Emmaus Talk

11-28-11

2011-11-27T20:18:00.002-05:00

"Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof;

only say the word and my servant will be healed."

Advent always started at my house with a calendar. It was a way for my mother to encourage good behaviour in waiting for the big day. As an adult it starts with the little blue book.

Advent (from the Latin word adventus or "coming") is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth (nativity) of Jesus at Christmas. It is also the beginning of the Western liturgical year. This year in the United States it also marks the beginning of the use of the new English translation of the Mass. It was hard for me to wait for the new words, but they will come.

2011-11-26T21:24:00.001-05:00

11-26-11

2011-11-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

"Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life'

Or Black Friday.... I was reflecting on how many people were injured today. How many had more excitement for stuff than for God? What if our churches held crowds seeking the real deal.

I am not immune from my desires. I wanted a Kindle Touch to keep a bible on and other books on spiritual direction. It came today, and I spent a hour getting it loaded. It was relaxing. No lines, no anxiety or pepper spray. I just wanted to Occupy my Kindle.

11-25-11

2011-11-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

"Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open,you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near"

I love to see the crocus. Straining to be first in recovery from the long winter. My life has been that cycle. Recovery was fragile. It took God to thrust my flowering life out of its cold grave. It had been comfortable for a great deal of time. Yet, I had to trust. I had to believe that I was worth the effort.

Now you know my winter is complete.

11-24-11 Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

And now, bless the God of all,

who has done wondrous things on earth;

Who fosters people''s growth from their mother's womb,

and fashions them according to his will!

May he grant you joy of heart

and may peace abide among you;

May his goodness toward us endure in Israel

to deliver us in our days.

11/23/11

2011-11-22T17:28:00.003-05:00

"They will seize and persecute you"

If you decide to join with Him, you might need some help. That is why the Holy Spirit was sent to earth. The Holy Spirit can strengthen us in our journey. You may also need friends. Friends on whom you can depend on. Friends that are going in the same direction.

You may face scorn, hate or even death. Are you still ready to follow Him? This is not a spectator sport.

11-22-11

2011-11-22T00:01:00.001-05:00

"I am he," and "The time has come."Do not follow them!

I admit I get pulled off into the ebb tides and whirlpools of the world. I just have to have that latest gizmo that will make my life better.

If I just spent half that effort on God's Holy Word, I would be a steward of my time, treasure and talent.

What a wonderful change that would be.

11-21-11

2011-11-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

"this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood."

I am reminded of the three legged stool and the AA symbol of the triangle and circle. We are called to service, unity and recovery. In church we talk about time, talent and treasure. Are we offering from our surplus? I am called and have been given much, now much is expected. I know I need to get busy again.

11-20-11

2011-11-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

"the lost I will seek out, the strayed I will bring back"

When I hear sad stories of kids dying alone, afraid and addicted I always say there I am but for the grace of God.

At some of these we balked. We thought we could find an easier, softer way. But we could not.

Sometimes God is not an easier path. From those who are given much, much is expected. That's why as an old timer, I need to do more. I need to do more too as a steward of my time and treasure at church. I need to become a servant. I would rather be observing and on the sidelines.

But God is telling me to buckle up and get out into the field.

11-19-11

2011-11-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

Sick with grief because his designs had failed, he took to his bed.

I read a few days ago that 26.4% of adults in the US take some type of drug for depression or anxiety. The King knew he had done Our Lord wrong. I wonder how many cases now are caused from rejecting faith or just plain non belief.

I know that dark night of the soul. But many come through it with a better view of their spiritual nature. Are we masking our need for God with pills?

11-18-11

2011-11-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

"It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer,but you have made it a den of thieves."

Christ in the temple tells us to be in prayer and avoid the excessive and worldly temptations.

I love the expression that God allows U-turns. What a change of direction I have had. Being in prayer allows me with His power to snap the chains that had bound me.

11-17-11

2011-11-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

"yet I and my sons and my kin will keep to the covenant of our fathers."

I still believe. The best day of my year is giving the gifts to the clients at a local house for the mentally ill. A few songs, some cheer and some much needed clothes give me a chance to BE Santa.

Maryalyce is the driver of that sleigh. She has worked with St. Olaf's to provide for those who might be forgotten.

The Post and Courier ran this article which raised my blood pressure and gave my righteous zeal:

On Tuesday morning, a volunteer coordinator told Cloyes his services no longer were needed.
"Because of our state affiliation, we decided not to have a Santa presence this year," Hollings spokeswoman Vicky Agnew said. Hollings is a part of the Medical University of South Carolina.
Decorations will be "more secular and respectful to all beliefs," Agnew said. "We don't want to offend a volunteer with good intentions, but we need to think of the bigger picture. People who are Muslim or Jewish or have no religious beliefs come here for treatment," she said.
Bah humbug, said Cloyes, a self- described libertarian with no religious affiliation.
"Santa is a tradition and everyone loves him," Cloyes said. "It's just something that makes people happy for a while. Kids liked it, staff liked it. People took pictures."
Santa still will visit the Children's Hospital, which has a different board of directors than Hollings, although both are MUSC facilities, spokeswoman Heather Woolwine said.
The director of the state chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union declined comment but pointed to the association's national website. It said while "some limited governmental celebrations of Christmas are not per se unconstitutional ... the burden for the government to show that its activities do not have the purpose or effect of endorsing a religious message is high."
Hollings still will have wreaths, poinsettias and garlands, Agnew said.
The decision is "not meant to be cold," she said.
Cloyes said he wonders where "political correctness and overregulation will end."
"Let's have a little joy in our lives," he said.
All I have to say is South Carolina will have lots of coal this year!

11-16-11

2011-11-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

I beg you, child, to look at the heavens and the earth and see all that is in them

What a reward awaits. When I was a child, I loved the sound of the Good Humor man's bells. If I had been good, there might be enough money in the purse to get that delightful treat.

What awaits maybe accompanied by bells, but it has no earthly price. Today. I spoke to a woman who was having a very bad year. I listened longer than normal because her story touched my heart. Please pray for Karen tonight. God is always merciful and kind.

11-15-11

2011-11-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

"was being forced to open his mouth to eat pork.But preferring a glorious death to a life of defilement,he spat out the meat"

What are you willing to eat just to get along? Here Eleazar was given a choice to eat at the sacrifice table or be killed. We meet the same choices today. Are we swallowing the deceit of the world and abandoning the Word?

Are we an example of what a Catholic looks like? Have we lost our identity?

Did you know that the Catholic practice of abstaining from meat on Friday was the reason for the creation of McDonald’s Filet-o-Fish sandwich? Because hamburger sales dropped off noticeably on Fridays, the owner of the franchise in Cincinnati introduced the new offering, and sales picked up again. Sadly, many Catholics are not aware that the Friday abstinence rule is still in effect. The post-Vatican-II modification in Church law only allowed the consumption of meat if some other sacrifice or good work was substituted in its place, such as praying the Stations of the Cross, saying extra Rosaries, or some other additional similar offering.

11-14-11

2011-11-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

"Any scrolls of the law which they found they tore up and burnt.''

I worry gravely about the future of my homeland. We are forgetting our core values. When they took prayer out of the public schools, I didn't speak because I was in parochial schools. When they took the 10 commandments off public places, I didn't cry out because they were ingrained in me. When Hollywood and television became an open sewer pipe, I said I don't ever watch that. When I see the gun running, theft of the public purse and end runs on our God given freedoms, I feel my voice is lost and awash in a flood of nonsense. I have gone down the rabbit hole. Prayer to God is my only solace and relief.

11-13-11

2011-11-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting; the woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her a reward for her labors, and let her works praise her at the city gates.

I am a blessed man. Proverbs today describes the perfect mate. I had to laugh last night as Maryalyce described her planning for next week. Each night is full of giving to others and prayer.

I told her that I made a list of 10 things that my next relationship had to hold. She was a 9.5 yet the funny thing is I would have never picked those same qualities earlier in life. And the same for her list too. God has allowed us to be and listen to His will and plan; and that has made all the difference.

11-12-11

2011-11-12T08:27:00.003-05:00

"Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary."

In the book The Way of a Pilgrim, we see this put into practice. How do we pray without ceasing? That is the central question as we travel with a simple pilgrim on his humble journey of discovery and faith. We learn much about the narrator as we travel and share his adventures. He begins simply by stating the facts that he was by the grace of God a Christian, by his actions a great sinner and by calling a homeless wanderer. All who search will immediately understand.

His journey was becomes not only a travelogue of 19^th century Russia but more interestingly a passage to metanoia. His seeking is transformative. His heart and mind and soul completely focused upon Paul’s instruction. The author asks us to consider what would happen in our own lives if we say the Jesus Prayer. His focus is the continual yearning towards God. His is a thirst for knowledge. In his seeking perfection in prayer, he acknowledges that that would be beyond our human power. We are shortsighted.

Lord Jesus Christ have mercy on me becomes his mantra. His guide to interior prayer is explained in the words of the 25 Holy Fathers who wrote down their understanding in the Philokalia. He accepted the verbal and written guidance to find the hidden secret of interior prayer.

Mother Seton would later write on the same topic. She said “We must pray literally without ceasing - without ceasing; in every occurrence and employment of our lives. You know I mean that prayer of the heart which is independent of place or situation, or which is, rather, a habit of lifting up the heart to God, as in a constant communication with Him."

He found his answer and his bliss. So have many others who have come to Jesus with a humble attitude and simplicity of a loving heart.

This book has made me more certain that I need to do my own pilgrim trip on the Camino de Santiago. I find myself wandering and wondering how I can truly get closer in my own journey with Jesus. I suffered his loss when his books were stolen. I knew the pain and stood with him. He learned the material lesson that worldly possessions are just that, and no one can take away your inner joy and peace.

Yes, there is something on the inside working on the outside. The Jesus prayer becomes the summary of our Gospels.

11-11-11

2011-11-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

A SOLDIERS PRAYER

Brave warriors,
should fate find us in battle,
May our cause be just.
May our leaders have clear vision.
May our courage not falter.
May we be triumphant an earn victory
as we show mercy to our enemies.
May our efforts bring lasting peace.
May our sacrifice be always
appreciated by those we serve.
May we return to our loved ones unharmed.
Should we be harmed, may our wounds heal.
Should we perish in the struggle,
may God embrace us and find for us
a place in His Kingdom.

11-10-11

2011-11-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

For she is fairer than the sun and surpasses every constellation of the stars.

It has been four years since we started dating. I am blessed.

It began simply
Like a beggar; expectant
Like all joys; hopeful

It became circle
alive beginning and end
we grew inside it

Like a whirling ride
a compass that points only up
towards God and faith

A clean and fresh spot
to heal, find and allow it
and not restrain it

IT is our love

11-9-11

2011-11-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

Brothers and sisters: You are God's building.

Have we built on solid ground? Is the Lord Jesus the foundation or storm shutters?

I have had many castles in the sand wash and then fade away. I put my trust in my own designs and no matter what they fell.

Maryalyce is rightfully proud of her home. It is a home built on a strong spiritual foundation. She also knows that hope and happiness is an inside job. Inside her is the Spirit. I so admire her abilities to love those often neglected by society. She is a servant of the home.

And I am blessed.

11-8-11

2011-11-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

'As gold in the furnace, he proved them'

When life gets tough, we can shrink away or use the fire to purify ourselves. No one wants to bear a cross, yet it is the only way to bridge the gulfs we encounter on the journey.

Jesus had to man up in colloquial terms. We are so afraid of pain that we drug ourselves to remain asleep. We numb out God's will. It requires us to awake from our slumber.

So we step into the fire. Awake and alive in His power.

11-7-11

2011-11-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

For the Spirit of the Lord fills the world, is all-embracing, and knows what man says.

I have been listening and reading about Anthony de Mello. He sees spirituality as our waking up. The Spirit may fill the world but except in our dreams to we live with Him.

As we awake, good always happens in the world filled with Spirit. I need to change my mind (Maryalyce hopes the new one is better around the house).

"If it is peace you want, seek to change yourself, not other people. It is easier to protect your feet with slippers than to carpet the whole of the earth." Anthony de Mello

11-6-11

2011-11-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

"Resplendent and unfading is wisdom, and she is readily perceived by those who love her"

It took a long time to grasp her. I wanted her in my youth but was to immature to understand.

In my middle age, I was to caught up in other virtues and always in a rush.

When I finally found quiet time, I was allowed to finally see my quest. She was worth the wait. I am closer to God with her by my side. I want to shout out the grasped lessons but realize wisdom comes when we are really ready and open.

11-5-11

2011-11-05T21:45:00.002-04:00

"Greet one another with a holy kiss."

Look at how they love each other. This is my Aunt Mary and Uncle Bert. They have given great example to their family and friends. We too should be known by our love.

My friend Scott started this kiss of peace and friendship years ago now. I think he did it to break down my walls of ego and fear. It is his birthday in two days and I will send a card or a note, but with God's joy I look forward to seeing him.

I still kiss my boys. They sometimes might feign embarrassment but they know their father loves them unconditionally. God loves all of us in the same manner. Are we known by our love?

11-4-11

2011-11-05T21:39:00.003-04:00

"In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to boast in what pertains to God."

I am so alive and on fire. Not about anything that I may have accomplished but in the gratitude, grace and humbleness I have in God. To be a servant and to forgive quickly those who might offend me allows such great freedom.

I am no longer a prisoner of the world but a prisoner and slave to Christ. Paul was so right.

11-3-11

2011-11-03T20:49:00.004-04:00

So then each of us shall give an account of himself to God.

The worlds population is now 7 billion people. That's a lot of stories and accounting. I love to talk to other people and listen for their story. Each of us has a story to tell. Many never take the time to listen with our ear buds in and focus on the external noise.

Yet, we are all affected in our small pool of life. I thank each person who has been a ripple in my journey. They have propelled me and changed my direction; some for better or worse. I hope God will find me worthy.

11/2/11

2011-11-02T22:12:00.000-04:00

The purpose of life is a life of purpose.

I thought I had this all worked out. God keeps interrupting my grand plans. If people would only act like I wanted them too.

The LORD is my light and my salvation;
whom should I fear?

I hate falling down. Even though my greatest leaps forward have been after falling on my butt, it was falling on my knees that took away the fear.

11/1/11 Back to the Future

2011-11-01T22:26:00.005-04:00

I'm back.

I have been learning to skate again.

I was mad at people, places and things; and God. Under my own power, my legs kept coming out from me. I had little balance.

I wanted to argue with God. I was drawn to the many times in the Old Testament when men grappled with God. Rather than seeking an answer, I was determined to have it my way. God does not run a Burger King,

I kept crashing into the boards. I want to skate and stop and go like I used too. I am tired of all these drills and lessons. Lord, I really don't need this.

Finally humbled, I asked for His strength and protection.

I would like to think, I will not fall again. I know that life will hit me into the boards. Now I know what a Comforter truly is.

2011-10-23T19:53:00.001-04:00

Never Forget

2011-09-10T21:11:00.002-04:00

8-28-11 Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

"You duped me, O LORD"

I was crippled by my own wants and desires and passions; and you let me proceed like a filled balloon suddenly released to zip about, go randomly and finally crumple on the floor, in a place I never wanted to be.

You prepared me for something so big that I never stood a chance from your relentless chase. Your own Blessed Mother kept up the pressure.

I thought that this return would be easy. Like the prodigal son I could return to my former position. You knew better. Every pain and hurt was turned into a passion. Yes, you duped me and I am humbled.

8-27-11

2011-08-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

"aspire to live a tranquil life, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your own hands"

This is the life I seek today. The days of strife and pain are behind us. We seek comfort in the arms of a caring partner. We seek not to condemn but to be an example. See how they love one another.

Work takes on new meaning when we are in service to others. Are we caring and loving to all? Does a kind word really blunt a evil word?

I can lie down in peace, in a verdant meadow inside any storm that may try to separate us.

8-26-11 Friday of the Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Light dawns for the just; and gladness, for the upright of heart."

I was a child of the dark. Growing up in an alcoholic home, I learned to stay out of the way and remain hidden. It was the best way to remain safe.

Gladness was a rare commodity. Life had a few beautiful moments but seemed to quickly withdraw like a tide. It was always twilight.

I laugh easier now. I no longer fear the light. God has provided me the full measure of grace sufficient to open my eyes and celebrate His goodness.

8-25-11 Thursday of the Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Jesus said to his disciples:"Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come."

Awaken from your slumber. Keep your eye on the ball too.

Virginia got a awake up call last Tuesday. I know many prayers rose up from earth starting, God it's been awhile since we talked last. We need to open that dialogue daily, I just read where clergy were disinvited from the memorial service at ground zero. Nothing surprises me anymore. This is holy ground and it will be filled with political hacks making a photo op. I am sick of this PC world.

Pray for our nation and our leaders.

8-24-11

2011-08-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

"He took me in spirit to a great, high mountain and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God. It gleamed with the splendor of God. Its radiance was like that of a precious stone, like jasper, clear as crystal."

What a day this will be. Richmond had an earthquake today, and my first reaction was to look for the prayer warriors. They were all still here. Whew, not left behind. Then a quick look towards DC for a flash. After the roll subsided, I knew that we had been witness to a marvel of nature.

If this took my breath away, what will the splendor of Our Lord bring?

8-23-11

2011-08-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

"But as we were judged worthy by God to be entrusted with the Gospel, that is how we speak, not as trying to please men, but rather God, who judges our hearts."

How and why I became worthy to even enter into the Word and Sacraments is beyond human understanding. I feel so humble just to speak to the Lord. Yet, it seems as inevitable as a river flows to a humbler place downhill, that I could be a part entrusted to give this precious water to the world.

How I do and complete my task is not a matter of mans approval but of the sincere urging, following and listening to the Spirit. Will it be well done faithful servant? I remember my trips to the Grand Canyon and the amazement of how a river could wear away rock. I hope for those I meet or get to know, that I am that river helping in His plan to wear away on hearts of stone.

8-22-11

2011-08-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

"We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ"

I missed so many friends last Friday. These men and sister worked hard to be in formation for a Cursillo weekend. Sunday, I met with the next women's team and their husbands. Present were men and women that I have prayed for and seeing their love of God, renews my hope.

This is not a sprint.

It is not a spectator sport.

8-21-11 Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

"I will fix him like a peg in a sure spot"

God has the grace to touch us; to take that square peg and mold them into the round hole. Many resist the call and fight the change. I did.

I find Him setting me in that sure spot. Fixing me to bloom where He plants me, and not where I would choose. No shady places for me. It's His full Sonlight.

When I used to walk into a room, I would see all those square pegs wandering about. Today, I see the master carpenter doing His work.

8-20-11

2011-08-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

This is the hardest lesson of youth. It is difficult for many adults as well. We live in a dog-eat-dog world. It seems like the winners are the stars.

It is an invaluable lesson that to become filled, one must empty themselves. Honest gratitude of what graces we have been given allows us to shine in the darkness.

8-19-11

2011-08-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Happy those whose help is Jacob's God, whose hope is in the LORD, their God"

Not much joy in DC lately. So many have a hard time in trusting their own government, or their financial situation. They look to the world for solutions and only hear the drumbeat of fear.

They can give lip service to this great higher power but do they have the real deal in a crisis? Are we to look to God or the state for our happiness or hope?

I know who has bought me for a dear price.

8-18-11 Thursday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Many are invited, but few are chosen.”

When I applied for my current job well over 600 folks applied. When I received the call for my interview, I was filled with joy. It had been a tough period. When I was told to report on the 24th, cheers could be heard around the lake.

I wonder how many saw the ad and never bothered to apply? The same goes for Christ. Too many other things to do? When you receive a call from God, are you filled with happiness and joy or apprehension? Have you been through a tough period and lost faith?

Winston Churchill once remarked "that when you are going through hell, keep going". Now that is wisdom.

8-17-11 Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what is yours and go."

I always have to look at this verse and find a way to appreciate God's grace and gratitude. I have been faithful longer, so I should get more? I am very glad God took me back when He did.

I would have expected more than I had been promised. I have always had that streak until I fully understood this parable. Some peoples needs will always be greater or less than mine. To be selfish would hinder my spiritual growth. I know what brings me joy. It is not things but my love of God and neighbor.

8-16-11 uesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

“For men this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.”

I have several close friends who can never see the beauty of this promise made to man. They see life in a narrow focus of despair and depression. For them love is lost. What brought this to mind was an article I had just read.

In this Aug. 14, 2011 photo, Israelis participate in a speed dating event on the eve of Tu Be'Av, the Jewish holiday of love, in Zedekiah's Cave, also known as Solomon's Quarries, under Jerusalem's Old City. Hoping the exotic setting would provide a conducive backdrop for romance, organizers brought 70 Israeli singles to the subterranean quarry late Sunday for the unique speed-dating marathon to mark the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Av, the Jewish holiday of love. (AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner)

What a beautiful idea. And I thought we had this wrapped up in Valentine's Day. Well, I hoped they found what they are looking for. Love is a treasure.

8-15-11 Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2011-08-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Blessed are you among women,and blessed is the fruit of your womb."

I had been in the deep end of the pool and knew I was about to drown. Every time my journey took me away from Christ, there she was. It was uncanny how many times she was there.

Even as I feinted indifference, I was pulled into her blessed graces and embrace. As I child I had prayed to her for protection from an abusive drunk. She found a way to keep me away from physical violence.

She has awakened me from slumber and pointed the way back home. For her grace and intercessions I am grateful and humbled.

8-14-11 Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

"For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable."

I am so blessed. I hold the gifts and my purpose as testimony that God is great.

I will begin a new facet of ministry today. Father George has asked me to lead the Eucharistic minister team for the home bound of the parish. Ingrid is retiring and finally getting some well deserved rest.

I hold each Sunday as a precious gift, now even more so in service to others. I was just asking God what He had in mind for me, I just heard His answer.

8-13-11 Saturday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray."

This is Brooklyn. She is loved. I pray for her and all my grandchildren every day. I often wonder what future awaits them. I guess I am still an optimist and expect the American dream to continue in their futures.

We need to stop the dance. I am tired off failed schools and generations without morals and character. I am tired of situational ethics. I am ready to toss the TV out the door. They are all pinheads in a room full of balloons filled with their own hot air.

8-12-11 Friday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

"I gave you a land that you had not tilled and cities that you had not built, to dwell in; you have eaten of vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant."

I was blessed in school. I was one of those kids who never studied and got grades. I never had to till or plant.

For years I sowed wild oats and weeds. I finally hit bottom and had to grow up. It's still a scary proposition. Yet, I know God's great grace and I am grateful. I am on a new journey.

Yes, my ego still tries to block God but He has an amazing way of getting me back on track.

It hurts.

8-11-11

2011-08-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?" Jesus answered, "I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times."

I remember my first few times at DivorceCare when the topic of forgiveness came up, So did the bile in my throat. I would rather fume.

Forgiveness requires three basic actions. And then continued followup;

First, we surrender our right to get even. I was sure those who had made me suffer, suffer themselves. I had to forgive and place judgement in His hands.
Second, we rediscover the humanity of our wrongdoer.
This was especially hard. I created a picture of a heart of stone in those people I needed to forgive. I made them into cartoons of evil.

Third, we wish our wrongdoer well. Could I ever pray for their success and blessings when I wanted boils and plague. Yes, not only could I but I had to; to find my own relief.
Not easy. No shortcuts. Trust in God.

8-10-11

2011-08-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly,and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully."

I can not believe the wonderful people I have had a chance to know and love. Some were planted when I was rocky soil. They were beautiful, yet I held no moisture in my harden heart.

I also held a sparing heart when I gave but only for what it could bring me. On that hard path, people scattered in the whirlwind.

And lost in the weeds of give me, give me; I was so needy I had no chance with the love of anyone.

I have abundance of people I love today. God had granted me some great friends to till and water my heart. They allowed me to flourish in their sunshine. In fertile soil, I am now trying to share with others of my abundance. I am so blessed.

8-9-11 Tuesday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-08T14:06:00.004-04:00

"Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven."

"It's hard to be humble when your so perfect in every way" goes the old country song. Pride is a huge stumbling block. We are called in life to showcase our talents. We are seeming driven to be in the spotlight. Yet, who likes to be in the company of a braggart or one who always starts every sentence with I.

Being humble is a great way to meet others. Ask of their lives and dreams instead of starting with yours. It will lead to fuller and richer relationships; with man and God.

8-8-11

2011-08-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

'Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and be no longer stiff-necked.'

This tiny verse hit me hard today. Am I covering my heart with an outer skin that prevents others from seeing what is inside?

I try to reduce the masks that I wear and be an authentic Catholic. There are times where its seems unbearable to accept anymore images or input from the world. It is an overload. I stiffen my neck to keep it from swaying under the worlds pressure.

With God, I can be myself. Even if my heart has been wounded, He is still the great physician.

Ragged Edges

Out of the frayed and tattered,
you cautiously approached the jagged
the remaining quantity of flesh.
Tender and gentle was your touch

You reached out to me

further with Your touch
and searched my heart
to spark the remains again.

I had wanted to run, cut out.
Fearful that it would echo my past
and take away what was still left
leave me again in critical condition.

The calcified pains, the abstruse hurt
you removed piece by piece,
and replaced them with Your tenderness.
Resolute to jump start that pump.

With your soft whispers I grow stronger,
I am diving deeply into your pool
Finding comfort, solace and joy unmatched
I never believed would exist in this barren spot.

Smoothing the ragged edges

And opening my heart

8-7-11 Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

"there was a tiny whispering sound"

I always expected God to have a big production when He wanted to talk to me. My ego could never hear the whisper.

I was bound and determined to live my life like a speed boat. Twin Merc's making a big wake. I later learned that my best times were sailing in the calm seas.

God was always there but my ears were deafened by the background noise in my own head. Until I learned to be quiet and really listen, I missed His voice.

Now I hear.

8-6-11

2011-08-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

"as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts."

How many of us erect forts and load the cannons in our darkness. We fear what we do not know. Our lamps are dark in the fear of the night. The world has extinguished our fire.

Do I have that morning star rising in my heart? Do I sing to God in the morning with gratitude or grumble. Is it time for light? Look to God.

8-5-11 Friday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me."

Where is your cross? Are you following Him?

Big questions to answer. I love Lent when I hear people talking about "giving up" some worldly treat. This is changing the entire mind's point of view from the world to the spirit. It is an invitation to act like Christ. No Sundays only crowd here. This is the challenge and change of our lives.

Are we up to it?

8-4-11

2011-08-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

“Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.”

Jesus had a mission. Even His best friend tried to stand in His way with his earthly thinking.

Do we ever stand in the way of others on their mission? Christ conquered death so that we may have life everlasting. His mission was to save us from out own thinking.

8-3-11 Wednesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

Caleb, however, to quiet the people toward Moses, said,“We ought to go up and seize the land, for we can certainly do so.”

Caleb trusted in God. While others were telling the reasons why, he was trusting in God. He knew no one could beat them if God was on their side.

Do we trust God? I mean right down to the bone trust? Even if it makes us look foolish to the world?

I know if I place my thoughts and behaviors in His hands, I will be inside His will.

8-2-11 Tuesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-08-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

"After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone."

Quiet time. We need to be alone with our love. We need time of prayer and mediation to truly know our God. It is a time of fellowship. Close the door to the world and throw open the skylight to heaven. Give Him quality time not the leftovers.

I like to begin with a verse to get to know my friend better. How better than to know and listen to His Word. Listen for direction and instruction. Journal to see where He is leading you. You will be amazed where you will travel.

8-1-11

2011-07-31T14:28:00.003-04:00

“Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”

Fear is the reverse of the coin marked false pride. I have been part of this play before, The things I feared the most, to the world I put on a front.

With a deepening spirituality, we actually outgrow fear. Much like Peter, we go boldly towards Christ. Then the world hits us like a cold slip and the wave paralyses us.

Fear is a soul sickness. Its only remedy is a deeper understanding of God. When fear grips us, Christ can release us. As we gain a deeper understanding of His presence in our small lake, we will lose the fear of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

7-31-11 Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-07-31T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Five loaves and two fish are all we have here.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me”

All we have here...yet to Christ this was more than enough. I was reflecting on gratitude last night. It seems I am in a period of friends dying. Just how grateful am I for my daily life and bread? Do I quibble over the minuscule?

I love it when Christ says "bring them here to me". I will show you one more time Terry what I can do for you and so many others.

“The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails.” – William Arthur Ward

Is it time for us to take a different tack?

7-30-11 Saturday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

"The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present,he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison."

John died because of a spoken word and oath. I wondered how often I too had misspoken. How my words had hurt others. Was I not as guilty as Herod?

So many times I wished I could have recalled my spoken words. I exiled myself to the desert due to my speech. I wonder how I ever found life again? Jesus was there waiting and looking for His lost sheep.

7-29-11

2011-07-29T21:06:00.003-04:00

"There shall be no strange god among you nor shall you worship any alien god. I, the LORD, am your God who led you forth from the land of Egypt."

What will lead us out of our wilderness? As we go forth we will need study, piety and action. We have so many false idols today. The news gloried the death of a wasted degenerate for a week but no outpouring of press or grief for the soldiers that died last week.

Could Bishop Sheen appear on network TV these days? Would he even want to? I have not been to a movie in years. I watch TV in brief spurts; it's all I can stand. I used to respect Congress, now I say take a phone book from any city and pick anyone to be the replacement for these chattering heads looking through the looking glass.

I am tired.

John Adams

2011-07-28T16:29:00.002-04:00

ADAMS, John F., 81, longtime resident of Richmond, departed this life Monday, July 25, 2011. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 53 years, Colleen; and his four children, Cynthia Losen (James), Elizabeth Jordan (Sam), Mary Ellen DeLong (Greg), and Mark; seven grandchildren, Paige, Sarah, Cal and Rebecca, Christopher, Stephanie and Jessica; and three great-grandchildren. John was a U.S. Army veteran, and was a manager with the Delaware and Hudson Railroad for many years. He enjoyed working at Macy's department store in his retirement years. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and had a special connection with children of all ages. He taught CCD with St. Mary's Parish for many years when his children were young and enjoyed singing in the choir in his later years. He also enjoyed volunteer work at Richmond Hill and Catholic Charities over the years. A memorial Mass will be held on Thursday evening, July 28, at 7 p.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Gayton Road, with a reception to follow. Donations may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church.

It leaves out what a fine man and guide he had been for so many. Years teaching CCD and then singing in the choir. John never missed an opportunity to tell me about his wife and family. His life gives witness to preaching the gospel with your life.

7-28-11 Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

“The Kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea,which collects fish of every kind.When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets. What is bad they throw away."

Lake George was where I caught my first fish. It was a large sunfish and I had thought that I had caught a great prize and dinner. I was heartbroken when my fish was unceremoniously tossed back into the lake by my grandfather. It was great sport but not a bass or a perch. Over the years I have tossed many fish back. I really never knew what would be on the other end. Before my Lord will I be a carp or a rainbow trout?

7-27-11 Wednesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Again, the Kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.”

What happens when the pearl turns out to be not so good. I have a real hollow feeling today. The Cursillo weekend was canceled for the lack of candidates.

How many miles did I drive? How did I miss my grand kids to be there on my Sunday off? How much time and effort for a project that never comes to fruition? So today, I am frustrated with God? I am frustrated with the community too.

What a small thing my rant is when compared to the life changing events of the world. Yet, I want to grasp a why.

I will be better, but for right now I will hangout in my cave and ponder. I know each and every dark night has a dawn. But it's midnight and it is moonless and dawn seems a long way off.

Soldiers Deck of Cards

2011-07-26T11:08:00.002-04:00

A bunch of soldiers went to Church. After the Chaplain had read the prayer, the soldiers were ordered to open up their bibles.

Those who had a prayer book took them out, but this one boy had only a deck of cards, and so he spread them out. The Sergeant saw the cards and said, "Soldier put away those cards." After the service was over, the soldier was taken prisoner.

The Marshall said, "Sergeant, why have you brought the man here?" "For playing cards in church, Sir." "And what have you got to say for yourself, son?" "Much, Sir." Replied the soldier. The Marshall said, "I hope so, for if not I shall punish you more than any man was ever punished."

The soldier said, "Sir, I've been in the field for about six days, I had neither Bible nor prayer book, but I hope to satisfy you, Sir, with the purity of my intentions."

With that, the boy started his story:

You see Sir, when I look at the "ACE", it reminds me that there is but one God.

And the "DEUCE" reminds me that the Bible is divided into two parts; The Old and the New Testaments;
And when I see the "TREY", I think of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost;
And when I see the "FOUR", I think of the four Evangelists who preached the Gospel. There was Matthew, Mark, Luke and John;

And when I see the "FIVE", it reminds me of the five wise virgins who trimmed their lamps. There were ten of them, five were wise and were saved. Five were foolish and were shut out;

And when I see the "SIX", it reminds me that in six days, God made this great heaven and earth;
When I see the "SEVEN", it reminds me that on the seventh day, God rested from His great work;
And when I see the "EIGHT", I think of the eight righteous persons God saved when He destroyed this earth. There was Noah, his wife, their three sons and their wives;

And when I see the "NINE", I think of the lepers our Savior cleansed. And nine out of the ten didn't even thank Him.

When I see the "TEN", I think of the Ten Commandments God handed down to Moses on a table of stone;
When I see the "KING", it reminds me that there is but one King of Heaven, God Almighty;
And when I see the "QUEEN", I think of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is Queen of Heaven;

And the "JACK" or "KNAVE" is the Devil;

When I count the number of spots on a deck of cards,
I find 365, the number of days in a year;
There's 52 cards, the number of weeks in a year;
There's 4 suits, the number of weeks in a month;
There's 12 picture cards, the number of months in a year;
There's 13 tricks, the number of weeks in a quarter;
So you see, Sir, my pack of cards serves me as a Bible, Almanac and Prayer Book.

This story derived from and song by Tex Ritter & T. Texas Tyler

7-26-11

2011-07-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

"This is indeed a stiff-necked people; yet pardon our wickedness and sins, and receive us as your own.”

America stands at the same crossroads as the people of the Covenant. Will we arise and awaken? Will we be blessed with a Moses?

We must stand on values and virtues. We must be nourished by His Word and the Living Bread. Shout out to the Lord. It's time to stand up and be counted.

7-25-11 Feast of Saint James, apostle

2011-07-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

"We hold this treasure in earthen vessels,that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us."

You are the treasure. You are that rare pearl. God's gift of life inside us flows. Knowing that God is in the left seat makes all the difference.

You are God's greatest treasure. Yes, YOU. He wants to be your friend. To walk with, and talk to and find the servants heart. If we walk in humility, we are made great. Cast your bread upon the water, and receive His abundance.

I love you too.

7-24-11 Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-07-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Give your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge your people and to distinguish right from wrong. "

What would you wish for ig God would grant you any request? Solomon asked for and was granted wisdom. He also knew he would be a servant.

I would ask for a pastor priest with an understanding heart. Father Frank Wiggins celebrates 25 years of ministry today. His heart is always seeking God and to help his community at St. James. Sometimes being a servant is tough work.

Please pray for Father Frank and all the other great pastors you have known. I am blessed to have three such men in my own home parish. They are an oasis amid the bean counters. Yes, church and Catholicism is not a spectator sport.

7-23-11 Saturday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field?

Today is Jared's birthday.

I am amazed at the love God has allowed me to share.

Three sons, all different;all so loved. Thank you God.

7-22-11

2011-07-21T21:05:00.003-04:00

"You shall not have other gods besides me."

What ever happened to wholesome? I think I would watch TV for an hour each night and then off to do homework and bed. There was no TV in every bedroom. The family would gather and enjoy a brief respite from reality.

Now everything is reality TV. But it's not my reality.I find it hard to watch even a half hour now. Really do we need Maury to tell us "You are the father". What is so lacking in our lives?

God

7-21-11 Thursday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

"But Moses led the people out of the camp to meet God,and they stationed themselves at the foot of the mountain. Mount Sinai was all wrapped in smoke, for the LORD came down upon it in fire."

Shock and awe, yet some still remained stiff necked. God has sent His fire and we still look for even more signs. Rather than looking to the mountain, we pull out microscopes to look at the grains of sand. We try to count each grain in some vane attempt to make ourselves meaningful, as God shows himself in glory to the world. Is it all as simple as Believe?

7-20-11 Wednesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Present yourselves before the LORD, for he has heard your grumbling.”

I had the wonderful chance yesterday to catch up with an old friend. Over a meal, we shared about our families and job and about spirituality. God has gifted us both with abundant grace.

Even in the grumble of daily pains or loss, we each arrived at the need for a humble servant heart. Was not our hearts and heads made of stone? Has God not led us to an abundance each day.

He always meets our needs.

7-19-11 Tuesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

"But the children of Israel had marched on dry land through the midst of the sea"

Do miracles still happen? I have seen them; touched them today. Many people seem to think they were hid in dusty bibles, they don't see because they don't believe.

I know of no greater miracle than a heart of stone turned back to God. I have seen this in my own walk. My inability to realize the many miracles I see comes from cultural blindness. When I let the Lord open my eyes, I see them like candles. As I let God open my nostrils, I smell the fragrance of salvation in the air. When He opens my ears, I hear the cacophony of love in bloom. As I receive, I taste the Living God. My hands can touch others and feel the connection with them and my savior.

Do you believe in miracles?

7-18-11 Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.”He said to them in reply,“An evil and unfaithful generation seeks a sign"

Humans have been looking for signs since our earliest days. We looked to the sun and moon or stars in the heavens. We looked to animals and idols but none satisfied the longing inside.

Today, we can look to the Son. We have a visible sign that He died and rose again. His blood washed away our failures. His body is still present here on earth in the bread and wine.

We too should be signs.

Do we reflect His love?

7-17-11

2011-07-17T00:01:00.001-04:00

"you gave your children good ground for hope that you would permit repentance for their sins."

Lord, to all those who I can not reach to make amends, please know I live in this repentance every day.

7-16-11

2011-07-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

"And in his name the Gentiles will hope."

He is the powerful and ever-living water of life. He has brought us out of bondage and given us hope.

Where I had fear and anxiety; I have hope and peace. I can stand calm in the face of the storm. Nothing can move me but inaction. I must remain walking and serving till I am called home.

I love to stand under the shower of His hope.

7-15-11

2011-07-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

"I say to you, something greater than the temple is here. If you knew what this meant, I desire mercy, not sacrifice"

What is a church? I thank God every day for the Sunday I walked into Our Lady of the Rosary in Louisburg, NC. It was the start of my journey home.

God knew exactly how to move my heart of stone. Mary met me across the globe to share her heart. I was afraid that my behaviors had been unforgivable, yet I was welcomed with open arms.

The move from the back row in the corner to the second row by the choir took a few years. Thank you family.

7-14-11 Memorial of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin

2011-07-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

“This is my name forever; this my title for all generations."

Kateri was a born into a culture that used women to further the political ends of its chiefs. She was given a rosary by her mother, and became enamored by the story of Jesus. Her baptism (Easter 1676) name of Kateri comes from the Mohawk pronunciation of Catherine. Tekakwitha means "she moves things". But it was God that moved her heart.

Her last words that were said was : "Jesus, I love you".

Tradition states that her scars from smallpox were removed and her beautiful face shined radiantly.

Jesus. I love you.

7-13-11 Wednesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground."

In my travels, I have been to many holy places and grand cathedrals. None moved me as much as my trip to Ephesus. I had the wonderful chance to visit the home where Mary lived out her final days. The day was humid and very hot, yet when I walked into the plaza, I felt serene and peaceful.

It was an amazing as the temperature dropped at least 15 degrees. As I walked into the house, I knew that I had been summoned there. This was holy ground.

She never gave up on me.

7-12-11 Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done"

Where would He start in Richmond? What about DC? New York? Our land has been blessed and now what are we facing?

I pray every night for this country and our leaders. I follow Richmond Hill, in praying for our local and state governments and counties.

It seems the watchman never gave the warning.

We need to get on our knees.

7-11-11

2011-07-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

"whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me."

So just what kept Christ attached to the cross?

It was love.

We are to show our own love in bearing the cross. We can use it as a bridge across canyons which we will come to on our journey. If we carry His love, none can ever defeat us. It's not a spectator sport.

7-10-11 Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-07-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

"so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; my word shall not return to me void, but shall do my will,achieving the end for which I sent it."

Friends are those who know that you will always be there for them, no matter what nonsense comes out sometimes.

I have often began speaking without putting the brain in gear. If I could have grabbed the words out of the air and stuffed them back where they came from, I would have done it.

Christ didn't have that problem.

My best friend from college died without me telling him I was sorry. I still regret that he didn't hear I love you brother. Don't let today pass without telling your friends that you love them all.

7-9-11 Saturday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-09T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good"

During my divorce, I kept asking what did God see as a positive outcome. It took awhile for forgiveness to return. I led a divorce care recovery group and found what God had wanted. No, He still hates divorce, but I was now called to a different mission and purpose than I ever imagined possible.

I learned what love is. And what it is not. I thank God for everything that got me here today.

7-8-11 Friday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

He answered, “Here I am.”

I was thinking today on how I might have answered this question a few years ago. Uh, God Can I get back to you on that? What a difference a change of view creates. Life is about perspective. It is serving the needs of the many. Be fed, and be satisfied, recline and enjoy the feast.

I was also thinking off Father Kolbe. In a grimly hate filled place, he was a soul of hope and sanity. Tossed into the trash furnaces, like so many before him, he lent his dignity to the others who had met or would soon meet the same death. He answered the call.

7-7-11 Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

"It was really for the sake of saving lives that God sent me here ahead of you.”

Why am I in this place? Have you ever played connect the dots. This was the famous senior staircase when I was in high school. I still have two friends, Bob and Bill who keep in touch, and now a few more on facebook.

Many life events have made me become willing. They began at birth and have followed me into maturity. I still hear from many people who have shaped me into God's plan. It is like water that cuts through rock.

Nothing in the world
is as soft and yielding as water.
Yet for dissolving the hard and inflexible,
nothing can surpass it.

The soft overcomes the hard;
the gentle overcomes the rigid.

7-6-11 Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

"Go gather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”

Levi has been my lost sheep. I have been able to keep word about him through others but direct and intimate contact has been rare.

I am hoping that his heart becomes softer as he goes through his own task of parenting. He now has a strong woman and a family that still loves him.

If indeed the Kingdom is at hand, so then is forgiveness and love.

7-5-11 Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

"At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd."

I am sorrowful for all people lost but especially those afflicted with mental illness or addiction. Many can not find a shepherd to gather them in. I respect those who sacrifice their time and lives to offer hope.

We, people of the church, need to minister to this lost flock. Much remains needed to be done in this community. They are the modern lepers, but who will be our Damien.

7-4-11 Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-07-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

"In you and your descendants all the nations of the earth shall find blessing."

IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

hen in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

— John Hancock

New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton

Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry

Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery

Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott

New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris

New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark

Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross

Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean

Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton

Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton

North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn

South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton

Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton

7-3-11 Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-07-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest."

As a child, my idea of a great respite was going to McDonald's for shakes and a burger. Aside from an occasional trip to a Chinese restaurant for take out, this was living. Pile in a car and off with a dollar in hand for a night out. Simple times.

God still makes it simple.

What ever happened to Sabbath? Why do we have to cram everything into Sunday? What happened to family dinners? I still remember the drive out to Long Island to see my cousins and Aunt Mary and Uncle Bert. Yes, we had a kid's table and no one in the family was traumatized. I played in the street and drank water from a hose. I had my complete share of scrapes, bruises and measles. We were kids and allowed to play. There was no calendar in the summer, and everyone's family looked out for each other. Simple.

7-2-11

2011-07-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

Isaac smelled the fragrance of his clothes.
With that, he blessed him saying,
“Ah, the fragrance of my son
is like the fragrance of a field
that the LORD has blessed!
I still kiss all my boys. They are forever in my heart. They are indelibly flash of my flesh. They have carved their names into my heart.

I love the smell of a field full of God's life. The smell of fresh cut pine in a majestic forest reminds me of our trips to the high country. God has blessed me greatly.

7-1-11

2011-07-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Beloved,let us love one another, because love is of God"

Why does the world hate us? Christ would answer that question with His own life. We are despised because we love. Authentic Christians are in the world but not of it. It took a long time for this to sink in.

I have been on the best blind date of my life for many years now, and it just gets better. I had no idea what was in store for me. How could this Christ ever love me? How could these holy people ever find a way to overlook all my sins and flaws and want me to join them ?

It all started being humbled.

6-27-11 Monday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-06-30T21:03:00.003-04:00

"But he still persisted:"

What an amazing friendship God had with Abraham. He would continually nag and negotiate with God for the sinners. Don't we often do the same for our families?

God protect my son, or God help them see the true path. I love the story of Monica. She met all intolerance with patience and gentleness. We all have been that wayward son at times.

Don't ever give up.

Never.

6-30-11 Thursday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-06-30T20:47:00.003-04:00

“Here I am,” he replied.

Reading about Abraham, I wonder if I am here along with him. Do I really trust in the message I hear from God on my journey?

I have a goal to walk the Camino in Spain. I am getting older each day and the arthritis takes its toll. Yet, I am trusting and have faith that when the time is right I will complete my task.

Here I am.

6-29-11

2011-06-28T17:07:00.003-04:00

I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.

This is the idea that I hold dear. I know I can not run a marathon, but I can go 10 yards, and keep following that with more 10 yards. Sooner or later, I will meet my goal. My eventual goal is heaven. What steps have I taken today to finish the race?

Keep the faith.

6-28-11

2011-06-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

“Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?”

When the storms begin, my dog Sammi heads for the safety of her owners. She shakes until the storm passes. When I am facing the storm of life, I head into His arms. I know that there will be comfort and reassurance.

I trust Him. All my hope is held by Him, I believe. Faith takes form when God is all we have. My fears are now always smaller than my faith.

6-26-11

2011-06-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

"the LORD, your God,has directed all your journeying in the desert"

When you are in the desert, you need to find someone with wilderness experience. Our Lord knew the perils of that journey. At times of dryness, we find ourselves lost and alone.

He is there. He is always present. We just get a bit disorientated. If we seek our way back to His bread and cup of life, we will thrive and survive any desert.

Look for the oasis and take rest.

6-25-11 Saturday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-06-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Is anything too marvelous for the LORD to do?"

God is so big that when we get close to Him, we tend to focus on very small things rather than the whole experience. We become blind.

So what do you see when you see God?

6-24-11

2011-06-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

"He made of me a sharp-edged sword and concealed me in the shadow of his arm. He made me a polished arrow,
in his quiver he hid me. You are my servant, he said to me, Israel, through whom I show my glory."

I was amazed at this image and how it reminds me of a cross. John the Baptist was His sharp edged sword in the desert. He completed his work and like an arrow, does not return to the bow.

John was His servant from his first leap until his death. Imagine the honor that John was bestowed. I would love to be this same person today for Christ. Nothing holds me back but my own fear. Faith the size of a mustard seed is necessary. I pray for this today.

6-23-11 Thursday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-06-23T00:01:00.001-04:00

"Then I will declare to them solemnly,‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you evildoers.’

What a condemnation. How could this be? I listened, but I never acted on these words. We are called to become doers of the Word. He wants servants not a host. Imagine going to a restaurant that had no wait staff. The entire staff saying it's not my job. What folly.

I love seeing a church that's filled with doers and servants. It has it's own energy and life. Are the same few people doing all the tasks or is it filled by the Spirit?

Please pray for the people of Minot, ND. The entire air base ,town and nearby villages are in great peril from the spring floods.

6-22-11 Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

2011-06-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

"I am your shield; I will make your reward very great.”

All my boys loved He man. He was a human super hero. He was a master of the Universe too. No wonder the kids watched the show.

Are the kids today familiar with the True Lord. A God that protects and shields us. One that gives us a place of eternal glory rather than a planet named Eternia.

So what's the reward? Fruit! How sweet it is.

Here are the 9 fruits of the Holy Spirit :
Love
Joy
Peace
Longsuffering
Kindness
Goodness
Faithfulness
Gentleness
Self-control