Podcast Summary: Day 84 - "Do Not Be Afraid"
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
- Host/Author: Ascension
- Episode: Day 84: Do Not Be Afraid
- Release Date: March 25, 2025
- Description: In this episode, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames guides listeners through a profound reflection on the first Glorious Mystery of the Rosary—the Resurrection of Jesus Christ—emphasizing the theme "Do not be afraid."
1. Introduction and Resources [00:00 - 02:00]
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames begins by welcoming listeners to Day 84 of the Rosary in a Year podcast. He highlights the availability of a comprehensive prayer plan accessible via Ascension Press or by texting "RIY" to 33777. Ames encourages listeners to utilize the Ascension app for enhanced podcast features and recordings of the full Rosary.
Notable Quote:
“The Rosary in a Year is brought to you by Ascension.” [00:30]
He also recommends the "Rosary in a Year Prayer Guide," which complements the podcast with daily Scripture readings, saint reflections, and sacred art illustrations.
2. Lectio Divina: Scripture Reflection [02:01 - 12:00]
Ames introduces today's Lectio Divina focused on the first Glorious Mystery—the Resurrection of Jesus. The selected passage is Matthew 28:1-10, with an emphasis on the phrase "Do not be afraid."
Scripture Passage Summary: Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visit Jesus' tomb at dawn, witnessing an earthquake and an angel who declares, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen." The women depart with fear and great joy to inform the disciples, encountering the risen Jesus who reiterates, "Do not be afraid."
Notable Quotes:
“Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus, who was crucified.” [04:30]
“Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee. There they will see me.” [09:15]
3. Meditatio: Deep Reflection [12:01 - 35:00]
Ames delves into a profound meditation on the scripture, exploring the symbolism of dawn representing a new beginning. He highlights the theophany elements—earthquake, angelic presence—and the natural human reaction of fear juxtaposed with divine reassurance.
Key Insights:
- Authenticity of the Resurrection: Ames emphasizes the detailed account of Jesus' death and resurrection, reinforcing the reality of these events.
- Theological Hope: He discusses how the resurrection offers a foundation of hope that transcends fear, suffering, and injustice.
- Trust in the Father: Ames reflects on Jesus' unwavering trust in the Father, encouraging listeners to cultivate a similar trust that assurance "will not have the final word."
Notable Quotes:
“He really died. He really is risen.” [17:45]
“Trusting the Father doesn’t mean that bad things won’t happen, but it means that they will not have the final word.” [23:10]
“A hope which does not disappoint.” [29:50]
4. Oratio: Structured Prayer [35:01 - 50:00]
Ames guides listeners through a structured prayer divided into five parts: Receive, Respond, Request, Rejoice, and Receive the Good News.
Prayer Components:
- Receive: Embracing the truth of the resurrection and its implications.
- Respond: Adoration and praise for the risen Lord and the faithful Father.
- Request: Asking for the grace to maintain hope and trust in challenging times.
- Rejoice: Expressing gratitude for the gift of resurrection and the peace it brings.
- Receive the Good News: Affirming the victory of Jesus over death and suffering.
Notable Quotes:
“Receive the fullness of the hope offered to us by the resurrection.” [40:20]
“Help us to come again and again to you, Jesus, the risen Lord.” [45:10]
“Thank you for the most holy Gospels which present to us the great mystery, the great gift of your resurrection.” [48:35]
5. Contemplatio: Praying the Rosary [50:01 - 58:00]
The session concludes with a guided Rosary prayer, inviting listeners to meditate on the theme "Do not be afraid." Ames encourages presenting personal anxieties and allowing the risen Lord to impart peace and confidence.
Key Focus:
- Do Not Be Afraid: Repeating this affirmation throughout the Rosary to internalize trust and hope.
- Personal Reflection: Allowing the risen Christ to address specific areas of fear and uncertainty in one's life.
Notable Quotes:
“Do not be afraid. Do not be afraid. Do not be afraid.” [55:45]
“Let us pray in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” [57:30]
6. Closing Prayers [58:01 - End]
Ames leads the congregation through the traditional Rosary prayers, including the Our Father, Hail Marys, and Glory Be, culminating in a final blessing.
Final Words:
“Thank you for joining me and praying with me, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow.” [57:50]
Conclusion
In Day 84 of "The Rosary in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames offers a deeply moving reflection on the Resurrection, emphasizing courage and hope. Through scripture reading, meditation, structured prayer, and the Rosary, listeners are guided to embrace a life free from fear, anchored in the victorious love of Christ. This episode serves as a beacon of faith, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate victory over fear and adversity.