PODCAST | Encountering Christ Through Humility

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In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on how Jesus’ example and teachings on humility are key to knowing ourselves and to knowing God. Reflecting on Scripture, specifically the parable of the Pharisee and the publican, Fr. Peter highlights how we can only know God, and give ourselves to Him, when we own ourselves and are not held back by our pride, resentments, self-absorption, or sinfulness.

St. Josemaria Escriva said that Jesus’ greatest act of humility is to be a “prisoner behind the appearance of bread” in order to have an intimate relationship with each one of us and to serve us. Jesus remains in the Blessed Sacrament so that we may have him “all to ourselves; no lines, no tickets, no waiting rooms.” Fr. Peter reminds us to learn from Jesus’ example of self-emptying humility and self-giving love. “Though he was in the form of God, [he] did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave” (Philippians 2:6-7).

So, the more we empty ourselves, the more we experience Christ and allow him to live in us and take over our lives. And the more we allow this happen, the more all those around us will be able to see the compassionate and merciful face of Our Lord.

In this podcast, you will also hear how:

• The Pharisee’s prayer “doesn’t work” but the prayer of the Publican is effective because he humbled himself.
• We can’t be self-satisfied with what we have and try not to give it away – that’s pride.
• Holiness is more about being a good repenter than being a good performer.
• Humility is enhanced when we’re honest with ourselves, and making a good confession is a great antidote to pride.

Image by James Tissot via WikiArt