Day 4: “Follow Me” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 4: “Follow Me“

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Luke 5:27-32
“When Jesus went out, He noticed a tax collector called Levi sitting by the customs house, and He said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And leaving everything, he got up and followed Him. In his house, Levi held a great reception for Jesus, and with them at table was a large gathering of tax collectors and others. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to His disciples and said, ‘Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?’ Jesus answered them, ‘It is not those who are well who need the doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the virtuous, but sinners to repentance.’”

Reflection:

Today, Jesus speaks those simple yet life-changing words to Levi: “Follow me.” And with no hesitation, Levi leaves everything behind—his job, his income, his old life—and follows Jesus.

This moment is at the heart of Lent. Every day, Jesus speaks these same words to us: “Follow me.” And like Levi, we are invited to let go of what holds us back—our attachments, fears, and sins—and trust in the new life Jesus offers.

But surrendering is not easy. To leave behind the familiar requires trust, courage, and faith. It is human to hesitate, to wonder what might be lost. Yet, Jesus does not ask for perfection; He asks for willingness. He meets us where we are, in the ordinary moments of life, and calls us into something greater than ourselves.

Self-examination can be difficult and sometimes painful. Often, we avoid looking at the darker corners of our lives out of shame, disappointment with ourselves, or even fear. Yet, the gentle Jesus does not leave us alone. It is He who calls us, He who will guide us. Allowing time and space to listen in silence to what He lovingly reveals to us is the first step in following Him. His voice does not shame or accuse; rather, it reveals and invites. He does not condemn but encourages us to let go, to trust, and to be healed in love.

One practical daily practice to help us grow in awareness of God’s presence and discern His call more deeply is the Examen Prayer, as offered by St. Ignatius of Loyola. This prayer helps us to reflect on our day with gratitude, recognize where God was present, and identify where He is leading us to deeper conversion. The Examen is a powerful tool for cultivating a listening heart, learning from our experiences, and growing in trust. A guide for the Examen can be found on DiscerningHearts.com or in the free Discerning Hearts app.

The prophet Isaiah assures us that God will guide us through the challenges of this surrender. When we let go of the burdens we carry, Isaiah promises: “Your light will rise in the darkness, and your shadows become like noon.” (Isaiah 58:10) God strengthens us when we entrust ourselves to Him fully.

The Desert Fathers deeply understood the struggle of surrendering to God. Abba Theodore of Pherme taught:

“Let us strive to enter through the narrow gate. Just as trees cannot bear fruit if they have not stood against the wind, so too does the one who struggles bear the fruit of the Spirit.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Theodore of Pherme 5)

Saying yes to Jesus is the narrow way. It involves struggle and sacrifice, but it also leads to freedom, healing, and joy. Jesus does not call us because we are perfect or ready—He calls us because He longs to transform us.

St. Francis de Sales, a master of the spiritual life, encourages us in this journey of trust. He writes:

“Do not fear what might happen tomorrow. The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.” (Letters to a Devout Life)

Take a moment to imagine yourself in Levi’s place, sitting at your work, at your daily tasks, when suddenly Jesus walks by and speaks directly to you: “Follow me.” What do you feel? Do you hesitate? Do you rise immediately? Ask for the grace to trust His voice, to leave behind what no longer leads you to Him, and to embrace the joy of walking in His footsteps.

Reflection Questions:

What attachments or habits make it difficult for us to hear and respond to Jesus’ call to“Follow me”?
How can we trust that surrendering to Christ will bring greater freedom and joy?
What practical steps can we take today to respond to Jesus’ invitation to follow Him?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, You call us each day with those simple yet powerful words: “Follow me.” Give us the courage to leave behind whatever holds us back—our attachments, fears, and distractions—and to trust fully in You. Strengthen us as we walk the narrow path, and fill our hearts with the light of Your presence. May we, like Levi, respond with joy and trust, knowing that You walk beside us every step of the way. 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.

Day 3: “The Fast That God Desires” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 3: “The Fast That God Desires” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Isaiah 58:6-9
“Is not this the sort of fast that pleases me—it is the Lord who speaks—to break unjust fetters and undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke, to share your bread with the hungry, and shelter the homeless poor, to clothe the man you see to be naked and not turn from your own kin? Then will your light shine like the dawn, and your wound be quickly healed over. Saving justice will go before you, and the Lord’s glory behind you. Then you will cry, and the Lord will answer; you will call, and he will say, ‘I am here.’”

Reflection:

Today, through the prophet Isaiah, God speaks to us about the true meaning of fasting. Too often, we focus on what we are giving up—a favorite food, an indulgence, or a habit. But Isaiah reveals that true fasting is about freedom—freedom from the chains that bind us, and freedom to love and serve others more fully.

St. John Cassian, in his teachings on the spiritual life, writes:
“Fasting restrains gluttony, the root of all vices, and cuts off the fuel that feeds the activity of the evil one.”(Conferences, Book 5, Chapter 6)

For Cassian, fasting is not just about discipline for the body but a weapon for the soul. It weakens the power of sin and creates space for God’s grace to work in us. True fasting is about more than denial; it is about transformation. It purifies our hearts, helping us to focus on God and respond to the needs of others.

The Desert Fathers echo this wisdom. Abba John said:
“If a man shuts his mouth but harbors resentment in his heart, he is fasting only outwardly.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, John 5)

Fasting is not just about abstaining from food—it is about letting go of pride, selfishness, and judgment so that God’s light can shine through us. Isaiah promises that when we fast in this way, “Then will your light shine like the dawn, and your wound be quickly healed over.”Fasting brings freedom and healing, not just for ourselves but for those around us.

The great St. Augustine, in his Sermon on the Lord’s Prayer, reminds us that fasting must always be paired with charity:
“Do you wish your prayer to fly toward God? Give it two wings: fasting and almsgiving.” (Sermon 206)

When we fast, it should lead us to greater generosity—sharing our bread with the hungry, clothing the naked, and sheltering the homeless. It should open our eyes to the needs of others and our hearts to love.

Reflection Questions:

Take a moment to sit with these questions and let them guide your prayer today:

What attachments or habits weigh us down and prevent us from living freely in God’s love?
How is God calling us to a deeper, interior fast that transforms our hearts?
How can our fasting bring healing and light to others in our lives?

Closing Prayer:

Let us now bring our time of reflection to God in prayer, asking for His grace to help us live out the fast that He desires.

Lord, You have shown us the fast that pleases You: to break chains, to love generously, and to walk humbly with You. Help us to fast not only with our bodies but with our hearts. Free us from the attachments that weigh us down, and open our eyes to the needs of others. May our fasting this Lent be a source of healing, renewal, and light—for ourselves and for the world.
Amen.

Day 2: The Call to Conversion – “Turning Toward the Light” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 2: The Call to Conversion – “Turning Toward the Light”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):
Matthew 4:17
“From that time Jesus began to proclaim, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.'”

Reflection:

Today’s scripture reminds us of Jesus’ central message as He begins His public ministry: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Repentance is not just about feeling sorry for our sins. It is about turning—turning away from darkness and sin and toward the light of God’s grace. It is a reorientation of our hearts, minds, and lives toward God.

This turning can feel daunting. We may be hesitant to confront our weaknesses, our failures, and the ways we have strayed from God. Yet, Jesus’ call to repentance is not harsh or condemning. It is an invitation to healing and renewal. The kingdom of heaven is near because Jesus Himself has drawn near. He does not call us to change on our own but to open our hearts to His transforming love.

The Desert Fathers often spoke of repentance as a daily turning of the heart. Abba Poemen said: “Do not give your heart to that which does not satisfy the heart.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Poemen 15) His words challenge us to examine our lives honestly. What are the things we cling to that cannot satisfy the deeper longing of our hearts? What are the distractions or attachments that keep us from fully turning to God?

St. John Chrysostom, reflecting on repentance, said: “Be ashamed when you sin, not when you repent. Repentance is medicine, sin is the wound.” This image of repentance as medicine invites us to see it not as a burden but as a gift. It is the means by which God heals the wounds of our sin and restores us to wholeness.

St. Teresa of Ávila reminds us that this turning toward God must also come from a place of humility: “Do not let us deceive ourselves into thinking that because we confess our sins, we have repented. True repentance is shown in the amendment of life, in surrendering our will to God’s will.” Lent is an opportunity to not only ask for forgiveness but to commit to a renewed way of living in alignment with God’s grace.

As we reflect on Jesus’ call to repentance, let us take a moment to examine our own lives.

Repentance is not a one-time event. It is a daily practice, a continual turning of the heart toward God. Each day of Lent is an opportunity to take another step on this journey of conversion, trusting that God’s grace will meet us every step of the way.

Reflection Questions:

What are the areas in your life where God is calling you to repentance and renewal?
How can you let go of distractions or attachments that do not satisfy your heart?
What practical steps can you take today to turn more fully toward God?

Closing Prayer:

Let us conclude with a prayer of repentance and trust in God’s mercy:

Lord Jesus, You call us to repent and turn toward the light of Your kingdom. Help us to recognize the ways we have strayed from You and to trust in Your mercy. Heal the wounds of our sin and renew our hearts by Your grace. May this day be a step closer to You, as we open ourselves to Your transforming love. Strengthen us to let go of what does not satisfy and to turn wholeheartedly to You.
Amen.

Day 1: Ash Wednesday – “Return to Me with Your Whole Heart” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 1: Ash Wednesday – “Return to Me with Your Whole Heart”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):
Joel 2:12-13
“But now—it is the Lord who speaks—come back to me with all your heart, fasting, weeping, mourning. Let your hearts be broken, not your garments torn, turn to the Lord your God again, for he is all tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in graciousness, and ready to relent.”

Reflection:

As we begin this Lenten journey, we hear the words of the prophet Joel: “Come back to me with all your heart.” It’s a call to step away from the noise and distractions of life and return to God with our whole being. Lent invites us to reflect, to fast, and to pray so that our hearts may be renewed by grace.

This return is not easy. Our lives are busy. Responsibilities press upon us. Distractions draw our attention away from the still, small voice of God. The world urges us to strive and achieve, but God simply asks: “Come back to me.” He does not demand perfection but longs for our hearts—even in their brokenness.

The prophet Joel’s words echo this tenderness: “Let your hearts be broken, not your garments torn.” External acts of repentance are not enough; God desires an interior transformation, one that reaches the depths of who we are. To return to God means to acknowledge our need for Him, to trust in His mercy, and to allow Him to heal what is wounded within us.

The Desert Fathers understood this deep need for silence and prayer. Abba Arsenius, who left a life of luxury to seek God in solitude, prayed:

“Lord, teach me to be silent, that I may discern Your will. In silence, the soul finds rest, and the heart is purified. Words often scatter, but silence gathers the heart in prayer, lifting it to You.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Arsenius 5)

This silence is not a void; it is a space where God’s voice can echo in our hearts. It is a silence that allows us to recognize His presence in the midst of our struggles.

Similarly, St. Augustine speaks to the restlessness we feel when we stray from God:

“You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” (Confessions, Book 1, Chapter 1)

Augustine reminds us that our longing for peace, fulfillment, and meaning is ultimately a longing for God. Lent is an opportunity to bring this restlessness to Him, to find our true rest in His love and grace.

As you receive the ashes today, let them remind you of this invitation: to turn back to God with all your heart. Let them speak of His tenderness and compassion. And let them be a sign of hope, for even in our brokenness, God is ready to renew and restore us.

Take this moment to consider the journey ahead. Lent is not about achieving perfection; it is about opening your heart, one step at a time, to the transforming power of God’s grace. Trust in His invitation to come back to Him, and let this journey be one of deep renewal.

Reflection Questions:

Take a moment to reflect on these questions and allow them to guide your prayer today:

What distractions keep us from returning to God with our whole hearts?
How can silence and prayer help us hear God’s invitation more clearly?
What small steps can we take today to draw closer to God during this Lenten season?

Closing Prayer:

Let us now bring our time of reflection to God in prayer, asking for the grace to return to Him fully:

Lord, You call us to come back to You with all our hearts. Yet we confess that life often feels too busy and overwhelming. Teach us to seek silence and prayer so that we may hear Your voice. Break our hearts in love and transform them by Your grace. May this Lent be a journey of renewal and deeper communion with You. Amen

IP#507 Sr. Josephine Garrett – Wilderness Within on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Wilderness Within by Sr. Josephine Garrett on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Sister Josephine Garrett and Kris McGregor discuss Wilderness Within, a Lenten journal designed to guide individuals in deepening their spiritual journey. Sister Josephine explains that the book is not for the faint of heart but for those willing to reflect on their implicit beliefs about God, faith, and themselves. The book explores the theme of the “wilderness within,” likening it to the Desert Fathers’ realization that the greatest spiritual battle is fought in the human heart and the importance of rendering one’s heart open to Christ, engaging in interior reflection, and embracing the challenges of Lent not as failures but as necessary struggles on the path to spiritual growth.

The need for authentic hope amid personal and societal struggles is important during the Jubilee of Hope. Fasting, penance, and detachment each share a role in gaining clarity and deepening union with God rather than simply self-denial. She encourages listeners to avoid rushing through Lent, instead embracing the rhythm of the liturgical season as a model for ongoing spiritual discipline.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

How does the concept of the “wilderness within” resonate with your own spiritual struggles and growth?
In what ways do you see God’s love sustaining you, even in times of doubt or hardship?
What are the “stories” you tell yourself about your relationship with God, and how do they shape your faith?
How can you practice rendering your heart more fully open to God during Lent?
What attachments or distractions in your life may be keeping you from fully trusting in God’s plan?
How do you respond to suffering and the cross in your own life—do you resist it or see it as a path to deeper union with Christ?
How can fasting, prayer, and almsgiving help you detach from worldly concerns and focus more on God?
In what ways does the Jubilee of Hope challenge you to rediscover hope in your personal faith journey?
How does reflecting on Christ’s suffering during Holy Week draw you closer to His heart?
What steps can you take after Lent to ensure that your spiritual growth continues beyond the season?

From the book’s description:

This Lent, allow Sr. Josephine Garrett to be your guide as you explore the interior wilderness of your heart and invite Jesus in to heal you with his love.

Have you ever wondered why Jesus went into the wilderness? Some believe it was to reveal his divinity or to restore humanity’s relationship with God. In Wilderness Within, Sr. Josephine Garrett, a mental health counselor and popular speaker, reflects on the belief that Jesus went into the wilderness to rescue us—to rescue us! The Lord does not want us to view the wilderness as something that causes worry, anxiety, or fear. “What if, instead,” Sr. Josephine writes, “we looked at how God has been a faithful provider in the wilderness and trusted that He will do the same for us in the wilderness journey ahead? What if we joyfully take His hand and journey into the wilderness, because when Christ enters there, ‘this opposite place of the garden becomes the place of reconciliation and healing’” (Pope Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth)?

In Wilderness Within, Sr. Josephine will guide you through the forty days of Lent to attend to the wilderness of your heart as a place to be explored, restored, and sent on mission by Jesus’s tender love.

Week of Ash Wednesday: Enter Lent by recognizing your ability to always begin anew in Christ.

Week One: Open your heart to God’s love, allowing yourself to reverence your heart as a gift from your Creator.

Week Two: Reflect on the truth that we are created for relationships, and examine the relationships in your life.

Week Three: Take an honest look at your limitations, wounds, and sin guided by a spirit of humility and repentance.

Week Four: Begin to see how God designed your heart to be rescued by him and grow in your capacity to be healed by him.

Week Five: Leave the wilderness of your heart so that you can go on mission—with a heart restored by Christ’s love—to love your neighbor and be a good steward of the gifts and charisms given to you.

Holy Week: Follow in Jesus’s footsteps to the Cross and discover how you can love him well through each stage of the Passion and Resurrection.

Each day’s content includes brief meditations, specially crafted illustrations, thought-provoking reflection questions, heartfelt prayers curated to uplift your spirit, and ample journaling space for personal revelations and insights. Whether you’re journeying alone or with a group, Wilderness Within is your guide to a beautiful and renewing Lent.

About the Author

Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN, is a sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, a licensed counselor, host of the Hope Stories podcast, and a Catholic speaker and author.

Garrett earned a bachelor’s degree in political philosophy from the University of Dallas. Prior to entering religious life, she worked as vice president in the home loans division of Bank of America. In 2019, she earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and became a nationally certified counselor licensed in Texas.

She worked as a school counselor in Tyler, Texas, and is presently serving as a counselor in private practice. Garret is a voice for mental health on various platforms such as Formed and Hallow.

She resides in Tyler, Texas.

IP#494 Fr. Thomas Morrow – Straight to Heaven on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Fr. Thomas Morrow on “Straight to Heaven: A Practical Guide for Growing in Holiness”

Kris McGregor talks with Fr. Thomas Morrow about his book Straight to Heaven: A Practical Guide for Growing in Holiness. Fr. Morrow explains the significance of understanding heaven, hell, and purgatory as motivators for spiritual growth. Heaven is a deep union with God, similar to a divine marriage. While God’s mercy is abundant, rejecting Him leads to hell, which Christ frequently spoke about in Scripture; and purgatory as a place of purification for those who die in God’s grace but still need to atone for sins.

Fr. Morrow presents prayer as the foundation of holiness and encourages believers to develop a daily habit of conversation with God. He recommends the Rosary for its meditative power and speaks about the importance of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, as essential sources of grace.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

The Reality of Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory: How does understanding the Church’s teaching on heaven, hell, and purgatory shape the way you live your daily life and make moral choices?
The Joy of Union with God: In what ways can you deepen your desire for heaven by growing in your relationship with God through prayer and the sacraments?
The Role of Suffering in Holiness: How can you embrace suffering as a means of uniting yourself with Christ and growing in holiness rather than avoiding or resenting it?
The Power of Daily Prayer: What steps can you take to develop a consistent and meaningful prayer life that brings you closer to God?
The Call to Love God and Neighbor: How can you practice the two greatest commandments more intentionally, especially in difficult relationships or challenging situations?
The Importance of the Sacraments: What role do the Eucharist and Reconciliation play in your spiritual life, and how can you make them a greater priority?
The Challenge of Living a Virtuous Life: Which virtues do you struggle with the most, and how can you work on strengthening them through prayer and action?
The Commitment to Spiritual Growth: What practical changes can you make in your daily routine to foster a deeper relationship with God and grow in holiness?

You can find the book here.

From the book description:

“If you’re hoping to get to Heaven, you’ll need a plan to reach your goal. This handy manual not only presents all the elements of a life well lived; it also helps you incorporate those elements into everyday practice. Straight to Heaven is the one guide you need to achieve holiness now and Heaven later – all while eluding the traps and pains of Hell.

Fr. Morrow explains that happiness is attainable now for those who live the gospel because they are bringing a bit of Heaven to earth. Conversely, those who fail to live the gospel are doomed to live a hellish life in this world and in the next.

That’s why Fr. Morrow wrote this book – to help you put in place a practical plan to enable you to love God with your whole heart, mind, and soul. Fr. Morrow shows you how to discern and follow God’s will and improve your ability to extend mercy to others.

Through engaging stories of individuals who lived heroically in difficult circumstances, you will discover ways to overcome vice and grow in the fruits of the Holy Spirit so you can become the saint God calls you to be. Most importantly, you will learn to keep your eyes fixed on the heavenly Wedding Feast and your eternal reward. You will also learn:

The difference between meditation and contemplation

How to grow in authentic sorrow for sin

The three methods of prayer – and when to use each

The most effective aid to staying on the path to holiness

How to overcome difficulties in prayer

Three ways to display your love to God”

About the Author: Fr. Thomas G. Morrow graduated from St. Charles Seminary in Philadelphia and was ordained in 1982 for the Archdiocese of Washington (DC). He has an STL in Moral Theology from the Dominican House of Studies and received his Doctorate in Sacred Theology (STD) from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in 1999. He was host for three years (1989-1992) of Catholic Faith Alive!, a radio program on WNTR in Washington, in which he explained the Catholic faith. Fr. Morrow has appeared as a guest on Mother Angelica Live and The Abundant Life programs on Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). He has written booklets on the rosary, the Stations of the Cross, and on heaven, hell and purgatory.

IP#323 John Galten – The Spiritual Direction of St. Claude De La Colombiere on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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John Galten – The Spiritual Direction of St. Claude De La Colombiere on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

John Galten and Kris McGregor discuss The Spiritual Direction of St. Claude de la Colombière and St. Claude’s crucial role in the Sacred Heart devotion, through his spiritual guidance of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. Galten recounts his personal journey to discovering St. Claude and highlights how the saint’s balanced, kind, and firm approach helped St. Margaret Mary persevere amidst resistance. St. Claude’s promotion of the Sacred Heart devotion, particularly through his Jesuit connections, significantly contributed to its global spread. His teachings on trust in God’s providence and the interior life resonate today, offering timeless guidance for deepening one’s spiritual journey.

St. Claude’s prudence, humility, and love for the Eucharist, portrays him as an essential guide for those seeking holiness in a distracted world. Galten draws parallels between the Sacred Heart and Divine Mercy devotions, underscoring their shared message of trust in Christ’s love; in addition to the importance of prayer, the sacraments, and spiritual masters like St. Claude in fostering an interior life, especially in light of St. John Paul II’s call for a new evangelization.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Importance of Spiritual Direction: Reflect on how the guidance of a spiritual director, like St. Claude de la Colombière, can provide clarity and strength in times of spiritual struggle.
Trust in God’s Providence: Consider ways in which you can deepen your trust in God’s plan, especially when facing challenges or uncertainty.
Role of Devotion in Spiritual Growth: Examine the role that devotions, such as the Sacred Heart, play in nurturing your relationship with Christ and sustaining your interior life.
Balance in Spiritual Practice: Reflect on how you can maintain a balanced spiritual life that embraces both zeal and prudence, avoiding extremes in your faith journey.
Significance of the Eucharist: Ponder the centrality of the Eucharist in your daily life and how participation in the Mass strengthens your connection to Christ.
Call to Universal Holiness: Consider how you can respond to the Church’s call to holiness by fostering an interior life rooted in prayer, sacraments, and love for God.
Joy in Evangelization: Reflect on the importance of joy in living and sharing your faith, and identify ways to cultivate this joy through a deeper relationship with Christ and Our Lady.

To obtain a copy of the book visit here

About the Book

“St. Claude, canonized by Pope John Paul II, ranks among the masters of the spiritual life as a director of souls. He gave direction to countless souls, including to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the great visionary of the Sacred Heart revelations. Jesus told St. Margaret Mary, “Father Claude is my perfect friend and servant. His gift is to lead souls to God.”

St. Claude preached missions and retreats on the Sacred Heart. He was also a clever psychologist who easily read the hearts of other. His sure judgment, aided by grace, enabled him to understand the difficulties of each soul and give the advice most needed for each person. Readers of this spiritual gem will find his insights full of wisdom and inspiration.

His writings cover such important areas of the spiritual life as: Confession, Mass and Holy Communion, Confidence in God, Perfection & Holiness, Peace of Soul, Charity, Education of Children, Spiritual Joy, Prayer, Zeal, and much more.”

IP#374 – Mary Dudro – Salt and Light: The Spiritual Journey of Élisabeth and Félix Leseur on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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Mary Dudro – Salt and Light: The Spiritual Journey of Élisabeth and Félix Leseur on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Mary Dudro-Gordon and Kris McGregor discuss Salt and Light: The Spiritual Journey of Elisabeth and Félix Leseur by Bernadette Chovelon. Presenting the remarkable story of Elisabeth, a devout Catholic, and Félix, a staunch atheist; their marriage was grounded in deep love and mutual respect despite their spiritual differences. Their relationship illustrates the transformative power of sacramental marriage as Elisabeth devoted herself to silent prayer, sacrifice, and trust in God’s plan for Félix’s conversion. Despite her chronic illness and the sorrow of infertility, Elisabeth maintained her faith, believing in God’s mercy and grace while selflessly serving her husband and others around her.

Their story takes a poignant turn after Elisabeth’s death when Félix reads her spiritual writings and is deeply moved by the hidden sacrifices she made for his soul. Overwhelmed by her example of love and faith, Félix experiences a profound conversion and later becomes a Dominican priest, dedicating the remainder of his life to serving God. Elisabeth and Felix’s story provides a compelling testament to the quiet power of prayer, the enduring nature of true marital love, and the mystery of divine mercy. Elisabeth Leseur’s example serves as an inspiration for those praying for the conversion of loved ones, reminding readers to trust in God’s timing and the unseen work of grace.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

The Power of Silent Witness: How can we practice silent, prayerful witness like Elizabeth Leseur when sharing our faith with loved ones who struggle with belief?
Sacrificial Love in Marriage: What does it mean to work for the salvation of one’s spouse, and how can we embody selfless love within our own marriages?
Trusting in God’s Timing: How can we cultivate greater trust in God’s timing, especially when praying for the conversion of someone we love?
The Call to Spiritual Parenthood: How can we, like Elizabeth and Félix, extend the love we might reserve for our children toward others in our families and communities?
Faith in the Midst of Suffering: How can Elizabeth’s example of enduring illness with grace inspire us to trust God more deeply during our own trials?
Hope for the Lost Sheep: How does Elizabeth’s unwavering belief in Félix’s eventual conversion challenge us to maintain hope and perseverance in prayer for those who seem far from God?
The Ordinary Path to Holiness: What does Elizabeth and Félix’s story reveal about the potential for holiness within ordinary, everyday life?
Marriage as a Path to Heaven: How can the Leseurs’ understanding of marriage as a shared mission for one another’s salvation influence the way we approach our own vocations?
The Mystery of Divine Mercy: How does the unfolding of Félix’s conversion after Elizabeth’s death demonstrate the limitless and unexpected ways God’s mercy operates?
The Witness of Christian Love: In what ways can we love others as Elizabeth did—without pressure or argument—so that they may encounter the love of God through our actions?

You can find the book here

From the book description:

“Élisabeth and Félix Leseur began their life together in France as a carefree young couple with a bright future ahead of them. They were beautifully and compatibly matched, except for one major difference—Élisabeth was a devout Catholic, and Félix was a firmly decided atheist. As they faced the seasons of life together, their relationship was tested, and both were called to deep spiritual transformation.

Out of love for her husband, Élisabeth spent her life offering her many sufferings for the sake of his conversion. After her death, and in response to the profound love he encountered in her writings, Félix converted and offered the rest of his life to God as a Dominican priest.

This biography is a lovely narrative of their marriage and the transformative power of God’s love and grace in their lives. It also presents a charming picture of upper-middle-class French society at the turn of the last century. The cause for the canonization of Élisabeth Leseur has been opened by the Catholic Church.”

IP#491 Joe Paprocki – 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith, Part 2 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:09 — 21.5MB) | Embed

Joe Paprocki on “8 Steps to Energize Your Faith”, Part Two on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Joe Paprocki joins Kris McGregor on Discerning Hearts to discuss his book Eight Steps to Energize Your Faith. Paprocki highlights the relational nature of faith, rooted in the Trinitarian image of God. He shares personal experiences as an introvert, especially during the isolation of the pandemic, to illustrate humanity’s inherent need for relationships and the importance of compassion, distinguishing it from empathy by noting that compassion leads to action. Paprocki connects these ideas to the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, encouraging parents to recognize the compassionate nature of their everyday responsibilities.

Paprocki reflects on the joy found in generosity, sharing insights from biblical stories such as the wedding at Cana and the feeding of the 5,000 to illustrate God’s abundant grace. Generosity isn’t limited to financial resources but extends to time, talent, and presence.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

The Relational Nature of God: How can you foster deeper relationships in your life to reflect the Trinitarian image of God?
Living Compassion Through Action: What steps can you take to move beyond empathy and practice compassion through concrete acts of mercy?
Participating in God’s Restorative Work: Where in your life can you contribute to repairing relationships or restoring hope in others?
Generosity as a Reflection of Divine Abundance: How can you practice generosity in your daily life with your time, talents, and resources?
The Gift of Stillness in the Spiritual Life: When can you make time to be still and simply rest in God’s presence this week?

You can find the book here.

From the book description:

“Act now to tap into the current of God’s loving grace.

While uncertainty and tough times are hallmarks of life, our current era feels more than a little unpredictable. And if we’re honest with ourselves, many of us are feeling uncertain about God’s plan. In times like these, we need a healthy boost of faith and a solid shot of inspiration to get through the day and lead us back to God. Pie-in-the-sky advice or overwrought platitudes won’t do. We need substantial, practical ways to fortify our souls.

In 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith, beloved spiritual teacher Joe Paprocki offers hands-on advice to guide us out of the fog of an often-confusing world and bolster our confidence in who we are—children of God with a vision and a purpose. This, of course, means growing in faith, but how? By tapping into God’s loving Spirit so we can go with the holy flow to put first things first and let the small stuff go.

Timely, inspiring, and filled with hard-earned, practical wisdom that applies to your life right now, 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith offers a path that we can all start on today to feel motivated, focused, and renewed in the Spirit.”

About the Author: Joe Paprocki, DMin, is National Consultant for Faith Formation at Loyola Press. He has over 40 years of experience in pastoral ministry and has taught at the high school, college, and general-adult levels. He is the author of over 20 books that have sold nearly a half-million copies, including the best sellers The Catechist’s Toolbox and A Well-Built Faith. His latest book, 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith, was published in 2023. He has presented in over 150 dioceses in North America and blogs about the catechetical ministry at www.catechistsjourney.com.

IP#490 Joe Paprocki – 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith, Part 1 on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:21 — 21.6MB) | Embed

Joe Paprocki on “8 Steps to Energize Your Faith”, Part One on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Eight Steps to Energize Your Faith, which explores practical ways to reconnect with God’s presence in everyday life. Paprocki draws on the examples of the prophet Elijah and George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life to illustrate the human experience of spiritual fatigue and the longing for renewed purpose. Many people, especially post-pandemic, feel depleted and seek divine energy to reawaken their desire to live fully. Through relatable stories and Ignatian principles, Paprocki encourages readers to recognize God’s presence in daily activities, even the mundane ones, and to nurture their spiritual lives through creativity, simplicity, and gratitude.

Authentic spirituality involves seeking meaning beyond the visible and recognizing God’s hand in creation. Steps like delighting in nature, simplifying possessions, and expressing creativity help individuals encounter God’s grace. The book is a resource not only for those firmly rooted in faith but also for those who identify as spiritual but not religious, inviting them to experience God’s presence in daily life and consider how faith practices can deepen that relationship.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Recognizing Spiritual Fatigue: What aspects of your faith life feel depleted, and how might you invite God’s divine energy to renew your spirit?
Finding God in Everyday Moments: Where have you recently experienced God’s presence in ordinary, daily activities?
Embracing Creativity as a Gift from God: How do you express creativity in your life, and how does it reflect your identity as a co-creator with God?
The Role of Pondering in Spiritual Growth: When was the last time you took time to ponder a significant event, and what did it reveal about God’s presence in your life?
Cultivating Gratitude for Spiritual Renewal: What blessings can you name today that remind you of God’s love and care?
Simplifying Life for Greater Clarity: What possessions, commitments, or distractions might you let go of to create more space for God?
Connecting with Creation as a Path to God: How can you intentionally spend more time in nature to grow in awareness of God’s creative power?
Accompanying Others in Their Faith Journey: How can you show love and support to those who identify as spiritual but not religious, meeting them where they are with compassion

You can find the book here.

From the book description:

“Act now to tap into the current of God’s loving grace.

While uncertainty and tough times are hallmarks of life, our current era feels more than a little unpredictable. And if we’re honest with ourselves, many of us are feeling uncertain about God’s plan. In times like these, we need a healthy boost of faith and a solid shot of inspiration to get through the day and lead us back to God. Pie-in-the-sky advice or overwrought platitudes won’t do. We need substantial, practical ways to fortify our souls.

In 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith, beloved spiritual teacher Joe Paprocki offers hands-on advice to guide us out of the fog of an often-confusing world and bolster our confidence in who we are—children of God with a vision and a purpose. This, of course, means growing in faith, but how? By tapping into God’s loving Spirit so we can go with the holy flow to put first things first and let the small stuff go.

Timely, inspiring, and filled with hard-earned, practical wisdom that applies to your life right now, 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith offers a path that we can all start on today to feel motivated, focused, and renewed in the Spirit.”