Women of Faith:
When I was growing up I remember dreading this week of the year—it meant more church, more sacrifice, less food and somber meditation.
I don’t quite remember when my attitude towards Holy Week changed. Maybe it took some of my own suffering or maybe I had to experience the power of unconditional love from someone outside of my own family.
But sometime in my late teens and early adult years my attitude changed. I began to look forward to this week of “dying to self,” of appreciating the gift we have been given to experience Christ’s walk in and thru the passion celebration, of experiencing the Power of Love.
He summoned the crowd with his disciples and said to them, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me, for whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the gospel* will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? What could one give in exchange for his life? Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels. Mk 8:34-37
On Thursday I will participate in the Last Supper—I will be present as we celebrate the very first Eucharistic Mass—when Christ gave us himself as the eternal food so that we would be sustained by Him, in Him and thru Him; fed by His flesh and blood each time we participate at his table in the (universal) Mass which he established to replace the Passover meal and celebration.
Am I willing to lose my life for Him? Will I stoop to the depths of Christ and wash the feet of those who serve me?
“He said to them, "Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me 'teacher' and 'master,' and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another's feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do." Jn 13: 14-15
On Friday, Jesus’ death on the cross is the culmination of an attitude of one who does not cry out and who does not flinch against evil. He bears patiently the beatings and the violence of the same world we live in today.
Evil is what happens when people are consumed by fear and hatred. Evil is never content until it has destroyed the pleading and accusing eyes of an innocent victim.
Will I be “Simon” who helped Jesus carry his cross for 650 yards or will I be the bystander yelling insults and mocking Jesus? Who am I crucifying this week by my lack of forgiveness, by my words or by my silent treatment to them?
Or am I strong like Jesus? Do I turn the other cheek and endure the insults and false accusations of others with love and forgiveness?
"The Lord God is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame." Is 50:4-7
Will I experience a mother’s desire to take away all the pains and sufferings of those I love? Mary’s sorrows as Jesus suffered pain, torture and ultimate death on the cross shows us how to bear our burdens and sufferings.
And here I watch the ultimate power in ultimate love. Because love is not a feeling—love is the action of serving, of giving up everything to serve another without any desire to be repaid, or to receive reward.
Will I become a participant? Or will I only remain as a bystander?
This is what Holy Week is all about: A call to action. A call to conquer evil with love, a call to bear patiently when we are wronged, a call to forgive 70 x 7, a call to serve kindly, a call to courage and perseverance when things don’t go our way and a call to have hope in the power of love.
It is about a Son’s love for his Father; a Mother’s love for her child; and the bridegroom’s love for his bride.
It is not about feeling loved, but how we act out our love.
It is not about saying I’m sorry, but how we forgive those that have wronged us.
It is not about saying we are saved; it is about accepting the responsibility that comes with that relationship with Christ, by how we act (Mt 25: 31-40) because we have accepted the love so freely given to us by Jesus’ death on the cross.
Lord Jesus, the evil which we have allowed into your world must bring you deep sorrow. Help me to follow Your path to power by acting in love. May the sorrows of Your passion and death serve to remind me of the hope and joys that followed in your resurrection. Help each of us to serve with courage and to spread your joy to others. Amen.
May my sadness as I walk with Christ this week become my motivation and the pain of desire to do what I can to serve others in and through love.
And may your hope and desire for heaven be strengthened by the Power of His Love this week,
Charlotte
Monday, April 2, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
Moving Target
Women of Faith:
Just as the sun moved it’s time of day yesterday morning, I felt like my target for “life” moved right along with the time of day.
While last week I felt energized, refreshed and as if I had met my goals, this week I feel as if my target somehow moved just out of sight, out of my reach and as if I don’t quite know how to get there.
Some of it had to do with work goals—March 1st is almost as big as April 15th; some of it had to do with being off of work last weekend; but most of it really had to do with wanting to feel the Holy Spirit as I did last weekend and the Spirit feels just beyond my reach.
I thought I did everything “right” last week—I said daily prayers for all those I know, and don’t know, with illnesses and problems much bigger than my own. I went to mass on Friday and was blessed to be able to say the Stations of the Cross with a family who knows the meaning of being a family. Stan took me on a date and I got to feel the warmth of friends who were excited to see us. And I was blessed with the technology of Skype to see Sara and wish Karolina a happy 2nd birthday.
“Now consider the movie of life ….
“GOD creates the world. (Were you alive then? Was GOD talking to you when he proclaimed, “It is good”)..
“The people rebel against GOD (who if you haven’t realized it yet, is the main character in this movie), and GOD floods the earth to rid it of the mess people made of it.” Crazy Love by Francis Chan
Oops—I realize my first mistake—Life isn’t about me, it’s about God.
The “target” is getting easier to see.
“Several generations later, GOD singles out a ninety-year old man called Abraham and makes him the father of a nation (did you have anything to do with this?).
“Later along come Joseph and Moses and many other ordinary and inadequate people that the movie is also NOT about. GOD is the one who picks them and directs them and works miracles among them.
“In the next scene, GOD sends judges and prophets to HIS nation because the people can’t seem to give Him the one thing He asks of them (obedience).” Continuation Crazy Love
2nd mistake—I looked at “what” I did—not how I have sinned and what I need to do better.
“And then, the climax: The SON of GOD is born among the people whom GOD still somehow loves. While in this world, the SON teaches His followers what true love looks like. Then the Son of GOD dies and is resurrected and goes back up to be with GOD.
“And even though the movie isn’t quite finished yet, we know what the last scene holds. It’s the scene I already described …the throne room of GOD. Here EVERY being worships GOD who sits on the throne, for He alone is worthy to be praised.” Continuation Crazy Love
Oh—I can see my target once again—GOD in heaven ….. I guess my target really didn’t move. I just lost sight of it for a little while. I guess there were too many clouds: clouds of selfishness, distraction, and busyness.
“From start to finish, this movie is obviously about God. He is the main character. How is it possible we live as though it is about us? Our scenes in the movie, our brief lives, fall somewhere between the time Jesus ascends into heaven (Acts) and when we will all worship God on his throne in heaven (Revelation).
“We have only our two-fifths of a second long scene to live. I don’t know about you, but I want my two-fifths of a second to be about MY making MUCH of GOD. 1Cor 10:31 says, “So whatever you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” That is what each of our two-fifths of a second is about.” Continuation Crazy Love
So whether “life” (my circumstances in it) is “good or bad” by my standards this week; whether I walk in the shadow or can see brilliant sunlight (SONlight)—it isn’t all about me, it’s all about GOD. And the target really hasn’t moved, it is just challenging me to DO more, BE more and LOVE more… to be MORE like Jesus who was sent by God to be His example of how to live as humans.
Heavenly Father: I sing the glory of your praises for the creation you have given us. Thank you for Stan, our children, our friends, your grace in our faith and the abundance of our lives. Help us always to be humbled to remember that many of your children have much less physically, but that spiritually we are all created equally in YOUR love. Please keep your target for all of us firmly in our sight. Amen.
If you think your target moved—it didn’t. GOD is always with us: loving us and forgiving us by granting us His mercy and raining grace upon us.
It is only a new week, a new circumstance, a new day – our two-fifths of a second in which we are asked to show GOD that we are all about serving Him, loving Him, and forgiving others as He does for us.
Keep your eyes and heart fixed on the last scene, the heavenly target: peace and unity with God,
Blessings,
Charlotte
Just as the sun moved it’s time of day yesterday morning, I felt like my target for “life” moved right along with the time of day.
While last week I felt energized, refreshed and as if I had met my goals, this week I feel as if my target somehow moved just out of sight, out of my reach and as if I don’t quite know how to get there.
Some of it had to do with work goals—March 1st is almost as big as April 15th; some of it had to do with being off of work last weekend; but most of it really had to do with wanting to feel the Holy Spirit as I did last weekend and the Spirit feels just beyond my reach.
I thought I did everything “right” last week—I said daily prayers for all those I know, and don’t know, with illnesses and problems much bigger than my own. I went to mass on Friday and was blessed to be able to say the Stations of the Cross with a family who knows the meaning of being a family. Stan took me on a date and I got to feel the warmth of friends who were excited to see us. And I was blessed with the technology of Skype to see Sara and wish Karolina a happy 2nd birthday.
“Now consider the movie of life ….
“GOD creates the world. (Were you alive then? Was GOD talking to you when he proclaimed, “It is good”)..
“The people rebel against GOD (who if you haven’t realized it yet, is the main character in this movie), and GOD floods the earth to rid it of the mess people made of it.” Crazy Love by Francis Chan
Oops—I realize my first mistake—Life isn’t about me, it’s about God.
The “target” is getting easier to see.
“Several generations later, GOD singles out a ninety-year old man called Abraham and makes him the father of a nation (did you have anything to do with this?).
“Later along come Joseph and Moses and many other ordinary and inadequate people that the movie is also NOT about. GOD is the one who picks them and directs them and works miracles among them.
“In the next scene, GOD sends judges and prophets to HIS nation because the people can’t seem to give Him the one thing He asks of them (obedience).” Continuation Crazy Love
2nd mistake—I looked at “what” I did—not how I have sinned and what I need to do better.
“And then, the climax: The SON of GOD is born among the people whom GOD still somehow loves. While in this world, the SON teaches His followers what true love looks like. Then the Son of GOD dies and is resurrected and goes back up to be with GOD.
“And even though the movie isn’t quite finished yet, we know what the last scene holds. It’s the scene I already described …the throne room of GOD. Here EVERY being worships GOD who sits on the throne, for He alone is worthy to be praised.” Continuation Crazy Love
Oh—I can see my target once again—GOD in heaven ….. I guess my target really didn’t move. I just lost sight of it for a little while. I guess there were too many clouds: clouds of selfishness, distraction, and busyness.
“From start to finish, this movie is obviously about God. He is the main character. How is it possible we live as though it is about us? Our scenes in the movie, our brief lives, fall somewhere between the time Jesus ascends into heaven (Acts) and when we will all worship God on his throne in heaven (Revelation).
“We have only our two-fifths of a second long scene to live. I don’t know about you, but I want my two-fifths of a second to be about MY making MUCH of GOD. 1Cor 10:31 says, “So whatever you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” That is what each of our two-fifths of a second is about.” Continuation Crazy Love
So whether “life” (my circumstances in it) is “good or bad” by my standards this week; whether I walk in the shadow or can see brilliant sunlight (SONlight)—it isn’t all about me, it’s all about GOD. And the target really hasn’t moved, it is just challenging me to DO more, BE more and LOVE more… to be MORE like Jesus who was sent by God to be His example of how to live as humans.
Heavenly Father: I sing the glory of your praises for the creation you have given us. Thank you for Stan, our children, our friends, your grace in our faith and the abundance of our lives. Help us always to be humbled to remember that many of your children have much less physically, but that spiritually we are all created equally in YOUR love. Please keep your target for all of us firmly in our sight. Amen.
If you think your target moved—it didn’t. GOD is always with us: loving us and forgiving us by granting us His mercy and raining grace upon us.
It is only a new week, a new circumstance, a new day – our two-fifths of a second in which we are asked to show GOD that we are all about serving Him, loving Him, and forgiving others as He does for us.
Keep your eyes and heart fixed on the last scene, the heavenly target: peace and unity with God,
Blessings,
Charlotte
Monday, March 19, 2012
Your age
Women of Faith:
Aren’t there times when you would like to change your age?
When you are 5, you want to be 15; when you’re 15, you want to be 25; when you’re 20, you want to be 30; when you are/were 35 you want/ed to be 55 (retirement) and when you’re 50 plus we wish we could be young (30ish) again.
We’ve all heard the saying, “Act Your age!”
And what’s the perfect age? Many would say—“just not the age I am.”
Infants and young children—dependent upon their parents, trust and mimic those around them. They love unconditionally and say I’m sorry easily. This is where we learn to trust, who and how to love and the value of our being. They see “me” as a “we” because “I” still depend on someone for my basic needs to survive.
Teenagers—question everything, seek the truth, and search for proof of that truth. They love change and new ideas to test their boundaries. Life never seems fair, but deep down they still want someone to show them they care—by setting boundaries so that they can avoid making their own mistakes. They are learning to blame someone else for their decisions, although they would never admit that to anyone. And they test those boundaries to see if they are real—to see if they are “true love.” While our blinders see them saying “me, me, me” they are really looking at “you, you, you” to see how “we” should be.
Young adults—I am of age. I can make my own decisions and I want to know how those decisions will benefit me. It becomes more important “to be loved” than “to love.” It becomes more about “I” than “you” or “we.”
Maturing adults— as we age, have more relationships and are given more opportunities—we also bear more hurt, more suffering, and more unforgiveness. We tend to become callused, unforgiving, prideful and/or angry and more cynical of what life has to offer. We can become less tolerant, more judgmental and have less patience for others wrongdoings.
It is more difficult to say “I’m sorry” and remember to walk in another person’s shoes. It is difficult to look at our lives from the perspective of another person. It is difficult to admit doing wrong and to take blame for our own choices and actions. We feel more like we deserve “something” in return for what we do or have done and we tend to want to blame others for our mistakes. It becomes more difficult to change our habits.
"Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children,* you will not enter the kingdom of heaven." Mt 18:3 Are we willing to become like little children, to trust, to obey, to accept, to love and to depend on God?
"I will place my law within them and write it upon their hearts; I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No longer will they have need to teach their friends and relatives how to know the LORD. All, from least to greatest, shall know me, says the LORD, for I will forgive their evildoing and remember their sin no more." Jer 31: 33-34
Like a teenager are we willing to seek the truth and to write it on our hearts? Are we willing to let God be our God and to teach our friends his way without being fearful of societies judgment? Or do we still struggle on a path of our own and suffer the pains of prideful choices without benefit of God’s guidance?
"Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me". Jn 12:20-33
"Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him." Heb 5:8-9
How often must we test the boundaries to see that the real boundary is God’s commandment to love one another, that true boundaries give us real freedom from sin?
Heavenly Father, blessed are your children for they glorify your name. Help me to become one of them. Help me to trust you as your child, to love as a child and to forgive like a child. Help me to depend on you for my daily needs and to be obedient to you. Amen.
May the heart of a child lead you on the “right” path,
Charlotte
Aren’t there times when you would like to change your age?
When you are 5, you want to be 15; when you’re 15, you want to be 25; when you’re 20, you want to be 30; when you are/were 35 you want/ed to be 55 (retirement) and when you’re 50 plus we wish we could be young (30ish) again.
We’ve all heard the saying, “Act Your age!”
And what’s the perfect age? Many would say—“just not the age I am.”
Infants and young children—dependent upon their parents, trust and mimic those around them. They love unconditionally and say I’m sorry easily. This is where we learn to trust, who and how to love and the value of our being. They see “me” as a “we” because “I” still depend on someone for my basic needs to survive.
Teenagers—question everything, seek the truth, and search for proof of that truth. They love change and new ideas to test their boundaries. Life never seems fair, but deep down they still want someone to show them they care—by setting boundaries so that they can avoid making their own mistakes. They are learning to blame someone else for their decisions, although they would never admit that to anyone. And they test those boundaries to see if they are real—to see if they are “true love.” While our blinders see them saying “me, me, me” they are really looking at “you, you, you” to see how “we” should be.
Young adults—I am of age. I can make my own decisions and I want to know how those decisions will benefit me. It becomes more important “to be loved” than “to love.” It becomes more about “I” than “you” or “we.”
Maturing adults— as we age, have more relationships and are given more opportunities—we also bear more hurt, more suffering, and more unforgiveness. We tend to become callused, unforgiving, prideful and/or angry and more cynical of what life has to offer. We can become less tolerant, more judgmental and have less patience for others wrongdoings.
It is more difficult to say “I’m sorry” and remember to walk in another person’s shoes. It is difficult to look at our lives from the perspective of another person. It is difficult to admit doing wrong and to take blame for our own choices and actions. We feel more like we deserve “something” in return for what we do or have done and we tend to want to blame others for our mistakes. It becomes more difficult to change our habits.
"Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children,* you will not enter the kingdom of heaven." Mt 18:3 Are we willing to become like little children, to trust, to obey, to accept, to love and to depend on God?
"I will place my law within them and write it upon their hearts; I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No longer will they have need to teach their friends and relatives how to know the LORD. All, from least to greatest, shall know me, says the LORD, for I will forgive their evildoing and remember their sin no more." Jer 31: 33-34
Like a teenager are we willing to seek the truth and to write it on our hearts? Are we willing to let God be our God and to teach our friends his way without being fearful of societies judgment? Or do we still struggle on a path of our own and suffer the pains of prideful choices without benefit of God’s guidance?
"Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me". Jn 12:20-33
"Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him." Heb 5:8-9
How often must we test the boundaries to see that the real boundary is God’s commandment to love one another, that true boundaries give us real freedom from sin?
Heavenly Father, blessed are your children for they glorify your name. Help me to become one of them. Help me to trust you as your child, to love as a child and to forgive like a child. Help me to depend on you for my daily needs and to be obedient to you. Amen.
May the heart of a child lead you on the “right” path,
Charlotte
Monday, March 12, 2012
How can you say no?
Women of Faith:
We all say we want the same thing—to end up in heaven—eternity--favor with God—final perseverance.
So then why is it that we have such a difficult time saying no to everyone else, to all the things we get asked to do each day, but yet when it comes to God’s two commandments we say no so many times?
God gives us just two main commandments that encompass all of the others: "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." Mk 12: 28-31
I used to think of final perseverance as “at death,” but I realize that I need the grace of final perseverance every time I make a choice on how to answer God’s call in my life—to apply these two commandments to all of the others: to have no other gods (entertainment, camping, sports); to not speak God’s name in vain (to speak untruths); to keep holy the Sabbath (choosing church before another god); or to not lie or kill with my words or actions (hurt someone with gossip, or put someone down). Do I have the grace to not say “no” to God and to keep living as His Spirit guides me?
The Crucifixion: the fifth sorrowful mystery of the rosary: the meditation refers to “final perseverance.” Father Mike referred to that “grace” yesterday in talking about who remained at the foot of the cross with Christ at the end—John, the youngest apostle—who was the only apostle who didn’t run away in fear of being persecuted; Mary Magdalene, the sinner who asked for forgiveness and was granted God’s mercy; and Mary, his mother, who never said “no” to God.
Mary’s grace: to say “yes” even when the choice means I will be looked down at by much of society—when I chose God on Sunday, instead of sleeping in or other entertainment; when I choose to promote “pro-life,” instead of “equality” and the right to choose; when I defend God’s plan for marriage one man, one woman and as a lifetime commitment—not equality and it’s too much work or he/she just isn’t treating me right.
Mary Magdalene’s grace: to ask and to give forgiveness unconditionally, 7x70, no matter how badly I have been hurt—Christ died for us, to forgive us, there was no blame of anyone for why He had to die on the cross. He could have “saved” himself, He could have walked away, He could have chosen to say no—but he didn’t!! He took the blame for all of our sins. Do we take the blame for our own? Do we accept the responsibility for when we haven’t loved God or our neighbor, our spouse or a family member enough?
John’s grace: to totally trust in God, like a child trust’s their parent to protect them, without fear of persecution, retaliation or condemnation. Do we trust God enough to tell a coach “no” and make a decision to prioritize God and church rather than the game on Sunday? Are we will be willing to accept whatever “punishment” is given to our child as a small sacrifice for God? Do we trust that we will be protected by God when we love unconditionally in our marriages? Are we ready to accept the sacrifice of serving our spouse even when they don’t seem to appreciate all we do for them?
Do you have Mary, Mary Magdalene’s and John’s grace to be at the foot of the cross? Do you say “no” to God by your choice to make something other than God your choice? Are you persevering in God’s commandments—to not put something else before God, to keep Holy the Sabbath, to not gossip, to not envy (keep up with the Jones’), and to not get angry when things don’t go your way?
Come, Holy Spirit, enkindle in me the fire of Your love. May Your grace help me persevere so that I will never say “no” to Our Heavenly Father. Thank you for all of those people in my life who serve as an example to me, because they lovingly accept their sufferings; because they completely trust Your will; and especially for those that love me unconditionally—even when I “mess up” or hurt them with my own choices. Amen.
Thorns in His head, Spear in His side, Yet it was a heartache, That made Him cry. He gave His life, So you would understand. Is there any way you could say no to this man?
If Christ Himself, Were standing here, With His face full of glory, And His eyes full of tears. And if He held out His arms, And His nail-printed hands, Is there any way you could say no to this man?
How could you look into His tear-stained eyes, Knowing that it's you He's thinking of? Could you tell Him you're not ready now, To give Him your life? Could you say that you don't think you need His love?
Jesus is here, With His arms open wide. You can see Him with your heart, If you'll stop looking with your eyes. He's left it up to you, He's done all that He can. Is there any way you could say no to this man? Words from “How can you say No” sung by Steve Angrinaso
My prayer this week is that none of you will say “no” to God—he is calling YOU!!
Blessings,
Charlotte
We all say we want the same thing—to end up in heaven—eternity--favor with God—final perseverance.
So then why is it that we have such a difficult time saying no to everyone else, to all the things we get asked to do each day, but yet when it comes to God’s two commandments we say no so many times?
God gives us just two main commandments that encompass all of the others: "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." Mk 12: 28-31
I used to think of final perseverance as “at death,” but I realize that I need the grace of final perseverance every time I make a choice on how to answer God’s call in my life—to apply these two commandments to all of the others: to have no other gods (entertainment, camping, sports); to not speak God’s name in vain (to speak untruths); to keep holy the Sabbath (choosing church before another god); or to not lie or kill with my words or actions (hurt someone with gossip, or put someone down). Do I have the grace to not say “no” to God and to keep living as His Spirit guides me?
The Crucifixion: the fifth sorrowful mystery of the rosary: the meditation refers to “final perseverance.” Father Mike referred to that “grace” yesterday in talking about who remained at the foot of the cross with Christ at the end—John, the youngest apostle—who was the only apostle who didn’t run away in fear of being persecuted; Mary Magdalene, the sinner who asked for forgiveness and was granted God’s mercy; and Mary, his mother, who never said “no” to God.
Mary’s grace: to say “yes” even when the choice means I will be looked down at by much of society—when I chose God on Sunday, instead of sleeping in or other entertainment; when I choose to promote “pro-life,” instead of “equality” and the right to choose; when I defend God’s plan for marriage one man, one woman and as a lifetime commitment—not equality and it’s too much work or he/she just isn’t treating me right.
Mary Magdalene’s grace: to ask and to give forgiveness unconditionally, 7x70, no matter how badly I have been hurt—Christ died for us, to forgive us, there was no blame of anyone for why He had to die on the cross. He could have “saved” himself, He could have walked away, He could have chosen to say no—but he didn’t!! He took the blame for all of our sins. Do we take the blame for our own? Do we accept the responsibility for when we haven’t loved God or our neighbor, our spouse or a family member enough?
John’s grace: to totally trust in God, like a child trust’s their parent to protect them, without fear of persecution, retaliation or condemnation. Do we trust God enough to tell a coach “no” and make a decision to prioritize God and church rather than the game on Sunday? Are we will be willing to accept whatever “punishment” is given to our child as a small sacrifice for God? Do we trust that we will be protected by God when we love unconditionally in our marriages? Are we ready to accept the sacrifice of serving our spouse even when they don’t seem to appreciate all we do for them?
Do you have Mary, Mary Magdalene’s and John’s grace to be at the foot of the cross? Do you say “no” to God by your choice to make something other than God your choice? Are you persevering in God’s commandments—to not put something else before God, to keep Holy the Sabbath, to not gossip, to not envy (keep up with the Jones’), and to not get angry when things don’t go your way?
Come, Holy Spirit, enkindle in me the fire of Your love. May Your grace help me persevere so that I will never say “no” to Our Heavenly Father. Thank you for all of those people in my life who serve as an example to me, because they lovingly accept their sufferings; because they completely trust Your will; and especially for those that love me unconditionally—even when I “mess up” or hurt them with my own choices. Amen.
Thorns in His head, Spear in His side, Yet it was a heartache, That made Him cry. He gave His life, So you would understand. Is there any way you could say no to this man?
If Christ Himself, Were standing here, With His face full of glory, And His eyes full of tears. And if He held out His arms, And His nail-printed hands, Is there any way you could say no to this man?
How could you look into His tear-stained eyes, Knowing that it's you He's thinking of? Could you tell Him you're not ready now, To give Him your life? Could you say that you don't think you need His love?
Jesus is here, With His arms open wide. You can see Him with your heart, If you'll stop looking with your eyes. He's left it up to you, He's done all that He can. Is there any way you could say no to this man? Words from “How can you say No” sung by Steve Angrinaso
My prayer this week is that none of you will say “no” to God—he is calling YOU!!
Blessings,
Charlotte
Monday, March 5, 2012
Transfigured by a YES to God
Women of Faith:
Companions on a journey: part 2. The Women’s YES!!
I was privileged to observe miracles on a “mountain top with God” for the women who attended this weekend’s CEW retreat. Just as I observed last weekend at the men’s CEW, this weekend’s miracles of transformation happened because the women said “YES” to attending a CEW weekend which focused on God’s plan instead of their own.
“And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes become dazzling white.” Mk 9: 2-10 (The Transfiguration)
And through prayer and reflection--they were transfigured before me. Their smiles as they left CEW yesterday reflected the Spirit which was rained down, in abundance, upon them. Blessed by forgiveness they were able to truly open their hearts to the Lord.
We can all be blessed with those truly radiant smiles just by saying YES in our everyday WWJD choices. (God doesn’t say it requires a full weekend—he says it requires everyday!!)
The women were transformed because by giving their time to God, God gave them what he promises all of us: Freedom! They were able to give up their worries and their sins and replace it with the trust, the hope and the strength of His love. They were given the freedom to become one with him.
For many who answered YES to the retreat it was very much a commitment. As we live our normal, hectic lives, this choice may have seemed to be a great burden. Things like laundry, cooking and cleaning were left behind, abandoned, and probably stockpiled for their return home. They were asked to give up work, family commitments, children’s events, and social gatherings.
In yesterday’s gospel we see the ultimate burden when God asked Abraham to give up his only son, Isaac, as a sacrifice to him.
“God put Abraham to the test. He called to him, "Abraham!" "Here I am!" he replied. Then God said: "Take your son Isaac, your only one, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. There you shall offer him up as a holocaust on a height that I will point out to you."
“…Then he reached out and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the LORD's messenger called to him from heaven, "Abraham, Abraham!" "Here I am!" he answered. "Do not lay your hand on the boy," said the messenger. "Do not do the least thing to him. I know now how devoted you are to God, since you did not withhold from me your own beloved son."
“Again the LORD's messenger called to Abraham from heaven and said: "I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you acted as you did in not withholding from me your beloved son, I will bless you abundantly …. You shall find blessing-all this because you obeyed my command." Gen 22: 1-18
When we do not withhold ourselves from God, when we trust God completely, our burdens will be lifted, we will become free and God will bless us abundantly. We can then allow ourselves to become transfigured just as Christ was transfigured.
We are promised that we will be blessed by God, ABUNDANTLY.
“Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow. Come now, let us set things right, says the LORD: Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow; Though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool. If you are willing, and obey, you shall eat the good things of the land; but if you refuse and resist, the sword shall consume you: for the mouth of the LORD has spoken! Is 1: 16-20
We are promised transformation thru a washing away of all of our sins--FORGIVENESS.
We are promised: “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all, how will he not also give us everything else along with him?” Rm 8: 31-32
We are promised eternal life.
But so many of us will say, “I don’t have the time to spend a whole weekend at a retreat, it’s too much of a burden.”
And I am reminded of Mother Theresa’s thoughts: “If I truly want something, I will make the time; if we do not choose to spend time with God, then God must not be our priority.”
Heavenly Father, I praise your transforming love in all of those who seek you and are my companions on this journey. May each of us make you our priority. Help us to choose wisely—in our friends, in our spending and in our commitments. Help us to choose life. Help us choose to spend time with you. Thank you for transforming each of us with your love to be better wives, better mothers, better daughters and better friends. Amen.
Will I say Yes to God? Will I put God first by praying daily? Will I be an example and make time to attend church with my family or do I give in and allow other events to get in the way of Sunday church services? Will I trust God enough to quit worrying about events and people I cannot control?
Will I love enough to forgive those who have done me wrong? Will I defend my faith by defending life?
Will I allow myself to be transfigured? What am I willing to give up for God?
May you be blessed abundantly because you answered “YES!” to God,
Charlotte
Companions on a journey: part 2. The Women’s YES!!
I was privileged to observe miracles on a “mountain top with God” for the women who attended this weekend’s CEW retreat. Just as I observed last weekend at the men’s CEW, this weekend’s miracles of transformation happened because the women said “YES” to attending a CEW weekend which focused on God’s plan instead of their own.
“And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes become dazzling white.” Mk 9: 2-10 (The Transfiguration)
And through prayer and reflection--they were transfigured before me. Their smiles as they left CEW yesterday reflected the Spirit which was rained down, in abundance, upon them. Blessed by forgiveness they were able to truly open their hearts to the Lord.
We can all be blessed with those truly radiant smiles just by saying YES in our everyday WWJD choices. (God doesn’t say it requires a full weekend—he says it requires everyday!!)
The women were transformed because by giving their time to God, God gave them what he promises all of us: Freedom! They were able to give up their worries and their sins and replace it with the trust, the hope and the strength of His love. They were given the freedom to become one with him.
For many who answered YES to the retreat it was very much a commitment. As we live our normal, hectic lives, this choice may have seemed to be a great burden. Things like laundry, cooking and cleaning were left behind, abandoned, and probably stockpiled for their return home. They were asked to give up work, family commitments, children’s events, and social gatherings.
In yesterday’s gospel we see the ultimate burden when God asked Abraham to give up his only son, Isaac, as a sacrifice to him.
“God put Abraham to the test. He called to him, "Abraham!" "Here I am!" he replied. Then God said: "Take your son Isaac, your only one, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. There you shall offer him up as a holocaust on a height that I will point out to you."
“…Then he reached out and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the LORD's messenger called to him from heaven, "Abraham, Abraham!" "Here I am!" he answered. "Do not lay your hand on the boy," said the messenger. "Do not do the least thing to him. I know now how devoted you are to God, since you did not withhold from me your own beloved son."
“Again the LORD's messenger called to Abraham from heaven and said: "I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you acted as you did in not withholding from me your beloved son, I will bless you abundantly …. You shall find blessing-all this because you obeyed my command." Gen 22: 1-18
When we do not withhold ourselves from God, when we trust God completely, our burdens will be lifted, we will become free and God will bless us abundantly. We can then allow ourselves to become transfigured just as Christ was transfigured.
We are promised that we will be blessed by God, ABUNDANTLY.
“Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow. Come now, let us set things right, says the LORD: Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow; Though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool. If you are willing, and obey, you shall eat the good things of the land; but if you refuse and resist, the sword shall consume you: for the mouth of the LORD has spoken! Is 1: 16-20
We are promised transformation thru a washing away of all of our sins--FORGIVENESS.
We are promised: “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all, how will he not also give us everything else along with him?” Rm 8: 31-32
We are promised eternal life.
But so many of us will say, “I don’t have the time to spend a whole weekend at a retreat, it’s too much of a burden.”
And I am reminded of Mother Theresa’s thoughts: “If I truly want something, I will make the time; if we do not choose to spend time with God, then God must not be our priority.”
Heavenly Father, I praise your transforming love in all of those who seek you and are my companions on this journey. May each of us make you our priority. Help us to choose wisely—in our friends, in our spending and in our commitments. Help us to choose life. Help us choose to spend time with you. Thank you for transforming each of us with your love to be better wives, better mothers, better daughters and better friends. Amen.
Will I say Yes to God? Will I put God first by praying daily? Will I be an example and make time to attend church with my family or do I give in and allow other events to get in the way of Sunday church services? Will I trust God enough to quit worrying about events and people I cannot control?
Will I love enough to forgive those who have done me wrong? Will I defend my faith by defending life?
Will I allow myself to be transfigured? What am I willing to give up for God?
May you be blessed abundantly because you answered “YES!” to God,
Charlotte
Monday, February 27, 2012
Companions on the Journey
Women of Faith:
We are all on a journey. A journey that is a direct reflection of the companions we have on the journey with us—be they good or bad—an angel or the devil.
So who are my companions on this journey? And where is my journey going?
Are my companions a reflection of Christ? Are the laws I am following to take the journey God’s laws and will my journey take me to my goal of heaven?
Or do my companions reflect Satan because they find it easier to follow the laws of society? Are they on a journey that is “all about me” and don’t believe in heaven or hell ? Do they deny God’s very existence and live only to seek selfish desires, doing what they want, rather than searching and doing what God wants?
I spent some time this weekend behind the scenes of the Christian Experience Weekend for men (CEW). Even though I was not directly a part of the retreat (for obvious reasons, it was a men’s retreat—the women’s will be next weekend) –indirectly I could feel the change as they became “companions on the journey,” faith companions which support, serve, and nurture each other’s faith journey.
From the very beginning God knew that “it was not good for man to be alone” –so for Adam he created Eve. He invented marriage—between one man and one woman. Even in the beginning he knew sin would create death and if His world was to continue it would take male and female together.
And after Adam and Eve, came Noah who “two by two, male and female came to Noah into the ark” Gen 7:9 so that when the great flood was over they too could repopulate the earth.
And even in the times when Jesus was said to be “alone”--The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him. Mk 1: 12-13—He was not really alone for he was tempted by Satan and supported by the angels. Both God and the devil were with Him. Even Christ had to choose his companion for the journey.
Our first and foremost companion is God but we are given the choice to decide if we will allow him to be with us on our journey.
We don’t choose our first earthly companions. Those companions are our parents. None of us could be on earth without two people who have become one. And even those who have a “single” parent were created not by one, but by two. And we are joined by them to our family.
But as we grow we are given the choice as to who our companions will be, and who will become our support on the journey of life.
Will we choose friends who are the Satan’s that tempt us? Or will we choose an angel of God who supports us to reach an eternal goal?
Who are the companion’s on your/our journey? And how are we taking care of those who we meet on the journey—with patience, in support and with compassion and kindness?
"You shall not bear hatred for your brother in your heart. Though you may have to reprove him, do not incur sin because of him. Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against your fellow countrymen. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." Lv 19: 17-18
'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty, or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?' He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."Mt 25: 44-46
So I watched men come who came to CEW as individuals, each with their own personal reasons for choosing to attend, walk out changed because they had become companions—companions in faith. They had begun to share their individual stories of sin, conversion, forgiveness and healing—and now had a new found group of support and a renewed sense that their journey was not for them alone, but that their journey was to be together with Christ.
Heavenly Father, Praise be your company in my life. Thank you for the friends and family who read this reflection and support me on my journey with you. May your Spirit guide me to be the companion you want me to be for others, and to choose faithful companions for myself. While our paths may be different, may we all be joined together, in the end, with you. Amen.
Blessings on you and the companions you have chosen in your journey,
Charlotte
We are all on a journey. A journey that is a direct reflection of the companions we have on the journey with us—be they good or bad—an angel or the devil.
So who are my companions on this journey? And where is my journey going?
Are my companions a reflection of Christ? Are the laws I am following to take the journey God’s laws and will my journey take me to my goal of heaven?
Or do my companions reflect Satan because they find it easier to follow the laws of society? Are they on a journey that is “all about me” and don’t believe in heaven or hell ? Do they deny God’s very existence and live only to seek selfish desires, doing what they want, rather than searching and doing what God wants?
I spent some time this weekend behind the scenes of the Christian Experience Weekend for men (CEW). Even though I was not directly a part of the retreat (for obvious reasons, it was a men’s retreat—the women’s will be next weekend) –indirectly I could feel the change as they became “companions on the journey,” faith companions which support, serve, and nurture each other’s faith journey.
From the very beginning God knew that “it was not good for man to be alone” –so for Adam he created Eve. He invented marriage—between one man and one woman. Even in the beginning he knew sin would create death and if His world was to continue it would take male and female together.
And after Adam and Eve, came Noah who “two by two, male and female came to Noah into the ark” Gen 7:9 so that when the great flood was over they too could repopulate the earth.
And even in the times when Jesus was said to be “alone”--The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him. Mk 1: 12-13—He was not really alone for he was tempted by Satan and supported by the angels. Both God and the devil were with Him. Even Christ had to choose his companion for the journey.
Our first and foremost companion is God but we are given the choice to decide if we will allow him to be with us on our journey.
We don’t choose our first earthly companions. Those companions are our parents. None of us could be on earth without two people who have become one. And even those who have a “single” parent were created not by one, but by two. And we are joined by them to our family.
But as we grow we are given the choice as to who our companions will be, and who will become our support on the journey of life.
Will we choose friends who are the Satan’s that tempt us? Or will we choose an angel of God who supports us to reach an eternal goal?
Who are the companion’s on your/our journey? And how are we taking care of those who we meet on the journey—with patience, in support and with compassion and kindness?
"You shall not bear hatred for your brother in your heart. Though you may have to reprove him, do not incur sin because of him. Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against your fellow countrymen. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." Lv 19: 17-18
'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty, or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?' He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."Mt 25: 44-46
So I watched men come who came to CEW as individuals, each with their own personal reasons for choosing to attend, walk out changed because they had become companions—companions in faith. They had begun to share their individual stories of sin, conversion, forgiveness and healing—and now had a new found group of support and a renewed sense that their journey was not for them alone, but that their journey was to be together with Christ.
Heavenly Father, Praise be your company in my life. Thank you for the friends and family who read this reflection and support me on my journey with you. May your Spirit guide me to be the companion you want me to be for others, and to choose faithful companions for myself. While our paths may be different, may we all be joined together, in the end, with you. Amen.
Blessings on you and the companions you have chosen in your journey,
Charlotte
Monday, February 20, 2012
In Awe
Women of Faith:
My first title this morning was Rise Up and Say Amen. I wanted to write about Ash Wednesday and beginning anew. But there are some mornings when I don’t seem to have words, when I know what is in my heart but I don’t have the energy to think so I just want to use someone else’s words.
Not only am I searching for words, but for hope and light. I just want to be able to say “yes, amen, that’s right.”
I suppose it is human nature to doubt. I feel like my faith is strong, like I should have enough faith to always believe, but yet I am constantly awed by what is set before me.
I said to someone earlier this week, “Things just keep happening, in a good way, but not always in good circumstances. And I continue to feel, each time, “wow” can that really be. What just happened? I am awed by God’s presence. But, why am I still surprised and in awe? Awe and wonder is one of the seven gifts of the Spirit we receive at confirmation.”
So while some of you may be doubting and/or searching, I pray that you will have the faith to believe and have hope.
And for those of you who have been given, by the Spirit, the gift of awe in His presence, I pray that you will share your faith by being an example of hope, joy and love for others.
These are the words set before me this morning, the first song I heard, the bible verse I last read and words from both yesterday and today’s readings. I am so in awe!
“Everybody falls sometimes. Gotta find the strength to rise from the ashes and make a new beginning. Anyone can feel the ache. You think it’s more than you can take. But you're stronger, stronger than you know. Don’t you give up now. The sun will soon be shining. You gotta face the clouds to find the silver lining.
I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains, hope that doesn’t ever end. Even when the sky is falling I’ve seen miracles just happen, silent prayers get answered, broken hearts become brand new. That’s what faith can do.
It doesn’t matter what you’ve heard. Impossible is not a word. It’s jus t a reason for someone not to try. Everybody’s scared to death when they decide to take that step, out on the water. It’ll be alright. Life is so much more than what your eyes are seeing. You will find your way. If you keep believing.” What Faith Can Do – Kutless
“For however many are the promises of God, their Yes is in him; therefore, the Amen from us also goes through him to God for glory. But the one who gives us security with you in Christ and who anointed us is God; he has also put his seal upon us and given the Spirit in our hearts as a first installment.” 2 Cor 1: 20-22
“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”* Eph 5: 14
"Why could we not drive the spirit out?" He said to them, "This kind can only come out through prayer." Mk 9:29
I am so in AWE!!
Heavenly Father, It is in your presence that I am awed! Thank you for the gift of awe and wonder sent by your Spirit. Give us strength to begin anew in this Lenten season and to rise from the ashes!! Help those who are struggling to find You. May they have the faith, strength and courage to ask for your guidance and wisdom. May they answer your call and do your will. Help me to continue to feel that “WOW!” To see the silver lining in the clouds and to pray unceasingly. I say, “Yes! Amen! I believe!” Amen.
God says it all! I can say no more—Have an AWEsome week,
Blessings,
Charlotte
My first title this morning was Rise Up and Say Amen. I wanted to write about Ash Wednesday and beginning anew. But there are some mornings when I don’t seem to have words, when I know what is in my heart but I don’t have the energy to think so I just want to use someone else’s words.
Not only am I searching for words, but for hope and light. I just want to be able to say “yes, amen, that’s right.”
I suppose it is human nature to doubt. I feel like my faith is strong, like I should have enough faith to always believe, but yet I am constantly awed by what is set before me.
I said to someone earlier this week, “Things just keep happening, in a good way, but not always in good circumstances. And I continue to feel, each time, “wow” can that really be. What just happened? I am awed by God’s presence. But, why am I still surprised and in awe? Awe and wonder is one of the seven gifts of the Spirit we receive at confirmation.”
So while some of you may be doubting and/or searching, I pray that you will have the faith to believe and have hope.
And for those of you who have been given, by the Spirit, the gift of awe in His presence, I pray that you will share your faith by being an example of hope, joy and love for others.
These are the words set before me this morning, the first song I heard, the bible verse I last read and words from both yesterday and today’s readings. I am so in awe!
“Everybody falls sometimes. Gotta find the strength to rise from the ashes and make a new beginning. Anyone can feel the ache. You think it’s more than you can take. But you're stronger, stronger than you know. Don’t you give up now. The sun will soon be shining. You gotta face the clouds to find the silver lining.
I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains, hope that doesn’t ever end. Even when the sky is falling I’ve seen miracles just happen, silent prayers get answered, broken hearts become brand new. That’s what faith can do.
It doesn’t matter what you’ve heard. Impossible is not a word. It’s jus t a reason for someone not to try. Everybody’s scared to death when they decide to take that step, out on the water. It’ll be alright. Life is so much more than what your eyes are seeing. You will find your way. If you keep believing.” What Faith Can Do – Kutless
“For however many are the promises of God, their Yes is in him; therefore, the Amen from us also goes through him to God for glory. But the one who gives us security with you in Christ and who anointed us is God; he has also put his seal upon us and given the Spirit in our hearts as a first installment.” 2 Cor 1: 20-22
“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”* Eph 5: 14
"Why could we not drive the spirit out?" He said to them, "This kind can only come out through prayer." Mk 9:29
I am so in AWE!!
Heavenly Father, It is in your presence that I am awed! Thank you for the gift of awe and wonder sent by your Spirit. Give us strength to begin anew in this Lenten season and to rise from the ashes!! Help those who are struggling to find You. May they have the faith, strength and courage to ask for your guidance and wisdom. May they answer your call and do your will. Help me to continue to feel that “WOW!” To see the silver lining in the clouds and to pray unceasingly. I say, “Yes! Amen! I believe!” Amen.
God says it all! I can say no more—Have an AWEsome week,
Blessings,
Charlotte
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