I have had this blog on hiatus, but the following poen toouched my Franciscan Heart: Visit the authors site below the link.
Be Generous.
Today's Thought
Give more than you were planning to.
More of your money, your time,
your energy, your attention,
your efforts, your talents.
Give without worrying about how
you might be paid back.
Know that every thing you have
comes from God and has been given
to you freely.
Do the same.
Do not worry that you might
give too much.
Worry about not giving enough.
If in the end you come up short,
our Heavenly Father will fill
you up where are lacking.
Visit Danielle's Site
Friday, November 11, 2005
Monday, July 11, 2005
Ozymandias
I met a traveller from an antique land
Who said: `Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed.
And on the pedestal these words appear --
"My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.'
-- "Ozymandias", Percy Bysshe Shelley
I happened upon these woirds, a poem memorized in grade school. The truth that survives is of the Lord, all else is lies, fleeting and blowing in the breeze.
Who said: `Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed.
And on the pedestal these words appear --
"My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.'
-- "Ozymandias", Percy Bysshe Shelley
I happened upon these woirds, a poem memorized in grade school. The truth that survives is of the Lord, all else is lies, fleeting and blowing in the breeze.
The Good Ground
After hearing the Gospel of the week, this poem touched my heart.
A Disciple's Prayer
I bow to the sacred in all creation.
May my spirit fill the world with beauty and wonder.
May my mind seek truth with humility and openness.
May my heart forgive without limit.
May my love for friend, enemy, and outcast be without measure.
May my needs be few and my living simple.
May my actions bear witness to the suffering of others.
May my hands never harm a living being.
May my steps stay on the journey of justice.
May my tongue speak for those who are poor without fear of the powerful.
May my prayers rise with patient discontent until no child is hungry.
May my life's work be a passion for peace and nonviolence.
May my soul rejoice in the present moment.
May my imagination overcome death and despair with new possibility.
And may I risk reputation, comfort, and security to bring this hope to the children.
Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB
My meditation on the Gospel this week, of the seeds sown on the ground, is that the seed falls where it will, and ground is ground.
My wife is a gardener, and we just retunred from vacation. She had a neighbor water the ground. I'm sure she will be working the earth before long to make things right again.
Ground can be made better, but only by those who tend the ground. A path can be redirected, and the soil enriched so that a plant can grow. The nature of rocky ground an be changed by removing the rocks or pulveriziing them into soil. Properly cared for soil will not produce choking weeds. The good grounds keeper will not let those weeds get out of control. A little plant food will make a growing plant happier and healthier. So ask our grounds tender to be with us and make us more fruitful!
A Disciple's Prayer
I bow to the sacred in all creation.
May my spirit fill the world with beauty and wonder.
May my mind seek truth with humility and openness.
May my heart forgive without limit.
May my love for friend, enemy, and outcast be without measure.
May my needs be few and my living simple.
May my actions bear witness to the suffering of others.
May my hands never harm a living being.
May my steps stay on the journey of justice.
May my tongue speak for those who are poor without fear of the powerful.
May my prayers rise with patient discontent until no child is hungry.
May my life's work be a passion for peace and nonviolence.
May my soul rejoice in the present moment.
May my imagination overcome death and despair with new possibility.
And may I risk reputation, comfort, and security to bring this hope to the children.
Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB
My meditation on the Gospel this week, of the seeds sown on the ground, is that the seed falls where it will, and ground is ground.
My wife is a gardener, and we just retunred from vacation. She had a neighbor water the ground. I'm sure she will be working the earth before long to make things right again.
Ground can be made better, but only by those who tend the ground. A path can be redirected, and the soil enriched so that a plant can grow. The nature of rocky ground an be changed by removing the rocks or pulveriziing them into soil. Properly cared for soil will not produce choking weeds. The good grounds keeper will not let those weeds get out of control. A little plant food will make a growing plant happier and healthier. So ask our grounds tender to be with us and make us more fruitful!
Monday, June 27, 2005
Beliefnet.com -- Grace Happens
Beliefnet.com -- Today's Inspiration Reading
today's story was about a person who was contesting a traffic ticket, how the author listened to plea after plea not change the mind of the judge, and how a police officer was not there to be the accuser, so the charges got dismissed.
The author saw person after person give 'valid' excuses (many not so valid). Prepared for an arguement, and dismissed. In the parking lot, God's little reminder: Grace happens. What a blessing to have it happen! What a greater blessing for us to REALIZE that it happened! Praise God!
today's story was about a person who was contesting a traffic ticket, how the author listened to plea after plea not change the mind of the judge, and how a police officer was not there to be the accuser, so the charges got dismissed.
The author saw person after person give 'valid' excuses (many not so valid). Prepared for an arguement, and dismissed. In the parking lot, God's little reminder: Grace happens. What a blessing to have it happen! What a greater blessing for us to REALIZE that it happened! Praise God!
WTNH.com - High court bars display of Ten Commandments at courthouses
WTNH.com - High court bars display of Ten Commandments at courthouses: "High court bars display of Ten Commandments at courthouses"
(Washington-AP, June 27, 2005 Updated 10:31 AM) _ In a narrowly drawn ruling, the Supreme Court struck down Ten Commandments displays in courthouses Monday, holding that two exhibits in Kentucky crossed the line between separation of church and state because they promoted a religious message.
The 5-4 decision, first of two seeking to mediate the bitter culture war over religion's place in public life, took a case-by-case approach to this vexing issue. In the decision, the court declined to prohibit all displays in court buildings or on government property.
The justices left themselves legal wiggle room on this issue, however, saying that some displays -- like their own courtroom frieze -- would be permissible if they're portrayed neutrally in order to honor the nation's legal history.
But framed copies in two Kentucky courthouses went too far in endorsing religion, the court held.
the touchstone for our analysis is the principle that the First Amendment mandates government neutrality between religion and religion, and between religion and nonreligion,' Justice David H. Souter wrote for the majority.
'When the government acts with the ostensible and predominant purpose of advancing religion, it violates that central Establishment clause value of official religious neutrality,' he said.
Souter was joined in his opinion by other members of the liberal bloc -- Justices John Paul Stevens, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen G. Breyer, as well as Reagan appointee Sandra Day O'Connor, who provided the swing vote.
In a dissent, Justice Antonin Scalia argued that Ten Commandments displays are a legitimate tribute to the nation's religious and legal history.
Government officials may have had a religious purpose when they originally posted the Ten Commandments display by itself in 1999. But their efforts to dilute the religious message since then by hanging other historical documents in the courthouses made it constitutionally adequate, Scalia said.
He was joined in his opinion by Chief William H. Rehnquist, as well as Justice Anthony Kennedy and Clarence Thomas.
'In the court's view , the impermissible motive was apparent from the initial displays of the Ten Commandments all by themselves: When that occurs: the Court says, a religious object is unmistakable,' he wrote. 'Surely that cannot be.'
'The Commandments have a proper place in our civil history,' Scalia wrote.
The case was one of two heard by the Supreme Court in March involving Ten Commandments displays in Kentucky and Texas. That case asks whether the Ten Commandments may be displayed on the grounds outside the state capitol.
The cases marked the first time since 1980 the high court tackled the emotional issue, in a courtroom boasting a wall carving of Moses holding the sacred tablets.
A broader ruling than the one rendered Monday could have determined the allowable role of religion in a wide range of public contexts, from the use of religious music in a school concert to students' recitation of 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance. It is a question that has sharply divided the lower courts in recent years.
But in their ruling Monday, justices chose to stick with a cautious case-by-case approach.
Two Kentucky counties originally hung the copies of the Ten Commandments in their courthouses. After the ACLU filed suit, the counties modified their displays to add other documents demonstrating 'America's Christian heritage,' including the national motto of 'In God We Trust' and a version of the Congressional Record declaring 1983 the 'Year of the Bible.'
"
I am not surprised by this, but deeply saddened. I will continue to pray for this country, but since it's laws are clearly no longer based on the 10 commandments, they are of men and not God, I do not see the nation as one nation under God.
The nation lies when it puts "In God We Trust" on currency
The nation forfiets the blessings the founding fathers brought forth
The nation and those who push aside the commands of God will receive the fruit of that action, just as those who obey the commands of God will enjoy these fruits.
I will put my trust in the God who has the power of life and death, not the stiff necked people who look to sieze that power.
I will not trust this government, but I will trust the God who still allows this government to exist.
(Washington-AP, June 27, 2005 Updated 10:31 AM) _ In a narrowly drawn ruling, the Supreme Court struck down Ten Commandments displays in courthouses Monday, holding that two exhibits in Kentucky crossed the line between separation of church and state because they promoted a religious message.
The 5-4 decision, first of two seeking to mediate the bitter culture war over religion's place in public life, took a case-by-case approach to this vexing issue. In the decision, the court declined to prohibit all displays in court buildings or on government property.
The justices left themselves legal wiggle room on this issue, however, saying that some displays -- like their own courtroom frieze -- would be permissible if they're portrayed neutrally in order to honor the nation's legal history.
But framed copies in two Kentucky courthouses went too far in endorsing religion, the court held.
the touchstone for our analysis is the principle that the First Amendment mandates government neutrality between religion and religion, and between religion and nonreligion,' Justice David H. Souter wrote for the majority.
'When the government acts with the ostensible and predominant purpose of advancing religion, it violates that central Establishment clause value of official religious neutrality,' he said.
Souter was joined in his opinion by other members of the liberal bloc -- Justices John Paul Stevens, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen G. Breyer, as well as Reagan appointee Sandra Day O'Connor, who provided the swing vote.
In a dissent, Justice Antonin Scalia argued that Ten Commandments displays are a legitimate tribute to the nation's religious and legal history.
Government officials may have had a religious purpose when they originally posted the Ten Commandments display by itself in 1999. But their efforts to dilute the religious message since then by hanging other historical documents in the courthouses made it constitutionally adequate, Scalia said.
He was joined in his opinion by Chief William H. Rehnquist, as well as Justice Anthony Kennedy and Clarence Thomas.
'In the court's view , the impermissible motive was apparent from the initial displays of the Ten Commandments all by themselves: When that occurs: the Court says, a religious object is unmistakable,' he wrote. 'Surely that cannot be.'
'The Commandments have a proper place in our civil history,' Scalia wrote.
The case was one of two heard by the Supreme Court in March involving Ten Commandments displays in Kentucky and Texas. That case asks whether the Ten Commandments may be displayed on the grounds outside the state capitol.
The cases marked the first time since 1980 the high court tackled the emotional issue, in a courtroom boasting a wall carving of Moses holding the sacred tablets.
A broader ruling than the one rendered Monday could have determined the allowable role of religion in a wide range of public contexts, from the use of religious music in a school concert to students' recitation of 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance. It is a question that has sharply divided the lower courts in recent years.
But in their ruling Monday, justices chose to stick with a cautious case-by-case approach.
Two Kentucky counties originally hung the copies of the Ten Commandments in their courthouses. After the ACLU filed suit, the counties modified their displays to add other documents demonstrating 'America's Christian heritage,' including the national motto of 'In God We Trust' and a version of the Congressional Record declaring 1983 the 'Year of the Bible.'
"
I am not surprised by this, but deeply saddened. I will continue to pray for this country, but since it's laws are clearly no longer based on the 10 commandments, they are of men and not God, I do not see the nation as one nation under God.
The nation lies when it puts "In God We Trust" on currency
The nation forfiets the blessings the founding fathers brought forth
The nation and those who push aside the commands of God will receive the fruit of that action, just as those who obey the commands of God will enjoy these fruits.
I will put my trust in the God who has the power of life and death, not the stiff necked people who look to sieze that power.
I will not trust this government, but I will trust the God who still allows this government to exist.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Ten ways to attract new people into your life
A little meditation for today, as long as we live we will be meeting new people, and these have been put in our life by God. Let us put our best face forward for God!
Whether you are attracting new clients for your business, have moved into a new community and want to make friends, have started a new job, or are open to romance, here are some ways to attract new people:
1. Smile.
I recently heard of a man who met his fiance when she gave him a friendly smile at the dry cleaners, and he asked the cleaners for her name. Smiling is often a first point of contact.
2. Eye contact.
This is a sign of confidence and contact. WARNING: longer than 3 seconds is considered flirting; staring is a turn off. (This varies from culture to culture, as well as smiling, speaking first, and shaking hands. Some cultures hug, kiss on the cheek, bow.)
3. Say "hi."
If we all always waited for the other to speak, we would live in a silent world.
4. A firm handshake.
Need I say more? This also conveys confidence.
5. Go where the people you want to attract will be.
I heard of a woman who prefers meeting men at the local Chamber of Commerce rather than a bar, because "at least I know they will have a job." If you want to meet other professionals, join the professional organization. If you want to meet other skiers, go to the local ski club meeting. If you want to meet people with similar morals, beliefs, and values, try a church, synagogue, temple, etc. It is hard to attract new people when you are sitting home alone watching TV.
6. Dress appropriately.
If you want to attract clients, dress like people do in their business and culture. Using the example again of meeting people with similar beliefs, morals, and values: if you want to meet conservative people, do not wear something flashy or flamboyant. If you want to run with the motorcycle crowd, go for the leather pants! Obviously, clothes that are clean, pressed, that fit, are not outdated.
7. Be honest, positive, and brief.
Honesty: because relationships are founded on trust. Positive: attitude, attitude, attitude! Brief: so you leave plenty of time to...
8. Listen!
Everyone has the desire to feel significant. Doesn't someone truly
listening to you, showing an interest in you and your interests, and your business enhance that feeling?
9. Be happy, content with yourself and your life.
Do you think someone new wants to hear about how great things were back at/with X company, town, or person? Will you draw people to yourself if you are doing it out of desperation, because you feel incomplete, not OK, lonely? (N0.) It is hard to be happy, content when you are comparing. When you are happy, you will naturally be smiling!
10. Be the kind of person you want to attract.
If you want to attract someone who is in shape and has a healthy
lifestyle, be in shape and have a healthy lifestyle. If you want to
attract clients you can count on and pay on time, be accountable and pay on time. If you want to attract good communicators who treat you well, make sure your communication skills are polished, and pay attention to how you treat others. ETC.
Copyright 97, 98, 99, 00, 2001 CoachVille
This content may be forwarded in full, with copyright, contact, and
creation information intact, without specific permission, when used only
in a not-for-profit context. For other uses, permission in writing from
CoachVille is required. Questions: email topten@coachville.com
Whether you are attracting new clients for your business, have moved into a new community and want to make friends, have started a new job, or are open to romance, here are some ways to attract new people:
1. Smile.
I recently heard of a man who met his fiance when she gave him a friendly smile at the dry cleaners, and he asked the cleaners for her name. Smiling is often a first point of contact.
2. Eye contact.
This is a sign of confidence and contact. WARNING: longer than 3 seconds is considered flirting; staring is a turn off. (This varies from culture to culture, as well as smiling, speaking first, and shaking hands. Some cultures hug, kiss on the cheek, bow.)
3. Say "hi."
If we all always waited for the other to speak, we would live in a silent world.
4. A firm handshake.
Need I say more? This also conveys confidence.
5. Go where the people you want to attract will be.
I heard of a woman who prefers meeting men at the local Chamber of Commerce rather than a bar, because "at least I know they will have a job." If you want to meet other professionals, join the professional organization. If you want to meet other skiers, go to the local ski club meeting. If you want to meet people with similar morals, beliefs, and values, try a church, synagogue, temple, etc. It is hard to attract new people when you are sitting home alone watching TV.
6. Dress appropriately.
If you want to attract clients, dress like people do in their business and culture. Using the example again of meeting people with similar beliefs, morals, and values: if you want to meet conservative people, do not wear something flashy or flamboyant. If you want to run with the motorcycle crowd, go for the leather pants! Obviously, clothes that are clean, pressed, that fit, are not outdated.
7. Be honest, positive, and brief.
Honesty: because relationships are founded on trust. Positive: attitude, attitude, attitude! Brief: so you leave plenty of time to...
8. Listen!
Everyone has the desire to feel significant. Doesn't someone truly
listening to you, showing an interest in you and your interests, and your business enhance that feeling?
9. Be happy, content with yourself and your life.
Do you think someone new wants to hear about how great things were back at/with X company, town, or person? Will you draw people to yourself if you are doing it out of desperation, because you feel incomplete, not OK, lonely? (N0.) It is hard to be happy, content when you are comparing. When you are happy, you will naturally be smiling!
10. Be the kind of person you want to attract.
If you want to attract someone who is in shape and has a healthy
lifestyle, be in shape and have a healthy lifestyle. If you want to
attract clients you can count on and pay on time, be accountable and pay on time. If you want to attract good communicators who treat you well, make sure your communication skills are polished, and pay attention to how you treat others. ETC.
Copyright 97, 98, 99, 00, 2001 CoachVille
This content may be forwarded in full, with copyright, contact, and
creation information intact, without specific permission, when used only
in a not-for-profit context. For other uses, permission in writing from
CoachVille is required. Questions: email topten@coachville.com
Friday, June 17, 2005
PAINTED WITH A DIFFERENT BRUSH LifeSupport
Yahoo! Groups : LifeSupport Messages : Message 717 of 717
Steve is a good writer, and one who can find the nugget of truth and refine it to gold. Today's installment included the story of the shooting the brinks men who were shot and of the only 2 people who returned the money.
What bothers me the most is that people were loading up on the money while the guards lie there bleeding. I guess this inspires the following prayer:
Heavenly Father, You give us all good things. May we always see your beauty in all of creation, in particular the people with whom we share our day. May we show them your face, your compassion and love and find reward in that act. I know you will take care of me, so I do not need to take advantage of anyone for my daily needs. May you spirit always guide me to act according to your will, and bring forth your kingdom. I ask this in the name of your Son, who showed us your face, allowing us to recognize it in all creation.
Steve is a good writer, and one who can find the nugget of truth and refine it to gold. Today's installment included the story of the shooting the brinks men who were shot and of the only 2 people who returned the money.
What bothers me the most is that people were loading up on the money while the guards lie there bleeding. I guess this inspires the following prayer:
Heavenly Father, You give us all good things. May we always see your beauty in all of creation, in particular the people with whom we share our day. May we show them your face, your compassion and love and find reward in that act. I know you will take care of me, so I do not need to take advantage of anyone for my daily needs. May you spirit always guide me to act according to your will, and bring forth your kingdom. I ask this in the name of your Son, who showed us your face, allowing us to recognize it in all creation.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
From Father to Child
From Father to Child by Joe Kita (Men's Health)
In researching my book Wisdom of Our Fathers, I interviewed 138 men of all ages and from all walks of life. We talked about career satisfaction... the secrets of making love last... how to find happiness. But few of the men were having the same conversations with their children.
It's never too late. Seven essential life lessons that every dad should share, no matter how old his children are...
Be curious. Kids are innately curious -- but in our rush to get wherever we're going, we fathers are always urging them to move along. Nothing will better unite you with your children -- and better prepare them for life -- than sharing mutual wonder and the urge to explore.
Example: Maybe there is an interesting insect or a beautiful flower in your backyard. Get down on your knees and examine it closely... look it up on the Internet. Try to figure out how any type of machine works -- toaster, lawn mower, car, etc.
Be generous. Not just with money -- but with time... possessions... and love. The spirit of generosity will teach your children empathy, helping them feel concern for those around them.
Admit when you're wrong. If you don't act as though you're perfect, your children will know that they don't have to be perfect either.
Be willing to fail. The kite crashes... a repair doesn't work... the puzzle pieces won't fit together. So what? You've shown your kids that it's important to try new things, regardless of how they turn out.
Trap: Some fathers try to appear perfect. Their children will always feel pressured to live up to unrealistic ideals.
Be spontaneous. My dad planned everything to the last detail. While it is fine to be organized, it also creates pressure to do things in certain ways. This takes some joy out of life.
Teach your kids that it's okay to abandon plans when something else comes along... to turn left even though they had planned to turn right.
Instant adventures: See what activity looks interesting in the newspaper and do it... hop on a bicycle or get in the car and see where the road takes you -- maybe make nothing but right turns... get on a bus and get off at an unfamiliar stop to explore.
Embrace spirituality. We all find spirituality in different ways -- by going to church or synagogue... meditating... appreciating the glories of nature. Encourage your children to cultivate their sense of awe and wonder -- not once a week, but all the time. Spirituality is like a muscle -- you have to use it frequently to make it stronger.
Respect your body. Nothing is more important than good health. Lead by example -- this is not a lesson you can teach by talking.
Let your kids see you exercising (encourage them to join in)... eating a healthful diet... and generally living a clean life.
Bottom Line interviewed Joe Kita, executive writer at Men's Health and Pennsylvania-based author of several books, including Wisdom of Our Fathers, and Another Shot: How I Relived My Life in Less Than a Year (Rodale).
Being a Father is as big a gift as the good Lord can give. It is a reflection of his own life and love for us. Yes, being a good Father is something to work at, be we are not on our own. We have the example and grace of our heavenly Father.
In researching my book Wisdom of Our Fathers, I interviewed 138 men of all ages and from all walks of life. We talked about career satisfaction... the secrets of making love last... how to find happiness. But few of the men were having the same conversations with their children.
It's never too late. Seven essential life lessons that every dad should share, no matter how old his children are...
Be curious. Kids are innately curious -- but in our rush to get wherever we're going, we fathers are always urging them to move along. Nothing will better unite you with your children -- and better prepare them for life -- than sharing mutual wonder and the urge to explore.
Example: Maybe there is an interesting insect or a beautiful flower in your backyard. Get down on your knees and examine it closely... look it up on the Internet. Try to figure out how any type of machine works -- toaster, lawn mower, car, etc.
Be generous. Not just with money -- but with time... possessions... and love. The spirit of generosity will teach your children empathy, helping them feel concern for those around them.
Admit when you're wrong. If you don't act as though you're perfect, your children will know that they don't have to be perfect either.
Be willing to fail. The kite crashes... a repair doesn't work... the puzzle pieces won't fit together. So what? You've shown your kids that it's important to try new things, regardless of how they turn out.
Trap: Some fathers try to appear perfect. Their children will always feel pressured to live up to unrealistic ideals.
Be spontaneous. My dad planned everything to the last detail. While it is fine to be organized, it also creates pressure to do things in certain ways. This takes some joy out of life.
Teach your kids that it's okay to abandon plans when something else comes along... to turn left even though they had planned to turn right.
Instant adventures: See what activity looks interesting in the newspaper and do it... hop on a bicycle or get in the car and see where the road takes you -- maybe make nothing but right turns... get on a bus and get off at an unfamiliar stop to explore.
Embrace spirituality. We all find spirituality in different ways -- by going to church or synagogue... meditating... appreciating the glories of nature. Encourage your children to cultivate their sense of awe and wonder -- not once a week, but all the time. Spirituality is like a muscle -- you have to use it frequently to make it stronger.
Respect your body. Nothing is more important than good health. Lead by example -- this is not a lesson you can teach by talking.
Let your kids see you exercising (encourage them to join in)... eating a healthful diet... and generally living a clean life.
Bottom Line interviewed Joe Kita, executive writer at Men's Health and Pennsylvania-based author of several books, including Wisdom of Our Fathers, and Another Shot: How I Relived My Life in Less Than a Year (Rodale).
Being a Father is as big a gift as the good Lord can give. It is a reflection of his own life and love for us. Yes, being a good Father is something to work at, be we are not on our own. We have the example and grace of our heavenly Father.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
What I Would Have Missed
What I Would Have Missed
by Max Lucado
I could have been out of town that week. I had an invitation to be in the Midwest at a church. I turned it down. What if I hadn't? If I had gone, I would have had the attention of a thousand people for an hour.
I would have had the opportunity to speak about Jesus to some people who don't know him. Is a Tuesday evening at home with three children and a spouse more important than preaching to an audience?
Read my list of what I would have missed. Then you decide.
I would have missed a trip to the swimming pool in which I saw Jenna climb onto her inner tube for the first time.
I would have missed fifteen minutes of bouncing up and down in the shallow end of the pool, with Andrea clinging to my neck singing the theme from "Sleeping Beauty."
I would have missed seeing Denalyn get sentimental as she unpacked a box of baby clothes.
I wouldn't have gone on a walk with the girls during which Jenna found ten "special" rocks.
I wouldn't have been there to hold Andrea when her finger got slammed in the door.
I wouldn't have been there to answer Jenna's question: "Daddy, what is a handicapped person?"
What do you think? I know my vote. There are a hundred speakers who could have addressed that crowd, but my girls just have one daddy.
After I made my list, just for the fun of it I picked up the phone and called the church that had asked me to come and speak that week. The minister wasn't in, but his secretary was. "Isn't this the week of your seminar?" I asked.
"Oh, yes! It has been a wonderful success!"
They didn't even miss me.
According to Max, some things came beofre his preaching. It looks like the Lord wanted to spend some time speaking to him about His Love in a different way. Blessed be the Lord!
by Max Lucado
I could have been out of town that week. I had an invitation to be in the Midwest at a church. I turned it down. What if I hadn't? If I had gone, I would have had the attention of a thousand people for an hour.
I would have had the opportunity to speak about Jesus to some people who don't know him. Is a Tuesday evening at home with three children and a spouse more important than preaching to an audience?
Read my list of what I would have missed. Then you decide.
I would have missed a trip to the swimming pool in which I saw Jenna climb onto her inner tube for the first time.
I would have missed fifteen minutes of bouncing up and down in the shallow end of the pool, with Andrea clinging to my neck singing the theme from "Sleeping Beauty."
I would have missed seeing Denalyn get sentimental as she unpacked a box of baby clothes.
I wouldn't have gone on a walk with the girls during which Jenna found ten "special" rocks.
I wouldn't have been there to hold Andrea when her finger got slammed in the door.
I wouldn't have been there to answer Jenna's question: "Daddy, what is a handicapped person?"
What do you think? I know my vote. There are a hundred speakers who could have addressed that crowd, but my girls just have one daddy.
After I made my list, just for the fun of it I picked up the phone and called the church that had asked me to come and speak that week. The minister wasn't in, but his secretary was. "Isn't this the week of your seminar?" I asked.
"Oh, yes! It has been a wonderful success!"
They didn't even miss me.
According to Max, some things came beofre his preaching. It looks like the Lord wanted to spend some time speaking to him about His Love in a different way. Blessed be the Lord!
Friday, June 10, 2005
Although pope might not return, neighbor cares for home, garden
Although pope might not return, neighbor cares for home, garden
PENTLING, Germany (CNS) -- Although Pope Benedict XVI might never return to the home he built and still owns in Pentling, his next-door neighbor cares for the garden each day. Housekeeper and neighbor Rupert Hofbauer said his relationship with the pope goes back to 1969, when then-Father Joseph Ratzinger moved to Pentling after becoming a professor of theology at nearby Regensburg University. "This house is his own. I was there when he bought the plot, hired an architect and built it," Hofbauer recalled in late May. "He needed somewhere quiet, but within walking distance of the university because he does not drive. "He came over, introduced himself and said he was going to build a house," the neighbor remembered. "It became his permanent home, and he returned as often as he could. He usually celebrated New Year's together with his brother, Georg, just the two of them. In summer, they would often sit on his balcony, reading, or walk around the garden. Then they would retire indoors and make themselves a simple supper."
Life imitates life, Just as the Pope looks after the Savior's vineyard, so we all have been enrusted to look after creation.
Thank you God for your many blessings!
PENTLING, Germany (CNS) -- Although Pope Benedict XVI might never return to the home he built and still owns in Pentling, his next-door neighbor cares for the garden each day. Housekeeper and neighbor Rupert Hofbauer said his relationship with the pope goes back to 1969, when then-Father Joseph Ratzinger moved to Pentling after becoming a professor of theology at nearby Regensburg University. "This house is his own. I was there when he bought the plot, hired an architect and built it," Hofbauer recalled in late May. "He needed somewhere quiet, but within walking distance of the university because he does not drive. "He came over, introduced himself and said he was going to build a house," the neighbor remembered. "It became his permanent home, and he returned as often as he could. He usually celebrated New Year's together with his brother, Georg, just the two of them. In summer, they would often sit on his balcony, reading, or walk around the garden. Then they would retire indoors and make themselves a simple supper."
Life imitates life, Just as the Pope looks after the Savior's vineyard, so we all have been enrusted to look after creation.
Thank you God for your many blessings!
Live It!
Life is beauty; appreciate it.
Life is a dream; realize it.
Life is a challenge; meet it.
Life is a duty; complete it.
Life is a game; play it.
Life is a sorrow; feel it.
Life is a song; sing it.
Life is a struggle; accept it.
Life is an adventure; risk it.
Life is luck; make it.
Life is a puzzle; solve it.
Life is opportunity; take it.
Life is a song; sing it.
Life is a mission; fulfill it.
Life is life; live it!
Just a meditation and a reminder. Someone once said "life is not a dress rehersal". Even though we are looking forward to our heavenly reward, God has us here and now. We should not only take advantage of the life, but emmerse ourselves in it.
By experiencing Gods gifts, we are so blessed. In experiencing life, we experience God. We find God's face in the face of the living.
Peace and all good to you today!
Life is a dream; realize it.
Life is a challenge; meet it.
Life is a duty; complete it.
Life is a game; play it.
Life is a sorrow; feel it.
Life is a song; sing it.
Life is a struggle; accept it.
Life is an adventure; risk it.
Life is luck; make it.
Life is a puzzle; solve it.
Life is opportunity; take it.
Life is a song; sing it.
Life is a mission; fulfill it.
Life is life; live it!
Just a meditation and a reminder. Someone once said "life is not a dress rehersal". Even though we are looking forward to our heavenly reward, God has us here and now. We should not only take advantage of the life, but emmerse ourselves in it.
By experiencing Gods gifts, we are so blessed. In experiencing life, we experience God. We find God's face in the face of the living.
Peace and all good to you today!
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Dear Baby
Dear Baby - An inspirational letter from war
Dear Baby
A soldier writes to her unborn child about duty to her country and the decision to serve in the military.
By Staff Sgt. Sharon McBride
This story reminds me of what the military is all about. At the base , it is people; but also much more. You hear many bad things about the military, but these are our people, who are in theory trying to do something good and should be embraced and brought home as heroes.
Dear Baby
A soldier writes to her unborn child about duty to her country and the decision to serve in the military.
By Staff Sgt. Sharon McBride
This story reminds me of what the military is all about. At the base , it is people; but also much more. You hear many bad things about the military, but these are our people, who are in theory trying to do something good and should be embraced and brought home as heroes.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
ZENIT News Agency--June a Month to Rediscover Christ's Love, Says Pope
I think Pope Benedict's words don't need to be added to. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us and Protect us!
ZENIT News Agency--The World Seen from Rome
Date: 2005-06-01
June a Month to Rediscover Christ's Love, Says Pope
Makes Special Exhortation to Young People and the Sick
VATICAN CITY, JUNE 1, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI urged young people and the sick in particular to rediscover Christ's love during June, a month dedicated to the Sacred Heart.
Speaking in Spanish at the end of today's general audience in St. Peter's Square, the Pope reminded the faithful that "next Friday is the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus" and encouraged them to pray "that he may help us to love our brothers as he loved us."
This feast was promulgated in memory of Christ's apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647-1690) in which Christ expressed his sorrow over the sins and sacrileges of humanity.
Before taking leave of the 25,000 people who attended the audience, the Holy Father addressed special greetings to young people, the sick and newlyweds.
"We begin today the month of June, dedicated to the Sacred Heart," he said. "Let us pause frequently to contemplate this profound mystery of Divine Love.
"Dear young people, in the school of the Heart of Christ, you will learn to assume with seriousness the responsibilities that await you."
Addressing the sick, many of whom were in the front rows, the Pontiff invited them to find "in that infinite source of mercy the courage and patience to understand the will of God in every situation."
"And you, dear newlyweds," he added, "remain faithful to the love of God, witnessing to it with your conjugal love."
ZENIT News Agency--The World Seen from Rome
Date: 2005-06-01
June a Month to Rediscover Christ's Love, Says Pope
Makes Special Exhortation to Young People and the Sick
VATICAN CITY, JUNE 1, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI urged young people and the sick in particular to rediscover Christ's love during June, a month dedicated to the Sacred Heart.
Speaking in Spanish at the end of today's general audience in St. Peter's Square, the Pope reminded the faithful that "next Friday is the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus" and encouraged them to pray "that he may help us to love our brothers as he loved us."
This feast was promulgated in memory of Christ's apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647-1690) in which Christ expressed his sorrow over the sins and sacrileges of humanity.
Before taking leave of the 25,000 people who attended the audience, the Holy Father addressed special greetings to young people, the sick and newlyweds.
"We begin today the month of June, dedicated to the Sacred Heart," he said. "Let us pause frequently to contemplate this profound mystery of Divine Love.
"Dear young people, in the school of the Heart of Christ, you will learn to assume with seriousness the responsibilities that await you."
Addressing the sick, many of whom were in the front rows, the Pontiff invited them to find "in that infinite source of mercy the courage and patience to understand the will of God in every situation."
"And you, dear newlyweds," he added, "remain faithful to the love of God, witnessing to it with your conjugal love."
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Just for today
There is a lesson to the following message. I offer my prayers for the children of the world who need someone to care for them. I offer thanksgiving to the father for those children to whom he has given good parents. I beg forgiveness for those parents who fall short of God's plan. I guess we all do to some extent.
As for the tracking mentioned in the message, this is wishful thinking. If anyone has firsthand knowledge otherwise, let me know. None the less we should do what is important to do, for today.
Please read and forward to as many people as you can. You'll understand after reading this.
To My Child (don't delete ~ its being tracked)
Be sure and read to the bottom portion.....
Just for this morning, I am going to smile when I see your face and laugh when I feel like crying.
Just for this morning, I will let you choose what you want to wear, and smile and say how perfect it is.
Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you up and take you to the park to play.
Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.
Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles..
Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not eve! n a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck, and I will buy you one if he comes by.
Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.
Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.
Just for this afternoon, I will take us to McDonald's and buy us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys..
Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you!
Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.
Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.
Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows.
Just for this evening when I run my finger through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.
I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore.
And when I kiss you good night I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask him for nothing, except one more day......! ........
Hi. I am a 29 year old father. Me and my wife have had a wonderful life together. God blessed us with a child too. Our daughter's name is Rachel, and she is 10 years old. Not long ago did the doctors detected brain cancer in her little body. There is only one way to save her and that is an operation. Sadly we don't have the money for the operation. AOL and Zdnet have agreed to help us. The only way they can help is this:
If you send this email to other people, AOL will track this email and count how many people get it. Every person that opens this email and sends it to at least 3 people will give us 32c. Please help us. George Arlington
As for the tracking mentioned in the message, this is wishful thinking. If anyone has firsthand knowledge otherwise, let me know. None the less we should do what is important to do, for today.
Please read and forward to as many people as you can. You'll understand after reading this.
To My Child (don't delete ~ its being tracked)
Be sure and read to the bottom portion.....
Just for this morning, I am going to smile when I see your face and laugh when I feel like crying.
Just for this morning, I will let you choose what you want to wear, and smile and say how perfect it is.
Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you up and take you to the park to play.
Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.
Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles..
Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not eve! n a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck, and I will buy you one if he comes by.
Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.
Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.
Just for this afternoon, I will take us to McDonald's and buy us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys..
Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you!
Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.
Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.
Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows.
Just for this evening when I run my finger through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.
I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore.
And when I kiss you good night I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask him for nothing, except one more day......! ........
Hi. I am a 29 year old father. Me and my wife have had a wonderful life together. God blessed us with a child too. Our daughter's name is Rachel, and she is 10 years old. Not long ago did the doctors detected brain cancer in her little body. There is only one way to save her and that is an operation. Sadly we don't have the money for the operation. AOL and Zdnet have agreed to help us. The only way they can help is this:
If you send this email to other people, AOL will track this email and count how many people get it. Every person that opens this email and sends it to at least 3 people will give us 32c. Please help us. George Arlington
Beliefnet.com -- Confessions of a talented--and tired--telephone psychic.
Beliefnet.com -- Today's Inspiration Reading: "Bells Are Ringing!
What really goes on behind a psychic hotline? Confessions of a talented--and tired--telephone psychic.
By Dougall Fraser
Everything that a struggling 20-year-old psychic could do, I did. I read at a psychic fair at a women's university while religious protestors waved signs out front. I read at bookstores and coffeehouses. Around this time—in the late 1990s—psychic phone lines were tremendously popular... It was my dream to work on a psychic hotline. It seemed too good to be true—I could work from home and do what I loved. I was hearing at the psychic fairs that some people were making $2,000 or $3,000 a month working psychic lines, plus bonuses. That was big money to me."
This article confirms what we know to be true - you cannot worship God and money. It was interesting that the author was sincere about his psychic abilities. I do not find redemption within myself. God knows what he knows and gives me everything I need.
What really goes on behind a psychic hotline? Confessions of a talented--and tired--telephone psychic.
By Dougall Fraser
Everything that a struggling 20-year-old psychic could do, I did. I read at a psychic fair at a women's university while religious protestors waved signs out front. I read at bookstores and coffeehouses. Around this time—in the late 1990s—psychic phone lines were tremendously popular... It was my dream to work on a psychic hotline. It seemed too good to be true—I could work from home and do what I loved. I was hearing at the psychic fairs that some people were making $2,000 or $3,000 a month working psychic lines, plus bonuses. That was big money to me."
This article confirms what we know to be true - you cannot worship God and money. It was interesting that the author was sincere about his psychic abilities. I do not find redemption within myself. God knows what he knows and gives me everything I need.
Monday, May 23, 2005
Orson Scott Card on Star Wars and Revenge of the Sith Jedi religion faith force -- Beliefnet.com
Orson Scott Card on Star Wars and Revenge of the Sith Jedi religion faith force -- Beliefnet.com
The article has some important points:
1. George Lucas should stay out of religion, although he can tell a good story.
2. There is no room for evil in my God - and no excuse for it in anyone else's.
3. One should know the whole story before weighing judgement.
Here is an analogy - Jesus was tempted by Satan, much like Anakin and the dark side. Jesus never saw evil as an option in his mission, even though temptation was convincing. Anakin saw evil as a way to save his love... however, the evil consumed him entire.
I'll stick with Jesus, thank you.
The article has some important points:
1. George Lucas should stay out of religion, although he can tell a good story.
2. There is no room for evil in my God - and no excuse for it in anyone else's.
3. One should know the whole story before weighing judgement.
Here is an analogy - Jesus was tempted by Satan, much like Anakin and the dark side. Jesus never saw evil as an option in his mission, even though temptation was convincing. Anakin saw evil as a way to save his love... however, the evil consumed him entire.
I'll stick with Jesus, thank you.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Giuliani Pressured to Abandon Loyola Speech
Giuliani Pressured to Abandon Loyola Speech
Generally I like Rudy. He was a rock on 9/11. But when it comes to the successor of the Rock(Peter) in the person of Benedict XVI, I 'd sooner lean on him.
A place like Loyola should keep it's Catholic identity as one of it's crown jewels, the type of jewel that is today scorned or even thrown before pigs. So, stand up for life.
And if Rudy really thought about it, as he stood for those lives on 9/11 he would stand for the babies too.
Generally I like Rudy. He was a rock on 9/11. But when it comes to the successor of the Rock(Peter) in the person of Benedict XVI, I 'd sooner lean on him.
A place like Loyola should keep it's Catholic identity as one of it's crown jewels, the type of jewel that is today scorned or even thrown before pigs. So, stand up for life.
And if Rudy really thought about it, as he stood for those lives on 9/11 he would stand for the babies too.
Thursday, May 19, 2005
ZENIT News Agency--Terri Schiavo's Parents Greet Pope
The following article keeps Teri in our thoughts:
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, You gift us each day with Faith Hope Love and Life, given to us unconditionally. Have mercy on your people who consider the Law of the Land above your law. Grant to us your people a conformance of our law to your law so that we may bring ourselves to live in your heavenly kingdom, as we profess daily when we prayer "Your Kingdom Come...".
Thank you for the gift of your Pope and his continued promotion of the culture of Life. Thank you for the ultimate sacrafice of Jesus, without whom there would be no hope of everlasting life. Thank you for the gift of voice to pray to you and the gift of grace which allows me to bring my prayer before you. I offer my prayers and thanks through Jesus your son, anbd the prompting of teh Holy Spirit.
ZENIT News Agency--The World Seen from Rome
Terri Schiavo's Parents Greet Pope
VATICAN CITY, MAY 18, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI greeted the parents of Terri Schiavo, the American woman who died as a result of a court decision to remove her feeding tube.
At the end of today's general audience, held in St. Peter's square, the Holy Father greeted Bob and Mary Schindler, who showed him a photograph of their daughter.
The Schindlers, who were among the 25,000 pilgrims attending the audience, arrived in Rome with members of the recently created association "Missionaries of the Gospel of Life," founded by Father Frank Pavone.
Terri Schiavo's parents visited Cardinal Renato Martino, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, on Tuesday, to thank him for speaking out in favor of Terri's life during the legal battle.
At the end of the audience, the Pope also personally greeted the sick and handicapped in wheelchairs.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, You gift us each day with Faith Hope Love and Life, given to us unconditionally. Have mercy on your people who consider the Law of the Land above your law. Grant to us your people a conformance of our law to your law so that we may bring ourselves to live in your heavenly kingdom, as we profess daily when we prayer "Your Kingdom Come...".
Thank you for the gift of your Pope and his continued promotion of the culture of Life. Thank you for the ultimate sacrafice of Jesus, without whom there would be no hope of everlasting life. Thank you for the gift of voice to pray to you and the gift of grace which allows me to bring my prayer before you. I offer my prayers and thanks through Jesus your son, anbd the prompting of teh Holy Spirit.
ZENIT News Agency--The World Seen from Rome
Terri Schiavo's Parents Greet Pope
VATICAN CITY, MAY 18, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI greeted the parents of Terri Schiavo, the American woman who died as a result of a court decision to remove her feeding tube.
At the end of today's general audience, held in St. Peter's square, the Holy Father greeted Bob and Mary Schindler, who showed him a photograph of their daughter.
The Schindlers, who were among the 25,000 pilgrims attending the audience, arrived in Rome with members of the recently created association "Missionaries of the Gospel of Life," founded by Father Frank Pavone.
Terri Schiavo's parents visited Cardinal Renato Martino, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, on Tuesday, to thank him for speaking out in favor of Terri's life during the legal battle.
At the end of the audience, the Pope also personally greeted the sick and handicapped in wheelchairs.
CSI Forensic Science Quest Pictures of Jesus Shroud of Turin
CSI Forensic Science Quest Pictures of Jesus Shroud of Turin
Guess what! The picture on the shroud are much older than medieval.
I will most likely be returning to this subject again, but I happen to believe that the shroud is authentic. If it is not authentic, then my faith is not shaken because God infuses our physical world with reminders of him, predominantly natural signs. The occasional sign that goes beyond nature (super-natural) is a sign that God is still in charge around here.
Guess what! The picture on the shroud are much older than medieval.
I will most likely be returning to this subject again, but I happen to believe that the shroud is authentic. If it is not authentic, then my faith is not shaken because God infuses our physical world with reminders of him, predominantly natural signs. The occasional sign that goes beyond nature (super-natural) is a sign that God is still in charge around here.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
The Connecticut Post Online - Preschool expulsion rate alarming
The Connecticut Post Online - News: "Preschool expulsion rate alarming
1st study shows troublesome data, especially in state"
What does something like this tell us?
1. Maybe we should liet the 3 and 4 year olds be kids.
2. If we insist on 3 and 4 year olds behaving more maturely then we need to have someone who will change their behavior on their case.
3. Parents shouln't be so anxious to push their toddlers away. If there are talents to be cultivated, the parent should have an active role in that - not the dumping off of a kid somewhere but having a hand in teh budding talent.
4. Preschool is what it is and shouldn't take itself too seriously. So what if the 4 year old can't do precalculus?
5. If they are expelled now, what is next? Expelling a child from school does what, exactly? One can't be expelled from life!
A little patience love and guidance. After all, Jesus said let the little children come unto me. He didn't say the well behaved children, the quiet children, the happy children. Just the children, in all the flavors available.
1st study shows troublesome data, especially in state"
What does something like this tell us?
1. Maybe we should liet the 3 and 4 year olds be kids.
2. If we insist on 3 and 4 year olds behaving more maturely then we need to have someone who will change their behavior on their case.
3. Parents shouln't be so anxious to push their toddlers away. If there are talents to be cultivated, the parent should have an active role in that - not the dumping off of a kid somewhere but having a hand in teh budding talent.
4. Preschool is what it is and shouldn't take itself too seriously. So what if the 4 year old can't do precalculus?
5. If they are expelled now, what is next? Expelling a child from school does what, exactly? One can't be expelled from life!
A little patience love and guidance. After all, Jesus said let the little children come unto me. He didn't say the well behaved children, the quiet children, the happy children. Just the children, in all the flavors available.
Monday, May 16, 2005
The Simple Faith of Mister Rogers author interview with Amy Hollingsworth on Beliefnet -- Beliefnet.com
The Simple Faith of Mister Rogers author interview with Amy Hollingsworth on Beliefnet -- Beliefnet.com: "He did tell me that he considered the space between the television set and the viewer holy ground, and that whatever he said or did on the show could be translated by the Holy Spirit into what the person needed to see and hear."
Hello Neghbor. Wow!
Bring this into your own life.
The actions that we all go through on a given day can be the Holy Ground where people we meet can experience God's love.
Guess what!
God does not do things with half a heart! His graces will come right back at you!
I think that God uses what he can to touch us, and that can be the simple touch of a trusted neighbor.
Sometimes he just wants to say "You are special". Sometimes he uses you to say that to someone else.
Hello Neghbor. Wow!
Bring this into your own life.
The actions that we all go through on a given day can be the Holy Ground where people we meet can experience God's love.
Guess what!
God does not do things with half a heart! His graces will come right back at you!
I think that God uses what he can to touch us, and that can be the simple touch of a trusted neighbor.
Sometimes he just wants to say "You are special". Sometimes he uses you to say that to someone else.
Friday, May 13, 2005
Prayer on the Execution of Michael Ross
Lord God of Life and Love, I come to you as a son who falls short of the example you have given us in our Lord Jesus. For as much as I have tried to hold life sacred, I have not been able to share that gift with the people who have put under the jurisdiction of our local government, many of whom claim to be your people.
You have told us, no longer an eye for an eye, yet, we demand a life for a life. You have told us to turn the other cheek, but we turn a hand of chastisement. Lord God, I ask your forgiveness on your people who have put to death this guilty man. We ask that your punishment of our sins be not recompenserate to our action here, for he was killed in the name of all of us.
I ask your mercy on all who call upon you. Everlasting life was gained through the death sentence of your Son. May no one who calls upon him be denied when there is remorse for sin.
Father forgive us and have mercy! We ask this in your Son's name from beneath His precious blood. Amen.
You have told us, no longer an eye for an eye, yet, we demand a life for a life. You have told us to turn the other cheek, but we turn a hand of chastisement. Lord God, I ask your forgiveness on your people who have put to death this guilty man. We ask that your punishment of our sins be not recompenserate to our action here, for he was killed in the name of all of us.
I ask your mercy on all who call upon you. Everlasting life was gained through the death sentence of your Son. May no one who calls upon him be denied when there is remorse for sin.
Father forgive us and have mercy! We ask this in your Son's name from beneath His precious blood. Amen.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
DARRELL SCOTT TESTIMONY
The following article was sent to me by a friend who laments a time he will never know, a time we can romanticize and wish for, kind of like a TV land rerun. 1948 will never return. The world of 1948 is gone but it is the spirit of 1948, the spirit of post war hope, which has to translate and process the surreal but true events of today.
The lesson we see before us is that we cannot turn our back on God's word. This goes beyond freedom. Freedom says we are free to live and free to die. By putting His word first, by respecting life, love and family, is the only way we will survive. It is the word of God which came long before freedom, and it was freedom to live in this word, that our fathers lived and died for. Do not forget the word and teh freedom which is it's ultimate fruit.
DARRELL SCOTT TESTIMONY
Our national leaders didn't expect this. On Thursday, Darrell Scott, the father of Rachel Scott, a victim of the Columbine High School shootings in Littleton, Colorado, was invited to address the House Judiciary Committee's subcommittee What he said to our national leaders during this special session of Congress was painfully truthful. They were not prepared for what he was to say, nor was it received well. It needs to be heard by every parent, every teacher, every politician, every sociologist, every psychologist, and every so-called expert! These courageous words spoken by Darrell Scott are powerful, penetrating, and deeply personal. There is no doubt that God sent this man as a voice crying in the wilderness. The following is a portion of the transcript:
"Since the dawn of creation there has been both good & evil in the hearts of men and women. We all contain the seeds of kindness or the seeds of violence. The death of my wonderful daughter, Rachel Joy Scott, and the deaths of that heroic teacher, and the other eleven children who died must not be in vain. Their blood cries out for answers.
"The first recorded act of violence was when Cain slew his brother Abel out in the field. The villain was not the club he used.. Neither was it the NCA, the National Club Association. The true killer was Cain, and the reason for the murder could only be found in Cain's heart.
"In the days that followed the Columbine tragedy, I was amazed at how quickly fingers began to be pointed at groups such as the NRA. I am not a member of the NRA. I am not a hunter. I do not even own a gun. I am not here to represent or defend the NRA - because I don't believe that they are responsible for my daughter's death. Therefore I do not believe that they need to be defended. If I believed they had anything to do with Rachel's murder I would be their strongest opponent.
I am here today to declare that Columbine was not just a tragedy-it was a spiritual event that should be forcing us to look at where the real blame lies! Much of the blame lies here in this room. Much of the blame lies behind the pointing fingers of the accusers themselves. "I wrote a poem just four nights ago that expresses my feelings best. This was written way before I knew I would be speaking here today:
Your laws ignore our deepest needs,
Your words are empty air.
You've stripped away our heritage,
You've outlawed simple prayer.
Now gunshots fill our classrooms,
And precious children die.
You seek for answers everywhere,
And ask the question "Why?"
You regulate restrictive laws,
Through legislative creed.
And yet you fail to understand,
That God is what we need!
"Men and women are three-part beings. We all consist of body, soul, and spirit. When we refuse to acknowledge a third part of our make-up, we create a void that allows evil, prejudice, and hatred to rush in and reek havoc. Spiritual presences were present within our educational systems for most of our nation's history. Many of our major colleges began as theological seminaries. This is a historical fact. What has happened to us as a nation? We have refused to honor God, and in so doing, we open the doors to hatred and violence. And when something as terrible as Columbine's tragedy occurs -- politicians immediately look for a scapegoat such as the NRA. They immediately seek to pass more restrictive laws that contribute to erode away our personal and private liberties. We do not need more restrictive laws. "Eric and Dylan would not have been stopped by metal detectors. No amount of gun laws can stop someone who spends months planning this type of massacre. The real villain lies within our own hearts.
"As my son Craig lay under that table in the school library and saw his two friends murdered before his very eyes-He did not hesitate to pray in school. I defy any law or politician to deny him that right! I challenge every young person in America, and around the world, to realize that on April 20, 1999, at Columbine High School prayer was brought back to our schools. Do not let the many prayers offered by those students be in vain. Dare to move into the new millennium with a sacred disregard for legislation that violates your God-given right to communicate with Him. To those of you who would point your finger at the NRA - I give to you a sincere challenge. Dare to examine your own heart before casting the first stone!
My daughter's death will not be in vain! The young people of this country will not allow that to happen!"
Do what the media did not - - let the nation hear this man's speech. Please send this out to everyone you can
The lesson we see before us is that we cannot turn our back on God's word. This goes beyond freedom. Freedom says we are free to live and free to die. By putting His word first, by respecting life, love and family, is the only way we will survive. It is the word of God which came long before freedom, and it was freedom to live in this word, that our fathers lived and died for. Do not forget the word and teh freedom which is it's ultimate fruit.
DARRELL SCOTT TESTIMONY
Our national leaders didn't expect this. On Thursday, Darrell Scott, the father of Rachel Scott, a victim of the Columbine High School shootings in Littleton, Colorado, was invited to address the House Judiciary Committee's subcommittee What he said to our national leaders during this special session of Congress was painfully truthful. They were not prepared for what he was to say, nor was it received well. It needs to be heard by every parent, every teacher, every politician, every sociologist, every psychologist, and every so-called expert! These courageous words spoken by Darrell Scott are powerful, penetrating, and deeply personal. There is no doubt that God sent this man as a voice crying in the wilderness. The following is a portion of the transcript:
"Since the dawn of creation there has been both good & evil in the hearts of men and women. We all contain the seeds of kindness or the seeds of violence. The death of my wonderful daughter, Rachel Joy Scott, and the deaths of that heroic teacher, and the other eleven children who died must not be in vain. Their blood cries out for answers.
"The first recorded act of violence was when Cain slew his brother Abel out in the field. The villain was not the club he used.. Neither was it the NCA, the National Club Association. The true killer was Cain, and the reason for the murder could only be found in Cain's heart.
"In the days that followed the Columbine tragedy, I was amazed at how quickly fingers began to be pointed at groups such as the NRA. I am not a member of the NRA. I am not a hunter. I do not even own a gun. I am not here to represent or defend the NRA - because I don't believe that they are responsible for my daughter's death. Therefore I do not believe that they need to be defended. If I believed they had anything to do with Rachel's murder I would be their strongest opponent.
I am here today to declare that Columbine was not just a tragedy-it was a spiritual event that should be forcing us to look at where the real blame lies! Much of the blame lies here in this room. Much of the blame lies behind the pointing fingers of the accusers themselves. "I wrote a poem just four nights ago that expresses my feelings best. This was written way before I knew I would be speaking here today:
Your laws ignore our deepest needs,
Your words are empty air.
You've stripped away our heritage,
You've outlawed simple prayer.
Now gunshots fill our classrooms,
And precious children die.
You seek for answers everywhere,
And ask the question "Why?"
You regulate restrictive laws,
Through legislative creed.
And yet you fail to understand,
That God is what we need!
"Men and women are three-part beings. We all consist of body, soul, and spirit. When we refuse to acknowledge a third part of our make-up, we create a void that allows evil, prejudice, and hatred to rush in and reek havoc. Spiritual presences were present within our educational systems for most of our nation's history. Many of our major colleges began as theological seminaries. This is a historical fact. What has happened to us as a nation? We have refused to honor God, and in so doing, we open the doors to hatred and violence. And when something as terrible as Columbine's tragedy occurs -- politicians immediately look for a scapegoat such as the NRA. They immediately seek to pass more restrictive laws that contribute to erode away our personal and private liberties. We do not need more restrictive laws. "Eric and Dylan would not have been stopped by metal detectors. No amount of gun laws can stop someone who spends months planning this type of massacre. The real villain lies within our own hearts.
"As my son Craig lay under that table in the school library and saw his two friends murdered before his very eyes-He did not hesitate to pray in school. I defy any law or politician to deny him that right! I challenge every young person in America, and around the world, to realize that on April 20, 1999, at Columbine High School prayer was brought back to our schools. Do not let the many prayers offered by those students be in vain. Dare to move into the new millennium with a sacred disregard for legislation that violates your God-given right to communicate with Him. To those of you who would point your finger at the NRA - I give to you a sincere challenge. Dare to examine your own heart before casting the first stone!
My daughter's death will not be in vain! The young people of this country will not allow that to happen!"
Do what the media did not - - let the nation hear this man's speech. Please send this out to everyone you can
Friday, May 06, 2005
The Teacher
What do you make?
"The Teacher"
The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life.
One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education.
He argued, 'What's a kid going to learn from someone who
decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?'
He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about
teachers: 'Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach.'
To corroborate his point he said to another guest; 'You're a
teacher, Susan. Be honest. What do you make?'
Susan, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness,
replied, 'You want to know what I make?
I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.
I make a C feel like the winner of the Congressional Medal
of Honor.
I make kids sit through 40 minutes of study hall in absolute
silence.
You want to know what I make? I make kids wonder. I
make them question. I make them criticize. I make them
apologize and mean it.
I make them write. I make them read, read, read.
I make them show all their work in math and perfect their
final drafts in English.
I make them understand that if you have the brains, and
follow your heart, if�someone ever tries to judge you by
what you make, you must pay no attention because they
just didn't learn.'
Susan paused and then continued, 'You want to know what
I make? I make a difference. What do you make?'
"The Teacher"
The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life.
One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education.
He argued, 'What's a kid going to learn from someone who
decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?'
He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about
teachers: 'Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach.'
To corroborate his point he said to another guest; 'You're a
teacher, Susan. Be honest. What do you make?'
Susan, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness,
replied, 'You want to know what I make?
I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.
I make a C feel like the winner of the Congressional Medal
of Honor.
I make kids sit through 40 minutes of study hall in absolute
silence.
You want to know what I make? I make kids wonder. I
make them question. I make them criticize. I make them
apologize and mean it.
I make them write. I make them read, read, read.
I make them show all their work in math and perfect their
final drafts in English.
I make them understand that if you have the brains, and
follow your heart, if�someone ever tries to judge you by
what you make, you must pay no attention because they
just didn't learn.'
Susan paused and then continued, 'You want to know what
I make? I make a difference. What do you make?'
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
National Day of Prayer
National Day of Prayer .::. Home
Why a National Day of Prayer? Many People have problems getting started praying or committing themselves to prayer. This day brings focus to prayer and again invites us to draw near to God through prayer.
Prayer holds an important place in my life. The answer for me has several facits:
To Dedicate the country to God. God was important to this country throughout history and neither God nor country has given up on this realationship as of yet.
To renew my commitment to prayer. Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of everlasting life. To fufill the desire the Lord has set afire in me - to make my life a prayer.
To open myself to to Spirit so that God may be present to others through me.
To convert our thinking to make every day a day of prayer. But then, shouldn't every day be a National Day of Prayer?
Why a National Day of Prayer? Many People have problems getting started praying or committing themselves to prayer. This day brings focus to prayer and again invites us to draw near to God through prayer.
Prayer holds an important place in my life. The answer for me has several facits:
To Dedicate the country to God. God was important to this country throughout history and neither God nor country has given up on this realationship as of yet.
To renew my commitment to prayer. Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of everlasting life. To fufill the desire the Lord has set afire in me - to make my life a prayer.
To open myself to to Spirit so that God may be present to others through me.
To convert our thinking to make every day a day of prayer. But then, shouldn't every day be a National Day of Prayer?
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
My Lawyer
I'm glad I've arranged for the following representation....:
After living what I felt was a "decent" life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house. The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table. As I looked around, I saw the "prosecutor." He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen.
I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him. The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes. He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room. I couldn't take my eyes off of Him. As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, "Let us begin."
The prosecutor rose and said, "My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this man belongs in hell." He proceeded to tell of lies that I
told, things that I stole, and in the past when I cheated others. Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the
more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank. I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told
of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.
As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all. I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done?
Satan finished with a fury and said, "This man belongs in hell, he is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise."
When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench. The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward.
As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty. I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.
He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, "Hi, Dad," and then He turned to address the court.
"Satan was correct in saying that this man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this man deserves to be punished."
Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, "However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and he has accepted Me as his Savior, so he is Mine."
My Lord continued with, "His name is written in the book of life and no one can snatch him from Me. Satan still does not understand yet.
This man is not to be given justice, but rather mercy."
As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said, "There is nothing else that needs to be done. I've done it all."
The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips.. "This man is free. The penalty for him has already been paid in full. Case dismissed."
As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, "I won't give up, and I will win the next one."
I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, "Have you ever lost a case?"
Christ lovingly smiled and said, "Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you,
~Paid In Full~
"Stop telling God how big your storm is. Instead, tell the storm how big your God is!"
After living what I felt was a "decent" life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house. The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table. As I looked around, I saw the "prosecutor." He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen.
I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him. The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes. He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room. I couldn't take my eyes off of Him. As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, "Let us begin."
The prosecutor rose and said, "My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this man belongs in hell." He proceeded to tell of lies that I
told, things that I stole, and in the past when I cheated others. Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the
more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank. I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told
of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.
As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all. I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done?
Satan finished with a fury and said, "This man belongs in hell, he is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise."
When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench. The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward.
As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty. I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.
He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, "Hi, Dad," and then He turned to address the court.
"Satan was correct in saying that this man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this man deserves to be punished."
Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, "However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and he has accepted Me as his Savior, so he is Mine."
My Lord continued with, "His name is written in the book of life and no one can snatch him from Me. Satan still does not understand yet.
This man is not to be given justice, but rather mercy."
As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said, "There is nothing else that needs to be done. I've done it all."
The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips.. "This man is free. The penalty for him has already been paid in full. Case dismissed."
As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, "I won't give up, and I will win the next one."
I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, "Have you ever lost a case?"
Christ lovingly smiled and said, "Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you,
~Paid In Full~
"Stop telling God how big your storm is. Instead, tell the storm how big your God is!"
Monday, May 02, 2005
The Mother's Day Clock
I bought my wife Jennie a clock for Mother's Day from ebay. It was really not a ggod transaction, and I received a pretty much broken product. Becuase of this clock however, I got to see some of the best qualities of my wife that make her such a good mom.
She is appreciates any effort to acknowlege her.
She will take good care of that which is entrusted to her care; she will make improvements if neccessary.
She integrates elements of her life into that which falls short, making it more complete.
She sees the beauty in the giver.
This clock will remind me when I see it of her love for God , for me and our children.
She is appreciates any effort to acknowlege her.
She will take good care of that which is entrusted to her care; she will make improvements if neccessary.
She integrates elements of her life into that which falls short, making it more complete.
She sees the beauty in the giver.
This clock will remind me when I see it of her love for God , for me and our children.
Novena to the Holy Spirit
Pentecost is a wonderful celebration at St. James each year. The parishioners are encouraged to wear red, representing the fire of the Spirit, and there is an altar call, which is an inviitation to receive a special anointing for the courage and stregnth to respond to that call. I had not heard about in a Catholic church before St. James.
A novena is prayed from Ascension Thursday through Pentecost and I present it here for review and to remind myself to pray it as well:
Come Holy Spirit
Awaken within me the knowlege
of what you are calling me to do
at this time of my life.
Lead me to your truth
So that I can grow
in my love for Jesus
and be of greater service
to our Father.
Holy Spirit, help me to be open to
your grace and gifts within me.
Give me the courage to allow your
power to transform me so that I
may actively seek to be the Lord's
disciple in the world. Amen
Meditate on these questions, tehn pray the novena prayer again.
Are you doing enough now?
Do you recognize the need to do more or perhaps something new, but circumstances prevent you from doing so?
Are you being called to move in a new direction?
-to enter a new ministry?
-to deepen your faith though studies?
-to confront a relationship?
-to improve the quality of your life?
May anyone who reads thes words, be transformed by them.
A novena is prayed from Ascension Thursday through Pentecost and I present it here for review and to remind myself to pray it as well:
Come Holy Spirit
Awaken within me the knowlege
of what you are calling me to do
at this time of my life.
Lead me to your truth
So that I can grow
in my love for Jesus
and be of greater service
to our Father.
Holy Spirit, help me to be open to
your grace and gifts within me.
Give me the courage to allow your
power to transform me so that I
may actively seek to be the Lord's
disciple in the world. Amen
Meditate on these questions, tehn pray the novena prayer again.
Are you doing enough now?
Do you recognize the need to do more or perhaps something new, but circumstances prevent you from doing so?
Are you being called to move in a new direction?
-to enter a new ministry?
-to deepen your faith though studies?
-to confront a relationship?
-to improve the quality of your life?
May anyone who reads thes words, be transformed by them.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Terri's Final Hours: An Eyewitness Account - by Fr. Frank Pavone
Terri's Final Hours: An Eyewitness Account - by Fr. Frank Pavone
This is a sad post. I wish I did not have to post it. However, this world is full of sadness due to the presence of sin.
Terri's story was both eclipsed by and completed by the passing of Pope John Paul 2. If not for his story, we would have heard more from pro life people like Fr. Pavone. The images presented in the above article are not easily forgotten, but against the reported peaceful passing of Terri.
She, her parents and her husband all remain in my prayers.
The lesson is in life. If you choose to ignore it it goes on. If you choose to honor it, it will go on with your own life added in the celebration. Life will give us other opportunites to laugh cry pray shout and sometimes all at the same time. Embrace life in those moments for it is in them you prove the presence of the most high in your own life.
This is a sad post. I wish I did not have to post it. However, this world is full of sadness due to the presence of sin.
Terri's story was both eclipsed by and completed by the passing of Pope John Paul 2. If not for his story, we would have heard more from pro life people like Fr. Pavone. The images presented in the above article are not easily forgotten, but against the reported peaceful passing of Terri.
She, her parents and her husband all remain in my prayers.
The lesson is in life. If you choose to ignore it it goes on. If you choose to honor it, it will go on with your own life added in the celebration. Life will give us other opportunites to laugh cry pray shout and sometimes all at the same time. Embrace life in those moments for it is in them you prove the presence of the most high in your own life.
Friday, April 29, 2005
Trading My Sorrows
Trading My Sorrows
My wife Jennie wants this song sung at her funeral. Not a bad thing to plan, actually. She reminds us through death she is giving up all the evil and the fruits of evil on this earth.
The challenge in being left behind, if that should be the case, would be to keep my eyes where I try to keep them, on the Joy of the Lord.....
My she have good health and a long life to continue to be an inspiration to me and our three boys. And may she always live in the Joy of the Lord.
My wife Jennie wants this song sung at her funeral. Not a bad thing to plan, actually. She reminds us through death she is giving up all the evil and the fruits of evil on this earth.
The challenge in being left behind, if that should be the case, would be to keep my eyes where I try to keep them, on the Joy of the Lord.....
My she have good health and a long life to continue to be an inspiration to me and our three boys. And may she always live in the Joy of the Lord.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
My Fathers Image
"He who has seen me has seen the Father"
Father Thomas Lynch, our pastor at Saint James, preached on this topic a couple of Sundays ago. The Holy Spirit has kept this phrase on my heart.
Jesus' disciple Phillip asks Jesus to show him the Father. Jesus responds that he has been with Phillip all this time and still Phillip asks...
At one point, St. Francis shed all his earthly posessions (in particular his clothing) and posts himself in front of the Bishop's residence. "No longer call me son of my earthly Father, but rather, my Fatehr who art in heaven." Francis may have been dissing his earthly Father, but he was, as typical through the actions of his life, pointing at Jesus.
My father Chester Kravitz passed away to his eternal reward December 1, 2004. He was an exceptionally kind and loving man.
His friends remember his smile. I am convinced that his smile was one of God's finest physical gifts he could have passed on to me.
Father Thomas Lynch, our pastor at Saint James, preached on this topic a couple of Sundays ago. The Holy Spirit has kept this phrase on my heart.
Jesus' disciple Phillip asks Jesus to show him the Father. Jesus responds that he has been with Phillip all this time and still Phillip asks...
At one point, St. Francis shed all his earthly posessions (in particular his clothing) and posts himself in front of the Bishop's residence. "No longer call me son of my earthly Father, but rather, my Fatehr who art in heaven." Francis may have been dissing his earthly Father, but he was, as typical through the actions of his life, pointing at Jesus.
My father Chester Kravitz passed away to his eternal reward December 1, 2004. He was an exceptionally kind and loving man.
His friends remember his smile. I am convinced that his smile was one of God's finest physical gifts he could have passed on to me.
Wired News: How Much for a Dozen Human Eggs?
Wired News: How Much for a Dozen Human Eggs?
Here is yet another reason why human dignity goes down the tubes when man, trying to be the ruler of creation, debases our nature to that of an animal species.
The article talks about changing the natural ovulation of the woman to harvest eggs, for the main purpose of cloning and stem cell research.
The rewards are great, according to science, to work with stem cells. However, the wages of this sin is death, death of the preborn, who by nature of conception has been given a chance by the creator to live a life of love.
All Life is sacred. It is in this sacredness that we follow St. Francis in his embrace of creation and his exhortation to praise our God!
Here is yet another reason why human dignity goes down the tubes when man, trying to be the ruler of creation, debases our nature to that of an animal species.
The article talks about changing the natural ovulation of the woman to harvest eggs, for the main purpose of cloning and stem cell research.
The rewards are great, according to science, to work with stem cells. However, the wages of this sin is death, death of the preborn, who by nature of conception has been given a chance by the creator to live a life of love.
All Life is sacred. It is in this sacredness that we follow St. Francis in his embrace of creation and his exhortation to praise our God!
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
St. Francis and the Walk
I have always been partial to the walk. On several levels.
Walking on earth. A live action reminder of God's creation.
Not a run. Not a drive. Just a walk.
Following Christ has bee described as a walk. He is the way.
No need to hurry. Might miss what He wants to show me.
If I close my eyes, there will be disaster. Just keep walking.
Not a run. Not a drive. Just a walk.
Nice to have some company. Our church provides saints. They are companions. They know the way. But they are not the way. And they walked. They didn't run. They didn't drive. They just walked.
I am glad to be in good company.
Walking on earth. A live action reminder of God's creation.
Not a run. Not a drive. Just a walk.
Following Christ has bee described as a walk. He is the way.
No need to hurry. Might miss what He wants to show me.
If I close my eyes, there will be disaster. Just keep walking.
Not a run. Not a drive. Just a walk.
Nice to have some company. Our church provides saints. They are companions. They know the way. But they are not the way. And they walked. They didn't run. They didn't drive. They just walked.
I am glad to be in good company.
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