As we enter into this Holy Week, we're contemplating the story of how a perfect Savior took on the penalty for our sin in order to reconcile us to God. Today we're talking about the reality of sin, and how looking at our sin honestly can be an unlikely door to personally experiencing the great mercy of God. Here are some resources I hope will help you draw close to Jesus this week:
1. If you'd like to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation this week, you should be able to find it offered at a number of area parishes, retreat houses, missions, shrines, Catholic colleges, and hospitals. Check their websites for details and feel free to travel a ways from your home parish - it can be a good opportunity to take some time in silence and prayer. Here's a primer on how to receive this Sacrament if it's been a while.
2. In addition, check your area for Eucharistic Adoration, Stations of the Cross, services for Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, and other Lenten programming.
3. Podcast: That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs, guest John Eldridge. This recent episode helped me gather in my thoughts about the last year and how to bring them to Jesus this week.
4. Podcast: That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs, guest Sally Lloyd-Jones. This episode pairs so well with the one before - unknowingly they both spend a good amount of time on psalm 23, the psalm we need this week.
5. Podcast: Abiding Together Lenten Study on This Present Paradise. This is part 5, but you'll want to go back and listen to them all.
6. Video: Making a Good Confession with Fr. Mike Schmitz
7. Book: The Return of the Prodigal Son, by Henri Nouwen
8. Song: Shadow Step, by Hillsong
9. Song: Even Unto Death, by Audrey Assad
10: Song: Run to the Father, by Matt Maher
11. Song: Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus), by Chris Rice
12. Song: Met by Love, by Capital City Music
13. Song: Mercy, by Amanda Lindsey Cook
14. Song: O Happy Fault, by Audrey Assad
15. Read the Gospel account of the last days of Jesus. Prayerfully journal or sit in silence as you contemplate just how big His love is for you.
