Provident God

Holy Friday-the-Thirteeth

2012-01-13T03:47:00.000-08:00

Church of the Immaculate Conception
St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN

Wishing all a HOLY Friday-the-Thirteenth!
Our Lord and Savior is STILL in control!
~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!!!

Cathy

Begin With Thanksgiving

2012-01-07T08:48:00.000-08:00

Southern Illinois, 12/30/2011

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. ~~2Peter 3: 18~~

~~~~~

You can never say

Thank you to God too often

God is generous

All that I receive

Is generously given

I reply, thank you

~~~^j^~~

Thanks be to God!!

Cathy

Note: This picture has not been enhanced, only cropped. This is the glory of God!

Still Anticipating at 65

2011-12-15T04:22:00.000-08:00

Advent is such a beautiful season. It is time for renewal, it is especially a time for forgiveness, because brings this forgiveness o us in the shape of his Son. ~~Catherine de Hueck Doherty

On this the occasion of my 65th birthday, I just want to say that Advent is a wonderful time to be born. My whole life has been one of anticipation. And no season says it better than Advent!!!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

Cathy

Thank You!!

2011-12-13T04:07:00.000-08:00

"Prayer is an uplifting of the heart, a cry of gratitude and love."~~Saint Therese of Lisieux

During this Advent Season I don't think I take enough time to to this. But it's not too late!!! Relax and say, "Thank you!"

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

A Word To The Wise

2011-11-09T03:36:00.000-08:00

Make Christ more visible than ourselves.

~Blessed Maria Karlowska~

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

2011-11-03T04:22:00.000-07:00

He wants to be in you; he wants his breath to be your breath, his heart in your heart, and his soul in your soul.

~Saint John Eudes~~

This is my fervent desire. That I carry his Spirit with me always.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

Words of Encouragement

2011-10-03T05:05:00.001-07:00

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, a photo by Michele.oliveira82 on Flickr.

"When I am incapable of praying, I want to keep telling Jesus that I love him. It's not difficult, and it keeps the fire burning"
~~Saint Therese of Lisieux~~

On this the feast day of dear Saint Therese I find these words most encouraging!!!

~~~^j^~~

Thanks be to God!

Catherine Therese

Lesson Learned

2011-09-29T04:26:00.000-07:00

Try, my daughter, never to perform your actions with crooked intentions. What would it avail you to do better than someone else. If it is from the motive of being admired? ~~Saint Mother Theodore Guerin~~

Indeed what would it avail me. I need to remind myself that the only one I must please in this life is Almighty God and the praise and glory of others mean nothing in the end.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

Words of Encouragement!

2011-09-22T04:55:00.000-07:00

Let your heart delight in the love your God has for you, personally, individually.

~Saint Katherine Drexel~

~~~^j^~~~

Personally and individually he LOVES me!

Thanks be to God!!!

Cathy

Simple Justice

2011-09-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

It is necessary to be just, that is to say, to have no preference for [anyone], nor show disgust for any of them. ~Saint Mother Theodore Guerin~

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

Cathy

Keep Silence With God

2011-09-05T05:25:00.000-07:00

In order to hear the voice of God, one has to have silence in one's soul and to keep silence;not a gloomy silence, but an interior silence; that is to say, recollection in God. One can speak a great deal without breaking silence; and, on the contrary, one can speak little and be constantly breaking silence.

~Saint Faustina Kawalska~

~~~~~~~

A call to silence. Hmmm, this is something I have not been able to achieve. I think I love to hear the sound of my own voice. I have so much to say, and I have to admit, little of it is of value. I think I must be that gong that makes no music in the midst of the music made by the glorious voice of God. And perhaps I have this need to avoid silence because I fear God's voice. What will he ask me to do!?! And again, working to achieve silence requires effort. I am LAZY! I do need help and the assistance can only come from God in whom I MUST rely! I must rely on the Holy Spirit to achieve this and again I must practice it. It seems in this quote by Saint Faustina I have found another call to try again!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!
Cathy

Padre Pio

2011-09-03T06:20:00.001-07:00

No pilgrim soul can worthily love God. But when a Soul does everything possible and trust in divine mercy, why would Jesus reject such a spirit? Has he not commanded us to love God according to our strength? If you have given and consecrated everything to God, why be afraid? ~Saint Padre Pio~

Padre Pio, a photo by uCatholic on Flickr.

~~~^j^~~~

Knowing this and having it reaffirmed I say,

Thanks be to God!!!

Cathy

What Else Is Left But HOPE!

2011-08-09T04:25:00.000-07:00

There are times when the events of the world, though not directly impacting my life, seem to be overwhelming. There is the riot and looting in London, the death of 31 in the helicopter crash, an economy and nation in flux and teenagers on the lam from a shooting. Oh my goodness, it could cause one to despair! And then I read this:

But our hope is in the Providence of God, which has protected us until the present, and which will provide, somehow, for our future needs. ~Saint Mother Theodore Guerin~

Again Hope should reign in our hearts. For God will not desert us! I can attest to that for in my life he has rescued me innumerable time.

And too Pope John XXIII tell us:

Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do.

If I turn to my favorite Psalm I hear this:

LORD, you have probed me, you know me:

2you know when I sit and stand;

you understand my thoughts from afar.

3You sift through my travels and my rest;

with all my ways you are familiar.

4Even before a word is on my tongue,

LORD, you know it all.

5Behind and before you encircle me

and rest your hand upon me.

6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,

far too lofty for me to reach.

7Where can I go from your spirit?

From your presence, where can I flee?

8If I ascend to the heavens, you are there;

if I lie down in Sheol, there you are.

9If I take the wings of dawn

and dwell beyond the sea,

10Even there your hand guides me,

your right hand holds me fast.

11If I say, “Surely darkness shall hide me,

and night shall be my light”—

12Darkness is not dark for you,

and night shines as the day.

Darkness and light are but one.

~Psalm 139~

Finally, if I would just listen more intently to the teaching of our Savior, I would hear loudly and clearly, "BE NOT AFRAID!"

And so it is today, I will leave the house and venture into a world that seem so out of control and journey with the Master. For He is the one who is really in control!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

St. Thomas More

2011-08-05T04:50:00.001-07:00

St. Thomas More, a photo by Fr. Peter on Flickr.

A simple prayer offered today by St. Thomas More:

Give me, good Lord, such a love for you that I will love nothing in a way that displeases you, and I will love everything for your sake.

To that I say a sincere, "Amen."

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

Sunrise Reflection

2011-08-02T04:52:00.000-07:00

Why have you brought us up out of Egypt, to bring us to this wretched place? It is no place for grain, or figs, or vines, or pomegranates; and there is no water to drink.
~~Numbers 20:5~~

^j^

Isn' it odd how sometimes the place we absolutely knew was the place for us--where God wants us to be--ends up being a little more complicated? We wonder, has God changed his mind, or does he want us to be miserable?

It's a difficult situation to be in, as the Israelites discovered in the desert. With patience and an open heart--to the needs of others, not just our own--God's will can become clear again.
Until the next time, at least.

^j^

Lord, when I begin to feel burned-out, help me seek your loving presence wherever I am.

A Catholic Woman's Book of Days
Amy Weborn
~~~~~

And so this is where I find myself today. It's been many months since I have visited Amy and her words in this treasure she has written. Lead by Providence I am sure, I returned here today found these words were speaking to me. Though certainly not miserable, I am facing decisions that are most uncertain. As I enter the stage of life when there are few who require my daily nurturing and instruction, I am faced with the reality that now I really do have to take care of myself.

I don't even know where to begin. So I will seek guidance from others so that decisions can be made with good judgement. I will trust that my wellbeing is in the hands of the Almighty. And again that I will continue this journey with my constant companion, Providence.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

Catherine of Siena

2011-07-27T15:15:00.001-07:00

Catherine of Siena, a photo by saints_c on Flickr.

Jesus, every day you give u this food, showing us yourself in the sacrament of the altar...And what has done this? Your mercy. ~~ St. Catherine of Siena~~

I saw the living body of Christ last night as we gathered for the healing Mass. It was compassion, caring, generosity, courage and love at its best. The church was full. As we continue to pray for "H" and the healing of this tumor, it is good to know that there are those who see the value of the healing power of the Holy Spirit. As "H" allowed several hundred persons, family and friends, to lay on hands on him my own faith allowed me to believe that healing was moving in the midst of all of us.

My fervent prayer is that the Holy Spirit bless "H" abundantly and heal him completely. Will you join me in that prayer? Not just for "H" but for us all. Indeed, that the mercy of our Savior may be on all of us.

God is GOOD! All the time!!!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!

Cathy

Miracles

2011-07-26T03:58:00.000-07:00

"ANY ONE who likes, therefore, may call my belief in God merely mystical; the phrase is not worth fighting about. But my belief that miracles have happened in human history is not a mystical belief at all; I believe in them upon human evidences as I do in the discovery of America. Upon this point there is a simple logical fact that only requires to be stated and cleared up. Somehow or other an extraordinary idea has arisen that the disbelievers in miracles consider them coldly and fairly, while believers in miracles accept them only in connection with some dogma. The fact is quite the other way. The believers in miracles accept them (rightly or wrongly) because they have evidence for them. The disbelievers in miracles deny them (rightly or wrongly) because they have a doctrine against them." ~GKC: 'Orthodoxy,' IX.

As I was considering this morning how I should proceed today I was guided to the words of G.K. Chesterton on Facebook. It's marvelous how the hand of God inserts into our lives just what we need when we need it.

For today I am praying for a miracle. There are hundreds today who will be praying for a specific miracle.

I believe in miracles!!! They happen everyday to everyone. Just a short 5 years ago Ron was to have surgery on his back for a herniated disc with nerve impingement. He suffered severe pain for nearly 18 months and though not looking forward to the surgery he was anticipating it with hope. The morning of the surgery, after Mass, Father anointed him while family and friends laid hands on him. Surgery was to be at 9:00 a.m. The Dr. came in to see Ron before surgery and do what Dr.s do. He looked at Ron and said, "I can't do the surgery today."

I said, "I that's not a funny joke."

He said, "It's not. I can't do the surgery, because I cannot illicit pain. If he no longer has the pain and I do the surgery I could cause even more injury and pain that he would have the rest of his life."

Yes, that's what he said. He told Ron that if he found that the condition returned he should call and he would make arrangements for the surgery. Since that day Ron has had no pain in his back. Yes, it was a miracle.

So now I'm hoping you will join us in the prayer.

H is a young man in our parish who will be going yet again to Memphis for treatment of brain cancer. He and his family have made the trips before and will again as long as they can. Chris has touched the lives of many. He is the son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, student, former student, athlete, artist. He is "everyman."

A Mass for healing will be said in his honor tonight at 6:30 p.m. CDT at Saint John the Baptist Church here in Newburgh. If you cannot join us physically please stop and pray for the healing of this young man an all who suffer and need a miracle.

May God bless you all today with a miracle. Yes, a miracle!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

Cathy

Sir Thomas More

2011-06-15T05:24:00.001-07:00

Sir Thomas More, a photo by XhowidisappearX on Flickr.

Whatever our bodies may be doing, we should a the same time continually life up our minds to God which is the most acceptable form of prayer. For no matter which way we may turn our steps, as long as our minds are turned to God, we clearly are not turned away from him who is present everywhere. ~~Saint Thomas More~~

I find these words comforting today. I often find myself busy and don't have or take the time for quiet reflection. But reading these words of Saint Thomas More bring me consolation. If the purpose of my action is done in conjunction with the love of God it is a prayer. If anxiety or worry cause me discomfort, I can find consolation in the action of offering it to God in prayer. Oh my, what treasure this is!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

Remember, Lord, the fallen
Who died in fields of war,
In flaming clouds, in screaming crowds,
On streets that are no more,
That we today might waken
And greet this day in peace
With grateful prayer for those who bear
The storms that never cease.

Remember friends and stranger,
And those forgotten now,
Who names are known to you alone,
Before whose love we bow
And ask that you surround them
With mercy's endless light
That they may live, and we forgive
The foe they went to fight

Remember, Lord, the living,
Who bear the pain of loss
A death she died who stood beside
Her Son upon the cross.

Remember all your children
The dead and those who weep,
And make us one beneath the sun
Where love will ever sleep.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

May the Month of Mary

2011-05-26T04:42:00.000-07:00

A wonderful quote by Saint Augustine

Christ's mother carried him in her womb; may we carry him in our hearts. The Virgin became pregnant with the Incarnation of Christ; may our hearts become pregnant with faith in Christ. She brought forth the Savior; may our souls bring forth salvation and praise.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Ladders

2011-05-24T04:08:00.000-07:00

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

My reflection today is one suggested at Woodlands Home. God's Providence as witnessed through the eyes of those around us.

Blessings From Above!

2011-05-23T04:44:00.000-07:00

The wonders of God's power.

South Dakota, 2010

"Christ's mother carried him in her womb; may we carry him in our hearts The Virgin became pregnant with the incarnation of Christ; may our hearts become pregnant with faith in Christ. She brought forth the Savior; my our souls bring forth salvation and praise. ~Saint Augustine~

My initiation into motherhood happened 42 years ago today! Our oldest was born. She has been a delight and a joy! Her gifts and enthusiasm for life have given me cause to thank God heartily endlessly for her and all her brothers and sister. Treasures all!!!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

Sunday of Celebrations!

2011-04-30T18:34:00.000-07:00

Pope John Paul II, a photo by Loci Lenar on Flickr.

In light of Mary, the Church sees in the face of women the reflection of a beauty which mirrors the loftiest sentiments of which the human heart is capable; the self-offering totality of love; the strength that is capable of bearing the great sorrows; limitless fidelity and tireless devotion to work; the ability to combine penetrating intuition with words of support and encouragement.
Pope John Paul II
Redemptoris Mater, 1987

Celebration of many celebrations. May begins with the month dedicated to the Mother of God. It's Divine Mercy Sunday. And finally, it is the dain in which Pope John Paul II is beatified.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

The Truth That Sets Us Free

2011-04-14T05:20:00.001-07:00

April 29-Saint Catherine of Siena, a photo by -Sancta Maria, Mater Dei~ on Flickr.

This reflection was offered yesterday in the Magnificat. To me it is a treasure. It's here because I don't want to lose it.

Saint Catherine of Siena says:

It is easy to see Christ's patient forbearance...in the face of our sins, how he seems to pretend not to see... What great patience, that he disregards the wrong done him! On the cross he hears the clamor of those who first shouted, "Crucify him!" and now challenge him to come down from the cross. And he cries, "Father, forgive them!" He does not move when they shout that he should come down, but stays there till the end.

Then he joyously shouts, "It is finished!" Yes, those seem to be sorrowful words, but they were words of joy to that soul aflame and consumed in the fire of divine charity, the soul of the incarnate Word, God's Son. It is as if the gentle Jesus wanted to say, "I have completely fulfilled what was written of me. Fulfilled too is my painful desire to redeem the human race. I am happy, exultant, that I have finished this suffering. I have fulfilled the commission given me by my father, a commission I so longed to accomplish..."

Shame, shame on our human pride, our self complacency, our self-centeredness, when we see how good God has been to us, how many gifts and graces he had given us--and not because he has to but because he wants to. Obtuse as we are, we seem not to see or feel this love so hot that, if we were made of stone, it would long ago have burst us open!... Unhappy me! I can see no other reason except that the eye of our understanding is not focused on the tree of the cross. For there is revealed such warm love, such gently persuasive teaching has torn open his very body, has shed his life's blood and with that blood has baptized and bathed us. We can and should make use of the baptism every day with continual remembrance and great love. ~~Saint Catherin of Siena~~

Saint Catherine of Siena (+1380), Doctor of the Church, was a Dominican, stigmatist, and papal counselor.

Most eye-opening. A lesson here to be learned by all, especially me!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Finding Ourselves in Public Worship

2011-04-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Church of the Immaculate Conception

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN

In the book Lent and Easter, Wisdom from Thomas Merton, I was called to reflect on this subject, Finding Ourselves in Public Worship. He says,

Now it is precisely in the liturgy, the public prayer of the Christian Assembly, that the Christian discovers the secret of his own inviolable solitude, and learns to respect the solitude of his brother and sister while at the same time sharing it...

Christian persons find themselves and their brothers and sisters in the communal celebration of the mystery of Christ. But what is manifested, proclaimed, celebrated and and consummated in the liturgy is not my personality or your personality; it is the personality of Christ the Lord, who when two or three are gathered together in His Name, is present in the midst of us. This presence of Christ in the liturgical celebration leads to our discovery and declaration of our own sacred and spiritual self.

It struck me as I read this that, indeed, I gather with my Family in Christ as a community. And though we are all there with the purpose of praising the glory of God through Jesus Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, only I know and understand who I am in relation to my Savior. Though we celebrate together our redemption in the saving act of the Eucharist, I am still truly alone with my Savior in prayer and celebration. I cannot truly understand someone else and their relationship with the Almighty. And yet we are called to communion one with another because we do share the same belief in the Risen Lord. Yes, I am alone with Christ in the midst of others!

To paraphrase Scott Hahn in his book, The Lamb's Supper, at the consecration it truly is when heaven comes to earth! Jesus, our Lord and Savior is truly in our midst and again he offers himself to me as always in love.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Gathering Together To Meet Christ

2011-03-21T04:39:00.000-07:00

The topic of this reflection in Lent and Easter , Wisdom from Thomas Merton is sacred liturgy.

"Liturgy is a work in which the Church collaborates with the divine Redeemer, renewing on her altars the sacred mysteries which are the life and salvation of mankind, uttering again the life-giving words that are capable of saving and transforming our souls., blessing again the sick and the possessed, and preaching His Gospel to the poor." (page 24)

The question I am asked to reflect upon is, "What do you love about celebrating the liturgy with your faith community?:

My faith community is "family." We gather to share our life experience. We offer each other support. We are on the Journey and we know it. It is one of life's treasures given and accepted as reality! For me it is affirming my belief that I have been redeemed, once for all by our Savior Jesus Christ. It is a celebration of life and eternal life. I have a "genealogy" that takes me to the root of salvation and I am privileged to share that with other believers in praising God.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Peter's Denial

2011-03-19T04:48:00.001-07:00

Pati de la morera (Morus niger) en el castell d'Olite ("Patio de la morera", "Courtyard of the mulberry tree (Morus niger) in the Castle of Olite") a photo by Bilbopolit on Flickr.

The reflection today comes from The Women of the Passion by Kathleen Murphy. She invites me to enter the courtyard where Peter is asked to affirm his loyalty to Jesus and instead denies him three times.

All Matthew's Jewish listeners and readers would have understood the deep significance of the fact that the denial was threefold, that it became more adamant each time, and that the final witness to it was a man. Having been brought up in the Jewish culture, they would have known that the testimony of a woman would have been viewed as implausible. The word of a man posed no problems. One man's evidence was believed to be more trustworthy than that of a multitude of women (page 10).

I have chosen to reflect on this short passage not so much because of Peter's denial but because it depicts a reality that even today is true. It suggests that the marginalized, women, children and even men, have no voice. And then I am asked, "[Am I] genuinely committed to living the gospel consciously, not just during the few weeks of Lent but holistically and through the whole of life's journey?" (page 13) Am I willing to leave my comfort zone and take a stand for these children of God?

I want to say that I am consciously living the Gospel every day of the year. I hope that I can continue to be a witness to the values Christ has instilled in me. I am like Peter though. I have failed on many levels. I do enjoy my comfort zone! It is hard for me to take risks. I am frightened! But you know, when I least expect it the Holy Spirit does guide me in the right direction. There is still a lot of Peter in me. But, through the grace of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit I am able to reflect on the failure and find solace in the fact that I am love by God as one of his creations and am forgiven. And being forgiven I will again step forward and do God's will.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

A Penitent Heart

2011-03-15T04:39:00.000-07:00

I read and was amazed by the clarity with which I was able to understand today's reflection. I've been struggling with the reflections until today.

Thomas Merton says in Lent and Easter Wisdom from Thomas Merton :

"The Call to 'do penance' is based not on the fact that penance will keep us trim, but on the fact that 'the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.' Our penance--metanoia--is our response to the proclamation of the Gospel; message, the Kerygma which announces our salvation if we will hear God and harden not our hearts. The function of penance and self-denial is then contrition, or the 'breaking up' of that hardness of heart which prevents us from understanding God's command to love and from obeying it effectively."

I have known that penance is a reparation for my sins...but somehow three Our Fathers and three Hail Marys and a good Act of Contrition just seemed too easy, simple, not quite as demanding as I considered it should be. And then I read, "The function of penance and self-denial is then contrition, or the 'breaking up' of that hardness of heart which prevents us from understanding God's command to love and from obeying it effectively." God's command to me is to love and obey the Gospel. That is not simple, easy and it is demanding.

So when I write about the Journal question today I do so in humility. For God is good and has shown me the true meaning of penance through Thomas Merton. I've been asked, as part of the Journey today, to share my last act of "charity" and why I did it.

Yesterday one of our patients, an elderly lady, arrived to see the doctor in a state of weakness caused by several days of epistaxis (bleeding from the nose). She had been to the emergency room twice for it, the most recent visit that morning. She was exhausted and very anxious. For the first time in 12 years I met her husband. She always came alone for she drove herself. Yesterday she could not. This lady who was always neatly dressed came in her nightgown and robe. Laying her head on the table she looked weary and exhausted. She was frightened and when the bleeding hadn't stopped she took out the packing. It was annoying and she didn't think it was working. When she went back to the ER they put in a drain and made an appointment for her to see a specialist, but not until today. After seeing the doctor, who consulted with another doctor who was the otolaryngologist (ENT) she will be seeing today, he was able to reassure her that with the treatment the other doctor would provide the bleeding would soon stop. Be assured that the patient was not hemorrhaging or having frank bleeding. She was frightened because she was so weak.

As she was getting into the wheelchair, she said, "Cathy, pray for me." A assured her I would. But what she said after that made me thank God for her and her presence in my life. She said, "Thank you. You always offer me such consolation when I come here."

Praying for others is an act of charity. I often forget that because it is an easy way to "care" for others. There is no monetary value. There is no physical labor required no special equipment. But is is the most powerful tool I own! And I did it out of love and concern for this dear lady. It became a time for me when my hardened heart became softer and more tender because of this encounter with Christ. (Matthew 25: 31-40)

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Compunction

2011-03-13T15:54:00.000-07:00

Thomas Merton a photo by jimforest on Flickr.

I've been reflecting on the medication from Thursday now for three days. First, I haven't heard the word "compunction" for years!!! And then I tried to remember how it was that I had learned about it. Well, I can't remember. So, I'm thinking this is a new lesson I need to learn.

According to Thomas Merton...

Compunction is a baptism of sorrow, in which the tears of the penitent are a psychological but also deeply religious purification, preparing and disposing him for the sacramental waters of baptism or for the sacrament of penance.

He goes on to say...

The acceptance of reality is always a liberation from the burden of illusion that we strive to justify by our errors and our sins. Compunction is a necessary sorrow, but it is followed by joy and relief because it wins for us one of the greatest blessing: the light of truth and grace of humility.

The question posed for the reflection asks, "What are the illusions in my life that I accept as my reality?"

I tried considering things in my life that I see as reality that are just illusions. An analogy came to mind this morning. I was reminded of the time I had a facial. My goodness it was wonderful and relaxing. It lasted an hour and I really felt better afterward. The illusion, to me, is that I really look so much better and that I might indeed just look a few years younger. The reality is I am still 64 and younger I am not. The reality too is that I did feel better.

So compunction is the facial. Time must be taken to cleanse and refresh. This may not be as pleasant as the facial had been but it is required of me if I am to experience the joy of true penance for my sins. This means I must be serious about my sins...Yes, admit it you SIN, Cathy. You are not so holy! In many ways I am the Pharisee In the front of church thanking God for my "holiness," when I should be the sinner in the back asking for forgiveness.

I'm still sure I understand it completely but at least I've spent time seriously reflection on it. More time in reflection might just bring about even more understanding!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

The Unnamed Woman

2011-03-12T06:16:00.000-08:00

Today one of my reflections has come to me from The Women of the Passion by Kathleen M. Murphy. The first chapter of the book relates to Matthew's Gospel about the "Unnamed Woman Who Anointed Jesus at Bethany" (Matthew 26: 10-11) It places me in the house of Simon the Leper. I can witness the entire event. Jesus is anointed by a woman who is obviously an outsider and worse yet a sinner. She enters without invitation and then to the shock and dismay of the other guests bathes Jesus in beautifully aromatic oil. It's expensive and even to the Apostles it seems to have been wasted for it could have been sold and the money used for the "cause."

But Jesus aware of this, said to them, "Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a beautiful thing to me. For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. (Mt 26:10-11)

The illustration here is meant, I think, to cause reflection on how, in my life, I have cared for the poor, neglected, or marginalized. Do I spend more time in acquiring my "wants" and fail to consider the "needs" of others?

I am often saddened by the tragedies in this world. Though I contribute regularly to causes for the poor and marginalized and pray for them, is that all I can do. I guess what I need is guidance from the Holy Spirit to lead me to better see the road I must take in becoming more sensitive to the needs of others personally.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

My Journey with Thomas Merton

2011-03-10T03:07:00.001-08:00

Thomas Merton a photo by jimforest on Flickr.

This Lent I am spending time daily with Lent and Easter, Wisdom from Thomas Merton, compiled by Montaldo at the Merton Institute for Contemplative Living and published by Ligori Press. There are a number of texts in this series and all are good. But I chose to start here. The source of the reflections come form his book of essays Seasons of Celebrations.

Lent is our "Holy Spring" as Catholics and as part of the journey I have been asked to keep a Lenten Journal. This is the beginning. Thomas Merton says, "...Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten fast, is a day of happiness, a Christian feast. It cannot be otherwise, as if forms part of the great Easter cycle...Lent is not a season of punishment so much as one of healing." (pg. 2)

And so I am asked: "In what ways do you consider Lent to be a 'a season of celebration?'"

As I thought about this I remember my childhood and the Lenten practices we share as family. There was of course the standard "offering up" of CANDY. Now we seldom got candy at my house except at Christmas or Easter, but know that I could not have it still instilled in me the focus on what is important in our lives. OH! Don't forget, no ice cream. Yes, ice cream was always in the freezer! It was and is a celebration! I celebrated then as now how we did more things as family. There was evening Bible reading. Wednesday night was benediction with a short homily and Friday night was the Stations of the Cross. I really never felt punished during this season, but I was challenged more to behave in a manner that was more charitable.

Today, that challenge to celebrate is considerably more difficult for me. I don't have Mom and Dad to monitor my journey. They aren't here to nudge me in the right direction. I have to rely on my own will to "celebrate" the journey and traditions that bring us to ultimate celebration, the triumph of the cross! I am guided through Holy scripture, taken by the hand and lead to the ultimate celebration at the Resurrection, the Day that saved the world and gained for us all Eternal Salvation!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Lenten Journey with Providence

2011-03-08T03:44:00.000-08:00

Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, is the day many celebrate with feasts and celebration before the austerity of Lent begins. It's been a time for me when I cleanse the house of all the temptations that would cause me to break my Lenten Fast. That usually means ridding the house of ice cream, cookies, candy, and chocolate. For you see, I always thought that getting rid of the temptation would allow me to be better able to say, "no" to that which I desire.

This year I had a revelation. I will not get rid of all those things that tempt me. I will leave them in place to assure my resolve. Ice cream is still in the freezer and cookies are still on the shelf, especially all the Girl Scout cookies...

Let the temptation remain. Through the grace of God and the strength of the Holy Spirit I hope to prevail over these temptations.

"And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting my not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you." ~Matthew 6: 16-18

So this evening I will have a wonderful dinner just as always, without the usual gluttony that occurs when I try to get eat all the temptation before tomorrow. I will make every effort to relax, pray, and avoid the temptation that will continue to be there. This will be my resolve this Lent. Perhaps, I'll even be more successful in this fast.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

And Valiently She Went Home...

2011-03-06T11:25:00.000-08:00

Sister Mary Alice Zander, SP with

Sister Mary Mundy, SP at small gathering

of Providence Associates of SW IN

Yesterday a gentle woman of Providence went home. After suffering from cancer since 2009 she completed her Journey of Providence. Sister Mary Alice Zander was and will be a model of tenderness, generosity and love. She showed us how to live with adversity. She lived her faith in the Almighty. It has been my privilege to have met her and to have experienced her devotion to discipleship in her work with the Providence Associates.

Sr. Joanna, Sr Mary Alice, Sr. Mary, Fr. Bernie, Connie, Ann Kevin, Cathy

Sr. Dorothy and Sr. Diane

September, 2010

Let us beg our Lord to choose for us
that which will unite us more closely to him;
and beseech him for the light, the grace,
the strength we heed to do in all things
his adorable will.
~Saint Mother Theodore Guerin~

~~^j^~~

Thanks be to God!

Voice of Wisdom

2011-01-13T03:51:00.000-08:00

I will remember how St. Peter, at a blast of wind, began to sink because of his lack of faith, and I will do as he did: Call upon Christ and pray to him for help. And then I trust he will place his holy hand on me and in the stormy seas hold me up from drowning.

~Saint Thomas More~

~~~*~~~

If it is true for Saint Peter and St. Thomas More, it will be no different for me. I too will be lifted up and emboldened. I will see that all things are possible for those who believe and I will believe. I will hope!!!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Thought For the Day

2011-01-10T04:10:00.000-08:00

In our daily work, let us practice charity, affection, and humility through the accomplishment of our normal duties, and then let us come to the feet of Jesus with all that. He will know how to see all, to accept all, and will transform what needs to be improved in us.

~~Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur~~

So today, I will try to make myself more aware of those around me. When it is easy to be uncharitable towards another let me respond with kindness and generosity. And in so doing I will be open to the changes required in me!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Wisdom of G. K. Chesterton

2010-12-22T04:11:00.000-08:00

This is one of the most recent reflections I have used this Advent Season and I want to share it with you. It comes from the book, Advent and Christmas, Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton edited by The Center for the Study of . S. Lewis and Friends.

It is commonly in a somewhat cynical sense that Men have said, "Blessed is she that expecteth nothing, for he shall not be disappointed." It was in a wholly happy and enthusiastic sense that Saint Francis said, "Blessed is he that expecteth nothing, for he shall enjoy everything." It was by this deliberate idea of starting from zero, from the dark of nothingness of his own deserts, that he did come to enjoy them.
SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI

The Gift of God

This is what I have seen to be good. It is fitting to eat and drink and find enjoyment in all the tois with which one toils under the sun the few days of the life God gives us; for this is ou lot. Like wise all to whom God give wealth and possessions and whom he enables to enjoy them, and to accept their lot and find enjoyment in their toil--this is the gift of God. For they will scarcely brood over the days of their lives,because God keeps them occupied with the joy of their hearts.
Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

Prayer

Lord, our days are short, but we have done nothing to deserve even the few years of live that you give us. Teach is to be grateful for small things--food and drink and work--by remembering you servant Saint Francis, who truly expected nothing and enjoyed everything he had.

Advent Action

Each time you sit down to eat today, pause a little long than you normally do. Meditate on the words from Ecclesiastes, "it is fitting to eat and drink and find enjoyment." allow yourself to fill with thanks, to be thank-full.

May you all continue to enjoy this Holy Season and may your Christmas be one of happiness and thanksgiving to our Creator who loves us without end!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

This and other books in this series Advent and Lent are published by Liguori.

Simply Profound!

2010-12-04T15:01:00.000-08:00

Saint Meinrad Archabbey

February, 2010

Simple, yet profound.

A single opinion cannot overturn the unanimous tradition of the
whole Church, which has spread to the ends of the earth.
~Saint John of Damascus~

This is the Church that has the Wisdom of the Holy Spirit as its guide!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Advent Offering Today

2010-11-30T03:42:00.000-08:00

Winter, 2009

I want to share with you this Christmas Novena sent to me by the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology.

It is said that this novena was traditionally prayed 15 times a day from the Feast of Saint Andrew, the
Apostle, November 30, until Christmas. Praying it along with my other prayers seems a reasonable way to incorporate this into my Advent devotions. And as it was offered to me so I offer it to you.

Hail and blessed be
The hour and moment
In which the Son of God
was born of the
Most pure Virgin Mary,
At midnight, in Bethlehem,
In the piercing cold.
I beseech Thee,
O my God,
To hear my prayers and
grant my desires,
[there mention your request]
Through the merits of
Our Savior Jesus Christ,
and of His Blessed Mother.
Amen.

Wishing you all a grand day and may all your prayers be fulfilled in their asking!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Advent, the Journey

2010-11-28T15:26:00.000-08:00

The Journey Begins on Page ONE

It is a grand time of the year. Again I am offered a chance to reflect on the past and pursue the future in the celebration of Advent. One of the books I like to use during this season is Advent and Christmas ~Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton, edited by the Center for the Study of C. S. Lewis and Friends.

It is currently said that hope goes with youth, and lends to your its wings of a butterfly; but I fancy that hope is the last gift given to man, and the only gift not given to youth...But the power of hoping through everything, the knowledge that the soul survives its adventures, that great inspiration comes to the middle-aged; God has kept that good wine until now. IT is from the backs of the elderly gentlemen that the wings of the butterfly should burst.
Charles Dickens: Last of the Great Men
G. K. Chesterton

It is a great source of inspiration and it challenges me to actively enter into the season. This is a season of hope and that is what I have found to be most important to me of late. And so it is that I look to Advent seeing it as a season full of Hope.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

The Rosary

2010-11-12T04:26:00.000-08:00

The rosary is my favorite prayer. A marvelous prayer! Marvelous in its simplicity and in its depth. In the prayer we repeat many times the words that the Virgin Mary heard from the Archangel, and from her kinswoman Elizabeth. (Address, Rome, 1978) ~~Pope John Paul II, His Essential Wisdom, Edited by Carol Kelly-Gangi

~~~^j^~~~

My favorite prayer too.

Thanks be to God!

True Value!

2010-10-23T05:49:00.000-07:00

So valuable to heaven is the dignity of the human soul

that every member of the human race has a guardian

angel from the moment the person begins to be.

~Saint Jerome~

The question I ask myself today is what value do I place on my life. Do I even understand that I have worth? Do I ever consider that I am a treasure and that the way I live my life either corrodes or polishes this treasure?

Consider that silver teapot you were given by your grandmother. It is beautiful. But the trouble is it requires diligence to take care of it. If it sits too long in the air without use it tarnishes. So, you have to get the silver polish and clean it until it sparkles. You are the one given the responsibility to oversee and protect it since your grandmother loved you.

You see I am a treasure. I am that teapot. When I neglect to follow the ways of God, I become tarnished. I forget that I have value and worth. In order to repair any damage or to remove the tarnish that I have acquired through the neglect of my soul I must take out that "polish" and restore the shine I once had.

How do I do that? I know what it is that causes the problem. I avoid it. If because of circumstance beyond my control I cannot avoid it, I must apply a thick coat of prayer that will be a buffer. Then in order to repair what has been broken I ask for forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

I see that my guardian angel is at all times my "buffer." She often, without my realizing it, diminishes the tarnish by guiding me past difficulty. I truly believe this and as I reflect on who I am and where I have been I see that this gift from God for my journey here on earth is part of my treasury. I know that I am responsible for who I am and who I am becoming, but it is good to know that I have partner that will help me reduce the tarnish and renew the luster of this life I have been given.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cleaning Out Small Spaces...

2010-10-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

Is it as hard for you as it is for me to part with things? I love a good mystery. Any book really but mysteries in particular. I love Agatha Christi, Mary Higgins Clark, and Anne Perry. I am especially fond of Diane Mott Davidson who writes delicious mysteries set in my native Colorado. She takes me home as I sit in my chair here in Indiana.

Giving up or parting with things I find dear is challenging. The excuse I'll read it again is just that, an excuse. Indeed, I've had all these books for years and I've not returned to any of them. I simply buy the next. So why save them.?

I read the verse offered by Saint Francis de Sales and find myself asking, "How do I bring forth good fruit when I do not share what I have to offer?" So if I hoard these books and no one has the opportunity to avail themselves of them then what good are they? So I intend to take them to the library.

The same could be true of my soul. If I simply do nothing, if I hoard my talent, time, or treasure what good are they to me. If I never intend to use them they become worthless and a terrible waste. So clean out the small spaces I will. I will share what I have with others as Providence guides. I will not hoard those things he has provided but share them so that I can "bring forth good works seasonalby and with discretion."

~~~^j^~~~

Wishing all a grand weekend

and

Thanks be to God!

Words of Saint Mother Theodore

2010-09-22T03:52:00.000-07:00

Besides the admirable union that exists between
persons of different nationalities, of dispositions so
opposite, some well informed, others without
education, there is also among the Sisters a great
spirit of faith, of piety and a confidence in God
which goes as far, I believe, as it an go.
~Saint Mother Theodore Guerin~

In these words I find encouragement, even hope that as a nation we can still be that melting pot of nationalities that can come together in union. Yes, as one so that we will continue to grow as a nation that learns from those who come to share this land with us. We are privileged to be a country that has evolved because of the beauty of individual cultures woven into this tapestry we call home. We become a people of understanding and compassion when we allow ourselves to learn from others who seem different that we are.

~~^j^~~

Thanks be to God!

Generosity of Providence

2010-09-16T04:23:00.000-07:00

I can say that when reflecting on these words of Saint Mother Theodore I find no flaw in them. For I have found, in my Journey of Providence, what she has said is true.. On the days most gray and bleak I can look back and see the hand of Providence as my guide.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

On Holy Ground

2010-09-15T04:55:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity again to spend time at The Woods, that is Saint Mary-of-the Woods. And there to tread on holy ground. Yes, we followed the path of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin upon her arrival there nearly 160 years ago. Having read about her journey in Mother Theodore Guerin, Journals and Letters, it was a wonderful experience to share it with others on this Providence Journey. Sharing with the Sisters of Providence who live Saint Mother Theodore's mission and those of us who are learning to live it as Associates I was emboldened and excited to have been on Holy Ground. The story of Mother Theodore is a true adventure! An adventure worth sharing!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Humility

2010-08-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Providential Joy

2010-08-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

The Sacredness of God's Handiwork

How do we live in creation? Do we relate to it as a place full of "things" we can use for whatever need we want to fulfill and whatever goal we wish to accomplish? Or do we see creation first of all as a sacramental reality, a sacred space where God reveals to us the immense beauty of the Divine?

As long as we only use creation, we cannot recognize its sacredness because we are approaching it as if we were its owners. But when we relate to all that surrounds us as created by the same God who created us and as the place where God appears to us and calls us to worship and adoration, then we are able to recognize the sacredness of all God's handiwork.
Henri J. M. Nouwen
Bread For the Journey

As I read these words of Henri Nouwen and listened to the words sung by Michael Card I was reminded how much I take this glorious world for granted. Instead of expecting the roses to bloom and spread their beautiful petals, I should be in awe of the beauty!!! It's the glory of God in our midst! I should be jubilant in this garden. I should be singing joyfully!!! And so I will!!!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Healing...

2010-08-07T07:40:00.000-07:00

When I hear the phrase, “Jesus saves,” I think of poorly lettered billboards on many a country road. I also remember an unpleasant incident when I was buttonholed by a street evangelist who asked: “Are you saved, brother?” But these unhappy experiences of insensitivity cannot change what is central for me, as for every Christian: Jesus does save. (Francis McNutt, The Word Among Us)

This article, Savior and Healer, is wonderful and I ask you all to visit The Word Among Us and read it. I can personally attest the work of healing in my own family, spiritual and physical.

The most dramatic case of physical healing came after Ron suffered from severe back pain for 18 months. During that time he also underwent two upper endoscopy procedures, one to diagnose an ulcer and to rule out pancreatic cancer, the other to check the healing process of the ulcer. It was finally determined that he should undergo a discectomy to remove the cause of the nerve impingement caused by the bulging disc. For months friends and family had prayed for Ron. After Mass the morning of the surgery, Fr. Joe administered the Anointing of the Sick to Ron, while friends, Margaret and Bill, and I laid hand on him. That in itself is a moving and spiritual experience.

While preparations were being made to begin the surgery, the surgeon came in to do the obligatory history and physical. During the physical the Dr. tried to elicit pain from Ron. He did all the neurological testing. When all was done he said. "I can't do the surgery." (I thought that was a poor joke to say to someone about to have major surgery!) He indeed was serious! He told us that since he couldn't cause Ron to have pain he couldn't in good conscience do the surgery because he could do more harm that good, should he have the surgery anyway. He told Ron to call again when he was having the pain and he would reschedule the surgery.

To date, 3 years later, Ron as had no more pain or even slight discomfort. Needless to say there was jubilation and exultation among family and friends as well as Ron himself. There is healing!!! It is here everyday and everywhere!!!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Vanity of Vanities

2010-08-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

If you reflected at all on this reading from the Book of Ecclesiastes it had to have been and eyeopening event. I have listened to this reading, as you have, for many years, yet today is the day of wonder for me. I was taught as a child that vanity is a sin. In fact it is listed as one of the Seven Deadly Sins along with gluttony, covetousness, lust, anger, envy, and sloth. A good explanation of vanity can be found at Catholic Culture. org.

Most of all I was struck by these words, "For what profit comes to man from all the toils and anxiety of heart with which he has labored under the sun? All his days sorrow and grief are his occupation; even at night his mind is not at rest. This also is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 2: 22-23)

Our world is full of vanity. Why else would we be in a constant state of anxious labor? Vanity tells us we can do it on our own. So instead of trusting in Providence we lose sleep at night. We over compensate, worry and find our only satisfaction in successes that are short lived, instead of relying on the source of all creation. Yes, vanity!!!! There this is the word for it and today I came to realize it. Yes, and something else. "[C]hrist is all and in all (Colossians 3: 11)!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

"What does it mean to be a good Catholic?"

2010-07-18T10:34:00.000-07:00

Church of the Immaculate Conception
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods

For a long time now...I can't put it into hours, days, or months...I have been searching, wondering. It's one of those times of life when the soul is dry, arid and it needs nourishment and I don't seem to know where to find it. Perhaps, I'm looking in the wrong places. I do know I need some guidance.

In reflection today I picked up Mornings with Thomas Merton, 120 Daily Readings and came upon #62.

Another one of those times that turned out to be historical, as far as my own soul is concerned was when Lax and I were walking down Sixth Avenue, one night in the spring. The street was all torn up and trenched and banked high with dirt and marked out with red lanterns where they were digging the subway, and we picked our way along the fronts of the dark little stores, going downtown to Greenwich Village. I forget what we were arguing about, but in the end Lax suddenly turned around and asked me the question:

"What do you want to be, anyway?"

I could not say, "I want to be Thomas Merton the well-known writer of all those book review in the back pages of the Time Book Review," or "Thomas Merton the assistant instructor of Freshman English at the New Life Social Institute for Progress and Culture," so P put the thing on the spiritual plane, where I knew It belonged, and said:

"I don' know. I guess what I want it to be a good Catholic."

"What do you mean, you want to be a good Catholic?"

So I guess that I what I am trying to discern. You see I don't know what that means either.
Who determines what a good Catholic is. It is a fearful thing to feel unsure. I can only hope that that because I have not heard the Spirit speak to me yet, that He will see fit to clear my ears and head so that His words of wisdom will come through loud and clear.

~~^j^~~
For this time of discernment I say a hearty,
"Thanks be to God!"

Christian song - Yahweh I Know You Are Near

2010-07-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

I would simply ask you to listen and to reflect on the words. These are words of comfort. I know that for certain. at a time when I was in most need of comfort and release from anxiety these are the words that were sent to me.

Indeed, O Lord, I know your are near! This, to me, is the most reassuring part of my existence.

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Please join in this Music Monday by visiting Shawntele's lovely blog Saved By Grace each Monday for a musical and inspiring start to your week. She hosts Music Monday where we are invited to post a song or video. This is an opportunity to share the music that lift your soul and enlightens your life.

The Failure of Conquest and It's Only Success

2010-07-06T04:02:00.000-07:00

Archbishop Fulton Sheen wrote the book The Cross And The Beatitudes, Lessons on Love and Forgiveness. In it he offers us a poem by Harry Kemp. I was so taken by it this morning that I decided I would share it with you.

I saw the Conquerors riding by
With cruel lip and faces wan:
Musing on kingdoms sacked and burned
There rode the Mongol Genghis Khan;

And Alexander, like a God,
Who sought to weld the world in one;
And Caesar with his laurel wreath;

And leading, like a star the van,
Heedless of upstretched arm and groan,
Inscrutable Napoleon went
Dreaming of empire and alone...

Then all perished from the earth
As fleeting shadows from the glass,
And, conquering down the centuries,
Came Christ, the Swordless, on an ass.
~Harry Kemp~

The truth is there is no unity or empires, no success or wealth without Christ. There is no happiness in the pain of others. It cannot be found except in the salvation delivered to us on the Cross.

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Provident Celebration

2010-06-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Cross made from Lindon tree Mother Theodore planted on arrival to this area.

"What does it matter what becomes of us, provided God's work be accomplished?"
~Saint Mother Theodore Guerin

Today I privileged to attend the 50th Jubilee of Sister Mary Moloney. She has been a long time friend since our days in Oklahoma. The Sisters of Providence have been part of our family from that time. Because of these sisters I have been called to reflect on the on the effect of Providence in my/our life. It has been extraordinary! It has been quite a ride. Yes, and so it goes.

Also, as Providence would have it the Meditation for the Day in Magnificat calls us to a reflection on That very Providence again.

The Power of Faith

We must, then, have faith and not be dispirited. We must not be stopped by any kind of human calculation. To overcome the obstacles we have to throw ourselves into the task so that the very effort we make will open up new paths. Personal holiness, giving oneself to God, is the one cure which overcomes any difficulty.

Being holy means living exactly as our Father in heaven wants us to live. You will say that it is difficult. It is. The ideal is a very high one. And yet it is also easy. It is withing our reach. When a person becomes ill there may be not appropriate medicine. But in supernatural affairs, it is not like that. The medicine is always at hand. It is Jesus Christ, present, in the Holy Eucharist, and he also gives us his grace in the other sacraments which he established.

Let us say again in word and in action: "Lord I trust in you; your ordinary providence, your help each day, is all I need." We do no have to ask God to perform great miracles. Rater, we have to beg him to increase our faith, to enlighten our intellect, and strengthen our will. Jesus always stays by our side and is always himself. ~Saint Josemaria Excriva

To have experienced this joyous day is just another one of those memories that will remind me that this is where I supposed to be today!

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

The Gift of Assertion

2010-06-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Those who, to please their listeners, avoid giving a forthright declaration of the will of God become the slaves of those they would please, and abandon
the service of God." ~Saint Basil, the Great

I'm wondering if Saint Basil is asking, "Are you a wishy-washy Catholic? Do you fear rejection by others because of your stance in defense of the Faith?"

It occurred to me that if that is the case I really need to call upon the Holy Spirit to fill me with the gift of fortitude so I can carry on. For if it is true that I would rather please my peers than please my Creator, I need to step back and consider what rejection of God might mean to me. It asks, "Do you fear rejection today or should you fear rejection for eternity?"

I really need to think about it! How about you?

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Wanderings

2010-06-06T15:44:00.000-07:00

I have been a long time in offering the wisdom of others. I kept waiting for someone else to contribute and was reminded that perhaps others are looking to me for that. So here is one i found most recently...

"The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly, to do it in the manner he wills it; and thirdly, to do it because it is his will. ~~Saint Elizabeth Ann
Seton

A lesson that I personally need to learn.

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!!!

Music Monday~~Everyday God

2010-05-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

This song calls me to my center, My God. I am called to the comfort, the love, to the one who is my salvation, my all!!!

~~^j^~~
Thanks be go God!

Seeds of Sin

2010-05-03T03:41:00.000-07:00

Do you know that often a root has split a rock
when allowed to remain in it?
Give no place to the seed of evil, seeing that it
break up your faith.
~Saint Cyril of Jerusalem~

This is a wonderful analogy. Read it again. I have considered my soul a garden. Yes, and have even compared the Sacrament of Reconciliation as the pruning hook. At the same time I have only considered the visible results of my weeds and flowers. I haven't considered the roots. In order for the garden to flourish it needs to be tended in other ways that by pruning. It needs to be cultivated and fed. I overlook that at times and like today I am reminded again. There is a lot of work to do in the garden if it is to flower in grace to avoid a "break up in [my] faith."

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Anger Management

2010-04-17T03:53:00.000-07:00

I tried to post this yesterday on Kind Conversation under Words of Wisdom but somehow I managed to send it into cyberspace and there it may remain for ever. I will try again here today.

It struck me when I read this quote how very much anger does impact our lives and I could only imagine how much we would gain by "tempering" it.

Imagine your anger to be a kind of wild beast, because it too has ferocious teeth and claws. And if you don't tame it, it will devastate all things. It not only hurts the body; it even corrupts the health of the soul, devouring, rending, tearing to pieces all its strength, and making it useless for everything. ~Saint John Chrysostom

Truly Words of Wisdom to ponder.

Wishing all a grand weekend of peace and quiet!!!

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Music Monday~~Still Singing the Song

2010-04-12T03:21:00.001-07:00

What a grand weekend!!! There was family and family to entertain. The musical was great fun as high school musical always are. And I'm so glad there is always a TOMORROW! Really, a song of hope to lift those Monday Spirits!

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Redemption~~

2010-04-09T04:08:00.000-07:00

Holla, the Incarnate Son
Hath come to earth and fought and won.

Lullay, he lieth in tomb,
and for my soul he findeth room.

Lullay, I rest in him,
Weary spirit and weary limb.

Holla, we rise;
He leadeth me after him through the skies.

Holla, we compass about and hem
The golden gates of Jerusalem.

Holla, we enter in
Because my friend hath not known sin.

Hallelujah, I see Lord God and all is well;
Lullay, I rest in him.

"The Shout"
Adam Fox

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Thanks be to God!!

Music Monday~~ Alleluia Easter Monday

2010-04-05T03:25:00.000-07:00

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Good Friday

2010-04-02T04:26:00.000-07:00

...aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I thirst." There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, "It is finished." And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit." John 19:28-30

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Thanks be to God!

Join us today by saying the rosary between 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m. as we pray for world peace. God bless you all!

Holy Thursday

2010-04-01T05:01:00.000-07:00

On this glorious spring day and in preparation for the celebration of Holy Thursday I offer this reflection.

Jesus come, my feet are dirty. You have become a servant for my sake, so fill your basin with water; come, wash my feet. I know that I am bold in saying this, but your own words have made me fearful. "If I do not wash your feet, you will have no companionship with me." Wash my feet, then, so that I may be your companion. But what am I saying: "Wash my feet"? Peter could say these words, for all that needed washing were his feet. For the rest, he was completely clean. I must be made clean with that other washing of which you said: "I have a baptism with which I must be baptized." (Origen, Third Century)

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The Cross Through the Eyes of Mother Teresa

2010-03-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

I was drawn today to the writings of Mother Teresa of Calcutta in the book Love: A Fruit Always In Season edited by Dorothy S. Hunt. It is a book of daily meditations on the words of Mother Teresa and today's is very graphic in its imagery. Reflect on these words with me.

What you can see in the Cross

...Look at the Cross and you will see Jesus' head bent to kiss you, His arms extended to embrace you, His heart opened to receive you, to enclose you within His love. Knowing that the Cross was His greater love for you and for me, let us accept His Cross in whatever He wants to give, let us give with joy whatever He wants to take, for in doing so they will know that we are His disciples, that we belong to Jesus, that the work you and I and all the Brothers and Sisters do is but our love in action... (Mother Terese of Calcutta: A Biography by Edward, LeJoly, 333-334)

If we look at the Cross through the eyes of Mother Teresa we can really see this loving Savior who gave his all for us! How much is ALL we can give for him?

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Thanks be to God!

Wisdom from Fulton J. Sheen

2010-03-19T04:24:00.001-07:00

fulton
Originally uploaded by Oka Kurniawan

My Lent thus far has been more productive than most. I say that as I have just finished a four day mission given by a wonderful Redemptorist, Fr. Vic. Earlier this week was the Penance Service. Being reminded of this again today in this reflection brings even greater healing. Listen with me from Lent and Easter: Wisdom from Fulton J. Sheen, A Redemptorist Pastoral Publication.

Rubbish Pile

Sorrow [for sin] is an intention to abandon the ego. It is hard. Sometimes it is like being skinned alive, peeling away sins and getting rid of some of them, taking on the firm purpose of amendment...I believe that most people are sorry for their sins not just because they dread the loss of heaven and fear hell, it is because they have hurt our Lord. After all, it is the Cross that reveals the dimension of sin. No one ever thoroughly sees sin in its utter nakedness until he understands redemption. Take the errors and the stupidity and the crimes of every day. People summarize them by saying, "Oh, what a fool I made of myself!" There is a world of difference between that and, "Oh, what a sinner I am!"
Fulton J. Sheen, Audio Tape, "Penance"

Repentance

If we say that we have fellowship with [God] while we are walking in darkness, we lie and do not do what is true; but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin...If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1John 1:6-9

Prayer

With Saint John Chrysostom, let us contemplate the "many wrongs that the cross has set right," and pray: Dear Lord, even by prayer and penance we cannot fathom the inscrutable way of the cross, but we seek faith that you will deliver us from our sins and rescue us from our wrongheadedness. Amen

Lenten Action

Say a fervent act of contrition today, perhaps one you create in our own words.
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So it is that I reflect today on my sinfulness and in so doing offer my sincere sorrow for the sins I have committed. For my sins do indeed impact the lives of many, not just my own and I must accept responsibility for the pain they have caused. And then in gratitude I say to my Lord and Savior, "Deo gratias!"

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Again I say,

Thanks be to God!!

Originally uploaded by Oka Kurniawan

Music Monday``May the Road Rise to Meet You

2010-03-08T03:32:00.000-08:00

Good Monday Morning! May this be the beginning of a grand and glorious week for us all!

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Thanks be to God!

Wisdom from St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi

2010-03-06T11:15:00.000-08:00

I found this reflection really illuminating. It is from Lent and Easter: Wisdom from St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi. The instruction itself is beautiful to me.

God's Self-Revelation in Love
Place your mind before the mirror of eternity!
Place your soul in the brilliance of glory!(Heb 2:3)
Place your heart in the figure of the divine substance (1Cor 3-18)
and, through contemplation,
transform your entire being into the image
of the Godhead Itself,
so that you too may feel what friends feel
in tasting the hidden sweetness (Ps 31:20; 1Cor 2:9)
that, from the beginning,
God Himself has reserved for His lovers.

And, after all who ensnare their blind lovers
in a deceitful and turbulent world
have been completely passed over,
may you totally love Him
Who gave Himself totally for your love,
At Whose rewards and their uniqueness and
grandeur have no limits;
I am speaking of Him,
the Son of the Most High,...
St. Clare of Assisi,
"The Third Letter to Agnes of Prague." 51

Christ's Eternal Love That Fills Us With the Presence of God
I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask of imagine to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen
Ephesians 3:16-21

Prayer

Our Lord, you are not a distant god. Rather, you loved us so much that you drew near to us by becoming one of us. You revealed yourself to us through the gift of your Son two thousand years ago, and you continue to reveal yourself to us in the loving union and friendship we share with him today. Be near to us. Show yourself to us. Fill us with your love.

Lenten Action

Spend time with or contact a friend perhaps one with whom you may have fallen out of touch. Reflect upon who close God is to you and how God's friendship with and love for you is deeper than any friendship or love that you can experience in your earthly life.

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Thanks be to God!

Wisdom from Pope John Paul II

2010-03-05T04:39:00.000-08:00

So I will reflect on the words of Pope John Paul II today and be guided by them. From Lent and Easter: Wisdom from Pope John Paul II:

Returned to Dignity By God's Mercy

Mercy--as Christ has presented it in the parable of the prodigal son-- has the interior form of the love that in the New testament is called agape. This love is able to reach down to every prodigal son, to every human misery, and above all to every form of moral misery, to son. When this happens, the person who is the object of mercy does not feel humiliated, but rather found again and "restored to value." The father first and foremost expresses to him his joy that he has been "found again" and that he has "returned to life." This joy indicates a good that has remained intact: even if he is prodigal, a son does not cease to be truly his father's son; it also indicates a good that has been found again, which in the case of the prodigal son has his return to the truth about himself.
Dives in Misericordia (Rich in Mercy), November 30, 1980

The Merciful Love of the Father

Then Jesus said, "There was a man who had tow sons. The younger of them said to his father, 'Father, Give me the share of the property that will belong to me.' So he divided his property between them. A few day later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living...So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and dissed him Then the son said to him 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; am no longer worthy to be called your so.' But the father said to his slaves, 'Quickly, bring out a robe--the best one--and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. and get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again' he was lost and is found:' And the began to celebrate."
Luke 15:1-13, 20-24

Prayer

Merciful Father, I sometimes turn from you and reject your love. I think I can make it on my own and i Stubbornly refuse to follow you. If it were not for your mercy, I would be forever lost. Help me to remember that you are always waiting to welcome me back and to restore my great dignity as your child.

Lenten Action

Show thanks for God's mercy in your life by reflecting it. When someone wrongs you today, excuse him or her...eve before he or she asks for forgiveness.

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I will spend my day developing my compassion and understanding. I will welcome those I meet this day and greet them with a smile though it may be difficult. For I have been greeted by others with this same smile when I have not been worthy of it!

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Thanks be to God!

Lenten Reflection With Herni J. M. Nouwen

2010-03-03T06:26:00.000-08:00

I have found each and everyone of these books a treasure in wisdom and enlightenment. Today I offer a reflection from Lent and Easter: Wisdom from Herni J. M. Nouwen compiled by Judy Bauer. I listened to this lesson with great interest and again was nourished by these words.

Sustainment

To take the holy scriptures and read them is the first thing we have to do to open ourselves to God/s call. Reading the scriptures is not as easy as ti seems...We tend to make anything and everything we read subject to analysis and discussion. But the word of God should lead us first of all to contemplation and medication. Instead of taking the words apart, we should bring them together in our innermost being; instead of wondering if we agree or disagree, we should wonder which words are directly spoken to us and connect directly with our personal story. Instead of thinking about the words as potential subjects for an interesting dialogue...we should be willing to let them penetrate into the most hidden corners of our hearts, even to those places where no other word has yet found entrance.

Henri J. M. Nouwen, Reaching Out:
The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life

The authority of the Word

Jesus said to them..."The Fathers loves the Son and show him all that he himself is doing; and he will show him greater works than these, so that you will be astonished. Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son give life to whomever he wishes. The Father judges no one but has given all judgement to the Son, So that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my work and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life."
John 5:19-24

Prayer

Steadfast God, grant me the openness to read and accept the words of your holy Scriptures as truth from my inner being, as a springboard for meditation, as urgent messages directed to the hidden places of my heart. Also grant me the willingness to listen and connect with your teachings. Keep me from stumbling over their simplicity. Amen.

Lenten Action

Choose a passage from holy Scripture that is significant to you and memorize it.

Wishing all a day for fruitful reflection on the word of God!

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Thanks be to God!

Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton

2010-03-02T04:08:00.000-08:00

Today's offering from Lent and Easter: Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton from The Center for the Study of C. S. Lewis and Friends.

Riddles of God

This, I say, is the first fact touching the speech; the fine inspiration by which God comes in at the end, not to answer riddles, but to propound them. The other great fact which, taken together with this one, makes the whole work religious instead of merely philosophical is that other great surprise which makes Job suddenly satisfied with the mere presentation of something impenetrable. Verbally speaking the enigmas of Jehovah seem darker and more desolate that the enigmas of Job; yet Job was comfortless before the speech of Jehovah and is comforted after it. He has been told nothing, but he feels the terrible and tingling atmosphere of something which is too good to be told. The refusal of God to explain His design is itself a burning hinge of His design. The riddles of God are more satisfying than the solutions of man.
"Introduction to the Book of Job," G. K. C. as M.C.

Out of the Whirlwind
Then the Lord answered job out of the whirlwind;
"Who is this that darkens counsel by words without
knowledge?
Gird up our loins like a man,
I will question you, and you shall declare to me.

"Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me if you have understanding.
Who determined its measurements--surely you know!
Or who stretched the line upon it?
On what were its bases sunk,
or who laid its cornerstone
when the morning starts sang together
and all the heavenly beings shouted for joy?"
Job 38: 1-7

Prayer

God almighty, maker of heaven and earth, have mercy on me for my lack of faith, for too easily grumbling and grousing about your governance of the universe. Something the injustice the cruelty, and the insanity of our world overwhelms me--and I freeze. Grand me an obedient heart more willing to submit to you, more willing to offer myself in significant ways as part of the solution to my own prayers.

Lenten Action

Take a walk or hike today. Try to peer into the depth and intricacy of the created order. Admit in prayer all the things you cannot fathom. Humble yourself, thanking God for the mystery of the universe.

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I had to read this not once but three times. The lesson here, to me, it not that I should understand but trust. I'm not supposed to get it. I'm supposed to attempt to get it and in so doing I am open to all that is around me in this journey to God. If I don't get what I think I should understand, there is going to be a gift that is offered to me in which something more important is revealed. There are surprises around every corner and "the riddles of God [really] are more satisfying than the solutions of man."

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Thanks be to God!

Who Do YOU Say I Am?

2010-02-25T04:32:00.000-08:00

I have today been challenged to consider who I SAY Jesus is. A daunting task. For every time I think I have a conception that is clear, I again realize that he cannot be explained in human terms.

The reflection I offer is from A Catholic Woman's Book of Days by Amy Welborn.

Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages
of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked
his disciples, "Who do people say that I am?"
~Mark 8:17
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Who is Jesus? If we look around, we see lots of different variations on the theme of Jesus. Lots of options.

I often find that the more intense and wild the speculation, the less interest the speculator has in the most reliable sources we have when it comes to the question of who Jesus is: the Scriptures and the life of his church.

Who do I say that he is? An I just curious--or does the answer really matter? Where do I go to get to know the One who love me so?
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Jesus, May I know who you are as I meet you in word and sacrament.

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And so I leave you to speculate, reflect, ponder, pray. Commune with Him who loves you so much! For only you can answer this question satisfactorily for yourself. Only you can know who Jesus is to you. It's personal. It's without definition. It's only me and Jesus and you and Jesus. The glory in this is that the time spent with Him will give us a new perspective each and every time we have this time alone with Him.

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Thanks be to God!!!

Wisdom from St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi

2010-02-24T04:13:00.000-08:00

Today I find that the offering from Lent and Easter, Wisdom from Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi brings me comfort and encouragement. Offering you the same.

Burning with Love for Christ

...[M]ay you, therefore, be inflamed ever more strongly with the fire of love! As you further contemplate His ineffable delights, riches, and perpetual honors, and, sighing, may you cry out from the great desire and love of your heart:

"Draw me after you,
let us run in the fragrance of your perfumes,
O heavenly Spouse!
I will run and not tire,
until You bring me into the wine-cellar,
until Your left hand is under my head
and your right hand will embrace me happily,
You will kiss me with the happiest kiss of Your mouth."
Saint Clare of Assisi,
"The Fourth Letter to Agnes of Prague." 57

Let Your Flame Shine

You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is throw out and tramples under foot.

You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be his. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under a bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, lit your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:13-16

Prayer

Lord Jesus, the love I share with others in this world is only a small refection of your love for me. It is a spark compared with the light of the sun. This Lenten season, enkindle my heart so that the fire of my own love for you might grow in intensity and better resemble your love for me. May my life itself be a flame that makes your own light present in the world.

Lenten Action

Use a candle during prayer this Lenten season as a reminder of the love of Christ that burns withing your. Be an agent for light in the world that often seems overcome by darkness; be a positive and uplifting presence to those around you.

I think the kindest message for me here today is that I should make a conscious effort to offer true and honest, loving and compassionate assistance to those with whom I meet each day. This is not an easy task as there are those I meet who seem to dare me to be nice to them. I am grateful for this encouragement.

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Thanks be to God!

Lent and Easter, Wisdom from St. Frances and St. Clare of Assisi is compiled by John V. Kruse

Wisdom from Pope John Paul II

2010-02-23T04:08:00.000-08:00

You know, I really don't like to consider my flaws, my weaknesses. I'd prefer to think of myself as a good person who makes mistakes because of weakness. What I fail to consider sometimes is that those mistakes, if done often enough, soon are not mistakes but choices made freely and they then become sin. So while reflecting on today's offering in Lent and Easter Wisdom from Pope John Paul II, compiled by John V Kruse, I realized that I have a lot of work to do. I should acknowledge the weakness, accept the weakness, and allow myself to grow because of this weakness through the grace of God. Even more difficult is the Lenten Action offered here.

Finding Christ In Our Own Shortcomings

True disciples of Christ are conscious of their own weakness. For this reason they put all their trust in the grace of God and they accept it with undivided hearts, convinced that without Him they can do nothing (see John 15:5). What characterizes them and distinguishes them from others is not their talents or natural gifts. It is their firm determination to proceed as followers of Jesus. May you be imitators of them as they were of Christ!
Message for the 18th World Youth Day (April 13, 2003)
From the Vatican, March 8, 2003

Christ's Strength Revealed in Human Weakness

Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated. Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." Si, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Prayer

Lord, there is no hiding it: I am far from perfect. I have many weaknesses. I fall many times on my spiritual journey. I praise you as you use my neediness and weakness to demonstrate your own strength and glory. Help Me to remember that you can work great things through me--warts and all. I need only to follow you.

Lenten Action

Identify one of your weaknesses. Place that weakness in God's hands. Think of a way that God may have used that weakness to demonstrate his own strength and glory.

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Thanks be to God!

Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton

2010-02-19T03:29:00.000-08:00

Criticism Like God's

A Good Critic should be like God in the great saying of a Scottish mystic. George MacDonald said that God was easy to please and hart to satisfy. That paradox is the poise of all good artistic appreciation.

Fancies Versus Fads

SOMETHING PLEASING, SELDOM PERFECT

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
Hebrews 13:16

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:48

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we know we can always do more to please you. Help us to see this fact as a cause for celebration, a reason to delight in the work you give us; may we not be pressed down by our responsibilities but be lifed up by them, for in doin your will we draw closer to you, close to joy.

LENTEN ACTION

Are you familiar with George MacDonald, the writer mentioned in today's passage by Chesterton? MacDonald was a great influence on Chesterton and many other Christian writers, including C. L. Lewis and J. R.R. Tolkien. If you are on the Internet today, look up a brief biography of George MacDonald. If your interest is Piqued, but or borrow one of his many books.

(Lent and Easter, Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton, Compilation, Prayers and Actions by Thom Satterlee and Robert Moore-Jumonville)

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Today, as I leave on retreat, I pray that I may discern more fully the path I will continue to trod through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the love of God and the gentle teachings of Jesus.

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Thanks be to God!!!

Art by In Toon With The World

God's Providence...

2010-02-18T04:03:00.000-08:00

St. Ignatius of Loyola
by Peter Paul Rubens

Today I offer this reflection from Lent and Easter Wisdom from St. Ignatius of Loyola compiled by James L. Connor, SJ

God's Providence in Life Experiences

The Power of Vanity

When the bones knit, one below the knee remained astride another, which caused a shortening of the leg. The bones so raised cause a protuberance that was not pleasant to the sight. The sick man was not able to put up with this, because he had made up his mind to seek his fortune in the world. He...asked the surgeon whether it could not be cut away. They told him that it could be cut away, but that the pain would be greater than all he had already suffered...He determined, nevertheless, to undergo this martyrdom to gratify his own inclination. ~St. Ignatius' Own Story, 8

The Power of Service

"A certain Ananias, who was a devout man according to the low and well spoken of by all the Jew living there, came to me; and standing beside me, he said, 'Brother Saul, regain your sight!' In that very hour I regained my sight and saw him. Then he said, 'The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear his own voice; for you will be his witness to all the world of what you have seen and heart'" ~Acts 22: 12-15

Prayer

Dear Lord, as I embark on the Lenten and Easter journey, free me from the vanity that imprisoned the your Ignatius Loyola. Fill me with the Holy Spirit that empowered Paul of Tarsus to travel the known world in service of others and call of the Gospel. This I ask in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen.

Lenten Action

Look for the opportunity through the day to congratulate at least two people for something they have done well. Nothing builds trust and confidence more that affirmation like that.

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Thanks be to God!

Lenten Reflection With Thomas Merton

2010-02-17T04:22:00.000-08:00

Photo by Jim Forest

Please continue to journey with me this Lent as we are taught by those who have lessons to teach. So it is that today we are visited by Thomas Merton in the book Lent and Easter Wisdom from Thomas Merton from The Thomas Merton Institute for Contemplative Living. Let us stop and listen.

Lent Is Our "Holy Spring"

Even the darkest moments of the liturgy are filled with joy and Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten fast, is a day of happiness, a Christian feast. It cannot be otherwise, as it forms part of the great Easter cycle.

The Paschal Mystery is above all the mystery of life in which the Church, by celebrating the death and resurrection of Christ , enters into the Kingdom of Life which He has established once for all by His definitive victory over sin and death. We must remember the original meaning of Lent, as the ver sacrum, the Church's "holy spring" i n which the catechumens were prepared for their baptism, and public penitents were made ready by penance for their restoration to the sacramental life in a communion with the rest of the Church. Lent is then not a season of punishment so much as one of healing. ~Thomas Merton, Seasons of Celebration, 113
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A Season of Celebration

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself...So we are ambassadors for Christ...we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who know no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

As we work together with him, we urge you also not to accept the grace of God in vain. For he says

"At an acceptable time I have listened to yo, and on a day of salvation I have helped you."

See now is the acceptable time; see now is the day of salvation!
2 Corinthians 5:17-6:2

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Prayer

With faith in your resurrection, with hope in your power that undoes every death, I lift up my heart with love for you. She for your Holy Spirit who makes me more deeply your disciple. Crossing the threshold of this holy season, I renew my gratitude for the gift of being alive. On this Holy Wednesday, my forehead smeared with ashes, I accept my own death as holy: you have sanctified it. I offer my life and my death in thanksgiving to you, Jesus, the Christ, my Savior and my God.

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Lenten Journal

However you write in your Lent and Easter Journal, be truthful to your own experience. The question proposed for each day is only suggestive. Give your heart and mind free range. First question: In what ways do you consider Lent to be a :season of celebration"?

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May God in all his Mercy bless us all as we journey together this wonderful Season of Lent and Easter!

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Thanks be to God!!

Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton

2010-02-16T04:23:00.000-08:00

I will try during this Season of Holiness to offer reflections from those far more wise than me. I rely on these to offer me guidance and instruction, consolation and comfort. Hoping these will offer you all the same.

My first offering comes from Lent and Easter, Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton offered by The Center for the Study of C. S. Lewis and Friends. Published by Ligouri Press

Frenzied Asceticism

The essential difference between Christian and Pagan asceticism lies in the fact that Paganism in renouncing pleasure gives up something which it does not think desirable; whereas Christianity in giving up pleasure gives up something it thinks very desirable indeed. Thus there is a frenzy in Christian asceticism; its follies and renunciation are like those of first love. ~G. F. Watts

Spiritual Worship

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. ~Romans 12:1.

Prayer

Father, we offer in you only what we have been given from you; our bodies and our selves. Show us how we can worship you through the use of our bodies and the giving of ourselves. We want to live for others, as your Son has taught us.

Lenten Action

It seems odd that we should give up pleasures that we consider good. but perhaps Chesterton's point in the quotation above is that we are always free to give up these pleasure and at times are drawn to do so out of love for others. As you go through your day today, think of pleasures you would like to give up for the sake of another. Would you miss an hour of sleep to speak with someone who needs your attention? Its there something else that you love but are willing to give up because you love some other person even more?

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Thanks be to God!!

Heavenly Resolve

2010-02-09T16:13:00.000-08:00

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

Music Monday~~Amazing Grace

2010-02-08T04:59:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite hymns sung by three angelic voices!!! Let the words and music settle deep inside you! God be praised!!!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

If you wish to join in this Music Monday visit Shawntele's lovely blog Saved By Grace each Monday for a musical and inspiring start to your week. She hosts Music Monday where we are invited to post a song or video. This is an opportunity to share the music that lift your soul and enlightens your life.

Kinship

2010-02-03T03:45:00.000-08:00

Kinship

Family ties
Common ground for living
Compassion, sharing, nurturing love
Family

Today is my scheduled day for Spiritual Direction with Sister Dorothy. As part of my Reflections for the Journey, I have been asked to reflect on kinship and those who nurture that kinship.

Family can comes in many forms. There is my biological family. I have a work family. There is my cherished church family. And then there is my dedicated and diligent prayer family. And now as an Associate of the Sisters of Providence, I find I have another family in which I can rely for support and to which I can offer support. In other words, I see kinship as an extension of who I am. I am part of the whole that has many parts.

Along the way there are those who have guided, formed and gently "tweaked" me into being, a progress that continues until I am called home to the Father. I have had loving and assertive mentors who sometimes found my laziness and diligence lacking in zeal and have nudged me firmly along the way. There are those at times who had to temper the zeal because it was out of control. I am a person of two extremes with the middle road sometimes less worn than the gullies on both sides of the road.

To those who have tried to keep me from the ditches I am eternally grateful for without you I would have long ago failed to get up and try again.

Saint Mother Theodore Guerin said:

To write requires time; but to love, to cherish, to pray for, through that desire we have for the happiness of our friends, time is not needed.

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!!

Touched by the Word

2010-02-01T15:56:00.000-08:00

I was invited by Valerie at Intelligent Expressions to share in picture, scripture and word project. It is meant to bolster and encourage us every day. Because I cannot make a commitment to do this daily I will try to share with you words through pictures that have touched me. I think this is wonderful idea. Please visit Valerie and share in her daily reflections. They are beautifully done and will draw you back daily. Offer your own!

So today is my first offering. May God bless you all abundantly this day!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

(Just as with all posts...there are some rough edges. This one has some really rough edges, including the lack of a good editor!!! The zeal is there to share however!)

Music Monday~~Yahweh, I Know You Are Near

2010-01-31T08:14:00.000-08:00

At a time when MANY are anxious, frightened, stressed or lost. I have found that this song is MY best reminder of where I should be seeking consolation.

There was a time when fear was seriously embedded in my heart. When the unknown was my greatest source of anxiety and over which I had no control. It is as vivid today as it was then the for one I loved with all my heart was going to be tested for possible cancer. He is my best friend, my lover and has been my life for forty years.

I wept, prayed, prayed and wept!!! Fear was that GREAT!!! In a dream, for He visits me this way at times, He sang these very words to me. As my dearest of friends was off to his procedure I began humming this tune. For over an hour there was nothing on my mind but the words to this song, a wonderful mantra, and sincerity of prayer. When the gastroenterologist came to us and gave us the report...he told us that there was an ulcer that could be treated with medication and that after another EGD in several weeks this should be healed.

Indeed, healing did take place that day!!! Healing on many levels, physical, emotional, and spiritual. God be praised, for God is good, all the time. His grace is never ending. His love unfathomable. His generosity beyond all comprehension!!!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

HOPE

2010-01-22T04:01:00.000-08:00

Hopeful
Life with vision
Anticipating good
Living today for tomorrow
Expectant

When there are so many suffering in this world, the pain and suffering being endured by the people of Haiti becomes just one more example of the tragedy in the world. Hope is the way to tomorrow. The sunrise is the hope of the darkness of night. Food is the hope of hunger, water the hope of thirst. Healing is the hope of pain. And love is the hope of despair and fear.

Pope John Paul II said in an address to the 5oth session of the United Nations in 1995:

Hope is not empty optimism springing from a naive confidence that the future will necessarily be better than the past. Hope and trust are the premise of responsible activity and are nurtured in that inner sanctuary of conscience where "man is alone with God" and thus perceives that he is not alone amid the enigmas of existence, for he is surrounded by the love of the Creator. [Pope John Paul II, His Essential Wisdom edited by Carol Kelly-Gangi]

So it is that we who hope actively participate in offering hope. Hope is not a passive activity. Hope is most active when we bond with others to bring hope to fulfillment. Working in a food pantry or offering financial support to it. Feeding the hungry by cooking or serving the meal. Tutoring the child who cannot read. Hugging the child that weeps in fear. One cannot in all honesty say that they cannot supply hope or offer hope to another if he/she are actively investing time, talent and treasure to its fulfillment. There is always HOPE at the foot of the Cross!

So today, offer hope wherever and to whomever you can!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!!!

Lesson Well Learned Again

2010-01-20T03:38:00.000-08:00

So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.
Hebrews 4:16

I was taught a lesson in accepting grace this morning by Duchess, our dog. As Ron was leaving for work, she rushed passed him and jumped in the car. Coaxing her to come in didn't work. When she got out of the car she ran to the other side of the street, all of this in the dark, fog of a 5:00 a.m. morning. One cannot yell at that hour, though I really wanted to, so I thought enticing her with a treat. After several minutes she was in the house, sitting "pretty" for her treat. I really didn't want to give her the treat because she had been such a pest, but she got the treat non-the-less. In just a few more minutes she would probably do something again that would annoy me, but because she is so cute, she'll get the treat again.

It occurred to me, when I was giving Duchess the treat, that God performs this same ritual with me several times a day! I am given his glorious gift of grace each time I follow his way! And when I "rush pass" him doing my own thing, he is still there coaxing me back with that "treat" called grace. So, even though he probably doesn't want to give me the grace because I don't deserve it, he loves me so much that he bestows it on me anyway. It is comforting to know that God thinks I'm worth coaxing. It is wonderful to know that when I fail, I have been redeemed. So, it is that I am so grateful for the gift of GRACE!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be go God!!!

Food For Thought

2010-01-06T07:06:00.001-08:00

I woke up this morning just as I always do, saying the Hail Mary. My thoughts wandered to why it is that I always awake this way. Have I done this so many years just as a matter of course or is it because my morning can't begin until I call upon our Lady to pray for me? I would like to believe that It's because I want her to pray for me.

My thoughts then wandered to other gifts I am offered by God and I began to focus on the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Every night I go to bed saying the Act of Contrition. I ask God for forgiveness for sins I had committed that day and I go to bed hoping the next day will be better and the sins I committed would not be experienced again. Then I began an examination, not of my conscience, but of my personality and how I use or do not use the sacraments.

You see I take forgiveness of my sins for granted. Yes, I TAKE IT FOR GRANTED! Jesus Christ died on the cross so that I might be redeemed. I'm asked to "Love the Lord my God with all [my] heart, with all [my] soul and with all [my] mind. And I am to love [my] neighbor as [myself] (Matthew 23:36, 39).

It is simple. It is not a book with 200 laws and regulation. No, and the words are simple. They are not complex. It is not so complicated that I have to say, "I don't understand." If I follow his simple instructions all will follow all the rules and regulations ever written. If the laws are morally right and focus on the law of love I will not sin.

Now I am wondering why it is I make it so difficult to follow these two simple laws...

1. I'm selfish.
2. I'm jealous.
3. I'm greedy.
4. I'm religiously lazy.
5. I'm impatient with others.

That's only the beginning. I think if I start working on these five flaws, perhaps I will become a better follower of Christ. I should not take the Sacrament of Reconciliation for granted. When I accept its graces, I should do it with gratitude to a God that loves me, not necessarily for who I am, but for whom I can become.

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God~

First and Always Catholic...

2010-01-03T10:13:00.001-08:00

"First and Always Catholic"
Originally uploaded by Svadilfari

At a time when we are celebrating the priesthood. I have found this article by Peter John Cameron, O.P. to be very heartwarming and hope filled. This touches me personally as I am the daughter and grand-daughter, as well as, the wife of a member of the Knights of Columbus. My grandfather was a member of the first council in Denver. I am proud of the legacy and would invite those Catholic men who read this and are not members of the Knights of Columbus to seriously consider offering your services by joining this most worthwhile organization. (This article is in the January issue of Magnificat.)

Profile of a Priest: Father Michael J. McGivney
by Peter John Cameron, O. P.

Father Michael J. McGivney (1852-1890) spent his shor priesthood protecting the poor and the oppressed, especially by founding the Knights of Columbus. One seminary rector expressed his doubts about McGivney's vocation, disguising his objections in Latin: "Mr McGivney is a very good and pious young man. But he is exceedingly sensitive,, usque ad lacrymas [even unto tears]." But wasn't this sensitivity the very source of Father McGivney's astonishing priesthood? Pope John Paul II tells us that priest "should be able to know the depths of the human heart, to perceive difficulties and problems." Father McGivney did this par excellence. An 1880 newspaper article captures Father McGivney's New Haven: "Hundreds of yours are growing up in our midst in abject poverty, in filth, wretchedness, and crime for want of help and sympathy." Father McGivney responded. He ransomed an orphaned teenager who would have bee sent to a public institution. His pastoral care of a murdered on death row was so effected that even the New Your Times was amazed at the inmate's serenity on the day of his execution. "All the difficult circumstances which people find in their path as Christians are sincerely suffered in the priest's heart" (John Paul II). A month after the death of Father McGivney at the age of thirty-eight, a board of directors of the Knights of Columbus adopted a resolution. One line is the epitome of praise for a priest: "He was our father."

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!!!

"First and Always Catholic"
Originally uploaded by Svadilfar

Blessed New Year

2009-12-31T05:31:00.000-08:00

This is a lovely and loving way to bring in the New Year. Yes, understanding and knowing we are in the care of our loving God. Wishing you all the very best!

In The Cradle Of His Knowing

I am a child of God
Placed in the
cradle of his knowing

No matter what stage I am at
In life

There is a part of me
That has not yet reached its prime

Like the bed of a river
That is composed of histories
Laid down
by flowing water

Impressed upon my soul is
A story all its own
A tale of dying to the old world
Of not yet being born into the new

Riddling and sifting
His journeying through.

Poem by
Ann Murry at Poetry,
Prayer, and Praise.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

What Child Is This...

2009-12-28T03:52:00.001-08:00

G. K. Chesterton has written a really lovely poem. It is tender and visual. It is rare that I read a poem and feel I am there, experiencing the sight. Not so with this poem. It is from Advent and Christmas, Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton.

The Christ Child

The Christ-child lay on Mary's lap,
His hair was like a light.
(O weary, weary were the world,
But here is all aright.)

The Christ-child lay on Mary's breast
His hair was like a star.
(O stern and cunning are the kings,
But here the true hearts are.)

The Christ-Child lay on Mary's heart,
His hair was like a fire.
(O weary weary is the world,
But here the world's desire.)

The Christ-child stood on Mary's knee
His hair was like a crown,
And all the flowers looked up at Him,
And all the stars looked down.

Collected Poetry

~~~~~
Thanks be to God!

An Advent Reflection

2009-12-14T04:51:00.000-08:00

Still I have neglected this corner of my world. But today as I have read other posts I have come upon one at Poetry, Prayer and Praise that I wish to save here. Ann has posted a wonderful reflection by John Henry Newman.

A Meditation

by John Henry Newman

God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work

to me which He has not committed to another I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection

between persons. He has not created me for naught. I shall do good.

I shall do His work.

Visit and enjoy the entire offering. Then take time to reflect.

~~~~~~~

The Season of Advent

2009-11-30T02:38:00.001-08:00

I have been remiss is my journaling here. I will make every effort to improve on this during the Season of Advent. It is a time of reflection and soul searching. It is a wonderful time to remember the past, live in the present, and hope for the future. Through the grace of God I will walk this road.

~~~~~~~

The Bible

2009-11-12T04:59:00.001-08:00

This evening I will present the topic of the Holy Bible to this years RCIA inquirers. Every time I speak before a group of those searching I am awed by their bravery to explore something I have lived with my entire life and in which I find such comfort in, that my Catholic faith. They are courageous and inspiring.

I enter with trepidation. Yes, even fear that the words I speak in instruction will not be clear and perhaps even confuse. I am afraid that I cannot answer their questions because I either do not have the answer or that I will not explain it to their satisfaction. I realize this is, in some way, my pride speaking, for the words should be coming from the Holy Spirit, as I am only his lowly instrument for the words.

I pray earnestly for the Holy Spirit to guide me in this endeavor again and that the words are those that empower the listener to yearn to learn even more.

~~~^j^~~~

Contemplation, The Second Pillar

2009-11-10T03:53:00.001-08:00

I find it so terribly hard to be quiet. I don't me to not speak, though for me that is also a true statement. I mean to be in a place where my mind is free of WORDS. The words of shopping-for-groceries, why-didn't-I-read-that-book words, or the resonance of I-can't-do-that. Somehow, I manage, when I try to focus, to compile a list of everything I think I should be doing instead of trying to be quiet and centering on the presence of God within me.

Matthew Kelly asks,

Why do you suppose God called so many shepherds to occupy positions of authority and influence? Perhaps it was because they were out in the middle of God's cosmic temple all day, and in the middle of God's cosmic Classroom of Silence they had plenty of time to think, reflect, ponder, and listen to the voice of God in their lives. (Rediscovering Catholicism, pg 181)

I'm always busy thinking about my life. I can't seem to block it out. I've tried centering prayers, prayers for meditation to start my contemplation or used soft music to settle my mind. I have often thought I have Spiritual ADD (attention deficit disorder). I can't stay prayer-focused.

Matthew says to start with ten minutes a day.

If you are confused, angry, tired, frustrated, happy, excited, grateful...come to the silence...[A]sk yourself, "When will I spend my ten minutes in the Classroom of Silence today?" Don't be deceived by the simplicity of this message. You will be amazed how much ten minutes each day in a quiet church can change your life. (pp. 183-184)

Though I cannot sit each day in a quiet church, I will commit to sitting in a quiet room each day for ten minutes. God is everywhere and ten minutes can be found. I'll find them.

Finally, Matthew said to me in this text,

If we wish to encourage today's saints to emerge, we must simply return one question to our inner dialogue, I call it The Big Question. As far as I can see, it is the ultimate question, the only question.

"God, what do you think I should do?"

Well, there's the rub. Do I really want to know what God thinks I should do? What if it's not what I want to do...Hum! The reason for contemplation. God and Me discussing it!

~~~^j^~~~

Reconciliation, The First Pillar

2009-11-02T03:43:00.000-08:00

We all have spiritual disease. We all have sins. Some people like to pretend that they don't, but their sins will just spread through their lives like cancer in the body. And in the end, they will be devoured by their sins...God sees your unrealized potential. He sees not only who you are, but also who you can be. Ask him to share that vision with you...
a great freedom is born by bringing your darkness into light. Our faults and failings have a tendency of eating away at us inside. But when we bring them into the light they lose their power over us...I assure you, if you will approach this sacrament with a sincere and humble heart, you will experience the flow of grace in your life. [As the priest speaks the words of absolution,] the flood gates of grace will be opened your soul will be filled with a deep peace, and you will experience inexplicable lightness, a sense of liberation.

Reconciliation is a gift. Behold the beauty. Embrace the treasure.
Rediscovering Catholicism
by Mattew Kelly
pgs169-170

And so it is today that I am called to reflect on my own sinfulness. I do a poor job of making an examination of conscience each day. My excuse is I'm too tired. The TRUTH is I don't want to think about it. If I'm too tired I can go to bed and forget about it. In reality it will not go away. The sin is still there and when I awake in the morning to a new day without claiming my sinfulness that day will be no different that any other day in my life.

My happiness lies in claiming my sins...you can call them faults if you like, but a sin by any other name is still SIN. And so this day, before I go to bed I will do my examination of conscience, claim the sins as my own, and ask forgiveness. Then I will take these sins to my confessor for absolution. Amazingly, when I make it a practice of recalling my offenses in the examination of conscience, I have no need to make another examination of conscience before presenting myself before the priest for reconciliation with God.

I am beginning a renewal. I have done this many times before. Yes, and many times have let it slide. Yet again, I will try! I will made every effort to visit the Sacrament of Reconciliation monthly. And in this renewal, I ask for prayers that I may have the will, courage, and strength to continue this journey and that if I falter, I will have the wherewithal to begin again and not dwell on this as a failure but as another hurdle to be overcome.

~~~^j^~~~

The Seven Pillars of Catholic Spirituality

2009-10-28T02:46:00.000-07:00

It has been a week since Matthew Kelly was here and spoke to us. I have been "busy." Just as he said I need to take time out for the things most important. And the thing most important is my SOUL. I will reflect on how I can continue to be a Better-Version-of Myself by integrating more fully the seven pillars of Catholic spirituality as he puts it.

Matthew says in his book Rediscovering Catholicism

Our Spiritual heritage is rich in wisdom and practice. If we can embrace this spiritual heritage and adapt it to the modern context, we will begin again to thrive as the spiritual people God intended us to be. (pg. 156)

And so today I hope to continue the Provident Journey with more enthusiasm and zeal prayerfully and with vigor. Pray for me!

~~~^j^~~~

Super Abundant Grace

2009-10-20T03:55:00.001-07:00

Reflection by Herni J. M. Nouwen.

Super Abundant Grace

Over the centureis the Church has done enough to make any critical person want to leave it. Its history of violent crusades, prgroms, power struggles, oppression, excommunications, executions, manipulation of people and ideas, and constantly recurring divisions is there for everyone to see and be appalled by.

Can we believe that this is the same Church that carries in its center the Word ofGod and the sacraments of God's healing love? Can we trust that in the midst of all its human brokenness the Church presents the broken body of Christ to the world as food for eternal life? Can we acknowledge that where sin is abundant grace is superabundant, and that where promises are borken over and over again Go's promise stands unshaken? To believe is to answer yest to these questions.

*****

I read this, re-read it, thought about it, and read it again. If we study the Holy Scripture we find the same history throughout all time from the beginning of creation. Where there is sin, greed, and jealousy there will be pain, conflict, and violent death.

What I find in the Church is the love of God through the sacraments, nourishment in the Word and the Body of Christ, healing through the community of the Family of God. To this I say, "Where else would I go?"

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God

John Angotti "Feed My Lambs"

2009-10-12T03:59:00.001-07:00

I am reminded that I am called to feed his lambs. I pray for the strength to do Your will. It was a weekend of joy and jubliation. New birth and family love. "Feed my Sheep."

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!!!!

The Journey

2009-10-07T03:29:00.001-07:00

Today is the day I journey to meet Sr. Dorothy for spiritual direction. This is a journey anticipated with enthusiasm. We have such fulfilling discussions and I leave after every meeting feeling uplifted and validated in my faith and as a person. We discuss today our Inner Resources. Believe it or not I found it really difficult to define my inner strengths. Maybe that is because I have never been asked in all my life to so.

I was asked to name a time when I was healed by an inner wound...No one wants to delve into that so for a long time I could not or would not consider I had been wounded. I realized that we hide all those times. We don't want to think about them, so we just put them on the "top shelf in the closet" and hope we never have to deal with them again. Well, this lesson in itself has been healing!!!

And so it is with joy I prepare for this journey today, first by attending Mass and then I'm off to share with a friend!

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

Quote to Keep

2009-10-06T03:37:00.000-07:00

When I was reading Matthew Kelly's book Call To Joy this quote struck me as most relevant for me right now. I want to save it so it will be easily found again.

When we look forward in our lives we see uncertainty. When we look back, the events of our lives fall together like the colored pieces in a kaleidoscope, forming a pattern with meaning. We are then able to see how certain circumstances and events of the past have been part of an unfolding plan. By recognizing that a plan or pattern of providence has been at work in our past, we are able to move forward with trust despite the uncertainty that lies ahead. (pg 11-12)

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

One Thousand Gifts

2009-10-04T04:33:00.000-07:00

Gifts
Precious Treasures
Given with love, affection
Welcomed with open arms and love
Presents

On Mondays I write down the things for which I am grateful. The more I do this the more I find I am saying Thank You during each day. This is a blessing!!! And so I begin!

***

36. Colored leaves

37. Smiling faces

38. Barking dogs

39. Singing children

40. Fragrance of roses

41. Cherished memories

42. Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi and his simplicity

43. Lessons learned

44. Well worn shoes

45. Tooth paste

Road to Providence

2009-10-03T07:26:00.000-07:00

For the last year I have journeyed with Sister Dorothy, as my companion, on this Road to Providence. It has been a journey of self-awareness, reflection, and spiritual direction. I have found purpose in the time and talent I have been granted on this journey. And so, as I contemplate my commitment to the Sisters of Providence as an Associate and on this feast of their foundress, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, I am drawn to their Litany of Non-Violence. Pray it with me if you will.

Litany of Non-Violence

Provident God, aware of my own brokenness,
I ask the gift of courage to identify how and where
I am in need of conversion in order to live in
solidarity with all Earth's people.

Deliver me from the violence of superiority and disdain.
Grand me the desire, and the humility, to listen
with special care to those whose experiences
and attitudes are different from my own.

Deliver me from the violence of greed and privilege.
Grant me the desire, and the will, to live simply
so others may have their just share of Earth's resources.

Deliver me from the silence that give consent
to abuse, wars and evil.
Grant me the desire, and the courage, to risk speaking
and acting for the common good.

Deliver me from the violence of irreverence,
exploitation and control.
Grant me the desire, and the strength, to act
responsibly within the cycle of creation.

God of love, mercy and justice,
acknowledging my complicity in those attitudes,
actions and words which perpetuate violence,
I beg the grace of a non-violent heart. Amen

Sisters of Providence
of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!