Show Notes
In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study on "The Way of Trust and Love" and focus on Chapter 1: A Completely New Way. We reflect on the "little way" of St. Thérèse, the invitation to become spiritual children before the Father, and how weakness becomes the very place where Christ comes to meet us. We also talk about the difference between being childish and childlike, why true maturity in faith begins with admitting our own poverty, and how small acts of courage open the door to deep healing. This week, we invite you to name the desires stirring in your heart and let the Holy Spirit awaken a new song within you.
Heather's One Thing - Franciscan's Campus-wide "Behold" Retreat Sister Miriam's One Thing - Healing Wounds by Bishop Erik Varden Michelle's One Thing - The O' Grady's Beach House Michelle's Other One Thing - Emily Lex Watercolor Workbooks
Journal Questions: How often do I accept the letter of God's adoption of me, and not the spirit of God's adoption? Where in my life do I need Mother Mary to smile upon me? How have I turned to self-reliance this Lent? Where is God inviting me to become more adult and free? What is the new song the Lord wants to put in my heart?
Discussion Questions: When do you notice orphanhood in your heart? What are you learning from St. Therese this Lent? When have you experienced the healing delight of a mother? Is it difficult for you to name your desires? What is one desire God has placed on your heart this Lent? What is the "yes" God is asking you to make today?
Quotes to Ponder: "You know, Mother, that I have always desired to be a saint, but alas, I have always realized, when I compared myself to the saints, that there is between them and me the same difference as exists between a mountain whose summit is lost in the skies, and the obscure grain of sand trodden underfoot by passers-by. Instead of getting discouraged, I said to myself: "God could not" "inspire us with desires that were unrealizable, so despite my littleness I can aspire to holiness. It is impossible for me to grow up, I must put up with myself as I am, with all my imperfections; but I want to find how to get to Heaven by a little way that is quite straight, quite short: a completely new little way." (St. Thérèse of Lisieux)
"Each of us has an absolute need for an inner transformation that makes us "as little as a child." What that means and how to put it into practice are exactly what Thérèse teaches in a simple, luminous way. That is why she was proclaimed a Doctor—that is, a teacher—of the Church." (Father Jacques Philippe, The Way of Trust and Love, Page 6)
"The heart of Christian life is to receive and welcome God's tenderness and goodness, the revelation of his merciful love, and to let oneself be transformed interiorly by that love." (Father Jacques Philippe, The Way of Trust and Love, Page 7)
Scripture for Lectio: "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Sponsor - Healed and Restored: Healed and Restored is a non-profit organization located in the Charlotte, NC area that was created in 2020 to fill a void and respond to a need that has been long overlooked in our society. A program that is 100% dedicated to helping women heal in the aftermath of abuse, assault, and other traumatic experiences. According to the United Nations, one in three girls and women around the world has been subjected to sexual and/or physical abuse at least once in their lives. Studies show that women who have been through abuse (of all types) have higher levels of fear, are more isolated, and face greater mental health problems. In the aftermath of any of these traumatic events, women will sometimes resort to hurting themselves through cutting, eating disorders, and addictions. Without proper care and healing, these dark cycles
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To read Sr. Miriam's Letter, visit the Friends of the Bridegroom's website.