You Were Born for This with Fr. John Riccardo

In this final episode of their Lenten series on Psalm 51, Fr. John and Mary reflect on how David’s acknowledgement of the need for a broken and contrite heart can prepare us to better understand and marvel at what Jesus is doing for us on the cross. Psalm 51:16-19 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In their ongoing Lenten series on Psalm 51, Fr. John and Mary concentrate on how David is not only desperate to receive God’s mercy but to announce that He is merciful to others who are likewise in need of it. Psalm 51:13-15 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

Continuing their Lenten series on Psalm 51, Fr. John and Mary linger with verses 11 and 12, highlighting David’s humility and self awareness that everything he has and is is a gift from God that could be taken away…and yet isn’t because of God’s great mercy. Psalm 51:11-12 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

“Our God is a consuming fire,” Hebrews tells us, and so it is not safe to draw near Him. And yet God is Goodness itself and invites us into His presence. In this episode, as Fr. John and Mary continue to reflect on Psalm 51 they focus their attention on David’s cry, “Create in me, O God, a clean heart!” Psalm 51:6-10 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their reflection on Psalm 51, reflecting this week especially on David’s tearful, no-excuse act of repentance and how he serves as a model for us. Psalm 51:3-5 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051%3A3-5&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their reflection for Lent on Psalm 51 and go deep with the unexpected and shocking love of God. Scripture passage: Psalm 51 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary discuss how and why for Lent they’re going to be doing a series on Psalm 51. Today’s episode breaks open the background of this most hopeful Psalm of David. Psalm 51 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051&version=NABRE) Register for Rescue LIVEs at https://rescueme.live Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue the conversation from last week’s episode on speech and consider how we as disciples of Jesus can be agents of recreation in our culture by how we speak, text and post. First Reading: Sirach 27:4-7 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ben%20Sira%2027%3A4-7&version=NABRE) To register for Rescue LIVE Acadiana and/or Rescue Michigan, visit rescueme.live Book Recommendation: The Hidden Power of Silence in the Mass, by Fr. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B. Scriptural Exam for speech: Prov 15:28 “The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.” Prov 16:28 “A perverse person stirs up conflict and a gossip separates close friends.” Prov 20:19: “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” 1 Peter 3:10: “For whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.” Titus 3:2: “Slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate and always to be gentle towards everyone.” Prov 21:23: “Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” Prov 18:13: “To answer before listening, that is folly and shame.” 1 Thess 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up just as in fact you are doing.” Prov 16:24: “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Eph 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs so that it may benefit those who listen.” James 3:5: “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.” Col 4:6: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Prov 12:18: “The words of the reckless pierce like swords but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Ps 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be pleasing in your sight, my Lord, my rock and my redeemer” Mt 12:34: “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary reflect on how convicted they are by David’s extreme reticence to harm King Saul, a man who is actively trying to kill David, and offer an examination of conscience to consider focused on how we think and speak of others. Scripture | 1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%2026&version=NABRE) Rescue LIVE Acadiana | Register here (https://rescueproject.us/rescueme-live/) Greece Pilgrimage May 27-June 6, 2026 | Register here (https://www.ctscentral.net/) Franciscan priest, deacon and seminarian retreat June 23-27, 2025 | Register here (https://steubenvilleconferences.com/) If submitting topics to ACTS XXIX regarding "nonverts", email us at mission@actsxxix.org Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary discuss the parable that Jeremiah puts before us this Sunday and how we can move from being a barren shrub in the desert to a lush tree planted beside a river with deep roots. Scripture for today’s podcast | Jeremiah 17:5-8 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah%2017%3A5-8&version=NABRE) Register for Rescue LIVE Acadiana, LA, March 22, 2025 at rescueproject.us/live Pilgrimage to Greece and Turkey, May 27-June 6, 2026. Register at: https://www.ctscentral.net/ Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary discuss the call of Isaiah and an unexpected reality all of the saints experience as they encounter the majestic and glorious God. Rescue LIVE Acadiana, Louisiana Registration link: https://www.abidecatholicministries.com/rescue-acadiana Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-2a, 3-8 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%206%3A1-2%2CIsaiah%206%3A3-8&version=NIV) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary reflect on the passage from Nehemiah in light of a transformative experience the ACTS XXIX family had last week on retreat with some Maronite bishops and priests and encourage us to visit an Eastern Rite liturgy sometime this week. Nehemiah 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Nehemiah%208%3A2-4%2CNehemiah%208%3A5-6%2CNehemiah%208%3A8-10&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary reflect on the staggering truth that God’s love for us is more intimate than we can imagine. Isaiah 62:1-5 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2062%3A1-5&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

As we begin this new year, Fr. John and Mary dig into the word “Comfort” spoken by the prophet Isaiah and share some helpful places they turn to for comfort. Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11 (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/isaiah/40) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

As we turn the page on the calendar, Fr. John and Mary reflect on the manifestation of Jesus as the true King of all the world and offer a practical thought to consider for our new year’s resolutions. Isaiah 60:1-6 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2060%3A1-6&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary address the fact that Christmas is not an escape from reality but rather the celebration that God has come to fight for us. Isaiah 9:1-6 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%209%3A1-6&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary talk about the extraordinary ways Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus, and how some prophecies we’re still waiting to see fulfilled are not only right around the corner but will be beyond anything we can imagine. Micah 5:1-4a (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/micah/5) Book referenced, “Come Lord Jesus: Meditations on the Art of Waiting” by Mother Mary Francis Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

Zephaniah 3:14-18a (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zephaniah%203%3A14-18&version=NIV) In this episode, Fr. John and Mary break open what joy is and is not and why and how we as disciples of Jesus should be marked by it. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

Why can we have hope in the middle of calamitous situations? Because God is good, He is faithful and He acts. In this episode, Fr. John and Mary look at the disaster that had befallen Israel at the time of Baruch, how God rescued them, and what that has to say to us here and now. Baruch 5:1-9 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Baruch%205&version=NABRE) Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)

Jeremiah 33:14-16 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah%2033%3A14-16&version=NABRE) What is Advent really all about? How are we supposed to be living and feeling in these days? What is the Word of God saying to us? In this episode, Fr. John and Mary reflect on the fact that the best is not in the past — it’s yet to come; for God is faithful and nothing is impossible for Him. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at mission@actsxxix.org (mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)