How do you react when under attack? Are you surprised? Shocked? Angry? Or, are you prepared for whatever comes your way? Spiritual warfare is raging all around us. It comes in many forms . . . some surprising, some expected. In order to overcome attacks, we must remain vigilant as to what is from heaven and what is from the enemy. It's easy to fall into the trap of feeling the victim. But if we believe what we read in the Bible, what the messages from Jesus and all of heaven tell us in the Volumes, how can we react any other way but with love, humility, and trust that God has our back? He says it in today's Gospel (Matthew 24:42-51). Be prepared for anything and everything:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into.
So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.
“Who, then, is the faithful and prudent servant, whom the master has put in charge of his household to distribute to them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on his arrival finds doing so. Amen, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is long delayed,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with drunkards, the servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish him severely and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Whispers From the Cross, she explains very clearly . . . if our eyes are diverted from Christ, we become an open door for the enemy's attack:
"Apostles, we must be more vigilant. If we have any ill feeling toward another, we must do battle with it in the presence of Jesus, who loves us all. If we do not do this hard work in our heads, the enemy will keep these feelings ‘on file’ and open them at a given time when we will then become a danger to the divine will through our bitterness. It must be said that it is shocking where the enemy can take us if we are not vigilant. It is as if we are at a train station and there are two trains. If we harbor ill will, envy, jealousy and anger, it is as if we are getting on the train that leads to darkness. We must think about this very carefully. The tracks only go in one direction and once this train leaves the station it becomes more and more difficult to get off. I think that if we were able to see where we were going by looking down the line of the railway tracks, we would immediately offer these things to the Lord for eradication and humble ourselves before Him. We do not want to resemble Cain and Abel. There is a train which goes in another direction and that leads to peace. When we covet the respect that another is given or the attention that is being paid to another then we are not reverencing what has been given to us. We then, if we get on the wrong train, will try to ‘look’ like them, stealing their identity, as it were and offering it to others falsely for the admiration we crave. This is not good modeling. To say we admire the virtues in another and strive to acquire these same virtues is wonderful. To look at the virtues of another and to admire the attention these others may get because they possess these virtues, and to then try to ‘steal’ the virtues by mimicking them but not practicing them, is diabolical in nature. We do not lovingly try to live the same goodness."
Lay apostles, I am still surprised at times by unexpected attacks . . . even expected ones I prayed wouldn't occur. The beauty of being involved in this apostolate is I am prepared for the worst. It may be surprising, but not shocking. I know with every bone in my body Jesus has a plan for me . . . for every one of us. Sometimes that plan doesn't make sense to me, but it does to Him. I know I will understand completely the day I am face to Face with Our Savior. Until then, bring it on!
Thank you, Lord, for loving and protecting me from the enemy invading my life. I don't know how people survive without You!!
God bless,
Bonnie
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Gospel Word Today: Hypocrite
The word stings when hurled viciously, stopping me for an instant. If it was used to shut me down to get their point across, I became even more passionate. The word? Hypocrite. Here is Bing.com's definition:
Somebody feigning high principles: somebody who pretends to have admirable principles, beliefs, or feelings but behaves otherwise.
Everyone who knows me understands God is #1 in my life. I am and always will be a work in progress. During the early days of my faith journey through this mission, I tried my best to live the messages of Jesus and all of heaven. Now that doesn't mean I did it perfectly. So when my passion would flare (hey, I am part Italian with some Viking thrown in!) for something I felt strongly about, some would attack with "You are a hypocrite. I thought you were a Christian." I'm going to let you all in on a little secret . . . Christians are not perfect. I will never be perfect. As Anne a lay apostle says, we are all imperfect beings. I have always tried my best to be kind, humble and loving. I look back on those moments now and know Jesus was toughening me up . . . to fight even harder for Him. He was teaching me humility and strength of character. He was leading me to a calmer, peaceful existence I never knew was possible. So always remember each of us is on a unique journey toward heaven. It may not always look the way you think it should . . . instead take a look inward and make a change in the only place you can . . . yourself.
Today's Gospel (Matthew 23:27-32) teaches us to make sure the outside = the inside:
Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You are like whitewashed tombs, which appear beautiful on the outside, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of filth. Even so, on the outside, you appear righteous, but inside you are filled with hypocrisy and evildoing.
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the memorials of the righteous, and you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have joined them in shedding the prophets’ blood.’ Thus you bear witness against yourselves that you are the children of those who murdered the prophets; now fill up what your ancestors measured out!”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Lessons in Love, she gives a good example of why we must not generalize:
"Next, perhaps the searcher will ask the Lord to reveal His presence in the soul of another person, one who loves as Jesus loves, one who seeks Christ as the searcher seeks Christ, with an open heart and in truth. These apostles are everywhere, awaiting the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Jesus will connect the one who seeks Him to holy fellowship when the time is right and persuade the searcher that while all Christians are human, all Christians are not hypocrites. This strategy for truly understanding what one is rejecting, seeks Christ in three ways: in Holy Scripture, in the Eucharist and ongoing life of the Church, and in other faithful Christians. These are good places to look for Jesus because He truly lives and ministers to us from these three places each day if we seek Him."
Lay apostles, strive to be an example of His Love and Truth. Look for the good. The human side of me sees what is going on in the world. It's so easy to be distracted by it all. But when looking through His Eyes, it is a much different view. Be the change you want to see in the world.
Thank you, Lord, for building my spiritual muscles over the last 8 years. I pray I am hearing everything You want me to hear!
God bless,
Bonnie
Somebody feigning high principles: somebody who pretends to have admirable principles, beliefs, or feelings but behaves otherwise.
Everyone who knows me understands God is #1 in my life. I am and always will be a work in progress. During the early days of my faith journey through this mission, I tried my best to live the messages of Jesus and all of heaven. Now that doesn't mean I did it perfectly. So when my passion would flare (hey, I am part Italian with some Viking thrown in!) for something I felt strongly about, some would attack with "You are a hypocrite. I thought you were a Christian." I'm going to let you all in on a little secret . . . Christians are not perfect. I will never be perfect. As Anne a lay apostle says, we are all imperfect beings. I have always tried my best to be kind, humble and loving. I look back on those moments now and know Jesus was toughening me up . . . to fight even harder for Him. He was teaching me humility and strength of character. He was leading me to a calmer, peaceful existence I never knew was possible. So always remember each of us is on a unique journey toward heaven. It may not always look the way you think it should . . . instead take a look inward and make a change in the only place you can . . . yourself.
Today's Gospel (Matthew 23:27-32) teaches us to make sure the outside = the inside:
Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You are like whitewashed tombs, which appear beautiful on the outside, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of filth. Even so, on the outside, you appear righteous, but inside you are filled with hypocrisy and evildoing.
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the memorials of the righteous, and you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have joined them in shedding the prophets’ blood.’ Thus you bear witness against yourselves that you are the children of those who murdered the prophets; now fill up what your ancestors measured out!”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Lessons in Love, she gives a good example of why we must not generalize:
"Next, perhaps the searcher will ask the Lord to reveal His presence in the soul of another person, one who loves as Jesus loves, one who seeks Christ as the searcher seeks Christ, with an open heart and in truth. These apostles are everywhere, awaiting the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Jesus will connect the one who seeks Him to holy fellowship when the time is right and persuade the searcher that while all Christians are human, all Christians are not hypocrites. This strategy for truly understanding what one is rejecting, seeks Christ in three ways: in Holy Scripture, in the Eucharist and ongoing life of the Church, and in other faithful Christians. These are good places to look for Jesus because He truly lives and ministers to us from these three places each day if we seek Him."
Lay apostles, strive to be an example of His Love and Truth. Look for the good. The human side of me sees what is going on in the world. It's so easy to be distracted by it all. But when looking through His Eyes, it is a much different view. Be the change you want to see in the world.
Thank you, Lord, for building my spiritual muscles over the last 8 years. I pray I am hearing everything You want me to hear!
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Gospel Thoughts Today: EGO-Edging God Out
Today we deal with the 'ol ego . . . the part of being human we all struggle with. I found a quote from writer Paul Sposite on www.Catholic.org about ego:
"The ego’s job is to make you feel better about yourself, and it will do what ever it needs to do to make that happen. The ego is the voice inside of you that tells you to kick them when they are down, to make others feel bad about themselves; all in the name of lifting yourself up, making you feel better about you."
We all want to feel safe, secure and loved. Seems like it should be easy to obtain, doesn't it? Especially if we try to do it right in the eyes of Christ. But in reality, the closer we get to achieving intimacy with Jesus, the brighter His Light shines from us. And the brighter His Light shines, the more we are "noticed." Sometimes those who notice us haven't yet discovered the security and graces Jesus bestows on His true followers, allowing evil to pounce on that tiny window of self-doubt . . . self-doubt which triggers the ego. I have been in the presence of people who, no matter what I say, have done it better, bigger or grander. Instead of reacting, I now try to see the ego for what it is . . . our human weakness. We must fight the temptation of making ourselves feel better by parading our strengths (real or perceived!) in order to appear better than we actually are . . . which truly places the self before God. Focus on showing God how great you really are, not your spouse, friend, acquaintance, etc. Stop "edging God out." Stop it now.
In today's Gospel (Mark 6:17-29), ego causes the death of our beloved John the Baptist:
Herod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. She had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodias’ own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king’s presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
In Volume Seven, St. Damien has some great advice about keeping your ego in check:
"Egos are difficult friends and dreadful rulers. Keep your ego on a very short leash and understand that your merit lies in your obedience to Christ. Do not take credit for what Christ does through you. He cannot entrust great missions to you if your ego swells with each success. When your work is successful, praise God. When your work fails, praise God. When the sun shines, praise God. When the rain falls, praise God. Do you get the idea? You serve Him and He will do great things through you. These great things have nothing to do with you except that you allowed heaven to use you as an instrument. Your merit in heaven will not depend on the greatness of your mission or the greatness of what Christ accomplished through you. Your merit will reflect the work you did in your soul, the policing of your ego, the honing of the virtues, the self-denial, and the love that you allowed to flow through you to other souls."
Lay apostles, do a little work on your ego today. Read the Litany of Humility, over and over. It will do wonders for that 'ol ego, I promise!
Thank you, Lord, for all the times my ego was bruised and You were there to comfort me. Please continue to give me the grace and fortitude I need to keep my mouth shut when under attack!
God bless,
Bonnie
"The ego’s job is to make you feel better about yourself, and it will do what ever it needs to do to make that happen. The ego is the voice inside of you that tells you to kick them when they are down, to make others feel bad about themselves; all in the name of lifting yourself up, making you feel better about you."
We all want to feel safe, secure and loved. Seems like it should be easy to obtain, doesn't it? Especially if we try to do it right in the eyes of Christ. But in reality, the closer we get to achieving intimacy with Jesus, the brighter His Light shines from us. And the brighter His Light shines, the more we are "noticed." Sometimes those who notice us haven't yet discovered the security and graces Jesus bestows on His true followers, allowing evil to pounce on that tiny window of self-doubt . . . self-doubt which triggers the ego. I have been in the presence of people who, no matter what I say, have done it better, bigger or grander. Instead of reacting, I now try to see the ego for what it is . . . our human weakness. We must fight the temptation of making ourselves feel better by parading our strengths (real or perceived!) in order to appear better than we actually are . . . which truly places the self before God. Focus on showing God how great you really are, not your spouse, friend, acquaintance, etc. Stop "edging God out." Stop it now.
In today's Gospel (Mark 6:17-29), ego causes the death of our beloved John the Baptist:
Herod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. She had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodias’ own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king’s presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
In Volume Seven, St. Damien has some great advice about keeping your ego in check:
"Egos are difficult friends and dreadful rulers. Keep your ego on a very short leash and understand that your merit lies in your obedience to Christ. Do not take credit for what Christ does through you. He cannot entrust great missions to you if your ego swells with each success. When your work is successful, praise God. When your work fails, praise God. When the sun shines, praise God. When the rain falls, praise God. Do you get the idea? You serve Him and He will do great things through you. These great things have nothing to do with you except that you allowed heaven to use you as an instrument. Your merit in heaven will not depend on the greatness of your mission or the greatness of what Christ accomplished through you. Your merit will reflect the work you did in your soul, the policing of your ego, the honing of the virtues, the self-denial, and the love that you allowed to flow through you to other souls."
Lay apostles, do a little work on your ego today. Read the Litany of Humility, over and over. It will do wonders for that 'ol ego, I promise!
Thank you, Lord, for all the times my ego was bruised and You were there to comfort me. Please continue to give me the grace and fortitude I need to keep my mouth shut when under attack!
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Gospel Words Today: The Last Will Be First
Yes, I was one of those kids usually chosen last for the kickball, dodgeball or softball team. P.E. class was something I dreaded in my younger days. I was short and thin . . . and sucked at most sports. I think it was more a lack of confidence than skill, but I tried. In kickball, I usually sent it flying right into the arms of the opposing team. In dodgeball, I was usually the target as I wasn't as fast on my feet. In softball, by the time I ran with all my might to first base, I was already out and the opposing team heading to the dugout for their turn at bat. As you can imagine, as I matured I had an aching desire to be first . . . the best at whatever I attempted. To the point of being a perfectionist. An over-the-top perfectionist. Whenever things didn't turn out my way, the wounded little girl who was always chosen last emerged and she was not a happy camper! With time (and this apostolate!), the concept of humility and rejoicing for those chosen over me, those loved more than I, and trusting Christ with every outcome has become the way I try to live my life. Being last means lifting others up . . . remaining small so my ego doesn't get in the way. I have learned being the dreaded last pick is actually a place of honor in the Lord's Eyes.
Today's Gospel (Matthew 19:23-30) spells it out . . . the first will be last and the last will be first:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, I say to you, it will be hard for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of heaven. Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and said, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “For men this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” Then Peter said to him in reply, “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
In Volume Seven, St. Gertrude advises us to compare ourselves to Christ, not the world:
"Dear brothers and sisters, along with detachment you must practice humility. You have words from heaven, but what will you do with these words? Will you understand that God is calling you to be an apostle? Truly, that is the case. Have you answered that call? You will be first in heaven, my friends, but you must allow yourself to be last on earth. You have been given great spiritual food, along with many spiritual graces. You will not want to waste these graces by continuing to march to the tune of the enemy. Step out of that group that follows the world and follow us, your heavenly friends. We are humble because we compare ourselves to Christ. Compare yourself to Him and you will also feel humble. When you are humble, He can make you great. It is not hard to understand if you are detached from the world. Heaven is so different. When you consider worldly thinking, just reverse it and often you will find yourself thinking in heavenly terms."
Lay apostles, there are times when our hard work doesn't get rewarded. How do we react when this occurs? Our human instinct is to be hurt, upset, feel abandoned, or angry. If we attempt what St. Gertrude is suggesting, when considering worldly thinking, just reverse it! Strive to be humble in everything. Look at hurtful events as blessings. Remember He will never abandon us. Be joyful instead of angry.
Thank you, Lord, for all the lessons and especially for Your Words in the Gospel today. I promise to strive for humility over ego! Please continue to remind me when I start thinking as the world thinks!
God bless,
Bonnie
Today's Gospel (Matthew 19:23-30) spells it out . . . the first will be last and the last will be first:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, I say to you, it will be hard for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of heaven. Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and said, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “For men this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” Then Peter said to him in reply, “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
In Volume Seven, St. Gertrude advises us to compare ourselves to Christ, not the world:
"Dear brothers and sisters, along with detachment you must practice humility. You have words from heaven, but what will you do with these words? Will you understand that God is calling you to be an apostle? Truly, that is the case. Have you answered that call? You will be first in heaven, my friends, but you must allow yourself to be last on earth. You have been given great spiritual food, along with many spiritual graces. You will not want to waste these graces by continuing to march to the tune of the enemy. Step out of that group that follows the world and follow us, your heavenly friends. We are humble because we compare ourselves to Christ. Compare yourself to Him and you will also feel humble. When you are humble, He can make you great. It is not hard to understand if you are detached from the world. Heaven is so different. When you consider worldly thinking, just reverse it and often you will find yourself thinking in heavenly terms."
Lay apostles, there are times when our hard work doesn't get rewarded. How do we react when this occurs? Our human instinct is to be hurt, upset, feel abandoned, or angry. If we attempt what St. Gertrude is suggesting, when considering worldly thinking, just reverse it! Strive to be humble in everything. Look at hurtful events as blessings. Remember He will never abandon us. Be joyful instead of angry.
Thank you, Lord, for all the lessons and especially for Your Words in the Gospel today. I promise to strive for humility over ego! Please continue to remind me when I start thinking as the world thinks!
God bless,
Bonnie
Monday, August 21, 2017
Gospel Thought Today: It's Just Stuff
My purse collection is extensive. Maybe not the volume of Imelda Marcos (after she and her family fled Malacanan Palace, they found 1,000 handbags left behind!), but I have accumulated a nice assemblage in an array of colors. One thing you must know, I don't collect designer bags. I go for cheap and unique. If Macy's is having a 60% off sale and I have an extra 20% off coupon . . . well, let's just say I love a good deal. But as much as I delight in the rainbow displayed on hooks in my closet, I would give any of them away in a heartbeat. One insight (among many) I have taken away from this apostolate is detaching from worldly possessions in order to focus on accumulating heavenly assets. This is an easy task when we are talking about handbags. But what about our homes? Our cars? What would we do if our creature comforts were taken away? Well, whine and complain a bit, I suppose. Perhaps fear would ensnare our minds causing unethical decisions to be made in order to retrieve what we had lost. I'm not saying give up everything you have worked hard to achieve. I'm saying don't place such a high value on material things you can't take with you . . . after all, it's just stuff.
In today's Gospel (Matthew 19:16-22), Jesus honestly answers what appears to be a simple question:
A young man approached Jesus and said, "Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?" He answered him, "Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments." He asked him, "Which ones?" And Jesus replied, "You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself." The young man said to him, "All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
In the February 2005 Monthly Message, Jesus provides guidance in regard to possessions on earth:
"I wish to tell the world of My love. Dearest children of God, you will be welcomed in heaven. You have a family here who prepares for your arrival. Each soul on earth is steadily making progress in their earthly journey in that you are steadily approaching the end of your life, even if you will live to a very old age. If we begin with that thought, My next thought will make even more sense to you: I wish you to consider what it is you will bring Me when I come for you. Will you bring Me kindness to others? Will you bring Me service to your family? Will you bring Me a duty fulfilled in obedience and dignity? You see, little souls, I will not ask you for your material possessions because they will have no value here, unless you use these possessions to help others. Only then can material possessions acquire heavenly value. I have placed you in the world to serve. I am with you in each day but you must also be with Me. Dearest children, ask Me for guidance and I will tell you how I wish you to serve."
Lay apostles, are you placing a higher value on your material possessions than on your spouse or children? On accumulating rather than loving? What's the worst thing that could happen if you lost a treasured item? You would be sad; you would miss it; and then life goes on, right? Why spend precious time and energy fretting over "things" when there are plenty of people around us needing kindness and love?
Thank you, Lord, for showing me earthly "things" aren't as important as love and kindness. Continue to place people in my life to love and show accumulating heavenly virtues is much more important than handbags!
God bless,
Bonnie
In today's Gospel (Matthew 19:16-22), Jesus honestly answers what appears to be a simple question:
A young man approached Jesus and said, "Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?" He answered him, "Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments." He asked him, "Which ones?" And Jesus replied, "You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself." The young man said to him, "All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
In the February 2005 Monthly Message, Jesus provides guidance in regard to possessions on earth:
"I wish to tell the world of My love. Dearest children of God, you will be welcomed in heaven. You have a family here who prepares for your arrival. Each soul on earth is steadily making progress in their earthly journey in that you are steadily approaching the end of your life, even if you will live to a very old age. If we begin with that thought, My next thought will make even more sense to you: I wish you to consider what it is you will bring Me when I come for you. Will you bring Me kindness to others? Will you bring Me service to your family? Will you bring Me a duty fulfilled in obedience and dignity? You see, little souls, I will not ask you for your material possessions because they will have no value here, unless you use these possessions to help others. Only then can material possessions acquire heavenly value. I have placed you in the world to serve. I am with you in each day but you must also be with Me. Dearest children, ask Me for guidance and I will tell you how I wish you to serve."
Lay apostles, are you placing a higher value on your material possessions than on your spouse or children? On accumulating rather than loving? What's the worst thing that could happen if you lost a treasured item? You would be sad; you would miss it; and then life goes on, right? Why spend precious time and energy fretting over "things" when there are plenty of people around us needing kindness and love?
Thank you, Lord, for showing me earthly "things" aren't as important as love and kindness. Continue to place people in my life to love and show accumulating heavenly virtues is much more important than handbags!
God bless,
Bonnie
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Gospel Word Today: Listen
Today's Gospel (Matthew 18:15-20) couldn't be any clearer . . . in marriage, in relationships, in business . . . be honest, trustworthy and a good listener. What we give on earth will be given to us after our death. So, let's do our best to put our ego aside and serve others. It's a new day and a new opportunity to focus on the end result . . . an eternity in the presence of Christ!
Jesus said to his disciples: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. If he refuses to listen even to the Church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Serving in Clarity, the following quote provides a visual worth remembering when the climb is steep:
"Today I found myself back at the mountain of holiness. I saw many people ascending at quite a high level. These ones made steady progress and seemed to exhibit great joy. I found myself among them for a moment in that I had the experience of how they felt. The mountain at this height was steep and there would be a risk of falling back but I sensed the most secure support at my back. It was like a solid structure against which to rest and it felt perfectly safe and absolutely sound. I saw, in looking around, that something bound us all together at this level and everyone around me was as secure as I was, which is what contributed powerfully to our freedom and subsequent joy. I said, 'Jesus, what binds us together?' Jesus said, 'It is obedience to My Church, Anne. The solid support behind you is your obedience to My Church.'
I rejoiced in the happiness of those around me and delighted in the steadiness with which they moved, never backsliding. I understood clearly that if a soul left obedience the support would be jeopardized. I asked Jesus a question because I am bothered by something. I said, 'Lord, what about the cases where people act in obedience but are really unkind? They are obeying but something is terribly wrong.' Jesus drew my attention to the Ring of Defiance, the ring of people at the base of the mountain that repulsed others. I understood that while some appeared to obey in deed or in behavior, they lacked the spirit of obedience. Jesus told me that I would know quite quickly if the spirit of obedience was lacking in a soul because I would experience arrogance from these people. They pretend to obey but in their hearts they have no love. Their obedience feeds their arrogance and they use the pretense of obedience to hold themselves above others. People experience superiority and coldness from them. I know some of these people and it is very repugnant. They can be cruel and indifferent. It is another case of others being the mirror in which they admire themselves. I said, 'Lord, they do a lot of work.' He said 'Yes, and they demand full payment from Me. They present each deed to Me with a demand for recompense.' I remained quiet, such was the dreadfulness of this. Jesus, in response to my unasked question said, 'They will be repaid for their deeds but they will spend time in purgatory learning about love and humility.' I was very aware that those climbing the mountain could rest in their obedience when they became tired or discouraged. They could actually lean back into it for a time until their courage returned. God is pleased with this."
Lay apostles, what are we binding on earth? Is it love, patience, service and humility? If it isn't, we have some work to do! I know I take my eyes off the mountain of holiness every once in a while, and when I do, my actions and decisions aren't stellar. Allowing the world to draw my attention away from the end goal (eternity with Christ) is usually short-lived. And when I can quickly get myself back on track, the world is a much kinder, peaceful place!
Thank you, Lord, for Your messages in the Volumes and the wisdom You have blessed Your servant Anne with. I wouldn't be who I am today without this mission!
God bless,
Bonnie
Jesus said to his disciples: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. If he refuses to listen even to the Church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Serving in Clarity, the following quote provides a visual worth remembering when the climb is steep:
"Today I found myself back at the mountain of holiness. I saw many people ascending at quite a high level. These ones made steady progress and seemed to exhibit great joy. I found myself among them for a moment in that I had the experience of how they felt. The mountain at this height was steep and there would be a risk of falling back but I sensed the most secure support at my back. It was like a solid structure against which to rest and it felt perfectly safe and absolutely sound. I saw, in looking around, that something bound us all together at this level and everyone around me was as secure as I was, which is what contributed powerfully to our freedom and subsequent joy. I said, 'Jesus, what binds us together?' Jesus said, 'It is obedience to My Church, Anne. The solid support behind you is your obedience to My Church.'
I rejoiced in the happiness of those around me and delighted in the steadiness with which they moved, never backsliding. I understood clearly that if a soul left obedience the support would be jeopardized. I asked Jesus a question because I am bothered by something. I said, 'Lord, what about the cases where people act in obedience but are really unkind? They are obeying but something is terribly wrong.' Jesus drew my attention to the Ring of Defiance, the ring of people at the base of the mountain that repulsed others. I understood that while some appeared to obey in deed or in behavior, they lacked the spirit of obedience. Jesus told me that I would know quite quickly if the spirit of obedience was lacking in a soul because I would experience arrogance from these people. They pretend to obey but in their hearts they have no love. Their obedience feeds their arrogance and they use the pretense of obedience to hold themselves above others. People experience superiority and coldness from them. I know some of these people and it is very repugnant. They can be cruel and indifferent. It is another case of others being the mirror in which they admire themselves. I said, 'Lord, they do a lot of work.' He said 'Yes, and they demand full payment from Me. They present each deed to Me with a demand for recompense.' I remained quiet, such was the dreadfulness of this. Jesus, in response to my unasked question said, 'They will be repaid for their deeds but they will spend time in purgatory learning about love and humility.' I was very aware that those climbing the mountain could rest in their obedience when they became tired or discouraged. They could actually lean back into it for a time until their courage returned. God is pleased with this."
Lay apostles, what are we binding on earth? Is it love, patience, service and humility? If it isn't, we have some work to do! I know I take my eyes off the mountain of holiness every once in a while, and when I do, my actions and decisions aren't stellar. Allowing the world to draw my attention away from the end goal (eternity with Christ) is usually short-lived. And when I can quickly get myself back on track, the world is a much kinder, peaceful place!
Thank you, Lord, for Your messages in the Volumes and the wisdom You have blessed Your servant Anne with. I wouldn't be who I am today without this mission!
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
What exactly is the "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary?" The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops defines it as "The dogma which recognizes the Blessed Virgin Mary's singular participation in her Son's Resurrection by which she was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, when the course of her earthly life was finished." Can you imagine what Mary must have felt knowing she carried Our Savior within her womb? A few words come to mind . . . humility, love, thankfulness, with a little bit of overwhelmed thrown in. God chooses wisely, lay apostles. Beginning with Mary, He knows exactly who He needs to carry messages of salvation to the world. We have been blessed over the years by the humility of our visionaries who have said "yes" to spreading God's love and words to a world in desperate need of salvation. Thank you, Mother Mary, for saying "yes" to God. And, thank you, Anne, for your "yes," sacrificing for Our Savior by giving up a normal life.
Todays Gospel (Luke 1:39-56) shows the humility and obedience of Our Lady:
Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”
And Mary said:
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.”
Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.
In Volume 8, Jesus reminds us how His Mother suffers as He does when souls reject Him:
"Dear children, just as I suffer at the distance many souls have placed between themselves and heaven, Our Mother also suffers. She, more than anyone, shared My Passion. She now shares My anguish at the loss of so many souls. I feel revulsion at the sins of this world. Our Mother shares this revulsion. You must understand that when you are glimpsing My heart, and My feelings, you are also glimpsing the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This precious and pure little heart beats with love and tenderness for each of us. Every soul is precious to Mary. I thank you for all of the little sacrifices that console Me. I want you to know that each prayer and sacrifice given for Me also consoles Our Mother. Great joy comes to Mary when souls give thanks and praise to Me. Truly, if you are devoted to My Mother, and I want you to be, work for Me and she will be happy with you. She seeks only My will and her active and powerful intercession in your world furthers My will in a spectacular fashion. She is the woman clothed with the sun, capable of vanquishing the enemy."
Lay apostles, Our Lady is a true intercessor for us on earth. My mother always said to say a prayer to Mary when in need . . . for what Son doesn't listen to His Mother? And remember, sometimes what we pray for may take a little longer to achieve . . . God's time, right? And, sometimes His answer is "no" for our own good.
Thank you, Lord, for the intercession and motherly love of Our Lady You allow us. You are a Good Son!
God bless,
Bonnie
Todays Gospel (Luke 1:39-56) shows the humility and obedience of Our Lady:
Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”
And Mary said:
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.”
Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.
In Volume 8, Jesus reminds us how His Mother suffers as He does when souls reject Him:
"Dear children, just as I suffer at the distance many souls have placed between themselves and heaven, Our Mother also suffers. She, more than anyone, shared My Passion. She now shares My anguish at the loss of so many souls. I feel revulsion at the sins of this world. Our Mother shares this revulsion. You must understand that when you are glimpsing My heart, and My feelings, you are also glimpsing the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This precious and pure little heart beats with love and tenderness for each of us. Every soul is precious to Mary. I thank you for all of the little sacrifices that console Me. I want you to know that each prayer and sacrifice given for Me also consoles Our Mother. Great joy comes to Mary when souls give thanks and praise to Me. Truly, if you are devoted to My Mother, and I want you to be, work for Me and she will be happy with you. She seeks only My will and her active and powerful intercession in your world furthers My will in a spectacular fashion. She is the woman clothed with the sun, capable of vanquishing the enemy."
Lay apostles, Our Lady is a true intercessor for us on earth. My mother always said to say a prayer to Mary when in need . . . for what Son doesn't listen to His Mother? And remember, sometimes what we pray for may take a little longer to achieve . . . God's time, right? And, sometimes His answer is "no" for our own good.
Thank you, Lord, for the intercession and motherly love of Our Lady You allow us. You are a Good Son!
God bless,
Bonnie
Friday, August 11, 2017
Gospel Words Today: Exchange
Humidity and flat ironed curly hair just don't mix. I leave the house with nice straight hair (which took about 40 minutes to create!) and within minutes I can feel my hair expanding . . . visions of Pepe, my childhood French Poodle immediately come to mind!
I have spent the past two days watching two of my grandchildren, ages 5 and 3. One thing I can always expect out of my granddaughter when she comes to our house . . . "Mimi, playground please?" Which means our swingset in the backyard. Now for those of you not living in SW Florida, it is about 90 degrees with about 80% humidity right now. This is the time of year we avoid extended periods outside. But with her sweet little face looking at me, how can I refuse? Well, I never do refuse and choose to suffer the curly hair fate. In exchange, I am blessed immensely with their love and joy. I would endure anything for these children just as Jesus asks us to weather the storm for Him. Life will bring with it suffering. We have a choice . . . focus on Christ or focus on the world. I chose Christ!
In today's Gospel (Matthew 16:24-28), Jesus asks us to endure suffering on earth in His Name . . . and our reward will be great in heaven:
Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? Or what can one give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father’s glory, and then he will repay each according to his conduct. Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom.”
In Volume Two, Jesus shows us by focusing on Him instead of ourselves, we can bring His love and kindness to others:
"If you are hurried, you will miss My cue and the soul will remain without necessary consolation and guidance. Children, this is the state of affairs all over your world at this time. Do you notice that loneliness and despair are everywhere? Children, you will not find loneliness and despair where I am. Indeed, even in the most wretched of circumstances, if I am present, you will see eyes that smile and offer kindness, and you will see great hope, even in the face of suffering and death. So what is missing in your world? I am missing. Few souls allow Me to work through them. When I am allowed, you will see hope begin to flourish again. Faces will be more at peace and joy will flow naturally from one soul to another. I will put such joy in your faces that you will be unable to conceal your unity with Me. Crosses will feel lighter and hold great meaning. Children, I have so much to offer you, both in these words and in My constant presence in your lives. So do not turn away, even for a day. Draw closer to Me, that We may proceed. What feels difficult to you, anticipating changes in your life, will come easily. That is another promise I make to you."
Lay apostles, how do you endure suffering? Loneliness? Tragedy? I used to try to handle it alone. Now, I couldn't do it without Him. Maybe it's my age . . . but I sure wish I would have had the Volumes 40 years ago. I don't think I would have sweat the small stuff as much.
Thank you, Lord, for teaching me about true suffering and letting go of insignificant inconveniences. I haven't perfected it yet, but I am learning!
God bless,
Bonnie
I have spent the past two days watching two of my grandchildren, ages 5 and 3. One thing I can always expect out of my granddaughter when she comes to our house . . . "Mimi, playground please?" Which means our swingset in the backyard. Now for those of you not living in SW Florida, it is about 90 degrees with about 80% humidity right now. This is the time of year we avoid extended periods outside. But with her sweet little face looking at me, how can I refuse? Well, I never do refuse and choose to suffer the curly hair fate. In exchange, I am blessed immensely with their love and joy. I would endure anything for these children just as Jesus asks us to weather the storm for Him. Life will bring with it suffering. We have a choice . . . focus on Christ or focus on the world. I chose Christ!
In today's Gospel (Matthew 16:24-28), Jesus asks us to endure suffering on earth in His Name . . . and our reward will be great in heaven:
Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? Or what can one give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father’s glory, and then he will repay each according to his conduct. Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom.”
In Volume Two, Jesus shows us by focusing on Him instead of ourselves, we can bring His love and kindness to others:
"If you are hurried, you will miss My cue and the soul will remain without necessary consolation and guidance. Children, this is the state of affairs all over your world at this time. Do you notice that loneliness and despair are everywhere? Children, you will not find loneliness and despair where I am. Indeed, even in the most wretched of circumstances, if I am present, you will see eyes that smile and offer kindness, and you will see great hope, even in the face of suffering and death. So what is missing in your world? I am missing. Few souls allow Me to work through them. When I am allowed, you will see hope begin to flourish again. Faces will be more at peace and joy will flow naturally from one soul to another. I will put such joy in your faces that you will be unable to conceal your unity with Me. Crosses will feel lighter and hold great meaning. Children, I have so much to offer you, both in these words and in My constant presence in your lives. So do not turn away, even for a day. Draw closer to Me, that We may proceed. What feels difficult to you, anticipating changes in your life, will come easily. That is another promise I make to you."
Lay apostles, how do you endure suffering? Loneliness? Tragedy? I used to try to handle it alone. Now, I couldn't do it without Him. Maybe it's my age . . . but I sure wish I would have had the Volumes 40 years ago. I don't think I would have sweat the small stuff as much.
Thank you, Lord, for teaching me about true suffering and letting go of insignificant inconveniences. I haven't perfected it yet, but I am learning!
God bless,
Bonnie
Thursday, August 10, 2017
Gospel Words for Today: Eternal Life
I remember reading today's Gospel years ago and having a "brain fart." (Ok, had to use one of the best lines from the movie GI Jane!) While trying to interpret it, I struggled with its meaning and relating it to my life. Here it is from John 12:24-26:
Jesus said to his disciples: "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me."
The part where my brain malfunctioned is bolded above. I was becoming frustrated deciphering what this meant and decided to email my priest. Right after I hit the send button, I reread the sentence again. Then it dawned on me. And, I emailed him again with this:
"So, if we love living here on earth too much, we fear death and don't look forward to heaven. But if we focus on heaven, and anticipate the day we get there, we will have eternal life. Did I get it right?"
His response:
"Indeed!"
Reading this sentence today, it's perfectly clear. It's about climbing the mountain of holiness, with eyes looking toward heaven and not the world. It's about sacrifice, loneliness, being wronged and all other degrees of humiliation we endure on earth. But it's persevering and suffering through it all knowing our reward when we die will be paradise . . . eternal life with Our Lord.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she describes unity to Christ in heaven and on earth:
“Truly, the Kingdom of God is within us because Jesus IS the Kingdom of God. I state clearly that in heaven, nobody reacts when Jesus enters an area. Some souls smiled at me or acknowledged me in welcome, but they did not acknowledge Jesus. I found this odd until I understood that Jesus never leaves any of these souls. The same way I experienced Him, they experienced Him. This is the sublime truth that can create peace in every soul. There is no restlessness, no hungering, no longing, no fear, no anxiety, and no disturbance possible when you are united to Jesus. And He is with you. On earth, we must believe this in faith. This is the treasure without price. Many souls on earth search frantically, looking for this state of mystical paradise. But, like Dorothy wearing the red shoes in the Wizard of Oz, this mystical state is with them all along and their search is doomed at its inception unless the soul looks within. If we begin our climb up the mountain of holiness each day, we will be accepting that Christ is within us. At the top of this mountain is unity with Jesus, yes, and that unity is a guaranteed thing if we desire it. The higher we climb, the more we labor for holiness and for the Kingdom on the path that He has marked out for us, and the more we honor Jesus within our souls.”
Lay apostles, don't waste another day wishing life was easier, your bank account larger, or others understood you better. Embrace the challenges we are presented with in life as that . . . a challenge which will bring you closer to unity with Christ. Don't wait until disaster strikes to start praying. Start praying despite disaster striking. And, don't ever stop.
Thank you, Lord, for teaching me to walk with You through stormy weather despite the thunder claps and lightening bolts all around me. And, for the common sense not to hold an umbrella overhead where the strike could electrocute me!
God bless,
Bonnie
Jesus said to his disciples: "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me."
The part where my brain malfunctioned is bolded above. I was becoming frustrated deciphering what this meant and decided to email my priest. Right after I hit the send button, I reread the sentence again. Then it dawned on me. And, I emailed him again with this:
"So, if we love living here on earth too much, we fear death and don't look forward to heaven. But if we focus on heaven, and anticipate the day we get there, we will have eternal life. Did I get it right?"
His response:
"Indeed!"
Reading this sentence today, it's perfectly clear. It's about climbing the mountain of holiness, with eyes looking toward heaven and not the world. It's about sacrifice, loneliness, being wronged and all other degrees of humiliation we endure on earth. But it's persevering and suffering through it all knowing our reward when we die will be paradise . . . eternal life with Our Lord.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she describes unity to Christ in heaven and on earth:
“Truly, the Kingdom of God is within us because Jesus IS the Kingdom of God. I state clearly that in heaven, nobody reacts when Jesus enters an area. Some souls smiled at me or acknowledged me in welcome, but they did not acknowledge Jesus. I found this odd until I understood that Jesus never leaves any of these souls. The same way I experienced Him, they experienced Him. This is the sublime truth that can create peace in every soul. There is no restlessness, no hungering, no longing, no fear, no anxiety, and no disturbance possible when you are united to Jesus. And He is with you. On earth, we must believe this in faith. This is the treasure without price. Many souls on earth search frantically, looking for this state of mystical paradise. But, like Dorothy wearing the red shoes in the Wizard of Oz, this mystical state is with them all along and their search is doomed at its inception unless the soul looks within. If we begin our climb up the mountain of holiness each day, we will be accepting that Christ is within us. At the top of this mountain is unity with Jesus, yes, and that unity is a guaranteed thing if we desire it. The higher we climb, the more we labor for holiness and for the Kingdom on the path that He has marked out for us, and the more we honor Jesus within our souls.”
Lay apostles, don't waste another day wishing life was easier, your bank account larger, or others understood you better. Embrace the challenges we are presented with in life as that . . . a challenge which will bring you closer to unity with Christ. Don't wait until disaster strikes to start praying. Start praying despite disaster striking. And, don't ever stop.
Thank you, Lord, for teaching me to walk with You through stormy weather despite the thunder claps and lightening bolts all around me. And, for the common sense not to hold an umbrella overhead where the strike could electrocute me!
God bless,
Bonnie
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
Captive Body, Free Soul
My younger sister began her nursing career in prison. No, she was not convicted of a crime. But taking care of those who were. She has a very kind heart and found the population to be quite diverse. Some were angry and noncompliant; some quiet and manageable. There is one common denominator among all the prisoners—they are sinners just like those of us outside the walls of confinement. They are sinners that took it one step further, becoming captive behind bars. Despite their choices, they are still children of God and need our prayers.
Direction for Our Times (DFOT) is blessed with a woman named Mary C. working with the prison ministry for this apostolate. I received a forwarded message from DFOT a few years ago with the following statement from Mary:
"I got a very special phone call very late last night from one man who ministers at the Otero Federal Prison. He had distributed the latest order of DFOT booklets to the incarcerated along with vol 2 & vol 7. He was so filled with joy as the prisoners expressed their extreme gratitude. They all gathered together last night to pray for us! He said that when he used to go in to see the men, they would only want to do small talk, now they want to skip the small talk. They want to know more about Jesus. They want bibles and rosaries now too. (And we're talking hundreds and hundreds of men here!)
As for myself, I don't even know how to begin to express my gratitude for the support this apostolate has provided to help me in my outreach. I am speechless when I think of the sacrifice that some have had to go through to ensure I have the resources I need to distribute. May Jesus bless them doubly for their generosity. I love them with every fiber of my being."
Incredible, right? If you are interested in changing the lives of prisoners through Christ, here is a link to get you started: http://www.prisonfellowship.org/prison-fellowship-home
In today's Gospel (Matthew 15:21-28) we see the Canaanite woman demonstrate her belief Jesus is the Messiah, not losing hope for her daughter's healing:
At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, "Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon." But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him, "Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us." He said in reply, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." But the woman came and did him homage, saying, "Lord, help me." He said in reply, "It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters." Then Jesus said to her in reply, "O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed from that hour.
In the booklet Heaven Speaks to Prisoners, Jesus consoles those isolated from society without hope:
“I wish to talk to those imprisoned, for any reason. Dear brothers and sisters, your Christian family needs you. Your prayers, your sacrifices have great power. If you unite your suffering to Me, I can use it to save many souls. For example, if you offer Me each day, I will take your offering and I will use it to soften the hearts of your family members who are separated from you. I will use your offering to undo any damage that your sins may have caused. I do not need to say that I will work miracles in your soul. I do not need to say that because you know this. It is part of My promise to all lay apostles. You have not lived a perfect life, whether or not you are guilty of the crimes for which you have been accused. Even if those crimes were not at issue, you have not been perfect. How do I know that? I will tell you. No man or woman is perfect. All are sinners. In My eyes, this makes you no worse than someone who is not imprisoned. Do you understand? You may feel the eyes of the world upon you in condemnation, but in the eyes of heaven you do not stand out. You are My friend. I am your friend. There are many souls not in prison, who are far guiltier than you. You are cherished and it is that which I have come to tell you. Rest your head against Me, your Jesus, and I will heal you.”
Lay apostles, as difficult as it may be praying for those incarcerated, they need the healing graces of Jesus. In your daily prayers, add a special intention for those in prison. Our Lord will take those prayers and put them to good use.
Thank you, Lord, for people like Mary who love the hardest to love by spreading Your messages in the Volumes and Heaven Speaks booklets. Please bless the prison ministry with funding to continue this important task and remind prisoners that although their bodies are captive, their souls are free to love and heal.
God bless,
Bonnie
Direction for Our Times (DFOT) is blessed with a woman named Mary C. working with the prison ministry for this apostolate. I received a forwarded message from DFOT a few years ago with the following statement from Mary:
"I got a very special phone call very late last night from one man who ministers at the Otero Federal Prison. He had distributed the latest order of DFOT booklets to the incarcerated along with vol 2 & vol 7. He was so filled with joy as the prisoners expressed their extreme gratitude. They all gathered together last night to pray for us! He said that when he used to go in to see the men, they would only want to do small talk, now they want to skip the small talk. They want to know more about Jesus. They want bibles and rosaries now too. (And we're talking hundreds and hundreds of men here!)
As for myself, I don't even know how to begin to express my gratitude for the support this apostolate has provided to help me in my outreach. I am speechless when I think of the sacrifice that some have had to go through to ensure I have the resources I need to distribute. May Jesus bless them doubly for their generosity. I love them with every fiber of my being."
Incredible, right? If you are interested in changing the lives of prisoners through Christ, here is a link to get you started: http://www.prisonfellowship.org/prison-fellowship-home
In today's Gospel (Matthew 15:21-28) we see the Canaanite woman demonstrate her belief Jesus is the Messiah, not losing hope for her daughter's healing:
At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, "Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon." But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him, "Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us." He said in reply, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." But the woman came and did him homage, saying, "Lord, help me." He said in reply, "It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters." Then Jesus said to her in reply, "O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed from that hour.
In the booklet Heaven Speaks to Prisoners, Jesus consoles those isolated from society without hope:
“I wish to talk to those imprisoned, for any reason. Dear brothers and sisters, your Christian family needs you. Your prayers, your sacrifices have great power. If you unite your suffering to Me, I can use it to save many souls. For example, if you offer Me each day, I will take your offering and I will use it to soften the hearts of your family members who are separated from you. I will use your offering to undo any damage that your sins may have caused. I do not need to say that I will work miracles in your soul. I do not need to say that because you know this. It is part of My promise to all lay apostles. You have not lived a perfect life, whether or not you are guilty of the crimes for which you have been accused. Even if those crimes were not at issue, you have not been perfect. How do I know that? I will tell you. No man or woman is perfect. All are sinners. In My eyes, this makes you no worse than someone who is not imprisoned. Do you understand? You may feel the eyes of the world upon you in condemnation, but in the eyes of heaven you do not stand out. You are My friend. I am your friend. There are many souls not in prison, who are far guiltier than you. You are cherished and it is that which I have come to tell you. Rest your head against Me, your Jesus, and I will heal you.”
Lay apostles, as difficult as it may be praying for those incarcerated, they need the healing graces of Jesus. In your daily prayers, add a special intention for those in prison. Our Lord will take those prayers and put them to good use.
Thank you, Lord, for people like Mary who love the hardest to love by spreading Your messages in the Volumes and Heaven Speaks booklets. Please bless the prison ministry with funding to continue this important task and remind prisoners that although their bodies are captive, their souls are free to love and heal.
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Gospel Word Today: Courage
Inevitably, chaos will emerge at one point or another in our lives . . . corruption, anger, fake news, persecution. The big question is how do we respond to these disruptions? I tend to be more reactive at first, but can calm down quickly. My goal is to accept anything coming my way with courage . . . meaning complete trust in Christ before reacting. If I view turmoil through His eyes and with His heart, I naturally eradicate any fear I may experience. The tough part is taking that step onto the raging sea. I am in good company though . . . His apostles worked through the same fears.
Today's Gospel (Matthew 14:22-36) demonstrates even His apostles lacked courage at times, but Peter steps out in faith as we all must attempt continuously:
Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."
After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, Jesus gives us direction as to how to live our lives with courage:
"May people be strong and committed, as disciplined in thought as they are in action. May they find congruence in their prayer life and not in the opinions of others. May they receive their vocations as divinely organized in the mind of God and live from them in trust. May they have great courage as they stand down those inflated with power and self-importance. May they live humility with simplicity. May they have joy in their obligations to bring about the new time and retain personal holiness as a gift to their mother, the Queen of the Church. And may Jesus Christ be strengthened in presence in the world through the constancy of many holy disciples and apostles."
Lay apostles, contemplate how fear interrupts your trust in Jesus. As I have said many times in this blog, worst case scenario is death, the biggest fear factor. Actually, with faith in Christ, departing this world is a best case scenario. None of us know our expiration date. With that in mind, have courage, not fear. After all, our goal is eternity in heaven with Him!
Thank you, Lord, for strengthening my heart and mind toward courage, not fear. And, for the wake up call when I falter!
God bless,
Bonnie
Today's Gospel (Matthew 14:22-36) demonstrates even His apostles lacked courage at times, but Peter steps out in faith as we all must attempt continuously:
Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."
After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, Jesus gives us direction as to how to live our lives with courage:
"May people be strong and committed, as disciplined in thought as they are in action. May they find congruence in their prayer life and not in the opinions of others. May they receive their vocations as divinely organized in the mind of God and live from them in trust. May they have great courage as they stand down those inflated with power and self-importance. May they live humility with simplicity. May they have joy in their obligations to bring about the new time and retain personal holiness as a gift to their mother, the Queen of the Church. And may Jesus Christ be strengthened in presence in the world through the constancy of many holy disciples and apostles."
Lay apostles, contemplate how fear interrupts your trust in Jesus. As I have said many times in this blog, worst case scenario is death, the biggest fear factor. Actually, with faith in Christ, departing this world is a best case scenario. None of us know our expiration date. With that in mind, have courage, not fear. After all, our goal is eternity in heaven with Him!
Thank you, Lord, for strengthening my heart and mind toward courage, not fear. And, for the wake up call when I falter!
God bless,
Bonnie
Monday, August 7, 2017
Gospel Words Today: His Heart Was Moved
Lost sheep. Wounded little boys and girls carrying out their lives without ever healing their hearts from childhood. Being a lay apostle means taking responsibility for our actions and words. And most importantly, forgiveness. I can imagine Jesus looking down on our world today, His heart being moved at the amount of hatred, anger, and lack of faith His Children wander about their day with, searching for something to fill the gaping open hole that only He can fill. Anyone can say they are a Christian. But the only way to truly be a Christian is to love and live as Jesus did while He was on the earth. We can't just say we "tried" His way, it failed for one reason or another, so we are not going to try anymore. It just doesn't work like that. He would never desert one of us because we've sinned. He continues to forgive us and see the best we have to offer. As a parent, there is nothing my children or grandchildren could say or do to make me stop trying . . . to stop caring about them. I may sit back while they learn their own lessons just as I had to learn my own. But I will ALWAYS be there for them, just as the Prodigal Son's father was waiting with open arms. Remember how moved Jesus was seeing those 5,000 people in the Gospel today. Nothing has changed.
When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist, he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already late; dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.” He said to them, “There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all we have here.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me,” and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.
In the Monthly Message from November 2007, Jesus offers us compassion as we offer it to others:
"Our greatest goal for you is holiness because only in holiness will you find peace and joy. Look around you. How many have committed themselves to holiness as you have committed yourself to holiness? If you look at others, you will see that the Saviour can count only a few as His committed apostles. And yet, every person, regardless of their condition, longs for the holiness you seek, even if their longing is denied and ignored. My heart is moved to such pity for those who do not seek Me. Let your heart also be moved to pity. Show constant compassion, never judgment, to those who do not understand what they lack. I am trying to show you, My beloved apostle, that you have begun a journey that must be taken by each person who will spend eternity in the family of God. If others delay the journey, that is their affair. My beloved apostles understand that this journey, the journey to holiness, is the most important journey they will ever take. This is your first priority, My friends. Continue to make your pledge and I will see to it that you become holier."
In today's Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21), our dear sweet Jesus' heart swells as He observes His lost sheep:
When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist, he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already late; dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.” He said to them, “There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all we have here.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me,” and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.
In the Monthly Message from November 2007, Jesus offers us compassion as we offer it to others:
"Our greatest goal for you is holiness because only in holiness will you find peace and joy. Look around you. How many have committed themselves to holiness as you have committed yourself to holiness? If you look at others, you will see that the Saviour can count only a few as His committed apostles. And yet, every person, regardless of their condition, longs for the holiness you seek, even if their longing is denied and ignored. My heart is moved to such pity for those who do not seek Me. Let your heart also be moved to pity. Show constant compassion, never judgment, to those who do not understand what they lack. I am trying to show you, My beloved apostle, that you have begun a journey that must be taken by each person who will spend eternity in the family of God. If others delay the journey, that is their affair. My beloved apostles understand that this journey, the journey to holiness, is the most important journey they will ever take. This is your first priority, My friends. Continue to make your pledge and I will see to it that you become holier."
Lay apostles, is there someone in your life who has hurt or offended you? Have you hurt or offended someone? As Jesus says in the Monthly Message above, "show constant compassion, never judgment, to those who do not understand what they lack." Strive for the Heart of Christ.
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me to love and not hate. To pray for bitter people or those trying to alter my journey to holiness. And to remember to dust off my sandals and move on!
God bless,
Bonnie
Friday, August 4, 2017
Gospel Word Today: Honor
The word "honor" grabbed my attention in the Gospel today. If some didn't honor Christ when He walked this earth . . . when they could actually touch Him, see Him and listen to Him, why would it be any different over 2,000 years later? Well, the Truth can be overwhelming, right? It means admitting to ourselves we are imperfect. The fact is, a true follower of Jesus knows when they are getting it wrong and try to not make the same mistake over and over. His love is unconditional. He honored every one of us in His Passion. If you are Catholic (or even if you are not!), pray the Sorrowful Mysteries. Watch The Passion of the Christ. Immerse yourself in His suffering. Give Him the honor He deserves. In turn, clarity in honoring our families, our friends, our community and our great President will become apparent. Seek the good . . . always.
Today's Gospel (Matthew 13:54-58) illustrates for me how painful (or disappointing) the lack of honor from His own people must have felt for Jesus:
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue.
They were astonished and said, "Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter's son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?" And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house." And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she beautifully describes the magnitude of God's love for us:
"It is like every honor in the world to be asked to write about love of Jesus. Where does one begin and, more importantly, how does one finish a task such as this? One will never be finished. That stated, when asked to do something, it is best to begin. Love of Jesus is like the wind. We cannot see it, we cannot always identify its origin, but it has great impact on us and can actually alter our course. It can begin in softness, as a gentle stirring, and end in the greatest of storms that will lead us to heroic deeds and action. Love of Jesus brings us to the base of the mountain. What is first experienced is the love Jesus has for us. Our love of Christ is actually a response to His perfect love for us because His love always was and always will be. The love between a soul and his Savior is a reciprocal thing. God’s love must be entertained by the soul in order to grow. If the soul has a heart surrounded by ice, Jesus will melt that ice, but He can only work if He is allowed. This ice, the result of sin and of the wounds inflicted by the world, closes off the divine. The heart needs love like the lungs need oxygen. Our Lord Himself has said this. So the more closed the heart is to the divinity, the less capable it is of loving. A soul can sometimes rest in mortal sin or in the world for a long period. This heart becomes hardened and toughened. The longer the heart is closed off to Christ, the more accustomed the soul becomes to living without the love of Christ. This stated, the Divine Healer needs only the smallest crack and He can flood the soul with warmth and heat, melting the ice and restoring the heart to a condition where it can freely give and receive love from Jesus and from other souls. The love of Christ is the most powerful driving force on earth. It is what compels souls to service. It compels souls to work tirelessly for others, their brothers and sisters who are also beloved by Jesus. This is because when we love someone, we begin to accept their goals as our own. If nothing else, we understand the goals of the beloved and if we can help to further those goals, we will do so."
Lay apostles, how are you honoring Christ in your life? How are you honoring those around you? How are you honoring yourself? Honor means honesty, fairness, or integrity in one's beliefs and actions. Remember, actions speak louder than words.
Thank you, Lord, for showing me continually the sacrifices You made for me and all mankind. And, help me to remember to honor You at all times, in any situation.
God bless,
Bonnie
Today's Gospel (Matthew 13:54-58) illustrates for me how painful (or disappointing) the lack of honor from His own people must have felt for Jesus:
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue.
They were astonished and said, "Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter's son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?" And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house." And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she beautifully describes the magnitude of God's love for us:
"It is like every honor in the world to be asked to write about love of Jesus. Where does one begin and, more importantly, how does one finish a task such as this? One will never be finished. That stated, when asked to do something, it is best to begin. Love of Jesus is like the wind. We cannot see it, we cannot always identify its origin, but it has great impact on us and can actually alter our course. It can begin in softness, as a gentle stirring, and end in the greatest of storms that will lead us to heroic deeds and action. Love of Jesus brings us to the base of the mountain. What is first experienced is the love Jesus has for us. Our love of Christ is actually a response to His perfect love for us because His love always was and always will be. The love between a soul and his Savior is a reciprocal thing. God’s love must be entertained by the soul in order to grow. If the soul has a heart surrounded by ice, Jesus will melt that ice, but He can only work if He is allowed. This ice, the result of sin and of the wounds inflicted by the world, closes off the divine. The heart needs love like the lungs need oxygen. Our Lord Himself has said this. So the more closed the heart is to the divinity, the less capable it is of loving. A soul can sometimes rest in mortal sin or in the world for a long period. This heart becomes hardened and toughened. The longer the heart is closed off to Christ, the more accustomed the soul becomes to living without the love of Christ. This stated, the Divine Healer needs only the smallest crack and He can flood the soul with warmth and heat, melting the ice and restoring the heart to a condition where it can freely give and receive love from Jesus and from other souls. The love of Christ is the most powerful driving force on earth. It is what compels souls to service. It compels souls to work tirelessly for others, their brothers and sisters who are also beloved by Jesus. This is because when we love someone, we begin to accept their goals as our own. If nothing else, we understand the goals of the beloved and if we can help to further those goals, we will do so."
Lay apostles, how are you honoring Christ in your life? How are you honoring those around you? How are you honoring yourself? Honor means honesty, fairness, or integrity in one's beliefs and actions. Remember, actions speak louder than words.
Thank you, Lord, for showing me continually the sacrifices You made for me and all mankind. And, help me to remember to honor You at all times, in any situation.
God bless,
Bonnie
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
Gospel Word Today: Treasure
The word "treasure" jumped out at me today in the Gospel and got me thinking . . . what do we define as treasure here on earth? In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, "treasure" is defined as:
(1) wealth (such as money, jewels, or precious metals) stored up or hoarded buried treasure; (2) something of great worth or value; (3) a collection of precious things.
If I asked 100 people "what do you treasure?" I would most likely receive 100 different answers. Think about your answer for a minute. Even write it down. The more I contemplate my own answer, the longer my list grows. I treasure my faith in God, my husband, my daughters, my sons-in-law, my four grandbabies, my soul-sister mother-in-law, all our sisters and their families, my friends. That's just the beginning! There are so many little things I treasure, too. Like a hot shower in the morning, a roof over my head and a good cup of coffee! This thought crosses my mind: how am I storing up treasures for heaven? By loving unconditionally, spreading the Gospel messages to the best of my ability, serving others . . . but do I do this (and more) on a daily basis? Well, I try my hardest to allow the good to overcome the not-so-good. I am a work in progress and so thankful for the guidance Jesus gave to those in His time, which apply at all times!
Today's Gospel (Matthew 13:44-46) is a great reminder of how we should view our lives:
Jesus said to his disciples: "The Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 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."
In Volume Five, Jesus says it loud and clear . . . heavenly treasures, not earthly:
"Brothers and sisters in the world, please allow Me to fill your heart with heavenly gifts. There is no reason for you to live apart from My Kingdom. If you wish it, you can live your life on earth joined to us in heaven. You must practice living in faith, it is true, but like anything else, faith becomes a habit when you practice it, so much so that soon you do not even know you are exerting yourself. That is what I wish for you now and I am going to assist you by rewarding your tiniest acts of faith with supernatural gifts of faith. In this way, you will only need a small bit to begin your union with heaven. What benefits can be gained by union with heaven? You will no longer have as many gaps in your peace. You will view all of your life as transient and valuable. Whether you suffer pain or experience joy, it will all be the same to you, as long as you are united to Me and to heaven. You will have no great preference, dearest soul, because you will detach to that degree. Can you imagine? It is possible if you trust Me and begin this practice. Souls in heaven look down upon their earthly brothers and sisters and sigh for them, because they understand what it is like to be in exile, without the divine vision and the divine knowledge. They remember that to live without certainty was a difficult thing, made more difficult when you lived in dark and difficult times. There have been many such times because mankind is drawn to sin through selfishness. These dark times, such as the one you are living in, create the most beautiful opportunities for holiness and sainthood. You look around and all seems hopeless. How challenging it is then to continue to hope and to allow My joy an avenue through which to flow into the darkness of your world. That, all by itself, is an opportunity for the holiest of acts, the most heroic deed of selflessness. If you are My friend, you have probably suffered. Do not see this as a bad thing. View this as having treasures that await you in heaven because truly, this is the case. Your suffering, done in union with Me, moves the Kingdom toward God the Father. Your suffering, done in union with Me, purifies your soul as it detaches it from the earth, aligning it with the next world. Your suffering, done in union with Me, has saved many souls, despite the fact that you cannot see this yet. There is much you cannot see yet and if I were to show you everything, the merit from your suffering would be diminished profoundly. You do not want that because just as this suffering is accomplishing all of these things for others, it is increasing your reward in heaven. You perhaps cannot picture your reward. It is a difficult thing for a child in exile to imagine what his family will be preparing for him upon his arrival home. You must believe that this child will not be disappointed. The heavenly existence is so far beyond the earthly existence in terms of joy and security that you cannot understand it. I will shed a small bit of light on it for you."
Lay apostles, are we storing up earthly treasures which will be left behind once we leave this earth? Or, are we working toward an eternity with Our Lord in paradise? No one knows their expiration date . . . let's try to live as if it is tonight at midnight!
Thank you, Lord, for the reminder in today's Gospel that heaven is the ultimate goal!
God bless,
Bonnie
(1) wealth (such as money, jewels, or precious metals) stored up or hoarded buried treasure; (2) something of great worth or value; (3) a collection of precious things.
If I asked 100 people "what do you treasure?" I would most likely receive 100 different answers. Think about your answer for a minute. Even write it down. The more I contemplate my own answer, the longer my list grows. I treasure my faith in God, my husband, my daughters, my sons-in-law, my four grandbabies, my soul-sister mother-in-law, all our sisters and their families, my friends. That's just the beginning! There are so many little things I treasure, too. Like a hot shower in the morning, a roof over my head and a good cup of coffee! This thought crosses my mind: how am I storing up treasures for heaven? By loving unconditionally, spreading the Gospel messages to the best of my ability, serving others . . . but do I do this (and more) on a daily basis? Well, I try my hardest to allow the good to overcome the not-so-good. I am a work in progress and so thankful for the guidance Jesus gave to those in His time, which apply at all times!
Today's Gospel (Matthew 13:44-46) is a great reminder of how we should view our lives:
Jesus said to his disciples: "The Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 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."
In Volume Five, Jesus says it loud and clear . . . heavenly treasures, not earthly:
"Brothers and sisters in the world, please allow Me to fill your heart with heavenly gifts. There is no reason for you to live apart from My Kingdom. If you wish it, you can live your life on earth joined to us in heaven. You must practice living in faith, it is true, but like anything else, faith becomes a habit when you practice it, so much so that soon you do not even know you are exerting yourself. That is what I wish for you now and I am going to assist you by rewarding your tiniest acts of faith with supernatural gifts of faith. In this way, you will only need a small bit to begin your union with heaven. What benefits can be gained by union with heaven? You will no longer have as many gaps in your peace. You will view all of your life as transient and valuable. Whether you suffer pain or experience joy, it will all be the same to you, as long as you are united to Me and to heaven. You will have no great preference, dearest soul, because you will detach to that degree. Can you imagine? It is possible if you trust Me and begin this practice. Souls in heaven look down upon their earthly brothers and sisters and sigh for them, because they understand what it is like to be in exile, without the divine vision and the divine knowledge. They remember that to live without certainty was a difficult thing, made more difficult when you lived in dark and difficult times. There have been many such times because mankind is drawn to sin through selfishness. These dark times, such as the one you are living in, create the most beautiful opportunities for holiness and sainthood. You look around and all seems hopeless. How challenging it is then to continue to hope and to allow My joy an avenue through which to flow into the darkness of your world. That, all by itself, is an opportunity for the holiest of acts, the most heroic deed of selflessness. If you are My friend, you have probably suffered. Do not see this as a bad thing. View this as having treasures that await you in heaven because truly, this is the case. Your suffering, done in union with Me, moves the Kingdom toward God the Father. Your suffering, done in union with Me, purifies your soul as it detaches it from the earth, aligning it with the next world. Your suffering, done in union with Me, has saved many souls, despite the fact that you cannot see this yet. There is much you cannot see yet and if I were to show you everything, the merit from your suffering would be diminished profoundly. You do not want that because just as this suffering is accomplishing all of these things for others, it is increasing your reward in heaven. You perhaps cannot picture your reward. It is a difficult thing for a child in exile to imagine what his family will be preparing for him upon his arrival home. You must believe that this child will not be disappointed. The heavenly existence is so far beyond the earthly existence in terms of joy and security that you cannot understand it. I will shed a small bit of light on it for you."
Lay apostles, are we storing up earthly treasures which will be left behind once we leave this earth? Or, are we working toward an eternity with Our Lord in paradise? No one knows their expiration date . . . let's try to live as if it is tonight at midnight!
Thank you, Lord, for the reminder in today's Gospel that heaven is the ultimate goal!
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Gospel Word Today: Weeds
Anyone who knows me well, knows I am a Kelly Clarkson fan. I have loved her music since she appeared on the first season of American Idol. Actually, I got to know every lyric to every song on her second album, Breakaway, when my youngest daughter went through a tough high school breakup years ago. The minute she would get in the car, the request was to blast Kelly. Eventually, all she had to do on emotional days was get in the car and say, "It's a Kelly day." I knew exactly what to do! Hence, when reading today's Gospel and saw the word "weeds," immediately my mind connected with a Kelly song called Sober. Here are a few of the lyrics:
The line bolded above describes exactly what we, as Christians, try to achieve every day . . . clean gardens, no weeds. Alas, as Kelly belts out above, it's never really over. We must remain alert and ready for battle every day we are on this earth, adorning ourselves with the armor of Jesus Christ and the Gospels. The Truth. Thank God I enjoy picking weeds . . . I have plenty to keep me busy!
I love the parable in today's Gospel (Matthew 13:36-43). An important reminder to sow good seeds:
Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field." He said in reply, "He who sows good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed the children of the Kingdom. The weeds are the children of the Evil One, and the enemy who sows them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear."
In the Monthly Message from March 1, 2007, Jesus calms us by assuring He is by our side always:
"Be at peace in the place where you are spiritually and understand that I am ministering to you constantly there. Be also at peace that you must labour for holiness, moving constantly forward in virtue. I am with you. I take your willingness to serve and your willingness to become holier and truly I flow great things into your soul and into the world. I ask that each apostle find quiet during this time, allowing silence to prune the weeds that spring up in each day’s activity. We work together on your soul, as I have said, and I, Jesus, expect that there is work to be done. If I did not expect that your soul needed work, I would say that you had advanced far enough and I would take you to heaven. When you see the condition of your soul and you correctly identify that there is work to be done and projects to undertake, rejoice. Compare your soul to My soul and you will see a glimpse of the completion of this project. You must say, ‘Truly, I trust that Jesus will get me there if I follow Him.’ I will not abandon the project of your holiness. Neither should you. The personal holiness of each apostle is given my greatest attention because each project in the world flows from this project in individual souls. Do you understand? Are you at peace with this? I need you to become holier each day so that I can become more present in the world each day. If you are new to the walk to holiness, rejoice. You are welcome and you will flourish. If you have been walking toward holiness for many years, rejoice. You are valued and you are making progress. Through you, I renew the world. Rejoice. My plan for you and for the world is well underway."
Lay apostles, is it time for a little gardening in your soul today? Yesterday at Adoration, I had a little weeding to do. It's not always easy to admit where I am getting it wrong, but doing so allows Jesus to move His Plan forward through me. Take a little silent time today. Even just a few minutes. Ask Christ to help you become holier so He can "become more present in the world each day."
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me to keep my spiritual armor on at all times. When I seem to have forgotten to strap it on, gently remind me, ok?
God bless,
Bonnie
I don't know
This could break my heart or save me
Nothing's real
Until you let go completely
So here I go with all my thoughts I've been saving
So here I go with all my fears weighing on me
Three months and I'm still sober
Picked all my weeds but kept the flowers
But I know it's never really over
This could break my heart or save me
Nothing's real
Until you let go completely
So here I go with all my thoughts I've been saving
So here I go with all my fears weighing on me
Three months and I'm still sober
Picked all my weeds but kept the flowers
But I know it's never really over
The line bolded above describes exactly what we, as Christians, try to achieve every day . . . clean gardens, no weeds. Alas, as Kelly belts out above, it's never really over. We must remain alert and ready for battle every day we are on this earth, adorning ourselves with the armor of Jesus Christ and the Gospels. The Truth. Thank God I enjoy picking weeds . . . I have plenty to keep me busy!
I love the parable in today's Gospel (Matthew 13:36-43). An important reminder to sow good seeds:
Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field." He said in reply, "He who sows good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed the children of the Kingdom. The weeds are the children of the Evil One, and the enemy who sows them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear."
In the Monthly Message from March 1, 2007, Jesus calms us by assuring He is by our side always:
"Be at peace in the place where you are spiritually and understand that I am ministering to you constantly there. Be also at peace that you must labour for holiness, moving constantly forward in virtue. I am with you. I take your willingness to serve and your willingness to become holier and truly I flow great things into your soul and into the world. I ask that each apostle find quiet during this time, allowing silence to prune the weeds that spring up in each day’s activity. We work together on your soul, as I have said, and I, Jesus, expect that there is work to be done. If I did not expect that your soul needed work, I would say that you had advanced far enough and I would take you to heaven. When you see the condition of your soul and you correctly identify that there is work to be done and projects to undertake, rejoice. Compare your soul to My soul and you will see a glimpse of the completion of this project. You must say, ‘Truly, I trust that Jesus will get me there if I follow Him.’ I will not abandon the project of your holiness. Neither should you. The personal holiness of each apostle is given my greatest attention because each project in the world flows from this project in individual souls. Do you understand? Are you at peace with this? I need you to become holier each day so that I can become more present in the world each day. If you are new to the walk to holiness, rejoice. You are welcome and you will flourish. If you have been walking toward holiness for many years, rejoice. You are valued and you are making progress. Through you, I renew the world. Rejoice. My plan for you and for the world is well underway."
Lay apostles, is it time for a little gardening in your soul today? Yesterday at Adoration, I had a little weeding to do. It's not always easy to admit where I am getting it wrong, but doing so allows Jesus to move His Plan forward through me. Take a little silent time today. Even just a few minutes. Ask Christ to help you become holier so He can "become more present in the world each day."
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me to keep my spiritual armor on at all times. When I seem to have forgotten to strap it on, gently remind me, ok?
God bless,
Bonnie
August Monthly Message!
Direction For Our Times
We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2017 with the message from August 1, 2009 for our prayer groups and personal reflection.
August 1, 2009
Jesus
Dearest apostles, I thank you for your efforts for Me. Do you see the fruit of your labors? Perhaps not. Perhaps you continue serving, living out your commitments with no understanding of how I bless the world through your service. I hear your sighs. I am with you in your uncertainty. In humanity, there is always uncertainty. In humanity, there is always doubt. There also comes fear and each human will experience heaviness in his heart someday. None of these things should persuade you that you are serving in vain. None of these things should distract you from a zealous representation of the Gospel message. You see, the message is so much bigger than each of you. And yet, each of you is necessary. The Gospel truth pushes itself into a world that craves truth, even while it rejects truth. You, beloved apostle, are part of that push. You will feel the strain in your body and soul. You will feel the sacrifice. If you did not feel any such strain or sacrifice, there would be cause for concern because living and spreading the Gospel is work. When you feel tired, remember that I also felt tired. Never separate your sufferings from My sufferings and you will be at peace, even as you carry your share of the cross for this time. I am with you, loving and sustaining you. I am ever watchful. When you need Me in a special way, you shall have Me, with every grace required. Do not be afraid of anything. I will never abandon you.
We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2017 with the message from August 1, 2009 for our prayer groups and personal reflection.
August 1, 2009
Jesus
Dearest apostles, I thank you for your efforts for Me. Do you see the fruit of your labors? Perhaps not. Perhaps you continue serving, living out your commitments with no understanding of how I bless the world through your service. I hear your sighs. I am with you in your uncertainty. In humanity, there is always uncertainty. In humanity, there is always doubt. There also comes fear and each human will experience heaviness in his heart someday. None of these things should persuade you that you are serving in vain. None of these things should distract you from a zealous representation of the Gospel message. You see, the message is so much bigger than each of you. And yet, each of you is necessary. The Gospel truth pushes itself into a world that craves truth, even while it rejects truth. You, beloved apostle, are part of that push. You will feel the strain in your body and soul. You will feel the sacrifice. If you did not feel any such strain or sacrifice, there would be cause for concern because living and spreading the Gospel is work. When you feel tired, remember that I also felt tired. Never separate your sufferings from My sufferings and you will be at peace, even as you carry your share of the cross for this time. I am with you, loving and sustaining you. I am ever watchful. When you need Me in a special way, you shall have Me, with every grace required. Do not be afraid of anything. I will never abandon you.
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