Episode 2380: Embracing the Present - 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 Present
Tonight, we'll explore the insights of St. Alphonsus Liguori and Scott Hahn as we discuss the importance of living in the present and the transformative power of confession. Let's journey together as we uncover how these teachings can help us focus on the now and prioritize the health of our souls.
The Gift of the Present Moment
St. Alphonsus Liguori's profound statement, "The past is no longer yours; the future is not yet in your power. You have only the present wherein to do good," reminds us of the importance of living in the present. This simple yet powerful truth calls us to focus on the present moment as the only time we have to act, to love, and to do good.
From a traditional Catholic perspective, this teaching resonates deeply with the concept of sanctifying the present moment. By focusing on the here and now, we align ourselves with God's will, making each action, however small, a step towards holiness. In this way, our daily lives become a continuous offering to God, filled with opportunities to grow in virtue and grace.
The Healing Power of Confession
Scott Hahn's analogy of confession as health care for the soul provides a relatable and insightful perspective. He compares confession to the various ways we care for our bodies: regular check-ups, taking medicine, and maintaining hygiene. Just as we prioritize our physical health, we must also tend to the health of our souls.
In the sacrament of confession, we encounter the divine physician who heals us from the wounds of sin. This sacrament is not merely a legalistic accounting of wrongs but a profound encounter with God's mercy and love. Through confession, we receive spiritual healing, cleansing, and the grace to overcome future temptations. It is a powerful means by which we restore our relationship with God and grow in spiritual health.
As Hahn suggests, if we dedicate so much effort to maintaining our physical well-being, should we not invest even more in the care of our immortal souls? Our bodies are temporary, but our souls are eternal. Regular confession helps us to keep our souls in a state of grace, ready to meet the Lord at any moment.
Practical Steps to Embrace the Present and Prioritize Confession
To live out these teachings, we must first cultivate an awareness of the present moment. Practicing mindfulness and gratitude can help us stay focused on the now. Begin each day with a prayer, offering your actions to God, and ask for the grace to recognize the opportunities to do good.
Next, prioritize regular confession. Make it a habit to examine your conscience daily and go to confession frequently. This practice not only keeps your soul healthy but also fosters a deeper relationship with God. Remember that confession is a sacrament of healing, a place where you can encounter God's boundless mercy.

Finally, integrate these practices into your daily routine. Just as you schedule time for physical exercise or medical appointments, set aside time for prayer, reflection, and confession. Surround yourself with reminders of God's presence, such as holy images, scripture verses, or a prayer journal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, St. Alphonsus Liguori and Scott Hahn offer us profound insights into living a holy and fulfilling life. By embracing the present moment and prioritizing the sacrament of confession, we can grow in virtue and maintain the health of our souls. Let us take to heart the wisdom of the saints and commit to living each day as an offering to God, seeking His grace and mercy through regular confession. Thank you for joining us today. May you be blessed with the strength to live in the present and the grace to seek God's healing through the sacrament of confession. Until next time, God bless.