Mark 2:4-5 (No Man Left Behind)

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

"Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him. After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.”" ~ Mark 2:4-5 (full readings)

Rosemary's Reflections: What amazing friends this man has! Not only were they willing to carry him to see our Lord, but they went as far as breaking through someone else's rooftop in order for him to do that. I'm no architect but I'm sure cutting a hole into a roof would be no easy task to say the least. The men could have left their paralyzed friend behind at home, but because of their efforts, not only was their friend's soul healed, but his body as well. They were willing to sacrifice their time and strength for the sake of the paralyzed man. I am always amazed by how much time, talent, and treasure is given by the LIFE Runners. Because of their efforts, families are choosing life and being brought closer to Jesus. Planned Parenthood on the other hand, has given up on helping women--convincing them the only option is abortion. So as a team, we go against the odds to save the lives of the unborn. With each new member, with every step in a race, we are slowly taking apart the barrier built by a culture of death.

Faith Challenge: Take a moment to pray for the families "paralyzed" with fear about their unborn child. Also pray for the LIFE Runner family. A runner needs to be strong physically. A Christian needs to be strong spiritually. A LIFE Runner needs to be both to go against the grain of society.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Mornings

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: St. Hilary.

Faith Quote: "Being a good teammate is when you try to sprint down a ball that everyone thinks is going out of bounds. But you go after it anyways and you get it." ~ Mia Hamm

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). Mt 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 14:12 (Preaching to the Choir)

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

"Then he said to the host who invited him, 'When you hold a lunch or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors, in case they may invite you back and you have repayment.'" ~ Luke 14:12 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: Even after two-thousand years, there are more than 4 billion people alive today who still do not know Jesus. This is because few Christians ever try to share their faith. For those Christians who do share their faith, they may be at the wrong place at the wrong time talking to the wrong people. Christians love sharing their faith with other Christians, but we may just be "preaching to the choir." Jesus tells us to focus our evangelistic efforts on the "beggars and the crippled, the lame and the blind" (Luke 14:13). We should intentionally put ourselves in situations where we can share our faith in Christ with the spiritually blind and morally crippled. This is where the Word of God will be most effective. An example of this is the LIFE Runners who go out into the streets with "REMEMBER The Unborn, Jer 1:5" on the back of their jerseys, sharing the Gospel of Life with thousands of other runners and spectators. Lord, help me to be in the right place at the right time so that I may be effective at sharing Your Good News to those in most need of Thy mercy. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Break out of your comfort zone and share your faith with those who do not believe.

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

Feast Day: Saint Quentin

Faith Quote: "One of the greatest diseases is to be nobody to anybody." ~ Mother Teresa

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.

John 16:20 (LIFE Runners!)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB).

"Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy." John 16:20 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: Jesus uses a beautiful metaphor of what authentic Christian joy looks like in the face of grief - a mother holding her newborn baby just moments after the pangs of childbirth. This joy, born of sacrifice and suffering, is denied mothers with the evil of abortion. As a Pro-Life community, we are facing a time of trial and grief as we labor and cry out to be a voice for the unborn, but we can make a difference! June 13th marks the beginning of the 18 week Kansas City Marathon (15 Oct) training for the national LIFE Runners team. Much like the mother who labors for the joy of her newborn baby, over 100 LIFE Runners from 17 states and Canada/England/Turkey/Kenya will labor for 18 weeks through heat, exhaustion, 20 mile training runs, speed workouts, and tempo runs...for the Unborn. We run to end abortion and the culture of death. Our goal is to raise $25,000 for the Sioux Falls Alpha Center Fleet for Little Feet bus that provides free ultrasounds in rural areas. We offer our training sacrifices and physical pains as a living prayer for abortionists, mother's and unborn babies in crisis, post-abortive families and aborted babies. Our grief over the millions lost will become a cry of joy for the lives saved through the mercy of our Father God. The LIFE Runners team will experience the joy of crossing the finish line...for Pro-Life!

Faith Challenge: Please join us as a LIFE Runner, sponsor, prayer partner, or race weekend volunteer (14-15 Oct). Details at http://www.run.liferunners.org/.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Lets Take Back Sundays

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

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. >

Feast Day: St. Charles Lwanga and Companions, martyrs (d. 1886) "One of 22 Ugandan martyrs, Charles Lwanga is the patron of youth and Catholic action in most of tropical Africa. He protected his fellow pages (aged 13 to 30) from the homosexual demands of the Bagandan ruler, Mwanga, and encouraged and instructed them in the Catholic faith during their imprisonment for refusing the ruler’s demands."

Faith Quote: "As a LIFE Runner, all of me is being involved." ~ Rosemary Bernth

Through Christ Our Lord,
Steve
Romans 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 (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.

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1 Cor 9:24 (Run to Win) by Dr. Allen Unruh

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

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." 1 Cor 9:24

Allen's Reflections: The apostle Paul compared life to a race. Are you determined to endure to the end – to cross the finish line of life – and to never quit? Matt 24:13. This commands us to take charge of our lives. By their fruits ye shall know them. And what are the fruits of the Spirit? Gal 5:22-23. "They are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control." Can one person make a difference? In 1768, a 45 year old Scottish preacher took charge of a tiny, poor, rural school for teenage boys. He found the boys to be unprepared and unruly, and the conditions of the school’s only building to be deplorable. Because there were so few students, the preacher had to do all of the teaching himself until he was able to convince some tutors to help him. Yet, in faithfully mentoring his few charges, this preacher started down a path that changed the world. The preacher’s name is John Witherspoon. The small, dilapidated school he took charge of is now Princeton University. And what happened to the 450 students Witherspoon trained during his 26 years [marathon] as college president forms one of the most astounding facts in American history: 114 ministers, 49 U.S. Representatives, 28 U.S. Senators, 26 state judges, 17 members of their state constitutional conventions, 14 delegates to the state conventions that ratified the Constitution, 12 members of the Continental Congress, 8 U.S. district judges, 5 U.S. Supreme Court Justices, 3 Attorneys Generals, 1 Secretary of State, 1 Vice President, and 1 President (James Madison). It’s better to light one candle than curse the darkness. A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. We are commanded to be salt and light (Matt 5:13-16), not sugar. Too many Christians need the faith of a mountain to move a mustard seed. When in reality, when you read what one man did who had the courage of his convictions, you realize what you believe really makes a difference. Everything you think, say and do makes a difference in the lives of the people you meet and mentor. Decide now to make your mark. As Helen Keller said, "Life is either a daring adventure or it’s nothing." You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Phil 4:13.

* Dr. Allen Unruh is married to Leslee, and they have five grown children. Allen and Leslee co-founded the awesome Sioux Falls Alpha Center 26 years ago (ProLife 'marathoners'), saving hundreds of babies (and families)!

Faith Challenge: Everything you think, say and do makes a difference in the lives of the people you meet and mentor. Decide now to make your mark...[for ProLife!].

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

* Irish and Italian Women Rejecting Abortion: Stats.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Carolyn McKissack (daughter Karen's health), Kathy Schwab (5 yr old Dalton cancer), Jamie Simpson (special intention), Rob Rysavy (Adam Rogers mission trip to Thailand), Angi Castle (for Nicole's cancer)

Feast Day: St. Leo the Great.

Faith Quote: "The bottom line: Only what's done for Christ will last." ~ Dr. Allen Unruh

Through Christ Our Lord,

Allen

Luke 11:52 ("key of knowledge") by Stephanie

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

Woe to you, scholars of the law! You have taken away the key of knowledge. Luke 11:52 (full readings)

Stephanie's Reflections: The Pharisees and scribes (lawyers) were the religious leaders who studied the law of Moses and the prophets, developing an elaborate code of conduct that applied to every facet of daily life. Those that came in contact with them were being poisoned with a false idea of God. They kept the Scriptures locked up, concealing from the people the most important spiritual principles of God's covenant. The power of the key was in their teaching function, by which they should have been bringing others to God. More than anything, God wanted from them a trusting, contrite and open heart. We, too, have to learn to live more out of love than by the law, not condemning others and in the process condemning ourselves. Over the last 26 years as a volunteer in ProLife work, I have occasionally been quick to judge people who have a different idea of what 'ProLife' means. My frustration, especially with the ProLife indifference of professed Christians, has taken me several times to nearly throwing in the towel and giving up. Still I persist...but only because of God's grace. Please pray with me: Lord Jesus, help me to live each day more out of love, than by the law. Help me to look seriously at my own life before considering what others should be doing or should not be doing. Help me to look beyond myself. Help me not to judge others without first striving to know where they are coming from. Help me to take people where they are as we fight this battle on behalf of your precious 'little ones'. Help me to remember that You see the big picture and hold all things in being. Guide me through the frustrations of my daily life to a deeper love for You. Give me courage, Jesus. Help me to persevere. Teach me patience and help me to be more forgiving. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me hear your Word and to do your Will, no matter how much it hurts. Amen.

* Stephanie Kemp is the oldest of twelve, Mother of three grown sons, and Grandmother of three. With over 26 years of ProLife work, Stephanie is a true ProLife 'marathoner'!

Faith Challenge: "We are all originals from the mind and heart of God...God sends each person into the world with a special message to deliver, with a special song to sing, with a special act of love to bestow. These have been entrusted only to me...to take a life is a rejection of the message, the song and the love entrusted to that person by God." Abortion: The Silent Holocaust by Father John Powell

* What message of God's love will we share today? What song will we sing?

Counter-Culture News: 40 Days for Life (ends 31 Oct), LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life, Live Action.
* College students in Colorado going barefoot for week of pro-life advocacy

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Alpha Center, Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Sarah Ragan (healing from the miscarriage of her baby), Sue Peters (special intention)

Feast Day: St. Callistus I

Faith Quote: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and without blemish before Him." Eph 1:3-4

Through Christ Our Lord,

Stephanie Kemp

Deut 30:19

Luke 9:1-2 (Healing Hands!)

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

Jesus gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and He sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Luke 9:1-2 (full readings)

Pat nuggets:

* God gave us authority to expel demons. Do you think demons no longer exist? When faced with Spiritual warfare, call on the name of Jesus to disarm the evil, which saves you from being pulled into the darkness (despair). For Spiritual warfare guidance, check out Lighthouse Ministry International (St. Paul, MN) and a book called Unbound by Neal Lozano. Jesus we trust in you, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

* Prayer and a healing hand are powerful tools for healing physical/Spiritual ailments. Thanks to the LIFE Group members who recently used these tools for JP Peters (today's image) and 1 yr old Sarah Castle. Sarah recovered from her serious seizure (caused by roseola), and JP was able to see his Dad finish a marathon (Running for JP). Just hours before Sarah's seizure, Steve pointed out in his devotion that "we all follow Christ with some ailment or infirmity in tow." The Word of God is both healing medicine and preventative medicine for ourselves/others in this broken world. Have you accepted the great Christian commission "to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick"? This song will move you: You Can Have Me.

* The 2011 LIFE Runners (FB) are on a faith journey to the Kansas City half/full Marathon (15 Oct). Our God-sized goal for 2011 is to build a miracle team with 100 LIFE Runners (wearing the "REMEMBER The Unborn" jersey) who raise $25,000 for the Alpha Center pregnancy bus (free ultrasounds). This year we had 17 LIFE Runners who raised $7,000. Please let me know if you or others would like to run with this life saving vision/mission. Vision: LIFE Runners will pray and run as a team until we cross the finish line to end abortion. Mission: LIFE Runners are members of the LIFE Group Devotions faith community who pray, run, and raise funds for ProLife!

Faith Challenge: Who is in need of the healing Word of God or the healing hands of the Body of Christ? Bring this to them. Share the LIFE Group Devotions with others. 40 Days for Life starts today!

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

* Midwest Catholic Bishops Exhort Flocks to Fight for Marriage.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Vicki Kerkvliet (Mom's radiation treatment), Karen Ryan-Philpott (2 wk old Baby William's heart issues), Pat Castle (Molly Barber in hospital)

* Carol Nesbitt (special intention)

Faith Quote: "True life is to progressively attain self-control. Root your hope and your faith in Christ." John Paul II

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In God We Trust,
Pat

Jer 1:5

1 Cor 13:2 (Alpha Center'd in Love!)

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group Devotion (archive, Facebook).

If I have all faith so as to move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 1 Cor 13:2 (full readings)

Pat nuggets:

* Today's verse reminds us to do everything out of love for God and neighbor. Jesus, Others, You (JOY)!

* Steve's Friday devotion was in God's perfect timing. Yes, the "run so as to win" verse (1 Cor 9:24) came from Friday's daily Mass readings (as usual)...just in time for the LIFE Runners weekend. Coincidence?, I think not! On top of that, Leslee Unruh (Alpha Center founder) read the devotion to 1,200 pregnancy center leaders at Care Net's national meeting in Dallas that Friday. Leslee's daughter (Kia Rector) is a LIFE Runner who placed 3rd overall for women and donated her $400 winnings to the Alpha Center. Thanks to our sponsors (>100), the LIFE Runners raised over $6,000 for the Alpha Center crisis pregnancy bus (provides free ultrasounds)...interesting to note that "MARATHON COACH" is written on the side of the bus. Over 80% of Mothers who see their Unborn Child's ultrasound...don't abort!

* Today's picture was taken at the Sioux Falls Alpha Center "Memorial for the Unborn" (sacred ground). I imagine many reconciled parents have departed the Alpha Center singing this song: Born Again. Thank you Leslee, Kimberly and all Alpha Center staff for so evidently loving God and neighbor in your mission to save babies (and parents)! The LIFE Runners will courageously raise funds/awareness for the Alpha Center again, during the 18 weeks of training for the 2011 Kansas City Half/Full Marathon (Oct 15). Want to join the 2011 LIFE Runners team?

Faith Challenge: Volunteer to help at your local crisis pregnancy center during the 40 Days for Life (starts Sep 22)...out of love for God and neighbor!

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

* Running for JP: JP truly inspired the 2010 LIFE Runners training/fundraising. The team was blessed by the faith/endurance of JP, his parents Jason/Deanna and his grandparents Sue/Bill...thank you!

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer, Pastor Pat Coy heart recovery, Uncle Javier's health)

* Lynn Bishara (Aunt Marilyn passed away), Carolyn McKissack (for Karen, Bailee and Anna Grace), Vicki Kerkvliet (Mom started radiation treatment for lung cancer), Karen Ryan-Philpott (2 wk old Baby William, heart issues)

Feast Day: Our Lady of Sorrows. Mary stood faithfully at the foot of the cross as her innocent son Jesus suffered and died for our salvation. Blessings for all those who do this for the innocent Unborn dying at local abortion mills.

Faith Quote: "We don't change the message, the message changes us!"

Through Christ our Lord,

Pat

Jer 1:5

1 Corinthians 9:24 (Running the Race)

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group Devotion (archive, Facebook).

"Run so as to win." 1 Cor 9:24 (full readings)

Steve's Thoughts: My thoughts today are consumed with two thoughts. First, my wife Tina will be celebrating her birthday today and I can't imagine life without her. I love you, Tina and I am forever grateful for you. As a fifteen year old kid, I met the two loves of my life on the same weekend - Jesus and my wife - not a bad weekend! The second thought turns to our Life Runners (Pat pictured above) who will be running this coming Sunday, "so as to win," a greater race - the end to abortion. To run a marathon is no small feat and to take on that sacrifice for the unborn is commendable. As I contemplate our verse several things come to mind from my own experience of training and running a marathon.
* Commitment - To train for 18 weeks in itself is a commitment, but to think that you have to train to even be able to start training for a marathon is an eye opener! It really is a year round journey much like our faith.
* Determination - Carving out the time for midweek long runs (sometimes in excess of 10 miles) and THE long run on the weekends (12 - 20 miles) takes loads of determination. The same is true for our training in the faith to find time for prayer and study to grow our minds and hearts towards our Lords.
* Perseverance - You aren't a distance runner until you've experienced an injury. The first battle is getting to the start line of the race. Most runners walk up to that line with some sort of injury from the rigors of their training. Like our own humanity we are all wounded and will not finish this race of life unscathed.
* Long-suffering - "Hitting the wall" is an experience like no other. Most runners hit this "wall" between miles 20 - 23. This is where all the bodies glycogen stores have become completely depleted. Every step is an act of the will. They say the first 10 miles is your training, the next 10 miles is your mind, and the final 6.2 miles is your heart. Much like the race of life, we will all run out of gas at some point and need an "aid station" (i.e. retreat, sacraments, prayer) to see us through to the end. Distance runners quickly learn how to pace themselves and utilize the aid stations along the way.

This is where the rubber hits the road and our scripture comes alive. If we don't "pace" ourselves in the race of life and "run so as to win," then we will "hit the wall" at some point. What are your "aid stations"? Is it making a yearly retreat? Is it regularly attending Mass or a church service to be fed by the word and the Eucharist? Is it daily prayer time with our Lord? Is it fellowship with other believers who encourage us along the way, much like the many spectators along the road of the marathon?

Faith Challenge: Today write down your "aid stations" and put them in a visible place in your home or office as a daily reminder of those things that will keep you going in the marathon of life.
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Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Happiness "Make a habit of thanking God always, even for the bad things because God can bring good out of bad."

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

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Pope Benedict ("That by opening our hearts to love we may put an end to wars."), Pat Castle (LIFE Runners mission on 12 Sep, Grandpa's 90th bday party on 11 Sep)
* NEW: Steve Castle (Thanksgiving for my wife, Tina, on her bday), Rich Reich (Pastor Pat Coy heart recovery, Uncle Javier's health)

Feast Day: St. Thomas of Villanova "The absent-minded professor is a stock comic figure. This absent-minded professor earned even more derisive laughs with his determined shabbiness and his willingness to let the poor who flocked to his door take advantage of him." (from http://www.americancatholic.org/)

Faith Quote: "God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing." - C.S. Lewis

Through Christ our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:2

Matt 1:23 (God is with us!)

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group Devotion (archive, Facebook).

Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means "God is with us." Matt 1:23 (full readings)

Pat nuggets:

* On this Feast Day of Mary's birth (below), today's Scripture celebrates Mary's fiat ("yes, God"), which brought Christ into our lives. God calls everyone to help build His Kingdom...like Mary, say "yes, God!" each day and prepare for great blessings. Mary gave her body totally to God. Read about John Paul II's teaching on the Theology of the Body.

* The awesome "Mother of Life" picture is by Nellie Edwards (order at mo8@srt.com).

* Today's verse and this upbeat song (Starry Night) address the highlighted Counter-Culture News article (below).

* The LIFE Runners are racing the Sioux Falls Marathon on 12 Sep...for ProLife ministry. We are raising funds for the Alpha Center crisis pregnancy bus that delivers free ultrasounds. Prayers of thanksgiving for our Sponsors (listed at Marathons for ProLife blogsite).

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Faith Challenge: Plan to spend even just one hour in prayer at your local abortion mill during the 40 Days for Life (starts Sep 22).

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life.
* Stephen Hawking's Junk Science Atheism. Chad Livingston shared, "This is so opposed to the relationship that [God] lays out in Scripture. We are very significant and have purpose! In a post-modern culture, people are open to more than they can see. Secularism and materialism is shallow and short sighted."

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer).

* Pope Benedict ("That by opening our hearts to love we may put an end to wars.") Mother Theresa said that abortion is the biggest threat to world peace. If we kill our own children, will we love our enemies?

* Pat Castle (LIFE Runners mission on 12 Sep, Grandfather's 90th birthday party on 11 Sep)

Feast Day: Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Faith Quote: "Claiming that God's word [Scripture] allows for abortion is using God's name in vain." Fr. Frank Pavone (Priests for Life)

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

Luke 6:9 (LIFE)

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group Devotion (archive, Facebook).

Then Jesus said to them, "I ask you, is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?" Luke 6:9 (full readings)

Rich's thoughts: My Knights of Columbus council provided information to parishioners about the dignity of life after every Mass one week during 40 Days for Life. We used 22-week old preborn baby models to educate people about human development. These models were provided to us by A Woman's Answer (AWA) Medical Center, a crisis pregnancy center in Gainesville, Florida that provides women with choices that are healthy for them and their unborn child. On Monday, I visited the church office to pick up the baby models and return them to AWA. However, I was shocked to be told by a church staff member that she thought the unborn baby models were disgusting and that another staff member advised her to throw them in the dumpster. Months later, I still do not understand the actions of the church staff and the emotions that they must have been feeling to do such a thing. Lord, I pray that You will soften the hearts of those who wish to destroy life and/or provide women with the choice to do so. May we choose to save life rather than to destroy it. Amen.

Faith Challenge: How do I help others to understand the dignity of all human life from conception to natural death?

* LIFE Runners updates: Marathons for ProLife blogsite and FB page.

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

* Colorado Abortionists Launch Campaign against Personhood Ballot Initiative

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Pam McGushin (Terry Reszel cancer), Rich Reich Sr (Pat Coy heart attack), Karen Ryan Philpott (for newborn William Mucher with heart block)

Faith Quote: "Any country that accepts abortion, is not teaching its people to love, but to use any violence to get what it wants." - Mother Teresa

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

Matthew 14:23 (Prayer Power!)

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group Devotion (archive, Facebook).

[Jesus] went up on the mountain by himself to pray. Matthew 14:23 (full readings)

Pat nuggets:

* Regarding today's verse, take note that Jesus modeled the importance of finding some alone time for prayer. Why pray alone? This allows us to focus and listen to what is heavy on our hearts/minds...as we praise, ask, and thank God. With quiet time, we can better focus on receiving God's grace, forgiveness, and counsel...changing ourselves and situations (miracles). When? We should carve out a daily prayer routine...and take advantage of in between moments for prayer while driving/walking somewhere, waiting, etc. Praying together each day is also important (meals, end of the day, Mass, etc)...those who pray together, stay together. Prayer is fuel for our Spiritual engine...prayer power! If we are too busy to pray, we are too busy!

* Music inspiration: I Will Rise (at 3 min be ready), Jesus Saves (a good jam), Breathe (peaceful, calling out)

* Our LIFE Runners are training for the Sioux Falls Marathon (12 Sep)...raising miles, funds, and prayers...to protect the Unborn (& parents)! Updates at Marathons for ProLife FB page and Blogsite.

Faith Challenge: Let's fill some in between moments with prayer today (driving/walking somewhere, waiting, etc).

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life.
* 'In God We Trust' Again Upheld by Federal Appeals Court

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP, special intention), Rich Reich (Cousin Tom's chemotherapy), Liz Curry (Darleen Deans stroke recovery), Lynn Bishara (Aunt Marilyn with leukemia)

* Let's pray for our troops in harms way, the Fallen Heroes, and their families. We are also called by God to love even our enemies...let us pray for them.

Faith Quote: "Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." Hebrews 12:1

In God We Trust,
Pat

Phil 4:13

Jeremiah 14:20 ("Saved to Life")

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group Devotion (archive, Facebook).

We recognize, O LORD, our wickedness,the guilt of our fathers; that we have sinned against you. Jeremiah 14:20 (full readings)

Pat nuggets:

* Regarding today's verse, how about the wickedness of allowing legal access to murdering children (abortion) right in the middle of our neighborhoods (Planned Parenthood)? Lord have mercy.

* I found today's "Saved to Life" image in a Pictures of the Year International slide show with this caption. "Six-week Michele Olofsson weighed 2 pounds at birth...and she survived."

* In addition to birthdays, Chad Livingston suggested celebrating "conception day" to remember that life begins at conception!

* Kimberly Martinez (Alpha Center director) shared: "We are SOOOOO very thankful for all of you [LIFE Runners]! Just the other day we had a girl in who is 33 weeks pregnant with twins. She had an abortion scheduled, came to the Alpha Center through recommendation of a friend, received an ultrasound, and chose life! These babies are the ones you run for! When it gets hard to run or Sue, when it gets hard to raise funds, think of these little babies and their precious moms. Be encouraged knowing that your hard work makes a difference that leaves legacies far beyond that which you can imagine. Be blessed and know we are praying for you!" See Faith Challenge below.

* We saw the silly cartoon movie "Despicable Me." Angi pointed out that this is a story about a metanoia (change of heart)! Paige said it was better than Toy Story 3.

* Here is a great feel good song...enjoy! Hold Us Together.

Faith Challenge: Thirteen of our LIFE Runners will race the Sioux Falls Half/Full Marathon (12 Sep)...for ProLife ministry and to support the Sioux Falls Alpha Center crisis pregnancy bus. The bus reaches those who need free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and the Good News...saves lives! Last year, we raised $2100 for an ultrasound at a FL center. So far, we have only 6 sponsors ($387 total), which includes the donation from Angi/me. If we all donate a little, we will have a big impact. Please let me know if you donate because I would like to add your name (not $) to our sponsors list for thanksgiving prayers. To sponsor the LIFE Runners, go to Alpha Center, and click on "donate." When you get to PayPal "review your donation" screen, click on "comments" and write "LIFE Runners." Marathons for ProLife FB page and Blogsite. Thank you for considering!

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Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life.
* Poll: More than Half of Americans Favor Abortion Restrictions.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP, special intention).

* Pat Castle (Kimberly Martinez recovering from car accident), Liz Curry (Darleen Deans stroke recovery), Joe Levisky (thanksgiving for birth of granddaughter), Lynn Bishara (Aunt Marilyn with rare leukemia & kidney failure)

Faith Quote: "When it's all said and done, no one remembers how far we have run. The only thing that matters is how we have loved." Blink by Revive

Peace & JOY be with you!,
Pat
Phil 4:13

2 Tim 4:7-8 (finish the race!)

Welcome God today with this LIFE Group devotion (archive, Facebook). Prove yourselves doers of the Word, and not merely hearers. James 1:22

I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just Judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for His appearance. 2 Tim 4:7-8 (full readings)

Pat's nuggets:

* On this Feast Day of St. Paul, we read about Paul using the victor's crown as a symbol for entering heaven. In our longing for Christ's appearance, we draft in Him (lightening our yoke), learn His stride (His ways), and follow Him to the finish line (the Kingdom). Spiritually, we are all part of the LIFE Runners team, striving to draft in Christ, as we defend the defenseless Unborn.

* Today's verse reminds me of a wonderfully mystical song that my brother Steve wrote about longing to see the face of Christ. On Sunday, a friend asked who I believe will enter the Kingdom of God. According to St. Paul, we believe that at least "all those who have longed for His appearance."

* "Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Heb 12:1-2

* This is a great music video...enjoy! Resurrection Sunday Dance.

Faith Challenge: How will you "long for His appearance" today?

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

* Vancouver Archbishop on Pro-Life Activism: “The Time is Now”

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God. Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP).

Feast Day: St. Peter (first Pope) and St. Paul (converted from Judaism).

Faith Quote: "The Christian’s race is not a competitive event but an endurance run."

In Christ, Pat

Phil 4:13

Psalm 90:14 (shout for JOY!)

Let's welcome God today with this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive), anchored by Living Faith. Prove yourselves doers of the Word, and not merely hearers. James 1:22

Fill us at daybreak with your kindness, that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days. Psalm 90:14 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "The entire psalm is a tribute to the beautiful fragility of our days on earth, a hymn to God's faithful presence. In the midst of God's glance into the poverty and sorrows of our lives, we pray to be filled with God's love at daybreak." by Sr. Macrina Wiederkehr

Pat nuggets:

* God fills us at daybreak with the Trinity (one God, three persons)...the Sun is the Father, the rays are Jesus, and the warmth is the Holy Spirit. At daybreak today, I thank God for the gift of my Grandpa Castle (passed away 1 Jun 96) and my dear wife Angi (Happy Birthday!).

* Last year's Nobel laureate scientists challenged God to a competition on making the best human being. The scientists were given elements of choice. Just before the competition began, God scooped up the elements from the scientists and said..."get your own stuff." "Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers."

* Fr. Jonathan sent me a signed/framed picture of Meb (2009 New York Marathon winner). Here are a couple snippets. Meb wrote, "To Coach Pat, God uses people to affect others." Fr. Jonathan wrote, "May we keep running towards the One who made us!" Check out the Marathons for ProLife blog and FB page.

Faith Challenge: Let's generously encourage others by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Let's shout for J.O.Y. (Jesus, Others, You)!

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.
* NEW: Rockford Abortion Mill Hits New Low In Grotesque Window Dressing and Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Jail for Murdering Baby One Day after Birth.

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Prayer to end abortion, Doug Young (special intention)

* NEW: Pat Castle (thanksgiving for JP completing his miraculous Make a Wish trip)

Feast Day: St. Justin (martyr)

Faith Quote: In light of Memorial Day...."Peace starts with a smile." Let's make an effort to smile today...demonstrating our eternal JOY!

In Christ, Pat

Phil 4:13

John 14:27 (worry and fear)

Let's welcome God today with this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive, Facebook), based on Living Faith. Prove yourselves doers of the Word, and not merely hearers. James 1:22

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. John 14:27 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Worry and fear are a natural consequence of daily life. Jesus knows we have legitimate concerns about our families, our relationships, our jobs. We can call on Him during those times of stress and doubt. But I think what He is saying here goes deeper than everyday cares and woes. This is about our salvation. He tells us: Trust in me, believe in me. And if you do, you will not have a troubled heart; you will not be afraid." by Paul Pennick

Pat nuggets:

* Speaking of worry/fear, Fr. Jonathan and I ran the Pittsburgh marathon together (2 May). Fr. Jonathan shared: "Running this Marathon was like a retreat. At every mile, Pat and I would make the sign of the cross and say out loud whom that mile was being offered for (“Redemptive Running”). We also would spontaneously say a “Hail Mary” or “Our Father” from time to time begging for grace! Probably the most powerful part of the Marathon was around Mile 24…Pat simply said out loud, “We’ve offered our miles for many people along the way…this one is for Christ Himself…Imagine the suffering Christ felt as He carried the cross to Calvary…in a small way we can offer and unite our suffering to His.” As Pat spoke I understood these words in a new way because just continuing the race at that moment was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I felt joined so intimately to our Lord Jesus Christ as he carried the cross! In fact, since then as I’ve recounted this, I can’t help but get emotional…what a beautiful gift from the Lord. Pat and I finished the race hand in hand." See NEW link in the counter culture news section below.

* Stephanie Kemp shared: "Each one of us has hardwired into us, a natural desire to know God. We are created by Him, and for Him, and He never ceases to draw us closer to Himself. The Holy Spirit (meaning 'to breathe' in Latin) brings us close to Jesus and Jesus brings us to the Father. God breathed The Word and The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. Jesus became like us to show us the way back to the Father. He IS the Way to eternal life in the Perfect Love of the Trinity."

Faith Sharing: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.

* NEW: What faith practices help prevent troubled hearts and fear? Please consider sharing faith comments (or "like" button) on the Facebook page, to encourage many...thank you!

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.
* NEW: Nuns on run raise funds to help pay college debt. On 2 May, I met these wonderful Sisters before they ran the Pittsburgh Marathon...they have a real running "habit"! See today's picture with Sisters, Fr. Jonathan, Fr. Gregory.

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion.

Faith Quote: "The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship." Psalm 19:1 (shared by Aaron Ferrie)

Running His Race,
Pat
Phil 4:13