What strategies does the evil one use to get us to give in to our temptations? How do we combat this? This week in his homily, Bishop talks about the different ways we are tempted, and how to combat them.
How do we love as God loves us? This week in his homily, Bishop reminds us that it is only through God's grace we are able to love in such a profound way- despite being so human. This week Bishop gives us an assignment: to focus on the positive qualities we see in others, and take the time to acknowledge them.
Do you ever feel like when life gets difficult you're being stretched to the max? Whether the struggle is physical, mental, emotional, relational, spiritual or financial Bishop encourages us to persevere and trust in the Lord through the trials of life.
Do you feel too inadequate to serve God? Does the thought of telling others about your faith make you nervous? You're not alone! Isaiah, St. Paul and St. Peter all knew their inadequacies. This week in his homily, Bishop reminds us that God's grace is sufficient for us to do his will.
What is love? Do you know how to love well? This weekend in his homily, Bishop talked about two different ways we love. There's the childish love that is self-seeking and self-fulfilling, and there's God's love, also known as charity. Bishop also reminds us that we cannot love the way God does by our own merits, but only by God's grace. See St. Paul's description of love in 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 to understand how God loves us, and how we are called to love others in return.
This weekend Bishop talked about using our supernatural, and natural, gifts to build up the body of Christ. He reminded us of the importance of listening to the gifts God has given to us and the role that each of us plays, regardless of our age or ability.
This weekend Bishop talked about our inclinations to focus on our weaknesses rather than our gifts. He encouraged us to recognize how much God delights in us, and to give thanks for the gifts, both natural and supernatural, that he has given us.
On the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, Bishop DeGrood reflected on the stark contrasts between the magi, shepherds and King Herod. The magi and the shepherds found Jesus with humility and an open disposition to the truth of spiritual reality. On the other hand, King Herod was prideful and felt threatened by the thought of another king. He did not seek Jesus with humility, only power and authority. May we be like the magi and the shepherds, seeking Jesus with humility and an open disposition.
On this final Sunday of Advent, Bishop talked about the wills and passions of our hearts. He encouraged us to be like our Blessed Mother Mary and turn to God in our struggles and have faith that he will always provide.
Are you thirsting for more in this life? Are the things of this world not satisfying the longings of your heart? The Samaritan woman at the well longed for more, too. This past weekend in his homily, Bishop DeGrood reflected on Jesus' thirst and desire to save souls. Bishop also encouraged us to be intentional and take time to be in the presence of the Lord, and allow him to fill you with his love.On this Christ the King Sunday, Bishop talked about the power and strength of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. He encouraged us to allow Christ to be the King of our lives, and to not try to control things we can't control. We're reminded that freedom lies in acknowledging we have a King who loves…
