Episode 2230: Setting Our Minds on Heavenly Things - 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”
Setting Our Minds on Heavenly Things
In tonight’s episode, we’ll reflect on the importance of setting our minds on heavenly things, the transformative power of Christ's redemption, and how our sufferings can be turned to good. We will be drawing insights from St. Paul’s letter to the Colossians, and a profound reflection by Bob Schuchts. Join us as we delve into these teachings from a traditional Catholic perspective and discover how they can guide us in our daily lives.
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." — Colossians 3:2
St. Paul’s exhortation to the Colossians to set their minds on things above rather than on earthly things serves as a powerful reminder of the Catholic call to holiness and eternal perspective. From a traditional Catholic viewpoint, this scripture encourages believers to prioritize spiritual realities over temporal concerns
Focusing on "things that are above" means striving for virtues, cultivating a deep relationship with God, and living in accordance with His commandments. It involves a conscious effort to detach from materialism, selfish ambitions, and worldly distractions that can pull us away from our spiritual journey. This does not imply neglecting our earthly responsibilities, but rather, infusing them with a heavenly purpose and direction.
The Church teaches that by setting our minds on heavenly things, we align our lives with the ultimate goal of union with God. This heavenly focus gives us the strength to endure trials and resist temptations, knowing that our true home is not in this world but in the eternal kingdom of God.
"Isn't this the promise of the Gospel? St. Paul assures us that because of Christ's redemption and the Father’s providential love, all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose (Rom 8:28). Look at a crucifix or an image of the crucified Jesus in your imagination. Do you believe that we were healed by his wounds (1 Pt 2:24)? None of his suffering is wasted or superfluous: all of it has been necessary for our salvation and healing. Now look at your own suffering and wounds and even your own sins. Can you see how every wound you have ever incurred and every sin you have ever committed, if submitted to God and redeemed, will be worked for your greater good and not just for your good? This grace extends to all the people your life touches directly and indirectly in the present and for generations to come. This confidence allows us to live with great freedom." —Bob Schuchts
Bob Schuchts’ reflection brings to light the profound mystery of God’s redemptive work through Christ. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this quote emphasizes the transformative power of suffering and sin when surrendered to God.
The promise of the Gospel, as highlighted by St. Paul in Romans 8:28, assures us that God’s providence can bring good out of every circumstance for those who love Him. Schuchts invites us to contemplate the crucifixion, recognizing that Christ’s wounds were the means of our healing and salvation. This central truth of the Catholic faith underscores the sacrificial love of Jesus and the redemptive value of suffering.
By looking at our own sufferings and sins through the lens of the cross, we can understand that nothing is wasted in God’s economy of grace. Every wound and failure, when offered to God, can be transformed and used for our greater good and the good of others. This perspective gives us hope and freedom, knowing that God’s grace can turn even the darkest moments of our lives into channels of divine mercy and growth.

Conclusion:
As we reflect on St. Paul’s call to set our minds on heavenly things and Bob Schuchts’ insights on the redemptive power of Christ’s suffering, we are reminded of the profound truth that God’s love and providence encompass all aspects of our lives. By prioritizing our spiritual journey and trusting in God’s ability to bring good out of every situation, we can live with hope and freedom. Thank you for joining us in this exploration of faith. Until next time, may you keep your eyes fixed on heavenly things and find peace in God’s redemptive love. God bless.