists? No, the Lord doesn’t call us to sit back and allow for abuse. In these cases, the best thing to do is leave or avoid the person. So again, where does this leave us? If we are to forgive our enemy but not allow that enemy to hurt us, what do we do if we’ve been hurt?
We need to seek the true meaning of this love that God advocates for, and it is simply a challenge.
First, let’s look at the extremes. When Pope John Paul II survived an assassination attempt, he later went to the jail of the man who tried to kill him and had a private conversation with him where he told him he was forgiven. The man, it was said, had a conversion experience. Whether or not this is true is irrelevant because the miracle is the forgiveness on the part of John Paul II.
The pope, as leader of the Church at the time, was teaching by example. This is truly from the gospel, which we must look at, consider, and ponder in our hearts. What does it take for a person to transcend the normal reaction and to forgive, especially in this way?
Love your enemies—a spiritual challenge that God allows in our lives. This is probably one of my least favorite scriptures because it is difficult to follow.
I’d challenge you to read all of Matthew 5 but the last of the Beatitudes is in Matthew 5:10 (Read on air.) Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, *for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.*
In this case, the persecution is for faith, justice, and standing up to bullies.
But then it goes on in verse 11 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Our spiritual challenge lies in the idea that when we are falsely accused or persecuted for our belief in God, it becomes another level of faith. We’ve risen from a level playing field to one in a heavenly realm, yet the outcome may not be what we hope. Even if we stand up for truth or teach about faith, it is not always rewarded.
But, I’ve learned that those who teach or preach for a reward and those whose hearts are not in the right place. Large companies will try to block our message, which is okay; that is what they think is right. But the Lord allows those who want to hear something the ability to find what they need. I can not tell you the number of times that has happened to me. So, if you are here and have listened thus far, the Lord has a message for you. Pray and seek Him. Ask.
Often, the Lord takes care of things without us even knowing or asking! Again, this is a miracle that happens from time to time in our lives. I call these faith boosters. Our faith and our lives are enriched and encouraged when these events happen.
In the past, I shared two podcasts on Forgiveness, and Asking for Forgiveness. I think a big part of loving your enemy is the ability to forgive, and that only comes by the grace of God.
In Luke 6:32-36 we read:
32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Again, this may be something we have to think about, pray about, and ponder. The Lord is admonishing us here that He means what He says. We don’t want to be like sinners; we don’t want to only love those who can give us something in return; and we don’t want to only receive our reward in this life. Our reward will be great, the Lord promises. And that reward is eternal and everlasting.
Friends, the Lord says, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” And, let’s all pray for that for us, for our family and all of our friends. Praise You, Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen.
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Testimony of Lisa FloodLisa Flood is a wife, mom, and prayer warrior. A cradle Catholic from New Orleans. Disillusioned by abuse scandals within the church, her family left the church for several years and worshipped at a non-denominational church. They loved Jesus but did not love the Catholic Church and had no intention of returning. It was the Feast of Divine Mercy in 2008 that sparked three generations of her family to return to Catholicism. Through the gift of Ignatian prayer, Lord Teach Me to Pray, she developed an intimate relationship with each member of the Holy Trinity, and she has come to experience the Blessed Mother actively mothering her from Heaven.
Although she is a lawyer by training, Jesus had another plan. She has served in Catholic media for the past 15 years co-hosting “Focus Catholic TV” and co-hosting multiple programs on Catholic Community Radio. Lisa currently co-hosts “Faith and Marriage Today” with Jason Angelette which airs on WLAE and YouTube.
She and her husband, Mandeville dentist, Herb Flood are the proud parents of three sons and are spiritual parents to numerous children.
This testimony was given to the Metairie, LA Chapter in June of 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
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What is Christian love, and how can you get it? It comes from the Lord and fills us to overflowing, so much that it can’t be contained. In this podcast, we discuss how we can share the love that comes from Christ with a hurting world.
Christian Love ~ Episode 317One thing I love about being a Christian is that God’s love can’t be contained. It is overwhelming and vast, unlimited, and unconditional. It is the opposite of human love or what we consider love to be. There are many different types of love in the Christian sense. But without getting in the weeds and the different types of love (you can look those up for yourself), I want to focus on God’s love for us—the love of the Creator.
Thanks to NOW Programs, this evidence-based program helps students learn differences.
We hear things like – God loves you! And you may think, does he? I don’t feel like that right now. He does. You were made with the complete knowledge of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Believe it.
Part of understanding love is believing it exists. We are here because we have a purpose, a function, a job to do in the sense of being part of the human race but more than that. As a believer, and I hope you are if you are listening to this podcast, you know that Romans 8:28 holds true. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.”
You have been called according to his purpose, and whatever that purpose is for our individual lives, we must remember the grace from the Almighty will equip us daily.
God so loved the world; we hear this, and we know it. 1 John 4:7-10 (read on air).
Think about those words.
Those who love are God’s children. Why? Because they know God.
How do we know God? The theme of this entire podcast is A Few Minutes With God Podcast … spend time with God. From now on, from this podcast forward, my new ending will be a reminder, “Spend time with God!”
Because when we spend time with God, we get to know Him, we read about Him in His Word, and we read verses such as 1 John 4:7-10 and think wow, that is amazing love for me.
The verse goes on to say, “Those who do not love do not know God because God is love.” By His very nature, God, the creator of all that is good and beautiful, spoke the world into being. But this love, which is God, asks us to serve but does not demand it. It is up to us, and we have free will. The reason our world isn’t totally beautiful is that sin entered the world by the enemy that would not serve.
Just like walking out into traffic with fast-moving cars will likely cause an accident and someone’s death, it is a choice. It is the wrong choice, but our choice nonetheless, which is why there are consequences.
Yes, bad things happen to good people, and we can’t explain them. We can’t explain the forces of nature or the sinful actions of others. But God understands it all. He realizes our pain and hears our cries.
God sent His only Son for our salvation, and He took on our sins. How can we fathom that type of love? When we are annoyed, when we are upset, when we feel like things are not working as we want them to work, we must remember that truth.
Friends, if we as Christians demonstrated Christian love to others, we would change the face of the earth. Just one person at a time, one smile at a time, one kind word at a time. One of the priests I enjoy online talked about making micro-progress in his faith walk. He said to work on the little things each day. Write what you want to improve upon and do it! I will discuss that in a future podcast, as it is a great idea—little steps. Baby steps.
What is Christian love? It is self-giving. Just as God gave His life for us, we can give of our lives for others in so many ways. Do you volunteer for a ministry, visit the poor, or do other works of charity? Those are generous examples of God’s love pouring out of us toward others.
But more than that, love that is overflowing and can’t be contained flows to others. It is the commitment and decision to do for others and to do for ourselves by investing our time in a deeper relationship with God. Do it today.
And don’t forget, spend time with God. It’s not too late. Be blessed.
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Sometimes our bad habits can be opportunities to assess, grow, and determine our next steps. When we hold all the important things of our life loosely it is a bit easier to let them go.
Bad HabitsI have a few bad habits:
- I leave my shoes all around the house and then cannot find them when I am going out.
- I remember one more thing I have to say as my husband is leaving the room after we’ve finished talking.
- I often say yes to new ideas, projects, and opportunities without thinking about what else is going on.
- I think I can do it all.
What to Keep, What to Let GoA few months while talking to a good friend, I realized an opportunity might not turn out the way I wanted. She advised me to hold it loosely so that if it happened or not, I was prepared. This is very similar to detachment. Letting the things of this world not be what we hold onto. Rather, have open hands, ready to receive what God gives or able to let go of what God asks us to let go.
I have had some great new opportunities come my way and said yes to them, willing and with great excitement.
But I let go of nothing. And pretty soon, there was a feeling of overload, rather than peace. What did I need to let go?
It’s not GoodbyeI will no longer be recording this podcast. For now. Will I ever do a podcast again? Possibly. I have enjoyed it very much. I hope I have helped you in your faith life. The wide-ranging and numerous authors I have interviewed have been a great blessing. But at this time, I am turning my focus elsewhere.
Please do stay in touch with me. The best way is to subscribe to my newsletter. This will include a video series on praying with scripture and in the next few weeks I’m hosting a webinar about the Examen.
You can follow me on Instagram and Facebook. And of course, email me at deanna (at)livenotlukewarm(dot)com
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Thank you for all your support.
Thank you to the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network for hosting me!
God Bless You all and do your best to
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Testimony of Mary Sampey Mary Sampey was the youngest of 4 children in a close-knit Catholic family and was raised in Ohio. She can be described a very positive, enthusiastic and upbeat person. She attended Catholic schools through college. She was captain of the cheerleading squad and was voted as the classmate with the most school spirit in high school. Her family were hard workers and were very involved in the community.
An outsider might think that the family had it all together and nothing ever went wrong. But as Mary entered adulthood things were about to change for her family. A number or traumas and health issues occurred within the family, and they went into isolation and secrecy. Her story is about how their faith helped them deal the family illnesses, traumas, and the devastating loss of a family member. Her family would experience great suffering, but it brought her closer to Christ and she learned how suffering can turn to joy. Mary would discover the meaning of a verse God revealed to her, “You do not know what I am doing, but later you will understand.” John 13:7
Mary Sampey has a bachelor’s degree in Catholic theology from St. Vincent College and a master’s degree in theology from Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio. She is an active member and cantor at her parish and has served in roles in the Diocese of Greensburg and the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
This testimony was given to the Morgantown, WV Chapter in August of 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Our AuthorBelinda Terro Mooney is a mom of 7 adults whom she homeschooled, and a spiritual mother to many. As an author, she writes on Catholic topics like the Saints and Reparation, and mental health and addictions topics. She is a coach for Catholic moms, coaches, and therapists. She holds licenses in social work and addictions and is an Adjunct professor of human services. Belinda enjoys speaking as well. As a Secular Carmelite, she is in ongoing formation with the 3 Carmelite Doctors of the Church and has a consistent prayer life. Learn more on her website, https://belindaterromooney.com/.
Her New BookPray with Us invites us to connect with 365 saints, blesseds, venerables, and servants of God — one for each day of the year. Each day’s entry includes a brief biography of the saint and a prayer. This book provides a concise, approachable format for individuals and families to form the habit of daily prayer and to rely more purposefully on the intercession of the saints. (from OSV.com, click on the link to order your own copy!)
How did Belinda decide on which saints to include?It took time, patience, and prayer to make those decisions. She worked with her editor and wanted to include a variety of people from all over the world. She also looked towards telling the stories of our new saints and those will soon be beatified.
In all, there are 365 Saints, one for each day of the year. The book is a great way to introduce yourself and your family to the saints. Each day there is a short bio on the day’s saint and then a short prayer that asks for the saint’s help or intercession on whatever they are known for or the patron saint of.
Who is this book for?Belinda sees this book as something that can be used by families for daily prayer, busy moms who want something short but informative to read and pray with, and those interested in learning about saints. The book is well laid out and draws you in with the clean format. I encourage you to take a look and order it. November is a great time to begin learning about the saints as we celebrate the Feast of All Saints on Nov 1.
Visit my website.
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Do you feel like you belong? How important is your faith? Today’s podcast focuses on belonging to Christ and discusses the importance of knowing where and to whom you belong.
Belonging To Christ ~ Episode 316There was a popular bumper sticker with a picture of a fish and the words, “Swim against the stream.” The Ithucus (the Jesus fish) was a secret symbol of early Christians trying to avoid persecution. This symbol, even today, reminds us not to follow the crowd but to stand as individuals for Christ. As my mother always reminded me, “Just because everyone else is doing it doesn’t mean it is good.”
How does this square up with the idea of belonging to Christ? We, as Christians, are part of a larger group of people who have made some important decisions. We’ve decided to follow Christ, read the Bible, attend Bible study or prayer groups, listen to wonderful testimonies of what God has done in other people’s lives, and yet think, “What about me?”
What questions do you ask of God?
- God, do you see me?
- Am I doing your will?
- How can I best serve you?
Belonging To Christ In Perspective:If you have a solid understanding of your faith and are a strong Christian, you know better than most that the struggle is real. No one has all the answers all the time. We doubt we pray, hear silence, and get overextended with work and home responsibilities. How can we follow someone we don’t know? We must spend time with God, in His Word, and think about the importance of our role in this life. But it becomes more difficult if our faith is in its infancy.
Perhaps the decision to follow a Christian faith was made for you, and you’ve just followed along. That is what happened to me. Yet, at some point, I had to make the decision as an adult during a time of struggling that I was all in for God. I gave over my life several distinct times in my teens and early twenties. God always showed up, yet I didn’t see it at the time.
You are not alone if you feel like you are floating down a stream without direction. Some days, we are so busy that we can barely make all the meetings we’ve scheduled or complete the list at work or at home in a timely fashion. Perhaps you struggle with feeling the love and presence of God in your life.
So, how can you have a sense of belonging if you feel so unsettled? What I find helpful is searching the scriptures and keeping a prayer journal. This is old news for those who have listened to this podcast, yet it is worth repeating. You and I are part of a bigger picture, and it bears thinking about, examining, and praying that God does indeed see our hearts and our motivations that are all in for Him!
Some of my go-to scriptures:
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Read on air.)
- Ephesians 2:10—(Read on air.)
- Philippians 3:20 (Read on air.)
- Romans 8:1 – (Read on air.)
This is a short yet powerful list, and what is helpful is not only reading these verses but praying these verses. Having a bad day? Philippians 3:20 (read on air). This is not all there is, there is more, and I am so thankful for that! I am so thankful for my faith, which is a gift from God. It is one of those gifts that God answers, “Lord, give me more faith,” “Lord, help me to put you first,” and “Here I am, Lord!”
For the times we feel that we are failing at home or at work, we have Ephesians 2:10 (read on air.) God doesn’t make junk, we are created in Christ, the good works we do are not ours to brag about but truly a gift from loving and following Christ. In each of us, there is a desire to love and be loved, and often we do things hoping someone will notice and realize how great we are; these are tendencies that, as humans, we may possess — but God, and only God, knows our hearts and our motivations.This then brings us to Romans 8:1 (Read on air.) There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus — but let’s read verses 2-5 (Read on air.)
Some say that they accept the Lord as Savior and can live any life they wish, even if it is sinful because they are saved. But here we read that while our flesh may be weak, and Jesus died for us, we must set our minds on Christ and live according to the Holy Spirit. When Jesus died and rose again, He told his apostles He had to leave so that the Holy Spirit could be sent to empower, embolden, and lead them as God intended. This is the Holy Spirit that, if we allow Him to be part of our lives, will empower us with the gifts of the Spirit.
These gifts are powerful, and the enemy doesn’t want you to be emboldened or empowered. Read Ephesians 12.
This faith, this Christian faith, is extremely powerful. I recently learned that many Christians do not vote. Can you imagine if the Christians, as a voting block, those who truly love the Lord Jesus and follow Him, those who belong to God, stood up for what is right? They would stand against the culture of death, against the crimes against humanity, against the powers that be out there—whatever and whoever they are. If Christians stood up and truly led by example, this world would be an amazing place.
I heard recently from Father Rippinger that our lives are what we make them; it can be heaven on earth or hell on earth. This doesn’t mean that we don’t have struggles, but what it does mean is that our struggles are not of this world; our struggles are roadblocks. Praise God in all things. Read Ephesians 3. Then, read Acts 16. One thing that is notable is that in Acts 16, Paul drives out a demon from a girl, which allows her to predict the future. Her masters were upset because they couldn’t make money with her any longer, so they had Paul and Silas thrown in jail on false charges. They were beaten, but at midnight, they began singing praises to God. Acts 16:25 reads, “About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing songs of thanks to God.”
How could they praise God? Because they knew to whom they belonged—to Christ. How would we have reacted if we were Paul and Silas? Tactics are used to scare us and send us hiding in our homes, but Holy Boldness comes when we focus on what is most important, and that is life in Christ.
Today, focus on Jesus as Savior and continue to ask Him into your heart in a deeper way. Ask for Holy Boldness and praise God in all things.
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Testimony of Kathy CoronaKathy Corona’s witness is the transforming love of Christ and how Jesus worked in her life to break the chains and heal her, bringing her to the best version of herself. Kathy is an avid hiker and describes her faith journey as climbing a mountain, starting in the valley and hiking up the mountain, having that mountain top experience and then going down into the valley again.
Kathy is married to Ken, the mother of 5 grown children and grandmother of 8. She grew up in Ohio. She has worked in the banking industry for 33 years. She went to a Life in the Spirit Seminar in 1997 and was baptized in the Holy Spirit, which changed her life! She moved to Florida in 2009 and is the founder and leader of the Healing Prayer Team in her parish.
She has been an active member of the Magnificat Broward Chapter for 10 years, holding many different positions. In 2020 she joined the Magnificat Region 5 Service Team in the Leadership position and is currently the Regional Representative for Region 5. She truly loves the Magnificat Ministry and knows it brings women closer to Jesus Christ, Our Blessed Virgin Mother Mary, and the Holy Spirit.
‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope in the power of the Holy Spirit.’ Romans 15:13
This testimony was given to the Broward County, FL Chapter in August of 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Kathy Corona appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Understanding the impact of God in our lives is an eye-opening experience. In fact, we often miss the real evidence before us in the search for God in all the wrong places. In this podcast, we discuss how faith can impact your
Impact of God In Your Life ~ Episode 315How can we realize God’s impact on our lives? Let’s start with Genesis. Genesis 1:1—In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Without God, we would not exist, and I like to remind myself that my God is the creator of heaven and earth. What a powerful, loving, and all-knowing God I serve!
Thanks to our sponsor, Now Programs, whose philosophy is don’t accommodate, remediate. They have an evidence-based online tutoring program for all ages. Check out NowPrograms.com
Impact of God – A CovenantAnd there is more! God not only created this beautiful world for us to live in, but He actually made us a promise. You probably remember the covenant between God and Abraham because that is the most well-known. Genesis 12:1-3 (read on air).
Now the Lord said[a] to Abram, “Go from your country[b] and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
It continues in the books of Genesis through Genesis 17; this is known as the Abrahamic covenant. It is the beginning of the Nation of God. While most of you listening are not direct descendants of Israel and, like me, we are Gentiles or people of another race, this covenant is for us as well. Yet God made covenants first with Adam and Eve and later with Noah.
Now, bring that down to a kid’s level of understanding.
Can you imagine teaching a group of middle schoolers, grades 6, 7, and 8, about the impact of God in their lives without getting in the weeds or too deep? This is the overall goal of my latest project, volunteering for Sunday School. I often share that we must give of ourselves and listen to God’s voice, but I admit it isn’t easy. It requires sacrifice and discipline—two things we often shy away from!
We show God’s impact in our lives through example, which often includes miraculous occurrences. My example to the kids was seeing a beautiful rainbow. A rainbow is an example or symbol of God’s love for us, and I explained that they should be reminded of this love every time they see one! But it goes deeper than that.
This symbol is actually a covenant between us and God. Genesis 12:1-3
However, although the words “covenant” were not used, God’s first covenant was with Adam and Eve. God created our first parents, yet they sinned. They rebelled against God and were cast out of the garden.
But God is a God of second chances! God’s covenant with Noah after the Flood shows us.
Genesis: 9:6-17 And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: 13 I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. 14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. 16 Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”
17 So God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on the earth.”
This everlasting covenant was a promise from the Almighty never to destroy the earth by flood. God loved the human race so much, even though they rebelled against Him. Do you see a pattern here? Humanity today is in complete rebellion as well. I am working on a podcast about Christian Excellence, and it is a wake-up call for us all to do and be the best we can be and not devolve into sinfulness or mediocrity. These vices, among others, do not bring us joy, just the opposite.
In Matthew 6, we are reminded that God impacts our lives in ways we do not see! How can we become aware of the working of God in our lives? One way is by appreciating and taking to heart His Word:
Matthew 6:33-34
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
In our worry, we forget that God is in control, and our need for Him does not diminish but increases. What would we do without the Lord in our life? Can you really think about this, if not now but at a later time? How would you feel? I would feel hopeless, thinking this: the current situation I am in is all there is, and I would be depressed and despondent. Even if everything is going well, thinking that this life is all we have would not make me happy. Spiritual happiness goes beyond anything we can imagine here on earth, and often, people do not understand it.
There is so much suicide today, and much could be averted if people really understood this world. This life is not all there is; there is more! God touches every area of our lives. Our source is the Word of God, our Bibles, and studying the Word is so important to all of us—not just one time a week or on occasion but every day.
Spiritual happiness is a feeling we get when we read or hear a Bible verse read, or recall a teaching that lifted us up and encouraged us beyond the toil of the everyday. It is the idea that we must look beyond our world and consider a world without strife or anger, without violence, and a world that is pure peace. A peace that surpasses all understanding. Philippians 4:7 – And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. For me, heaven is peace, beauty, and love.
What is the thought of heaven for you? That, after all, is our goal.
Striving for heaven means we walk in justice, pray for God’s grace to do what is right, and expect the best from ourselves. It also means we accept the truth of Scripture.
1 Thessolonians 2:13 – And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
The Bible is the inspired, infallible Word of God. It was written by men who were inspired by God, whether it was in their teachings or actual events that happened. It became more fully understood when Jesus came and preached. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:1-5).
The light does indeed shine in the darkness, and for many years, we had only the oral teachings of godly men and women until we had our own Bibles. Yet, we can see the impact of the Lord in our lives by the teachings at church, a book or blog we read, or even a podcast. In fact, John 1:1-5 came alive for me at one point in my life when I really needed it. It was as if a lightbulb went on, and I realized Jesus (the second person of the Trinity) was with God at the time of the creation of the world. Wow.
Reading the scriptures, looking around the world, and expecting the best, even miracles will change our lives. The greater truth is that while we work, pay our bills, and do our daily chores, we are really bidding our time until the ultimate reward of heaven comes our way. When we spend time with God and pray he opens our eyes.
Our prayer can be something like this, “Lord, how can I recognize your greatness? Lord, what should I do today? Lord help me to serve you in a deeper and more personal way.” Our eyes will be opened, and we will learn how to apply this to our everyday life. This simple thought or notion can transform our lives. God is there for us, not just sometimes but always. We do not rely on ourselves, but we do rely on God’s grace. The impact on our lives is beyond our ability to understand. We can try, but it is astounding when we consider all God does for us.
God gave us himself; he opened the gates of heaven, and how did this happen? By dying for our sins, the ultimate sacrifice for sins He did not commit. Salvation!
John 14:6 — Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
We accept Jesus and follow Him, but that is sometimes where it ends. Take today to thank God for all He has done for you, for the gift of family, for the love that surrounds you each day (God’s love is ever present in our lives), and for salvation, the greatest gift we can receive and a way to enter with Him eternally. May God be blessed now and forever!
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Imitating MaryPatty Mansfield begins her talk by sharing the story of how the Ministry received the name ‘Magnificat’, the mystery of the visitation as the Holy Spirit overshadows the encounter of Mary and her cousin Elizabeth.
Patty has traveled to the Holy Land many times and she shares some of her personal experiences. She focuses on four locations, two in Galilee and two in Jerusalem. as she poses the question, “How can I imitate Mary?” Her first stop is in Cana of Galilee at the wedding feast where she tells the servers, “Do whatever He tells you.’ Mary shows ‘confidence,’ no matter how bleak the experience, we must always have confidence in God. Patty gave another of example of how Jesus said, “Blessed our those who hear the Word of God and keep it,” Jesus valued even more than her physical motherhood, her ‘obedience’ to the Word of God. Those are two ways not only to imitate Mary but to ‘be Mary.’ Patty’s last important point was when Jesus gave his mother to the world, he was giving her a new mission of spiritual motherhood.
Our prophetic call in this suffering world and our suffering Church is to stand and pray for our priests, just as Mary stood at the cross of Jesus. She endured, she humbled herself and stayed hidden. She was a lowly handmaiden who emptied herself for the sake of her son and the new Pentecost.
This talk was given at the ‘Who Do You Say That I Am’ Magnificat International Leaders Conference on October 8, 2021.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Imitating Mary appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
In the middle of our troubles, we can rely on only one person to get us through: God. Today’s podcast is about holy reliance, and we will delve into ways to trust in God even when we feel like things are hopeless!
Holy Reliance ~ Episode 314What is your first reaction when you are struggling? Today, I had a perfect opportunity to practice what I “preach” and failed miserably! Yet, with God, we get a do-over, a chance to change, repent, and sin no more. We have a chance to see the areas where we need work and to make a decision. Changing is difficult, especially because we want our results to be instantaneous. But change takes time, and it is hard work, consistent work, showing up and rolling up our sleeves, and expecting the best from ourselves and those around us.
I volunteer—a lot! I was very good at one point in time at saying, “No!” when asked. But something happened, and I’m not sure what. I often feel overwhelmed and that there is no more to give, yet God keeps showing up and showing me that I am not in charge. He is in charge, and when I give Him my yes and my life, He makes everything work out!
Do you rely on the Lord for everything? Do you ask God for a parking space? Do you pray when you need help with your finances and to pay your bills? When my two youngest were going to college, I prayed that the Lord would provide scholarships, and He did! We can ask God for the mundane as well as an increase in our spiritual life and an increase in our faith.
Holy Reliance – The ProphetScripture talks about prophets and how they did the work of the Lord. Each of them had challenges. Some, like Jonah, were not very good prophets, but one that stood out was Ezekiel. Ezekiel is a prophet, and he is being called by the Lord with a warning. Ezekiel 2:1-2 – He said to me, “Son of man,[a] stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” 2 As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.
In verses 3-4 the God states: I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their ancestors have been in revolt against me to this very day. 4 The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn
He goes on to explain the hardships Ezekiel will have, yet the prophet does not turn his back on God. Why? Because he has Holy Reliance. He knows his strength comes from the Almighty. How can he speak to the Israelites otherwise? Even knowing the hardships, he continues on. Can we do that? Can we persevere even when we know there will be hardships?
Holy Reliance – The PsalmistThe Psalmist knew this as well – in Psalm 121:1-8 (read on air), we read.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Read those verses slowly, pray them, and add them to your prayer journal. Mediate on the words, “Where does my help come from?” Many times, we think our help is from ourselves. We are the ones who get things done. We can only rely on ourselves because others let us down! But that is not true. The next verse tells us, “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Do we realize that God, the Creator of the Universe and everything in it, cares about us in an intimate way? He knows everything about us, and yet we rely on ourselves or perhaps those closest to us. On a practical level, when I work, I rely on the tools I use, the computer, the internet, and a microphone to record. But if the internet goes down or my computer shuts off midstream, I’m stuck, I’m frustrated, and my peace is shaken. It really does not take much. In our lives, we can quit or continue on.
I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve saved one finished recording over another, and I’ve had to re-record a podcast. But I don’t—okay, I try not to let it get me down because I feel that the Lord has something so much better for me to say! I’ll get a thought or an inspiration, some idea that hits me, and I will be glad that I had an opportunity to do it again.
What about spiritually? What about those times we know we’ve let ourselves down or the Lord down? This is where we can repent. We can once again call upon the Lord. We can ask him to help us. And when we do, He shows up in a mighty way! In previous podcasts, we’ve discussed miracles. Do we expect miracles in our daily lives?
Friends, we don’t do it alone – in fact, we can’t do it without the help of God! When you are struggling, turn to Psalm 119:7-8
I will praise you with an upright heart
as I learn your righteous laws.
8 I will obey your decrees;
do not utterly forsake me.
I love that! Do not forsake me, Lord. I need you now more than ever. We must have trust, and this trust must come with a humble heart. Our hearts ache because we fail to see the goodness around us and focus on the hardships or our failures. Even in our failures, we must trust that God has a righteous plan and will turn it around. Think of the book of Ruth. God turned around a tragedy, the death of her husband and her sister’s husband, and she left her home and went with her mother-in-law Naomi to Israel, where she later remarried and had a child. Ruth was the grandmother of King David, which led to the lineage of Jesus Christ. Our King and Savior!
God has a plan for our lives. What can we do? We can trust. We can rely on Him, we can ask God to give us more of Him and we can ask for an abundance of faith and strength to traits we can always use in our lives. Amen~
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Let’s chat a minuteHow are things in your life going? We are well into school year mode around here. And apparently, it is beginning to cool off in some parts of the country. Not where I live. However, I am walking outside rather than on the treadmill at the gym some days. I try to go early when it’s only in the low 80’s. I guess you can say it is cooler than 87° 0r 90 °.
I looked up saints for women who do too much. Sometimes we do too much because we want to be helpful; other times situations occur that need our time and attention and we wind up with too much to do. I saw a few suggestions here and I think I’ll choose St. Rita as the best option. She had great rials but did not waver from her faith.
HappinessI think happiness, or rather, the desire to be happy, is sometimes looked down upon in the spiritual life. We want joy, which is more than happiness. Joy lasts longer than simple happiness.
I’m going to pose a different thought. What if more happiness leads to joy?
A friend of mine suggested this topic. She offers this as things that make her happy: life, sharing faith, Church, ministry, time with family and friends, and nature. She then thought more about the spiritual life and added quiet time to pray, write, be still, and meditate.
I think knowing what makes us happy is a good thing. A quick list of what makes me happy: reading, sewing, walks outside, bike rides, my grandchildren, deep conversations, family.
But what about joyJoy lasts beyond the event or interaction. Happiness is fleeting. Really? Let me pose this scenario: it’s my birthday and my son brings over my favorite spinach dish with gluten-free toast for brunch. I will eat it and enjoy it, along with the company of family. It brings me both joy and happiness. It tastes amazing, I am with my family and I appreciate the time and effort he took to cook for me. When I look back on the event, I have joy knowing I raised a thoughtful son.
When we repeat interactions that bring us happiness we open ourselves up to joy. It helps us see the world in a better light, focusing on what is true, good and beautiful, it helps us to be grateful.
This week’s challengeI bet you can guess this one: make a list of what makes you happy and do a few of them. If you are local, and happiness is a good cup of coffee and conversation, call me. I’m in. I think you will find yourself with a bit more joy in your life.
Let’s talk about having me come to your parish.
The post What makes you happy? appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Penny From Heaven ~ Episode 252When you find a penny, what do you do? I call it a gift, a penny from heaven. It is something little, often ignored and stepped over but valued nonetheless. In this episode, Felice shares her finds and treasures that are inspirations from the Lord.
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What do you do when you see a penny lying on the ground? Most of us walk over it and ignore the coin. We do this for many reasons, and all of them are valid. It is an insignificant amount; it is dirty, we don’t want to bend down to pick it up, and so on.
I was right there with you for quite some time. But then something changed. I decided that each penny signified a gift from God. While it may hold little value in the monetary sense, it is, after all, the smallest coin we have; it represents the gifts that God has in store for me. Each penny is a blessing; each penny is a reminder that God knows me and sees me. He sees all of me, and I am important in His eyes.
Do you see a penny from heaven as a blessing?This is one of those podcasts where I wish we were together because I imagine some of you are like me; you stop and pick up that penny or that coin. You recognize it for what it is – not for the monetary value, but for the gift. It is a blessing, you happened upon it, and it has value in your eyes.
It reminds me of the widow’s mite, and we read about it in Luke 21:1-4 [Read on air.]
Just as the widow gave her savings, what was described in her poverty, to the Lord, I, too, set aside this money for the Lord. I have areas throughout my home set up like little prayer corners and plaques proclaiming scripture verses, and basically, some have called my home a mini-shrine. It’s not, but it is all a matter of perspective. Walking by a sign or a prayer corner reminds me to pray or consider what the Lord has done for me. One particular shelf above my computer has a small depiction of Jesus and Joseph. Jesus is seated on a bench, animated with his hand outstretched, and Joseph listens to him in rapt attention. The workbench and work are briefly forgotten as Joseph is focused on the Lord. I set up a small container where I place any pennies I find. I feel that these gifts are given to me, but then I can turn around and donate it back. After some time, these coins add up, and I donate them to charity.
This is a visual sign of an invisible truth. Faith is invisible but has such an impact on our lives. I know some people think that having a statue, a cross, or even a picture depicting a religious scene is idolatry which the old testament warns us about. And, if I had a statue of Baal or Budda, I would agree with you, but I don’t.
I believe in the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob, the lineage of David and Jesus, the true Lord and Messiah. My God is a God of infinite love and mercy. I want reminders of Bible verses and religious scenes.
Maybe picking up pennies seems silly to you. But it is a small gesture and reminds me about so things that are spiritually important. My shortlist would include the following:
- A reminder not to take anything in life for granted.
- Acknowledgment that even a penny can symbolize something greater
- The understanding that value is in the eyes of the beholder
- Remembering that the value placed by material things in our world is nothing compared to that of heaven
- A reminder not to ignore the simple things in my life
Maybe your list looks different, and I have a much longer list, but the purpose here is to give you the overall idea–which is looking at your day, each day, and seeing the gift that God has for you. No matter what happens, we can turn to the Lord and thank Him. What is that penny you have stepped over and ignored in your life? What is it that seems insignificant but holds bigger value?
I feel blessed in many ways, not because I live in a castle, am royalty, or am a multi-billionaire. I am blessed because my eyes have been opened like Saul on the road to Damascus, and the Lord has called me by name.
In Acts 9:1-20 We read the entire account of Saul – but here is the first part (Read on air).
We later read in the following verses that Ananais also receives a vision from the Lord, and he says, “Here I am, Lord.” The Lord tells him specifically where to go and that he will find Saul of Tarsus. Ananias knows how he is – Saul has been harming the Christians in Jerusalem, and he reminds the Lord of this. Let me stop here – doesn’t that strike you as ironic? Here is a man with a vision from God; he is conversing with the Lord, yet he is reminding him of something that the Lord already knows!
God is so patient with us, isn’t he?
The Lord says to him, in verses 15-16 (Read on air.)
I am sure Ananias was fearful, but he went, laid hands on him, saying verses 17-20 (Read On Air.)
Saul thought he was doing the right thing, he thought he was doing the will of God, but God showed him that he wasn’t and purged him into the three days of darkness. It was a false belief – which makes me think, what false beliefs do I harbor that I need to dispel? Is it simple, like the value of finding a coin on the ground, or is it deeper in understanding that the God we serve is loving and kind but also righteous?
God restores our belief daily if we let him. Your challenge this week is to look at those little things as gifts from heaven, whether it is a penny found or something more!
The post Penny From Heaven (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
If your life needs transformation, consider reading the Book of Ruth, where God powerfully transforms each character and wants to do the same for you. God’s faithfulness can bring triumph out of tragedies, restoration from waywardness, and blessing out of loss. Join us oday as we conclude our series on the Book of Ruth..
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Transformed by God’s Grace Episode #7Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. Today, we will cover these points.
The Family* The beautiful, gracious, and even joyous Naomi, according to the meaning of her name suffers great loss. (Ruth 1-3) * Elimelech and family left Bethlehem, meaning house of bread to find more bread during the famine. * Naomi’s husband died and the two sons married Moabite wives – Orpah and Ruth. * They lived in Moab about ten years, and both sons died. * In Ruth 1:16, Ruth made a declaration of loyalty to Naomi and the God of Israel -it changed her life forever.
Naomi Becomes Mara but returns to Naomi* Naomi said, “Do not call me Naomi [pleasant, gracious, joyous]. Call me Mara [bitter], for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. 21 I went away full, and the Lord has brought me back empty…the Lord has afflicted me, and the Almighty has brought calamity upon me?” (Ruth 1: 19) * Ruth returned home after gleaning in Boaz’ fields with 30 pounds of grain. * Naomi praises and blesses the Lord again; joy returns. * Naomi sees God’s footsteps in their lives: Boaz to become the kinsman redeemer and agrees to marry Ruth and become her kinsman redeemer.
Boaz, a Messianic Type of Christ* Boaz’s loving-kindness shadows God’s love sent to us in Jesus Christ. * As the kinsman redeemer, Boaz was a Christ-like figure.
Ruth, the “Worthy Woman”* Boaz described Ruth as one known as a “worthy woman” among the people. (Ruth 3:11) * These exact words appear in Proverbs 31: 10-31. * She is foremost “a woman who fears the Lord” and “to be praised” (v. 30). * Boaz, her husband, was “known in the city gates when he sits among the elders in the land” (v. 23). * “Her children rise and bless her; her husband too, her husband also, he praises her” (v. 28), as seen in the record of Matthew 1: 5 where she will be praised and remembered forever as a great-grandmother of King David and member of Christ’s lineage.
The Marriage, the Lineage of David and Jesus Christ* JOY multiplies for Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz as the town’s women pray a blessing over their lives and new life Obed (Ruth 4). * Boaz and Ruth are in the lineage of David (Ruth 4: 18-22) and of Jesus (Matthew 1). * Once a prostitute and Canaanite, Boaz’s mother was Rahab, who helped Joshua’s spies.
Blessings* Blessing Prayers are themes of Ruth, and there are seven recorded blessings. * Blessings are one of five types of prayer : 1) blessing or adoration, 2) petition, 3) intercession, 4) thanksgiving, and 5) praise . * A blessing for another proclaims God’s goodness, kindness, and power and it includes a petition asking God to share His goodness, power, compassion, and favor to change a situation. * Ruth includes blessings of Naomi praising God and asking for the daughters-in-law, Boaz blessing and praying for Ruth, the neighbors blessing and praying for Naomi, Ruth Boaz and Obed (Ruth 1: 17, 2:4, 12; 2:19–20; 3:10, 4:11-12, 14).
God is the HERO of RUTH!* Ultimately, God is the hero of the Book of Ruth. * God directs each detail and composes everything according to His divine purpose. * God’s grace leads us beyond the short span of our lives- He blesses us in our earthly lives and uses us to impact our immediate sphere and generation, as well as those in the generations to come. * Let’s remember to look to God in impossible situations and allow him to impact the next generation through our witness and loving-kindness.
LinksSeven Part Series Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7 (This podcast)
Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study accompanying each podcast series: 1) Esther for This Time, 2) Seek & Find Joy, 3) Joyful & Battle-ready (Dressing in the Armor of God), 4)Nehemiah0 Rebuilding Hope & Joy, 5) Ruth – Finding Joy in Tough Times and 6) A Joyous Advent. Read more (here) on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study.
- CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: com
- Check out more podcasts here!
Find my books:* + Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear + Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy + Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Transformed By God’s Grace ~ Ruth #7 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
What do you believe? Have you taken the time to stop and reflect on your faith? Today, we will discuss ways to increase your faith and spend time with God.
Reflect On Your Faith – 313Friends of mine attended an international conference and shared their experiences with me. There was such joy and hope expressed not only in the experience and the speakers they heard but also in how motivated they were to spread the good news to others. This fire, if you will, the fire that comes from the Holy Spirit, is what we all need. We need a boost from time to time and encouragement. We need that shot in the arm to get going and to spread God’s love for others. This can happen to you when you take the time to reflect on your faith. Why should we?
Thanks to our sponsor, CTMath.com
Romans 8:30-32: What then shall we say to this? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, will he not also give us all things with him? 3
Because of who we are in Christ, we are called to speak to anyone who will listen about His love and goodness, yet if we don’t take the time to reflect on our faith, it is difficult, at best, to know what we believe. What do you believe? Do you know? When was the last time you read a book of faith or studied the scriptures? Do you have time set aside for prayer?
Maybe you have not prayed because what you believe is not crystal clear. How can we worship a God we don’t know? How can we worship a God we can not see? How can we worship when we feel empty inside? The answer is you can not worship a God you don’t know and can’t see. And, if you are in the middle of a life crisis, then it will seem more difficult because we as humans tend to blame God, even if our faith in God is weak! Do you know someone who has abandoned their Christian faith because they blame God for their trials and for unanswered prayer?
Listen, we’ve all been there; if you have not doubted God or had a chink in your armor of faith, you have not lived long. Everyone has thoughts that I attribute to the evil one. These thoughts are not from the Almighty, let me tell you! The thoughts are something like this: God doesn’t care about you, God isn’t real, and you are wasting your time. Or even worse, Where is the God that you believed in? He has let you down. No, God never lets us down, but by the free will God has given us, we have a choice to make. Do we follow Him or not? Do we believe or not? Do we continue to worship when we don’t feel like it, or not?
God does not force His will upon us. He did not create us as puppets with Him pulling the strings. No. He gave us a heart and soul, a spirit to worship or not, and a hunger in each one of us for more. But why do we hunger and thirst without it ever being quenched? God created us to know, love, and serve Him because how could we not serve the one who gave us so much?
And here is the bottom line: Faith is a gift—yes, that’s right, a gift. Faith is a gift given to us by the Almighty God, and while it begins with a feeling, it involves so much more. It involves your free will—your free will to continue to love and serve God when you don’t feel like it.
Look up the Nicene Creed (Council 325) and the Apostles Creed. The Nicene Creed is believed to be the oldest creed. Read on air.
What do you believe? Reflect on your faith. Ask the Lord to increase your faith.
Prayer is a conversation with God; it is praying, but it also takes time to listen—spend some time in quiet. This means being present and aware of God’s love for you, meditating on this—God does love you, and you are here for a reason. Last week, the topic was belonging. We are His people, and He is our God. Podcast here.
- Spend time in prayer and speak to the Lord.
- Spend time in quiet, listen.
- Read scripture.
- Journal
- Praise God, thank Him for everything.
Dear friends, I pray your faith is increased. In this world, there is a need for people who are on fire for the Lord. Christians need to help those who are suffering, and one way we can do this is by having the love of God within our own hearts and pouring our love into others. Amen!
The post Stop. Pause. Reflect on Your Faith appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
On July 17 to 21, we celebrated the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Indiana. I was able to go with my husband and a friend. It was an amazing time, filled with learning, prayer, music, excellent talks, and seeing friends.
A few highlights:standing outside our hotel, when all of a sudden, the people I know from CatholicMom.com are walking by and Allison Gingras, calls out, “Deanna, is that you?’
Praying in Adoration every night in a stadium with 50,000 Catholics and the only sound was the hum of the air conditioner running.
Also, the priests who led us in Adoration were amazing. The reverence and awe for Jesus was present on their faces.
Hearing Fr. Boniface Hicks pray the Litany of Healing and Repentance in the Eucharist.
Matt Maher leading us in worship on Saturday night.
And the closing Mass with Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle
All of this was amazing and gave me a renewed sense of mission and purpose.
What did we do all day?Each day we went to Mass at Lucas Oil Stadium. Then we went to a specific track for 3 days. John and I went to the Renewal sessions geared toward those in ministry. And those are the takeaways I want to discuss today.
Day 1, Danielle Brown from the USCCBInstead of working in ministry, first pray, fast, and be purified.
Activities in ministry can become false idols.
Ministry not nailed to the cross will be blown away at the first storm.
Day 2, Damon OwensGod reveals things to us that are delightful and painful.
No one likes healing, but we like to be healed.
Holiness is being fully human.
Sara KaczmarekWork with God, not for him.
Find God in the quiet and stillness
Day 3, Julianne Stanz, author with Loyola PressBread that does not rest does not rise and neither can you.
Thanks to all who listen, comment, share it with friends and leave reviews.
If you’d like to have me speak at your parish or group, you can use this link!
The post Rest and Renewal, Eucharistic Congress 2024 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The idea of belonging, being wanted, and having someone who cares for us is a fundamental need in all humans. It isn’t a case of losing your identity but more of feeling loved and secure. In this podcast, we will discuss the importance of understanding where our trust lies and to whom we belong.
Belonging To God – Episode 312If you are feeling down today, feeling that no one cares or that God does not hear you, feeling that you are being ignored, or that everything you planned and hoped for has fallen apart, then this podcast will turn that around. Writing and recording this podcast has helped me tremendously after a very trying week. And it started today. I heard a scripture that really touched me, and the more I thought about it, the more I realized I belonged to God. No, really, I. Belong. To God.
This isn’t a novel idea or truth. You probably think that as a Christian who has professed a belief in Jesus Christ, it is a simplistic statement to make. And you may be correct. Yet, we walk around carrying the burdens of the world on our shoulders, and if we remembered that we belong to God, how much easier this load would be. The scripture I want to share is one I’ve heard so many times, but this time, it made me feel special. We don’t often walk around, and the truth is, we never walk around saying how special we are or how special we feel. It is not the way of humility, right? But God, in His Word, often makes us feel special. I pray that God opens your heart and shows you how special you really are in His eyes!
Belonging To God – That Means You.It is a passage in Ezekiel. I want to read it to you, but I’d like you to read it yourself, perhaps later, and meditate on the words. Ezekiel 36:26-28 (read on air).
Let me read the last half of the last line again: “You shall be my people, and I will be your God.” Friends, God has called you and asked that you be His people. And, in return, He gives us Himself. That is so shocking, and yet it should not surprise us that the God of the universe cares intimately about you, all of you. He wants you to understand that you have been called by name.
- He has called us by name, and we read this in Isaiah 43:1:
- He knows the number of hairs on our head: Matthew 10:30:
- He has given us everything and paid the ultimate sacrifice: John 3:16:
How does this make you feel? Do you feel special yet? Well, let’s try this, let’s try praising God:
Psalm 147:1-6
How about Exodus 15:2: Read on air.
God is our salvation, and He is our God, and He is deserving of all of my praise. This is the least we can offer our Lord and Savior, yet there is so much more He is willing to give to each of us.
Psalm 63:11 states (read on air)
When we feel like no one cares, please remember this Psalm. God’s constant love is there for us, and if we praise Him, we will remember this truth and how much better our life will become.
Another verse I want to share with you is Psalm 145:9 (read on air). His tender mercies! Listen to those words and let them penetrate your heart.
and the last verse – Isaiah 41:13-
We are not to fear, we belong to the Lord, he has our hand in His, he is there for use, and he will come to your aid, in fact He has never left you and has always been by your side. Dear friends, remember these words, cherish them, and know that God is real and you belong to him.
The post Belonging To God appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Boaz Marries Ruth
Do you need restoration or turnarounds in pain, sorrow, or emptiness, look to the Book of Ruth. Join the podcast today as the Book of Ruth reveals how God offers to rescue, deliver, and restore you.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Final Blessings and Reversals Episode #6Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. Today we cover these points:
Problem: Another Redeemer Ruth asked Boaz to initiate the Levirate Marriage* legal procedure and become her husband. * In reply, Boaz blessed Ruth and told her he would all that she asked * Another was closer kin and had the right to redeem her.
The City Gate (Ruth 4: 1-6) The City Gate* (Ruth 4:1) was the business district in ancient Israel * .Boaz was wise in his approach with the possible other kin and “goel” * The goel refused when he heard the stipulation that he must marry Ruth the Moabitess. * He turned his right over to Boaz.
The Legal Transaction (Ruth 4: 7-10)* Boaz chose 10 men to witness his conversation and exchange of a sandal. * Boaz agrees to marry Ruth and claim the land to maintain the Elimelech – Mahlon name on the inheritance. * Elimelech’s family name is alive in the community for all generations.
The Blessings (Ruth 4: 11-14)* The sixth blessing is a powerful prayer spoken by the elders for Boaz and Ruth – from the Bible. * Rachel and Leah were the mothers to the twelve sons or leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel. * Tamar has a levirate marriage too; the witnesses prayed for Ruth to have a son and be famous in Israel. * In the final blessing, Naomi receives kin and a grandson.
Personal Application What impacts you most from Ruth 4? 1. God is a God of Reversals. He can do miracles. You too can have a reversal in circumstances. If you need one, ask the Lord in prayer, Stay faithful. Remember his promises, especially Ephesians 3:20 2. God is a Redeemer. He not only reverses situations, but He redeems them. A redeemer is one who rescues, saves, restores and delivers. Elimelech’s name has been redeemed. His land has been redeemed; the family name has been restored in Bethlehem. Ruth is no longer called a widowed Moabitess from a pagan culture, she is has become the wife of Boaz. She is no longer a barren woman, she is a mother. So if you need a redeemer for your life, call on Jesus. He will rescue, deliver and restore you. Remember: Jeremiah 30:17 and Colossians 1: 13-14.*
LinksSeven Part Series Ruth: Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7
Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one. Read more (here) on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study.
- CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Find my books:
- Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear
- Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy
- Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Final Blessings and Reversals ~ Ruth #6 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
SuscipeThis prayer is from St. Ignatius of Loyola. It appears in week four of his Spiritual Exercises. Suscipe means “receive” in Latin.
Why pray this prayer?It helps us surrender all the “shoulds’ in our lives to God. We ask for his grace and strength to live our lives in the way it best serves him.
More information on the prayerThe Suscipe
An Expanded Version of the Suscipe
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How are you doing? Are you finding hope in our hurting world? As Christians, we know where our hope is, right? It is in the Lord. Yet, we often struggle to find hope when we can only think about the negative things affecting our world and life.
Christians – Finding Hope ~ Episode 311If I had to make a list of my top ten scripture verses, Jeremiah 29:11 would be at the top. (Read on air). I think I love this verse so much because it gives me hope. My favorite parts deal with safety (not to harm you) and plans to give you hope and a future. Today, we live in a society with at least fifty percent that has turned its back on the God I serve, a Christian God.
Some people, some with faith and others without faith, don’t want to see Christians happy, prospering, or unified (see last week’s Christian Unity podcast link here). I have watched some horrifying short videos lately, and what I heard made me fearful. So, what did I do? I took authority in the Name of Jesus and asked the Lord to place my fear at the foot of His cross because perfect love casts out all fear! 1 John 4:18 (Read on air.)
Finding Hope:Our hope is in Christ; it is not in what might happen when we leave our homes, cross the street, or clean our homes. Our hope is in Christ and Him alone. I must focus on Him when I am worried about our world and the state of our economy, but I can also pray and encourage you in the same way. Today, I dropped my prescription sunglasses, and they scratched. Guess where? That’s correct. Right across my eye, I am looking straight. So, I picked them up and praised God. I had them repaired not too long ago, and they were expensive, like everything is today. But I was thankful because I chose to be. There is a list of reasons why I could be thankful, but choosing to be thankful is a decision I can make, and it gave me hope.
This does not diminish the fact that I have to look through a scratched lens, but I’ve chosen to praise God even for the hurtful, costly, and annoying things in my life. This gives me hope, and I pray it encourages you to hope in the face of hardships and trials.
Hope without Struggline:At Christmas time, we have family time, and usually, I have an activity that goes along with something I’ve prayed about. This year, the theme was Fruits of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23: (Read on air.)
Each person selected a word that I had upside down and hidden. In other words, they didn’t know the words they would receive. Two people received the word “hope.” Two people received the word “peace.” Two people use the word “love,” and one person uses the word “joy.”
I received the word peace for this year, and I really need it, and I pray the Lord gives it to me in abundance! But I also crave hope. Without hope, there is no tomorrow. That may be a bit melodramatic, but there is truth in that statement. We spiral downward when we believe things will not get better or we feel hopeless. There is hope in Christ and against all of the negativity bombarding us through the airwaves. You can turn off the television and avoid the news, only to receive it in a digest form on your phone or hear it from your neighbor!
What Causes Hopelessness?What causes hopelessness? So many things! But when hopelessness becomes a problem, it is when we feel that no one cares and we are all alone. Just know I care, and you are not alone! God hears us, whether the answer is no or not. We may feel powerless and oppressed in our situations, but we know it is only for a short time. There is hope that things will change. Maybe not for the better quickly, but change it will. Some days, I feel I transfer one set of problems to another. But I soon realized the solution was right in front of me, and I did not see it.
When we are in the midst of hardship or trial, we look for a way out without looking at our situation and addressing our needs one at a time. Ask questions like this:
- Am I safe?
- Do I need to make any decisions right now?
- Do I have the time I need to pray and offer it to the Lord?
I’m a get-it-done-right this-minute kind of person. If I have something to do, I feel it is hanging right out there and out of reach, and if I do not address it, it bothers me. Yet, that is something of my own making. That is why the three things I listed above and the questions I can ask are so important. It makes me think and consider if I need to address the problem, chore, or item on my to-do list this second. Sometimes, the day gets away from me, and I feel hopeless because what I wanted to accomplish was left undone. This is where I need to regroup, see if there is time to address this need, and go forward. There is always hope!
Always Hope:The truth is our hope does not come from a person or thing. It does not come from a perfectly completed to-do list. Our hope does not even come from a sterling credit score or money in the bank. Our hope only comes from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. And if we remember this, we will truly be on the right track!
The saying “hope springs eternal” is defined as “People always hope for the best, even in the face of adversity. This saying is from “An Essay on Man,” by Alexander Pope. And there is truth to that statement. If there is no adversity, there is no victory! We learned that from the cross. Jesus broke the bonds of death with his life and resurrection. We love the Christmas story, the Nativity of the birth of Jesus. We love Easter with the focus on the Resurrection. But what most of us forget is there was suffering, an inhuman amount of suffering, in between those two joyful times.
Take the time to create a list of scripture verses for times when you need encouragement that there is hope. Place Jeremiah 29:11 at the top of the list (it is on mine!). Then, spend some time in prayer, giving thanks to the Lord for everything, even those things that we can not control.
The post Finding Hope appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Ruth #5-Finding Joy in Tough Times-Waiting in Peace
Is waiting in peace for God to answer a prayer difficult? It can be challenging for every Christian. Join the podcast today as the Book of Ruth shows us that God is at work even when we don’t see the answers yet, so we can His rest in peace.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Waiting in Peace Episode #5Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. Today, we will cover these points:
Wait Time* Time has passed between Chapters two and Chapter three of Ruth—between two and three months. * Waiting often prepares our hearts to what’s ahead in life. * Time and love prepared Naomi and Ruth for God’s blessing and challenges that were about to come.
Wash and Anoint Yourself (Ruth 3: 1-5)* Naomi wants a husband and home life for Ruth. * She reminds Ruth that Boaz is the kinsman and landowner who just happens to be winnowing barley that night. * Naomi gives Ruth four instructions and Ruth obeys. * Uncovering his feet, was signaling Ruth wants to be his wife and he, her kinsman redeemer!
Boaz was Startled! (Ruth 3: 6-13) Boaz was startled to find a woman lying at his feet. * By asking him to spread his cloak over her, Ruth was repeating Boaz’s words of Ruth 2 when he blessed her for seeking refuge under the wings or cloak of God. * In Ezekiel 16:8, God even uses the same phrase saying he will spread his cloak over Israel in covenant love to protect the nation and make the nation his forever* just like the covenant commitment in a marriage. * Boaz says he will marry her and spread his cloak (meaning provision, protection and warmth) over her; everyone in the village knows she is a worthy woman (in Hebrew word haill) which means honorable, noble and excellent.
Problem: Another Redeemer * Boaz agrees to marry Ruth but says a closer kinsmen exists who legally has the first opportunity to marry her and claim the land of Elimelech that might have gone to Mahlon. * Boaz likely had been considering his obligation – he knew he was in line to be the kinsman-redeemer.
Provision and More
- Boaz, in his display of hesed love, gives Ruth 60 pounds of Barley to take back to Naomi.
- Naomi would understand the gift of barley to mean Boaz was giving his word in agreement with God’s laws.
- She said to Ruth, wait my daughter, let your heart be peaceful, you can count on Boaz to work this out.
Personal ApplicationWhat impacts you most from Ruth 3?
- Surrender & Trust. At one point on the threshing floor, Ruth came to complete trust and complete surrender to God and his laws. She did everything she knew to do and now would trust the rest to God. Proverbs 3: 5-6 reminds of the same: Proverbs 3: 5-6 reminds us we can count on God. Surrender you needs to him and trust he is leading you as you walk forward.
- Wait in Peace, God is at Work. Remember that while waiting for God to answer but not seeing answers yet, God is still at work. We can pray with Psalm 27: 13-14 that reminds us God will answer, He is at work while we wait. Our Savior Jesus will “settle the matter for us” always. Even if you feel empty like Naomi did, wait on God and His son Jesus. You will see that He will settle the matters for you. Proverbs 16: 3 also assures us of this. Repeat these Scriptures daily, declare them to yourself and pray them.
LinksSeven Part Series Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7
Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one. Read more (here) on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study.
- CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Find my books:
- Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear
- Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy
- Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Waiting in Peace ~ Ruth #5 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Christian Unity ~ Uniting God’s PeopleEpisode 310: Exploring Christian Unity based on Ephesians 4:1-6
How can we have Christian unity when we can’t even get along with those we live with and love? The same goes for world peace. How can we expect World Peace when we argue with our spouse or friends? If we can’t get along with those we like, how can we find common ground among various nations? Our world is falling apart, friends. Right before our eyes, today is the day to pray like never before.
Thanks to CTCMath.com for sponsoring this episode. CTC is a math curriculum found online for grades K-12.
Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. (Psalm 118:24) So we begin with praise, rejoicing in the day and giving God all the glory. As I’ve shared many times on this podcast, we praise God and thank Him even in the midst of trial and adversity. Things are falling apart all around us, and we praise God. One of the reasons is because, yes, God is worthy of praise. The other is because it helps remind us that we are not in this alone. Even if you are driving by yourself, taking a walk, or at your home alone, God is with you.
Once we have praised God, we put on God’s armor. Ephesians 6:10-18. Don’t just read it, pray it. Slowly and with meaning. We ask the Lord for protection against evil one. Why? Because he is the disrupter and the one who causes the division. This began in the Garden and continues today.
Christian Unity Starts Here:
Where does Christian unity begin? It begins with me—right here, right now. It doesn’t start with my neighbor, my friend, or my spouse. I don’t stop to pick up the phone and say, “Hey, you really need to get with it and be united.” It won’t work. For there to be peace, it starts with me. Mother Teresa famously said this about peace: “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.”
So, it starts with me: what can I do and how can I do it?
A friend posted an article from a website, and I am posting the link here. The topic is the importance of Christian Unity. It goes on to explain the importance of doing our part (with the help of the Holy Spirit) to not be the cause of division, which means to guard us against temptation, guarding our mouths and what we say, and, more importantly, your social media posts.
When I read the title of the article, I was convicted to watch my words, especially among my family and friends.
As I write this, we are currently in an election cycle, and it can be horrible to read what people say and watch neighbors and friends become enemies. I lost friends during the last election cycle because I would not engage in conversation or be swayed by the beliefs of those who contacted me. They “unfriended” me on Facebook which truthfully hurt my feelings tremendously. In retrospect, while I had many champions for my cause, and the majority of friends agreed with me, I found that those who did not were steeped in a way of thinking I could not identify or understand. I am steeped in prayer this election cycle, making an effort to set aside time daily for our country and the disunity. And for the disunity in our world as well, with countless wars!
Jesus wants us united, yet He is well aware that the evil one is trying to wreck our lives. We read of this in
Ephesians 4:1-6 (read on air).
We are called to be “forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” How can we do this? There is only one way, with an infilling and an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. My prayer is something like this, “Dear Holy Spirit, come and fill me with to overflowing with your love, your peace, and your joy. Please fill me with love for my children and my spouse (name anyone close to you here). Fill me with love and compassion for those who I don’t like, and I don’t care to know. Help me to be faithful to you, my Lord, and help me never to be parted from unity with You. Holy Spirit, come.”
Create your own prayer or version of asking the Holy Spirit for help bringing unity and peace to your life and the lives of others.
The only way for us to have Christian unity is to pray and ask God for a deeper desire for peace in our hearts. Another thing the article said that resonated with me was to ask the Lord to keep us away from “every temptation of the enemy to rip us apart.” These are very wise words. We must avoid the temptation to get in the last word or to say something that might be considered funny yet hurtful. We must rally the troops and let your family and friends know what you are doing. This is not bragging (oh, look at me praying here); this is explaining a way of thinking that I believe most Christians will rally around and unite.
God loves us; He loves this fallen humanity of which we are a part, and He knows our needs before we even ask. Yet ask we must today. Begin now. Ask the Lord for peace and unity, and let it begin with me. May you be blessed now and forever.
The post Christian Unity appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Ruth Gleaning in the Fields. Painting by James Tissot, 1896
Are you starting over? Is it a new job, a new home or hometown, a new relationship, or a new phase in life? We all face times of change and even upheaval, but it’s a perfect time to return to God and prayer, forgive the past, and look for God to go before you. Join the podcast today as the Book of Ruth shows how to start over and notice God’s footsteps walking ahead of you.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Starting Over & Noticing God’s Footsteps Episode #4Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. Today, we will cover these points:
Ruth Gleans Forward (Ruth 2: 14-16)* Working in the fields was strenuous and hazardous(v. 9) but Ruth gleaned forward. * Ruth did not look back or hold on to the past. She gleaned forward. * She was not stymied by bitterness or self-pity. * With Boaz’s instructions, Ruth’s first day of gleaning was very successful!
Naomi’s Surprise & Bitterness Surrendered (Ruth 2: 17-19)* Ruth beat out an ephah (eefuh) of barley– hard work! * Ruth showed Naomi 30 pounds (5 ½ gallons) of Barley * Naomi notices God’s Footprints of guidance and blessings.
Changed Outlook – Our Nearest Kin (Ruth 2: 20-23)* Now Naomi has a change of mind and heart. * She is confident God has not forsaken them. * Boaz is the Goel (Deuteronomy 25: 5-10) – the closest male relative, the kinsman redeemer
Ruth Gleans for Three Months (Ruth 2: 23) Ruth gleaned in Boaz’s fields for Barley & Wheat Harvest, which lasted three months. * A blessing can be a simple prayer asking God to share his loving kindness, guidance, and favor on another. * The Jewish Midrash “A widow or a female convert must wait three months before marrying to make sure she was not pregnant.”I Will Go Where You Go*
Personal Reflection & ApplicationWhat impacts you most from Ruth 2: 14-23?
- Start Over & Give God Your Bitterness & Receive His Joy. Do you feel bitter about anything? If left to fester, disappointment, grief, unforgiveness, and unresolved anger can lead to bitterness. Bitterness is a joy-zapper and will stop any new beginning. When life seems unfair, we are prone to turn from God and allow bitterness to take hold. Instead, ask the Lord where you have any bitterness or unforgiveness, then confess it and ask the Lord for his glorious grace to dispense bitterness and start over. (You likely need to forgive yourself or another person or God). Only by God’s glorious grace can you go forward. Naomi told her friends to call her Mara – the Bitter one. But she returned to God and the faith community. Declaring her bitterness was a confession at this time. She started over. Now, she notices God’s footsteps and you can sense the joy that come across her face. Remember Ephesians 4: 31-32 and pray Psalm 51:10.
- Look for God’s Footsteps. God is with you. He is for you. He is guiding you. In Ruth 1: 20, she said that God made her life bitter and sent her trouble. But in Ruth 2: 20, she notices God’s footsteps ahead of them and how he provided abundantly for them via Boaz, so she exclaimed. “The Lord always keeps his promises to the living and the dead.” (Good News Translation). Do you need a change of heart? Ask God to help you see his footsteps in your life. He will show you how HE is guiding you and showering you with his loving kindness. Memorize and pray Lamentations 3:22-23.
LinksSeven Part Series Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7
- Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study with your friends. It’s free, and I will send you a study guide for discussion and Scripture reflection that accompanies each podcast.
- Click here to read about hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Find my books:
- Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear
- Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy
- Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Starting Over & Noticing God’s Footsteps ~ Ruth #4 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Family Transformed – Episode 217Are you ready for a transformation within your own family? How about a challenge for a transformed family? This is a follow-up to the last episode of Heart Transformed
Thanks to our sponsor, CTC Math a wonderful math curriculum for kids K-12
Why is it we can see the faults in other people so much easier than we can see the faults in ourselves? Did you know when we focus on ourselves first (the opposite of what we have been taught), and get our own spiritual house in order, the rest of the family will see the change and want to be a part of what you have? If you didn’t catch the last episode, Heart Transformed be sure to check it out.
St. Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:1-4 [ Read on air]
When our family is at peace, when we are serving the Lord as a group, we will all get along so much better. I taught my children that God put us together as a family on purpose. There are no mistakes in Lord’s plan for family life. Each person was selected to be together because of what they could learn from each other. It is a beautiful thing when it works the way God designed. If we focus on the things above we are so much happier.
The best teacher is the example we set If we want our family to read the Bible, we need to read the Bible. If we want our family to pray, we need to lead in prayer. Years ago I wanted my husband to be the spiritual leader of our home, and he is in so many ways, but not in the way I wanted him to be. I wanted him to lead the Bible studies and the prayer sessions we had as a family and while he contributed to these, he is not a leader. So we became co-leaders, I would initiate the studies and he and I would contribute to the discussion. We can become upset or bitter because things do not go our way rather than take on the leadership ourselves if that is what God leads us to do. Don’t box yourself in with your own ideas, but rather what works best for your family. Never, never compare your family to other families. That will surely set you up for failure. Many people put up a good front when everything is falling apart. So don’t judge by exteriors.
Here are some simple things to do, for yourself if you do not have a young family and with a family, if you do:
- Start each day by giving thanks. By doing this we are giving God all the glory (Colossians 4:4 – When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you will also be revealed with him in glory.”) That is enough for us to rejoice daily.
- Family prayer. Begin each meal with thanks to God. Keep it brief. Have a nighttime routine that includes prayer.
- Encourage each member of the family to have their own time to pray.
- Participate in helping. Whether it is each other or contributing to the family needs. Meals, cleaning up, helping when needed.
- Participate in ministry outside of the home. Volunteering, visiting the elderly (neighbor), etc.
Talk to your family members and add to this list. As the children grew and left home we had a big gap in our lives, and my husband and I found we were no longer praying together because our nightly routine was changed. Even when our children were younger, the two of us would pray each evening together. This habit changed as our lives became busier. For anyone who has children, you always think you will have so much time when the kids grow older, but soon find that our lives just change and often become even busier. We must make the time to pray together.
If you are alone in your home and have a good prayer life, that is wonderful, now invite a friend. I pray with my friends often. Sometimes it is in church, sometimes it is a friend in need. I am part of several email prayer groups that send out prayer requests. I set up a Facebook group – A Few Minutes with God years ago for prayer requests. It was used to help people who needed prayers and also to post their praise reports.
And that is really the crux of the transformed family, and that is you will have so many praise reports! A praise report is where we thank God for the blessings in our lives. My son was hit by a falling object that was large and metal off of a single-story roof. The injury could have been so bad, but it turned out that while it bled profusely, the damage was minimal and mostly a scrape. That was a miracle. No swelling, no concussion, no brain damage, or worse! So thank you Lord for your blessings. If you think about it each day you can come up with so many things to thank the Lord for and to praise His Name. But, it takes time to stop and think.
What do you do when you enter a church? Is it a time to be social, or is it a time to listen and pray? Can we pray and be social? Of course! But I feel that often church is used as a social outlet rather than a time of worship. Going to church for me is a time to get on my knees, for as long as I am able, and begin by thanking and praising God, asking His forgiveness for the ways I have offended Him, and petitioning Him in prayer. However, you serve to worship it is an individual choice.
This week I challenge you to work within your own family no matter how big or how small and make positive changes. Small to begin with and grow as your family grows and adapts to a time of prayer, worship, and growing closer to the Lord. I pray this is a blessing to you and your family.
Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!
The post Transformed Family appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Virtues for Heaven? Episode 309Why do you need virtues for heaven’s entrance? Isn’t it just accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior good enough? Sure, belief in Christ is pivotal to salvation, but there is more. In this podcast, we explore the meaning of exhibiting virtues that are important and meaningful in our lives.
Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com. For more information on this fabulous online math program for K-12, check them out. Thanks to our sponsors for keeping this network and these shows on air.
What are the building blocks of our faith? Belief in Christ as Lord and Savior, rejecting sin, and leading a holy life. Easy right? Not so much!
The building blocks for leading a good and moral life require a belief in life, sacrificial death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior. Yes, but how do we live a virtuous life? How do we follow Jesus’ example? How do we pick up our crosses of this world and rely on His help to carry them? Each one of the questions can only be answered with thought and contemplation.
As an aside, I would like to share with you what I have encountered in my email inbox lately. I am asked at least three times or more a week if I will interview various speakers and authors. One of the speakers caught my eye recently, and I went to listen to his podcast. The topic was the falsehood of faith. The speaker said, “If you are sensitive to faith or you have faith, you may want to skip this podcast in the series.” Truthfully I should have because what I heard left me unsettled. The podcaster went on to explain how the brain works and how people are brainwashed into believing in God, even a false god. (with a little g). That’s it?
Oh my gosh. I wanted to tell the speaker he was really stretching his explanation to explain away faith as a psychosomatic occurrence. When people of faith feel love, an infilling of the Holy Spirit, and are witnesses to miracles, is this a falsehood brought about by what is, in essence, brainwashing?
There is no room in this atheist’s mind for miracles, for the idea that our world did not come out of nothing, that we should have respect for those who gave up their lives as martyrs not just in the days of Christ but currently all over the world where Christians and those of other faiths are persecuted.
Why is there a fear of faith? Why is there a denial of faith? Because having faith requires a change. Having faith requires a decision. Having faith requires self-denial. The building blocks of the Christian life are not only choosing to follow Christ and turn our back on sin but also living a life that is an example to others. I heard a quote, and the attributes of this quote are given to different people; if you want to see the history of this quote, there is a website here. (Quote Investigator.) Yet, I want to share it with you because I love the lessons it gives.
“Watch your thoughts because thoughts turn into words, watch your words because words turn to actions, watch your actions because actions turn into habits, watch your habits because habits develop your character, and watch your character because your character will determine where you spend eternity.”
If we need further instruction, we can go to Psalm 141:1-4 (read on air).
We can look at four virtues, also known as natural or moral virtues. (Also known as the Cardinal Virtues)
These virtues are achieved through practice and lead to a good life.
- Prudence – think before you speak
- Justice – is giving someone their due, whether it is forgiveness, etc. (God deserves our worship, people deserve mercy from us)
- Courage (or fortitude) is the ability to disagree when needed with love and to speak out for one’s faith.
- Temperance: Self-control – whether that is holding your tongue, cutting back on eating, or other bad habits that are often formed.
We can’t live a good life and an immoral life at the same time. We often hear of someone living what scripture would term an immoral life and say, “But they are a good person. How do we determine that? The question arises – yes, but who are you to judge? We are not the judge, but God is a just judge. Earthly good, or the definition of someone who is an upstanding citizen, is not the same as moral good. When you reject God’s teaching and the Word of God, then you can not be morally good.
Friends, we sometimes elevate ourselves and those we love on the supernatural level. However, only God can do that. We must be in union with God. The best way other than to accept the Lord as our Savior is to practice these good habits.
Ephesians 4:1-6 (read on air).
We can’t do this alone, nor should we try. Another talk I recently heard challenged us to ask the Lord for the impossible. In fact, one thing the speaker said was that we often don’t ask the Lord for enough. It has caused me to really think about this notion, and I will do a follow-up on the topic because, seriously, we often fall short of what we can ask the God of the Universe. God is Almighty, He is Lord of All, He is the Mighty One, the King of Peace, He and only He is worthy of our praise. We can ask the Almighty to grant us the grace to live a life with prudence, with justice, with courage and with temperance. We can ask the Lord to give us more faith. We can pray without ceasing in our daily lives when we take out the trash, walk the dog, or do anything we do in our lives. Let us all give God the honor and the glory He deserves. Amen and Amen! May God be raised today and always.
The post Virtues for Heaven appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Ruth Gleans and Boaz Prays a Blessing Prayer for Her.
Do you find yourself losing hope? We all face times of discouragement and sadness but that’s when we need to turn to God. Join the podcast today as the Book of Ruth shows us new hope in tragedy, new directions for the future and how to pray blessing prayers.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ New Hope, New Direction & Blessing Prayers Episode #3Ruth: Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. Today, we will cover these points:
Return to JerusalemPreviously, we accompanied Elimelech, Naomi, and the family en route from Bethlehem to Moab to escape a famine. Disaster hits the family—Elimelech dies, the two sons marry Moabite women, and then, after ten years, the sons die. In grief, Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem with her two daughters-in-law and then begs the women to return to their Moabite mothers and culture. Three essential details from the Book of Ruth emerge, including 1) Blessings-Naomi blessed her daughters-in-law, 2) Hesed (Hebrew for loving-kindness) – she prayed for God’s loving-kindness on the women, and 3) She remembers God but says she is bitter against God. How could Naomi be bitter against God for what happened yet still pray for the Lord’s loving-kindness? The answer is related to the opening verse of Ruth 1: In the days the judges ruled. Today, we cover the following points.
Mara (Ruth 1: 19-22)* Naomi is aware of the cycle when her nation fell into sin, servitude, supplication, and salvation stages from Judges. * Her return signifies her repentance. * She asks to be called Mara, meaning bitter, but in the Book of Ruth, no one ever calls her that.
New Hope (Ruth 2: 1-3) Ruth gleans to support Naomi, and herself-it’s the barley harvest. * Gleaning provides for the poor ((see* Deuteronomy 24:19 and Leviticus 19: 9-10). * Ruth” happens to” end up on a field owned by Boaz, who turns out to be a kinsman of Elimelech.
Divine Providence (Ruth 2: 4-13)* Ruth happened to glean in part of Boaz’s field. Boaz was Elimelech’s relative and a man of great wealth. Unlike Elimelech, he had stayed in Bethlehem during the famine, and God had taken care of him. * Divine Providence means God “watches over and governs all the things that He made, reaching from end to end with might and disposing of all things with gentleness” [The First Vatican Council (1869-70, Denziner, p. 3003) and “all events, even the most personal decisions of human beings, are part of God’s eternal plan” (Hardon, 1999, p. 448).
Hesed * HESED (loving-kindness and covenant faithfulness) becomes more apparent * Divine Providence means God “watches over and governs all the things that He made, reaching from end to end with might and disposing of all things with gentleness” [The First Vatican Council (1869-70, Denziner, p. 3003) and “all events, even the most personal decisions of human beings, are part of God’s eternal plan” (Hardon, 1999, p. 448). * God gave Ruth favor, and Boaz demonstrated favor and loving-kindness to protect Ruth.
The Blessings* Boaz speaks and prays the language of blessing: When Boaz came from Bethlehem, he said to the reapers, “The Lord be with you!” * He prayed over Ruth: 12 May the Lord reward you for your deeds, and may you have a full reward from the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge!” * A blessing can be a simple prayer asking God to share his loving kindness, guidance, and favor on another.
Personal Reflection & ApplicationWhat impacts you most from Ruth 1: 19 – 2: 13?
- Look for God’s providence, hope, and care in small ways. Naomi and Ruth approached Bethlehem at the start of the barley harvest, which meant food was plentiful again – new hope. Ruth just happened to land in Boaz’s field to glean, and he gave her favor—a sign of hope. Rely on 2 Corinthians 9:8-10.
- Pray Blessings Over Your Friends and Family Today. Consider praying a blessing over another. Try to include 1) PROCLAIM GOD’S GOODNESS. Speak God’s goodness, kindness, and His power to change a situation, 2) ASK GOD’S BLESSING OVER A PERSON. Ask God to share this goodness, kindness, strength, favor, and joy with the person, and 3) DESCRIBE THE NEED. Pray what and why the person needs blessing. Why not share the blessing in a note, text, or email? They will be blessed.
LinksSeven Part Series Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7
- Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study with your friends. It’s free, and I will send you a study guide for discussion and Scripture reflection accompanying each podcast.
- Click here to read about hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Find my books:
- Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear
- Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy
- Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
The post Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ New Hope, New Direction & Blessing Prayers ~ Ruth #3 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Spiritual Experience | A Few Minutes with God Podcast with Felice GerwitzEpisode 308: Exploring Spiritual Experiences Based on Matthew 17Have you had a spiritual experience? Have you ever felt like you were on a spiritual mountaintop? In this episode of the “A Few Minutes with God” podcast, Felice Gerwitz explores these profound moments. She draws inspiration from Matthew 17, where Jesus is transfigured on the mountain before Peter, James, and John:
“After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.” (Matthew 17:1-2)
You might be curious about what defines such an experience or blessed to have had one. These moments can come through prayer, music, a powerful sermon, a unique situation, or a special moment from the Lord. In this episode, Felice discusses:
- Understanding Spiritual Experiences: Felice explains what a spiritual experience is and isn’t, helping you recognize these moments.
- Common Elements of Spiritual Experiences: Many of these experiences share typical components, such as a sense of immense peace, overwhelming joy, or a deep connection with God.
- The Joy of Spiritual Experiences: Felice shares insights into the profound joy that accompanies a true spiritual encounter and how this joy can transform your faith journey.
- Experiencing God’s Grace Anew: This can open your heart to God’s grace in new and unexpected ways. Felice provides examples and personal stories to illustrate this transformation.
- A New Calling: Sometimes, it brings a sense of new purpose or calling. Felice discusses how to discern and embrace this new direction.
- What to Do After a Mountaintop Experience: Practical advice on integrating these powerful moments into your daily life and maintaining spiritual growth.
This episode is proudly sponsored by CTC Math. They offer an excellent resource for homeschooling families seeking a comprehensive and engaging math curriculum.
A Mountaintop Spiritual Experience can contain some of the following elements:
- a spiritual connection to the Almighty
- it can be life-changing – you don’t want to continue on the path you are currently on but want to improve.
- it can contain extreme joy
- it can come from unexplainable events
- you feel a strong sense of God’s presence
- you have a deep knowledge of the truth that God loves you
- you feel a calling to follow God in a deeper way.
God’s love is something we read about in the scriptures; look up the words “God’s love.”
We read in 1 John 4-6 (Read on air).
and in Romans 5:4-6 we read (On air.)
The trouble is that we understand God’s love only through our own experiences. How can we experience what we have not gone through and do not understand? We can’t. God’s love can only be explained by the fact that we must first have the head knowledge that it exists (because we are here, we live, the Lord had given us life – we are not a mistake, not an accident!
God loves us, and our mountaintop spiritual experience can be realized because God wants this for us. So let’s pray, dear friends, that you recognize when it happens and are open to the love of God today and always.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of spiritual encounters and how they can profoundly impact your walk with God.
The post Spiritual Experience appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Ruth and Naomi Weep Forward to Bethlehem
Are you weeping forward or backward? Sometimes, we must weep, but we must also go forward trusting God is leading us. Join the podcast today, where we focus on Naomi’s blessing and Ruth’s words, “I will go where you go, and your God will be my God,” as the two weep forward.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Weeping Forward, I Will Go Where You Go #2Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. Today, we will cover these points:
From Moab to BethlehemLast week, we met the family – Elimelech, Naomi, sons Mahlon and Chilion who made the decision to leave Bethlehem to escape a famine. They left their faith community and their family and even overlooked God’s warning about living among those who worshiped idols. Soon, Elimelech died. The sons married Moabite women, and within ten years, they also died. So Naomi was left with the two daughters-in-law in Moab and they wept forward to Bethlehem. Today, we cover the following points:
Who are Moabites?* So, who are the Moabites? * All Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham’s nephew. * In Genesis 18, Abraham asks God to refrain from destroying Sodom and Gomorrah. * God heard Abraham’s prayer and brought out Lot and his family before any destruction. * Lot’s daughters became convinced they would never marry and have children. * So, after getting Lot drunk, they seduced their father, and the relationship produced a son Moab and another son named Ammi.
God Remembers the Prayers* Moab became the father of the Moabite nation and Ammi the father of the Ammonite nation; both nations soon worshiped other gods that even required child sacrifice. * God remembered the prayers and, in His providence, brought one of Lot’s descendants—Ruth—into the ancestral line of David, the line of Christ.
The Journey Home to Bethlehem (Ruth 1: 6-11)* Somewhere en route, Naomi’s thoughts turned to what problems the daughter-in-laws would face in Bethlehem. The levirate law would provide them NO security or future.. * This law assured a widow that a brother or relative of her dead husband would marry her and raise up children in her husband’s name and for his estate. * Naomi realized it was too late for her to marry again and have more sons. She begged them to return.
The Blessing (Ruth 1: 8-9) Naomi blessed the women with the words in v 8-9, the first of seven blessings in Ruth, where blessing becomes a strong theme. * A blessing can be a simple prayer asking God to share his loving kindness, guidance, and favor on another. * Naomi asked the Lord to “deal kindly with them.” Kindly in the original Hebrew is “hesed.” * Hesed involves kindness, covenant-type love, faithfulness, and mercy – a deep commitment, devotion, and care. God himself, throughout Scripture, is the model for hesed*. * God’s loving-kindness was sent to us through his Only Son, Jesus Christ, who died for our sins.
I Will Go Where You Go (Ruth 1: 17-18). Orpah returned to Moab, but Ruth clung to Naomi * Ruth showed hesed* “Don’t ask me to leave you! Let me go with you. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and that is where I will be buried. May the Lord’s worst punishment come upon me if I let anything but death separate me from you” (v. 16-17, Good News translation). * Ruth used Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel in Hebrew, which means “I am who I am,” * Her profession of faith put her story in the Bible and give her a place in salvation history forever. * Together, they wept and walked forward to Bethlehem.
Personal Reflection & ApplicationWhat impacts you most from Ruth 1: 6-18?
- Weep & Walk Forward. Sometimes, we must weep, even cry our eyes out over loss and disappointment. Share your tears with trusted friends and family and keep going forward. Keep looking for God to open doors. Psalm 56: 8-9 is a comfort: “O God, You have kept count of my tossings [wonderings]; [you] put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your record? … This I know, that God is for me.“God sees and remembers all your tears and the sufferings you. Rely on Isaiah 41: 10.
- Speak Blessings. The Hebrew word for deep devotion and compassion is hesed, Even in great trial and pain, we can pray a blessing of God of God’s loving kindness for others. Naomi blessed her daughters-in-law simply by asking God to show his kindness, guiding love, and favor to them. For example, you can bless with others Numbers 6: 24-26 and bless the Lord with Psalm 104.
LinksSeven Part Series Ruth: Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7
- Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study with your friends, It’s free and I will send you a study guide for discussion and Scripture reflection that accompanies each podcast.
- Click here to read about hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Find my books:
- Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear
- Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy
- Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
[1] Pope Francis:
The post Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Weeping Forward, I Will Go Where You Go~ Ruth #2 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Meet the AuthorAmy J. Cattapan is a middle-school English teacher and Catholic speaker, retreat leader, and author who has written or contributed to several books, including Sweet Jesus, Is It June Yet?, Chicken Soup for the Soul: From Lemons to Lemonade, and the award-winning novels Angelhood and Seven Riddles to Nowhere. She hosts the podcast Cath-Lit Live!, where she interviews Catholic authors with new releases.
Cattapan has appeared on The Katie McGrady Show on SiriusXM, EWTN’s Bookmark, Catholic Faith Network Live, and the Son Rise Morning Show. Her writing has appeared in Highlights for Children, Hopscotch for Girls, Pockets, and Catechist. She also served as the host for Shalom World TV’s BOOK.ed.
Cattapan earned a bachelor’s degree in English secondary education from Marquette University, a master’s degree in instruction for secondary education language arts from Northeastern Illinois University, and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Loyola University Chicago. She has spoken at a variety of conferences, including NCEA, NCTE, the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, and the C3 Conference.
All the Saints! Let’s face it, it is easier to be a teacher if you have your saint squad helping you! Amy has gathered and organized 45 saints according to various needs: creativity, patience, building strong relationships, teaching in difficult times and more. Choose the topic that fits your situation and then read about a few saints who overcame difficulties and obstacles.
Published by Ave Maria Press.
Download free prayers for teachers including a Litany of Saints from the book on Amy’s website.
And do yourself a favor and follow her on Instagram.
Do a bit of research on a saint, choose one thing about them you admire and adopt that quality or virtue.
Please contact me to speak at your parish or group!
The post Pick your Saint Squad appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Conclusion to the book FearlessConclusion to the book Fearless. Establishing a foundation of peace and fulfillment in life, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, is a matter of delving more deeply into the reality of God’s connection to us. Fully receiving and being transformed by the indwelling presence of the Blessed Trinity is an ongoing process. Faith in God’s love for us becomes more surely our source of confidence and self-worth, hope in him becomes our foundation of joy no matter what may come our way, and his love is our unfathomable fulfillment “packed together, shaken down, and overflowing” (Luke 6:38) that overflows into the lives of others. The more we grow in wholeness, the more we pursue holiness unencumbered. As we grow in holiness, our personal integration and interpersonal relationships become more peaceful. It all starts with receiving from the Lord, as he has first loved us (1 John 4:10). However, recall that our relationship to ourselves is our mode, the lens that influences our ability to perceive him clearly.
Seeking health in our physical, emotional, and spiritual lives is interwoven, since those aspects of our person are interwoven. This quest is a beautiful collaboration with God’s perfect plan and redeeming grace as we endeavor, in as much as is our part, to prepare a greater dwelling place for him in our hearts. As our capacity for him increases, his presence progressively fills and permeates us, setting into motion a metamorphosis that transforms all we do. This is what will heal each wounded heart, convert each wayward desire, and unite families, peoples, and nations as the bride of Christ.
A practical tip in times of difficult communication, whether with ourselves or with others can be remembered by the acronym V.E.S.T, as in inV.E.S.T in relationships. V stands for validate the emotions. This does not require us to agree with the emotions, but to acknowledge them. E stands for express compassion, thereby from our heart meeting the other. S.T. stands for speak the truth. If there is something we really believe ought to be illuminated in the situation, we can do so after first validating and expressing compassion. Of course, we can’t control how another will respond, but any truth we illuminate at that point will be more palatable by whomever we are addressing. This simple formula can lay a foundation for peaceful relating.
In times of stress or turmoil, first consider if the most fundamental difficulty is a break down in connection to God, self, or others, and then consider if it is a struggle with boundaries, knowing we are valued, being known, or chosen. This can help us all drill down to the crux of the problem and be instruments of His light and love.
May the Lord give you peace.
Margaret
The post Conclusion to the book Fearless appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Evil Tactic – Combatting Evil ~ Episode 225What is an evil tactic? It is something employed by the evil one to take souls to hell. Harsh? Maybe. But, this is something that few of us want to talk about or consider. In this podcast, Felice will explore the tactics used and how to prevent being led to the dark side.
Visit this month’s wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12
Few people realize the greatest tool of evil is to convince people that evil does not exist. Everything is fine, it’s good, there is nothing to worry about. Everyone gets a free pass to go to heaven. Don’t worry, proclaim God once, claim Him and go on and live your life in whatever way you see fit. I realize we all come from different faith walks. Some are non-denominational and others adhere to a specific denomination. Some teach it is faith alone and others that it is faith and works.
In the previous podcast, I cited James 2:14-26, Faith without works is dead. With this thought, we must look at the ways that evil sets to destroy not only others but specifically our lives.
I see evil glorified everywhere I look during the month of October, whether I am in the grocery store or at a restaurant. Some people celebrate fall with leaves and such, but many, enjoy what they believe is making light of darkness with evil-looking and scary decorations. While spoofs are fine, being surrounded by evil-looking decorations is not something I enjoy. Walking into a hair salon while hearing an evil cackling voice is not my idea of fun, and believe me, I soon went to another hair salon.
Here is a short list of things that are considered evil tactics:
- Not believing evil or satan exists. John 8:44 (read)
- Fearfulness (in a minute I’ll read from Matthew 10 which helps us to combat fear)
- Deception and lies, Confusion, Twisting of words – reproductive freedom, no big deal, not for us to judge
- Division – because when we are divided we are weak. John 17:20-24 (read)
- Diversion – an overload of information, social media, anxiety, and distractions of everyday life Matt 10:26-32 (read)
- Discouragement and depression – personal setbacks, always wanting more, if “this” happens, I’ll be happy. (humility)
There is so much packed into these verses, first, we have nothing to fear, the next is that we should not fear the body because what is most important is our soul, and the only person to fear is what can destroy us -that is giving into evil tactics and ultimately hell. Then there is the wonderful verse about the Father’s intimate knowledge about each one of us because he even knows the number of hair on our heads. We have value to God, my friends more than we know! We must also acknowledge God, we must not be afraid of our Christian faith or deny him unless we want to be denied before the Father in heaven. Powerful words!
- Humility – the key to discouragement and depression is humility. Realizing we can do nothing without God. This is not a way to push off blame or alleviate our guilt, it is a way however to realize that when we do things under our own steam we are setting up ourselves for failure. Have you ever wondered when your life falls apart, and you can’t seem to handle anymore that you are “doing” it yourself and without God? Sure, we are all gifted in some way, but those gifts should be attributed to the Almighty.
In our humility we ask the Lord for help, to come into our lives in a deeper way (I know – I must sound like I repeat myself over and over) but it is a truth that when we grow closer to God we find things that are so important in our life or that we think are important fall way. All the people who suffer loss realize in the end that these are things they can not take with them when they die. That is why we are taught to look to the end, to look at our lives and when we do, when we grow closer to God we can see the areas where we have sinned.
Evil tactics are lost on those who are grounded, who surround themselves with like-minded Christians, and who immerse themselves in all that is good and holy, beginning with your relationship with Christ and the Scriptures. This week make a list of the evil tactics aimed at you and work at ways (with God, Scripture, and prayer) that you can combat the evils.
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Meet our AuthorMaria V. Gallagher is an author, advocate, speaker, and life coach. Her latest book is Glorious Encounters with Mary: A Guide to Living the Mysteries of the Rosary. Her other books include Mercy’s Power and Joyful Encounters with Mary. Maria previously worked as an award-winning radio reporter and television news producer. She is a member of the worldwide Cursillo Movement, the mother of one beautiful ballerina, and a mentor to many. Her books are available from Marian Press at Shop Mercy.
My Key Take-a Ways* Mary is a sign of hope * turn to Mary in times of need and she will help you * look for her intercession and thank her and God for it * write those “Mary Moments” down * focus less on the cross and more on the blessings * Our Lady Undoer of Knots wants to smooth out the ribbon of our life
Learn more about MariaHer Website
Instagram
This week, uncover the “Mary Moments” in your life and write them down!
Contact Deanna here to learn about speaking for your parish or group!
The post Glorious Encounters with Mary; A Guide to Living the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Pseudo-ConnectionSince reciprocity between people in the areas of connection (boundaries, valued, known and openness) is essential for healthy and holy relationships, it stands to reason a lack of give and take in these areas leads to unhealthy and even abusive relationships. For example, in any type of abuse, there are boundary violations of a physical, emotional, and/or spiritual nature. In pornography, for example, there is no reciprocity; instead God’s boundaries for another are exploited, while their value is reduced to use, and their personhood is disregarded. Also, the one viewing pornography violates their own dignity and God’s protective limits for themselves.
There are a wide variety of ways we can attempt to satisfy our desire for connection with God, ourselves, and others in life-giving and life-affirming ways. Food, shopping, drugs, alcohol, sex, excessive work, are just some examples. For a brief moment they may distract from our hunger for authentic connection, but in the long run they fail to satisfy and their fruits are internal and external discord rather than peace and love. I attended a talk a number of years ago by Vincent Felitti, M.D., about the effects of adverse childhood experiences. In discussing the attempt to drown out the residual internal pain from early traumas with substances he said, “You can never get enough of what almost works.” The same is true of attempts to use a substitute for the innate need to connect. We would never be able to get enough of what might almost work. We would end up chasing faulty remedies and create cycles of frustration and internal and/or relational conflict.
Often, there is much talk about chastity among teens in religious circles. While this is an important value, it’s also important to teach young people how to connect in a healthy way. Sexually immoral behavior is, oftentimes, a desire to connect acted out in uneducated, immature, or wounded ways. Given that we are made for connection, we need to learn, practice and teach healthy connection so relationships are truly fulfilling, leading to the wholeness and holiness the Lord wants for us all.
The more we grow in healthy connection, the more we are set free from bondage and decay, and grow in the freedom God intends for us as his children. We can begin to recognize the factors of connection in peace and their absence in conflict and so learn to calibrate our internal meter during times of struggle. It is difficult, if not impossible, to think of a human suffering that can’t be traced back to a breakdown in connection. Once we identify the relationship where the gap is, we are well on our way to knowing how to direct our efforts towards peace.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Ruth Makes an Important Decision
Do you regret a decision you made? God can help you find a turnaround. The Book of Ruth is about turnarounds and finding new joy and purpose in difficult circumstances. Join the podcast and uncover how a book written over 3000 years ago can speak to you today.
Then and NowWelcome to Ruth-Finding Joy in Tough Times and Trusting in God’s Goodness Episode #1. The Book of Ruth reveals God’s goodness, God’s God’s providence and Godly relationships. Most importantly, it shows how God uses faithful women in Salvation history, especially Ruth, a refugee and convert who ended up in the lineage of Jesus Christ. God’s Word is always alive and fresh (Hebrews 4: 12) and will speak to our hearts by the Holy Spirit and in this case, through the Book of Ruth.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Decision Making & Turnarounds Episode #1Ruth” Finding Joy in Tough Times is a seven-part series. You will be inspired. Today, we cover these points.
My JourneyMy journey with Ruth started when Pope Benedict XV1, in the summer of August 2011, encouraged the faithful to read the Book of Ruth. So I did and invited others to join me. Then, in 2022, Pope Francis called the faithful to study Ruth.[1] Others joined me again. We had fresh insights both times, and God spoke to our hearts in amazing ways, filling us with joy. So, even if you have read Ruth before, let’s read it again with a new heart and open mind to hear what the Holy Spirit may teach us. Today, we cover the following points.
Background for the Book of Ruth Ruth is one of five Old Testament books (with Esther, Song of Songs, Lamentations, and Ecclesiastes) that make up the Megillah; eac*h is read in the synagogue during a specific Jewish festival. * Ruth is about 1/4th of the way into the pages of your Bible, between Judges and 1 Samuel. * Ruth is among the historical books in the Old Testament; with the time period, “In the days that the judges ruled (v. 1),” which is about 1380 BC to 1050 BC. * It was a dismal time for Israel; the people would not listen to the judges God sent, turned away from God, and fell into idolatry and immorality (Judges 2: 16-17).
Elimelech, Naomi, Mahlon & Chilion Move to Moab (Ruth 1: 1-2) The family moved from Bethlehem to Moab because of famine, but problems arose from that decision. * Elimelech’s name in Hebrew means My God is King,* but Elimelech did not look to God, just wanting out of the famine. * The family were Ephrathites. Ephratha is the former name of Bethlehem in Scripture and is about five miles south of Jerusalem. * God cautioned the Israelites about associating with their enemies, especially the Moabites because they hated Israel and led them to worship their idols. * God always gives his people choices (Deuteronomy 30: 19).
Ten Years Later & Great Loss (Ruth 1: 3-6).
- Elimelech died, the boys married Moabite women, and after ten years, both sons died.
- Naomi suffered emotionally, plus knowing legally, the family name and inheritance would be gone.
- She was left ONLY with two daughters-in-law in a foreign country,. BUT GOD!!
- Psalm 146: 9: “The Lord watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow.”
The Turnaround (Ruth 1: 6).
- Grief-stricken, Naomi heard in Moab that the LORD came to help his people with food in Bethlehem.
- Naomi rose and, with the daughters-in-law, started the return to her people, her faith community, and her God.
Personal Reflection & Application What impacts you most from these first six verses of Ruth? + Arise. Have you made a choice you regret? God will lead you forward. Arise. Don’t look back or stay in despair. + Remember. Do you feel like God has forsaken you? Are you bereaved or lonely? Naomi remembered the Lord. Do you remember God’s goodness? Start today thanking God for how he has blessed and helped you, even in the smallest matters. + Listen* for him to speak to you, especially in the Scriptures. * God is with you always. God has a plan that can change devastation to joy.
Prayer Response* Read, memorize, and pray these verses: + John 6:37. Jesus said, “I will never turn away anyone who comes to me.” (Good News) + Hebrews 13: 5. The Lord God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” (NRSVCE) + Jeremiah 29: 11.“I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord. They are plans for peace and not disaster, plans to give you a future filled with hope.” (Good News)
LinksSeven Part Series Ruth: Finding Joy In Tough Times
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
- Part 4
- Part 5
- Part 6
- Part 7
- Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study with your friends, It’s free and I will send you a study guide for discussion and Scripture reflection that accompanies each podcast.
- Click here to read about hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small group and to sign up.
- Download Bookmarks from the podcasts: WrapYourselfinJOY.com
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Find my books:
- Wrap Yourself in JOY: Find the Joy and Fight the Fear
- Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals & Joy
- Nehemiah: Rebuilding Hope & Joy in Your Life
[1] Pope Francis:
The post Finding JOY in Tough Times ~ Decision Making & Turnarounds ~ Ruth #1 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
God’s Word Revealed – Episode 220We often read the Bible and are left unmoved, but through the words of scripture, God’s word is revealed. Why is that? What are the tools you need to get you into the right frame of mind before praying and delving into the scriptures? Stay tuned and find out.
We are so appreciative of this wonderful company and our sponsor CTC Math – for a math curriculum that is geared to teaching children K-12 visit CTCMath.com our sponsors help keep this show and our network on the air.
When was the last time you read the Bible or listened to the Bible read to you in church and found your mind wandering or the words had less of an impact than you hoped? God’s word teaches and instructs us and it can reveal truths to us that will help us in our daily lives and we are taught are good for our eternal soul. What is revealed in God’s word is more than can we usually unpack on our own and that is where the commentaries are helpful.
A quick guide to reading scripture.
- Pray to the Lord for the forgiveness of past sins.
- Ask the Holy Spirit for a blessing upon you to open your mind to the words the Lord wants you to hear.
- Close your eyes and pray thanksgiving for all the Lord has done for you.
- Put on the “mind of Christ,” and pray for understanding.
- Open your Bible and read!
As I was preparing this podcast I thought about some of the highlights of which there are many but these were earth-shattering revelations about the sovereignty of God.
God revealed His name in Exodus to Moses in the burning bush – we learn that it was a miraculous event, the bush was not consumed in fire and by the power of God, he sustained it, and revealed Himself with the promise of liberating the oppressed people.
Exodus 3: 1-8 [Read on air] The bush was sustained by the power of God and in this passage, God revealed His name. I AM. What a miracle and one that we wish was happening today – a miracle to set His people free those of us who are believers who are crying out to the Lord for help. Not as I want my God but as you want for me. That too is takes a miracle of faith to trust in God and His insight and knowing what is best for us.
The Lord revealed His plan of a Savior through his prophetic word, and even through Mary. We may not consider the Mother of Christ sharing a prophetic word but she did and we know this because we read her prophetic word in what is known as the Magnificat, in some translations I read Mary’s song but I feel that falls short of the magnitude of her words: Luke 1:46-56 Please read those words and think about them, friends. My goodness, when I read … my soul magnifies the Lord we should pray for that blessing and grace. To trust as Mary trusted what a gift! Sure, she was visited by an angel of God, but we all know that the punishment for an unwed woman in those days was death. I’m sure she was afraid but still, she went to tend to her cousin, Elizabeth and we further read the baby in Elizabeth’s womb lept for joy. That baby was the future John the Baptist.
I think that is why so many of us feel so strongly about abortion that we never know who the future child that will be born is, and all are gifts from God and created in God’s image. Again, we have to suspend our thoughts and put on the mind of Christ as the scriptures teach.
And another prophetic word by Zechariah – the father of John the Baptist. Because he did not believe the word he received from the Lord when he was in the temple offering the sacrifice of the people, he was struck mute. Yet once his wife Elizabeth argued about the name that should be given to their child, the Lord gave him his voice back. Luke 1:67-80 (this was soon after Mary’s words). His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied that his son would be a prophet called by God the Most High. The miracle next to that of Elizabeth being barren, and old and still giving birth to a healthy child.
Those prophetic words and the many that the Bible contains are not just for your neighbor, your friend, or the people down the street, no. These words are for you and for me! There are prophets of today some are sound and teach truth and others I believe want to sow fear in our hearts. We do not need to have a spirit of fear but we must be of sound mind and that comes from putting on the armor of Christ!
Your challenge this week is to pray to discern God’s Word in the scripture and to pray to only hear the truth and discern when it is not of the Lord. May you be blessed today and always.
Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!
The post God’s Word Revealed (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Navigating Relational StrugglesAs surely as we have the indwelling presence of the Holy Trinity through baptism, we are meant to be occasions of grace for each other. Since it is our call to be incarnations of God, his hands and feet in the world at this time, even our simple interactions can minister his love, mercy, and healing. Yet, life can be complex and, of course, we all come with different temperaments, personalities, histories, and preferences. There are a great many moving parts that make up who we are.
Because of this, two or more people gathering often present challenges. But notice that, in the scripture above, they have drawn together in Jesus’ name, to enter into his presence. Considering what characterizes how the Lord relates to us, we know he engages with us through seeing and hearing us as uniquely good and that he cherishes us and respects the free will he’s given us. In short, he longs and seeks to relate to us with the deepest connection. Actually, we are made not just for communion, but for union with him. We gather in his name when we imitate his example. When we hit speed bumps and rough patches in relating, it is helpful to go back to these basics. In openly seeking to see and hear each other as uniquely good and cherished, we are able to not just go through tough times, but to grow through them as individuals and in communion with each other.
Years ago I taught these connection principles to a 16-year-old boy and his mother. They’re so simple, he was quickly able to grasp them. We used them each week to gain insight into his relational struggles with his parents and peers. After only a couple of weeks, he could explain how he was using these concepts to assess interactions in his relationships, and when something felt off he was able to get right back on course. He and his mother began to work together to calmly examine difficulties they were experiencing and peacefully arrive at understandings. Their relationship began to flourish. Beginning with a mutual understanding that they were both seeking connection made a world of difference. Suddenly, defenses were dropped, and they were able to examine circumstances together. They had attitudes of collaboration because they understood they had a common goal, common needs, and rules of engagement.
May the Lord give you peace.
Margaret
The post Navigating Relational Struggles appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Foundations of the Spiritual Life ~ Episode 307The foundation of a spiritual life is a call to holiness. We (the human race) must decrease as He (God) must increase. This, in essence, means dying to self, and no one in this age of temptation can say they do not struggle with this from time to time. We all, if we are striving for holiness will be before the face of God at some point, and we will have to account for our lives. Sure, there are many who believe that once saved, always saved, but this only goes so far. My Christian friends who share this philosophy will agree that you can not live a life of sin and claim to be saved. So, it is, yes–an acceptance of God as Lord and Savior, but also renouncing sin.
One of the greatest sermons of all time is the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5 through 7. Here, we learn at the feet of Jesus how we should live our lives. It starts beautifully with the Beatitudes Matthew 5:3-11 When I was younger, I read these passages and thought – well, I’m a failure; I am never going to make it to heaven. This is a tall order, and how can someone who lives as a mom and wife mourn, become poor in spirit, develop a pure heart, become a peacemaker, and be persecuted for righteousness’s sake? Well, as you know, just being in a family qualifies you if you are open to God’s will– and Christians are currently being persecuted for what they believe. Just putting the 10 Commandments in schools, as several states have asked, seems to cause an avalanche of lawsuits and cries of injustice.
Recipe for the Spiritual Life:Let’s read the Beatitudes: (Read on air)
Only through the gift of God’s grace can we achieve this. Doing it on our own will cause us to fail. And we need God’s grace to get through each day. The Kingdom of God was created for us; God created us to be immortal, to never die but to live forever with Him in the beautiful garden he created, but due to sin, this door was shut, and death and destruction entered, so that leaves us with free choice and free will. Evil happens when good people are too scared to speak out and to stop it because, as Matthew 5:10 states, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” We all want heaven without persecution!
Can you believe that the Creator of the Universe allows us a yes or no in deciding whether or not we want to serve Him? That is why Matthew 5:13 is so scary to us. It says,
The Narrow and Wide GatesHow can we find that narrow gate? How can we find the road that leads to life? Let’s look at the Old Testament for some help: 2 Kings. The book of Kings is about – yes, the Kings. Here, we learn the sad fate of the people who turned their backs on God. The intermarried people of different faiths were swayed in their worship, and the decline and collapse of Israel and Judah were devasting. Israel was captured by the Assyrians, and Judah was exiled to Babylon. They disobeyed the covenant of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob and were handed down by Moses. God said, “I am your God, and you are my people.”
A quick search shows this verse is in Exodus and Jeremiah.
- Exodus 6:7: “You will be my people and I will be your God. I am the LORD your God, and you will know that I made you free from Egypt.”
- Jeremiah 30:22: “And you will be My people, and I will be your God.”
- Jeremiah 32:38: “They will be My people, and I will be their God.”
- Exodus 29:45-46: “I will dwell among the people of Israel and will be their God. And they shall know that I am the LORD their God, who brought them out of the land of Egypt that I might dwell among them.
Our cry, personally in prayer, should be, “God! I want to be your people — please, please be my GOD!” We should also look at the example of King Hezekiah; he showed us how to find that narrow road and narrow gate.
- 10:1-7 and King Hezekiah. Read on air.
What did the King do? He repented, renounced his sin and the sins of the nation, fasted, and paid homage through sacrifice to the Lord. He also asked everyone to do the same. And God heard his prayer. The Lord is the beacon of light for those who love and trust Him. King Hezekiah trusted God no matter the outcome. He prayed and fulfilled another scripture—not to throw what is holy to the dogs or throw your pears to the swine.
Who would throw pearls to the swine? This is a colorful example that we read in Matthew 7:6, where Jesus says, “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.”
Throughout the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord is teaching, strengthening, and preserving our faith. Here, the Lord shares a jarring description of what happens when we take what is holy and should only be reserved for God, and we throw it, if you will, toward those who will not appreciate it. Take, for example, a movie star or perhaps a pop star. The obsession people have with these stars is an example of throwing your pearls. You are talking about a kind of worship and giving it to someone who won’t appreciate it coming from you. Collectively, we often hear the stars say how they appreciate their fans. But individually, no. The appreciation and worship you have are one-sided; they are not reciprocated.
However, our love and worship of the Lord is appreciated and blessed. Our worship does nothing to make God greater, but it is something we were created for — to love and serve the Lord. Getting too involved with the world can rob us of our faith and make it difficult to live our convictions. It takes our eyes off of God and puts them on another created being. This could be anything that we spend our time and focus on without time and focus on the Almighty.
In addition, these obsessions often cause compromise. We lose sight of what is holy. Sadly, this doesn’t help us eternally, and it isn’t going to get us anywhere. Surely, it is the wide road most traveled, not that narrow gate. We need time for God and a place in our home where we can pray and focus on our time with the Lord and not lose faith.
Ultimately, the spiritual life can be summed up in the Golden Rule, Matthew 7:12: So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Basically, this means treating others as you would treat yourself. And this, my friends, is the key to finding that narrow gate. With confidence, we pray for God’s grace to follow this less-traveled path. Amen!
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It’s SummerAnd this year I’ve set aside July to do some deep work in my soul. I need it. It’s been a tumultuous year and I have a desire to reconnect with God and me!
Random ThoughtsA few random thoughts about hazard lights and blinkers; “homemade food” in restaurants and some fun or maybe odd things about me.
Upcoming EpisodesFind out what is coming in July with some great author interviews. I also review the mysteries of the rosary.
VarietyThis episode is meant to be fun and lighthearted, like those variety shows we watched when we were kids. Like the Donny and Marie Osmond show! A little bit of this and little bit of that. So listen and enjoy!
Connect with me on Instagram or contract me via email at Deanna (at) livenotlukewarm(dot) com.
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Healthy CommunicationThe fool takes no delight in understanding,
but rather in displaying what he thinks.
– Proverbs 18:2
First, let’s sum up what we’ve learned about connection so far. We all need an authentic sense of safety, respect, and being known as good in order to facilitate openness. Putting this information to use, we have a solid foundation for communication. Regardless of the subject matter for verbal dialogue, these are ever present needs in people. Because they are invisible and because we have the same needs, we tend to ignore them and press ahead into talking, all the while neglecting the conversation running in the background.
Am I safe? Am I accepted as I am? Am I seen and heard as an individual who is good? These questions are the litmus test we generally use to assess how safe it is for us to open up, become vulnerable, and share our inmost selves. We need to start by plugging into God for the affirmation of who we are in him and strive to accept this truth more deeply. This is our mode from which we will receive what others present to us. When we begin a conversation with another after having first adjusted our vision of the Lord and ourselves in him, we are better able to approach the other calmly and with compassion.
Of course, we cannot control if others are doing the same, but we can do our part to ease the communication process by keeping in mind that others have the same needs for safety, respect and acceptance. So, it is important to communicate these and to be present to truly see and hear them, not just their words. Here are the things we can do:
- Safety and Respect – shown by awareness of and honoring a person’s boundaries. Being gentle with our words, tone, and body language are all important since we communicate in all three of these ways.
- Valuing and Accepting – don’t make the other person’s worth, even in your mind and heart, about the outcome of the conversation. When our peace seems contingent on the response from the other person, we need to focus more on the Lord before engaging. He is our Prince of Peace. Nothing anyone else says or doesn’t say can make or break us.
- Validate – acknowledge the other person’s view and/or difficulty. This doesn’t mean we have to agree with them, but we can agree and recognize their struggle.
- Be gentle; Smile (if appropriate) – this may sound remedial, but it’s a way to remind them, and us, that they are of unfathomable worth.
- Make eye contact – this helps to communicate that we are paying attention.
- Don’t multitask – not being distracted by phone or activities sends the message that we value the other.
Remember to practice these activities and thoughts in your own life and begin to see how your relationships flourish because of them. Furthermore, healthy communication is greatly facilitated when we have a common language and framework from which to approach it. Consider sharing this book with your family, friends, groups, teams, or community so that you can begin to bring some equilibrium and common understanding to the way in which the relationships in your life develop and grow.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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What is a spiritual burden, and is this baggage, and does this pertain to you? I found that we all carry some baggage, and in this show, we will discuss ways to lessen the load.
Spiritual Baggage Episode 306What is spiritual baggage? Or should it be called spiritual burden? I heard a great analogy of this the other day, and it was related to backpacking in the wilderness. When roughing it, it is important to take the essential items the things (such as food and water) that you can not live without, but in doing so, you end up weighing down your bag. The more you add to your backpack, the more you have to carry, and after a while, it is so heavy it will become a burden or slow you down. This is the same with our spiritual burdens. These are the things that weigh us down and stifle our growth and relationship with the Lord. It affects our emotions,
It affects our emotions psychologically, our relationships, and our well-being. Not only are we struggling to carry this weight every day, but often, the baggage spills over onto others. There are all types of spiritual and emotional baggage, and this can be summed up in our emotional well-being. Are we hurt, frustrated, traumatized, or has our faith been damaged in some way? Often, when we struggle with trauma, we can become bogged down in grief, anger, or sadness. Daily we struggle with not getting enough done or accomplishing all we hoped, and then we are upset with ourselves or others.
If you’ve listened to this show, you know I encourage spending time with God. When I don’t, I feel like I let the Lord down, and my spiritual growth is inching along instead of leaping ahead. Many times, we struggle with unrealized goals or how we think things should turn out instead of actual circumstances.
Baggage can also be things of the past, fighting past sins or grievances. Perhaps we still struggle to forgive someone who has hurt us, or we are carrying the pain from past relationships. Something could trigger a past response or remind us of something in the past, and we react badly. Then, of course, that spirals into guilt.
I believe the worst baggage is the unidentified ones that are in our subconscious, but we don’t realize or just don’t acknowledge. This can affect our everyday interactions with our family and those around us. It keeps us in bondage, and that, my friends, is something we must rebuke.
Baggage slows us down and can keep us from living a life that is filled with love, laughter, and the knowledge that our lives center around our faith in God.
What should we do? Daily, we should put on the whole armor of God to combat the schemes of the evil one, as Scripture states! Read Ephesians 6
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (Read on air.)
Our spiritual baggage is not won by anything we can physically do on our own – as the scripture states, “for the weapons of our warfare are not worldly but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” Strongholds are areas in our lives that we give over to the evil one!
I love Matthew 11:28-30. (Read on air.)
It gives us all so much hope! We are laboring and carrying a burden we don’t have to and that God never wanted us to carry. It is something that we have to release on a daily basis. I often pray, “Lord, I give you my worries, my needs, and all of the things I can not control in my life. Please, Lord, take this burden from me and allow me to rest in the knowledge that you are there for me, always.” Write your own prayer and focus on the words, allowing your burden to lighten. If you can’t think of anything, ask the Holy Spirit to help you.
We can overcome our struggles with anything by first acknowledging there is a problem. This is step one in any addiction program: recognizing you have an addiction first so that you can overcome it instead of being in denial and thinking it is not a problem. We can not overcome something we do not acknowledge.
Overcoming Spiritual Baggage
- Spend time in prayer, asking the Lord to reveal burdened areas of your life and write them down.
- Acknowledge these burdens with the hope that the Lord will lift them from you!
- Pray. Ask someone to pray with you, visit your priest or clergy, and ask for help. If you have a prayer partner, ask them to pray as you discern ways to deal with the issues at hand.
- Acknowledge anyone you need to forgive. Forgiving is a decision, not a feeling (Podcast on forgiveness here), and asking for forgiveness here.
- Letting go and letting God is a form of releasing our stress and anxiety to Him and Him alone.
- Asking the Lord into your heart in a deeper way and praying for God’s guidance and healing.
- Surrendering all to the Lord. Daily.
Will you pray for me? I will pray for you that you can release your burdens to the Lord and enjoy life, because your burden will be light!
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Christian Retreat ~ At Home – Episode 213It is time to fill up your spiritual tank with a Christian retreat. No matter what time of the year a refilling is good and that begins with a good Bible Study, or you, the Holy Spirit, and a pad and paper. Have you ever tried to listen to God and then had a sense of something you wanted to write down? In this way, we can communicate (in our own fallen way) with the Almighty. While it is not the same as face-to-face, we’ll have to wait for that time at the end of our lives, it is still a way to have a Christian retreat in our own homes.
– and if you missed my podcast on Renewing Your Faith you can catch it here.
Not all of us can leave to go on a weekend retreat, but if you have ever had the opportunity to go on a really good one, you know the blessings are unsurpassed. In the past, we’ve talked about spending time with God, the entire purpose or theme of this podcast, but this takes it one step further. Prayer is a communication of some sort, many times we feel it is one-sided. We talk, we listen and we hear silence. Or we look for a particular feeling, one of joy, thanksgiving, or peace. When we try to find these things and don’t we feel that we’ve failed in some way, or perhaps given up.
If you could go on a retreat what are your goals? What is it that you would want to get out of it? Is it getting closer to God? Growing in your relationship? Is it learning, listening, or perhaps making a point to rely upon the Lord? Or, is it to rest in the Lord, to become infilled and empowered by the Holy Spirit?
Recently I read something that really caused me to analyze my own relationship with the Lord. It said that if we are short-tempered, finding ourselves quickly annoyed, or unable to deal with the detours of life, we need to look at our relationship with the Lord. The people who are on track, who have a good relationship with God, and who feel that they spend time in meaningful prayer, learning, sharing their faith, and giving of themselves in service to others are the ones that can handle most things calmly.
Wow, that was eye-opening. In fact, I had just shared with my husband shortly before that the opposite. I asked him why I was unable to deal with all of the minor issues, many of them computer related that normally didn’t cause me to become upset. In the space of two weeks, my husband’s website was hacked, junk emails were created and sent from his account, and we had to move our server to a more secure one including this podcast network and the other one I owned, and website. Not only that, but the accounting software my husband’s business uses was giving me issues! And, I had no patience at all.
Sure, we all have things that happen in our lives and sometimes we handle them better than others, but this type of thing never bothered me. I was attributing my irritations to getting older! But, the Lord set me straight. If I truly believe, “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my savior, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2 then I have to live my life in this way. And, the best way to begin is by filling back up and renewing my relationship with God.
And, today we will discuss a customized retreat just for you!
First, if you have been on a retreat, think about some of the things you enjoyed. I’m going to share my list with you, be sure to add to this or subtract things that don’t interest you. You may need to tweak or adjust it to fit your schedule.
My favorite aspects of the retreat are the following?
- Quiet.
- Time for prayer.
- Praise and Worship.
- Solitude.
- Time for confession.
Retreats usually contain some type of guest speaker who gets us started on the journey of turning our hearts toward God. This may be several talks or one key talk. I spent the weekend at a retreat that started with a keynote on a Friday evening, then the silent part of the retreat. We were asked to go back to our rooms, and if we had a roommate to still remain silent. We could break our silence the next day at breakfast. The focus was on giving our thoughts to God and reading, praying or spending time in that quiet thinking about what the speaker said that was impactful but more importantly to train our busy minds to slow down. When you take communication out of the equation and are forced into quiet it is amazing. It allows you a chance to breathe and relax.
When you are in the car, can you just drive in silence? If the answer is always no, maybe it is time to begin your car trip with prayer. I plan to do another podcast on this very topic at some point soon. I use my car trips always the very beginning of one to pray. Once I am finished with my prayers, then I can flip on the radio or podcasts. But first I must have time with God.
The point of a retreat is relationship and communication only with the Lord. It can be a time of prayer and petition for yourself, wait another time to pray for others, unless you are really led to do it during this time.
So, your dream retreat what would it look like? Here is a thumbnail outline to start you off.
- First, ask the Lord to fill you to overflowing with His love joy, and peace or whatever the goals are for your retreat.
- Find a quiet place. Somewhere you will not be interrupted.
- Have a journal, a pen, your Bible, and something to drink.
- Praise God – either in word or song. If you can sing, do it! Have a favorite playlist? Play it.
- Wait until you feel the joy or the sense of peace and allow that to fill you in the quiet. Remain in this way as long as you’d like or time permits.
- Write down any thoughts or words. Don’t be in a hurry with this. Close your eyes and just wait upon the Lord.
- Read scripture if you are led to a particular scripture. Again, write down the words that touch you, and in the quiet and listen. Mediate on what they mean in your life.
- Ask the Lord, in prayer to strengthen your faith (or whatever it is you want to ask the Lord).
- Write down any thoughts or goals you want for this day or the future. Make these goals reachable!
- Praise God and thank Him for this time with Him.
Create your own retreat and you will be blessed.
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Our AuthorsBarb Szyszkiewicz is a wife, mother of three young adults, a music minister at her parish, and a Secular Franciscan. She is the editor at CatholicMom and blogs at FranciscanMom.com. Barb enjoys writing, cooking, and reading. She is the author of The Handy Little Guide to Prayer and The Handy Little Guide to the Liturgy of the Hours published by Our Sunday Visitor.
Allison Gingras is the founder of ReconciledToYou, where she shares the love of Jesus and her Catholic faith with relational stories, laughter, and authentic honesty through everyday, ordinary life occurrences. Allison is a Catholic social media and digital specialist for Family Rosary, Catholic Mom, and the Diocese of Fall River.
Gingras developed the Stay Connected Journals for Women series, including her volumes The Gift of Invitation: 7 Ways Jesus Invites You to a Life of Grace and Seeking Peace: A Spiritual Journey from Worry to Trust, and a new volume coming in 2025 from OSV. The story of her daughter’s adoption was shared in Encountering Signs of Faith; Unexpected Journey with Sacramentals, the Saints, and the Abundant Grace of God (Ave Maria Press). She has also contributed to numerous books, including Our Friend Faustina ; the CPA award-winning The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers and Called by Name Daily Devotional for Catholic Women; and Living the Word Catholic Women’s Bible. She joyfully lives out her vocation as a deacon’s wife and the mother of three.
Key Points of Our Conversation* There are many different ways to pray. * God appreciates our efforts; we don’t need to be perfect. * The types of prayer we use will change and vary over time and depend on our life circumstances. * All prayer helps us know God better.
This week, choose a new prayer or type of prayer and pray it.
Learn more about prayer when you sign up for my newsletter!
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Knowing & Being KnownIn choosing how we relate to others, we start at the heart, that is, we start with believing the other to be very good and made in God’s image and likeness. This is a central tenet of our faith as Catholics and is the heart of our respect for human life. As human beings, we are all works in progress. Since this is the truth of the Lord’s relationship to us, why would it be any less true for someone else? If we stop at the fact that he sees us this way and don’t extend the same to others, we risk being egocentric and arrogant. We also call into question how much we believe in God’s unchanging love for us. Very quickly, we can become either an idol or insecure in the Lord’s love. Looking at others with God’s view creates in us a capacity for empathy, reverence, and respect of the other that we cannot attain any other way. This is a part of taking on God’s mind for creation.
The quote from Scottish author and theologian Ian Maclaren, “Be pitiful, for every man is fighting a hard battle,”1 encourages us to imitate how the Lord relates to each of us. Unfortunately, it’s too easy to assume we know what is going on with a person based on what we perceive on the outside. If we are going to look for a fundamental truth to guide our interactions with others, this is the safest one; we cannot possibly know what is going on inside a person based on their exterior. Many times we are not even fully aware of what is operating within us on the deepest level.
We relate to the people in our lives with differing degrees of intimacy and yet we can communicate the concept of knowing others as very good in simple yet powerful ways. If you don’t already do this, the next time you go to a store or a restaurant, look the person who is assisting you in the eye with the mindset that they are a person performing a service, not the service itself. They are not a means to an end. Smile. Ask them how they’re doing and truly listen to their response. It’s amazing how much a person is touched by being seen and heard as an individual.
We all need to be known and as we’ve discussed, healthy boundaries help us to safely navigate this. Remember our focus should be on being rather than doing. The same way the Lord called the apostles to be fishers of men, rather than to do the catching, it is our responsibility to see and hear others. We can’t necessarily make someone feel seen and heard or known to be very good. How another will respond to us is a matter of their view of themselves. What we can do is that which God has called us to, to reverence them and see them for the valued creation they are. This fosters connection, but we can only do our part.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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PrayerLet nothing disturb you,
Let nothing frighten you,
All things are passing away:
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things
Whoever has God lacks nothing;
God alone suffices.
— St. Teresa of Avila
Scripture
Jesus Calms a Storm at Sea, Mark 4:35-41
ReflectionHow about instead of asking Jesus to calm the storm we ask him to help us rest like he is? That’s my discussion on this episode!
And there are a few random thoughts about weather, moisturizer and my problem reading an eye chart. Enjoy!
Need a speaker? Let’s talk!
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Valuing & Being ValuedTo value another the way God values them means seeing them as they truly are, a treasure of immeasurable worth. People are not a means to an end. In other words, whether we agree or disagree with someone has nothing to do with their inherent value. I could disagree with someone’s opinions, beliefs, or actions, but it shouldn’t change the acceptance I have for them as a human being and the dignity with which I regard them. Remember, our dignity comes from the fact that God is who he is and that he showed his value for us when he purchased us with the price of his own Son.
It’s amazing what happens when we begin to see others in this light. It actually begins to change how we view ourselves. Suddenly, we’re more capable of realizing our own worth is unwavering. It doesn’t matter if we are right or wrong, perfect or imperfect. Reminding ourselves that our neighbor’s value doesn’t change helps us recognize the same is true of us. We begin to accept that truth at a deeper level. Recognizing this about others affords us greater objectivity and, in the long run, the lesson blesses our view of ourselves, as well. In a very real way, we begin to see the circumstances of the day as scenery on the journey to an ever-deepening reception of God’s gift of himself. Less and less is offensive. Less and less disturbs our peace. More and more is recognized as gift until all is seen as a personal, intimate self-gift of God.
There’s an ironic consequence of treating people with value regardless of if they agree or cooperate with us. It’s that they begin to agree and cooperate a lot more. When we are treated like our value is contingent on someone’s approval of us, it can cause us to shut down because that estimation is fundamentally not true and we know it intuitively, even if we don’t know it consciously. Remember, openness is a byproduct of having our boundaries respected, being valued, and being seen as good. We cannot make cooperation the goal. To do so sabotages the very point; we all have the same value no matter what.
Regardless of our best efforts, we can’t make each other feel valued and accepted. Once I worked with a client who was completely convinced I was judging and rejecting her. It couldn’t have been further from the truth. I had actually struggled with some things in very much the same way she did and felt great compassion for her. It pained me not to be able to alleviate her pain caused by her belief that I saw her with condemnation, but it was not within my ability to do so. The issue was the lenses through which she viewed herself. I had to stay in the place of being accepting and fight the temptation to try to control her. To force my acceptance on her would have violated her boundaries and would have been fighting a losing battle. It was helpful to remind myself that she could only connect with me to the extent she was connected to herself. In situations like that, we can trust that the Lord loves the other person way more than we possibly could and his ability to heal is infinitely greater.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 90–Summer Reading for the Working WomanDeanna Cauthen, the host of The Working Woman Radio Show, shares 10 of her favorite books to encourage summer reading for the working woman.
The nice thing about the summer is that most people usually take vacations during the summer, and this can be a great time to catch up on some reading that you may not have been able to do during the other months of the year.
The list that she shares is not in any particular order as far as preference is concerned.
So she encourages you to put your feet up, kick back, and take a little time to do some reading this summer.
Helpful Resources:The following are a list of the books that I mentioned on the podcast:The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
The Wisdom of Menopause by Christiane Northrup, MD
Emily Posts Complete Encyclopedia of Etiquette by Emily Post
Love is a Verb by Gary Chapman
Soothe Your Nerves by Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
The Boy Crisis by Warren Farrel, Ph. D and John Gray, Ph.D
The Power of a Praying Wife Stormie Omartian
Announcements The Elevate Talk ShowThe Mother/Daughter Talk Show that elevates your life.
The Elevate Talk Show wants to feature you on our show!Tell us a story about something you’ve done to elevate your life or someone else’s. It could be something you’ve done to better the life of a family member or friend, or a creative way you enhanced your home decor home. It could also be something you’ve done to improve your health like losing weight, and more.If you would like to be featured in our ‘Before We Go’ segment, share your story with us. To sign up, go to The Elevate Talk Show YouTube channel and subscribe. Then email us your stories and pictures to elevateytchannel@gmail.com.Also, become an Elevate! Facebook friend by visiting, https://www.facebook.com/cauthenproductions/and share your stories and pictures with us on our Facebook page.To view the Elevate! YouTube channel, go to Elevate!Also, if you live in DeKalb County, Georgia you can also listen to episodes of Comcast channel 25.The post Summer Reading for the Working Woman | Summer replay appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
God’s Will While Living The Gospel Podcast 18How can we find God’s will while living the gospel? Often when a member of a family receives a threatening or fatal medical diagnosis. The tendency in this situation, especially for the individual, is to devote themselves to putting everything in order. They may update their will, re-deed their property, even preplan their funeral. All of this is to ensure that their loved ones are well taken care of once they are gone.
Finding God’s will while living The Gospel can be seen in the last supper.
At the Last Supper Jesus does the same with his disciples. In his preplanning to physically leave them, he tells them the following things to remember and do: He tells them to remain in him, if they don’t they will not produce fruit because apart from him they can do nothing. If they remain in him they can ask for what they want and it will be done for them. If they keep the commandments they will remain in his love, especially the great commandment of loving God and loving one another. He tells them that they are his friends and he has given them everything the Father has given him…
“I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely. I gave them the word and the world hated them.” Then he tells them the world is going to hate them because they do not belong to the world. “because they do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. And I consecrate myself for them, so that they may be consecrated in truth”, see Jn. 17: 11-19.
God’s will while living the Gospel…God’s will while living the Gospel shows up in the consecration in this scripture means being set aside for the purposes of being a sacrificial love offering through suffering and death. Hatred here means to resist, plot against, persecute and kill. And they will do this because they do not know him or the Father. The world will hate them without cause. When this happens they will remember that he prepared them and told them that this would happen. However, he will send them the Holy Spirit and he will guide them and teach them all truth. He told them to take courage because he has conquered the world. They are told by him to remain committed, courageous, and merciful in the face of adversity, struggle, trial, suffering, and persecution. In this consecration, for the sake of the truth of the Gospel, his disciples will discover the will of the Father.
I was speaking to a close friend a short while ago and he, reflecting on the state of the world at the present time, referring to the mayhem in our post-modern world, he said that the world has become a very dangerous place to live. Many people undoubtedly are perceiving these same realities.
The question one may hear occasionally is, why is God allowing these things to take place? How does this situation reflect on the consideration of God’s will in our daily life? When we look at the world around us and take the time to reflect on the beautiful and wonderful world of creation, we can’t help to be deeply moved by the glorious wonder of God’s creating love. And the truth that we partner with God in the unfolding of his creative love.
How many gifts the good Lord has given us. We all have received many tremendous blessings both spiritual and temporal. Just in the recent years the many new discoveries in medicine and the rapid development of modern technologies. Original, personal, and social sin has deeply marred the beautiful world of creation which is an expression of God’s gracious love for us. This is the world of reality in which we live.
To counteract the broken reality of sin in the world, God’s plan is fulfilled in his beloved Son, Jesus, our Lord, and Savior. “We know that no one begotten by God commits sin, rather, God protects the one begotten by him, and so the evil one cannot touch him. We know that we belong to God, While the whole world is under the evil one. We know too, that the Son of God has come and has given us discernment to recognize the One who is true. And we are in the One who is true, for we are in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life”, see I Jn, 5: 18-20.
“Have no love for the world, nor the things that the world affords. If anyone loves the world, the Father’s love has no place in him, for nothing that the world affords comes from the Father. Carnal allurements, enticement for the eye, the life of empty show—all these are from the world. And the world with its seductions is passing away but the man who does God’s will endures forever”, see 1 Jn. 2:15.
What does it mean to leave go of the worldliness of modern reality and do God’s will in all things, especially and primarily in my daily life? If we give up our worldly way of life and begin to follow the ways of the Holy Spirit we surrender our own isolated way of life, our own isolated determination of our human life.
We then take on the supernatural likeness of Christ and imitate the life of Christ, living a life in the Holy Spirit who lives in us and is united to us. Then our nature is transformed so that we are no longer merely human beings, but also sons and daughters of the Father, spiritual human beings by reason of the share we have received in the divine nature. This makes us all one in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
We are one in mind and holiness, we are one through our communion in the sacred flesh of Christ and our sharing in the one Holy Spirit, see St. Cyril of Alexandria, Liturgy of the Hours, vol II, p. 873.
It is easily seen in the Scripture, that the Spirit changes those in whom he comes to dwell. He so transforms them that they begin to live a completely new kind of life.
“As we behold the glory of the Lord with unveiled faces, that glory, which comes from the Lord who is the Spirit, transforms us all into his own likeness, from one degree of glory to another. 2 Cor. 3: 18. And where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom.”
What does it mean to leave the world of modern reality and seriously look to change some things in our modern and post-modern life? The goal is being free from “the negative spirit of this world”, as we live our good and wonderful human life in this material world created in God’s love. The key goal is the seeking and doing the will of God.
It is probably one of the most ignored and neglected understanding of the truth of God’s will in our Christian growth. “Through the mercy of God, offer your bodies as a spiritual sacrifice pleasing to the Lord. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed in the renewal of your mind, in order to know what is good, pleasing, and perfect.”, see Rom. 12: 1-3 How can we know God’s will in our lives, if we don’t directly relate to attitudes, choices, decisions, behaviors, in the practical situations of our daily life?
“Just as the truth is in Jesus, “that you should put away the old self of the former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth”, see Eph. 4: 21-24. A fresh new spiritual way of thinking! Do we run the risk of mistaken opinions, disagreement’s, and criticism from others? Absolutely! Nevertheless, we really need to cut to the chase here. Can we identify the attitudes and the system of negative values which characterize modern thinking and acting? Which things are opposed to the revelation of God and his most precious will for those he loves?
For the sake of honoring God and loving our brothers and sisters, we should humbly try! The first step in this attempt is to identify some of the idols, false gods, and then look at some of the attitudes and behaviors which are antithetical or hostile to God and his will. And follow and obey what he wants for the nations of the world, and specifically for family life in the Church, and for each individual living in the world of our time.
Of course, it would be impossible to cover everything that may need to be mentioned, but I will attempt to identify some things that may stimulate some specific considerations for us. It would also be helpful if you think about some things that may easily come to you which I won’t be mentioning. These things may point out some areas in your own life which may need some attention in regard to, leaving the world. The Lord may give you some wisdom and understanding in growing in spiritual freedom as you attempt to do the Fathers will in your life, and in the lives for whom you may have some responsibility.
Identifying some idols and false gods in our society: St. Pope John Paul II came to the United States a decent number of times even before he became Pope. He really loved the American people and recognized the potential for American Christians to make a tremendous impact on the international scene in terms of proclaiming the Gospel and living by those values. One time a group of Americans were complaining about all the bad stuff on TV, and asked what should we do? His simple answer was, turn it off. He also took the time to warn American Christians that democracy without a religious base could easily become a new Totalitarianism, which he knew well because of his personal experience in the European situations.
These situations characterized a negative philosophical nihilism, a meaningless and emptiness of life without God, violent destruction of peoples, and two world wars. The leaders of this movement abandoned God and designed new false gods of atheistic humanism and abusive murderous control of individuals. As we today in this country remove God and his values from the American scene, we become victims by tolerating violent destructive behavior and obliterating the dignity and value of God-given human life. A recent article about the toxic destruction of being exposed to third degree of smoking which means living in places where people have smoked for years.
The theory is that individuals living there now are absorbing the toxic poison through their skin. Have we, with little thought bought into our societal values a destructive secular humanism, because we just absorb these attitudes and beliefs, as God’s will is ignored in society and in the media? The commercials on television and movies in a very charming manner promote or present a way of life on TV, which highlights the negative values of unbridled materialism, compulsive buying and spending, liberal sexual behavior, immodest dress and behavior, and programs that foster violence, indecency, killing, materialism, indecent exposure, and paranormal forms of the occult etc.
Ingesting these attitudes unconsciously over a period of time actually changes our way of thinking and our value system. It gets us used to ignoring God and his commandments and not feeling guilty about it as we give in to an inordinate and quiet toleration of all things in society. Do we allow our children to have unsupervised access to watch whatever they want, by having televisions in their rooms? And carry their iPhone computers and TV’s all day long and into the night? Democracy without God leads to bondage and the loss of the dignity of the human person. We see many forms and degrees of destructive behavior very evident in the life of our beloved young people. Many feeling lost and abandoned by others, and open to do destructive things to themselves and in some cases to others.
May We Pray!
Dear Lord grant us the grace to love you with our whole heart, mind, and soul. In love and truth, we seek to know and do your will. Help us, oh merciful Lord to leave the “negative spirit of the world” which fosters destructive behavior and darkness of mind. Give us a Spirit-led discernment of the worldliness of modern life, that we may have the light of your Father and the Holy Spirit unfolding your will in our lives. And grant us purity of heart to do your loving will for ourselves and our brothers and sisters for whom you have asked us to serve. In Jesus Name, we pray! Amen.
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Who are the peacemakers? Are you a peacemaker, and do you find yourself in that role? What does the Holy Bible say? This podcast discusses being a peacemaker and how we can all strive to do our part.
Peacemakers ~ EpisodeIf you look up the word online, you will find that being a peacemaker is not a good thing. In all fairness, this information came from a search using the latest AI technology, artificial intelligence. There have always been computer programs that search for keywords and match websites with the words. However, the latest technology gives a synopsis of what is found in literal seconds, which needs to be corrected. One of the reasons is technology does not have a heart; a human element is missing.
My search showed me that a peacemaker is drawn to those who disagree and are typically worn out or frustrated, and it is a person who does not take care of themselves. While all of that can be correct, making a blanket statement in some people is not always good. It is said that peacemakers are not assertive. How can you be a peacemaker without speaking up and trying to see things from different sides? That requires diplomacy. Sure, not everyone is diplomatic, but it is a gift if you are. I try to see things from both sides outside my family, and the frustration comes when I can not understand an evil motivation. I can not computer things like abortion on demand or late-term abortion. In truth, I can not understand abortion at all, the killing of a life. In some states, legally. As one popular television personality said, he was for abortion. He agreed it was murder, and he said he could live with that thought and urged abortion advocates to embrace that terminology.
Wow. Our world is a place where evil is recognized and allowed. And we should all be okay with it—are you? We must pray, dear friends, because there is good news. The good news is that Jesus reigns now and forever, and evil has no hold over those who profess Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior (if they live holy and, in my case, sacramental lives).
When we discuss the word peace in a religious context, we are talking about a feeling that comes from an action. This can be caused by an action on our part, being in a quiet room, reading a scripture verse, and meditating on the meaning, which comes from God’s grace. However, a peacemaker can refrain from using words that can incite or cause problems or dissension. A peacemaker can see a situation that has gotten out of control and turn it around into one that is diffused, forcing those in disagreement to agree or compromise.
Recently, I watched someone do this effortlessly. This person took a volatile situation filled with misunderstanding and frustration and, in a few sentences, told each of those affected what the other was trying to say diplomatically. I was impressed. It caused me to think and consider the idea of being a peacemaker. Who are those who strive for peace, and how are they rewarded? As the scriptures tell us – we are told, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Wow! I want to be called a child of God.
I have to admit that I have not always been a peacemaker outside my family. It is sometimes easy to get others riled up, and it is under the guise of teasing, just having fun, or trying to make a point. I realized that it did more harm than good, and while I am not being specific here in my examples, I believe we can all look at our own lives and find situations where we could have used our words more effectively and in a way that would do good rather than harm.
Being a peacemaker is a good thing. In the Bible, we have Christ’s wonderful words when he was surrounded by the crowds. The Beatitudes contain words we should read daily (read on air).
These are words we should read daily. I remember reading these words back in my smart-aleck days and thinking, well, I’m no meek or humble; I’m in trouble! Friends, I was laughing at myself here and kidding around, but I had much work to do on my spiritual journey! It has been quite the journey, and the Lord is still working with me—praise you, Jesus!
Being a peacemaker in this world means making a conscious effort to examine your words, what you are saying, and how they impact the lives of others. Words matter. (More on air.)
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What does trust mean?What does the word trust mean? “A firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of someone or something.”
Who do you trust? What things do you place your trust in? Has someone ever broken your trust? Have you ever caused a person to stop trusting you? When we think about trust we see how easy it is to both take it for granted and abuse it at the same time. Maybe we do that with God.
Our human relationships often mirror our relationship with God, until we learn that God is not
like people. Thank God! He is far more forgiving, all-knowing, loving, faithful, giving, loving, wise, patient, kind, and and and, fill in your word, than we are in our dealings with each other and with him. Yet he is faithful to us, always allowing us to return to him when we seek him.
Scripture* Do you have a firm belief in God being reliable? Deuteronomy 32:4 * Do you know that he is Truth? John 14:6-7 * Do you know that he has great ability? Luke 8:24-25 * Do you know his strength? Psalm 73:26
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Openness from OthersA number of years ago, I was supervising a team of therapists, and at the end of the workday, I received a call from one of them wanting to consult about a teenager she was treating in a weeklong intensive program. The therapist said she didn’t think the child was appropriate for the week of treatment and thought she would need more time to build rapport. She told me for their three-hour session that day the girl had insisted she didn’t believe in emotions. She said that she thought they were an artificial idea human beings had invented. The teen very much needed intensive trauma work. Sadly, she had been in counseling for over a decade at that point, all with little benefit.
I asked the therapist if she would mind if I attended their session the next day. She readily agreed. When the client came into the room and saw me with her therapist her eyes widened. She thought she was in trouble. I simply said I was her therapist’s supervisor, and I had heard they had a difficult session the day before and wanted to see if I could help. I told her I had gone through the same treatment years prior, expecting no relief, and instead was greatly helped. I went on to add that I had looked at her chart and knew she’d been in therapy since she was a toddler, which meant we, as mental health professionals, had failed her or she wouldn’t still be struggling so. I added that I couldn’t imagine she would want to tell her story to one more person. She sat still and silent. Finally, she asked, “Are you a unicorn?” I had no idea what she meant. She said, “You came skipping in here throwing trauma sprinkles and rainbows and suddenly I want to do this.” I realized she was connecting to me and so I knew I needed to spend a few more minutes casually chatting with her and her therapist to get them comfortable with each other before I left the room so they could get to work.
What I learned from that experience is that openness is a byproduct. It can’t be a goal. The young therapist was so interested in the client cooperating with treatment that she was, metaphorically, attempting to bash the young lady’s door down, forcing her to accept it. She was asking her to be open, but all the while, she was sending the message that she would have value if only she would participate in the therapy. On the other hand, I hadn’t used a technique of some sort on her. I was simply relating to her the way I would have wanted to be treated. If I wanted her to be honest, it only made sense that I be honest, too. In expressing to her that I understood her, acknowledged her value regardless of if she chose to participate in the program, and respected her boundaries, she readily opened her heart and ended up doing fantastic work through the rest of the week.
It would be a drastically different story if I had gone into the treatment room and said the same things but with the goal of getting her to cooperate, as opposed to the goal of connecting. She, most likely, would have been able to sense a lack of consistency or sincerity and would have walled off her heart, and all for good reason. I wouldn’t have been trustworthy if I had made treatment a goal. She had to be the goal. I had to surrender potential failure in front of one of my team, but it didn’t matter. I couldn’t matter at that point – not to her. I had to know I mattered to the Lord and to myself. It was my job to communicate that she mattered. I didn’t really fully understand how important what I was doing was and didn’t know why she so quickly decided to engage in treatment until I prayed about it after the session. Through that meeting, the Lord taught me openness is a byproduct rather than an end in and of itself. That lesson changed how I aspire to relate.
Whether or not others choose to open at a given time or in a particular circumstance, reverencing them is an honor because it is an opportunity to imitate how the Lord relates to us. When others do open up to us, it is profound and humbling and deserves to be met with reverence and respect.
Action Step
Take advantage of time in a store, restaurant, or gathering and note what fosters openness among people and what tends to shut people down. See if you notice how boundaries, acceptance (value) and being known come into play.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Testimony of Alexandra AndrewsAlexandra is a wife and mother of two young boys and a Pro-Life speaker who shares her testimony as an Abortion Survivor. Alexandra reveals the ways in which God carried out His plan for her life, to bring her out of an orphanage in Russia so she could spread the message of the Gospel. Alexandra has a powerful message of mercy and forgiveness as she healed from the rejection of being unwanted and the low self esteem she carried for many years.
Alexandra shares what she learned from a priest by attending a retreat and other influential individual’s wisdom that she has gleaned from in her journey of faith and hope. She applied the knowledge in her own life to forgive her birth mother and overcome the obstacles. She received true freedom, forgiveness, and love that only the Lord can give through His abundant mercy. She wants people to know that they have experienced her similar situation and that there is hope for them, too.
Alexandra is an active member of her Parish, a Registered Nurse, and a Creighton Model Fertility Care Practitioner Intern.
This testimony was given to the Rochester, NY Chapter in April of 2021.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Did you know there are questions Christians ask? What are they, and how does this pertain to you whether you are walking with the Lord or don’t know Him? In this episode, we explore this idea of questions we should ask and ponder.
Questions Christians Ask ~ Episode 303I ask questions all the time. It is the nature of a teacher to ask, or it is part of my makeup anyway. When my kids misbehaved, I asked them questions to see exactly why they were stubbornly refusing the rules or if they had a different motivation. My husband, an athlete, would ask my children, “What were you thinking?” when they were playing sports and messed up. We ask questions each day, of ourselves or others. How many of us use popular search engines online on our computers or phones to search for answers to our questions?
Besides typical questions we ask, there are those that are deep.
- What is the meaning of life?
- Why am I here?
- What is my purpose?
- Who am I?
- What do I believe?
Many of these questions, while asked by the greatest minds of all times, philosophers, and others throughout the centuries, all stemmed from a lack of purpose, knowledge, and faith.
So, it should not be startling that, as Christians, we should also ask questions. “Does God exist?”
If we are honest with ourselves, we have all wondered if God exists at some point. Sure, we can attribute that thought to the evil one, but all people struggle with the idea, “What if it is not true?” at some point in their lives.
But, “What if it is true?”
The worst that can happen if you follow a Christian life is that you may die, and there is no heaven. The worst that can happen if you deny Christ exists is eternal damnation. Don’t take my word for it, look it up! However, if you don’t believe the Bible is true, that may be problematic.
Questions Christians Ask ~ Leading a Virtuous LifeFor those of us who have faith, we know that God does not force anyone to believe, however, He is clear in the scriptures that there is only one way to heaven. What is the way? Deny yourself, pick up the cross, and follow Him. Denying yourself means leaving sin behind. Picking up your cross deals with facing the trials in life (that we all face at one time or another). No one who is deeply in sin is happy. Sin makes a person miserable.
How do we know God asks us to acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior? And, should we fear? Of course not, but be warned. Let’s read Matthew 10:32-33 (Read on air)
Mark 8:38 (Read on air)
Sounds like that verse is very applicable today.
John 3:36 is a verse we know. (Read on Air)
God is loving, kind, full of grace, and ready to forgive. God is also righteous. Often we think God must act the way we expect Him to while we get a pass. We expect more out of the Almighty than we are willing to do ourselves.
The ultimate question we should ask is are we ready to meet our maker? Are we ready to face the Lord? Many of us are not. We each need to strive through God’s grace to avoid sin. That is why we pray for God’s grace. God has given us a conscience for this very reason. Many know in their hearts that God exists but are not ready to follow Him on His terms.
At the beginning of this podcast, I listed some age-old questions. Let’s look at these questions in light of Christianity. How would you answer them?
- What is the meaning of life?
- Why am I here?
- What is my purpose?
- Who am I?
- What do I believe?
I’m not going to answer these questions for you, but I do know how I would answer them. This is one of those times that I really wish we were all in a room together so we could discuss everyone’s answers! Take some time to truly think about these questions, and if you are struggling with the answers, go to the scriptures and read them, especially the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. There you will find the answers and that my friends should give us joy. May God be praised now and forever.
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Openness with OthersBeing open with others is something that requires great courage. Hopefully, by this point, we can begin to put the pieces of connection together and see how they interplay. We have looked at how having a foundation of being known deeply and treasured dearly by God gives us the highest authority upon which to base our identity. Also, we have discussed viewing other people as precious to the Lord and not basing our contentment on their thoughts or actions. It is from this vantage point we can engage with others, knowing their response to us does not make or break us, no matter how truly painful it might be. Another’s actions toward us do not affect our value in any way, because we have inherent worth as children of God.
Being able to be vulnerable with another is far easier when we have grown, and continue to grow, in connection to God and ourselves. It’s also important to remember that trust is a process. The same way we grow in trust with the Lord and with ourselves, we also grow in our ability to navigate a relationship with another person. This is not accomplished at one time, but is a process that takes time. As discussed, we will generally begin a relationship by sharing something good about ourselves. If we are compassionately received, we may venture into sharing one of our less glorious moments. Perhaps we even come to share an area of hurt, struggle, or shame. This is the process of growing in relationship. Interestingly, scripture actually tells us not to trust others (Micah 7:5-6). If we are looking for another person not to fail us, we will be disappointed, because every person is as human as we are. Only God will not break our trust. Instead, we should look for noble intentions and efforts at consistent good will from other people, and understand that there may be times when they fail us out of their own human frailty.
What are the signs that another person wills us good? Does the other person truly know us, or make efforts to do so? Do they treat us in a way that shows us they value us for who we are or do we feel used as a means for them to get their desired goal? Do they respect our physical, emotional, and spiritual boundaries or do they send the message we are not allowed to have limits? If we see red flags in any of these outer layers of connection, we may want to tread the waters of vulnerability very carefully and not have high expectations for healthy connection with them at this time. It may be risky to share sensitive information with them in hopes of being known. Remember when others aren’t able to be present to truly hear and see us, recognize our value as children of God, or respect the boundaries we have put in place, often it is not personal. Rather, it is a reflection of what they’re capable of at the time.
Finally, in all peer relationships, there ought to be reciprocity – give and take. It doesn’t mean we keep score, and certainly some days are better than others. Patience and understanding with others is essential. We don’t want to engage with others with a constant scrutiny of every interaction, the same way we would fail if we were judged so harshly. Given the ebb and flow of life and circumstances, these factors of connection can be guidelines to help us avoid drama and hurt in relationships. With practice we will grow in greater peace and fulfillment from the Lord’s indwelling presence, and that which we receive will flow from us out to others.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 20 – The Passion of Jesus ChristIn this 20th episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, reflects on how the life of the Church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice of our Blessed Lord’s Passion and death and how the sacraments are powers that come forth from the risen body of Jesus and are always life-giving.
James recounts how The Passion commenced shortly after The Last Supper when Jesus made his wedding vows in a deeply personal act, “This is my body which is given for you.” He details how our Lord, in his immense suffering, was not only burdened by the horrors of His impending Passion and crucifixion, but also by a profound sense of abandonment and sorrow over humanity’s sinfulness, offering a comforting understanding of our own struggles.
James further explains how we are subject to trials throughout our lives. Amidst our trials, however, and even while heaven’s assistance seems far off, we should look to Getsemene. The heavenly Father, who knows all and eternity, knows what is best for us. “Not my will, but yours be done.”
James also relays how the Apostles suffered during The Passion. However, their responses demonstrate human frailty, as Jesus said to Peter, “The spirit Is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Only by relying on Jesus, not ourselves, can we conquer our will and receive transforming graces. However, despite the Apostle’s desertion during The Passion, Jesus’ love and forgiveness continue to follow and unite the Apostles, leading them to a deeper understanding and gladly pick up their crosses to do the Father’s will.
This is the 20th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
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Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
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At church, you often hear that God is with you, but do you really believe that is true? How would you lead your life if you thought about the Lord walking beside you daily? And, should you think of the Almighty in such a personal way? In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz explores these thoughts.
God IS With You ~ Episode 302I’m a note-taker, even at church. Sometimes, after prayer, I look through my notes to see if something resonates in my heart. This struck me as I read the words: “God is with you…” Take a few moments to consider this. How does it make you feel?
More importantly, do you believe it? Do you truly believe that God is with You?
Matthew 28:16-20 – The Great Commission (Read on air)
From the mouth of Jesus, friends! “…Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Now do you believe? If you are a Bible believer your answer should be a resounding, “Heck, Yeah!” If you are not a Bible believer, I can understand your hesitancy. How can you become a believer? Renounce sin, follow Christ, and at your first opportunity, receive Baptism in the Name of the Father, the Name of the Son, and the Name of the Holy Spirit.
Receiving Christ into your hearts should bring you peace. And, considering God the Son being with you should bring you hope and happiness. What a wonderful thing to consider.
God Is With You And Gives You HopeWe have such hope in our faith, don’t we? We may be challenged to lead better lives and to choose better options in our prayer and spiritual lives, but truly, there is hope. There is always hope when we lean upon the Lord, and realize that He is here in our midst. And we are assured that Jesus cares about us and our needs in a personal way. We have verse after verse in the Bible about how Jesus spoke to the common people, he lived a humble life. He could have come as a prince of men, but instead, He came as the Prince of Peace, the Prince of the heavenly realm.
Jesus walked among men, and through His example, we see how to live. As we reflect on these thoughts, how do you feel God is calling you today? He does call us each day to a deeper walk, but many times we are so busy we ignore this call. We know the call is there (search your hearts) but we often say in our minds, later. I will get to it later.
Later may never come! Do it today. Do it now! Recommit your life to Christ, thank Him for being with you, ask Him into your heart. Ask Him to give you the strength, the grace, and the joy that comes from doing what you should do all the time. If we strive for the best and we fall short that is better than striving to do the minimum and falling short of our goal. No one said following Christ is easy, but it truly is rewarding.
Do you need hope? Do you need strength? Do you need God’s grace? Ask.When we struggle, we often forget to pray. We are so bogged down with the problem at hand that our minds race to come up with solutions, or for some, to ignore the problem and carry on, or worse, shut down. We must persevere and consider that God’s word is truth. When Jesus rose into heaven He did not leave us orphans, He sent the Holy Spirit to infill the disciples to empower and strengthen them to face death.
John 14:1-2 (Read on air)
14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe[a] in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?
Then read John 14:15-25, I will read you a portion of it…
Then in verses 25-28
Jesus taught the disciples, these simple men, that the first thing they must do is believe, not let their hearts be troubled, and be fearless because God is in control. This tells us also the same thing. God is here; He is in our midst, and we should not fear. Amen, and Amen!
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What is Metanioa?It is change, a conversion toward God. In the book, Our Lady of Hoy Messes, Getting Real with God in Dive Bars and Confessionals by Leticia Ochoa Adams she says this about metanoia:
“Metanoia is not just any change in any direction, but a radical 180-degree turn in the opposite direction. That change is not easy because it begins with the acknowledgment that you are going the wrong way. It is not easy because it is not done once in a life and then everything is fine. Life has a lot of 180-degree turns. Healing, repentance, and conversion happen over and over in life. Just when I think I’m going in the right direction, I learn something about myself and have to repent all over again.”
Scripture
“Turn away your face from my sins; blot out all my iniquities.A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit.Do not drive me from before your face, nor take from me your holy spirit.Restore to me the gladness of your salvation; uphold me with a willing spirit.”: Psalm 51:11-14
Links for this episodeHoly Spirit PrayerConnect with me about speaking Pray with Psalm 51 and ask God where you need repentance. Invite the Holy Spirit in when you begin your prayer time.
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Testimony of Laurie WalshLaurie Walsh is a retired therapist, probation officer, and published author. She is the youngest of three girls. Laurie was raised in a small Montana town, attending Catholic Schools and the local University. She shares her story of being rescued by the Lord from addictions and sins that caused deep depression in her life.
Laurie began her interest in working with people early on when she and her husband managed a state group home where over a three-year period, they fostered 58 troubled teens. Laurie and her husband “H” relocated to Arizona in 1987 where she earned a master’s degree in counseling and human development. For the next 35 years, she worked with adults and teens specializing in cases of molestation, domestic violence, trauma, and addiction. Laurie was the founder and coordinator of the Phoenix Magnificat Chapter for 8 yrs. and since 2018 has been the Region 3 Communications Representative of the International Ministry.
Laurie has been a featured speaker and trainer at various parishes, conferences, and diocesan events in the U.S. Laurie’s greatest joy is giving her time to honor Our Mother Mary.
This testimony was given to the North County San Diego Chapter in May 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Respecting the Boundaries of OthersEveryone is unique and has their own body, mind, and spirit. Each of us has the responsibility for setting our own boundaries in these areas. We all are required to obey the laws set out by rightful authority (not going against our informed consciences). Within those parameters, we are all called to be good stewards. Our first duty of stewardship is to honor the gift of self that God has given to each of us. Each of us has a different personality, temperament, and life experiences that come together to form who we are in the present moment. Since we are endowed with the dignity of being made in God’s image and likeness, each one of us is deserving of respect. We must regard others with the honor with which they are divinely endowed.
Boundaries provide us a sense of self and safety. Simply put, there’s a place where we stop and another starts. We don’t have the right to cross any lines in regard to another person’s body, emotions, or spiritual life. Each person has the indwelling presence of the Blessed Trinity and so is sacred. We need to be invited in by the other person. One lesson I’ve learned as a therapist is that people are not able to hear answers to questions they haven’t yet asked. Trying to force them to do so can do personal and relational damage. The same way we would not desecrate the Eucharist, we ought not violate the boundaries of another, since each person is made in God’s own image and likeness and is precious to him.
There are two fundamental emotions: love and fear. Scripture tells us that love drives away fear (1 John 4:18). As we respect the boundaries of others, what they need to feel safe, we are behaving toward that person in a loving way. Even with the best of intentions, we can cross another’s boundaries. Unfortunately, this can easily happen in the name of religion. It’s easy to convince ourselves that our expression of zeal is for the other person’s good. We actually work contrary to his grace in another when we try to force, manipulate, coerce, or guilt them into something. Doing so, especially in God’s name, can cause another person to shut down, build walls, or make vows against the godly message or even toward God himself.
It actually makes the most sense to be grateful to others when they have clear boundaries. It lets us know what they need in order to feel safe, respected, and loved, and isn’t that how we are called to treat them? It can often be humbling to accept another person’s boundaries, but it isn’t our job to change them. When we do respect the boundaries another person has set, we are truly valuing that person and not making their worth about our desired result. This fosters true connection and allows us to remain an incarnation of God’s love for them, and as such, a vehicle of his grace. It can be difficult to grant each other free will, but in his infinite wisdom that is what God has given each of us. And are we not called to imitate the Lord?
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Episode 19 – Blessed Virgin MaryIn this 19th episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, explores the unique gifts God bestowed on the Blessed Virgin Mary as the ‘chosen one.’ He also discusses how it is the Father’s plan to incorporate all his earthly sons and daughters into the Blessed Trinity—the salvation of souls.
James explains how the Lord, in his Divine Providence, chooses to work within human limitations. Every human has a destiny to achieve in the divine plan—a vocation accepted or rejected as God loves but never forces his will.
When we honor the holy heroes—the saints—we are not just celebrating their achievements, but also the power and love God has manifested in them. For without God, their accomplishments would have been nothing.
James also discusses the Old Testament and Mary’s unique role from the very dawn of civilization and the ‘first gospel,’ which foreshadows the future Messiah to the graces given to Mary in order to fulfill her unique role.
This is the 19th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Blessed Virgin Mary appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Blessed Assurance – Episode 178There are few things in life we have assurance in but with the Lord, we have the blessed assurance that He is there for us. In this episode, we look at the ways that we know, that we know, that we know that God is in charge and there for us.
I’d love for you to visit my website MediaAngels.com and to look at some of my books, for example, a book that will help kids with faith: Print version or download: A Few Minutes with God plus study guide
Great for summer reading: The Truth Seekers Mystery Series – Entire Set and Study Guides
And, my book that tells how one big mistake translates into three more blessings — One More Child: Book
UnknownsSo many things in life are unknown. In fact, each day is like an adventure we never know what to expect or what we will find. Even if we have everything planned and scheduled the unexpected can throw us off. In fact, this happens to me all of the time. What about your life? Is it predictable? Or, like many do you have unexpected surprises (not the good kind) that take away your peace and sometimes even your joy. My daughter reminded me recently that in my quest for making sure that things go according to plans (mine not necessarily God’s) I tend to rush things. Recently something was not turning out the way I had hoped and she reminded me that it was God’s will and not mine that needed to take a front and center role. And, she is right.
What is the ultimate goal in our lives? The eternal and the salvation of our souls. Not what goes the way we hoped or planned and definitely not what we think should happen rather than what does actually happen. Sure, we can still plan and we can still hope. Hopefully, we are praying with a focus on what is truly important
There is blessed assurance in:1. Eternal life for those who follow the Lord. John 10:28 states – I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 2. God’s enduring love – Psalm 107:1 – Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever… 3. Unfailing love – Psalm 36:7 – How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. 4. Faith without sight. We know that we know that we know that God is there for us: 1 Peter 1:8-9 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 5. God is always with us. Zephaniah 3:17 – The Lord your God is with you, he is might to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Read these scriptures and study them.Write then in a prayer journal. Look them up and the verses that surround them and tell me how you feel after you read them after you allow the words to permeate your heart, and after you rest in the assurance, the blessed assurance that you are not allowed. By opening yourself up to the love of God you will realize that any pain we have or disappointments are already known by the Lord.
When we have hardship and disappointments we typically learn from these experiences.It is after the fact that we realize the growth and the lessons learned. Of course in the midst of the struggles we won’t see this nor will we look at the situation with fondness. None of us want to struggle and hurt. But just as we grow we see that there is no way we would learn what we now know without this effort. This love of God and his provision and this assurance allows us to expand our horizons and to understand that with the Lord we can come as we are.
There are no illusions or false faces we put on because God knows us better than we know ourselves.We can live our lives trying to do the best that we can but the assurance we have is the safety net that is God’s love for us and His providence. We can place our trust in His capable hands, recognizing that He has plans for us. These plans will unfold if we simply seek His guidance. As Christians, we invite Him into our hearts, yet we often forget to invite Him into our daily lives.
The ultimate goal?Heaven and we can be assured, John 14:6 – Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” What a blessed assurance our salvation is to us as we traverse this obstacle course of the life in which we live avoiding the traps, going around the hardships, and learning from our mistakes.
Let Us Pray –I praise you and thank you my God for you are good and gracious. Lord, I trust in you and realize that all that I have and am is known by you… I can rest, rest assured that you are there for me and that in my times of need you are holding me up, even if I do not feel it. Thank you, Lord, for loving me unconditionally. Thank you for loving those I care for and I ask a special blessing for the following… dear Lord please hear my petitions and even those I did not mention, and I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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God’s not Dead was a popular song a few years back. And he certainly is not dead, but very much alive. As are we. How often do we think about a relationship with him? If we believe in him and love him, then a desire to have a relationship follows.
Prayer is a Living RelationshipThe desire to know God and understand God and be closer to God grows as our faith does. Prayer is what we need to grow closer to God. It is spending time with him. Spending time with people is how we grow in our relationships with our friends physically with us, so why not do the same with God?
Contemplation, Ignatian StyleWhat is it? a communion in which the Holy Trinity conforms man, the image of God, “to his likeness.” * the Father strengthens our inner being with power through his Spirit “that Christ may dwell in (our) hearts through faith” and we may be “grounded in love” * also turns its gaze on the mysteries of the life of Christ; we learn the “interior knowledge of our Lord,” the more to love him and follow him. Ignatius of Loyola* * the Holy Spirit makes the mystery of Christ come alive in contemplative prayer so that our charity will manifest it in our acts
What does it mean to enter into contemplative prayer?We “gather up” the heart, recollect our whole being under the prompting of the Holy Spirit, abide in the dwelling place of the Lord which we are, awaken our faith in order to enter into the presence of him who awaits us. We let our masks fall and turn our hearts back to the Lord who loves us, so as to hand ourselves over to him as an offering to be purified and transformed.
How to Pray Contemplative Prayer1. Bless yourself and begin with a prayer; call on the Holy Spirit 2. Sit in silence, placing yourself in the presence of God, settle your mind and soul 3. Ask the Lord to give you a specific grace or state a prayer request 4. Read the scripture passage once or twice to get the general sense of it, put it aside and close your eyes 5. Place yourself in the passage; are you watching the scene or a part of it as a person who interacts with Jesus? Do not decide ahead of time, rather, wait and see what rises up in you 1. 1. Allow the story to unfold before you (what do you hear, see, smell, notice?) 2. Allow your imagination freedom 3. Pay attention to your feelings during prayer 6. Have a conversation with God 1. Talk about what happened 2. Ask God what it means 3. Listen to what He says 4. End with the Our Father 5. Journal your encounter; even a few sentences help to process what occurred 7. What word or words touched you during the prayer time? 8. What feelings did the prayer evoke in you? 9. What do you sense God is saying to you or where is He leading you?
Scripture Passages Luke 19:1-10; John 15:1-11; Acts 2:1-4
Need some prayer support?Contact me and let me know how I can help!
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Testimony of Fr. Robert CavalierFr. Robert’s priestly call has its origin in an experience of the sacrament of Penance and its growth and continuation in movements in the church that have formed since the Second Vatican Council. He witnesses to the truth that all things are possible with God. The faith journey God has led him on is one of ongoing personal conversion and service to the people of God. Highlights will be shared that are out in the uniqueness of a French Catholic heritage in the New Orleans and bayou areas of Louisiana.
Fr. Robert Cavalier is a priest of the Archdiocese of New Orleans who has served in numerous parishes and other assignments for almost 52 years. He has taken an active role in many ministries throughout his vocation, Marriage Encounter, Pro-Life, Rachel’s Vineyard, Grace and Mercy Healing ministry, and Spiritual Direction, pilgrimages, and worked closely with Immaculee’ Libagiza and Kitty Cleveland in their perspective ministries.
Our Lady of Mepkin is his most dear image of our Blessed Mother which is in the Trappist monastery of the same name in South Carolina. Currently serving as resident chaplain for the Teresian Sisters in Covington, he is also chaplain of the Magnificat Chapter in Mandeville, LA.
This testimony was given to the West St. Tammany, LA Chapter in May 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Fr. Robert Cavalier appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Boundaries for OthersGood fences make good neighbors.
– Robert Frost
As a therapist, I’ve noticed that not many people, at least not many who come to therapy, have been taught good things about boundaries. In fact, some people have been directly or indirectly sent very negative messages about them. Many have been given the idea boundaries are a sign of entitlement, artificial walls, or unhealthy distance. Others have set boundaries only to have them continually criticized and have been shamed for them. Still others have never been taught there is such a thing as setting physical, emotional, and spiritual limits, much less that doing so is a gift for themselves and others. Boundaries play a huge role in healthy communication and relationships.
When discussing or setting boundaries with others, it is best to do so in a time of calm rather than conflict. This makes it easiest for peaceful communication and minimizes the need for defensiveness. People learn to relate to us the way they do based on what boundaries we do or don’t establish. When we realize we need to change or establish boundaries with someone, it can be a humbling experience. Being clear is essential, so the other person knows what we are comfortable with and what we aren’t. All the while, clarity must be achieved without neglecting charity. That might sound like, “I’m uncomfortable when you say or do (x).” The other person may readily accept your boundary and apologize and then the air is clear. Others may insist on their way and further discussion is needed. Fundamentally, we have a responsibility to communicate how we are okay with being treated and how we aren’t. Otherwise, we’re relying on others to guess what we’re thinking, which is a setup for disaster and is not fair to either party. Most often, people have good intentions and simply aren’t aware of our needs. We are all so different.
There may be times when someone may try our boundaries. It may be intentional or unintentional; regardless, we don’t have to be upset by such interactions once we are aware of our responsibility to have healthy boundaries. It is natural for people to forget that the boundaries have changed and behave the way they are used to. They may simply need a reminder. The more you see boundaries as a gift for the other person, the more setting and maintaining them becomes easier.
Setting boundaries used to be difficult for me, but over the years it has become much easier. A number of years ago I went to a dentist who tried to pressure me into having elective work done which I didn’t want. During a dental appointment, I stated my desire and my rationale. When he pushed the issue at the same visit, I reiterated my wishes. He proceeded to tell his assistant to do a panoramic x-ray of my mouth to see if I was a candidate for the work he was trying to pressure me to have. She put the lead apron over me and was moving the x-ray machine into place. My immediate thought was, “He is older, and a doctor, and so maybe I should do what he’s suggesting.” Thankfully, that thought only lasted a couple of seconds. The next moment, it came to me that since I am an adult and it is my mouth, I have a right to have my wishes respected. Even if I was wrong, I had the right to be wrong. I respectfully removed the x-ray apron and handed it back to the assistant and very calmly told the doctor it wasn’t going to work for me to treat with him. I calmly got up from the chair and left without any drama. That experience was a personal victory and stands out as a positive memory. I learned my safety and peace aren’t contingent on the respect others have for my boundaries. The process of deepening connection to God and myself brought me to the point of being able to respond in such a way.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us your children, and for your faithful, unfailing love. Help us all to know that you desire that we live together in love and peace, and that you give us the grace to bring your kingdom to the world in who we are and what we do each day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 18 – Celibacy and PurgatoryIn this 18th episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses the spiritual aspects of celibacy and how it is connected with the sacrament of matrimony and the Church’s teaching on Purgatory.
Celibacy is the voluntary vow to remain unmarried and to practice sexual abstinence. The Church teaches that all the ordained ministers, except permanent deacons, are typically chosen from among men of faith who live a celibate and intend to remain celibate for the sake of the Kingdom of God for the rest of their lives. (Mathew Chapter 19).
Jim explains that those who faithfully live their celibate vocations proclaim that Christ has come, the Kingdom is here, and we live it now. Jesus does not command celibacy but rather offers it as an exception to the general vocation, which is to marry. Pope John Paul II said celibacy is a gift, a charismatic sign—a grace and a personal choice made for the Kingdom of God. James further discusses fidelity and fruitfulness in celibacy, union with God, and human marriage.
In discussing Purgatory, a word that means “cleansing,” James shares that Purgatory is where those who die in God’s grace and friendship go. While ensuring their eternal salvation, those souls in Purgatory cannot enter heaven until they are purified. God forgives sin, but as evident in sacred scripture, temporal punishment is necessary before entering heaven. James further discusses mortal sin, venial sins, and their consequences.
This is the 18th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Celibacy and Purgatory appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Allow God ~ Episode 301Allow God in, allow God to use you, and let God’s love penetrate your heart. I’m sure you’ve heard all of these things and lots more if you’ve been a Christian for any time, but how do you allow God? Truly? In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz discusses her struggles and victories.
Consider this: the Creator of the universe, the Almighty God, has given us the incredible gift of free will. He allows us to choose, to say yes or no. He even allows us to take the driver’s seat in our lives. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself, how’s that working out for you? Reflect on the times when you’ve chosen your own path instead of surrendering to God’s will.
How did that work out for you? I can tell you it didn’t work out well for me!
You may have seen pictures of allowing Jesus to be a driver in our car, the car symbolizing our lives. We are the passengers, and we allow Him to take the wheel. Whenever we get ahead of the Lord’s plans for our lives, things begin to fall apart, even if they are well-meaning. Then, we need to stop, re-evaluate, and make another plan.
Take a sheet of paper or your prayer journal and write the words “Allow God” as your heading. Once you’ve done that, begin with prayer and ask the Lord how you need to allow Him into your life more deeply. Take some time for this activity; I promise it will change your life.
When we allow God in, it may be painful at first. We may need to purge some of the baggage we’ve carried around with us, some of us for years. We may need to forgive those who have hurt us, and we may need to shed a few tears.
Your experience may be different. You may find yourself set free, feel a weight lifted off your shoulders, and, for the first time, genuinely focus on what it means to let the Lord into your life.
One of my favorite verses is Jeremiah 29:11 (Read on air).
Surrendering to God allows that joy to seep in, enabling us to have a deeper faith and hope in the providence of Almighty God. I find that when I surrender, I have greater peace and am less stressed about things because I am confident that the Lord hears me, even if his answer is no or not yet.
In 1 Corinthians 10:13, we read (Read on air).
As my husband reminds me when we are tested or going through trials, the Lord shows up in a mighty way and gives us the grace to handle it – this grace is His love.
James 4:7-10 (Read on air.)
Think about that: when we draw closer to God, He will draw near to us! Praise you, Jesus, come, Lord Jesus, come!
One of the surprising joys of allowing God is how He can use me in His work. At times when I was home (and I shared this with you before on this podcast), I felt like I wanted to be the one out there sharing the good news. Instead, I was home, caring for the kids, washing the millionth load of laundry, and vacuuming the floors. Invariably, something would happen: the pest control guy would show up, or something would break. The Lord allowed me to share my love for Him in those times.
I try to remember this when things break or I am interrupted. When we say, “Your will, Lord, not mine,” amazing things happen!
Are you ready to let go and let God into your life? Are you ready? Then say it with me, “Yes, Lord, Yes!”
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Journal – How-ToEpisode 25Journal – how to do it and keep it consistent is the emphasis of today’s podcast. Do you keep one in the traditional way or do you keep a journal as a tool to jump start your Christian walk?
Journaling is an amazing way to see the truth, answered prayers and your spiritual growth. There are many ways to journal and there is no definitive way, however, in this episode, we discuss ways to journal.
Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins
How to get started:You can pick up a book and start writing and that would be considered a journal, but I prefer this method which I will share with you. I found that the way I set up my journal that the most impact on the way I was consistent or not. When you journal, make it personal.
You can find some very inexpensive books at the store. I found very inexpensive lined-paper, bound books for a few dollars with a hardcover that I prefer.
I set mine up with a combination of praises and prayer requests. It was a wonderful way to begin and I felt that praising God and thanking him for all he had done for me!
It allowed me to ask Him in prayer without the fear that I had not been grateful for all the ways He has blessed me! I also wondered if God heard me, which was another reason I would write. In this way I felt I had a conversation going with the Lord.
How To:
- Purchase a small journal and keep it handy.
- Keep it with your Bible.
- Write on the cover or inside — make it your own.
- Divide your journal if you would like the way I did, in my explanation in this podcast, or…
- Just begin writing. It helps to put the date of your journal entry.
- Try to write in your journal every day.
I wanted to praise God before I prayed. I felt that I wasn’t being thankful.
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“Contemplative prayer [oracion mental] in my opinion is nothing else than a close sharing between friends; it means taking time frequently to be alone with him who we know loves us.” St. Teresa of Avila
Contemplative PrayerWhat is contemplative prayer? (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #2709-19)
- the prayer of the child of God
- the poor and humble surrender to the loving will of the Father in ever deeper union with his beloved Son
- the simplest expression of the mystery of prayer
- a gift, a grace; it can be accepted only in humility and poverty
- a covenant relationship established by God within our hearts
- an intense time of prayer
- a gaze of faith, fixed on Jesus; “I look at him and he looks at me,” said a farmer to St. John Vianney
- a focus on Jesus; a renunciation of self; His gaze purifies our heart
- hearing the Word of God; the Father speaking to us his incarnate Word
- silence where the Spirit of adoption enables us to share in the prayer of Jesus
- a communion of love bearing Life for the multitude
ScripturePsalm 42:7-9
Pray with Psalm 42, and listen to what God wants you to know. Spen 10 to 20 minutes in quiet and then, write down your thoughts and feelings from your prayer time.
If you are interested in learning more about inviting me to speak, you can find information on my speaking page!
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Testimony of Fr. Gary CoppingFr. Gary was born and raised in New Orleans, in a family of four boys. Fr. Gary knew from an early age he wanted to become a priest and began researching different orders in middle school. Fr Gary attended HC Schaumburg, St James Major Elementary, and Brother Martin HS. He studied Biophysics for 3 years at the University of New Orleans and was a member of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. After going on pilgrimage to Medjugorje in 1987, he left UNO to study at St Joseph Seminary College for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. He received his BA in Liberal Arts and went on to study at Notre Dame Seminary.
After two years at NDS, he left the seminary in 1993. In 1996, he married his wife, Judy, and they were married for 13 yrs. Judy died in 2009 and Gary reapplied to the seminary. He was re-accepted and studied for another three years, receiving his MDiv degree in 2013, and was ordained to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ on June 1, 2013. He has served as Parochial Vicar at St Anselm in Madisonville, St Margaret Mary in Slidell, and he is now the Pastor of St Joseph Church & Shrine in Gretna and St Anthony Church in Gretna since July 2017. He is active in two KC Councils, he is the Chaplain for a Domestic Church Group, and for both David Crockett Fire Department and Gretna Police Department.
This testimony was given to the Marerro, LA Chapter in March 2021.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Fr. Gary Copping appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Connection to OthersThere can be an imbalance in parenting when a child is taught he’s very special, but isn’t taught everyone else is, too. This quickly plays itself out in behavioral issues and entitlement. There is a danger in connection to ourselves and the Lord without this third leg of connection to others to balance the tripod. Being called to love and lay down our lives for each other draws us out of the self-centeredness of how special we are and into the trenches of sandpaper ministry, where we are all refined and our rough edges are smoothed. In relationships with others, our weaknesses and woundedness are revealed. It cannot be all giving and no taking, and vice versa. The nature of relationships is reciprocity and we soon find in giving we do receive and sometimes even more than what we are able to contribute. Loving others gives us the experience of being a gift. For such a blessing there is no substitute.
We are created for connection and actually tend toward addictive behavior when we do not have healthy connection with others. British journalist Johann Hari who researched drug addiction, is famously noted as saying, “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection.”1 This isn’t only true in terms of drug and alcohol addiction, but also food, sex, work, and the other many ways we may try to self-medicate. Because God made us to be one in him, lacking community can leave us lacking an experience of unity, and this can leave us feeling unfulfilled.
As we’ve considered many times so far, the foundation for all relating – relating to ourselves in addition to everyone else – must be a healthy relationship with the Lord. He is the only one who will ever know, value, and be able to protect us perfectly, in this life and in eternity. With this basis in place, we are able to minister and receive his love to each other without anxiety, even in the face of rejection or abandonment. These feelings are very real and human, yet they begin to diminish as we become more rooted in God’s constant and unconditional love.
The same pattern that has been revealed in our relationship to God and to ourselves is manifest in our relationships with each other, being known and valued, and the need for boundaries and openness. In the following sections, we’ll take a look at those aspects in terms of the give and take in relationship to peers.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 17 – The Mass Part IIIn this episode (Part two of two episodes) of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses The Mass.
The Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, when viewed as a whole, evokes a profound sense of reverence and awe. The liturgy of the word, in its preparation, guides us to enter into Jesus’ offering of himself to the Father. The priest at the altar, functioning in the person of Christ, the head, reminds us of the eternal high priest who operates in and through the human priest. During the offertory, as we make the gift of ourselves, we understand that our heavenly Father joyfully accepts the gift of broken men and women, further deepening our sense of reverence and awe.
As the priest holds up the Host, it is a moment for each parishioner to offer themselves, to personally connect with Jesus through the heavenly Father. Jesus, in his incarnation, opened the door for us to become partakers of the Divine nature and God’s adopted children. James explains the role faith plays in the mass and the deeper meaning behind the communion preparation and their mystical natures—mixing water with the wine, the priest washing his hands, the acknowledgment of parishioners offering themselves, the four eucharistic prayers approved by the Vatican, the words of consecration, and the miracle of transubstantiation. This personal connection and transformation is what makes the Mass a truly unique, divine, and engaging experience.
James also discusses the Divine offering of Christ—why it was necessary and eternal, how Jesus acts as an intercessor, and how the Mass is the offering and sacrifice of Christ and parishioners to the Father.
This is the 17th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Testimony of Angela RizzoAngela Rizzo’s journey began in the Bronx, NY where she lived until the age of 28. Born into an Italian – American family she lost her mother to cancer when she was 12 1/2. With a loving father, younger brother and lots of extended family Angela grew up feeling loved. But in her teen years she began to suffer from anxiety, worry, fear of death and hypochondria. She was newly married at the age of 22 but feeling sad and lost. Then she was introduced to a charismatic prayer group at her local parish. It was there that the Holy Spirit began the process of healing her heart and her mind.
The spirit of despair and hopelessness began to leave her as she entered into praise, worship and inner healing. She went through a divorce after 33 years of marriage, and had her faith tested many times along the way but God’s word from Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans not for your harm but for good…” always lifted her up. Angela founded the Immaculate Heart of Mary chapter of Magnificat in Rockville Centre Long Island 25 years ago and continues as Coordinator as well as serving as the Regional Rep for Region #7 to the northeast. She is a Personal Life Coach, Mother of two adult children and 5 beautiful grandchildren.
This testimony was given to the Morgantown, WV Chapter in March 2023.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot
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Planning Time For God Podcast #3Have you ever wondered how you can really love someone you’ve never met? It might seem tricky at first, but the answer is pretty simple—get to know them! Just like making a new friend, you spend time with them, talk to them, and learn about their likes and dislikes.
Now, think about this in terms of God. We often hear that God loves us, but how can we love Him back if we feel like we don’t know Him? The key is to spend time with God, just like you would with a new friend.
In today’s episode, we’re going to explore the wonderful love God has for us and how we can get to know Him better. When you spend time with someone, you learn more about who they are, and the same goes for God. By reading stories from the Bible, praying, or just talking to Him about your day, you start to build a connection.
Prayer is like having a direct chat with God.You can thank Him, ask for help, or even tell Him about things that worry you. Reading the Bible helps too because it’s like reading letters from a friend. The Bible tells us about God’s personality, His plans, and how much He cares for us.
Another great way to feel closer to God is by spending time in nature or listening to music that makes you think of Him. These moments can help you feel His presence and love more deeply.
So, remember, getting to know God is like getting to know a new friend. The more time you spend with Him, the closer you’ll feel. Let’s take this journey together and learn how deep and amazing God’s love for us is!
Sponsor: Media Angels, Inc. Novels – Truth Seekers Mystery Series available on Amazon. Three novels for tweens!
Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins
Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins
Show Notes: Planning Time For God
- Can you love someone you don’t know?
- What is the best way to get to know someone?
- How is your faith strengthened in prayers?
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Body, Mind, SpiritGod created man. He didn’t create spirit, soul, and body separately and then somehow weave them together. In the scripture quote above, St. Paul refers to all three of these aspects as what makes us an entire person. Because of the great expanse of knowledge regarding the different facets of the person, they have become artificially divvied up into distinct areas of study. The truth, however, is there is a continual interplay between them. Maximizing our pursuit of holiness also requires seeking wholeness, and vice versa. We are body, mind, and spirit. We can’t opt out of that fact. Spiritual balance and personal wellness require that we tend to all three of these aspects of our person.
The four main hormones that cause us to feel good are dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. Dopamine is primarily associated with learning new information and accomplishing goals; oxytocin is associated with love, trust, and friendship; serotonin has to do with a sense of respect and importance; and endorphins are released when we push past our physical limits, as in a runner’s high – oh, and eating chocolate! Each of these speaks to God’s design – in his wisdom, he literally created us for cooperation, collaboration, and connection.
Cortisol is a stress hormone. It is released in times of fear and perceived threat. The release of this hormone shuts down the production of oxytocin, which we said above is necessary to foster trust, friendship, and love. Personal and interpersonal disconnection causes us to exude cortisol. That’s a fact of how we are made. This is all the more reason to respect boundaries and relate with compassion. Otherwise, we’ll likely fuel stress in ourselves and those around us which will undermine our peace and relationships. Respect and compassion are crucial and perpetuate the cycle of connection from God, through self to others. This is critically important in every cell of our body and is an ongoing factor in every one of our relationships.
We are not at the mercy of our body’s use of hormones to keep us on guard. The practice of contemplative prayer has been shown to decrease cortisol18. With less cortisol in our bodies, we are more inclined to calmness, compassion, and collaboration, because oxytocin is not reduced. Through such peaceful and loving interaction, mutual respect fosters serotonin because it offers us a sense of importance. We are able to accomplish more, since we are all different members of the body of Christ with varying gifts and skills working together to build the kingdom of God. Thus, the release of dopamine is bolstered. We may even push past our normal physical limits since our interactions are fueling our positive mood and so we receive an endorphin rush. God’s design is beautiful. It starts with plugging in through receiving his love in prayer.
There are many facets to wellness for our body, mind, and spirit, and needs vary from person to person, yet some things are consistent. Physically we need good nutrition, hydration, exercise, and sleep. To have a healthy mind, we need to take on the mind of the Lord in all things. To be healthy and grow spiritually we need to be rooted in God’s love and truth. We do well to consider in what areas the Lord is calling us to greater health and discipline in each one of these areas; that way we are moving towards ever-greater holiness and wholeness. This is a much more peaceful and effective way to live rather than only seeking solutions when problems arise.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
The post Body, Mind, Spirit appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Episode 16 – The Mass Part IIn this episode (Part one of two episodes) of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses The Mass.
James tells us that the Mass is not about fellowship, although that is a remarkable aspect. The Mass is also not about beautiful music, although that is desirable. The Mass is about surrendering oneself to the Lordship of Jesus Christ—who created us out of love and for love. The Mass is a summary of Catholicism, incorporating the Old Testament’s longing for the savior, which brings us to the advent of the Son of God made Man. The Mass explores Jesus’ public ministry, Passion, death, and resurrection.
Parishioners are called to participate actively in the Mass, which is transformative. The Liturgy of the Word, the first part of the Mass, prepares us to enter into the marriage supper of the Lamb presently, now, and for eternity. James also explains how the Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life and a storehouse of inexhaustible riches and proceeds to explain how the Mass is a three-fold sacrament—of Jesus’ real presence, his unique, singular sacrifice, and how it unites us to Jesus in the reception of Holy Communion. The Mass also invites us into the presence of Jesus’ death on the cross and His triumphant reign in Heaven.
James continues to explain the various aspects of the Mass, its richness, and how it has a tremendous impact on the Eucharist’s ability to transform our lives by entering in a personal encounter with Jesus.
This is the 16th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The Mass appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Mary WilsonYou will be intrigued by Mary Wilson’s raw sense of humor as she shares her conversion story. Mary is from Central Louisiana. She has been married for over 50 years and is a mother of three grown children and 10 grandchildren. She considers herself very shy but comes across very relatable. She admits she made many mistakes in her life but trusts in a merciful God who can make all things work for good. In 1998, she was called to a deeper walk in Christ and got involved with the Charismatic Renewal. She became very active not only locally but also nationally. Presently, Mary is serving a three-year term as a Board Member of Pentecost Today USA (PTUSA). Mary has previously served on the PTUSA Council as a representative of Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women.
Mary is a woman of many talents. She exclaims,” God took my ‘jack-of-all-trades’ talents and put them to good use for His glory. If God can work with, in, and through me – He can work with, in, and through anybody!” She is the lead musician at her church and with various prayer groups. In her 29 years as a professional, she spent her career as a teacher and coach at the middle and high school levels and then as a high school administrator serving as principal.
Mary is the current secretary for the Central Service Team – the governing body for Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women. Her favorite saying is “Do whatever He tells you.” Her favorite scripture is John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you….so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you”.
This testimony was given to the Palm Desert, CA Chapter in September 2022.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Mary Wilson appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Openness with MyselfLike any relationship, your relationship to yourself is a process. When you look at a baby or small child, do you think they have a grasp on the fullness of who they are as an individual? No! Rather, it is through the process of being loved by their parents, discovering their strengths and weaknesses, growing in compassion for others, and beginning to understand who they are to their parents and to God that they begin to know and value themselves, see themselves as gift and learn to return that gift to the Lord. As this happens, their dawning awareness allows them to more consciously participate in God’s loving plan and to embrace their baptismal commission as priest, prophet, and king. We don’t hit a certain age and suddenly arrive at human, spiritual, or relational maturity. Scripture tells us we are to grow up into the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13). That is a lot of growing to do and it is a long process.
In his book, Addiction and Grace1, psychiatrist and theologian Gerald May says that we all suffer from repression and addiction, which prevent us from responding fully to grace. So, our need to be honest with ourselves is important as we look to move more deeply in connection to God, ourselves, and others. Openness, honesty, and authenticity with ourselves are essential to greater openness to God’s mercy, healing, and grace. Realizing how vulnerable that requires us to be also gives us a gentler eye toward our neighbor striving or struggling to do the same.
Since this connection to ourselves is a process, there is no need for discouragement, particularly when we stay rooted in the foundation of connection to God. We’re not to grow in self-actualization for the sake of becoming more of ourselves for ourselves alone. Rather, the spiritual journey is about aspiring to drink more deeply of the Living Water of the love of Christ so as to be more transformed into and more intimately united to him. Taking on his mind and his regard of us is part of union with and imitation of him.
Remember, openness with ourselves, like openness with God and others, is a byproduct of the factors of connection. We naturally open up in our relationships when we experience being truly known, valued, and safe. Therefore, if we find honesty with ourselves challenging, we can consider in which of these areas we may be able to relate to ourselves with greater grace so we have the courage needed for greater truth. As a friend of mine often says that any problem is fundamentally a problem between the person and God. Conversely, any healthy formation fundamentally comes from growth in relationship with him. Authenticity doesn’t come from being perfect, but in knowing that while imperfect we are perfectly loved.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
The post Openness with Myself appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Sacrament of Holy MatrimonyOur presenter, James Seghers, explains the priesthood and The Sacrament of Holy Orders in this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series.
In the Old Testament, God created the covenant of marriage beginning with Adam and Eve. This union is also a metaphor that depicts God in a marital relationship with the human race. In the New Testament, Jesus’ first public sign that prompted the disciples to believe in his divinity was at a wedding feast at Cana. After the miracle Jesus performed, turning water into wine, Jesus was viewed as the bridegroom Messiah. Also, in the New Testament, Jesus is depicted as the heavenly husband, with Heaven being the eternal wedding supper of the Lamb with, and thus, Jesus with His bride, the church.
God created humans out of love and for love, and as such, God calls humans to love. The church teaches loving is the fundamental and innate vocation of every human. Church helps us develop a loving relationship with God to transform our lives, and the marriage union between a man and a woman calls each spouse to love one another as God loves us.
The sin of Adam and Eve ruptured God’s plan for marriage, and the original sin inclined married couples to dominate and control one another, causing discord.
“To the woman, he said: I will intensify your toil in childbearing; in pain — you shall bring forth children. Yet your urge shall be for your husband, who shall rule over you. To the man, he said: Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, you shall not eat from it; cursed is the ground because of you! In toil, you shall eat its yield all the days of your life.” (Genesis 3:16-17).
In addition to discussing the original intent for marriage and what matrimony became due to the fall of Adam and Eve, James Seghers also relays the blessed opportunities for those who overcome marital challenges, God’s view on divorce, and much more.
This is the 15th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
When was the last time you wrote your own prayer? What about a prayer to God? Have you ever done this? If not, today is the day. In this episode, Felice Gerwitz explains how she expressly keeps a small journal in her purse for this purpose.
Prayer To God – Episode 300Have you ever tried to write a prayer? We have such a great example, The Lord’s Prayer that perhaps we think there is no way we can even come close. Well, praying is from the heart, and it can be something you pray about and think about or something that comes to mind quickly. Yet prayer is more than a list of petitions and needs it is also a time to thank and praise God.
So many times, we feel that our prayers are not answered, that God does not hear us, but what I’ve learned over the years is that God absolutely hears us and knows the needs of our heart before we even ask for it, but we still ask. If our prayers look like a list of what we’d like to see happen, even if it is well-meaning, we may need to tack on “your will, Lord, not mine.” That, my friends, is the hardest thing to do, to die to ourselves to die for what we want!
Here are some podcasts to help you with prayer:
- Never Underestimate Prayer
- Praying Moms
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Joyful and Battle Ready Before Jesus gave us the Lord’s prayer what preceded was chastisement or a warning how not to pray! In a nutshell and in our terms it is:
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Don’t pray loudly before others (because our reward would be on earth, from those who consider us pious) rather than by our heavenly Father.
- Don’t brag about praying.
- Don’t brag about how much you tithe or give to charity
- Don’t be proud of yourself for how much you give to charity.
- If you pray or you give do it from the heart and not because of your reward in heaven.
Let’s read the Lord’s Prayer as the ultimate example of how to pray. Matthew 6:5-14 (Read on Air)
Later in Luke, we read a slight variation. In this case, the Lord had been praying, and his disciples asked him how to pray.
Luke: 11:1-4 (read on air)
In the example of how to pray, we see that first:
- We praise God’s name.
- We ask for God’s will to be done here and in heaven.
- We ask God for our needs – our daily bread.
- We ask for forgiveness of our sins.
- We ask for the Lord’s protection against the evil one
- We ask that the Lord forgive us as we forgive others.
Our prayer does not need to follow a formula or be in this exact order, but it is helpful to see how the Lord taught us to pray. If you feel awkward about this, don’t. I keep a small notebook in my purse for the times I am inspired to pray, usually it is while at church. Most of the time my prayers are for those that I pray for regularly, like family members. Currently, the prayers include dear friends who are struggling and ill. Whoever is on your list, by writing it down, helps us to remember and recall who we should pray for and their needs.
In celebration of the 300th episode of A Few Minutes with God, Media Angels is making the eBook, A Few Minutes with God, free until Saturday, 4/27/24
Get your copy here.
Introduce your children to a deeper walk of faith, within the pages of a novel, A Few Minutes with God.
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Testimony of Judy ZeldenJudy will share her life-changing experience of receiving the ‘Baptism of the Holy Spirit.’ the tragic death of her father, the conversion of her husband, Michael, and the great privilege of seeing her youngest son enter the seminary.
Judy Zelden was born and raised in New Orleans, LA. She attended Catholic schools through college and graduated from Loyola University. She married Michael Zelden and they have three grown sons and nine grandchildren. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA., in 1983. After many years of Judy praying for her husbands conversion, Michael entered the Church in 1977 and serves as a Eucharistic Minister and loves to serve at Mass.
In 2015, Judy wrote her first bible study for Magnificat, ‘Women, Called by Name’, and in 2021, she wrote a second bible study ‘Women, Called and Sent’. Both bible studies have received the imprimatur. She is presently working on a bible study on the gospel of Luke.
Judy has been involved in Magnificat since its inception of its 42- year history and is one of the original CST members.
This testimony was given to the Nashville Chapter in February 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Judy Zelden appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
My Boundaries for MyselfBoundaries are protective limits to ensure safety, health, and right order. They aren’t just a right, but a responsibility, because they are an essential component of being good stewards of ourselves. We put gates up in homes with babies and toddlers to protect them from dangerous situations. They also protect caregivers from having to fear for a child’s every move. I have a fence up around my yard, which protects my dog from getting lost, stolen, or hit by a car. It also protects me from worrying about her, having to go look for her were she to run off, other people from getting bitten or chased, and drivers from accidentally hitting her. Moreover, it allows her the freedom to go outside without a leash so she can explore and relax in the beautiful outdoors. Boundaries establish rules of engagement and facilitate peace for all parties involved.
Maybe we were never taught that we get to have boundaries for ourselves and so experienced them as hostile walls or as rejection from others. Most people I’ve talked to didn’t have healthy boundaries modeled or set and were never taught how to set them. The reality is that boundaries are essential for healthy relationships. Remember, boundaries will look different for different people, because each of us has unique needs. Boundaries are important in protecting us. They aren’t just a right, but a responsibility.
Since we are body, mind, and spirit, we have a need for boundaries in all three of these areas. Are R-rated movies really good for us just because we are older? Just because we can do something doesn’t necessarily mean it’s conducive to our growth in wholeness and holiness. When we set limits for ourselves, we are keeping the bad out and the good in. Doing so keeps the living waters Jesus wells up within us from being wasted or polluted.
We spend exponentially more time talking to ourselves than we talk to others. That is not to say that we are constantly talking out loud, but our inner voice, thoughts, or expressions can be almost constant. What do we say to ourselves? What does our running commentary sound like? When thoughts that aren’t good for us come into our minds about ourselves, others, or situations, what do we do with them? Do we entertain them or do we “take every thought captive in obedience to Christ”? (2 Corinthians 10:5) This is a simple example of setting a healthy boundary in how we relate to ourselves. It is rooted in the boundaries God sets for us in scripture and overflows in our relationship to others.
Considering that God sees us as beloved and precious and values us beyond measure sets a firm foundation for healthy boundaries, which determine the way in which we think about ourselves. Many years ago, I had a job that required an enormous amount of travel. Being on the road so much, I often ate at restaurants. One day I realized when the hostesses would ask me how many were in my party, I regularly answered, “Just one.” This may sound like a little thing, but even though I was the one saying it, I felt a sting every time. It felt like the message I was unintentionally sending myself was that my existence was less because I was alone. Instead, I chose to say, “One, please,” and that’s what I say to this day. Each time I feel an honoring of my dignity as a person, rather than the sense of being diminished, as if I need another’s presence to give me significance.
I noticed something similar several years later. Pulling out of the driveway on my way to work, I realized that I had neglected to grab my computer bag or lunch. I caught myself saying out loud and with irritation at myself, “Ugh! I forgot that!” It made me feel frustrated and discouraged. I examined the situation and considered that actually, I had remembered the item before I drove away from the house. Good thing! I changed my message to myself to one of gratitude that I recalled the needed item before I left. This simple change in attitude helped me avoid so much useless frustration at myself. I felt joyful and energized rather than demoralized. Words are powerful. The ones we speak to ourselves regularly shape how we see ourselves, and if we aren’t consciously monitoring, our self-talk can often fly in the face of how God sees us. Aligning and realigning our self-concept with the Lord’s concept of us is crucial for operating in reality and peace.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 14 – The Sacrament of Holy OrdersOur presenter, James Seghers, explains the priesthood and The Sacrament of Holy Orders in this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series.
Sacraments of Holy Orders and Holy Matrimony are two sacraments of service ordered to the salvation of others—matrimony to one’s spouse and children with the self-donating love of Jesus. Priests are uniquely conformed to the cross of Christ in order to pour themselves out for the salvation of the heavenly bridegroom’s bride—the church—and they do this in the “person” of Jesus.
St. Paul touches on this transformation, “I bear the marks of Jesus on my body.” (Galatians 6:17). James discusses the unique gift of the Holy Spirit given to priests to function in the person of Jesus. He also discusses the role of the priest in the Old Testament, beginning with Moses.
James mentions that Sacred Scripture teaches us that Jesus is a priest after the order of Melchizedek (in Genesis 14:18–20, Melchizedek brings out bread and wine and then blesses Abram and El Elyon.) Jesus, by a single offering, has perfected for all time those who are sanctified, and the sacrifice of Jesus is made present in the Eucharistic sacrifice of the church—the Mass. James continues to explain the hierarchy of the Holy Orders and how the rites of ordination function.
This is the 14th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The Sacrament of Holy Orders appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Esther and Mordecai Writing the Second Letter of Purim, Painting by Aert de Gelder, 1685
Celebrating God’s GoodnessDo you celebrate God’s goodness? Reflecting on what God has done can inspire you to trust Him more and will strengthen your faith. For Esther and Jewish families, the Feast of Purim is an annual celebration that reminds them how God delivered them from their enemies and continues to do so. Join the podcast today to celebrate God’s goodness and review the many reversals in the Book of Esther.
Reversals ContinueApproximately two months and ten days after the first decree was issued, Mordecai wrote the second edict, empowering the Jewish people to defend themselves against their enemies. The turnarounds were astounding! Today, we share at least 15 reversals and cover these points:
No Plundering (Esther 9: 1-17) To plunder means to steal goods by force, often during a war and with an objective of making profit. * In Esther 9, the Jewish people remembered the violation of God’s commands in their heritage (1 Samuel 15) and acted in* holy retribution for self-defense but took no plunder for their profit.
The Feast of Purim Established Forever (Esther 9: 18 – 10: 3) Mordecai and Esther declared two days of celebration in an official decree to be remembered forever. * Purim means “lots” or dice which is what Haman used to pick the date for the Jewish annihilation. * The Book of Esther, also called the Megillah, is read twice during the Feast dated according to the Hebrew calendar. * Children “boo and hiss” and throw popcorn when they hear Haman’s name. * Today, Jewish families celebrate by bring gifts to the poor, giving gifts to each other, and eating fruit-filled triangular cookies called Hamantashens* [haa·muhn·taa·shn] or Haman’s Ears. They are delicious! You can pick up a recipe card on my website WRAPYourselfinJOY.com or in my book.
Banquets and Feasts in Esther* Esther begins with a banquet and ends with a feast, all with great joy. * Four pairs of feasts celebrate the turnarounds and triumphs of God.
The Dream, Memory, and Plot (Esther 10 – 16). Esther 10 -16 , the Deuterocanonical additions A – F, suggest Mordecai remembers a Dream.* It foretold God’s deliverance relating to the main events in Esther. In addition, these chapters add a few details to the occurrences.
The Hero of the Book of Esther is GOD* God used the beautiful Esther, caused the sleeplessness of the king, brought down Haman, exalted Mordecai, and gave the Jewish people victory over their enemies. * God showed tremendous power on behalf of his people. Almost like fireworks, the reversals came quickly and spectacularly, fifteen in all.
Remembering God’s Goodness* The Feast of Purim, still celebrated yearly in the Jewish tradition, helps families remember God has delivered them and will continue to deliver them. * Psalm 77 calls us to remember God’s goodness.
Personal Reflection1. Do you set aside time to remember, joyously celebrate and thank God for what He has done for you? How can you implement Esther’s example? 2. Do you call upon God for creative solutions or turnarounds when problems arise? Try it! 3. Are you encouraging others that God intervenes in history when his people seek him with prayer, repentance, and fasting? Please consider it!
New Podcast Series & Cup of JOY Women Join my newest podcast coming this summer: Ruth – Finding JOY in Tough Times and Trusting in God’s Goodness. If you would like to host a weekly one-hour “Cup of Joy Women ” study with your friends, email me: karen@WrapYourselfInJoy.com.* It’s free and I will send you all the materials you need for the weekly one-hour discussion and study over coffee. You can read more HERE on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group.
Links You can download Bookmarks (and recipe card) from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY*
The post Esther for This Time #10 – Celebrating God’s Goodness & the Feast of Purim appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Relationships are built over time and yet can be destroyed in seconds. It all depends on the foundation. In this episode, Felice Gerwitz shares how our relationship with the Lord can endure and carry us through our most difficult times to victory, in Jesus!
Restoring Relationships ~ Episode 299Relationships matter, whether with someone you love, someone you like, or someone you don’t like but need to get along with at work or school. Relationships are the very fabric of human culture, and our relationship with God is the main theme that runs through the Old and New Testaments. Our pastor likes to discuss relationships when he talks about scripture, and in fact, he has preached on the topic in sermon after sermon, pointing to the first sin (Adam and Eve and their disobedience in the garden (Genesis 3) and how sin is a break in their relationship. In regard to Adam and Eve their breach of relationship with the creator, God. The same with all of the human race afterward.
The cause of the brokenness led the people of God to rebel time after time after time. For the last two years, I’ve been studying the Bible, and I become weary, to say the least, when I have to listen to the whining of the Israelites in the desert or the distress of Moses when, once again, the people turn back to their false gods. Yet, it is a reminder to us all that restoring relationships between a nation of people, and God is symbolic of our relationship with the Almighty.
Yet, time and time again, after the rebellion, God still calls for us to return. In Isaiah 65:17-21 we read:
If you are familiar with the Bible, those verses are familiar to you; if not, spend some time with the Bible and look them up, study them, and apply them not only to the people for whom they were written at the time, yes– but it was written for us today. God is promising us a new Jerusalem, and He sent his son, Jesus, to us in order to live, teach, and sacrifice so that this could happen. We have a new life with Jesus; we have a new life for eternity.
We cling to this life, we all do. We know this world and even with all of its flaws and the trials we face daily, we don’t want to leave anytime soon. Yet, Jesus, in His entire work on earth, continued to call us to open His arms wide and to reclaim and restore the people. The New Jerusalem is Christ, He is the fulfillment of the Scriptures, and he is the fruit of our faith and hearlds the new heaven on earth. He proclaimed the Kingdom of God is at Hand! That saying stumped me because I was looking too deeply instead of seeing it for what it was, Jesus, the Kingdom fulfilled and at hand.
The proclamation of the Kingdom of God is the news that Jesus Christ, true man, and true God– Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy. Just as Jesus served the disciples by washing their feet and serving them bread and wine at the Last Supper, for us these signs point to a deeper truth. Jesus himself is the bread and wine, he asked of us to eat of the flesh and drink of the blood. For some the saying was too harsh.
Restoring Relationships True FoodRead all of John Chapter 6 but an excerpt is here, John 6:53-59
The teaching was too hard for many. Is it too hard for you and for me? The apostles were stumped, but not Peter. The same Peter who would later deny Jesus three times. John 6:66-68
How do we feel about these verses? Do we wish to go away like so many did? It always struck me that Jesus didn’t call them back, He didn’t say, “Wait! I was talking symbolically.” It was problematic for many at the time and for many today.
Do we truly believe that Jesus wants to restore us, to restore our relationship with Him? Perhaps your church celebrates the Last Supper symbolically by sharing bread and wine. My church celebrates the Last Supper in communion each time we attend Mass. We truly believe the words of Christ. Literally.
In communion, we are united with Jesus in a deeper way; we strive to live lives with God’s grace that are pleasing to Him. The King of kings and the Lord of lords. He is truly the Messiah. When we approach the altar, we bring Him our worries, our concerns, our problems, our failures, and our joys. We lay them there at the foot of the cross. Jesus died once and for all. We do this as he said, In remembrance of me.” With God, there is no time. He is with us always in the present. Mind-blowing, I know!
Take the idea of a relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to heart. Bring your concerns to Him, the Almighty, He is waiting to restore you and to bring you with Him into everlasting life at the end of your life. If you have time compose a prayer to the Lord, and pray it daily. Ask Him to bring you into a deeper relationship with Him and start today!
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Testimony of Kitty ClevelandKitty Cleveland raise in a devout Catholic family in New Orleans, LA. She was the middle child of six girls. Her father was a lawyer and wished for all his daughters to follow in his footsteps. Kitty had a dream of her own, to become a singer on Broadway and see her name in lights. But she chose the path her father had for her and became a lawyer. After three years in her profession, knowing she was unhappy, she left. At the same time, her father was convicted of a felony and sentenced to 10 years in prison. It was devastating for the family because he was innocent. The word the family received from the Lord was that his power was made perfect in weakness and that His grace was sufficient in this time of trial.
In 1998 during Adoration, Kitty clearly heard the Lord tell her to go into Music Ministry. Kitty is a singer and songwriter. She has appeared on television and radio, EWTN and the Johnette Benkovic’s, ‘Women of Grace’ show, she has performed in many concerts and has been a keynote speaker at home and abroad. Kitty is married a to a musician, and they adopted a daughter from China in 2005.
This testimony was given to the Marrero, LA. Chapter in May 2018.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Valuing MyselfHow common is it for us to find value in our performance, talents, skills, physical appearance, wealth, or status? The scripture at the beginning of this section puts our value in right perspective because it reveals God’s perspective. Jonah was sent by God to preach repentance to the Ninevites and, when they did repent and God had mercy, Jonah was angry about it. We take a look at the scripture above and find how God saw them. They were clueless! He said they couldn’t tell their left hands from their right hands! That’s not a statement of harsh criticism from the Lord, but rather an explanation to Jonah of why he was gentle and didn’t smite them like Jonah would have preferred. That clearly reveals the heart of our good shepherd who values his people simply because we are his own.
In Genesis, the serpent tempted Adam and Eve by making them think they weren’t good enough and needed to be like gods (Genesis 3:5). Even in our time we hear constant echoes of that moment. Commercials bombard us every day with messages about the myriad ways we are not good enough – how their products can rescue us from teeth that aren’t white enough, clothes that aren’t bright enough, and vehicles that aren’t fast enough, the list goes on. Focusing on the externals to find our value keeps us continually trying to earn what we already have.
Hanging our value on anything other than God’s love for us corrupts our vision and becomes how we measure ourselves and the way we believe others see us. When we try to find our worth in people or things other than God’s love, we end up hiding and are left thinking if people knew who we really were, they wouldn’t accept us. I’ve known very wealthy people who found their value in their wealth and became paranoid, thinking others only wanted to relate to them for their money. Because their lenses were faulty, it was impossible to convince them otherwise.
Our value is inherent. It can’t be earned because we already have it – we are God’s children. When we work to prove our value, we’re actually placing our worth in something transitory. These can easily become the things we hide behind. Each of us has inherent dignity in the Lord and resting in that fact alleviates so many issues. We no longer have the same self-criticism, arrogance, or condemnation of ourselves or others.
Actually, our confidence becomes unshakeable because it is in God, not in us. This doesn’t mean we should stop giving our best effort, but that we should do so from a place of confidence in our okayness, regardless of the outcome. Our performance is no longer an attempt to earn worth, but a gift of gratitude to the Lord for the gifts he’s given us. We stop trying to control how things turn out in order to justify our existence. When we have the being right, the doing flows peacefully and joyfully. The irony is that when we don’t spend our valuable time and mental and emotional energy worrying about the outcome, things generally turn out far better. When there is struggle, we are better able to adjust in a healthy way since our focus is on the Lord.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 13 – Anointing of the SickIn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, explains the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.
To receive the church’s Sacrament of Anointing the Sick through the ministry of a priest, there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death—a severe illness is sufficient. The hope is that the individual will be healed if it is God’s will. Without physical healing, the individual receives the Holy Spirit’s gift of peace and courage.
James continues to delve into how Jesus came to heal both the physical and spiritual. Jesus did not heal all people’s physical ailments, but the miraculous healings performed were to demonstrate the signs of the coming of the Kingdom.
Illnesses and suffering have always been among the most significant problems of human life. James discusses how enduring suffering matures a person by producing endurance, character, and hope and bringing one closer to God and how one can use their suffering as a redemptive suffering, uniting oneself with Jesus’ Passion.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4)
This is the 13th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Anointing of the Sick appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Esther Reigns as Queen
Creative Solutions for Esther & Her PeopleDo you need some creative solutions for your life? It may look like there is NO way out, but God working behind the scenes can always give a perfect solution. Today, we watch the reversals in Esther unfold through a second edict as many watching Esther and the nation’s deliverance express a desire for conversion.
In this podcast, we will cover the following points.
Mordecai Authorized to Write a Second Edict (Esther 8: 3-8)* Mordecai not only acquired Haman’s wealth and property but also his position. The king gave him his signet ring making him the second most powerful man in Persia. * However, there was still unfinished business! If Haman’s first edict issued in the king’s name was not overturned, all Jews would still be killed. Legally, a king’s edict was irrevocable. * For the second time, Esther appeared before the king, and using gentle leadership asked for Haman’s decree to be revoked. * The king had given Mordecai his signet ring allowing Mordecai to write whatever he pleased.
Reversals: Jewish People Empowered (Esther 8: 9-10, 13-17 & 16: 15-23[E])Two months and ten days after Haman issued the first edict, Mordecai summons the king’s secretaries and wrote a second edict that counteracted Haman’s edict, empowering the Jews to defend themselves. At least six more reversals transpired:
- Haman‘s edict was written and dispatched to kill the Jews (3: 13-15) The Reversal (8: 10-14): Mordecai’s edict was sealed and dispatched to give the Jews authority to attack those who would attack them.
- Haman‘s edict becomes the law (3: 14) The Reversal (8: 10-14): Mordecai’s writ becomes a decree that all must obey.
- Mordecai mourns in sackcloth, and ashes (4: 1). The Reversal (8: 15): Mordecai wears royal robes of blue and white, a crown, and a mantle.
- Mordecai wails in disgrace at the king’s gate (4: 2). The Reversal (8: 15): Mordecai was honored as the whole city shouted and rejoiced.
- The Jews mourn in sackcloth and ashes with fasting (4: 3). The Reversal (8: 16): They celebrate a time of gladness, joy, and honor with a royal festival and holiday.
- The Jews were weak and dispersed in the culture (3: 8). The Reversal (8: 17): The turnarounds brought about such fear of the Jews that many Persians converted or said they were Jews.
Personal ReflectionDo you need creative solutions and more reversals? Don’t give up. Ask our Lord to show you creative solutions for your impossible situations. Invite the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and your ears to what you don’t yet see. Remember God loves reversals and His solutions are always the best solutions and they will bring JOY!! Principles from Esther to help guide you in difficult times might include:
- When God defeats your enemies, they are vanquished.
- Assemble with others for increased strength to defeat foes.
- God can give gladness, joy, and honor to replace sadness, darkness, and despair.
- When people observe reversals and empowerment on your behalf, it could lead to turnarounds, change of heart or conversions.
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the weekly one-hour discussion and study over coffee. * Download Bookmarks from this podcast series: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY
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We are Resurrection People! Consumed by joy! Shouldn’t that be the theme of our lives, especially for those of us who are committed Christians? If you feel your life currently falls short, listen in as Felice Gerwitz explores ways to bring that joy back into your life.
Consumed By Joy ~ Resurrection People Episode 298As I share this podcast, we’ve completed our Lenten journey of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. This does not mean we should ever stop; it just means that during Lent, we seem to make a renewed effort to turn our hearts to God. It seems that when Easter Sunday finally comes, we are past ready to rejoice and sing Halleluiah! This is what we’ve been waiting for, and in a renewed way we see it in the lives of our family and extended family members when we gather to celebrate.
Easter is so much more than chocolate bunnies and overly commercialized merchandise. We are so blessed as Christians to see this and to bring this reality to our family celebrations. The focus is on the Resurrection, and as I prayed about this, I kept thinking the words, “Resurrection people—we are Resurrection people.” But, what does that mean? So, I prayed and I researched and I finally concluded it means different things to each one of us, depending on our journey toward the Lord.
Consumed By Grief – Now Consumed By Joy:I read a quote from John Paul II that said, “We are a Resurrection people and Alleluia is our song!” In other words, we rejoice in what the Lord has done for us, and we celebrate this in our hearts and minds. If we allow it to, this is transformative. We are no longer in the proverbial “ashes and sackcloth”. We are in celebratory mode.
We are consumed by grief as we read the scripture verses about the crucifixion and the Marys at the foot of the cross. John 19: 25-26 (read on air)
We know from scripture study that the disciple is John. They watched in horror, and we are often in horror as we read those verses. Most of the time, if you are like me, you want to skip the verse and go straight to the resurrection, the empty tomb, but I often remind myself that without the crucifixion, there is no resurrection. In this, we can be overcome and depressed and even despair, but we know the end of the story. We know that our despair as Jesus was taken to the tomb was short-lived. When we are discouraged, when we have doubts, when we are depressed or in desperate situations, we rely on the Lord because, by the very fact that we are Baptized Christians, we no longer belong in despair but should be reminded to rejoice!
We should bring the Lord all of the situations in our lives, our pain and suffering, our impatience and irritation with others, and ourselves… when we look at those things in light of the death and resurrection, we can see that our worries and our cares are fleeting in the grand scheme of things. Sure, we can acknowledge our pain and our suffering, but we also must put that in perspective. The evil one wants us to wallow in pain, in guilt, in self-recrimination, but Jesus, to a sinner, says, come.
We were blessed to attend the Easter Vigil, that is the service, the Mass that begins on the evening before Easter. It begins in some churches after sundown at 8 or 8:30. This service is beautiful in that the readings are from the Old Testament, beginning in Genesis 1:1-2:2, verses from the Psalms are read in between, and then verses from the Old Testament. Most notably as follows:
- Genesis 22:1-18
- Exodus 14:15-15:1
- Isaiah 54:5-14
- Isaiah 55:1-11
- Baruch 3:9-15, 32-4.4
- Ezekiel 36:16-17, 18-28
New Testament:
- Romans 6:3-11
- Mark 16:1-7
Some services select four from the Old Testament and Mark from the New Testament. This is so that salvation history is read and the fulfillment of the words is joyously proclaimed. Mark 16:5-7
Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome went looking for the Messiah, but instead, they became disciples—they were the bearers of good news to tell Peter and the others! What an extraordinary grace! They were previously consumed by sorrow, and now they were consumed by joy! God, the creator of the universe, showed us that nothing is too small or too insignificant for Him. He showed us by his extreme sacrifice that our sins would be redeemed and that our sorrow was no longer necessary.
We are resurrection people. Please take some time to think about this and what it means to you. Just like you, I have problems, difficulties, and sorrows. Sometimes, the burden seems too big to carry, and I despair. Yet I know that the Holy Spirit dwells within me by virtue of my Baptism, by virtue of my yes to the Lord, and sometimes, it is a yes that happens multiple times a day. When we consider the resurrection, our hearts should be consumed by joy; it should convert us, and if not, think and pray about this if you can.
We have so many stumbling blocks we put up on our own and in the Name of Jesus, we pray they are removed! Our desire and longing should be for the Lord, for relationship with Him and our prayer is: “Dear Lord, please fan the flames of your love for us, within us, let it rage like a bonfire and ignite our hearts with love for You as you have love for us.” Amen!
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Testimony of Julia MonninJulia Monnin grew up in a good Catholic family in Ohio. She was one of 5 children. Like most kids growing up she was swooped in the ways of the culture and made some bad choices in her high school and college years. She was ashamed of the sinful nature she had chosen for herself and became aware there was a need to change. Her mother knew something was bothering her and suggested she go to confession. She took her mother’s advice and that was a turning point in her life. She began to pray more and gain a deeper relationship with Christ.
After Julia’s major conversion, she left her job and went into full time ministry. She is an author, speaker, and spiritual companion. She published her first book in in 2017, ‘The World is Noisy, God Whispers,’ Vol.1. She writes a monthly blog and host two monthly podcasts (“The World Is Noisy – God Whispers”® and “The Schoenstatt Way of Life”), co-hosts a weekly podcast with Fr. Sean Wilson (“Darting Through the Faith”), and hosts a semi-monthly radio show on Radio Maria called “Living the Lectionary.”
Julia is the founder and president of the Catholic nonprofit apostolate Journeys Revealed Ministries whose mission is to “Spread the Love of Jesus by Sharing the Stories of Our Souls, One Intimate Moment at a Time.”
This testimony was given to the Pittsburgh Chapter in August 2021.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Episode 12 – The Sacrament of Reconciliation ConfessionOur presenter, James Seghers, explains the origins of the Sacrament of Reconciliation Confession in this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series.
In John 20:21-23, Jesus, having risen from the dead, bestows the miraculous power to forgive sins. “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so, I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
James discusses how the grace of the spirit has been bestowed on priests and how to understand the marvel of this Sacrament, one must comprehend the terrible reality of sin.
Using scripture to demonstrate, James describes how Jesus warns us that sin is inherent in human appetites and how specific human desires go against the will and law of the Father. Jesus also implores humanity to draw closer to the Father to receive grace and mercy in order to strengthen us and fight the pull of earthly appetites.
Additionally, James explores the types of sin, the degrees of their graveness, and how confession was even instituted in the Old Testament as a means of repentance, healing, and forgiveness.
This is the 12th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Painting: Esther reveals Haman’s plot to the King by Jan Lievens, 1623
God Loves ReversalsDo you need reversals in your life? Let Esther encourage you. God loves reversals, and He can make them happen for you.
Three ReversalsToday in our podcast, we encounter three reversals in Chapter Seven of the Book of Esther. This is God’s providence, bringing dramatic changes in circumstances in response to the prayers of His people. It can happen again, and it can happen in your life! Join us today as we cover these points:
God’s Intervention* When King Ahasuerus cannot sleep, he reads his chronicles and discovers Mordecai’s service needs a reward. * The King asks Haman what he can do for the man he delights to honor. * Haman replies the man should wear the King’s clothes, ride the King’s horse, and be proclaimed for service throughout the streets.
A Peripety* Haman hates Mordecai and is humiliated when the King tells him to proceed with these actions for Mordecai. * It is a peripety – a significant reversal of circumstances or turnaround of intentions written in heaven. * When Haman told his friends and wife Zeresh about the Mordecai incident, they warned him: “If Mordecai, before whom you have begun to fall, is of the Jewish people, you will not prevail against him but will surely fall before him.”
God Reverses Evil (Esther 7: 1-8)* Esther dishes up sweet words to the King. * She knew when it was NOT time to speak and when it was time to say her request to the King. * She used the exact words from the edict so that the King knew he was hearing the truth.
Persian Culture* In Persian culture, + Diners eat at a table while reclining on a couch. + Men could not come within seven steps of a woman in the King’s charge or harem. * Haman approached Esther’s couch to beg for mercy – he had overstepped his bounds by 7 feet. * To the King, he was assaulting Esther. So, he orders a face cloth draped on Haman. * In the Persian culture, a facecloth covers an enemy of the King so the King would not have to look upon the one he condemned.
The Lord Loves Reversals (Esther 7: 9 – 8: 2)* Harbona, one of the King’s chief consultants, appears to know of Haman’s hatred for the Jews and of the gallows he built in his backyard to execute Mordecai. He suggests Haman hang on these gallows. * Oh, how the Lord loves reversals! His divine providence reversed three evil events for today. + The gallows built in Haman’s backyard for Mordecai are used to hang Haman. + The King removes the signet ring, indicating “a second in charge” position, from Haman and gives it to Mordecai. + Haman’s decree is reversed. Instead of plundering the property of the Jews, the King gives Haman’s property to Queen Esther. * What the study of literature calls peripety—an event that suddenly brings a reversal of fortune and dramatic change in circumstances, is what Christians call a miracle.
Personal Reflection* Romans 15: 4 reminds us: “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.” Let Esther give you hope. God can give you reversals too: * Which of the following principles do you find most helpful for you? 1. 1. God can reverse the evils around us. 2. Gentle leadership with prayer and God’s discernment accomplishes much. 3. Teachers of drama or literature call a reversal “peripety,” but Christians call it a miracle. * What miracle or turnaround do you need today? Based on what you observed from Esther and Mordecai, how will you pray for one? 1. 1. Read Psalm 37: 1-5 and notice all the phrases “do not fret” and “trust in the Lord” instead. Which will you do? The Lord will act as you delight in Him and commit your way to Him. 2. Ask Jesus to bring laughter and joy to your life as you pray for the reversal.
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the weekly one-hour discussion and study over coffee. * Download Bookmarks from this podcast series: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY
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Invitation To Hope – Introduction Episode OneDo you need an invitation to hope? Well, I did and I’m convinced that everyone has a story to tell. Every single one of us struggles yet we don’t want anyone to know about it. We want to paint a rosy picture and let everyone know we are living the dream. My life was just that way; I was struggling on the inside yet smiling on the outside. There is hope and joy in life and I am here to share this message with you.
I will discuss real concerns that you have as a woman, as a mom or someone who is learning and growing in their faith. I want you to know you are not alone. This podcast is meant to support, encourage and to give you hope! Some of you are stay-at-home moms some of you at our work at home moms and some of you work outside of the home, yet we all have common struggles. Anyone who tells you that life is great all the time is not being truthful. Life has struggles, this is not heaven, and I often have to remind myself of this very fact. Happily ever after does happen in real life but it happens not necessarily in the way you think.
You might think this is a strange name for a podcast – One More Child – but it has impact and meaning. Once I was open to God’s will in my life, in everything–even being open to having one more child, I felt as if my eyes were opened to the truth. I could no longer compartmentalize my beliefs and my life. I also found that my daily life struggles were manageable because I was not doing it alone.
In this series of podcasts, we will discuss so many topics that affect our happiness. And you will see a reoccurring theme one of trust, of truth and of focus. Can you use more of that in your life? I know I can!
As I record this episode I am just beginning to share my book with the public, it is a story about faith and redemption, and how my last three children are a miracle story. I thought God might bless me with a third child, but he decided I needed a fourth and a fifth as well! My God is abundantly gracious.
In this series for the One More Child Podcast, I’m going to discuss different topics that relate to openness to children, family, faith, and relationships – I also want to encourage you to find joy and hope no matter what your life’s situation may be.
So who am I? My name is Felice Gerwitz, and I have been online in some capacity since 1999 representing the company I created and founded Media Angels. I’ve been writing and publishing for over 24 years.
When I started, there were no podcasts, no online forums or even social media as we know it today. But I am so happy we have these things so I can connect with all of you!
Now that my five children are grown up, with my two youngest currently in college, I find myself at a crossroads. I wrote a book that I felt compelled to write through the urging of the Lord, in writing this book I found that I had much more to say than the 100 pages of the book, so since I am no stranger to podcasts, I decided, “Why not?”
I know this podcast would have helped me as someone who was struggling, as someone who had no one to talk to about private issues — well let me amend that, I had plenty of people I could talk to but no one I wanted to tell my story to nor was I open to any solutions at that time. I held a secret in my heart that was eating away at the very fiber of who I was as a woman as a mom and as a wife. Sometimes there are things you just can’t share with anyone. And this feeling was something I couldn’t even share with my husband even though if you had asked me I would say we were very close.
I don’t want this podcast to be a one-way conversation. I want you to join me with questions and perhaps as a guest on this podcast if you are open to this idea. If not, I totally get it! No one believes I am shy—no one. But truthfully I’m a private person that the Lord has stretched and taken me out of my comfort zone. Has that ever happened to you? We grow when we are stretched and believe me I have grown and continue to grow in my relationship with the Lord.
At one time I believed that if I shared my secret I would admit my inadequacies and I was not in a place spiritually to do this. My walk with the Lord was one-sided—I followed Him on my terms. You may wonder about my secret what was it that had me in turmoil? It was regret. Regret over a decision that thousands of people make each day and that is to limit the size of their family with a surgical procedure. For us, it was a vasectomy.
Once my faith grew and I began to understand what it truly meant to be a Christian in the full sense of the word, I began to regret the decision. My husband was also feeling the same way but he didn’t tell me either until years later.
If this story didn’t have a happy conclusion I wouldn’t be sharing this right now! I know the wonderful outcome could only happen by the grace of God – His mercy and His love for me. My last three children wouldn’t be here unless we had a change of heart, and I can’t tell you what a blessing they have been. Has it been easy? No – but can you tell me one thing in your life that has been worthwhile that is super easy?
What I want to share in future podcasts is that God does answer prayers and His answers are so much more glorious than anything you or I can imagine – and believe me, I have a very vivid imagination! God poured out His grace on me, my husband and my family and I can’t wait to share the good news with you!
One thing you can be sure of … there will be no pretense in these episodes. I have learned so much and I’m happy to share helpful solutions and encourage you along your journey in life if I truly have lived it — and my heart’s desire is to share the wonderful and amazing hope that comes only my relationship with the one true God! And, you know what? IT is available to all of you.
Welcome my friend. If you are a long-time friend and listener of my other podcasts I thank you in advance for coming over to yet another podcast I host and your loving support. You know who you are. If you are a new listener, I hope to meet you and for you to become a friend. My hope is that you will join me on social media so we can have a chance to connect, meet and get to know each other. The information is on the podcast page at One More Child Podcast.com – or if you are not on social media please share your comments and questions with me at Felice@MediaAngels.com.
I’m excited about this new journey the Lord has me on …and I pray it is a hundred-fold blessing to all of you. Until next we meet…
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God’s Grace is SufficientEpisode 21God’s grace, is it sufficient for you? Or do you rely on the world for the help you need? In 2 Corinthians 12:9 we read the passage that many sermons are built around, but how do we apply this to our life? In this episode, I’ll explain how I strive to have more of Him and less of me in my life.
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Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins
How do we live a grace-filled life when most of the time we can hardly get out of bed without being overwhelmed with all that needs to be done each day? Now that my children are older I’ve taken on some extra activities that put me in the path of people from all walks of life. Some are Christians, others are not, but it is hard to tell the difference. Years ago a good friend of mine used to be asked all the time, “What is different about you?” She carried the joy of Jesus Christ with her wherever she went. She was my writing partner and while we each attended different churches, she was an evangelical Christian and mostly attended non-denominational churches, I am a Catholic. We agreed on the solid foundation that without Jesus there can be no joy in your life.
Jill showed the love of Jesus in her life. She showed others that even if she was under a life burden she would still praise God. Jill loved her children unconditionally as she loved her friends and even her acquaintances. She didn’t live a life without hardship. She went through a painful divorce, bankruptcy and she died suddenly in 2007. Before she died she told me she would soon be homeless if things didn’t change in her life. Yet, she told me she was not worried – she had God. And, instead of being homeless, God took her home. I have never publically told that story before, and while I still miss her tremendously I am happy for her because I know that as she lived she was an example of God’s grace being enough.
It is the inspiration from friends that we surround ourselves with that we too can learn about that joy and that grace should be sufficient for us. That grace that surpasses anything that we can earn or attain in this world. Remember friends, it is in Him that we can have true life. As I record this episode it is the end of November and I approach the Christmas season with a sense of expectancy in the true miracle of the birth of Christ, but also in the miracle that we can be, by example for each other.
2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
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Testimony of Mary Lou McCallMary Lou was a ‘military brat.’ Her family moved every three to four years. Her father was in the air force. Her mother was German, and her family spent much of her growing up years visiting her mother’s relatives in Germany. Mary Lou was raised Catholic, and her mother showed by example the reverence for the Church by their many visits to the Cathedrals all over Europe. Mary Lou was a middle child, shy and introverted. She married her college sweetheart, and they had five sons together. She became a television journalist and documentary producer bringing political and spiritual news to the forefront.
As a television reporter, Mary Lou was given an assignment to go to Medjugorje. The experience changed the trajectory of her life. She and her family have experienced intense spiritual warfare. She will explain as she shares a number of her sons’ various addictions.
She became a Drug Addiction Prevention Specialist and spokesperson. In 2020, Mary Lou was commissioned by the Archbishop as an Ecclesial Lay Minister as part of a graduate program at Notre Dame Seminary and she also has a master’s degree in Pastoral Leadership.
This testimony was given to the Marrero, LA, Chapter in June, 2022.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Episode 11 – The Eucharist Part IIOn the second part of a two-part episode on the Eucharist in the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, delves into the sixth chapter of St. John’s Gospel.
The prologue of St. John’s chapter six recalls two miracles that prepare Jesus’ audience for the following Bread of Life discourse. The first miracle identifies Jesus as the Messianic profit like Moses, which was predicted in Deuteronomy Chapter 18. The second miracle occurred when Jesus walked on the sea to meet up with his disciples. This is an act heralded Jesus as God in his Divinity.
In Chapter 6, Jesus multiplied five barley loaves and two fish, feeding the hungry gathering crow who began to follow up because of the signs Jesus was performing. The next day, the crowd, seeing Jesus and his disciples had left the area, the crowd began to search for Jesus, and when they found him, Jesus responded, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled. Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life— which the Son of Man will give you. For on him the Father, God, has set his seal.” (John 6:26)
In his conversation with the crowd, Jesus informs the crowd not to think of the material but the spiritual. The crowd, understanding, always asks what they must do to receive this bread. Jesus responds, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst. (John 6:35). In this statement, Jesus states that he is the life-giving bread that challenges the crowd to change their focus and understanding.
Jesus explains the holy wonder of his body and blood becoming the food for eternal salvation and instructs the crowd to proceed in faith, challenging them with their limited understanding. However, the crowd, still lacking in spiritual awareness, remains resistant and unwilling to accept Jesus’ teaching.
This episode underscores Jesus’ message as the Bread of Life “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. (John 6:54).
This is the 11th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Mordecai Led Through the City by Haman by Azor Masters, Painting, 1420 AD, The Hague
God-designed ComedyGod-designed comedy can reverse calamity! Don’t you wish every tragedy turned into a good laugh instead? Sometimes, we think God doesn’t have a sense of humor. Today in our podcast on Esther, we cannot help but see the comedy from the hand of God that reverses a tragedy.
In Between Dinner PartiesIn our last study, Esther asked the king and Haman to a festive banquet dinner she prepared. At the end of the dinner, Esther invited the king and Haman to a second dinner the next day. She delayed the real request because her discernment through prayer and fasting told her the timing was not right. Between the two dinner parties, Haman bursts with pride to family and friends at being asked to dine twice with the king and queen of Persia. However, his joy disappears at the sight of Mordecai, who refuses to stand up in his presence. Today, we join the king, whose sleeplessness, ordained by God, leads to a reversal of circumstances. We cover these points:
The Sleeplessness of the King Results in a Peripety (Esther 6: 1-12)* The King can’t sleep, so he entertains himself by reading his annals – large volumes that record the history and accomplishments of a king’s reign. * The King’s sleeplessness begins with peripety (pronounced “pe-rip-e-tē”). The term is used in dramatic arts to define a sudden reversal of fortune with a change in direction. * In a tragedy, the plot turns a lead character’s fortune into ruin. * In a comedy, the reversal changes tragedy into comedy. * In Esther Chapter Six, we see both kinds of peripety.
God’s Reversals (Esther 6: 12)* The king turns in his annals to an event that occurred five years earlier, only to discover that Mordecai’s service had NEVER been rewarded. * Just then, Haman arrives at the inner court after constructing a 75-foot-high gallows for hanging Mordecai. * Haman lusts for power and hopes to wear the King’s robe. * The ancients attached great significance to wearing a royal robe. It was considered a mark of great favor and honor. * Haman tells the king what could be done to the man whom the king wants to honor.
Haman Humbled (Esther 6: 13-14)* Haman hated Mordecai and was greatly humbled when he proclaimed his greatness while wearing the king’s robes and crown and riding the king’s horse. * God’s hand seems to create a peripety: Haman, once honored as second in power to the king, is humiliated, and Mordecai, in sackcloth and ashes, is exalted in the king’s robe and attire. * Haman’s friends and wife Zeresh realize that the Jews worshipped a God, who seemed to be intervening. * Haman did not know the warnings of Proverbs 16:18 and Matthew 23: 12. * Proverbs 16: 18. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. NRSV-CE or * Matthew 23: 12. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. NRSV-CE
The Greatest Peripety of All (Ephesians 2: 4-6)* The greatest reversal of all God planned since creation was our redemption from sin and eternal death through Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. * It was the greatest REAL peripety of all.
Personal Reflection In Esther Chapter 6, we see God’s hand at work reversing many situations. Which of the following principles do you find most helpful? 1. Wait for God’s timing and guidance: He can intervene in your life with a miracle that changes everything. 2. God intervenes in history when His people call out to Him with prayer, repentance, and fasting. 3. Jesus Christ is your reversal of fortune—He died out of love for you to forgive your sins and offer you eternal life. Now is the time to accept His forgiveness as His plan for your life. 4. I will try to remember these verses to remind me of God’s ability to intervene in the worst of circumstances: * Isaiah 59:1.* See, the Lord’s hand is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. * Jeremiah 32: 27. See, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too hard for me? NRSV-CE
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the weekly one-hour discussion and study over coffee. * Download Bookmarks from this podcast series: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY
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Agony and VictoryIs there such a thing as agony and victory? Everyone has agonized over something in their lives, yet there is hope. Most of us on this side of heaven have struggled and had trials and tribulations. In this podcast, we discuss agony with a twist: the victory that comes on the other side.
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Jesus wants us to live a life free from agony and strife. He wants us to live a victorious life, but how can we do so when there are so many hardships in our lives? How can we hold on to the hope that is the bedrock of our faith without caving in and losing hope? We can do this by looking at the scriptures but also taking them into our hearts and applying them to our lives.
Jeremiah is one of my favorite prophets in the Bible. I love his steadfast, single-minded focus on the mission at hand. Like most disciples, he left his family and home to pursue the mission God called him to, and in so doing, tragedy could have been averted. There was a movie made for television on the prophet Jeremiah. As we watched it, I kept stopping the DVD player to say to the children who were watching it with me at the time, “Look! Look! Do you hear that? It is the same thing that is happening today.” Finally, the children were so frustrated they asked if we could finish the movie before we talked about it.
The movie depicted Jeremiah’s upward battle and struggle as he agonized over sharing God’s message with an unwilling people. He was willing to articulate his agony in Jeremiah 20:10:13 (Read on air).
God is a God of mercy and forgiveness, but also righteousness. Jeremiah says, “But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior, so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail.” When God sends someone to do His mission, He will equip them and provide for them. Jeremiah’s message was not very different from Jonah’s message to Ninevah: Repent. Repent. Repent. Yet, while Jonah was not a very good prophet and was a reluctant one, Jeremiah was obedient, and it cost him so much.
Jeremiah is said to be a prefigurment or a type of Christ in that he was crushed, maligned, rejected, and in anguish, the same as Jesus during his passion, the way of the cross toward the crucifixion.
Jesus quotes the words of Jeremiah: Jeremiah 5:12 (Read on air.) in Mark 8:18 – “Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember?”
He also quoted Jeremiah 7:11. (Read on air) with Mark 11:17 (Read on air.) and also Luke 19:46
Why did Jesus quote Jeremiah? Because he, too, was rejected, despised, maligned, crushed, and in anguish. As Jesus reflected on the words of Jeremiah, he must have heard an echo of what was to come. The amazing thing, as our pastor pointed out during a sermon, is the same people, the Pharisees, scribes, and scholars who were amazed at the 12-year-old Jesus in the temple, amazed at his wisdom and comments and answers to the questions, were now ready to get rid of Him. These were the same people who wanted to crucify him.
The lesson is that out of His suffering, redemptive suffering for all of us comes the VICTORY of the Resurrection. Jesus was born, lived a simple life, and died on the cross to set us free. We can now rejoice because, as we read in the scriptures, the victory has been won!
1 Corinthians 15:54 (Read on air)
The death of Christ was not the end, as we head into the last week before Easter we recall His passion, the events leading up to His crucifixion, but it is what is on the other side that leads us to rejoice!
Jesus wants us to be whole; he wants us to be without the burdens we carry. Yet, he wants us to strive for truth and righteousness. To be like Him, we can look at the example of his mother, Mary. She said to do what he tells you at the wedding feast in Cana. She points to her son, and we, too, take that clue and abandon ourselves to Him.
Padre Pio of Pietrelcina said, “The cross will not crush you; if its weight makes you stagger, its power will also sustain you.” Isn’t that beautiful? It is such a powerful truth. The crosses in our lives often make us stronger, and we grow through suffering.
God abandoned himself for us; shouldn’t we abandon ourselves to Him?
“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Luke 9:20:23—After Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “God’s Messiah.” Jesus gave one of his most famous discourses. He predicted His death and gave us a mission in life.
After Peter said, he was the Messiah. Luke 9:21-23 Read On Air.
Friends, to be disciples and follow, we must pick up our crosses daily. When we agonize and despair when we are rejected, lonely, and forgotten, remember the one who will never abandon or forget you, and cry out to Him. When agony comes, remember victory is at the other end. Maybe not how we would like it, but always within the perfect will of God. As we approach Easter or whatever time of year you are listening to this podcast, focus on the task at hand, yes—but rejoice in the Lord and His perfect will in our lives.
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Testimony of Fr. Tony MugaveroFr. Tony Mugavero is pastor of Holy Apostles parish in Rochester, NY. He has been devoted to the vocation of the priesthood for 44 years. He loves his vocation and he has many God stories. He shares a fond memory of his sister Rosalie and the 25th wedding anniversary he and sister planned for their Italian parents. Fr. Tony encourages his audience to also share their God stories that profoundly speaks to the question the Lord asks, ‘Who do you say that I am.’
Fr. Tony has overcome all trials especially when he was arrested and convicted of harassment for talking to women wanting to enter an abortion clinic to end their child’s life. He served 15 days in jail. He is a strong and brave man of conviction.
Fr. Tony is a strong advocate for life in all stages and has deep respect and love for mankind, willing to help in all circumstances. He believes that ‘All things work for good for those who love him, those he has called according to his purpose.’ Romans 8:28
This testimony was given to the Rochester, NY, Chapter in October 2022.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Bare Bones Show Notes!Here’s the thing: I love to speak, and I love to write, but for some reason, show notes. UGH! I might want to take some of the advice I give in this episode about the way I am and see if it changes. We shall see.
Scripture Quoted
Revelation 21: 5 “The one who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 : “So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.”
The main pointWhen we say, “That’s just the way I am,” we put ourselves in a box and deny the possibility of change, which we can do with God’s help.
Pray with this question: God, what do you want to make new?
Would you like to pray together or learn ways of praying to help you change with God’s help? Please contact me.
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Connection to SelfHealthy confidence and self-worth are fruits of personal integration. The same factors that are essential for connection to God are also essential for connection to self – being known, valued, and open, and having healthy boundaries. Ideally, a child experiences being known, valued, accepted, and protected by good and loving parents. When this happens, it’s a natural bridge to having self-knowledge and self-acceptance.
So, why is it important to talk about this? Did we just move from talking about spirituality in the previous section to selfishness and being self-consumed? Not at all! Take a look again at the scripture from Mark 12 at the beginning of this section. The teacher who approached Jesus asked him which law is the most important. Jesus answered his question by also telling him the second most important law: To love our neighbor as we love ourselves. This answer hinges love of neighbor on love of self, revealing that in order to have the former, we must also have the latter.
As we consider loving ourselves, let’s remember what true love looks like. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, a passage we might already be familiar with, details the definition of love:
Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
You might be thinking, “That sounds great, but where am I supposed to get all this love to give to others?” The truth is, God who is love dwells within us. First, we must believe it – more and more. Then we can begin to receive it and embrace it, and allow his love to modify our own ways of thinking and flow out from us toward others. Being more deeply formed in God’s mind causes us to continually reform our ways of thinking and behaving until we are eventually thoroughly transformed. That’s holiness, which is the goal of this life for all of us. It’s not just for clergy and religious. We are all called to be holy.
If we pour a large amount of water into a container, the container will soon begin to overflow, much like we are called to overflow with God’s love for each other. Even if Niagara Falls is poured into a colander, at the end we will still have an empty colander. When we tear ourselves down in our own thoughts or self-talk, we poke colander-like holes in our hearts. No wonder we feel so empty! When our relationship with our own self is in shambles from our constant criticism, all the helps God wants to give us can’t find a place to hold on. Even forming and maintaining a healthy external relationship becomes nearly impossible when our internal relationship is hurtful. Next thing we know, we hit a rough patch in an external relationship and we begin to wonder where God is in it all.
St. Thomas Aquinas said, “What is received is received according to the mode of the receiver.”1 The way we relate to ourselves can be considered our mode. If we don’t believe we are lovable, we won’t be able to believe someone else loves us and their love can’t reach us. For this reason, it is crucial that we make an act of our will and conscious efforts to open to God’s grace so that when he tells us he loves us, we can allow his grace to convince our hearts that it is true. Then we will receive what we can and regard ourselves a little more charitably. He will tell us again, and we will embrace the truth a bit more, and so on. It’s a never-ending cycle; since there’s always more of him and we, with our cracks, tend to be a bit leaky.
It’s essential for us to make a shift in how we choose to relate to ourselves – it is a necessary part of being spiritually and emotionally responsible. Otherwise we are very prone to make the mistake of making God responsible for our emotions when we are the ones making ourselves miserable. If we constantly send ourselves the message that we’re not lovable, it only stands to reason it will be hard for us to believe he or anyone else could or would love me. Taking on the mind of Christ includes shifting how we think of ourselves to how he regards us. That is absolutely non-negotiable if we really believe he is God.
In the upcoming sections, we’ll break down the same aspects of connection we considered in connection to the Lord – knowing, valuing, and having healthy boundaries – so we can grow in our ability to fully accept, receive, and embody Jesus’ words and redeeming love for us.
May the Lord give you peace.
Margaret
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Episode 10 – The Eucharist Part IOn this two-part episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses the Eucharist, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, and Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians.
On Holy Thursday, Jesus knew he would depart from this world to the Father, and not wishing to leave his followers desolate, he gave us the sacrament of coming to us in the humble form of bread and wine as a testament to his unconditional love and mercy.
Jesus’ ardent love drives our Lord to be present in the thousands of tabernacles worldwide, where he patiently waits for our visits to embrace us in his eucharistic heart.
Through sighting historical and biblical evidence, James shares the meaning of Jesus’ real presence in the Eucharist and why the Eucharist is the summit of Christian life. He also debunks teachings against this fact, offering solid evidence disputing heretical mindsets.
This is the 10th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The Eucharist appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Image: Esther before Ahasuerus (1547-48) Painting by Tintoretto
Pray, Wait & DiscernAre you praying, waiting, and discerning? Have you ever prayed in a daunting situation? Were you looking for a quick solution? Sometimes a quick solution is not the best solution. In our podcast today, Esther shows us the value of prayer, but also why it’s important to wait and discern God’s solution.
Esther Puts Her Life on the LineEsther’s name comes from the Hebrew root “SIT-UR seter,” which means “concealed.” It suggests her identity would be concealed for a time, but the time had come for her to reveal her faith. Mordecai asked her to go to the king to stop the edict against the Jews, but without an invitation, she could be executed. Esther finally agreed to put her life on the line for such a time as this. She knew she needed God’s intervention, so she called for three days of fasting from food and water for all Jews, and even her maids. Then she would go to the king with the conclusion, “If I perish, I perish.” In the podcast today, we will cover these points.
The Third Day (Esther 5: 1-8)
- The “third day” in the Jewish faith is significant. A Jewish commentary suggests believed God’s deliverance for Israel would come after prayer on “the third day” (Midrash Raba, Esther).
- For example, in the Old Testament, Hosea 6: 2 says, After two days, He will revive us; on the third day, God will raise us up, that we may live before him. NRSV-CE
- The third day also connects to the Christian faith and Jesus’ resurrection.
Esther’s Gentle-Discerning Leadership (Esther 5: 5-7) Esther “stood” before the king, radiating inner strength and outer beauty from God. * Esther 15 (Deuterocanonical): the King invited Esther to him, saying: “Come near. 11 Then he raised the golden scepter and touched her neck with it; 12 he embraced her, and said, “Speak to me.” * Gentle leadership characterizes a leader who is kind, compassionate, loyal, and willing to listen to the needs of those around her. * A discerning leader prays and waits for God’s direction. * Queen Esther was truly a gentle and discerning leader.* She leaned completely on God for strength and guidance.
Esther’s Discernment and the First Banquet (Esther 5: 9-14)
- The fasting and prayers of Esther and God’s people changed the heart of the King.
- On the third day of fasting, Esther abandoned herself in total submission to God, put on royal robes to show her authority as Queen of Persia, and became the leader God designed her to be.
- Esther asked the king and Haman to a festive dinner banquet she had prepared.
- At the end of the meal, Esther delayed and again asked the king and Haman to come to a second dinner on the following day.
- God’s guidance and discernment indicated Esther needed to wait one more day.
Haman and His Prized Sons
- Haman boasted to his family and friends (v. 10-12). He had 12 sons.
- Historian Herodotus says the Persians prized a large number of sons, second only to great courage in war.
- Haman’s pride burst with pride at being invited to dinner twice with the king and queen of Persia.
- Only the sight of Mordecai, who would not bow to him, pricked his joy. His wife, Zeresh, suggested he build a 75-foot (50-cubit)- high gallows and hang Mordecai immediately.
Personal Reflection* Which principles on prayer, waiting and discernment will you apply? * I need to seek God with other pray-ers for support to stand firm in spiritual battles. * To become gentler and more discerning, I need to increase my time in prayer, repenting for myself and others, fasting, and waiting. * I want to rely more on God’s discernment. I must wait where God has placed me and invite his discernment and leadership. * I will try to remember this verse: Isaiah 40:31.“But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” NRSV-CE
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one. Read more (here) on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study. * Download Bookmarks from this podcast series: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY
The post Esther for This Time #6: Pray, Wait and Discern appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Jesus and His Mother ~ Episode 296Have you considered Jesus’s relationship with His Mother, Mary? By examining this aspect of Sacred Scripture, we can grow in our love for our Lord.
Thanks to our Sponsor, Harper Collins Christian: Kingdom Girls Bible
Girls will discover the power of faith in this beautiful Bible that features women of the Bible! Here is a Bible for girls on their journey of faith! This special Bible is specifically crafted to highlight the stories and lessons of the inspiring, famous, and sometimes infamous women of the Bible. From Eve to Ruth, Esther to Mary, this Bible brings the stories of these women to life and shows how their faith and strength can still inspire girls today. Check it out here!
A Son’s Love For His Mother:
Many of you listening have children or extended families. We know of the bond between mother and child and mother and son. We mothers have the ability to love without limit, and it grows with each child. Sometimes we wonder if we will have enough love, but then, our love expands. In our human condition, we have the ability to love, but can you imagine the love of the Son, Jesus Christ, for His Mother? Yet, we know Jesus and his mother spent time together; she raised him after all; she cooked, bathed, and took care of him. If we love our own parents, how much more did the Lord love his Mother?
Why would Jesus love his mother other than the obvious? When we read scripture, we can see the great sacrifice she went through and how his love must have expanded. Yes, I am using words we understand to describe a Divine occurrence, but we can, by our human reason (because faith requires reason), see between the lines because nowhere in Scripture does our Lord say, “I love you, Mother.”
Yet, by His Divine Nature, Jesus was obedient. His obedience was perfect. He was obedient unto death, death on a cross. Phil. 2:7-8 (Read on air.)
Sometimes, we forget that Jesus took his humanity in the womb of the Virgin Mary. He respected His mother and was always obedient. When he went to Temple at age 12 they were amazed at his wisdom and the questions he answered. He stayed with his parents until he was 30 years old always obeying. Mary was the one who caused him to start His ministry.
We can read the entire verse in John 2:1-12 — Please read and meditate on these verses; they say so much to me, and I get filled with awe every time I read and think about them.
This is the account of the wedding feast of Cana; they ran out of wine, and Mary offered her son’s services, basically to perform a miracle. Jesus said to her in John 2:4 – And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.”
When Jesus refers to his mother as a “woman” here, some people think it is a sign of disrespect. Can you imagine referring to your own mother as a woman? It might not go over too well. However, this was in fulfillment of Scripture. (remember, Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecies of the Old Testament!) But, this reference in particular is in regard to Genesis 3:15. Adam and Eve had sinned; Adam blamed Eve, “the woman you gave me,” and Eve blamed the serpent, “The serpent tricked me.” So, God, who is righteous and all good, not only cast them out of the Garden but said in Genesis 3:15 (Read on air).
The woman and Eve and the man, Adam, were the Old Testament symbols of disobedience. In the New Testament, the new Adam is Christ, and the new Eve (the obedient woman is Mary). The point Jesus made here to all those scripture scholars was clear. He was a fulfillment of the role of Savior, and His first public miracle was turning water into wine. But, not just any wine, the best they had tasted. John 2:4-6 (Read on air).
Mary always points to Jesus and says, “Do what He tells you.” John 2:11—(Read on air).
In other places in scripture, it says, “his hour had not yet come,” and he was able to escape or was not arrested, but at the request of His Mother, he was obedient. John 2:12 (Read on air.)
The hidden years, the years before the first miracle at the Wedding Feast of Cana, are called the hidden years. They are hidden from us because the scriptures do not reveal what went on in Jesus’s life in the home of Mary and Joseph. All we know is that Jesus was an obedient son and that he loved his parents. He loved Joseph, but Joseph was his stepfather. But Mary? Mary was his biological mother; she gave him life by her fiat, her yes.
Their relationship was special. Mary could count on her Son, and she knew in her heart that he was destined to do the Father’s will. He must have performed miracles at home because why else would she ask him to perform His first, publically? Can you imagine the joy of having such a Divine Son, yet with that joy comes crushing hardship and sorrow? Next week we will mediate on the road less traveled, the Stations of the Cross.
Before we end, I want you to know that the Lord, by His life, His death, and His Resurrection, gave us an example of a virtuous life. Join me as we pray. Today Lord, I want to share my love for you and my joy that You are My Savior. I ask, Lord, that you open my heart to be more virtuous and strive for those things that lift me up. I love you, and I thank you for the gift of my life. I ask for Your love and protection, now and forever. Amen.
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Testimony of Denny CharbonnetDenny grew up as an only child in a devout Catholic home. She attended Catholic schools. Her mother had breast cancer while Denny was in high school but recovered. Shortly after, she lost her father to an unexpected heart attack. Denny’s plans to attend Theatre Arts in NY were dashed. She married her high school sweetheart, but it was a troubled marriage and eventually ended in divorce.
While on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje in 1987, Denny experienced an undeniable, life-changing interaction with the Blessed Mother and the Holy Spirit. Involvement with the Charismatic Renewal further solidified her conversion experience and launched her into a lifelong relationship with our Lord and his mother, Mary.
Denny has always been quick to credit God’s guiding and sustaining hand in her life. She has taught Theater Arts to hundreds of students for the past 31 years at St. Paul’s Catholic High School in Covington and has used the stage as a forum to bring Christ’s Gospel message to both her students and audiences.
Denny’s role as a mother is her most precious gift. Her children followed in her evangelistic footsteps, attending Franciscan University of Steubenville, and volunteering their time in the Catholic Church in various ways. Her oldest son, Beau, is pastor at St. Angela Merici Catholic Church in Metarie, and her son, Jean, and daughter, Elise Angelette, who passed away from cancer, and her 10 grandchildren live close by on the Northshore.
Denny offers Romans 8:28 as the Scripture that has been written onto her heart in a profound way these past four years as she walked alongside her daughter Elise in her battle against breast cancer. “For we know that all things work for good for those who love the Lord Jesus Christ and are called according to His purpose.”
This testimony was given to the Marrero, LA, Chapter in September, 2018.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Denny Charbonnet appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Going DeeperWhen we take a moment to look at nature, we find that life is always a process. Whether it is the acorn becoming a mighty oak, an egg hatching into a duckling, or a baby growing into an adult, life is a process. Since physical life is a process, why would emotional and spiritual life be any different? We would never look at a toddler and think they are wrong or bad for not being an adult. The very idea is outrageous and would deny the beauty of the child and the process God has made.
The process of growth surrounds us. It is beautiful and wonderful to know that we always have more room for development in our relationship with God, as formation is a lifelong process! He is infinite! We grow when we allow him to increase our capacity for him and receive more of who he is. The more we receive of him, the more we are transformed into who we really are, the more our capacity for him increases, and so on.
Like any relationship, we first approach another by opening up and revealing the good things about ourselves. Next, we might show some of our less glorious moments, and begin to be vulnerable. Finally, we reveal our pain, our shame, and our weakness, that which we hold deep within us, hidden from view until we know it’s safe. Once we have a firm trust in another person’s acceptance of us, a bond is developed. We find this same pattern as we grow closer to the Lord.
As we begin to improve our relationship with our creator, we begin to see things as if through God’s eyes, which allows us to see Him more clearly and to be drawn more deeply into union with Him. This doesn’t happen once and is complete. Instead, we tend to follow a winding staircase as our deepening union with God reveals to us more dross, which we are then able to release. Liberation from our own garbage helps us know God even more closely and become more one with him. Good mental and physical health work together with our growing spiritual health. They are not at odds with each other, but together bring us into a state of wholeness and holiness that is our birthright as sons and daughters of God.
St. Thomas Aquinas said, “Grace does not destroy nature, but perfects it.”1 We need personal integration and rightly ordered relationships. By seeking God’s kingdom first, everything else falls into place. As we learn with the help of God to quiet the clamor and chaos of disorder, his grace brings wholeness to our lives. God’s perfecting work leads to fulfillment and order, personally and interpersonally.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what ways can you see you have grown in your relationship with God over time?
- What areas of your own formation are you growing in the most at this time?
- How might it help to consider your relationship with God as a process?
- How might it help you to consider other people’s relationships with God as a process?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank you for coming to us to reveal the heart of the Father and to redeem us in your love. It was not enough for you to save all mankind, but you desire a personal relationship with us. We want to grow closer to you every day. Please give us the grace to do so and to be patient with ourselves in the process. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
Action Step
What’s one thing you can do to take a step closer in the way you relate to the Lord? Take that step this week.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Ask the Lord to show you what the biggest block is to your receiving and responding to more of his love at this time in your life. Ask him what he wants you to know about that and journal what comes to you.
Scriptures for Meditation
Jeremiah 29:13
Luke 2:52
James 4:8
1 Peter 2:2
Revelation 3:20
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 9 – The Sacrament of ConfirmationOn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, delves into how Christ, through the Sacrament of Confirmation, sends us an outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is the second of the three sacraments of initiation. This Sacrament completes the Sacrament of Baptism and unites the confirmed more perfectly to the church, which is Christ’s mystical body. James explains how, through the Sacrament of Communion, Jesus marks each confirmed Christian with the “seal” of the Holy Spirit, empowering Christians to be faithful witnesses of Christ. James relays the story of the beautiful St. Agnes of Rome, who became a virgin martyr because of her commitment to Christ.
Additionally, James relays the characteristics of this unique “seal” — our belonging to Christ, a permanent enrollment to receive Christ’s services, and gives Christians a promise of divine protection and the final trial at the end of time. The confirmed person also receives the power to boldly proclaim faith in Christ publicly with courage.
James discusses several instances of how the Sacrament of Confirmation was foretold in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, Jesus proclaimed, “And when they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” (Luke 12:11-12).
James continues that with free will, the confirmed can either receive or block God’s grace and explains how when we are open to the Holy Spirit, this Sacrament roots us more deeply in divine affiliation, unites us more fully in a loving relationship with Christ, increases the gift of the holy spirit, renders our body with the church more perfectly, and provides a spirit of strength.
This is the 9th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The Sacrament of Confirmation appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Your Mission For Such a Time as ThisDo you have a mission for such a time as this? You indeed do, and this podcast will help you! Join us today as Queen Esther trusts the power of God in prayer, gains needed courage and discovers her mission.
A Passover Turned to WeepingIn Esther Chapter 3, Mordecai refuses to bow down and pay homage to Haman. Enraged Haman hatred for Jews and cast Purim (somewhat similar to our dice) to determine the date for the killing of all Jews throughout all of Persia. The king agreed, and the announcement for the annihilation of all the Jewish people was distributed throughout the kingdom on Passover—the very day Jewish families annually commemorate the time God delivered them from slavery in Egypt and saved their firstborn.
Now, their joy-filled Passover celebration was turned into a time of wailing. Could you imagine this happening to you, your family, or your church family on a celebration like Easter?
For Such a Time as This is a phrase that comes directly from Chapter 4 of the Book of Esther.
Today, we cover these points:
Sackcloth and Ashes (Esther 4: 1-4) Mordecai heard of the edict, and he sobbed greatly, tore his clothes, and put on sackcloth and ashes. He wailed and wept bitterly on the city square at the palace gate. * For all Jews, the happy celebration of Passover with family, friends, traditions, and food quickly turned into wailing, fasting, and prayer. According to Scripture, the Jewish people always linked prayer and repentance with fasting. * Sackcloth, made from grain bags, was scratchy and could cut the skin. It served as an act of penance and pleading with the Lord. Ashes, worn on the head or sat in, were a sign of self-humiliation and deep sorrow, often over a national disaster. See Joel 2:12 and 17* to summarize this Biblical purpose for fasting, weeping, and penance.
Persian Palace Life (Esther 4: 5-12)* Esther lived in the plush palace environment, but she may have become secluded from the world around her. She was not aware of Haman’s edict. * She tried to send clothes to Mordecai. Only when he refused the clothes did she ask what was wrong? Mordecai gave her the evidence of the edict, but she indicated she could not go to the king as he had not called for her in over 30 days. She could be put to death if he did not reach out.
National Fasting (Esther 4: 13-17)* Esther called a day of national fasting. * Throughout Old Testament history, fasting meant fervently calling out to God with a heart of repentance, sorrow, submission, and supplication to seek his help, protection, provision, and forgiveness. For example, refer to Judges 20, Deuteronomy 9, Joel 1-2, 1 Samuel, and Jonah 3. * Every year, according to Leviticus 23, all of Israel fasted on the Day of Atonement, and a scapegoat would be driven into the desert to represent the people’s sins (a foreshadowing of what Christ would do on the cross for us). As they prayed, repented, and humbled themselves, their sins would be taken from God’s sight on the scapegoat. * See Esther 13 and 14 for examples of how to intercede/pray for a nation from Esther and Mordecai’s prayers (e.g., praising God’s goodness, repenting for your sins and the sins of your nation, pouring out your heart to God, asking for God’s intervention).
Planning a Fast* Fasting is about aligning ourselves with God—drawing close to Him, worshiping Him, hearing from Him, repenting (turning), and changing our ways. * Fasting requires planning for most of us, but most importantly, it involves replacing our time spent focused on food and “busyness” with prayer and seeking the Lord. * A fast, drinking only water or juice, can last for a meal, a full day, or more. Fasting can also involve refraining from certain foods (see Daniel 10: 2-3). or refraining from distractions like media or television, internet usage, shopping for a certain amount of time, etc.). * For the plan, you may want to take five steps: (1) write down your objective, (2) decide how you will fast, (3) schedule time in adoration & personal prayer, (4) read God’s Word & ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you (e.g., John 14 and 15), and (5) believe that God will answer with discernment, direction, and/or a miracle. * In Esther’s case, an extreme response would be required for her to safely go to the King, so she called for an extreme fast— three days of abstaining from food and water for the entire nation!
Personal ReflectionToday, our story teaches us:
- At first, Esther was unaware that God had a mission for her—God planned to use her powerfully. With Mordecai’s help and God’s providence, she discerned her mission but was initially afraid and denied it.
- Esther needed fellow pray-ers. She asked her entire Jewish nation to pray, fast, repent, and seek God’s intervention. Only after three days of prayer and fasting did she find the grace and strength to proceed in her mission- to be used by God to save the Jewish People.
Application1. What is God’s mission for you at your place and time? The Lord Jesus has a mission for you. Ask Him in prayer. Often, it involves bringing God’s love and testimony to those around you. But sometimes, it may be more than you ever thought possible. 2. Finally, you can pray with St. John Henry Newman’s Prayer I Have a Place. Start with praying these few sentences: “I have a place in God’s counsels, in God’s world, which no one else has; whether I be rich or poor, despised or esteemed by man, God knows me and calls me by my name. God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me, which He has not committed to another. I have my mission…” The rest is in a free bookmark on my website WrapyourselfinJOY.com.
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one: Esther for this Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study. For questions, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com * You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY
The post Esther for This Time # 5 – Your Mission For Such a Time as This appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
What is your relationship with God? Who is God? Do we really know and understand the magnitude of our prayers or what the Almighty has done for us? In this podcast, we will discuss the mystery of God and explore, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” (Matthew 16:13)
Who is God? ~ Episode 295Thanks to our Sponsor, Harper Collins Christian: Kingdom Girls Bible
Girls will discover the power of faith in this beautiful Bible that features women of the Bible! Here is a Bible for girls on their journey of faith! This special Bible is specifically crafted to highlight the stories and lessons of the inspiring, famous, and sometimes infamous women of the Bible. From Eve to Ruth, Esther to Mary, this Bible brings the stories of these women to life and shows how their faith and strength can still inspire girls today. Featuring a beautiful design and easy-to-read text, this Bible is a great resource for girls growing in their faith and learning about the women who have impacted the world. Check it out here!
Many of us have grown up with some type of faith, but even if you haven’t, there may have been a prevailing sense that something out there existed. We are told in the first paragraph of the Catechism – 198: Our profession of faith begins with God, for God is the First and the Last,1 the beginning and the end of everything. The Credo begins with God the Father, for the Father is the first divine person of the Most Holy Trinity; our Creed begins with the creation of heaven and earth, for creation is the beginning and the foundation of all God’s works.
That is very good, but who is God? Years ago, I heard a debate between a creationist and an evolutionist. The creationist didn’t stick to the science; instead, he pointed out that the evidence for creation was in the Bible. Can you guess why he lost the debate? That’s right. The other person did not believe that the Bible was accurate, let alone that God created the world.
So, if the foundation, belief in God, isn’t there, the entire argument falls apart. Not just creation vs. evolution but faith vs. no faith.
God is undefinable. He is a mystery. He can only be understood (by me, anyway) under the premise of faith. My pastor always says to pray like this, “God, I love You as You Know Yourself to Be. Basically, that means we can not grasp the majesty of the Almighty, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, and so we pray in a way that is pleasing to Him and understood only by Him.
Too deep?
Seriously, I’ve been thinking about this question, and in looking at the hundreds of topics on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network and on this podcast, A Few Minutes with God, I’ve realized that we’ve discussed so many things, but not. Who. He. Is.
If I asked you to stop the audio and jot down short sentences describing God (and you can do this if you’d like), your list may look like this one:
Who Is God?1. God is the Creator. (Genesis 1:1 In the beginning when God created[a] the heavens and the earth.) 2. God is love. 1 John 4:8 (Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.) 3. God is our salvation. Pslam 68:19 (Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation) 4. God is our Savior. Acts 13:33 Of this man’s posterity God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as he promised; 5. God is the way of life and the truth. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
But Who is GOD?We can define God; we can talk about the virtues evident in God. We can discuss the Trinity, but the word Trinity is not found in Scripture. However, we are taught about God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. One God and three distinct persons.
We read in Matthew 28:19: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
We baptize as Christians in the Name of the Trinity.
But what did Jesus say about himself, his divinity? Matthew 16:13-19 not only tells us about who Jesus is but also the power He bestows upon men. In this case his disciples. (Read on air.)
Reading that passage, we learn many things.
- Jesus is defining himself by asking the question, “But who do you say that I am?” The reference “I Am Who Am” Exodus 2:14 – God said to Moses, “I am who I am.”[a] He said further, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘I am has sent me to you.’”
- Simon Peter, the first disciple to define Jesus correctly, says, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
- The Holy Spirit (Father in Heaven) revealed this to Peter.
- On this rock, I shall build my church – the foundation of Christianity (as an aside, Catholics believe that Peter was the first pope, which is why the papacy is called the “Petrine” office. The pope is the Bishop of Rome. Jesus further confirms this when he says, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bin on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
- Do not tell anyone that I am the Messiah — why!
In conclusion, what we say we know about God is a tiny microscopic speck of who He actually is, and it takes faith that can only be given by the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to change our hardened hearts. Please make an effort to seek God, no matter where you are in your spiritual walk. Just be still before the Lord and say the words, “Here I am Lord, I come to do your will,” and watch the miracles happen in your life. Praise Be Jesus Christ now and forever, Amen.
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It’s Good to Prepare for PrayerSometimes, prayer becomes difficult because we can’t decide what to do, when to pray, or where is the best place—so many questions when all we want to do is sit down and focus on the Lord for a bit. As I listened and talked with people, I realized that often, what is lacking is a concrete plan to make prayer happen. I pulled a few of my favorite ways to be ready when it is time to pray.
5 Ideas for You1. Decide ahead of time what type of prayer you will pray. There are many options, and it can be overwhelming. Choosing in advance means one less thing to think about. You might even make up a weekly schedule of different types of prayer each day. 2. Put together your prayer tools. If you are using a Bible, journal, pen, or pencil, put it in a bag or basket. If you are reading a book or praying a specific novena – whatever it is, leave it out or near your prayer space. Which brings me to 3. be consistent in your place and time of prayer. At times, we may go elsewhere to pray in Adoration or outdoors, but where is your usual place? What is your usual time? Pro tip: pick a time when you are not sleepy. If it helps, schedule it in your calendar. 4. Keep it simple. Focus on God and quiet, not the externals of candles, special lighting, incense, music. The more that has to be set up, the less time for actual prayer! 5. If you are distracted in prayer, before settling down to pray, make a list of what is going on in your mind. Then, when prayer time is over, it will still be there. And solutions may come to you during prayer for some problems.
BonusI believe quiet and silence are non-negotiables in prayer. No matter how, when, or where, I encourage you to spend time looking at God and allowing him to look at you. Silence gives God room to make himself known. He comes to us in stillness, not noise.
I’d love to come speak to your group or parish. You can look here for previous talks but know that I love to craft new talks specific to your needs.
The post 5 Ways to Prepare for Prayer appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Deacon Kevin HelfersDeacon Kevin Helfers was ordained in the Diocese of San Diego in June of 2018 as a permanent deacon in the Catholic Church. He has been married to his wife Yvette for 31 years and together they have six children and four grandchildren. Kevin and Yvette have been active in Cursillo for 30 years and have been active in youth ministry, RCIA, bible studies and other charismatic prayer groups. Kevin was raised Baptist and attended various other Christian churches. Yvette was a cradle Catholic and as they became parents, they knew it was necessary to find common ground to raise their children.
Reluctantly, Kevin entered RCIA not convinced this would end well. But God had other plans and revealed them in part through a vision and ignited an excitement for serving God’s People that ultimately led him to be open to the diaconate. As a Deacon Kevin has been growing in his spiritual gifts and learning to be guided by the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Just this last year after completing the Encounter School of Ministry program he has begun to teach and encourage others what Jesus meant in John 14:12 when he told his disciples “Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father”. Deacon Kevin shares his excitement and inspirational story of the Holy Spirit working in his life.
This testimony was given to the North County San Diego Magnificat Chapter in February, 2024.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
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PowerlessnessThe common denominator throughout almost every experience that causes us suffering is that of powerlessness. As people, we have limited ability to affect change in situations that are difficult for us or for those we care about. This in no way diminishes our fundamental value; it simply part of the human condition. We come into the world almost totally powerless. As we grow and develop and gain power, we have to learn to navigate our abilities without running over others, literally and metaphorically. Even though our ability to cause change increases as time goes by, we still have limitations. These limitations can at times mean inconvenience for us and at other times they may lead to great suffering. Regardless of our age, we always have a limit to our power.
What we do with our powerlessness greatly affects our spiritual life, peace, and joy. If we meet times when we don’t have power with pride, our self-reliant response will fail. Our failure leads to shame and shame leads to a desire to hide. When we hide, the isolation can lead to disconnection and deeper suffering. We don’t have to look very far to see this pattern in people of all ages when faced with challenging situations. There is a better response. We can choose to accept the fact of our helplessness and meet the difficulty with gratitude that all will be used by God as gift for us, no matter how painful it may seem at the time. When we choose this way of interpreting a difficult situation, our faith and hope in God transforms the very same situation. Even though from the outside it may seem that nothing has changed, our ability to stay aware of the truth that God is with us and for us can help us to remain at peace.
St. Francis of Assisi had a particular devotion to Jesus’ incarnation, his suffering and death on the cross, and the Eucharist. He was awestruck by the humility of the omnipotent God who chose to make himself powerless to stoop down to us and raise us up to him. In doing so, Jesus gave us these three profound examples of how to embrace our own powerlessness. When we have times when we are painfully out of control, we can take consolation in the fact that the Lord understands our experience and we can trust that he is present to us through them. They can be occasions for intimacy with him if we choose to endure them with him. There is something about accepting and even embracing our powerlessness that prevents us from complicating already difficult situations. Walking through the trouble with Jesus enables us to reject the temptation to put inordinate pressure on ourselves (or others) to fix things that are beyond our control. Once we’ve done all the Lord has asked of us, we lay the experience at his feet with hope, not for a particular outcome, but hope in him and his goodness that will use the trial for our good.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What emotions arise in you when you think of Jesus choosing to embrace powerlessness as a baby, at his death, and in the Eucharist?
- What emotions arise in you when you think of being powerless?
- What do you think about the idea of embracing your powerlessness as imitation of the Lord?
- Do you think it would affect your experiences of suffering to consider them as occasions for intimacy with the Lord, as a sharing in his powerlessness and an imitation of him?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank you for the immensity of your omnipotence and the exceeding humility with which you laid your majesty aside for our sake, to embrace the incarnation, your suffering, and to remain with us in the Holy Eucharist. Thank you for showing us how deeply you desire intimacy with us and for leaving us examples of how to embrace the powerlessness of our humanity. Help us to remember that you are with us always in the Blessed Sacrament. We pray all this in your holy name. Amen.
Action Step
Find a time our Lord set aside his omnipotence for our sake and place a reminder of it, either as a scripture quote, an image, a song, etc., somewhere you will see it throughout the week.
Journaling/Reflection
Ask the Lord to show you what you most fear about your own powerlessness and invite his perfect love into that place of fear.
Scriptures for Meditation
Mark 10:45
Luke 1:26-38
John 13:3-72
Corinthians 8:9
Philippians 2:5-11
Hebrews 4:15
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 8 – The Sacrament of BaptismOn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, explains the Sacrament of Baptism in four parts. First, James explains what it meant when Jesus declared himself “the living water.” “Whoever believes in me, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” (John 7:38). Second, the necessity of Baptism, how Baptism was used in the early church, and what the Sacrament of Baptism does for the individual.
Jesus’ body is the true temple of God and was foreshadowed by the prophet Ezekiel. “I saw water flowing out from under the threshold of the temple toward the east, for the front of the temple faced east. The water flowed out toward the right side of the temple to the south of the altar. (Ezekiel 47:1) James relays more biblical examples that identify Jesus as the life-giving water to eternal life.
In his crucifixion on the cross, Jesus gives his bride the Holy Spirit—the “living” water that flows from his pierced side. This living water is the marital bath that cleanses Jesus’ bride from sin so she can be wedded to Christ through the sacrament of Baptism. James also describes additional “water” symbolism that explains how we are reborn by Baptism. Jesus answered, “Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5). James also highlights the necessity of Baptism and how this sacrament forgives sins, demonstrates obedience to what Jesus commands for entrance into Christ’s church, and other examples of what God’s mercy and Baptism do for souls.
This is the 8th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The Sacrament of Baptism appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Unwavering Resolve & the First EdictEsther 3: 8 Painting: “Haman Convinces Ahasuerus” by Masters, 1420 AD
Do you ever have unwavering resolve? In relationships, we use compromise for cooperation and keeping the peace. Nonetheless, we must stand firm, determined, and unshakable in some situations. Join us today as Esther reveals the importance of unwavering resolve in difficult times.
Persia, 474 BC – Five Years After Esther’s BanquetWelcome to Esther & Turnaround Joy Episode #4: Unwavering Resolve & the First Edict, where we encounter Esther and Mordecai five years after King Ahasuerus sponsored the beauty contest, crowned Esther as queen and celebrated with Esther’s banquet.
Next, we watch as the providential hand of God becomes more evident. We will see why God put Esther in a position of influence—even before the Jewish people faced the possibility of annihilation. It’s 474 BC, and we join Mordecai as he stands near the palace gate and overhears a plot to kill the king. We cover these points:
Mordecai at the Palace Gate & Assassination Plot Foiled (Esther 2: 19-23)* Mordecai is “sitting at the gate” checking on Esther and likely working in a government position. * Mordecai told Esther not to reveal her nationality. * While at the gate, Mordecai overheard a plot to kill King Ahasuerus and reported it to Esther, who told the king. He hanged the would-be assassins Bigthan and Teresh. * Acts of loyalty like Mordecai’s were officially recorded so the king could reward the hero.
Mordecai is Resolute (Esther 3: 1-6) Mordecai stood firm with unwavering resolve, which means firm, determined, not shakable, and displaying unwavering loyalty. (Vocabulary.com dictionary). * Therefore, he refused to bow down to Haman because God had commanded the Jewish people not to bow in adoration to anyone (e.g., Exodus 20: 3-*6). * Haman was the king’s top advisor and “an enemy of the Jews” (Esther 3:10). * Haman was an Agagite, a descendent of King Agag of the Amalekites, who was of a fierce nomadic tribe that made their living by raiding settlements, killing the men, women, and children, and then taking their possessions. They had a “blood feud” with Israel, which demanded total extermination of the Israelites (see Exodus 17 and Deuteronomy 25).
The Pur, the Plan, and the Drink (Esther 3: 7-15 & Esther 13)The Pur Mordecai stood firm in his faith and obedience to God’s law and would not bow to Haman. * Infuriated Haman in April 374 BC cast the pur – purim is the plural form. * The Purim were similar to our dice and were thrown to help make decisions and choose dates. * Esther 3:7 indicates the pur* fell on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Aadar, March 7, 374 BC, for destroying all Jews.
The Plan* Haman offered the king 10,000 talents or about 375 tons of silver, which of course he hoped to acquire by killing Jewish families and plundering their homes. * King Ahasuerus gave Haman his signet ring, his signature used to stamp the wax on an official letter from the king. * Haman summoned the scribes to draft the edict on the day before Passover- April 17th, 474 BC (Esther 3:12). * The announcement was sent out to the 127 provinces of the Persian Empire on Passover—the day Jewish families annually commemorated God delivering them from slavery (see Exodus 12). The date was chosen to dishearten and terrorize the Jewish people. * The Passover celebration with family and friends quickly became a day of confusion and weeping. How ironic! The day of the announcement would fall on a commemoration of God’s deliverance. Could God again deliver them from destruction? It would be only God who could!
The Drink* To Haman and the king, it was just another day to celebrate their power, so they had a drink. * Haman’s heart was hardened with generational hatred, so he rejoiced in the genocide of the Jews. * Hebrews 4: 13 reminds us: “before him [God] no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.” * Little did Haman know that the God of heaven was in control.
Personal Reflection: Unwavering Resolve We witnessed a good example of unwavering resolve with Mordecai. He showed us there are times for unwavering resolve when we must follow God no matter the cost. We cannot deny God’s commandments ever. * Mordecai refused to bow in worship to anyone other than the God of heaven and earth. He followed Exodus 20, “You shall have no other gods beside Me…You shall not bow down to them…” * Psalm 119: 2-4 reminds us: “2 Happy [blessed and joyful] are all who search for God and always do his will, rejecting compromise with evil and walking only in his paths. You [O God] have given us your laws to obey. * Unwavering resolve and devotion to God may be met with persecution. However, I can stay strong in the Lord and keep his commandments. 1 Corinthians 16: 13-14 says: Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.* * Ask God, ”Where do you want me to have unwavering resolve?” Henceforth, ask God for help to be resolute. He will give it to you.
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one: Esther for this Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study. For questions, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com * You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY
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When you feel let down or are suffering, don’t suffer alone! There is no need. The victory is won, and you can rejoice in the good news. Join Felice Gerwitz as she shares her thoughts and ponders about God’s Word and how He will never disappoint you.
Don’t Suffer Alone ~ Episode 294Thanks to our Sponsor, Harper Collins Christian: Kingdom Girls Bible
Girls will discover the power of faith in this beautiful Bible that features women of the Bible! Here is a Bible for girls on their journey of faith! This special Bible is specifically crafted to highlight the stories and lessons of the inspiring, famous, and sometimes infamous women of the Bible. From Eve to Ruth, Esther to Mary, this Bible brings the stories of these women to life and shows how their faith and strength can still inspire girls today. Featuring a beautiful design and easy-to-read text, this Bible is a great resource for girls growing in their faith and learning about the women who have impacted the world. Check it out here!
Have things been rough lately? Have you struggled with just making it through the day? Everyone I’ve talked to, myself included, feels like we’re under attack. Things are going wrong in an unprecedented manner, and to make matters worse, it doesn’t seem to get better.
When you’re going through hardships, it is hard not to place blame on the individuals who caused you harm or the situation, yet it is only through his permissive will that we are allowed to suffer, for lack of a better word. God knows it’s happening. Nothing surprises him; truthfully, that is a comfort for me. The situation may surprise me, but it’s not a surprise for him. I know that God has this, even if I don’t. Hardships happen. (Story shared on air).
Other friends spoke about their hardships, illnesses, family loss, financial issues, and lawsuits. In the grand scheme of things, when we discuss life everlasting in heaven) these events, while complex and tragic, are fleeting. We don’t have to do it alone, we don’t have to suffer alone, and we are not alone. The Lord gives renewed grace to deal with these issues.
Don’t Suffer AloneToday, we will rejoice and be glad, not only because the Lord does hear our prayers but because He has mercy upon us. Just look at the book of Daniel, particularly Daniel Chapter 3. We read about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. It is a powerful lesson for us all — for when you feel alone, for when you are defeated, for when you think there is no hope. The three are put in the furnace to burn because they angered the King. At first, they praised the Lord, repented, and lamented to the Lord that they no longer had a leader (sound familiar) and had been handed over to their enemies. But they asked for mercy. Again, please read it all yourself, but I wanted to focus on this portion for you, Daniel 3 42-45 (read on air.)
Then it goes on in verses Daniel 3:46-50, and I am paraphrasing here — The angel of the Lord comes down having heard the prayer of Azariah and his companions, and we read he drove the fiery flame out of the furnace and made the inside of the furnace as though a moist wind were whistling through it. The fire did not touch them and caused them no pain or distress.
God sent an angel to drive away the flames. He can also do that for us because when we suffer, we feel as if we are consumed; we can’t think of anything else, and all we can do is dwell on the issue. But we should know by now, especially if you are a long-time listener, that God is in charge. We further read in verses 51-56 (read on air)
Here are some past episodes that may help:
Overcome Daily Struggles
Fill Up Your Spiritual Tank
Your Heart, Your Faith
Those verses should make you rejoice in the Lord. Even amid hardships
The Lord knows our hearts, and he knows when we are hurting, when we are distressed, when we feel broken. He knows our hearts when we are happy and rejoicing and good things are happening in our lives. So what should we do? We rejoice and be glad we thank God for everything, even the hardships, and we pray for those who have hurt us. That friend is the hardest thing to do! Why is forgiveness so difficult when God forgives us? I think for one reason: it’s because of the injustice we see in the situation. We look at it with human eyes and say oh my gosh, why is this happening to these people we know, or why is this happening to us?
But if we spend our time realizing that everything that happens is allowed in our life by the Almighty’s permissive will, then we know it’s for a greater purpose, and what is that purpose? It is so that we can grow closer to him. One of our dear elderly pastors always makes the overarching remark about the New and Old Testament, which can be summed up in the thought that God wants a relationship with his people. Isn’t that true?
So, let’s not suffer alone. Let’s turn toward the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Let’s pray; let’s read the Word of God. The Almighty is waiting for us. He wants a relationship with us! He is there, and he is the constant in our lives. When we suffer, we pray and ask our friends to intercede for us and our heavenly friends, such as the saints who have gone before us.
Instead of getting bogged down with semantics, worrying about the outcome, and doing all the things the enemy wants us to do, which will take her eyes off of God, we need to focus on him. Recently, something good happened in our lives, and my husband and I were stunned that we were not joyful and jumping up and down. Instead, we were worn out by the ordeal that happened beforehand, and that’s all we could focus on, so we began to pray for those involved and praised God for the good results!
Friend, this is what our enemy does. He keeps us focused on the things that do not matter and keeps our eyes off of the Lord and toward ourselves, angry toward others who have wronged us, and towards situations we have no control over. I hope it helps you to realize that we all suffer. No one’s life is perfect, and altogether, this side of heaven, so friends, I leave you with this thought: You do not need to suffer alone; rejoice in the Lord always!
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Testimony of Fr. Kyle Gorenski
Fr. Kyle Gorenski was raised in a Catholic home in Rhode Island. His mother was devout, and she was involved in many ministries in the Church, his father was a Sunday Catholic. He was the 2nd sibling of four brothers. High School was a struggle for Kyle as he had several learning disabilities. He contemplated becoming a priest but found out that it required much more schooling, so he put the thought aside. Kyle chose not to go to college and enlisted in the Army. He had three tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. His self-image improved and he learned not to give up. After two tours, he came home and got a job as a State Highway Patrolman. He enjoyed the job but felt something was missing. Kyle entered the Seminary in Rhode Island, but his grade point was low, and was asked to leave. He pursued his quest to become a priest and applied to many dioceses in New England. The Diocese of Albany, NY, accepted Kyle and he was able to complete his studies despite his low academic prowess, thanks to a parish priest who believed in his calling to the priesthood.
This testimony was given to the Vancouver Magnificat Chapter in June, 2022.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Fr. Kyle Gorenski appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Knowing MyselfWhat is the truth of who we are as God sees us? In creating us he made us in his own image and likeness and called us very good. (Genesis 1:31) He called us his own and bound himself in covenant with us. He has a plan for our good. He sent his only Son to reveal the depths of his love and mercy to us and to adopt us as his children. He has every hair of our head counted. (Luke 12:7) He gives himself to us intimately through the Eucharist and runs to embrace us as soon as we turn to make our way back to him after we fall.
In being a missionary of God’s love to ourselves, it’s necessary to know something about ourselves. It’s important to take time to get to know what we need in order to be at our best. When we grow in knowledge of our strengths and weaknesses and learn what motivates us, we are able to understand ourselves as the gift God made. This self-knowledge gives us an insight into the needs of others, as well. Coming to understand ourselves better doesn’t mean that we will necessarily look to the fulfillment of our selfish desires; rather we are more equipped to stay along the narrow way to the Lord. It really is like taking a step back and considering our soul as a little child. With greater understanding of who we are as individuals, we can have better patience, wisdom, and counsel for ourselves. This is self-talk at its best.
Without true self-knowledge, we inevitably end up desperate to be known by others. While we are made for community with our brothers and sisters, it is meant to be from a place of health, reciprocity and freedom, not a place of anxious need. Sadly, if we are frantic to be known by others, we devalue ourselves, disregard the healthy boundaries we need, risk crossing others’ limits, and end up relating to them as a means to an end, without being present to the gift they are. Happily, when we start from a place of being filled by the Lord’s knowledge of us and taking on his mindset about ourselves, we start from a place of fullness rather than starvation. This is how we can foster peace in our lives and in our relationships and drastically reduce unnecessary complications, pain and even trauma.
Using how God sees us as the gold standard of truth makes us fearless in self-examination. It’s amazing how powerful this can be – like an inoculation against comparison, judgment and rejection, even of ourselves. A quote I mentioned before is “God sees sin as pain in us”1 from Blessed Julian of Norwich. When we look at ourselves with God’s eyes, we don’t hide in shame and can get back on the right track much more quickly when we stumble. Even our sin, as God sees it, is an occasion for compassion. We don’t have to worry that forgiving ourselves for sin or weakness will lead to complacency if we remain open to the Lord. The compassion of God is always oriented to making us more like him.
May the Lord give you peace.
Margaret
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Episode 7 – God’s GraceOn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, explains how grace heals us, how Martin Luther was in error in explaining grace, how Jesus established His church as the instrument in which his grace comes to us, the importance of good works and how the sacraments lead to have grace and live the Christian life.
Sin and death came to the world through Adam and led to condemnation for all men; one man’s act of righteousness — Jesus’ life, passion, death, and resurrection led to the acquittal of sin, grace, and life.
Christians have always believed in the redemptive power of Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection. In the 16th century, however, Martin Luther promoted a flawed understanding of what God’s grace does for us and how we must respond. Luther confused the tendency to sin (temptation) with actual sin. Luther taught human nature was essentially corrupt even after receiving the grace of redemption; thus, good works that please God were impossible. This distortion makes Adam’s sin more potent than the merits of Jesus Christ. Luther also taught salvation by faith alone and that the Bible is the only authority—not the church. James discusses how this belief is not historical or biblical and how the flaws and problems that developed with the perpetuation of this false belief caused a severe fracture between Christians. James also details the role and importance of good works, how we receive grace through good works, and how they constitute the Christian life.
This is the 7th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Esther Bedecked by Aert de Gerder, 1684; The Painting shows Esther about to be crowned & bedecked in an ermine-edged coat
The Spa & A New QueenAre you seeking attractiveness and favor with others? On the way to becoming queen, Esther offers us an example of attractiveness, God’s way. Join us today at the Spa, circa 479 BC, and hear how the attractiveness of heart wins friends and favor and witness the providence of God unfold.
Persia, 479 BC* Four years have passed between Chapters One and Two of Esther (see Esther 1:3 and 2: 16). According to Greek historian Herodotus, during that time, King Ahasuerus suffered a great military defeat by the Greeks and returned home to consume himself with overindulgence and sensuality. * He also missed the lasting relationship with his beautiful wife, Queen Vashti, whom he dethroned at his last party. The king’s advisors suggest a beauty contest with exotic spa treatments to help find a new queen. So today we are off to the spa to witness a new queen’s crowning.
Mordecai Brings Up Esther (Esther 2: 1-8) Mordecai was introduced as a Jew* in the family line of Kish (King Saul’s family) of the tribe of Benjamin. (Calling him a Jew repeatedly suggests that he was somehow still a foreigner and not completely accepted into secular Persia.) A person’s family line shows his status in Jewish lineage. When the Scriptures mention Nebuchadnezzar carried away Kish, the verses refer to the Babylonian captivity, with a second forced removal involving King Jeconiah of Judah in 597 BC. Likely, Mordecai’s grandfather and family members were among those taken captive in 597 BC. * Mordecai was born in Susa of Persia after the defeat of the Babylonian Empire. He and his family had chosen not to return to Jerusalem when Cyrus the Great allowed the Jews to return home beginning in 539 BC. * Esther was introduced as Mordecai’s younger cousin (Esther 2:7) whom he raised because she had been orphaned. Likely, her parents died when she was young. So it would have been Mordecai who taught her the Hebrew Scriptures and the Jewish faith
Esther & The Spa Treatments (Esther 2: 9-12)* The beauty contest was not the usual Persian way to select a queen. Normally, kings took their wives from the families of the Persian nobles, which is probably how King Ahasuerus crowned Vashti. However, a self-indulgent and powerful king could choose any woman he wanted for a wife. * In Susa, Esther was given seven servants plus food, probably laden with oils to fatten her up and help her display the Persian ideal of beauty. The women were given oil baths of delicious-smelling flowers and herbs to soften the skin and add a fragrant aroma. * At Susa, Divine Providence – God unfolding his purposes – becomes more visible to the spiritual eye, as we notice Esther found favor with Hegai.
Esther is Crowned Queen (Esther 2: 12 -18)* After twelve months of beauty treatments, it was Esther’s turn to come before the king. * Esther pleased the king, even though we do not know the details or how this happened in one evening. Obviously, the king saw her inner and outer beauty—the first woman that pleased him since Vashti. It was Divine Providence behind the scenes that surely turned the king’s heart toward Esther, even if she was only cooperating with circumstances that were beyond her control.
Esther’s Banquet When King Ahasuerus crowned Esther as his Queen, he. gave another party, calling it Esther’s Banquet*. This celebration included both men and women, generous gifts, and even tax relief.
Personal ReflectionToday, our story teaches us:
- The Lord can turn the heart of a leader. We can trust and pray that He does in our times as well.
- God is at work even though we don’t see him right away. We can pray to see God active in the scenes of our lives, for he is surely there at work.
- Ultimately it is God who turns the heart of the king. He gave Esther favor, and her inner beauty seemed to capture the king’s favor and love.
Personal Application & God’s Attractiveness Plan * Read Proverbs 31: 30 and 1 Peter 3: 3 to summarize God’s beauty plan. * Proverbs 31: 30. Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting, but a woman who fears [worships, honors, and respects] the Lord is to be praised. (GNT) Obviously, with age, beauty fades, but to worship, honor and respect God creates a lasting attractiveness that appeals to others too. God blesses all of our attempts to honor Him. So how is your attractiveness quotient when you consider spending time daily to worship and honor God is an important part of any beauty plan? * 1 Peter 3:3-4. Don’t depend on things like fancy hairdos or gold jewelry or expensive clothes [outward adorning] to make you look beautiful. 4Be beautiful in your heart by being gentle and quiet [with a calm temper and contented mind]. This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special [precious in His sight]. (GNT) It’s not that God objects to putting our best foot forward, so to speak, or trying to look our best at any age, but His Word suggests an attractiveness plan. * Does your attractiveness plan include a gentle, quiet spirit with a calm temper and contented mind or demeanor? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you. Ephesians 5: 22 says, the fruit of the Holy Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, and more in our lives.
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one: Esther for this Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour small group discussion and study. For questions, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com * You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY
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Love of Family ~ Episode 294The love of family comes from an outpouring of our love for God. In this episode, we will discuss why our families should be a priority after our love of the Lord.
Thanks to our Sponsor: Harper Collins Christian: Kingdom Girls Bible
Girls will discover the power of faith in this beautiful Bible that features women of the Bible! Here is the ideal Bible for girls on their journey of faith! This special Bible is specifically crafted to highlight the stories and lessons of the inspiring, famous, and sometimes infamous women of the Bible. From Eve to Ruth, Esther to Mary, this Bible brings the stories of these women to life and shows how their faith and strength can still inspire girls today. Featuring a beautiful design and easy-to-read text, this Bible is a great resource for girls as they grow in their own faith and learn about the women who have impacted the world. Check it out here!
I read an article that claimed most people don’t really love their family. They feel a sense of obligation and duty. What? While we may feel a sense of obligation and duty, that typically happens because we love our family, not as a result of some mistaken obligation. You and I know that our families are under attack, but we have the source of all goodness and truth, that is, the Bible.
Family and marriage have value, and by virtue we are following in the mandate God gave in Genesis 1:28 “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it.” We are also told that marriage and family is an honor – Hebrews 13:4 (Read on air)
That is not what we hear from those who are in the world, and sadly, even among Christians who believe that living together is a good idea, especially as it saves money and gives each person a chance to see if the relationship will work. Statistics show that among those who live together before marriage, the rate of divorce is higher.
STATS here.
Most Christians get married, but some are led to a life of celibacy, for example, priests, nuns, and other religious as well as lay people. Yet, even singles would agree that family is important. So, why do the world and the secularists continuously try to minimize godly love or the love of family because they want the family destroyed? Why is this?
If you destroy the family, you destroy society. We were created in the image and likeness of God, and the enemy hates us! One-third of the angels refused to serve God it was infact due to pride. A link here to Biblical verses.
Jesus says in Luke 10: 16-20 (Read on air).
Let’s rejoice that are names are written in heaven but realize that disruption in families begins by dividing the spouse and the children from their parents. It begins slowly with including people in commercials that are not godly examples.
There was a headline that caught my attention, and it read: Extinction activist wants humans to voluntarily die out: ‘Feed ‘em, don’t breed ‘em’ – I have a link in the show notes for you to see for yourself –Here you will read about
What is happening in our world? What is happening to all of those who follow the Lord but remain silent? Friends, we must pray – Proverbs 18:21 states. (Read on air).
Isaiah 54:10 (Read on air).
I recently interviewed Kirk Cameron on my podcast for homeschoolers, Vintage Homeschool Moms – link here. He made a compelling argument for the state of American Family Values, and he said it happened on our watch. Wow – he is right. It happened when so many of us were afraid to speak up, but if God is in it – if God leads us, we will have the grace to follow through. Here is an actor who could spend his time however he wants and instead is fighting for families.
We know God is merciful.
Psalm 86:15. (read on air).
He is merciful, but he is also a just God.
No doubt, the breakdown of the family is Satan’s prime target because he knows that marriage is the earthly representation of the relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:22-32). And if he can destroy the marriage (and family), he can destroy the church. For this reason, we must always be ready to fight against his attacks by arming ourselves with the weapons of war as found in Ephesians 6:4-20: The first verse begins with Fathers,[a] do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. ” but it ends with the Armor of God, because friends, we need that Armor!
We must be the beautitudes. This could take up an entire podcast, but I recently read Matthew 5:1-10 and felt like my eyes were opened. It moved me, and it sums up what our attitudes should be as Christians.
Matthew 5:1-10 (read on air)
… do we want to enter the kingdom of God? Here is the path, the direction, the outline, if you will. To be poor in spirit, to allow to comfort us when we mourn, to be meek, thirst for righteousness, be merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and if we are persecuted for righteousness sake, we will receive the kingdom of heaven.
To serve our families in a selfless matter, whether they appreciate it or not, to serve our friends and those in need, and that friends is what a Christian looks like – Amen!
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SufferingThere are times in all our lives when we go through trials: illness, rejection, abuse, death of a loved one, or loss of a dream, just to name a few. When such things happen, it can be difficult to stay rooted in the truth of God’s connection to us. Even if we’ve had mountaintop experiences of God’s love, sufferings such as these can cause us to feel isolated, disconnected, or abandoned, even from our all-loving creator.
Let’s take a look at the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary when the archangel Gabriel appeared to her. He greeted her as “favored one” (Luke 1:28). He went on to promise that the son she would conceive would rule with greatness over an everlasting kingdom. Yet, she is the Mother of Sorrows. She went on to be told, by Simeon, that a sword of sorrow would pierce her heart. She had to flee to Egypt to protect her newborn baby, watched him be contradicted continually throughout his life, deserted by his closest friends, mocked and mercilessly tortured, and subjected to a shameful death without seeing the fulfillment of those promises. It was not because God didn’t see who she was or value her. Remember, she is highly favored. We see the greatest example in Jesus himself, whom the Father called his beloved Son, and yet the cup of abuse and death was not taken away from him.
These cases show us that God has a much bigger big picture than ours. He is outside of time and sees all eternity. When suffering comes, it is not a result of not being loved and valued by the Lord. He will work all things to our good, even if it does not happen in this life. We’re used to watching sports or playing games – whoever has the most points at the end is victorious. In this life, we don’t see the scoreboard. Only after death will we know fully how God, who will not be outdone in generosity, will repay all we have to endure.
When Jesus was betrayed, Peter was so terrified of physical suffering he three times denied knowing him. Even so, only days after the Lord’s resurrection the Acts of the Apostles presents us with a bold and courageous Peter proclaiming the truth regardless of threat and persecution. He even rejoiced when he was physically abused for the sake of preaching about Jesus. Peter finally learned through the Lord’s resurrection what Jesus had told him all along; His kingdom is not of this world. When we remember the same fact, we are able to keep our view on eternity rather than seeking our reward in this life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Recall a time of suffering or trial in your life. Did you question God’s love, value, or protection of you? Why or why not?
- What, if anything, have you found helpful to remind yourself of God’s love and to connect to him during painful times?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we know you suffered and left us an example of faith in our Father’s love. Please grant us the grace to follow you. Remind us of the Father’s constant love for us, even in the most difficult times. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
Action Step
Consider what it is you are most caused to doubt about God during times of suffering. Write a letter to yourself reminding yourself of God’s love that you can read when difficulties come your way.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Consider your answer from number two in the discussion questions. Ask the Lord what he wants you to know about that and note what he brings to mind.
Scriptures for Meditation
Sirach 2
Wisdom 3:1-9
Luke 2:34-35
Romans 11:33-36
Hebrews 4:14-16
Even amid your sufferings, may the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Testimony of Mildred MoyMildred Moy was born in Hong Kong. She was the youngest of four girls. She was a very shy child. She was born and raised Catholic and received a Catholic education through High School. Her mother fostered in her a close relationship with the Virgin Mary. Her mother told her that the Blessed Mother never fails to console her when she is sad, and Jesus loves us, and we can trust him in everything. Mildred moved to Vancouver, Canada when she was 17 and attended college. She graduated with a degree in Computer Science and Business Administration. Mildred wanted to prove to the world that a female could succeed in business and technology. She did very well in the business world and received a special achievement award from a Fortune 500 company with stock options. She had everything the secular could dream of; the sports car, brand named clothes, the affluent social life, a great career and lucrative salary. but her spiritual life languished only attending Mass out of duty. Mildred was faced with challenging decisions to live her life for Christ or in the secular world. She lived in deep darkness.
Mildred’s life changed when she went on a street ministry retreat. She began to desire a deeper walk with Christ, and she also attended a Life in the Spirit Seminar. She wanted to do full-time ministry work. She went to China to check out volunteer opportunities in an orphanage and she returned to Vancouver to quit her job and began her work in street ministry eventually opening Mary’s Street Ministry catering to the emotional, homeless, drug addicted and prayerful needs of women. She has seen many miracles of the Holy Spirit moving powerfully in the lives of the street people. Mildred discovered that only when we are living and giving to others are we truly alive.
This testimony was given to the Vancouver Magnificat Chapter in October, 2022.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at: www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit :
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Episode 6 – Jesus Comes to Save UsThe name ‘Jesus’ means ‘God saves,’ and ‘Christ’ means the ‘Messiah’ or ‘Anointed Savior’ who fulfills all the prophecies of the Old Testament. In this episode, James explains how, in each Gospel, Jesus is introduced as the Divine Word became flesh to bring about a new creation so humans could become children of God, highlighting moments in Jesus’ life that demonstrate his mission and message from the Sermon on the Mount to Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection.
Jesus’ mission begins with a call to repentance — turning away from sin and embracing self-sacrificing love. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus, speaking with Divine authority, teaches how to think and value correctly and do the will of God. James takes us step-by-step through highlights in Jesus’ teachings.
Before Jesus begins his passion, he tells the apostles, “I give you a new commandment,” says the Lord. “Love one another as I have loved you. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35). With his death, Jesus also gives the gift of his mother (John 19:26-27), and his identity is revealed to the world, “When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!” (Matthew 27:54). Jesus’ love, passion, and resurrection conquer sin, allowing us the opportunity and a pathway to eternal life.
This is the 6th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org.
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Jesus Comes to Save Us appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Key To Repentance – 293As a Christian the cornerstone of our faith is the key to repentance. It is an important ingredient to turning toward God and finding that our faith deepens. The key to faith is the topic of today’s episode.
Thanks to our Sponsor: Harper Collins Christian: Kingdom Girls Bible
Girls will discover the power of faith in this beautiful Bible that features women of the Bible! Here is the ideal Bible for girls on their journey of faith! This special Bible is specifically crafted to highlight the stories and lessons of the inspiring, famous, and sometimes infamous women of the Bible. With over 400 engaging features, colorful illustrations, and helpful notes, this Bible is perfect for girls ages 8 to 12 as they learn about the strong and faithful women who came before them. From Eve to Ruth, Esther to Mary, this Bible brings the stories of these women to life and shows how their faith and strength can still inspire girls today. Featuring a beautiful design and easy-to-read text, this Bible is a great resource for girls as they grow in their own faith and learn about the women who have impacted the world.
Key To Repentance:The key to repentance begins with a realization that you have sinned. Just like an person who suffers from drugs, alcoholism or some other form of substance abuse in order to get better you first have to recognize you have a problem! This problem is then addressed and the first order of business is to repent.
We can break it down to repentance to anything contrary to Biblical teachings that crop into our thoughts, our words and manifested in our deeds. This happens over the course of time, making one bad decision after another, and another. These decisions often lead us down the road to difficulties for us and for our families. This is why it is important to surround ourselves with people who are uplifting and likeminded in our Christian walk.
But the good news is that repentance is a first step in following God. In accepting the Lord, at some point in you life you made a decision. The decision was not only to recognize sin and renounce it – but to promise to “sin no more.” Repentance is taught throughout scripture. The first teaching our Lord gave is in Matthew 4:17 – From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
He was announcing that He was ready to begin his public ministry, and now he asks others to join him.
The Lord asked us to repent and then went on to find “fishers of men,” the apostles. He saw Simon and Peter and his brother Andrew. He asked them in Matthew 4:19 “Come follow me…” Then he found two more Simon Called Peter and his brother Andrew. He called them as well.
He invited them to join His mission of conversion of the world to Christianity. Of course it wasn’t called Christianity at that time, but we have come to recognize Christ as the Messiah, the second person of the Trinity. God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit in that order. When we repent the Lord opens our lives to an entirely new way of thinking.
This invitation is for us as well, are we ready to drop our nets and follow him? The nets in our life can be the very things that keep us bound to worldly pursuits and away from a deeper relationship with the Almighty. I’m not talking about caring for our family, or working, I’m talking about those things that keep us bound. The pull of the internet or social media. One friend shared that she checked Facebook every few minutes because she had the fear of missing out of not knowing what was going on with her friends. She finally realized that it was pulling her away from what she needed to do each day, and made sure to set a time limit for visiting the website, and then eventually rarely if ever visited.
This may seem extreme but each one of us has to analyze what the pull is on our life. Are we drawn to something of value or to a waste of time? I know that when I visit social media for work I get drawn in on what my friends and family are doing and I can waste so much time. So, I rarely use social media. Again, each of us has to decide for themselves. Is social media a sin — of course not, but if it is uses for sinful actions we need to be aware and take heed. Repent and move on!
God is in the today – He is here to give us the graces we need each and every day. Repentance is like taking a shower and washing off all the grime, it is like putting on a white robe of righteousness and vowing to take a step in the right direction. One. Step. At. A. Time. Is it easy, no. It can only be done by God’s grace, so pray and ask Him for it!
Praying For God’s Grace – Key to Repentance:1. Ask the Lord to call to mind areas of sin in need of repentance. 2. If you can, go to confession (Catholics). This is a sacrament of grace. 3. Ask the Lord for forgiveness. 4. Ask the person you have harmed (if any) for forgiveness. 5. Ask God for the grace to sin no more!
Repentance allows us to heal, not only from our human and bodily illness but from spiritual illness. In Matthew 23, after asking us to repent, and asking the apostles (and us by extension) he began to teach and heal. Matthew 4:23-25 (Read on air.)
What great news! Amen and Alleluia. What comes with repentance? Healing.
God gives us the grace, especially with prayer and fasting to live a life that contains self-control and is godly. We begin good habits, avoid the near occasion of sin, whether it is social media, television or other sources. Whatever it is, ask God for the grace to have the control to avoid it! There is power in God’s grace. The first step is to want it and to receive it.
When we repentant there is a painful element of purification. This can be as I just shared by asking those we hurt to forgive us, but there is more. We must understand the reason we sinned in the first place. Getting to the root cause helps us to avoid getting into this sin, again. Maybe you think you can’t do it — you can’t change. But, if we find that difficult to repent we must remember the sacrifice of Christ.
Christ died and suffered for a sin that He did not commit. Yet, He did it for us. John the Baptist was put into prison through no fault of his own.
In Mark 1:15-15 (Read on air.)
Jesus said that the time had come and His Kingdom has come. And once again we read “Repent and believe the good news!”
Repentance is a gift that God gives us to change our ways. It is a mission for us, and we can be transformed. Through the life, death and Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ he calls us with His love and mercy. I pray you search out the way the truth and the life John 14:6 – Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Amen and Amen, let’s seek goodness and truth each day, beginning now.
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Vashti Dethroned
Queen Esther ~Refusal of Bad AdviceWhat can you learn from Queen Esther? Do you need more wisdom and less bad advice in your life? Today, we will encounter the outrageous King Ahasuerus, who regrets the outcome of his bad decision based on bad advice! Join us as we discuss the true wisdom from God that does not disappoint.
The Party (Esther 1: 1-8)Welcome to Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals & JOY Episode #2 based on my book Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY. The Book of Esther in the Old Testament was written so that even 2500 years later, we can still relate it to our culture. We can learn so much from Queen Esther.
Today, we continue in Esther Chapter 1 with our introduction to the pompous and extravagant King Ahasuerus and the opulent six-month party he threw in the capital city of Susa (modern-day Iran) in the third year of his reign. Ancient historians suggest over 15,000 men came to the party, which lasted 187 days. Amid the grand party, the king received and followed bad advice. In the podcast today, we will cover these points.
Vashti’s Refusal (Esther 1: 9-12)* Queen Vashti was throwing a grand party herself for the wives of governors, nobles, and officials who came to the king’s celebration when the king called her to appear before an unruly, intoxicated horde of men to show off her beauty. * She refused to come for reasons we might guess. * When she refused, she did not expect the king’s boiling rage!
The Bad Advice to the King (Esther 1: 13-21)* King Ahasuerus’ wise men, led by their spokesman Memucan, advised the king to dethrone and remove Vashti forever. Guided by his wounded pride, with no respect for his wife, the king followed this bad advice and dethroned Vashti. * The Scriptures teach women to honor and respect their husbands and men to love their wives (Ephesians 5: 25, 3). But the king was a pagan consumed with pride and self-indulgence who did not know God’s commands or God’s ways. * Greek Historian Herodotus records that King Ahasuerus won a great battle after this feast but later suffered a terrible loss to the Greeks during the four years that occurred between Esther Chapters One and Two. * The King returned home from battle and likely consumed himself with even more indulgence and sensuality, only to find he missed a lasting relationship with his lovely wife.
Personal ReflectionWhere do you need wisdom today? Our historical story teaches us
- Be cautious when taking counsel from worldly advisors who stroke your ego or are motivated by a desire for power.
- Be courageous and maintain your integrity in difficult situations.
- Anger and violence do not demonstrate strength in a husband or a leader.
Application1. Read Proverbs 3: 5-7, James 1: 5, and Proverbs 3:17. 2. These verses instruct us to ask God for wisdom, who promises to give it generously and ungrudgingly. 3. So, ask God to lead YOU and clear the road for YOU to follow.
Links Consider hosting a weekly one-hour C*up of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one: Esther for this Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study. For questions, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com * You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY
The post Esther for This Time # 2 – The Queen, the Refusal & the Bad Advice appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Lent – it’s not only about you“Where is your brother?” is the second question Pope Francis asks in his Lenten message for 2024.
The first is, “where are you?” which I talked about in the previous episode, Where are You?
In the book of Exodus, God reaches out to the Israelites. They are so downtrodden that they are unable to even call out to God for help. But God cares for them. And cares for each of us.
3 Pillars of LentPrayer, fasting, and almsgiving are not meant to be three separate acts. One leads to the other, pulling together the three leads us to learn how to detach from created things of this world that separate us from God.
The three together, as Pope Francis says, create an openness and self-emptying that rids us of attachments.
Then, we are able to better care for those around us.
Our attitude has an effect on others.
Connect with me here!
The post Openness & Self-emptying appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Come Follow MeFr. Tom Sparacino reads from the Gospel of Matthew 11:28 ‘Come to me all you who labor and are burdened. And I will give you rest, take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy and my burden light.’
The Lord calls us. He has called us from the moment of our baptism. He’s called us into these new waters to come to come and be with us. Come and be filled. Come and be strengthened. Come and have hope and how powerful a thought, all we need to simply do is to go, he says. Come and we go. The question is, do we go? Do we realize that our lives are not an option? That it’s a demand really of the Lord when he says, “Come, follow me.” It is a matter of life and death, heaven and hell, salvation, and damnation. When we feel that we are burdened, we need to come after him and he will make us disciples. He will strengthen us to live in his presence. We must try to form a habit, of always walking in his presence. We must live, eat, eat, literally Jesus. Love him with all your being. Then, and only then, will you be able to come and follow him.
Fr. Tom has been a priest of Jesus Christ for the Diocese of Pittsburgh since 1998. He has served as high school chaplain, and co-vocation director and is currently the Rector of St. Paul Seminary and the Director of Pre-ordination Formation. Fr. Tom has been the spiritual advisor to the Magnificat Pittsburgh Chapter since 2010. The Holy Spirit has poured His joy into Fr. Tom, and he gladly pours it out on all of us. His infectious laughter and lightheartedness and like a bright light in a dark world. We know you will be inspired as you listen to this joyful servant of the Lord.
Fr. Tom Sparacino’s teaching was given to the Pittsburgh Magnificat Chapter in August 2021.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Come Follow Me appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Embracing God’s BoundariesIn our connection to God and fully seeking to respond to his love for us, we now come to the concept of embracing the boundaries he sets for us. We’ve discussed morality as God’s protection over us since he is our all-loving creator. The Ten Commandments are the starting point of these boundaries. They lay out for us, in the most foundational way, how to live under the umbrella of God’s protection. He’s not lying in wait for us to break his law so he can zap us. Rather, as the good shepherd, he provides safe pasture, knowing what we need and what truly nourishes us.
And so, we move from the Ten Commandments to the Beatitudes. It would have been too much for these teachings to have come in any other way than by the mouth of Jesus, who made them incarnate for us. He has called us to follow in his footsteps, not just to obey the rules but also to be one with him. He whom we are called to espouse forever in Heaven is our crucified love. In the Gospel of John, Jesus told us:
If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own, but because you do not belong to the world, and I have chosen you out of the world, the world hates you. Remember the word I spoke to you, ‘No slave is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15: 18 – 20).
Obedience to the law will be empty and confounding, but taking up our crosses and following him will lead to the deepest intimacy. Rules for the sake of rules lead to turning inward. Receiving the boundaries, he sets for us as coming from the heart of our all-loving Father rather than from a place of control leads to boundless life and gratitude.
As a therapist, I have seen others longing or even adamantly determined to obtain an end they cannot see, which would be disastrous. It’s been humbling because I know the Lord has seen me do the same. At times, he’s said no to my petitions, and I’ve taken it as rejection, proof of a lack of love, when in truth, it is quite the opposite. Not only that, but he’d rather risk being misunderstood by me than give me anything other than what is the absolute best for me.
Our Lady of Lourdes told Saint Bernadette Soubirous, “I do not promise you happiness in this world but in the next.”1 We know the Lord has our eternal good in mind for us. Whatever limits he sets or requires of us in this life, or whatever he might ask us to endure is to our ultimate and perpetual good. In her book, Crucified Love, Ilia Delio writes of God’s goodness, “This nature of the good underscores a Trinity of eternal love whose immensity of divine goodness is such that no greater good can be thought.”2 Put simply, if we think something is desirable or a good idea, it is only a shadow of the goodness of God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever taken care of children or a pet and experienced the child or animal seemingly regarding your protection as meanness? Describe the experience from your perspective as the caregiver and consider God acting in this way toward you.
- What might be preventing you from seeing that God’s limits for you are in fact his protection?
- Do you tend to see God’s law as what he wants from you or what he has for you?
- If you look at God’s law as what he wants for you, why do you think that is?
Prayer
“Most high, glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart and give me, Lord, a correct faith, a certain hope, a perfect charity, sense and knowledge, so that I may carry out your holy and true command.”3 – St. Francis of Assisi
Action Step
Consider your life. In what area do you tend to feel God is asking the most from you? Ask him to show you what he has for you in that same area.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Spend some time considering the paradox of a personal cross as a mysterious gift and note what comes to you here.
Scriptures for Meditation
Proverbs 3:5-6
Psalm 16:11
Psalm 119:105
Luke 9:23
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Hebrews 10:36
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
The post Embracing God’s Boundaries appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Episode 5 – God Establishes His KingdomOn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses God’s founding of the Kingdom from the days of King Saul and King David to the destruction of the Temple in 586 to the Babylonian captivity. James also gives examples of God’s boundless love, mercy, and forgiveness. James explains the many natural gifts bestowed on King Saul to make him a great ruler. However, Saul’s poor moral choices undermine his rule and faithfulness to God. King David, from the tribe of Judah, is chosen as Saul’s successor.
Capturing Jerusalem after a hard-won battle, King David made the city the capital of his Kingdom. He desires to build a temple for the Ark of the Covenant, temporarily housed in a portable tabernacle. However, through the prophet Nathan (1 Kings 8:17-18), God tells David, “In wishing to build a house for my name, you did well. But it is not you who will build the house, but your son, who comes from your loins; he shall build the house for my name.”
David, through adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent placement of her husband, Uriah, to be slain in battle, eventually repents and is forgiven. However, he pays a hefty price— for the rest of his life, conflict, and war plagued his family and Kingdom.
David’s son Solomon, who also begins his reign faithful to the Lord, Under Solomon’s reign Israel reached her greatest point as a nation—honor, wealth, power, and respect, but at the end of Solomon’s reign, Israel became temporally and spiritually bankrupt.
God had a special love for David: “I will be to him as a father, and he will be to me as a son.” (2 Samuel 7:13–16). James delves into how this relationship lays the foundation for the future coming of Christ.
This is the 5th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post God Establishes His Kingdom appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Your Heart ~ Your Faith ~ Episode 291There is a saying, “Your heart is where your home is,” but I believe your heart is where your faith resides. In this podcast, we discuss how “heart issues” may lead us astray and far away from our faith in what is right and holy in the eyes of God.
Thanks to our sponsor, Sevenfold Films and Genesis Apologetics Presents Film – The Ark and The Darkness – Movie Trailer here: NoahsFlood
In theaters March 20-21! Noah’s Flood is preserved in ancient writings from every major culture around the world. Recent discoveries confirm what the Bible has said all along. Sevenfold Films and Genesis Apologetics present: The Ark and the Darkness. If you missed the in-theatre date, check the website for streaming options.
An extended family member recently shared that after several traumatic experiences, she realized that all that mattered was God, faith, and family. It is somewhat of a hard lesson that we all learn and relearn from time to time. As our lives get busier, and we move to that speed of life that seems to break the sound barrier at times, we find that slowing down helps us finally see the light.
When we have a broken heart, we tend to fold into ourselves; it is hard to be objective or have clarity in the midst of a trial. Our hearts are a powerhouse; they keep us alive and functioning, and in this same way, our internal organ that God created to sustain life is often where we feel that hurt and joy. We are lost we don’t know where to go.
God asks us to follow him, and we read this in John 1:43-51 where Jesus called Philip and Nathanel to follow him. But that call is for each one of us. Do we say, “Yes, Lord.” Or, is our answer, “In a minute, let me finish this first.”
This is a question we all answer in our lives, and when trauma hits, depending on our heart and its inclination, depending on our faith, that is how we will cope with the situation. Our hearts will betray us if we are not grounded in the truth if we go on feelings alone, and if we are swayed by the enticements of this world. The pull of the world is strong, and the evil one works overtime on the young and the old alike to sway us from our path and our mission.
Your Faith – Questions to Ask:1. Where are we going? 2. How are we dealing with the daily struggles in our lives? 3. How is our mental health? We wake up each day often without direction. 4. What are the first thoughts that come to mind when you wake up each day? 5. Where does your heart lean?
Are we like Thomas, the apostle who said to Jesus, “Lord, we don’t know where we are going, so how can we know the way?”
Friends, we are lost. Our hearts are broken, and there seems to be no way out from our thoughts and sometimes feelings of hopelessness. But there is good news, and there is hope. Without hope, we would be lost, but God gives us a clear path and a clear direction and that is to follow him. If you don’t have this scripture memorized, do it this week, and when you feel lost and forgotten, pray this verse out loud! John 14:5-7 we read (Read on air).
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know[a] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
Do you hear that? We don’t have to feel lost — Jesus is …the way the truth and the life.
If we want to know Jesus, we can, and we can go to Him. He will then introduce us to the Father, for, “if you know me,” he says, ” you will know my Father as well. ”
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. We should say this again. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.
Never lose hope! 2 Corinthians 4:1-3
Therefore, since through God’s mercy, we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2 Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 3 And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.
Following Jesus is opening our hearts to the love and mercy that He gives us, and where the heart is, so is our faith. We have faith that God will not let us down and that he will answer prayer, not as we want it but in His time and the way he ordains. We know that we can have a clear conscience and sleep well at night if our hearts are united to His.
But it is more than that! God is calling you and I to dig deeper. How can we do this? By realizing that we are more than what we do, or try to do in this case for the sake of righteousness. The Pharisees complained that Jesus and his apostles were not following the Jewish ritual of cleanliness — which was for a time at the temple. But these men decided they should carry on the letter of the law, by the ritualistic wasing even before meals. But Jesus took them to task explaining that it is rooted in the heart that evil results.
Mark 7:14-23 — (Read on air)
And he called the people to him again, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him, but the things which come out of a man are what defile him.”[a] 17 And when he had entered the house, and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a man from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters, not his heart but his stomach, and so passes on?”[b] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a man is what defiles a man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, fornication, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a man.”
Friends we want our hearts to be full of love, full of compassion, we must fight against the vices that plague our world. How many of us listen to that verse or read it and say — well, I’m not that bad. Maybe not with theft, murder or adultery — but what about envy, slander, pride and foolishness? I know I’ve suffered and confessed those things.
When we look at what the Lord offers, life with him or without him we will always choose Him!
Friends, what else could we want? This week examine your heart take inventory of your priorities and rearrange them to allow the Lord to come and grow you and bless you, today and always.
The post Your Heart ~ Your Faith appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Prayer, Reversals, and JOYHave you studied the book of Esther? Do You Need Reversals in Your Life? Are you struggling to find faith and courage? Esther will show you how. Join our newest series based on the Book of Esther. It’s a wonderful study for Lent. It is about trusting in God, intercessory prayer, and receiving strength to stand firm amid life’s challenges. It is about gentle leadership, discernment, and how God can give you reversals and joy in situations and relationships. Esther is a book of faith, hope, and joy!
[Don’t forget the Joy podcast series here.]
This is the TimeWelcome to Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals & JOY Episode #1, based on my book Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. When we wonder, “Where is God in our lives or our families or communities,” Esther reminds us that God never abandons us. He is faithful. Now is a good time to start if you have never read or studied Esther. You cannot depend on movies depicting Esther because some are more fictional than historically accurate. You will gain so much more by reading it yourself, as the lessons from Esther are so encouraging. And, of course, there is a JOYFUL ending. Today, we will cover these points:
The Backdrop for Esther (Esther 1: 1-3) The days of Ahasuerus (Esther 1:1) refer to the reign of King Ahasuerus, who historically ruled the world as King of the Persian Empire from 486 to 465 BC.* In Greek, his name was Xerxes. * The Persians, led by Cyrus the Great, the grandfather of Ahasuerus, had defeated the Babylonian Empire of King Nebuchadnezzar, who had taken the Jewish people captive to Babylon beginning in 605 BC. Cyrus the Great had a relaxed attitude toward the Jewish people and allowed them to return to Jerusalem or move to other places. Some went back to Jerusalem. Some scattered throughout Europe. Some stayed in Persia and learned to fit into its culture. This is where we meet Esther.
The Lavish Party (Esther 1: 4-8)* King Ahasuerus resided in Susa, one of the three royal cities in the Persian Empire. * He threw the lavish party, mostly to inspire patriotism and show off his wealth and splendor to his military leaders so they would support him for going to war against Greece, as history tells us. * An old tradition stated that the rest of the party could drink only as the king drank, but at his party, all were instructed to drink freely. The golden goblets used for serving the wine may very well have been the sacred goblets seized from the Jewish temple in Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar in 605 BC (see Daniel 1). Now, they were being used in a very unholy way by a very pagan king!
Personal Reflection.* King Ahasuerus was trying to make himself a god in power, prestige, and more. * He did not know or refused to acknowledge the truth that God loves us dearly but as Proverbs 15:3 points out: “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good,” or Hebrews 4:13, saying: “And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” * Consider these questions for reflection today: + Do you wonder where God is when you see the world focused on self-image, power, and prestige? + Do you get discouraged when it appears God is silent about all the evil taking place in the world? + When God seems silent, do you turn your attention to the party—that is, to the worldly distractions that draw you away from God, faith, and family?
Prayer Response1. Read and pray with Psalm 103: 15-22. Try to memorize the verse that speaks most to you. 2. Seek God. When you think he is silent as the world parties on, open yourself more to God. Remember that only God, our heavenly Father, Jesus, our Savior, and the Holy Spirit can offer you the true Joy, Peace, Love, and Fulfillment that the world is seeking, as epitomized by King Ahasuerus. 3. Ask for your needs. When you are lonely, confused, or frustrated, talk to Jesus from your heart. Ask Him for what you need. Remember Jesus’ words in John 15: 11: As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. (You may want to listen to my podcast season #1 series, Finding JOY.)
Links
- Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one: Esther for this Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study. For questions, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com
- You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com.
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Click here to find the book Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY
The post Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals & JOY – The Backdrop & the Party appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Scripture
Even now, says the LORD,
return to me with your whole heart,
with fasting, and weeping, and mourning;
Rend your hearts, not your garments,
and return to the LORD, your God.
For gracious and merciful is he,
slow to anger, rich in kindness,
and relenting in punishment. Joel 2: 12-13
AshesOn Ash Wednesday, as ashes are placed on our foreheads, we hear one of two possible phrases:
“Repent and believe in the Gospel,” or “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return. ”
Lenten MessageHere is Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2024
He reminds us during Lent, we go through the desert and God leads us to freedom. However, we need to desire to “open our eyes to reality” to answer the question, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9).
When we know where we are in relation to God, then we will know our sins and what our focus is on during the time in the desert.
The post Where are You as Lent Begins? appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Evelyn GarciaEvelyn Garcia is a message of hope to all who know her. She is a fourth-generation native of Orange County, CA. Evelyn is a cradle Catholic and has a large extended family. She got married at the age of 19, and she knew it was a poor decision, so the marriage ended soon after. She was able to get an annulment. The experience challenged and riveted her faith, and she has been a daily communicant ever since. She has had a diverse career, first as a middle school teacher in public schools, and presently, she is the travel coordinator for Dynamic Catholic, which evolved from a long-time friendship with Matthew Kelly. She runs the west coast office at Christ Cathedral in Orange County, CA. Evelyn shares many unbelievable stories of how God showed up and how miracles happened as she traveled on pilgrimages around the globe. Evelyn has deep trust in the Lord and Blessed Mother and is not afraid to ask for what may seem impossible because she knows that all things are possible with God. She can’t wait to meet the Holy Family in heaven.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend, and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Evelyn Garcia appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Valuing GodIn taking up this section on valuing God, something a friend of mine once said to me comes to mind, “God can’t be a priority.” Her point was that he is all; he is the only priority. Consider the passion of our Lord: if Jesus’ commitment to us wasn’t absolute, things could have turned out radically different. He could have abandoned the cross at any point. However, because he is consumed with love for us, there was nothing to evaluate or reconsider. He didn’t need to do a cost/benefit analysis as to whether we would respond well to the love he would show to us and the graces he would merit for us.
Do we value the Lord the same way? If we don’t start from a firm understanding that he knows us and has the big picture of this life, and the next, perfectly in view, then we are likely to have a honey-do list for the Lord. If we don’t realize the depth of his consuming passion for us personally, then we’re likely to default into relating to him out of servile fear. Without realizing that the limits he sets for us are a manifestation of his protection for us, we’ll treat him like a vending machine, dispensing the grace we need to accomplish our plans, since we presume we have to look out for ourselves. We’ll be insulted, angry, and feel rejected and abandoned when his way is not our way.
When we relate to the Lord by valuing him for who he is, not what he does or what he can do for us, we’re able to remain consistent. Though we may struggle with painful emotions at times, our regard doesn’t ebb and flow based on how we evaluate his performance. It’s a stance of submission to his wisdom, but primarily an acceptance of his infinite passion.
Let’s not cheat ourselves out of the greatest romance the world has ever known and the greatest lover for whom we could ever long by focusing on the ‘how’. When we keep our focus on the ‘why’ of letting the all-loving God love us and loving him in return, the details don’t take care of themselves, they are taken care of by him according to his infinite wisdom and in a way that will, one day, blow our minds.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Do you tend to relate to God with a focus on what you want him to do? What is it you find yourself wanting from him?
- Do you consider he has more for you than your limited understanding can figure out or ask? Why or why not?
- Do you find it difficult to trust his love for you? Why or why not?
Prayer
Most high and glorious God, lover of our soul, we thank you for who you are and that you are trustworthy. Please help us to receive your love so completely, that we may lose ourselves and thereby find ourselves in your heart. We ask all this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Action Step
Consider making the intentions of Jesus’ Sacred Heart your only intention for this week and consider what his intentions might be.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Ask the Lord to show you if there are any areas of your life where you don’t believe his design and power are capable of accomplishing anything greater than your own hopes. Ask him to show you why this is difficult for you to trust him with and what he wants you to know about it.
Scriptures for Meditation
1 Chronicles 16:34
Psalm 63:1
Psalm 71:8
Psalm 1:6
Habakkuk 3:17-18
John 4:24
The post Valuing God appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Episode 4 – The 10 Commandments
On this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses the 10 Commandments and how God gave us the 10 Commandments on Mount Sinai as the divine remedy to the slave of sin. Individuals who look upon the commandments as restrictions to their freedom have bought into the devil’s lie, like Adam and Eve. James explains that the commandments are a gift from God that teaches humanity the fundamental steps to grow in love and holiness. Observing the commandments and leading us closer to God promises a happier life. This fact is clearly stated in Deuteronomy (30:9): “…and the Lord your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all your undertakings, in the fruit of your body, in the fruit of your livestock, and in the fruit of your soil. For the Lord will again take delight in prospering you, just as he delighted in prospering your ancestors, when you obey the Lord your God by observing his commandments and decrees that are written in this book of the law because you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.”
In an age when humankind has drifted toward self-love, doing what feels right, and justifying living by their own rules, obedience to a higher authority is often frowned upon. James walks listeners through each commandment and explains how God’s laws translate in today’s society. The first three commandments focus on loving God, with commandments four through ten concentrating on loving others and helping one another get to heaven.
This is the 4th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post The 10 Commandments appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
God Chose You ~ Episode 290You are not a mistake; God chose you! Many people walk around today depressed or sad. But today is a day to rejoice and to realize that you have a greater purpose in this life. Tune in to today’s episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast and get ready to have a life-changing experience.
Thanks to our sponsor, Genesis Apologetics – The Ark and the Darkness. Learn more here: NoahsFlood
From the movie: There is a tale over 4,000 years old, preserved in ancient writings from every major culture around the world. Many thought it was only a myth, but evidence supports what the Bible has said all along. Sevenfold Films and Genesis Apologetics present: The Ark and the Darkness. It will be in theaters March 20-21 and streaming afterward.
I belong to a women’s ministry named Magnificat, and we have meals about four times a year at these meals. Each person gives their testimony, and it truly is life-changing, especially when you hear where the person had been in their life and how the love of God and his kindness and mercy change them at each meal; I encourage the women to open their hearts and to be ready to be changed. This change may happen quickly, or it may happen over time.
God Chose You ~ Today!
I am going to say the same thing to you today: be ready to be changed. Why do I say this? Well, the reason is many of us walk around each day wondering if we have a purpose or listening to the evil one when he says you are worthless. That is not true! You just need a reminder.
We forget that we have been chosen by God; today, I’m going to share with you a list of some of my favorite scriptures. I’d like you to write down these as well as some of your own search the Bible, and you will find that you truly are chosen by God. He did not make a mistake when he created you. He knew you before you were born. Jeremiah 1:4-5
4 The word of the Lord came to me, saying, Before I formed you in the womb I knew[a] you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
God Chose You and Sent His SonWhen we look outside at the world, we feel insignificant. Instead, look within, look in your heart, and toward the Lord. We often fall short or lose sight of who we are: heirs to the kingdom, and through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, eternal life is available to us, not just to you or me, but to each one of us who chooses the Lord.
How can we forget that we are chosen? We must remember this and make a point of waking up each day and saying, ” Thank you, Lord, for choosing me. Thank you, Lord, for giving me the opportunity to serve you today. “
Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing Kirt Cameron, who is known for his role in television and movies. He is less known for the fact that he didn’t grow up in a Christian home. In fact, he was far from God while he was in his younger years; he said people often asked him. How did you find God and Hollywood? and he said, I didn’t find God; God found me.
This is Biblical – John 15:16 says, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
God is looking for each one of us. God has chosen you. He knows our name, he knows your name, He knows everything about you! Listen as I read some of these scriptures, take them into your heart, and know you are special. You are worthy; you are a son or daughter of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. I Peter 2:9 states (read on air).
God knows everything about you! You are worth so much more than the creatures of this world.
Luke 12:7 “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Matthew 10: 26-31 (read on air).
So we praise God daily in Ephesians 1:3-4 we read: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.
He chose us before the creation! Do you hear that? How amazing, how wonderful, and how utterly exciting. Not only that, but we belong to Almighty God! Isaiah 43:1 states (Read on air)
And what do we do with this information? First, we ask ourselves, “What does God want of me?”
John 6:44 says to believe: (read on air).
We are to persevere in all things. Romans 8:28 —And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.
And so I leave you with this thought. If God has called you by name, and you are an heir to the Kingdom of God, and he knew you before you were created, and you belong to him, then you are most definitely chosen by God, and you definitely should rejoice! Let’s spend this week praising and thanking God for finding us and calling us to Him. Amen.
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What does the Catechism say about prayer?Take a look at Part Four, Christian Prayer. In this episode, I refer to #s 2558-2565
“For me, prayer is a surge of the heart;
it is a simple look turned toward heaven,
it is a cry of recognition and of love,
embracing both trial and joy.” St. Therese of Lisieux“Prayer is the raising of one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God.” St. John Damascene
2024 is a Year of PrayerSome important points from the press conference:
- We are asked to intensify prayer, renew and rebuild our spiritual practices
- prayer is nourishment for the Christian life of faith, hope, and charity
- the Church and people of God are to become a concrete sign of hope
- let’s get back to basics
Look at your week and focus on a different type of prayer each day:
Sunday: Mass; Monday: silence; Tuesday: petition Wednesday: rosary; Thursday: thanksgiving; Friday: scripture; Saturday: Confession and contrition
Sign up for my newsletter to learn more about prayer!
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Testimony of Denise BeyerIn 1994, during a time of questioning whether to remain in the Catholic Church, the Lord heard Denise’s cry for truth, she experienced a dramatic encounter of God’s love during Mass that forever changed her life.
Denise’s understanding of the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist awakened her spirit as she read the scripture in John Ch. 6.She attended a Life in the Spirit Seminar and learned about the charismatic gifts of the Holy Spirit and was baptized in the Holy Spirit. Her prayer life deepened after she received the gift of tongues. She went back to Confession after many years of not receiving the sacrament.
Denise began praying the Rosary and attended daily Mass. She prayed that her family would also return to Mass and the sacraments. Denise has been married to Roy for 48 years. They have 4 grown children and 11 grandchildren.
Denise currently serves as a member of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans (CCRNO) Core Team for Women’s Retreats and Days of Refreshment as well as on the Steering Committee for the Southern Regional Conference. She has co-hosted Catholic Community Radio’s “Wake Up” show with Jeff Blackwell and Gaby Smith.
Denise has spoken at Days of Renewal, Retreats, Conferences and Magnificat Breakfasts, and Life in the Spirit Seminars throughout southern Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. It is her hope and desire to make the living Presence of Jesus and the fullness of life in the Holy Spirit known to all by proclaiming the Word of God and the richness of our Catholic Faith.
“We have peace with God, through Jesus Christ…because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Rom. 5:1,5
This testimony was given in August of 2018 to the Baton Rouge Magnificat Chapter.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Knowing GodKnowing God is crucial. We’ve already been discussing connection to God and mostly it’s been about who he is and how he is toward us. We see he is personal, knows us perfectly, desires for us to experience profound intimacy with him, cherishes us beyond measure, and operates in our best interest, (which is far better than we could ever hope for or imagine). He protects us and provides for us always and perfectly in the ways necessary to draw us to him. When we stay within his loving boundaries, we remain in him and under the shelter of his wings. If we move out from under his protection by sin, he immediately takes us back, time and again, when we turn back to him in repentance.
We can miss all this. We can believe God wants something from us that we really can’t give him. We can live our lives with the burden of assuming he is harsh and demanding and his love must be earned. If we wear the lenses through which we perceive him as distant, we will interpret events as though he is cold and uncaring. There are all sorts of different versions of imperfect lenses, but only the ones of truth help us see him clearly and experience him accurately.
If someone close to us is misunderstood, we might be surprised or maybe even a little defensive of them. That’s because we know them, who they are and their heart, and we readily come to an accurate understanding of their behavior in a given circumstance. We have to begin with an understanding of God as all good and all loving when we consider the circumstances and events of our lives, or we’ll misunderstand who he is. If we don’t start there, we will never be able to understand what he does or allows to happen. We can’t interpret him through the lens of our limited understanding of circumstances, but rather we need to remain trusting of who he has revealed himself to be when times are difficult.
Inevitably, life has times of trial and challenge. Sadly, we can be so fearful of displeasing God we can sometimes rush to a conclusion without starting from a right understanding of who he is. We can feel so lonely, isolated, and forgotten. We might put inordinate pressure on ourselves to earn his love, when the truth is he is madly in love with us. Our lenses, like the lenses of a pair of binoculars, can be adjusted. As we grow closer to him, the focus continues to become clearer. He is infinitely loving and good, so there is always room for greater clarity in our vision of him. This clarity is gained as it is in all relationships, by spending time together in open communication. It is not enough to know about him. We must seek to know him and to open up to him in return. This relationship requires us to reciprocate.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- When you find yourself struggling in life, through what lenses are you usually viewing God? (e.g., aloof, demanding, etc.)
- Why might you see him that way?
- What aspect of God’s goodness is the most difficult for you to internalize? Why?
Prayer
Watch Cory Asbury’s video for his song “Reckless Love”1 at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc6SSHuZvQE.
Action Step
Write yourself a note or letter about who God truly is that you can read when you are in difficult times.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Take some time to reflect on your note or letter from the Action Step and ask the Lord to reveal to you what he particularly wants you to take to heart.
Scriptures for Meditation
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 119:10
Jeremiah 9:23-24
John 17:3
2 Peter 3:18
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Episode 3 – God Expands His CovenantOn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses how God expands His Covenant to prepare for advent—the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas and also of preparation for the Second Coming of Christ.
After the fall of Adam and Eve and within ten generations, the human race had become so wicked that God determined to create a flood to destroy most of humanity. Only the righteous Noah, Noah’s family, sons, and daughters-in-law, survived the flood. The Lord renews a covenant with Noah and his descendants. The flood was a prefiguration of the sacrament of baptism. Baptism now saves humankind as an “appeal to God for a clear conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 3:21).
Sin, however, rears again when Noah’s son Ham has an incestuous relationship with his mother (Leviticus 20:11) and the son of their illicit union, Canaan. Subsequently, some of the worst enemies of the Jewish people descend from the Canaanites. Ham’s sin shows how sin reverberates.
James takes us through the generations of our Lord’s genealogy up to the birth of Christ, explaining how some honored their covenant with God while others strayed following their will, not the Lord’s, and the subsequent blessings and chastisements transpired. It was through the birth of Christ that humankind was promised new life, new hope, and a chance at redemption.
This is the third episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post God Expands His Covenant appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Life is tough. It throws us curves when we least expect it. We often endure a trial by fire. Yet, as Christians, we have the tools to make it through challenging times and emerge victorious in the end. In this podcast, Felice shares insights and tips for those who struggle with hardships and, at times, with faith.
Trial By Fire ~ Episode 289When was the last time you said everything was going great? I have no issues, no problems. Life is good. Sure, that happens from time to time. But we all have hardships; sometimes, it is a trial by fire. When there is a crisis in our lives, our faith is challenged. For some, this means they have a faith crisis. For others, they believe that God has abandoned them, and so they abandon their faith. Some stop believing, going to church, or reading the Bible. Still, others think they have done something wrong and deserve the punishment. This is not the way to think. We must first take our thoughts captive. The evil one is a deceiver and a liar and wants us to continue to believe the lies that God does not care.
1 Corinthians 10:3-5 (Read on air).
We can not understand the mind of God.
Abandoning the one who created us is never good. A trial by fire is a test. We must remember that Almighty God is in charge of everything. Whether it is our lives or the lives of our loved ones, we know that God knows our hearts and struggles and hears our prayers.
We can, however, read the Word of God and be encouraged and edified.
In John 1:1-5 we read (on air).
Let those words sink into your heart, and I pray that verse gives you as much hope as it gives me.
- In the beginning, God existed.
- Through God, all things came into being. There was nothing without God.
- What came into being was life. There was nothing beforehand—just a void. Without God, life would not exist.
- The life was the light of all people
- God was there to shine a light at the very beginning.
- The light shines in the darkness…and what? The darkness has been unable to overcome it! Amen and halleluiah.
When we have questions such as, “Why me?” or “How could God allow this to happen.” or “I know God is in charge, but I am so confused.” We must acknowledge that we are hurting and give ourselves time to grieve, but we can not stay in this spot forever. One way to do this is by understanding that God is in control. Things happen for a reason, and ultimately, in the end, our goal is heaven.
God loves us so much He calls us to him. He sent Jonah to Niveh to bring back an evil town to him. The prophet was reluctant, tried to avoid the mandate by the Almighty, and had a rough go of it until he finally went to Nineveh and said the bare minimum. (Jonah was not a very good prophet!) He walked through the town saying, “Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed.” The city was so large it took three days to walk from one end to the other. Yet, Jonah had only walked one day when the leaders and the people believed Jonah the profit, put on sackcloth, prayed and fasted. God was moved and did not destroy the town.
God called the people of Nineveh to leave their sinful ways and follow him. God calls us to follow him when we are joyful, hurting, or in the pits of despair. God calls us even when we avoid him like Jonah did.
We must have joy. I looked up 1 John 1:1-5, and here it is: (Read on air).
Let’s break that scripture down.
- God always tells the truth, and the apostles and eyewitnesses testified to it.
- The Father has revealed the truth about eternal life
- Relationship (fellowship_ is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ
- They wrote this so that our JOY could be complete.
Struggling Trial By FireWhen we are struggling, we must realize the truth: the love of God, the hope He gives, and the joy and faith He gives us are all we need. This world is fleeting, and yet we hold on to it as if we can’t stand to think of anything else.
When we struggle, we can cry out to the Lord in prayer and allow our hurt and our needs to be heard. We can cry out to heaven, and we can ask our friends to pray. We can quote scripture; good ones are Col. 3:16, Matthew 4:4, and Ephesians 6:18.
We must fight off any temptation and against any lie that God does not care about us! Let’s all pray together! “In the Precious Name of Jesus, I pray against this lie; Jesus, I know you care about every one of us — each person listening today; please, my Lord, allow them to understand and be comforted by the grace of God.”
Friends, the Almighty pursues us and wants us to reside with him in heaven.
Remember that Jesus was tempted in the desert; the perfect one, the Holy One, was tried. Satan offered him the world; he showed him food. But what did Jesus say?
Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4).
What does living in the “word that proceeds from the mouth of God mean?”
It means that when you follow God when you believe that the Word of God is faithful when you know that God is only good and wants the best for YOU, it changes you. It gives you peace when you go through difficult times and are tried by fire. It makes your life new. You become a new creation! You become the unique, awesome, and glorious person God created you to be.
So, is that it? No. We continue to pray because we are constantly being tested and struggling. Ephesians 6:18 says, “Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.”
St. Paul tells us to pray in the Spirit to continue to preserve.
- We pray in the Spirit. Come Holy Spirit.
- We pray all the time.
- We pray with humility with our hearts.
- Prayer is a piece of the Armor of God — God’s armor keeps us protected.
But does God hear our prayers?
James 5:16: (Read on air.)
Remember, our goal is heaven and eternal life with God Almighty. But a fight is ongoing; the enemy wants us to reside in eternal damnation. Remember, the battle has been won; God is victorious. Continue to pray, continue to believe, and let’s pray for each other every day. Amen.
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InvitationYou are invited to start a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering (men and women). A CUP of JOY small group is an easy way to gently evangelize and encourage others. It fosters fun, faith, sharing, and Scripture in small groups. All materials are free and accompany each weekly 15-minute WRAP Yourself in JOY Podcast with Karen Dwyer.
As a host-facilitator, you would get together weekly with friends over a cup of coffee (or tea) for one hour of thanksgiving, prayer, and discussion. Your small group will grow together in faith, hope, love, and joy.
The new Spring podcast series is Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY, based on Karen’s book which has an imprimatur. The series will last eight weeks and is perfect for Lent. Go to Wrapyourselfinjoy.com to sign up.
Answers to common questions include:
Why coffee?Inviting others for coffee (or tea) will make your invitation seem friendly and casual. As a host- facilitator, you will find the handout for each meeting and the format easy to use for the one hour over coffee.
Why meet only for one hour?The weekly one-hour format encourages participants to know the meeting will be focused and not take up much of their precious time. Discussing the content covered in the questions and Scripture will help the Scriptures come alive.
Are other topics available?Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY starts the week of February 14. But if you choose, you could select the JOYFUL and Battle Ready podcast series with the accompanying Cup of JOY. This series focuses on defining true joy and putting on the armor of God from Ephesians. All series are eight weeks, plus a suggested wrap-up finale meeting. Go to Wrapyourselfinjoy.com to sign up.
What does the host-facilitator do?Hosting a Cup of Joy Women’s small group is a beautiful way to gently evangelize and involve others in prayer, Scripture reflection, and discussion. Your main job as a host/facilitator is to arrange a meeting place, invite guests, prepare coffee, and facilitate the meeting. Your small group can meet at home or church, and it can include 2 to 10 women or more. You will receive weekly a prepared PDF worksheet that will guide your group through discussion, prayer, and study. As the host, you will make a copy of the worksheet for each person. All will listen to the podcast to prepare for the weekly meeting.
How do I sign up?Go to Wrapyourselfinjoy.com to sign up as a small group host and for your small group members. Then, you receive an email with all the necessary information for your group.
The post A Cup of JOY for Lent – An Invitation appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Louise CarsonLouise Carson is a cradle Catholic born and raised in Rhode Island. She met her first husband after college and moved to his hometown of Rochester, NY. They had three children. She went through a period of questioning why she was going to Mass. Shortly after, she went on a retreat, and the experience transformed her life, and she received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. She knew from then on that God truly loved her and would never leave her. Her renewed faith got her through a rough family time. Their oldest daughter was a troubled teenager who was put in foster care and became pregnant and a young mother at the age of 14.
Louise worked part-time in the medical field while raising her three children. She was divorced when her children were grown and was able to get an annulment. Louise went through a long grieving process and joined a support group that helped heal her pain. That is where she also met her 2nd husband. She received a certification in Pastoral Ministry and worked in her own parish for six years. Then, another tragedy enveloped the family with the loss of her grandson, and she shared how God reminded her that he would never leave her. The scripture she holds close to her heart is Jerimiah 29:11. ‘For I know the plans I have for you, a time to prosper and not of woe.’
This testimony was given in March 2022 to the Albany Magnificat Chapter, NY.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
The post Testimony of Louise Carson appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Openness with GodThe human body is made up of about seventy percent water. Water is necessary for healthy energy levels and flushing toxins and plays a key role in the proper functioning of our whole system. We need it for refreshment on a hot day, for cleansing of dirt and sweat, and it is essential to our lives and the lives of the plants and animals we consume for nutrition. Water is crucial. When a water source is stagnant, we know to be suspicious of it because it can more likely be a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites.
Jesus doesn’t just tell us he will give us water or that he will give us flowing water. He says he will give us living water! This water is his very life! His only requirement is that we be open by acknowledging our need for him. To ask him is the only thing the woman at the well had to do (John 4:4-30), and all we have to do is ask him, too.
For some of us, it’s difficult to express our needs, even to Jesus, because we experienced pain when we were vulnerable in the past. If others have used our vulnerability against us, it can make us feel weak and unwilling to admit our need. Perhaps we’ve asked the Lord in, but we keep him sequestered to the foyer of our hearts and make other rooms off limits to him. Maybe there is a particularly messy room we think we haven’t sufficiently tidied and are ashamed to let him into, or a room we are too scared to enter at all. Jesus honors our desire for control of our own inner self, and knows we need to pace ourselves. When we allow Jesus to bring his living water to us, even if it is only to the foyer, he can begin to heal our wounds, calm our fears, remove our shame, and establish his spring of living water in the depths of our being.
Our need for this living, flowing water is as essential to our souls as clean water is to our bodies. Jesus constantly and eternally supplies us with this heavenly water. We only need to remember it is there and draw from him. Living water would, of course, be flowing. Let’s not stop the flow with sandbags and dams of sin and pain, but allow Jesus free reign to flow into every area of our minds and hearts, and through us to others.
Wherever we are on our journey, however long we’ve been walking with the Lord, there is more to open to him because he has so much more of himself for us. We are known intimately, treasured unconditionally, and he is solicitous to protect us. He makes himself vulnerable and accessible to us at every moment, every day and night. All we need to do is to open up and ask for more of him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what ways and at what times do you experience the greatest ability to be open to the Lord?
- What areas are the most difficult to open to him? Why?
- In what areas would you like to experience greater openness with him? Tell him.
Prayer
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
- Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
- And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray.
O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit,
did instruct the hearts of the faithful,
grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise
and ever to rejoice in his consolation,
through Christ our Lord.
Amen.1
Action Step
Ask the Lord to show you if there are areas of your life and your heart you have not yet opened to him or which he desires to fill even more fully with his living water and then give him permission to give you his life in these areas.
Journaling/Further Reflection
When Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well, it was noon, the hottest part of the day and the time people were least likely to draw water – she was hiding. She was hiding because of her shame, but he longed to bring his light to her areas of darkness so she might live in freedom. Ask the Lord to show you if you hide in any way because of shame. Spend some time writing to the Lord inviting him into these areas. Take time to receive him into those rooms.
Scriptures for Meditation
Job 13:15
Psalm 119:18
Matthew 16:24
Luke 24:45
Romans 12:2
James 4:7
Revelation 3:20
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Episode 2 – Creation and Fall of ManOn this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, touches upon four main points in the Creation and Fall of Man, beginning with an explanation of The Blessed Trinity, followed by God’s Creation of Angels and Humans, the Fall of Adam and Eve and the consequences, and the Promise Redeemer Jesus Christ.
Jimmy delves into the mystery and the three persons of the Holy Trinity, distinct but always one divine family of endless love. While God created all creatures, only humans and angels are endowed with intelligence and free will, and both humans and angels are called to love like God. God created man out of love and for love and to have an intimate relationship. The need to love and be loved is so profoundly embedded in intelligent beings that the failure to love does violence to their very natures. Jim further explains the definitions of love and commitment and their qualities and how, in relationship to God, love is expressed in obedience. God’s covenant with Adam is explained, as well as the dire consequences and psychology behind the fall of Adam and Eve. And lastly, how humanity is given new hope in Jesus, the Messiah, the new Adam, the anointed one, who, with his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, the new Eve, amend the disobedience in the garden.
This is the 2nd episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store – Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Understanding the nature of sin, we can often make the right choice, especially when faced with a moral dilemma. In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz discusses the issues and ways to avoid putting ourselves in harm’s way.
Moral Dilemma – Episode 288We are made in the image and likeness of God. We are told this in the first book of the Bible. We read in Genesis 1:26 (Read on air)
God created us; he has given us a body, mind, soul, and spirit. He has given us a sense of reason—the ability to figure things out, to judge, and to make good decisions. Sadly, our first parents, Adam and Eve, used their ability to make moral decisions, but not good ones! They failed and failed miserably. They took the beautiful gift of life, a wonderful world in which to live, and instead of a sense of wonder, they were tempted to defy God.
In a nutshell, a moral dilemma is going against the nature of God, the created order, and trending toward evil. Those who believe in doing whatever they want, whenever they want, are truly free. This is far from the truth. Freedom comes from a clear conscience, a sense of moral good that is ingrained in our souls, and a thirst for what is God. People seek love, for purpose, for friendships. That wanting in our hearts is the gift God has given us that we will find fulfillment first in Him, then in others.
To act morally depends on what we do, why we do it, and the situation or circumstances surrounding the action. For example, a moral good would be feeding the hungry, giving alms to a charity, or helping an older neighbor by cutting the grass. These are good things.
The opposite is murder or stealing. Acts such as these are evil. You could say that in war, murder is permitted; however, for the most part, murder is taking another’s life, and that is against God’s order. The Old Testament is filled with wars, one tribe against the other. The payment for sin is death. Romans 6:23 – 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
When we sin, we work against the Lord. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but by me.
Look at the Ten Commandments, and that gives you an idea of what God requires of those who follow Him.
The Ten Commandments
Moral DilemmaWhat makes up a moral dilemma? It is a situation we find ourselves in that stretches our faith and our resistance to evil. It is a temptation to do what is wrong. Many fall into the trap of rationalization. The person who says they cheated on their spouse because the person was unlovable. That is not a reason, nor is it fair to place blame on the other person. It is a symptom of not taking responsibility for an action. Retaliation is another way that people rationalize a bad decision or behavior. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
How do you make the right decision? It takes prayer and help from the Almighty God. It takes surrounding yourself with people who are like-minded in faith and morals. It takes not allowing yourself that first step into what may on the surface appear innocent but turn into something lethal. This happens when kids search online unattended, or even something innocent like an online encyclopedia or library app can lead kids astray.
It is important to have virtue, the realization that every life is valuable from conception to natural death, that every person is created in the image and likeness of God, that earth is our temporary home and our goal is heaven.
Our choices are so important. I read, or tried to read a very lengthy scientific abstract that was written by psychologists who took 48 test subjects, who were women and some were atheists, and others were Catholics. They asked them moral dilemma questions and asked them to make a decision. I took a look at the first question and the two outcome choices. Neither of them was acceptable to me (which I think was the point of the experiment because they were testing brain activity as well.) In fact, the first one was about a time of war, an orphanage and putting to death one child (so you would not be killed), one by suffocation, and another way by lethal injection. Neither is acceptable, right?
The findings were that one set of people had compassion and cared to a greater extent than the other. Their reasoning was that faith was very important to the moral decision that was made. That was not surprising to most of us.
Without faith, our moral compass would be off, but even those with faith tend to stray. It is a small step away from the Lord and then another and another. Think about missing church one time, the second time is easier and so forth. Bad habits can be made as easily as good. This is why it is important to set up a prayer routine and keep to it each day. It is helpful because it keeps us on track.
Being virtuous isn’t something we inherit or fall into, it takes training so to speak. It takes practice; it takes that good habit of prayer, reading the Bible, attending church, reading good moral books, and avoiding shows that are not only unhealthy for our state of being (horror or over-the-top action movies) on a steady diet. Being good is not enough.
The way we act leads to the type of person we are and what we are known for, in the sense of how others see us, but more importantly, how God sees us. How do you see yourself? What acts or choices have you made that give you the true freedom that comes from a life lived in Christ?
People who are against faith say that we do not have freedom but we do, we have the freedom to do anything that is not sinful. If you asked a non-believer if they were free to run a red light, murder someone, or steal, they would say no. Yet, they believe that because we are faithful, we do not have the freedom to do immoral acts, and I would agree with that. Immorality never leads to true happiness.
The evil one is out for our souls and hates anyone who loves and follows the Lord. Yet there is power in God who has defeated the evil one, broken the bonds of sin, and opened the gates of heaven. We read in Romans 6:8-10 (read on air).
But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. 9 For we know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. 10 The death he died, he died to sin, once and for all, but the life he lives, he lives to God.
We, you and me, can face the moral dilemmas in our lives with the assurance that we have the Lord on our side, and He and only He can give us the true freedom and joy that we seek in this life. Amen! This week, let’s work on creating those good and virtuous habits that will help us to grow in the Lord.
Read more here:
Contraception and Infertility
Birth Control here
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Begin with Prayer
“Once our motives are pure and upright and we seek not our own interests, but those of our Lord and Master, He has constant care over us, because He is infinitely good.” St. Ignatius Loyola
Some IdeasConsider having goals of your own with your spouse and family. Have a few that are spiritual, something fun; others can be professional or health-related.
Looking Forward to LentJoin me for a Lenten Prayer Group called Lightworks beginning the week of Feb 5. It’s on Tuesdays at 7 pm or Thursdays at 2:30 pm (eastern time). Contact me here or via Facebook or Instagram.
This week’s challenge, Plan with God! Ask this question in prayer: What do you want me to do that will give glory to you?
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Testimony of Jess EcheverryJess Echeverry is a wife, mother, family advocate, and speaker. She has survived parental divorce and alcoholism, as well as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Her testimony includes dark times of physical and sexual violence, teenage pregnancy, years of on and off homelessness, abortion, same sex attraction and two attempts at suicide. She is a strong and effective speaker who has been able to, with the help of God’s grace, turn those past experiences, and all the healing that she has received along the way, into real, loving help for others. As you listen to Jess share her empowering and merciful story may you be enlightened, be healed, and your faith be enriched.
Her husband Charlie is a Permanent Deacon for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and together they have 5 children.
Jess has previously appeared on multiple episode’s of EWTN’s The Catholic View for Women and BEK TV’s Ladies of Another View; radio interviews with Spirit Radio, Guadalupe Radio, Son Rise Morning Show and Incorrupto Radio.
This testimony was given in 2023 to North County San Diego, Palm Desert and Orange County Chapters in southern CA.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us magnificat ministry
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Episode 1 – God Speaks to His ChildrenOn this first episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series, James Seghers, our presenter, will focus on ‘how God speaks to us,’ how he speaks to us through divine revelation, through sacred tradition, and sacred scriptures. It will explain how divine revelation comes to us in two forms. In a number of Saint Paul’s written books of the New Testament, he describes how sacred tradition was faithfully handed down and enlightened by the Holy Spirit of Truth so that they were faithfully preserved and spread abroad by preaching. Our sacred traditions and Church doctrine have been passed down through the generations but will not necessarily be found in Sacred Scripture. The sacred Scripture described beautifully as God’s love letters, was divided into the Old and New Testaments. The Latin meaning of the Testament will be defined, and the important significance of its overall theme throughout the entire bible.
The New Testament lies hidden in the old, and the Old Testament is unveiled in the new. The apostles were faithful to the Commission they received from Jesus, preached the gospel to all nations, that message, preaching the gospel of all nations is the same for us today as it was so many hundreds of years ago. It will explain how many books make up the Old and New Testaments and what happened in the period of Martin Luther King during the protestant reformation that caused them to remove seven books from the Old Testament. Jimmy Seghers will give us the name of every book of the Old and New Testament and the writer of each book. He will also share the central theme of each book. We can rely on the richness of Church teaching to better understand how God has spoken to his children throughout the ages and how he continues to speak to us today.
This is the first episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.
Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship.
Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us magnificat ministry
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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God’s OpennessThe God of the entire universe, who is all-knowing and all-powerful, is open in relating to us. One of my favorite scripture verses is from the short little book Baruch, “Blessed are we, O Israel; for what pleases God is known to us!” (Baruch 4:4). How amazing it is that he chooses to make himself known to us! Not only does he reveal who he is, but also what pleases him. There is tenderness in his self-revelation and, given our free will, vulnerability. What if we didn’t know how to please him who loves us so personally and intimately? How we’d long to know how to bridge that distance!
Throughout time, we see God stooping further and further to show himself to us. Knowing we would many times reject him, he still so desires a relationship with us that he became incarnate. In doing so, he manifested who he is to us in a manner to which we could relate. Of all the ways he could have done so, he came as a tiny, helpless baby and has made himself even more vulnerable – to the point of a gruesome crucifixion and death. Finally, he remains in the Eucharist, where he hides his majesty in bread and wine. In the late 1600s, Jesus revealed his sacred heart to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. He asked her to remind us how much he loves all mankind and how he longs for our love.
It’s important for us to take note of the Lord’s openness with us. He starts from a place of seeing each of us as his dear children who are very good. He treasures us beyond measure, promises to provide for and protect us, and to work all things for our good (Romans 8:28). He gives us the freedom to choose or refuse him, and then intimately bares his heart to us. He wants an intimate relationship with us, but only one of our free choosing. He is omnipotent but doesn’t force himself on us. The Lord, who can easily go through locked doors, chooses to stand at the door of our hearts and knock (Revelation 3:20).
When someone knocks at our door, we can ignore it, dismiss the person, speak to them through the closed door, open it and talk to them on the porch, welcome them in as a guest, or bring them in to live with us in deep communion. What is our response to the Lord? He has knocked and continues to knock daily. It is up to us to answer.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What comes to mind when you think about God’s openness with you?
- Is there anything about his vulnerability that surprises you? If so, what?
- Is there a particular memory, thought, or emotion that comes to mind in considering Jesus opening himself to you?
Prayer
Most high God, omnipotent Lord of the universe, we give you thanks and praise for revealing yourself to us in the expanse and beauty of creation. Thank you for making yourself known to us in an infinite number of ways. More than all this, we are humbled and in awe of how you empty yourself for us and open yourself to us, longing for our love. Please give us eyes to see you and ears to hear you knocking at the door of our hearts, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Action Step
Spend a few minutes each day with the concept or an image of the Lord opening himself to you. Thank him and ask for the grace to let him in more deeply.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Consider the Lord opening himself totally to you. What is moved in your heart when you think of this? Wonder? Delight? Fear? Confusion? Tell the Lord and ask him what he wants you to know.
Scriptures for Meditation
Isaiah 53:7
Zechariah 9:9
Luke 2:4-7
John 6:54-57
John 13:5
John 19:31-37
2 Corinthians 8:9
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Follow the Joy by Fr. Tom SparacinoListen as Fr. Tom Sparacino, from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, proclaims with exuberance ‘Follow the Joy’ with his crowd-pleasing humor. He shares many stories that will captivate your attention. Joy at the foot of the cross with Mother Mary (“Ma” as he calls her) and answering the call of Jesus to “feed my sheep” are charisms of Fr. Tom. To live in joy is walking with purpose and overcoming any fear and pain when we give it all to Jesus. There may be sadness and atrocities all over the world, but there is joy in the house of the Lord. How we follow the joy is not done alone; we follow Jesus. We focus on Him who strengthens us. Living in joy is embracing Jesus and holding onto Mary. Joy is the breath and grace of the Holy Spirit. If we are joyful messengers, we will live out the good news with joy, passion, death, and resurrection. We need to remember the crib, the cross, and the crown. Fr. Tom suggests five habits to receive joy: live to listen to Him, live to praise Him, live in contentment, live in focus, and live to serve. We belong to the kingdom, so count it all JOY.
Fr. Tom has been a priest of Jesus Christ for the Diocese of Pittsburgh since 1998. He has served as high school chaplain, co-vocation director and is currently the Rector of St. Paul Seminary and the Director of Pre-ordination Formation. Fr. Tom has been the spiritual advisor to the Magnificat Pittsburgh Chapter since 2010. The Holy Spirit has poured His joy into Fr. Tom, and he gladly pours it out on all of us. His infectious laughter and lightheartedness and like a bright light in a dark world. We know you will be inspired as you listen to this joyful servant of the Lord.
This talk – Follow the Joy was given at the 17th Magnificat International Leaders Conference in Pittsburgh, PA in October 2023.
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Every day is a new day in Christ for those who believe. We get a blank slate to begin all over again. While this is a wonderful concept, it only matters if you plan to do it better or with the help of God.
Every Day Is A New Day In Christ ~ Episode 287How exciting to wake up every day and do it over. “This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118: 24
It can be a chance to make a new habit, spiritual or personal. We can use the new day to get closer to our relationship with Christ and dig deeper. Or we can waste our day and then long for a new day to start again.
Some recommended podcasts:
Calm In The Storm
Renew Your Mind
Each day, our list of things to do gets longer and longer. I used to track everything in a notebook, and now I use a combination of notebooks and apps on my phone, yet I don’t find myself getting any further ahead. In fact, I think sometimes I become distracted. This is one more thing to add to the list of areas of improvement. If you are like me, you are harder on yourself and expect more than you expect of others.
What is your goal? Is it to spend time with God?
We tend to get excited in a new calendar year but slowly lose that ambition as the year continues on and find, mid-year, perhaps, that we are far away from our goals to grow closer to the Lord. This year, I am going to challenge you and myself to keep that determination moving forward during the year. Not only can we begin again, but we can begin with renewed hope. I love the word “Hope.”
New Day In ChristScripture is full of hope and the realization that Christ has made us new; in fact, the Bible says if we are in Christ, we are a new creation. If our goal is to make every new day in Christ special, we begin being here. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we read, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” But what is that passage referring to? It tells us in verse five that the Spirit was given as a first installment. This is in reference to the Holy Spirit, God. Let me read the entire section from 2 Corinthians 5:5-10 (read on air.)
5 Now the one who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a first installment.[a]6 [b]So we are always courageous, although we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, 7 for we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 Yet we are courageous, and we would rather leave the body and go home to the Lord. 9 Therefore, we aspire to please him, whether we are at home or away. 10 For we must all appear[c] before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive recompense, according to what he did in the body, whether good or evil.
New Day In Christ ~ 1 Corinthians 5:We can be successful in our new day in Christ with the help of the Holy Spirit. The verse tells us so many wonderful things.
- The Spirit is the first installment.
- We are to be courageous – because this is not the end. Our world is not our home. (Calendar)
- We are in this world, but we do not need to be in this world. This means we can live our lives, but we must remember that this is not the end, and heaven is our goal.
- We walk by faith and not by sight. We do not need to see it to believe it. Faith is belief in what is not seen. If we could see it, we would not have faith to believe. We are confident in our love of God the Father, the Son- the Christ and the Holy Spirit. We have been called by name, and we rest in the assurance of this. What wonderful news.
- We want to please God; now, we have a chance each and every day. Wake up and give your day to the Lord. Offer it up.
- We will be judged at the end of time. When we die, we have finished the race, and now we await the judgment.
Being a “good person” is not enough. We should want to aspire for more than that.
Each day, we can go about our routine. Get up, praise God. Get dressed, praise God. Go to work. Praise God. The joys and praises of the Lord should be on our lips at all times. How do we do this? By His grace. Isaiah 40:31 states:
They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength,
they will soar on eagles’ wings;
They will run and not grow weary,
walk and not grow faint.
God gives us the renewal of strength so that we will not only run and not grow weary but we will soar on eagles wings!
Malachi 1:11 (Read on air). Each day the Lord reminds us that from the beginning of the day until the end of the day His name will be proclaimed among all of us who follow Him.
From the rising of the sun to its setting,
my name is great among the nations;
Incense offerings are made to my name everywhere,
and a pure offering;
For my name is great among the nations,
says the Lord of hosts.
And what about Ephesians 4:20-24 (Read on air.) We are asked to put away our former selves. The person you were yesterday or the day before. That person is a new creation; that person has been reminded that we worship the one true God. You are ready to learn and dive deeper, and you are ready for what th
That is not how you learned Christ, 21 assuming that you have heard of him and were taught in him, as truth is in Jesus, 22 that you should put away the old self of your former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and put on[a] the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth.
I challenge you to make your list of new day scriptures, jot these down in your prayer journal, and read them daily. Better yet, record yourself reading these scripture verses and listen to this recording daily. It will help you to become a prayer warrior and live each day to the fullest! And I pray we can remind each other to begin each day in prayer and praise, and how much better our day will become.
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Scripture
“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Luke 11:9
Why Pray Each Day?Because God has something to say to you, and you can’t hear him if you are not silent. Each day, spend some time with the Word, silence, and your journal. And by journal, it can be a sticky note on the page you re reading. Something to write what you hear in your time of listening to God.
What will your commitment be to God for quiet prayer, dedicated time just for him?
Need a Speaker?Contact me and we can talk about it!
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Testimony of Barbara HeilWe are delighted that you have chosen to join us today! This podcast features the conversion testimony of Barbara Heil.
Barbara Heil is a former Pentecostal prophetic minister who has traveled the world as a missionary, teacher, and evangelist. After an amazing journey, Barbara came into full communion with the Catholic Church in April 2013. She has spent the last few years traveling the U.S. and the world over, conducting worship seminars, retreats, and conferences, leading mission trips, offering prayer and counseling, and seeing thousands healed and set free inside and out, equipping lives for the Glory of God. She is a dynamic and inspirational speaker with a passion to awaken others to their destiny and purpose in Christ and to lead people in deepening their walk with God.” That is why her favorite scripture verse is 1 Peter 3:15: ‘But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.’
This testimony was given at the Pittsburgh Chapter Meal in October 2019.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend, and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Fall on MeBishop David Toups introduces his dear friend for over 20 years, Dr. Carol Razza. What we are about to experience is a woman who has stepped into the Holy Spirit with everything she’s got, and that is what she is going to help us do. Carol expressed, ‘Expect the unexpected.’ We can expect God to move, and in fact, He’s already moving. He doesn’t stop moving. What happens is we just don’t keep up. We need to keep up. We need to cry out, ‘Holy Spirit fall on me, over and over again.’ Fall on me, and not just to be filled but to be overflowing. We need to be spilling out all over filled with Him. All you must do is take that first step. Because that first step says I trust you. Lord. We experience abundant life filled to overflowing in Him. Carol takes us through a healing process to experience freedom though forgiveness and fullness of the Holy Spirit. Her lively and animated delivery leads you through a time of transformation to be rid of the lies we tell ourselves to a place of peace and freedom as a child of God and an heir to the kingdom.
Dr. Carol Razza is a full-time faculty member and formation advisor at St. Vincent de Paul Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida. Her degrees include an Ed. D in child and Youth Studies from Nova Southeastern University, an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Nova, and a B.S. in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University. She has worked in Private practice as a psychotherapist for over twenty-five years.
Dr. Carol has written two books, Sonblock – How Christians Unknowingly Shield Themselves from Grace and Parent Me Please!, helping parents parent their adolescents. Carol has been called to bring the awareness of God’s Kingdom throughout the world as an international evangelist. She lives in Father God’s supernatural joy and encourages to do the same. Dr. Razza’s greatest blessings are to her husband Paul, their wonderful sons and daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
This talk – Fall on Me was given at the 17th Magnificat International Leaders Conference in Pittsburgh, PA on October 7, 2023.
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God Provides BoundariesThe reason we started with the concept of connection to God was so we could have a clear understanding of the fact he is with us, knows us intimately, values us for who we are and sent his Son to save us by emptying himself on the Cross. He is continually emptying himself in the Eucharist and pouring his graces and mercy upon us, which draw us into the life of the Trinity. He makes his home in us through baptism and animates us by his Spirit. We cannot let go of this foundation as we consider this section on boundaries. If we do, we risk having a very distorted image of God.
As the author of life and our creator, he knows what limits are good for us, foster our health, and lead us to deepest intimacy with him, our fulfillment, and our prince of peace. The same way he set limits for the ocean, knowing what is good and necessary to foster life, so does he do for us. There is something very different, though, about his boundaries for us. He has given us free will, which means we can choose to embrace him and be embraced by him. We can run to our Father’s loving and protective arms or we can refuse them and their protection for us.
Our free will allows us to choose whether to abide by his law. We may choose to see his law as a set of rules that he requires us to follow, but the danger in this is it can very quickly lead to bitterness, judgment, and resentment. This was the mindset of the older brother in the story of the prodigal son who could not tolerate the father’s mercy. The father’s goodness caused him outrage, which revealed his own lack of connection to his father. He was obeying the rules as boxes to check off and a way of keeping his nose clean. This clearly did not lead to a depth of intimate relationship and certainly prevented him from being a conduit of grace to his brother. It’s difficult to imagine the older brother had much satisfaction in life beyond his self-righteousness.
There are times I have to refuse to give my dog things because I know they would not be good for her. Her limitations of language and understanding prevent me from being able to explain to her why I can’t let her go off-leash near traffic or why I can’t let her eat food that would be unhealthy for her. Sometimes, it hurts to say no to her and I have to remind myself it is for her own good. Indulging her desires, knowing they would be dangerous or deadly for her, would actually be an act of selfishness, not of love for her. How much greater the chasm between God’s understanding and ours! How much more does the Father know about what is good for us! His law is consistent because his wisdom is perfect and his loving protection is unwavering. Of course, we can choose to see God’s boundaries as requirements, because they do require our free response. The much fuller truth is that his law is first and foremost a providential and protective gift. We can respond with grudge or gratitude.
Blessed Julian of Norwich, a 14th century mystic, was gifted with revelations from our Lord himself. From what was shown to her she wrote Revelations of Divine Love in which she shares a profoundly compassionate and merciful thought, “God sees sin as pain in us.”1 He knows partaking of forbidden fruit makes us sick and it excites compassion from his heart. When we wander off he seeks us out and waits to embrace us when we turn back to him. He has already prepared for our return home to him by the mercy he offers us and which he longs for us to experience. He bathes our wounds, even those of our own making. He’s just that good.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Do you experience the sacrament of reconciliation as a time of fear and shame, or as a time of intimate reunion with God?
- Why do you think you experience the sacrament of confession the way you do?
- What strikes you as the greatest difference in seeing God’s boundaries as for us versus something that he wants from us?
- Does considering that God’s limits are an expression of his love change how you see his law and/or how you see him?
Prayer
All good and loving Father, your protective arms reach out to embrace us and keep us safely on the path to eternal joy with you. Thank you for your infinite mercy for the times we’ve chosen our understanding over your boundless wisdom and goodness. Please give us the grace to follow Jesus, the way to you. In his holy name we pray. Amen.
Action Step
If there are any aspects of morality with which you struggle, ask the Lord to show you how it is an expression of his loving protection for you.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Do you most often experience God’s law as gift or as demand? Consider if this might be based on your past experiences of limits from parents or early caregivers. Ask the Lord what he wants you to know.
Scriptures for Meditation
Deuteronomy 28:1
Deuteronomy 30:19
Joshua 1:8
Psalm 119: 165
Jeremiah 29:11
Ephesians 2:4-9
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Mystery of Faith ~ Episode 286What is the mystery of faith? In this podcast, we discuss the truths about faith, God’s grace, and how we should follow the light. Sometimes, we don’t understand but are willing to learn more. Your host, Felice Gerwitz, will share some powerful insights with you.
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Did you know that the “the mystery of faith” is found in 1 Timothy 3:9 in several translations, The Wycliffe Bible and the Douay-Rheims Bible? The verse states: “Holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience.” Meanwhile, the New International Version states, “They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.”
The mystery of faith is holding on to the deep truths of faith.
There are many things about faith that are mind-blowing when we stop to think about them. For example, the Trinity. The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit. One God and three distinct persons. It is a mystery. Or what about miracles? How do they happen? There is no explanation; it’s miraculous; it is something we believe in by faith.
Now, faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1. The basics of salvation are easy to remember, but for some, they are not so easy to understand. Jesus was born a babe through the power of the Holy Spirit, which overshadowed the Virgin Mary. He was raised by Mary and Joseph in Nazareth, born in Bethlehem of Judea, and lived a humble life. The Christmas story is well known.
The miracle continues with three men from the Orient, The three Wise Men (or the Wise Guys as my children used to call them), and through the study of light, or the star, the Magi knew they would find something remarkable: a king. Our pastor told us that they were studying the constellation Leo, which is the Lion or Judah. They knew the capital of Judah was Jerusalem. The light they saw represented a King, and they expected to see this baby in a palace dressed in finery, as only a prince would be born into a royal household. That is why they went to seek the baby in the palace of King Herod.
In the scriptures, Matthew 2:1-12 (It is long, so I won’t read it on air, but do take the time to read it yourself if you have not already) In this scripture we read that everyone knew the prophecy, and when the Magi asked King Herod, he was troubled. But what is shocking is that all of the chief priests and the scribes, the learned men who knew and studied the Word, ignored the call; they didn’t go, but the Magi didn’t ignore it. They were surprised the babe was not in the palace, but they immediately went to Bethlehem, prostrated themselves before the King of Heaven and of Earth, the baby in abject poverty, and felt prostrate before him and worshipped him. They followed the light. And, by the power of the Holy Spirit, they were infused with grace from God. What they found was not a royal baby dressed in fancy clothing but what they saw exceeded their expectations. This grace was given to them by God and was a mystery they could not understand.
God’s ways are not our ways (I’ll read Isaiah 55:8-9) in a minute, and we’ve long established this concept 0n many of the episodes, yet we continue to try to understand that which is a mystery: why Jesus, who is the second person of the Trinity, fully God, and fully man would come as a babe to a poor family. Why not a wealthy family? Why not as a King? The Magi, the wisest of men, were expecting a royal baby. That was certainly what the people of Israel were expecting: a king who would set them free from Caesar’s rule.
Yet we learn when Jesus was born.* It is in John 3:1 – In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar—when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee. It was a time of unrest, and the people were waiting for their savior. Yet, many missed him. Unlike the Magi, the learned men did not follow the light.
It was many years later that Jesus began his ministry at around the age of 30 – Luke 2:23 Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry… In Numbers 4:3, we read that you had to be at least 30 years old in order to serve as a priest; in Numbers 4:3, “Count all the men from thirty to fifty years of age who come to serve in the work at the tent of meeting.”
Jesus did not begin his public ministry until around 30, but can you imagine his life with Mary and Joseph? How wonderful to live with the Savior! Again, it is a mystery that the Almighty God would humble himself. The last we hear of Jesus is when Mary and Joseph find him in the temple after three days when he was twelve. The years after this are referred to as the hidden years. It was as if the Lord wanted to devote his time to his parents (his foster Father, Joseph, and mother, Mary), who would sacrifice so much for him.
If those concepts are known to us who are Christian and still astound us, can you imagine if you were not a Christian? If I asked you to make a list of all the things that puzzle you about faith, what would your list look like?
List of Mysteries of Faith:
- Why do bad things happen to good people?
- How does the Lord allow evil to take place in our world?
- Why do people continue to reject Jesus as the true Messiah?
In Isaiah 55:8-9 we read: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unjust man his thoughts, and let him return to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God: for he is bountiful to forgive. For my thoughts are not your thoughts: nor your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are exalted above the earth, so are my ways exalted above your ways, and my thoughts above your thoughts.”
This brings us to how God – who continues to call his people (us) back to Him again and again, has such mercy, such goodness, and such compassion! Yet, we continue to reject Him while we remain in error and sinful.
The mystery of faith is recognized by miracles that happen today. They are shrouded and often kept secret. For example, there are relics of the Holy Cross that Jesus died on that are kept in churches throughout the world. There are some at the Vatican. There are many historical accounts that Helena, the mother of Constantine the Great, was instrumental in recovering the True Cross in 326-328. That is something that isn’t often common knowledge!
We live in an age of unbelief and rejection, and as usual, I will not spell it out for you; you already know. And what I can do – what we can do is turn our hearts and minds totally toward God as a way of not only giving to the Lord but also reparation, to make up for those who have rejected Him. I will follow the Lord. I will learn and study; I will read good books that will fill my mind with knowledge and not fall short. It is a commitment I make today before you, and I pray the Lord gives me the grace to follow through.
And so let this be a lesson for us all that our loving God is calling us today and every day. Right now. He is calling you to come to Him. We don’t have to understand everything, and that is faith – the belief that Jesus Christ is Lord and that the Almighty has done great things for us. Yes, there are many mysteries of faith or scripture verses that may leave us puzzled, yet He has not rejected us; He waits for us with open arms. He has demonstrated this in His life, death, and resurrection. He has opened the gates of heaven, He continues to bless us and allow miracles to happen daily, and the Holy Spirit is with us always. Please, Lord let us be like the Magi, infuse us with grace to believe and to understand. The Lord Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and he has called us to worship Him.
I pray this is a time of miracles for you in your life – look for them each day. Rejoice in the mysteries of our faith and seek Him always. Amen and Amen.
*There is a super interesting article about how the age of Jesus was figured for all of those who say the math doesn’t add up. You can read it here.
Another article on the True Cross.
True Cross Article here.
A special on the Mystery of Faith here.
Interesting article about the Star of Bethlehem here.
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Exhortation to the MinistryIn the final general session of the International Leaders’ Conference, Donna Ross, Coordinator of the CST (Central Service Team), gave a talk on the ‘Exhortation to the Ministry.’ She defined the word ‘exhortation’ to strongly encourage us, and as you listen to her talk, she will truly inspire you. Donna emphasizes the importance of not grieving or quenching the Holy Spirit with our sinful thoughts and behavior. Paul exhorted that warning in Ephesians 4:30. We need to rise up and follow the Holy Spirit’s lead. To be truly effective, we must model our Blessed Mother to be humble, trusting in God, and obedient in our lives. Donna shares a story about a Monastery that was transformed by the message, ‘The Messiah was among them.’ We need to remember that message in our Ministry and in our daily lives.
Donna Ross is a cradle Catholic who strayed from the Church for many years before she realized what she was missing! A powerful call of the Holy Spirit brought her back to the Church with a new appreciation for her faith. She ended a 25-year career with the Magic Kingdom of Disney in 1994 to work for the Eternal Kingdom of God. With numerous skills developed in the workplace and enriched by the Lord’s grace, she was called into full-time ministry in His beloved Church. She has shared her conversion of heart on programs such as St. Joseph Catholic Radio, Wordnet’s “From Kingdom to Kingdom,” and Women of Grace®. In addition, she hosts the “Magnificat Proclaims” radio series featuring testimonies of Catholic women from around the world. Donna has been a leader in the Southern California Charismatic community, founded the Palm Desert Magnificat Chapter, and is currently part of Magnificat’s Central Service Team. She received the Diocese of San Bernardino’s “Our Lady of Guadalupe Award” for using her God-given gifts for the sake of God’s people.
This talk was given at the 17th Magnificat International Leaders’ Conference in Pittsburgh, PA on October 8, 2023.
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PrayerPersonal prayer is essential to internalizing the radical, profound intimacy the living God wants to experience with us. His love for us is infinite. It might be easy to read the last line and agree with it in our head, but in our heart still feel less than adequate, rejected, or forgotten. Our mind might be able to quickly categorize the statement as true, especially if we grew up in church, have studied Theology, or are religious or clergy. Yet, absorbing the Truth – God – is a lifelong process, one we will likely continue throughout eternity. It is not enough to know the description of God or how he desires to relate to us, even Satan knows the truth. We must make ourselves available to that relationship by spending time exposing our heart to him who exposes his heart to us.
There are many ways to pray, spontaneous intercession, praise and worship, the Rosary, litanies, or Mass. Contemplation is a quiet type of prayer in which we allow the Lord to permeate us at the core of who we are and transform us into him. To go to the source of water – a spring or a river – and draw water, but not consume it and allow our bodies to absorb the minerals and hydration would still leave us weak and dehydrated. St. John of the Cross talks about the importance of such prayer. He says,
Learn to abide with attention in loving waiting upon God in a state of quiet. Contemplation is nothing else but a secret, peaceful, and loving infusion of God, which if admitted, will set the soul on fire with the spirit of love. 1
Contemplation is spending time drinking in the living water of God’s self-gift to us by being present to the Lord who is present to us. This is fundamentally being before him in quiet availability with our hearts open to his heart. He dwells within us through Baptism and we receive him in the Eucharist, but contemplation is the process of being infused with him.
Because contemplation is personal and intimate prayer, St. John says it is “secret.” It is taking time away from other people, activities, and things, and being “in a state of quiet” paying attention to God and waiting on him. In that kind of waiting, we make time and space to let our hearts become available to be infused by his “spirit of love.” This love sets our souls on fire. The caveat is that we must grant him permission to permeate us in order for this to happen. As we know and have seen in the connection figure, he is within us at our deepest core. We aren’t trying to get him inside us from out there somewhere. Rather, we are allowing him to saturate us from the inside out.
Just like any relationship, growing closer and allowing someone into our heart and life is a process. The more we receive God, the more we love him in return, the more we feel safe with him, and the more we open ourselves up to him. In opening more, we permit him to more truly, fully, and deeply transform us and our lives. In relationships, we tend to reveal the good things about ourselves first. When the other person accepts us at that level, we have the courage to share some of our frailty with them and hide less of our weakness. Eventually, we feel confident enough in their good will toward us that we share with them our shame and pain. The same is true of how we grow in relationship with the Lord. This is why it takes time. It’s not a limitation in him but in us, and one with which he is perfectly patient and persistent. He always calls us more deeply into his peace and love, and it requires vulnerability to respond to his invitation.
Shalom, the Hebrew word for peace, has a much richer meaning than we are used to. It doesn’t simply mean the absence of conflict and stress. It is about wholeness, fulfillment, completion, and perfection. Jesus is the prince of peace. For this reason, it makes sense that spending time admitting him more deeply into every aspect of our lives draws us into deeper wholeness. It also draws us to holiness as we become more imbued with him. Thus, growing deeper in prayer can lead to us becoming more in touch with our brokenness or woundedness. This is an act of God’s love and mercy because he desires to make us whole, but it requires courage on our part to allow him to do so.
Spending time in quiet certainly can seem to amplify the noise we may have inside us. Sometimes that noise is busy-ness. At other times, it may be that we are using internal noise to drown out pain. I remember a time in my life when even a moment of quiet was intolerable. I had to always have external sound turned up really loud to overcome the cacophony of chaos inside. I’d get in my car and immediately turn the music up and get home and instantly turn the television on. The expression ‘peace and quiet’ sounded crazy to me because quiet was anything but peaceful. As our own wounds are healed, the noise within ceases. We relate in less painful ways toward ourselves, and others. We put up fewer and fewer obstacles to the flow of God’s love into us and through us to those he puts in our lives. The process and cycle of connection continues to deepen on all levels.
In order to succeed in the practice of contemplation it is helpful to make frequent use of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Just as in any relationship, we are capable of participating with another even if there is something out of order between us, but it is much more intimate when the conflict is resolved. The same is true for our relationship with God. Resolving conflict by confessing our sins is the first step to repairing and building anew. Starting from a state of conflict will only start us off from a place of noise, rather than a place of quiet. In addition, when we practice contemplation with God it can be helpful to find something simple that can hold our attention on him. For some that may be a scripture or a title of Jesus. For others, it may be an image or statue of him that we picture in our mind or have present with us. The point here is not to busy our mind, but to open our heart to his love in a state of receptivity.
Questions for Reflection/Discussion
- Do you find yourself avoiding being still and quiet with the Lord? Why or why not?
- What is the internal noise you might be trying to drown?
- Have you ever considered that prayer requires courage? What are your thoughts on this?
- Have you found a key that opens the door to prayer for you? What is it? (Scripture, image, etc.)
Prayer
Lord, thank you for your infinite love for us and for desiring us to live in the fullness of that reality. Please grant us the grace to receive this truth more fully into the depths of our mind and heart and be set ablaze by the fire of your love so our lives can give your warmth and light to all those we meet.
Action Step
Spend some time finding a scripture, quote, or picture that draws you into a sense of God’s love.
Journaling/Further Reflection
If you have a sense of disquiet when you go to pray, ask the Lord to show you why that might be and ask him what he wants you to know about it.
Scriptures for Meditation
1 Kings 19:9-12
Psalm 37:7
Psalm 63:2-4
Matthew 6:5-8
John 7:37-44
2 Corinthians 4:18
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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The Presentation in the Temple, Philippe de Champaigne. 1648; Join Simeon & Anna at the Presentation of Jesus
Seeking Consolation and JOY? Ann and Simeon Show Us the Way.Are you seeking consolation or more joy? Join us today at the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, where Anna and Simeon show us JOY. They offer us ten ways the Holy Spirit can help YOU.
Off to the TempleWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #7, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events, and Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ. Today, we travel with Mary and Joseph to the Temple and the Presentation of the Lord. There Anna and Simeon will join us at this very special event as we cover the following points:
Circumcised, Redeemed, and Purified (Luke 2: 21-23) At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Old Testament Mosaic Law required every firstborn Jewish male to be circumcised at 8 days after birth * The naming of the baby took place at the same time as the circumcision. * Mary and Joseph by divine appointment knew what the Child was to be called. And so “He was named Jesus” which means the Lord saves-* the name told to both Mary and Joseph via an angel (Luke 1: 30 and Matthew 1: 20).
Jesus Came to Fulfill All the Law (Luke 2: 23-24) Now, forty days after Jesus’ birth, Joseph and Mary again follow the Mosaic Law for the Presentation of Jesus in the temple and Mary’s Purification*. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus said He came to “fulfill the law,” which begins at His birth. * For Mary’s Purification, the sweet Blessed Mother of humble means offers “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons,” which Leviticus 12: 8 prescribed for a new mother who could not afford a sheep to offer.
The Presentation or Redemption of Jesus (Luke 2: 25-38) This “redemption of the firstborn” meant that the parents redeemed Jesus or bought Him back from God*. Isn’t it amazing that almost 33 years later, it would be Jesus who would pay the price for our redemption by dying on the cross? * The Catholic Church celebrates the Presentation of the Lord on February 2 every year.
Simeon & AnnaAlthough their lives differed, Simeon and Anna had much in common.
- Both Simeon and Anna were described as deeply spiritual people. They loved the Lord, practiced their faith, and did not allow themselves to become bitter or decrepit with the times.
- Both were “senior citizens” active in serving God. Pope Francis says of the Presentation: It is a meeting between the young, who are full of joy in observing the Law of the Lord, and the elderly who are full of joy in the action of the Holy Spirit. It is a unique encounter between observance and prophecy, where young people are the observers and the elderly are prophets! (The Feast of the Presentation, Vatican, 2-2-2014).
- Both knew the Scriptures.
- Both believed in the Scriptures and were looking for the Messiah. Bible scholars and theologians say Jesus has fulfilled at least 300 Old Testament prophecies.
- Both were looking forward with HOPE. The words looking for indicate they were actively waiting for the Savior with hope.
- Both worshiped, prayed, and adored God. Their eyes went more to God than to the news of the day. That brought consolation.
- The Spirit of God guided both.
- Both Simeon and Anna recognized the Messiah.
- Both received Jesus and were changed.
- Both Simeon and Anna received a message about Jesus from the Holy Spirit, and they shared it.
Simeon’s Prayer – The Nunc Dimittis Reflects Isaiah’s Prophecies (Luke 2: 29-32) Simeon’s prayer is one of the Church’s great prayers, or canticles (little songs). It is called the Nunc Dimittis because v. 29 in the Latin translation of the Bible begins with the words “Nunc Dimittis,” which means “now dismiss your servant.” In other words, Simeon was saying to the Lord, “Now I am ready to die; you can dismiss me, Lord; I have seen the Savior.” * Every evening, all priests, religious, and laypeople who pray the Liturgy of the Hours pray the Nunc Dimittis* prayer. * Today and every day, you can pray the Nunc Dimittis from Luke 2: 29-30.
Our Response Why not spend some time with these verses? Using your holy imagination, see yourself receiving Jesus from Mary’s arms as Simeon did. + Look into the face of Jesus and give Him your shame and sadness. + In exchange, receive His Love and JOY. He has come for YOU. You can’t help but be consoled. + Then like Anna, praise God because you have seen the Savior of the World. He has come to give You peace, as John 15 says, Peace I give you, but not as the world gives. He has come to give the world peace as Luke 2: 14 says, Peace on earth, good will toward to men*. He has come to give you His love.
Remember Lamentations 3:22-25. (ESV) … His mercies are fresh every morning. Great is His faithfulness 25 The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him.
LinksJoin me for my next podcast series, starting in February: Esther for this time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY.Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this next one: Esther for this Time: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. It’s free, and I will send you the materials you need for the one-hour discussion and study. For questions, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from A Joy-filled Advent Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here for the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
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Renewed By Faith, Miracles Happen ~ Episode 285Today, we will pray that we are renewed by faith! In last week’s episode, I shared with you that miracles do happen; I witnessed people being healed. I also wanted to share with you a list of God’s promises.
If you missed the last episode, you can find it here. Christmas Miracle
I attended a presentation by Maria Vadia, who has dedicated her life to serving the Lord. I spoke more about it in the last episode, here is her ministry is The Glory of God Foundation. Here, you can find a list of all the scripture verses she shared. If you can, pray and ponder these verses, and I pray you are renewed in your faith.
To recap, Maria prayed for miracles, and many people in attendance were healed. The real miracle is that God heals, and we were able to witness this by others present. One of my friends said her back was healed of pain. Another from her knee pain, and yet another from fear and anxiety. Praise God!
As she continued to pray for healing, you could see the people in attendance warm up to her. In the Bible, we read many times about how the Lord healed. People were skeptical that he was the Messiah, but when they witnessed miracles, they realized He was the Son of God. In Mark 2:1-12 there is an account of the paralytic who was lowered through the roof by his friends. The Lord took pity on him, and in Mark 2:5-12 we read…
5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves; and he said to them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and take your mat and walk’? 10 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— 11 “I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.” 12 And he stood up, and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”
When we read passages like this, how can we not be renewed by faith? Miracles and healings are not just for the past; they are for today! Right now. One thing that touched my heart was hearing Maria say she prayed for herself and she was healed. I’ve done this when I suffer from migraines when I remember to do it! I lay my hand on my head and pray, in the mighty Name of Jesus, that I am healed. Sometimes, I am healed, and other times, I am not. We do not understand the why, but we can praise God in the fruits of prayer, either way. With healing or no healing, that friend is the true miracle.
The miracle is when those who are not healed have the peace and the grace to endure with the help of God.
Yet, when someone shares the good news, people doubt it! We need a kingdom mindset this year. We need to change our attitude and see the goodness of God. When we focus on Him, we can have the peace and joy we crave. We have hope.
Word of God: We can receive healing through the mighty word of God, and it begins with knowing the Scriptures, believing them and memorizing them. God’s word is a lamp unto my feet. Psalm 119:104-106
Through your precepts I get understanding;
therefore I hate every false way.
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light to my path.
106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,
to observe your righteous ordinances.
Praise: Singing and worshiping is praying twice. Praising God in word or song helps to get our spirit in tune with God. Psalm 33:3 – “Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts.”
The atmosphere changes when we praise God, and the scriptures are full of words of praise for the Lord.
Joy: We must be joyful; the joy of the Lord keeps us strong. Proverbs 22:17-18
The words of the wise:
Incline your ear and hear my words,[b]
and apply your mind to my teaching;
18 for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you,
if all of them are ready on your lips.
A joyful heart is good for our bodies, and it can be healing. The joy of the Lord is good! This is in contrast to what the world tells us. In Galatians 5:22 we read: By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Praying: It is important to pray and to pray with others. Matthew 18:19-20Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”Many times when I pray, I lead with that prayer. I ask the Lord to calm my mind, to help me focus on Him, and I ask for the Holy Spirit to come, then I pray, Lord, you promised, where two or more are gathered in my name, I am there among them. Please dwell among us… then I lift up the prayer or the need. When we pray we should use Scriptures they are so powerful.John 14: 15-17If you love me, you will keep[f] my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate,[g] to be with you forever. 17 This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in[h] you.and God promised not to leave us orphaned. John 14: 18-21“I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. 19 In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. 20 On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 They who have my commandments and keep them are those who love me; and those who love me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them.”Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Not only that, but God gave us the gifts to use to pray for healing. 1 Corinthian 12 4-11Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.It is up to God how he gives the gifts to each one of us, but that doesn’t mean you can’t pray for them! God is a generous God. We can claim healings in the Name of Jesus. But then we must give glory to God.The Bread of Life: For me, as a Catholic, that means the Eucharist. At this time, I pray to the Lord, I ask for a deeper relationship with Him, I say, Come, Lord Jesus Come. John 6 (read the entire chapter), but after Jesus performed the miracle of the bread and loaves, the people questioned him, and they wanted more signs. They said what sign you are going to give us then?John 6:29-34 —Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” 30 So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which[g] comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.”lieve in him whom he has sent.”So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? He then went on to say in John 6: 35-37 – 35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. 36 But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. 37 Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away; 38 for I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. 3We must believe, and that is the biggest obstacle. Just like the people who saw miracles from the very hands of our Lord and Savior didn’t believe and wanted more miracles, that is how we are today. God wants us restored; he broke the bonds of sin, and the enemy has no power over us. Jesus forgave our sins, he died on the cross to take on our sins, and He rose from the dead and conquered it!I want to leave you with this powerful scripture – Romans 8:9-10But you are not in the flesh; you are in the Spirit,[a] since the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit[b] is life because of righteousness.Amen and Amen! Let God be praised today and always.The post Renewed by Faith appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Monique MoussotMonique shares her personal testimony at the Magnificat Saturday night dinner held in Pittsburgh. The audience was enamored with her every word as she shared her ‘awe–inspiring’ testimony, and so will you. To set the stage for Monique’s early years, she was baptized Catholic and received the sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation but had no sense of a loving God. She was quiet and did not talk much. She had few friends growing up. Her family life was unpredictable due to young and inexperienced parents. Her family was poor and lived in meager surroundings. She and a younger brother endured the uncertainties of home life and struggled with a low self-image. Her college life brought new hope but then she got ill. She met a group of praying women, and that was the beginning of her physical and spiritual healing.
Monique Moussot was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. Born to teenage parents struggling with, shame, drug addiction, bitterness, betrayal, and rejection, her stage was set for a lifetime of difficulty and failure. Instead, Monique was transformed by God’s powerful grace. Hers is a joyful story of rescue and deliverance. Small graces, turned into healing and transformation. Monique was freed from crippling illness, anxiety, resentment, and rage after she met a community of Prayer Group women who told her about Jesus. Monique will share her experiences of how living a new life and learning how to say ‘yes’ to Jesus led to unexpected miracles. Over 30 years in Corporate America, serving in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, working for the Archdiocese of New York, and now serving Magnificat with the Regional Communication Service Team, Monique knows that nothing is impossible for God, because He makes all things new.
This testimony was given at the 17th Magnificat International Conference in Pittsburgh, PA, October 7, 2023.
The post Testimony of Monique Moussot appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Valued by GodGod’s love for us is unlike any other. As covered in the previous section, God created us and so knows us and loves us intimately. Now consider he does so knowing he will always be giving to us far more than we could ever begin to repay, far more than we will even be able to comprehend. He is not just a good father. He is our heavenly Father. He is God and adopts us as his own. This means he chooses us freely, knowing everything about us, good, bad, and ugly.
At times, we experience circumstantial relationships, like the interaction with a clerk in a store or wait staff in a restaurant. Both parties know the primary purpose of the encounter is an exchange of goods or services. Such times can be transformed into healing and evangelistic encounters when we take the time to see and acknowledge the human being before us truly. We may also experience personal relationships where the message is conveyed that the other is mostly interested in what we can provide them, for example, if someone relates to us for our looks, money, status, or because they want us to do something for them. When interpersonal relationships take on a transactional dimension, it can be quite painful. It can leave us feeling treated like an object or as a means to an end. This is the absolute opposite of God and how he relates to us. Rather than giving to us for what he can receive from us, he gives to us, desiring our capacity for him to increase so we may receive more and more.
Jesus, who is total fullness, emptied himself (Philippians 2:7) in order to become one of us. He desired to redeem each of us by his self-sacrificing love, already knowing how we would blow it. Not only that, but he chooses to seek us out when we are lost. He is the good shepherd and leaves the ninety-nine to find us, as we hear in the Gospel parable (Matthew 18:12-14). His love for us is not transactional or because he needs something from us. He cherishes us as surely as a shepherd would treasure a lost sheep once he found it.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Recall a time you felt valued for who you are and not for what you could give or do. What stands out about it to you?
- What image of Jesus helps you to conceptualize his unconditional love for you?
- What makes it difficult for you to fully accept the fact that God values you for who you are?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are the Good Shepherd who seeks us out when we are lost. You put us on your shoulders, delighted to bring us home. We thank you for your faithful love for us, which far exceeds anything we could ask or imagine. Please heal us from the lies we have believed that we are not valuable for ourselves, but only for our performance, looks, or what others can get from us. We ask you for the grace to experience your delight in us and that you always watch for us just as the prodigal son’s father watched for him, and ran out to him “while he was still a long way off” (Luke 15:20). Thank you for the immensity of your tender love for me personally. Please give me the grace to accept this love ever more deeply. Amen.
Action Step
Recall an image from scripture that helps you see God’s value for who you are (the creation account, the lost sheep, the lost coin, the prodigal son, etc.). Post a reminder of this somewhere you will encounter it throughout the day (on your phone, in your car, on the bathroom mirror, etc.). Allow this image to be a reminder that your value is inherent because of who God is and who he made you to be.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Ask God to help you identify any blocks within you that might prevent you from believing and experiencing the way God cherishes who you are. Ask him what he wants you to know about that and then note what he puts on your heart.
Scriptures for Meditation
Isaiah 43:4
Matthew 6:25-34
Luke 12:6-7
John 3:16
Romans 8:28
Titus 3:4-7
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
The post Valued by God appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Perplexed? Exchange Your Plans for God’s Plans!Do you find changing plans perplexing? Mary and Joseph changed their plans often as they listened to God. Why not ask God to help you lean into change? God can help you most when you are willing to exchange your plans for God’s plans!
Advent JOYWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #5, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events, and Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ. Today, we travel with Matthew’s Gospel, meet some unexpected members of Jesus’ ancestry, and hear of Joseph’s dream and his faithfulness to Mary. Matthew fills us in on details of Mary’s return home to her betrothed Joseph after she visits Elizabeth.
The Family Record (Mathew 1: 1-7, 16-17)* So, we start with Matthew 1. At the time of Jesus, families kept a genealogical record (or family tree) to distribute inherited property and other rights under Jewish laws. * Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI points out that Matthew 1 is not a perfect historical account that includes every single member of the ancestry of Jesus Christ, saying: ”This was not Matthew’s goal.“ (Jesus of Nazareth: The Infancy Narratives, 2012, p. 8). * Matthew wrote to appeal to the Jews by placing Jesus first and foremost as the Son of Abraham—the Patriarch and Father of Israel promised as part of an everlasting covenant with God (Genesis 17: 6-7), and as the Son of David—the priestly King of Israel, whose ancestors were prophesied to reign forever (2 Samuel: 7:13).
Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba in the Lineage of Jesus Jewish lineages, at the time of Christ, usually did not contain names of women. Christ’s ancestry lists five women in Matthew 1. Of course, we would expect the Blessed Virgin Mary to be named. But there were four others listed—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba who came from foreign ancestry or had a reputation for immorality that could have disqualified them from inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ. All were Gentile women who turned away from immoralities or idolatries to become faithful to God in their circumstances. * Even if your past life or “family tree” seems dishonorable, Jesus offers you forgiveness, grace, mercy, and a new beginning when you turn to Him.* You are part of the family of God, and every day you can have a new life in Christ. Hebrews 2: 11: G”od is not ashamed to call them [or you] brothers and sisters.” * Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI wrote on the deeper meaning of the genealogies of Jesus and said:“[T]hose who believe in Jesus enter through faith into Jesus’ unique new origin, and they receive this origin as their own…Joseph did not beget Jesus but was truly born of the Holy Spirit from the Virgin Mary, so it can now be said of us that our true ‘genealogy’ is faith in Jesus who gives us a new origin and …to birth ‘from God” (Jesus of Nazareth, p. 12-13).
Found with Child (Matthew 1: 18-25) Dreams were a common way God communicated with His people in the Old Testament. Joseph did not hesitate in his response to the angel in the dream. He trusted God to work everything out. He willingly exchanged his plans for God’s plans. We could say he leaned into God’s plans.* * Joseph, from the tribe of Judah and the house of David, a carpenter by trade, became the legal head of this precious family (Abbott Ricciotti, The Life of Christ, 1947). Joseph is a role model to families—looking for God’s plans and leaning into them. This was the beginning of Joseph’s mission for life. Some have said it this way, Joseph was born for this vocation — to be the father of Jesus and Mary’s most chaste spouse. Like Mary, Joseph said “yes” to his vocation. His entire happiness was in knowing what God wanted him to do and carrying it out to the end ( Fernandez, Conversation with God, Vol. 1, 1997). He was devoted to God and his family.
Our Response1. Lean into God’s Plans. Can you picture Joseph’s perplexity when his plans suddenly changed? He was likely building the house, planning the wedding, or earning extra money for the marriage, but he was unprepared to hear Mary’s announcement. Then God gave him more direction through an angel in a dream. He leaned in the changes. You can ask yourself: Am I open to changing my plans to fit God’s plan? Talk to Jesus about how you can stay open to God’s plans. What changes can you lean into? 2. Accept Your Place in God’s Family. If you feel unworthy or unqualified to be part of God’s family, remember Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth. These women changed direction to follow God, joined God’s family, and are part of the lineage of Jesus. It is not too late for your family to come to God. Ask Jesus to forgive you and your family. Ask him to help you change directions. Then do what he tells you.
Links
Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies each podcast series, especially this one: A Joy-filled Advent: Journey with the People, Events, and Prayers. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. For more information, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from A Joy-filled Advent Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here for the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post Perplexed? Exchange Your Plans for God’s Plans! – A Joy-Filled Advent #5 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Jesus Christ is Born – Join the Chorus of Angels & Shepherds!
Needing More JOY and Peace?Do you need a message that brings MORE JOY and Peace? Join us today for the birth of Jesus and meet the Angels and the Shepherds who have a lot to share. Uniting your heart with the Angel’s Gloria and the Shepherd’s praises will help you know more JOY and peace.
Traveling to BethlehemWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #6, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events And Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ. Today, we return to the book of Luke. There we join Blessed Mary and Joseph on their 80-mile journey to Bethlehem. When they arrive, they find it crowded with people, who like Mary and Joseph, had come at the command of Caesar Augustus.
Join us today for these points:
No Home for the Creator of Creation (Luke 2: 1-7) Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, in the City of David, as prophesied by the Old Testament prophet Micah over 700 years earlier and recorded in Micah 5: 1-3. * Emperor Caesar Augustus, a master bookkeeper and statistician, likely wanted to keep track of his subjects and kingdom by public enrollment. * Joseph had to go to Bethlehem, as he was a descendant of King David. Mary went along too – she may have been required to register, or Joseph wanted her with him. * Bishop Fulton J. Sheen explains: Joseph “searched in vain for a place where He, to Whom heaven and earth belonged, might be born. Could the Creator not find a home in creation? … A stable would be the last place in the world where one would have looked for Him. Divinity is always where one least expects to find it. (Life of Christ*, 1958, p. 13-24. * Jesus, God Incarnate and the Savior of the World was born and then tightly wrapped in bands of cloth by his mother, Mary, and laid in a manger where animals ate.
The Good News (Luke 2: 8-11) The angel’s message of “Good News” is summarized (v. 10-11): “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the * We can say with assurance that Jesus is our Savior, who delivers us from sin and makes us right with God. He is our Messiah*, the anointed one who will reign as KING forever.
The Fields Outside of Bethlehem (Luke 2: 12-20)* Amazingly, God chooses shepherds—the little, the lowly, the less important of the world (1 Corinthians 1: 28), but also calls himself a shepherd (e.g., “I am the Good Shepherd,” John 10:11). In Ezekiel 34:12-16, God describes himself as one who “shepherds right.” He tends sheep, rescues them, leads them, gives them rest, brings back the lost, binds up the injured, and heals the sick. * Jesus is our Shepherd: If at times you feel “lowly,” please know that Christ is YOUR Savior and Shepherd. He came for you! You are His little lamb, and He loves you. * Some shepherds around Jerusalem took care of the temple lambs used in the temple sacrifices. Shepherds would wrap lambs born without blemish in swaddling cloths and place them away from the others (e.g., Leviticus 4-5). Amazingly, the shepherds caring for the temple lambs used for sin offerings would be the first to recognize Jesus Christ, who came as our sin offering forever!
The Angel’s Gloria and the Shepherds Praises (Luke 2: 14-20) We find two beautiful choruses in Luke 2:14-20. First, there’s the Angel’s* “Gloria” (v. 14), which is so-called because the first word in St. Jerome’s Latin translation is “Gloria.” * This song of the angels proclaims peace to a world that needs peace as we do now. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; the peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid” (John 14:27, NABRE). The only place of true peace is in Jesus; today, we must remind ourselves of this. We can join the angels in praise: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward all.” * The second chorus includes the shepherds’ praises (v. 20). They praised God for the good news from the angel and the song of the heavenly host of angels. From them, we learn that praising God for His goodness is a wonderful way to evangelize and get other’s attention on our Savior.
Mary Treasured and Pondered God’s Words (Luke 2: 19)* Mary “treasured and pondered” these things in her heart. * She gives an example for us in treasuring, pondering, and delighting in the things God has revealed, especially because we have God’s Word in Scripture.
Our ResponseTry to put yourself in the scenes with Mary, Jesus, the angels, and the shepherds. Then prayerfully ask:
- Am I praising God for sending Jesus, like the angels and shepherds did?
- Am I making a “manger” for Jesus in my heart, allowing Him to be my Savior and Lord?
- Am I receiving the true joy and peace that Jesus offers?
- Am I treasuring God’s Word in my heart as Mary did?
LinksPlease consider hosting a weekly one-hour CUP of JOY Women’s small group. Karen provides studies and discussion questions to accompany each podcast and each series. In February and for Lent, we will start the new series: Esther for This Time: Prayers, Reversals, and JOY. It is an exciting podcast series about how God answered prayer and sent mighty reversals for a family, people, and nation. Click here to read about hosting a CUP of JOY Women’s small group. For more information, email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com.
Free Bookmarks: You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from A Joy-filled Advent Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
More Podcasts: Check out more podcasts here!
Advent book: Click here to get a copy: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post Needing more JOY or Peace? Join the Chorus of Angels & Shepherds! – A JOY-Filled Advent & Christmas #6 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Christmas Miracle Everyday ~ Episode 284What is a Christmas miracle, and how can we experience this every day? In this episode of A Few Minutes With God, Felice shares a recent event that changed her perspective on prayer and miracles.
Here are some other podcasts to enjoy.
- Christmas is Real.
- Christmas Countdown
- Celebrate Christmas
- Christians After Christmas
Today I want to share with you the good news! Christmas does not just happen one day a year; as Americans, we celebrate this on December 25th, so if you are listening to this on Christmas Day – Merry and Blessed Christmas.
But Merry Christmas should be in our hearts all year long. Why? Because during Christmas we celebrate the Word, the Incarnate, Christ our Lord, being made flesh.
John 1:14 – And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son,[a] full of grace and truth.
The entire beginning of John is my favorite verse, and I want to read them for you.
Christmas Miracle Today:John 1:18
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4 in him was life,[a] and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.[b]
10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own,[c] and his own people did not accept him. 12 But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.
14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son,[d] full of grace and truth. 15 (John testified to him and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’”) 16 From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. 17 The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son,[e] who is close to the Father’s heart,[f] who has made him known.
This is the miracle we celebrate once a year with presents and food, with family and friends, and with decorations. Yet, the miracle is truly that because of this amazing event, the Lord Jesus came into our lives as a babe, lived a life free from sin, at 32 began his public ministry, was ridiculed and suffered; he took on our sins and died on the cross to set us free, then rose from the dead three days later.
We reside with Him in the spiritual sense in the Holy of Holys. As Christians, we unite our lives to His, and He, by his life, death and resurrection, has created for us a life that can be miraculous.
In December I attended a dinner hosted by a Christian women’s group featuring Maria Vadia. I have met Maria many times and she spoke at our Magnificat Prayer Breakfast as well a few years ago. Everytime I hear her speak I feel the annointing of God and His presence. She has an amazing story of how God used her to share the good news worldwide. Her ministry is The Glory of God Foundation
(Share how I didn’t want to attend the meeting – and ended up feeling sick after lunch).
Maria spoke to an audience that wasn’t used to hearing about miracles and healing. Her entire ministry is based upon this and the charisms that God has given her in her healing ministry. She gives all the glory to God, as the name of her foundation attests. What happened that evening was that many people (even those reluctant to believe) were healed. A friend shared with me today at Mass that the friend she brought with her was healed. Amazing.
But why are we amazed? Why are we surprised?
Maria told about how the Lord wants to heal us, yet she shared that not everyone she prayed for was healed –but many had joy in their hearts even if they were not healed. God gave them the blessings and consolations of peace in their situations. As she spoke she quoted so many scriptures I had a hard time taking notes! She said one of the gifts the Lord gave her was a hunger for His word. She said that Jesus took on every sin on the cross. 2 Corinthians 5:21-For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. And Hebrews 9:22–Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.
And that the good news was that He took away every sickness. Isaiah 53:5 — But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. And, she said that by his wounds we are healed —1 Peter 2:24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross,[a] so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds[b] you have been healed.
And that Jesus came and is one with the Father and ministers to his people. John 5:19
–Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father[a] does, the Son does likewise.
Jesus taught, he preached, and he healed – and that is why her ministry is centered on doing what Jesus said, Matthew 10:7-8 As you go, proclaim the good news, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’[a] 8 Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers,[b] cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment.
She began calling out different ailments. She started by saying that God would heal someone with kidney issues. In my heart, I claimed that healing for my youngest grandchild, my grandson was born with kidney issues that the doctors hope he outgrows. So, in the Name of Jesus, I claim the healing for Andrew.
I want to be like her and proclaim the good news. The King of God is at Hand. Mark 16:15: And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news[a] to the whole creation.
She said God created us for a kingdom purpose, we are to do His will. Ephesians 2: 4-10
But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ[a]—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— 9 not the result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.
One main thing was that she shared was that we needed to change our perception of healing, that God wants us to believe we can be healed. John 8: 31-32 Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
She said the healing is there but few believe.
1 John 3:8 — Everyone who commits sin is a child of the devil; for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The Son of God was revealed for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.
The enemy wants to keep us in bondage – but Jesus Christ came as a babe so that we could be set free! Amen.
She continued on by sharing other ailments that were being healed. Knees, backs, eyes, breathing problems and more. I will do another podcast with all of the scripture verses she used in a handout for you! There were so many and I think it would be beneficial for all of us to have them in a printable form.
A young priest, Father Daniel was in attendance, and later he asked me if I saw the show of hands of those who were healed. I had not, but he said over half of the audience, more than 200 women were in attendance. Praise you Jesus.
So, as you can see the Christmas miracle continues today and every day. Go forth today, my friends. Believe the good news. Jesus Christ is alive today and always. Find your own Christmas miracle daily, that is your challenge.
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Zechariah writes, His Name is John!
Needing Calm? Seek Stillness with God!Do you need more calm in your life? Today, Zechariah teaches us to seek God in stillness and shows us the joyous blessings. Stillness with God will do the same for you this Advent, giving you more joy and peace!
Advent JOY & the Celebration at Zechariah’s HomeWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #4, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events, and Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ.
Today, we are going to a celebration at Zechariah’s home. It’s the circumcision and naming of his newborn boy. Can’t you picture yourself as one of the neighbors who has come to help name the baby born to the old priest Zechariah and his aged wife, Elizabeth? Can you hear yourself say:
“This must be some child—a miracle baby! What a blessing from the Lord for Elizabeth! Zechariah is mute since the last time he went up to serve in the temple.” Join the podcast as we cover these exciting points:
The Circumcision and the Sacrament of Baptism (Luke 1: 56-59) The neighbors come to celebrate the birth and help with the circumcision. * Circumcision is a rite by God under the Old Covenant, usually performed on the 8th day after birth. It was a mark on a male and a sign that he was in covenant with God, sanctified for divine service, and a member of the Jewish people. * Under the New Covenant, circumcision is not a religious ritual for us (Galatians 5: 6). * The circumcision ritual is similar to the Sacrament of Baptism, celebrated with family, friends, and godparents. * For the Christian, baptism is a sign one belongs to Christ, is united with Him in His death, and is incorporated into the Church (Hahn, Catholic Bible Dictionary*).
The Neighbors Want to Name the Baby Zechariah (Luke 1: 60-66) Zechariah confirms that His name is JOHN*. * Immediately, Zechariah’s mouth was open, and his tongue was freed.
Zechariah’s Silent Retreat Results in Joyous Benedictus Blessings (Luke 1: 67-79) Zechariah grew in faith, peace, and trust in stillness with God. * Benedictus means Blessed be..the Lord. * Zechariah’s prophecy is called a canticle, which means “little song”- a liturgical song from a Biblical text. * Zechariah thanks God for the promises to be fulfilled in the Messiah and for His Son John, who would go before the Lord to prepare His way, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by forgiving their sins.*
Responding to the Scripture Seek God in stillness. Choose a quiet morning or evening during Advent. Turn off all media and be present with the Lord in adoration, prayer, and Scripture. Sit with God and LISTEN. You may find a new vision, peace, and a deeper relationship with God – the one He wants with you. * Let God redeem you.* If you are living in any darkness or carrying baggage, Jesus wants to carry your baggage, forgive your sins, and give you peace. “By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Links
Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies one of the podcast series, especially this one: A Joy-filled Advent: Journey with the People, Events, and Prayers. Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. For information, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from A Joy-filled Advent Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here for the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post Needing Calm? Seek Stillness with God! – A JOY-Filled Advent #4 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Stepping Into Your Anointing Psalm 18:20 “He set me free in the open; He rescued me because He loves me.”
Janice Charbonnet had a life-changing encounter with the writings of St. John Paul II, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, a deep passion for ministering to women began. Born and raised in Canada Janice felt the call to quit her PR coordinator position in Canada and began service as a missionary with NET Ministries, traveling with teams across the US preaching the Gospel to teenagers. Janice moved to the New Orleans area and now serves on the women’s team for the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans. She and her husband, Jean, speak at marriage retreats and draw on their life as parents of five children. Janice preaches freedom in the power of the Holy Spirit.
This talk – Stepping Into Your Anointing, was given at the 17th Magnificat International Leaders Conference in Pittsburgh, PA in October 2023
The post Stepping Into Your Anointing appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Known by GodAs we begin to take a look at our connection to the Lord, we start with the fact that he deeply and personally knows us. Ideally, we would have had a sense of being known (seen and heard as an individual who is very good) by our parents and caregivers as children. When that happens, it naturally creates a schema in our minds by which we are able to mature more smoothly and with a positive self-concept. The experience of being regarded as an individual who is seen and heard personally as very good, the way God sees us, becomes the basis for how we view ourselves.
For those of us who did not have such an experience as a child, it’s never too late. The Lord knows each of us in a deeply intimate way and that’s a good thing! He sees each one of us with all the beauty he deposited within us. We each delight his heart in a very special way no one else does or ever can. You are made to reflect an aspect of his magnificence in a way no one ever has or ever will. You are not a number to him. Scripture tells us he has even counted the hairs of our head. He is the most loving father there ever could be. He has called us to be his children. With him as father, it’s never too late to have a great childhood.
Oftentimes, we hear or read about having a personal relationship with the Lord. Do we consider he knows us each, personally? That is the starting place. He is the one who has initiated our relationship. Imagine how a good parent delights in their newborn or toddler. Such joy is not in what the child can do for them, but simply for whom the child is. God delights in each of us the same way. He sees in us unique characteristics of his own design. His father’s heart is filled with love at the sight of each of us.
This is the heart of God. This is the well from which he wants us to draw living waters. The well of his heart is infinite, superabundant and will never run dry. There is always a deeper intimacy he has for each of us and for which he longs. Intimacy with him is the source of deepest fulfillment. He longs for us to experience being known by him. He desires to give us this gift, his love, himself. Learning to draw this living water of his love is a process. Drinking these life-giving waters takes time in prayer and conscious effort. When so much noise clamors around us, it is necessary to remind ourselves of the presence of God so we can be lifted above the noise.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Is there a way or a place you experience God’s love as personal?
- At what times is it particularly challenging to remember the Lord is with you?
- Is it difficult for you to believe God sees you as an individual? Why?
- What is something that draws you into deeper intimacy with God?
Prayer
Pray Psalm 139.
Action Step
Find a way to remind yourself throughout the day of the Lord’s presence with you.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Consider how you did or did not feel known as an individual who was very good when you were a child. Invite the Lord into whatever memories come and ask him what he wants you to know. Note what comes to mind.
Scriptures for Meditation
Jeremiah 1:5
Nahum 1:7
Psalm 139
John 10:14
John 10:27
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Faith Matters ~ Episode 283How important is faith in your life? For many, faith matters to a lesser degree than it should. In this episode, Felice explores the importance of staying vigilant in our walk with the Lord and how to shore up our resolve in times of weakness.
You may enjoy these podcasts:
- Spiritual Sandpaper
- Prayer Text
- Glory and Praise Forever
Have you seen t-shirts, signs, mugs, and even Christmas decorations with the words “Believe” on them? This seems like a good thing, but is it? What do we believe? What do they believe? There are some false prophets out there who talk new-age nonsense, and that is something we should avoid.
Quickly, the new age is a hack of real faith. Some of it sounds good; for example, you should have “love, joy, and peace” in your life. But then it gets wacky and says things like, you should do what your heart tells you, you should do what you feel like doing, whatever feels good, do it. It further gets into the use of “spiritualism,” involving transcendental meditation, reincarnation, the use of crystals, and other strange occult practices. That, my friends, is a recipe for disaster. The new age is entrenched in the occult.
All the more reason, we should be aware of what we believe and shore up our faith in the truth. The real God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit. If faith is important, answer the following:
- Why do you care about faith?
- Why do you worship?
- Why do you work at doing what is right?
What do we really believe? In a study my daughter did in her classroom at a Christian school, she asked her students if they could tell her their denomination (if any) and what they believed. Many could not clearly articulate their beliefs, and so their assignment was to go home and discuss it with their parents. It is amazing that we can attend church regularly, Bible studies, and other prayer groups, yet when asked, it is difficult to define our beliefs clearly.
Sure, faith matters, but if we don’t know what we believe, that could be part of the problem. We want to put on the armor of Christ, Ephesians 6:10-18 which begins, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. …
We should spend some time thinking about what we believe and make prayer a priority. Why? Because when strife or adversity comes into our lives, we must be prepared. It typically goes one of two ways. When adversity hits, we either become more committed in our faith or question God with the “Why me?”
Many of us fall into the downward spiral of self-pity, and that is difficult to get out of; we’ve all been there. I just visited the cemetery today to put flowers on the gravesite of my parents, and I still miss them. The stark realization when I look beside their gravesite is the bench that has my last name etched with special scripture verses we picked out. In the end, I am reminded each time I visit the grave site death is inevitable.
This is why faith matters to me! I want to evangelize and share the good news, and I can do this today with you. It is no accident you tuned in to this episode today, even if you are a subscriber to my podcast. God wants to do an amazing work in your life. You may have felt called for some time, and that is wonderful. It begins with you understanding your faith walk and why it matters so that you can explain it to someone else in this hurting world.
Before we can evangelize, we must be disciplined. I heard an exorcist share on YouTube that the main reason that we are attacked by the evil one is because we lack elementary spiritual discipline. He talks about how most people can’t tell themselves no. They do not have self control in their lives to continually say no to temptation. I think I talked about this video, and some of you may be curious and want to listen on your own. Even if you are not Catholic, it is worth giving the video the 55 minutes it takes to watch. The video, which is the second of a three-part series, this one is titled Obstacles to Prayer and Holiness here
As we live our lives, we must give evidence to the truth that we are striving for holiness, but holiness only comes with blessings from God. As Christians, faith matters, but so does honesty, integrity, and doing what is right. A friend of mine’s husband was a born-again Christian, he led a men’s Bible Group at breakfast, yet that didn’t stop him from leaving his wife and children for someone else. Faith matters not only in our proclamation of faith, “Jesus I believe in you! I love you! I want to follow your will!” it means dying to self and taking up the daily cross and following Him.
Faith begins with the understanding that Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, came into this world as our Savior, died for our sins, and rose on the third day. He conquered sin and death. He did it for you and for me. That should make us rejoice!
The only place to go is forward. Do not look at the past; look to today and the only place to go is to Jesus. Don’t walk, run! We can become distracted by the things of this world, and to that, we say, “Get behind me, Satan, in the name of Jesus!” By focusing on the eternal, by putting our trust in God, by looking at the good that is in our lives (look carefully, those of you who doubt; it is there), and rejoicing in everything. Remember, everything in our lives does not go unnoticed by the Almighty. God gives us the tools we need for sanctity. Remember that he has armed us (think back at the beginning of this podcast, put on the Armor of God). He has armed and equipped us and it is up to us to allow him to work out the conflicts in our lives so that we can flourish in that peace that surpasses all understanding.
While we should pray, “God give me a new heart!” We read in Ezekiel 11:19 I will give them one[a] heart, and put a new spirit within them; I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh,
A heart that hungers for the Lord, a heart that hungers for righteousness and goodness, a heart that wants to be used by God to minister to this hurting world. Amen! Dear friends, it isn’t easy, but our faith should be the most important thing in our lives. Everything else will pass, but our faith redeems and gives us a chance at everlasting life.
In the next podcast, I will share with you the miracles in the lives of believers today and how we can enjoy the fullness of life as Christians all year long!
The challenge this week is to live out our faith; if we are not sure what we believe, research and think about it! Then, pray and strive today to walk closer to our Lord.
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Today, we witness the visitation of Mary and the Joy of fellowship. Do you need more JOY in your life? Who doesn’t? Advent is the perfect time to receive and share more JOY with others! Mary and Elizabeth will show us how.
Join us today as we travel with Mary 90 miles to the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth. We will drop in on a special meeting of hearts to partake in the delight, the prayer, and the JOY of Fellowship.
The Advent JOY PodcastWelcome to A JOY-Filled Advent Podcast #3, based on my book The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events, and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ. Last week, we heard how God supernaturally begot the Son of God in the Virgin Mary and gave an old woman, Elizabeth, past her time conceiving a child. We discovered any barrenness in life can become a breakthrough! “For nothing is impossible with God!”
Advent JOY in the Hill CountryToday, we travel with Mary down the 90-mile road from Nazareth to the Hill Country of Judea, near Jerusalem. We will drop in on Mary’s visit to her old cousin Elizabeth. Both women are expecting, rejoicing over the births to come, and thrilled to see each other. Join the podcast today as we cover these exciting points:
The Visitation – Leaping for JOY (Luke 1: 39-45)* John the Baptist leaps for Joy * Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaims words of JOY. * Mary praises and skips with JOY. * Jesus is always joy-filled—even in the womb!
The JOY of Fellowship – God Knows Our Need (Luke 1: 31-33) Fellowship in the Scriptures is translated from New Testament Greek Koinonia,* occurring 20 times in the New Testament. * Elizabeth brought out Mary’s JOY, and Mary brought out Elizabeth’s JOY. True fellowship strengthens and encourages faith. * Elizabeth praises Mary for believing Gabriel. * The Holy Spirit reveals the presence of Jesus in Mary’s womb to Elizabeth.
The Magnificat – Mary’s Song of Praise (Luke 1: 46-56) Magnificat was the first word in Luke 1: 46 found in St. Jerome’s Latin translation of the Bible (4th-century common language of the people) and it means “my soul magnifies.” * The Magnificat is a canticle – a liturgical song from a Biblical text. * The Magnificat shows Mary’s love for Scripture. She knew the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) well. * The Magnificat* reflects themes from many Old Testament Scriptures – the powerful arm of God, His mercy to all, His justice and faithfulness, and His care for the poor and afflicted (e.g., 1 Samuel 2:1-10 and Psalm 34:2, 35: 9, 103: 17, 107: 9, 132: 11, 138: 6).
Three Months of Sharing Hearts* We can only imagine the comfort Mary and Elizabeth must have been to each other. They talked of the Scriptures to be fulfilled because they knew well the promises regarding the Messiah and the one who would precede Him. They shared the stories about Gabriel as his message had changed each of their lives. They would have known of Gabriel’s former visitations and announcements recorded in Daniel 9.
Advent Application We can respond to these verses of JOY shared between Mary and Elizabeth by 1) Asking God for Advent JOY (He wants to give us His JOY), 2) Rejoicing in God’s goodness, 3) Preserving a quiet time for prayer, and 4) Sharing JOY with others, especially during Advent. God has JOY for YOU.*
Links
Consider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies one of the podcast series, especially this one: A Joy-filled Advent: Journey with the People, Events, and Prayers.
Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Cup of JOY Gathering small group. For information, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from A Joy-filled Advent Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post The Visitation & JOY of Fellowship – A JOY-Filled Advent #3 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Chosen for Divine IntimacyIt was not you who chose me, but I who chose you… – John 15:16
FEARLESS Chapter 3 Chosen for Divine Intimacy. God chose each of us individually out of all the possibilities of people to create, redeem, sanctify, and call into a relationship with himself for all eternity. I remember hearing that there is a one in 400 quadrillion chance for each one of us to be created. Yet, it wasn’t by chance but by the intentional choice of the Lord of all creation. Not only did he choose for us to exist, but to exist within him, and he desires to permeate us with his presence completely. Such an intimate relationship can only be hinted at by the intimacy of marriage.
We are conceived first and foremost in the Holy Trinity and are members of the Holy Family with Jesus as our brother. Anyone who truly knew and understood this would most certainly choose him, and yet he tells us it was rather he who chose us. Our task is to internalize the fact that we are chosen, and the life that results is a life of ever-deepening gratitude and joy.
He longs for us, and with him is where we belong. He is the Prince of Peace, and we are made for Him. As we accept his choice of us and live ever more fully and deeply as members of his family, we experience his reign over us and are permeated by and become instruments of his peace, bringing others more fully into their citizenship in his Kingdom.
This is the starting point, the foundation. He gave it all, even his life and his Holy Spirit, to show us that he will go to any lengths and do all that is necessary to be with us always and forever. Everything else hinges on this foundation, that we were personally selected by he who is all-good, out of his infinite love, that we might be transformed by love and live in union with him.
Every other hope for being chosen pales in comparison to the belonging we have had from the moment of conception. Internalizing and responding to this fact is to be the bottom line of our relationship with him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What do you think when you consider the fact that you don’t have to try to be chosen but that you are already chosen by God?
- How do you feel knowing that bringing the possibility of you to reality was a distinct and intentional choice of God?
- Does knowing this change how you see yourself? God? Others? Life? If so, how?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Creator of all things and my Creator thank you for choosing to bring me into existence to share your life and love for all eternity. Please give me the grace never to forget that fact about myself and to relate to others in a way that acknowledges that same dignity. Amen.
Action Step
Put a note on your bathroom mirror to remind you that God has selected you.
Journaling/Further Reflection
Consider what would be different if you lived completely out of the truth that you are God’s choice, and jot down what comes to you.
Scriptures for Meditation
Isaiah 43:1
John 15:16
Romans 8:29-30
Ephesians 1:3-4
The post Chosen for Divine Intimacy appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Jesus Rejoices in the FatherThis is a moment with Scripture reflecting on the Gospel of Luke 10: 21- 24. Let’s set the framework for this reflection. 72 disciples have returned from the mission. Jesus sent them on a mission to every town and place he intended to visit. A mission that sent them like lambs among wolves it sounds like a recipe for failure. Doesn’t it? Instead, they returned rejoicing because even the demons were subject to them when they invoked Jesus’s name. But Jesus tells them to rejoice, not because of the demon subjugation. Rather, rejoice because their names have been written in heaven. Moreover, this is the cause for Jesus’s spontaneous rejoicing and giving praise to the Father in the opening passage of Luke’s gospel. Just who are these 72 disciples? They’re humble souls to whom God has revealed the mysteries of his Kingdom.
In contrast to the trained religious leaders who may be puffed up with pride. From whom God has hidden the mysteries. This reversal is found elsewhere in Scripture. Recall the lowly shepherds to whom the birth of Jesus was first revealed. One would hardly call them wise and learn this great reversal being worked out by God is a reason for Jesus’s joyful praise. Yes, father, he says. Such has been your gracious will. As Christians, we all share in Jesus’s mission by virtue of our baptism. We don’t have to become scholars to bear witness to the Father. Son and Holy Spirit, this happens through the gift of faith. The same gift was given to the 72 disciples. It happens by the way we live our everyday lives. Uniting our love with the love of Jesus, to whom all things have been handed over by his father.
Deacon David Hockwalt was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at magnificat-ministry
Deacon David Hockwalt – A Moment in Scripture Reflection 12.2023
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Loneliness At Christmas ~ Episdoe 282Loneliness can happen at any time of the year, yet loneliness at Christmas seems especially painful. In this podcast we will discuss our role as Christians and how to bring to those in need the joy of the season of light.
Visit Media Angels.com for gifts for your family, especially the Character Planners that help you and your children focus on the importance of developing good habits.
Here are some podcasts you may enjoy.
Loneliness
Connection With Others
Temptation is Real
As I think back on Christmas past, I remember how my father felt after my mother’s passing. Every time there was an event or holiday, he missed her, especially the first time. He was so used to spending time with her and sharing his life that when she was gone, it was as if a piece of him was missing. My neighbor died this summer unexpectedly, and I am certain his widow also feels the pains of firsts, the first Thanksgiving without him, the first Christmas, and more. We are only neighbors, and friends, but when someone has a special place in your life, you will definitely feel the loneliness at Christmas.
In Isaiah 41:10 we read: (Read on air.)
God gives us the strength we need, but we need to ask. How often do we forget to ask? I know I do. In living our lives we can feel lonely even in the midst of people. I think that is why we stay so busy, so we don’t feel loneliness and so that we don’t focus on what is bothering us.
Loneliness At Christmas Can Be A StrugglePsalm 16:11 – (Read on air.)
When we are in a good place with our faith and our Lord, it seems to stem the loneliness. We don’t feel as alone or afraid. We find that joy that surpasses all understanding. Yet at times, we feel as if we are being tested.
In 1 Chronicles 29:17, we read on air.
Loneliness At Christmas UnderstoodThere is no secret formula to combat loneliness at Christmas other than to give our hearts to the Lord. My friend would take her three boys and spend time at the soup kitchen or Church ministries. She did this at Thanksgiving as well as at Christmas. This took place after she was divorced, and she felt that her holiday was different, sad, and lonely. She decided that in giving, we receive, not for the sake of receiving. And she did! She said it was the best holiday and she wished she had done it sooner.
That is truly a gift.
Make me an instrument of your peace is a song as well as a prayer attributed to St. Francis…O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that we are born again to eternal life.
St. Francis gave up his life of wealth to serve the Lord and to serve the poor. We may not all have the opportunity to spend time with the poor this Christmas, but if you can, it is well worth it. Sometimes ministering to our own families and extended families is serving the poor in spirit. Other times they are blessing us with their joy and presence. It takes an effort to travel, especially during the holidays.
Loneliness can be a blessing; it is a pearl of great price. Think about how the Lord Jesus prayed at the garden of Gethsemane and the apostles could not stay awake with him for one hour. I pray in my mind that I am there with him. God, Jesus doesn’t need me, yet we can offer the simple tasks as an offering of our hearts even if it is just in our thoughts.
Matthew 13:44 states (read on air).
Loneliness OvercomeOur loneliness is a struggle, and it is something we may try to overcome, but each in our own way. Finding other like-minded people is helpful. I often see people at church who have lost a loved one join together for the holidays or even after church for coffee. I try to reach out to friends I know who may be struggling. I know they are being social even if they do not feel like it. It is easier to stay home, but putting out the effort is often rewarded.
We can all pray that the Lord uses us to minister to others, whether it is visiting someone without family in a nursing home, serving the needs of the poor, donating to a worthy cause, or buying gifts for those less fortunate. All of these things are small in the scope of our lives, but each one of these things brings us closer to the Lord.
This week the challenge is to pray for those who are struggling and lonely this Christmas as well as other times of the year and to ask the Lord to use us to bring joy to their hearts. Let God be praised now and forever.
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A Joy-Filled Advent The Annunciation- Nothing is Impossible with God
JOY in Nazareth
Welcome to A JOY-filled Advent, Podcast #2. It’s based on my book The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ. Last week we met the Archangel Gabriel, who appeared to Zechariah in the temple after 430 years of silence from heaven. When Zechariah disbelieved his announcement, Gabriel gave him a 9-month silent retreat. This week, we follow Luke 1: 26 to a small town in Galilee, the hometown of Mary and Joseph, to hear another announcement called The Annunciation in the Catholic Church. Join our journey today as we visit Mary, hear of a Savior to be born, and learn that “nothing is impossible with God.”
Another Message from Gabriel (Luke 1: 26-30) The powerful Archangel Gabriel brings the second announcement– this time to a young girl in Nazareth. * This most important heavenly Annunciation comes to a girl in a remote village where you might least expect it to occur. BUT God causes miracles to happen in the most unlikely and even ungodly places when people are open to Him. * The recipient of the Great Annunciation is Mary*, a virgin teenager, engaged to Joseph in the lineage of David, which points to the Old Testament prophesies soon to be fulfilled.
Jesus Name by His Heavenly Father (Luke 1: 31-33) The Baby would be named Jesus, Yeshua in Hebrew and derived from Yahweh – the Most Holy Name of God in the Old Testament. The message is clear: Yahweh God would name His son Yeshua after Himself.* * Truly, Jesus would be the Son of God and fulfill Isaiah 7: 14: Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel (God with us).
Mary’s Fiat (Luke 1: 34-38) “Fiat” is the first word of Luke 1: 38 in the early Latin Bible translation and it means “let it be.” This was Mary’s “YES.” * Mary received the Word of God*, surrendered, and entrusted herself and her life to God’s will. Mary gives us this example of how to seek and accept God’s will: Listen, Dialogue with God, and Surrender.
God’s Power Some may find it hard to believe in the virgin birth. But the virgin birth and incarnation are essential parts of our Christian faith. * The incarnation means God became man, reaching out to mankind. In no other religion does God “become flesh” (John 1: 14), “accept the limitations of humanity,” come to earth to show His love, and then die for the sins of all (Fulton Sheen, 1958, Life of Christ, p. 19). St. Augustine says that when we cannot understand this miracle, “Let us grant that God can do something which we confess we cannot fathom. God is the God of the impossible!” (John Willis, 2002, Teachings of the Church Fathers). * For example, Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli told God he felt barren in his old age and then received a great miracle! * If you are unsure about God’s power to accomplish miracle*s or significant changes in your own life, consider this: If God can supernaturally beget the Son of God in a virgin and give an old woman Elizabeth, past her time of conceiving a child, God can fix the barrenness in your life too. If you feel unproductive or barren, ask the Holy Spirit to come upon you in new ways and to open new doors where least expected. He will give you a breakthrough! “For nothing is impossible with God!”
LinksConsider hosting a weekly one-hour Cup of Joy small group study that accompanies one of the podcast series, especially this one: A Joy-filled Advent: Journey with the People, Events, and Prayers.
Read more on hosting a CUP of JOY Women or Gathering small groups. For information, please email karen@wrapyourselfinjoy.com
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from A Joy-filled Advent Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
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Power OF The Holy Spirit – Fr. Dave PivonkaOne of the struggles we have in the Church today is that we get exactly what we expect. We do not expect much as a people, parish, and community. We do not see the Lord do great things because we do not expect him to. If we open our world, we will see God do amazing remarkable things. We need the Holy Spirit. We would then see things that have been there all along, but we just weren’t aware of it. The Holy Spirit wants us to see a world that is supernatural. A world of power, grace, freedom, and mercy. The Holy Spirit is the one that opens that up. There is lot of anxiety in our world today.
‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.’ Romans 15:3 ‘Hope does not disappoint because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.’ Romans 5:5. Our hope is in God and that can only happen through the power of the Holy Spirit. Because of that we can go through trials and tribulations and not be disappointed. Our question to God then changes from ‘why is this happening’ to ‘what do you want me to see?’
Fr. Pivonka is a well-known Catholic speaker, author, Priest, and President. He received his undergraduate degree in 1989 from Franciscan University and has since earned a master’s in theology a doctorate in education and an executive juris doctorate. He was ordained in 1996 and after holding various positions at Franciscan University of Steubenville was elected President of the University in May of 2019. Fr. Dave has served as Director of Post- Novitiate Formation for Franciscans and hosts the Wild Goose video series on the Holy Spirit, a documentary on St Francis of Assisi and Metanoia. Fr. Dave is the author of 7 books including Living Metanoia and Finding Freedom and Fulfillment in Christ. He is the host of Franciscan University Presents and host a popular pod cast, They That Hope. Fr. Dave believes that God is laying a foundation for revival in our Church and that Franciscan University is being invited to be the center of that revival.
As we too pray for revival in our church, let us place ourselves in the presences of our Heavenly Father, inviting the Holy Spirit to Enter In and allow Him to heal us, fill us and use us as only He can.
Enter In was given at the 17th Magnificat International Leaders Conference in Pittsburgh, PA in October 2023.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
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The Book of Nehemiah has reassured us that prayer changes everything, that every obstacle can be overcome, and that every false accusation can lead to persistence, more prayer, and joyous victory. With Nehemiah, we declare: God is with us! God is for us! God is at work! God has a plan that changes everything! We can confidently exclaim: The JOY of the LORD is my strength! (Nehemiah 8: 14).
The post NEHEMIAH & Rebuilding HOPE #11 – Nehemiah Recaps, “The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength.” appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Christian Care ~ Episode 268 As Christians, we care for many things, but we also have a responsibility. Christian care means more than thinking about a situation and praying; it means taking action when possible. In this podcast, we will discuss the responsibility of being a Christian and the blessings that come with this knowledge. […]
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Finding Healing for Holiness and Healthy Relationships Finding Healing for Holiness and Healthy Relationships. We all share a call to holiness, as the Catechism of the Catholic Church points out, and the Scriptural basis for this comes from Ephesians 1:4, where we hear that we were chosen in Jesus by the Father before the world […]
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Banter Need a bit of a laugh? Listen to my pretend banter about my haircut and eyebrows! Saintly Wisdom on Happiness “The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for all that he, in his goodness, sends to us day after day.” […]
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Testimony of Dr. Carol Razza Dr. Carol Razza shares her empowering testimony with wisdom and humor. Her lively and animated delivery leads you through a time of transformation to be rid of the lies we tell ourselves to a place of peace and freedom as a child of God and an heir to the kingdom. […]
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Adding praise and thanksgiving to your prayer can increase your faith, lift your spirit, help you recall God’s goodness, encourage you in hard tasks, and add much more joy to your life.
The post NEHEMIAH & Rebuilding HOPE #10 – Do You Need an Uplift? Nehemiah Calls All Praisers! appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Are You Awake? ~ Episode 267 Spiritual awareness is a blessing, and the question, “Are you awake,” comes in part as a nod in that direction and toward the world we live in. How are you awake, and what precautions are you taking to notice what the Lord brings to mind? In this episode, we […]
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Let’s begin with a prayer Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, All things are passing away: God never changes. Patience obtains all things Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices. St. Teresa of Avila God is Faithful “If we are faithless, he remains […]
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Teaching Reflection from Fr. Pat Crowley Teaching Reflection from Fr. Pat Crowley. Magnificat is about witness, sharing their stories. Our story brings us deeper into the mystery of God’s love. As we ask the Blessed Mother for guidance, Mary helps move the freshness of the Spirit manifested in our lives into a deeper intimacy with […]
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Parenting as God Parents Parenting as God Parents. Parenting is a tall order. Not only does it mean forming little minds and souls while keeping little bodies protected and provided for but parents image God. How we relate to little people as parents or in roles of authority becomes how they perceive the Lord. Because […]
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Consider Nehemiah Chapter 9. Do you feel forsaken by God ever? Always remember this: God is ready to forgive. He is gracious, merciful, slow to anger, and abounds in steadfast love. Join us today as Nehemiah says, God will never forsake you. Celebrating God’s Goodness In our last podcast, we joined the Israelites on Rosh […]
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Fill Up Your Spiritual Tank ~ Episode 266 What happens when the well runs dry? We all need to fill up our spiritual tanks; for some, that means more often than others. In this podcast, we will delve into ways to receive abundant joy from the simple pleasures God has in store for us! Thanks […]
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Testimony of Stacey O’Rourke Stacey O’Rourke is a cradle Catholic. She received all her sacraments, but her family were not big church goers. She grew up in a dysfunctional household as both parents were alcoholics. She also became an alcoholic at an early age. This spiraled her into unhealthy relationships and activities and failed marriages. […]
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Joseph in the Old Testament In the story of Joseph, we find an example of forgiveness. Joseph not only forgives his brothers for the wrong they did to him but restores and blesses them. The verses below show a small piece of the story. Scripture ” Joseph prepared his chariot and went up to meet […]
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Testimony of Angela Copenhaver Angela Copenhaver is a Catholic convert. She was raised in Lincoln, Nebraska in a protestant family. Her parents divorced when she was young. As an adult she worked for a delivery company and worked hard to climb the corporate ladder and financial security. She was promoted to management in sales and […]
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Tips for Connection Tips for Connection. Following are some very practical ways you can approach parenting to give both you and your child a sense of predictability and peace. Know that if you are a new parent, these will be easier than if you have not been parenting in this way and make the switch […]
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In our last study, Nehemiah and the Israelites in Jerusalem completed the walls, but the enemies did everything possible to stop the final building thrust. Thanks be to God, Nehemiah through discernment, with constant prayer, speaking the truth and persevering, directed the people to complete the walls and gates in 52 days (v. 7: 15). Now Nehemiah begins the process of restoring the faith of his beloved people. Today, he points us to a spiritual “prayer booth” for rejoicing, Scripture reading and recalling what God had done for us.
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Christian Comfort Zone – Time To Get Out! ~ Episode 265 Do you have a comfort zone as a Christian? Is your faith private? Is it personal? Is it something you do not want to share? If you want more from your faith walk, join Felice for this episode of A Few Minutes with God […]
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Testimony of Pat Higginbotham Pat Higginbotham was a daughter in a military family. She grew up with three sisters; she was the third child. Her father was in the Airforce. They moved around a lot as most military families do but she felt she had one stable home in Lost Creek, W. Virginia, her mother’s […]
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Parenting for Connection Parenting for Connection. Connection to God, self, and others is fundamentally important to our physical, emotional, and spiritual health and well-being. Without it, we seek to self-medicate the emptiness through all sorts of things that will never satisfy and will only further the disconnection. So, when we consider the task of parenting […]
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Pray, Speak the Truth & Persevere Always Look to Nehemiah. Are you facing slander? Have mistruths been spoken about you? You can overcome the discouragement and discern the lies, deception, and diversion around you! Nehemiah will show you how. Join the podcast today as he says to pray, speak the truth, and persevere always. Today […]
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Spiritual Sandpaper – Episode 264 Spiritual sandpaper describes the events that happen in our lives that purify us and make us better than before, yet they are painful. In this episode, Felice shares how this can actually cause spiritual growth if we open our eyes to the possibilities. Visit our sponsor CTCMath.com for all of […]
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In the Beginning… In the very first chapter of Genesis, it tells us that “God said” and the earth was formed. There was listening. How to listen When listening to another person, it is important that we: listen with the intention to understand and respond let go of our own experiences and the need to […]
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Testimony of Michelle Seghers Testimony of Michelle Seghers. Michelle begins her story with a verse from Jeremiah 31:3 “I have loved you with an everlasting love.’ She shares how His everlasting love has been with her throughout her lifetime in the Church, and in her family. God has always been faithful to her. Michelle grew […]
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Diligence Overtakes Sloth Diligence Overtakes Sloth. One of the cardinal or key virtues, that of fortitude, helps us in the forming of the virtue of diligence. Being diligent means being consistently oriented toward the good. It helps us take the desire and aspiration for good and make it practical and real. The strength (fortitude) when […]
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A Reflection on Sending Out Laborers A Reflection on Sending out Laborers Matt. 9:32-38 By Deacon David Hockwalt. What does the heart of God look like? Jesus is the perfect embodiment of God’s heart. Matthew tells us his heart was moved with pity as he surveyed the crowds before him. He had compassion that sprang […]
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Consider Nehemiah. Do you get angry easily? Do you get riled up? Nehemiah shows us to step back before acting. It never works to respond with emotions. In Chapter 5, during their rebuilding, the people face opposition from within their ranks. It seems that if the opposition doesn’t hit us from without, it comes from […]
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Nehemiah asks, Are you led by anger? Do you get riled up easily? Nehemiah shows us to step back before acting. It never works to respond with emotions. In Chapter 5, during their rebuilding, the people face opposition from within their ranks. It seems that if opposition doesn’t hit us from without, it comes from […]
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New Eyes of Faith – Episode 263 As a Christian, it is important to practice our faith. But what does your faith look like? The new eyes of faith is an awakening. In this episode, we explore the meaning of faith and how we sometimes deceive ourselves. Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math – visit […]
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Growing Charity to Uproot Greed Growing Charity to Uproot Greed. Charity is the virtue that wars against greed. Generosity can be used interchangeably with the word charity. Perhaps charity has become so overused that we can forget the real meaning. We give to charities which do good to those in need and are called to […]
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Do you suddenly face opposition when you are making progress in a daunting task? Do you respond with insult for insult when ridiculed? In Nehemiah Chapter 4, Nehemiah and the people face criticism, ridicule, name-calling, and insults as they try to repair the burned-down walls and broken gates. This can happen to any of us. Join the podcast today as Nehemiah shows us the best approach for success when it comes to overcoming opposition and discouragement.
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Solomons Downfall – Episode 262 Solomon’s Downfall. In the Bible, there are definite lessons to learn but one for the ages is King Solomon’s Downfall. What can we learn and how do we apply this to our lives today? Visit CTC Math for more information about a wonderful Math curriculum for students from grade school […]
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Keaton Douglas Meet Keaton Douglas, who wrote The Road to Hope: Responding to the Crisis of Addiction with Lindsay Schlegel, a book that Keaton hopes gets into the hands of all who want to be an apostle. Who is Keaton Douglas? She is the Executive Director of the I THIRST Initiative, a Mission of the […]
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Testimony of Shannon Austin Testimony of Shannon Austin. Shannon focuses on three areas of her life, how life shaped her, how she helped and hindered God’s plan for her and how God showed up even when she didn’t. Shannon grew up in Louisiana. She was an only child from a broken home. Her father came […]
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Precious Blood of Jesus Precious Blood of Jesus. July is the month we take to honor and reflect on the power of the Precious Blood of Jesus. I’m thinking how awesome Jesus’ death and resurrection victory is and that we take Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday to try to break that […]
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The Choices We Make A Reflection on The Choices We Make Matt. 7:12-14 By Deacon David Hockwalt The Choices We Make. This gospel is about choices. The choice to live a life of their pagan occupiers or according to Jewish law and faith. They faced dilemmas whether to pay the Roman tax or be tied […]
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Nehemiah calls perfumers! All teams need workers from all walks of life with a heartfelt desire to build—even beyond their known skills. The “perfume makers” provide sweet-smelling assistance, even though their hands are soft and they are not seasoned builders. Join us today as Nehemiah reveals team-making skills and appoints the perfume makers. Become a perfume-maker! If you feel lacking in giftings, become a perfume maker and set your mind to building anyway. Bring the sweetness of God’s spirit and a sweet attitude of prayer to every stinky situation.
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Mirror of Scripture Episode 261 When was the last time you read a passage in the Bible, and it was as if the Lord was showing you a mirror image? I call that the Mirror of Scripture! In this episode, we’ll look at scripture verses that highlight areas that need our attention. Visit our sponsor […]
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Testimony of Heather King Heather King is a Los Angeles based writer, blogger, and speaker. Heather was raised on the coast of New Hampshire. She is the oldest of eight children from a Protestant family. She was considered the intelligent one with lots of drive. She is an ex-lawyer, a contemplative and Catholic convert. Heather […]
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End your day with prayer Echo the psalmist as he says, Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me,and lead me in the way everlasting. […]
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Meekness, Uprooting Anger Meekness, Uprooting Anger. Growing in virtue is what happens when our conscience becomes more and more penetrated by the truth that the Lord perfectly provides for and protects us within the loving boundaries of how He has called us to live. We needn’t struggle and strive to earn a sense of value. […]
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Spirit of Trust – Episode 261 How do you trust in what you can not see? That is true faith, a spirit of trust. In this episode, we discuss how trusting in the Lord is a surefire way to have peace and tranquility in our lives. Thanks to our sponsor, CTCMath.com – check out their […]
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Road Trip In some ways, I can’t believe we really did it; 4000 miles in 9 days. But then again, we are about living NOT lukewarm!!!!! I’m glad we went. We rested, we talked, and we drank great beers. We spent time in prayer before, during, and after. At the Shrine, we were able to […]
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Testimony of Fr. Sidney Speaks Fr. Sidney Speaks grew up in Baltimore, MD. He was the firstborn of a large family with a devout Catholic mother and an alcoholic father. He first heard the call to the priesthood while doing his chores vacuuming at the age of 11. He ignored the call as he pursued […]
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Friends in High Places Friends in High Places. Sometimes in life, we can feel quite lonely for reasons that might be physical, emotional, or spiritual. Perhaps we are living far away from support, need to travel a lot, or perhaps we recently lost a loved one. We can feel emotionally alone, as though no one […]
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Parents As First Responders ~ Episode 37 Parents are first responders to the needs of their children, but they are also spiritual first responders. They are people who are ready to share the good news with others. Today I have a special guest, Lt. Tommy Neiman who has spent his life literally rescuing others as […]
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Spiritual First Responder ~ Episode 260 What is your spiritual first responder? Where do you go in times of stress, worry, or hardship? This episode explores those tools and a healthy way to deal with stress. Visit MediaAngels.com, today’s sponsor. Driving on busy roads, we often hear emergency vehicles with blaring horns and flashing lights, […]
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Do you need favor? Let Nehemiah encourage you! When you pray for favor, you are asking God for grace to help solve a difficult problem or turn a bad situation around. After supplication, God gave Nehemiah favor with the king and the king blessed him with all that he asked. Join us today to discover how to trust God more and ask for favor when approaching challenges.
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The Question What is going on in your soul as you go about your daily life? That is your interior disposition! Your attitude as you go about your life. Do you look at the chores and mundane pieces and tasks of your life as burdens? No one is paying attention, thankful, or offering accolades. You […]
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Testimony of Casey Sprehe Testimony of Casey Sprehe. Casey’s first experience of the Holy Spirit was as a teenager while attending a Retreat. She knew something was very different as she observed the attendees praising God. She discovered it was having a relationship with our Lord. Casey encountered Christ as never before and returned home […]
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Freedom from Anxiety Freedom from Anxiety. Unfortunately, anxiety has become a very common symptom and causes many people great suffering. Since the pandemic of Covid, those using anti-anxiety medications has reportedly increased by 34%. It is something that can really steal our peace and become disabling. Let’s look at it from a whole person perspective […]
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Nehemiah teaches about interceding for a people and a nation. In Nehemiah 1, he demonstrates powerful intercession and all five types of prayer. His prayer starts the process of bringing great solutions to great difficulties and a broken nation.
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Spiritual Cleaning ~ Episode 259 When was the last time you did spiritual housecleaning? In this episode, we will explore why many of us struggle daily and the unnecessary burdens we carry around. Many of these can easily be trashed. Thanks to Media Angels, the sponsor of today’s episode. You can visit MediaAngels.com for books […]
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A New Book As always, learning about a new book is a joy and even more so when the author is a friend! Maria Gallagher has written another book, Mercy’s Power, published by Marian Press. It is a guidebook of how to bring the corporal works of mercy into your life to help us recreate […]
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Testimony of Amy Del Valle Testimony of Amy Del Valle. Amy Del Valle grew up in New York in a culturally Jewish home. She was the oldest of three children and had a younger sister and brother. Family life was very dysfunctional. Her parents divorced when she was 8 yrs. old and there was a […]
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Model of Honesty A Model of Honesty, Authenticity, and Courage – St. Margaret of Cortona Model of Honesty. St Margaret of Cortona lived back in the 1200s. Her mother died when she was a young child, and her father remarried a woman who was cruel to Margaret. When she was 17 years old, she left […]
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Question about Paying Taxes A Moment in Scripture- The Question about Paying Taxes Mk. 12:13-17 By Deacon David Hockwalt Question about Paying Taxes. This scripture shows the greatness of Jesus. Two enemies join forces: the Herodians and the Pharisees. They try to entrap Jesus by setting up a lose-lose situation. Taxes were a hot button […]
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Do you have messy situations in your life? The Book Nehemiah will remind you of God’s presence and power to transform brokenness and disappointment. You can overcome the fear and discouragement. Join our podcast today and allow Nehemiah to teach you to walk with God in new hope and joy. The Book of Nehemiah speaks to our faith today, even though it was written almost 2500 years ago. It will inspire you and your family in times of discouragement, trouble or worry in the face of life’s difficulties. Nehemiah reminds us all how God’s presence and power are with us and can transform lives.
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Sharing Faith ~ Episode 258 Does sharing your faith scare you? Do you share your faith in a personal way? Or do you fear what others will say? In this podcast, we will explore ways to share your faith and how your testimony may impact the lives of others. For some of us, sharing our […]
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Waiting can be Difficult I stink at waiting, especially when waiting for a decision to be made. Living in that in-between space, neither here nor there, can seem like a waste of time. We want to get onto the next thing. But sometimes, we are asked to wait, to have some patience. Liminal Space Liminal […]
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Testimony of Ashley Stevens Ashley Stevens was born outside of Philadelphia, PA. She was raised as a Methodist and was baptized at age 7. At age 9, her family moved to Oakridge, TN. Ashley’s young years were filled with sports activities and the family rarely had time for church. When Ashley entered high school, she […]
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Humility Month Celebrate June – Humility Month! Humility Month. In 1675, Jesus appeared to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, revealed His Sacred Heart, and asked for a feast celebrating His Heart in June. There are so many things in the image of the Sacred Heart for each one of us to receive personally and to imitate. […]
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Meaningful Faith ~ Episode 257 Has your faith matured through the years to hit the realm of “meaningful faith?” In this podcast, we discuss how our faith needs to be our own and for the right reasons. Visit the Media Angels website and check out the One More Child book and A Few Minutes with […]
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Mercy Seat – Episode 256We know that God is merciful, and his mercy endures forever, but what is God’s mercy seat and what can we learn to apply to our lives?
Thanks to our sponsor, CTCMath.com, and an innovative math curriculum for all K-12, you can check out more information at CTC Math.
I love the idea of a mercy seat; what do you picture in your mind? In scripture, we read that the mercy seat was the cover or a lid of the ark of the covenant. This is discussed in Exodus. I’m sure you know the story, but Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, as they were jealous of him. This led to a tremendous journey for the people of Israel. Joseph was favored by the Pharaoh in Egypt, but after generations they both died. The next pharaoh wasn’t as kind, especially as the Lord blessed the people. Pharaoh put the people into slavery, and they cried out to the Lord in prayer. Many, many years later, they were delivered by Moses.
The Lord gave Moses direction for the people, but they were entrenched in sin. After all the years of living in Egypt even though they were slaves, they dressed, ate, and acted like the Egyptians, even worshipping false gods. Moses was directed to bring the people to the promised land, “flowing with milk and honey.” However, the people were stubborn, and even while Moses was up on the mountain speaking to the Lord the people were making a grave image to worship.
These people were in need of direction and mercy! Therefore it was the Lord himself, through Moses that directed them. He couldn’t leave it to anyone else, he made a covenant with Abraham, this was a promise to his family and his descendants, and this promise is unbreakable. The words received by Moses from the Lord were inscribed on stone tablets that were then put into a chest. This was, in essence, a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites because they were heading toward the promised land, but in essence, wandering in the wilderness.
The Lord gave specific instructions on how to fabricate the ark of the covenant in Exodus 25, then we read in the following verses Exodus 25:17-22 (Read on air.)
What does it mean when the Lord says, “There I will meet with you and from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the covenant, I will deliver to you all my commands for the Israelites.” – so, how did the Lord do this? He did it in a visible way. There was a cloud, a symbol of God’s Divine presence which the people saw. It was a cloud during the day and a column of fire at night.
It was a place of worship and the ark contained many precious things. In Hebrews 9:3-5 we read. (Read on air.)
In the ark of the covenant – the chest or container were the two stone tablets inscribed with the Word of God – we know them as the 10 commandments. There was also the law, the way the people were to govern, worship, and other useful information. When we read the passages in scripture they are detailed and ways the people could stay healthy and avoid disease. There were other objects as well, the golden pot of manna – this was the food provided to the Israelites in the desert. There was also Aaron’s rod we can read about that in Numbers 17:1-13. These objects were sacred. Later it would be placed in the temple in Jerusalem, where it was placed in an inner room called the Holy of Holies. And, the ark was made and inlaid with gold. Gold was precious then as it is now. Gold is considered the most precious of currency and has value. In this way so is God. God is not a commodity but he is above all else, above all of the other false gods invented by people and God was and is to be revered above all else.
So what was the mercy seat? Just as the gold cover or lid of the Ark of the Covenant covered the treasures within, the mercy seat covered or protected the people of Israel from the judgment of the Law. It brought to the forefront that God was a God of mercy, slow to anger, and yet righteous.
It is difficult to think about the hardships the people went through in the desert, and some were condemned to die for disobedience. It is difficult with our Western sensibilities to hear about this death and destruction when we read the Bible. Yet, the people who were freed from slavery, who saw a miracle of the parting of the Red Sea, who saw manna come down from the sky to feed them, and doves at night — these people were rebellious. These people continued to complain. These people were made to wander in a desert when there was a direct route into the promised land because of their disobedience and rebellion. In fact, we learn that they will not enter the promised land, however, their descendants will. Even Moses who has been steadfast sins and is kept from this land.
It’s as if God has a Plan A – to bless us and we opt for Plan B or C because of our free will decisions and lack of faith. Just like the people in the desert, God wants us, his people to flourish and God wants to bless his people. But just like the people of Israel, often we have so much we need to unlearn. The people lived in Egypt and took on their ways, we live in basically Sodom and Gomora, our world is turned upside down and we have to focus on what is important, true, and right.
From their time in Egypt, the Israelites learned about all types of sacrifice. This was a people that had participated in pagan worship which included child and human sacrifice. God was teaching them that sin could not go uncorrected and that there had to be atonement for sins if there was a violation of God’s laws as written in the 10 Commandments. They had a day of Atonement where their sins would be presented before the Lord and an animal sacrificed along with very specific things they did as a result. Instead of humans, God taught them animal sacrifices for the atonement of sins. These sacrifices were a way for sin to be removed. This was a foreshadowing of Christ, his atonement as the perfect sacrifice for our sins, the removal of sin, and therefore mercy. Christ shed His blood for us.
Today in Judaism the Day of Atonement known as Yom Kippur is the holiest day. It is a time of repentance, and there is a day-long fast and intensive prayers.
In Christianity, we look at Christ as love and mercy. This ties the Old and New Covenant together in an amazing way. The covering of sin was a visible sign to the Israelites, and for us this sign is Christ. This is the mercy seat of God! In Romans, Paul was telling the people in Romans 3:24-25 (Read on air.)
Just like the mercy seat was the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, Jesus is the covering for sin. It is our faith and our belief that we are set free. God is mercy but He is always just. There cannot be mercy without justice and there cannot be justice without mercy.
John 8:31-32 (Read on air.)
Shouldn’t we want to leave sin behind? I’ve been praying a prayer each evening and these are the words I pray that resonate with me, “You are the strength and the light of my soul in you, I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve you by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against you.”
How I desire this to keep myself from sin, to keep myself pure and holy, but I can do none of this without the Lord, frequent attendance of Mass and communion, and frequent prayer and time to listen to the Lord. The prayer continues with a plea to the Lord to help me to follow His gracious inspirations and to keep me free from sin. 1 John 4:10 states (Read on air.)
If we follow the Lord we will receive mercy, but this comes with justice. The sacrifice of Christ was merciful for humankind. Without His ultimate sacrifice, we would be in eternal sin and damnation. This week pray that the Lord keeps you from sin, pray for that connection to God in such a real and tangible way as to help us avoid those things that are harmful to our immortal souls. Amen, and may the Lord continue to bless you, pray for me as I pray for you.
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Growing Chastity and Uprooting LustGrowing Chastity and Uprooting Lust. We are bombarded with lustful images daily. Billboards, commercials, song lyrics, and the like are often filled with impurity. It can be difficult to live lives of purity and chastity. Yet, it is that to which we are called. Why does God ask that of us? It’s because He is very invested in our freedom! He was from the beginning when He created us with free will, and even when man failed and turned away from Him, He sent Jesus to restore our freedom.
Sometimes, we can get the idea that lust is true freedom, but that is a lie. Lust is a counterfeit attempt at the connection that leads us to compulsive and even addictive behavior. Ted Bundy is a notorious serial killer who said that it was his early childhood exposure to pornography that led him into deeper and deeper bondage. Ultimately, the desire to possess and use another human being for his own gratification led him to kill many people.
Chastity is expressed differently according to our state in life. If we are married, it is being faithful to our spouse and sexuality, being oriented toward self-gift, and proper reception of the other’s gift of self. On the contrary, lust is about taking rather than giving or receiving. It is disordered and is about pleasure for the sake of pleasure.
How are we supposed to find the strength to live in such purity when we are surrounded by the sexually impure and when our culture is so accepting of lust as though it is normal or even good? It is too much for us to do on our own strength and gratefully, we don’t have to. Instead, when we turn the desire for intimacy and connection to the Lord and accept the infinite power of His love for us which is far more than we could hope for or imagine, we are filled to overflowing.
That might be difficult to believe if you have become immersed in impurity. Instead of hiding in shame, expose your need to the Lord, who already knows and loves you more than you can believe. Let Him know your need and use the occasions of temptations as reminders to you to ask for His help. He will hear your prayer.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Growing Gratitude, KindnessUprooting Envy
Growing Gratitude Kindness. Envy is the vice of wanting something that isn’t mine. Which is actually wanting something contrary to what the Lord knows will lead me to the joy, peace, and contentment He has for me. When we don’t stay rooted and grounded in love like St. Paul tells us to in his letter to the Ephesians, we can quickly get off track and end up in such self-defeating and relationship-disrupting behavior.
King David gave into envy when he wanted Uriah’s wife, Bathsheba, for his own. He didn’t value her rightly by lusting for her and certainly didn’t value Uriah properly by sending him to the front lines in battle so that he would be killed. Before that, he failed to stay rooted in God’s love for him and the knowledge that the same God who protected him from Goliath when he was a shepherd and provided for him to be an anointed king was providing for him. Instead, he went outside of God’s boundaries seeking to provide for himself.
Another example from Scripture is the older brother in the parable of the prodigal son. He was so envious of what his brother had received and may stand to receive in the future that he refused to go inside and celebrate his brother’s return. Because of his envy, he lacked gratitude for the safe return of his brother to a relationship with himself and his father. That lack of gratitude led to a lack of kindness towards his brother and father. We can see why gratitude and kindness go together as virtues.
The Lord has so made us for acts of virtue that our bodies respond positively to them. In a very real sense, the wages of sin are death, and virtue leads to life. When we show kindness, receive kindness, or even witness kindness, oxytocin (one of the four feel-good hormones that foster love, trust, and friendship) is released in our bodies. Being grateful feels good. It brings light, peace, and joy. Being envious feels bad. Our bodies cry out to tell us what we are and aren’t made for.
If you struggle with envy, take some time to praise and thank the Lord for the revelation of His beauty and power in whatever it is you value. This will get you back to being grounded in the Lord’s love and valuing things rightly as flowing from Him for His glory.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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What is Ordinary Time?This is one of the seasons in the Church’s Liturgical Year. We have various liturgical seasons, just as there are natural seasons. Ordinary time happens two times a year, and now it is beginning again, from May 29 until December 2. For more information, you can read this post.
On to the Acrostic!Here is one word for each letter of “ordinary” that gives us something to consider about Ordinary Time.
Opportunity – to take stock; grow in our spiritual life; to renew
Renewal – this can be a time of renewing our faith, certain practices
Dig – take a look and learn about our faith, dig into a specific book of the Bible, a saint, new prayer practice
Immediate – focus on now, not the next event, but what is happening now
Needed – we need this time to maintain, to be on an even keel
Accounting – what is working, what isn’t in your spiritual life
Rest – rest, simply rest in a way that restores and rejuvenates you
Yearning – to deeply desire more in your spiritual life
Make your own Acrostic and leave it in the comments for us to see! Consider how you will use this Ordinary Time to grow in your spiritual life. And remember, I’m happy to connect with you and would love for your to sign up for the Live Not Lukewarm newsletter. It comes with a video series on prayer and scripture!
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Testimony of Fr. Joseph DroesslerTestimony of Fr. Joseph Droessler. Fr. Joseph Droessler is a diocesan priest of Orange, well known for his charism of preaching and many other gifts of the Holy Spirit. He is a native of Orange County and the seventh of eight children. His priestly formation includes years of study at Mt. Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD, and Mt. Angel Benedictine Abbey and Seminary in Oregon.
He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Orange in 1995. Fr, Joseph has a great love for Church history, particularly as seen through the eyes of her saints. His unique testimony will portray the Lord’s pursuit of him and his resistance and then surrender.
After one year in the college seminary, he left the seminary for a full decade; a year before finishing a degree from Loyola Law School, he attended a St. Ignatius retreat. During this retreat, he heard the hound of heaven calling him to the priesthood again. He knew the appointed time had come to respond. Forgoing a law career, he entered immediately into formation to the priestly vocation that had been in his heart since first grade.
He is well known for his charism of preaching and devotion to the Blessed Mother. A special priestly work of his is to enkindle in others a great love of the Catholic Church with the fullness of her magisterial teachings, tradition, and sacred liturgy. Listening to this chosen priest will enkindle your heart in faith, hope, and love.
To learn more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us magnificat-ministry
Magnificat Store. Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend, and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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God is Calling YouThoughts and Pondering
Did God choose Me? By Mary Wilson
God is Calling You. Mary Wilson shares a scripture from John 15:16. “You did not choose me; I chose you and appointed you to go bear fruit that will remain.” He chose you for a purpose with a plan in mind. He chose you specifically for what he calls you to do. He is willing to work with us right where we are and get us to a point where we are a better version of ourselves. We must be willing to surrender and live a righteous life. Everything God has planned depends on our ‘Yes’ every step of the way. We need to be nourished in order to grow, and God prunes us. An example of the pruning process is given so that we produce good fruit that will last for His kingdom. Don’t we all want what God has for us? We need to pray for direction so that we can be the Christ-like person God needs us to be. Everything God does is for our salvation and for those he puts in our path.
Mary Wilson presently serves on the (CST) Central Service Team of the Magnificat Ministry as Secretary.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend, and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Prayer Text – Episode 255When was the last time someone asked you to pray? Have you considered sending them a prayer text? In this podcast, we discuss the importance of prayer and how to use technology to pray now.
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When was the last time someone asked you to pray? Or when was the last time you asked someone to pray for you? If someone asks us to pray, we say, “Of course, I’ll pray for you,” or “Yes, count on my prayers.” Or, we say something similar. I would then often forget to pray for the person and feel guilty. Then when I prayed, I reminded the Lord (as if he needed reminding!) that there is no time with God – God is timeless, so even if my prayers were late God still heard them!
That is when I decided I would pray right then. I would pray when talking to someone in person if they asked for prayer, I would place my hand on their arm and pray. If I received a phone call for a prayer request, I’d ask the person if I could pray for them right then.
Then with technology, I found that people were sending texts and asking for prayers. I finally had my solution. I would pray now via a prayer text. After all, if someone is sending me a text and asking for prayer, it is important to do it right away! It helped me to remember to pray for this person throughout the day and their special need, as well as to let them know that I was serious about praying and that we do it right then.
We don’t always have the words we need when it’s time to pray, so sometimes it takes pausing and asking the Lord for his help and asking, “Lord, how should I pray? You know the situation, my God, so please provide.”
Sometimes the request is an easy one, such as praying for me. I feel like I’m getting sick! That is a prayer request I receive from one of my children who teaches and is surrounded by children. So we can easily text something like, “Dear Lord Jesus, I praise You, and I thank You. I ask you to bless my daughter and fill her with your peace, love, and joy. I ask a blessing upon her, and I ask for good health and a swift recovery, keep her from getting sick, and I pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.”
Scripture reminds us of the necessity of prayer in Mathew 7:6-8 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Jesus is the healer; He is the one who gives if we ask, not as we want it but as He wills it. And that is why it is important to remember to pray for God’s will. This can be difficult for us because, as we’ve discussed many times on this podcast, we often pray, Lord, I need this and that, or please do this and then. That is praying “my will” instead of “Lord, please grant this if it is your will or Lord, grant this if it is for the good of my eternal soul.
I love to see others pray via text in special situations. For example, when my son was in a particularly tough training in the military, I set up a Michaels’s Prayer Warriors text message group. Each day I would send out a text prayer, a reminder so that we could all keep him in our prayers, and I did this for each day he was gone for a total of 62 days of training. They kept us focused and united as a family, And I believe it brought us closer. My son claims that it was through our prayers that he was able to pass this rigorous course the first time instead of having to recycle or be dropped from the course like some of his friends and acquaintances. He also prayed, knowing he had our support at home.
We are a family of God with God at our helm. We must be that example to others to pray unceasingly. 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 states, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
This is a perfect way to pray! Another way to use a prayer text is to do this online. If you are on social media such as Facebook, people often post prayer requests, and usually, other people will like the post or give them a heart or do some other kind of little graphic to let them know that they care and are praying. But how much more powerful if we each take the time and type out a specific prayer for them? It helps us read prayers that others post and unite us all in prayer.
Obviously, it takes practice if you’re not used to praying extemporaneously, but it is similar to just speaking to the Lord. I always like to start with praising and thanking God because he is worthy of our praise. Psalm 145: 1-2 I will exalt you, my God, the King, and I will bless your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever.
If you take a few minutes to ask the Lord how He wants you to pray, just start by quietly (or aloud) praising Him and lifting up the situation or need to him. You can ask the Lord specifically for help, such as “Dear Lord, I don’t have the words for the situation, so please give me the words you would like me to use,” or “Lord, please come into this prayer and help me to pray your perfect will.”
Then I listen, and whatever the Lord has put on my heart to pray for, I pray. Typically God gives us a thought of something we should pray for specifically. Sometimes you will be inspired to pray a specific way. I remember one time praying for my son for a severe headache; I felt like he was suffering. I had no way of knowing if he had a headache or not. We just pray in faith it doesn’t matter if we find the results; what matters is that we are faithful to pray.
We are called to pray — in prayer and supplication. Phillippians 4:6-7 we read, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
I love that! The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
What better way to use technology for the good than to use the tools we have at our fingertips? Most people today have smartphones with text capability. How wonderful to receive a text from my friend saying they are praying for me, especially when I need those prayers. And if you think of someone and they keep coming to mind, maybe they need your prayers. This has happened to me in the past, so now I try to reach out when I think of a person who needs or may need prayer. By sending them a prayer via text, they know I care. Who doesn’t like to get a prayer or be prayed for?
Your challenge this week is to use technology for the good – whether on a text message, social media, or even a phone call and pray for someone in need.
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Testimony of Lu CorteseTestimony of Lu Coetese. Lu is the founder and Executive Director of St. Ignatius Retreat Association, St. Joseph Catholic Radio, and IHS Productions. What started 25 years ago as an at-home apostolate is now a worldwide radio and evangelization ministry heard on EWTN Radio and Catholic radio affiliates throughout the country and abroad.
Lu is the Executive Producer of the Children’s Rosary CD, a Catholic school fund-raising project; my Freedom to Choose, which is an abortion counseling CD and Magnificat Proclaims, a radio broadcast geared toward women. Lu is a former Catholic Women of the Year nominee for the Diocese of Orange, CA. She is a recipient of the Cardinal Mindszenty Freedom Award. Lu Cortese is proud to be the mother of two wonderful sons and grandmother of ten. St. Joseph Radio has an office, bookstore, and evangelization center in St. Charles, MO.
Lu shares how she got into radio. Media was dictating what Catholics believed, and Lu wanted to communicate to the world the true teaching of the Catholic Church. She had no real plan but was prepared to do the Lord’s will in all things through prayer and discernment.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us .magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend, and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Keeping God’s Word ~ Episode 254How can we keep God’s word close to us? In this podcast, we explore ancient traditions still practiced by those of the Orthodox Jewish faith today and how we can learn from these practices.
Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math and the curriculum receiving rave reviews. Check out the sponsor of this week’s episode.
When reading the Bible, we often hear of the Lord saying over and over again, especially to the Israelites, to keep his WORD next to their hearts and never to forget what the Lord has done for us. The Israelites were taken out of bondage as slaves, yet they had much to learn as they wandered in the desert. And, if you read Exodus and Numbers, you will find they were an ungrateful nation!
We would like to think we would be different, but as we both know, that is impossible without God’s grace. As we live our lives, we do not want to be forgotten. We want to leave a legacy for our family. When people talk about us, we want it to be with fondness and consideration. You can think about this for a moment. What is an accomplishment you do not want to forget or want others to forget?
Throughout salvation history, God has and continues to save His people. It was clear when he took the Israelites to the promised land. The Jewish culture still remembers this and keeps a sign of God’s word on their doorposts, sometimes even in their homes. I was fascinated when reading about the Mezuzah, [MA-ZOO-ZA ], and I looked it up. The word itself means doorposts. It is a small scroll with a piece of parchment paper handwritten by an expert scribe. Some are very basic, and others are quite elaborate. On the outside are Hebrew letters. The Mezuzah is believed to be an extra spiritual protection to the family that places one at the door. When the Jewish person enters or exits their home, they kiss their fingers and then place them on the mezuzah and recite – May God keep my going out and my coming in from now on and ever more – which is from Psalm 12:18
The foundational text of the Holy Scriptures – Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21 begins with Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, and the Lord is One. This is the command that God gave the Israelites. “And you shall write these words upon the doorposts of your house and upon your city gates.”
It is a beautiful verse; let me read it in its entirety. (read on air) Deuteronomy 6:4-9
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
Why don’t we, as Christians, have these on our doorposts? Why are we not continuing this tradition? Well, one of the reasons is Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecy of the Old Testament, yet, the Old Testament has many things we ascribe to – for example, teaching our Children diligently, putting the words of God in our hearts, and more. We have Bibles in our homes, often multiple Bibles. I have two different apps on my phone where I can read scripture. In reading the Bible, we consider and ponder the words and place them in our hearts, both the Old and New Testaments.
Think about your home, car, apparel, and maybe even a religious symbol like a cross. These are outward reminders of our faith. The Bible verse plaques in my home or on the doors to our bedroom. Where do you see signs of God’s word in your home?
I love the idea of a mezuzah, and I believe we must never forget; we take so much for granted as Christians. Consider how you can improve on your faith journey and keep God’s Word in your heart. What can you do?
We read in Psalms 119:105-106
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws.
By our Baptism, we have been made sons and daughters of God; He is the way, the truth, and the life. John 14:4-6 we read (read on air). Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
At times in our lives, when we are lost, and we, like Thomas, do not know where we are going, we can remember this passage. Through Jesus is everlasting life. While God took the Israelites out of bondage and slavery physically and spiritually, the same applies to us today. With our faith in Christ, he takes us out of slavery from sin and into the life everlasting. We must follow that path less traveled, but it is lit with the true light of righteousness.
We may believe that the Old Testament is obsolete and it does not apply to us today. We think it is written for a people long ago. It does apply to us today because, just like any history lesson, if we do not learn from past sins, the sins of our forefathers, we will continue to make the same mistakes. The sins of Adam and Eve, of Moses being a humble servant but in his anger hitting the rock twice and not setting foot in the promised land, in countless events during the time in the desert. Making an idol to worship while Moses was speaking with God for direction for the people. Why go back into sin and slavery when you left it behind?
Because we are stubborn people, we want what we want. We think what we do is not “that bad,” especially if we compare ourselves to others. Friends, I am sure there is some truth to that, but shouldn’t we strive to do the best we can each day? To keep God’s word in our hearts and yearn for time with Him. Our relationships hinge on our relationship with God first. Everything else will fall into place!
This week, consider all the ways you can keep God’s word in your hearts and mind.
I pray that you are reminded of all God has done for you and that you continue to put God’s Word in your heart and never forget! May God be praised, now and forever!
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Micro ChangesSmall changes can help us change our habits. Changing our habits leads us to better outcomes. We can break big changes or shifts into small segments and increase over time. We do not have to do it all at once. This can set us up for failure, rather than success.
You are the average of the five habits you repaet most. James Clear
Scripture The Ten Commandments are all great foundations for good habits! Read Exodus 20 for God’s instructions.
Put God first, don’t swear, go to Church on Sundays, honor your parents, be faithful, don’t lie – all good habits for living your life in way that honors God and others, and yourself.
The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones; and the person who is dishonest in very small matters is also dishonest in great ones. Luke 16:10
Day by DayThe song, If You Want Your Dream to Be…(San Damiano Song) By Donovan really fits well here, so please excuse the 70s throwback to my youth. This is not the scene I describe in the podcast, but the song itself.
If you want your dream to be, build it slow and surely. Small beginnings, greater ends, heartfelt work grows purely.
If you want to live life free, take your time, go slowly. Do few things but do them well, simple joys are holy.
Day by day, stone by stone, build your secret slowly. Day by day, you’ll grow too, you’ll know heaven’s glory.
If you want your dream to be, build it slow and surely. Small beginnings, greater ends, heartfelt work grows purely. If you want to live life free, take your time go slowly.
In prayer, ask God where and how you can be better.
Would you like to discuss how to be better? Interested in joining us for the Pentecost Novena? Get in touch with me here.
The post Better, with God appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Testimony of Sharon LeeTestimony of Sharon Lee. Sharon Lee, a former Ms. San Diego County runner-up to Ms. California, left showbusiness at the height of her success to pursue a higher purpose. Believing that she had found the true way to serve God through channeled spirits and the new age bible known as ‘The Course in Miracles,’ she had intended to teach in a new and enlightened way to be loving in this popular ‘ anything goes’ philosophies. But by 1999, disillusioned with the devastation these teachings so often produced, she realized they were deceptive. Sharon’s diligent search for truth began to lead her home.
When tragedy struck her family in the year 2000, her conversion was complete. Sharon saw clearly the true teachings of the bible playing out amid the tragic events surrounding her. With courageous honesty, Sharon reveals how her new age influence may have unwittingly played a part in her family’s tragedy. She shares how God’s saving word brought us out of spiritual darkness and into the light of truth. Sharon’s talk is titled, ‘How to do Love.’ It is intended to be a helpful and hopeful message of repentance and triumph over tragedy.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
Thank you for being a part of our network of listeners; we appreciate you!
Share your favorite podcast with a friend, and be sure to rate us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback means a lot.
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Power of Motherhood ~ Episode 36The power of motherhood can not be denied, and behind every powerful person in our world is a Mom. In this episode, we will discuss the powerful legacy moms leave.
Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com – a wonderful math curriculum for kids. Check out the website for more information. Sponsorships keep us on the air.
Do you have a special group of friends? I do, and these women keep me on track. The place faith and family before all us – and they encourage and bless others in friendship. These are the women I prayed for in a time when I felt the world pulling me by virtue of my degree into the workforce. Yet these women encouraged me in the virtue and power of motherhood. They let me express what I knew in my heart that women are the caregivers, welcoming and should care for their children.
The power of Motherhood is in self-giving, and fulfilment of what God has called you to do. Behind every powerful corporation, president, and other powerful “leader” is a mother. By virtue of giving life, this person is responsible for another. I still miss my mother who has been gone over twenty years, yet her impact on my life is stunning.
My mother was the first example of powerful motherhood – she encouraged me to set my goals high. You want to be an artist? Go paint. Do it. You want to become a teacher? Go for it. Whatever I wanted to do she encouraged me. We worked hard together as a family in my parent’s Italian Restaurant. The hours were long but when we had an opportunity we vacationed together as well. Our parents always gave us opportunities they didn’t have – and we do that for our own children as well.
Mothers are wonderful and work so hard, yet they are often unappreciated, neglected and misunderstood! When I complained to my mom being tired with little kids or about my husband she would say, “God put you together as a family, you make the best of it, pray and it will all work out. Love your children and your husband as God loves you.” Wow so much wisdom. She didn’t give into my complaining, but she acknowledged it and she encouraged me toward greatness.
If you don’t have a cheerleader that is there to encourage you to greatness, let me take this opportunity to do this for you. You can take charge of your life today, invest in your family and you will find yourself so much stronger and happier. You can do this and you are not alone. Even if you live in the other corner of the world away from me, know you have a kindred spirit. We women are powerful and the voices of the outside world want to squelch this, but in you heart know that you are enough and your worth is not in what others think.
In the midst of adversity we have a choice to sink down or to rise up, and I pray that you rise up to the challenge. My family, my children and my husband—our relationships became stronger when we placed our faith in God first as the foundation of our lives. Mothers work behind the scenes for the most part and no one will ever see the wonderful things you do – that is outside of your family, and often they don’t appreciate the sacrifice or effort. Of course we want to be appreciated but, this side of heaven we may not see the fruits of our efforts. The power of womanhood is in the idea that we are more than we think we are because we were created in the image of God. Our soul and spirit are greater than what this world has for us, yet we are precious and special in the eyes of God – get right with God and all else will fall into place. God gives us the grace to do this.
Relationships matter. A relationship with the Almighty, then the relationship with your spouse. Often we place our kids first and then wonder why we are stressed and can’t handle another day. But, without a good foundation of two, it makes raising children more difficult. It is hard to see the bigger picture. Once the kids are grown, many relationships fall apart. Invest in your spouse and work together as a team. Easier said than done (ask me how I know).
In life nothing in life is perfect, so quit expecting it in your motherhood and how you parent. We can’t always make our kids happy – in fact, only God can make a person happy. So, do your best, parent with love, and let go of the rest.
Motherhood never stops. As I began to write this episode my daughter was in the hospital waiting for an emergency C-section (her first one, but her ninth child). My granddaughter’s 16th birthday is a day away, and my daughter was concerned, from her hospital bed, that she wouldn’t be there for Samantha’s birthday! This is what we do, we mothers. On the other hand, I worry for my daughter, but I will ensure my granddaughter is pampered and spoiled on her birthday! The good news is that while I delayed the re-launch of this podcast, my ninth grandchild was born and not out of NICU yet, but praise God for the treatment he is receiving. We moms keep on going, because we must.
I pray that if you are discouraged or feel abandoned, you realize I AM HERE FOR YOU! Come over to our Facebook podcast family page, send me an email or know I am praying for you. Believe me when I say while it is nice to receive the accolades of others, you must be confident in the knowledge that God has you in the palm of His hand, even if it doesn’t feel that way!
We don’t need to be praised for being uniquely feminine, but by virtue, that is what we are. We can look at the Bible, which is a blessing for us, and look to the model of all Christian women everywhere, and that is Mary. She is the mother of our Savior but more than that, because of her example, her “Yes,” in the midst of adversity we can learn so much from her. She stayed quietly in the background yet when it came time for her to be strong, visit her cousin Elizabeth and we read the words in Scripture, “My soul magnifies the Lord,” we can see that this is no simple peasant girl on the inside. God infilled and inspired her. Luke 1:46-55
We read in Proverbs 31:28, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, he praises her.”
And the 10 commandments – Exodus 20:12 “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.”
We as women are destined to greatness, and by virtue of motherhood, whether you have given birth, are a parent by marriage or adoption, or care for children in some way through volunteering. You, my friend, are called to a greater purpose. If you strive to live a virtuous life you will be rewarded by the grace to persevere.
Moms tend to be the strong ones in the family, yet as a mother, I encourage my husband to understand the power of fatherhood. (Listen to the podcast on the topic here.) Homes are the strongest when both parents are united.
Overall the destiny of motherhood is real.
The Destiny of Motherhood – Real-Life Application
- Love begins with a relationship. First, start with a strong relationship with God, then your spouse, and then your kids. This is building the kingdom of God in your own home.
- Our culture pushes women as objects rather than role models. My favorite clothing store had the motto, “Clothing for the role model.”
- Moms are the power behind the family; they are the ones everyone goes to in times of need.
- Look to your family and not out the window at others; the grass looks greener, but it never is (septic tank reference).
- Lastly, focus on home – your kids are with you for a short while. I know everyone says this, and when you are in the midst of dirty diapers up at all hours of the night and have your hands full with sick children, it can’t go fast enough. But you are leaving a legacy.
You, as a mother, are destined for greatness. There is power in motherhood, which comes from within, but it needs to be filled and encouraged. I want to share a book with you, One More Child, that I wrote a few years ago and is free on Kindle if you have an unlimited subscription, but it is free for a short time now in celebration of Mother’s Day.
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Growing Humility Uprooting PrideGrowing Humility Uprooting Pride. Scripture tells us to choose the way of humility rather than pride. It tells us that God favors the humble and humbles the proud. Jesus even came to give us an example to follow. His whole earthly life was, from first to last, a wondrous showcase of profound humility. He emptied Himself and took on our humanity, was born in humble circumstances to poor parents, associated with the lowly, washed feet, and was buried in a borrowed grave. We are told that is the example that we are to follow. Yet, if we rely on our own ability to act with humility, we immediately fall into pride. So, how is this to happen?
Fortunately, the Holy Spirit is the Sanctifier! We are called to respond to God’s grace, not to be the source. When the Lord told Peter to put his nets out on the other side after he’d fished all night and caught nothing, it required an initial act of humility to respond to a carpenter’s advice about fishing. Yet, when His grace-filled Peter’s nets to the point of tearing with 153 fish, he grew in humility, even falling at the Lord’s feet and asking Him to depart, confessing his own sinfulness.
When we experience suffering, powerlessness, and insults, we can turn in fear to reliance upon ourselves, but that will ultimately lead to anxiety, shame, and feelings of disconnection from the Lord, ourselves, and others. That only fuels the vicious cycle as our fear increases and around and around we go. However, if we respond to suffering by sending our roots more deeply into God’s love for us, it is readily apparent that He is the one to rely on, our hearts are lifted in gratitude to Him, and we experience a sense of intimacy with Him.
We can have confidence – literally being ‘with faith’ when that faith is in Him rather than ourselves, knowing that His power is able to do anything, even though frail instruments like ourselves. He is all-powerful and loves us more deeply than we can ever imagine.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Are you looking for encouragement and JOY? Esther will help you celebrate God’s goodness. When you recall and celebrate what God has done, your faith is strengthened, you are inspired to trust Him more, and you are encouraged with hope. For Esther and all Jewish families, the annual Feast of Purim celebration helps them recall that God delivered them and will continue to deliver them. Join our podcast today and be encouraged to joyously celebrate God’s goodness and faithfulness as we review the many turnarounds in the Book of Esther.
Reversals ContinueApproximately two months and ten days after the first decree was issued, Mordecai wrote the second edict, which empowered the Jewish people to defend themselves against their enemies. The turnarounds were astounding! Today we share at least 15 reversals and cover these points:
No Plundering (Esther 9: 1-17) To plunder means to steal goods during a war for your profit. * The Jews remembered the violation of God’s commands in their heritage (1 Samuel 15) and acted in* holy retribution for self-defense but took no plunder for their profit.
The Feast of Purim Established Forever (Esther 9: 18 – 10: 3) Mordecai and Esther declare two days of celebration in an official decree to be remembered forever. * Purim means “lots” or dice which is what Haman used to pick the date for the annihilation. * The Book of Esther (also called the Megillah) is read twice during the Feast (the date in March is based on the Hebrew calendar). Children “boo and hiss” and throw popcorn when they hear Haman’s name. * Today, families bring gifts to the poor, give gifts to each other, and eat fruit-filled triangular cookies called Hamantashens* [haa·muhn·taa·shn] or Haman’s Ears. They are delicious! You can pick up a recipe card on my website WRAPYourselfinJOY.com or in my book.
Banquets and Feasts in Esther* The Book of Esther shows us joy; Esther begins with a banquet and ends with a feast. * Four pairs of feasts celebrate the turnarounds and triumphs of God.
The Dream, Memory, and Plot (Esther 10 – 16). Esther 10 -16 or deuterocanonical additions A – F suggest Mordecai remembers a Dream.* It foretold God’s deliverance relating to the main events in Esther plus the chapters add a few details to the occurrences.
The Hero of the Book of Esther is GOD* God used the beautiful Esther, caused the sleeplessness of the king, brought down Haman, exalted Mordecai, and gave the Jewish people victory over their enemies. * God showed tremendous power on behalf of his people. Almost like fireworks, the reversals came quickly and spectacularly, fifteen in all.
Remembering God’s Goodness* The Feast of Purim, still celebrated yearly in the Jewish tradition, helps Jewish families remember God has delivered them and will continue to deliver them. * Psalm 77 calls us all to remember God’s goodness.
Personal Reflection1. Do you set aside time to remember, joyously celebrate and thank God for what He has done for you? 2. Do you call upon God for creative solutions or turnarounds when problems arise? 3. Are you encouraging others that God intervenes in history when his people seek him with prayer, repentance, and fasting?
New Podcast SeriesJoin my podcast this summer, Ruth – Finding JOY in Tough Times: God’s Purpose for Every Age. If you would like to host a weekly one-hour “Cup of Joy Women” study on Ruth with your friends, email me: at HeartofJesusPublishing@gmail.com for free materials that accompany the podcast and get you started.
Links You can download Bookmarks (and recipe card) from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY*
The post Esther & Turnaround JOY #10 – Celebrating God’s Goodness & Purim appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Faith Minutes ~ Episode 253Healthy prayer habits can be faith minutes; in other words, making the most of our time. We see the effects of spending time with God, but we typically put off prayer until we have more time. Let’s put some wasted time to good use with tips to get you started.
Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com a wonderful math program for school-aged children. Thanks to our sponsors!
Today I heard a sermon, and in it, the deacon said, “God has extravagant love for us.” I love that imagery—almost more love than we can handle. In this love, we should feel secure and safe; it is the place we go when we sin and ask for forgiveness and when we want to thank the Lord. It also reminds us to use the time we have to give God praise and worship.
In past podcasts, I’ve discussed many ways we can do this, for example, in reading a scripture verse or memorizing scripture. We can have faith minutes while listening to music or praying for a friend. It is, in essence, the time we spend that brings to mind God, but in a deeper or more focused way.
Using my time wisely gives me a sense of accomplishment and contentment. I feel I’ve succeeded in my day when I can look back and see the things that are completed. And the first thing is prayer. What makes you feel contentment or success in your prayer life? I know prayer is more than a checkoff point on a list, but shouldn’t it be just as important? For example, we make time at some point to figure out how we will spend the day. When will you shop, cook, do laundry, or clean? When will you eat dinner, or when will you spend time with family or friends? Shouldn’t you make the same use of our time for God?
You can often judge whether you need more time with God by how you feel. Do you feel empty or unfulfilled? We fill up our days with so many activities it is difficult to figure this out at times, but one way is to think about how you pray. Are you always asking?
Asking God in Prayer:
- God, I need this…
- God, can you please…
- God, can you help me…
- God, can you let this…(or don’t let this) happen?
- God, do you hear me?!
I felt a sense I was doing that in my prayer time, and I changed my prayers to this…
Asking God’s Will in Prayer
- God, I need this…if it is Your will.
- God, can you please…if it is Your will.
- God, can you help me…if it is Your will.
- God, can you let this…(or don’t let this) happen if it is Your will?
- God, let your will be done.
Our faith minutes can be what we make them; at the red light, we can praise the Lord. “Thank you, Jesus, you are good and worthy of all praise.” We can praise God at the grocery store, standing in line, or at the post office. What are those minutes when we wait that we can put under the Lordship of God?
This Sunday, our Pastor talked about waking up at night and praying the following, “Jesus, I trust in You. Jesus, I trust in You. Jesus, I Trust in You.” And I thought, wow, this is a prayer minute!
A few minutes with God can look different for each of us, but the essence of prayer is conversation and relationship. Conversation with God and a relationship with the Almighty that begins with respect at its foundation. Sometimes we read Scripture verses and have no idea what they mean, especially in the Old Testament. But here is a wonderful scripture that sums up this podcast, Psalms 20:1-5 (Read on air.) This is called the Psalm of David.
David had many failings in his life, and we have a first-hand seat when we read about it in the Old Testament, but one thing that recurs with David is asking for forgiveness with the thought of moving forward and away from sin. If prayer can help us do this in our lives, I consider it a win!
We are told if we believe, we will be saved, but we can pray in our unbelief at times of weakness! Hebrews 11:6 “And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
We were created to serve the Almighty, and as the deacon said, “God has extravagant love for us.” Try to outgive God, praise, and worship Him without thinking of anything in return. That is how the Lord loves us without requiring or expecting anything in return, but how can we not give praise to the One who loves us without reserve?
This week our challenge is to find those faith minutes in our life where we take the time to pray and open our hearts to blessings or where our faith is renewed, and we fill overflowing with God’s love for us! I pray this for you this week; may you be blessed!
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Testimony of Annette BarberTestimony of Annette Barber. Annette was born into an Orthodox Jewish family. She was the oldest of five children, the little mother of the family. Her parents were very loving. She grew up in Iowa. Her grandparents lived with them. Her grandfather gave her a blessing when she was three years old that she would be a blessing to God and to her family. Annette loved being Jewish. Her family suffered a lot of persecution from Catholics.
As a teenager, she had a lot of questions about life and her faith. She felt so inadequate. She met her future husband at an art school, and he was a Roman Catholic. After she married Tom and had a son, she felt her life crumbling. Feeling she was a failure as a wife and mother, she had a nervous breakdown and contemplated suicide. God sovereignly spoke to her, and the next day, she began to read the New Testament Gospels. She cried out to Father God. She immediately committed her life to Christ, and the miracles began to happen. She was born to be a Catholic, and God’s grace was constantly calling her throughout her life. Listen as she shares her story with humor and enthusiasm.
She founded two Magnificat Chapters and was the Coordinator of a Chapter just outside of Chicago and a Regional Team member.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store. Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
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For this last episode of the series on Hope, we turn to God’s Word. His word guides and sustains us like nothing else. I’ve chosen three passages to ponder and I highly recommend you read the entire passage, not just the one verse to get the full meaning.
The Verses
He set me free in the open; he rescued me because he loves me. Psalm 18:20
Say to the fearful of heart: Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; With divine recompense he comes to save you. Isaiah 34:4
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers,nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
What is God telling us?He loves us. And in that love, there is the certain hope that he saves us, protects us, and is close to us. In Isaiah when it says that God comes with divine recompense, this means that our restoration will be beyond our expectations. It is divine and what GOd gives is always more than we expect.In Romans, St. Paul reminds us that we cannot be separated from he love of God in Christ Jesus.There is our HOPE!!!!! And, to quote a priest’s homily, Hope has a name. It is Jesus Christ.I encourage you to pray with Psalm 18, Isaiah 35, and Romans 8:31-39. From those passages, choose at least one verse that reminds you to have hope.Learn 4 Ways to Pray with Scripture and join the Live Not Lukewarm community!The post Scriptures of Hope appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Growing Virtue and Uprooting ViceGrowing Virtue and Uprooting Vice. For the longest time, I would bristle when I would hear people talking about growing virtue and rooting out vice because so many times it sounded like something they were engineering. I’m thoroughly convinced that growing in holiness is something I’m completely incapable of on my own, and I can easily get myself tied in a knot if I try.
I remember the Lord telling me once in prayer when pondering such a thing, “I don’t need your treatment plan.” A therapist creates a treatment plan to work toward health with a client. The Lord was letting me know in not so many words that He had a far better idea of what growth I needed and how to accomplish it. It put me back in the spot of receiving from the Lord, which is a far better spot to be. The Holy Spirit is the Sanctifier. I’m not.
As we dig into the concepts of connection: 1. that we are chosen by the God of all creation to exist here now and are made to spend eternity with Him, 2. known more intimately by Him than we could ever know ourselves, 3. valued so totally by He who emptied Himself to redeem us and manifest the Father’s love for us, and 4. protected and provided for by the God of all creation, we are filled with such a sense of love, security, stability, and belonging that far surpasses anything we could ever hope for or imagine. It is exactly that deep and abiding unearned love that flowers into a virtue when responded to. If we try to do it on our own, it is an exercise in futility or even frustration. If we do have any success, we can so easily end up being proud of our humility.
It is Jesus who makes us into a gift to the Father by the action of the Holy Spirit. Of course, we are called to collaborate with that grace. We must receive it first. Regardless of if we are male or female, the soul is primarily receptive. The Lord is the Bridegroom and is the initiator. In receiving not just His love, but He who is Love, and responding in love to His love, we move from vice to virtue.
Let’s receive Him, His love, and take on His mind and heart of compassion towards ourselves; then, He will naturally flow through us to others.
May the Lord give you peace!
- Margaret
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Creative Solutions for Esther & Her PeopleDo you need some creative solutions for your life? Today, the Book of Esther will inspire you with more reversals and some creative remedies—all part of God’s answer to prayer. It may look like there is NO way out, but God working behind the scenes can always give a perfect solution. The turnarounds in Esther are uplifting and become so evident through a second edict that many Persians watching Esther and the nation’s deliverance expressed a desire for conversion.
In this podcast, we will cover the following points.
Mordecai Authorized to Write a Second Edict (Esther 8: 3-8)* Mordecai not only acquired Haman’s wealth and property but also his position. The king gave him his signet ring making him the second most powerful man in Persia. * However, there was still unfinished business! If Haman’s first edict issued in the king’s name was not overturned, all Jews would still be killed. Legally, a king’s edict was irrevocable. * For this second time, Esther appeared before the king, and using gentle leadership asked for Haman’s decree to be revoked. * The king had given Mordecai his signet ring allowing Mordecai to write whatever he pleased.
Turnarounds: Jewish People Empowered (Esther 8: 9-10, 13-17 & 16: 15-23[E])Two months and ten days after Haman issued the first edict, Mordecai summoned the king’s secretaries and wrote a second edict that counteracted Haman’s edict, empowering the Jews to defend themselves. At least six more turnarounds transpired:
- Haman‘s edict was written and dispatched to kill the Jews (3: 13-15) The TURNAROUND (8: 10-14): Mordecai’s edict was sealed and dispatched to give the Jews authority to attack those who would attack them.
- Haman‘s edict becomes the law (3: 14) The TURNAROUND (8: 10-14): Mordecai’s writ becomes a decree that all must obey.
- Mordecai mourns in sackcloth, and ashes (4: 1). The TURNAROUND (8: 15): Mordecai wears royal robes of blue and white, a crown, and a mantle.
- Mordecai wails in disgrace at the king’s gate (4: 2). The TURNAROUND (8: 15): Mordecai was honored as the whole city shouted and rejoiced.
- The Jews mourn in sackcloth and ashes with fasting (4: 3). The TURNAROUND (8: 16): They celebrate a time of gladness, joy, and honor with a royal festival and holiday.
- The Jews were weak and dispersed in the culture (3: 8). The TURNAROUND (8: 17): The turnarounds brought about such fear of the Jews that many Persians converted or said they were Jews.
Personal ReflectionDo you need creative solutions and more turnarounds? Don’t give up. Ask our Lord to show you creative solutions for your impossible situations. Invite the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and your ears to what you don’t yet see. Remember God loves reversals and His solutions are always the best solutions and they will bring JOY!! Principles from Esther to help guide you in difficult times might include:
- When God defeats your enemies, they are vanquished.
- Assemble with others for increased strength to defeat foes.
- God can give gladness, joy, and honor to replace sadness, darkness, and despair.
- When people observe reversals and empowerment on your behalf, it could lead to turnarounds, change of heart or conversions.
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY*
The post Esther & Turnaround JOY #9 – Creative Solutions and MORE Turnarounds appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Penny From Heaven ~ Episode 252When you find a penny, what do you do? I call it a gift, a penny from heaven. It is something little, often ignored and stepped over but valued nonetheless. In this episode, Felice shares her finds and treasures that are inspirations from the Lord.
Thanks to our sponsor, this curriculum is for kids of all ages. Visit CTCMath.com, a math curriculum from the comfort of your home with self-paced lessons. This is one not to miss. Share this with a friend, and we appreciate CTC math.
What do you do when you see a penny lying on the ground? Most of us walk over it and ignore the coin. We do this for many reasons, and all of them are valid. It is an insignificant amount; it is dirty, we don’t want to bend down to pick it up, and so on.
I was right there with you for quite some time. But then something changed. I decided that each penny signified a gift from God. While it may hold little value in the monetary sense, it is, after all, the smallest coin we have; it represents the gifts that God has in store for me. Each penny is a blessing; each penny is a reminder that God knows me and sees me. He sees all of me, and I am important in His eyes.
Do you see a penny from heaven as a blessing?This is one of those podcasts where I wish we were together because I imagine some of you are like me; you stop and pick up that penny or that coin. You recognize it for what it is – not for the monetary value, but for the gift. It is a blessing, you happened upon it, and it has value in your eyes.
It reminds me of the widow’s mite, and we read about it in Luke 21:1-4 [Read on air.]
Just as the widow gave her savings, what was described in her poverty, to the Lord, I, too, set aside this money for the Lord. I have areas throughout my home set up like little prayer corners and plaques proclaiming scripture verses, and basically, some have called my home a mini-shrine. It’s not, but it is all a matter of perspective. Walking by a sign or a prayer corner reminds me to pray or consider what the Lord has done for me. One particular shelf above my computer has a small depiction of Jesus and Joseph. Jesus is seated on a bench, animated with his hand outstretched, and Joseph listens to him in rapt attention. The workbench and work are briefly forgotten as Joseph is focused on the Lord. I set up a small container where I place any pennies I find. I feel that these gifts are given to me, but then I can turn around and donate it back. After some time, these coins add up, and I donate them to charity.
This is a visual sign of an invisible truth. Faith is invisible but has such an impact on our lives. I know some people think that having a statue, a cross, or even a picture depicting a religious scene is idolatry which the old testament warns us about. And, if I had a statue of Baal or Budda, I would agree with you, but I don’t.
I believe in the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob, the lineage of David and Jesus, the true Lord and Messiah. My God is a God of infinite love and mercy. I want reminders of Bible verses and religious scenes.
Maybe picking up pennies seems silly to you. But it is a small gesture and reminds me about so things that are spiritually important. My shortlist would include the following:
- A reminder not to take anything in life for granted.
- Acknowledgment that even a penny can symbolize something greater
- The understanding that value is in the eyes of the beholder
- Remembering that the value placed by material things in our world is nothing compared to that of heaven
- A reminder not to ignore the simple things in my life
Maybe your list looks different, and I have a much longer list, but the purpose here is to give you the overall idea–which is looking at your day, each day, and seeing the gift that God has for you. No matter what happens, we can turn to the Lord and thank Him. What is that penny you have stepped over and ignored in your life? What is it that seems insignificant but holds bigger value?
I feel blessed in many ways, not because I live in a castle, am royalty, or am a multi-billionaire. I am blessed because my eyes have been opened like Saul on the road to Damascus, and the Lord has called me by name.
In Acts 9:1-20 We read the entire account of Saul – but here is the first part (Read on air).
We later read in the following verses that Ananais also receives a vision from the Lord, and he says, “Here I am, Lord.” The Lord tells him specifically where to go and that he will find Saul of Tarsus. Ananias knows how he is – Saul has been harming the Christians in Jerusalem, and he reminds the Lord of this. Let me stop here – doesn’t that strike you as ironic? Here is a man with a vision from God; he is conversing with the Lord, yet he is reminding him of something that the Lord already knows!
God is so patient with us, isn’t he?
The Lord says to him, in verses 15-16 (Read on air.)
I am sure Ananias was fearful, but he went, laid hands on him, saying verses 17-20 (Read On Air.)
Saul thought he was doing the right thing, he thought he was doing the will of God, but God showed him that he wasn’t and purged him into the three days of darkness. It was a false belief – which makes me think, what false beliefs do I harbor that I need to dispel? Is it simple, like the value of finding a coin on the ground, or is it deeper in understanding that the God we serve is loving and kind but also righteous?
God restores our belief daily if we let him. Your challenge this week is to look at those little things as gifts from heaven, whether it is a penny found or something more!
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Who is Catherine of Siena?Born in 1347, Catherine was a 3rd Order Dominican. She left for us The Dialogue, which is a conversation between Catherine and Giod while she was in ecstasy. It was transcribed by her secretaries as Catherine spoke.
Catherine died in 1380 in Rome. In 1461 she was canonized by Pope Pius II and later named a Doctor of the Chruch by Pope POaul VI. She was the first layperson to be given that title.
Quotes from The Dialogue
God to Catherine:
I never fail those who never fail in thier hope. I provide for them as a kind compassionate Father.
The devil is not able to resist yoyur humle hope in My goodness.
I wish souls to hope in my mercy at the pioint of death…During thier life Iuse this sweet rick with them, makining them hope greatly in My mercy.
Catherine :
Put your hope decisively in God and not in this mortal life. I beg you, as ransomed servants, to set your desirte and your soul’s affection intently on your Savior who has ransomed you.
Hope & Mercy“But the soul, exercising herself in virtue, begins to lose her fear, knowing that fear alone is not sufficient to give her Eternal LIfe, as I have already told thee when speaking of the second stage of the soul. And so she proceeds, with love, to know herself and My goodness in her, and begins to hope in My mercy in which her heart feels joy. Sorrow for her grief, mingled with the joy of her hope in My mercy, causes her eye to weep, which tears issue from the very fountain of her heart.” God to Catherine (and us)
When you feel you are losing hope, say this brief prayer, an aspiration: “God, my hope is in You!”
Learn 4 Ways to Pray with Scripture or continue the conversation here.
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Freedom from Pornography Part 2Interview with Steve Pokorny
Freedom from Pornography Part 2 with Steve Pokorny, founder of Freedom Coaching and author of Redeemed Vision: Setting the Blind Free from the Pornified Culture, sat down with me to finish our discussion. Make sure you check out Part 1 from last week to hear how Steve himself ended up addicted to pornography. It’s amazing how the Lord uses those who have struggled and suffered to minister to the very people who are struggling the way they once did. He, indeed, is the Redeemer! Find Steve’s site at Freedom-Coaching.net.
He lost his father and mother to cancer, so he was desperate to learn how to pray. He began to have a relationship with the Lord but hadn’t yet opened to Him the area of pornography. He moved in with his aunt and uncle. He was highly involved in school but didn’t feel known for who he really was. He was living in a sexual silence because he wasn’t being educated on human sexuality. His identity was being chipped away at by his addiction to porn.
Steve highly recommends the document Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality. It’s only by living in the truth that we are set free. He was in the seminary in Cleveland, OH, for four years and still didn’t receive proper healthy sexual formation.
Steve met a girl he really came to care about, and his love was unrequited. He tried to cope with the apparent rejection by way of pornography. He discerned out of seminary, taught for a year, and then ended up at the Franciscan University of Steubenville. The Lord broke into his life at a Festival of Praise at FUS. He was coming to know the Lord’s love and his identity as God’s son. The Father’s love broke in and changed his desire to lust after women to want to serve them. He ended up backsliding and wondering if it that freedom had been a mirage. He ended up finding Theology of the Body but living with the struggle towards porn.
Steve shared that he went through a week of intensive trauma therapy with me and that through the experience, the Lord set him free from the guilt and shame he was carrying and from the addiction to pornography.
No matter your struggles, the Lord can set you free and redeem the pain for your good and His glory. There is nothing beyond His reach.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Image: Esther reveals Haman’s plot to the King by Jan Lievens, 1623
Do you need reversals in your life? Let Esther encourage you. God loves reversals!
Three ReversalsToday in our podcast, we encounter three reversals in Chapter Seven of the Book of Esther. This is God’s providence bringing dramatic changes in circumstances in response to the prayers of His people. It can happen again and it can happen in your life! Join us today as we cover these points:
God’s Intervention* When King Ahasuerus could not sleep, he reads his chronicles and discovers that Mordecai’s service had never been rewarded. * The king asks Haman what can be done to the man whom the king delights to honor, Haman replies, the honored person should wear the king’s clothes, ride the king’s horse, and be proclaimed for service throughout the streets.
A Peripety* Haman hated Mordecai so he is humiliated when the king tells him to do those very things for Mordecai. * It is a peripety – a great reversal of circumstances or turnaround of intentions written in heaven. * When Haman told his friends and wife Zeresh about the Mordecai incident, they warned him saying: “If Mordecai, before whom you have begun to fall, is of the Jewish people, you will not prevail against him but will surely fall before him.”
God Reverses Evil (Esther 7: 1-8)* Esther dishes up sweet words to the King. * She knew when it was NOT time to speak and when it was time to speak her request to the king. * She used the exact words from the edict so that the king knew he was hearing the truth.
Persian Culture* In Persian culture, + Diners ate at a table while reclining on a couch. + Men could not come within seven steps of a woman who was in the king’s charge or harem. * Haman came close to Esther’s couch to beg for mercy – he had overstepped his bounds by 7 feet. * To the king, he was assaulting Esther. So, he had a face cloth put on the Haman. * In the Persian culture, a facecloth covers an enemy of the king so the king would not have to look upon the one he condemned.
The Lord Loves Reversals (Esther 7: 9 – 8: 2)* Harbona, one of the king’s chief consultants, appears to know of Haman’s hatred for the Jews and of the gallows he built in his backyard to execute Mordecai. He suggests that Haman be hung on his own gallows. * Oh, how the Lord loves reversals! His divine providence reversed three evil events for today. + The gallows built in Haman’s backyard for Mordecai were used instead to hang Haman. + The king’s signet ring, indicating “a second in charge” position, was removed from Haman and given to Mordecai. + Haman’s decree to plunder all the property of the Jews was transposed and the king gave Haman’s property to Queen Esther. * What the study of literature calls peripety—an event that suddenly brings a reversal of fortune and dramatic change in circumstances, is what Christians call a miracle.
Personal Reflection* Romans 15: 4 reminds us: “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.” Let Esther give you hope. * Today, Esther teaches us: + God can reverse the evils around us. + Gentle leadership with prayer and God’s discernment accomplishes much. + Teachers of drama or literature call it a peripety, a reversal. Christians call it a miracle. * What miracle or turnaround do you need today? How will you pray for a turnaround based on what you observed from Esther and Mordecai? + Read Psalm 37: 1-5 and notice all the “do not fret” but instead “trust in the Lord” phrases. He will act as you delight in Him and commit your way to Him. + Ask Jesus to again bring laughter and joy to your life.
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: com. * For all Esther & Turnaround JOY podcasts click here: * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such A Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, And Joy*
The post Esther & Turnaround JOY #8 – Reversals Begin appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Everyday Prayer ~ Episode 251Did you know that our lives can turn into everyday prayer? We can turn a life of struggle into a life of rejoicing with the idea that we can hold onto the joy of a truly spiritual life.
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Years ago a good friend of mine discusses how she prayed all day long. She had nine kids at the time and I could not believe she had time for so much prayer. In my mind the only people who prayed like that were in a convent somewhere and had the time for an immersion of prayer. But us regular folks? Not so much.
We are busy with all of the things we do. I always thought, as a young mom that I would have so much time when my kids grew up, in fact I worried that I would be bored or not know what to do with all of my time. Now I don’t know where my time goes! Sure, I work from home in my own business and I have some time set aside for the projects I want to tackle, but my days are still filled and busy.
Many of us waste time and this can be something we look at and chose to do something about. How can you pray everyday? Easy. As my friend with the houseful of kids says, “Jesus is always on my lips.” She said she’d pray while folding laundry. As she was folding a particular child’s shirt she prayed for them. While cooking dinner, she prayed for her family, while vacuuming, and even she said while going up and down the stairs. She said instead of asking the kids to retrieve something she forgot upstairs she’d use that time to pray.
Living a life of prayer can be a choice. It doesn’t have to be anything drawn out or inspired, but it should be heartfelt. Can we pray by reading the Bible? Yes! Can we pray while listening to praise and worship music in the car? Yes! And we can pray as my friend does while doing laundry.
Prayer, like faith, is a gift and it is a choice. We can love one another as God loves us. John 13:34-35 [Read on air.]
I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”This calls to mind something my mother use to say, “How do you act when no one is watching?” God sees all things, he knows our hearts and he knows our motivations… and when we pray we do it for ourselves since God is God and nothing we can do earns us salvation, nor does it change God. Yes, our salvation should be worked out through fear and trembling in Philippians 2:10-12 we read so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.What I am saying here is that praying changes us. It makes us focus on what is right and just and what is important. We trust in the Lord to hear us and we praise Him in all things. We can live lives that are joyfully worshipping Him or lives that strive only for selfish purposes. This past 40 days of Lent – the days before Easter were probably the hardest but the most fulfilling than any other time of my life. I had a specific intention and was praying daily for it – and the truth is I struggled as I was worrying about my son in the Army Rangers Program (he passed in 62 days without recycling, meaning doing the challenge again which was a miracle). While praying I learned to trust in the Lord, I learned to journal faithfully daily and keep the Lord as the focus of my day.It is amazing how we can focus on what is important when there is a need. But what about the times when there is not an immediate need? Sure we always need prayers for something in our life but when it is not major we tend to slack off.Praying daily is keeping the Lord as the focus, it is concentrating on what we can do for the Lord not what He can do for us. It is sacrifice yes, but it is freedom from slavery and sin, because when we are in His Word, and focused on living lives that are pleasing to the Lord who always sees us at our best and at our worse that we can begin to grow. Divine light is given to us in prayer, it illuminates our minds and our hearts. Praying in our daily lives as we walk the dog or take out the trash is a sign of spiritual growth.Currently, I’m taking care of an elderly dog and that means accidents. I am praising God for the fact that I have tile floors and thanking Him for the blessings of the chore. Do I want this chore? Of course not! When we are filled with grace and the love to serve others, even an animal it is a selfless love that we can pass on and in this way show others the love of God. We can’t do this unless we are filled up to the brim and that means praying in the mundane and the daily struggles and joys of life.Everyday prayer transforms a mundane life into a life of joy. We see this in the lives of the saints. We read about St. Therese of Lisieux, who has many life changing quotes. Here is a link to a page that has more, but a few are:“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice here by a smiling look there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” She didn’t say all for God – but we know that God is synonymous with love! She also said, “Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing.”For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.”
Mediate on these quotes and think about the truth in her words. She was a simple nun, living out her life in extreme poverty yet her life contained riches beyond compare. How can we live our lives? Let’s start with everyday prayer. That is your challenge for this week, how can you infuse everyday prayer into your daily walk with the Lord? While doing your chores and those things that no one else sees but are important nonetheless. In our simpleness, we will find the grace to live holy lives. Praise God, now and forever!
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The Theological VirtuesFrom the Catechism of the Catholic Church
The theological virtues are the foundation of Christian moral activity; they animate it and give it its special character. They inform and give life to all the moral virtues. They are infused by God into the souls of the faithful to make them capable of acting as his children and of meriting eternal life. They are the pledge of the presence and action of the Holy Spirit in the faculties of the human being. There are three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity (love.) #1813
These virtues are gifts from God!
The Virtue of HopeFrom the Catechism of the Catholic Church
Hope is the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” #1817
3 Points About Hope* We hope for what we don’t have and can’t see * Sometimes it is difficult to hope * we can have hope by relying on God’s undeniable power
Act of HopeMy God, I hope with a firm confidence that you will give me, by the merits of Jesus Christ, your grace in this world, and, if I observe your commandments, your glory in the next, because you have promised it to me, and because you are supremely faithful in your promises. (Charles Peguy)
Pray the Act of Hope Prayer each day as a reminder to rely on God.
Consider praying with Mark 4:26-32.
Contact Deanna.
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Image: Mordecai led through the city by Haman, Azor masters ca., 1430
God-designed ComedyGod-designed comedy can reverse calamity! Don’t you wish every tragedy turned into a good laugh instead? Sometimes, we think God doesn’t have a sense of humor. Today in our podcast on Esther, we cannot help but see the comedy from the hand of God that reverses a tragedy.
In Between Dinner PartiesIn our last study, Esther asked the king to come with Haman to a festive banquet dinner she prepared. At the end of the dinner, Esther invited the king and Haman to a second dinner the next day. She delayed the real request because her discernment through prayer and fasting told her the timing was not right. In between the two dinner parties, Haman bursts with pride to family and friends at being asked to dine twice with the king and queen of Persia. However, his joy disappears at the sight of Mordecai who refuses to stand up in his presence. Today, we join the king, whose sleeplessness, ordained by God, leads to a reversal of circumstances. We cover these points:
The Sleeplessness of the King Results in a Peripety (Esther 6: 1-12)* The King can’t sleep so he entertains himself by reading his annals – large volumes that recorded the history and accomplishments of a king’s reign. * The King’s sleeplessness begins the peripety (pronounced “pe-rip-e-tē”). The term is used in dramatic arts to define a sudden reversal of fortune where there is a change in direction. * In a tragedy, the plot changes the fortune of a lead character into ruin. * In a comedy, the reversal changes tragedy into comedy. * In Esther Chapter Six, we see both kinds of peripety.
God’s Reversals and Turnarounds (Esther 6: 12)* The king turns in his annals to an event that occurred five years earlier, only to discover that Mordecai’s service had NEVER been rewarded. * Just then, Haman arrives at the inner court after constructing 75-foot-high gallows for hanging Mordecai. * Haman lusts for power and hopes to wear the King’s robe. * The ancients attached great significance to wearing a royal robe. It was considered a mark of great favor and honor. * Haman tells the king what could be done to the man whom the king wants to honor.
Haman Humbled (Esther 6: 13-14)* Haman hated Mordecai and was greatly humbled in proclaiming the greatness of Mordecai while he wore the king’s robes and crown and rode on the king’s horse. * God’s hand seems to create a peripety: Haman once honored as second in power to the king was humiliated, and Mordecai in sackcloth and ashes was exalted in the king’s robe and attire. * Haman’s friends and wife Zeresh realize that the Jews worshipped a God, who seemed to be intervening. * Haman did not know the warnings of Proverbs 16:18 and Matthew 23: 12. * Proverbs 16: 18. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. NRSV-CE or * Matthew 23: 12. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. NRSV-CE
The Greatest Peripety of All (Ephesians 2: 4-6)* The greatest reversal of all God planned since creation was our redemption from sin and eternal death through Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. * It was the greatest REAL peripety of all.
Personal Reflection In this Esther Chapter 6, we begin to see God’s hand at work reversing many situations. Which of the following principles do you find most helpful? 1. Wait for God’s timing and guidance: He can intervene in your life with a miracle that changes everything. 2. God intervenes in history when His people call out to Him with prayer, repentance, and fasting. 3. Jesus Christ is your reversal of fortune—He died out of love for you to forgive your sins and offer you eternal life. Now is the time to accept His forgiveness as His plan for your life. 4. I will try to remember these verses to remind me of God’s ability to intervene in the worst of circumstances: * Isaiah 59:1.* See, the Lord’s hand is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. * Jeremiah 32: 27. See, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too hard for me? NRSV-CE
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY*
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Freedom From PornographyPart 1 Interview with Steve Pokorny
Freedom From Pornography with Steve Pokorny, founder of Freedom Coaching (Freedom-Coaching.net), joined me to discuss his mission to set the captives free from the addiction to pornography. He grew up in Cleveland, OH, suburbs. His father was a Vietnam veteran and suffered from its lingering effects, particularly depression. He was an attorney and worked long hours. He got caught in a get-rich-quick scheme, and, to his knowledge, he had lost a lot of money, after which he attempted suicide. He did not complete the suicide attempt but remained without short-term memory because of the damage. He was very impaired and was moved to a nursing home. This left Steve very disconnected from his dad from the time he was five years old. This drastically interrupted his ability to connect to his father.
One day as a boy of 12 years old, he found in the middle of his street images of hard-core pornography. He had had no education about sexuality or education. He shared with other kids about the images and ended up selling them images to his friend for $20. For Steve as a boy, there was a space in him that created a perfect storm. Lust, anger, control, and fear were layered within him. He points out that lust leads to violence, as many serial killers start out with exposure to porn. It also leads to the violence of abortion.
For Steve, pornography was a poisoned apple that was dropped into an area of hunger. He was thirsting to have his masculinity affirmed. He felt fatherless, even though he had some good men in his life. He was searching for a connection and was left to settle for a counterfeit. This worsened things even more by filling him with shame. The shame left him afraid and hiding from the people he needed. Dr. Vincent Felitti once said in a talk I heard, “You can never get enough of what almost works.” He didn’t feel comfortable in his own skin and found it difficult to connect with others. He ended up feeling pain or numbness with feelings of guilt, shame, and self-hatred.
Make sure you turn in next week to hear Part 2 to hear how the Lord set Steve free and moved him into ministry to others!
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Restless For God ~ Episode 250Is your soul restless for God? How can you tell? In this episode, your host, Felice Gerwitz, discusses how we may be unhappy and dissatisfied with life. And she discusses “what” may be missing in our lives.
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When was the last time you prayed, picked up the Bible or just sat in the presence of the Lord and felt relaxed and complete? This happens, yes, but for many of us it is difficult to quiet our minds long enough to hear from the Lord, let alone feel any type of comfort and peace.
Why is this? Why are we restless? Why is it that the minute you pick up your Bible, or focus on a prayer that your mind wanders? You want to jump up and send an email, a text or maybe even fold laundry. Why can’t you just focus?
We can easily lay blame at the enemy’s feet. But there is more than temptation at stake here. And, that is what I’d like you to think about today. Why are you restless? Why are you thinking about all of the things on your to-do list rather than about God?
If we dig deeper we can add the following questions to the list, why are we dissatisfied? Why do we think there has to be something more? Or, that we are not doing enough or not pleasing God for the other side of the equation.
I found myself restless not that long ago and I had to take a hard look at the questions I just posed for you. Part of my restlessness stemmed from a lack of control over my life situations. I was unable to fix things or make things right. I was in fact required to place all of my cares into the hands of a loving and waiting for God. Yet, I was too upset and frustrated to stop and do the very thing I knew would bring me relief.
I felt like I was carrying the world on my shoulders, and in the midst of prayer, I was in the trenches so to speak not wanting to give up one tiny bit of ground to the growing chasm in my soul. That may sound melodramatic but it is true. I felt lost and I felt forsaken.
When we are in the depths of despair there is only one place to look and that is up. We can turn to the right and left but nothing but God will bring us the peace we crave. I knew this in my mind. Like many of you listening I spend time in prayer and stand in the gap so to speak for family members and friends in need. While my faith is strong that does not mean that my faith doesn’t falter in battle. Truly when we are in deep prayer we are in a battle, often for souls. Faith is a gift and while we accept it freely it comes with responsibility. However, that does not mean we take on the cares of the world to the detriment of our own well-being.
I realized that I could not carry the burden of praying for others on my own shoulders and I had to release them to the Almighty only then did I hear a whisper in my mind that said, “I never expected you to carry this burden – it was not for you to carry.” And, then relief as if a weight was taken off my back.
We can only be happy when we are with God not only in our prayers but in releasing our will to His perfect will. Our world is looking for happiness and pleasure in all of the wrong places. We know this, but we are only human.
Psalm 73: 23- 26 [Read on air.] Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 24 You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
When we are stuck we can go to the Scriptures and find relief. When we are stuck we realize that nothing, nothing will satisfy us but the love of God. Perhaps you can’t feel that love or you feel you are unworthy (news alert: we are all unworthy except for the saving power of Jesus Christ). But if you know it in your head, ask the Lord to feel it in your heart.
John 6:27 reminds us of the fact that while we feel that restlessness and we look for a solution to our problem we look in places that will not give us rest or happiness. [Read on air.] Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.”
What is the root cause of the restlessness we feel? Do you know? For each of us this answer may be different, but for most of us, the solution is the same.
Have you heard the saying, You have made us for yourself, O Lord and our hearts are restless until they rest in You. This is a quote from Saint Augustine which he writes in his Confessions. (More of the quote here and here.) Our hearts long for God because we were made (our spirits and souls) in the image of God. We were created as we learned as young children to love and honor Him, and when we don’t we flounder.
Our hearts and in essence, our spirits and souls will only rest when we rest in God. We crave this love that we are missing in our lives and therefore we become restless. Psalm 116:7 sums it up perfectly in a few words: Return, O my soul, to your rest, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.
Until we realize that our restless is because of our desire to know God better, to have a deeper communion with Him, a deeper relationship with Him, and only then can we feel that satisfaction that comes from the Lord who is always waiting with open arms. If you read the life of Augustine you will find that a great sinner converted to Christianity many believe due to the prayers of his mother (which gives all parents out there hope for their children). His story is one of redemption and grace and it is a story not only for him but for all of us.
This week examine the restlessness in your life, and determine to make a change, a change in your relationship with God which is always a change for the better! May God be blessed today and always.
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Image: Esther before Ahasuerus (1547-48) Painting by Tintoretto
Pray, Wait & DiscernAre you praying, waiting, and discerning? Have you ever prayed in a daunting situation? Were you looking for a quick solution? Sometimes a quick solution is not the best solution. In our podcast today, Esther shows us the value of prayer, but also why it’s important to wait and discern God’s solution.
Esther Puts Her Life on the LineEsther’s name comes from the Hebrew root “SIT-UR seter,” which means “concealed.” It suggests her identity would be concealed for a time, but the time had come for her to reveal her faith. Mordecai asked her to go to the king to stop the edict against the Jews, but without an invitation, she could be executed. Esther finally agreed to put her life on the line for such a time as this. She knew she needed God’s intervention, so she called for three days of fasting from food and water for all Jews, and even her maids. Then she would go to the king with the conclusion, “If I perish, I perish.” In the podcast today, we will cover these points.
The Third Day (Esther 5: 1-8)
- The “third day” in the Jewish faith is significant. A Jewish commentary suggests believed God’s deliverance for Israel would come after prayer on “the third day” (Midrash Raba, Esther).
- For example, in the Old Testament Hosea 6: 2 says, After two days He will revive us; on the third day God will raise us up, that we may live before him. NRSV-CE
- The third day is also connected to the Christian faith and Jesus’ resurrection.
Esther’s Gentle-Discerning Leadership (Esther 5: 5-7) Esther “stood” before the king radiating an inner strength and outer beauty from God. * Esther 15 (Deuterocanonical): the King invited Esther to him, saying: “Come near. 11 Then he raised the golden scepter and touched her neck with it; 12 he embraced her, and said, “Speak to me.” * Gentle leadership characterizes a leader who is kind, compassionate, loyal, and willing to listen to the needs of those around her. * A discerning leader prays and waits for God’s direction. * Queen Esther was truly a gentle and discerning leader.* She leaned completely on God for strength and guidance.
Esther’s Discernment and the First Banquet (Esther 5: 9-14)
- The fasting and prayers of Esther and God’s people changed the heart of the King.
- On the third day of fasting, Esther abandoned herself in total submission to God, put on royal robes to show her authority as Queen of Persia, and became the leader God designed her to be.
- Esther asked the king to come with Haman to a festive dinner banquet she had prepared.
- At the end of the meal, Esther delayed and again asked the king and Haman to come to a second dinner on the following day.
- God’s guidance and discernment indicated Esther needed to wait one more day.
Haman and His Prized Sons
- Haman boasted to his family and friends (v. 10-12). H
- Historian Herodotus says the Persians prized a large number of sons, second only to great courage in war.
- Haman’s pride burst with pride at being invited to dinner twice with the king and queen of Persia.
- Only the sight of Mordecai the Jew who would not bow to him pricked his joy. His wife Zeresh suggested he build gallows 75 feet (50 cubits) high and hang Mordecai immediately.
Personal Reflection* Which principles on prayer, waiting and discernment will you apply? * I need to seek God with other pray-ers for support to stand firm in spiritual battles. * To become a gentler and more discerning person, I need to increase my time in prayer with repentance for myself and others, fasting, and waiting. * I want to rely more on God’s discernment. I must wait where God has placed me and invite his discernment and leadership. * I will try to remember this verse: Isaiah 40:31.“But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” NRSV-CE
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY*
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Challenge After Easter ~ Episode 249What is the challenge after Easter? Have you even considered this a question? In this episode, Felice explores the idea of embracing each day with the remembrance of the Resurrection and living our lives as true Christian sons and daughters.
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Before Easter, many of us take the time to seek God in a deeper way as we consider His ultimate sacrifice. This time is called Lent, and it is the 40 days before Easter. Jesus spent 40 days in prayer in the desert before what is called his public ministry. It is an amazing example to us. Jesus spent this time in preparation, and He was tested.
The Easter season is always special, especially if you practice fasting, almsgiving, reconciliation, or confession. We examine our lives and look for ways to improve. Maybe we realize there are sins in our lives, and we make a point of changing for the better. Lent is practiced widely in the Catholic Church and begins on Ash Wednesday, a time of receiving ashes on the forehead at church with the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust, you shall return.” This a reminder that we do not live forever, and while God is merciful, He is also just.
Perhaps you focused before Easter on prayer, journaling, or made a concentrated effort to renew your relationship with the Lord. This time is beneficial; if you did not have time to do this in the past, there is always today to begin. It is never too late to increase your faith and your time with God. Each day is a new beginning, and with it comes new hope! I love the word hope – it is inspiring and gives me the confidence that all will be well. Maybe not as I will it, but as the Lord wills it to happen.
During Easter, we celebrate the fact that God has conquered death and opened up a way to heaven and that we, as His followers, have a path ahead that is an invitation. Easter day may include worship, attending church, and celebrating by sharing a meal with friends and family. It is a wonderful time of connection.
What about after? Do we lose that Easter glow? Do we forget about rejoicing the day after HE has RISEN? Unfortunately, that is a yes for many of us. Each day after, we continue on with our lives and forget what God has done for us. However, the challenge is to remember Jesus daily.
Here are a handful of ideas to keep the Lord front and center:
- Praise and thank Him each day for the simple things. In a future podcast, I will discuss everyday prayer, but for now, know that our lives can be used as a prayer. If we dedicate our concerns to Him, the burden is often lifted. Maybe not totally, but in some way, we know we are not alone.
- Meditate on one scripture each day. For example, Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Think about the words, and focus on what impacts you. The overarching theme here is that God’s protection for those who follow Him will not overwhelm us. It does not mean life is easy, only that He will give us the grace to handle it. By meditating on this concept, we will be renewed.
- Realize that you are not in this life alone. As a follower of the Almighty God, the King of the Universe, you are never alone. John 14;25-27 “I have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Advocate,[a] the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. Again an amazing verse to ponder.
- Use song as a prayer. Praying through the verses of your favorite Christian songs helps us to be placed in the midst of God. Praying through song is considered by some, praying twice. Here is a podcast I created sometime back on Christian music and using it for praise, here.
Can you add to the list above? What are some ways to keep God the focus of your life? Take some time and consider this question, maybe right now but afterward. We have different ways of worshiping God, but keeping God at the forefront of our lives takes work and a concentrated effort. Our lives would be so much better if we could remember to do this, and not just during the Easter or Christmas season but all year long.
For many of us, our lives are divided into compartments. There is work time and family or friend time; there is time for recreation, whether it is social media, a book, the television, or an online source. There is time for worship which may be one or more days a week. However, if we include God in all we do, if we did this, our lives would not only be richer but more in the sense of keeping us from sin.
When we get busy or our focus is on the wrong thing, we stumble, and we fall. In trying to do our best or make everyone else happy, we discover that we have lost something of ourselves. Many of us are “other-focused,” which means we place our family and friends above ourselves. This is not a bad thing, but we forget to fill up our own tanks with the hope that Jesus is the only important thing and that His life, death, and resurrection give us hope of eternal life. This is the essence of the Easter message. Understanding that God made us for Himself and that our dedication and prayer to Him daily is for us, not for Him. Nothing we can do can earn us salvation, but in the same way, we should give Him our very best. By doing this, we can release the burdens that keep us tied down to Him in the midst of worship.
How will you keep the Easter season alive in your life? Only you know the answer to this, and I pray that you are motivated to make take the message to heart; you are loved so much, John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Amen and Amen.
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The Obedient SonA Moment with Scripture-8:21-30-By Deacon David Hockwalt
The Obedient Son. This gospel highlights the misunderstanding between Jesus and the Pharisees. It is based on the fact that they are coming from two different perspectives. The Pharisees are in this earthly world, and Jesus is from heaven, above. The Pharisees cannot understand Jesus because they think about him in their own earthly terms. The same is today for those who deny Jesus’s divinity.
When Jesus says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come, they think he is going to take his own life. Jesus says, ‘If you do not believe I am, you will die in your sins.’ In the bible there is a deep connection between sin and death. St. Paul writes, ‘Through Adam sin entered the world and through sin, death.’ When Jesus is talking about dying in your sins, he is talking about dying in the state of separation from God. Only Jesus can heal humanity of sin and reconcile them with the Father. To this day, those who believe in Jesus accept eternal life with the Father. Those who reject Jesus refuse his gift and thus die separated from God.
DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT has ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Sometimes we go to all the liturgies of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter but never seem to ponder or pray with the scripture. We wonder, is there more? Can I go deeper? What is there in these words forme?
Guided MeditationsThis podcast episode offers you two guided meditations, one for Good Friday and the other for Easter.
The Good Friday meditation is based on the Gospel of Mark, chapter 15; I invite you to pause and reflect today on all that Jesus has done for us.
The Easter mediation is based on John 20:1-9. Here are the questions I pose for reflection:
- In times of grief, do you want to be alone or need others around you?
- Have you ever not known where Jesus was in your own life?
- What helped you find him?
- I have had many resurrections in my life; how about you? Find some time to think about those, maybe write them down, and praise and thank God for them.
I didn’t give a Not Lukewarm challenge this week. Instead, I encourage you to spend time in prayer with the reflection questions and scripture passages.
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Image: Mordecai & Esther by Aert de Gelder, 1685 – Mordecai urges Esther’s Intervention
For Such a Time as This.Do you have a mission for such a time as this? You indeed do and this podcast will help you! Join us today as Queen Esther trusts the power of God in prayer, gains needed courage, and discovers her mission.
A Passover Turned to WeepingIn Esther Chapter 3, Mordecai refused to bow down and pay homage to Haman. Enraged Haman hatred for Jews and cast Purim (somewhat similar to our dice) to determine the date for the killing of all Jews throughout all of Persia. The king agreed and the announcement for the annihilation of all the Jewish people was distributed throughout the kingdom on Passover—the very day Jewish families commemorate annually the time God delivered them from slavery in Egypt and saved their firstborn.
Now, their joy-filled Passover celebration was turned into a time of wailing. Could you imagine this happening to you, your family, or your church family on a celebration like Easter?
The words For Such a Time as This, come directly from Chapter 4 of the Book of Esther. Today, we cover these points:
Sackcloth and Ashes (Esther 4: 1-4) Mordecai heard of the edict and he sobbed greatly, tore his clothes, and put on sackcloth and ashes. He wailed and wept bitterly on the city square at the palace gate. * For all Jews, the happy celebration of Passover with family, friends, traditions, and food quickly turned into wailing, fasting, and prayer. According to Scripture, the Jewish people always linked prayer and repentance with fasting. * Sackcloth, made from grain bags was scratchy, could cut the skin, and served as an act of penance and pleading with the Lord. Ashes, worn on the head or sat in, were a sign of self-humiliation and deep sorrow often over a national disaster. See Joel 2:12 and 17* to summarize this Biblical purpose for fasting, weeping, and penance.
Persian Palace Life (Esther 4: 5-12)* Esther lived in the plush environment of the palace, but she may have become secluded from the world around her. She was not aware of Haman’s edict. * She tried to send clothes to Mordecai. Only when he refused the clothes did she ask what was wrong. Mordecai gave her the evidence of the edict but she indicated she could not go to the king as he had not called for her in over 30 days. She could be put to death if he did not reach out.
National Fasting (Esther 4: 13-17)* Esther called a day of national fasting. * Throughout Old Testament history, fasting meant fervently calling out to God with a heart of repentance, sorrow, submission, and supplication to seek his help or protection, provision, and forgiveness. For example, refer to Judges 20, Deuteronomy 9, Joel 1-2, 1 Samuel, and Jonah 3. * Every year, according to Leviticus 23, all of Israel fasted on the Day of Atonement and a scapegoat would be driven into the desert to represent the sins of the people (a foreshadowing of what Christ would do on the cross for us). As they prayed, repented, and humbled themselves, their sins would be taken from God’s sight on the scapegoat. * See Esther 13 and 14 for examples of how to intercede/pray for a nation from Esther and Mordecai’s prayers (e.g., praising God’s goodness, repenting for your sins and the sins of your nation, pouring out your heart to God, asking for God’s intervention).
Planning a Fast* Fasting is about relationship. It is about aligning ourselves with God—drawing close to Him, worshiping Him, hearing from Him, repenting (turning), and changing our ways. * Fasting takes planning for most of us, but most importantly it involves replacing our time spent eating or running around in “busyness,” with prayer and time seeking the Lord. * A fast, drinking only water or juice, can last a meal, until nightfall, a full day or more. Fasting can also involve refraining from certain foods (see Daniel 10: 2-3). or refraining from distractions like media or television, internet usage, shopping for a certain amount of time, etc.). * For the plan, you may want to take five steps: (1) write down your objective, (2) decide how you will fast, (3) schedule time in adoration & personal prayer, (4) read God’s Word & ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you (e.g., John 14 and 15), and (5) believe that God will answer with wisdom, direction, and/or a miracle. * In Esther’s case, an extreme response would be required for her to safely go to the King, so she called for an extreme fast— three days of abstaining from food and water for the entire nation!
Personal ReflectionToday, our story teaches us:
- At first, Esther was not aware that God had a mission for her—God planned to use her powerfully. With Mordecai’s help and the providence of God, she discerned her mission but was afraid and at first denied it.
- Esther needed fellow pray-ers. She asked her entire Jewish nation to pray, fast and repent, and seek God’s intervention. Only after three days of prayer and fasting did she find the grace and strength to proceed in her mission- to be used by God to save the Jewish People
- What is God’s mission for you at your place and time? The Lord Jesus has a mission for you. ASK in prayer. Often, it involves bringing the love of God and a testimony of Him to those around you. But, sometimes, it may be more than you ever thought possible.
- Finally, consider praying with St. John Henry Newman’s Prayer I Have a Place. Start with praying these few sentences: “I have a place in God’s counsels, in God’s world, which no one else has; whether I be rich or poor, despised or esteemed by man, God knows me and calls me by my name. God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have my mission…” The rest is in a free bookmark on my website WrapyourselfinJOY.com.
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourseldinJOY.com. * For all Esther & Turnaround JOY podcasts click here: * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such A Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and Joy*
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Suffering Is a PainSuffering Is a Pain. This is a topic that is always with us in this life! As Catholics we often hear about the redemptive power of suffering. How are we to do that in a way that is powerful and in a way where we collaborate with the grace the Lord is giving? We know the saints suffered well and that is even before they were saints. We can tend to forget they weren’t yet canonized when they were still alive. What is the difference between suffering and just being in pain?
Suffering is the way we respond to pain. We often get taught not to grumble, complain, become impatient, take it out on your neighbor, or self-medicate. Yet, nature abhors a vacuum and it’s insufficient to hear what not to do. We need to know what to do.
- First, we need to acknowledge the suffering or frustration and not stuff it and then leave the emotions to come out sideways. In Jesus’ agony in the garden before His crucifixion, He didn’t deny or minimize what He was about to undergo, even though He knew how things were going to end and that He would rise in three days! He still sweat blood. He was real with the situation and was in touch with His emotions. Emotions are energy that move us from or towards something and if we just stuff them, they can come out in a variety of unhealthy ways.
- Secondly, we can consider how the Lord experienced the same type of suffering or greater. He suffered in many ways in His earthly life, even before His Passion. He put up with frustration in dealing with the apostles as they bickered about who was the greatest, He was a sign of contradiction, rejected even for doing good, denied, betrayed, tortured, mocked, ridiculed, and put to death.
- Next, we can unite our sufferings to His. That is so powerful. The notion of atonement – being at one with Him can afford us an insight into the Lord’s own pain and what He endured for love of us. Also, because He suffered in these ways, He is well acquainted with what we suffer. I can be present to He who is present to me.
- Then, we experience the intimacy of being seen into by Him as we see into what He suffered. When the pain goes away what is left is love. Suffering hurts, is painful, is difficult. Don’t beat yourself up for that or put pressure on yourself that suffering shouldn’t be difficult. If it wasn’t so, it wouldn’t be suffering. Yet, the Lord can transform every occasion of suffering into an occasion of intimacy with Him. His compassionate love sustains us in the midst of the difficulty.
- Finally, we do whatever good we are supposed to be doing out of the power of intimacy with the Lord. Suffering does NOT have to lead us to isolation, but through drawing closer to the Lord in the midst of it there is intimacy with the Lord. We are moved out of the isolation of pain into the intimacy of suffering with the Lord and then empowered by the union with Him and His Holy Spirit to imitate Him. We are not made for isolation, but for connection.
Somehow through it all we are transformed from death to new life in Him! He equips our crosses with that same transforming power of His Cross.
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Feeding Your Soul ~ Episode 248We feed our bodies, but are you feeding your spirit and soul? Everything we put into our bodies affects our physical health, but the same happens with our spirit and soul. Who do you surround yourself with, what do you read or watch, and how we engage with others? In this episode, we discuss ways to feed our souls that benefit our spiritual health.
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Have you heard the saying “Garbage in, garbage out?” I’m sure you have, yet we don’t consider it means anything else than the food we eat. If we are careful about eating well to feed our bodies, why are we not careful with our spiritual being?
We know from the beginning of the creation of the world that God meant for us to live a life of abundance. To live in a garden without sin and to live essentially forever. We are created in the image and likeness of God, we are told. Genesis 1:26-27 God wants a relationship with us and is there waiting. We are the ones avoiding Him. Sin, at its root cause, is an issue of relationship. Relationships that are broken, harmed, and sometimes destroyed.
We read in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May the God of peace himself sanctify you wholly; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We are made up of spirit, soul, and body. We know what a body is, but what about our spirit and soul? While we have a spirit, we are not spirits in the sense of Heavenly Ages or the Holy Spirit. The spirit is the entity we have that connects with God; it is the “relationship” part. It gives us a sense of longing; we long for God, who has made us for Him. If we are unaware that this longing for happiness is essentially a longing for God, we are unhappy and unfulfilled.
People try all types of things to become happy. Whether it is eating, friends, drinking, or shopping. Have you heard the term “retail therapy”? That is a term that refers to shopping to make you happy when you are sad, as if new clothing or some other purchase can take away the sadness that is rooted in brokenness. Let me ask you – have you ever thought, “I would be perfectly happy if I had…” (Fill in the blank.) Whatever that need is, and again if you get that thing, you want, it will be a temporary fix. Money does not buy happiness, only God.
The spirit is also the reservoir, if you will, of faith. It is important for the life of the believer. Once again, it is that God connection, that belief that you know that you know, beyond doubt, that the Almighty lives and He cares for you in an intimate way. Not as some afterthought but designed purposely for this life. That craving is not for chocolate; it is for God!
Our souls and spirits are connected. The soul is shrouded in a body; it is called the “life principle,” all living bodies have a soul; if they do not have a soul, they would not live. Every living thing has a soul; however, man is unique. Why? Because we have rational powers, that makes us different.
Luke 12:19-20 states (Read online.)
Our souls are where our selfish and sinful nature resides, and our souls are part of our bodies that leave our physical selves at the time of death. In Genesis, we read about the death of Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob. Genesis 35: 18 (Read online.)
Our soul and spirit combined are where our emotional experiences reside. The soul can refer to the entire person, whether we are alive or have passed on. So shouldn’t we feed our souls with all that is good and pure? If our consciences are well formed, we will know when something is not right, when we shouldn’t watch, listen or be around something we know isn’t good for us.
We read in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (Read online)
And in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, (red online.)
So now what will you do? How will you feed the part of yourself that is tempted by sin or the part of you that wants a closer relationship with God but does not have the time? My challenge will surprise you. Sure, reading Scripture, praying, keeping a prayer journal, reading a good Christian faith book, and works of charity, all these are wonderful and can indeed fill your soul with nourishment. But there is more. Feeding your soul means working on your conscience. This means making an effort to do what is right. Just like forgiveness, making an effort means making a decision and doing it. Is it easy? No. Is it worthwhile? Yes, and yes.
Feeding our souls means taking the time to put our decisions in alignment. What road do we travel as Christians? The road that is less traveled. Giving into sin may seem like the easy way, but like our diets, eating what is good for our bodies, so too, filling ourselves with what is right and will be a blessing. Think of the people you hold in high regard. Is there a time when you saw someone fail? How did that make you feel? I know I’ve felt let down, especially if this is a person you care about. With all of the scandals going on in churches across our world, people have lost faith in God. That is a shame and truthfully not warranted. Yes, we can be heartbroken, but our eyes should never be on the pastor, the choir, or the Bible teacher; our eyes should only be on Christ because He will not fail us.
A very popular Christian author, speaker, and associate pastor left his faith behind when an extreme scandal at his church came crashing down. While he had nothing to do with this on the surface (maybe he could have done something or not turned a blind eye), the point is he allowed this tragedy to take him away from God. But what else happened? It was a domino effect because he had led many people toward God with his writings and sharing about relationships. We have his books on our own shelves. His downfall came from placing the wrong emphasis on the wrong people. Did God fail him? No. Did man. Yes.
Almighty God gave us life and gave us a chance to do things right. This is the only life you have, so live it well, and that means not in the sense of selfishness. I hear the words, “Live your best life,” as if anyone would purposely live their worse life — yet sometimes, while living your best, you live a life that is devoid of putting others first. Or, maybe if you are a parent, you put everyone else first but yourself and then find you have nothing left to give.
Not surprisingly, last Sunday, our pastor talked about the soul and its need to be considered. He is the same pastor who often talks about sin being a broken relationship with God. He shared that filling our souls in repairing that relationship with God and with the important people in our life. It does not mean we ignore others, we should have Christian charity, but it does mean we do not lose sleep over what people think about our walk with God. Many times people care about what people think of those who are unimportant in their lives.
When God is not a factor in our life, the evil one gets in and causes havoc to our souls. So decide today–what will you do? How will you fill your soul? How will you encourage that sense that nothing is fulfilling in your life (because it can’t be without God as the focus), and make an effort to change? Do you think you need to change, or are you content with your life as it is now?
I pray you to take this idea of feeding your soul to heart and find a way to make it happen. Only you can decide, and only you can create that effort and dedication to place God first in your life and lead by example, which is your challenge this week.
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[PowerPress]
Do you ever have unwavering resolve? Have you pondered when to be resolute or when to compromise? In relationships, compromise is used for cooperation and keeping the peace, so we need to negotiate our desires with the positions of others. Nonetheless, there are some situations where we must stand firm, determined, and unshakable. Join us today in the Book of Esther where we learn unwavering resolve in difficult times.
Persia, 474 BC – Five Years After Esther’s BanquetWelcome to Esther & Turnaround Joy Episode #4: Unwavering Resolve & the First Edict, where we encounter Esther and Mordecai five years after King Ahasuerus sponsored the beauty contest, crowned Esther as queen, and celebrated with Esther’s banquet.
Now, the providential hand of God becomes more evident as we see why God put Esther in a position of influence—even before the Jewish people faced the prospect of annihilation. Now it’s 474 BC we join Mordecai as he stands near the palace gate and overhears a plot to kill the king. I hope you enjoy these points:
Mordecai at the Palace Gate & Assassination Plot Foiled (Esther 2: 19-23)* Mordecai is “sitting at the gate” checking on Esther, and likely working in a government position. * Mordecai told Esther not to reveal her nationality. * While at the gate, Mordecai overheard a plot to kill King Ahasuerus and reported it to Esther, who told the king. The villains were hanged. * The would-be assassins Bigthan and Teresh were hanged. * Acts of loyalty like Mordecai’s were officially recorded so the king could reward the hero.
Mordecai is Resolute (Esther 3: 1-6) Mordecai stood firm with unwavering resolve which means firm, determined, not shakable, and displaying unwavering loyalty. (Vocabulary.com dictionary). * He refused to bow down to Haman because God had commanded the Jewish people not to bow down in adoration to anyone (e.g., Exodus 20: 3-*6). * Haman was the king’s top advisor and “an enemy of the Jews” (Esther 3:10). * Haman was an Agagite, a descendent of King Agag of the Amalekites, who was of a fierce nomadic tribe that made their living by raiding settlements, killing the men, women, and children, and then taking their possessions. They had a “blood-feud” with Israel, which demanded total extermination of the Israelites (see Exodus 17 and Deuteronomy 25).
The Pur, the Plan, and the Drink (Esther 3: 7-15 & Esther 13)The Pur Mordecai stood firm in his faith and obedience to God’s law and would not bow to Haman. * Infuriated Haman in April 374 BC cast the pur – purim is the plural form. * The purim were similar to our dice and were thrown to help make decisions and choose dates. * Esther 3:7 indicates the pur* fell on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Aadar, March 7, 374 BC, for destroying all Jews.
The Plan* Haman offered the king 10,000 talents or about 375 tons of silver, which of course he hoped to acquire by killing Jewish families and plundering their homes. * King Ahasuerus gave Haman his signet ring, which was his signature used to stamp the wax on an official letter from the king. * Haman summoned the scribes to draft the edict on the day before Passover- April 17th, 474 BC (Esther 3:12). * The announcement was sent out to the 127 provinces of the Persian Empire on Passover—the very day Jewish families annually commemorated God delivering them from slavery (see Exodus 12). The date was chosen to dishearten and terrorize the Jewish people. * The Passover celebration with family and friends quickly turned into a day of confusion and weeping. How ironic! The day of the announcement would fall on a commemoration of God’s deliverance. Could God again deliver them from destruction? It would be only God who could!
The Drink* To Haman and the king, it was just another day to celebrate their power, so they had a drink. * Haman’s heart was hardened with generational hatred so he rejoiced in the genocide of the Jews. * Hebrews 4: 13 reminds us: “before him [God] no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.” * Little did Haman know that the God of heaven was in control.
Personal Reflection: Unwavering Resolve We witnessed a good example of unwavering resolve with Mordecai. It reminds each of us that there is a time for unwavering resolve when we must follow God no matter the cost. We cannot deny God’s commandments ever. * Mordecai refused to bow in worship to anyone other than the God of heaven and earth. He was following Exodus 20, “You shall have no other gods beside Me…You shall not bow down to them…” * Psalm 119: 2-4 reminds us: “2 Happy [blessed and joyful] are all who search for God and always do his will, 3 rejecting compromise with evil and walking only in his paths. 4 You [O God] have given us your laws to obey. * My unwavering resolve and devotion to God may be met with persecution, but I can choose to be strong in the Lord and keep his commandments. 1 Corinthians 16: 13-14 says: Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.* * Please ask God, ”Where do you want me to have unwavering resolve?” Then ask for his help to be resolute. He will give it.
Links YOU can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY*
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Testimony of Donna RossTestimony of Donna Ross. After a wonderful 25-year career, Donna left the Magic Kingdom of Disney in 1994 to work for the Eternal Kingdom of God. The Lord enriched her natural gifts with supernatural grace and called her into full-time ministry to his beloved Church. Much to her surprise, many of her skills developed over the years in the workplace have been helpful in her ministry experience.
She was the organizational chair for the first Orange County Charismatic Conference. She served as vice president of Southern California Renewal Communities (SCRC) for six years. She has been involved with Magnificat in Orange County since its inception. She has been a host of St. Joseph Catholic Radio since 1998. As director of Pastoral and Educational Services and DRE for her parish, she loved sharing that God is alive and well with everyone. Donna is the founding coordinator of the new Magnificat Chapter in Palm Desert, CA, Our Lady of Desert Roses.
She served on the vicariate core team and was the team leader for Life in the Spirit and Growth Seminars. She is the recipient of the Bishops award, and the Our Lady of Guadalupe award for her generous and selfless service to the Diocese of San Bernadino. Donna is currently serving as the Coordinator of the Central Service Team (CST) of the Magnificat International Ministry. Donna is a woman led by the Holy Spirit, and her testimony truly proclaims the greatness of the Lord.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Matter of Life and DeathMatter of Life and Death. In Scripture, we hear a lot about dying to ourselves. We are commanded to do it and told it is essential for life. So, what does that actually mean? What is dying to ourselves? Is there a value in suffering for the sake of suffering? No! The power and beauty of suffering come by enduring the pain and suffering of this life by joining it to the suffering of Christ.
As baptized members of His Body, we die with Him and rise with Him to know life. In this way, death is active, not passive. It’s staying connected to the Lord by actively and consciously uniting our pain to His. We are called to die to sin and selfishness by embracing our crosses for the love of Him as He embraced the Cross for the love of us. That union with Him – the Divine Indwelling of the Holy Trinity gives us the power to go through anything.
How are you planning to die today? How am I planning to die today? – Rather than planning to please ourselves, we can plan how to let His Spirit and grace flow through us. That’s how we can be conduits of grace rather than consumed with ourselves. It allows us to become more and more transformed into Him. We can suffer on our own, but in doing it in union with Jesus, we are able to grow into deeper spiritual maturity.
It’s more a matter of how we do what we do. It doesn’t matter if we are called to a life of ministry. Going the extra mile above and beyond the call of duty in whatever it is, we do we die to our plans and our convenience and are able to be Jesus to others in very simple and practical ways.
There’s a joy that comes from doing these things. We are physically made for these things to feel good! Oxytocin – one of the feel-good hormones – is released when we minister to others, are ministered to, or even witness someone else minister to another.
The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand! Living to die to ourselves brings the deep joy for which we are made. St. Francis of Assisi said that when we do these things, the second death will do us no harm. We will already be fitted for Heaven!
How are we trying to die today?
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Fruits of Prayer ~ Episode 247The fruits of prayer are all around us, and we should be encouraged, right? Yet we walk around carrying the burdens of the world on our shoulders. No more! This is a challenge to not only enjoy the fruits of your prayer life, but ways to pray for others.
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In the Holy Bible, fruit is the symbol of many things. It is the symbol of good faith; it is the symbol of avoiding (such as the tree of life and the tree of good and evil), it was the apple that symbolized temptation because of what it represented.
Good fruit is also a sign that we are on the right path. Matthew 7: 17-20 (read on air).
This is important because in Salvation history and throughout Scripture we are shown again and again the sinfulness of mankind. Bad choices are made, even those selected by God, fall into sin. Yes, we should accept the Lord as our God and Savior, as my pastor calls it, and I love it, the “Fundamental Option.” Yes, Lord I repent, I believe, I will sin no more and follow you. But… there is always a but! We must show our decision by our fruits our decisions, and constantly be in prayer.
I love learning new things, and I appreciate this because it is the only way I can grow in faith. I was talking to one of our pastors after church and asked him some specific questions. Finally, he said to me, when you pray think of the Holy of Holies. I knew what he meant, the Bible refers to this place, as I remembered in the Old Testament. We read in Leviticus 16:12 (Read on air.)
There are other references in Scripture, but the point is envisioning this place, the Holy of Holies… can you picture it? It is a quiet place that is filled with goodness, light, and grace. It is where the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit reside.
Then, he asked me to think about bringing God into my problems instead of bringing my problems to God. Wow – think about this. It is such a beautiful analogy of allowing the Lord into our hearts, and that is truly a blessing. Do you see the difference? Bring our prayers to God, or bring our God into our lives and thus into our prayers!
When we think about the fruits of prayer, we consider how God has answered what we want, our prayers, and our petitions. Our happiness often hinges on what God has done for us. When you think about it in this way, it sounds awfully selfish! But it does not have to be, especially when we begin to thank and praise God for our past blessings and what he has done for us.
Can you make a list? What has God done for you in the last year? The last few months? The last few weeks? How about today? Stop this recording, or come back to this question later. The fruits of prayer are, in essence, our life. Our ability to live each and every day, for some it is difficult, especially if you are ill or caring for someone in need. We all have something to be thankful for, and early on in this podcast, I shared the idea of a journal that was filled with thankfulness for what the Lord has done for you.
The fruit of prayer is thankfulness and awe, and wonder. The Creator of the Universe cares for you and for me in a powerful way! Even in our darkest times, we can be thankful for the sun that rises and warms the earth, the glistening of the raindrops, or the gentle breeze that cools us off on a hot day. The fruit of prayer is contentment. That joy that surpasses all understanding, as I paraphrase Philippians 4:7 – one of my favorite scripture verses: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The Fruit of Prayer Joy – Peace – Contentment – Satisfaction – UnderstandingNo matter what is on your list of feelings you may have when your prayers are answered, it truly gives us a sense that God is with us, but not only that, it is a sense of hope. 2 Corinthians 5-7 – For we live by faith, not by sight. Or “We walk by faith and not by sight.” helps us when we do not feel his presence. Out of obedience, we say, “Yes, Lord,” daily.
The hope that God gives us is the understanding that no matter what, He is with us—a personal story on the air.
This is the fruit of prayer, a turnaround, and a change of heart. We want our hearts to be on fire for God, but often we can only consider our needs or those of the people we pray for daily. Instead, consider how you fall short, and make a turnaround. A turnaround to do better, to try harder, or to do something differently. When something does not work out well, why do the same thing expecting a better outcome?
Peace, joy, and contentment are wonderful, but a change of heart is even better. It helps us on our journey, and we can consider the prayer, “Thank you, Lord, for all the blessings you give me; I need nothing but you.” If we can truly say that with conviction, we are on the road to healing of mind, heart, and will. Our will is being given to God the Almighty!
This week I would love you to join me in prayer and acknowledge the fruit of our prayers. Consider what God has done for you, the good fruit in your life, and praise Him in all things.
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Are you seeking to become more attractive and win favor with others? Who isn’t? Join us today at the Spa, circa 479 BC and hear how attractiveness, God’s way, finds favor and how the providence of God unfolds slowly but surely. (The image is an ancient painting entitled Esther Bedecked by Aert de Gerder, 1684, showing Esther bedecked in an ermine-edged coat.)
Persia, 479 BC* Four years have passed between Chapters One and Two of Esther (see Esther 1:3 and 2: 16). According to Greek historian Herodotus, during that time King Ahasuerus suffered a great military defeat by the Greeks and returned home to consume himself with overindulgence and sensuality. * He also missed the lasting relationship with his beautiful wife Queen Vashti whom he dethroned at his last party. The king’s advisors suggest a beauty contest with exotic spa treatments to help find a new queen. So today we are off to the spa and to witness the crowning of a new queen.
Mordecai Brings Up Esther (Esther 2: 1-8) Mordecai was introduced as a Jew* in the family line of Kish (King Saul’s family) of the tribe of Benjamin. (Calling him a Jew repeatedly suggests that he was somehow still a foreigner and not completely accepted into secular Persia.) A person’s family line showed his status in Jewish lineage. When the Scriptures mention Nebuchadnezzar carried away Kish, the verses are referring to the Babylonian captivity, with a second forced removal involving King Jeconiah of Judah in 597 BC. Likely, Mordecai’s grandfather and family members were among those taken captive in 597 BC. * Mordecai was born in Susa of Persia after the defeat of the Babylonian Empire. He and his family had chosen not to return to Jerusalem when Cyrus the Great allowed the Jews to return home beginning in 539 BC. * Esther was introduced as Mordecai’s younger cousin (Esther 2:7) whom he raised because she had been orphaned. Likely, her parents died when she was young. So it would have been Mordecai who taught her the Hebrew Scriptures and the Jewish faith
Esther & The Spa Treatments (Esther 2: 9-12)* The beauty contest was not the usual Persian way to select a queen. Normally, kings took their wives from the families of the Persian nobles and that is probably how King Ahasuerus crowned Vashti. However, a self-indulgent and powerful king could choose any woman he wanted for a wife. * In Susa, Esther was given seven servants plus food probably laden with oils to fatten her up and help her display the Persian ideal of beauty. The women were given oil baths of delicious-smelling flowers and herbs to soften the skin and add a fragrant aroma. * At Susa, Divine Providence – God unfolding his purposes – becomes more visible to the spiritual eye, as we notice Esther found favor with Hegai.
Esther is Crowned Queen (Esther 2: 12 -18)* After twelve months of beauty treatments, it was Esther’s turn to come before the king. * Esther pleased the king, even though we do not know the details or how this happened in one evening. Obviously, the king saw her inner and outer beauty—the first woman that pleased him since Vashti. It was Divine Providence behind the scenes that surely turned the king’s heart toward Esther, even if she was only cooperating with the circumstances which were beyond her control.
Esther’s Banquet When King Ahasuerus crowned Esther as his Queen, he. gave another party, calling it Esther’s Banquet*. This celebration included both men and women, generous gifts, and even tax relief.
Personal ReflectionToday, our story teaches us:
- The Lord can turn the heart of a leader. We can trust and pray that He does in our times as well.
- God is at work even though we don’t see him right away. We can pray to see God active in the scenes of our lives, for he is surely there at work.
- Ultimately it is God who turns the heart of the king. He gave Esther favor and her inner beauty seemed to capture the king’s favor and love.
God’s Attractiveness Plan Proverbs 31: 30 and 1 Peter 3: 3 summarize God’s beauty plan.
- Proverbs 31: 30. Charm is deceptive, and beauty fleeting but a woman who fears [worships, honors, and respects] the Lord is to be praised. (GNT) Obviously, with age, beauty fades, but to worship, honor and respect God creates a lasting attractiveness that appeals to others too. God blesses all of our attempts to honor Him. So how is your attractiveness quotient when you consider spending time daily to worship and honor God is an important part of any beauty plan?
- 1 Peter 3:3-4. Don’t depend on things like fancy hairdos or gold jewelry or expensive clothes [outward adorning] to make you look beautiful. 4Be beautiful in your heart by being gentle and quiet [with a calm temper and contented mind]. This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special [precious in His sight]. (GNT) It’s not that God objects to putting our best foot forward so to speak or trying to look our best at any age, but His Word suggests an attractiveness plan.
- Does your attractiveness plan include a gentle and quiet spirit with a calm temper and contented mind or demeanor? Ask the Holy ‘Spirit to help you. Ephesians 5: 22 says, the fruit of the Holy Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, and more in our lives.
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourseldinJOY.com. * For all Esther & Turnaround JOY podcasts click here: * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such A Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and Joy*
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Working on the SabbathA Moment with Scripture- Jn. 5:1-18 By Deacon David Hockwalt
Working on the Sabbath. Jesus had gone up to Jerusalem, where there was a pool known as Bethesda. These waters were thought to have curative power. Jesus sees a paralytic at the pool of Bethesda that had been ill for a very long time. He had trouble getting to the pool. At Jesus’ command, he was healed without going to the pool. He got up on his feet and picked up his mat, and walked for the first time in 38 years.
God is showing that he is bringing salvation to his people through his son. The local Jewish authorities were mad at the man for carrying his mat on a Sabbath day, violating a law. One could not carry a burden out of one’s house or through the city gate. The healing miracle that had just taken place did not seem to count in their eyes. You might want to ask yourself if you focus on something substantial or trivial. Jesus is in trouble for violating the Sabbath and blasphemy. He called God his own father, making himself equal to God. Jews wanted to kill Jesus. Jesus brought healing, forgiveness, and divine judgment to the world at the risk of his own life. What are we willing to risk to be a disciple of Jesus?
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Don’t Believe the LiesDon’t Believe the Lies. Margaret Vasquez’s Testimony. When Satan can get us to question God’s goodness and who He is as our Good Father and who we are as His beloved children, anything is possible in a really bad way. It goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden. It’s the tactic he used against Adam and Eve, and he tried it again when he tempted Jesus in the desert. Satan is not the creator and he isn’t creative. He does the same things over and over. His desire is for disunity because Jesus longs that we be one, as He prayed at the Last Supper. Satan wants to separate us from God and each other by causing division within our own minds and hearts.
Sometimes the painful circumstances of life tell us lies and when that happens often enough and from important people in our lives, we can fall into believing them. The breakdown in connection to ourselves directly affects our relationship with God because, as St. Thomas Aquinas says, “What is received is received according to the mode of the receiver.” If our ‘mode’ becomes one of ‘I don’t belong’ or ‘I’m not lovable’, then we tend to interpret events and interactions with others in that light. This even applies in terms of how we relate to the Lord.
I went through a lot of abuse in childhood and young adulthood – even from people in the Church. The resulting disconnection with myself, the Lord, and others left me vulnerable to a same sex relationship and the pain and shame of it all made going to Church so painful that I stopped going for 6 years. That caused even greater sense of disconnection and pain. It was a vicious cycle until the Lord sovereignly broke in and reestablished my foundational identity as being chosen, known, valued, protected, and provided for by Him. He completely removed all same sex attraction and showed me it was rooted in a lack of connection to myself.
Don’t believe the lie that it is how you were born and not something that can be healed.
The Lord said, “Behold, I make ALL things new.” – Revelation 21:5. Nothing is impossible to Him.
This is my testimony to His love, His power, His grace, His healing, and His infinite, unearned mercy in my life.
Thanks for listening. To God be the glory!
- Margaret
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Testimony of Lily LohLily Loh was born in China, the youngest daughter of 10 children from a devout Buddhist family. Her amazing conversion story to Catholicism has led her through four continents with an innate awareness that God was always watching over her.
Lily’s family moved from China to avoid Communism when she was a young child. They moved to Brazil, South America. She was a sickly child but with much nurturing was able to overcome the ills that she endured. Lily speaks three languages: Mandarin, Portuguese, and English.
She attended St. Mary’s College in Leavenworth, Kansas, and received her B.S. from Purdue University in Indiana and M.A. from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.
Lily was a prayer minister at St. James Church in Solana Beach, CA and the Christian Healing Center in Vista, CA for many years. She was also a member of the Order of St. Luke and the Association of Christian Therapists. She has authored three books: Lily Loh’s Chinese Vegetables and Seafood, Listen to God Daily, Listen to Jesus Daily. Lily is a widow and lives in Palo Alto, CA. Lily has a son and a daughter and four grandsons.
The three books Lily has written can be viewed and purchased on Amazon.
Listen To God Daily
All the proceeds of her books go to the Seminarians of the Eudist priests.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Prayer Warrior ~ Episode 246Are you a prayer warrior? The military raises leaders and those who have physical strength, stamina, and endurance in their physical lives. How can we apply this to our spiritual life? Are we spiritually tough?
Visit MediaAngels.com for books and information that will help you in your spiritual journey here and here.
As I’ve shared, my son is in the military and currently in Ranger School, trying for the Army Ranger Tab. This is a grueling sixty-day trial of body, mind, and spirit. It causes good men to dig deep, and it helps if they have a deep relationship with the Lord.
This Lent, I have traveled a path of praying alongside my son. I have journaled consistently, searched the Sacred Scriptures, and been on my knees in church praying for his needs and the Lord’s provision.
I have learned from talking to him during one of his brief breaks after passing the first section and moving on to the second that he has never prayed so much in his life. Being sleep-deprived, sleeping outdoors, eating freeze-dried foods, and not having enough to eat really wreaks havoc on a person’s physical and mental well-being.
Yet it has taught me that we can apply what a soldier goes through to our own prayer lives and become prayer warriors! Soldiers must endure, sacrifice, persevere, and be brave when facing danger. They continue onward when many would call it quits. There is no choice but to continue forward; that is a lesson for all of us. When times are tough, we continue on, and we ask the Lord for His help. We can endure with our Lord’s help. Sacrifice, such as fasting, brings us closer to God. If we persevere through our anguish, we will find hope on the other side, and as for danger? We must pray that our minds are open so that we can recognize and avoid it.
Prayer Warrior TipsHere are some things I find helpful.
- A blank personal pocket book. I purchased small little lined books that I keep in my purse and clip a pen to the book. On the back of the book, the last page or the cover, I list the people I want to pray for each day. This can be for specific prayer requests, deceased loved ones, or those needs that are dear to your heart. That way, I can flip to the back of the book daily to pray.
- A consistent prayer time. These are things you do each day. If you pray first thing (before or after a cup of coffee or tea), or maybe on your way to church, at church, and maybe a few minutes afterward.
- Fasting along when seeking the Lord for His will, or when in prayer for a special intention or for a need.
- Keep familiar scriptures in your mind that are encouraging. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:10-12 ADD MORE HERE
- Never quit. We know God is faithful; we know He is there for us even when things seem hard or problems are insurmountable. We must persevere in the face of hardship while acknowledging that while our feelings are legitimate, we must look for the greater good.
When we think about being prayer warriors, we should also consider praying the right way when someone asks. If you have a friend who is having surgery or struggling with a personal issue and asks you to pray, stop and pray immediately. If you do not have time, a simple “Jesus, please provide for her needs.” And then, when you have more time, be intentional in your prayer.
- Send a text message with a prayer.
- Send an email message with a prayer.
- Send a card and tell them you are praying.
Prayer warriors also put on the armor of God. We protect ourselves from the enemy with prayer. We get our strength from God, not from ourselves. When we pour into others, we become depleted, but if we are connected to the Holy Spirit, living water flows through us.
If you have time, become a prayer warrior – ask your family how you can pray. Join a prayer group, or online prayer support chain. Start one yourself. We started a text prayer chain for my son with our immediate family. I even called it Mike’s Prayer Warriors. (f you listen to this podcast, you know Michael’s voice; he does the introduction to this podcast as well as what we call the outro – so please join me in praying for his safety and those of our military and first responders.)
We can be first responders for the Lord. Our strength is in God. Our hope is in God, and our prayers are the result of our repentance from sin and the hope in Christ. Jesus, I trust in You!
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Queen Esther ~Refusal of Bad AdviceWhat can you learn from Queen Esther? Do you need more wisdom and less bad advice in your life? Do you seek God, who offers wisdom generously to those who ask? Today, we will encounter the outrageous King Ahasuerus, who regrets the outcome of his bad decision based on bad advice! Join us as we discuss the true wisdom from God that does not disappoint.
The Party (Esther 1: 1-8)Welcome to Esther & Turnaround Joy Episode #2 based on my book Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY. The Book of Esther in the Old Testament was written so that even 2500 years later, we can still relate it to our culture. We can learn so much from Queen Esther.
Today we continue in Esther Chapter 1 with our introduction to the pompous and extravagant King Ahasuerus and the opulent six-month party he threw in the capital city of Susa (modern day Iran) in the third year of his reign. Ancient historians suggest over 15,000 men came to the party that lasted 187 days. In the midst of the grand party, the king received and followed bad advice. In the podcast today, we will cover these points.
Vashti’s Refusal (Esther 1: 9-12)* Queen Vashti was in the midst of throwing a grand party herself for the wives of governors, nobles, and officials that came to the king’s celebration when the king called her to appear before an unruly, intoxicated horde of men to show off her beauty. * She refused to come for reasons we might guess. * When she refused, she did not expect the king’s boiling rage!
The Bad Advice to the King (Esther 1: 13-21)* King Ahasuerus’ wise men, led by their spokesman Memucan, advised the king to dethrone and remove Vashti forever. Guided by his wounded pride, with no respect for his wife, the king followed this bad advice and dethroned Vashti. * The Scriptures teach women to honor and respect their husbands and men to love their wives (Ephesians 5: 25, 3). But the king was a pagan consumed with pride and self-indulgence who did not know God’s commands or God’s ways. * Greek Historian Herodotus records that King Ahasuerus won a great battle after this feast, but later suffered a terrible loss to the Greeks during the four years that occurred between Esther Chapters One and Two. * The King returned home from battle and likely consumed himself with even more indulgence and sensuality, only to find he missed a lasting relationship with his lovely wife.
Personal Reflection. Where do you need wisdom today? Our historical story teaches us: 1. Be cautious when taking counsel from worldly advisors who stroke your ego or are motivated by a desire for power. 2. Be courageous and maintain your integrity in difficult situations. 3. Anger and violence do not demonstrate strength in a husband or a leader. * Proverbs 3: 5-7, James 1: 5, and Proverbs 3:17 instruct us to ask God for wisdom who promises to give it generously and ungrudgingly and to lead YOU and clear the road for YOU to follow*.
Links You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPYourseldinJOY.com. * For all Esther & Turnaround JOY podcasts click here: * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY*
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Repentance Those Hurt by Church LeadershipRepentance is important, especially if you have been hurt by church leaders. I was away from the Church for a number of years because of the abuse I suffered at the hands of Church leadership. Maybe you or someone you love is in that same place in their walk. During that time, annual programs welcomed Catholics back to the Church. I felt that there was a step missing, that of acknowledging the hurt done by those in leadership. This is what we extend to you today.
If someone in Church leadership offended you, I am so sorry for your pain or abuse. Those in Church leadership have every bit as much of an ability to hurt people as anyone does. People are still people, no matter what title they hold. However, because of the roles they hold, those in leadership can wound us in the depths of our person, in the core of our spirituality. They are meant to represent the Lord, so it can almost make us feel like God abused us, as crazy as that may sound. Sometimes, even sacred art, music, and sacramentals can become triggering.
Repentance HealsOn behalf of the Church, Fr. David Tickerhoof and I acknowledge the pain and hurt you’ve endured and ask for your forgiveness. We don’t want you to remain separated anymore. No matter how little you might think you are, you are a crucial part of the Body of Christ, and we need you! No member of the human body is disposable, and nor are you. You are an essential member.
You actually have a special ability to minister to others who have experienced pain. I remember something the Lord told me at one point when I was suffering because of those in the Church. He said, “Everything you want from the Church, I want you to be that for the Church.” It immediately refocused me on the Good Shepherd rather than the sheep. Please return and extend that compassion you deserve to receive to those who are in the spot you were.
This Easter, we invite you to consider coming back to the Lord. It doesn’t mean the hurtful way you were treated is right or doesn’t matter. I invite you to think of that as our Good Father bringing you back into His House. He can restore. He does make ALL things new.
May the Lord give you peace!
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Testimony of Rosalind MossTestimony of Rosalind Moss, Sr. Miriam of the Lamb of God Mother Miriam of the Lamb of God, as she is now called, is known to many in the Catholic world. Born and raised in a Jewish home in Brooklyn, New York, Rosalind Moss embraced Jesus as the Messiah of the Jewish people as an adult. Her initial conversion interrupted a successful 15-year business career as an executive with corporations in New York and California. She changed course, beginning a full-time Evangelical ministry and earning a master’s degree in Ministry from Talbot Theological Seminary. Then, a series of events inthe summer of 1990 set her on a course to find out if theCatholic Church was, in fact, the Church Christ established 2,000 years ago. After 18 years of Evangelical Protestantism, she entered the Catholic Church in Easter 1995.
Since that time, she has traveled the world speaking and teaching through conferences, parish missions, women’s and family retreats, and all forms of media. From July 1999 to May 2008, Sister Rosalind was a full-time staff apologist with Catholic Answers and remains to this day a guest of the semi-monthly radio program “From the Heart” on Catholic Answers Live. She is the editor of Home at Last, 11 Who found their Way to the Catholic Church, co-host of EWTN‘s Household of Faith and Now That We’re Catholic!, host of Reasons for Our Hope: A Bible Study on the Gospel of Luke, and author of the Bible Study book by the same title.
On the Feast of the Queenship of Mary, August 22, 2008, the Daughters of Mary, Mother of Israel’s Hope, took root in St. Louis, Missouri, at the invitation of then Archbishop, now Cardinal, Raymond Burke. Following Cardinal Burke’s departure to Rome and her own novitiate term, Sister Rosalind, at the invitation of Bishop Edward Slattery, moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to establish the community’s foundation in what will become their permanent home.
On the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, September 8, 2011, Bishop Edward Slattery received Sister Rosalind’s Triennial Vows, approved her name in religion, Mother Miriam of the Lamb of God, and decreed the Daughters of Mary, Mother of Israel’s Hope to be a Public Association of the Faithful.
Mother Miriam is now Prioress of their first home in northeast Tulsa, henceforth known as the Priory of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
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Temptation is Real ~ Episode 245All around me, I see that temptation is real, and the fallout is serious sin. But friends, we cannot become complacent, even if we are walking with the Lord; this podcast explores the meaning of temptation as it applies to our lives and what the Scriptures say.
One of our pastors reminds us that faith is not just a feeling but an action. This is true on so many levels. It is a choice, and I must decide whether I will follow the Lord or myself each day. What do you think temptation means? Does temptation mean doing something wrong, perhaps allowing ourselves to be swayed by the evil one? Something that is sinful or self-destructive? Each of us struggles with temptation of some sort, whether it is food, overindulgence in alcohol, laziness, or slothfulness. We don’t even need to leave home to be tempted.
Some believe their faith will save them from sin, which is only partially correct. Yes, faith helps, absolutely, but faith can also be used as an excuse to fall into depression, with the idea, “How could God allow that to happen to me?” Our faith is like a shield, but the decision is ultimately ours to choose correctly. Sometimes our trials are overwhelming, and it is our faith that keeps us together, that keeps us whole. Why do we want to avoid temptation? Maybe this verse will give us the needed nudge.
Ephesians 2:3 (Read on Air) –
Who wants to be known as a child of wrath? The early Christians had their eyes opened, and then, afterward, they were aware of their sin. Once they were infilled with the Holy Spirit, this wisdom from the Lord allowed them to see the sin they did not think was an issue beforehand. The early Christians taught others. The words which we read in the Bible are powerful and obviously came from God. We are taught the Word of God pierces our hearts like a two-edged sword and is convicting, and those words made an impact and changed lives. In the busyness of this world, we must make the time to allow those words to also penetrate our hearts so that our eyes can be opened. This doesn’t mean we are free from temptation, only that we can identify and avoid it.
We have all sinned, and we have all been tempted. Some of us are stronger than others at avoiding sin, and God knows our hearts. He hears our prayers and knows our weaknesses, but sadly so does the enemy. In the last podcast, I discussed a hardened heart. A hardened heart is us being stubborn; we want what we want. When we follow our own path and our own inclinations, sometimes we stumble or take the wrong turn; how do we avoid this regarding temptation?
An aside here, those who are stronger at avoiding temptation do several things,
- They pray and seek God, whether it is in the Bible, in talking to the Lord
- Surrounding yourself with like-minded people and attending church.
- Put on the armor of Christ; this means putting on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit—Ephesians 6:11-17 (read on air).
- Identify your weaknesses and avoid them. Not falling into temptation means avoiding the near occasion of sin.
- Pray against temptation with a simple prayer such as, “Lord, forgive me for my sins in thought, word, and deed.”
In Proverbs 28:14 (read on air)
Let’s look at that passage, how can you guard yourself? Take a few moments and think about this…guarding yourself means being aware, to avoid occasions of sin. This can mean so many things; it can mean avoiding people you know are trouble. I read a funny meme on social media that had a picture of two women, and it said, “partners in crime,” Then it went on to say, “If we get caught, I am deaf, and you do not speak English.” While it might make us smile, it reminds me that there are people I should avoid, and while that doesn’t make us popular, it is important. In college, I was called “mom” because my friends said taking me out with them reminded me of having their mom with them! All those years at the feet of my Italian grandmother and learning from my parents that faith was more than a building we attended Mass at; it was a lifestyle. Something that can be eroded with the wrong influence but should not be forgotten.
Our pastor said he was with a group of people at a social gathering, and one man began to tell an inappropriate joke, so he excused himself and began to walk away. He said he was not allowing himself to be put into this awkward position, but that same man came to him later, apologized, and recognized this was an area of weakness. He wanted to be liked and noticed by others, and he thought this was one way to do it. He was counseled that it was not!
James 1:12 – the trials of temptation while all around us and can be a source of struggle we must pray that we are spared and pray for fortitude and strength – Blessed is the man who perseveres when he is tempted, for when he has been proven, he will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
It is not easy, and no one said life is easy. Some think that becoming a Christian should come with blessings and rewards. It does, but not always in the way we want. A Christian walks the road less traveled, which may make you unpopular with friends, but in my case, my friends (the same ones who called me “Mom”) elected me as president of our sorority and other council positions. Did they want someone responsible, or did they want the party girl? Sure, responsibility comes with a price, and it is up to us to do the best we can, but unfortunately, that best depends on what we know. We can’t be expected to avoid temptation when we can’t identify it or if we don’t care. That is part of the problem in the Catholic and Christian circles, the “church” has been blamed for the failure of educating the youth, but I truly believe the education of Christian morals and values belongs totally in the home. Do your children know the Bible? Did you teach them about the lives of godly men and women, those who the Bible and we call saints? Do children know the difference between Noah and Moses? I had a class of 7th graders tell me that Noah was the one with the parted red sea. We had to do a quick overview of Bible history.
I was blessed to grow up with Bible stories instead of fairy tales, and I learned my Bible history at home. My faith was praying with my family for every little thing – faith by example. So, as Christians, we are called to a higher standard. I’m talking about myself as well as all of you.
Matthew 6 is the Lord’s prayer, and the last part states… and do not lead us into temptation… We are delivered by our awareness and decision, and that is faith. Faith is a decision.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus asked his apostles to stay awake for one hour, but unfortunately, they were unable, yet he said in Matthew 26:41 (Read on air.)
Our flesh is weak, and the enemy knows how to tempt us, especially if we try fasting. Fasting calls to mind our prayer whenever we want to eat the food. When we avoid that food, we learn how to pray specifically and avoid temptation—avoiding the food instead of eating it.
One of the podcasts I listen to is Wholeness and Holiness – and recently, the topic was “Into the Desert with Jesus.”
She discussed sin and temptation in the desert when the enemy was with the Lord, and he said, “If you are the Son of God.” In other words, Jesus, do you know who you are? In this way, the enemy was trying to trick the Lord into proving He is the Son of God – Jesus knows His identity; he does not need to prove it.
When we don’t know who we are, when we give into temptation, it is because we have lost our identity. We either do not have confidence in who we are or think that doing whatever temptation will fix the issue. For example, a young person who gives into peer pressure by doing drugs or drinking alcohol to fit in – because everyone else is doing it.
If we are confident in our identity, if we know we are indeed sons and daughters of the Almighty, we are part of a Holy Family, then we don’t need those things to make us feel better about ourselves.
This is part of the relationship with God – if we are confident in our relationship, we will be strong. If we believe that God is there and we are here, he is a loving and distant God, then that won’t work in the here and now.
Friends, we as Christians have been given a powerful tool: the understanding that God is with us; he is for us, so who can be against us? Romans 8:31 (Read on air.) Who Can Separate Us from the Love of Christ? What, then, can we say in response to all this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
We need to shore up the troops, get your family on board, be united instead of divided, and conquer the issue head-on. If you are struggling with something major, ask your family to help.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (read on air).
I have asked the Lord for help when I have felt that I could not handle it anymore when things were hard. The temptation was a spiritual one, and that was negativity to give in to self-pity, or depression, to feel that no one cares and I was in “this” alone. Have you been there? Have you been in the depths of despair without a way out? One of the biggest issues for the elderly is loneliness. In the past, there were multi-generational families. I feel that this is a missing element in our family life today.
We may struggle with certain sins and temptations; these are ones we should identify and become aware of; in a past podcast, I shared an episode called Victory Over Sin and discussed these issues and the trap we fall into.
I want to leave you with this encouragement from 1 John 1-2
Avoiding temptation is a blessing, and it makes us stronger. And I pray this helps you make wise and beneficial decisions for your journey with the Lord.
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Leaven Pharisees ~ A Moment In ScriptureJoin us for Leaven Pharisees with Deacon David Hockwalt as he discusses Mk. 8:14-21
Leaven Pharisees. If there is one, this story’s theme is ‘missing the point.’ The disciples forgot to bring bread with them. Jesus reminded them of the multiplication miracles they witnessed. The disciples did not absorb Jesus’ earlier teaching that the Father will always provide for their needs as long as they focus on seeking the kingdom. Don’t worry about the bread; focus on the leaven is Jesus’ point. He is referring to spiritual leaven, not earthly leaven. It also warns us not to be the leaven that hinders our understanding and acceptance of Jesus’ teaching.
DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained as a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
We pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this reflection. Magnificat, taken from Luke: 1, is the great hymn of praise that Mary prayed while visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. We trust that this reflection will help us all better understand that we are truly children of God, made in His image and likeness. We want to come together in God’s presence and proclaim that the Almighty has done great things for you and me, and holy is His Name!
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs
(ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit
store.magnificat-ministry.net
The post Leaven Pharisees appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Our Identity in christOur identity is crucial to our personal wholeness and growth in holiness. It’s a buzzword these days in secular society. No matter who we are, how we live is going to flow from our identity. Another way to say it is we behave according to who we believe we are. For this very reason, the foundation of our human and spiritual integration is tied to who God is. We have to get more foundational than the fact that we are his sons and daughters. We must know what He’s like!
These days genealogy and DNA testing are ways that people might choose to come to know more about their ancestors. Learning more about the people they came from sheds light on how they see and understand themselves. How much more does it reveal to us who we are by coming to know who God is?! After all, we are made in His image and likeness, as Genesis tells us. God is good and not only good, but it’s impossible to conceive of any greater good than He!
Parents image God for us, yet none of us have had perfect parents. So, many times we have somewhat of a less-than-perfect picture. Sometimes it can be quite difficult to know in our hearts that God is deeply good. When we’ve experienced hurt at the hands of parents or those in authority, it can color how we see Him. That can happen even without our conscious awareness and even when we are very educated in Theology or are clerics or religious.
One thing I have found helpful and often recommend to clients is to consider ways our parents behaved that were painful and prayerfully. Make a list. Mom was like this, but God is like that. Dad was like this, but God is like that. Perhaps you’ll have a list of a number of things from both parents. Seeing down on paper how differently God is and acts toward us from hurtful ways we experienced authority can be an important first step in untwisting confusing messages we took on as children or young adults.
From there, we consider who He is and who we are to Him. Sometimes give this a try. Sit in God’s presence and imagine Jesus there with you praying for the Our Father together. It’s astounding to think that when I pray “Our” Father, I am praying with Jesus to God, His Father and my Father. Let’s take some time to let that reality pierce our hearts and ground us in our identity as a son or daughter of a GOOD Father!
May the Lord give you peace!
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Sandy OursoSandy Ourso was born in Shreveport, LA, where she spent her early years. She attended Baptist church services every Sunday till she was 15 yrs. old. She received a wonderful foundation in her faith. The world’s cares lured her away from the boredom of church services. At the age of 20, she was a self-proclaimed agnostic. She married and moved to Dallas. For the next ten years, she lived her life according to the world’s definition. She had a great job. She was a newspaper reporter and editorial writer. She enjoyed an income that allowed her to satisfy every whim. She and her husband spent their spare time traveling, going to concerts, movies, and the theatre, dining at fine restaurants and partying with friends, and acquiring material possessions. At the age of thirty, after reading an interview with Francis Shaeffer, she began the pursuit of a new direction in her life. She was searching for answers, and God met her at a talk given by Schaeffer. The last statement he made changed her life and set her off on a Paul to Damascus experience. She rediscovered the stories of the bible and attended non- denominal churches again. She remarried after a divorce and had a child at the age of 43. You will be amazed by Sandy’s story of how she found her way to the Catholic Church.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Turnarounds for Your LifeDo You Need Turnarounds in Your Life? Are you struggling to find faith and courage? Esther will show you how. Join me in our new series starting today based on the Book of Esther. It’s a wonderful study for Lent. It is about trusting in God, interceding in prayer, and receiving strength to stand firm amid Life’s challenges. It is about gentle leadership, discernment, and how God give can give you reversals in situations and relationships. Esther is a book of faith, hope and joy!
This is the TimeWelcome to Esther & Turnaround Joy Episode #1 based on my book Esther For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY. Just when we wonder, “Where is God in our lives or our families or our communities,” Esther reminds us that God never abandons us. He is faithful. If you have never read or studied Esther before, now is a goodtime to start. You cannot depend on movies depicting Esther because some are more fictional than historically accurate. You will gain so much more by reading it yourself as the lessons from Esther are so encouraging. And of course, there is a JOYFUL ending. Today we will cover these points:
The Backdrop for Esther (Esther 1: 1-3) In the days of Ahasuerus (Esther 1:1) refers to the reign of King Ahasuerus who historically ruled the world as King of the Persian Empire* from 486 to 465 BC. In Greek, his name was Xerxes. * The Persians led by Cyrus the Great, the grandfather of Ahasuerus, had defeated the Babylonian Empire of King Nebuchadnezzar, who had taken the Jewish people captive to Babylon beginning in 605 BC. Cyrus the Great had a relaxed attitude toward the Jewish people and allowed them to return to Jerusalem or move to other places. Some went back to Jerusalem. Some scattered throughout Europe. Some stayed in Persia and learned to fit into its culture. This is where we meet Esther.
The Lavish Party (Esther 1: 4-8)* King Ahasuerus resided in Susa—one of the three royal cities in the Persian. * He threw the lavish party, mostly to inspire patriotism and show off his wealth and splendor to his military leaders so they would give him support for going to war against Greece as history tells us. * An old tradition stated that only as the king drank could the rest of the party drink, but at his party, all were instructed to drink freely. The golden goblets used for serving the wine may very well have been the sacred goblets seized from the Jewish temple in Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar in 605 BC (see Daniel 1). Now, they were being used in a very unholy way, by a very pagan king!
Personal Reflection.* King Ahasuerus was trying to make himself a god in power, prestige and more. * He did not know or refused to acknowledge the truth that God loves us dearly but as Proverbs 15:3 points out: “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good” or Hebrews 4:13, saying: “And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” * So my questions for reflection today are: + Do you wonder where God is when you see the world focused on self-image, power and prestige? + Do you get discouraged when it appears God is silent about all the evil in the world? + When God seems silent, do you turn your attention to the party—that is to the worldly distractions that can take you away from God, faith and family?
Prayer Response1. Read and pray with Psalm 103: 15-22. Try to memorize the verse that speaks most to you. 2. Seek God. When you think he is silent as the world parties on, open yourself more to God. Remember only God our heavenly Father, Jesus our Savior and the Holy Spirit can offer you the true Joy, Peace, Love, and Fulfillment that the world is seeking as epitomized by King Ahasuerus. When you are lonely and confused or frustrated, talk to Jesus from your heart. Ask Him for what you need. Remember Jesus’ words in John 15: 11: As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. (You may want to listen to my podcast season #1 series, Finding JOY.) * You can download Bookmarks from this podcast series at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com. * Check out more podcasts here! * Click here to find the book: Es*th*er For Such a Time As This: Prayer, Reversals and JOY
The post Esther & Turnaround JOY # 1 – The Backdrop & the Party: Turnarounds for Your Life appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Harden Not Your HeartHave the verses,”harden not your heart,” given you pause? Have you felt that the Lord is leading you in some way, but you just don’t feel like following? In this podcast, Felice leads you through some thoughts and prayers for getting back on track.
Recently a situation came up in my life that made me realize I was not following the Lord’s leading as I should. It has happened to me throughout the years and so it was easy to recognize when it began to happen again. Have you ever felt like that? You know, or you feel like you know what the Lord wants you to do, but then you decide to do something else, or maybe not act on what the leading is.
First let’s look at several Scriptures that discuss this. Hebrews 3:14-16 (Read on Air)
And, Hebrews 4:6-8
Have You Heard the Words, Harden Not Your Heart in Prayer?This hardening of heart for me was in regard to a thought one time and another time an action. I felt the Lord was leading me in a specific direction, and there was uncertainty on my part to say yes. Here is one example I can give you, as a young mom, I was involved in many volunteer organizations, at church, and at a women’s group. I was selected to be on a group that would tackle educational issues. Since I homeschooled my children, I was the perfect candidate first because I had an education degree, and secondly, because I didn’t have any ties to the local education system. However, I had this feeling that it would not be well received at home, and I was right; my husband was not a fan of this new “honor.” In my mind, rationalizing it, I felt the Lord had prepared me and put me in an ideal position to make real change. But after talking to my husband, I felt unsettled. My heart was unsettled. I lacked peace. It took some deep soul-searching and some extensive conversations with my husband before I let it go. Then the peace came.
I’ve had other situations where I did not feel peace after making a big decision, yet I knew that if it was God’s will, it would happen regardless. One bad decision, in retrospect, was after seeing what I felt was a God thing and then ignoring it. My heart was hardened because I knew what I wanted to do – and did it.
If the previous two verses are not enough to make you prayerfully think – let me read this next one.
Jeremiah 16:12 says, (Read on Air.)
That is a wake-up call for all of us – so how do we check, and how do we know if we have a hardened heart? We can learn so much from the Scriptures. And God gives us multiple chances to return to him and to change our ways, as we can read in the passages of Hebrews and Jeremiah, and we have the option to turn back.
But you may be asking, how do we know? How do we know if we are hardening our hearts?
Here are some ways you can check your motivation and heart.
- Are you walking with the Lord? Do you have time for prayer, reflection, and reading Scripture or some other spiritual book?
- Do you have a gut feeling that something is not right? A feeling of hopelessness?
- Do you have a restlessness you can’t put your finger on?
- Do you avoid thinking about the issue at hand and bury it under the guise of being busy or not dealing with the problem?
- Do you suffer from stubbornness? Ask someone close to you; it is hard to figure this out for yourself.
Any of these things can lead to a hardness of heart. Avoiding an issue, not making time for prayer, ignoring your sense that something is not right, restlessness, or avoiding thinking through the issues can then be compounded by helplessness. Some problems are serious and out of our hands, but yet it is important to prioritize time to pray. If nothing else, for yourself so you can get tuned in to God.
In the New Testament, we also read about hardened hearts – but even in the midst of Christ! You would think that having Jesus in your company and being with him day after day would be an eye-opener. Sitting there first hand, watching the miracles and the teachings, but in Mark 8:16-18 (Read on air). The apostles had Jesus in their midst, and still, they didn’t realize that all they had to do was ask, and he would provide for them. This verse gives me hope. It tells me that it was not uncommon to have hearts that were hardened, and there is hope for us because, unlike the disciples, when we do not have bread, we can pray for that bread, that crumb of knowledge, that assurance that God is with us and in our midst.
We read in Isaiah 6:10 (Read on air) We want what we want. I know I pray, but often it truly is, “Lord, please do my will.” With my son in the military, still in training but nonetheless straining when I can’t talk to him for a long stretch of time, I am constantly on my knees – our family has a prayer chain where I post prayer requests each day and a Scripture verse, but it is truly asking the Lord to bless, provide, and allow my son success in this training – Often I remind myself to go to the beginning of the prayer and type in words, Praise You and Thank-you Jesus for all you have provided.
So how should we pray? In Ezekiel, we see a perfect example, Ezekiel 36:26-27 (Read on Air).
We need that reminder. Are we walking in our own flesh? Are we doing what pleases us above others? I am sure the answer is no for many of you, but even as I read this, I think there are ways I can improve. Please, Lord, give me a new heart and a new spirit! Amen!
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Passion Prophecy Two ~ Episode A Moment in Scripture: Passion Prophesy Two, the Second Prophecy of the Passion Mk.9:30-37 By Deacon David Hockwalt
Jesus and the disciples are making their way from Galilee to Jerusalem. Jesus is privately instructing them in the final and most intensive part of their formation. The first part of instruction concerns his passion and death. Jesus knew what lied ahead for him and ait was important that his disciples understood this. The second part concerns the responsibility to serve and care for those who most need it. If anyone wishes to be first he shall be last of all and the servant of all. Jesus is mysteriously present whenever we welcome them.
DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
We pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this reflection. Magnificat, taken from Luke: 1, is the great hymn of praise that Mary prayed while visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. We trust that this reflection will help us all better understand that we are truly children of God, made in His image and likeness. We want to come together in God’s presence and proclaim that the Almighty has done great things for you and me and holy is His Name!
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
The post Passion Prophecy Two appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Into the Desert with JesusThe Scriptural basis for the 40 days of Lent is found in Jesus’ own going into the desert for 40 days after His baptism. In Matthew 4:1-11 we read (on air).
The devil tempted the Lord toward sensual satisfaction, testing the Father, power, and popularity. These are all ways in which we experience temptation, as well. We have Jesus’ example to follow and can learn something about Satan’s tactics in this.
Satan approached the Lord after He had fasted for 40 days and was hungry. How vulnerable are we when we are worn down? We can expect to be hit with temptations during difficult times and pay special attention to discerning the Lord’s voice at such times, praying, taking authority in Jesus’ Name over anything not of the Lord, and going to brothers and sisters in the Lord to get additional discernment.
It’s particularly interesting that the first two temptations from Satan start with “If you are the Son of God.” Satan isn’t creative. He does the same old thing to us! He starts by getting us to question who God is to us and who we are to Him. When we move away from the truth of our identity in the Lord, we are capable of anything bad thing. We need to keep the fundamental truth of who we are to the Father always before our eyes, along with His provision for us, His protection over us, and His Lordship.
May we journey with Jesus into the desert this Lent, knowing He was tempted like us in every way but did not sin. May we always stay rooted in our identity in who we are to the Father!
May the Lord give you peace!
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Power of Words ~ Episode 243The power of words comes to life in the Gospels, in the healings of Christ, and in the vanquishing of evil. Do we know how to use the words to benefit ourselves and others? In this episode, Felice shares what it means to be used by the Lord in a powerful way.
This episode is sponsored by Media Angels, Inc. – One More Child book — A Few Minutes With God
Have you heard that words have power? Even outside Christian circles, we hear of the power of words in positive thinking and self-help books. Words can be used to build up our own self-esteem, and positive words we are told are good for our health! Words are used to tell stories; in books and conversations, words bring us knowledge.
Even though words are powerful and can bring us knowledge, that does not necessarily mean they bring wisdom. Wisdom is a gift of God, and it is in that gift that the power of words comes. The fountain of wisdom is reading, studying, understanding, and taking the Scriptures (the Word of God) to heart. It allows our faith to be strengthened.
The Bible is called the Word of God, and the Bible has power. Hebrews 4:12 (Read on air.)
God spoke the world into being in the Book of Genesis; with God’s word, the seas parted as Moses, and the Israelites were taken out of Egypt; with the words of Christ, demons were cast out, and people were healed of not only their sins but their illnesses.
But words can be used for evil. We see the effects of evil words in our world today, with the difference between what is true and what is false. Often the words we hear are confusing, and the truth is blurred beyond recognition. Yet, if we are filled with the light of Christ, if we have faith and allow the Lord to work through us, we will have discernment. And, if we know His Word by studying Scripture, we can arm ourselves with the knowledge that truth only comes from God. In fact, the evil that used to be hidden beyond the shadows is now front and center out in the open, and while Christians protest, the evil continues to happen.
We can fool ourselves, but we can not fool God, He knows the intentions of our hearts, and often these intentions spill over into what we say. Changes can happen with the power of words, which can be positive or negative, with overwhelming consequences. If we are not informed, if we do not study the Word of God – if we do not realize that our words have power and can be used in a mighty way for the glory of God, then we are falling short of our mission as Christians.
Words are in prayers; words are in praise a
We must begin by acknowledging that words have power and that a spoken word can heal! I’ve seen it! I’ve seen prayers answered. Words are a gift from God. We can read the Word of God in the Scriptures and learn; we can use this Word to tell others the good news. You and I have a responsibility – we must understand that our words can cause serious damage or good. We can be a positive influence on our own family, our friends, or our place of work. Words can build people up, tear people down or sow discord and confusion. In fact, words have such power that they can be outright dangerous!
In fact, good and true words are often “shut down,” or the new buzzword; now, people are canceled. How can truth be wrong? It can’t. So what do we do? We arm ourselves with that two-edged sword. We arm ourselves with wisdom. If God is the giver of truth, the giver of wisdom which is freely given, we should begin by asking for this grace, similar to what King Solomon did; this is an amazing book of the Bible and shows us through example what can happen by asking in prayer.
We read about King Solomon and how he asked God for wisdom. 1 Kings 5:12 – (Read on air) Then we read about the two women who went before the King, each claiming to have given birth to a child. They asked the King to decide which of them was the true mother. King Solomon recommended cutting the baby in half and giving one half to each, but we read that the true mother gave her child up to the other. The King knew by the true mother’s selfless act that the child was hers.
Following this discourse, we read: 1 Kings 4:30: (read on air_
Why was this? Because God is the giver of wisdom. King Solomon asked, and God delivered.
We read about the wisdom of God in the words of men throughout the Scriptures, and when it is stated, it is followed by the actions being just and righteous, and men were filled with awe.
James 1:5 If someone among you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Throughout the scriptures, we read about wisdom in the book of Judith especially – Judith 11:23 states: (read on air)
Wisdom is given by God in word and in deed. All through Job, we hear about wisdom; there is even the Book of Wisdom in Scripture.
Probably one of the most quoted verses in the book of Job is Job 28:28 (Read on air.)
Psalm 27:30 – The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is right.
How will we use this in our own lives? First, pray to the Lord, “Dear Lord, give me the gift of wisdom and the discernment on how to use it.” This prayer is the beginning. By asking the Lord we are opening our hearts to His will and His providence for us, our lives, and the lives of those we touch. Then as we are filled up, we pour out into others. We ask the Lord to help us with our family, to help us with our neighbors, and those we come into contact with each day.
A friend of ours, a doctor, would pray with his patients. But, first, he asked the Lord if he should pray. He would feel a gentle nudge in his spirit to pray or not to pray. Some people would not be open to prayer, and most came to a doctor for medical treatment, not spiritual treatment. Yet, in his years of practice, God was still using him in a powerful way.
How will you use the words that you have? Only you can decide. The power of words begins with God’s Word, and it ends with us being open to doing God’s will – I challenge you this week to pray for wisdom and the power to use words for the glory of God!
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Lent A New SpringtimeIf you find the time of Lent to be one of heaviness and drudgery, this is the podcast for you! Fr. David and I discuss the beauty of new life that comes from eliminating the distractions and dissipation of life and allowing our hearts to be attracted to the Lord. Jesus, Himself went into the desert to be with His Father in prayer. Each year the Church gives us these 40 days to focus more intently and intentionally on our relationship with the Lord. While the Lenten obligations for Catholics are abstaining from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, and the Fridays throughout Lent and fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, there is so much more available to us.
The three pillars of Lent are prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These are components of the normal Christian life, and yet we focus through them on the Lord in a special way during this season. Why? The why is Love. We are all called to holiness, which is being loved by God, who is love, and being in love with Love. These three areas help us to quiet the competing noise in our life so we can hear the Lord’s call more clearly and follow Him more closely.
Through prayer, we take time away to speak and listen to Him. Try finding fresh ways to spend time with the Lord. Perhaps go for a walk with Him or clear out an area of your house and make it a sacred space with devotional materials, a journal, Scripture, and a blessed candle. Having a designated area for a designated purpose can help us focus and avoid distractions. Fasting from excesses of pleasure and noise can help us become more aware of the Lord as the satisfaction of our souls. We can focus on what we’re giving up, or we can ask the Lord to transform the hunger of our appetite into a hunger for Him. Through almsgiving, we extend to the Lord, ourselves, and others the same compassion Jesus shows us.
Lent is a beautiful time of new life. We are heading through these 40 days to the high Holy Days of the Triduum. We are heading to Calvary with the Lord, and He is with us in our own sufferings and deaths. Let’s embrace this great opportunity with joy and draw through it more closely to His Sacred Heart!
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret Vasquez, LPCC-S, CTT, CITTI
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Testimony of Pat TurbittPat Turbitt, devoted wife, mother and grandmother, registered nurse, and gifted speaker. She organizes and directs weekend retreats for women. With her husband, Donald conducts parish missions and pilgrimages to Europe. Together, they have a preaching, teaching, and healing ministry in Europe through Renewal Ministries. Pat is the founding Coordinator of the Divine Providence Chapter of Magnificat in Providence, Rhode Island.
Pat boasts of the goodness, kindness, and mercy of the Lord. Her testimony is not about her but what Jesus has done in her life. My goal is that you will love Jesus more and more from what you hear. In three parts, I want to share with you before my conversion, what happened when I accepted Christ and how it has changed my life for the better.
Pat is of Portuguese decent. Baptized and confirmed in the Church. She married at the age of twenty- one. She remembers processions in her parish and feasting, so many good memories. Daily Mass was a very important part of her life and praying the Rosary. She prayed the ‘Haily Mary’ with Donald and he proposed to her with a ring. They had three children together. She was nurse in the operating room. At 25 yrs. old had a great trial, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Her legs were very weak. She prayed with desperation. She had many questions about the teaching of the Church. Pat shares how God answered her questions and healed her.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Prayer and Fasting ~ Episode 242Do you like the idea of prayer and fasting? Is it helpful in your Christian walk? In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz shares how scriptures encourage us and ways to grow in our faith through this simple and ancient practice. Perfect as we enter our Lenten Season before Easter.
Visit MediaAngels.com and the personal testimony, One More Child, and the novel, A Few Minutes With God.
I grew up in a household that fasted on specific days a week. For example, on Friday, we didn’t eat meat. This included chicken or pork. This was a remembrance of Good Friday, even though it was not Lent, the 40 days before Easter. Every Friday, we remember that Christ died for our sins and that through his redemptive sacrifice, we have everlasting life if we accept this as truth. This reminder as a child put faith in a real perspective. Especially as a child who did not like fish. Most of the time, I ate some type of egg or pasta.
What is sacrifice? Think about this.
I looked up the word sacrifice in an online dictionary and was astounded to read the first definition was “an act of offering to a deity something precious.” The other definitions had to do with destruction, surrender, or loss. Would you agree that sacrifice means giving up for the sake of something better? When we sacrifice or deny ourselves, we are reminded in a tangible way that there is more than this life. This life is temporary.
Matthew 16:24-26 tells us that sacrifice is taking up your cross to follow Jesus. (Read on air.)
Taking up your cross means bearing your burdens and hardships. It means not complaining when you don’t have to or making do with what you have. It means knowing that our cross is just right for us and that another cross might be too much to bear. The cross is symbolic in this way. Following Christ means taking the road less traveled because it is not easy. The easy road is giving into whatever your “flesh” desires, whether this is food or sinful activities. The old adage, “What would Jesus do,” holds true; we would act differently if Christ were present with us in the flesh. What we fail to remember is that God is everywhere, and there is nowhere you can hide from Him. We learned in the book of Genesis when Adam and Eve tried to hide from God. God is omnipresent; he is always here. God is in the present moment, which is why being present is so important. There is no time and space with God.
Mindblowing, I know.
Matthew 16:24-26 seems like a harsh teaching. But picking up our cross may mean self-denial. What does this look like? We give up a specific food or a sinful activity in prayer and fasting. Giving up food may be difficult; for example, giving up chocolate is sacrificial. We may crave chocolate, and telling ourselves no when we want a piece is not fun, but this reminds us to thank God and praise Him for what He has done for us. Being in a relationship and remaining pure is difficult and means picking up your cross. A cross is different for each person.
This brings us to prayer and fasting. The significance of fasting has Biblical significance from ancient times. Putting on sackcloth and fasting saved everyone, Ester 4:3 (Read On Air.) Even Jesus fasted in the desert before his public ministry, Matthew 4:2 “(Read on air.) That is where the 40 days of Lent before Easter comes from, it is a reminder of the time that Jesus spent in prayer in the desert. Symbolically fasting from something you do daily, whether it is a food or a sinful activity, or even a bad habit (too much social media) is helpful in picking up your cross and following alongside Christ.
Matthew 9: 24-29 (On Air) Some translations leave out the fasting part and include only prayer, but the combination of prayer and fasting is so powerful! It will change your life. So, consider this when you are praying for something of importance or for an unanswered prayer. Give yourself a time period, maybe a week or two, a month or more, whatever that time is. Fasting does not need to be bread and water, although at a certain period of my life, I did this two times a week, once on Wednesday and then on Friday. It was a time of prayer that my husband and I both did for a time. It was truly a blessed time, and we were blessed through the experience. It is not for everyone and should be done only for a specific need. Bring it to prayer before you begin.
Remember, sacrifice is giving up something you don’t want to give up. My husband fasts by giving up soda, which he drinks daily. For me, chocolate is my go-to fast. For you, it may be different. Just remember that prayer and fasting are for a purpose, and fasting to lose weight is different. This type of fasting is for the end goal of your health, perhaps dropping a few pounds, but it is not for the sake of prayer or sacrifice.
God doesn’t need us to fast for Him. He doesn’t only answer prayer that we join to fasting. God is not at our whim waiting for us to command Him to answer our wants, needs, or desires. When people say, “God doesn’t answer my prayers,” that typically translates to, “God isn’t doing what I want Him to do.” It is disappointing not to have your prayers answered and devastating, to say the least. St. Monica prayed for Augustine for over twenty years at least, I’ve heard thirty years, but Augustine was 33 when his mother died. St. Augustine, as he is known now, wrote in his book, “Confessions,” that his mother’s prayers changed him, not his prayers because he was not praying. Augustine did convert to Christianity, became a bishop, a Father of the Church, and later a saint. I can imagine that his mother prayed and fasted for her son. This is a beautiful and true story, and it should give you hope. Monica did not turn her back on God because her prayers were not answered on her timeline.
Will you add prayer and fasting to your walk with the Lord? I challenge you this week to consider it and note in your journal changes, if any, in your spiritual walk! May God be blessed today and always.
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Debra Herbeck ~ TestimonyDebra Herbeck has worked extensively in youth and women’s ministries for the past 25 yrs., evangelizing on college campuses, speaking at high school youth conferences, directing youth camps, and mentoring high school and college-age women. She has spoken at Franciscan University women’s and youth conferences and women’s events throughout the country.
Debra is a newsletter editor for Renewal Ministries and has written articles for New Covenant, Pastoral Ministries, Credo, and Catholic Faith and Family. She and her husband, Peter, recently co-authored a book entitled,’ When the Spirit Speaks, touched by God’s Word.’ She is also the producer for the weekly Catholic television program, ‘The Choice’s We Face,’ co-hosted by Ralph Martin and Peter Herbeck. The Herbeck’s live in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with their four children and are members of Christ the King parish.
Debra Herbeck:Debra Herbreck was born and raised in the Jewish faith with devout Jewish parents. Her whole entire world was Jewish, and she grew up with a very strong cultural identity as a Jew. Her conversion came while in college when she had a personal encounter with Christ. She began her pursuit of truth through reading the bible and help from her college friends, who gave her a better understanding of the Christian faith. She knew saying ’yes’ to Jesus meant saying ‘no’ to all she knew as a Jew. She kept praying, asking God to show her if Jesus was real, and he answered her prayer, and it changed the trajectory of her life as she accepted Christ.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org Magnificat Store.
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Love As Christ Loves ~ Episode 241How can we love as Christ loves? Is it impossible, or is it? In this episode, we explore what true Christian love means to us.
Visit the website at MediaAngels.com for books and products written by Felice Gerwitz, specifically her ministry books, A Few Minutes with God and One More Child. Please share this episode with a friend, and share God’s love with all.
If I asked you, “What is the first thing that pops into your mind when I say, ‘Christ loves?” As always, our answers would be varied.
John 13:34-35
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
In a nutshell, to love as Christ means to love one another and to become Christ’s disciples, not only to learn, by reading the Scriptures, attending a Bible study, or doing a scripture study on your own. It means to look at our lives as a challenge to get better one day at a time. I read a book by a well-known evangelist who claimed that during some seasons of his faith journey, sometimes he just didn’t want to show up for prayer with the Lord. We all go through life struggles that can bring us closer to God or cause us to be stray. Showing up is half the battle.
In past episodes here and here I spoke about forgiveness. The graphic I selected for this podcast is one of Jesus writing in the sand. John 8 is at the Mount of Olives where Jesus went to preach, we read in verse 2-11
2 At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. 3 The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4 and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” 6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
9 At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
11 “No one, sir,” she said.
“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
Another verse that comes to mind shows us how we should love each other. Ephesians 5:25, the entire verse is beautiful, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…” this is an appropriate Scripture as I record this podcast in the month of February. How can this be? We are, after all, sinful creatures, and we fail each other often. In fact, we hurt those we love the most.
To love, you have to care, and to be hurt by love means you care so much that it crushes you when you consider the hurt. But love is more than what happens to us. One definition of love is sacrificial, love gives, and love receives. Some of us love to receive gifts, and others like to give gifts; each of us is a unique gift. Scripture tells us we are created in the likeness and image of God. We are created with a body, soul, and spirit; we crave love, which comes to us unfailingly from Christ.
One of the most recited scripture is John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This beautiful scripture speaks about the love of Christ for us – that sacrificial love. Can you imagine if Christians worldwide would think about loving as Christ loves us? Can you imagine the change in our world?
We can take it further, just within our own families first and then our larger social circle, those at school, at work, and the people we meet in the grocery store. We can go against the flow and pray to the Lord for grace for this! We are so blessed, and we do not see it, but if we did we would give to others. It does not have to cost money. A smile can brighten someone’s day, and a hug goes a long way toward healing hurts. We are so wounded that we forget that others are hurting as well. Christ’s love for us continues to pour out upon all of us – it wasn’t a one-time thing, sure His sacrifice was one time, but the effects of his sacrifice are everlasting.
1 John 4:16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
Can we abide in God’s love? It is never too late. No matter what sin or anger we have in our hearts, there is forgiveness. It can start right now. Today, with a decision to turn away from what the Bible calls sin. Our world says nothing is sinful if you want to do it – just go for it. But in this mindset, we see that some are givers and others are takers, which frustrates all. The givers are upset. They give with nothing in return, and the takers never think it is enough.
Corinthians 3:14 – And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Love binds everything together. That is why romance books and Hallmark movies permeate the stores and airwaves. Everyone wants to love and be loved. Everyone wants that unconditional love that the Scriptures talk about, but no one wants to love unconditionally! While we can love and have sacrificial love, it is difficult to love when we get nothing back. However, we can not outgive our God. He is mighty and immense, and His love knows no bounds. Try it; try to give God your love, your trust, your time, and your gifts. Ask God what you can do to serve Him. Watch what happens.
It may not be today, but it will be at some point in time when you least expect it. Have you looked back on the previous year to see the hand of God in your life? As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20 – we may not see the miracles in our life right now, but we will see them in the future.
My son is in the Army Rangers program; this week has been the longest week of my life. He had to pass this week’s challenges to be an RS – a Ranger Student. In the private group, the administrators shared what they were going through. As I was praying for him, I thought, as Christ gave us His sacrifice for our sins, so too did the military, the police, and sheriffs, the firefighters, the first responders put their lives on the line for others. This is their job, yes. But it is Christ-like, it is loving as Christ loves. These little aha moments are so amazing when we pray and ask God for His grace. (As an aside, please pray for my son that he successfully makes it through all three stages of this journey.)
So, friends, our choice is to love as Christ loves or to follow our own way. My choice is to follow Christ’s example. This week I urge you to think about Christ’s love and look at the Scripture verses, not only those I shared but those that you find on your own in the Bible. Journal about it and think about what you have learned, what God is teaching you!
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Response to Powerlessness ~ Don’t Waste Suffering!Our response to powerlessness. There’s a pattern I’ve noticed as a therapist and experienced personally. It’s a deeply frustrating pattern, but it’s quite typical for us as human beings. When we experience the suffering that comes from being powerless in painful circumstances, the natural fear we can tend to feel so often leads us to a place of self-reliance. However, because many situations we do not have the power to affect, this self-reliance can surely fail, leading to an experience of inadequacy that we couldn’t take care of the situation or fix the situation.
When we feel inadequate, the natural result is a sense of shame which leads to hiding and isolating ourselves from others and even the Lord, just as Adam and Eve did in the Garden of Eden. Ultimately, we find ourselves disconnected, even disconnected from who we truly are in the Lord.
Contrast this with when we experience powerlessness and experience those feelings of fear but instead choose to counterbalance the information that the situation is fear-provoking with the fact that God loves us more deeply and profoundly than we can ever fathom! If we go from that fact to the truth of who He is to us as our Good Father and who we are as His beloved daughter or son, then we can trust in and rely on Him.
In that place – knowing that He is with us always and will never leave us orphaned, we experience intimacy with Him. We are truly seen by Him, held precious by Him, and protected and provided for by Him in eternity, even if our life in this world is suffering. We see Him, who He is, and come to value Him for who He is regardless of the outcome of the circumstances. He is the truest, richest reward. This intimacy leads us to gratitude and a deepening of connection to Him, to ourselves, and to others, as well. This fuels the cycle of trusting in Him more readily in the future.
Scripture tells us not to fear. So, what are we to do instead? How can we choose not to fear when circumstances are frightening? Counterbalance the information of that emotion of fear with the truth of God’s love, who He is to you as your Good, Good Father, and who you are to Him as His beloved child. In this way, all suffering is an occasion for intimacy with the Lord.
Don’t waste suffering!
May the Lord give you peace!
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Testimony of Dana Rosemary ScallonDana Rosemary Scallon (born Rosemary Brown; on 30 August 1951, known professionally as Dana, is an Irish singer. While still a schoolgirl, she won the 1970 Eurovision Song Contest with “All Kinds of Everything.” Scallon was born Rosemary Brown in Islington, London, one of seven children. In December 1969, Tom McGrath, producer of the Irish National Song Contest, invited Scallon to try out, feeling that one of the entered songs, the ballad “All Kinds of Everything,” would suit her. Her second attempt to win the Irish contest was a success. Then on Saturday, 21 March 1970, the eighteen-year-old schoolgirl performed the song at the Eurovision finals held in the Amsterdam RAI Exhibition Convention Center before an estimated viewing audience of two hundred million. Perched on a stool while wearing an embroidered white mini-dress, she was the last of twelve contestants to perform that night. After the voting, she was declared the winner with 32 points.
Scallon’s debut album All Kinds of Everything, recorded at Decca Studio in West Hampstead, London, on the weekend of 25 April 1970, was released in June and included four tracks co-written by the singer, as well as a new recording of the album’s title track. Having scored an Irish number one in January 1980 with the song based on the Pope’s motto: Totus Tuus, Latin for Totally Yours, the much larger American Christian market became a possible outlet for her music.
She sang at a Rosary Rally in Palm Beach and was asked to write a theme song for the Rosary. The result was The Rosary, an album released with Heart Beat Records in 1991 that has amassed over a million sales worldwide.
To help celebrate the sixth World Youth Day event held in Denver in 1993, she was invited to sing in the presence of Pope John Paul II the theme song for the occasion, “We Are One Body,” a song she composed herself. She also sang at the World Youth Day celebrations held in Paris in 1997, Toronto in 2002, and Sydney in 2008.
Dana is married to Damien Scallon and has four grown children. She is a former politician who served as a Member of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2004.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.net or Magnificat Store.
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs,
(ex. Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Evangelize Now – Call To Christian Families ~ Episode 240We are called to evangelize now, not next week – not in a few weeks, but now! How are you sharing the explosive news of what the Lord has done in your life with others? Perhaps you need a few minutes to collect your thoughts and consider what Christ has done for you. Perhaps you are a new Christian. All are welcome as Felice shares her thoughts on evangelization.
Visit the website at MediaAngels.com for books and products written by Felice Gerwitz, specifically her ministry books, A Few Minutes with God and One More Child. Please share this episode with a friend; it is a form of evangelization and helping to bring the good news to others.
Last week I shared an amazing story about a friend who was healed of cancer. Not over a long period, virtually overnight. If you missed that podcast, check out Healing Power of God. When we do things like that, share or witness to something incredible that happens in our lives or someone else’s (with their permission), that is a form of evangelization. What is holding you back? Do you feel underqualified? Do you feel that anyone else can do a better job? Maybe you think you don’t have a degree in theology.
In college, I was told that now was my time to work for the Lord. I wasn’t married, I didn’t have adult responsibilities, and now I could dedicate my time to the mission of evangelization. This is great, and yes, this is a perfect time if you are not yet living an adult life with responsibilities. But, it is also an excuse for why we are not available. The time is now; anytime is a good time.
We don’t need fancy degrees or the right words; all we need is the Holy Spirit! When we are around like-minded Christians who love the Lord, it fills us with excitement, and we want to share the good news with others. This isn’t the first podcast I have done on the topic, but this is the first podcast in which I want to discuss our personal needs and that of your family.
Evangelize Now – Personal NeedsYou can’t give what you do not have. If you are burdened or struggling, the first person you need to work on is yourself. You are important in the eyes of God, you are not a mistake, and you are precious in His sight. Psalm 116: 13-16 (read on air)
We must be freed in order to serve. As I’ve shared in many other podcasts, I have turned off the negativity and asked the Lord for help. I’m not naive, and I’m not blind to what is happening in the world, but I ask the Lord to help me to see what He wants me to see and to help where I can and need to help. For example, last year, I donated to two different ministries I had not previously donated to. This is a form of evangelization.
Here are some past episodes on prayer and evangelization:
- Christian Harvest
- Miracles of Faith
- Miraculous Prayers
As we share our needs with the Lord, we may feel down or depressed. THis is not from God, but from the enemy and there is a sure way to combat it!
If you are feeling down and unworthy, here is a simple plan.1. Start with prayer and ask the Lord the ways you have offended Him. 2. Ask for forgiveness: God is merciful, but He is also a just judge, so repent! Let him call these things to mind. Make a list if necessary, go down each of these points, and ask the Lord for forgiveness. Not, “I’m sorry,” but “Will you forgive me.” 3. Accept his Forgiveness, and forgive yourself. The shoulda, woulda, coulda is a killer … Psalm 103:8 states, “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” 4. Fill yourself with uplifting songs, and concentrate on the words. Singing is praising God twice. It can fill us and raise us up to another level of prayer. I did a podcast on Worship and Thanksgiving here 5. Finally, delve into God’s Word. It is the inerrant, infallible, inspired Word of God. It is called the three “i’s” — it is the ultimate authority.
So, now that you are filled up, where do you start? You begin with your family. Again there is a simple plan.
Evangelize Now – Family Needs1. Begin with prayer. Ask the Lord how you can pray for each one. 2. Use a prayer journal. Jot down their needs and read through these each day. 3. Send them a card or a note if they are not living at home. Let them know you are praying for them, and ask for their prayer intentions.
One way we can fight against the enemy is by working on our relationship with God and our relationships with our family or extended family members. Is there someone who has hurt you? Pray a blessing on them. Is there someone that you have hurt? Ask for their forgiveness and repent. Sometimes that family member is gone, and there are regrets. Regrets you did not spend more time in their company, regret that they are gone, regrets that you have to pick up the pieces. Give those needs to the Lord and live one day at a time.
Ephesians 6:12-13 (read on air)
Reading the Scriptures about the struggle between good and evil may cause us to become fearful, but fear is what the enemy wants. However, we don’t need to fall into this trap because the battle has been won, and we must keep our eyes on the Lord … when we evangelize, we are thwarting the enemy. I want to be on the side of God, which means I know that God is with me.Why is there sin in the world? Mainly because people are not spiritually educated. There is head knowledge but not heart knowledge. At its very core, sin is selfish, prideful, and putting our own needs before the needs of others. Our focus is not on the sins of others but on our sins and praying for others. Ask the Lord for ways to share His love, and start with your family!
I want to leave you with this; the evil one made his choice, and those who followed him made their choice. God is merciful, yet the angel’s sins are unforgivable because there was no repentance. In this way, there is no repentance after death, which should motivate us to repent now. Evangelize now. Make an effort to be open to God’s will in your life and follow His prompting. Don’t ignore it!
Your challenge this week is to ask the Lord how He wants to use you and follow the simple rules in this podcast. I pray for God’s blessings on you today and always.
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Lord of the SabbathDEACON DAVID HOCKWALT is an ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
This is a brief podcast ~ A Moment of Scripture-Mk.2:23-28by Deacon David HockwaltWe pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this reflection. Magnificat, taken from Luke: 1, is the great hymn of praise that Mary prayed while visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. We trust that this reflection will help us all understand that we are truly children of God, made in His image and likeness. We want to come together in God’s presence and proclaim that the Almighty has done great things for you and me, and holy is His Name!
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, and study programs.
(ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. We invite you to visit to find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU.
*These moments are brought to you by Deacon David Hockwalt submitted via Magnificat
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Seeking Consolation and JOY?The Presentation in the Temple, Philippe de Champaigne. 1648
Ann and Simeon Show Us How?Are you seeking consolation or more JOY? Join us today at the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord where Anna and Simeon show how. They offer us 10 ways the Holy Spirit can help.
Advent JOYWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #7, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events And Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ. Today, we travel with Mary and Joseph to the Temple and the Presentation of the Lord. There Anna and Simeon will join us at this very special event.
Circumcised, Redeemed, and Purified (Luke 2: 21-23) At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Old Testament Mosaic Law required every firstborn Jewish male to be circumcised at 8 days after birth * The naming of the baby took place at the same time as the circumcision. Mary and Joseph by divine appointment knew what the Child was to be called. And so “He was named Jesus” which means the Lord saves-* the name told to both Mary and Joseph via an angel (Luke 1: 30 and Matthew 1: 20).
Jesus Came to Fulfill All the Law (Luke 2: 23-24) Now, forty days after Jesus’ birth, we again find Joseph and Mary again following the Mosaic Law for both the Presentation of Jesus in the temple and Mary’s Purification*. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus said the He came to “fulfill the law” and this begins at birth. * For Mary’s Purification, the sweet and Blessed Mother of humble means offered “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons ” as Leviticus 12: 8 described for a new mother who could not afford a sheep to offer.
The Presentation or Redemption of Jesus (Luke 2: 25-38) This “redemption of the first born” meant that the parents were redeeming Jesus or buying Him back from God*. Isn’t it amazing that almost 33 years later, it would be Jesus who would pay the price for our redemption by dying on the cross? * The Catholic Church celebrates the Presentation of the Lord on February 2 every year.
Simeon & AnnaAlthough their lives were different, Simeon and Anna had a lot in common.
- Both Simeon and Anna were described as deeply spiritual people. They loved the Lord, practiced their faith and did not allow themselves to become bitter or decrepit with the times.
- Both were “senior citizens” active in serving God. Pope Francis says of the Presentation: It is a meeting between the young, who are full of joy in observing the Law of the Lord, and the elderly who are full of joy in the action of the Holy Spirit. It is a unique encounter between observance and prophecy, where young people are the observers and the elderly are prophets! (The Feast of the Presentation, Vatican, 2-2-2014).
- Both knew the Scriptures.
- Both believed the Scriptures and were looking for the Messiah. According to Bible scholars and theologians, Jesus has fulfilled at least 300 Old Testament prophecies.
- Both were looking forward with HOPE. The words looking for indicate they were actively waiting for the Savior with hope.
- Both worshiped, prayed, and adored God. Their eyes went more to God then to the news of the day. That brought consolation.
- Both were guided by the Spirit of God.
- Both Simeon and Anna recognized the Messiah.
- Both received Jesus and were changed.
- Both Simeon and Anna received a message about Jesus from the Holy Spirit and they shared it.
Simeon’s Prayer – The Nunc Dimittis Reflects Isaiah’s Prophecies (Luke 2: 29-32) Simeon’s prayer is one of the great prayers, or canticles (little songs) of the Church. It is called the Nunc Dimittis because v. 29 in the Latin translation of the Bible begins with the words “Nunc Dimittis,” which mean “now dismiss your servant.” (In other words, Simeon was saying to the Lord, “Now I am ready to die; you can dismiss me Lord, I have seen the Savior.”) Every evening, all priests and religious as well as all who pray the Liturgy of the Hours, pray the Nunc Dimittis* prayer. Today and every day, you can pray the Nunc Dimittis from Luke 2: 29-30.
Our Response Why not spend some time with these verses? Using your holy imagination, see yourself receiving Jesus from Mary’s arms as Simeon did. Look into the face of Jesus and give Him your shame and sadness. In exchange, receive His Love and JOY. He has come for YOU. You can’t help but be consoled. Then like Anna, praise God because you have seen the Savior of the World. He has come to give You peace, as John 15 says, Peace I give you, but not as the world gives. He has come to give the world peace as Luke 2: 14 says, Peace on earth, good will toward to men*. He has come to give you His love.
Remember Lamentations 3:22-25. (ESV) … His mercies are fresh every morning. Great is His faithfulness 25 The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him.
Join me for my next Podcast Series, starting soon: Esther & Turn-around JOY.Also enjoy these LINKs:
WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here to find the books: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ. Or Esther for Such a Time as This: Prayer, Reversals, and JOY.
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Testimony of Fr. Raymond SkoneznyFather Raymond Skonezny served in the United States Navy. In 1952, on Dec. 23rd, 1961. Father Ray completed postgraduate studies for degrees in Theology and biblical studies in Rome. After serving many years in parish life, he retired at St. John Newman in Irvine, CA. He exemplifies the beauty of the priesthood through humility, true agape love, and tireless service to Christ’s Church.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat-ministry.org
Magnificat Store
Did you know there is a wonderful shopping opportunity just waiting for you? Explore our shopping cart for rosaries, apparel, books, jewelry, statues, CDs, study programs (ex., Bible studies, Life in the Spirit Seminar, Growth in the Spirit series), and much more. To find great gifts for family, friends, and YOU, we invite you to visit
https://store.magnificat-ministry.net
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Practical Connection TipsWe all know that creating and having practical connections are harder than we think. Whether you’re a priest, religious, clergy, teacher, mental health professional, spiritual director, or medical professional, these are some ways you can boost the rapport in your relationships by honoring the dignity of those to whom you’re relating.
The four principles of practical connection are what we all need and for which we long. These tips can help us be intentional about relating in honoring and even healing ways.
Chosen – directly and intentionally engaging with someone from the foundational principle that all people are made in the image and likeness of God, have inherent value, and are due respect and the same compassion the Lord shows us.
- Make eye contact
- Smile
- Don’t interrupt or entertain distractions
- If someone else interrupts you or your attention is required elsewhere for a moment, acknowledge the interruption (e.g., Say something like, “I’m sorry for the distraction.”)
Known – recognize the other is sharing who they are, which isn’t a challenge or competition with who you are.
- Listen attentively, making eye contact.
- Reflect back on what they are saying so they know you get it.
- Don’t get defensive or offensive.
Valued – all people have the same extraordinary dignity as children of God. If a person is not behaving in accord with their value and I treat them poorly because of that, then I’m doing the same thing they are.
- Don’t relate to people for what you can get from them.
- Even if you must ask for something, recognize that thing or favor is not their source of worth/value.
- Express gratitude, and say “thank you.”
Boundaries – there’s a place where I stop, and you start, and the Lord has protective boundaries around each of us. Because we are body, mind, and spirit, we all need healthy boundaries in each area. It is a matter of good stewardship of myself. I need to also respect your steps toward good stewardship of yourself and the Lord’s boundaries for you (Jn 15:4).
- Ask for what you need clearly and calmly. Clear is kind.
- My boundaries for me cannot infringe upon your boundaries for you. My boundaries are what I need to provide for me, not requiring you to provide for me in ways you aren’t ethically, morally, or legally obligated.
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Healing Power of God – Episode 239The healing power of God is not only for past believers, as written in the Bible, but it is for us today. Miracles do happen! In this podcast, Felice shares a personal experience after a phone call a friend shared, telling her of the healing power of God’s love and how it changed her life.
Visit Media Angels, our sponsor, and look for the books One More Child and A Few Minutes with God and the Character Planners for Families.
This past month if you’ve listened to the podcasts in order, the theme was about Christian resolutions and how to avoid anger, overcome guilt, and overcome laziness. We know in our heads that these are all good things to work on but do we realize that the good news, the power of God, is that He is a healing God? But, when we think about healing, we think about spiritual healing, which is important, but sometimes God does the miraculous in healing our body.
As I share this story, I have received permission from my friend. It is a shorter version of our conversation, yet no less powerful.
I received a call from a very good friend who informed me she was diagnosed with cancer; I was shocked and listened as she recounted all the ways the Lord had blessed her and turned her life around. She went on to explain how right before Christmas, she had a pain in her ribs checked out. A blessing is that her husband is an orthopedic surgeon, and she was able to go to his office for the x-ray. Since he was busy, and she was a last-minute addition to the schedule, she prayed and left the office without seeing her husband. She kept checking her phone when she arrived home, expecting a call with the all-clear, but that didn’t happen.
Later that day, as her husband was traveling home, she asked for the results. He didn’t want to tell her on the phone, but she insisted. He said he sent the x-rays to his brother, a Radiologist in another state, and said that it was taken in his office that day, and the person was a patient. He did not tell his brother the patient was his wife (the radiologist’s sister-in-law!). They both came to the same conclusion; the patient had cancer. My friend was floored. Not only that, but cancer had spread, and there was a huge cyst putting pressure on one of the ribs.
My friend explained that she felt a bulge and wondered what it was and meant to mention it to her husband, but in the business of the holiday, she didn’t bring it up. She said she began praying, and when her husband arrived home, they both were upset but continued to pray. What touched me was that she said the Lord gave her a sense of peace and well-being. She shared that she struggled, as we all do from time to time, and the Lord lifted those burdens from her shoulders. She asked for healing but said to the Lord that if she returned to her old way of feeling, she didn’t want to be healed. She also explained that she was happy to spend time preparing for death! She felt that suffering was a gift.
2 Timothy 4:7 says – I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
She was keeping the faith and fighting the good fight. She was keeping her eyes on heaven and not on the things of this world. She said interiorly she was healed of things she had struggled with before and felt it was such a gift!
I was listening in shock. Happy about death? Happy about preparing for death. She was given the gift that surpasses all understanding … peace! I couldn’t believe it and was shocked as I listened to say much. So many thoughts raced through my head. Especially when she said that we never know how we will react at the time of death, but she felt that she would have time to prepare and be at peace. She spent some time calling and talking to her adult children and letting them know the results. Needless to say, they were all very upset.
Wow – Philippians 4:7 says that “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” And in Romans 8:28 we read: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.
She was called to be a witness, and she was not bitter or condemning God or her situation, but saying that at that moment, she felt the Lord’s presence and healing in her spiritual life. It wasn’t that she didn’t pray for healing but she was at peace either way.
The story continues with an appointment for a CAT scan the next day, and her husband cleared his schedule to attend with her. He told the receptionist that he wanted to talk to the doctor after the scan was completed, and he did. My friend waited in the waiting room at the request of her husband. She said normally, she would have insisted on hearing what the other doctor had to say, but she has such peace over the situation she decided to let her husband handle it. Later her husband said he wanted to talk doctor to doctor and he didn’t want her scared or for him to watch the questions he asked not to worry her.
The results were astounding. The CAT scan showed all was clear, and there was absolutely no sign of cancer. As she told me this, I had trouble grasping what she was saying so I asked, “You don’t have cancer?” she said no and then explained the results showed her ribs and no cyst at all. A CAT scan is much more detailed than an x-ray, which is why her husband requested it, but he had sent the lab the x-ray and had compared the two side-by-side with the other doctor. I asked again for clarification, “So you don’t have cancer?” I was in further shock if that was possible!
The CAT scan showed all was clear, and they went home and shared the good news with their children. The struggle, she said, was that one of her sons wanted more tests to be completed. She and her husband both felt the CAT scan showed reliable results.
I was so surprised she was healed physically. At first, I thought the healing she was talking about was spiritual healing. God can heal us in different ways, and the spiritual element is typically what
She continued to have the pain, but at the time of our conversation, about two weeks later, she said that her pain had minimized but was not totally gone. She asked the Lord why and said she felt Him saying, “So you do not forget what I have done for you.”
Again, wow.
When I shared the story with my children, they said they would want an additional test run if I were in that situation.
2 Chronicles 9:6 – But I did not believe what they said until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half the greatness of your wisdom was told me; you have far exceeded the report I heard.
Can we not take a miracle at face value? Of course, we can. Should she have another test? Maybe. But for those who don’t believe it doesn’t matter how many tests are run, they will still ask for another. She has proof of the first x-ray and the second scan. She has proof of a brother in law in a different state who is a radiologist that came to the same conclusion as her husband, also a doctor. She has the proof of a CAT scan that showed all clear – praise God!
In the book of Acts, we read about the disciples after Jesus rose from the dead and how they reacted to the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the living God. Jesus promised He would not leave us but send us His spirit, and he did.
Acts 10:38 – how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.
As Christians, we read about the healing of Jesus throughout the Scriptures, such as Matthew 9:35-38
35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
Are we willing to be sent out as workers into his harvest? Miracles happen; when they do, we need to share them with others. This miracle was close to home in the case of a dear friend. We don’t understand why some people are healed and others are not. God does greater work in our life when we are open to Him. The other day we were in a small gathering, and I asked my friend to share her miracle with another friend. She hesitated and became teary-eyed before she gave a very short version, but the essence was the same, her healing was spiritual and physical healing. She said it took her several weeks to process what happened, and she is still processing the information. The same with me; it took me days to process what happened.
We expect miracles, but even greater than that, the biggest miracle is accepting God’s will in our life. I feel my friend did this in a way that I still can’t comprehend and only could be by the power of the Holy Spirit. Only God has the power to heal, but we can ask.
She called to let me know because she had been asked to give her testimony to a local prayer group and didn’t want me to attend without knowing beforehand what had happened. The prayer group was in for a big surprise when they heard her testimony of healing. Many in the audience had cancer or pre-cancer, and she prayed with them.
I praise God and thank Him for the happy ending that my friend had, but he wants us all to see the miracles every day. This week’s challenge is to see the miracles in our life, to thank God, and to praise Him. Don’t look to the left or the right but keep your eyes on the Lord – Amen!
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Testimony of Mary Ann ShieldsThe testimony of Mary Ann Shields from Orange Co, CA., will inspire you! As you listen to another wonderful Magnificat Ministry presentation, think about who would benefit from hearing this audio.
Mary Ann Shields, also known professionally as Mary Ann Shulte, is a nationally recognized executive, accounting consultant, and humanitarian. She has earned an MBA in Executive Management and a BS in Business Administration and Accounting from USC. She is the recipient of many awards for her involvement in business, community, and church. She and her husband, Denny, are facilitators for the Ignatian exercises. She has lived in a wheelchair since the age of six.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us www.magnificat–ministry.orgThe post Testimony of Mary Ann Shields appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Resolution: Overcoming Laziness – Episode 238Overcoming laziness is not for those who do not want change. Laziness can seep into your spiritual life as well. This show covers the causes of laziness and ways to overcome it and lead to a more productive life!
Our sponsor is Media Angels. Two featured books are One More Child and A Few Minutes with God and the family favorite Character Planners for Families.
I love to read, and for many years when I was busy raising my kids and family, I found no time for this pleasurable pastime. Sure I read, but books for my children or books on learning something for my business. The pleasure of escaping into historical fiction, romance, or mystery was something I wanted to do but didn’t. The reason? I had little control once I became immersed in a story, and I knew my weakness, and I knew that I would be prone to laziness if I allowed myself the time to escape.
What causes laziness? It can be procrastination, exhaustion, or just a lack of wanting to try. Did you know that laziness is a sin? Tell that to all of us who love the occasion of being couch potatoes. Or what about vegging out and thinking of nothing in particular?
However, laziness can lead to moral sin and too much time on your hands to get yourself in trouble. Think about the Internet and the access to graphics and video that can lead a person to grave sin. Proverbs 6 is about denying ourselves, working hard, and looking at a mere creature, an ant of all things, as an example of how we should diligently work. Proverb 6 is called “Warnings Against Folly.”
Proverbs 6:6-8 (Read on air)
The Bible tells us how important action is, and laziness is the opposite of doing. We read the following verses:
Read on air:1. Proverbs 12:24 2. Ecclesiastes 10:18 3. Proverbs 19:15 4. Proverbs 10:4 ~ “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.”
As a young mom, I read a self-help book on getting things done. The section on washing dishes said, “Just do them.” Simple, right? Do the dishes when you use them, and do not allow them to pile up. Practical. Later, when I began a business, I soon learned that successful people are often the most productive. I had a podcast where I interviewed people on the topic of writing and publishing. The most successful authors were the ones that quickly gave me a bio, an answer to the outline of the points that were -to cover as well as prompt attention to whatever else I needed.
Successful people, as Proverbs 10:4 states, know how to get things done in a timely fashion.
Laziness brings its own host of problems and leads us to guilt. It also leads us to attitudes that can block our spiritual life with God. It can lead to indifference, suffering, and ignoring those under our care or needing help. It does not allow us to connect with others. It can also lead us to self-centered behavior, the world continues to tell us what we need and how we should be fulfilled, and my pet peeve is “living your best life,” because what? Would we want to live our worse life? (I get it; I still don’t like that saying!) Laziness can also lead to pessimism. It can foster a critical spirit within us and allow us to fall into arguments which will take us further away from peace and a life filled with goodness.
How do we change? We repent, and we ask the Lord for His help. In Hebrews 6:12 we read: (on air)
Do we want to inherit the kingdom? Is it good enough to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and then live any life you want? Some of you may say no. Others may say yes that salvation is not dependent on what we do. This is both true and false.
If we stop with “accepting the Lord” and do nothing else, we are shortchanging our life and becoming spiritually lazy. That is taking the easy way out. Philippians 2:12 states (read on air)
That does not sound like laziness to me. I believe we must make the fundamental option (as my pastor calls it) and choose Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Still, we must go on and lead a life free from sin (as much as humanly possible and repent when we fall) and then make an effort to spend time in prayer and in the works of service. God – family – self is a recipe for success.
Just like the book said to avoid dish pileup, just do it. What is Nike’s saying – that’s right, “Just Do It.” We, too, must make ourselves people of action. In podcasts past, I’ve invited you to read Scripture and spend time with God and His precious word in the Bible. When was the last time you did these things? We often see things as insurmountable, but in these shows, I work hard on small pieces that are attainable by you and me. I join you each week when I give you a challenge, so I know it can be done.
I’m not giving you ten things. You have to accomplish just one. Look at your life. Are you happy with your productivity? Great, then you are done. But if you are like me, you see your life constantly needs improvement. Sure, we can be happy where we are, but we should move forward in our walk with the Lord. I love the Christian bumper sticker, “Christian under Construction.”
Our work is done at the end of our life, and how wonderful that if I am still recording and you are still here listening, we have time. We have time to overcome laziness, we have time to rededicate our lives to the Lord, and we have time to be the amazing, blessed person that was always meant to be!
This week our challenge is to overcome laziness. Look at those areas of your life and make changes. Small to begin with and larger as you go on and share the good news with others. Our God is miraculous. I can’t wait until next week to share a miracle that happened in my friend’s life. May God be blessed!
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Back in 1990, Bonnie’s family life was great. Her husband was a physician, they had two children and lived in a lovely home. Bonnie shares a series of events that changed everything and that was just the beginning of her faith journey. Bonnie Hardey’s story is about the love of the cross, about its blessings and the good that God can bring out of the cross.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Would you believe that the key to marriage isn’t your relationship with your spouse? Do you know that we all have the same primary vocation regardless of our state in life? The truth is that the key to marriage is that our primary vocation is that of union with the Lord! It’s true! Monks, hermits, religious, clergy, and married people all share the same call to holiness! So, if you are married that means you are called to union with the Lord first and foremost and in the living out of that you receive what you need to live your vocation of marriage with an earthly spouse.
Only the Lord is infinite and in Him our needs to be chosen, intimately known, perfectly valued, protected, and provided for are superabundantly fulfilled. If we aren’t going to Him to receive the fulfilment of those needs, we will be running on empty and turning to our spouse to fill us. What if they are running on empty, as well? Then we are setup for frustration, conflict, and failure. If we look to them to satisfy us instead of the Lord, we are looking to make an idol of them.
Where relationships usually breakdown is in our relationship to ourselves. We read Scripture or spiritual reading, listen to homilies, or talks about the Lord and how He sees us and then we go and relate to ourselves in ways that fly in the face of the fact that we are precious, loved, and have inherent dignity. Then, our relationships to others become really weighty – much weightier than they ought to be – because we are looking for our spouse to tell us enough truth about ourselves to counterbalance the erroneous ways we treat ourselves.
Start each day – even if it’s just taking 5 minutes – turn to the Lord and open those needs of knowing you are chosen by Him, intimately known by Him, that you have more worth in Him than you can begin to imagine, that you are protected and provided for by Him and ask Him to help you relate to yourself in a way that is consistent with those truths. Starting from a place of fullness, then relate to your spouse and see what changes.
May the Lord give you peace!
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Needing More JOY and Peace?The Adoration of the Shepherds by Domenico Zampieri
Do you need a message that brings MORE JOY and Peace? Join us today for the birth of our Savior and meet the Angels and the Shepherds who have a lot to share. In fact, uniting your heart with the Angel’s Gloria and the Shepherd’s praises will help you know more JOY and peace.
Traveling to BethlehemWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #6, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events And Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ. Today, we return to the book of Luke. There we join Blessed Mary and Joseph on their 80-mile journey to Bethlehem. When they arrive, they find it crowded with people, who like Mary and Joseph, had come at the command of Caesar Augustus. Join us today for:
No Home for the Creator of Creation (Luke 2: 1-7) Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, in the City of David as prophesied by the Old Testament prophet Micah over 700 years earlier and recorded in Micah 5: 1-3. * Emperor Caesar Augustus, a master bookkeeper and statistician, likely wanted to keep track of his subjects and his kingdom by public enrollment. * Joseph would have to go to Bethlehem, as he was a descendent of King David. Mary went along too – she may have been required to register or Joseph wanted her with him. * Bishop Fulton J. Sheen explains: Joseph “searched in vain for a place where He, to Whom heaven and earth belonged, might be born. Could it be that the Creator would not find a home in creation? … A stable would be the last place in the world where one would have looked for Him. Divinity is always where one least expects to find it. (Life of Christ*, 1958, p. 13-24. * Jesus, God incarnate and the Savior of the world, was born and tightly wrapped in bands of cloths by his mother Mary and then laid in a manger where animals would feed.
The Good News (Luke 2: 8-11) The angel’s message of “Good News” is summarized in the announcement by the angel (v. 10-11): “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the * We can say with assurance: Jesus is our Savior, who delivers us from sin and makes us right with God. He is our Messiah* the anointed one who will inaugurate God’s Kingdom and reign as KING forever. He is our LORD, who has dominion overall.
The Fields Outside of Bethlehem (Luke 2: 12-20)* It is amazing that God chooses shepherds—the little, the lowly, the less important of the world (1 Corinthians 1: 28), but also calls himself a shepherd (e.g., “I am the Good Shepherd,” John 10:11). In Ezekiel 34:12-16, He describes himself as one who “shepherds rightly:” he tends sheep, rescues them, leads them, gives them rest, brings back the lost, binds up the injured, and heals the sick. * Jesus is our Shepherd: If at times you feel “lowly,” please know that Christ is YOUR Savior and Shepherd. He came for you! You are His little lamb, and He loves you. * Some of the shepherds around Jerusalem took care of the temple lambs used in the temple sacrifices. Shepherds would wrap lambs born without blemish in swaddling cloths and place them away from the others—even in a manger (e.g., Leviticus 4-5). It’s amazing that the shepherds who took care of the temple lambs used for sin offerings would be the first to recognize Jesus Christ, the one who came as our sin offering forever!
The Angel’s Gloria and the Shepherds Praises (Luke 2: 14-20) We also find two beautiful choruses in v. 14-20. First, there’s the song (v. 14) called the Angel’s* “Gloria” because the first word in in St. Jerome’s Latin translation is “Gloria.” * This song of the angels proclaimed peace to a world that needs peace, like we do right now. Jesus said “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27, NABRE). The only place of true peace is found in Jesus and today we remind ourselves of this. We can join the angels in praise: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward all.” * The second chorus includes the shepherds’ praises (v. 20). They praised God for the good news from the angel and the song of the heavenly host of angels. From them we learn: Praising God for His goodness is a wonderful way to evangelize and get other’s attention on our Savior.
Mary Treasured and Pondered God’s Words (Luke 2: 19)* Mary “treasured and pondered” these things in her heart. * She gives an example for us in treasuring, pondering, and delighting in the things God has revealed, especially since we have the Word of God in Scripture.
Our ResponseTry to prayerfully put yourself in the scenes and ask:
- Am I praising God for sending Jesus, as the Angels and shepherds did?
- Am I making a “manger” for Jesus in my heart as my Savior and Lord?
- Am I receiving the true joy and peace that Jesus offers?
- Am I treasuring God’s Word in my heart as Mary did?
- You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from the Advent JOY Podcast #6 at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com.
- Check out more podcasts here!
- Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
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Resolution ~ Overcoming Guilt ~ Episode 237Guilt can be terrible, and we are all plagued by it; however, overcoming guilt is possible, and with it comes the assurance that we are not alone. This podcast explores the meaning of guilt and how we can avoid the near occasion of sin.
Our sponsor is the company Media Angels, featuring the books One More Child and A Few Minutes with God and the Character Planners for Families.
When Adam and Eve sinned against God, what stuck in my mind was that they were embarrassed not because of what they had done but because of what they were not wearing. When I was praying about the topic of this podcast, I did a quick word search on a Bible app, looking for the word guilt. It does not show up until the book of Leviticus, Leviticus 7:1 (Read on air.)
If you remember the books of the Bible, they go like this, Genesis, Exodus, and then Leviticus. It wasn’t until Leviticus that we see the word guilt?
Guilt is what we feel when we have done something wrong. The feeling is powerful because it typically contains some self-recrimination. We are disappointed in ourselves, maybe our lack of charity toward another, our inability to have self-control or the many other reasons we feel guilty. Unfortunately, guilt can drive our lives in a way that is not healthy.
We feel guilty over things we think we should do. What would be on your list if I asked you to make one? When I made my list, I found that these items were not sinful. I can share with you that I feel guilty that I no longer send birthday cards to family members. Even when I buy a gift, I do not include a card. I find it difficult to buy a card since it is hard to find one that conveys my feelings. But is that sinful? Is that something I should waste time feeling guilty about? No, not really. It is wonderful to receive a card and feel like someone in the family thinks about you, but it is not a sin that we should feel guilty about.
And that is what I wanted to share with you that we waste so much time feeling guilty over the things that do not matter. Thankfully the Lord Jesus came to pay the price of our sins with His death and His Resurrection that broke the bonds of death for all of us. We no longer need to pay guilt offerings. So why do we feel guilt? Because the Lord has created us so that we realize that when we sin, we should feel remorse. People hide it in all types of ways that are unhealthy such as drinking, drugs, or denial. The issue is discerning what is true guilt and what is false.
When we sin against God or others in a way that breaks one of the commandments, we truly sin and should feel true guilt. When we don’t do something we should not do, like spoiling a child, we might feel a false sense of guilt. Perhaps we are enforcing some type of discipline, taking away a phone, or denying a child time to visit friends. How many parents feel worse when they punish a child than the child actually feels? If you are not a parent yet, believe me–it’s a thing!
Another way we feel guilt is in the example I shared about sending cards. I think I should do it, so it is on me to have a mindset change (and be okay that I don’t) or to resolve to send out cards to express my sincere thoughts to family members. However, that is something only I can decide. It should not take up head space. We should not worry about it and should put this idea in perspective.
Being guilty can be helpful as a way to identify sin. We can then confess it and move on.
But how do you overcome chronic guilt or guilt that is false?
- Decide what guilt you are trying to overcome.
- If it is true guilt, what can you do to change your ways? Can you confess and “sin no more”?
- How can we move on if it is false or chronic guilt for something we believe we should do, but it is NOT sinful?
When we look at the term “guilt” in the New Testament, it is all related to sin. Guilt over sin and judgment for sin. When is guilt warranted? When we are in sin when there is evil that tempts us into sin. We should feel that guilt due to sin. That, my friend, is good. Guilt from sin brings us to repentance! We can ask for forgiveness from a just but loving God and move on.
Identifying the type of guilt is the first step in freeing our minds. Do you realize how much headspace that guilt takes? It can cause people to fall into a deeper sin of a chronic condition like alcoholism or drug addiction. Guilt can eat away at us, and we need to forgive ourselves. This is easier said than done. Many people live lives of self-hatred and guilt, which turns into those chronic conditions and often true physical illnesses. Again, it is a way the enemy gets in, and we need spiritual warfare (Ephesians – read that book!) to overcome this.
Remember, the enemy looks for ways to tell us we are less than! If we believe this lie, it allows the evil one a foothold to torment us and for us to feel bad about ourselves. Our hope is in God, who is the maker of all things. 1 Timothy 4:10 – (Read on air.)
Our self-worth is not dependent on whether or not we mail out birthday cards or whatever is on your list of guilt-ridden issues. Our hope is in the living God. The Savior of all people–and what is the next line? The Savior of all people, and especially those who believe.
Can you join me this week in looking at how you can overcome the guilt that is not from true sin? How can you overcome the guilt that is false and lies from the enemy? Pray about this during the week, and join me in praising God today and always!
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Maria Vadia was born in Cuba. Her family fled to the United States when Maria was 10 yrs. old. She is the founding Coordinator of Jesus is Lord Magnificat Chapter in Miami, FL. She is member of the Advisory Team of the Magnificat Central Service Team. She has a vast knowledge of sacred scripture and is a vivacious speaker. She brings God’s powerful message of faith, salvation, and healing to many prayer groups.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Acts 1:8 “But, you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you…”
Do you feel like you need power? The Lord promises it to us through His Spirit coming upon us!
If you grew up like many of us did without exposure to such language or experience, you might be wondering just what the baptism in the Holy Spirit is and how it differs from the sacrament of Baptism. We receive the indwelling of the Holy Trinity at our baptism. I heard an analogy once from Fr. Hal Cohen, S.J. who had a glass of milk and squirted chocolate syrup into the glass – a big, heavy dose of chocolate syrup – which collected at the bottom of the glass. He said that was like receiving the indwelling of the Blessed Trinity at Baptism. Then, he stuck a spoon into the glass and stirred it vigorously until the chocolate was thoroughly mixed with the milk. It was no longer milk with chocolate syrup. It was now chocolate milk. He said that mixing/transforming process was like the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is such a precious and much needed gift of the Father and the Son. He is generated by the love between them and sent to us to bring us into Their very life. It’s the whole point of this life, and all eternity for that matter. The purpose of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is to equip us with the spiritual gifts we need to live a supernatural life of grace with a deeper experience of the Lord along with gifts for ministry to others, as well.
Many times, the experience of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit brings people to a deeper conversion, greater sense of intimacy with the Lord, hunger for prayer, and the Scriptures and the Mass really take on a deeper meaning and brings us into a more profound realization of the fact that this life is passing away and we have a much more beautiful home that awaits us.
If you are longing for more in your relationship with the Lord, ask Him to stir up within you the Holy Spirit who came to dwell in you at your baptism. Perhaps you may want to check out prayer groups in your area or the Encounter school to get plugged into others who are seeking the Lord in the same way.
Thank you, Lord, for the great gift of Your Holy Spirt! Come Holy Spirit!!!
May the Lord give you peace!
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Resolution – Overcoming Anger 236In the grand scheme of the Christian life, overcoming anger may seem like one of those unavoidable sins. In this podcast, Felice breaks down simple ways to overcome and sustain the joy of the long in the midst of strife!
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This was not the podcast I wanted to record. I had another one planned, and it had to be shelved for later on; why? I lost my temper with my oldest son, who is an adult. We all get upset from time to time, but have you ever spent the time to narrow down the reason why?
When we get angry, even as Christians we are not called to be doormats or to allow someone to take advantage of our kindness. And that is the crux of my anger. I was being taken advantage of, and when I asked for an apology, I was met with the response, “What did I do?”
In relationships, there is always a give and take, but in families, we sometimes allow our children to take advantage of us, our kindness our willingness to help and then we get upset. Especially when the person has no clue why we are upset. Is there a lack of communication? Absolutely. But how does this translate into our Christian walk with the Lord?
As Christians, we are duty-bound to own up to our mistakes and take charge in regard to asking the Lord for forgiveness. As Christians, we want to be a good example, walk with the Lord, and not allow things to bother us. When I lose my temper, I feel that I am failing God. I am frustrated and want retribution, even if it is in an adult-controlled manner. Where is that joy that surpasses all understanding? That peace? That feeling that God is in control of my life?
How often do I let the Lord down? Often. And how often do I need to forgive? 70 x 7
Read all of Matthew 18:15-30, but in an excerpt where Peter asks Jesus how many times he needs to forgive, we read: Matthew 18:21-22 (read on air).
So, if we are to forgive 490 times, how often do I need to ask the Lord for forgiveness? How often do you need to ask the Lord for forgiveness?
Here is the simplified version of the rambling of my thoughts. Use this exercise to see how you have sinned against the Lord. Think about these questions (they are in the show notes).
- Do I take advantage of the Lord’s love?
- Do I take advantage of the Lord’s kindness?
- Do I take advantage of the Lord’s forgiveness?
- Do I allow myself to reflect on how I have sinned against Him?
- When was the last time I asked the Lord for forgiveness?
Let’s break this down.
Being taken advantage of hurts us because we feel betrayed and vulnerable. What about our Lord and Savior, who gave so much to us? He gave His life to break the bonds of death so that we could have everlasting life. This is such a hard concept to grasp, but it is the foundation of our Christian faith.
The next time we are angry, we must remember that we have fallen short and sinned. Do we correct the person who is the cause of our anger? Yes. But we do it in a controlled manner, not one where we lose control. I felt like I did this and followed through, but I still felt guilty, which is the topic of next week’s podcast!
Being able to control our anger isn’t always necessary, especially if it is warranted. I’m not talking about screaming, ranting and raving, and having a temper tantrum. I am, however, saying that when needed, we need to express that the issue must be fixed.
We can be angry, but we must be in control. If you feel out of control, and yes, it has happened to me, walk away. Tell the person I am too upset to talk to you right now, and I need a minute (or an hour) to regroup before I can discuss this rationally. And, while we are in our own time-out, we need to pray and ask the Lord for a solution. In my younger parenting days, I asked the Lord what to do with a particular child, and it was amazing when thoughts came to mind that never occurred to me. I believe these are from the Lord and His way of letting us know he is there for us.
I know that anger takes on its own form and can be violent, and this is never acceptable and should never be tolerated.
Anger stems from a sense of being right, and while the Lord loves righteousness — if you search for the word in a Bible app, you will be amazed at how many references there are to the word, especially in the Psalms and the Proverbs. But the Lord also does not like anger. Do a search of that, and the findings are eye-opening, especially this verse, which we should all memorize in Ephesians 4:25-27 – (Read on air).
In your anger, do not sin – and do not let the sun go down angry… which means there should be some form of forgiveness, asking for forgiveness but also an apology. The enemy knows when we are weak, and if you have trouble with “anger,” take it before the Lord because He can help you with this! The Lord cares about each of us, and he knows our struggles! I praise God that I have faith. God cares about the little things.
Yesterday I received an email from a printer I work with who could not deliver a document I needed to have printed on time because her machines were broken, and she was waiting for the repair person. I emailed her, told her I would pray and asked her to keep me informed. Today she said the repairman came, and the document would be ready on Friday. Praise be the Lord! It is always a blessing the Lord provides for us in other ways when we feel down. Praise be to God! It was a small victory and a reminder that God cares.
This week work on your anger if that is an issue, and look at ways we work against the Lord and the ways we offend him! I pray a blessing on you and your family today and always! Amen.
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Get out of your RutThe first four chapters of Habits of Freedom have us looking inward and being contemplative. The last chapter, 5, is about looking outward, getting out of your rut, and acting on your life experience.
How to become a Contemplative in Action?* Experience – what goes on around us through our senses * Understand – the experience, what happened * Judgment – do I need to do something with this information * Act – or not, based on the nature of the judgment
Desolation requires ActionOnce we are stuck in a rut, we need to move out of it by going against ourselves. Often when we feel spiritually desolate, we withdraw and turn in on ourselves. Collins suggested we focus outward instead.
As St. Augustine says about sin – an inclination to cave in on ourselves
Scripture: John 21:15-17
Final Quote
“God invites me to stay stil, open, and receptive to how he wants to appraoch me and find me and call me home to ttrue life and freedom.”
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Linda was member of the Pastoral Advisory Board of the Charismatic Renewal in the Diocese of San Jose, CA. She was active in writing, teaching, and prayer ministry. Widely traveled, Linda has ministered all over the world. Linda was also a member of the Association of Christian Therapist
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
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In Mary’s Magnificat she declares her own lowliness and rejoices in the fact that the Lord raises up the lowly. She sees and openly acknowledges her own littleness. That’s not a false humility. She is in touch with the reality of who she is before God. She also lays out a stark contrast between how God responds to the lowly as compared with how He responds to the lowly. She told her cousin Elizabeth and continues to tell us that he looked with favor on her as His lowly servant, has mercy on those who fear Him, scatters the proud, casts down the powerful, while He lifts up the lowly, fills them with good things, comes to their help, and remembers His promises (Luke 1:46-55).
When we think that the Lord chose her to form Him as a baby and a child, it is striking to consider. He must have intentionally wanted the human example of a mother with a humble heart who doesn’t look to be mighty, but to acknowledge the Lord’s power. We know that humble is how Jesus described His own heart (Matthew 11:29).
When we consider that Jesus is “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), we have no choice but to consider that God is humble. Can that be? That concept can give us pause at first, but then we call to mind that Jesus “emptied Himself” (Philippians 2:7) and left His throne and took on our humanity, even becomes Food for us in the Eucharist, and subjected Himself to such a horrific death at the hands of His creatures. St. Francis of Assisi spoke to his followers about “the humility of God”, particularly in the Eucharist. He was really moved by it and we saw how he imitated that humility in embracing and ministering to the lepers.
In Fr. Rick Martignetti’s book, Perfect Love he references St. Bonaventure telling St Clare and her sisters that patience is the hallmark of humility. He points out Mary’s patience in not bombarding Gabriel with a thousand questions, even though her life might be on the line by being an unwed mother at that time. Knowing that God would be the father of Jesus was enough of an answer and she could wait patiently for God to provide in His way and in His time.
The angel Gabriel told Mary, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you (Luke 1:35)”. Are we willing to be overshadowed? Our humanity can really bristle at that. How much anxiety can we lose and how much freedom, peace, and joy can we gain when we embrace our lowliness and rely on the Lord to lift us up rather than trying to do it ourselves.
May the Lord give you peace!
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Christian Resolution ~ 235We hear about New Year’s Resolutions, but what about a Christian Resolution…of faith? In this episode, Felice explores the possibility that the gifts God has for us are more than we can imagine if we put on the right mindset.
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As a Christian, the New Year seems like the perfect time for a Christian Resolution instead of a New Year’s Resolution. Instead of setting yourself up for failure, let’s look at ways to thrive in the new year! So, it is time for a Christian resolution. What is on your list? It may be simple things such as spending time with God in prayer or going to church on a regular basis; maybe you’ve added works of service, visiting the elderly, or volunteering at the soup kitchen. These are all great and helpful in our walk with the Lord.
For most of us, this is all we can do at this time in our life, and it serves us well. When I listen to podcasts or YouTube videos that list ten things to do, I am often overwhelmed and shut down. My focus in these podcasts is to provide you with some tools and let you decide what works for you. In saying that, as a Christian, what is your focus? Is it in improving your relationship with God? One of the beautiful benefits of strengthening our relationship with God is that it flows into our relationships with others. It has the added benefit of giving us a sense of joy and peace.
The obstacles to our relationship with God are usually centered on what we perceive the Lord wants for us or expects us to do. As Christians, we should want to be free from sin; after all, isn’t that what He expects? So, what keeps us from this?
The expectations for being a Christian may seem restrictive to some or insurmountable to others. But truthfully, being a Christian is as the scriptures state – the truth will set you free.
Today we don’t know what is true. We don’t know who to trust. We’ve been deceived, and it is a horrible feeling to be lied to. Who can we trust? Only the Lord. John 8:31-32 (Read on air.)
Jesus answered in the following verses and explained (read the entirety of John 8), but the summation of his teaching was this, if you are in sin or commit a sin, you are then the slave to that sin. The draw to sin increases each time. But by turning away from sin we also turn away from slavery or the enticement of sinning. Therefore, there is freedom. Then we read in Chapter 8, verses 42-43
When we make up our list of things we want to accomplish in the new year or each week or whenever we take the time to improve our Spiritual life, we find that there are obstacles in our way, and that obstacle tends to be sin. God is waiting with open arms.
In verses 42-43, the Lord continues to explain…(Read on air).
If we can not believe the Word of God, we need to spend some time analyzing why. To love, we must spend time with the person and get to know them; this is true with our relationship with God. God is love, and as such, He is there waiting with open arms for us to go to Him, but sin keeps us from a true relationship. This wall we put up is self-preservation. We don’t want to be hurt; we don’t want to be lied to – we are protecting ourselves.
We are protective of our feelings, but with God, we can let those protections go, and the first thing we need to do is remove whatever is keeping us from Him.
Jesus goes on in verses 44-47 (Read on air).
The father of lies continues to wreak havoc on the world in which we live, and because of so many things, mainly the way Christians have retreated, we have a world that is heading toward devastation if not already there. Christians must stand up for truth. Christians who are from God hear the words of God. Are we from God? That, my friends, is my Christian Resolution to be with God in word and deed, to ask God before stepping out on my own, and to pray to God for His love, providence, and protection.
Take the time to text a family member or friend in need who asks for prayer or to stop immediately to pray. Ask the Lord to call to mind a friend or family member who needs prayers, and you will find that this is one way that the Lord can use you in a powerful way.
This year I want to challenge you to find a Christian Resolution you can stick to, and I pray you write it down and grow closer to God each day.
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Joan is married to Salvador Lococo. She is a mother to six grown children and grandmother to nine grandchildren. Her youngest child, John Paul died at age nine. It was through this experience that Joan learned more about the power of prayer and placing all her trust in the Lord. She was awarded the Regina Matrum award in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, voted the most outstanding mother of the year. She served for many years on the Mother Chapter of Magnificat and for 19 years on the Central Service Team the international governing board of this Ministry. Her favorite scripture is,’ Do whatever He tells you.’ John 2:5
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
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God’s love is key to the spiritual life. As we’ve discussed in the past couple of shows, He loves us infinitely and intimately and sent Jesus to reveal His love for us, to make it manifest to us in a real way we could see through the incarnation we celebrate at Christmas. Yet, despite this fact, many times we can struggle to cling to this notion and sometimes the experience of it is distant.
In simple terms, we can divide the blocks to God’s love into two categories, internal and external blocks. Predominately, the external blocks tend to be associated with a lack of human maturity and the internal are related to a lack of spiritual maturity.
Examples of external blocks can be things like preoccupation with worldly concerns, and lack of focus on the true purpose of this life. We can be so consumed with coming and going to and from work and tasks of the day that we forget the goal of this life is really about our relationship with the Lord. It can be easy to forget Him if we don’t make a concerted effort to keep Him central. He is invisible and doesn’t often speak audibly, so it requires tuning our senses to a spiritual setting, like switching a radio from one of human transmission to spiritual transmission. As we learn to see Him in the tasks, relationships, and gifts of the day, to hear Him in the leading of His “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:11-13) we grow in human maturity and become more available to the experience of Him being Personally present to us in the day-to-day.
Internal blocks can come from woundedness that causes us to doubt His goodness or the fact that He loves us deeply and cares for us intimately. He wants to touch every area of our lives and our being and draw us into union with Himself. Hurtful messages we received from painful relationships or situations can leave us doubting this or walled off in a misguided attempt at self-protection. We may also have a lack of appreciation for God’s love. We might assume the time where God was involved with people ended after the Acts of the Apostles or is only in the rare exception like in the lives of canonized saints. The truth is that the Lord’s love is always present to us and He longs to bring us ever more deeply to a place of living in the full joy, and peace of that reality.
May the Lord give you peace!
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DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
The Annunciation.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.Magnificat-ministry.org
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Christians After Christmas ~ Episode 234What should we feel as Christians after Christmas? Should we rejoice and be glad? Similar to our secular counterparts, we often feel like something is missing. In this episode, Felice delves into the gift of Christmas and how we can celebrate all year long.
I’d like to thank our sponsor, the movie 5000 Blankets; this movie was inspired by a true story; 5000 BLANKETS will encourage you to give to others. Find hope this holiday season when you see 5000 BLANKETS which you will now find on streaming channels such as Pureflix – Check out the website at 5000BlanketsMovie.com or on social media 5000blanketsmovie
Do you feel it? That after-Christmas letdown? Many of us have been busy during the weeks leading up to the big day. After all that preparation, the letdown is sometimes overwhelming. In this episode, we’ll discuss keeping the Christmas “feeling” with us all year.
Well, friends, if you are like me, you have prepared for weeks before the holidays, and now there is nothing to do other than maybe return gifts. Our celebration has just begun if our focus has been on the Almighty, the Word becoming flesh. As Christians, we continue to praise God for one of the greatest miracles of all times, the Birth of Christ…God becoming man. We can focus on the theme of Advent, which is waiting with expectant faith, and now that He has “come” and we’ve remembered the Savior’s birth, the celebration begins.
It is similar to your choice to follow Christ. No one can make you decide this is important; it is a free-will decision. Yet, for some, it is one and done. There is a profession of faith, a proclamation of renouncing sin and following Christ, yet it ends there. Maybe some read the Bible from time to time, or perhaps there is a prayer from time to time. There can even be church attendance, yet that is just the beginning for me.
Each day we should renew our love for God. We should say, Here I am, Lord. I’ve come to do your will. We read in Psalm 40:6-8 …
When we love someone, we are happy to please them and to do things for them without expecting anything in return. As we renew our decision to follow Him, we should seek ways to serve God – in our thoughts and in our actions. How do we seek the Lord? How do we plan our lives? Does it include a prayer to the Lord for direction? Do we seek His will and his direction? Some of you may say you do but don’t hear anything back.
The Lord gives me direction in how things seem to unfold. I don’t sit on my hands and do nothing; I put something out there and pray…then I wait. Sometimes I’ll get an idea or feel like there is a direction I should take, but I do not stress about it; I go on with my life. Then I am attentive and, as we are told during Advent – to stay awake and be aware. How often do you look back in your life and see the hand of God? How often do we realize that God has been there the entire time?
We are meant to serve, not to be perfect. All the other things will follow by allowing our thoughts to focus on the essential parts of our life, faith, family, work, and responsibility. If you are stressed or unsuccessful in putting things into perspective, it might be time to look at what is causing the discomfort in your life.
I’ve shared with you before the importance of putting on the Armor of Christ. Recently I have struggled with many issues that were work-related – I think I’ve talked about this previously! I couldn’t be in business for over twenty-eight years without being able to handle the problems that crop up. Yet, this was doing me in, and I kept thinking … I need to pray a spiritual warfare prayer. But I put it off until I decided to prioritize it. So I knelt down beside my bed and prayed a Spiritual Warfare prayer. I took authority over the things in my life that were an issue, asked the Lord for providence to show me ways I had sinned against Him and rebuked this sin, and then asked the Lord for the grace of the opposite of the struggle. For example, I said, “I take authority in the Name of Jesus Christ over frustration and rebuke it and ask my God for the spirit of peace that surpasses all understanding.” Then I went down the list as I thought of things I should rebuke. I also prayed for an increase in time and had one of the most productive days ever.
We can do this, friends, we have that authority under the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and we do nothing without His help and providence. We should not miss the ability or the opportunity to place the things troubling us at the foot of the cross. As I record this, we are heading into a new year and closing out the old. So much emphasis has been put on the nostalgia of thinking about the new year ending sadly (or happily, depending on your situation) and looking forward to a new year of big changes.
As followers of Christ, we have an opportunity to be better, to have a fresh start which I will discuss in my new year’s podcast, and the ability to be the best Christian we can be, which is easy with the love of the Lord has for us.
Instead of the after-Christmas letdown, let’s rejoice that the best is yet to come. We have each other, even from afar or through the audio waves of whatever method you are listening to. We have like-minded friends and a community. You can find that at the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network. If we focus on the love that Christ has for you and how you want to grow this coming year, rejoice because the Savior of the World is with you today and always!
Your challenge this week is to look, to be aware and to rejoice and be glad, to turn that frown upside down and smile, and to say, the Savior loves me, and I love Him. Rejoice and be glad! May God’s blessings be upon you today and always.
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Image: The Dream of St. Joseph by Mengs, 1773
Perplexed? Exchange Your Plans for God’s Plans!Are you perplexed or bewildered over changes that have come into your life? Mary and Joseph had to change their plans often. Why not ask God to help you lean into these changes? God can give you the best results ever when you willingly exchange your plans for God’s plans!
Advent JOYWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #5, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events And Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ. Today, we travel with Matthew’s Gospel and meet some unexpected members in Jesus’ ancestry and hear of Joseph’s dream and his faithfulness to Mary. Matthew fills us in on details of Mary’s return home to her betrothed Joseph after her visit with Elizabeth.
The Family Record (Mathew 1: 1-7, 16-17)* So, we start with Matthew 1. At the time of Jesus, families kept a genealogical record (or family tree) for use in the distribution of inherited property and other rights under Jewish laws. * Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI points out that Matthew 1 is not a perfect historical account that includes every single member in the ancestry of Jesus Christ, saying: ”This was not Matthew’s goal.“ (Jesus of Nazareth: The Infancy Narratives, 2012, p. 8). * Matthew wrote to appeal to the Jews by placing Jesus first and foremost as the Son of Abraham—the Patriarch and Father of Israel promised as part of an everlasting covenant with God (Genesis 17: 6-7), and as the Son of David—the priestly King of Israel, whose ancestors were prophesied to reign forever (2 Samuel: 7:13).
Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba in the Lineage of Jesus Jewish lineages at the time of Christ, usually did not contain names of women. But in Matthew’s list of Christ’s ancestry five women are mentioned. Of course, we would expect the Blessed Virgin Mary to be named. But there were four others listed—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba who came from foreign ancestry or had a reputation for immorality that could have disqualified them from inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ. All were Gentile women, who turned away from immoralities or idolatries to become faithful to God in their circumstances. * Even if your past life or your “family tree” seems dishonorable, Jesus will give you forgiveness, grace, mercy, and a new beginning when you turn to Him for mercy and forgiveness*. You are part of the family of God, and every day you can have a new life in Christ. Hebrews 2: 11 reinforces this: “God is not ashamed to call them [or you] brothers and sisters.” * Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI writing on the deeper meaning of the genealogies of Jesus says:
“[T]hose who believe in Jesus enter through faith into Jesus’ unique new origin, and they receive this origin as their own…Jesus was not begotten by Joseph but was truly born of the Holy Spirit from the Virgin Mary, so it can now be said of us that our true ‘genealogy’ is faith in Jesus who gives us a new origin and …to birth ‘from God” (Jesus of Nazareth, p. 12-13).
Found with Child (Matthew 1: 18-25) Dreams were a common way that God communicated with His people in the Old Testament. Joseph did not hesitate in his response to the angel in the dream. He trusted God to work everything out. He willingly exchanged his plans for God’s plans. In fact we could say he leaned into God’s plans.* * And Joseph, from the tribe of Judah and the house of David, who was a carpenter by trade, became the legal head of this precious family (Abbott Ricciotti, The Life of Christ, 1947). What a role model Joseph is to families—looking for God’s plans and leaning into them. This was the beginning of Joseph’s mission for life. Some have said it this way, Joseph was born for this vocation — to be the father of Jesus and to be Mary’s most chaste spouse. Like Mary, Joseph said, “yes” to his vocation. His entire happiness was in knowing what God wanted him to do and carrying it out to the end ( Fernandez, Conversation with God, Vol. 1, 1997). He was devoted to God and family.
Our Response1. Lean into God’s Plans. Can you picture the perplexity or bewilderment of Joseph when his plans suddenly changed? He may have been building the house, planning the wedding, or earning extra money for the marriage. Whatever the case, he was not prepared to hear that Mary was with child. Then God through an angel in a dream gave him more direction. He leaned in the changes. You can ask yourself: Am I open to changing my plans to fit with God’s plan? Talk to Jesus about how you can stay open to God’s plans? What changes can you lean into? 2. Accept Your Place in God’s Family. When you feel unworthy or unqualified to be part of our Lords family and an adopted son or daughter of God, remember Tamar, Rahab, Ruth. These women changed direction to follow God with their lives and they joined His family and are listed in lineage of Jesus. Your family is never too far gone or too unworthy. In prayer, consider asking God to forgive you and your family. Ask him to help you change directions. Then do what he tells you. * You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from the Advent JOY Podcast #5 at my website: WRAPyYourselfinJOY.com
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Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
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Elyse O’Kane is a wife, mother and teacher and Catholic singer and songwriter. She has used her musical talents to lead liturgical music groups and has been music ministry chairwoman for the Joyful Visitation Mgnificat Chapter in Atlanta, GA. In 1991 she wrote a joyous melody to Mary’s Magnificat which has become the theme song for the Magnificat Ministry. Her friends encouraged her to record the many songs she composed but because of her fears of inadequacy she was reluctant but with the love and support of her prayer community she received the courage tor record her first CD. Her testimony will tell how God prepared her for this ministry through a number of personal challenges that allowed her to experience the love of Jesus and his healing power. Through it all she learned how God can and will do extraordinary things with ordinary people. All he needs is our ‘Fiat’, our ‘Yes’.
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The Incarnation of Jesus is so crucial. Jesus is God’s love made manifest to the world! For this reason, St. Francis of Assisi saw Christmas as the highest of the feast days! When he made his conversion, God started to work in him in new and beautiful ways and right at the heart of it was Jesus coming as man. St. Francis was so touched by the humility of Jesus in coming like one of us that he set up the first nativity scene. He reasoned that it would move people’s hearts to see this with their own eyes. He set up a live nativity scene.
Blessed John Duns Scotus, a 13th century Franciscan philosopher, was convinced that love is central and that even if man had never sinned, God the Father still would have sent Jesus to manifest the Father’s love for us. So, Jesus coming to reveal the love of the Father is the reason for the season of Christmas. It’s fundamentally important for us to not just know what we’re doing, but why we’re doing what we’re doing. Looking at why the Father sent Jesus is just as important. When we understand God’s purpose in sending Jesus, we gain critical insight into the Father and the Son and who we are to them and who they are to us.
Christmas has become so secularized, but Christmas is really about God’s love. Yes, Jesus came to save us from our sin, but the reason WHY is because of God’s deep and intimate love for each one of us. All of creation is born out of the love of God! Jesus does save us from our sin, but the fact that He came out of the depth of His saves us from the attraction to sin…His love is so much more attractive! Jesus opens up the life of the Father and work of the Spirit and the life of the Holy Trinity. Out of that intimacy revealed in the Incarnation of Jesus a life of holiness flows and is the transformative power of our lives. Cooperating with – receiving and responding to His love – is the Kingdom of Heaven that is at hand!
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Donna Ross is the Coordinator of the Central Service Team in the Magnificat Ministry, a Ministry to Catholic Women. This submission was taken from the December CST Newsletter 2022 for the Magnificat Ministry. Magnificat hosts quarterly Meals where powerful witness stories are shared to touch hearts and change lives. We are called to be people of hope bringing people closer to Jesus. Hope can stand for H-hearing, O-others, P-peoples, E-experiences. It is time to have a holy boldness like never before in proclaiming the goodness of the Lord.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Zechariah writes, His Name is John!
Needing Calm? Seek Stillness with God!Are you needing calm in your life? Today, we are dropping in on a very special celebration of John the Baptist’s birth. You might hold the baby, newly named John, or share with all the neighbors your astonishment at the miracle birth. You will hear Zechariah speak for the first time in 9 months. When he does, he teaches us the value of stillness with God. His silent retreat results in the joyous Benedictus blessing. Stillness with God will do the same for you, giving you more joy and peace!
Advent JOY & the Celebration at Zechariah’s HomeWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #4, based on my book The Joy Of Advent: Journey With The People, Events And Prayers At The First Coming Of Jesus Christ.
Today, we are going to a celebration at Zechariah’s home. It’s the circumcision and naming of his newborn boy. Can’t you just picture yourself as one of the neighbors who has come to help name the baby born to the old priest Zechariah and his aged wife Elizabeth. Can you hear yourself say:
“This must be some kind of child—a miracle baby! What a blessing from the Lord for Elizabeth! Poor old Zechariah was struck mute the last time he went up to serve in the temple.” Join the podcast as we cover these exciting points:
The Circumcision and the Sacrament of Baptism (Luke 1: 56-59) The neighbors come to celebrate the birth and help with the circumcision. * Circumcision was established as a rite by God under the Old Covenant, usually performed on the 8th day after birth. It was a mark on a male and a sign that he was in covenant with God, sanctified for divine service and a member of the Jewish people. * Under the New Covenant, circumcision is not a religious ritual for us (Galatians 5: 6). * The ritual of circumcision has a few similarities to the Sacrament of Baptism: It is celebrated with family and friends and Godparents. * For the Christian, baptism is a sign one belongs to Christ, is united with Him in His death, and is incorporated into the Church (Hahn, Catholic Bible Dictionary*).
The Neighbors Want to Name the Baby Zechariah (Luke 1: 60-66) When Elizabeth, says no to the name, Zechariah confirms, His name is JOHN*. * Immediately, Zechariah’s mouth is open and his tongue is freed. * St. Ambrose writes, “With good reason was his tongue loosed, because faith untied what had been tied by disbelief.”
Zechariah’s Silent Retreat Results in Joyous Benedictus Blessings (Luke 1: 67-79) In stillness with God, Zechariah grew in faith, peace and trust. * Benedictus means Blessed be..the Lord. * Zechariah’s prophecy is called a canticle which means “little song”- a liturgical song from a Biblical text. * Zechariah expresses thanks for: (1) The promises that would be fulfilled in the Messiah (Genesis 22: 16-17; Exodus 2: 24; Ezekiel 36: 28) and (2) His Son John, prophet of the Most High, who would go before the Lord to prepare His way, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins.*
Responding to the Scripture Seek God in stillness. Pick out a morning or evening during Advent. Turn off all media and be present with the Lord in adoration, prayer, and Scripture. Sit with Him and LISTEN. You may find new vision, new peace and a deeper relationship with God – the one God wants with you. * Let God redeem you.* If you are living in any darkness or carrying baggage, Jesus wants to carry your baggage, forgive your sin, and give you peace. “By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from the Advent JOY Podcast #4 at my website: WRAPyourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
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True Faith ~ Episode 233What is true faith? In light of so much counterfeit around us, it is difficult for many people to understand truth vs. fiction. Even during Biblical times, those who witnessed the miracles of Jesus still struggled to believe. Well, take heart! In this episode, we will delve into the truth that will set your free.
The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network is made up of uplifting shows. Be sure to tune in weekly and visit the show page for new shows that are added. UCPN.com, and be sure to check out the sponsor for today’s episode, the movie 5000 Blankets – This holiday season, be reminded that one of the best ways to make the most out of your hard season is to help someone else in theirs! #5000blanketsmovie.com and if you missed the quick release in theatres, it should come out soon on Pureflix.
The church’s teaching authority gave us the Bible that we have today. This way, we can look to the Word of God to confirm our beliefs. Many of those in authority at the time were eyewitnesses of Jesus Christ and recorded His words for all of us today. We believe the Bible is the inerrant word of guide inspired by the Holy Spirit. We also have recordings of teachings that did not make it into the Bible or books believed not to be inspired.
Many of you know of St. Thomas Aquinas, a theologian known for his clarity in the discussion of faith and morals. He says that true faith does not only agree with what is known because he said that even demons do this – they acknowledge the truth but do not have faith. He says that faith requires an act of our will. Remember, we have free choice, a gift from Almighty God. We have the ability to act with free will, not just with our intelligence or intellect. God is God, and His love for us, as incomprehensible as it might be, does not hinge on whether we choose Him or not. We are the ones that have conditional love – it is easier to love those who love us. With God, He is pure love. He loves because that is His nature.
There is a definitive difference between faith that is true and belief. We submit ourselves to God’s will for our lives, a free choice. It is not one that is forced. We agree because, for some of us, not doing so would be inconceivable. If we have true faith, we believe what is taught; for me, that is contained in full in the Nicene Creed or the shorter Apostles Creed. We recite one of these each time I attend Mass. I agree through my free will.
Just as we submit to the authority of the governing body of our town, state or government, so do we submit to the teaching authority of our church. If we disagree, this is not true faith.
I know it sounds like we are getting deep today – but the point is that understanding helps, but true faith is a free-will action. By growing in faith, we can live a life that is not only fulfilling but one of true peace. The peace that surpasses all understanding. Let me read the following passage from Philippians 4: 4-10
Read this passage on your own and think about the words that leap out at you. Several of these for me are ones I talk about often; one is to praise God in all things. Verse 4 states to rejoice in the Lord always. The second is to Let your gentleness be known to everyone. As Christians, we are encouraged to love everyone, not only those who love us. In this way, we show the love of Christ to others. Easy right? Probably a struggle for many of us if we are truthful. Only God can give us the grace we need to carry on as we should. This passage also reminds us that the Lord is near. We always have the Holy Spirit with us, and what a powerful reminder to us all that the Lord is always here. Our faith is inspired by those who went before us but to think that the Creator of the universe cares for each one of us is so amazing. But one of the things we all crave is peace. The scripture reminds us that … the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Why does it say it surpasses all understanding? I believe this touches on what we discussed earlier. Understanding or intellect is a part of faith but deciding to live our faith by a free-will offering is what is difficult for many to comprehend, especially today.
Pray about this and allow the Lord to come into your life in a powerful way because while there is head understanding, the heart must be genuinely engaged for true peace. The peace of Christ is something you may feel from time to time. When I’ve had the opportunity and privilege to be in deep prayer, I don’t want to return to this world. I feel such a deep sense of peace, reverence, and awe. It is like the most perfect dream and only to wake up to the reality of life. Our lives are a blessing but let’s face it; the challenges sometimes are overpowering.
The challenge is real, especially for our faith. We struggle with our faith when we think we know better. As people with free will, we know what we want and want now. If you had your choice of an easy life or a life filled with hardship, which would you choose? An easy life, right?
But what is in the fine print of an easy life? An easy life to some may be doing whatever you want, whenever you want, and with whomever you want. As we know, some of us sadly, from experience, this can lead to heartbreak and dysfunction.
True faith is steeped in love, a conscious and free-will decision, and it encompasses and allows the love of God to permeate our lives.
- Putting on the armor of God to defeat the wicked one – Ephesians 6:9-11 and verse 10-11 which states: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the devil’s wiles.”
- Putting God’s will above our own. He knows best. Believe it as a truth. Meditate on the idea of God’s will.
- Be open to spending time with God. For true and good faith, we need to spend time and allow the Lord to touch our hearts.
- Remove ourselves from sin and temptation. I think we all know what that means in our own lives.
- Attend church regularly, not when we feel like it!
As we strive to balance out the head knowledge with our hearts, I pray that each of your challenges this week focus on what is true and good in your life and see where the stumbling blocks of faith exist and work on those slowly each day.
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In this episode, we talk about Chapter 4, Talk it Out, from the book, Habits of Freedom: 5 Ignatian tools for Clearing your Mind and Resting Daily in the Lord by Fr. Christopher J. Collins, SJ.
Deacon John and I had similar yet different takeaways from this chapter. First, the idea or rather, the reality that as children and young people growing up in our families, Jesus was not mentioned outside of church. We went to Mass and maybe talked a bit about the homily on the walk home and then that was all until next week. A great irony when you think about what John and I both do now!
Jesus is not only an intellectual pursuit or study. Yes, we can learn about Him and talk about Him but we also need to talk to Him!
Consolation/DesolationConversation with others can lead us to desolation or consolation. If we are having a “pity party” and our companion adds to it all then we fall deeper into desolation, maybe withdraw a bit more and keep turning inward. This is not a good idea. In these times, allow “Jesus to interrupt you.” I (Deanna) also liked the idea of talking aloud to Jesus.
John had a bit to say about how his thoughts have changed over time about my need to talk, but I think it’s more interesting to listen to him than have me write it!
Ultimately, reaching out to another helps us tremendously in receiving consolation.
Not Lukewarm ChallengeWhen you begin to feel like you are spending too much in your thoughts or head and it’s leading you down a path you don’t want to go, find one trusted person to talk to; it can help!
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Identity is at the core of human and spiritual integration. It’s key to us being able to act from a mature human place and to being spiritually mature. There are so many things that clamor for our identity and that some gravitate towards – being a member of a certain club, or organization, having wealth or affluence, being a member or fan of a team. While none of these things are bad, they are NOT where our identity lies and provide no basis for our identity.
I was listening to a podcast recently by the founder of the South African Satanic Church who recently converted to Christianity because of a profound experience of Jesus. He said that one of the things people are told when they join the satanic church is that they were rejected in other experiences in life because they were meant to be satanists. Ugh! Can you see the battle for their identity? We see the same thing in our culture where so many suffer and struggle for their identity from their sexual brokenness. It’s so heartbreaking because, again, this is not where our identity lies. St. Paul said, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). He’s laying out where our foundational identity is – in the Lord!
We even see in Jesus’ life how essential His identity was and how at the beginning of His public ministry the Father publicly announced His identity as His Beloved Son in whom He was well pleased. Jesus’ identity as the Beloved Son of the Father was crucial to His life as both human and Divine. At the foot of the Cross we see Our Lady, St. John the Beloved, and Mary Magdalene, all of whom had come to know their identity as loved by God in a particular way.
When our identity is founded in who we are as God’s children, we gain courage and confidence. Courage by definition means to take heart. It’s a big difference if we’re taking our own heart or the Lord’s Heart! Confidence means acting with faith. How essential that we act with faith in Him rather than faith in ourselves! That’s a game changer!
Our identity IS in being God’s children! He who is all good, loving, wise, knowing, powerful and Creator of all that is calls us His own children, His own sons and daughters. Being His child means there’s a relationship. It’s not just a role or title, but refers to the relationship He brings us into by His Spirit of Adoption. Knowing we are chosen, known, valued, protected, and provided for by HIM – THAT is where our identity lies.
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Mary & Elizabeth – A Visit Filled with JOY
The Blessed Visit – Do you need more JOY in your life? Who doesn’t? Advent is the perfect time to receive more JOY and share it with others! Mary and Elizabeth will show us how.
Join us today as we travel with Mary 90 miles to the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth. We will drop in on a special meeting of hearts, to partake in the delight, the prayer, and the JOY of Fellowship.
The Advent JOY PodcastWelcome to Advent JOY Podcast #3, based on my book The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ. Last week we looked in on the Great Annunciation and heard how God supernaturally beget the Son of God in the Virgin Mary and gave an old woman Elizabeth, past her time of conceiving, a child. We discovered any barrenness in life can become a breakthrough! “For nothing is impossible with God!”
Advent JOY in the Hill CountryToday, we travel with Mary down the 90-mile road from Nazareth back to the Hill Country of Judea, near Jerusalem. We will drop in on the visit that Mary makes to her old cousin Elizabeth. Both women are with child, both are rejoicing over the births to come, and both are thrilled to see each other. Join the podcast today as we cover these exciting points:
The Blessed Visit – Leaping for JOY (Luke 1: 39-45)* John the Baptist leaps for Joy * Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaims words of JOY. * Mary praises and skips with JOY. * Jesus is always joy filled—even in the womb!
The JOY of Fellowship – God Knows Our Need (Luke 1: 31-33) Fellowship in the Scriptures is translated from New Testament Greek Koinonia,* occurring 20 times in the New Testament. * Elizabeth brought out Mary’s JOY and Mary brought out Elizabeth’s JOY. True fellowship strengthens and encourages faith. * Elizabeth praises Mary for believing Gabriel. * The Holy Spirit reveals the presence of Jesus in Mary’s womb to Elizabeth.
The Magnificat – Mary’s Song of Praise (Luke 1: 46-56) Magnificat was the first word in Luke 1: 46 found in St. Jerome’s Latin translation of the Bible (4th century common language of the people) and it means “my soul magnifies.” * The Magnificat is a canticle – a liturgical song from a Biblical text. * The Magnificat shows Mary’s love for Scripture. She knew the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) well. * The Magnificat* reflects themes from many Old Testament Scriptures – the powerful arm of God, His mercy to all, His justice and faithfulness, and His care for the poor and afflicted (e.g., 1 Samuel 2:1-10 and Psalm 34:2, 35: 9, 103: 17, 107: 9, 132: 11, 138: 6).
Three Months of Sharing Hearts* We can only imagine the comfort Mary and Elizabeth must have been to each other. They talked of the Scriptures to be fulfilled because they knew well the promises regarding the Messiah and the one who would precede Him. They shared the stories about Gabriel as each had been changed by his message. They would have known of Gabriel’s former visitations and announcements recorded in Daniel 9.
Advent Application We can respond to these verses of JOY shared between Mary and Elizabeth by 1) Asking God for Advent JOY (He wants to give us His JOY), 2) Rejoicing in God’s goodness, 3) Preserving a quiet time for prayer, and 4) Sharing JOY with others, especially during Advent. God has JOY for YOU.*
Check out more podcasts here!
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from the Advent JOY Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post Advent JOY #3 – The Blessed Visit & the JOY of Fellowship appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Faith Comes In Small Packages ~ Episode 232Many precious gifts are small similar to our faith. Faith comes in small packages. What a blessing and something we often overlook. Instead, we often look for those “Faith-Grand-Gestures.” What are those small things that make faith so precious in our life? Consider this in light of the often over-the-top celebrations happening all around us. Truly the biggest blessing are gifts we can’t buy and that is the key to faith!
Thanks to our sponsor the movie – 5000 Blankets, this is a quick theatre release in December It’s incredible what can happen when you transform your heart to serve the people around you. Catch 5000 BLANKETS exclusively in theaters for two days only! December 12 & 13. Tickets at https://www.fathomevents.com/events/5000-Blankets and for more information go to https://www.5000blanketsmovie.com/
What are those things that come in small packages that you cherish? Take a minute to think about this. I have a list of about five things I can think of that are small and important to me. When we look at faith in this way we can see that those small things add up to something priceless. The way we practice our faith should not be a burden or a list of things we have to do, it should be a lifestyle that is effortless. As I’ve shared in previous episodes Christians feel that we don’t give up anything for our faith but that our faith gives us so much more than we can ever repay or give back.
The happiest people I know are the ones that do things for others. My brother, through an unfortunate surgery, lost sight in one of his eyes. He went from a high-powered job to staying at home and living with a disability. Yet, I’ve watched him through the years and his recovery process and he is happier than now and has become involved in various charities. One is where he goes to the schools and reads to kids, another is the Beds for Kids program where the charitable organization works with foster parents to obtain new beds for the kids they foster. He is so happy and animated when he talks about these things, even if he can no longer drive because of his eyesight. While it is difficult for his family, they have all learned to cope and appreciate the gift of life.
In giving to others, we are blessed. That is also an underlying theme of the Christian faith which underscores love for others above self. I think we all know people that put themselves first and they are not happy. Or, if they appear happy to others those who know them well can see the underlying hurt.
It is easy to rejoice in all things when everything is going well, but what about when we have those hardships in our lives? The way we react shows us how we truly are in our walk with the Lord. At one time when finances were tight, I remember rejoicing in all of the things I was surrounded with that were free. One thing was the beautiful sky or the wonderful weather. The other was the love of family and friends. Another is the joy of being able to come to you weekly and proclaim the joys of the Christian faith. These are truly simple pleasures but can be part of the overall joy of celebrating God’s love.
It is good to remember that we should be awake and notice the things happening around us and in this way be awakened to the truth of salvation. Romans 13:11-14 states
The weeks leading up to the Christmas season remind us that Christ is the light and as we know the light dispels darkness. When we are in sin we often don’t recognize it, but later when we see it, we realize that we were in a sense in the dark. That is why I make an effort to see the good in things big and small.
The joy of having family near or spending time with my kids when they are visiting home. The time I spend with a dear friend or even an acquaintance at church. I remember hearing that when we smile at a stranger it might be the only smile they get that day. Can you imagine? We get caught up in our own world and our own problems that we often forget the hardships of others.
When we think about faith coming in small packages we can point to the scene in the manager at the birth of Christ. The fear that Mary and Joseph had to overcome to bring the Savior into the world. The confusion when they were visited by the wise men or the Magi, then by the coming of the shepherds who heard the herald or calling of the angels and followed the star. What a miracle and so many things to think about and ponder in their heart. We hear that about Mary in the scriptures that she pondered things in her heart. I may have shared with you that I love the movie The Nativity because it depicts Mary and Joseph in a way that brings home their humble roots and their hardships and makes the birth of Christ so real and heartfelt. One of my favorite scenes is when a poor shepherd allows them to share his fire as they rest for a short time on their journey he says that he is no one, and Mary says that the child is for everyone.
That tiny bundle, that small package was touching the hearts of men and women before he was hours old. If we open our hearts to those small things in our spiritual lives, we will find our faith grow.
The tiny package in our lives can consist of love, joy, and peace. Those three small words pack a punch and can increase our love and our faith. Your challenge this week is to look for those small and often forgotten joys that we often overlook and thank and praise God for this and for all things!
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Continuing with Habits of Freedom by Christopher S. Collins, SJChapter 3, Reject the LieJesus’ identity was rooted in God the Father. He knew He was God’s beloved Son. We see that right after His baptism, Jesus is tempted in the desert by the evil one.
Let’s not quickly dismiss Jesus’ ability to withstand temptation, as it says on page 42, Jesus is very good at not falling for the tricks and manipulations of the enemy. I think sometimes we say, well, of course, He is Jesus, He can stand up to the evil one.
So can we!Our identity is rooted in the same place, the love of God the Father; we are His Beloved child.
Life is full of desolation and consolation. And most of us prefer consolation. Yet we can easily fall into desolation, especially when we do this one that Fr. Collins admits he does, and I know I do it. We question God! We don’t accept the good the Father has for us; we “talk back.”
We hear, “You are my beloved, I delight in you. You give so much of yourself to others; thank you.” And instead of saying thanks, God. We say, “but the other day I screwed up and I’m annoyed with my co-worker and snapped, and, well it can be an endless explanation to the Father as to why He ought not to think well of you!
When we stay in the present, not the past or the future, we are less likely to fall into desolation.
This week, when you pray, listen to what God has to say to you. How you are good and a delight and the apple of His eye. Whatever the words or sense or image you receive, write it down. And when you find yourself going toward a downward spiral of I’m not good enough, read what God gave you in prayer. And accept it with gratitude and love.
I’m also going to tell you this, I have created a course around this topic of getting rid of the past lies we believe and negative thinking that prevents us from living in the truth of how much we are loved and cherished by God. Take a look here to get a free download or sign up for a free webinar.
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DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
We pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this reflection. Magnificat, taken from Luke: 1, is the great hymn of praise that Mary prayed while visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. We trust that this reflection will help us all better understand that we are truly children of God, made in His image and likeness. We want to come together in God’s presence and proclaim that the Almighty has done great things for you and me and holy is His Name!
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post Parable of the Lost Sheep by Deacon David Hockwalt 12.6.2022 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Elizabeth was born in NY where she was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. By adolescence she grew dissatisfied to her lack of answers to her questions about certain beliefs. Since Elizabeth entered the Catholic Church in 1983 she immersed herself in reading about everything she could about her new faith and with supernatural phenomena such as Eucharistic miracles, stigmata, and apparitions. Then progressed to Church history, the saints and apologetics, the defense of the faith. The more she read the reasons Elizabeth found to love the Catholic faith. Elizabeth resides with her husband and four boys in Ohio where their Catholic faith remains the center of their family life. She has been a guest on the EWTN talk shows for Marcus Grodi, Johnette Benkovich, Fr. Benedict Groeschel and Doug Keck.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
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In the last podcast with Coach Kelly Herrmann, there was something she shared about how she has approached coaching over the years that helped her align her actions with her beliefs. I was really struck by it, and it has been a gift to me to distill those principles out of the arena of athletics (pun intended) and this is something that applies to all of us regardless of if we are athletes, coaches, parents, students, professionals, single, married, religious sisters, brothers, or clergy.
What Coach shared was that she realized she had to do was to develop her philosophy of coaching based on the truth and align her goals with those priorities. These are steps we can all take to help make our lives more meaningful, purposeful, consistent, and integrated. Without doing so, we can tend to relegate spiritual things to Sunday or Church. By being conscious and intentional about establishing our priorities so as to lead to our goals which are consistent with our philosophy founded and grounded in the Truth.
In doing this, I really see the most foundational truth of life is the TRUTH – who is the person of Jesus. Blessed John Duns Scotus, a Franciscan philosopher in the 13th century said that Jesus came to manifest the love of God the Father. He also taught that the greatest thing we can do is to choose to love the good and God is the greatest good. This being my philosophy lays out the goals 1) receiving God’s love, 2) loving Him as the greatest good, 3) loving what He loves (me and others) and 4) affirming the good. I’ve found that affirming the good in others, especially when they’re being difficult or challenging is naturally before me because I know in a very thought-out way it aligns with my philosophy and the truth of who God is and who I am in Him.
I’ve found this to be a very helpful decision-making tool and helps me keep my behaviors in line with my beliefs. I challenge you to pray about it and consider doing it. I hope it blesses you as much as it has blessed me.
May the Lord give you peace!
Margaret
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Christmas Countdown To Faith ~ Episode 231As the Christmas countdown begins the challenge is to keep your faith focused as you navigate the commercialism of the season. In this podcast Felice suggests you count down to a renewal of faith as you approach the commemoration of the birth of our Lord.| As the Christmas countdown begins the challenge is to keep your faith focused as you navigate the commercialism of the season. In this podcast Felice suggests you count down to a renewal of faith as you approach the commemoration of the birth of our Lord.
Thanks to our sponsor the movie – 5000 Blankets, this is a quick theatre release in December It’s incredible what can happen when you transform your heart to serve the people around you. Catch 5000 BLANKETS exclusively in theaters for two days only! December 12 & 13. Tickets are at here and for more information go to https://www.5000blanketsmovie.com/
Well, it is almost Christmas (and the Christmas countdown has begun!) and once again many homes are buzzing but for all the wrong reasons. Raise your hand if you have the decorations up or are getting ready to decorate. I listened to a video presentation on Advent, and it reminded me that decorations for most Christians didn’t start until December 24th the true beginning of the Christmas season. Is it wrong to have the decorations up? No of course not! I had a full house Thanksgiving weekend and I put all my kids to work, they have it down to a science now and each of them has a favorite thing they like to do. One son buys me poinsettia plants early before they run out on sale, and another son plants them for me. My daughter is the expert on decorating the stairs, and another son works on the arrangements above the cabinets in the kitchen. In years past I haven’t even decorated much of the tree, but this year that was my job after they put on all the lights.
Our preparations look different depending on our family and yet I hope that all of you have “preparation,” in mind as we look forward to Christmas Day. We are in a time of expectation, hoping, and wanting. Our family tradition is to light candles on the Advent wreath. We didn’t do this when I was a child, but my own children have grown up with this tradition. We light candles one for each week leading up to Christmas and read a passage of Scripture and pray. It is a wonderful tradition that brings the coming of our Lord closer to our hearts and our mind.
My son shared that his pastor preached about getting closer to God during the Advent season. While Lent is a time of penance and giving up our sins and vices, Advent is a time of preparation as well. I listened to one of my favorite YouTube priests, Fr. Alar and he talked about the messages that are varied from other pastors about what this season means.
For many of us, it is a time of parties and eating those goodies we only see this time of the year. I believe that God knows we live in “this world,” and we must balance our lives with the obligations of family and even friends. That doesn’t mean we can’t keep our faith in the forefront of our minds during this special season, leading up to one of the greatest miracles God coming to us as a child!
There are only two times of the year when there is a countdown if you will remember an event important in the lives of Christians. One is Advent the birth of Christ and the other is Lent a remembrance of the life, death, and resurrection of our Savior. Both times we prepare, and both times we celebrate the day in commemoration of Christ.
I like to prepare for Advent with the small book, “The Season of Light” by Jay Cormier. It contains daily prayers for the lighting of the Advent Wreath as well as time for contemplation and personal prayer. A key element is praising God in all things. I also like to spend time each day being thankful and that helps to put things in perspective.
Lately, I’ve had a rash of techie issues, and usually, I don’t get upset, but this time I was beyond annoyed. So, as I begin complaining I think instead, praise God, praise God, praise God! Otherwise, I’ll spend my time in frustration. These are little things we can do that make life so much better and put the focus off ourselves and onto God giving Him praise.
I love John 1:1:5 and John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
This was one of the Scripture verses that hit me hard at one low point in my life. The Word was with God and the Word was God – the Word of God is Christ, and He was there at the beginning of the Creation.
As Christians one thing, we can do is mediate on God’s word, and you will find as I often do that passages you’ve read before take on an entirely different meaning. Sometimes it is because of what is happening in our lives and other times it is as if the Lord gives us a new awareness of the words. My heart just soars with thanksgiving and it is so wonderful to think that God cared for us so much as to send His only Son.
How exciting that we can pray as we await the celebration on Christmas Day and rejoice! Your challenge this week is to place God as the focus of your thoughts and prayers and celebrate Advent the weeks before Christmas in a way that gives all the glory to God.
The post Christmas Countdown To Faith appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
What is our true identity?
“We cannot be truly happy until we are truly free, and we to know who it is that we truly are if we are to be truly free.”
Habits of Freedom, pg 20
EveAs in adam and Eve, she engages in a ‘what if ‘ conversation with the snake. She speculates. Wonders. Thinks about what if? Instead of focusing on now and engaging in conversation, aka, prayer, with God.
We do the same thing. Making time for God each day will give us an intimate relationship with him. It keeps us on an even keel and able to handle our lives better.
Jesus’ BaptismIn Luke 3:21-22,
After all the people had been baptized and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, heaven was opened and the holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
God the Father is well pleased with Jesus. He is well-pleased with you too!This week, pray and meditate with Luke 3:21-22. Hear what the Father says to Jesus and listen to what He has to say to you.If you’d like to read and discuss the Sunday Mass REadings, join us on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 pm (ET). You can sign up here to receive the link. The post Where does our True Identity come from? appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Olga began the ministry of evangelization in 1991. Her desire to help those in need allowed God to use her in doing extraordinary things despite her feelings of inadequacy, fear of failure and the unknown. Prayer, God’s Word and Sacraments and the power of the Holy Spirit gave her the courage to say ‘yes’ to all he had called her to do. She confirms Pope John Paul’s words that ‘faith is strengthened when it is shared.’ Through her many challenging experiences, God continues to teach her that nothing is impossible with God. Do not be afraid. God gave her the courage to bring the ministry of Magnificat to Atlanta in 1991 and to serve as the SE Regional Rep Advisory Board of the Central Service Team of Magnificat. Olga is married to Roy, she is the mother of three grown children and grandmother of seven. She has taught elementary school in Florida and Georgia.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post Testimony of Olga Myers Atlanta 2007 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Join me for the final episode in this series with Coach Herrmann and I discuss the role sports can play in character formation!
Coach Kelly Herrmann – now a wife, mom, grandma, health coach, author, and speaker was a fixture in sports at Franciscan University of Steubenville for decades. Having given up a full ride to play division one basketball, she attended FUS and was athletic director, head coach of women’s basketball and volleyball and intramural coordinator. She has refereed, umpired, announced games, coached little league soccer, run sports summer camps, and mentored other coaches. She’s a wealth of experience and knowledge and comes from a faithfully Catholic perspective.
Coach explains that the key to integrating faith in sports is to have a clear philosophy based on truth. Then have clear priorities based on that philosophy. Coach Kelly shares about a time when Franciscan men’s and women’s basketball teams traveled together. On the bus the two teams sat separated by the coaches in the middle. One of her players came to her and asked if they could mix in with the men’s team on the way back from the game for the sake of bonding with the men’s team. She easily denied the request and was able to explain to her player that bonding with the men’s team wasn’t a priority, whereas study, rest, bonding with her fellow teammates were priorities. She was able to quickly make a good decision and explain it with a solid basis to the player who was able to accept it. It wasn’t an arbitrary refusal. There was a purpose behind it. Priorities serve the goal and move you in the direction of reaching those goals. Set and stay faithful to your priorities.
As Christians, evangelizing is always a goal – seeking to witness faith everywhere. There are situations in sports that force a coach and player to be countercultural. A few examples are things like controlling one’s temper, language, service in relationships, and modesty. If you know your priorities, you can easily come to the right decision in such situations regardless of the zeitgeist of the day.
Some practical steps you can implement today are to define your philosophy of play and coaching based on St. John Paul II’s injunction to follow the Divine Master in everything. Based on that, define your priorities, then integrate those priorities throughout your approach to sports. Finally, don’t be afraid to be countercultural! BE BOLD!
To connect with Coach Kelly Herrmann for speaking engagements, she can be reached at kherrmanniam@outlook.com.
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Advent JOY in NazarethHello Friends, Welcome to the Advent JOY series, Podcast #2, based on my book The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ. Last week we met the Archangel Gabriel who suddenly appeared to the old priest Zechariah while in the temple after 430 years of silence from heaven. The encounter with Gabriel ended up with Zechariah receiving a 9-month silent retreat for his unbelief. Today, we travel with Luke about 90 miles from the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth north to a small town in Galilee to the hometown of Mary and Joseph to hear the Great Annunciation. Join the podcast today as we cover these exciting points:
Gabriel Brings Another Message (Luke 1: 26-30) The powerful Archangel Gabriel brings the second announcement – this time to a young girl in Nazareth. * This most important heavenly message comes to a girl in a remote village where you might least expect it to occur. BUT God causes miracles to happen in the most unlikely and even ungodly places when people are open to Him. * The recipient of the Great Annunciation is Mary*, a virgin teenager, engaged to Joseph in the lineage of David which points to the Old Testament prophesies soon to be fulfilled.
Jesus, Named After His Heavenly Father (Luke 1: 31-33) The Baby would be named Jesus which is Yeshua in Hebrew and derived from Yahweh – the Most Holy Name of God in the Old Testament. The message is clear: Yahweh God would name His son Yeshua after Himself.* Truly, Jesus would be the Son of God and fulfill The prophecy in Isaiah 7: 14: Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His named Immanuel (God with us).
Mary’s Fiat (Luke 1: 34-38) “Fiat” is the first word of Luke 1: 38 in early Bible translation (Latin) and it means “let it be.” This was Mary’s “YES.” * Mary received the Word of God*, surrendered, and entrusted herself and her life to God’s will. Mary gives us this example of how to seek and accept God’s will: Listen, Dialogue with God, and Surrender.
God’s Power Some may find it hard to believe in the virgin birth. But the virgin birth and incarnation are essential parts of our Christian faith. The incarnation means God became man, reaching out to mankind. In no other religion does God “become flesh” (John 1: 14), “accept the limitations of humanity,” come to earth to show His love, and then die for the sins of all (Fulton Sheen, 1958, Life of Christ, p. 19). St. Augustine says that when we cannot understand this miracle, “Let us grant that God can do something which we confess we cannot fathom. God is the God of the impossible!” (John Willis, 2002, Teachings of the Church Fathers). * For example, Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli told God he felt barren in his old age and then received a great miracle! * If you are unsure about God’s power to accomplish miracle*s or significant changes in your own life, consider this: If God can supernaturally beget the Son of God in a virgin and give an old woman Elizabeth, past her time of conceiving a child, God can fix the barrenness in your life too. If you feel unproductive or barren, ask the Holy Spirit to come upon you in new ways and to open new doors where least expected. He will give you a breakthrough! “For nothing is impossible with God!”
Links
You can download a Bookmark of prayer points from the Advent JOY Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post ADVENT JOY # 2 -The Great Annunciation and Message: “For Nothing Will Be Impossible with the Lord” appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Greatness of God ~ Episode 230The greatness of God is all around us and we see it in the miracles of life.
God’s greatness is nothing we would dispute and a loving God grants favor to us. But what happens when we are overwhelmed or inundated with the holiday sales (yes, Cyber Monday and every day until Christmas is upon us!) How can we be disciples of the One True God and remain faithful in the glitz of the season? By pondering the Greatness of God and His love for us as we approach Christmas. I pray that the Lord is with you and you are filled with the love and peace of Christ.
Little children get it right when it comes to simple faith more times than not. Do you remember that early song you learned or maybe taught your children, “My God is so great, so big and so mighty there is nothing my God can not do?” If you have never heard this song I put a link in the show notes for this episode. (Here) This last stanza of the song goes like this, “My God is so great, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do, for you!”
This hits home for many young children and along with the catchy tune it sticks in their heads and hearts. It is at times like the holidays that we see the true meaning and share it without family and friends. It is a time to share what we have whether it is little or big (and my favorite gifts are the ones that money can not buy).
We see the greatness of God in big things – the awesomeness of nature or perhaps in works of charity but these tend to be things that we enjoy or we do for ourselves. The greatness of God is in giving of self. That is what God did for us – not only the world He created for us to enjoy but also in giving us our lives. Think about this for a minute. What was in it for Him?
We learn that God created because of love and love by its very nature creates. A simple sentence that packs a punch. Let me say it again. (repeated on air)
For me, love is the essence of the greatness of God. Make a list of what you believe is the essence and greatness of God. I so wish you could share your list then Isaiah 40.
Titus 2: 11 – 15 states – (read on air).
Isaiah 40:12-31 Read on your own, read on air: Isaiah 40:21-23 and Isaiah
Do we, even today with the Bible in virtually every translation a finger click away understand the ramifications and essence of the greatness of God? He is greater than anything we can even imagine. We’ve been told to imagine heaven, and whatever you come up with it is so much better than we can comprehend. I shared in past podcasts something my pastor says, “God I love you as you know yourself to be.” Unpack that! In other words, we can not comprehend the greatness of God which does not mean we should not try to understand so that we can better worship.
Isaiah goes on in verses 25-26 (Read on air.)
We are reminded that God has called us by name. Not only did he create the heavens and the earth the Almighty cared enough to create you and me. You are not an accident. Your life is not for nothing. Your hurts and your worries are not trivial. The Almighty Lord has heard your prayers and your cries. Because … “he is great in strength and mighty in power.”
Then Isaiah does on in verses 29-31 -(Read on air.)
The Lord will never weary even though we do, the Lord does not need to replenish because from Him all things originate. The greatness of God can be comprehended in this way, he is always there for us. He cares, He loves and He is the Almighty. We may think God is not approachable, my husband use to say that praying is bothering God. This is not true. We look up to the heavens but He is here, beside us always. Even when we don’t feel him, even when we feel let down, even when we feel we can not go on. God created and God cares for you and for me.
During this season in your life look at the greatness of God with joy and while trying to comprehend His vastness is not a prerequisite for salvation it does help us put our problems and our life in perspective. We are important yet many of the things we want and crave our not important in the grand scheme of things. Does this mean we don’t live our lives? No, of course, we do – but we live our lives with an eye to heaven and joy in our hearts.
The challenge this week is to look at the greatness of God and place your wants and needs before the Lord and discern what is important in your life. May God be blessed and rejoice today and always!
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We are continuing our series of Habits of Freedom: 5 Ignatian Tools for Calming Your Mind and Resting in the Lord by Christopher S. Collins, SJ.
God often calls us out of our usual to get our attention. In the scripture, we see him call people to the desert, recall the Israelites in the desert after leaving Egypt and Jesus there for 40 days before he begins his public ministry.
He also uses suffering to draw us closer to him. The desert, suffering – both are ways that we turn and rely more fully on God than in other times.
St. Ignatius teaches us to have a “holy indifference” in that no matter our circumstances, we choose to turn to God.
DiscernmentDiscernment is an ongoing and daily process. It asks us to look each day at where we have been, what we have done, and where we have encountered God. This is our Examen. A time to reflect on our day, with the help of the Holy Spirit and ask for help for the next day.
Allow your life to be disruptedFr. Collins makes this point about how we can be disposed to receive grace: “putting my self into unknown, uncertain, somewhat insecure circumstances has a way of disposing me to receive something greater that I could have expected.” (pg. 10)
It is good to allow our lives to be disrupted for, with and by God. “Allow ourselves to be displaced, decentered. To be opened up to something different. And then to allow the Holy Spirit to move, to act, to allow the Word of God to be spoken and heard by me, by us.” (pg.15)
This week, take some quiet time to think about a time when your life was disrupted. What happened? How was the situation resolved? Where was God in it? What did you learn?
Would you like to banish the lies that hold you back from freedom in Christ? Receive a free guide from me to help!
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DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
We pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this reflection. Magnificat, taken from Luke: 1, is the great hymn of praise that Mary prayed while visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. We trust that this reflection will help us all better understand that we are truly children of God, made in His image and likeness. We want to come together in God’s presence and proclaim that the Almighty has done great things for you and me and holy is His Name!
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at magnificat-ministry.net
The post Doing What is Expected Luke 17:7-10 By Deacon David Hockwalt appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Join me as Coach Herrmann and I discuss the role sports can play in character formation!
Coach Kelly Herrmann – now a wife, mom, grandma, health coach, author, and speaker was a fixture in sports at Franciscan University of Steubenville for decades. Having given up a full ride to play division one basketball, she attended FUS and was athletic director, head coach of women’s basketball and volleyball and intramural coordinator. She has refereed, umpired, announced games, coached little league soccer, run sports summer camps, and mentored other coaches. She’s a wealth of experience and knowledge and comes from a faithfully Catholic perspective.
I asked Coach:
- Are there specific character/faith lessons you look to teach through the season?
Some of the many character and faith lessons we can easily glean from faithfully coached and approached athletics are hard work, personal investment, dedicated commitment, right/honest/and charitable communication, servanthood, humility, unity, and modesty. Sports are a microcosm of life and so much can be taught through them because they really test the mettle of which a person is made.
- Can sports be used for character formation even with children?
Because of developmental differences associated with age, the lessons that can be taught are different, but sports are quite useful in character formation – even with children. Some of the many lessons first learned through sports by children are self-control, how to handle disappointment, delaying gratification and celebrating the giftedness and skills of others.
- If so, are the lessons different depending on the ages of the athletes – little league, middle school, college, etc.?
The many lessons learned through sports are the same in type but differ in degree and can really be of great benefit to athletes of any age, especially when coached from an authentic and consistent faith perspective. It’s essential that a coach know their own priorities as they coach and use the process of practice and play to reinforce the main priority of our lives – growth into the fullness of who we are called to be in Christ.
To connect with Coach Kelly Herrmann for speaking engagements, she can be reached at kherrmanniam@outlook.com.
The post The Role of Sports in Christian Character Formation appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Fr. Pat Crowley, SS.CC., MAS, is a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in the Western United States Province. Father Crowley is the Spiritual Advisor for the Magnificat North County San Diego Chapter. He is a retreat director and conference speaker who brings a holistic approach to the healing ministry. Since 1972 his healing services have moved Christians into a deeper faith experience in the healing love of Jesus Christ. Father is He resides at the Sacred Hearts House of Prayer, Hemet, CA., 92544
The post Spiritual Reflection 10 Oil Lamps By Fr. Pat Crowley 11.12.2022 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Miraculous Prayers ~ Episode 229Miraculous prayers are all around us, yet no one but the Lord knows what will be answered and what will not. In this podcast, Felice discusses the prayer that the Lord gave us as well as prayers that are always answered.
Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels. Visit the website to learn more about the books and products available and the sales.
There are some prayers that are always answered. Do we believe this? In a past episode 227- Miracles of Faith I shared how God uses miracles to increase our faith. However, it seems that at times our prayers go unanswered.
However, I believe the prayers that are always answered are the ones we ask for a deepening of faith. Don’t you think this prayer will be answered? “Lord I pray that my faith is increased and there is a deepening of love for you!”
Ephesians 2: 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God…
And what a gift! What better gift is there than salvation? To spend this life happily as a Christian knowing that the Lord has redeemed us and living our lives in a way that is pleasing to God—with the benefit of happiness.
A prayer that I pray to the Lord and He often grants is for more time. This prayer has been such a blessing especially when I am stressed or have too much on my to-do list. Recently I needed to attack very unsavory plans that I had put off for months. One was updating a will and our final cemetery preparations. Yes, eww! No one wants to think about death but as Christians, we should consider the end and our eternal rest with God.
What miracles have happened in your life? We all have them. I’d ask you to stop this recording and make a list of miracles if you can. If not, do this later. Here is a short list of some of the miracles in my life.
- I’ve witnessed the healing of illness.
- I’ve witnessed the healing of chronic issues.
- I’ve avoided car accidents (multiple times).
- The Lord saved me from a bad relationship in my younger years.
- The miracle of healthy births to five children and eight miraculous grandchildren.
And I could go on and on and on. As you listened to this list did you recall miracles in your life? When we pray we give glory to God, but God also blesses us in remarkable ways. In the Lord’s Prayer, given to us by Jesus we read in Matthew 6 so many gems that are hidden in God’s Word. If you have ever wanted a short, quick list of what we are to do according to God’s will and God’s word, read all of Matthew 6 – the synopsis for this would be
- Give to the needy
- Prayer
- Fasting
- Treasures in Heaven
- Not to worry
I believe prayer is essential for our souls, to keep us on the right path and to be united to the will of God – as I shared in the podcast on the other podcast on miracles, the act of prayer, especially for something we really want is a lesson in patience and fortitude. Patience in that God may or may not answer our prayer – or not yet – and in fortitude to keep praying without ceasing and maybe in the process our hearts will change and be united with God’s.
Jesus himself taught us how to pray in what we call the Lord’s prayer – in Matthew 6:9-14 [Read on Air.]
Before I read this to you I’d like to challenge you to pray it yourself – most of you have a version you pray, meditate on the words, and take them to heart. The Lord said…
- We learn the awesomeness of the name of God – Hallowed be your name!
- We learn the miracle of true piety
- We learn to unite our will to God’s will
- We learn to unite our will to God’s will
- God knows our prayers before we ask
- The Lord will provide for our needs
- We are to forgive others
- We are to pray to be delivered from temptation
- We are to pray to be delivered from the evil one
- If we do not forgive the sins done against us – we are praying that our heavenly Father will not forgive yours!
This is SO important and one that is often forgotten in prayer – we must forgive it is imperative and I’ve created several podcasts on the topic.
The Lord’s prayer is truly a miraculous prayer and one we always pray in Church, but I pray this prayer daily. It reminds me that my first obligation is to God and not self.
Another important point concerning prayer is in Matthew 6:5-7 but before the Lord gave us His prayer…[Read on Air.]
Interesting – we are to pray but not so we can boast about how great we are… I believe that works go hand in hand with faith. But works by themselves are hollow. I think that at many services instead of prayer it becomes a social hour. I am all for socializing but before the service – outside and after the service – outside! Last week my husband and I were early because he had foot surgery and he needed to get into the church before it got crowded so he didn’t have to hurry. The people behind us were so loud and talking about making spaghetti and meatballs, and all kinds of things. I had a hard time focusing and praying to the Lord! I love time to pray before the Mass begins. We need to be careful of those around us.
Many times, our prayers take fasting. This is for us, not for the Lord…but it takes our eyes off of our temporal needs and places them squarely on the prayers and on our Lord. Matthew 6 addresses this as well.
Concerning Fasting – And with fasting, we are to… (Matthew 6:16-18) Read on air.
Fasting is important but I will admit this is very hard to do – when I was younger I tried to pray with bread and water one day a week, then I increased it to two days! It was very difficult. I still try to do this on occasion, and I try to abstain from meat on Friday – especially during the Lenten season. It is a way to keep our focus on God.
The miraculous prayer that will be answered today is for the Lord to give you more faith and to give you a greater love for Him! That is your challenge this week, to say the Lord’s prayer daily and to pray for additional faith!
The post Miraculous Prayers appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
NormalWe want our life to go back to normal. And what exactly does normal mean? I think, instead, let’s consider grounding ourselves in Christ. When we are with him, life will be on a more even keel. When we begin with him, Jesus helps us get through life.
A SeriesThe next few episodes will be focused on discussing the book, Habits of Freedom: 5 Ignatian Tools for Clearing your Mind and Resting Daily in the Lord by Fr. Christopher J. Collins, SJ.
The book is short and each chapter gives you a way to pray and process life from Ignatian prayer. There are prayer prompts and scripture to guide you as you develop your own prayer practice.
IntroductionThere are 14 Rules for Discernment from St. Ignatius; this book reviews the first 7 and then uses them throughout the text.
Here is a brief summary: (I explain more in the podcast)
- When a person is moving away from God, meaning they are in sin, there is a sting of conscience.
- A person who is moving toward or is with God, the enemy tries to unsettle the person. Here though, the Good Spirit gives consolation.
- Consolation is when we feel the love of God, and have an increase in faith, hope and love..
- Desolation is a feeling of being low, unhappiness, separated from God
- When a person is in desolation, no change should be made; stick to your plan.
- When a person is stuck in desolation, go against your natural inclination, don’t give in to the enemy.
- Be patient; consolation will return. (from Collins, xi-xii)
Interested in the guide? Click here.
If you make a purchase via a link on this page, I may receive a small commission. There will be no added cost to you. Thank you!
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Jesus says, “Come follow, me!“ But to where, how and to what? What do I have to do, what do I have to change to leave everything behind to follow Jesus? These questions are contemplated by Mary as she shares parables and practical applications of life, then and now, in ways the devil tempts us and what we must do to resist. Listening to insights of Jesus helps us to give our ‘yes’ with the definitive response, “I have decided to follow Jesus!
This podcast is provided for you by Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women. We pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this podcast.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post I’m Going to Follow Jesus By Mary Wilson 11.10.22 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Lessons from Zechariah, Elizabeth, and Gabriel
Don’t Give Up Hope – God Hears & God Answers: Lessons from Zechariah, Elizabeth, and GabrielAre you waiting for an answer to prayer or are about to give up hope? Join us today as Zechariah, Elizabeth and Gabriel teach us this lesson: Don’t give up hope – God hears & God answers prayer.
Advent JOYWelcome to the WRAP Yourself in JOY Podcast Season 2 – Advent JOY. It is based on my book The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The celebration of ADVENT often surprises me because it comes so quickly. How about you? It was just fall, then thanksgiving, and then within a week its Advent. So let’s prepare our thinking—our mind and heart with plenty of time to find the JOY of Advent this year.
Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming.” When you hear the word “Advent,” you may think that it refers to the four-week season before Christmas that focuses on the coming of the birth of Jesus Christ. IT DOES! But the season of Advent is also meant for us to focus our attention on the present coming of Jesus in our own lives and on increasing our desire for His presence every day. So thanks for joining me on this Advent journey as together we reflect on the Scriptures that celebrate the joyful longing for our Savior and ask for more of his presence in our lives.
The People, Prayers and EventsIn this podcast, we will discover the people, prayers, and events so important to Jesus’ first coming. You will meet Zechariah, Elizabeth, the blessed Virgin Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, the Angels, the Shepherds, Simeon, Anna, and the Magi. It’s as if we will travel with them and partake in the most meaningful events in their lives. We will find three pairs of events related to Jesus’ coming, including two annunciations, two births and two circumcisions. Plus, we will pray the four great prayers of the Church, called canticles: Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1: 46-55), Zechariah’s Benedictus (Luke 1:67-79), the Angels’ Gloria (Luke 2:14) and Simeon’s Nunc Dimittis (Luke 2:29-32). Our Joyful journey will take us back over 2000 years to some amazing places. Through the Word of God, Jesus wants us to meet His family and friends and the Holy Spirit will be our guide.
The First of Two AnnunciationsFor 430 years prior to the birth of Jesus Christ, God had stopped speaking to His people because they had stopped listening to His prophets. Fast forward 430 years and we will drop in on the “first annunciation.” The term “annunciation” in Latin means announcement. When God began speaking again, He sent announcements through His most important heavenly messenger – the Archangel Gabriel. In Luke 1, we read that the first announcement came to Zechariah. He and his wife Elizabeth served God, trusted him for everything, while they waited and prayed for children which overtime seemed more impossible (Luke 1: 5-7).
In Luke 1: 8-25, we read that while Zechariah was a priest on duty in the temple, he drew his assignment, by casting lots, to offer incense in the sanctuary of the Lord. Suddenly, Gabriel appeared and said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. 14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord… 17 With the spirit and power of Elijah he will go before him, to turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
But Zechariah just couldn’t believe it and said to the angel, 18 “How will I know that this is so? For I am an old man, and my wife is [advanced] getting on in years.” 19 The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20But now, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time, you will become mute, unable to speak, until the day these things occur… 24After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived…” NRSVCE
Gabriel, The Might of God and No Puny AngelDoes Gabriel sound harsh to you? We have to consider the circumstances: the GREAT Archangel Gabriel had been sent by God to Zechariah. But he responded with “It’s too late. I’m old and my wife is really OLD.” We get the picture—his faith was still strong but he was looking at the circumstances. His wife Elizabeth had passed her time for having children and he was too old too (i.e. both were likely over 50 years old). O poor Zechariah—the Archangel Gabriel just couldn’t take his unbelief. With what seemed like one sweep of his finger, he muted Zechariah for the next 9 months.
Gabriel is no puny angel – “Gabriel” in New Testament Greek means “the Might of God.” In an almost humorous way Gabriel used his might to teach Zechariah an important principle. Since Zechariah’s name means, “the Lord remembers,” Zechariah would have a nine-month “silent retreat” to never to forget “the Lord remembers.” There may be many possible reasons why Zechariah could not believe Gabriel, including the circumstances or his mental exhaustion from praying so long. Even the presence of a mighty angel didn’t help Zechariah believe.
Personal ReflectionI hope after listening to the podcast, you will reflect on the powerful message to Zechariah and Elizabeth and to us in the first part of Luke 1: God hears. God answers. Don’t give up on God.
Have you ever prayed for something so long that you gave up? Have you ever received more than you expected – just as you were about to give up? St. Jerome wrote about Zechariah: “Your prayer is heard…that is to say you are given more than you asked for. You prayed for the salvation of the people and you have been given the Precursor” [John the Baptist] (Souvay, 1910, The Catholic Encyclopedia – Zacharias). You see while Zechariah was praying and waiting and giving up on prayer all those years, he did not know that God was preparing Joseph and Mary and so, he had to wait just a little longer.
Prayer PointsConsider these prayer points because Jesus wants to share His joy while you wait for His answers:
(a) Ask Jesus for a new and fresh prayer encounter with Him. Ask for new joy and to experience His presence while you look for everyday miracles.
(b) Take Time. Make a point to take some quiet time every day to listen to the Lord, read LUKE 1 and stay connected to the joy of the Lord
(c) Converse. Share with Jesus what you are waiting for. Then keep an open attitude to receive heavenly surprises JOY. (For example, you could pray: Jesus, I have given up on… Please give me new insight. Show me the little places where I see your hand at work.)
(d) Start an ADVENT PRAYER Journal. Why not record your prayer and conversation with Jesus this Advent? You may be surprised at the transformation to JOY you receive and will want to record during Advent.
(e) Thank God. Let the Lord know that you trust your life and circumstances to Him and Thank Him. For example, Dear Jesus, thank you for the beautiful example of Zechariah and Elizabeth. They waited and You answered. Thank you for the joy of Advent and your anticipated coming to earth. Thank you for loving me and remembering the important things in my life, even when I think you have forgotten me. Nothing is too difficult for you. I give you my doubts, disappointments and lack of trust. Help me to pray always and never give up (Matthew 18: 1). Help me to take the time to hear you speak in your Word. Come into my heart even deeper. Jesus, I trust in You. In the Name of the Father, Son & Holy Spirit. Amen
LinksYou can download a Bookmark of prayer points from the Advent JOY Podcast #1 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Click here to find the book: The Joy of Advent: Journey with the People, Events and Prayers at the First Coming of Jesus Christ.
The post Advent JOY #1: Don’t Give Up Hope – God Hears & God Answers appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa was born in Colli de Tronto, Italy. He was ordained a Franciscan Capuchin priest in 1958. In 1980, Fr. Cantalamessa was appointed by Pope John Paul II as preacher to the Papal household in the capacity he still serves. His official duties include preaching retreats to Pope Benedict 16th, Pope Francis, members of the Papal household and Vatican officials. He was a member of the International Theological Commission from 1975-81. In 1979, he resigned his full-time preacher of the Gospel and has written several books. He is the considered one of the greatest spiritual educators of our time. Fr. Cantalamessa was proclaimed Bishop by Pope Francis in November, 2020.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post Testimony of Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa Oct. 2008 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Meet Coach Kelly Herrmann – Faith Formation in Athletics
Today, I’m joined by Kelly who I’ve known for about 30 years. She’s coached, refereed, umpired for decades in sports of all types and is now a wife, mother, grandmother, and health coach, author and speaker. Kelly has a passion for forming athletes in faith and spirituality and really integrating the two. She grew up on a dairy farm in Michigan and played basketball in the upstairs of their hay barn through the winter. She was living the student athlete life, doing the scorebook, coaching junior high leagues, announcing games even in high school and was truly involved in every aspect of sports year-round.
Kelly gave up a full ride to play division one sports to attend Franciscan University of Steubenville back in the 1980s for the sake of being in a place of faith formation. She had three older siblings who attended FUS and having visited many times. She had visited a lot and felt a certain fulfillment at the university in the people, the atmosphere, and the faith culture. Even though early on she had protested coming to Franciscan, she realized it was the place where she could become more of who the Lord created her to be. While it was difficult to give up the dream of being a college basketball player, Kelly got deeply involved in intramurals and never regretted making that choice.
Focusing on doing rather than being is a trap we can all fall into but keeping the Lord the priority is essential to developing a faithfully Catholic athletic environment. What is the most important thing? Is winning everything? No. What we want to be saying to our kids is “how was your game?” How did you do? How did you play?”. We play to win because the virtue of magnanimity calls us to do our very best! God wants us to strive and do our best, but that doesn’t always result in winning. The process of day-to-day dedication and growth is the real core.
We discuss forming faith through athletics – the topic addressed in a chapter Kelly authored in the book Coach Them Well with St. Mary’s Press.
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Worship and Thanksgiving ~ Episode 228What do worship and thanksgiving mean to you? Your definition may be similar to many Christians, yet where is the challenge? The challenge is living lives that show that we worship the One True God and, in that way, our faith is permeated in all that we do. Listen to the challenge this week, by your host, Felice Gerwitz.
Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, and the wonderful books and products such as A Few Minutes with God.
As we discuss worship and thanksgiving today remember that the key to everything we do is to make it workable for us. What works for me may not work for you and that is important. I’ve read blogs over the years that list things that are so not doable in my life. This is why I try to simplify things for myself and for you! Which reminds me.
Have you heard the saying, “Do as I say, not as I do?” At times when I record podcasts, I feel a nudge from the Lord with the thought, “Are you living your life in the way you are challenging your listeners to live theirs’s?” Unfortunately, the answer is not always, “Yes!” Yet, podcasting on topics that point to the Lord also challenges me as well.
As we head into the months of Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations the theme of thanksgiving resounds in my mind. I ask myself the following questions:
- How am I worshipping God daily?
- How am I giving Him all the praise and thanks He deserves?
- How am I living my Christian life to the fullest?
- Am I allowing myself to be used by the Lord (those gentle nudges).
- Am I giving myself time to pray?
Giving ourselves time is the biggest obstacle in our life, so in this busy season, we need to cut ourselves some slack while placing a focus on the most important things. What have you learned from past mistakes and how are you leading a life that does not parallel the old? Think about this and consider ways you over-commit.
Years ago I found that if I quit one ministry or volunteer position to make more time for my family, I soon found I was volunteering for another position somewhere else that might not take as much time, or perhaps was for a better cause. This is great to give in some type of ministry but look at your life, your family, and your time commitment. Be sure you are not sacrificing your family.
Worship is an important facet of giving praise to the Lord. If you have a smartphone it is worthwhile to set up a praise and worship album. At one time I had about five songs and my kids would tease me because I had so few, yet these songs spoke to me. They filled my heart with love for the Lord. Today I have a mix of faster-paced songs with some contemplative tunes. I have new favorites depending on what is going on in my life. I shared with you the song “The Motions,” by Matthew West in a previous podcast and for the longest time that was my song, it was an important one to me because I felt like I was becoming complacent, and I wanted to change. Then my song was, “Joy,” by For King and Country. I wanted to be sure I was choosing Joy, and that was my focus. My next favorite was “He Reigns,” by Newsboys. Of course, I love many other gospel hymns and I go to a traditional church where we often sing songs like “Amazing Grace.” I believe you can tell your spiritual mood by looking at the songs you like to play frequently.
Take time to do this, and create a song playlist. What songs speak to you and what songs lead you into worship? Currently, my new favorite is “Blessed Be Your Name.” It makes me consider God’s precious Name and how we should worship Him not only in song but in our lives.
Music is a huge part of helping to set the mood which is why many churches begin with praise and worship. This opens our hearts to the Word of God spoken to teach us and challenge us. If you do not have a playlist make one, either on your phone or on a computer. It is not that difficult to do, and if you do not know how, ask someone to help.
I’m not sure who began the saying when we sing we pray twice. But I believe there is truth to those words. Singing allows us to rejoice and music lowers our inhibitions in a good way and the roadblocks we often put up keeping the Lord out. We can use music in a way that enhances our prayer time and allows the deeper meaning of the words to speak to us in a way that just saying or even reading the words can accomplish. God knew what he was doing when he created music!
I believe that worship music allows us to live our lives more fully. The scriptures are filled with references to music, we read in 1 Chronicles 6:31 “there are the men David put in charge of the music in the house of the Lord after the ark came to rest there.” And we know the Psalm is a sacred song or poem used in worship such as the book of Psalms.
In what ways do you like to worship? Think about this and then when you do, make a point to make this part of your life. Worship can be serious and there is a time for this, but it can also be lighthearted. I think laughter is great and I believe with all of my heart that the Lord has a sense of humor. If He is truly Lord of Lords and created all things he created humor (the good kind) as well. Remember anything good can be perverted by the evil one.
I think one of the reasons I like music that I play in the car is because it fits my lifestyle when I am on the go. It puts me in a good frame of mind when I get to my destination. We use the tools at our disposal to make things work for us! In this way, we can more easily add worship and thanksgiving into our lives, daily.
The challenge for you is to look for a way to implement worship and thanksgiving not only during the holiday season but daily in your own life.
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Do you pray for yourself?I have met many people who don’t think to pray for themselves. Some think it is selfish; others, maybe a bit burdensome to God, who already has enough to concern himself with. But I think we are to pray for ourselves.
Jesus prayed for HimselfIn scripture, we see many times Jesus goes off either before the day or at the end, certainly in preparation for big decisions, by himself to spend time with the Father.
In Mathew 26:39, Mark 14:36 and Luke 22:42 we see him in the Garden of Gethsemane praying very specifically for his needs as he faces the cross.
It is in the Gospel of John that we hear Jesus pray for himself,
When Jesus had said this, he raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that he may give eternal life to all you gave him. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began. John 17:1-5
Jesus prays for glory, so the Father is glorified. And that is key! When you pray for yourself, do it with the heart and mind that says you are at the service of the will of God. You want to glorify God, not have your prayers answered out of selfishness. This week, pray for yourself. Go to God with all that is in your soul and allow him to give you whatever you need. Strength, healing, comfort, peace, to know that you are loved – ask in humility and trust.If you are interested in being better prepared for Mass each Sunday, join us to discuss the readings in the Live Not Lukewarm Community.The post Pray for Yourself appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team.
We pray that today may be a special day in your life as you experience the presence of Jesus Christ among us through this reflection. Magnificat, taken from Luke: 1, is the great hymn of praise that Mary prayed while visiting her cousin, Elizabeth. We trust that this reflection will help us all better understand that we are truly children of God, made in His image and likeness. We want to come together in God’s presence and proclaim that the Almighty has done great things for you and me and holy is His Name!
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post Mustard Seed & Yeast Lk.13:18-21 By Deacon David Hockwalt appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Spiritual conversion changed Kathleen Beckman’s life. The more successful and materialistic she became the more she pushed God out of her life. Wife for 47 years, mother of two grown sons, medical assistant for 11 years and business owner with her husband since 1984. Kathleen was in for a surprise she did not realize her God was a jealous God and He managed to get her attention in 1989. The merciful love of the Savior chattered my comfortable worldly existence by allowing the cross to touch my family and He would become the Lord of my life. Since 1989 her life dramatically changed. Kathleen became a daily communicant, Coordinator of the Orange County Magnificat Chapter, and a lady of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem. Kathleen shared that suffering compelled me to pray, contemplation led me to worship, praise, and service. I found solace in Holy Mother Church. You will hear about the graces that led to her conversion.
For twenty-five years, and in thirteen countries, Kathleen Beckman has served in the Church’s ministry of evangelization through Catholic radio and television, writing, speaking and as a certified Retreat Director. Sophia Institute Press has published her four best-selling books including, “Praying for Priests”, “God’s Healing Mercy”, “When Women Pray” and the newest, “A Family Guide to Spiritual Warfare”.
At the invitation of the clergy, Kathleen has served in the Church’s ministry of exorcism and deliverance for sixteen years. She was on faculty for the Pope Leo XIII Institute at Mundelein Seminary for six years. She presently serves as the lay administrator of the exorcism and deliverance ministry and is a member of the exorcist’s team. In 2013, with encouragement from the Vatican’s Congregation for the Clergy, Kathleen co-founded the “Foundation of Prayer for Priests” a ministry of intercessory prayer for the holiness and protection of clergy.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post Magnificat Testimony of Kathleen Beckman 2007 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation, what we as Catholics commonly refer to as Confession, is a great and powerful occasion for grace and yet sometimes we hesitate to go out of fear, shame, and embarrassment. Margaret discusses the sacrament with Fr. David in his role as a priest of over 55 years.
Confession is a beautiful gift of healing that brings about an immediate change. Because we have an ongoing relationship with the Lord, we have immediate access to healing and forgiveness right away by turning to the Lord in repentance, even before we go to the sacrament of confession. This sacrament has a bigger dimension to it because we are in relationship with ourselves, the Lord, and others. Confession is an occasion of personal healing, forgiveness, transformation, and mercy. It makes amends and restores us to right relationship with ourselves and the community because we don’t just sin against ourselves, but others, as well. We receive from the Lord through the power of His death and resurrection, healing, mercy, and compassion.
Question: Does the priest think poorly of us when we confess our sins to him?
Answer: Priests go to confession themselves and have to deal with the same human experience of sinfulness, guilt, and shame. They understand that sense of apprehension.
Question: How is it for you, Fr. David, as a priest? Do you think those confessing their sins are horrible?
Answer: No. As priests we are to put people at ease and create a context of mercy. The priest is not the judge, he is the pastor. God is the judge, forgiver, and healer. As priests, we are always to help people get over their fears, and hesitation. The priest should be able to help you set that aside and open to the healing mercy of God. If priests don’t do so they are violating who they are as ministers.
Question: What is the seal of confession?
Answer: The priest, under no condition, can reveal what is shared in confession and that is absolute. He can’t even say anything to that person themselves about what he confessed without getting his permission.
Question: When you see the penitent again do you think about their sins?
Answer: There is often a divine grace of forgetfulness so that priests many times don’t even remember what was told to them.
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Miracles of Faith ~ Episode 227What miracles of faith have you considered at length? Do you recall various scripture verses that discuss God’s healing power? Or the ability of Jesus not only to heal the physical body but more importantly the spiritual, the soul. In this podcast, join Felice Gerwitz and the challenge of the week to delve into the mystery and miracles that will change your life.
Thanks to our sponsor Media Angels to find out more information visit the website here.
Gosh, where do I begin? There have been so many miracles in my own life that I could take hours recounting story after story of healing, answered prayers, and events that would strengthen your faith and have definitely strengthened mine. In a few minutes, I will share a few with you. But first, let’s address what miracles of faith mean to you.
Meaning – Miracles of FaithWhen we discuss miracles of faith it can mean many different things. The miracle of having faith to the more extreme. What do miracles of faith” mean to you, what comes to mind? Is it something spiritual; such as a deepening of faith or even a willingness to be open to faith such as a faith proclamation, (“Accepting Jesus as your personal Savior), or miraculous in the sense of healing?
I actually consider it to be both. Miracles of our faith happen when we least expect them and when we are open to seeing them in our daily life. Having a prayer journal that I’ve talked about before and a praise journal (even better) helps us to see with not only our eyes but with our hearts and give credit where it is due.
When I consider the miracle of my faith, it happened as a child, seeds planted by my parents, it floundered and then grew deeper when tested by fire. It could have withered and died but instead, it became stronger because I prayed the prayer of Peter, “Lord to who can we go?” But before I read Peter 6:60-69 it comes on the heels of the discourse Jesus gave when he told the twelve they must eat his flesh and blood – John 6:57-58- (Read on air.)
Can we truly say to the Lord, “Lord to who can we go? You have the words of eternal life – we have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.” If that is true and you can say those words you will definitely see miracles in your life and attribute them to faith in God.
We should no doubt in our minds that God is who he says He is – but what about when prayer does not appear to be answered? We are told we should be confident in our faith and pray, but when it seems to have no effect then what? Read all of Luke 18 but in the parable of the Just Judge Jesus took us to task (and I say us because the Scriptures are for each one of us, not just the people at the time!) Here is Luke 18:1-8 (Read on air)
Wow, if the judge would grant mercy how much more will God? God cares about our suffering but God wants us to persist in prayer. Does this mean He wants us to work for it? Not at all – it means the more we pray the more our hearts will change and our desires will become more closely aligned with his over time. He may lead us to pray in a different way or to see that His ways are the best. I did a podcast sometime back about prayer and one of the ways the Lord answers is Yes, No, or not right now. Sometimes the healing we crave is deeper down in layers that need to be healed before what we ask for can be achieved. It’s the big picture we don’t see.
A better way to understand is to think of this as a parent to a child. We know how kids can ask for things or demand things that are not good for them, the most obvious is being with friends who will steer them in the wrong direction, such as toward drugs. Our child may consider us cruel, and unjust or a “punishment” for keeping them apart. Yet, after time maybe many years later they may see the benefit of the punishment and thank you. The same for our Lord. What looks like the most wonderful thing may be wrong for our eternal soul.
We know we can ask anything of the Father yet the Lord teaches in John 5:19-24. (Read on air.)
I think this Scripture is one to ponder and it makes me consider how amazing and awe-inspiring is our God! God can do anything. The prayer, “Please Lord make me a billionaire.” can be answered immediately but what would that do to our eternal soul?
Miracles happen I believe to increase our faith. I prayed once as I heard a tornado very close to my home (those thankfully are rare in my area), and as I did I received a sense of peace and it passed my home without any damage. Recently I shared about how our area was impacted by Hurricane Ian, and every time we prayed through that seemingly never-ending storm, individually and as a group I felt a sense of peace (and we did share in the destruction to our home and surrounding property) but we were all safe.
If I had to select one miracle in my life that really astounded me to the healing of God it would be a young man we prayed for that was struggling in his life. He had left a life of sin and was making an effort to include young adults to minister to the homeless by buying food and distributing it while sharing the gospel message. He was a friend of my daughter’s and she was always so encouraged when a group of her friends did this. And as a parent, I was rejoicing that my prayer, “Please Lord, let her find good Christian friends,” in college was answered. Yet, he was in pain, and one time while at my home on a Friday or Saturday evening, he really looked uncomfortable and asked for some over-the-counter pain medication. I supplied some, but on a whim, I asked if my husband and I could pray for him. He agreed. About a week later he called and asked if he could come to our home. He shared a miracle that happened. Apparently, he had some torn ligaments in his shoulder and was waiting to have surgery at some point. He was given shots for the pain and it had worn off, which was evidenced by the pain he exhibited when he was at my home. Well, he said later after he left our home the pain was excruciating so much so that he asked a friend to drive him to the hospital. Of course, we were in shock! Our prayers caused pain – oh, no!! But he quickly explained that while in the hospital they gave him a warm blanket but basically said they could not do anything for him because they did not have his records on his last cortisone shot and they didn’t know if they could safely give him another and he had to go to his primary care physician. So he did it first thing Monday and they were puzzled at his pain level and took exrays – it showed that the ligament in his shoulder was regrowing and that was why he was in such pain! His shoulder had miraculously healed. We began praising and thanking God! Nothing like that has ever happened in my life since then! But wow – what a miracle and how much so that this young man went to his young adults’ group and witnessed to what God had done in His life.
Friends I was hesitant to ask him if I could pray for him – and afraid that he might reject my offer. Have you done that, asked people if they want you to pray and they say no? I am so happy that I listened to that prompting of the Holy Spirit!
This week the challenge is to see the ways you can be used by God to pray for others and to document the miracles of faith you see in your own life and in others!
Add your own miracles of faith here for us to read and rejoice in God with you!
The post Miracles of Faith appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Gratitude is an AnswerOften times we don’t think about our blessings and daily life as gifts, but they are. It’s not good luck or being in the right place at the right time. When we feel mired down in problems, turn to gratitude. Shift your focus.
Praying the Psalms
Here is a list of the Thanksgiving Psalms
- 18
- 30
- 32
- 34
- 40
- 65
- 66
- 67
- 75
- 92
- 107
- 116
- 118
- 124
- 136
- 138
Scripture
It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
to declare your steadfast love in the morning,
and your faithfulness by night,
to the music of the lute and the harp,
to the melody of the lyre.
For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work;
at the works of your hands I sing for joy. Psalm 92:2-5
St. Teresa of Avila
In all created things, discern the providence and wisdom of God and in all things, give Him thanks.
Keep a gratitude list or even better, share your gratitude each day with another person!
Pray the Our Lady of Good Help Novena with Marge Fenelon and me on Instagram beginning Nov 14. Sign up for my newsletter for more details.
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A Presbyterian with strong anti-Catholic convictions, her road to Catholicism led her through difficult struggles and trials before entering the Catholic Church in 1990, 4 years after her husband’s conversion.
Kimberly Hahn is married to Scott Hahn. She enjoys the speaking ministry with Scott, but family commitments take top priority with her. She earned an MA in Theology from Gordon Cromwell Theological Seminary.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
The post Testimony of Kimberly Hahn Oct 1996 appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
Self-forgiveness is highly important to mental health and spiritual growth. If we don’t have it, we can stay stymied and even spiral downwards in our relationships to ourselves, God, and others. Sometimes, we are hard on ourselves out of fear of failing even worse if we ‘let ourselves off the hook’. However, it has the opposite effect and leads us away from a healthy and holy future.
Sometimes, people are stuck because of a lack of self-worth. First, we need to receive the gift of forgiveness from God, our Father. By receiving that from the Lord, then we need to internalize that stance and the mind of Christ toward ourselves. Without this, we can stay blocked and stuck in our lives.
Many times, we can be shocked by how we fell. It can seem like we’re trying to hold ourselves to a higher standard, but it’s fundamentally a mindset of pride. We might be surprised by our behavior, but the Lord who is all-knowing is not surprised. It can be helpful to recall times of experiencing the Lord’s closeness prior to falling and recognizing that He foreknew that we were going to fail.
At its root unforgiveness toward ourselves changes our mode of operation to one of not being lovable and then we relate to others out of that mode – be it to the Lord, to ourselves, or to others. We tend to project our own estimation of ourselves onto the Lord and others. That can really skew our perception of others and put us in an impenetrable fortress of self-hatred. Rather than achieving the goal of holding ourselves to a higher standard, we can so thoroughly discourage ourselves that we don’t even want to engage with the Lord in a relationship. It can set us up for failure. When we open to the grace of the Lord and receive His forgiveness, we can gain spiritual freedom.
In Matthew 7:1 and again Luke 6, the Lord tells us not to judge. He doesn’t say not to judge others, but not to judge. Judging is beyond our wisdom and insight. We don’t understand what makes us tick the way the Lord does and He alone has the ability to do so rightly. Blessed Julian of Norwich said, “God sees sin as pain in us.” When we see sin as coming from pain, we are able to look at it, acknowledge it, repent of it, and receive the great gift of forgiveness.
The post The Importance of Self-Forgiveness appeared first on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network.
God First – Episode 226When was the last time you put God first? Is God in your first thought of the day? No? How about the last thought? The struggle is real especially when life is overwhelming and seems to get in the way. Join Felice Gerwitz as she shares how she puts God first and the way she accomplishes this daily.
Our wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12
An elderly friend once shared that as she grew older, her understanding and awareness of her sinfulness increased. This self-awareness should not be limited to age, but due to the nature of most of our lifestyles, this unfortunately is the norm.
If we take time to reflect we will all realize we fall short. Yes, it is difficult to admit but true. We all have shortcomings but the way we handle them is the difference between living a life for God or against Him because somewhere in the middle does not count. The Scriptures remind us that G0d will spew us out of his mouth! In fact Revelations, 3 verses 15-22 will give you so much to unpack. There are five main themes that we hear in entire sermons based on this scripture. First let me share it with you. (Read on air.)
Unpacking Revelations 3 -A Few Points
- Lukewarm faith
- Don’t need God – own ability
- Refined by fire
- Repent
- God knocking at the door
- Ability to hear God’s Word
Let me read the verses in Revelations 3:15-22 (Read on air.)
Lukewarm faith – going through the motions. There is a song that really resonated with me for some time, the song’s title is The Motions by Matthew West. This was a song that hit hard because one of the lines says: (read onair.)
Matthew West was quoted as saying “The song is about complacency and a desire to “break free from the average, ordinary, lukewarm Christian life” – and that is what we need to do, break free of complacency. The thought is there is always tomorrow to pray, to read the Bible to attend church. But the saying goes that today is the “first day” of the rest of your life. We should look at each day as an opportunity not only to grow closer to God but to ask the Lord how to best serve Him.
Is this true of you? Don’t need God – own ability. There is a popular saying, “we make our own luck,” and I think I have always hated that phrase because to me it means I don’t need God. Yes, we should work hard, strive to do the best we can, get up and get going and not wait for handouts. However, we need God in the same way that we need air to breathe. That too is a Christian song, you may know it by its title “Breathe” (The Air I Breathe), and the original author Marie Barnett didn’t even mean to sing the lyrics (as a song leader) but was led to sing it spontaneously in church one Sunday. *You can read here story here. It made it to a Vinyard’s album and later was recorded by many artists such as Michael W. Smith. The words go like this (read on air). (Lyrics here.) Without God we would not even have air to breathe, so all the glory and honor go to Him! (Read Onair.)
Refined by fire – Interesting the Scripture states – counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire so that you may be rich – we are refined by fire but usually, that is a painful process and if we do not learn anything from the pain we will suffer again and again. In order to be rich we must learn from this refinement and praise God in all things, even those hardships.
Repent – The obvious here is to ask the Lord for forgiveness, but I want to take it one step further… we stay away from deepening our relationship with the Lord and putting God first when we are in sin. Like Adam and Eve were afraid to show their faces to the Lord, because of their sinfulness and their lack of repentance at that point, so too we are afraid of the justification for our sins. For every sin, there must be a payment. And sin, unfortunately, affects us all not only the person in sin.
God knocking at the door – We have discussed this in many other podcasts and it calls to mind a photo I have of the Lord knocking at the door, but the handle is on my side. God is the Almighty and can do anything, but God wants our hearts only when we give it to Him willingly. Unbelievers will say that religion is forced and there are all these rules and hoops to jump through — however, God has given us free will for a reason and a choice to follow Him, to let Him, to put God first or not.
Ability to hear God’s Word – recently in a prayer ministry meeting a friend recounted a story and said over and over again, “But I told this person specifically…” and she said this more than one time. It is interesting that we can talk to people and they do not hear or comprehend what we say even when we think it is crystal clear. The same with God’s word. It is crystal clear if we have our minds and hearts open to putting Him first.
There is so much more to unpack in those few lines of Scripture and I urge you and challenge you this week to meditate upon the words and make a plan, today to put God first in your life and to get yourself out of complacency and fire for the Lord, the Creator of Heaven and Earth! May God bless us today and always.
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Magnificat Testimony of Johnette Benkovic Williams 2005
What does it mean to be a Catholic woman in today’s world, to Johnette the answer is clear, when we look to the mission of the Catholic woman we are called to emulate the spiritual motherhood of Mary. After years of being a non-practicing Catholic, Johnette experienced a deep conversion back to her Catholic faith in 1981 and discerned a call to share the gospel message through the media. Founder of Living His Life Abundantly International and Executive Producer of Women of Grace Live, Johnette has been a consistent presence in Catholic radio since 1987 and Catholic television since 1988.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-ministry.org
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New Book about Our Blessed MotherI have always known we have a generous and loving Mother in Heaven. But Mary also comes to people here on earth to guide and give a message of hope or words of exhortation when needed. In 1859, this is what happened in Door County, Wisconsin to a girl named Adele Brise.
Marge Steinhage Fenelon has written America’s Mary: The Story of Our Lady of Good Help to tell the story of this apparition of Mary to Adele and calls it America’s best-kept secret. Why? Because this is the only recognized and approved apparition to take place in America.
How does the message help us today?Mary told Adele to gather and teach the children in this wild country. She was referring to the land as being wild, but today, we live in a society and culture that is wild. This is a reminder to us that we need to evangelize and catechize. This story tells us that we have work to do and with Mary’s help, it can be accomplished!
When did interest in this apparition begin in our times?In 2010, Bishop David L. Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin, approved this apparition on December 8. There is a copy of this in the book. He also wrote the prayer below.
O Dear Lady of Good Help, you revealed yourself as the Queen of Heaven to your servant Adele. You gave her a mission to pray for the conversion of sinners, to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to others, and to prepare the children for the reception of the sacraments. I trust that as you called Adele to holiness, you are calling me, in my station in life, to live a holy life, devoted to Jesus Christ with the help of your maternal love. I bring before you now my worries and anxieties. I abandon my attachments to them and place them at your feet. I ask you to hear the deepest longings of my heart as I pray most earnestly for (your intention). Dear Lady, you told Adele and you say to all of us, “Do not be afraid; I will help you.” Help me now as I place this intention with complete confidence and trust. Amen.Our Father…, Hail Mary…, Glory Be… Our Lady of Good Help, pray for us.
For the next 9 days, use the prayer above along with the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be as a novena for your most difficult intentions. I know I will be praying it!
The book is available from Our Sunday Visitor and on Amazon. (If you purchase on Amazon, I receive a small tip.) You can follow Marge on Facebook and Instagram and be sure to check out her website!
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Most people don’t receive formation in prayer. We don’t get taught how to pray and so it can be difficult to pray unless it is a structured activity. So, we can tend to look to fill the time with formal prayers and journaling. What is the difference between prayers and prayer?
Prayer isn’t just ‘caught’ it needs to be ‘taught’. Prayer is based on the Lord’s grace and so it is a gift. People can have a difficulty with a prayer time because we’re used to projects and don’t know how to sit still. We can default to prayers someone else made. Prayer is our relationship with the Lord and communicating heart to Heart with Him.
How do we do that? A good place to start is simply being available to the Lord. We don’t have to generate holy feelings or thoughts. Simply being present to He who is present to us. Being available means being ready and not preoccupied with other things. It’s simply holding space for the Lord.
From there, we surrender our ideas and agendas, understanding the Lord wants prayer more than we do because He longs for relationship with us. What does surrender mean? It’s giving up our plans and our preconceived ideas of what needs to happen. He is the initiator and is all-wise and all-loving.
In His presence, we converse with Him which entails sharing with Him and listening to Him. He can speak to our hearts by bringing certain thoughts and senses to us. He is alive and well and is a good communicator! We can ask Him for what He wants us to know and to lead us. This communion leads us to union with Him.
Practically, that can look like using the Scripture or spiritual reading as jumping off points if we stop at the points where we find our spirit particularly touched and open ourselves to more of His work of grace in those areas.
So, we start by being available to the Lord, surrendering our agendas, and then moving from the words of prayers into being attentive to grace when our hearts are moved by particular notions, concepts, and images.
Ephesians 3:14 and following.
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Evil Tactic – Combatting Evil ~ Episode 225What is an evil tactic? It is something employed by the evil one to take souls to hell. Harsh? Maybe. But, this is something that few of us want to talk about or consider. In this podcast, Felice will explore the tactics used and how to prevent being led to the dark side.
Visit this month’s wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12
Few people realize the greatest tool of evil is to convince people that evil does not exist. Everything is fine, it’s good, there is nothing to worry about. Everyone gets a free pass to go to heaven. Don’t worry, proclaim God once, claim Him and go on and live your life in whatever way you see fit. I realize we all come from different faith walks. Some are non-denominational and others adhere to a specific denomination. Some teach it is faith alone and others that it is faith and works.
In the previous podcast, I cited James 2:14-26, Faith without works is dead. With this thought, we must look at the ways that evil sets to destroy not only others but specifically our lives.
I see evil glorified everywhere I look during the month of October, whether I am in the grocery store or at a restaurant. Some people celebrate fall with leaves and such, but many, enjoy what they believe is making light of darkness with evil-looking and scary decorations. While spoofs are fine, being surrounded by evil-looking decorations is not something I enjoy. Walking into a hair salon while hearing an evil cackling voice is not my idea of fun, and believe me, I soon went to another hair salon.
Here is a short list of things that are considered evil tactics:
- Not believing evil or satan exists. John 8:44 (read)
- Fearfulness (in a minute I’ll read from Matthew 10 which helps us to combat fear)
- Deception and lies, Confusion, Twisting of words – reproductive freedom, no big deal, not for us to judge
- Division – because when we are divided we are weak. John 17:20-24 (read)
- Diversion – an overload of information, social media, anxiety, and distractions of everyday life Matt 10:26-32 (read)
- Discouragement and depression – personal setbacks, always wanting more, if “this” happens, I’ll be happy. (humility)
There is so much packed into these verses, first, we have nothing to fear, the next is that we should not fear the body because what is most important is our soul, and the only person to fear is what can destroy us -that is giving into evil tactics and ultimately hell. Then there is the wonderful verse about the Father’s intimate knowledge about each one of us because he even knows the number of hair on our heads. We have value to God, my friends more than we know! We must also acknowledge God, we must not be afraid of our Christian faith or deny him unless we want to be denied before the Father in heaven. Powerful words!
- Humility – the key to discouragement and depression is humility. Realizing we can do nothing without God. This is not a way to push off blame or alleviate our guilt, it is a way however to realize that when we do things under our own steam we are setting up ourselves for failure. Have you ever wondered when your life falls apart, and you can’t seem to handle anymore that you are “doing” it yourself and without God? Sure, we are all gifted in some way, but those gifts should be attributed to the Almighty.
In our humility we ask the Lord for help, to come into our lives in a deeper way (I know – I must sound like I repeat myself over and over) but it is a truth that when we grow closer to God we find things that are so important in our life or that we think are important fall way. All the people who suffer loss realize in the end that these are things they can not take with them when they die. That is why we are taught to look to the end, to look at our lives and when we do, when we grow closer to God we can see the areas where we have sinned.
Evil tactics are lost on those who are grounded, who surround themselves with like-minded Christians, and who immerse themselves in all that is good and holy, beginning with your relationship with Christ and the Scriptures. This week make a list of the evil tactics aimed at you and work at ways (with God, Scripture, and prayer) that you can combat the evils.
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Decisions to be madeHow often do we wonder, is this what I should do? What will be the best decision? We think and pray and ask a few or twenty-five, people, what they think, instead of going to the Holy Spirit. Or maybe you do go to the Holy Spirit but still, ask questions.
Is there a way to figure it out?Turn to prayer and wait. Ask for the answer. Try not to tell God what you’d like to have happen. And then wait with hopeful expectation. When you have peace, which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, you will know you have your decision. Go with it.
Scripture
Romans 8:26a “The Spirit helps us in our weakness”
Jesus call the Spirit…The Paraclete, the one who is called to one’s side.” I think we can stand strong, knowing the Holy Spirit is beside us. Call on him and he will come.
This week, before you make any important decision, take it to prayer.
Do you need a speaker for your ministry or parish event? I’d be honored to work with you!
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Romans 14:7 says that we don’t live or die for ourselves, whether we live or die we are the Lord’s. The Scriptures dismantle the illusion that life is our own. The language can be used, “have you accepted God into your life” and yet it isn’t my life. When we zoom out and really look at the whole person, we realize this is God’s life we participate in. He is the initiator and orchestrator. Keeping in mind that this life is the Lord’s gives us the proper perspective.
We can come up with our own plans and ask the Lord to bless them or we can submit ourselves to Him surrendering to His activity within us and His leading. When we are baptized in Him, we are baptized into His life. This is all a process of deeper conversion and transformation. Fundamentally, we can seek a position of control, or surrender to the Lord’s omnipotence and give ourselves over to His will.
Fr. David shares about how he experienced the Lord telling him he was running his own life and asked him to let the Lord Himself run his life. The repentance and conversion thus led Fr. David to drastically changed his life.
When we realize this is really the Lord’s life in which we participate it really calls us on beyond not doing the things on the naughty list to an ever-deeper experience of surrender. In this way, we radically realize there is always more of God, deeper union into which we are called, and we no longer have the tendency to evaluate ourselves as better than our neighbor because we aren’t drinking, having illicit relationships, acting out of anger, and the like. Rather, we are continually called on to continual growth in intimacy with the Lord. This keeps life fresh because there is always more and He makes all things new.
Living as though the Lord is in our lives rather than us in His life, we can tend to compartmentalize spirituality. Recognizing that we are in God’s life disposes us to incarnate Him to the world.
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Spiritual Light – Episode 224Does your spiritual light shine through to others so that there is no doubt you are a Christian? Join Felice Gerwitz as she explores how we can point people to the light that is goodness and truth which is only found in Christ.
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Darkness is dispelled by the light of Christ in our lives and in the lives of others. We are reminded of this in John 1:5 “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Light refers to God and darkness to the enemy. We see proof of this darkness all around us but especially when it comes to confusion.
Without being specific we all know there is confusion in this world. We hear it and we are amazed that no one seems to push back. The best way we can push back is by increasing our dedication to the Lord. Throughout history, we are aware of times of persecution. We’ve seen evidence of the persecution today. Innocent people are being harassed and fear is the one factor that controls them better than anything else.
Perfect Love Casts Our Fear – 1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love.
There is no room for fear if we trust the Lord. Recently, as I mentioned in a previous podcast, we faced a category 4 hurricane. The predictions had it passing close by but no one predicted until it was too late to leave how close it would pass. The eye itself we heard was 30 miles wide. We looked at storm and weather maps before we lost power and what they showed was devastating. The eye was so, so close and the side of the storm that hit us was the side with the most winds. Yes, we have Flood Insurance we have Home Insurance and we even have Life Insurance, but all of those protections don’t keep you from fearing and worrying.
Once this realization that it was hitting nearby (landfall would be miles from our home), we knew the best insurance was prayer. We prayed as a group and miraculously the fear dissipated. When we were the most fearful, we prayed again. We could see the storm through our hurricane (impact glass) windows and that in itself was not reassuring. The blessing to me was that it was during the day and not at night. This was the longest storm I’ve been through. It began at about 11 am and we lost power around 1 pm (and for five days afterward). The storm raged until at least 7 pm when the worse was past but rain and wind gusts still blew.
By praying that light of Christ that dispels darkness, that perfect love that casts out fear came into play in our lives in a real and powerful way.
How do we keep ourselves in the light? By reading Scripture, attending church, joining in Bible studies, and reading good Christian books. When we surround ourselves with a focus on God our lives become richer. This became real for me several months ago, when my husband had surgery on his foot, and I became his caregiver. He had a three-month recovery and is at the end of it at this point in time. I was depressed because I realized, I was not attending daily Mass, nor praying as I did before. My routine had been shaken. I asked if he’d pray with me daily and he readily agreed. My outlook improved dramatically.
Identifying the reason, we are in the dark rather than light is half of our problem. I pray you can identify the darkness in your life and eradicate it with prayer. How are you praying? We typically petition when we pray. “Please Lord, I need this – or I need that.” Remember that praying is two-way, we pray and we listen. Even if we don’t think we hear the Lord, we can if we open our Bibles, these words are for each and every one of us. Not just for random people years ago, but for you and for me, today!
After the storm, while we had no power or internet (as I share this with you we are two weeks after the storm and still have no internet other than hot-spotting our phones), we could not see the pictures of the devastation on Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island or Captiva. But once we did tap in and look we felt hopeless and distraught. We did not know how we could possibly help our friends, even though we were able to help a few right after the storm. Our pastor’s home was flooded. So once again, we prayed, asked the Lord how we could help, and proceeded again. And, once again the darkness was dispelled.
What are the Bible verses that have an impact on you? What are the words that resonate and help to dispel darkness? Do you have a journal where you can list these? Sure, we can use a topical list but the verses that have the most impact are those that you read and seem to leap off the page.
One of my favorite Bible verses or the verse that really had a great impact upon me early on when I began to read the Bible regularly is John 1 – 5. I love it!
The answer is to allow that light to penetrate our hearts. Another verse I love along the same theme is Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Most of us do not realize how important our works are in regard to sharing the light of Christ in our hearts with others but as it pertains to our salvation and our faith. We must have faith, in Christ and understand the ramifications of salvation but we also must realize that works are important. Without our works, glorified through Christ so we do not boast or brag but give GLORY to our Father in heaven, and without works faith is dead.
We read this in James 2:14-26 (Read online.)
The idea here is to put action behind our faith. Peace be with you is wonderful, but without following through, the light of Christ in us will remain dormant. Lastly, in Phillippians 2:12-13 (Read online.)
These verses show me time and again that I don’t have to do things on my own. I can have the light of Christ within me if I just allow it to penetrate my heart. Which in turn brings me such joy, just talking about this is giving me joy right now! The Lord dispels darkness and for that, I am eternally grateful!
May God be glorified and this week, please gather those scriptures that touch you about God’s light and share them with others. Amen!
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What is my purpose?
“Each one of us has been called from all eternity to fulfil a divine vocation. God the Father brought us into life (no one has been born by accident). He created our soul. He drew us into his intimate life through the Sacrament of Baptism. By means of this sacrament God has commissioned us; He has put his seal upon us and given us his Spirit in our hears as a gurantee. He has given us a specific work to accomplish in this life and has prepared a plcae for us in heaven.” In Conversation with God, Volume 5, Father Francis Fernandez
Who created us?God created us and calls us to a divine vocation. It may not always look the same as we move through life, but that is not the point. The point is to do the small, daily things that help us move forward in our vocation.
He created our souls. And that means we ought to nurture them with love. Soul care is a means of honoring who we are in relation to God and thanking him for our souls.
No challenge this week. I’d like to hear your thoughts on the weekly challenges; yes or no?
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Jan Tate worked in the Ministry of Marriage Preparation with her husband, Lloyd. They published their in-home marriage preparation manual in conjunction with the Diocese of Baton Rouge. For 12 years, Jan worked with mother-daughter, father-son programs sponsored by the Family Life Apostolate for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. She is a trained Spiritual Director and serves on the staff of Archdiocese Spirituality Center.
She has conducted numerous retreats for men, women and couples and days of reflection. Jan is also a trained facilitator for At-Home Retreat Program. She is on the circuit of speakers for the Supper and Substance program for married couples. Jan and Lloyd were married in 1972 and have 5 children and 10 grandchildren. She is a native New Orleanian and graduated from Loyola University in Communications.
Her favorite scripture verse is Hosea 11:4 I drew them with human cords with bands of love. I fostered them like one who raises an infant to his cheeks, yet though I stoop to feed my child, they did not know that I was their healer.
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The true self is who we really are – made in the image and likeness of God as His sons and daughters. We’re in this place when we’re calm, compassionate and confident. The true self responds out of love and is immutable. The false self, by contrast responds from a place of fear. In many places the Scriptures talk about putting off the old man and putting on the new man. The false self is the old man, and the true self is the new man.
How do we do that? How do we make that journey? It’s a process of grace and coming to understand more and more who God is and what He asks of us. We come to realize how powerless we are. How we relate to our powerlessness is a process of conversion in relationship to God, ourselves, and others. By receiving from the Lord and relating to ourselves as He does, we grow in our ability to reach out to others in compassion. It’s a wonderful and challenging process.
Experiencing powerlessness is the moment of testing where we make the choice to respond in a sinful way or in a courageous way. Powerlessness is scary and we can either be sent on a negative cycle toward disconnection or a positive cycle toward intimacy with the Lord. When we see that there’s a positive direction we can move, it can really be a game changer that turns the painful bitterness to sweetness. The same way sugar is the enemy when we’re on a diet, fear is the enemy in the spiritual life. How do we handle the fear?
Powerlessness can lead us to pride, self-reliance, an eventual sense of inadequacy (because we aren’t all powerful), and shame which then leads to isolation and disconnection and an even deeper sense of powerlessness. Conversely, when we encounter powerlessness, we can respond out of humility, relying on God because He is all-good, omnipotent and He is FOR US. This then leads to a change in our heart giving us hearts of gratitude, love and trust in the Lord, and a sense of intimacy with Him.
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Do you have your JOY plunger handy? We all need plungers for messy situations that can ruin our day, take our time or energy, and steal our JOY. Join us today and grab a summary of JOY maintenance tools from our Find the JOY Podcast series that can help maintain true JOY. You can stop the worry and grab the plunger.
Grab the PlungerDo you have a plunger handy? “What does a plunger have to do with finding the joy and stopping the worry?” A lot! We all need plungers for messy situations – for the sudden, unexpected events, joy busters or “stuff” that can ruin our day, take our time or energy, and steal our JOY. Today you will be reminded of all the JOY maintenance tools that we have covered in our Find the JOY podcast Series. Plus you will hear about the next Podcast series: Advent JOY. It’s never too early to start an Advent JOY Journey.
Tool #1 -Declarations of God’s Love for YOULook to the Love of the Trinity. Tool #1 -Declarations. Biblical JOY is rooted in the love of the Trinity-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Everyday remind yourself of these truths: God LOVES ME and offers ME fullness of JOY. Jesus loves me offers me His complete JOY. The Holy Spirit loves me & produces in your life. I am invited into their LOVE ( John 15, Psalm 16, and Galatians 5).
Tool #2 – The 5-Minute More JOY Prayer GuideGod is a Niagara Falls of Love. To Receive more Love and JOY from God, follow the prayer guide with the thee four prompts: Ask, Receive JOY, Thank and Read Scripture.
Tool #3 – Four Biblical AffirmationsTrue JOY is based in the Trinity and involves Body, Mind, Soul and Spirit. The JOY Affirmations are based on the definition of JOY and can be repeated everyday: (1) God LOVES me (John 15: 9-11);( 2) God is NEAR to me; He is with me always (Psalm 139: 1-6, Matthew 28: 20); (3) God is my HELP; He is FOR me (Isaiah 41: 10, 13); and (4) The Holy Spirit PRODUCES JOY in ME; I will exude God’s JOY (Galatians 5: 22-23).
Tool #4 -The WRAP Method for JOYWRAP Yourself in JOY & Scripture every day. Read and pray Scripture with the WRAP template for hearing God can conversing with Him: W=write down the words that arise out of a Bible reading; R=reflect on and enter into conversation with the Jesus over the words; A=apply what God is speaking in the message, and P =praise and pray to receive the grace needed to respond. Finally, REST and RECEIVE God’s JOY, Love & peace.
Tool #5 – Praise God with His Attributes from ScriptureJOY and Praising God are connected. You can use praises such as these: O Lord, You are Awesome (Deut. 10:17), Jesus, You are Forgiving (Ps. 103: 1-2), God, You are Beautiful (Ps. 24: 5) Lord God, You are Merciful (Ps. 103: 4-5), God, You are Mighty God (Ps. 89: 8) or use Praise Bursts – I love You Jesus, I praise You Jesus, etc. See the free bookmarks for many suggestions for praising Gon on the WRAPYourselfinJOY.com website.
Tool #6 -The Plan and TIPStop Joy Busters with a Plan and a TIP. Follow these steps: 1) Be Aware- Notice when your heart is troubled and your joy is diminished; 2) Understand the source of the joy buster/ JOYbusting; and 3) Take Action to reject joybusting instead of spiraling down into a pit of negativity (Rev. Timothy M. Gallagher, The Discernment of Spirits: An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living . Use TIP: (1) THANK. Recall something for which you are grateful and thank Jesus for it. (2) IMAGINE. Picture Jesus with arms outstretched, you give Him your JOY Buster and you receive His peace instead.(3) PERSIST. Persist in remembering the JOY or loving emotions of your thanksgiving to reset your brain neurons to JOY.
Tool #7 – BEGIN AGAINStart over if you fail in resisting JOY busters. Give your weaknesses to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Commit your worries, anxieties, and cares to the Heart of Jesus. Using Holy Imagery, put your worries, fears, frets and more into His Sacred Heart and leave them there. Begin Again.
Tool #8 – The Philippians 4 Plan to Stop Worry Arrest WORRY as it cannot add even an hour to your life according to Jesus. Paul tells us exactly what to do to arrest worry in Philippians 4: 7-11: 1) PAUSE—make up your mind to STOP worrying, 2) Pray for your needs, 3) Thank God for his blessings with every petition, and 4) Receive God’s peace.
Tool #9 – Keep a JOY JournalRecord your JOYS in a Journal. Using a notebook or notes app on your phone, record your JOY thanksgivings daily so you can always give God praise, offer thanks and be ready to share them.
Tool #10 -Find the JOY, Stop the Worry, a Grab a Plunger with a Prayer Partner or Prayer GroupDon’t go it alone. Find Friendship JOY. Go to church. Study how to find true JOY in Scripture with a friend or small group. Pray with a friend to find more JOY every week and have them pray for you. It will make a huge difference in your life. You will be able to stop the worry and grab the plunger.
ADVENT JOYNext, I will be podcasting a series on Advent JOY. Please join me as week meet the people, events, and prayer at the first coming of Jesus. You can go to my website and subscribe at https://wrapyourselfinjoy.com/ so you can follow the podcast and learn more about Advent JOY.
You can download a Bookmark Summary of all the JOY Maintenance Tools from Podcast #9 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more JOY podcasts here!
Find the WRAP Yourself in JOY book by clicking here.
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Christian Harvest and Faith – Episode 223What is a Christian Harvest? It is a time for a harvest of souls for Christ. We can only plant seeds, and the Lord reaps the harvest. So what is our duty as Christians and are we even obligated? That will be our focus in today’s episode.
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I love fall and where I live there is green-green-green all around me. Yet, I can still celebrate the fall season with decorations around my home. Fall is a time for harvesting after the hard work of planting seeds, nurturing, and caring for them. We celebrate harvest time in many ways, maybe you decorate as I do, or you can look out your window and see the glory of the changing leaves and the beautiful scenery that God has given you. Another way we celebrate is with food, especially pumpkin. Is it just me, or is there “pumpkin” everything now?
How do we look at harvest in the spiritual world? When we think of harvest, we think of it in terms of the harvesting of souls. Souls for Christ. As a young Christian, I focused on sharing the good news, but I also want to see the results or the “fruits” of conversion. You can imagine how that worked out. It was not my job to plant and reap, only the Lord can reap the harvest. But it is our job to share the wonderful works of the Lord and in our hurting world, the people are hungry for good news.
I recall a sermon that taught “faith is not faith until it is tested,” and so too our faith is tested daily. We are given a chance in our lives to plant the seeds of faith so that others too may be saved.
As a follower of Christ, you are a disciple and you are tasked to share the good news. So what do disciples do? We receive instructions from Scripture. In Luke 10:1-5 we read (on air).
Is it possible in this current time to leave everything, go two by two and visit homes to share the good news? No. But, there are other ways that we can serve the Lord as laborers. One is to pray! I know there are many of you listening that would love to be used by the Lord to spread the good news. As I’ve shared in the past, if we ask the Lord to use us there will be opportunities that come to us. I’ve had repair people that have shared their struggle with faith and how they either left a church or left their belief altogether. I could listen and instead of sharing a bunch of what I thought were good solutions, I asked if I could pray with them. In my prayer, I asked the Lord to intercede, to heal the hurt of their heart, to open their eyes to sin in their life in need of repentance and I asked them if they wanted to rededicate their life to God. Some said yes and others, not right now. All I can do is plant the seeds.
One thing I could share with people I’ve met who are hurting because of wrong against them is to share that the greatest evil was the unjust crucifixion of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and out of that horrible, evil tragedy and sacrifice was the greatest gift given to mankind, our salvation. Some people accept that as truth and others do not.
Some time ago I read a book written by an atheist turned Christian and she gave the clearest reason she remained an atheist for many years. She was forced at around the age of 10 to become a Christian and accept Jesus as her Savior. She had no idea what this meant. All she could see were angry, judgemental people who were upset she would not accept Christ. She was scared and had questions but she was afraid to ask. The lady asked said, “If you do not accept Jesus you will not be like us – you will go to hell and you will not be a Christian.” All this young girl could think was… “okay I won’t be like you who I find scary and hateful and I will be like my parents who are not believers? I chose them over you.”
It took her many years to understand they were well-meaning but their approach was all wrong. They used threats, fear and intimidation instead of openness, love, and invitation.
We are all refined in this life – in Malachi 3:1-3 we read (on air).
As the Lord uses us to help as laborers for the Kingdom of God we are open to learning, and understand that we should not be afraid, that God will provide for us, and that God will give us the tools we need when we need them. Our journey is one we do not take alone but with the Almighty beside us.
When we personally encounter Jesus, we can’t help but want to live our lives in a way that is pleasing. We are filled with the Holy Spirit and that overflowing of God’s love is too hard to contain! We are called to love and to have compassion, we are called to be there for others. If you can just listen. Being a good listener is a gift. We don’t need to come up with solutions we need to be open to hearing and discerning. Maybe something that is said will spark an idea that might be helpful. We are called to be faithful and to be bold! We are witnesses to the faith.
In Scripture, we find the times of harvest were usually when things were going badly for the people and they turned their “hardened hearts” back to God. Now is a time for people to turn back to God. People are sad, they are afraid, they are confused.
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A teaching on the gift of the Holy Spirit experienced through the Sacred Heart of Jesus
given by Fr. Thomas Cebula in June of 2022. Three reasons why Fr. Cebula gave this
teaching in June, first, it is the month devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, second, we
celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, the grand celebration of the Lords gift of the Holy
Spirit to the whole Church, third, June is traditionally known as the month of the bride.
Salvation history is often described as an expression of God’s desire to marry us, the
human race. The gift of the Holy Spirit experienced through the Sacred Heart of Jesus
is the consummation of the marriage.
Fr. Thomas Cebula is the Spiritual Advisor for the Magnificat Stark County Ohio
Chapter. He is currently the Senior Chaplain of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel,
Walsh University, North Canton, OH.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at
www.magnificat-ministry.org
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Aggie Neck is Chairman of the National Service Committee of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of the United States. She is Co-Director of Service House and Catholic House of Prayer, a place of prayer, seminars, spiritual direction, bible studies, prison ministry, food for those in need. She has devoted her life to the ministry and takes seriously Jesus command to feed the hungry, visit the imprisoned and set the captives free. She is a member of CENLA, a Magnificat Chapter in central Louisiana.
Jesus has led me to discover who I am in him. He has opened my to see and understand that I have value and ability in and through him.
To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us ‘ www.magnificat-ministry.org
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God intends great things for our lives, but when we look at our personal sufferings, that can be hard to hold onto. What are we to do with suffering when we don’t experience healing? There can even be a misconception that there is a certain point in time at which I am finished with my healing journey or that there are people who don’t experience suffering. Neither of these are true. We all go through sufferings to one degree or another in this life and healing is an ongoing process.
Since suffering is an ongoing process, healing ought to be, as well. The Lord’s mercies are renewed each day and He always has greater freedom, joy, and peace for us. They can be a regular part of our daily prayer times. If we normalize the concept of suffering, we can be alleviated of the pressure and burden that we aren’t good enough if we still have areas of woundedness.
Life is a process and there’s always something that is going to come forward where the Lord wants to bring us into greater wholeness and deeper relationship with Himself. Healing is certainly a good thing and something to be open to and seek. However, there is time. Life is a process. The Lord is ever present to us and can even surprise us with healing. If the Lord is permitting us to suffer, it can be a great challenge for us to trust in God’s love and goodness, but we know that He is all good, all loving, and all wise.
As Catholics, we are privileged to have access to the Lord in His Real Presence. We don’t have to wait for a healing Mass because every Mass is a healing Mass. We don’t have to fear pain and suffering when they come, and the Lord hasn’t yet healed it because He is working an even greater healing in us in the waiting. We don’t suffer alone. When we unite our sufferings to the Lord’s and suffer them with Him knowing He is suffering them with us, they become an occasion for intimacy. This is the notion of atonement. At-one-ment…being at one with Jesus.
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How are you at arresting the Big JOY thief -WORRY? Worry is not just a JOY Buster. It’s a big JOY thief and it brings on fretting. In only a few dances with fretting, you will be exhausted and any JOY you once had will be greatly challenged. Join us today and discover how to arrest the big JOY thief Worry, stop the fretting and rest in God’s love.
Can your worry and rejoice at the same time?Have you ever pondered the question, “Can you worry and rejoice at the same time?” Today, you will find the answer. We will especially tackle what to do with WORRY because it will not only take your JOY but your peace as well. Worry’s companions are anxiety and fear so, dealing with worry will help you stop these thieves too. You will learn the four actions to take to replace worry with JOY, stop the fretting and rest in God’s love, all while responding with gentleness.
God Can Give You His JOYI used to worry about everything. But when my house burned down and my husband died, I eventually stopped worrying. The worst had happened to me—more than I could imagine or worry about! But God got me through it all, and in the process, I learned to TRUST HIM. He took all my tears, counted them and kept them in his heart. Psalm 56 says this: O God, You have kept count of my tossings [wanderings]; You put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your record?… This I know, that God is for me. 11 in God I trust; I am not afraid.” So God put all my tears in a bottle, kept them in his heart, gave me his joy AND I took it !!!
Do Not be Overcome with WorryIn Matthew 6: 25-34, Jesus tells us not to worry about even our most basic needs of food, water, and clothing. He didn’t say we should shirk our responsibilities of trying to make a living, but he told us not to be overcome with worry — even for our basic needs. God so beautifully takes care of birds of the air and clothes the flowers with great splendor, how much more will He take care of you? In fact, Jesus said worry will not add “one single hour to your span of life.”
Worry Skips Ahead of God’s ProvisionWorry focuses on what can go wrong, what might go wrong, what will likely go wrong in the future. It skips ahead of God’s provision and can sap you of your JOY, strength, and your peace. The problem with worry is that it leads to fretting.
FrettingThe Bible says NOT only to stop worrying, but to stop fretting. The Hebrew word we translate as fretting includes the idea of firing up rage, kindling anger. The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines a FRET as a worry, annoyance, or discontentment that “gnaws at you” and “involves an irritated state of mind”(www.dictionary.com/browse/fret). Fretting takes worry to a new level. It eats away at your peace. It will eventually be expressed in outward anger or other ways.
Physical Impact on Your BodyWorry as well as fretting, fear and anxiety can have a physical impact on our bodies. According to medical research, worry, fretting, fear, and anxiety have been linked to indigestion or digestive disorders, fatigue, sleeplessness, ulcers, heart problems, skin ailments, lack of concentration and addictions, to name a few physical symptoms and outcomes (For example: www.webmd.com/balance/guide/how-worrying-affects-your-body.
ActionsSt. Paul in Philippians 4: 4-7 tells us what to do. (1) Make a decision to rejoice in the Lord—return to JOY and seek JOY from the Lord instead of sitting down in a puddle of worrying and fretting. (2) Pray for your needs and the needs of others. (3) For every need you express in prayer, offer a related thanksgiving. (4) Receive God’s peace.
Walk in GentlenessIn Philippians 5: 5, St. Paul sandwiches between v. 4 and v. 6 these words: ”Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.“ The USCCB Online Commentary says: The Lord is near “echoes the perpetual presence of the Lord with us (i.e., Psalm.119:151).” Fretting and worry can turn to rage or anger quickly. But when you practice being gentle, you shut down your stronger, harsher, angry JOYbusting responses.
Note. If you continue to experience excessive worry, anxiety or fear, please do not hesitate to see a professional—a medical doctor or counselor. In fact you should in these cases. Sometimes we need more professional help for our bodies and our lives, and God is with us in this plan too.
You can download a Bookmark to help you Arrest WORRY from Podcast #8 at my website: WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.
Check out more podcasts here!
Find the WRAP Yourself in JOY book by clicking here.
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What does being present in prayer have to do with your spiritual life? Well, this is an amazing insight into getting closer to God that was recently shared with me during a sermon, and it really hit home. I hope you are blessed as well.
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A New Book It is always a pleasure when I talk with an author and doubly so when she is a friend! You’ve met Allison Gingras before, but today it’s all about her own new book, Encountering SIgns of Faith: My Unexpected Journey with Sacramentals, the Saints and the Abundant Grace of God. What’s it […]
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This week on the podcast in A Moment in Scripture- The New Family of Jesus LK:19-21 by Deacon David Hockwalt.
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Paulette Renaudin shares how the Lord turned her life around 180 degrees through a kaleidoscope of events in this week's testimony.
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In 1997, I ended up in a roommate situation that turned out to be one of the most dramatic experiences of my life, but the Lord actually used it to teach me tremendous lessons about His wisdom, goodness, power, provision, and desire to be intimately involved in the details of our lives.
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Begin Again and Defeat Joy Busters. Join us today as we continue our focus on how to defeat JOY-sapping experiences and leave the past behind.
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Integrity and Faith ~ Episode 221 How can we pray in an effective manner? And where did integrity and faith go? So few people have both! Listen in to learn more about how we can pray for our family, our pastors, our church, and those in the world in a powerful way. Thanks to our […]
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We all do it Or at least it seems so to me. Worry that is, looking forward or back, wondering what we could have or should have or ought to do better or differently. The preoccupation with the possibilities instead of what is does not help us. Scripture “I am the God of your faither, […]
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Joy Pinto lived this perfect and happy life as a Protestant Pastor’s wife until her husband Jim felt called to return to the Catholic Church.
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Margaret and Fr. David discuss The Context of Holiness by Fr. Marc Foley, OCD as he examined human and spiritual integration in the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux.
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Defeating JOY Busters - Join us today and discover the actions you must take to defeat JOY Buster’s and their effect on your life.
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God’s Word Revealed – Episode 220 We often read the Bible and are left unmoved, but through the words of scripture, God’s word is revealed. Why is that? What are the tools you need to get you into the right frame of mind before praying and delving into the scriptures? Stay tuned and find out. […]
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Fine Line There is a fine line between true, good, and holy desires and grasping for more. Our world tells us that we are not enough or maybe too much; that we need to do more, be more, and have more. Always striving for an ideal that is beyond reach. That is not of God. […]
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Dr. Cyndi Peterson has experienced amazing grace in raising a family and knows that if one seeks God you will find him.
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Margaret Vasquez, LPCC and Fr. David Tickerhoof, TOR discuss the notion of the baptism in fire that was foretold by St. John the Baptist.
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Praising and Thanking for JOY will help expand your prayer life from “petition addict” to one of praising JOY so that you can enjoy God too.
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Plant Seeds of Faith ~ Episode 219 Do you plant seeds of faith or do you keep all those wonderful blessings for yourself? It is easier than you think and the good news is that not the Lord harvests and not us! In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz shares the joys of faith planting. Visit our […]
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Karen Moses is a wife of over 40 years and mother of two sons. She was a Sunday Catholic until she had a conversion of heart in 1990.
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As we develop in these areas we grow in both human and spiritual maturity. These principles help us to focus on being rather than doing.
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Today we are WRAP-ing JOY. How would you like to feel wrapped in JOY? Have you ever wanted to hear God speak to YOU? You can! We will discuss the JOY you can experience from a two-way conversation with your Heavenly Father. You will learn the WRAP method for interactive prayer, how to avoid being a talkaholic in prayer, the four-stages for prayer, and the best way to REST in God's Love and receive His JOY.God Yearns for a Relationship with You. Enjoy this new podcast!
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Word of God ~ God Speaking To Us – Episode 218 When we think about the Word of God we consider The Holy Bible as the source, as we should. But what about internal thoughts or feelings that God is with you? In this podcast, we will delve into the Word of God not only […]
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Learning to Wait Not my strong suit. Same as being still, not always easy, as I said in the last episode! But there is beauty in stillness; it builds trust, trust in God. And God will always come through for you. Trust in the Slow Work of God Above all, trust in the slow work […]
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Compassion, mercy, and forgiveness are essential for healthy relationships. We become the hands and feet of the Lord by relating to others the way He relates to us.
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Are you awakening to more JOY in your life? Join the podcast to awaken more joy in your life and find out what God is singing over YOU.
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Jesus saves and rescues us with the analogy of a boat. Stories from scripture are shared with lessons our Lord is trying to teach us in his faithfulness to us.
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Family Transformed – Episode 217 Are you ready for a transformation within your own family? How about a challenge for a transformed family? This is a follow-up to the last episode of Heart Transformed Thanks to our sponsor, CTC Math a wonderful math curriculum for kids K-12 Why is it we can see the faults […]
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What to do when you don’t know what to do Often times our inclination is to do something. And that may be the wrong answer. We may be doing something that is not within our scope of influence or concern. We may be getting in God’s way! So what is the answer? The LORD will […]
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Have ever wondered if lasting Joy is attainable? Today we will discuss a definition for true and lasting JOY plus 4 Tips for increasing JOY in your life.
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It’s essential for lives of wholeness and holiness that we grow in communion with the Lord, personal integration, and charity toward others.
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In the past few episodes we've looked at ways to grow closer to the Lord, with an at-home Christian retreat, and looking at nature and seeing the hand of God, and renewing our faith. But how do you have a heart transformation?
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How did this book come about? One day, Isabel went to camp and was made fun of for wearing a medal of Mary, Our Blessed Mother. She was broken-hearted, and neither her mother or aunt (Alyssa Bormes) could console her. She she and her aunt wrote a letter to a priest friend, Fr. Paul Murray. […]
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As Christians we can tend to over spiritualize, and secular society tends to under spiritualize. We need a paradigm by which to understand how to build a firm foundation that includes both human and spiritual maturity.
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Join us today as we search for how to be filled with true and lasting JOY every day.
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Joshua 25:15 is a verse many of us have memorized, “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.”
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A Moment in Scripture- ‘Correcting a Brother’ Matt. 18: 15-20 By Deacon David Hockwalt DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team. We pray that today may be […]
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What does trust mean? What does the word trust mean? “A firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of someone or something.” We have belief in God. He is reliable. He is truth. His ability is above all, as is His strength. We can trust Him. Yet we falter at times. The Word […]
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Continuing in our understanding of the biology of trauma, trauma is anything that overwhelms the person’s normal ability to cope.
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When we take the time to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation we are astounded at what we see. God shows us each day how He loves us.
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A few weeks ago I interviewed Rachel Balducci about her new book, No Such Thing as Ordinary and we talked about how oftentimes, we are waiting to do something big and important for God and miss what is in front of us. Reminder from God I have lots of insomnia lately and so the middle […]
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Episode #2 – Introduction to Trauma Series (Avoiding Spiritual Identity Theft!) Have you or someone you love endured sufferings in which you continue to feel stuck? Does this leave you feeling confused or even fearful, perhaps even rejected or abandoned by God? Unfortunately, there are so many types of trauma and such experiences are so […]
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Christian Retreat ~ At Home – Episode 213 It is time to fill up your spiritual tank with a Christian retreat. No matter what time of the year a refilling is good and that begins with a good Bible Study, or you, the Holy Spirit, and a pad and paper. Have you ever tried to […]
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Suscipe or Surrender Prayer Take Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my will, all that I have and cherish you have given to me; I surrender it all to be guided by your will. Your grace and strength are wealth enough for me. I ask for this and nothing more. […]
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A Moment in Scripture- ‘The Ambition of James & John Matt. 20:20-28 By Deacon David Hockwalt DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team. We pray that today […]
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Have you ever wondered how our natural human lives and the spiritual life are connected?
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Join professional counselor and certified trauma therapist Margaret Vasquez for an inspiring and practical look at human and spiritual integration from a Catholic perspective. Gain practical understanding, tips, and tools for personal integration and healthy relationships for lives of wholeness and holiness. Margaret is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Certified Trauma Therapist, Certified Intensive Trauma […]
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A Christian journey sometimes feels like a constant struggle to make that lemonade our of lemons.
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A Moment in Scripture- ‘The Kingdom of Heaven’ Matt. 13:44-46 by Deacon David Hockwalt
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It is time to renew your faith in God. Today. There are so many things we renew but often our faith is left behind.
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How to Be Happy as You Age There are 7 indicators, based on a Harvard Study that indicate how happy and well you will be later in life. A full explanation is here. Briefly, the 7 are: Don’t smoke Do not abuse alcohol Maintain healthy body weight Exercise Adaptive coping style Education Stable, long-term relationships […]
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I had a podcast I wanted to create on my personal journey closer to the Holy Spirit and deeper faith. Yet, it was scheduled to play a few months ago. But I postponed it. Truthfully, I was stuck. I didn’t know what I wanted to say. However, I prayed and felt that the time was right. So, I’ll share with you a bit about my journey.
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A New Book It’s always a treat to interview authors whose books I’ve read. Rachel Balducci is a speaker, writer and co-host of The Gist on Catholic TV. She teaches journalism at Augusta University and is married to Paul. They have five sons and one daughter. Her latest book, No Such Thing as Ordinary: Unlocking Your […]
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What is supernatural faith? It is faith that surpasses all understanding. Join me as we delve into the topic of faith especially when times get hard. We are called to live in the hope that is in Christ, but in our humanness, we often fail.
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The question Jesus puts to the lawyer, "Who do you think was neighbor to the man?" Is the same question that is being asked of you and me. God's love is so great that anyone who is in need is eligible for his help.
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Scripture He entered a boat, made the crossing, and came into his own town. And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.” At that, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” […]
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14th Sunday of Ordinary Time-C July 3, 2022 –Bread of Life Bible Study The disciples were not trained in any special categories, nor did they have any unique qualifications. What made them different was their awareness of Jesus’ power and their vision to reach all the people through him. There is no unemployment in Christian […]
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Memorize Scripture When was the last time you attempted to memorize scripture? This is worthwhile and beneficial to our spiritual growth. By memorizing the verses we can ingrain them into our hearts and call them to mind in times when we struggle. Here are some tips for memorizing with ease. Visit Media Angels and the […]
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What is Spiritual Direction? “It is the guidance of a person into a life truly under the dominion of the Holy Sprit, who is the primary director.” from Seeking Spiritual Direction by Thomas Dubay, S.J. “Spiritual direction is concerned with helping a person directly with his or her realtionship with God…the most fundamental issue is […]
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13th Sunday of Ordinary Time-C June 26, 2022 –Bread of Life Bible Study Today’s gospel gives us a third example concerning the vocation to follow Christ. Vocation entails a “totality.” By this I mean that once we set out to follow Christ we do so wholeheartedly, no half-way measures. We cannot chase after other pursuits; […]
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Godly Dependence and Choice ~ Episode 207 We pride ourselves with be independent and able to handle life on our own. But for Christians, we realize that Godly dependence is the most important thing in our lives. How can we depend on God and allow ourselves to grow in faith? Listen in to find out. […]
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Catholics having a revival Yes, we are, starting on June 19, 2022, until July 17, 2024. That is two years to unpack the riches of the Eucharist, grow individually in your personal relationship with the Lord, and change the world! Take a look here at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ National Eucharistic Revival […]
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When we live lives of personal and relational peace, there is abundant fruit on both a human level and in our spiritual lives.
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In the Catholic Church we believe in the real presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist. This worship service is called "The Mass," and it is a celebration of Word and Sacrament.
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Spiritual Realm ~ Anchor Yourself to God ~ Episode 206 We don’t know much about the spiritual realm in the sense of Christianity, other than what we’ve read in the Bible, learned in Church, or studied on our own. Yet there is so much more to learn! Visit my website at MediaAngels.com for more information […]
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Thoughts from St. Hildegard “But the Father is revealed through the Son, the Son through the beginning of created things, and the Holy Spirit through the incarnate Son. How is this? It is the Father who before time engendered the Son; it is the Son through whom all things were created by the Father at […]
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SUBSCRIBE HERE: Join award winning speaker, teacher and author, Karen Dwyer as we search for joy together. We will explore how to find true JOY, how to awaken JOY, how to defeat JOY Busters and how to create a JOY-filled prayer life – from a Christian perspective, a Biblical Perspective, a Catholic perspective. We will […]
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Trinity Sunday-C June 12th, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study Our relationship with God has begun in faith which reveals to us that we are delivered from our past by Christ’s death. Hope grows as we learn all that God has in store for us, and God’s love supplies all our needs and enables […]
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Army of God ~ Episode 205 The army of God is here and ready! Are you prepared to do battle the spiritual way? In this episode, I share how we are not alone! We have an entire army ready to battle for us, and here is how to do it! Enjoy all of my books […]
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Come, Holy Spirit The Feast of Pentecost is a theophany, a manifestation of God! Luke, the writer of Acts, uses the retelling as a way to remind us that the Jews also celebrated Pentecost. For them, it was the celebration of Moses receiving the Torah from God on Mt. Sinai. The same wind and fire […]
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Pentecost Sunday-C June 4th, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study Today is, in reality, the birthday of the church, and the Christian religion was to be a church for the whole world. Let today be the day you fall on your knees and invite Jesus Christ to come into your heart and become the Lord […]
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Pentecost Beginning For Christians ~ Special Replay The truth can set you free, and on Pentecost, the Apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and became embolden speaking in tongues, in languages they did not know. How can we be filled with this spiritual influence and use it in our everyday lives to go out […]
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Spiritual Reflection on Mother Mary – Fr. Pat Crowley SS.CC MAS – North County San Diego Magnificat Chapter 5.21.22 Fr. Pat Crowley, SS.CC., MAS, is a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in the Western United States Province. Father Crowley is the Spiritual Advisor for the Magnificat North County […]
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In this podcast, Fr. David and Margaret Vasquez discuss how we can break the cycle of fear and hurt and allow ourselves to be more fully embraced by Perfect Love who casts out fear.
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7th Sunday of Easter-C. & Ascension – Bread of Life Bible Study It is more natural for people to be divided then united. It is more natural for people to fly apart then to come together. But real unity between all Christians would require a “supernatural solution, and that solution is loving one another as […]
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Kingdom of God ~ Episode 204 The Kingdom of God is at hand… what does this mean? I struggled with this concept for years, yet I found that the more complicated I made it the more elusive it became. In this podcast, I share what I found in my search for the Kingdom of God. […]
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A Moment in Scripture- ‘Feast of Dedication’ John 10:22-30 by Deacon David Hockwalt DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team. We pray that today may be a […]
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6th Sunday of Easter-C. May 22, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study Today, living a life conforming to the prompting of the Holy Spirit is not easy. We have so many distractions in our everyday living, that only the Holy Spirit could empower us to remember with clarity the obedience that’s needed to walk […]
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Presence of God – Special Replay For a Christian, the presence of God is an amazing feeling and even without that feeling, we have faith that God is with us always. How do we understand God’s presence? We will look at the Scriptures for clarification during this episode. Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. […]
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5th Sunday of Easter-C, May 15, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study Jesus’s love for us shows us that there is no glory like that of being loved. Let that sink in for a moment. He died for you because he loved you just as you are, not as you should be. “There […]
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Holy Spirit – Spiritual Journey ~ Episode 203 A spiritual journey is personal and it is different for each one of us, and it begins with faith and a large dose of the Holy Spirit. God promised He would not leave us orphans and the infilling of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost was this gift […]
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Our soul needs care just as our body does. This week, I’m offering 5 suggestions that help me be the Christian witness I want to be and live notlukewarm! Five Ways Start your day with a prayer. Read scripture. Spend time in nature, noticing the beauty of God’s creation. Sit in silence for a short […]
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Because the particularly hurtful events we endure can become encoded in the brain in a way where they continue to be experienced as current rather than past, we can be effected in a wide variety of ways without even being aware.
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A Moment in Scripture- ‘Nicodemus Seeks Answers John 3:7-15 by Deacon David Hockwalt DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team. We pray that today may be a […]
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4th Sunday of Easter, C – May 8, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study The role of a shepherd was very well known in Palestine, and they knew that a flock of sheep knew their master by the sound of his voice. When God speaks we must listen to him, or else we risk pushing […]
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Be sure to subscribe to this podcast or listen to this here – online. You can download this talk on your computer or you can listen on your phone. Share this podcast with a friend. Tools for Growing Spiritually Serving Others In this episode, we will explore ways to grow spiritually and serving others. Show […]
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About Catherine Catherine of Siena was born in Siena, Italy in 1347. She was a twin but her sister died shortly after birth. The following year the Black Death entered Siena. She had a vision of Jesus as a young child and from then knew she wanted to give her life to God and renew […]
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A Moment in Scripture- ‘Mary at the Tomb’ John 20:11-18 by Deacon David Hockwalt DEACON DAVID HOCKWALT was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2012. He continues in active ministry today and is the spiritual advisor to the vicariate Life in the Spirit team. We pray that today may be […]
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3rd Sunday of Easter, C – May 1, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study Better for us to obey God than man! He whom God has exalted at his right hand as ruler and savior is to bring repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. We testify to this. So too does the Holy Spirit, […]
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Do you understand the love of God the Father? If so, I applaud you! The love of God is one of those mind-blowing ideas that will take the rest of our lives to fully grasp, and even then, we fall short. I feel the Creator God is so amazing and I'm in awe of Him (as I should be!) In this podcast, we will discuss God the Father and how we worship Him, even when we don't necessarily think of Him.
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A new book! Maria Gallagher has written, Joyful Encounters with Mary: A Woman’s Guide to Living the Mysteries of the Rosary, a wonderful way to learn more about the joyful mysteries, virtues and the saints while living out your faith every day! 5 Joyful Mysteries The 5 joyful mysteries are the Annunciation, the Visitation, the […]
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2nd Sunday of Easter, C – April 24, 2022 – Bread of Life Bible Study Meeting their Resurrected Savior transformed eleven terrified apostles into courageous “keepers of the flame.” The secret of their power is also our secret, and that is the peace of mind and heart. The real power is the Holy Spirit, who […]
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Easter Sunday. April 17, 2022, Bread of Life Bible Study Alleluia is a Hebrew word that means “praise ye the Lord.” On this great day of Easter Sunday we give thanks, gratitude, and our complete joy in the form of praise to our Lord. We can only accept the fact of the resurrection when we […]
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Total Surrender – Special Replay Total surrender is easy, right? Well, as a Christian, it should be easier, in theory at least. In this podcast, we will discuss a way that is helpful to let go and let God. Thanks to our sponsor – MediaAngels.com How can we give God a total surrender of our […]
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Happy Easter I hope that if you pull this up on Good Friday, you wait for another day to listen. This is a resurrection meditation! Filled with the good news of Jesus’ triumph over death. A Fresh Hope Each year we celebrate Easter to remind ourselves, yet again, that Jesus gave us our salvation. The […]
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The work of Jesus Christ - the Ultimate Sacrifice, His saving death on the cross for our sins is learned by Christians very early on, but what have we done with this information? How has this transformed our lives? How can we look at this sacrifice as a gift and with joy for what He has done for us? In this podcast, the challenge will be to live out the good news.
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Who are they? Saints Hildegard of Bingen, Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Avila, and Therese of Lisieux are the four women Doctors of the Church! Why are they called Doctors? In honoring these women with this title, the Chuch is recognizing that the work and contributions each of these saints made has withstood the test […]
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Palm Sunday of Lent-C Bread of Life Bible Study The way to the Kingdom is the way of the Cross. Jesus then manifested to the whole world by being on the cross the core of healing is through forgiveness. Jesus asked the Father to forgive all those who were putting Him to death. “There is […]
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Faith and Hope Where do we find faith and hope in our lives? We tackle our mountainous to-do lists daily and find ourselves overwhelmed and floundering. And then we wonder where does our hope comes from, surely not the things we turn to daily for escape. Tune in for the answers. Thanks to our sponsor […]
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Scripture “I cannot do anything on my own; I judge as I hear, and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me.” John 5:30 Reflection If Jesus, who is the one speaking, makes the point that he cannot do anything on his […]
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Following Christ takes the renewal of the mind, and this is harder to do in today's culture. In this podcast, Father David shares a personal testimony as well as how the Lord showed him the missing piece in his life, regarding faith.
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5th Sunday of Lent-C Bread of Life Bible Study In Jesus there is the gospel of the second chance. He didn’t say that what the adulteress had done did not matter, broken laws and broken hearts always matter; but he was interested in her future more than her past. Jesus offers to all of us the […]
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