Podcasts about daily reading

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!We've reached Day 29 of our Lenten journey, and today we dive deep into the concept of purity of heart through the Gospel story of Jesus healing the blind man. This blindness represents humanity's spiritual blindness since the Fall—a condition Christ came to heal through his incarnation, symbolized by the clay spread on the blind man's eyes.The mystical Pool of Siloe where the man washes represents baptism, opening our spiritual eyes to faith. But maintaining this spiritual sight requires vigilant protection of our purity. Four powerful resolutions guide this protection: fleeing harmful influences while seeking virtuous companions, thinking more frequently of God throughout our day, closing our eyes to what offends God, and opening them to opportunities for good.American Catholicism has historically embraced a "go along to get along" approach—understandable given the prejudice Catholics once faced but problematic in today's aggressively secular culture. The uncomfortable truth is that faithful Catholics today must be prepared to lose relationships, even with family members, to maintain their faith. Yet there are encouraging signs of revival, particularly among young Catholics who are standing firm against cultural tides with unprecedented courage.This reflection challenges us to consider whether we're truly living as disciples willing to walk the opposite way of the world. God has ordained us to live in this particular historical moment for a purpose. Will we protect our faith at any cost, recognizing that our spiritual sight depends on purity of heart?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Today's chronological Bible reading is Judges 7-8.Visit www.listentogodsword.org for our daily Bible reading schedue, answers to Frequently Asked Questions, and more. If you're benefiting from this daily podcast, please take a moment to rate and review it, and share it with a friend as well. Questions or comments, email us at info@listentogodsword.org. We'd love to hear from you. The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible, BSB is produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The mystery of the Eucharist stands at the heart of Catholic faith and worship—yet how deeply do we truly understand it? Diving into the rich theology of Christ as the Bread of Life, we explore the profound reality that in receiving Holy Communion, we encounter Jesus Himself—body, blood, soul, and divinity.Starting with the Gospel account of the multiplication of loaves and fishes, we uncover how this miracle foreshadowed the even greater miracle of the Eucharist. When Jesus declared, "I am the living bread that has come down from heaven," He wasn't speaking metaphorically but revealing a truth that would become central to Christian worship for millennia. Through careful examination of both Scripture and Catechism teachings, we explore the three-fold reality of the Eucharist: making present the sacrifice of the Cross, imparting grace to nourish our souls, and pledging future glory.Throughout history, Eucharistic belief has faced challenges—from medieval disputes to Protestant Reformation denials of the Real Presence. Yet God consistently raised up defenders like Thomas Aquinas and inspired Eucharistic miracles to reaffirm this central truth. We consider practical ways to deepen our Eucharistic devotion during Lent, including spending time in thanksgiving after Mass and revisiting catechetical teachings. As St. John Vianney reminds us, "If we realize the value of Holy Communion, the three divine persons dwell in our soul. It is a miniature heaven." Join us in rediscovering the transformative power of recognizing Christ truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Today's chronological Bible reading is Judges 4-5.Visit www.listentogodsword.org for our daily Bible reading schedue, answers to Frequently Asked Questions, and more. If you're benefiting from this daily podcast, please take a moment to rate and review it, and share it with a friend as well. Questions or comments, email us at info@listentogodsword.org. We'd love to hear from you. The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible, BSB is produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain.

The last chapter in Luke's gospel is soul stirring if we let our minds visualize the events it describes.  Let us, in our imagination, see ourselves among the disciples or among the women who came to the tomb. Meditate and let the events ‘come alive' in our thinking..  The women dedicatedly followed Jesus to the end to do whatever they could even though their ‘world' had fallen apart. And when the world today is falling apart? What of us?We read of the two who were joined by a stranger as they walked the 10km to Emmaus. They were told by him they were “slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken” [v.25] about the sufferings of the Messiah and how after that “he would enter into his glory.”  They completed their journey, it is now evening and they “urged him strongly, saying ‘Stay with us.'[v.29]The next verses are fascinating!  And “when he was at table with them he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them,. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him.  And he vanished from their sight.”   What opened their eyes? He broke the bread with his hands and gave it to them with his hands!  What hands!! And has soon as recognition ‘flashed' into their minds, he vanished!Despite the lateness of the day they surely made the return journey of 10km in record time saying “to each other, ‘Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?'”[v.32]And what of our feelings as we read the scriptures?  What motivates us to read them? Do we have a sense of urgency to understand and believe?There are a good number of Old Testament passages that are remarkable prophecies of the Messiah's coming – we can now see which applied to his first coming – and which to his second.  Do our hearts burn within us as we read them or are we “slow of heart to believe?”   Could our belief be largely academic – in our head but not in our heart?Looking back at ch.21 in Luke, there are words of Jesus that have surely been recorded for you and me, “Stay awake at all times. Praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Spiritual combat isn't primarily waged on dramatic battlefields but in the everyday moments of family life. This reflection for Day 27 of Lent examines how the home serves as our essential training ground for virtue.Drawing from St. John's Gospel account of Christ speaking about the temple of His body, we explore the parallel between Christ's suffering and resurrection and our own spiritual journey. The reading reminds us that just as Good Friday leads to Easter Sunday, our daily crosses lead to spiritual transformation when embraced properly.St. Padre Pio's wisdom resonates powerfully: "It is in the family home that we best learn to practice self-denial." Yet modern lifestyles have significantly diminished our time at home. Where generations before naturally developed patience and forbearance through constant proximity, today's families scatter to schools, workplaces, and activities. When frustrations arise, technology offers immediate escape rather than challenging us to work through relational difficulties.This Lenten reflection challenges us to reconsider our approach to family life. Are we seeing the irritations and challenges as burdens to avoid or opportunities for growth? Bishop Chevro counsels us to "stifle right away the movement of impatience that is pushing you to say something regrettable." These small, moment-by-moment choices form the real battleground of spiritual combat.As you journey through Lent, consider how your family interactions might be your most significant opportunity for spiritual growth. Practice accepting contradictions with faith, enduring others' faults with patience, and persevering in spiritual commitments despite challenges. In doing so, you'll discover that the cross leads not just to suffering, but ultimately to resurrection.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

In this conversation, Brett McCollum interviews Dennis Henson, a seasoned real estate investor with over 55 years of experience. They discuss Dennis's journey in real estate, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Dennis emphasizes the importance of motivation, daily reading, and leaving a legacy through writing. He shares insights on how to overcome obstacles in business and the power of forming positive habits. The conversation culminates in Dennis promoting his book, 'Real Impact Daily Inspiration', which aims to inspire and motivate readers.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Today we read of Jesus on the Cross. “The chief priests and the rulers and the people” [Luke 23 v.13] opposed Pilate's decision to release him so he gave in and “delivered Jesus over to their will.” He is crucified between two criminals and one of these derides him saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us,” but the other rebukes him and says, “we are receiving the due reward for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong”[v.39,41] Then he makes a request to Jesus which, together with Jesus' answer, is widely misunderstood.He says, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom'. And Jesus says to him, ‘Truly I say to you today, you will be with me in paradise.' “[v.42,43] We have quoted exactly as in the Bible (ESV) with one little exception, we have put the comma after the word ‘today' instead of before it. The original Greek has no punctuation so translators use their own judgement as to how to punctuate the text when rendering it in English – or any other language – and nearly all of them get it wrong in this verse.The question the criminal asked indicates he knew the teachings of Jesus but had turned to bad ways: maybe he learnt the prayer Jesus taught, ”Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth …” [Matt.6 v.10].The word ‘paradise' means a garden, a park – the Garden of Eden was a paradise. The whole world will become the Garden of Eden when Jesus sets up God's kingdom'. Jesus promised, “to the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.” [Rev. 2 v,7].It is obvious that Jesus is not referring to heaven when he made this promise. After he came out of the tomb he said to Mary Magdalene, “I have not yet ascended to the Father” [John 20 v.17]. The criminal re-established his relationship with Jesus because of his faith – and for that reason he received this promise of a place in the paradise of God's kingdom. He had remarkable faith in the future that awaited Jesus when the disciples had lost theirs!A closing thought is to note the mistake some make in saying that since this repentant criminal was not baptised – baptism is not essential. They forget that baptism is a symbol of the death and resurrection of Jesus as Paul makes plain in Romans 6 v. 3-8. Baptism became essential after the resurrection of Jesus. Those who only knew the baptism of John had to be rebaptised (see Acts 19 v.3-5) The whole world is to become a paradise! What wonders await all who will be with Jesus then! Will you be with him in paradise?. 

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Rejoice! Even in the midst of Lenten discipline, the Church invites us to pause and glimpse the joy waiting on Easter morning. Laetare Sunday—marked by rose vestments replacing the penitential purple—arrives precisely when many of us have settled into the rhythm of our Lenten commitments but might need encouragement for the journey ahead.This episode explores the profound spiritual wisdom behind this "joy Sunday" that occurs right at Lent's midpoint. Drawing from St. Thomas Aquinas, we examine how true Christian joy flows naturally from growing charity in our hearts. As we've weakened the "old man" in us through three and a half weeks of spiritual discipline, we've simultaneously strengthened our union with God—and that itself becomes a legitimate source of joy. The challenges of modern living receive particular attention as we discuss how today's "argument culture" conditions faithful Catholics toward defensiveness and contention. Social media, news cycles, and even family gatherings have become battlegrounds where we feel constantly compelled to fight for our beliefs. While defending truth remains essential, this episode offers a gentle correction: "We can't fight for everything." Instead, Laetare Sunday calls us to foster joy by focusing on the graces we've received rather than dwelling on negativities.Practical resolutions round out our discussion: making Sundays truly restful, improving our thanksgiving after Communion, avoiding unnecessary arguments, and turning away from what traditional wisdom calls "birds of ill omen"—those constant sources of bad news and apocalyptic predictions that rob us of peace. In our digitally connected age, this might mean logging off Twitter, stepping away from news consumption, and getting outside with loved ones.Ready to reclaim genuine Christian joy amid your Lenten journey? Listen now and discover why St. Francis de Sales famously said, "A sad saint is a sad excuse for a saint."Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

What a challenging statement that is, “all who hate me love death”! It is the final statement in Proverbs ch. 8, a chapter which begins with the question, ”Does not wisdom call?”. Call? – this is a Hebrew word that occurs 16 times in Proverbs, for example, 1 v.24 :”I have called and you refused to listen.”In today's chapter, it is followed by the parallel question, “Does not understanding raise her voice?” How many fail to understand, especially today; even try to understand the reason for life, what it is all about!This remarkable chapter personifies “wisdom” as a person who is totally wise in the way they live their lives. “My mouth will utter truth” says wisdom, “wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are righteous, there is nothing crooked or twisted in them.”[v.7,8]Wisdom has a sister called ”Prudence” – a word which the dictionary defines as the quality of being foreseeing and discreet – and so in v.12 we read, I wisdom dwell with prudence and I find knowledge and discretion” as a result.The next verses say, “The fear (awe) of the LORD is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate. I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength. By me kings reign and rulers decree what is just” Is there a ruler who can be described in this way now? Even Solomon in his old age faltered.In the New Testament James states that, in contrast to human wisdom, “the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” [3 v.17] . Jesus is the embodiment of wisdom and one day soon he will return from his Father's side to reign with true wisdom and those who have loved wisdom will rejoice and receive “fruit” because of their love.The final quotation we will select is “My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold … granting an inheritance to those who love me … [v.19,21] And what an inheritance! In contrast – remember how the chapter ends, “all those who hate me love death” Of course they do not “love” death” but because they turn their back on wise thinking and doing – in God's eyes they “love death.” There is no ‘in between' position in life, it is either the broad way or the narrow way! How increasingly uncomfortable it must be to try to ‘walk' having a foot on each path! Too late – it is realised it is impossible! God is calling – are you really listening?

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What happens when mercy meets judgment? The Gospel story of the woman caught in adultery offers a masterclass in Christ's approach to sin and sinners. When the Pharisees brought a woman before Jesus, demanding her stoning according to Mosaic Law, they thought they had created the perfect trap. Instead, Jesus turned their judgment back on them with his famous words: "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone."This powerful Lenten reflection explores how Jesus models the perfect balance between acknowledging sin's gravity while showing compassion toward sinners. Contrary to popular perception, Jesus wasn't treating sin lightly when He refused to condemn the adulterous woman. Rather, He hated sin so profoundly that He became incarnate specifically to take it upon Himself. His mercy toward the sinner exists alongside His uncompromising stance against sin itself—a nuanced position we struggle to maintain today.Perhaps surprisingly, our modern challenge isn't that we judge too much, but that we've abandoned proper judgment altogether. We're called to distinguish between judging actions (which we should do) and condemning persons (which we shouldn't). This principle applies especially to Church leaders, whom we can hold accountable without assuming malicious intentions. As Thomas à Kempis wisely notes, "In judging others, we expend energy to no purpose... but if we judge ourselves, our labor is always to our profit." The most effective way to change the Church isn't through bitter criticism of others but through personal transformation. Join us for this challenging Lenten meditation that calls us to examine our hearts and extend to others the same mercy we so readily seek for ourselves.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Foreboding is not a word we use much these days; the dictionary says it means – ‘have a premonition of something evil or harmful.' Jesus used it (as translated by the ESV) in our reading today [Luke 21 v.26]; he forecast that just before he returns to earth there will be, “distress of nations in perplexity … people fainting with fear and foreboding of what is coming on the world.”In our younger days there was optimism that even better times were coming because of the new inventions in many areas. This was not just in the things we buy for our homes, but the better fertilisers and increasing productivity. Clever scientists and inventers were making life better and better – and when Communism collapsed as the Berlin wall came down in 1989 it seemed the world was entering a new golden era of peace and prosperity. How dramatically the scene has changed since then – still greater changes are threatening now; all for the worse.As we read Numbers Ch. 11 today we saw some comparisons. The Israelites had had a wonderful and miraculous deliverance from captivity in Egypt. There was a “honeymoon” period at Mt Sinai and a special tabernacle was built using the gold they had taken from the Egyptians. Then “manna,” the bread from heaven, was provided as their staple food.But today's chapter starts, “And the people complained about their misfortunes … oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions …”[v.1,4,5]. Today's world has so many who are ready to complain about anything that is not just as they want it !Two hundred years ago nearly everyone believed in a Creator as the source of all things. One hundred years ago, the majority of people still believed this but today a large majority have turned their backs on the God of the Bible. Man is now his own ‘god.' What happened to the self-centred Israelites in the wilderness will have its parallel to the 21st Century as people faint “with fear and foreboding” and distress and perplexity becomes overwhelming.Our Proverbs' chapter again has valuable advice, “Keep my commandments and live … call insight your intimate friend” [v.1,4].Insight! Inward vision in your heart of the real meaning of life (and Easter) is the antidote to being full of foreboding about what is coming on the world, only God's word provides the right “food” for seeking hearts..

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The journey of faith isn't meant to be a solitary one. Through the compelling story of the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, we discover a profound truth about our own spiritual lives: genuine faith naturally overflows into apostolic action.When Jesus speaks of "living water" to this woman, He's referring to the gifts of the Holy Spirit that purify, sanctify, and bring salvation. What happens next is remarkable - upon recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, she immediately leaves her water jar behind to share the good news with others. She becomes an apostle without hesitation, without extensive training, without a theology degree.This spontaneous evangelization reveals something essential about authentic faith: it naturally seeks to spread. As St. Margaret Mary reminds us, "I must be all divine, all love, and then I will be able to light others with this fire." Our primary apostolate comes not through elaborate arguments or perfect knowledge, but through charity and good example that attracts others to the divine flame within us.Being "visibly Catholic" in today's world requires courage - the willingness to pray publicly, abstain from meat on Fridays, or simply live differently than the surrounding culture. These small acts of faithfulness create natural openings for deeper conversations. As we progress through this Lenten season, let's embrace our call to be everyday apostles, combating our desire for human respect and instead boldly living out our faith in ways that make others curious about the source of our hope. Join us in exploring how the simplest acts of faith can become the most powerful form of evangelization.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Our Proverbs (Ch.6) reading calls for reflective meditation. “My son keep your father's commandment and forsake not your mother's teaching . Bind them on your heart always … when you walk they will lead you …. They will talk with you.”[v.20-22] Are mother's and father's fulfilling their responsibility today? A teaching technique is needed that so fixes words of vital advice in the hearer's heart that “they will talk” in their minds when the need arises.But are children listening today? Attitudes in many parts of the world discourage children from being guided by their parents; of course, if parent's provide no wise guidance, that adds to the tragedy. When children today become parents most see their responsibility as providing food, bed and clothing and sending them to school to be educated. All very good and necessary but Solomon says, “the reproofs of discipline are a way of life.” [v.23]The result of a failure provide disciple when necessary leads, says Solomon, to “a worthless person, a wicked man (who) goes about with crooked speech, winks with his eyes …” [v.12,13] Life to such is a sort of game to be played! The way many (especially young people) live today is starting to reflect the point Solomon is making here.Solomon then goes on to say that a “perverted heart devises evil, continually sowing discord; therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in a moment he will be broken beyond healing.” [v.14,15] Is not this prophetic, in a sense, of the fate awaiting our 21st Century's way of life!?Ch. 7 begins with this advice from Solomon to the rising generation, “keep my words and treasure up my commandments and live” The ultimate kind of living for those who do this and accept a divine relationship – and the responsibility of that relationship – is described in the words of Jesus we read today in Luke ch. 20. “Those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, for they cannot die anymore, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection” [v.35,36]Above all else we do in life, let us heed our Heavenly Father's instruction.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Halfway through our Lenten journey, we encounter perhaps the most challenging spiritual practice of all - forgiveness. Drawing from Luke's Gospel where Jesus heals the sick with his touch, we explore how Christ serves as the divine physician for our spiritually ailing souls. Just as he prescribes humility for pride and meekness for anger, Jesus offers us healing – but with an important condition.The key to receiving divine healing lies in our willingness to "forgive from the bottom of our heart all offenses we have received." This echoes the Lord's Prayer where we ask God to forgive us as we forgive others. The spiritual mathematics is simple yet profound: the measure we use for others will be used for us. This creates urgency to uproot all animosity, resentment, and bitterness before they harden our hearts beyond repair.Modern life has made forgiveness increasingly optional. Unlike our ancestors who lived in interdependent communities where reconciliation was necessary for survival, we can easily avoid those who've wronged us. We purchase goods from anonymous sources and maintain superficial relationships that never require the vulnerability of true forgiveness. But this convenience comes at a steep spiritual cost. Perhaps even harder than forgiving others is asking for forgiveness - our pride often prevents us from admitting wrongdoing, causing us to become defensive rather than humble. As St. Vincent de Paul reminds us, "Nothing pleases God without charity," especially when we acknowledge our shortcomings and reconcile with our neighbors. Will you join me in praying for those who've hurt us, learning to ask forgiveness sincerely, welcoming others' requests for reconciliation, and preventing bitterness from taking root in our hearts?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Our world likes to talk about peace. We cannot recall a time when there has not been talks about the need for peace in some situation, often many situations. At the end of world wars “peace” is declared! But is “peace” simply a cessation of hostilities?No it is not, well not from the divine perspective. We read in today's 19th chapter of Luke how Jesus came down the mount of Olives (v.37) and “the whole multitude of his disciples (not just the 12) began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! …. And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, ‘Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.”The challenge for each one of us is to know “the things that make for peace” – for real peace. We recall what we read in ch. 2 of the song of the heavenly host to the shepherds, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is well pleased”[v.14] The old A V translation does not render the Gk adequately when it has “ …on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”If the Jews had accepted Jesus as their Messiah there would have been real peace, for Jesus would have taken his God given power to humble the nations and reign. That is still to happen, that is the hope of the world, although so few know it, but as this world gets more desperate about its' future how vital it will be to have that hope.Our thoughts went back to the first chapter in Luke and the inspired prophecy of Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist that “you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways … to guide our feet into the way of peace.” [v.79] Those who responded from the heart to John's message became followers of Jesus and were taught “the way of peace”. The followers of Jesus taught that ”way of peace” after he ascended to heaven.Ponder what Paul wrote to the Philippians, “…. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” [4 v.6,7] Only the Scriptures show us “the way of peace” and “the things that make for peace.”

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What happens when those meant to guide us spiritually become sources of our deepest wounds? Today's powerful Lenten reflection tackles the challenge of maintaining goodwill when facing disappointment within the Church itself.Beginning with the Gospel account of the Pharisees challenging Jesus about handwashing, we explore the timeless problem of religious hypocrisy – honoring God with lips while harboring corrupt hearts. Jesus' rebuke echoes through centuries, speaking directly to our modern struggles with institutional faith.The meditation candidly acknowledges the pain many traditional Catholics experience: "We're spiritually abused children of the church." This raw honesty frames the central struggle – how to remain joyful in faith when those who should nourish it seem to undermine it instead. Unlike martyrs facing brief but intense persecution with heaven clearly in view, today's faithful endure what feels like an endless tunnel of disappointment without knowing if or when conditions might improve.Yet within this struggle lies our spiritual challenge: maintaining magnanimity and eutrapelia (good humor) despite circumstances that naturally breed bitterness. The reflection offers practical resolutions for combating ill will: focusing on goodness rather than flaws, struggling against despair by celebrating whatever good remains, bringing pleasantness to our environments, and avoiding hasty judgments.Most powerfully, we're reminded that the Church, though currently "sick," remains Christ's bride and body. Our response to this sickness should not be bitterness but hopeful perseverance. As we approach the halfway point of Lent, consider how you might cultivate goodwill even when facing spiritual disappointment. Can you find joy in your faith today, especially in the places where it seems most difficult?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Today's 4th chapter of Solomon's Proverbs alerts us to the responsibility of fathers. It starts, “Hear. O sons, a father's instruction, and be attentive … “ It is clear that David, the father of Solomon had seen in him a responsive spirit and taught him the ways of God. This led David to name Solomon as his successor (see 1 Kings 1 v.13,17,28-30) despite the efforts of other and older sons to claim the kingship as David was about to die.Solomon writes, “When I was a son with my father … he taught me and said to me, ‘let your heart hold fast to my words; keep my commandments and live. Get wisdom, get insight … do not turn away from the words of my mouth”[v.3-5] Solomon goes on to write advice to his son, “Hear, my son, accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness. When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her; for she is your life.” [v.10-13]But Solomon's son Rehoboam, did not listen so as to remember his father's words, they did not stay in his heart and we read of the tragedy of his lack of wisdom when he succeeded his father in 2 Chron. 10 v.8-13 in rejecting wise counsel. This is reflected in Proverbs 1 v.25,26 “because you have ignored all my counsel and would have none of my reproof, I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when terror strikes you …”We see these words as also having a final application in our days as the whole world ignores God's counsel, despite his word being available in every language! Solomon writes in ch.15, “The eyes of the LORD are in every place; keeping watch on the evil and on the good. A gentle tongue is a tree of life … whoever heeds reproof is prudent.” [v.3-5] Let us heed God's word!Finally we noted the words of Jesus about the ones that God “draws (to) him. And I will raise (them) up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.' Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me…”[John 6 v.44,45] Have we learned? Let us be taught – from God's word.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The Sacred Heart begins to beat. The Word becomes flesh. Heaven touches earth in the womb of a virgin. The Annunciation marks that singular moment when God's redemptive plan dramatically unfolds through Mary's simple yet profound "yes."Today's meditation focuses on Mary's fiat—"Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Be it done unto me according to thy word"—exploring how her lifelong habit of faithfulness prepared her for this cosmos-altering moment. We discover that sanctification hinges not on grand gestures but on consistent fidelity to grace in life's smallest details. As Saint Bernadette reminds us, whatever trials or sacrifices God may ask, we're called to respond with Mary's loving surrender.The true marvel emerges when we explore the Golden Legend's revelation about March 25th throughout salvation history. This single date witnesses Adam's creation and fall, Cain's murder of Abel, Melchizedek's offering, Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac, John the Baptist's beheading, and according to tradition, Christ's crucifixion. J.R.R. Tolkien, recognizing this profound pattern, deliberately chose March 25th for the Ring's destruction in his epic mythology. This cosmic symmetry—where humanity's beginning, fall, and redemption align on a single date—reveals God's meticulous authorship of salvation.How might your daily "yeses" transform your spiritual journey? Join us in celebrating this extraordinary feast by attending Mass if possible, praying the Angelus at noon and 6pm, and perhaps substituting today's Rosary with the Joyful Mysteries in honor of this momentous event when divinity clothed itself in humanity, setting in motion our redemption.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

In Numbers we read that the establishment of Israel as an organised nation is now complete. It had been just over a year since they escaped from Egypt; the 10 commandments and other laws had been given, the tabernacle had been made and erected and is now ready for use. The priesthood. led by Aaron, had been appointed,Our chapter (6) today concludes in a very significant way. “The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, ‘Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them,The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”This was a very special blessing, for they were about to celebrate the Passover of their deliverance from Egypt for a second time and then move forward toward the promised land – the land promised to their forefathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.Read the words of this blessing again, encouraging words to stimulate positive thought that the LORD is with you. It is a most interesting phrase – to: “make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you”. David makes reference to this no less than 7 times in his Psalms. Moses, we know, “knew God face to face” [Deut.34 v.10], a relationship specially created, the outcome of 40 days in the presence of God on the mountain top.Our heavenly Father seeks a personal relationship with us through His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” [John 14 v.9] Jesus represented the Father who himself “dwells in unapproachable light, whom no-one has ever seen or can see.” [1 Tim. 6 v.16].We normally sing these words in seeking the LORD's blessing when someone takes on the name of Christ through baptism. They have intense meaning to illustrate the wonder of the relationship God expects us to have with him when we become a brother or sister of His Son. We must remember them throughout our lives, being conscious of the way so many of the people of Israel failed to be conscious of them when they faced challenges in the wilderness. May the Lord bless and keep all of us who travel in faith through the increasingly barren wilderness of life today.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What happens when pride confronts the simplicity of God's healing? The ancient story of Naaman washing in the Jordan River provides a powerful metaphor for our Lenten journey and approach to confession.We're approaching the halfway mark of Lent, and today's reflection invites us into a deeper understanding of the Sacrament of Penance through the lens of Naaman's healing. This Syrian general, accustomed to honor and recognition, initially rejected the prophet's simple instruction to wash in the Jordan seven times. His indignation mirrors our own resistance to spiritual practices that seem too humble to bring transformation. Yet when he finally submitted, complete healing followed.This narrative brilliantly illuminates how we should approach confession – not with reluctance or skepticism, but with the faith St. John Vianney describes as recognizing "God present in the priest," the hope that believes in God's pardoning grace, and the charity that places in our hearts regret for having offended divine love. The daily examination of conscience becomes our practical tool for preparation, helping us identify patterns that reveal the shape of our soul and highlighting areas needing correction.As St. Padre Pio reminds us, the Lord awaits us with "infinite tenderness" in the Sacrament of Penance. If your Lenten practices have faltered, now is the perfect moment to renew your commitment. Incorporate a nightly examination into your routine, work against your predominant fault, and approach confession with humility. The healing waters of God's mercy are waiting – will you step in?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Honesty seems to be an increasingly rare commodity in the 21st Century. Cheating the Govt at least a little is a common practice. The shop assistant is astonished, but pleased, when one hands back money when you have been given too much change after making a purchase!We read today a parable Jesus told about a manager who worked for a rich man and who was doing his job poorly and “wasting his possessions” [Luke 16 v.1]. This man had his mind fully set on this life and when he learnt he was going to lose his job he began “summoning his master's debtors one by one”[v.5]. He comes to an arrangement with them to reduce the records about how much they owe his Master: this will obligate them to give him some support when he loses his job.The rich man commends “the dishonest manager for his shrewdness” saying, “for the sons of this world are more shrewd in their dealing with their own generation than the sons of light” [v.8]. It appears to be a cynical observation and is followed by a strange statement, “And I tell you make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into eternal dwellings.” [v.8,9]The point Jesus is making is that the “eternal dwellings” of the unrighteous are their tombs – and some elaborate tombs have been found by archaeologists, including the tomb of the High Priest's family – a miniature replica of the Temple. This is the only future they will have because they have made money (and the things it can buy) their main objective in life. Note Jesus' words, “One who is dishonest in very little is also dishonest in much. If you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” [v.11]Our Lord's final point is “You cannot serve God and money.” [v.13] We then read; “the Pharisees, who were lovers of money heard all these things and they ridiculed him. And he said to them, ‘You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts.” [v.14,15] They were blind to the reality of the all-seeing eyes of God. We must not be blind in this way, or in any spiritual sense, being honest and true in our thinking in much more than money.]

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The battle against impurity might be the most crucial spiritual struggle of our time. In this Lenten reflection, we explore what St. Gregory the Great called "the most common cause of man's damnation" – the devil of impurity that seeks to transform souls from spiritual beings into carnal ones, degrading human dignity below even that of animals.When children as young as eight are being exposed to pornography, we must recognize the urgency of this fight. The beatitude "Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God" reminds us what's at stake – our very capacity to encounter the divine. Through practical wisdom from tradition and modern application, this reflection offers a roadmap for maintaining purity in a world designed to compromise it.The sacraments provide our strongest defense – Confession heals wounds already inflicted while the Eucharist strengthens our spiritual immune system against future attacks. Yet the enemy is clever, using shame to keep us from confession while removing it during the act of sin itself. We must be "ashamed of the sin, but not of admitting the sin."Beyond supernatural means, practical strategies matter: implementing technological safeguards, carefully selecting media, avoiding occasions of sin, practicing custody of the eyes, and eliminating idleness – "the mother of all vices." The battle begins not in society but in our own hearts and homes, creating environments where innocence can flourish and virtue is celebrated.Join us this Lent in recommitting to purity of heart. Share your own strategies for maintaining dignity in a challenging world, and remember that this fight isn't about prudishness but about preserving our capacity to see God clearly, both in this life and the next.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Solomon's proverbs begin with a very telling chapter on the need “to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in …”[v.2,3] It is a most appropriate message for all those who are in awe of God, “let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance” [v.5] writes Solomon.Verse 7 states a vital principle, “ the fear (awe) of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” How vital to be in awe of the mightiness of the Creator of all that exists and aware of his all-seeing presence.Solomon asks two “How long?” questions! First he says, “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple?” [v.22] How are we to understand ‘simple?' It has the sense of failing to understand the meaning of life. Solomon later makes the point, “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” [22 v.3]Solomon's second question is, “How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge?” The knowledge he is talking about is “the knowledge of God”. The first 5 verses of chapter 2 describes the difficulty of acquiring “the knowledge of God” – most challenging verses we need to read and meditate on!The way Solomon describes the state of mind of scoffers precisely fits the attitudes of many today. “I have called and you refused to listen, have stretched out my hand and no one has heeded, … you have ignored all my counsel …” [v.24,25] So “How long” will God allow this to continue? It reminds us of the words of Jesus, “O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you?” [Matt 17 v.17]God causes Solomon to write, “because you have ignored all my counsel {today we can say, ignored the Bible} “I also will laugh at your calamity … when terror strikes you like a storm and your calamity comes like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come … then they will call upon me, but I will not answer” [v.25-28]Finally, the last verse tells us, “but whosoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.” Let us listen, let us read and pay close attention ‘hiding' God's word in our hearts – Psalm 119 v.10-16..

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The powerful parable of the Prodigal Son offers us a profound invitation to examine the quality of our repentance this Lent. As we reflect on this wayward son who squandered his inheritance in "riotous living" only to return humbled and broken, we're challenged to consider: Do our confessions truly lead to conversion?St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests who spent up to 18 hours daily hearing confessions, offers us this sobering insight: "There are many who go to confession and few who convert." Even in 19th century France, with its deeply Catholic culture, the Curé of Ars recognized that many approached the sacrament without true contrition. How much more relevant is this warning today? We can easily fall into treating confession as having a "revolving door," presuming on God's mercy while secretly planning to return to the same sins. True repentance requires not just acknowledgment of sin but a firm resolution to amend our lives.Yet there's profound hope in this message too. St. John Vianney also reminds us that "God forgives a repentant sinner faster than a mother snatches her child from the fire." When our contrition is genuine, God's forgiveness is immediate and complete. This Lent presents the perfect opportunity to deepen our approach to confession and extend our spiritual focus outward by praying for someone who needs to experience reconciliation with God. Prayer and fasting often accomplish what our best arguments cannot. Who might return to God's embrace through your dedicated prayer this Lenten season?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Envying the spotlight rather than the possessions—this reflection reveals how our digital age has transformed an ancient sin into something more insidious. Four weeks from Good Friday, we journey through scriptures that parallel Joseph's betrayal by his brothers with Christ's rejection by the Pharisees, discovering that at their core, both stemmed from the same deadly sin: envy of another's status and position.Our social media landscape has engineered this sin to operate on an unprecedented scale. Each notification, each like, each follower count directly feeds our craving for human respect and validation. The reflection candidly acknowledges how even creating spiritual content isn't immune to these temptations—the pressure to craft clickable titles, engaging thumbnails, and discussion-generating topics that prioritize audience engagement over authentic spiritual purpose.This meditation challenges us to combat envy through deliberate action: performing acts of service that truly cost us something—not necessarily money, but time, effort, and comfort—while intentionally receiving no recognition for them. These hidden sacrifices directly counter our cultural obsession with being seen and appreciated. As we approach the commemoration of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, what better spiritual practice than to serve others without the dopamine hit of public acknowledgment? Take this weekend to perform one meaningful act that no one will ever attribute to you, and experience the freedom that comes from breaking the chains of comparison and validation-seeking. What will you do in secret to prepare your heart for Easter?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The striking parable of the rich man and Lazarus serves as our Lenten meditation today, challenging us to reconsider what constitutes true wealth. While the rich man enjoyed every comfort and ignored the beggar at his gate, their eternal fates revealed a profound reversal – Lazarus carried to heaven by angels, the rich man cast into torment.This powerful story exposes uncomfortable truths about our modern American lifestyle. Most of us live with material abundance unimaginable throughout human history, yet we've become remarkably stingy with our time, possessions, and affection. We hesitate to lend a $20 book for fear it might come back damaged. We splurge on premium coffee when that extra money could help someone in need. Our reluctance reveals how deeply materialism has penetrated our hearts, even when we consider ourselves people of modest means.The meditation reminds us that Christ himself – the King of Kings – chose poverty during his earthly life. Not that poverty itself is inherently virtuous, but detachment from possessions creates space in our souls for what truly matters. As Bishop Chevrot wisely notes, "The man who spends money right and left damages not only his own interests but the interests of others." Our Lenten journey calls us to examine where our treasure truly lies, to become less dependent on consumer comforts, and to open ourselves to genuine generosity. Through prayer, mindful choices about our resources, and heartfelt giving, we can cultivate the spiritual riches that ultimately open heaven's door. What simple acts of generosity might transform your Lent today?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The paradox of Christian suffering stands at the heart of our Lenten journey. Through Christ's prediction of His Passion, we confront a profound spiritual reality: suffering, while an evil in itself, becomes transformative when embraced for the right purpose.Our natural instinct rebels against pain. Modern society encourages us to eliminate all discomfort, creating what we might call an "effeminate" mindset—not feminine, but comfort-seeking and pain-avoiding. Yet Christ's invitation remains unchanged: "If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." This call often confounds us as much as it did the apostles who abandoned Jesus despite His clear warnings.Navigating between extremes helps us understand suffering's true purpose. On one hand, prosperity gospel teachings suggest Christians shouldn't suffer because Christ suffered for them—missing our participation in redemption. On the other, Catholics can sometimes appear to value suffering for its own sake, which misses the point entirely. As Father Troadec reminds us, suffering "does not deserve to be loved for its own sake" but only as a means to "the redemption and sanctification of souls." This transforms our trials from meaningless pain into spiritual currency, for "souls are not given away. They are bought at the price of suffering."Perhaps most practically, today's meditation challenges us to stop complaining—especially about trivial matters like weather—while fellow Christians worldwide face genuine persecution. Our complaints reveal our rejection of the Cross rather than its embrace. By accepting small sufferings without grumbling, we train ourselves for weightier crosses ahead and participate in Christ's redemptive work. What suffering might you offer up today for the salvation of souls?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Humility—the forgotten foundation of spiritual growth. While most spiritual teachings warn against pride, far fewer emphasize cultivating its counterpart. Yet as we discover in this profound Lenten reflection, humility isn't merely the absence of pride but the essential virtue that makes all other virtues possible.Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, we examine the stark contrast between the prideful Pharisees and Christ's humble disciples. What made the difference in their ability to recognize Jesus as the Messiah? The answer lies in that first, crucial disposition of soul: humility. As we learn from the beautiful examples of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and countless saints throughout history, humility becomes not a path to insignificance but the very "gateway of salvation."The wisdom of Saint John Vianney resonates throughout our discussion: "Humility is to the other virtues what the chain is to the rosary. Take away humility and all of the virtues disappear." This profound insight reveals why pride is so dangerous—it doesn't merely exist alongside other virtues but actively corrupts them from within. Through practical resolutions and reflections on the challenging Litany of Humility prayer, we discover tools for cultivating authentic humility in our daily lives. But beware—when you pray to be delivered from the desire for recognition and approval, God might just answer that prayer in unexpected ways! Are you ready to embrace true humility this Lenten season?Listen as we explore this essential spiritual practice and prepare for tomorrow's reflection on the Christian meaning of suffering. Together, let's follow Christ's perfect example of humility through his passion and discover the freedom that comes from releasing our grip on pride.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Today's Lenten meditation invites us into the profound mystery of divine indwelling—God's continuous presence in the soul of every baptized Christian in a state of grace.Drawing from John 8:29, we explore Christ's promise that just as the Father never left him alone, he never leaves us orphaned. This isn't merely poetic language but a spiritual reality that transforms our understanding of ourselves. As St. Peter teaches, through baptism, we become "partakers of the divine nature," genuine children of God through adoption that goes far deeper than legal terminology.Elizabeth of the Trinity captures this beautifully: "It seems to me that I have found my heaven on earth since heaven is God and God is in my soul." Meanwhile, St. Teresa of Avila describes our soul as "a palace of priceless worth, built entirely of gold and precious stones." These mystical insights remind us that we carry within us a sacred sanctuary where God continually abides.The meditation offers practical ways to honor and recognize this divine presence: saying the Glory Be throughout the day, speaking God's name with reverence, and quickly rejecting thoughts that would taint the soul. As we celebrate the feast days of St. Patrick and anticipate St. Joseph's feast, we're reminded how these saints lived from this awareness of God's indwelling presence. How might your life change if you truly believed God was always with you, not just metaphorically but actually dwelling within your soul? Take a moment today to pause, make the sign of the cross, and acknowledge the divine presence that makes its home in you.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What does it really mean to be holy? On this Second Sunday of Lent, we dive deep into God's explicit call for our sanctification. Drawing from St. Paul's letter to the Thessalonians—"For this is the will of God, your sanctification"—we explore how holiness isn't about extraordinary spiritual manifestations but rather conforming ourselves to Christ.The journey to sanctification remains one of Catholicism's most profound and misunderstood teachings. Unlike the "once saved, always saved" doctrine, we recognize that becoming holy requires our active, daily participation through prayer, sacraments, battling sinful tendencies, and performing good works. As Padre Pio reminds us, "Let us become saints. That way, after our life together on earth, we will remain united forever in paradise."We also examine the often-overlooked truth about heaven's hierarchy. The more we conform ourselves to Christ during our earthly life, the higher our place will be eternally. This understanding transforms our spiritual practices from mere religious obligations into purposeful steps toward our ultimate destiny. Through practical Lenten resolutions—arriving early for Mass, turning to prayer during temptations, and practicing modesty of the eyes—we can begin this transformation today. The best way to lead loved ones to heaven is through our own example of sanctification. Receive the sacraments frequently and remember Elizabeth of the Trinity's wisdom: "A soul who lives in union with God does nothing that is not supernatural."Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Ever wonder why the Transfiguration appears during Lent? This seemingly paradoxical pairing reveals a profound spiritual rhythm that defines the Christian journey.On this Ember Saturday of the first week of Lent, we climb Mount Tabor with Christ and his chosen apostles to witness his divine glory. The face that will soon be marred beyond recognition shines like the sun; the body that will be broken radiates majesty. But why this glorious revelation now, as we're just beginning our Lenten disciplines?The Transfiguration serves a dual purpose that speaks directly to our spiritual lives. First, it offers a glimpse of Easter glory - the resurrection brilliance that awaits beyond our fasting and prayer. Yet perhaps more importantly, this revelation prepared the apostles for the devastating shock of the Passion. As Saint Bernadette beautifully expressed, "The Christian life has not only its combats and trials, it also has its consolations. If we have to go from Tabor to Calvary, we come back from Calvary to Tabor."This pattern repeats throughout our spiritual journey. Those mountaintop moments - when prayer feels effortless and God's presence overwhelming - aren't simply divine rewards. They're strategic preparation for the valleys ahead. The consolations strengthen us for coming crosses. While we rightfully look forward to Easter joy during Lent, we must remember what stands between now and resurrection glory: Calvary.Join us in embracing both the consolations and crosses of this Lenten season. Through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, may we follow Christ from glory to suffering and back to eternal glory again. What spiritual consolations have prepared you for difficult seasons in your life?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Patience stands as one of the most misunderstood virtues of our spiritual life. We think it means calmly waiting for our coffee or enduring a traffic jam without cursing. But the paralytic in today's Gospel shows us something far more profound – a man who returned faithfully to the healing pool for thirty-eight years, never abandoning hope despite nearly four decades of disappointment.What does it mean to bear suffering with grace? How do we maintain hope through extended periods of trial? The reflection draws a powerful distinction between momentary patience and long-suffering – that capacity to endure life's most profound challenges without losing faith and hope.The conversation takes a surprisingly personal turn as I share my own struggles with patience – particularly how my melancholic temperament leads me to internalize frustrations with others before eventually unleashing them. This honest admission highlights the teaching from the Imitation of Christ: "Bear with the faults and frailties of others, for you too have many faults with which others have to bear." True patience requires not just outward composure but inner peace.As we journey through Lent, these Ember Days call us to additional fasting, abstinence, and prayer for priests and vocations. Like my experience staying up until 2 AM with excited children to witness a lunar eclipse only to be met with cloudy skies, our spiritual practices don't always yield immediate rewards. Yet it's precisely in these moments of disappointment that patience transforms from mere waiting into a profound spiritual virtue.Join our Lenten journey and discover how cultivating authentic patience might be exactly what your spiritual life needs right now. Take time today for additional prayer, fasting, and if possible, participate in the Stations of the Cross to honor this special Ember Friday.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The power of persistent faith takes center stage in this meditation for the First Week of Lent as we examine the remarkable story of the Canaanite woman. When she approaches Jesus seeking healing for her daughter, his response seems harsh: "the bread of the children is not for dogs." Yet her humble persistence—"but the little dogs eat the crumbs"—ultimately wins his heart. "O woman, great is thy faith," Jesus declares, giving us a profound model of how faith becomes our greatest strength.Why do we struggle to effectively deploy our faith? The answer lies in our resistance to acknowledging our complete dependence on God. Drawing from Father Patrick Troadec's "Toward Easter," we explore how true faith requires us to "place ourselves humbly with the little dogs under the Master's table" to receive grace despite our unworthiness. This meditation includes beautiful prayers and reflections from spiritual giants like St. Catherine of Siena and St. Louis de Montfort, reminding us that faith serves as the foundation for all virtue.The conversation expands to consider how faith faces relentless attacks in our modern world. From secular education to materialistic culture, everything seems designed to replace true faith with counterfeits. Yet, without authentic faith, we cannot properly develop hope or charity. The meditation offers practical wisdom for strengthening this essential virtue: daily recitation of the Creed, making formal Acts of Faith each morning, and resolving not to lose confidence in God during trials. As we continue our Lenten journey, we're invited to rediscover faith not as a passive inheritance but as our active strength, enabling us to persevere through life's challenges with the humble confidence of the Canaanite woman.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Deep within our Catholic tradition lies the often-forgotten treasure of Embertide – those sacred days of intensified prayer and fasting that punctuate our liturgical year. Today's reflection brings us to Ember Wednesday of the first week in Lent, where we're reminded of the profound spiritual significance these ancient observances hold.The Gospel places before us the sign of Jonah – three days in the whale's belly prefiguring Christ's three days in the heart of the earth. Like the Pharisees who constantly demanded signs despite witnessing countless miracles, we too often seek tangible proofs rather than embracing the mystery of faith. True faith means adhering to divine truths without constant reassurance, trusting even when we cannot see or feel.Perhaps nowhere is this faith more beautifully expressed than in our baptism – that transformative moment when we became adopted children of God. As King Saint Louis IX of France profoundly noted, "I think more of the place of my baptism than of Reims Cathedral where I was crowned King of France, for the dignity of a child of God bestowed upon me at baptism is greater than ruler of the kingdom." How striking that a medieval monarch saw his divine adoption as more significant than his earthly crown! This challenges us to examine our own priorities and appreciate the treasure we received at the baptismal font.While we meticulously plan birthday celebrations marking our physical birth, how often do we commemorate the anniversary of our spiritual rebirth? This Lenten season offers the perfect opportunity to renew our appreciation for baptismal grace through simple practices: singing a Magnificat or Salve Regina in thanksgiving, attending an extra Mass, or establishing family traditions that honor baptismal anniversaries. Through these observances, we keep alive the ember of faith that first ignited in our souls when we became temples of the Holy Spirit.Looking to deepen your Lenten journey? Subscribe now and join our community as we rediscover these ancient rhythms of Catholic spiritual life together!Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The simplicity of a child's faith stands at the heart of today's Lenten reflection. Drawing from Matthew 21:16 — "Out of the mouth of infants thou hast perfected praise" — we witness a powerful Gospel scene where children recognize Jesus as the Messiah while learned Pharisees remain blind to what unfolds before them. What prevents these educated religious leaders from seeing what comes naturally to children? Pride and jealousy have plunged their hearts into darkness.For traditionally-minded Catholics, this presents a striking challenge. Many of us excel at learning the intellectual aspects of our faith — memorizing catechisms, studying theological works, mastering doctrinal nuances. Yet Christ reminds us that knowledge alone isn't the goal; rather, it should lead us toward the simplicity and openness of a childlike heart. This Lent offers the perfect opportunity to examine whether our spiritual sophistication has inadvertently erected barriers between ourselves and authentic communion with God.Prayer emerges as the essential practice for cultivating this childlike disposition. We explore practical ways to integrate prayer throughout daily life — carrying a rosary for unexpected moments, offering quick "ejaculatory prayers" during routine activities, and establishing family prayer traditions that help children maintain their natural openness to God. Most importantly, we discuss breaking free from the cultural conditioning that has taught many Catholics to keep their faith private and invisible. Children don't yet feel awkward making the sign of the cross in restaurants — and neither should we. As we approach the Ember Days this week, let's embrace the traditional practices of fasting, abstinence, and prayer with childlike simplicity, gratitude and trust.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The journey through Lent begins with a powerful reminder that this sacred season is fundamentally about conversion. Drawing from the prophet Ezekiel's portrayal of the Lord as the Good Shepherd, we're invited to recognize how Christ seeks out His lost sheep, binds up what is broken, and restores what is wounded.A sense of spiritual urgency permeates this meditation as we contemplate the sobering reality that our time for conversion is finite. "One day, time will no longer exist for us and we will no longer be able to do penance. It will then be too late." These words cut through complacency, challenging us to approach each day of Lent with intentionality rather than carelessness. The mercy of the Good Shepherd will eventually give way to the justice of the Just Judge, and only what we've done for the love of God will carry eternal weight.At the heart of authentic conversion lies the inseparable connection between love of God and love of neighbor. We're called to concrete expressions of charity—consoling someone experiencing difficulties and offering prayers and sacrifices for those distant from faith. The meditation concludes with pastoral wisdom for those concerned about loved ones who have fallen away: more than theological arguments or persuasive reasoning, hearts are prepared for conversion through our faithful prayers and penances.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!During this first Sunday of Lent meditation, we explore what it truly means to enter into our own forty days in the desert – not just through fasting, but through the powerful practice of prayer and spiritual withdrawal.Drawing from the day's Mass readings in the traditional Roman rite, we examine how biblical figures like Moses and Elias spent their forty days in profound spiritual retreat, preparing us to understand Christ's own desert sojourn. Their examples remind us that Lent isn't merely about giving something up; it's about creating sacred space where God can speak to our hearts. As St. Augustine wisely noted, "Our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee" – and Lent offers us the opportunity to rediscover that rest.But what does a spiritual desert look like in our hyperconnected world? Unlike medieval peasants who could physically withdraw, we face unique modern challenges. This meditation offers practical suggestions for prayer that fit within contemporary life: morning and evening devotions, spiritual communions, rosary recitation, visits to the Blessed Sacrament, and attending traditional practices like Stations of the Cross. Rather than scrolling before bed, we might pray Compline. Instead of a lunch break scrolling social media, we could sit in silence before the tabernacle. These small shifts create powerful openings for divine encounter.The three Ps of Lent—Penance, Prayer, and People (almsgiving)—must remain in balance. We easily remember to eat fish on Fridays, but do we remember to pray? This Lent, accept the invitation to withdraw from digital noise, secular distractions, and worldly preoccupations. Create your own spiritual desert—not of emptiness, but of divine fullness. Your forty days await.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Have you ever considered how a single careless word can spread beyond your control, wreaking havoc you never intended? The first Saturday of Lent invites us to examine one of our most common yet destructive spiritual ailments—sins of the tongue.Drawing from Mark's Gospel, we reflect on how Jesus healed the sick with just the touch of his garment, prompting us to recognize our own spiritual infirmities. The meditation focuses particularly on our tendency toward gossip, detraction, and calumny—sins that might seem minor but cause irreparable damage. St. Philip Neri's brilliant illustration of this truth comes alive as we hear about the penitent told to pluck a chicken and then gather all the scattered feathers, an impossible task mirroring the irretrievable harm of our careless words.What makes this reflection particularly powerful is its unexpected relevance to our digital lives. As I reflect on my own social media habits, I realize how platforms like Twitter have supercharged our ability to commit these sins, allowing us to instantly broadcast potentially harmful statements to thousands. The meditation's warning that "in every society, none are more to be feared than those who speak ill of their neighbor" takes on new urgency when we consider how digital gossip erodes the very trust our communities need to survive.The five practical resolutions offered—from not involving ourselves in what doesn't concern us to avoiding all insulting words—provide a challenging Lenten practice for anyone seeking spiritual growth. Whether you're struggling with everyday gossip or finding yourself caught in cycles of online criticism, this meditation offers both the uncomfortable mirror of self-recognition and the hopeful path toward healing our speech.Subscribe to join our Lenten journey as we continue tomorrow with reflections on prayer for the First Sunday of Lent, and share your own experiences of taming the tongue in our increasingly digital world.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Prayer changes our hearts. Penance disciplines our bodies. Charity connects us to other people. These three pillars form what Father Troadec calls "the three Ps of Lent" - the essential spiritual practices that transform this season from mere ritual into profound renewal.As we navigate the early days of our Lenten journey, we're reminded that abstinence from meat on Fridays isn't optional during these forty days. But deeper than following rules is understanding why these practices matter. Prayer acknowledges we cannot overcome sin through willpower alone. We need divine grace to see the world and others as Christ does. Penance recognizes our hybrid nature as embodied souls whose physical appetites often lead us astray. By disciplining our bodies, we free our spirits to soar.The challenge before us is balance. Many Catholics fixate on "giving up chocolate" while neglecting prayer. Others might fast rigorously but forget almsgiving. This Lent, examine which pillar needs strengthening in your spiritual life. Consider attending Stations of the Cross at your parish, a powerful devotion that connects us to Christ's Passion while fulfilling our call to deeper prayer. Whatever resolutions you make, remember they serve to bring you closer to the One who suffered for love of you.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!A transformative conversation unfolds today, guiding us through the spiritual renewal that Lent offers. We focus on the essential practice of examining our conscience as a path toward deeper healing and connection with God.  ResolutionsLet us take greater care in our examination of conscience.Let us make a good act of contrition, regretting our sins profoundly.Let us look for our predominant fault and make a concrete resolution to struggle against it.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!This episode invites listeners to embark on a transformative Lenten journey starting with Ash Wednesday. We explore the profound significance of acknowledging our mortality through the powerful reminder, "Remember, man, that thou art dust and unto dust thou shalt return." Our discussions delve into structured daily readings designed for spiritual growth, combining biblical insights with meditations to deepen faith.As we navigate our individual journeys, practical resolutions guide us toward a richer spiritual life. This includes suggestions for fasting and self-denial, emphasizing that the path to renewal requires personal commitment. By understanding both historical and contemporary practices, we open ourselves up to a shared experience of Christ's passion, fostering humility and accountability while promoting a deeper connection with God.Join us in this meaningful dialogue as we reflect on our resolutions, confront our fears of mortality, and embrace the call to share in Christ's suffering. Together, we set out to enrich our hearts this Lent, cultivating a spirit of transformation as we anticipate the celebration of Easter. Don't miss out on this engaging discussion and the chance to deepen your faith during the Lenten season. Listen, reflect, and share your thoughts with us!Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Most people want to read more but struggle to stay consistent. I've been there. Over the years, I've learned a few simple ways to make reading part of my life without forcing it. I'll share the strategies that worked, the six books that kept me hooked when my motivation dipped, and how to handle common mistakes—like getting stuck in books that feel impossible to finish.Send Me a Text Message with Your QuestionsIMPORTANT LINKS:

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”This is a supplement and interim update: How to face the overwhelming moral complexities of our time. Join Jack and navigate this challenging landscape, drawing inspiration from the prophecy of the "last great battle" over marriage and family as articulated by Sister Lucia of Fatima. This isn't about conflict with individuals but rather a stand against the manifestations of evil. This battle, primarily fought through the power of prayer, the sacraments, and aligning with Jesus' teachings, we aim to build the "City Of God" and inspire you to pursue righteousness and eternal life. Amidst a backdrop of corruption and crumbling societal values, we examine the middle class and the working poor's struggle in a culture dominated by the lies and distortions of powerful entities. Figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump are highlighted for their roles in challenging government overreach and the deep state, amid concerns about excessive taxation, government spending, and failing public education. Moving to the next step in your "Spiritual Formation" the meditative practice of Lectio Divina, and developing a deeper relationship with scripture, and the building of a supportive faith community. You will need courage and your intellect as you prepare for spiritual battles and find the path to peace and joy amidst life's present chaos.1.    Spiritual Formation:   a.  3 Simple Morning Solution to combat evil! Knees before looking at the phone!       1.    Kneel with Our Blessed Mother, your mother! "Let it be done to me according to your word" (See Luke 1:34-38)        2.    Temptation is not a sin: Use every temptation as an invitation to pray! Divine Mercy reading (Download app)        3.    Charity, Love the next person you see...action!b. Daily 15-30 minutes Prayer with Scripture (Lectio Divina: read, meditate, pray, contemplation-silence)  Daily Readings can be found:  Magnificat Subscription (on-line only $19.99 Year!) or a complete prayer app Hallow or for free at USCCB Bishops.c. Mass-Eucharistd. Confessione. Daily Rosary or Chaplet of Divine Mercy (Hallow app includes the Rosary, Divine Mercy app the Chaplet) (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: https://jp2renew.org/Support the show