Episode 2986: Perseverance in Prayer and Trust in God - Morning Episode

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Book Recommendation of the Day
Catechetical Lectures: St. Cyril of Jerusalem, early instruction on the sacraments.
Perseverance in Prayer and Trust in God
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Today is March 15, 2025, a Lenten feria in preparation for Laetare Sunday. The Church calls us to deeper prayer, fasting, and repentance as we draw nearer to the Passion of Our Lord.
In today’s episode, we reflect on the themes of perseverance, trust in God, and rejection of sin, and conclude with a prayer.
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Epistle: Daniel 13:1-62 (The Story of Susanna)
"O eternal God, who knowest hidden things, who knowest all things before they come to pass."
🔹 Reflection:
• Susanna, a virtuous woman, is falsely accused but remains steadfast in her faith in God.
• The wicked judges symbolize the corruption of worldly power.
• Daniel as a figure of Christ: He defends the innocent and exposes injustice.
• Lesson for us: Trust in God, for He is the ultimate judge of truth and justice.
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Gospel: John 8:1-11 (The Woman Caught in Adultery)
"He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her."
🔹 Reflection:
• The Pharisees seek to condemn, but Christ shows mercy while calling for true repentance.
• This passage demonstrates God’s justice and mercy.
• Are we quick to judge others without examining our own sins?
• Do we trust in Christ’s mercy, truly repenting and turning away from sin?
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Traditional Saints & Feast Days (March 15, 2025)
1. St. Longinus (1st Century A.D.) – The Centurion Who Pierced Christ’s Side
• The Roman soldier who pierced Christ’s side with a lance (John 19:34).
• Recognized Jesus as the Son of God at the Crucifixion.
• Later converted, repented of his sins, and became a martyr.
• Lesson from St. Longinus:
o Even those who once rejected Christ can be converted.
o Repentance is possible for all who sincerely seek the truth

St. Zachary, Pope (†752 A.D.) – A Pope of Charity and Holiness
• Defended the Church against heresies and corruption.
• Known for his deep faith, generosity, and care for the poor.
• Lessons from St. Zachary:
o The Church must stand against false teachings and corruption.
o True leadership is rooted in humility and service.
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Themes of the Day
1. God’s Justice and Mercy – Susanna was saved because she trusted in God; the adulterous woman was forgiven because she repented.
2. Conversion and Repentance – St. Longinus reminds us that no one is beyond God’s grace.
3. Judging Rightly – The Pharisees sought to condemn others, yet Christ reminds us to examine our own sins first.
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Quotes for Reflection
• "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone." – John 8:7
• "O eternal God, who knowest hidden things, who knowest all things before they come to pass." – Daniel 13:42
• "Justice and mercy shall meet in Christ." – St. Augustine
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Conclusion & Prayer
As we continue our Lenten journey, let us:
• Trust in God’s justice and mercy.
• Repent sincerely and turn to Christ.
• Avoid judging others harshly, while striving for personal holiness.

Let us pray:
"O merciful Lord, grant us the grace to trust in Your justice, to seek Your mercy, and to repent of our sins with true contrition. As You spared Susanna and forgave the woman caught in adultery, forgive us our faults and lead us to holiness. Through the intercession of St. Longinus and St. Zachary, strengthen our faith and guide us in Your truth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
Thank you for joining today’s reflection. May God bless you and keep you steadfast in faith!