Podcasts about authentic love

Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places // Jesus and the Leper   Matthew 8:1-4 (NLT)“Large crowds followed Jesus as he came down the mountainside. Suddenly, a man with leprosy approached him and knelt before him. ‘Lord,' the man said, ‘if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean.' Jesus reached out and touched him. ‘I am willing,' he said. ‘Be healed!' And instantly the leprosy disappeared. Then Jesus said to him, ‘Don't tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed.'” John 6:37-39 (AMP)“All that My Father gives Me will come to Me; and the one who comes to Me I will most certainly not cast out [I will never, never reject anyone who follows Me]. For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but to do the will of Him who sent Me.” Romans 10:13 (NLT)“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” We are the Leper … … And Jesus has come to heal Healing is Found in an Encounter with the Authentic Love of God. We Get to Love Like Jesus  John 14:12-14 (NLT)“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!”  Matthew 10:8 (NLT)“Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received!”

Send us a textToday, I have Jason and Tina Marie Scott, certified life and relationship coaches, co-hosts of the Loving Beyond The I Do podcast, and authors of the bestselling book Manifest A Joy-Filled Relationship. With over 33 years of marriage and extensive experience in guiding couples and singles toward fulfilling, long-lasting relationships, they specialize in helping people develop emotional awareness, establish healthy communication, and create genuine, joyful connections. Today, they are here to speak on how to find authentic love and clarity in the dating world, and we'll break this down into three different subcategoriesDating with Intention: How to Attract the Right Relationship – Tips for singles to clarify what they're truly looking for and identify compatible partnersEmotional Awareness for Successful Dating – How understanding and managing emotions can improve dating experiences and lead to more fulfilling relationshipsBuilding Trust and Communication in the Early Stages of Dating – Essential strategies for establishing a strong foundation in new relationships.You can find Jason & Tina Marie Scott:https://www.instagram.com/legendaryrelationship/https://www.youtube.com/@legendaryrelationshiphttps://legendaryrelationship.com/Single? Download our dating app:https://subscribepage.io/ffO65LBuy our dating gameboard:https://p4kdatingapp.com/shop/Want some relationship advice? Leave a voice note:https://www.speakpipe.com/playing4keepsappSupport the show

Sunday, May 04, 2025

Maybe you have heard these lines: "Love should just happen." "This is just too much work." "I'm not feeling it, so it must not be true love." "I just don't feel the attraction/excitement I used to feel.  Something is wrong." Have you ever been told something so many times that you begin to doubt yourself?  You begin to believe what the other person (an upset spouse, friends, family, etc.) says -- even if it goes against what you (think you) believe. Our notions about love are like that.  And unfortunately, those romanticized notions of love are what we grow up on.  We are fed them by movies, books, songs, and culture. But Authentic Love is different.  It is not devoid of romance.  It is just not based on it.  Romanticized love is based on 4 unsustainable elements.  Authentic Love is based on 4 sustainable elements, and in your control. "I'm not feeling it" is not a reason to end a marriage.  It is a reason to reconsider the working definition of love. Don't be sucked in by the view of love in the movies, in the books, in songs, and that others around you might have.  It is dangerous, and misguided. (No, I am not against romance -- unless it is used as the "litmus test" of a relationship.  Otherwise, it is great!) Listen to the podcast below. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST: Interview with Bob Grant The Save The Marriage System

Have you ever felt that the words “I love you” fell flat or seemed insincere? In this enlightening episode of the Awakened Elevated Podcast, Lori Spagna dives deep into the nuances of expressing love. She explores why saying “I love you” can sometimes feel trite and how to ensure that these words carry the true frequency of love. Reflecting on experiences from the Conscious Life Expo and sharing personal stories, Lori offers practical wisdom on how to communicate love authentically, especially in moments of conflict or resistance.  Lori talked about: •Why saying “I love you” can sometimes feel trite or inauthentic. •The difference between love expressed from the heart versus the analytical mind. •Her personal experience at the Conscious Life Expo and how it inspired this conversation. •Practical advice on how to say “I love you” silently and still make an energetic impact. •The power of Ho'oponopono and how to use it effectively in conflict resolution. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Join us for a FREE, GIFTED MASTER CLASS:https://go.lorispagna.com/launch2 Your Best Life Ever Is Waiting For You. Ready to get unstuck? Learn to develop your intuition, awaken your spiritual gifts and extra sensory abilities, reclaim your power, embrace your divine potential, manifest your dream life and live your highest fulfillment, all while deepening your authentic, spiritual connection and making massive positive impact?It's time for you to step into a life filled with crystal clear clarity, unapologetic self confidence, unshakable inner peace, unlimited potential, vibrant energy and the abundant, prosperous dream life you are meant to have.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey everyone! Jordan and I talk about the importance of vulnerability, transparency, and the power of love. We discuss the courage and bravery required to open up to the world at one's own pace, and how being loving and spiritual is a key part of our identity. We acknowledge the difficulties of showing up vulnerably when the world has hurt people in various ways, but emphasize that true love involves acknowledging those hurtful moments and still choosing to show up with love. Lastly, we emphasize the critical role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence, and how pride can prevent people from being truly self-aware.

4th February 2025 – Michelle looks at authentic love as self-gift. God reveals man to himself and it is from God that each person derives his value and mission/purpose.  The more we reflect God, the more we become ourselves. L'articolo E170 | Pure in Heart – Michelle – authentic love as self-gift proviene da Radio Maria.

When Zach Meerkreebs finished preaching at a university chapel service February 8, 2023, he texted his wife to say he felt like his sermon hadn't gone well at all. Four hours later, he wept into a voice memo, asking her to load up their kids and head his way as soon as possible. What we now know as The Asbury Outpouring was beginning. Meerkreebs, a pastor and author, describes what it's like to be part of a supernatural movement that takes on a life of its own. He and Steve talk about the shame many preachers feel after giving sermons they feel went poorly and how Meerkreebs has learned to steward his emotions in those moments. They talk about the vulnerability of grief, how God has met Meerkreebs at various moments throughout his life, and their hopes for the discipleship of Generation Z. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Lower: Igniting Spiritual Awakening Through Radical Humility by Zach Meerkreebs The Asbury Outpouring Adrenaline and Stress: The Exciting New Breakthrough That Helps You Overcome Stress Damage by Archibald Hart The Toronto Blessing Awakenings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Zach Meerkreebs finished preaching at a university chapel service February 8, 2023, he texted his wife to say he felt like his sermon hadn't gone well at all. Four hours later, he wept into a voice memo, asking her to load up their kids and head his way as soon as possible. What we now know as The Asbury Outpouring was beginning. Meerkreebs, a pastor and author, describes what it's like to be part of a supernatural movement that takes on a life of its own. He and Steve talk about the shame many preachers feel after giving sermons they feel went poorly and how Meerkreebs has learned to steward his emotions in those moments. They talk about the vulnerability of grief, how God has met Meerkreebs at various moments throughout his life, and their hopes for the discipleship of Generation Z. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Lower: Igniting Spiritual Awakening Through Radical Humility by Zach Meerkreebs The Asbury Outpouring Adrenaline and Stress: The Exciting New Breakthrough That Helps You Overcome Stress Damage by Archibald Hart The Toronto Blessing Awakenings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“What a gift to help your partner heal wounds you didn't create” - get real about the messy, beautiful journey of accepting your partner exactly as they are, even when it triggers the fuck out of you.Fresh off their accidental holiday break (thanks Christmas chaos!), Meg and Jacob dive deep into what true acceptance looks like in partnership. From those subtle moments of trying to change your partner's essence to the profound healing that happens when you let them be exactly who they are, this conversation gets raw about the practice of loving someone's full expression - awkward dance moves, loud laughs, and all.This isn't your typical “just love them for who they are” chat - it's a vulnerable exploration of what happens when we dare to feel our own discomfort instead of trying to change our partner. Whether you're the one holding back your true self or the one secretly wishing your partner would “just dress better for family events,” this episode offers real talk about creating a relationship where both people feel free to be their messy, magnificent selves.They also riff off on:•The sneaky ways we try to control our partners•Why saying “I accept you” is the easy part•How to handle your triggers when your partner is fully expressed•Creating safety for the “little boy” energy in men•The difference between toxic behavior and authentic expression•When it's okay to speak up vs. when to practice acceptance•The gift of healing through partnershipand so much more…⚡ If you loved this episode & the podcast, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss anything.AND… it would mean the world to us if you rated & reviewed the show.We carefully read each and every review, and we love hearing about your experience with the podcast!⚡️Let's Stay Connected:IG: @the.meg.o @thejacoboneill @sexloveeverythinginbetween

Jillian Turecki, Certified Relationship Coach and author of It Begins With You: The 9 Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life, returns to the podcast to share powerful insights about the transformative power of self-awareness and personal accountability in shaping romantic connections. We explore the origins of her book and its central premise: meaningful change in relationships starts from within. Jillian discusses the mind's role as a battlefield, where unchecked narratives can lead to self-sabotage, and offers tools to overcome these patterns. She sheds light on the dynamics of modern dating, the importance of self-worth, and the delicate balance of growing individually while in partnership. Through candid reflections, Jillian addresses family influences, the necessity of speaking one's truth, and the liberating power of making peace with one's past. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, empowerment, and a deeper understanding of love's complexities. Jillian Turecki is a renowned relationship coach, teacher, author, and host of the Podcast, Jillian On Love. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity about what makes a relationship thrive, Jillian has helped thousands over the last 20 years through her teachings, courses, and writing to revolutionize their relationship with themselves so that they transform their romantic relationships. Jillian is sought out for her compassionate, direct, and very authentic style of coaching, teaching and writing. — Jillian's Book: It Begins With You: The 9 Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life https://www.jillianturecki.com/book  — Jillian's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillianturecki/  — Jillian's Website: www.jillianturecki.com  — Jillian's Podcast: https://www.jillianturecki.com/podcast  Resources: —Ready to transform your relationships? Download The Relationship Toolkit for free and learn the 5 essential skills to thrive in love and life! https://go.markgroves.com/relationship-toolkit-podcast  —Ready to stop chasing emotionally unavailable people? Download your free guide to break the cycle and call in the relationship you crave: https://go.markgroves.com/unavailable-people-opt-in-podcast  —Learn the connection between Attachment Styles, how it affects the Nervous System, AND how you can heal it: .https://go.markgroves.com/nervous-system-opt-in-podcast If you want to dive deeper into Mark's content, search through every episode, find specific topics we've covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://ask.markgroves.com Themes: Love and Relationships, Relationship Advice, Self-Discovery and Love, Personal Growth in Relationships, Hard Truths about Love, Self-Love in Romantic Relationships, Improving Communication in Relationships , Relationship Empowerment, Authentic Love, Navigating Romantic Challenges, Jillian Turecki, Relationship Expert Podcast, Love and Personal Growth Podcast, Self-Love and Relationships, Hard Truths About Love, Relationship Empowerment Tips, Finding Authentic Love, How to Create a Healthy Romantic Relationship, Jillian Turecki Relationship Advice, Nine Hard Truths About Love, Building Self-Love Before Entering Relationships, Overcoming Self-Sabotage in Love, Communication in Romantic Relationships, Growing Within a Relationship This episode is sponsored by: —Organifi: Use code CREATETHELOVE for 20% off sitewide at http://www.organifi.com/createthelove —Cozy Earth: Use code MARK for 40% off sitewide at http://www.cozyearth.com —Mighty Networks: Go to http://www.markgroves.com/mightynetworks to learn how you can create your own community! Contact us at podcast@markgroves.com for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's show features frequency alchemist, Arcturian/Andromedan/Council of 9 incarnate, embodiment of divine feminine, Cathleena Hailley (and I could list way more than this). We discuss her childhood; the inverted matrix where she gets into its tenants of enslavement, imprisonment and sacrifice; source being in all things, divine innocence, automatic writing, mind mastery, her frequency adjuster tool and authentic love... among so many other things.Her "Just Be Practice," man, it will help you ascend!Cathleena's Links:Websites:https://www.cathleenahailley.comhttps://www.frequencyadjuster.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cathleenahailley6849Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/CathleenaHailleyInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cathleenahailleyX: CathleenaHFA*Host Eden Koz is a soul realignment specialist utilizing such gifts as psychological empathy, intuition, psychic ability, mediumship, meditation, mindset shift, Reiki, dimensional and galactic healing, to name a few. She can also perform a spiritual Co#id Vac+ Healing as well as remote & face-to-face sessions with individuals and groups. Contact info for Eden Koz / Just Be®, LLC:Website: EdenJustBe.com Socials: Insta, FB, FB (Just Be), LinkedIn Just Be~Spiritual BOOM Podcast can be found on the audio directories: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa, ...

December 29, 2024Bryan Brown

What if love isn't just about finding “the one,” but about creating deeper, more meaningful connections in every area of your life? This week on This Changes Everything, Sarah sits down with Kailen Rosenberg—relationship expert, life coach, founder of The Love Architects, and author of Real Love, Right Now—to talk about how we can break through emotional barriers, heal past wounds, and build the relationships we've always dreamed of.Kailen also helps Sarah answer some listener questions, sharing her no-nonsense advice and practical tools for navigating dating, strengthening partnerships, and connecting on a whole new level. Whether you're single, in a relationship, or just curious about love, this episode is full of insights you won't want to miss.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.com/This Changes Everything Voicemail: Send in your question by calling or texting ‪(313) 338-8828‬Keep up with Kailen RosenbergWebsite: https://mylovedesign.com/Instagram: @kailenrosenbergTwitter: @kailenrosenbergSave on the perfect gift by visiting AuraFrames.com to get $35-off Aura's best-selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code TCE at checkout.Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS a free item in every box - when you go to Wildgrain.com/TCEDISCLAIMER: This podcast offers information for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a qualified mental health provider for medical or mental health concerns. The host, guests, and network disclaim responsibility for any decisions or actions you make based on information provided by this podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”What happens when faith becomes your guiding star and love transforms into a selfless act? Our conversation also delves into the essence of selfless love and the contrasting nature of modern relationships. Through personal stories, we reflect on how embracing sacrificial love leads to genuine peace and fulfillment, even amidst life's challenges. Notably, we address the struggles faced by young people in today's dating culture, where superficial encounters often overshadow the desire for authentic connections. By exploring the role of self-determination and choice, we highlight the transformative journey towards a life filled with grace, love, and meaningful relationships.(The Video-Podcast of this Episode will be made available on Rumble. For past episodes on Video visit our Rumble Channel and don't forget to subscribe!)Follow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalOn Rumble: JohnPaulIIRCCatch up with the latest on our website: jp2renew.org and Sign up for our Newsletter!!  Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.orgRead Jack's Blog substack.com/@jackrigert  Support the show

In this episode of Harder Than Life, host Kelly Siegel sits down with Coach Kavita to explore the complexities of love, dating, and self-awareness in the modern world. With over 13 years of experience coaching men to find authentic love, Kavita shares her deeply personal journey, profound insights, and practical advice for navigating the dating world. The conversation covers everything from breaking free of the "nice guy" syndrome to navigating online dating, building genuine connections, and finding self-love. This episode is filled with actionable wisdom, real-life stories, and even a few laughs that you won't want to miss.Key Takeaways:Be Authentic: Authenticity is crucial in dating. Be genuine and true to yourself to attract the right partner.Vulnerability and Emotional Safety Matter: Create and provide emotional safety in relationships by listening and being open.Balance Self-Work with Dating: Don't completely separate dating and self-growth; find a balance that allows you to connect while still growing.Online Dating Strategies: Great photos and a compelling profile can make all the difference.Avoiding Nice Guy Syndrome: Stop being overly agreeable; assertiveness and self-respect lead to better connections.“A man that cannot feel safe within himself cannot make a woman feel safe.” Coach Kavita's Links:Website: https://www.kavitacoach.com/Check out Coach Kavita's Huddle Eleven Elite Program!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dashingdate/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV-X2AGexgElmOQTmNtXo6w Chapters:0:00 - Intro & Episode Overview0:07 - Introducing Coach Kavita: Expert in Dating & Relationships2:34 - Kavita's Personal Journey and Transformations in Love11:16 - Why Is Dating So Hard?18:27 - Navigating “Nice Guy” Syndrome25:41 - Building Emotional Safety in Relationships30:28 - Online Dating Tips and Strategies39:47 - The Myth of “Focusing on Yourself” Before Dating49:04 - The Huddle Elite Program Overview58:34 - Fun Q&A: Perfect Date Night Ideas1:03:40 - Do's and Don'ts of Dating1:10:20 - Final Advice for Finding Love1:14:00 - Closing Thoughts and Takeaways Harder than Life Website: https://www.harderthanlife.com/Shop HTL merch: https://harderthanlifeshop.com/Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Harder-than-Life-Overcoming-Addiction/dp/1544539126/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2V9ID7MLAX3XX&keywords=harder+than+life+kelly+siegel&qid=1673314631&sprefix=harder+than+life%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-1Business Website: https://www.trustntm.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harderthanlife.pod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.siegel.71LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-siegel-0146a3YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCncVFeA5P2LrAovuofQQcDgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kellysiegel71

1 Corinthians 13:13Authentic love is unconditional in its expression, unselfish in its motive, and unlimited in the benefits.

Do you feel like there's a hidden part of you that's keeping you from finding love? Maybe you're avoiding deeper connections or struggling to show your true self. Don't worry, you're not alone! Nancy Bruce chats with the fabulous Junie Moon, a global love mentor and Certified Shadow Work® coach, about the magic of self-awareness and authenticity in relationships.Enter the world of shadows! Junie shares what it means to embrace those hidden aspects of yourself that can mess with your love life. Trust Junie — she knows that reclaiming these aspects are the best way to open the floodgates to let genuine connection and attracting the love we desire.Together, they explore the challenges of dating in midlife, and how to recognize your own triggers and foste self-compassion. Junie highlights the power of constructive conflict in relationships, revealing how navigating disagreements can strengthen bonds and build trust.Plus, Junie opens up about her personal journey with Shadow Work, sharing how she overcame fears and insecurities that once held her back from love. If you've ever wondered how to stop self-sabotaging or felt like your inner critic is ruining your dating life, this episode is for you!“The universe loves to give us what we need to learn.”  ✅ Come to LOVE CAMP! Learn about the retreat here: https://findinglove.co/love-camp-retreat/

Read OnlineThe Pharisees approached Jesus and asked, “Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?” They were testing him. Mark 10:2The Pharisees were not interested in the deepest truths of God. They were only interested in twisting God's truths in an attempt to prove their own self-righteousness. The question they posed to Jesus was a trap, but Jesus doesn't fall into it. He asks them what Moses taught about the love in marriage and then explains that their understanding of Moses' teaching was based on the hardness of their hearts and not the original intent of God as was revealed in the beginning.Our Church's teaching regarding the indissolubility of marriage flows from the teachings found in the Book of Genesis, subsequently confirmed and clarified by Jesus in today's Gospel. When a true marriage bond is established by the free and total consent of a man and woman, that bond can only be separated by death.From a much broader perspective, the marriage bond of which Jesus speaks also reveals to us the depth of commitment that God has made to each one of us and the reciprocal commitment He invites us to make. God's covenant offered to us is freely given, total, and irrevocable. This is important to understand. God will never change His mind when it comes to the commitment He has made to each one of us. For our part, we must continuously seek to reciprocate that commitment by giving ourselves to the will of God in the same way.Though much more could be said about this exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding earthly marriage, we must also see in this exchange a common trap that we will encounter in our marital covenant with God and our love of others. Just as the Pharisees used the law of marriage to try to trap Jesus in His speech, caring nothing about the deeper truths that this teaching revealed, we can also use the Law of God in a way that reveals our own hardness of heart. Love, be it that of marriage or the love that is the basis of our union with God, can easily be used as a weapon rather than a source of unity. Regarding others, we can easily fall into the trap of using the precepts of love as a source of manipulation and persuasion. “If you loved me, then you would…” Regarding our love of God, we can often reduce our love into a reluctant following of God's most basic laws, such as “I have to go to church.”If love is to be pure and holy, it must rise above erroneous interpretations of love and be lived in the way it was intended to be lived. Pure love is always self-giving. It is sacrificial. It always looks to the good of the other. Love is total and must be irrevocable. Love forges a bond that should never be broken. It must endure everything and is possible only when it is grounded in the love that God has for us.Reflect, today, upon the way that you love. Does the hardness of your heart lead you to misrepresent the love God wants you to share with others? Do you minimize the requirements of love? Is your love total, irrevocable, and freely given? Is your love self-seeking or self-giving? Reflect upon the pure and holy nature of the love God has offered to you, and recommit yourself to offer this same depth of love to God and to others so that the covenants that result from your love will always endure. Lord of the Covenant, Your love is perfect. It is pure, it is selfless, self-giving, total and irrevocable. Please help me to love You with this same love so that I can share in the divine marriage covenant to which I am called. May this holy love also overflow into every relationship so that You will be the foundation of those holy bonds. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: Christ among the Pharisees By Jacob Jordaens, via Wikimedia Commons

Today we're continuing our look at our core values here at Grace Christian Church. This week we're looking at our value of authentic love, we're challenged to dive deeper into what it truly means to love as Christ loved us. We see how the core of Christianity is love. At the core of who God is, is love. We're called to examine how love should determine what we say, guide how we say it, and drive us to action. This isn't just about warm feelings, but a deliberate choice we must make daily. It's not always easy to love, but we're called to love those who are difficult to love, not just our close friends or strangers, but those in-between - people who've hurt us or with whom we have tension. Communion is a reminder of the unity we're to have in the body of Christ and the commitment to love our brothers and sisters even when it's hard. Let's take steps this week to choose to love even when it's hard.   If you want help in starting this journey, please don't hesitate to reach out!   If you want to talk to someone about going deeper in your faith or starting to walk with Jesus on a daily basis, please reach out to us atoffice@graceva.com

Today we're continuing our look at our core values here at Grace Christian Church. This week we're looking at our value of authentic love, we're challenged to dive deeper into what it truly means to love as Christ loved us. We see how the core of Christianity is love. At the core of who God is, is love. We're called to examine how love should determine what we say, guide how we say it, and drive us to action. This isn't just about warm feelings, but a deliberate choice we must make daily. It's not always easy to love, but we're called to love those who are difficult to love, not just our close friends or strangers, but those in-between - people who've hurt us or with whom we have tension. Communion is a reminder of the unity we're to have in the body of Christ and the commitment to love our brothers and sisters even when it's hard. Let's take steps this week to choose to love even when it's hard. If you want help in starting this journey, please don't hesitate to reach out! If you want to talk to someone about going deeper in your faith or starting to walk with Jesus on a daily basis, please reach out to us at office@graceva.com Thanks for joining us this morning for worship!! Please feel free to comment and interact with us and others this morning! CCLI # 279146 Streaming License: CSPL092112

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”Rediscovering Identity and Authentic Love.What if understanding your true identity could transform your life? Join Jack as shares the story of a young man named Sean. Explore the biblical account of Adam and Eve's fall from grace in Genesis 3 and the original Oppressor of human freedom. Immerse yourself in a personal and spiritual journey that highlights the transformative power of faith, forgiveness, mercy, Reconciliation, and the Eucharist. Please click on the link below to support our podcast: New Easy, user friendly link!https://givebutter.com/Become-Who-You-Are"Please consider making a  financial contribution to support our work, Glory Be To God"--JackFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalOn Rumble: JohnPaulIIRCCatch up with the latest on our website: jp2renew.org and Sign up for our Newsletter!!  Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.orgRead Tom Hampson's Articles to stay up to date on substack! Read Jack's Blog substack.com/@jackrigert  Support the show

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”Is our modern world embracing a culture of death? Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Become Who You Are podcast as we explore the timeless wisdom of St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body, Audience #98. We dissect the stark contrasts between the culture of life and the culture of death, especially in the context of today's heated debates on reproductive rights and abortion at the Democratic National Convention. With the guidance of scripture and saints, we challenge the prevailing cultural narratives and reaffirm the inherent dignity and divine calling within every human being.Discover the profound beauty of love and sexuality within the sanctity of marriage, a topic often misunderstood in today's society. Modern culture tends to reduce sex to a mere physical act, neglecting its deeper emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. "Please consider making a  financial contribution to support our work, Glory Be To God"--JackFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalOn Rumble: johnpauliirc Or new on YouTube hereCatch up with the latest on our website: jp2renew.org and Sign up for our Newsletter!!  Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.orgRead Jack's Blog substack.com/@jackrigert  Support the Show.

Read Online“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:37–38At first read, this appears to be a difficult teaching of our Lord. But when properly understood, it is clear that it helps us keep our relationships with God and with our family properly ordered in charity and truth. Following this command will never result in a lack of love for family; rather, it will help us to love solely with the heart of Christ.What does this teaching of Jesus require of us? Simply put, if a family member, or anyone else, imposes expectations on us that are contrary to the will of God, then we must choose the will of God over those other expectations. To understand this more clearly, think about how one might choose to love “father or mother” or “son or daughter” more than God. Say, for example, that a child chooses to go astray in their moral or faith life, and they want their parents to support them in their sin. But the parents remain firm in their moral convictions and, out of love, offer no support for the immoral lifestyle their child has chosen. This would become especially difficult for the parents if the child becomes angry and criticizes the parents, with the claim that the parents are being judgmental and are lacking in love. What the child is actually requesting is “Mom and dad, you must love me more than God and His laws.” And if the parents do not support their child's misguided lifestyle, the relationship may be deeply wounded. Perhaps that is one of the reasons that Jesus followed this command by saying, “and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.” Love always involves the Cross. At times, it is a cross of personal self-sacrifice and self-giving. And at other times, it's a cross by which our love is misunderstood, and we are deemed as “unloving” by those we actually love the most. When parents truly love their child, they will care first and foremost for their child's eternal salvation and moral living, and they will not choose “friendship” with their child over truth. Of course, this same truth applies to every relationship we will have and even to our “relationship” to society as a whole. More and more, there are those who demand of us all that we support them in behaviors that are objectively disordered and contrary to the will of God. We are told that if we oppose these choices that some make, then we are judgmental and hateful. But this is exactly what Jesus is speaking about. If we choose to “love” others more than God and His holy will, meaning, if our first priority is to make people “feel” supported in the immoral and confused decisions they make, then we are not actually loving them at all. At least not with the love of God. Instead, we are prioritizing their sin over the truth they so deeply need to know so as to be set free and to enter into an authentic relationship of love with the God of Truth. Reflect, today, upon true love. Love is only true love when it is grounded and centered in God and every moral law He has set forth. Reflect upon your own relationships, especially with family and those closest to you. Do you love them with the pure love of God? Does your love remain firmly rooted in the will of God? Or do you, at times, choose to compromise the truths of faith and morality so as to appease the misguided expectations of others. Kindness, gentleness and compassion must always be present. But moral truth must also be just as present and must be the foundation of every virtue we exercise in our relationships with everyone. Do not be afraid to love others exclusively with the mind and heart of God. Doing so is the only way to have true love for everyone in your life so as to help save their souls. Lord of All, You call all people to love You with all of their mind, heart, soul and strength. You call us all to adhere to every truth that You have spoken. Give me the courage and love I need to not only love You above all but to also love others with Your love alone. Help me to embrace Your Cross when this is difficult so that I will be a better instrument of the love You have for all. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above:  The Exhortation to the Apostles By James Tissot, via Wikimedia Commons

An internal check to see if you are in a mental space that can foster love and connection. Daily Reels @relationships_revisited

Authentic Love by Pastor Richie Ray

Najwa is such a powerful writer that even if you don't follow her, you've likely read, shared, or saved her work before. Her belief is that we can heal through words, and you feel that when you read hers. Today she joins us to share a bit about her story, her new book “The Only Constant”, opens up about change and our resistance to it, even though - it is a guarantee. Join millions of others who follow Najwa and her work @NajwaZebian See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Regnum Christi Daily Meditation. Sign up to receive the text in your email daily at RegnumChristi.com

Elizabeth Oldfield is a writer, speaker, and advocate for intentional community living based in South London. Her work, including her book 'Fully Alive', explores the intersections of faith, culture, and ethics through a deeply personal lens.    In a world that often trivializes love and deep connections, how can we cultivate a life of wisdom, virtue, and transcendence amidst our finite existence and growing polarization?   Join John Vervaeke and Elizabeth Oldfield in a profound dialogue that explores these critical themes of human existence, drawing from Platonic to Christian thought and emphasizing the transformative power of dialogical reasoning, cognitive flexibility, and awe. Elizabeth Oldfield shares insights from her book 'Fully Alive,' an Augustinian blend of autobiographical confession and psycho-spiritual reflection that highlights relational living and the transformative power of love. The conversation addresses the trivialization of love in modern culture and advocates for a deeper understanding while navigating the complexities of polarization in politics, the comparison between psychedelic and spiritual experiences, and the intrinsic value of community and wisdom traditions in achieving a virtuous life. Discover the necessity of grounding transformative experiences in communal practices for genuine personal and societal transformation in this thought-provoking discussion. Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community! https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   Discover a profound exploration of love, wisdom, and the human soul in Elizabeth Oldfield's upcoming book, "Fully Alive: Tending to the Soul in Turbulent Times." https://www.amazon.com/Fully-Alive-Tending-Turbulent-Times/dp/1587436507   —   “I can close my eyes now and know myself's seen, and the deep knowing of the presence of love in my life and the way that every other moment of love, and encounter, and intimacy reflects that is the ground of my being.” - Elizabeth Oldfield [00:32:48]   "Wisdom is about this loving enhancement of our connectedness. The wise person can go into a complex, messy, ill-defined situation and home in on what's relevant, summoning their agency in the right way so that they are properly responsible." - John Vervaeke [00:31:04] —   0:00 Introduction to Voices with Vervaeke: Elizabeth Oldfield' 1:30  Elizabeth Oldfield: Life, Faith, and the Quest for Existential Satisfaction 2:50 Exploring 'Fully Alive': Deep Dialogues on Belonging, Soul, and Existential Satisfaction 6:05 Plato's Insights on the Psyche, Inner Conflict, and the Pursuit of Inner Fullness 10:20 The Quest for Inner Peace, Wisdom, and Understanding Sin 14:20 The Interplay of Love, Wisdom, and the Divine in the Pursuit of Fully Aliveness 27:15 Unpacking the Realization of the Really Real: Connectedness, Love, and Presence 45:50 Identity, Cultural Scripts, and the Tension between Faith and Intellect 47:45 Expanding Our Understanding of Intelligence, Reality, and the Role of Attention 1:00:40 The Challenge of Authentic Love, Reverence, and Awe in a Trivialized World  1:13:10 Reverence, Awe, and the Cultivation of Virtue on the Path to Wisdom 1:22:50 Concluding Reflections on Love, Wisdom, and the Pursuit of Fully Aliveness   —   Join the Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world. https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today. https://awakentomeaning.com/   —   Authors, Ideas, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Plato  Freud  Pascal  Dialogos  Kenosis  Thumos  Homo Inconvartis in Se  Plato's Dialogues   —   Follow John Vervaeke: https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john  https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: https://www.elizabetholdfield.com/ https://www.instagram.com/elizabethsaraholdfield https://twitter.com/esoldfield   — Thank you for watching!  

Hans Zimmer reached global fame through his film scores. He is able to describe characters in a film simply and powerfully, through music. Close your eyes and you'll know whether a hero or a villain has entered the scene. Hans lets his music talk to the audience and tell them something about the main character of the story. Did you know the church talks too, not verbally, but relationally. We're telling the world—and each other—something about the main character of the story, simply by the way we treat each other. What are we saying? Join us for the last message on Authentic Love this week at GraceLife!

A year ago we talked about why are Gen Z Christians leaving the modern church in Droves. We talk about that today and how churches need to actually listen to them. We are wondering if there has been a change. Here is an episode outline thanks to robots: Desire for Authenticity: Gen Z Christians are seeking authenticity from their church leaders. They want transparency, honesty, and genuine engagement rather than a facade of perfection. Shift from Idealized Figures: There's a recognition that the previous generation idealized their spiritual leaders, expecting them to be perfect. Gen Z Christians are challenging this notion, preferring leaders who are relatable and show their imperfections. Decline in Religious Affiliation: There's a recognition of the declining percentage of Americans identifying as Christians, indicating a shift in societal values and attitudes towards religion. Authentic Love and Acceptance: There's a discussion about the importance of authentic love and acceptance within Christian communities, especially towards individuals struggling with issues like gender identity or sexuality. Lack of authentic love may push individuals away from the church. Rejection of Sin-Based Economy: There's a critique of the traditional sin-based economy within some churches, where individuals are categorized as sinners or non-sinners. Gen Z Christians are pushing for a more nuanced understanding of sin and redemption. Transition to a Pluralistic Culture: The conversation suggests that younger generations, including Gen Z, are likely to embrace a more pluralistic worldview, leading to a lighter, more tolerant society. End of Ultra-Conservative Trends: There's speculation that the current shift towards authenticity and tolerance may signify the end of ultra-conservative trends within religious communities, particularly driven by older generations. Gen Z Christians Want Leaders to Keep It Real Christianity Today #donewiththechurch #genzchristian @thegospelcoalition #jesus @ChristianityToday #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson  threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast  https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/ The Smarticle Podast

We're grown accustomed to living in a world filled with fakes. If it sounds too good to be true, or looks too good to be real, it probably is. Search for the fine print. Wait for the other shoe to drop. Experience has made us cynical. Nothing is real. Nobody is genuine. We live in a culture of cons. But the Apostle Paul speaks a powerful word to Christians who want to make a difference in an airbrushed world. “Let love be genuine.” We're back in Romans 12 this week at GraceLife to talk about “Authentic Love.” You're invited!

Letting God fuel your Journey to Authentic Love is about learning what Love is about directly from the source rather than your personal life experience. When God is your source of pure unconditional Love, you learn how to love yourself and others better. -- ---- Subscribe to our email list on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Edtalksdaily.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ so you never miss a thing ! — What is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ed Talks Daily⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠? The Ed Talks Daily podcast is about growth in all aspects of your life. How do you solidify a holistic mindset with christ at the forefront that will lead to a healthy body, healthy relationships, and an in-tune spirit? Join me on this journey to becoming the best version of ourselves through God's word and the power of the Holy Spirit. If you want a podcast that you can relate to, a podcast that will motivate and inspire you all while educating you on ways to personally develop and grow holistically, Ed Talks Daily is for you. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/edtalksdaily/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/edtalksdaily/support

In this episode, we delve into the profound importance of self-discovery and understanding in cultivating meaningful relationships. Too often, we expect our loved ones to intuitively grasp our needs and desires without truly knowing ourselves.    But what if the key to receiving the love we crave lies in understanding and articulating our own emotional landscape?   From recognizing our love languages to understanding our attachment styles, every aspect of self-knowledge contributes to clearer communication and deeper connections.   Tune in to this enlightening episode and embark on a journey of self-discovery that not only enriches your own life but also transforms the way you give and receive love. After all, the most authentic connections are forged when we dare to be truly ourselves.   Host Information Website Instagram Podcast Instagram Resources Join the Intentional Woman Community: https://theintentionalwomancommunity.info/users/onboarding/plans?from=https%3A%2F%2Ftheintentionalwomancommunity.info%2Fspaces%2F9307310%3Fautojoin%3D1&space_id=9307310  The Intentional Woman Power Experience: https://www.livingintentionallywithtiffanyb.com/coaching   

Welcome to another episode of "Beyond the Words" with me, Dimple Thakrar! Today, join me on a journey of self-discovery as I share a profound revelation that unfolded during my recent meditation.In this episode, I open up about a moment of clarity that emerged while lying on the grass after a walking meditation. The realisation struck me deeply – I had been directing love and care towards everyone around me but was neglecting the most important person: myself.As I share this transformative experience, we explore the idea of giving ourselves permission to love and care for us with the same, if not more, dedication than we extend to our loved ones.Delving into the concept of self-love, we discuss reframing daily activities from a space of joy and authenticity. Discover the power of choosing activities not out of necessity, but as a celebration of self-love. By doing so, we become an energetic match for abundance and open the door to a more fulfilling and joyful life.This episode is not just about self-love; it's an invitation to examine how we care for ourselves and the profound impact it has on our well-being and the relationships around us.Key Takeaways:Recognise the importance of giving yourself permission to love and care for you.Explore the concept of self-love from a perspective of joy and authenticity.Reframe daily activities to celebrate and care for yourself.Become an energetic match for abundance through self-love.Embrace the journey of personal growth and holistic well-being.Thank you for joining me on this transformative exploration. Until next time, take care and stay blessed! Dimple Thakrar Resource Links: Website: https://dimpleglobal.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dimple.thakrarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dimplethakrar/

Have you ever stood at the crossroads of heartbreak and hope, wondering if the past has the power to shape your journey toward love? Ken Jocelyn and his guest, Max Trombly, weave through the labyrinth of relationships, shedding light on Max's transformative path from the ache of divorce to the embrace of a new love. Their conversation is a mosaic of personal revelations and pivotal moments that illustrate the beauty of self-awareness and the courage it takes to set boundaries and seek joy after loss.Max Trombly's candid reflections paint a vibrant picture of the ways in which childhood experiences cast long shadows over our adult connections. Together, we scrutinize the patterns formed from early traumas and chart the course toward surmounting them through intentionality and vulnerability. Whether discussing the six-week mark of new relationships or the decisive clarity required in the dating world, Max provides listeners with both a mirror and a map—inviting introspection while offering guidance grounded in his own quests for alignment and authenticity.Ending on a note of resilience and fulfillment, the episode embraces the concept of claiming love not as possession but as an affirmation of desire and commitment. Max's narrative is one of seizing life's offerings with an open heart and the wisdom gained in the healing process. This episode isn't just a story of finding love; it's a clarion call to anyone ready to foster deeper connections, urging them to embark on their own journey toward a love that resonates with who they are, and who they aspire to be. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it on social media and tag Ken Joslin.

Angie Oberg, an educator from Minden, Nebraska, is a traveler, concert-goer, reader, thinker, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Her teaching journey evolved from traditional lectures to fostering critical thinking. She emphasizes process over results, encouraging students to ask questions and engage in group discussions. Angie's Back Shelf Library initiative boosted student engagement in reading, allowing them to choose from a diverse collection of young adult novels. Her classroom promotes student agency, growth, and a love for learning, emphasizing curiosity and exploration over data-driven metrics. As she nears retirement, Angie hopes more educators can provide students with personalized, nurturing learning experiences that inspire curiosity and self-discovery.

In this episode we discuss our personal journeys of learning to embrace change, surrender control, and find peace amidst life's chaos. Sammi shares her personal struggles in motherhood, and Spencer around his need for control. We discuss the benefits of surrender, acceptance, and bringing in compassion over just trying to fix the problems. We also explore how chaos and uncertainty can teach profound lessons about unconditional love and healing. Last day for our holiday bundle HERE: https://www.yourheartfree.com/2023holidaysale (05:33 - 07:22) Embracing Acceptance and Letting Go (12:19 - 13:52) Insecurities and Control in Life (16:14 - 17:13) Unplanned Connection and Unconditional Love (21:16 - 22:29) Connecting With God (25:16 - 26:47) Facing and Healing Emotional Pain (34:21 - 35:27) Authentic Love and Motherhood Challenge (37:22 - 39:14) The Power of Love and Acceptance (44:16 - 45:40) Emotional Connection With God's Power

Welcome to "The Scrumptious Woman" podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting the incredible Kristin Wilder, a self-described pleasure Maven and transformative coach. Join us as we explore Kristin's journey from a conservative upbringing to becoming a beacon of love and self-discovery.Juliette welcomes Kristin Wilder, an inspiring figure in the world of self-discovery and transformation. Kristin's unique journey from a conservative background to embracing her true self is a testament to the power of authenticity and self-love.Key Takeaways:1. Take Your Time: Kristin emphasizes the importance of giving oneself the time and space to grow and evolve. Taking time to know oneself fully is a vital step in the journey towards authentic connections.2. Radical Honesty: Being transparent about deal breakers and non-negotiables sets the foundation for genuine connections. Knowing what truly matters to you allows for meaningful and fulfilling relationships to blossom.3. Vulnerability is Key: Trusting the process of love requires vulnerability. Opening up and sharing your authentic self fosters deeper connections and allows for true intimacy to flourish.4. Presence Over Pace: Remember to stay present in the moment. Trust your feelings and listen to your intuition. Being present helps distinguish genuine connections from fleeting encounters.5. Marriage 2.0: Embrace the idea that second chances, or in this case, "Marriage 2.0," offer the opportunity for a richer, wiser, and more joyful experience. Learn from past experiences and savor the beauty of new beginnings.6. Green Flag Dating: Kristin offers a program to navigate the complexities of dating with ease and fun. It's a guide to save time, effort, and heartache on the path to meaningful connections.In this episode, Kristin Wilder's wisdom and warmth shine through, reminding us all that embracing our true selves leads to the most authentic and fulfilling relationships. Tune in and let the journey towards self-discovery and love inspire you!Connect with Kristin Wilder on her website - https://kristinwilder.com and follow her on Instagram - https://instagram.com/wilderintimacy. Remember, love begins with you! Find out more about Juliette Karaman here: https://feelfullyyou.com/free-resources/ https://www.instagram.com/juliettekaraman/https://www.facebook.com/juliette.karamanvanschaardenburgDon't forget to Rate and Subscribe to stay updated with all of the latest shows and resources. Please leave a review so more people can tune in and the ripple effect spreads further. Take a screenshot of your review and send it to me on https://www.instagram.com/juliettekaraman/ and you will be given access to a free group Spinal Attunement session. These have been life-changing for my clients!

Eddie Corbano of Love's a Game shares the dangers of post break-up dating Episode 1932: The Dangers Of Post Break-Up Dating by Eddie Corbano of Loves A Game on Finding a Relationship Online Eddie Corbano's mission and life's purpose is to help you use your breakup or divorce to turn your life around and become the best version of yourself that you can ever be, and attract your ideal partner (your "Authentic Love") by being that new you. He gives you the tools, motivation, and inspiration to make this breakup the catalyst to become a stronger and more confident person: to break free from your ex, reclaim your emotional freedom, and live the life you are really destined to live. Take the test: how fast can you move on from your ex: http://lovesagame.com/heal The original post is located here: https://lovesagame.com/the-dangers-of-post-break-up-dating/ Visit Me Online at OLDPodcast.com  Interested in advertising on the show? Visit https://www.advertisecast.com/OptimalRelationshipsDailyMarriageParenting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Day 2159 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom The Gospel of John – 27 – What is Your A.Q. – Daily Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 08/07/2022 The Gospel of John – Part 4 Confirmation Of The Word – Agape: Authentic Love Today we continue our series, the Good News according to John the Apostle. Last week, we saw Jesus behind closed doors with His disciples as they proceeded with the Passover meal. Jesus abruptly announced that one of them would betray him. He was teaching us lessons of acceptance. How do we accept those who have hurt or betrayed us? While we may not condone another person's lifestyle because they are not living according to Biblical precepts, we are to show love and acceptance to them, regardless. As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, it bears repeating. If you claim you love Jesus, then you must also love Judas. After washing Judas's feet, placing him at the privileged position to His left at the meal, and offering fellowship to Judas by handing him food, we see that Judas's heart is unchanged. 27As soon as Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him, 30he went out, and it was night. Our scripture for today is John 13:18-30, starting on page 1674 in the pew Bible. Behind those closed doors at the Passover meal, Jesus turns to the remaining 11 disciples and teaches them of: Agape: Authentic Love. Follow along as I read. 31 When he (Judas) was gone, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified and God is glorified in him. 32 If God is glorified in him,[c] God will glorify the Son in himself, and will glorify him at once. 33 “My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come. 34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 36 Simon Peter asked him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus replied, “Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later.” 37 Peter asked, “Lord, why can't I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38 Then Jesus answered, “Will you really lay down your life for me? Very truly I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!   In 1970, Francis Schaeffer wrote The Mark of the Christian, a tiny volume with a weighty message. You will not find anything about bumper stickers, fish emblems, lapel crosses, or cleverly marketed bracelets. For that matter, you won't read a word about biblical doctrine or church membership. Instead, the book is about the one true mark of a Christian: love. ...

“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:37–38At first read, this appears to be a difficult teaching of our Lord. But when properly understood, it is clear that it helps us keep our relationships with God and with our family properly ordered in charity and truth. Following this command will never result in a lack of love for family; rather, it will help us to love solely with the heart of Christ.What does this teaching of Jesus require of us? Simply put, if a family member, or anyone else, imposes expectations on us that are contrary to the will of God, then we must choose the will of God over those other expectations. To understand this more clearly, think about how one might choose to love “father or mother” or “son or daughter” more than God. Say, for example, that a child chooses to go astray in their moral or faith life, and they want their parents to support them in their sin. But the parents remain firm in their moral convictions and, out of love, offer no support for the immoral lifestyle their child has chosen. This would become especially difficult for the parents if the child becomes angry and criticizes the parents, with the claim that the parents are being judgmental and are lacking in love. What the child is actually requesting is “Mom and dad, you must love me more than God and His laws.” And if the parents do not support their child's misguided lifestyle, the relationship may be deeply wounded. Perhaps that is one of the reasons that Jesus followed this command by saying, “and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.” Love always involves the Cross. At times, it is a cross of personal self-sacrifice and self-giving. And at other times, it's a cross by which our love is misunderstood, and we are deemed as “unloving” by those we actually love the most. When parents truly love their child, they will care first and foremost for their child's eternal salvation and moral living, and they will not choose “friendship” with their child over truth.Of course, this same truth applies to every relationship we will have and even to our “relationship” to society as a whole. More and more, there are those who demand of us all that we support them in behaviors that are objectively disordered and contrary to the will of God. We are told that if we oppose these choices that some make, then we are judgmental and hateful. But this is exactly what Jesus is speaking about. If we choose to “love” others more than God and His holy will, meaning, if our first priority is to make people “feel” supported in the immoral and confused decisions they make, then we are not actually loving them at all. At least not with the love of God. Instead, we are prioritizing their sin over the truth they so deeply need to know so as to be set free and to enter into an authentic relationship of love with the God of Truth. Reflect, today, upon true love. Love is only true love when it is grounded and centered in God and every moral law He has set forth. Reflect upon your own relationships, especially with family and those closest to you. Do you love them with the pure love of God? Does your love remain firmly rooted in the will of God? Or do you, at times, choose to compromise the truths of faith and morality so as to appease the misguided expectations of others. Kindness, gentleness and compassion must always be present. But moral truth must also be just as present and must be the foundation of every virtue we exercise in our relationships with everyone. Do not be afraid to love others exclusively with the mind and heart of God. Doing so is the only way to have true love for everyone in your life so as to help save their souls. Lord of All, You call all people to love You with all of their mind, heart, soul and strength. You call us all to adhere to every truth that You have spoken. Give me the courage and love I need to not only love You above all but to also love others with Your love alone. Help me to embrace Your Cross when this is difficult so that I will be a better instrument of the love You have for all. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2023 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.