I Am In The Right Place

I Am In The Right Place


The walls look to have a cast of gray, although the paint is a shade of white. Even though I have more than enough lamps, there’s still not enough light in the house. I look forward to the delivery of mail because sometimes the young man will chat with me for a minute. My dog died 10 years ago, his bed still lies there. The evenings are the hardest time of my day. I miss my wife. I have no children. I can’t sleep in my bed. This chair is enough for me.

* * *

The huge crowds’ roar was so voluminous that it sounded like an immense machine’s drone. The people in the stadium stood side by side clad in their team colors.

I was only one of thousands who felt the powerful connection to my neighbor. We stood proud as if we were an army who had seen our team through a war and came up in victory.

As we looked down to the players on the field we witnessed the connection between the squad of men. Their determined eyes, strong jaws and lips spoke of a combination of grit, willpower and pride. Tonight we knew we would witness every ounce of the blood, sweat, and fortitude it took for the team to get to this climactic triumphant point.

* * *
The devout members of the choir had practiced week after week until they had their parts down to perfection. They sang in their cars, in the shower and in their sleep striving for flawless notes. I had no doubt that the sound would be miraculous.

When the first subtle utterance of holy and downy voices drifted up to the cathedral ceiling rafters my heart leaped with unreserved joy. The incredible six part harmony caused the hair on my arms to stand up on end. Breathtakingly, the piano, organ, drums, chimes, and symbols delightfully and magically filled in tiniest of apt spaces.

Uncharacteristically, the people in the pews sat up tall and their attention was such that the only sounds were those coming from the gifted musicians and those special angelic vocal intonations. I was emotionally moved beyond any faithful moment I could ever recall.

Then, divinely, it happened. Touched by an extraordinary blessed spirit that had finally made its way to the surface of my being, emotive tears fell from my once conventional eyes. Without thinking I was guided and smoothly slid from my seat and slipped into a genuflection foreign to me. I fell to my knees, my inner spirit in awe, and I felt for the first time the presence of God.

* * *
In our everyday lives it is easy to get caught up in depression or the tedious tasks of life and seek no company further than the walls of our homes. Living this way can make us feel disconnected, lonely and like prisoners in our own dwellings. In contrast to others who seem to be able to easily connect and adapt to more interactive lifestyles. Some people thrive on excitement and seek to be a part of a movement or a celebration that takes then out of their ordinary existence.

Mindlessly and dangerously we can place ourselves in the midst of chaos, commotion, and gossip. There are so many ways to fill voids, kill time, seek companionship and find our purpose.

Belonging is a natural yearning of the heart. The heart’s purpose is to love. God, Its creator, is love.

Love is belonging no matter who we are. Our age, skin color, occupation, monetary and social status have no bearing on love.

To know the greatest depth of love is to know God. We must take time from our solitude, busyness, work, and play and get to know Him.

Enjoy the sunrises and sunsets that incredibly takes us from one day to the next. Appreciate the beauty and scents of meadows of flowers, fruit orchards and forests. Marvel at the twinkle of the illuminated stars and planets tucked in the night sky. Savor the precious water that sustains us. Exercise your body and give it required rest so that this incredible miraculous creation of God will work for you as He intended.

Be an active part and positive voice in God’s Church. His Church is where you are. It consists of who you socialize with and what you choose to talk about.

God also invites you to share your love and worship in His Church in your neighborhood, in the next county, state or even in a foreign land.

Most importantly, you can enjoy God’s presence not only on Sundays, but everyday of the week, and at any moment you choose.

“For He is our God, and we are the people He shepherds, the flock he guides.” Psalm 95:7.

You belong when you put yourself in the right place, among loving people, that causes the best spirit to come from you.

LiVe LiKe YoU BeLiEvE!

Tis the Season

Tis the Season


The aroma of turkey fills the house and delectable desserts are abundant. Joyful holiday music makes for jolly attitudes and tasks seem easier. People shop for the perfect gift.

In the Catholic Church the start of the Advent Season begins this Sunday. Use these days that lead up to Christmas to recall what Jesus came here to do for you. Include Him in your thoughts and plans. After all, it’s all about Him!

Enjoy quiet prayerful moments. Worship in Church and spend time with family, friends, the sick and the lonely.

God’s love for you is absolute. He proved His love by giving His Only Son for You. He is present at every straight and treacherous turn, in every surprise and roadblock, at live savings and life taking moments. As sure as the sun will rise, the moon will shine, and the earth will produce food and water, God will be there.

Look for Him, He’s everywhere. Feel His love, it’s always protecting you. Take His hand, He’s always leading you.

There is so much to be thankful for. The Lord knows, “I am thankful that you do not reject the words that come to me from Him. God bless you.

LiVe LiKe YoU BeLiEvE!



Inspired by Luke 21:29-31

Then Jesus told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.”

You’re a Superstar!

You’re a Superstar!


“I wouldn’t know what to say. I want to help her, but I know nothing about these kinds of things.” “I can’t come to his defense although I know he’s right. It’s pitiful, I know. But I’m afraid of making others angry.”

We hide behind excuses and impose unnecessary pressure on ourselves while disappointing others for the wrong reasons. Stand up to a good and moral challenge and buck up when someone desperately needs your help. The rights words will come when your heart is in the right place. This is no rehearsal, you are always in the spotlight. Be an extraordinary superstar!



Inspired by Luke 21:12-19

Jesus said to his disciples, “But before all this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. This will give you an opportunity to testify. So make up your minds not to prepare your defense in advance; for I will give you words and wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to withstand or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, by relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name. But not a hair on your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls.”

Crazy Love

Crazy Love


“He drives me crazy. I don’t know if I can do this anymore.” “Sweetheart, it is not he who is difficult. Stop trying to change him into you. He is a good man. His character and love for you and your child are greater than any of his faults. Love who he is.

Know what you can count on. God loves you and sends you blessings every day. He has a place for you. The end of life will come. Love today what God created. See love rather than conflict. Turn away from nit-picky judgments of others that keep you from being free to enjoy your blessings.

Inspired by Luke 21:5-9.

When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, Jesus said, “As for these things that you see the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down.” They asked him, “Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign that this is about to take place?” And he said, “Beware that you are not led astray; for many will come in my name and say, “I am he!’ and, ‘The time is near!’ Do not go after them. When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately.

The Outer Limits

The Outer Limits


“Can you spare a dime?” “Sorry, this is my last 20 bucks.” “I’ve got nowhere to go.” “You must have someone you can stay with.”

When and how do you give? Could you give more than what you can safely spare? Could you offer a warm comfortable bed to a person suffering a hardship? Go to the outer limits of your being. Give beyond your comfort zone, reach outside your security, and dig deeper than the surplus in your pocketbook. God blesses those who bless others. Your gifts to others will be remembered by the Lord.

Luke 21:1-4


Jesus looked up and saw rich people putting their gifts into the treasury; he also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put all in she had to live on.”

Because I Can

Because I Can



Because I have hands
I will cook you a meal
and enjoy the thought
of pleasing you


Because I can see
I look forward to making
your day easier

Because I can hear

I can give comfort
in your time of need

Because I can speak
I will offer encouraging words
to help you succeed

Because you are you
and I am me
I will hug, kiss and welcome you home

Because I can.

Feed Your Spirit

“Stop already! You are so negative!”

When the urge to gripe strikes you, let it do just that. What you feed your soul comes out of your mouth!


Feed your spirit with love so that your words are hopeful to the ears, encouraging to the heart, and something pleasing to emulate.

Inspired by Psalm 33(34):1-4

I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes it boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.

No Pressure

No Pressure

“How could you want to help her, she hates you?” “I mean it. If you help him again, I’m out of here!”

Don’t buckle under foolish pressure. It is right to help another even if it is not appreciated and others do not understand. Pray that through your consistent example of giving without condition the difficult will be transformed.


Inspired by Luke 19:1-10

Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through it. A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax-collector and was rich. He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see him, because he was going to pass that way. When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. All who saw it began to grumble and said, “He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner.” Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, half of my possessions Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.” Then Jesus said to him, “Today I will pay back four times as much.” Then Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost.”

I Can See Clearly Now

I can see clearly now

We don’t need our eyesight to get excited about free food, a day off work, or an unexpected bonus! However, we do need our spiritual vision so that we can get excited about Jesus being so close that we can taste heaven!

Inspired by Luke 18:35-43

As he approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” Then he shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord let me see again.” Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.

These Precious Moments

These Precious Moments


“Why did he get the job? I’ve been here longer.” “How could you die and leave me! There was so much I wanted to say to you!”

Longevity isn’t the element that makes you valuable or your relationships precious.

Give beyond expectations and savor the relationships you have today, so if tomorrow does not come you will have no regrets.



Inspired by Luke 17:26-36

Just as it was in the days of Noah, so too it will be in the days of the Son of Man. They were eating and drinking, and marrying and being given in marriage until the day Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed all of them. Likewise, just as it was in the days of Lot: they were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building, but on the day that Lot left Sodom, it rained fire and sulfur from heaven and destroyed all of them-it will be like that on the day that the Son of Man is revealed. On that day, anyone on the housetop who has belongings in the house must not come down to take them away; and likewise anyone in the field must not turn back. Remember Lot’s wife. Those who try to make their life secure will lose it, but those who lose their life will keep it. I tell you, on that night there will be two in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. There will be two women grinding meal together; one will be taken and the other left.

Praise! Praise! Praise!

Praise! Praise! Praise!

“Yeah, good things happen for me, but never like that.” “Who am I going to thank. I did all the work.”


It’s not the size of your blessings that should be what matters. Be thankful because you were blessed with an outcome in your favor, a peaceful night or a matter that changed your life. God goes to great trouble to line up lives, using their sufferings, wealth and hearts to help you.

Nurture your soul and develop a thankful spirit that praises God for even the most insignificant matters.

Inspired by Luke 17:11-19

On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they called out, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” When he saw them, he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were made clean. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. He prostrated himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked “Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.”

Journey With the Saints

The goal of all our undertaking should not be so much a task perfectly completed but the accomplishment of the will of God.

St. Therese of Lisieux

The heart is rich when it is content, and it is always content when its desires are fixed on God.  Nothing can bring greater happiness than doing God's will for the love of God.

Blessed Miguel Febres Cordero-Munoz

I know my own and my own know me.

“I know my own and my own know me.”

What kind influence do you have over your spouse, parents, children, friends, even strangers? Are you a virtuous leader in your home, church, or workplace?

By God's you have the ability to effectively sway others. Set high standards for yourself. Don’t ask others to accept you, your morals and values as anything less that something upright, honest and upstanding.

God gave us Jesus, the Good Shepherd, to imitate. Jesus gave us hope and an eternal future. This same hope took hold of the disciples, everyday men - His sheep, and they were willing to put themselves out there for all to see, support and ridicule. The disciples believed and carried out an extraordinary mission in the name of Christ. Today, this same remarkable mission is yours to carry out!

God so loved the world that He gave his Only Son. With that same incredible power of love, be an outstanding model for others to imitate.

Inspired by John 10:11-16

Jesus said to the Pharisees, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away-and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.”

The Best of You

The Best of You

“I have to let you go. You have not done the job you were hired to do.” “It’s too late. You’ve had many opportunities to step it up.”

A paycheck, position on a team, a part in a play or a relationship is not given or shared for a complacent attitude or mediocre performance. The reward should be well earned and not taken for granted.

Sleep, mindlessness and rest are for the night. The day light is for the world to see God’s best work in you.

Inspired by John 10:11-16

Then Jesus said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. So he summoned him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.’ Then the manager said to himself, ‘What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do so that, when I am dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.’ So, summing his master’s debtors one by one, he asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ He answered, ‘A hundred jugs of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it fifty.’ Then he asked another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘A hundred containers of wheat.’ He said to him, ’Take your bill and make it eighty.’ And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light.”