Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 14 - The Humble Astonishment of Elizabeth

Avoiding Babylon

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22:42

We are here recording live at Medallia Experience at the Wynn in Las Vegas, and have been seeing and hearing some amazing things about how AI can enhance the customer experience as well as enable teams at organizations to create more meaningful connections with customers. Today we’re going to talk about how AI can help to create better experiences for customers before, during, and after their interactions. To help me discuss this topic, I’d like to welcome Fabrice Martin, Chief Product Officer at Medallia. RESOURCES Medallia: https://www.medallia.com Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

for ca. et år siden 11:08

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Discover the awe-inspiring humility and profound faith of Elizabeth as we explore a momentous encounter from the Gospel of Luke. With insights from the sermons of Bishop Jacques Bossuet, we promise to reveal how Elizabeth's astonishment at Mary's visit can deepen our own understanding of recognizing God's presence in our lives. Through the lens of Elizabeth's response, filled with the Holy Spirit, you'll gain a fresh perspective on the virtues of humility and faith, paralleling the experiences of St. Peter and the centurion. Join us in reflecting on the extraordinary grace bestowed upon Elizabeth and John the Baptist, and learn how embracing faith leads us to the blessed fulfillment of God's promises, just as Mary experienced.

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Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/
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1. Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 14 - The Humble Astonishment of Elizabeth (00:00:00)

2. Meditations on Humble Astonishment (00:00:49)

3. Gaudete Sunday and Advent Reflections (00:09:43)

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#Religion #Christianity #Avoiding Babylon Crew #Podcasting Education #Comedy #Think We Know

Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 14 - The Humble Astonishment of Elizabeth

Avoiding Babylon

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published for ca. et år siden

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MP3•Episode hjem

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!

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Kapitler

1. Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 14 - The Humble Astonishment of Elizabeth (00:00:00)

2. Meditations on Humble Astonishment (00:00:49)

3. Gaudete Sunday and Advent Reflections (00:09:43)

459 episoder

#Religion #Christianity #Avoiding Babylon Crew #Podcasting Education #Comedy #Think We Know

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1
Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 41 / Holy Monday 12:31

for 11 hours siden12:31

12:31

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! The sacred journey of Holy Week begins with a powerful meditation on fidelity. Today's reflection takes us to Bethany, where Mary anoints Jesus' feet with precious spikenard and wipes them with her hair. The fragrance fills the entire house – a beautiful metaphor for how genuine devotion spreads and touches everyone nearby. At the heart of this meditation lies a striking contrast: Mary's selfless love against Judas's calculating betrayal. When Judas objects to this "waste" of expensive perfume, Jesus defends Mary, recognizing her act as preparation for his coming burial. "The poor you will always have with you," he tells them, "but me, you will not always have." Through this exchange, we glimpse Christ's special appreciation for contemplative devotion alongside active charity. This Holy Monday presents us with a profound personal challenge. The meditation gently suggests that both Mary's fidelity and Judas's treason exist within each of us. Every sin represents a small betrayal, while each act of devotion mirrors Mary's loving gesture. As we journey through this most sacred week, we're invited to intensify our prayer life, give generously according to our means, and recognize Christ's presence in the poor around us. Whether through material help or through prayer, Holy Week calls us to examine where we stand between these two paths – contemplation and treason – and to nurture the faithful heart that pours out its most precious gifts at the feet of our Lord. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 40 / Palm Sunday 15:19

for 1 day siden15:19

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Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! Palm Sunday stands as the monumental gate drawing us into the heart of our faith – Holy Week, the Holy of Holies of the liturgical year. As we join the Hebrew children waving palm branches and crying "Hosanna," we confront a profound paradox: the same crowds who welcome Jesus as king will soon demand His Crucifixion. This stark contradiction mirrors our own spiritual journey. We proclaim Christ as King with our lips yet sometimes crucify Him in our hearts through sin and indifference. Yet throughout this drama, one truth remains unchangeable – Christ is victorious. "It is not death that Jesus goes to seek today in Jerusalem, it is triumph." Even as Israel rejected Him, a new people arose from all nations of earth to acclaim Him as King and Savior. As we journey through Holy Week, each day invites us deeper into mystery: Monday (fidelity), Tuesday (silence), Wednesday (fortitude), Thursday (Eucharist and priesthood), Friday (sacrifice), and Saturday (hope). The liturgy brilliantly unites Christ's passion with resurrection, weaving themes of victory and joy even amidst suffering. We're called to unite ourselves with Christ's sacrifice by carrying our crosses and purifying ourselves of all that weakens our union with Him. This week demands spiritual action. Make a good confession to prepare yourself for Easter communion. Offer prayers for those who oppose Christ's kingship, recognizing that all humanity remains subject to Christ in matters of faith and morals. Christ paid an immeasurable price for our salvation – a price we all must reckon with through either sacrifice in this life or purification in the next. Will you join in proclaiming not just with your words but with your life: Christ is King? Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 39 12:17

for 2 dage siden12:17

12:17

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! Standing at the threshold of Holy Week, this reflective episode draws profound connections between Christ's Palm Sunday entry into Jerusalem and the ultimate judgment that awaits us all. The triumphant waving of palm fronds by the Jerusalem crowds foreshadows two momentous events: Christ's resurrection and His return as Judge of the living and the dead. We delve into Jesus' own description of the last judgment, where humanity will be separated based on our treatment of "the least of these." Have we recognized Christ in the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and imprisoned? St. John Vianney offers us a revolutionary perspective on suffering: "When the day of judgment comes, we will be so happy for our misfortunes, so proud of our humiliations, so rich by our sacrifices." This paradoxical wisdom invites us to transform our understanding of life's difficulties. As we prepare for Holy Week, we're challenged to see the Church herself as undergoing her own passion—a period of suffering and apparent defeat spanning decades. Our prayers during this sacred time can be offered for her renewal, not merely aesthetically but in her moral authority and influence in a world that desperately needs her guidance yet often mocks her voice. Will you join us in praying that after this extended passion, the Bride of Christ might experience her own resurrection? Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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The Death of Anglicanism and the Rise of Gen Z (and Dire Wolves) 1:59:42

for 3 dage siden1:59:42

1:59:42

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! Something unexpected is happening in Catholic churches around the world. While mainstream narratives suggest declining religious participation, a quiet revolution is brewing in the most surprising demographic: Gen Z. We're witnessing a remarkable surge in young Catholics embracing traditional liturgical practices, with recent data showing Latin Mass communities growing despite official Vatican restrictions. The Atlantic reports that these communities have been relegated to school gymnasiums and storage rooms, yet continue to attract devoted followers – particularly young ones. Studies show 44% of Latin Mass attendees are under 45, compared to just 20% in regular parishes. This trend isn't limited to America. In the UK, Catholics now outnumber Anglicans two-to-one among Gen Z, part of a pattern observed across all age groups. The Bible Society's research reveals Christianity growing after decades of decline, driven specifically by young adults seeking community, meaning, and connection in an age of social media fragmentation and mental health challenges. What's drawing the younger generation to ancient liturgical forms? For many, it's the reverence, beauty, and historical connection missing in contemporary worship. As one attendee simply put it: "This is a place where we more easily meet God." Others value the ceremonial aspects, Gregorian chant, periods of silence, and emphasis on sacrifice that characterize traditional practices. This phenomenon appears to follow what scholars call the "strict church hypothesis" – religious groups tend to thrive when membership demands commitment and sacrifice. In our increasingly secular world, perhaps the future of faith lies paradoxically in its ancient past. What do you think is driving this traditional religious revival among young people? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 38 14:55

for 3 dage siden14:55

14:55

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! The sorrowful mother stood weeping. As Good Friday approaches, we pause to contemplate a profound yet often overlooked dimension of Christ's Passion—the compassion of His mother, Mary, who didn't merely witness the Crucifixion but actively participated in the redemptive sacrifice. Mary's journey of suffering began when Simeon prophesied that a sword would pierce her soul, but reached its crescendo at Calvary. There, as St. Ambrose beautifully notes, when she gazed upon her Son's wounds, "what filled her mind was not the death of this beloved son but the salvation of the world." This remarkable insight reveals how Mary transcended personal grief to embrace a mother's ultimate sacrifice—willingly offering her Son for mankind's redemption. Her tears mingled with Christ's blood in a mystical cooperation that extends salvation to all generations. The spiritual practices suggested during this meditation provide practical ways to honor Our Lady of Compassion: praying the Stabat Mater, attending Stations of the Cross, contemplating Mary's sorrows, and returning to the daily rosary if we've abandoned it. As we enter this final week of Lent, Mary's example calls us to deepen our commitment to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Her sorrowful yet immaculate heart offers refuge to sinners and a model of perfect conformity to God's will even in the face of unimaginable suffering. Join us in this meditation on Mary's compassion, and let her tears of love wash over your soul as we prepare for the sacred mysteries of Holy Week. Has your devotion to Our Lady grown cold? This Passion Week offers the perfect opportunity to stand with her at the foot of the Cross and rediscover the transformative power of a mother's love. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 37 19:06

for 4 dage siden19:06

19:06

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! The transformative power of forgiveness takes center stage as we journey through the Thursday of Passion Week, with just nine days remaining until Easter. Through the moving Gospel story of Mary Magdalene washing Jesus' feet with her tears, we discover the perfect counterpart to the parable of the Prodigal Son—a firsthand account of divine mercy from the recipient's perspective. Mary Magdalene's encounter with Christ reveals how true conversion happens: having sought happiness in worldly pleasures and finding only emptiness, she sees in Jesus something authentic and beautiful that awakens her soul. Her silent tears and humble gestures speak volumes, and Christ's response teaches us everything about genuine forgiveness. Unlike Simon, Jesus—though perfectly pure—accepts her touch, her repentance, and simply tells her, "Go in peace." No lecture, no conditions—just complete restoration. This meditation arrives at the perfect moment as we prepare for Holy Week. St. John Vianney reminds us that "it is not the sinner who comes to God to ask forgiveness, but God himself who runs after the sinner." His warning that claiming our sins are too great for God's mercy is "a great blasphemy" challenges us to trust in limitless divine forgiveness. Whether you've maintained regular confession or haven't been in years, what better time than Passion Week to experience the mercy Christ offers? Our twofold resolution emerges clearly: prepare carefully for Easter confession with genuine contrition, and extend that same forgiveness to others who have wronged us. Share your thoughts on forgiveness and join us tomorrow as we contemplate Our Lady of Compassion through the beautiful Stabat Mater. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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The Historical and Typological Enmity of the Elder Brother (with Father James Mawdsley) 1:53:22

for 5 dage siden1:53:22

1:53:22

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! What if the key to understanding Jewish-Christian relations has been encoded in Scripture from the very beginning? Father James Mawdsley takes us on a profound journey through biblical typology, revealing how the recurring pattern of elder-younger brother relationships throughout the Old Testament illuminates our present circumstances and points toward future reconciliation. Through careful examination of Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers, and ultimately Jesus and Adam, Father uncovers the divine blueprint for healing the ancient enmity between Judaism and Christianity. This isn't merely academic theology—it's a roadmap for navigating today's most contentious religious and geopolitical challenges. The conversation ventures into controversial territory as Father Mawdsley challenges mainstream narratives about historical antisemitism and questions the conventional understanding of 20th-century events. Yet his approach remains deeply rooted in Catholic theology and Scripture, consistently emphasizing that the ultimate goal is reconciliation rather than retaliation. He distinguishes sharply between acknowledging hard truths and harboring hatred, reminding listeners that Jesus himself confronted Jewish religious leaders while praying for their conversion. Perhaps most compelling is Father's passionate defense of traditional Catholic liturgy, particularly the pre-1955 Holy Week ceremonies. He explains how these ancient rites contain profound theological truths in every gesture, word, and ritual timing—truths illuminating our relationship with heaven and our Jewish elder brothers. His conviction that liturgical restoration must precede the healing of religious divisions offers a perspective rarely heard in contemporary discussions. Whether you're interested in biblical typology, Catholic-Jewish relations, traditional liturgy, or simply seeking deeper theological insights, this conversation will challenge assumptions and open new pathways of understanding. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration that ultimately points toward hope—the hope of a glorious restoration of the Church and the long-awaited reconciliation between brothers separated by history but united in God's eternal plan. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 36 18:10

for 5 dage siden18:10

18:10

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! "I and the Father are one." With these words from today's Gospel reading, Jesus makes one of His most direct claims to divinity—a claim so shocking that the Pharisees immediately reach for stones to execute Him for blasphemy. This powerful Wednesday in Passion Week meditation explores how this ancient confrontation reveals a fundamental truth: our world is permanently divided into two camps—those who follow Christ and those who oppose Him. There is no comfortable middle ground. As French Catholic writer Ernest Hello powerfully states, "Placed between the fire of those who love and the fire of those who hate, you will have to throw yourself into the battle, on one side or the other." This challenges our modern tendency toward moral relativism and cultural indifference. We wrestle with the uncomfortable reality that what many consider neutrality actually serves the enemy's purposes. The large mass of people who remain indifferent to matters of faith—the cultural Catholics, the religiously unaffiliated—aren't truly neutral but unwittingly align themselves against God. This strikes at the heart of American Catholicism, which has historically tried to compartmentalize faith, keeping it private while conforming to secular standards publicly. The meditation offers three practical resolutions: following Jesus whatever the cost in our personal, family, and social lives; witnessing boldly for Christ while patiently enduring contradiction; and praying for missionaries working in difficult conditions. These acknowledge that authentic discipleship demands "enormous efforts and enormous sacrifices," including potential loss of relationships with those who reject the faith. Where do you stand in this unavoidable spiritual battle? As we approach Easter, consider whether you're fully committed to Christ and His Church or settled for a comfortable compromise that ultimately places you in opposition to God's purposes. The choice of camp is yours, but neutrality is an illusion. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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The Destruction of an Empire and the Salvation of a Nation 2:02:26

for 6 dage siden2:02:26

2:02:26

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! What if America is following Rome's exact path to collapse? In this riveting discussion, we unravel the disturbing parallels between the Roman Empire's downfall and America's current trajectory as a global superpower. The mechanism is startlingly simple—empires function as giant money pumps, extracting wealth from provinces until the system becomes unsustainable. Rome expanded dramatically after the Punic Wars, transforming from a small Italian state into a Mediterranean power. Similarly, America's post-WWII expansion created an imperial system that now shows dangerous signs of exhaustion. We explore how vassal states and foreign interests infiltrate imperial politics, from ancient Judea's manipulation of Rome to modern lobbying groups shaping Washington policy. This provincial extraction game leaves imperial citizens—ordinary Americans—gradually impoverished while elites fight over diminishing resources. Most troubling is the bargain citizens unknowingly accept: trading political sovereignty for cheap consumer goods. The Walmart economy provides affordable products while manufacturing capacity disappears and wages stagnate. Meanwhile, the definition of national identity becomes increasingly diluted, much as "Romanitas" lost meaning as Rome expanded. The pressing question becomes whether saving the American nation requires sacrificing the American empire. A transition would mean dramatically reduced consumption and profound economic upheaval—but could potentially restore republican government and economic sovereignty. Either way, history suggests that once an imperial system begins extracting more from its core than it returns, decline becomes virtually inevitable. Join us for this thought-provoking journey through history that may just reveal where we're headed next. How do we navigate what seems increasingly like the end of an era? Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 35 14:12

for 6 dage siden14:12

14:12

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! The world's hatred toward Christ forms the heart of today's powerful meditation as we journey through Tuesday in Passion Week. Reflecting on how Jesus walked in Galilee to avoid the murderous intentions of his enemies in Judea, we unpack the profound mystery that His suffering was entirely voluntary – He could escape when needed because "His hour had not yet come," but ultimately chose to surrender Himself for our salvation. St. Louis de Montfort challenges us with the stark reality that faithful Christians must stand apart: "We must not believe or follow the false maxims of the world, or think, speak or act like people of the world. Their doctrine is opposed to that of incarnate wisdom, as darkness is to light and death to life." This countercultural calling resonates deeply in our secular age, where Christianity increasingly finds itself marginalized and opposed. The meditation explores how Catholics have historically navigated hostile environments, often compromising to survive rather than standing firmly for their faith. Today's spiritual resolutions offer practical ways to strengthen our witness: making voluntary mortifications, offering interior acts of reparation when God's name is blasphemed, and praying for persecuted Christians worldwide. Even embracing silence in our noise-saturated culture becomes a radical act of spiritual resistance. As St. Vincent de Paul reminds us, "We have to be ready to suffer, sometimes in one way, sometimes in another, otherwise we would not be the disciples of this divine master." Join us in reflecting on how we might more faithfully follow Christ, even when doing so puts us at odds with the world around us. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 34 15:38

for 7 dage siden15:38

15:38

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! Today, we explore the profound story of Nineveh's conversion—a city once known for depravity and corruption that was transformed through 40 days of fasting and prayer. "O wonder of grace, who will sound the depths of the divine mercy?" This biblical account serves as a powerful mirror for our own Lenten journey, challenging us to recognize the transformative potential of genuine penance. When Jonas proclaimed destruction, the people responded with repentance, and they were saved. The tradition of veiling sacred images during Passion Tide takes center stage in our discussion. As Dom Guéranger beautifully explains, these coverings symbolize Christ hiding himself from those who sought to stone him—"a God hiding Himself that He may evade the anger of men. What a mystery!" The veiled crosses and statues in our churches create a visual emptiness that paradoxically heightens our spiritual anticipation while acknowledging the profound mystery of divine humiliation. When we look upon these covered images, we're reminded that sometimes, the most powerful spiritual truths are temporarily hidden from view. The wisdom of the saints accompanies us today: St. John Vianney reminds us, "If you have not made sacrifices, you will have nothing to harvest," while Blessed Anne de Guigne observes that amid life's fleeting joys, "That which lasts is to have made a sacrifice." As we enter the final stretch of Lent, let these insights inspire you to deepen your commitment to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. The transformation of Nineveh shows us what's possible—not just for our individual souls, but potentially for our communities and world. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 33 13:39

for 8 dage siden13:39

13:39

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! Passion Sunday marks an essential turning point in our Lenten journey as we enter Passiontide, the final and most solemn two-week period before Easter. Today, we explored the profound reality of Christ's sacrifice and what it means for our spiritual lives during these sacred days. At the heart of our meditation lies a stunning theological truth from St. John Vianney: "Our Lord suffered more than was necessary to redeem us, but what would have satisfied the justice of His Father would not have satisfied His love." The blood shed at Christ's circumcision alone would have been sufficient for mankind's redemption—each drop of divine blood carrying infinite redemptive power. Yet Christ chose the full suffering of the Cross not from necessity but from superabundant love. This revelation transforms how we understand the Passion and our own participation in it through Lenten practices. Drawing from Scripture, particularly Hebrews 9:12, we see how Christ fulfilled and transcended the Old Testament sacrifices. The high priest's annual blood offering foreshadowed Jesus becoming both priest and victim, offering His own blood for our salvation. Padre Pio's words further illuminate our path: "Let us climb generously the slopes of Calvary for love of Him, who was immolated for love of us." With these insights, I offered four practical resolutions to deepen your Passion Tide experience: dedicate time to meditate on God's sacrificial love, unite your daily struggles with Christ's sufferings, honor Crucifixes you encounter, and gaze lovingly at the Crucifix in your home or office. As we approach Holy Week, these practices help us "double down" on our Lenten commitments and finish our spiritual journey with renewed focus and devotion. Have you placed crucifixes throughout your home and workplace as visible reminders of Christ's sacrifice? Consider how these sacred images might transform your final days of Lenten preparation and draw you deeper into the mystery of God's boundless love. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 32 13:19

for 9 dage siden13:19

13:19

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! What does it mean to be obedient in today's Church? As we approach the final stretch of Lent—just two weeks away from Holy Saturday—this reflection tackles one of the most challenging aspects of modern Catholic life. The journey begins with beautiful scriptural images of Christ as our Good Shepherd, living water, maternal figure who never forgets us, and the light of the world. These metaphors reveal how completely Christ nourishes our spiritual lives, especially through His Body and Blood. But such overwhelming love demands a response from us, ideally one of prompt, joyful obedience. Yet obedience isn't simple in contemporary Catholicism. Between different communities with varying relationships to Church authority—from SSPX to diocesan structures—Catholics must navigate competing claims about where true obedience lies. The reflection acknowledges this tension honestly, advocating for a middle path that prioritizes obedience to Christ and Church dogma while extending grace to those whose prudential judgments differ from our own. There's wisdom in recognizing that the Church allows latitude on many matters. Rather than demanding absolute uniformity or abandoning structure entirely, we're called to respect the legitimate diversity within Catholic practice while maintaining unity on essentials. As we enter Passiontide tomorrow, we're reminded of seminarians making their commitment to celibacy through subdiaconate ordinations—men whose sacrificial obedience deserves our prayers and support. How will you balance faithful obedience with thoughtful discernment this Holy Week? Join us tomorrow as we explore love unto sacrifice on Passion Sunday, marking our entry into the final phase of our Lenten journey. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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Toward Easter - Daily Readings & Meditations for Lent 2025 - Day 31 19:22

for 10 dage siden19:22

19:22

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link! Death has become something our modern world sanitizes with euphemisms and "celebrations of life." We avoid speaking directly about mortality, even among Christians. But what if our understanding of death is fundamentally flawed? The Gospel presents us with a profound truth about death – it's not the end of life, but merely a passage to something greater. When Jesus says Lazarus is merely sleeping before raising him from the dead, He's revealing something essential about our human condition. What we habitually call "life" in the natural sense isn't true life at all. True life is supernatural life, our participation in divine life. This understanding transforms everything about how we approach death. For those who die in a state of grace, "life is changed, not taken away," as the beautiful preface of the Mass for the Dead tells us. Gone is the need to fear or avoid the subject of mortality. Instead, we can speak openly with our children about death, pray for those in their final agony, and remember that a "happy death" has nothing to do with physical comfort and everything to do with spiritual readiness. During these final weeks of Lent, let's reclaim these powerful spiritual truths. Make time for devotions like the Stations of the Cross, especially on Fridays. Listen to the haunting beauty of the Stabat Mater. Most importantly, cultivate those daily practices that keep us mindful of our mortality without succumbing to fear: make an act of acceptance regarding your own death, foster the virtue of hope, pray for those approaching death, and remember the faithful departed through prayer, Masses, and indulgences. What state do you hope to be in when your final moment comes? How might embracing rather than avoiding the reality of death transform your daily life? Join us as we continue our Lenten journey toward the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection. Support the show Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Merchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss SpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylon Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon…

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The Final Trivia Night and the Passing of the Torch 1:51:55

for 11 dage siden1:51:55