Marriage on the Rocks!

Marriage on the Rocks!

Marriage is permanent because God established it from the beginning. He took the rib of man, and made woman. God brought her to the man, who said: “This one, at last, is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called woman for out of her man this one has been taken.” That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one body. Genesis 2:22-24.

Throughout your marriage, your partnership, you are working everyday on perfecting your human love. It is through this gift of God and this natural process that you work toward the good of each other, bear children between you and educate them about love between human beings and ultimately the love of God.

Sometimes life can seem overwhelming. You pack your days with much to do, leaving no time to enjoy each other, get pleasure from quiet time, or engage in powerful prayer. You must be responsible enough to take a look at your life when you are feeling anxious, irritated and overwhelmed and figure out what is challenging your peace. It is not weakness to discover and there is no shame in being honest when the tasks in your life seem too much to bear.

You are an adult and you are entitled to “time out.” As a woman you might seek companionship of a girl friend, an evening out to dinner, a day at the spa, or time at the mall window shopping. As a man you might enjoy time spent with other men, tinkering in the garage, or working on a project or car. Give each other the time and means to regroup, rejuvenate, de-stress and have growing experiences even if it is means being without each other for an hour or an evening.

If you have children it is extremely important for the two of you to have time away from them also. This special time together will allow you to keep fresh and recall the qualities you admire about each other. The more you highlight the good in each other, the less faults will rob you from due respect and love.

It’s important to recognize that your mind, emotions and body are not designed to run ragged and on automatic pilot to work, cook, clean, wash, transport children to and from school, sports, extra curricular activities, shopping for clothes, food, etc., all the while dealing with the hardships and dilemmas of life. Life can get overwhelming and get to be too much for anyone! Work together and make changes that will make life less complicated and stressful.

Love is about caring and being compassionate about what the other thinks and feels. Love is also compromise because we are not the same. You will never “always” see eye to eye. You may as well come to terms with the fact that you must “agree to disagree” about many things you experience together. However, we should always be working together toward harmony for the sake of love. You may not always see the other’s side or understand another’s reasoning. You are not in your spouse’s head and you can’t rationalize another’s thinking process. What you can do is talk about your concerns and work on solutions that are fair, mindful, harmonious and beneficial to all parties.

When life get’s tough there is no reason to feel you need to escape or sever ties to the life that you’ve built. There is nothing in this world that should be allowed to take from the love you have between you and those in your house of peace.

Your life was not meant to be a source of unhappiness. People were not designed to be a thorn in your side. Debt was not a part of God’s plan for you. You were created to know and give love, have abundance and share it, live with and offer hope, know happiness and cause it, share love and give it to all.

You have been raised by your parents or guardians who have taught you many things. You have exceptional, good, ordinary, sad and perhaps even traumatizing memories from your past. Therefore, it’s important to realize that everyone is different. It is through your childhood and right through adulthood that you form your likes, dislikes and opinions about life, marriage, rearing children, and religion.

Throughout your marriage you will implement values you cherish, traditions that you want to hold on to, pass on ideals and good morals that you believe have helped you to grow up and be a person who values human life, has respect for himself and others, and loves God above all.
It is your responsibility however, to recognize when you are not following in the path of love. If you are unable to recognize your shortcomings yourself then your spouse should approach you with kindness and tenderness to open your eyes so that your direction can be routed again to love. You should also receive this offer of love without struggle or contest. Ironically, sometimes the most eye opening epiphany’s come from the mouths of your own babes. The honest “truth” that comes from children is startling and eye opening and should be viewed as a blessing to you.
Your children imitate what you do. It is for you to be mindful and notice what you have taught your little ones. When it is clear that love has been pushed to the wayside, is it for you to put it back at the center of your lives where it belongs for the sake of goodness and righteousness to your spouse, children, family and all humankind.

If your child puts his hand to fire and gets scalded, you would immediately take his hand away from the fire to protect him. You would show him to be conscious of the danger so that he would not intentionally scald himself again. The same goes for you. When life’s circumstances have burned you or when relationships have turned sour you must modify your mindset, behavior, seek protection, and wholeheartedly seek peace and love.

In an effort to retain peace and love sometimes, alone you will bring damaging issues to another’s attention. There may be a time you must do it in a group. It is important to reconcile. If the others causing harm do not see then you must protect your family and keep them out of harm’s way. Pray for the offenders and forgive them their trespasses against you.

Although you may be at a different level of your faith and healing than your spouse, it is not for either of you to judge what the other does. But rather, respect one another’s decision as long as it is with love at its core. If a person can forgive another and still have encounters then that one shall continue on that course and with that relationship. However, that does not mean that the other must subject himself to the same if reconciliation was not possible. You must not talk down to people. You must not allow others to demean you, your spouse or your children. You must refrain from gossip and judgment.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, love is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:4

You can approach any situation, person or persons and say just about anything with love at your core. You must be careful not to be intentionally hurtful or crude. Sometimes you must keep the door open and give others many opportunities to make things right. You may get frustrated when others have cold and hardened hearts and are not responding as you would. If you have the strength to bear the hardships then continue to try to help. But the fight may not be yours to take on. The problems of others may be bigger than you. Be wise with which battles you take on for they should not destroy your home. You are not called to solve the problems of the world. However, you must maintain peace and love in your own household.

Cherish your spouse and your children. You are God’s holy family and He wishes to bless you daily. At the end of the day be thankful for what you have today, for the memories you hold in your heart, for the lessons that make you a better person, and give praise to God for the life he has in store for you!

When the going gets tough, love more! You are a pillar of strength. Your marriage is built on rock. It is solid, unyielding, concrete, dependable, trustworthy, and reliable. Reach into the deepest part of your spirit where you have a firm and sound foundation. Everyday through acts of love you will bring to light the strength and love in your core. You will love when others can’t because God loves you with all your faults. Go beyond your emotions and think with that righteous spirit inside you. You are made of rock! Hence, so is the strength of your marriage and home!

Prayer for Personal Leadership

Prayer for Personal Leadership

Lord ~

I pray that I will be forthcoming and helpful to those who reach out to me today.
I pray for strength to keep my path straight and lead others by example with the utmost integrity, holy insight and conscientious guidance.

I ask for veracity and truthfulness so that I may steadily offer genuine comfort to others.
I pray that my heart does not harden nor grow tired so that I may be blessed and reap powerful gifts and lessons from the wearisome and precious moments presented to me whether through trials or joy.

I pray for consistency and stability so that I may receive gifts of true satisfaction and authentic fulfillment that will come from helping others in deed and prayer, both of which I am capable.
I pray for a coherent and receptive mind as I study my bible and continue to train and educate myself with Your Word so that wisdom, hope and harmony are the first, last and unwavering provisions on my tongue.

I ask that you bless me with empathy, strong values and excellence in attitude so that only the finest offerings of advice and counseling from me are tendered for upright interpretation and encouraging reasoning.

I pray that my thoughts and words work together in unity and exemplify Your Will so that others will accept the clearest, choicest and divine of options to assimilate into their lives.
I praise and thank You Lord for blessing me with a peaceful and contented heart from the love You reveal to me daily in abundance.

I thank you Lord that through my service to others I will more intimately experience Your mercy, grace, love and the pleasures of life You desire for me.

Amen.

Inspired by:
2 Timothy 2:3 Bear your share of hardship along with me like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
2 Timothy 2:11-13 This saying is trustworthy:

If we have died with him
we shall also live with him.

If we persevere
we shall also reign with him.

But if we deny him
he will deny us.

If we are unfaithful
He remains faithful,
For he cannot deny himself.

If the truth be told . . .

If the truth be told . . .

When we are confronted with the truth, we must not look to our past beliefs or behavior for backing. When the truth is before you, you must humbly accept it, declare its truth, fix what you must in your lives and move forward in love and unity.

Inspired by: Acts 22:1-21 Look it up! It’s great reading!

A whole new world!

A whole new world!

Everyday, many times a day, sadly, we pass judgment on one another. We have all committed sinful acts that live in our “private” consciences. At other times in our lives and for others who are less mindful we may have never, or with regularity, examined our consciences. Therefore we lack or blatantly ignore our private “set of laws”, hence, our morals and values. Therefore, we may have convinced ourselves of our own righteousness and carry no guilt or, even worse, fear of God. However, there is a knot that twists in the pit of our stomach or an ache in our heart that wakes us and jolts us to a reality that we may or may not face. It is our God given conscience that reminds us of “right and wrong”. If we claim to be faithful people then we must live under God’s rules of love. God simply asks us to live in love and it is before Him that we will stand to be judged ourselves. If we judge then we shall be judged. Judgment does not equal unconditional love, kindness, support and forgiveness. You love God whom you have never seen. Therefore, just as God does, you must love your brothers and sisters whom you do see and who are children of that same God. Therefore, it is fitting to ask for what reason do we finger point and reveal other’s sinful acts before others when we, in fact, have our own sins grave or small to account for? To make ourselves feel better? To be the first to gossip and have credit for “the scoop of the day?” For retaliation or to see our brother or sister suffer and be publicly humiliated? Whatever the reason, none is good enough to justify passing judgment and passing it on by gossiping to hurt someone. There should be no “but” in our thought process with respect to love and forgiveness. “But you don’t understand, he . . .” We may know very well the people who have been affected, afflicted or hurt by another’s ordeal. Granted, there may be a time we may need to help another and get involved. What we need to become conscious of is for lack of a better phrase and forgive the harshness of the comment, “don’t put our noses in where they don’t belong.” Our family, friends and neighbors’ faults should not be the subject of conversations or the details of which should not be hashed over a meal, the water cooler or the news. If you have a personal grievance against another it must be addressed with them personally in an effort to resolve ”with love” unsettled matters. If we have chosen to turn our thoughts away from dealing directly with this grievance, perhaps there is a reason far beyond our understanding for having tucking it away in the recesses of our minds for days, months and even years. Past that personal encounter whether it resulted in resolve or un-acceptance of fault, we are called to pray for, forgive others, and still love. It is not ours place to spread gossip and cause undue additional harm to another. That person too has a conscience. We will never know what another feels, how they suffer in heart or body, how they would wash their hands of evil deeds, or how deep with regret one might live. It is not for us to crucify, torture and make one’s life miserable sometimes to the point of death of a spirit or literally of a life. Only God knows our sins, our hearts, and it is before Him that we all will answer.

Grave sin reveals itself like a blast of dynamite, while more menial sins may be camouflaged by our minds that have been desensitized to our evil ways and come across as ordinary acceptable ways of being. Because people are so detached from the church and their faith practices we lack an immediate and conscious responsibility for our everyday and extraordinary actions. We could easily be forgiven by God for a heinous crime by a truly repentful heart, and perhaps not be for less significant sins that we knowingly push to the side making less of them in our own minds, comparing ourselves to another.

So that we might become” awakened and improved followers” of Christ who gave us the example of perfection and the ways of God, let us examine our consciences as they may fall under the Ten Commandments that have been given to us as our foundation of God’s love.

We might pose questions to ourselves that resemble these:

Have I gone to church or prayed to God halfheartedly or unwillingly or perhaps simply stopped praying altogether? Did I use God’s name in vein (OMG), curse, poke fun of God, Jesus or any other saint or tell a lie under oath (“I swear” on the bible, my mother’s grave . . .)? Did I not go to Church on Sunday, work to an excess so as to inhibit the worship due to God? Have I been a bad example, showed a lack of respect to others, failed in my responsibilities to myself, spouse, children, friends or ill or lonely family members? Was I envious of others, angered easily, neglect my health, get drunk and get carried away by glutton? Did I rape, molest, murder, or desire revenge against someone who offended me, tease, quarrel, or cause harm by my actions or words? Did I have impure thoughts, conversations that solicited promiscuity, look at indecent pictures, and did I lead others to circumstances that could lead to sin? Did I have sex out of marriage or engage in heavy petting and necking while dating? Did I steal from work, family or friends? Did I neglect to pay my bills, harm anyone by deception to get my way, or am I materialistic? Did I tell lies (white or any other color)? Did I reveal a secret with undue cause? Did I willfully and with malice fail to protect another?

“Do not forsake the work of God,” said St. Paul in his letter to the Romans and thus the message to us is the same. We should not take Godly matters into our own hands. Therefore, upon an examination of our now conscious behavior we can “clean house” so to speak so we can set in place more firmly the strong foundation necessary to be not just “good,” but “great,” ambassadors of Christ.

We, God’s capable and equipped people, let us now, today, let go of our burdens, secrets, worries and cast our cares to the One who will take them. Praise God and be thankful and happy for the answers He provides to life’s ups and downs that we will see when we know better the love of God. Be part of what will bring harmony to our world. Forgive and be merciful and you will come to know God better. Jesus Christ, the Son of God was sent here to deliver an incredible message. We will meet His Father someday. You will be ready, because you live with the love of God in your heart!

Explore and get to know the depth of your love for God. In so doing, you will look upon the people of the world with different eyes. You are an influential person. In your daily life, you are surrounded by many people that you can influence. By your heightened awareness “put into practice” your spiritual actions and you will encourage and motivate others to follow not in your footsteps, but in those of the One who was sent herewith righteousness and glory. For God sent His Only Son to save the world! You are part of that world! A whole new world!



Inspired by Romans 14:1-23

Welcome anyone who is weak in faith, but not for disputes over opinions. One person believes that one may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. The one who eats must not despise the one who abstains, and the one who abstains must not pass judgment on the one who eats; for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on someone else's servant? Before his own master he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand. For one person considers one day more important than another, while another person considers all days alike. Let everyone be fully persuaded in his own mind. Whoever observes the day, observes it for the Lord. Also whoever eats, eats for the Lord, since he gives thanks to God; while whoever abstains, abstains for the Lord and gives thanks to God. None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself. For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. For this is why Christ died and came to life, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living. Why then do you judge your brother? Or you, why do you look down on your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of God;

for it is written: "As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bend before me, and every tongue shall give praise to God."
So (then) each of us shall give an account of himself (to God).

Then let us no longer judge one another, but rather resolve never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; still, it is unclean for someone who thinks it unclean. If your brother is being hurt by what you eat, your conduct is no longer in accord with love. Do not because of your food destroy him for whom Christ died. So do not let your good be reviled. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the holy Spirit; whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by others. Let us then pursue what leads to peace and to building up one another. For the sake of food, do not destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to become a stumbling block by eating; it is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. Keep the faith (that) you have to yourself in the presence of God; blessed is the one who does not condemn himself for what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because this is not from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.

Want a piece of this?

Want a “peace” of this?

Most of us feel as though we just couldn’t fit another activity or another person into our lives. Rather than living a life we enjoy, our lives seem like a bag stuffed to its brim, ripping at the seams, and like a ball rushing and spiraling down a steep hill. Oh where, oh where, will it all stop? As much as we gripe and complain about all we have to do we still manage to squeeze in the next emergency or favor for someone that was not on the list. At the end of our busy days, we might breathe deep releasing anguish, sigh in exasperation, cry to express our emotions, laugh to bring relief to a heavy heart, feel dead and void that tells of our sadness or depression, and on some unique days feel somewhat content and accomplished.

But at the end of the day what brings you peace? For that matter what gives you peace in the morning, at the peak of day, at your most trying times, and at rest. “Peace,” you ask? “Can I buy that? Does it come in a bottle by the gallon?” Many of us do not know where to obtain it. We might jokingly and superficially question, “Really, where do I find it? Is it in my workplace, my head, at home, on the telephone, in my bed, at the market, in the car, in the shopping mall, in my pocket, or on my nose? Where?”

Society does not spend their time seeking peace. You might say we seek chaos. Yes “chaos.” Chaos is disorder, confusion, commotion, disarray, turmoil, madness, mess, unruliness, shall I go on? The funny part is that these things are hard to live with and unwelcoming, yet we choose to greet madness over peace, simplicity, and righteousness.

It is easier to ignore something that is not jumping up and hitting us in the face. It’s easier to remain the same, because we know “we can do that”! Jesus is our source of peace and He is not into violence. In fact, he suffered at our hands and didn’t fight. No, He’s a different sort. He’s waiting for you to come and when you are ready “He will bring you rest.”

Peace is missing from this world’s people. It has not found its way or been accepted into enough hearts. Peace may be what you just might be lacking too. Your heart ironically was designed by a “special heart maker.” He’s the cream of the crop in his field. His name is God. You might have heard about Him. There are many books written about Him. This same “heart maker” is also a fabulous “gift giver” and is very generous. You should get to know Him too! Amazingly enough, He made the heart so that it would know love at its greatest and would find peace in everyday. It has the potential to beat at a healthy steady pace and to keep a rhythm and warm spiritual feeling that is music to God’s ears and incredibly produces an abundance of grace from His heart. This heart if used properly would avoid many less than desirable heartaches and surely would make resting at night a breeze. Did you know that our special hearts have a special feature. They easily adapt to change and accept goodness whole-heartedly (No pun intended J.). In fact, goodness makes them flourish. However, unbeknownst to us, it is being limited and constricted by the way we live our lives.

Wonderful peace comes at the expense of giving up trials, grief, worries, sadness, busyness, and gossiping. Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. Peace is calm, quiet, stillness, tranquility, silence, harmony, and serenity. Do you think you might be ready for a different way of living? Do you think you might know why you don’t know it? Why you don’t experience it? Do ya think it’s something you might want a whole lot of? Ughhh, yeah!

This generation is at a wonderful crossroads in time. We have the luxury of learning and knowing the church’s history. We have modern technology that puts information at our finger tips and wonderful historians and writers who have documented our faith so that we would have truth and the answers at hand.

It’s time people for a bona fide “time out”. It’s time to get to know Jesus! He is the Prince of Peace! Jesus came so that we might have hope, love, true happiness and an eternal life (of course “eternal” comes after this life).

So where do you find Jesus? Well, you can call on him in your workplace, in your head, at home, on the telephone, in your bed, at the market, in the car, and in the shopping mall. (Well maybe not in your pocket or your nose.) Jesus is everywhere and is tuned in to you 24/7.
Jesus worked on generations of people to build churches so that you could spend time with Him. Have you spent time in one lately? He’s also touched many hearts with “a calling” to His work. These “called individuals” conduct bible studies, organize and keep motivated groups of faith and church ministries to help others.

You too have “a calling” but you’ve been too busy to hear, see and feel it. Take time out for you and find peace and discover “your calling.” Finding peace will not take away things from your “to do” list, but it will put life’s priorities into perspective. You will learn to eliminate useless worries, tasks that are time wasters and will be able to better focus on enjoying your life. One more thing that you will notice. You will be drawn to a whole group of people whom you’ve never noticed before and will become aware that they noticeably “seem different and happy.”
In church every Sunday, there are passages shared from the bible that tells us about the past. Take that message and keep it in your heart, in your thoughts, and in your actions all week. Use different resources to obtain readings that you can incorporate daily into your life. Be mindful of the day that these wonderful actions become habit. Imagine the day when Jesus is your biggest influence. Someone one day will say to you, “You seem different. How are you doing?” You will smile and respond, “I am fabulous. Life is good. I am happy, thankful, and grateful for all my blessings.” It will be then, in that moment, and many other moments and times in your life that you will know that you have found PEACE!

Peace be with you! With out new hearts, let us go in love and serve the Lord!


Inspired by 1 Sm. 3:1-0, 19-20

During the time young Samuel was minister to the Lord under Eli, a revelation of the Lord was uncommon and vision infrequent. One day Eli was asleep in his usual place. His eyes had lately grown so weak that he could not see. The lamp of God was not yet extinguished, and Samuel was sleeping in the temple of the Lord where the ark of God was. The Lord called to Samuel, who answered, “Here I am.”

Samuel ran to Eli and said, “Here I am. You called me.” “I did not call you,” Eli said. “Go back to sleep.” So he went back to sleep. Again the Lord called Samuel, who rose and went to Eli. “Here I am,” he said. “You called me.” Bu Eli answered, “I did not call you, my son. Go back to sleep.” At that time Samuel was not familiar with the Lord, because the Lord had not revealed anything to him as yet. The Lord called Samuel again, for the third time. Getting up and going to Eli, he said, “Here I am. You called me. Then Eli understood that the Lord was calling the youth. So Eli said to Samuel, “Go to sleep, and if you are called, reply, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” When Samuel went to sleep in his place, the Lord came and revealed his presence, calling out as before, “Samuel, Samuel!” Samuel answered, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”

Samuel grew up, and the Lord was with him, not permitting any word of his to be without effect. Thus all Israel from Dan to Beersheba came to know that Samuel was an accredited prophet of the Lord.

I AM LOVE . . . I AM LOVE . . . I AM

I AM LOVE . . . I AM LOVE . . . I AM

From heaven comes my spirit and strength
From God above I bring blessings to you
I possess great power beyond imagination
And miraculous works to help you

You are loved beyond human comprehension
Pay it forward from the depth of your heart
Protection from harm and guidance will come
Through my grace you’ll know where to start

Believe in Me and Pray to Your Father
For God’s great Kingdom surely awaits you
Trust in me for all your needs
I am my Father’s Son and will not fail you

I shall dwell in your heart through your faith
And will go to great lengths to bless you
Treasure your life for I died for your sake
I am your Lord, the Son of God who loves you

I am love . . . I am love . . .
I am.

Inspired by Ephesians 3:1-21

MY IMMINENT PRAYER

MY IMMINENT PRAYER
(A personal prayer of hope and love)

Lord Jesus Christ,

Today I receive your love for my life
Without sin I will keep your commands.

I reserve your hope for times of despair
With my life I trust in you Lord.

When conflict arrives and sits at my door
I’ll seek justice and truth for my tongue.

In good times and bad I’ll seek a true heart
With Your compassion and love at my core.

When self consumes me I’ll pray for your light
You will guide me though darkness and more.

When the storm is calm and all is good
I give thanks to You, my ever loving Lord.

Inspired by:

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
On your own intelligence rely not;
In all your ways be mindful of him,
And he will make straight your paths.


Proverbs 3:19-24

The Lord by wisdom founded the earth
Established the heavens by understanding

By his knowledge the depths break open
And the clouds drop down dew

My son, let not these slip out of your sight
Keep advice and counsel in view

So will they be life to your soul
And an adornment for your neck

Then you may securely go your way
Your foot will never stumble

When you lie down, you need not be afraid
When you rest your sleep will be sweet.

Keep looking out the window

Have you ever prepared dinner and had just enough food for those family members you were planning for when behold another guest or two or three show up at dinner time? Woah, what will I do?

The options are to open up a can of vegetables, add a salad, or dig through the refrigerator as quickly see what you can toss together asap. Well, even if you can’t find anything, isn’t it amazing that when you bring out the extra plates (switching to smaller plates helps) and divide the food up, the portions would be smaller of course, the conversation would be lovely and everyone would “truly be satisfied.”

Or maybe you experienced this – what you’ve eaten for dinner last night was the last thing you had in the pantry to make a meal. There is no more money to go to the market for tomorrow’s dinner. You know you can cook up an egg, or eat a bowl of cereal, or break out the “pb&j”, but where oh where will dinner come from.

Suddenly, your sister calls and say, “hey stop by I made some rice, beans, carne asada and “chile”, pick it up on your way home from work.” As God as my witness I have broken out into immediate prayer giving thanks.

That’s the kind of God we have. An on time God. One who cares, one who loves. What’s my point? “Don’t worry – be happy – be confident – God will provide! He has a h-u-g-e family and he’s got them to help out. He’s working it for you!

Have faith and patience for your blessings. They will come. Keep looking out the window – there might be one there now!

Inspired by Mark 6:34-44

When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. By now it was already late and his disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already very late. Dismiss them so that they can go to their surrounding farms and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” He said to them in reply, “Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Are we to buy two hundred days’ wages worth of food and give it to them to eat?” He asked them, “Howe many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out they said, “Five loaves and two fish.” So he gave orders to have them sit down in groups on the green grass. The people took their places in rows by hundreds and by fifties. Then, taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broken the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; he also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied. And they picked up twelve wicker baskets full of fragments and what was left of the fish. Those who ate of the loaves were five thousand men.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All! “What,” your thinking “Merry Christmas? Christmas is over!”

Did you take your tree down, return unwanted or ill-fitting gifts? Have you gone out shopping to spend those great gift cards or catch the sale of the year? Do you feel like all the shopping, trips to the market, hosting and attending parties, over eating and staying up late has caught up to you? Have you made all your new year’s resolutions? Have you already broken or forgotten most of them? Have you gone back to that “same ‘ol, same ‘ol routine” you had just a few weeks ago? Is your mind already into thoughts about how you will pay for the extravagant spending you just indulged in? Are you thinking about stocking up on Valentine’s Day cards and candy that already line the stores shelves? Are you gearing up and setting the dark tone for grueling days at work knowing you’ll have no days off until you accrue more time?

We are just a few days into the New Year and many of us have closed our minds to Christmas as quickly as the tree was disposed of and the decorations had been put away. Although we had the best of intentions to keep the spirit alive, already our gay spirits are waning and we feel no more renewed than last year. Our minds ignorantly or with conscious malice are already on automatic pilot reserving discouragement, rehearsing unbecoming comments, and perfecting ill attitudes to prepare ourselves for the inevitable broken promises that might include dieting or eating better, spending less money, cutting up the plastic cards, no gossiping, and being nicer to everyone no matter their attitude. Ha! That didn’t last long, what a couple of days or maybe just a few hours or as long as the beer or flavor of the month “martini” lasted?

We must not let the spirit of Christmas leave us! Taking an active part in educating ourselves and practicing daily with the Word of God as our guide is crucial so that we may be stronger people. We must believe and accept that we can live full, productive and meaningful lives when we clutch on to compassion, patience, kindness, honesty, integrity, and love shown to us by Jesus Christ.

As the days go by let us join together and continue to acknowledge our neighbors at the church, supermarket, gas station, hair dresser, and the like. More than before we can with deeper meaning say thank you and offer comforting care packages from the sincerest place in our heart to the men and women who serve our country, and be kind to worker’s who are serving us in the stores, restaurants, and businesses as a whole. We can with sincerity continue to extend wishes to all for a good day. As we extend our love day after day, courtesy in the parking lots and highways will increase and forgiveness among family and friends will become easier. We can individually, or join in groups, to pray for the sick and for those who the Lord has called. What a delight that nice warm smiles and “just because” visits will carry on. Oh, and the talk around the water cooler will be about what a wonderful thing that the supervisor did for the worker who almost lost his job, or praise about the woman who deserved the raise, and the celebration of the wonderful way we pulled together as a group to achieve success of the job at hand.

“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!” “Hi, it’s a beautiful day to be out, isn’t it?! You enjoy it now!” “Thank you for all your help “______” (read their name tag). I appreciate your assistance.” “What a pretty child you have, she looks just like you.” “Please, go ahead of me, I insist.” “Are you sisters? It’s wonderful that you are spending time together. Have a blessed day.” “Aren’t children wonderful? Enjoy them! The years go by so quickly.” “Hello. How are you doing today? What a beautiful smile you have. Thank you for brightening up my day!” “I will pray for your loved one. God is love and so I love you.” Simple greetings, heartfelt prayers, great attitudes and sincere wishes change everything don’t they?

“Change”, it all starts with you! We shouldn’t have to wait until Christmas, New Year’s, Easter or some other specially celebrated religious or non-religious calendar day of the year to become better people.

Take the initiative yourself! Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move or offer the first nicety. Fair or unfair who cares! You be the one to begin to rebuild, reconnect and make strong the links to the fast fading broken chain of kindness. Keep that Christmas spirit alive every day of the year!

And by the way, why aren’t you still celebrating Christmas? Okay, perhaps some of you have, but what about the rest of you?

What is that? You are reminding me that it’s January and you think it’s too late to be still celebrating and wishing one and all a Merry Christmas?

Agh, actually it’s not too late. Because, right now – today – we, God’s church, are still in the midst of the Season of Christmas.

Many Christians around the world celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December and only on that day. Actually, in the church, the Christmas Season runs from Christmas until the Sunday after Epiphany or after January 6, inclusive. We may not necessarily know about the “Season of Christmas” unless we went to church everyday or on Sundays, or recall this from parochial school or catechism, possess a religious calendar, or follow a daily roman missal or daily reading via the internet.

It’s interesting to note and amazing to think that we have what seems like an endless pool of information available through the “internet”, a contemporary useful tool that allows us to obtain information through a simple string or word search. We have a responsibility to choose to make good use of our time on the internet. We can responsibly take advantage of the numerous resources and educational sites available to aid us in learning about God’s Word, the Church and ways to strengthen our faith. We must use technology responsibly – we have the tools to continue to communicate, learn and advance ourselves for the good of mankind. What incredible gifts God has given us – virtuous intellect of the mind and strong and wise will of the spirit. Let’s pray that one day we will find that God related sites will be the most popular researched sites on the web!

Perhaps, this year of all years, you have never been more tired and/or feeling less than optimistic about the future. Perhaps you are feeling tapped out on the pressures, duties, and monotonous routine of life. You may be ready to break away from the “rat race” and sit still and immerse yourself in peace and quiet. You are more than willing to release the troubles that weigh heavy on your heart. You are prepared to turn your mind over completely to hear only the whispers of serenity. This is the ideal occasion to take a new route. I’m so glad to know you are eager to get started. Let’s do it!

Find that place where you can be alone. Close your eyes until the noise is gone . . . . and then, open them again.

Can you hear the clock ticking? The creaking of the house? Do you hear the water dripping on the faucet (try not to think about the fact that you’ve got to repair it).

Breathe rhythmically in and out. Clear your mind until all thoughts about what you have to do today leave you . . . Release all the tension that is built up in your shoulders. Lift one shoulder and roll it back, then the other until you feel relaxed. . . Slowly tilt your head forward, back, side to side, and then gently around in a circle until you feel at ease . . . Place one of your palms lightly on your chest. Hold your palm in place until you feel the rhythm of your heart beat. Remain in this position and state of mind until you can recognize, hear, and move in concert with that living part of the breath of life that God has given you.

Breathe slowly and intentionally. Allow the peace to embrace and comfort you and accept the love of God as it touches you through the powerful and awe inspiring silence - His gift - the only thing you are now aware of.

Now, let God – alone - into your thoughts. Allow His presence to manifest in your heart with each breath that you take. Thank Him for this wonderful gift of peace. Welcome Him into this part of your day. Feel His goodness warm your heart and fill your spirit.

Imagine now a heavenly slide show. Put into each unblemished frame all the wonderful blessings you have received over the past weeks . . . Thank God for allowing you to visit with family members you have not seen in a long time and for getting visitors home safely. Thank Him for the gifts, cards and phone calls you received through the generosity of others and the wonderful presents you were able to give . . . Offer thanks to God for your mental health that can still feed you spiritually, and for a body that breaths of life and is proof that you are in fact a living creation and blessing of God.

Now – with faith and passion wholly offer “yourself” to God in solemn and humble prayer.

Dear Lord,

Take me your son or daughter,
a sinner, and heal me.

Forgive me for the times
I turned my back to You,
those days
I stepped away from You,
those moments
I doubted Your mercy
Or Your love for me.

Thank you Lord for blessing me
and my family with precious time together.
I invite you into my life
more fully as You,
by the grace of Your Spirit,
reveal Yourself to me now.

My heart receives your goodness
as I find my way closer to You today
and in the blessing of the days to come.

And I pray to you Jesus Christ,
that through You, I ask my heavenly Father
to give me strength to endure my present trials
and those to come with piety, dignity,
love, and tolerance.

Jesus bless me with hope for myself to imitate Your unwavering
Selflessness and touch with me your heavenly wisdom.
Open my mind and make ready my heart
to be receptive, helpful and compassionate toward others
as I learn to walk in your remarkable footsteps.

Help me Jesus to make time for honoring and praising You
every day, many times a day, as You are my Savior
who will protect me, a believer in You.

Give me strength to speak confidently and
boldly of you when opportunities arise
to my spouse, parents, children,
friends and strangers, so that they
may see my love for You and they too
will become mindful of Your presence
and may be blessed and welcoming recipients
of the love You have reserved for each of them.

Grant me the wisdom to always remember
that I must do my part to bring harmony
and live in peace among your people.
And through you I ask God for the strength
to not waiver in my confidence that
You, My God, will do all that I cannot.

It is You who faithfully provides for me
and uses my circumstances
that are good, challenging,
bearing sickness and great suffering
so that I may receive and recognize
Your Will for my existence.

It is You who arranges my life
and the lives of many to touch,
interact, build, strengthen and
make greater our spirit in your perfect time.

Jesus, I ask much in your name and ask God to have mercy on my soul.

Amen.

I can feel the unity in mind and spirit growing again my friends, Christmas is not over! It lives inside of us!

Now that we’ve got a spiritual prayer at our fingertips, let’s work on a spiritual plan. Perhaps with a little bit of Church history and some thought provoking ideas we might be better prepared for next Christmas.

Within a few days Immediately following Thanksgiving, be prepared for Advent (the four weeks that precede Christmas). It is during this preparatory time we are called to ready ourselves for the joyous day of Christmas by prayers of humble devotion and commitment. The daily masses and other solemn, mindful, and prayerful opportunities offer us time for private reflections and mediations. The churches during Advent are often decorated beautifully with wreaths and evergreen trees that symbolizes not only the birth of Christ over 2,000 years ago but also places emphasis on the new and everlasting life brought through Christ in His second coming and the hope of eternal life.

Attend more masses, or better yet be a regular Sunday attendee throughout the year. Don’t go alone, bring someone along with you! Masses are designed to give us the opportunity to remember how Christ died for us and to share in the Eucharist that reminds us of God’s gift of life and hope for our future.

Then with longing ready hearts and great anticipation - Christmas Day will arrive in all its glory! Incredibly on Christmas morning you will be present in church, together with an unusually overwhelming crowd. The church pews will again be filled to their capacity with people. However, this time, as your faith is stronger than before you will feel and exude a glorious aura of joy that will hover above the congregation and its holy allure will permeate the air that rises up into the ceiling rafters.

And finally in church or your home with perhaps a table top or life size replica of the nativity scene as described in the bible you will individually, privately and possibly publicly imagine how Christ’s birth might have looked to the world at that time, what it meant to them, and ultimately now, what His birth means to you today.

By next year you will be in a heightened spiritual place and will react differently when the priest addresses the congregation on Christmas morning, “It’s wonderful to have the church full with all of you here today. However, we do have mass every Sunday.” There will be a few light chuckles and a lot of swallowing hard and a stilling silence that will be oddly audible. But this time you will be sitting in the presence of God with a defined elevated level of faith and adoration in your heart. (FYI - we have a daily opportunity to give praise and receive “Our Lord” at communion everyday of the year. There is a mass every day in the Catholic Church –and a few hours to choose from too – who knew we could go to church on our days off, before or after work? – it’s a great way to work on a closer relationship with God, don’t you think?)

You will find that the masses during the Christmas Season are as joyous as Christmas Day as the church continues to celebrate Christ’s birth each Sunday in praise, hymns and prayer.

If you must remove your tree from your home after Christmas Day because it has become too dry for safety reasons, leave in place your nativity scene and other decorations that will remind you that Christmas is still being celebrated and that your heart may remain joyous through the day of the Epiphany celebrated in the Church.

Since Christmas Day during the Catholic Church masses we have heard many accounts of the days that preceded Christ and testimonies of those who told about the Savior’s coming, the details of the day of Christ’s humble birth, and also the special celebrations that followed. We also have the beautiful words written by John that read in part,

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . “,

“And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw His glory, the glory of the Father’s only-begotten Son, full of grace and truth . . .”,

“No one has ever seen God. The only-begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed Him.”

Heavy, moving, and life changing!

(these and other readings are available in our bibles, through the use of a “Daily Roman Missal” or could be viewed on the internet. I knew you were wondering – I’m one step ahead of ya! What are friends for?)

The common underlying thread that is prevalent in all these accounts during Christmas Season is that God’s truth was revealed about a Savior for the world and that those who have love, hope, faith, and believe in Jesus will become children of God. “As proof that you are children, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father!’ So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.” Gal. 4:6-7. We have been left with a legacy of powerful words. Isn’t it incredible to know you are a part of God’s great Kingdom!

In our modern times there are very few testimonies recorded that compare to the life changing accounts written in the bible. However, people do have personal stories about how God has touched their lives. It is only through a close daily relationship that we might be able to recognize God’s presence and share our own stories with others. Part of the benefit of sharing personal accounts is that we might bring hope to others through our own experiences.
We do not have to wait until the ringing in of a new year to deepen our relationship with God. Every day, with every breath and in every circumstance whether good, bad or indifferent, we have an opportunity to strengthen our relationship and understand the power of the Holy Trinity using the gifts of our mind, body and spirit. In all these things that have been afforded us by God’s grace let us use them to honor God, imitate Jesus and to live lives like the Holy Family.

Allow your faith in God to show on the outside as you respond to life’s joys, ordinary instances, and harmful inequities with actions that depict faith, righteousness, caring, and most of all unconditional love.

During these beautiful days of Christmas, and every day, let us open our hearts and allow the miracle of the Season of Christmas to change us forever.