Episode Details

Which Son Are You? The Call to Conversion – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

In this episode of Building a Kingdom of Love, Msgr. John Esseff reflects on Jesus’ parable of the two sons and the uncomfortable truth that both sons can be found within each of us. One son refuses his father and later changes his mind. The other says yes but fails to act. Jesus directs the parable toward the chief priests and elders, yet Msgr. Esseff reminds us that its challenge reaches every Christian. We are all sinners in need of conversion, and the only perfectly obedient Son is Jesus Christ. Through Baptism, Christ dwells within us and draws us toward the obedience He offered to the Father.

The parable also becomes a reflection on the formation of conscience and the responsibility of those who guide others. Parents, priests, spiritual directors, and others entrusted with souls must be willing to help people recognize what leads toward or away from God. Msgr. Esseff identifies honesty, courage, love, and prayer as essential qualities for this work. Jesus Himself confronts sin without being deceived by outward appearances, yet His correction flows from a love willing to give everything for the person before Him.

Kris asks about the dangers facing those who feel called to accompany others spiritually. Msgr. Esseff’s answer is direct: every guide needs a guide. No one can safely become his or her own judge and spiritual director. A trustworthy guide is someone before whom we can speak honestly about our interior life, knowing that our weaknesses will be seen clearly without obscuring the beauty God sees in us. Ultimately, every Christian remains a sinner in need of conversion, while Christ dwelling within us continually calls us toward deeper healing, obedience, and union with the Father.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. When Jesus tells the parable of the two sons, which son do I recognize most readily in myself?
2. Where have I said yes to God with my words but failed to follow that yes with my actions?
3. Am I honest with God about the places in my life where I resist His will?
4. When I have responsibility for another person, especially as a parent, priest, teacher, or spiritual guide, do I have the courage and love necessary to help form their conscience?
5. Do I have someone trustworthy who can help me see my own interior life more clearly?
6. What qualities should I look for in someone who accompanies me spiritually?
7. Where is Jesus inviting me to conversion right now so that His own obedience to the Father can become more fully alive in me?

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