Podcasts about reflection this

Word for Today:Genesis 12:1 (NKJV)Now the Lord had said to Abram: “Get out of your country, From your family And from your father's house, To a land that I will show you.”Reflection:This week, take some time to pray and ask: “Lord, what are the things You're calling me to leave behind in my walk with You?”

Courageous leadership doesn't seek glory—it pours it out in worship to the One who is worthy. #daybydaylw Interested in learning more about becoming a devoted follower of Christ? Go to follow.lifeword.org! ~~~ Scripture: 2 Samuel 23:13–17 Theme: True leaders point others to the worthiness of God. Reflection: This story of the three mighty men fetching water from a well in enemy-occupied Bethlehem is one of the most stunning displays of loyalty and love in all of Scripture. They heard David's longing—not even a command, just a wish—and acted on it with fearless resolve. But what happens next is equally powerful. David refuses to drink the water and instead pours it out—to the Lord. At first glance, that may seem disrespectful to the men. But David wasn't being dismissive—he was being reverent. He was saying, “I am not worthy of this sacrifice. Only God is.” David's leadership didn't turn the spotlight on himself—it turned it to God. This is courageous leadership. True leaders tremble at the weight of responsibility. They see the sacrifices of others and are moved—not to take credit, but to give glory. They turn hearts upward. Whether you lead a family, a ministry, or a classroom, let your leadership be like David's—quick to recognize the worthiness of God above all. Prayer Points: Ask God to make you a leader who trembles at His worthiness. Pray that your leadership would glorify Christ, not yourself. Thank Him for those who serve faithfully and sacrificially around you. 2 People to pray for Candra Barnett, our missionary in Romania The Romani-Kalderash Lifeword broadcast heard throughout Romania Summary: Courageous leadership doesn't seek glory—it pours it out in worship to the One who is worthy.

ChatGPT is pretty smart, but even with all those smarts it can still be deceived by the wrong eschatology. Join me today as I convince ChatGPT through simple argumentation why historicism is the correct way to interpret bible prophecy.TIMESTAMPS* 00:00 - Introduction* 03:36 - ChatGPT's Conversion* 27:50 - Reflection This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.danceoflife.com/subscribe

Deuteronomy 3 continues Moses' recounting of Israel's journey and battles as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This chapter focuses primarily on two major events: the defeat of King Og of Bashan and the allocation of the conquered territories to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. 1. Victory Over King Og (Verses 1–11) Moses recalls how the Israelites, under God's command, advanced toward Bashan, where they faced King Og and his forces. Despite Og's formidable reputation and fortified cities, God assured Moses of victory, just as He had granted triumph over Sihon, King of Heshbon, earlier. The Israelites defeated Og, took control of sixty fortified cities, and utterly destroyed the region. The chapter even highlights Og's enormous iron bed, a detail underscoring the magnitude of God's victory over seemingly unbeatable foes. Reflection: This victory reminds us that no enemy is too great when God fights for His people. Obstacles that appear insurmountable in human terms are overcome by divine power and assurance. 2. Division of the Land (Verses 12–17) After the conquest, Moses describes how the newly acquired territories east of the Jordan River were distributed. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh received these lands as their inheritance. Moses emphasizes that this decision was not arbitrary but aligned with God's plan. He also ensures military support from these tribes for the upcoming battles west of the Jordan. Reflection: This section demonstrates God's provision and careful planning. The allocation of land ensured that the tribes were settled according to divine wisdom, and it shows a balance between enjoying God's blessings and continuing to support the community's mission. 3. Encouragement to Joshua (Verses 18–22) Moses charges Joshua with the task of leading Israel into the Promised Land. He encourages him by recalling the victories God has already provided, reinforcing that future battles will be won in the same way. The message is clear: just as God was faithful in past victories, He will remain faithful in what lies ahead. Reflection: This is a powerful leadership moment. Moses is passing the baton to Joshua with words of faith and courage. It teaches us about mentoring, preparing future leaders, and trusting in God's continued guidance. 4. Moses' Plea and God's Firm Response (Verses 23–29) In the closing section, Moses shares a personal moment: his heartfelt plea to God to allow him to enter the Promised Land. God, however, firmly denies his request, reminding Moses of the consequences of earlier disobedience. Yet, in His grace, God allows Moses to see the land from a distance. He then instructs Moses to strengthen and encourage Joshua, who will complete the mission. Reflection: This portion of the chapter is deeply human and touching. It shows Moses' humility and God's firm justice, but also His kindness. Moses' acceptance of God's will and his focus on empowering Joshua highlights the importance of submission to God's plan and supporting the next generation of leaders. ⸻ Themes in Deuteronomy 3: •God's Sovereignty in Victory: God leads His people to triumph over powerful enemies. •Provision and Preparation: God provides not just victory, but a home and structure for His people. •Leadership Transition: Moses prepares Joshua to lead with courage, underscoring mentorship and legacy. •Obedience and Consequences: Moses' story is a sober reminder of the weight of obedience. ⸻ Final Reflection: Deuteronomy 3 is a chapter full of transition — from conquest to settlement, from one leader to the next, from human limitations to divine promise. It teaches us to remember God's faithfulness, to trust His plans, and to courageously move forward, even when the path includes personal sacrifice.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Exodus 33: An Overview and Reflection Exodus 33 is a powerful and pivotal chapter in the story of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. It emphasizes God's presence, Moses' intercession, and the profound relationship between God and His chosen people. Below is a breakdown of the key themes and reflections: 1. God's Command to Depart (Verses 1–6) After the Israelites' sin with the golden calf in Exodus 32, God commands them to leave Mount Sinai and continue toward the Promised Land. He assures them of His promise to send an angel ahead to drive out their enemies (the Canaanites, Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites). However, God declares He will not go with them directly, warning that their stubbornness might lead to their destruction. Reflection: This section shows God's holiness and justice. Despite their sin, God remains faithful to His promises but highlights the consequences of disobedience. It challenges readers to consider the importance of repentance and God's mercy even when discipline is required. 2. The Israelites' Mourning (Verses 7–11) When the people hear that God will not go with them, they mourn deeply. Moses sets up a tent outside the camp called the “tent of meeting,” where he meets with God. This tent becomes a symbol of God's presence and guidance, with the pillar of cloud signifying God's glory. The text highlights the unique relationship between Moses and God, describing it as a face-to-face friendship. Reflection: The Israelites' mourning demonstrates the deep desire for God's presence, reminding us that material blessings (like the Promised Land) are meaningless without the spiritual blessing of God's closeness. Moses' relationship with God encourages us to pursue intimacy with Him through prayer and trust. 3. Moses' Intercession (Verses 12–17) Moses intercedes on behalf of the Israelites, pleading with God to accompany them on their journey. He argues that it is only God's presence that sets Israel apart from other nations. In response to Moses' faith and persistence, God relents, promising that His presence will go with them and give them rest. Reflection: This dialogue highlights the power of intercessory prayer. Moses' boldness in asking God to remain with His people is an example of deep faith and leadership. It also underscores God's compassion and willingness to listen to His people. 4. Moses' Request to See God's Glory (Verses 18–23) Moses makes an extraordinary request: to see God's glory. God agrees to reveal His goodness and proclaim His name but explains that no one can see His face and live. Instead, God places Moses in a cleft of the rock, covering him with His hand as His glory passes by. Moses is allowed to see God's back, a partial but profound revelation of His majesty. Reflection: This section reminds us of God's transcendence and holiness. Even Moses, who had a unique relationship with God, could not fully behold His glory. At the same time, it reveals God's graciousness in allowing humans to experience His presence in ways they can handle. It invites us to seek God's glory in our lives while respecting His awe-inspiring holiness. Key Lessons from Exodus 33 1.The Value of God's Presence: The chapter repeatedly emphasizes that God's presence is more important than any physical blessing or achievement. Like Moses, we should desire God above all else. 2.The Power of Intercession: Moses' role as an intercessor foreshadows Christ's role as our mediator. It teaches us the importance of praying for others and standing in the gap for those in need. 3.God's Faithfulness and Holiness: Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains true to His promises. Yet His holiness demands respect and repentance, reminding us of the balance between God's love and justice. 4.The Pursuit of God's Glory: Moses' bold request to see God's glory challenges us to seek a deeper relationship with Him. While we cannot fully comprehend His majesty, we can experience His presence through worship, prayer, and His Word. Final Reflection Exodus 33 invites us into a deeper understanding of God's character—His holiness, faithfulness, and relational nature. It encourages us to prioritize God's presence in our lives, seek intimacy with Him, and intercede for others. Like Moses, we can boldly approach God, trusting in His grace and goodness as we navigate our own spiritual journeys.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Your Daily Prayer

Your Daily Prayer

Navigating Nonprofit Growth Amidst Political Shifts: Insights from Whole Whale In this episode of the Nonprofit News Feed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler at Whole Whale, and Nick Azulay, Senior Strategy Manager, dive into the evolving landscape of the nonprofit sector. They discuss how historical trends might mirror the potential growth and challenges nonprofits face in light of political shifts and economic changes. Key Topics and Insights: Historical Context and Future Predictions: George Weiner draws parallels between the nonprofit boom of the 1980s and the anticipated growth in the 2020s, driven by government restructuring, workforce transformation through AI, and a significant wealth transfer. The conversation highlights the importance of nonprofits adapting to potential reductions in government social services and leveraging increased funding opportunities. Legislative Concerns: A critical discussion centers around the controversial bill HR 9495, which could allow the Department of Treasury to unilaterally revoke nonprofit status by labeling organizations as terrorist-supporting. This has sparked widespread opposition from major nonprofit coalitions due to concerns over executive overreach and lack of due process. Volunteerism Rebound: Encouraging news from AmeriCorps reveals a significant rebound in formal volunteering rates post-pandemic, with 75.7 million Americans participating in 2023, contributing nearly 5 billion hours of service. Philanthropic Movements: Mackenzie Scott's recent donation of Amazon shares signals another major round of charitable giving, emphasizing the importance of nonprofits telling compelling stories to attract such transformative funding. Community Impact and Seasonal Giving: The episode closes with a heartwarming story from Valley Santa in Pennsylvania, which is gearing up to provide Christmas gifts to thousands of children in need, showcasing the spirit of giving during the holiday season. Call to Action: Nonprofits are encouraged to prepare for upcoming changes by strengthening their storytelling, engaging with digital tools, and actively participating in advocacy efforts against potentially harmful legislation. Reflection: This episode underscores the resilience and adaptability required of nonprofits in navigating political and economic landscapes. It highlights the potential for growth and the critical role of strategic planning and community engagement in sustaining impact.

Commentary on Genesis 30 Genesis 30 continues the narrative of Jacob's family, highlighting themes of rivalry, human frailty, divine intervention, and God's faithfulness to His covenant. The chapter primarily focuses on the struggles between Rachel and Leah, Jacob's wives, as they compete for his affection and vie to bear children who will continue the lineage of Israel. 1. Rachel and Leah's Rivalry (Verses 1–13) Rachel, despite being Jacob's favored wife, remains barren, while Leah continues to bear children. This causes deep frustration for Rachel, who exclaims to Jacob, “Give me children, or I shall die!” (v. 1). Jacob responds with anger, reminding her that only God can grant children. •Rachel's Desperation: Rachel resorts to using her servant, Bilhah, as a surrogate mother, mirroring the earlier story of Sarah and Hagar. Bilhah bears two sons, Dan and Naphtali, whose names reflect Rachel's feelings of vindication and struggle. •Leah's Response: Not to be outdone, Leah also gives her servant, Zilpah, to Jacob, resulting in two more sons, Gad and Asher. This rivalry shows the human tendency to seek control over circumstances instead of waiting for God's timing. Reflection: This portion of the narrative highlights the dangers of envy and competition within families. Despite their actions, God's sovereignty is evident as He fulfills His promise to build a great nation through Jacob. 2. Leah and Rachel's Fertility (Verses 14–24) The story takes a curious turn with the mention of mandrakes, a plant believed to enhance fertility. Reuben, Leah's son, brings mandrakes to his mother, but Rachel bargains for them, offering Leah a night with Jacob in exchange. Leah conceives again and bears two more sons, Issachar and Zebulun, and later a daughter, Dinah. •God's Grace to Rachel: After years of barrenness, God remembers Rachel and grants her a son, Joseph. His name reflects Rachel's prayer for God to “add” another son to her. Reflection: This section demonstrates the futility of relying on superstitions (mandrakes) versus trusting in God. Ultimately, it is God who opens and closes the womb. 3. Jacob's Prosperity (Verses 25–43) After Joseph's birth, Jacob asks Laban for permission to leave and establish his own household. However, Laban, realizing that God has blessed him because of Jacob, persuades him to stay. They agree on a plan where Jacob would keep the speckled and spotted sheep as his wages. •Jacob's Resourcefulness: Jacob employs a breeding strategy using peeled branches to influence the flocks' appearance. While the exact science behind this is unclear, the text emphasizes God's blessing on Jacob's efforts. •God's Faithfulness: Jacob becomes exceedingly prosperous, acquiring large flocks, servants, and camels, fulfilling God's promise to bless him. Reflection: This section highlights God's ability to bless His chosen people even amid human scheming. Jacob's success is not solely due to his ingenuity but ultimately stems from God's covenant with him. Key Themes in Genesis 30 1.God's Sovereignty: Despite human manipulation, it is God who determines outcomes, whether in childbearing or prosperity. 2.Faith vs. Human Effort: The chapter illustrates the tension between waiting on God and taking matters into one's hands. 3.Family Dynamics: The rivalry between Rachel and Leah showcases the complexities and struggles within Jacob's family, yet God uses their imperfections to accomplish His purposes. 4.Fulfillment of the Covenant: The children born to Jacob become the twelve tribes of Israel, furthering God's covenant with Abraham. Applications for Today 1.Trust in God's Timing: Like Rachel and Leah, we may struggle with waiting for God to act, but His plans are always perfect. 2.Avoid Envy and Strife: Rivalry and jealousy can fracture relationships, but unity and trust in God lead to peace. 3.God Uses Imperfect People: Despite their flaws, Jacob and his family are part of God's redemptive plan, encouraging us that God can use anyone for His purposes. Genesis 30 is a powerful reminder that God remains faithful to His promises, even when human actions are flawed and motivations are self-centered. It encourages us to rely on God's sovereignty and trust in His provision.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Are you ready for something a little different? Our latest episode of the Ease Anxiety Podcast offers a unique experience that might just change the way you understand and interact with your anxiety.This isn't your typical podcast episode—I'm inviting you to carve out just 15 minutes of uninterrupted time to join me in a guided anxiety body scan. This isn't something you'll want to listen to while driving or multitasking. Instead, find a quiet spot where you can relax and fully immerse yourself.In this episode, we're diving deep into a practice designed to help you tune into your body and listen to the messages your anxiety is trying to convey. Often, we rush to label our anxiety as something to be feared or pushed away. But what if, instead, we paused, listened, and simply observed it without judgment?Here's what you'll experience:A Calming, Guided Meditation: I'll walk you through a body scan that will help you notice where anxiety shows up in your body without the urge to fix or judge it.A Deeper Understanding: As you connect with your body, you might discover thoughts and memories tied to your anxiety—clues to what it's trying to bring to your attention.A Space for Reflection: This quiet exploration could reveal deeper layers of your anxiety, offering insights into past events, core beliefs, or issues you've been avoiding.This is more than just a relaxation exercise; it's an opportunity to uncover what your anxiety is truly trying to say. When we allow ourselves to be still and open, anxiety becomes less of a burden and more of a guide.Grab your copy of The Gift of Anxiety: Harnessing The EASE Method to Turn Stuck Anxiety into Your Greatest Ally by clicking here: https://www.theunstuckinitiative.com/book To connect with Diante, you can visit her free FB community: Overcoming Anxiety✨ | Follow her on Instagram: the.unstuck.initiative or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.unstuck.initiative

Send us a textSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessEPISODE NOTES:Introduction to DeuteronomyBook Overview: Deuteronomy is traditionally seen as a series of sermons delivered by Moses to the Israelites before his death. These sermons reflect on the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the edge of the Promised Land, emphasizing obedience to God's law as they prepare to enter the land.Structure: The book can be divided into three primary sermons. Chapter 1 begins with the historical context, setting the stage for the first sermon.Setting the Scene (Deuteronomy 1:1-5)Book Overview:Structure: God's Faithfulness at Sinai (Deuteronomy 1:6-18)Command to Move Forward: Fulfillment of God's Promise:Establishment of Judges: Leadership Lessons:Failure at Kadesh Barnea (Deuteronomy 1:19-46)Reaching the Promised Land: The Spies' Report: Consequences of Disobedience:Key Lessons and Theological ThemesTrust in God's Promises: The Israelites' failure at Kadesh Barnea serves as a warning against allowing fear and doubt to override faith in God's promises.God's Justice and Discipline: God's response to the Israelites' rebellion illustrates His justice. Even Moses is not exempt from the consequences of disobedience.The Age of Accountability: The passage hints at the concept of the "age of accountability" through the promise that the children, who were too young to understand good and evil, would inherit the land.Application for TodayFaith vs. Fear: The account of Israel at Kadesh Barnea challenges believers to trust God's promises, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.Importance of Obedience: Disobedience, especially when rooted in fear, can lead to missed opportunities and the loss of God's blessings.Leadership and Delegation: Effective leadership involves recognizing one's limits and wisely delegating responsibilities to others, just as Moses did.ConclusionGod's Unwavering Faithfulness: Despite Israel's repeated failures, God's faithfulness remains evident. He continues to guide, discipline, and ultimately fulfill His promises to His people.Reflection: This passage from Deuteronomy is not just historical; it serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of trusting in God, obeying His commands, and recognizing His faithfulness, even when we fall short.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Episode Overview: In this episode, George and Nick dive into critical nonprofit news, including Elon Musk's legal battle with a nonprofit advertising group, the financial struggles of tech nonprofits post-pandemic, and a wave of funding cuts impacting local nonprofits. They also share updates on the digital divide and a unique initiative in Kansas to claim unclaimed property for nonprofits. Key Topics and Insights: 1. Elon Musk's Legal Battle with GARM Story: The Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM), a nonprofit advertising initiative, has ceased operations due to a lawsuit from Elon Musk's social media platform, X. Impact: GARM's shutdown underscores the immense legal pressures nonprofits can face, especially when challenged by well-funded entities like X. Quote: "It's a tough time to be in journalism, especially for nonprofits trying to report on things... you can weaponize the legal system to file a lawsuit against things that you feel are damaging." Reflection: This case highlights the vulnerability of nonprofits to legal intimidation and the need for financial resilience to withstand such challenges. 2. Tech Nonprofits Closing Post-Pandemic Story: Several tech-focused nonprofits, including Venture for America and Women Who Code, have shut down due to drastic revenue drops following a pandemic-induced surge. Insight: The fluctuation in funding and the inability to scale back effectively post-surge led to these closures. Quote: "There's nothing sadder than actually going out of business because of that moment of success." Reflection: The story serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of rapid, unsustainable growth and the importance of financial planning. 3. United Way Funding Cuts in Rochester Story: The United Way of Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes has drastically reduced funding, approving only $6 million out of $35 million in grant applications. Impact: Essential services like Foodlink, a local food bank, are severely affected, highlighting the ongoing challenges nonprofits face in securing steady funding. Quote: "The trickle-down effect is definitely being seen." Reflection: This scenario underscores the broader economic pressures on nonprofits and the crucial role of consistent donor support. 4. Kansas Initiative for Unclaimed Property Story: Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson announced a week-long initiative to help nonprofits claim over $640 million in unclaimed property. Opportunity: Nonprofits have the chance to recover forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, and insurance proceeds. Quote: "Don't leave money on the table... check your own stuff." Reflection: This initiative is a reminder for nonprofits to explore all potential funding sources, including unclaimed property. 5. Bridging the Digital Divide in Atlanta Story: CompuDopt is working to provide technology access to families in need, addressing the digital divide exacerbated by the pandemic. Impact: Ensuring access to laptops and Wi-Fi is crucial for educational and economic opportunities. Quote: "Technology access is becoming more and more a differentiator." Reflection: Efforts to bridge the digital divide are essential for equity and inclusion in the modern world.

Episode Overview: In this episode, George and Nick dive into critical nonprofit news, including Elon Musk's legal battle with a nonprofit advertising group, the financial struggles of tech nonprofits post-pandemic, and a wave of funding cuts impacting local nonprofits. They also share updates on the digital divide and a unique initiative in Kansas to claim unclaimed property for nonprofits. Key Topics and Insights: 1. Elon Musk's Legal Battle with GARM Story: The Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM), a nonprofit advertising initiative, has ceased operations due to a lawsuit from Elon Musk's social media platform, X. Impact: GARM's shutdown underscores the immense legal pressures nonprofits can face, especially when challenged by well-funded entities like X. Quote: "It's a tough time to be in journalism, especially for nonprofits trying to report on things... you can weaponize the legal system to file a lawsuit against things that you feel are damaging." Reflection: This case highlights the vulnerability of nonprofits to legal intimidation and the need for financial resilience to withstand such challenges. 2. Tech Nonprofits Closing Post-Pandemic Story: Several tech-focused nonprofits, including Venture for America and Women Who Code, have shut down due to drastic revenue drops following a pandemic-induced surge. Insight: The fluctuation in funding and the inability to scale back effectively post-surge led to these closures. Quote: "There's nothing sadder than actually going out of business because of that moment of success." Reflection: The story serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of rapid, unsustainable growth and the importance of financial planning. 3. United Way Funding Cuts in Rochester Story: The United Way of Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes has drastically reduced funding, approving only $6 million out of $35 million in grant applications. Impact: Essential services like Foodlink, a local food bank, are severely affected, highlighting the ongoing challenges nonprofits face in securing steady funding. Quote: "The trickle-down effect is definitely being seen." Reflection: This scenario underscores the broader economic pressures on nonprofits and the crucial role of consistent donor support. 4. Kansas Initiative for Unclaimed Property Story: Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson announced a week-long initiative to help nonprofits claim over $640 million in unclaimed property. Opportunity: Nonprofits have the chance to recover forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, and insurance proceeds. Quote: "Don't leave money on the table... check your own stuff." Reflection: This initiative is a reminder for nonprofits to explore all potential funding sources, including unclaimed property. 5. Bridging the Digital Divide in Atlanta Story: CompuDopt is working to provide technology access to families in need, addressing the digital divide exacerbated by the pandemic. Impact: Ensuring access to laptops and Wi-Fi is crucial for educational and economic opportunities. Quote: "Technology access is becoming more and more a differentiator." Reflection: Efforts to bridge the digital divide are essential for equity and inclusion in the modern world.

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lectionary: 399The Saint of the day is Saints Joachim and AnneSaints Joachim and Anne’s Story In the Scriptures, Matthew and Luke furnish a legal family history of Jesus, tracing ancestry to show that Jesus is the culmination of great promises. Not only is his mother's family neglected, we also know nothing factual about them except that they existed. Even the names “Joachim” and “Anne” come from a legendary source written more than a century after Jesus died. The heroism and holiness of these people however, is inferred from the whole family atmosphere around Mary in the Scriptures. Whether we rely on the legends about Mary's childhood or make guesses from the information in the Bible, we see in her a fulfillment of many generations of prayerful persons, herself steeped in the religious traditions of her people. The strong character of Mary in making decisions, her continuous practice of prayer, her devotion to the laws of her faith, her steadiness at moments of crisis, and her devotion to her relatives—all indicate a close-knit, loving family that looked forward to the next generation even while retaining the best of the past. Joachim and Anne—whether these are their real names or not—represent that entire quiet series of generations who faithfully perform their duties, practice their faith, and establish an atmosphere for the coming of the Messiah, but remain obscure. Reflection This is the “feast of grandparents.” It reminds grandparents of their responsibility to establish a tone for generations to come: They must make the traditions live and offer them as a promise to little children. But the feast has a message for the younger generation as well. It reminds the young that older people's greater perspective, depth of experience, and appreciation of life's profound rhythms are all part of a wisdom not to be taken lightly or ignored. Saints Joachim and Anne are the Patron Saints of: Grandparents Saint Anne is the Patron Saint of: MothersWomen in Labor Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Gospel Matthew 12:14-21 The Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many people followed him, and he cured them all, but he warned them not to make him known. This was to fulfill what had been spoken through Isaiah the prophet: Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom I delight; I shall place my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not contend or cry out, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. And in his name the Gentiles will hope. Reflection This gospel carries with it the image of the final major conflict between the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Pharisees see Jesus as a great threat to their system, and they're deciding they must kill him. Jesus realizes this, and he's not retaliating. He's not angry. He's not calling upon angels to go and destroy these people. No, he simply continues to do his work, to be with people, to heal them of their diseases and their shortcomings. He's a gentle, loving man. And it's clear that from the very beginning of the revelations in the Old Testament, we see a prophet coming who is radically different than the prophets of the Old Testament. No fire and brimstone, no threats, no condemnation, just a loving, giving figure who represents who the father really is. Please ponder this reflection and in a few moments I will close with a prayer. Closing Prayer Father, you teach us in so many ways, often by a story like this, where we're just watching you respond to something that you should have this negative overflow of emotion. And yet there you are, back at doing just what you came to do. Keep us focused on what we came in this world to do. The thing you've asked us to do to heal, to help, to be there for one another. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel Matthew. 8:1-4 When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it.  Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately. Then Jesus said to him, “See that you tell no one, but go show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.”Reflection This story makes clear that if we see Jesus as who he says he is, if we believe that he can do what he promises to do, we will receive that gift. That's the promise. Closing Prayer Father, it's hard for us to believe in your love for us, especially in our sinfulness and our disease. But give us that faith that this leper had, that knows that your desire is not to ever condemn us, but only to heal and free us. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel Matthew 6:7-15 Jesus said to his disciples:“In praying, do not babble like the pagans,who think that they will be heard because of their many words.Do not be like them.Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. “This is how you are to pray: ‘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;and forgive us our trespasses,as we forgive those who trespass against us;and lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from evil.' “If you forgive others their transgressions,your heavenly Father will forgive you.But if you do not forgive others,neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.” Reflection This prayer is a summary of the kingdom of God that Jesus came to establish here on this earth. It's a kingdom where God is in charge. It's a kingdom where we are fed and nourished, cared for. And it's a kingdom that gives us power over sin. And what's so clear that is being said, by especially the last part of this passage, is the most important truth in the Kingdom is you have to allow God to forgive you. If you don't allow God to forgive you, it is impossible for you to forgive others their sins. Closing Prayer Father, free us from constantly thinking about how we can earn your attention, your love, your affection. Give us the wisdom to know the value of your unmerited love pouring into us every single day, every hour of every day. We stand forgiven. And when we have that gift, we can establish the Kingdom of God. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel John 21:15-19 After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs." He then said to Simon Peter a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, "Follow me.” Reflection This is one of the first appearances of Jesus to his disciples after he is risen. And what we see in it is a way that Jesus is preparing Peter for his role as the leader of the community, that he is founding. And when he says, I want you to do something, I want you to take care of people. But he uses two images that I think are really interesting. I want you to feed them and tend them. What's the difference? One is making sure of everything that they need that they have. Give them the truth. Give them what they need. But tending is like a bending over and a caring for how they're doing on their journey. It's a thing that we often don't find enough in the religious world that I live in. It's more about feeding them, sending them out. But the tending is at the heart of what I think Jesus is asking all of us to do. Closing Prayer Father, to tell someone what they should believe, or what they should do is one thing, but to give them what they need to be able to do it, is another. And then to stay with them as they struggle is even another very important part. Keep us in that mode of feeding and tending and being there for each other. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel John 17:20-26 Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying: "I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.” Reflection This passage in John makes one of the most important teachings of Jesus more real for us. The incarnation is Jesus coming into the world, and we know that he came in as a human being, but he also came as a God. He was both human and divine. The model that he is giving us is a model of friendship, of relationships, of love. Just as a father is in Jesus, Jesus is in the Father. So Jesus is in his disciples and disciples are in Jesus, and just as friends are in each other, they become one. It's a great mystery, and it makes clear that the work that we have is to surrender to reality, not to try to create something, but to allow a mystery to be real, to be lived, to be understood. Closing Prayer Father, we have a hard time in relationships. Often we find them difficult because we are trying to make them into what we think they should be, or we're trying to control the other person. Help us to enter into this mystery of oneness. Fill us with compassion, understanding, and a desire that all of us grow together in unity. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel John 16:23b-28 Jesus said to his disciples:“Amen, amen, I say to you,whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.Until now you have not asked anything in my name;ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. “I have told you this in figures of speech.The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figuresbut I will tell you clearly about the Father.On that day you will ask in my name,and I do not tell you that I will ask the Father for you.For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved meand have come to believe that I came from God.I came from the Father and have come into the world.Now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.” Reflection This proclamation on the part of Jesus to his disciples is very profound. There must have been many times when the disciples asked Jesus, please pray to God for us. And when he says, Here, I no longer am going to ask the father for you. You could ask the father directly. And the image is so clear that there has been a bonding with human race and God the Father that has been revealed in the ministry of Jesus. No one ever dreamt that the father loves us as much as Jesus proved that he loved us through giving us his only begotten son, the highest form of love. So we need to take from this passage, and from everything that Jesus is really working on, is repairing and deepening and enriching our relationship with God who lives in our hearts, resonates his love. We no longer have to ask someone else to ask God for us. We talk directly to him. Closing Prayer Father, it's hard for us to imagine that what you're really, really asking of us is that we allow you to love us. Meaning, we open our heart, or mind, our will to the awesome belief that you are deeply, deeply in love with us and want nothing, nothing more than us to be ultimately with you forever. Keep us in touch with this great gift. and we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Send us a Text Message.Inspiring Change with Ray Cash Care on the Adventure Diaries PodcastAdventure seekers and personal growth enthusiasts, gear up for an inspiring journey with Ray Cash Care on the "Adventure Diaries" podcast hosted by Chris Watson. In a candid episode, Care shares profound insights on pushing beyond the boundaries of comfort to transform all facets of life—family, fitness, finances, and faith.Ray Cash Care, a former Navy SEAL, brings a no-nonsense approach to personal development. His philosophy is straightforward yet powerful: engage in self-reflection and commit to action. Whether you aspire to enhance your family relationships or elevate your fitness regime, Care's advice is to simply start with one aspect and make tangible improvements.Family and Relationships: Care emphasizes the importance of being an exemplary husband and father. His advice is practical: pick an area to improve upon, write it down, and commit to it. This simple act of writing intentions can propel you from contemplation to real-world action.Fitness: For those looking to inject some adventure into their routines, Care challenges listeners to rise from complacency and embrace physical activity. His rule is uncompromising: get up, move, and keep pushing your limits, even when your motivation wanes.Finances: Building wealth, according to Care, isn't just about amassing money; it's about fostering rich relationships. His unconventional guidance involves meeting new people daily and mastering the art of a firm handshake—a metaphor for taking charge of both your financial and social engagements.Faith: The cornerstone of Care's message is self-belief. Amidst a world of competition and superficial encouragement, believing in oneself is the ultimate act of faith. He encourages listeners to bet on themselves, a testament to the power of self-assurance.In addition to personal advancement, Care passionately speaks about giving back, particularly through supporting veterans and cancer research. His involvement with S4Vets, an organization providing service dogs for veterans with PTSD, showcases his commitment to actionable charity—a theme resonant throughout the podcast.Chris Watson, with his insightful questions and engaging demeanor, ensures that each topic discussed with Care is accessible and impactful for all listeners. From practical life tips to deeper philosophical discussions, this episode of "Adventure Diaries" serves as a beacon for anyone looking to embrace adventure in every aspect of life.Reflection:This episode isn't just a dialogue; it's a roadmap to personal revolution. It challenges you to examine your life through a lens of proactive change and supports you in the journey towards a more fulfilling and adventurous existence.Don't miss this transformative episode of the "Adventure Diaries" with Ray Cash High-Powered. Tune in, get inspired, and take your first step towards a life of purpose and adventure.Support the Show.Thanks For Listening.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a comment and subscribe for more exciting content. Follow us https://linktr.ee/adventurediaries for updates. Have a topic suggestion? Email us at ideas@adventurediaries.com. AdventureDiaries.com#AdventureDiaries #AdventureStories #NationalGeographic #Discovery #NaturalWorld

Gospel John 16:12-15 Jesus said to his disciples: "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.” Reflection This passage, in a way, underscores the need for something like the Holy Spirit, because we cannot understand and accept the fullness of reality when we simply aren't ready. And the readiness is something that comes about slowly. It is a growth in understanding in consciousness of how the world works, who God is and who we are in him. And the more that evolves, the more open we become to the depth of the mysteries that have to become a part of us. The Holy Spirit's work is to guide us on that journey. Closing Prayer Father, we continue to evolve. To change. To be open to more things than we ever thought we could ever understand. So bless us with patience and understanding of how this all works. So that we can be truly receptive to each new insight that the Holy Spirit sends to us. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel John 10:22-30 The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father's name testify to me. But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's hand. The Father and I are one.” Reflection This encounter between the Pharisees and Jesus happens on a feast day that remembers the dedication of the temple. The temple was everything to the Jews. It was a sign of their strength and their power. And it was grounded in a story of the Old Testament, an Old Covenant. And the rigidity of that covenant was found in the law and Jesus came to destroy the law and open up a different way of approaching life and no longer looking to something you're told to do, but rather open to something that God wants you to become. The truth. You are free of the law, you are encountering on a daily basis the holy of holies that was hidden, kept from many in the center of the temple. The temple is now your heart and God lives there. Closing Prayer Father, give us patience with those who refuse to see the truth. Let us pray for them and ask God to bless them, to break open the place they are hiding in. They don't want to be free. They don't want to see. Help us to be agents that free them so they can experience the fullness of the teaching of God, the fullness of love. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel Mark 16:9-15 When Jesus had risen, early on the first day of the week,he appeared first to Mary Magdalene,out of whom he had driven seven demons.She went and told his companions who were mourning and weeping.When they heard that he was aliveand had been seen by her, they did not believe. After this he appeared in another formto two of them walking along on their way to the country.They returned and told the others;but they did not believe them either. But later, as the Eleven were at table, he appeared to themand rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heartbecause they had not believed thosewho saw him after he had been raised.He said to them, “Go into the whole worldand proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” Reflection This gospel is a perfect review of what we've just listened to through the Scriptures of this week. Jesus first appeared to a single individual, and then He appeared to two people, and then he appeared to his disciples. And now we see in this story, when he's with his disciples and he sees that this process of it growing from person to person is what he is so excited to invite his disciples to participate in. He makes it clear that belief is everything, you need to believe in what he is teaching. New life comes through this mystery of who God is in Christ and how we are asked to live that same life. It's a message of great hope. And it's going out to everything that God created. Everything will be made new. Everything will be made as God created it originally. When he always said after every day he created, it is so very, very good. Closing Prayer Father, we see so much in this week your intention You long for your kingdom to come. Everything you created you've told us is good. So let us believe that we are participating in this marvelous work of creating a new heaven and a new earth. You guide us, you feed us, and all you ask is we believe. We believe in who you are and what you've promised. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel John 13:21-33, 36-38 Reclining at table with his disciples, Jesus was deeply troubled and testified, "Amen, amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me." The disciples looked at one another, at a loss as to whom he meant. One of his disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at Jesus' side. So Simon Peter nodded to him to find out whom he meant. He leaned back against Jesus' chest and said to him, "Master, who is it?" Jesus answered, "It is the one to whom I hand the morsel after I have dipped it." So he dipped the morsel and took it and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot. After Judas took the morsel, Satan entered him. So Jesus said to him, "What you are going to do, do quickly." Now none of those reclining at table realized why he said this to him. Some thought that since Judas kept the money bag, Jesus had told him, "Buy what we need for the feast," or to give something to the poor. So Judas took the morsel and left at once. And it was night. When he had left, Jesus said, "Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and he will glorify him at once. My children, I will be with you only a little while longer. You will look for me, and as I told the Jews, 'Where I go you cannot come,' so now I say it to you." Simon Peter said to him, "Master, where are you going?" Jesus answered him, "Where I am going, you cannot follow me now, though you will follow later." Peter said to him, "Master, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you." Jesus answered, "Will you lay down your life for me? Amen, amen, I say to you, the cock will not crow before you deny me three times.” Reflection This is one of the most dramatic moments in Scripture. It's a confrontation between goodness and evil. And many people ask, you know, why did this happen? Why was Judas turning toward the evil? I mean, it's like there was no more holy environment in which to grow and change than this tiny group of people listening every day to the work and seeing the majesty of Jesus. How could evil get into that? How is evil a part of the world? And we have to understand that in the plan of Jesus, in the plan that's been revealed to us. Evil has a place. And when Jesus said, this is the way it's written, I think that's what he's really saying. The work that we have is a struggle, and we know that we have a power much greater than any evil. But when it's there, we have to name it and ask it to leave Closing Prayer Father, mystery of imperfection Evil is very difficult for us to grasp. We tend to think that you want us to be free completely of all evil. But that's not your plan. It comes in. We struggle with it. We learn from it. Help us not to be afraid of the fact that, yes, like the disciples themselves, we get caught up sometimes in a way of seeing the world and the what we need over what should be done for others. We get lost in that. Give us patience with ourselves as Jesus had patience with Judas. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Full Text of ReadingsMonday of the Second Week in Lent Lectionary: 230The Saint of the day is Saint Maria Bertilla BoscardinSaint Maria Bertilla Boscardin's Story If anyone knew rejection, ridicule and disappointment, it was today's saint. But such trials only brought Maria Bertilla Boscardin closer to God and more determined to serve him. Born in Italy in 1888, the young girl lived in fear of her father, a violent man prone to jealousy and drunkenness. Her schooling was limited so that she could spend more time helping at home and working in the fields. She showed few talents and was often the butt of jokes. In 1904, she joined the Sisters of Saint Dorothy and was assigned to work in the kitchen, bakery and laundry. After some time Maria received nurses' training and began working in a hospital with children suffering from diphtheria. There the young nun seemed to find her true vocation: nursing very ill and disturbed children. Later, when the hospital was taken over by the military in World War I, Sister Maria Bertilla fearlessly cared for patients amidst the threat of constant air raids and bombings. She died in 1922 after suffering for many years from a painful tumor. Some of the patients she had nursed many years before were present at her canonization in 1961. Reflection This fairly recent saint knew the hardships of living in an abusive situation. Let us pray to her to help all those who are suffering from any form of spiritual, mental, or physical abuse. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Gospel Mark 8:1-10 In those days when there again was a great crowd without anything to eat, Jesus summoned the disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. If I send them away hungry to their homes, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a great distance.” His disciples answered him, “Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?” Still he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They replied, “Seven.” He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then, taking the seven loaves he gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to distribute, and they distributed them to the crowd. They also had a few fish. He said the blessing over them and ordered them distributed also. They ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets. There were about four thousand people. He dismissed the crowd and got into the boat with his disciples and came to the region of Dalmanutha. Reflection This is the only miracle that is found in all four of the Gospels. It what it is, is God caring for the physical needs of those who longed to follow him. When we think of it, we think maybe we are not supposed to pray for things like, you know, food or money or a better house or whatever. But there's nothing wrong with asking God to give us the things that enable us to live the life that we long to live for him. And it's all right to pray for things that are material. That's the world we live in. That's the world Jesus recognizes as something that He wants to be a source of caring for our needs. Expect him to do that. Trust in him to answer your prayers. Closing Prayer Father, we are spiritual beings, but we are also physical beings that live in this world. Help us to know that you're interested in caring for us in both areas. You want us to grow as a spiritual being capable of doing your work and you want us to be comfortable and to live in a place that honors our dignity and our worth. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Greenberg, the creator of EFT, specified six principles of the approach:1. Emotional awareness: The first step involves knowing what you're feeling. Naming what you feel can help you reconnect to your needs.2. Emotional expression: EFT seeks to help you overcome emotional avoidance, often by dismantling unhelpful beliefs, like "Anger is dangerous," that prevent you from healthy emotional expression.3. Reflection: This component involves reflecting on the "why" behind your emotions. A better understanding of where they come from and what triggers them can help you work through them.4. Regulation: This key element of EFT involves increasing your ability to self-soothe when powerful emotions come up, rather than letting them take over. Your therapist might teach you distraction, breathing, and positive self-talk techniques to use in emotionally distressing situations.5. Corrective emotional experiences: This involves dealing with unhelpful emotions in new ways. For example, a therapist can teach you how to replace shame or self-disgust with a more healing emotion, like acceptance.6. Transformation: You work to achieve this by tapping into a different emotion to transform one that's not serving you. Say you experience fear after a traumatic event. You might instead lean into your underlying anger, a more active emotion you can channel into defining personal boundaries or identifying red flags. This may feel more empowering than feeling trapped by a passive emotion, like fear.GET AN OCCASIONAL PERSONAL EMAIL FROM ME: www.makeyourdamnbedpodcast.comTUNE IN ON INSTAGRAM FOR COOL CONTENT: www.instagram.com/mydbpodcastOR BE A REAL GEM + TUNE IN ON PATREON: www.patreon.com/MYDBpodcastOR WATCH ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/juliemerica The opinions expressed by Julie Merica and Make Your Damn Bed Podcast are intended for entertainment purposes only. Make Your Damn Bed podcast is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Get bonus content on PatreonSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/make-your-damn-bed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gospel Mark 5:1-20 Jesus and his disciples came to the other side of the sea, to the territory of the Gerasenes. When he got out of the boat, at once a man from the tombs who had an unclean spirit met him. The man had been dwelling among the tombs, and no one could restrain him any longer, even with a chain. In fact, he had frequently been bound with shackles and chains, but the chains had been pulled apart by him and the shackles smashed, and no one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the hillsides he was always crying out and bruising himself with stones. Catching sight of Jesus from a distance, he ran up and prostrated himself before him, crying out in a loud voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me!" (He had been saying to him, "Unclean spirit, come out of the man!") He asked him, "What is your name?" He replied, "Legion is my name. There are many of us." And he pleaded earnestly with him not to drive them away from that territory. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside. And they pleaded with him, "Send us into the swine. Let us enter them." And he let them, and the unclean spirits came out and entered the swine. The herd of about two thousand rushed down a steep bank into the sea, where they were drowned. The swineherds ran away and reported the incident in the town and throughout the countryside. And people came out to see what had happened. As they approached Jesus, they caught sight of the man who had been possessed by Legion, sitting there clothed and in his right mind. And they were seized with fear. Those who witnessed the incident explained to them what had happened to the possessed man and to the swine. Then they began to beg him to leave their district. As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed pleaded to remain with him. But Jesus would not permit him but told him instead, "Go home to your family and announce to them all that the Lord in his pity has done for you." Then the man went off and began to proclaim in the Decapolis what Jesus had done for him; and all were amazed. Reflection This is the beginning of the Gospel of Mark, and it's clear that he makes us aware that Jesus came into the world to destroy a power, the power of evil. And it's fascinating in this story that we see this evil being so aware that God has somehow come in the presence of Jesus into the presence of this evil, and He doesn't have a chance, even cries out to God, don't destroy us, please. And Jesus does his destructive work, his best work. And the interesting thing about the people who watch this, instead of saying, this is wonderful, this is wonderful news. They were terrified. They asked him to leave. They didn't understand some power like this over evil. It's interesting that they were frightened by his power. We need to grasp and understand the power that God has given to you and to me, that we have power over evil because of our redemption. And we can't run or ignore that great promise. Closing Prayer Father, we constantly struggle with weaknesses, and we wonder so often why we are plagued by these shortcomings, and we turn to you always. And we need to understand your power over anything that's seeking to destroy us is stronger than that which destroys us. So we should have confidence as we struggle against those weaknesses, knowing that they will ultimately have no power over us. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gospel Luke 1:57-66 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, "No. He will be called John." But they answered her, "There is no one among your relatives who has this name." So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be? For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.” Reflection This passage of Luke has a way of affirming our faith in the stories that we are listening to because those stories were first spoken of before they actually happened. And it's interesting to look at when it did happen, how it was really engaging for people to wonder about. I mean, yeah, she was never able to have a child. She was well past the time of childbirth. And now she has a son and she's the one that said he should be named John, and his father agreed. I mean, that would also be a small miracle. So what we're looking at is the ways in which God works. He creates a situation that seems impossible. And then we have the gift of being able to experience it. And it's so important then to ponder what it means because it's more than just the action. It's what it signifies. That's the challenge. What does it mean that John the Baptist is called God is Gracious? Closing Prayer Father, we know that you are working in the world. We know that things are happening that are way beyond any of us to understand how, but we can understand perhaps why and what it's teaching us, and what it's showing us. So again, we ask for curiosity, wonder, awe, as we reflect upon these events in history and know that they're continuing to act out, they are continuing to be present in our world today. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

Full Text of ReadingsSolemnity of All Saints Lectionary: 667The Saint of the day is Solemnity of All SaintsThe Story of the Solemnity of All Saints The earliest certain observance of a feast in honor of all the saints is an early fourth-century commemoration of “all the martyrs.” In the early seventh century, after successive waves of invaders plundered the catacombs, Pope Boniface IV gathered up some 28 wagon-loads of bones and reinterred them beneath the Pantheon, a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods. The pope rededicated the shrine as a Christian church. According to Venerable Bede, the pope intended “that the memory of all the saints might in the future be honored in the place which had formerly been dedicated to the worship not of gods but of demons” (On the Calculation of Time). But the rededication of the Pantheon, like the earlier commemoration of all the martyrs, occurred in May. Many Eastern Churches still honor all the saints in the spring, either during the Easter season or immediately after Pentecost. How the Western Church came to celebrate this feast, now recognized as a solemnity, in November is a puzzle to historians. The Anglo-Saxon theologian Alcuin observed the feast on November 1 in 800, as did his friend Arno, Bishop of Salzburg. Rome finally adopted that date in the ninth century. Reflection This feast first honored martyrs. Later, when Christians were free to worship according to their consciences, the Church acknowledged other paths to sanctity. In the early centuries the only criterion was popular acclaim, even when the bishop's approval became the final step in placing a commemoration on the calendar. The first papal canonization occurred in 993; the lengthy process now required to prove extraordinary sanctity took form in the last 500 years. Today's feast honors the obscure as well as the famous—the saints each of us have known. Enjoy this meditation on the Feast of All Saints! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lectionary: 397The Saint of the day is Saints Joachim and AnneSaints Joachim and Anne’s Story In the Scriptures, Matthew and Luke furnish a legal family history of Jesus, tracing ancestry to show that Jesus is the culmination of great promises. Not only is his mother's family neglected, we also know nothing factual about them except that they existed. Even the names “Joachim” and “Anne” come from a legendary source written more than a century after Jesus died. The heroism and holiness of these people however, is inferred from the whole family atmosphere around Mary in the Scriptures. Whether we rely on the legends about Mary's childhood or make guesses from the information in the Bible, we see in her a fulfillment of many generations of prayerful persons, herself steeped in the religious traditions of her people. The strong character of Mary in making decisions, her continuous practice of prayer, her devotion to the laws of her faith, her steadiness at moments of crisis, and her devotion to her relatives—all indicate a close-knit, loving family that looked forward to the next generation even while retaining the best of the past. Joachim and Anne—whether these are their real names or not—represent that entire quiet series of generations who faithfully perform their duties, practice their faith, and establish an atmosphere for the coming of the Messiah, but remain obscure. Reflection This is the “feast of grandparents.” It reminds grandparents of their responsibility to establish a tone for generations to come: They must make the traditions live and offer them as a promise to little children. But the feast has a message for the younger generation as well. It reminds the young that older people's greater perspective, depth of experience, and appreciation of life's profound rhythms are all part of a wisdom not to be taken lightly or ignored. Saints Joachim and Anne are the Patron Saints of: Grandparents Saint Anne is the Patron Saint of: MothersWomen in Labor Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Gospel John 6:22-29 [After Jesus had fed the five thousand men, his disciples saw him walking on the sea.] The next day, the crowd that remained across the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not gone along with his disciples in the boat, but only his disciples had left. Other boats came from Tiberias near the place where they had eaten the bread when the Lord gave thanks. When the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into boats and came to Capernaum looking for Jesus. And when they found him across the sea they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you get here?" Jesus answered them and said, "Amen, amen, I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled. Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him the Father, God, has set his seal." So they said to him, "What can we do to accomplish the works of God?" Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in the one he sent."Reflection This gospel opens our hearts to what the work of God really is. You look at the history of God working with human beings, and one of the things He did to manifest His love was to provide for their needs. But that's not the work of God to make our life better or easier. The real work is that He wants you and me to believe. And he promises. Faith and faith is belief. It's a gift. It's the work of God. The Closing prayer Father, we can't make ourselves believe something, but we can say we're open to receiving it. Bless us with that kind of trust and openness in this message, that believes that it's true without understanding how or where or what it really fully is. Give us that kind of faith. Amen.

Gospel John 3:31-36 The one who comes from above is above all. The one who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of earthly things. But the one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever does accept his testimony certifies that God is trustworthy. For the one whom God sent speaks the words of God. He does not ration his gift of the Spirit. The Father loves the Son and has given everything over to him. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him. Reflection This gospel ends with the phrase If you do not believe in the Son of God, then God's wrath remains upon you. It's a phrase that seems so much more attuned to John the Baptist and many scripture scholars think that's what Jesus was doing, quoting him. But in either case, what you need to know and what you need to believe is the one who comes from heaven, the one who has the authority to save us and to call us into new life. He's more powerful than anything else in the world. And our ability to believe in him is even a gift. So trust. Trust in the words. Even if you don't understand them and know they have great power to save. The Closing prayer Father, your words have life, have spirit within them. Help us to ponder them, to wonder about them, not to figure them out, but to let them rest in our hearts so that we feel the gifts of peace and the gift of wonder. And we ask this in Jesus name, Amen.

Gospel John 21:1-14 Jesus revealed himself again to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself in this way. Together were Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, Zebedee's sons, and two others of his disciples. Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We also will come with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. When it was already dawn, Jesus was standing on the shore; but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, "Children, have you caught anything to eat?" They answered him, "No." So he said to them, "Cast the net over the right side of the boat and you will find something." So they cast it, and were not able to pull it in because of the number of fish. So the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord." When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he tucked in his garment, for he was lightly clad, and jumped into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, for they were not far from shore, only about a hundred yards, dragging the net with the fish. When they climbed out on shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish on it and bread. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you just caught." So Simon Peter went over and dragged the net ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish. Even though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, "Come, have breakfast." And none of the disciples dared to ask him, "Who are you?" because they realized it was the Lord. Jesus came over and took the bread and gave it to them, and in like manner the fish. This was now the third time Jesus was revealed to his disciples after being raised from the dead. Reflection This is my favorite appearance of Jesus after his death. And it's maybe because it seems like a thing a friend might do. Call you up and say, Let's have breakfast. I want to talk about something. But the thing I find fascinating about this is that only one of the disciples figured out because of the miraculous catch of fish, that that must be Jesus. And the fact that they went and had breakfast with Him, but never made reference that it was Jesus somehow says to me that this is the way in which the church, all of us people are going to find this Jesus in a man who is doing something that is moving. That is inspiring. It is worth imitating. Think about it. When you have breakfast with someone, are you having breakfast with Jesus? The Closing prayer Father, let us recognize you and the ones around us. The ones that we are called by God to be in union with as we spend this time on this earth. It's a wonderful thing to know that God uses each of us to feed one another. Amen.

Gospel John 8:1-11 Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. They said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin any more.” Reflection This story is very important for us to understand who Jesus is. He's very unlike the religion at that time, which was interested in condemning people for their sins, even taking life away from them if they sinned. No, Jesus is interested in revealing to someone their sin and the genius of this reading, the way Jesus worked is that it's exposing the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. So not only does he not condemn the woman, but he opens the eyes of those who are sinning. It's the power of forgiveness, and we need to follow it. The Closing prayer Father, please bless us with a gift that is the heart of your ministry. Help us to grow a forgiving heart and only take joy in opening people's minds to who they are, never to condemn who they are. And we ask this in Jesus name, Amen.

Gospel Luke 11:29-32 While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.” Reflection This reading is a common complaint flowing from the heart of Jesus when he would see so often the people that were closest to the temple and closest to the law were distant from him and I mean him as God. So you see the queen of the South, who was the Queen of Sheba and also the Ninevites. They were outsiders. They didn't have any connection with the temple or with God. Yet they were curious and they were interested in him, and what he was saying to them. So the task is very simple. Don't lose your curiosity for God. Don't fall into the trap of just routine. I always go to mass. I go to the sacraments. I say my prayers. Those are all important things. But nothing is more important than being open to the beauty of a conversation. That is your right to have with the God who is slowly revealing himself to you. The Closing prayer The Closing Prayer. Father, awaken us to your presence. Let us listen with intense curiosity and wonder as you speak to us. And we ask this In Jesus name, Amen.

Full Text of ReadingsFirst Sunday of Lent Lectionary: 22The Saint of the day is Saint Maria Bertilla BoscardinSaint Maria Bertilla Boscardin's Story If anyone knew rejection, ridicule and disappointment, it was today's saint. But such trials only brought Maria Bertilla Boscardin closer to God and more determined to serve him. Born in Italy in 1888, the young girl lived in fear of her father, a violent man prone to jealousy and drunkenness. Her schooling was limited so that she could spend more time helping at home and working in the fields. She showed few talents and was often the butt of jokes. In 1904, she joined the Sisters of Saint Dorothy and was assigned to work in the kitchen, bakery and laundry. After some time Maria received nurses' training and began working in a hospital with children suffering from diphtheria. There the young nun seemed to find her true vocation: nursing very ill and disturbed children. Later, when the hospital was taken over by the military in World War I, Sister Maria Bertilla fearlessly cared for patients amidst the threat of constant air raids and bombings. She died in 1922 after suffering for many years from a painful tumor. Some of the patients she had nursed many years before were present at her canonization in 1961. Reflection This fairly recent saint knew the hardships of living in an abusive situation. Let us pray to her to help all those who are suffering from any form of spiritual, mental, or physical abuse. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of ReadingsSolemnity of All Saints Lectionary: 667All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Solemnity of All Saintsof the Solemnity of All Saints The earliest certain observance of a feast in honor of all the saints is an early fourth-century commemoration of “all the martyrs.” In the early seventh century, after successive waves of invaders plundered the catacombs, Pope Boniface IV gathered up some 28 wagon-loads of bones and reinterred them beneath the Pantheon, a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods. The pope rededicated the shrine as a Christian church. According to Venerable Bede, the pope intended “that the memory of all the saints might in the future be honored in the place which had formerly been dedicated to the worship not of gods but of demons” (On the Calculation of Time). But the rededication of the Pantheon, like the earlier commemoration of all the martyrs, occurred in May. Many Eastern Churches still honor all the saints in the spring, either during the Easter season or immediately after Pentecost. How the Western Church came to celebrate this feast, now recognized as a solemnity, in November is a puzzle to historians. The Anglo-Saxon theologian Alcuin observed the feast on November 1 in 800, as did his friend Arno, Bishop of Salzburg. Rome finally adopted that date in the ninth century. Reflection This feast first honored martyrs. Later, when Christians were free to worship according to their consciences, the Church acknowledged other paths to sanctity. In the early centuries the only criterion was popular acclaim, even when the bishop's approval became the final step in placing a commemoration on the calendar. The first papal canonization occurred in 993; the lengthy process now required to prove extraordinary sanctity took form in the last 500 years. Today's feast honors the obscure as well as the famous—the saints each of us have known. Enjoy this meditation on the Feast of All Saints! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Sacred Stories | Our Central American Patient “Care of the sick must rank above and before all else, so that they may truly be served as Christ, for he said, ‘I was sick and you visited me' (Matt 25:36)” and, “What you did for one of these least ones you did for me” (Matt. 25:40).” – Rule of St. Benedict, Chapter 36 A few years ago, a very special patient appeared at our hospital. When he first came, he was weak and his voice was raspy, but he had a story to tell. It was a story of pain and near defeat, but it was also a story of help and hope. The patient told us he had known for a long time that something was wrong. “I went to doctor after doctor and emergency room after emergency room, and it was always the same,” he said. “I would wait for hours, and they would tell me that nothing was wrong. They wouldn't listen to my questions or try to help me. All they saw was another Central American who didn't speak much English. After weeks, I begged God to take away the pain or let me die.” Just as the patient reached the end of his rope, a friend took him to another doctor. That doctor told the patient he was very sick with cancer and needed to get to a hospital right away. “I was afraid to go to another hospital,” he said. “I thought they would make me wait for hours only to tell me to leave. But my friend told me he was going to take me to his hospital, and they would take care of me.” Tears shone in his eyes as a smile wrapped around his face. “The doctors and nurses care for me here. They listen to me and answer my questions. They take time with me and help me understand what is going on. I can feel this is a Christian place, a place where God is served, because of the way I am served.” During the course of the following year, we continued to care for this special patient as he battled his cancer. We helped the patient and his family through the maze of paperwork needed for documentation and insurance, and provided spiritual support. We came to know and love this gentle man and his young family. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts and prayers, the oncologist reached the end of treatment options and the patient was discharged home with hospice care. I went to see the patient one last time before he left the hospital. Weak from the long struggle with cancer, he had a message to share: “Please tell everyone thank you and that I am praying for them,” he said. “Thank God for this hospital!” Yes, thank God for a place where all are treated with compassion and excellence; where everyone is encouraged to look beyond the readily apparent to see the face of God in those we serve. May we always serve all who come here as if we are serving God. Submitted by Betsy Kammerdiener From the Sacred Stories Archive Questions for Reflection This patient said he could “feel that this is… a place where God is served by the way I am served.” How can you serve God in your role? What do you think gets in the way of serving others “as if we are serving God?” How can we encourage and support one another in doing that? Share this Story Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on LinkedInShare by Mail Listen to more Sacred Stories The Gift of CitizenshipJuly 1, 2020/by adminOur Famous PatientJuly 1, 2020/by adminFulfilling a Last RequestAugust 1, 2020/by adminThe Power of Being PresentAugust 1, 2020/by adminA Celebrated FarewellSeptember 1, 2020/by adminGod's Perfect TimingSeptember 1, 2020/by adminGod's Presence in GriefSeptember 28, 2020/by adminCompassion in ActionSeptember 28, 2020/by adminEncourage One AnotherOctober 26, 2020/by adminThe Door is OpenOctober 26, 2020/by adminRestoring the SoulNovember 16, 2020/by adminSacred Stories, Sacred GroundNovember 16, 2020/by adminOur Christmas GiftNovember 30, 2020/by adminMessages Placed in My PathJanuary 8, 2021/by adminBeyond WordsFebruary 1, 2021/by adminCare In the Time of COVID-19March 1, 2021/by adminPrayer of Surrender at the End of LifeMarch 8,

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lectionary: 402All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Saints Joachim and AnneIn the Scriptures, Matthew and Luke furnish a legal family history of Jesus, tracing ancestry to show that Jesus is the culmination of great promises. Not only is his mother's family neglected, we also know nothing factual about them except that they existed. Even the names “Joachim” and “Anne” come from a legendary source written more than a century after Jesus died. The heroism and holiness of these people however, is inferred from the whole family atmosphere around Mary in the Scriptures. Whether we rely on the legends about Mary's childhood or make guesses from the information in the Bible, we see in her a fulfillment of many generations of prayerful persons, herself steeped in the religious traditions of her people. The strong character of Mary in making decisions, her continuous practice of prayer, her devotion to the laws of her faith, her steadiness at moments of crisis, and her devotion to her relatives—all indicate a close-knit, loving family that looked forward to the next generation even while retaining the best of the past. Joachim and Anne—whether these are their real names or not—represent that entire quiet series of generations who faithfully perform their duties, practice their faith, and establish an atmosphere for the coming of the Messiah, but remain obscure. Reflection This is the “feast of grandparents.” It reminds grandparents of their responsibility to establish a tone for generations to come: They must make the traditions live and offer them as a promise to little children. But the feast has a message for the younger generation as well. It reminds the young that older people's greater perspective, depth of experience, and appreciation of life's profound rhythms are all part of a wisdom not to be taken lightly or ignored. Saints Joachim and Anne are the Patron Saints of: Grandparents Saint Anne is the Patron Saint of: Mothers Women in Labor Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

We Love Because He First Loved Us1 John 4:19We love because he first loved us.The most perplexing thing about God is not that He is omniscient, omnipresent or omnipotent. Since He is God, these virtues are somehow given or expected. Otherwise, He wouldn't be known as God.The thing that is the hardest to comprehend is that though He is so powerful and almighty, He is also love! Through the tainted lenses of how we see our world, power and love don't seem to jive.You cannot be powerful and loving at the same time. You must be either one. But our God is both. The extent of His love is fully expressed in the father's unconditional love.Therefore, as children of God, we love because love comes from God. And we can love because He first loved us. Knowing this helps us understand that this love does not originate from us.It is not something birthed out of a desire within us, rather it is a new revelation of where this love comes from.Now that we know where this love comes from, we have a new responsibility. Because no one has seen God, loving people can become a way for people to see God, through us.So when we choose to love, others will see and experience God through us, knowing that God is living in us, and His love is made complete in us.Loving others is not an emotional decision. Rather, it is a spiritually convicted decision. It is now our duty of care as followers of Christ to show others this dimension of love.Remember, we love because He first loved us!Reflection:This love that we now have is one birthed out of the revelation of who God is. Armed with this truth, who do you want to love and how do you plan on doing that?Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.1 John 4:7‭-‬21 NIV

We Love Because He First Loved Us1 John 4:19We love because he first loved us.The most perplexing thing about God is not that He is omniscient, omnipresent or omnipotent. Since He is God, these virtues are somehow given or expected. Otherwise, He wouldn't be known as God.The thing that is the hardest to comprehend is that though He is so powerful and almighty, He is also love! Through the tainted lenses of how we see our world, power and love don't seem to jive.You cannot be powerful and loving at the same time. You must be either one. But our God is both. The extent of His love is fully expressed in the father's unconditional love.Therefore, as children of God, we love because love comes from God. And we can love because He first loved us. Knowing this helps us understand that this love does not originate from us.It is not something birthed out of a desire within us, rather it is a new revelation of where this love comes from.Now that we know where this love comes from, we have a new responsibility. Because no one has seen God, loving people can become a way for people to see God, through us.So when we choose to love, others will see and experience God through us, knowing that God is living in us, and His love is made complete in us.Loving others is not an emotional decision. Rather, it is a spiritually convicted decision. It is now our duty of care as followers of Christ to show others this dimension of love.Remember, we love because He first loved us!Reflection:This love that we now have is one birthed out of the revelation of who God is. Armed with this truth, who do you want to love and how do you plan on doing that?Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.1 John 4:7‭-‬21 NIV

We have infinite potential within. Kinetic or Potential energy is significant in our cosmic evolution Reflection ☀️ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Sacred Stories | Margaret Was Not Alone Preach the gospel always. If necessary, use words. — St. Francis of Assisi The call to serve came about 10 p.m. on a Friday. The chaplain asked if I could come to the hospital to stand vigil as part of the “No One Dies Alone” program. The program had just begun, and the training was still fresh in my mind.  Nervously, I began to ask questions; then, realizing the questions were pointless, I stopped. I was being called to be with someone who was dying, and being present was the purpose. As I drove to the hospital, I thought of my family, counting my blessings. I prayed to God for strength and wisdom. It was one thing to receive training, quite another to put it into action. Again, I had to focus on the sacred act of being present for another person during the profound last act of life. Upon arriving, my worries about being appropriate in the eyes of the medical staff disappeared. They quickly ushered me to the bedside of a woman I'll call Margaret.  The medical staff flew in and out of the room. Equipment, tubes, IV bags, machines and pumps were everywhere, but they graciously made room for me to hold Margaret's hand and speak into her ear. That's when all the training left my brain and I scrambled to remember what to do. Again, I refocused on the sacredness of the moment. The point of my involvement was to be there with Margaret. Once I centered myself and became a human being instead of a human doing, the process flowed. Though Margaret was not conscious, I believe we prayed, sang, cried and laughed together, sharing a sense of helplessness and togetherness. The medical staff worked hard to keep Margaret present until her family arrived. The vigil lasted about three hours, but it seemed like only minutes until the family arrived. After the initial shock of seeing Margaret, her family composed themselves and there was a very peaceful moment. I was able to gently lead one family member to the side of the bed and place Margaret's hand in hers. I told Margaret that her family was with her and I would be leaving. I thanked her for sharing our sacred time together and quietly left. I'll never know just what Margaret could hear or feel, but there was solace and comfort for me, the staff and her family in knowing she was not alone —someone was there to be her eyes and voice. I was there to tell her who was in the room, what was being done, what was going to happen, and how sorry we were that medical interventions would not save her. I shared with her that we would help her through the dying process as best we could, would help her family begin the mourning process, and would not leave her alone until her family or the Lord was there to embrace her. Shared from the Sacred Stories Archive Questions for Reflection This story speaks about the “sacred act of being present.” When have you experienced the sacred act of being present? How was that experience for you? How can the shift from “human doing” to “human being” help when there is nothing else we can do? Share this Story Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on LinkedInShare by Mail Listen to more Sacred Stories The Gift of CitizenshipJuly 1, 2020/by adminOur Famous PatientJuly 1, 2020/by adminFulfilling a Last RequestAugust 1, 2020/by adminThe Power of Being PresentAugust 1, 2020/by adminA Celebrated FarewellSeptember 1, 2020/by adminGod's Perfect TimingSeptember 1, 2020/by adminGod's Presence in GriefSeptember 28, 2020/by adminCompassion in ActionSeptember 28, 2020/by adminEncourage One AnotherOctober 26, 2020/by adminThe Door is OpenOctober 26, 2020/by adminRestoring the SoulNovember 16, 2020/by adminSacred Stories, Sacred GroundNovember 16, 2020/by adminOur Christmas GiftNovember 30, 2020/by adminMessages Placed in My PathJanuary 8, 2021/by adminBeyond WordsFebruary 1, 2021/by adminCare In the Time of COVID-19March 1, 2021/by adminPrayer of Surrender at the End of LifeMarch 8, 2021/by adminWisdom from a ChildApril 5,

Full Text of ReadingsSaturday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 346All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Saint Maria Bertilla BoscardinIf anyone knew rejection, ridicule and disappointment, it was today's saint. But such trials only brought Maria Bertilla Boscardin closer to God and more determined to serve him. Born in Italy in 1888, the young girl lived in fear of her father, a violent man prone to jealousy and drunkenness. Her schooling was limited so that she could spend more time helping at home and working in the fields. She showed few talents and was often the butt of jokes. In 1904, she joined the Sisters of Saint Dorothy and was assigned to work in the kitchen, bakery and laundry. After some time Maria received nurses' training and began working in a hospital with children suffering from diphtheria. There the young nun seemed to find her true vocation: nursing very ill and disturbed children. Later, when the hospital was taken over by the military in World War I, Sister Maria Bertilla fearlessly cared for patients amidst the threat of constant air raids and bombings. She died in 1922 after suffering for many years from a painful tumor. Some of the patients she had nursed many years before were present at her canonization in 1961. Reflection This fairly recent saint knew the hardships of living in an abusive situation. Let us pray to her to help all those who are suffering from any form of spiritual, mental, or physical abuse. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Well, we've made it through 2021. I don't know about you, but this year seemed to fly by compared to 2020. Time is funny, isn't it. It's actually moving along at the same pace all the time, and yet our perception of it shifts.   We haven't figured out how to stop time…yet, but I'd like to offer a practice that can help you capture more meaning out of the time you have. This is a great end of the year process and it's very simple.   A few years ago I was listening to an interview with public radio personality, Ira Glass. He was talking about the process of good storytelling. And it all came down to two words: ACTION and REFLECTION This makes sense, right? We do something and then we reflect on it. We act and then we ponder the action's meaning. But here's the thing…we aren't a very reflective society and most of the time reflection falls by the wayside. Learn more about Gem  on the Unhurried Living website and follow her on Instagram. 

Full Text of ReadingsSolemnity of All Saints Lectionary: 667All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Solemnity of All Saintsof the Solemnity of All Saints The earliest certain observance of a feast in honor of all the saints is an early fourth-century commemoration of “all the martyrs.” In the early seventh century, after successive waves of invaders plundered the catacombs, Pope Boniface IV gathered up some 28 wagon-loads of bones and reinterred them beneath the Pantheon, a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods. The pope rededicated the shrine as a Christian church. According to Venerable Bede, the pope intended “that the memory of all the saints might in the future be honored in the place which had formerly been dedicated to the worship not of gods but of demons” (On the Calculation of Time). But the rededication of the Pantheon, like the earlier commemoration of all the martyrs, occurred in May. Many Eastern Churches still honor all the saints in the spring, either during the Easter season or immediately after Pentecost. How the Western Church came to celebrate this feast, now recognized as a solemnity, in November is a puzzle to historians. The Anglo-Saxon theologian Alcuin observed the feast on November 1 in 800, as did his friend Arno, Bishop of Salzburg. Rome finally adopted that date in the ninth century. Reflection This feast first honored martyrs. Later, when Christians were free to worship according to their consciences, the Church acknowledged other paths to sanctity. In the early centuries the only criterion was popular acclaim, even when the bishop's approval became the final step in placing a commemoration on the calendar. The first papal canonization occurred in 993; the lengthy process now required to prove extraordinary sanctity took form in the last 500 years. Today's feast honors the obscure as well as the famous—the saints each of us have known. Click here for more on the Feast of All Saints! Saint of the Day Copyright Franciscan Media

The Ego has gotten a bad wrap up to now and this week, The Dominion want to dissolve the separation narrative and bring in light, harmony and a 5D perspective. Aligning with the energy of change this month, it's time to re-write your beliefs and begin practicing ego balance.Working with the ego AND the soul as a loving marriage, which means being in allowance of the messages from ego self, and aligning them completely with the messages of the loving soul for growth and ascension.This teaching came from Sam experiencing an ego moment witnessing a Paddle boarder navigating high winds and choppy seas.Spirit always finds a way to deliver a message and it's always in divine timing.Enjoy this episode.SamPrompts for Reflection:This behaviour and this feeling I'm having, and this response that's coming out of me now, is it coming from my Ego Self or from my Soul Self?Please show me all the perspectives currently available to me.Resource Links:Book Your Akashic Records Reading with Sam and take 10% off at the checkout with the code LOVEConnect with Sam on Instagram Listen to the September 2021 Lesson From The Records episode 

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lectionary: 401All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Saints Joachim and AnneIn the Scriptures, Matthew and Luke furnish a legal family history of Jesus, tracing ancestry to show that Jesus is the culmination of great promises. Not only is his mother's family neglected, we also know nothing factual about them except that they existed. Even the names “Joachim” and “Anne” come from a legendary source written more than a century after Jesus died. The heroism and holiness of these people however, is inferred from the whole family atmosphere around Mary in the Scriptures. Whether we rely on the legends about Mary's childhood or make guesses from the information in the Bible, we see in her a fulfillment of many generations of prayerful persons, herself steeped in the religious traditions of her people. The strong character of Mary in making decisions, her continuous practice of prayer, her devotion to the laws of her faith, her steadiness at moments of crisis, and her devotion to her relatives—all indicate a close-knit, loving family that looked forward to the next generation even while retaining the best of the past. Joachim and Anne—whether these are their real names or not—represent that entire quiet series of generations who faithfully perform their duties, practice their faith, and establish an atmosphere for the coming of the Messiah, but remain obscure. Reflection This is the “feast of grandparents.” It reminds grandparents of their responsibility to establish a tone for generations to come: They must make the traditions live and offer them as a promise to little children. But the feast has a message for the younger generation as well. It reminds the young that older people's greater perspective, depth of experience, and appreciation of life's profound rhythms are all part of a wisdom not to be taken lightly or ignored. Saints Joachim and Anne are the Patron Saints of: Grandparents Saint Anne is the Patron Saint of: Mothers Women in Labor Saint of the Day Copyright Franciscan Media

On this episode of Deep Water Culture, Seth reads his newly written poem entitled Reflection This poem gives listeners a chance to submerge with him as he recalls antagonistic behavior that inspired him to become stronger rather than fall prey.Music by Water Features http://soundcloud.com/nightvisionforeverInstacart https://instacart.oloiyb.net/9WWj7e

Reflection -This is brave work! What is OUR part in trust? Leaving the blame game. Getting honest with yourself. What is your go to to gain "control"? Alissa and I, we clean our closets! Alissa takes on the "lawn lady" to set boundaries. BRAVING...Boundaries Reliability Accountability Vault Integrity Choosing courage over comfort, choosing what's right over what's fun, fast or easy. Practicing your values not just professing them. Non-JudgementGenerosity Dare to Lead Downloads

We held virtual worship on Sunday, May 2, 2021 at 10:00AM! You may watch a recording on Facebook Live by clicking here, or you may watch below. Quote for Reflection: This might be the most difficult task for us in postmodernRead more

Projection vs. Reflection --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cecil-hollaway6/support

Reflection - This is brave work! What is OUR part in trust?   Leaving the blame game.  Getting honest with yourself. What is your go to to gain "control"? Alissa and I, we clean our closets!  Alissa takes on the "lawn lady" to set boundaries.  BRAVING... Boundaries   Reliability  Accountability  Vault  Integrity Choosing courage over comfort, choosing what's right over what's fun, fast or easy.  Practicing your values not just professing them.  Non-Judgement Generosity  Dare to Lead Downloads