Episode 2889: The Steadfast Soul in a Changing World - 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 of God, 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.”
The Steadfast Soul in a Changing World
Introduction
Welcome to today’s episode, where we explore two profound truths of our faith: the dignity of every person as God’s creation and the spiritual steadfastness required in an ever-changing world. As we reflect on the teachings of St. Francis de Sales and Thomas à Kempis, we’ll connect their wisdom to Scripture and discover practical ways to live these virtues in our daily lives.
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Segment 1: The Dignity of Every Person
St. Francis de Sales reminds us:
"We must never undervalue any person. The workman loves not that his work should be despised in his presence. Now God is present everywhere, and every person is His work."
This quote invites us to view every person we encounter as a masterpiece of God. It challenges us to reject the world’s tendency to measure worth by wealth, status, or achievement. Instead, we are called to see every soul as infinitely precious, created in God’s image and redeemed by Christ.
The Scripture beautifully echoes this in Psalm 139:13-14:
"For Thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."
How often do we truly see others this way? Whether it’s the difficult coworker, the stranger in need, or even ourselves in moments of failure, this truth should reshape our interactions. Imagine the transformative power of honoring God’s presence in every person an act of love that glorifies the Creator.
Let us consider how we can reflect this awareness in practical ways:
• Speak words of kindness and encouragement.
• Show patience with those who frustrate us.
• Advocate for the vulnerable and defend the dignity of life from conception to natural death.
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Segment 2: The Winds of Change
Thomas à Kempis offers a powerful insight into the human condition:
"As long as you live, you will be subject to change, whether you will it or not... But a wise man who is well taught in spiritual labor stands unshaken in all such things, and heeds little what he feels, or from what side the wind of instability blows."
This timeless wisdom highlights the unpredictability of life. Joy and sorrow, energy and fatigue, clarity and confusion they ebb and flow like the tides. Yet, our spiritual maturity is revealed when we remain rooted in Christ amidst these changes.
St. Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 15:58:
"Be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
What does it mean to stand unshaken? It’s not about ignoring our feelings but about anchoring our hearts in God’s unchanging truth. When life feels unstable, we can turn to prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments for strength. St. Thomas à Kempis reminds us that our feelings though real are fleeting, but God’s grace is constant.
Practical ways to cultivate steadfastness include:
• Daily prayer and meditation to align our will with God’s.
• Regular reception of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession.
• Surrounding ourselves with holy friendships that encourage us to persevere.
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Segment 3: The Balance Between Dignity and Steadfastness
How do these two virtues honoring the dignity of others and cultivating steadfastness come together?
In the Gospels, Christ is our perfect model. He treated every person He encountered with love and respect, from the Samaritan woman to Zacchaeus. At the same time, He remained unshaken in His mission, even when faced with rejection, suffering, and death.
St. Francis de Sales teaches us to love others as God’s handiwork, while Thomas à Kempis reminds us that our stability must come from God, not from the approval or rejection of others. Together, these truths lead us to imitate Christ, who shows us how to love deeply and endure faithfully.
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Conclusion Prayer
Let us close with a prayer that asks God to help us embrace these lessons:
Heavenly Father,
You have made every person in Your image and likeness. Teach us to see Your presence in every soul we meet, and to honor the dignity You have bestowed on all Your children. Help us to be patient and loving, even when it is difficult, that we may glorify You through our words and actions.
Lord, in a world of change and uncertainty, grant us steadfast hearts. Anchor us in Your truth, so that we may remain unshaken in faith, hope, and love. Give us the courage to persevere in trials and to trust in Your providence, knowing that You work all things for the good of those who love You.
Through the intercession of St. Francis de Sales and Thomas à Kempis, may we grow in holiness, reflecting Your love to others while striving for Heaven. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.
Amen.
Thank you for joining me today. May God bless you and keep you steadfast in faith and love. Until next time, go forth with courage and a heart filled with His peace.