Tuesday’s show proved that just about everyone has had experiences of robocalls, especially those that are scams. Once again, we left full phone lines at the end of the show. So – you have spoken – we are going with a part two on Wednesday. Should be another lively conversation.
Didn’t the government once promise that it was going to eliminate robocalls and the annoyance they cause? Maybe they’re a fact of life we all have to live with. Do you answer your phone no matter what your screen says about the caller’s whereabouts? Or, do you let unidentified calls go to your voicemail first? How many automated calls would you say you receive in an average day, or over an average week? There may never be a solution to these all-too-frequent intrusions into our lives. If you have some thoughts on this topic, share them with Jerry and Debbie – and the world – on Tuesday’s show.
Take 2 With Jerry and Debbie gives you two opportunities each month to share your prayer intentions. Around the middle of the month we have our “God, I Need You Now!” show for urgent prayer intentions. The other one is what we’re featuring on Monday. We call it “Whom Or What Are You Praying For?” All prayer intentions are important to you, and also to God. And these shows are among the most active ones that we produce. So, call early on Monday to make sure the world gets to join you in praying for what’s important to you!
Once a month Jerry and Debbie invite not only your takes, but also your topics. What’s on your mind or in your heart? Bring it to the conversation on Friday!
The liturgical season of Lent is known for many things: prayer, fasting, almsgiving, taking on various forms of penance, “giving up” certain things for forty days, and so on. We can make the most of these opportunities if we intentionally get ourselves ready. In a very real way, we follow the example of Jesus Himself, who went away to pray for forty days and forty nights. Let us not forget that Our Lord was severely tempted by the devil during this time. We should expect nothing less to happen to us. Not in a sense that we are equal to Jesus, but as His followers, Satan would love nothing more than to steer us off the course we have chosen in following Christ. On Tuesday, let’s talk about this, and inspire and encourage one another to dig in this Lent and really offer ourselves without reservation to God.
Jerry and Debbie often talk about “Taking Another Look at Life.” That’s where the “tall” acronym comes from. Because so many of us have – at least at times – been hunched over emotionally, psychologically, perhaps even spiritually, it’s crucial to our overall growth and well being that we “reframe” who we are and stop dragging around a ball and chain. That means shedding negative self-images that may result from the wounds and traumas of life, and getting to a place of understanding how incredible is our worth and dignity. We really should “stand tall.” Not in a prideful way, but as beloved sons and daughters of God, a God who made us for greatness and a unique, sublime purpose. On Monday, we’ll ask you to call in and share with us how you have managed to achieve this in your life. Or, maybe you’re still seeking tools and direction to do this. You may even have never heard of this kind of freeing life process before. Let’s have a great conversation about it, and, as always, come away a little better for having spent some time together!
Wednesday’s topic was suggested by a longtime regular listener who has a same-sex attraction. He shared with us how, because of his intention to live in conformity to his Catholic faith, he is often shunned or considered a bigot. Here’s how he worded his e-mail:
“How LGBTQ Catholics who have chosen to be chaste feel shunned by the rest of the community. I know that if I make a comment, because of my beliefs, I’m usually the first to be called a bigot or shunned.”
Paragraph 2358 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church makes it clear that the utmost respect should be given to the personal worth and dignity of persons with a same-sex attraction. It states:
“The number of men and women who have deep-seated homosexual tendencies is not negligible. They do not choose their homosexual condition; for most of them it is a trial. They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided. These persons are called to fulfill God’s will in their lives and, if they are Christians, to unity to the sacrifice of the Lord’s Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition.
Let’s have a candid conversation about this issue, especially if you – or someone you love – experiences a same-sex attraction. How can we present the teachings of the Church in a manner that will be persuasive to those who may look down upon individuals who want to remain chaste while living with a same-sex attraction? Join us with your thoughts.
On Thursday, Jerry and Debbie will present a rather intriguing question for you to run with: Do you know anyone who thinks they’re smarter than God? What exactly do we mean? Well, for instance, those who say they don’t believe in God and are better for it. Or those who may believe in God, but say they would do things differently than He does. This could be a very lively and impactful conversation. Be sure to tune in and call in!
Hebrews 12:2 exhorts us to fix our eyes on Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 directs us to pray without ceasing. Do verses like this imply that we should have God on our minds 24/7? On Wednesday, join Jerry and Debbie and share your take on how mindful you are of God throughout your day. While it may not be possible to be thinking about Him at every moment, we can still direct our attention toward heaven countless times each day. We look forward to your take on this question on our next broadcast.