Behold My Heart: Praying the Seven Last Words

Behold My Heart Praying the Seven last Words 978-1-958237-78-6

A popular Diocesan preacher, Monsignor Jim Vlaum, shared his reflections on The Seven Last Words on Good Friday's Tre Ore at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York in 2023. Now in print, readers can contemplate the last words of Our Savior during Lent every year and discover anew the Passion and Death that changed the world over 2000 years ago. Timothy Cardinal Dolan of New York provides a preface to this book which is growing in popularity.
The Seven Last Words also encourage humility, compassion, and surrender to God's will--key elements of spiritual growth. By meditating on Jesus' final moments, believers are drawn closer to His suffering and love, inspiring them to live more Christ-centered lives.
Ultimately, praying the Seven Last Words deepens faith, strengthens spiritual resilience, and encourages believers to embody the virtues that Jesus demonstrated during His crucifixion.

Among the features of The Seven Last Words are:

• Printed in two colors
• Size 4-3/8" x 6-3/4"
• Durably sewn hardcover binding
• High-quality paper
• Readable type
• Conveniently sized to accommodate nightstand or purse
• Nihil Obstat
• Imprimatur

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Benefits of a small pocket-sized book:

1. Portability: A pocket-sized book is easy to carry anywhere, whether you're commuting, traveling, or just out for the day. Its compact size fits in pockets, purses, or backpacks without adding bulk, making it convenient for reading on the go.
2. Accessibility: With a small book always at hand, you can quickly access information, inspiration, or entertainment whenever you have a free moment. Whether it's a devotional, a notebook, or a story, it's readily available when you need it.
3. Minimal Distraction: Unlike digital devices, a pocket-sized book offers a focused reading experience without the interruptions of notifications, calls, or social media, helping you stay present and engaged with the content.
4. Personal Comfort: Holding and reading a small book is comfortable, especially for extended periods. Its lightweight and manageable size make it easier to flip through pages and read without strain.
5. Versatility: Pocket-sized books can serve many purposes, from daily planners and journals to inspirational quotes, prayers, or even quick-reference guides. Their versatility makes them useful tools for learning, reflection, or jotting down thoughts anytime, anywhere.

Among the Contents are:

• Preface
• Introduction
• The First Word...Father forgive them...
• The Second Word...Today you shall be with me in paradise
• The Third Word...Woman, behold your son
• The Fourth Word...My God, my God, why have you forsaken me
• The Fifth Word...I thirst
• The Sixth Word...Into your hands, I commend my Spirit
• The Seventh Word...It is finished
• Conclusion

Praying the Seven Last Words of Jesus is important for spiritual growth because it invites deep reflection on Christ's sacrifice, love, and mercy. These final words, spoken by Jesus as He endured the agony of the cross, offer profound lessons that guide believers in their spiritual journey.
Each of the Seven Last Words reveals a different aspect of Jesus' mission and His relationship with humanity. For example, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34) teaches the importance of forgiveness, even in the face of suffering. Reflecting on this encourages believers to practice forgiveness in their own lives, fostering inner peace and reconciliation with others.
Similarly, "It is finished" (John 19:30) highlights the completion of Jesus' mission to save humanity, reminding believers of the depth of God's love and the fulfillment of His promises. Praying with this phrase helps Catholics trust in God's plan and find hope, even in difficult times.