Episode 2157: Overcoming Evil with Good: A Call in Troubled Times - Nightly Episode

“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints in heaven, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen.”
"Overcoming Evil with Good: A Call in Troubled Times"
Welcome to "Faith and Tradition," a podcast where we explore timeless wisdom from the Scriptures and the teachings of the Church Fathers to navigate today's challenges. In this episode, we delve into the powerful message of Romans 12:21, the practical advice of Raoul Plus, S.J., and the celestial praise found in Psalm 148:3. Join us as we discuss how to overcome evil with good, embrace our role in making the world better, and find inspiration in the heavens.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. — Romans 12:21
Romans 12:21 is part of a larger discourse by St. Paul on Christian conduct. This verse encapsulates the Christian duty to respond to evil not with retaliation, but with goodness and love. St. Paul’s exhortation is a call to personal holiness and social action rooted in the teachings of Christ, who himself overcame evil through his sacrificial love.
From a traditional Catholic perspective, this verse is a cornerstone for living out the Gospel in our daily lives. It challenges us to resist the natural inclination towards vengeance and instead adopt a Christ-like approach to conflict. Overcoming evil with good involves active charity, forgiveness, and a commitment to justice and peace.
Evaluate areas in your life where you face evil or injustice and consider how you can respond with goodness.
Community Involvement: Engage in parish activities that promote social justice and support the needy.
Prayer and Sacraments: Strengthen your resolve through regular participation in the sacraments, especially Confession and the Eucharist.
"There are many who lament that the world fares ill today. Has there ever been a time when you think it fared well? Doubtless, sometimes it has fared better, sometimes worse; and you are at liberty to think that this is one of the 'worse' moments. But what is the use of lamenting? It does no good. Rather let us say: if the world fares ill, then so much the more work for us to do if we want it to fare well." —Raoul Plus, S.J.
Raoul Plus, S.J., a Jesuit priest and author, addresses the perennial human tendency to view the present negatively compared to an idealized past. His quote urges action over lamentation, emphasizing the Christian duty to work towards improving the world regardless of the perceived decline in moral or social conditions.
This perspective is highly relevant today, as many people feel overwhelmed by societal problems. Instead of succumbing to despair, Plus encourages us to see these challenges as opportunities for increased Christian action. The traditional Catholic approach would include a commitment to social teachings, emphasizing the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.
Active Faith: Volunteer for initiatives that address social ills, such as feeding the hungry or supporting crisis pregnancy centers.
Education: Educate yourself and others on Catholic social teachings to better understand how to effect positive change.
Advocacy: Engage in advocacy for policies that reflect Catholic values, such as the sanctity of life and the protection of the family.
Praise Him, sun and moon, praise Him, all you shining stars! — Psalm 148:3
Psalm 148 is a hymn of universal praise to God, calling upon all of creation to glorify the Creator. Verse 3 highlights the sun, moon, and stars as participants in this cosmic liturgy. This psalm reminds us of the beauty and order of God's creation, encouraging us to join in this universal act of worship.
For traditional Catholics, Psalm 148:3 is a reminder of the harmony and beauty of creation, reflecting God's glory. It calls us to recognize our place within this created order and to offer our own lives as a form of praise. The celestial bodies’ praise of God can inspire us to live in a way that reflects His glory in our daily actions.
Contemplation: Spend time in nature to reflect on the beauty of creation and God’s presence in it.
Liturgical Participation: Engage actively in the liturgy, seeing it as our highest form of praise and worship.
Stewardship: Practice environmental stewardship as an act of respect and gratitude for God's creation.
Conclusion:
In times of trouble and moral decline, our faith calls us not to despair but to action. By overcoming evil with good, actively working to improve the world, and joining creation in praising God, we fulfill our Christian duty. Let us draw strength from the Scriptures and the wisdom of the saints to be beacons of light in a dark world.
Thank you for joining us on "Faith and Tradition." Stay tuned for our next episode, and may God bless you in your efforts to live out the Gospel each day. Pray for the poor souls.