Day 7: The Call of the Disciples – “Leaving Everything to Follow Him” – Discerning Hearts Podcast


A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 7: The Call of the Disciples – “Leaving Everything to Follow Him”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Luke 5:1-11
“Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on Him to hear the word of God, He saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then He sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if You say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!’ For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.’ When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed Him.”

Reflection:

The call of Simon Peter, James, and John is a moment of profound transformation. These ordinary fishermen encounter the extraordinary power of Jesus, and in an instant, their lives are forever changed. In the midst of their daily work—tired and likely discouraged after a fruitless night of fishing—they meet the Lord, who enters their lives with an invitation that will demand everything.

Simon Peter’s initial response is one of hesitation: “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if You say so, I will let down the nets.” His words reflect the struggle many of us feel when faced with God’s call. We see our own limitations, our failures, and our doubts, but Peter takes a step of faith. That simple act of obedience—trusting Jesus’ word—leads to an abundance beyond anything Peter could have imagined.

When the nets are miraculously filled, Peter falls to his knees, overwhelmed by the presence of holiness: “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” In this moment, Peter is confronted with his own unworthiness, yet Jesus does not turn away. Instead, He calls Peter deeper: “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” This is the heart of discipleship—not that we are worthy, but that Christ’s grace transforms us and makes us capable of answering His call.

St. John Paul II spoke often of the courage required to follow Christ’s call: “Duc in altum! Put out into the deep! Do not be afraid to take risks for Christ. If He calls you, He will sustain you. Step forward with faith, and He will provide.”(Novo Millennio Ineunte, 2001)

This call to discipleship is not just for the apostles—it is for each of us. Jesus meets us in the ordinary moments of our lives, asking us to trust Him and to leave behind anything that holds us back. What are the “nets” in your life that you need to leave behind? Perhaps it is fear, pride, or attachment to comfort. Jesus invites us to lay these down and to follow Him wholeheartedly.

The call of the disciples also reminds us that we are not called alone. Simon Peter, James, and John leave their boats together, stepping into a community of faith. Who are the people God has placed in your life to walk this journey with you? How can you support one another as you seek to follow Christ?

The Desert Fathers often reflected on the call to leave everything for Christ. Abba Agathon once said: “If someone desires God, he must be ready to let go of everything else. A heart divided cannot fully belong to Him.”(Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Agathon 1) His words remind us that following Jesus requires a full surrender, not holding onto distractions or fears that prevent us from giving ourselves completely to Him.

Take a moment to reflect on Jesus’ words: “Do not be afraid.” Where is He calling you to trust Him more deeply? What risks is He inviting you to take for the sake of His kingdom? Ask for the courage to respond with the same faith and boldness as the disciples.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What “nets” are you holding onto that might be preventing you from fully following Jesus?
  2. How can you trust Jesus more deeply in the ordinary moments of your life?
  3. Who are the people in your life that God has called to journey with you in faith, and how can you support one another?

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You called the disciples to leave everything and follow You. Help us to hear Your call in our own lives. Give us the courage to trust You, even when the path is uncertain. Teach us to let go of anything that holds us back and to follow You with our whole hearts. May we never be afraid to step out in faith, knowing that You are always with us. Amen.


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

Day 6: The Transfiguration – “Beholding the Glory of Christ” – Discerning Hearts Podcast


A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 6: The Transfiguration – “Beholding the Glory of Christ”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Matthew 17:1-9
“Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with Him. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ While He was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is My Son, the Beloved; with Him I am well pleased; listen to Him!’ When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, ‘Get up and do not be afraid.’ And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.”

Reflection:

Today, we are invited to climb the mountain with Jesus and His closest disciples. This moment of Transfiguration is not just a glimpse of Christ’s divine glory, but a revelation meant to strengthen the disciples for the trials that lie ahead. In this dazzling display of light and majesty, they encounter the fullness of who Jesus is: both fully human and fully divine.

The Transfiguration is a reminder for us that in our journey of faith, God gives us moments of clarity, moments where His presence and glory shine through the veil of this world. These moments are gifts, not only to comfort us but to prepare us. Peter, James, and John will soon witness the agony of Gethsemane and the suffering of the cross. But here, on the mountain, they are reminded that the cross is not the end. The glory of Christ points forward to the resurrection and the hope of eternal life.

Notice Peter’s reaction: “Lord, it is good for us to be here.” How often do we long to remain in the comfort of these “mountaintop” experiences, forgetting that our mission lies back in the valleys of daily life? The voice of the Father breaks through Peter’s words, calling him—and us—not to remain still, but to listen: “This is My Son, the Beloved; listen to Him!” Discipleship is not about staying in comfort; it is about listening to Christ and following Him, even when the path leads through suffering.

St. Augustine reflects: “In His Transfiguration, Christ showed His disciples the splendor of His truth, that they might be strengthened for the scandal of the cross.” This is the paradox of our faith: the glory of God is revealed in both the brilliance of the mountaintop and the humility of the cross. The Transfiguration invites us to hold these two realities together, trusting that the light of Christ will guide us through the darkest valleys.

The Desert Fathers also reflected on the necessity of climbing the spiritual mountain in prayer. Abba Evagrius Ponticus taught: “If you desire to see the face of Christ, let your soul ascend the mountain of prayer and contemplation.” (Praktikos 67) His words remind us that the journey to God’s presence is not always easy. It requires effort, perseverance, and an openness to being transformed by the experience of His glory. But the reward is great: a deeper union with Christ, a heart strengthened for the trials of life, and a faith that is no longer shaken by suffering.

Take a moment now to reflect on the “mountaintop” moments in your own life. When have you experienced the glory of God in a way that filled your heart with joy and wonder? How have those moments strengthened your faith for the challenges that followed? Spend time in prayer asking Jesus to help you carry the memory of His glory into the struggles of daily life, trusting that He is with you in both the light and the darkness.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How can you hold on to the glory of Christ in moments of difficulty or doubt?
  2. What does it mean for you to “listen to Him” in the midst of life’s challenges?
  3. How does the Transfiguration prepare you to trust in God’s plan, even when the path is unclear?

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You revealed Your glory on the mountain to strengthen Your disciples for the road ahead. Help us to hold onto the light of Your presence in moments of darkness and to trust in Your love when the path is hard. Teach us to listen to You and to follow wherever You lead, knowing that Your glory is always with us. Amen.


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

Day 5: Into the Wilderness – “Temptation and Proclamation” – Discerning Hearts Podcast


A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 5: Into the Wilderness – “Temptation and Proclamation”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Mark 1:12-15
“The Spirit drove Jesus out into the wilderness and He remained there for forty days, and was tempted by Satan. He was with the wild beasts, and the angels looked after Him. After John had been arrested, Jesus went into Galilee. There He proclaimed the Good News from God. ‘The time has come,’ He said, ‘and the kingdom of God is close at hand. Repent, and believe the Good News.’”

Reflection:

Today, we follow Jesus into the wilderness—a place of solitude, trial, and preparation. The Spirit drives Him there, not as a punishment, but as a necessary step in His mission. In the wilderness, Jesus confronts temptation directly, with Satan himself attempting to divert Him from His path. Yet, even in this desolate place, Jesus is not alone. Angels minister to Him, and God’s presence sustains Him.

The wilderness is a powerful image for our spiritual lives. It represents those times when we feel stripped of comfort, faced with our weaknesses, and confronted by the enemy. Yet, as we see in Jesus, the wilderness is also a place of profound encounter with God. In the silence and the struggle, we are invited to rely not on our own strength, but on His.

Jesus’ victory over temptation in the wilderness reveals that God is always greater than the trials we face. Each time Satan tempts Him, Jesus responds with the truth of God’s Word. This is a reminder for us: when we feel spiritually attacked or overwhelmed by temptation, we are not powerless. We have the Word of God, the sacraments, and the presence of Christ to sustain us.

Consider how Jesus begins His public ministry immediately after leaving the wilderness. Having faced the trials, He is prepared to proclaim the Good News: “The time has come, and the kingdom of God is close at hand. Repent, and believe the Good News.” His call is not only to turn away from sin but to turn toward something infinitely greater—God’s kingdom and the life of grace.

As we reflect on this passage, let us also examine the wilderness moments in our own lives. Where do we feel tempted to give up, to doubt, or to turn away from God? How can these moments become opportunities for deeper trust and reliance on Him? The wilderness is not meant to destroy us; it is meant to prepare us for mission, to sharpen our awareness of God’s presence, and to strengthen us for the journey ahead.

St. John Chrysostom teaches: “Do not fear the wilderness, for it is there that God speaks most clearly to the heart.”In the silence and struggle, we are refined, and like Jesus, we emerge ready to proclaim His love to the world.

The Desert Fathers often spoke of the importance of perseverance in trials. Abba Macarius once said: “If you wish to be saved, do not go out of your cell, but sit there and the cell will teach you everything.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Macarius 24) His wisdom reminds us that just as Jesus stayed in the wilderness to face temptation, we too must not run from our spiritual battles. Instead, we must remain rooted in prayer, allowing God to form us in patience, endurance, and trust.

Take a moment now to sit quietly and imagine yourself in the wilderness with Jesus. What temptations are you facing? What fears or struggles do you need to surrender to God? Ask for His strength to persevere, for His grace to resist the enemy, and for His love to fill every corner of your heart. The wilderness may feel desolate, but it is also holy ground, where God meets us and transforms us.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What are the “wilderness” moments in your life right now, and how is God inviting you to trust Him in them?
  2. How can you draw strength from Jesus’ example of resisting temptation through God’s Word?
  3. What does it mean for you to repent and believe the Good News in a deeper way during this Lenten journey?

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You entered the wilderness and faced temptation, yet You remained faithful to the Father. Help us to follow Your example in our own struggles. When we feel weak, remind us of Your strength. When we feel alone, remind us of Your presence. Lead us through the wilderness of our lives and prepare our hearts to proclaim Your kingdom with courage and joy. Amen.


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

Day 4: “Follow Me” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 4: “Follow Me

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Luke 5:27-32
“When Jesus went out, He noticed a tax collector called Levi sitting by the customs house, and He said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And leaving everything, he got up and followed Him. In his house, Levi held a great reception for Jesus, and with them at table was a large gathering of tax collectors and others. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to His disciples and said, ‘Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?’ Jesus answered them, ‘It is not those who are well who need the doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the virtuous, but sinners to repentance.’”

Reflection:

Today, Jesus speaks those simple yet life-changing words to Levi: “Follow me.” And with no hesitation, Levi leaves everything behind—his job, his income, his old life—and follows Jesus.

This moment is at the heart of Lent. Every day, Jesus speaks these same words to us: “Follow me.” And like Levi, we are invited to let go of what holds us back—our attachments, fears, and sins—and trust in the new life Jesus offers.

But surrendering is not easy. To leave behind the familiar requires trust, courage, and faith. It is human to hesitate, to wonder what might be lost. Yet, Jesus does not ask for perfection; He asks for willingness. He meets us where we are, in the ordinary moments of life, and calls us into something greater than ourselves.

Self-examination can be difficult and sometimes painful. Often, we avoid looking at the darker corners of our lives out of shame, disappointment with ourselves, or even fear. Yet, the gentle Jesus does not leave us alone. It is He who calls us, He who will guide us. Allowing time and space to listen in silence to what He lovingly reveals to us is the first step in following Him. His voice does not shame or accuse; rather, it reveals and invites. He does not condemn but encourages us to let go, to trust, and to be healed in love.

One practical daily practice to help us grow in awareness of God’s presence and discern His call more deeply is the Examen Prayer, as offered by St. Ignatius of Loyola. This prayer helps us to reflect on our day with gratitude, recognize where God was present, and identify where He is leading us to deeper conversion. The Examen is a powerful tool for cultivating a listening heart, learning from our experiences, and growing in trust. A guide for the Examen can be found on DiscerningHearts.com or in the free Discerning Hearts app.

The prophet Isaiah assures us that God will guide us through the challenges of this surrender. When we let go of the burdens we carry, Isaiah promises: “Your light will rise in the darkness, and your shadows become like noon.” (Isaiah 58:10) God strengthens us when we entrust ourselves to Him fully.

The Desert Fathers deeply understood the struggle of surrendering to God. Abba Theodore of Pherme taught:

“Let us strive to enter through the narrow gate. Just as trees cannot bear fruit if they have not stood against the wind, so too does the one who struggles bear the fruit of the Spirit.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Theodore of Pherme 5)

Saying yes to Jesus is the narrow way. It involves struggle and sacrifice, but it also leads to freedom, healing, and joy. Jesus does not call us because we are perfect or ready—He calls us because He longs to transform us.

St. Francis de Sales, a master of the spiritual life, encourages us in this journey of trust. He writes:

“Do not fear what might happen tomorrow. The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.” (Letters to a Devout Life)

Take a moment to imagine yourself in Levi’s place, sitting at your work, at your daily tasks, when suddenly Jesus walks by and speaks directly to you: “Follow me.” What do you feel? Do you hesitate? Do you rise immediately? Ask for the grace to trust His voice, to leave behind what no longer leads you to Him, and to embrace the joy of walking in His footsteps.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What attachments or habits make it difficult for us to hear and respond to Jesus’ call to“Follow me”?
  2. How can we trust that surrendering to Christ will bring greater freedom and joy?
  3. What practical steps can we take today to respond to Jesus’ invitation to follow Him?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, You call us each day with those simple yet powerful words: “Follow me.” Give us the courage to leave behind whatever holds us back—our attachments, fears, and distractions—and to trust fully in You. Strengthen us as we walk the narrow path, and fill our hearts with the light of Your presence. May we, like Levi, respond with joy and trust, knowing that You walk beside us every step of the way. Amen.


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

Day 3: “The Fast That God Desires” – Discerning Hearts Podcast


A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 3: “The Fast That God Desires” – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):

Isaiah 58:6-9
“Is not this the sort of fast that pleases me—it is the Lord who speaks—to break unjust fetters and undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke, to share your bread with the hungry, and shelter the homeless poor, to clothe the man you see to be naked and not turn from your own kin? Then will your light shine like the dawn, and your wound be quickly healed over. Saving justice will go before you, and the Lord’s glory behind you. Then you will cry, and the Lord will answer; you will call, and he will say, ‘I am here.’”

Reflection:

Today, through the prophet Isaiah, God speaks to us about the true meaning of fasting. Too often, we focus on what we are giving up—a favorite food, an indulgence, or a habit. But Isaiah reveals that true fasting is about freedom—freedom from the chains that bind us, and freedom to love and serve others more fully.

St. John Cassian, in his teachings on the spiritual life, writes:
“Fasting restrains gluttony, the root of all vices, and cuts off the fuel that feeds the activity of the evil one.”(Conferences, Book 5, Chapter 6)

For Cassian, fasting is not just about discipline for the body but a weapon for the soul. It weakens the power of sin and creates space for God’s grace to work in us. True fasting is about more than denial; it is about transformation. It purifies our hearts, helping us to focus on God and respond to the needs of others.

The Desert Fathers echo this wisdom. Abba John said:
“If a man shuts his mouth but harbors resentment in his heart, he is fasting only outwardly.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, John 5)

Fasting is not just about abstaining from food—it is about letting go of pride, selfishness, and judgment so that God’s light can shine through us. Isaiah promises that when we fast in this way, “Then will your light shine like the dawn, and your wound be quickly healed over.”Fasting brings freedom and healing, not just for ourselves but for those around us.

The great St. Augustine, in his Sermon on the Lord’s Prayer, reminds us that fasting must always be paired with charity:
“Do you wish your prayer to fly toward God? Give it two wings: fasting and almsgiving.” (Sermon 206)

When we fast, it should lead us to greater generosity—sharing our bread with the hungry, clothing the naked, and sheltering the homeless. It should open our eyes to the needs of others and our hearts to love.

Reflection Questions:

Take a moment to sit with these questions and let them guide your prayer today:

  1. What attachments or habits weigh us down and prevent us from living freely in God’s love?
  2. How is God calling us to a deeper, interior fast that transforms our hearts?
  3. How can our fasting bring healing and light to others in our lives?

Closing Prayer:

Let us now bring our time of reflection to God in prayer, asking for His grace to help us live out the fast that He desires.

Lord, You have shown us the fast that pleases You: to break chains, to love generously, and to walk humbly with You. Help us to fast not only with our bodies but with our hearts. Free us from the attachments that weigh us down, and open our eyes to the needs of others. May our fasting this Lent be a source of healing, renewal, and light—for ourselves and for the world.
Amen.


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

Day 2: The Call to Conversion – “Turning Toward the Light” – Discerning Hearts Podcast


A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 2: The Call to Conversion – “Turning Toward the Light”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):
Matthew 4:17
“From that time Jesus began to proclaim, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.'”

Reflection:

Today’s scripture reminds us of Jesus’ central message as He begins His public ministry: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Repentance is not just about feeling sorry for our sins. It is about turning—turning away from darkness and sin and toward the light of God’s grace. It is a reorientation of our hearts, minds, and lives toward God.

This turning can feel daunting. We may be hesitant to confront our weaknesses, our failures, and the ways we have strayed from God. Yet, Jesus’ call to repentance is not harsh or condemning. It is an invitation to healing and renewal. The kingdom of heaven is near because Jesus Himself has drawn near. He does not call us to change on our own but to open our hearts to His transforming love.

The Desert Fathers often spoke of repentance as a daily turning of the heart. Abba Poemen said: “Do not give your heart to that which does not satisfy the heart.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Poemen 15) His words challenge us to examine our lives honestly. What are the things we cling to that cannot satisfy the deeper longing of our hearts? What are the distractions or attachments that keep us from fully turning to God?

St. John Chrysostom, reflecting on repentance, said: “Be ashamed when you sin, not when you repent. Repentance is medicine, sin is the wound.” This image of repentance as medicine invites us to see it not as a burden but as a gift. It is the means by which God heals the wounds of our sin and restores us to wholeness.

St. Teresa of Ávila reminds us that this turning toward God must also come from a place of humility: “Do not let us deceive ourselves into thinking that because we confess our sins, we have repented. True repentance is shown in the amendment of life, in surrendering our will to God’s will.” Lent is an opportunity to not only ask for forgiveness but to commit to a renewed way of living in alignment with God’s grace.

As we reflect on Jesus’ call to repentance, let us take a moment to examine our own lives.

Repentance is not a one-time event. It is a daily practice, a continual turning of the heart toward God. Each day of Lent is an opportunity to take another step on this journey of conversion, trusting that God’s grace will meet us every step of the way.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What are the areas in your life where God is calling you to repentance and renewal?
  2. How can you let go of distractions or attachments that do not satisfy your heart?
  3. What practical steps can you take today to turn more fully toward God?

Closing Prayer:

Let us conclude with a prayer of repentance and trust in God’s mercy:

Lord Jesus, You call us to repent and turn toward the light of Your kingdom. Help us to recognize the ways we have strayed from You and to trust in Your mercy. Heal the wounds of our sin and renew our hearts by Your grace. May this day be a step closer to You, as we open ourselves to Your transforming love. Strengthen us to let go of what does not satisfy and to turn wholeheartedly to You.
Amen.


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

Day 1: Ash Wednesday – “Return to Me with Your Whole Heart” – Discerning Hearts Podcast


A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Day 1: Ash Wednesday – “Return to Me with Your Whole Heart”

Scripture Reading (Jerusalem Bible):
Joel 2:12-13
“But now—it is the Lord who speaks—come back to me with all your heart, fasting, weeping, mourning. Let your hearts be broken, not your garments torn, turn to the Lord your God again, for he is all tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in graciousness, and ready to relent.”

Reflection:

As we begin this Lenten journey, we hear the words of the prophet Joel: “Come back to me with all your heart.” It’s a call to step away from the noise and distractions of life and return to God with our whole being. Lent invites us to reflect, to fast, and to pray so that our hearts may be renewed by grace.

This return is not easy. Our lives are busy. Responsibilities press upon us. Distractions draw our attention away from the still, small voice of God. The world urges us to strive and achieve, but God simply asks: “Come back to me.” He does not demand perfection but longs for our hearts—even in their brokenness.

The prophet Joel’s words echo this tenderness: “Let your hearts be broken, not your garments torn.” External acts of repentance are not enough; God desires an interior transformation, one that reaches the depths of who we are. To return to God means to acknowledge our need for Him, to trust in His mercy, and to allow Him to heal what is wounded within us.

The Desert Fathers understood this deep need for silence and prayer. Abba Arsenius, who left a life of luxury to seek God in solitude, prayed:

“Lord, teach me to be silent, that I may discern Your will. In silence, the soul finds rest, and the heart is purified. Words often scatter, but silence gathers the heart in prayer, lifting it to You.” (Apophthegmata Patrum, Alphabetical Collection, Arsenius 5)

This silence is not a void; it is a space where God’s voice can echo in our hearts. It is a silence that allows us to recognize His presence in the midst of our struggles.

Similarly, St. Augustine speaks to the restlessness we feel when we stray from God:

“You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” (Confessions, Book 1, Chapter 1)

Augustine reminds us that our longing for peace, fulfillment, and meaning is ultimately a longing for God. Lent is an opportunity to bring this restlessness to Him, to find our true rest in His love and grace.

As you receive the ashes today, let them remind you of this invitation: to turn back to God with all your heart. Let them speak of His tenderness and compassion. And let them be a sign of hope, for even in our brokenness, God is ready to renew and restore us.

Take this moment to consider the journey ahead. Lent is not about achieving perfection; it is about opening your heart, one step at a time, to the transforming power of God’s grace. Trust in His invitation to come back to Him, and let this journey be one of deep renewal.

Reflection Questions:

Take a moment to reflect on these questions and allow them to guide your prayer today:

  1. What distractions keep us from returning to God with our whole hearts?
  2. How can silence and prayer help us hear God’s invitation more clearly?
  3. What small steps can we take today to draw closer to God during this Lenten season?

Closing Prayer:

Let us now bring our time of reflection to God in prayer, asking for the grace to return to Him fully:

Lord, You call us to come back to You with all our hearts. Yet we confess that life often feels too busy and overwhelming. Teach us to seek silence and prayer so that we may hear Your voice. Break our hearts in love and transform them by Your grace. May this Lent be a journey of renewal and deeper communion with You. Amen


This reflection is written by Kris McGregor of Discerning Hearts®. The Scripture passage is taken from the Jerusalem Bible (1966 edition), used with permission. No unauthorized use or reproduction is permitted without prior written consent.

 

IP#507 Sr. Josephine Garrett – Wilderness Within on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast


Wilderness Within by Sr. Josephine Garrett on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

Sister Josephine Garrett and Kris McGregor discuss Wilderness Within, a Lenten journal designed to guide individuals in deepening their spiritual journey. Sister Josephine explains that the book is not for the faint of heart but for those willing to reflect on their implicit beliefs about God, faith, and themselves. The book explores the theme of the “wilderness within,” likening it to the Desert Fathers’ realization that the greatest spiritual battle is fought in the human heart and the importance of rendering one’s heart open to Christ, engaging in interior reflection, and embracing the challenges of Lent not as failures but as necessary struggles on the path to spiritual growth.

The need for authentic hope amid personal and societal struggles is important during the Jubilee of Hope. Fasting, penance, and detachment each share a role in gaining clarity and deepening union with God rather than simply self-denial. She encourages listeners to avoid rushing through Lent, instead embracing the rhythm of the liturgical season as a model for ongoing spiritual discipline.


Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. How does the concept of the “wilderness within” resonate with your own spiritual struggles and growth?
  2. In what ways do you see God’s love sustaining you, even in times of doubt or hardship?
  3. What are the “stories” you tell yourself about your relationship with God, and how do they shape your faith?
  4. How can you practice rendering your heart more fully open to God during Lent?
  5. What attachments or distractions in your life may be keeping you from fully trusting in God’s plan?
  6. How do you respond to suffering and the cross in your own life—do you resist it or see it as a path to deeper union with Christ?
  7. How can fasting, prayer, and almsgiving help you detach from worldly concerns and focus more on God?
  8. In what ways does the Jubilee of Hope challenge you to rediscover hope in your personal faith journey?
  9. How does reflecting on Christ’s suffering during Holy Week draw you closer to His heart?
  10. What steps can you take after Lent to ensure that your spiritual growth continues beyond the season?

From the book’s description:

This Lent, allow Sr. Josephine Garrett to be your guide as you explore the interior wilderness of your heart and invite Jesus in to heal you with his love.

Have you ever wondered why Jesus went into the wilderness? Some believe it was to reveal his divinity or to restore humanity’s relationship with God. In Wilderness Within, Sr. Josephine Garrett, a mental health counselor and popular speaker, reflects on the belief that Jesus went into the wilderness to rescue us—to rescue us! The Lord does not want us to view the wilderness as something that causes worry, anxiety, or fear. “What if, instead,” Sr. Josephine writes, “we looked at how God has been a faithful provider in the wilderness and trusted that He will do the same for us in the wilderness journey ahead? What if we joyfully take His hand and journey into the wilderness, because when Christ enters there, ‘this opposite place of the garden becomes the place of reconciliation and healing’” (Pope Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth)?

In Wilderness Within, Sr. Josephine will guide you through the forty days of Lent to attend to the wilderness of your heart as a place to be explored, restored, and sent on mission by Jesus’s tender love.

  • Week of Ash Wednesday: Enter Lent by recognizing your ability to always begin anew in Christ.
  • Week One: Open your heart to God’s love, allowing yourself to reverence your heart as a gift from your Creator.
  • Week Two: Reflect on the truth that we are created for relationships, and examine the relationships in your life.
  • Week Three: Take an honest look at your limitations, wounds, and sin guided by a spirit of humility and repentance.
  • Week Four: Begin to see how God designed your heart to be rescued by him and grow in your capacity to be healed by him.
  • Week Five: Leave the wilderness of your heart so that you can go on mission—with a heart restored by Christ’s love—to love your neighbor and be a good steward of the gifts and charisms given to you.
  • Holy Week: Follow in Jesus’s footsteps to the Cross and discover how you can love him well through each stage of the Passion and Resurrection.

Each day’s content includes brief meditations, specially crafted illustrations, thought-provoking reflection questions, heartfelt prayers curated to uplift your spirit, and ample journaling space for personal revelations and insights. Whether you’re journeying alone or with a group, Wilderness Within is your guide to a beautiful and renewing Lent.


About the Author

Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN, is a sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, a licensed counselor, host of the Hope Stories podcast, and a Catholic speaker and author.

Garrett earned a bachelor’s degree in political philosophy from the University of Dallas. Prior to entering religious life, she worked as vice president in the home loans division of Bank of America. In 2019, she earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and became a nationally certified counselor licensed in Texas.

She worked as a school counselor in Tyler, Texas, and is presently serving as a counselor in private practice. Garret is a voice for mental health on various platforms such as Formed and Hallow.

She resides in Tyler, Texas.

IP#494 Fr. Thomas Morrow – Straight to Heaven on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Fr. Thomas Morrow on “Straight to Heaven: A Practical Guide for Growing in Holiness”

Kris McGregor talks with Fr. Thomas Morrow about his book Straight to Heaven: A Practical Guide for Growing in Holiness. Fr. Morrow explains the significance of understanding heaven, hell, and purgatory as motivators for spiritual growth. Heaven is a deep union with God, similar to a divine marriage. While God’s mercy is abundant, rejecting Him leads to hell, which Christ frequently spoke about in Scripture; and purgatory as a place of purification for those who die in God’s grace but still need to atone for sins.

Fr. Morrow presents prayer as the foundation of holiness and encourages believers to develop a daily habit of conversation with God. He recommends the Rosary for its meditative power and speaks about the importance of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, as essential sources of grace.


Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. The Reality of Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory: How does understanding the Church’s teaching on heaven, hell, and purgatory shape the way you live your daily life and make moral choices?
  2. The Joy of Union with God: In what ways can you deepen your desire for heaven by growing in your relationship with God through prayer and the sacraments?
  3. The Role of Suffering in Holiness: How can you embrace suffering as a means of uniting yourself with Christ and growing in holiness rather than avoiding or resenting it?
  4. The Power of Daily Prayer: What steps can you take to develop a consistent and meaningful prayer life that brings you closer to God?
  5. The Call to Love God and Neighbor: How can you practice the two greatest commandments more intentionally, especially in difficult relationships or challenging situations?
  6. The Importance of the Sacraments: What role do the Eucharist and Reconciliation play in your spiritual life, and how can you make them a greater priority?
  7. The Challenge of Living a Virtuous Life: Which virtues do you struggle with the most, and how can you work on strengthening them through prayer and action?
  8. The Commitment to Spiritual Growth: What practical changes can you make in your daily routine to foster a deeper relationship with God and grow in holiness?

You can find the book here.

From the book description:

“If you’re hoping to get to Heaven, you’ll need a plan to reach your goal. This handy manual not only presents all the elements of a life well lived; it also helps you incorporate those elements into everyday practice. Straight to Heaven is the one guide you need to achieve holiness now and Heaven later – all while eluding the traps and pains of Hell.

Fr. Morrow explains that happiness is attainable now for those who live the gospel because they are bringing a bit of Heaven to earth. Conversely, those who fail to live the gospel are doomed to live a hellish life in this world and in the next.

That’s why Fr. Morrow wrote this book – to help you put in place a practical plan to enable you to love God with your whole heart, mind, and soul. Fr. Morrow shows you how to discern and follow God’s will and improve your ability to extend mercy to others.

Through engaging stories of individuals who lived heroically in difficult circumstances, you will discover ways to overcome vice and grow in the fruits of the Holy Spirit so you can become the saint God calls you to be. Most importantly, you will learn to keep your eyes fixed on the heavenly Wedding Feast and your eternal reward. You will also learn:

  • The difference between meditation and contemplation
  • How to grow in authentic sorrow for sin
  • The three methods of prayer – and when to use each
  • The most effective aid to staying on the path to holiness
  • How to overcome difficulties in prayer
  • Three ways to display your love to God”

About the Author: ​Fr. Thomas G. Morrow graduated from St. Charles Seminary in Philadelphia and was ordained in 1982 for the Archdiocese of Washington (DC). He has an STL in Moral Theology from the Dominican House of Studies and received his Doctorate in Sacred Theology (STD) from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in 1999. He was host for three years (1989-1992) of Catholic Faith Alive!, a radio program on WNTR in Washington, in which he explained the Catholic faith. Fr. Morrow has appeared as a guest on Mother Angelica Live and The Abundant Life programs on Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). He has written booklets on the rosary, the Stations of the Cross, and on heaven, hell and purgatory.

IP#323 John Galten – The Spiritual Direction of St. Claude De La Colombiere on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor – Discerning Hearts Podcast

John Galten – The Spiritual Direction of St. Claude De La Colombiere on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

John Galten and Kris McGregor discuss The Spiritual Direction of St. Claude de la Colombière and St. Claude’s crucial role in the Sacred Heart devotion, through his spiritual guidance of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. Galten recounts his personal journey to discovering St. Claude and highlights how the saint’s balanced, kind, and firm approach helped St. Margaret Mary persevere amidst resistance. St. Claude’s promotion of the Sacred Heart devotion, particularly through his Jesuit connections, significantly contributed to its global spread. His teachings on trust in God’s providence and the interior life resonate today, offering timeless guidance for deepening one’s spiritual journey.

St. Claude’s prudence, humility, and love for the Eucharist, portrays him as an essential guide for those seeking holiness in a distracted world. Galten draws parallels between the Sacred Heart and Divine Mercy devotions, underscoring their shared message of trust in Christ’s love; in addition to the importance of prayer, the sacraments, and spiritual masters like St. Claude in fostering an interior life, especially in light of St. John Paul II’s call for a new evangelization.


Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

  1. Importance of Spiritual Direction: Reflect on how the guidance of a spiritual director, like St. Claude de la Colombière, can provide clarity and strength in times of spiritual struggle.
  2. Trust in God’s Providence: Consider ways in which you can deepen your trust in God’s plan, especially when facing challenges or uncertainty.
  3. Role of Devotion in Spiritual Growth: Examine the role that devotions, such as the Sacred Heart, play in nurturing your relationship with Christ and sustaining your interior life.
  4. Balance in Spiritual Practice: Reflect on how you can maintain a balanced spiritual life that embraces both zeal and prudence, avoiding extremes in your faith journey.
  5. Significance of the Eucharist: Ponder the centrality of the Eucharist in your daily life and how participation in the Mass strengthens your connection to Christ.
  6. Call to Universal Holiness: Consider how you can respond to the Church’s call to holiness by fostering an interior life rooted in prayer, sacraments, and love for God.
  7. Joy in Evangelization: Reflect on the importance of joy in living and sharing your faith, and identify ways to cultivate this joy through a deeper relationship with Christ and Our Lady.

To obtain a copy of the book visit here

About the Book

“St. Claude, canonized by Pope John Paul II, ranks among the masters of the spiritual life as a director of souls. He gave direction to countless souls, including to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the great visionary of the Sacred Heart revelations. Jesus told St. Margaret Mary, “Father Claude is my perfect friend and servant. His gift is to lead souls to God.”

St. Claude preached missions and retreats on the Sacred Heart. He was also a clever psychologist who easily read the hearts of other. His sure judgment, aided by grace, enabled him to understand the difficulties of each soul and give the advice most needed for each person. Readers of this spiritual gem will find his insights full of wisdom and inspiration.

His writings cover such important areas of the spiritual life as: Confession, Mass and Holy Communion, Confidence in God, Perfection & Holiness, Peace of Soul, Charity, Education of Children, Spiritual Joy, Prayer, Zeal, and much more.”