Discerning Hearts - Catholic Podcasts podcast

#Philosophy #Catholic #Society #Religion #Christianity #Discerning Hearts Catholic #Kris McGregor

18:09

HR is no longer just about managing people—it’s about shaping the future of work. Jens Baier, BCG’s HR transformation expert, discusses how AI and shifting employee expectations are forcing companies to rethink talent strategies. From re-recruiting to upskilling employees, HR must adapt to a rapidly changing landscape. Learn More: Jens Baier: https://on.bcg.com/41ca7Gv BCG on People Strategy: https://on.bcg.com/3QtAjro Decoding Global Talent: https://on.bcg.com/4gUC4IT…

Discerning Hearts - Catholic Podcasts

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Catholic podcasts dedicated to those on the spiritual journey! Offering the best teachings from the rich Catholic Spiritual/Discernment tradition.

50 episodes

Discerning Hearts - Catholic Podcasts

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updated about 19 hours ago

Series home•Feed

Catholic podcasts dedicated to those on the spiritual journey! Offering the best teachings from the rich Catholic Spiritual/Discernment tradition.

50 episodes

#Philosophy #Catholic #Society #Religion #Christianity #Discerning Hearts Catholic #Kris McGregor

All episodes

1
That Great Silence in Storms Midst – Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast 4:55

19 hours ago4:55

4:55

That Great Silence in Storms Midst by Dr. Anthony Lilles The beauty of these 40 days of Lent is that every hardship and trial can be made into an offering of love. If we keep our course, whether anxiety or frustration, disappointment or heartbreak, hidden in the exigencies of the moment is a sacrament, a visible sign of grace, inviting the response of faith, opening to a deeper encounter with the one who longs for our freedom. The challenge is to focus on the Lord’s presence in the midst of the wind and the waves. Turn off every screen and speaker, silence the cell phone in all the talking heads, enough of the candid music and arguments, eyes open, attentive ears, ready heart, abstain, fast and be silent. This is the life vest to put on. Seek an icons glow until heaven finds you for it is not we who make our way to Him so much as He who is set out to rescue his pilgrims in the threatening storm. Days of darkness when nothing makes sense, when evil would seem to have the upper hand, these are taken into account in the gospel in God’s plan. If this is chastisement, then it is long deserved by me more than anyone else. Save the innocent Lord who my own silence has left so vulnerable. It is challenging to walk under the shadow of glory for we must forsake those earthly lights on which we too long relied. Under that shadow, are less for power and gluttonous appetite are unveiled, and we feel the sorrow of not being in control or having the instant gratification to which we feel entitled. And then finally, we face that lonely alienation that has been driving us, and a certain painful emptiness that we too long sought to evade. It is good to be sobered and to face the truth. Here, even social distancing can occasion compunction. And the piercing of the heart unleashes a sudden torrent and healing’s faith first hint whispers truth. All that once appeared good no longer does so. And what is really good, we have not yet learned to see. So dark, alone, and vulnerable, and in need, we finally begin to pray. Lighted candle on the kitchen table as night descends. Such simple joys are filled with meaning As the beads of the rosary slip through the fingers, and the Bible passages echo out loud what memories of grace and of friendship fill the silence? All of this only directs the heart and to even deeper places towards depths that the memory cannot go or the intellect glimpse, but every word of the Word is drawn there. Meaningful silence is resound when the heart speaks to heart. And an astonishing secret is shared between creator and creature for in that ardent furneness of love, what bright warmth welcomes the Pilgrim soul and the Pilgrim God. Anthony Lilles, S.T.D. is an associate professor and the academic dean of Saint Patrick’s Seminary & University in Menlo Park, California. For over twenty years he served the Church in Northern Colorado where he joined and eventually served as dean of the founding faculty of Saint John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver. Through the years, clergy, seminarians, religious and lay faithful have benefited from his lectures and retreat conferences on the Carmelite Doctors of the Church and the writings of St. Elisabeth of the Trinity. The post That Great Silence in Storms Midst – Dr. Anthony Lilles – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-9 1st Thursday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 2:00

20 hours ago2:00

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The Cross of Christ Teaches Us. . .How to Trust and Give Thanks Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —What do I need from God to follow Jesus more closely? Seek —As the day progresses, when you find yourself impatient, unloving, judgmental, lustful, or anything that strikes you as against the gospel of Jesus, ask God for the gift that will help you to be more like Christ. Knock —Meditate on James 1:17. It is all that is good, everything that is perfect, which is given us from above; it comes down from the Father of all light; with him there is no such thing as alteration, no shadow of a change. Review the course of your life and try to discern the goodness of God. Spend some time giving thanks to God for how he has led you, even “through the valley of the shadow of death” to this moment. Transform Your Life —Try to make it a practice to “ask, seek, and knock” in your relationship with God. See that relationship as something that happens with every breath you take. Speak to God often! The author of The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work. The Power of the Cross is now available as a free e-book, check out more information by going here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post PoC-9 1st Thursday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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St. Joseph Novena – Day 4 1:54

21 hours ago1:54

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O glorious Saint Joseph,faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the benign heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly for the grace of a happy death and the special favor we now request… (State your request here.) O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers in our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Amen. DAY FOUR Saint Joseph, pride of Heaven, unfailing hope for our lives, and support of those on earth, graciously accept our prayer of praise. You were appointed spouse of the chaste Virgin by the Creator of the world. He willed that you be called “father” of the Word and serve as agent of our salvation. May the triune God who bestowed upon you heavenly honors, be praised forever. And may He grant us through your merits the joy of a blessed life and a favorable answer to our petition. (State your request here…) Amen. Saint Joseph, pray for us! The post St. Joseph Novena – Day 4 appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 9: “Ask, Seek, Knock” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 6:36

21 hours ago6:36

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 9: “Ask, Seek, Knock” Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible): Matthew 7:7-12 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, it will be opened. Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asks for a loaf of bread, or a snake when he asks for a fish? If you, then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him!” Reflection: In today’s Gospel, Jesus reassures us of the generosity and goodness of God. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” These words invite us to approach God with trust and persistence, knowing that He desires to pour out His blessings upon us. Yet, so often, we hesitate to ask. Perhaps we feel unworthy, or we fear that our prayers won’t be answered. We may struggle with doubt, wondering if God truly hears us. But Jesus reminds us that God is a loving Father who gives good gifts to His children. If even human parents know how to care for their children, how much more will God care for us? Still, we must recognize that prayer is not about controlling God or demanding what we want. Sometimes the answer is no. And when the answer is no—or when it seems like no answer is coming at all—it can be difficult to trust. Yet, even in the silence, God is at work. Abba Isaac the Theban teaches: “If you see that your prayers are not being answered, do not give up. God is drawing you closer through your perseverance” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Isaac the Theban 1 ) The waiting itself forms us, teaching us trust, humility, and surrender. Sometimes, God withholds what we ask for in order to give us something greater—something we do not yet recognize as His perfect gift. But in order to hear that deeper response, we must make space for silence, for listening. We must be willing not just to ask, but to receive whatever God desires to give. The Desert Fathers also teach us about the persistence of prayer. Abba Agathon said: “Prayer is warfare to the last breath.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Agathon 9 ) Prayer requires perseverance, especially when answers do not come immediately. It is an act of faith to keep asking, seeking, and knocking, even when the way forward seems unclear. True prayer is not transactional—it is relational. It is the opening of our hearts to God, allowing Him to shape our desires and bring us into deeper communion with Him. St. Thérèse of Lisieux , in her Story of a Soul , reflects on this trust: “I know that the Lord is more tender than any mother, and I fear nothing from Him.” Her words remind us that we approach a God who is not only powerful but also tender and compassionate. Lent is a time to deepen this trust, to bring our needs and desires to God with open hearts, and to believe that He will respond in His perfect time and way. As we reflect today, let us ask: Are we approaching God with trust and confidence in His love? How can we be more persistent in prayer, even when answers seem delayed? And how can we respond to others with the same generosity that we seek from God? Reflection Questions: What are the deepest desires of your heart that you need to bring to God in trust? How can you grow in persistence and patience in prayer, trusting in God’s timing? How can you imitate God’s generosity in responding to the needs of those around you? Closing Prayer: Lord, You invite us to ask, seek, and knock, promising that You will respond to our prayers. Help us to approach You with confidence and trust, knowing that You are a loving Father who desires only good for Your children. Teach us to persevere in prayer, even when the answers seem far away, and to trust in Your perfect will. May we also reflect Your generosity by responding to the needs of others with love and compassion. Amen. This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent. The post Day 9: “Ask, Seek, Knock” – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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1st Thursday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast 9:32

22 hours ago9:32

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1st Thursday of Lent- A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord. Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over” Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart… From the Holy Gospel of Matthew 7:7-12 Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him. Is there a man among you who would hand his son a stone when he asked for bread? Or would hand him a snake when he asked for a fish? If you, then, who are evil, know how to give your children what is good, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! ‘So always treat others as you would like them to treat you; that is the meaning of the Law and the Prophets.’ What word made this passage come alive for you? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you: Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him. Is there a man among you who would hand his son a stone when he asked for bread? Or would hand him a snake when he asked for a fish? If you, then, who are evil, know how to give your children what is good, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! ‘So always treat others as you would like them to treat you; that is the meaning of the Law and the Prophets.’ What did your heart feel as you listened? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word: Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him. Is there a man among you who would hand his son a stone when he asked for bread? Or would hand him a snake when he asked for a fish? If you, then, who are evil, know how to give your children what is good, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! ‘So always treat others as you would like them to treat you; that is the meaning of the Law and the Prophets.’ What touched your heart in this time of prayer? What did your heart feel as you prayed? What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord? Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post 1st Thursday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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CTD2 – The Desert of Ordinary Life – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcasts 28:17

2 days ago28:17

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The Desert of Ordinary Life – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating In this episode, Deacon James Keating and Kris McGregor discuss integrating faith into daily life, warning against separating religion from ordinary activities. They stress the need for vulnerability in worship to avoid routine and self-centeredness. Lent offers opportunities for spiritual growth, including reconciliation and stations of the cross. They lament the decline of shame and public judgment in society, emphasizing the community’s role in upholding moral truth. The Eucharist brings peace and transforms individuals, impacting society through witness. Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions Integration of Faith : How can we ensure that our faith is not compartmentalized but integrated into every aspect of our daily lives? Vulnerability in Worship : Reflect on times when worship has felt routine or self-centered. How can we cultivate vulnerability and openness to God during worship? Lenten Practices : In what ways can Lenten practices such as reconciliation and stations of the cross deepen our relationship with God? Decline of Shame : What are the implications of the decline of shame and public judgment in contemporary society for moral behavior and community life? Role of Community : How can communities uphold moral truth while respecting individual conscience and freedom? Transformative Power of the Eucharist : Reflect on the transformative power of the Eucharist in bringing peace and impacting society through witness. An excerpt from “Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion” : “The only location for God to interact with us is deep within the ordinariness of our days. We are called to cherish the ordinary day, not because of its routine or common features, but because within this daily forum God reaches us through others, through worship, charity, and our relational commitments. Our daily lives carry an invitation from God to become morally good and holy; it is the only medium through which this invitation can come. Cherish the days.” – Keating, James (2012-07-20). Liguori Publications. Kindle Edition. Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., is a professor of Spiritual Theology and serves as a spiritual director at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, MO. Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page The post CTD2 – The Desert of Ordinary Life – Crossing the Desert: Lent and Conversion with Deacon James Keating – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-8 1st Wednesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 1:30

2 days ago1:30

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The Cross of Christ Teaches Us. . . About Repentance Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —Where do I need to repent most in my life? Seek —Monitor your thoughts and hold them up against the standard of the gospel. Do your love and forgiveness have limi- tations or conditions? Ask the Lord to teach you true repentance of mind and heart. Knock —Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:22–24. And so, while the Jews demand miracles and the Greeks look for wisdom, here are we preaching a crucified Christ; to the Jews an obstacle that they cannot get over, to the pagans’ madness, but to those who have been called, whether they are Jews or Greeks, a Christ who is the power and the wisdom of God. How might you experience the power and wisdom of God in the cross by embracing the gospel more completely? Transform Your Life —Make a daily examination of conscience, paying special attention to your attitudes throughout the day, and asking the Holy Spirit to make you more like Christ. The author of The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work. The Power of the Cross is now available as a free e-book, check out more information by going here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post PoC-8 1st Wednesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 8: “Repentance and Mercy” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 6:59

2 days ago6:59

6:59

A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 8: “Repentance and Mercy” Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible): Luke 11:29-32 “When the crowds were increasing, Jesus began to speak: ‘This is a wicked generation; it is asking for a sign. The only sign it will be given is the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. On Judgement Day the men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation and condemn it, because when Jonah preached they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.’” Reflection: The story of Jonah and Nineveh is a powerful reminder of God’s mercy. Even though Nineveh was a city steeped in sin, the people responded to Jonah’s message with fasting, repentance, and prayer. Their contrite hearts moved God to withhold judgment, revealing His deep desire to forgive and restore. In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us to reflect on our own need for repentance. He tells the crowd that they will be given the “sign of Jonah”—a call to repentance through the presence of Christ Himself. But unlike the people of Nineveh, many in Jesus’ time failed to recognize the urgency of the call. They were stubborn, unwilling to look honestly at their own hearts, and resistant to change. This is not so different from us. Repentance is difficult because it requires humility—it forces us to acknowledge our sins, our weaknesses, and the ways we have turned from God. But in many cases, we do not even realize our need for repentance. We have lost a sense of virtue, replacing it with moral compromise. We live in a world where sin is normalized, and in our comfort, we grow blind to the ways we are being called to conversion. We are often like the crowd, demanding a sign from God while failing to recognize that He is already calling us to transformation. The Desert Fathers remind us that repentance is not a one-time act but a way of life. Abba Sisoes said: “Seek repentance with all your soul, for the time is drawing near.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Sisoes 43 ) Repentance is about more than feeling sorry for our sins; it is about reorienting our lives toward God. It is a continual turning of our hearts to Him in humility and trust. This daily practice is not meant to weigh us down with guilt but to free us, to bring us closer to God’s transforming love. St. John Vianney , the patron saint of priests, echoes this call: “The Lord is more eager to forgive us than we are to ask for His mercy.” We are reminded that God does not desire our perfection but our humility and trust in His love. Just as He forgave Nineveh, He longs to extend His mercy to us. But we must take the first step—acknowledging our sins and allowing His grace to transform our hearts. Repentance is not simply about turning away from sin, but turning toward Christ. When we honestly examine our hearts, we may find areas where we resist change out of fear or complacency. Yet God calls us to trust in His mercy, knowing that true healing begins when we surrender. Abba Poemen said: “The nature of water is soft, that of stone is hard; but if a bottle is hung above the stone, dropping water on it, it wears it away. So it is with the word of God: it is soft, and our hearts are hard, but if one hears the word of God often, it will break open the heart’s hardness in repentance.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Poemen 181 ) This wisdom reminds us that even the hardest of hearts can be softened when we allow God’s Word and His mercy to penetrate us. We must make space for His voice, listen attentively, and allow Him to work in us, breaking away the stubbornness that holds us back. Take a moment in prayer to invite God into the places of your heart that need healing. What sins or habits is He gently asking you to let go of? What areas of your life are in need of His mercy? Sit in silence and allow His love to wash over you. Let His mercy restore and renew you, just as He did for the people of Nineveh. Reflection Questions: What sins or habits is God inviting us to repent of this Lent? How can we trust more deeply in God’s mercy and forgiveness? In what ways can our repentance lead others to encounter God’s love? Closing Prayer: Lord, You are slow to anger and rich in mercy. Like the people of Nineveh, we come before You in humility, asking for Your forgiveness and grace. Help us to turn away from sin and to reorient our lives toward You. Teach us to trust in the depths of Your love, and may our repentance inspire others to seek Your mercy. Transform our hearts, O Lord, so that we may live as signs of Your compassion and grace in the world. Amen. This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent. The post Day 8: “Repentance and Mercy” – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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St. Joseph Novena – Day 3 1:54

2 days ago1:54

1:54

O glorious Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the benign heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly for the grace of a happy death and the special favor we now request… (State your request here.) O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers in our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Amen. DAY THREE Blessed St. Joseph, enkindle in our cold hearts a spark of your charity. May God be always the first and only object of our affections. Keep our souls always in sanctifying grace and, if we should be so unhappy as to lose it, give us the strength to recover it immediately by a sincere repentance. Help us to such a love of our God as will always keep us united to Him. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. (State your request here…) Amen. Saint Joseph, pray for us! The post St. Joseph Novena – Day 3 appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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1st Wednesday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast 9:51

2 days ago9:51

9:51

1st Wednesday of Lent- A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord. Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over” Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart… From the Holy Gospel of St. Luke 11:29-32 The crowds got even bigger, and Jesus addressed them: ‘This is a wicked generation; it is asking for a sign. The only sign it will be given is the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. On Judgement day the Queen of the South will rise up with the men of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and there is something greater than Solomon here. On Judgement day the men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation and condemn it, because when Jonah preached they repented; and there is something greater than Jonah here.’ What word made this passage come alive for you? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you: The crowds got even bigger, and Jesus addressed them: ‘This is a wicked generation; it is asking for a sign. The only sign it will be given is the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. On Judgement day the Queen of the South will rise up with the men of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and there is something greater than Solomon here. On Judgement day the men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation and condemn it, because when Jonah preached they repented; and there is something greater than Jonah here.’ What did your heart feel as you listened? What did you sense the Lord saying to you? Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word: The crowds got even bigger, and Jesus addressed them: ‘This is a wicked generation; it is asking for a sign. The only sign it will be given is the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. On Judgement day the Queen of the South will rise up with the men of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and there is something greater than Solomon here. On Judgement day the men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation and condemn it, because when Jonah preached they repented; and there is something greater than Jonah here.’ What touched your heart in this time of prayer? What did your heart feel as you prayed? What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord? Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post 1st Wednesday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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SJC16 – Longing for God’s Love – St. John of the Cross with Fr. Donald Haggerty – Discerning Hearts Podcast 29:00

2 days ago29:00

29:00

Longing for God’s Love – St. John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation with Fr. Donald Haggerty Fr. Donald Haggerty discusses St. John of the Cross’s deep insights into contemplative prayer, emphasizing the hidden yet profound ways God communicates with the soul. God’s presence is beyond human comprehension, yet intimately personal, particularly through the sacraments and prayer. Contemplation is described as a surrender to divine love, requiring faith and humility rather than an emotional or intellectual grasp of God. Drawing from St. John of the Cross, genuine supernatural experiences often transcend natural consolations, as God touches the soul in a way that surpasses human faculties. True prayer is an interior surrender that aligns with a life fully given to God. Contemplative graces can emerge unexpectedly, even in old age or suffering, as souls abandon themselves to God’s will. Saints like Mother Teresa and St. Damien of Molokai are examples of those who embodied this surrender, allowing God to act through them. Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions How does the hidden nature of God’s presence in the Eucharist and within the soul challenge your understanding of prayer? In what ways do you seek consolation in prayer, and how might deeper surrender to God transform your spiritual life? How does recognizing the infinite magnitude of God shape your reverence in the sacraments and in personal prayer? What role does faith play in trusting God’s presence, even when you do not feel His closeness? How can you cultivate a deeper awareness of belonging entirely to God in your daily life? In what ways can suffering or trials become an opportunity for deeper union with God? How do the examples of saints like Mother Teresa and St. Damien of Molokai inspire you to live a more self-giving life? What practices or gestures can help you grow in humility before God in prayer and worship? How does understanding God’s presence within you, as taught by St. John of the Cross, change your approach to contemplation? What steps can you take to foster a greater longing for God throughout your life, rather than waiting until the final moments? An excerpt from St. John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation “The ease with which contemplation can take place when a soul is accustomed to approach God with a deeper surrender of itself is evident in this passage. The great obstacle to the soul at this time, on the other hand, as mentioned already, lies in an excessively conscientious approach to prayer that resists adaptation. And in a real sense, this involves a lack of surrender to God. The conscientiousness to “do prayer” as taught in one’s training is not necessarily a virtue; it actually can be a fault that makes a soul reluctant to alter its ways. The person may have become accustomed for many months, sometimes for years, to fill a silent time of prayer with an imaginative gaze on the Gospel or in searching for spiritual insights. The familiarity of the method has trained the person to seek satisfaction in the acquisition of new thoughts or in the enjoyment of some felt sense of loving God. The virtuous resolutions that may conclude such prayer give the time of prayer a sense of a purposefulness. For many souls, it becomes very hard to accept that a prayer less active, less searching, a prayer more inconclusive, more open-ended, can be an advancement in prayer. The suggestion to remain quiet seems to invite the laziness of non-activity into prayer and to yield fruitless results. As we have mentioned, these souls, if they are receiving contemplative graces, are the fervent and dedicated people of the spiritual life. They are people who do give themselves generously in charity and to the will of God. They work hard and spend themselves. Otherwise, the grace of contemplation would not be occurring. But it is precisely this conscientiousness that can work against them at this time. They are not acclimated to a more receptive acceptance of subtle graces from God. If the person can trust inwardly and allow the soul to follow its deeper instinct of love, as described in the fifth sign, then the door opens to the graced inner desire to seek nothing but to love God in prayer. Unfortunately, an active mentality may tend for a time to resist the “apparent” abandonment of concrete fruits from its prayer. Such a soul may prefer, as Saint John of the Cross comments, to do over and over again what has been done and completed already. The aversion can be strong to doing what is thought to be doing nothing. Yet how mistaken this may be. Saint John of the Cross employs a striking image: removing the rind from a piece of fruit, so that it is ready to eat, and then trying to peel it once again…” Haggerty, Donald. Saint John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation (pp. 196-197). Ignatius Press. Kindle Edition. For more episodes in this series visit Fr. Haggerty’s Discerning Hearts page here You find the book on which this series is based here. The post SJC16 – Longing for God’s Love – St. John of the Cross with Fr. Donald Haggerty – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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Day 7: The Call of the Disciples – “Leaving Everything to Follow Him” – Discerning Hearts Podcast 8:45

2 days ago8:45

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 7: The Call of the Disciples – “Leaving Everything to Follow Him” Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible): Luke 5:1-11 “Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on Him to hear the word of God, He saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then He sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if You say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!’ For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.’ When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed Him.” Reflection: The call of Simon Peter, James, and John is a moment of profound transformation. These ordinary fishermen encounter the extraordinary power of Jesus, and in an instant, their lives are forever changed. In the midst of their daily work—tired and likely discouraged after a fruitless night of fishing—they meet the Lord, who enters their lives with an invitation that will demand everything. Simon Peter’s initial response is one of hesitation: “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if You say so, I will let down the nets.” His words reflect the struggle many of us feel when faced with God’s call. We see our own limitations, our failures, and our doubts, but Peter takes a step of faith. That simple act of obedience—trusting Jesus’ word—leads to an abundance beyond anything Peter could have imagined. When the nets are miraculously filled, Peter falls to his knees, overwhelmed by the presence of holiness: “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” In this moment, Peter is confronted with his own unworthiness, yet Jesus does not turn away. Instead, He calls Peter deeper: “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” This is the heart of discipleship—not that we are worthy, but that Christ’s grace transforms us and makes us capable of answering His call. St. John Paul II spoke often of the courage required to follow Christ’s call: “Duc in altum! Put out into the deep! Do not be afraid to take risks for Christ. If He calls you, He will sustain you. Step forward with faith, and He will provide.” ( Novo Millennio Ineunte , 2001) This call to discipleship is not just for the apostles—it is for each of us. Jesus meets us in the ordinary moments of our lives, asking us to trust Him and to leave behind anything that holds us back. What are the “nets” in your life that you need to leave behind? Perhaps it is fear, pride, or attachment to comfort. Jesus invites us to lay these down and to follow Him wholeheartedly. The call of the disciples also reminds us that we are not called alone. Simon Peter, James, and John leave their boats together, stepping into a community of faith. Who are the people God has placed in your life to walk this journey with you? How can you support one another as you seek to follow Christ? The Desert Fathers often reflected on the call to leave everything for Christ. Abba Agathon once said: “If someone desires God, he must be ready to let go of everything else. A heart divided cannot fully belong to Him.” ( Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Agathon 1 ) His words remind us that following Jesus requires a full surrender, not holding onto distractions or fears that prevent us from giving ourselves completely to Him. Take a moment to reflect on Jesus’ words: “Do not be afraid.” Where is He calling you to trust Him more deeply? What risks is He inviting you to take for the sake of His kingdom? Ask for the courage to respond with the same faith and boldness as the disciples. Reflection Questions: What “nets” are you holding onto that might be preventing you from fully following Jesus? How can you trust Jesus more deeply in the ordinary moments of your life? Who are the people in your life that God has called to journey with you in faith, and how can you support one another? Closing Prayer: Lord Jesus, You called the disciples to leave everything and follow You. Help us to hear Your call in our own lives. Give us the courage to trust You, even when the path is uncertain. Teach us to let go of anything that holds us back and to follow You with our whole hearts. May we never be afraid to step out in faith, knowing that You are always with us. Amen. This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent. The post Day 7: The Call of the Disciples – “Leaving Everything to Follow Him” – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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PoC-7 1st Tuesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation 1:43

3 days ago1:43

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The Cross of Christ Teaches Us. . . How to Pray Steps to Take as You Follow Christ Ask —How can my prayer better reflect what is going on in my life at the present moment? Seek —Try praying for an extended period of time in the orans position. Ask Our Lord to teach you this lesson from the cross, so that your prayer might always be heartfelt. Knock —Meditate on Hebrews 5:7 During his life on earth, he offered up prayer and entreaty, aloud and in silent tears, to the one who had the power to save him out of death, and he submitted so humbly that his prayer was heard. How might your prayer become more like the prayer of Christ? Transform Your Life —Foster a sense of God’s presence before you begin any prayer. Speak to God from your heart, then listen. God is the most important being with whom you will ever speak. The author of The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ in Your Life , Michael Dubriuel, passed away in 2009. His wife, author Amy Welborn, has made his book available as a free e-book ! We HIGHLY encourage you to download this exceptional work. The Power of the Cross is now available as a free e-book, check out more information by going here Check out more at the Discerning Hearts’ Michael Dubruiel page Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission. The post PoC-7 1st Tuesday of Lent: The Power of the Cross Lenten Meditation appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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St. Joseph Novena – Day 2 1:59

3 days ago1:59

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O glorious Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the benign heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly for the grace of a happy death and the special favor we now request… (State your request here.) O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers in our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Amen. DAY TWO O blessed Saint Joseph, tenderhearted father, faithful guardian of Jesus, chaste spouse of the Mother of God, we pray and beseech you to offer to God the Father, His divine son, bathed in blood on the Cross for sinners, and through the thrice holy name of Jesus obtain for us of the eternal Father the favor for which we implore your intercession… (State your request here…) Amid the splendors of eternity, forget not the sorrows of those who pray, those who weep; stay the almighty arm which smites us, that by your prayers and those of your most holy spouse, the Heart of Jesus may be moved to pity and to pardon. Amen Saint Joseph, pray for us! The post St. Joseph Novena – Day 2 appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts .…

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1st Tuesday of Lent – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast 10:02

3 days ago10:02