Gospel Thoughts Today: Loving As Jesus Loves

It's very easy to quote Scripture, to be "book smart" when describing Jesus. It's easy to talk about His work and life on earth with love and adoration. It's easy to describe His kind nature, His healing touch. We can quote Canon Law, we can quote the Catechism of the Catholic Church. But if you don't practice what you preach, it falls on deaf ears.

In today's Gospel (Luke 9:18-22), Jesus is teaching the apostles that namedropping is not allowed:

Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" They said in reply, "John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, 'One of the ancient prophets has arisen.'" Then he said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter said in reply, "The Christ of God." He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone.

He said, "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."

Jesus wants us to exude Him in how we think, speak and act. Don't judge the level of faith or poor choices of another. As the old saying goes, walk a mile in my shoes . . .

In Anne a lay apostle's book Serving in Clarity, she brilliantly describes Jesus, and, lives her life as Jesus would want of all His servants:

"It is distressing to witness a spirit of pride and arrogance. We must always look for personal outrage as a marker for pride in ourselves. By this I do not refer to the outrage one feels regarding injustice done to others. This is appropriate. By this, the marker for pride, I refer to personal outrage associated with being treated less respectfully than we would like or being judged in a way that is less positive than we feel we deserve or desire. To clarify, we can go, as usual, to the Lord’s example. When people lied about Jesus personally or mistreated Him, He let it go, as in the Garden. He did not puff up and sputter in outrage. He was very consistent in behaving like a lamb. But when people planned to stone an adulteress, He stopped them. He exhibited a sense of outrage, turning the situation on its head and using it to promote non-judgmental treatment of others. Also, when He witnessed His Father’s house being used as a marketplace, He exhibited outrage, even reacting with just anger. Jesus quietly accepted personal insults and slights to Himself. He did not accept cruel behavior against people or blasphemous behavior against His Father."

Lay apostles, read, read, read. Then, practice, practice, practice. What can you do today to witness your love of Christ? Not judge another's mistakes? Defend the unborn? There are so many ways to describe Jesus in our actions. Start practicing today.

Thank you, Lord, for teaching me in addition to describing You, I must exude You, too.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thought Today: Don't Be Confused

Love and respect. Kindness and compassion. Faith, hope and charity. Words every person, let alone every Christian, should exude. I think some people are becoming confused, or maybe it's just plain ol' fear of not fitting in when standing up for Christ. Could it be some of our youth (or millennials as they are now called!) in this country didn't have role models practicing Christian values? What kind of examples were set or are being set for our children and grandchildren? Who is to blame for this lack of faith blatantly blasted at us on all the liberal news stations? The answer is, we only have ourselves to blame. Yes, we are influenced by our childhood. Yes, our parents unknowingly (and in some cases knowingly) contributed to how we think and assess situations, ourselves and others. But once we become adults, there are no more excuses. We can make the necessary changes needed in our lives by the choices we make every day. Let's begin today by showing no fear when protecting Our Lord's sacred name. As a matter of fact, we must stop being silent when our sweet Jesus is slandered or mocked. He is a God of mercy . . . clear up any confusion or fear within first. Pick up a Volume and get to know Him. Open the Bible to learn about His short life on this earth. Love Him as He loves us.

Today's Gospel (Luke 9:7-9) shows Herod very confused about who Jesus is . . .

Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, "John has been raised from the dead"; others were saying, "Elijah has appeared"; still others, "One of the ancient prophets has arisen." But Herod said, "John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?" And he kept trying to see him.

In Volume Three, Our Lady teaches us to seek the good, not be confused, and trust in her Son:

"My dear souls, dedicated to Jesus, I wish to teach you more about goodness. Goodness comes from God. All goodness is rooted in heaven and blooms on earth. Your world is filled with a false goodness, that is really malice, disguised. Your world speaks of choice and lauds the choice of the individual. Well, this is fine, if a soul is choosing God. But to choose against the natural order, set down by God, is to bring the wrath of God down upon the world. These people are not working for goodness and their motives are not good. Do not feel compelled to pay homage to the modern concept of good any longer. Instead, ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify true goodness, the kind that is rooted in heaven, and the Spirit will direct you to examples. This same spirit of truth, will uncover the dark motives and malice of those who talk about good and work for bad. Now, do not be confused or concerned. When you see these individuals spouting their lies, you have felt confusion and suspicion. It is that suspicion I wish to direct your attention to. Pay attention to those feelings and trust a little bit more in your holy instincts. Look at the fruits of various campaigns. Does a certain approach bear good fruit? And by that I mean does it bring souls into a unity with each other and with the Creator? You are not secular, dear ones. Please do not try to be."

Lay apostles, don't let lies and venomous words confuse, causing doubt in God. Rely on your holy instincts as Our Lady states above. Don't react, pray for the offenders. And just remember, What Would Jesus Do?

Thank you, Lord, for patience and compassion for those spouting evil and hate. Please continue to provide me with Your shield of hope and forgiveness.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Win Others Over (WOO)

Jay and I participated in a "Strengths" course at our church a few years ago. Jay enjoyed it . . . a lot! For me, well, not exactly my cup of tea. Let me explain. Those who know me are aware I am not a shy person . . . to say the least! I tend to become a little animated when I talk about something in which I feel passionate. Our group (about 6 couples and 5 singles) was a bit on the not-so-animated-quiet-unless-forced-to-talk side. It took everything in me to not be the one talking or answering the leader's questions when everyone stared mutely. Grant it, there were others participating. And they are all good people I know or have seen at Mass. But not the most interactive crowd. The reason I bring all of this up is one of my strengths is WOO (win others over). Oh, and Positivity (Jay was a little perplexed when I got this strength and he didn't!). Because I am a WOO, I struggle introducing the Volumes to people, they smile politely or take a book, then who knows where the precious Volume ends up. After being a lay apostle for over 12 years, I have learned from Anne and Fr. Darragh the importance of being the introduction to Jesus. And, walk away knowing everything is in His capable hands when the receiving party is not jumping for joy that they have been handed a life-changing book. Quite frankly, I'm thrilled Jesus wants the job of conversion! I wouldn't get much accomplished if it were up to me! So I am trying to calm down the WOO in me. But I am thankful for it as it drives me to spread the Good News through my writing and connections. Jay and I talk about how wonderful the world would be if EVERYONE was a lay apostle . . .

In today's Gospel (Luke 9:1-6), Jesus offers us His advice on planting the seed and walking away:

Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

In Volume One, Jesus reminds us where our strength lies:

"Focus your strength and energy on serving Me in your day. Before you speak, ask yourself if what you are going to say is of value. Before you offer an opinion, be certain you have given this thought consideration. Do not lead others astray, as I am warning you not to be led astray. Silence is necessary now, as we have said. Useless conversations add to the constant din of noise that leaves the spirit no peace. You will not understand what I need from you, dear children, unless you are quiet and thoughtful. Also, this quietness encourages My Spirit to rest within you, and you will feel that presence. You will then speak with authority and correctness. And you will begin to offer opinions and counsel that have value and direction, instead of merely adding to the noise of this present world. Be at peace now, in all of your troubles. I want My children to move through their days with confidence, even if they are carrying crosses for Me. The heavier the cross, dear ones, the closer I will be. Do not fear. You will not be left in the wilderness. I call My own to Me and My own know Me."

Lay apostles, we are called to be representatives of His Light on earth. What are your strengths and how are you using them? If you are blessed with wealth, are you using your money to spread the Volumes/the Good News/feed the poor? Or, is it a bigger house, fancier car, or designer clothes you strive for? Whatever your strengths, use them all for His Glory. When you do, watch the graces pour in. We have multiple opportunities every day to let others see Christ in us. How are you going to use your strengths today to make someone see Jesus in your eyes with a kind smile or words of love and encouragement?

Thank you, Lord, for the strengths You have given me. Please help me to use them in the best possible way, for Your Glory, not mine.

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: A Call To Action

There are times in our lives when we feel beaten down . . . sometimes the feeling is we are not good enough, smart enough, faithful enough, or you-fill-in-the-blank enough. Despite how others treat us, we only have to please one Person . . . Christ. We are always good enough for Him. Think about it this way . . . who are the people consistently loving and supporting you? There is nothing you wouldn't do for them in return, right? Fight for them, love them, comfort them. So why do we treat Our Heavenly Father with sporadic trust? As Christians, we must walk the walk. And, not just occasionally. It's time for action my dear fellow lay apostles. It's time to give Him our complete attention and trust, just as we do for those we love on earth.

In today's Gospel (Luke 8:19-21), Jesus makes a very clear point: it's easy to talk the talk, but you also have to walk the walk:

The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers  are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

In Volume One, our Blessed Mother advises her children on earth to take action:

"Remember to pray, children. In this way, every action throughout your day can be sanctified. Think of all the small tasks you complete, barely giving any thought to them. If you offer them to us with love, we can use even the smallest action for the salvation of sinners. It is time now to pay attention. Do not put our words down and forget them. I want you to act in obedience to our words and let them change your life. It will feel like the most natural thing in the world, this transition to holiness. Once you make the decision, begin to pray. Once you begin to pray, obedience will come naturally. After obedience, we can move you swiftly to great levels of holiness. My dear one, you will then see the coming of God’s kingdom."

Lay apostles, young or old, it is never too late to be a part of God's Renewal. Strive to do His Will and continue on the path to salvation. You can change your life.  I did.  Accept the fact you are worthy of His Love and make peace with your past. Once you do, you will be amazed at all the beauty despite the thorns.

Thank you, Lord, for quick recoveries and a joyful spirit.  Your spiritual bulletproof armor is working well!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: The Problem Solver

When chaos abounds, I try to remember God is teaching me some kind of lesson.  The problem is, the more flustered and bombarded I become, the more I find myself trying to solve my own problems without Christ as my shield/counselor. This just doesn't work! I need to look at every situation through His eyes. He softens the sharpness of difficult encounters. Every morning He allows me to wake up and encounter the world, I must remember to put on my Christ-armor through prayer and thanksgiving. Every day is a new opportunity to start again. Beginning my day with Him on my heart and in my mind, the world seems a much easier place to navigate.

In today's Gospel (Luke 8:16-18), Jesus teaches the crowd to shine His Light:

Jesus said to the crowd: "No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away."

In Anne a lay apostle's book The Mist of Mercy, she hits the nail on the head in dealing with problems:

"It will help to look beyond the one who attacks us to the possible author of that person’s thoughts. Anger, while inevitable at times, can be a waste of energy. We must save our strength and direct it to serving God and allowing His Kingdom to come through us on every single day. When we identify symptoms of the devil’s anger or resistance, it helps to ask the following question: What is it that the enemy seeks to spoil? Quite often the answer will be peace, be it peace in the home, the workplace, or the world at large. Or the enemy could seek to destroy a relationship that is necessary for God’s plan to advance. Remember that the enemy is the destroyer of peace. We must always work to establish and maintain peace. I try to look at situations in two ways. I consider first, what is it that the enemy would like me to do? How is the devil setting me up? Then I consider what decision or response would please Jesus most. What does Jesus want me to do? Therein lay both the struggle and the opportunity for holiness. The soul groans. Humanity objects. Growth pains are evident. There are times when we say, “Lord, it’s too hard.” At times we fail. But if we can learn to identify and distinguish between the Lord’s way and the enemy’s way, we are at least in the game. We must be prepared for battle by being smaller, meeker, and more humble than God’s enemy. Our Leader was meek and humble of heart, after all. Forgiveness was a way of life for Jesus."

I want to end with a beautiful poem I heard in Mass years ago and never forgot:

The Race

                Attributed to Dr. D.H. "Dee" Groberg

Whenever I start to hang my head in front of failure’s face, 

    my downward fall is broken by the memory of a race. 

A children’s race, young boys, young men; how I remember well, 

    excitement sure, but also fear, it wasn’t hard to tell. 

They all lined up so full of hope, each thought to win that race 

    or tie for first, or if not that, at least take second place. 

Their parents watched from off the side, each cheering for their son, 

    and each boy hoped to show his folks that he would be the one.

The whistle blew and off they flew, like chariots of fire, 

    to win, to be the hero there, was each young boy’s desire. 

One boy in particular, whose dad was in the crowd, 

    was running in the lead and thought “My dad will be so proud.” 

But as he speeded down the field and crossed a shallow dip, 

    the little boy who thought he’d win, lost his step and slipped. 

Trying hard to catch himself, his arms flew everyplace, 

    and midst the laughter of the crowd he fell flat on his face. 

As he fell, his hope fell too; he couldn’t win it now. 

    Humiliated, he just wished to disappear somehow.

But as he fell his dad stood up and showed his anxious face, 

    which to the boy so clearly said, “Get up and win that race!” 

He quickly rose, no damage done, behind a bit that’s all, 

    and ran with all his mind and might to make up for his fall. 

So anxious to restore himself, to catch up and to win, 

    his mind went faster than his legs. He slipped and fell again. 

He wished that he had quit before with only one disgrace. 

    “I’m hopeless as a runner now, I shouldn’t try to race.”

But through the laughing crowd he searched and found his father’s face 

    with a steady look that said again, “Get up and win that race!” 

So he jumped up to try again, ten yards behind the last. 

    “If I’m to gain those yards,” he thought, “I’ve got to run real fast!” 

Exceeding everything he had, he regained eight, then ten... 

    but trying hard to catch the lead, he slipped and fell again. 

Defeat! He lay there silently. A tear dropped from his eye. 

    “There’s no sense running anymore! Three strikes I’m out! Why try? 

I’ve lost, so what’s the use?” he thought. “I’ll live with my disgrace.” 

    But then he thought about his dad, who soon he’d have to face.

“Get up,” an echo sounded low, “you haven’t lost at all, 

    for all you have to do to win is rise each time you fall. 

Get up!” the echo urged him on, “Get up and take your place! 

    You were not meant for failure here! Get up and win that race!” 

So, up he rose to run once more, refusing to forfeit, 

    and he resolved that win or lose, at least he wouldn’t quit. 

So far behind the others now, the most he’d ever been, 

    still he gave it all he had and ran like he could win. 

Three times he’d fallen stumbling, three times he rose again. 

    Too far behind to hope to win, he still ran to the end.

They cheered another boy who crossed the line and won first place, 

    head high and proud and happy -- no falling, no disgrace. 

But, when the fallen youngster crossed the line, in last place, 

    the crowd gave him a greater cheer for finishing the race. 

And even though he came in last with head bowed low, unproud, 

    you would have thought he’d won the race, to listen to the crowd. 

And to his dad he sadly said, “I didn’t do so well.” 

    “To me, you won,” his father said. “You rose each time you fell.”

And now when things seem dark and bleak and difficult to face, 

    the memory of that little boy helps me in my own race. 

For all of life is like that race, with ups and downs and all. 

    And all you have to do to win is rise each time you fall. 

And when depression and despair shout loudly in my face, 

    another voice within me says, “Get up and win that race!”

Thank you, Lord, for the armor You and Our Lady protect me with.  All I can say is, thank You, thank You, thank You!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: The Difference Between Mercy and Sacrifice

Let's start with two definitions (from Dictionary.com):

1. Mercy - compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power; compassion, pity, or benevolence

2. Sacrifice - the surrender or destruction of something prized or desirable for the sake of something considered as having a higher or more pressing claim

Now, let's read today's Gospel (Matthew 9:9-13):

As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" He heard this and said, "Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners."

After reading this, I decided to do as Jesus asks . . . "Go and learn the meaning of the words . . ." By definition, I completely understand what Jesus means. Mercy is forgiving and sacrifice is suffering. Which is the more difficult challenge? Hands down, forgiving offenders. I would gladly suffer for Christ, my husband, my children, grandchildren and all those I love. I would stand in front of a bullet for them . . . die for them. There is no suffering so great it could deter me from protecting what is most important in my life. But the whole mercy thing . . . why is it so hard to forgive our offenders? And, how do we forgive those who continually want to disrupt our lives? Mercy. Jesus desires this of us. By using the word "desires" in Scripture today, Jesus is basically declaring He knows we aren't perfect and we won't always get it right. However, if we are doing our best to be merciful, He will be pleased. There have been many times I've refrained from rebuttal emails which could agitate an already difficult situation; or just plain ol' keeping my opinion to myself . . . and pray for the person disrupting the peace I work so hard to maintain!

In Heaven Speaks to Those Who Struggle to Forgive, Jesus teaches us by having mercy for others, we obtain mercy for ourselves:

"Bitterness characterizes My enemy. Forgiveness characterizes Me. You, a beloved little child of God, seek to find peace in your heart. You will only find peace if you step into the stream of goodness. This stream is like a river of grace with which I desire to bathe you, removing all pain and injury. What will remain in your soul is joy. This joy, this heavenly peace, will be obtained by accepting your flaws and accepting the flaws of others. You see, My friend, if you accept the flaws and sins of others, you will soften in attitude toward yourself. I love you. I accept you. I need you to accept yourself so that you will be at peace in My Kingdom and it is through forgiving others that you will find acceptance of your own humanity."

Lay apostles, did you offend someone today? Apologize. Were you offended? Have mercy. Did you make a poor choice you regret? Accept it and forgive yourself. Do as Jesus desires . . .

Thank you, Lord, for giving me words of wisdom, showing me the value of mercy is priceless. Please continue to redirect my thoughts when I want so badly to debate!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Am I Worthy?

Last month, as I was driving to a hair appointment with my 6-year-old grandson Colton in tow, he began fussing with the seat belt strap across his chest. He is now big enough to take out the internal straps of his car seat, using the vehicle seat belt in its place. His reason for fussing? He does not like it when the seat belt "locks" restricting his ability to view everything outside passing by! I started to explain how important the "lock" feature was to his safety, giving him the example of getting rear-ended. I told him if he wasn't "locked" in, he could possibly fly through the front windshield, and there was no way he was going to heaven before me . . . I wanted to see him grow up into a man, get married, and have my great grandchildren! As I spoke, I watched him in my rearview mirror. He became very quiet, and then said, "Mimi, then I want to be 56 right now and die when you do." Oh man, did my heart burst with joy, love, and gratefulness at that moment!

At times I wonder how I am worthy of such love. Every once in a while, evil rears its ugly head reminding me of past sins, causing me to question my worthiness.  Luckily, doubts can dissipate quickly with the love and support of family and friends. But most importantly, Jesus forgives the sinner. And we must believe we are forgiven.  In the Bible, the Volumes and all of Anne's books, Jesus desires His lay apostles be joyful and experience happiness by living in communion with Him.  So I have decided I am worthy of and very grateful for the happiness Jesus bestows. Hard times and difficult situations will always disturb us on our path to holiness. It's inevitable. But if we live each day in thankfulness for whatever He sends our way, good or bad, know He counts us worthy of His Love. 

Today's Gospel (Luke 7:36-50) reminds us the sins of others aren't any greater or any less than our own.  We are all worthy of forgiveness:

A certain Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with him, and he entered the Pharisee's house and reclined at table. Now there was a sinful woman in the city who learned that he was at table in the house of the Pharisee. Bringing an alabaster flask of ointment, she stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner." Jesus said to him in reply, "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Tell me, teacher," he said.

"Two people were in debt to a certain creditor; one owed five hundred days' wages and the other owed fifty. Since they were unable to repay the debt, he forgave it for both. Which of them will love him more?" Simon said in reply, "The one, I suppose, whose larger debt was forgiven." He said to him, "You have judged rightly." Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little." He said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." The others at table said to themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?" But he said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

In Anne a lay apostle's book The Mist of Mercy, the following quote is crucial when asking God for forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation if you are Catholic:
 
"God offers us forgiveness, regardless of the sins we have committed. God’s forgiveness has no strings or limits attached. God’s forgiveness does not come and go. God does not make forgiveness available one day and then withdraw the offer of it the next day. The forgiveness of God is and always will be. Like everything else about God, His forgiveness is perfect. Once it is given, it will not be taken away. God’s forgiveness does not rely on anything in us. Are you sorry for your sins? If the answer is yes, then you have nothing to worry about. Go to Confession if you are a Catholic and everything will be fine. Some people recall a bad experience in Confession. They cite this as the reason they no longer go to Confession or indeed pray or go to Mass. This is heartbreaking. Be aware that Jesus calls priests from the group that is humanity. Priests are human. If a priest behaved badly to you, God will deal with him. Be assured that the Lord knows the sins of His priests. We must also be assured that when we die and stand before God, He will not ask us what everyone else did wrong. He will ask us for an account of OUR life. Look past the priest to Jesus Christ. Do not allow a bad experience to pull you away from God’s love and from all that He offers through His Church. It is good for people to understand that there is no limit to God’s forgiveness. Some people think that their sins, their malice and the damage they have done to others, makes it impossible for God to forgive them. They feel they will always be permanently excluded from God’s family. This is only possible if a person refuses to repent and wishes to be excluded. Some people think they do not want to go to Confession and confess their past sins because it means they are making a commitment to perfection. They think, I’m not ready to be perfect. I’m not ready to change. I’m not ready to completely give up some of my habits or behaviors. Please, please, please do not let this stop you from going to Confession. Jesus knows you will fail again. He accepts this. If there is the smallest desire in you to try to do the smallest bit better for God, then you should go to Confession and let Christ, through the priest, help you. Conversion is an ongoing thing. We do not become perfect in a day. We do not even become perfect in a lifetime."

Lay apostles, what has made you happy today?  Is it the beauty of the sun shining through storm clouds? A grandchild expressing his love?  Whatever it is, no matter how small, look for the joy instead of the sorrow. Be thankful He finds each of us worthy. 

Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to feel worthy of happiness.  Help me to overcome the times when I feel I don't deserve it.  I have never been happier in my life.  And it's all because of You!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Emotional Puberty

Puberty.  Immaturity.  Adolescence.  Days of change, growth, and hormones. As the mother of three daughters, it appeared to be never-ending. None of our "cycles" coincided. So, once a week it never failed . . . someone was in a foul mood.  Random mornings getting ready for school an argument would break out about borrowing clothes without permission, taking too long in the bathroom, or just plain annoyance for no reason . . . just because. What is a mother to do?  Pray for sanity!  It does pass and they do eventually grow up (thank you, Jesus!).

Our journey as Christians is a form of emotional puberty.  We shoot for maturity but will hit bumps along the road.  Lots of bumps.  We question Scripture, we become irritated when the teachings in the Bible don't coincide with our beliefs . . . or, to put it another way, our indiscretions.  So many blind themselves from the truth of their sins because it's too hard not getting what you want or desire. For example, becoming pro-choice if you have had an abortion (or know someone close to you who has) when the Bible says you should not kill. When I had an abortion at age 18, I didn't want to be tied down with a child.  In my mind, it would have put an end to my going away to college and having freedom from the crushing pressure of taking care of a mother with mental illness. So I did it and made myself feel justified in the decision. Of course, over time, I came to realize the choice I made was immature after I had committed such a mature act. As the old saying goes, if I only knew then what I know now, I would have made a different decision. It all boils down to this: grow up and begin to mature spiritually.  Look at your sins, those buried deep inside causing you to make decisions based on what justifies those sins, and stop denying the truth. It's a harsh reality, but Jesus is worth it!

Today's Gospel (Luke 7:31-35) finds Jesus a little frustrated with immaturity:

Jesus said to the crowds: "To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another,

'We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.'

For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, 'He is possessed by a demon.' The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, 'Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.' But wisdom is vindicated by all her children."

In Anne a lay apostle's book Whispers From the Cross, she couldn't have made a better point about spiritual immaturity and why we need to move past emotional puberty:

"People look different when we are looking at them through the eyes of Christ than they do when we look at them through the eyes of the enemy of Christ. God’s eyes will always look compassionately on a person. This does not mean that Christ’s eyes are blinded to truth. On the contrary, it is perfect truth to say that the eyes of the Savior view with complete truth. We can be observers of those around us and also be compassionate, keeping the flaws of others in perspective. Immature spirituality focuses on sin, sin and more sin. All day long, the newcomer thinks about sin, in himself and others. Now when a person is learning a new sport, the rules are explained to him and the novice begins participation by trying not to break the rules. There is no other way. If you do not learn the rules, you cannot play the game with any success. But this must eventually blend into a more advanced performance where the athlete is freed from the constant worry about breaking the rules as he rises to a level of participation where he experiences the beauty of the sport."

Lay apostles, are you making excuses for breaking the rules of our faith?  Are you blaming or condemning others because they don't agree with your new version of the rules? If you are a follower of Christ, listen to His Words.  He is the Truth. If you are living a life making exceptions to His rules, rethink what you are doing. He is so merciful and forgives easily when His children ask and then live their lives accordingly. None of us are perfect.  Not one. But if we try to live our lives in commitment to Him, we will move through emotional puberty to emotional maturity.

Thank you, Lord, for the lessons I have learned the hard way and in retrospect.  I will continue to work on my emotional and spiritual maturity . . . and I apologize in advance if I revert back to puberty once in a while!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Positive Changes Can Be Frightening

Everything comes with a price.  Everybody expects something in return. From an early age, I developed the attitude of "I can do it myself."  Repercussions, when I didn't live up to the expectations of others, could be brutal, despite doing the best I could.  I learned to rely on myself, having very little trust in the good deeds performed on my behalf. Just when I would think the winds were shifting in my direction, a hurricane would appear out of nowhere. Inconsistency drives me nuts. So, what happens when someone consistently acts in a loving manner toward me with no expectations of anything in return?  Revolt, of course, right? Revert back to my old ways, keeping the wall of bricks around my heart? It's a scary thing when a change occurs . . . being vulnerable and believing I am worth loving.  But trusting in Jesus as I do, I have let myself become exposed.  The result is I have found true love.  Good changes can be frightening, but accepting the good with love and thankfulness is heavenly.

Today's Gospel (Luke 7:11-17) teaches us to believe in good changes knowing the Lord can do all things:

Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, "Do not weep." He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, "Young man, I tell you, arise!" The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, "A great prophet has arisen in our midst," and "God has visited his people." This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

In Volume One, Our Lady lovingly guides us straight to her Son assuring change for Him is the path to salvation:

"Remember to pray, children. In this way, every action throughout your day can be sanctified. Think of all the small tasks you complete, barely giving any thought to them. If you offer them to us with love, we can use even the smallest action for the salvation of sinners. It is time now to pay attention. Do not put our words down and forget them. I want you to act in obedience to our words and let them change your life. It will feel like the most natural thing in the world, this transition to holiness. Once you make the decision, begin to pray. Once you begin to pray, obedience will come naturally. After obedience, we can move you swiftly to great levels of holiness. My dear one, you will then see the coming of God’s kingdom. The more you obey, the more we can reveal to you. There are many souls who allow their lives to be led by the enemy. They are leading others after them. This must cease. Answer “yes” to your mother and feel the closeness of Jesus, my Son. He will change you and introduce great beauty to your life. Be at peace as you follow the path to holiness. We are with you, and ask only that you do your best."

Lay apostles, what's changing in your life right now?  A new job?  A new relationship? A child leaving for college? Whatever it is, let go of fear and look for the good in these changes. Believe Jesus is leading you on a journey and has your back.  Look at each new situation as a chance to shine the Light of Jesus with love and compassion.  If things don't work out the way you expected, know Jesus is taking you off course to avoid a wipeout. Face every day with the knowledge you are loved, no matter what, by our heavenly Father. He is all we need.  Everyone else is icing on the cake!

Thank you, Lord, for teaching me to be open to change, accepting the fact I am worthy of love and respect. Because of my full trust in You, You led Jay to me. I am forever grateful!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: Be Grateful to Those Who Serve Us

Beware of people who are rude to waiters/servers! The advice I wish I had been given at a much younger age. In my pharmaceutical days as a Medical Liaison, I had a boss at one time who treated servers as if they were idiots. I dreaded going out to eat when we were together as a group. I found myself always trying to make up for his poor behavior by complementing the server (and, I really didn't want to consume anyone else's spit other than my own!). As a former waitress in my high school days, I was treated similarly at times. Well, I won't go into what ended up in, uh, coffee or a salad? ;-) Terrible on my part but such satisfaction at the time. Maybe that's why I am so grateful for anyone serving me. It's a tough job and we don't walk in any other shoes but our own. What about when we are on the receiving end of the rudeness from a server? Not my monkey, not my circus! I can choose to either be rude back or let it go and remain focused on the joy of being a Christian . . . which requires a lot of forgiveness in certain situations and at a moment's notice. I am not perfect, but the more I see through the eyes of Jesus, the more tolerant I automatically become.

Today's Gospel (Luke 7:1-10) finds Jesus amazed by a man's great faith and love of his servant:

When Jesus had finished all his words to the people, he entered Capernaum. A centurion there had a slave who was ill and about to die, and he was valuable to him. When he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and save the life of his slave. They approached Jesus and strongly urged him to come, saying, "He deserves to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation and he built the synagogue for us." And Jesus went with them, but when he was only a short distance from the house, the centurion sent friends to tell him, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come here,' and he comes; and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he does it." When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." When the messengers returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

In the June 2012 Monthly Message, Jesus lovingly acknowledges His lay apostles' commitment to furthering His Kingdom:

"I am pleased when I see holiness increasing in My friends and this increase in holiness is what gives Me hope for the Church. Yes, I am urging My followers toward sacrifice and service and many of you are answering with your whole hearts. You, listening to My words and allowing them to change you, are giving Me great hope. With this hope I push on into the world, confident, that while some resist change, others embrace it. Yes, change is happening, most especially in the heart of every committed apostle. You are becoming holier. As you are becoming holier, My Church is becoming holier. Apostles, hear this call with all seriousness. I, Jesus, have everything needed to advance the Church into greater unity. And I, Jesus, can do this as quickly as you will allow Me. Find Me in your soul in each moment you are questioning your role in the Kingdom. I will direct you."

Lay apostles, be thankful to those who serve us.  From the waitress serving you coffee to the mechanic fixing your brakes to the dentist filling your tooth.  We all serve in some capacity, don't we?  Serve unconditionally for love of Christ. Every kind gesture made shines His Light on a dark world. What can you do today to serve another? 

Thank you, Lord, for changing my perspective to more and more resemble Yours. Give me a nudge when I am seeing through worldly eyes!

God bless,
Bonnie

Gospel Thoughts Today: 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 today's Gospel (John 3: 13-17) Jesus gives Nicodemus the answer to eternal life:

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 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 someday!

God bless,
Bonnie