Dr. Michael James speaks to War, Death, and Immutability

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In the episode War, Death, and Immutability, Dr. Michael James delves into profound spiritual reflections on fear and anxiety related to war, death, suffering, and the virtue of immutability—the ability to remain steady and unwavering in one’s faith, despite external turmoil.

Dr. James opens the show by referencing a passage from Louisa Piccarreta’s mystical writings. In this passage, Louisa describes a vision in which she is transported out of herself and witnesses a chaotic scene, potentially a war or revolution. Amidst the chaos, she sees Jesus suffering deeply, being crowned with thorns by the people. Louisa tries to help alleviate His suffering but realizes she cannot; it’s beyond her power. Jesus then speaks to the people, telling them that many will die in war, imprisonment, or earthquakes, with only a few remaining. Dr. James reflects on this vision, emphasizing the message of inevitable suffering, death, and the divine justice that allows such events to unfold. He notes how Jesus, in His infinite patience, endures the crowns of thorns and how Louisa’s desire to help, although pure, can’t change the divine plan. This reflects the inevitable nature of suffering that is part of God’s redemptive plan.

Dr. James then shifts the conversation to the human emotions of fear and anxiety in the face of suffering and calamity. He acknowledges that it’s normal to feel afraid when facing the unknown, whether it’s a potential war, a personal crisis, or the inevitable nature of death. However, Dr. James encourages viewers not to let these fears lead to panic or attempts to control the situation in unhealthy ways, such as hoarding supplies or obsessively planning for disaster. He humorously addresses the human tendency to seek control through worldly means, such as buying extra toilet paper or canned goods, but reminds his audience that true peace comes from trusting in God, not in temporary, external solutions.

The discussion then turns to the concept of immutability and Dr. James explains that immutability is the capacity to remain unshaken internally, regardless of the external chaos surrounding us. He draws a parallel between living in God's divine will and experiencing inner peace like a calm sea, even when the world around us may be in disarray. Immutability is described as a sign that one is truly living in God’s will, as it reflects an unwavering inner peace that comes from complete trust in God’s plan, despite the external circumstances.

Dr. James touches upon the importance of trust in God during times of suffering and fear. He explains that suffering, though difficult, can have profound spiritual value when united with Christ's own suffering. Through this union, Christians can play a part in the redemptive work of God, helping save souls and finding deeper intimacy with Christ. Dr. James underscores that suffering is not to be avoided or feared but can be a source of grace when offered to God. This call to embrace suffering is framed not as a form of masochism, but as an opportunity to participate in Christ’s work of salvation, uniting one’s own suffering with His for the benefit of others.

A powerful moment of the show highlights Father Ianut’s discussion on the significance of suffering, particularly the sufferings of the elderly in nursing homes. Dr. James shares how Archbishop Fulton Sheen, known for his oratory and spiritual wisdom, would always visit nursing homes first when traveling. Sheen viewed the suffering of the elderly as an incredible opportunity for spiritual growth, both for those suffering and for those around them. He encouraged the elderly to offer their suffering to God, transforming it into a means of grace that could benefit not just their own souls, but the souls of others. Dr. James echoes this sentiment, reminding his viewers that suffering, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, should never be viewed as pointless. Instead, it can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth and intercession, especially when united with Christ.

Dr. James also stresses that suffering, while a result of the fall of humanity, is temporary and that it will ultimately be redeemed in the resurrection. He encourages his listeners to focus on the resurrection and the eternal life to come, rather than obsessing over the temporal nature of suffering. He warns against falling into the trap of a false prosperity gospel, which suggests that if one is good or faithful, they will be exempt from suffering or death. Instead, Dr. James teaches that suffering is a part of the Christian journey and that death is a necessary passage to eternal life.

In the closing moments, Dr. James poses a thought-provoking question: "Do you want to be a warrior for Christ?" He challenges his audience to recognize that in their suffering, they have an opportunity to be spiritual heroes. Just as superheroes save lives in fictional stories, Christians can "save" souls by offering up their suffering to God. Whether the suffering is from something small like a headache or something more serious like cancer, it can be united with Christ’s suffering to make a profound spiritual impact. This unites the individual to God’s redemptive mission and contributes to the salvation of others.

The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that all Christians, through their fiat to God, are united with His will. Dr. James encourages his listeners to remember that their suffering, no matter how painful or difficult, is never in vain. It is an opportunity to experience Christ’s love deeply, to suffer with Him, and to help save souls. By embracing suffering in this way, Christians can transform their pain into something beautiful and eternal, as they prepare for the glorious resurrection that awaits them.

Ultimately, Dr. Michael James' message is one of trust, immutability, and the redemptive value of suffering. It challenges believers to live with unwavering faith in God's plan, to unite their suffering with Christ, and to remain focused on the eternal life that follows, trusting that even in times of war, death, or uncertainty, God’s love and purpose will prevail.