Episode 2955: Perseverance in Faith - Morning Episode

Nightly Zoom Coordinates for Rosary:
Meeting ID: 865 8978 0399
Passcode: Wjjv4960!
Speak Lord
Rosary
Book Recommendation of the Day
St. Maximilian Kolbe
Writings and letters on Marian devotion and evangelization.

If you wish to convert anyone to the fullness of the knowledge of our lord and his mystical body then teach them the rosary – AB Sheen
I have one last quote before we start this episode. You may know its author.
True faith reveals itself not in words, but in the quiet, unshakable joy that lingers even amidst life's trials. You know you possess it when sorrow does not consume you, but instead, every hardship is met with a heart that whispers, this too is joy. If we could glimpse even a fraction of the glory that awaits us, if we truly understood the depth of our Lord’s love, our souls would never cease to rejoice. This is faith not a mere profession of belief, but a life steeped in the certainty of divine love. – WV
Perseverance in Faith
We immerse ourselves in the wisdom of Holy Mother Church through the Scripture readings, the lives of the saints, and the spiritual themes the Church presents to us as we prepare for the holy season of Lent.
Epistle: James 1:12-18
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he hath been proved, he shall receive the crown of life, which God hath promised to them that love Him."
St. James exhorts us to remain steadfast in the face of trials, for they refine our souls and strengthen our virtue. This passage reminds us that temptations and struggles are not punishments, but opportunities for sanctification.
Gospel: Mark 8:34-38
"If any man will follow Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me."
Our Lord calls His disciples to a life of sacrifice, detachment, and unwavering fidelity. In a world that seeks comfort and self-indulgence, Christ's words stand as a challenge: Are we willing to lose everything for the sake of gaining eternal life?
Traditional & Historical Saints Commemorated on February 20
• St. Eucherius of Orleans (Bishop, Confessor – 743): A holy bishop known for his deep faith and resistance against corruption, he suffered exile for defending truth. His life reminds us of the cost of standing for righteousness.
• St. Eleutherius (Bishop, Martyr – 2nd Century): An early bishop of Byzantium, martyred for his unshakable confession of Christ. His witness encourages us to endure all things for the sake of our eternal reward.
________________________________________
Theme & Reflection of the Day
Today’s Gospel presents the theme of carrying one’s cross and detachment from worldly gain. The saints of today, St. Eucherius and St. Eleutherius, lived this Gospel fully one through exile for the truth, the other through martyrdom for Christ.

Self-examination:
• Do I resist carrying my daily cross, preferring comfort over sacrifice?
• Am I willing to stand for Christ even when it means losing friends, status, or security?
In our modern world, where faith is often compromised for convenience, today's readings call us to choose Christ over all else.
Quote of the Day
"Let us abandon ourselves completely to divine Providence, and let us be always ready to sacrifice everything for God." – St. Eucherius of Orleans
This wisdom calls us to surrender our will and trust in God's perfect plan, even when we face trials.
Concluding Prayer
O Lord, grant us the courage to take up our cross daily and follow You. Strengthen us in trials, as You strengthened St. Eucherius and St. Eleutherius in their sufferings. Let our hearts not be attached to the fleeting comforts of this world, but fixed on the eternal reward You promise to those who love You.
Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, guide us on the path of holiness and perseverance.
We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Closing:
Thank you for joining today’s reflection. May Our Lord bless you abundantly, and may Our Lady keep you under her mantle. Until tomorrow, stay steadfast in faith!