Episode 2836: Answering God’s Call - Morning Episode

Episode 447: Holy Name of Jesus
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Saints & Theology Stigmata The appearance of Christ's wounds on the body of a saint.

In anticipation for the feast day of the Epiphany ("manifestation" or "appearance”) tomorrow, see the attached prayer for you and your family to recite together. Also don’t forget to pick up your epiphany chalk and holy water.
Epiphany Holy Water is more powerful than regular Holy Water due to the special blessing it receives during the liturgy of the Feast of the Epiphany. The ritual for blessing Epiphany Water is more elaborate and includes:
• The Litany of the Saints: Invoking the intercession of the saints adds a spiritual depth.
• Exorcisms: Both the water and salt are exorcized, explicitly driving away evil spirits.
• Sacred Prayers: The prayers used invoke the manifestation of Christ at His baptism, emphasizing His divine authority over creation.
• Triple Blessing: The priest often blesses the water in a triple sign of the cross, symbolizing the Holy Trinity.
Because of that, the elements make Epiphany Water revered for use in spiritual warfare, protection against evil, and blessings.
Answering God’s Call Through Our Labor and Trials
Welcome to today's episode, where we’ll explore the profound call God places on each of our lives. Drawing from the wisdom of saints and scripture, we’ll reflect on how God invites us to work for Him, seek Him in the midst of trials, and respond to His call with the joy and faithfulness of the wise men.
Part 1: Laboring for Him
“We are placed in our different ranks and stations, not to get what we can out of them for ourselves, but to labor in them for Him. As Christ has worked, we too have but to labor in them for Him. As Christ has His work, we too have ours; as He rejoiced to do his work, we must rejoice in ours also.” — St. John Neumann
St. John Neumann reminds us that our vocation whether as parents, workers, priests, or friends is not for selfish gain but for God's glory. Just as Christ embraced His mission on earth with joy, we are called to approach our own duties with the same spirit of obedience and delight.
But how often do we see our daily responsibilities as mere tasks to complete, rather than opportunities to serve Christ? When we offer our work to God, no matter how small or mundane, it becomes a participation in His redemptive mission.
Part 2: God’s Persistent Call
“Yet such are the pity and compassion of this Lord of ours, so desirous is He that we should seek Him and enjoy His company, that in one way or another He never ceases calling us to Him . . . Sometimes He calls souls by means of sickness or troubles, or by some truth He teaches them during prayer, for tepid as they may be in seeking Him, yet God holds them very dear.” - St. Teresa of Avila
St. Teresa of Avila beautifully illustrates God’s relentless pursuit of our souls. He speaks through the everyday moments of life whether it’s a conversation, a sermon, a book, or even suffering. Trials can feel like barriers, but they are often invitations to draw closer to Him.
Think of your own life: Have you ever experienced a moment of clarity during hardship? Perhaps it was God gently drawing you back to Himself. Even when we are lukewarm, God’s mercy never fails. He holds us dear, constantly reaching out to rekindle our love for Him.
Part 3: Following the Star
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him.’” — Matthew 2:1-2
The wise men’s journey to find Christ is a profound example of seeking God with determination and faith. They left behind the comforts of their homes, following only the light of a star. How often do we see such signs in our lives and hesitate, unsure of what lies ahead?
The Magi teach us to move forward with trust, knowing that God’s call always leads to greater fulfillment. Like the wise men, we are invited to bring our gifts our time, talents, and even our struggles to lay them at the feet of Jesus.
Conclusion: Responding to the Call
The saints and scripture encourage us to see every aspect of life our work, our trials, and our journey of faith as opportunities to respond to God’s call. By laboring with joy, trusting in His mercy during challenges, and seeking Him with determination, we align ourselves with His divine plan.
Closing Prayer
Let us end with a prayer for strength and guidance:
Loving Father, You have called each of us to labor for Your glory, to seek You in the midst of trials, and to follow Your light with unwavering faith. Grant us the grace to hear Your voice in every moment of our lives. May we labor with joy, trust in Your providence, and always seek Your presence. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. John Neumann, and St. Teresa of Avila, may we find the courage to answer Your call with love and faithfulness. Amen.
Thank you for joining us today. May you find peace and joy in responding to God’s call in your life. Until next time, go in the peace of Christ!