Isaiah 56:1 (The Checklist of our hearts)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB). Guest Authors schedule. LIFE Minute radio.

"Thus says the LORD: Observe what is right, do what is just; for my salvation is about to come, my justice, about to be revealed." ~ Isaiah 56:1 (full readings)

Rosemary's Reflections: As I wrap up my first semester of grad school, I've been counting down the days until I get to come home for the holidays and spend quality time with loved ones. Before I can do that, there's a to-do list I must go through: make flight plans, pack my suitcases, clean my fridge, the list goes on and on. Though tedious, I know these tasks must be done in order for me to truly enjoy my time with family and friends. This is similar to what the season of Advent does for us--we must prepare our hearts for the birth of our Savior. We must clean out the inn of our hearts to make room for Him. One way to do that is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which helps clean us of the stains sin leaves. If we also "observe what is right" and "do what is just," we can be ready to accept God's salvation for us in the form of a small child born in a stable.

Faith Challenge: As we rush around to decorate our homes, bake cookies, and finish (or start) Christmas shopping, set aside some time to pray and reflect on the real reason of Christmas. There's a reason why Christ is in the word Christmas.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Christmas

Counter-Culture News: LSN, LifeNews, Priests for Life, Vatican, Project Rachel.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. LIFE Runners Creed. Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: Blessed Honoratus Kozminski

Faith Quote: "It is very helpful to confess with a certain regularity. It is true our sins are always the same; but we clean our homes, our rooms, at least once a week even if the dirt is always the same, in order to live in cleanliness, in order to start again. Otherwise, the dirt might not be seen, but it builds up." ~ Pope Benedict XVI

Through Christ Our Lord,
Rosemary

2 Tim 4:7

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (22% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa.
* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Isaiah 2:3 (Mountain of God)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB).Guest Authors schedule. LIFE Minute radio.

"Come, let us climb the Lord's mountain, to the house of the God of Jacob, that He may instruct us in His ways, and we may walk in His paths." ~ Isaiah 2:3 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: While teaching at the Air Force Academy, the times that I received the most peace and clarity in my life was during long weekend runs in the mountains with my best friend Pat. We would talk for hours discussing our spiritual life while jogging through the beautiful woods. While running we would notice many paths winding every-which-way through the trees in the valley. There were even times that we got lost, but we knew that we just had to focus on the higher ground and the mountain would show us the way. At the top of the mountain was when we received the most clarity. We could see where we had been; all of the treacherous terrain we had traveled. This long, difficult journey was necessary in order to stand upon the top of this mountain, the Mountain of God. Lord, I confess from time to time I lose my way, but you are always there to bring me back again. Amen.
* Lyrics from Third Day's "Mountain of God" - the theme of the 2013 National LIFE Runners half/full marathon in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Faith Challenge: Do not be discouraged by the difficult journey through the valleys, because this is a necessary path to the Mountain of God. Take peace in knowing that God is with you all the way.

Counter-Culture News: LSN, LifeNews, Priests for Life,Vatican, Project Rachel.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. LIFE Runners Creed and Patron Saint. Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: St. James of the Marches

Faith Quote: "After all that I've been through, now I realize the truth, that I must go through the valley to stand upon the mountain of God." ~ Third Day

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (22% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa.

* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Luke 21:29 (Preparation)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB). Guest Authors schedule. LIFE Minute radio.

"Consider the fig tree...." ~ Luke 21:29 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: The fig tree is the third tree mentioned in the bible; the first being the Tree of Life and the second being the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Adam and Eve use fig leaves to fashion garments for themselves to cover the shame and nakedness they feel from their sin. Often we turn from sin only to hang on to the shame. We carry this shame like fig leaves. Advent (which means waiting) begins 27 November and is a special time of preparation for the newborn baby Jesus. Use this time wisely to lay your fig leaves (sin and shame) before the Lord and prepare a place (manger) for him in your life. As Catholics we have the beautiful gift of the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (see John 20:22-23) where we are able to confess our sins and receive absolution (pardon and peace) from both Jesus Christ and the Church. The priest stands in the person of Christ (persona Christi) and as the representative of the Church (see 2 Cor. 2:10). In such a way we prepare the home of our hearts to receive Jesus more deeply. Celebrate the beautiful gift of Confession soon and often...prepare to be blessed!

Faith Challenge: To shed Light on this Black Friday, the Twin Cities and Sioux Falls LIFE Runners Chapters are doing a morning fellowship run/walk followed by a Rosary prayer at their local abortion mills. How can you bring Light to Black Friday?

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Advent. "As we begin preparing for Christmas, what could be a better than to prepare our hearts and minds to be filled with the love of Jesus."

Counter-Culture News: LSN, LifeNews, Priests for Life, AFA, Vatican, Project Rachel.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Spiritual Adoption, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). Add Prayers on our website. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, LIFE Runners, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now. >

Saint of the Day: St. Catherine of Alexandria (d. 310).

Faith Quote: "In failing to confess, Lord, I would only hide You from myself, not myself from You." ~ St. Augustine

Through Christ Our Lord,
Steve
Rom 12:2 .

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (22% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa.
* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Luke 2:39-40 (Beauty of Waiting) by Kristi

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (website, Facebook).

"And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom, and the favor of God was upon him." Luke 2:39-40 (full readings)

Kristi's Reflection: The theme for me this Advent and continuing into the Christmas season is the beauty of waiting. Within the witness of the Holy family, we have an incredible example of how to wait upon the Lord. Mary waited for the Lord to make His plan known to Joseph, Joseph and Mary both waited upon the arrival of Jesus without knowing the time and place, Joseph waited upon the Lord to show him when to return from their flee to Egypt... waiting... and then they go home with the King of Kings to Nazareth, and waited as He "grew and became strong." We cannot avoid waiting in our life. Even after the Savior came to be with us, He still chose to give us a lesson in waiting as He lived a simple life in Nazareth for 30 years. It is Christmas - Jesus is here with us, yet many of the longings in our heart remain. May we draw near to Jesus and learn from the Holy family how to wait with Jesus. It makes a big difference when we realize the one we are waiting with is the One that we most deeply long for! Enjoy this song from Mercy Me: Joseph's Lullaby.

Faith Challenge: Consider the experience of Joseph and Mary during those first few years of Jesus' life. They were with the Savior of the world, yet His salvific action would not occur for a few years. Consider what Joseph and Mary can teach us about waiting with Jesus for the deepest longings of our hearts.

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life, Live Action

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). View, add, update Prayers on our website. Let’s pray now.

Faith Quote: "The infinite distance between God and man is overcome. God has not only bent down, as we read in the Psalms; he has truly "come down", he has come into the world, he has become one of us, in order to draw all of us to himself. This child is truly Emmanuel – God-with-us." Pope Benedict XVI, Christmas Eve Homily 2010

Through Christ our Lord,

Kristi
1 John 4:19

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23%pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa
* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Comments? To subscribe/unsubscribe to the emails, go to LIFE Group Devotions or LIFE Runners Updates.

Luke 1:59-60 (Prepare the Way of the Lord)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (website, Facebook).

"When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, 'No. He will be called John.'" Luke 1:59-60 (full readings)

Bobby’s Reflections: In today’s reading, just two days away from the celebration of Christmas, we hear the Word or God proclaiming the birth of John the Baptist. The prophet Malachi tells us of John’s purpose to be a messenger to prepare the way of the Lord. This good news should fill our hearts with joy in anticipation of the arrival of the infant child. What struck me most though was the subtlety of Luke’s reference to the eighth day. While the importance of presenting John for circumcision would have been of normal practice to the Jewish people according to the law, this reference to the eighth day has an even greater significance to us as Christians. The Catechism of the Catholic Church in paragraph 349 refers to the “eighth day” as the day of the new creation. With the birth of Christ the “eighth day” dawns the new creation which culminates in the greater work of redemption (cf. CCC 349). It is on this day that Christ’s reign begins in the lowliest of places, a manger.

Faith Challenge: Let’s us look model to the humility of God who comes to us in the form of a child. While deserving of all glory and praise, He chose to become like us in all things but sin. What areas in our lives is the Lord challenging us to grow in greater humility?

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life, Live Action

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). View, add, update Prayers on our website. Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: St. John of Kanty

Faith Quote: “The heavenly babe suffers and cries in the crib so that for us suffering would be sweet, meritorious and accepted. He deprives himself of everything, in order that we may learn from him the renunciation of worldly goods and comforts” - St. Padre Pio

Through Christ Our Lord,
Bobby Aborn
John 16:33

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!

* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa

* Evangelize:Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Comments? To subscribe/unsubscribe to the emails, go to LIFE Group Devotions or LIFE Runners Updates.

Luke 1:66 (wise people still seek and find Him!)

Let's welcome God by reflecting on this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be?" For surely the hand of the Lord was with him [John the Baptist]. Luke 1:66 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Like John the Baptist, we can prepare the way for the Lord. In these days before Christmas, as we prepare food and gifts, as we send cards and letters, as we travel or open our doors in welcome, we pour out love into our struggling world. The hand of the Lord is with us." by Patricia Livingston

Pat's nuggets: Wise men and women still seek...and find Him! Like Mother Mary, may we always choose life and Jesus...through Him, with Him, in Him. May the miracle of Christ-mas fuel our hopes for 2010...

* A question from Monday's devotion nuggets: "I was wondering if you could clarify for us Protestants in the group what the Sacrament of Reconciliation is?" The Sacrament of Reconciliation is practiced by at least one Protestant denomination (Missouri Synod Lutheran)...and is rooted in John 20:21-23. Like the apostles, the priest/pastor facilitates real repentance and the receipt of God's forgiveness/grace. My cadet sponsor, who remarried after her pastor husband passed away, said this Sacrament is a great part of the Catholic faith because "it gets the junk out." Catholics also believe that forgiveness/grace are attained outside this Sacrament, but the Sacrament is a special tool/gift that helps facilitate real repentance with a genuine apology to God, valuable counsel to prevent recurrence, constructive penance for healing, and God's gift of grace for strength. If you are really interested in this Sacramental gift/process, you could ask a local priest to take you through it. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is like a spiritual Turkish bath (thorough cleansing)...great preparation for Christmas! Other questions or comments? More info here.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion to others or by using the "invite people to join" link on the Facebook Group. Steve, Rich, or Pat will gladly add others to the email list.
* NEW: As McDonalds is easily found, buy a few $10 McDonalds gift cards to have ready when you encounter homeless people. This is safer than cash. With a smile, wish them "Merry Christ-mas!"

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies). Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!
* NEW: Most of our ProLife news comes from LifeSiteNews...consider donating to their much needed fundraiser (even just $5).

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah), Shantelle Castle (special intention), Health care reform bill

Faith quotes: "Christ is the answer to our deepest expectations." John Paul II

Merry Christ-mas!

Pat
Phil 4:13

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, 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 live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a 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 (Matt 28:19).

Luke 1:41 (devotion #500...lotion for the soul!)

Let's welcome God by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb. Luke 1:41 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Advent gently nudges us awake with the message that God has come to us as one of us, living our sorrows and embracing our uncertainties. Christ-mas celebrates the sacred human moments of birth, of hospitality, of excitement over a future that has unexpectedly and miraculously changed course for Mary, for Elizabeth...for all of us!"

Pat's nuggets: Regarding Steve's faith challenge last week, I saw the base priest in the hospital yesterday and asked him if he had a few minutes for a Christmas prep (Advent) Sacrament of Reconciliation. We went to my office...and I got tanked up on God's amazing grace! I've been meaning to do this for a few weeks...God said, "here you go!" The Sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation provide lotion (grace) for the soul, making our relationships less scratchy (more loving)!

Faith Challenges: Today is LIFE Group devotion #500...let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion to others or by using the "invite people to join" link on the Facebook Group. Steve, Rich, or Pat will gladly add others to the email list.

* NEW: With a smile, wish a stranger "Merry Christ-mas!"

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies). Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!

* NEW: Most of our ProLife news comes from LifeSiteNews...consider donating to their much needed fundraiser (even just $5).

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah)

* NEW: Shantelle Castle (special intention), FOCUS: Health care reform bill

Feast Day: St. Peter Canisius

Faith quotes: shared by Lynn Bishara, authors unknown

* "God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do." [We respond to this awesome gift by gladly loving (serving) God and neighbor.]

* "Always choose life!"

Merry Christ-mas!
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, 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 live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a 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 (Matt 28:19).

Matthew 21:31 (LISTEN UP!)

Let's welcome God by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, Facebook), based on Living Faith. 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, "Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. Matthew 21:31 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Not the kind of news we like to hear, is it? We may not be canonizable saints-in-the-making, but we think of ourselves as basically decent people unlike, you know, "those people." The problem with this perspective is that for Jesus there is no "us and them." We're all in this together, as far as he's concerned." by Mitch Finley

Steve's Thoughts: I once heard a bible scholar say, "Whenever you see Jesus start something with, "Amen, I say to you..." you better LISTEN UP!" That has stuck with me over the years and I have found myself paying extra attention when I see that in scripture. I know Jesus is really driving a point home that needs to be considered within my own heart. Today's reading reminds me that I have bias, judgement, and prejudice in my heart. Only God knows and judges hearts. I can say that in my life some of the most powerful witnesses for God have come from people who came from extreme backgrounds prior to encountering the Risen Lord and repenting. Jesus is calling all of us to repentance this Advent season, so we will have room in the manger, our hearts, for Jesus. Dear Jesus, please clean out the garbage in the manger of my heart so that there is room for you this Christmas season.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share our LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion to others or by using the "invite people to join" link on the Facebook Group. Steve, Rich, or Pat will gladly add others to the email list.
* NEW: Advent is a time for waiting and preparation...take some time this Advent season to receive the grace of the Sacrament of Confession.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies). Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah), Health care reform bill, Scott Casmer (Helene Couchon, accident recovery)
* NEW: Joe Hourigan (Anne Hourigan's intense pregnancy nausea)

Feast Day: Blessed Honoratus Kosminski

Faith Quote: "The Advent mystery is the beginning of the end of all in us that is not yet Christ." by Thomas Merton

Through Christ our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:12

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, 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 live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a 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 (Matt 28:19).

Luke 5:22 (Advent heart-check)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

What are you thinking in your hearts? Luke 5:22 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "What is going on deep inside you [heart-check]? One of the most helpful ways to grow in being a Christlike person is to be aware of [this], especially the critical, unfair judgments we form about others. Advent is a season of hospitality...what better time to lay aside judgments and to welcome Christ in one another." Sr. Joyce Rupp

Pat's nuggets: While in formation, geese increase their flying range by 70%. By working to defend the defenseless unborn and heal those injured by abortion, the LIFE Group grows closer to Christ...sharing prayers, insights, challenges, accountability, and encouragement. I get many offline comments, some of which I share in the devotions. To help increase our group spiritual flying range, please consider adding your comments to the devotions posted on our Facebook Group page.

Faith Challenges: Christy (Feldhaus) Hubka, welcome! Let's generously share our LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion to others or by using the "invite people to join" link on the Facebook Group. Steve, Rich, or Pat will gladly add others to the email list.
* NEW: Yesterday, I found the Christians In Action (CIA) group essentials that we developed in 1993...Self denial, Consistent Christian lifestyle, Accept God's Plan, Get to know Christ. Let's heart-check these essentials in preparation for Christmas, inspiring us to take time for each other and give to those in need.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies). Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!

* NEW: Tell Senators to Support Nelson Amendment Immediately. "...prevents the Senate version of reform from mandating abortion coverage or providing federal funds for coverage that includes elective abortions." Vote likely this week.

* NEW: Michigan Abortion Facility Advertises Abortion as "Sacred Work". This abortuary does not deny that abortion kills a baby, rationalizing that it is ok because "Goodness is making choices that are good for yourself...[goodness] is not obedience." Let's be obedient to God, the source of all goodness!

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah), Joe (brother Mike), Aaron Ferrie (special intention), Health care reform bill, Brenda Alvine's father (pancreatitis), National Night of Prayer for Life (8 Dec)

* NEW: On this anniversary of Pearl Harbor, let us pray for all God-loving people who labor/sacrifice for peace in the world (neighbors, soldiers, politicians).

Feast Day: St. Ambrose, "At 33 - a successful lawyer, governor of Milan, friendship of the emperor, and a large estate."

Faith Quotes:

* "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men [people] to do nothing." Edmund Burke

* "The happiest lives are lived by those with the cleanest hands." author unknown

Through Christ our Lord,

Pat

Phil 4:13

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, 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 live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a 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 (Matt 28:19).

Psalm 23:4 (Christmas Comfort)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side... Psalm 23:4 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "As we enter Advent, what is stirred up in us? For some, December is an exciting time. Others await Christmastime with apprehension, for it brings not joyful but painful associations. The "dark valley" might be the absence of one who is very dear. It might be the anger and despair of a family situation. Or it might be that the light of Christ, shining among us, at times is rejected in favor of false dawns." by Marry Marrocco

Steve's Thoughts: I was on a run with a new friend in Christ and he was sharing with me about a Tuesday morning prayer group he attends that is comprised of business leaders in the community from various Christian backgrounds. He shared that he felt called to challenge each member of the group to do 10 things this Advent Season that would make them step out in faith i.e. visit a shut in, volunteer at a soup kitchen, invite someone to Church who they know isn't attending regularly, invite someone to pray with them vs. promising to pray for them, share their testimony of what God has done in their life with a stranger, etc. He reasoned if this group of 10 could do 100 "uncomfortable" things it would go a long ways toward bringing Christmas "comfort" to others. O Lord, give me courage to step outside my faith boundaries to be Christ to someone this Advent. Amen.

Faith Challenges:

* Let's share the LIFE Group with others. Simply forward a devotion to friends/family with an invite and the archive link: life-devotions.blogspot.com. Steve, Rich, or me will gladly add others to the email list and Facebook Group.

* NEW: Let's bring Christmas "Comfort" to others by doing 10 things this Advent season that make us "uncomfortable"...

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah), Joe (brother Mike), Aaron Ferrie (special intention), Health care reform bill, Angi/Pat Castle (Doug Hansens hip surgery Thurs)

* NEW: Brenda Alvine's father (pancreatitis)

Faith Quote: "Don't think that Love, to be true, has to be extraordinary. What is necessary is to continue to love." by Mother Teresa

Through Christ our Lord,
Steve

Romans 12:12

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, 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 live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a 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 (Matt 28:19).

Matthew 4:21-22 (Advent Love Dare...)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed Him. Matthew 4:21-22 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Movie stars, supermodels and talk show hosts...these are the people we often identify as charismatic. Before this contemporary meaning, charisma meant "a divinely conferred gift or power." Jesus must have possessed a lot of charisma in both senses of the word. The apostles and many others found him so attractive that they left their homes and livelihoods to be his companion. They also observed God's loving power in Jesus' words and actions. Who would not want to be around such a person?" by David Nantais

Pat's nuggets: Happy Advent...let's prepare ourselves for the birth of Christ!

* From OBOB: "We celebrate the new Church year and Advent. Advent is similar to pregnancy, in that we carry, protect, and nurture Christ's life within us. "Be on guard lest your spirits become bloated with indulgence and drunkenness and worldly cares" (Lk 21:34). Just as a mother's smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking drugs can have bad effects on her baby, so our sinful preoccupation with "worldly cares" can damage or even abort the new life of Advent. We should begin this [Church] year by going to Confession. By repenting, we remove things which stifle the growth of God's life within us. We should also simplify our lives, freeing up more time to pray, read God's word, evangelize, and share fellowship. We should be nourished and rested. TV, videos, and compulsive activities could very well smother our new life in God. Advent, like pregnancy, is a wonderful time as long as we carefully protect and nourish the new life within us."

* Angi and me are preparing for the birth of Christ with "The Love Dare" book (from "Fireproof" movie). It has 40 dares with a few pages to set up each dare. We read it together at bed time, reflecting on the previous dare and setting up the next dare. The book is great pause/perspective for putting positive energy into marriage. We are enjoying the challenges, fruits, and laughs. Angi even double dog dared me last week! "When two people in a marriage are more concerned about getting the golden eggs (the benefits) than they are in preserving the relationship that makes them possible, they often become insensitive and inconsiderate, neglecting the little kindnesses and courtesies so important to a deep relationship. They begin to use control levers to manipulate each other, focus on their own needs, justify their own position, and look for evidence to show the wrongness of the other person. The love, the richness, the softness, and the spontaneity begin to deteriorate. The goose gets sicker day by day." author unknown

Faith Challenges:

* NEW: Welcome to Chaplain Mike Carey! Let's share the LIFE Group with others. Simply forward a devotion to friends/family with an invite and the archive link: life-devotions.blogspot.com. Steve, Rich, or me will gladly add others to the email list and Facebook Group.

* NEW: For Advent (and always), let's dare to love God and neighbor more than self...

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!

* NEW: Articles highlighted on the Facebook Group page (Manhattan Declaration, etc).

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah), Joe (brother Mike), Aaron Ferrie (special intention), Health care reform bill

* NEW: Angi/Pat Castle (Doug Hansens hip surgery Thurs)

Feast Day: St. Andrew (first evangelist)

Faith Quote: "Faith accompanied by good works is contagious and spreads light, for it makes God's love visible and communicates it. Strive to make this lifestyle your own." by John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, 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 live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a 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 (Matt 28:19).