Matthew 25:40 (How Do I Love Thee?)

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

"And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.'" ~ Matthew 25:40 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Gospel, Jesus gave a preview of Judgement Day. We will be judged by our faith and love for Him as we have expressed it in loving service to "the least of the brethren." This statement could be understood as a burden that we must bare. Now we are responsible for taking care of the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned?! (Matthew 25:35-36) Don't be discouraged. Have you ever read the poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-1861), "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."? We should feel privileged that Jesus has given us so many ways to show our love for Him. Lord, thank you for giving me the opportunity to love you in so many ways. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Take advantage of the many ways to show your love for Jesus by serving those in need.

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 ourwebsite. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, LIFE Runners, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: St. Leander of Seville

Faith Quote: "I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." - Mother Teresa

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will and 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 (and family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (22% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 and 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 and re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Luke 9:48 (God's Children)

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

"Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest." ~ Luke 9:48 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Gospel, the disciples were arguing amongst themselves of who was the greatest. The rivalry the disciples displayed actually opposes Christian discipleship. In our competitive World, we can see each other as a threat; a threat on resources, attention, and power. To God this must all seem ridiculous, because we are all His children. He does not love one of us anymore than the other, and so likewise, we should also love each other. We are all members of the same body. "If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members share its joy" (1 Cor 12:26). As brothers and sisters, we owe each other encouragement (Phil 2:1) and love (Rm 13:8). When we welcome each other, we welcome Christ and the Father (Lk 9:48). When we welcome one part of Christ's body, we must welcome all. Lord, help me to remember that we are all Your children. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Today make others feel welcome as if they were your family, because we are all God's children.

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: Saints Cosmas and Damian.

Faith Quote: "When faith replaces doubt, when selfless service eliminates selfish striving, the power of God brings to pass His purposes." ~ Thomas Monson

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.

Matthew 20:26-27 (Service Before Self)

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

"Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave." ~ Matthew 20:26-27 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Gospel, James and John sought to be elevated above the other apostles by being seated at the right and left hand of Jesus when He came into His glory. Jesus replied that they did not know what they were asking. They did not see the cross in His future, but only saw an earthly throne. Jesus explained to the apostles that the way to aspire to greatness is to humbly descend into service. This can be a difficult lesson to swallow in our self-serve society. Following Jesus means service before self. Jesus led by example even to the point of giving His life for the deliverance of the human race. Lord, help me to be humble in service by placing the needs of others before my own. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Build a foundation of humility in service.

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.

Feast Day: Saint James.

Faith Quote: "Do you wish to be great? Then begin by being. Do you desire to construct a vast and lofty fabric? Think first about the foundations of humility. The higher your structure is to be, the deeper must be its foundation." ~ St. Augustine

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 (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.

Matthew 5:41 (Going the Extra Mile)

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

"Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles." Matthew 5:41 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: As a runner, the selected verse in today's Gospel rings home with me. I remember the strong nudgings of my heart after finishing a long race, to go back and jog with someone to the finish line. For a few moments you struggle with yourself, because you feel tired and don't want to run anymore. You have a sense of accomplishment that you have finished the race and now deserve your hard-earned rest. This sense of achievement however pales in comparison to the feeling you receive by going back and helping a fellow runner finish the race. Maybe God doesn't just want us to finish the race, but He wants us to bring others to the finish line as well. Lord, give me the strength to go the extra mile and help others finish the race. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Are you just focused on getting to the finish line, or are you willing to go back and help others finish with you?

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

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. Anthony of Padua

Faith Quote: "A sacrifice to be real must cost, must hurt, must empty ourselves." ~ 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 (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.

Mark 12:30 (GOD is LOVE)

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

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. Mark 12:30 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "HEART! SOUL! MIND! STRENGTH! We are to love God with our entire being--all of it! One of the mystics of the East suggests that in order to bring a whole heart home to God, we have to dismiss all our half-loves. I, who have so many half-loves, find that wonderful proposal both demanding and attractive. I want to be called to be all I can be, yet I struggle to be obedient to the invitation." by Sr. Macrina Wiederkehr, O.S.B.

Rich's comments: God, who is love, has placed a strong desire in our hearts for Him. Even those who do not believe in God are hungry for love. However, love is grossly misunderstood and often distorted by our self-serving society (e.g., pornography, masturbation, rape, adultery, etc.). The human heart hungers to experience true Christ-like "agape" that is self-giving love. As Christians, it is our responsibility to teach others to come to know the love that God has for them. For once they have experienced God's love, they will no longer be fooled by the counterfeit that society offers them. Lord, make me a conduit of Your love. Amen.
* Sr. Francelle's devotion: God's Love

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Faith Challenge: Let's generously encourage others by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.

* NEW: How do you share God's love with others? Consider sharing comments (or "like") on the Facebook page, for encouraging others...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: Michigan Abortionist Admits to Forcing Client into Abortion

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Prayer to end abortion, Doug Young (special intention), Pat Castle (thanksgiving for JP completing his miraculous Make a Wish trip).

* NEW: Rich Reich (Caroline Sandow died on Saturday); (cousin Tom diagnosed with cancer).

Feast Day: St. Charles Lwanga and Companions

Faith Quote: "Since love grows within you, so beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul." - St. Augustine

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

John 12:8 (God is the root of our service)

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

You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me. John 12:8 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "[Jesus] was not saying that there is no use in helping the poor and feeding the hungry, but that using money for seemingly 'useless' purposes is valid too. Expanding on Jesus' meaning, we may say that while the poor and the hungry deserve our assistance, it's good also to help build a beautiful new church, support a music program, erect a monument to a good person or help construct bicycle paths as a way to cultivate a healthy, natural environment. Jesus' point may be that there are values of a spiritual or personal nature that are just as real as those of a physical and material nature, and they all deserve our support." by Mitch Finley

Rich's comments: Today's Gospel reading from John could be confusing, since Christ has always stressed to His disciples the importance of helping the poor. I don't believe that Jesus meant His words to be an acknowlegment of the futility of helping the poor. Jesus possibly rebukes his disciples, because of their overzealousness in the matter of giving to the poor. While giving to the poor is good, forcing someone else to give what they do not desire to give is hardly justified. Also, even though there are poor people out there, that does not prevent one from giving material gifts to people who aren’t poor (especially if that person is God). There is an obligation to help the poor, but that is derived from—and in no way superior to—our obligations to God. The duty of tending to the poor is not supposed to be all consuming that we lose sight of God, or the reasons we are to help the poor. Our duty first and foremost is to love and serve our God, and this love then extends to our fellow man.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: What are the reasons that you give to the poor? Please consider sharing your devotion thoughts on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

Counter-Culture News: 40 Days for Life, LifeSiteNews, Vatican, 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 expose abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!
* NEW: Large Majority of French Women Agree that Abortion Has Detrimental Psychological Effects

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Pat Castle (Uncle Jim Castle with blood clots).

Faith Quote: "The needy will never be lacking in the land; that is why I command you to open your hand to your poor and needy kinsman in your country." (Deut 15:11)

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

* 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).

Luke 10:2 (call to service)

Let's welcome God this morning by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is 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

The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Luke 10:2 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "By identifying with all the consequences of our sins and taking the suffering of the whole humanity into himself, Christ descended into that state of consciousness that corresponds to hell... To participate in that kind of absence or alienation from God is the most powerful and mature identity with Jesus that one can come to in the Christian life." by Fr. Thomas Keating

Rich's comments: When I taught chemistry at the Air Force Academy, I would often find cadets going to class ill-prepared for the day's lesson expecting to be entertained by the instructor. What the cadets didn't realize was that they were responsible for their own learning. They were called to be laborers of their own education. Similarly, you can often find Christians attending church expecting the pastor to entertain them and provide for their needs. We need to realize though, that every baptized Christian has been called by Christ to work the harvest (to shepherd His people), and not just the pastors. There are many in our society dying of hunger for the Lord without anyone to feed them. Every Christian has a responsibility to bring Jesus Christ to these people.

Faith Challenges: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (>235 ProLife Christians).

* NEW: Don't be greedy with Christ, share Him with others.

Pro-Life News: The LIFE Runners (Dave, Jason, Doug, Rich, John, Jim, Steve, Pat, Tammy, Brenda/Aaron/Trevor) will be running the Twin-Cities Marathon (26.2 miles) on Respect Life Sunday (October 4th) to raise money for an ultrasound for A Woman's Answer Medical Center in Gainesville, FL. Please consider sponsoring our team by donating $/mile. Please make checks payable to "Knights of Columbus" and mail them to PO Box 14044, Gainesville, FL 32604.

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, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP in hospital), Lynn Bishara (for son Alex), Pat Castle (for cousin Michael), Stephanie Spader (for peace/healthy pregnancy), Kay Castle (Nancy Wheeler, Sheri Daniels, Sr. Joan Luke), Maureen Rogers (her pain).

Feast Day: St. Therese of Lisieux

Faith Quote: "Jesus, help me to simplify my life by learning what you want me to be - and becoming that person." by St. Therese of Lisieux

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

* 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, bitterness, being so critical, 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).

1 Thessalonians 5:5 (Do the Word)

Let's welcome God this morning by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is 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 of you are children of the light. 1 Thessalonians 5:5 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "The townsfolk of Capernaum are filled with awe and wonder as Jesus casts out the unclean demon. His words accomplish things! In the midst of all our problems, whatever they may be, this gives us hope: Jesus cares for each of us as if we were his very own self. God cannot but love us." - Sr. Kathryn James Hermes

OBOB snippets: "Knowing God's word demands doing His word. On Judgment Day, the Lord will not ask us what we know of His word, but how we've lived it. "For it is not those who hear the law who are just in the sight of God; it is those who keep it who will be declared just" (Rm 2:13). Jesus promised: "Anyone who hears My words and puts them into practice is like the wise man who built his house on rock" (Mt 7:24). "He is no forgetful listener, but one who carries out the law in practice. Blest will this man be in whatever he does" (Jas 1:25). Jesus also promised: "My mother and My brothers are those who hear the word of God and act upon it"
(Lk 8:21)." So to put it simply, do the word.

Faith Challenge: Let's invite others to join our LIFE Group (>215 Christians).

* NEW: It is useful to know God's words by heart, but it is powerful to put them into practice. "Do the word."

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 (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn 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, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Rich Reich (friend Carolyn battling cancer), Peters family (JP in hospital), Stephanie Spader (healthy pregnancy), Steve/Tina Castle (sell their home), Kay Castle (Sr. Joan Luke, breast cancer), persecuted Chinese and India believers.

* NEW: Adrian (sister Angelica battling cancer); Lisa (Susie Blanchet in hospital for gall bladder).

Faith Quote: "Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves." - James 1:22

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

* 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, bitterness, being so critical, 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 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.

Matthew 24:42 (live your faith today)

Let's welcome God this morning by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is 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

Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. Matthew 24:42 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "If I am deliberately conscious of how I am living and responding, I will be ready for when my life ends. Each day provides countless opportunities to grow in virtue. There are endless situations for welcoming Christ in others. There are continual reminders to live gratefully. There are untold possibilities for responding to God's grace. If I am attentive and alert to these matters, then I need not live with fear or concern about the timing of my death." by Sr. Joyce Rupp

Rich's comments: This weekend my church is having a Time and Talent Festival in which the parishioners will be presented with many opportunities to share their time and talent that God has given them. Many will volunteer for different ministries that will serve the church and surrounding community, and others will ignore the call to serve. It is easy to put things off to the future when we feel we will have more money to give or time to serve. It is easy to become complacent and comfortable with business as usual without adding any new challenges to our life that might deepen our faith. Turn off the cruise control and start living your faith today.

Faith Challenge: Let's invite others to join our LIFE Group (>215 Christians).
* NEW: Be receptive to the opportunities to live out your faith today.

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 (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn 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, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Rich Reich (friend Carolyn battling cancer), Peters family (JP in hospital), Stephanie Spader (healthy pregnancy), Steve/Tina Castle (sell their home).

Feast Day: St. Monica (the mother of St. Augustine).

Faith Quote: "Find out how much God has given you and from it take what you need; the remainder is needed by others. " - St. Augustine

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

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, bitterness, being so critical, 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 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.

1 Thessalonians 2:7 (love not work)

Let's welcome God this morning by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is 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

We were gentle among you, as a nursing mother cares for her children. 1 Thessalonians 2:7 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Can one be passionate, vibrantly alive, and still be spiritually gentle? Yes. Killian Mooney was one of the gentlest persons I ever met. His way with the people taught me much about gentleness. This virtue does not mean being passive, wimpy or submissive. Father Mooney's presence helped me see that a spirituality of gentleness comes out of strong respect for others. This virtue is fostered by an attitude of nonjudgment and a conviction that each person is worthy of dignity and acceptance." by Sr. Joyce Rupp

Rich's comments: I enjoy helping out at church and serving others, but sometimes I can get bogged down by the task at hand and my service becomes work and not love. We often say that we are doing "God's work", but we need to remember that we are called to love one another. Once our service lacks love, we are no longer serving God.

Faith Challenge: Let's invite others to join our LIFE Group (>215 Christians).

* NEW: Evaluate why you serve others. Is your heart in it, or are you doing it for recognition?

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 (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn 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, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Rich Reich (friend Carolyn battling cancer), Peters family (JP in hospital), Stephanie Spader (healthy pregnancy), Steve/Tina Castle (sell their home).

Feast Day: St. Louis of France and St. Joseph Calasanz

Faith Quote: "If you judge people, you have no time to love them." - Mother Teresa

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

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, bitterness, being so critical, 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 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.

Exodus 3:9 (our own burning bush...)

Let's welcome God every morning by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is 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

The cry of the Israelites has reached me. Exodus 3:9 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Why, O Lord, don't you hear the cry of this suffering child I know whose anguish is palpable? How many laments does it take before you turn to us? The Israelites, slaves in Egypt, cried for 200 years before you beckoned to Moses from the burning bush. Perhaps that bush had been burning all along, and Moses was the first to see and stop. At any rate, he paid a price for stopping to listen. You sent him to Pharaoh to free the people. We know the many trials Moses underwent in fulfilling this mission. Lord, you ask much of those you call. You ask everything. You call us to become blazing, inconsumable fires. You urge us to become prophets, liberators, healers. You teach us to feel others' suffering and to respond with mercy. Lord, in Christ you became one of us. Help us to become like you." by Mary Marrocco

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News.
* NEW: Let's open our eyes and ears to hear God calling us from our own burning bush...calling us to embrace His eternal gifts of love and strength (Jesus, Holy Spirit)...calling us to love and serve our neighbors at home and work.

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 (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn 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, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, addictions, Nana Suzie (prayer of thanksgiving for each "good day" that JP experiences), Stephanie Spader (for a family with unexpected pregnancy), Carla Neal (Mandy & Craig have a family emergency)
* NEW: Rob Rysavy (for a coworker's wife who is battling an illness), Iran airliner crash

Feast Day: St. Bonaventure

Faith Quote: "Prayer, study, devotion to the Master. Open those wells. Don't let the enemy fill in the wells where you drink deeply." Chad Livingston

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, bitterness, being so critical, 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 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 invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 9:37 (pray for vocations)

Let's welcome God every morning by reflecting on this short Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is 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

The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few. Matthew 9:37

Living Faith snippets: "[Jesus] tells us what to do: "Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest." Our first task, when promoting vocations, is to pray. It is God who calls. Jesus has a great compassion for us. His heart is moved to pity when he sees us suffering. He wants to send out an abundance of laborers to help those in need and to preach the Kingdom. Let us follow Jesus' charge and dedicate this day to pray for vocations." by Msgr. Stephen J. Rossetti

Rich's Comments: God has blessed all of us with different gifts and we are called to use these gifts to serve God's purposes. Pray for those who are just now identifying their gifts that they will use them to serve God.

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News.

* NEW: Let's pray for vocations today:

O Holy Spirit, Spirit of wisdom and divine love, impart Your knowledge, understanding, and counsel to youth that they may know the vocation wherein they can best serve God. Give them courage and strength to follow God's holy will. Guide their uncertain steps, strengthen their resolutions, shield their chastity, fashion their minds, conquer their hearts, and lead them to the vineyards where they will labor in God's holy service. Amen.

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 (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn 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, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, addictions, Carla Neal (Jonathan Barlow, Margaret Solms, Dan, Joe and Becky), Nana Suzie (prayer of thanksgiving for each "good day" that JP experiences).

Faith Quote: "Show me your hands. Do they have scars from giving? Show me your feet. Are they wounded in service? Show me your heart. Have you left a place for divine love?" by Archbishop Fulton Sheen

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

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, bitterness, being so critical, 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 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 invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!