S14 E6 - A Time of Renewal (Lent Week 1: True Self-Denial)

In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of true self-denial. We reflect on the importance of recognizing our need for God’s love and allowing ourselves to be transformed by His grace. We also share personal experiences and insights on repentance, amendment, and trusting in God’s plan especially when the desires of our heart are not being fulfilled. We end by discussing the joys that can come from Lent when approached with a tender, sensitive, and alert heart. 

 

Heather’s One Thing - Lenten Playlist

Heather’s Other One Thing - The talk Joy, Hope, and the Way Around by Monsignor Shea

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The Pints with Aquinas episode on Transhumanism and Emerging Technologies w/ Fr. Michael Baggot (Watch on YouTube here)

Michelle’s One Thing - The book A Grand Slam for God: A Journey from Baseball Star to Catholic Priest by Fr. Burke Masters

 

Journal Questions:

  • Have I ever approached Lent with a sense of wonder?
  • How have I approached Lent with self hatred in the past?
  • What parts of myself are the stranger I need to welcome home and allow the Father to love?
  • How can I be more open to God as the Divine Interruptor?

 

Discussion Questions:

  • Where are you hungry? Where are others in your life hungry?
  • Who in your life is the stranger you need to welcome?
  • Do you believe something wonderful can happen this Lent?
  • Where have you become resigned and hard of heart instead of tender and sensitive?

 

Quotes to Ponder:

The Church is a very vibrant Mother, and she shows us how happy she is about Lent. All through her liturgy there is this mood: something wonderful can happen. All of her prayers and directives are saying, “Please let it happen. Please allow it to happen.”

(Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 37)

 

We are called to a glorious festival of love—to be spiritually dizzied with the fact that this is how much God has loved us. Surely we shall all look at the crucifix with a new vision, a deepened understanding that he really.

(Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 37)

 

Scripture for Lectio: 

“After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”” (Mark 1:14-15)

 

Sponsor - Reform Wellness:

Reform Wellness is a Christ-centered functional medicine and holistic wellness ministry. Reform redefines health as the state of your body and soul. Their mission is to empower the whole person to find well-being in Christ and become the best versions of themselves physically and spiritually. Reform works with private clients, corporate teams, religious communities, and educational institutions worldwide, both in-person and online. They offer valuable information, educational resources, and lifelong tools to improve your well-being.

We invite you to learn more about Reform’s foundational course Reform Online which offers educational tools, best practices, and community through their nine wellness pillars. Reform is extending an exclusive discount for all our listeners on their Lenten Cohort. We highly recommend this three-month foundational course; we’ve each taken Reform Online and still benefit from the fruits in our daily lives. Use code “Abide10'' for your exclusive discount through February 29. 

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