Just A Guy In The Pew Podcast

John Edwards

Welcome to the pew. The place where everyday catholic guys, talk about everyday catholic things, in front of the one person that can do something about it. Jesus Christ read less
Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality

Episodes

Stop Settling For Less
4d ago
Stop Settling For Less
This week John and Victor discuss the true purpose of life . . . and it isn't anything the world offers us. Many men today are wrapped up in a materialist culture, putting their careers and possessions above everything else, only to realize later in life that they missed out on some of the most important things in their lives. Others think that it's enough just to show up to church on Sundays and go about their business. Maybe for some they fear that what they would get if they gave everything up wouldn't be better. Men, it's time we dare to believe! Jesus promises us so much more and to settle for anything else is to settle for less. It's not wrong to have questions or doubts, but we have to take those directly to our Lord and trust in Him. Our faith isn't something. It's everything. Get in the Scriptures. Go to Mass everyday. Join a men's group. There's work to be done. Fulton Sheen quotes mentioned in today's episode: “We shrink therefore from God, knowing that he wants to enrich our being, rather than our having - that He wishes to elevate our nature, not to submerge and to lose it in trifles. He has called us to the superior vocation of being His children, of partaking of His nature, and of being related to Him as branches to a vine. Few of us completely want that elevation; it is our petty desire to have more, not to share the glory of being more. We want the poor shadows, not the light - the sparks, and not the sun - the arc, and not the circle.“ “As for the desire for the world and things increases in us, God makes less and less appeal. We hold back, our fists closed about our few pennies, and thus lose the fortune He holds out to us. That is why the initial step of coming to God is so hard. We cling to our nursery toys and lose the pearl of great price." Scriptures for further reflection: “For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life” - Mark 8:36 “Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” - John 6:27 “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. - 1 John 2: 15-17 “So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-2 “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus”. - Philip 3:14
You Can't Stay There!
16-04-2024
You Can't Stay There!
This episode brings you an in-depth exploration of men's ministry and personal development, filmed against the backdrop of our recent leadership summit in Columbus, Ohio. Join John and Victor as they unpack the transformative experiences of the summit, where men gathered to deepen their faith and leadership skills. The duo shares stories of reconnection and inspiration, reflecting on the powerful moments of community building and spiritual renewal. They delve into the importance of maintaining momentum post-conference, advocating for continuous engagement in faith through regular meetings and shared activities that foster a supportive environment for growth. Throughout the episode, John and Victor highlight the critical role of authentic relationships in personal and spiritual development. They discuss strategies for overcoming the isolation that many men face today by building strong, supportive networks that empower individuals to actively participate in their communities and churches. The conversation also turns to the practical aspects of leading a men's group, offering listeners valuable insights and actionable tips on how to initiate and sustain these transformative gatherings. From the logistics of organizing regular meet-ups to the emotional aspects of fostering open, vulnerable communications, they cover all bases. This episode is not just a recount of an event but a call to action for all men seeking a deeper, more connected spiritual life. Whether you're a long-time follower or a new listener, this episode promises to inspire, challenge, and equip you with the tools needed to make a lasting impact in your life and the lives of those around you. Tune in to discover how stepping up as a leader in your community can lead to profound personal and communal transformation.
I'm Going Fishing
09-04-2024
I'm Going Fishing
In this week's episode, John and Victor take a look at the journey and life of Peter in the 40 Days after the Resurrection. As they reflect on the Scripture readings from the first Friday of the Easter season, John and Victor draw parallels between the biblical stories of Peter's denial and his subsequent redemption, exploring themes of vulnerability, forgiveness, and the endless capacity for personal growth and healing in the light of Christ's mercy. This episode is a raw look at the moments of despair that can lead to profound transformations through faith and community support. This week's episode is not only a narrative of personal struggle but also a testament to the power of surrendering to God's will, the importance of community, and the ever-present hope that faith in Jesus brings. It's a reminder that no matter how far we may stray, redemption is always within reach, inviting us to cast our nets once more into the waters of faith, hope, and love. Whether you're struggling with personal demons, searching for meaning in the midst of chaos, or simply seeking a deeper connection with your faith, this episode offers a message of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of God's love. Follow us! 👇 https://www.instagram.com/justaguyinthepew/ https://twitter.com/JustGuyinthePew https://www.facebook.com/justaguyinthepew BECOME A PARTNER IN THE PEW! 🤝 www.donorbox.org/pew START A MEN'S GROUP IN YOUR PARISH! ⛪️ www.justaguyinthepew.com DOWNLOADS 📚 Get a copy of my new eBook, “12 Ways Guys Can Get Closer to Jesus”! JUSTAGUYINTHEPEW.COM/EBOOK
Lenten Series: Your Whole Heart  Pt. 1-Envy
12-02-2024
Lenten Series: Your Whole Heart Pt. 1-Envy
"Envy is the assassination of brotherly love." - Archbishop Fulton Sheen A blessed Lent to you all! This week kicks off a new Lenten Series on the 7 deadly sins from John and Victor. In this week's episode we begin our Lenten journey as John and Victor discuss envy, one of the seven deadly sins that goes unnoticed but can undermine our spiritual health. The guys share their own personal battles with envy, revealing how it has manifested in their lives and the struggles they've faced in overcoming it. They remind us that we are not alone in our imperfections and that envy is something we all struggle with in our lives The two also discuss the transformative power of genuine sacrifice and how true spiritual growth often requires us to give up not just the superficial things but also those deeper attachments, sins, and wounds that keep us from fully embracing God's will. They explore the concept of internal cleansing, drawing a compelling parallel between decluttering our physical spaces and tidying up our inner lives. Grab a seat in the pew and listen in to find out how to offer up your struggles with envy and how to combat it by living a life of gratitude. In this episode you will hear: -The difference between giving up and offering up -What the catechism says about true sacrifice -The deadly sin of envy and how we all struggle with it -How to combat the sin of envy and offer up those struggles to God this Lent -How to clean out your heart and allow God in as your offering this Lent