Thursday, February 28, 2013

Clossing of the Doors


Dear friends, I’m happy to be with you, surrounded by the beauty of creation and your well-wishes which do me such good. Thank you for your friendship, and your affection. You know this day is different for me than the preceding ones: I am no longer the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, or I will be until 8 o’clock this evening and then no more.
I am simply a pilgrim beginning the last leg of his pilgrimage on this Earth. But I would still with my heart, with my love, with my prayers, with my reflection, and with all my inner strength, like to work for the common good and the good of the church and of humanity. I feel very supported by your kindness.
Let us go forward with the Lord for the good of the church and the world. Thank you, I now wholeheartedly impart my blessing. Blessed be God Almighty, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Good night! Thank you all!” 
 ~ His Holiness Benedict XVI, Roman pontiff emeritus~
Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may the Spirit guide Mother Church.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Last Night

Last Night


   With only a few hours left of Pope Benedict's Papacy I am asking for each of us to join in Prayer and Thanksgiving for all that He has done for us and Mother Church. 

Today at 8PM Italian Time (2PM EST) the Seat of Peter will be vacant. Take some time today to reflect on what it means to be part of the Catholic Church as a whole and also for yourself as a Catholic in your personal life. It is important to remember during this time of transition to hold onto the truth and doctrine of our Faith. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may the Spirit guide the Conclave and all of us during this time.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

I will follow You

I will follow You

   On my way home tonight the song “ I will follow You” by Chris Tomlin came on and I thought how perfect for the blog. The song made me think of how well or not well am I follow Jesus and with it being just about 1/3 of the way through Lent, it is a great time to reflect. 

     How have you been doing with your Lenten goals? Did you start of strong but you kind of have been fading some? Did you fall somewhat but have gotten back on track? Lent is not over and if you have not decided on anything or have fallen short there is still time.  We are called to follow Jesus not just to Calvary but to all areas of His life. We are to follow Him as He spoke, helped, reached out, fed, clothed, listened, laughed, loved. It is more then a Lenten Journey. It is a Life Journey, a Life calling.  

      In the song there is a line that says “ If this life I lose, I will follow you”. We are to lose our chains to this world so we may follow Jesus and serve as He served, love as He loved. It is a great message to carry with us as we enter the remaining 2/3 of Lent and beyond until we are no longer here. I have included the video and lyrics below and I hope that they give you the strength to carry on with your journey with Jesus this lent and for eternity. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may we, and the church, follow Jesus. 


"I Will Follow"

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow...

All your ways are good
All your ways are sure
I will trust in you alone
Higher than my sight
High above my life
I will trust in you alone (trust in you alone)

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow you
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow you, yeah
I will follow you, yeah

Light unto the world
Light unto my life
I will live for you alone
You're the one I seek
Knowing I will find
All I need in you alone, in you alone

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow you
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve, I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow you
I will follow you, yeah

In you there's life everlasting
In you there's freedom for my soul
In you there's joy, unending joy
And I will follow

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve, I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow you
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve, I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow you, yeah
I will follow you, yeah
I will follow you, yeah
I will follow you, yeah




Monday, February 25, 2013

Prayers for Pope Benedict & Election


   

Prayers for Pope Benedict & Election


    With just a few days left of Pope Benedict Papacy I came across a prayer for Him and also for the Election of the New Pope. Please join me in prayer over the next few days for Pope Benedict and then again in prayer for our new Pope. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may we all join together as Catholic in Prayer for Pope Benedict and for the future Pope of the Catholic Church. 


Prayer for Pope Benedict


O God, true shepherd of all the faithful, look with kindness on your servant 
Pope Benedict XVI, whom you set as head and shepherd of your Church.
We give you thanks for your grace at work in him as he has led us by word and example: in his teaching, in his prayer, and in his great love. Grant him your strength in frailty, comfort in sorrow, and serenity amid the trials of this world; and guide your Church, built on therock of Peter, with the power of your Spirit as we continue on the path that leads to you. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Prayer for the Election of New Pope

O God, eternal shepherd, who govern your flock with unfailing care, grant in your boundless fatherly love a pastor for your Church who will please you by his holiness and to us show watchful care. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. 
Amen.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Fifth Station: Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus to carry His cross

Fifth Station: Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus to carry His cross


  Simon of Cyrene is forced to help Jesus to carry His cross to Calvary. Simon was just a bystander watching what was going on with Jesus. Simon did not plan on helping Jesus and becoming part of His journey. Jesus was not moving as fast as the soldiers wanted and was becoming weaker and weaker with each step. They knew He would not be able to do this Himself and longer so they pulled Simon from the crowd and forced him to help. 

    This station like the first can be seen from both persons. First being Jesus. Jesus is beaten down and tired, both physically, emotional and I wonder if spiritually as well. We know Jesus could have called on Heaven to give Him strength but He allowed another to help Him with His struggle. How good are you at asking for help when going through something? Are you able to ask someone to help with a task that you will need help with? I must admit that this I am not good at. I do not ask for help and if I am asked if I need help I will say no but Thank You for asking and continue on. I know this is not something that is a good trait in myself. If Jesus was able to accept help I also need to learn to do that as well. I must be able to humble myself as Jesus shows us all to do and ask and accept that help from others. People feel needed and wanted when we allow them to help. It shows that we trust and need them in our lives. It is not showing a weakness but a strength. 

     The second perspective is that of Simon. Simon had no intention of helping Jesus but is forced to by the soldiers. Have you watched someone who needed help and did nothing to help them? Have you given excuses so you would not have to help someone? We are all called to help others. Jesus helped those He knew and also those who He did not know. There are plenty of ways we can help others. We are able to help other by bring food and drink to those in need and bring clothes to them as well. There are many organizations that ask for our help both monetarily and physically. It is up to us to be the hands and feet of Jesus today on earth by helping others. No one will force us like they did Simon. Look around you and see what you can do to help others in need. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may you find ways to help and be helped by others. 

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Solid Week

Solid Week

  
    This week has been filled with some good, solid, Catholic teachings.It started off with Curtis Martin on Tuesday and Wednesday and then today “Catholic Men for Jesus Christ” Conference. Todays conference consisted of mass and speakers, Allen Hunt, Damon Owens and Joe Klecko. I can not express enough how all these men this week should be Googled and for you to listen and learn more about them and what they have to say about the Catholic Faith and Church.

     I am still digesting what I learned on Tuesday from Curtis Martin and I still have todays to start as well. There were many topics discussed that I will be blogging on in the weeks that come but an over whelming message from all the talks came to one point. That point is “ Remember where you come from” and “ Remember who you are”. This is not , “Remember where you were born” but “ Remember you come from One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church”. Also like the Eucharist is a central part of the church, it is also a central part of who you are as a catholic. It is important to remember this. 

      This week has brought the core of who I am out and exposed more of that “inner” Catholic to me. It never left me but was just covered up. It never really leaves us. We may forget at times the depth of our faith or where it comes from but that is why we need to go and be active in the faith so we remember. I have three more events and speakers coming up this week and as each one ends I hunger for the next one. 

 One of the great parts of Lent is that many churches put on conferences, host speakers, and host missions. Take advantage of these activities during Lent. It will help make this Lent a special time. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and look in the mirror and remind yourself who you are. 

Friday, February 22, 2013

Saint Simon

Saint Simon


Feastday: February 18

In St. Matthew's Gospel, we read of St. Simon or Simeon who is described as one of our Lord's brethren or kinsmen. His father was Cleophas, St. Joseph's brother, and his mother, according to some writers, was our Lady's sister. He would therefore be our Lord's first cousin and is supposed to have been about eight years older than He. No doubt he is one of those brethren of Christ who are  mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles as having received the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. St. Epiphanius says that when the Jews massacred St. James the Lesser, his brother Simeon upbraided them for their cruelty. The apostles and disciples afterwards met together to appoint a successor to James as bishop of Jerusalem, and they unanimously chose Simeon, who had probably assisted his brother in the government of that church. In the year 66 civil war broke out in Palestine, as a consequence of Jewish opposition to the Romans. The Christians in Jerusalem were warned of the impending destruction of the city and appear to have been divinely ordered to leave it. Accordingly that same year, before Vespasian entered Judaea, they retired with St. Simeon at their head to the other side of the Jordan, occupying a small city called Pella. After the capture and burning of Jerusalem, the Christians returned and settled among the ruins until the Emperor Hadrian afterwards entirely razed it. We are told by St. Epiphanius and by Eusebius that the church here flourished greatly, and that many Jews were converted by the miracles wrought by the saints. When Vespasian and Domitian had ordered the destruction of all who were of the race of David, St. Simeon had escaped their search; but when Trajan gave a similar injunction, he was denounced as being not only one of David's descendants, but also a Christian, and he was brought before Atticus, the Roman governor. He was condemned to death and, after being tortured, was crucified. Although he was extremely old - tradition reports him to have attained the age of 120 - Simeon endured his sufferings with a degree of fortitude which roused the admiration of Atticus himself. His feast day is February 18

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Station 4 Jesus meets His mother

Station 4 Jesus meets His mother


   At the fourth station Jesus comes face to face with His mother. The pain and anguish is shared by both of them. We see Jesus as our Savior and Messiah but Mary see’s Jesus as her Son. The pain Mary felt as she watches her son carry His cross to Calvary as He is beat and mocked by the scores of people would have been unconsolable. Mary watches and can do nothing to save her son. Jesus sees the pain in His mother’s eyes and yet is comforted by seeing her as only a mother can console her child in the times of pain and agony. 

   When we are going through those hard times and we have someone around us to comfort us makes a difference. Sometimes it is a parent, spouse, family or a friend that can help us during those times of suffering. Even just the sight of someone can have us breathe that sigh of relief. It does not mean that they can take that pain away or stop what is going on but just knowing that someone is there to listen and understands the pain keeps us going. The person there feels our pain and tries to comfort us. There doesn’t need to be a conversation but just the mere presence or a gentle touch lets us know we are not alone. If we feel that we are alone during those hard times it takes a harder and quicker toll on us. We are lost and seems like no one cares for us. 

    In the time we live in we are just about always able to make some kind of contact with people we care about. We can call, text, send an email, or drive and even fly to see those we care for. A simple text saying “ I am here for you” or “ You are in my thoughts and prayers” can make a world of difference. Just the thought that someone took that time to think and maybe pray for us can make a world of difference. We may never know how we were able to help someone when they needed it. It is better to extend your hand then think they want to be left a lone. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and drop that someone who has been on your mind today a message and tell them you care. 

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

"Should've Been Me"- Citizen Way

"Should've Been Me"- Citizen Way 


   This song “ Should’ve Been Me” by Citizen Way has been a favorite for me for sometime now. The song brings to the front of my mind something that I have thought before and I bet some of you have also thought it. That is should have been us on that cross and not Jesus. For all what we have done in this world, Jesus suffered and died for us. 

    This song also reminds us to be Thankful for all those things in our life and how we can forget what Jesus has given so we could have these things. Jesus took the shame, the scars and ultimately death for all of us. He also never gives up on us and tries over and over again to remind us that He did it all for us. It is a great song but during Lent it really drives home the message of the cross for each of us. 

     I have included the video and the lyrics below. I hope you find the songs comforting and will remind us all what Jesus did for us and how we at times need to be reminded of it. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and remember the should’ve beens in your life. 


I've read the story
I've seen the movie
I give to charity and tithe my ten percent
These I remember
But I so easily forget
All these years never heard it like this

It should've been me
It should've been us
Should've been there hanging on a cross
All of this shame
All of these scars
Should've been stains that were never washed
Why do I hide
Why do You try
Over and over and over again
I guess it just leaves me saying thank God
Leaves me saying thank God, thank God
For the should've been

I live a good life
I love a great wife
Our kids are beautiful
We got friends down the street

If I'm so thankful
Why do I easily forget
Oh that You died for all of this

When it should've been me
It should've been us
Should've been there hanging on a cross
All of this shame
All of these scars
Should've been stains that were never washed
Why do I hide
Why do You try
Over and over and over again
I guess it just leaves me saying thank God
Leaves me saying thank God

For this heart You changed
This soul You raised
My God for taking place, yeah, yeah

When it should've been me
It should've been us
Should've been there hanging on a cross
All of this shame
All of these scars
Should've been stains that were never washed

It should've been me
It should've been us
Should've been there hanging on a cross
All of this shame
All of these scars
Should've been stains that were never washed
Why do I hide
Why do You try
Over and over and over again
I guess it just leaves me saying thank God
Leaves me saying thank God

I guess it just leaves me saying thank God
For the should've been
For the should've been

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Station 3: Jesus falls for the First Time

Station 3: Jesus falls for the First Time


   Jesus, beaten and tired falls from the weight of the cross that has been placed upon Him. Jesus shows His humanity by showing His human difficulties of carrying the physical cross. Yet, the cross was more then just physically heavy but was spiritually heavy as well. 

     Have you added to the weight of the cross by turning from Jesus and following your own path? Have you tried to help Jesus by following Him and turning away from sin so not to add to the weight of the cross? 

     We all have fallen on our faith journey. It is not in the falling that defines us but it is in the getting back up, picking up our cross and following Jesus again. We are human and we will fall at times. God knew this and when Jesus came down to earth He gave us the sacrament of Reconciliation. We are able to fall and ask for forgiveness. Jesus forgives us because we are asking from a contrite heart and knows that within us we want to do better and follow Him. Think as if you are walking and trip and fall and you get up and dust yourself off but sometimes you need something more then that quick dust off. You need to use soap to get out that grass stain. No matter how much you try you will walk around with that stain till you use the soap. Jesus through reconciliation is that sin remover that we all need at times. He helps us to be able to continue on.

       If we do not get back up we are allowing sin to control our lives and also those things in life that may have us down. It is not only sins that hold us down under the cross but those things we struggle with in our lives. It may not be something that cause us to sin but maybe an illness, pain, relationships, inner struggles, etc... Each of them we carry on that cross with our sins. The great thing is that when we accept Jesus as our Savior and turn to the sacrament of reconciliation our cross does become lighter. 

      Every day we get up and carry our cross. Somedays we carry it better then others and even sometimes we fall and need the strength to get back up and carry on. It is through Jesus’ grace we are able to do this. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may you always be able to stand after a fall and remember Jesus will be there for you. 

Monday, February 18, 2013

How a Pope is Elected

How a Pope is Elected

With the state of the Papacy I felt that we all need to understand how a new Pope will be elected and I tried to find the simplest way to explain what is ahead for us all as Catholics. Please keep Mother Church in your prayers at this time. 


The Conclave
The Cardinals must take an oath when they first enter the Conclave that they will follow the rules set down by the Pope and that they will maintain absolute secrecy about the voting and deliberations. The penalty for disclosing anything about the conclave that must be kept secret is automatic excommunication.
The Cardinals all take seats around the wall of the Sistine Chapel and take a ballot paper on which is written "Eligo in summum pontificem" -- "I elect as supreme Pontiff...". They then write a name on it, fold it, and then proceed one by one to approach the altar, where a chalice stands with a paten on it. They hold up their ballot high to show that they have voted, then place it on the paten, and then slide it into the chalice. The votes are then counted by the Cardinal Camerlengo and his three assistants. Each assistant reads the name, reads the name aloud, writes it down on a tally sheet and then passes it to the next assistant. The third assistant runs a needle and thread through the centre of each ballot to join them all together. The ballots are then burned, as well as all notes made. If a new Pope has been elected, the papers are burned with chemicals (it used to be wet straw) to give white smoke. Otherwise, they give off black smoke, so that the waiting crowds, and the world, know whether their new Holy Father will soon emerge from the Sistine Chapel. On 6 April 2005, it was announced that, in addition to the white smoke, the bells of St Peter's Basilica will be rung to signal the election of the new Pope. This will avoid any doubt about whether the smoke is white or black.
Until the conclaves of 1978, each Cardinal was provided a throne and a table and a canopy (or baldachino) over their heads. Paul VI abolished the practice because, with the internationalization of the College of Cardinals, there was simply no room any more. Whereas there were only 80 electors before then, the number had risen to 120. The thrones used to be arranged in two rows, along the wall facing each other. The canopies and thrones symbolized that, during the sede vacante when there is no Pope, the Cardinals all share responsibility for the governance of the Church. To further this symbolism, once the new Pope was elected and announced the name he would use, the other Cardinals would pull on a cord and the canopy would collapse, leaving just the new Pope with his canopy aloft.
To be elected Pope, one Cardinal must receive at least two-thirds of the votes. Except that, under the new rules established by Pope John Paul II, if a certain number of ballots have taken place without any Cardinal being elected Pope, then the Cardinals may then elect by simple majority. This is an important change and may well be the most important change made. In the past, it has often been the case that a particular candidate has had solid majority support but cannot garner the required two-thirds majority, eg, because he is too conservative to satisfy the more moderate Cardinals. Therefore a compromise candidate is chosen, either an old Pope who will die soon and not do much until the next conclave (which is what was intended with John XXIII!) or someone not so hard-line wins support. The difference now will be that if, in the early ballots, one candidate has strong majority support, there is less incentive for that majority to compromise with the cardinals who are against their candidate and they simply need to sit out 30 ballots to elect their man. This may well see much more "hard-line" Popes being elected. There will also be far less incentive for the Cardinals to finish quickly as in the past. After such a long papacy, they may need time to arrive at a strong consensus on what type of papacy the Church now needs. They will also be staying in comfortable lodgings, rather than sleeping in foldaway cots in hallways and offices in the Sistine Chapel. On the other hand, the Cardinals will be reluctant for it to appear as if they are deeply divided, so there will still be an overriding desire to have a quick conclave. (No conclave in the last 200 years has lasted more than 5 days.)
The cardinals vote on the afternoon of the first day, then twice each morning and twice each afternoon. If they have not elected someone within the first three votes, then they may devote up to a day to prayer and discussion before resuming. They may do the same every seven unsuccessful votes after that.
The Cardinals are not permitted any contact with the outside world: no mobile phones, no newspapers or television, no messages or letters or signals to observers. There will be regular sweeps of all relevant areas for listening devices. The Cardinals will for the first time be able to move freely within Vatican City (eg, taking a walk in the Vatican Gardens, or walking from the Domus Sanctae Marthae to the Sistine Chapel). Workers in Vatican City continue to go about their business during the Conclave. If they run into a Cardinal, they are forbidden from speaking to him.
Habemus Papam!
Once a Cardinal has received the required number of votes, the Dean of the College of Cardinals asks him if he accepts election and by what name he wishes to be called as Pope. On giving assent, the Cardinal immediately becomes Pontifex Maximus, the Holy Roman Pontiff. In the unlikely event that the Cardinal chosen is not yet a bishop, the most senior Cardinal present (the Dean or Sub-Dean usually) immediately performs the ceremony to consecrate the new Pope as a bishop.
The Cardinals then pledge their obedience to His Holiness in turn. The Pope vests in his Pontifical clericals (white soutane and skull cap) -- the Italian family business in Rome that makes all the Papal vestments has several different sizes prepared in readiness for His Holiness, no matter what his shape or size!
The Proto-Deacon of the College of Cardinals (currently Cardinal Medina Estevez) then steps onto the main balcony of the Vatican and declares to the World: "Habemus Papam!" "We have a Pope!" and tells the waiting world who has been chosen as the new pope and the name he has decided to take as Pope. His Holiness then appears on the Balcony and delivers his Apostolic Blessing to the city of Rome and to the World.
The Pope can ask the Cardinals to remain in Conclave one last evening. Both John Paul I and John Paul II did so, and spent their first evening as Pope with the Cardinals. A suite in the Domus Sanctae Marthae is kept free for the new Pope to stay in instead of returning to the room he occupied as a voting Cardinal during the Conclave.
Within a short time of his election, before the Cardinals return home, a formal ceremony of inauguration takes place at which the woollen pallium is bestowed upon him. The choir chants "Tu es Petrus" (Thou art Peter), the words Christ spoke to Peter when He told him he was the Rock on which Jesus would build His Church and asked him to feed His sheep.
One of the few things Pope John Paul I managed to do in his short papacy was to abolish the traditional Papal Coronation, which Pope John Paul II did not resurrect. Traditionally, the Pope would be carried around St Peter's Square on the Sedia Gestatoria (the Papal Throne) and have the Papal Tiara placed on his head. These last two popes have done away with the monarchic symbolism of the papacy (including the use of the Royal "we") in favour of a heightened concentration of their role as "Servus Servorum Dei" -- Servant of the servants of God. It remains to be seen whether a future Pope restores some form of papal coronation ceremony, even if it does not involve a full return to some of the earlier monarchic rituals.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

This Man - Jeremy Camp

This Man - Jeremy Camp


  Tonights song is This Man by Jeremy Camp. Below you will find the video and lyrics. The song is asking if we would take the nails from Jesus hands and take His place? How many of us would really do it? Yes, most of us would say yes right away but how many of us would really do it if it came down to it? 

   Jesus took the cross from us and then walked to Calvary to be nailed to the cross. During these days before that walk, think about what the nails represent from your life. Those sins that held Jesus on the cross. Think of those times that instead of walking to Jesus and walking to Calvary, you turned away and Jesus continued on alone for your sins to Calvary. Jesus took our place and allowed His Blood to flow to cleanse our sins in the Lambs Blood. Would, if asked, you take His place? 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and remember what those nails represent from your life.



"This Man"

In only a moment truth 
Was seen revealed this mystery 
The crown that showed no dignity he wore 
And the king was placed for all the world 
To show disgrace but only beauty flowed from this place 

Would you take the place of this man 
Would you take the nails from his hands 
Would you take the place of this man 
Would you take the nails from his hands 

He held the weight of impurity 
The father would not see 
The reasons had finally come to be to 
Show the depth of his grace flowed with 
Every sin erased he knew that this was 
Why he came 

Would you take the place of this man 
Would you take the nails from his hands 
Would you take the place of this man 
Would you take the nails from his hands 

And we just don't know the blood and 
Water flowed and in it all 
He showes just how much he cares 
And the veil was torn so we could have 
This open door and all these things have 
Finally been complete 

Would you take the place of this man 
Would you take the nails from his hands 
Would you take the place of this man 
Would you take the nails from his hands 
From his hands 
From his hands 
From his hands 
From his hands 
From his hands



Saturday, February 16, 2013

Saint Martha

Saint Martha


Feastday: July 29
Patron of cooks

"Jesus loved Martha and Mary and Lazarus." This unique statement in John's gospel tells us of the special relationship Jesus had with Martha, her sister, and her brother.
Apparently Jesus was a frequent guest at Martha's home in Bethany, a small village two miles from Jerusalem. We read of three visits in Luke 10:38-42, John 11:1-53, and John 12:1-9.
Many of us find it easy to identify with Martha in the story Luke tells. Martha welcomes Jesus and his disciples into her home and immediately goes to work to serve them. Hospitality is paramount in the Middle East and Martha believed in its importance. Imagine her frustration when her sister Mary ignores the rule of hospitality and Martha's work in order to sit and listen to Jesus. Instead of speaking to her sister, she asks Jesus to intervene. Jesus' response is not unkind, which gives us an idea of his affection for her. He observes that Martha is worried about many things that distract her from really being present to him. He reminds her that there is only one thing that is truly important -- listening to him. And that is what Mary has done. In Martha we see ourselves -- worried and distracted by all we have to do in the world and forgetting to spend time with Jesus. It is, however, comforting to note that Jesus loved her just the same.
The next visit shows how well Martha learned this lesson. She is grieving the death of her brother with a house full of mourners when she hears that Jesus has just come to the area. She gets up immediately and leaves the guests, leaves her mourning, and goes to meet him.
Her conversation with Jesus shows her faith and courage. In this dialogue she states clearly without doubt that she believes in Jesus' power, in the resurrection, and most of all that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus tells her that he is the resurrection and the life and then goes on to raise her brother from the dead. Our final picture of Martha in Scripture is the one that sums up who she was. Jesus has returned to Bethany some time later to share a meal with his good friends. In this home were three extraordinary people. We hear how brother Lazarus caused a stir when was brought back to life. We hear how Mary causes a commotion at dinner by anointing Jesus with expensive perfume. But all we hear about Martha is the simple statement: "Martha served." She isn't in the spotlight, she doesn't do showy things, she doesn't receive spectacular miracles. She simply serves Jesus.
We know nothing more about Martha and what happened to her later. According to a totally untrustworthy legend Martha accompanied Mary to evangelize France after Pentecost.
But wouldn't it be wonderful if the most important thing that could be said about us is "They served"?
Martha is the patron saint of servants and cooks.
Until tomorrow, God Bless, and remember it is not only in serving we hear the Lord we must listen as well. 

Friday, February 15, 2013

Second Station : Jeus carries His Cross

Second Station : Jeus carries His Cross


    Jesus takes up His cross and starts the journey to Calvary. The cross represents all of our sins. It was not just the sins of those around Him at that time but the sins of us all until judgment day comes. 

     We are all called to pick up our crosses and follow Jesus on this road to salvation. In Matthew 16 : 24 “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”  Our crosses are personal to each one of us. For some it may be that your cross is health issues, marriage problems, sins, family problems, anger, pain, sorrow, etc.. There are many crosses we carry each day. I also must say that at times it feels like we are carrying more then one of them at a time.  Everyone of us carry a cross in this life and sometimes we have no idea what crosses those around us may be carrying. Keep that in mind when you are carrying your cross, that you are not the only one. 

     No matter what we are going through or what crosses we are carrying we need to follow Jesus. It is not an easy thing to do at times but call on Jesus to help you get the strength to carry on. Our faith helps us carry those crosses because we know that Jesus is there to help us and also know the gift of Salvation that was gained from the cross. Each time we continue on with the journey to Calvary we are seeking salvation. We are there on the road with Jesus. 

     Allow your Lenten journey help you gain faith, love and mercy to aid you in carrying those crosses in your life. Seek Jesus on your daily walk. Pray not only for strength but also for those around you who are carrying their crosses as well. Each one of us are called to do this and remember you are never alone on the path.

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and remember we all carry crosses in this life. 

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Station One : Jesus is Condemned


 Station One : Jesus is Condemned


   The first station is that of Jesus being brought before Pilate and He is condemned to Death. Those around Jesus left Him and did not defend Him. Those who were healed by Jesus also did not speak up. Pilate asked what “ He should do with Jesus” and the crowd replied “ Crucify Him”. Pilate then washes his hands and says the blood is not on his hands but the crowds and Jesus is condemned to death. 

     
    When I think of this station I have always seen it as a two fold reflection. One is from the point of view from Jesus and the other view is from Pilate. 

     First let us reflect on Pilate. Have you ever condemned someone without having real and factual evidence and just based your decision from hear say? Have you ever put the blame of the outcome on others so you can feel that you had no choice or no part of condemning someone? When we condemn someone without hearing the whole story or only listen to the voices of others we are acting as Pilate. Sometimes we need to block out those voices that are trying to control and dictate our decisions. Not every person around us has our best interests at heart. We need to listen to our own heart and mind. Filter out all the voice and focus on what is the truth and not the hearsay. Pilate did not know Jesus by let others dictate to him. It is almost the same as the saying “ Don’t judge a book by its cover”. We need to get to know people before we decide who they are and what they stand for. We are called not to put labels on people but allow them to show us who they are themselves. When you are faced with making decisions about people think of how Pilate handled it and remember once you condemn someone, you rarely get a second chance. 

      Now lets reflect on Jesus. Have you ever been accused of something you have not done? Have those around you turned their backs on you and left you standing alone? When others believe what people say about us, it hurts and we feel betrayed. They listened to others and did not take your own relationship into account or they judged you without knowing you. Labels are placed on us everyday and we carry them. They weigh us down and most of them are not true. Do not let others dictate who you are but be who God created you to be. When people in our lives turn away from us and leave us standing alone it hurts. The pain goes deep because there was a relationship there and now it is in question. People who really care about you will not leave you standing alone but stand by your side and walk with you in the hard times. They will even defend you and your name to others. Those people who are there are the ones that really should matter to you. When people turn their  back on you it is their loss. Sometimes the relationship can be reconciled but it is hard to forget what has gone on. When we feel we are being condemned and people have turned from us we need to turn to Jesus for He will never leave us. He will always be there to listen and hold us until we are able to stand again. We are never alone with Jesus in our hearts. 

       Jesus and Pilate are opposite sides of the same coin in this refection. Both men are being affected by those around them. Pilate allows others to rule his choice as Jesus is condemned by those who rule. At times we all have played both Men in different situations in our lives. We need to remember how it is to feel as Jesus did so we may not be like Pilate. Use this Lent to examine who you are more like. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may you judge and be judged fairly and have those who will stand by you and not turn from you. 

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Prayers Requested

Prayers Requested 



   To many Catholics today was Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. Yet to a dear friend and her family it was also the day they laid a Father, a Husband, a Grandfather, Family member and a dear Friend to rest. I ask that you keep them in prayer and the strength to find peace in the memories. 

     Tomorrow the blog will have the First Station of the Cross and a reflection. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may those who lost someone find peace. 

    

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Lent is here....

Lent is here.... 


   Well, Lent has now begun. Over the past few weeks I have discussed different aspects and ideas about Lent and how we all can make that change happen. I am all set to start Lent. My alarm is now set for that earlier time so that I will be able to do the Divine Office. This will be a challenge for me. As I say I am not a good wake up disciple of Jesus. 

    It is up to each one of us to make it a good season of Lent or a mediocre Lent. Challenge yourself and those around you. We have an added change this Lent as we will see a new Pope take the Seat of Peter so as you do your Lenten activities see the changes in your self and in the Church as a whole will be experiencing this Lent. I pray that each and everyone of us will grow closer to the Holy Trinity, the Church, and each other this Lent. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and let this Lent shine in you and through you. 

Monday, February 11, 2013

Pope Benedict XVI Resigns

Pope Benedict XVI Resigns

   Today Pope Benedict XVI surprised the world when he said that on February 28th he will resign the Seat of Peter. What does this mean to the billion of catholics? It means the Seat of Peter will be vacant until a new Pope has been voted upon. As Catholics we need to be praying that the Holy Spirit will guide the conclave of Cardinals and they will elect the right person to be Pope. 

     I heard the news this morning as I was getting to work and was shocked to hear it and I could not find out the details till after work. It was hard for me not to know what was going on and I thought months ago I probably would not even gave a second thought to it. Now, that was on my mind a few times during work. Some of the things that crossed my mind was : Why now? Why not wait till lent was over to resign or even after the Year of Faith? then turned to Who will be the next Pope? Where will he be from? How will he lead us? What will he do? Of course for now those questions will not be answered until the conclave elects the Pope. 

     I feel that we are in the time where the church as a whole is experiencing a new fire burning. It is in that earlier stage where that exhaling from the body of the church will ignite it and it will grow. We will need the right Shepard to lead that flock to that fire so the exhaling can happen. As Catholics we need to take some of those burning ambers to relight that fire within ourselves so our souls, heart and minds will burn for God, Jesus, Holy Spirit and the Church. With the right Pope this can happen. 

      I am asking that each and  everyone of us ask in prayer for the Guidance of the Holy Spirit to come to the conclave and not only lead them down the path to the right, God chosen, man that will lead our Mother Church in the days to come. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and in the days ahead my the Holy Spirit lead us and the Church to the path of Jesus, so we may come to the Gates of Heaven to see our God. 

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Around the Corner

Around the Corner



As it is written in Isaiah the prophet:  “Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way. A voice of one crying out in the desert: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord,
make straight his paths.’” ~ Mark 1: 2-3


     With Lent just around the corner I wanted to remind you and even myself on the importance of this season of the Church. We need to take these weeks to set straight our path and walk with Jesus to Calvary so we may die on the Cross so that He may be resurrected within each of us. 

    Have you decided on your Lenten program for yourself? I have mine set. I have some personal goals and others I will share with you all. I have decided to do the Divine Office each day, pray the rosary, get to different programs at the churches, and going on a silent retreat. Find things that you feel you need to do for your own personal self. The great thing with the Divine Office is that a friend told me about the app for her phone and iPad, so it will be easier to do anywhere. It will load up everything I need and I will not need to try and figure out the book. Granted I know myself and at some point I will also want the book but until then the app will do. 

      With the blog each week I will be covering the stations of the cross and also music that will reflect the Lenten ideals. Also I will include Saints just as I have been doing. Also I hope that most of the blogs will reflect some readings during Lent as well. 

     I said in “ Count down to Lent” that this is my favorite season in the Church. That is because I take Lent head on and use this time to better my spiritual life. We are in this together and I hope to hear from you all about different things that you are doing during this Lent so we can support each other as Brothers and Sisters in Christ. Use these last few days to get things ready and in order for you to have a successful and spirit filled Lent. 

Until Tomorrow, God Bless, and may you ready your way for Lent. 

Saturday, February 9, 2013

St. Valentine

St. Valentine


Feastday: February 14
Patron of Love, Young People, Happy Marriages
Died: 269

Valentine was a holy priest in Rome, who, with St. Marius and his family, assisted the martyrs in the persecution under Claudius II. He was apprehended, and sent by the emperor to the prefect of Rome, who, on finding all his promises to make him renounce his faith ineffectual, commanded him to be beaten with clubs, and afterwards, to be beheaded, which was executed on February 14, about the year 270. Pope Julius I is said to have built a church near Ponte Mole to his memory, which for a long time gave name to the gate now called Porta del Popolo, formerly, Porta Valetini. The greatest part of his relics are now in the church of St. Praxedes. His name is celebrated as that of an illustrious martyr in the sacramentary of St. Gregory, the Roman Missal of Thomasius, in the calendar of F. Fronto and that of Allatius, in Bede, Usuard, Ado, Notker and all other martyrologies on this day. To abolish the heathens lewd superstitious custom of boys drawing the names of girls, in honor of their goddess Februata Juno, on the fifteenth of this month, several zealous pastors substituted the names of saints in billets given on this day.
The Origin of St. Valentine
The origin of St. Valentine, and how many St. Valentines there were, remains a mystery. One opinion is that he was a Roman martyred for refusing to give up his Christian faith. Other historians hold that St. Valentine was a temple priest jailed for defiance during the reign of Claudius. Whoever he was, Valentine really existed because archaeologists have unearthed a Roman catacomb and an ancient church dedicated to Saint Valentine. In 496 AD Pope Gelasius marked February 14th as a celebration in honor of his martyrdom.
The first representation of Saint Valentine appeared in a The Nuremberg Chronicle, a great illustrated book printed in 1493. [Additional evidence that Valentine was a real person: archaeologists have unearthed a Roman catacomb and an ancient church dedicated to Saint Valentine.] Alongside a woodcut portrait of him, text states that Valentinus was a Roman priest martyred during the reign of Claudius the Goth [Claudius II]. Since he was caught marrying Christian couples and aiding any Christians who were being persecuted under Emperor Claudius in Rome [when helping them was considered a crime], Valentinus was arrested and imprisoned. Claudius took a liking to this prisoner -- until Valentinus made a strategic error: he tried to convert the Emperor -- whereupon this priest was condemned to death. He was beaten with clubs and stoned; when that didn't do it, he was beheaded outside the Flaminian Gate [circa 269].
Saints are not supposed to rest in peace; they're expected to keep busy: to perform miracles, to intercede. Being in jail or dead is no excuse for non-performance of the supernatural. One legend says, while awaiting his execution, Valentinus restored the sight of his jailer's blind daughter. Another legend says, on the eve of his death, he penned a farewell note to the jailer's daughter, signing it, "From your Valentine."
St. Valentine was a Priest, martyred in 269 at Rome and was buried on the Flaminian Way. He is the Patron Saint of affianced couples, bee keepers, engaged couples, epilepsy, fainting, greetings, happy marriages, love, lovers, plague, travellers, young people. He is represented in pictures with birds and roses.

Friday, February 8, 2013

Power of Words

Power of Words


     I heard this song today and thought it had a message that we all can use to hear. Words can build us up or tear us down. Think at a time when you heard a homily that set your heart a blaze and wanted to go out and teach others about Jesus. Now, think about a time that someone struck you down or put out that fire with words. It is very easy to use words to tear people down or let them feel there is no point of them to continue with their goals or dreams. 

        We are to help build the Kingdom of God and we do that but not only showing we care but also letting people know we care with words and let people know what they mean to us. Yes, the saying “ Actions speak louder then words” is true most of the times but what about when our actions show good but our words slam or bring down others. 

       One thing for Lent I plan on doing is to watch my words and help build up then bring down. Think of how your words affected people today and if it was for the good or the bad? Try and think about this each day and see where you are at the end of the week. Were more bricks used to build up or were they used as a weapon. 

       Below is the video by Hawk Nelson titled “ Words” and below the video is the lyrics. Hope you enjoy this weeks music choice. 

Until tomorrow, God Bless, and may the words come that build you up today as yours does the same for others. 



"Words"

They've made me feel like a prisoner
They've made me feel set free
They've made me feel like a criminal
Made me feel like a king

They've lifted my heart
To places I'd never been
And they've dragged me down
Back to where I began

Words can build you up
Words can break you down
Start a fire in your heart or
Put it out

Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You

You can heal the heartache
Speak over the fear
(Speak over the fear)
God, Your voice is the only thing
We need to hear
(We need to hear)

Words can build us up
Words can break us down
Start a fire in our hearts or
Put it out

Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)

Let the words I say
(Let the words I say)
Be the sound of Your grace
(Sound like Your grace)
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You

I wanna speak Your love
Not just another noise
Oh, I wanna be Your light
I wanna be Your voice

Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)

Let the words I say
(Let the words I say)
Be the sound of Your grace
(Sound like Your grace)
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)

Words can build us up
Words can break us down
Start a fire in our hearts
Or put it out

I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You