Walk Humbly

In the United States, we will celebrate World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly this Sunday. Pope Francis chose a unique theme for this year: "Do not cast me off in my old age." The Holy Father wants to "call attention to the fact that, sadly, loneliness is the bitter lot in life of many elderly persons, so often the victims of the throwaway culture." Use this day as a reminder that grandparents and the elderly are a treasure to be honored, for they impart great wisdom, experience, and love to their own families and to future generations. May we pray that our grandparents, living or deceased, and the elderly among us always feel our warm embrace, always are remembered, and forever have a place in our hearts.

It is a natural tendency that when someone offends us, our first inclination is to retaliate and seek revenge. We want the other person to feel the same hurt, the same harm, and the same sadness inflicted upon us. Such a choice, however, only leads to more evil and destruction. Jesus shows us a radically different option, which may have incredibly difficult challenges, but is not impossible to take. Offer forgiveness. Be reconciled. Think of how transformed our culture would be if we only paused for a bit before striking back; if we were able to see the goodness in others no matter the pain we may feel in the moment. To forgive from our heart is only possible with God's grace and by remembering the many times Jesus has forgiven us.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Acclaims the new diocesan website and shares some of his favorite features

• Gives thanks to God for all parents and educators of Arlington Catholic school students amid the back-to-school season and offers some highlights of the year ahead

• Learn more: Diocese of Arlington Catholic Schools welcome back more than 18K students (Fox5)

• Elaborates on what "cell phone-free schools" mean for students in the diocese

• Read on in the Arlington Catholic Herald: "Phone-free learning: Diocesan high schools help students detach from devices"

• Applauds a trend in the MLB: teams hosting Faith Nights

• Previews the upcoming livestream event on September 5 featuring a documentary premiere, an exclusive first-look of the renovated Cathedral of Saint Thomas More, and Solemn Mass in Celebration of the Golden Jubilee

• Watch now: Trailer for the Golden Jubilee Documentary

As our world becomes increasingly secular, we risk losing a sense of our lives having any lasting meaning or purpose. We strive for all sorts of worldly things, attempting to find permanent and lasting happiness in passing experiences. Ego, narcissism, and self-centeredness risk overwhelming us, turning us from practicing charity, generosity, and sacrifice at the heart of true love. We will encounter many choices during our earthly journey, and the paths we take can go in multiple directions. The good news is that a relationship with God, the author of life, offers us true meaning and purpose. A life in Christ includes faith, integrity, humility, and service to others. Practicing these virtues on a daily basis all lead to genuine joy and life, now and forever.

At some point, all of us will have an ailment, sickness or heaviness of heart that afflicts us. It might be a lingering illness, an injury that limits our mobility, or a sadness that simply refuses to leave us. We may attempt to reassure ourselves that things will get better – yet hope remains elusive. But there is hope, and hope has a name. Jesus once cured a woman who had been ill for 12 years, and raised a girl thought to be dead. He continues to heal us, in accordance with his will, when we least expect it. He raises us at our lowest points. Our Savior only asks for our faith in his power to do so, and it is this faith that will save us. Pray: Lord, increase my faith.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Returns to the podcast refreshed from his recent retreat at San Damiano Spiritual Life Center

• Acclaims two new keepsakes commemorating the 50th anniversary of the diocese

• Encourages all to attend the upcoming virtual event on September 5 featuring a documentary premiere, an exclusive first look at the renovated Cathedral of Saint Thomas More, and livestream of the Solemn Mass in Celebration of the Golden Jubilee and Dedication of the Altar

• Expounds upon the theme of renewal in his latest column

• Decries once more the blasphemous depiction of the Last Supper during the Olympic Opening Ceremony following the action he and fellow Church leaders took in its wake

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• "I was incredibly inspired by the Eucharistic Congress! My fear is that we will lose momentum. Rather than plan another Congress for a decade from now, why not have a similar event more often? What about a Eucharistic Congress taking place on alternating years, when World Youth Day is not being held?"

Far too often we are willing to delay, defer, or postpone projects or plans because they are an inconvenience. We have a tendency to push things down the road, convincing ourselves we will get it done when our schedule allows. The issue becomes: what if those plans that could be of significant benefit to us never come to fruition because of our inattention or failure to act with any urgency? It is essential that we approach today as God's gift and make the most of it. Saint Paul VI encouraged us to avoid procrastination when he said: "Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives, that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it now! There are only so many tomorrows."

Few of us can venture on a journey to a location with which we are unfamiliar without proper planning – maybe some maps, a GPS system, or, better yet, a guide who knows the way. We put our trust in the one who leads us, that he or she will show us how to traverse any rocky ground, help us navigate through rough stretches, and ultimately deliver us to that peaceful place we envisioned. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who leads the flock. If we follow him, we will stay on the right path and not get lost in life. As we go through today, tomorrow, and every day thereafter, may we walk in his way; listen to his voice; and allow him to guide us. Always remember, it is Jesus who leads, and we who follow!

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Recaps his time on pilgrimage to Catholic England with the St. Paul Leadership Forum

• Highlights the unity around our Eucharistic Lord and some of his favorite moments from the 10th National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis

• Previews the upcoming livestream of the Mass dedicating the new altar of the Cathedral of St. Thomas More and an exclusive historical documentary of the diocese

• Unpacks the recent excommunication of Archbishop Viganò and encourages all in prayer

• Pleads with the faithful to pray for all public leaders and for an end to political violence following the assassination attempt on former President Trump and President Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• I try to attend daily Mass, but some parishes have "worker-unfriendly" Mass times for full-time workers. How do I go about advocating for earlier Mass times?

Our love for others must reflect patience in all our dealings. Sometimes, we may find it easier to be patient with strangers than with those closest to us – our spouses, children, parents, and other family members. We need the grace of God so that we can see others as he sees them; forgive others as he forgives them; and love others as he loves them. If we live in such a way, our patience will be reflected in how we speak to each other, in the encouragement we offer, and in the opportunities we give one another to begin anew. This patience will create a loving and peaceful atmosphere within our homes and circle of friends. As Sacred Scripture reminds us, love is kind and patient!