The Voice of Truth

Good Morning, dear reader. Well, we have come to the end of another week. Isn't it lovely, learning all about the wonders of Jesus's works among the people?! It gives us such hope. 

Speaking of hope, the stories of Tabitha and Aeneas are miraculous! We have a man who has been paralysed and a woman who spent her days serving the Lord, both miraculously given new life! We don't know why these two people were specifically chosen by Jesus, especially since we know that there were so many more people who were just as deserving. 

This is a question so many of us ask when we are faced with tragedy in our lives. Why us? Why them? What did we do to deserve this? These questions can fester so deep that it drives us from our faith. We feel God has abandoned us. And, sometimes, it can feel that way. With all my problems of late, I would have every reason to ask why God is letting this happen. I've been good. I'm trying to spread His word. So why is all this still happening? The answer is I don't know. Life happens. Bad things happen to good people. It's what we do with that knowledge that makes the difference. I chose to remain faithful to God. It's all I have left. I have to trust in the fact that things will eventually work themselves out. It has to. And, I know, regardless of the outcome, God will be right there helping me through it. 

In John's Gospel, we see what happens when we don't want to take what is given to us. We go back to our old ways. Jesus watches as those who once believed in His word decide it is too tough to stay the course. He lets them walk away. He doesn't beg them or cajole them or make them feel guilty. That is because we are given a choice. We were given free will. Jesus isn't standing there with a gun to our heads saying we'd better believe in Him or else. I think this did sow a little doubt in Jesus because He turns to His apostles and wants to know if any of them wish to walk away. He doesn't want them to feel pressured to stay. He wants them to be there of their own accord. But Simon Peter makes the point, "to whom shall we go?". Exactly. Where else CAN you go? 

Now that I look at it, our reading in Acts goes hand-in-hand with our reading in John. Again we are being given a choice. Do we want to stick it out with Jesus and hope for the best? Is our faith strong enough to withstand doubt? I think that's a really good summary for all of it. Is our faith strong enough? Can we stay the course? Are we willing to stay? Think about that today. Really think. If everything in your life were to go kerflooey right now, would you still believe in Jesus? Would you still put your trust in God that it will all work out? 

I'm just gonna leave that there.... while you ponder that... remember, be a nice human. 😇

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://youtu.be/dXQ5ZLZZHj0

This is "my song".. it reminds me that I need to listen to the voice of God, the voice of truth... "The Voice of Truth" by Casting Crowns, from the movie "Facing The Giants". https://youtu.be/_YgfiaLk0kE

Purposeful Intent

Good Morning, dear reader. It would seem that I have picked up a nasty bug. Despite that, I soldier on... so let's get to it!

Let me start with this… what is purposeful intent? It might seem a straightforward answer. It is doing something with meaning, with deep thought. You meant to do this, you expected this.. much like we’ll see Stephen when he looks up after telling off the old geezers (lol) of the Sanhedrin. We should approach our faith with that same purposeful intent. To really put thought and effort into what Jesus is trying to teach us. We also need to put that same effort into our prayer lives. Believe and you will receive! Ok… now on to today’s lesson… 

This morning's reading in Acts shows us a very angry Stephen. I actually had a bit of a giggle at the things Stephen had to say! "You stiff-necked people.." (v51) Yup, that pretty much describes them! lol, He tells them that their archaic attitudes need to change. You can't keep people from speaking freely about something or someone they believe in. If they didn't like you or the things you had to say, you were thrown into some dank, dark prison and forgotten about. Things remained this way for a very long time. Now Stephen is calling them out. He'd had enough. Someone had to speak up. It might as well be him.
Stephen's courageous outburst can be explained by the fact that it was the Holy Spirit within him that gave him the bravery needed to speak out. This can be confirmed because we see in verses 55 and 56 that Stephen looked up, saw God and Jesus standing before him, "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". He wasn't just looking up.. he was looking up intently.. with a purpose, with rapt attention. He expected to see something. He expected something to happen. 

At this point, the Sanhedrin had had enough. This guy needs to go and he needs to go now! So they drag him out of the city limits. But this still was not enough to satisfy their anger, so they decide to stone him. This will send a clear message that no one is to speak out against this counsel, no one is to speak of Jesus. Something very powerful then happens. As Stephen is being stoned, he looks heavenward and says "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (v59), followed by "Lord, do not hold this sin against them"(v60). Hmm... these words sound mighty familiar... Stephen is speaking the same words Jesus did as He was hanging on the cross. Here you are being persecuted for speaking the truth, and yet you tell God to not hold their sins against them. I don't think I could be that forgiving. I'd probably be thinking that eventually the Karma bus is going to come around and will make its stop in front of the Sanhedrin. Not Stephen. He wants to follow in Jesus's footsteps and ask forgiveness of these men. 

As we move into the Gospel of John, we are still talking about the bread of life discourse. Jesus is trying to explain the whole idea but the men seem a little..dense? They want some giant show. "What sign can you do?" (v30). I would imagine that at this point Jesus rolls His eyes and thinks "What am I, a magician?!". Why do people always insist on proof? Does no one have faith anymore? Is faith not seeing but believing? Once the people hear this, they want to know how they can get in on this. They want what Jesus is offering.

Do you want what Jesus is offering? Are you looking for a deeper meaning in life? It is so easy to attain. All you need to do is accept Jesus into your heart. Allow Him to transform you and your life. Over these weeks, we have learned about how death and sin were overcome by a single sacrifice, Jesus. How one person gave His life so that we could be free. Free to worship, free to speak of Jesus's name, and free to believe in what He has to offer. We don't need signs and miracles for proof. We simply need to believe. Think about all this today. Think about what you need for you to believe in Jesus. While you're thinking of all this, try to remember that you should always be a nice human. 😇

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://youtu.be/z6HGMslyI5k

The Crucifixion and Forgiveness

Good Morning, dear reader. Happy Sunday! We embark on our journey into the third week of Easter. The resurrection was so glorious and miraculous that we celebrate it for 50 days, ending on Pentecost Sunday. As a matter of fact, the Easter season is more important than Christmas!! 

We have touched upon the book of Revelation in previous posts. As you will recall, Revelation is mostly symbolic in nature. It is not to be taken literally. There really isn't much explaining needed for this passage. In today's reading, you will see Jesus Christ referred to as the Lamb. We also hear this at mass when we pray "Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us." just before we receive communion. Equating Jesus with a lamb means that He is the perfect and ultimate sacrifice for sin. (There's a longer explanation, having to do with Passover and its celebration, but this is it in a nutshell.) All the creatures in heaven and on earth rejoice and honour God and His Son, Jesus.   

Now, on to John. Jesus asks Peter three times if he truly loves Him. He asks this because Peter was the one who denied Jesus three times before His crucifixion. So, now, Jesus is a little doubtful about how faithful Peter is to Him. However, Jesus is willing to forgive Peter and the role he played in His death. As we have seen throughout the Gospels, Peter becomes the most favoured and important Apostle. Probably because he did feel guilty about what he did to Jesus and now wants to make up for it. 

I think what this passage is trying to convey is that no matter how bad our actions are, Jesus is always willing to forgive and give us another chance. This doesn't mean you should keep doing something you know is bad just because you know that Jesus will forgive you. He can sense when you are insincere, and He will dole out punishment. I'm just saying, that in our everyday, imperfect lives, we mess up. We're all sinners. It's comforting to know that I can never be so awful that Jesus won't forgive me and bring me back to His care. This is our assurance of salvation through His death and resurrection. This is what Easter is all about. So, dear reader, you can rest assured that Jesus will never stop loving you or caring about you. Just try to be a nice human, though. The world will appreciate it. 😇

**I have omitted the video today because Father Bill doesn't upload any on Sunday. Also, it seemed today's readings were ones we have done previously, so I picked the second reading. You'll just have to make do with my thoughts! lol 

Obedience to God's Word

 Good Morning, dear reader. I pray that you are well and that your day is blessed. Let us hop right into our readings for today. 

We see our brave disciples, Peter and John, are still in front of the Sanhedrin, where they are being tried for speaking of Jesus Christ. The men of the Sanhedrin reiterate that they had warned Peter and John about continuing to teach and preach about Jesus and what would happen to them if this continued. Since these warnings were disregarded, Peter and John are precariously perched for harsh punishment from the Sanhedrin. This, however, does not strike fear in the two. They know it is better to follow God's commands rather than man's. They remind the council of the fact that they put Jesus to death, "The God of our ancestors raised Jesus, though you had Him killed by hanging Him on a tree" (v. 30). This did not sit well with the Sanhedrin and only served to anger them further and inch them closer to being put to death. Peter and John were so devoted to Jesus that they were willing to put their lives on the line for Him. They would rather suffer the wrath of man than betray their faith. How brave these two men were! And how steadfast they remained in their faith!! 

John's Gospel, basically reiterates what we just read in Acts. Jesus's disciples tried to teach of the goodness of the Lord, but some would not listen. Those who do not listen and believe will not receive their glory in heaven and will not be cleared of their sin. Those that DO believe will find hope and life everlasting through Jesus Christ.

These are some pretty powerful words. It makes our own faith feel pretty flimsy. There are not many who would put their lives on the line defending their spiritual beliefs (well, maybe radical extremists, but that's a horse of a whole other colour. lol). We can strive to be better disciples of Christ. We can deepen our beliefs and understanding of God's word. We just have to make that commitment. You have taken that first step when you decided to come here today, to learn more of what the Bible says about our faith, to grasp a better understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ. That's really awesome!  I'm following right along with you. Hence the reason I started this blog. I needed to get back to my faith. I need to be reminded that Jesus is right here with me as I struggle. Jesus is with you, too, dear reader, through all your struggles, triumphs, moments of doubt and moments of clarity. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other each day. Every little step is a step of progress. And remember.... be a nice human. 😇

I just found this website. It follows the Bible and in the lower right-hand corner, it tells where in the Bible it is. I couldn't find a small clip that matched today's reading, so if you fast-forward to 29 min into the film, that's where it begins. It ends at 31 min. The entire film for the book of Acts is a little over 3 hours if you want to watch the whole thing. https://www.jesusfilm.org/watch/book-of-acts.html/english.html

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ho8vqliCGyQ

John 3:16

Good Morning, dear reader! This morning's readings remind us of the glory of the risen Son! Our second reading contains one of the most well-known Bible verses. So that is where I shall start this morning.

This whole passage is basically self-explanatory. It is a gift from God that was freely given to us. It is a promise of life everlasting. In this world that is full of darkness and uncertainty, it is something that gives us hope and comfort. It is something we know is for sure. To me, this is the one thing that gives my life any meaning. 

The reading in Acts shows us what the Apostles suffered through as they tried spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. It wasn't JUST Jesus that the Sanhedrin was after, but the entire "Jesus Movement". Was it because Jesus was more popular than the kings? Was it because what Jesus brought to the people was greater than what a king and pagan gods could do for them? It could be all of this and more. We don't know exactly what their thought process was. But, whatever it was it wasn't good news for Jesus's disciples. 

Here is how my Bible explains it:

A second action against the community is taken by the Sanhedrin in the arrest and trial of the Twelve (apostles). The motive is jealousy of the religious authorities over the popularity of the apostles, who are now charged with the defiance of the Sanhedrin's previous order to them to abandon their prophetic role. In this crisis, the apostles are favoured by a miraculous release from prison. The real significance of such an event, however, would be manifest only to people of faith not to the unbelievers; since the Sanhedrin already judged the Twelve to be inauthentic prophets, it could disregard reports of their miracles.**

Our world seems upside down and nothing seems to make sense. It is my hope that this has brought you some comfort and reassurance. Keep believing, keep spreading His word, and, as always.... be a nice human.😇

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUXkosLJDX0

"Praise You In This Storm" by Casting Crowns (my favorite Christian band): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ype1xE0wzsg

**Hiesberger, J. M., Breen, C., Lucinio, J., Marcheschi, G., & Mazza, B. (1995). The Catholic Bible: Personal study edition. Oxford University.

The Road

Good Morning, dear reader! We're halfway through the week! Today we are continue our study of the Easter message. The reading in Acts will enlighten us as to the apostles journey as they seek to preach the good news of Jesus Christ and bring more believers to Him.  And in Luke, we will see that Jesus is working on revealing Himself to his followers. 

This morning, in Acts, we see Peter and John on their way to temple where they meet up with a man who was handicapped. They stop to talk to him and figure while they're at it, they can heal the man through the power of Jesus Christ. And so they do. This man was overjoyed to be able to walk again! It is with these signs and deeds that the apostles were able to convert so many more to believe in Jesus! What more powerful message could one need than to see a man who couldn't walk, suddenly able to stand up and enter into the temple on his own two legs! You've got me sold! In this case, seeing is definitely believing!! It is stories like this that encourages us to stay the course and keep walking with Jesus! 

As we move into our reading in Luke, the story begins on the same day that the empty tomb was discovered. Two of Jesus's disciples are walking along discussing what just happened. They are still in a sort of daze. They're trying to process the whole thing. As they're walking along, they meet up with a "man" and the "man" asks them what they are talking about. The two must've been quite puzzled that this "man" had no clue as to recent events. Has he been living under a rock!??! However, once he had been brought up to speed, it would seem that he had a good grasp on what it all meant. He goes on to explain that Moses and the prophets were right in saying that the suffering of Jesus was necessary as a part of God's plan. He wanted them to understand that this wasn't just some random persecution. This HAD to happen. As the men are listening, something inside them tells them that this is not just any man. There was something about him, something that excited them...but they just couldn't figure out what it was. It was that "gut feeling" you get when you meet someone.  It is not until later, after Jesus revealed HImself to them at the supper, that they realize that their heart recognized Jesus, even if they didn't physically know who He was at the time.

What all this amounts to is that we have to have continual faith in Christ even if we can't feel Him or see Him. We know that He is there and will never leave us. You need to rely on faith. Your heart still knows even if your brain doesn't. When you are mired in the dark and struggling for understanding, let your heart be your guide. Let your faith be the path that leads you to peace. You will eventually get to a place where everything will make sense. You will see God's plan and know that you are stronger for having come through it. "If God brings you to it, He will see you through it". Remember that. And as you are walking the path, also remember to be a nice human. 😇 

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xi1kii4hieE

A familiar hymn, but with a little more "oommph": https://vimeo.com/700496586

Alive!!!

Good Morning, dear reader. Once again, we are seeing the story of the empty tomb in John's Gospel. But, this time, the focus is solely on Mary Magdalene. We can see she is heartbroken over the death of Jesus, and now she comes to anoint His body but He's not there. She is bewildered. Who would take a body? Suddenly, someone appears. Maybe now she can get some answers. In her grief, she wasn't really paying attention to whom she was speaking. But, when her name is called, she looks at the person speaking and realises it is Jesus! How joyous she was to see her beloved Jesus standing there! He has one simple request for her, to go and tell the apostles that she had seen Him, and soon He will be going to His Father in heaven. The way Jesus phrases it, He acknowledges that His Father is also OUR Father, God in heaven. And God is the Father to us all. What happy news!! We can take such comfort in this. Regardless of what earthly family we may or may not have, we are assured that we are not alone in this life! I, for one, am so grateful for this! No matter what happens, God will always be looking out for me. 

Building on the reading from John, we see in Acts 2 the rest of Peter's speech to the people. He is telling them that God sent Jesus to be Lord and Saviour, through His death and resurrection. We only need to confess our sins and be baptised, then we will have eternal life with God. 

In verse 40, what really jumps out at me is when Peter says, "save yourselves from this corrupt generation". The society of that time is not much different from our society now. We see corruption and the destruction of faith everywhere we turn. We are becoming a Godless society. Wealth and power is valued more than a humble heart and a desire to serve. Kindness has all but disappeared. Those who live on the fringes of society, the poor, the homeless, the sick, those who are just keeping their heads above water, they are all but ignored. These are the people that Jesus wants! These are the people He spent His life ministering to. These people often have the deepest of faith because they have nothing else to hold on to. 

I can tell you, dear reader, that this is true because I, and my husband, fall into this category. It is my faith that is getting us through this struggle. It is keeping me from all but giving up. I HAVE to believe that God has a plan. There IS a reason for this, even if I can't see it right now. And that's what I'm trying to convey to you, dear reader. Even if things seem hopeless, if things are out of control, if life seems to smack you in the face, you NEED to hold on to the promises given to us from God! I know how it feels when you're struggling. Like God has all but abandoned you, start doubting your faith. I'm right there with you. But, if I give up, if I doubt my faith, what's left? Not much of anything. And that's not a place I want to be. I've been there. It's not pretty. 

So, if you are struggling, if you feel God has put your pleas on mute, or has just left you hanging, don't give up! Keep reaching out for Him! He hears you! I promise!! You can always leave me a comment, even if it's just to ask for prayer. We hold each other up and God holds us up! So keep moving forward.. and, as always, regardless of the struggle... be a nice human! 😇

Father Bill's reflection on today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSouhz4F-ZY 

This video... such a living illustration of today's readings!! Please share it with others! It is "Alive (Mary Magdalene)" by Natalie Grant, from the movie "The Story": https://youtu.be/Om3mm2dv--k

On Unity and The Greater Good

Good Morning dear reader! Today is our last Saturday of Lent. Tomorrow is Palm Sunday, and thus will begin our progression into Holy Week.

Well, our reading in Ezekiel is really something. God is saying that He wants unity among His people and His nations. I'm sure that present-day Israel is still praying for this. And I'm sure that God is saddened by what it still happening there. His idea of peace for this nation never really came to fruition. If you take a look at verse 22 where God says "Never again shall they be two nations, and never again shall they be divided into two kingdoms", yet Israel is still divided to this day. I often think that if the Palestinians and the Israelis sat down together and opened a Bible, it would be the end of any war. There is no disputing what God's intention was for these people. Oh, if only it were that easy. 

What is astounding, though, is that despite the constant attacks, the constant war, millions of people STILL make a pilgrimage to Israel every year to walk where Jesus once walked, to see the places where Jesus taught and travelled, to touch the waters that Jesus once touched. The Jews and Muslims seek the same things. To walk in the places where Abraham and Mohammad walked, to soak in that holiness of that place, to visit consecrated ground and to just experience the immense history that is Israel. We need to realise that we are all one people, Christians and Jews and Muslims all speak of God, just in their own way. I pray that one day peace will come to those areas. That the three major faiths can worship in peace and safety. 

On to our Gospel... to start with, the Sanhedrin, they were the Jewish Supreme Court. They were much as our Supreme Court is today. They had the final say in rulings, both political and religious. As word of Jesus began to spread, as testimony of His works took hold, the Jews started to worry. What would happen if all the people started believing in Jesus and stopped believing in Abraham and the teachings of the God of the Old Testament? They felt threatened. It was easier to get rid of this Jesus than try to fight the people. Sacrifice one for the good of all. 

Jesus knew His days were numbered. He knew what was coming. He also knew the significance of sacrificing The One for the good of all. This was His destiny. So,

Jesus left the city and went to some place quieter where He could prepare for what was to come. To spend time with those closest to Him. He also knew that He had to leave because if the Jews spotted Him, He would be arrested, but it was not His time, yet. He needed to follow His Father's plan. And His being arrested at that time was not part of the plan.

Do you know what God's plan is for you? Are you following it? For those of you who, like me, have absolutely no clue what God's plan is, are you being patient and waiting to see what His plan is? Are you talking to Him? Are you actively paying attention to any signs He may be trying to show you? Take some time this week as we take that final walk with Jesus. You just might find your own resurrection story. 

Be blessed, dear reader. And, as always... be a nice human. 😇

Father Bill's reflection on todays readings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2Qs1M5mwLo

Seeing is Believing

Good Afternoon, dear reader! Today, we are again seeing the theme of words and deeds. If our words and deeds don't match up, then people feel no confidence in you. You absolutely need to "walk the walk and talk the talk". 

We see, in today's first reading, that the prophet Jeremiah is speaking out against those who have persecuted him. He is aware of the fact that his supposed friends are always waiting for him to make a mistake, to find some fault. He warns his detractors that God may come down to exact His revenge. Notice how he says MAY. That one little word will make them wonder. This is not a direct threat. It's more of a passive-aggressive statement. I believe that Jeremiah also phrased it this way because he knew that it was not up to him to judge or punish these people. God may come to punish.... or He may not... are you willing to risk it?! lol

When we look at todays Gospel, we see it is similar to our last few readings in this book. The Jews are mad, they think that Jesus is committing blasphemy for saying He is the Son of God or God incarnate. It seems no matter where Jesus goes, these people just don't understand. Jesus tries to tell them that it's fine if they don't want to believe His words, but look at the things He has done "If I do not perform my Father's works, do not believe Me; but if I perform them, even if you do not believe Me, believe the works" (Jn 10:37-38, NAB). This is clearly a case of seeing is believing. 

Once again, the Jews try to arrest Jesus, and once again He avoids it, as it is still not His time to be captured. After all this, Jesus decides to go to the river where John the Baptist baptised Him. He again encounters more people. They tell Jesus that even though John did not perform any sort of miracles, the things he said about Jesus were true, so this Jesus is the real thing. Again, a case of seeing is believing.

Sometimes it's hard trusting in people, especially if they say one thing and do something else. How can you actually believe what they say? We see this so much in the world today. Promises are made, rhetoric abounds. It is up to us to discern whether or not they will live up to the things they say. We need to decide based on reputation and past actions if they can be trusted. It's a sort of slippery slope. 

However, we as Christians know that faith comes from believing in what we cannot see. But, God gave us the ultimate sign that we CAN believe....the empty tomb. We know that God lived up to His word. We can believe all that was prophesied in the Old Testament, we saw it play out in the New Testament. We saw it played out on the cross. Because of this, we know that we can trust in everything God does and everything He promises us.

Be blessed, dear reader. And, as always.... be a nice human. 😇

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pixbZ_rJjJQ

"What Faith Can Do" Kutless https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1JBSQMkQEo

Promises

Good Afternoon, dear reader. We see the promises of God fulfilled both in the Old Testament and the New Testament. 

In Genesis, God assures Abraham that his family will multiply and lead for generations. The amazing part of this tale is that Abraham was 90 years old!! This was a miracle only God could perform. This gives all of us hope for the future. If God could use Abraham in his old age to build a kingdom, just imagine what God can do with us! We just need to trust in His timing and His promises, no matter how difficult things may seem. 

As we move to our Gospel reading, we again see Jesus trying to tell people that He was God in human form and that He knew Abraham and his joy at being assured of a future. The Jews thought Jesus was insane or possessed by the devil. They were so incensed by this, that they began to throw stones at Jesus! Jesus knows this a fight He can't win, so He choses to just walk away. 

This reminds us that we are to chose our battles carefully. Sometimes the best answer is no answer. As long as you are following Jesus and doing good, there's not much else you can do. You also need to remember that your words speak of who you are. Be sure you are only speaking in kindness. Oftentimes, your reputation will be built upon your promises, your actions and your beliefs. 

Today, do a "gut check". What is your reputation like at this moment? Do you follow through with your promises to others? Do you speak kindly and with encouragement? Make sure you're walking with God and doing the right thing. And, as always friend, be a nice human. 😇

Father Bill's reflection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_07kj4ntgfI

"Words" by Hawk Nelson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bf_H7Lwl0FI

A Leap of Faith

Good morning and a blessed Saturday to you, dear reader. I hope this finds you well. As we draw near to Holy week, we look at what it is to have faith and allow God to guide us each day.  

In today's world, it's not an easy task to be a Christian. There are so many ways which will lead us astray of God and His plans for us. Sometimes it can feel like we are the lambs being led to slaughter. How many times have you done something, then regretted it, because "it seemed like a good idea at the time"? I know I'm guilty of it. I imagine God must be banging His head up there, wondering what it will take to get us to listen. He keeps trying to send people to deliver His message, but people being people, we often don't pay attention. Sometimes it takes a holy uprising, so to speak, to get us to realize that we've lost our way. 

I think that God decided to send down Jesus to us to see if maybe a "kinder and gentler" approach might work better. Sometimes that old fire and brimstone just don't cut it. Jesus preached forgiveness and peace. But, still, people would not listen. Who was this Man who talks a good a game? He's not from around here. We are suspicious of strangers. They must have some sort of ulterior motive. They're looking for something. Jesus was the ultimate stranger in a strange land. 

Sometimes we can't see what's in front of us. Maybe there is no "end game", maybe
there is no ulterior motive. Sometimes it is what it is. If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it must be a duck! And that's what Jesus is.. He's our duck. He is what He appears to be. A simple Man, sent from God, on a mission. 

That's what we see here, in John's reading. Word of Jesus has spread far and wide. But people are still doubtful. He speaks so eloquently and with conviction. He is cool and confident. Some are willing to risk it and not believe He is who He says He is. But, still others, not so much. Maybe this is Him. Just because He's not from around here doesn't mean it can't be Him. Just because He speaks with such knowledge and compassion.... 

When we believe in Jesus, we have to take that leap of faith. We have to trust that Jesus is who He says He is. I can personally atest to the fact that I have a hard time just saying ok, Lord, take this and YOU deal with it because I can't. Will He really do it? What will happen if I don't do anything except rely on Him to fix it? But that's what it means to have faith. That's what it means to believe. That's what it is to be a follower of Jesus. We step out of that fear, that darkness, that uncertainty. 

Today, try and have a bit of a conversation with Jesus. Give whatever your burden is to Him. Take that leap of faith. He will hear you. I promise. And, as always, dear reader... be a nice human. 😇

***Pray and meditate on Psalms 142 and 143***

Have a listen to Father Bill. He pretty much speaks of what I have written. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u86ozLIx4AI 

Some musical encouragement, Chris Tomlin "I Lift My Hands"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c24En0r-lXg

It's All In The Timing

Happy Friday, dear reader! Rejoice, for the Lord has seen to it that you have awakened and are here! 

The first part of the reading from the book of Wisdom reminds us that life is fleeting, we are only here temporarily. Eleanor Roosevelt once said "Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why we call it the present". I think that sums it up pretty well! The other part is that the only sure thing that we can count on in life is that we will all eventually die. It is unavoidable. 

The second part of the reading we see the foretelling of the coming of Christ. The book of Wisdom was written about 150-180 years BEFORE His birth! We also read of His persecution and death. We get the whole story before it even starts. This is why we need to understand the Old Testament before we get to the New Testament. When we finally do see the birth of Christ in the New Testament, we can truly appreciate how His whole life was preordained and that the promise of a Saviour has been fulfilled. 

Moving on to our second reading, again from the book of John. We are slowing working our way up to Jesus's crucifixion. We see more and more the disbelief of some of the people regarding who Jesus really was. The people thought they would recognise who the "true Messiah" was because He would be someone that they wouldn't know, They were familiar with Jesus, as His reputation was spreading like wild fire. There was no way He could be the Messiah. Jesus tries to explain to them that, yes, they know of Him and where He comes from. But, He did not wind up here accidentally. God, His Father, the One they have never seen, was the One who sent Him. Of course, this further incensed the people. They wanted to throw Him in jail, but they didn't. For some reason, they knew the timing was just not right. 

Timing is everything in life. Arrive too early and things haven't started yet. Arrive too late
and you probably missed something important. God's timing is always perfect because He had already set things in motion. To us it may seem like forever, but with God, it's more like in the blink of an eye. In this way, God is teaching us patience. We have to hang in there to see how the story ends. We can't hurry things along. That would mess up God's plan for us. We need to realise that everything in our lives happens for a reason, even if we don't know what that reason is. Even Jesus had His doubts at times. But He knew that His Father had a plan and He had to trust in that plan. And, like Jesus, we need to trust in the plan that He has made for us. We may not like waiting. We are impatient creatures. It is in those times that we need to seek out Jesus and ask Him to help us see the way clear. To follow what He wants for us. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it. With Jesus, all things are possible! 

So, dear reader, just hang in there. Keep steady the course. You'll get to where you need to be. Just not in your time. Ask Jesus to give you peace in the waiting. And as I always remind you, be a nice human, because someone else is playing the waiting game too. 😇

Father Bill's reflection on today's readings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=truwsDP_wvY

Following in a Father's Footsteps

Good Morning, dear reader. We're half way through another week, and getting closer to celebrating the resurrection of Jesus!! 

This morning's readings show us that God is the giver of life, and as such, has chosen to share that power with His son, Jesus Christ. We also Jesus as the obedient Son, carrying out the will of God, His Father.

In Isaiah, God is reminding His people that He will never forget them, much like how a mother can not forget her child. It is in this promise that we are assured that, no matter what, we are never far from God and He is never far from us. "See, upon the palms of my hands I have written your name" (Is 49:16, NAB). Although this is meant to say that God will continuously remember each one of us, I also think that it can relate to how, when Jesus went to the Cross, our names were taken with Him, so that we would also have eternal life with Him. That as the nails were driven into His hands, our sins were driven out. 

Sometimes we can feel that God has forgotten us. We feel that our words are not reaching Him. Our pleas for help go unanswered. But, He reassures us, that just as a mother can not forget her child, as such, He will never forget us. He hears our cries, He sees our pain. And just as a mother gives comfort to her child, so God will comfort us. 

As we move into the Gospel of John, we take up where we left off yesterday, with Jesus healing the man in Bethesda. The Jews are angry that this Man, this Jesus, should dare to say that God is His Father! Jesus tells them that just as a son will follow in his fathers' way, so He does follow God, His Father. And those that follow Jesus, those that hear His word and obey, will be given life. Jesus goes on to explain that it's not all on Him, He is doing what His Father has willed. Don't forget.. "THY will be done".. God's Will, God's chosing. Jesus can listen, He can advise His Father, Jesus can, in a way, act as proxy for God. Verse 27 explains this in just one sentence "And He (God) gave Him (Jesus) power to exercise judgement, because He (Jesus) is the Son of Man." Jesus goes on to emphasise this point at the end of our reading "I cannot do anything on My own; I judge as I hear, and My judgement is just, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the One who sent Me (God)." (Jn 5:30, NAB) Think of it this way... "Wait till your father gets home!!" Yup, now you've really done it! lol

Be blessed, dear reader. And, as always... be a nice human. 😇 

Father Bill's reflection for today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQAj0543vIE

Video for the song "Thy Will Be Done": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dp4WC_YZAuw

Signs

Water. It's important. Something we need for survival. In the Bible, we see water as cleansing. It is used to baptise the believers, it is used to heal, to bless, to wash. Matter of fact, water is so important that it is mentioned in the Bible 722 times! In the story of the leper, he is told to bathe in the river Jordan seven times and he would be healed. Naaman got angry with this. He thought that God would come down and lay healing hands on him in order to be cured. He was expecting some sort of grand miracle. Instead, he is basically told to take a bath in dirty water. (At that time, the Jordan was a muddy river.) You'd think that was the last thing you should be doing!! 

Apparently Naaman's servants knew something he didn't. I guess Naaman figured he had nothing to lose if he tried this. At the very worst, he would still be a leper. So he did as Elisha had said. And voila! That did the trick! He was absolutely thrilled!! He then went back to Elisha and offered to give him gifts for this magnificent healing. But Elisha refused. He wasn't looking for anything other than helping this man as God had wanted.

When we pray for healing, don't we expect some great thing to happen like we see in the movies? Something that is an undeniable sign that God hears us? We always seem to be looking for the grand gesture, the big bright sign. We want tangible, unmistakable signs that God is moving in our lives. We tend to overlook the simple, the every day. There is a beautiful song by Laura Story called "Blessings" which reminds us that sometimes God's work shows up in ways we wouldn't expect. "What if your blessings come through raindrops? What if your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know Your here? What if trials of this life are Your mercies in diguise?" Sometimes the best things are the simplest things. And that's what God wants us to understand. Don't look for the big answer. Don't look for glam and glitz. Remember this acronym, KISS-- Keep It Simple, Stupid! lol 

Today's Gospel reading involves our first reading. I've often found that in order to understand the New Testament, you need to understand the Old Testament. Much of what we see in the New Testament harkens back to the Old Testament. It's a reaffirmation of the coming of Jesus, the birth of a Savior. We are reassured that these things will happen and that they were preordained by God, delivered through prophets, signs and symbols. 

Our story opens with Jesus being back in His hometown of Nazareth. He attends  temple on the Sabbath day (Yes, Jesus was a Jew.) He spoke eloquently and the people were impressed. But when He told the story of Naaman the Syrian, this story really made the crowd angry. The people of Nazareth want a glorious sign that Jesus is, indeed, the Man who will save them. Why should the people outside of this city, outside of this country be the benefactors of Jesus's healing? Why are the lowest of the lowley being helped? Why include the poor? Do they think these people aren't worthy of what God is giving because they are looked down upon? 

All of this enrages those at the temple and they throw Jesus out and try to kill Him. This will be a common thread as we work our way through the New Testament. It is the foreshadowing of Jesus's eventual death upon the cross. He is constantly rejected, His life threatened. How could this Man, son of a carpenter, be the promised Savior? Why does he include the ones who aren't a part of "mainstream" society? Why doesn't Jesus perform grand miracles to prove who He is? Surely this Man must not be who He claims He is. We see this doubt throughout the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and Acts. 

When we pray, don't look for immediate answers. Don't look for the bright neon billboard saying that God heard you and will be with you shortly. It doesn't work that way. It's all in the timing, God's timing and not our own. Keep plodding on, waiting, and praying. You'll eventually get your sign, it just may not be in the way you expected.

Today, look inward. What kind of signs are you hoping for? What are your expectations? Take that inner reflection to Jesus and ask Him to help you have patience, hope and faith. Ask Him to remind you that it's in the little things. Keep an open mind and an open heart. It will come to you eventually.

Be blessed dear friends. And, as always..... be a nice human.😇

"Blessings" by Laura Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xRNrnh__SE

Today's reflection from Father Bill Hill: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fatr7Y_Rp4A

 

Spiritual Health

 Read: Deuteronomy 26:16-19 

           Matthew 5:43-48

Most of us today watch what we eat, we exercise, we do what we can in order to maintain a healthy body. BUT, what are you doing to keep your spirit healthy? Did you know that it takes more energy to be miserable than it does to be happy? So, why not do something for a healthy soul? 

In today's reading, God tells us to LOVE those who hate, who antagonise, who are miserable. He is issuing us a challenge. Sure, it's easier to be kind to those who show us kindness, but, that's the challenge! Think of it this way, by showing kindness and compassion, you are actually helping your physical and spiritual health! Why no go forth and spread some kindness today!! Be the example! Walk in your faith!

Be blessed my friends. And, as always, be a nice human. 😇

Here's a great video from Hawk Nelson on the power of words:

https://youtu.be/Bf_H7Lwl0FI

This morning's thoughts from Father Bill:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EioyYMkBkfQ

***Remember... copy and paste links into your browser.***

Prayer

 Today's reading takes us back to the subject of prayer. We see in Esther that she is totally reliant on God to help her as she is about to go to Emperor Haman to plead with him to not destroy the Jewish people. Verse 14 tells us how she prayed "Then she prayed to the Lord, the God of Israel, saying "My Lord, our King, You alone are God. Help me, who am alone and have no help but You, for I am taking my life in my hand." 

Think about this for a moment. Do you totally rely on God? Do you trust in His will for you? Most of us can answer this rather quickly with an unequivical "no". Relinquishing our own power can be scary. But that's just the point. When you rely on God to guide you in your every day life, you should have no fear. God knows what He's doing. He will help you through whatever it is you are facing. You just need to ask.

Which brings us to Matthew. He tells us outright "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and the one who knocks, the door will be opened." We just need to ask God to move in our lives. He is the ultimate waymaker. He hears our pleas, He knows what we need.

Reflect on what your prayer life look like today. Do you make time daily to spend with Jesus? If not, then why? Examine your heart, speak your fear, and wait on God's heavenly timing. You may not get what you ask, but you will get what you need.

Spend some time today in prayer. Open your heart and your ears. Allow God to speak to you. 

Here's another lovely video from Fr. Bill Hill from Holy Spirit Catholic Community.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKdGUcE6Gtg&ab_channel=hsccwyo

Here is a lovely song to help you prepare your heart to pray

https://youtu.be/iJCV_2H9xD0

**copy & paste links into your browser**

Repentence and Change

 The overarching theme for this Lenten season is repentence. We see it over and over in the readings we have done so far. However, with Jonah, not only is this about repentence, but it is also about second chances. 

Jonah is often referred to as the reluctant prophet. Most of us are familiar with the story of Jonah and the whale. That was his first chance to do what it was God asked of him and he messed it up. 

So now, God comes to him a second time. He wants Jonah to go to Nineveh to deliver the message that the city will be wiped out in 40 days if they do not repent of their sins. When this message reaches the king, instead of brushing it off or not believing, he runs to the people and tells them what will happen. The people know the power of God and are quick to gather, to fast, to ask forgiveness for their sin. The king hopes that when God sees what they have done, He will spare them, which God ultimately does.

We see the reference to Jonah and Nineveh in Luke's Gospel. Jesus is speaking about change and repentence. He is what Jonah was to Nineveh. The One who will come to save all of us once we give up control to Him and to follow Him. He is the something more than Jonah. 

I found this video with a wonderful commentary on today's reading. Much better than what I have written. Take a moment to check it out. It's only a little over 6 minutes. (You may have to copy and paste the link into your browser..)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_1yTQVOqts&ab_channel=hsccwyo

Prayer

 

Good Morning Lovely People!! 😇

Today's word brings us to the topic of prayer. We are reminded that God hears our prayers and often knows what we need before we utter a single word. But, like every good father, He wants us to actually come to Him and tell Him what we need. This is, indeed, a humbling act. Which is why He expects this of us.

In this morning's reading from Isaiah, God reminds us that His word gives us nourishment of the soul, much like bread gives nourishment to the body. In Matthew's Gospel, God tells us HOW to pray, saying "Thy will be done", just as in Isaiah it says "It (our prayers) shall not return to Me void, but shall do My will". 

When we hear "Thy will be done", how do you interpret it? Do you think it means that God hears you and it will get done or do you hear that HIS WILL will be done? There's quite a difference in the meaning of each. When we follow God's plan for us, when we do what He wills us to, then we will achieve what it is that God wants from us. We do His will, His bidding, but it is always all for good. So we must "pray always" with intent, wait to hear God's response and trust that He knows what He's doing. I can promise that it won't be easy, but it will be worth it. 

Be blessed dear friends. Go forth and spread the word of God. 

First Sunday of Lent

 

So often in this world we are tempted by so many things, some good and some not so good. During Lent, we are called to give up something as a sacrifice for our faith, to remind us of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus on the Cross.

We all know that when we give up something, it seems that we are presented, almost on a daily basis, with visual reminders of that which we have give up, thus making our sacrifice that much harder. But, we learn to persevere in our sacrifice, knowing it will result in something much greater at the end.

Sacrifice and temptation lies at the heart of our faith in Jesus. How many times was Jesus asked to prove He was the Son of God? We see in Luke's Gospel that the devil asked this same question of Jesus. Prove it. Prove who You say You are. But, Jesus did not give in. I'm sure He must have been tempted, if for no other reason than to shut the devil up once and for all.

How many times have we been in the same situation? Is it easier to give in or easier to walk away? Which would give us the most satisfaction? Is it worth the sacrifice to just walk away? I believe that the harder the decision, the greater the reward. Doing the right thing is hard. Saying no in the midst of being tempted is the hardest thing to do. But, the satisfaction that comes from doing right is always a good thing.

As we walk through this time of Lent, remember that your sacrifice is pleasing to God. It makes you stronger. And the end result is that much sweeter.

Prayer:

Dear God,

The battle feels intense some days. We get tired and weak, weary and worn. It's hard to keep going in the face of defeat. But, help us to remember that You will never leave us, that You're our Refuge and our Strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. We know that the enemy wouldn't be fighting so hard against us if we weren't making a difference for Your Kingdom. He wouldn't be trying so hard to stop us if he didn't think You had so much good still in store. Remind us that the battle belongs to You, and whatever we're up against can be taken down in one fell swoop by Your Mighty Hand.

Help us to trust You more, to never waste time spinning our wheels and wrestling or fighting our strength. Please forgive us, Lord, for the times we've failed to lift our hands to You, for the days we've forgotten to come to You first. Fill us with the Power of Your Holy Spirit this day. Fill us with Your joy, fill us with constant reminders that Your presence will go with us, and that You will give us rest.

Amen.

First Friday of Lent

 Read: Isaiah 58: 1-9; Matthew 9: 14-15

As we begin today, we are reminded of why it is we fast. We make a sacrifice. Sacrifice. A word we see so much of during the Lenten season. It is because all that we deny ourselves brings us closer to Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice. It reminds us of that sacrifice. How small what we deny ourselves compared to what Jesus did. 

With that being said, Friday is also about redemption. We need to be reminded that we are sinners, and for that there must be a way for us to atone for our sins. We need to step out of ourselves and see the bigger picture. We need to walk in our faith. We need to humble ourselves at the foot of the cross. Isaiah 58:9 tells us "Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer, you shall cry for help, and He will say: Here I Am!" It seems a lot to be asking of us. And it is. But that is precisely the point of the whole thing. We are saying that we are imperfect. We are saying that without Jesus to guide us, we become creatures of the flesh. 

When we bring our suffering to Jesus, when we call out for His help, He meets us where we are, and takes up our offering, combining it with His own. And with this we are redeemed and renewed in His love and forgiveness. We are redeemed through His blood that He shed for us. We rejoice in this, and we are reassured of His ever lasting love. 

Be humbled today. Remind yourself that what you are giving up is so much more than the physical. You will walk in His beauty and light. "Then light shall rise for you in the darkness, and the gloom shall become for you like midday" (Isaiah 58:10)