Wormwood

I'm not surprised when it comes to music but general words are rare when waking up. I was surprised about the word wormwood and it's significance. The search brought about knowledge about the plant and it's bitterness and not too much else. One or two mentions in the bible and some about a greenish liquer. Nothing too interesting about it, pretty flowers it produces.

I got to thinking about how the world is changing and what is going on. Is there any wonder at all at how many people in this world may suffer from bitterness because of situations that are placed upon them due to job loss, illness, many other things that most of us have no clue what they go through. Yet it all can be fixed, but those who can do it are rooted so deep into selfishness that they release the very toxic effect on others known as bitterness.

This has an affect on the life giving water. What courses through us is the water of life, but it is getting polluted with bitterness from lack of care from many who are centered on their own agenda. How easily it all could change if love were the center of all that we do. When we place God in the very center of our lives and let His son guide us on the right path. Do we harbor any bitterness that we might not know of? Why the bile seems to rise up on occasion, is it possible to have it part of our lives unsuspecting. Slowly eating us up.

The New Encyclical

By now most have read the new encyclical our beloved Pope Benedict XVI has given the world, it's called Caritas In Veritate, a must read for everyone. I have only just begun to read it myself, unlike others who may have read it as soon as it appeared. I needed to be ready and with the Holy Spirit to receive the beauty of our Holy Fathers words. God is truth and this encyclical calls for truth in our lives. Thank you Pope Benedict XVI for the gift of Charity in Truth as well as the others that have been done for God and the world.

Light A Candle #2

God is always generous in giving His love. This morning upon waking those song words, light a candle to start a new dawn were once again present. The words are from a song called "Light A Candle" that is sung by Daniel ODonnell. This morning was a treasure, since lately my listening has been mostly on the albums "Signatures" by John Michael Talbot and his other one "Meditations In The Spirit."

I was thinking too about confessions and what makes a good one. Quite sometime ago, months I think it was, when I went and was told I made a good confession. That happened to me a few times when I was told that. It had me thinking about how I did those particular confessions to merit those words from the Priest at the end. And all I can think, when I was relating my sins I was forming the words as if I were speaking directly to God himself, but upon reflection I think it may also had to do with how truly sorry we are when we are relating those sins. For the truth of our sorrow to be heard by the Priest. Or was it the Priest himself, who just happened to be one in unity with our Lord? I wonder if others have also experienced the depth of confession that evokes this response from the Priest.

Anyway, I went to Mass yesterday afternoon to hear such a delightful heartfelt prayers by a Priest during Adoration prior to Mass. I think that was the highlight of my day to know of his love for the Eucharist. That is always a pleasure to see a beacon burning bright, almost like the song itself.

Scents of Fragrance

We have a delightful seminarian named Matthew that was assigned to our Parish. He did yesterdays readings at Mass. He did a beautiful job too. He is going to make a wonderful Priest too. Keep him in your prayers please.

Two Sundays in a row brought about a delightful scent as well. I don't wear any flowery perfume, yet that delightful fragrance was present at mass. It was quite strong at times. It's not a rose scented fragrance but a unique blend. Last week I wondered, but this week I was not near anyone for it to waft so strongly at moments in front of me. I thank God for those moments when His presence is known. I recalled an earlier time when so much began, I almost forgot about it, I had asked Him to allow me to smell his perfume when He is near. Now I do understand why the scent is so unusual in fragrance. Just like the time I smelled sweet incense during the mass on the Epiphany of our Lord.

I am extremely grateful for this special gift of love. So many could also have this if only they give Him their all and absolute love to Him, instead of snide comments that are made when they do not understand the gift of God's presence. I've found people will speak openly of New Age Occultism and what they perceive, but scoff at the truth of God. There should never be any jealousy toward another, irregardless of what goes on in anyone's life. God is all about love. There were times when I too lacked love for neighbor and made comments out of a lack of understanding, in this regard I know so well how truthful this is. When God is present in one's life it is easy to understand how much the Word of God is above all about love in the highest degree. Most of all it is dealings with coworkers that bring this writing about often their lack of understanding in light of another's faith. Good people anyway.

Eyes Of Faith

Ever try getting over a hurdle that seems huge. The thought of becoming a religious never leaves me, but my obstacle is heart disease and diabetes. Two factors that will stop the process no matter what. I had notions of creating a religious order in the beginning and turning my parents home into a convent of sorts. It was an idea that had possibilities. Father Plasse had even mentioned a sort of cloister here and I was all for it. I would take the vows in a heartbeat, my love for God is that great. More than anything if it be God's will for me and His desire that this comes about, then by His grace it will flourish and come to reality. So much has taken place here for myself by God as well as for my parents. My mom was led here for a reason, a magnificent story in itself as well.

The Eucharist has been a special part in it all as well. The last two times I read at mass have been unique ones. Especially at communion when just before Monsignor Gosselin distributes the host, my eyes are closed and reflecting the awaiting moment when I too can partake. But somehow I can hear all that is going on but fail to notice when he approaches. I end up in a state of shock drawn out of the very depths when he begins to say The Body of Christ. I didn't think anything of it the first time it happened. But this time it happened again and when I closed my eyes awaiting the Blood of Christ, it also happened again but the depths were far deeper. Odd to be able to hear and know when one should open their eyes as the person approaches, yet I could not as I was so immersed.

There a few times I recall that during the Eucharitic prayers the same happened, that after they were said and it was time to stand, I would still be kneeling and completely oblivious. I never knew how treasured those moments are until realizing how close at those moments one is with our loving God. I remember those few times, prior to what I saw and also after. I thought it was odd to have happened and now I rejoice for the love of God for what He has done for me. I pray many will come this close to God to know of the depths of His love.

A Work In Progress

After receiving emails with beautiful PowerPoint slide shows, I finally learned how to put one together. It's a work in progress with the pictures of the Eucharist, so far it's in the early stages. I just put some of the pictures and now it's placing them in chronological order. I did get to time them, there is no writing nor music yet. I didn't realize how much work and time it takes to put it all together. But the end result will be magnificent.

It's been a day of letting go too, I sent two pictures off to two people who belong to the Dominican chapter I belong to. They requested the one they wanted, unfortunately, I needed to obtain some ink in order to print them up. Off they went today to bring, hopefully, comfort and joy to their hearts. I placed one on the header of this blog and my other one, two different pictures of the Eucharist that God has given to me. I'm beginning to think it is almost time to show them. I know showing them was hard at the beginning, and time allowed me to learn as well as grow. A wonderful progress for sure.



The small garden that I planted is coming along nicely but the weeding is slow going. One would think they have a life of their own and want to grow just as much. There are some pole beans as well as bush beans, zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, green peppers, butternut squash, acorn squash and turnip. A very small garden with only a few of each. I think the most is two rows of string beans. All the rain we had enabled the seeds to sprout and flourish, climbing the pole already. God is so good.

I was surprised by a phone call today from Angel. I hadn't spoke to him since over a year ago. It was odd, since Saturday evening I had recently mentioned him in a conversation with Father Plasse about a mountain we had gone to one day. Amazing how God brings people into our lives. He said the most amazing thing to me, that I was a light that shone bright and I had touched his life. I'm just thankful that God touched mine so I could touch others. It's all for Him and through Him.

Degrees of Death

These last few days have brought news in varying ways. The loss of Ed McMahon was first, then Farah Fawcett and finally Michael Jackson. Each had died in different ways! Each of them had crosses in life as well. Farah suffered bodily and kept her faith. She received the Sacrament of Extreme Unction, known today as the Anointing of the Sick or Last Rites. She was prepared where many are not. As in the case of Michael Jackson and how swiftly life ends.

It's sad to come to understand how tenuous life is. We mourn the loss of people we do not know personally. Yet fail to mourn the loss of unborn children when it is taken from the womb as if their existence was not a gift. How many that have died who could have become a parent, a sister, brother a friend. God did not sanction that there should be only so many people to live on this planet and the rest must be rid of. He is the maker of life. Life of the living and those who go on to eternal life after death.

The life we live and how we live it will determine the end result, the degrees of death. When we die, is it life we seek or is it death?

My Beloved

We hear songs but often fail to notice the beauty of the song and the words that are imparted or even notice how it moves the soul. Yet, there are moments some songs stir the spirit within to know the beauty of how much God gives us. This song, done beautifully by John Michael Talbot, has done just that, stirred the soul when these words are sung about. My spirit exalts in God my savior, for he has looked with mercy on my lowliness. How deeply these words touch my heart. Our blessed Mother first spoke these words long ago when she was chosen by God to be the Mother of Jesus. None can compare to what God has done for her. With understanding in how truly magnificent God works, my soul too rejoices in these words when I hear them. A sinner such as I, can rejoice in God my savior for he looked upon this lowly servant and gave so much of Himself.

My dearest blessed Mother, I honor you for allowing me to be part of your sons life. I honor God my father for chosing me to be his. A bride of his heart. I have chosen Him above all else in the world. I yearn for him always, my thoughts are on Him constantly. There is no rest nor respite for the constant longing my soul endures. Those precious moments when absolute joy surrounds my heart, I know that is when he kisses my soul with his love. It is then that I too who exalts in God my savior.

A Beginning

Today starts the beginning of the Year for Priests. What fitting way to begin with a beautiful letter from our Beloved Pope Benedict XVI entitled, "The Priesthood Is the Love of the Heart of Jesus". The link has the full text of the letter to the priests. Today is also the Solemnity of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.


It is with great hope that these shepherds of the Church who follow Christ will come to ever greater holiness in faith for the love of God our Father who called them by name. May our prayers bring to life and a greater harvest to our Fathers Kingdom.

Corpus Christi

What a beautiful turnout we had yesterday for the Corpus Christi Procession for Vocations. It was held this year in my town of Ludlow, MA. Since the day started out with rain, none of us were certain of the outcome. Yet, God answered those prayers to stop the rain as a beautiful sign of His Love. There is no doubt in my mind that he does answer them. After all we ended up with possibly 600 people walking the procession. The Churches were filled to overflowing. I'm so proud of the people who bore witness to their faith by following Jesus in the walk to bring future vocations. It was announced to us that we now have 28 seminarians since the dedication of the Chapel to Vocations. God is so Good!!!

It seems that God has truly been anwering those prayers. I remember from the beginning praying to restore the life of the Church, to cleanse it, to bring holy priest. It is with hope that this is coming about. It's not just my prayers but those of the faithful as well. Amazingly, finding out that following God is what truly makes a heart happy, it's great. Having detoured enough times in my life while following God, has shown me the depth of His love. Believe me, I think I've tried God's patience more than anyone. He is my happiness, my joy and my life. I've found throughout the years when people abandon you, God doesn't. Nor does he persecute us when we err and don't measure up. He does allow us freedom to do our own will, but he loves when we do His will above our own. It's that simple. That's when we find out that things truly do work out for the best then.

Blessings

It's always a pleasure to know another person who experiences the graces from God. I had a conversation last night with a woman who has also seen Jesus' face in the Eucharist. Both of us related our own experiences of the gifts of God. What a blessing and a consolation as well!

Lately I have been experiencing some chest pains that has signaled a need for rest. After having gone through so much already in my life I have learned to go off to that alone place to bring healing and balance back to a body that encounters much stress on a daily basis. What better place to go than to the healer himself, Jesus the life of us all. He is a mountain of mountains, a refuge. When I met a man on Monday evening at our prayer Cenacle and found out his illness and the peace he has, when at a young age, he too, has been given a cross to carry. I knew I needed to go to the top of the mountain and pray, not for myself but for others who show courage and faith among lifes uncertainties. This young man had to stop working because he has MS. He has a wife and a child to care for as well. That night, even though I have been having health issues, it brought home more clearly the need to care for myself. I learned one thing about how precious it all is, but many will not understand how important it is or how truly important faith and love of God is either. For once in my life I have come to learn to also care about me as much as I have placed others care before my own. A blessing for sure even if it comes this late in life.

The lady I also spoke with has a cross of her own as well. God has given her strength to get through the obstacles as much as he has with the young man.

Pilgrimage

What a blessing today was! It not only was delightful weather wise, the whole day was grace filled. A pilgrimage with many of my Dominican brothers and sisters as well as many of my Parish family to Lourdes in Litchfield, Connecticut. A bus trip that brought a group of people together on a journey of faith. This trip saw some changes at the Shrine that show much promise of future visits by more pilgrims.

The Mass was delightful as well as the hour of Adoration we shared before departing back home. God's presence never ceases to amaze me. When subtle changes began happening, I knew more than ever how much he is present during the hour of Adoration. A visual stretch, enough to know how favored this day was. That was the end of the day before parting.

Yet the beginning also had significance, the touch was present and given to another as part of God's love at the end of Mass. I do know from the words spoken during the homily as well, how truly possible it is to live when one has seen. Not a shake up but a confirmation of His truth that is deep within my heart.

The Possiblility

I was talking to my sister on the phone a couple nights ago about many things. The focus was about people that come into our lives. I was talking to her about my friend who seems to want to be part of my life again. She had cautioned me as well, wondering about his motives. That conversation was needed in many ways.

For once I was able to voice so much of what has gone on regarding what I have saw and known. Debbie had mentioned to me how others would love to have known and saw what I have. A gift that is rare and beautiful. But a very lonely gift, that sets a person apart from others. I would love more than anything that people could experience the gift of God's love. To know the truth and come ever closer to Him. Out of this conversation with my sister, the depths of my heart poured out, that to follow God fully means giving up any relationship to another person. To live a life alone, to never be touched or held close. Or to have someone care for you as age comes closer.

I love God with all my heart and knowing what sacrifice is to be made, that my life is not my own, but God's, didn't make it any easier to swallow. There are times I want to go off and forget all that he did and just live a normal life. But I can't because He is so deep within my heart, my mind and my soul. Like at Mass when words stand out and bring a smile to my face, I know then His truth. Unity throughout the world, now that would be something.

What do you believe?

Over the weekend it seems someone had hit the or attempted to uproot the mailbox. I had found it and the paper one lying on the ground. I temporarily placed it back, but found it wasn't very secure. So yesterday I was about to re-dig the hole. To my delight my neighbor across the street was driving by. He stopped and we talked, then he parked and helped me out, we took turns digging. Good thing he was there too, since the base holding the pipe has a big blob of cement. With both of us working together maneuvering the mailbox into position we managed to secure it in the hole.

He certainly was heaven sent at a time when I needed help. My brother had also stopped over the other day after work to mend an area by the roof. More or less to replace shingles. He found more problems than needed. Now my parents need a new roof. We have a semi flat roof that periodically needs cool sealing to seal the metal roofing. Underneath it, in places have begun to deteriorate. Please say a prayer along with me for my mom and dad, because it is a burden that is too much for them at this time.

God does have a way of bringing people together to help each other out and he has a way of answering prayers that when we understand him we will see those prayers answered. It's all in how we ask him in the first place. Even my neighbor, he believes, yet he doesn't. It's due to what seems to be happening in the world that causes his disbelief. One of his questions was about prayer and why God doesn't answer them about all that is happening. People believe he exists but often wonder why he lets the world go to such dire straights. Even if I showed him the pictures of the Eucharist and God's visage on them, that alone would not convert his heart to belief. I think many in this world seek a miracle of conversion. A complete turnaround in the mess the world has become.

Life and Death

There was a person in my town who has been on my thoughts since the first time I saw him. I've seen this young man twice in passing on my way to work or on my way home. His visage is etched into my thoughts due to the odd resemblance I saw in him with Jesus. His hair is long, yet his face is heavily lined as if he is aged beyond time. I have soon found out that this man is only 52 years old. I don't know this man personally, but from that very first time I saw him, he would occasionally come to mind.

I don't know the reason for it and now even as I write this, his face comes to mind. Why? For what purpose other than prayer. Yesterday on my way to Mass, there were many cars at a small convenience store that I stop at. Except it had nothing to do with the store. This young man lived in one of the apartments. As the day progressed I soon found out that this same man who kept coming to mind had been found in the basement, dead. He had hung himself. Now I wonder, was there something I could have done that I failed to do. Such as speak to this man when twice our paths crossed. Did I fail to reach out and extend the love of Christ to another without realizing it. Did I fail to smile at him, yet on recall I did smile, yet I was silent. Like so many others when we often walk by and don't acknowledge. I was able to offer his death in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Yet it was while he was living those prayers were needed more so, and here too, how often did I pray for him when he came to thought. It's a novel idea that has come to light.

It's called intercessory prayer, when our thoughts give inklings of how to pray and when it is for another soul. Upon this reflection of the brief time from the first encounter of this man to the day he died, I have come to the conclusion that each time he came to thought was a moment where I could and should have said a prayer for him. I wonder if anyone does this when out of the blue our thoughts are of someone specific, do we mentally pray for them then or just think that this person is thinking of us. Is it possible it is exactly those moments when we need to say a prayer for them to help them on their journey through life.

Lifes Lessons

I have much thinking to do, yet, what purpose would that thinking help. It seems that people come into our lives for reasons beyond our comprehension. Either to make peace or to aid in their growth. For whatever reason it may be prayer should be a constant. My ex-boyfriend has been in contact with me and I don't know why when he was adamant on never seeing me again. I've forgiven him and found myself learning to trust. But I am baffled as to why he constantly mentions ending it all, his life that is. Am I to be strong for him too and pick him up off the proverbial floor and nurture him when he is too weak to care for himself to continue in this life.

What causes so many in this world to seek the darkness of oblivion? We are all placed upon this earth for a reason, many to help each other grow. Yet, we fail this daily when we turn our backs on those in need. Refusing to listen or to care. Moments like this remind me of how much God loves us and never gives up on us when we turn away. He always places people in our lives to bring love, to nuture the wounds that life causes. It's up to us to be peacemakers and love our neighbor as Jesus commanded. Can I do no less when someone reaches out to me when they hurt.

Just Some Ramblings

I went to my nieces Wedding on Saturday and I still haven't looked at the pictures I took. When one is out of practice and out of shape, the body can hurt when it goes into overdrive. Such as in overabundance of dancing. I think it took several days before the aches subsided. So now it's time to look at what those moments of non frenzy produced.

One thing about this lesson is to keep our bodies toned and in shape. Like faith, hope and love it too needs to be kept in shape as much as our bodies and that of our environment. My Spiritual Director gave me homework again. Brings about a greater discernment about life and it's path.

More thoughts

There was a moment yesterday where a memory came through. A moment where the need to touch, such as at communion time and at the end of the mass. To physically touch another to know the depths of the love that is within the heart. It was like a flashback to another time a few years ago but at another location where that touch was the first physical one.

Why was that moment ever so clear in my mind, I don't know. The longing of the heart to also know of the need to touch as well as to love from the heart. The union of heart, mind and soul. The knowledge is astounding in it's clarity.

Moments of Reflection

Every now and then, there is a need to go off to a place, a place that often brings peace to the soul. My weekend was spent in contemplation and reflection. Not many prize this in their life or value what it does for the soul. So on Tuesday which is my Saturday I spent long hours away from home contemplating my lifes direction in the spiritual sense. On Wednesday, my Sunday was spent reflecting the message of the Gospel.

It turned out to be a very beautiful day where silence and harmony filled the air. The noon Mass was filled with wonder and grace. My heart was filled with consolation, knowing how much there is love and need deep within my soul. A song began in the depths, but to recall the words now, are lost.

I knew in my mind and my heart how much I need you, dear God. In the same way I knew of his love for me. Moments that I wasn't sure could be possible and yet they are. How truly possible it can be to know how much we are needed and loved by God and so much more. If I am wrong I'm certain I would be corrected on it. It was a weekend of awe and wonder, where love and need came shinning through to touch my heart.

The Walk

Undertaking homework and attempting to achieve weight loss can be trying at times. So I have been keeping a food journal to find where I go wrong in the eating department. And also keeping up with my walking. I found after visiting the Chapel walking with renewed vigor after a long day at work. Those moments to reflect on as I walk.

One thing about doing the walk for exercise, it's also taking a different route each time, to encounter new sights. By doing so, it removes the type of routine that can often become boring and mundane. Something that tends to stop people from continuing on the journey. Possibly the same can be said of faith. We become too accustomed to routine and tire of the never endless sameness. I found that while walking, even though I change the route to bring about some ups and downs via a hill, and new sights the same is with faith. The ups and downs, the joys and the sadness as part of faith. The sadness of the Cross and the Joy of the Resurrection. Even though our journey in faith seems a bit of a routine, it's how we tend to look at the way we do those routines that we find the journey lively. How we open our hearts to the love of God enables us to take what is routine and make it so much more.

Prayer of St. Francis

A delightful prayer that reminds us daily to live in peace

Words with meaning.

Now those words I would say are accurate.

The Holy Father noted the example of Autpert, who emphasized that "every theological search for truth relies on love," and prayed to God, "When you are scrutinized intellectually by us, you're not discovered as you truly are; it's only when you are loved that we reach you."

Benedict XVI continued: "Autpert understood that with mere theological research God can not be known as he really is. Only love can reach him. Let us listen to this message and ask the Lord to help us live the mystery of the Church today, in this our time."

Make a Change

It was a glorious day yesterday for the Orthodox Easter celebrations as well as those who follow the Divine Mercy Sunday. The sun was absolutely beautiful. Spending time with Chapter members as we too celebrated this special Sunday. Amazingly I found out why certain things have a way of happening. People no matter how religious they are, love to put their noses where it doesn't belong. Understanding why good things can happen and particularly when the not so good happens is usually by the hand of others.

In this world we create much of what causes discord among our peers. In the schools with kids, particularly it's a growing phenomena. They follow by example and that doesn't bode well when it's those they look up to that create discord. Children will lie because it's what they see and hear. They will steal because they see it done. They follow the leader basically. If mom and dad are loose in morals so too are they. And the list can go on, on why the children of this day and age are drug addicts and alcoholics. That is not just for the poor children either, it's mostly those who have money that find the children in worst shape as well. Will it ever get better? Good question. Not unless we change radically. And that won't happen unless those in the position of power begin the change and set the correct examples to live by.

A Day In A Life

One thing I have been discovering about myself lately, my life is really about God. How is it possible to think about HIM constantly and go about daily life? Yet, that is what I do. If there were topics to talk about, the main one would be about the love I have for God. Nothing else seems to matter. Not family or friends but what I do each day to give back to God all that he has done for me.

Does life make sense when every bit of it is done for the very one who created it, oh but it does, in a magnificent way. All my life I have sought to fit in, without realizing there wasn't any need, since the most important one that I needed to fit in with has always been there. Now I know why at times I felt like I didn't belong to those of the world. My sights have always been on God and heaven. I never realized the true extent of this desire until I tried to fit in with my family. Life has a way at times to bring clarity in our lives, it's up to us at those moments to understand and let God do what he does best and that is love us with all HIS heart.

Happy Easter

Alleluia Jesus is Risen

The Fifth Commandment

It seems that promoting killing as a way to end suffering is making itself known, yet it is against God's Commandments. The conscience is truly suffering in the world. According to this article
Dignitas Founder Planning Assisted Suicide of Healthy Woman at Swiss Clinic euthanasia is making headway and that is the greatest sin ever committed against God.

ARTICLE 5 from the Catechism of the Catholic Church
THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT


You shall not kill.54
You have heard that it was said to the men of old, "You shall not kill: and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment." But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment.55

2258 "Human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves the creative action of God and it remains for ever in a special relationship with the Creator, who is its sole end. God alone is the Lord of life from its beginning until its end: no one can under any circumstance claim for himself the right directly to destroy an innocent human being."56

I. RESPECT FOR HUMAN LIFE

The witness of sacred history

2259 In the account of Abel's murder by his brother Cain,57 Scripture reveals the presence of anger and envy in man, consequences of original sin, from the beginning of human history. Man has become the enemy of his fellow man. God declares the wickedness of this fratricide: "What have you done? The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground. And now you are cursed from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand."58

2260 The covenant between God and mankind is interwoven with reminders of God's gift of human life and man's murderous violence:


For your lifeblood I will surely require a reckoning. . . . Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for God made man in his own image.59
The Old Testament always considered blood a sacred sign of life.60 This teaching remains necessary for all time.

2261 Scripture specifies the prohibition contained in the fifth commandment: "Do not slay the innocent and the righteous."61 The deliberate murder of an innocent person is gravely contrary to the dignity of the human being, to the golden rule, and to the holiness of the Creator. The law forbidding it is universally valid: it obliges each and everyone, always and everywhere.

2262 In the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord recalls the commandment, "You shall not kill,"62 and adds to it the proscription of anger, hatred, and vengeance. Going further, Christ asks his disciples to turn the other cheek, to love their enemies.63 He did not defend himself and told Peter to leave his sword in its sheath.64

Will versus Will

One thing I love about Lent, it's the time we take to prepare ourselves for the end result, that of Easter when our Lord has Risen. It's taking moments out of each day to fine tune our sacrifices and thanksgivings. Last night we had a Lectors meeting as well as scripture sharing, for me these are semi new. The Lectors meeting brought to light how to dress and how to do so much more. It addressed issues that I would not have thought of. So in a wonderful way it brought to light an importance on morality of how we dress.

So many seem to take this for granted and dress as if there is no importance at all. It's not a fashion show nor a playground but a respectable moment where we honor our Eucharistic Lord. Even as participants sitting in the pews many come dressed in attire that is quite unacceptable. Anyway, last night was about guidelines to follow. Our Church has many of these, but often we fail to follow them. From this I discovered how much we have gotten away from the respect we show our Lord. Amazingly even dressing for weddings has become outrageous. From the bride's gown to those who attend have become more provocative through time. In this I can say I am a moral prude when it comes to dressing with respect to self.

I stopped at a place called Mary's Farm yesterday. It is taking shape to be a nice place for reflection. I spoke with Brother Bob and he gave me so much in the way it all came about and how it's all taking shape. We even had a moment to speak on the Eucharist and what I saw. I did show him the beautiful picture in my camera's memory. He did say something about how special I am for having seen, and I know it is. Yet there are many times that there seems to be more trials than pleasantries. Often I feel as if I fail God more than anyone. Yet deep in my heart I am sorry for much of what is said and done, even those of thought. A constant struggle to keep on the narrow path. Lent for me has brought a greater awareness of the areas where I see needed improvement. Learning to take steps to bring about correction in my daily living to bring myself closer to Jesus and His Father.

Many a time I have found why people don't want to walk this path, because it means following the will of God and not our own. It means giving up our will and letting go and letting God be the driver. In a world that promotes self, this is the hardest of all for a people of faith to be true followers of God. For the longest time throughout history we have placed our free wills before God's will. Is it any wonder the world has turned out so deep in it own sin.

Giving

Parish Retreats have a way of helping the children of God stay focused during Lent. This will be the last day of ours. Yesterday I went to LaSalette and spent a peaceful quiet time there. What I enjoyed the most was slowly going around the Rosary Pond and reflecting and praying the stations there. Mainly the ones of the Sorrowful Mysteries.

A week of giving and a week of reflecting. Giving away to someone less fortunate, when a person has gone through this themselves, giving what little you have for another. Like the scripture where the woman gives her only income while the rest give meagerly in their abundance. I too saw this as well among those who I pray with. It's one thing to organize and gather for the needy, but when there is abundance and not offer the extra what good then is the deed.

Why is it that there are more poor than should be. The answer is because we all hoard and fail to do what is right. So much excess that people in our own towns and cities could benefit, but many Christians fail big time in letting go and giving up the extras.

Budding Into Life

This lovely tree is placed outside the windows at work,so one day I took a picture of it. It has pretty much looked this way all winter long, with what looks like buds on the tips of the branches. Poised as if awaiting the arrival of spring. But this is proof that God's Word is truth as it is said in: Luke 21:29-35, And he spoke to them in a similitude. See the fig tree, and all the trees: 30 When they now shoot forth their fruit, you know that summer is nigh;
31 So you also, when you shall see these things come to pass, know that the kingdom of God is at hand. 32 Amen, I say to you, this generation shall not pass away, till all things be fulfilled. 33 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 34 And take heed to yourselves, lest perhaps your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly. 35 For as a snare shall it come upon all that sit upon the face of the whole earth.

How often does the Word of God speak loudly to a heart, yet these words touched mine in the very depth. The Truth sets us free doesn't it, and the the Truth is Jesus and he paid the price to free us. I know my bondage and he set me free of it by giving me His Love. A new springtime was born in my heart gazing and pondering the tree with perpetual buds. Moments in time to reflect upon the growth of faith as it blossoms anew, born by love and fed by the waters of life.

Water of Life

On Wednesday Sister Therese had given the album back and that night began a sharing of God's gift to me, when I shared that album with the others there too. So yesterday when I saw my spiritual director I had shown her my pictures of the Eucharist and the images of God that were captured when they were taken. A sharing of the story of when it began and somethings that I never told another soul.

I have kept quiet and a very low profile in my personal life about this. I don't show those pictures or relate the story too often. Most of the sharing of it has been on here where I have kept an account of some the moments that have graced my life. More than anything, that visit yesterday helped me to see how much I was keeping the flame burning low and not bright and visible at all. She did mention the part of the lamps with the oil. But as I began to write this, I began to see how much I was placing the basket over the candle light, almost obliterating it.

Who am I to hide the light of God's love from those who are thirsty for the life giving water. A gift of His love and I was holding it close to my heart, fearing that it would be taken away from me, when it is all I have. I have been hard on myself most of my life, and in this too I have been even harder. Opening yourself up and letting the light of God's love shine doesn't always have pleasant moments. And that's par for the course. Being a follower of God does not always have easy moments.



When I was upstairs this morning and while taking care of a few things, I overheard on the television a conversation about the military and how during a particularly bad time, how they must have been ashamed of their actions. Even in this regard when we think about it we criticize so much and many speak out about it. The same can be said about the few rotten apples in the Church as well. But many organizations do not get persecuted as much as the Catholic Church does for it's actions. Amazing isn't it when thinking about this how true it is. God gets persecuted most of all and yet he loves us constantly and tries to show us. I know he shows me numerous times, but like everyone else, I kept quiet about his love too.

Skybird

Jonathan Livingston Seagull - Skybird


Skybird
make your sail
and every heart will know
of the tale
(And head for the farthest shore!)
Skybird
make your tune
for none may sing it
just as you do
(And let your song be heard!)
Look at the way I glide
caught on the wind's lazy tide
sweetly how it sings
rally each heart at the sight
of your silver wings
Skybird, skybird
Nightbird
find your way
for none may know it
just as you may
(Seek out your harbor of light!)
(Let your song be heard!)
(Rally each heart to the sign of your silver wings!)
...Skybird...

Making a Difference

L=letting God in
E=everyday
N=not nearly as often as
T=time would allow.

It's taking those moments of Penance and Reconciliation to not only cleanse but restore the living waters of God's love.

Sisters

My sister came over last night! It was quite nice to play cards and compare notes on menopause. She went through a little bit of it after she had a hysterectomy and shes just a year younger than I am. Debbie brought over some of the pictures of my great nephew, what a little cutie he is too. It was quite a wonderful evening.

I get to see my Spiritual Director pretty soon. Time goes by so fast already. I was debating on a few things lately and now I will be able to take the time to prepare what I need to put together. Since I have let Sister Therese see the pictures and she has the album, I need to put together another one. Anyway the next few days are going to be ones filled with awe and wonder.

I found out yesterday evening at work that the 2nd shift supervisor is no longer with us, but that was said before, so gossip is something I try to not indulge in. It causes much harm and mistrust. I think my ideals are too high sometimes and maybe I need to change how I think. I can't change the world but I can change me to follow God better.

Love of Neighbor

It seems to be par for the course to get an end of the winter season with a cold. On top of the extreme heat used at work, then a drop in temperature has now had the effect of a sore throat along with being ill. The temperature changes happened several days ago and the truth of why they did it is beyond me. But if I am getting sick from it so will others as well.

It makes me wonder why people go to extremes like this in the work force to create their own discomfort as well as others. What mentality drives them to do this? More like childish behavior. Excuses don't cut it either when it's easy to change the temperature and they say they don't know why it's so hot in there in the first place. What lesson is there to be learned in this regard? How to forgive the actions of others and love them inspite of the evilness of their actions. I'm not perfect myself because I react just like the rest of them. But when I asked one time to have the heat lowered I got refused by the supervisor and told she didn't know how. Yet on another day she did it for someone else. Yet I still love them and accept the fact that they are ill in mind while I am ill physically. Venting and forgiving.

Spring Cleaning

Sometimes having the brilliant idea of placing a blog on private to enable a change, but plans don't always work out that way. Then the other is changing the template and not being able to post or access it unless its via another route. I wanted to make a change and do a voila, my did that come out good thing. I'm laughing at myself and those moot points of I want to do it differently. Upon reflection the same could be said about Lent and what we plan to do with it.

Like attempting to make a change or make a fashion statement Lent is a time to do a little of both. Like a blog template it's an outward appearance mainly, but the interior of it is faith filled. I wanted to change the outer appearance for the sake of being more appealing. Beauty attracts the eye for many people but fail to notice what's within. Sort of like true love, only in that case it's what is within that attracts, that is the very heart that I speak of.

So Lent is a springtime for cleaning and for renewing the love that is within. Maybe by using the blog as an example when shutting off for public view and returning with a new look would have been quite an example in itself. But the true beauty is not in the look but what is truly within that makes it special in its own way. What on earth does this have to do with Lent anyway? Judging by looks and not seeing within, there are many other forms of examples that can be used to aid in Lenten sacrifices. I used this one because we all use the eye to see with and this is what seems to be one way of bringing into focus another way to see God in life and in the season of Lent, how we judge by senses and the appearance of what we see. So now that we have gone and received our ashes today, I wonder how many wiped them off as soon as they got home or on their way to work.

When I went to the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge today, I saw people who had ashes on their foreheads during Adoration and that was before their Mass. Now that was nice to see. I went there to start my Lent off with Reconciliation and Penance in mind. I went to cleanse the interior of any smudges of dirt that mar the beauty that shines through to the exterior. My spring cleaning began with washing the windows of my soul.

Sing A New Song

No words can ever express how grateful I am for such a delight this morning. God is so good.


Sing A New Song


Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let your song be sung from mountains high.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Singing alleluia.

Yahweh's people dance for joy.
Oh come before the Lord.
And play for him on glad tambourines,
And let your trumpet sound.

Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let your song be sung from mountains high.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Singing alleluia.

Rise oh children from your sleep.
Your Savior now has come.
He has turned your sorrow to joy,
And filled your soul with song.

Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let your song be sung from mountains high.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Singing alleluia.

My Thoughts

Making the rounds continued yesterday when I spent wonderful time in the Chapel at St. Josephs Abbey. Those quiet moments, like a silent retreat often bring the greatest reward. When daily pressures of life often zap the life out of you, those quiet times are needed to restore balance.

Last night we had Lectio Divina as part of the Scripture sharing. One should leave those gatherings enlightened by the Word of God, yet I found discouragement upon leaving. As if nothing was accomplished or gained. The focus was mainly upon three people who imputed their thoughts the whole time. When I was about to speak I was cut off and not allowed to continue. I wonder if I do this to God too when he attempts to impart his love. Do I cut him off and seek my own way.

No matter what God has imparted to me by way of what I see, I don't claim to be nothing more than his servant. I never once thought I was worthy to receive any special grace, yet numerous times I was given those moments as a his way to say I love you when no one else does. And I continue to love them as well even when I am treated as if I was not there when I sit among them.

I have to wonder, if I too also treat Jesus and God as if they too are not present. What a concept to think about!! Do I realy love God when I treat my neighbor as if they are beneath my feet. Am I showing the evilness in my heart then? But then again these are my thoughts and often others love to point out my errors, so then too I must be evil as well, since I am first of all a sinner. Hence there is nothing Holy about me, nothing pure, nor pleasant. And this is all because of an evening that brought about negativity rather than unite and create harmony among God's children. I am not ashamed to love God, but it seems others are ashamed to know me.

Making the Rounds

Father Eugene Plasse was over for supper on Monday evening. The conversation about retreats came about. He mentioned the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary paying a visit and introducing myself to the Provencial. So yesterday that is where I went. I set out to meet the Provencial and met instead Sister Sylvia L. who brought me to the Chapel and showed me the infirmary. The place is absolutely beautiful and very peaceful. The link to the Sisters website is with the picture when you click on it.

After I left there I saw this other place just next door to them. So I visisted St Basil Seminaries books shop, where of all places I never thought to have seen, Muriel. I met her for the first time at a retreat I went to at LaSalette. She helps out with Father Pats ministry.

She handed me this flyer for an up coming event. So if anyone reading this is in the area, take the opportunity to go to one of Father Pat's Concerts or Healing Mass, you will never be disappointed. No matter how old you are, young or old or vice versa the minister, when God chooses to use a person to bring healing you'll be amazed when you let God touch you through them. It was through this ministry that I truly began to understand God's hand in my life.

Fasting

I wonder if anyone looks forward to Lent or if it's a time of trepidation. Sometimes we discover people fast out of ritual habit. But is the fasting done with the pure intention of cleansing what keeps us away from God. No matter where we are in life there is something we don't often see when we are about to begin a season of preparation. Do we look inside ourselves to see the area that needs mending. What is it we do too much of? That fasting from would reap greater peace of mind and heart. When reflecting upon areas of our daily life, the things we do but fail to notice out of habit would be something we could begin with. Lent is a time of cleansing, like spring cleaning a home is. Our body and soul are the home we are readying and cleaning. The cleaner it is the better welcome our Lord will have. Something to think about. Maybe it's all been said and done before, it never hurts to find greater depth in how we fast for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Light A Candle

This morning the words highlighted in red were playing over and over upon waking up. The CD I have of Daniel ODonnel doesn't have this song on it, yet I recognized the singer, I haven't listened to any of his songs in a while. Last night we started to do Lectio Divina during Scripture Sharing. What an evening of reflection! I gave Sister Therese my photo album of the Eucharist to look through last night. That's the second time that album has been given out for a period of time. It's always been kept with me. It's amazing how God's Word is. People don't realize how alive the Bible is in their lives unless they begin to see with new eyes the love God has for them. Like this song that I awoke to, how amazing God is when we place ourselves in His hands.

LIGHT A CANDLE

Just one little candle
Can shine through the night
A symbol of faith
A flame that keeps burning
That never stops turning
The darkness away

Light a candle
To start a new dawn
Let it be like a prayer
And together we’ll shine
In a moment of time
We can share
Light a candle
To start a new dawn

Life is for giving
For those who are living
In love’s ray of light
And life is for caring
So never stop sharing
Your beacon so bright

Chorus

Bridge

We can unite the world from one tiny spark
Its better to light a candle
Than curse in the dark

Chorus

Light a candle
To start a new dawn
Light a candle
To start a new dawn

Light a candle
Light a candle

Warmth

Not much has been going on besides work the past few days. I haven't even had the urge or inkling to write. Like a dry spell. Mostly it's been the time of resting in the palm of God's hand. Just listening and being with Him.

The last few days actually have been extraordinary ones. On Saturday something happened to me at work that caused me to become extremely cold. I am so proud of the people I work with for their concern and how quickly they came to take care of me in a moment of distress. I was scared myself of what happened, it was the weirdest thing to be that cold in a room that was above 75 degrees in temperature and to be wrapped up in a shawl to boot. It was an eye opener for sure. Anyway, I am grateful that Karin rubbed warmth when I felt like a frozen popsicle, that Hildy brought tea and Mary gave me her shawl.

These women have done what Jesus asks of each of us. To care, to feed, to cloth those in need. They don't realize as I do what they did. How often in life do we do this for the least of our brothers we do it for Jesus. What they did for me on Saturday, no one else did when I was at my lowest. I never found it anywhere not even in my Parish community. Odd that we are Catholics and or Christians yet it never was seen .

Time

I had my first visit with my Spiritual Director yesterday, it was postponed due to last weeks snow storm. It was quite an hour of pleasant rapport. I look forward to the coming journey with her. This is one time that I actually felt comfortable relating what I have experienced with the Eucharist and also with music. In that she too has had the gift of song come to her. A blessing in that regard. I don't feel so alone with that now. There is someone who also has had the grace of experiencing this and can relate to it. A big difference for sure, especially when those of the faith have not experienced it.

On that note the same can go for those who never experienced upheaval and loss. How do they know how possible it is for God to rectify and turn life around like he did with Job. We had a discussion last night on that. There is always someone in the faith who will say something about helping yourself out. But in Job's case and the case of many who have literally suffered and attempted to do so and not achieved any liberation until by Divine Providence, they will never understand. No matter how long they study the Bible or have been in the faith will they see any truth. God has a purpose in each of our lives, it's placing our will and trust in Him that helps us to see clearly His way in all things.

Jesus

Moments occur in our lives to bring about a better understanding of God's graces. At least for me this is so. Prayers were answered that brought about a reunion of sorts. A moment in time that shined God's love for me. To help a friend in need of solace. I was this persons sounding board, an ear when no one else was there to listen. The last few days with music being closer than ever brought to the forefront his message mostly about listening. Listening with the ears of the heart.

We listen to people on a daily basis and often take for granted this very gift to hear. But it's the interior ears that we all too often fail to use at times when we listen to others speaking. People can say alot and go on and on about so much stuff but never truly say whats in their heart and when they do, do we even hear it through all the fluff. Yet there is also those who use words as a smoke screen to hide behind. My friend is one of those who uses words to cover up actions as well as to hide the truth of what's going on.

For me it brought to light something wonderful about what is going on in my life with God. Each moment in our lives we are given opportunities to see God's hand in it. Those moments either bring about a greater fullness in God's love or if we are living as the world, we would see it as something else. It's a moment to learn about God as well as ourselves and others. Some won't see it in anyway particular, neither a moment of grace or as anything else. How do we truly listen to others then when they speak, do we do it both ways, one with the ears and the other with the heart? One must think about this, because if we say we listen with the heart when we speak to others, then we aught to also be able to say we hear God when He speaks to us on a daily basis. That would mean that even though people are hiding behind a facade of words when they speak, when we listen we would know with our interior ears that Jesus is in their heart.

Dating

At work yesterday before I left, I said something that bore such truth. I have a date with my boyfriend. He is well known around the world. He's highly wanted by most everyone. It didn't register with my co-workers at first, but they caught on by the fact that he's well known. My date was my hour of Adoration last evening.

It's not everyday a person says they have a date in this regard, especially one that is with Jesus and His Father and the Holy Spirit. It's a family gathering as well as a date. My date was extremely pleasant, it included feasting the eyes as well as listening to the music he shared. It was an hour of pleasant rapport between hearts. It was a date that was fullfilling and meaningful.

Whoever said dating was the pits never went on a date like this. A person never leaves upset or unfullfilled. Especially when one wears their heart on their sleeve as well as leaves it open for all possibilities of knowing the other better. I love going on those dates where I can treat my date like a King as he deserves and where I am the love of his life. A date between two hearts that become one in spirit. Now that is quite a date to go on!

Three In One

Unique moments present themselves at unusual times. Three different things all coincided together to form one united thing. How is this possible? The same way when God's Word is kept alive in our hearts and we see it in our lives. This morning on my other blog, the daily Bible reading was about Altar furnishings, as it has been the past few days. Not too unusual when just reading it. The same when we go to Mass, nothing unusual, unless of course the days reading for the Mass along with what was read in the Bible and joined together with the thought upon seeing the Altar furnishings as Mass is unfolding. Wham!! A three fold unfolding of God's Word. It was quite an eye opener, a joy to behold, that from the beginning we have been following His Word at our Masses. I've partaken of Mass my whole life, but never noticed the significance before.

Amazing how His Word plays out beautifully when it's least expected. I'm grateful more than anything to have been given such an opportunity to witness His Word in such a way that truly brings it alive. Yet many go to the Mass without once realizing how much His Word is not only part of it but it is what He gave to us as a gift to live by. My heart this morning at Mass, upon seeing the vessels on the Altar, brought to mind the Bible verses along with todays Gospel of seeing and hearing His Word. Take a moment to read the Bible reading and then todays readings while keeping your minds eye on the Altar vessels and you may see what I just related. Amazing!! Three in one, what a gift of faith.

Added after publishing:

For reference todays daily Bible reading was: Exodus 37:21-28, todays Mass readings are 1:Heb 10:11-18 R:Ps 110:1-4 G:Mk 4:1-20.

Possible

One thing people never get over is unconditional love. A few words from this song came through ever so softly while sitting quietly pondering the remnants of my life. More than anything God knows our hearts, at least mine. The words highlighted are words that were softly known. God knows more than anything how much my heart would break if he were to leave my side. I would never get over him, it would take an eternity and then some. A strange song to come through the depths of my heart. But as I read the lyrics I also have come to realize that sometimes our dreams destiny's pass us by, and that's sometimes how I feel with my life. Yet God's presence is my dream and my destiny at this time in my life. Where my heart is aimed directly for his love.

I'll Be Over You

Some people live their dreams
Some people close their eyes
Some people's destiny
Passes by

There are no guarantees
There are no alibis
That's how our love must be
Don't ask why

[Bridge:]
It takes some time
God knows how long
I know that I can forget you

As soon as my heart stops breakin'
Anticipating
As soon as forever is through
I'll be over you

Remembering times gone by
Promises we once made
What are the reasons why
Nothing stays the same

[Bridge:]
There were the nights holding you close
Someday I'll try to forget them
Someday I'll be over you

A New Spiritual Director

OOPs, I published before writing. Wednesday will be a beautiful day, I have my first appointment with a new Spiritual Director. I was told to seek her out after Sister MaryAnn, but timimg wasn't there. I did ask, or should I say my mom asked Father Plasse to be my Spiritual Director, so in a sense I have two now. When I met Mary Lou a connection was found, so a new journey begins.

Sometimes in life we come across people who fit to a tee. I've only felt that once when walking beside another. And that was what I knew interiorly at the time. A rare moment for sure but one I will never forget. Odd that would come to mind, but then again those recall always seem to have their purpose. Maybe as God's way of saying how united we are with others when we walk side by side in His Love. I love God first of all and possible so does that other person. The fit would be one of faith and love of God. Amazing how God joins those who love Him. But that is my take on it, I never asked the other person if this was true for them as well. In this regard it is a man who I am referring to. I've often wondered about the significance of knowing this. Maybe one day it will be revealed.

Well anyway, I let out the exiting news of my up coming appointment, one that I hope will bring about a lasting friendship on the greatest journey of all.

Lifetime

When I received the Program of Events for LaSalette last week in the mail, I noticed upon opening, the schedule for healing Masses. This Sunday was my Holiday and it was a blessing. I attended my Parish Mass and later in the afternoon I did get to go to a healing Mass. This was one time it was done on my own, without any promptings of the Holy Spirit. I went with my mom and dad in thought as well as for myself. It was a threefold journey for healing. Nothing ever prepares a person for tears, yet for some reason throughout the time I was there, that's all that I knew.

My mom was not feeling well when I left and for some reason her sadness stayed with me. She loves La Salette and more than anything I'm sure she would have loved to have gone with me. With her recent back surgery and issues that my dad has been having lately, it would have been too much for them. I think her sadness was also part of her concern for my dads test today. Her fear of being alone should she lose my dad, must weigh heavily on her heart. It's a concern for many who have lived long lives with their partners. It's a facet of life we often fail to witness in others.

The elderly often face this when their other half becomes ill. They have had their whole life with someone but do the young realize the depths they go through or the fear they encounter pending losing a lifetime love. Would they take care of them or push them into a home, never to be bothered with again. For some elderly, their health does not always allow them to live independently and their need for companionship is great.

It's almost a sad thing to know, but can be a blessing when faith is shared together as family. Faith that keeps a family strong in God. All too often in this world there is much focus upon ourselves and not enough on our neighbors well being.

Story Of A Worried Woman

I received this in an email.

A worried woman went to her gynecologist and said:

'Doctor, I have a serious problem and desperately need your help!
My baby is not even 1 yr. old and I'm pregnant again. I don't want kids so close together.So the doctor said: 'Ok, and what do you want me to do?
She said: 'I want you to end my pregnancy, and I'm counting on your help with this. The doctor thought for a little, and after some silence he said to the lady:
'I think I have a better solution for your problem. It's less dangerous for you too.
She smiled, thinking that the doctor was going to accept her request. Then he continued: 'You see, in order for you not to have to take care of 2 babies at the same time, let's kill the one in your arms. This way, you could rest some before the other one is born. If we're going to kill one off then, it doesn't matter which one it is. There would be no risk for your body if you chose the one in your arms.

The lady was horrified and said: 'No doctor! How terrible! It's a crime to kill a child! 'I agree', the doctor replied. But you seemed to be ok with it, so I thought maybe that was the best solution. He smiled, realizing that he had made his point.
He convinced the mom that there is no difference in killing a child that's already been born and one that's still in the womb. The crime is the same!

If you agree, please forward.
Together perhaps we can help save a few very precious lives!

All About Giving

Receiving communion can bring about special prayers asked in a moment of unity with the Father. One of those prayers on Sunday was for God's love to surround the world to open the hearts of the people of the world. That the light of his love would shine brightly. After these type of prayers I have often felt inundated by darkness. I was given a delightful CD last week from a co-worker with many spiritual songs and a few that could be as well. One of the songs is We Are The World, but I never put too much thought on this one because there are many that delight my heart. Yet this morning the chorus to the song of We Are The World was softly heard interiorly in my heart. It was just as soft as when hearing Jesus speak softly. One thing I have noticed, when he wishes to impart something it will repeat until I acknowledge what was received. And that is when I place my thought on the very words imparted. This morning I went in search of the lyrics and was surprised. I never truly thought too much about this song and the words that were sung. Click on the title of the song below to hear it. I don't know if it's because of what I prayed for on Sunday or God's way of saying I need to give more love as well. That is the beauty of discerning his love. May I give more love to those who are forever in need.

We Are The World

There comes a time, when we hear a certain call
When the world must come together as one
There are people dying, and it's time to lend a hand.
To life the greatest gift of all
We can't go on, pretending day by day
That someone somewhere will soon make a change
We are all part of God's great big family
And the truth, you know that love is all we need

chorus
We are the world, we are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day so let's start giving

There's a choice we're making
We're saving our own lives
It's true, we'll make a better day just you and me.
Send them your heart, so they'll know that someone cares
And their lives will be stronger and free
As God has shown us, by turning stones to bread.
So that we all must lend a helping hand.
We are the world......
When you're down and out
There seems no hope at all
But if you just believe there's no way we can fall
Well, well, well, well, let's realise
That a change can only come
When we stand together as one
We are the world......

Jesus

There is something unusual and wonderful that happens every now and then. It's moments when the name of Jesus escapes my lips out of the blue. It bubbles forth from the depths of my being. I've often wondered in those moments if I should do as Samuel did and reply, "Speak Lord, for your servant is listening." Yet the name of Jesus just comes forth and I don't know why. Those precious moments I know the closeness of our Lord. Is it perhaps his nearness that evokes such a response from our hearts in the first place. What is in our heart comes resounding out of our mouths when we are united lovingly to Him.

At Mass yesterday a thought came through about spreading God's Love. A moment that reflected upon His grace in my life. It was by no means a detraction from Mass but an added bonus during the Homily. Yet that thought had no bearing on what was preached. An idea was born by God's grace. One that will merit discernment and reflection as He will continue to guide my path and journey in faith and love.

Special Celebrations

Additions to the family are wonderful. My niece Kelly and her husband Matt have become parents of a baby boy a few days ago. And to think if the little one waited two more days he just might have been born on my Dad's birthday today. The little fella just wanted his own special day. What a blessing that families receive when a child is brought into this world. The newness of life. Happy Birthday!!

Ripples of Love

There are times when the Holy Spirit works quite powerfully. The last few days have been unusual ones. Quiet ones for writing but not on interior reflection. My mom had an appointment the other day, and mentioned she would stop by the Chapel and see for herself. I was there when she did, but I never knew she was there until she whispered to me that she does not see anything on the Host. Yet I see quite clearly the initials JHS on it.

Anyway this morning on my way to Mass was quite an eye opener when for some odd reason I began to think about the ex-boyfriend and something he said to me at the end of our relationship. It had to do with the way he was doing something and how he was preparing things and that brought to mind the same thing about God. How strange that his words to me so long ago has made sense about Jesus and his preparing a place for us. I know it's in the Bible, but where I don't know. I wasn't gifted with that type of knowledge to be able to place where in what Chapter or verse. But I know that what he did say to me made so much sense this morning. It was not only an eye opener it opened the door and I saw God's image in him in that moment, as well as God's Word. At the end of that relationship I had lost trust in this man and what he stood for. Yet this morning that long past conversation stood out and so did God's Word as well. And I understood far more than ever what he was saying only now it's too late for him and I. But for God it's not too late to mend our ways. Sometimes we are so blinded by our own ignorance that we push people away for fear of letting them get too close. This morning when I recalled so very much about my own stupidity I finally saw the biggest glimpse ever of what God is all about and our own treatment of Him. It was truly an amazing lesson and one I am glad to have learned. The ex-boyfriend had stated several times to me about what I thought of him, that it would be on the day I die I would see the truth about him and my mistrust.

But later on after Mass, I went home and began to tackle my preparation for Scripture sharing and found myself doing something else entirely. The picture on my sidebar of Jesus, the one I threw in the fire and it survived. I knew so much joy this day, but as I came to accept the fact that no one else sees what I see, I had begun to ask for what purpose then is this grace. Or just his wonderful way of making a bold statement of love and also to say trust in him. Yet I have trusted God all my life, at least I believe I have. Could I have been wrong then in my own thinking about this too. But the joy I felt and knew stated otherwise, it signaled his love for understanding His Word. This man from my past then played a pivotol role by bringing about an understanding of God's love even though it was said several years ago it finally became clear the true meaning of God's love in a round about way. God does use various ways to bring that understanding to light and today was one of them. The ripple effect is amazing.

Vision

There has been something strange when I look upon the Host in Adoration. I can see it without my eyeglasses quite clearly. But the unusual part is the initials JHS on it. Before Christmas after a huge snow storm a new host was placed in the monstrance. This was after the forty hour devotion. I happened to say to another adorer aren't those initials beautiful, and she agreed. So I assumed this host was embossed. How odd it is to see it without the glasses when I've had to use them before to see the host fairly clear. Last night I mentioned it to Kerry, but odd thing he said he didn't see the initials. He doesn't wear glasses either. Anyway I think it's quite nice to be able to visually see the initials quite well and when I put my glasses on to see it, I can't see it as well. Either way I will continue to figure that this is an embossed host, just only that the grace of vision is a bit better than I thought. Considering anything over two arms length is a bit blurry. Go figure!