The Coming Year Is Safe In God's Hands

The Coming Year Is Safe In God’s Hands Something to think and pray about this week-as shared in “Sacred Space” A year of grace is ending, and a new one is beginning. Before I ponder what the new year may bring, let me light my lamp and look back on the past year. There I can discover the deft touches of God, and this will give me confidence that the year now unfolding will be equally rich. I try first to notice some of the good things that came my way. ‘From God comes all that is good’ (James 1:17). I will find God in the good! God shares his goodness lavishly, as the sun shares its warmth and light. So many good things have come my way: life itself, health, friendship, times of joy and happiness, kindnesses, special graces, a sense of God. (I remember to include Sacred Space!) As the psalmist says in admiration, ‘You crown the year with your goodness’ (Psalm 65:11). I become grateful for all the good given me, and for the good I did myself. But not all has been good! Misfortunes, illnesses, suffering in one shape or another came my way. My reflection deepens as I notice how in at least some cases, good has come from bad situations. God’s hand works delicately to bring good out of the evil we create. This is shown dramatically in Jesus’ Passion, and it radiates through every day. God accepts what we do badly, then sets to work to integrate it into the divine story. For this I thank God again. The coming year is safe in God’s hands. Text taken from Sacred Space

In The Wake Of Christmas There Is More To Give And Celebrate

It is December 26 and sadly people are saying “Finally, Christmas is over!” Some fresh trees, still decorated, are set at the curb for the trash along with the balled up wrappings and torn boxes. Even gifts that that the receiver deemed useless are now perishing and taking up space in the garbage can. Just days after Christmas decorations for Valentine’s Day line the shelves in the stores and the remnants of a retailer’s heaven, rather than symbols of Christ’s birth, has whittled down to a small markdown table or isle. Just before New Year’s Day there is barely a hint of joy left in voices and the cheer that filled houses just last week are no more. Gone in many households are the ongoing implementations of charitable acts, kindnesses toward a neighbor or stranger, and the excitement of being a model of Jesus, and the one to step forward to love and forgive a trespasser has all but died away. It’s as if a storm has hit us and left in its wake only fragments of evidence of a rush of a holiday season. Some feel relieved of stressed filled days, hastened purchases and sometimes obligatory cooking and preparing for a visit all for a single day or night with family and friends. The extra chairs rented for some churches in the hopes that people would come to worship may have depleted their surplus and now in hindsight recorded as an unnecessary expense. Does the world realize that 4 weeks prior to Christmas we should have been preparing our hearts, our homes, and our attitudes for a life change. Did we feel The Holy Spirit through our daily prayers, requests for needs and petitions of thanksgiving? Did we experience transformation from the fruit of our good works to a degree that it became a habit without any thoughts to remind us to be upright, decent and moral? Did our sacrifices of selflessness and eye opening humble experiences charge and change us, peaking on Christmas Day? Did we spend time in prayer, reflecting on what the birth of Christ means in our lives and what effect His birth has upon our ultimate demise? Every year the Catholic Church celebrates Liturgical Cycles and Holy Days. In particular, during the Advent and Christmas season the church, the people, have an opportunity to celebrate, worship, and grow in spirit and in our relationship with God, Jesus and The Holy Spirit. Every year following Christmas Eve the church celebrates and honors the Nativity of the Lord, the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, The Epiphany of the Lord, and The Baptism o f the Lord. Where is it that we are spending our time that may be keeping us from participating in these beautiful masses and days of reflections? Christmas is not over! Christmas should live on in our spirits! Christmas was the reminder that God gave us His Son so that we might be saved! What becomes of our spirit in the wake of Christmas and everyday of our lives tells God a lot about us. He knows when you’ve been sleeping. He knows when you’re awake. He knows when you’ve been bad or good. When your tree no longer has the fresh fragrance of pine and when the decorations are put away until next year, don’t pack the joy, peace and love of your spirit in a box, share that gifts of these graces everyday! In the wake of Christmas there is more to give and celebrate!

A Christmas Prayer

A Christmas Prayer Dear God, We are thankful that on this Day/Eve of Christmas we, along with millions of people around the world, are celebrating together the miraculous birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We are grateful for our family and friends who have safely traveled near and far to be together on Christmas. Our decorations and beautiful lights serve as gentle reminders of the star filled night of Your son’s birth. The Christmas tree which represents eternal life is in the midst of our homes putting Christ at the center of our lives --and we pray --together --for His presence every day of the year. Tonight/today we gather around the tree to share the gift of giving and honor Jesus on this glorious holy night/day. We thank you Lord for blessing us with food to eat, and acknowledge our gift of abundance while so many others have less or none. We pray that the less fortunate are not forgotten and have received blessings from others who are near them. We pray that we become compassionate people that will serve one another and please you. We offer this tradition tonight/today that we share with each other to keep alive the “true meaning of Christmas” for generations to come. For it is through Christ’s birth and resurrection that we have hope of reuniting with all those who have gone before us -- and who will go after us to their rest, especially . . . [name all the departed], and all others who have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. Dear Jesus, We pray that through God’s grace they are in Your midst celebrating the mystery of your birth, for everyday in Heaven is Christmas and that every person who passes from this earth will be in your presence. On this Holy night/day we pray together for the world to be at peace and united in love and that the spirit of Christmas will live on in our daily lives. Jesus, we ask this in your name, Amen!

Our Daily Graces

Our Daily Graces “How can this be?” How many times in our lives have we asked the question, “How can this be?” How can this be that I have been cured? How can this be that I have a surplus of money? How can this be that our offer was the one that was accepted? How can this be that I passed my test when I felt unprepared? How can this be that she forgave me my worst grievance? We should not look to ourselves for the answer, but rather look to God. His answer will always be the same. You have found favor with God. Everyday there are many graces to be noticed and thankful for. If our heart and spirit are quieted, prepared and well versed in God's word,our eyes will have no problem noticing the wonderful daily graces granted us all. Luke 1:26-32,34-38 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you.’ But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?’ The angel said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.’ Then Mary said, ‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.’ Then the angel departed from her.

The Gifts of Prosperity, Nourishment and Endurance

The Gifts of Prosperity, Nourishment and Endurance How often have we found ourselves short of money, food and even patience? If we put our trust in God we will see that our last single dollar in our purse or wallet can last a week. If we have faith in the Lord the meal we have can feed 3 more. If we rely on and imitate Jesus the patience we lacked can be replaced with love and tolerance. God always has compassion, abundance and love for us. In return we must have compassion for others, share our abundance and above all love one another. When we act in this way, we will always recognize the gifts of God’s prosperity in our lives, the abundant nourishment He provides, and our hearts will be filled with peace, joy and endurance. Matthew 15:30-32,34-37 Great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the mute, and many others. They put them at his feet, and he cured them, so that the crowd was amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel. Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I have compassion for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat; and I do not want to send them away hungry, for they might faint on the way.’ Jesus asked them, ‘How many loaves have you?’ They said, ‘Seven, and a few small fish.’ Then ordering the crowd to sit down on the ground, he took the seven loaves and the fish; and after giving thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all of them ate and were filled; and they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full.

Receiving Grace With Awe And Glory

Receiving Grace With Awe And Glory When we ask God for something do we come to Him humble of heart knowing we are asking for more than we are worthy of receiving? Let’s face it, we are sinners. Even on our best day there are things we’ve done that have yet to translate in our hearts and spirit into the sin that it is. When asking something of God, we can, at the very least, ponder over everything that is honest and immoral. With humility and on bended knee we can safely admit our transgressions, trespasses, unworthiness and ignorance before the Lord. God is always waiting for us to come to Him at our best, in our idleness and when in need. We will receive His graces and blessings even with our blemishes. However, it is not “what” we receive, but “how” we receive it. We may not be worthy to receive God’s graces on our lives; but we can make ourselves ready to receive them with awe and glory. Matthew 8:5-11 When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, appealing to him and saying, "Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, in terrible distress." And he said to him, "I will come and cure him." The centurion answered, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only speak the word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes, and to another, 'Come,' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this,' and the slave does it." When Jesus heard him, he was amazed and said to those who followed him, "Truly I tell you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from east and west and will eat with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven."

Accepting The Grace of Jesus' Presence

Accepting The Grace of Jesus' Presence How different would our lives be if Jesus said, Hurry, I must stay at your house today.” Would we be in awe or fearful, tranquil or upset, joyful or nervous, ecstatic or distressed, happily surprised or intruded upon, caring or indifferent? Are there areas in our lives we would change if Jesus were to come to our house? Jesus is there with us, in our houses, cars, and at our workplaces. Every day Jesus wants us to notice Him. How long will we wait until we acknowledge His presence? Human life is multifaceted yet our faith can make it plain and simple. Fear not what your family or your neighbors will say when your new attitudes model that of Christ. Let us accept the grace we have today to know Jesus that has been with us all along. 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 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."

Listen First, Then Respond With Faith

Listen First, Then Respond with Faith When we are crying out for Jesus to help us, how well do we listen? Can we hear Him when he asks “What do you want me to do for you?” Our response to Jesus when He asks us a question is crucial. We may think we sound foolish when our petitions are repetitive. Or perhaps our requests are the most selfless thoughts that has ever left our lips. Whatever our response will be, the real question is, are we really listening and responding to what He is asking? When you need answers pray sincerely, whole-heartedly, and humbly when you put yourself before the Lord. Really listen to Jesus’ question before you take action. Then with faith respond to what Jesus puts on your heart. You may not agree with nor like His answer, but your spirit will know what He says is just, fair, honorable and virtuous. Then with a committed heart go and do what your heart leads you to do. Luke 18:35-43 As Jesus 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

Mercy At Your Doorstep

Mercy At Your Doorstep Many of us have had experiences where at one moment everything was fine and the next we were stricken with bad news, a terrible accident or tragedy at our door. It is not what will happen that is important. What is important is how we respond to all matters in our lives when the .calamity hits. Jesus will come when we least expect it. His coming should not be a tragedy unless we have not lived as He taught us. Let us take time to read God’s word, put into practice those words of wisdom, apply those morals and value to our lives, and express only love and compassion to all we meet. When we try live as we ought, our daily prayers will always include prayers of forgiveness. Be prepared, for we do not know the day or the hour of Jesus’ coming. But with faith believe you will see the mercy of God fall upon your doorstep. Luke 17:26-37 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 sulphur 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.' Then they asked him, 'Where, Lord?' He said to them, 'Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.'

The Benefit Of The Best Seat

The Benefit Of The Best Seat A firework show in a city can be seen from the city’s limits. However, being right beneath the center of the colorful explosives rising in the sky might seem to be the best seat. When Jesus comes you will not need to travel a single block. His coming will be visible anywhere we are in the world. His light will flash and light up the sky from one side to the other. Do not go off in pursuit of finding Jesus if someone says He is at their house or in their city. You will know when Jesus is here! If we are living right now in such a way to confidently receive Jesus Christ when He comes, then we know we have the benefit of the best seat and will see Him no matter where we are! Luke 17:20-25 Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, "The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; nor will they say, 'Look, here it is!' or 'There it is!' For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you." Then he said to the disciples, "The days are coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. They will say to you, 'Look there!' or 'Look here!' Do not go, do not set off in pursuit. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. But first he must endure much suffering and be rejected by this generation

Thank God For Another Beautiful Day

Thank God For Another Beautiful Day Do we take for granted the graces we receive each day? Are we so busy that we cannot see through the webs of relationships and races to finish our tasks? Are we taking time out from the chaos of our lives to give thanks to God? If we are truly conscious of what God does for us we can stop all day long and give thanks. When you rise in the morning gives thanks for a new day. When you leave your house thank God for the roof over your head. When you sit in the car pray to God for another safe journey. When you encounter the well and ill thank God that you are able to be with them to enjoy their company or assist with their needs. When you work give thanks to God that you have an opportunity to share your gifts of patience, kindness and talents. When you cook do it with love and thank God you have food to nourish you and your family. Before you lay your head down to sleep, fall to your knees and bow your head, pray for the world, and thank God for another beautiful day.

Do It With Love

Do It With Love Sometimes we do things are that expected of us and expect an extra reward or recompense. If you are hired for a job, use your best talents. If you are a son or a daughter serve your parents as a child ought to do. If you are better off than your neighbor, share your wealth. In all you do, do it with love.

Blessings From The Heart

Blessings From The Heart There is a beauty in giving a kiss, a hug, sharing a meal, an uplifting story, paying a visit, putting on a party without the expectation of anything in return. There is even more reward to doing this for others would never expect it from you. We all can reach out a little more from our comfort zone, our closest circle of family, friends and neighbors to share the gift our ourselves. You will be blessed because a gift from the heart cannot be repaid; only accepted in love. Luke 14:12-14 Jesus said also to the one who had invited him, "When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbours, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."

God Sees And Rejoices In You

God Sees And Rejoices In You We often judge a book by its cover. By the same token we may be quick to judge one another based on our appearance. Others are sitting on the other side of table waiting to judge us every day. With authenticity reveal the goodness that you have within. Pay no mind to those who try to demean, destroy or tear down your spirit. God knows you inside and out. What God sees and rejoices in over you, pray the fallen world would recognize it and be inspired. Luke 11:37-41 While Jesus was speaking, a Pharisee invited him to dine with him; so he went in and took his place at the table. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not first wash before dinner. Then the Lord said to him, "Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. You fools! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also? So give for alms those things that are within; and see, everything will be clean for you."

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall

Mirror, Mirror On the Wall Looking in the mirror will reveal our looks, weariness, history, feelings and hopes. When another looks at us what do they see? When God looks into our spirit what is revealed to Him? If in the past we have loaded people with burdens hard to bear, we can now lift a finger to ease them. If we have hung on tight to our abundance, we can now give freely to another in need. If we have held grievances in our hearts, we can now forgive them. We are all created by God and are made in His image. Let us turn away from our old selves, and now act like children of The Most High. We are a reflection of whom we spend time with. Let us give no one reason to doubt that The Holy Spirit lives inside us. May all our lives emulate a life filled with holy desires and generous deeds. Mirror, mirror on the wall, may today you reflect a spirit that has grown leaps and bounds over yesterday. Luke 11:42-46 'But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and herbs of all kinds, and neglect justice and the love of God; it is these you ought to have practised, without neglecting the others. Woe to you Pharisees! For you love to have the seat of honour in the synagogues and to be greeted with respect in the market-places. Woe to you! For you are like unmarked graves, and people walk over them without realizing it.' One of the lawyers answered him, 'Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us too.' And he said, 'Woe also to you lawyers! For you load people with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not lift a finger to ease them.

Setting The Record Straight

Setting The Record Straight We could all stand to take time to reexamine what and who’s behavior we condone. Our acceptance, silence and actions are forms of condoning another’s actions. Granted many situations may be beyond our control. But should that give rise for us to participate or reap benefits when a situation has disrespect, dishonor and judgment written all over it? What we do and do not say, and what we support are reflections of our morals, values and character. Let us all leave good unswerving tracks so that others may follow on an honorable path. Let us use good words and works to support just causes that equally denounce our support of less than worthy things or unjust acts by people. Let us be always truthful, showing compassion with a devout heart and sacred spirit. Although one may be waiting to catch us in something we might say, let us not give them a foot to stand on. Whether you are a witness to the present, or have knowledge of the past, know that with your first hand experience, The Holy Spirit inside you and knowledge of God’s word and power you can set the record straight. Luke 11:47-54 Jesus said: "Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets whom your ancestors killed. So you are witnesses and approve of the deeds of your ancestors; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, 'I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute,' so that this generation may be charged with the blood of all the prophets shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who perished between the altar and the sanctuary. Yes, I tell you, it will be charged against this generation. Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering." When he went outside, the scribes and the Pharisees began to be very hostile toward him and to cross-examine him about many things, lying in wait for him, to catch him in something he might say.

They Can’t Take That Away From You

They Can’t Take That Away From You In a world of busyness we may be distracted by tasks that keep us from reaping the rewards of daily heavenly graces. Take time to watch what others are doing. When you see someone who is not hurried or pressured ask yourself, "why?" When another is taking time to talk to people take a break from your busyness and start a conversation of your own. When you hear of someone spending time with the needy, lonely, orphans or widows know that there is always a person who needs you too. The Lord knows the burdens of the many tasks we place on ourselves daily. He also knows how rewarding your life will be if you come to Him without distraction. The world may place its chokehold on our lives, but it cannot touch our spirit that belongs to God. Chose the better part, that which cannot be taken away from you. Luke 10:38-42 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."

Reveal Your Best Assets

Reveal Your Best Assets When meeting a person or group for the first time it may be an eye opening test if others didn’t know what credentials we have earned or the status we hold. Our credentials, status in the workplace, position in the family unit, or experience may negatively hinder how others will respond to us, what they will do or how they will think. It is always our hope that when we give our best selves at our first meeting we will continue with that same level of good qualities, manners and character. In return, we hope that others will respond to us just the same. We all have a reputation that precedes us. The question is, can you and your presence in a room reveal your best self on your own without an introduction. Jesus didn’t want His disciples to share with others about who He was. Jesus was waiting for others to meet Him and do what they will do. Choose to reveal daily your best assets and share your wonderful gifts from God. The response by others may be rejection, acceptance or praise. Your actions, words and body language will reveal the relationship you have with Jesus. Let the world know where you stand. A first impression, rather than an introduction, may be the only opportunity you have to make a lasting connection. Luke 9:18-22 Once when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say that I am?’ They answered, ‘John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen.’ He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered, ‘The Messiah of God.’ He sternly ordered and commanded them not to tell anyone, saying, ‘The Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.’

There Is Peace & Joy In Acceptance

There Is Peace & Joy In Acceptance Sometimes, in our human psychological sphere of influence we believe we have already taken care of a matter and are puzzled when it resurfaces perhaps in another way. We might wonder why that particular something just keeps coming back. If we really want to get to the root of anything, we must take the time to try to understand its basic foundation, explore its source of energy, weigh the feelings of others, look at the past, the state of the present and where the future may be headed. The same viewpoint cannot work for us in our spiritual psychological sphere of influence. If we are to spiritually understand why our prayers seem to not be answered, our efforts seem to not lead us out of a dead end, or our plans seem to never pan out we need to take time to explore the depth of our faith and to be mindfully aware of a daily renew our relationship with God. God’s plans may be difficult to understand, have their own source of energy, have their own direction for the present and the mysterious future, but . . . those plans directed by God are for our greatest good! It is in our human nature to want to know all the answers. However, it is in our natural spiritual nature that we find the peace to accept what we cannot change. There is peace in acceptance of God’s will and joy to be felt when we see His plans come to fruition. When you’ve done all you can, sit back confidently and wait for the mark of God’s hand to be revealed in all aspects of your life. The peace and joy of acceptance is heavenly and indescribable. Luke 9:7-9 Now Herod the ruler heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. Herod said, "John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?" And he tried to see him.

The Richness of Faith

The Richness of Faith Can you imagine being asked to leave home with only the clothes on your back with nothing extra; not even food or money. Imagine also being asked to bring the good news of Jesus to a people who know nothing about Him. are in a similar way asked to do the same thing. However today we do have many advantages. We are not asked to leave our homes permanently. We are not asked to limit our belongings only to what we are wearing. We are not asked to not prepare for our survival for more than a day. We are not necessarily being asked to address a people who have no inclination about who Jesus is. We are, however, being asked to dig deeper into our own faith and to share with others the richness of that faith. Unlike the disciples we have the word of God contained in our bibles at our fingertips. We don’t have to memorize all that Jesus said or did but we should know how to put our fingers on the pages that give us that wealth of holy and inspiring information. Although we don’t have the power to cure all who we encounter, we do have the privilege of knowing God who can do all things. So, together, we must ask and pray God for our strength, rely on Him for the resolutions to our lives trials and tribulations, and have faith that His will is the one we should accept, praise and spread the good news about to all those who we touch. The richness of your faith and the evidence of graces in your life will speak volumes to the world about what God does for us who believe in His Son, Jesus Christ. Luke 9:1-6 Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. He said to them, 'Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money - not even an extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.' They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

All Access Pass

All Access Pass Sometimes we think we have special privileges just because we know someone. Those who do the work are few. Those who desire what others have and who are not willing to work for it are many. There is much reward when you’ve participated in an event that brought good to others. Much more reward when you can walk up to the front door of a gathering and don’t have to drop a name to get in. People know who they have seen working in their midst. They don’t need anyone to tell them who is there just for the profits, giveaways or benefits. Being part of God’s work always gives you an all access pass. You can come in with your humble spirit, your heart at peace, and your soul always ready to give more. With your faith placed in God, your welcome never expires and your work is never done. Luke 8:19-21 Then Jesus' mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. And he was told, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you." But he said to them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it."

The Gift of Divine Resources

The Gift of Divine Resources We might never have an opportunity to walk with Jesus and provide for Him out of our resources. However, we do have opportunities everyday to walk with each other and help one another. If we wanted to, we could often pause during our conversations, ponder at life’s turn of events, reflect at simple and complicated affairs and ask what would I do if this were Jesus? What we dish out to each other we not only set the tone for our days but also teach the generations to come. Bring good news of love, compassion, healing and forgiveness to all those you touch. See Jesus in the eyes of everyone you pass. Then only goodness and love will be seen in your eyes, noticed in your actions, and heard in your words. Use the gifts of the divine resources you were born with. Then only the holiest part of you will be revealed. Luke 8:1-3 Soon afterwards Jesus went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their resources

Deeds Are Telling

Deeds Are Telling What we do our children will imitate. We should not be quick to reprimand, but rather use that special moment of realization to look truthfully in the mirror. Rather than finding fault, look for the good in others. Instead of tearing down a spirit, be the one to lift it. Rather than being the one to point a negative finger, use your hands to do positive work. The depth of your wisdom, faith and character is vindicated by all your deeds. What you do sets the tone, path and legacy for your family and generations to come. If Jesus were standing before you, what or whom might he compare you to. Your deeds are telling of who you are. Luke 7:31-35 Jesus said, 'To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market-place and calling to one another, "We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep." For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, "He has a demon"; the Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, "Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax-collectors and sinners!" Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children.'

God's Greatest Work

God’s Greatest Work What do we say when God changes in our favor what we already accepted as truth? Do we take for granted when God’s mercy softens a hardened heart? Are we desensitized to the glory and awe of God to notice when our days are flawless? The word about Jesus spread throughout countries when the people were witness to the favors of God. How free are we to share about God’s greatness and mercy on our lives to the people in our own circles? Does fear and awe of the God almighty run through your blood? Do the miracles in your life and that in other’s lives ever move you to fall to your knees in wonder and amazement? Do not weep. Jesus in many ways says to a tepid or indifferent heart, rise and believe in God’s glorious desires on your life! We may not always have the outcome we desire. We may never understand why the day’s events are not in line with our own mindset. However, believing and acknowledging that Jesus is among us can bring the deadness in our lives back to life. When the Lord sees you He sees His greatest work. When Jesus is touching your life stop in your tracks and glorify Him. If you were conscious of every grace bestowed on you, you’d be stopping all the day long. Luke 7:11-17 Soon afterwards Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother's only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town. When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, "Do not weep." Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, rise!" The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, "A great prophet has risen among us!" and "God has looked favourably on his people!" This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.

There's A Knocking At The Door

There's A Knocking At The Door How often do we feel unworthy when something wonderful or miraculous has happened in our lives? We think, “What did I do to deserve this?” Do we carelessly take for granted the wonderful graces received in our lives every day without so much as a prayer filled with gratitude much less bending to our knees in awe and thanksgiving? Getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of our lives leaves little room for necessary quiet time, meditation, reflection and prayer. If we slow down our breathing and the speed at which we travel throughout our day we may recognize that we are not ultimately in control of our lives but only passengers on a wonderful journey toward eternity with God that waits patiently for us to acknowledge Him. God sent Jesus to knock on our door. How long will it take for us to know He is there waiting for us to acknowledge His presence? Open the door to your giving heart. Release what suppresses the Holy Spirit inside. Set free what precludes you from really loving. You may think, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my life.” The Lord shows by all the great deeds, the little and great resolutions, the sparing incidents and the light after the turmoil in your life, that His love is abundant and unconditional and there for those of such great faith. Luke 7:1-3,6-7,9-10 After Jesus had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly, and who was ill and close to death. When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave. And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, ‘Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed. When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, ‘I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.’ When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

The Prospect of Spiritual Maturity

The Prospect of Spiritual Maturity “You are always finding fault with me. Do you think you are perfect?” It is easy to point out the faults of others. It is so clear from atop our own mountain, our own self-righteous vantage point. Practice standing and viewing yourself outside of your physical being, your own thoughts and actions. There is always much to be learned. Before we point out an error in another’s ways bring forth to the top of conversation your own. It just might keep you from being a foolish hypocrite. However, if a group of people can be forgiving, faithful, hopeful and loving enough to help each other, then we just may be spiritually mature at working together to improve ourselves without hurting each other. God waits patiently and lovingly for our souls to long for spiritual maturity. Luke 6:39-42 Jesus also told them a parable: "Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher. Why do you see the speck in your neighbour's eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbour, 'Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbour's eye."

Rejoice In Imperfection

Rejoice In Imperfection “You’ve lost everything and still you speak with joy in your heart. Who are you trying to fool?” Beyond our tears there is joy. Beyond our famine there is contentment. Beyond our troubles are delightful days. Don’t dwell in disappointment when the world fails you. Rather rejoice when life is not perfect. For it is then that you will see, experience and testify to the greatness of God. Share what you have. Give of your time. Love with all your heart. Your darkest days will always have evidence of the hand of God. May your eyes, ears, hands and heart always be prepared to walk faithfully and hopefully through the shadows we cast upon the earth. Luke 6:20-26 Jesus looked up at his disciples and said:‘Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.‘Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.‘Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.‘Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.‘But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.‘Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry.‘Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep.‘Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.

There Are No Flaws In Perfection

There Are No Flaws In Perfection We might argue that some people are doing things the old fashion way. Getting hip with the times is a tricky thing. There are many ways that our culture is advancing. We have more electronic technology and have better ways to build sounder structures. But how are we strengthening our faith and trust in God? How are we building on what is already right in our spirit? With Jesus as our model, we will recognize what is good, strive to do what is right, and be inspired to be better human beings. What Jesus brought to the world is good. What Jesus brought to us was God in human form. God is good. God is love. There are no flaws in perfection. Luke 5:33-39 Then the Pharisees and the scribes said to Jesus, "John's disciples, like the disciples of the Pharisees, frequently fast and pray, but your disciples eat and drink. Jesus said to them, "You cannot make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them, can you? The days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days." He also told them a parable: "No one tears a piece from a new garment and sews it on an old garment; otherwise the new will be torn, and the piece from the new will not match the old. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the new wine will burst the skins and will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. And no one after drinking old wine desires new wine, but says, 'The old is good.'"

Believe And You Will Be Blessed

Believe and You Will Be Blessed “I know it is the right thing to do, but you are asking me to do what I am not comfortable doing.” When we find ourselves at a dead end we often will stop dead in our tracks. God will always put something wonderful on our hearts. If we interpret His wonderful graces as hardships, so they will be. If we accept God’s wonderful graces, so they will be. Acceptance of what God intends for us is key to our peace and to our relationship with Him. Do not be afraid, from now on you will be blessed. When we believe in God, when we acknowledge His greatness, when we allow our hearts to say yes, we receive God’s blessings. Luke 5:1-11 Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, 'Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.' Simon answered, 'Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.' When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signalled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, 'Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!' For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, 'Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.' When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.

Following In His Footsteps

Following In His Footsteps “Don’t go, we are enjoying your company so much.” When someone is engaging we want to hold on to them. When there is someone who has profound wisdom our hearts naturally want to seek more of them. When another is extremely well-rounded and shares their knowledge with humbleness and generosity we dare not step away. Stay close to God. Stay even closer to Jesus. Spending time getting to know Jesus is to know God. You don’t have to look any further than within your own self to know how great God is. God gave us each a heart, a soul, and a spirit. It is up to each of us to remove ourselves from the busyness of our lives and seek the quiet that possess our peace. In those wonderful moments of peace and silence we will find holy engagement, profound wisdom, humbleness and generosity beyond what any human is capable of. If we listen, Jesus will proclaim the good news to us. If we are compliant, we will act as He does and proclaim the good news to others. Jesus was sent for this purpose. We were created to follow in His footsteps. Luke 4:38-43 After leaving the synagogue he entered Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked him about her. Then he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. Immediately she got up and began to serve them. As the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various kinds of diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on each of them and cured them. Demons also came out of many, shouting, ‘You are the Son of God!’ But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Messiah.

Good Work Never Ends

Good Work Never Ends Do we cram for a test, leave the packing for the last minute, or go to bed late without regard for being rested and refreshed for the day’s tasks ahead? Are we selfishly thinking only of ourselves or are we blatantly oblivious to those around us in need of attention, care or company? Jesus warns us to be ready for his return. We do know the hour or the day, therefore we must be ready. If Jesus came last month how would He have found you? If Jesus returned last night would you have been humanly and spiritually prepared? If Jesus chose this very moment would you be eager for Him to see you? Who then is His faithful? Blessed is you whom Jesus will find at work when He arrives." Good work never ends. Matthew 24:42-46 Jesus said to his disciples, "Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. Who then is the faithful and wise slave, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give the other slaves their allowance of food at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives."

The Fullness Of Life

The Fullness Of Life Is that smile we put on our faces genuine? Is our offer to help sincere? To know yourself better live out your measure of the gift of your smile and put your offer of talents and endowments to work. When among others talk about more than just superficial things. When situations call for action rather than words, step up. Look into the eyes of every individual you pass and encounter and see the eyes of Christ. You will never just smile or make an offer that falls short of genuineness, forgiveness, sincerity, compassion and love. Fill up, then, on what God has designed you to do and enjoy the fullness of your life, heart and spirit. Matthew 23:27-32 'Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead and of all kinds of filth. So you also on the outside look righteous to others, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. 'Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous, and you say, "If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets." Thus you testify against yourselves that you are descendants of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your ancestors.

What Would Jesus Do?

What Would Jesus Do? What do we neglect? What can we practice without neglecting other important matters? When we place much attention on less weightier matters our faith may wane, our mercy may lessen, and the justice in our hearts may turn limp. It is always good to say upright things and to show our best. However, it is equally as important that these things depict what is truly in our hearts. We shouldn’t stop at what is expected from our family and friends. Always ask, “What would Jesus do?” Our hearts will lead us to do the rest. The Word of God Matthew 23:23-26 Jesus said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. It is these you ought to have practiced without neglecting the others. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel! Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence."

A Knowing Heart

A Knowing Heart We often see a grand self-seeking picture and forget what’s at the heart of our lives. Know when your heart is placing too much attention on what is temporary and is playing to your ego. Your heart, if it is in the right place, rejoices when it gives in the name of Jesus and always wants to give more. The Word of God Matthew 23:13-19 ‘But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you lock people out of the kingdom of heaven. For you do not go in yourselves, and when others are going in, you stop them. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cross sea and land to make a single convert, and you make the new convert twice as much a child of hell as yourselves. ‘Woe to you, blind guides, who say, “Whoever swears by the sanctuary is bound by nothing, but whoever swears by the gold of the sanctuary is bound by the oath.” You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the sanctuary that has made the gold sacred? And you say, “Whoever swears by the altar is bound by nothing, but whoever swears by the gift that is on the altar is bound by the oath.” How blind you are! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift sacred?

Today Means The World To Your Eternity

Today Means The World To Your Eternity “I stood in line like they asked me and they let the others in who were dressed in their monkey suits!” We all know Jesus is coming again. This is not an event that anyone should take lightly. His coming may not seem to affect your today but it does. What you do today shows God what you think of your life. How you think today reveals how you appreciate your life, your gifts and God’s graces. Where and when you choose to pray reveals how much you trust in God’s presence, mercy and forgiveness. Today means the world to your eternity. Matthew 22:1-2, 8-14 Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying: "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. Then he said to his slaves, 'The wedding is ready. Go therefore into the main streets, and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet.' Those slaves went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both good and bad; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing a wedding robe, and he said to him, 'Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, 'Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen."

God Knows Best

God Knows Best We often try to undo what God has done. We try to change our circumstances when all the signs show there is no way. We repeatedly ask God for the same things even when we know it’s not the best. Even in marriage we give in to divorce instead of working on our relationships forever. What God has joined together, what God has planned, what God does not spare, let no one separate, let no one think himself more powerful or privilege, let no one believe he knows best. You have the God, most high, most powerful, most compassionate and most loving on your side. Trust God. He knows best. Matthew 19:3-6 Some Pharisees came to Jesus, and to test him they asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause?" He answered, "Have you not read that the one who made them at the beginning 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."

My Soul Revealed

My Soul Revealed What does your soul magnify? Are you curt, forceful or unforgiving? Are you kind, generous, faithful? Mary said to her cousin Elizabeth, “My soul magnifies the Lord.” Such a young girl filled with so much wisdom. Where will we get our wisdom? We all have access to the bible. We must read, learn and put into practice the ways of the Lord. We must, like Jesus, go to a quiet place, meditate, and pray. It is there in the silence that we will come to know God. When we feel confident there in quiet, we can take that confidence into the world and really live! Reveal to the world what a soul created by God should personify-holiness, compassion and love! Luke 1:39-42,46,53-56 In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’

The Value Of Time

The Value of Time “I can’t believe you won’t let me play, just because I was late!” “It would not be fair if I let you start now. The others have been here for two hours.” Take seriously the importance of being on time and prepared physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Much on earth will be missed by one who is lazy, thoughtless or sleeps to excess. Much reward comes to one who knows the magnitude of spiritual morals, values, commandments, compassion and consideration for others. We have 1440 minutes in a day to change our mind, circumstance or path. How prudently we use our time is not put on the shoulders of another, but rather something we accept, bear and live out on our own. Matthew 25:1-13 Jesus said to his disciples, "Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, 'Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise replied, 'No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.' And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, 'Lord, lord, open to us.' But he replied, 'Truly I tell you, I do not know you.' Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour."

Reaching Out

Reaching Out “I don’t want to be here anymore! I do well all the time, but all you do is pay attention to the one who is trouble!” Jesus teaches us that He was sent only to the lost sheep. “The well,” seem to require less of His mercy, healing and help but not less of His love. When you live with the heart of God, the eyes of Jesus, and the strength of The Holy Spirit there is no room for jealousy or competition. Be confident in who you are and what you do. Spend time praising the good in everyone and encourage them to be of service to others. Where you see need harden not your heart, but rather be understanding, thoughtful, supportive, and compassionate. Everyone is worthy of God’s love and blessings, even those who seem the most unworthy. God invites everyone to the banquet. Sit in the chair, and view yourself as His gracious co-host. When you realize your special position in life you too will reach out to the lost. Matthew 15:21-28 Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon." But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, "Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us." He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." He answered, "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Then Jesus answered her, "Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed instantly.

Staying Awake

Staying Awake “I don’t care that its good for me. I don’t like how that feels!” Sometimes when we go into a quiet room seeking direction from Jesus and searching for God’s presence we may be afraid of what we will see and hear. God told Peter, John and James, “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” Listen to what God puts on your heart and see what He puts in your path. There is no need to be afraid. Like the disciples, we are encouraged to stay awake so that we may see his glory too. Luke 9:28-30,32-36 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah’—not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!’ When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.

The Vocation of Giving and Receiving

The Vocation of Giving and Receiving “Someone else can feed her. I’ve got enough of my own that I am responsible for.” “My time is valuable. I don’t have to spend it helping those who should be helping themselves!” It is brash human nature to think that others, especially adults, should take care of themselves. It is selfish human nature to avoid helping someone in need because of a big ego, greed or laziness. It is not a blow to self-dignity to give or allow another to aid you. In fact, giving and accepting the blessing of another is receiving the gift that God worked diligently to prepare for you and someone else. When the disciples thought they could not help thousands of people with a meal, Jesus challenged them to use the resources that they had at hand and leave the rest to Him. Take time to look around you and see who needs help, attention and love. Pride-filled people will hesitate to ask for anything and may miss many wonderful miracles. What may start out as a challenge will become easier with persistence and regularity. Make it your life’s vocation to give humbly when and what you can and receive with thanksgiving a gift from the heart. Matthew 14:14-21 When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ They replied, ‘We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish.’ And he said, ‘Bring them here to me.’ Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

Look Into His Eyes

Look Into His Eyes “She will never be successful. Look where she came from!” “We couldn’t be speaking about the same person. The man I know would never be so generous!” Sadly, it seems that we may often find people more receptive to who we really are outside of our homes. Strangers, co-workers have not had decades watching us grow. They have not been prejudiced by their own expectations because they have not been raised with us. We have more freedom when we are the new one in the group, free to bring our best to the table. We think we may know the characteristics and intimate details of those closest to us. It would serve us well to speak to others outside of our homes with those who have contact with our loved one or friend. We would be amazed at what wonderful things we find out about these people we believe we know so well. Jesus could not perform many deeds of power in his hometown because the people were in disbelief. Let us not be foolish and miss the great powers of God at work in our own homes. We all have many gifts and God uses our circumstances, personalities, hands and voices to do great deeds of power. If we can look into the eyes of our brother, sister, mother, father, spouse, child and friend and see the eyes of Jesus, there will be more honor and wonder among us. Matthew 13:54-58 Jesus came to his hometown and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, "Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?" And they took offence at him. But Jesus said to them, "Prophets are not without honour except in their own country and in their own house." And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief.

A Guiltless Heart

A Guiltless Heart “I’ve done a lot for you. But after what you done I will never forgive you!” A funny thing about forgiveness, we want our relationships to be good, but we are not good to our relationships. Jesus said, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice.” If midsentence we are inclined to use the word “but” we may be focused on our sacrifice rather than forgiveness in our heart. Life is short. We would be wise to live our best today rather than to have the mentality that perhaps tomorrow or in time forgiveness will come. Focus on what’s good, give people what they need to grow, offer words that heal. What you receive in return is a guiltless heart. What a heavenly way to live! Matthew 12:1-8 At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. When the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, "Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath." He said to them, "Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him or his companions to eat, but only for the priests. Or have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple break the Sabbath and yet are guiltless? I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. But if you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath."

Put Your Feet Up And Relax

Put Your Feet Up And Relax “I can’t do this! I’m not equipped for it!” “God gave you a gift, but he didn’t give me any!” “I have been weighed down for so many years. I just don’t believe I will ever feel different.” We forget that we have an awesome God! God gave us His Son to lean on. Jesus asks us to give Him whatever weighs us down. We all must do what we can do daily to address people, participate in rectifying situations, and learn from our toughest experiences. Then we can confidently give all that is left to Jesus. We might be doing these things already. If we are and still feel ling weighed down, then . . . take a leap of faith, and give your burdens away. With Jesus in your corner, there is rest. Put your feet up and relax. Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

The Gentle Touch

The Gentle Touch “Don’t bother me with your troubles. I don’t have time for that!” “Good fortune will never happen to me. I have the worst luck!” “I can’t do it. God didn’t give me that kind of brain.” If we are too pompous we will not hear a word anyone says to us. If we are too proud we cannot be touched. If we believe we are too weak we cannot be strengthened. If we believe we are too ignorant we cannot be taught. Believe that you can hear God’s voice. Have trust that God has your back. Accept as truth that you are a child of God and that all things are possible for you. God has a gentle touch. He touches those who are humble, charitable, non-judgmental, gentle and servants. If you are not already these things, spend time learning about your faith, make time daily for prayer, and then with the new knowledge you possess, go out and live! Matthew 11:25-27 At that time Jesus said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

A Desire For Mercy

A Desire For Mercy “Why do you want to help everybody? You should be taking care of yourself.” “I know she’s depressed because she’s taken a few steps back. But I can’t give up on helping her to keep moving forward.” “Can you see that she needs me? You, however, are doing just fine!” We hear our family members take offense when we reach out to help outside of our own circle. We may gripe and complain that we are ignored, but could it be our eyes are set on selfish desires that make us blind? What makes us take offense to being charitable to those in need? Jesus said to His apostles, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means. I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” Let us go and learn what it means to have a merciful heart. Invite others close to you to join you in a life that resembles that of Christ. Sit a table of the less desirable. Stop to talk to one who is sitting alone in a corner at a party. Get up off the couch and walk into a hospital or an assisted living facility to visit the sick and lonely. Pay more attention to those who are hurting in your home. And praise and teach those in your life who are doing well. Encourage them to share their success, knowledge and good heart. It is human nature to desire to have our egos stroked. But at the end of the day, our sense of self can only be measured by the scope of our spiritual desire to help, inspiring thoughts and compassionate deeds. God gave us the capability to be merciful beyond our comprehension. Human nature naturally works to bring happiness to self. The human spirit naturally works to bring joy to others. Jesus is calling you to follow Him. In the quiet of your life you will hear Him. Go with a merciful heart and learn what this means. Matthew 9:9-13 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" But when he heard this, he said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners."

The Interior Of Your Heart

The Interior of Your Heart “He just wants her money, that’s why he’s helping her.” “She doesn’t care about her. She just wants people to think good of her!” When someone performs a charitable act, reaches out to visit the lonely or offers compassion to the ailing or hurting keep your hands clear of interference and your thoughts clean. If we consistently try to break down someone’s good intentions we may one day be successful in killing their spirit. If we bring negative attention toward another’s good nature we might find that we’ll lose a good friend. If we plant the seed of greed in one who is easily swayed we may be giving up a good soldier for the church to the devil’s mob. Jesus asks, “Why do you think evil in your hearts?” Give of your time because you can. Share your wealth because you are blessed. Love even the greatest sinner because you are loved with all your imperfections. Search your heart and ask yourself, “Are you are a disciple of Jesus or a warrior of the enemy? For which is more costly to say, “Why would you want to help her” or “Let’s do something together to lend a hand.” Jesus came to show us He will forgive anyone who repents and believes. With faith in your spirit, and the strength of the gift of your hands, mind and body praise the good works of others. Be the first to support, bear witness, and imitate a servant of God. The interior of your heart will eventually surface to the top. God is counting on you to be His crème de la crème. Matthew 9:1-8 And after getting into a boat he crossed the sea and came to his own town. And just then some people were carrying a paralyzed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven." Then some of the scribes said to themselves, "This man is blaspheming." But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, "Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Stand up and walk'? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" - he then said to the paralytic - "Stand up, take your bed and go to your home." And he stood up and went to his home. When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings.

The Unseen Truth

The Unseen Truth “I didn’t think that I would get the job. I doubted it until I got the phone call.” “I never believed that we could get back together again, but look at us now!” Do you now believe because you have seen the results, the finished product or the healthy baby? Do you not doubt because now your marriage has reconciled or friendship repaired? Our negativity breeds pessimism. Our lack of enthusiasm proves unhelpful. Our reluctance eventually makes us unwilling. If we do not believe in our abilities, in our choices, and in our God then will never know our victories. Jesus once asked of Thomas, His disciple, “Do not doubt but believe!” Believing for us is half of our triumph the other part is keeping our faith. If we keep our faith through our trials and tribulations we will feel the confidence that comes with trust in the Lord. We may not receive what we ask for and not realize a particular aspiration. However, we must not doubt but believe that our faith in God will always reveal our extraordinary gifts, fitting promotions, and unique advantages shown through only His graces. Don’t believe because you have seen. With faith believe in what you cannot see! There is much reward for one who has faith in the unseen truth! John 20:24-29 But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."

Highway To Heaven

Highway To Heaven “I don’t want to go down that road. But I know if I don’t this matter will never get cleared up.” “You had better learn to deal with these rules, because if you don’t you won’t be here much longer.” Sometimes we don’t like what see ahead. The apprehensive or rebellious traits in us often fight against the stop signs, caution lights, and road blocks. The road before us seems to warn us there are potential dangerous crossroads ahead. We may not like what we see, but we know we must pass through some disorder, chaos or instability. Take a look under the hood of your spirit and make sure that your engine is tuned up for the journey. Get an oil change that will dispense of dirty habits so that your thoughts can run more clearly through your head. Inflate your tires that will smooth out your ride, ideals, morals and values so that you will get better gas mileage in the miles ahead. Take your vehicle and shine the body you occupy to be detailed inside and out so that you know that what you feel, how you think and the way you behave is in line with the highway guidelines to heaven. God is always in control. There will come a time you will have to give up your own plotted plan and take the road map designed to get you where you must go. Follow the One who knows the way. The Word of God John 21:15-19 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs." A second time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go." (He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, "Follow me."

Replanting Fruitful Trees

Replanting Fruitful Trees “I told you shouldn’t have trusted him. When you get to know him his true colors come out!” “Why do you view him so vindictive? He is the most merciful person I know!” “You are crazy to think him selfish. He is the most generous person I know.” We often judge a person by the way they dress, the way they speak, and the family they were raised by. We may even put a label on someone because of our own upbringing and personal experiences with another. It may behoove us to keep our negative opinions to ourselves and start speaking new life into one another. People can turn their lives around. What we know about their past may in fact be true. But everyday God touches lives and bad people are repenting. Perhaps a person’s past, their life of bad fruit, has been burnt down to the ground. And new seeds have been planted. As you see someone with the potential of sprouting, help them by offering the water of your inspiring words, give them nutrients of your good example to feed their roots, and speak to them with love so that their trees will gravitate toward goodness and grow. If in your own life your tree needs to die and take new root again find a new field with good soil to re-plant yourself and take others along with you who’s trees are also dying. Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus told the crowds, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will know them by their fruits."

The Answer Is His Will

The Answer Is His Will “You really need to stop telling me that I need to have more faith. I gave up a long time ago.” “Really, this is it? I must be really low on God’s to-do list.” “Why should I be grateful for what I have? I have nothing I ever asked for?” Our Father knows what we need before we ask Him. However, we forget or are ignorant of this great truth and can easily lose faith. We may also think that by praying repeatedly throughout the day or even giving God advice, will make something happen more quickly, more to our liking, or even more to our advantage. Perhaps what we have asked for has already been granted and we are blindly trying to modify what is already the perfect gift. Your appeal for a more prosperous job may be the one you are in now. You may not see the advantage but the promotion is on its way. The new house you desire may not be coming. You might realize at some point in the future that staying where you are is the true blessing. Your prayer request for a miracle for a cure for the sick relative you are caring for may come at the eleventh hour. Pray for what you need for the human spirit requires reassurance. However, much is to be learned, gained and enjoyed when you turn to The Holy Spirit inside you. It is there you can live with confidence in believing that your request aligned with God’s will has already been granted or in the works. The work, blessings and miracles of God are not easily recognized by a weary or hardened heart. We may not understand or even agree with God, “but His will” is always the greatest answer to our prayers. In all your brokenness, through all your trials, in your moments of triumphs, in the neutral days of idleness, God is always working on solutions for your requests and even those you’ve yet to dream up. See with eyes of faith and believe whole-heartedly in the Will of God. In doing so, you can be a witness to the sightings of the most minute and mammouth of gifts everyday of your life. Your glad heart will not care about the size of the gift, only that it can recognize and fully receive it. Give glory to God everyday of your life and submit to its imperfections. Loosen your fists and raise your hands in honor of God the Most High. And when you pray, pray like this, “Our Father, . . . Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven . . .” Matthew 6:7-15 Jesus said, "When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 'Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one. For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

Holy Manners and Sacred Etiquette

Holy Manners And Sacred Etiquette “Did you see me? I gave them all money!” “Do you think you’re above other people just because you have those fancy prayers memorized? It would be better if you just acted the way you prayed!” “I am so tired of hearing about you fasting and getting light headed. Why don’t you just tell the church you can’t do it.” We would hope when a person gives money or time it is solely for the purpose of aiding an individual. We would pray that when we see others pray it would be genuinely for strength, healing and reconciliation of their soul or of another rather than to gain attention. We would want to believe that when we see a person sacrifice for a charitable cause or fast in honor of a holy act of obedience it would be because he believed he should rather than to be noticed. There are instances when the heart desires a helping of appreciation or notice. However, there are occasions when the heart needs to discern over matters that only God should observe. Pray that you learn your true reward is not of attention from people but rather the hidden gift of grace from God. Grace from God may be voiceless in the world and indiscernible in the demanding days of our lives. However, our gifts of grace will be revealed through our private relationship with God. Be assured we will come to know that our heavenly reward is as light as an ocean breeze, as quiet as a desert night, and as loving as a mother kissing her child for the first time. In your private prayer room and holy recess of your soul reflect on the ways that you give alms and pray over the methods of which you offer assistance. Your spirit has imprints of holy manners of humbleness and sacred etiquette of charity written on its heart. It is up to you to learn to read the dialect of The Holy Spirit inside you. A single hardly visible and most gentle nuance of the hand of God in your life is worth more than all the attention you can garner over a lifetime. Matthew 6: 1-6,16-18 ‘Beware of practising your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. ‘So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. ‘And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. 'And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Steps Of Your Faith

Steps Of Your Faith “He swung at me first! What was I supposed to do just stand there and let him beat me?” “She hurts me. I hurt her. It’s always been that way.” “Sorry I can’t loan you any money. I’m going on vacation next week.” Can you go the extra mile when a lot has already been asked of you? Is it possible for you to loan another dollar to the one who has not repaid you? Is it conceivable that you could walk away from a hurtful situation and still wish someone well? What a foreign concept. Who lives like this? Imagine if Jesus had not helped those who could not help themselves. Could you picture Him ignoring those who were afflicted by deadly diseases? What if He never sat in the heat of the desert with thousands of followers and had no hope of reaching more of the faithless? Can you envision Him not silently taking the ridicule of the immoral; not bearing the beating and scourging of the wicked, and not carrying His cross for us unto His death? Had he not done these things He would be like the us. Jesus asks us to go the extra mile, loan the dollar to the one who begs, and to not retaliate against another who has wronged us. Of course it would be an inconvenience to help out for 8 hours rather than 4. It may be a hardship to loan $50 when you had it already accounted for in your budget. You may suffer ridicule and be viewed as weak when you walk away when someone has sucker punched you. Eternity is your gift. Are you still willing to walk past Jesus’ sandals that are sitting at the threshold of your spirit? Take a leap of faith and walk in Jesus’ shoes. Your steps may seem impossibly hard at times, your pace not to your liking, and your stride different than you imagined. You reward will not necessarily be in the hour of any painstaking endurance or wondrous moment of aiding another individual. But believe by your tolerance and faith you will receive the greatest gift you could ever imagine. Keep your weaker eye focused on your good deeds and the sharper one on the promise of the future not of this world. With forethought and foresight imagine where the steps of your faith can take you? Matthew 5:38-42 Jesus said to the crowds, "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you."

Your Stepping Stone

Your Stepping Stone “I can’t believe you did that again! You are useless.” “It beats me why you think the way you do! I can’t help you anyone!” “I cringe every time I see her. It’s like I’m always preparing to defend myself!” Our design is not to rob, tear down, or break one another’s spirit, but rather to nurture, teach and enrich it. The actions of others may not make sense to us, but there is a reason, hidden or revealed, that reared it. Take time to observe the energy in a home, the short temper of the irate, the laziness of the depressed, the sensitivity of the loner, the boldness of the insecure, and the rudeness of the hurting. We seem to readily respond, teach and reprimand with our heated, elevated and piercing vast array of emotions. The divine spirit that lives in us cannot be raised to its greatest potential without exercising our greatest assets. With consistency be forgiving so that the heart will not harden. With steadiness impart compassion so that the soul will stay empathetic. With faithfulness remain tolerant so that the spirit will not grow weary. With hope stay invested in trust of the Lord. Jesus did not give up on the world when it humiliated, scorned, crucified, mocked and killed him. He fulfilled his destiny by obedience to God’s commandments and rejected all that could lead him astray. Every day we have many temptations that can lead us to earthly self-centered delights that may deprive us of heavenly paradise. How you think, the words you utter, and the actions you take will always say much about what an individual offers to the world. How you love, teach faithfulness and encourage peace and hope will say much about what you offer to the great Kingdom of Heaven. A word to the wise, remain insightful to what Jesus can see. He, who is all knowing and discerning, desires to call you great in the Kingdom of Heaven. Earth is just your stepping stone to greatness. Matthew 5: 17-19 "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven."

Credits In The Bank Of The Soul

Credits In The Bank of the Soul “I know I’m wrong, but I won’t apologize to that pompous man!” “I’m always the first one to make a peace offering. It’s her turn!” “I’ve suffered plenty! I don’t have to try harder. I’ve done enough!” We speak of reconciliation, but are we waiting for the honest one to come to us? We believe we have the right to reprove or chastise another for their bad actions, but do we refuse to hear a word about our own? Have we gone so far as to act as though we have been martyred in order to gain sympathy from others? Regardless of what position we hold in life, president or the poor living on the corner, we are all subject to God’s just judgment. Be not willing to risk your life’s peace, spiritual fulfillment or let pass the fullness of the gift of Heaven for a grievance only you have the ability to resolve. Treat every misunderstanding, offense blind or intentional, disagreement miniscule or grave just the same. Jesus offers the same gift of love, peace and forgiveness to every person no matter the size or type of our transgression. With genuineness of heart express sincere remorse for wrongdoing, offer repentance to those you have offended, and make it your life’s work to unceasingly rekindle the light of peace for the sake of a world that is threatened by the darkness of our self righteous acts. You have dominion over the daily debt of your acts. Redirect your spirit so that not even a penny is owed in your name. Live to net an abundance of spiritual balance, and when you can, leave the blessing of human credits for others to invest and build in the piggy bank of their own accessible souls. Matthew 5:20-26 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. "You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, 'You shall not murder'; and 'whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.' But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, 'You fool,' you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny".

Caring May Come From A Distance

Caring May Come From A Distance “Why do you keep spending your time with her? All she does is rob you of your happy spirit?” “I don’t think they should be together. He really can’t be himself around her.” “I don’t owe her a thing! She owed me that and more!” With the same wearisome approach we may try over and over again with the same people who make us feel bad or who take advantage of our good nature. We may also be oblivious to what others see. When you are overwhelmed, distraught emotionally, puzzled by the testimony of others’ consistent negative comments, or become ill at the thought of another individual, reexamine your relationships. If you are stuck at the hip, give yourself some breathing room and prayer time. Examine your loved ones and your own past life and try to recognize the damaging patterns and work on a new approach to a healthier way of communicating. Work on allowing others to be more responsible for themselves so that you are not carrying an undue burden. If you’ve worked tirelessly to no avail, perhaps you are not the one to be another’s main caretaker, the only rock or shoulder to cry on, or best friend. Sometimes we can do more spiritually and emotionally at a healthier and safer distance. Love, forgive and offer incessantly your peace. If you do not feel tranquility when you offer your time, peace and love to another let it return to you. Pray for their reconciliation for all their relationships. Continue to greet them with kindness always leaving the door to your heart ajar for a change of heart and spirit. Jesus waits for us to come back when we stray. We are all gifted with “free will.” There will come a time in everyone’s life when we will question our motives, review our trespasses, and examine our heart. Pray that it not be when we are struggling for our last breathe. Matthew 10:7-13 Jesus said, 'As you go, proclaim the good news, "The kingdom of heaven has come near." Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for labourers deserve their food. Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.

Celebrate In The Dark or Daylight

Celebrate In The Dark or Daylight “You deserve what you put out! And you made her miserable. Live in your misery!” “I’m not responsible for her happiness. Why should I go out of my way to talk to her? She should come to me.” “I did what I thought was right. I can sleep at night.” Can you live with being unpopular because of your faith and still enjoy who you are? Can you successfully interact with others and go against much of what they do? Can you believe in and love Jesus and still support the faithless? Listen to and observe the people in your closest circles. Offer praise to others when they display virtues that resemble Christ. Refuse to spend time with those who repeatedly object to your goodness, are jealous of your charity, and who are against speaking of Jesus, the Son of God. Take delight in being forgiving, merciful, humble, and a peacemaker. Treasure your faith when you lack spirit, mourn, and when you are hungry for more than any one human being can give you. When you are well or being persecuted, go to your mountain to be blessed and comforted. Seek often quiet moments in your day and hear Jesus speak to you with the same words that have not changed in over 2000 years. Rejoice in who you are becoming, be glad for those righteous and holy people who have lived and shown the way before you. Even when faced with the darkest moments of your life, you can with hope, love and confidence celebrate the opportunities to glorify God, for Jesus proved that your reward is great in heaven. Matthew 5:1-12 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. ‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. ‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. ‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ‘Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.