In this episode, we explore the profound kingship of Jesus Christ, revealed not in earthly power but in His selfless sacrifice on the cross, as highlighted in the Gospel of Luke. Through the story of Fr. Jaison, a humble pastor who embodies servant leadership by cleaning parish bathrooms, we see how true authority mirrors Christ's loving service. The meditation from St. Dismas reminds us that even in our brokenness, Jesus remembers and invites us into His eternal kingdom of mercy and love.Reflection Questions:How does the image of Jesus reigning from the cross challenge your understanding of power and authority in your own life?What does your schedule reveal about your knowledge of Jesus' love for you, and how might you adjust it to reflect a deeper relationship with Him?If the cross is Jesus' throne of self-sacrificial love, what "throne" in your heart needs to be conquered by His reckless love for you?Here's a link to the meditation for you to re-read and pray with!Don't forget to pray for one another!
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38:34
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38:34
Living for Christ
In this episode for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time on Luke 21:5-19, Zac draws from encounters at a young adult retreat with a joyful Chinese Jesuit priest descended from a canonized martyr and a tearful participant inspired to priesthood despite family persecution, the discussion connects to Jesus' warnings of betrayal and hatred, urging a reception of a martyr's heart ready to face external and internal Calvaries. The episode challenges believers not only to die for Christ but to live fully for Him in ordinary moments, transforming personal pain into divine compassion, culminating in a meditative letter from Jesus inviting followers to persevere in love for healing and authentic self-giving.Reflection/Journal Questions:Consider the stories of the Chinese Jesuit priest and the retreat participant: How does hearing about their martyr's hearts, shaped by real persecution, challenge or deepen your own commitment to faith in a freer environment?How does the idea that true faith means not just dying for Christ, but living for Him in everyday ordinariness, resonate with your daily routines? What small "martyrdoms" can you embrace today?Ponder Jesus' invitation: "Give yourself away for my name’s sake, receive this martyr’s heart, and don’t just receive this heart, but receive your very self"—how can self-giving reveal your authentic identity rooted in His love?Meditation Link:Here's a link to a Google doc of the meditation if you would like to read it over and/or bring it to personal prayer.Don't forget to pray for each other!
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32:59
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32:59
Giving Over Getting
In this episode for the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica on November 9th, 2025, we explore John 2:13-22, where Jesus cleanses the temple, drawing parallels to personal experiences of inner turmoil. Host shares a recent dating dilemma filled with anxiety and indecision, resolved through confession, likening it to Jesus driving out mental "moneychangers" for true peace and surrender. Delving deeper, the discussion highlights the heart of worship as giving rather than getting, emphasizing Jesus' zeal for the poor and His call to purify our consumerist approach to faith. A meditative story from a temple dove seller's perspective illustrates transformation from profit-driven life to following Christ, reminding us of our dignity as temples of the Holy Spirit.Reflection/Journal QuestionsHow has anxiety or indecision in your relationships acted like "moneychangers" in the temple of your heart, and what steps can you take to invite Jesus to drive them out?In what ways do you see your own heart as a temple of the Holy Spirit, and what distractions or negative thoughts need to be purified for deeper peace?How might viewing Mass or prayer not as a place to receive but to offer everything deepen your connection to God and others?Here's a link to the meditation for you to read over and pray with!Don't forget to pray for one another!
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33:04
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33:04
Gift of Love
In this touching episode, Zac shares a heartfelt story from a friend's joy-filled wedding, painting it as a powerful image of self-giving love that mirrors our human call to freely give and receive. Rooted in John 6:37-40 for the Commemoration of All Souls, he reveals how we are precious gifts from the Father to Jesus, embraced without rejection and promised resurrection, igniting hope no matter our past. The episode challenges us to embrace purgatory as God’s merciful fire, actively urging us to pray and offer acts of love for departed souls, letting our identity as cherished gifts in the Trinity spark transformative action.Reflection Questions:Picture a moment when you gave yourself fully to someone—how did that spark joy, and how can you make that a daily habit reflecting God’s love?Knowing you’re woven into the Trinity’s eternal love, how can you face a current struggle with renewed courage and purpose?As a gift of love meant to love, what bold action (like praying daily for the departed or helping someone in need) can you commit to this month to shine your true identity?Don't forget to pray for one another!
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38:37
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38:37
Mercy Over Masks
In this week’s episode, we explore how an essential principle from romantic relationships reveals the heart of the Gospel in Luke 18:9–14. Through the story of the Pharisee and the tax collector, we uncover how emotional and spiritual intimacy with God must come before outward expressions of faith—just as authentic love precedes physical intimacy in relationships. Join us for a meditation from God the Father’s perspective, as He speaks tenderly to the tax collector, revealing what true humility and intimacy with Him look like.Journal QuestionsWhen you think about your relationship with God, do you tend to focus more on what you do for Him or how close your heart is to Him?How might the principle “emotional intimacy should come before physical intimacy” reshape the way you think about love — both human and divine?If your relationship with God were described as a romance, what small gesture of love might He be inviting you to offer Him this week?Here's a link to the meditation for you to take into prayer!
Taste & See is a weekly podcast that builds a community of prayer by offering heartfelt reflections and Ignatian meditations on the Sunday readings. Hosted by Zac Wierschem from Paradisus Dei, each episode is a preparation of the heart for the Sunday Mass of the upcoming weekend. Personal reflection questions and the text of the meditations are also provided to guide you and your family as you prepare to receive the superabundant grace God offers every Sunday and to deepen the graces you receive in prayer.
To learn more about our ministry visit: paradisusdei.org
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