In this episode, we conclude season 16 by remembering with gratitude all the things God has done and is doing in our lives. We reflect on the importance of allowing our hearts to be drawn into beauty in the midst of both joy and sorrow. We also talk about maturity vs self reliance, allowing ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit, and the relationship between trust and receptivity. Thank you dear friends for journeying with us this season! You will be in our prayers this summer and we are excited about what’s in store this Fall!

Heather’s One Thing - All to Bless You and Low (Live) by Kory Miller 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Magdala Grove

Michelle’s One Thing - I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Fr. Jean Delaby

Journal Questions:

• Pause and take a moment to notice the surrounding beauty. What do I notice? How might the Lord be speaking to me through this beauty?
• Am I perplexed by the mystery of how God is working in my life? How might He be working all things for good in this season?
• How do I keep my union with the Lord? What is coming against that right now?
• In my suffering and darkness, where do I turn my face? Am I allowing myself to be led or am I trying to control?
• What is the Lord inviting me to do this summer?

Discussion Questions:

• Are you in a season where it is difficult to be grateful? Why or why not?
• In the midst of regular life, what is taking you away from union with God?
• How have you encountered the love of God in your life?
• God is always doing something new. How can you breathe in new hope?
• What are you looking forward to this summer? 

Quote to Ponder:

“To limit your desires and your hopes is to misunderstand God’s infinite goodness!” (St. Therese of Lisieux)

Scripture for Lectio:

“Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles…” (Psalm 105:5)

Sponsor - House of Joppa:

We're proud to be sponsored by House of Joppa, a family-owned Catholic shop where modern design meets timeless tradition. From stunning Catholic jewelry to sacred art and décor, everything they offer is crafted to reflect the beauty of our faith.

Explore their full collection at houseofjoppa.com

Timestamps: 

00:00 - House of Joppa

01:00 - Intro

01:51 - Welcome

04:18 - What’s Been on Our Minds

09:35 - Union with God

10:43 - Year of Hope

13:32 - Abiding 

17:30 - Maturing of Love

19:20 - Turning to God

22:04 - Favorite Moments from Season 16

26:31 - What We are Looking Forward to this Summer

33:20 - Final Thoughts

34:59 - One Things

In this episode, we conclude our conversation on life transitions with Michelle’s husband, Chris Benzinger. We focus on the second and third steps in walking through transitions: releasing with trust and redeeming with hope. We talk about God wanting to redeem our past, the need to let go of the ways we’ve failed, and how God wants to do something new in the future. We also reflect on the importance of ceremony to conclude a season, the four responses to a loss, and why we should share our hopes for the future with God.

Heather’s One Thing - Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine's Confessions by Dr. Shane Owens

Sister Miriam’s One Thing -  Mediterranean Chicken Bowls

Michelle’s One Thing - Belovedness: Overcoming Your Inner Critic - A Lyrical Devotional by Sarah Kroger

Chris’ One Thing - Running a 5k with his daughter Lilly 

Journal Questions:

• What was good about the previous season of my life? Am I grieving or still carrying hurts? 
• What is God specifically asking me to release from this past season? 
• In this next season of my life, what is one thing God is making new?
• What is one hope I have for this next season of my life?

Creative Prompt:

• Take a bookmark and decorate it with your hopes for the next season and place it in your Bible. It will serve as a reminder in the next chapter of your life.

Discussion Questions:

• Reflect back upon the past few years and choose one big or small transition in your life. 
  • What is one thing you are grateful for in the past season of your life?
  • What is God calling you to release with trust from that past season?
  • As you look to this current season, what action can you take to ceremonialize the end of an old season and create the foundation for a new season?
• Are you able to name what you desire? Why or why not?
• How are you responding to loss in your current season of life?
• What is something new God is doing in the current season of your life?

Quote to Ponder:

“Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not. See I am doing something new. Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18)

Scripture for Lectio:

“But now thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, and formed you O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; and you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)

Sponsor - Karol Coffee Co.: This week’s sponsor is more than just a coffee company. Karol Coffee Co. was inspired by the life and work of one of the most beloved saints of the modern era: Karol Wojtyła, better known to the world as Pope St. John Paul II. His life was a testimony to courage, joy, and cultivating beauty that draws souls into union with Jesus and one other. From his days as a young priest in Nazi-occupied Poland to his years leading the global Church, St. John Paul II consistently called people to embrace truth, goodness, and beauty in every aspect of their lives. Karol Coffee Co. seeks to carry on that mission in a small but meaningful way — by bringing community, love, and joy into the heart of our everyday routines through coffee.

Founded by Nate and Megan Whipple, a faithful Catholic couple rooted in mission, Karol Coffee Co. began humbly in 2022 as a simple garage-based roasting operation in Minneapolis, Minnesota. What started as a passion project quickly became something greater, thanks to the encouragement and support of fellow Catholics and coffee enthusiasts. In just a short time, their venture has grown into a thriving small business that now serves customers all over the country.

In an age when many of our purchases inadvertently support massive corporations with values often at odds with our own, supporting small, Catholic-owned businesses has never been more important. Karol Coffee Co. offers an alternative: ethically-sourced, traceable coffees roasted with care and intention. Each batch is crafted not only for flavor but with the desire to honor the dignity of those who cultivate the beans and to support communities around the world.

Their rotating coffee offerings include a range of carefully selected beans from notable coffee-growing regions with flavor profiles to suit a variety of preferences. Karol Coffee Co. makes it easier to keep your kitchen stocked with beans through bi-weekly or monthly subscription options. Fresh, delicious coffee delivered right to your door — no last-minute grocery runs or chain coffee stops required.

But beyond the coffee itself, what makes Karol Coffee Co. truly remarkable is the heart behind it. Nate and Megan have built their business around community and mission. It’s about more than just selling beans; it’s about creating opportunities for people to encounter beauty, truth, and goodness in the midst of their everyday lives, and to share that with the people around them. They have a passion for creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds and walks of life to experience connection and unity through the shared love of coffee and beauty.

We’d love for you to get to know them and become part of their growing community. You can visit their website at www.karolcoffeeco.com to explore their current offerings, sign up for a subscription, or learn more about the mission behind the brand. You can also follow along with them on Instagram @karolcoffeeco. 

And if you’re ever passing through St. Paul, Minnesota, be sure to visit their brand-new brick-and-mortar coffee shop. Their beautiful shop is a space where faith, community, and great coffee come together in a setting that feels like home. The walls are covered in paintings by local artists, as well as those of Megan herself (@meganwhippleart). You can even find a portrait of Pope Saint John Paul II painted by Megan (prints available on the Karol Coffee Co. website - https://karolcoffeeco.com/products/megan-whipple-art-karol-8x10-print). The shop offers a simple but complete food menu of organic and locally sourced food and a great variety of caffeinated and non-caffeinated drinks. 

So whether you’re looking to start your mornings with a little more purpose, support a Catholic business, or simply discover some truly great coffee, we wholeheartedly encourage you to check out Karol Coffee Co.

Use code ABIDING for 10% your first order.

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Karol Coffee Co.

01:36 - Intro

02:26 - Welcome

03:13 - Releasing with Trust

07:26 - Your Past Seasons

13:24 - Four Responses to Loss

16:55 - Our Responses to Losses in Life

25:56 - Redeem with Hope

27: 30 - Redemption in Our Lives

33:29 - One Things

In this episode, Chris Benzinger joins us to discuss navigating big and small life transitions. We have all probably found ourselves on the other end of a transition feeling unfulfilled or confused. Chris takes us through a reflection of Joshua leading the Israelites across the Jordan and relates it to change in our lives. We talk about why it can be difficult to move on from blessings of the past and how remembering with gratitude is the first step in walking through transitions. We also discuss the practice of taking memorial stones with us to remember the Lord’s blessings, giving thanks in all circumstances, and growing a lens of gratitude. Join us for part two next week!

Heather’s One Thing - Festival of Praise at Franciscan University

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Sacramental transitions

Michelle’s One Thing - Chris!

Chris’ One Thing - Michelle :)

Journal Questions:

• What transitions am I currently going through?
• How have I experienced transition in the past?
• What do I need to remember with gratitude?
• What truth is the Lord speaking to me in my current circumstances?

Discussion Questions:

• What are you most grateful for in your recent transitions in life?
• What did the Father show you about His character in the previous season?
• What are the greatest fears you experience when facing transition?
• How will you allow space in your heart as you experience changes in your season of life?
• How can you embrace both the grief of what has ended and the joy of the new adventure in your transition?

Quote to Ponder:

“And the Lord said to Joshua, “Command the priests who bear the ark of the testimony to come up out of the Jordan.” Joshua therefore commanded the priests, “Come up out of the Jordan.” And when the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the Lord came up from the midst of the Jordan, and the soles of the priests’ feet were lifted up on dry ground, the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed all its banks, as before.” (Josua 4:15-18)

Scripture for Lectio:

“Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Sponsor - Our Holy Home:

We’re so grateful to partner this season with Our Holy Home — a Catholic brand that’s on a mission to fill homes with beauty, subtle reminders of faith, and a deep sense of peace in the everyday. Their best-selling dish towels are a simple but powerful way to build up the domestic church — and honestly, we can’t get enough of them.

These aren’t your average towels. Each design is thoughtfully created to reflect the joy and truth of the Catholic faith — with soft colors, minimalist artwork, and meaningful words that uplift your spirit even during the most mundane moments in the kitchen. Whether you’re drying dishes, wiping hands, or hanging them from the oven for a decorative touch, these towels serve as gentle reminders that holiness is found in the home — and often, in the mess.

Here’s why we love them:

Subtle, beautiful Catholic designs that blend seamlessly into your home decor

Functional and high-quality — made to be used, not just admired

Faith-filled reminders that inspire prayer, peace, and purpose in your daily tasks

Perfect for gifting — especially for housewarmings, weddings, baby showers, or that mama friend who’s in the trenches

Whether you're living liturgically or just trying to bring a little more intention into your everyday routines, these towels are a small way to make a big impact.

👉 Shop their dish towel collection here (ourholyhome.com/AT)

And while you're there, take a look at their other offerings — planners, seasonal decor, and Catholic home goods that all carry the same spirit of joyful reverence and purpose.

Our Holy Home is a proud Catholic Concepts brand, made with love by a passionate team that believes beauty can evangelize — especially within the walls of your own home.

Visit ourholyhome.com/AT  to explore their full collection and bring home goods that reflect the heart of our faith.

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Our Holy Home

01:18 - Intro

02:09 - Welcome

04:42 - Big and Small Transitions

05:15 - Three Step Process

06:38 - Remember with Gratitude

09:18 - Memorial Stones

13:48 - Planting a Sense of Gratitude

15:05 - Stones of Remembrance in Our Lives

23:00 - God’s Promises

25:49 - Reflection Question and Activity

28:06 - One Things

In this episode, we reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis. We talk about how, during his Pontificate, Pope Francis emphasized joy and, through his example, helped us remember to embody this joy in our daily lives to bring others into the Church. We also acknowledge how God has used Pope Francis to speak to us through his writings and discuss which of these writings most profoundly impacted us, how we can pray for our next Pope, and share what we think will be his lasting legacy. 

Heather’s One Thing - Her Parents

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Firm Foundation by Cody Carnes (and the Maverick City Music Remix ;))

Michelle’s One Thing - Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington , NC

Other Resources Mentioned: 

• Papal Homily on the Revolution of Tenderness
• Pope Francis’ Surprise TED Talk
• Patris Corde - Apostolic Letter
• Dilexit Nos - Encyclical
• Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel) - Apostolic Exhortation 
• List of Cardinals attending the Conclave

Abiding Together Episodes on Pope Francis’ Writings:

• The Joy of the Gospel Study
• Rejoice and Be Glad Study
• The Sacred Heart (three part series)
• C’est la Confiance (two part series)
• Revolution of Tenderness

Journal Questions:

• How have I been blessed by Pope Francis’ pontificate?
• In what ways do I experience the Gospel as Lent without Easter?
• How can I embrace the lessons Pope Francis has taught me throughout his papacy in my life?
• How can I pray for the Church during the conclave?

Discussion Questions:

• How did you receive the news of Pope Francis’ passing?
• How can we live out Pope Francis’ vision of the Church as a field hospital in our own lives?
• Which of Pope Francis’ writings left an impactful impression on you?
• What’s one word you would use to describe Pope Francis’ legacy?

Quote to Ponder:

"Joy adapts and changes, but it always endures, even as a flicker of life born of our personal certainty that, when everything is said and done, we are infinitely loved." (Pope Francis)

Scripture for Lectio:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)

Sponsor - Glory: Women’s Conference:

This week’s episode is sponsored by the Glory: Women’s Conference hosted by Steubenville Conferences and our very own Heather Khym! We want to invite you to join Heather, Michelle, and our dear friends Debbie Herbeck, Sarah Kaczmarek, Monica Richards, and Sarah Kroger who will be leading us in worship, this June 6-8 in Steubenville, Ohio as we gather with women across generations and seek God’s presence.

We are just about one month out from the Glory: Women’s Conference and tickets are still available! This is the first one and we want you to be part of it, especially since it’s over Pentecost weekend and we know the Holy Spirit will be showing up in big ways.

The conference schedule will include talks, worship, prayer experiences, and the opportunity to interact with fellow Abiding Together listeners and new friends from all over who will be flying in. Heather and Michelle would absolutely love to meet you. Whether you come with your Abiding Together small group, with a close friend, or on your own, we can’t wait to gather in fellowship with you.

Visit steubenvilleconferences.com/events/glory for more information or to register!

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Glory: Women’s Conference

01:10 - Intro

02:01 - Welcome

04:14 - How We Found Out

07:02 - His Funeral and the Upcoming Conclave

08:30 - A Grace-filled Time

09:54 - Evangelii Gaudium (Joy of the Gospel)

13:36 - The Church as a Field Hospital

15:52 - Revolution of Tenderness

18:26 - The Lord Deeply Cares for Us

19:48 - Dilexit Nos (The Sacred Heart)

20:27 - The Holy Spirit and the Holy Family

21:12 - His Lasting Legacy

26:08 - How Can We Pray?

29:52 - One Things

In this episode, we conclude our Lenten book study by focusing on the epilogue and sharing ideas on how to prepare for the Triduum. During Holy Week, our Lord invites us to join Him on His Paschal journey. We reflect on how He takes on our suffering, sin, and brokenness and brings them to the Father so that death may be destroyed forever. We also talk about the importance of remembering how God has transformed our lives, the call to “be not afraid”, and how our Lord is restoring our deepest identities. You are in our prayers dear friends, and we will see you again in the Easter season!

Heather’s One Thing - Glory: Women’s Gathering (June 6th-8th 2025)

Heather’s Other One Thing - The Pause App from Wild at Heart

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Peaceful Guitar Playlist from Spotify

Michelle’s One Thing - Everything about Easter (the Liturgy, flowers, decorations…everything!)

Announcement:

We will be taking a two week break for Easter and will see you again on May 5th!

Journal Questions:

• Where do I need the Lord to grow my capacity?
• Where do I still need resurrection?
• What sorrowful places in my life need a reminder of the Lord’s victory?
• Where in my life do I despise or push away or idolize my humanity?

Discussion Questions:

• How can you embrace a kingdom mindset this Holy Week?
• What has been your Jubilee story?
• How do you see your humanity as an obstacle rather than a gift to the world?
• How does the Lord want to personally and individually restore your humanity?

Quote to Ponder:

“There are ways of being crucified that do not involve rough wood and heavy nails, but a love beyond our capacity to love, which means a love that has been given to us by God.” (Catherine Doherty)

Scripture for Lectio:

“The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, The King of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “do not be afraid daughter of Zion; look your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt.”” (John 12:12-15)

Sponsor - Mary Powathil:

Mary Powathil, a Houston-based iconographer and fine artist, creates sacred artwork that invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Mary’s work has been featured worldwide, at the National Eucharistic Congress, and even the upcoming Sugar Land Arts Festival. Her icons serve as windows into heaven and can be commissioned or printed. Mary also designs custom prayer books to help families grow in holiness through daily prayer. Her art truly can be used as tools for living a faith-filled life. 

Visit www.marypowathil.com or follow her on Instagram @mkpcreates. 

Use code ABIDE10 for 10% off your first order!

Commissions

Original Artwork for Sale

Prints for Sale

A Look at the Icon Design Process

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Mary Powathil

01:25 - Intro

02:18 - Welcome

03:44 - Our Personal Resurrection Stories

05:24 - Do Not Be Afraid

08:10 - Speaking Truth

09:39 - Honor and Honesty

11:09 - Restoration of Our Deepest Identities

13:14 - The Importance of Remembering

15:13 - Humanity

17:11 - An Individual and Unique Love

17:49 - Pray for Priests and Holy Week Services

21:03 - The Tears that Fell

22:49 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapter 9 and the conclusion. We reflect on the goodness of God and why we need not be afraid even when we do not understand what He is doing or how He is working in our lives. We also talk about how the Holy Spirit is like a salve to the wounds in our life, the importance of taking the authority we’ve been given by God, and why hungering and thirsting for God allows us to grow in intimacy with Him.

Heather’s One Thing - Healing Prayers and Renunciations by Dr. Bob Schuchts

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Mango Salsa Recipe

Michelle’s One Thing - The Way of Love by Marie Miller

Journal Questions:

• How can I make Jubilee a lifestyle?
• How does my heart respond to the unexpected works and movements of the Holy Spirit?
• Where in my life do I need to welcome the Holy Spirit?
• Where does the Lord want to liberate me?

Discussion Questions:

• How can you embrace the spirit of Jubilee and not the letter of Jubilee?
• How will you embrace the sacraments, pilgrimages, and indulgences this year?
• Where in your heart do you feel like you need to be cautious and protective with the Lord?
• What are the things in your life filling you with a false satiation?
• What are the graces you’ve received this Lent?

Quote to Ponder:

“For that reason, the Jubilee 2025 is a highly appropriate time for individuals and communities to enter more deeply into the life of the Holy Spirit.” (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 111)

“What are some practical steps to bring jubilee into our hearts? How do we embrace the Spirit of jubilee and not the letter of jubilee? How do we make good use of 2025 and the years following? How do we make jubilee a lifestyle? How do we sustain liberty? There are three simple answers: sacraments, pilgrimages, and indulgences.” (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 113)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Sponsor - West Coast Catholic:

If you want to create a beautiful Catholic home or you’re looking for that perfect Catholic gift, but struggle to find pieces that match your modern aesthetic then you have just found the perfect brand for your life and home. West Coast Catholic is a Catholic lifestyle brand that creates beautiful faith filled lifestyle products and prayer tools that bring an essence of Heaven to your everyday life.

From rosaries to home goods, jewelry, apparel, devotionals and more, all of their products are made to draw you closer to God and are uniquely designed with a modern aesthetic so you don’t have to compromise your personal style when incorporating faith into your life.

Whether you’re shopping for Easter or Mothers Day coming up or other events like weddings, sacraments and birthdays, — West Coast Catholic has the most beautiful and meaningful gifts designed to inspire and equip you to live a faith-filled life.

So head over to westcoastcatholic.co to explore the shop, and use code ABIDE10 for 10% off your order!

And be sure to follow along on Instagram at @westcoastcatholic and their founder Mari @mari.c.wagner for more faith-filled inspiration.

Timestamps: 

00:00 - West Coast Catholic

01:30 - Intro

02:06 - Welcome

05:20 - Scripture Verse and Guiding Quote

06:20 - The Holy Spirit

08:40 - A Salve to Our Wounds

10:28 - He is Good

12:28 - In the School of the Holy Spirit

14:23 - Sacraments, Pilgrimages, and Indulgences

18:31 - Taking Authority

20:30 - Are We Hungry Enough?

22:44 - Stirring Up Hunger

24:44 - The Price of Liberation

27:40 - Graces Received During Lent

29:09 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapters 7 & 8. We reflect on the many ways Jesus wants to make us whole, by exercising the evil out of our lives, forgiving our sins, and leading us to freedom. We also compare that to what the enemy is trying to do, make us feel alone, scatter the pieces of our heart, and bring us out of communion with each other and with God. Jesus wants to love us into healing and is waiting for our invitation. It is up to us to open the door and allow Jesus to enter ever deeper into our hearts. 

Heather’s One Thing - Authentic Masculinity and Intimacy with Jesus - A Pints with Aquinas Episode w/ John Eldredge (YouTube) (Spotify)

Heather’s Other One Thing - Songs in the Desert Spotify Playlist

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - March Madness

Michelle’s One Thing - She Loved: Resting in the Beauty of Motherhood by Suzanne Bilodeau 

Other Resources Mentioned: 

• Daily Examen
• The Song “When I Forget” by Amanda Cook

Announcement:

It’s not too late to order your copy of “Jesus and the Jubilee” at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. There are also bulk discounts available. 

Journal Questions:

• Have I experienced the revelation of Christ’s identity as the Messiah in a personal way?
• What little parts of my heart has the Lord been restoring this Lent?
• How has God been personally restoring my relationship with Him, exorcising me from evil, and bringing me into relationship with my neighbor?
• Spend time in prayer and meditate on the image of a door with locks on it. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you: What is the name of this lock?

Discussion Questions:

• How has my heart been pierced by this intricate story of salvation?
• What are you feasting on in relation to your fasting this Lent?
• “We all need exorcism.” How do you see this truth in your own heart and life?
• Where can you invite the Holy Spirit into my heart for restoration?

Quote to Ponder:

“Even though he is God in the flesh and could organize his ministry in any way, notice that Jesus chose: (1) relationship with God, (2) exorcism of evil, and (3) relationship with neighbor. Deliverance flows from God, not man.” (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 72-73)

Scripture for Lectio:

 “Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” (Matt 18:18)

Sponsor - Heritage Retreat Center:

Discover Heritage — A Sacred Destination for Renewal

Looking for a place to unplug, reconnect, and deepen your faith?

Heritage is a revitalized Catholic settlement, just two hours east of Atlanta, where faith,

history, and natural beauty converge.

Set on 200 peaceful acres, Heritage offers:

- Cozy cottages for restful overnight stays

- A historic church rich in tradition

- Religious art to inspire reflection

- Prayer gardens for quiet contemplation

- Meeting spaces for groups seeking connection

- Delicious, all-inclusive meals to nourish both body and soul

Whether you’re coming for the day or staying overnight, Heritage provides a serene escape with

plenty of outdoor space for exploring nature and embracing stillness.

One guest described her visit as:

“Serene, beautiful, and oh so peaceful. This place truly fills your cup! I’ve visited twice now and

can’t wait to go back.”

Come experience the peace for yourself!

➡️ Learn more at HeritageGA.org or follow us on Instagram at @heritage.ga. Have questions? DM us anytime! ❤️

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Heritage Retreat Center

01:23 - Intro

02:15 - Welcome

03:26 - Deliverance Comes from the Lord

04:59 - A World at War

07:19 - Back to Nazareth

08:48 - Bringing the Many Parts Together

10:15 - He is Who He Says He is

11:32 - A Continuous Liberation and Invitation

14:09 - The Arrows the Hit Our Soul

16:39 - We All Need Exorcism

19:28 - Feasting on the Holy Spirit

21:29 - The Power of Confession

25:36 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapters 5 & 6. We talk about the original roots of jubilee in the Old Testament, if the Israelites actually observed the jubilee, and how the Dead Sea Scrolls are relevant to jubilee. We also reflect on the importance of prophetic voices, the need to prepare for Sabbath, and why having an open heart allows the Lord to exceed our expectations. 

Heather’s One Thing - Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls Video Series with Dr. John Bergsma and Fr. Dave Pivonka

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - How Change Occurs Series Part 1 and Part 2 from Restore the Glory Podcast

Michelle’s One Thing - The House of David (Trailer)

Announcement:

It’s not too late to order your copy of “Jesus and the Jubilee” at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. There are also bulk discounts available. 

Journal Questions:

• What areas are the smallest and weakest in my life that God wants to magnify in the Jubilee?
• What are the laws and rituals of the Catholic Faith that I ignore or overlook?
• How did the Lord design you to rest?
• Where are the parts of my life where I say “this is as good as it’s gonna get?”
• When in my life has God exceeded my expectations?

Discussion Questions:

• How are you putting the Jubilee into practice?
• How can I prepare my heart and my life for deeper rest?
• When are you tempted to offer something up that the Lord didn’t ask you to offer up?
• Who are the prophetic voices of hope and repentance in your life?

Quote to Ponder:

“Jeremiah decreed that the land would rest seventy years – one for each missed Sabbath year – before the Lord would fulfill his promises, provided Israel repented and had an obedient heart.” (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bersgma, Page 57)

Scripture for Lectio:

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me. Because the Lord has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to those who are bound. To proclaim the year of God’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn.” (Isaiah 61:1-2)

Sponsor - The Inspired Living:

The Inspired Living is your one-stop shop for Easter basket items & Sacrament gifts this Spring!

As an online shop sourcing Catholic home decor, books, and gifts, we believe that our spiritual lives begin at home, and should be a reflection of that which is eternally beautiful, God Himself.

At The Inspired Living we have intentionally curated and sourced into one place the best Catholic products - whether that be decor for your home, gifts for sacraments, or books and sacramentals that will enhance your domestic church. We offer a unique array of handcrafted goods and exquisite gifts made by artisans not only in the United States, but around the world.

Head to our website to find:

• Beautiful fine jewelry
• One-of-a-kind sacrament gifts
• Sacred art & crucifixes
• Faith-enriching toys
•  And so much more

Use the code ABIDE20 for an exclusive 20% off discount at checkout!

Timestamps: 

00:00 - The Inspired Living

01:00 - Intro

01:52 - Welcome

02:32 - Scripture Verse

03:08 - Our Roots in the Old Testament

05:20 - Did the Jews Practice the Jubilee Year?

06:42 - Times and Places of Grace

08:16 - You Prepare for Sabbath

10:03 - Come Back to Your First Love

12:42 - Settling for Bondage

13:32 - Prophetic Voices

16:14 - The Dead Sea Scrolls

18:45 - Letting Go of Our Expectations

22:17 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapters 3 & 4. We discuss the Ten Commandments, how they teach us to say yes to true freedom, and why our voluntary yes helps us live in deeper communion with God and those around us. We also reflect on finding Eden in our Churches or homes, discovering our golden calves, and the significance of doing our daily duty well.

Heather’s One Thing - Abundance of Grace Prints

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Vickie, Chris, and Fr. Patrick at Holy Trinity and St. Michael's Parishes in Kewaskum, WI (See the picture on our website here) 

Michelle’s One Thing - The Richest Leprechaun in Ireland by Elise Daniel

Announcement:

It’s not too late to order your copy of “Jesus and the Jubilee” at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. There are also bulk discounts available. 

Journal Questions:

• How is my experience of the Church being broken open and expanded throughout this study?
• Where have I been filling myself with things other than the Lord? Where have I been the unfaithful bride to the Lord?
• How do I rationalize your idols and areas of bondage in daily life?
• Do I allow myself to rest well and rest deeply?

Discussion Questions:

• How can we create a space in our home for people to rest?
• How have you experienced authentic freedom and sanctity in the “no’s” of Christianity and the Commandments?
• What external and internal structures in different areas of your life help to sustain your freedom?
• How are you tempted to replace the honest work of doing your daily duty well with other good things?

Quote to Ponder:

“But they lacked the garden-sanctuary of Eden. The Israelites were going to need a place where God could walk and talk with his children. Also, they had a long journey ahead through the desert to the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey (an image of Eden), so their meeting-place with God had to be portable. Therefore, Moses went back up the mountain to get instructions for the tabernacle. The tabernacle would be a portable Eden, a place of communion and rest.” (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 38)

Scripture for Lectio:

“Every fifty years, the Day of Atonement also marked the beginning of the jubilee year. God commanded Moses on the day of atonement you shall send abroad the trumpet throughout all your land. And you shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants; it shall be a jubilee for you, when each of you shall return to his property and each of you shall return to his family.” (Leviticus 25: 9–10)

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Timestamps:

00:00 - Camp Wojtyla

01:32 - Intro

02:24 - Welcome

05:43 - Scripture Verse and Guiding Quote

07:11 - Finding Eden Today

10:18 - True Freedom

15:22 - Enslaved to the Little Things

17:28 - In Right Order

18:37 - Our Golden Caves

20:24 - The Bride that is Unfaithful

21:39 - What We Need for Freedom

23:34 - Doing Our Daily Duty Well

25:05 - Trusting in God’s Provision

28:19 - One Things

In this episode, we continue our Lenten book study and focus on chapters 1 & 2. We reflect on how God originally designed us in the Garden of Eden, how the lies and idols we invite into our lives strip away this identity, and how the Jubilee is a time of restoration. We also dive deep into the biblical significance of the ten plagues, why tearing down our idols is a painful process, and the beauty of hoping for a good not yet seen.

Heather’s One Thing - The Festival of Praise at Franciscan University and the song Fall Like Rain

Heather’s Other One Thing - Ascension’s Holy Bible – The Great Adventure Catholic Bible, Second Edition Premium

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Those who live in Lafayette and attended an event at the University of Louisiana 

Sister Miriam’s Other One Thing - Jean Valjean: Bought with a Price (a scene from the 1998 Les Miserables with Liam Neesen)

Michelle’s One Thing - Her recent trip with family to the Dominican Republic

Jesus and the Jubilee Reading Schedule:

• March 10th: Chapters 1 & 2
• March 17th: Chapters 3 & 4
• March 24th: Chapters 5 & 6
• March 31st: Chapters 7 & 8
• April 7th: Chapter 9 & Conclusion
• April 14th: Epilogue and Preparing for the Triduum and Easter

Announcement:

It’s not too late to order your copy of “Jesus and the Jubilee” at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. There are also bulk discounts available. 

Journal Questions:

• How can I embrace freedom, family, and fullness this Lent?
• What is the Lord inviting me to this Lent? What gift is He trying to give me?
• What does the Holy Spirit want to co-create with me this Lent?
• What idols do I sense the Lord destroying in my life?

Discussion Questions:

• How are you approaching a Jubilee Lent differently?
• What is taking up more room in your life than it needs to?
• How do you see Lent as a season of hardship versus a season of restoration?
• How can you press into prayer, fasting, and almsgiving to open yourself up to freedom this Lent?

Quotes to Ponder:

“The Story of the biblical jubilee does not begin with Leviticus 25, the first chapter where the institution is mentioned. The jubilee is at its heart an act of restoration, which means it recreates and reestablishes a situation that existed beforehand. And what is that situation? It’s the Good Creation!” (Jesus and the Jubilee, John Bergsma, Page 9)

Scripture for Lectio:

“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” (Genesis 1:31)

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Timestamps: 

00:00 - Into the Deep

01:34 - Intro

02:27  - Welcome

04:30 - Back to the Garden

08:38 - Our Need for Jubilee

10:22 - What is Taking Up Room in Our Hearts?

12:10 - Approaching Lent Differently

14:19 - Five Identities

16:10 - Restoring what was Lost

18:31 - A Glimpse into Full Restoration

20:41 - Self-Reliance vs Communion

22:38 - The Ten Plagues

24:26 - Spiritual Slavery

25:53 - God is Trying to Help You

27:30 - Continual Conversion

28:30 - Hope and Patience

31:35 - One Things

In this episode, we begin our Lenten book study “Jesus and the Jubilee” and welcome the author, Dr. John Bergsma, to the podcast! Dr. Bergsma shares his powerful conversion story during the Great Jubilee Year in 2000 and why he felt called to write a book about this Jubilee Year of Hope. We also reflect on this Jubilee year as a time of abundant grace, why Reconciliation is the Sacrament of Jubilee, and how we can engage the virtue of hope this Lenten season. 

Heather’s One Thing - Fathering Sons by Dominic Polito 

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Floriani (Chants of Deliverance CD) (Spotify)

Michelle’s One Thing - Jesus and the Jubilee

Dr. Bergsma’s One Thing - Dr. Scott Hahn’s meditations on “The Seven Last Words of Christ”. (Sign up to be sent a weekly video reflection during Lent)

Announcement:

It’s not too late to order your copy of “Jesus and the Jubilee” at the St. Paul Center with promo code “ABIDE15” for 15% off. There are also bulk discounts available. 

Journal Questions:

• How does the Lord want to invite me more deeply into the Jubilee Year?
• What am I seeking freedom from this Lent?
• How can I approach Lent with a spirit of hope?
• What do I need to repent of this Lent?

Discussion Questions:

• What is your current understanding of the Jubilee?
• How have you experienced interior miracles from the Lord?
• What stuck out to you from Dr. Bergsma’s statement: “The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a perpetual Jubilee”?
• What is a miracle you want to pray for this Lent?

Quote to Ponder:

“I’m convinced in my heart that the proper response to the announcement of Jubilee 2025 should be joy, hope, and excitement. Lived well, this Jubilee Year can be a moment of miracle and grace for all of us, a kind of yearlong spiritual Christmas season in which we daily awake to open the gifts of grace that God our Father so lovingly gives us.” (Dr. John Bergsma)

Scripture for Lectio:

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified. They shall build up the ancient ruins, they shall raise up the former devastations; they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.” (Isaiah 61:1-4)

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Timestamps: 

00:00 - CORDA

01:34 - Intro

02:26 - Welcome

04:55 - Dr. Bergsma’s Conversion Story

12:58 - The Jubilee Year of Hope is a Time of Grace

16:07 - St. Pope John Paul II

17:35 - The Inspiration to Write Jesus and the Jubilee

21:29 - Why the Jubilee Year is a Personal Experience

28:16 - Reconciliation is the Sacrament of Jubilee 

31:38 - Engaging the Virtue of Hope

37:38 - Hope in Prayer

40:12 - One Things