Is Peace Capitulation?

(An extended answer is available for download here)

After President Trump’s threat against Iran, Pope Leo responded with a sharp condemnation that immediately stirred controversy. Was the Holy Father simply condemning the horrors of war, or did his words risk sounding one-sided in a conflict shaped by Iran, Hezbollah, Israel, and the collapse of Lebanese sovereignty? In this episode, we step away from the media noise and examine the deeper question: how should Catholics understand Pope Leo’s remarks in light of the Church’s perennial teaching on war, peace, legitimate defense, and justice? This is a measured and honest reflection on a painful subject, seeking clarity rather than slogans. 

• (00:00) - Opening Question and Personal Disclosure

What if Lent isn’t about giving things up — but about discovering what God wants to give you?

• (00:00) - Introduction: The Lent You Didn’t Plan

In this Qorbono reflection, we explore a covenantal approach to Lent — not a bottom-up checklist of sacrifices, but a top-down season of grace. Drawing on the Catechism, Scripture, and the Fathers, we examine how Lent becomes a time of intensified receptivity: a season in which the Lord initiates specific transformations in our lives.

Through practical guidance and a personal testimony of unexpected grace, we uncover what might be called “the Christmas hidden in Lent”—the gift God wishes to place under the tree of sacrifice.

If you’ve ever felt Lent devolve into spiritual dieting, this conversation will help you rediscover its true purpose: not deprivation, but preparation.

What is the purpose of Scripture?

The answer to this question might seem obvious until you start thinking about it. What is the purpose of Scripture in our lives? Does reading the Scripture and knowing the Word of God matter? How does it affect my daily life?
This talk is broken into three main parts: 

1. Overview of Scripture and purpose in our life
2. Difficulties in properly interpreting Scripture
3. Cover specific passages and show how they are typically misinterpreted

By the end of this talk, you will have a better sense of the structure and purpose of Scripture. You will better understand why it is important to read it, and, you will proceed with care to avoid misinterpreting what the Bible says.

Please keep in mind that my first name used to be Naji (as stated in the talk) and that I changed it to Michael but most people still refer to me or know me as Naji!