Episode 2215: Embracing the Cross with Jesus - 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”
Embracing the Cross with Jesus
"I embrace the Cross of my Jesus. I will carry it like Him in pain and ignominy. I wait at His hands, triumph and glory in the hereafter." — Blessed Anna Maria Taigi
Blessed Anna Maria Taigi’s profound statement reflects her deep spirituality and willingness to suffer with Christ. Her words provide a powerful lesson on the Christian understanding of suffering and its redemptive value.
Embracing the Cross: The act of embracing the Cross signifies a willing acceptance of suffering in imitation of Jesus. It is a central aspect of Christian discipleship, rooted in love and obedience to God’s will.
Pain and Ignominy: Taigi acknowledges that carrying the Cross involves enduring pain and humiliation, just as Jesus did. This reflects the reality of Christian suffering, which is often accompanied by trials and scorn.
Triumph and Glory: Despite the suffering, Taigi looks forward to the triumph and glory that await in the hereafter. This hope in the resurrection and eternal life gives meaning to present sufferings, encouraging perseverance and faithfulness.
The Hidden Sin of Pride and the Importance of Confession
"There are certain sins we seldom or never mention in our Confessions, either because our conscience is too easy or elastic or perhaps because we do not really desire to amend. Pride is one of these sins. There are but few who accuse themselves of it, but those who really wish to amend their lives should make it a special subject of their examine and Confession, in order to learn to hate it and repent of it and to make firm resolutions of amendment in the future."
This anonymous quote highlights a common challenge in the spiritual life: recognizing and confessing the sin of pride. It calls for a more thorough and honest examination of conscience.
Overlooked Sins: Certain sins, like pride, are often neglected in Confession due to a lack of self-awareness or a reluctance to change. This quote urges us to confront these hidden sins more diligently.
Examine and Confess: Regular examination of conscience and confession of pride are crucial for spiritual growth. By acknowledging and repenting of pride, we open ourselves to God’s grace and humility.
Firm Resolutions: Making firm resolutions to amend our lives helps us combat pride and other vices. It involves a commitment to ongoing conversion and dependence on God’s grace for transformation.
God's Steadfast Love and Comfort
"By day the Lord commands His steadfast love; and at night His song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life." — Psalm 42:8
Psalm 42:8 provides a beautiful reminder of God’s constant presence and love throughout our lives, offering comfort and strength in times of need.
Steadfast Love: God’s steadfast love is a central theme in the Psalms. It reassures us of His unwavering commitment and care for us, regardless of our circumstances.
Divine Presence: The imagery of God’s song being with us at night signifies His comforting presence during our darkest and most vulnerable moments. It is a source of peace and assurance.
Prayer and Trust: This verse encourages us to turn to God in prayer, recognizing Him as the God of our life. It reflects a deep trust in His providence and a reliance on His love for guidance and support.
Conclusion:
In this episode, we have reflected on the themes of embracing suffering with Jesus, the importance of a thorough Confession, and the comforting presence of God’s steadfast love. Blessed Anna Maria Taigi’s example, the call to examine and confess pride, and the reassurance of Psalm 42 guide us towards a deeper and more faithful spiritual life.

Thank you for joining me tonight and stay tuned for our next episode as we continue to explore the profound teachings of our faith. May God bless you and guide you on your spiritual journey. Don’t forget to pray for the poor souls in purgatory.