Podcasts about lent year c

A homily for the 5th Sunday of Lent Year C 4/6/2025

“Let the one among you who is without sinbe the first to throw a stone at her.”

Can you smell that? When Mary anointed Jesus' feet with pure nard, the scriptures tell us that “the room was filled with the smell of the perfume. Mary spared nothing to do what she thought was right in the moment... to take a prophetic risk. On this final week of Lent, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith explore the significance of Mary anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume, highlighting the sensory experience and the intimacy of the act. Grab some perfume or a fragrant bar of soap and join in on Mary's prophetic trip down sensory lane. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

In this homily for the 5th Sunday of Lent, Fr. Michael reflects on the powerful moment when Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. He asks us the essential question: What is real? Is our day-to-day life more real than the God who made it? Is death final? Or is the life of Christ more real—even than death itself? In this final scrutiny Gospel, we are led to renew our trust in Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life. Fr. Michael walks us through Martha's confession of faith, Mary's grief, and Christ's tears, showing how even our suffering is not hidden from God. The invitation is simple: to believe again, and to follow the One who raises the dead.

What are the obstacles that stand in the way of you knowing Jesus more? Enjoy this week's homily.

Homily for the 5th Sunday of Lent, year C - April 6, 2025 Readings for the Solemnity: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040625-YearC.cfm

Read OnlineJesus went to the Mount of Olives. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. John 8:1–3What a painful and humiliating experience this must have been for this woman! Fortunately, the Savior of the World was there to care for her and to help her navigate this situation through His abundant mercy. Though she was a sinner, God's mercy offered a remedy for her sin and its consequences.Interestingly, this story is not included in some of the most ancient manuscripts of the Gospel of John. Saint Augustine believed that it was excluded by some of the early copyists of this Gospel because they were moral rigorists and were scandalized by the depths of Jesus' mercy. They feared that if this incredible act of mercy was conveyed to others, it would lead to a relaxation of moral rules.The scribes and Pharisees who brought this woman to Jesus also appeared to be scandalized by Jesus' mercy. Thus, the depths of mercy offered to this woman was one of many occasions in which Jesus was merciful to a point that was hard for the people to comprehend.How about you? How far are you willing to go when it comes to mercy? It is easy for us to resort to condemnation when we see the sins of others. We might feel justified in condemning them and even obliged to do so out of a desire to condemn sin itself. But Jesus' action shows that the sin must not be equated with the sinner. Sin must be condemned and was condemned by our Lord when He said to this woman, “Go, and from now on do not sin any more.” Though He condemned her sin, he did not condemn her: “Neither do I condemn you.”The mercy of God is incomprehensible. For example, recall that Jesus cried out from the Cross, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” Imagine the surprise that the first hearers of those words would have had. How could this man ask that God forgive the people who were murdering Him? Perhaps the only person who truly understood this prayer of mercy from the Cross was Jesus' own mother as she stood there gazing at Him with love.An important lesson for us to learn from Jesus' depth of mercy is that, at first, it will most likely scandalize us also. Mercy to this extent is supernatural. It challenges our natural reason and calls us to a new way of thinking and relating to others. The only way to overcome the “scandal” we might feel in the face of God's mercy is to live it ourselves. Doing so will require that we put on new eyes to see sin, mercy and forgiveness through the eyes of God. If doing so shakes you to the core of your being, that might be a good sign. Are you allowing the apparent scandal of God's abundant mercy to transform you so that it is no longer a shock or scandal to you, but is experienced as good and holy and from the Heart of our God? Reflect, today, upon how deeply you understand God's mercy. Do you rejoice when mercy is offered to another? Or do you find yourself condemning? Our Lord said, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” None of us are without sin; therefore, none of us has the right to cast a stone at another. Allow the apparent scandal of God's mercy to challenge you so that you come to not only understand God's infinite mercy but also to act as an instrument of that mercy to everyone. Most merciful Lord, You came to call the sinner to repentance and salvation. You offer mercy and forgiveness in superabundance. When faced with the sins of others, help me to imitate Your love for them and to show mercy and compassion to the greatest degree. I love You, Lord. Help me to love You and others with Your Heart of merciful love. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Adobe StockSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

The Lord says, "See, I am doing something new!"May we perceive the marvels the Lord is doing in our lives as we draw nearer to the day of salvation!Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040625-YearC.cfm

Enter the kingdom as a little child with Lucia and Maria Watson as they go through the Gospel readings for this Sunday's Mass.CHILDREN'S LITURGY is put together for Radio Maria by Lucia Watson based on CAFOD's Children's Liturgy material.If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. Visit RadioMariaEngland.uk/donations/ to find out more. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side.

The liturgical scripture readings for 5th Sunday in Lent, Year C.Subscribe to Sunday Commentary on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.Sunday Commentary is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

'Love, Understanding and Forgiveness' Lectio community member Eleanor Goss shares her reflection on where she sees this Gospel in life today

After Mary anointed Jesus' feet and Judas hypocritically complained about the price of the perfume not going to the poor, Jesus says, "You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me" (Jn. 12:8). Unfortunately, this statement has been used to justify not helping those in need. Jonathan and Seth talk about that history briefly but also about spending money on what matters. It's a discussion about how our priorities are shaped by problems we did not cause yet still influence us. Seth quotes from Lucas Bessire's Running Out: In Search of Water on the High Plains. The majority of the book is Bessire and his dad driving through rural Kansas, meeting with farmers who pump aquifer water and people trying to limit that water use. The afterword is particularly compelling, however, in its connection to broader societal problems and what Bessire calls "the widdening of acceptable disregard." This episode leads directly into next week's Palm Sunday reading. John's Gospel, too, looks forward to next week's lectionary reading as if to say, "Come back next week for more."  We hope you'll do that! Until then, we're glad you're with us.

So often we get this idea in our heads that our sin makes us unlovable to God, that we have to earn God's affection by our good behavior. God's not like that. God never stops loving us. So God provides a remedy for when we separate ourselves from him by our sin. We call that remedy the Sacrament of Penance, Reconciliation, or Confession. Just like all the sacraments, God's grace is truly made present to us through confession, where by visible signs and rituals we manifest the invisible action of God in the world. And the gospel we've just read, the parable of the Prodigal Son, has a lot to tell us about the invisible drama that takes place every time one of us makes a good confession.

Fifth Sunday in Lent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126, Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8

Philippians 3:8 “Indeed I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…” If you ranked the best things in your life, where would you place your relationship with Christ? Veronica and Melissa discuss how their own relationships with Jesus affects their lives and why we should always pursue a deeper bond with Him. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-04-03

The Sisters of St Joseph's reflect on the readings from Sunday and use the Catechism to go a bit deeper into their meaning.Each Wednesday morning the Dominican Sisters of St Joseph go deeper into the Gospel reading for the upcoming Sunday by exploring how it is used in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, finding connections in all four sections of the Catechism: the Profession of Faith, the Liturgy and Sacraments, our Life in Christ, and Prayer. Connecting the Gospel to these four dimensions of the Christian life with the help of the Catechism will break open the deepest meaning of the Scriptures for catechists of all age groups, Children's Liturgy leaders, teachers and parents.If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. Visit RadioMariaEngland.uk/donations/ to find out more. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side.

Choose joy! It may be hard sometimes, but the alternative will just tear you down. In this episode of Coffee to Go, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith take a look at the story of the Prodigal Son from the Gospel of Luke. While the young man was ready to receive what he deserved... nothing ... the father was more focused on the joy of his return.  That's how God feels when we “return home.” For some of us, it's probably good we don't get what we really deserve.  Instead, we get welcomed with open arms and pure joy. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

A homily for the 4th Sunday of Lent Year C 3/30/2025

In this homily for the 4th Sunday of Lent (Year C), Fr. Michael reflects on the well-known parable of the Prodigal Son—or rather, the story of a father and two sons. He explores how the parable speaks powerfully to the real spiritual struggles many people face today: the temptation to escape responsibility, the danger of doing good without love, and the deep call to imitate the generous, merciful heart of the Father. Whether young or old, all of us are invited to conform our hearts to the Father's—to go beyond legalism and beyond escapism, into the joy of mercy and communion.

We come before God as we are and as He is. Enjoy this week's homily.

Homily for the 4th Sunday of Lent, year C - March 30, 2025 Readings for the Solemnity: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/033025-YearC.cfm

Read OnlineTax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” So to them Jesus addressed this parable. Luke 15:1–3This is good news! Our Lord “welcomes sinners and eats with them.” For that reason, there is room at His table for you!Sometimes it's hard to admit that we are sinners. Of course we know in our minds that we are. But our pride can easily lead us to justify our sin, downplay it and conclude that we are not that bad after all. If you find yourself thinking this way, be careful. Doing so will make you like the Pharisees and scribes in the passage above. Clearly they did not see themselves as sinners, which is why they condemned Jesus for welcoming sinners and eating with them. The passage above comes from the beginning of Chapter 15 of Luke's Gospel and serves as an introduction to three subsequent parables. First, our Lord tells the Parable of the Lost Sheep, then the Parable of the Lost Coin, and then the Parable found in the rest of today's Gospel passage, the Parable of the Lost Son. In the first parable, the shepherd who finds his lost sheep rejoices. In the second parable, the woman who finds her lost coin rejoices. And in the parable we read today, the father who finds his lost son rejoices and throws a party to celebrate.Return, again, to the passage above that introduces these three parables: “Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus.” Once they drew near, Jesus spoke to them about the joy of finding that which was lost. Perhaps as Jesus initially spoke about the finding of the lost sheep and lost coin, this would have resonated with these tax collectors and sinners to a certain degree. But then our Lord tells them the long and detailed story about this boy who disrespects his father, takes his inheritance, squanders it on illicit living, and ends up with nothing. The story expresses the confusion of this boy, his desperation, his guilt and his shame. We learn of his interior thinking, reasoning, fears and anxiety.As you ponder this parable, try to understand the effect that it would have had upon the tax collectors and sinners who all drew near to our Lord. They were spiritually hungry, just as the prodigal son was. They had a past full of regret, just as this boy. They were unsatisfied in life and were looking for a way out, just as this son of the loving father was. For these reasons, those tax collectors and sinners who drew near Jesus would have been mesmerized by all that Jesus taught them and filled with hope that they, too, could share in the joy that was so generously bestowed upon this wayward son. Reflect, today, upon the touching image of these tax collectors and sinners drawing near to Jesus. Though they may have had a certain fear and caution, they would have also had hope. Try to understand what they must have thought and felt as they heard this story of the father's abundant mercy. Think about how they would have related as they discovered that there was hope for them, too. If you struggle with being like the scribes and Pharisees, reject that temptation. Instead, see yourself as one of those sinners who drew near to our Lord and you will be the cause of joy in the Heart of the Father in Heaven. Most loving and compassionate Lord, tax collectors and sinners were drawn to You. They found in You someone Who could free them from the burdens they carried within. Please help me to see myself as one of those humble souls in need of You and Your mercy. I reject my pride that leads me to self-justification and pray for humility so that I can come to You and gladden the Heart of the Father in Heaven. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The liturgical scripture readings for 4th Sunday in Lent, Year C.Subscribe to Sunday Commentary on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.Sunday Commentary is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

As we approach the fifth Sunday in Lent, this episode of Sermon Brainwave dives deep into love, betrayal, and the weight of Jesus' final days. Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Matt Skinner as they explore the tension between Mary's extravagant love and Judas' tragic betrayal, reflecting on what these contrasting responses reveal about discipleship, grace, and faith. Commentaries for the Fifth Sunday in Lent (Year C) can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fifth-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-john-121-8-6. Interested in joining Sermon Brainwave hosts Matt, Karoline, and alum Joy J. Moore at Ghost Ranch August 11-15, 2025. Learn more at: https://www.ghostranch.org/program/g25080201/. Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/fs0QD95jB6c.

Luke 15 has been called "The Gospel in miniature." In this week's lectionary reading, the parable of the prodigal son is the appointed text (Luke 15:1-3; 11b-32). However, that parable is the third one in a row. So, Jonathan and Seth discussed these three parables alongside Paul's theology of reconciliation. What does reconciliation look like? Who has the power to reconcile? Are there times when reconciliation is not possible? This episode is particularly joyous because Jonathan and Seth recorded in person. We hope that joy comes through. We also hope the sound quality is acceptable. It's even a short episode because Jonathan and Seth had to get back to playing Mario Party! Thanks for listening. We are glad you're with us.

Deacon Harold is breaking open the 4th Sunday of Lent, Year C for Word of God Wednesday and we also continue a look into Soulful Psalm 78

Fourth Sunday in Lent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

You can almost hear the kids saying, “Are we there yet?” And the answer is NO! We are still on the road to Jerusalem with Jesus, and Jesus is still encountering people asking questions to which he has already given answers. And yet, he tells a parable that reinforces just how merciful and patient he is with those who haven't borne fruit, even though he has shown them the way...God's way. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for a conversation about the importance of turning and going “another” way ... a way that is not our own. We are no better or worse than those who have gone before us, and we still have questions.  Thank God for the season of Lent... a time to reflect and turn. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

In this homily for the 3rd Sunday of Lent (Year C), we reflect on Jesus' urgent call to repentance through the parable of the barren fig tree. Fr. Michael explores how different generations in the Church have approached justice and mercy—and how both extremes can miss the heart of the Gospel. Drawing from personal experience, Church history, and Scripture, this talk reminds us that the call to repentance is not a threat, but an invitation to hope. God's mercy is greater than all our sins, and Lent is the time to return to Him with our whole hearts.

Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, CA 2F12 3 Lent (Year C) 11:00 a.m. Eucharist Sunday 23 March 2025   Exodus 3:1-15 Psalm 63:1-8 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Luke 13:1-9   The time has come to change your life. Alex Ross writes about a sound and light installation by the composer John Luther Adams (1953-) at the University of Alaska in Fairbanks. It is called The Place Where You Go to Listen. The title refers to Naalagiagvik, a beach on the Arctic Ocean, where a particular Inupiaq woman could hear and understand the voices of whales, birds, other creatures and even the whole planet around her.   “O God… my soul clings to you; your right hand holds me fast” (Ps. 63).

Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Lent, year C - March 23, 2025 Readings for the Solemnity: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032325-YearC.cfm

Read Online“‘For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. So cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?' He said to him in reply, ‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.'” Luke 13:7–9Imagine for a moment that you were the owner of the orchard in which this fig tree was planted. After the gardener asked you to wait for one more year and promised to fertilize the unfruitful fig tree and cultivate the ground around it, you agreed. Then imagine coming to inspect that same fig tree the next year. Imagine three scenarios. First, what would you do if, once again, there were no figs present? Second, what if there were only a few figs? Third, what if the tree suddenly produced an abundance of good fruit?It seems clear that in the first scenario, if for the fourth year in a row not a single fig was produced, it would be time to cut down the tree. This depicts the justice of God sent forth on those who obstinately resist His grace. In the second scenario, the decision might be more difficult. If the tree produced only a few figs for the first time, then perhaps that would provide enough hope for the future of that tree to ask the gardener to continue caring for it. This depicts those who are in a state of grace but are still lazy in their service of the will of God. In the third scenario, however, the reaction of the owner of the orchard would be clear. There would be much excitement and gratitude that the gardener's good work paid off.Jesus is the Gardener, and we are the fig tree. This parable should lead us to look at our lives and examine whether or not we bear good fruit for the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus comes to you to cultivate the soil of your heart, fertilizing it with His holy Word, watering it with His Sacraments and doing all He can to give you the opportunity to produce the fruit of charity in your life. How successful are these actions of our Lord in your life?Too often, when we see only a little good fruit being borne from our lives, we are satisfied. And though any good fruit is good, we are wasting our lives if we do not do all we can to become as abundantly fruitful as possible. Imagine the joy in the Hearts of our Lord and the Father in Heaven if they were to look upon you and see good fruit being produced beyond expectation. Why wouldn't this be your goal in life? Our Lord is patient, but He is also just. Do not try His patience, and do not succumb to His justice. Reflect, today, upon the image of you being this fig tree and our Lord as the divine Gardener. Commit yourself to His actions of tilling and fertilizing. You do so by strengthening your commitment to reading and understanding the Word of God, by participating more fully in the Sacraments, by being more focused upon your daily prayer, by examining your conscience more fully, and by sincerely confessing your sins. Do all you can to cooperate with the action of our divine Gardener and you will be amazed at the good fruit that begins to pour forth from your life. My divine Gardener, You have committed Yourself to the humble work of tilling the soil of my heart and fertilizing it with Your abundant mercy. I choose, this day, to respond to Your grace and pray that my cooperation with You will produce an abundance of good fruit in my life for Your glory and the building up of Your Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: The Vine Dresser and the Fig Tree (Le vigneron et le figuier) - James Tissot, Image via picyrlSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

The liturgical scripture readings for 3rd Sunday in Lent, Year C.Subscribe to Sunday Commentary on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.Sunday Commentary is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

Continuing our look at the readings for Lent as we look into 3rd Sunday of Lent, Year C. Also looking more at Soulful Psalm 78

Who matters? That question permeates politics today. This Sunday's Gospel reading might get at the question in a roundabout way. In roughly the first half, Jesus tells a series of stories about local tragedies; in the latter half, a parable about a fig tree that a vineyard owner wants to cut down. Jonathan and Seth discuss how these stories are about "mattering," how they jettison our traditional sense of mattering because of what they produce, and offer a look into God's economy that values people over any productivity. Be sure to tune in next week for a special episode recorded in person. Jonathan and Seth rarely get to see each other face-to-face, but had the opportunity to see each other, go bowling, play Mario Party, and find time to record a podcast episode. So, we hope you'll listen next week as well. Until then, we're glad you're with us!

Third Sunday in Lent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9

Are you going to be a fox or a hen? Before you answer that question, stop and take a few minutes ... it is Lent after all ... to engage in some honest self-reflection. The world may suggest that it's better to be a fox, but Jesus would likely disagree. You can decide as you listen to this episode of Coffee to Go with hosts, Karin Peter and Blake Smith. This week they're with Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. See what Jesus has to say about power and oppression, then spend some time figuring out in which camp you stand. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

In this homily, Fr. Michael reflects on the Transfiguration and the meaning of “glory” as Christ reveals it—a glory that comes through love and self-gift. He shares how glory is not worldly success, but the radiance of a life given in love, like Christ on the Cross. Fr. Michael draws on personal experience to show how embracing responsibility, whether in priesthood, marriage, or family life, deepens joy and enlarges the heart. Like Christ on the mountain, we too are called to shine with the glory of love by carrying the responsibilities God gives us. This is the path of the Cross and the Resurrection.

What is good for you? Homily given at Saint Aloysius Parish Cleveland, Ohio.

Homily for the 2nd Sunday of Lent, year C - Mar 16, 2025 Readings for the Solemnity: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031625.cfm

Read OnlinePeter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” But he did not know what he was saying. Luke 9:32–33As we are presented with this glorious event of the Transfiguration this Sunday, there are numerous lessons we can learn from it. The passage above presents us with two particular lessons. First, Peter and his companions were overcome by sleep while Jesus was transfigured in glory and conversing with Moses and Elijah. This line could suggest many things. It could mean that Peter was weak and more concerned with his human condition than he was with attentiveness to the important journey he was invited to take with our Lord. It could reveal a kind of spiritual sloth. It is easy in life to become weary of the journey and to become drowsy at the times that we should be most attentive to our Lord. For example, think about any time when you knew you should pray but instead, sat daydreaming or distracted, or chose to fill that time with something mindless. Peter and his companions, therefore, teach us that it is easy for us in our fallen human nature to “doze off” during those times when God wants to speak to us, especially while at Mass.Another interpretation of this line comes from the Church Father, Saint Ambrose. He suggests that this sleep of Peter and his two companions was primarily a result of them encountering “the incomprehensible brightness of the Divine nature.” As Jesus was transfigured, the initial vision was too much for them to comprehend, and so this vision began with them asleep as a symbol of the fact that we are all incapable of seeing the glory of God in our weakened state. But then they became “fully awake,” which implies that it took time for them to open their eyes to see the glory of God. This lesson teaches us that we all must wake up and work to become fully awake if we are to see the glory of God as He reveals Himself to us.After becoming fully awake and encountering the incomprehensible brightness of the divine nature, Peter says, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” The Gospel writer then goes on to say that Peter “did not know what he was saying.” Again, if we turn to Saint Ambrose, he points out that Peter's experience is commendable because he not only had earnest feelings but also took the initiative of good deeds. He wanted to build three tents so that Jesus, Moses and Elijah would remain with them. But another Church father points out that Peter “did not know what he was saying” because he did not, at that time, realize that it was indeed his mission to build a dwelling place for Jesus, the Law and the Prophets. It was his mission to build the Church, which was to be the future dwelling place of God on earth and the place in which we will encounter God throughout life.You, too, are entrusted with the responsibility of building up the structure of the Church on earth so that many may encounter the full glory of God. This will only happen if you continually seek to become fully awakened to the glory of God as He reveals Himself to you and, in the joy of that encounter, go forth to build up God's Church by your earnest desire and intentional acts of charity. Reflect, today, upon Peter and his two companions, James and John. Prayerfully ponder them asleep as Jesus was transfigured in glory. Reflect upon them waking up and beginning to realize what was taking place before them. Consider Peter's excitement and amazement and the effect that had on him. And then ponder how these disciples eventually did go forth to build the Church, the house of God, so that they and many others would come to meet Christ. Pray that the witness of these disciples will inspire you to follow in their footsteps. My Transfigured Lord, the glory that shone forth from Your divine face in radiance must have been beyond human description. Your true glory in Heaven is something that I hope to one day behold. Please instill in me a desire to more fully understand Your glory and to work tirelessly to be an instrument of that glory to all I meet. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Андрей Николаевич Миронов (A.N. Mironov), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Discover whether justification is a one-time event or an ongoing process in this Second Sunday of Lent (Year C) episode of the Sunday Catholic Word.

What does it mean to bear fruit in a season of waiting? In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, Profs. Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner explore the lectionary texts for the third Sunday in Lent, diving into themes of repentance, spiritual growth, and God's abundant grace. They unpack the parable of the fig tree, reflecting on the tension between God's patience and the call to bear fruit. The conversation also addresses the complexities of suffering and how 1 Corinthians 10 warns against idolatry, inviting listeners to reflect on their relationship with God. Join us as we explore these Lenten themes and offer insights to inspire your preaching this season. Commentaries for the First Sunday in Lent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/third-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-luke-131-9-6. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Exploring the Texts for Lent 09:17 Understanding Suffering and Repentance 20:13 Navigating 1 Corinthians 10: Temptation and Idolatry *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/7cTKDiQ9DAc.

What if the Prodigal Son isn't the only one who's lost? In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, Profs. Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner explore the parable of the Prodigal Son, examining its themes of grace, family dynamics, and reconciliation — all with fresh insights for 2025. They discuss how the parable's title shapes interpretation, unpack artistic depictions of the story, and connect its themes to the broader biblical context, including Joshua, Psalm 32, and 2 Corinthians. Join us as we explore these Lenten themes and offer insights to inspire your preaching this season. Commentaries for the Fourth Sunday in Lent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fourth-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-luke-151-3-11b-32-6. *  *  * Interested in joining Sermon Brainwave hosts Matt, Karoline, and alum Joy at Ghost Ranch August 11-15, 2025. Learn more at: https://www.ghostranch.org/program/g25080201/. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/SSdfZQ0XJ4Y.

At least in North America, citizenship seems to be in the news lately. What do Canadians think about the United States? Who and what is coming over the borders to affect our citizens? How do tariffs impact our citizens and hurt others? And what does it mean for Paul to write, "Our citizenship is in heaven" (Phil. 3:20)? Jonathan and Seth talk about this verse, which is often used to rationalize being separated from the earthly world. Can it be a helpful lens? How might it be particularly helpful in Lent? That seems like enough questions for one podcast! We're glad you're with us. This episode is not very political, despite the political undertones. So, if you're weary from the news, we hope you'll listen nonetheless.

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the First Sunday of Lent, Year C.Mass Readings:Deuteronomy 26;4-10Psalm 91;1-2, 10-15Luke 4;1-13"A Walk in The Word" podcast is a weekly bible study and reflection on the Sunday Mass readings led by International Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina.PODCAST HOMEPAGE: https://awalkintheword.buzzsprout.comYOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/hectormolinacatholicevangelistSupport: Are you enjoying these videos? Become a Patron and partner with me in spreading the Good News! www.patreon.com/hectormolina/You can also show your support for the podcast by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hectormolina#firstsundayoflent #1stsundayoflent #lent #fortydays #jesusinthedesert #threepillarsoflent #prayerfastingalmsgiving #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary#catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #awalkintheword#catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

In this homily, Fr. Michael reflects on Jesus' forty days in the desert and the invitation for each of us to follow Him into that place of encounter. Sharing his personal experience of time in hermitage and the story of St. Catherine of Siena, he explains how the “desert” is where we learn to listen to God and face our temptations. Lent is a time to strip away distractions, make space for God, and renew our choice to give our lives to Him. Fr. Michael encourages us to embrace this season as a real encounter with God's love and to seek the grace of confession if needed.

It's the first Sunday of Lent... a time for looking inward. Be advised, you can't blame everything on the devil. Well, you could, who would you be fooling? Sometimes you have to take responsibility for your own actions. Making responsible choices is up to you. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith as they enter the wilderness with Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and a special “visitor” to see how Jesus will respond when the pressure is on. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, CA 2F10                                            1 Lent (Year C) 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Eucharist                                      Sunday 9 March 2025 | Litany of Penitence                                          Deuteronomy 26:1-11 Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 Romans 10:8b-13 Luke 4:1-13   Are you living your real life? Or are you merely trying to avoid or dull the pain of existing? So much is at stake these days. And because we are involved there is no simple answer.   We give this holy instant to you O God. Guide us as we follow, certain your direction will lead us into peace. Amen. [i] [i] Based on Norwood Pratt's prayer. “This holy instant I would give to you. Be you in charge this day. I would follow you certain your direction gives me peace. Create in me a clean heart O Lord and renew a right spirit within me” 6 March 2025.

Read OnlineFilled with the Holy Spirit, Jesus returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the desert for forty days, to be tempted by the devil. Luke 4:1–2If someone is attacked or feels threatened, it is common to be defensive. For example, if soldiers suddenly find themselves under attack from an enemy, they will most likely take up a defensive position. Similarly, when we feel personally attacked by another or are tempted by the devil, we will often try to defend ourselves. However, within the worlds of games, sports and military activity, there is a common adage that says, “the best defense is a good offense.” In other words, the best way to keep the opponent from winning is to go on the offensive rather than to sit back and take up a defensive position.In many ways, this is what Jesus did when He entered the desert. He was aware that the evil one wanted to destroy Him. Therefore, when Jesus entered the desert for 40 days to pray and fast, He did so in a sort of offensive attack upon the devil. Jesus' temptations in the desert were not primarily difficulties He had to endure and resist. Rather, they were first and foremost ineffective attacks from the evil one, because Jesus had already embraced the opposite virtues.What temptations and sins are among your greatest struggles? In what ways do you find yourself experiencing defeat? In what ways have you taken up a defensive position to try to overcome your struggles? Too often we approach temptations in the wrong way. We see them as attacks from the evil one that we must resist and defend ourselves against. And though that is true, it is not the full truth. The full truth is that the best way to overcome the struggles we face is to confront them directly in a vigorous and offensive way by choosing the opposite virtue.Consider the three temptations Jesus overcame in the desert: gluttony, vainglory and greed. Jesus' entrance into the desert for those 40 days was the way by which He destroyed these temptations before they were even presented to Him. By voluntarily choosing to fast from food for those 40 days, Jesus rendered the temptation toward gluttony ineffective. By choosing the humility of entering into the solitude of the desert to be alone with His Father, Jesus robbed the temptation toward vainglory of its power. By choosing a life of poverty and simplicity, He overcame any temptation toward earthly wealth, even before it was offered to Him.As we begin this forty-day Lenten journey, reflect, today, upon the sins and temptations in your life that need to be overcome. If you find yourself in an ongoing defensive position toward certain struggles, especially if you find yourself losing the battle at times, it's time to change your strategy. Embrace the opposite virtue of the sins you are most tempted with this Lent. Embrace those virtues in an offensive manner. Choose kindness if you struggle with anger. Choose fasting if you struggle with gluttony. Choose generosity if you struggle with greed. Whatever your struggle, turn to the virtue you need the most and make it your focus this Lent so that you, too, will be well-prepared to reject the evil one and his lies when temptation comes your way. My tempted Lord, You resisted all temptation in Your life by choosing every good virtue and living them to perfection. Please help me to see the virtues I need the most right now and give me the strength I need to run toward them this Lent with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via picrylSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.