Discerning Hearts - Catholic Podcasts podcast

29:19

Episode 4 -Stations of the Cross: Reflections with Deacon James Keating – The Stations of the Cross – one of the most powerful devotionals alive in the heart of the Church. Reflecting and deeply meditating on the Passion of the Christ, Deacon Keating guides us through the 9th station (Jesus fall a 3rd time), the 10th station (Jesus is stripped of His garments), and the 11th station (Jesus is nailed to the Cross) along the Way of the Cross. For other episodes in the “ Stations of the Cross” series click here Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., is a professor of Spiritual Theology and serves as a spiritual director at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, MO. More episodes of Stations of the Cross with Deacon James Keating Ph.D. Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page Deacon Keating is also the author of: You can find the book here . From the book description: Deacon James Keating’s book Abiding in Christ: Staying with God in a Busy World is a how-to-pray resource. This book helps readers to find a quiet space wherein they can be present to God and offers suggestions of how they can be more open to God s movement within them. The post SC-4 – The 9th, 10th, and 11th Stations – Stations of the Cross with Deacon James Keating appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-24 3rd Friday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 2:22

11 hours ago2:22

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The Cross of Christ Transforms. . .Our Priorities Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —How does the cross fit into my stance toward God? Seek —Acknowledge God’s priority in your life, over your heart (all of your emotions), over your understanding (all of your thoughts), and overall of your strength (all of your actions). Knock —Meditate on 1 John 4:10–12. This is the love I mean: not our love for God, but God’s love for us when he sent his Son to be the sacrifice that takes our sins away. My dear people, since God has loved us so much, we too should love one another. No one has ever seen God; but as long as we love one another God will live in us and his love will be complete in us. How does John define “love”? What does the death of Jesus on the cross teach us about God’s love? How do we find God’s love in all the human suffering that we witness? How can we concretely love one another? Transform Your Life —Will yourself to love God and everyone else with whom you come into contact today and every day. Think about what it means to truly love other people. Seek to be a sacrificial lover first when it comes to the way you love other people and God. The author of “ The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life “ , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work! “ The Power of the Cross” is available as a free e-book here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page The post PoC-24 3rd Friday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 24: “Shelter in the Heart of God” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 6:30

12 hours ago6:30

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 24: “Shelter in the Heart of God” Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible): Psalm 91:1–2, 9–16 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent. For he will give his angels charge of you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot. Because he cleaves to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him my salvation. Reflection: After encountering the trials of spiritual battle, today’s psalm offers a tender promise: there is shelter, there is safety, there is a place of rest—in the heart of God. Psalm 91 is a psalm of deep consolation. It speaks of a God who does not leave us in our fear or abandon us in trial. He invites us to abide in Him, to find refuge in His presence like a weary orphan who has finally found a home. The intimacy and protection He offers is not abstract—it is real, and it meets us in our deepest vulnerability. This is not just about escape from external dangers. It is about trusting that God is our safe dwelling even when we are beset by inner turmoil: anxiety, temptation, grief, or fear. He places angels around us. He promises to lift us up. St. Augustine, in his Confessions, reflects on this interior shelter: “You were within me, but I was outside, and it was there that I searched for you. You were with me, but I was not with you.” ( Confessions, Book X ) So much of our spiritual journey is about returning inward, to dwell in God who already dwells within us. And how do we abide in Him? Through prayer, through silence, through the sacraments. By returning again and again to the One who never leaves. The Desert Fathers often spoke of resting in God even amid storms. Abba Arsenius prayed: “I have often repented of having spoken, but never of having remained silent.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Arsenius 10 ) In silence, in prayer, in stillness—we begin to hear the voice of the One who calls us His own. We must make space in our days to return to that quiet center. There we find not only protection, but the healing that prepares us to continue the journey. Let us dwell today in the shelter of the Most High, remembering that His presence is not just our destination—it is our home. Reflection Questions: Where do I seek shelter when I feel overwhelmed or afraid? Is it in God, or in lesser comforts? How can I make space today to rest in the presence of God through prayer or silence? What does it mean to you to be guarded, lifted, and honored by God? Closing Prayer: Lord, You are my refuge and my dwelling place. In You alone my soul finds rest. Draw me into the shadow of Your wings, that I may find shelter from every storm. Let me know the security of Your love and the peace that surpasses all understanding. Teach me to return to You in stillness and trust, and make my heart a home for Your presence. Amen. This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent. The post Day 24: “Shelter in the Heart of God” – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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3rd Friday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast 9:07

13 hours ago9:07

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3rd Friday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord. Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over” Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart… From the Holy Gospel of St. Mark 12:28-34 One of the scribes came up to Jesus and put a question to him, ‘Which is the first of all the commandments?’ Jesus replied, ‘This is the first: Listen, Israel, the Lord our God is the one Lord, and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: You must love your neighbour as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.’ The scribe said to him, ‘Well spoken, Master; what you have said is true: that he is one and there is no other. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and strength, and to love your neighbour as yourself, this is far more important than any holocaust or sacrifice.’ Jesus, seeing how wisely he had spoken, said, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’ And after that no one dared to question him any more. What word made this passage come alive for you? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you: One of the scribes came up to Jesus and put a question to him, ‘Which is the first of all the commandments?’ Jesus replied, ‘This is the first: Listen, Israel, the Lord our God is the one Lord, and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: You must love your neighbour as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.’ The scribe said to him, ‘Well spoken, Master; what you have said is true: that he is one and there is no other. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and strength, and to love your neighbour as yourself, this is far more important than any holocaust or sacrifice.’ Jesus, seeing how wisely he had spoken, said, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’ And after that no one dared to question him any more. What did your heart feel as you listened? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word: One of the scribes came up to Jesus and put a question to him, ‘Which is the first of all the commandments?’ Jesus replied, ‘This is the first: Listen, Israel, the Lord our God is the one Lord, and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: You must love your neighbour as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.’ The scribe said to him, ‘Well spoken, Master; what you have said is true: that he is one and there is no other. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and strength, and to love your neighbour as yourself, this is far more important than any holocaust or sacrifice.’ Jesus, seeing how wisely he had spoken, said, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’ And after that no one dared to question him any more. What touched your heart in this time of prayer? What did your heart feel as you prayed? What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord? Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post 3rd Friday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Lent – Praying from the Heart with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast 4:11

1 day ago4:11

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From Dr. Anthony Lilles’ blog “Beginning to Pray” During Lent, we dedicate ourselves to prayer, fasting and almsgiving. These practices are simple ways of expressing our gratitude to Jesus for what He has done for us. This in fact is the very nature of penance. Penance is love which responds to mercy – and this love is not content with words, thoughts and feelings. This love needs to express itself in a prayer the cries from the heart, in sacrifice that really costs, and in little hidden acts of kindness which comfort those who most need it. Why do we allow God to implicate us in the plights of others, especially during Lent? God’s love suffers the personal plight each of us. He does this because He does not want us to suffer alone. So He seeks us out in our suffering – the suffering that we have brought on ourselves and the suffering that others have brought on us. He is concerned about our dignity and He is ready to do whatever it takes that we might be rectified and stand with Him who is Love Himself. The extent to which He enters into our misery for this purpose is revealed on the Cross. If we are to be His disciples, we must pick up our cross and follow Him. This is how the Lord extends His saving mystery through space and time – He loves us so much He implicates us in this great work of His Love. No matter how many times we fail, no matter how great our weaknesses, no matter how inadequate we are to the demands of love — He is there with us, loving us, providing exactly what we need in the moment, and this because He really loves us that much. How can we not respond by offering Him food and drink when we recognize Him in the disguise of those who hunger and thirst? How can we not respond by forgoing a little comfort and convenience when He has already suffered so much discomfort and inconvenience for us? How can we not respond by praying for those who need the love of God when He has never forgotten us in His love for the Father? When prayer, sacrifice and generosity come together in thanksgiving to God for His goodness to us, deep places of the heart are purified and we rediscover the joy humanity was meant to know from the beginning. Lent is all about this joy – a joy God’s love allows us to know, the joy of being sons and daughters of God, the joy of heart so beautiful it would be wrong not to share it with those who need a little joy as well. Dr. Anthony Lilles is the author of “Hidden Mountain, Secret Garden”, which can be found here The post Lent – Praying from the Heart with Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-23 3rd Thursday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 2:07

1 day ago2:07

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The Cross of Christ Transforms. . .Our Lives Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —Do I trust in God? Seek —Frequently call upon the Lord for his help throughout the day. Life was not intended to be a solitary venture; recognize that God is always present, and is there for us when we call upon him. Knock —Meditate on Romans 10:11–13. The scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and bestows his riches upon all who call upon him. For, “every one who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.” What strikes you in the passage? Dwell on that part and let it enrich your faith in Jesus Christ. Transform Your Life —Pay attention to the way you think and act throughout the day. What do your actions and thoughts say about what you really trust in? When given choices between what you know God wants for you and what others are asking of you, who wins out? Radically commit to trusting in God and watch your life be transformed in ways that you can’t even imagine at this moment. The author of “ The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life “ , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work! “ The Power of the Cross” is available as a free e-book here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page The post PoC-23 3rd Thursday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 23: “The Battle Within” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 8:44

1 day ago8:44

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 23: “The Battle Within” Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible): Luke 11:14–23 Jesus was casting out a devil and it was dumb; but when the devil had gone out the dumb man spoke, and the people were amazed. But some of them said, ‘It is through Beelzebul, the prince of devils, that he casts out devils.’ Others asked him, as a test, for a sign from heaven; but, knowing what they were thinking, he said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is heading for ruin, and a household divided against itself collapses. So too with Satan: if he is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? – since you assert that it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils. Now if it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils, through whom do your own experts cast them out? Let them be your judges then. But if it is through the finger of God that I cast out devils, then know that the kingdom of God has overtaken you. So long as a strong man fully armed guards his own palace, his goods are undisturbed; but when someone stronger than he is attacks and defeats him, the stronger man takes away all the weapons he relied on and shares out his spoil. ‘He who is not with me is against me; and he who does not gather with me scatters.’ Reflection: By this point in our Lenten journey, we may have begun to taste the fruits of prayer, self-awareness, and even forgiveness. But with every step toward healing and holiness, we also encounter resistance. The enemy does not want us to grow in love. The more we open ourselves to grace, the more temptation may rise—whispers of accusation, discouragement, or the old lies that once held us captive. Today’s Gospel makes this dynamic visible. Jesus casts out a demon and restores speech to the mute man—but some in the crowd twist this act of mercy, accusing Him of using the devil’s power. Jesus responds by exposing the contradiction: evil cannot cast out evil. And He offers a deeper truth—that it is by the “finger of God” that He heals and frees. The real battle, Jesus teaches, is not merely external but within our hearts. We all have “strongholds”—areas where fear, sin, or pride have taken root. And like the strong man guarding his palace, we may have learned to defend ourselves with coping mechanisms or self-reliance. But Jesus is not a rival; He is the Redeemer. He comes not to take from us, but to rescue us , to reclaim us for the Kingdom of God. St. Gregory the Great , a Benedictine and Doctor of the Church, affirms this spiritual reality: “When we open our hearts to Christ, the darkness cannot remain. The devil flees not from words, but from the presence of God within.” ( Homilies on the Gospels, Homily 16 ) The Desert Fathers, too, understood that the struggle is often inward and lifelong. Abba Anthony the Great offered a striking insight: “Whoever has not experienced temptation cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Without temptations, no one can be saved.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Anthony 1 ) At first, these words may seem startling, especially if we are unfamiliar with the depth of monastic teaching. But they reveal a profound truth: temptation is not a sign that we have failed—it is part of the path to holiness. The spiritual life isn’t about avoiding the battle; it’s about recognizing that, through grace, we can engage it with Christ. Temptation becomes the arena in which we grow in humility, perseverance, and trust in God. Without the struggle, we might never know our need for Him—or the depth of His strength within us. St. Teresa of Ávila , too, reminds us that the real battleground is interior: “The devil fears a soul united to God as he does God Himself.” ( Interior Castle , Fifth Mansion) Temptation is not a sign of failure but of progress. It shows that the enemy is threatened. It is precisely through temptation—and through choosing Christ again and again—that we are strengthened in love. We resist evil not by white-knuckled effort alone but by drawing close to Christ through spiritual practices: regular prayer—especially the Examen—times of contemplative silence, reflection on Scripture, and the grace received in the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Reconciliation. These practices deepen our union with Jesus, who alone can disarm the lies of the enemy and bring freedom. Each time we feel tempted to give in to discouragement, division, or despair, let us remember that we are not fighting alone. Christ is with us. He is the one who sets us free. Reflection Questions: Where in your life do you feel spiritual resistance or inner division? What lies have you believed about yourself, and how might Jesus be inviting you to renounce them? Which practices—prayer, silence, sacraments—help you stand firm in Christ when the battle gets difficult? Closing Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have overcome the darkness. Enter the places in our lives where fear, discouragement, or sin still hold power. With the finger of God, cast out all that is not of You. Draw us into Your peace and make ourheart s whole. Give us strength to endure in prayer, wisdom to recognize the lies of the enemy, and courage to stay close to You. In You alone is our safety, our victory, and our home. Amen. This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent. The post Day 23: “The Battle Within” – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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3rd Thursday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast 11:49

1 day ago11:49

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3rd Thursday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord. Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over” Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart… From the Holy Gospel of St. Luke 11:14-23 Jesus was casting out a devil and it was dumb; but when the devil had gone out the dumb man spoke, and the people were amazed. But some of them said, ‘It is through Beelzebul, the prince of devils, that he casts out devils.’ Others asked him, as a test, for a sign from heaven; but, knowing what they were thinking, he said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is heading for ruin, and a household divided against itself collapses. So too with Satan: if he is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? – since you assert that it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils. Now if it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils, through whom do your own experts cast them out? Let them be your judges then. But if it is through the finger of God that I cast out devils, then know that the kingdom of God has overtaken you. So long as a strong man fully armed guards his own palace, his goods are undisturbed; but when someone stronger than he is attacks and defeats him, the stronger man takes away all the weapons he relied on and shares out his spoil. ‘He who is not with me is against me; and he who does not gather with me scatters.’ What word made this passage come alive for you? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you: Jesus was casting out a devil and it was dumb; but when the devil had gone out the dumb man spoke, and the people were amazed. But some of them said, ‘It is through Beelzebul, the prince of devils, that he casts out devils.’ Others asked him, as a test, for a sign from heaven; but, knowing what they were thinking, he said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is heading for ruin, and a household divided against itself collapses. So too with Satan: if he is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? – since you assert that it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils. Now if it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils, through whom do your own experts cast them out? Let them be your judges then. But if it is through the finger of God that I cast out devils, then know that the kingdom of God has overtaken you. So long as a strong man fully armed guards his own palace, his goods are undisturbed; but when someone stronger than he is attacks and defeats him, the stronger man takes away all the weapons he relied on and shares out his spoil. ‘He who is not with me is against me; and he who does not gather with me scatters.’ What did your heart feel as you listened? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word: Jesus was casting out a devil and it was dumb; but when the devil had gone out the dumb man spoke, and the people were amazed. But some of them said, ‘It is through Beelzebul, the prince of devils, that he casts out devils.’ Others asked him, as a test, for a sign from heaven; but, knowing what they were thinking, he said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is heading for ruin, and a household divided against itself collapses. So too with Satan: if he is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? – since you assert that it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils. Now if it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils, through whom do your own experts cast them out? Let them be your judges then. But if it is through the finger of God that I cast out devils, then know that the kingdom of God has overtaken you. So long as a strong man fully armed guards his own palace, his goods are undisturbed; but when someone stronger than he is attacks and defeats him, the stronger man takes away all the weapons he relied on and shares out his spoil. ‘He who is not with me is against me; and he who does not gather with me scatters.’ What touched your heart in this time of prayer? What did your heart feel as you prayed? What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord? Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post 3rd Thursday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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CTD4 – The Desert of Sin – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcast 28:58

2 days ago28:58

28:58

The Desert of Sin – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating In this episode, Deacon James Keating and Kris McGregor discuss the concept of the “Desert of Sin”: the idea that sin, while providing some form of consolation, ultimately leads to spiritual emptiness and turmoil. Dcn. Keating emphasizes the importance of patience in the process of personal and spiritual transformation, particularly in dealing with others who may not share the same level of spiritual fervor. He warns against the temptation to become impatient or frustrated when others do not respond as expected, stressing the need to trust in God’s timing for their conversion. Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions Reflection on the Desert of Sin: How do we recognize the mirage of sin in our lives and understand its inability to provide true fulfillment? How can we invite Jesus into our “desert” of sin to offer us real life? Patience in Personal Growth: Reflect on the virtue of patience in your spiritual journey. How can impatience hinder our own progress and potentially lead to despair? How can we cultivate patience with ourselves and others as we strive for spiritual maturity? Living Virtuously in Response to God’s Love: Consider the idea that receiving God’s love should naturally lead to loving God in return through virtuous living. How can we demonstrate our love for God through our actions and choices in daily life? Role of Saints as Models of Holiness: Reflect on the lives of the saints as mirrors of hope. How can studying their examples help us understand the path to holiness and deepen our own relationship with God? Embracing Joy through God’s Love: Explore the concept of joy as a result of receiving God’s love. How does this joy differ from superficial happiness, and how can we experience it more fully in our lives? An excerpt from “Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion” : “Any moral conversion, if it is to be real, must work its way into our minds and hearts. The conversion we undergo is one that transforms our entire person, and so our thought processes, habits, perceptions, and affections all become realigned to a new way of seeing good and evil Patience with ourselves, as well as with ohters who are also in the midst of conversion, becomes the key virtue to cultivate. God knows we are on the right track once we embrace such a conversion, and so being gentle on ourselves is not a sign of laxity or weakness of will, but a sign of wisdom. Of course, the start of a moral conversion can be dramatic and jumpstart a change, but over the long haul of life, the heart of a person must be fully cooperative; otherwise, the person will not adhere to the moral truth for long.” Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., is a professor of Spiritual Theology and serves as a spiritual director at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, MO. Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page The post CTD4 – The Desert of Sin – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-22 3rd Wednesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 2:28

2 days ago2:28

2:28

The Cross of Christ Transforms. . .Law and Love Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —How much do I love God? Seek —God’s love for us and his plans for us are greater than our minds can conceive. Starting today, acknowledge these realities by undertaking acts of trust in God throughout the day. Ask God to fill you with his love. Share God’s love with everyone. Knock —Meditate on Romans 13:8–10. Avoid getting into debt, except the debt of mutual love. If you love your fellow men you have carried out your obligations. All the commandments: You shall not commit adultery, you shall not kill, you shall not steal, you shall not covet, and so on, are summed up in this single command: You must love your neighbor as yourself. Love is the one thing that cannot hurt your neighbor; that is why it is the answer to every one of the commandments. Think about the love you owe to others. Jesus often presents the kingdom of God in terms of parables that speak of a king leaving his servants with talents to share with others. Are you giving of yourself in a way that builds up the kingdom of God? Transform Your Life —Imitate Christ or one of your favorite saints as you go about your daily activities. Plead with God to enable you to show charity to all you meet. Listen intently to those who speak to you, asking yourself what God might be saying to you through them. Give everyone, including yourself and God, the benefit of the doubt. The author of The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work. The Power of the Cross is now available as a free e-book, check out more information by going here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post PoC-22 3rd Wednesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 22: “The Law of Love” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 5:24

2 days ago5:24

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 22: “The Law of Love” Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible): Matthew 22:37-40 “Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’” Reflection: Jesus distills the entire law and prophetic tradition into two commandments: to love God and to love our neighbor. At the heart of the Christian life is this law of love—simple in words, yet profound and demanding in practice. In the Scriptures and the Christian tradition, we see that love is not a single concept but a reality with many expressions. The New Testament, written in Greek, refers to several kinds of love: philia (brotherly affection), eros (romantic or passionate love), and agape —a self-giving, sacrificial love that wills the good of the other, even when it costs us. It is this agape love that Christ speaks of and models most fully on the Cross. Agape is not about liking someone or feeling warmth in their presence. It is not contingent on emotion. It is an act of the will —a deliberate choice to love even when we are tired, wounded, or feel nothing at all. This is why Jesus can command love: not as sentiment, but as decision. St. Thomas Aquinas writes: “To love is to will the good of the other.” ( Summa Theologiae , I-II, q.26, a.4) This understanding liberates us from the tyranny of our emotions. We may not always feel loving, but we can choose to love by being patient, forgiving, and generous, especially with those who challenge us most. The Desert Fathers lived this love in the silence of the desert, but not in isolation. They knew that loving others—even the difficult ones—was the clearest path to God. Abba Dorotheus of Gaza taught: “The closer we come to our neighbor, the closer we come to God.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Dorotheus 2 ) And St. John of the Cross , in his mystical depth, offers this piercing reminder: “In the evening of life, we will be judged on love alone.” ( Sayings of Light and Love , 59) When we are hurt or weary, when love feels far from our grasp, it helps to remember: God never asks of us what He does not give the grace to fulfill. If Christ calls us to love—even enemies—it is because He Himself will sustain us in that call. As we pray today, let us not be discouraged by the difficulty of love, but strengthened in the knowledge that it is in loving—especially when it is hard—that we become most like Christ. Reflection Questions: In what situations do I find it hardest to love, and how can I choose love as an act of the will in those moments? What is one concrete way I can show agape love to someone in my life today? How can I ask God to help me grow in this self-giving love, especially in prayer? Closing Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have shown us the perfection of love in laying down Your life. Teach us to love not just in feeling, but in will—choosing always what is good and true, even when it costs us. May our love for You be visible in how we love others, and may this love become a reflection of Your heart in the world. Amen. This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent. The post Day 22: “The Law of Love” – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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3rd Wednesday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast 9:06

3 days ago9:06

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3rd Wednesday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord. Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over” Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart… From the Holy Gospel of St. Matthew 5:17-19 Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Do not imagine that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete them. I tell you solemnly, till heaven and earth disappear, not one dot, not one little stroke, shall disappear from the Law until its purpose is achieved. Therefore, the man who infringes even one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be considered the least in the kingdom of heaven; but the man who keeps them and teaches them will be considered great in the kingdom of heaven.’ What word made this passage come alive for you? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you: Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Do not imagine that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete them. I tell you solemnly, till heaven and earth disappear, not one dot, not one little stroke, shall disappear from the Law until its purpose is achieved. Therefore, the man who infringes even one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be considered the least in the kingdom of heaven; but the man who keeps them and teaches them will be considered great in the kingdom of heaven.’ What did your heart feel as you listened? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word: Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Do not imagine that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete them. I tell you solemnly, till heaven and earth disappear, not one dot, not one little stroke, shall disappear from the Law until its purpose is achieved. Therefore, the man who infringes even one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be considered the least in the kingdom of heaven; but the man who keeps them and teaches them will be considered great in the kingdom of heaven.’ What touched your heart in this time of prayer? What did your heart feel as you prayed? What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord? Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post 3rd Wednesday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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IP#353 Sally Read – Annunciation on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts 34:21

3 days ago34:21

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It was truly a delight to once again to talk with Sally Read! This time we discuss her beautiful book “Annunciation: A Call to Faith in a Broken World”. You can find the book here From the book description: Sensing the precarious nature of faith in an overwhelmingly secular world, Read, through meditation and anecdote, began writing down the compelling reasons for holding onto both God and Church. Taking the Annunciation as her template (that most fundamental yes to God), she explores common experiences of the spiritual life: His presence and invitation (And he came to her); the fears we have to let go of (Do not be afraid); the realization of our identity in God (Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord) and what our vocation might be (Let it be to me according to your word); and when God feels very distant from us (And the angel departed from her). Drawing on Scripture, lives of the saints, and the lives of people she has known personally and professionally as a nurse, Read shows how God is with us always―through suffering, spiritual dryness and depression, as well as in joyful and mystical ways. This book was inspired by a mother’s loving response to a daughter―but what has resulted is something that will speak to any believer engaged in the bliss and bewilderment of a relationship with God. Check out our previous conversation: IP#309 Sally Read – Night’s Bright Darkness on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor The post IP#353 Sally Read – Annunciation on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-21 3rd Tuesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 2:03

3 days ago2:03

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The Cross of Christ Transforms. . .How We Forgive Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —Do I still harbor past sins for which I have not accepted God’s forgiveness? Seek —Go to confession regularly. As part of your examination of conscience, review how you have accepted God’s forgiveness for past sins in your life, and review how well you have forgiven others in God’s name. Knock —Meditate on Ephesians 4:32–5:2. Be friends with one another, and kind, forgiving each other as readily as God forgave you in Christ. Try, then, to imitate God as children of his that he loves and follow Christ loving as he loved you, giving himself up in our place as a fragrant offering and a sacrifice to God. St. Paul speaks of us as “beloved children” of God. What does being a child of God require of you? How does it affect the way you treat others, who are also God’s children? Transform Your Life —Let your life be marked by being a forgiver. Realize that when you hold on to something you are making an “idol” of it, which closes God out of that part of your life. The author of The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work. The Power of the Cross is now available as a free e-book, check out more information by going here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post PoC-21 3rd Tuesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 21: “Faithfulness in the Little Things” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 3:47

3 days ago3:47