How Should We Show God's Love to Family Members Who Disagree With Us? (Special Podcast Highlight)

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Timmerie and Michael Gasparro explore a topic that hits home during the season: loving family members who may not follow Catholic teachings, without compromising your faith. The holidays can bring all the feels: joy, nostalgia, awkwardness, and sometimes major family drama. But how do we handle those moments with grace? Catch the whole hour here! The Setup: Timmerie starts it off by acknowledging that the holidays are a time for lights, generosity, and family… but also a minefield of tension. Think: judgment, unresolved debates, and that one uncle’s political hot takes. Oh, and don’t forget the moral dilemmas: How do you love and welcome family living in “alternative lifestyles” while staying rooted in Catholic truth? (There's that inner conflict: "Am I endorsing this if I don’t say something?") The Model: Jesus at the Table Michael reminds us how Jesus set the ultimate example: He ate with sinners and tax collectors, shocking society. His approach? Radical love for the person without compromising the truth. It's about seeing the God-given dignity in everyone, even when their choices don’t align with Church teaching. Key Takeaways for the Christmas Season: Welcome Without Approval: Inviting someone into your home doesn’t mean endorsing their choices. Timmerie shares a personal example of growing up in a home where everyone was welcome, including family in same-sex relationships. Yet it was clear their lifestyle wasn’t approved. Kids can learn this balance, too! Loving others doesn’t have to mean moral confusion. True Compassion vs. Fearful Compassion: Father Jacques Philippe's wisdom: True compassion trusts that God loves your loved ones more than you do. Acting out of fear: approving harmful choices just to avoid conflict, ends up causing more harm. Trust in God’s plan! Be a Witness of Love and Joy: Sometimes, the most powerful witness isn’t what you say, but how you live. Create a home full of peace, generosity, and hospitality. Let your actions reflect Christ’s love. Know When to Speak and When to Wait: Not every moment is the right moment for a “come-to-Jesus” talk. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you on when to speak truth, or when just showing love is enough for now. Patience is key. Protect Young Hearts Prudently: When kids are involved, discernment is extra important. If a family member’s behavior crosses respectful boundaries, it’s okay to set limits to protect your children while still showing love to all. The Bigger Picture: Delight in Others Michael emphasizes the power of delighting in others: not in their choices, but in their God-given goodness. People are transformed by love, not by condemnation. As Timmerie says, being loved and welcomed can open hearts in ways debates never will. Final Thoughts: Love Transforms This Christmas, be bold in love and truth. Remember, welcoming someone doesn’t mean you’re compromising your faith: it’s about reflecting God’s love. With prayer, discernment, and hospitality, your home can be a place of joy that points others to Christ. PSA: Prepare yourself for that awkward family moment with prayer… and maybe pie. Always pie.