Hope for Right Now: A Walking with Purpose Podcast

Episode 47: Mary, Morning Star

Join Lisa and Laura for the last week of our 4-week Advent series, House of Gold. The Virgin Mary is called the House of Gold because she was Jesus’ resting place: the one who threw the doors wide open with her YES. Mary made room for Jesus, and she has room in her heart for each one of us, too. This final week, they unpack the Marian title, Mary, Morning Star. Out of all the weeks in the Advent season, this is the week we really struggle to keep our eyes on Jesus. How can Mary, Morning Star, help us get everything accomplished in the next few days while remaining in Christ? Grab a coffee, hit play, and find out!

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Galatians 6:9: And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Luke 1:29: But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be.
1 Corinthians 8:1: “Knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up.

Invite Him in with this episode’s reflection.
Instead of a journaling question, as you go through the busyness of the day, be mindful to look up—up to the star—and to call on Mary. 

Show mentions.
Caitlin Bean and Laura Phelps, House of Gold: A Walking with Purpose Advent Reflection
Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God
Susanna Wesley
Caryll Houselander, The Reed of God
Kate Bowler, Christmas Blessing

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We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 46: Mary, Queen of Martyrs

Join Lisa and Laura for our 4-week Advent series, House of Gold. The Virgin Mary is called the House of Gold because she was Jesus’ resting place: the one who threw the doors wide open with her YES. Mary made room for Jesus, and she has room in her heart for each one of us, too. In this third week of Advent, they unpack the Marian title, Mary, Queen of Martyrs. Why is Mary a martyr if she didn’t die a martyr's death? Why are we focusing on suffering during the happiest time of year? These questions, and many more, are answered in today’s episode. Grab a cup of coffee and settle in—you do not want to miss this episode!

Open your Heart to our key Scripture. 
Luke 2:35: And a sword will pierce through your own soul also.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. 
Revelation 2:4–5: You do not love as you did at first. Remember then how far you have fallen. Repent and live as you lived at first. (Phillips)
John 19:25: But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Mag’dalene.
Ephesians 6:12–14: For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore.
Mark 5:41: “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!”
Romans 8:26: In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. (NIV)

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
What suffering are you trying to control? What are you doing instead of letting it be done? Ask for the grace to have faith in God’s plan and trust that He is making all things new. 

Show mentions.
Caitlin Bean and Laura Phelps, House of Gold: A Walking with Purpose Advent Reflection
St. Alphonsus Liguori quote
Thomas à Kempis, The Imitation of Christ
Seven Sorrows Rosary
N.T. Wright, Into the Heart of Romans
Pope Paul VI, Lumen Gentium 58
Mother Mary Angelica, EWTN

Let’s stay connected.
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Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 45: Mary, Queen of Peace

Join Lisa and Laura for our 4-week Advent series, House of Gold. The Virgin Mary is called the House of Gold because she was Jesus’ resting place: the one who threw the doors wide open with her YES. Mary made room for Jesus, and she has room in her heart for each one of us, too. In this second week of Advent they unpack the Marian title, Mary, Queen of Peace. Everyone longs for peace, especially at Christmas, but true peace in our hearts and homes is going to take more than lighting a scented candle; we need to set our hearts on fire for Jesus. Who better to help us than His Mother, the Queen of Peace? Get ready to open your heart, open your Bible, and let Peace in!

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Romans 12:2: Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
2 Corinthians 2:14–15: But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumph, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ.
Galatians 5:22: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.
John 19:27: Behold, your Mother!
Luke 1:38: And Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Luke 1:28: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
This week we have an Advent challenge! Start your day in prayer every day, specifically, praying the Hail Mary (slowly and reflectively). Put yourself in the annunciation story. Hear the angel calling the Holy Spirit down, and ask Him to break down doors that are keeping you from surrendering everything to God. 

Show mentions.
Caitlin Bean and Laura Phelps, House of Gold: A Walking with Purpose Advent Reflection
St. Girard quote
Yankee Candle, Autumn Wreath
Tyler Candle Company, Family Tradition
Carrie Gress and Noelle Mering, Theology of the Home
Caryll Houselander, The Reed of God
The Lila Rose Podcast, E153: The Life-Changing Power of the Rosary with Gabe Castillo

Our presenting sponsor is Hallow. Hallow is the number 1 prayer and meditation app dedicated to helping you grow closer to God and find peace with thousands of guided prayers and meditations. This Advent, join Hallow’s Advent Pray25 prayer challenge for an incredible way to experience the healing and transformational power of God. Featuring Jonathan Roumie, Bear Grylls, and Pastor Francis Chan. And enjoy Christmas music from Gwen Stefani, Lauren Daigle, Sarah Kroger, and Matt Maher. Visit hallow.com/walkingwithpurpose to get 3 months of Hallow free! 

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 44: Mary, Cause of Our Joy

Join Lisa and Laura for our new 4-week Advent series, House of Gold. The Virgin Mary is called the House of Gold because she was Jesus’ resting place: the one who threw the doors wide open with her YES. Mary made room for Jesus, and she has room in her heart for each one of us, too. This Advent we will prepare our hearts for the birth of our Savior by diving into a new title of Mary each week. Today, Lisa and Laura are excited to kick us off with a conversation about Mary, Cause of Our Joy. Have you ever struggled to find joy at Advent? Do you long for quiet preparation but always find yourself getting sucked into the constant doing? If so, you are in the right place. Grab some hot chocolate, a cozy blanket, and let Mary be your guide to true Advent joy.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Luke 2:46: My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Luke 1:35: And the angel said to her in reply, “The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.”
Ephesians 2:14: For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility.
Luke 1:29: But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be.
2 Maccabees 6:30: I am not only enduring terrible pain in my body…but also suffering it with joy in my soul because of my devotion to him.
1 Samuel 2:1-10: Hannah’s Prayer
Luke 1:38: Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
God wants to do something to you this Advent. Ask yourself: where is my focus? Is it in doing or receiving? In what area am I being asked to cooperate with the Holy Spirit? 

Show mentions.
Caitlin Bean and Laura Phelps, House of Gold: A Walking with Purpose Advent Reflection
Pope Francis, The Joy of the Gospel
Liguorian Magazine
Dr. Edward Sri, The Advent of Christ: Scripture Reflections to Prepare for Christmas
Caryll Houselander, The Reed of God

Our presenting sponsor is Hallow. Hallow is the #1 prayer and meditation app dedicated to helping you grow closer to God and find peace with thousands of guided prayers and meditations. This Advent, join Hallow’s Advent Pray25 prayer challenge for an incredible way to experience the healing and transformational power of God. Featuring Jonathan Roumie, Bear Grylls, and Pastor Francis Chan. And enjoy Christmas music from Gwen Stefani, Lauren Daigle, Sarah Kroger, and Matt Maher. Visit hallow.com/walkingwithpurpose to get 3 months of Hallow free! 

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 43: Sharon Sisbarro

Join Lisa and Laura for the next Real Women, Real Stories interview. Today you are in for some serious FIRE. Our guest Sharon Sisbarro, a retired Marine and ACTS XXIX board member, has a unique and powerful way of looking at the spiritual battle. Her story of deep hurt, despair, and fighting her way out of the pit is an inspiration and witness to the power of God. We cannot wait to share her wisdom with you. There isn’t a single soul who cannot benefit from the gold in this episode! 

Open your Heart to our key Scripture. 
Exodus 14:14: The Lord will fight for you; you have only to keep still.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
1 Timothy 6:12: Fight the good fight of the faith.
Job 1:21: The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.
Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare not evil, to give you a hope and a future.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Use the journaling worksheet, Estimate of the Situation, in adoration or any place you can get quiet and wrestle with it. Join our Facebook group to share your thoughts and questions. 

Show mentions.
Prepare your heart for Advent and Christmas with our beautiful digital download, House of Gold: A Walking with Purpose Advent Reflection. ⁠Daily throughout Advent and the Octave of Christmas, you'll meditate on a title of our Blessed Mother. You’ll be drawn deeper into her beautiful and holy, yet profoundly simple, life through carefully selected Scripture, beautiful reflections , journal questions, and guided prayer.⁠⁠ With your end-of-year donation to our apostolate, you'll receive this exclusive digital download as a thank you. ⁠

Our presenting sponsor is CB Jewelry. Faith is beautiful—and it's your best accessory. If you are looking for stunning and stylish pieces that communicate your faith, look no further! CB Jewelry is known for its modern and beautiful pieces that are sure to start conversations wherever you go. Whether you're searching for a meaningful gift or a new way to express your faith, CB Jewelry has you covered. Use the code Hopefornow, (all one word at checkout) for free shipping and a portion of your purchase will go to Walking with Purpose. Offer ends November 30, 2024! Shop CB Jewelry today at cbjewelryfaith.com.

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 42: JoAnn Crouse, Part 2

In today’s episode, Lisa and Laura sit down to continue their conversation with their dear friend, JoAnn Crouse. (If you haven’t heard JoAnn’s incredible story, be sure to go back and listen to episode 30.) JoAnn dives deeper into her story and talks about the stuff so many of us struggle with but are too ashamed to bring to the light: things like what happens to your identity when you find yourself suddenly single and what true forgiveness requires. Time spent listening to JoAnn is never wasted time. Her open heart and vulnerability are gifts. So go on and grab a cup of coffee and settle in; you will be grateful you did.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Ephesians 1:4–5: In love, (God) destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Is there a person in your life you need to forgive? What measuring stick are you holding? How are you loving others well?

Show mentions.
Comunità Cenacolo America, https://www.hopereborn.org
Mallory Smyth, Walking with Purpose, Reclaiming Friendship
Catholic Psychotherapy Association
Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Walking with Purpose, Living in the Father’s Love
Four Phases of Forgiveness (for complete descriptions, see Lesson 5 in Living in the Father’s Love):

Uncovering: You face the reality that you’ve been hurt and are angry.
Decision: Will you do this your way or God’s way?
Work: Just as its name implies, this phase often requires a lot of effort. This is where we put God’s way into action.
Deepening: In this phase, we choose mercy. 

Our presenting sponsor is CB Jewelry. Faith is beautiful—and it's your best accessory. If you are looking for stunning and stylish pieces that communicate your faith, look no further! CB Jewelry is known for its modern and beautiful pieces that are sure to start conversations wherever you go. Whether you're searching for a meaningful gift or a new way to express your faith, CB Jewelry has you covered. Use the code Hopefornow, (all one word at checkout) for free shipping and a portion of your purchase will go to Walking with Purpose. Offer ends November 30, 2024! Shop CB Jewelry today at cbjewelryfaith.com 

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 41: To the Heights

On today’s final episode of Ordering Your Priorities, Lisa and Laura discuss Talk 2: To the Heights. Notice that in this study and discussion we didn’t give a time management system to help you get every single priority done all the time. Why? Because we can’t get it all done! There will always be more expected of us than we are able to give, but now, we’ve hopefully got some new principles that we can apply to all sorts of different situations, ensuring that in the end, our time is given where it matters most. So grab your coffee and your study guide, and let’s dive in!

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
Colossians 3:2: Set your minds on things that are above.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
1 Timothy 5:6: For she that liveth in pleasures, is dead while she is living (Douay-Rheims).
She who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives (RSVCE).
Matthew 6:24: You cannot serve God and serve mammon.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.

1. Make a commitment—your non-negotiables or you might call it your “rule of life” or “plan of love.” Write out the commitment and keep it in your Bible or prayer journal.
2. Ask the Lord for the grace and strength you need to fulfill your commitment.
3. Tell a friend (a holy friend) what you are doing and ask her to hold you accountable. 

Show mentions.
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
Josemaría Escrivá, The Way
Norbertines of St. Michael's Abbey, The Great Fast
St. Francis de Sales, “The enemy nevertheless stands more in awe of those whom he knows can fast.”
Michael E. Gaitley, MIC, 33 Days to Merciful Love

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

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Episode 40: Priority 6: The World Outside

In today’s episode, Lisa and Laura discuss Lesson 7 of Ordering Your Priorities, Priority 6: The World Outside. After we have given attention to God, our heart, our spouse, our kids, and our homes, we are left with all those other priorities: people and commitments. For some of us, prioritizing is easy, but for others, not so much. Do you struggle with people-pleasing, setting boundaries, or maintaining a healthy work-life rhythm? If so, there is a way to cultivate a heart and home saturated with the peace that comes from ordering your priorities. 

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.
2 Corinthians 5:20: So we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.
Genesis 2:24: Man shall leave his father and his mother and shall cleave to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. (NASB)
Exodus 20:12: Honor your father and your mother so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. (NIV)

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.
Who or what got most of your time this week? Who or what got your leftovers? Make a list of your non-negotiables and stay accountable. 

Show mentions.
Dr. Henry Cloud, Boundaries
Jonathan Haidt, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
Timothy Keller, Gospel in Life Podcast, Work and Family episode
Fr. John Riccardo, The Rescue Project
Prepare for the next week’s episode by watching Talk 2: To the Heights.
Using code OYPBOGO, purchase one Ordering Your Priorities and get a second one at 50% off. Limit one use per customer. This offer ends October 31, 2024.

Let’s stay connected.
Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. 

Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community.

Stay in the know. Connect with us today. 

We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ.

Learn more about WWP on our website.
Our Shop.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube.