Gospel Thoughts Today: Wise or Foolish?

I am not a fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants kind of girl. Especially when it comes to big decisions. I do my research, plot the best course, and make sure I've got all my bases covered. I usually proceed with caution, always calculating the best-case and worst-case scenarios prior to embarking on whatever adventure awaits. But my vision of what is good and right can become distorted at times. I don't always have the "whole" picture. To base decisions/thought processes on what I perceive (with all available information) is the only way I know how to function . . . to keep my head above water. This is my way of making sense of it all. It's foolish of me to think everyone has the same reality as I do. My biggest challenge is letting go of things I cannot change, having faith that God will do the heavy lifting when a cross is too heavy for my heart to bear. I pray He gives me the wisdom (in critical moments!) to strive for love always . . . even when outcomes take me by surprise.

Today's Gospel (Matthew 25:1-13) demonstrates the importance of preparation and making wise decisions:

Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones, when taking their lamps, brought no oil with them, but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps. Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight, there was a cry, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise ones replied, ‘No, for there may not be enough for us and you. Go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ While they went off to buy it, the bridegroom came and those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him. Then the door was locked. Afterwards the other virgins came and said, ‘Lord, Lord, open the door for us!’ But he said in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”

In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, the focus is clear . . . love:

"Perhaps we must concentrate together, fiercely, on love. We must teach love and talk about love and promote love and separate love out from selfish actions and foolish distortions. We must hold love up for admiration and form our children to identify love and the actions of love. Do we want to bring up integrated individuals, fit for leadership and service? Do we want to shape public servants who will create and then protect environments where love is formed, fashioned and prioritized?
We will need to reassess everything if we are to answer the mandate Heaven sets out for renewal. And this renewal must not be limited to Church, although it is urgently needed in Church. This renewal must be insisted upon in our families and work environments, communities, and societies."

Lay apostles, where are we getting it right? Strive to do more of that. Now, where are we getting it wrong? And remember, we all get it wrong once in a while, so this is not a negative "I'm a bad person" statement. It's about how to acknowledge when love is not the outcome of our words and actions. Foolish distortions, as Anne says above, are most of the time, not reality when seeing the Truth of disheartening circumstances. So today, lead with love. See the reality of right now . . . this minute in time.

Thank you, Lord, for the tough lessons I must learn in order to love You more. I'm sorry it's taking me so long to see Your Truth in every situation/everyone I encounter.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thought Today: 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. Jay and I are participating in a Bible study about the Psalms through the end of September. It is a course by Jeff Cavins and Tim Gray. For full disclosure, this was Jay’s idea, not mine! It’s every Sunday at 3pm for 10 weeks.  I hesitated on giving up my leisurely Sunday afternoons, but knew this was something I needed to do.  What have I learned so far? That the Psalmists experienced the same issues we face today.  Part of the Psalms are about 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 judgement; 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: Thankful, Not Envious

Keeping up with the Joneses. Where exactly did this phrase come from? Curious, I googled it. From Wikipedia:

"Keeping up with the Joneses" is an idiom in many parts of the English-speaking world referring to the comparison to one's neighbor as a benchmark for social caste or the accumulation of material goods. To fail to "keep up with the Joneses" is perceived as demonstrating socio-economic or cultural inferiority.

The phrase was popularized when a comic strip of the same name was created by cartoonist Arthur R. "Pop" Momand. The strip debuted in 1913, distributed by Associated Newspapers. The strip ran in American newspapers for 26 years, and was eventually adapted into books, films, and musical comedies. The "Joneses" of the title were neighbors of the strip's main characters, and were unseen characters spoken of but never actually seen in person.

I was surprised it had been a comic strip! And, ran for 26 years! Why are people so obsessed with having more than their neighbor? A bigger house, a prettier wife, or a fancier car reflect what is on the outside. Do people really think about the blood, sweat, and tears it took to acquire the big house or the heartbreak endured behind closed doors with a beautiful mentally ill wife? Usually not. Years ago, after we had finished with patients one day (I was working in clinical research at the time), I showed a video book trailer my daughter Taylor had just produced and directed on my computer to one of my young co-workers. After watching the very impressive video, with a sigh, she commented I had such an exciting life with so many good things happening to me. I looked at her, gave her a hug, and said, "I am 50. You are 19. I better have some exciting things happening by this age!" She smiled and said that made sense. She doesn't know what I've been through in my life. She is only able to see what I reveal externally. There will always be someone with more or less than we possess.  We must be thankful for what God has given us. Whether we are blessed with good health, a job, or food and shelter . . . appreciation is key. Becoming greedy and wanting what others have can generate negativity leading to disrespect or dislike for nothing more than someone is driving a fancy car and we drive a lemon. Is that really worth stealing, hating or criticizing for?

In today's Gospel (Matthew 20:1-16), Jesus uses a parable which may find greedy people agreeing with the first laborers. But look deeper into what Jesus is explaining:

Jesus told his disciples this parable: "The Kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. Going out about nine o'clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and he said to them, 'You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.' So they went off. And he went out again around noon, and around three o'clock, and did likewise. Going out about five o'clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, 'Why do you stand here idle all day?' They answered, 'Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, 'You too go into my vineyard.' When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, 'Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.' When those who had started about five o'clock came, each received the usual daily wage. So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage. And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner, saying, 'These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day's burden and the heat.' He said to one of them in reply, 'My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?' Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last."

In Volume One, Anne a lay apostle has some good advice when it comes to our role on earth:

"I often compare my parenting of my children with God’s parenting of us on earth. He hates us to fight. He loves us to give in and make peace, forgive, and console each other. He must get so aggravated when we fight over possessions, thinking, I gave you that and it is Mine. I can easily take it away. If you want to know how to please our God, just consider a child, and what that child would have to do to please his parents. Be good. Be nice. Be obedient. Take direction when it is given. Laugh a lot. Smile. And clean up your messes. Don’t be greedy or unkind and whatever your job is, do it cheerfully."

Lay apostles, no matter what our circumstances, praise God. The Lord knows what is required to get to heaven. Have faith He knows what He's doing. Don't look at others for their value on the outside. For within each of us is something priceless . . . we are children of God!

Thank you, Lord, for helping me focus on being thankful for what I have, not wanting what others have. I will continue to build my worth internally in anticipation of the day You call me home!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: The Dreaded Last Pick

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, 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: It's Just Stuff

My purse collection is extensive. Maybe not the volume of Imelda Marcos (after she and her family fled Malacanan Palace, they found 1,000 handbags left behind!), but I have accumulated a nice assemblage in an array of colors. One thing you must know, I don't collect designer bags. I go for cheap and unique. If Macy's is having a 60% off sale and I have an extra 20% off coupon . . . well, let's just say I love a good deal. But as much as I delight in the rainbow displayed on hooks in my closet, I would give any of them away in a heartbeat. One insight (among many) I have taken away from this apostolate is detaching from worldly possessions in order to focus on accumulating heavenly assets. This is an easy task when we are talking about handbags. But what about our homes? Our cars? What would we do if our creature comforts were taken away? Well, whine and complain a bit, I suppose. Perhaps fear would ensnare our minds causing unethical decisions to be made in order to retrieve what we had lost. I'm not saying give up everything you have worked hard to achieve. I'm saying don't place such a high value on material things you can't take with you . . . after all, it's just stuff.

In today's Gospel (Matthew 19:16-22), Jesus honestly answers what appears to be a simple question:

A young man approached Jesus and said, "Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?" He answered him, "Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments." He asked him, "Which ones?" And Jesus replied, "You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself." The young man said to him, "All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

In the February 2005 Monthly Message, Jesus provides guidance in regard to possessions on earth:

"I wish to tell the world of My love. Dearest children of God, you will be welcomed in heaven. You have a family here who prepares for your arrival. Each soul on earth is steadily making progress in their earthly journey in that you are steadily approaching the end of your life, even if you will live to a very old age. If we begin with that thought, My next thought will make even more sense to you: I wish you to consider what it is you will bring Me when I come for you. Will you bring Me kindness to others? Will you bring Me service to your family? Will you bring Me a duty fulfilled in obedience and dignity? You see, little souls, I will not ask you for your material possessions because they will have no value here, unless you use these possessions to help others. Only then can material possessions acquire heavenly value. I have placed you in the world to serve. I am with you in each day but you must also be with Me. Dearest children, ask Me for guidance and I will tell you how I wish you to serve."

Lay apostles, are you placing a higher value on your material possessions than on your spouse or children? On accumulating rather than loving? What's the worst thing that could happen if you lost a treasured item? You would be sad; you would miss it; and then life goes on, right? Why spend precious time and energy fretting over "things" when there are plenty of people around us needing kindness and love? 

Thank you, Lord, for showing me earthly "things" aren't as important as love and kindness. Continue to place people in my life to love and show accumulating heavenly virtues is much more important than handbags!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Divorce Does Not Mean Failure as a Christian

About 6 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 was 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. 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 up front. 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 going through my last divorce when I struggled with feeling like a failure:

“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.”

Divorcing or divorced lay apostles, you can survive the aftermath of detachment from your marriage. No one (I pray!) 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: The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

What exactly is the "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary?" The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops defines it as "The dogma which recognizes the Blessed Virgin Mary's singular participation in her Son's Resurrection by which she was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, when the course of her earthly life was finished."  Can you imagine what Mary must have felt knowing she carried Our Savior within her womb? A few words come to mind . . . humility, love, thankfulness, with a little bit of overwhelmed thrown in. God chooses wisely, lay apostles. Beginning with Mary, He knows exactly who He needs to carry messages of salvation to the world. We have been blessed over the years by the humility of our visionaries who have said "yes" to spreading God's love and words to a world in desperate need of salvation. Thank you, Mother Mary, for saying "yes" to God. And, thank you, Anne, for your "yes," sacrificing for Our Savior by giving up a normal life.  

Todays Gospel (Luke 1:39-56) shows the humility and obedience of Our Lady:

Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

And Mary said:

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.”

Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.

In Volume 8, Jesus reminds us how His Mother suffers as He does when souls reject Him:

"Dear children, just as I suffer at the distance many souls have placed between themselves and heaven, Our Mother also suffers. She, more than anyone, shared My Passion. She now shares My anguish at the loss of so many souls. I feel revulsion at the sins of this world. Our Mother shares this revulsion. You must understand that when you are glimpsing My heart, and My feelings, you are also glimpsing the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This precious and pure little heart beats with love and tenderness for each of us. Every soul is precious to Mary. I thank you for all of the little sacrifices that console Me. I want you to know that each prayer and sacrifice given for Me also consoles Our Mother. Great joy comes to Mary when souls give thanks and praise to Me. Truly, if you are devoted to My Mother, and I want you to be, work for Me and she will be happy with you. She seeks only My will and her active and powerful intercession in your world furthers My will in a spectacular fashion. She is the woman clothed with the sun, capable of vanquishing the enemy."

Lay apostles, Our Lady is a true intercessor for us on earth. My mother always said to say a prayer to Mary when in need . . . for what Son doesn't listen to His Mother? And remember, sometimes what we pray for may take a little longer to achieve . . . God's time, right? And, sometimes His answer is "no" for our own good. 

Thank you, Lord, for the intercession and motherly love of Our Lady You allow us. You are a Good Son!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!

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 Christian and Savannah (both about to turn 4 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 the October Monthly Message, Jesus asks us not to fear change:

"Dearest apostles, so brave, I am with you. I do not tell you that you will be overcome. I do not tell you that you have been given work that is impossible for you to complete. Those messages do not come from Me. Instead, I tell you that you will persevere and ultimately triumph. Our mission of mercy does not falter, even though the steps of my little apostles sometimes falter. This mission pushes through the world with a steadiness that defies all attempts against it. My apostles experience fear at times. This is not a problem for Me or this mission. Fear is to be expected. Bring your fear to Me and explain to Me exactly what threatens you. If you do this, I can remove your fear. I will convince you that in My presence, with My power, everything is possible. You have an expectation of your little boat crashing against rocks. I will never allow this. If I am steering the boat that is your work, you will be carried safely. Push on into each day with courage, understanding that while you may not be able, I am able. You may lack courage, but I have courage. You sometimes walk in darkness, but I have the light with which to see exactly where your footsteps are taking you. Dear apostles, it is a time for hard work, yes, but a time for great glory, also. Rejoice. I am with you."

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: Fair is Fair

Note: Forgot to post this yesterday! So here it is:

Last week I was reading "It's True" to my grandson Colt (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), along with all his patriot co-hosts, make sense of the craziness. I have never felt so informed as an American, ever. My daughter (who works at the Institute of World Politics in DC) jokes that I know what is happening much faster than her at times! Thank you, Bill Mitchell, for fair and truthful reporting!

My daughter with US Defense Secretary Mattis at IWP graduation a few months ago! 

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!

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: Eternal Life

I remember reading today's Gospel years ago and having a "brain fart." (Ok, had to use one of the best lines from the movie GI Jane!) While trying to interpret it, I struggled with its meaning and relating it to my life. Here it is from John 12:24-26:

Jesus said to his disciples: "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me."

The part where my brain malfunctioned is bolded above. I was becoming frustrated deciphering what this meant and decided to email my priest. Right after I hit the send button, I reread the sentence again.  Then it dawned on me. And, I emailed him again with this:

"So, if we love living here on earth too much, we fear death and don't look forward to heaven.  But if we focus on heaven, and anticipate the day we get there, we will have eternal life. Did I get it right?"

His response:

"Indeed!"

Reading this sentence today, it's perfectly clear.  It's about climbing the mountain of holiness, with eyes looking toward heaven and not the world. It's about sacrifice, loneliness, being wronged and all other degrees of humiliation we endure on earth.  But it's persevering and suffering through it all knowing our reward when we die will be paradise . . . eternal life with Our Lord.

In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she describes unity to Christ in heaven and on earth:

“Truly, the Kingdom of God is within us because Jesus IS the Kingdom of God. I state clearly that in heaven, nobody reacts when Jesus enters an area. Some souls smiled at me or acknowledged me in welcome, but they did not acknowledge Jesus. I found this odd until I understood that Jesus never leaves any of these souls. The same way I experienced Him, they experienced Him. This is the sublime truth that can create peace in every soul. There is no restlessness, no hungering, no longing, no fear, no anxiety, and no disturbance possible when you are united to Jesus. And He is with you. On earth, we must believe this in faith. This is the treasure without price. Many souls on earth search frantically, looking for this state of mystical paradise. But, like Dorothy wearing the red shoes in the Wizard of Oz, this mystical state is with them all along and their search is doomed at its inception unless the soul looks within. If we begin our climb up the mountain of holiness each day, we will be accepting that Christ is within us. At the top of this mountain is unity with Jesus, yes, and that unity is a guaranteed thing if we desire it. The higher we climb, the more we labor for holiness and for the Kingdom on the path that He has marked out for us, and the more we honor Jesus within our souls.”

Lay apostles, don't waste another day wishing life was easier, your bank account larger, or others understood you better.  Embrace the challenges we are presented with in life as that . . . challenges which will bring a  closer unity with Christ.  Don't wait until disaster strikes to start praying. Start praying despite disaster striking. And, don't ever stop.

Thank you, Lord, for teaching me to walk with You through stormy weather despite the thunderclaps and lightning bolts all around me. And, for the common sense not to hold an umbrella overhead when the strike could electrocute me!

God bless,
Bonnie
 

Gospel Thoughts Today: Courage Despite Chaos

Inevitably, chaos will emerge at one point or another in our lives . . . corruption, anger, fake news, persecution. The big question is how do we respond to these disruptions? I tend to be more reactive at first, but can calm down quickly. My goal is to accept anything coming my way with courage . . . meaning complete trust in Christ before reacting. If I view turmoil through His eyes and with His heart, I naturally eradicate any fear I may experience. The tough part is taking that step onto the raging sea. I am in good company though . . . His apostles worked through the same fears.

Today's Gospel (Matthew 14:22-36) demonstrates even His apostles lacked courage at times, but Peter steps out in faith as we all must attempt continuously:

Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."

After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.

In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, Jesus gives us direction as to how to live our lives with courage:

"May people be strong and committed, as disciplined in thought as they are in action. May they find congruence in their prayer life and not in the opinions of others. May they receive their vocations as divinely organized in the mind of God and live from them in trust. May they have great courage as they stand down those inflated with power and self-importance. May they live humility with simplicity. May they have joy in their obligations to bring about the new time and retain personal holiness as a gift to their mother, the Queen of the Church. And may Jesus Christ be strengthened in presence in the world through the constancy of many holy disciples and apostles."

Lay apostles, contemplate how fear interrupts your trust in Jesus. As I have said many times in this blog, worst case scenario is death, the biggest fear factor. Actually, with faith in Christ, departing this world is a best-case scenario. None of us know our expiration date.  With that in mind, have courage, not fear. After all, our goal is an eternity in heaven with Him!

Thank you, Lord, for strengthening my heart and mind toward courage, not fear. And, for the wake-up call when I falter!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: A Big Reveal

Miracles occur every day.  When these desirous dreams materialize, what is the first thing we want to do?  Tell the world, of course! On Facebook, when you fall in love, you change your status from "single" to "in a relationship." Though a couple finds out they are expecting after a year of trying to conceive, they may choose to wait until the first trimester is complete before revealing the blessed event. We all have reasons for delaying good news, keeping it to ourselves until the time is right. Whether it be because others may not be ready for the announcement or fear of a potential negative outcome, we hold joyous secrets until we feel confident in their truth . . . in their reality.  Or, until we are given permission to shout it from the rooftop.  Can you imagine how difficult it was for me to keep my mouth shut when two of my daughters revealed they were pregnant?  Four of the most challenging secrets I've ever had to keep!

Today's Gospel (Mark 9:2-10) puts Peter, James and John privy to a miraculous event of which they must keep to themselves until Our Lord's resurrection:

Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother John, and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them. Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses, and they were conversing with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, "Rabbi, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified. Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; from the cloud came a voice, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him." Suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them.

As they were coming down from the mountain, he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone, except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead. So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what rising from the dead meant.

Can you imagine keeping that a secret? As hard as it must have been, I'm sure they took it seriously coming from Jesus!

In Volume Two, Jesus confides He intends to reveal all to us in His time:

"My children, I am speaking to you from the depth of My Eucharistic heart. My dearest little souls of this world, you must come back to Me. I want your love now, as never before, and I want to protect you as never before. Because Our time is not like your time, I can communicate with you in a timeless manner. This is what I wish to tell you. I am going to share My deepest secrets with you. I am going to remove the veil from the tabernacle as never before. I want you to know Me. I want you to know Me in My miraculous form of the consecrated host. I am the Bread of Life. Yes. And I am your Jesus, also. I was a humble Man, who walked your paths of difficulty, want, and hardship. Many treated Me badly, so I understand the pain of hurt. We had little money, so I understand the pain of hunger. I was different, so I understand the pain of isolation. Little ones, I am with you. I want to teach you things that souls of past times did not learn until they came to heaven. I am doing this because I am raising up a tidal wave of Christians to wash over the shore of badness that has taken control of this world, so lovingly created by My Father. This process will cleanse your world, making it safe once again for God’s children. I am going to bring you knowledge, wisdom, and love. I am going to introduce you to the divine to make your hearts burn like furnaces of divine love."

Lay apostles, Jesus is revealing Himself to us continually through Sacred Scripture and in the messages He has blessed us with in the Volumes. We are so very privileged He chose us to be a part of this apostolate in preparation for His second coming.  Jesus knew He needed to get my attention. And He chose Anne as the conduit for my awakening. Praise be to God!

Thank you, Lord, for Your big reveal contained in the Bible and all the messages from heaven through Anne a lay apostle.  If it wasn't for her "yes" I would never have been prepared for the graces and blessings you shower me with today, nor would I have been able to see them standing right before my eyes!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Honoring Others

The word "honor" grabbed my attention in the Gospel today. If some didn't honor Christ when He walked this earth . . . when they could actually touch Him, see Him and listen to Him, why would it be any different over 2,000 years later? Well, the Truth can be overwhelming, right? It means admitting to ourselves we are imperfect. The fact is, a true follower of Jesus knows when they are getting it wrong and try to not make the same mistake over and over. His love is unconditional. He honored every one of us in His Passion. If you are Catholic (or even if you are not!), pray the Sorrowful Mysteries. Watch The Passion of the Christ. Immerse yourself in His suffering. Give Him the honor He deserves. In turn, clarity in honoring our families, our friends, our community and our 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 for me 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 do better 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