In this week's episode, we continue our Lenten study on the book “A Time of Renewal” and focus on the theme of being in conversation with Jesus. We reflect on the importance of reserving space for dialogue with God, surrendering to Him our own plans and desires, and allowing Him to love us in our poverty. The process of dying to self is always accompanied with the hope in the promise of resurrection and new life that Jesus offers.     Heather’s One Thing - In thanksgiving for Deacon Bob and Fr Dave Pivonka letting her use their studio to record this episode and for being asked to be a guest on their podcast called They That Hope. Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The book How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David Brooks Michelle’s One Thing - Her household sisters at Francisan University   Journal Questions: Am I in conversation with God or in a monologue with myself? How can I create more space for dialogue with God? What Isaacs (idols) do I have? How do I self-sabotage in order to confirm my deepest fears?   Discussion Questions: What does it look like for you to be a new creation in Christ? Have you ever felt like God contradicts Himself? How did He resolve that apparent contradiction? What littleness in your life do you tend to hide and run away from? How can you be more open with the Lord in your littleness? What holds me back from entering into prayer honestly or making a confession regularly?   Quotes to Ponder: “Then, a word about the Tabor Gospel. I was newly impressed by the fact that Moses and Elijah were in conversation with Jesus. Let us be occupied always in being in conversation with Jesus. We know the deepest conversations are the wordless ones. We love that simple and profound word of Pope Saint John Paul II, “Let Jesus be the one to whom you talk the most.”” (Mother Mary Francis P.C.C. A Time of Renewal. Kindle Edition. Page 76)   Scripture for Lectio:  “Here am I, Lord!” (Genesis 22:1)   Sponsor - CORDA: Connect with the saints and create a peaceful place of prayer with CORDA's handcrafted Catholic candles. Each candle has a custom scent inspired by saints and the faith, and they're made with clean coconut wax and have a beautiful, modern design. There’s 24 candles and counting, including ones inspired by St. Therese, St. Augustine, and Morning Prayer, with unique scents for everyone. There’s even a fragrance-free option, inspired by Mary the Immaculate Conception. Each CORDA candle comes beautifully packaged, with the story behind the scent inspiration on the box. And the simple design of the candle leads with beauty, making them perfect for gifting and helping you share the faith in a lovely and meaningful way. If you know someone getting married or having a baby, CORDA also offers special bulk discounts for wedding favors, bridal showers, and baby showers!  CORDA is a Catholic small business run by a husband-and-wife team, and they'd love to gift you a free tealight sampler with your next order of $35 or more - thar's 6 free mini candles! To receive your special gift, be sure to go to cordacandles.com/abiding and follow the steps on that page (good now through April 30, 2024).