Thursday, September 24, 2026From the news

A Life Worth Living in Christ

Bishop Fulton Sheen's legacy reminds us that true life and eternal reward come through faithful devotion to Jesus, as promised in Scripture.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

John 10:10

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Philippians 1:21

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

2 Timothy 4:7-8

Dear friend, in a world that often feels heavy with uncertainty and heartache, it's a gentle comfort to hear stories of lives that pointed others toward hope. This week, news came from St. Louis that Bishop Fulton Sheen, the beloved Catholic media figure who captivated millions through his television program 'Life Is Worth Living,' is being beatified—a step closer in his tradition to sainthood. Sheen had a remarkable gift: with warmth and wisdom, he spoke directly to living rooms across America in the 1950s, reminding viewers that amid life's struggles, there is profound purpose and joy to be found in faith.

His show wasn't just entertainment; it was a ministry. Week after week, Sheen addressed the deepest questions of the human heart—why we suffer, how to find meaning, what makes existence truly valuable. He charmed audiences not with flashy production but with heartfelt conviction, drawing them to consider the eternal. In an era of post-war rebuilding and quiet desperation for many, his message landed like a balm: life is worth living because it's anchored in something greater than ourselves.

As we reflect on Sheen's legacy, let's turn to the unchanging words of Scripture, where Jesus Himself speaks to the heart of this truth. In John 10:10, our Savior declares, 'The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.' Oh, friend, isn't this the consolation we need today? The enemy whispers lies of despair, stealing our joy and killing our dreams, but Jesus offers abundance—not a fleeting high, but a full, overflowing life rooted in His presence. Sheen's broadcasts echoed this: life gains its worth not from circumstances, but from the One who gives it meaning.

Paul captures this beautifully in Philippians 1:21: 'For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.' Imagine living with such perspective. Sheen lived it out on screen, turning everyday topics into testimonies of Christ's sufficiency. Whether discussing family struggles or personal failures, he always circled back to Jesus as the center. In your own life, dear one, take heart—whatever weariness you're carrying this morning, let Christ redefine it. To live is Christ: our daily routines, our hidden prayers, our quiet kindnesses become sacred when offered to Him. And to die is gain, because He promises a homecoming far better than this world.

Sheen's path to this recognition mirrors the faithful endurance Paul describes in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.' Paul wasn't seeking earthly acclaim; his eyes were fixed on the Lord's reward. Sheen, too, pressed on through decades of preaching, writing, and shepherding souls, faithful to the call. And notice Paul's words: this crown is 'not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.' It's for you, beloved—for every believer who clings to Jesus amid trials.

What pain might you be acknowledging today? Perhaps the grind of routine has dulled your sense of purpose, or losses have made life feel fragile. Sheen's story gently nudges us: God uses willing hearts, even through television waves or our modern screens, to proclaim that life in Christ is worth every step. Let us remember, we're not alone in this race. The same grace that sustained Paul and inspired Sheen upholds you. In your workplace conversations, family dinners, or quiet moments of doubt, share the simple truth: Jesus makes life full.

Practically, dear friend, start small today. Read these verses aloud. Journal how Christ has brought abundance into your past week, even in small ways. Pray for opportunities to let your light shine, just as Sheen did. We're all called to this discipleship—not for titles or crowds, but for the joy of knowing Him and hearing 'Well done' from our righteous Judge. Rest in His nearness; He's with you, turning ordinary days into eternal investments.

Sheen's beatification may mark a milestone in one tradition, but the Bible points us all to the same hope: a life poured out for Christ yields imperishable reward. Take heart—your story, too, can charm the world toward the One who makes it all worthwhile.