Seeds of Hope: Talks and Homilies by Fr. Mike Muhr

One day, a priest was asked to address a group of prisoners. He had never done this before and didn’t know what to say until the Spirit spoke. This message is meant for you and me as well.6th Sunday of Easter readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/051026.cfm

If only our fears and troubles were like some cape that became attached to us, and we could just pull a string and cast them aside. Wouldn’t that be great? In this episode Jesus reminds us we have a choice as he reassures us and calls us to follow him, the way, the truth and the life!Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050326.cfmThe Litany of Trusthttps://sistersoflife.org/litany-of-trust/* Previously posted May 8, 2023

Have you ever heard the call of the Shepherd in your life? In this episode you’ll hear of three people who did and one reason why sometimes we don’t.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042626.cfm* Previously posted May 14, 2025

In this episode you’ll hear about two disciples on the road to Emmaus whose hearts were burning as Jesus interpreted the Scriptures for them. What does it mean to have a burning heart?Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/041926.cfmBook ReferenceThe story of the two priests is found in Discovering Your Personal Vocation By Fr. Herbert Alphonso, S. J.https://www.amazon.com/Discovering-Your-Personal-Vocation-Spiritual/dp/0809140446/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_2?dchild=1&keywords=herbert+alonso+vocation&qid=1618710465&sr=8-2-fkmr1* Previously posted April 16, 2021

In this episode you’ll hear how Jesus through the Holy Spirit gave his apostles the power to forgive sins. You’ll also hear the story of Maïti Girtanner who prayed for 40 years for the power to forgive her Nazi torturer.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/041226.cfmMaïti Girtanner’s storyhttps://www.ncregister.com/blog/what-happened-when-this-woman-met-her-nazi-torturer?amp* Previously posted April 8, 2024

In this Easter episode you’ll hear about God’s abiding presence and how our lives often parallel many experiences his disciples had. READINGS https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040526.cfm* Previously posted March 31, 3024

This episode may give you a way to experience Holy Week more deeply than you ever have before.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032926.cfmWatch the LambSong by Ray Boltz 1986https://youtu.be/UNT1AThOgME?si=u5SV_ByJRqoolbmA

In this episode you’ll  hear about Jesus’ seventh sign which is the raising of Lazarus from the dead. You’ll be invited to experience the grief, confusion, and faith of Jesus‘ dear friends.  Listen now to hear two questions to be answered by each one of us.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032226.cfm* Previously posted March 27, 2023

In this episode you’ll hear of remarkable transformations from darkness to light, and what St. John the evangelist proclaims to be the greatest glory in the history of the world.The Call of David - 1 Samuel 16: 1b, 6-7, 10-13aThe Man Born Blind - John 9: 1-41 Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031526.cfm* Previously posted March 11, 2024

In this episode you will hear of Jesus’ desire to quench a woman’s longing for a faith she didn’t think was possible. She’s so stunned and overjoyed when she receives it that she leaves her bucket at the well in search of others to share her good news. Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030826.cfm

In this episode you’ll hear the top three answers of fifty 95-year-olds who were asked the question, “If you could live your life over again, what would you do differently?Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030126.cfm

ENCORE EPISODEIn this episode you’ll hear how a grace-filled Lent flows from a spirit of gratitude.Book ReferencesFood for the SoulBy Peter KreeftPraying the TruthBy William Barry,  S .J.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022226.cfm

ENCORE EPISODE In the gospel passage today from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus invites us to take a closer look at the areas of our hearts relating to anger, chastity, and taking oaths.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021526.cfm.  (Shorter version of the Gospel)ReferencePraying the TruthBy Willam Barry, SJ

In this episode you’ll hear how much it means to Jesus that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. You’ll also hear the story of 6-yr old Kathleen Boe’s awe-inspiring witness.Kathleenhttps://drive.google.com/file/d/16WNVlL0LmFm6iNAPxG9WmOQ65krJ05k_/view?usp=drivesdkPicture of Kathleen’s lights https://drive.google.com/file/d/12Ff8CcKBIvzMjxU8ds_IC0vOOMJhuNmD/view?usp=drivesdkReadings https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020826.cfm“The world tells you many lies about who you are, and you simply have to be realistic enough to remind yourself of this.  Every time you feel hurt, offended or rejected, you have to dare to say to yourself: "These feelings, strong as they may be, are not telling me the truth about myself.  The truth, even though I cannot feel it right now, is that I am the chosen child of God, precious in God's eyes, called the Beloved from all eternity and held safe in an everlasting embrace.”Life of the Beloved  by Henri Nouwen New York: Crossroad, 1992, p. 49

ENCORE EPISODE Listen to an ancient form of spiritual direction that is still so right for today.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020126.cfm

In the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, Jesus’ first message was, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” In this episode you’ll hear how this is for many the entranceway to a deeper life with Christ.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012526.cfm 

In this episode you’ll hear about John the Baptist witnessing that Jesus is the Son of God. How is the Holy Spirit calling you to witness to Jesus in your life?Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011826.cfmSong Left It in the RiverBy Jamie MacDonaldhttps://youtu.be/fQpo3hIWqWk?si=Goq52VEUFL2DmN2S

In this episode you’ll hear about the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and the incredible words spoken from the heavens. Through him and with him and in him, they are meant for you as well.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011126.cfmPhotoSt. Brendan arrives on the Isle of the Blessedhttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1EaK3yT6XfaZOWe2aXF-01mojbzudpfwc/view?usp=drivesdk

ENCORE EPISODE In this episode you’ll hear of the great epiphanies in the bible and how God’ glory continues to be revealed in dramatic ways today.READINGShttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010426.cfm

ENCORE EPISODE In this episode you'll hear about Aaron's blessing, a 2700-year-old love letter to you!Aaron’s BlessingThe LORD bless you and keep you!The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace!Numbers 6:24-26 

In this episode you’ll hear about five core stories in the early life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and the example they offer for our families.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122825.cfm

Do you remember the line in Charlie Brown’s Christmas when Charlie Brown shouts out in an empty theater, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?“ In this episode you’ll hear about how we’re all part of something so much bigger than we realize. Christmas reminds us of this every year. Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122525-Night.cfmA Christmas PrayerBy Robert Louis StevensonLoving Father, help us remember the birth of Jesus. that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of the wise men.Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings and teach us to be merry with clean hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children and the Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen

Have you ever wished for a dream from God telling you what to do when you feel lost? Joseph had four of them in the first two chapters of Matthew’s Gospel. How was he able to trust that these were authentically from God and then act so decisively? Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122125.cfmBook Recommendation A Friendship Like No Other: Experiencing God’s Amazing EmbraceBy William Barry, SJ

In this episode you’ll hear the difference between praying with our expectations and walking with God in our desires. You’ll hear the story of Betty who embraced God’s blessings even in the midst of great hardships.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121425.cfm  

Monsignor John Cippel was a mentor for every generation from his own down through our newest seminarians. He was ordained as a Missionary of Africa and later became a priest of the Diocese of St. Petersburg. In this episode you’ll hear about three defining moments or periods of time that shaped his ministry and priesthood.He will be greatly missed!  

ENCORE EPISODE In this episode you’ll hear Isaiah the prophet describe an impossible scenario, and yet it’s God’s ultimate plan and desire! Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120725.cfmBook Reference Quiet Strength  By Tony Dungy

ENCORE EPISODE In this episode you’ll hear how Christmas used to be celebrated and how these next four weeks of Advent are so important for a graced-filled experience of Jesus’ birthday.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/113025.cfmBook Reference The Ruthless Elimination of HurryBy John Mark Comer

ENCORE EPISODEIn the gospel reading today, the good thief, admonishes the other crucified criminal, “Have you no fear of God?” What does the “fear of the Lord” mean?  In this episode you’ll hear about many fears that block or paralyze us and about this holy fear which is a gift of the Holy Spirit. Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112325.cfmSongJesus, Remember Mehttps://youtu.be/r6tVReXsioM

ENCORE EPISODE In this episode you’ll hear about God and violence, about judgment and the importance of being ready for our ultimate choice.Readings https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111625.cfmBook Reference The Great DivorceBy C.S.Lewis

Today is the Feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of St. John Lateran. In this episode you will hear about the importance of this church and how we are all made by God to be the temple of His presence.Readings

In this episode you’ll hear an answer to this question and how purgatory is deeply rooted in God’s inexhaustible mercy. 

In this episode you will hear about the parable Jesus tells of the Pharisee and the tax collector at prayer in the temple. He highlights the emptiness of one-way prayers.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102625.cfm

ENCORE EPISODE Why is life so difficult? Shouldn't it be easier? In this episode you’ll hear two powerful examples of faith and hope in the midst of adversity. Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101925.cfmBook Reference The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Values, and Spiritual Growth by M. Scott Peck, MD

ENCORE EPISODE In the gospel for today Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one returns to give thanks. Jesus asks, “Where are the other nine?” In this episode you’ll hear what Jesus tells the one, and through him, you and me.READINGShttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101225.cfm

ENCORE EPISODE In this episode you’ll hear about the meaning of respect and its powerful implications.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/100525.cfm

In this episode you’ll hear about Jesus’ parable The Rich Man and Lazarus. Where do you see Lazarus today in your life and how is Jesus calling you to respond?Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092825.cfm

ENCORE RECORDINGIn the Gospel today, Jesus tells three unforgettable stories of God‘s mercy. The story of the prodigal son is open-ended. In this episode you’ll hear three possible continuations of that story and God‘s outrageous hope.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/091122.cfmWhen God Ranby Benny Hester and John Parentihttps://youtu.be/asU6FXnHWus

In today’s gospel reading Jesus turns around and addresses the great crowd traveling with him. He is proclaiming the kingdom of God, but many are not getting it. He thus describes three conditions for being his disciple. This is a moment of choice for each person in the crowd, and for you and me.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090725.cfm

ENCORE EPISODEIf someone should  ever write a book entitled How to Be the Most Humble Person You Know, don’t buy it! Humility is God’s gift. Find out in this episode how to practice humility every day and every time you go to Mass. Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/083125.cfm

In this episode Jesus encourages us to enter through the narrow gate. What is the narrow gate and how can we enter it?Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/082425.cfm

ENCORE RECORDINGIn today’s gospel reading Jesus says, “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing.” What kind of fire is he talking about? He also says, “Do you think I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you but rather division.” How can these words be reconciled with all that Jesus says about love and forgiveness, his teachings about the importance of marriage and family and his prayer for unity? If these questions resemble yours, listen now to this episode.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081725.cfm“Someday, after mastering the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of love, and then, for a second time in the history of the world, man will have discovered fire.”Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, S.J., 

“Do you trust me?” is a question that reverberates throughout the Bible. In this episode you’ll hear about Abraham's astonishing faith and trust in a God he has never heard of before who leads him on a journey “not knowing where he was to go.”Hebrews 11:8 

Do regrets from past sins and mistakes still haunt you? In this episode you’ll hear of two keys that can unlock the prison doors of our regrets.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080325.cfm

Prayer is talking and listening. It’s a relationship in which we learn how to be honest and vulnerable and how to listen more deeply for the presence and voice of God in our lives. In this episode you’ll hear about the dialogue between Abraham and God and how Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray, offering them insights into this profound and mysterious relationship.Readings https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072725.cfm

ENCORE EPISODEIn this episode you’ll hear about hospitality that Wows! You’ll also hear about the famous story of Mary and Martha. What does Jesus mean when he says that “Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her?”Luke 10:42READINGShttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072025.cfm

In the four Gospels Jesus is asked 183 questions and he asks 307 questions of others. Jesus rarely offered a direct answer. He wanted us to think. He wanted to change hearts. In this gospel today Jesus is asked,  “And who is my neighbor?” He offers an unforgettable story as his answer and then asks each of us: “Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers’ victim?”Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071325.cfmBook ReferenceThe Questions of JesusBy John Dear

ENCORE EPISODEIn this episode you’ll hear how Jesus instructs his disciples to give the gift of peace to all who extend hospitality to them on their journey. Learn how you might receive this gift in a greater way and offer it to others.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070625.cfmPrayer of AbandonmentFather, I abandon myself into your hands; do with me what you will. Whatever you may do, I thank you: I am ready for all, I accept all.Let only your will be done in me, and in all your creatures -I wish no more than this, O Lord.Into your hands I commend my soul: I offer it to you with all the love of my heart, for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself, to surrender myself into your hands without reserve, and with boundless confidence, for you are my Father.St. Charles de Foucauld

What is the ultimate difference between Peter and Judas Iscariot and what does it mean for you and me?Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062925-Mass.cfm

In this episode three big “dots” in the  scriptures that have eternal consequences will be connected.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062225.cfm

ENCORE EPISODEHow can we begin to understand the mystery of the Most Holy Trinity, one God in three Persons? In this episode you’ll hear of one perspective and how it can change your life.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/061525.cfm