Lent Day 6 - Inheritance

My word from the Gospel today: Inherit

This year will be the 10th anniversary of my mother's death. Hard to believe the time has flown by so quickly. My mother suffered many tragedies as a child, inducing a lifetime of mental illness. But there was one thing she was very clear on . . . her inheritance in heaven. She would always say, considering she was an orphan and a widow (after my father died), she surely would have the greatest riches in heaven. I remember thinking she might be spending a bit of time in purgatory before seeing those riches, but nevertheless, I knew she was right. So many search for their inheritance here on earth . . . thinking more money in their bank account means a better life. I've seen and heard about families feuding over an item left behind . . . coveting a material object instead of comforting each other for their loss of a loved one. It's time to let go of material things and start focusing on our heavenly inheritance. I will leave you with this quote from the movie Bella. The main female lead, Nina, says "I've done the research and ten out of ten people die." We are all heading in the same direction toward eternal life . . . we only have this one chance to aim for heaven. 

Today's Gospel (Matthew 25:31-46) couldn't be any clearer, and make my choice any easier . . . I want to be on the right side:

Jesus said to his disciples: "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him.  And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father.
Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.' Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you?  When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?' And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.' Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.' Then they will answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?' He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.' And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

God the Father in Volume Three speaks words of comfort, filled with Fatherly Advice:

"In heaven, you will have instant and constant communication with Me. We will take such joy in each other, dear children. There is a complete absence of want in heaven. You will search in vain for the poor, the troubled, and the sick. Everywhere you look you will view another tableau of peace and serenity. Souls will seek knowledge and find it. Souls will seek wisdom and obtain it. Souls will seek understanding from others and others will instantly understand them. Such sympathetic listening will take place in heaven, My children. You will know nothing of anxiety for loved ones in heaven because all will be well and all will be decided. There will be no uncertainty in the hearts of My children. Dear ones, this is your destiny. This is your inheritance for which you were created. Your time on earth is a small capsule of time designed to give you the opportunity to obtain your place in heaven. Use the gifts I have given you and you will find no limit to what you can achieve on earth. All heavenly help is available."

Lay apostles, today when thinking about our heavenly inheritance, think about loved ones who have gone before us. Think about how much they may have suffered on earth. Then reread the excerpt from Volume Three above. I know my mom is finally where she always longed to be . . . home in eternity with her Beloved Jesus.

Thank you, Lord, for all the wisdom in Your Gospels and in the Volumes. I can't imagine life without them. And, thank you for reminding me about what is waiting when I return home some day!

God bless,
Bonnie

Lent Day 3 - Mourn

Weekly Adoration is invaluable. It's water to a thirsty soul . . . quiet time for just Jesus and me. My typical hour consists of first, the Rosary. Then, going through all family members/friends and praying for any intentions they may have or need. The hour usually flys by quickly. 

For Christmas this year, my daughter Whitney and my grandson Colt and granddaughter Savannah made me a Rosary. It bears the names of 4 little human beings I love and treasure with all my heart!

This past Tuesday Jay and I were visiting the Blessed Sacrament. I prayed my Rosary as I always do. Each decade I say a prayer for the grandchild whose name is colorfully displayed. After finishing the Sorrowful Mysteries, something made me get up to light candles, which I do sometimes, but not every visit. I felt drawn to light 4 candles specifically for my daughter Whitney, son-in-law Kevin, Colton and Savannah. As I approached my seat next to Jay, he whispered Kevin was calling my cell. By the time I reached for my phone, Kevin was calling Jay's cell. He stepped out and took the call. Jay returned and motioned for me to grab my things and come out. I knew something was wrong. Our baby Savannah (2 yrs old) was en route to the hospital via ambulance.  She had spiked a fever and became cyanotic (turning blue). We met them at the ER to find out it was a febrile seizure (A febrile seizure, also known as a fever fit or febrile convulsion, is a seizure associated with a high body temperature but without any serious underlying health issue. They most commonly occur in children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years). On the drive home, I could not stop thanking Our Merciful Lord for quick recovery and that this was not something life threatening. 

After reading today's Gospel (Matthew 9:14-15), the word "mourn" struck me . . . one minute my sweet grandbaby is in the ER, the next day I was playing Barbies with her as I gave her a bath. I was overwhelmed with gratitude and thanksgiving in that moment and that's why the word "mourn" stood out today. Each day should be filled with thankfulness for our loved ones because, in a blink, any one of us can be called home. Why spend the time mourning what could be when we have them flesh and blood with us today?

The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?" Jesus answered them, "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?

The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast."

In Volume Four, Jesus tells us to mourn no more:

"Children of the world, look toward the light. Raise your eyes to all that is goodness. I come to you with joy and celebration. The time for mourning is past because God has taken His children back to His breast, never to be parted."

Lay apostles, let us celebrate all the Lord has blessed us with. We are surrounded by love always. God IS Love. He never leaves our side. Even in our darkest (or scariest) times, He is there to comfort if we only let Him. 

Thank you, Lord, for healing our baby girl Savannah. Please continue to protect her and our three grandsons so they grow up to live lives of faith and love of You.  

God bless,

Bonnie

Lent Day 2 - Rejection

The political atmosphere we encompass daily now is a barrage of negativity and, yes, fake news. Why are the people being paraded across social media so angry and violent? It has grown into brutal verbal and even physical attacks if one side doesn't agree with the other. In order to recoup my peace, I am finding the need to disconnect from the chaos (at least for an hour or so!) and focus on Jesus. As I read today's Gospel, the word "rejection" jumped out at me. I began thinking about the people "rejecting" our President and his desire to fix America. This question popped into my head: How do I act when I'm rejected? I'm hurt, I'm sad, or I'm annoyed. But through my faith (and with age), I have learned to subdue the pangs of rejection through prayer and thanksgiving for all the love that surrounds me.  There are many wounded people whose only recourse for their candidate losing the election is to make others feel as bad as they do. It's as if they themselves have been rejected. Many don't have Jesus to navigate out of the spiraling negativity. Many don't even have parents, a spouse, a significant other . . . someone to help ease the pain and confusion. The Son of Man endured rejection and He was Perfect, so why wouldn't His Words lead us in the right direction? There is Light at the end of the tunnel. And Jesus, the Most Experienced One, advises us in the Gospel (Luke 9:22-25) today:

Jesus said to his disciples: "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes,
and be killed and on the third day be raised."

Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?"

In Anne a lay apostle's book Lessons in Love, she beautifully illustrates how Our Lord's unconditional love for His Children should inspire us to follow in His Footsteps:

"The greater the love we feel for others, the greater the craving for a reciprocal response of love. Our craving does not ensure that we will receive that which we crave, any more than the Lord’s craving for love from each man is satisfied. Happily, Jesus teaches us as much in rejection as He teaches us in acceptance, that is, the experience of rejection, being so consistent with the ongoing experience of Jesus Christ by humanity, enables us to further identify with the crucified Christ. When the Lord suffered Calvary, He suffered or experienced near-total rejection. This was His experience of it in His humanity, even though we know that not all mankind rejects Christ. Did this cause Him to return rejection or abandon His love for us? No. On the contrary, in the acceptance of those who rejected Him, Jesus set an example of heavenly and unconditional love. Jesus’ acceptance of the rejection of others in no way diminished His craving for the love of humanity. He craved love in both His humanity and His divinity until the moment of His death. He continues to crave our love and safety. The more we possess Christ, the more we recognize Christ and love Him in others."

Lay apostles, contemplate the Gospel today and remember how Jesus handled life's difficulties. Strive for unconditional love in every situation. As hard as that is to do at times, we should always attempt it when the opportunity arises! Remember, WWJD?

Thank you, Lord, for all the lessons in the Gospels. The are the salve to my pain and the icing on my cake!

God bless,
Bonnie

Monthly Message - March

We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2017 with the message from March 1, 2009 for our prayer groups and personal reflection.

March 1, 2009

Jesus

My children, your work stretches out before you. How many serve? How many resist My will for them? When you consider others who do not seem to be serving Me, I want you to turn your face away. I want you to consider only My will for you in a given moment. This will protect you from many temptations. You can answer Me with simplicity when I ask you at the end of the day, “Have you served Me well today? ”You can simply say, “Yes, Lord. I have done My best.” Then you can lay down your worries and rest. Beloved apostles of God, do not be distracted by others. I know this is hard for you. I know that others can cause you upset. But if you consider how I have asked you to experience others, you will do better. I want you to view those around you as pilgrims journeying toward Me. That is what you are, after all. Can you deny others the need to move gradually to perfection when you, yourself are doing the same? You are involved in a process which means that you remain imperfect. Why would it be different for those around you? You have come to trust My loving compassion, My forgiveness and My uninterrupted affection. That is because you have come to know Me. If others do not know Me as well as you do, they will trust Me less. If they trust Me less, they will experience fear and this will cause them difficulty which moves out from the fear to greater and greater pain. If My apostles will accept that fear of being unloved is the source of great pain for others, My apostles will view the mistakes of others with compassion, as I do. Yes, the pain of humanity can only be remedied by loving compassion. This is why you are sent out by Me. You move into the world with heaven’s healing compassion. My apostles, perhaps you do not feel this compassion from others. Perhaps you feel that you are in need of compassion and find only condemnation. I make two remarks about this. One, please be willing to ask for understanding from other holy apostles and then accept what they offer to you in humility. Next, ask Me if I am judging you. Ask Me if I view you harshly. You know that I do not. I am pleased with whatever you offer Me in terms of fidelity and service. I am pleased with whatever you give to Me in terms of prayer and silence. I work so well in your little soul when you allow Me. I feel the greatest compassion for you. I am happy with your efforts to be holy and to love those around you. I rejoice in you. I rejoice in your commitment to Me. I urge you today in the most serious way to trust Me and trust in My plan for you.

Children of Mexico International

Good morning lay apostles! Today is Ash Wednesday and what better time to contemplate how to use the gifts God has blessed you with than to contribute time/money/prayers to a beautiful mission I learned about when writing my first book, Heavenly Healing. Margarita Fajardo gave her testimony for my book and her story was inspirational. She is one of the most humble servants of Christ I have been given the blessing of knowing. Here is a quick overview of her mission from their website:

The Children of Mexico International Story

On one of her many trips to Guadalajara, Mexico, California native and seasoned speech pathologist, Margarita Fajardo, had a life-altering experience when she visited an orphanage and met a young girl named Conchita. Conchita, born with cerebral palsy, was abandoned at the city dump.

Fortunately, a garbage collector found her and she was then given a home along with 19 other disabled children and young adults at a home called “Bienaventurados de Jesus.” The following year Margarita returned, bringing with her more therapists and equipment to help improve the lives of all the children thereby enhancing their communication skills. Thus, Children of Mexico International was created.

If you are interested in helping Margarita and her team, you can reach her at Tel: (650) 784 6092 or email: childrenofmex@gmail.com.

Click on this link to download the Application to join this beautiful mission here: https://www.childrenofmex.org/apply

God bless,
Bonnie

Ash Wednesday 2017 - What is Your Word?

My husband Jay, my sister Diane and I attended a Catholic seminar with Jeff Cavins a few weeks ago . . . a dynamic speaker with a great sense of humor! My sister had experienced Jeff's Great Bible Adventure series years ago and raved her knowledge of the Bible grew into a yearning to learn more about our faith and Our God. There were so many "pearls" we walked away with that day, one of them being his recommendation to read the daily Gospel, decipher what word jumped out at you, write it down and contemplate what God is trying to teach you with that word. Part of my Lenten journey is to put this into practice. So today, the word jumping out at me is "hypocrites." As I sat to contemplate this word, immediately my thoughts went to my loved ones. How many times do I pray they become holier? That they love Jesus and demonstrate it in their actions? I'm thinking Jesus needed me to see where I was being hypocritical in thinking I know what they lack and where they need to improve! I can only control my own holiness journey. I am not walking in anyone else's shoes but my own. The word hypocrite today means, for me, to pray more . . . and to focus on my own journey toward eternity.

In today's Gospel (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18), Jesus is very clear . . . the internal journey toward salvation is what He asks us to concentrate on:

Jesus said to his disciples: "Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.

"When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.

"When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.
But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you."

The quote below from Anne a lay apostle's book Lessons in Love connected the Gospel and my "word" perfectly, further defining my contemplation:

"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. What is the Lord’s experience of this time? I believe

that the Lord sees many of His children living outside of the safety of His Church and He is sorrowful. Why is He sorrowful? Is it because Jesus wants to control people? Is it because Jesus wants to be justified and powerful? Is He concerned about His glory? Hardly. Jesus is sorrowful because He wants to provide safety for His children and He cannot protect us when we reject Him. I believe that the Lord sees the spiritual and emotional and even physical danger of life lived in rebellion and He mourns our denial of these realities. What will help? Do we need more people preaching the Gospel? Yes. We do. At once. We need more truth tellers and fewer hypocritical representations of Christ. Do we need those preaching the Gospel to be humble? Yes. We require an increase in humility and a decrease in arrogance. The fact that those living in rebellion can be aggressive and hurtful is no excuse for us to respond with aggression and hurtfulness. We are called to be different. We should be different. Do we need greater obedience to the Magisterium of the Church? Yes. Only God knows how damaging the level of disobedience has been. Those serving in the Church who openly reject the teaching of the Church are hurting the Lord’s cause terribly. We are called to put on the mind of Christ, not the mind of the world. We just cannot all be leaders. Some of us have to follow. That is the point of the whole exercise ... to follow Christ as He manifests Himself through the teachings of the Church. Do we need more prayer? Yes. This is a compelling need for every Catholic. Less talk, more listening to heaven. We need all kinds of prayer in our days. If we learn to pray, we will learn to listen to the Holy Spirit and serve as He wills, not as we will."

Lay apostles, how are you planning to grow closer to Our Lord this Lent? What has worked for you in the past? I love suggestions on increasing holiness! I am excited to get back on track with writing my daily blog and contemplating the "word" Jesus is trying to highlight to open my heart and mind to what He wants for me!

Thank you, Lord, for all the beautiful men and women You have brought into my life to educate and enrich my spiritual journey.

God bless,

Bonnie

The Power of God

It never fails. When things seem to be going smoothly, evil will, in all likelihood, cause a hiccup! And the hiccup always has to do with another's behavior in opposition of my core beliefs. There is appropriate behavior which I may not be in agreement with, but I respect because we are all individuals with our own way of doing things. Then there is inappropriate behavior . . . behaviors I avoid at all costs. When they are demonstrated right before my eyes, my immediate thought is "SERIOUSLY?" But then the Good Lord steps in to calm me down. All I have to do is start writing my blog post for the day and He always sends the calm I need. There will always be those demonstrating inappropriate behavior as in the parable from the Gospel today (Mark 12:1-12). Jesus can only do so much with me . . . it's my free will I am in control of and in need of remembering to focus on Him when others try to disrupt my peace:

Jesus began to speak to the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenant farmers and left on a journey. At the proper time he sent a servant to the tenants to obtain from them some of the produce of the vineyard. But they seized him, beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. Again he sent them another servant. And that one they beat over the head and treated shamefully. He sent yet another whom they killed. So, too, many others; some they beat, others they killed. He had one other to send, a beloved son. He sent him to them last of all, thinking, ‘They will respect my son.’ But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ So they seized him and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come, put the tenants to death, and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this Scripture passage:

The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes?”

They were seeking to arrest him, but they feared the crowd, for they realized that he had addressed the parable to them. So they left him and went away.

In Anne a lay apostle's book The Mist of Mercy, her point is eloquently made . . . there is always going to be disruption in our lives . . . it's how we handle it that matters:

"During periods of duress, it is important that we be very gentle with ourselves. We must not condemn ourselves or judge ourselves more harshly than the Lord judges us. The enemy delights when we think, poor me. I’m not holy enough. Surely the Lord should cast me out of the family. Surely the Lord can do without the service of one who fails as I have just failed. We will all fail. We will at times lose patience with others. We will also, at times, mistakenly take the bait from the enemy and be drawn into upset and disorder. There are times when we will be the cause of the upset and disorder. But to beat ourselves up over failures is to prolong the enemy’s influence. Jesus has no need of perfect apostles or He would have created some. He needs us, in all of our imperfection. And He needs us to be humble so we must rejoice when we experience our humanity. If nothing else, mistakes remind us that Christ is King and we are not. Remember, too, that Jesus allows attacks. The devil has no power that Christ does not allow him. Jesus allows us to experience spiritual warfare so that we can grow in holiness and trust. With regard to spiritual warfare, my spiritual director often says, “Expect it. Count on it. See it coming.” We must expect resistance and become adept at weathering storms. It is terrifically helpful to have humility. Ask God for humility each day as without it you will be vulnerable. It is a standing joke in our family that a request to heaven for humility is usually answered within minutes. If you lack humility, my friends, you will inevitably land on your backside. In fairness, we all land like that at times. Our humanity guarantees it. Be assured though, that a lack of humility insures a far more painful
landing."

Lay apostles, spiritual warfare is all around us. Today, take it for what it is . . . evil trying to disrupt our peace. Focus on Christ and His Will. Please Him in every reaction, every word coming from your mouth. When I practice this way of thinking (and I am far from perfect in doing this!), things seem to blow over much quicker! The power of God and His Mercy are abundant!

Thank you, Lord, for all the comfort and protection You give me in times of angst.

God bless,
Bonnie

God's Love Flows Through Us

Happy New Year 2017! Hard to believe so much time has elapsed since my last post. Life has been busy, wonderful, challenging, miraculous and a list of many other adjectives I could formulate in my head! If you follow me on Twitter (@bonnieyoung22), you know my joy and excitement for the results of the presidential election (#MAGA!!!). For me, it was all about pro-life agendas, retaining our religious liberties, the appointment of conservative Supreme Court Justices to uphold the law, and a president who is pro-America. I truly believe there were so many people praying for President-elect Donald J. Trump to win, the Good Lord decided to give us a miracle! The power of prayer hopefully has been restored in many who have put it on the back burner. God IS mightier than those who oppose Him . . . we must never forget that. God's Love flows through us if we allow it to. And, we must give it freely . . . even to those who allow evil to reign in their lives. If we stop the flow of God's love and replace it with revenge, hatred, or bitterness, how will the recipient ever see the beauty of faith in our Mighty God? Let it begin with me!

Today's Gospel (Mark 1:7-11) makes one thing clear . . . God is in control:

This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: "One mightier than I is coming after me.  I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals.  I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John.  On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him.  And a voice came from the heavens, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."

In Anne a lay apostle's book Whispers From the Cross, she beautifully illustrates God's power within each of us:

"There are days when the work we do for God is so steady that we do not look around. We serve without interruption, giving little thought to the bigger canvas on which God uses us to paint His story of renewal.

Sometimes we work very hard for long periods and during these periods God gives us all that we need to persist in His service. We have, during these periods of intensive service, little time to examine why we are serving God or what else we could be doing. We simply work. All is well. During these periods, God often withholds temptations of the more sublime variety, the “Do I really want to remain on this current course?” temptations. We barrel through the work, and God flows through us mightily even though we can be largely unaware of this. After a time, we get tired. Then comes a natural break. This can come in the form of an in-between period, or it is a time-off period. Perhaps we suffer with illness or a transition of service occurs. At those times, the floodgates can open.

God then allows us to struggle with the temptations necessary to secure our future service. The story with holiness, while written in the present, is concluded in the future. In other words, the end of the story is directly correlated to the action of the present. What will the end look like? That depends on what we choose today. The struggle we all experience of revulsion for the work that God wills for us is part of the work."

Lay apostles, what are you going to do differently in 2017? For me, I will, to the best of my ability, write more; love unconditionally (yes, I really try to pray for HRC!); be a better wife, mother, Mimi, sister, aunt and friend. I am so imperfect. But if I allow God to flow through me to others, His Divine Plan can continue to move forward in my life and the lives of those I love and come in contact with.

Thank you, Lord, for the reminder of the power of prayer. Help me to come to You first always!

God bless,
Bonnie

A Lesson in Parenting

From a motherly perspective, it's very difficult to watch children struggle with life issues, especially as adults. Most Christian parents pray their children grow up to be happy, healthy, and successful with Christ as their center. Some stay on track, but some stray off the path. Contemplating my younger days, I find myself apologizing to my parents (in heaven) for all the heartache I must have caused in my teen years. Although most of my bad behavior was to escape my dysfunctional home . . . a mother with severe mental illness and a father who just wanted to escape, I try to imagine how out of control my mother must have felt when she saw the damage I inflicted upon myself during the tough times in our family. It must have broken her heart that there was nothing she could do, just as it breaks mine when one of our daughters suffers. But we must follow the example of the Blessed Mother after she received the gut-wrenching news in today's Gospel. Despite hearing the dreadful words regarding Jesus's fate (and hers as well), she stayed connected to God knowing all the pain and suffering would bring about New Life. Just as our children have life lessons to learn and grow, we must remember to stay focused on Christ, trusting He is using these experiences to draw them closer to Him, just as our own life lessons have brought us to where we are today. 

Today's Gospel (Luke 2:33-35) is a lesson in parenting . . . stay strong and keep praying:

Jesus’ father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

In Volume Five, Jesus assures that if we offer our concerns to Him, He will use them to lead us to live holier lives:

"Dear souls, conduct yourselves with dignity. Be calm and recollected. Be thoughtful in everything and make decisions prayerfully, always seeking My counsel. I do not want My followers to be overly excited. I do not want My followers to spread bad news in order to incite hysteria.
There are changes coming, yes, but these changes are necessary and your Jesus is always looking out for the best possible environment for your soul to develop the greatest degree of holiness. I will see to every situation that you give Me control over. Be in the habit of constantly
giving Me your concerns and this habit will be then so ingrained that during difficult times, the practice will come naturally."

Lay apostles, are you struggling with something today? If you are, ask Jesus to take control of the situation. Pray for heavenly assistance every time that issue pops into your head. It's surprising how much relief heaven is ready to provide if we just ask. 

Thank you, Lord, for being the salve for my heart when difficulties arise. I know my children are in Good Hands. 

God bless,
Bonnie

Jesus Doesn't Condemn . . . He Saves

Rejection of God and faith is rampant in the news and social media . . . some comments outright, some disguised as human rights. As much as this can be discouraging, it ultimately is calling all Christians to action. How can we make a difference in this world? Seems like a feat too big to tackle alone, but alas . . . we are not alone! Jesus promises us He is always by our side. And that gives me the confidence to go out into the world spreading Christ's Love to the best of my ability. It may be in a kind word to a stranger, kissing a boo-boo on my grandson's knee, apologizing when I misspeak. Whatever my small part in this life entails, I want to live it as He wishes. Reading the Volumes pretty much spells it out as does the Bible. Any effort for Christ doesn't go unrecognized . . . by Him, and those we encounter on a daily basis.

In reading today's Gospel (John 3: 13-17), I find myself looking for opportunities to shine His Light:

Jesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

In the Monthly Message from September 2011, Jesus provides food for my soul to continue serving Him:

"It is with joy that I speak with you today. When I contemplate your fidelity to My plan for mercy, I feel joy. When I contemplate your fidelity to holiness, I feel joy. Do not pause in your commitment to becoming holier. This calm movement into the Spirit of gentleness and kindness should help you to view others with compassion, yes, but also yourself. Do you view yourself with compassion? Do you offer kindness and mercy toward yourself when you contemplate your condition? My friends, My dearest friends, be careful to view yourself as I view you. Be careful not to view yourself in harsh light that seeks to condemn. If you are tempted against mercy for yourself, then truly, you are tempted against truth. Because it is only with mercy and love that I greet your
present condition and your attempts to advance in holiness. I am love. I could hardly ask you to love others and then withhold love from you. That would be a flawed plan, destined to fail. My plan is perfect. I give you a receptive heart, you receive My love in abundance, and then stand for Heaven to be a well on earth which both stores and distributes love. Beloved apostle, search your heart today. If you do not find mercy and compassion for yourself in your heart, come to Me at once and ask Me to give these things to you. My plan for you and for the world will not advance as quickly as necessary if you do not accept your present condition and understand My perfect love for you. Your potential for holiness has not yet been fully achieved, of course, and I want you to advance. And I ask that you do so in confidence, joy and hope. Rejoice. I am with you."

Lay apostles, today let's work on not condemning others flaws and especially our own. We are human and God knows we are imperfect. That's the beauty of it . . . love despite the flaws! Start the kindness within first. It makes loving others a much easier task.

Thank you, Lord, for all the mercy and love You have for Your Children. Please continue to correct my path to Yours when I veer off in the wrong direction!

God bless,

Bonnie

Peace Particularly During This Election Cycle!

This election year already has me exasperated! But I support our Republican candidate, Donald Trump. He may have a big ego; he may be politically incorrect. But he is the only candidate who offers some respite from the presidency of the last 8 years. I find my blood pressure rising when praise for the Democratic candidate is splashed all over the media. I don't have a problem with a female president. Not at all! I just don't want a woman who is pro-abortion (including late term abortion), an elitist, disrespects the truth, and is an unindicted criminal to bat. What is our society not seeing when her face appears on all liberal news stations? She's a woman so her criminal activity doesn't matter? Despite the political warfare occurring, I know God is in control. My only comfort is He has a plan . . . and it includes everything we experience every day we are on this earth. So I have a choice . . . pray for Mr. Trump and his family or fret about our country spiraling out of control if the Democratic candidate is chosen. I am choosing prayer! It's all any of us can do. So, Mr. Trump, I pray for you, your family, Mr. Pence, his family . . . and I pray for the Clintons. We need God back in this country, and Mr. Trump may be the only one to shift this country back to the faith it was founded on . . . Christianity.

In today's Gospel (Matthew 16:24-28), Jesus asks us to focus on our beautiful eternity, not on the chaos of the world:

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, these are challenging times. As Jesus says above, He is missing in this world. Our part of this political warfare over the next 3 months is to allow God to work through us to change minds and hearts. Alas, there is no need for anger or frustration. Stay focused on Him and your eternity; make choices with Him in mind; and pray my friends! 

Thank you, Lord, for Your continued patience when I let propaganda interfere with my peace. Help me to stay focused on You and prayer, always!

God bless,

Bonnie

Monthly Message for August

We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2016 with the message from August 1, 2008 for our prayer groups and personal reflection.

August 1, 2008

Jesus

My dear ones, I am with you in your struggles. How can I help you to understand that your struggles are necessary to your holiness? Perhaps you should simply trust Me and view your struggles as evidence that I continue working to perfect your soul. If there were no struggle, My little apostles, there could be no possibility of advancement. This is a time to make great gains in holiness but gains are only possible with effort. I am making every effort toward you. Are you making efforts to move closer to Me? Ask yourself today and each day, ‘Where is God asking me to be holier today?’ Perhaps it is charity, perhaps patience, possibly trust, maybe you should practice concentrating on your holiness and refrain from examining the work needed in other people. Oh, My dear apostles, if you could only see how desirable holiness is to heaven. If you could only see how beautiful you are when you are looking up to heaven with an honest desire to become holier. When you become distracted, My heart sighs. And yet I am patient with you. I know that My little ones want to serve Me. I know that My little ones struggle to absorb the truth about holiness. And that is why I am patient. I am patient because you are trying. Continue trying, dear apostles. Walk bravely into holiness. Be fearless in examining your condition. If you do so, I will surround you with love so that you do not become discouraged, but emboldened. You will become emboldened to strive for greater and greater heights of holiness and greater and greater heights of humility. How heaven will rejoice as the King’s apostles relinquish their ties to the world and attach themselves more fully to heaven’s work. Heaven’s work will always involve two goals, one, the holiness of the apostle, two the coming of the Kingdom. My apostles must concern themselves primarily with their holiness and then I, the King, can best see to the coming of God’s Kingdom. Be at peace. Rejoice. I am with you and My plan is advancing.

What Signs are You Promoting?

The Gospel today immediately brought to mind the song "Signs" by Five Man Electrical Band. I think everyone my age knows the refrain:

Sign, sign, everywhere a sign

Blockin' out the scenery, breakin' my mind

Do this, don't do that, can't you read the sign?

Kind of reminds me of the state our country is in. Political correctness has stripped our rights to education of our children/grandchildren in the virtues/principles of our Christian faith. All that is good and decent has been cast into the shadows to please a minute number of non-believers/non-Christians. Is it any surprise hatred is running rampant as evidenced by all the shootings right now? Without God, we are nothing. We are not safe or protected from the unrest/retaliation. So, what can we do to turn hate into love? War into peace? Grasp on to the Hand of Christ and do our part to bring faith to the world, beginning with ourselves and our families. How are we reacting to the violence on Facebook? Twitter? Any social media? Are our posts Christ-filled or hate-filled? Signs are everywhere . . . how are you choosing to interpret them?

Today's Gospel (Matthew 12:38-42) reminds me when I stop looking for signs and focus on the here and now, I am giving Jesus the time He needs to answer my questions:

Some of the scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus, "Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you." He said to them in reply, "An evil and unfaithful generation seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah the prophet. Just as Jonah was in the belly of the whale three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights.

In the July 2007 Monthly Message, Jesus clearly defines how we are to view a world rejecting God and all that is decent:

“The signs of My presence are all around you, even though you struggle. Believe this. If you look at a person who has rejected Me, you will see signs of that rejection. If you look at a world that has rejected Me, you will also see signs. My beloved ones, when you see signs that God has been rejected, you must remain peaceful. I, Jesus, have told you that change is necessary. I, Jesus, have told you that I desire change. I do not abandon you and I do not abandon the world. I have many friends in this world and you are among them. You trust Me, I know. I will honor the trust you have placed in Me. I will bring all things to the good, both in your life and in the world.”

Lay apostles, today focus on how you can bring Christ to the world. Is it by posting something positive on Facebook? Staying away from groups spewing hatred for a race, vocation or religion? Stay focused on Him. Make sure whatever you post or write reflects His Goodness, not the malice of God's enemy.

Thank you, Lord, for showing me You are the answer to the world's problems . . . and that love should begin with me.

God bless,
Bonnie

Time To Pull Up The Bootstraps!

Teenage girls. Boy oh boy did my three drive me nuts every once in a while during their adolescence. Getting them to set the table for dinner, let alone clear the table or do the dishes was torture. So I created a list rotating between the three tasks. But when the "clearer" didn't do her job quick enough, the dishwasher wandered off, usually gabbing on the phone with girlfriends. Then came the complaining from the setter. She did her job on time so why were the other two able to slack off? I would then proceed to one of the bedrooms blaring some hip hop song and calmly remind the clearer to get moving so the dishwasher could do her job. Then by the third reminder, I wasn't so calm. As soon as a certain tone would come out of my mouth, I'd get the dirty look and the "ok, mom!" irritated growl. It is a miracle teenage girls, my teenage girls, turned into amazing young women! I love you, my beautiful angels! ;-)

In today's Gospel (Matthew 12:1-8), the Pharisees just couldn't stop complaining:

Jesus was going through a field of grain on the sabbath. His disciples were hungry and began to pick the heads of grain and eat them. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to him, "See, your disciples are doing what is unlawful to do on the sabbath." He said to them, "Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry, how he went into the house of God and ate the bread of offering, which neither he nor his companions but only the priests could lawfully eat? Or have you not read in the law that on the sabbath the priests serving in the temple violate the sabbath and are innocent? I say to you, something greater than the temple is here. If you knew what this meant, I desire mercy, not sacrifice, you would not have condemned these innocent men. For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath."

In Volume One, Jesus asks us to put duty over feelings:

“I want My children to have spiritual discipline. This means you practice your faith regardless of how you feel. There is far too much time spent on feelings today. Duty is more important. My children of the world think that their duties should be suspended if their feelings change. This is not the case, My children. On the contrary, you must complete your duties despite feelings of fatigue, boredom, and restlessness. The enemy uses these feelings to persuade people that they should not serve their loved ones. The world encourages this and does not hold people responsible when they shirk their duties or become lax or lazy. Indeed, even in work My children complain and think they should be given liberty. They begrudge doing their duty in every area of their lives. Only in their personal entertainment do they stop complaining, and that is being taken to excess. Children, this is not the way I intended for you to live. Your duty is holy and in it you will find your path to holiness. When you are unsure about what I want you to do at a given moment, look for your duty. Does it lie with your children, your job, your family, your home, your work? Everyone has a duty and in it you will find the path to your salvation. I want you to have discipline now. Decide, through prayer and conversation with Me, what spiritual practices you need to adopt. Then you must be disciplined about these practices.”

Lay apostles, simple tasks such as washing the dishes or mowing the yard are not exactly entertainment. But we must strive to complete our tasks on time with love and with no complaints. Each of us has a duty in life. Figure out what yours are and ask Christ for a heaping dose of motivation to accomplish them.

Thank you, Lord, for helping me survive teenage girls without pulling out all my hair! Please help my daughters to respond with love when their children reach that wonderful time in their lives when shirking duties/complaining is an everyday occurrence.


God bless,
Bonnie

Poor In Spirit

In todays Gospel (Matthew 5:1-12) I am always drawn to the line about being "poor in spirit." What exactly does Jesus mean here? Those who don't believe in God or have lackluster faith acquire the Kingdom of heaven? Is He talking about people who are depressed or those who are weak in character? No, just the opposite. It's understanding we are nothing without God. I found an excellent explanation in a Catholic Answers forum:

"Note that He is talking about the 'poor in spirit' here. In other words, those who are aware of their own smallness and emptiness. The poor in spirit are not those who beat themselves up, but those who frankly recognize how puny they are before the mysteries of the universe and the Creator of that universe. They don't let their own accomplishments and abilities blind them to their morality and vulnerability. They don't fool themselves."

With this meaning in mind, I am comforted in my climb to holiness. Through the writings of this mission, I have become smaller . . . aware of the Glory of God in every situation. My goal is poor in spirit . . . is it yours?

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.

Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

In Volume One, our Blessed Mother provides comforting words for our journey to her Son:

"My heart aches for my little ones. I see them twisting and turning in despair. How I hover near them, waiting for them to glance at me so that I may rush in to comfort and guide them. Alas, they look everywhere but to heaven. It was never this way to such a degree in the world. People are ashamed to ask God for help because they feel it is a sign of weakness. They fear trust. They think it makes them like children. So it does. And that is what they must be to enter in the kingdom of heaven, which is their eternal home. We must help souls to realize that it is time to come back to Jesus now. Time is short. There is no other way to say that. I want all souls to convert in the silence of their hearts and Jesus and I will lead them by the hand. No harm shall come upon them if they turn to us in their hearts. My heart is soft and forgiving. Like any good mother, I forget the mistakes of my children almost immediately. I can help poor sinners to forgive themselves and seek the forgiveness of my Son, a forgiveness that heals and strengthens. Sinners must not be afraid. They must simply close their eyes and say, ‘God, I have made mistakes. I’m sorry. I am Your child, though, and seek to be united to You.’ My child, all of heaven weeps for joy when even one soul makes this act of humility and love. How we rush in to assist this soul, and protect him from the attacks of the evil one. We nurture and guide this soul until he is back walking the path to Christ with confidence. Don’t be afraid, dear souls. You will find no recriminations. Only love."

Lay apostles, let's all strive to be "poor in spirit" today. What does that look like to you? How can you achieve what Our Savior asks of us? Is it praying a Rosary in thanksgiving? Or, sitting quietly in Adoration or even in your own backyard? Whatever it is, make time for Him. Open your heart and soul. He is ready and waiting!

Thank you, Lord, for helping me to achieve my quest to be poor in spirit. And, thank you for allowing me to understand Your Greatness through the Bible and the Volumes.

God bless,
Bonnie

School of Holiness 2016 - Chicago!

Greetings from sunny Florida fellow lay apostles and future lay apostles! If you are a young adult and haven't attended the School of Holiness in the past, now is your chance to attend in the U.S.! 

If you are a high school student or under the age of 20 (or the parent, aunt, uncle, cousin, etc of a young adult), don't miss this opportunity to interact with an energetic, dedicated group of lay apostles! 

God bless,
Bonnie

DFOT Dollar a Day Campaign - Donate!

Dear lay apostles,

Happy Easter to you and your family, and to your friends and all those near you. Christ is risen!

“Behold, I make all things new” Revelation 21:5

If you are like me, then you take immense joy in the entire Easter season, not just Lent or Holy Week, but those wonderful days after Easter Sunday when we are filled with the mercy of Christ.  

But for many of our brothers and sisters, Christ’s message seems too good to be true. Many people do not understand how important they are to God and to His plan of Renewal. “The promise of hope certainly doesn’t pertain to me. How could it? Is Christ thinking of me today, yesterday, and even before I was born? Am I truly part of His plan?”

It is almost too good to be true isn’t it? But yes, each of us is part of God’s plan every single day. He never takes His eyes off of us and our need for healing and love. God always looks first to minister to us in our own brokenness. Then his hope is that we will become evangelizers, with Him and for Him, in a world that needs immense hope.

This is not only possible, but many of you are already doing this everyday. You make small and large sacrifices, you pray fervently, you try to change hearts and minds through your example and you try to be a better person one day at a time. You believe in your heart that you are an instrument of God’s grace and want to spread His message. Many of you work with us in spreading this apostolate and its graces. We are a team and we are making a difference. 

 

Yesterday we received an email asking for books and booklets for prisoners in Ghana, as well as children’s books. Our prison ministry chose us, for certain, rather than us choosing it. And we in the apostolate have responded, whenever and wherever we could. Those that are at the end of their rope with incarceration, depression, anxiety, family and marital troubles or even worse need the graces that flow from the writings.

You can help us reach many more people, just like yourself, by getting the Volumes in people’s hands. For example, we currently have books in French to distribute. These need a home. Can you help us to place them? They were printed by donations and we would need shipping costs and a destination. This type of partnering effort has resulted in the spread of the apostolate worldwide.

But, as always, we need your help to accomplish this and the costs are ongoing. For example, once we get the works translated we put them online for free so that people in other languages can access the writings. We are currently reaching people on every continent and 32 countries. We want to significantly expand this outreach.

Will you consider donating to the Dollar a Day Campaignevery month? Your funds will be put to immediate use reaching people far and wide in prisons, churches, hospitals, homes and businesses – wherever there is a person in need, we want to be there.

Almost everyday we hear from people, who tell us how their life has changed after reading the Volumes; that they felt God was speaking directly to them personally and intimately. We need to reach more people and we need your help to accomplish this.

Please help us reach many more people in the coming months. One dollar per day ($30 per month), or whatever you can do, will make a tremendous impact!

Donate online to the Dollar a Day Campaign.

With every blessing,

Fr. Darragh Connolly

DFOT Chaplain

 

 

Have you been blessed through the Volumes? Please help others receive these words by donating a dollar a day. Your donation makes a big difference. 

 

Direction for Our Times (DFOT) is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to spreading God's messages as revealed in the Volumes.

Return to Peace

Most of the time, I don't let other's lack of respect bother me too much. But when it is just plain rude, well, let's just say the Litany of Humility comes in handy! Yesterday, when I needed an extra dose of graces, I summoned Jesus, Our Lady, and all the saints and angels for assistance. Within minutes, my peace returned. It's so easy to get caught up in the drama, but I find it even easier to distance myself assured heaven will assist at a moments notice!

Todays Gospel (Mark 16:15-20) is as clear as a sunny day . . . shout the name of Jesus from the rooftops! Let everyone in on the Good News:

Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.

In Volume One, Anne a lay apostle leads us to Jesus when we are in pain. There are so many graces available if we would only ask:

"He is within every soul. If a soul would take the time to converse with Jesus, Jesus would guide that soul personally, with love and wisdom. How sublime is the relationship with our Christ. That said, I do not want people to think it is something mysterious and beyond the reach of each simple soul. It is instinctive, within us. The call to our God comes from our center, and when we are in pain, it becomes louder and more insistent. Instead of answering the call and dropping to their knees saying, 'God, God, make haste to help me,' people go to health food stores, fortune tellers, Reiki practitioners, and all manner of holders of empty promises. The anguish, the groaning, is the soul, saying, 'Please, dear person, I am starving. Feed me with spiritual food that I may begin to flourish again, thereby granting you the peace you find so elusive.' This was not always a problem, but it is a problem today. Jesus has graces but nobody is collecting them. Hmm. More for me? That was a joke but Jesus answered, 'Yes. Exactly. An abundance of graces awaits any soul wanting them. My mother offers them to her children with such hope and tenderness. You must make this known to souls, particularly those souls who are in pain and feel unloved and forgotten. Such souls often accept My graces willingly. Go out and speak the name of Jesus Christ. Go out and preach the Gospel. Make My name known to all, that all may be loved and be saved. I am asking this of you today, and if you look for the answer, the answer will come to you. Look closely into your daily life. Where can you evangelize? Where am I asking you to evangelize? You will be given the answer in your heart, dear one. I will put it there. Truly, you will overflow with these answers, if only you will heed the sound of My voice.'"

Lay apostles, is something or someone bothering you today? Were you hurt by the actions or words of another? If your answer is yes, and it's still bugging you, stop right now and ask for some of those graces Jesus has available. Go ahead. Right now say this prayer with me: Jesus, I trust in You. Please send the graces I need to get me through this situation. You are so merciful, please allow me heavenly assistance to move forward in peace and love. Amen.

Thank you, Lord, for quick turnarounds when I pray for peace within.

God bless,
Bonnie

Sacrificial Love

Four years ago (and three more grandchildren) I wrote this blog post about my grandson Connor. It still holds true, no matter what age our children become! And as I felt holding all my grandbabies when they were born, there is nothing sweeter than feeling and seeing new life . . . a soul who just arrived from heaven! 

From 2012:

The newborn experience from the grandparent point of view is extraordinary.  From the new parent point of view . . . joyful, exhausting, amazing, confusing. My grandson has managed to get his days and nights mixed up, which is pretty typical for the first few weeks to month.  Last night I offered to stay up with him so my daughter and husband could get a little sleep. As I began singing favorite lull-a-byes, my mind drifted to Jesus.  Being a follower of Christ is exactly like becoming a new parent . . . at times it is joyful, exhausting, amazing and confusing.  But we continue to persevere out of love.  Love for the infant He has blessed us with and love for Him.  Would you deny an infant love and comfort because you were sleep deprived?  Because he changed the life you knew before his arrival? Of course not. Children require our love, attention and sacrifice 24/7. Our Father in heaven is the expert in sacrificial love. He gave His only Son for our salvation.  Yes, that means you, me, my grandson, my children . . . every human on this earth.  Lay apostles, remember God the Father's sacrifice every time you look at your own children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or anyone you come in contact with.  Remember, actions speak louder than words.

In today’s Gospel (John 6:22-29), Jesus speaks to those who followed Him for the wrong reasons:

“Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him the Father, God, has set his seal." 

So they said to him, "What can we do to accomplish the works of God?" Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in the one he sent."

In the October 2009 Monthly Message, Jesus teaches us about sacrifice:

“ . . . Please, do not count the sacrifices when you consider your service. Do not count the loss of worldly respect. Count only the souls who are comforted and consoled. Count the repentance and healing of so many who have been restored to unity with heaven. Count the humility that I have bestowed on you, dear apostle, since you began to learn about true holiness. I am your King. I can give you anything. I choose to give you peace and holiness. I choose to make of you a resolute servant. Accept My will in your life and you will then be able to accept all of the graces heaven has stored up for you."

Comforting and consoling.  Sacrificial love.  Read from the Bible daily and you will understand what the one true Role Model desires of us. We need not look elsewhere.

Thank you, Lord, for showing me how to persevere when sacrifice is difficult.

God bless,
Bonnie

Hanging With Jesus For Eternity!

I once had a hospice physician tell me an atheist's end of life is the most difficult to deal with. There is no consoling them as they have no belief in eternal life through Jesus Christ. They hang on to life out of fear. I can't even imagine thinking when I die it is the end of everything I know. If you or someone you know think this way, read the Gospels and read the Volumes! Yes, being a follower of Jesus Christ the Returning King requires full commitment to Him. Yes, you will have to let go of earthly addictions and ways of thinking. Yes, your life will drastically change. Is it all worth eternal life? If what I have to say matters, my answer is YES! I have no fear of death . . . none! I know my earthly death is only the beginning of an eternal life lived in harmony with Jesus. And, who doesn't want to hang with Him for eternity?

In todays Gospel (John 3: 7B-15) Jesus gives Nicodemus the answer to eternal life:

Jesus said to Nicodemus: “‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus answered and said to him, ‘How can this happen?” Jesus answered and said to him, “You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”

In Volume Two, Jesus asks us to come to Him when we struggle with our earthly preoccupations:

"If you let Me tell you of My love for you, you will begin to understand how irreplaceable you are to Me. Your gifts, strengths, and skills were given to you so that you could further My Kingdom on earth, as an obedient and loving child looks after the interests of his father. But, for some time now, you have not done that. You have looked after your own interests, either through the slavery of addiction or through the quest for worldly goods and sensual experiences. My child, I know you feel this is your business and perhaps you feel you hurt only yourself. I tell you now that you are My child, I love you, and I take it very personally when you hurt yourself. I am telling you now to stop. Stop any behavior that is separating you from Me. Are you unsure what those behaviors are? Come to Me, here in the tabernacle, and I will tell you exactly which behaviors I refer to. You know already, as you read these words. You must not trade these behaviors for your eternal life, My child. You must not. That is the second part of the reason why I compel you to return to Me. The third reason you must change your behavior is because I need you. I am your God, the God of All, and truly I say to you, I need you. There are souls in your world that only you can save. You must be working for Me to save them, because I have to tell you how and you have to be listening. So please, little souls of My heart, come to Me now, because the first part of the reason compelling your return is that I love you and separation from you is making My heart ache with loneliness."

Lay apostles, we have been given the words of Jesus and all of heaven in the Volumes and every book Anne has written. This is a very special gift! If you have read the words, live the words! Believe in the Gospels!

Thank you, Lord, for leading me to this apostolate. Boy, did You know what I needed! Can't wait to thank You in person some day!

God bless,
Bonnie