Years ago I was visiting my sister and nieces in Colorado a few weeks before Christmas. We were in the shopping mood and went to Flatirons Mall outside of Boulder. It was freezing, snowing and windy that day, the worst combination for this thin-blooded Floridian! The great thing about shopping in Colorado during the winter is all the summer clothes are on clearance. Perfect gifts for my daughters in Florida. After hours of shopping, we made our way out to valet parking (it was much too cold for my sister to park herself). There is a small enclosed seating area behind the valet attendant providing warmth to weary shoppers. The girls and I huddled together in this cozy little haven with shopping bags surrounding our feet, trying to stay warm. Luckily all my gifts fit into the big A & F bag I snuggled between my legs as we shivered. As our car pulled up, we all made a mad dash for it, grabbing our bargains and treasures from the day's outing. No sooner did we get in the car, I noticed my bag was missing. I thought I may have kicked it under the bench as I helped my nieces grab their bags. My sister turned the car around and drove back to the valet. I jumped out only to find there weren't any bags, or people, in the seating area. Gone. All the gifts I bought to give my daughters vanished. My sister kept the car running as my nieces and I retraced our steps and ended up at Lost and Found. Nothing. The girls (probably 10 and 13 at the time) were so upset for me. Trying not to put a damper on our Christmas spirit, I told them that whoever stole the clothes needed them more than we did. So I wished the thieves a Merry Christmas. We all giggled, then sprinted out the mall doors to the warmth of my sister's car.
After reading today's Gospel (Matthew 5:38-42), the situation above came to mind. But when the offense is perceived as unforgivable, how do we interpret and apply the following?
Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow."
Man, this is a tough one. Probably one of the hardest lessons Jesus preached, but a virtue worth attaining.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Whispers from the Cross, she illuminates how evil influences:
"To clarify, we must not allow Satan to persuade us that the people around us are like him. Satan will always try to destroy what is good and holy. He will try to tempt us against each other. He will try to persuade us that we are being treated badly or worse than we are or that we are owed something from someone that they either cannot give or do not understand that they owe or that they do not even possess. I am searching and hoping to land, randomly if necessary, on the way the devil works against God's willed relationships. How often have we worked ourselves into a full-fledged war against someone only to find out the person never fired the first shot? I am talking about misunderstandings and assumptions . . ."
Lay apostles, Jesus isn't asking us to lay down and be doormats. He is telling us to peacefully walk away. Take no revenge. Hold no grudges. Hate the sin, not the sinner!
Thank you, Lord, for enhancing my ability to remain humble and go the extra mile when You need me to. It sure is a long walk sometimes, but I can do anything with You by my side!
God bless,
Bonnie
Monday, June 15, 2020
Thursday, June 11, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: What Do You Think?
Today's word from the Gospel jumping out at me . . . liable.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines this as obligated according to law or equity. I hear this and all I can think of are the protesters spewing hatred and violence across America because they don't know what else to do with themselves. The question that comes to mind is . . . don't they have jobs? Responsibilities? A life? If only they would direct all that energy to cleaning up neighborhoods devastated by poverty and crime instead of destroying small businesses, leaving trash/debris everywhere for hard working men/women to clean up after them. Jesus's words today are so pertinent to the climate in America at this time. Intolerance is being lauded instead of integrity. Violence instead of kindness. Though we can judge an action, we can't judge a soul. Therefore, we must begin within, auditing our own behaviors and actions. Compliance with Our Lord's teaching today (Matthew 5:20-26) is all about accountability . . . making us liable:
Jesus said to his disciples: "I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.
"You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, Raqa, will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise, your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny."
In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, her words/teaching hold true for each and every one of God's children:
"Like it or not, accept it or not, our Catholic Church is known for guilt complexes. People even use the word Catholic as an adjective for a certain type of guilt. Now, guilt is not a bad thing. Taking responsibility for one’s mistakes, especially when these mistakes elevate to the level of sin, is crucial for development. We must hold ourselves accountable for actions that hurt either ourselves or others. This is good formation and if taught correctly prompts the growth of integrity. Nothing is wrong on the face of that. As long as it allows for process and prompts people to ask the question ‘Why’? And also gives a path to adapt bad habits by providing a ‘How?’
Let us look at what can be called the other side of guilt, shame. What people are probably referencing when they say Catholic guilt is actually closer to shame. Shame is not from God. God does not want us to feel shame. The truth is that our sacramental life actually helps people to manage their guilt so they are not stuck in quagmires of shame which can cripple ongoing development as well as distort us and others. So it is crucial that we distinguish between the two and keep ourselves in a place of realistic understanding of our sins and patterns of sin. Perhaps we should break it down further.
Guilt communicates the following: ‘You did a bad thing.’ Or, far better, ‘I did a bad thing. I am capable of doing bad things.’ This is the truth. It is our condition as human beings. We have choices to make and sometimes, for various reasons, we make the wrong choices. The result can be sin which rightfully prompts guilt.
Shame communicates the following: ‘You are a bad person’. Or, sadly, ‘I am a bad person. I am not capable of good things anymore because the past actions I have committed mean I am permanently marked.’ This cruel distortion of the truth is immature, unrealistic, distorted and the enemy of all unity and peace and growth."
Lay apostles, we all have made poor choices which didn't exactly turn out as we thought they would, right? Unfortunately, our wounded humanity arises when we feel defeated or fearful, causing us to react. All Jesus is trying to tell us is when we do cause hurt, ask for forgiveness . . . make things right. And as Anne says, make sure you know the difference between guilt and shame. Don't let the enemy skew your thoughts, holding you back from being liable for your actions.
Thank you, Lord, for the crystal clear directions on how to be accountable/liable for my words and actions.
God bless,
Bonnie
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines this as obligated according to law or equity. I hear this and all I can think of are the protesters spewing hatred and violence across America because they don't know what else to do with themselves. The question that comes to mind is . . . don't they have jobs? Responsibilities? A life? If only they would direct all that energy to cleaning up neighborhoods devastated by poverty and crime instead of destroying small businesses, leaving trash/debris everywhere for hard working men/women to clean up after them. Jesus's words today are so pertinent to the climate in America at this time. Intolerance is being lauded instead of integrity. Violence instead of kindness. Though we can judge an action, we can't judge a soul. Therefore, we must begin within, auditing our own behaviors and actions. Compliance with Our Lord's teaching today (Matthew 5:20-26) is all about accountability . . . making us liable:
Jesus said to his disciples: "I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.
"You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, Raqa, will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise, your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny."
In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, her words/teaching hold true for each and every one of God's children:
"Like it or not, accept it or not, our Catholic Church is known for guilt complexes. People even use the word Catholic as an adjective for a certain type of guilt. Now, guilt is not a bad thing. Taking responsibility for one’s mistakes, especially when these mistakes elevate to the level of sin, is crucial for development. We must hold ourselves accountable for actions that hurt either ourselves or others. This is good formation and if taught correctly prompts the growth of integrity. Nothing is wrong on the face of that. As long as it allows for process and prompts people to ask the question ‘Why’? And also gives a path to adapt bad habits by providing a ‘How?’
Let us look at what can be called the other side of guilt, shame. What people are probably referencing when they say Catholic guilt is actually closer to shame. Shame is not from God. God does not want us to feel shame. The truth is that our sacramental life actually helps people to manage their guilt so they are not stuck in quagmires of shame which can cripple ongoing development as well as distort us and others. So it is crucial that we distinguish between the two and keep ourselves in a place of realistic understanding of our sins and patterns of sin. Perhaps we should break it down further.
Guilt communicates the following: ‘You did a bad thing.’ Or, far better, ‘I did a bad thing. I am capable of doing bad things.’ This is the truth. It is our condition as human beings. We have choices to make and sometimes, for various reasons, we make the wrong choices. The result can be sin which rightfully prompts guilt.
Shame communicates the following: ‘You are a bad person’. Or, sadly, ‘I am a bad person. I am not capable of good things anymore because the past actions I have committed mean I am permanently marked.’ This cruel distortion of the truth is immature, unrealistic, distorted and the enemy of all unity and peace and growth."
Lay apostles, we all have made poor choices which didn't exactly turn out as we thought they would, right? Unfortunately, our wounded humanity arises when we feel defeated or fearful, causing us to react. All Jesus is trying to tell us is when we do cause hurt, ask for forgiveness . . . make things right. And as Anne says, make sure you know the difference between guilt and shame. Don't let the enemy skew your thoughts, holding you back from being liable for your actions.
Thank you, Lord, for the crystal clear directions on how to be accountable/liable for my words and actions.
God bless,
Bonnie
Gospel Thoughts for June 10, 2020: Rules are Good!
"Nothing good ever happens after midnight." This was the standard response used with my daughters when they were in high school. My rules were quite strict and the girls dramatically let me know how unfair they were, especially when their friends had 2:00am curfews. I would hear "well, such and such's mom lets her stay out past midnight!" My comeback . . . I'm not such and such's mom! If looks could kill, I would have been gone a long time ago! Little did the girls know at the time my rules were to create structure and safety . . . a way to protect them from untold dangers lurking in the world. My rules were out of love for them. And, to provide guidance in making good decisions when I wasn't physically around. My two oldest daughters now have children of their own. After my daughter Whitney had her first child, I asked her when looking back, would she have the same rules for her children. Her answer? "I'm not letting them out of the house!" As a parent, this sounds familiar, right? Well, apply this to our Heavenly Father. He has created guidelines for our protection and safety from evil. When we don't try to live within His "teachings," we tend to follow the crowd, not Him. He only wants what we want for our own children . . . to live in safety, joy, peace and loving Him. There are rules for a reason and I am doing my best not to break curfew!
Today's Gospel (Matthew 5:17-19) shows the importance of following God's guidelines:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she asks us to dig a little deeper and see why "rules" are important:
"We must take each moral teaching and follow it all the way down to its furthest possible consequence if ignored. Church positions then make more sense and can be viewed in truth as protective in nature, as opposed to restrictive. Love of God begins with, at least, a respect for the necessity of obedience."
Lay apostles, we all face challenges every day. Jesus, through this apostolate, lovingly and thoroughly shows us how to live in closer communion with Him. Things won't change overnight. It takes practice and faith. I promise you, once you live His Words fully and to the best of your ability, things become easier. I find I forgive quicker; love more; listen better. I am peaceful and joyful (99% of the time!). I feel protected, fearless, and loved. This is what God has for us right now! So, stop fighting God's moral teachings and understand they are there to protect us. We are loved.
Thank you, Lord, for the ability to see Your rules for what they are, love and protection of Your children on earth. Continue to help me be obedient!
God bless,
Bonnie
Today's Gospel (Matthew 5:17-19) shows the importance of following God's guidelines:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she asks us to dig a little deeper and see why "rules" are important:
"We must take each moral teaching and follow it all the way down to its furthest possible consequence if ignored. Church positions then make more sense and can be viewed in truth as protective in nature, as opposed to restrictive. Love of God begins with, at least, a respect for the necessity of obedience."
Lay apostles, we all face challenges every day. Jesus, through this apostolate, lovingly and thoroughly shows us how to live in closer communion with Him. Things won't change overnight. It takes practice and faith. I promise you, once you live His Words fully and to the best of your ability, things become easier. I find I forgive quicker; love more; listen better. I am peaceful and joyful (99% of the time!). I feel protected, fearless, and loved. This is what God has for us right now! So, stop fighting God's moral teachings and understand they are there to protect us. We are loved.
Thank you, Lord, for the ability to see Your rules for what they are, love and protection of Your children on earth. Continue to help me be obedient!
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, June 9, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Living a Life
There is a song by the Bellamy Brothers called Let Your Love Flow (if you are anywhere between 40 and 80, the song is playing in your head right now!). I love this song . . . so light and cheerful! After reading today's Gospel (Matthew 5:13-16), this song immediately came to mind. Here are the lyrics from the chorus:
By loving God and living a life in service to Him, we have a multitude of opportunities every day to make a difference. In how we react, how we love, and what we say. For when we shine His Light, we glorify Him.
Gospel:
Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she emboldens us to continue the climb with love:
"The extent that we choose God determines the extent of the goodness God can flow through us here on earth. As we climb the mountain higher and higher toward heaven, our soul becomes stronger and its capacity to hold Christ becomes greater. We begin to disappear and Christ radiates through us. The higher we climb, the more Christ controls our will. This is done with our permission, lest souls begin to fear this heavenly possession. Souls in heaven are very much themselves, only they are themselves united to Christ. Can there be anything more desirable or beautiful? I have to say that if Christ possessed me, others would be safe from me and I could do no damage. If Christ possessed me, there would be no way that the enemy could use me to glorify himself or his legion of bitter ones. If Christ possessed me, His light would flow through me in a constant stream of grace and love. We must desire this unity above all else. Perhaps we will not reach that point on earth, but we will continue to offer Jesus our willingness and see what He can do with us. We will find joy in service because we will begin to experience heaven in saying 'no' to self and 'yes' to Him."
Lay apostles, how are you going to let your love flow today? Will others be able to see Christ in your actions and words? That's the goal . . . a goal I can only accomplish with God in my heart.
Thank you, Lord, for supplying me with courage and strength not only from the Bible, but through Your servant Anne, too.
God bless,
Bonnie
Just let your love flow like a mountain stream
And let your love grow with the smallest of dreams
And let your love show and you'll know what I mean it's the season
Let your love fly like a bird on a wing
And let your love bind you to all living things
And let your love shine and you'll know what I mean that's the reason
By loving God and living a life in service to Him, we have a multitude of opportunities every day to make a difference. In how we react, how we love, and what we say. For when we shine His Light, we glorify Him.
Gospel:
Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she emboldens us to continue the climb with love:
"The extent that we choose God determines the extent of the goodness God can flow through us here on earth. As we climb the mountain higher and higher toward heaven, our soul becomes stronger and its capacity to hold Christ becomes greater. We begin to disappear and Christ radiates through us. The higher we climb, the more Christ controls our will. This is done with our permission, lest souls begin to fear this heavenly possession. Souls in heaven are very much themselves, only they are themselves united to Christ. Can there be anything more desirable or beautiful? I have to say that if Christ possessed me, others would be safe from me and I could do no damage. If Christ possessed me, there would be no way that the enemy could use me to glorify himself or his legion of bitter ones. If Christ possessed me, His light would flow through me in a constant stream of grace and love. We must desire this unity above all else. Perhaps we will not reach that point on earth, but we will continue to offer Jesus our willingness and see what He can do with us. We will find joy in service because we will begin to experience heaven in saying 'no' to self and 'yes' to Him."
Lay apostles, how are you going to let your love flow today? Will others be able to see Christ in your actions and words? That's the goal . . . a goal I can only accomplish with God in my heart.
Thank you, Lord, for supplying me with courage and strength not only from the Bible, but through Your servant Anne, too.
God bless,
Bonnie
Monday, June 8, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Poor in Spirit?
In today's Gospel (Matthew 5:1-12) I am always drawn to the line about being "poor in spirit." What exactly does Jesus mean here? Those who don't believe in God or have lackluster faith acquire the Kingdom of heaven? Is He talking about people who are depressed or those who are weak in character? No, just the opposite. It's understanding we are nothing without God. I found an excellent explanation in a Catholic Answers forum:
"Note that He is talking about the 'poor in spirit' here. In other words, those who are aware of their own smallness and emptiness. The poor in spirit are not those who beat themselves up, but those who frankly recognize how puny they are before the mysteries of the universe and the Creator of that universe. They don't let their own accomplishments and abilities blind them to their morality and vulnerability. They don't fool themselves."
With this meaning in mind, I am comforted in my climb to holiness. Through the Bible and Anne's writings, I strive to be smaller . . . aware of the Glory of God in every situation (now, it may not be my first thought in certain instances, but after a few minutes, I am aware). My goal is poor in spirit . . . is it yours?
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
In Volume One, our Blessed Mother provides comforting words for our journey to her Son:
"My heart aches for my little ones. I see them twisting and turning in despair. How I hover near them, waiting for them to glance at me so that I may rush in to comfort and guide them. Alas, they look everywhere but to heaven. It was never this way to such a degree in the world. People are ashamed to ask God for help because they feel it is a sign of weakness.
They fear trust. They think it makes them like children. So it does. And that is what they must be to enter in the kingdom of heaven, which is their eternal home. We must help souls to realize that it is time to come back to Jesus now. Time is short. There is no other way to say that. I want all souls to convert in the silence of their hearts and Jesus and I will lead them by the hand. No harm shall come upon them if they turn to us in their hearts. My heart is soft and forgiving. Like any good mother, I forget the mistakes of my children almost immediately. I can help poor sinners to forgive themselves and seek the forgiveness of my Son, a forgiveness that heals and strengthens. Sinners must not be afraid. They must simply close their eyes and say, ‘God, I have made mistakes. I’m sorry. I am Your child, though, and seek to be united to You.’ My child, all of heaven weeps for joy when even one soul makes this act of humility and love. How we rush in to assist this soul, and protect him from the attacks of the evil one. We nurture and guide this soul until he is back walking the path to Christ with confidence. Don’t be afraid, dear souls. You will find no recriminations. Only love."
Lay apostles, let's all strive to be "poor in spirit" today. What does that look like to you? How can you achieve what Our Savior asks of us? Is it praying a Rosary in thanksgiving? Sitting quietly in Adoration (with a mask of course!) or even in your own backyard? Whatever it is, make time for Him. Open your heart and soul. He is ready and waiting!
Thank you, Lord, for assisting me on my quest to be poor in spirit. And, thank you for allowing me to understand Your Greatness through the Bible and the Volumes.
God bless,
Bonnie
"Note that He is talking about the 'poor in spirit' here. In other words, those who are aware of their own smallness and emptiness. The poor in spirit are not those who beat themselves up, but those who frankly recognize how puny they are before the mysteries of the universe and the Creator of that universe. They don't let their own accomplishments and abilities blind them to their morality and vulnerability. They don't fool themselves."
With this meaning in mind, I am comforted in my climb to holiness. Through the Bible and Anne's writings, I strive to be smaller . . . aware of the Glory of God in every situation (now, it may not be my first thought in certain instances, but after a few minutes, I am aware). My goal is poor in spirit . . . is it yours?
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
In Volume One, our Blessed Mother provides comforting words for our journey to her Son:
"My heart aches for my little ones. I see them twisting and turning in despair. How I hover near them, waiting for them to glance at me so that I may rush in to comfort and guide them. Alas, they look everywhere but to heaven. It was never this way to such a degree in the world. People are ashamed to ask God for help because they feel it is a sign of weakness.
They fear trust. They think it makes them like children. So it does. And that is what they must be to enter in the kingdom of heaven, which is their eternal home. We must help souls to realize that it is time to come back to Jesus now. Time is short. There is no other way to say that. I want all souls to convert in the silence of their hearts and Jesus and I will lead them by the hand. No harm shall come upon them if they turn to us in their hearts. My heart is soft and forgiving. Like any good mother, I forget the mistakes of my children almost immediately. I can help poor sinners to forgive themselves and seek the forgiveness of my Son, a forgiveness that heals and strengthens. Sinners must not be afraid. They must simply close their eyes and say, ‘God, I have made mistakes. I’m sorry. I am Your child, though, and seek to be united to You.’ My child, all of heaven weeps for joy when even one soul makes this act of humility and love. How we rush in to assist this soul, and protect him from the attacks of the evil one. We nurture and guide this soul until he is back walking the path to Christ with confidence. Don’t be afraid, dear souls. You will find no recriminations. Only love."
Lay apostles, let's all strive to be "poor in spirit" today. What does that look like to you? How can you achieve what Our Savior asks of us? Is it praying a Rosary in thanksgiving? Sitting quietly in Adoration (with a mask of course!) or even in your own backyard? Whatever it is, make time for Him. Open your heart and soul. He is ready and waiting!
Thank you, Lord, for assisting me on my quest to be poor in spirit. And, thank you for allowing me to understand Your Greatness through the Bible and the Volumes.
God bless,
Bonnie
Friday, June 5, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Critical Thinking
As I pondered the Gospel today, I just couldn't quite put my finger on the word I was searching for to describe the way Jesus was teaching the crowd. Lots of words crossed my mind. Ironic? No. Clever? Yes, but not what I was looking for. So I read the Gospel to Jay. He said, "It's the Socratic Method." Hmmm. Didn't exactly know the meaning, so I Googled it. From Wikipedia:
Socratic method, also known as method of elenchus, elenctic method, or Socratic debate, is named after the classical Greek philosopher Socrates. It is a form of inquiry and discussion between individuals, based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to illuminate ideas.
Perfect! Actually, this is what we were taught in nursing school . . . critical thinking. Asking the right questions leading to an answer. This brings to mind my marriage to Jay. In the beginning of our relationship, we both knew what we wanted in a partner. We asked all the right questions. At times, it required bouncing ideas back and forth to come to a solution we both felt comfortable with. Every time the light bulb came on, we thanked the Lord for enlightening us! So, whenever we disagree on something, the Socratic Method comes in to play! (Thanks, hubby, for your brilliant knowledge base!)
Today's Gospel (Mark 12:35-37) is one I don't think I have ever read. But it is clear the lesson Jesus was teaching was heard:
As Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, “How do the scribes claim that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said: The Lord said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies under your feet.’ David himself calls him ‘lord’; so how is he his son?” The great crowd heard this with delight.
In the Monthly Message of June 2012, Jesus prepares us to live holier lives focused on Him:
"The details of your life can be discerned with me over time by examining your circumstances with the Spirit I have sent to you. There is no need to be anxious about My will. You will know it in each day and in each day My will can be noted in the duties and opportunities for service. Are you sitting with Me quietly? Are you asking Me to help you become holier? Are you offering Me your will? Or are you serving in the way you desire without willingness to change and adapt when I need you to adapt? My friends, your life will always be changing. This should not alarm you because I do not change and My love for you does not change. Be at peace. Accept that if you are not open to change then you are not open to becoming holier. All is well and I am holding you very close to Me."
Lay apostles, do you question what you read in the Bible? Or do you believe with blind faith? Me? I'm the blind faith kind of person. But, I've seen many ask the tough questions, gaining more insight and stronger faith as a result. The answers to every question are right there in the Bible. They are in the Volumes. So, use the Socratic Method . . . it can only make your faith stronger!
Thank you, Lord, for my husband's brilliance and love. Please bless all who question, leading them right into Your Loving Arms!
God bless,
Bonnie
Socratic method, also known as method of elenchus, elenctic method, or Socratic debate, is named after the classical Greek philosopher Socrates. It is a form of inquiry and discussion between individuals, based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to illuminate ideas.
Perfect! Actually, this is what we were taught in nursing school . . . critical thinking. Asking the right questions leading to an answer. This brings to mind my marriage to Jay. In the beginning of our relationship, we both knew what we wanted in a partner. We asked all the right questions. At times, it required bouncing ideas back and forth to come to a solution we both felt comfortable with. Every time the light bulb came on, we thanked the Lord for enlightening us! So, whenever we disagree on something, the Socratic Method comes in to play! (Thanks, hubby, for your brilliant knowledge base!)
Today's Gospel (Mark 12:35-37) is one I don't think I have ever read. But it is clear the lesson Jesus was teaching was heard:
As Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, “How do the scribes claim that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said: The Lord said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies under your feet.’ David himself calls him ‘lord’; so how is he his son?” The great crowd heard this with delight.
In the Monthly Message of June 2012, Jesus prepares us to live holier lives focused on Him:
"The details of your life can be discerned with me over time by examining your circumstances with the Spirit I have sent to you. There is no need to be anxious about My will. You will know it in each day and in each day My will can be noted in the duties and opportunities for service. Are you sitting with Me quietly? Are you asking Me to help you become holier? Are you offering Me your will? Or are you serving in the way you desire without willingness to change and adapt when I need you to adapt? My friends, your life will always be changing. This should not alarm you because I do not change and My love for you does not change. Be at peace. Accept that if you are not open to change then you are not open to becoming holier. All is well and I am holding you very close to Me."
Lay apostles, do you question what you read in the Bible? Or do you believe with blind faith? Me? I'm the blind faith kind of person. But, I've seen many ask the tough questions, gaining more insight and stronger faith as a result. The answers to every question are right there in the Bible. They are in the Volumes. So, use the Socratic Method . . . it can only make your faith stronger!
Thank you, Lord, for my husband's brilliance and love. Please bless all who question, leading them right into Your Loving Arms!
God bless,
Bonnie
Monday, June 1, 2020
June 1, 2012 Monthly Message for 2020
We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2020 with the message for June 1, 2012 for our prayer groups and personal reflection.
Jesus
Jesus
Dear apostles, I speak to you today with great hope. My hope is in the vision held by Heaven of the future of my Church on Earth. I am pleased when I see holiness increasing in my friends. 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 becomes holier. Apostles, hear this call with all seriousness. I, Jesus, have everything needed to advance the Church into greater unity. 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. I hear many of you saying, ‘Jesus, tell me what to do’. I am answering, ‘Serve me’. I am answering, ‘Be committed to your vocation’. I am answering, ‘Love each person you encounter and my kingdom will come’. Do you see? The details of your life can be discerned with me over time by examining your circumstances with the Spirit I have sent to you. There is no need to be anxious about my will. You will know it in each day and in each day my will can be identified in the duties and opportunities for service. Are you sitting with me quietly? Are you asking me to help you become holier? Are you offering me your will? Or are you serving in the way you desire without willingness to change and adapt when I need you to change and adapt? My friends, your life will always be changing. This should not alarm you because I do not change and my love for you does not change. Be at peace. Accept that if you can be open to change then you can be open to greater holiness. All is well. I am holding you very closely to me.
Gospel Thoughts Today: It Is Finished
End of life . . . seems so final to those of us left behind losing a loved one. But in reality, it is only the beginning of eternity with Jesus for the believer. As one of my dearest friends faces waning days on this earth, my heart is both somber and joyful. I will feel the pain of losing one of the most Christ-centered women I have ever met. She believed in me and remained steadfast during a lot of ups and downs in my life. Years ago when I first became a lay apostle, I prayed earnestly for some good Catholic women in my life. Poof! Jesus placed her front and center. Her calm was a huge contrast to my "passionate" personality. Yet Jesus brought us together to further His Plan on this earth. She has truly been a sister to me . . . consistently without fail. So, yes, I will miss her terribly. And yet I feel so much joy for her . . . all her fidelity to Christ will finally be realized. One day she will see His Glorious Face and know all she suffered was worth every second of it. One day she will see our Blessed Mother who will comfort her and praise her for the motherhood they share. She will be free of the constraints her human body has afflicted her with for the last 4 years. Freedom . . . finally. And as a lay apostle, we know the thin veil between heaven and earth. I know when I call on her for extra prayers, she will organize the prayer warriors in her midst. I love you, my sweet dear sister. Thank you for all the love, guidance and support you have provided me over the las 12 years. I am a better woman and Christian because of you.
In today's Gospel (John 19:25-34), Jesus was making sure those He left behind were taken care of:
Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.
Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately Blood and water flowed out.
In today's Gospel (John 19:25-34), Jesus was making sure those He left behind were taken care of:
Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.
Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately Blood and water flowed out.
The following quote from from Jesus in the Monthly Message of November 1, 2011 gives me tremendous comfort:
"My friends, often there is confusion in human relationships which causes terrible suffering. This part of the cross is heavy, indeed, and I, Myself, suffered this. It is during these times that I comfort you with the greatest and most tender graces because I understand the confusion which accompanies abandonment. For Me, it was important to remind myself that My Father would not abandon Me. For you, this is also important. I will never leave you. If you feel that you have been abandoned by someone you love, either through death or rejection, then you must come to Me for comfort. I will remind you that in heaven there will be no tears, no grieving, no heartbreak. In heaven you will be reunited in love with those who also love Me. Never worry about those who have gone before you. Pray for them and trust Me. The family of God is vast and includes people you know and people you do not know. You will rejoice in heaven and, even now, heaven rejoices in you."
Lay apostles, during this very chaotic time, life still goes on. How are you spending your remaining time on this earth? We never know our expiration date. Live like it's today.
Thank you, Lord, for providing me with such a special women to be part of my life. I bet all of heaven is waiting in anticipation of her homecoming!
God bless,
Bonnie
Friday, May 29, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Saved Through Faith
Decisions made in the heat of the moment can go one of two ways. We can either react emotionally, shooting daggers at the offending party. Or we can keep our comments to ourselves remembering every human being is a child of God. Even the worst of the worst. Think about Jesus on the cross. Two criminals on each side of Him. One of them hurling insults at Christ and the other realizing He was the Son of God, asking Jesus to remember him in His Kingdom. How did Jesus respond? He told the man who believed that they would be seeing each other in paradise. It's never too late to repent. No matter what your sins are, no matter how grave, Jesus is always ready to forgive.
Today's Gospel (John 21:15-19) is a perfect example of the forgiveness we can expect from our Lord as followers:
After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs." He then said to Simon Peter a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, she points out God's Forgiveness is right in front of us at all times:
"Hurting another created child of God is the same as hurting the One who created that child. Rejecting God is a 'no' response to His complete 'I love you.' We repent and as Catholics, we seek absolution through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Yet, there’s something which is more widely available, also. We can evaluate it as existing within our human experience. It is by cooperation with grace we have been saved, through faith. By the same token, it would appear that there is nothing we could do negatively, through sin, which would prompt God to withdraw the gifts of grace available. We can reject the gifts, for example, we can reject the gift He offers of forgiveness by refusing to repent. We reject many of His gifts, but they keep coming and they remain in front of us for uptake throughout our whole life, regardless of our condition."
Lay apostles, Peter had denied Jesus three times. Paul was persecuting Christians. And yet they became true disciples of Christ. All Jesus asked was they feed and tend to His sheep. That's all He asks of us. Love Him and spread the Good News. For however we have sinned or been sinned against, truly repenting in our hearts is the goal.
Thank you, Lord, for bringing Your lay apostles words to live by. Continue to help me forgive unconditionally. And most especially, to remain silent when I want to throw daggers.
God bless,
Bonnie
Today's Gospel (John 21:15-19) is a perfect example of the forgiveness we can expect from our Lord as followers:
After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs." He then said to Simon Peter a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep.
In Anne a lay apostle's book Staying in Place, she points out God's Forgiveness is right in front of us at all times:
"Hurting another created child of God is the same as hurting the One who created that child. Rejecting God is a 'no' response to His complete 'I love you.' We repent and as Catholics, we seek absolution through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Yet, there’s something which is more widely available, also. We can evaluate it as existing within our human experience. It is by cooperation with grace we have been saved, through faith. By the same token, it would appear that there is nothing we could do negatively, through sin, which would prompt God to withdraw the gifts of grace available. We can reject the gifts, for example, we can reject the gift He offers of forgiveness by refusing to repent. We reject many of His gifts, but they keep coming and they remain in front of us for uptake throughout our whole life, regardless of our condition."
Lay apostles, Peter had denied Jesus three times. Paul was persecuting Christians. And yet they became true disciples of Christ. All Jesus asked was they feed and tend to His sheep. That's all He asks of us. Love Him and spread the Good News. For however we have sinned or been sinned against, truly repenting in our hearts is the goal.
Thank you, Lord, for bringing Your lay apostles words to live by. Continue to help me forgive unconditionally. And most especially, to remain silent when I want to throw daggers.
God bless,
Bonnie
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Do You Feel Loved?
Do you remember the little red pins with "I Am Loved" written in white?
Helzberg Diamonds was and is responsible for spreading three little words which mean so much. Here is a little info on how this button came into being:
Three Little Words that Come From the Heart
Something remarkable happens when you say to yourself, "I Am Loved." And the feeling is infinitely more extraordinary when the sentiment comes from someone else. It's no surprise that Barnett Helzberg Jr.'s idea for a button, printed with these three words, has been so genuinely meaningful to so many people.
Barnett is Loved
I Am Loved® was conceived in 1967 by Barnett Helzberg Jr., the thirty-something, third generation president of Kansas City-based Helzberg Diamonds. A young lady named Shirley Bush had just accepted Barnett's marriage proposal. To know she said yes ... to know he was loved ... Barnett was ecstatic! He wanted to tell the world!
The message on this pin is exactly what Our Lord has been saying all along . . . we are loved. We may not feel earthly love at times, but God's love is unshakeable, constant, and forgiving, as every good Father must emulate (good Mothers, too!).
Today's Gospel (John 17:20-26) makes it undeniable . . . we are loved:
Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying: “I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me
may be in them and I in them.”
In the booklet Heaven Speaks To Those Who Do Not Know Jesus, it is obvious Jesus is our biggest Cheerleader:
"If you learn to understand Me, you will learn that I want to use your gifts to create harmony in your soul. When you use your gifts and energy for My purposes, you will benefit the whole world. It must be so because I have said it is so and I can speak only the truth. We are all connected. Would you like to benefit the world? Truly, you are capable of this and this is My plan for you. I have so much to give to you in terms of knowledge and wisdom. Teamed with Me, you will flourish and grow to heights you never dreamed possible. Rejoice. You are resting with God, the God of All. This God tells you today that you are loved and needed. Follow this path that springs up before you. Come to Me. Turn in My direction and I will reveal this path that I want you to take. You will feel lightness in your spirit, a relief. You will feel calm. Inside there will quietly burst forth a bud of hope. This bud will blossom, have no fear. The hope you feel in your soul is nourished by the time you spend with Me, seeking truth."
Lay apostles, do you feel the love of Our Savior at all times? It can be a challenge to feel loved in difficult or confusing situations on this earth. Before heading into the pits of despair, stop and say, "I am loved." Say it over and over until you believe it.
Thank you, Lord, for the love You give me unconditionally.
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Glorify Him
Years ago I planted a bush in the backyard. The flowers are bright orange and red (I think it's called Firebush). It has grown and filled out providing glorious blooms all year round. About 7 years ago I hired a wonderful young man to mow the lawn and trim the bushes around the house. A few years ago, as I would step out onto the back patio, my beautiful Firebush was chopped off, leaving only green leaves and branches showing. This happened for about 6 months, when finally I text Greg and asked him not to cut down that particular bush when it was in full bloom (not only do I love the colors . . . it is a flower that attracts butterflies!). Well, he stopped and it started growing taller than the fence, at least 3 feet taller. So, now he only cuts it down a couple times a year. Why did my Firebush come to mind after reading today's Gospel? Because EVERYTHING glorifies Him . . . the smile of my grandchildren as they race into my arms; the love of a husband who despite recovering from eye surgery, walks into the bedroom in the morning with a hot cup of coffee for me; the beauty of a butterfly caught on my Firebush. Everyday occurrences which could be overlooked if not seeing through the eyes of Christ.
In today's Gospel (John 17:1-11A), we are privy to an intimate conversation between Jesus and His Father:
Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come.
Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.
“I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.”
In today's Gospel (John 17:1-11A), we are privy to an intimate conversation between Jesus and His Father:
Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come.
Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.
“I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.”
Lay apostles, how do you glorify Jesus on a daily basis? Do you wake up and go about your day without acknowledging Him or wake up thanking Him for another day on this earth? Praising Him for good health? Glorifying Him for His death on the cross for your salvation? If not, begin today. It is never too late.
Thank you, Lord, for opening my eyes through this apostolate to see and glorify you in everything . . . good, bad and ugly. Just please give me the extra push through the bad and ugly!
God bless,
Bonnie
Friday, May 22, 2020
The Eighth in a Series of Twelve New Locutions from Jesus.
May 17, 2020
Jesus
I am speaking to you today to share the gift of heavenly perspective. Perhaps you wonder if Heaven is attached to the difficulties in the world. The answer is yes. Heaven is very much attached to the struggles faced by God’s children in the world. We are one family, after all, and that which affects one, affects all. The saints in Heaven, those who have gone before you, feel deeply for your suffering. They feel deeply because so few of the people facing this time are confident about my presence and about their next life. And there is a next life. There is a next life here with me, Jesus Christ, who loves you most completely. My friends, there are many things to remember that will console you. One, nobody has more power than God. The Father retains complete dominion over the world he created. The Holy Spirit blows gently at times and at times more powerfully, but the Holy Spirit remains present to those who are disposed.
What must one do to be disposed to the Holy Spirit? One must be open to one’s condition as a child of God, a created being.
A created being does not create what is good without God, regardless of one’s beliefs about God. A created being does not create and use that which is bad for people with God, regardless of one’s beliefs about God. Therefore, let it be said that when a person wilfully creates something which is used to hurt humanity, they do so without God and they are acting separately from God.
Why do I speak with you this way today? Because you must quietly discern all that moves around you. Ask yourself this question. Is the remedy being offered to people helping humanity or hurting humanity? If it is helping humanity, then you know I am active. If it is hurting humanity, then you know that it is not what I desire for people. Because you cannot possibly judge any person, you leave all judgement to me. The truth is that sometimes people believe they serve to help others when really, they spread harm. I do not want this. I want all of God’s children on Earth to be loved and assisted. At the very least, I ask that God’s children not be deliberately harmed. If I am speaking to you, then you should heed my words, which you have now been given. If I am speaking to others, then you should simply discern prayerfully which part of these words are for you. Ponder my words. Ask for light from the Holy Spirit. Ask for protection from the Creator who desires what is good for you.
My friends, and you are all my beloved friends, move gently through your days, neither detaching from your role on Earth nor remaining too attached to temporary matters that will pass away. Remember that love and loving connections of light will remain with you for eternity. Speak with confidence about my plan for this world, especially when you are offered that which feels empty of hope. I am light. I am peace. I am happiness and joy and love. I am hope and delight. You, my beloved, fill me with hope and delight, just as you are right now. Only I have the eyes to fully recognise what is beautiful and heavenly in you. I look at you and see an infinite ability to spread peace through your trust in me. You cannot see this because you cannot see the effect of even one action of love from you to another. Only I can see the effects that blow into the world though the trust that you offer to me. Come. Let us, together, introduce many origins of love which can then move out into the world. Today, we will spread hope, together.
Jesus
I am speaking to you today to share the gift of heavenly perspective. Perhaps you wonder if Heaven is attached to the difficulties in the world. The answer is yes. Heaven is very much attached to the struggles faced by God’s children in the world. We are one family, after all, and that which affects one, affects all. The saints in Heaven, those who have gone before you, feel deeply for your suffering. They feel deeply because so few of the people facing this time are confident about my presence and about their next life. And there is a next life. There is a next life here with me, Jesus Christ, who loves you most completely. My friends, there are many things to remember that will console you. One, nobody has more power than God. The Father retains complete dominion over the world he created. The Holy Spirit blows gently at times and at times more powerfully, but the Holy Spirit remains present to those who are disposed.
What must one do to be disposed to the Holy Spirit? One must be open to one’s condition as a child of God, a created being.
A created being does not create what is good without God, regardless of one’s beliefs about God. A created being does not create and use that which is bad for people with God, regardless of one’s beliefs about God. Therefore, let it be said that when a person wilfully creates something which is used to hurt humanity, they do so without God and they are acting separately from God.
Why do I speak with you this way today? Because you must quietly discern all that moves around you. Ask yourself this question. Is the remedy being offered to people helping humanity or hurting humanity? If it is helping humanity, then you know I am active. If it is hurting humanity, then you know that it is not what I desire for people. Because you cannot possibly judge any person, you leave all judgement to me. The truth is that sometimes people believe they serve to help others when really, they spread harm. I do not want this. I want all of God’s children on Earth to be loved and assisted. At the very least, I ask that God’s children not be deliberately harmed. If I am speaking to you, then you should heed my words, which you have now been given. If I am speaking to others, then you should simply discern prayerfully which part of these words are for you. Ponder my words. Ask for light from the Holy Spirit. Ask for protection from the Creator who desires what is good for you.
My friends, and you are all my beloved friends, move gently through your days, neither detaching from your role on Earth nor remaining too attached to temporary matters that will pass away. Remember that love and loving connections of light will remain with you for eternity. Speak with confidence about my plan for this world, especially when you are offered that which feels empty of hope. I am light. I am peace. I am happiness and joy and love. I am hope and delight. You, my beloved, fill me with hope and delight, just as you are right now. Only I have the eyes to fully recognise what is beautiful and heavenly in you. I look at you and see an infinite ability to spread peace through your trust in me. You cannot see this because you cannot see the effect of even one action of love from you to another. Only I can see the effects that blow into the world though the trust that you offer to me. Come. Let us, together, introduce many origins of love which can then move out into the world. Today, we will spread hope, together.
Gospel Thoughts Today: Suffering is No Fun!
Almost eight years ago, I went through labor with my daughter Whitney and her husband Kevin. Whitney chose NO pain meds, NO epidural . . . completely natural. It was probably one of the most intense situations I have ever been in. To see my baby girl in so much pain was heart-wrenching. She was experiencing back labor, so Kevin and I took turns putting pressure on her lower back. I would look at Kevin when her back was to me, trying to hold back the tears. Kevin would look at me when her back was to him, also trying to stay tough. She was stuck at about 6 or 7 cm dilated, and the doctor said she would have to have a C-Section . . . her son was too big for a vaginal delivery. Whit didn't want to give up, so she insisted on sticking it out as long as the baby was doing ok. We talked her into some pain meds and then eventually into an epidural. The C-Section was inevitable as she stayed at 7cm dilated with no progress. The next time I saw my baby girl was holding her very large son! All the pain, all the waiting didn't matter anymore. There was joy, and love, and celebration. This is a perfect example of life as a Christian. We will suffer on this earth. Everyone does. But all the suffering will be replaced with joy and light and love when we finally arrive at our heavenly home! Look at every bit of anguish you suffer today as climbing the mountain of holiness to the Arms of Jesus Christ! He is worth it!
In today's Gospel (John 16:20-23), Jesus gives the example of how quickly joy is derived from anguish:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy. When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you. On that day you will not question me about anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.”
In Volume Four, God the Father provides the comfort we need in tough times:
"Remain with Me, your heavenly Father, who seeks to direct all that has an impact on you. I will bring every event in your life and turn it into something that benefits your soul and gives you eternal satisfaction and joy. But not all in my life is good, you are thinking. I know that, My child. That is why you need Me. I can turn the pain, the anguish, the mistakes and grief, into strength, wisdom, patience, and joy. Truly, if you are detached from the world and from worldly things, you can experience a foretaste of heaven on earth and then you will have less desire for earthly things. You will have a clearer, more defined focus. You will have less difficulty with the idea of leaving the earth and making the journey to your home in heaven. Believe Me when I tell you that everything I say, all that I share with you, I share with you for your own benefit. I am your Father and a Father sees to the needs of His children. Use Me, children, to calm your spirit and direct your path. It is for this reason that I come to you now."
Lay apostles, suffering is no fun. I don't voluntarily ask for it, but I have learned to take whatever it is . . . pain, frustration, or hurt and offer it to Him to use as He pleases. When I do this, it makes whatever is going on less intense every time. So give it a try today. Whatever is bothering you, causing you pain . . . accept it as your cross for today. Ask Jesus to use it for good. The graces will shower down, my friends!
Thank you, Lord, for teaching me how to find joy in anguish when I could very easily go the other way! Continue to provide the graces I need when I feel beaten down!
God bless,
Bonnie
In today's Gospel (John 16:20-23), Jesus gives the example of how quickly joy is derived from anguish:
Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy. When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you. On that day you will not question me about anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.”
In Volume Four, God the Father provides the comfort we need in tough times:
"Remain with Me, your heavenly Father, who seeks to direct all that has an impact on you. I will bring every event in your life and turn it into something that benefits your soul and gives you eternal satisfaction and joy. But not all in my life is good, you are thinking. I know that, My child. That is why you need Me. I can turn the pain, the anguish, the mistakes and grief, into strength, wisdom, patience, and joy. Truly, if you are detached from the world and from worldly things, you can experience a foretaste of heaven on earth and then you will have less desire for earthly things. You will have a clearer, more defined focus. You will have less difficulty with the idea of leaving the earth and making the journey to your home in heaven. Believe Me when I tell you that everything I say, all that I share with you, I share with you for your own benefit. I am your Father and a Father sees to the needs of His children. Use Me, children, to calm your spirit and direct your path. It is for this reason that I come to you now."
Lay apostles, suffering is no fun. I don't voluntarily ask for it, but I have learned to take whatever it is . . . pain, frustration, or hurt and offer it to Him to use as He pleases. When I do this, it makes whatever is going on less intense every time. So give it a try today. Whatever is bothering you, causing you pain . . . accept it as your cross for today. Ask Jesus to use it for good. The graces will shower down, my friends!
Thank you, Lord, for teaching me how to find joy in anguish when I could very easily go the other way! Continue to provide the graces I need when I feel beaten down!
God bless,
Bonnie
Thursday, May 21, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Never Doubt His Presence
Today's Gospel has me pondering everything I have gained from my involvement with the DFOT mission. The list is long, but here are the most important:
1. An intimate relationship with Jesus . . . no doubt He is always with me.
2. The ability to forgive not only those who have hurt me . . . I have forgiven myself.
3. A community of lay apostles all over the world, praying for and supporting each other.
4. The ability, through the Volumes and all Anne's books, to heal myself from my past.
5. Calm and peace . . . in just about everything.
6. I have become a better wife, parent, and a great Mimi!
7. I have become the woman I should have always been . . . who Jay recognized and fell in love with almost 8 years ago.
I owe my life to this mission. Following and believing what Christ says and asks of us makes it, quite frankly, easy. Even the tough times seem like an inconvenience, not a catastrophe. Today, I am thankful for a woman who took on a huge responsibility for Jesus and has taught me to never doubt again. Thank you, Anne, from the bottom of my heart!
In today's Gospel (Matthew 28:16-20), Jesus asks His Twelve to never doubt His Presence:
The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
In the Monthly Message of November 2011, Jesus assures us, as He did in the Gospel, He is always by our side:
"My dear apostles, I am with you. I am with you when you are working, and I am with you when you are resting. I am with you when you are at peace, and I am with you when you are unsettled. You are unsettled less and less, though. As I watch you, struggling for holiness and struggling for My will, I can see that you are advancing. You are becoming stronger and more sure of Me. Even allowing for your human doubts, I can see that you are accepting My comfort daily, which makes it easier for you to come through your trials with less suffering. The greatest suffering is, after all, abandonment. The greatest cross is that of being left alone while craving the comfort and love of someone who is dear to you. My friends, often there is confusion in human relationships which causes terrible suffering. This part of the cross is heavy, indeed, and I, Myself, suffered this. It is during these times that I comfort you with the greatest and most tender graces because I understand the confusion which accompanies abandonment. For Me, it was important to remind myself that My Father would not abandon Me. For you, this is also important. I will never leave you."
Lay apostles, do you try to live the messages in the Volumes? I mean take EVERY one of them to heart? As I have said many times on this blog, read and reread all the messages from heaven. It creates a confidence you wouldn't have believed was possible!
Thank you, Lord, for the confidence instilled in me through Scripture and all the messages given to Anne. This truly is a "rescue mission for souls."
God bless,
Bonnie
1. An intimate relationship with Jesus . . . no doubt He is always with me.
2. The ability to forgive not only those who have hurt me . . . I have forgiven myself.
3. A community of lay apostles all over the world, praying for and supporting each other.
4. The ability, through the Volumes and all Anne's books, to heal myself from my past.
5. Calm and peace . . . in just about everything.
6. I have become a better wife, parent, and a great Mimi!
7. I have become the woman I should have always been . . . who Jay recognized and fell in love with almost 8 years ago.
I owe my life to this mission. Following and believing what Christ says and asks of us makes it, quite frankly, easy. Even the tough times seem like an inconvenience, not a catastrophe. Today, I am thankful for a woman who took on a huge responsibility for Jesus and has taught me to never doubt again. Thank you, Anne, from the bottom of my heart!
In today's Gospel (Matthew 28:16-20), Jesus asks His Twelve to never doubt His Presence:
The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
In the Monthly Message of November 2011, Jesus assures us, as He did in the Gospel, He is always by our side:
"My dear apostles, I am with you. I am with you when you are working, and I am with you when you are resting. I am with you when you are at peace, and I am with you when you are unsettled. You are unsettled less and less, though. As I watch you, struggling for holiness and struggling for My will, I can see that you are advancing. You are becoming stronger and more sure of Me. Even allowing for your human doubts, I can see that you are accepting My comfort daily, which makes it easier for you to come through your trials with less suffering. The greatest suffering is, after all, abandonment. The greatest cross is that of being left alone while craving the comfort and love of someone who is dear to you. My friends, often there is confusion in human relationships which causes terrible suffering. This part of the cross is heavy, indeed, and I, Myself, suffered this. It is during these times that I comfort you with the greatest and most tender graces because I understand the confusion which accompanies abandonment. For Me, it was important to remind myself that My Father would not abandon Me. For you, this is also important. I will never leave you."
Lay apostles, do you try to live the messages in the Volumes? I mean take EVERY one of them to heart? As I have said many times on this blog, read and reread all the messages from heaven. It creates a confidence you wouldn't have believed was possible!
Thank you, Lord, for the confidence instilled in me through Scripture and all the messages given to Anne. This truly is a "rescue mission for souls."
God bless,
Bonnie
Thursday, May 14, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Responding with Humility
A little over 8 years ago I wrote a blog post called Grace Under Fire. It was a pivotal day for me. On the one hand, I was furious on the inside. On the other hand, it was the day I knew, without a doubt, I was a true Lay Apostle of Jesus Christ the Returning King. It was a day I responded to a verbal attack with humility and most importantly, I didn't respond emotionally. The pre-Lay Apostle Bonnie would have come out swinging. I knew he was under a lot of stress and pressure . . . he knew taking it out on me would be safe considering I have a pretty high tolerance for bad behavior. I am happy to say our friendship has survived. When we respond with love of neighbor instead of reacting to an outburst hurled our way, it is amazing what God can do with that love!
Today's Gospel (John 15:9-17) provides the key ingredient of a true Christian:
Jesus said to his disciples: "As the Father loves me, so I also love you.
Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in his love.
"I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete. This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you slaves,
because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. This I command you: love one another."
Today's quote from Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain is a bit longer than my usual, but so critical in understanding those who lash out at us and how important our prayers are for their souls:
"Clearly, the love of Christ is meant to be shared. After the experience of heaven, I can see that the Kingdom of God is made up of souls who love each other. If Christ is in each one of us, and this is of course what we believe as Christians, then we must venerate Christ in every soul. How do we do that?
We do that with respect and gentleness. Some might say, “Yes, this may be true but I see souls in error, in mortal sin, living far outside of the heavenly Kingdom.” Well, dear fellow apostles, this is when the call to treat them as Christ is at its most profound. If Christ has indeed been driven out of a soul, through serious sin and a spirit of rebellion in that sin, then the call to illustrate our unity with Christ is compelling. How does Christ treat that soul? How does Christ view that soul? I will tell you.
Christ does not glance at a soul and see the sin, although He is acutely aware of the sin. Christ glances at a soul and sees the wound that both caused the sin and was worsened by the sin. So in order for the Kingdom to come, and it must and it will, we must treat each other as Christ would.
Sometimes a soul living outside of the Kingdom is bitter. This bitterness is like a sore. When a soul in bitterness views Christ in us, it can be like salt in the wound or sore because our unity with Christ highlights his isolation from Him. This is good. The soul then comes closer to an understanding of what it lacks. Our experience of this may not be pleasant. It may be necessarily painful because in its pain his soul may strike out at us. This can be understood as an almost instinctual lashing out or crying out in the distress of his disconnectedness from Christ. We must accept these strikes as beneficial penance and part of standing with Christ as a companion on the Way of the Cross.
To clarify, I am driving in traffic and I make a mistake, perhaps, or commit a deed that inconveniences someone else. I give the other driver an apologetic wave. He responds by swearing at me, shouting and threatening. This is shocking for a holy soul.
We must offer this to Jesus. We must bring that soul to Jesus in prayer and petition. Our prayer will obtain critical graces for that soul. We must look at this person and see the wound, the sore.
To be more specific to the call to bring Jesus Christ to souls directly, consider a soul who is estranged from the Kingdom. Perhaps it is a family member or neighbor. It is possible that he may be unkind to us because our holiness is an irritant to him and to his wound. Is it then acceptable to be unkind in return? No, this is not acceptable for an apostle of Jesus Christ who seeks to bring His love to them. Remember that it was AFTER the Crucifixion that the Centurion said, “Truly, this was the Son of God.” That soul only saw Christ through the manner in which Jesus accepted suffering from the offender’s hands. Note this parallel.
A soul may be tormenting us, but for this soul to experience Christ, we must accept it as Christ would. This should be in flashing red lights.
We may be praying for this soul and beseeching heaven for the conversion of this soul. So we must not complain at a little suffering for this soul, particularly if it comes from the hand of that same soul.
It helps to examine our motives. Do we want this soul to be saved for the sake of the soul and for the consolation and glory of Jesus Christ? Or do we want this soul to be saved so that the soul will treat us better and make our life easier? I think perhaps it can be a bit of both and this is acceptable. But as we begin to lean more to the benefit of both the soul and the Kingdom, we will become more willing to accept the occasional bad treatment for the purpose of the greater good, which is the salvation of the soul and the consolation of Christ, as well as for the benefit of the Kingdom."
Lay apostles, choose to love those who seem unlovable. Choose to be the light instead of the darkness. Choose humility over pride. With Jesus, anything is possible!
Thank you, Lord, for the ability to love when faced with adversity. Help me to always keep my focus on You!
God bless,
Bonnie
Today's Gospel (John 15:9-17) provides the key ingredient of a true Christian:
Jesus said to his disciples: "As the Father loves me, so I also love you.
Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in his love.
"I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete. This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you slaves,
because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. This I command you: love one another."
Today's quote from Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain is a bit longer than my usual, but so critical in understanding those who lash out at us and how important our prayers are for their souls:
"Clearly, the love of Christ is meant to be shared. After the experience of heaven, I can see that the Kingdom of God is made up of souls who love each other. If Christ is in each one of us, and this is of course what we believe as Christians, then we must venerate Christ in every soul. How do we do that?
We do that with respect and gentleness. Some might say, “Yes, this may be true but I see souls in error, in mortal sin, living far outside of the heavenly Kingdom.” Well, dear fellow apostles, this is when the call to treat them as Christ is at its most profound. If Christ has indeed been driven out of a soul, through serious sin and a spirit of rebellion in that sin, then the call to illustrate our unity with Christ is compelling. How does Christ treat that soul? How does Christ view that soul? I will tell you.
Christ does not glance at a soul and see the sin, although He is acutely aware of the sin. Christ glances at a soul and sees the wound that both caused the sin and was worsened by the sin. So in order for the Kingdom to come, and it must and it will, we must treat each other as Christ would.
Sometimes a soul living outside of the Kingdom is bitter. This bitterness is like a sore. When a soul in bitterness views Christ in us, it can be like salt in the wound or sore because our unity with Christ highlights his isolation from Him. This is good. The soul then comes closer to an understanding of what it lacks. Our experience of this may not be pleasant. It may be necessarily painful because in its pain his soul may strike out at us. This can be understood as an almost instinctual lashing out or crying out in the distress of his disconnectedness from Christ. We must accept these strikes as beneficial penance and part of standing with Christ as a companion on the Way of the Cross.
To clarify, I am driving in traffic and I make a mistake, perhaps, or commit a deed that inconveniences someone else. I give the other driver an apologetic wave. He responds by swearing at me, shouting and threatening. This is shocking for a holy soul.
We must offer this to Jesus. We must bring that soul to Jesus in prayer and petition. Our prayer will obtain critical graces for that soul. We must look at this person and see the wound, the sore.
To be more specific to the call to bring Jesus Christ to souls directly, consider a soul who is estranged from the Kingdom. Perhaps it is a family member or neighbor. It is possible that he may be unkind to us because our holiness is an irritant to him and to his wound. Is it then acceptable to be unkind in return? No, this is not acceptable for an apostle of Jesus Christ who seeks to bring His love to them. Remember that it was AFTER the Crucifixion that the Centurion said, “Truly, this was the Son of God.” That soul only saw Christ through the manner in which Jesus accepted suffering from the offender’s hands. Note this parallel.
A soul may be tormenting us, but for this soul to experience Christ, we must accept it as Christ would. This should be in flashing red lights.
We may be praying for this soul and beseeching heaven for the conversion of this soul. So we must not complain at a little suffering for this soul, particularly if it comes from the hand of that same soul.
It helps to examine our motives. Do we want this soul to be saved for the sake of the soul and for the consolation and glory of Jesus Christ? Or do we want this soul to be saved so that the soul will treat us better and make our life easier? I think perhaps it can be a bit of both and this is acceptable. But as we begin to lean more to the benefit of both the soul and the Kingdom, we will become more willing to accept the occasional bad treatment for the purpose of the greater good, which is the salvation of the soul and the consolation of Christ, as well as for the benefit of the Kingdom."
Lay apostles, choose to love those who seem unlovable. Choose to be the light instead of the darkness. Choose humility over pride. With Jesus, anything is possible!
Thank you, Lord, for the ability to love when faced with adversity. Help me to always keep my focus on You!
God bless,
Bonnie
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Hold On
There is a Wilson-Phillips song called Hold On that came out in 1990. It was the year I decided to pursue my BSN, was pretty much a single parent of three girls, my mother was preparing to move to Kansas so I could be a full-time student, and I acquired part-time employment on a locked psychiatry unit for some nursing experience. I remember driving to clinicals at 5am blasting Hold On, wondering how I was going to juggle so many balls without dropping one. I held on day after day, doing the best I could. My faith in God, and the lyrics in the chorus of this song, gave me hope there was light at the end of the tunnel that year:
Guess what? Things did and do eventually go my way (well, His way!), despite chaos popping up every now and then. The point is, today may seem dark and stormy, but hold on for one more day. Remain centered in each day, not the future, not the past. Remember to call on Jesus when you need a little encouragement in the hope department. He is ready, willing and able to send the graces you need to wake up tomorrow and guide you to greener pastures.
In today's Gospel (John 15:1-8), Jesus asks us to remain focused on Him:
I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and everyone that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.
In Anne a lay apostle's book The Mist of Mercy, Jesus assures us by following Him today, He will see to our service tomorrow:
“My little ones see My plan for them in the present moment. At times My little ones underestimate how I intend to use them in the future. This is acceptable, of course, because it is best if a serving apostle remains focused on the day in which he finds himself. Let Me assure you, though, that the level of service I can gain from you tomorrow and in every tomorrow that I grant you, is directly affected by the level of cooperation I gain from you today. If you serve Me in completeness today, you can be assured that I am preparing you for even greater service tomorrow. It is all about practice, after all. You must practice being holy. My dear friends, My apostles, do not be afraid of tomorrow, regardless of what occurs today. My plan is detailed and accounts for everything. I will care for My beloved friends and their loved ones. I am God. I am all powerful. You cannot place too much trust in Me because I will always outperform your greatest expectations. Serve completely in today, My friends, and I will use you even more effectively tomorrow. Trust your Jesus. I will protect you.”
Yes, Jesus outperforms all my greatest expectations. So, lay apostles, hold on for one more day. Remain steadfast in your faith. Go to Adoration. Pray the Rosary. Read a Volume or Heaven Speaks booklet. Jesus is waiting for you . . .
Thank you, Lord, for inviting me to an intimate relationship with You through the daily Bible readings and the Direction for Our Times apostolate. Continue to guide my service to You in the right direction, come tomorrow.
God bless,
Bonnie
Don’t you know things can change
Things’ll go your way
If you hold on for one more day
Can you hold on for one more day
Things’ll go your way
Hold on for one more day
Guess what? Things did and do eventually go my way (well, His way!), despite chaos popping up every now and then. The point is, today may seem dark and stormy, but hold on for one more day. Remain centered in each day, not the future, not the past. Remember to call on Jesus when you need a little encouragement in the hope department. He is ready, willing and able to send the graces you need to wake up tomorrow and guide you to greener pastures.
In today's Gospel (John 15:1-8), Jesus asks us to remain focused on Him:
I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and everyone that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.
In Anne a lay apostle's book The Mist of Mercy, Jesus assures us by following Him today, He will see to our service tomorrow:
“My little ones see My plan for them in the present moment. At times My little ones underestimate how I intend to use them in the future. This is acceptable, of course, because it is best if a serving apostle remains focused on the day in which he finds himself. Let Me assure you, though, that the level of service I can gain from you tomorrow and in every tomorrow that I grant you, is directly affected by the level of cooperation I gain from you today. If you serve Me in completeness today, you can be assured that I am preparing you for even greater service tomorrow. It is all about practice, after all. You must practice being holy. My dear friends, My apostles, do not be afraid of tomorrow, regardless of what occurs today. My plan is detailed and accounts for everything. I will care for My beloved friends and their loved ones. I am God. I am all powerful. You cannot place too much trust in Me because I will always outperform your greatest expectations. Serve completely in today, My friends, and I will use you even more effectively tomorrow. Trust your Jesus. I will protect you.”
Yes, Jesus outperforms all my greatest expectations. So, lay apostles, hold on for one more day. Remain steadfast in your faith. Go to Adoration. Pray the Rosary. Read a Volume or Heaven Speaks booklet. Jesus is waiting for you . . .
Thank you, Lord, for inviting me to an intimate relationship with You through the daily Bible readings and the Direction for Our Times apostolate. Continue to guide my service to You in the right direction, come tomorrow.
God bless,
Bonnie
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: The End Goal
"No marriages or babies until you have a college degree in your hands." I can't remember how many times I told my daughters this throughout their lives. I went back to school full-time for a BSN when my youngest was two. Not an easy thing to do when raising three little girls. I am happy to report my mission was completed the day my youngest daughter Taylor graduated with her BS in Photography 5 years ago. I remember a conversation with her after beginning her dream job back then. She lovingly congratulated me on accomplishing exactly what I wanted for my girls. The thing she didn't realize was . . . they all listened to me! They believed what I said. They plowed through the obstacles along the way, never losing sight of the end goal. What a great metaphor when thinking about being a Christian! We must believe what we read in the Bible and the messages from all of heaven in the Volumes. Living a life driven by the words of Christ will lead us to the end goal . . . heaven. Not always easy, but worth leaping over every hurdle.
In today's Gospel (John 10:22-30), Jesus reassures us He knows who we are:
The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me. But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.”
In Volume Four, Jesus again asks us to unite ourselves to Him:
"Believe Me when I say to you that you will never have peace, true peace, while you are separated from Me. And your eternity must be considered. You will spend eternity in one of two places, dear little soul. You must give this serious thought and determine where you would like to reside. You say you do not believe in God or you do not believe that God would send people to hell forever. I tell you today that it is not I, the only God there is, who condemns souls to hell. It is the soul himself who chooses to reside in hell. Do you know why the soul chooses hell? Because there are like-minded souls there. A soul who aligns himself with darkness does not choose heaven because that soul would not be comfortable in heaven. You must understand that you can be angry with God but God is not at fault. You can blame God for all that is wrong with your world and perhaps this will work for you on earth. I assure you though, on this day that this will cease to work for you at the moment of your death. At that time there will be only yourself to blame as the Truth is inescapable. You will be facing the one, the only, and the true God and attempting to tell Him that He does not exist. How do you think this will go for you? It will not go well, dear soul, and that is why I am speaking to you now."
Lay apostles, do you find yourself veering off the path to heaven? If you are, think about why. Is it because if you listened to His words you would have to eliminate certain things in your life? Do you lack complete trust in Him because you have been let down in the past? My friends, Jesus only wants what is good for us. He wants us to make choices with Him in mind. Letting go of behaviors or habits which lead us away from Him can be freeing rather than restraining. Take the first step . . . just a baby step . . . and get back on track. He is waiting with open arms!
Thank you, Lord, for allowing my daughters to accomplish their goals in life with You in mind. Please continue to lead them in their careers/lives to do everything for Your Glory!
God bless,
Bonnie
In today's Gospel (John 10:22-30), Jesus reassures us He knows who we are:
The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me. But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.”
In Volume Four, Jesus again asks us to unite ourselves to Him:
"Believe Me when I say to you that you will never have peace, true peace, while you are separated from Me. And your eternity must be considered. You will spend eternity in one of two places, dear little soul. You must give this serious thought and determine where you would like to reside. You say you do not believe in God or you do not believe that God would send people to hell forever. I tell you today that it is not I, the only God there is, who condemns souls to hell. It is the soul himself who chooses to reside in hell. Do you know why the soul chooses hell? Because there are like-minded souls there. A soul who aligns himself with darkness does not choose heaven because that soul would not be comfortable in heaven. You must understand that you can be angry with God but God is not at fault. You can blame God for all that is wrong with your world and perhaps this will work for you on earth. I assure you though, on this day that this will cease to work for you at the moment of your death. At that time there will be only yourself to blame as the Truth is inescapable. You will be facing the one, the only, and the true God and attempting to tell Him that He does not exist. How do you think this will go for you? It will not go well, dear soul, and that is why I am speaking to you now."
Lay apostles, do you find yourself veering off the path to heaven? If you are, think about why. Is it because if you listened to His words you would have to eliminate certain things in your life? Do you lack complete trust in Him because you have been let down in the past? My friends, Jesus only wants what is good for us. He wants us to make choices with Him in mind. Letting go of behaviors or habits which lead us away from Him can be freeing rather than restraining. Take the first step . . . just a baby step . . . and get back on track. He is waiting with open arms!
Thank you, Lord, for allowing my daughters to accomplish their goals in life with You in mind. Please continue to lead them in their careers/lives to do everything for Your Glory!
God bless,
Bonnie
Monday, May 4, 2020
Gospel Thoughts Today: Do You Shepherd?
Dictionary.com defines the word "shepherd" as: a person who protects, guides, or watches over a person or group of people. This prompted me to contemplate any "shepherding" I have done in my life thus far. Raising my three daughters, keeping mom's mental health balanced over the years, caring for mom and dad at end of life, the blessing of adding another daughter to the mix when I married Jay all come to mind. And, the clock has reset with the addition of our three grandsons and one granddaughter (so far!). We have opportunities every day to shepherd for Christ. But do we grab those moments when they arise? Or, do we feel inadequate for the job, so we just let it pass by? Ask yourself this question today . . . do I shepherd? If your answer is yes, praise God. If your answer is no, praise God and get to work!
In today's Gospel (John 10:11-18), Jesus defines the importance of guiding others to God:
Jesus said: "I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them. This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father."
In Volume Three, God the Father asks us for our "yes" . . . now:
"My child, for so long I have watched you. In some deep area of your soul, you knew I was there with you. I choose to be more active in your life now. I choose to lead you more directly, if you will allow Me. I want My children to be united with Me, but also with each other. I require a legion of souls who are living in union with Me, their God, and who are responding to My directives. Children, along with My Son, and Mary, his mother, I am giving you every assurance of your welcome. You are being guided in an unprecedented fashion and this guidance will continue. We will shepherd you through all difficulties. Many souls think that they do not have to return to Me now because they will have time later. They procrastinate. Children, this is not what I want. This is not what I am asking of you. I say, Enough. Come to Me now. In order to enter heaven, you must accept Jesus, My Son. You know this. Do this now. Do I ask this of you so that I will have greater glory? Am I a selfish God who seeks My own comfort? Children, surely you know this is not the case. If your God is calling out to you, if your God is sending all manner of signs and warnings, you must assume and understand that your God is trying to spare you difficulty and upset. I want My children at peace. I want My children to be detached from the world, understanding that the heavenly kingdom is their home and their destination. If you are on a journey, a long journey, and suddenly you arrive at your destination, do you not celebrate? Of course you do, children. You do not say, “No thank you, we do not wish to arrive at our goal. We prefer to continue traveling.” The longer and more difficult the journey, the more relieved you feel at its end. Such celebration greets the end of a journey."
Lay apostles, search out opportunities to teach what you have learned over your lifetime so far. There are so many people wandering around without any knowledge of Christ, or misunderstandings when it comes to faith and the Church. Take the time to pass on the Word of God; if you don't feel confident, just start with "Jesus loves you." It has to start somewhere. Let it begin with you.
Thank you, Lord, for Your gentle push to "shepherd" those you place in my life on a daily basis. Help me to achieve Your Will, not my own.
God bless,
Bonnie
In today's Gospel (John 10:11-18), Jesus defines the importance of guiding others to God:
Jesus said: "I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them. This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father."
In Volume Three, God the Father asks us for our "yes" . . . now:
"My child, for so long I have watched you. In some deep area of your soul, you knew I was there with you. I choose to be more active in your life now. I choose to lead you more directly, if you will allow Me. I want My children to be united with Me, but also with each other. I require a legion of souls who are living in union with Me, their God, and who are responding to My directives. Children, along with My Son, and Mary, his mother, I am giving you every assurance of your welcome. You are being guided in an unprecedented fashion and this guidance will continue. We will shepherd you through all difficulties. Many souls think that they do not have to return to Me now because they will have time later. They procrastinate. Children, this is not what I want. This is not what I am asking of you. I say, Enough. Come to Me now. In order to enter heaven, you must accept Jesus, My Son. You know this. Do this now. Do I ask this of you so that I will have greater glory? Am I a selfish God who seeks My own comfort? Children, surely you know this is not the case. If your God is calling out to you, if your God is sending all manner of signs and warnings, you must assume and understand that your God is trying to spare you difficulty and upset. I want My children at peace. I want My children to be detached from the world, understanding that the heavenly kingdom is their home and their destination. If you are on a journey, a long journey, and suddenly you arrive at your destination, do you not celebrate? Of course you do, children. You do not say, “No thank you, we do not wish to arrive at our goal. We prefer to continue traveling.” The longer and more difficult the journey, the more relieved you feel at its end. Such celebration greets the end of a journey."
Lay apostles, search out opportunities to teach what you have learned over your lifetime so far. There are so many people wandering around without any knowledge of Christ, or misunderstandings when it comes to faith and the Church. Take the time to pass on the Word of God; if you don't feel confident, just start with "Jesus loves you." It has to start somewhere. Let it begin with you.
Thank you, Lord, for Your gentle push to "shepherd" those you place in my life on a daily basis. Help me to achieve Your Will, not my own.
God bless,
Bonnie
Friday, May 1, 2020
May 1, 2020 Monthly Message - Perfect Timing as Always
We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2020 with the message for May 1, 2012 for our prayer groups and personal reflection.
Jesus
My dear apostles, be assured that the Father blesses your work. You may not see the blessings that are given to your work. You may not see the advances that come for the Kingdom because of your work. But the Father blesses both the servant and the service, day after day. Remember that without the full knowledge of the Father’s plan, you lack the ability to evaluate the impact Heaven is achieving through your service. Dear apostles, so committed to me, please trust that I am bringing about exactly what is needed for the Father. Serve on and I will continue to bring you courage when you need courage. I will bring you strength when you need strength. Please do not be tempted to think that there is only a limited amount of strength or courage and that you will run out of these things one day. I, looking through time, watched you serving me faithfully, and from the cross I obtained every possible grace that you would need. If you have a struggle tomorrow, then you know that I have already obtained the grace for you to both endure it and overcome it. By overcoming it, I do not mean that you will not suffer. As you know, your King suffered. No, that is not what I mean. We are working together and we are suffering together. I suffered on the cross and you honor my suffering as you suffer through your life. Truly, I say to you, when I suffered on the cross, I honored your suffering and created a way for you. We are humble in suffering, dear apostles. We are humble in service. And when you come to me and I present you to the Father as a faithful servant, you will be humble in the great triumph that will be ours to share for eternity. I am with you. I will not leave you to suffer alone.
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Gospel Thoughts Today: I Can See Clearly Now
Confusing messages . . . what is the underlying meaning behind the words? Growing up with a mentally ill mother, I became extremely proficient at assessing situations and my environment at a young age. What was said behind closed doors did not reflect who we appeared to be on the outside. Talk about confusing messages! I was blinded to what a "normal" reality was for others. I only knew my world and how to survive it with my sanity intact. After reading today's Gospel, the song I Can See Clearly Now came to mind, especially this verse:
I can see clearly now the rain is gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
Why did this pop into my head (and still lingering as I write this!)? As I contemplated what I would write today, I knew exactly what made me see clearly . . . this apostolate. With all the messages from heaven seeping into my soul, I finally understood God's love for me in my flawed human condition. During the tough times and poor choices I made as a young person, I never blamed God for my circumstances. I always blamed myself for making decisions based on my emotions. All I know is God had to be by my side gently nudging me to make better decisions as any good parent does when their child veers off the path. I am forever grateful to Anne and Fr. Darragh for their "yes" to Jesus and this mission.
In today's Gospel (John 6:52-59), Jesus has His followers a bit confused but His message is clear to His followers:
The Jews quarreled among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his Flesh to eat?” Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink his Blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood
has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my Flesh is true food, and my Blood is true drink. Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood remains in me and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I have life because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on me will have life because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Unlike your ancestors who ate and still died, whoever eats this bread will live forever.” These things he said while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.
In the Monthly Message from October 2011, Jesus assures us our clear vision is needed to bring those in darkness to Him:
"All is well, dear apostles. Does this statement console you, even as you look at the changes occurring in the world? Why do I tell you that all is well when you can see clearly that difficulties have arisen in many areas? I hear the prayers of My children asking that I send relief from the sufferings that afflict them and cause them to question their security and even their faith. How often I have to teach mankind that I am the only true security and that reliance on Me will bring peace and all possible benefit to each man and to the intentions of each man. In heaven’s eyes, all is well, even as many suffer. Are God’s children suffering with the benefit of the truth? Do they understand that I am with them and that I have overcome even death? My friends, if there are those remaining who do not understand the extent of My love, then your work is not finished. If there are those remaining who do not understand that joy is possible, even in suffering, and indeed especially in suffering, then your work is not finished. If there are times when you are afraid, then you must come to Me. I will protect you from anything that is outside of My will for you and for your work. "
Lay apostles, confusion abounds in our world right now. Be the light you want to see in the world . . . don't add to the chaos. Be calm and pray, pray, pray. God has been and will always be by our side through the good and the bad. Remember the end goal . . . we WILL be Face to face with Him one day. Let's try to make it a happy homecoming!
Thank you, Lord, for the preparation given to all lay apostles during this time of confusion and fear. I am not worried in the least thanks to You!
God bless,
Bonnie
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