Re-sculpture Yourself

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Priest

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Jeremiah 18:1-6
This word came to Jeremiah from the LORD:

Rise up, be off to the potter’s house; there I will give you my message. I went down to the potter’s house and there he was, working at the wheel. Whenever the object of clay which he was making turned out badly in his hand,  he tried again, making of the clay another object of whatever sort he pleased.


Happy Feast Day to Saint Ignatius!    I've always been a fan of St. Ignatius and his Spiritual Exercises.  I try to make an Ignatian silent retreat every one or two years.  My next one will be scheduled for late September.

When I discovered the Find Your Inner Iggy website, I just had to create a St. Ignatius image in honor of his important feast day. (See my creation in today's blog image!) One of the aspects of Ignatian Spirituality I like the most is using imagination in prayer and meditation.  Creativity allows me to connect with The Lord in a more intimate and personal way. I enjoy placing myself in a bible scene, imagining what it felt like to be a woman back in antiquity.  Women have it so much easier in modern day times!

The potter's wheel   Oftentimes, I feel like I'm slaving away at the potter's wheel, working hard to sculpt my life in ways where I can grow and develop into a better Christian.  Sometimes my pottery creations come out fantastic.  They are perfectly molded, smooth and circular.  Perhaps I received kudos for a job well done, or someone thanked me for helping them out. I was able to think positively about a situation instead of my default pessimistic viewpoint.  Maybe I even came closer to accomplishing a personal goal I've attempted for a while.  In good times, I find being a Christian isn't so difficult.  When I'm happy and feel good about myself, I'm naturally drawn  to help other people, pray more, and be more involved in the faith.

Then the dark moments of my life creep forward.  As I work at the potter's wheel, my new piece of pottery is full of cracks and flaws.  It's lump sided and uneven. It's not a work of art that I can share with others.  Instead it's something to throw out in the dumpster!  Perhaps I've let my temper flare up.  I feel sorry for myself and resentful of others.  I don't give a flip about praying for others or even being around others.  The pottery wheel spins in circles around and around.  I have to make a vigilant effort to stop the revolutions and not allow evil to taint my heart and mind.  (I think Satan loves to attack us in are darkest moments of despair).  My seemingly worn out potter's wheel stops functioning, locking up and giving me fits.  That's when it's time to start over and begin anew.  With God's grace, fix my broken wheel and begin recreating inspiring pottery.  Refuse to allow life's burdens and weaknesses to get me down.  God is right beside me at the potter's wheel! Satan can just go away and pout for a while....

Re-sculpture yourself. One thing great about Christianity is the way God forgives us over and over again.  When we fail, he encourages us to get up and start over.  God knows we are  imperfect creatures. All of us are like clay pots with blemishes, unevenness, and even a few cracks here and there.  However, we can better handle our imperfections and weaknesses by forming a close, intimate relationship with the Lord. We should regularly receive the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession.  They are so healing and helpful in refocusing our lives.

I think it's important for us as Christians to continually re-sculpt ourselves by examining our consciences and thinking of ways to improve our lives.  Maybe we should attend Mass more often or pray more regularly.  Maybe we should forgive those who have offended us, or forgive ourselves.  Sometimes we are our own worse enemy!  In the re-sculpturing process, we begin to see outside our own selfish desires and notice the needs of others.  Perhaps we are called to volunteer with refugees or at a homeless shelter.  We should mimic our lives as closely to Jesus as possible.  This is one difficult task because we live in a disposable culture where "Me" takes precedence over "We." However, through the work of the Holy Spirit, it can be done!

We can all change our lives for the better!  Let us sculpture the clay of our lives into ways that are pleasing to the Lord.


St. Ignatius, Pray for Us!

-J.

Martha, Martha, Martha!

Memorial of Saint Martha

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Gospel of Luke 10:38-42

Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.” The Lord said to her in reply, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things.


When I read today's reading, an episode from "The Brady Bunch" came to mind.  Jan Brady complains to her mom and dad about how Marcia is always the center of attention crying out the famous line:  "Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!" Jan is jealous and resentful of her popular and beautiful older sister.  Just for once she wishes she could get something special for herself.

Many of us can relate to Jan Brady - most definitely Saint Martha.  Here Martha was busy serving and preparing a home cooked meal.  Her sister Mary appears lazy sitting around chatting away with Jesus. Anxious and burden, Martha has difficulty accepting idleness.  A woman just doesn't sit around not working!  There's a house to clean, meals to prepare, children to raise, and husbands to serve.

Martha is clearly a worry wart!  She doesn't understand her sister Mary is busy listening and learning from Jesus' wisdom. Everybody serves the Lord in a special way.  It may be action-oriented (apostolic), contemplative or both.  Some people are called to hands-on ministry such as working in a soup kitchen, visiting prisoners, sidewalk counseling in front of an abortion mill, or helping refugees find a safe place to stay.  In comparison, other people feel called to contemplation.  They rather pray in weekly adoration, participate in novenas, or be a prayer warrior for a specific cause.

We become anxious and worried when our expectations are not met. We may get upset with the other person or withdrawal into a state of despair.  Saint Martha was stressing out and needed help!  Well, at least she thought she did.  What Jesus wanted her to do was calm down.  Let her sister do her own form of "work" even if it did not rank up there with Martha's expectations.

 All of us are wired differently.  We must not judge or condemn others for  not being just like us!

Are you a Martha or a Mary?  I'm much more of the Mary type.  I'm sure Martha would scorn me good sitting outside talking with Jesus while the pot over-boiled and the fish burned.  Oh well.   I'm not much of a domestic type.  However, it's good that Martha was so devoted to serving as a cook and caretaker.  Her hospitality will forever be honored and remembered.

We should reflect on Martha's answer to Jesus when Lazarus arose from the dead:

“Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.”

Let us come to believe just like Saint Martha!

Saint Martha, Pray for Us!

-J.

Loneliness Just Plain Hurts!

  

I'm typing this post from an iPad as my precious dachshund licks my arm.  I call her my canine massage therapist.   A dog makes a terrific companion, especially for a single person.  When I get home from work, my senior pooch always greets me with a wagging tail, ready for belly rubs and treats. She'll lick, lick, lick until I tell her to stop.  That's how much she loves me.  I  wish humans unconditionally loved just as our beloved pets.

Loneliness is wearing me down, numbing my thoughts and causing me to feel sick all over.  Even with a terrific dog, and a good relationship with the Lord, I still ache for human companionship.  Some days I can deal with my singleness fairly well.  Other days are sheer torture.  Right now I'm in a period where loneliness actually hurts.  My heart is sad and my stomach tied-up in knots.  I feel like I've developed an ulcer just from the stress of having to do everything alone.  I never imagine I'd hit the fourth decade without a boyfriend or a husband.  I always knew I'd never have children. (I won't go into detail on why this is. All I know is that God has not called me to be mother.) Most people have done the marriage and family thing by my age.  Why not me, too?  I feel defective in many ways. 

 What's wrong with me?  Why can't my life run a normal course like the majority of people?

I have family and friends.  It's not like I'm a total recluse.  I just happen to still be unmarried when  most of my friends are married.  I'm childless whereas my friends have children.  I'm too old to hang out with the Milllennials and too young for the Senior citizens! I'm kind of in a state of "limbo" where it's difficult to relate to the married folks or the divorced in my  generation.  Back in my 20's and 30's it was more socially acceptable to never-be-married.  Whenever I went out on the town, guys noticed me! They'd look at me and flirt.  Now that I've reach the middle-aged digits  I'm becoming invisible. My lower estrogen levels and graying hair don't exactly raise eyebrows anymore.  The young have so much more going for them.  I consider myself an attractive woman and haven't let my looks totally go. It's heartbreaking and agonizing to no longer be noticed. Unfortunately, my days of one night stands and relationships based on only the physical are long gone.  I've matured quite a bit.  However, many of my male counterparts haven't. Certainly my strong religion and moral values are not too marketable in the dating "meat market."  Oh well.  My priorities have changed. I guess I rather be lonely than miserable with the wrong man.

Singleness and Loneliness has definitely made me question my placement in the Roman Catholic Church.  I  never thought of it as an issue until this past weekend.  When I attended Mass at a sister parish, I looked at the crowd.  So many parishioners made up of families with young children.  My eyes teared up as I felt anxiety-induced chest pains.  Here I am sitting at the end of my pew all alone among so many beautiful families.  The Catholic Church loves the big family!  She wants all of her faithful to be fruitful and multiply!  Yet, I'm there single, childless, and by myself.  No man looking at me.  No man desiring me.  No person caring that I'm present.  I felt totally out of place.  The following thoughts played in my mind:  How can I be a member of a religion who is so family-focused and doesn't tailor to the needs of the single lay person?  How can I relate to young, vibrant, beautiful families with their numerous children as a middle-aged single?  Unfortunately, I was not blessed with one ounce of motherly instinct.  No wonder I'm so alone and undesirable.  Men must "smell" that I'm not worth bothering and run away.  Even the parish priest didn't spend two seconds talking to me until he was off to chat with the family of five with the gorgeous mother and college-aged daughter! Uh!  Am I really that dreadful of a soul?. .... 

Why on earth did God put me on this planet?  Am I supposed to be lonely the rest of my life?  Am I supposed to fake a smile , happy for all of the charming little families and  retired empty-nesters?  Yes, I know, being single isn't bad.  Priests and nuns are single.  But that's such a huge difference. I'm definitely not called to a religious vocation.  I just need to accept this single never-married status  even though it doesn't feel natural.   Oh Dear Lord, please help!  Being single and alone is awful right now!"

Anybody feeling lonely out there?  Maybe you can relate to this post.  The only way to remedy loneliness is to get out and about.  Get active in a parish even if you're  single among all  married couples with children.  Volunteer for a missions trip or a community service project. Something I'm trying to do to help relieve my loneliness and anti-social tendency is to go out on the town once a week. This past weekend I went to a local theatre to see a musical. Wednesday I'm off to a concert to see one of my favorite rock singers perform!  Next week I will drive over to the museum.

 Loneliness doesn't have to hurt knowing that God is present with us. He understands our inner souls better than any human person.  With him and through him, we realize we are not destined to be lonely forever.  Heaven gloriously awaits us!  We must keep digging and keep molding our souls toward holiness.  Transfer our broken and lonely hearts into something loving and beautiful.  

-J.

A Priceless Pearl

Sunday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Matthew 13:44-52

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls.  When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells as that he has and buys it.

Several years ago I went on the quest to find a nice set of  pearl earrings and necklace.  I've never owned fine jewelry but always thought I should have some beautiful pearls just in case I get married someday.  I searched on the Internet and discovered the PERFECT pearls:  Natural salt water pearls from Japan with a high rating for luster and lacre.  I ordered them immediately.  They came in a beautiful presentation box along with a certificate of authenticity.  I don't wear my pearls very often, but when I do I feel like I've wrapped myself in luxury. They remind me of this scripture passage from Matthew:  He finds a pearl of great price.

Searching for the finest   Many affluent people search for the finest in clothing, jewelry, food, wine, travel, and other splendors. They have the money to buy whatever their hearts desire.  They can afford the best the world can offer.  They are constantly on a quest to outshine others with their extravagance.  Owning fine possessions is not necessarily a bad thing; however, when it's all consuming and the focal point of one's life it goes against what God truly desires.  The finest earthly possessions should never outweigh God's request to be charitable to one another. Why don't we give the finest to people in need instead of hogging it for ourselves?

The priceless pearl  The merchant who finds that priceless pearl - so beautiful, so perfect, so exquisite and so rare- will buy it right away.  He will sell all he owns to afford it.  The pearl is that special!  It's worth so much more than anything imaginable.

I think of the priceless pearl as Christ himself.   His Sacred Heart beats and his blood pumps as he gives life and meaning to everyone who believes in him.  Holding this sacred pearl in the palm of the hand symbolically wipes away fear and uncertainty.  The pearl immediately brings a positive outlook on life.  The soul is no longer broken but is healed.  The pearl represents everything that is good and holy.  The Kingdom of Heaven will be decorated with fine pearls and jewels.  It's so phenomenal that earth won't even stand up in comparison!   

When we reflect on our lives, circumstances may not look so good. We may worry and agonize on problems that we don't think will ever be resolved.  Moreover, we may obsess on what we don't have compared to others.  Maybe our neighbor discovered that priceless pearl and things appear so perfect.  Life is not about perfection.  Life on earth is not all about money and possessions.  Life is about preparation for heaven.  We need to live every day as if Jesus will decide it's time for us to pass on. Will we be accepted into the Kingdom of Heaven?  Have we led a good life?  Have we followed God's commandments?  Have we searched for the precious pearl of Christ, selling our selfish ways and deciding to follow his ways and teachings?  

-J.

Why Parables?

Thursday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

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The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Why do you speak to them in parables?”He said to them in reply,“Because knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been granted to you, but to them it has not been granted..... they look but do not see and hear but do not listen or understand."

During my 2nd year of the University of Dallas Catholic Biblical School, one of our assignments involved writing a parable.  With pen ready to compose, I imagined standing on the mountain top next to Jesus as he preached.  I observed his hand movements and gestures.  From his viewpoint I noticed the look of amazement in the eyes of the crowds. Also, the disciples in the scene wondered why Jesus spoke to the people in such a different way.  

Why parables?  Christ was a master at parables.  He presented divine truths in the form of symbolically rich stories easy to remember.  He knew heavenly mysteries were not easily understood.  The possibility of confusion and disbelief existed.  By masking the meaning in the form of a parable, the crowds adapted the message to their own life experiences. This still rings true for Christians today. Every time we read a familiar parable in scripture, we apply its meaning in a new and fresh way.  

Christ passed along the parable "answer key" to the disciples exclusively.  He knew his chosen ones would listen and understand the message. His disciples needed strong knowledge of the faith so they could proclaim it with fervor. With this "answer key" they spread the good news of the gospels to the masses.  

Look but do not see  Many times we are blinded by superficial and physical beauty.  We become mesmerized by attractive men driving their fancy cars or gorgeous women dressed up in the latest couture fashion.   We want to date them, be around them or even become them!  Unfortunately, looks deceive.  The most beautiful person may be filled with hate and prejudice whereas the ugliest person is filled with love and compassion.  

It's human nature to gravitate toward the sensual.  It feels good, looks nice, and brings about pleasure.  But do we pay attention to the subliminal messages? Is there more to the sensual than meets the eye? I think of popular Hollywood celebrities who are gorgeous physically but on the inside they are filled with pride and vanity. These popular stars cast aside the idea of God because their world revolves around fame and fortune.

Christians are called to "see" the inner goodness and beauty in others.  We should adopt an attitude of gratitude in God-fulfilling ways.  Turn away from filth and turn our eyes in the direction of holy pursuits.  Look at Christ's work of salvation and see his greatness!

Ears but do not hear   Have you talked to someone you knew wasn't listening? You can tell from the way the eyes shift or how glued the person is to an electronic device.  The ears are present but the hearing switched to "off."  Perhaps the person is uninterested in the topic of conversation, or they are too consumed with their own concerns.  Such rudeness and insensitivity is quite a common every day occurrence.  Relationships can dramatically improve if we only stopped and truly listened to someone else. We miss out on a lot of good when we fail to listen.

Our Lord told many parables where people refused to listen.  Their lack of understanding automatically tuned out anything they could possible learn from Christ.  The same goes for us in modern day.  We may not like what we hear, especially if it's politically or religiously charged, so we turn a deaf ear.  Furthermore, we may like only part of the story but ignore the rest.  I've listened to a few boring homilies over the years where I thought "Wow, this is not very good."  Then when I reflected back on those exact same words I get an "Ahh Ha!" moment.  The Holy Spirit directly spoke to me but not in a way that I felt was engaging or entertaining.  Sometimes Our Lord talks to us in subtle, ordinary ways.  It's up to us to keep our ears open and listen to those quiet, hidden words.  The Prophet Jeremiah looked for God to speak to him in a loud  commanding way but instead Our Lord communicated through a faint whisper.

Let us always keep our eyes and ears open so Christ can convert our minds and hearts! Next time we read an all-too-familiar parable, let us prayerfully meditate on it and see what new spiritual fruit we will receive from the story's message.

"Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.  Alleluia!"

-J.

I've Seen the Lord!

Memorial of Saint Mary Magdalene

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Gospel of John 20:1-2, 11-18

Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni,” which means Teacher. Jesus said to her, “Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them,‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and then reported what he told her.

The feast day of Saint Mary Magdalene brings fond memories of the night I received Confirmation and 1st Eucharist in the Catholic Church - Easter Vigil 1998. I remember the tall paschal candle adoring the altar and the choir singing like heavenly angels.  My friends and family watched with anticipation as Monsignor placed the blessed sacramental oil on my forehead. What a beautiful experience!

I carefully chose "Mary Magdalene" as my confirmation name.  I always felt a closeness to her.  I relate to her deep love for Christ, her sincere devotion, and her willingness to learn and serve.  Throughout the Lenten Season, I wear my Mary Magdalene pendant as a reminder of her special role in the Passion and Resurrection. I like how the Church places Mary's day of remembrance in the middle of Ordinary Time.  The Lenten and Easter Seasons have long past; however, we're once again reminded of Christ's resurrection and Mary's important role as first witness and messenger.

Why are you weeping?   Anyone who has suffered a deep loss can relate to Mary Magdalene.  The inner pain and sadness is excruciating and mind-numbing.  Tears overflow and the weeping seems endless.  I recently found out a wonderful woman at my parish passed away after a long battle with cancer.  She and I became good friends.  I wish I had the chance to join her for lunch like we always planned to do, but I never got around to it. I feel a little guilty for not sharing that meal.  I thought we'd have all the time in the world to get together.  

Don't take life for granted. Spend more precious time with friends and family.  We never know when God may decide to take us away from this earth....

I know this wonderful friend and fellow Catholic convert is no longer in pain and discomfort.  She's not weeping from heaven but smiling.  She's telling us to wipe away those tears and be strong. Keep witnessing to the Faith.  Be as strong as Mary Magdalene.

Stop holding on!   In our grief and misery, we may have a hard time letting go.  We simply cannot admit our loved one is gone.  We become depressed thinking life cannot move on without the person. God doesn't want us to be sad forever.  In fact, he wants us to realize there is so much joy awaiting in heaven.  Why hold on to the image of someone sick and suffering?  Why hold on to the pain of  the death of a baby when that child is now in heaven curled up in the arms of Our Blessed Mother?  Grief is about mourning the loss of someone special for a brief period of time.  Life is worth living and not weeping or mourning.  We can turn that grief into beautiful service for the Lord.  We can ask God to heal our hearts and our minds so that we can let go.  Imagine our loved ones in the arms of the Lord in Heaven!

O lamp of the world and shining pearl, you were worthy to become the Apostle to the apostles by announcing the resurrection of Christ: O Mary Magdalene, be for us always a holy intercessor with God who chose you.

Saint Mary Magdalene, Pray for Us!

-J.

A Sign of Our Times

Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Matthew 12:38-42

Some of the scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus,“Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” He said to them in reply, “An evil and unfaithful generation seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it..."

It's been quite a miserable last 24 hours.  I woke up in the middle of the night with massive burning erupting from my stomach.  Then the vomiting started.  I didn't eat anything unusual except a little too much garlic. (Garlic soup plus three pieces of Texas toast smothered in crushed garlic and butter...)  I love the stuff and totally forgot how really potent it can be.  I laid in bed praying to Our Lord:  "Please make this burning and nausea go away.  This is shear torture!"  I was on the brink of callling 911 - That's how bad the pain was.  I panicked thinking I had a ruptured appendix or something else major going on. Finally around 1:30 am the pain ceased, and I was finally able to get a few hours of zzzzs.  

As I'm typing this post, my stomach still doesn't feel right.  I managed to eat a bit of food. I'll just have to wait and see if it digests okay without anymore unpleasant side effects.

Signs of illness  Our bodies naturally warn us when bacteria, virus, or a foreign substance attacks.  Signs include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and fatigue.  If it wasn't for acute "signs" of distress, we may not think to go to the doctor to get checked out.  

Sometimes the signs of distress are clearly visible, but we decide to ignore them.  Maybe a family member is displaying signs of suicide.  We think it's just a phase he is going through.  He's just talking about this to get attention.  He won't ever do anything to hurt himself. 

Signs of mental and physical illness follow us everywhere.  We see it within ourselves as well as others.  But we may think to ourselves:  Should we take the signs we see seriously?  With so many hoaxes and people playing games to make us believe something is happening that's only fiction just adds to confusion. We begin to distrust. It's hard to tell what is real and fake.

No Signs for the Scribes & Pharisees  In today's gospel, Jesus says no to the request by the scribes and pharisees to produce a "sign" that he is the Lord and Messiah.  He doesn't think they deserve it.  They are prying the Lord for information so they can turn it against him.  Jesus clearly doesn't trust the "evil and unfaithful generation" to use the sign for the benefit of the Kingdom of God.  In fact, it will only benefit those who are jealous of Jesus and wish to make a mockery out of him.

The sign of our times aren't much different than when Jesus walked on earth.  We still live with evil people who want to only use others for their own ambitions.  We are surrounded by propaganda and media that's hard to tell is fact or faked.  How many times have we seen "signs" of alien life that didn't exist?  How many times have wackos warned us that the end of the world is near (i.e. end of the Mayan calendar)?  On the flip side of the equation:  How many times are signs of God present and we choose to ignore them?

Don't be evil and manipulative like the Scribes and Pharisees.  Be more Christ-like in actions, words, and deeds.  You will be blessed by doing what is right and just.

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- The Plight of the Migrant Child

 

My heart aches for the thousands of children who've crossed the Texas border in a brave effort to escape gang violence and poverty rampant in Central America.  They've endured intense fear and uncertainty.  Will they make it to the US border alive?  Will young girls shield themselves from sexual assault and rape?  Will young boys out-manuever the gangs so ready to force them into a life of crime?  It's lonely and dangerous fleeing from violence to the Land of Freedom.  Unfortunately, America's lack of efficient immigration policy and reform selects to automatically deport "illegal" immigrants, including innocent children, instead of welcoming and protecting them as refugees. They may not make it back to their homeland alive if they are deported! These natives of Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador are knocking at the border fence desperate for help and mercy.  These innocent children have no family to care for them.  Maybe their mother and father died.  Maybe their brothers and sisters were forced to work in a drug gang.  Or, maybe the family took the risk, allowing their child escape from the poverty and violence for a chance to start over in America. 

One thing I don't understand is this:  America is quick to threaten military strikes on Middle Eastern.  We are quick to protect the freedoms of the Iraq people.  However, we appear  to ignore the gangs and corrupt governments of countries south of the border.  No oil money is involved, so of course we adopt a "It's your problem" mentality. No wonder some Americans say:  Keep the foreigner out!  Our country is already too crowded with people who refuse to speak English! They take away all of our jobs.  Throw them out and let them deal with their own troubles!   Until we eliminate corruption and violence in these countries, we will experience the problem of illegal immigration.  Clear and simple.  Immigration reform is necessary and vital for our nation.  I wish Congress would stop all of the bickering and come up with a bi-partisan solution.  

I think more immigrants prefer to stay in their native country if it was safe and secure.  Adapting to American culture is no easy task, especially living among people who think negatively, often loathing  different cultures.  I remember in the early 1900's when immigrants from Italy, Ireland and other European companies traveled by ship to New York.  They desired a chance for a fresh new  start.  They were "illegal" immigrants at some point but managed to establish successful lives despite ongoing discrimination and prejudice.

Also, I think of the Israelites who escaped Egypt for the Promise Land.  They were clearly illegal immigrants when they arrived in Israel.  They weren't kicked out and deported back to Egypt.  They were given a new chance at a life free from slavery, violence and abuse.  Why can't we do the same for the Central American immigrants, especially the homeless children?

Thank God for Catholic Charities, the American Red Cross, and other non-profits who care for these refugees.  I pray the new immigrants be given the legal resources necessary to stay in this country.  In the meantime, our government needs to make a diligent effort to engage in peace talks with the Central American countries. Develop ways to eliminate crime and corruption.  Find ways to help elevate the poverty so people won't need to flee to America.  I know this is a lot to task for, but I think it can be done.  

As Christians, we should accept and welcome the immigrant, especially if he or she is escaping poverty, violence or persecution.  Don't cast them aside and send them home!  Welcome them with loving arms.  Care for them and give them the healing they so deserve. Continue to pray for the end of corruption and violence in our Central American countries.

-J.

Pulling Up the Weeds

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Matthew 13:24-43

“The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a man who sowed good seed in his field.  While everyone was asleep his enemy came and sowed weeds all through the wheat, and then went off.  When the crop grew and bore fruit, the weeds appeared as well."

Pulling up the weeds  Whenever I feel stressed-out, I go out in my backyard and start hand-pulling up weeds.  I make sure to remove from root so they fail to re-sprout.  Digging in the dirt calms my raw nerves as the sun shines and wind whisks through my hair.  Each weed is symbolic of a burden or cross. Maybe I'm angered by a critical remark.  Maybe I feel guilty for treating someone rudely.  Maybe I'm frustrated with myself because I'm not living up to my full potential. 

Life appears to be a weedy mess!  In fact, difficulty lies in distinguishing the "bad" weeds from the healthy "good" plants.  Some weeds mask their evasiveness by producing pretty little yellow, purple or even pink flowers. Their foliage is very similar to the neighboring flora.  Even the bees and the butterflies pollinate the beautiful flowers.  However, such  weeds begin to take over the rest of the lawn.  Those pretty flowers turn into large and ugly thorns with a itchy sting.  A once well-manicured lawn looks unsightly.  Weed killer becomes the only way to attack the problem since hand-pulling doesn't do the job as efficiently.

 Don't be so quick to kill    As humans, we tend to judge people and circumstances in a spur-of-the moment fashion. We make assumptions based on how someone dresses, walks, or talks.  We may even pre-maturely classify someone as a "weed" who is actually a very good person.  Just because they don't drive a nice car or wear nice clothes doesn't mean they are a criminal or a homeless person!  In my own life, I've been quick to run away from people who look weird.  I don't feel comfortable around them.  Actually, I feel a little scared by their presence.  But, once I get to know them I realize they are not all that bad.  They love and hurt just like the rest of us.  They may symbolically look like a weed that needs to be pulled up, but in actuality they should be harvested along with the rest of the wheat crop. 

The owner of the the wheat field was very wise in instructing his slaves to allow the wheat and weeds to grow together.  Both the wheat and weeds were too young, too immature, to be distinguishable. What if the good crop was uprooted by mistake?  

In our own lives, we should take the time to allow the harvest to grow.  Don't be so quick to remove the weeds.  Some of the bad people and circumstances we encounter may actually be beneficial to us.  Remember that God places situations in our life to teach us something.  If we accidentally pull out a weed, we may miss the opportunity for spiritual growth.

Weedy schemes  Now, there are times when weeds are true weeds sowed by the Evil One.  The devil loves to trick us into believing such a weed is essential to the landscape.  I can't help but think of telemarketers, door-to-door phony salesmen, and email spammers fall into this category.  They are nothing but annoyances.  Pull one up and another one pops in its place.  As a single woman and homeowner, I've experienced a number of "weeds" trying to rip me off!  Fortunately, my detector can identify and get rid of such pests.  Not all people are as observant.  I find it sad when elderly people are victimized by ponzi schemes and fraud.  These individuals lose their entire retirement savings to scammers and thieves.  

I hope people who prey on the elderly as well as young children will be justly "weeded out" at the time of The Last Judgment.  Jesus Christ knows the evil that lies in their hearts and understands the harm they've done to others.  Will they end in hell?  It's all up to God and not us to make the final determination.

Let us all strive to enter the Kingdom of Heaven by living good lives. Refrain from quickly judging without all the facts.  Try to see the good in people but also be aware of others who only want to use and abuse.  Weeds and wheat grow together.  It's up to us to know right from wrong.  

-J.

When Lightning Strikes

Thursday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus said:“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

When lightning strikes to  This morning I drove to work as lightning illuminated a sky filled with large black clouds. Total and complete darkness overshadowed the sunrise. How eery and unrestful!

This summer we've experienced unusual weather patterns - little pockets of thunderstorms hitting one area of the Metroplex while another remains hot and dry.  We need as much rain as we can get.  Living a few miles from the lake, areas of the once beautiful water have transformed into a low-lying forest.  I find this sad because I've always found water to be relaxing and soothing.  However, when lightning strikes and thunder roars, the outpouring deluge of rain  shifts into something more threatening.

My thoughts turn to the Lord every time I see changes in the weather. A sudden thunderstorm causes me to run for cover.  An unpredicted ice storm warns me to stay off the streets.  A long-ending heat wave prompts me to stay hydrated and in cool air conditioning.  

The Lord provides us with the intellect to decide the right thing to do when we face irregularity in our lives.

Like the weather Our life can suddenly change like the weather.  One day we're enjoying the bright sunshine as we picnic with family at a nice park.  The next day we're shedding tears when we discover a loved one has passed away. Along with these tears of mourning, we face the burden of planning a funeral and making sure all of deceased's affairs are in order.  We may turn to the Lord and ask:  "Why did this happen?  Everything was going so great in life.  Now this?  I don't know if I can handle everything!"

Life with all its moodiness and unpredictability allows us to grow wiser.  We begin to learn from the best of days and worst of days.  When lightning strikes, causing us to worry about our burdens and struggles, our remedy is turning over the reigns to Christ.  Jesus  provides us with the rubber soles and lightning rod so we can secure and protect ourselves from life striking us in ways that leave us hopeless and disillusioned.

When we become meek and humble of heart like Christ, we don't carry on and on about how horrible our lives are.  We don't over-dramatize the bad in our lives or think everything will always be so wretched.  In fact, we begin to understand that life's ups and downs show that we can manage circumstances much easier with Christ by our side. 

 Praying, meditating, and regularly partaking in the Eucharist gives us the strength to keep trekking along that narrow path to holiness.  The journey is a difficult one.  Thunderstorms, ice storms, and periods of drought will convince us that we should give up.  Our burdens are just too much to handle.  Yet, we know circumstances will change.  Darkness will always return to light.  

Find rest in the loving hands of Christ.  Lift up your burdens and struggles to him, and he will provide needed relief.  Remember Christ loves us unconditionally and is always ready to help!

-J.

Woe to You!

Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

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Gospel of Matthew 11:20-24

Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done,

since they had not repented. “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida!.."

Woe to you, Mr. or Ms.!  Jesus is not at all happy.  People who've seen his marvelous miracles still refuse to repent.  They are stuck in their own ways and customs.  They refuse to listen and obey.  Jesus warns them that their lives won't end any better at the time of judgment.  In fact, they may lose a chance to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  Their words, actions and deeds do not match up with what is expected of them as Christians.

Woe to the city!   Crime, corruption, prostitution, drug abuse, illegal sex trade, and other abuses are rampant in many cities across America.  Innocent lives are ruined in the process.  Obviously, evil is more desirable than good.  Money, fame, and political clout more important than poverty, humility, and charity.  The city's doors shut at the mention of God.  It's closed for business when it comes to listening and following the Way, the Truth, and the Life.  How can we turn the city around?  How can we make it a good and decent place to live?  Why do we continue to accept crime and corruption as the norm?  It's time to shake up the modern-day city and stand up for what is good!  Continue to pray and continue to work to end the evil abuses so prominent in city government.  

Woe to Relief!  With all of the warnings of woe, there's a chance at relief.  Repent from our evil ways.  Foster goodness in our minds and hearts.  Discover ways to help others where they don't need a life of crime or prostitution to make ends meet.  Discover ways to keep corruption out of our city governments.  Elect officials who are ethical and live with integrity.  Most important of all is to remember that God remains in our midst.  Pray for his guidance. He's very willing to help us when asked.  But, when we turn our backs to him we say to him that we can make it on our own.  Why be self-serving when we can be selfless? 

Personally, I don't want to live a life of woes but live a life with options:  An option for happiness and love.  An option for peace and harmony.  An option to believe that Christ will change circumstances that may not be so great.  Evil is powerless under God's control.  Repentance is the key to relief!

-J.

Enemy in the Household

Monday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Memorial of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Virgin

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Gospel of Matthew 10:34-11:1

Jesus said to his Apostles:“Do not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth.

I have come to bring not peace but the sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and one’s enemies will be those of his household...."

No peace on earth  In today's gospel reading, Jesus makes it clear that his ministry will not bring about peace on earth but discord and friction.  Jesus' word will be accepted or rejected.  Jesus will be loved or hated.  In fact, people will continue to fight among themselves all in the name of God.  Who is God?  What is God?  How should we worship God, if at all?  Do we love God above all other earthly creatures? Do we desire to help others and receive God's mercy?

The Dysfunctional Family   We may think the real enemy is a co-worker who gossips or the neighbor who double parks in the alley.  Maybe the "enemy" is the drug dealer who supplies dope to the high school or the corrupt city council official who accepts bribes.  Sadly, the biggest enemy comes directly from our own households.  

The dysfunctional family has become well known in American culture.  Reality television shows, movies and You Tube videos love to showcase family members yelling and screaming at one another.  The more tension and negativity the higher the ratings.  Americans enjoy a good "fight" especially if it involves the teenager against the father or two siblings.  The iconic dysfunctional family "The Simpsons" appear rather tame compared to all of modern-day reality show fights.

What does this say about peace in the family?  It clearly shows that families struggle to get along.  Jesus predicted this from day one.  The mighty sword will keep families on the battleground, unable to see past disagreements and forever experiencing tension.

 Family Life with Christ   Families who regularly attend church services and pray together tend to be more unified.  Yes, disagreements still arise; however, they are more efficient at handling them.  

At times, tension develops in a family when a young adult decides to leave the faith.  He or she may convert to atheism or become "spiritual but not religious." This can be devastating.

Christ will lead a fallen away Catholic back to the Church some way and some how.  It may take years but it will happen.  Many times people have returned to the Church on their deathbeds.  They seek reconciliation and final rites. Looming death made them realize that made a mistake turning away from their family or God.  Fortunately, God is so ready to forgive.

As a family:  pray together; attend mass together; communicate with one another; seek counseling if needed.  Do whatever it takes to remain in peace and harmony.  Family is the backbone of our society. Let's do all it takes to keep the family together - healthy and strong.

-J.

Sowing Seeds for A Good Life

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Matthew 13:1-23

“A sower went out to sow.
And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path,and birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky ground, where it had little soil. It sprang up at once because the soil was not deep, and when the sun rose it was scorched, and it withered for lack of roots. Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it. But some seed fell on rich soil, and produced fruit, a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold. Whoever has ears ought to hear.”

A Good Seed    The sower always sows good, viable seed.  Presented in its tiniest, most vulnerable form, the seed is the Word of God.  This precious seed produces a bountiful and rich life when planted and nourished.  We each have a choice how to accept the seed of life.  Do we allow evil to take control, robbing us of goodness, kindness, and love?  Do we accept the word of God in only a limited way, picking and choosing what we believe?  Do we allow anxieties, worries, and distractions to push us away from the Word?  Do we take the time to study the word, understand the meaning of the word, and preach the word to others?

Along the beaten path  Jesus sent his apostles into the world with simple instructions to proclaim the good news.  These brave twelve never knew what type of situation they'd be exposed to.  Some areas accepted the Christ's teachings with enthusiasm and excitement.  The seed, planted and allowed to reach maturity, blossomed into deep love and devotion to Christ. Other communities felt threatened by the disciples, rejecting Christ's teachings.  These people allowed the birds to eat the seeds of faith spread across a very wide, beaten path and not the narrow path to holiness Jesus calls us to follow.

Ears ought to hear   When we attend Sunday Mass, we should listen to the scripture passages and homily with an openness and desire.  Allow the word of God to transform us into better Christians.  Oftentimes we step into the doors of the church with burdens on our shoulders.  We rather ruminate about our woes than listen and pay attention to what the priests says.  

In a sense, we are thrown good seed each time we attend the sacrifice of the mass. We should harvest those seeds and plant them in the lives of people we know and don't know.  Yes, some people will toss the seed aside, but others will decide to accept and nourish the seed to maturity.  The word of God is very powerful.  It will reach its targeted audience in due course of time.  

Nourish and feed the seeds of the word of God and allow it to transform into a good, holy life!

-J.

Nothing is Concealed Forever

Saturday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Matthew 10:24-33

Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light; what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul....

The Baby Bump  Recently, I heard a shocking rumor around the office about one of my coworkers having an affair with a woman in another department, and they're now expecting a baby.  At first I didn't believe what I heard.  I happen to be good friends with this man and his wife.  At first I discounted it thinking: "He'd never do such a thing!"  But then when I saw the woman's growing baby bump, and their close interaction with one another, my heart sank.  Since I didn't want to make any assumptions, I decided to ask him in person if the rumors were true.  He confirmed everything saying how terribly guilty he felt.  However, his divorce was finalized, and he was looking forward to the birth of his new daughter....  A few days earlier, I happen to see his girlfriend walking in the lobby. I smiled, asked when she was due, and congratulated her on her pregnancy.  From that moment on she appeared to like me.  In fact, she told her boyfriend "how sweet" I was to her.  I can only imagine the guilt and embarrassment she felt with the unplanned pregnancy.  

We all make mistakes in life, and I certainly didn't want to condemn my friend and his girlfriend.  (I'm sure some other people may have not been as kind!) Everybody now knows the situation in the office.  Rumors have subsided.  What was concealed has now been revealed.... 

Something concealed and now revealed  When we try to conceal sinful actions from God, they will always be revealed.  Guaranteed!  People can break the law for years and years thinking they managed to slip by the police, but then they are suddenly caught red-handed.  Just like a concealed weapon, we may have a gun in our pant pocket, our purse, or even in our glove department never planning to use it.  However, one day a situation happens requiring self-defense.  The gun is exposed and the trigger fired.  Maybe we hurt or even killed someone in the process.  I can see why gun control legislation is such a controversial topic.  Living in a pro-gun state, I never know who may be walking next to me on the street or driving a car in my lane carrying a weapon of some sort.  If I tick that person off, a firearm may "reveal" itself right in my direction.  Scary! 

Turn whisper into a loud proclamation  Our Lord does not want us to go around whispering and keeping the Gospel Truth quiet.  It's meant to be proclaimed loudly and with great zeal.  

Our Internet age thrives on misinformation, rumors and inaccuracies.  People tend to believe more in myths than real honest truth. (Just think about the number of YouTube video hoaxes over the last few months!) As Catholic Christians, we must turn around the lies and reveal the hard honest truth even if it's uncomfortable and against social trends.  Our priority is to defend Catholic Church's teachings, not being afraid of ridicule or contempt.  Just as Jesus endured criticism, so will we.  As the old saying goes:  Stick and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me!  In fact those sticks, stones and words can never kill a soul united with Christ.  Enemies will try over and over again but will fail.  The soul is strong and resilient.  Even if we are martyred for taking a stand against evil, our soul will find eternal rest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Our Lord will reward us for a ministry well done.

Speak the truth in the light of Christ and never conceal what should be revealed!

-J.

What is REAL Love?

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, [love] is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures  all things.  

On Catholic radio yesterday, I heard an interesting discussion on love.  (I wish I knew who was being interviewed.  I caught the talk midway through....)  The gentleman explained that all of us as human beings were designed by God to unconditionally love.  As a result of the fall of Adam & Eve, the capacity for human beings to unconditionally love suddenly changed.  Men and women began to place "limits" on how much love they could give one another.  However, emotionally and spiritually they still crave that unconditional love deep within the soul.  Tension and discord arises because that unconditional love can never be fulfilled.  Original sin forever converted human's unconditional love into conditional love.  Many marital problems may stem from this disconnect.  

I was mesmerized by this theory! It invited me to reflect on the question: What is REAL love?  

Real, genuine and authentic love is not what appears on television or in the movies.  Real love is not all about sex!  Real love is not about sexually provocative lingerie, On-Demand porn, romantic song lyrics, or using and abusing another person for sexual fulfillment.  Love goes much deeper.....

Our techno-society cheapens love.  Love is no longer portrayed as something special, intimate, beautiful, and mutually-fulfilling.  It's all about "getting off" or "take a little pill to help ED" or "read about 10 ways to be an outstanding lover."  YUCK!  With such images of "love" I can see why some people become totally turned off from dating or having a relationship of any kind.  (Myself included!!)  Love becomes equated with using someone or something for selfish gratification. 

In my own life, I've struggled with the concept of love. My mother and father divorced when I was six years old.  I never had a really good father figure to teach me how to discern between good and bad men, so I always fell for the bad guys!!  I've been used (and even emotionally abused) for so many years that I've become bitter.  I have trouble trusting men.  I have difficulty acknowledging that I am worthy of ever being loved.....

I have declared my "love" to a few boyfriends in decades past. Sadly none of them reciprocated that love. (Heartbreaking!!)  They "liked" me as a person but didn't want me as a wife or mother of their children. I was only seen as "a fun gal to hang out with" or "very attractive and sexy."  It was only the physical they were after and not my true inner self.  They never saw my inner beauty.  As a result, I have developed rather poor self-esteem when it comes to "love" relationships.  My heart is bursting to love someone with all of my might, just like Christ loves me!  However, I've developed a skewed view of what love is all about.  Simply stated:  I don't know if I can ever love again!  

Please don't misunderstand.  I deeply love my family and friends!!  I'm speaking about romantic love.  Love that turns into a blessed marriage.....

REAL love is all about giving and receiving.  It's about appreciating and respecting another individual for his/her uniqueness.  Love is about sharing with one another and seeing the good in one another. Authentic love doesn't encourage a person to run away from their mate because he/she is having a bad month.  Love flows with the highs and lows of life.  Love realizes that a person will never be perfect, but is still worthy of acceptance, warts and all!

I hope some day I will love again.  I think it will take a lot of prayer and inner healing from my life's artificial love wounds.   I must remember that God unconditionally loves me!  GOD IS LOVE!!  That should be satisfying on its own.  I may feel lonely at times without a viable soulmate but what's to say I won't grow stronger in wisdom and self-assurance.  This will help me attract that someone special who really does love me for the inner ME and not my physical appearance only.

Authentic love is complex.  It's emotional, but it's way worth the investment.  Don't go for cheap love but go for Christ-like love that nourishes and fulfills the mind, body and soul!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Preferential Prayer: I Will Pray For You Only If....

When busyness overwhelms both my personal and work life, prayer takes a seat in a back corner.  I feel guilty when I don't spend quality time with the Lord...And then I obsess over the devout people I know who always make the time for fruitful prayer.  They are joyful and fun.  They are never morose or down on themselves.  They have this inner peace in their overall demeanor.  I love to be around them and speak to them on a regular basis.  Yet, in my own heart I feel like I can't measure up.  Resentment builds.  As a result, my rather pitiful prayers become dry and fruitless.  It's as if the devil takes a hold of my natural inclination toward low self worth, setting up a minefield in my thick skull:  "My gosh that young woman is  fantastic.  Everybody loves her and thinks she's so special and a prized treasure.  She's always smiling and so full of life!"  Then, the  most AWFUL thought comes to mind:  "Why should I ever pray for her?  She's already saintly and so loved. My prayers won't make a bit of good! In fact, I secretly wish I had her beautiful  life.  She's such an admirable Catholic who can do no wrong!"  

What is preferential prayer?  This is when we pray for someone based on specific conditions and bias.  If we like someone, and are close to them personally, then we will pray for them without any reservation.  However, if we hate someone  with a passion then we may pray for them out of Christian principle, but these prayers lack heartfelt sincerity.

I think the deadliest form of preferential prayer is when we refuse to pray for someone we envy or harbor resentment against.  Automatically we think they are "goody two shoes" and snarl at the thought of their presence.  Why pray for someone who is already loved and admired?  Why pray for someone who is popular and can do no wrong?  Why pray for someone who is already a natural Saint? Why pray for someone everybody else thinks is a God-send, flowering with natural humility?

Jesus NEVER, EVER wanted us to pray with conditions attached.  When we pray, we must pray for everybody regardless of our own prejudices.  Our prayers should be sincere and focused on the good of the other person.  The Devil loves to make us think prayer is a worthless use of brain power! In fact, he will throw distractions in our path to prevent us from praying! We must fight this temptation.  We must rid ourselves of envy and prejudice we harbor against someone else we may "think" is perfect but struggles just like the rest of us. 

The woman who goes to Daily Mass, always smiling  and so friendly may be suffering from loneliness....She needs prayers.

The young college student on the mission trip who makes straight A's, nominated as class president, and loved by everybody for her natural sweetness may be thinking about committing suicide....She needs  prayers.

The drunk on the bus ride  to work who sits by you every day who stinks to high heaven.  Why won't he disappear? ...He needs prayers.

The co-worker who got offered the position you applied for is going through a financial crisis.....He needs prayers.

The parish priest who is so popular and loved by everybody for his charisma and natural sense of empathy may be struggling with his vocation.....He needs prayers.

"I will pray for you only if..." should never cross our minds as faithful Christians.  Yes, at times we struggle with our prayer life.  Maybe we cannot form the right words.  Maybe we experience difficulty concentrating while praying the rosary. Maybe we are flat out angry and don't give a flip about prayer!  This is when we should turn to God at our moment of weakness.  Drop everything that we are doing and get down on our knees.  Block out the negative thoughts and ask our Lord for guidance.  Think one good thought about somebody:  a friend, a person you envy, or an enemy.  Lift that praise up to Christ!

When times are tough and it feels like my prayer life is scorching out in the hot desert, I need to make a strong effort to get out of my own self!  Think of others.  Pray for others regardless of what I may think about them.  What I think isn't necessarily the truth.  What I think may be far from the truth.  What I think is nonsense compared to what the Lord thinks.  The Lord thinks all of his created beings are beautiful and worthy of love!  Our own sinful nature corrupts that belief.  We can change our prayer patterns at any instant.  It just takes resolve and determination.  Our Lord is there to guide, as always.

Stay away from preferential prayer and move towards heartfelt, sincere and fruitful prayer!  It can be done.  We just have to take the time out of the busyness of our lives, erase the envy and resentment, and PRAY!

-J.