Episode 2234: Responding to God’s Call - 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”
Responding to God’s Call
Understanding the Church, and Embracing Divine Love
Tonight, we will reflect on the urgency of responding to God’s call, the profound nature of the Church, and the unwavering love of God. Our journey will be guided by the wisdom of St. Regis, the teachings on the Church, and a comforting scripture passage from the Psalms. Join us as we delve into these insights from a traditional Catholic perspective, seeking to deepen our faith and understanding.
"How long are you going to be deaf to His call? Or are you going to lose your soul, which Jesus Christ bought at the price of His Precious Blood?" St. Regis
St. John Francis Regis, a Jesuit missionary known for his fervent preaching, challenges us with a pressing question: How long will we ignore God’s call? This quote emphasizes the gravity and urgency of our response to God’s invitation to conversion and holiness.
From a traditional Catholic perspective, this call is not merely a suggestion but a profound summons from God, who desires our salvation. The reference to the Precious Blood of Christ underscores the immense sacrifice Jesus made for our redemption. It is a poignant reminder that our souls are of infinite value to God, purchased at the highest price.
Ignoring God’s call is not a neutral act; it risks the eternal destiny of our souls. St. Regis’s words compel us to examine our lives, to repent of our sins, and to embrace the path of holiness with urgency and commitment. This call to conversion is continuous, inviting us to renew our dedication to God daily.
"The Church is the Body of Christ, instituted by Christ as a means of assisting souls to be saved. Christ Himself is the head of the Body, and all the baptized are the members. According to the tradition held by the Church, it was founded on what we call today "Good Friday" through the wounded side of Christ. It was founded to continue the mission of Christ, the hope of the sinking world and of battered humanity. It is for this reason that the Catholic Church describes the Church of Christ on earth as a militant Church. It should be a warring Church indeed, a Church at battle with all the spiritual dark forces in the heavenly places in order to liberate souls held captive and lead them to salvation."

This passage provides a rich theological insight into the nature and mission of the Church. From a traditional Catholic viewpoint, the Church is not merely a human institution but the Body of Christ, with Christ Himself as the head and the baptized as its members.
The Church’s origin is deeply tied to the Passion of Christ, symbolically born from the wounded side of Jesus on Good Friday. This imagery reflects the Church’s mission to continue Christ’s work of redemption and salvation in the world. The Church is described as “militant” because it is actively engaged in spiritual warfare, battling against the forces of darkness to liberate souls and bring them to salvation.
This militant aspect of the Church highlights the seriousness of its mission. Every member is called to participate in this spiritual battle through prayer, sacrament, and living a holy life. The Church is a beacon of hope for a world in need, offering the saving grace of Christ to all who seek it.
"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 offers a beautiful reflection on the constancy of God’s love and presence in our lives. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this verse reassures us of God’s unwavering care and the intimate relationship He desires with us.
“By day the Lord commands His steadfast love” reminds us that God’s love is not passive but active and commanding. It guides and sustains us throughout our daily lives. At night, “His song is with me,” indicating that even in times of darkness or rest, God’s presence remains, providing comfort and peace.
This verse encourages us to maintain a continual dialogue with God through prayer. Recognizing Him as “the God of my life” emphasizes the personal nature of our relationship with the Divine. It calls us to trust in His love and to turn to Him in all circumstances, confident that He is always with us.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on the urgency of responding to God’s call with St. Regis, the mission and nature of the Church, and the steadfast love of God in Psalm 42, we are invited to deepen our commitment to our faith. Let us strive to heed God’s call, engage actively in the Church’s mission, and rest in the knowledge of His enduring love. Thank you for joining us on this spiritual journey. Until next time, may God’s grace and peace be with you always. God bless. Pray for poor souls.