Crossing Over to the Other Side

Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest

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Bridge over Hoover Dam - Nevada January 2015

On that day, as evening drew on, Jesus said to his disciples: “Let us cross to the other side.” Leaving the crowd, they took Jesus with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him.

Are you stuck in a rut? Do you find yourself on the middle of a bridge, unable to walk to the other side?  You see the water hundreds of feet below crashing violently while the bridge sways back and forth.  You can turn back and return the direction you came; that end of the life bridge is old familiar territory.  It's rocky and uneven, filled with dissatisfaction and misery; yet you've grown used to the numbing effects.  Perhaps you're in a dead end job without growth potential.  You need the steady paycheck to keep food on the table.  Maybe you're addicted to alcohol and/or drugs.  You depend on them just to survive the day.  Perhaps you've strayed from the Church.  You feel a nudge to return to Mass, but guilt keeps you away.

You see the possibility of significant change to your life on the other side of the rickety bridge.  Fear and anxiety is so overwhelming that you just don't think you can move forward.  You realize a new job can be found; it takes perseverance and determination to make it happen.  A local AA group awaits on the other side of the bridge willing to help in addiction recovery.  Most comforting of all is that Jesus looks forward to your arrival on the other side. He outstretches his arms in a warm embrace, accepting you even with imperfections.  No need to feel guilty for turning away from his loving mercy because he forgives you no matter what you may or may not have done....

Jesus heals and saves.  All we have to do is trust in him always.  When fear overwhelms us, we should pray.  When grief rubs us raw, we should pray.  When a lack of hope keeps us from moving forward, we should pray even more vigilantly.  God provides us with a way out of unfortunate circumstances, but we must pay attention to the clues and access the resources.  

Nobody wants to be stuck on a bridge forever. Certainly, nobody wishes to live their entire life in a perpetual rut, addicted to inaction.  This can be even more devastating than actually taking a chance to turn our lives around.  Even if we take a leap of faith, and things don't work out exactly as we hoped, there are always other avenues to explore and other bridges to cross. 

Today is the feast day of Saint John Bosco, Italian priest and probably one of the most significant contributors to Catholic youth ministry.  Despite anti-clericalism and anti-church sentiment in Italy, he remained steadfast in his call to work with  youth.   Through unconventional oratories and games, he engaged in youth in ways that brought them closer to Christ.  It was as if each one of the boys he ministered to stood on their own life bridge.  Fortunately, they decided to head in the right direction into the loving arms of Christ and away from lives of crime and disorder.

When life gets you down, and you feel like your stuck, turn to Christ with a humble and contrite heart.  Pray for the courage to make it across that rickety life bridge.  Don't be afraid!

(As always, I love to end posts with an inspiring quote.  Here it goes!)

"Don Bosco once asked a cleric, 'What do you think is the easiest way to become saints?' He himself answered, saying, 'To recognize the Will of God in our Superiors and to submit entirely to it.'" 

Saint John Bosco, Pray for Us!!

-J.

Belief + Desire + Action

Memorial of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest and Doctor of the Church


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  “Hear this! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Other seed 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 and it produced no grain. And some seed fell on rich soil and produced fruit. It came up and grew and yielded thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.”

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Dominican priest and Doctor of the Church who is probably one of the most influential theologians in Catholic Church history. Many people are intimidated by Aquinas.  He can be a challenge to understand, but  a basic introduction to his writings provide incredible wisdom and insight still applicable in modern day.   

I came across this brilliant quote by Thomas Aquinas which I like to reflect on in light of today's familiar gospel reading from Mark 4:1-20  (Parable of the Seed Sower).

Three things are necessary for the salvation of man: to know what he ought to believe; to know what he ought to desire; and to know what he ought to do.

Believe     Can we honestly say we believe in God and his hand in creating the universe?  If God suddenly threw seeds of faith in our paths, would we pick them up and plant them in fertile soil?  Or, would we decide to toss our faith seeds onto a rocky pavement or in a weedy thorn bush, throwing them away as if a pile of garbage? 

We tend to have faith in things we see and in people or situations that feed our pride.  We are less likely to have "faith" in things annoying, stressful, or too abstract for our sensibilities.  When we do muster up faith in the unseen, naturally belief takes over.  

When we have faith and belief in God we will not toss aside the tiny seeds of faith.  We decide to preserve the seeds for generations to come.  Plant a seed in rich soil and watch it grow.  As it grows, we prune and manicure it, harvesting more seeds and cuttings so we can continue the plant's heritage.  Suddenly, our garden of faith blossoms into attractive colors and aromas of all shapes and sizes.  

For our salvation, we believe in mercy of God; we believe God as the master creator; and we believe that Christ died for our eternal life.

Desire   Do we desire to imitate God in thought, word and deed?  Do we desire to grow in our spiritual faith?  Or do we allow the Devil to gather faith seeds for us, sowing his own wicked weeds instead?  

Naturally we desire the sensual, the beautiful and the pleasurable.  We wear fine clothes, drink fine wines, travel to fine destinations, and bed with fine looking people.  There's nothing wrong with desiring attractive things; however, what we should desire #1 is Jesus Christ!  He is the finest man of all, and he provides us with spiritual pleasures beyond our physical senses.

For our salvation, we desire a greater intimacy with God; and we desire to learn more about our Catholic faith so that we can grow spiritually. 

Action  Do we engage in ways to promote our faith and belief?  Do we desire to fall in love with the Lord? Or do we take the seeds of faith and allow them to dry up from lack of shade and too much sunshine?

Our actions speak louder than words.  If we say we believe in God, but don't practice our faith, we are hypocrites.  If we say we desire to evangelize good news, but remain inattentive to the needs of others, we fail to live up to Christ's teaching.  In other words, if we truly believe and desire to follow the Christian life, we must do work.  Faith without works is dead. (James 2:26)  Faithful action may mean volunteering, tithing, or simply praying for others.

For our salvation, we act in ways that are pleasing to the Lord; we act in ways that are charitable and loving; and we perform actions that benefit the glory of God's Kingdom.

God provides us with so many choices in life.  He does this because he loves us!  Let us choose to sow the seeds of faith in rich soil.  Believe, Desire and Act!

Saint Thomas Aquinas, Pray for Us!!

 -J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Something Old Something New

Last week, after returning from vacation, I realized I lost my Miraculous Medal at the airport.  The chain came home with me but the pendant itself ...gone!  I owned the medal since 1998, after I first became Catholic, so I was deeply sad to see it lost.  A couple of friends mentioned that maybe the medal went missing for a divine reason:  Our Lord wanted it to go to someone else; perhaps a person struggling with a heavy burden desperately needed Immaculate Mary's intercession.

I've lost quite a number of religious items lately including my December issue of Magnificat with a tan leatherette cover.  It contained a few treasured prayers cards, including one I received the day after my confirmation.  Once again, something old and highly prized lost forever.  

I prayed to Saint Anthony for help finding my favorite Catholic sacramentals.  I imagine his reply: "My Dear Daughter, I'm sorry but these items cannot be found.  I trust God will position new and better objects in your path for your daily use."

I ordered a brand new Magnificat cover which looks much nicer than the old one.  As for the prayer cards, well, I plan to print off new ones from my home printer.  This past weekend I purchased a new Miraculous Medal from my local Catholic bookstore.  The clasp is much more secure, so hopefully it will stay close to my heart for years to come.   I discovered quite an array of Catholic books as I browsed the store; a number of them I plan to add to my reading list.

Something old, something new (along with something borrowed, something blue) is a tradition of a bride to be.  She adorns her wedding dress with an old heirloom, a new piece, a borrowed object, and something in the color blue.  I'm not sure where this tradition comes from, but I always see brides honoring the custom.  I remember at my best friend's wedding in Chicago many years ago she carried a beautiful blue rosary around her bouquet of flowers.  I just love the idea!

I think it's common to hold on to the old with a reluctance to venture into new territory.  We feel more comfortable and familiar with the old.  We may fear what the new will offer us.  Will be still be safe and secure?  Will we still be in control? What will the new give us that the old already does?

For instance, we keep our old junker car around because it's reliable and paid for.  A new car means higher insurance and a monthly payment!  We keep the old cell phone around, even if it's a dinosaur compared to the latest tech, because we know how to work it.  No need to learn a new device!  

When it comes to our spiritual lives, we tend to hold on to our old sinful habits, hesitant to convert into new holy habits. We go through life in an old endless cycle  of hopelessness and despair, or indifferent and apathy.  The "new" is seen as an impossible undertaking.

Many times when we take the leap of faith and try something new we find that we love it.  It's more satisfying that the old.  It's more spiritually fulfilling.  It allows us to grow closer to Christ.  Perhaps we've separated ourselves from God for way too long.  He's reached out to us, but it's just now that we grab on to his hand and walk along by His side!

Saint Anthony, Pray for Us!

-J.

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor of the Church



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Jesus came with his disciples into the house. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat. When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.”


 I'm sure at one time or another someone labeled  you as "crazy" for something you did, said, or believed in.  Oftentimes we embarrass our friends and family without even being conscientiously aware of it.  We go about doing our own thing not truly aware how our words and actions affect others.

My mother reminds me of my own childhood craziness.  I threw terrible temper tantrums as a little girl, especially in the grocery store.  When I didn't get candy I wanted, I screamed my little blonde head off.  I dropped to the floor and threw a hissy fit with arms, legs, and pigtails flailing about.  My mom "scolded" by walking away in silence. With my mom out of sight, I didn't feel the need to cry anymore.  I immediately lost focus on that candy bar:  Poof, out of mind!

Jesus Christ's own relatives thought he was "out of his mind"  for preaching to large crowds and hanging out with lowly sinners.  Hard to believe but true! Christ could have easily shooed away the crowds, eating with his disciples in peace; but, he decided against it.  His ministry took precedence over any personal comforts.

At first glance, it  appears like the relatives set out to seize Jesus for their own selfish reasons; however, most likely they wanted to protect Our Lord.  They were concerned about his safety and well-being.  Maybe if he was taken out of sight then the crowds will go away, and the chief Scribes and Pharisees will keep Jesus out of mind.  If Christ pushed his luck with so-called blasphemy, certain death loomed.

Thomas a Kempis wrote:  "Out of sight, out of mind.  The absent are always in the wrong."  When we fail to pay attention to our environment, and the people around us, we make false assumptions.  We label someone as a "little off the rocker" when we haven't taken the time to get to know the person.  We may even go so far as dump a whole group of people into "the loony bin" because their ideas and beliefs are so different from our own. We tend to block out what we don't want to see or hear.

If we wish to be better Christians, we must remain in sight and mind.  Be on the lookout for ways to help others instead of condemn.  Don't discount those who may have strange ideas and perceptions.  We may learn something new which will enhance our spiritual lives.

Pay attention!  Keep eyes open and minds sharp as disciples of Christ!

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Francis de Sales who is one of my favorite Doctors of the Church.  Here are a few quotes to reflect on this coming week:

"The bee collects honey from the flowers in such a ways as to do the least damage or destruction to them, and he leaves them whole, undamaged and fresh, just as he found them...."

"Always be as gentle as you can, and remember that more flies are caught with a spoonful of honey than with a hundred barrels of vinegar."

"We are not drawn to God by iron chains, but by sweet attractions and holy inspirations."

St. Francis de Sales, Pray for Us!

-J.

Sons and Daughters of Thunder

Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Mark 3:13-19

He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom he named Peter; James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, whom he named Boanerges,that is, sons of thunder; Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew,Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus;Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.

Readers who follow my blog regularly know I'm very personal in my meditations.  I don't hide much of anything.  I share what I think with a little censorship here and there, but for the most part I'm very honest. Some people may like my thoughts, and keep reading, while others hate my writing style.  It's just who I am as a unique person.  What's great about blogging is I can express myself in any way I choose. Again, if people don't find me appealing they can move on. I'm confident that even if two or three individuals can relate to my thoughts I'm doing a pretty good job.  God has an amazing way of blessing others through a writer's words.  I want others to love Christ as much as I do.

Does anyone hear the thunder?  Does anyone see the lightening? Does anyone read what I write or is this blog just floating into the black abyss of cyber space?

Every day I pray to God that I can find a better career or not have to work anymore!  My boring job is frying my brain, leaving me depressed, irritable, and feeling worthless! Most mornings I wake up with heart palpitations followed by burn, loathing the long work commute. Please don't get me wrong.  I'm very blessed to be employed. I can pay me bills on time even if I live paycheck by paycheck.  I'm just in a dead-in position.  I look back at my college years and wish I had majored in Computer Science, Engineering or some kind of medical field.  All the promising jobs seem to be in the areas of healthcare and information technology these days.  I'm at an age when going back to school isn't a very wise move.  (I'm already in debt. Why tack on student loans?)  

I find myself envying those younger than me.  I know employers prefer the younger candidates because they lack experience and will work cheap. As a mid-level professional, I will need to enter management level to boost my salary.  How do I reach that without applicable on-the-job experience?  I certainly have the intellect to succeed, yet very few want to take a gamble with me.  So I'm left to do the best with my current situation.  

 It's almost like lightening has struck my pride and thunder has scared my intellect into inaction.  I'm lifeless.  I'm lazy. I don't know what to do with my life.  I envy the youth and their promising futures.  Oh, how I wish I could travel back 20+ years and start my life all over again.  I would have chosen a better career path for my future!  There's nothing worse than knowing deep down that your peak has ended.  Somebody younger or somebody with more "experience" will be preferred in the job market.  Maybe I should go ahead and reserve my burial plot in my parish's columbarium.  Life is just !@#$.  I want to be a success and not a failure.  I want to feel good about myself.  I want others to see my potential.  Doesn't anyone notice me or think I'm worthy of love and appreciation?

Thunder in the sky booms and crackles.  It produces unexpected jolts through out bodies. It's as if an earthquake rumbles through our flesh.  When a thunderstorm hits, the claps of thunder cause us to shake and tremble.  We hide under our bed covers scared of the impending storm. Will our house flood out?  Will lightening hit our roof?  Will we be safe?

As sons and daughters of God, thunder impacts us all.  Thunder can be seen in the form of our burdens and struggles.  We think we can no longer manage the pain and the anxiety.  Yet, the thunder softens as life's storm passes.  We will see peace and calm on the horizon.  We will feel safe again through the power of God.

-J.

March for Life 2015

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

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Jesus withdrew toward the sea with his disciples. A large number of people followed from Galilee and from Judea. Hearing what he was doing, a large number of people came to him also from Jerusalem, from Idumea, from beyond the Jordan, and from the neighborhood of Tyre and Sidon.

March for the Babies   Today, the annual March for Life takes place in Washington D.C. Since the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision 42 years ago, over 57 million babies have died from abortion.  This is a colossal tragedy, especially when I think about the brilliant scientists, inventors, and artists alive today if only their mothers chose life!  What if the late Steve Jobs was aborted instead of given up for adoption?  No Apple Corp - no Mac, no iPad, no iPhone.....our electronic gizmos would be quite different, if invented at all.

 I applaud the brave pro-lifers, who despite the wintry elements, proudly rally and march on behalf of unborn children.  What I find so amazing about this event are the sheer numbers of youth participating.  They grow exponentially each year.  What a change from my parents' generation who planted the weeds for abortion-on-demand.  Sadly, my mom is still very pro-choice to this day.  In fact, she makes critical remarks about the March for Life each year.  I just ignore her comments. Certain subjects my mom and I do not discuss; abortion is one of them.

Before I became Catholic, and learned about the horrors behind Planned Parenthood, I was pro-choice just like mom.  I always said to myself that as a single person if I ever became pregnant I'd opt for an abortion.  I'd go so far as travel out of state for one.  The last thing I wanted was to confront a sidewalk counselor begging me to save my baby. Thank the Lord my attitude towards Life changed.  I know now I could never kill my unborn child. Life is too sacred and precious.  Only God has the right to take away a life, and it's according to His master plan.

As I age, I've learned to enjoy children more.  In the past, I'd never be caught holding a kid.  I'd quickly shy away from the whole baby coo and poo thing.  All this changed after a recent trip to Nevada to visit my sister and her husband.  I taught my 10 month old niece how to clap her hands for the first time!  I couldn't believe the smile on her face.  (My sister raves how much the baby loves her Auntie Jennifer!!)  I wish I could hold that bundle of joy in my arms right now.  Having family living long distance is a challenge, especially since children grow so quickly and the "firsts" are often missed. My sister set up an account through the website Lifecake, so I follow my niece's development each week.

A Sea of Crowds  A parallel can be drawn between the vast crowds following Jesus and the thousands of pro-lifers marching onto the steps of The Capitol and Supreme Court buildings.  Both crowds, biblical and modern-day, walk with an enthusiastic mission.   They desire healing and forgiveness; change and conversion. They rely on faith, trusting God will provide physical and emotional healing.  Furthermore, they remain hopeful that their lives, and the lives of their children, will remain protected from dark and evil practices.

Let us spend a few moments in prayer for a greater respect for human life and even more converts to the pro-life movement!

"How can there be too many children?  That is like saying there are too many flowers."
-Mother Teresa

-J.

Withered or Weak

Memorial of Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr
Wednesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Mark 3:1-6

Then he said to the Pharisees,“Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored.

I imagine Jesus utterly frustrated with and annoyed by the Pharisees.  They keep following him everywhere he goes, questioning his every move. He has little to no privacy.  How difficult to properly instruct the Disciples with Pharisees putting their noses in Jesus' business. 

 I can hear the Pharisees talking among themselves:  Why on earth does everyone claim this Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah?  This weirdo breaks every sacred law in the land with his blasphemous mumbo jumbo!  We need to gather as much info against him and quickly.  No time to lose!  We cannot risk other Jews converting to this man's strange ways!

Only a few passages in the bible mention Jesus as being angry.  Most of us are familiar with Jesus losing his cool in the temple, casting a whip at the money changers and turning over merchant tables!  Anger is a rare occurrence because Our Lord remains peaceful and calm most of the time. However, there comes a breaking point when Jesus refuses to take much more of stupidity, hypocrisy, and wrongful doing. (The same goes for most of us as human beings!)

Jesus knows all too well the Pharisees' harden hearts.  They don't care to learn about the Truth of Christ.  In many respects, they are jealous and resentment of this self-proclaimed Messiah.  Christ takes all of the glory, power, and attention away from themselves.  Hence, I think of the Pharisees as cowardly and weak.  It's as if each one of them possess a withered hand.  A hand that obeys the law to the 'T' but also a hand which accepts bribes and resorts to corrupt practices.  Their hypocrisy is downright shameful!  

Here comes along the poor man with a disfigured and withered hand.  He didn't do anything to deserve it.  He was most likely born that way.  Yet, Jesus decides to heal him on the Sabbath.  He doesn't give a rats you-know-what those pesky Pharisees think.  He actually asks for permission in an indirect way but the cowardly Pharisees refuse to answer.  I find the Pharisees' silence very interesting.  What was going in their minds as they watched a miracle take place?  Did they secretly wish to be like Christ or were they so full of rage they wanted to see him dead?  Unfortunately, they were not too fond of Jesus' spectacular healing.  It's too strange, too miraculous, and too against Jewish law.

Are you withered or weak?  Is your belief in Jesus a little iffy?  If so, I encourage you to read the bible.  Start off with the scripture readings of the day as presented in the Mass liturgy.  Then explore the passages you find insightful more thoroughly.  Sign up for a bible study or do some research on your own.  There are tons of excellent commentaries available!  

Don't become a Pharisee deciding that Jesus is a phony baloney!  Don't turn away from the Church in anger and disbelief.  Always remember that Christ loves us and heals us!  He never abandons us!

Saint Agnes, Pray for Us!

-J.

Anchor of the Soul

Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

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   ....we who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged to hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm, which reaches into the interior behind the veil,  where Jesus has entered on our behalf as forerunner, becoming high priest forever...

As a kid, I was mesmerized by the ocean. We lived near San Francisco Bay in the heart of a Northern California.  We often visited Fisherman's Wharf or drove through the hilly streets of downtown admiring the ocean front. I'll never forget the low lying fog, the damp chill, and the smell of the salty air.

 Years later, after we moved to Dallas, I remember how my mother decorated my bedroom with an ocean-themed bed spread, artwork, and sea-related toys. She knew my childhood dream was to become a marine biologist someday.  I wanted to be a female Jacques Cousteau! I relished in the idea of saving the tortoises, the coral reefs, and the colorful fish.  The ocean's fauna and flora appealed to my childhood curiosity.  Sadly, my childhood dream never achieved reality.  God directed me on a totally different path; a path I never imagined so challenging yet spiritually fruitful.  

We all have dreams as children. Maybe we wish to become an NFL football star or an Olympic athlete.  Maybe we want to grow up to be a rock star or a famous actor.  Maybe life as a priest or sister will be a dream come true....

Dreams bring hope to the future. We have something to look forward to and something to prepare for.  When we stop dreaming, that's when life fails to progress.  I think of Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have A Dream" speech.  Just imagine if Dr. King gave up his fight for Civil Rights. Wow, how things would be different....

Maybe we dream of becoming another Martin Luther King as we strive to preserve the Right to Life  from birth until natural death...

When the ocean of life becomes rocky, and our hopes and dreams crash around us, Jesus Christ is our rescue.  He is the anchor of the soul.  When we believe and trust in Him, our sailboats won't float away.  It's as if Jesus places an anchor around our hearts so that we never drift away from him permanently. Yes, there are times our hopes and dreams don't pan out.  We may blame God for our misfortunes, attempting to yank apart the heavy rope linking us to Christ's anchor.  However, we must remember that sometimes things don't work out because God has something else better planned!  Christ's anchor doesn't rust away.  It stays firmly in place in our soul.  When our souls wish to veer into uncharted territory, God doesn't allow us to stray too far.  In fact, with steadfast patience and eagerness to follow God's will our lives calm down.  Dire situations become smooth sailing.  Christ's anchor no longer feels heavy and burdensome.

What are your dreams and ambitions?  Is Christ part of your plan?  Imagine sailing along the high seas destined for a promising future.  You have the anchor of the soul bound tightly to your vessel. Christ's anchor keeps you on course through life's ups and downs. The anchor is always set sure and firm in place..

“The ship of my life may or may not be sailing on calm and amiable seas. The challenging days of my existence may or may not be bright and promising. Stormy or sunny days, glorious or lonely nights, I maintain an attitude of gratitude. If I insist on being pessimistic, there is always tomorrow. Today I am blessed.”- Maya Angelou

-J.

Sewing & Fasting - The Tapestry of Life

Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

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Gospel of Mark 2:18-22

   “Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?”Jesus answered them,  “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?
As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day.  No one sews a piece of unshrunken cloth on an old cloak.  If he does, its fullness pulls away, the new from the old, and the tear gets worse."

Usually when I read this gospel passage, I pay attention to the wine and new wine skins image. However, today I'm reflecting more closely on the metaphor of the unshrunken cloth sewn onto an old cloak.  What is Jesus referring to exactly?  I find the comparison a little difficult to comprehend. Sewing and fasting seem like an odd match up.  I'm sure people in biblical times understood it much easier...

Most people don't hand sew their clothes anymore.  If something needs patching, it's taken over to the tailor or thrown in the trash if it's too ratty looking.  A brand coat can be purchased at a local Walmart for pennies on the dollar. 

So how is sewing related to fasting??  I'm going to go out on a limb in my interpretation.  Here it goes....

In the parable, the Pharisees ask Jesus why his disciples do not fast on the Sabbath.  It's clear to Jesus that there is no need to fast as long as he is alive, preaching the good news and converting sinners.  Fasting is more of a penitential observance and solemn activity.  It's an act of forgoing nourishment in order to purge our sins and bring us closer to God.  The thing is God is present in the human flesh as Jesus Christ.  No need to eliminate food when the Bridegroom is present.  Let the feasting begin!  The feasting won't last forever, so it should be enjoyed to the fullest.    Fasting will become much more important after Jesus dies on the cross.

In terms of sewing, seamstresses know that a garment must be prepared properly in order for a patch to stay in place.  If not, a button will come off or a thread will unravel.  An old piece of cloth sewed onto an old garment won't hold up as well, but a new piece of cloth will become much more resilient to tearing and unraveling.  Why use old cloth when new cloth is available?  Why fast when God is present among man?  It just doesn't make a whole lot of sense.  New is better than old, isn't it? 

The tapestry of life is made up of intricate threads.   These threads were created by God.  When threads unravel, God weaves them back into place.  When a piece of fabric tears off, Christ restores it to new.  When the end of the tapestry snags on a cutting edge, the Holy Spirit repairs it.  The tapestry of life and The Holy Trinity become one; however, this unity best survives when we remain faithful to God.  

As clothes fade and thin from much wear, so can our hope and love in Christ.  This is when we must turn to God in prayer and fasting!  The Bridegroom is no longer with us on earth; however, his Spirit is definitely present.  It just takes a little attention to detail, noticing the rich colors outlining our individual tapestries of life.  They are each uniquely formed to highlight our gifts and talents.  The color, texture, softness, and durability of life's tapestry remind us of God's presence.  

Do we use our God given talents to evangelize the faith to others?  Or, do we remain judgmental like the Pharisees? 

We can sew our mouths shut, or we can choose to eat the Word of God, proclaiming Christ's message with fervor!

-J.

Purchased at a Price

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

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1 Corinthians 6:13C-15A, 17-20

Avoid immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body,   but the immoral person sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore glorify God in your body.

This past Saturday I returned from a four-day trip to Viva Las Vegas.  I flew out there to see my sister and 10 month old niece.  We visited Nellis Air Force Base, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park, and drove up to Mount Charleston.  I was surprised by the mountains and valleys.  It's as if God took a brush and lightly painted everything in shades of brown and red with trickles of green and blue.  I never knew the desert could be so beautiful.

We spent one evening in the casino.  I lost all of my money in less than an hour!  Gambling has never been my forte....

When I read Sunday's reading from 1st Corinthians with Paul's warning to "avoid immortality" I couldn't help but think of Las Vegas, otherwise known as Sin City.  Vegas has a reputation for decadence.  People visit  to gamble, drink, carry on in sexual trysts, and otherwise PARTY.  As the old adage goes:  What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!  

People from all over the world travel to this city of electricity with high anticipation.  They hope to WIN BIG at the casino tables, receiving enough comps for a free dinner, show, or even a hotel room stay.  They desire to inebriate their bodies with intoxicating liquors and sensual liaisons without worry or regret.  Isn't Sin City meant for excessively naughty behavior?

The Vegas excitement is thrilling.   If you've ever been on an airplane going to Vegas, you know exactly what I mean.  Everybody is super psyched.  However, on the return flight the excitement wanes as nasty hangovers linger and wallets come home empty.

It's okay to visit Las Vegas.  I'm not discouraging people.  It really is a fun town.  However, from a Christian perspective we must be careful.  Don't allow excessive drinking and eating turn us into gluttons.  Don't allow our appetite for men (and women) cause us to engage in sexual activities we will long regret.  Don't allow the thrill of the slot machine or card table push us into spending money beyond our means.  In other words, moderation is key!  Remember Paul's words "your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you."

God has purchased each of us at a price. No dollar amount comes near to the cost of what Jesus paid for us by dying on the Cross for our sins.  This is why it's important for us to steer clear from immoral behaviors.  Anyway, who wants to feel guilty, shameful and worthless all of the time?  When we treat our bodies, and those of others, with dignity and respect those feelings disappear.

Don't gamble away your life in deadly sin.  Take a throw of the dice and allow Christ to be the big winner in your life!

-J.

Spiritual Fruits of Jesus' Baptism

The Baptism of The Lord


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Gospel of Mark 1:7-11

It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John.On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him.And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

Do you remember the day you were baptized?  Perhaps you were christened as an infant and only remember the ceremony from your parents' point of view.  Maybe you were baptized as a teenager and remember vividly the what, when and how of that exciting moment.  Or, perhaps you were baptized as an adult during the Easter Vigil.

The Sacrament of Baptism wipes away the negative effects of original sin.  We are "made new" and connected more intimately with our Lord.  We become a member of the Christian community when we take our baptismal promises.  We are called to follow the Ways of the Lord, keep the Commandments, and spread the Christian Truth to others.

Whenever I read the story of the Baptism of Our Lord, I reflect on my own baptism. On Palm Sunday in 1985, I was baptized in the United Methodist Church.  I was a pre-teen who only months before felt the Holy Spirit calling me to become Christian "officially." My mother never forced baptism on me.  In fact, she allowed me to make my own decisions concerning religious practice.  She wasn't a church going person, but she never denied me the right to explore God in my own way.  I'm very fortunate my mother supported by spiritual journey.

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord officially ends the Christmas Season.  As we say bye bye to Baby Jesus until next Christmas, we begin to reflect on Jesus' public ministry. (Ordinary Time is once again upon us, but remember it's really Extra-Ordinary Time!)  

I think of four spiritual fruits which can be harvested from Christ's own baptism.  These four fruits better help us understand the meaning behind our own baptisms as well demonstrate to us just how much God cares for our souls.

Christ's Baptism:

• Showed us the way to humility. In other words, Christ humbled himself by undergoing baptism in the Jordan River.  He didn't need his sins purified because he didn't harbor original sin to begin with.  He allowed himself to lay low in the river, cleansed by the prophet John the Baptist.  He could have chosen to not undergo baptism, but instead felt like he should experience what all Jews did at the time.  

• Cleansed away the stain of original sin transforming us into children of God.    The Sacrament of Baptism cleanses us from the effects of original sin, uniting us as children of God.  We no longer have to worry about Adam and Eve's sin since it's wiped away by the healing effects of water.  This doesn't mean we are become sin-free.  We will still fall into temptation.  We will still commit sin.  This is why the Church provides us with the Sacrament of Reconciliation so we can receive an outpouring of grace, taking us back to the state we were in after our baptism.

• Opened the door to repentance for others preparing for baptism.   It takes a lot of consideration and courage to undergo baptism.  It is a huge life-long commitment.  Being willing to repent from our sins, and live a life devoted to Christ, is no easy undertaking.  However, when we become newly baptized we announce our enduring faith and belief in God.  Just knowing that God constantly forgives us and pours out is mercy brings about immense comfort.

• Revealed to us The Holy Trinity.  Not very many scripture passages in the New Testament pinpoint to all three images of the Holy Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  This is what makes the Baptism of Jesus even more special.  The Spirit in the form of a dove flies over Jesus as the Father proclaims, "You are my beloved son; with you I am well pleased."  This makes me think of the parents and Godparents of an infant.  They are so pleased to see their child baptized by the minister.  They realize the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is present in the Church, in baptism ceremony, and in the smiles of family and friends in attendance.

This week take a moment this to reflect on your own baptism and thank God for the tremendous gift he gave to His Church!

-J.

The Mirror and Window of Baptism

Saturday After Epiphany

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Gospel of John 3:22-30

Jesus and his disciples went into the region of Judea, where he spent some time with them baptizing. John was also baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was an abundance of water there, and people came to be baptized, for John had not yet been imprisoned.  Now a dispute arose between the disciples of John and a Jew about ceremonial washings. 

This week while scrolling through Netflix's television show selections I stumbled across a British mini series titled  Black Mirror.  (Viewer Discretion Advised!) The series is a modern day version of The Twilight Zone with episodes exploring the "What If" behind technology and social media.  The bizarre, and often repulsive themes, make it interesting yet dark viewing.  It's frightening to think how technology causes a dignitary to perform an unmentionable act; technology enslaves an individual with 24 hour a day images and exercise; a technological device gives a person the ability to rewind the past; or a software package  allows loved ones to speak to the dead!  I've watched this show with jaw- dropping disbelief.  Just what if our future took such diabolical shifts?  When will be the end point of God's presence in our lives and the beginning of a Technological God?  Will God allow man to destroy himself through technology?  

In today's gospel, we find both Jesus and John the Baptist baptizing in the Jordan River.  The disciples of John are in dispute.  Is the Jew on the other side of the river an inpostor?  Does he have the authority to cleanse away sin like their Desert Leader who subsists on locust and honey?  What's going on here?  John the Baptist makes the point that he must decrease as the Son of Man increases.

Imagine baptism in the form of the Jordan River behaving like both a mirror and a window.  When  souls are enamored by God, trusting in His divine protection with a willingness to follow His Truth, the water acts as a window into hearts.  Lovers of God see through the glistening water opportunity to help those in need.  They discover ways to evangelize the faith without "watering down" concepts or promoting false teachings.  They honor the promises of Baptism, using its gift to the fullest....

On the other hand, the waters of the Jordan convert into a mirror when the faithful turn inward with selfish pursuits.  They are so "in love" with their success and material goods that the water reflects back on them. Just like inside a Fun House at a local fair or carnival, the mirror can become convex or concave obscuring body images.  Selfish souls view themselves grander than Our Lord, increasing their own worldliness while decreasing grace-filled effect of God's will.  The mirror can easily crack and become black as sin literally takes over the selfish soul.  Overtime, the mirror will shatter into millions of tiny little pieces.  The weight of sin and a refusal to acknowledge God causes stress fractures beyond repair.

A mirror looks inward; a window looks outward.  
A mirror highlights the self; a window allows us to see outside the self. 
A mirror hides our flaws so they cannot be seen by others; a window makes our flaws visible to all.

Do you choose to honor your baptismal promises in front of a window, evangelizing the faith and honoring God's commandments?  Or do you choose to ignore them living a life behind a mirror?  I hope you make the right choice!

St. Raymond of Penafort, Pray for Us!

-J.

When the Going Gets Tough

Friday After Epiphany


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Gospel of Luke 5:12-16

It happened that there was a man full of leprosy in one of the towns where Jesus was;

and when he saw Jesus, he fell prostrate, pleaded with him, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” Jesus stretched out his hand, touched him, and said,“I do will it. Be made clean.” And the leprosy left him immediately.

Remember Billy Ocean's classic song When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going?   Any fan of the 80's may have seen the "Jewel of the Nile" movie which made this song famous.....

When the "going gets tough" do we turn to Jesus like the leper in today's gospel reading? I think of the poor leper, in horrific pain and discomfort, approaching Jesus with hopefulness.  He sees relief from his immense suffering standing in front of him.

Will Jesus flinch at the sight of his ugly sores?  No way! Will Jesus run away like so many other people? Absolutely not!  Will Jesus heal him? Undeniably YES!

One thing interesting is the leper didn't demand to be healed by shouting loudly or making a scene.  He didn't push his weight around acting like he "deserved" healing.  He laid prostrate in obedience simply stating, "Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean."  He allowed the Lord to call the shots!  Wow, if we all had the same faith and patience as the man with leprosy!  So many times we want to battle things out ourselves. When we're sick, we moan and groan refusing to go to the doctor.  Herbal remedies will help.....When we're having a bad time at work;we take out frustrations on the spouse and kids.  That releases stress.....When we're financially under water; we maintain our high life style through credit cards.  Plastic is our savior....

Back in 2012, shortly after I returned from my overseas trip to Malaysia, I came down with a bad case of strep throat.  I took a round of antibiotics with the symptoms soon disappearing.  However, six months later I broke out in a horrible rash all over my face.  It turned out to be staph infection related to my original bout with strep. (It had laid dormant for that many months.) It was a more uncommon strain, so I had to go through two different types of antibiotics.  I felt like a leper inside and outside!  The itching and pain was miserable. I tried to hide my face as best I could but the redness and sores could not be covered up too well....

What if I lived in biblical times?  I'd be an outcast in society for a simple skin infection.  People would think I gravely sinned against God.  I may be living on the streets begging for food.  Maybe by some miracle I could repent of my "sins" and be cleansed by a priest in the temple.  Just think if Jesus saw me in my pain and discomfort, he'd be willing to cure me! Awesome!

When the going gets tough, the tough get going!  We can "get going" by accepting situations as being part of God's will, leaving the control up to Him.  We can also "get going" by praying!  Don't lose sight of the power of prayer when troubles leave us drained physically, emotionally, and spiritually.  

"Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you."

-St. Augustine

 -J.

The Heart of A Helping Hand

Tuesday After Epiphany

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When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.

On New Year's Eve, I stopped by Target to buy a case of Duraflame logs and a bottle of bubbly. I planned to spend the evening curled up next to a roaring fire, watching a chick flick while nursing on a glass of Prosecco. As I pushed the heavy shopping cart back to my car, I noticed a couple standing in front of the entrance speaking Italian.  The man smiled as he glimpsed up at me.  I returned the smile thinking, "Whoa, he's a good looking guy!" Suddenly, I hit a bump in the pavement which caused the the box of logs to roll into the middle of the parking lot!  I cursed under my breath, totally annoyed.  How on earth would I be able to lift that heavy box now?  I heard the Italian man ask, "Miss, Do you need some assistance?"  I responded, "Oh yes, please!  Thank you so much for your help!"  He lifted up the heavy box and placed it inside the trunk.  He smiled again saying, "Have a Happy New Year!"

Wow, here this guy - a total stranger - saw a need and helped out! Just like Jesus was moved with pity at the vast crowd, sharing the limited fish and bread, this handsome stranger shared his muscle power by carrying the box of Duraflame logs to my car.  Not too often do I encounter a Good Samaritan, but when one arrives I'm always very grateful.

Let us love one another.  Why are some people unwilling to lift a finger for someone in need?  I always thought selfishness was to blame, or perhaps the fear of being sued in our litigious society. On the other hand, some people were never taught how to help others.  Maybe they grew up in homes where it was a sign of weakness to ask for help or to provide help in return.  Maybe showing altruism - selfless concern for the well-being of others -  lead to jealousy and resentment within the family itself.....

Sadly, within the work environment, competition and the desire to "one up" leads to a person's reluctance to assist: "If I help that person then he (or she) will become more successful than me!"

When we love one another, and I mean love without conditions attached, we are much more willing to help.  We will help without even thinking about it!  It comes natural as we put on the mind and heart of Christ!   Jesus realized among the crowds a great need for guidance and instruction.  The people were lost without a shepherd and clueless without a leader.  They were desperate to be forgiven and healed. The Lord was alive in the flesh, possessing the heart of a helping hand!

God is Love   We should remember on a daily basis that God is Love.  He mends our brokenness; forgives our selfishness; heals our stubbornness; and blesses us beyond measure.  God's Love transcends all human love combined.  The Eucharist is the epitome of this Divine Love.  Regular reception of Christ's Precious Body and Blood encourages us to give a helping hand, flash a friendly smile, and care for others unconditionally.

A Saintly Example  Yesterday, I finished reading Sigrid Undset's classic book "Catherine of Siena." I've been studying Saint Catherine for the last few months.  (This is why I reference her so often in my posts.  She's so inspiring!)  I conclude she is one of the best examples of altruistic love for both the human body and soul. There's a interesting story of an elderly woman suffering from advanced breast cancer.  The oozing sores were so foul smelling that everybody in Siena refused to care for her except for Saint Catherine.  She graciously accepted the opportunity to become this woman's nurse despite the curses, insults, and attempt to tarnish her good name.  At one point, the smell was so repulsive that Catherine began to get sick.  She felt so guilty for her physical reaction that she drank the bowl of pus drained from the woman's sores.  Yes, this is not a very appealing image.  (I hope nobody is eating while they read this post.)  Yet, it just goes to show how much Saint Catherine loved her patient as well as the Lord.  She couldn't bare to show sickness toward another human being.

A New Year is upon us.  Why not love one another and strive to teach one another?  Why not lend your heart to a stranger and give a helping hand?!

The Epiphany of Our Lord

The Epiphany of the Lord

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Gospel of Matthew 2:1-12

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod,  behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.”

Today is the Feast of the Epiphany, the manifestation of the Son of God to the entire world.  It's a beautiful historical event when the three Magi, guided by a bright shining star, visited the Christ child.  Although pagan in religious original, the Magi realized the "King of the Jews" was among them; someone of importance meant to be venerated and honored.  The three wise men presented the Christ child with gifts of traditional gold, Frankincense and myrrh.  Gold represents Christ's kingship.  Frankincense represent's Christ's divinity.  The myrrh represents Christ's ultimate death.  (Myrrh was used as a common oil in burials.)  

This quote from Saint Gregory the Great brings greater meaning to the Epiphany:  "When the king of heaven was born, the heavens know that he was God because they immediately sent forth a star; the sea knew him because it allowed him to walk upon it; the earth knew him because it trembled when he died; the sun knew him because it hid the rays of its light."

A few questions to ponder based on St. Gregory's words:

• Do we really know Christ?  
• Do we walk on a path of discovery just like the Magi, learning more about God through Holy Scripture and the Sacraments?
• Are we a Rising Star to others through our Christ-like witness?
• Are we a luminous light of faith, hope and love?

We all have the capacity to become wise men and women.  All we need to do is take a look around us, recognize God's eternal light, and acknowledge our blessings.  No need to be jealous if our bank accounts are not full of gold.  No need to be resentful because our spiritual life isn't as pious as another.  No need to be worried that we will die of some painful disease.  God wants us to follow his luminous light, casting away all of the negative thoughts and feelings which plague us.  (Remember the Devil loves to pick out our weaknesses.)  Just like the Rising Star brought hope to the Magi, it brings hope to us, too.  We must follow this bright light.  Yes, sometimes it will be masked behind the clouds, and we think it has gone away for good.  However, Christ's star will always shine once again!  It never goes out!

Songs of thankfulness and praise

Jesus, Lord, to thee we raise,

Manifested by the star

To the sages from afar;

Branch of royal David's stem

In they birth at Bethlehem;

Anthems be to thee addressed,

God in man made manifest.

-Hymn sung to the tune Come, Ye Thankful People, Come

-J.

In The Holy Name of Jesus

Saturday Before Epiphany


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The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.  Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. Everyone who has this hope based on him makes himself pure, as he is pure.

Over Christmas weekend, I watched the riveting film Unbroken  based on the true story of Louis Zamperini, US Olympic runner and World War II bombardier.  This outstanding movie depicts the ugliness of war and one man's resilience against life-threatening odds. How any man can survive 46 days in a tiny life raft on the ocean and then 2 years as a Japanese prisoner of war is truly a remarkable feat.

In one movie scene, Louis is so desperate to be saved from the raft while exposed to starvation, sharks and scorching sunlight,  he prays: "God, if you rescue me I will serve you the rest of my life!"  Years later he kept his promise by returning to Japan and forgiving each one of his captors.  He took Christ's command "Love Thy Enemy" seriously.

What is in a name? Before a child is born, parents carefully choose a name.  The name is usually of significance; for example, naming a child after a family member. Sometimes people select off-the-wall names, especially Hollywood celebrities.  Why name a child Moonflower, Willow, Apple, Blue or even Henessey like the liquor?! Strangeness draws attention.

The Holy Name of Jesus causes a lot of attention; not attention because it's weird but because it's holy. Jesus in Hebrew means "God Saves."  The name was proclaimed by the Angel Gabriel, signifying God's commitment to humanity.  Why doubt for a moment that God hears and answers prayers?  Why think God doesn't understand our sufferings?  Louis Zamperini's inspiring story is a perfect testimony of God's divine providence.

The world does not know us  Recently, I read a news story about a woman who bought a Playstation 4 as a Christmas present for her boyfriend.  Upon opening the box, two bibles were tucked neatly in place of the gaming system.  The woman felt she "ruined" Christmas for her boyfriend.  Also, the boyfriend remarked that he "didn't want the bibles unless they were autographed by Jesus himself."  Interesting comment; yet, it highlights general ignorance and indifference toward Christ.  Most likely this man doesn't even realize his bibles stand the test of time and are worth much more than a popular gaming system which will become obsolete in a year or two!  

Jesus "autographs" his name throughout the books of the New Testament.  Read the beautiful stories of Christ's forgiveness and healing and discover a treasure trove of wisdom. A spiritual "autograph" is much more meaningful than a physical one.

Today, think about what The Holy Name of Jesus means to you.  Does the name Jesus bring about fulfillment and joy, or guilt and fear?  Do you have a close personal relationship with Jesus or is he simply just a name in a news story?  Don't allow sin to interfere with devotion to Christ.  His Holy Name purifies, clarifies, and sanctifies!

In conclusion, here is an original poem I wrote self-titled "In The Holy Name of Jesus"

In The Holy Name of Jesus,
My heart becomes pure,
So full of peace and joy,
I know I will endure.
Adversity and challenge,
Burden and strife,
Troubles and obstacles,
Will not destroy my life.

I pray to The Holy Name,
Of Jesus the Lord above,
His Love is unconditional,
His Forgiveness like no other!

His Name purifies,
His Name glorifies,
His Name clarifies,
His Name sanctifies.

The Holy Name of Jesus,
Wraps His arms in mine.
He cares and protects me,
I know everything will be fine!


-J.