Genesis 15: 5-12, 17-18, Psalm 27: 1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14, Philippians 3: 17 -- 4: 1, Luke 9: 28b-36
What cloud of darkness envelopes you? For me, darkness comes in different forms. Feeling overwhelmed by too many commitments and responsibilities, anxiety about the H1N1 virus, regret and remorse for yelling at my children, sadness and worry for friends and family going through hard times. Darkness can overtake me.
In today’s readings, there is great darkness for many. But thankfully and most encouragingly, it reaffirms that there is nothing to fear when we trust in the Lord. Abram does not know what the Lord has in store for him; he is enveloped by a deep, terrifying darkness. But who comes through and assures Abram? God. He promises Abram he will give him descendants and a land in which to live. And then Psalm 27 reminds me: “The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom should I fear? The Lord is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid?” Again, here is the Lord, reassuring me that his promise of light awaits me. And, here’s an important point for me, it’s not just off in the distance somewhere but right now. “I believe that I shall see the bounty of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord.”
In the Gospel when John, James and Peter go with Jesus to the top of the mountain. Jesus is transfigured; “his face changed in appearance and his clothes became dazzling white.” The opportunity is pure, unrestrained, completely open, and truly limitless in its offering. And when Peter offers to build three tents, seemingly more concerned with earthly things, “a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened…” the light goes out. For me, my concern, worry and fear with earthly things seems to be my downfall. For when I let go of the worry, put my trust in the Lord, and seek His light, the darkness recedes.
The Lord has given me the light for my darkness. He offers me light each and every day. My challenge is to switch on the light more often. My challenge is to remember that the light is always at the ready, always at my fingertips, always in my heart.
Molly Sandberg, married to Warren, mother of Caroline and Meghan.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
February 27th, Saturday, First Week of Lent
Deuteronomy 26: 16-19, Psalm 119: 1-2, 4-5, 7-8, Matthew 5: 43-48
Today’s first reading, from Deuteronomy, sounds harsh, as the Israelites are commanded to obey ordinances if they are to be God’s people. However, all relationships that work or are successful, come with some expectations from both parties. Friends expect other friends to treat them in a respectful manner. Spouses expect devotion from each other in good times and in bad. Co-workers expect others to bring in the bagels some of the time. It is in some of these relationships that another person brings out the best in us. I think our relationship with God is a similar two–way street. God loves us unconditionally. Knowing this encourages us to hold up our end of the bargain, by living in a Christian way.
Psalm 119 goes a little further into this topic. It’s like starting a new diet. You believe that just because you want to be on this diet and thus fit in those skinny jeans, that you’ll just do it. Surely it’s not that easy! Deep down I think we want to behave in God-like ways, but things like peer pressure, worldly goods, exceptional brownies, etc. complicate it quite a bit. The people who are strong enough to override those pressures are the ones who seem to be most content and happy. They have learned to “give it to God.“
Finally, the Gospel illustrates one of the most difficult ways to live by God’s commandments: Love thy neighbor. Right away I think of a few people whom I’d rather not spend any time with…. Sometimes it’s difficult to be as kind as we know we should. I can think of a time when I could have reached out to a person who looked like she didn’t know anyone else in the room, but then I didn’t. Or a time when I knew that my joke would be at someone else’s expense, but told it anyway. And then felt bad. Had I done what God wanted me to do, I probably would have felt better about it.
Having a relationship with God is challenging, but, for all the times I remember being strong enough to do His will and put forth the effort, it really did feel good.
Laura Carioti, married, mother of two, former south-sider.
Today’s first reading, from Deuteronomy, sounds harsh, as the Israelites are commanded to obey ordinances if they are to be God’s people. However, all relationships that work or are successful, come with some expectations from both parties. Friends expect other friends to treat them in a respectful manner. Spouses expect devotion from each other in good times and in bad. Co-workers expect others to bring in the bagels some of the time. It is in some of these relationships that another person brings out the best in us. I think our relationship with God is a similar two–way street. God loves us unconditionally. Knowing this encourages us to hold up our end of the bargain, by living in a Christian way.
Psalm 119 goes a little further into this topic. It’s like starting a new diet. You believe that just because you want to be on this diet and thus fit in those skinny jeans, that you’ll just do it. Surely it’s not that easy! Deep down I think we want to behave in God-like ways, but things like peer pressure, worldly goods, exceptional brownies, etc. complicate it quite a bit. The people who are strong enough to override those pressures are the ones who seem to be most content and happy. They have learned to “give it to God.“
Finally, the Gospel illustrates one of the most difficult ways to live by God’s commandments: Love thy neighbor. Right away I think of a few people whom I’d rather not spend any time with…. Sometimes it’s difficult to be as kind as we know we should. I can think of a time when I could have reached out to a person who looked like she didn’t know anyone else in the room, but then I didn’t. Or a time when I knew that my joke would be at someone else’s expense, but told it anyway. And then felt bad. Had I done what God wanted me to do, I probably would have felt better about it.
Having a relationship with God is challenging, but, for all the times I remember being strong enough to do His will and put forth the effort, it really did feel good.
Laura Carioti, married, mother of two, former south-sider.
Friday, February 26, 2010
February 26th, Friday, First Week of Lent
Ezekiel 18: 21-28, Psalm 130: 1-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7bc-8, Matthew 5: 20-26
The common message that embraced me with all of the readings was “Let Go and Let God.” Let go of judgment, let go of grudges, let go of anger and let God in. Ironically, when I was called to do this, I was doing none of that.
It was a tough month for me, emotionally, spiritually, physically. I was overworked, overtired, overstressed and overcommitted. Work was challenging, and yet all around me friends and family were being let go, so I certainly couldn’t complain. I was busy at work, busy at home, busy with my volunteering efforts and not taking any time for myself or God for that matter. I was angry at everyone wondering why I seemed to have so many more burdens and why weren’t others stepping up to the plate.
Then I got the letter asking me to do this. At first I ignored it and placed it in my never ending cluttered “to do” pile. The letter was followed up with a phone call from a parish priest, on a day I had just come home from Mass and realized what was missing was my faith connection. It was an “aha” moment when I was told I was selected to do this and I felt a strong message from God to come closer to him. I hesitated to say “yes,” but my Catholic guilt got the best of me, and again, my inability to say “no” when I am overwhelmed.
Shortly afterwards, my readings came to me—one might say they were randomly selected, but the messages were shouting out to me from God—Relax, let go, come to me and let me help you. I realized I was angry for things I shouldn’t be and was judging others for not reacting or responding to life’s stressors or extending themselves the way I was. God was speaking to me directly through the scriptures that were sent to me and he drew me back to him and gave me permission to release myself in his loving care. I have always been one to look for the signs, and I am sure I have missed many of the subtle ones, but this one was a neon flashing sign—right into my path, guiding me in his ways.
Too often we hang on to grudges, stress and anger, to the detriment of ourselves and those around us. When we hold on to negativity, we are not open to the positives. When we Let Go and Let God, we are allowing God to guide us along his path. And that will make all the difference.
Lisa Honcharuk, married with two daughters.
The common message that embraced me with all of the readings was “Let Go and Let God.” Let go of judgment, let go of grudges, let go of anger and let God in. Ironically, when I was called to do this, I was doing none of that.
It was a tough month for me, emotionally, spiritually, physically. I was overworked, overtired, overstressed and overcommitted. Work was challenging, and yet all around me friends and family were being let go, so I certainly couldn’t complain. I was busy at work, busy at home, busy with my volunteering efforts and not taking any time for myself or God for that matter. I was angry at everyone wondering why I seemed to have so many more burdens and why weren’t others stepping up to the plate.
Then I got the letter asking me to do this. At first I ignored it and placed it in my never ending cluttered “to do” pile. The letter was followed up with a phone call from a parish priest, on a day I had just come home from Mass and realized what was missing was my faith connection. It was an “aha” moment when I was told I was selected to do this and I felt a strong message from God to come closer to him. I hesitated to say “yes,” but my Catholic guilt got the best of me, and again, my inability to say “no” when I am overwhelmed.
Shortly afterwards, my readings came to me—one might say they were randomly selected, but the messages were shouting out to me from God—Relax, let go, come to me and let me help you. I realized I was angry for things I shouldn’t be and was judging others for not reacting or responding to life’s stressors or extending themselves the way I was. God was speaking to me directly through the scriptures that were sent to me and he drew me back to him and gave me permission to release myself in his loving care. I have always been one to look for the signs, and I am sure I have missed many of the subtle ones, but this one was a neon flashing sign—right into my path, guiding me in his ways.
Too often we hang on to grudges, stress and anger, to the detriment of ourselves and those around us. When we hold on to negativity, we are not open to the positives. When we Let Go and Let God, we are allowing God to guide us along his path. And that will make all the difference.
Lisa Honcharuk, married with two daughters.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
February 25th, Thursday, First Week of Lent
Esther C: 12, 14-16, 23-25, Psalm 138: 1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8, Matthew 7: 7-12
We got a call from the doctor’s office: Our pregnancy test was back.
“Congratulations!” the nurse said. She was elated. I was terrified.
When we started our family six years earlier, pregnancy seemed easy. After Ryan’s birth, we thought we’d get pregnant again right away and fill our three bedrooms with kids. Instead, years of pregnancy losses mounted. It became too much. We embraced adoption instead.
Then the financial realities hit: insurance covered fertility treatments, not adoption. We struggled to make a decision. I opened my Bible one night, searching for direction. It fell open to Matthew 7: “Ask and it will be given to you.” I was instantly frustrated. Hadn’t I been asking for the past six years? Then I paused. Had I? Had I asked with any trust in my heart? Was I truly ready to ask God to put me back on the roller coaster of emotion of pregnancy? Could I give my heart over to hope? We prayed and we listened. We decided to trust God. To ask.
Those early months of pregnancy were nerve-wracking. Repeatedly, I returned to Matthew 7: “If you … know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.” Those words always brought peace to my spirit.
On May 2, 2007, Colleen was born. She was born of hope and promise; she is a constant reminder to us of God’s ever-faithful love. But our babies who didn’t make it also remind us of God’s ever-faithful love. “I praise your name for your fidelity and love,” the Psalmist says. “When I cried out, you answered; you strengthened my spirit.”
We can ask, and we can seek, and we can knock; sometimes we’ll get what we ask for and sometimes we won’t. But if we hope, if we trust even in the face of fear, we’ll be able to see the good that God does in our lives, even in those most difficult times. It’s so hard to let go of control; it’s something I still struggle with daily. But I know that in those moments when I can let go, I find God. And his gifts are always good.
Paula St. Louis, married to Tom Shute, mom to Ryan (10) and Colleen (2).
We got a call from the doctor’s office: Our pregnancy test was back.
“Congratulations!” the nurse said. She was elated. I was terrified.
When we started our family six years earlier, pregnancy seemed easy. After Ryan’s birth, we thought we’d get pregnant again right away and fill our three bedrooms with kids. Instead, years of pregnancy losses mounted. It became too much. We embraced adoption instead.
Then the financial realities hit: insurance covered fertility treatments, not adoption. We struggled to make a decision. I opened my Bible one night, searching for direction. It fell open to Matthew 7: “Ask and it will be given to you.” I was instantly frustrated. Hadn’t I been asking for the past six years? Then I paused. Had I? Had I asked with any trust in my heart? Was I truly ready to ask God to put me back on the roller coaster of emotion of pregnancy? Could I give my heart over to hope? We prayed and we listened. We decided to trust God. To ask.
Those early months of pregnancy were nerve-wracking. Repeatedly, I returned to Matthew 7: “If you … know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.” Those words always brought peace to my spirit.
On May 2, 2007, Colleen was born. She was born of hope and promise; she is a constant reminder to us of God’s ever-faithful love. But our babies who didn’t make it also remind us of God’s ever-faithful love. “I praise your name for your fidelity and love,” the Psalmist says. “When I cried out, you answered; you strengthened my spirit.”
We can ask, and we can seek, and we can knock; sometimes we’ll get what we ask for and sometimes we won’t. But if we hope, if we trust even in the face of fear, we’ll be able to see the good that God does in our lives, even in those most difficult times. It’s so hard to let go of control; it’s something I still struggle with daily. But I know that in those moments when I can let go, I find God. And his gifts are always good.
Paula St. Louis, married to Tom Shute, mom to Ryan (10) and Colleen (2).
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
February 24th, Wednesday, First Week of Lent
Jonah 3: 1-10, Psalm 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19, Luke 11: 29-32
“A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” Contrition and humility: These words seem so foreign in today’s society where moral relativism and self-promotion appear to be the norms. And yet, how much different are we from the people of Nineveh? How different are our societies? Is it too much to assume that they too got mired in the mundane details of everyday living; and like us, became so self-sufficient and indifferent to one another.
Despite all their shortcomings, it only took two events for the citizens of Nineveh to be saved: the message of Jonah and the contrition and humility of its citizens. May we be so lucky to be tasked with such easy requirements to achieve our salvation? As the gospel of Luke says “Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation.”
How do we respond to Jesus’ message? Are we contrite and humble enough to accept His grace? Are we trusting enough to share our load with Him? Are we obedient enough to discern and follow His will? Not much is requested of us – only that we make space for Him to come into our lives.
Ariel Arceo, husband of Glenda and father of Andrew, pilgrim.
“A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” Contrition and humility: These words seem so foreign in today’s society where moral relativism and self-promotion appear to be the norms. And yet, how much different are we from the people of Nineveh? How different are our societies? Is it too much to assume that they too got mired in the mundane details of everyday living; and like us, became so self-sufficient and indifferent to one another.
Despite all their shortcomings, it only took two events for the citizens of Nineveh to be saved: the message of Jonah and the contrition and humility of its citizens. May we be so lucky to be tasked with such easy requirements to achieve our salvation? As the gospel of Luke says “Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation.”
How do we respond to Jesus’ message? Are we contrite and humble enough to accept His grace? Are we trusting enough to share our load with Him? Are we obedient enough to discern and follow His will? Not much is requested of us – only that we make space for Him to come into our lives.
Ariel Arceo, husband of Glenda and father of Andrew, pilgrim.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
February 23rd, Tuesday, First Week of Lent
Isaiah 55: 10-11, Psalm 34: 4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19, Matthew 6: 7-15
Today's three readings have sent uplifting messages to me.
Isaiah's reading mentions rain and snow falling on the earth, which moistens the ground. This enables seed planted by sowers to take root and grow grain. The grain provides bread for us. Spreading the Word of God is like the planted seed. It goes out to all and shall take root everywhere and grow. It is my responsibility to help spread it.
The Psalm readings for our reflection, offers praise for deliverance from trouble. Seventeen years ago my doctors discovered a fast growing cancerous tumor on my prostate gland. My wife and I were terrified! We both prayed for help from God. After consulting with several doctors, I was treated with thirty-five radiation treatments. Today, with constant help from my doctors, I am relatively healthy. Everyday we are grateful to the Lord for the help I received.
Matthew's reading concerns how we should pray. It tells me prayer does not have to be flowery and long winded. All we have to do is pray simply as our Lord instructs us in Matthew's reading, because God knows my needs before I ask. This suggests saying the "Our Father."
Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
Amen.
This prayer is sufficient if we actually do what the prayer says.
Bob Mathews, husband of Jeanne for 56 years, father of 5, grandfather of 12, Retired Civil Engineer, Parishioner for 55 years.
Today's three readings have sent uplifting messages to me.
Isaiah's reading mentions rain and snow falling on the earth, which moistens the ground. This enables seed planted by sowers to take root and grow grain. The grain provides bread for us. Spreading the Word of God is like the planted seed. It goes out to all and shall take root everywhere and grow. It is my responsibility to help spread it.
The Psalm readings for our reflection, offers praise for deliverance from trouble. Seventeen years ago my doctors discovered a fast growing cancerous tumor on my prostate gland. My wife and I were terrified! We both prayed for help from God. After consulting with several doctors, I was treated with thirty-five radiation treatments. Today, with constant help from my doctors, I am relatively healthy. Everyday we are grateful to the Lord for the help I received.
Matthew's reading concerns how we should pray. It tells me prayer does not have to be flowery and long winded. All we have to do is pray simply as our Lord instructs us in Matthew's reading, because God knows my needs before I ask. This suggests saying the "Our Father."
Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
Amen.
This prayer is sufficient if we actually do what the prayer says.
Bob Mathews, husband of Jeanne for 56 years, father of 5, grandfather of 12, Retired Civil Engineer, Parishioner for 55 years.
Monday, February 22, 2010
February 22nd, Monday, First Week of Lent
1 Peter 5: 1-4, Psalm 23: 1-3a, 4, 5, 6, Matthew 16: 13-19
In today’s readings, I’m more familiar with the last 2 readings than the first, but upon reflection let’s focus on 1 Peter 5:1-4. The imagery that comes to mind is one of a “cheerful giver”. He challenges us to “tend the flock of God in your midst…willingly…”eagerly”. We are reminded to be examples to the flock, not holier than thou! Are we not all sinners that can at times, go through the motions, sure we might be doing the right things, or saying the right phrases, but we fail to put our souls or compassion or empathy or care into gear!
Let’s call our desired state, the “Eager Shepherd”. Well this Eager Shepherd, just like the old days, has occupational hazards that they must always be on the lookout for.
In today’s hyper speed pace of life, a lot of external information, usually truncated in some fashion, seems to be inundating us. And keeping up with this can be overwhelming -- unless our moral compasses are properly calibrated, unless we are vigilant about protecting our attention spans. We must keep our focus on the Good Shepherd and on the “flock of God” so that we do not get calloused or desensitized to the human condition. Then and only then, can the cheerful giver or the eager Shepherd tend their flocks.
What’s interesting about the other two readings is that they provide the meaning for what an eager Shepherd is all about in the first place. Keep in mind, we are a resurrection people. If these passages don’t make you salivate for salvation…I don’t what will.
From reading #2: “Only goodness and kindness will follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.”
From reading #3: “I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven”.
So, all you eager Shepherd’s, if you are planning for that big train ride to the promised land, keep fueling that faith furnace to keep that train moving…keep smiling and spread that good news to all your fellow travelers and keep that joy and remember…This Train Is Bound For Glory!
Your humble eager shepherd…
Tom Moore, Husband to Shawn, Father to Tommy, Cody, Megan, and Shannon, brother to all.
In today’s readings, I’m more familiar with the last 2 readings than the first, but upon reflection let’s focus on 1 Peter 5:1-4. The imagery that comes to mind is one of a “cheerful giver”. He challenges us to “tend the flock of God in your midst…willingly…”eagerly”. We are reminded to be examples to the flock, not holier than thou! Are we not all sinners that can at times, go through the motions, sure we might be doing the right things, or saying the right phrases, but we fail to put our souls or compassion or empathy or care into gear!
Let’s call our desired state, the “Eager Shepherd”. Well this Eager Shepherd, just like the old days, has occupational hazards that they must always be on the lookout for.
In today’s hyper speed pace of life, a lot of external information, usually truncated in some fashion, seems to be inundating us. And keeping up with this can be overwhelming -- unless our moral compasses are properly calibrated, unless we are vigilant about protecting our attention spans. We must keep our focus on the Good Shepherd and on the “flock of God” so that we do not get calloused or desensitized to the human condition. Then and only then, can the cheerful giver or the eager Shepherd tend their flocks.
What’s interesting about the other two readings is that they provide the meaning for what an eager Shepherd is all about in the first place. Keep in mind, we are a resurrection people. If these passages don’t make you salivate for salvation…I don’t what will.
From reading #2: “Only goodness and kindness will follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.”
From reading #3: “I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven”.
So, all you eager Shepherd’s, if you are planning for that big train ride to the promised land, keep fueling that faith furnace to keep that train moving…keep smiling and spread that good news to all your fellow travelers and keep that joy and remember…This Train Is Bound For Glory!
Your humble eager shepherd…
Tom Moore, Husband to Shawn, Father to Tommy, Cody, Megan, and Shannon, brother to all.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
February 21st, Sunday, First Week of Lent
Deuteronomy 26: 4-10, Psalm 91: 1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15, Romans 10: 8-13, Luke 4: 1-13
“Therefore, I have now brought you the first fruits of the products of the soil which you O Lord, had given me. And having set them before the Lord, your God, you shall bow down in his presence.”
This Scripture is a challenge. I had to read and reflect, and wonder if I was hearing the message correctly or is it that I am drawn to my conclusion because of my own experiences of rich faith and trust? Trusting the Lord, to help me, prepare me and bless me with the tools to prosper from my immediate situation.
Early in my life I was faced with great sadness at the death of my brother. A fun loving, young, and wonderful brother. I could not understand how these feelings of pain and loss could ever result in anything good?
“He brought us out of Egypt with His strong hand and outstretched arm, with terrifying power, with signs and wonders.”
As the years passed, and the pain of loss still present, I could see the wonder of His work. In experiencing the pain and loss, I had become a different person. I could better understand other people’s sadness, pain and loss. He helped me become a more compassionate, trusting person. This has allowed me to experience the richness of deep friendship and love. I trust in Him that the pain early in my life prepared me for my later rich life.
The lesson of TRUST, has allowed me to pull from the pain and see the wonder of His work. Like when we were first married and we desperately wanted a baby, all of the excitement of being pregnant came to a screeching halt after six months of pregnancy and there was no heartbeat. I had to TRUST in Him that He would carry me through the loss, grief and pain. The many, many days and months of sadness that followed tested my thought-He would not put me through this without a reason?
My Mother, my spiritual guidance counselor, reminded me to “TRUST in God, and He will guide you, worry is lack of TRUST in God.” Once again, my Mom was right! He has guided me to be a better, more enriched friend, Mother and believer. This along with life experiences has allowed me to see the WONDER of God, even when it might be painful.
Jane Lambesis, wife of Peter, mother of Annie, Susie and Peter, grateful daughter, Truster of the Lord
“Therefore, I have now brought you the first fruits of the products of the soil which you O Lord, had given me. And having set them before the Lord, your God, you shall bow down in his presence.”
This Scripture is a challenge. I had to read and reflect, and wonder if I was hearing the message correctly or is it that I am drawn to my conclusion because of my own experiences of rich faith and trust? Trusting the Lord, to help me, prepare me and bless me with the tools to prosper from my immediate situation.
Early in my life I was faced with great sadness at the death of my brother. A fun loving, young, and wonderful brother. I could not understand how these feelings of pain and loss could ever result in anything good?
“He brought us out of Egypt with His strong hand and outstretched arm, with terrifying power, with signs and wonders.”
As the years passed, and the pain of loss still present, I could see the wonder of His work. In experiencing the pain and loss, I had become a different person. I could better understand other people’s sadness, pain and loss. He helped me become a more compassionate, trusting person. This has allowed me to experience the richness of deep friendship and love. I trust in Him that the pain early in my life prepared me for my later rich life.
The lesson of TRUST, has allowed me to pull from the pain and see the wonder of His work. Like when we were first married and we desperately wanted a baby, all of the excitement of being pregnant came to a screeching halt after six months of pregnancy and there was no heartbeat. I had to TRUST in Him that He would carry me through the loss, grief and pain. The many, many days and months of sadness that followed tested my thought-He would not put me through this without a reason?
My Mother, my spiritual guidance counselor, reminded me to “TRUST in God, and He will guide you, worry is lack of TRUST in God.” Once again, my Mom was right! He has guided me to be a better, more enriched friend, Mother and believer. This along with life experiences has allowed me to see the WONDER of God, even when it might be painful.
Jane Lambesis, wife of Peter, mother of Annie, Susie and Peter, grateful daughter, Truster of the Lord
Saturday, February 20, 2010
February 20th, Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Isaiah 58: 9b-14, Psalm 86: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, Luke 5: 27-32
Oftentimes we get so wrapped up in material items that we “lose” God. Among the shopping, the activities, and the running from place to place, God often becomes pushed into the back of our minds even though He is the reason for our life on earth. However, God has subtle ways of reminding us that He is here. If we look close, we can “find” Him in the other people around us.
At school, everyone is involved in the “Pay It Forward” project. It entails that if someone does you a favor, instead of paying the favor “back,” you pay it “forward” by doing a favor for someone else. In this way, kindness and care are circulated; one small good deed can catalyze a chain reaction of good deeds.
Love can be passed from person to person by something as small as a friendly smile or a thoughtful compliment. By “paying forward” our happiness to others, we all celebrate the joy of being alive in God’s presence. While God is not here with us as His own physical Person, He is here in the arms of a friend or family member, in the praise of a teacher or colleague, and even in the warm smile of a stranger. God can be found in everyone if we just take a few seconds to stop and look. We keep God alive in our hearts by “paying it forward.”
Elaina Grott, sister to Meghan, Hannah, and Abby; senior at Prospect High School
Oftentimes we get so wrapped up in material items that we “lose” God. Among the shopping, the activities, and the running from place to place, God often becomes pushed into the back of our minds even though He is the reason for our life on earth. However, God has subtle ways of reminding us that He is here. If we look close, we can “find” Him in the other people around us.
At school, everyone is involved in the “Pay It Forward” project. It entails that if someone does you a favor, instead of paying the favor “back,” you pay it “forward” by doing a favor for someone else. In this way, kindness and care are circulated; one small good deed can catalyze a chain reaction of good deeds.
Love can be passed from person to person by something as small as a friendly smile or a thoughtful compliment. By “paying forward” our happiness to others, we all celebrate the joy of being alive in God’s presence. While God is not here with us as His own physical Person, He is here in the arms of a friend or family member, in the praise of a teacher or colleague, and even in the warm smile of a stranger. God can be found in everyone if we just take a few seconds to stop and look. We keep God alive in our hearts by “paying it forward.”
Elaina Grott, sister to Meghan, Hannah, and Abby; senior at Prospect High School
Friday, February 19, 2010
February 19th, Friday after Ash Wednesday
Isaiah 58: 1-9a, Psalm 51: 3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19, Matthew 9: 14-15
These are the types of readings that make me uncomfortable. Probably because I spend more time ‘thinking’ about how to be a better Christian than I spend ‘being’ one. I’m a busy guy and just when I think I’ve got enough on my plate, I hear these readings and they remind me to get up and get out – they remind me to do something for someone else. I’m not very good at doing these things on my own. I suspect, if left to my own, I’d spend a lot of time in my house or at my job and very little time reaching out beyond myself and trying to be an agent of change for those around me. Luckily, my wife is not like me and through her good example, I’ve learned to be a bit better at serving those around me. Kathleen, my wife, has taught me that in addition to the ‘big’ things (like donating time and money to those in need) that there are a thousand little ways to bring a light into the lives of those around us. She’s great at listening to others and hearing when there is a need (sometime an unspoken need) and acting on it. She’s a true friend to others. She volunteers her time and she works hard at being a role model for our children. Through her example, I’m reminded that I need to share my time with our church and our community. She’s also helped me understand the value of spending time with my kids both at home and as a coach for their sporting activities. She’s taught me that none of us is more ‘just’ than the other, but she’s shown me that by helping others in small ways that we can keep ourselves truly alive and healthy.
Not turning your back on others. “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn and your wound shall quickly be healed.”
Fred Schafer is darn lucky to be married to Kathleen Schafer. Together we have three great kids: Mary, Theresa and Charlie.
These are the types of readings that make me uncomfortable. Probably because I spend more time ‘thinking’ about how to be a better Christian than I spend ‘being’ one. I’m a busy guy and just when I think I’ve got enough on my plate, I hear these readings and they remind me to get up and get out – they remind me to do something for someone else. I’m not very good at doing these things on my own. I suspect, if left to my own, I’d spend a lot of time in my house or at my job and very little time reaching out beyond myself and trying to be an agent of change for those around me. Luckily, my wife is not like me and through her good example, I’ve learned to be a bit better at serving those around me. Kathleen, my wife, has taught me that in addition to the ‘big’ things (like donating time and money to those in need) that there are a thousand little ways to bring a light into the lives of those around us. She’s great at listening to others and hearing when there is a need (sometime an unspoken need) and acting on it. She’s a true friend to others. She volunteers her time and she works hard at being a role model for our children. Through her example, I’m reminded that I need to share my time with our church and our community. She’s also helped me understand the value of spending time with my kids both at home and as a coach for their sporting activities. She’s taught me that none of us is more ‘just’ than the other, but she’s shown me that by helping others in small ways that we can keep ourselves truly alive and healthy.
Not turning your back on others. “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn and your wound shall quickly be healed.”
Fred Schafer is darn lucky to be married to Kathleen Schafer. Together we have three great kids: Mary, Theresa and Charlie.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
February 18th, Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Deuteronomy 30: 15-20, Psalm 1: 1-2, 3, 4 and 6, Luke 9: 22-25
Following yesterday’s symbolism of ashes, today our readings all point to a central theme of “choice.” In Deuteronomy, we hear that “set before us are life and prosperity, death and doom” – “the blessing and the curse” but we are challenged to “choose life.”
Psalms offers us “happy those who do not follow…the wicked. Rather the law of the Lord is their joy.” Here my thoughts simply focused on “love God” and “love others as you love yourself.” The reading continues with “a tree planted near (life-giving) water yields fruit and prospers.” Following that through, such fruit would provide life-giving nutrients and accordingly sustain life for more than just itself.
And in Luke we hear “If anyone wishes to come after me,” they must deny themselves, take up their cross and “follow me.”
As I reflect on today’s readings, I see a blueprint for not only our Lenten journey, but our life’s journey as well. What path do we choose? Can you and I put away some of our less than loving habits, tendencies and actions that at times prevent us from loving as we could? Do we realize just how much a feeling of prosperity we gain by loving and nurturing others? Can we set aside wicked tendencies and strive to be more Jesus-like and follow Him?
I think at times we all get hung up with just what exactly we “give up” and deny from ourselves during Lent rather than focusing our energy on the positive actions we could take. And when we choose to do something for others, we always receive far more than we give. By helping and loving others we become like that tree planted near life-giving waters. We give the abundance of our own fruit in the form of time, talent and treasure to sustain others. If we could make another smile, help someone less fortunate than ourselves and encourage another by seeing the good of life through actions we take, clearly you and I will have heeded the challenge and the choice to “follow Him.” For me, the choice seems so obvious. The challenge is to aspire to it daily.
Larry Fujara, husband, father of 3, Administrator
Following yesterday’s symbolism of ashes, today our readings all point to a central theme of “choice.” In Deuteronomy, we hear that “set before us are life and prosperity, death and doom” – “the blessing and the curse” but we are challenged to “choose life.”
Psalms offers us “happy those who do not follow…the wicked. Rather the law of the Lord is their joy.” Here my thoughts simply focused on “love God” and “love others as you love yourself.” The reading continues with “a tree planted near (life-giving) water yields fruit and prospers.” Following that through, such fruit would provide life-giving nutrients and accordingly sustain life for more than just itself.
And in Luke we hear “If anyone wishes to come after me,” they must deny themselves, take up their cross and “follow me.”
As I reflect on today’s readings, I see a blueprint for not only our Lenten journey, but our life’s journey as well. What path do we choose? Can you and I put away some of our less than loving habits, tendencies and actions that at times prevent us from loving as we could? Do we realize just how much a feeling of prosperity we gain by loving and nurturing others? Can we set aside wicked tendencies and strive to be more Jesus-like and follow Him?
I think at times we all get hung up with just what exactly we “give up” and deny from ourselves during Lent rather than focusing our energy on the positive actions we could take. And when we choose to do something for others, we always receive far more than we give. By helping and loving others we become like that tree planted near life-giving waters. We give the abundance of our own fruit in the form of time, talent and treasure to sustain others. If we could make another smile, help someone less fortunate than ourselves and encourage another by seeing the good of life through actions we take, clearly you and I will have heeded the challenge and the choice to “follow Him.” For me, the choice seems so obvious. The challenge is to aspire to it daily.
Larry Fujara, husband, father of 3, Administrator
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
February 17th, Ash Wednesday
Joel 2: 12-18, Psalm 51: 3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17, 2 Corinthians 5: 20 -- 6:2, Matthew 6: 1-6, 16-18Each year, Ash Wednesday seems like a huge stop sign to me. It tells me to step back from my daily activities and take a long look at what my young adult children call “the big picture.” Where do I stand with God and with those around me?
When I look at the “big picture” of my life I often feel overwhelmed by my omissions, thoughtlessness and selfishness. When I feel unworthy and discouraged, the prophet Joel’s message in the first reading comforts me. He tells us that God is “slow to anger and rich in kindness” in the face of all disasters, even those we have created in our own lives. God is always there, saying “even now, return to me with your whole heart.”
As we turn to God, He asks us to acknowledge the truth of how we stand before him. We ask him for the wisdom to know our own inmost being. As we come to better understand our relationship to Him and to the others in our lives, we know we have to change how we act and pray: to repent. Matthew’s gospel tells us that these changes should not be showy, but they should be sincere, and long-lasting.
My biggest problem with Lent is that after I pass the Ash Wednesday stop sign—after looking hard at my life, telling God how sorry I am, and asking Him to help me change things—I begin to pick up speed and slip back into old habits. This Lent I will ask God to help my spirit be steadfast through the six long weeks of this “acceptable time”, so that I will slow down and prepare well for the Easter miracle.
Kathy Swedo, married to Ray, mother of Barb, Liz and Zach
Sunday, February 7, 2010
LENTEN WORSHIP SCHEDULE 2010
WEEKEND LITURGIES
Saturday (anticipated) 5:15 pm
Sunday—6:45 am, 8:00 am, 9:30 am and 11:15 am
MORNING LITURGIES
Monday - Friday 7:00 am
Saturday—8:00 am
EUCHARISTIC CHAPEL FOR PRIVATE PRAYER
Monday - Friday 6:30 am—10:00 pm
Saturday—6:30 am—5:00 pm
Sunday—1:00 pm—10:00pm
ASH WEDNESDAY — February 17, 2010
7:00 am—Mass—w/ashes
8:15 am—Mass—w/ashes
12:15 pm—Ash Wednesday Prayer Service– w/ashes
4:30 pm—Ash Wednesday Prayer Service– w/ashes
7:00 pm—Mass—w/ashes
LENTEN EVENING LITURGIES
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 7:00 pm (during Lent)
“HOLY PLACES OF LENT”
Tuesday 7:00 pm (during Lent)
(except Tuesday, March 16th)
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
Friday 7:00 pm (during Lent)
(except Friday, March 5th)
EVENING OF LENTEN INDIVIDUAL RECONCILIATION
Tuesday, March 16th at 7:00 pm
or
INDIVIDUAL RECONCILIATION
Saturday 4:00 pm
(except Holy Saturday)
Saturday (anticipated) 5:15 pm
Sunday—6:45 am, 8:00 am, 9:30 am and 11:15 am
MORNING LITURGIES
Monday - Friday 7:00 am
Saturday—8:00 am
EUCHARISTIC CHAPEL FOR PRIVATE PRAYER
Monday - Friday 6:30 am—10:00 pm
Saturday—6:30 am—5:00 pm
Sunday—1:00 pm—10:00pm
ASH WEDNESDAY — February 17, 2010
7:00 am—Mass—w/ashes
8:15 am—Mass—w/ashes
12:15 pm—Ash Wednesday Prayer Service– w/ashes
4:30 pm—Ash Wednesday Prayer Service– w/ashes
7:00 pm—Mass—w/ashes
LENTEN EVENING LITURGIES
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 7:00 pm (during Lent)
“HOLY PLACES OF LENT”
Tuesday 7:00 pm (during Lent)
(except Tuesday, March 16th)
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
Friday 7:00 pm (during Lent)
(except Friday, March 5th)
EVENING OF LENTEN INDIVIDUAL RECONCILIATION
Tuesday, March 16th at 7:00 pm
or
INDIVIDUAL RECONCILIATION
Saturday 4:00 pm
(except Holy Saturday)
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