Episode 2410: Whom shall I fear - Morning Episode

Welcome to today's episode, where we’ll explore the deep love Christ has for us and how we, in turn, are called to love Him fully. We'll reflect on the profound insights of St. Clare of Assisi, who urges us to love Christ totally because He has given Himself entirely for our sake. We'll also consider the consoling words of Father Jeffrey Kirby, who reminds us of the Lord's presence and providence in every moment of our lives, whether in joy or suffering. Lastly, we'll draw strength from Psalm 27:1, a powerful reminder that the Lord is our light and salvation, and that with Him, we have nothing to fear.

The Total Love of Christ
The words of St. Clare of Assisi, "Totally love Him, Who gave Himself totally for your love," capture the essence of the Christian life. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this call to total love is a response to the total gift of Christ on the cross. Our Lord did not hold back in His love for us; He gave everything—His very life—out of love for us. This total self-giving is the model for how we are to love Him in return.

In our busy, often fragmented lives, it can be challenging to give ourselves fully to God. We are pulled in many directions by responsibilities, distractions, and the cares of the world. However, the example of St. Clare invites us to pause and consider how we can deepen our love for Christ. This doesn’t mean abandoning our duties or responsibilities, but rather integrating them into a life of love for God. Every action, no matter how small, can be an expression of our total love for Him when done with the right intention.

The Consoling Presence of Christ in Our Lives
Father Jeffrey Kirby's reflection on the Lord's providence is a beautiful reminder that God is not distant or detached from our daily lives. He is deeply involved in every aspect of our existence, from our struggles to our successes. The idea that Christ "walks with us" on the road of our lives is a source of immense consolation. In the Gospels, we see this vividly in the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Even in their confusion and sorrow, Jesus approached them, walked with them, and revealed Himself to them in the breaking of the bread.

"In the hustle and bustle of our lives, it is a great consolation that the Lord Jesus takes the initiative and approaches us. The providence of God, His fatherly care for us, is a humbling mystery that allows us to know of His presence in our lives. The Lord shows us this providence and comes directly to us "on the road" of our lives, of our suffering, confusion, anxiety, and of our joys, accomplishments, and hopes. The Lord is with us. Just as He asked the disciples about the events in Jerusalem, the Lord asks us: "What is happening in your lives?" He walks with us, listens to us, cares for us, and desires to be with us along the road of our lives." —Father Jeffrey Kirby

From a traditional Catholic perspective, this journey with Christ is central to our spiritual life. We are never alone in our struggles, our fears, or our joys. Christ is always present, asking us, "What is happening in your lives?" This question is not just a matter of curiosity; it is an invitation to bring everything to Him, to allow Him to walk with us, guide us, and transform our experiences with His grace. This awareness of Christ’s presence should fill us with hope and courage, knowing that the Lord Himself is our companion on the journey.

Trusting in the Lord’s Strength

Psalm 27:1 reminds us that "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" This verse beautifully encapsulates the confidence we are called to have in God’s providence and protection. In a world filled with uncertainties, anxieties, and fears, it is easy to become overwhelmed. However, the psalmist invites us to place our trust in the Lord, who is our light, our salvation, and our stronghold.

From the traditional Catholic viewpoint, this trust is not a passive resignation but an active surrender to God’s will. It is the recognition that, while we may not understand everything that happens in our lives, we can be confident that God is in control. This confidence doesn’t come from our own strength, but from the knowledge that God is with us, that He loves us, and that He has a plan for our lives that is ultimately for our good.

In our daily lives, this means turning to God in prayer, seeking His guidance, and trusting that He will lead us through whatever challenges we face. It also means cultivating a spirit of gratitude, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God, and responding to that gift with a heart full of love and trust.

Conclusion
As we conclude today’s episode, let us take to heart the words of St. Clare of Assisi and strive to love Christ totally, just as He has loved us. Let us find comfort in the knowledge that Christ walks with us on the road of our lives, sharing in our joys and our sorrows, and guiding us with His providential care. And let us place our trust in the Lord, who is our light, our salvation, and our stronghold, knowing that with Him, we have nothing to fear.

May this reflection inspire you to deepen your relationship with Christ, to love Him more fully, and to trust in His presence and guidance in every moment of your life. Thank you for joining us today, and may God bless you as you continue on your spiritual journey.