MY IMMINENT PRAYER
(A personal prayer of hope and love)
Lord Jesus Christ,
Today I receive your love for my life
Without sin I will keep your commands.
I reserve your hope for times of despair
With my life I trust in you Lord.
When conflict arrives and sits at my door
I’ll seek justice and truth for my tongue.
In good times and bad I’ll seek a true heart
With Your compassion and love at my core.
When self consumes me I’ll pray for your light
You will guide me though darkness and more.
When the storm is calm and all is good
I give thanks to You, my ever loving Lord.
Inspired by:
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
On your own intelligence rely not;
In all your ways be mindful of him,
And he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 3:19-24
The Lord by wisdom founded the earth
Established the heavens by understanding
By his knowledge the depths break open
And the clouds drop down dew
My son, let not these slip out of your sight
Keep advice and counsel in view
So will they be life to your soul
And an adornment for your neck
Then you may securely go your way
Your foot will never stumble
When you lie down, you need not be afraid
When you rest your sleep will be sweet.
Brothers & Sisters In Christ
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Keep looking out the window
Have you ever prepared dinner and had just enough food for those family members you were planning for when behold another guest or two or three show up at dinner time? Woah, what will I do?
The options are to open up a can of vegetables, add a salad, or dig through the refrigerator as quickly see what you can toss together asap. Well, even if you can’t find anything, isn’t it amazing that when you bring out the extra plates (switching to smaller plates helps) and divide the food up, the portions would be smaller of course, the conversation would be lovely and everyone would “truly be satisfied.”
Or maybe you experienced this – what you’ve eaten for dinner last night was the last thing you had in the pantry to make a meal. There is no more money to go to the market for tomorrow’s dinner. You know you can cook up an egg, or eat a bowl of cereal, or break out the “pb&j”, but where oh where will dinner come from.
Suddenly, your sister calls and say, “hey stop by I made some rice, beans, carne asada and “chile”, pick it up on your way home from work.” As God as my witness I have broken out into immediate prayer giving thanks.
That’s the kind of God we have. An on time God. One who cares, one who loves. What’s my point? “Don’t worry – be happy – be confident – God will provide! He has a h-u-g-e family and he’s got them to help out. He’s working it for you!
Have faith and patience for your blessings. They will come. Keep looking out the window – there might be one there now!
Inspired by Mark 6:34-44
When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. By now it was already late and his disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already very late. Dismiss them so that they can go to their surrounding farms and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” He said to them in reply, “Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Are we to buy two hundred days’ wages worth of food and give it to them to eat?” He asked them, “Howe many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out they said, “Five loaves and two fish.” So he gave orders to have them sit down in groups on the green grass. The people took their places in rows by hundreds and by fifties. Then, taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broken the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; he also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied. And they picked up twelve wicker baskets full of fragments and what was left of the fish. Those who ate of the loaves were five thousand men.
Have you ever prepared dinner and had just enough food for those family members you were planning for when behold another guest or two or three show up at dinner time? Woah, what will I do?
The options are to open up a can of vegetables, add a salad, or dig through the refrigerator as quickly see what you can toss together asap. Well, even if you can’t find anything, isn’t it amazing that when you bring out the extra plates (switching to smaller plates helps) and divide the food up, the portions would be smaller of course, the conversation would be lovely and everyone would “truly be satisfied.”
Or maybe you experienced this – what you’ve eaten for dinner last night was the last thing you had in the pantry to make a meal. There is no more money to go to the market for tomorrow’s dinner. You know you can cook up an egg, or eat a bowl of cereal, or break out the “pb&j”, but where oh where will dinner come from.
Suddenly, your sister calls and say, “hey stop by I made some rice, beans, carne asada and “chile”, pick it up on your way home from work.” As God as my witness I have broken out into immediate prayer giving thanks.
That’s the kind of God we have. An on time God. One who cares, one who loves. What’s my point? “Don’t worry – be happy – be confident – God will provide! He has a h-u-g-e family and he’s got them to help out. He’s working it for you!
Have faith and patience for your blessings. They will come. Keep looking out the window – there might be one there now!
Inspired by Mark 6:34-44
When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. By now it was already late and his disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already very late. Dismiss them so that they can go to their surrounding farms and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” He said to them in reply, “Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Are we to buy two hundred days’ wages worth of food and give it to them to eat?” He asked them, “Howe many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out they said, “Five loaves and two fish.” So he gave orders to have them sit down in groups on the green grass. The people took their places in rows by hundreds and by fifties. Then, taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broken the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; he also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied. And they picked up twelve wicker baskets full of fragments and what was left of the fish. Those who ate of the loaves were five thousand men.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All! “What,” your thinking “Merry Christmas? Christmas is over!”
Did you take your tree down, return unwanted or ill-fitting gifts? Have you gone out shopping to spend those great gift cards or catch the sale of the year? Do you feel like all the shopping, trips to the market, hosting and attending parties, over eating and staying up late has caught up to you? Have you made all your new year’s resolutions? Have you already broken or forgotten most of them? Have you gone back to that “same ‘ol, same ‘ol routine” you had just a few weeks ago? Is your mind already into thoughts about how you will pay for the extravagant spending you just indulged in? Are you thinking about stocking up on Valentine’s Day cards and candy that already line the stores shelves? Are you gearing up and setting the dark tone for grueling days at work knowing you’ll have no days off until you accrue more time?
We are just a few days into the New Year and many of us have closed our minds to Christmas as quickly as the tree was disposed of and the decorations had been put away. Although we had the best of intentions to keep the spirit alive, already our gay spirits are waning and we feel no more renewed than last year. Our minds ignorantly or with conscious malice are already on automatic pilot reserving discouragement, rehearsing unbecoming comments, and perfecting ill attitudes to prepare ourselves for the inevitable broken promises that might include dieting or eating better, spending less money, cutting up the plastic cards, no gossiping, and being nicer to everyone no matter their attitude. Ha! That didn’t last long, what a couple of days or maybe just a few hours or as long as the beer or flavor of the month “martini” lasted?
We must not let the spirit of Christmas leave us! Taking an active part in educating ourselves and practicing daily with the Word of God as our guide is crucial so that we may be stronger people. We must believe and accept that we can live full, productive and meaningful lives when we clutch on to compassion, patience, kindness, honesty, integrity, and love shown to us by Jesus Christ.
As the days go by let us join together and continue to acknowledge our neighbors at the church, supermarket, gas station, hair dresser, and the like. More than before we can with deeper meaning say thank you and offer comforting care packages from the sincerest place in our heart to the men and women who serve our country, and be kind to worker’s who are serving us in the stores, restaurants, and businesses as a whole. We can with sincerity continue to extend wishes to all for a good day. As we extend our love day after day, courtesy in the parking lots and highways will increase and forgiveness among family and friends will become easier. We can individually, or join in groups, to pray for the sick and for those who the Lord has called. What a delight that nice warm smiles and “just because” visits will carry on. Oh, and the talk around the water cooler will be about what a wonderful thing that the supervisor did for the worker who almost lost his job, or praise about the woman who deserved the raise, and the celebration of the wonderful way we pulled together as a group to achieve success of the job at hand.
“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!” “Hi, it’s a beautiful day to be out, isn’t it?! You enjoy it now!” “Thank you for all your help “______” (read their name tag). I appreciate your assistance.” “What a pretty child you have, she looks just like you.” “Please, go ahead of me, I insist.” “Are you sisters? It’s wonderful that you are spending time together. Have a blessed day.” “Aren’t children wonderful? Enjoy them! The years go by so quickly.” “Hello. How are you doing today? What a beautiful smile you have. Thank you for brightening up my day!” “I will pray for your loved one. God is love and so I love you.” Simple greetings, heartfelt prayers, great attitudes and sincere wishes change everything don’t they?
“Change”, it all starts with you! We shouldn’t have to wait until Christmas, New Year’s, Easter or some other specially celebrated religious or non-religious calendar day of the year to become better people.
Take the initiative yourself! Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move or offer the first nicety. Fair or unfair who cares! You be the one to begin to rebuild, reconnect and make strong the links to the fast fading broken chain of kindness. Keep that Christmas spirit alive every day of the year!
And by the way, why aren’t you still celebrating Christmas? Okay, perhaps some of you have, but what about the rest of you?
What is that? You are reminding me that it’s January and you think it’s too late to be still celebrating and wishing one and all a Merry Christmas?
Agh, actually it’s not too late. Because, right now – today – we, God’s church, are still in the midst of the Season of Christmas.
Many Christians around the world celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December and only on that day. Actually, in the church, the Christmas Season runs from Christmas until the Sunday after Epiphany or after January 6, inclusive. We may not necessarily know about the “Season of Christmas” unless we went to church everyday or on Sundays, or recall this from parochial school or catechism, possess a religious calendar, or follow a daily roman missal or daily reading via the internet.
It’s interesting to note and amazing to think that we have what seems like an endless pool of information available through the “internet”, a contemporary useful tool that allows us to obtain information through a simple string or word search. We have a responsibility to choose to make good use of our time on the internet. We can responsibly take advantage of the numerous resources and educational sites available to aid us in learning about God’s Word, the Church and ways to strengthen our faith. We must use technology responsibly – we have the tools to continue to communicate, learn and advance ourselves for the good of mankind. What incredible gifts God has given us – virtuous intellect of the mind and strong and wise will of the spirit. Let’s pray that one day we will find that God related sites will be the most popular researched sites on the web!
Perhaps, this year of all years, you have never been more tired and/or feeling less than optimistic about the future. Perhaps you are feeling tapped out on the pressures, duties, and monotonous routine of life. You may be ready to break away from the “rat race” and sit still and immerse yourself in peace and quiet. You are more than willing to release the troubles that weigh heavy on your heart. You are prepared to turn your mind over completely to hear only the whispers of serenity. This is the ideal occasion to take a new route. I’m so glad to know you are eager to get started. Let’s do it!
Find that place where you can be alone. Close your eyes until the noise is gone . . . . and then, open them again.
Can you hear the clock ticking? The creaking of the house? Do you hear the water dripping on the faucet (try not to think about the fact that you’ve got to repair it).
Breathe rhythmically in and out. Clear your mind until all thoughts about what you have to do today leave you . . . Release all the tension that is built up in your shoulders. Lift one shoulder and roll it back, then the other until you feel relaxed. . . Slowly tilt your head forward, back, side to side, and then gently around in a circle until you feel at ease . . . Place one of your palms lightly on your chest. Hold your palm in place until you feel the rhythm of your heart beat. Remain in this position and state of mind until you can recognize, hear, and move in concert with that living part of the breath of life that God has given you.
Breathe slowly and intentionally. Allow the peace to embrace and comfort you and accept the love of God as it touches you through the powerful and awe inspiring silence - His gift - the only thing you are now aware of.
Now, let God – alone - into your thoughts. Allow His presence to manifest in your heart with each breath that you take. Thank Him for this wonderful gift of peace. Welcome Him into this part of your day. Feel His goodness warm your heart and fill your spirit.
Imagine now a heavenly slide show. Put into each unblemished frame all the wonderful blessings you have received over the past weeks . . . Thank God for allowing you to visit with family members you have not seen in a long time and for getting visitors home safely. Thank Him for the gifts, cards and phone calls you received through the generosity of others and the wonderful presents you were able to give . . . Offer thanks to God for your mental health that can still feed you spiritually, and for a body that breaths of life and is proof that you are in fact a living creation and blessing of God.
Now – with faith and passion wholly offer “yourself” to God in solemn and humble prayer.
Dear Lord,
Take me your son or daughter,
a sinner, and heal me.
Forgive me for the times
I turned my back to You,
those days
I stepped away from You,
those moments
I doubted Your mercy
Or Your love for me.
Thank you Lord for blessing me
and my family with precious time together.
I invite you into my life
more fully as You,
by the grace of Your Spirit,
reveal Yourself to me now.
My heart receives your goodness
as I find my way closer to You today
and in the blessing of the days to come.
And I pray to you Jesus Christ,
that through You, I ask my heavenly Father
to give me strength to endure my present trials
and those to come with piety, dignity,
love, and tolerance.
Jesus bless me with hope for myself to imitate Your unwavering
Selflessness and touch with me your heavenly wisdom.
Open my mind and make ready my heart
to be receptive, helpful and compassionate toward others
as I learn to walk in your remarkable footsteps.
Help me Jesus to make time for honoring and praising You
every day, many times a day, as You are my Savior
who will protect me, a believer in You.
Give me strength to speak confidently and
boldly of you when opportunities arise
to my spouse, parents, children,
friends and strangers, so that they
may see my love for You and they too
will become mindful of Your presence
and may be blessed and welcoming recipients
of the love You have reserved for each of them.
Grant me the wisdom to always remember
that I must do my part to bring harmony
and live in peace among your people.
And through you I ask God for the strength
to not waiver in my confidence that
You, My God, will do all that I cannot.
It is You who faithfully provides for me
and uses my circumstances
that are good, challenging,
bearing sickness and great suffering
so that I may receive and recognize
Your Will for my existence.
It is You who arranges my life
and the lives of many to touch,
interact, build, strengthen and
make greater our spirit in your perfect time.
Jesus, I ask much in your name and ask God to have mercy on my soul.
Amen.
I can feel the unity in mind and spirit growing again my friends, Christmas is not over! It lives inside of us!
Now that we’ve got a spiritual prayer at our fingertips, let’s work on a spiritual plan. Perhaps with a little bit of Church history and some thought provoking ideas we might be better prepared for next Christmas.
Within a few days Immediately following Thanksgiving, be prepared for Advent (the four weeks that precede Christmas). It is during this preparatory time we are called to ready ourselves for the joyous day of Christmas by prayers of humble devotion and commitment. The daily masses and other solemn, mindful, and prayerful opportunities offer us time for private reflections and mediations. The churches during Advent are often decorated beautifully with wreaths and evergreen trees that symbolizes not only the birth of Christ over 2,000 years ago but also places emphasis on the new and everlasting life brought through Christ in His second coming and the hope of eternal life.
Attend more masses, or better yet be a regular Sunday attendee throughout the year. Don’t go alone, bring someone along with you! Masses are designed to give us the opportunity to remember how Christ died for us and to share in the Eucharist that reminds us of God’s gift of life and hope for our future.
Then with longing ready hearts and great anticipation - Christmas Day will arrive in all its glory! Incredibly on Christmas morning you will be present in church, together with an unusually overwhelming crowd. The church pews will again be filled to their capacity with people. However, this time, as your faith is stronger than before you will feel and exude a glorious aura of joy that will hover above the congregation and its holy allure will permeate the air that rises up into the ceiling rafters.
And finally in church or your home with perhaps a table top or life size replica of the nativity scene as described in the bible you will individually, privately and possibly publicly imagine how Christ’s birth might have looked to the world at that time, what it meant to them, and ultimately now, what His birth means to you today.
By next year you will be in a heightened spiritual place and will react differently when the priest addresses the congregation on Christmas morning, “It’s wonderful to have the church full with all of you here today. However, we do have mass every Sunday.” There will be a few light chuckles and a lot of swallowing hard and a stilling silence that will be oddly audible. But this time you will be sitting in the presence of God with a defined elevated level of faith and adoration in your heart. (FYI - we have a daily opportunity to give praise and receive “Our Lord” at communion everyday of the year. There is a mass every day in the Catholic Church –and a few hours to choose from too – who knew we could go to church on our days off, before or after work? – it’s a great way to work on a closer relationship with God, don’t you think?)
You will find that the masses during the Christmas Season are as joyous as Christmas Day as the church continues to celebrate Christ’s birth each Sunday in praise, hymns and prayer.
If you must remove your tree from your home after Christmas Day because it has become too dry for safety reasons, leave in place your nativity scene and other decorations that will remind you that Christmas is still being celebrated and that your heart may remain joyous through the day of the Epiphany celebrated in the Church.
Since Christmas Day during the Catholic Church masses we have heard many accounts of the days that preceded Christ and testimonies of those who told about the Savior’s coming, the details of the day of Christ’s humble birth, and also the special celebrations that followed. We also have the beautiful words written by John that read in part,
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . “,
“And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw His glory, the glory of the Father’s only-begotten Son, full of grace and truth . . .”,
“No one has ever seen God. The only-begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed Him.”
Heavy, moving, and life changing!
(these and other readings are available in our bibles, through the use of a “Daily Roman Missal” or could be viewed on the internet. I knew you were wondering – I’m one step ahead of ya! What are friends for?)
The common underlying thread that is prevalent in all these accounts during Christmas Season is that God’s truth was revealed about a Savior for the world and that those who have love, hope, faith, and believe in Jesus will become children of God. “As proof that you are children, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father!’ So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.” Gal. 4:6-7. We have been left with a legacy of powerful words. Isn’t it incredible to know you are a part of God’s great Kingdom!
In our modern times there are very few testimonies recorded that compare to the life changing accounts written in the bible. However, people do have personal stories about how God has touched their lives. It is only through a close daily relationship that we might be able to recognize God’s presence and share our own stories with others. Part of the benefit of sharing personal accounts is that we might bring hope to others through our own experiences.
We do not have to wait until the ringing in of a new year to deepen our relationship with God. Every day, with every breath and in every circumstance whether good, bad or indifferent, we have an opportunity to strengthen our relationship and understand the power of the Holy Trinity using the gifts of our mind, body and spirit. In all these things that have been afforded us by God’s grace let us use them to honor God, imitate Jesus and to live lives like the Holy Family.
Allow your faith in God to show on the outside as you respond to life’s joys, ordinary instances, and harmful inequities with actions that depict faith, righteousness, caring, and most of all unconditional love.
During these beautiful days of Christmas, and every day, let us open our hearts and allow the miracle of the Season of Christmas to change us forever.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All! “What,” your thinking “Merry Christmas? Christmas is over!”
Did you take your tree down, return unwanted or ill-fitting gifts? Have you gone out shopping to spend those great gift cards or catch the sale of the year? Do you feel like all the shopping, trips to the market, hosting and attending parties, over eating and staying up late has caught up to you? Have you made all your new year’s resolutions? Have you already broken or forgotten most of them? Have you gone back to that “same ‘ol, same ‘ol routine” you had just a few weeks ago? Is your mind already into thoughts about how you will pay for the extravagant spending you just indulged in? Are you thinking about stocking up on Valentine’s Day cards and candy that already line the stores shelves? Are you gearing up and setting the dark tone for grueling days at work knowing you’ll have no days off until you accrue more time?
We are just a few days into the New Year and many of us have closed our minds to Christmas as quickly as the tree was disposed of and the decorations had been put away. Although we had the best of intentions to keep the spirit alive, already our gay spirits are waning and we feel no more renewed than last year. Our minds ignorantly or with conscious malice are already on automatic pilot reserving discouragement, rehearsing unbecoming comments, and perfecting ill attitudes to prepare ourselves for the inevitable broken promises that might include dieting or eating better, spending less money, cutting up the plastic cards, no gossiping, and being nicer to everyone no matter their attitude. Ha! That didn’t last long, what a couple of days or maybe just a few hours or as long as the beer or flavor of the month “martini” lasted?
We must not let the spirit of Christmas leave us! Taking an active part in educating ourselves and practicing daily with the Word of God as our guide is crucial so that we may be stronger people. We must believe and accept that we can live full, productive and meaningful lives when we clutch on to compassion, patience, kindness, honesty, integrity, and love shown to us by Jesus Christ.
As the days go by let us join together and continue to acknowledge our neighbors at the church, supermarket, gas station, hair dresser, and the like. More than before we can with deeper meaning say thank you and offer comforting care packages from the sincerest place in our heart to the men and women who serve our country, and be kind to worker’s who are serving us in the stores, restaurants, and businesses as a whole. We can with sincerity continue to extend wishes to all for a good day. As we extend our love day after day, courtesy in the parking lots and highways will increase and forgiveness among family and friends will become easier. We can individually, or join in groups, to pray for the sick and for those who the Lord has called. What a delight that nice warm smiles and “just because” visits will carry on. Oh, and the talk around the water cooler will be about what a wonderful thing that the supervisor did for the worker who almost lost his job, or praise about the woman who deserved the raise, and the celebration of the wonderful way we pulled together as a group to achieve success of the job at hand.
“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!” “Hi, it’s a beautiful day to be out, isn’t it?! You enjoy it now!” “Thank you for all your help “______” (read their name tag). I appreciate your assistance.” “What a pretty child you have, she looks just like you.” “Please, go ahead of me, I insist.” “Are you sisters? It’s wonderful that you are spending time together. Have a blessed day.” “Aren’t children wonderful? Enjoy them! The years go by so quickly.” “Hello. How are you doing today? What a beautiful smile you have. Thank you for brightening up my day!” “I will pray for your loved one. God is love and so I love you.” Simple greetings, heartfelt prayers, great attitudes and sincere wishes change everything don’t they?
“Change”, it all starts with you! We shouldn’t have to wait until Christmas, New Year’s, Easter or some other specially celebrated religious or non-religious calendar day of the year to become better people.
Take the initiative yourself! Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move or offer the first nicety. Fair or unfair who cares! You be the one to begin to rebuild, reconnect and make strong the links to the fast fading broken chain of kindness. Keep that Christmas spirit alive every day of the year!
And by the way, why aren’t you still celebrating Christmas? Okay, perhaps some of you have, but what about the rest of you?
What is that? You are reminding me that it’s January and you think it’s too late to be still celebrating and wishing one and all a Merry Christmas?
Agh, actually it’s not too late. Because, right now – today – we, God’s church, are still in the midst of the Season of Christmas.
Many Christians around the world celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December and only on that day. Actually, in the church, the Christmas Season runs from Christmas until the Sunday after Epiphany or after January 6, inclusive. We may not necessarily know about the “Season of Christmas” unless we went to church everyday or on Sundays, or recall this from parochial school or catechism, possess a religious calendar, or follow a daily roman missal or daily reading via the internet.
It’s interesting to note and amazing to think that we have what seems like an endless pool of information available through the “internet”, a contemporary useful tool that allows us to obtain information through a simple string or word search. We have a responsibility to choose to make good use of our time on the internet. We can responsibly take advantage of the numerous resources and educational sites available to aid us in learning about God’s Word, the Church and ways to strengthen our faith. We must use technology responsibly – we have the tools to continue to communicate, learn and advance ourselves for the good of mankind. What incredible gifts God has given us – virtuous intellect of the mind and strong and wise will of the spirit. Let’s pray that one day we will find that God related sites will be the most popular researched sites on the web!
Perhaps, this year of all years, you have never been more tired and/or feeling less than optimistic about the future. Perhaps you are feeling tapped out on the pressures, duties, and monotonous routine of life. You may be ready to break away from the “rat race” and sit still and immerse yourself in peace and quiet. You are more than willing to release the troubles that weigh heavy on your heart. You are prepared to turn your mind over completely to hear only the whispers of serenity. This is the ideal occasion to take a new route. I’m so glad to know you are eager to get started. Let’s do it!
Find that place where you can be alone. Close your eyes until the noise is gone . . . . and then, open them again.
Can you hear the clock ticking? The creaking of the house? Do you hear the water dripping on the faucet (try not to think about the fact that you’ve got to repair it).
Breathe rhythmically in and out. Clear your mind until all thoughts about what you have to do today leave you . . . Release all the tension that is built up in your shoulders. Lift one shoulder and roll it back, then the other until you feel relaxed. . . Slowly tilt your head forward, back, side to side, and then gently around in a circle until you feel at ease . . . Place one of your palms lightly on your chest. Hold your palm in place until you feel the rhythm of your heart beat. Remain in this position and state of mind until you can recognize, hear, and move in concert with that living part of the breath of life that God has given you.
Breathe slowly and intentionally. Allow the peace to embrace and comfort you and accept the love of God as it touches you through the powerful and awe inspiring silence - His gift - the only thing you are now aware of.
Now, let God – alone - into your thoughts. Allow His presence to manifest in your heart with each breath that you take. Thank Him for this wonderful gift of peace. Welcome Him into this part of your day. Feel His goodness warm your heart and fill your spirit.
Imagine now a heavenly slide show. Put into each unblemished frame all the wonderful blessings you have received over the past weeks . . . Thank God for allowing you to visit with family members you have not seen in a long time and for getting visitors home safely. Thank Him for the gifts, cards and phone calls you received through the generosity of others and the wonderful presents you were able to give . . . Offer thanks to God for your mental health that can still feed you spiritually, and for a body that breaths of life and is proof that you are in fact a living creation and blessing of God.
Now – with faith and passion wholly offer “yourself” to God in solemn and humble prayer.
Dear Lord,
Take me your son or daughter,
a sinner, and heal me.
Forgive me for the times
I turned my back to You,
those days
I stepped away from You,
those moments
I doubted Your mercy
Or Your love for me.
Thank you Lord for blessing me
and my family with precious time together.
I invite you into my life
more fully as You,
by the grace of Your Spirit,
reveal Yourself to me now.
My heart receives your goodness
as I find my way closer to You today
and in the blessing of the days to come.
And I pray to you Jesus Christ,
that through You, I ask my heavenly Father
to give me strength to endure my present trials
and those to come with piety, dignity,
love, and tolerance.
Jesus bless me with hope for myself to imitate Your unwavering
Selflessness and touch with me your heavenly wisdom.
Open my mind and make ready my heart
to be receptive, helpful and compassionate toward others
as I learn to walk in your remarkable footsteps.
Help me Jesus to make time for honoring and praising You
every day, many times a day, as You are my Savior
who will protect me, a believer in You.
Give me strength to speak confidently and
boldly of you when opportunities arise
to my spouse, parents, children,
friends and strangers, so that they
may see my love for You and they too
will become mindful of Your presence
and may be blessed and welcoming recipients
of the love You have reserved for each of them.
Grant me the wisdom to always remember
that I must do my part to bring harmony
and live in peace among your people.
And through you I ask God for the strength
to not waiver in my confidence that
You, My God, will do all that I cannot.
It is You who faithfully provides for me
and uses my circumstances
that are good, challenging,
bearing sickness and great suffering
so that I may receive and recognize
Your Will for my existence.
It is You who arranges my life
and the lives of many to touch,
interact, build, strengthen and
make greater our spirit in your perfect time.
Jesus, I ask much in your name and ask God to have mercy on my soul.
Amen.
I can feel the unity in mind and spirit growing again my friends, Christmas is not over! It lives inside of us!
Now that we’ve got a spiritual prayer at our fingertips, let’s work on a spiritual plan. Perhaps with a little bit of Church history and some thought provoking ideas we might be better prepared for next Christmas.
Within a few days Immediately following Thanksgiving, be prepared for Advent (the four weeks that precede Christmas). It is during this preparatory time we are called to ready ourselves for the joyous day of Christmas by prayers of humble devotion and commitment. The daily masses and other solemn, mindful, and prayerful opportunities offer us time for private reflections and mediations. The churches during Advent are often decorated beautifully with wreaths and evergreen trees that symbolizes not only the birth of Christ over 2,000 years ago but also places emphasis on the new and everlasting life brought through Christ in His second coming and the hope of eternal life.
Attend more masses, or better yet be a regular Sunday attendee throughout the year. Don’t go alone, bring someone along with you! Masses are designed to give us the opportunity to remember how Christ died for us and to share in the Eucharist that reminds us of God’s gift of life and hope for our future.
Then with longing ready hearts and great anticipation - Christmas Day will arrive in all its glory! Incredibly on Christmas morning you will be present in church, together with an unusually overwhelming crowd. The church pews will again be filled to their capacity with people. However, this time, as your faith is stronger than before you will feel and exude a glorious aura of joy that will hover above the congregation and its holy allure will permeate the air that rises up into the ceiling rafters.
And finally in church or your home with perhaps a table top or life size replica of the nativity scene as described in the bible you will individually, privately and possibly publicly imagine how Christ’s birth might have looked to the world at that time, what it meant to them, and ultimately now, what His birth means to you today.
By next year you will be in a heightened spiritual place and will react differently when the priest addresses the congregation on Christmas morning, “It’s wonderful to have the church full with all of you here today. However, we do have mass every Sunday.” There will be a few light chuckles and a lot of swallowing hard and a stilling silence that will be oddly audible. But this time you will be sitting in the presence of God with a defined elevated level of faith and adoration in your heart. (FYI - we have a daily opportunity to give praise and receive “Our Lord” at communion everyday of the year. There is a mass every day in the Catholic Church –and a few hours to choose from too – who knew we could go to church on our days off, before or after work? – it’s a great way to work on a closer relationship with God, don’t you think?)
You will find that the masses during the Christmas Season are as joyous as Christmas Day as the church continues to celebrate Christ’s birth each Sunday in praise, hymns and prayer.
If you must remove your tree from your home after Christmas Day because it has become too dry for safety reasons, leave in place your nativity scene and other decorations that will remind you that Christmas is still being celebrated and that your heart may remain joyous through the day of the Epiphany celebrated in the Church.
Since Christmas Day during the Catholic Church masses we have heard many accounts of the days that preceded Christ and testimonies of those who told about the Savior’s coming, the details of the day of Christ’s humble birth, and also the special celebrations that followed. We also have the beautiful words written by John that read in part,
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . “,
“And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw His glory, the glory of the Father’s only-begotten Son, full of grace and truth . . .”,
“No one has ever seen God. The only-begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed Him.”
Heavy, moving, and life changing!
(these and other readings are available in our bibles, through the use of a “Daily Roman Missal” or could be viewed on the internet. I knew you were wondering – I’m one step ahead of ya! What are friends for?)
The common underlying thread that is prevalent in all these accounts during Christmas Season is that God’s truth was revealed about a Savior for the world and that those who have love, hope, faith, and believe in Jesus will become children of God. “As proof that you are children, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father!’ So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.” Gal. 4:6-7. We have been left with a legacy of powerful words. Isn’t it incredible to know you are a part of God’s great Kingdom!
In our modern times there are very few testimonies recorded that compare to the life changing accounts written in the bible. However, people do have personal stories about how God has touched their lives. It is only through a close daily relationship that we might be able to recognize God’s presence and share our own stories with others. Part of the benefit of sharing personal accounts is that we might bring hope to others through our own experiences.
We do not have to wait until the ringing in of a new year to deepen our relationship with God. Every day, with every breath and in every circumstance whether good, bad or indifferent, we have an opportunity to strengthen our relationship and understand the power of the Holy Trinity using the gifts of our mind, body and spirit. In all these things that have been afforded us by God’s grace let us use them to honor God, imitate Jesus and to live lives like the Holy Family.
Allow your faith in God to show on the outside as you respond to life’s joys, ordinary instances, and harmful inequities with actions that depict faith, righteousness, caring, and most of all unconditional love.
During these beautiful days of Christmas, and every day, let us open our hearts and allow the miracle of the Season of Christmas to change us forever.
Friday, December 25, 2009
A Christmas Day/Eve Prayer
From All of Us
Our New Tradition
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 we gather around the tree to share the gift of giving and honor Jesus on this glorious holy night.
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 new tradition tonight 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 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!
From All of Us
Our New Tradition
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 we gather around the tree to share the gift of giving and honor Jesus on this glorious holy night.
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 new tradition tonight 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 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!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
To My Mother At Christmas –
You Are My Gift Today And Always
(December 2009)
To my mother the writer, poetic one, special friend and gifted person with words of wisdom always on the tip of her tongue and at her fingertips:
Thank you for being alive with encouraging spirit in Christ as you share so freely your thoughts and feelings with me. You take the time, as no other person has, to engage in delightful, serious, light, deep, and silly conversations always with hints of righteousness and good virtue at heart. You continuously with unending energy and commitment offer yourself to me unselfishly until the wee hours of the morning or night upon a moment’s notice.
I have been blessed tenfold, and was able to recognize it early in my life that you, my earthly spiritual guider, would touch me and others as you have been touched by the graceful hand of Christ.
The words that come to my heart and flow out through to my hands I believe are from the grace of God and they make defining imprints on my life, as you have done for me personally through out all my years. I pray that God keep alive the gift of words that come from places within me that are mortally foreign yet spiritually familiar. However, genetically I believe my gift and inheritance was passed down from and received through your model personal lineage. Good fruit does not fall from the tree.
One’s God given gift must be shared and I encourage you, and all God’s church, to record personal feelings of your faith as you will find that the ever more powerful depth of your beliefs will be revealed through this incredible personal journey and process, albeit on paper, but also made strong through prayer and faith, but one that must be left as a legacy to me, your children and generations to come as we all share in the same hope and are all servants of the Lord.
Always your encouraging responses, reinforcing soulful thoughts and traditional ideals are poignant and insightful and your authored lines come to life in my hungry eyes and offer hope to an imperfect world that I am a part of and I look forward to them with a joyful and expectant heart waiting to absorb, learn and be responsible for what I can take on as my eyes are opened to how I live, where I fall short, and the tribulations of mankind.
It's as if what you articulate so simply comes from peoples' hearts and somehow what you note touches mine and inspiration comes from my core full force. I pray that there are many who feel like you do, and as we admit to our shortcomings, we might go into the untapped depths of our hearts and come out different people, ones that would be eager to please God consistently, even more today than the days past that have already been written in stone.
I don't know if its the decorated pine tree, the white twinkling lights, the special songs that are floating through the vaulted ceilings in my warm home, the wonderful precious moments with my husband that I am savoring, and/or my children and grandchildren that I am near to now that I have been able to spend wonderful snippets of time that is making me feel so complete, tender, cheery, affectionate, lively and of course, teary (sniff, sniff).
What I do know for sure is that the presence of God is with me now and always, and with just that, I know that I am blessed and thankful for what I have today, however great or small, it is what should be for me now for God knows what I need and when.
You are one of my greatest blessings and my cup runneth over with tears, smiles and songs of joy of our memories of the past, heartfelt talks, emotional hugs that could not be described with mere words however eloquent, that I hold in a multitude of tiny hidden crevices in my heart that will remain untouched, safe, and sound forever.
I celebrate Christmas this year, as I have in the past, however with more faith, love and compassion in my heart than ever. Perhaps that comes with age and life's trials, tribulations and triumphs (oh sounds like a great title) and a decidedly greater trust and devotion in my heart to my God, Lord and Savior.
I have faith that there is a Heaven and as I look at the nativity scene with Jesus at its center it brings a reality to the almost unfathomable truth that Jesus' coming gave us the birth right to the inevitability of that special place not of this world, and it will be in that place that I, you, and the believers in Christ, will reunite with all our family, friends, and brothers and sisters who will go before or after us.
It is in Heaven that I see my own father, grandparents and all those who have gone to their rest. I miss him, my father, terribly as do many others and my heart is at times burdened with great grief. But then relief comes when the Lord gently nudges and touches me and He brings me comfort and encouragement to continue on as quickly as my next breath.
The miracle of Christmas is an awe-inspiring gift as it almost magically touches and transforms the spirit of humanity. It’s incredible to witness how its reference and mere existence causes a world to change and the aurora of delight and joy find their way inexplicably into our obscure and many times hardened hearts. With lives well lived and equally days gone awry we are able to incredibly filter, experience and tuck away many depths of a mix of emotions and somehow, for the most part, pull through challenges with good cheer as the season settles upon us.
During this special time of year for many of us, we can sink into personal pain from recollections of our losses in the past, relish in brighter times recalled through photographs and moments embossed in our personal memories, and relive and take pleasure in feelings of delight and contentment for wonderful past times spent.
Sometimes simultaneously, separately, privately, and oddly with no conscious effort of our own, planned out thoughts or routines to move us through the bumps, ups, downs, cracks, or less traveled roads, we can experience the most incredible diverse blend of emotions within ourselves with no real evidence to the world that we’ve been through a whirlwind of memories, experiences, or accounts bitter and sweet, and then somehow our intricate minds bring us back to that spirit of Christmas and an odd stillness and wholeness as mysterious and miraculous as the birth of Jesus consumes us.
That's what peace and love of Christmas is about, the merry times, smooth rides, the roller coaster, the dark days, the insignificant moments that add up to life all incredibly and perfectly blended together in a meringue of hope that creates a comforting warm serenity that relaxes us, a calm and harmonious feeling that sustains us and that is incredibly and euphorically absorbed in our intricate psyche and turns into something wonderfully touching, stirring, pure, white, gentle and as light as whipped cream.
I pray for many healthy years with you, my mother, for there’s so much for us still to share. Also at this time I believe you’d join me in prayer for the people of the world to work toward peace and harmony (such a cliché – however so desperately needed and yet blatantly ignored). We have the blessing of today and the one’s to come, God willing, to make a difference. But more importantly we have this Christmas and a definite tickle under our red noses to remind us that we have the love of God and each other to support us in good times and bad, celebrations and remembrances, in the cold and darkness, in the light and all the times of our lives. We also share in the miracle of life in our present and for our future, and together we can with unity receive the love of Christ and the incredible life to come – all these blessings from our God who so loves the people of the world!
Merry Christmas to you Mom – and if you don’t mind me taking this opportunity to wish a Very Merry Christmas to all the followers of Christ – may your love for Him grow daily, and your heart grow closer in fellowship with your neighbor – a stranger is only a stranger because you haven’t talked, offered your helping hand or acknowledged him just yet. Love the world as Christ showed and loved us.
With all my love and yours in Christ, Me!
(Cec – the eldest of your children, I hoped you knew it was me – just in case – you were unsure – because you do have other incredibly gifted children - who might have such thoughts written in their hearts or in a personal journal about their mother.)
P.S. Thank you Mary, Mother of Jesus, for receiving God’s gift of the incredible blessing on your life and for raising and giving your Son to the world for its salvation!
Inspired by: (Mom - your “coming out” – the world must know what I have known – just smile as I do everyday when I think of you!)
(Here's my mom keeping it real! - Not to worry Mom, your other writings won't be posted here, they'll be in our book!)
Cecelia.... Of course I absolutely loved, loved, loved it (“Writing posted: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”). All so true. Why are we humans as we are? I hope your message gets to every single being possible. I smiled with pride of course through the entire time reading and agreeing, wishing I hadn't been responsible for the very behavior you write about.
Wouldn't it be lovely, and pleasing to our dear Savior if we all took your Wisdom and Advise and followed it without failure. But, we will read and agree, and feel the warm determination to change because the feeling during this time feels right and so good! (God like of course... ) And of course we become so determined. Oh, we all may try for a time but before you know it.. we go back and slip into old habits without giving it any thought.
I hope we hang on a little longer this time round, because today at this time and under the circumstances many of us are experiencing, never believing we would ever come to walk in these shoes... whatever that may be, of course different for all of us. We all have thought it would never happen to us, to someone else but not us. We need compassion and a God like love of ourselves, for each other, be it not only family but neighbors and strangers.
Well, listen to me going on! If just my prayers would be answered, that your message be read and read again, and that whoever reads it really gets it. That they carry out what at this time of the year comes with ease and with apparent "sincere warmth in their hearts". (You know... you kind of feel it.) I do see and cross paths with a lot of smiling faces and greeting these days, some that I initiate and others actually connect with me first. It's very enjoyable!
Forgive me if I got off message.... Your message is truthful & "WONDERFUL" as always. I got unnecessarily a little carried away. (It's late after midnight so I didn't read this before sending it off to you.)
Well, my darling daughter, I am losing it, but you, you're a "Winner" and I'm humbly proud to be your Mother. I love your work, I know He loves you and I certainly can't imagine how I could love you more!
Of course this note comes from just "Me",
oxox's from your "Mom"
You Are My Gift Today And Always
(December 2009)
To my mother the writer, poetic one, special friend and gifted person with words of wisdom always on the tip of her tongue and at her fingertips:
Thank you for being alive with encouraging spirit in Christ as you share so freely your thoughts and feelings with me. You take the time, as no other person has, to engage in delightful, serious, light, deep, and silly conversations always with hints of righteousness and good virtue at heart. You continuously with unending energy and commitment offer yourself to me unselfishly until the wee hours of the morning or night upon a moment’s notice.
I have been blessed tenfold, and was able to recognize it early in my life that you, my earthly spiritual guider, would touch me and others as you have been touched by the graceful hand of Christ.
The words that come to my heart and flow out through to my hands I believe are from the grace of God and they make defining imprints on my life, as you have done for me personally through out all my years. I pray that God keep alive the gift of words that come from places within me that are mortally foreign yet spiritually familiar. However, genetically I believe my gift and inheritance was passed down from and received through your model personal lineage. Good fruit does not fall from the tree.
One’s God given gift must be shared and I encourage you, and all God’s church, to record personal feelings of your faith as you will find that the ever more powerful depth of your beliefs will be revealed through this incredible personal journey and process, albeit on paper, but also made strong through prayer and faith, but one that must be left as a legacy to me, your children and generations to come as we all share in the same hope and are all servants of the Lord.
Always your encouraging responses, reinforcing soulful thoughts and traditional ideals are poignant and insightful and your authored lines come to life in my hungry eyes and offer hope to an imperfect world that I am a part of and I look forward to them with a joyful and expectant heart waiting to absorb, learn and be responsible for what I can take on as my eyes are opened to how I live, where I fall short, and the tribulations of mankind.
It's as if what you articulate so simply comes from peoples' hearts and somehow what you note touches mine and inspiration comes from my core full force. I pray that there are many who feel like you do, and as we admit to our shortcomings, we might go into the untapped depths of our hearts and come out different people, ones that would be eager to please God consistently, even more today than the days past that have already been written in stone.
I don't know if its the decorated pine tree, the white twinkling lights, the special songs that are floating through the vaulted ceilings in my warm home, the wonderful precious moments with my husband that I am savoring, and/or my children and grandchildren that I am near to now that I have been able to spend wonderful snippets of time that is making me feel so complete, tender, cheery, affectionate, lively and of course, teary (sniff, sniff).
What I do know for sure is that the presence of God is with me now and always, and with just that, I know that I am blessed and thankful for what I have today, however great or small, it is what should be for me now for God knows what I need and when.
You are one of my greatest blessings and my cup runneth over with tears, smiles and songs of joy of our memories of the past, heartfelt talks, emotional hugs that could not be described with mere words however eloquent, that I hold in a multitude of tiny hidden crevices in my heart that will remain untouched, safe, and sound forever.
I celebrate Christmas this year, as I have in the past, however with more faith, love and compassion in my heart than ever. Perhaps that comes with age and life's trials, tribulations and triumphs (oh sounds like a great title) and a decidedly greater trust and devotion in my heart to my God, Lord and Savior.
I have faith that there is a Heaven and as I look at the nativity scene with Jesus at its center it brings a reality to the almost unfathomable truth that Jesus' coming gave us the birth right to the inevitability of that special place not of this world, and it will be in that place that I, you, and the believers in Christ, will reunite with all our family, friends, and brothers and sisters who will go before or after us.
It is in Heaven that I see my own father, grandparents and all those who have gone to their rest. I miss him, my father, terribly as do many others and my heart is at times burdened with great grief. But then relief comes when the Lord gently nudges and touches me and He brings me comfort and encouragement to continue on as quickly as my next breath.
The miracle of Christmas is an awe-inspiring gift as it almost magically touches and transforms the spirit of humanity. It’s incredible to witness how its reference and mere existence causes a world to change and the aurora of delight and joy find their way inexplicably into our obscure and many times hardened hearts. With lives well lived and equally days gone awry we are able to incredibly filter, experience and tuck away many depths of a mix of emotions and somehow, for the most part, pull through challenges with good cheer as the season settles upon us.
During this special time of year for many of us, we can sink into personal pain from recollections of our losses in the past, relish in brighter times recalled through photographs and moments embossed in our personal memories, and relive and take pleasure in feelings of delight and contentment for wonderful past times spent.
Sometimes simultaneously, separately, privately, and oddly with no conscious effort of our own, planned out thoughts or routines to move us through the bumps, ups, downs, cracks, or less traveled roads, we can experience the most incredible diverse blend of emotions within ourselves with no real evidence to the world that we’ve been through a whirlwind of memories, experiences, or accounts bitter and sweet, and then somehow our intricate minds bring us back to that spirit of Christmas and an odd stillness and wholeness as mysterious and miraculous as the birth of Jesus consumes us.
That's what peace and love of Christmas is about, the merry times, smooth rides, the roller coaster, the dark days, the insignificant moments that add up to life all incredibly and perfectly blended together in a meringue of hope that creates a comforting warm serenity that relaxes us, a calm and harmonious feeling that sustains us and that is incredibly and euphorically absorbed in our intricate psyche and turns into something wonderfully touching, stirring, pure, white, gentle and as light as whipped cream.
I pray for many healthy years with you, my mother, for there’s so much for us still to share. Also at this time I believe you’d join me in prayer for the people of the world to work toward peace and harmony (such a cliché – however so desperately needed and yet blatantly ignored). We have the blessing of today and the one’s to come, God willing, to make a difference. But more importantly we have this Christmas and a definite tickle under our red noses to remind us that we have the love of God and each other to support us in good times and bad, celebrations and remembrances, in the cold and darkness, in the light and all the times of our lives. We also share in the miracle of life in our present and for our future, and together we can with unity receive the love of Christ and the incredible life to come – all these blessings from our God who so loves the people of the world!
Merry Christmas to you Mom – and if you don’t mind me taking this opportunity to wish a Very Merry Christmas to all the followers of Christ – may your love for Him grow daily, and your heart grow closer in fellowship with your neighbor – a stranger is only a stranger because you haven’t talked, offered your helping hand or acknowledged him just yet. Love the world as Christ showed and loved us.
With all my love and yours in Christ, Me!
(Cec – the eldest of your children, I hoped you knew it was me – just in case – you were unsure – because you do have other incredibly gifted children - who might have such thoughts written in their hearts or in a personal journal about their mother.)
P.S. Thank you Mary, Mother of Jesus, for receiving God’s gift of the incredible blessing on your life and for raising and giving your Son to the world for its salvation!
Inspired by: (Mom - your “coming out” – the world must know what I have known – just smile as I do everyday when I think of you!)
(Here's my mom keeping it real! - Not to worry Mom, your other writings won't be posted here, they'll be in our book!)
Cecelia.... Of course I absolutely loved, loved, loved it (“Writing posted: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”). All so true. Why are we humans as we are? I hope your message gets to every single being possible. I smiled with pride of course through the entire time reading and agreeing, wishing I hadn't been responsible for the very behavior you write about.
Wouldn't it be lovely, and pleasing to our dear Savior if we all took your Wisdom and Advise and followed it without failure. But, we will read and agree, and feel the warm determination to change because the feeling during this time feels right and so good! (God like of course... ) And of course we become so determined. Oh, we all may try for a time but before you know it.. we go back and slip into old habits without giving it any thought.
I hope we hang on a little longer this time round, because today at this time and under the circumstances many of us are experiencing, never believing we would ever come to walk in these shoes... whatever that may be, of course different for all of us. We all have thought it would never happen to us, to someone else but not us. We need compassion and a God like love of ourselves, for each other, be it not only family but neighbors and strangers.
Well, listen to me going on! If just my prayers would be answered, that your message be read and read again, and that whoever reads it really gets it. That they carry out what at this time of the year comes with ease and with apparent "sincere warmth in their hearts". (You know... you kind of feel it.) I do see and cross paths with a lot of smiling faces and greeting these days, some that I initiate and others actually connect with me first. It's very enjoyable!
Forgive me if I got off message.... Your message is truthful & "WONDERFUL" as always. I got unnecessarily a little carried away. (It's late after midnight so I didn't read this before sending it off to you.)
Well, my darling daughter, I am losing it, but you, you're a "Winner" and I'm humbly proud to be your Mother. I love your work, I know He loves you and I certainly can't imagine how I could love you more!
Of course this note comes from just "Me",
oxox's from your "Mom"
Monday, December 14, 2009
iTs tHe MoSt WoNdErFuL TiMe Of ThE yEaR!
It’s encouraging, uplifting, inspiring, and heartwarming to see how we, the Christian Community, transform every year during the month of December. Soon after the golden brown turkey, tart cranberry relish, and spiced pumpkin pie have been consumed at the Thanksgiving dinner table the wonderful twinkling bright lights then trim our homes and neighborhoods and once a year bring to life the Christmas Season. As a family we shop, transport, and set up fancy or simply decorated fragrant pine trees that house our numerous gifts at its base and it sits prominently in our living rooms temporarily making us feel warmly connected to the cold winter and holiday season.
However, we begin to move further away from the original gift of Christmas as we stand in long lines and lose sleep over a frenzy of special shopping days, stretching ourselves and spending scarce cash to find that perfect gift for everyone on our list “tHiS yEaR”. People are of good cheer (FoR tHe MosT pArT), friends and family make time for visiting each other accepting invitations and attending holiday parties (iF tHey ArEn’T FiGhTiNg AnD iF tHeY cAn FoRgiVe OnE aNoThEr –WoUlD YoU SaY wE ArE A LittLe LeSS ThAn pErFeCt?). We enjoy the warm enticing aroma of sweet sugar and spices that reveal the familiar labors of love and traditions in the kitchen that fill our homes and workplaces year after year. We nibble and nibble and eventually right out gorge on buffet tables of rich foods and desserts and miserably within one month from over indulgence and the lack of physical activity fill in every spare inch of our jeans.
How is it that we can we fill our hearts with joy and excitement during this time of year and then completely detach ourselves and revert back to a place that is neither exhilarating nor mildly over the top pleasurable? What is it that gets turned on inside us and gives us the fearless incentive to placidly or greatly improve our less than perfect attitudes and allows us to express a sense of calmness, patience, compassion and generosity rather than our normal and inconsistent temper, judgmental eyes, and a cool and “Scrooge-like” heart? Why aren’t we participating and enjoying the incredible “gift of giving ourselves” everyday rather than reserving it only for a few short weeks that seem to begin after Thanksgiving Day and ending at the ring-in of the New Year. It’s time to say goodbye to our old limited ways of the past so that we may experience in abundance the “true meaning of Christmas” everyday in our lives!
There is something incredibly powerful and physically intangible about “hope, love and joy” for all of us that is brought to life during the weeks that precede Christmas Day. The almost in-descript feeling of cheer and good tidings is not something discussed and taught in a classroom setting as it is more an imitation of behavior that is passed down through generations of Christian families. Feelings of closeness and thoughtfulness connect us without emotional words. We have now within our power, and more than ever an obligation to our families and friends and for generations to come, to be an example of a living ambassador for Christ. We must earnestly take advantage of each new year, and better yet each day, situation, and moment to keep hope, love and joy alive in our hearts. Living in this caring state of faith, trust and anticipation our lives will naturally touch and connect us to each other and to God.
Our feelings and behavior are shaped by our “attitudes” and “mindsets”. We hear from television commercials and songs that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year! We buy into the idea of “be of good cheer” as a natural way to feel only during “the holidays”. Well here’s a novel idea for all 12 months, “be a good model and of good cheer all the days of your life.” Simple positive actions and attitudes speak louder than words or philosophies. Consistency and confidence in the name of goodness and righteousness will always win out over a self-serving way of thinking, mild and morally wrong approach, weak or negative point of view. Be steady, unswerving, unfailing, and regularly in concert with others for their benefit, and see how the world around you improves and progresses. Yes, you might get a few critical sets of eye balls rolling back into their sockets, and a few determined downers trying to kill your happy spirit or others who are just filled with evil beyond help, but do not let that discourage you. Turn away if you have to, spend less time with them if necessary, but be consistent in deed, strength and courage and your good character will be catching and a sought after model to imitate. With your improved virtuous, bright, and insightful attitude you will find that there is more to be discovered about your uplifting faith, your truer self, and those whose lives you richly and poignantly touch.
The terms “The Holidays” and “Happy Holidays” have become widely used catch phrases that have been projected and almost intravenously injected into our homes, bodies and minds to include different religious celebrations which may be part of the reason why we have a less than passionate mindset toward acknowledging and celebrating Christ’s birth. Christ’s birth has become for many a less than worthy mentionable ingredient in a melting pot of money making retail sales days that is recognized and rated by how much consumers have spent rather than on the depth and celebration of one’s faith for their future through their Lord and Savior’s birth. Come alive PeOpLE! Take Christmas back! Be bold and speak of Christ and offer words filled with blessings and faith for our future. Share thoughts like “Isn’t the work of God incredible? To think that God created and sacrificed His Son in our image and for our sake, then Jesus following through for us and unselfishly gave His life from crib to cross to provide “the way” to join us to God in Heaven. What a blessing we all have an opportunity to share in. May we live in harmony and share in God’s gift of life.”
Gripped in all the hoopla surrounded by decorating, shopping, parties, food, and exchanging presents we naively, mistakenly, or inadvertently might ignore the fact that on Christmas Day it is actually Jesus’ Birthday that we should be celebrating. Many of us fail to pay homage or honor to Him by a “religious tradition or act” outside of a Christmas Day Mass if we can get ourselves out of bed after a late eve party. Take proactive steps to put “Christ” at the center of your celebrations changing the less than noteworthy past into a new praiseworthy and profound memory and experience for you, your family and friends. Mindfully prepare ahead for a “new religious” Christmas tradition. Exchange a small religious gift, like a cross, medal, bible, nativity set, spiritual book, or join a prayer group, church spiritual class held during Advent, and/or attend a “posada” or “novena” held in your own neighborhood or at your church. Bring “Christ” back into Christmas.
Speak to everyone for they are your brothers and sisters in Christ! Don’t ignore others and limit your relationships because God would never do that to you! Enjoy all encounters whether they are a brief moment in time or a life long friendship. The simplest “hello” can make a world of difference to a lonely person. A “compliment” could draw a smile from an aching heart. A “kind gesture” could make someone’s day! Don’t be shy, instead be “bold” in the name of Jesus. Do as “He would” and others will see the life of Christ in you! Always say “yes” when you can. Enjoy the gift of versatility knowing that your choices, routine and busy schedule can be rearranged at almost any time to bring comfort, aid or shelter to another. Take the “spotlight” off of you and redirect its light to that of another and enjoy the experience of the wonderful things that will happen to your giving soul!
Let us with renewed energy in our core, discipline on our tongues, and substance in our hearts display for all to see the reverence, respect and honor of our excitement and love for God, Jesus Christ His Son and the Holy Spirit.
Start now to begin to make changes in the way you and your family spend the days that lead up to one of the holiest days of the Christian calendar year. Rest, set straight, humble your hearts, and find comfort and peace in our God during the four weeks of the Advent Season as we joyfully prepare for Jesus’ coming. Spend more quiet time in prayer and you will experience a profound maturity in the depth of your faith and spirit that always has room for growth and nurturing.
Rejoice and be glad for this is a new day and beginning! Discover who you really are as you move through your renewed life and journey in faith and grow closer to God’s church, which is “you and the community of people in your house, church, workplace, neighborhood, state, nation, and which literally extends around the world!”
Every day is a blessing! Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and thus, everyday “with JESUS”iS tHe MoSt WoNdErFuL TiMe Of ThE yEaR !
Inspired by 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.”
It’s encouraging, uplifting, inspiring, and heartwarming to see how we, the Christian Community, transform every year during the month of December. Soon after the golden brown turkey, tart cranberry relish, and spiced pumpkin pie have been consumed at the Thanksgiving dinner table the wonderful twinkling bright lights then trim our homes and neighborhoods and once a year bring to life the Christmas Season. As a family we shop, transport, and set up fancy or simply decorated fragrant pine trees that house our numerous gifts at its base and it sits prominently in our living rooms temporarily making us feel warmly connected to the cold winter and holiday season.
However, we begin to move further away from the original gift of Christmas as we stand in long lines and lose sleep over a frenzy of special shopping days, stretching ourselves and spending scarce cash to find that perfect gift for everyone on our list “tHiS yEaR”. People are of good cheer (FoR tHe MosT pArT), friends and family make time for visiting each other accepting invitations and attending holiday parties (iF tHey ArEn’T FiGhTiNg AnD iF tHeY cAn FoRgiVe OnE aNoThEr –WoUlD YoU SaY wE ArE A LittLe LeSS ThAn pErFeCt?). We enjoy the warm enticing aroma of sweet sugar and spices that reveal the familiar labors of love and traditions in the kitchen that fill our homes and workplaces year after year. We nibble and nibble and eventually right out gorge on buffet tables of rich foods and desserts and miserably within one month from over indulgence and the lack of physical activity fill in every spare inch of our jeans.
How is it that we can we fill our hearts with joy and excitement during this time of year and then completely detach ourselves and revert back to a place that is neither exhilarating nor mildly over the top pleasurable? What is it that gets turned on inside us and gives us the fearless incentive to placidly or greatly improve our less than perfect attitudes and allows us to express a sense of calmness, patience, compassion and generosity rather than our normal and inconsistent temper, judgmental eyes, and a cool and “Scrooge-like” heart? Why aren’t we participating and enjoying the incredible “gift of giving ourselves” everyday rather than reserving it only for a few short weeks that seem to begin after Thanksgiving Day and ending at the ring-in of the New Year. It’s time to say goodbye to our old limited ways of the past so that we may experience in abundance the “true meaning of Christmas” everyday in our lives!
There is something incredibly powerful and physically intangible about “hope, love and joy” for all of us that is brought to life during the weeks that precede Christmas Day. The almost in-descript feeling of cheer and good tidings is not something discussed and taught in a classroom setting as it is more an imitation of behavior that is passed down through generations of Christian families. Feelings of closeness and thoughtfulness connect us without emotional words. We have now within our power, and more than ever an obligation to our families and friends and for generations to come, to be an example of a living ambassador for Christ. We must earnestly take advantage of each new year, and better yet each day, situation, and moment to keep hope, love and joy alive in our hearts. Living in this caring state of faith, trust and anticipation our lives will naturally touch and connect us to each other and to God.
Our feelings and behavior are shaped by our “attitudes” and “mindsets”. We hear from television commercials and songs that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year! We buy into the idea of “be of good cheer” as a natural way to feel only during “the holidays”. Well here’s a novel idea for all 12 months, “be a good model and of good cheer all the days of your life.” Simple positive actions and attitudes speak louder than words or philosophies. Consistency and confidence in the name of goodness and righteousness will always win out over a self-serving way of thinking, mild and morally wrong approach, weak or negative point of view. Be steady, unswerving, unfailing, and regularly in concert with others for their benefit, and see how the world around you improves and progresses. Yes, you might get a few critical sets of eye balls rolling back into their sockets, and a few determined downers trying to kill your happy spirit or others who are just filled with evil beyond help, but do not let that discourage you. Turn away if you have to, spend less time with them if necessary, but be consistent in deed, strength and courage and your good character will be catching and a sought after model to imitate. With your improved virtuous, bright, and insightful attitude you will find that there is more to be discovered about your uplifting faith, your truer self, and those whose lives you richly and poignantly touch.
The terms “The Holidays” and “Happy Holidays” have become widely used catch phrases that have been projected and almost intravenously injected into our homes, bodies and minds to include different religious celebrations which may be part of the reason why we have a less than passionate mindset toward acknowledging and celebrating Christ’s birth. Christ’s birth has become for many a less than worthy mentionable ingredient in a melting pot of money making retail sales days that is recognized and rated by how much consumers have spent rather than on the depth and celebration of one’s faith for their future through their Lord and Savior’s birth. Come alive PeOpLE! Take Christmas back! Be bold and speak of Christ and offer words filled with blessings and faith for our future. Share thoughts like “Isn’t the work of God incredible? To think that God created and sacrificed His Son in our image and for our sake, then Jesus following through for us and unselfishly gave His life from crib to cross to provide “the way” to join us to God in Heaven. What a blessing we all have an opportunity to share in. May we live in harmony and share in God’s gift of life.”
Gripped in all the hoopla surrounded by decorating, shopping, parties, food, and exchanging presents we naively, mistakenly, or inadvertently might ignore the fact that on Christmas Day it is actually Jesus’ Birthday that we should be celebrating. Many of us fail to pay homage or honor to Him by a “religious tradition or act” outside of a Christmas Day Mass if we can get ourselves out of bed after a late eve party. Take proactive steps to put “Christ” at the center of your celebrations changing the less than noteworthy past into a new praiseworthy and profound memory and experience for you, your family and friends. Mindfully prepare ahead for a “new religious” Christmas tradition. Exchange a small religious gift, like a cross, medal, bible, nativity set, spiritual book, or join a prayer group, church spiritual class held during Advent, and/or attend a “posada” or “novena” held in your own neighborhood or at your church. Bring “Christ” back into Christmas.
Speak to everyone for they are your brothers and sisters in Christ! Don’t ignore others and limit your relationships because God would never do that to you! Enjoy all encounters whether they are a brief moment in time or a life long friendship. The simplest “hello” can make a world of difference to a lonely person. A “compliment” could draw a smile from an aching heart. A “kind gesture” could make someone’s day! Don’t be shy, instead be “bold” in the name of Jesus. Do as “He would” and others will see the life of Christ in you! Always say “yes” when you can. Enjoy the gift of versatility knowing that your choices, routine and busy schedule can be rearranged at almost any time to bring comfort, aid or shelter to another. Take the “spotlight” off of you and redirect its light to that of another and enjoy the experience of the wonderful things that will happen to your giving soul!
Let us with renewed energy in our core, discipline on our tongues, and substance in our hearts display for all to see the reverence, respect and honor of our excitement and love for God, Jesus Christ His Son and the Holy Spirit.
Start now to begin to make changes in the way you and your family spend the days that lead up to one of the holiest days of the Christian calendar year. Rest, set straight, humble your hearts, and find comfort and peace in our God during the four weeks of the Advent Season as we joyfully prepare for Jesus’ coming. Spend more quiet time in prayer and you will experience a profound maturity in the depth of your faith and spirit that always has room for growth and nurturing.
Rejoice and be glad for this is a new day and beginning! Discover who you really are as you move through your renewed life and journey in faith and grow closer to God’s church, which is “you and the community of people in your house, church, workplace, neighborhood, state, nation, and which literally extends around the world!”
Every day is a blessing! Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and thus, everyday “with JESUS”iS tHe MoSt WoNdErFuL TiMe Of ThE yEaR !
Inspired by 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.”
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Smile
Smile
Do not be afraid that you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Your opportunity is now, in this moment, to make changes that will please God. Prepare yourself for you are equipped with knowledge and know now what has been said to all through the Gospels. Act quickly and with a defined plan to truthfully educate, reform, rejuvenate, invigorate, refresh, restore, and revitalize your thoughts, attitudes and actions.
Walk only forward toward God’s light turning your back to past days of darkness. Triumph over all temptations to hold on to complaints and negativity. Take steps that elevate you and others so that you will stand confidently and unwavering in your faith against rains, floods, and winds that dare to try to knock you down or steer you down a rocky path.
You are great in God’s eyes. Show Him that you are mindful, thankful, and grateful for the daily blessings provided for you. Smile. The love of God will emerge and come to light from your being and your confidence will conquer all that dares to defeat you.
Oh, do it again. Smile :)
Matthew 7:21, 24-27
Jesus said to his disciples:“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’will enter the Kingdom of heaven,but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came,and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. And everyone who listens to these words of minebut does not act on themwill be like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the floods came,and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.”
Do not be afraid that you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Your opportunity is now, in this moment, to make changes that will please God. Prepare yourself for you are equipped with knowledge and know now what has been said to all through the Gospels. Act quickly and with a defined plan to truthfully educate, reform, rejuvenate, invigorate, refresh, restore, and revitalize your thoughts, attitudes and actions.
Walk only forward toward God’s light turning your back to past days of darkness. Triumph over all temptations to hold on to complaints and negativity. Take steps that elevate you and others so that you will stand confidently and unwavering in your faith against rains, floods, and winds that dare to try to knock you down or steer you down a rocky path.
You are great in God’s eyes. Show Him that you are mindful, thankful, and grateful for the daily blessings provided for you. Smile. The love of God will emerge and come to light from your being and your confidence will conquer all that dares to defeat you.
Oh, do it again. Smile :)
Matthew 7:21, 24-27
Jesus said to his disciples:“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’will enter the Kingdom of heaven,but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came,and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. And everyone who listens to these words of minebut does not act on themwill be like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the floods came,and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.”
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