Numbers 21: 4-9, Psalm 102: 2-3, 16-18, 19-21, John 8: 21-30
Today’s readings are a remarkable reminder that God’s love and message are as true today as they were in Christ’s time on Earth. One important theme resonates through the readings and seems to speak directly to me. That is, in times of distress it is easy to lose faith in God, question why or not believe – but God is living, and loving and your trust in Him will bring you salvation. Sadly, many of us, especially in times of trouble or worry, lose sight of the priceless gift Christ offers, by focusing only on the here and now, and missing out on what is most valuable – trust, faith, and an eternal life with God.
As of this writing I find myself unemployed in very trying economic times. To make matters worse, it is the third time in five years this has happened to me – and I am the sole provider for my family of four. For reasons beyond my control, my career and family life have been thrown into turmoil. Stress, anxiety, short tempers, a challenging home life, and a bleeding ulcer are now par for the course. It could be very easy for me to lose faith, not trust, and even blame the Lord for the current situation. I’m a faithful parishioner, Lector, and Christian – why is this happening?
However, just like the lesson we learn with the Bronze Snake in Numbers 21, my faith and belief in God will see me through. The snake on the pole is symbolic of Jesus’ death on the Cross – I need only to look upon it and believe, and I am saved by God’s love. I put my faith in God, and truly believe (as I have the past two times this happened) that God has a plan for me. I may not know it, or see it, but I believe it. And that revelation will get me, and anyone else who believes, through times of need. Have faith.
God bless you,
Fred Cecala: husband, father, son, Lector, coach, and faithful believer
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
March 30th, Monday, Fifth Week of Lent
Daniel 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62, Psalm 23: 1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6, John 8: 1-11
One way I make a connection to the Bible readings is when I relate to the individuals in the scriptures – some good and others not so good.
In today’s reading from Daniel 13 there is a host of characters that at one time or another I can relate to, although I hate to admit it.
When I feel persecuted and sorry for myself I relate to Susanna who falls at the mercy of the accusing elders. The two elders reminds me of the times I hide my own short comings by bring attention to the faults of someone else.
The group of relatives reminds me of times when I sit on the sidelines, feeling hurt or depressed by what is happening, yet not having enough nerve to act on what I know is right. I fear the conflict or the inconvenience that taking action might impose on me.
There are times – maybe not enough, that I relate to Daniel – becoming involved either by sticking my neck out for what I believe is right or taking the time to help others not as fortunate.
In John 8: 1-11, I recognize that it is easy to follow the crowd as it moves together against one individual - easy prey. However, Jesus reminds me that I need to look inward at my own sins before I start “throwing stones” We all sin, but it is comforting having the Lord say “Neither do I commend you.”
As I struggle through life at times, trying to make sense of all that is thrown at me, Psalm 23:1-6 reminds me that God wants a close relationship. He wants to be a part of the difficult decisions I make and “guide me along the right path”. He gives me reassurance “for you are at my side; your rod and staff give me courage”. It doesn’t make a difference to Him what character I resemble.
Mark Roach, husband, father of 4
One way I make a connection to the Bible readings is when I relate to the individuals in the scriptures – some good and others not so good.
In today’s reading from Daniel 13 there is a host of characters that at one time or another I can relate to, although I hate to admit it.
When I feel persecuted and sorry for myself I relate to Susanna who falls at the mercy of the accusing elders. The two elders reminds me of the times I hide my own short comings by bring attention to the faults of someone else.
The group of relatives reminds me of times when I sit on the sidelines, feeling hurt or depressed by what is happening, yet not having enough nerve to act on what I know is right. I fear the conflict or the inconvenience that taking action might impose on me.
There are times – maybe not enough, that I relate to Daniel – becoming involved either by sticking my neck out for what I believe is right or taking the time to help others not as fortunate.
In John 8: 1-11, I recognize that it is easy to follow the crowd as it moves together against one individual - easy prey. However, Jesus reminds me that I need to look inward at my own sins before I start “throwing stones” We all sin, but it is comforting having the Lord say “Neither do I commend you.”
As I struggle through life at times, trying to make sense of all that is thrown at me, Psalm 23:1-6 reminds me that God wants a close relationship. He wants to be a part of the difficult decisions I make and “guide me along the right path”. He gives me reassurance “for you are at my side; your rod and staff give me courage”. It doesn’t make a difference to Him what character I resemble.
Mark Roach, husband, father of 4
Sunday, March 29, 2009
March 29th, Sunday, Fifth Week of Lent
Jeremiah 31: 31-34, Psalm 51: 3-4, 12-13, 14-15 (12a), Hebrews 5: 7-9, John 12: 20-33
Each of today’s readings seems to lay the groundwork for the one to follow. In Jeremiah the Lord promises a new covenant with his people. Unlike the more paternalistic covenant of old, the new way places the law of God within our hearts so that we have knowledge of the ways of the Lord, are forgiven our trespasses, and can move forward in our lives without the burden of former sin weighing us down. For me it is a message of hope, knowing that it is within my power to lead a good life. It reminds me of the transition from my childhood acceptance of God to a more adult faith driven relationship with God in my life.
Psalm 51 sings of this awakening from my childlike behaviors to the realization of my adult responsibilities. Goodness knows I may have gone down the wrong path but I now realize the folly of my ways and ask for God’s forgiveness and help. Wash me, cleanse me and instill in me a willing and steady heart. No matter where I’ve been or what I have done, I can repent. I can grow and learn from every experience and try to help others I encounter along the way. I can do God’s will.
In the Hebrews reading and in John’s gospel, we learn that even Jesus, in his human state, was fearful and quite reluctant to proceed to his death. God knows it is hard for us to follow His ways sometimes, yet Jesus sets forth for us the perfect form of obedience. It is in His acquiescence to His Father’s will, that he suffer and die, so that “He was made perfect, and He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him.” This is why He became man. The grain of wheat must first die in order to deliver on its potential to bear great fruit.
Likewise, I may not know the reason why I am here at this place right now but I know that God knows. Hard as it may seem at times, especially when I am in one of those bumpy periods in my life, I know that it is when I let go and let God, when I fervently pray, “Thy will be done”, that the way suddenly becomes apparent. As the song says, “Lead me; guide me along the way, for if You lead me I cannot stray.” My Lord will never take me down a path that leads me astray. And reluctant as I may be to release an old habit, walk away from a cherished but detrimental pastime or move forward into some unknown territory, it sometimes takes the death of these seeds to make way for the wonderful blossoming of opportunity that the future offers and my Lord has intended for me.
Stephanie Kenny, wife of Larry, mother to Alice and Katie, volunteer
Each of today’s readings seems to lay the groundwork for the one to follow. In Jeremiah the Lord promises a new covenant with his people. Unlike the more paternalistic covenant of old, the new way places the law of God within our hearts so that we have knowledge of the ways of the Lord, are forgiven our trespasses, and can move forward in our lives without the burden of former sin weighing us down. For me it is a message of hope, knowing that it is within my power to lead a good life. It reminds me of the transition from my childhood acceptance of God to a more adult faith driven relationship with God in my life.
Psalm 51 sings of this awakening from my childlike behaviors to the realization of my adult responsibilities. Goodness knows I may have gone down the wrong path but I now realize the folly of my ways and ask for God’s forgiveness and help. Wash me, cleanse me and instill in me a willing and steady heart. No matter where I’ve been or what I have done, I can repent. I can grow and learn from every experience and try to help others I encounter along the way. I can do God’s will.
In the Hebrews reading and in John’s gospel, we learn that even Jesus, in his human state, was fearful and quite reluctant to proceed to his death. God knows it is hard for us to follow His ways sometimes, yet Jesus sets forth for us the perfect form of obedience. It is in His acquiescence to His Father’s will, that he suffer and die, so that “He was made perfect, and He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him.” This is why He became man. The grain of wheat must first die in order to deliver on its potential to bear great fruit.
Likewise, I may not know the reason why I am here at this place right now but I know that God knows. Hard as it may seem at times, especially when I am in one of those bumpy periods in my life, I know that it is when I let go and let God, when I fervently pray, “Thy will be done”, that the way suddenly becomes apparent. As the song says, “Lead me; guide me along the way, for if You lead me I cannot stray.” My Lord will never take me down a path that leads me astray. And reluctant as I may be to release an old habit, walk away from a cherished but detrimental pastime or move forward into some unknown territory, it sometimes takes the death of these seeds to make way for the wonderful blossoming of opportunity that the future offers and my Lord has intended for me.
Stephanie Kenny, wife of Larry, mother to Alice and Katie, volunteer
Saturday, March 28, 2009
March 28th, Saturday, Fourth Week of Lent
Jeremiah 11: 18-20, Psalm 7: 2-3, 9bc-10, 11-12, John 7: 40-53
The gospel today reminds us that Jesus was a charismatic speaker who changed the hearts of those who really heard his message (the officers). It also reminds us that there were some people who were so entrenched in the way things had always been that they couldn’t open their eyes to a new way of thinking (the Pharisees). And there were also those who believed Jesus’ message, believed he was the Messiah, but were too afraid to openly say so (Nicodemus). I have to wonder, what group am I in? I think of myself as someone who is open to new ideas and new ways of thinking. I would like to believe that I am so moved by Christ’s message that every choice I make reflects my Christian beliefs, but I think, truthfully, I am more likely to be like Nicodemus -silently routing for Jesus, working behind the scenes for His success, but a little too timid to always speak openly on His behalf.
It reminds me of the anti-bullying training I have had as a teacher. There are usually three groups involved in a bullying situation. There is the bully, there is the bullied, and there is the bystander. I think I am sometimes a faith bystander, getting so caught up in the day to day distractions and unimportant rumblings that I forget to put Christ in the center of my life. I get lazy in my faith and distance myself from Him when He is inconvenient.
There was recently a series of advertisements for an insurance company, and the ending line was, “Everyday there are millions of people who choose to do the right thing.” Choosing to do the right thing is hard sometimes, but I know Christ gives me that opportunity every day. When I choose it, I am always rewarded with the sense of peace that comes from doing the right thing.
Carla Spanier, married to Mark, mother of Patrick and Nicholas
The gospel today reminds us that Jesus was a charismatic speaker who changed the hearts of those who really heard his message (the officers). It also reminds us that there were some people who were so entrenched in the way things had always been that they couldn’t open their eyes to a new way of thinking (the Pharisees). And there were also those who believed Jesus’ message, believed he was the Messiah, but were too afraid to openly say so (Nicodemus). I have to wonder, what group am I in? I think of myself as someone who is open to new ideas and new ways of thinking. I would like to believe that I am so moved by Christ’s message that every choice I make reflects my Christian beliefs, but I think, truthfully, I am more likely to be like Nicodemus -silently routing for Jesus, working behind the scenes for His success, but a little too timid to always speak openly on His behalf.
It reminds me of the anti-bullying training I have had as a teacher. There are usually three groups involved in a bullying situation. There is the bully, there is the bullied, and there is the bystander. I think I am sometimes a faith bystander, getting so caught up in the day to day distractions and unimportant rumblings that I forget to put Christ in the center of my life. I get lazy in my faith and distance myself from Him when He is inconvenient.
There was recently a series of advertisements for an insurance company, and the ending line was, “Everyday there are millions of people who choose to do the right thing.” Choosing to do the right thing is hard sometimes, but I know Christ gives me that opportunity every day. When I choose it, I am always rewarded with the sense of peace that comes from doing the right thing.
Carla Spanier, married to Mark, mother of Patrick and Nicholas
Friday, March 27, 2009
March 27th, Friday, Fourth Week of Lent
Wisdom 2: 1a, 12-22, Psalm 34: 17-18, 19-20, 21 and 23, John 7: 1-2, 10, 25-30
Wisdom 2 suggests life is about the truth and seeing past the facade that often times obscures the truth.
Psalm 34 is much more of a story about the evolution of the human spirit and how we are as humans always evolving to new awareness.
The John 7 story is about growing into the person you want to become and how your role in life is shaped by the circumstances that support it.
This story about Jesus is one that I can relate to because I often find myself called to events or activities that I initially resist. I am either not sure that I have the time or really prepared to fully participate but when I do attend, I wind up grateful for having participated. I have come to the realization that I am not always in charge of how my life unfolds and that there is a certain rhythm that I am drawn into. If I flow with that rhythm I end up experiencing something new and joyful and if I resist then the outcome usually turns out to be less fulfilling than expected. When I trust and allow my life to be divinely directed and see it as being shaped and supported by every day events and circumstances, I open the door for increased spiritual growth and awareness and joy. I do not always know what to expect but when I resist from a place of fear, it compromises my opportunity for joy.
Recently I had the occasion to learn from my children something I thought I understood. It was a momentary work of art, a simple story that my children told me. I was not seeing them for who they were but who they could become if I helped them. When I asked them about it they explained to me simply that they were kids and it was their job to be kids; it was what they do and it was ok. A rather simple statement, but for me the message was profound. As a parent I thought I was here to guide my children but what has become true for me is that if I simply listen to my children they are here to guide me.
David Cole and his wife Eileen live in Mount Prospect and have three children
Wisdom 2 suggests life is about the truth and seeing past the facade that often times obscures the truth.
Psalm 34 is much more of a story about the evolution of the human spirit and how we are as humans always evolving to new awareness.
The John 7 story is about growing into the person you want to become and how your role in life is shaped by the circumstances that support it.
This story about Jesus is one that I can relate to because I often find myself called to events or activities that I initially resist. I am either not sure that I have the time or really prepared to fully participate but when I do attend, I wind up grateful for having participated. I have come to the realization that I am not always in charge of how my life unfolds and that there is a certain rhythm that I am drawn into. If I flow with that rhythm I end up experiencing something new and joyful and if I resist then the outcome usually turns out to be less fulfilling than expected. When I trust and allow my life to be divinely directed and see it as being shaped and supported by every day events and circumstances, I open the door for increased spiritual growth and awareness and joy. I do not always know what to expect but when I resist from a place of fear, it compromises my opportunity for joy.
Recently I had the occasion to learn from my children something I thought I understood. It was a momentary work of art, a simple story that my children told me. I was not seeing them for who they were but who they could become if I helped them. When I asked them about it they explained to me simply that they were kids and it was their job to be kids; it was what they do and it was ok. A rather simple statement, but for me the message was profound. As a parent I thought I was here to guide my children but what has become true for me is that if I simply listen to my children they are here to guide me.
David Cole and his wife Eileen live in Mount Prospect and have three children
Thursday, March 26, 2009
March 26th, Thursday, Fourth Week of Lent
Exodus 32: 7-14, Psalm 106: 19-20, 21-22, 23, John 5: 31-47
Approximately two years ago Father Bernie presented a challenge to the men of Saint Raymond Parish: MAC, Men of Action and Contemplation.
I went to the formation meeting to listen to the presentation. The idea: A group of men would meet at a prescribed time and location on a regular basis to read and discuss Scripture passages using a book called ACTION by Mark Link S.J. It is a contemporary look at Scriptures in a daily format. We now use VISIONS also by Link.
I had not done anything like this and thought that it would be good for me to try it out, I am retired and my involvement with the Church is going to mass on Sunday.
We started out with five of us in the group, it is now six. We meet once a week for one hour. We read the passages beforehand to be prepared to discuss them. This experience has opened me to an awareness of God in my life. He manifests Himself through the men in the group. We have become friends who care for each other and our families.
I see Jesus in a whole new way, I have grown closer to Him, I have learned to talk with Him, to thank Him for Today. I feel He understands my concerns for my self, my family, the choices I have made, in my life.
I am a cradle Catholic so all this was handed to me. It's great now to have rediscovered Jesus In my life, as someone I have actually looked for and prayed for.
I enjoy this program and feel it is helping me to become the person God meant me to be.
Bill Gordon, married to Joan, three children
Approximately two years ago Father Bernie presented a challenge to the men of Saint Raymond Parish: MAC, Men of Action and Contemplation.
I went to the formation meeting to listen to the presentation. The idea: A group of men would meet at a prescribed time and location on a regular basis to read and discuss Scripture passages using a book called ACTION by Mark Link S.J. It is a contemporary look at Scriptures in a daily format. We now use VISIONS also by Link.
I had not done anything like this and thought that it would be good for me to try it out, I am retired and my involvement with the Church is going to mass on Sunday.
We started out with five of us in the group, it is now six. We meet once a week for one hour. We read the passages beforehand to be prepared to discuss them. This experience has opened me to an awareness of God in my life. He manifests Himself through the men in the group. We have become friends who care for each other and our families.
I see Jesus in a whole new way, I have grown closer to Him, I have learned to talk with Him, to thank Him for Today. I feel He understands my concerns for my self, my family, the choices I have made, in my life.
I am a cradle Catholic so all this was handed to me. It's great now to have rediscovered Jesus In my life, as someone I have actually looked for and prayed for.
I enjoy this program and feel it is helping me to become the person God meant me to be.
Bill Gordon, married to Joan, three children
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
March 25th, Wednesday, Fourth Week of Lent
Isaiah 7: 10-14; 8: 10, Psalm 40: 7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 11, Hebrews 10: 4-10, Luke 1: 26-38
“I say ‘yes’ my Lord…. In all the good times, through all the bad times, I say ‘yes’ my Lord to every word you speak.”
Mary shows us, in today’s Gospel, what we are all called to be – to make God visible by the way we live. St. Francis of Assisi once said that we are the only gospel many people will ever read. It is equally true that we may be the only image of God some people will ever know. How awesome to think that God trusts me to help carry out his plan in making him alive in the lives of others!
Mary had complete freedom to accept or to refuse God’s call. I’m sure she, too, was frightened and felt herself unworthy or incapable of carrying out His plan. Although frightened, she said “yes”, not knowing what the future would hold. She freely agreed to God’s invitation.
God has a plan for each of us, too. For us, as with Mary, that plan depends on us saying “yes”. His invitation is given with the same freedom to accept or to refuse. Without our “yes” Christ cannot become part of our lives and, perhaps, the lives of others. With confidence, we must remember what the angel told Mary, as he tells us, – The Holy Spirit will come upon us and the power of the Most High will overshadow us.
How do I reflect the image of God by the way I live? How open am I to this invitation?
Lord, teach me to be humble, and with the psalmist respond “I come to do your will”.
Joan Dowling, wife, mother, retired educator
“I say ‘yes’ my Lord…. In all the good times, through all the bad times, I say ‘yes’ my Lord to every word you speak.”
Mary shows us, in today’s Gospel, what we are all called to be – to make God visible by the way we live. St. Francis of Assisi once said that we are the only gospel many people will ever read. It is equally true that we may be the only image of God some people will ever know. How awesome to think that God trusts me to help carry out his plan in making him alive in the lives of others!
Mary had complete freedom to accept or to refuse God’s call. I’m sure she, too, was frightened and felt herself unworthy or incapable of carrying out His plan. Although frightened, she said “yes”, not knowing what the future would hold. She freely agreed to God’s invitation.
God has a plan for each of us, too. For us, as with Mary, that plan depends on us saying “yes”. His invitation is given with the same freedom to accept or to refuse. Without our “yes” Christ cannot become part of our lives and, perhaps, the lives of others. With confidence, we must remember what the angel told Mary, as he tells us, – The Holy Spirit will come upon us and the power of the Most High will overshadow us.
How do I reflect the image of God by the way I live? How open am I to this invitation?
Lord, teach me to be humble, and with the psalmist respond “I come to do your will”.
Joan Dowling, wife, mother, retired educator
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
March 24th, Tuesday, Fourth Week of Lent
Ezekiel 47: 1-9, 12, Psalm 46: 2-3, 5-6, 8-9, John 5: 1-16
Up along the mountainside was a Stations of the Cross that spanned almost 5 kilometers. As a six year-old, I couldn’t make it to the first Station without being carried. The path was paved, but the uphill climb and the Philippine heat was brutal.
Near the fifth Station, my grandfather and I came across an elderly woman walking on her knees. As we approached, I noticed the trail of blood she was leaving behind. I stared at her over my grandfather’s shoulders as we passed by. She prayed as she continued to put one knee in front of the other.
At one of the Stations, we stopped for an extended rest. Through the heat rising from the pavement, I watched the shimmering Station image of Jesus being stripped of his garments. When the day finally began to cool, we continued.
The woman must have passed us by. She was at the medical hut beyond the last Station. She held up her skirt, Rosary clutched in hand, while a nurse cleaned her knees.
Every Lent, I remember and ask the question – Why did this woman do this?
Like Ezekiel being lead into deeper and deeper waters of the river, my question evolved over the years as I probed for a deeper understanding. At first I asked, “What great sin did this woman commit that she must repent in this way?” As I grew older, the question became, “What great need did she have that she must beg in this way?” More recently, the question grew into, “What great love this woman has, to persist through pain to show her devotion to God! How do I find that level of devotion in me?”
On his journey downriver, Ezekiel sees the richness of life increase as the water deepens. In my life, how rich a life can I imagine as my faith deepens?
Al Moreno, husband to Suzanne, father to Charlie and Faith
Up along the mountainside was a Stations of the Cross that spanned almost 5 kilometers. As a six year-old, I couldn’t make it to the first Station without being carried. The path was paved, but the uphill climb and the Philippine heat was brutal.
Near the fifth Station, my grandfather and I came across an elderly woman walking on her knees. As we approached, I noticed the trail of blood she was leaving behind. I stared at her over my grandfather’s shoulders as we passed by. She prayed as she continued to put one knee in front of the other.
At one of the Stations, we stopped for an extended rest. Through the heat rising from the pavement, I watched the shimmering Station image of Jesus being stripped of his garments. When the day finally began to cool, we continued.
The woman must have passed us by. She was at the medical hut beyond the last Station. She held up her skirt, Rosary clutched in hand, while a nurse cleaned her knees.
Every Lent, I remember and ask the question – Why did this woman do this?
Like Ezekiel being lead into deeper and deeper waters of the river, my question evolved over the years as I probed for a deeper understanding. At first I asked, “What great sin did this woman commit that she must repent in this way?” As I grew older, the question became, “What great need did she have that she must beg in this way?” More recently, the question grew into, “What great love this woman has, to persist through pain to show her devotion to God! How do I find that level of devotion in me?”
On his journey downriver, Ezekiel sees the richness of life increase as the water deepens. In my life, how rich a life can I imagine as my faith deepens?
Al Moreno, husband to Suzanne, father to Charlie and Faith
Monday, March 23, 2009
March 23rd, Monday, Fourth Week of Lent
Isaiah 65: 17-21, Psalm 30: 2 and 4, 5-6, 11-12a and 13b, John 4: 43-54
Today’s reading in Isaiah joyously explains how God is about to create a New Hope for his people. He promises them a new vision of the future where all who work to build or plant shall long enjoy the work of their hands. No longer will their efforts go unrewarded. God wants his people to be glad and rejoice forever in what he is creating.
Isaiah’s New Hope prophecy is fulfilled in John’s reading. “The Galileans welcome Jesus, since they had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the festival; for they too had gone to the festival.” The royal official had not seen and only heard of Jesus’ deeds. He begged Jesus to heal his son. Jesus was moved, and said to him, “Go; your son will live.” The man believed, and his son was saved.
I’m writing this reflection on the day that President Obama was sworn into office. As an American, I’m very proud of what this day represented. It was only forty years ago that Dr. Martin Luther King was offering his new vision of hope to the black community. “A day will come when you will be judged not by the color of your skin, but by the content of your character.” We like the Galileans, welcome President Obama as our 44th President and rejoice to the fulfillment of promises foretold. But, when your belief is tested and you don’t have the luxury of witnessing your fulfillment, will you, like the royal official, take it on faith.
Reflection question:
How convinced am I that God has a plan for me and wants to make me into something special in spite of my flaws.
David and Colleen Sztuk, Project Manager/Account Specialist, happily married for 20 years and proud parents of Katie (14) and Melissa (12)
Today’s reading in Isaiah joyously explains how God is about to create a New Hope for his people. He promises them a new vision of the future where all who work to build or plant shall long enjoy the work of their hands. No longer will their efforts go unrewarded. God wants his people to be glad and rejoice forever in what he is creating.
Isaiah’s New Hope prophecy is fulfilled in John’s reading. “The Galileans welcome Jesus, since they had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the festival; for they too had gone to the festival.” The royal official had not seen and only heard of Jesus’ deeds. He begged Jesus to heal his son. Jesus was moved, and said to him, “Go; your son will live.” The man believed, and his son was saved.
I’m writing this reflection on the day that President Obama was sworn into office. As an American, I’m very proud of what this day represented. It was only forty years ago that Dr. Martin Luther King was offering his new vision of hope to the black community. “A day will come when you will be judged not by the color of your skin, but by the content of your character.” We like the Galileans, welcome President Obama as our 44th President and rejoice to the fulfillment of promises foretold. But, when your belief is tested and you don’t have the luxury of witnessing your fulfillment, will you, like the royal official, take it on faith.
Reflection question:
How convinced am I that God has a plan for me and wants to make me into something special in spite of my flaws.
David and Colleen Sztuk, Project Manager/Account Specialist, happily married for 20 years and proud parents of Katie (14) and Melissa (12)
Sunday, March 22, 2009
March 22nd, Sunday, Fourth Week of Lent
2 Chronicles 36: 14-16, 19-23, Psalm 137: 1-2, 3, 4-5, 6 (6ab), Ephesians 2: 4-10, John 3: 14-21
After reading the Scripture selections for this Sunday, I struggled with the reflection I had been asked to prepare.
The verse from John’s gospel “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son…” kept repeating itself in my mind. As a parent and a grandparent, my children and grandchildren are in my thoughts and prayers daily. The comparison has been made that the love a mother has for her children is a small measure of the love that God has for each of us. And how often at various public gatherings and sporting events have I seen the verse “John 3:16” held up for all to see. I have heard and read this verse many, many times, and guess I took this love for granted.
One day at Liturgy, as I was praying for my children, I looked up at the crucified Jesus, and this verse from John’s Gospel seemed to come alive in my mind. I questioned, could I as a parent knowingly give one of my “beloved” children to suffer, much less die for anyone else? And yet that is exactly what our loving God did for me and each one of us. I believe at that moment, as never before, I was able to put my mind and heart around this great, never-ending love of our God, who gave His only Son for us, and that we are all saved, not only by the death, but by the life and ministry of Jesus.
Kathy Hemler, wife, mother of 4, grandmother of 8
After reading the Scripture selections for this Sunday, I struggled with the reflection I had been asked to prepare.
The verse from John’s gospel “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son…” kept repeating itself in my mind. As a parent and a grandparent, my children and grandchildren are in my thoughts and prayers daily. The comparison has been made that the love a mother has for her children is a small measure of the love that God has for each of us. And how often at various public gatherings and sporting events have I seen the verse “John 3:16” held up for all to see. I have heard and read this verse many, many times, and guess I took this love for granted.
One day at Liturgy, as I was praying for my children, I looked up at the crucified Jesus, and this verse from John’s Gospel seemed to come alive in my mind. I questioned, could I as a parent knowingly give one of my “beloved” children to suffer, much less die for anyone else? And yet that is exactly what our loving God did for me and each one of us. I believe at that moment, as never before, I was able to put my mind and heart around this great, never-ending love of our God, who gave His only Son for us, and that we are all saved, not only by the death, but by the life and ministry of Jesus.
Kathy Hemler, wife, mother of 4, grandmother of 8
Saturday, March 21, 2009
March 21st, Saturday, Third Week of Lent
Hosea 6: 1-6, Psalm 51: 3-4, 18-19, 20-21ab, Luke 18: 9-14
Today’s three readings reaffirm the vital fact that the first step in recognizing God is to stop looking at ourselves and turn towards Him in humility and recognition of our shortcomings and flaws. In Luke’s gospel the humility in the prayer of the tax collector contrasts vividly with the pride and self-righteousness of the Pharisee. Without recognizing and asking for God’s love and mercy and shifting our focus from ourselves to Him and to our neighbors, our efforts and deeds are shallow and self-serving at best and hypocritical at worst.
It is one thing to read this lesson in humility and selflessness in Scriptures. The lasting lesson is seeing it in practice. When I think of people in my life who were examples of that kind of selflessness, I think of my grandmother and her brother Andrew who was a grandfather to me in my childhood.
I can’t point to any single momentous, dramatic act of sacrifice and love from them. I do remember, with warm affection, that in all their daily interactions with my sisters and me, they focused their love and attention on each of us, giving freely of their time, energy, and interest. I remember Grandmother teaching me how to bake bread and sharing stories about her childhood in Hungary. Uncle Andrew played gin rummy with me for hours on Sundays and took me fishing on summer weekends. And both of them would always listen with real interest to our stories and answer our questions with patience, wisdom, and generosity.
In the simple love and daily kindness of my grandmother and Uncle Andrew, I saw how God wants me to stop centering on myself and rather to turn to Him in humility and selflessness. And in that focus on Him rather than me, He challenges me to show His Love to all the people in my daily life.
Stephen Gonczy, husband, father of one daughter, brother of three sisters
Today’s three readings reaffirm the vital fact that the first step in recognizing God is to stop looking at ourselves and turn towards Him in humility and recognition of our shortcomings and flaws. In Luke’s gospel the humility in the prayer of the tax collector contrasts vividly with the pride and self-righteousness of the Pharisee. Without recognizing and asking for God’s love and mercy and shifting our focus from ourselves to Him and to our neighbors, our efforts and deeds are shallow and self-serving at best and hypocritical at worst.
It is one thing to read this lesson in humility and selflessness in Scriptures. The lasting lesson is seeing it in practice. When I think of people in my life who were examples of that kind of selflessness, I think of my grandmother and her brother Andrew who was a grandfather to me in my childhood.
I can’t point to any single momentous, dramatic act of sacrifice and love from them. I do remember, with warm affection, that in all their daily interactions with my sisters and me, they focused their love and attention on each of us, giving freely of their time, energy, and interest. I remember Grandmother teaching me how to bake bread and sharing stories about her childhood in Hungary. Uncle Andrew played gin rummy with me for hours on Sundays and took me fishing on summer weekends. And both of them would always listen with real interest to our stories and answer our questions with patience, wisdom, and generosity.
In the simple love and daily kindness of my grandmother and Uncle Andrew, I saw how God wants me to stop centering on myself and rather to turn to Him in humility and selflessness. And in that focus on Him rather than me, He challenges me to show His Love to all the people in my daily life.
Stephen Gonczy, husband, father of one daughter, brother of three sisters
Friday, March 20, 2009
March 20th, Friday, Third Week of Lent
Hosea 14: 2-10, Psalm 81: 6c-8a, 8bc-9, 10-11ab, 14 and 17, Mark 12: 28-34
Love your neighbor as you love yourself. This is a simple yet complicated task. The simple part is in loving the neighbors I know. I suspect that in Jesus' eyes this would be considered a good start. As we all know from the gospel stories, Jesus likes to push the envelope, so to speak. When he said "neighbors" he meant all mankind, not just the neighbors we know and like. It's a pretty tall order. Needless to say, this is where I feel the task gets complicated. How can I love and respect someone I don't know or better yet, don't want to know? How do I love and respect someone whose beliefs and values are not even in the vicinity of being remotely similar to mine? I end up sticking to the simple part - loving the neighbors I know. Of course, I tend to forget that loving my neighbor as I love myself is the second greatest commandment that Jesus speaks of in this gospel story. The first is to love God with all my heart, mind and soul. When my words and actions show that I put God first in my life, I am able to stretch my definition of "neighbor" and show those I don't know, don't like, or those whose beliefs are not quite like mine the love and respect they deserve as children of God.
Sue Baackes, wife and mother of 2
Love your neighbor as you love yourself. This is a simple yet complicated task. The simple part is in loving the neighbors I know. I suspect that in Jesus' eyes this would be considered a good start. As we all know from the gospel stories, Jesus likes to push the envelope, so to speak. When he said "neighbors" he meant all mankind, not just the neighbors we know and like. It's a pretty tall order. Needless to say, this is where I feel the task gets complicated. How can I love and respect someone I don't know or better yet, don't want to know? How do I love and respect someone whose beliefs and values are not even in the vicinity of being remotely similar to mine? I end up sticking to the simple part - loving the neighbors I know. Of course, I tend to forget that loving my neighbor as I love myself is the second greatest commandment that Jesus speaks of in this gospel story. The first is to love God with all my heart, mind and soul. When my words and actions show that I put God first in my life, I am able to stretch my definition of "neighbor" and show those I don't know, don't like, or those whose beliefs are not quite like mine the love and respect they deserve as children of God.
Sue Baackes, wife and mother of 2
Thursday, March 19, 2009
March 19th, Thursday, Third Week of Lent
2 Samuel 7: 4-5a, 12-14a, 16, Psalm 89: 2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29, Romans 4: 13, 16-18, 22, Matthew 1: 16, 18-21, 24a
Today’s readings have a message that weaves itself through each story. The message is about your faithfulness to God and his many blessings. As in Romans “For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants” and in Matthew when Joseph took Mary as his wife based on his faith in the message God sent through an angel.
Many times we are reminded to have faith that things will work out. “Give it to God, he’ll take care of it.” This can be very difficult to accept at times. It is then that I am reminded of the story my parents have shared many times.
In the early 1970’s, my mom was notified that they had won $50.00 in a church raffle. She was overjoyed at the news. With five young children and a sixth on the way, she thought of all the things the money could cover; the doctor bill, special shoes my brother needed etc. She called my dad at work to share the good news. My dad told her not to be so excited, that he had told God if he won the raffle he would donate the money to charity. My mom was disappointed. Her family could use the money, but they donated it with faith that God would provide what they needed. As it turned out, business at the store my parents owned picked up and as the years went by and fifteen children were given to them, the money and resources was always there when they needed it.
Psalm 89: “I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens.”
In what moments of your life have you been called to faithfulness? When have you had to rely on your faith in God to see you through?
Kathleen Ehret, wife, mother of 2
Today’s readings have a message that weaves itself through each story. The message is about your faithfulness to God and his many blessings. As in Romans “For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants” and in Matthew when Joseph took Mary as his wife based on his faith in the message God sent through an angel.
Many times we are reminded to have faith that things will work out. “Give it to God, he’ll take care of it.” This can be very difficult to accept at times. It is then that I am reminded of the story my parents have shared many times.
In the early 1970’s, my mom was notified that they had won $50.00 in a church raffle. She was overjoyed at the news. With five young children and a sixth on the way, she thought of all the things the money could cover; the doctor bill, special shoes my brother needed etc. She called my dad at work to share the good news. My dad told her not to be so excited, that he had told God if he won the raffle he would donate the money to charity. My mom was disappointed. Her family could use the money, but they donated it with faith that God would provide what they needed. As it turned out, business at the store my parents owned picked up and as the years went by and fifteen children were given to them, the money and resources was always there when they needed it.
Psalm 89: “I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens.”
In what moments of your life have you been called to faithfulness? When have you had to rely on your faith in God to see you through?
Kathleen Ehret, wife, mother of 2
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
March 18th, Wednesday, Third Week of Lent
Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9, Psalm 147: 12-13, 15-16, 19-20, Matthew 5: 17-19
After studying the readings for today I couldn’t help but be challenged by them. Is it right to question and challenge a law of either our church or state? As most people, I realize that rules and laws are necessary to maintain a civilized society. There are also times in my life that I feel “rules were made to be broken”.
When writing the constitution, our forefathers couldn’t foresee what additional amendments would be needed. Additional amendments have abolished slavery, insured that the rights of citizens would not be denied on account of race or color and gave women the right to vote. When rules or laws are made they reflect a time in our society and our development as a nation or church. Without challenging the laws written by our forefathers, the outcome of our recent presidential election would never have taken place. The line in Deuteronomy that resonated within me was; “Surely this great nation is a wise and discerning people!”
Jesus came and challenged his followers and taught us that one of the greatest laws of our faith is to love one another! On face value people might say that this is easy but as you reflect on your own lives is it really? Love brings with it both hope and challenge. At times, living within the rules of our Catholic faith is challenging for me. To be honest there are some in which I don’t understand or agree. Is it right to question these rules? I have found that by questioning them I have grown so much in both my knowledge and faith. I know that if I can remember to live my life loving others, questioning is good and can truly bring amazing change. With God all things are possible!
Michelle Steacy, Wife & Mother
After studying the readings for today I couldn’t help but be challenged by them. Is it right to question and challenge a law of either our church or state? As most people, I realize that rules and laws are necessary to maintain a civilized society. There are also times in my life that I feel “rules were made to be broken”.
When writing the constitution, our forefathers couldn’t foresee what additional amendments would be needed. Additional amendments have abolished slavery, insured that the rights of citizens would not be denied on account of race or color and gave women the right to vote. When rules or laws are made they reflect a time in our society and our development as a nation or church. Without challenging the laws written by our forefathers, the outcome of our recent presidential election would never have taken place. The line in Deuteronomy that resonated within me was; “Surely this great nation is a wise and discerning people!”
Jesus came and challenged his followers and taught us that one of the greatest laws of our faith is to love one another! On face value people might say that this is easy but as you reflect on your own lives is it really? Love brings with it both hope and challenge. At times, living within the rules of our Catholic faith is challenging for me. To be honest there are some in which I don’t understand or agree. Is it right to question these rules? I have found that by questioning them I have grown so much in both my knowledge and faith. I know that if I can remember to live my life loving others, questioning is good and can truly bring amazing change. With God all things are possible!
Michelle Steacy, Wife & Mother
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
March 17th, Tuesday, Third Week of Lent
Daniel 3: 25, 34-43, Psalm 25: 4-5ab, 6 and 7bc, 8 and 9, Matthew 18: 21-35
When our children were young we took long driving vacations every summer. We packed the car with everything we could possibly use. After living out of a suitcase for two weeks we felt we were in exile with too much baggage to carry.
In today’s first reading, the Jews are in exile. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon built a golden idol and ordered anyone who failed to worship the idol be placed in a white-hot fiery furnace. Three young Jewish men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to worship the idol. They will not worship any God other than the God of their fathers. In the furnace, they sing God’s praises and empty themselves of the baggage they’ve carried, admit their sins, and ask for God’s forgiveness. Because of their faith and honesty they are not harmed.
In the Gospel, Peter asks, “How many times must I forgive my brother. Seven times?” Jesus responds, “forgive him seventy times seven.” We must treat each other with love and compassion from our heart.
Like the traveler, we burden ourselves with baggage. We start collecting baggage when we are young and add to our load as we grow. Our baggage takes on many forms. Hatred, jealousy, and racism are only a few. In order to serve God we must not only forgive our brothers, we must leave the baggage we carry behind.
The Jews have a nice custom. Before asking for God’s forgiveness you must go to the person you have harmed and ask for their forgiveness. Only then can you ask for God’s forgiveness and go about doing God’s work with a loving heart.
Lay down the baggage that burdens you. Love God, love your neighbor, and then do something about it.
David Levene, husband of Lore, father of Erik and Dana, grandpa of Sarah
When our children were young we took long driving vacations every summer. We packed the car with everything we could possibly use. After living out of a suitcase for two weeks we felt we were in exile with too much baggage to carry.
In today’s first reading, the Jews are in exile. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon built a golden idol and ordered anyone who failed to worship the idol be placed in a white-hot fiery furnace. Three young Jewish men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to worship the idol. They will not worship any God other than the God of their fathers. In the furnace, they sing God’s praises and empty themselves of the baggage they’ve carried, admit their sins, and ask for God’s forgiveness. Because of their faith and honesty they are not harmed.
In the Gospel, Peter asks, “How many times must I forgive my brother. Seven times?” Jesus responds, “forgive him seventy times seven.” We must treat each other with love and compassion from our heart.
Like the traveler, we burden ourselves with baggage. We start collecting baggage when we are young and add to our load as we grow. Our baggage takes on many forms. Hatred, jealousy, and racism are only a few. In order to serve God we must not only forgive our brothers, we must leave the baggage we carry behind.
The Jews have a nice custom. Before asking for God’s forgiveness you must go to the person you have harmed and ask for their forgiveness. Only then can you ask for God’s forgiveness and go about doing God’s work with a loving heart.
Lay down the baggage that burdens you. Love God, love your neighbor, and then do something about it.
David Levene, husband of Lore, father of Erik and Dana, grandpa of Sarah
Monday, March 16, 2009
March 16th, Monday, Third Week of Lent
2 Kings 5: 1-15b, Psalm 42: 2, 3; 43: 3, 4, Luke 4: 24-30
Today’s readings are a great reminder that God does not discriminate and neither should we. God wants everyone, even “the outsiders” (the lepers and widows) to be “included” in society and receive His loving care. I feel that I was personally taught God’s message of inclusion through the life of my loving Czechoslovakian grandmother, Baba*. You see, I viewed Baba as an “outsider.” At the age of 14, Baba was pulled out of 8th grade and forced to move from her small farm in Pennsylvania to a steel town in West Virginia. There, Baba took a job as a waitress so that she could send money home to her family. Baba never had new clothes, a fancy home or elaborate meals but she always felt blessed. Although she married and had three children, Baba was widowed at a very young age. Because of her lack of education, Baba’s only option was to take a job cleaning offices at night in order to provide for her three young daughters. Although the tough life took its tolls on my grandmother’s physical well-being, her spirit never faltered. Baba started her day by attending mass at the Byzantine Catholic church across the street from her house, and she ended her long night by saying the rosary.
As a child, I must admit that I was often embarrassed by my grandmother. She was so different from the doting grandmothers of my girlfriends. She looked old, didn’t always say and do the “right things” and definitely would never spoil me with material gifts. In my late teens, as I started to awaken from my self-centered world, I realized that my grandmother actually was wiser than most people and offered me the gifts that no money in the world could ever buy. Amongst the many spiritual gifts that Baba taught me through her humble life was the message that it is okay to be “different.” Whether you are the wealthy, well-educated president of a company or a poor uneducated cleaning lady, we are all children of God. Everyone was put on this earth for a reason and we all have wonderful gifts to offer this world. By using the gifts that God grants us, we can have a very purposeful and rewarding earthly life. Although I took a different path from my grandmother, by going to college and working at a large firm, I always took as much interest in the cleaning ladies, mail clerks and security guards as I did the firm president. Today, as the Gospel suggests, open your heart to someone different from you---an “outsider”----you just might be surprised at the wonderful lessons you will learn!
Kathy Ritchie, wife to Scott, mother of Kate, Meg and Michael and part-time Human Resource consultant
Footnote: My grandmother, “Baba” (Mary Sholtis), would have celebrated her 99th birthday today, March 16th.
Today’s readings are a great reminder that God does not discriminate and neither should we. God wants everyone, even “the outsiders” (the lepers and widows) to be “included” in society and receive His loving care. I feel that I was personally taught God’s message of inclusion through the life of my loving Czechoslovakian grandmother, Baba*. You see, I viewed Baba as an “outsider.” At the age of 14, Baba was pulled out of 8th grade and forced to move from her small farm in Pennsylvania to a steel town in West Virginia. There, Baba took a job as a waitress so that she could send money home to her family. Baba never had new clothes, a fancy home or elaborate meals but she always felt blessed. Although she married and had three children, Baba was widowed at a very young age. Because of her lack of education, Baba’s only option was to take a job cleaning offices at night in order to provide for her three young daughters. Although the tough life took its tolls on my grandmother’s physical well-being, her spirit never faltered. Baba started her day by attending mass at the Byzantine Catholic church across the street from her house, and she ended her long night by saying the rosary.
As a child, I must admit that I was often embarrassed by my grandmother. She was so different from the doting grandmothers of my girlfriends. She looked old, didn’t always say and do the “right things” and definitely would never spoil me with material gifts. In my late teens, as I started to awaken from my self-centered world, I realized that my grandmother actually was wiser than most people and offered me the gifts that no money in the world could ever buy. Amongst the many spiritual gifts that Baba taught me through her humble life was the message that it is okay to be “different.” Whether you are the wealthy, well-educated president of a company or a poor uneducated cleaning lady, we are all children of God. Everyone was put on this earth for a reason and we all have wonderful gifts to offer this world. By using the gifts that God grants us, we can have a very purposeful and rewarding earthly life. Although I took a different path from my grandmother, by going to college and working at a large firm, I always took as much interest in the cleaning ladies, mail clerks and security guards as I did the firm president. Today, as the Gospel suggests, open your heart to someone different from you---an “outsider”----you just might be surprised at the wonderful lessons you will learn!
Kathy Ritchie, wife to Scott, mother of Kate, Meg and Michael and part-time Human Resource consultant
Footnote: My grandmother, “Baba” (Mary Sholtis), would have celebrated her 99th birthday today, March 16th.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
March 15th (3.8.15), Sunday, Third Week of Lent
Exodus 20: 1-17, Psalm 19: 8, 9, 10, 11, 1 Corinthians 1: 22-25, John 2: 13-25
In reflecting on today's gospel John 2:13-25, it occurred to me, "more is expected of those who more has been given" and so I accepted the invitation to share my thoughts and insights with our parish community. To my older contemporaries I urge you to share your wisdom and love of Christ with the less fortunate. To the younger men and women, continue to strive for getting to "know" God. To "know" Him is to love Him. Giving good example is worth a thousand words.
To the younger boys and girls, you too will have to come to "know" God through prayer and study. All of us should establish priorities, placing God at the top of our list. With all the distractions a secular world offers, it is a struggle to stay focused. This is very important.
Growing up during the depression life wasn't easy: temptations and sin were there, just as they are today. The parish became the focal point for social and spiritual activities, along with encouraging frequent Mass and confession. While serving during WWII, getting to Mass and the sacraments was irregular at best. When the opportunity arose, you seized the moment in response to the desire and need you carried with you. The desire developed and matured from early training received at home and school. Emphasis was placed on the commandments and the Baltimore Catechism.
I am confident that the challenges our generation were confronted with made us realize the difference between "need and want." It appears with present economy, along with the war, terrorism, health care, etc. we are going to be faced with some tough choices. In today's reading of the Psalms 19: 8-10, we are reminded that God's law, when followed, protects us and makes us wise, given the promise of eternal salvation. So it is with gratitude. I realize how much I have been given, and welcomed the opportunity to share. Lent is an especially good time to develop virtuous lives.
Luke Kehoe, widower, eight children, 13 grandchildren, member of the "Greatest Generation"
In reflecting on today's gospel John 2:13-25, it occurred to me, "more is expected of those who more has been given" and so I accepted the invitation to share my thoughts and insights with our parish community. To my older contemporaries I urge you to share your wisdom and love of Christ with the less fortunate. To the younger men and women, continue to strive for getting to "know" God. To "know" Him is to love Him. Giving good example is worth a thousand words.
To the younger boys and girls, you too will have to come to "know" God through prayer and study. All of us should establish priorities, placing God at the top of our list. With all the distractions a secular world offers, it is a struggle to stay focused. This is very important.
Growing up during the depression life wasn't easy: temptations and sin were there, just as they are today. The parish became the focal point for social and spiritual activities, along with encouraging frequent Mass and confession. While serving during WWII, getting to Mass and the sacraments was irregular at best. When the opportunity arose, you seized the moment in response to the desire and need you carried with you. The desire developed and matured from early training received at home and school. Emphasis was placed on the commandments and the Baltimore Catechism.
I am confident that the challenges our generation were confronted with made us realize the difference between "need and want." It appears with present economy, along with the war, terrorism, health care, etc. we are going to be faced with some tough choices. In today's reading of the Psalms 19: 8-10, we are reminded that God's law, when followed, protects us and makes us wise, given the promise of eternal salvation. So it is with gratitude. I realize how much I have been given, and welcomed the opportunity to share. Lent is an especially good time to develop virtuous lives.
Luke Kehoe, widower, eight children, 13 grandchildren, member of the "Greatest Generation"
Saturday, March 14, 2009
March 14th (3.07.15), Saturday, Second Week of Lent
Micah 7: 14-15, 18-20, Psalm 103: 1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12, Luke 15: 1-3, 11-32
The Prodigal Son
Here is a story we have heard many times, and as I think about it, depending upon what is happening in my own life at the time, I can imagine myself in the role of the father, the younger son or the older one.
The very day my assigned reading for this booklet came from St. Raymond’s, my adult son who had been living on his own, returned to my home, his van packed with all of his belongings pulled into my driveway. A turn of events brought to me a young man who I had urged out just months ago, and now was back.
Could I be the loving parent, embracing his return? I knew I couldn’t throw a party…but how could I welcome him, open my heart to him, discouraged and seeking my support, one more time. I thought about how I can be tired, discouraged, lonely and vulnerable on my own journey, I can think of the Father, always there, ready to embrace, love and not question. God is ok with who I am…better than ok….could I be there with my son?
Or would I be the elder son….questioning, judging, resenting his return? I asked God to help me see my son as God sees him.
And sometimes I am that younger son…I go out on my own, make my mistakes, think I am in control, traveling, working, dealing with everyday life, seeking what is not mine, forgetting that I belong to God. I can then feel tired, broken, come back looking for a ‘home’, a place where I feel safe, loved, and affirmed. And God can be there for me, to lean into, to love, affirm and embrace me.
God is there for me, no matter. I can be the younger son, making mistakes, selfish, indulging, living life as I choose, or the older son, working hard, trying to impress with commitment and hard work. Either way, God loves me no more, no less. God just loves me! Knowing this, I can live in freedom!
And in the end, when I pass from this life to the next, I like to think that the Father will be waiting, with open arms, welcoming me home, saying, “Val, you are here! I have been waiting for you. Come! The others who have loved you are here and we have planned a grand celebration!”
Valerie Yokie, widow, mother of 2 adult children, a son and a daughter, and is a Mary Kay Sales Director.
The Prodigal Son
Here is a story we have heard many times, and as I think about it, depending upon what is happening in my own life at the time, I can imagine myself in the role of the father, the younger son or the older one.
The very day my assigned reading for this booklet came from St. Raymond’s, my adult son who had been living on his own, returned to my home, his van packed with all of his belongings pulled into my driveway. A turn of events brought to me a young man who I had urged out just months ago, and now was back.
Could I be the loving parent, embracing his return? I knew I couldn’t throw a party…but how could I welcome him, open my heart to him, discouraged and seeking my support, one more time. I thought about how I can be tired, discouraged, lonely and vulnerable on my own journey, I can think of the Father, always there, ready to embrace, love and not question. God is ok with who I am…better than ok….could I be there with my son?
Or would I be the elder son….questioning, judging, resenting his return? I asked God to help me see my son as God sees him.
And sometimes I am that younger son…I go out on my own, make my mistakes, think I am in control, traveling, working, dealing with everyday life, seeking what is not mine, forgetting that I belong to God. I can then feel tired, broken, come back looking for a ‘home’, a place where I feel safe, loved, and affirmed. And God can be there for me, to lean into, to love, affirm and embrace me.
God is there for me, no matter. I can be the younger son, making mistakes, selfish, indulging, living life as I choose, or the older son, working hard, trying to impress with commitment and hard work. Either way, God loves me no more, no less. God just loves me! Knowing this, I can live in freedom!
And in the end, when I pass from this life to the next, I like to think that the Father will be waiting, with open arms, welcoming me home, saying, “Val, you are here! I have been waiting for you. Come! The others who have loved you are here and we have planned a grand celebration!”
Valerie Yokie, widow, mother of 2 adult children, a son and a daughter, and is a Mary Kay Sales Director.
Friday, March 13, 2009
March 13th (3.06.15), Friday, Second Week of Lent
Genesis 37: 3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a, Psalm 105: 16-17, 18-19, 20-21, Matthew 21: 33-43, 45-46
"They bruised his feet with shackles, his neck was put in irons, till what he foretold came to pass, till the word of the Lord proved him true."
Psalm 105:18-19
I recently read the story of a young girl named Sammie. When Sammie was three years old, she was non-verbal and her prognosis for speech was not good. Her diagnosis of Muscular Dystrophy limited her ability to use her muscles for speech. Sign language wasn't an option for her due to her limited dexterity. Sammie's educators thought her cognitive abilities were low because she wasn't communicative. When asked to describe her young daughter, her mom said, 'Sammie is a very sad little girl.' Fortunately for Sammie, she had a student teacher who believed she was capable of more expressive language. With the support of an augmentative communication device, and the support of her student teacher, Sammie was taught to use a computer that generated speech when Sammie pushed symbols or pictures. By giving her a way to express herself, she flourished. The little girl who had been silenced, spoke. Over time and with her ability to communicate restored, Sammie became an excellent student and eventually became a leader in her class as a representative on her student council. Sammie's parents are so proud of her and so grateful to the people who gave her the opportunity to reach her potential.
We all have a voice and the word of God is spoken through us all. We need to listen to the message inside each and every person. Don't let resentment or ignorance be the shackles worn in your relationships. Take the time to listen to those who are trying to speak to you.
Kathleen Schafer is married to Fred and is the mother of three children. She works part-time as a speech language pathologist.
"They bruised his feet with shackles, his neck was put in irons, till what he foretold came to pass, till the word of the Lord proved him true."
Psalm 105:18-19
I recently read the story of a young girl named Sammie. When Sammie was three years old, she was non-verbal and her prognosis for speech was not good. Her diagnosis of Muscular Dystrophy limited her ability to use her muscles for speech. Sign language wasn't an option for her due to her limited dexterity. Sammie's educators thought her cognitive abilities were low because she wasn't communicative. When asked to describe her young daughter, her mom said, 'Sammie is a very sad little girl.' Fortunately for Sammie, she had a student teacher who believed she was capable of more expressive language. With the support of an augmentative communication device, and the support of her student teacher, Sammie was taught to use a computer that generated speech when Sammie pushed symbols or pictures. By giving her a way to express herself, she flourished. The little girl who had been silenced, spoke. Over time and with her ability to communicate restored, Sammie became an excellent student and eventually became a leader in her class as a representative on her student council. Sammie's parents are so proud of her and so grateful to the people who gave her the opportunity to reach her potential.
We all have a voice and the word of God is spoken through us all. We need to listen to the message inside each and every person. Don't let resentment or ignorance be the shackles worn in your relationships. Take the time to listen to those who are trying to speak to you.
Kathleen Schafer is married to Fred and is the mother of three children. She works part-time as a speech language pathologist.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
March 12th (3.05.15), Thursday, Second Week of Lent
Jeremiah 17: 5-10, Psalm 1: 1-2, 3, 4 and 6, Luke 16: 19-31
At the time of this writing, I find myself in the ranks of the unemployed, worrying about the well-being of my family as our nation seems inevitably headed toward depression. With bills continuing to come in, I worry about my wife and four children and I struggle with the growing despair of how I have failed to provide for them. As my despair grows, so too does my anger - anger against the company that let me go but also anger against God for allowing this to happen to me and to my family. Where is our God and how could he have left us like this?
A few days ago, as I sat alone in the kitchen, saddened at the thought of how different this coming Christmas would be, my wife came and sat beside me. I was surprised at how peaceful she looked in the midst of our situation. She said, “There are so many good things that can come out of this.” And then she handed me an article written by Ronald Rolheiser. He wrote of when the Israelites had been taken into exile in Babylon. How can there be a God when everything they knew was taken from them? Where was God in the midst of this great upheaval? And then he wrote God’s answer: “You will find me again when you search for me in a deeper way, with all your heart, mind and soul.”
Now more than ever, the words of the prophet Jeremiah are a lifeline to me: “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD.” As much as I hate being in my current situation, I know that God is extending an invitation to find Him in the midst of our upheaval. God still loves us and He is still taking care of us. God may lead us to places we don’t want to go, but He never leaves us alone, not even for a moment. As always, He remains our hope.
Terry Harmon, happily married father of four
At the time of this writing, I find myself in the ranks of the unemployed, worrying about the well-being of my family as our nation seems inevitably headed toward depression. With bills continuing to come in, I worry about my wife and four children and I struggle with the growing despair of how I have failed to provide for them. As my despair grows, so too does my anger - anger against the company that let me go but also anger against God for allowing this to happen to me and to my family. Where is our God and how could he have left us like this?
A few days ago, as I sat alone in the kitchen, saddened at the thought of how different this coming Christmas would be, my wife came and sat beside me. I was surprised at how peaceful she looked in the midst of our situation. She said, “There are so many good things that can come out of this.” And then she handed me an article written by Ronald Rolheiser. He wrote of when the Israelites had been taken into exile in Babylon. How can there be a God when everything they knew was taken from them? Where was God in the midst of this great upheaval? And then he wrote God’s answer: “You will find me again when you search for me in a deeper way, with all your heart, mind and soul.”
Now more than ever, the words of the prophet Jeremiah are a lifeline to me: “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD.” As much as I hate being in my current situation, I know that God is extending an invitation to find Him in the midst of our upheaval. God still loves us and He is still taking care of us. God may lead us to places we don’t want to go, but He never leaves us alone, not even for a moment. As always, He remains our hope.
Terry Harmon, happily married father of four
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
March 11th (3.04.15), Wednesday, Second Week of Lent
Jeremiah 18: 18-20, Psalm 31: 5-6, 14, 15-16, Matthew 20: 17-28
In reading and reflecting on these scripture selections, I found the themes of power and sacrifice compelling, especially given our uncertain economic and global climate today. What does it mean to put our trust in God? Do we look primarily for protection from our enemies? Or can we drink from Jesus' cup and give ourselves in sacrifice for the greater good?
In Matthew's gospel, we learn that Jesus' very human followers had hopes of achieving power and status. In a situation practically seething with tension and envy, Jesus takes the opportunity to remind them that it isn't about power, but about humility. Has much changed in 2000 years? Not really. Jesus speaks of the "great ones" making "their authority" known and exercising their power over their subjects. I can open today's newspaper and find examples all over our globe of people in power -- whether political or economic -- abusing that power through violence, greed, and other corrupting forces.
What are we called to do? To put aside our desires for power and status and serve the needs of the many. Can we create a society that values each member for the unique contributions he or she makes? That values serving others instead of taking for ourselves? That values humility, compassion, and community?
I wonder what my sacrifices will be to live a life of humility. What does it mean to be humble as a corporate manager? Is humility an asset or a detriment professionally? How can I be humble as a parent and still have the respect of my children? What trappings of status and power must I set aside?
Juliane Pearson, married to John, mother of Tommy and Nora, user experience manager
In reading and reflecting on these scripture selections, I found the themes of power and sacrifice compelling, especially given our uncertain economic and global climate today. What does it mean to put our trust in God? Do we look primarily for protection from our enemies? Or can we drink from Jesus' cup and give ourselves in sacrifice for the greater good?
In Matthew's gospel, we learn that Jesus' very human followers had hopes of achieving power and status. In a situation practically seething with tension and envy, Jesus takes the opportunity to remind them that it isn't about power, but about humility. Has much changed in 2000 years? Not really. Jesus speaks of the "great ones" making "their authority" known and exercising their power over their subjects. I can open today's newspaper and find examples all over our globe of people in power -- whether political or economic -- abusing that power through violence, greed, and other corrupting forces.
What are we called to do? To put aside our desires for power and status and serve the needs of the many. Can we create a society that values each member for the unique contributions he or she makes? That values serving others instead of taking for ourselves? That values humility, compassion, and community?
I wonder what my sacrifices will be to live a life of humility. What does it mean to be humble as a corporate manager? Is humility an asset or a detriment professionally? How can I be humble as a parent and still have the respect of my children? What trappings of status and power must I set aside?
Juliane Pearson, married to John, mother of Tommy and Nora, user experience manager
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
March 10th (3.03.15), Tuesday, Second Week of Lent
Isaiah 1: 10, 16-20, Psalm 50: 8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23, Matthew 23: 1-12
Isaiah, the Psalmist and Matthew come right to the point and profess the main theme of Lent (fasting from sin)…‘wash yourselves clean,’ ‘cease doing evil,’ ‘do not follow their example, for they preach but they do not practice.’ As it is with any negative, there is always a positive and so I believe in looking and living the other side of that coin ... as Isaiah also states, ‘learn to do good.’ As Fr. Chuck Faso notes in “The Joy of Lent,” printed in the front of this booklet, it’s the difference between fasting and feasting, or as I also see it, the difference between evil and good, doubt and faith, sorrow and joy, darkness and light, anger and forgiveness, fear and love, and despair and hope.
When our oldest daughter Christine was two or so, my wife began a new bedtime ritual with her, which she continued with our second daughter Lauren. She calls it “Fun Day,” a review and sequenced account of what happened during the day. She says she started it to ensure Christine’s memory would be tested and challenged…I now reflect and believe that “Fun Day” serves a higher purpose. “Fun Day” truly focuses on the good, the joy, the love of the day rather than reviewing just the sins and faults. It says: Live in the moment/day, not the past or the future.
Over the past 3 years, it has been hard to find and live that “Fun Day” at times and so Lent, the season of sorrow, has become a special time for me…it provides the hope that comes from despair. In Lent, I see both death and life, a sorrowful Good Friday and a joyous Easter Sunday, the brutal Crucifixion and the celebration of the Resurrection. I have become keenly aware that Christ died for our sins and so I should take action to move from sin to a “Fun Day.”
My not-so-unique theory is as follows: If we all fill our lives with more love, more good times, more good deeds (for the sake of others) or simply live and feast on “Fun Days,” then how can sin and evil survive?
Marty Mueller, husband of Carolyn for 19 years, father of Christine (4) in heaven and Lauren (4) on earth
Isaiah, the Psalmist and Matthew come right to the point and profess the main theme of Lent (fasting from sin)…‘wash yourselves clean,’ ‘cease doing evil,’ ‘do not follow their example, for they preach but they do not practice.’ As it is with any negative, there is always a positive and so I believe in looking and living the other side of that coin ... as Isaiah also states, ‘learn to do good.’ As Fr. Chuck Faso notes in “The Joy of Lent,” printed in the front of this booklet, it’s the difference between fasting and feasting, or as I also see it, the difference between evil and good, doubt and faith, sorrow and joy, darkness and light, anger and forgiveness, fear and love, and despair and hope.
When our oldest daughter Christine was two or so, my wife began a new bedtime ritual with her, which she continued with our second daughter Lauren. She calls it “Fun Day,” a review and sequenced account of what happened during the day. She says she started it to ensure Christine’s memory would be tested and challenged…I now reflect and believe that “Fun Day” serves a higher purpose. “Fun Day” truly focuses on the good, the joy, the love of the day rather than reviewing just the sins and faults. It says: Live in the moment/day, not the past or the future.
Over the past 3 years, it has been hard to find and live that “Fun Day” at times and so Lent, the season of sorrow, has become a special time for me…it provides the hope that comes from despair. In Lent, I see both death and life, a sorrowful Good Friday and a joyous Easter Sunday, the brutal Crucifixion and the celebration of the Resurrection. I have become keenly aware that Christ died for our sins and so I should take action to move from sin to a “Fun Day.”
My not-so-unique theory is as follows: If we all fill our lives with more love, more good times, more good deeds (for the sake of others) or simply live and feast on “Fun Days,” then how can sin and evil survive?
Marty Mueller, husband of Carolyn for 19 years, father of Christine (4) in heaven and Lauren (4) on earth
Monday, March 9, 2009
March 9th (3.02.15), Monday, Second Week of Lent
Daniel 9: 4b-10, Psalm 79: 8, 9, 11 and 13, Luke 6: 36-38
As I read Daniel and the Psalms, I am reminded that we are all sinners. Each of us has his own faults that we commit frequently and yet our God always forgives us. He does this from His great abundance of forgiveness. As with the prodigal son, when we return to God's good graces, we are welcomed as a cherished member of the family. The depth of His forgiveness is beyond measure. If only we could be as forgiving to those we meet. How often do we complain? How often do we count our blessings: our families, our health, our jobs, the country we live in, the home in which we live, our changing seasons and the opportunities that we and our children enjoy?
The gospel message is simple: "judge not. And you shall not be judged." How many times in life do we jump to conclusions and make wrong judgments because we don't understand? In 1979 Mary and I had the opportunity to visit Mary's bother in Papua New Guinea where he worked as a missionary. After several long plane rides we spent the last 5 hours going by boat to his small island. When we arrived, there was a reception committee waiting for us. The boat docked at a long pier. The greeters walked toward us and stopped 30 yards away and shouted at us in their language which we didn't understand. At the front of this group were two men. One had a spear and the other held a string between his extended hands. They approached to 10 yards and again shouted at us and waved what was in their hands. It appeared to my unknowing eyes as if we were being told to go away in a strong language.
Fr. Tom had been at this island station for several years and I was pretty we were safe. However, the greeting looked like we were getting into an old fashioned donnybrook. Instead they treated us like royalty. This was their way to greet important visitors. Not understanding the language or the customs put an entirely different view on the matter.
Jim Barrett, Retired, married, father of 5 and grandfather of 11
As I read Daniel and the Psalms, I am reminded that we are all sinners. Each of us has his own faults that we commit frequently and yet our God always forgives us. He does this from His great abundance of forgiveness. As with the prodigal son, when we return to God's good graces, we are welcomed as a cherished member of the family. The depth of His forgiveness is beyond measure. If only we could be as forgiving to those we meet. How often do we complain? How often do we count our blessings: our families, our health, our jobs, the country we live in, the home in which we live, our changing seasons and the opportunities that we and our children enjoy?
The gospel message is simple: "judge not. And you shall not be judged." How many times in life do we jump to conclusions and make wrong judgments because we don't understand? In 1979 Mary and I had the opportunity to visit Mary's bother in Papua New Guinea where he worked as a missionary. After several long plane rides we spent the last 5 hours going by boat to his small island. When we arrived, there was a reception committee waiting for us. The boat docked at a long pier. The greeters walked toward us and stopped 30 yards away and shouted at us in their language which we didn't understand. At the front of this group were two men. One had a spear and the other held a string between his extended hands. They approached to 10 yards and again shouted at us and waved what was in their hands. It appeared to my unknowing eyes as if we were being told to go away in a strong language.
Fr. Tom had been at this island station for several years and I was pretty we were safe. However, the greeting looked like we were getting into an old fashioned donnybrook. Instead they treated us like royalty. This was their way to greet important visitors. Not understanding the language or the customs put an entirely different view on the matter.
Jim Barrett, Retired, married, father of 5 and grandfather of 11
Sunday, March 8, 2009
March 8th (3.01.15), Sunday, Second Week of Lent
Genesis 22: 1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18, Psalm 116: 10, 15, 16-17, 18-19, Romans 8: 31b-34, Mark 9: 2-10
Throughout my life, I have struggled to balance science with my faith in God. Try as I might, the engineer in me couldn’t get beyond the dogma of the church. Further, I have led a very blessed life – never needing to draw upon a spiritual well to surmount the challenges I have encountered. That is, until I became a mother.
As other mothers can attest, the physical and emotional challenges can often seem insurmountable. Subsuming my entire being to care for an infant and a toddler was the first serious test of my fortitude and capacity for love. While my test was not nearly in the same league as that of Abraham, I found myself needing to trust in God. I realized that He would provide what I needed to get through that time, if I would only have faith.
That is when my spiritual journey – to get beyond the dogma – truly began. It started with a wonderful experience in St. Raymond’s RCIA program and continues today with reading, reflection, and prayer. I have come to believe that to bridge the divide between a perfect God and imperfect man, God sent us his son to show us by example how to lead our lives. Jesus was humble and loved everyone, the lowliest most of all. He suffered as we suffer. And though he questioned God, as any of us might, he ultimately trusted in God to guide him. So I have learned to trust in God.
Now rather than ask God for things I want to happen, I spend more time listening, trying to discern how he might be trying to guide me. I’ve found the balance I was seeking – and will continue on my journey seeking an even richer relationship with God.
Sann Knipple, mother of two, wife, engineer
Throughout my life, I have struggled to balance science with my faith in God. Try as I might, the engineer in me couldn’t get beyond the dogma of the church. Further, I have led a very blessed life – never needing to draw upon a spiritual well to surmount the challenges I have encountered. That is, until I became a mother.
As other mothers can attest, the physical and emotional challenges can often seem insurmountable. Subsuming my entire being to care for an infant and a toddler was the first serious test of my fortitude and capacity for love. While my test was not nearly in the same league as that of Abraham, I found myself needing to trust in God. I realized that He would provide what I needed to get through that time, if I would only have faith.
That is when my spiritual journey – to get beyond the dogma – truly began. It started with a wonderful experience in St. Raymond’s RCIA program and continues today with reading, reflection, and prayer. I have come to believe that to bridge the divide between a perfect God and imperfect man, God sent us his son to show us by example how to lead our lives. Jesus was humble and loved everyone, the lowliest most of all. He suffered as we suffer. And though he questioned God, as any of us might, he ultimately trusted in God to guide him. So I have learned to trust in God.
Now rather than ask God for things I want to happen, I spend more time listening, trying to discern how he might be trying to guide me. I’ve found the balance I was seeking – and will continue on my journey seeking an even richer relationship with God.
Sann Knipple, mother of two, wife, engineer
Saturday, March 7, 2009
March 7th (2.28.15), Saturday, First Week of Lent
Deuteronomy 26: 16-19, Psalm 119: 1-2, 4-5, 7-8, Matthew 5: 43-48
A Meditation on Law and Covenant for Lent 2009
This I believe
In all its simplicity and profundity:
I am called to follow the truth wherever it leads me
And love goodness wherever I find it.
That is the first commandment.
The second commandment is this:
I am to be compassion and hospitality in relationship with all that is.
I am always in covenant with God Who keeps me in existence.
I am invited to adopt the disposition of Jesus and rest peacefully in the arms of Abba every night of my life.
Charman Brennan, parent, teacher
A Meditation on Law and Covenant for Lent 2009
This I believe
In all its simplicity and profundity:
I am called to follow the truth wherever it leads me
And love goodness wherever I find it.
That is the first commandment.
The second commandment is this:
I am to be compassion and hospitality in relationship with all that is.
I am always in covenant with God Who keeps me in existence.
I am invited to adopt the disposition of Jesus and rest peacefully in the arms of Abba every night of my life.
Charman Brennan, parent, teacher
Friday, March 6, 2009
March 6th (2,27,15), Friday, First Week of Lent
Ezekiel 18: 21-28, Psalm 130: 1-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7bc-8, Matthew 5: 20-26
Psalm 130
A Prayer for Help
God’s help is all around me. Sometimes when I pray for God’s help I forget that He never stops helping me. His Love for me never changes. When I ask for forgiveness He has already given it. I can face my problems with courage.
I recognize God’s help in many ways. I find it in the people I meet, in Bible readings, in the words of the prophets and in the lives of the saints. Praying “The Lord’s Prayer” and “The Prayer of St. Francis” speaks volumes to my heart. Especially beautiful and rewarding is St. Paul’s writing about Love found in the 1st Letter to the Corinthians: Chapter 13.
God gave me the ultimate gift of help when He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to show me the way and to die on the cross for my sins.
When I realize the constant Love that God has for me I am filled with joy. The People of God can truly wait in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord. But I must always remember that the Peace I seek must begin in my own heart.
Jeanne Mathews, wife of Bob, mother of 5, mother-in-law of 5, grandmother of 12, grandmother-in-law of 1.
Psalm 130
A Prayer for Help
God’s help is all around me. Sometimes when I pray for God’s help I forget that He never stops helping me. His Love for me never changes. When I ask for forgiveness He has already given it. I can face my problems with courage.
I recognize God’s help in many ways. I find it in the people I meet, in Bible readings, in the words of the prophets and in the lives of the saints. Praying “The Lord’s Prayer” and “The Prayer of St. Francis” speaks volumes to my heart. Especially beautiful and rewarding is St. Paul’s writing about Love found in the 1st Letter to the Corinthians: Chapter 13.
God gave me the ultimate gift of help when He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to show me the way and to die on the cross for my sins.
When I realize the constant Love that God has for me I am filled with joy. The People of God can truly wait in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord. But I must always remember that the Peace I seek must begin in my own heart.
Jeanne Mathews, wife of Bob, mother of 5, mother-in-law of 5, grandmother of 12, grandmother-in-law of 1.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
March 5th (2.26.15), Thursday, First Week of Lent
Esther C: 12, 14-16, 23-25, Psalm 138: 1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8, Matthew 7: 7-12
Today’s three readings challenge me to think about my relationship with God. From each of the three people whose words we hear – Esther, David and Jesus – we can acquire some lessons on how to maintain and enrich our connection with God.
Esther is alone and in distress. We find her pleading to God to manifest himself. I wonder how often I look for God during those challenging times I experience and ask God to be with me. While I am waiting to see what God’s plan is during difficult moments, I am not always patient. What is needed is the courage Esther begs for as she anticipates God’s help. I learn from Esther that I must trust in God more and be patient.
David’s psalm is filled with joyful praise for the Lord. It is obvious that the Lord has answered David’s call to him in some way and David’s spirit is strengthened. The psalm is a beautiful thank you note to God. I wonder how often I am filled with such joy and gratitude when God answers my prayers. Do I acknowledge that God’s hand is always outstretched and that his love will endure forever? I learn from David that I must be more grateful and aware of God working in my life.
In Matthew’s gospel Jesus imparts some advice to the people by using several useful verbs – ask, seek and knock. I see these words as steps toward a deeper relationship with God. It is easy to ask God for something. It is an attempt to communicate, but it is so passive. Seeking means I need to make a greater effort to know God. Knocking and having the door open is what I must do more often. To me it means enjoying a more active communication with God. I learn from these three words to let God in and permeate my life to a greater degree.
I am comforted by the words of Esther, David and Jesus and the opportunity their words gave me to examine how I relate to God. Courage, gratitude and awareness will allow me to further strengthen my relationship with God.
Margaret Novotny, wife, mother of two sons, teacher
Today’s three readings challenge me to think about my relationship with God. From each of the three people whose words we hear – Esther, David and Jesus – we can acquire some lessons on how to maintain and enrich our connection with God.
Esther is alone and in distress. We find her pleading to God to manifest himself. I wonder how often I look for God during those challenging times I experience and ask God to be with me. While I am waiting to see what God’s plan is during difficult moments, I am not always patient. What is needed is the courage Esther begs for as she anticipates God’s help. I learn from Esther that I must trust in God more and be patient.
David’s psalm is filled with joyful praise for the Lord. It is obvious that the Lord has answered David’s call to him in some way and David’s spirit is strengthened. The psalm is a beautiful thank you note to God. I wonder how often I am filled with such joy and gratitude when God answers my prayers. Do I acknowledge that God’s hand is always outstretched and that his love will endure forever? I learn from David that I must be more grateful and aware of God working in my life.
In Matthew’s gospel Jesus imparts some advice to the people by using several useful verbs – ask, seek and knock. I see these words as steps toward a deeper relationship with God. It is easy to ask God for something. It is an attempt to communicate, but it is so passive. Seeking means I need to make a greater effort to know God. Knocking and having the door open is what I must do more often. To me it means enjoying a more active communication with God. I learn from these three words to let God in and permeate my life to a greater degree.
I am comforted by the words of Esther, David and Jesus and the opportunity their words gave me to examine how I relate to God. Courage, gratitude and awareness will allow me to further strengthen my relationship with God.
Margaret Novotny, wife, mother of two sons, teacher
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
March 4th (2.25.15), Wednesday, First Week of Lent
Jonah 3: 1-10, Psalm 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19, Luke 11: 29-32The Ninevites heard Jonah’s announcement that their city would be destroyed. The king was an example to the people; he laid his riches aside and humbled himself; maybe God would have mercy on his city! He ordered both human and beast not to eat or drink but repent to God and turn from their evil ways. God, with His great love, saw this and spared the city.
As Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, are there blatant or subtle signs before us that we need to make changes in our lives? Which areas do we need to consider and “shape up”? Could we get strength from knowing that God is there in our life, every minute of EVERY SINGLE DAY?
In our lives, if we turn from guilt, sin and come humbly before God, He will lift us up and give us a clean heart and a new spirit. God’s grace is always there for us to be taken. God’s presence is ever within us. The Psalms give us great hope.
Dear God, please have mercy on me, a sinner, accept me—broken in spirit, guilty of sin, humble of heart. Please grant me the courage and the strength to make changes in the ways I am choosing to live. I will rejoice in your forgiveness; thank you for loving me the way you do.
Betty Weidenbach, wife of John, mother of 3, mother-in-law of 3, proud Omi to Andrew and Madeline, Co-Spiritual Director of Women’s CRHP
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
March 3rd (2.24.15), Tuesday, First Week of Lent
Isaiah 55: 10-11, Psalm 34: 4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19, Matthew 6: 7-15
In today’s readings, we learn that “Yahweh hears our cries and rescues us from all our troubles. He heals the brokenhearted and helps those whose spirits are crushed,” and “If you forgive others their failings, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours.” These words were brought home to me when our staff at work went through a major reorganization and we were shifted around and had to give up lots of space to make room for new administrative offices. People were promoted who we felt weren’t qualified. When we questioned what was happening, we were told to “think outside the box.” We were tempted to put a few people inside the box, close the lid tightly, and never look back.
After retelling this story over and over for months on end to anyone who would listen, especially to my very patient husband, and after many sleepless nights, I finally grew tired of feeling angry and resentful. During a reconciliation service, I mentioned that I had a hard time forgiving some people at work. Fr. Bernie replied that some situations are too big for us to handle alone and that we have to let go and give them over to God. I decided to give it a try. As soon as I asked God to show me how to forgive and really meant it, I immediately felt lighter. A peace came over me that I was not capable of creating for myself. God heard my cries and I was able to make peace with a difficult situation that I had no control over except how I reacted to it.
Lent is a good time to ask ourselves what is holding us back or making us feel burdened, angry, or resentful. If we look at Jesus on the cross, we know He is the ultimate role-model in showing us how to forgive others. If we can open ourselves up to God’s healing power throughout Lent, Easter will truly become a new beginning for us.
Cathy Niemet, Adult Literacy/Volunteer Manager, wife of Tom
In today’s readings, we learn that “Yahweh hears our cries and rescues us from all our troubles. He heals the brokenhearted and helps those whose spirits are crushed,” and “If you forgive others their failings, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours.” These words were brought home to me when our staff at work went through a major reorganization and we were shifted around and had to give up lots of space to make room for new administrative offices. People were promoted who we felt weren’t qualified. When we questioned what was happening, we were told to “think outside the box.” We were tempted to put a few people inside the box, close the lid tightly, and never look back.
After retelling this story over and over for months on end to anyone who would listen, especially to my very patient husband, and after many sleepless nights, I finally grew tired of feeling angry and resentful. During a reconciliation service, I mentioned that I had a hard time forgiving some people at work. Fr. Bernie replied that some situations are too big for us to handle alone and that we have to let go and give them over to God. I decided to give it a try. As soon as I asked God to show me how to forgive and really meant it, I immediately felt lighter. A peace came over me that I was not capable of creating for myself. God heard my cries and I was able to make peace with a difficult situation that I had no control over except how I reacted to it.
Lent is a good time to ask ourselves what is holding us back or making us feel burdened, angry, or resentful. If we look at Jesus on the cross, we know He is the ultimate role-model in showing us how to forgive others. If we can open ourselves up to God’s healing power throughout Lent, Easter will truly become a new beginning for us.
Cathy Niemet, Adult Literacy/Volunteer Manager, wife of Tom
Monday, March 2, 2009
March 2nd (2.23.15), Monday, First Week of Lent
Leviticus 19: 1-2, 11-18, Psalm 19: 8, 9, 10, 15, Matthew 25: 31-46
God asks us to love Him with all our heart and our neighbor as we love ourselves. While I try to be an obedient follower, sometimes I feel like a pretender. Do my actions reflect what God wants me to do? Or, is it all about me? Do I even stop and ask myself that question?
I am on my way home from Louisiana where I participated in a Habitat for Humanity building project. During the week we prayed daily and worked hard. I worked with different people everyday and got to know people I probably would not have acknowledged in the grocery store. I met the new homeowners and their families. I loved listening to and hearing where people come from, what they left behind and how their faith fits into their lives. I was told that I was a blessing, I learned the steps of building a house and I saw God everyday. I saw him in the people around me. I felt him in my heart. There was no pretending. The trip was a gift. It will be a reminder of why God asks us to love our neighbor as we do ourselves.
I read the readings I was assigned on the way down to Louisiana and struggled with what I would say in my reflection. On the way home, I prayed first, reread my readings and received the words.
While one trip will not change everything and a house is not built in one week, my heart has been changed forever. I brought a tool belt filled with tools, but God showed me how to use those tools for His goodness. The walls we carried and secured showed me that it’s impossible to do His goodness on my own. And, the roof that I helped shingle reminds me that God will protect me when I give freely of myself to others.
Jackie Holcomb, married 25 years to Bryan, mother to Andrew and Erik
God asks us to love Him with all our heart and our neighbor as we love ourselves. While I try to be an obedient follower, sometimes I feel like a pretender. Do my actions reflect what God wants me to do? Or, is it all about me? Do I even stop and ask myself that question?
I am on my way home from Louisiana where I participated in a Habitat for Humanity building project. During the week we prayed daily and worked hard. I worked with different people everyday and got to know people I probably would not have acknowledged in the grocery store. I met the new homeowners and their families. I loved listening to and hearing where people come from, what they left behind and how their faith fits into their lives. I was told that I was a blessing, I learned the steps of building a house and I saw God everyday. I saw him in the people around me. I felt him in my heart. There was no pretending. The trip was a gift. It will be a reminder of why God asks us to love our neighbor as we do ourselves.
I read the readings I was assigned on the way down to Louisiana and struggled with what I would say in my reflection. On the way home, I prayed first, reread my readings and received the words.
While one trip will not change everything and a house is not built in one week, my heart has been changed forever. I brought a tool belt filled with tools, but God showed me how to use those tools for His goodness. The walls we carried and secured showed me that it’s impossible to do His goodness on my own. And, the roof that I helped shingle reminds me that God will protect me when I give freely of myself to others.
Jackie Holcomb, married 25 years to Bryan, mother to Andrew and Erik
Sunday, March 1, 2009
March 1st, (2.22.15) Sunday, First Week of Lent
Genesis 9: 8-15, Psalm 25: 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 1 Peter 3: 18-22, Mark 1: 12-15Today’s first reading spoke to us personally. Shortly after we started dating, Dina contracted spinal meningitis while away at college. Many medical decisions consumed our days, and Dina was not coherent for more than 5-10 minutes at a time. Family and friends hoped for the best, but feared for the worst. Being 500 miles away, all Dave could do was fall into fear or hold onto hope and pray. Dave went for a walk and began asking God to heal Dina, and give him peace of mind in the days to come. God’s response was a beautiful rainbow! We took this rainbow as a sign of God’s covenant and it helped us both to trust in God’s purpose and timing.
Of course not all signs can be as obvious, but the first reading reminds us not only of God’s covenant to us; but also to see God as communicative. Since communication is a 2-way street, we had to ask ourselves: “How well are we listening“?
With a family of five, our jobs, activities at church, school, etc. and a fast-paced world, we are pressed for time and attention on all fronts. With so much going on and so much information available, what is the basis for our decisions: knowledge or faith? At what point do we turn off the brain and listen with the heart?
Dear Lord, as we try to balance our roles and fulfill our promises as husband, wife, parent and colleague, let us value our moments with you. We may not have 30 minutes to reflect on your Word, but please help us to value the 5 minutes it takes to appreciate a rainbow and listen to your guidance. Please help us to trust in your purpose and timing for our lives and lead us a few steps back to find the rainbows.
Dave/Dina Petricca, Network Architect/Physical Therapist, parents of three
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