The Catechism says Sunday requires Mass, rest, and joy—but why is this day so special for being with God?
The episode begins by citing the Catechism on Sunday obligations: participating in Mass, resting, and enjoying joy as worship of God. It explains that Sunday is a special day for being with the Lord, rooted in Jesus' earthly life where he always acted accompanied, not alone. The speaker references the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus calls the Twelve to be with him and gives them power to expel demons, highlighting that this call was based on his desire, not their qualifications. This act is described as foundational for the Church, emphasizing that God is family and communion is essential. Pope Benedict is quoted on the new family of God based on communion with Jesus, who is the living Torah, breaking ties of blood. The meditation stresses that following Christ is a vocation, requiring being with him first—like the Apostles' three years—before preaching or healing. It details what being with Jesus means: glorifying the Father, fulfilling His will, praising Him, and maintaining an attitude of gratitude, especially at Mass. Practical obstacles are addressed: fear, sadness, and despair, illustrated by a Franciscan priest's dying advice to avoid these as demonic. The speaker contrasts this with Sartre's view that 'hell is other people,' citing Cardinal Ratzinger's counter that hell is being alone. Saint Teresa's exercise is used to show transformation through companionship with Jesus (e.g., 'Teresa alone is weak, but Teresa with Jesus is strong'). The talk encourages listeners to rekindle their hearts in Jesus' love, avoid complaining, and see being with him as the secret of saints. It references Saint Josemaría on the security and happiness found in Christ. Finally, Mary is presented as the master of being with Jesus, supported by an anecdote about a doctor naming his children after her, emphasizing her constant presence and role as mediatrix of graces.
