Summary of "The Rosary in a Year" Podcast Episode: Day 71 – Behold God
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
- Host/Author: Ascension
- Episode: Day 71: Behold God
- Release Date: March 12, 2025
Episode Overview: In Day 71 of "The Rosary in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames guides listeners through a contemplative journey centered on the Nativity story from the Gospel of Luke. Titled "Behold God," this episode emphasizes deepening one's relationship with Jesus and Mary through prayer, meditation, and reflection on the profound mysteries of the Rosary.
1. Introduction and Prayer Plan Overview [00:00]
Fr. Mark-Mary begins the episode by introducing the day's focus and reminding listeners about the Rosary in a Year prayer plan available at ascensionpress.com/riy. He highlights the benefits of building a daily prayer habit and tracking spiritual progress through the structured plan.
Notable Quote:
“Through prayer and meditation, the Rosary brings us deeper into relationship with Jesus and Mary and becomes a source of grace for the whole world.” [00:30]
2. Gospel Reading: Luke 2:1-20 [02:15]
Fr. Mark-Mary conducts a Lectio Divina (meditative reading) of the third Joyful Mystery, the Nativity. He reads Luke 2:1-20, detailing the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem amidst worldly declarations of authority by Caesar Augustus.
Notable Quote:
“Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart.” [07:45]
3. Reflection on Key Themes and Insights [10:00]
Delving deeper into the Gospel passage, Fr. Mark-Mary highlights several significant aspects:
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Divine Sovereignty: He points out the historical details like Caesar Augustus's decree and Quirinius's governance to illustrate that while worldly powers assert control, it is ultimately God who orchestrates events.
Quote:
“God is revealing that ultimately he is the one who is the Lord and Master of world events.” [10:30]
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Angel’s Proclamation: The appearance of angels to the shepherds, singing "Glory to God in the highest," signifies the divine announcement of Jesus's birth meant for all people, regardless of their social standing.
Quote:
“The angels singing Glory to God in the highest while speaking to lowly shepherds is a manifestation of God's inclusive grace.” [12:05]
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Mary’s Contemplation: Emphasizing Mary's role, Fr. Mark-Mary reflects on her internalization of the miraculous events, suggesting a model for personal meditation and reflection.
Quote:
“Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart.” [13:20]
4. Meditation and Imagination Exercise [15:50]
Fr. Mark-Mary invites listeners to engage their imagination to vividly visualize the Nativity scene. He encourages contemplating the environment, the emotions of the shepherds, and the innocence of baby Jesus.
Guidance:
- Visual Elements: Imagining Joseph’s attire, Mary’s clothing, the appearance of the manger, and the surrounding environment.
- Emotional Response: Reflecting on the shepherds' haste, joy, and reverence upon witnessing the newborn Savior.
Notable Quote:
“Imagine Mary holding the baby Jesus and see his little eyelids close as he naps, hear his breathing, notice his small, fragile, innocent, and beautiful presence.” [16:30]
5. Guided Prayer: Receive, Respond, Request, Rejoice [20:10]
Fr. Mark-Mary leads listeners through a structured prayer segment designed to deepen their connection with God.
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Receive: Emphasizing the humility and vulnerability of God revealed through the Nativity. Listeners are encouraged to accept the peace and love offered by Jesus.
Quote:
“Receive what God is revealing about himself… Do not be afraid, come close and receive the peace you find in this moment.” [22:00]
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Respond: Inviting praise and adoration, acknowledging God's goodness and humility.
Quote:
“Lord, we just adore you for your heart, for your goodness, for your humility.” [25:45]
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Request: Asking for increased trust in God, liberation from fears, and healing from past misunderstandings of God’s nature.
Quote:
“We ask that your nativity, that you Jesus in the manger may heal us from any experiences or ideas of God our Father as being a tyrant or a dictator.” [28:30]
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Rejoice: Celebrating the revelation of God’s love and the gift of the Nativity, reaffirming joy in prayer and divine connection.
Quote:
“We rejoice, Lord, in the gift of your nativity and that in prayer we can come to this place again and again.” [31:15]
6. Conclusion and Closing Prayers [34:50]
Fr. Mark-Mary concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to embrace the humility of God and internalize the message "Do not be afraid." He leads the community in the Lord's Prayer, multiple Hail Marys, and the Glory Be, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual peace.
Final Encouragement:
“Look deeply at the humility of God and receive these words spoken by the newborn king: Do not be afraid.” [36:00]
Key Takeaways:
- Divine Presence in Humility: The Nativity exemplifies God's approachability through humility and simplicity.
- Personal Meditation: Engaging the senses and emotions in prayer enhances the relational aspect with Jesus and Mary.
- Trust and Healing: The episode underscores the importance of overcoming fears and fostering trust in God's benevolent nature.
- Joyful Rejoicing: Recognizing and celebrating God's revelations fosters a deeper spiritual connection and community faith.
For Further Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to download the complete prayer plan at ascensionpress.com/riy and utilize the Ascension app for additional features, including full Rosary recordings with Fr. Mark-Mary and other friars.
Closing Note: Fr. Mark-Mary thanks the listeners for their support and participation, expressing anticipation for continuing the spiritual journey together in upcoming episodes.
Quote:
“God bless y'all.” [40:00]
This episode of "The Rosary in a Year" offers a profound exploration of the Nativity, inviting listeners to witness and internalize the heart of God revealed in Jesus's humble birth. Through guided meditation, reflection, and prayer, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames fosters a deeper connection with the divine, encouraging a transformative prayer life.