2015 Rewind

Seventh Day of the Octave of Christmas
New Year's Eve

1 John 2:18-21

Children, it is the last hour; and just as you heard that the antichrist was coming, so now many antichrists have appeared. Thus we know this is the last hour. They went out from us, but they were not really of our number; if they had been, they would have remained with us. Their desertion shows that none of them was of our number. But you have the anointing that comes from the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.

On this New Year's Eve morning, as I  meditate on the scripture readings, I rewind my mind back through 2015.  Overall, it has been a good year with many challenges and achievements. I would not be where I am at today without a steadfast and solid Catholic faith. 

This year has been one of momentous growth and maturity.  I managed to successfully prepare and sell my home.  I bought a brand new car.  Both transactions happened on my own initiative.  I am very proud of getting the job done (as a single female) without relying on my family or friends to do it for me.  Yes, it was difficult and stressful.  I didn't think I'd pull through, but in the end I triumphed.  Once again, Jesus and his Blessed Mother guided me along the way.  They knew I could take a hold of the reigns and change my life's direction with courage and strength.

After settling into my new apartment, 2015 instantly changed from one of good fortune to despair.  Like everything else in life the highs must follow by the lows.  Nothing stays smiling and happy forever.  If it did, we would not learn from our mistakes or feel a need to pray to God as a source of healing.  The tragic death of my dog which still cuts through my bones.  The sad passing of my great aunt and godmother.  The news that my contributions to a blog will no longer be needed as the author has shut it down....  All of these reversals leave me sad wondering Why?  Of course, I need to stop asking God "Why?" and graciously accept the inevitable.  Our Lord does what he does because he has better in store for us!  With death springs new life and with an ending follows a new beginning. 

One thing I love about meditating about scripture and writing reflections is how much the thought process restores a sense of hope and peace.  I realize that those who lived in bible times experienced the same circumstances we do today.  Just in a different era of time without the luxuries and sophistication we enjoy today. 

How did Mary, Joseph and Jesus celebrate a new year?  The calendar was way different back in the day.  No Chinese fireworks or loud firecrackers.  No bubbly champagne overflowing from glass flutes.  Definitely no fall of the Big Red Apple.  Perhaps New Year's Eve was spent in prayer at the temple or in festive communion with friends and relatives.  I am sure the celebration was peaceful.  The Holy Family looked forward to a new chapter in their lives - one devoted to the Lord.

During the last hour of 2015, let us acknowledge the God's blessings and thank him for giving us LIFE.  Despite the highs and lows, twists and turns, smooth and rocky roads we are still here on earth.  We have a new year awaiting us where we can choose to use our gifts and talents for the benefit of the Kingdom of God.

I look forward to 2016 as I select "stop" on my 2015 rewind.  I have learned what I needed to learn.  Now it is time to move on.  Keep the light of faith burning.

“The object of a New Year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul and a new nose; new feet, a new backbone, new ears, and new eyes. Unless a particular man made New Year resolutions, he would make no resolutions. Unless a man starts afresh about things, he will certainly do nothing effective.”  ― G.K. Chesterton

-J.

I Write To You, Cyber World

The Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas

1 John 2:12-17

Do not love the world or the things of the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world.  Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever.



As we approach the New Year, I think of decades past when the "cyber world" did not exist. Life appeared way less complicated.

Families congregated around the dining room table, enjoying conversation and a good meal together.  No such thing as cellular phones, video games or online streaming to distract old fashion togetherness.  People wrote each other hand-written letters; today the impersonal email and text message replace the postman.   Men still cherished the normal everyday woman; however, the ever growing  pornography addiction has robbed the true sense of beauty.  Women as they rise to the top of their career ladders, often becoming more successful than their male peers, understand loneliness.  Will they ever meet men who are just as successful and want to raise a family as a married couple?

To me, a less complicated world is perceived as a more naive world.  Complexity allows us to grow in experience, wisdom, and prudent judgement.  However, with this complexity comes along social problems.  We no longer have Jesus walking around healing the sick, the blind, the lame, and the crippled.  We now rely on high tech machines and costly pharmaceuticals to do the curing.  Furthermore, we no longer live in a country where worshiping God is encouraged; in fact, having religious faith is seen as a "naive" practice.  Why all the focus on strong moral values?  Don't we live in the 21st century where everyone is "open minded" and free to do what they want, when they want and how they want? 

We live in a cyber world full of delights and pleasures.  Yet, with all of the social "fun" surrounding the Internet and our electronic whims we lose the meaning of life.  We are meant to help one another, not use people for our own personal gains.  All of this non-stop entertainment makes me wonder what our "cyber world" will be like 20-30-40 years from now.  Will people stop going to a brick and mortar church?  Will there be mega "Internet" churches spreading all across the globe where people  just text and sing to one another through websites?  Will the Eucharist still be the center of our Catholic faith or will it be replaced by some kind of pseudo-communion only offered through the Internet?  I know:  Sounds absolutely ridiculous.  But, it something we should think about.....Most unsettling of all...Will we be able to preserve our Catholic traditions forever?

Now, in the same style as author of the 1st Letter of John.....

I write to you, Cyber World,
because of your enticing thrills.
I write to you, Cyber World,
because your entertainment cannot compromise the Truth.
I write to you, Cyber World,
because I believe in Christ Jesus.
I write you you, Cyber World,
because Faith, Hope, and Love will never go away.

-J.

The Presentation in the Temple

The Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas

Gospel of Luke 2:22-35

The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Mary walks up the temple steps holding the Christ child in her arms.  Alongside his wife, Joseph carries the pair of pigeons, a gift of homage for the ceremonial blessing that will soon take place.

Simeon and Anna, through the Holy Spirit, discover this tiny little infant is the chosen one from God.  Decades spent blessing young children according to Jewish custom; years spent watching, waiting for the Holy Child of God.  Here he finally appears in front of them!  Simeon holds the Christ child,  so innocent and pure. How glorious!  How wonderful!   A child destined for the rise and fall of many in Israel found his way into the world. How will such a precious child hold so much hope for the people?  What will he do for the salvation of others?  Will Mary later understand Simeon's prophesy - "you yourself a sword will pierce?"

This famous scripture passage that we pray during the recitation of the Joyous Mysterious of the Holy Rosary shows the importance of obedience and tradition.  Mary and Joseph could have declined the blessing in the temple.  Jesus is the Son of God.  Why would he need a blessing from an old priest?  The blessing is for the entire family, surrounded by ancient tradition.  Such tradition guaranteed that the Lord would look after, watch and protect the family.

In modern day, we ask a priest to bless our homes or a prized piece of jewelry.  Our entire Christian faith involves the blessings God bestows on us every day.  What if we ignored those blessings?

I am sure Mary and Joseph felt a little uneasy about their son being a sign of contradiction.  Nobody wants to hear their child will cause trouble.  Yet, through obedience the Holy Family accepted God's Will.  Whatever happens will happen; whatever is meant to be will be accepted with faith and humility.

-J..  

Life Taken By Surprise (An Original Poem)

Life taken by surprise

The night howl, the sun rise.

Don't know what to expect,

Peaceful tide or rough ride.

Things go smoothly for a while

A silk road, 

A glass surface,

Translucent and safe,

Clear of purpose.

Life's road no longer safe

Pitted and rugged, somehow misplaced.

What happened here? Why the madness?

So much thrill, now utter sadness.

Foggy glass, sandpaper road

Cannot see, blurred and alone.

Why this darkness? Why me?

What did I do to deserve Thee?

Grim Reaper's visit way too soon,

So much more to say and do,

Please not now, some other day,

Leave my loved one here to stay.

Cannot control life's destiny,

God's path is not foreseen,

Keep faith alive, 

Mourn the loss,

Love forever,

Never forget the Cross.

-J.

Mourning Holy Innocence

Feast of the Holy Innocents, Martyrs

Gospel of Matthew 2:13-18

When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you.

Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt.

He stayed there until the death of Herod,

that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled, Out of Egypt I called my son.

My blog readers probably wonder, "Where did Jennifer go?"  I'm still around... just hiding myself in the reality of life.  A rough last few weeks is not for a weakling like myself who handles bad news as if a knife piercing flesh.  My heart feels like it's been shattered into thousands of little pieces.  Through Our Lord's mercy, those pieces will be sown back together as the mourning subsides....

My goal to write a meditation each day of Advent failed to materialize. I found words harder to put together as work woes hit me hard. Rumors about the company not doing well, people leaving, and a mysterious "Severance plan" legal notice sent to salaried employees worried me.  Moreover, the sudden loss of my pet didn't help lighten up the mood.  Things got even worse after I found out my Godmother passed away only a day after my sweet dog.  Good grief.....When it rains sadness it pours! I never expected two deaths the week of Christmas.  Needless to say, it has been a surreal Holiday season, but I know my faith will help me overcome grief.

We had fierce tornadoes hit the Dallas area.  My new apartment was spared; however, the other side of town where I used to live got hit.  The tornadoes touched down only a few miles from my old neighborhood.  I am curious if my old fence is still up or the roof damaged.  Thank God I moved to my new home when I did.

I had my dog's body cremated and her ashes placed in a lovely wooden box.  It sits on a table right next to a memorial I made in her honor.  After my dog was hit by the car, I cried for literally three days straight!  However, the small wooded box of ashes brought a wonderful sense of comfort and peace.  Something very unexpected yet welcomed.

My Godmother's funeral is today - on a cold, rainy and snowy day.  Family members posted on Facebook needing donations to help pay for the funeral.  Evidently, my Godmother's estate didn't have enough funds to pay for some "miscellaneous" funeral expenses.  This just breaks my heart even more knowing that such a wonderful and special woman as my great aunt died penniless without even enough money to dig her grave.  The last thing a mourning family needs to worry about is who will pay for a burial.  Thanks to my grandfather my Godmother's funeral expenses are covered.

During this time of sadness, I have received many condolences from friends and family.  It's good to know I am not alone in my grief.  So many others understand what it is like to lose a loved one, a pet, or even a child during the holidays.

Today's Feast of the Holy Innocents is a sad reminder of just how precious life truly is.  I think about abused and neglected children; children killed in the womb; children used in human trafficking; children born with cancer and birth defects.  Why does God allow horrible things to happen to such beautiful young ones?  One of those questions that remains unanswered....

I know mourning will turn into acceptance; sadness into joy.  My heart will return to its whole self as my grief moves on.  I know my guardian angel continues to watch over me.  My Godmother is with my dog, smiling from the heaven, forever in peace and tranquility.

-J.

Rest in Peace

Fourth Sunday of Advent

(Click Here for Readings)

He shall stand firm and shepherd his flock by the strength of the Lord, his God; and shall remain, for his greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth; he shall be peace.

I write this meditation with a very heavy heart.  Yesterday morning, I witnessed an horrific accident that still leaves me raw and achy inside; my heart both bleeding and weeping with sadness. Why did such an awful thing have to happen during the Holiday season?  Here I should be celebrating the birth of Jesus; instead, I mourn the sudden death of my beloved pet.

Saturday morning I took my precious dachshund, Cayenne, to the vet for an exam and yearly shots.  She jumped out of the car before I had a chance to get her leash on, running to a grassy area in front of the vet clinic.  She looked at me with those big brown eyes and grey face as if to say: "Mommy! I'm free!  Let's play a game of Catch me if you Can!"  My sweet little girl loved to play chase where she'd run along the sidewalk and then roll over for a belly rub.  I'd be out of breathe by the time I caught up with her.

This fateful morning Cayenne walked a little too far out into the street. As she stood staring at me, a car hit her throwing her body under its rear wheels.  I screamed in terror as I rushed onto the street.  The accident occurred only a few feet from the vet clinic, so I quickly picked up her body and brought her inside.   I remember screaming and crying in agony.  My God! I cannot believe this is happening! Please do not allow my dog to die!  It's not her time yet...please. Nooo.....!  Yet, deep in my heart I knew her injuries were very serious.  She did not move even though her heart still beat and her eyes remained open.  No cries or whining.  Cayenne had very distinctive vocal sounds, yet I heard nothing.  

The veternarian and staff did everything they could to save Cayenne but her lungs were impacted by the blunt force causing deep internal bleeding.  She was pronounced deceased 30 minutes later.  I went back into the examination room to say my final goodbyes.  It was so hard to see my beloved dog so lifeless; her friendly, loving and curious personality gone.

Thank God the lady in the car stopped.  She came into the clinic and just hugged me tightly saying how sorry she was.  Everything will be okay. Do not worry. Your dog will pull through!  I could not blame her for the accident but blamed myself instead.  If I had only put that leash on inside the car, which I always did religiously, I would have saved my dog's life.  Hindsight is twenty-twenty...However, I cannot control what God has in motion.  He felt it was time for my sweet dog to pass over the rainbow bridge.

 I believe God presents us with subtle signals about how our lives will change. We must pay very close attention because the signs are not always obvious or make sense until later on.  Last weekend when driving over to All Saints for Sunday mass, I witnessed a squirrel get hit by a car.   I remember thinking how surreal and sad. I see an unsettling connection.  Hmmmm....

My apartment is so quiet without my dog to snuggle up with me, steal my table food, or bark at the neighbors.   No more walks around the golf course or trips out to the country.  No more barking at squirrels and birds.  I will miss the joy and companionship my dog gave me for so many years.  She lived to be over 11 years old.  Her "unofficial" birthday happen to be on Friday.  I adopted her in December of 2009.

I realized this weekend just how short life is for all of us, including humans and animals.  We should cherish our friends and loved ones. Always be prepared.   We never know when the Lord may decide a special person or animal is ready for eternity.

I hope my precious dog is having fun in pet heaven running around free enjoying lots of food and treats.  Experts say that animals do not possess souls like humans do.  But, for my own personal comfort, I'd like to think everybody's pets will be reunited with their owners at the end of time.

Rest in peace, my dear Cayenne.  I miss you.  Mommy will always love you.....

-J.

Dreams & Ancestry

Thursday of the Third Week of Advent

(Click Here for Readings)

Matthew 1:1-17

 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.

Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar....

For the past three weeks, strange and vivid dreams keep disturbing my restful sleep. I am not quite sure why my subscientious is so overactive right now.....

In one dream scene, I sat in a lecture room on my old college campus.  In another I worked in an old laboratory, one of my first jobs out of college.  Then just two night ago I dreamed of walking into my grandparents' old house they lived in 35 years ago.  It still stood as I remember it with a chain linked fence, but the inside was trashed out with overflowing toilets and trash everywhere.  It looked more like a hoarder's house than a neatly maintained home.  

I will go through periods with little-to-no dream recall.  But, at other times the nocturnal images bombard me non-stop.  I often wonder if the Holy Spirit is try to send me hidden messages.  Perhaps I need to worry less, rest more, and just let things go!  Then maybe my mind will settle down.

Nobody ever "dreamed" that the Gospel writer Matthew would include the genealogy of Jesus at the beginning of his gospel.  Why such a boring litany of hard-to-pronounce names? This is not one of the easiest passages to read, that's for sure.  Yet, knowing the "blood line" to Christ helps us better understand connections between people in the Old and New Testaments.  Christ is the ending of a great beginning!

Ancestry is important to all of us.  In fact, it has become a multi-million dollar enterprise.  Companies like Ancestry.com make it easier than ever for people to chart their family tree, even taking DNA tests to determine what countries they originate from.

I have embarked on a personal ancestral journey of my own by participating in National Geographic's The Genographic Project.  By taking two cheek swabs of my DNA, and then sending off to the DNA laboratory for analysis, I will  be able to trace the areas of the world my ancestors originate from, as far back as 10,000 years.  Supposedly, the test will determine if any of my genes are of Neanderthal origin.  Yes, an alternative human species!  I kind of chuckle at the idea of being neanderthal.

Dreams and ancestry....both go hand in hand.  We dream of our ancestors as we recover our past.  What can we learn from those related to us?  How much do we share in common with those people of the past?  God is a part of the ancestral framework!

-J.

Go Tell It on the Mountain

Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent

Luke 17:18b-23

And Jesus said to them in reply,“Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”

After reading today's gospel,  the familiar song "Go, Tell It on the Mountain" came to my head.  We used to sing it at the Baptist Day Care Wednesday chapel service....

(Verse 4)

When I am a seeker,

I seek both night and day;

I seek the Lord to help me,

And He shows me the way:

Go, Tell It On The Mountain,

Over the hills and everywhere;

Go, Tell It On The Mountain

That Jesus Christ is born.

John's disciples sought out the Lord to ask him if he was "The One" - The Messiah.  They witnessed the blind regaining sight, the lame walking, and the lepers cleansed by the hand of this stranger from Nazareth.  Once again our Lord does not answer the question directly but alludes around it.  He knows he's been discovered, yet his humility keeps him from directly confessing to everyone his divine nature.  Only true believers will figure out and understand.  Jesus says, "...the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.  And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”

How can a man who cures people offend anyone? Sadly, we know the Pharisees and scribes took offense of Jesus, mainly because he healed on the Sabbath.  Then again, jealousy and resentment most likely inflamed their hearts.

I find it interesting John sent his disciples to speak to Jesus.  Didn't John already know his cousin was the Son Of Man??  Hmmm...  If he was busy in the desert preaching, maybe he "heard" about the miracle man but didn't know who he was.  I figure news traveled slowly back in the day.  John the Baptist was a prophet of God but not a psychic who knew the exact height, weight, and built of the Messiah.

How can we offend God?  This is a weighty question.  We know from the Old Testament that God was an angry, revengeful God.  He had not problem punishing those who disobeyed his commands.  Everything from pestilence to starvation and death.  God expected obedience from his chosen people.  He appears to be a harsh strict God.  However, Jesus Christ is much different "side" of God.  He is gentle, kind and merciful.  He rarely raises his voice. He even preaches others to love their enemies.  No more "eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth!"

There is something refreshing to know that the Jesus loves the poorest of the poor and the lamest of the lame.  He doesn't run away from the sad and the afflicted; the sick and the dying; the outcasts and the sinner.   He welcomes all of these people into his healing and loving arms.

 Even in this day, the Holy Spirit continues the work of healing.  If we do "offend" God in some way, we have the option to confess our sins and receive repentance.  No more worry about an lightening bolt striking us down if we sin!

Let us all go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is the way, truth and light!  He shows us the way to salvation with his love and mercy.

Saint John the Cross, Pray for Us!

-J.

Rejoice and Be Glad

Third Sunday of Advent

Philippians 4:47

Brothers and sisters:

Rejoice in the Lord always.

I shall say it again: rejoice!

Your kindness should be known to all.

The Lord is near.

Have no anxiety at all, but in everything,

by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,

make your requests known to God.

Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Whenever I see a picture of Pope Francis my heart smiles!  The Pontiff's words comfort. During his Gaudete Sunday mass at the Basilica of John Lateran in Rome,  Pope Francis remarked, “we cannot let ourselves be taken in by fatigue; sadness in any form is not allowed, even though we have reason to be with the many concerns and the many forms of violence which hurt humanity."

Our hearts must be filled with joy, Pope Francis announced.  The birth of the baby Jesus is not a somber event but a joyful one.

I think so many people feel stressed out, lonely and/ or depressed because Christmas has turned into such a commercialized event.  The real reason for the season is overshadowed by Black Friday sales, fulfilling Christmas "wish" lists, and attending social parties.  It's about spending $$$ and entertaining.  I figure this time of the year more people to go to the mall on Sundays than attend church services.  I think Jesus and his Mother need some holy attention!!  Leave the credit cards at home and exchange them for holy cards!

 I feel much more at peace sitting in a church sanctuary away from all of the commercial chaos.  I feel even more comfort kneeling in front of the Blessed Sacrament in prayer.  I am extremely fortunate to be only a short 10 minute drive away from a perpetual adoration chapel.  I have been visiting Jesus in the Eucharist on a weekly basis.  Just pouring out my soul to him gives me a glimmer of hope.  Life will be okay.  It is not as dire as it appears to be.  The blessings given to me outweigh the troubles.  I need to rejoice in such blessings!

For the first time, I wore a beautiful cream colored lace mantilla to Sunday mass.  I felt a little awkward at first, but then as I focused on the liturgy I felt Christ closer to me than ever before!  The reverence and respect a head covering instills is hard to describe.  I am glad this tradition is making a comeback in post Vatican II Catholic churches.  I encourage other women to veil when they can.

Rejoice and Be Glad.  Christmas is almost here!  Jesus will arrive soon!

-J.

Down in the Doldrums

Thursday of the 2nd Week of Advent

I am the LORD, your God, who grasp your right hand; It is I who say to you, “Fear not,
I will help you.”   - Isaiah 41:13-20

A large pile of Autumn leaves blankets my apartment's garage driveway. The landscaping crew bagged up all of the leaves from the nearby units.  They forgot about my side of the building....

As I observe these dead leaves, so full of greenless color, I am reminded of my own dying self.  This has been an intense month with emotions sinking deeper and deeper into the ground.  Like a decaying leaf, I am blown off from the tree of life by the wind.  I desire to be a part of the sturdy wood again.  Yet, my anxiety and depression keeps me more focused on everything so wrong....

I feel more at ease staying at home away from the holiday parties and the mad shoppers.  I feel more comfortable sleeping in my bed so that I do not have to think about my life - the stagnation, the repeated letdowns, the loneliness.

When I lived in my home, I used a mulcher to manicure my leaf littered lawn.  Then I'd carefully add the crushed leaves back to my flower beds, providing nutrients to my shrubs.  Sadly, I cannot do that here in my rented community.   I can bag up the fallen leaves myself.  Obviously,the landscaping crew won't bother.  However, those large Bradford pear leaves still keep falling, falling, falling down....

People don't quite understand why I am down in the doldrums.  They somehow expect me to snap out of it.  It's the Holidays!  It's a season of time off from work, get togethers with friends and family, traveling and feasting.  Holiday cheer is in the air!

I wish I could feel that Holiday cheer and share excitement like everyone else!  All I see is my bank account slowly depleting from holiday gifts and last minute charitable donations.  I declined the invite to our annual office party with lame door prizes like a set of lawn chairs.  Ooh ahh.  Something I always wanted.  

Despite my mental state, I do manage to read the Hours and say my rosaries.  I've kept up with my meditations fairly well even though I find them much more challenging to write.  I continue to walk my dog and show up to work every day.  Yes, I feel grumpy, mopey, achy, irritable, and cranky.  I prefer annoying coworkers to leave me alone.  For the most part I work independently so I am able to hide when I don't feel like chatting.

As the old saying goes:  This too shall pass.  Our Lord and his Mother will continue to care and protect me as I go through the doldrums.  They understand and love me; I love them, too.  It may be harder to smile right now, but those pearly whites are not lost forever. Life will return just like the change in seasons.

-J.

Our Mother of Mercy

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

(Click Here for Readings)

A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.

In December 2015,  National Geographic Magazine published a fascinating article titled How the Virgin Mary Became the World's Most Powerful Woman. (Read full article here.)  The award-winning Catholic author Maureen Orth discusses several examples of Mary's influence around the globe.  

The  image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose feast day we celebrate today, is  one of the most popular Marian images in the world, highly cherished by the  Mexican culture.  Millions of terminally and chronically ill people travel to the cold waters of Lourdes, France for healing. Medjugorje, although still not officially approved by the Vatican as an apparition, draws thousands of pilgrims each year.  Clearly, Our Blessed Mother is a source of comfort for devout Christians throughout the world.  Interesting how even our Muslim brothers and sisters honor the Virgin.  It is said that Mary is mentioned more times in the Koran than in the Bible!  

Undeniable, Mary plays an important role as intercessor.  Ever since 40 A.D. Christians have reported apparitions of her; some appearances verified and others questionable.   

Why is Mary so popular..and powerful?  What is it about her that inspires songs, prayers, pilgrimages, processions, and even priceless works of art?

Author Maureen Orth offers the following insight:

As a universal symbol of maternal love, as well as of suffering and sacrifice, Mary is often the touchstone of our longing for meaning, a more accessible link to the supernatural than formal church teachings. Her mantle offers both security and protection. Pope Francis, when once asked what Mary meant to him, answered, “She is my mamá.” 

Not only does the Blessed Virgin Mary provide security and protection but also mercy.  In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, we should turn to our  "Mama"  for guidance.  How can we be more merciful toward our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ?  What does the word "mercy" really mean to us? Where have we failed in being merciful toward the weak, the poor, and the marginalized?  Do we accept the Lord's mercy or deny it as something of no value?

Today's meditation artwork, a non-traditional rendition of Our Lady of Guadalupe, colorfully illustrates the Blessed Virgin Mary in different roles.  Red represents the Virgin's mighty protection against the snares of the devil.  Green and yellow symbolize Mary's intercessory role between Christ and us.  Even the purple and blue is seen as Mary's maternal vocation - providing the love, care and mercy we desperately need in this challenging world.  Overall, the kaleidoscope of colors show the importance of the Virgin Mary in our faith journeys.

Our Lord will never deny his Mother what she wants for her children just as he will never deny us his infinite mercy.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pray for Us!

"Heavenly Father, in Our Lady of Guadalupe our eyes can behold your long-awaiting promise of salvation; may our eyes behold him for ever when the promises of Christ are filled "

 -Prayer from The Magnificat Advent Companion 2015 (pg .31)

-J.

A Year on Mercy Street

Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Beginning of the Jubilee Year of Mercy, 2015-2016

  

Jubilee of Mercy  While listening to my Amazon Prime play list, I came across a Live recording of the Peter Gabriel song "Mercy Street."  It made me think about the start of the of the Jubilee Year of Mercy.  Here are a few of the lyrics:

Dreaming of Mercy Street

Wear your inside out

Dreaming of mercy

In your daddy's arms again

Dreaming of Mercy Street

'Swear they moved that sign

Looking for mercy

In your daddy's arms

"Looking for mercy in your daddy's arms" - The greatest source of mercy is through God, the Father.  

We can dream and look for mercy in all the wrong places.  Help a friend in need but with an ulterior motive in mind. "Hopefully he will pay me back later when I need it! " Give money to the poor but secretly desire to be praised for it. "I'll help this charity and it will make me look like a Saint!"  Broadcast on social media all of the wonderful volunteer efforts we do in defense of the marginalized.  "Maybe my contributions will be recognized by the President and I'll become a social media sensation!"

Mercy is kind, tender and honest.  It is meek, humble and truthful.  It is not pompous or arrogant.  It should not be used as a weapon to fuel pride, haughtiness, and a conceited spirit.  Mercy is authentic love for another human being with a willingness to care for that person without contingencies attached.

Trash Trolls Today was an irritating day; one of those days when I wasn't in the mood to associate with anyone.  I just wanted to stew in my anger over a nice glass of vino.  (It's right here by my laptop as I type this meditation.)  I am making an honest attempt to be more patient and merciful, but I failed badly....  

This morning I woke up to discover that my apartment trash had not been taken out by the Valet Waste company.  A note was taped on the lid informing me that I needed to "tie a knot in all trash bags" before they will remove them.  For weeks now, I have noticed residents just throwing trash outside their apartments.  Very few use the waste receptacles.  So when I saw this note I raged inside. How dare these Trash Trolls not take my trash out!  Ridiculous!  I've been putting out my trash like this - neat and orderly - for two months and they just NOW tell me to stop?  They can kiss my you know what! Grr...

I wrote a scathing note that I prepared to lay on top of my soggy garbage for the Trash Trolls to read.  However, I axed the foolish move.  I certainly didn't want to start a trash war and possibly incur fines!  I am sure trash picker-upper work is not the most pleasant in the world, and I am not the only resident who didn't do exactly what protocol spells out.  I know the rules now, so hopefully the incident will never happen again.

Interesting, when I opened up my mail this afternoon I received a donation solicitation from CRS.  I normally never respond to such mailings, but what fell out of the envelope took me by surprise.  It was a prayer card with a picture of Pope Francis holding a white peace dove with the following quote:

"We all have to think if we can become a little poorer, all of us have to do this.  How can I become a little poorer in order to be more like Jesus, who was the poor Teacher?"

Also, included in the envelope, was a second prayer card with an angel coin attached to it.  The prayer read, "Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide.  Amen"

Wow, the Holy Spirit just sent me two powerful messages!  Why stew over silly trash?  Why remain angry at a mistake I made?  Why not just accept that I got called out on doing something wrong? Correct the mistake and let it go!  Life is too short to worry about rotting garbage!

Walking Along Mercy Street   During this Jubilee Year of Mercy, I like the image of walking along Mercy Street thinking about how I can be a better Christian witness to others.  How can I be more merciful without being prideful and vain?  How can I open my heart to those who experience difficulties and minister to them?  What can I learn about mercy in my own faith experiences?

I'd like to end with this great quote from Magnificat's Year of Mercy Companion:  

"God knows us as he intends us to be; his sons, his daughters, his friends.  He knows that he has fitted us for himself and that no other destiny for us will do.  When he knows us as sinners and as unable to secure our own deliverance from our sins, he knows us as needing his mercy.  But this mercy is, in a way, called for, not by reason of our own merits, but because of his own fatherly affection for us and because he sees the change in us that his father's love will produce.  His mercy reflects God's true judgment on us as being not his "undeserving poor" but his own beloved children."   -Father John Dominic Corbett, O.P.

Saint Dominic de Guzman, Pray for Us!

-J.

Our Mother of the Living

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

The Holy Spirit comes upon... a beautiful, humble young woman named Mary.  She is schooled in the Law of Moses and understands her duties as a faithful Jew in a patriarchal society.  She embodies childlike innocence and spirit; yet, the time has come to take on adult responsibilities. She is betrothed to Joseph, a much older man with admirable carpenter skills.  He may be poor, but he is still a good, honorable man. 

Mary cannot believe the news from the Angel Gabriel: She is with child!  It's not Joseph's baby but the Lord's.  What?! How can this be since she is still a virgin?  Why was she chosen as the mother of the Son of God? 

Mary was part of the Divine Plan from inception.  The New Ark of the Covenant; the New Eve; the Holy Mother of God whose "Yes" began a destiny for all of humanity.  Not a revolution designed for idolatry, despair, and hate but an evolution based on faith, hope, and love. 

Nothing is impossible...with Our Blessed Mother interceding and protecting us from harm.  Born without sin from the moment of her conception, Mary is the perfect example of maternal holiness. She nursed the child Jesus as an infant and experienced the "terrible 2's" like any other mother!  She  handled the rebellious Jesus when he ran away to the temple and witnessed her son's first miracle at a Cana wedding.  She mourned and wept when Jesus died nailed to the cross; a gut wrenching pain too terrible to describe.  Only a mother who has lost a child can understand.  Despite all of the joy, happiness, worry, and sadness Mary still persevered, strengthened by faith in the Lord.  Nothing seems impossible when we know Christ is with us, in us, and through us. 

 Mother of the Living... Adam and Eve disobeyed God when they ate forbidden fruit. As a result, evil entered the world.  Pain, sickness, famine, war, and death became commonplace. Comforting to know Mary's "yes" reversed the course of history....  

Satan won't get his way with Our Blessed Mother in the way!  Evil won't succeed in the world with Jesus Christ, our saving Lord! 

Mary, humble and pure, chose to give birth to the Son of God without expecting anything in return.  She trusted the Lord to take care of her.  She trusted in Joseph to love her.  Her ultimate "yes" brought about new meaning to the word living -   Living a full life fully obedient to God.  Taking the good with the bad, always striving for holiness.   

Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for Us! 

 "Sinless Virgin, let us follow joyfully in your footsteps; draw us after you in the fragrance of your holiness."  - Divine Office Morning Antiphon, Feast of the Immaculate Conception 

The Lord's Radiant Beauty

"You will see his glory within you; the Lord will dawn on you in radiant beauty." 

 Liturgy of the Hours (First Week of Advent, Saturday Morning Prayer, Responsory)

Every time I visit the Dallas Arboretum for a stroll around the water features or a breathtaking view of White Rock Lake, I am reminded of the radiant beauty of God.  I see how Our Lord paints the landscape with brilliant colors, textures, and smells....

 How many of us make an effort to stop our busy lives, observing the beauty and tranquility of nature?  

Not too far from my apartment sits the city landfield.  The putrid smell of garbage wafts in and out, especially in the mornings.  Wall air freshener plug-ins help mask the odor.  Still... the foul odors constantly remind me of the stinky sin I carry around daily....

How many of us try to cover up our bad behavior, stewing in our own stench instead of asking God for forgiveness?

Blooming gardens signify life with all of its mystery and magnificence.  Contrast this with decaying landfields which represent death. The cycles of birth and death repeat themselves over and over again.  Yet, we may be focused on only one aspect of the cycle.  Living life in positive admiration makes us joyful and content. We see good in everything and enjoy those surprises that God hands out.  However, some of us natural lean toward the darker side of life, focusing on death and decay.  We fail to see joy and constantly feel less content.  The last thing we need is more bad news!

How can we approach the good and the bad in a more balanced way?  We do not want to lean  naively positive or habitually negative. The best thing to do is recognize God's presence within our souls.  He glorifies and sanctifies us.  He knows us more intimately than anyone.  

Are we mindful of the Lord?  

Gardens bloom and landfields decay.  The cycle of life and death continues on with the Lord at the dawn of  all of humanity.

-J.

Our Heavenly Inheritance

Memorial Saint Francis Xavier, Priest

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Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Jesus said to his disciples:“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven."

My mother loves to decorate her apartment with unique items.  Everything from a large stone rosary in the living room to an authentic Mola in the dining room.  A small 1920's painting hangs in the bathroom and a voodoo Pillsbury Dough Boy in the kitchen.  My sister and I joke about who will inherit what. Maybe I will end up with the green Depression glasses, if my sister doesn't snatch them up first.  As my mom reminds us:  After I die, you can fight over my stuff!  

I prefer avoiding a family feud.  Instead, I rather cherish as many years with my mother as possible, appreciating her prized possessions together as mother and daughter. She has a great story behind each treasure.  Some her decorative objects originate from her travels to foreign countries.

I look forward to a heavenly inheritance more than a family inheritance.  All of the material possessions I collect in my life will not fit in a casket or an urn.  I cannot take a car, book collection, cell phone, or even my dog into the afterlife.  So, why worry about what I inherit in the future?  Why not just be happy with the present?

This brings about the ultimate question:  How can we inherit the Kingdom of God?  Well, we can follow the Ten Commandments, practice The Beatitudes, and spread the good news of Christ to others.  Love our enemies and follow the Golden Rule.  Practice humility and honesty.  Pray for others.  Relish in our faith and trust in God.  Does this sound easy?  Not at all. 

Our own pride, vanity and sensuality often confuses us.  Doing the right thing is boring.  Being nice to everyone doesnt insight a whole lot of drama!  What would happen if the first story on the evening news featured a person saving a life instead of murdering one?  People would stare at their television screens in shock.  Wow, a life actually saved!  Something positive happening in the world today!

Just think with our heavenly inheritance we will finally encounter peace.  No more bad news to keep us in a perpetual state of fear and anxiety.  No more worry about scraping enough money for food, clothing and shelter.  No more sickness, pain, and depression.  We will stand next to Jesus, Our Blessed Mother, and the Saints in celebration.  We made it!  We are now in heaven for all of eternity!

Lord, Lord!  We love you and praise you.  Please forgive us of our sins and protect us from evil.  We want to join you in heaven someday.  Give us the guidance and strength to follow your Will, especially during times of pain and suffering.  In the Father's name, Amen.


"In thee, Oh Lord, I put my hope.  Let me never be confounded."  - Saint Francis Xavier

Oh, Foolish Soul

As part of my Advent observance, I am reading The Confessions of St. Augustine.  This is the third attempt to read the classic in its entirety.  I find it a challenging read, especially because of the old writing style and incredible depth of wisdom. 

Last night I came across Book 4, Chapter XI, 16.  Wow, these beautiful words spoke to my own heart:

"Be not foolish, O my soul, and do not let the tumult of your vanity deafen the ear of your heart.  Be attentive.  The Word itself calls you to return, and with him is a place of unpeturbed rest, where love is not forsaken unless it first forsakes.  Behold, these things pass away that others may come to be in their place.  Thus even this lowest level of unity may be made complete in all its parts.  'But do I ever pass away?" asks the Word of God.  Fix the habitation in him.  Oh my soul, commit whatsoever you have to him.  Commit to truth whatever you have received from the truth and you will lose nothing.  What is decayed will flourish again; your diseases will be healed; your perishable parts shall be reshaped and renovated, and made whole again in you.  And these perishable things will not carry you with them down to where they go when they perish, but shall stand and abide, and you with them, before God, who abides and continues forever."

Overall, 2015 has been an excellent year!  I sold my home, bought a new car, and stashed away a fully stocked emergency fund.  I have downsided to more affordable living with only a 9 minute commute to work.  I am thankful for these blessings. 

However, I feel like my own soul is on a ventilator right now, clinging to spiritual life.  Despite everything God blessed me with I still long for more.  My soul still weeps and moans as it grasps for air.  She is lonely, sad, and frustrated.  She feels misunderstood and oftentimes unwanted in such a competitive world.

My soul longs for attention and love.  She craves just one other soul to tell her she is beautiful and cherished.  Yet, other souls appear too wrapped up in their own vanity to care.  The thing is My soul prays for their souls.  Do they honestly pray for mine? 

I hear the words "I will pray for you" so often. But, I much rather experience a physical connection.  Jennifer, why don't we have breakfast or lunch together.  Why don't we go see a movie together.  Yes, I pray for you but that is not all I am here for.  Prayers do a lot of good but total physical presence, taking the time out of our busy schedules to relate, is even better.

Good ol' Saint Augustine - talk about a long conversion process.  It took him a full life time for him to experience the Truth.  His own soul experienced doubts and insecurities, vanity and more vanity.  Yet, he eventually got it.  His foolish soul became one of the greatest most influential souls in Church History.  Thanks be to God.

-J.

Childlike Wonder

Tuesday of the First Week of Advent


(Click Here for Readings)

Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.”

My 18 month old niece is an adorable, intense little girl.  She doesn't speak much yet, just a few "Uh-Os!" and "Choo-choos!" as she flashes her big smile.  She likes to call everyone "Daddy!" while moving non-stop.  She is an endless bundle of energy...

Oh, how much we take for granted youthfulness and carefree innocence!

The family dogs watch my niece, following her every move especially if it means snatching Goldfish crackers off the floor. This precious child of God is so filled with wonder and curiosity. The world around her is one huge playground where she can hop, jump, skip and dance. This beautiful child is happy around people; she immediately trusts others; nothing scares her or slows her down.

I sometimes miss my own childhood.  Everything was simple back then.  My mom looked after me and provided for my needs.  I didn't have to worry about a job, paying bills, or aging.  But, then again life seemed to move at a snail's pace.  I finally reached the age of womanhood.  Then I was old enough to get a driver's license.  Eventually I cast my first vote and bought a lottery ticket. How excited I was when I could legally buy wine coolers!

After the age of 21, I often wonder why life goes by at the speed of lightning!  Where did all of the cherished time go??  Now that I am in my 40's I wish I could go back and be an innocent kid all over again.  What would I do differently?  What hidden realities would I discover? 

Maybe I would have taken dance lessons or played on the soccer field.  Maybe I'd be a social butterfly active and amazed by experiences.  Maybe I'd pray more and learn to love and value life in all of its youthful charm.

Of course, we all experience regrets and wish we could reverse time. Rephrase the hateful words.  Treat others with more respect.  Cherish that inner heart of a child who unconditional loves and accepts everyone!  However, we cannot live in the past longing for a different outcome.  All we can do is live in the present, recognizing the beautiful blessings in our lives every single day. 

Amazing what new discoveries we can make through the eyes of our own children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  I learn something from my precious little niece every time I see a new video posted on the Lifecake .  It's just so fun to see her imagination run wild as she enjoys a wonder only a child knows....  

“But when fundamentals are doubted, as at present, we must try to recover the candour and wonder of the child; the unspoilt realism and objectivity of innocence. Or if we cannot do that, we must try at least to shake off the cloud of mere custom and see the thing as new, if only by seeing it as unnatural....."  - G.K. Chesterton, "The Everlasting Man"

 -J.

Speak from the Heart

Monday of the First Week of Advent

Romans 10:9-18

Brothers and sisters:  If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved.

Yesterday, I stopped by Target to buy groceries.  As I pushed the shopping cart down the diary aisle, I recognized a woman I went to high school with.  I took a double take:  Is it really Erin?  I thought she lived out of state?  Wow, the last time I saw her was at our 20 year high school reunion....

Erin stood right next to me as she checked out the dairy foods; however, I couldn't get the courage to say a word to her.  What kept me silent?  What was I afraid of?  It's not like I despised the woman.  I thought she was pretty cool back in high school.  She was absolutely brilliant - a National Merit Scholar and later became a successful IT professional.  We played in the orchestra together ever since middle school.  She never minded lugging around her heavy and bulky string bass to and from practice.

Come to think about it now....I looked absolutely dreadful with no make-up on and ratty looking hair.  I allowed vanity  to stop me from calling out "Hi Erin!" with a pleasant smile on my face.  I was too worried  if she'd remember me or if I could carry on a conversation for five minutes.  I quickly pushed my cart into another aisle to avoid the interaction.  

Words are sometimes difficult for us to say.  Maybe we feel awkward around the person or just do not understand where they are coming from.  On the other hand, maybe it's a case where we have nothing in common and silence is the golden option.

The tragedy happens when we speak out of anger and not out of love.   We get upset with our spouse and curse them out.  We get impatient with our children and yell at them.  We throw our middle fingers up at God saying, "How could you do this to me?  What kind of God are you?  My life is in the gutter!  Things are just so awful!  I just can't take it anymore!  You disappoint me, God!  I just don't know if I trust you anymore."

Calm down, think, meditate.....Remember that God isn't the enemy.  He is the caretaker. He does not want us to blaspheme him or say cruel words to others.  He wants us to speak from the heart.  That is, speak with respect and love.  Speak with honor and compassion.  Sometimes if we do not have something nice to say it's best to zip our mouths shut!  Trust me, I've blabbered mouth enough to get myself in trouble over the years.  

During the Season of Advent, let us see where we may be weak in our interactions with others.  Are we quick to speak before thinking?  Are we quick to criticize instead of compliment?  Do we have a solid relationship with the Lord?  Have we gone to confession lately?

Speak from the heart but with love and kindness.  Be honest and truthful.  Do not be scared of what others may think.  Now that I look back, I should have said a friendly "Hello, great to see you!" to my long-ago friend.  Well, maybe I'll have the chance next time.

-J.

Lights Camera... Advent!

First Sunday of Advent

(Click Here for Readings)

1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2

Brothers and sisters: May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, so as to strengthen your hearts,  to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father  at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen.

Happy 1st Day of Advent and Happy Liturgical New Year!  In 2015-2016, the Sunday readings will be taken from Cycle C, the Gospel of Luke. Today as we light the first candle on the Advent wreath we meditate on the theme of Hope.

We can all use quite a bit of hope during this extremely busy time of the year.  We hope to find great deals on gifts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.  We hope to "get-along" with annoying friends and relatives we see over the holidays.  (Without going completely insane...)We may even hope for that bonus or job promotion to help pay for our shopping sprees.

Hope is much more than material possessions or getting what we desire.  Hope is that longing in our hearts for something special; something that will heal our brokenness and give us the strength to keeping moving forward.  Hope sustains and illuminates.  The one lonely flickering light on the Advent wreath signals more to come!  Jesus hasn't arrived yet, but he will be with us shortly.  Also, the end times haven't arrived yet either.  Hope remains that we can change our sinful ways way before the Last Judgment.

During the Advent Season, I have made a personal goal to post a daily meditation.  I've been a little lax in my writing over the past several weeks.   Doing something that I love to do, like writing, is the best way for me to prepare for the coming of the Lord.  

Please stay tuned and invite others to read my meditations.

Lights, camera....Advent!  It's time to prepare for the coming of our Lord.

-J.

Trapped By Surprise

Saturday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

By JENNIFER BURGIN

(Click Here for Readings)

Jesus said to his disciples:“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.  For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth."

As we approach Advent, the scripture readings take a darker turn.  We read from the Prophet of Daniel about terrifying visions of beasts.  Jesus warns his disciples about the heaven and earth passing away as the Kingdom of God draws near.  

Today, some people believe the "end of the world" is happening sooner than later. Terrorist attacks, catastrophic weather events, cyber security threats, and unending wars -- such realities keep us in a state of fear.   However, we should remember that evil has always been present.  Human beings remain cold and calculating; selfish and sadistic; blunt and brutal just like they did 2000 years ago.  The only difference is bad news travels instantly, thanks to the Internet and technology.  What used to be a localized scandal is now a global one.

By now most people know that the famous actor Charlie Sheen is HIV positive. He contracted the virus 4 years ago but paid millions of dollars to keep it a secret. He continued to engage in unprotected sex with various women. Trapped by his life-threatening disease, knowing full well his surprise could ostracize him in the entertainment industry, he paid for silence.  Now that his medical condition is out in the open he must live with the stigma.

Like Charlie Sheen, many people engage in risky behaviors and make incredibly poor choices. The "anything goes" mentality give them the false sense of security.  They'd never dream of contracting a deadly disease or losing their fortunes.  Moreover, they'd never imagine the effect their addictions would have on friends and family. Trapped by surprise these individuals are unable to deal with the fallout.

Do you ever feel trapped?  Do you ever pray to God, asking him for a way out of the crazy maze?  Do you feel like he doesn't listen?  God listens!  He drafts away your life's course with a delicate touch of an ink quell pen.  But, wait! The scene hasn't arrived yet!  Like a movie film the video needs editing.  God notices you chose a wide, rickety path  filled with boobie traps!  He cannot always rescue you at a moment's notice.  Perhaps you need to learn a lesson.  Perhaps he has already provided you tools for the way out of the mouse trap.  Perhaps he wants you to use your intellect to make positive changes.

I find surprises interesting.  They keep life fresh and invigorating.  Yes, sometimes surprises aren't so great like when a person is diagnose with cancer or gets involved in a car accident.  Other surprises, like the announcement of a pregnancy or a new job offer, are dreams come true.  Surprises make life worth living; God hands out baskets full of them, day and night. 

As Jesus warns his disciples, we should remain vigilant and prepared when he does return at the end of time to judge.  Personally, I do not see the end happening anytime in our lifetimes, so we can take that off our our worry lists!  Too much work remains in evangelizing the good news. Too many souls close to conversation.  Too many good people alive who continue to carry out godly work despite unending evil.

Do not feel trapped by surprise.  Life happens and its not always so neat and orderly.  All we can do is accept what the Lord gives us.  We all experience small "end of the world" dramas when we lose a friend, spouse, parent or even a child.  We must remain strong, turning to Our Lord and his Blessed Mother in humble and contrite prayer.  

Advent begins tomorrow!  Let us prepare for the coming of the baby Jesus by letting go of the areas in our lives which leave us trapped and vulnerable.  

The rains continue to fall as the temperatures reach the seasonal chill.  No, the apocalypse is not now!  Just another day, another hour, another minute, another second....Hearts continue to beat as the world keeps turning.

-J.