Gospel Thoughts Today: Worldly Distractions

Hypocrites. Such a strong word . . . a character trait to stay far away from. Here is Bing.com's definition:

Somebody feigning high principles: somebody who pretends to have admirable principles, beliefs, or feelings but behaves otherwise.

We all know someone like this or have even been one ourselves. As much as God is #1 in my life, I am and will always be a work in progress. My faith journey through this mission has taught me the importance of living the messages of Jesus and all of heaven. I admit I am far from perfect in executing this task. So when my passion flares (hey, I am part Italian with some Viking thrown in!) for situations I feel strongly about, some think my response is unloving and not "Christlike." 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 moments of being criticized now and know Jesus was/is toughening me up . . . to fight even harder for Him on a daily basis. He was/is teaching me humility and strength of character. He is leading me to a calmer, peaceful existence I never knew possible (thank God He blessed me with my amazing husband Jay!). Remember each of us is on a unique journey toward heaven. It may not always look the way we think it should. Instead, take a look inward and make a change in the only place we can . . . ourselves.

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 and yearns to respond accordingly. It's so easy to be distracted by the falsities. But when I take a moment to see through His Eyes, it is a much different view. I know I can't rescue everyone . . . but I can pray God blesses and protects them.

Thank you, Lord, for building my spiritual muscles over the last 13 years and the loving nudges when I look through my own eyes . . . not Yours.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Internal Discipline

Actions speak louder than words. Say what you mean and mean what you say, but don't be mean. Pretty basic concepts, right? I just finished reading Mitch Albom's book The Next Person You Meet in Heaven. It is the sequel to The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Wow. Just wow. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend doing so. My takeaway? We don't ever know exactly why other people make the decisions/choices they do . . . my guess is most are made to cope with human woundedness. Sometimes the truth is so painful, disguising it as anger, depression or lying seems easier. The problem is, if we don't demonstrate in our actions and words the love of Christ to our children and those around us, how can they move on to be good, kind and loving Christian people heading toward eternity with Christ? It's never too late to change behavior. It starts with me. It's never too late for internal discipline. 

Todays Gospel (Matthew 23:23-26) is all about cleaning up the inside to shine His light on the outside:

Jesus said: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You pay tithes of mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier things of the law: judgment and mercy and fidelity. But these you should have done, without neglecting the others. Blind guides, who strain out the gnat and swallow the camel! "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean."

In Anne a lay apostle's book Serving in Clarity, she shows us when we disregard how we treat others, let alone ourselves, we bruise our dear Jesus:

“Jesus pulls us in, close against Himself, even though in doing so the Lord risks injury. And it is true that we often wound Jesus. We wound Him intentionally, through sin, and unintentionally, through neglect and mistrust.”

Lay apostles, it takes time and discipline to make behavioral changes within ourselves. Instead of looking pious on the outside yet unholy on the inside, make a commitment to yourself to eliminate anything detrimental to your soul. There isn't one bad behavior/wound you cannot overcome with Jesus by your side, in your heart, and on your mind. Maybe you're thinking it's too late to change a behavior others have become accustomed to. The change would upset everything. Well, guess what? If you are making the the decision for Jesus, others will adapt. They may even agree it's the right decision! Making one small change today will bring you one step closer to a large change tomorrow.

Thank you, Lord, for giving me the courage and internal discipline I need to make important decisions with You in mind. And, for the graces You give me in return!

God bless,

Bonnie







Prayerfully posted by: Bonnie, lay apostle of JCRK at 11:50 AM

Gospel Thoughts Today: What is Your Focus?

As I contemplate what to write this morning, my thoughts are scattered. I have to keep repeating "FOCUS" to myself every time I get distracted. How ironic today’s Gospel is all about focusing on what is good for us spiritually. I am always open to what He sends my way to help me grow in humility, service, and love. Last year, Jay and I participated in a Bible study about the Psalms, a course taught by Jeff Cavins and Tim Gray. My biggest takeaway from the Psalms? That the Psalmists experienced the same issues we face today.  Part of the Psalms speak of overcoming fear by placing full trust in God, not an easy task at times.  And most importantly, praise and thank Him for everything, good and even the not so good. I must focus on changing hearts by spreading kindness in place of judgment; love instead of hatred; to serve rather than be served. When the focus is taken off of me and directed toward others, I accomplish just a small part of His Will for me on earth in that moment.

What is your focus? Todays Gospel (Matthew 23:13-22) makes it very clear:

Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You lock the Kingdom of heaven before men. You do not enter yourselves, nor do you allow entrance to those trying to enter.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You traverse sea and land to make one convert, and when that happens you make him a child of Gehenna twice as much as yourselves.

“Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If one swears by the temple, it means nothing, but if one swears by the gold of the temple, one is obligated.’ Blind fools, which is greater, the gold, or the temple that made the gold sacred? And you say, ‘If one swears by the altar, it means nothing, but if one swears by the gift on the altar, one is obligated.’ You blind ones, which is greater, the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred? One who swears by the altar swears by it and all that is upon it; one who swears by the temple swears by it and by him who dwells in it; one who swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who is seated on it.”

In Volume One, Anne a lay apostle has nailed spot on how we should all practice what Jesus has been trying to teach us all along:

"Jesus asks us to focus on people’s strengths and attributes, rather than their flaws. Shining a light on someone’s good qualities is like sunshine on plants. It makes them grow. If we focus on their flaws, or negative qualities, it has the same effect in a negative way. We must practice being supportive and not critical, even in the face of the faults of others." 

Lay apostles, don't waste precious time and energy holding grudges, harboring anger, or lashing out at those closest to you. It's time. Time to make a positive change in this world by focusing on others in need. It's time to stop being the "victim" and begin actions of compassion. The more given in service to others, the more graces He rewards to heal our own woundedness.

Thank you, Lord, for teaching me how to focus on the good and getting past all the old wounds and hurts. I am a work in progress, but my eyes are more in focus now!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Chosen Last

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.

Todays 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 above, 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

Gospel Thoughts Today: Possessions are Temporary

Last year we purchased a new car for me to drive. I had a 2004 Toyota Avalon that was approaching 14 years old and it was time for a change. Instead of selling it, we gave it to our son-in-law as his even older car was failing. My old Avalon has seen a lot over the last 15 years . . . two parents through end of life; daughters learning how to drive (scariest thing ever!); early morning school drop-offs and after school pickups; car seats housing my precious grandchildren. The list goes on and on. The embedded scratches on the bumper where I dragged wheelchairs in and out of my trunk for both parents at end of life covered with a new paint job years ago had appeared once again from dragging strollers in and out (man are they heavy now!). There will come a day when my old "girl" will lose her get up and go no matter how well it is maintained. But the memories . . . good and bad . . . will remain in my heart forever. Possessions are only "things" which will fade or break down over time. Love of Christ and commitment to Him will last an eternity.

Today's Gospel (Matthew 19:16-22) is truer today than ever before in history . . . more possessions, less God . . . when it should be just the opposite:

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 Monthly Message from October 2005, Jesus provides courage to find joy and peace in service, not possessions:

"I have willed a time of great joy for My beloved apostles. Joy is something that the world wishes to take from God’s children, but joy is available nonetheless. The world encourages souls to concentrate on comfort and earthly possessions. I ask you to concentrate on service. This is a marked contrast, is it not? Let me explain why concentrating on service brings you joy. If you rise each day and pledge allegiance to God, you will begin that day with more thought of serving than being served. In this way, you look at your day as an opportunity to work for heaven and to work for heaven’s children, your brothers and sisters. This perspective sends you into the day as a servant. When the day presents you with the inevitable opportunities to assist or console, or simply to be tolerant of your brothers or sisters, you do not view this as a burden, or an interruption in your entertainment and comfort, but as a request made to you directly from the Throne of your God. And fulfilling a request made to you by your God brings you joy. You serve heaven and we fulfill our part of the agreement by sending you joy. If all of God’s children were living this way, there would be great joy on earth and through this joy would come peace. But if even one of God’s children makes the commitment to serve as a beloved apostle, there is an increase of joy and an increase in peace. This is because an apostle does not become angry when he or she is inconvenienced. That apostle responds in calm trust when the world presents them with difficulty or even pain. There is no striking out at others. There is no rebelliousness. There is peace. The world is changing and it is changing one soul at a time. Join Me now and make a commitment to peace in your world. I will send it through you, My beloved apostles."

Lay apostles, think about what defines you today. If this were your last day on earth, what would those left behind say about you and your life? That you had a big house and a fancy car? Or, that you lived a life of love, kindness, service, and humility. I pray I am remembered by the latter.

Thank you, Lord, for opening my eyes to what is truly important . . . You and shining Your Light to others. And, the reminder that possessions are only temporary on this earth, unlike Your Love which endures forever.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Lessons from Failure

About 7 years ago I wrote the following blog post about divorce. The response was overwhelming, to say the least. The nastiness with which a few attacked was a shocker to an unseasoned writer back then. But the love and support from the majority of respondents were humbling. I am an imperfect person striving to be who Christ desires me to be. And, since this blog post in 2012, I am stronger, braver, and detached from negative comments when I speak my truth. I figure the attacker is fighting some kind of spiritual warfare and all I can do is pray for them (one of my lessons from failure). I also believe God wanted me to see that marriage is good, using Divine Intervention by placing Jay in my path! I am truly a blessed woman whose second half of life is filled with better and more God-centered decision-making skills! I am truly saved.

Divorced . . . But It Doesn't Define Me

Divorced once, what a shame.  Divorced twice, well . . . not something I want to reveal to the world.  Alas, the fact remains I am divorced twice.  I am not proud of this and wish it wasn't a reality. In fact, I used to cringe when people asked about my marital status.  I don't cringe anymore. As a matter of fact, if the situation merits, I divulge this little tidbit upfront. Within the first 5 minutes of meeting Jay and finding out he was Catholic, I leaned over and told him he should know my situation and asked if it mattered to him.  He responded by saying, "Is this the same Bonnie from the two previous marriages or a better version of Bonnie who has learned lessons and taken time for some spiritual healing?" Wow, huh? The thing is, divorce doesn't define who I am, just my journey. I wouldn't be who I am today if it wasn't for the lessons I've learned about myself through the divorces.  A few days ago Jay shared with me someone told him to look at exes as teachers, not enemies. I love this because after all is said and done, God is affectionately supplying necessary circumstances which will lead us to Him and our reliance on His graces to become whole again. Some of us have harder heads than others requiring desperate measures on His part.  Sometimes it takes hitting rock bottom to see the Light.

Today's Gospel (Matthew 19:3-12) is read in almost every Christian wedding ceremony. If only everyone listening took it to heart, divorce would be less common:

Some Pharisees approached Jesus, and tested him, saying, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause whatever?" He said in reply, "Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator made them male and female and said, For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate." They said to him, "Then why did Moses command that the man give the woman a bill of divorce and dismiss her?" He said to them, "Because of the hardness of your hearts Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.

The following quote from Anne a lay apostle’s book Climbing the Mountain gave me (and continues to give me) immense comfort at difficult times:

“Who can turn away from the love of Christ? Jesus loves with such acceptance. Living in unity with Jesus is like having the most perfect friend. He will never judge us harshly. Jesus sees our motives and understands that often we fail as the result of the wounds that have been inflicted on us. A treasured friend is this way and helps us to deal with our mistakes charitably because the close friend has been with us in our past and views us as a whole, made up of a lifetime of experiences. A treasured friend can usually guess what we will do in a given situation and this is the same with Jesus. Jesus allows us to be tried and He allows us to fail, often so that we will learn.”

Lay apostles, I'm pretty sure no one commits to marriage with divorce in mind.  Most importantly, remember divorce is a two-way street. Don't focus on the wrongdoing of your ex-spouse. When you discover the part you played in the demise, no matter how big or small, write it down. Pray about it.  Do a lot of spiritual reading.  Work on creating a better version of yourself.  We are all destined to fail once in a while. Thank God He is kind and merciful!

Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to fail. I know I had to experience the things I have in order to grow closer to You and find the love of my life, Jay.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Change with Jesus

Don't ask me why the song "Changes" by David Bowie came to mind after reading the Gospel today (Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14)! As I sit here contemplating the words below spoken by Christ, my thoughts are overwhelmed with our grandchildren . . . especially our youngest additions (both about to turn 5 next month)! The first child is definitely a big change . . . but the second child, well, it's all about time management. Change is good. Upon occasion, the changes we need to make elicit groans of growing pains . . . getting out of our comfort zone to become wiser, holier. Changes Jesus asks of us require being childlike, not childish. It's time, lay apostles, to see our faith through the eyes of a child. It's time to change behaviors which lead us away from Christ.

Gospel:

The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.”

In Anne a lay apostle's new book, Suspended in Mystery, a message from Jesus directs us in smooth transitions during times of change:

"I want to offer a promise to everyone who desires a relationship with me. My promise is this: I will thin your perception of distance between us. If you want to have a relationship with me that is intimate and constant, I will help you to remain disposed toward me. This is the time to rely on me. If you are struggling, then this is your answer. Come into a closer relationship with me, which I will support, and you will come to know me in a way that changes your perspective of your struggles and fills you with hope. I want this for you. Do you want this for you? Do you want this for me? Talk to me in your heart about your worries and hopes and I will show you how to change your life if it needs to change."

Lay apostles, change can be scary! Questions of doubt will swirl. What is our life going to be like if we change this behavior or that behavior? How are others going to judge the "new" me? Can I handle the change? Can I stick to the change? The answer to all of the above is "yes!" We can do anything through Christ who is our strength!

Thank you, Lord, for the perseverance to fight through changes in my life. I feel secure knowing Your Hands are lovingly redirecting when necessary!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Half-Truths

A few weeks ago I was reading "It's True" to my grandson (a Little Critter book series he LOVES!). Little Critter tells "half-truths" and his little sister calls him out every time. Then he tells a half-truth to his classmates . . . oh boy! Little Critter decides half-truths are actually lying. After reading the book, I asked my grandson what the lesson was . . . he said, "don't lie to anyone and not in front of my sister!" Out of the mouths of babes, right? Makes me immediately think of the #FakeNews displayed on just about every news channel. Partial truths are not the complete story. What has happened to true journalistic reporting? The successful news programs are the ones digging into the real truth. And, giving us explanations of what is really happening . . . what the truth means. The best news program with the most accurate reporting is YourVoiceAmerica.tv. The host, Bill Mitchell (Twitter: @mitchellvii) makes sense of the craziness for me. I rarely watch TV news anymore. So, as Little Critter learns, lying only provides temporary satisfaction and eventually, the truth comes out. My prayer is all the #FakeNews becomes #RealNews soon!

In today's Gospel (Matthew 17:22-27), Jesus teaches us honesty and integrity:

As Jesus and his disciples were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were overwhelmed with grief.

When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax approached Peter and said, “Does not your teacher pay the temple tax?” “Yes,” he said. When he came into the house, before he had time to speak, Jesus asked him, “What is your opinion, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take tolls or census tax? From their subjects or from foreigners?” When he said, “From foreigners,” Jesus said to him, “Then the subjects are exempt. But that we may not offend them, go to the sea, drop in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up. Open its mouth and you will find a coin worth twice the temple tax. Give that to them for me and for you.”

In Volume Four, God the Father gives His Children good advice:

"Children, if you are not following My words, if you are not united with Me, if you do not acknowledge and respect My dominion over both you and your world, you are going to be uncomfortable and frightened. These times are over. My time is coming. There will be gladness, it is true. It is what My children have prayed for. But change is difficult for those without a firm understanding and belief in the next world. If you were asked to hand your life to Me this day, and account for it fully, how would you feel? Would you feel calm? Would you feel confident that while you have made mistakes, you have done your best and can offer Me a fair trade for your eternal reward? Could you even say, “God, I have wasted much of My time here on earth but I see that you are the Creator and I bow before you?” That is all that is necessary for your salvation, child, but you are going to wish that you had a small bit of something to give Me. You might give Me your years parenting your children. You might offer Me your service in your job or your obedience and respect for your parents. You might give Me your patience with sickness or depression. You might say, “God, I have risen every day and tried not to be dishonest or hurtful to others, despite my pain and misery.” To all of these things, and to nearly every life that holds dignity and some measure of effort to be honest, I will say, “Welcome. Well done. It is over now and you are safe and loved.” I will hold you against Me and heal all of your wounds and pain. You will be lovingly prepared to enter into the Kingdom. Children, do not be afraid of leaving this world and entering the next. I will be there, waiting to receive each one of you."

Lay apostles, how are you going to conduct yourself today? Life is short. Let's not waste any time with telling half-truths!

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of the Gospels. Help me to focus on truth and dignity in Your Name!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Suffering with Hope

Suffering is inevitable. Each of us has suffered in one way or another. It's how we handle the suffering as we experience it that sets us apart from either a life of hope or of despair. Despair is defined as the complete loss or absence of hope. Despair sees no end to the suffering; it sees others at fault instead of looking within; it sees no Jesus by your side to navigate the course. Hope, on the other hand, means a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen; a feeling of trust. If we trust Jesus as much as we say we do, this is a no brainer. I'm not saying this is easy, just clearly defined in my eyes. If you are suffering, have hope. Hope that things will get better; hope that lessons being taught are learned; hope in being Face to face with Our Beloved Savior one day. For me, I want to hear Him say I suffered with hope the day I finally go home.

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 Anne a lay apostle's new book Suspended in Mystery, she clearly defines how to move past suffering:

"It is natural to live gratitude and love when you know Christ. But the sufferings which come, that is, the ever-changing external environments must be negotiated honestly. We must not deny suffering or its impact. rather, we practice overcoming the negative effects it can have on our hope."

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/Anne's books 40 years ago. I don't think I would have suffered so despairingly in my younger years.

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

Gospel Thoughts Today: Keys to the Kingdom

Right now I am sitting next to my 7-year-old grandson while he plays a Hot Wheels video game on my iPad so I can check emails and contemplate the Gospel today . . . not an easy thing to do since he gets frustrated when he either crashes his car or his competition is beating him. This happens about every 30 seconds . . . I don't know why my car is going so slow!!! . . . The other car keeps beating me! . . . Oh, c'mon, my car keeps dying! My response? You are learning each new track and you always make it to the next level! You are doing great, buddy!  His response? No, Mimi! I'm not very good!  Then, within about 30 seconds of that response from him, I hear . . . I beat him, Mimi!! Look! I took 1st place!

We all need just a little more faith in ourselves and Jesus, don't we? Think about the faith Peter had to have when Jesus bestowed upon him "the keys to the Kingdom of heaven!" Kind of a heavy load, but with his faith secure in Christ, he knew he could do it. Most importantly, Jesus knew he could do it.

In today's Gospel (Matthew 16:13-19) Jesus shows us how faith in Him leads us to the gates of heaven:

When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply,  “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” 

In Anne a lay apostle's new book Suspended in Mystery, she consoles my heart knowing Jesus provides constant companionship:

"Jesus attempts to restore us to Christian homeostasis. He restores our peace, trust, and confidence in our place in the Kingdom as we bring about greater graces for the world through our adoration of him and our companionship with him. He offers graces to the world in an explosive response to our adoration of him in the eucharist."

Lay apostles, have faith in Christ as He has faith in you. He wants every one of us to strive for heaven, no matter the frustrations along the way. Keep persevering, my friends! He will lead us home!

Thank you, Lord, for the blessings of my beautiful grandchildren and the lessons in faith they provide when I least expect it!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: A Compassionate Heart

Lost sheep. Wounded little boys and girls carrying out their lives without ever healing from childhood hurts. Being a lay apostle means taking responsibility for our actions and words. And most importantly, striving for a compassionate heart. I can imagine Jesus looking down on our world today, His heart 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 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 and continues to love us from heaven. We can't 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. 

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 Anne a lay apostle's new book Suspended in Mystery, Jesus directs us to compassion: 

“When we gaze into a still lake, we can see our own reflection. I am that way, too. When you gaze at my figure on the cross, you see me, and my love for you, but you also come to see yourself reflected back. Spending time with me acts as a mirror and you begin to understand yourself better. Why is this important? Because when you understand my physical brokenness on the cross and feel compassion for me, you come to understand your own brokenness and feel compassion for yourself. I want this for you. I want you to be loving toward yourself and understanding and compassionate. When you accept that I submitted to a plan that was bigger than one day, you can learn that your difficult days also contribute to a greater plan than you can see in one moment. You can learn to trust in God’s outcomes, even when your life seems full of pain and suffering and uncertainty. God’s outcomes are so full of love and truth that any suffering is quickly obscured. When you can see the value in suffering, it becomes easy to bear, such as physical labor for a physical goal. ‘It is worth it’, one thinks to one’s self. When you can see no value to suffering, such as in the case when innocence is offended and injured, there is a great need to trust in the certainty that the Father will bring both healing and justice. This need is the difference between peace and often grave disturbance and even torment. The Father wills recovery for all. Recovery is available and it is a certainty in the heavenly kingdom. But often, through prayer, recovery comes on Earth, and any suffering you endure contributes to enormous development. I want this for you. I want you to benefit from any cross you have carried. I want you to know that I am with you in any cross you carry today. I will lead you to the answers just as the Father led me through my life. I have the answers for you."

Lay apostles, is there someone in your life who has hurt or offended you? Have you hurt or offended someone? Do you have compassion for yourself? As Jesus says in the quote above, "I want you to be loving toward yourself and understanding and compassionate." How can we be compassionate toward others if not compassionate to ourselves? Strive for the Heart of Christ. 

Thank you, Lord, for reminding me to love and not hate. To have compassion for myself on this journey. To pray for bitter people or those trying to alter my journey to holiness. And . . . remember the importance of dusting off my sandals, moving on to the next adventure! 

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Be Honorable

The word "honor" grabbed my attention in the Gospel today. There were those who didn't honor Christ when He walked this earth . . . when they could actually touch Him, see Him and listen to Him. So, 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 avoid making 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 historically #MAGA President will become apparent! Seek the good, always. Be honorable in all you do and say.

Today's Gospel (Matthew 13:54-58) illustrates how painful (or disappointing) the lack of honor from His own people must have felt for our dear 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, including our President? How are you honoring yourself? I achieve more when I stay focused on Christ. Today, do an "honor" check in your life . . . how can you improve?

Thank you, Lord, for showing me continually the sacrifices You made for me and all mankind. Help me remember to honor You at all times, in any situation.

God bless,
Bonnie