1 John 2:12 (New Year's resolutions...)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

I am writing to you, children, because your sins have been forgiven for his name's sake. 1 John 2:12

Living Faith snippets: "We aren't very good at forgiveness, either offering or accepting. It's nearly New Year's Day. Instead of a bunch of resolutions you will find hard to keep, call or write a loved one, mend a fence, seek forgiveness, offer your love." by Paul Pennick

Rich's comments: "Love means never having to say you're sorry," is a line from the 1970 film Love Story starring Ali MacGraw and Ryan O'Neal. This quote may seem romantic by Hollywood standards, but it misses the mark of what real love is by a mile. Love is saying you are sorry whether you are wrong or right. Love is more important than winning an argument, or holding a grudge. At church, when we offer peace to one another, I always find it most important to offer peace to my wife. During this time, I like to focus on the events of the past week and where I have fallen short of maintaining peace in our relationship. I take this opportunity to re-establish a commitment to her to be forgiving and patient in our marriage as a sign of my love for her.

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers (brain surgery recovery), Mike Castle (eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (granddaughter Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Patrick's prayer list), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Liz Curry (friend Bill), Dan Castle (for alcoholics to accept intervention)

Faith Quote: "Forgiveness is an act of faith. By forgiving another, I am trusting that God is a better justice-maker than I am. By forgiving, I release my own right to get even and leave all issues of fairness of God to work out. I leave in God's hands the scales that must balance justice and mercy." by Philip Yancey

The next devotion is Mon, 5 Jan...Happy New Year!

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 2:34 (strip away worldly shell)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

This child is destined for the fall and rise of many... Luke 2:34

Living Faith snippets: “The liturgical readings today try to nudge us away from the nostalgic memories to the start reality that Christ's birth creates division between those who accept and those who reject him, those who love and those who hate. Allow some extra time in the Christmas spirit, letting it strip away the shell we grow to protect our hearts and souls in an insecure, troubled world. Christmas is about a child, and children invite us to honesty, vulnerability and love. Spend a few quiet moments in prayer [each day]. In your daily interactions, choose love, choose vulnerability, choose discipleship. Christmas is meant to last all year." by Sr. Kathryn J. Hermes (author of Journal for Surviving Depression and Making Peace with Yourself)

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/.
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (eye infection), Jason Peters (son JP), Carolyn McKissack (granddaughter Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (health issue), Rob Ouellette (St. Pat's prayer list), Rich Reich (Granny's health issues), Liz Curry (Bill, Julie), Dan Castle (for alcoholics Josh/Rachael)

Faith Quote: Sharon Carlson shared this one. "You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever." Psalm 16:11

Feast Day (St. Thomas Becket): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=12.

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat

Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Psalm 25:4 (God’s path)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Your ways, O Lord, make known to me; teach me your paths. Psalm 25:4

Living Faith snippets: “How do we discover God’s paths? One way is through Scripture. Another way is through the example of others—the saints, spiritual writers and exemplary individuals of earlier ages or our present day. Another way is by consulting with someone we sense is close to God: a priest, a spiritual director, a friend or family member. And lastly, we can, like the psalmist, simply ask God to show us the way we should go. Sometimes the direction we should take is written by God in the movements of our heart.” By Sr. Melanie Svoboda, S.N.D.

Rich’s comments: The following is a story shared during my pastor’s homily this past Sunday. "I have been travelling a lot lately from city to city helping different parishes prepare for the advent season. I find myself printing out the directions on MapQuest and then following the directions while I am driving. The other day though I almost got in a car accident while trying to look at the piece of paper with the directions. I decided enough was enough and I bought myself a GPS for my car. The GPS is wonderful. It tells me, “Make a left turn on 1st avenue, turn right on 13th street.” Then I approach a familiar road, and I know that this is the way that I go, but the GPS says, “Make a U-turn now.” I am like no, I know this road. This road will take me where I want to go. The GPS insists, “Make a U-turn immediately.” Sometimes we are misdirected in life (like the GPS) and we need to have faith in the guidance God provides us in the movements of our heart."

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (Rachelle/Isaac, eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Patrick's prayer list), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Liz Curry (friend Bill)

* (New) Dan Castle: for alcoholics to accept intervention, particularly my girlfriend Lisa's brother (Josh) and sister (Rachael)

* (New) Sue Peters: for God to truly be in charge of JP's care (her grandson)

Faith Quote: “Faith is the light that guides you through the darkness.” by unknown author.

Feast Day (St. John of Kanty): “John of Kanty is a typical saint: He was kind, humble and generous, he suffered opposition and led an austere, penitential life. Most Christians in an affluent society can understand all the ingredients except the last: Anything more than mild self-discipline seems reserved for athletes and ballet dancers. Christmas is a good time at least to reject self-indulgence.” http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/SaintOfDay/default.asp?id=1238

Through Christ Our Lord,
Rich
Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

1 Samuel 1:28 (Merry Christmas!)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Now I, in turn, give him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the Lord. 1 Samuel 1:28

Living Faith snippets: "Wonderful and mysterious things happen when we are willing to hold lightly what God has given to us. Although Hannah has longed for a child, she did not cling to Samuel, but consecrates the child she has so ardently prayed for to the Lord. Each of us has something that we long for with all our hearts. While our desires are not bad in themselves, we can become obsessed and lose our freedom if we make this desire the center of our universe." by Terri Mifek

* Let's pray that our desires are in check with the first commandment (God is #1), embracing God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as the center of our universe!

Christmas:

* My Mom (Kathy Castle) shared this powerful 5 min video, click O Holy Night. This short video has clips from The Nativity Story, showing the true meaning of Christmas. Our Savior Jesus Christ is born!

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (Rachelle/Isaac, eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Patrick's prayer list), Pat Castle (Mom's sinus infection), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Liz Curry (friend Bill, Julie/family)

Faith Quote: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Wishing our LIFE Group a most holy and merry Christmas!

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat

Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 1:10-12 (prepare for the Lord...)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Then...the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the alter of incense. Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. Luke 1:10-12

Living Faith snippets: "There's much to ponder in the story of John the Baptist's conception and birth. We're moved to consider Zechariah's faith, and our own, in the presence of God and His ways." by Amy Welborn

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "Love‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "Dearest Ones, For me, the Christmas Season is summed up in one word, LOVE! Love is self-sacrificing, which means it always costs something. It hurts to put others first. Love requires us to believe in people even though they may fail us many times. Because we love people, we don't say some of the things we want to say - we refrain from pointing out their faults. We can't do this alone for love comes from God. But God gives us the strength and the courage to love the unloveable. "Above all, have an intense love for one another. Love covers a multitude of sins. A new commandment I give to you that you love one another just as I have loved you." These are the farewell words of Jesus to his best friends. Wrap yourself around somebody this Christmas, someone needs your Love!"

God sightings: Share ways we have encountered God in our lives (miracles!).

* Beth O'Connor shared: "My 7 yr old son, Tom, is in 2nd grade at our parish school. While preparing for First Reconciliation, his teacher taught them to give a blessing by making a cross on the person's forehead with a thumb and saying, "[Name], may God bless you now and always." He now has to give each of us one every night and will even bless the phone if one of us is not home at bedtime. Now, my almost 2 year old daughter, Catherine, also wants to be part of it - a full hand to the head and saying, "Blesssssssssss". They are really God to me in these moments of their child-like faith."

* "Praise and thanksgiving: You open yourself up to hearing from God when you praise Him for who He is and what He has done, and thank Him for it. Praise and thanksgiving invite God's presence into your life. Choose to praise and thank God no matter what your current circumstances. Acknowledging that He is in control in all situations will draw you closer to Him and help you recognize Him at work." author unknown

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (Rachelle/Isaac, eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Patrick's prayer list), Pat Castle (Mom's sinus infection), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Liz Curry (friend Bill)

Faith Quote: Steph Spader shared this quote. "There are very few people who realize what God would make of them if they abandoned themselves into his hands, and let themselves be formed by his grace." St Ignatius

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 1:20 (dreams)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream... Matthew 1:20

Living Faith snippets: "Have we lost an important conduit to God? I wonder if we'd learn more about ourselves and God if we developed our ability to remember dreams and our willingness to discuss and trust them." by Aileen O'Donoghue

Rich's comments: My wife Erica loves taking long trips in the car with me. It is not, because of the scenery, but because she has me captive for the duration of the trip to listen and talk with her with minimal distractions. I believe that God uses our dreams to speak with us for much of the same reason, we are prepared to listen to Him without distractions. Much of our praying to God probably involves a lot of us doing the talking and not a lot of listening. I like to take the opportunity to pray before I go to bed; not only to praise God and thank Him for my blessings, but also to present Him with my worries and problems. I usually wake up the next morning with a sense of peace and direction. Here's wishing you a good night sleep tonight and pleasant dreams.

Jesus' Christmas list: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (Rachelle/Isaac, eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues)

* NEW: Rob Ouellette (Bob, Joanne, Donna, Don, Carol, Jack & Nancy, Molly)

* NEW: Pat Castle (his mom, battling infection)

* NEW: Rich Reich (Granny, health problems)

Faith Quote: "Fear can keep us up all night long, but faith makes one fine pillow." by unknown author

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 1:1 (family acceptance, Bible, "Merry Christmas")

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Matthew 1:1

Living Faith snippets: "Jesus embraced humanity. Mysteriously, the word became flesh and accepted all that came with it, out of love. What about my family tree and all its baggage? Sometimes I find myself wanting to run from it, excising all of that messiness that courses through my veins. I can't do that, though. Sure, I'm not fated to anything. I can be transformed, I can take a different turn in the road. But total rejection? Not possible. It's all part of who I am. With God's help I can discern, move forward and even accept. Out of love-I can accept. Jesus, teach me through my own family tree." by Amy Welborn

LIFE Group nuggets:

* I noticed this AF slogan yesterday, "Anytime/Anywhere." Sounds like a slogan for our awesome God! Also, here are snippets from an article (link) that compliments Tracy's video (below): "So far, ten of the billboards have been erected in Ohio...that say "I miss hearing you say Merry Christmas" and "It's OK to say Merry Christmas." Both billboards are signed "Jesus.""

* Tracy Humphreys shared this upbeat and humorous 4 min music video (link) about saying "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays."

* Chad Livingston shared this challenging thought from Rob Bell. "First, the scripture always bends towards the oppressed and the marginalized. Beginning in the Torah—take care of the widow, the orphan, the stranger among you. And it continues, no room in the inn, they follow Jesus because they are hungry. The story always goes towards the underside of the Empire. I think it is sometimes hard for the American church to understand the Bible because we are the Empire. We are the ones in power, the ones with wealth. There are six billion people in the world, three billion live on less than $2 dollars a day, 800 million people will not eat today, and 300 million in Africa alone do not have drinking water. We are the upper, upper, rich elite. So we have to first ask the question—how can we take all this wealth and give it away? All the technology and beautiful parts of capitalism and bless the world and the poor—or else we're in deep trouble." (full interview link)

God sightings: Share ways we have encountered God in our lives (miracles!).

* Kathy Castle shared: "Joe was born on September 25, 1966 after a miscarriage. The dr. told me I would never have children, which of course makes the rest of you all miracles! BIG SMILE."

* "The Bible: God may cause a portion of Scripture to jump off the page for you while you're reading it. He may make you aware of how it applies to your life right then and use it to lead you in a particular way. The Bible is...the standard by which you should check everything else you think God may be saying to you. Be sure to keep the context and original intent of Scripture passages in mind." author unknown

Jesus' Christmas list: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* NEW: Last week an Academy officer was rightfully given a medal of courage for keeping an injured motorist alive until the medics arrived. Perhaps someday we will courageously love a mother who is considering an abortion (listening, resources, praying, etc)...keeping the baby alive until the Holy Spirit is able to penetrate the mother's heart (metanoia) and save the baby's life.

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (Rachelle/Isaac, eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (Bailee with Crohn's)

* NEW: Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (Bob, Joanne)

Faith Quote: Stephanie Spader shared. "Do not think that love, in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary." by Mother Teresa

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Psalm 34:7 (eternal perspective)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

When the afflicted man called out, the Lord heard, and from all his distress saved him. Psalm 34:7

Living Faith snippets: "I am grateful for God's consolation in times of sorrow and for his supportive grace in times of weakness. As I grow older, it becomes clearer that I could not have gotten through these difficulties without God's generous, compassionate help." by Fr. Kenneth Grabner, C.S.C.

Rich's comments: My grandmother died late Sunday night in Oregon on December 14th. Although I was not with her during her final moments, I am happy that my family was there to surround her with God's love and compassion. The natural response for humans this side of eternity is to be sorrowful and scared with the passing of a loved one. We don't understand death, and we fear what we don't understand. To overcome this fear of death we need to change our point of view to an eternal perspective. Many more people have died and now live than those who are presently on earth. Due to the victory of our Lord over death, we can say, “Where there’s death, there’s hope." Although it may seem difficult and contradictory to our emotions, as Christians we should rejoice when our loved ones die, because they are reunited and living with Jesus for eternity.

God our Father,

Your power brings us to birth,

Your providence guides our lives,

and by Your command we return to dust.

Lord, those who die still live in Your presence,

their lives change but do not end.

I pray in hope for my family,

relatives and friends,

and for all the dead known to You alone.

In company with Christ,

Who died and now lives,

may they rejoice in Your kingdom,

where all our tears are wiped away.

Unite us together again in one family,

to sing Your praise forever and ever.

Amen.

Jesus' Christmas list: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Pat Castle (Kathy Ayers recovering from brain surgery, Mike Castle eye infection), Liz Curry (friend Bill recovering from heart surgery), Jason Peters (health of son JP, http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jppeters), Carolyn McKissack (granddaughter Bailee with Crohn's), Rob Ouellette (Sally, Jim, Kevin, Joe, Carla & two Mary's)

Faith Quote: "We are told that Christ was killed for us, that His death has washed out our sins, and that by dying He has disabled death itself. That is the formula. That is Christianity. That is what has to be believed." by C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Psalm 25:9 (God sightings)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

He guides the humble to justice, He teaches the humble His way. Psalm 25:9

Living Faith snippets: "I'm reluctant to say, or even think, that God speaks to me. But there have been times when a voice that does not sound like my own does speak. Dear Lord, teach me your ways." by Aileen O'Donoghue (physics teacher at St. Lawrence University, author of "The Sky Is Not a Ceiling: An Astronomer's Faith")

God sightings: Today's snippets (above and below) inspired me to start this new thread for us to share our "God sightings" and share ways for us to encounter God acting in our lives.

Pastor Don's devotion: Read his devotion titled "Advent miracles" at http://pastordonbird.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "I am reminded this week of the greatness of our God and the miraculous way He enters into our lives. My prayer is that through this Advent season, each of us is able to experience a miracle. For some it may be one of incredible magnitude that changes our lives drastically. For others it may be in a simple encounter that alters our perspective and catches a glimpse of the holy in our lives. And still for others it may be in the ordinary routine of life as we look deeper into the hearts of those we surround ourselves with everyday. This is a season of miracles - not just on 34th Street...but in the paved roads and dirt roads of our lives. May the Miracle of the World reveal Himself to you this Christmas season!"

Jesus' Christmas list: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

* (NEW) Scott Casmer shared: "There is a subdivision of the [C. Springs] Catholic Charities called "Life Connections" that does all the things this group is about [click here]. Making donations is nearly painless. On the following link, they show how $1000 donation ends up costing the donator only $187. I plan to donate this week. Others may want to consider it. [click here]."
* (NEW) My family received this wonderful Christmas gift from Rich & Erica Reich. "In your honor, a gift has been made to Heifer International to help struggling people around the world become self-reliant for food and income. May this gift bring you joy as it brings hope to families in need (a sheep, three rabbits, a flock of chicks, and a hive of honeybees)."

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Rich Reich (Grandma with health problems), Pat Castle (Kathy Ayers recovering from brain surgery, Mike Castle eye infection), Liz Curry (friend Bill recovering from heart surgery)

* NEW: Jason Peters (health of son JP, http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jppeters), Carolyn McKissack (granddaughter Bailee with Crohn's), Rob Ouellette (Sally, Jim, Kevin, Joe, Carla & two Mary's)

Faith quote: Angi Castle shared this quote. "We should not live in the clouds, on a superficial level. We should dedicate ourselves to understanding our brothers and sisters." Mother Theresa

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 1:38 (yes, God!)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Luke 1:38

Living Faith snippets: "Moved by God's grace, Mary chose to respond with loving faith to the plan God had laid out for her, a plan she did not fully understand. God promises to be with us when the events of our lives carry us beyond our ability to understand them. Our trust in God will ultimately bring us peace of mind and heart. God will certainly give this gift to all who pray for it, for without faith, our lives can have no meaning or joy." by Fr. Kenneth Grabner

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "Whatever you think is what you become...‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "I watched the Hallmark special, "Front of the Class." As a young boy, Brad Cohen became afflicted with Tourette's Syndrome, a neurological condition which causes one to twitch, utter odd noises and at times makes one feel out of control. In 1997, Brad was chosen "Outstanding Teacher of the Year" in the entire state of Georgia. When asked why he thought he received this honor, he said it was because of Tourette's Syndrome. Without this challenge, he felt he would not have succeeded. I wonder if each of us has a "Tourette" in our lives, some difficulty to overcome? God loves us just the way He made us! Keep on having a faith-filled Advent and you will have a beautiful Christmas!"

Pat nuggets:

* Sr. Francelle said "keep on having a faith-filled Advent." Not having a faith-filled Advent is like going to a buffet meal and not getting full. We have so many opportunities to experience our faith during this Christ focused time. At the Thurs morning Chemists for Christ Bible (CFC) Study, Joel Cain pointed out that the networks still play the Charlie Brown Christmas special where Linus tells Charlie Brown the true meaning of Christmas (Luke 2:8-14, see 1 min video).

* Today's verse is my favorite Christmas scripture because by definition everything good flows from our obedient, faith-filled "yes" to God (first commandment). Sr. Francelle said, "I wonder if each of us has a "Tourette" in our lives, some difficulty to overcome?" The answer to this question is "yes"...and our "yes" to God is the source of everything we need to overcome the "Tourette" (challenges) in our lives. By saying "yes" to God's love, my brother Dan is a recovered alcoholic who celebrated his 1 yr sobriety birthday on 1 Dec. Dan is now using his "Tourette" (alcoholism) to help other alcoholics find sobriety. By saying "yes" to God's love, my Uncle Mike is a recovered Vietnam Vet and now uses his "Tourette" (war trauma) to help other war veterans find peace. In a recent email, my brother Steve had this to say to my Uncle Mike. "You have been an example of God’s love to me. Your caring heart for others is second to none. Thank you for taking on the pain and suffering to become that man you are today. Frankly, I’m a better person for knowing you as a broken and shattered marine – a “bloody brother”. Thank God for the first “bloody brother” – Jesus." [See faith quote section below.]

Jesus' Christmas list: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Rich Reich (Grandma with health problems), Pat Castle (Kathy Ayers recovering from brain surgery, Mike Castle eye infection)

Feast Day (Our Lady of Guadalupe): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=456

Faith quote: "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains; it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” C.S. Lewis

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Psalm 145:9 (step back and pray)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

The Lord is good to all; and compassionate toward all his works. Psalm 145:9

Living Faith snippets: "Sometimes it's difficult to arrive at that point when we need to understand that we've done as much as we can do for another person. It's hard and painful, but at times necessary, to step back and pray that God's compassion, which is faithful and real, will touch another's heart, even if we have to step aside in the process." by Amy Welborn

Rich's comments: My wife Erica prayed for me for 9 years. I didn't even know that she was praying for me. That is true love. She prayed that I would grow stronger in my faith and have a relationship with Christ so that we could grow closer to God together. God heard her prayers and assigned us to move to Colorado Springs so that I would meet my running partner and dearest brother Pat. Jesus used Pat to touch my heart and bring me closer to Him. Erica understood that she could not force me to have a relationship with Christ, but through her perseverance in prayer (Romans 12:12) that God would take over. I am happy to say that now Erica and I pray together.

Jesus' Christmas List: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Kathy-jo Peterson (friend Dave with brain cancer), Rich Reich (Grandma with health problems), Pat Castle (Kathy Ayers recovering from brain surgery, Mike Castle eye infection, Joe Castle medical appt today)

Faith Quote: "Love means to commit oneself without guarantee, to give oneself completely in the hope that our love will produce love in the loved person. Love is an act of faith, and whoever is of little faith is also of little love." by Erich Fromm

Feast Day (St. Damasus I): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=41

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 11:28 (find rest with Christ)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Living Faith snippets: "Jesus offers rest from our grueling burdens and arduous efforts. What surprises me is how easily I forget this generous invitation when I am overwhelmed with work or with troubles that inevitably arise. Instead of leaning on the heart of Christ, I give in to anxiety and worry. I work even harder and spend later hours in the office. I squirm and struggle, trying to get things to develop my way. Instead of turning to prayer and giving more attention to my divine resource, I lessen the time, believing it will help me "get more done." What a crazy response to Christ's wonderful invitation. I can receive an easing of what consumes me...if I deliberately slow down, become still, and turn my heart toward the One who urges, "Come to me." by Sr. Joyce Rupp

Pat nuggets:

* Today's devotion snippets (above) offer us great spiritual perspective and a rejuvenating resource to help us stay filled with peace and joy during this special (and busy) Advent time!

* I heard on NPR this morning that sadly 830,000 children die throughout the world from auto accidents. Rightfully, advocates discussed practical ways on how many of these lives could be saved with safety precautions. According to the Center for Bio-ethical Reform, ~42 million abortions occur every year throughout the world (115,000 per day) http://www.abortionno.org/Resources/fastfacts.html. As ProLife advocates, what can we do to help save some of these lives? Kerry Tragesser shared that Planned Parenthood of Indiana advertised Christmas gift certificates that could be used for abortions (http://www.ppin.org/news.aspx?NewsID=84). To help counter this Culture of Death influence, we could donate to a Culture of Life influence in the name of a friend or family member (as a Christmas gift). For example, we could contribute to the "$5 donation drive campaign" for LifeSiteNews or to Priests for Life.

Jesus' Christmas List: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Kathy-jo Peterson (friend Dave with brain cancer), Rich Reich (Grandma with health problems), Pat Castle (Kathy Ayers recovering from brain surgery, Mike Castle eye infection, Joe Castle medical appt today)

Faith Quote: "All sectors of life can be illuminated with the light of the faith. I am thinking, among other areas, of the world of culture, science and politics; of the promotion of the family founded on marriage between a man and a woman; of the creation of more just working conditions and the assistance of the disadvantaged; of concern for the environment; of defence of human life at every stage of existence, and of the right and obligation of parents to the spiritual and moral education of their children." Pope Benedict XVI

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 18:12

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? Matthew 18:12

Living Faith snippets: "God shows his love by never giving up on us. This seems incredible, but since God is love, it is simply his nature to seek what is lost. Perhaps this is why Jesus so often tells us not to be afraid. No matter what we do, we can never do anything that will cause God to stop loving us." by Fr. Kenneth Grabner, C.S.C.

Rich's comments: I remember going on extremely long shopping trips with my mom when I was young. I would easily get bored following her around the large department store, and usually something would catch my eye that I thought was more interesting. The distraction would keep me from noticing that I was slowly moving further away from her, and before I knew it, I was lost. The distraction quickly faded and I was surrounded with panic and fear as I searched down every aisle of the store, desperate to find her. Just as I was contemplating how a 10 year old boy was going to make it on his own in the world, I heard a loud intercom voice "Would a little boy named Ricky please report to the front of the store, your mother is waiting for you." Sometimes we are not always lucky to have God call us over a loud speaker, but He is there waiting, longing for us to be reunited with Him. Once we remove ourselves from our worldly distractions, we can hear Him calling us home.

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

*NEW: "It is easy to be ProLife. It is much harder to be proactively ProLife" by Glen Flores, leader of ProLife Alliance at the University of Florida

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Liz Curry (friend Bill recovering from heart surgery), Kathy-jo Peterson (friend Dave with brain cancer), Rich Reich (Grandma with health problems), Pat Castle (neighbor Kathy Ayers having brain surgery today)

Feast Day (St. Juan Diego): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=73

Faith Quotes: "Have no fear of moving into the unknown. Simply step out fearlessly knowing that I am with you, therefore no harm can befall you; all is very, very well. Do this in complete faith and confidence." by Pope John Paul II

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 1:28 (obstacles, greed, God's love, silent no more, Mary)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you. Luke 1:28

Living Faith snippets: "Mary's "yes" is not just about her and God. It's about all of us...the whole, winding, messy journey of humanity. She's giving herself over completely to God for His loving purposes. Only God can clear out the obstacles [see Faith quote below], which He did for Mary from her conception [see Holy Day below]. And which He does within us, too, beginning with the waters of baptism and continuing with each "yes" we offer Him. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you...[pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death]." by Amy Welborn

Pastor Don's devotion: Read his devotion that I titled "Combating Greed" at http://pastordonbird.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "I hope and pray that this email finds all of you in a place where your hearts are open to receiving Christ today. That is what this Advent season is all about - preparing our hearts for Christ to live and reign in us! As Christians we often times rail against the commercialization of Christmas. We can easily identify the greed in others, but are we ready to identify the greed in our own lives? How much do we spend this time of year on things that, come next Christmas, we don't even use anymore? The dictionary defines greed as "an excessive desire for getting or having". Greed goes beyond the material. Are we greedy with our time? Wanting to use it on the things we enjoy and not offering that time in service to others or God? Are we greedy with our attitudes, believing that our wants are above the needs of others, always expecting something in return? We are reminded this time of the year of a selfless, sacrificial God who comes to us in the form of an innocent, tiny baby. The only thing He is greedy for is His excessive desire for the hearts of each of His children. Let's allow God to search our hearts and prepare us for the coming of our King. Before we look at the greedy world and condemn it, let's look at our own greediness and ask God to heal it. Romans 12:1-2. This Advent season, let God bring the best out of each of us and if we are going to be greedy for anything this season, let's be greedy for Christ and have an excessive desire to do His will."

Jesus' Christmas (birthday) List: This is how we give Jesus a Christmas (birthday) gift..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure, faith, hope, love) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in dire need of our Christmas gifts?

* NEW: Everyone is in dire need of God's love...let's share the gift of God's love.

* NEW: In mid Dec, Patti Kryzanowski (C. Springs) is taking gifts to the Lakota people on the Pine Ridge Reservation in SD. Please let me know if you have anything to donate.

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* NEW: Beth O'Connor shared..."The Silent No More campaign, designed to promote awareness of the pain abortion causes, has created a series of YouTube videos at http://www.youtube.com/silentnomorecampaign. Please view as many of the videos as possible."

* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, John Peak (parent's health & his deployment), Liz Curry (friend Bill recovering from heart surgery)

* NEW: Kathy-jo Peterson (friend Dave with brain cancer), Rich Reich (Grandma with health problems), Pat Castle (neighbor Kathy Ayers having brain surgery today)

Holy Day (Immaculate Conception): http://www.catholic.com/library/Immaculate_Conception_and_Assum.asp

Faith Quote: "Doubt sees the obstacles. Faith sees the way. Doubt sees the darkest night. Faith sees the day. Doubt dreads to take a step. Faith soars on high. Doubt questions, 'Who believes?' Faith answers, 'I'." author unknown

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 9:28-29 (do you believe?)

Welcome God every morning before your work by taking ~5 min to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which has snippets from Living Faith (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I can do this?" "Yes, Lord," they said to Him. Then He touched their eyes and said, "Let it be done for you according to your faith." Matthew 9:28-29

Living Faith snippets: "Jesus' words are reminiscent of Mary's fiat: "May it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). Whatever knowledge His divinity might have given Him, Jesus surely learned to recognize the power of faith in God at home. So Jesus asked the poor and injured, "Do you believe...?" He simply invited them to share in His hope, a hope He had seen and lived out from His earliest days. Jesus, your family had faith in you. May my hope be in you and your will be in me." by Julia Schloss

Pat nuggets:

* Christ is the hope we believe in!

* Kay Castle shared this short video filled with God nuggets: http://www.theinterviewwithgod.com/.

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "The Sheep and the Goats‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "Dearest Ones...Of all the parables, that of the "sheep and the goats" is probably the most startling (Matthew 25:31-46). At the end of the world, Jesus says people will be either like sheep or goats, those who took care of their neighbor and those who did not. Jesus said, "What you did to the least of these, you did to me." Our Lord compares the sheep to loving and giving people, who follow Jesus and do whatever He tells them to do. Love is the answer. It is as simple as that. No love for others, no reward in heaven. May you find joy in reaching out to others."

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Joe Castle (medical concerns), Matt Kayser (family of Jesse Alne), Rob Ouellette (Jeff, Arleen, Ramona, Pat), Mike Castle (eye infection), John Peak (parent's health & his deployment)
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message (through Christ) to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Faith Quote: "One time I read that people need "islands of stability" - things that do not change in their lives. God is our island of stability even in uncertain times." Pastor Don Bird

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.

Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!