Watching and Waiting to Know What to Do

Friends of Faith:

The LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying: Ask for a sign from the LORD, your God; let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky! But Ahaz answered, “I will not ask! I will not tempt the LORD!” Is 7: 10-11

I’m always thinking about what I’m going to do next. And I pray to God often, what is it you want me to do, and help me to say yes.

But I wonder how often I am like Ahaz, that when God says, “Ask for a sign, I’ll tell you what to do.” My answer is: “I won’t ask, I’m too proud, I can do it myself, or I’m too afraid of what the answer might be.”

I so desire to be an obedient and humble servant, like Joseph and Mary, listening to and 

IMMEDIATELY following the signs they received that brought Jesus into the world.

The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, (Is 14) which means “God is with us.”

When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. Mt 1: 18-24

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Lk 1: 38

For hundreds of years, even before Jesus was born, we have been asking for signs. I personally have received many signs and God has answered many prayers. And still, I ask for more. I fail to listen or I fail to act even when I have asked and been granted a sign. There are some who won’t ask. There are some who fail to believe in God or even in Jesus’ coming.

And yet we continue to wonder, watch and wait for an answer to “what should I do.” Have I asked? Have I listened?

Maybe God is answering and I am just not looking in the right place.

In which manger do I look to seek Jesus? Will I listen to and answer God’s call? Will I say, “YES” like Joseph and Mary to make Jesus the reason and focus, not just for Christmas, but for life?

Be active. Don’t just watch and wait – ask and listen. God will give us a sign! This is what Advent is all about. This is what God promises!

Blessings,

Charlotte

Finding Balance

Friends of Faith:

Each time I write I struggle to find balance in what I write – to share and to teach, but not to preach; to inspire with hope, but 

not give into the despair of my own shortcomings; and to seek and share truth but not judge our human tendencies to give in to our selfish desires.

That’s the way earthly life is if we believe in God’s grace. It is a journey to constantly seek the truth, while acknowledging that we all have faults, a journey in which God promises us His undeserved love, mercy and forgiveness, if we will only accept it. And a journey through a world filled with temptations demanding everyday choices between earthly happiness and heavenly righteousness, a journey which if we have faith and trust in God tells us that He offers us every gift: love, happiness, our daily needs, peace and joy.

I find this balancing act to be even more of a challenge each Advent season.

A challenge to give to all of those that are needy, while receiving what others offer to me in charity.

A challenge to find quiet time in prayer, in church and in search of God in my own life, while doing all of the things I want to do to help others to feel God’s love in theirs.

A challenge to accept God’s forgiveness for my own shortcomings, while being patient in offering mercy to those who do not yet have an understanding of what God is granting them through truth and grace.

A challenge to both remember and share that JESUS is the Reason for the Season and that I should be grateful that his gifts are free.

“Brothers and sisters: I pray always with joy in my every prayer for all of you, because of your partnership for the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.
God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. 
And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception,  to discern what is of value,  so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness  that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.” Phil 1: 4-6, 8-11 AMEN!!

Take time for God. Pray, hope and find Balance. Know that all He wants from us is our faithfulness in Him. Seek and share the truth, be thankful, and accept His love and the love of others.

May the peace and joy of the season, of Christ Jesus, be with you all.

Blessings,

Charlotte

 

Rejoice, Rejoice

Friends of Faith:

Rejoice, Rejoice!

If I think about Christmas the way the world has come to know it my first instinct is an anxiety attack. I have shopping to do, gifts to wrap, cards to write, cookies to bake, a tree to set up, a house to clean and the list goes on.

But if I think about Christmas with a sense of rejoicing in the reason for the season I turn to giving thanks for all of the gifts I have received, the greatest of which is Jesus himself.

“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit.” 1 Thes 5: 16

When I realize the true reason for Christmas and begin to rejoice in the reason for the season it is because I am giving thanks for the gifts of our health, a warm house, family and friends, a full cupboard, the opportunity of being able to go to church and the list goes on.

And instead of an anxiety attack I look forward in anticipation to a house full of kids and grandkids, singing Christmas carols, driving around to see the sparkling lights and the opportunity to see relatives and hear from friends that I don’t see or talk to often enough.

“My soul rejoices in my God. My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked upon his lowly servant. …..My soul rejoices in my God. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.” Lk 1: 46-53

I think it is the very reason that I am hearing expressed more and more –“I wish we celebrated Christmas in the same way we celebrate Thanksgiving”….only the gift of ourselves, plenty of time to enjoy each others’company and most importantly truly rejoicing in thanksgiving for all what we have that is spiritually and emotionally lasting rather than material and fleeting.

The “ah ha” moment! To give thanks, rejoice, anticipate through the lens of Christ instead of through the lens of the world: in the wisdom of thanksgiving instead of the desires brought on by competition, comparison, and materialism.

How can I make Christmas be more like Thanksgiving? Yes, I still have to cook, but now it is a time of new and shared memories and a time to get in the way of all the other cooks.

How can I rejoice more, appreciate more and do less? What will I really give up if I just sit back and enjoy friends and family instead of trying to impress them with “perfect” gifts? When will we realize that we already have the perfect gift, each other—exactly what is realized when we express our desire to make Christmas more like Thanksgiving?

Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel. Until the Son of God appear. Rejoice, rejoice, Thou wisdom from on high. Who order’est all things mightly, to us the path of knowledge show, and teach us in the ways to go. O come, desire of nations, bind in one the hearts of all humankind; bid thou one sad divisions cease, and be thyself our Prince of Peace. Amen. (O Come, O Come Emmanuel)

In anticipation, in thanksgiving, in rejoicing for the season – May each of you find hope and seek peace, share joy and profess love as we await the coming of Christ.

Blessings,

Charlotte

www.morningreflection.blogspot.com

Missing the Reason for the .....

Friends of Faith:

Hindsight is often 20/20. Looking back we can often see why or what we would have done differently.

Yesterday Father Mike pointed out that in many, maybe most of the events where Jesus was present, only Mary, Joseph and an occasional apostle or follower were present: The Annunciation—only Mary gave an unconditional yes; the Nativity, only Mary and Joseph were present—the inn keeper put them in the lowly place of the animals, the stable; Jesus’ Preaching in the Temple at age 12—Mary and Joseph lost Jesus, and the Jewish doctors of the church (Rabbis) didn’t really understand what Jesus was preaching or asking questions about—they just thought he was a “smart” kid; the Crucifixion—many were present, yet only Mary and the disciple, John, had any realization of the importance of the event; and immediately after His Resurrection – those who met Jesus on the path to Emmaus missed who he was and again the importance of his rising. Each of the disciples at some point MISSED the message of Jesus in their lives.

Not until the Spirit was breathed into the apostles on Pentecost and they looked back at many of these events did they begin to understand what they had missed, what they should have done differently, and why: the reason for the season.

“The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God. As it is written in Isaiah the prophet:Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way. A voice of one crying out in the desert: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” Mk 1: 1-8

God gave the gospel and biblical writers open ears, open hearts and the ability to see the reasons—to write them down for the Church to pass on so that we might be able to do things differently and that we would not miss their importance.

Yet, just like those present in Christ’s time I have missed the reason for many of the suggestions, many of the instructions I have received over the years. I have failed to pay attention to my parents, mentors, events, even sometimes, the wisdom of my children. I have often been “present”but missed the reason or the opportunity of my presence in a particular moment at a particular time. I have come away saying, “I wished I would have,” or “I’m sorry I didn’t” listen or do differently whatever it was I did in that particular time.

“The blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they said to him. Then he touched their eyes and said, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened.” Mt 9: 27-31

Sometimes it is a matter of not taking the time to pray and discern God’s will. Sometimes it is a matter of thinking I know best. Sometimes it is a matter of not asking the right question at the right time. And sometimes it is a matter of my being so busy that I am only paying attention to my own purpose rather than looking around at what else is happening, or the intention (and heart) of the other people present who are offering their help, their knowledge or their better understanding of the situation.

Often someone looking at my situation from the “outside” has a better perspective of my overall dilemma. So when I miss the reason for the….. season, it is because my heart, my ears, my eyes were closed to the dilemma itself.

“Do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like one day. The Lord does not delay his promise, as some regard “delay,” but he is patient with you, not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar and the elements will be dissolved by fire, and the earth and everything done on it will be found out. Since everything is to be dissolved in this way, what sort of persons ought you to be, conducting yourselves in holiness and devotion, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God” 2 Pt 3: 8-14

Heavenly Father, You are all knowing. Help me to listen. You are all powerful. Help me to obey. You are the reason. Come Holy Spirit, open my eyes, my ears and my heart to do Your will and to be one with your purpose. Help me allow Your presence to change my life. May Your reason become mine. Amen.

What am I being told? Who has God sent to tell me? Am I missing the reason? Will I say yes to this season?

Christ Jesus sent the Spirit to us, to guide us and to give us knowledge, courage, patience, wisdom and understanding—and God gave us Jesus Christ as the greatest present ever.

Don’t miss Christ’s presence. Make Him the reason for every season by celebrating and obeying His presence in your life.

Blessings,

Charlotte

www.morningreflection.blogspot.com

Christmas Tradition

Women of Faith:
Merry Christmas!

As we prepare today for another family gathering I was thinking about the traditions, past and present, that we will have celebrated or been reminded of this Christmas season:

The imaginative decorating by children (young and old) of Christmas cookies, making and eating bean soup and oyster stew, placing Baby Jesus in the manager, eating an apple from Grandma and Grandpa Svoboda, driving to see Christmas lights, searching the bottom of the stocking, attending Christmas mass together, driving home thru a winter wonderland of snow (which we missed this year, and then praised that we missed), attending loud family gatherings and singing (in prayer-Silent Night; with joyfulness-the twelve days of Christmas; and nostalgically-Czech carols), and taking a family picture.

These traditions were started 2011 years ago at the birth of Our Lord in Bethlehem: a family who said yes to God and then protected their spouse and child at a great sacrifice; who had a simple home with simple food and simple belongings; who received gifts brought by earthly kings; who’s good news was spread with great joy by the angels; and who by the light of a star (the Spirit) guides us and gave us the mass—as in Christ.mass.
And then I wondered how well I was doing at keeping the true focus of the traditions of Christmas?

Do my traditions reflect Mary unselfishly saying “yes” to God—even though it could have cost her life(the penalty for adultery was to be stoned to death); Joseph, who protected his wife, Mary, by trusting her—even though it cost him his own prideful reputation; or the innkeepers with “no room” keeping my belongings for my own needs)? Am I happy with the simplicity of swaddling clothes and a manager for a bed? Do I spread the good news like the angels with rejoicing and gladness? Do I follow the three kings’ example by giving everything and protecting the life of every child, as they did Jesus from Herod?

And am I like today’s feast day saint, St. Stephen, the first martyr, who when he was laughed at for speaking of Jesus, and who kept his focus turned upwards: “But he, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked up intently to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." Acts 6: 8-10

Dear God: Thank you for giving us Jesus, Your son, our Savior and Redeemer, to light the way, to guide us and to open the heavens for us. May we each be more like Mary, unselfish; more like Joseph, protective of life; more like the angels, spreading the good news; and more like the kings, giving up our possessions to those in need. Thank you for the traditions inspired by the Nativity scene. Amen.

May your family’s traditions of Christmas give you peace and joy, and fill your hearts and homes with the love of Christ,

Blessings,
Charlotte

Make God Real

Women of Faith:

Jesus is the Reason for the Season!

But is God/Jesus REAL to me?

Am I seeing His signs, listening and answering God’s call in my life like Mary (and Joseph) who believed in God’s message and said yes to His call? “Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?" And the angel said to her in reply, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you…. Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Luke 1: 26-38

Or am I like Solomon who ignored God’s signs, turned to the devil’s temptations, and created a façade which would be torn down—because it was a building of man (a temple) rather than a building of God (His people)?

When I started to write this reflection this morning I realized that it was no longer just a handful of signs that God has given to Stan & I—but rather that the signs that we are blessed with are more and more frequent—not earth shattering or lightening striking signs—although we’ve had a few of those, but rather “just” everyday prayers being answered.

And I don’t think it is because God is giving the world/us more signs and miracles that we are being blessed by them. Rather I think it is because we are praying for miracles, praying for signs, praying that God would be REAL to us.

I have had numerous people write to say that this writing was just what they needed to hear today—yet I can’t possibly know what all of you are thinking, praying for or needing to hear. I only put on paper what has meaning for me and what God puts in my heart to share.

But just as this particular reflection may touch you, so have we had our own prayers answered within minutes of asking God—“what do we/I do next?”--a song or show on EWTN or Christian radio, a message in this week’s sermon or today’s scripture, a single bible verse heard on KLYF 101.9, or a text message from a friend.

I have had nights with meeting conflicts where one event got cancelled or another rescheduled so that I could do everything I felt called too do.

Stan & I have met someone on the street, in the grocery store, or at a ball game just when I, or they, or we, needed to talk about or support one another in prayer.

We have had couples that have come into our lives thru an EWTN TV show “Marriage Works in Christ” –and an answered call to join www.thealexanderhouse.org . This ministry has enriched our lives as much as it enriches the marriages that we have been blessed to share their date night and coaching programs with.

And of course there are those “chance” happenings: a near miss auto accident, a conversation with a stranger, or an unexpected phone call. And we have learned not to force meetings or words with those we know—waiting instead for God to give us the chance meeting and the right words. (And sometimes our patience isn’t the best )!

Oh and yes, I have had BIG prayers answered, miracle worthy answers to a prayerful plea and I believe I have quite literally seen at least one angel
(in the form of a police officer, no less).

Yet not every sign has been what I expected or thought I would be blessed by. But I am learning more and more to TRUST in the signs; to answer the call; to heed his warnings. Sometimes it takes hearing the message 4 or 5 times; missing the answer to a prayer 4 or 5 times; or being patient to receive an answer. But eventually I have realized that it was God talking, God providing a solution, God setting up roadblocks, or clearing the path—I just have to follow His lead.

Heavenly Father, praise be your very REAL presence in our lives. Thank you for the birth of Your son and the giving of His life to save mine. May I continue to be blessed to hear, see and follow Your signs. And may all those who read this message be blessed to see that you are REAL. Amen.

May you be blessed with the REAL Spirit of Christmas,
Merry Christmas from the Upah family,
Charlotte

Do you see what I see?

Women of Faith:
Remember the song: “Do you hear what I hear? Said the night wind to the little lamb. Do you see what I see? Way up in the sky, little lamb?”

As I get ready for Christmas, what do I see?

Do I see myself setting out boxes of decorations, or recognizing the beauty of a single shining star?

Do I see myself bustling around shopping for the perfect gift, or recognizing the joy in a small child’s delight of a glittery bow?

Do I see myself hurrying to get a list of food prepared, or recognizing the love and blessings of having time to be with my family?

How often do I miss seeing beauty, joy and love because my eyes are focused on the wants, the fulfillment, or the pleasure of what is just an earthly treasure?

In this week’s gospel- Mk 1: 1-8 John the Baptist proclaimed that he was not the Messiah, but only the one sent before him. In next week’s gospel we will hear again that we are not recognizing Jesus: "I baptize with water; but there is one among you whom you do not recognize, the one who is coming after me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie." Jn 1: 19-28

Just like the people who flocked to see and be baptized by John the Baptist, but missed Christ, my eyes often fail to recognize the truly important parts of Christmas: a beautifully lit nativity scene, the sparkling eyes of a child reflecting the lights of a Christmas tree, and the sounds of conversation as our family gathers. Beauty, Joy, Love, Hope, and Peace.

Do I recognize and thank God for what he has given me: the wealth of health; the awe and wonder in the miracles of nature; the joys of giving without receiving; and most especially the real meaning of Christmas—his son, Jesus, our savior?

Do I graciously give love and praise with kindness, patience and humility? Or do I expect perfection in others and have a desire to get something in return? Do I recognize my blessings and share my treasures by serving those who don’t, can’t, or won’t give anything back to me?

Heavenly Father: Open my heart and my eyes to see Your goodness and recognize the glory of the gifts given to me by those I meet on this journey. Thank you for the gifts of family and friends who share the joy and peace of Christmas love. May Your Spirit be recognized by those who are lonely or who don’t recognize Your presence in their lives. Amen.

May we see and recognize the true presence of God in our life,
Blessings,
Charlotte