Radio Maria England WORD FOR TODAY - Fr Toby - The Tragedy of a Heart of Stone
Jan 21, 2026
Fr Toby reflects on the dangers of a hardened heart, particularly in the Pharisees who miss miracles out of prejudice. He discusses how constant suspicion can poison our inner peace and turn us judgmental. Drawing parallels with Les Misérables, he highlights the tragedy of missing out on grace. To combat this, he offers three key ways to soften our hearts: prayer, practicing mercy, and addressing our grievances. Ultimately, he encourages choosing healing and embracing joy over the rigidity of legalism.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
How A Hardened Heart Misses Mercy
- Hardness of heart makes people ready to accuse and miss mercy even when goodness happens before them.
- Fr Toby shows the Pharisees watched Jesus to catch him, not to hope or learn, revealing closed minds block recognition of love.
Disposition Skews Interpretation Of Facts
- We judge selectively, prosecuting those we dislike and excusing those we love, even with the same facts.
- Fr Toby notes disposition, not facts, often determines verdicts and reactions in politics and daily life.
Javert As A Warning About Rigid Justice
- Fr Toby uses Inspector Javert from Les Misérables to illustrate a heart that cannot accept mercy.
- Javert's collapse on encountering real grace shows how rigid justice can destroy the one who clings to it.
