S12 E12 - Lent Book Study Part 5: Reconciliation

In this episode, we continue with part five of our Lenten book study Be Transformed by Dr. Bob Schuchts. We discuss how Reconciliation heals the wound of shame. We chat about how we all have wounds that make us feel unlovable and send us into isolation, which opens the door for the enemy to attack us with doubts and lies about these tender places. When we go to Confession, these places are brought out of shame, into the light, and restored to the truth that we are deeply and tenderly loved by God. This Lent, we encourage you to allow God’s mercy to restore you in the sacrament of confession. 

Heather’s One Thing - Jordan Peterson

Heather’s Other One Thing - The song Communion by Maverick City (feat. Steffany Gretzinger & Brandon Lake)

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Springtime! Yay!

Michelle’s One Thing - Holy Grit - Paul George (you can find on Amazon here)

Discussion Questions:

• How have you experienced healing in the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
• How do you hide in your shame and sinfulness?
• In what ways do you desire to more deeply experience the power of the sacrament?

Journal Questions:

• In what ways am I hiding my sinfulness when I confess my sins?
• Where do I experience shame that the Lord is inviting me to bring to Him for healing?
• Have I been hurt by the brokenness of priests in the Sacrament of Reconciliation? What does Jesus say to me in that wound?
• When was the last time I made a good confession?

Quotes to Ponder:

The sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the Church’s primary means of communicating this incredible and completely underserved gift of God’s compassion and forgiveness. Through the sacrament, the Holy Spirit is capable of reaching the deepest areas of our heart that keep us in degradation and separation. - Be Transformed, pg 123

“The whole power of the sacrament of Penance [Reconciliation] consists in restoring us to God’s grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship” (CCC, 1468). As such it heals the wounds of shame (dis-grace) and restores us to our true identity in Christ, as pure and undefiled children of the Father (see 1 Jn 3:1–3). - Be Transformed, pg 123 

Scripture for Lectio: 

“Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on, do not sin anymore.” John 8:11

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