Episode 3006: Turning Back to God - Morning Episode

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Book Recommendation of the Day
The Five Theological Orations: St. Gregory of Nazianzus, deep theological discourses.
Turning Back to God: Lessons from the Law and the Light of Christ
As we continue through Lent, we look to Sacred Scripture for guidance and learn from the saints who have gone before us. Today’s readings call us to faithfulness and inner conversion, reminding us that obedience to God is the path to eternal life.
Epistle: Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-19
"Be ye holy, because I, the Lord your God, am holy… You shall not steal, neither shall you lie, neither shall any man deceive his neighbor."
In this passage, God instructs the Israelites on moral conduct, emphasizing the call to holiness. The law He gives is not simply about external observance but about forming a people who reflect His divine justice and goodness.
Reflection:
Holiness is not an option but a command. God calls each of us to be set apart, to live in a way that reflects His purity and love. Too often, we rationalize small sins deception, dishonesty, and lack of charity but today's reading reminds us that these separate us from God. True holiness begins in the heart and manifests in our actions.
Gospel: John 8:46-59
"Which of you shall convince me of sin? If I say the truth to you, why do you not believe me?"
This passage recounts Jesus’ confrontation with the Pharisees. He declares His divine nature, saying, “Before Abraham was, I am.” Instead of accepting Him, the Pharisees attempt to stone Him, unable to bear the truth of His words.
Reflection:
The rejection of Christ by the Pharisees mirrors the rejection of truth in our own times. Many refuse to acknowledge Jesus’ authority, preferring the comfort of their own opinions and sins. As Catholics, we must be vigilant against hardness of heart. Do we accept Christ’s teachings fully, or do we resist those that challenge us? Lent is a time to examine whether we truly submit to Christ as our Lord and God.

Saints of the Day: Traditional & Historical Feast Days
1. St. Jonas and St. Barachisius (4th Century) – Persian martyrs who suffered for their faith under the persecutions of King Shapur II. They endured extreme tortures but remained steadfast in Christ.
2. St. Eustasius of Luxeuil (c. 560-625) – A disciple of St. Columbanus, known for his missionary work and monastic reforms in France.
Reflection on the Saints:
The courage of St. Jonas and St. Barachisius calls us to perseverance in faith. Even when faced with suffering, they did not deny Christ. Likewise, St. Eustasius reminds us that true discipleship requires both discipline and evangelization. Are we willing to stand firm for our faith, even in a world hostile to Christ?
Themes for the Day
1. Holiness as a Command – God does not call us to mediocrity; He calls us to be holy as He is holy.
2. The Rejection of Christ – Just as the Pharisees rejected Jesus, the world continues to resist the truth. We must remain steadfast in faith.
3. Perseverance in the Face of Trial – The martyrs and saints show us the importance of endurance in faith, even when faced with suffering.
Conclusion & Prayer
As we prepare for Holy Week, let us take today’s readings and lessons to heart. We are called to holiness, to faithfulness, and to unwavering trust in Christ. Let us pray for the grace to remain firm in our devotion to Him.
Closing Prayer:
"O Lord, Thou hast called us to holiness and truth. Strengthen our hearts against the temptations of the world. May we follow Thee in all things, embracing Thy commandments with love and zeal. Through the intercession of Thy saints, grant us the courage to stand firm in faith, even in times of trial. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."