The 7th Commandment... This one’s one that sounds pretty simple on the surface — “You shall not steal.” Most of us probably think, I don’t rob banks, I don’t swipe candy bars from the store… I’m good!”But like most of the Commandments, the Seventh one goes way deeper than we think. It’s not just about stealing—it’s about stewardship, justice, and love.In the beginning, God gave us this beautiful Earth and said, “Take care of it.” He didn’t say, “This is yours, keep everyone else out.” He said, “Be stewards.” Meaning, take care of what you have — not just for yourself, but for others too.The Catechism actually says that everything on Earth is entrusted to humanity’s care. We can own things, but ownership isn’t supposed to be selfish. It’s a way to serve others. That’s kind of a mindset shift, isn’t it? What if instead of asking, “What’s mine?” we asked, “How can what I have help someone else?”It reminds me of that moment with Zacchaeus in the Gospel — the tax collector who climbed the tree to see Jesus. When Jesus came to his house, Zacchaeus basically said, “Lord, I’ll give half my possessions to the poor, and if I’ve cheated anyone, I’ll pay them back four times over.”That’s repentance in action. That’s what the Catechism calls reparation—making things right when we’ve taken something unjustly. And this commandment doesn’t just deal with money or stuff. It’s also about respecting people and creation.It even forbids slavery and using others for personal gain. That’s powerful — because it shows that “stealing” can mean taking someone’s dignity or freedom, not just their property.And it even extends to animals! We’re called to treat them with kindness. God gave us creation to care for — not to exploit.That means how we consume, how we waste, how we treat the environment — it all ties into the Seventh Commandment.When I waste food or buy stuff I don’t really need, I have to ask myself — am I being a good steward of what God gave me?And then Jesus takes it even further in Matthew 25, where He says, “Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.”Because it’s not just about not stealing — it’s about actively giving.The Seventh Commandment calls us to generosity — giving alms, loving the poor, doing works of mercy. Feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, visiting the sick — those are all ways we show that we’re not attached to stuff, but attached to God.It’s funny how Jesus flips things. He’s not saying, “Don’t own anything.” He’s saying, “Don’t let what you own own you.”True freedom comes from trusting that God provides — and that what we have is meant to bless others.So maybe take a second and ask yourself — how attached am I to my stuff?Yeah… how quick am I to share my time, my resources, my money, even my attention?Maybe it’s not about stealing in the obvious way, but about those subtle ways we “take” — like taking credit, taking advantage of someone’s generosity, or hoarding what we could be sharing.Living out the Seventh Commandment is about living with open hands. Receiving everything as a gift from God, and offering it back to Him through love of others. So next time you think of “You shall not steal,” remember — it’s not just about what we don’t do. It’s about how we give, share, and care.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Jake and Cathy sit down with Austin Kelly, CEO of ChristianChannel.com, a growing faith-based streaming and podcast network dedicated to sharing inspiring movies, documentaries, and stories rooted in the Catholic faith. Austin is also the Co-Creator and Director of the independent Catholic TV series Knights of the Cross — a cinematic retelling of faith, sacrifice, and courage during the Crusades. In this episode, Austin shares the story behind starting Christian Channel, how it led to the creation of Knights of the Cross, and the deeper mission driving his work.He also gives a glimpse into his vision for the future of Christian media and how storytelling can evangelize in a digital world. You can help to crowdfund this project and have your name added to the ending credits with a $149 pledge at Donorbox.org/Knights. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Would you give up everything for God? In this episode, Jake and Cathy chat with Catherine Macora, a lay consecrated woman with Regnum Christi, who did just that — and found peace, purpose, and deep joy in return. Catherine shares what it’s like to live in community, serve on mission, and discover freedom in total surrender to Christ. Her story will challenge and inspire you to listen for God’s voice in your own calling.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Jake and Cathy catch up with Catholic singer-songwriter Aly Aleigha to talk about her journey of drawing hearts to Christ through music. She shares how the Camino inspired “Wait Out the Rain” and teases the story behind Aurora —a new song born from something that helped her and her now-husband through a long-distance relationship. Plus, get a sneak peek at her August 30 concert at the Cup O’ Joy in Green Bay.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Today… we’re tackling a commandment you might be tempted to skip over in your examination of conscience.The fifth commandment: “You shall not kill.”Now if you’re anything like me, your first thought might be:“Well, I haven’t murdered anyone. I’m good here. Let’s move on.”But, Jesus takes this commandment, like He does all the others, and flips the script. He says in Matthew 5:22:“Everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment.”So it’s not just about murder. It’s about the heart behind it. It’s about the ways we choose death over life in our words, actions, even in the quiet corners of our souls.Life is SacredThe Catechism of the Catholic Church (2258) reminds us that human life is sacred—from the moment of conception to natural death—because we are made in the image of God. You, me, every person we meet carries a divine fingerprint. So to harm another human being is dishonoring the Creator.No one has the right to destroy an innocent human life. And that truth is really the foundation for everything else the Church teaches about life—from abortion, to euthanasia, to suicide, and to war.Life is not ours to take. It’s ours to protect.What About Self-Defense?Now someone might ask, “But what if someone is trying to kill me? Or hurt my family?”The Church teaches that self-defense can be permitted. If you’re in a situation where force is needed to protect yourself or others, it can be morally justified as long as your intention is to preserve life, and not to kill. But to go beyond what is  necessary crosses a line. (CCC 2263–2265)It’s all about intention. Protecting life is the goal—even in conflict.Abortion & EuthanasiaThe fifth commandment also applies to abortion which the US Bishops have delcared as the preeminent issue. The Church teaches clearly (CCC 2270) that human life must be protected from the moment of conception. The unborn child in the womb is not just “potential life”- it is human life, and life, even in its most vulnerable form, has value.The same goes for euthanasia. Ending the life of someone who is sick or disabled—even with good intentions—is not the answer. Every person, no matter their condition, deserves respect and care. That doesn’t mean we have to prolong suffering at all costs—sometimes it’s okay to stop treatments that are extreme or burdensome. But there’s a difference between letting someone die naturally and intentionally causing death. (CCC 2276–2278)Suicide, Mental Health, and MercyThis commandment also brings to mind a very difficult and sensitive topic: suicide. The Church teaches that suicide goes against the love of self, love of neighbor, and love of God. But it also teaches that mental illness, trauma, and deep suffering—can lessen a person’s responsibility. (CCC 2280–2283)So, if you’ve lost someone to suicide know, the Church does not condemn them. In fact, we pray for them. We entrust them to God’s mercy—because only He knows the depths of their pain. And if you’re struggling yourself, please—reach out. You are loved. You are not alone. Call 988 to talk to someone who can help, or visit the 988 Lifeline. Words That Hurt, Scandal That KillsThe Fifth Commandment also covers what we might call “everyday violence”—not just physical, but emotional and spiritual. Have you ever said something that crushed someone’s spirit? Have you ever gossiped, slandered, or lashed out in anger? Anger and hatred can kill, even if no blood is spilled.Then there’s scandal—leading someone else into sin. That, too, is a form of spiritual death. If our actions cause someone else to fall away from God, that is serious. (CCC 2284)Caring for Our Own LivesThis commandment includes how we treat our own bodies. Life is a gift entrusted to us, and we’re stewards of it. That means taking care of our health, avoiding addiction, being mindful of food, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. (CCC 2288–2291)God wants us alive—not just physically, but fully alive in Him.Peace Over AngerSo how do we start to live this out?It begins with peace. Jesus tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. Not just tolerate them. Love them.Easier said than done, right?But that’s the challenge of the 5th Commandment. It’s not just a “don’t do bad things” rule. It’s a call to actively protect and promote life in all its forms.So ask yourself:Do my words build others up—or tear them down?Do I hold onto grudges or offer forgiveness?Am I honoring the gift of my own life—body, mind, and soul?Do I value all life, even the ones society says are disposable?This commandment is so much more than “Don’t kill.” It’s a lifestyle. A posture. A way of loving that honors the sacredness in every single person—including yourself.So this week, look for ways to choose life:Apologize. Forgive. Speak kindly. Defend the vulnerable. Take care of your body. Be patient. Let go of bitterness.And above all—remember that your life, and the lives around you, are not random or disposable.They are precious, on purpose, and worth protecting.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

In the midst of pain, where is God? Does He care? In this episode, Jake and Cathy explore the reality that we live in a fallen world where suffering is inevitable. They unpack the dangers of “manifesting” and the tendency to leave God out of our hopes and desires. Instead, they offer a Catholic perspective on redemptive suffering - how God can use pain and trials to purify us, draw us closer to Him, and bring about deeper healing and purpose.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

You might think the fourth commandment “honor your father and mother” is just for kids… but actually it applies to you too. 🏡 Honoring Beyond ObedienceThe Fourth Commandment does include obedience when you’re young like the classic “listen to your mom and dad” and “do your chores” thing. But the Catechism of the Catholic Church, in paragraph 2197, reminds us that this commandment reveals the order of charity. When we’re children, the very next people we’re called to love after, God, are our parents. This is because we owe them our life, and everything they’ve poured into raising us.🕊️ The Family as a Reflection of GodThe family, according to the Catechism, is a “communion of persons” that reflects the Holy Trinity. (CCC 2205) Your family—even with all its imperfections—has a divine origin and purpose.The family is called the domestic church—the place where we first learn to love, forgive, pray, and serve. It’s in family life that we begin to understand who God is, what love looks like, and how we’re meant to live in the world. (CCC 2204–2206)💬 Respect Goes Both WaysHonoring your parents continues on into adulthood. CCC 2218 tells us that adult children should give their parents material and moral support, especially in times of illness or loneliness. Think of the dignity that brings—to care for the ones who once cared for us.But also, parents have responsibilities too! The Catechism says that parents are called to be the first teachers of the faith. (CCC 2221) That means they’re supposed to help their children grow not just physically, but spiritually—to create a home full of love, forgiveness, respect, and virtue.This is a mutual calling. Parents honor their children by seeing them as children of God, not extensions of their own ego or dreams. They guide them, but they also give them the freedom to follow God’s call, not just Mom and Dad’s expectations. (CCC 2230)👨‍🏫 Not Just Families—Also Bosses, Teachers, LeadersBut this commandment isn’t just about family. It also extends to anyone who has a rightful authority in our lives. This includes teachers, leaders, pastors, employers… even the government. CCC 2199 points out that this honor extends to society at large. It’s about living with gratitude and respect, even when it’s not always easy.✨ So… What About You?So what about you?Who are the people in your life that you are called to honor? Maybe it’s your aging parents. Maybe it’s that boss who challenges you. Maybe it’s being a parent yourself and realizing the weight of that responsibility.Here are some things to ask yourself:-How intentional am I in honoring my parents, even now as an adult?-Do I lead with love and virtue in my own household?-Am I respectful to those in authority, even when I disagree?-Do I live in a way that shows gratitude for those who have helped form me?The 4th Commandment isn’t about power or rigid obedience. It’s about love, honor, gratitude, and mutual responsibility. When we live it out, our families and communities start to reflect something much bigger—the heart of God Himself.So, wherever you are today—whether you’re a parent, child, employee, or student, ask yourself: How can I live the 4th Commandment more fully? You might just find more peace and harmony in your relationships… and also in your soul.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Nathan Lancaster, a missionary with the Holy Spirit Newman Center at the University of Kentucky, opens up about the moment that changed everything—SEEK 2019 from FOCUS. What began as a personal encounter with Christ turned into a life of full-time mission on a college campus.In this episode, Nathan shares what it's really like to walk alongside students in their search for meaning, truth, and purpose—and why so many young adults are being drawn into the beauty of the Catholic faith today.Whether you're in college, in ministry, or just curious about how faith comes alive in Gen Z, this conversation will inspire and challenge you.🎧 Listen in for stories of transformation, bold mission, and hope in unexpected places.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Ever feel like your prayers for a miracle are going unanswered? In this episode, Jake and Cathy open up about how easy it is to chase happiness in all the wrong places—when Jesus is the only one who can truly satisfy. They talk about what it means to put God first, and how real peace comes when our lives are centered on Him. Plus, they unpack the idea that hope isn't about expecting a specific outcome—it's about trusting Jesus with whatever comes next.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

So here’s a question for you: When was the last time you really, truly, rested?I don’t mean just crashing on the couch scrolling through your phone—I mean soul-deep rest. The kind that fills you up and reconnects you with who you are… and whose you are.God made you in His image. You were literally handcrafted to reflect Him—His goodness, His creativity, and yes, even His rhythm of work and rest. And He didn’t just suggest this rhythm to us—He modeled it. God worked for six days, creating everything, and then on the seventh day… He rested. Not because He was tired, but because He wanted to show us how to live in balance.That brings us to Exodus 20, where God says:“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy”It’s not because God needs us to rest. It’s because we need to rest. Jesus even said, “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath.” So it’s a gift. A holy, weekly invitation to pause and breathe.Now, if you’re Catholic, you know that this isn’t just a day to nap. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that Sunday is now the fulfillment of the Sabbath—because Jesus rose from the dead on a Sunday. It’s a day that symbolizes the new creation, the new beginning that Jesus gives us. This is why it’s called the Lord’s Day.Going to Mass on Sunday—or Saturday evening—is not optional. It’s a holy day of obligation. That might sound strict, but think about it, God is giving you one day a week to rest, worship, and reconnect.CCC 2180 says: The faithful are bound to participate in the Mass. And choosing not to, without a serious reason, is actually a grave sin. That’s how important it is.And Sunday isn’t just about Mass—it’s also about rest. True, sacred rest. The Catechism says we should refrain from unnecessary work, unless it's for our family’s needs or essential services. So if you’re a nurse or first responder or someone providing for your family—you’re not being disobedient by working. But God still invites you to make space for rest, for worship, for renewal.And let’s be honest—rest doesn’t always come naturally in today’s hustle culture. We pride ourselves on being busy. We wear exhaustion like a badge of honor. But God’s not impressed by burnout. He’s calling us into freedom.So, here’s the real question:What does your Sunday look like?Do you make space for God? Do you give Him that hour at Mass?Do you trust Him enough to believe that your to-do list can wait? That He’ll take care of the details if you put Him first?Because honestly, the Third Commandment isn’t just a rule—it’s a rescue. It’s a holy reminder that you are not a machine. You’re a beloved child of God, and He wants you to be whole, not just productive.So maybe this week, challenge yourself to truly live out the Sabbath. Go to Mass with your heart open. Turn off your email. Take a walk. Pray. Rest. Laugh. Breathe.Because when we keep the Sabbath holy… it keeps us whole.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"music by audionautix.com"Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsuMusic released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8