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Stand in the Breach Genesis 18:32 “ Then he said, “Oh, do not let the Lord be angry if I speak just once more. Suppose ten are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.” This verse comes from a discussion between God and Moses. Let me read you the whole conversation, so you have the context. This section follows immediately the one in which God promises Sarah and Abraham that they will have a son. In this section, God wonders if He should hide from Abraham what He is about to do to Sodom and Gomorrah, and He decides He shouldn't. He has chosen Abraham to teach His children right from wrong, and so He decides to tell him the judgment He is about to hand down to Sodom and Gomorrah. Let's read from Genesis 18:20-33. “Then the Lord said, “How great is the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah and how very grave their sin!  I must go down and see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry that has come to me; and if not, I will know.” So the men turned from there and went toward Sodom, while Abraham remained standing before the Lord. Then Abraham came near and said, “Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will you then sweep away the place and not forgive it for the fifty righteous who are in it?  Far be it from you to do such a thing, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous fare as the wicked! Far be that from you! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?”  And the Lord said, “If I find at Sodom fifty righteous in the city, I will forgive the whole place for their sake.”  Abraham answered, “Let me take it upon myself to speak to the Lord, I who am but dust and ashes.  Suppose five of the fifty righteous are lacking? Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five?” And he said, “I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there.”  Again, he spoke to him, “Suppose forty are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of forty I will not do it.”  Then he said, “Oh, do not let the Lord be angry if I speak. Suppose thirty are found there.” He answered, “I will not do it if I find thirty there.”  He said, “Let me take it upon myself to speak to the Lord. Suppose twenty are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of twenty, I will not destroy it.” Then he said, “Oh, do not let the Lord be angry if I speak just once more. Suppose ten are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.” And the Lord went his way, when he had finished speaking to Abraham; and Abraham returned to his place.” There are at least two things I love about these verses in the Bible. First, I love what it shows us about God. It shows us that God is approachable. It shows us that we can talk with Him and that He will listen. God knows everything. He is the almighty one. He could have very easily shut Abraham down and told him it was none of his business how God handled those cities. He could have been offended because Abraham was questioning Him and His judgment. He didn't do either of these things. He listened to Abraham, He allowed Abraham to make His case, and He agreed to spare the lives of the righteous. This shows us how compassionate God is. It also shows us his mercy as well. He was willing to have mercy on the whole town for the sake of a few righteous people, as few as 10 righteous people. According to the internet, about 1,200 people lived in those cities at the time of destruction. Can you imagine having mercy on 1190 people who are doing awful things, including child sacrifice, just because there are 10 among them who are doing the right thing? That is how much God wants all of us to be saved. He is willing to give us so many chances. He was willing to spare the whole city for the sake of a few. We tend to think a lot less about God's mercy and think more about His judgment and how He is just looking for us to mess up. That is not our God. That is not the God in the Bible. When we read scripture, we get to learn who God truly is. The story of Sodom and Gomorrah can be looked at as a story of how harsh God's judgment is. However, if you read the whole story in context, you can see that God did not want to destroy the towns. He was willing to save them even if there were just 10 righteous people in the whole town. However, He couldn't even find 10. The other thing I love about these verses is that Abraham is willing to stand up for those he didn't know. Right before this section, God told Abraham and his wife, Sarah, that they would have a baby. They had tried for a long time, and they were beyond their baby-making years, age-wise. This was going to be a miracle. I would like to think many of us would have done what Abraham did. I would like to think I would have kept asking God to save those people over and over again. The truth is, I don't know if I would have. Would I have been afraid if I pushed God, He would take away the miracle He promised me? Would I have been afraid God would have gotten tired of me asking and punished me in some other way? Would I have been happy if God's focus was on someone else's sin and not my own? I don't know what I would have done. I love what Abraham did, though. He stood up for those he probably didn't even know. He begged God to save the wicked for the sake of the righteous. There was a concept we learned about in Encounter that is similar to intercessory prayer, and yet it seems so much more powerful the way they explained it. When they talked about us interceding for others, they said it's like we are standing in the breach. We stand between them and God, pleading on their behalf. There is a scene in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy that my teacher used as an example. The good guys are being chased by the bad guys. They are crossing over a bridge, and it is collapsing. All of a sudden, a dragon or something comes after them, and the white wizard, the most powerful guy, protecting them, stands strong on the bridge and says, “You shall not pass.” The good guys are able to get away, and the bad guys are not able to pass. When I think about interceding for others, I picture myself standing in the breach and not letting anything bad happen to them. I am standing there to pray for them and ask God to protect them from evil, sickness, sin, and whatever else they need protection from. Abarham was standing in the breech. He was brave enough to stand up and ask God to reconsider His plan. God wants us to stand up for those who don't know any better. He wants us to pray for all the lost souls. He wants us to pray for sinners. He wants us to pray for the wicked. God doesn't want to lose a single one of His children. He wants us all to celebrate with Him in heaven one day, and to do that, we need to pray for those we don't want to pray for. He is calling us to pray for those we don't like, those who are not nice, those who do things we don't approve of. God is calling us to His team to pray for everyone. We have no idea how powerful our prayers can be. You don't know if your prayer can be the one thing that makes the difference between someone going to heaven or hell. What if that person just needed one person to pray for him or her? What if they just needed one person to believe in them? What if. So many saints I have read about have prayed for sinners, lost souls, and even those who have hurt them. Like St. Maria Goretti, who forgave and prayed for her attacker. Stand in the breech for others. Help God bring all his children home! Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless everyone listening to the episode today. Lord, you are so good. You want to bring all of your children home. Please help us to help you. Please help give us the strength to pray for those who have hurt us in some way. Please help us to pray for our loved ones who don't know you. Please help us to see that it is never too late with you. You are a merciful God who gives us so many chances to turn back to you. Help us to be brave and pray for those we feel do not deserve our prayers. Convict our hearts of who you want us to pray for, Lord. We love you, and we ask this in accordance with your will and in Jesus's Holy Name, Amen! Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. If this podcast is blessing you, please share it with a friend or leave a review. That simple step helps more people find it. And if there's someone you've been wanting to talk to about Jesus, but you don't know how to begin, send them an episode and let me do the talking. I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! God is on your side and we are, both rooting for you! Have a blessed day! Today's Word from the Lord was received in September 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “Stay the course. Be strong in my name. Pray for those who have been deceived. Offer your day to the fallen. Be my intercessors.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Adam welcomes Teresa Tomeo to the program to discuss how we can build community in our parishes in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi Adam reflects on the daily Gospel reading to wrap up the episode. Download the Covenant Network app today! Pray the Visual Rosary at VisualRosary.org For more information on Covenant Network, visit OurCatholicRadio.org

Like St. Francis, we can be victorious through Christ.

1/27/26 7am CT Hour - Martha Fernandez Sardina/ Harry Kraemer John, Glen and Sarah talk inclement weather , Trump and Walz try to deescalate MN and National Chocolate Cake Day. Martha shares how we can unlock the graces of St. Francis in this jubilee year and love like Francis. Harry talks common sense and seeking to understand the other side to reach common ground and attain peace rather than disunity and anger.

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck.” — Matthew 18:6In part two, we go deeper into the father's call: to protect, to provide, and to lead his family toward heaven. Advent and Christmas show us a God who humbled Himself—who chose to come down to our level, to become small, and ultimately to give His life for us. Christ's meekness and humility weren't weakness - they were strength under control.This episode reflects on why fathers matter so deeply in the home. Our presence shapes our children's sense of safety, identity, and faith. Being there, day in and day out; forms hearts in ways we may never fully see. Fathers are called to be anchors, examples, and guardians of the little lives entrusted to them.We also challenge dads to follow Christ's example: to humble themselves, to get down on their children's level, to enter their world through play, imagination, and quality time. And at the same time, to become integrated men: able to be childlike while also standing firm as leaders in the home. Like St. Joseph, we're invited into quiet courage, steady sacrifice, and faithful shepherding of our families.As always, thank you for tuning into Conversations with Chance Mutuku. Don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to the channel.Big love to our sponsors, BBBBLANC* and Kabaka Concept. For more info, catch us here:

Friends of the Rosary,Like St. John the Baptist said, in today's reading (John 3-22:30), “He must increase; I must decrease.”At that time, John prepared the way of the Lord, presenting himself as a forerunner of the Messiah.He was summing up the longing of the Israelites when, upon Jesus' coming to be baptized, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” Behold the one who has come to be sacrificed, bringing fulfillment.John the Prophet did not draw attention to himself. Rather, he presented himself as a preparation.Similarly, today we must decrease. which is to say, we must empty ourselves of our self and focus on Christ Jesus.This way, we will open up a space in our hearts to receive the lavish grace of God.Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠January 10, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/123025.cfmFather Chris Alar, MIC reflects on the coming Feast of the Presentation of the Lord and the Purification of Mary — a mystery often misunderstood, and sometimes misused, to challenge the Church's teaching on Our Lady. What appears, at first glance, to be a ritual of purification reveals instead a profound lesson in obedience, humility, and grace.Mary did not submit to the law because she was sinful. Her purification was legal, not moral — a requirement of Mosaic law tied to childbirth, not guilt. Just as Jesus did not need Baptism yet freely accepted it, Mary did not need purification yet humbly embraced it. Grace raised her above the law, Fr. Chris explains, but humility placed her beneath it. Together, Jesus and Mary show us that obedience to God's law is not weakness, but witness.The Presentation also reminds us that every child belongs first to God. In the ancient law, the firstborn was not owned by the parents, but lent to them by the Lord. Parenthood, therefore, is stewardship — a sacred trust for which we will one day answer. Faith must be passed on by example, just as Mary and Joseph lived the law faithfully before their Son.Father Chris then turns our attention to Simeon and Anna, the “quiet in the land.” They did not seek power, spectacle, or influence. They waited in silence, prayer, and hope. Their lives testify that holiness is not measured by activity, but by fidelity. This is a special word of encouragement for the homebound and forgotten: quiet prayer, offered faithfully, shapes salvation history.Finally, Simeon's prophecy confronts us with a sobering truth. Christ does not condemn us — we judge ourselves by our response to Him. When His law meets a heart that loves, it lifts us up. When it meets indifference or rejection, we turn away on our own. Salvation is not a one-time declaration, but a daily surrender. Like  St. Thérèse of Lisieux taught, we are not called to climb to heaven by our strength, but to place ourselves in Christ's hands and let Him do the lifting.Grace invites. Humility responds. And the hand of Jesus raises all who are willing to endure in Him ★ Support this podcast ★

Preparing for the Coming Messiah in Advent: The Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets Today's Gospel reveals that Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist, . . . . . . though he was not recognized and was rejected, just as Jesus Himself will be. John fulfills Elijah's mission: preparing hearts for the coming of the Messiah through repentance and reconciliation. Advent, therefore, is not merely waiting, but an active turning of hearts . . . first toward God and then toward one another, especially within families where division and hurt often arise. Jesus is the fulfillment of God's plan revealed through the Law and the Prophets. Like St. Lucy, believers are called to make a decisive choice for God, rejecting spiritual complacency and committing fully to Christ as they prepare for His coming. Listen to Elijah's mission. Listen to Preparing for the Coming Messiah in Advent: The Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work Transfiguration: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch:  1872 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why was this image selected: This masterpiece unites Moses and Elijah with Christ, visually proclaiming Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. It directly mirrors the Gospel context, which follows the Transfiguration and explains Elijah's true role.

As Christmas Day draws near, we often hear stories of generosity, kindness, and the spirit of giving. But perhaps no story has inspired these virtues more than the life of St. Nicholas—a real man whose faith-filled generosity continues to echo through the centuries.Long before red suits and reindeer entered the picture, Nicholas lived a quiet, Christ-centered life marked by sacrificial love. His story reminds us that the true meaning of Christmas isn't found in what we receive, but in how we reflect the love of Jesus to others.A Childhood Shaped by Faith—and LossNicholas was born around A.D. 280 into a wealthy Christian family in Patara, a bustling port city in modern-day Turkey. From an early age, his parents taught him the teachings of Jesus—especially the call to care for the poor and the vulnerable. Their daily example planted seeds of compassion that would later bear extraordinary fruit.A tragedy occurred when Nicholas was still young. An epidemic claimed the lives of both his parents, leaving him orphaned—but also leaving him with a significant inheritance. In his grief, Nicholas turned to his faith. Rather than clinging to his wealth, he saw it as a means to serve others and live out the gospel.Nicholas became known for quietly helping those in desperate situations. His most famous act of generosity involved a poor man and his three daughters. In that culture, a dowry was required for marriage. Without it, the daughters faced the horrifying prospect of being sold into slavery.Moved by their plight, Nicholas acted—secretly. Under the cover of night, he delivered a bag of gold to the family, securing the eldest daughter's future. He returned twice more, each time providing enough to ensure another daughter could marry safely.When the father eventually discovered Nicholas's identity, Nicholas urged him to thank God alone. He took Jesus' words to heart: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). Nicholas didn't seek recognition—only faithfulness.A Shepherd With Courage and ConvictionLater in life, Nicholas became the bishop of Myra, where his compassion expanded beyond individuals to an entire community. He was known for defending the poor, standing up for the innocent, and shepherding his people with deep love.During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, Nicholas risked imprisonment for his faith. He later attended the Council of Nicaea in A.D. 325, standing firm for the truth of the gospel. Yet what truly defined him wasn't his position—it was his Christlike love.Nicholas lived as if true wealth was found not in possessions, but in a living relationship with God.After his death on December 6, A.D. 343, stories of Nicholas's generosity spread across generations. He became known as a protector of children, a patron of sailors, and a symbol of selfless giving. Over time, his life inspired the figure we now associate with Santa Claus—but behind the legend stands a man devoted to glorifying God.The story of St. Nicholas challenges us to reconsider the meaning of Christmas. His life wasn't about extravagant gifts or public praise. It was about embodying the love of Christ—sacrificial, humble, and freely given.Living the True Meaning of ChristmasThis Christmas, as we exchange gifts and gather with loved ones, let's remember that the greatest gift has already been given—Jesus Christ, who came to save sinners and offer eternal life.Like St. Nicholas, we are called to share that gift with others. Through generosity, service, and simple acts of kindness, we can reflect the light of Christ in a world desperate for hope. As Jesus reminded us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”May the story of St. Nicholas inspire us to give generously, love deeply, and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas—because it's not the gifts we receive, but the love we share, that makes this season truly special.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've heard that even if you have a will, your estate still has to go through court, but that having a trust allows you to avoid that. Is that correct? Since I currently have both a will and a trust, is it advisable to keep both?I'm the CFO of a company that's considering a sale. The CEO wants to sell to a buyer I'm concerned could ultimately harm the company. Given my role, what counsel or perspective can I offer the CEO as we consider this decision?I'm 82 years old and have lost my eyesight, which makes it difficult to write checks and pay bills. What options are available for setting up automatic bill pay or managing my finances more easily?I'll be retiring soon—I turn 62 next year—and I still owe about $119,000 on my home. I work part-time, and my husband works full-time. Should I start collecting Social Security now, even though I'll continue working, so we can pay off the house more quickly?My husband and I are in our early 40s. We own our home outright, have no debt, and paid for college in cash. We've saved about $140,000 and would like to invest $100,000, but we're not sure of the best way to do that.I was overpaid SSDI by Social Security and am currently repaying it. Do I need to repay the overpayment before I can receive my retirement benefits?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121825.cfmFather Matthew, Tomeny, MIC reflects on St. Joseph — the silent guardian of the Holy Family — and the mystery that unfolded when God entrusted him with Mary and the Christ Child. The Gospel tells us Joseph was “a righteous man” (Mt 1:19; NABRE), not because he had all the answers, but because he responded to God with humility, reverence, and obedience. Faced with a situation beyond human explanation, Joseph chose mercy over judgment and trust over control.Father Matthew explores the Church's rich tradition on Joseph's response to Mary's pregnancy. Rather than suspicion, many saints and theologians saw in Joseph a profound reverential fear — a recognition that he was standing before the work of the Holy Spirit. Like St. Peter who said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” (Lk 5:8; NABRE), Joseph considered himself unworthy to be so close to such holiness. His desire to step back was not rejection, but awe.God, however, reveals Joseph's role through the angel: “Do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home” (Mt 1:20; NABRE). Joseph's obedience gives Jesus His legal lineage as Son of David and provides the Holy Family with protection and stability. Though he never speaks a word in Scripture, Joseph's faith speaks loudly.As Christmas approaches, this homily invites us to imitate St. Joseph — to stop striving for control and allow Christ to dwell in the home of our hearts. True righteousness is found not in understanding everything, but in humbly saying "yes" when God asks us to make room for Him. ★ Support this podcast ★

Listen to today's podcast... Ever wondered who St. Nicholas was? There once was a young boy named Nicholas, who was born during the third century. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic. Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating St. Nicholas Day: We could all stand to be a little more like St. Nicholas.  Here is a boy, whose world dramatically changed when his parents died.  He could have let this beat him down. He could have drowned in self-pity.  Instead, he relied on his faith and did whatever he could to help those who were even less fortunate then himself.  Let's get good at turning life around and focusing on what we have, and less on what we have lost or don't have. Today, we have the image of Santa Clause and we give gifts to the people we know and love.  But what about our giving to those less fortunate then ourselves? We are donating less each year. The average annual amount per donor is less than $500 with the median amount under $150. With the economy the way that it is, the demand within most charities has increased while their donations have decreased.  Make a difference in the lives of someone less fortunate than you.  It doesn't take a lot to have a huge impact. In 1998, my youngest son was due to arrive on Christmas Day.  We decided that boy or girl, their name would honour St. Nicholas as he was our blessed gift.  Nickolas arrived safely on December 22. If you like today's resiliency tips, let me know. Don't forget that you can find more tips for building resiliency, by checking out my Live Smart blog at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

ShownotesFor the longest time, Jennifer thought purgatory was a place of limbo. Somewhere you went after you died and it was there that God determined whether or not you went to Heaven. She thought if you went to purgatory, you could still go to Hell. Thanks to learning more about the Catholic faith and, more specifically purgatory, Jennifer has come to realize this is not true. But it raises questions: If your soul does go to purgatory, how does it get out? Is there something specific one must do in order to get to heaven? Are there any saints or prayers that can help us or, more importantly, help our loved ones make the leap from purgatory to Heaven? In this week's episode, Andrea and Jennifer have a conversation with guest Dana Nygaard about this and more.Our GuestDana is a Catholic Licensed Professional Counselor, who has a devotion to St. Gertrude the Great. Especially after the death of her Father Bennie, she found great consolation in St. Gertrude's prayers. Welcome to the show, DanaScripture⁠2 Maccabees 12:44-45⁠⁠Psalm 46:08⁠⁠1 Corinthians 3: 11-13 ⁠Biographies of St. Gertrude the Great Catholic Culture Bio of St. Gertrude  Given Institute Bio of St. Gertrude  Sacred Heart: St. Gertrude the Great  Links on Purgatory Descriptive and clear bible passages about Purgatory (National Catholic Register)St. Gertrude bringing comfort and joy (TheDivineMercy.org) Prayer of St. Gertrude the Great  for the Souls in Purgatory Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the masses said throughout the world today, for all the holy souls in purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen.Prayer for the souls of Fr. Richard Hart, a former priest of Jennifer's.Journaling QuestionsDana talks about Holy Spirit goose bumps and how she knows He is working in our lives. Have there been times where you have felt Holy Spirit goosebumps? What peaceful encounter did you experience?Like St. Gertrude, how does God use our talents and gifts to glorify him? In what times do we need to withdraw from those gifts so that we can focus on Him? Who is someone in your life right now that needs prayer? Think of opportunities throughout the day to ask the souls of purgatory to intercede. How can this be a gift for the faithfully departed? How can you make the prayer of St. Gertrude a regular part of your prayers in November? We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. God Bless!

Send us a textWhat does it really mean to live to the heights? In this episode of The Daily Nothings, Courtney and Meghan dive into the life and legacy of St. Pier Giorgio Frassati—a Catholic young adult who lived with contagious joy, deep faith, and a bold love for others.As the patron of SEEK and a model for modern Catholic missionaries, Pier Giorgio shows us how to live our faith with authenticity, courage, and humor in the ordinary moments of life. From mountain hikes to mission fields, his “little yeses” changed everything.Join us as we talk about how his story still inspires Catholic young adults, missionaries, and anyone seeking holiness in the modern world.Discussion Questions:Have you been to SEEK before? If so, how did you encounter God? If not, what is another moment where you really encountered Christ? What about St. Pier Giorgio Frassati strikes you? What do you want to learn more about him?Since SEEK falls on the first week of January, how are you hoping to encounter the Lord more in 2026?Tan Digital: Coming from Tan Books is a new app, that is basically an online Catholic bookstore, that you can find in the app store! Just search "Tan Digital" and download today to start your free trial!Bible Across America: From the St. Paul Center, enter into Advent this year with Bible Across America! Sign up here: stpaulcenter.com/adventSEEK: Register here today! seek.focus.orgReceive EXTRA content by joining our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/TheDailyNothingsPodcast Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://youtube.com/@thedailynothingspodcast?si=zxKuNgKossdwHvQhThanks for listening to The Daily Nothings Podcast! Be sure to subscribe and leave a rate and review.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 1:2). Amen."My husband, Charlie, he wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life. On the cross, our Savior said, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.' That young man, I forgive him." Those are the words spoken two weeks ago by Erika Kirk at the funeral of her husband, Charlie Kirk.It doesn't matter your political views. These were the heartfelt and heart-rending words of a widow to a man who had left her without a husband and their two young children without a father. Yet, she was able to extend Christ's forgiveness from the cross to her husband's murderer.What about you? Are you able to forgive someone who has hurt you? Damaged you? Taken something valuable from you?The widow of a slain Sheridan police officer made a powerful victim impact statement in court this week, saying she will "forever live with the agony" of what happened to her husband. She also said that she often finds it difficult to quell the "rage and bitterness" that remain with her since her husband's death. You can understand and appreciate her words, can't you?Can you forgive your parents who were verbally abusive and physically unloving to you while growing up? Can you forgive the grown child who has forsaken your family and destroyed all relationships within the family? Can you forgive your former spouse for his harshness or her vindictiveness? Can you forgive the supervisor and coworkers for the toxic work environment you were exposed to? Can you forgive the pastor or teacher who failed you? Can you forgive the neighbor whose dogs and loud pick-up truck have no concept of time or noise?Those are great questions. Perhaps all of them can be summed up with this question: "Do I have the faith to forgive?"Jesus gives us a hard task when he teaches us about rebuking and forgiving. He says, "If your brother sins, rebuke him. If he repents, forgive him. Even if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times returns to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him" (Luke 17:3-4). Both of these commands to rebuke and forgive are extremely difficult to put into practice. It's challenging to lovingly rebuke a fellow believer. Rebuke means to offer a strong correction of sinful behavior or to reprimand disordered actions. Rebuking is challenging. We'll be tempted to remain silent to keep the peace. Or be silent for fear of retribution. Or be silent for worry of being called a "hypocrite" or "self-righteous." Rebuking is also difficult because when we do speak up, we'll be tempted to be too harsh or too personal with our criticism. Or we speak up and we open old wounds or create new ones. So, we can harm people with no rebuke or damage them with too strong of a rebuke.We are called by Jesus to rebuke with the purpose of leading the person to repentance, restoration, and Christ's forgiveness. Rebuking serves to redirect someone who has gone astray, leading them to return to the path of Jesus Christ.Equally challenging is to forgive the person who has hurt you. We may think we are letting them off the hook if we forgive quickly. Or we are giving them a license to keep on sinning against us if we forgive too often. Or we may question the sincerity of their sorrow when they start doing the same thing over and over. Or we may want them to show us proper contrition with tears, guilt, and some form of penance. We want them to "earn" our forgiveness with their actions.It's more natural to ignore an offense or to allow it to fester within our heart than to lovingly rebuke. It's more natural for us to seek revenge or to hold a grudge than to forgive.You know from experience how difficult it is to forgive. And then others make it even more difficult! Your coworker apologizes for some minor offense by saying, "I'm sorry." You reply, "I forgive you." Then your coworker takes offense. She feels that what she didn't wasn't so awful that she needed forgiveness!You also know from experience that when Jesus encourages you to turn the other cheek, people will then line up to swat you on the other cheek. When Jesus invites you to forgive seventy-seven times, people will sin against you another seventy-six times.There were plenty of people on social media who criticized Erika Kirk for her forgiveness. On a side note – social media can be fun, informative, and a unique way to share the gospel. It is also a cesspool of evil. Reading and responding to social media comments on my podcasts are a level of hell that I don't like dipping my toe into!Some were saying on social media that it was weak for Erika to forgive her husband's killer. They don't understand the divine strength it takes to forgive in Christ's name. Apparently, those critics believe we're only supposed to forgive people once they give a perfectly worded apology. One comment read, "God only forgives those that ask for it. Forgiving someone when they haven't asked for forgiveness is not godly, its virtue signaling."Jesus doesn't present forgiveness as an encouragement or a suggestion. It's a command. Jesus says multiple times in our Gospel, "Forgive him." We pray in the Lord's Prayer that if we withhold forgiveness, we should not expect forgiveness from our Father in heaven. "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." St. Paul echoes this, calling believers to forgive, "just as God in Christ has forgiven us" (Ephesians 4:32).Forgiveness is not about excusing sin or excusing justice. It's about personally reflecting God's mercy. Remember, Jesus asked his Father to forgive us on the cross, even while we remained unrepentant, "Father, forgive them for they don't know what they're doing." St. Paul puts it this way, "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).Others mocked Erika that she could smile and laugh at her husband's funeral. Some of the biggest smiles and loudest laughs I've ever heard have been at Christian funerals. Like St. Paul says, we Christians do not mourn as those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). Our smiles, memories, and peace in the face of heartbreaking tragedies are not signs of denial or weakness. They are rooted in Christ's resurrection from the grave. One comment summarized this well, "If you can't fathom how Erika Kirk could dare smile today, maybe it's because you need to meet her God."The apostles had met their God. He was standing right in front of them in the person of Jesus Christ! They realized how hard it was to forgive … and keep on forgiving. They responded, "Increase our faith" (Luke 17:5). The apostles recognized how humanly impossible it is to forgive. The sinful nature within every human refuses to rebuke, delays forgiveness, and harbors grudges. Cognizant of their own weakness and inability to carry out Jesus' command, they cried out to Jesus, "Increase our faith!"What a beautifully simplistic prayer for us to bring to the Lord each day. Just as we are to daily pray for forgiveness, so we are to daily pray for an increase of faith so we can forgive. Include praying the Lord's Prayer to increase your faith to forgive. Pray the Lord's Prayer on your own. When you are upset with someone, pray with them. Then, pray the Lord's Prayer with them. It's hard to stay mad at someone when you're praying with them.Jesus responds to their prayer for increased faith by saying, "If you had faith like a mustard seed, you could tell this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you" (Luke 17:6). Jesus knows how impossible it is for us to keep forgiving someone over and over again for the same sins. Still, he commands us to forgive. What Jesus commands us to do, he empowers us to do. So, when we ask, "Do I have the faith to forgive," Jesus answers with a definitive "Yes!" He gives you the ability to forgive through the power of the Holy Spirit through faith in him as your Savior. This is a faith that was instilled in you through Baptism or conversion. A faith that grows through constant use of Word and Sacraments.Jesus was not teaching us to fling trees into oceans. That's good! Because where we live, we have very few trees and even fewer oceans.Even a faith as small as a mustard seed can enable us to forgive and then do everything else we need to do as God's kingdom servants. If you trust in Jesus, you have enough faith to forgive even as you have been forgiven. You have the faith to do impossible things for Christ's kingdom.We're going to do something right now that I haven't done before in a sermon. But I think this will be helpful today and going forward in future sermons. Please bow your head. Speak to God as you privately confess your sins of failing to forgive someone for their sins against you.Silence for private confession.Brothers and sisters in Christ, Jesus has forgiven you for your lack of forgiveness. He does not withhold forgiveness from you. Instead of drowning you in the depths of the sea with a millstone necklace, he has drowned your sins in the deep waters of the baptismal font. Instead of demanding that you toss around mulberry trees, Jesus was crucified upon the tree of the cross. Jesus did not wait for you to be repentant before he forgave you. He prayed on the cross, "Father, forgive them – these unrepentant sinners – for they have no clue what they're doing." You are forgiven. Go in peace.Jesus teaches, "Which one of you who has a servant plowing or taking care of sheep will say to him when he comes in from the field, 'Come at once and recline at the table'? Won't the master tell him instead, 'Prepare my supper, and after you are properly dressed, serve me while I eat and drink. After that you may eat and drink'? He does not thank the servant because he did what he was commanded to do, does he? So also you, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, 'We are unworthy servants. We have only done what we were supposed to do'" (Luke 17:7-10).The Lord who calls you to repeatedly forgive has not grown weary of forgiving your daily trespasses. The Lord who calls for humble plowing, shepherding, and table-waiting within his kingdom, also wrapped a towel around his waist to wash his disciples' feet. Now he wraps a towel around his waist to wash away your sins with his baptismal waters. He doesn't expect you to prepare a table for him. Instead, he invites you today to his holy table. The Lord, to whom we owe eternal service, chooses to serve you through his means of Word and Sacraments. The Lord, in whom you put your faith, promises to be the power behind even your tiny, mustard seed faith.With an increase of faith in our gracious and powerful Savior, we can defy the laws of nature and science. With our Master serving us, we simply do what we are commanded to do as his grateful and unworthy servants. We can forgive unconditionally. We can serve faithfully.Tim Allen, the star of shows like Home Improvement and Last Man Standing, expressed how much of an impact Erika's speech had on him. Allen's father died in 1964 after a drunk driver's vehicle collided with his vehicle. Allen was 11 years old at the time of his father's death. Tim Allen posted on X, "When Erika Kirk spoke the words on the man who killed her husband: 'That man … that young man … I forgive him.' That moment deeply affected me. I have struggled for over 60 years to forgive the man who killed my Dad. I will say those words now as I type: 'I forgive the man who killed my father.' Peace be with you all."We can rightly ask like Jesus' apostles, "Do I have the faith to forgive?" Yes, you do. Because Jesus' forgiveness gives you both the faith and the ability to forgive. Jesus' words forgive you. Your words forgive others. And your words of forgiveness releases others to forgive. Believe these words. Live these words. Pronounce these words. These words that you are blessed to hear in worship: "God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will." Amen.We are always praying for you, that our God will make you worthy of your calling and use his power to fulfill every good desire and work of your faith, so that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you and you in him (2 Thessalonians 1:11, 12). Amen.View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/do-i-have-the-faith-to-forgive/

7 Turning Points for America: A Tribute to Charlie Kirk (Ep. 480)The assassination of Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, is more than a tragedy—it is a Turning Point. Like St. Paul, Kirk lived boldly, proclaiming Gospel truth in the public square and calling a generation to courage. In this episode of IGNITE Radio Live, we remember his life and witness, share stories of lives changed, an impactful homily by Fr. Jonathan Wilson on the deeper meaning of this moment. We unpack Seven Turning Points for America—from narrative to truth, from positions to persons, from comfort to courage, from media manipulation to discernment, from mourning to mission, from sin's chains to confession's freedom, and from the sidelines to Spirit-filled action. We also share a powerful new tribute song honoring Kirk's legacy: Over the Storm (A Tribute to Charlie Kirk).This is not a time to sit back. It is a call to rise, to live IT in our homes and families, and to bear witness to Christ in the storm.God is calling. His grace is waiting.

Have you ever wondered what Anne Frank and St. Therese of Lisieux have in common? Although they are very different women from very different backgrounds, both changed the world through writing, both died way before their time, but they both continue to bless, inspire and transform the lives of millions of people...all because they wrote down their life experiences. YOU can do that too! You have a story that has the power to transform lives. In this episode, I share how these two great souls illustrate the power of writing your story. St. Therese of Lisieux, whose book, Story of a Soul, transformed her from an unknown nun to a powerful saint who continues to bless millions. And how the late Anne Frank brought the whole world into hers in the little attic in Amsterdam and made us all feel that we had lost a dear friend in the war. Do you feel like you have a story to tell? I'd love to hear about it. PS – Join me for the FREE “YOU Can Write a Life-Changing Book” Masterclass – sign up here   Key Learnings:  Books are miraculous! By sharing your story through writing, you magnify your impact way beyond what you could personally do. Two of the best examples of this are St. Therese of Lisieux and Anne Frank. St. Therese wanted so much to be a saint, but felt she could never truly do anything ‘big' or significant, so she focused instead on her ‘little way' which was about doing small things with great love. This way was not so little after all, as it inspired Mother Teresa in her great work many decades later! And Anne Frank was shut off from the outside world in the harshest of circumstances, yet she wrote about her experience and brought all of us into her world. To this day, millions of people are touched by her book. Mother Mary has said that the most healing thing you can do is share your story. Writing your story, whether it's your personal story, spiritual memoir, a non-fiction hot-to book or work of fiction…whatever wants to come through you has the power to transform the world. The episode about Anne Frank is Ep 207- Anne Frank's Miracle & Message for Aspiring Writers “The most healing thing you can do is to share your story.” Mother Mary   Click here to register for the FREE Masterclass – YOU Can Write a Life-Changing Book! Looking for a coach to help you realize your dreams? Click here to schedule a Miracle Meeting with me If you love the image on the wall behind me of Mother Mary Blessing the World, you can order your own museum quality copy at www.deepaliu.com  

Sermon Overview: This week Jesus' sharp words expose our desire to pursue comfort and avoid pain at all costs. Jesus explains that following him will be hard. Jesus' disciples will be called to let go of things they love and embrace things we naturally loathe. Jesus promises that discipleship comes with crosses—a unique type of pain. So, Jesus tells us that we must count the cost of following him. He wants us to do that now, ahead of time, rather than waiting until we are in the heat of the moment and emotions are running high. However, our calculations must not only consider what we might give up for Jesus. They also entail calculating what we get through him! When we perceive the infinite blessings we find in Christ, the decisions we just make, while difficult, will be clear. Whatever is lost as we follow Jesus pales in comparison to what we gain. Love the Lord your God, walk in his ways, and keep his commandments, his statutes, and his ordinances. (Deuteronomy 30:16) Amen.George Armstrong Custer had not lost a battle he had fought in during the American Civil War or in the American Indian Wars. Until … the Battle of the Little Bighorn. There Custer met a combined force of Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes led by Crazy Horse and Chief Gall.The U.S. 7th Calvary, a force of 700 men went up against a force of between 1500 to 2500 Indian warriors. Even though they were outnumbered more than 2 to 1, the Army troops had guns and bullets versus the arrows and spears of the Indians.Custer made several mistakes that led to his only and lasting defeat. He didn't send advanced scouts because he was afraid of giving away his position. Without proper reconnaissance, Custer didn't know the exact size or location of the Indian village or the number of Indian warriors. (I don't know if you've ever noticed this, but the West can have some pretty wide-open spaces.)Custer could go for days without food or sleep. His soldiers and their horses could not. Custer had force-marched his troops through the mountains to reach the village quickly. His men and horses were exhausted and not in peak fighting condition for battle.Perhaps the biggest mistake Custer made was dividing his 700 men into three battalions. He sent Major Marcus Reno to attack the southern end of the village with three companies of 140 men. Custer sent Captain Frederick Benteen to scout and prevent the escape of the Indians to the south with three companies of 125 men. Custer led five companies with 210 men.At the Battle of the Little Bighorn, Lt. Col. Custer was killed, along with 268 soldiers, with another 55 severely wounded.At the Battle of the Little Bighorn, Lt. Col. Custer lost his life and the lives of so many soldiers because he did not count the cost – the cost of sending out scouts, of taking a day to rest, and especially keeping his forces together.Today Jesus tells you to count the cost of following him. He says, "For which of you, if he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, everyone who sees it will begin to ridicule him, saying, 'This fellow began to build, but was not able to finish.' Or what king, as he goes out to confront another king in war, will not first sit down and consider if he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? And if he is not able, he sends out a delegation and asks for terms of peace while his opponent is still far away" (Luke 14:28-32). Jesus gives two rhetorical parables about counting the cost of following him. Who builds a tower without making sure he has enough money to finish the project? What king goes to war without calculating whether his force can defeat the opposing king's forces? Jesus summarizes his point in these parables saying, "So then, any one of you who does not say farewell to all his own possessions cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33).Either you are willing to give it all up for Jesus – family, friends, possessions, freedom, even life – or you cannot be his disciple.Jesus gives us a good reminder that following him comes at a cost. Having a close relationship with Jesus will cost us time, money, promotions, family, freedom, and much more. It could cost a relationship with a future spouse because you disagree on Jesus, his Word, and his Sacraments. It could cost you a relationship with your child when you called him to repentance for moving in with his girlfriend. It could cost you a relationship with your daughter when you remind her of the importance of baptizing your grandbabies. It could cost you a relationship with your extended family because you won't celebrate your niece's abortion, but instead counseled her to give the baby up for adoption. It could cost you a relationship with your parents when you try to honor them by telling them it's time to move into an assisted living place, but they think you're being disrespectful because they're stubborn and ornery.It could cost you your job when you refuse to put your preferred pronouns in your email signature. It could cost you your education because you refuse to keep your hand down and mouth shut when your college professor spouts Woke nonsense. It could cost you friendships because your Christian beliefs influence your political beliefs, and you aren't shy about sharing either one.Jesus tells us that we must count the cost of losing relationships with those we love so we make sure to hold onto the relationship with the God who loves us more. "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and follow me cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:26-27).When Jesus says to "hate" your family members, the Greek word doesn't carry the emotion of our English word "hate." A close parallel would be "renounce." We must be willing to renounce any relationships that might interfere with our relationship with Jesus.But that's hard, isn't it? We don't like hard. We prefer easy, manageable, and convenient. We'll hike as long as it's fairly flat. We'll bike, as long as it's not with Pastor Zarling. We'll travel some distance for God, but not as far as Abram did in the Old Testament. We'll carry a cross for Jesus, as long as it doesn't hurt too badly. We'll work together in the church, until someone disagrees with our ideas. We'll worship, as long as the service is under an hour. We'll support the ministry of the church, as long as we have enough for our personal expenses and entertainment. We like the pastor's sermons to be relevant, as long they don't hit too close to home. We are committed to God, as long as it all fits into our packed schedule.We've counted the cost, haven't we? If following Jesus doesn't cost too much money, too much effort, too much time, too much commitment, or too many relationships, then we're fine. But it gets iffy when following Jesus costs too much.We like our Christianity to be easy, manageable, and convenient. We are content with a Christianity with no accountability or requirements. We like our Christianity to be confined to one day a week. We like Christianity that allows us to keep quiet in our culture, keep our head down at work and school, and keep looking the other way as our society promotes the doctrine of demons with so-called "gender-affirming" surgeries, critical theory, and abortion on demand.None of that is true Christianity, though. None of that is what Jesus wants from us.Jesus wants us to put our faith into practice. Like the Lord challenging the Israelites to calculate between life and death. Like St. Paul encouraging his friend, Philemon, to give up the cost of a slave and accept Onesimus as a free man and a brother in Christ. Like Jesus' disciples who had left their boats, their businesses, and their families to follow Jesus. Like two thousand years of martyrs who gave up their lives for Jesus. Like the countless believers through the millennia who were exiled from their community, family, and freedom because they loved Jesus more than their possessions. All because they desired to be Jesus' followers.If you've ever gone hiking with someone more experienced, you will hear them say, "It isn't very far." "It's not too steep." "It's just over the next incline." You realize quickly your "friend" is either lying to you or doesn't know what he's talking about. Jesus is truthful. He's open and honest. He knows what he's talking about when he relates the kind of pain that will accompany following him. Jesus told his disciples of all ages and eras that they are going to suffer in his name. He used the expression, "carry his cross." This cross-carrying entails humiliation, extreme pain, and death. It also implies being treated as a criminal.Why would Jesus' disciples ever want to do that? It's because Jesus has made us disciples into different people. We were once on the road to hell, but now we have the sure promise of eternal life in heaven. We used to live in guilt, but now we live in forgiveness. Being a disciple of Jesus is worth all the suffering. There is glory that will be revealed in us.We are afraid. We are quiet. We want it easy. Let's just admit it … we cannot be the kind of disciples Jesus desires.Except what Jesus desires he also does. Jesus desires us to be his cross-carrying disciples so he makes us his cross-carrying disciples. Not by us volunteering for a cross. But by Jesus placing a cross on our backs. Jesus creates faithful disciples. He changes us into committed Christians.Jesus is speaking to the crowds as he is headed to the cross in Jerusalem. Already from eternity, the Son of God counted the cost. He ran the numbers in collaboration with the Father and the Holy Spirit. He is willing to have his own Father forsake him on the cross. He lays the foundation for the Christian Church upon his death and resurrection. He is the King of Kings who goes into battle against the Prince of this world. It is a battle of the Lion of Judah against the seven-headed red dragon. Jesus is alone – not against 10,000 or 20,000 soldiers, but against a mighty demonic horde from the depths of hell.While the crowds were coming to Jesus to bug him for miracles and divine favors, Jesus wins God's divine favor with the miracle of the Lord of life dying a very human death. While Jesus knows you and I will bug him to make our earthly lives a little more convenient and a lot less stressful, Jesus gives up his life to grant us heavenly lives that will be eternally easy and without stress. Jesus knows how hard it is to renounce our family, friends, or freedom. Yet Jesus renounced it all – family, friends, freedom, glory, power, and his own life. He did this to save humanity. To save you. Jesus counted the cost of your salvation and considered you worth the price of his divine blood.Jesus concludes with, "Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its flavor, how will it become salty again? It is not fit for the soil or for the manure pile. It is thrown away" (Luke 14:34). The American Indians in this area of Wyoming used to get salt form the white alkali on the rims and floors of lakes in the vicinity of Independence Rock. The Indians did not use the salt for preserving meat. Instead, they relied on smoking or drying the meat to make jerky. The Indians would instead use salt for purification rituals, healing, seasoning their food, and for trading. Whether it was in Jesus' time or the time of the American Indians in Central Wyoming, or today, if salt loses its saltiness, then it's useless.With his reference to salt, Jesus is teaching us to persevere and preserve in our faith. If our faith loses its faithfulness, what good is it? If our Christianity is without a cost, how useful is it? If you're looking for easy, Jesus says not to bother following him. Either give it all up or you give up being his disciple. You're either in or you're out. You're either a salty, cross-carrying disciple following Jesus or you're an unsalty, couch potato headed for the manure pile. Our faith functions like salt. It preserves us from corruption and decay. Then we can face each day with fresh confidence.Jesus counted the cost of your salvation and considered you worth the price of his divine life. Now it's on you. Count the cost of faithfully following Jesus. You may lose your relationship with your family, but you retain your relationship with your Savior. You may lose your income or your freedom, but you gain the treasures of heaven and the freedom of forgiveness. You may lose your life, but you have been granted eternal life with Jesus. In these ways, you count the cost and realize you have won everything even as you have lost everything. Amen.Choose life so that you and your descendants may live by loving the Lord your God, by listening to his voice, and by clinging to him. (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20) Amen.View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/count-the-cost/

8/12/25 6am CT Hour - Martha Fernandez-Sardina/ Mark Valencia John, Glen and Sarah chat about President Trump trying to control crime in Washington DC, upcoming Trump and Putin peace talks and vinyl records. Martha speaks to how we can defend the faith like Kolbe did with love and courage and lean on Our Lady. Mark shares the story of his family, wife, 4 children and their unborn baby girl. As they face a challenging medical diagnosis, he explains how they lean on their Catholic faith and the Lord. https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-evas-and-baby-lifesaving-pregnancy-needs?attribution_id=sl:2123726c-c176-4e26-9fb1-7929d28f65f2&lang=en_US&ts=1753126205&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp13_t1-amp14_t2&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&v=amp14_t2MA%20Rundown%20Segments%2020250812.xlsx%20.%20Excel%20.%20Reading%20View%20.%202%20worksheets%20.%20Current%20worksheet%20is%20Segments%20.%20Press%20Alt%20Shift%20A%20for%20accessibility%20help%20. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqoozPw5tgM

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Even the greatest evangelist in Church history made mistakes. In this reflection, we look at the moment St. Paul failed to preach Jesus in Athens—and how that failure shaped his entire mission going forward.   Fr. Hollowell unpacks the two powerful lessons Paul learned after the philosophers of Athens rejected his message: Never be afraid to say the name of Jesus. Never hide the truth about the Cross.   We live in a world that needs to hear the name of Jesus and understand that suffering has meaning. Like St. Paul, we are all called to preach Christ crucified, with boldness and love.  

Msgr. Roger J. Landry Chapel of St. Leonard Wawel Cathedral, Krakow, Poland Beginning of the Tertio Millennio Seminar Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit July 7, 2025 Is 61:1-3.6.8-9, Ps 104, Jn 14:23-26 To listen to an audio recording of today's homily, please click below: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/7.7.25_Homily_1.mp3   The following points were made in the homily: […] The post Responding to the Holy Spirit like St. John Paul II, Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, July 7, 2025 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

Kathryn Johnson and Grace Keating fill in for Jon Justice! Bill Walsh joins in studio and the group discusses the question of the day and Minnesota's version of DOGE. MN Rep. Kristin Robbins joins to discuss fraud prevention and her work ahead of the next legislative session. The group gives their opinions on gaming legislation and planting trees.

If you’ve ever found yourself spiraling after watching a news video, this episode of The Patrick Madrid Show is your spiritual guidance. Be Watchful, Not Paranoid Patrick and Producer Cyrus explore what it means to discern the signs of the times without falling off the deep end into anxiety or conspiracy theories. Yes, we live in crazy times. Yes, there are real threats. Yes, AI can deepfake the Pope now. But that doesn't mean we need to panic. Don’t Believe Everything You See on the Internet Patrick talks about how we're bombarded with fakes and frauds, especially on social media. Be discerning. Check your sources. Here’s how: -Go to Vatican News for real updates from the Church -Stick with trusted Catholic sources like Relevant Radio -Don’t share shocking news until you’ve verified it How to Not Freak Out When the World Is Burning (Spiritually Speaking) Cyrus reminds us: “Go to confession. Get right with God.” That’s the spiritual equivalent of taking out insurance and installing a fire alarm. If you’re in a state of grace, you’ve got nothing to fear. This world isn’t our home. Like St. Teresa of Ávila said: “All things are passing. God never changes.” If you’re still worried? Just remember Padre Pio’s quote: “Pray, hope, and don’t worry.” Don’t believe every headline or deepfake -Stay smart: check sources, especially on Church news -Be ready: Go to Confession, receive the Eucharist, stay rooted in Christ -Remember who wins in the end (Jesus) Pray hard, scroll wisely, and keep your soul squeaky clean. We’ve got work to do, but we’re not doing it alone. Stay faithful, not fearful.

Soren Kornegay is the pastor at Christ the King in Savannah Georgia. https://www.ctksavannah.com

"Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ." Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Mr. Thomas Lackey and Mr. Adam Minihan to discuss how to read the Bible like Jesus, St. Paul, the Early Church Fathers, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Dante!There are four senses: literal, allegorical, moral, and anagogical. The guys explain Divine Authorship, Dante's thesis that you read his Comedy like you Scripture, and then explain each sense and give examples.Check our thegreatbookspodcast.com for resources on the Iliad, Odyssey, Dante's Inferno, and more!Summary: St. Jerome states, “Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ” (CCC 112). In other words, we come to know the reality of Jesus Christ by reading Holy Scripture. Yet, what if we read the Bible incorrectly? If the Scriptures are a source of knowledge about our Lord, would not a wrong reading of the text twist our understanding of Christ? We, especially as moderns, are always in danger of distorting the Gospel to meet our own ideological standards. As Bishop Konderla teaches, “We are called to measure ourselves against the teaching of Christ and His Church, not our own imaginations or standards.” He continues, “We must receive the Jesus Christ who came two-thousand years ago, not create a ‘Jesus' who meets the fashions and fads of this age” (God Builds a House, 6). If we are to discipline ourselves to receive Jesus—and not manufacture a “Jesus”—then a vital part of that reception is a proper understanding of how to know Christ in Holy Scripture. How then does the Church teach us to read Holy Scripture?In the 1300s, the Italian poet Dante Alighieri wrote a letter to his patron, Lord Cangrande della Scala, regarding how one should read the Divine Comedy. His answer was simple: you read the Comedy the same way you read the Bible. In summary of Sacred Tradition, Dante explains that there are four senses or ways to read Holy Scripture: literal and three spiritual ways, i.e., allegorical, moral, and anagogical. These four senses were also taught by St. Thomas Aquinas (STI.1.10) and are contained in the modern Catechism of the Catholic Church (“CCC” 115-19). They represent the time-tested wisdom of the Church on how to come to know and love Jesus Christ through the Holy Scriptures.Let us examine each “sense” of biblical interpretation, how it relates to the others, and how they all draw us into a deeper relationship with our Lord.The literal sense of Scripture is also known as the “historical sense.” St. Thomas notes the literal sense is the meaning the author intended. For example, Dante gives the simple illustration of the passage: “When Israel went out of Egypt.” He observes, “If we look at it from the letter alone it means to us the exit of the Children of Israel from Egypt at the time of Moses.” The literal is simply the intended, historical meaning of a text. It is important, however, to interpret the literal correctly, because “all other senses of Sacred Scripture are based on the literal” (CCC 116). Similarly, Aquinas states that the spiritual sense of Scripture—allegorical, moral, and anagogical—is “based on the literal and presupposes it.” The importance of the literal sense of Scripture as foundational to all other senses emphasizes how vital it is that Catholics read commentaries that are faithful to the magisterium. Like a broken foundation of a home, a slanted literal sense can distort the greater spiritual senses built upon it.The allegorical sense is the first of the three types of the “spiritual sense.” In the...

Like St. Thomas, Each Of Us Have A Call To Faith In The Risen Jesus Who Is Present In The Eucharist.

Have you ever felt like a failure in your faith journey? So did St. Peter. In today's Holy Week reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer explores the bold love, crushing denial, and ultimate redemption of Peter—the rock on which Jesus built His Church.   With relics in hand and a heart full of encouragement, Fr. Meyer invites you to reflect on your own spiritual walk: your dreams, your failures, and the unshakable hope that Jesus has for you.   ✝️ “Do you love me?” Let this question echo through your Holy Week.   #HolyWeek #StPeter #FrMeyer #CatholicFaith #RiseUp #LentReflection #YearOfHope

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran continue their discussion on St. Jacinta's example of sacrifice and suffering, especially during Lent. They explore how St. Jacinta and St. Francisco embraced small sacrifices with love to help save souls and grow closer to God. Learn how we can follow their example by offering up our own sacrifices, like fasting, almsgiving, and prayer, to deepen our spiritual journey this Lent.

Father Hudgins' homily: Strong Like St Joseph

In what ways do you not live like Jesus?  Dave Buehring of Lionshare looks at ways we often do things that the world around us does, and he points us to live in ways that Jesus would, even on this St. Patrick's Day.  As for St. Patrick, who was he?  What was his story.  Carmen helps us know him better! Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here

Fr Josuha Whitehead says our mission centres on being a vibrant community that helps people encounter Jesus. St Joseph exemplifies this through his unwavering love and honour. Like St. Joseph, we are called to become foundations of love for others and fulfill our baptismal commission to make disciples by exercising the virtues of love and honour

This week we welcome Devin Schadt into the pew to discuss the importance of authentic fatherhood, and how embracing the example of St. Joseph can and will transform your life. Devin Schadt is the co-founder of The Fathers of St. Joseph, an apostolate dedicated to the renewal of authentic fatherhood. He is also a host on The Catholic Gentleman podcast. Devin reflects on his faith journey, describing his wayward youth and how God reached him at his lowest point. He explains the four pillars of Josephian Fatherhood—silence, woman, children, and charitable authority—and how they are invaluable tools of sanctity for all fathers and husbands. Check out Devin's new daily Lenten devotional here: https://shop.stewardshipmission.com/products/jesus-way Find more about Devin's apostolate, The Fathers of St. Joseph, here: https://fathersofstjoseph.org/ Listen to The Catholic Gentleman podcast here: https://catholicgentleman.com/ Launch a Life Changing Group for Men in Your Parish! ⛪️ http://www.justaguyinthepew.com Learn more about our pilgrimage: Walk in the Footsteps of St. Paul in Greece and Turkey with John

Msgr. Roger J. Landry Shrine of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, New York February 20, 2025   To listen to an audio recording of this talk, please click below:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/2.20.25_St._Frances_Cabrini_Hero_of_Hope_1.mp3   The outline for tonight’s talk was:  The Jubilee of Hope A response to a time of growing despair The Witness of Heroic Hope in St. […] The post Becoming Heroes of Hope like St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Giving Reason for the Hope Within Us, Shrine of St. Francis Xavier Cabrini, New York, February 20, 2025 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

This week Mother Natalia talks about ruptured relationships and the hurt that comes in that rupture. She talks about offering up relationships to the Lord, recognizing that healing in the relationship may not come in this life, and the desire to have union with everyone in heaven. She links this to Saints Stephen and Paul, who did not have a great relationship on this life, but now through union with God, have an amazing relationship in heaven.Special thanks to Kyle and Drew from Catholic Creator Conference for letting us use their studio while at SEEK. Check out their YouTube pages too! Kyle's Page and Drew's PagePilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

Listen to today's podcast... Ever wondered who St. Nicholas was? There once was a young boy named Nicholas, who was born during the third century. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic. Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating St. Nicholas Day: We could all stand to be a little more like St. Nicholas.  Here is a boy, whose world dramatically changed when his parents died.  He could have let this beat him down. He could have drowned in self-pity.  Instead, he relied on his faith and did whatever he could to help those who were even less fortunate then himself.  Let's get good at turning life around and focusing on what we have, and less on what we have lost or don't have. Today, we have the image of Santa Clause and we give gifts to the people we know and love.  But what about our giving to those less fortunate then ourselves? We are donating less each year. The average annual amount per donor is less than $500 with the median amount under $150. With the economy the way that it is, the demand within most charities has increased while their donations have decreased.  Make a difference in the lives of someone less fortunate than you.  It doesn't take a lot to have a huge impact. In 1998, my youngest son was due to arrive on Christmas Day.  We decided that boy or girl, their name would honour St. Nicholas as he was our blessed gift.  Nickolas arrived safely on December 22. If you like today's resiliency tips, let me know. Don't forget that you can find more tips for building resiliency, by checking out my Live Smart blog at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

In this segment from the Son Rise Morning Show on Sacred Heart Radio, Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. continues the series connecting Advent to the Eucharist and focuses on the connection between the Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, and the Eucharist.Fr. Frank connects St. Joseph to the Eucharist and how he adored the Lord Jesus incarnate in the womb of Mary and beyond. Like St. Joseph, we are called to adore Jesus in the Eucharist and bring others to have encounters with the living Christ.Christmas is the "most wonderful time of the year”: trees are trimmed, presents wrapped, and the chilly air signals the coming season of festive warmth. But did you know we're not really ready for Christmas without first observing a "little Lent?" Advent is one of the highlights of our liturgical year. Every year, at the end of the summer, I begin to yearn for colder days. Then autumn rolls around with the beautiful changing leaves, pumpkin pies, and the days seem to go by quicker and quicker (no thanks to Daylight Saving Time!). Then, just after Thanksgiving, we run right into Advent. Each year, it feels like we are sprinting to get to the holiday season and run right through Christmas and New Years. This year, though, I want to be more intentional about celebrating the joy of Advent and run an Advent Marathon, instead of my usual sprint.Notes:Learn more about Advent hereView Eucharistic Revival ResourcesRead Ad Infinitum blog posts on Advent Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center and you can also listen to his weekly Sunday Gospel reflections. Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube to remain up-to-date on the latest Center resources.

Fr. Roger J. Landry Columbia Catholic Ministry, Notre Dame Church, Manhattan Monday of the 25th Week in Ordinary Time, Year II Memorial of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina September 23, 2024 Prov 3:27-34, Ps 15, Lk 8:16-18   To listen to an audio recording of today's homily, please click below:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/9.23.24_Homily_1.mp3   The following points were […] The post Hearing and Radiating like St. Pio of Pietrelcina, 25th Monday (II), September 23, 2024 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

Hour 3 for 8/27/24 Drew opened the show revealing with St. Faustina said about praying for conversion (:47). Then, Patti Maguire Armstrong discussed how to pray like St. Monica (18:33). Callers shared their stories (30:26) of praying for loved ones (39:00). Finally, Bree Solstad shared her story from porn star to Catholic convert (43:47).  Links:  https://pattimaguirearmstrong.com/ https://x.com/BreeSolstad

8/27/24 6am CT Hour - Suzanne Bilodeau/ Sr. Mary Teresa Bettag   John and Sarah chat about weather, Babe Ruth jersey and peaches.   Suzanne encourages listeners to have persistence in prayer for our children just like St. Monica.   Sr. Mary Teresa explores how easy it is to argue about a great many things in life but how hard it is to argue about the beauty of the world around us that we are drawn to.

Friends of the Rosary, Today is the Memorial of St. Benedict (480-547), who founded the monastic life, rule, and wisdom in Christianity. St. Benedict's intercession can release our faith. His medal reminds us that we are protected by Christ's power. It's one of the oldest and most honored medals used by Christians. It's also a "devil-chasing medal," as it has power against evil. The reverse side of the medal carries the Vade retro Satana ("Begone, Satan!") formula, which Christians have used to ward off evil since the 15th century. The formula is sometimes carried as part of the rosary but is also found individually. Catholics are not permitted to perform exorcisms, but they can use the Saint Benedict Medal, holy water, the crucifix, and other sacramentals to ward off evil. The Saint Benedict Medal in the middle of a Celtic Cross is believed to be a powerful tool against evil influences. Like St. Benedict, we seek the kingdom of God first, while we praise the Lord and integrate Christian values as we journey together. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!St. Benedict, Pray for Us! Come, Holy Spirit, come! To Jesus through Mary! + Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • ⁠July 11, 2024, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

What can you learn from the life of St. Peter? Dr. Edward Sri shares this special episode while on location in Rome, Italy at the Basilica of St. Peter. He provides an overview of some of the significant architectural aspects of the square and the basilica. He also looks at the life of St. Peter to help each of us understand how to approach Jesus and allow him to heal us. Snippet from the Show Trust that God can change you like he changed St. Peter. For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Fr. Roger Landry St. Andrew Church Newtown, Pennsylvania May 30, 2024   https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/5.30.24_St._Andrew_Newtown_1.mp3     The post Bringing People like St. Andrew to the Eucharistic Jesus, St. Andrew’s Church, Newtown, PA, May 30, 2024 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

4/23/24 7am CT Hour - William Albrecht/ Martha Fernandez-Sardina   John, Glen and Sarah chat about campus unrest, latest on the Trump trial and the glory of Table Tennis. William lists and refutes several of the common objections people have to the Catholic Faith. Martha shares how we can and should love like St. Joseph and stay still instead of jumping the gun.

Jay Aruga tells a short story in the life of St. Catherine of Siena where she prayed so hard to save the life of a person who hates her. What lesson can we get from that? This is from her life story from the book below: https://www.amazon.com/Life-St-Catherine-Siena-Accomplishments/dp/0895557614 - - -  The Sentinel Ph:  Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSentinelPh  - - -  You can help SUPPORT THIS PODCAST thru:  Shopee – Arugaan Online Shop: https://shopee.ph/jagaruga  Buying me a coffee thru: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thejayarugashow  GCASH: 09204848046  - - -  Today's Sponsor:  Hallow - Try Hallow's premium contents for FREE: https://hallow.com/jayaruga  - - -  Socials:  Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jagaruga  Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.aruga  Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheJayArugaShow  Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JayAruga  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thejayarugashow/message

In this clip from Annie's conversation with Hans von Spakovsky, Hans gives his thoughts on how to regrow dangerous cities and how it starts with refunding the police.

When seeing green isn't great!  Clint and Jim explore the sin of envy. The Post Sunday Blues: A Preaching Postmortem is where you can go backstage with Liberti Church Collingswood's sermons! Email us your thoughts via postsundayblues@gmail.com.

Amin, Tray, Big Jerv, Jason and Juju are back with friends of the show Glasses Malone and Chase N. Cashe to discuss why black people like St. Patrick's Day so much and Tray wonders if it's white peoples 'freeknik'. WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: Youtube.com/countthedings1 Produced by John Jervay - https://twitter.com/johnjervay Sign up for The Athletic: TheAthletic.com/dings Support us on www.patreon.com/countthedings Find us: www.countthedings.com Social: @countthedings @bommpodcastq Facebook: www.facebook.com/countthedings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Like St. Patrick's snakes, someone is banished from the island.

St Joseph was ready because he always was. He lived ready to fulfil the instructions of the Angel. He was faithful. He is the man of Advent. Being close to him these days will helps us live Advent as we should.