Podcasts about ordinary time year c

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C.Mass Readings:Dt 30;10-14Psalm 69Luke 10;25-37"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#15thsundayinordinarytime #fifteenthsundayinordinarytime #thegoodsamaritan #parableofthegoodsamaritan #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary #catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #awalkintheword#catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

Who is my neighbor? Enjoy this week's homily.

Homily for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time, year C - July 13, 2025 Readings for the Mass: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071325.cfm

Read Online“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” Luke 10:27A scribe asked Jesus what he needed to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus asked the scribe what the Law of Moses taught. The above line was the scribe's response. He was essentially quoting Deuteronomy 6:4, which was a common prayer prayed by the Jews and seen as a summary of the entire Law of Moses as found in the Ten Commandments.Notice that this summary of the Law does not present a negative prohibition such as “Thou shalt not…” Instead, it is a positive command stating, “Thou shalt love…” Love is the fulfillment of the Law of the Old Testament, as well as the fulfillment of the New Law of Christ. When we love God with our whole being, that love overflows upon all of God's creatures, including our neighbor.In this Gospel, the scribe goes on to ask Jesus who His neighbor is. Jesus responds by telling the Parable of the Good Samaritan. In that parable, there was a man beaten and left for dead on the side of the road. A priest and a Levite passed by and ignored the man. But a Samaritan passed by and took care of the man, bringing him to an inn and vowing to pay for his recovery. The story concludes by the Samaritan being identified as the one who acted as a neighbor to the victim.Traditionally, the victim of the robbers in this story has been seen as Adam. Adam represents fallen humanity. The Samaritan represents Jesus who cared for fallen humanity, healed us of sin and provided for our every need. Therefore, according to this parable, Jesus has acted as a neighbor to us, and we must love Him as we love ourselves. But Jesus also says, “Go and do likewise.” This is a commission to fallen humanity, now healed of sin, to go forth to others, acting as Jesus Himself, bringing the healing grace they have been given and bestowing it upon others generously.Sometimes we can see love as a feeling or emotion. Though love is often accompanied by certain emotions and feelings, love is much more. It is an action. In this parable, if the Samaritan simply looked upon the victim and felt sorry for him, had compassion for him but then moved on, he would not have shown love. The love of charity is an action and requires much of us. If we are to fulfill this first and greatest commandment of love of God and neighbor, then we cannot wait until we feel like loving to act. Instead, we must act now and not hesitate. This is love.Reflect, today, upon the true nature of love. Love, in its most elevated form, is the choice to do what is best for others—to help free them from sin and to be an instrument of God's providence in their lives. It's a participation in the very love that God has shown us in Christ Jesus by giving His life for our salvation. We are all called to devote ourselves to this same form of selfless and sacrificial love. Doing so is a requirement for the glorious sharing in eternal life.My loving Lord, You have given everything to fallen humanity. You have freed us from sin and provided for all of our needs. You have acted as a true neighbor in every way. Please give me the grace I need to imitate You and to participate in the love You have for others. May I truly act and never hesitate to bestow on others the charitable love to which I am called. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: African depiction of "The Good Samaritan" by Tim Kubacki, license CC BY 2.0Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

[Luke 10:1-12, 17-20, 14th Sunday in the Ordinary Time Year C]

A homily for the 14th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C 7/6/2025

Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year C - Sunday, July 13, 2025 (EPISODE- 538) Readings for Sunday, July 13, 2025 - Fifteenth Sunday, Ordinary Time. Year C FIRST READING: Deut 30:10-14 Ps 18:8-11 - "The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart." SECOND READING: Col 1:15-20 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 10:25-37). Alleluia, alleluia! Your words, Lord, are spirit and life. You have the words of everlasting life. GOSPEL: Luke 10:25-37 Image Credit: https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/8KFrTYO4Zp8IlhnawO6I/the-good-samaritan?ru=Paul-Evangelion +++++ References: Fr Paul W. Kelly **William Barclay - THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE SERIES. REVISED EDITION. THE GOSPEL OF LUKE. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS. PHILADELPHIA. 1975 Image Credit: https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/8KFrTYO4Zp8IlhnawO6I/the-good-samaritan?ru=Paul-Evangelion ++++++++++++++++++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com To listen to the weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by visting here: https://surfersparadiseparish.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=85b9ddd594b242276d423bfe9&id=002282d9e0 Details relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL) Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers. Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993). (Sydney Australia). Sung "Mass in Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria, Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org. "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - In memory of William John Kelly (1942-2017) - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019. “Quiet Time.” Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020. “Today I Arise” - For Trisha J Kelly. Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019. Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly. Microphones: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser. And (2024+) Rode Nt-1 + AI-1 Sound Mixer. Editing equipment: -- MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software v10.49 (NCH Software). NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 17.63 (NCH Software) Sound Processing: iZotope RX 10 Audio Editor (Izotope Inc.) Text transcription as per recorded podcast version is transcribed by TurboScribe.ai {excellent and accurate transcription from voice to text} [Production - KER - 2025] May God bless and keep you. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C.Mass Readings:Isaiah 66;10-14cPsalm 66Luke 10;1-12, 17-20"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#14thsundayinordinarytime #fourteenthsundayinordinarytime #70disciples #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary #catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #awalkintheword#catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

Homily for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time, year C - July 6, 2025 Readings for the Mass: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070625.cfm

The word of the day is - metanoia homily given at Saint Casimir's Parish, Cleveland, Ohio

Read OnlineAt that time the Lord appointed seventy-two others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. Luke 10:1Jesus had many followers who were deeply devoted to Him, abandoning everything to serve Him and to cooperate in the fulfillment of His mission. Oftentimes we give most of our attention to the Twelve Apostles when we speak of Jesus' first followers. But in today's Gospel, Jesus sent seventy-two disciples to go forth to all the towns that He would soon visit. Think about that for a moment. Seventy-two is quite a few people. These would not have been casual followers of Jesus. Rather, they clearly were people who were all in and fully committed to Christ. To them, Jesus entrusted the mission of preaching and gave them authority over demons.Try to imagine organizing and sending forth seventy-two different people. Jesus would have come to know these disciples personally, witnessed their faith firsthand, taught them at length, and recognized that they were ready to fulfill His sacred mission. We should also presume that there were many others who were His faithful followers but were not yet ready to be entrusted with divine authority and sent on a mission. Thus, the movement that Jesus started was truly transforming for many people during those first years of His public ministry.The same is true for us today. Jesus is not finished sending missionaries on mission. He continues to gather a vast army of servants whom He calls close to Himself, with whom He establishes a very personal relationship, teaches, forms, bestows with special graces and charisms, and then sends forth to continue His apostolic work. Are you among those who are ready to be sent forth by our Lord?One way to test your readiness for the mission of Christ is to consider the command that Jesus gave to these seventy-two. He said in part, “Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way.” In other words, our Lord was telling them that His mission required sacrifice, courage, trust in divine providence, and single-minded determination. His mission is not for the casual follower. It's for those who are serious about their faith and do not hesitate to do all they need to do to get ready to fulfill Jesus' divine command.Reflect, today, upon whether you are ready to fulfill the apostolic mission Jesus wants to entrust to you. Are you willing to sacrifice everything for this mission? Are you courageous enough to do whatever He calls you to do? Do you trust that God will provide for you so that you can accomplish the task He has given to you? And are you single-minded and fully determined? Do not hesitate. Place yourself at the service of our Lord and await His glorious calling in your life.My glorious Lord, You have called countless people to Yourself, formed them by Your grace, bestowed Your gifts upon them and sent them forth to touch many minds and hearts. Please use me, dear Lord, to accomplish the task that You wish to entrust to me. Form me, use me and send me forth as You have done with countless others before me. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Rely on the LordThis 14th Sunday calls our attention to the need for complete dependence on God, which leads to a positive transformation in our lives. The dependence expresses itself through the attitudes of hope, faith and loving generosity described in the readings. Our names are written in heaven. Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070625.cfm

Homily Fourteenth Sunday of the Year C - Sunday, July 6, 2025 First reading Isaiah 66:10-14. Responsorial Psalm 65:1-7,16,20. “Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.” Second reading. Galatians 6:14-18. Gospel. Luke 10:1-12,17-20. +++++ References: THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE. GOSPEL OF LUKE. (REVISED EDITION). BY WILLIAM BARCLAY.Fr Paul W. Kelly Sharing the Word through the Liturgical Year: (1997). Gustavo Gutierrez Fr paul w kelly Also, Prologue: (scripture scholar William Barclay, as cited above): “The first disciples are sent out on their first missionary assignment as raw recruits, with little to help them, but the lessons they learn here will be greatly needed later. Whatever we seek to achieve in Jesus' name, we are indeed doing it in the name of Jesus... not in our names or by our powers of talents....// We receive the assistance we need. Jesus reminds us that the crucial factor is not that we are personally powerful or that we are successful. What really matters is that we are doing the will of God, in Jesus' name, and it is this which is the reason for our ultimate salvation.” [Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1901120383 - walking on old cobblestone street - Photo Contributor: Matej Kastelic] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PREFACE: Ordinary 7 Eucharistic Prayer 2 (theme variation: theme 4 ) (post version: v2-short) ++++ {15. Thank you for giving generously of your time and prayer.} 4. Go in peace. ++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com To listen to the weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by visiting here: https://surfersparadiseparish.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=85b9ddd594b242276d423bfe9&id=002282d9e0 Details relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL) Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers. Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993). (Sydney, Australia). Sung "Mass in Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria, Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org. "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - In memory of William John Kelly (1942-2017) - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019. “Quiet Time.” Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020. “Today I Arise” - For Trisha J Kelly. Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019. Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly. Microphones: - Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser. And (2024+) Rode Nt-1 + AI-1 Sound Mixer. Editing equipment: -- MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software v10.49 (NCH Software). NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Master's Edition v 17.63 (NCH Software) Sound Processing: iZotope RX 10 Audio Editor (Izotope Inc.) TurboScribe.ai transcribes text as per the recorded podcast version {excellent and accurate transcription from voice to text} - {this is not a paid advertorial- pwk} [Production - KER - 2025] May God bless and keep you.

Luke 12:15 “And he said to them, ‘Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'” Having more possessions makes you happier, right? Not necessarily. Melissa and Veronica take a look at this Sunday's Gospel and explain why sometimes, less is more. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-07-31

Hebrews 12:7 “It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?” Difficult math test + this Sunday's second reading = today's the word on The Word! Confused? Veronica and Melissa explain. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-08-21

Hebrews 12:1 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.” Do you have a favorite saint that you look up to as a role model? Melissa and Veronica analyze why the saints are so great and answer the question of who is the ideal person to imitate. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-08-14

Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” How would you describe the virtue of faith? Veronica and Melissa discuss the story of Abraham and how God stays true to all of His promises. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-08-07 Note: The daily mass from the EWTN Chapel on Sunday, August 7th will celebrate the Diocesan Solemnity of St. John Mary Vianney. The reading discussed in this video is based off the readings in the General Roman Calendar.

Psalm 66:1-2 “Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth; sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise!” Melissa and Veronica talk about their favorite hymns and describe this Sunday's responsorial psalm. Don't forget to tell us your favorite hymn in the comments! For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-07-03

Luke 11:9 “And I tell you, Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Did you know that Jesus taught his disciples the “Our Father” prayer? Veronica and Melissa describe the three episodes of prayer presented to us in this week's Gospel. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-07-24

Luke 10: 41-42 “But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.'” Do you multitask or devote yourself to one thing at a time? Melissa and Veronica tackle the topic of being present in the moment in this week's episode. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-07-17

Luke 10:28-29 “And he said to him, ‘You have answered right; do this, and you will live.' But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?'” So...who is your neighbor? Veronica and Melissa explain one of the keys to inherit eternal life. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-07-10

Luke 9:61-62 “Another said, ‘I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home.' Jesus said to him, ‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.'” Angry apostles? People putting their desires before Jesus? Veronica and Melissa dish out the Gospel and relay Jesus' urgent message to follow him. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-06-26

Wisdom 9:18 ”And thus the paths of those on earth were set right, and men were taught what pleases thee, and were saved by wisdom.” How would you define the word “wisdom”? Veronica and Melissa pull out their dictionary definitions and explain why we need wisdom. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-09-04

Sirach 3:20 “For great is the might of the Lord; he is glorified by the humble.” Is there someone in your life that you think exemplifies the virtue of humility? Melissa and Veronica share who they look up to the most when it comes to being humble. Litany of Humility: ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/litany-of-humility-245 For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-08-28

Psalms 51:3 “Have mercy on me, O God, according to thy steadfast love; according to thy abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.” Many parts of the Bible testify to God's mercy, and the psalm for this Sunday is no different. Join Melissa and Veronica as they reflect on God's abundant mercy. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-09-11

1 Timothy 2:8 “I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling” Sometimes we overcomplicate the simple things in life, even prayer. In this week's episode, Veronica and Melissa consider why it's good to go back to the basics of prayer. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-09-18

1 Timothy 6:12 “Fight the good fight of the faith…” Have you ever been the voice of encouragement to someone in your life? Melissa and Veronica discuss inspiring others and leadership in this week's episode. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-09-25

2 Timothy 1:14 “Guard the truth that has been entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.” Everyone is called to live boldly for Christ. Veronica and Melissa explore what that means for us in the modern world. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-10-02

2 Timothy 1:14 “Guard the truth that has been entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.” Everyone is called to live boldly for Christ. Veronica and Melissa explore what that means for us in the modern world. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-10-02

Exodus 17:11 “Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed; and whenever he lowered his hand, Am'alek prevailed.” At a glance, friendship and battles don't appear to go hand in hand. This week, Veronica and Melissa take a look at the first reading from Exodus and connect the dots between the seemingly unlikely pair of words. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-10-16

Luke 18:14 “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Jesus gives a parable about a tax collector and Pharisee in this Sunday's Gospel. Melissa and Veronica jump back into a student mindset to compare and contrast the two characters. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-10-23

Luke 19:3 “And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature.” Would you climb a tree for the chance to see Jesus? Veronica and Melissa discuss the man who did & what we can learn from his encounter with Jesus. For Sunday's Mass Reading: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-10-30

2 Maccabees 7:2 “One of them, acting as their spokesman, said, ‘What do you intend to ask and learn from us? For we are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our fathers.'” This Sunday, we hear about a family of martyrs from the Old Testament. Melissa and Veronica explain why it's such a profound story. For Sunday's Mass Readings: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-11-06

Luke 21:14-15 “Settle it therefore in your minds, not to meditate beforehand how to answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.” Do you find yourself worrying about the end of time? In this week's episode, Veronica helps Melissa find hope about the coming persecution. For Sunday's Mass Readings: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2022-11-13

A homily for the 3rd Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C

In this homily, Fr. Michael reflects on Jesus' teaching that a tree is known by its fruits. He explores how we often misjudge ourselves, focusing on exterior success instead of the true interior fruits of peace, love, and forgiveness. Through powerful stories of family wounds, forgiveness, and accompanying the dying, he highlights how the spiritual state of our hearts is revealed at life's most critical moments. Are we bearing good fruit—Christ's love—or are we clinging to bitterness? Fr. Michael challenges us to trust God fully, let go of resentment, and conform our hearts to Christ, who forgave even from the Cross.

A homily for the 8th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C 3/2/2025

Read OnlineJesus told his disciples a parable, “Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher.” Luke 6:39–40Are you “fully trained?” What does it mean to be fully trained? Jesus makes it clear that those who are fully trained will be like their teacher. Of course, we must become like our Lord, who is the one and only Teacher. So are you like Him in every way?Being fully trained as a Christian is different than being fully trained in an occupation. For example, a doctor is fully trained when all the necessary lessons are learned and the practical aspects of medicine are put into practice. That is why that person becomes a doctor, just like the doctors who were their teachers. But the Christian life is not something we master by learning many teachings of the faith so that, by our expertise, we can then put them into practice using our natural talents. For a Christian to be fully trained, it is necessary that the Divine Physician fully possess them, live within them, and act through them. Thus, Christian training is the practice of allowing God to become one with you so that it is God Who acts in and through you.This form of “training” first takes on the goal of freeing us from spiritual blindness. We must see Christ and come to know Him. Again, this is not a matter of simply learning various truths about God in an intellectual way. It's a matter of coming to know the Truth Himself. We must see and know the Person Who is Christ Jesus. This is true sight. Blindness, however, can always set in again when we take the eyes of our soul off the Savior.Seeing Christ, however, is not enough. Seeing must be followed by doing. That is why our Lord goes on to say in today's Gospel that “every tree is known by its own fruit” and that a “good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good.” Seeing Christ Himself, within your soul, will produce that “store of goodness,” and this will make you more “fully trained.” Only then can you produce good fruit, for it will be Christ Himself producing the good fruit in and through you.So back to our original question: “Are you fully trained?” Do you daily keep your eyes on a Person, Jesus Himself? And if so, do You allow Him to act in your life and, through you, in the lives of others? If you cannot answer these questions with a confident “Yes,” then you might have more blindness in the spiritual life than you realize. Reflect, today, upon your mission to become a fully trained soldier of Christ. God wants to use you, to live within you, and to act through you. He wants you to be like Him in every way. This is only possible when you admit the blindness with which you struggle, turn your eyes to Him, and allow Him to become one with you. Start by turning to Him as He dwells within you. Search for Him, seek Him, and love Him. If you keep your eyes upon Him, He will carefully take care of the rest, leading you to a fully trained and fruitful life. My divine Teacher, I turn to You, the Lord of all, and seek to fix my gaze upon You. As I see You, please remove my blindness and confusion. In place of these, give me wisdom so that I will always allow You to live in me and act through me, bearing an abundance of good fruit. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jesus tells the Parable of the Barren Tree by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C.Mass Readings:Sirach 27:4-7Psalm 92;1-2, 12-15 Luke 6;39-45"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#eighthsundayinordinarytime #8thsundayinordinarytime #sermonontheplain #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary#catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #awalkintheword#catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

Read Online“But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Luke 6:35–36It is certainly difficult to be “kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.” But doing so is exactly what our Lord commanded us to do. And His command is not a command in the sense of being a burden. On the contrary, it's a command that frees us from the ingratitude and wickedness we encounter.Oftentimes, when we encounter ingratitude from another, or any other form of wickedness, we tend to react in kind. Our fallen human nature lures us into cruelty when faced with cruelty. We criticize, condemn, attack and get angry. But Jesus is very clear that this is not how the “Most High” acts toward the wicked. And it is not how He acts toward us. In the end, the wicked who fail to repent will endure the consequences of their rejection of God's mercy. But until that final judgment, hope of conversion must always be present. And for that reason, we must never give up on another, no matter how difficult. Kindness shown to everyone, in every circumstance, goes to the heart of the mission we have received as children of God.Think about the person in your life who seems unworthy of your kindness and generosity. Why are they undeserving? Are they truly undeserving? The truth, according to our Lord's teaching, is that these are not questions we should even ask ourselves. Instead, we must fully commit ourselves to loving everyone who appears to be our enemy, and do good to them and to everyone whom we encounter. Though this is difficult, it won't be if we understand the goodness that God has shown to us.God has shone us perfect goodness, not because He expected anything back, but simply because He has willed to love us. If we want to be children of God the Most High, then we must reciprocate the love given to us. That's the nature of God's love. It cannot be contained. It cannot be selfishly received without also allowing it to pour forth from our lives. When we understand this, we will understand the reason Jesus instructed us to be “kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.” It is simply because this is how God has treated us. Reflect, today, upon the unlimited love God has for you. It is beyond what you could ever comprehend. Reflect, also, upon the great benefit there is in opening yourself to God's perfect love, kindness, generosity and mercy. The benefit is that you are able to be filled with that which you receive. And as you receive this love of God, it necessarily overflows into the lives of everyone you encounter, the good and the wicked. Everyone must always be offered this love. Do not hesitate, for God does not hesitate with you. Most merciful Lord, You bestow Your abundant goodness upon all people, the good and bad alike. You never cease offering Your love and mercy. May I always be counted among those who fully open themselves to Your grace, and may I always offer this same depth of love to all. 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.Matthias Grünewald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

What Do You Worship? - Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C) by Fr. Josh Waltz

A homily for the 6th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C 2/15/2025

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C.Mass Readings:1 Samuel 26;2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23Psalm 103; 1-4, 8, 10, 12-13Luke 6;27-38"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#seventhsundayinordinarytime #7thsundayinordinarytime #sermonontheplain #beatitudes #loveyourenemies #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary#catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #awalkintheword#catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

In this homily, Fr. Michael unpacks the radical nature of the Beatitudes in the Gospel of Luke. True happiness, he explains, is not found in wealth, success, or external behaviors, but in placing everything in God's hands. Through powerful personal stories, he illustrates how those who let go of worldly attachments and embrace God's love discover the true meaning of blessing. The Beatitudes call us not just to “behave,” but to belong—to God and to His Church. Are we willing to let go and trust that God alone is enough?

Read Online“But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are filled now, for you will be hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will grieve and weep. Woe to you when all speak well of you, for their ancestors treated the false prophets in this way.” Luke 6:24–26Luke 6:20–49 offers us a shortened version of the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew's Gospel. Luke's version of this sermon takes place on a plain, “a stretch of level ground.” The teachings in the two Gospels are very similar, despite their difference in length. Luke's teaching on the Beatitudes adds the “woe to you's” quoted above, which are not found in Matthew's version.The early Church Father Saint Bede comments that Saint Luke's version of the “woes” are meant for those who are “uninstructed hearers” because they “must first be brought by terrors to good works.” He goes on to say that the first part of the Beatitudes, the “blessings,” are meant for the “perfect” because they “need but be invited by rewards” rather than fear of punishment. The fact that Saint Luke includes a teaching for both the sinner and the saint should lead us to the conclusion that we can benefit from both approaches in our spiritual lives.When your spiritual life is strong and you are consistently avoiding serious sin, it might be more helpful to reflect regularly upon the blessings found in the Beatitudes. This will have the effect of drawing you into greater perfection as the desire for the reward of holiness becomes the object of your hope.When your spiritual life is weaker and you are regularly struggling with more serious sin, it might be more helpful to reflect upon the woes of the Beatitudes. This will have the effect of deterring you from the cycle of sin you struggle with, on account of the fear of the consequences of those sins.In the end, the Beatitudes and their subsequent woes are meant to point us interiorly to the desires of our hearts. We must become more and more aware of what occupies our thinking and desires. Ultimately, wealth or poverty, hunger or satisfaction, worldly praise or persecution do not matter. What matters is that our hearts are detached from the desires identified in this sermon so that we more fully desire only God and His holy will, regardless of the circumstances of life we find ourselves in.Reflect, today, upon your own spiritual and moral life and first consider whether you are blessed to be living a life that more imitates the saints or whether you more often reflect the serious struggles of the sinner. From there, try to choose which form of teaching you need the most. Do you need to ponder the rewards of seeking even greater beatitude in life so as to grow deeper in holiness? Or do you need Jesus' clear condemnations to help you break free from the cycle of sin with which you are struggling? Humbly identify that which is most helpful to you right now in your spiritual life and allow this full sermon of Jesus to help you on your journey to the Kingdom of Heaven.Lord of holiness, I do desire to follow You and become truly holy. Please free me from my sin so that I am able to avoid the consequences of those sins. Please help me to also desire the heights of holiness so that I will receive the great rewards that You promised to the saints 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.Boston at English Wikipedia & John Stephen Dwyer, CC BY-SA 3.0

Hello to all.Where I live, we are experiencing the strength of Mother Nature with temperatures below zero degrees.  With even a slight breeze, it can feel much colder.  Certainly a reminder that we are not always in control.  At the same time, there's incredible beauty to be found in God's creation - even during weather extremes.  We simply need to open our eyes and minds to find it all around.God bless.Fr. Kennedy

A homily for the 5th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C 2/9/2025

Read Online After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Simon said in reply, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.” When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing. Luke 5:4–6 Jesus had just cured Simon Peter's mother-in-law as one of His first miracles. As a result of this and other miracles, Peter's entire hometown of Capernaum, as well as many of the surrounding towns, were quickly coming to faith in Jesus. Today's Gospel takes place during this initial excitement over our Lord. In it, Jesus personally invites Peter to become an Apostle, promising to make him a fisher of men.There is much symbolism in this passage worth pondering. First, notice that Jesus uses something very familiar to Peter to invite Him to become one of the Twelve Apostles. He used his trade of fishing. This is similar to the way God used a star to draw the Magi, who were astrologers, to Bethlehem.Another symbolic action Jesus uses is that of putting out “into deep water.” It was not enough to simply go a short distance from shore. Instead, the deep water was to symbolize the fact that the Gospel was to go forth to the ends of the earth, just as the fishermen were to fish in the depths of the sea. Finally, the fact that they “caught a great number of fish” symbolizes the superabundance that would come forth through Peter's apostolic ministry. And the fact that the “nets were tearing” points to the fullness that everyone will experience when they embark upon the mission of Christ.Though the symbolic aspects of this Gospel passage are worth much prayerful pondering, there is another line within the Gospel that might speak to you just as powerfully. Peter had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. The fact that he relates this to Jesus suggests that he was tired and perhaps even discouraged. Any fisherman could relate to this. But the important lesson Peter teaches us is that he does not give in to that discouragement. And the reason he doesn't give in to discouragement is because it was Jesus Who commanded him to lower the nets.In our own lives, we can all get discouraged at times. But the real test of our fidelity to God is whether or not we continue to listen to His commands of love and respond generously, dispelling any temptations to discouragement when things do not seem to be going our way. If we can do this, it is especially in these moments that God often uses us in powerful ways. Reflect, today, upon the voice of God in your life. What is it that you sense Him calling you to do? What is that “deep water” to which He is calling you? As you ponder this, reflect especially upon the words of Peter, “Master…at your command I will lower the nets.” Say “Yes” to the command of our Lord. Do so even if it is difficult, and especially if you do not feel like doing what He asks of you. If you do, you will find that in this act of fidelity, God will bring forth an abundance of good fruit. My miraculous Lord, You gave a command of love to Saint Peter, and he obeyed You with generosity. As a result, You brought forth an abundant catch. Please give me the strength of will to obey all that You speak to me, so that You will bring forth an abundance of good fruit in my life also. 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.Image via Flickr, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Read OnlineJesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region. He taught in their synagogues and was praised by all. Luke 4:14–15This Gospel passage reveals to us the very beginnings of Jesus' public ministry. He began His public ministry immediately after spending forty days in the desert being tempted by the devil. As He began, He went to Galilee “in the power of the Spirit.” Many people heard about Him and welcomed Him with much enthusiasm.Though Jesus was initially welcomed with praise, we know that things quickly changed. Some eventually became so hostile that they put Jesus to death, but it's useful to ponder the initial response He received. This initial response is one that must become continuously new in our lives. The initial response was that He “was praised by all.”Jesus would later teach about this initial experience many would have toward the Gospel when He taught the Parable of the Sower. Recall that the seed that was sown on rocky ground, that fell among thorns, and that was sown in good soil all began to grow. Only that which was sown on the path failed to grow, because the birds came and ate it up. This latter case describes those who are completely indifferent to the Gospel. But in today's Gospel, the “all” are those who at least paid attention and initially responded with enthusiasm. The seed began to grow in these three scenarios—but, of course, in only one of those cases did the seed ultimately bear good fruit.Another way to look at this initial encounter with the Gospel is to consider a child. In almost every case, when a child is presented with the Gospel, they will begin to respond and even find excitement in the faith. But, as many parents have seen, this initial welcome is sometimes followed by a rejection of the Gospel later in life.When did you initially encounter the Gospel? For some it was during childhood. For others, there was a powerful experience of conversion later in life. Think of that initial encounter you had and the ways that you were excited by your newfound faith. Has that experience continued and grown in your life? Or has your initial praise of God and enthusiasm dwindled or even died?Reflect, today, upon the fact that God wants us to continuously experience the Gospel as something new and transforming. The newness of the life of grace must never wear off. Ponder this experience in your life and try to see yourself as one of the people in today's Gospel who heard Jesus for the first time. Ponder their enthusiasm and join in their praise of our Lord so that you will be motivated to let God and the preaching of His holy Word continuously transform you.Glorious Word of God, You have come to set us free by revealing to us Your love and mercy and by bestowing that grace upon us. Please open my mind and heart to Your holy Word so that I will be driven by a holy love to serve and follow You all the days of my life. 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.Featured image above: Christ Reading Isaiah in Synagogue, via flickr

Read OnlineJesus did this as the beginning of his signs at Cana in Galilee and so revealed his glory, and his disciples began to believe in him. John 2:11John's Gospel is commonly divided into four sections: the Prologue, the Book of Signs, the Book of Glory and the Epilogue (which contains the resurrection appearance in Galilee). Today's Gospel comes from the beginning of the Book of Signs, which begins at Chapter 1:19 and continues through Chapter 12. In this section, the Apostle John presents us with seven “signs,” which are seven miracles Jesus performed. Each sign has a deeper spiritual meaning that reveals Jesus' divinity and mission. In many ways, the entire Book of Signs prepares us for the Book of Glory in which Jesus' “hour” of glory is identified with Him taking up His glorious throne of the Cross, fulfilling His mission as the “Lamb of God” Who offers His life for the salvation of all, and pouring forth His grace and mercy from His wounded side.The first of seven signs Jesus performs in John's Gospel is the changing of water into wine at the Wedding of Cana, which was done in superabundance! The six stone jars, filled to the brim with water, were transformed into as much as 180 gallons of the finest wine. The changing of water into wine was done at the request of Jesus' mother, who told the servants to do whatever Jesus told them to do.There is certainly much to ponder in this incredible miracle. One specific thing to consider, as we begin reading the first of these signs, is that Jesus uses His miracles to prepare His disciples for the “hour” of grace and glory that is to come. And though the hour of Jesus has already taken place in time, it's important to understand that each one of us needs to go through the process of preparing for that hour in our own lives. We must let Christ continuously prepare us for the hour of glory by which we receive Him and all the grace He won for us on the Cross. This preparation will take place in our lives, just as it was presented in John's Gospel. Jesus' seven signs, His miraculous actions, were performed to prepare His disciples to receive all that He bestowed on the Cross. We must not only prayerfully reflect upon these signs as recorded by John throughout the year, we must also look for the many personal signs that our Lord gives to each one of us.Just as the participants at the Wedding of Cana were left in amazement at the miracle of Jesus, so we must allow ourselves to become continuously amazed at His action in our lives. The seven signs that are recorded in Scripture, as well as the effect of our spiritual pondering of them, must become beacons of light that prepare us to come to know our Lord more fully and to receive the grace won by His Cross of glory. Reflect, today, upon this, the first of Jesus' signs. Try to meditate upon this story as a way of preparing yourself to receive His grace more fully in your life. Think of the superabundance of the miracle and ponder the fact that it points to the superabundance of grace God wants to give you. Reflect, also, upon the fact that it took place by the intercession of Jesus' dear mother. She also will anticipate your needs and pray for you with her motherly heart. Ponder the beautiful meaning and symbolism in this passage so that you will more fully share in God's abundant glory. My glorious Lord, Your entire earthly life was a preparation for the hour in which You gave Your life as a sacrifice on the Cross for the remission of sins. Please continuously prepare me to receive You more fully and to open my heart to You and all that You have bestowed upon me through Your perfect sacrifice of love. 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.Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay