Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Ability For Greatness

Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things through Christ. Every one of us has the ability for greatness. It doesn't require wealth or education. It doesn't require social savvy or popularity. But it does require commitment to God. We are capable of becoming extraordinary by following the path of Our Savior. It's not the easiest path to take, but the most gratifying in the end. Do you think you can't make a difference in this world? Give it a try . . . you will be surprised by what being a lay apostle of Jesus Christ the Returning King can accomplish. 

In todays Gospel (Matthew 10:1-7), Jesus shows us the power of the Gospel can transform the ordinary:

Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness. The names of the Twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus.

Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”


In Volume One, our Blessed Mother explains that all it takes is a "yes" to her Son:


"Children, Jesus is trying to tell you gently that you must join Him now. Not later, but now. The time of darkness is mercifully near its end and Jesus is going to intervene in the world in an extraordinary fashion. You must be prepared and that is why we are sending you these messages. Do not ignore the prophets we send as an act of extended mercy. Can you imagine how you will feel if you have been warned but failed to respond? Can you ignore Jesus after He has shown you so much love? Can you continue, possibly, to turn your back on Him? Of course not. Because in your heart you know that Jesus is the Way, and you know that He calls you for the last time in this world. My children must obey their God and hasten to assist Him. Be on our side, dear child. Our side is the side of love. Our side is the side of obedience. Our side is the side of light, happiness, and service to others. There is no real choice for you. Your God cries out to you sharply and you must answer Him. I, your heavenly mother, will help you. We are doing everything. We need only your “yes” to unleash all manner of graces upon you. Your mother blesses you and helps you in every decision, including the decision to serve. Be at peace with your service to Christ, little one, as it is the only correct decision." 

Lay apostles, how can you be extraordinary today? Whether it is caring for an elderly parent, being a stay at home mom loving her children, or a devoted father working hard at his job to support his family, do it all for Our Savior. Offer it all to Him for His Glory. Remember even the tiniest act of love will spread ripples of peace and joy to those around you. 

Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to serve You within this apostolate. Thank you, Blessed Mother, for loving me so much I can actually feel your mantle of protection, even in the storms!

God bless,
Bonnie

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