Living the virtue of simplicity is only possible through ongoing conversion of our hearts and our lives. Sometimes, conversion happens quickly, but most of the time it is a slow, ongoing process that continues our entire life. As a matter of fact, each moment of our lives is a gift freely given to us by God. It is the hope that we might choose to grow in relationship with Him, one gradual improvement, one small change at a time. Conversion is a radical reorientation of our whole life, a return, a conversion to God with all our heart, an end of sin, a turning away from evil, with repugnance toward the evil actions we have committed. At the same time it entails the desire and resolution to change one's life, with hope in God's mercy and trust in the help of his grace. ~CCC:1431 Our faith gives us all the tools we need to succeed in this lifelong transformation. First, we have our Baptismal promises and the graces we received from the washing away of original sin. It is made public that we are God's beloved son or daughter, with precious dignity and unrepeatable gifts. Second, the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist are the ongoing, tangible efforts we make to move forward in personal growth and holiness. We come to recognize who we are in Christ, including our faults, and realize we go nowhere without Him. Receiving forgiveness, participating in penance, and partaking of the Eucharist propel us forward to live authentically with confidence in our calling. Finally, we have Christ Himself and His Word to inspire and encourage us on this journey. "I am with you always, until the end of the age." Matthew 28:20 The seven sacraments touch all the stages and all the important moments of Christian life: they give birth and increase, healing and mission to the Christian's life of faith. ~CCC:1210
spiritual Making good use of the sacrament of confession is necessary for conversion of life which leads to simplicity. Through this powerful sacrament, God's mercy brings about our transformation and sanctification, as He give us the graces we need to grow in holiness and overcome our daily struggles. In the single act of confession, you will exercise more virtues than in any other act whatsoever. ~St. Francis de Sales Click the link to prepare your heart for Reconciliation this weekend St. Benedict's way. This examen is based on the HOLY RULE of St. Benedict: St. Benedict Examination of Conscience My eyes are ever towards the Lord: for he shall pluck my feet out of the snare. Look thou upon me, and have mercy on me; for I am alone and poor. ~Psalm 24
This music can help set the tone for your examen: Ambrosian Chant for Lent
self In order to experience growth and interior conversion, it is important to know your strengths, weaknesses, personality tendencies and temperament. Hopefully, you have already taken the Temperament Assessment from Metanoia Catholic. If not, click the link and take it as I believe this information can really help you understand your tendencies and give you insight into why you react the way you do. When you know these things about yourself, you have the opportunity to grow into your strengths and overcome your weaknesses.
Your assignment for the weekend is to listen to the Metanoia Catholic podcast on your specific temperament. Or, listen to all of them and get to know a little bit about all of them. I'll bet your head will be nodding in agreement when they start describing you, your spouse and your friends.
PHLEGMATIC Don't forget to get your 40 minutes of intentional movement today! Is your phone still in grayscale mode? If not, this is your friendly reminder to do it!
service Conversion of life helps us to get rid of extra baggage and attachments that weigh us down (sin and worldliness) and leads to simplicity of soul. It's time to let go of some things so you become lighter (literally and figuratively) and freer to pursue the things of God. Get some bags and fill them with clothing, shoes, and household items that you are not using or no longer need. A good rule if thumb is if you haven't worn it or used it in the last year, it's time to donate it! (Unless it's maternity clothes and baby gear...if you get rid of those things, you will likely have to replace them. Speaking from experience!) Our Lord needs from us neither great deeds nor profound thoughts. Neither intelligence nor talents. He cherishes simplicity. ~St. Therese of Lisieux
today's recipe CURRIED ZUCCHINI SOUP I just got some zucchini today and am making this simple, delicious soup. This is also a favorite in the summer with the plethora of zucchini we get from the garden. This freezes well and is good cold...and even for breakfast if you think out of the box! 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced 1 tablespoon curry powder sea salt to taste 4 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and cut into 1 inch slices 1 quart vegetable or chicken stock Toppings: hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, grated carrot, chopped spinach Directions Heat the oil in a large pot. Stir in the onion, and season with curry powder and salt. Cook and stir until onion is tender. Stir in zucchini, and cook until tender. Pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 20 minutes. Remove soup from heat. Use a hand blender, or transfer in batches to a blender, and blend until almost smooth.
I love serving this on a bunch of spinach and/or arugula and topping with pumpkin and hemp seeds.
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