Take One on the Chin For Him

Todays Gospel (Luke 21:12-19) immediately brought to mind Anne a lay apostle, the "founder" of the Jesus Christ the Returning King apostolate which I base my writings on. She is fearless in the face of adversity. She continues working for Christ despite the critical words of unbelievers (or as I think of them . . . people too fearful to follow the words of Jesus and all of heaven because it may mean letting go of worldly beliefs). We were blessed to have Anne and Fr. Darragh here in Florida for a week, with two Eucharistic Days of Renewal in Melbourne and Ocala. An added bonus was Fr. Stefan, a Scottish priest traveling with them to learn more about the mission. So many messages came from the talks . . . some I have passed on to loved ones in need of solace recently. Immerse yourself in the Volumes, go to directionforourtimes.org and learn about this mission and the people who make it what it is . . . a rescue mission for souls. Thank you, Anne, Fr. D, and Fr. Stefan for truly showing kindness, compassion and love while we were blessed with your presence. Ireland is so lucky to have you all!!!

Gospel for today: 

Jesus said to the crowd: “They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

In Volume Four, Jesus has this to say to His priests, but it applies to every one of us:


"Think for a moment in earthly terms. Consider that a king travels away from his kingdom, and during his absence many servants become unfaithful. They flaunt their disobedience and generally make a mockery of the perfect order the king had designed for the harmony of his kingdom. This results in great pain and disorder and threatens the unity of the kingdom. Because of the disarray, the kingdom is no longer fit to defend against its enemies, who gradually, and with great glee, take over the kingdom and impose their own order, which is against everything this wise and benevolent king had worked to create for his subjects. Now imagine that this enemy was neither strong, nor wise. The enemy was disorganized and had small numbers in comparison. The advantage that the enemy utilized was that most of the king’s subjects had become lazy and groggy during the absence of their king. So it was with relative ease that the enemy infiltrated and overcame. But not all of the good king’s subjects were asleep. There were many who remained alert, and appalled by the disorder, sought to warn their fellow subjects. These faithful ones warned that the king would return and because he was a just king, he would punish the weak ones who made decisions against the kingdom. Some listened, some did not. Either way, the faithful ones persevered and refused to be drawn into the dark celebrations of the infiltrators. They were often ridiculed for their adherence to the laws of the good king. They found that often they suffered in other ways. Many lost material advantages, some lost family relationships because of their faith, and some dear subjects gave their lives in defense of the king. Now, imagine that this good king has been consistently apprised of this state of affairs. When his journey is complete, he hastens to return to his people. Imagine his feelings upon consideration that this beautiful and harmonious kingdom he created for his people has been turned into a lawless and ugly place where his faithful servants are persecuted. I am that King. The only difference is that I have infinite power, infinite wisdom, and I read each soul with a glance. I am returning."

Lay apostles, prepare. Prepare now for His Return. Generations of children count on you to lead them on the path to heaven. Take responsibility and be bold. Jesus is ready to help . . . all you need to do is ask!

Thank you, Lord, for Anne, Fr. Darragh and all the lay apostles I have been blessed to know. You are building quite an army, My Lord!

God bless,
Bonnie

#FirstThursday talk by Anne a lay apostle

Another powerful message from Anne:

Direction for Our Times Receives Imprimatur!!!!!

If this doesn't tell you God is leading this apostolate, well, you need to reread (or read for the first time!) every Volume, Heaven Speaks booklet, and books from this rescue mission!!! 

Here is the official email from DFOT:

Imprimatur for Direction for Our Times Materials

Dear lay apostles,

We are happy to share with you today the news that Bishop Leo O’Reilly has granted an Imprimatur for all of the writings of Direction for Our Times. This is good news and is another step forward for the Apostolate of Jesus Christ the Returning King. Below you will find the actual language, as well as the titles of the writings. Each reprint will now include the Imprimatur.

To appear in each book:

Nihil Obstat: Very Rev. John Canon Murphy, PP, VF

Imprimatur: +Most Rev. Leo O’Reilly

Bishop of Kilmore, Ireland.

The Nihil Obstat and Imprimatur are an official declaration that a book or pamphlet are free of doctrinal or moral error and that ecclesiastical permission for its publication has been granted.

The official Church diocesan commission is at a late stage of its process and therefore we are delighted to receive the Imprimatur now. We, along with you, peacefully await the outcome of that commission.

Apostles, thank you for your hard work, faithful support and kindness to us on the staff. We are seeing enormous growth in many areas so please continue to pray for us. We are here for you to support your good work in spreading this apostolate. Hopefully, the Imprimatur on the writings will make your jobs a little easier!

Faithfully,

Fr. Darragh Connolly

Chaplain

p.s- as always if you have any questions, please contact the office.

Eucharistic Day of Renewal in Florida!!

Calling all Florida (or anyone who can get here!) lay apostles!!! We have Anne a lay apostle and Father Darragh Connolly speaking in Melbourne, Florida next week, November 15th! We are so excited and thankful to lay apostle Frances Behrens for getting the Diocese of Orlando's approval in record time! Here is the event information:

Eucharistic Day of Renewal in Florida

The next Eucharistic Day of Renewal is scheduled in Melbourne, Florida. Here are the details... 

Friday - November 15th 2013 
All Faiths Center Chapel on the F.I.T Campus
150 W. University Blvd.
Melbourne
Florida
U.S.A
32901
Time: 12 Noon - 4 Pm

Questions?

For more information call Fran at 1 (321) 426-9905

Hope to see you there!

God bless,
Bonnie

November Monthly Message

Again time has slipped by without a chance to make a blog post . . . so I am a few days late posting the November Monthly Message from Jesus through Anne a lay apostle.  As usual, very impactful and gives us much to contemplate this month! 

From DFOT:

We continue our cycle of monthly messages for 2013 with the message from November 2005 for our prayer groups and personal reflection. 

November 1, 2005 

Jesus 


"My apostles will be known by their love. It has always been this way. Look for those who treat others gently and you will see My hand at work. If you begin to follow Me, you will be gentle and loving to other souls. Dear apostles, during this time I send you great graces. Everything you need comes from Me. Do not hesitate to answer My call because you feel you are not holy enough. You are called to holiness, it is true, but all genuine holiness comes from Me. If you ask Me, I will send it to you in great abundance. I notice that many souls fear a commitment to Me because they see only their own flaws and weaknesses. At this time I want you to stop thinking about yourself in those human terms. It is your humanity that delights Me, My friend. It is your humanity that gives Me glory. Souls in heaven give Me praise, it is true. And I return their love. But when a soul on earth, acting from faith, makes even the smallest gesture of love or fidelity to Me, I am given great glory and the family of God is given power. Yes, each time a soul on earth steps out for God in any way, the Kingdom grows. Do not put a limit on the importance of each little act and each little prayer. If you rose each day and pledged your allegiance to heaven with an honest desire to serve, and then went out and committed sins all of that day, you would still be considered a friend to the Saviour. Now I know that you will not do this because when you pledge your allegiance to Me, you are then wrapped in great graces. These graces assist you in each moment and illuminate My will for you so that you can more easily make heavenly decisions. But I am making a point so that you will understand that if you try to please Me in even the smallest way, you will change the world. Each prayer, however small and imperfect, fuels this renewal. Will you answer My call? I am relying on My apostles on earth to spread My words and to allow My light and love to flow back into this world. It is only a difficult job if you rely on yourself. If you rely on Me, you will see the greatest things happen in the shortest time. You will be filled with My love for others. Ask Me for this. When you do not feel My love, remind Me of this promise and I will make good on it by sending you great love for others. This prayer always reflects My will and it is always answered. If you see souls through My eyes, you will love them. Be at peace in each moment because you are surrounded by heaven. There is nothing to fear. Let love direct your actions and you will be a part of My team."

Have a wonderful week!

God bless,
Bonnie

Outside = Inside

Say what you mean . . . and, mean what you say. This is a motto which suits me well. I am not one to kiss a "behind" in order to get what I want. And, I don't appreciate when I am the one whose behind is getting kissed! False praise is lying, right? Proverbs 29:5 says it all: Whoever flatters a neighbor is spreading a net for the neighbor’s feet. It's difficult when engulfed in situations where the false praise is being slung back and forth like a tennis ball at Wimbledon. To sit back and observe it is quite interesting . . . and reinforces the importance of staying focused on Christ and, and in my case, keeping my mouth shut. I detest the falseness of flattery when it isn't warranted . . . and doesn't make sense. To clarify, I'm not talking about complimenting someone on a job well done, a beautiful dress, a great new haircut . . . if you truly mean it. I try to compliment people on a daily basis. But there is a point where people cross the line, and the flattery glares 'I want or need something from you.' We all need to take a look at our behavior when we desperately want something . . . are we flinging false praise instead of asking for what we want? Or, is the false praise used to bring attention to ourselves? Either way, work on making the outside = inside. You don't need to impress anyone other than God.  

In todays Gospel (Luke 11:37-41), Jesus teaches the importance of consistency:

After Jesus had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal. The Lord said to him, “Oh you Pharisees! Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.”

In Anne a lay apostle's book Serving in Clarity, Jesus asks us to trust Him:

"My beloved apostles who are experienced in service illustrate consistency. Always consider My will. In each moment look to your Returning King for instruction. I will have a purpose to each moment of your time on earth and it is necessary only for you to trust Me. There are many times when My purpose is obscured from you. Be at peace in this. You do not have to know what is in the King’s mind once you know what is in the King’s heart." 

Lay apostles, work on being consistent as Jesus requires of us. Jay has a great affirmation he learned during a difficult time in his life: I am free of the need to be loved, approved, appreciated or understood by anyone other than God or myself. It's a good one to remember on a daily basis!

Thank you, Lord, for all the work You have done and will continue to do so my outside = my inside. 

God bless,
Bonnie

It's That Simple

The Itsy-Bitsy-Spider/Ring-Around-the-Rosey/One-Two-Buckle-My-Shoe combo I use to sing Colton to sleep is beginning to lose its effectiveness. So I started singing the "Our Father" (our Church's version!) followed by ten Hail Mary's (my own melody!). Works like a charm. These prayers are so simple but say so much. I want Colton to know them well. 

In todays Gospel (Luke 11:1-4), Jesus tells us exactly what to pray . . . He couldn't be more direct:

Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples.” He said to them, “When you pray, say:

Father, hallowed be your name, your Kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test.”

In Volume One, our Blessed Mother encourages us to pray, always:

"Pray more, even when you do not feel like praying. Pray always, even if it is just a simple sentence, a simple thought. We are slaves to your prayers, my dear little struggling souls. We hear a plea from you and we hasten to provide every assistance. Look closely for the answers to your prayers and you will find them. Never be fooled into thinking your prayers fall on deaf ears. We work quietly and sometimes our time is not like earthly time. But we hear your pleas and share in your concerns. Be certain that we have the answers. They are here for you and we will not leave you without guidance." 

Lay apostles, we all know the Our Father and Hail Mary like the back of our hands. So when you are too tired, too upset, too (you fill in the blank), say these simple prayers. Get in the habit. Then try praying the Rosary. Don't know how to pray a Rosary? Click here to learn how. Heaven is waiting to hear from you!

Thank you, Lord, for making such a simple prayer for me to pray . . . and to teach my grandson!

God bless,
Bonnie

Showing Up

Why is it that some people only show up when they need something or it's convenient for them . . . when our expertise or faith or knowledge or compassion provides comfort or calm or direction. I'm struggling with this one today. Do we continue being the ones who show up, only to feel slighted when the courtesy is not returned? Or, do we detach with loving kindness? I'm not sure what the right answer is, but I have discovered that by detaching from the emotional side of feeling unimportant to another works for me, and uniting my feelings of rejection to Christ's. I have found by setting boundaries of what I will do and won't do contributes to a peaceful existence. I will always respond with loving kindness to anyone asking for help. The hard part for me is seeing my loved ones experience the same rejection . . . and realizing it's time to detach. It took a lot for me to detach from my past and old patterns of behavior. We are all called to be compassionate and gentle in our responses, yet Christ is very clear in terms of when our love is not received or rejected, we must detach and dust off the dirt from our sandals and move on. And, moving on means not getting stuck in negative thoughts.  

Mondays Gospel (Luke 10:25-37) reminds us how important it is to show up:

There was a scholar of the law who stood up to test Jesus and said, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read it?” He said in reply, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” He replied to him, “You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.”

But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus,  “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn, and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, ‘Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.’ Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers’ victim?” He answered, “The one who treated him with mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

In Anne a lay apostle's book Lessons in Love, she encourages us to look to Christ when the world disappoints:

"In many cases, one party must offer pure love consistently, without a return, and only over time will the other become willing to accept this pure love. It should not discourage any of us that we do not always know how to love. This should not even slow us down, any more than a small child going off to school for the first time is concerned that he does not know how to read. On the contrary, our awareness of our difficulty in loving others should make us seriously determined to show up for heaven each day, presenting ourselves to Jesus Christ as willing and eager students." 

Lay apostles, we have choices. When a loved one tries to gather the family together, do you make excuses not to attend? Is this something which happens repeatedly? If it is, take a look at why you don't show up. Is it insecurity? Is it anger? Is it because of a disagreement? Figure it out. Life is too short to hold on to anger or resentment. Love without any regrets. After all, God is Love . . . and we won't be living forever. Start practicing and show up. 

Thank you, Lord, for the lessons and challenges. Please help me to see the gifts You provide in each one.

God bless,
Bonnie

Rejection Hurts

The other night I received a phone call from a young woman just ending a very difficult day. She just needed to talk. She had suffered rejection not only at work, but in her personal life (so thankful I'm not young and dating . . . ugh!). The bottom line . . . it hurts when others feel you aren't important enough to treat with love and respect. Now, imagine how Christ felt . . . talk about the ultimate rejection! Yet He continues to love us despite our flaws and rejection of Him during the course of our lives. Remember the next time you judge someone out loud, make a negative comment, or you yourself are hurt . . . Stop rejecting Him. Stop rejecting others. It's time.

Yesterdays Gospel (Luke 10:13-16) couldn't make it any clearer:

Jesus said to them, “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum, ‘Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.’ Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me.  And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.”

In the Monthly Message of June 2006, Jesus showers us with encouragement to continue our climb: 

"I speak to My beloved apostles today from the pain of My wounded heart. I suffer for each soul walking the earth without knowledge of My love. Despite rejection, My love cannot be limited and overflows into the world. Those who do not welcome the love of the Saviour continue in loneliness. Those who welcome My love are deluged with it. Dear apostles, I know that you are weary. You do not see the full impact of your service on the Kingdom but please believe that one day you will experience the fruits of your labour. You will exult in each act of service and each act of self-denial because you will see the act attached to all of the graces obtained from it. At that time you will marvel at My generosity. You will also thank Me for obscuring this from you during your time of service because it is through this trust that you gain both merits for your eternity and conversion graces for souls. How many sinners are pulled back into My Sacred Heart through your smallest act of trust and love in the face of scorn and mockery? Dear apostles, you must consider whether or not you yourself were called back to Me through the selfless action of another. It is in this way that we are a family." 

Lay apostles, stay focused on the positive. When challenges arise, face them standing tall. Look at any road blocks as lessons or gifts given to us from Him as a way to stay on a path to holiness. He has promised to never leave us. And, Jesus only speaks the Truth.

Note from Jay: Have a great football Saturday and Sunday!!! Go FSU and Da Bears!!

Thank you, Lord, for every hurdle You have placed in my path. For without them, I would never be able to bask in Your abundant, overflowing love!

God bless,
Bonnie

Clean Up and Get Moving

Out of the mouths of babes . . . 

My youngest daughter Taylor moved back home for a few months to save some money for her potential move out west. (I say potential because I am still praying she stays in Florida!). As you can imagine, along with my beautiful daughter came "stuff" from being on her own for the last 6 years. One bedroom is completely filled with boxes and random items. The room she is sleeping in holds all things needed on a daily basis . . . clothes, computer, etc. Well, the room looks like a hurricane hit (but I have to say she is working to clean things out)! Yesterday, when my grandson Colton got here, I took him in to wake up Auntie TayTay. Now, Colton has a thing about messes. He doesn't like them. If there is even a fuzzy on the floor from a stuffed animal Jet or Molly (my daughter Whit's dogs) happens to be shredding, Colt will begin shouting, "Mess! Mess!" looking at me to get it cleaned up. It is adorable!! So back to Auntie Tay's room . . . after he gave her a kiss hello, I set him on the floor. He walks straight over to a laundry basket and sees multiple items all over the place. He begins his "Mess!" pleas, looking right at me! We laughed and Tay told him she was working on it!  Messes are usually only temporary, lay apostles, and with a little faith and hard work, everything turns out cleaner in the long run.

Colton helping Tay clean this afternoon! It was going to be a big job so brought in the lawnmower!

In today Gospel (Luke 10:1-12), Jesus tells His disciples to dust off and move on when it is time to head out:

Jesus appointed seventy-two other disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.’ Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, ‘The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.’ Yet know this: the Kingdom of God is at hand. I tell you,  it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town.”

In Heaven Speaks About Divorce, St. Anne assures us Jesus is the answer to any mess:

"It is like standing in a big mess. When you bring it to Jesus, He pulls you away from the mess, and, with a glance, reduces the mess to nothingness. He is your Healer. He is your trusted friend who will not make your cross heavier. He will make it lighter and manageable." 

Lay apostles, sometimes our circumstances seem so disorderly . . . even chaotic. Do as Jesus tells His disciples in todays Gospel. Shake it off and move on. We all have a choice. Either we buy in to the chaos becoming just as angry, fearful, entitled, or (you fill in the blank).  Or, we go to prayer and let Jesus take care of anything we experience causing us unrest. He is ultimately in control! Something I have to tell myself all the time. We may feel we are in the middle of a mess, but truly, He is working behind the scenes to create a pathway for us to climb the mountain of holiness to His Sacred Heart.

Thank you, Lord, for keeping me out of the mess of the world, allowing me to hear Your messages clearly.

God bless,
Bonnie

Take Your Guardian Angel to Church

(Running short on time, so here is my post from last year on todays Gospel!)

Angels.  Beautiful celestial beings God has supplied to protect us.  Today we celebrate the Memorial of the Guardian Angels.  This beautiful prayer comes to mind:

"Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here, ever this day (or night), be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen."

Sometimes I forget my Guardian Angel is around.  I'm taking the longer periods of "quiet" as an indicator I am making some good choices lately. Believe me, there are times I believe all of heaven fires a million warning shots only to have me ignore my conscience and make choices based on what makes me feel better . . . not what is best for my soul. My dear angel has worked overtime in the last 40 years, and saved my life a few times in the process.

When I was a freshman at Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado, I was driving over Monarch Pass home to Denver for spring break.  Three other people were on board. As I came to a two-laned hairpin curve, I slowed down, and with one hand held the wheel while the other hand ejected the cassette tape (no cracks about age here!) to change the music. At that instant, the passenger in the front seat grabbed the wheel (we were about to go off a very steep cliff) and I slammed on the brakes.  The combination sent my car rolling.  

May not be the exact spot I rolled, but you get the idea!

As you can see in the pic, it was either go off the cliff or slam into the mountain. Only by the grace of God, there was a place to pull off the side of the road to sightsee where my car landed.  I ended up with a broken nose, but thank the Lord everyone else was ok. I can imagine my Guardian Angel petitioning very quickly to move a mountain . . . 


Todays Gospel (Matthew 18:1-5, 10) creates awareness of how much God loves us. So much so he assigns each an angel:

The disciples approached Jesus and said, "Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?" He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, "Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. "See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father."

The following quote profoundly affected my oldest daughter and me when we read the following message from Jesus in Volume Nine: 

"The angels surround you, My dear ones. They minister to you in so many ways that I could not clearly explain this to you. I am going to give you some idea of these heavenly friends, however, so that you will understand the strength on your side. When you attend Mass you are praying and worshipping with thousands of angels. Your guardian angel goes with you, of course, and is so grateful for the opportunity to rest in the heavenly companionship of his fellow angels. These beings of light pay rapt attention and take such joy in praising Me. Truly, each church is filled with angels. When you enter a church and find it empty, that means that you can see no other human. But there are angels present and they welcome you as they welcome your angel guardian. This loyal servant of Mine, your special guardian, prays for you without interruption. When you are safely on the path to heaven, this angel then begins to petition heaven for greater and greater spiritual gifts. Your angel can communicate with the saints in heaven and often seeks out their intercession for you. When you are working with your angel and with the saints, you will find yourself making sublime spiritual progress because the gifts being secured are of the deepest and sometimes most indiscernible variety. You are often making progress that you do not feel, little soul, but your angel is watching it closely. When something threatens your spiritual progress, your angel attempts to warn you. He does this in many ways. You often hear whisperings, what many call your conscience. This is your angel attempting to persuade you that whatever you are considering will be bad for your cause. Your angel can anticipate danger so you should always ask him to be alert and assist you."

Lay apostles, after I read the above quote years ago, every time I brought someone to Mass who really didn't believe or want to be there, I knew I was giving their Guardian Angel time for heavenly companionship. Can you imagine the scene if we were allowed a glimpse? The next time you are dragging your teenager, a friend, or a lost relative to Mass, think about his/her angel's thankfulness for the effort.  Ignore the annoyance and know his/her angel is petitioning heaven for the soul they are assigned.

Thank you, Lord, for my dear Guardian Angel.  I am working on listening to the warnings instead of debating them! 

God bless,
Bonnie

'Grace by the Case' Update and Video

Just got my case!! 

Greetings lay apostles, 

Today we update you on the fantastic support we have received from all of the lay apostles out there helping spread the Volumes. 57 cases have already been ordered and are in the process of being shipped all over the world. We have had lay apostles order cases from Europe, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and all over the USA. We still have 93 cases remaining so consider ordering one for you or your prayer group today. Or even better, you may offer to assist a prayer group out there who is willing to share the Volumes in their area, but would like additional help in defraying the costs. 

We are also sharing the first video in a great short video series on Volume Two where Anne, a lay apostle talks with Justin about some of the concepts in Volume Two. In the video today they introduce the project and give some good insight on the assistance Jesus gives us when we commit to forgiveness.

'Grace by the Case' offers lay apostles and prayer groups an opportunity to share the Volumes at a significantly reduced cost. This works by Direction for Our Times going to print a large amount of one Volume. The added benefit is that together we push the Volumes out in a concentrated and focused effort, relying on Heaven to help us make the apostolate grow! 

Order today by clicking the the link below...

Adopt 1 Case!

$120 Dollars + (s/h)

Watch Anne, a lay apostle and Justin talk about one of the messages from Volume Two and the importance of forgiveness: Grace by the Case Update

DFOT Upcoming Ireland and UK Events

Eucharistic Day of Renewal Saturday 5th of October

The Church of St. John the Evangelist 
Ballinteer, 
Dublin 16 
Time: 11am-4.00pm 

Schedule of Events: 
Welcome & Mass 
Preview Screening of Mist of Mercy Documentary

Anne's 1st Talk 
Lunch 
Anne's 2nd Talk 
Holy Hour   

Eucharistic Day of Renewal 26th of October

Location Details coming soon!

Coundon, Co. Durham 

Time: 10am-4pm

Schedule of Events:  

Welcome & Mass  
Preview Screening of Mist of Mercy Documentary

Anne's 1st Talk  
Lunch  
Anne's 2nd Talk  
Holy Hour  

Monthly Lay Apostle Prayer Group Thursday 3rd of October

St. Anne’s Church
Bailieborough,
Co. Cavan
Time: 8pm-9pm 

Schedule of Events:
Holy Hour and Anne’s Talk

Confession Available

What Is Your Strength?

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

In todays Gospel (Luke 9:1-6), Jesus offers us His advice of planting the seed and walking away:

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

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

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

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

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

God bless,
Bonnie

A Mother's Endurance

Teenagers . . . a time you never imagined when holding your precious newborn. A time for hiding the fact you are out in public with your mother. One incident will forever stand out in my mind . . . a Friday night at the local movie theater. My middle daughter Whitney had to have been around 14 or 15 years old. Walking from the parking lot to the crosswalk leading to the theater, she stopped me short. "Mom, OMG! You are not my mom, but my sister Amber home visiting from college." I just looked at her. "What?" I asked (with no attitude whatsoever!).  She had spotted some people from school (she had just started her freshman year of high school) and was horrified should she be spotted with her . . . groan . . . mother!! Always up for a bit of charades, I jumped right into character as her new friends approached! I can't remember if her friends bought it or not, but "Amber" comes up every once in a while. Now that Whitney has a son, I try to prepare her for those teenage years. Her response is usually, "it will be different with Colton. He knows Jesus and Mary from day one and will not be a typical teenager." Uh-huh, I think to myself. You just wait my sweet baby girl. I pray I live long enough to see my girls with teenagers of their own!

Todays Gospel (Luke 8:19-21) made me wonder if Mary knew Jesus' response when told of her presence. But then we remember the great faith and endurance our Blessed Mother had to possess as the Mother of God:

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

In Anne a lay apostle's book Climbing the Mountain, she teaches us the power of endurance:

"But you and I can suffer with Jesus. In fact, we can do something even more remarkable. We can take the suffering for which we have no control over anyway and we can transform it, through our patient and obedient acceptance and endurance, into a supernatural release of grace for our salvation, for someone else’s salvation, and now in preparation for Jesus’ new, dynamic coming into our time, in whatever form that takes."

Lay apostles, it takes a lot of faith, love, patience and endurance to go the distance for Jesus. The end goal is heaven for all eternity. If we stay focused on that goal, our reactions/actions become more Christlike. As parents, we are in it for the long haul. The more humility and endurance we show our children, the better they will be as parents. So if they choose to call you their "sister home from college," smile and remember how you felt about your parents at that age . . . 

Thank you, Lord, for the endurance You blessed me with as a parent of three girls. And for the laughs all the trials and tribulations of their younger years give us now at family gatherings!

God bless,
Bonnie

Be Grateful In Everything

My grandson Colton and I have our routine three days a week. He makes a beeline for his toys when he comes in the house. Plays for a bit, then we sit down and read his books. Then it's nap time, so we sing songs until he is asleep in my arms (pure heaven!). He wakes up usually an hour later and I feed him lunch. After lunch, it's out to the tree swing in the backyard for a few minutes. During swing time, I always ask Colt if I should put a flower on Mother Mary's head (it is right next to his swing). He usually points out which flower I should use. Last week, he wanted to do it himself. As I stood above him, I had to take a picture of this beautiful sight. Every day I spend with this baby boy, the Light of Christ becomes brighter and stronger. I am so grateful for every single grace He has provided me in this life. I am especially grateful for something I longed for since Mal and Whit each got married . . . grandbabies. Throw my fiance Jay in the mix and my life is exactly where it should be.

In todays Gospel (Luke 8:16-18), Jesus shines a light on being grateful for everything:

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

In the March 2012 Monthly Message, Jesus reminds us He is the Way:

"Please, dear apostles, remain faithful to Me. Allow Me to direct your contribution and you will be blessed and consoled. Through your fidelity, others will also be blessed and consoled. When we are finished with your work on earth, you will come to Me in fullness and you will understand all that I accomplished through your willingness. I will not steer you into what is bad for you but into what is good for you. Continue on in trust and be grateful that I have chosen you to serve God's Renewal." 

Lay apostles, take time to write down your blessings in this life. Are there experiences from the past judged to be disastrous which now seem to have been a blessing in disguise? Think of how God has diverted your path during times of trouble and led you to something better. How about miraculous events you never imagined possible? If you think about it . . . really think about it . . . I know your list will be long. Mine is and I see His Hand in it directing me to this point in my life. 

Thank you, Lord, for all the blessings . . . compassion for those divorced, mentally ill, or sick in body. Patience for Your timing, not mine. For friends and family who have stuck by me through thick and thin. And most importantly, for the love of an amazing Catholic man, my daughters and step-daugher, my sons-in-law and grandsons.  

God bless,
Bonnie

Listen . . . the Pope is speaking!

Guest blogger: love of my life, Jay!

Over the last couple of months, I’ve had conversations with non-Catholic buddies and I’m shocked at how many of them are closely listening to and watching this Pope.

Mike, a good Jewish friend of mine, has followed Pope Francis from day one . . . and loves not only what he is saying, but how his actions are consistent with those words.

I have a Methodist friend, Bobby, who reads whatever he can on this Pope. He said that in the past, his view of many Catholics encountered has been that many of them seem more elitist, cold, and judgmental than other Christian faiths. He said this Pope is the first Pope, as far as he could see, was leading and living Christ’s total message by example. He is quick to point out that for years other Popes may have communicated that message directly to the Catholic membership, but this Pope seems to be communicating and welcoming to all people around the world back to a union with Christ.

Recently,  a Christian minister in the Rotary Club to which I belong shared that he loves seeing Pope Francis reaching out not only to people of all faiths, inviting them back to a real and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, but noted that he especially seems to be calling Catholics who have fallen away or been rejected back to the church.  He went on to share that he did a survey and 40% of the membership in his Methodist church today were previously Catholics.  Not 5% . . . not 10% . . . but 40%! He said he loved having them but knew in his heart many were still continuing Catholic tradition while in his church. He said what was sad is there was so much hurt that had been done over the years by humans in the local Catholic Church leaderships and was quick to point out that he did not believe it was due to Catholic tradition or Christ’s Command. He said he believes that this Pope is calling those Catholics home and the Pope’s words and actions are a great start. This minister said he wants to see this group of hurting people healed and believes many will return to the Catholic tradition if truly accepted back. He stated that the success of the Catholic Church will be determined by how well the local church leaderships live and emulate this message.  Just like any other church or organization, he cautioned that there will be many “sacred cows," power struggles, and human egos deeply entrenched with their own goals and desires and will need to be overcome.

Jesus did not discriminate. Jesus did not judge those coming to listen to His message. Jesus was not an elitist. Jesus lived and backed His message of forgiveness by His actions. Our Faith is entering a new season with huge potential to bring many souls back to Jesus. Jesus mentored what it looked like to be an invitation when He encountered Mathew in today’s Gospel (Matthew 9:9-13):

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

In the booklet Heaven Speaks to Victims of Clerical Abuse, St. John the Apostle illustrates these points further:

"Heaven is filled with repentant sinners so if you repent, you will fit right in with us in that way, also. None of us judges. We leave that for Jesus. You do the same. Confess your sins and step away from the patterns that are hurting you. Come back to Jesus now in all trust. You are welcomed and cherished. Only good things will result in a decision for your God. Close your eyes and know that the forgiving eyes of Jesus Christ rest upon you. There is nothing to fear. He understands everything." 

Lay apostles, what is being asked of us is clear and simple. Jesus is asking us to use any and all of our talents to invite people back to Him. When? The time is now!

He shares in the messages that the end of time is fast approaching. The world is not stamped with an expiration date and none of us come with one either. No one knows how much time we have left or how much time the world has . . . but we do know Jesus is asking us to act boldly . . . now!

Lord, thank you for giving me the great blessing of your ceaseless love. Thank you for the choice to say “yes” to your invitation. Thank you for the ability for second, third, and fourth chances. Thank you for giving us the love you choose to give us and not what we necessarily deserve. Help us to be the invitation locally . . . in our families . . . in our churches . . . in our communities . . . of people coming back to live a joyous life with You!

In gratitude and humility,
Jay