Br. Joseph Trout, OP

In this reflection, Br. Joe explains that distractions in prayer often stem from how we are living our daily lives. Drawing from the First Letter of St. John, we are reminded: "Whoever says he loves God but hates his brother is a liar." If we are harboring anger or failing to love our neighbor, our relationship with God will suffer.

Any great coach will tell you that victory depends on the fundamentals: discipline, dedication, and doing the little things well. Drawing from his experience as a cross-country coach, Br. Joe explains the motto "Trust the Process." Just as athletes must trust their training to reach the finish line, we are called to trust in God's love

"The Kingdom of Heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force."

True rest doesn't just come from sleep; it comes from a deepening commitment to works of love and letting God guide our strength.

Jesus's challenging teaching: "When you have done all that you were commanded to do, say, 'We are unprofitable servants.'"

He explores how the imperfections of the Body of Christ can cause people to question their faith, and challenges us to consider our own role, revealing God's unending mercy for those who repent.