In this week's episode, we reflect on leading with our God-given authority rather than worldly influence. We discuss the importance of remembering our identity in Christ and how true authority is a display of intimacy that has been rooted in a real tangible love. We share the ways we may have been wounded by authority figures in our past, why these wounds can distort our perception of authority, and how to heal from these wounds so that we can lead others into the light of Christ.

Heather's One Thing - Chicken Khao Soi (Thai Coconut Curry Noodle Soup) from My Kitchen Little

Sister Miriam's On Thing - The book Litanies of the Heart by Dr Gerry Crete

Michelle's One Thing - Beatify: Lullabies with the Saints (an album of Catholic lullabies) from Beatify with Josh Blakesley and Kelly Lombardi

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Restore the Glory Podcast series on Parts Work (Parts Work (Part 1) w/ Gerry Crete; Parts Work (Part 2) w/ Brya Hanan; Parts Work (Part 3) w/ Bishop Andrew Miller)

Journal Questions:

How have I abdicated my God-given authority?
When do I perceive surrender to be a form of defeat?
How has authority been misused in my life?
How is God inviting me to stay with Him in faithfulness and obedience?
Where do I need to be both honoring and honest?

Discussion Questions:

How often do you think God is holding out on you?
How do I lose sight of God-given authority by seeking out worldly influence?
What accountability do I need to choose surrendered, God-given authority over worldly influence?
When have you felt safe under God's authority?
How do you need to grow and mature to better lead and serve others?

Quote to Ponder:

"The fourth commandment opens the second table of the Decalogue. It shows us the order of charity. God has willed that, after him, we should honor our parents to whom we owe life and who have handed on to us the knowledge of God. We are obliged to honor and respect all those whom God, for our good, has vested with his authority." (CCC 2197)

Scripture for Lectio:

"Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them." (Deuteronomy 4:9)

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