Solidarity Through Our Blessed Mother

Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary


(Click Here for Readings)

So he called in all his Friends and said to them: “Sleep has departed from my eyes, for my heart is sinking with anxiety.

I said to myself: ‘Into what tribulation have I come, and in what floods of sorrow am I now! Yet I was kindly and beloved in my rule.’ But I now recall the evils I did in Jerusalem, when I carried away all the vessels of gold and silver that were in it, and for no cause gave orders that the inhabitants of Judah be destroyed. I know that this is why these evils have overtaken me; and now I am dying, in bitter grief, in a foreign land.”

The Seasonal Blues    My body whines in discomfort as my mind oozes with sadness and anxiety.  This time of the year begins three long months of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).  The lack of sunlight, colder days and seasonal allergy symptoms leave me tired and irritable.  I feel like Scrooge with "Blah Humbug" as my middle name.  I ask Our Lord the same three letter word every year  - WHY?  Why do I feel so dreadful?  Why do I have difficulty getting into the holiday spirits?  Why do I dwell on all the wrong in my life instead of  the good?  Why is prayer and meditation such a greater challenge?   Sometimes I wonder if life as a bear would be better.  Then I can hibernate during the dreary months of  November thru February...   

One thing for certain is I always turn to Our Blessed Mother during these tough months.  She gives me encouragement when I rather mope around, depressed and isolated from others.

The Presentation of Our Blessed Mother  Today, the church celebrates the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  Although not mentioned in the New Testament, the story is found in the apocryphal book Protoevangelium of James.  Grateful for a child after years of infertility, Anne and Joachim wished to consecrate Mary to God. Tradition states that at the age of 3 years Anne and Joachim presented Mary at the Jerusalem temple where she remained with other young girls, educated in the Jewish faith.  

In Solidarity   When I feel depressed, the last thing I want to see or hear is bad news from the media.  So, when terrorists attacked Paris, killing 129 people including an American, I mourned like the rest of the world.  I imagined Our Blessed Mother wrapping the entire country of France in her arms with tears streaming down her cheeks.  When her children hurt, she hurts.  When violence strikes, Our Blessed Mother protects.  When life is full of despair and sadness, Mary comforts us in special way only a loving mother knows. 

"Oh Mother of God, some may rejoice in their innocence, others may be glad of their plentiful merits, let others exult in God's mercy shown to them without intermediaries; but you, my Mother, you are the only hope and solace of my life.  When I completely despair of God and of myself, thinking of you, recalling you, my spirit comes alive again, as if out of the deepest darkness.  You are my glorying, my well-being, my honor, and my life."  - Blessed Henry Suso

-J.

Render Justice

Saturday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time


(Click Here for Readings)

Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. He said, “There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. And a widow in that town used to come to him and say, ‘Render a just decision for me against my adversary.’ For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought,‘While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike me.’”



Monday's Nocturnal Distress    Peacefully asleep in my bed, I suddenly woke up feeling lightheaded and clammy all over.  I recognized the signs of an approaching fainting spell, so I began deep yoga breathing as I removed my bed covers and nightshirt.  I reached over for a glass of water, placed on the nightstand, but found it empty.  Soon I passed out.....

I found myself lying on the carpet unable to open my eyes or move my hands and legs.  Ringing filled my ears. I do not know how long I was unconscious.  Maybe only a few minutes or as much as an hour. The inside of my mouth was filled with ulcers.  My nose bled non-stop and the right side of my head screamed in pain.  I noticed a scrape on my left knee, the result of a carpet burn.

What caused me to faint?  How did I fall off the bed like this? Then I remembered the new medication I took earlier in the evening. I succumbed to its serious side effects...

The next day I stayed home from work while I nursed bruises around my eye, nose, and chin.  I searched Google for info on the malicious Rx.  Turns out the drug dangerously lowers the body's sodium levels which causes lower blood pressure, fainting and a laundry list of other adverse effects.  Evidently, the drug company was sued by the FDA five years ago for improperly marketing the drug.  The drug company had to pay millions in fines.

When I filled the prescription, the pharmacist seemed to be especially concerned about making sure I was aware of the potential side effects. I blew him off thinking I'd be okay.  Boy, I should have heed the warning!

I felt like I came close to death experiencing this nocturnal distress.

Domestic Distress   Thank the Lord I did not seriously injure myself from the fainting spell. However, many women and children who are regularly abused are not so fortunate.  They live in daily fear not knowing when the next yell, slap, or punch will strike next. Their physical distress is endless.  A battered wife may think to herself:

What is wrong with me?  Why does he punch when he gets liquored up?  Why does he slap me around when he's mad at someone else?  I do not know where to go or where to turn to!  The  make-up may cover up the bruises on the outside but I'm bleeding on the inside --so much pain and hopelessness. Will I ever get away from the violence?  What about the safety of my children?  Dear God, please help me!

Like the battered wife, the widow in today's gospel reading felt the sting of the adversary's abuse. We are not sure what her problem was.  Did a land owner treat her unfairly?  Was she being forced into slavery of some sort?  Did some how she get cheated out of her property?  All we know is that she was fed up with the judge's inaction. She demanded justice, a resolution of some sort.  Her hounding and pleading bothered the judge so much that he gave in and granted her request.  How come he was so scared that she would strike him?  I can't help but think of the judge as a cranky old wimp too unmanly to deal with a strong, resilient woman.  The widow had enough of the injustice!  She remained persistent and eventually got what she asked for.

Render Justice   Remember these words:  Pray always without becoming weary!  When bad things happen to us, lift them up to the Lord.  Seek help when things seem hopeless.  Get away from a dangerous situation however difficult it may be.  Be resilient and strong when life whips us around in the most unexpected ways.  Remember that God does not wish for any of his children to be abused and neglected.  Do not give up on justice!  Sometimes we think those who hurt us will never get punished.  However, God has an amazing away of handling people and situations.  We just need to remain faithful and trust in his Holy Will.

"Peace is not the product of terror or fear. Peace is not the silence of cemeteries. Peace is not the silent result of violent repression. Peace is the generous, tranquil contribution of all to the good of all. Peace is dynamism. Peace is generosity. It is right and it is duty."

-Blessed Oscar Romero

-J.

Gather Around the Table

Saturday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

(Click Here for Readings)

Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, ‘My friend, move up to a higher position.’ Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”


Halloween 1994 - Fall semester of my junior year at Texas A&M University.  My sorority sponsored a Trick or Treat for Canned Foods to benefit a local food pantry.   We were encouraged to dress up in costumes and knock door-to-door in neighborhoods around College Station. 

I remember wearing a bumble bee costume with a black leotard and coordinating yellow/black striped wings.   I was still trying to lose my "Freshman 15" weight, so I felt conscientious about my figure.   Fortunately, my sorority sisters said I looked absolutely adorable:  Cute as a Honey Bee!

At first, I thought the mission of "harvesting" canned food from the neighborhood was a silly idea.  I quickly changed my mind when one home after the next donated boxes full of pantry food!  In fact, we received so many "Thank-yous" for our volunteer efforts.  Home owners looked surprised to see college students more interested in feeding the hungry than flirting with fraternity brothers at a Halloween party.  Some people even handed us Smarties, Twizzlers, Snickers, and M&Ms as we continued our route through the Halloween drizzle and chill.

I felt like a humble honey bee after collecting so many cans of vegetables, soups, and SpaghettiOs.  I totally underestimated the generosity of people. Even though we were no longer little girls dressed up like Cinderella or Tinker Bell,  holding our mommy or daddy's hand, we demonstrated to strangers our commitment to those in need.  We could have decided to get drunk at The Chicken (a local country bar), shack up with a stranger at a frat party, or get involved in some kind of "criminal" mischief. Yet, we all had a common goal in mind as sorority sisters:  helping the greater community.  Nothing more rewarding than setting aside our own personal comforts and serving others!

Halloween 2015  I sit at my laptop thinking about the Halloween nights of the past. Countless hours spent watching horror movies.  Pounds of candies consumed.  Dozens of costumes worn by yours truly! Parties, dances, religious observances, and cemetery visits.  Halloween is one of those times of the year when I think about family and friends who have died.  Are their souls in heaven?  Are they at rest?  I miss them terribly and pray for them.

What if I hosted a Halloween party for some famous biblical figures?  Who would I invite?  Let's see:  Of course, Jesus, Our Blessed Mother and Joseph.  Mary Magdalene, Martha and Lazareth.  Peter, Paul and the Disciples.  Mark, Matthew, Luke, and John.  Gosh, in my small apartment I could set up a card table next to my regular dining room table. Prepare carafes of wine, fish fillets, loafs of bread, and ripe olives. Who would dare sit himself (or herself) at the head of the table?  Would it be one of the disciples quarreling about who is the greatest?  Would it be Peter as our first Pope?  Maybe the head of the table would remain empty as guests decided to turn a seated dinner into a standing room only buffet!  Share the food and fellowship with camaraderie and respect.  Lay to rest any ideas that one person is better than another because of wealth, power, or clout.  Cast aside Mrs. Pride and Mr. Ego in exchange for Mrs. Humble and Mr. Compassion!  Who knows, we may open up my private Halloween party to the entire neighborhood! Let the trick or treating begin....

Happy Halloween!

"It's said that All Hallows' Eve is one of the nights when the veil between the worlds is thin - and whether you believe in such things or not, those roaming spirits probably believe in you, or at least acknowledge your existence, considering that it used to be their own. Even the air feels different on Halloween, autumn-crisp and bright." - Erin Morgenstern

-J.

Pay It Forward

Saturday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

(Click Here for Readings)

For those who live according to the flesh are concerned with the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the spirit with the things of the spirit. The concern of the flesh is death, but the concern of the spirit is life and peace.

Wednesday morning I craved a Chick-Fil-A spicy biscuit sandwich, so I decided to go through the drive thru on my way to work.  I sat waiting for the Mini Cooper in front of me to place her order.  Several minutes passed by when impatience set in. "Come on, Lady! Why aren't you moving forward? Make up your mind!  Is it a biscuit, fruit, or an OJ???  I needed to get to work like five minutes ago! " Finally, the car moved forward as I inhaled exhaust fumes. (Oh, the stench. Cough, cough..)  I rolled up my window mumbling to myself  "Uh!  Why did I bother coming here today?  Is this sandwich really worth the wait ?"

Feeling super hungry, cranky and not at all in the mood to go to work, I finally reached the pick-up window.  I handed the attendant my debit card.  She smiled and said, "Oh, ma'am, the lady in front of you just paid for your breakfast!"

What?  Free breakfast?  Wow!  Okay, now I felt like a jerk for being so impatient and crabby. (Lord, please pardon me!)  My foul mood instantly vanished!  I couldn't believe I was a beneficiary of the "pay it forward" phenomenon I've heard so much about.  I drove to work with a grin on my face.  The first thing I did before even turning my computer on was tell my coworkers about my experience.  

No question.  I will "pay it forward" the next time I'm at a drive thru window no matter how many passengers occupy the vehicle behind mine. Good deeds do wonders for the psyche.

Sadly, in our narcissistic culture, it's common to see people go through their every day lives without a care in the world.  They are "in-love" with themselves:  obsessed with the flesh.  These people live and breathe selfishness.  They believe life is all about accumulating wealth, power, and material possessions.  If they happen to do anything, it's to benefit their own desires.  Pride is at the focal point....

Contrast this by the faithful who are more concerned with the Spirit than the flesh.  They are observant of people and situations, finding ways to be kind and help others.  They are fine Christian witnesses who despite the negativity that is so prevalent in our society turn situations positive.  Kindness, love and goodness preferred over pride, vanity, and hatefulness. 

I think we should all "pay it forward" sometime in the next week with one act of kindness.  Offer a friend a ride, leave a nice tip at a restaurant, or compliment a co-worker for a job well done!  I think Our Lord smiles every time he sees one of his flock do something special for someone else.  We are all here on this earth to help one another and love one another.  

Throw away the selfishness and replace it with selflessness.  Do a good deed today and everyday!

St. Anthony Mary Claret, Pray for Us!

"I will be kind to everybody, particularly to those I find troublesome." - St. Anthony Mary Claret

"A life lived for others, is the only life worth living." - Albert Einstein

-J.

Wheels and Kneels

Saturday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time




(Click Here for Readings)

While Jesus was speaking, a woman from the crowd called out and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed.” He replied, “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.”

Last weekend I bought a brand new 2016 Honda Accord Coupe EX-L.  The beautiful body style is fully-loaded with the latest tech and safety features.   My old 2003 Accord with 167 K miles needed costly repairs. Two AAA emergency roadside calls within a short time period warned: "The car is dying. Time for a new set of wheels!"

 Did I make a wise decision?  Should I have purchased something without all of the bells and whistles?  I realize some people cannot afford a vehicle, yet I paid a hefty price tag for a luxury that only depreciates in value.  I can enjoy it while it is the latest and greatest,  but the new will eventually wear off.   In another 5-10 years, I'll be in the same situation with a used and worn out car.  

One thing I know for certain is The Holy Spirit never depreciates! Jesus Christ is the greatest beyond the latest!  God is the ultimate engineer, technological expert, and safety specialist.  He rides with us along the roadways of life.  Sometimes he's in the passenger seat whereas at other times he takes a hold of the steering wheel navigating us away from danger.

I like to think of an automobile as a moving sacred space.  Most of us cannot safely kneel on the floorboard. However, we can still pray, meditate, and witness to others as we place a foot on the gas pedal and crank up the tunes! 

With my new Sirius XM radio, I can hear the word of God and observe it through Catholic radio. I can be a good Christian witness by obeying traffic laws.  Instead of becoming irritated while stuck in traffic, I can pray a rosary or say a prayer for a stranded motorist.  Best of all, as I drive on long distance road trips, I can appreciate the beauty of nature - the mountains, hills, trees, and waterways.  Nothing more relaxing than seeing America's countryside knowing God is part of the landscape!

“The prayer of the farmer kneeling in his field to weed it, the prayer of the rower kneeling with the stroke of his oar, are true prayers heard throughout nature.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

-J.

On Eagles' Wings

Saturday of the Twenty Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

(Click here for readings)

"Fear not, my children; call out to God! He who brought this upon you will remember you. As your hearts have been disposed to stray from God, turn now ten times the more to seek him; For he who has brought disaster upon you  will, in saving you, bring you back enduring joy.”

Today's first reading from the Book of Baruch reminds me of the hymn "On Eagles Wings":

And he will raise you up on eagles' wings

Bear you on the breath of dawn

Make you shine like the sun

And hold you in the palm of his hand.

What comfort to know that Our Lord is present, guiding and molding us.  He holds us in the palm in his hand as he shelters us from harm.  Do not worry about falling down; the Lord lifts up.  Do not fret about being alone; the Lord is a loyal companion.  Do not worry about death; the Lord grants eternal life to all who believe and follow His Will.

Back in junior high school,  our principal asked students to submit ideas for a new school motto.  The winner of the contest received a movie theater gift card and recognition during morning announcements....

My mom and I spent a weekend brainstorming ideas.   We wanted to use the school mascot, an eagle, in the motto. I remember we stopped by a local Shell gas station to fill up my mom's old '85 Ford Thunderbird.  Noticing the word "excellence" on the gas station sign, I turned to my mom saying: "Oh, what about using the words Eagle excellence!?"  She thought it was an "excellent" idea.  By the time we filled up the gasoline tank, the new motto was created:  Experience the Eagle Excellence.   It sounded pretty darn good.  Yet, I convinced myself another student would come up with a better motto.  No way within an eagle's eye would I win the contest!

A few weeks later, I sat in 2nd period when the school motto contest winner was announced:  "And our new school motto is Experience the Eagle Excellence by Jennifer Burgin!"  My first reaction involved the instinctive cringe after hearing my last name mispronounced! However,  I quickly recovered feeling excitement as well as surprise.  Who knew my motto was a winner? I remember how proud my mom was after I told her the news.  She bragged to all of her coworkers and friends for weeks afterwords. 

I often wonder if that school motto is still in use so many years later...

We can allow fear to take over our lives, keeping us away from the Church and the Sacraments.  The eagle is one of the largest birds in the world.  We may think we can never reach its beauty, magnificence, and stature. We may assume that our littleness is a sign of worthlessness.  However, this is so far from the truth.  Through our smallness we see a need for God.  We may even crave an intimate connection with the Lord, not fully understanding how such a bond can give us interior peace and joy!

Imagine yourself flying on an eagle's wings seeing the vastness of the earth in all of its richness and beauty.  Let go of the anxiety and worry.  Snuggle against the immense wings knowing that everything will be okay.  Nothing bad lasts forever when we have Christ and Our Blessed Mother close to the heart.

"I look upon myself as a weak little bird, with only a light down as covering.  I am not an eagle, but I have only an eagle's EYES AND HEART.  In spite of my extreme littleness I still dare to gaze upon the divine Sun, the Sun of Love, and my heart feels within it all the aspirations of an eagle."

-Saint Therese of Lisieux (Feast Day October 1st)

-J.

Rock, Paper, Scissors

Saturday of the Twenty Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

(Click Here for Readings)

“This is the meaning of the parable. The seed is the word of God. Those on the path are the ones who have heard, but the Devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. Those on rocky ground are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, but they have no root; they believe only for a time and fall away in time of temptation…..But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”

As I prayed my Monday evening rosary, I contemplated today's gospel reading.  The parable of the seed sower is so familiar to us.  We read the story repeatedly throughout the liturgical year and teach it in faith formation classes. How can I approach it differently? 

Suddenly, an image came to mind:  Rock-paper-scissors!  Often I played this game as a kid.  The rock beats out scissors; paper beats out the rock; and the scissors beat out the paper.  Sometimes the rules didn't apply depending on who I exchanged hand signs with.  The "rock" tore apart the "paper" into shreds, or the "scissors" jabbed at the "rock" who had a "softer" composition.

I remember my 8th grade earth science teacher telling us that "Rocks are our friends!"  This always sounded so strange and funny.  I will never forget good old "Mr. J" because of those words.  I often wonder what ever happened to him.  

How could I be a friend with an ugly rock?  I mean, the "rock" in a game of RPS bullied over all of the other hand symbols. Furthermore, most rocks just sit there in the dirt taking up space.  They become deadly objects when they are tossed and thrown around.  Nobody likes driving on the road behind a gravel truck.  The wind blows out pebbles cracking windshields.  Plus, anyone planting  a garden understands the perils of digging up huge rocks in order to prepare the soil.  Rocks are more like inanimate enemies than hang-around pals.

From the perspective of the parable, sowing a seed in "rocky" soil doesn't bear good fruit.  The Word of God is heard and received in a phony-baloney joy.  Just pretend to believe in the Word, plant a seed in a soil full of rocks, and watch it do nothing:  No crescono!   No grow!  The rocky soil is  too malnourished and ill-cared for to produce anything of sustenance.

As we walk along the path of life, we may create our own version of Rock-paper-scissors. We clinch fists in the rock pose, turning toward anger, aggression, and violence to get what we want.  On the other hand, we grab a pair of scissors cutting away religion, integrity, honesty, and humility. We shoo away family members and friends who love us so much.  They see how we fail to live up to our full potential as we allow the addictions and immoral behaviors to leave us in perpetual misery.  Finally, we pull out  paper as we write suicidal notes addressed to God himself.  We are tired of living.  We are tired of the pain, poverty, guilty, and wretchedness of life.  We blame God for everything wrong with us!

Toss out the Rock-paper-scissors as a way of making decisions. Don't give in to the Devil playing tricks with the mind and heart. Turn toward Christ for divine advice. When we think of Jesus as our solid "rock" we suddenly understand how a rock can be our friend!   He loves us so very, very much.  He gives each one of us the precious seed of faith.  It's up to us to either plant the seed in rocky soil or rich soil.  Which one will you choose?

"What we plant in the soil of contemplation, we should reap in the harvest of action."  -Meister Eckhart

-J.

Hello, My Name is Mary

Saturday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time


(Click Here for Readings)

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I command? I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built. But the one who listens and does not act is like a person who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the river burst against it, it collapsed at once and was completely destroyed.”

Today is the Feast day devoted to The Most Holy Name of Mary.  With the pending sale of my home and so much to do before I move into my new apartment, I pause and reflect on Our Blessed Mother.  How has she assisted me on my faith journey?  How has her name influenced my life decisions, both good and bad?  Do I recognize Mary as a mediator and intercessor?  Do I keep her close to my heart like I do her Son?

I remember several years ago visiting a nearby parish on a chilly, rainy Sunday. I  was upset after an Internet troll posted a negative comment on Fr. Alfonse's blog directed towards me.  With so many nasty people stalking the web, I normally shake off such comments and move on.  But, this particular troll really struck a nerve.  I attended Mass that Sunday in hopes of clearing my mind, asking Our Lord and his Mother to help me get past the hurt and anger.

I remember walking out of the church straight into the rain without an umbrella.  My mind was more focused on my online presence than physical one .  Should I stop posting comments?  Should I stop blogging once and for all? I don't know if I'm strong enough to withstand anonymous criticisms.  I don't want people to think I'm stupid, boring, or annoying. Uh!

As I headed toward my car, a woman walked up to me and offered part of her umbrella.  I remember the warm smile and pleasant voice.  She asked my name and why I looked so sad.  I told her my name is Jennifer and that I'd just experienced hurtful criticism on a blog.  She stopped walking and looked straight at me with a look of recognition in her eyes: "Are you Jennifer who regularly posts on Fr. Alfonse's blog?"  When I answered "Yes" my face turned bright red in embarrassment.  She must have seen my profile pic. I was absolutely shocked somebody recognized me outside of my own home parish!

The woman said, "I love your comments, Jennifer.  You're a great writer!  And I know about that nasty post from the anonymous person.  Don't let that jerk upset you.  Keep on posting! Don't give up.  Always keep Our Blessed Mother close to your heart!"    

I asked the woman her name: "Oh, my name is Mary.  It's so great to finally meet you in person, Jennifer."   My heart stop for a moment.  Did she just say the name Mary?  Wow, the irony! I felt like the Holy Spirit, through the Blessed Mother's intercession, sent me a special person to uplift my spirits and give me the encouragement to continue my writing.  

I often wonder what ever happened to the Mary I met that rainy Sunday.  I'd like to thank her for taking me under the shadow of her caring wings even for only a brief moment.

I learned that day that I will not be able to please everyone  Some people will like me whereas others will loathe me.  All I can do is be the best Christian I can be.  Try not to take things personally.  Always turn toward God and Our Blessed Mother for strength and resilience.  Don't be afraid to speak out the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary even if others may not like it. 

"Mary means Star of the sea, for as mariners are guided to port by the ocean star, so Christians attain to glory through Mary’s maternal intercession.” –St. Thomas Aquinas

-J.

Be Sold on Christ!

Saturday of the Twenty-Second Week in Ordinary Time


(Click Here for Readings)

You once were alienated and hostile in mind because of evil deeds; God has now reconciled you in the fleshly Body of Christ through his death, to present you holy, without blemish, and irreproachable before him, provided that you persevere in the faith, firmly grounded, stable,

and not shifting from the hope of the Gospel that you heard…

Monday evening at 5 pm.  As I type this meditation, I sit on a shady bench in a neighborhood park.  The realtor is currently showing my home to a potential buyer. This is the 24th showing in the last five days....

My dog stares at me with her big brown eyes as I continue to type on my smartphone.

"Mommy, let's go for a walk so I can bark at those ducks in the pond!"  

"Yes, we will do that in a few minutes, my precious fur baby. Give mommy a few more minutes to think." 

Selling a home is no easy endeavor.  It's physically, mentally and emotionally demanding.  Am I doing the right thing?  Is God opening a new door or am I meant to stay where I'm at?

I received a full-price offer the first day the house went the market.   Attached to the contract was a personalized letter with the couple's family photo. They fell in love with the house.  Perfect size and location. Great neighborhood.  Close to the commuter rail.  A direct blessing from God after weeks of prayer and search.

The letter pulled at my heartstrings, so I signed the contract thinking we'd start the inspection process right away with closing in late September.  I posted "House Sold!" to all of my friends on Facebook.  I placed a holding deposit on a gorgeous new apartment less than 4 miles from work.  Everything seemed to move along perfectly. I'd be part of the statistics with a home sell in less than 4 days! 

Then the call came in Monday morning.  The buyers bailed of the contract stating they found another home.  Unbelievable!  I just blabbed all over the Internet about my home selling. Talk about jumping the gun and making preparations without the sale finalized.  Thank the Lord I was able to cancel my leasing application and receive a full deposit refund. What naivety and foolishness.  I did everything wrong allowing my emotions and impatience to fog my decision making.

"Why did I decide to skip Mass on Sunday? Maybe the buyers would not terminated the contract!" Wrong thinking again, Jennifer! God is not punishing me.  Yes, he's disappointed I did not visit him at the Eucharistic table.  I could have received peace needed in times of stress.

Dear Jesus, I'm so sorry for neglecting you.  I promise to visit you in confession soon!

Despite the disappointment and anxiety, Our Lord has another plan in mind for my home. The timing just isn't right.  Yes, I hear stories of fabulous homes selling in two days at above asking price.  I hear about the "hot" housing market.  None of this matters.  If I am meant to move, the home will sell.  I just need to remain patient.  God has a unique path prepared especially for me that is like no other.

My dog and I walk around the park, under the trees and around the pond.  Nice breeze for a hot summer's day.  I think everything will work out in the end.  I just need to remain hopeful and firmly grounded in the Lord.   Be sold on Christ!  No matter what happens I'm in good hands.  

“Things are never as they seem. A person. A Mark. A statement. They are always deeper than we perceive, like walking in the ocean and suddenly dipping under the surface because the bottom has disappeared beneath your feet. The water appears shallow until you are suddenly flailing around beneath the surface, desperately searching for stable ground once again.”

- Kelseyleigh Reber, Young Adult Author

-J.

A Change of Mentality

Memorial of the Passion of Saint John the Baptist



(Click Here for Readings)

Brothers and sisters: On the subject of fraternal charity you have no need for anyone to write you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another. Indeed, you do this for all the brothers throughout Macedonia. Nevertheless we urge you, brothers and sisters, to progress even more, and to aspire to live a tranquil life, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you.

Today is the Memorial of the Passion of Saint John the Baptist.  Most of us are very familiar with the story of John the Baptist's beheading. We read it over and over again throughout the liturgical cycle.  However, we can still harvest new meaning with every read.

Saint Paul speaks to the Thessalonians about aspiring to live a tranquil life, minding our own affairs. It is way too easy for us to blame others when life is messy and chaotic. We may meddle in other people's business in order to compensate for our own inadequacies.  A tranquil life is free from resentment and anger; gossip and meddling; envy and jealousy.  A tranquil life flourishes when we trust in the Lord and follow his teachings.  Sculpt and mold ourselves into better Christians through compassion and charity - not apathy and laziness.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI wrote the following as presented in Magnificat's "Meditation of the Day:"

"The task set before the Baptist as he lay in prison was to become blessed by this unquestioning acceptance of God's obscure will; to reach the point of asking no further for external, visible, unequivocal clarity, but, instead, of discovering God precisely in the darkness of this world and of his own life, and thus becoming profoundly blessed.  John even in his prison cell had to respond once again and anew to his own call for metanoia or a change of mentality, in order that he might recognize his God in the night in which all things earthly exist."

What struck me about this quote is the call for metanoia -  a change of mentality.  Saint John the Baptist experienced a transformation as he accepted God's will despite the difficult situation he was in.  In the darkness of the world, light shines through as we accept life's uncharted courses.

Many times we go through our routines as if on automatic pilot.  We work 8+ hours a day.  We spend the weekends attending sporting events with the kids.  We surround our lives with a bunch of activity, but do we make time for God?  Do we make it a priority to pray every day and to attend Mass every Sunday?  Are we catechizing our children in the Catholic faith?  Are we setting aside time away from all of "fun" stuff in order to thank the Lord for his abundant blessings? I think it's time for each one of us to go through a mental "check" in terms of our spiritual health.  If our faith is out-of-balance; our beliefs off center; or our trust in God in decline it's time for real change. Just think if everyone adopted the "change of mentality" challenge maybe we'd see more people in the pews, less shootings on the television, less rates of divorce, a decrease in addictions, and a greater respect for all human life.  

Saint John the Baptist, Pray for Us!


 -J.

The Beauty of Sisterhood

Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary


(Click Here for Readings)

Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter! Do not go to glean in anyone else’s field; you are not to leave here. Stay here with my women servants. Watch to see which field is to be harvested, and follow them; I have commanded the young men to do you no harm. When you are thirsty, you may go and drink from the vessels the young men have filled.” Casting herself prostrate upon the ground, Ruth said to him, “Why should I, a foreigner, be favored with your notice?” Boaz answered her: “I have had a complete account of what you have done for your mother-in-law after your husband’s death; you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know previously.”


While meditating on today's first reading from Book of Ruth, images of sisterhood come to mind.  Nuns pray the Divine Office in choir; sorority sisters dress up in identical t-shirts while engaged in community outreach; biological sisters enjoy a cup of coffee as they reminisce about childhood; women of faith gather together in prayer and fellowship....  

Sisterhood is all about connection and formation of relationships centered around common interests, traditions, passions, and even misfortunes. 

Deep in our psyches humans desire to live in community.  God did not create us to remain alone in isolation.  We are meant to bond and unite in ways that nourish and build up the Kingdom of God.   In our technological world, we remain "connected" 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Sadly, we now lack many one-on-one physical connections.  It's easier to text than pickup the phone and have a lengthy conversation.  It's quicker to look at a photo on Facebook than to meet an old friend for a meal and see how they look in person.  I think about all of my fellow "sisters" who I regularly follow on social media.  Some I have not seen in person in 2 or 3 years.  They even live in the same city.  

Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth are the perfect example of the beauty of sisterhood.  Even though not blood related, they share the grief associated with widowhood, losing the caretakers in their lives (husbands and sons).  Both women decide to travel together away from famine in order to start a better life.  They remain bonded together as they adapt to the new vocation of widowhood, gleaning for food and relying on the generosity of neighbors.  Naomi accepts her daughter-in-law even though she is a "foreigner."  The acceptance is reciprocated by Ruth.  They love one another like biological mother and daughter!  A shared faith in the Lord gives them the strength to persevere despite all of the tragedy they've endured.  Incredibly, Ruth could have decided to cut ties with Naomi after her husband's death, yet she loved her mother-in-law so much that she remained committed to her care. I wonder how many Naomis & Ruths exist in our modern day society.  We so often complain about annoying and frustrating "in laws."  Maybe we should step back and reflect on the relationship between Naomi and Ruth.  Perhaps we can "glean" inspiration from their story and improve  our own personal relationships.

Naomi plays match-maker as she introduces Boaz to Ruth. Of course, as all good love stories end, the couple gets married.  They give birth to a son they name Obed.  (Naomi is one proud grandma!) We know from biblical tradition that Ruth's son is an ancestor of Our Lord Jesus.  Wow, who ever thought the bond of sisterhood could become an important contribution to salvation history?!

"Holy Mary, comfort the miserable, help the faint hearted, cheer those that weep, pray for the people, be the advocate of the clergy, intercede for all women consecrated to God; may all who celebrate your memory feel the might of your assistance. Amen." (The Sancta Maria Prayer) 

-J.

Mary Arrayed in Gold

Solemnity of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

(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. She was with child and wailed aloud in pain as she labored to give birth. Then another sign appeared in the sky; it was a huge red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns, and on its heads were seven diadems. Its tail swept away a third of the stars in the sky and hurled them down to the earth.

As I prepare to sell my home, it's amazing the amount of "stuff" I've accumulated.  Some items haven't been touched since I moved in over 5 years ago. Words from Pope Francis such as "consumerism" and "throw-away culture" come to mind as I fill trash bags full of old clothing, house hold goods, and miscellaneous knick knacks.  Hopefully, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift will profit from my donations.

I find my prayer life has been set on "delayed" mode as I scramble to get the house in good sell condition.  Replace the dishwasher; install new carpet; fix the fence; paint the walls, etc. etc.  So much stress!  This is when I should be praying even harder!  

Sadly, as part of staging my home, I must remove all of my religious images including pictures of Our Blessed Mother. Her image always gives me peace in the middle of chaos, so storing her away in some old cardboard box doesn't seem right.  However, I understand that I could turn away potential buyers who may find my choice of religious art offensive.   Fortunately. once I move into my new apartment Our Blessed Mother will regain prominence.

Today the Church celebrates the Feast of Assumption of Mary.  Personally, this is one of my favorite Marian feast days.  I like to imagine Mary being pulled up into heaven as if carried on an invisible elevator.  Angels play their trumpets announcing to everyone in heaven, "The Blessed Mother is coming!  Alleluia!  Our Queen is here!"  The angels drape her in clothing made out of gold as a crown of twelve stars is placed on her head.  The gold is brilliant and shiny.  Nothing like we see here on earth.  As Mary enters heaven, she is greeted by her only Son!  They warmly embrace each other as the entire universe celebrates.

Before I became Catholic, I didn't pay much attention to Mary. I only thought of Mary around Christmas time as part of the manger scene.  Then as my love for the Catholic Church grew I finally realized that we cannot exclude Mary.  Her role as the mother of our Lord, and the spiritual mother of each one of us, is substantial.  We miss so much of our Christian faith if we exclude Mary.  

I encourage all Catholics to display an image of Our Blessed Mother in their homes or wear a Miraculous medal around their necks.  We should pray the rosary daily and set aside time out of our day to thank Mary for saying "Yes!"   Maybe consider going through the 33 Days of Consecration of Jesus through Mary or consider registering for a Rosary Confraternity.  Give Our Blessed Mother the recognition she deserves.

Saint Pope John Paul II wrote:

"Today the liturgy invites us to contemplate Mary, taken up body and soul into heaven. By a special privilege, she was enriched by divine grace from the moment of her conception, and Christ, who ascended to the right hand of the Father, opened the doors of his kingdom to her, first among human creatures. Now from heaven, where the Queen of the angels and saints is crowned, the Mother of God and of the Church is close to the Christian people before whom she shines as the “new and immaculate woman (who) mediated for the guilt of the first woman.”  

Mary, Queen of Heaven, Pray for Us!

-J.

Share God with a Friend

Memorial of Saint Dominic, Priest

(Click Here for Readings)

Moses said to the people: “Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone! Therefore, you shall love the LORD, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. Take to heart these words which I enjoin on you today. Drill them into your children. Speak of them at home and abroad, whether you are busy or at rest. Bind them at your wrist as a sign and let them be as a pendant on your forehead. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates."

One afternoon while in the check-out line at Target, I noticed a clever marketing campaign.  A small cardboard tower displayed bottles of Coke Zero.  Written on the label of each bottle were the words "Share a Coke with [A Name]."  I like personalized stuff, so I sorted through the bottles looking for the name Jennifer.  Sadly, I came up bottle empty! Either nobody wants to share a Coke with me or Jennifer just so happens to be one of the most popular girl names in the English language! My disappointment didn't last long when I discovered an even cooler name: Share a Coke Zero with Dominic.  Since I am a new Lay member of the Dominican family, the name "Dominic" is quite special.  I took a photo with my smartphone and posted it on our group's Facebook page.  Several "likes" followed. 

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Dominic de Guzman, founder of the Order of Preachers.  He was known for his good nature, joy, wisdom, piety, and miracles.  In the 13th century, Saint Dominic recognized the urgent need  to combat the Albigensian heresy rampant in France and Italy. He educated and reformed several communities of religious women as one of his first apostolic works. Because most priests and monks lived in monasteries, the idea of the itinerant (traveling preacher) caused quite a bit of controversy. Along with the preaching, Dominic encouraged the friars to pray the Divine Office and undergo rigorous study in doctrine and scripture as part of formation.  As a result, Dominicans became known as an intellectual order, often associated with universities..  The Truth (Veritas) was best proclaimed armed with knowledge.

In modern day, Saint Dominic would be considered quite an eccentric.  He walked from town to town, carrying with him the Book of Matthew and the Letters of Saint Paul.  He preferred to walk on bare feet as a form of penance.  Those who traveled with Dominic recalled how he often sang hymns while on the road.  At night he spent many hours in prayer. Dominican brothers and sisters often found him asleep anywhere in the church except in his bed.  As for meals, he refused to eat meat and fasted regularly.  Saint Dominic is best known for his Nine Ways of Prayer and the early devotion to the most Holy Rosary.

I can write on and on about Saint Dominic, however, for sake of brevity, I encourage blog followers to read further about his life.  Much of what is known about him comes from interviews taken during his canonization process.  Unfortunately, Dominic left very few written records.  He was too busy preaching, walking and praying!

The Order of Preachers will be celebrating their 800 year Jubilee beginning in November 2015 through the early part of 2017.  It's an exciting time for the Dominican family with lots of events planned.  In fact, I will be traveling to Rome in February 2016 to see some of the sites related to Saint Dominic.  I'll be staying at one of the very first convents Saint Dominic reformed. I plan to blog about my pilgrimage.  Stay tuned.

We can share a Coke with a friend.  However, it's much better to share God with a friend.  Who needs a bunch of empty calories and artificial sweeteners when we can can nourish our bodies with the divine sweetness of Jesus Christ!  Saint Dominic loved to preach the word of God and spread the good news. We can do the same thing if we put our hearts, minds, and strength to the task!

"A man who governs his passions is master of his world.  We must either command them or be enslaved by them.  It is better to be a hammer than an anvil" - Saint Dominic

 -J.

You Can't Always Have What You Want!

Memorial of Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

(Click Here for Readings)

Now Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.”

One Saturday morning I stopped by Costco to buy mega rolls of paper products.  As I wheeled my bulky cart toward the exit, I came across a boy throwing a fit in the food court.  He sat on the concrete floor stomping his feet as tears streamed down his red face.  He whined and cried out: "Mom, I want cheese sticks!  Why can't I have them?  Waaaah!"  Not surprising, his mom just stood with her eyes glued to her cell phone, ignoring her son. Perhaps she was Google searching "How to stop my child from throwing a fit" or texting a friend for advice. Highly unlikely....

 Did the other Costco customers find this kid as disturbing as I did? Maybe similar thoughts entered their minds: What is wrong with you, Lady? Put down your silly cell phone, pick up your kid, and get out of here now! Your little boy needs a spanking, time out, or something! We'd like to enjoy our dining and shopping experience here in Costco-land without kiddie drama, thank you very much!

Is it just me or does today's society produce record numbers of clueless people?  Everywhere I go I see children, and adults alike, acting inconsiderate, ignorant, or just plain indifferent....

I'd like to kindly throw out this reminder:  You can't always have what you want!  Keep not-giving-a-flip about other people. Keep living your head up in the clouds. Keep acting like a jerk.  Keep pitching that fit.  Keep demanding things your way. The results you want may never meet your expectations.

By now, most Americans are aware of the Planned Parenthood Exposed videos released by The Center for Medical Progress.  I've watched each video in utter repulsion.  I won't go into the gory details, but selling aborted fetal parts in a black market scheme is way beyond safe reproductive healthcare.  Clearly, PP thinks they can continue to have what they want -- tax payer funds under the shadows of secrecy and controversy; a powerful lobbying force that kills for profit without a care. God willing, Planned Parenthood will go down as the Truth of their shady operations become more visible.

In today's gospel reading, John the Baptist is arrested for saying quite matter-of-factly that King Herod has no right to his brother's wife.  Yet, Herod doesn't want to hear the word No! How dare this "wild man" of a prophet who eats honey and locusts tell him what he cannot have!  In the ultimate plot of revenge, John's head is cut off and delivered on a platter.  Problem solved.... However, an unwelcome side effect looms; he will always have the blood of a martyr stained on his conscience.

Is getting what you want going to make you any happier?  What if you turned away from your own selfish desires and asked God what He desires best for your livelihood?

Saint Alphonsus Liguori, whose feast day we celebrate today, wrote the following: 

"Our Savior says, if you have not received the graces that you desire, do not complain to me, but blame yourself, because you have neglected to seek them from me." 

Wow, such powerful morsels of wisdom!  The next time we shuffle out the selfish card and think that I can have whatever I want, think again.  If it's something unhealthy for us or will put us into a state of mortal sin, it's probably best that it doesn't happen.  Those times when we do unfortunately lack something that is meaningful for us, remember that the Lord has something else better planned.  

I'll conclude with another quote from Saint Alphonsus worthy of reflection:

"If you wish to strengthen your confidence in God still more, often recall the loving way in which He has acted toward you, and how mercifully He has tried to bring you out of your sinful life, to break your attachment to the things of earth and draw you to His love."

Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Pray for Us!

-J.

Keeping Vigil

Saturday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

At the end of four hundred and thirty years, all the hosts of the Lord left the land of Egypt on this very date.  This was a night of Vigil for the Lord , as he led them out of the land of Egypt; so on this same night all the children of Israel must keep a vigil for the Lord throughout their generations.

 I've read this passage from the Book of Exodus numerous times, yet the word "vigil" never jumped off the page until now.  So many thoughts come to mind....

Traditionally, Catholics celebrate Saturday evening Vigil masses. We attend candlelight vigils in honor of the deceased, or we pray as a candle-holding community for social causes.

Parents know all too well the late night "vigil" as they wait for a teen who drags in way past curfew. A son or daughter sneaks in the backdoor. Uh oh!  The living room lamp is on and an angry father sits on the couch with his arms crossed.  Oops, I forgot all about the curfew, Dad! 

A little boy reminds his mom to turn on the nightlight right before bedtime. In an imaginative vigil, he waits for his favorite Super Hero to arrive and destroy the evil Boogie Man hiding in the closet!

Remember the Bic lighter everybody used to carry to a rock concert?  Now replaced by the mobile phone's glowing screen, hundreds of fans wave their phones in the air whistling and yelling.  Encore!  We want to hear an encore! Come back out and sing to us some more!

We cannot forget the lighthouse which seafarers rely on for navigation.  The swirling light is seen for miles away in dense fog, successfully alerting ships before they crash onto land.  

Keeping vigil shines a light source in the darkness; keeping vigil consists of waiting, preparing, and protecting.  We anticipate something good arriving or fear something bad occurring.  Other times, lamentations swell our hearts as we mourn the tragic loss of a group of loved ones.

The most familiar vigil scene in the bible is when the maidens keep their oil lamps lit anxiously awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom.  Unfortunately, a few maidens did not carry along enough oil.  They were ill-prepared so naturally their lamps burned out.  Their vigil abruptly ended.  They are left out of the celebration in the presence of the bridegroom....We know the bridegroom represents Jesus Christ himself.  

All children of Israel must keep vigil for the Lord throughout their generations.  Are we doing this in modern day?  Are we preparing our hearts, minds and souls for the second coming of the Lord?  Are we doing all we can to brighten our lives so that others see the shining light of Christ in us?  Are we protecting and helping others who struggle with darkness?

Light a candle.  Say a prayer.  Patiently wait.  Prepare for eternal rewards.  Keep Christ close to your heart!  

"I believe in God - not in a Catholic God; there is no Catholic God. There is God, and I believe in Jesus Christ, his incarnation. Jesus is my teacher and my pastor, but God, the Father, Abba, is the light and the Creator. This is my Being." - Pope Francis

-J.
 

Secrets Revealed

Memorial of Saint Benedict, Abbot

(Click Here for Readings)

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


Do you harbor a deep dark secret nobody knows about?  Is this secret eating away at you like a bleeding ulcer leaving you irritable, nervous, and restless?  What would it feel like to let go of the secret, receiving the Lord's healing mercy and forgiveness?

Secrets Revealed   Recently, I watched a TED Talk by Frank Warren who in 2005 began a community mail art project called Post Secret.  As part of the project, people send "anonymous" postcards sharing their most intimate secrets.  No censorship is placed on the content although people are asked to tell the truth.   Every Sunday, Frank posts 10 new secrets on his website.  I've monitored the site for the past couple of months and find the posts very interesting.  Some secrets display humor while others jaw-dropping seriousness.  Secrets can be downright repulsive at times, leaving me scratching my head wondering the sanity of the person holding the secret.  What I find most intriguing is the raw honesty behind the postcards. Some of the "revelations" are quite thought-provoking. They prove how human beings are all "wounded" in one way or another. We have strange hang-ups and "hiccups"that people may even relate to.  Yet,  God still loves his children regardless of the "secrets" revealed under the anonymity of snail mail or the Internet.

Every now and then a postcard appears with a religious flair. Here are a few examples which make me think "Hmmm..."

"I've been an atheist for years but sometimes I miss church.  Tell your God I said "Hi."

"I wish God missed me...Like I miss him."

"I am proud to say I am well on my way to becoming the adult I prayed for as a kid."

"Working in a funeral home has made me appreciate my own life."

I read the posts from writers who wrestle with God. I often wonder what happened in their lives which made them turn away from religion in general. Did they suffer abuse or neglect?  Did they grow up in a family who didn't believe in God?  Do they hold a lot of guilt and anger?  I find "secrets" relating to atheism to be particularly insightful.  Sadly, I have more questions than answers.

Jesus' Secrets to Ministry    Jesus reveals to his disciples what I like to think of as useful "secrets" to effective ministry.  The Apostles are being taught what it means to be a teacher and a disciple.  Jesus tells them not to be afraid. People will doubt and ridicule.  People won't always be willing to listen to the good news.  People will harbor secrets in the recesses of their hearts.  Even Christ will tell the Apostles advice "undercover" that will ultimately need to be shared with others in compassionate ways.

God knows all of our "secrets" even when we do not openly share them.  I find secrets often relate closely to sin.  We naturally want to stick our hands in the sand and run away when we've done something wrong.  The best way for secrets to be revealed is through the Sacrament of Confession.  Through the privacy of a priest, we can let go of our sin and receive forgiveness.  We don't necessarily have to resort to sending an anonymous postcard in the mail to confess a secret bothering our conscience.

If a long time has lapsed, perhaps it's time to make an appointment with Christ in the confessional.

Saint Benedict, Pray for Us!

"Isn't it astonishing that all these secrets have been preserved for so many years just so we could discover them!"  -Orville Wright

-J.