Episode 2266: The Father’s Embrace - 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”
The Father’s Embrace
Tonight, we delve into the profound insights of St. Cyril of Alexandria and Raoul Plus, S.J., alongside a meaningful scripture reading from 1 John 3:1. We will reflect on the mystery of Christ and the intimate, loving presence of God the Father.
The Wonder of Christ's Mystery
St. Cyril of Alexandria:
"Indeed the mystery of Christ runs the risk of being disbelieved precisely because it is so incredibly wonderful."
St. Cyril of Alexandria highlights a beautiful paradox in our faith: the very wonder of Christ's mystery can make it difficult for people to believe. The divinity and humanity of Christ, His incarnation, suffering, death, and resurrection, are so profound that they often challenge human reason and comprehension. This mystery is not just a concept but a living reality that invites us into a deeper relationship with God.
From a traditional Catholic perspective, the mystery of Christ is central to our faith. It is celebrated in the liturgy, especially in the Eucharist, where we partake in the body and blood of Christ. The Church’s teachings, sacraments, and the lives of the saints continually reveal this mystery to us. St. Cyril’s insight encourages us to embrace these mysteries with faith, trust, and wonder, allowing them to lead us to a deeper encounter with Christ.
The Father’s Loving Presence
Raoul Plus, S.J.:
"The words 'In the name of the Father' do not cause me to think of a Father millions of miles away, or a Father who dominates me with His immensity so that my heart is more frightened than softened, but of a Father close by and within me - a Father who is there, and, to use an expression of Father Faber, who finds my soul the home of His Son, who is waiting for me at the door of my heart, and of the Holy Spirit, who intervenes in the conduct of my life so as to impart to it its eternal merit, who does everything with and will not leave me for one instant alone."
Raoul Plus beautifully contrasts the distant, intimidating image of God with the intimate, loving reality of the Father who is near and within us. This perspective invites us to see God not as a distant monarch but as a loving Father, intimately involved in our lives. The Holy Spirit, too, is depicted as our constant companion, guiding and empowering us to live lives of eternal significance.
In traditional Catholic spirituality, the understanding of God as a loving Father is foundational. This belief is reinforced by the teachings of Jesus, who revealed God’s fatherly love in His parables and actions. The Holy Spirit’s role in our lives is to deepen this relationship, making God’s presence real and personal. This understanding should inspire us to cultivate a life of prayer, trusting in God’s closeness and guidance in every moment.

1 John 3:1
"See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him."
This verse from 1 John underscores the radical truth of our identity as children of God. It reveals the depth of God’s love, which calls us into a familial relationship with Him. This truth is central to our faith, reminding us of our dignity and purpose in God’s eyes. The world’s failure to recognize this truth stems from its lack of knowledge of God.
This scripture calls us to live out our identity as God’s children with confidence and joy. It invites us to deepen our relationship with God through prayer, sacraments, and a life of virtue, reflecting His love in the world. Our lives, marked by faith and hope, become a testament to the reality of God’s love and presence.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on the mystery of Christ, the Father’s loving presence, and our identity as God’s children, let us embrace these truths with renewed faith. May we allow the wonder of Christ’s mystery to draw us closer to Him and may the Father’s love fill our hearts with peace and joy. Let us strive to live each day with a sense of God’s nearness, trusting in His love and guidance.
Thank you for joining us tonight. We hope today’s episode has deepened your faith and inspired you to live out your calling as a child of God. Until next time, keep your hearts open to the mystery of God’s love and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God bless you!