When starting a program like this, it’s important to think about our purpose, and why are we watching. I’m sure that people in attendance are coming from different places in their own spiritual growth, but we have a few things in common. We have a shared Catholic faith that connects us to each other and to a local, and world community. It touches the present, spans thousands of years of history and reaches into the future. If nothing else, Fr. Barron’s video, will provide a beautiful visual tour that explores the roots and meaning of our faith.
Many of us have seen these videos before, and I’m sure that the repeat viewers have come back recognizing the program is so rich in content that we are able to pick up new details each time we watch. It is good to be reminded of the richness and depth of our faith, and to grow our understanding each time we recognize another of the many layers of subtle beauty that are embedded in Catholicism.
It is in our nature to seek purpose. I’ve learned that the most meaningful and satisfying moments of our lives, are usually not encountered on vacation at Disney World, or while watching the superbowl. Motivational researchers will tell you that people’s most satisfying and meaningful experiences happen when we take ourselves outside of our personal comfort zone, stretching our minds and bodies to achieve a difficult and worthwhile purpose.
As you watch the videos, I would encourage you to think about some of life’s big questions, and how they relate to our faith, especially in this year of faith.
• What is my purpose?
• Am I living my best possible life? If not, when am I going to start?
• Have I hitched my wagon to a cause that is greater than myself?
• Am I making a difference? What should I do?
There is nothing wrong with watching this program and seeing a beautiful multimedia experience and hearing some inspiring works, but how much better if we take it into our lives and use it as a catalyst to put our faith into action.
I’ll offer a couple of points to reflect on while watch for in the first video:
In this first installment, Fr. Barron describes one of the dangers is allowing Jesus to become overly domesticated as a gentle person with great teaching, but in reality he was a subversive who challenges us to let our faith break out of the status quo.
The second half of episode 1 describes Jesus’ fulfillment of the four tasks expected of the Messiah
• Gathering the tribes
• Cleansing the temple
• Dealing with the enemies of Israel
• Reigning as Lord of the nations
Following the video, we will break into smaller groups for a short discussion.
So make yourself comfortable, feel free to help yourself to coffee or dessert during the program, and enjoy the video.
