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It is time to soar into the Thirty Fourth episode of the Kink Kloset!Charging into the Kink Kloset riding on the Welsh Dragon is none other than Pendragon Nic! Pendragon Nic grew up in Wales and had his earliest memories of leather from the satchel given to him as a gift where the smell of it permeated throughout his room feeding his curiosity. Leaving Wales as an early adult, Nic ventured down under to Australia where he started a family. It was for many years Nic focused on his family and any development of his kink journey was left just in thought, not to be acted on. One day, Nic finally gave himself the freedom to explore kink and started to embrace what was bubbling deep inside. Since embarking on his kink journey, Nic has become a staple within the Australian kink and fetish community, especially being an active participant at Sydney events. In 2023, Nic felt it was time to step within the community and was successful in becoming the 2023 Pride of The Hide and has took the title in his stride.Pendragon Nic's kink journey has not always been smooth sailing. Unfortunately Nic has been through tough experiences which he wishes no other kinksters to go through (TW: abuse). To his strength, Nic has shown outstanding resilience by channeling his community work into charities and community programs to help combat abuse and help with sex education. Beyond his community work, Nic has been one of the most visible titleholders of his cohort, with one of the highest event attendance and ability to show visibility in alternative kink events which has fostered greater collaboration within the community. Nic has been a fantastic advocate for The Hide as the 2023 Pride of The Hide, and looks forward to representing The Hide on the international stage this coming May in Chicago for the 47th International Mr Leather competition.
Welcome to our One Hundredth and Thirty-Fourth episode!Our podcast is dedicated to our favourite tabletop game, Dice Masters.Pour your favourite beverage, pull up a comfy chair 'cuz we are ready to roll.It's our ANNIVERSARY! and we have some news!Until next time, on a Double Double ‘n Dice!--------------The following music was used for this media project:Music: Lobby Time by Kevin MacLeodFree download: https://filmmusic.io/song/3986-lobby-timeLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseMusic: Play A Little Game (DECISION)Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/249-play-a-little-game-decision--------------Contact us: tripledpodcast@dm-north.comCheck us out on www.dm-north.comSupport us at ko-fi.com/dmnorthtvJoin the dmNorthTV DiscordNeed a dice bag? Contact Jocelyn and/or visit JoceStitch Etsy store
It's our final one of the year. Wishing you and yours the happiest of holidays, with as few moments of social awkwardness as possible. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Revelation 20: 1-4, 11-21: 2 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 84: 3, 4, 5-6a and 8a Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 21: 29-33 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
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ROSARY - SORROWFUL MYSTERIES today. DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Friday.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Revelation 20: 1-4, 11-21: 2 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 84: 3, 4, 5-6a and 8a Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 21: 29-33 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Read the signs...they are everywhere!
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday / Thanksgiving Day/ Ordinary First Reading: Revelation 18: 1-2, 21-23; 19: 1-3, 9a Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 100: 2, 3, 4, 5 Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 21: 20-28 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Read Online“Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Luke 21:32–33 As we approach the final days of this liturgical year, we continue to read about the end of the world. Today we read that both Heaven and earth, as they currently are, will pass away. This is worth pondering.We know that life is full of change. It has been said that the one thing that never changes is change itself. Everything else changes. But when it comes to earth, it is hard to believe that it will one day “pass away.” Some scientists believe that the earth has existed for over four and a half billion years. That's a long time! Now consider the fact that Jesus prophesied the end of this earth as we know it today. When will it happen? Only God knows.Heaven, as it exists today, is also prophesied by our Lord to pass away. Heaven, as it is right now, is a pure spiritual reality in which the only corporeal bodies present are those of Jesus and our Blessed Mother. The rest of Heaven consists of the Divine Essence, the souls of those who have been redeemed and the angels of God. But if Heaven even passes away, what awaits?First of all, the only reason that these two realities, Heaven and earth, will pass away in their current form is because, at the Final Judgment, there will be a “New Heavens and a New Earth,” as spoken of in the Book of Revelation. At that time, Heaven and earth will be united as one, and this new creation will exist for eternity.But is there anything that is currently eternal? Anything that will never experience change? We humans will be changed at the resurrection of the dead, the angels will encounter a new home, so to speak, and God will establish a new and permanent Kingship. But, according to Jesus' teaching today, the one thing that will remain are His words: “...my words will not pass away.” Again, this is worth pondering.In a world filled with change and uncertainty, we need some form of stability. And that stability is the Truth found in the Word of God. The Word of God, as revealed to us through the Scriptures, must become our rock foundation upon which our whole lives are built and exist. Pondering, praying with, meditating on, and believing the Word of God enables us to stand on firm and unchanging spiritual ground as we go through the change of this life and even the changes that will come at the end of time. Though this may seem somewhat mysterious in nature, it is a helpful truth to understand and believe. Everything will pass away except Jesus' words. Thus, the most secure thing we can do in life is to cling to His words and never let go.Reflect, today, upon the importance of truly immersing yourself in the Word of God. How much time do you spend each week reading it, praying with it and allowing it to become your daily food? The Word of God is not simply a book of teachings meant to inspire you or guide you. The Word of God is a Living Word. It is God in His unchangeable form. God, in His essence, will never change, and engaging Him through the revelation of His written Word is one essential way by which you will be able to experience true stability in life and prepare for each and every change to come until the final order of life is permanently established.My Eternal Word, You are unchanging and eternal. You are the rock foundation upon which I must always rely. As I continue to experience the many changes encountered in this life, please enter my soul through Your written Word, so that I will find the stability I need. As I stand firm in You, I look forward with joy to the New Heavens and New Earth that await. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: by readerjoseph from Pixabay
ROSARY - LUMINOUS MYSTERIES today. DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Thursday.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday / Thanksgiving Day/ Ordinary First Reading: Revelation 18: 1-2, 21-23; 19: 1-3, 9a Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 100: 2, 3, 4, 5 Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 21: 20-28 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
From the responsorial psalm: "Blessed they who dwell in your house! continually they praise you. Blessed the men whose strength you are! They go from strength to strength. Here God lives among his people." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:28) Jesus told his disciples a parable. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Jesus describes what the coming of the kingdom of God looks like in a tender comparison of the fig tree and all other trees. It buds and yet is to bud. Already here and yet to be, its coming looks like all the opening up to warmth and new life that summer brings. The generation in which Jesus spoke these words has passed away, but the kingdom was present then, is here now, and is yet to open wider. "Jesus Christ," Saint Paul says, "is the same yesterday, and today, and forever." God, just as the buds of the fig tree burst open, let the coming of your kingdom work in me to bud and bring new life. The psalmist prays "Here God lives among his people." Already here and yet to come, your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. Let me remember throughout the day to radiate your love and praise you. Give me the opportunity to show others whose strength it is—from strength to strength—that finds a home in a soul that cries out for the living God. Lord, keep me in your kingdom as I seek to remain in you for eternal life. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Revelation 15: 1-4 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 7-8, 9 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 12-19 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Read Online“And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.” Luke 21:28This passage above concludes a series of teachings by Jesus on the suffering and persecution that will come in this world. But His teachings conclude with this line above, which offers great hope in anticipation of Jesus' return in glory. This passage speaks of the prophetic vision of Daniel (Daniel 7:13–14) that terrified Daniel when he saw it. He witnessed the great persecution to come, as well as the destruction of all evil that will accompany the return of the Son of Man.When you think about both the final coming of Christ as well as your own future death, what comes to mind? If you were informed by an angel that tomorrow would be that day, the day that the Son of Man would return in all His splendor and glory to bring about an end to this world and to issue forth His judgment upon it, how would you react? Would you be terrified? Overjoyed? Hopeful? Confused? Perhaps a little of each of these reactions would be present. Of this time, Jesus said that “nations would be in dismay” and that “People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming into the world.” So what is your reaction to this promised day of our Lord?Those who “die of fright” are clearly those who will experience this day completely unprepared. Meeting the Son of Man, the Son of God, the Savior of the World and the Eternal Judge when you are completely unprepared should be frightful. Imagine, for example, that you were hosting a large dinner party and you got your days mixed up. The day arrived and you weren't expecting anyone until the following week, but the guests started to arrive in great numbers. Imagine your anxiety and embarrassment. Such an experience would be nothing compared to being unprepared for the judgment of Christ when we stand before Him at the time of our death and then at the Final Judgment at the end of the world.The good news is that on that day, for those who are truly prepared through a life of faith and selfless service of God's will, they are told to “stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.” If you do all you can to prepare for that day, then it will be a day in which you anticipate with the utmost hope and excitement. You will indeed be able to stand erect, turn your eyes to the coming Judge of All, and receive the eternal reward that He so deeply desires to bestow. But this will be your experience only if you are truly ready for that day through a life lived in complete imitation of Christ. Reflect, today, upon that final day. Imagine every person ever created standing before the Judgment Seat of Christ. Every sin and every virtue will be made manifest on that day. The minds and hearts of all will be seen in the light as they are revealed to all by God. And those who have lived lives of fidelity will rejoice as they see God's justice and His mercy unite as His judgments are issued forth. If this day is one that frightens you, consider the reasons why. If you do not look forward to this definitive moment in time, then perhaps you need to ponder more deeply those things you need to do so as to be fully prepared. Prepare yourself today. Do not wait. Our Lord could return at any time. Do not be caught off guard. My eternal Judge, You promise to return to earth at a definitive moment in time to bring about the fullness of justice. May I always be prepared for that day through a life lived in union with You and Your holy will. I pray for that day to come quickly, dear Lord, and that all Your children will be ready to meet You when You come. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: The Last Judgement by Jose Luiz, via Wikimedia Commons
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ROSARY - GLORIOUS MYSTERIES today. DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Wednesday.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Revelation 15: 1-4 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 7-8, 9 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 12-19 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The Lord is always near!
From the responsorial psalm: "Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. Blessed are they who are called to the wedding feast of the Lamb." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:20-28) "And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.” Jesus describes to the disciples the destruction of Jerusalem, which took place in A.D. 70. Luke's Gospel, written several years later, relates what had already taken place. What Jesus predicts about Jerusalem gives assurance to the disciples that the final judgment will also be fulfilled. In Jesus' words, "a terrible calamity will come upon the earth and a wrathful judgment upon his people. . . . People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world." As difficult as this time is to imagine—nations in dismay and terrible signs on earth and in the sky—Jesus will come with "power and great glory" as our hope and redeemer comes to call us to the "wedding feast of the Lamb." God, in the midst of the greatest distress you are not absent to your people but here among us in the risen Christ, who will come again to judge the living and the dead. Help me trust in you and remain steadfast in the trials of daily life and in preparation for the fulfillment of your kingdom in the Second Coming of Jesus. Keep me in your care, Lord, let me be grateful for the many blessings of each day. On Thanksgiving Day, grant me the grace to be a means of hope and love, especially for those in distress who most need your mercy. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Revelation 14: 14-19 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 96: 10, 11-12, 13 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 5-11 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Read Online“Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.” Luke 21:14–15This line is embedded in today's Gospel in which Jesus makes it clear that His followers will be persecuted. Many of them will be seized, sent to prison, hated and even be put to death. For some, this will even happen at the hands of their own family. But Jesus tells them this to prepare them and to let them know that these persecutions will enable them to give testimony to Jesus. The Gospel passage above explains how they are to do this.First of all, giving “testimony” especially means they are to be a witness to Christ. And one of the best ways such a witness is fulfilled is through the various forms of martyrdom. To be a martyr is to be a witness. And those who suffer persecution for the sake of Christ, and then respond to that persecution in accord with the wisdom and inspiration of Jesus, are true martyrs. It's helpful to note that if one is persecuted and responds with anger or returns the violence in accord with their own irrational will, then they are no martyr. They simply become what they have received. They become angry and bitter people. Being a martyr requires both unjust treatment and a response to that mistreatment in accord with God's will. For that reason, though persecution is never initiated by God, it does offer the Christian an opportunity to deeply conform themself to Christ by responding as He dictates.Jesus says that responding to persecution requires that we not prepare a defense beforehand. In part, this is because there is great temptation one experiences when persecuted by another. It is very understandable that when a person experiences persecution in any way, they will encounter anger and be tempted to fight back in a way that is uncharitable and only furthers the disorder. Responding to persecution in accord with the will of God requires great attentiveness to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, great humility, and unwavering charity directed at the one doing the persecution. Therefore, Jesus makes the promise that He will be with you in such situations and will give you “a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.” What a grace! But this grace is only available to those who rely completely upon Christ, and not upon their own disordered passions and emotions. Reflect, today, upon this promise from Jesus. Some will encounter little persecution in their lives at various times. But others will encounter severe persecution in various ways, even from their family. Reflect upon any ways that you have experienced the unjust treatment of another and then reflect upon your response. Were you able to immediately forgive? Were you able to set aside your anger, wounded pride and desire for revenge? Were you able to keep your eyes on Christ and rejoice that you have been found worthy to share in the ridicule, persecutions and sufferings that Jesus endured? Pray that you will always be open to the grace of this promise of Jesus so that you will always respond to everyone in accord with the wisdom of God.My persecuted Lord, though You were perfect in every way, You endured much cruelty in Your earthly life. The injustice You endured is beyond our comprehension. But Your response to such persecution was perfect. You were able to transform all ill-treatment into grace and mercy, offered especially for those who mistreated You. Give me the grace I need to imitate Your perfect response and to always rely upon Your wisdom and guidance alone. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: Christ and Pilate by an anonymous disciple of Gerard David, via Wikimedia Commons
ROSARY - SORROWFUL MYSTERIES today. DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Tuesday.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Revelation 14: 14-19 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 96: 10, 11-12, 13 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 5-11 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Trust in God over everything else in your life!
Homily by Fr. Michael Renninger
From the responsorial psalm: "Before the LORD, for he comes, for he comes to rule the earth; He will rule the world with justice and the peoples with equity. Great and wonderful are all your works, Lord, mighty God!" A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:12-19) "Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” Jesus speaks to the crowd about the cost of discipleship. In following him and because of his name, Jesus tells the crowd, "It will lead you to your giving testimony." The wisdom in speaking that Jesus himself gives us does not come in silence and in keeping quiet but in giving testimony to him and in persevering. Because of his name, betrayal and hatred from those closest to us and those with worldly power is a real possibility. In this instance, our defense and freedom as disciples of Christ will not be through intellectual readiness or intensive training but through his supernatural gift of wisdom. “Great and wonderful are your works, Lord God almighty!" Lead us to giving testimony to you. God, help me remain faithful to you today and every day. I survey what lies before me today and hope for greatness in doing your will yet feel small in recognizing the limitations of my own powers. Give me the opportunity today to give testimony to Jesus Christ your Son and the wisdom to act according to your will. The path of discipleship leads toward the grasp of persecutors who silence and kill those who proclaim your great and wonderful works. Yet, your wisdom speaks through those who love you, and not a hair on their head will be destroyed. Keep me in your care, Lord; secure me for eternal life. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Jeffrey Morrow. Ordinary Weekday/ Catherine of Alexandria, Virgin, Martyr First Reading: Revelation 14: 1-3, 4b-5 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 24: 1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6 Alleluia: Matthew 24: 42a, 44 Gospel: Luke 21: 1-4 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Read OnlineWhile some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here—the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” Luke 21:5–6In a literal way, this prophecy of our Lord came true. In 70 A.D., the Temple upon which they were commenting was destroyed. After prophesying this, Jesus then goes on to warn the disciples that there will be many confusions that will come. There will be false prophets, wars and insurrections, powerful earthquakes, famines, plagues, “and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.” Why does Jesus prophesy all of these things?The answer was simple. He was not trying to scare them. He was not simply trying to satisfy their curiosity. Instead, He was warning them and preparing us all so that we do not become misled or terrified when they come. He says, “See that you not be deceived” and “do not be terrified.”As the old saying goes, “Life is not a bowl of cherries.” While we live in this fallen world, chaos, confusion, deception, abuse, scandal, conflict and the like will be all around us. And when we do come face-to-face with any such difficulty, there is a temptation to fear, anger and despair. Be it family conflicts, civil unrest or even divisions within the Church itself, God wants us to remain at peace and to trust Him always.Take Jesus' own life as an example. He was arrested, falsely accused, sentenced to death and crucified. And through it all, He remained at peace, knowing that His suffering would become the very source of new life. God can use all things for good for those who love and serve Him.Reflect, today, upon the undeniable fact that your life will involve difficulty. Sometimes that difficulty is self-imposed as a result of your sin, and sometimes it is unjustly imposed on account of the sin of another. Truth be told, we should only be concerned about our own sin. If other challenges come your way that are out of your control, then use those challenges as opportunities to trust. Entrust all things to God, every suffering, every persecution, every tragedy, every struggle, everything. If God the Father could bring about the greatest good ever known through the brutal murder of His own divine Son, then He can certainly do the same with all that you offer to Him in trust. Trust at all times and in all circumstances, and our all-powerful Lord will bring good from everything.My most powerful Lord, You warned us of the many hardships that would come our way before Your glorious return. You did so to help prepare us and to strengthen us in those moments of testing. Please give me the grace I need to always trust in You and to surrender over to You every cross I carry. I do believe, dear Lord, that You can bring good from everything, even those things that are most difficult in life. Jesus, I trust in You. Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: Jesus teaches in the Temple by Jan van Orley, via Wikimedia Commons
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Jeffrey Morrow. Ordinary Weekday/ Catherine of Alexandria, Virgin, Martyr First Reading: Revelation 14: 1-3, 4b-5 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 24: 1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6 Alleluia: Matthew 24: 42a, 44 Gospel: Luke 21: 1-4 Our biggest sale of the year is here! For a limited time you can get: 20% off of all of our books A FREE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible and $100 off our All-Access Membership 50% off our complete Journey Through Scripture DVD set All promotions are valid from November 22 until December 2, 2024. no refunds available for purchases made before or after the dates specified. Don't wait! To shop our books click here: https://stpaulcenter.com/emmaus-road-publishing/ To get your free Study Bible visit: https://stpaulcenter.com/bible/#memberships To check out our DVD set, check out this link: https://stpaulcenter.com/complete-journey/ In Walking with the Holy Family—a free 32-day Advent series from the St. Paul Center—you'll explore the key messianic promises of the Old Testament, their typological fulfillment in Christ, and how we continue to live this time of fulfillment in the Church today. This daily reflection series begins December 1st, so sign up now and start this sacred journey with us at StPaulCenter.com/Advent. Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Give from your heart , not your surplus!
From the responsorial psalm: "Say among the nations: The LORD is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity. The Lord comes to judge the earth." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:5-11) Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,' and ‘The time has come.' Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” Jesus observes some people who are speaking about the beautifully adorned temple, its votive offerings, and its costly stones. When Jesus tells them that the days will come when nothing of the temple will be left, they question when this will happen. Turning their attention away from the visible world, Jesus begins to speak of a time and place apart from the present. As much as God is outside of time, so is the kingdom of God; it is already hear and yet to be. The deceiving voices who say they know when the time will come don't know. Jesus describes what could very well be the present with its wars and insurrections, nation fighting against nation, and global catastrophes. Yet, he also speaks specifically of the final judgment, a time of awesome sights and mighty signs, and as John describes, "sitting on the cloud one who looked like a son of man with a gold crown on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand." In turning our attention away from the present and toward the end times, Jesus invites us to behold a new creation and, ultimately, the realization of God's promises. God, before the day unfolds at a pace I struggle to derive meaning from, let me remember what Jesus did in turning the gaze of the people away from the realities and things of the present. First, I hear Jesus say, "See that you not be deceived." Give me the grace, Lord, to hear you and tune out the voices draw attention to themselves and lead me away from you. Your kingdom is here right now, and Jesus is present today in the scriptures and in the sacraments. Give me wisdom to put my trust there and not take the things of this world or its agendas so seriously. The Gospel acclamation reminds in a few words what the gift of time on earth is for: "Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support
Read Online“I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” Luke 21:3–4We must all see ourselves as this poor widow by offering our “whole livelihood” to Christ. Everything we have is a gift from God, and it must be offered back to God, sacrificially, as our gift to Him. The material offering made by this poor widow was two small coins worth very little. The truth is that even if you were the richest person in the world and donated all that you had to God, it would greatly pale in comparison to the gift given to us by our Lord. We are all poor in the big picture of God's grace and His Kingdom. The most any one of us can offer is symbolized by these two small coins.As you look at your own life, how willing are you to give everything you have to our Lord for His glory and service? The only appropriate “offering” we are called to give to our Lord is the “sacrifice” of our entire life. This spiritual truth is something very difficult for those who are very wealthy in the things of this world. Material wealth offers an easy way to live in comfort. Money can provide every modern convenience, entertainment, fun, worldly security and much of what this world has to offer. But money cannot buy fulfillment. It cannot satisfy us in the truest sense. This is why many people who live very luxurious lives are not truly happy.Happiness is found in sacrifice. Specifically, it is found in sacrificial love by which we dedicate everything we are and all that we have to the sole purpose of the glory of God and the furtherment of His Kingdom. Sadly, when one is rich in the things of this world, it is easy to think that offering a portion of their wealth, such as a tithe, means that they can keep and use the rest any way they want. But that's not true. Giving of ourselves completely to God and to His service does not necessarily mean that we donate all of our money to the Church. But it does mean that we offer everything to God. For many, when this complete offering is done every day, God will lead them to use their material resources for the raising of their family, to take care of their basic needs, and, at times, to even enjoy various comforts in life. But the real question is whether or not you truly live as though all you have and all you are is God's and is to be used for His glory and the furtherment of His will.Reflect, today, upon this poor widow. She was greatly blessed to have very little. This made it easier for her to remain detached from money and other forms of material wealth. And in that detachment, she gave all to God. She entrusted all to Him, and Jesus noticed and praised her. Reflect upon our Lord's reaction to you and to the offering of your life to Him. If you are holding back from our Lord, then use the witness of this poor widow to inspire you to daily dedicate everything to the service of God in accord with His holy will. My wealthy Lord, Your riches are all that matter in life. You bestow the riches of eternal salvation and countless other graces upon those who have given all to You. I do give my life to You, dear Lord. I give all that I have and all that I am. Please receive the offering of my life and use me in accord with Your holy will. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: She Gave All She Had, via flickr
From the responsorial psalm: "The LORD's are the earth and its fullness; the world and those who dwell in it. For he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:1-4) When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” The eyes of Jesus fall on the wealthy and the poor widow, but as the Son of God he knows their hearts and judges them perfectly. The value of the offerings from their surplus wealth and from her whole livelihood differ. Jesus begins by saying, "I tell you truly." In speaking truly, the author of reality describes the offerings as they really are and not as society views them. In what actually matters, the poor widow is spiritually wealthy and the wealthy people live a life of poverty. What gives value to the two small coins is the act of faith and trust in God that Jesus reads in her heart. In giving everything she has to God, she desires not what is vain but longs to see the face of God. God, just as Jesus observes what the wealthy people and the widow put into the treasury, let me open my heart to him to see what I put in. Please guide me in recognizing the value of money and material things in relation to faith. If I have enough material wealth, help me see this as a gift that is returned to you as I give it away to others. Even more, what does it take for me to be confident enough to trust you with my whole livelihood? How willing am I to give you all of what I believe sustains and supports me? Strengthen me, Lord, to give glory to you as I offer to others the gifts you gave me first. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ," Saint Paul reminds us, "who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens." Saint Catherine of Alexandria, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support