The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture

WOF 478: Bishop Barron on the Theology of Balthasar (9 of 12)

Feb 24, 2025

Delve into the unexpected nature of divine calling, where personal stories illuminate how individuals often stumble upon their vocations. The discussion weaves through biblical archetypes, illustrating the delicate balance of embracing God's call while nurturing personal growth. Mary is highlighted as a pivotal feminine figure in this spiritual mission, emphasizing her role in the Church's overarching narrative. Dive deep into the theology of one of the 20th century's most influential Catholic thinkers and explore how his ideas resonate today.

18:56

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Quick takeaways

The unexpected divine call can redirect lives significantly, as exemplified by biblical figures like Moses and Paul who embraced their spiritual missions despite initial reluctance.

Mary's acceptance of God's will represents a profound model of mission, highlighting the essential role of femininity in the Church beyond traditional leadership roles.

Deep dives

The Unexpected Divine Call

The divine call often appears unexpectedly, compelling individuals to follow a path they never envisioned for themselves. Biblical figures like Moses and Paul exemplify this phenomenon, as they were chosen by God despite their perceived limitations, such as Moses’ speech impediment. This inexplicable calling resonates with many, as it can redirect one's life in surprising ways that contradict personal desires or societal expectations. The speaker reflects on his own vocation to the priesthood, noting the mysterious nature of this call, which was thrust upon him without prior desire or understanding.

The Unexpected Nature of Divine Calling

4min

Understanding Vocations Through Biblical Archetypes

14min

Today we continue with lesson nine on our walk through Bishop Barron’s lecture series on one of the most important and influential Catholic theologians of the twentieth century, Han Urs von Balthasar. We will come to understand his life, his theology, and his ongoing impact on the Church and our work to evangelize the culture. Enjoy!

Links:

Full lecture series available at the Word on Fire Institute: https://institute.wordonfire.org/
Podcast: WOF 149: Who Was Hans Urs von Balthasar?
More Resources: https://www.wordonfire.org/topics/hans-urs-von-balthasar/

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