Luke 21:2 (Don't Waste the Gift)

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

"[Jesus] noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins." ~ Luke 21:2 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Gospel, Jesus noticed a poor widow donating her last two coins in the treasury. The widow in the Gospel and today's feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary are very much related. Both women trusted in God and gave their all to Him. In this week of Thanksgiving, let's focus on the gifts that God has blessed us with and give thanks to the Lord by giving our all to Him. As a runner, I am inspired by Steve Prefontaine, who once held the American record for seven distance track events from the 2,000 meters to the 10,000 meters. His coach always criticized him for being a front runner and not drafting with the rest of the pack during a race. Prefontaine's response was "to give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." Don't sacrifice the gifts that God has blessed you with. Offer up everything that He has given you to do His will. Lord, thank you for the gifts that You have blessed me with. May I use them for Your purpose Lord. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Give thanks to the Lord by offering up the gifts that He has blessed you with...to do His will.

Counter-Culture News: Catholic News Agency, National Catholic Register, Our Sunday Visitor, Headline Bistro, Patheos, Pewsitter, New Advent, National Review.

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

Feast Day: Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Faith Quote: “What we are is God's gift to us. What we become is our gift to God.” - Eleanor Powell

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.

Joshua 24:13 (Your House)

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

"I gave you a land which you had not tilled and cities which you had not built, to dwell in; you have eaten of vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant." ~ Joshua 24:13 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: The other day I glanced above our stove in the kitchen to a picture that has been hanging in our home for years. It says, "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord." I was quickly reminded how easily I forget that all good things flow from God. My house, my job, even my family is not my own - I am but a steward for a short while. In today's reading, Joshua reminds God's people all that has been done for them. They were once prisoners in the land of Egypt, but God delivered them. A few short verses later Joshua challenges them to make a choice - either go back to the ways of their fathers or turn toward God. There is no duplicity, no division in God. He proclaims, "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord."

Faith Challenge: Is your house divided? Today, like Joshua, commit your house to the Lord.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: God Answers Prayers

Counter-Culture News: LSN, LifeNews, Priests for Life, AFA, Vatican, Project Rachel. &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. Jane Frances de Chantal (d. 1641)

Faith Quote: "Once we have humbled ourselves for the faults God allows us to become aware of in ourselves, we must forget them and go forward." ~ St. Jane Frances de Chantal

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 (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.

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

John 6:11 (Eucharist)

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

"Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining, and also as much of the fish as they wanted." John 6:11 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: The Gospel of John chapter six is one of my favorite passages of scripture and has importance for all followers of Christ. The miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes is the only miracle found in all four Gospels. Most importantly this chapter stands alone as prefiguring one of the ultimate ends of Jesus' ministry - the Eucharist. In the Eucharist, Jesus is present body, blood, soul and divinity. Eucharist literally means thanksgiving, and we see Jesus model this Sacramental reality for the first time in today's verse. He would later repeat this sign for the Apostles at the last supper, and once again as the Risen Christ with the disciples he meets on the road to Emmaus (in the breaking of the bread they come to know Jesus). With the crowd swelling to over 15,000 men, women and children, Jesus wastes no time preparing them to receive His most important teaching; the teaching on the Eucharist. Jesus goes up to the mountain much like Moses (Numbers 11:13), and He also multiplies the loaves and fishes like the prophet Elisha (2Kings 4:42-44) with the barley bread. He is the new Moses, the new Elisha. It is no wonder the crowd knowing well the stories of the great prophets exclaim, "This is truly the Prophet, the one who is to come into the world." But Jesus is much more than the second coming of Elijah; He is preparing all of us to receive the truth that He is the Son of God. Jesus is the source of the bread from heaven (manna in the desert) that will never leave us hungry again.

Faith Challenge: Do you hunger to touch Jesus; to receive Him? You can! Jesus is present body, blood, soul and divinity for each one of us in the Eucharist. Eat and never be hungry again.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: St. Margaret of Costello (May 4th)

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: Blessed Gerard of Lunel (d. 13th Century)

Faith Quote: "He is The Bread sown in the virgin, leavened in the Flesh, molded in His Passion, baked in the furnace of the Sepulchre, placed in the Churches, and set upon the Altars, which daily supplies Heavenly Food to the faithful." ~ St. Peter Chrysologus (400-450)

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.

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

Isaiah 65:18 (LIFE is Good)

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

"There shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create." Isaiah 65:18 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: God sees good in everything that He creates (Genesis 1:31), and likewise, He expects us to be happy and rejoice in His creations (Isaiah 65:18). However, in our society, there isn't always rejoicing and happiness in what God creates. This is particularly true when God's creations are viewed as an inconvenience to us. Unwanted plants in our garden are considered weeds; annoying insects are considered pests; and even an unplanned pregnancy could be viewed as a tragedy. God's creations are not flawed, nor are they mistakes. Everything God creates reflects His glory and love. Therefore, everything God creates is good, because God is good. Lord, may I always rejoice in You and Your creations. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Explore the goodness in all of God's creations, and be thankful for the gift of LIFE.

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

* Out-of-work electrician offered major job building a Planned Parenthood turns it down

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. Isidore of Seville

Faith Quote: "Life is an opportunity, benefit from it. Life is beauty, admire it. Life is bliss, taste it. Life is a dream, realize it. Life is a challenge, meet it. Life is a duty, complete it. Life is a game, play it. Life is a promise, fulfill it. Life is sorrow, overcome it. Life is a song, sing it. Life is a struggle, accept it. Life is a tragedy, confront it. Life is an adventure, dare it. Life is luck, make it. Life is too precious, do not destroy it. Life is life, fight for it." - Mother Theresa

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.

Sirach 47:8 (God's gift of life)

Let's welcome God today 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

With his every deed he offered thanks to God Most High, in words of praise. Sirach 47:8 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "When we receive a gift, we are to offer thanks. If some honor is bestowed upon us, it is fitting to thank those who have helped us in this achievement. We have all been given the gift of life, filled with love, joy and blessings too numerous to enumerate. For that magnanimous treasure we owe deep and heartfelt thanks to the Author of life." by Fr. James McKarns

Rich's comments: The greatest gift God gave to us was Himself, and the greatest gift we can give to God is ourselves. God gave us the gift of life so that we would have something precious to give back to Him. The life of every human being, born and unborn, is to be respected in an absolute way, because man is the only creature on earth that God has "wished for Himself". Lord, I thank You for the gift of life. May I never take it for granted. Amen.

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

* NEW: Start prayer today by giving thanks to God for all of your blessings, especially God's gift of life. Make your life a living offering to God.

* NEW: Read Sr. Francelle's devotion, "Get over it!", and learn how to deal with situations in life that we have no control over.

Counter-Culture News: 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 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, Peters family (JP), Haitian earthquake victims, Rich Reich (Carolyn's cancer battle), Bobby Aborn (health issues), Joe/Anne Hourigan (lost their 14 wk old unborn child), Carol Nesbitt (Nancy Wheeler - passed away).

* NEW: Carol Nesbitt (Sydney Jones passed away from a pulmonary embolism)

Faith Quote: "The world is very dangerous to live in ... not because of the people who do evil ... but because of the people who let it happen." - Albert Einstein

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).

Daniel 3:64-67 (The gateway to prayer)

Let's welcome God today 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

Every shower and dew, bless the Lord...All you winds, bless the Lord...Fire and heat, bless the Lord...Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. Daniel 3:64-67 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "These verses are part of a larger hymn summoning all creation to worship its creator. What an image! I often marvel at the might and mystery of nature. And yet all of nature, in its power, could kneel in awe before God who made it. How much more vastly mighty and mysterious is God!" by Karla Manternach

Steve's Thoughts: So often I find it difficult to pray. I am often distracted by frivolous minutiae or overwhelmed by the amount of "intentions" that are on my heart. I have a hard time just quieting my mind. This litany has often helped me focus my heart and mind on God and drown out those distractions. I have found that when I turn to God first in praise and thanksgiving the distractions melt away. I have often found that the real intentions of my heart rise to the surface. Have a blessed Thanksgiving! Lord, let me offer you the first fruits of my day in praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Gratitude

Faith Challenges: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (~250 of God's children)...welcome to Mickey Carlson!
* NEW: Seek God in prayer today, but instead of asking for something off the bat come before Him first with praise and thanksgiving.

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 (Matt 5:16) 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), Doug Young (special intention), Pat Castle (health care reform bill), Joe (daughter's pregnancy), Aaron Ferrie (special intention)

Feast Day: St. Catherine of Laboure and the Miraculous Medal

Faith Quotes: "One must see God in everyone." ~ St. Catherine of Laboure

Through Christ Our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:2

* 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).

Daniel 1:12-15 (deployment bag packed?)

Let's welcome God today 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

Give us vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then see how we look. After ten days they looked healthier and better fed than any of the young men who ate from the royal table. Daniel 1:12-13, 15 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Insecurity is really nothing new. We exist in a state of radical vulnerability...all of us, all the time. Live long enough and you will surely lose something you believe you cannot live without. And then you will go on living. How? Oddly enough, it helps to begin by saying thank you for whatever is left. Gratitude takes practice. It is a discipline, especially when we are hurting. It teaches us that we can thrive on vegetables, even when we are used to feasting like kings. Thank you, God, for everything I have left." Karla Manternach

Pat's nuggets: Today's Living Faith snippets focus on gratitude, coinciding nicely with Thanksgiving this week. I am grateful for our LIFE Group which encourages us to defend the unborn and compels us to have a living faith. Happy Thanksgiving!

* To help focus our LIFE Group impact, devotions will now be sent only on Monday (me), Wednesday (Steve), and Friday (Rich). Also, to reduce the # of emails, the LIFE Group email is now set to only allow Rich, Steve and me to send out LIFE Group wide info. Please continue to send us info to consider and consolidate in the devotions: faith sharing/quotes, prayer requests, newslinks, etc. We will still send out urgent messages. This faith sharing and collaboration keeps the Holy Spirit stirred up in our LIFE Group...thank you!

* I spent last week training in a chem warfare defense exercise. The chaplain was my roommate, so I had plenty of top cover! Our deployment bags had to be packed with required items for inspection. This was a great reminder to also keep my spiritual deployment bags packed with required items (love/service, prayer/praise, gratitude, forgiveness, etc)...for God's evangelical missions now and ultimately for God's judgement day. Angi helped me pack...analogous to the Body of Christ working together for God's glory. From OBOB, "The Lord tells us to "stand erect" and hold our heads high (Lk 21:28) when the world ends. The way to have this confidence is to live for the Lord right now. If we [are] totally committed to the Lord, totally forgiven of sin, and totally forgiving of others, we can have confidence that we will be right with God at the world's end. If the world were to end today, what would you do? Saint Francis of Assisi had the right answer: "I'd do what I'm doing now." Obeying the Lord is our only security for the future."

Faith Challenges: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (~250 of God's children)...welcome to Mickey Carlson!
* NEW: Let's take a moment to review our spiritual deployment bag checklist (love/service, prayer/praise, gratitude, forgiveness, etc). Are we packed and ready?

* NEW: Sr. Francelle's devotion: The Altar of my Heart‏.

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 (Matt 5:16) 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), Doug Young (special intention), Pat Castle (health care reform bill), Joe (daughter's pregnancy), Aaron Ferrie (special intention)

Faith Quotes: Pastor Don Bird shared this quote by Maltbie Davenport Babcock, "Christianity is not a voice in the wilderness, but a life in the world. It is not an idea in the air but feet on the ground going God's way."

Gratefully, 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 4:27 (God power!)

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

Again, there were many lepers in Israel during the time of Elisha the prophet; yet not one of them was cleansed but only Naaman the Syrian. Luke 4:27 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "This story is a reminder that the miracles of Jesus were not just grandiose displays of His special powers but acts of love flowing from the very compassion of God. That compassion reaches beyond the barriers we humans often construct between people of different races, genders, nationalities, denominations and religions. Sooner or later all of us are faced with the choice of appeasing our critics or being true to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit. Like Jesus may we never give into the temptation to put popularity or the fear of rejection over our call to help usher in the reign of God." by Terri Mifek

Pat nuggets: While running on the Santa Fe trail near Palmer Lake, I had a "powerful" God sighting. I saw three cross-shaped powerline poles grouped on a small hill, with the center cross higher. Angi had independently noticed these crosses as well. This reminded us of Christ on the cross with the two criminals at His sides. I imagined the powerlines from Christ through the reconciled criminal bringing the gift of the Holy Spirit to Light the "yes, God" homes in the Life grid. The powerlines through the "no, God" criminal only connected homes to the empty promises of the death grid....but with a flip of a switch (Free Will, Grace, Mercy), these people could connect to the power of the Holy Spirit in the Life grid. We have an awesome God that has given His only Son to reconnect with us...we just need to keep the "yes, God" Light switch turned on!

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

* NEW: While at a hotel recently, I said hello to a maid and asked her how she was doing. She said, "grateful"...which is even better than great. Let's try saying "grateful" when someone asks us how we are doing today.

Stations of the Cross (#7): Jesus falls the second time.

Culture of Life (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 share ProLife Truth (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16)!
* NOW (25 Feb-5 Apr): Support the 40 Days for Life campaign by praying by an abortion mill for one hour (Matt 26:40)...let's defend the voiceless unborn!

* NEW: On Saturday, some C. Springs LIFE Group Christians gathered for prayer in front of the abortion mill: Stephanie Kemp, Tom Albrecht with his three children, Robert/Meghan Cox with their three children, and Angi/Pat with our two girls. This was truly a "foot of the cross" experience.

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, jobs, Paul Cote (sister Christine)

Faith Quote: "When praying, it's better to have a heart without words than words without heart." ~ RBC (shared by Sharon Carlson)

Through Christ for ProLife,

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)!

Luke 5:12 (make us whole)

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

And when he saw Jesus, he fell prostrate, pleaded with Him, and said, "Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean." Luke 5:12

Living Faith snippets: "Clearly, not all people are healed. Some recover from sickness and others do not. Some survive disasters and others do not. None of us has full knowledge of how God is at work in the world. What we do have is the powerful image of Jesus, who came into this world to heal, to help and to cleanse, who reached out tirelessly to others, who served to the point of exhaustion and even embraced death for us. We have His promise that in Him all would be glorified. Lord Jesus, heal us and make us whole." by Karla Manternach

LIFE Group nuggets:

* Joel Cain and Angi Castle each mentioned seeing a ProLife commercial aired in C. Springs this week. In the commercial, Jane Roe (Roe vs Wade) said that she never had an abortion, has three daughters, and became ProLife "upon knowing God." To see this powerful 1 min commercial, click here. You can see other ProLife commercials and make donations at http://www.virtuemedia.org/.

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "Abide With Me‏‏‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. Some snippets: "Dearest Ones, One of the most comforting hymns I know,"Abide with Me," was written by Henry Lyte, 1847. I can only imagine the pain-filled body of this great man composing this hymn, as he lay dying of tuberculosis. As his world became darker, he asked our Lord to abide in him. Now he is with God, living in his light. Completely healed. "Abide with me, fast falls the evening tide, The darkness deepens, Lord with us abide, When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes, Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies, Heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee, In life, in death, O Lord abide with me." If you truly accept His presence in every part of your life, every minute of every day, then He will abide in you, and your life will never again be the same. James 4:8 "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." Apart from him, we have no strength, no power, no joy, no peace, no happiness. So many people grow discouraged when they have trials. They think God is punishing them for something they did - this is not true at all. Trials can be a blessing in disguise. The only way to maturity in your faith is through trials."

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (click here for images).
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Mike Castle (eye infection), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Pat's prayer list), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Dan Castle (for alcoholics), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Peace in the Middle East (Iraq, Gaza), Papa Joe Castle (bleeding in brain), Lynn Bishara (family of Nick Hoch who passed away, Aunt Mary battling cancer)

Faith Quote: Sharon Carlson shared this one. "When we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that's present…we experience heaven on earth." Sara Ban Breathnach

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

Matt 4:23 (the Kingdom is here!)

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

He went around all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness among the people. Matt 4:23

Living Faith snippets: "The kingdom is here, inside and all around you, alive and active, and how I desire that you could see it, too! How I wish that your eyes could see and your ears could hear! The kingdom of God is here! Jesus, keep me so closely united to you this day that my life may proclaim to others that the kingdom of God is, indeed, here!" by Sr. Charleen Hug

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "New Year 2009‏‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. Some snippets: "Dearest Ones, If there is anything we truly need in this New Year, it is to get closer to God and to grow in the love of our Savior. Prayer and good Christian self-talk go a long way to having that Happy New Year that we have been wishing each other. Christian self-talk is handling the stress that comes your way by reacting to it in a Christian manner. What we tell ourselves as Christians is largely shaped by how familiar we are with the Bible. After all, God's word tells us that it is a lamp for our feet and a light for our path. This new year, face your fears. Fears are removed by replacing them with faith. Say to yourself again and again: "I trust in you, O Lord; my life is in your hands." I have been praying that Jesus will tell me what he wants me to do this new year and this is what I came up with: "to never consciously hurt anyone; to do as much good as possible, as often as possible, and in as many places as possible." Above all, I want to have a thankful heart and not take people or things for granted. The beauty God gives in nature, such as, the awesome beauty of silently falling snow has a way of uniting me with God. Each one-of-a-kind snowflake reminds me that each of us is wonderfully and uniquely created by God, and the peaceful white blanket is the security of His tender love for us, and the peace He offers us each day. If only I notice and remain grateful, I can see God's beauty everywhere. I pray you will be brave enough to look at your trials - not through fear but through hope, holding tight to the hand of Our father. Our journey of faith never ends. It continues and grows with each passing year, as we search for the inner peace that only God can give."

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

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (click here for images).

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

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Mike Castle (eye infection), Carolyn McKissack (granddaughter Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Patrick's prayer list), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Dan Castle (for alcoholics to accept intervention), Jason Peters (health of son JP)
* Peace in the Middle East (Iraq, Gaza)

* Praise: Liz Curry (friend Julie is cancer free!)

Feast Day (St. John Neumann): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=70

Faith Quote: Doug Young shared this verse on his Christmas card, "Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of Life." John 8:12

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

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

Revelation 15:2-3 (Thanksgiving, Jesus' Christmas list)

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

On the sea of glass were standing those who had won the victory over the beast...and they sang the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb. Revelation 15:2-3

Living Faith snippets: "One commentator says that these people are the Christian martyrs who "did not succumb to the oppressive influences of the Antichrist." What are some of the oppressive influences of the Antichrist in our own age? One could be a philosophy that says, "Me first!" or, "Happiness is a 'buy' product. The more things you buy, the happier you'll be." Another oppressive influence says, "You're only one person. What can you do?" or it could be an attitude of selfishness, hopelessness, fear, a lack of forgiveness, pettiness, relativism, shame or apathy. Today try to name one oppressive influence that tends to hinder you from singing your song to God." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda

Pat nuggets:

* Jesus' Christmas (birthday) List: As we plan how we will share our gifts at Christmas, let's reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. St. Nicholas (the real Santa) gave to children and the poor because Jesus calls us to give His birthday presents to those in need. Let's not give into the oppressive influences listed above...we are called to be Christ to the world! If we (the Body of Christ) share God's gifts, the needy will also be a part of His birthday party. Who are those in need? Crisis pregnancy centers, Joe Castle's homeless shelter, others? Kay Castle suggested that we write to our injured soldiers: Recovering American Soldier, c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center, 6900 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington , D.C. 20307-5001.

* Thanksgiving: Chad Livingston shared this piece of our foundational American history. "Written in 1782, one of the first declarations concerning the day of Thanksgiving read: “The United States in Congress assembled, taking into their consideration the many instances of divine goodness to these States:[...] Do hereby recommend to the inhabitants of these States in general, the observation of Thursday the twenty-eight day of November next, as a day of solemn THANKSGIVING to GOD for all his mercies: and they do further recommend to all ranks, to testify to their gratitude to God for his goodness, by a cheerful obedience of his laws, and by promoting, each in his station, and by his influence, the practice of true and undefiled religion, which is the great foundation of public prosperity and national happiness.” from https://www.history.com/

Christian ID: How would unbelievers recognize a Christian in the world? By our love! Let's share things we can do to glorify God and love neighbor.

* When someone sneezes, say "God bless you." When asked for prayers, offer to pray with them on the spot. When asked about your weekend, tell about your faith activities. When someone takes the Lord's name in vain, ask them gently to please not say that (hopefully they will ask why...and we will share our faith!). When asked your favorite food, say "the Body and Blood of Christ." When asked what you're thankful for, say "Jesus." Shirts proclaiming a Christian/ProLife message. Bumper stickers/car magnets with a Christian/ProLife message.

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ and http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Read the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) that president-elect Obama plans on signing. Please sign the petition now to fight FOCA. Millions of unborn babies depend on you.
* Let's pray for courage to build relationships and talk about ProLife. Let's pray that We The People of America will shine Christ's Light and build a culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Lynn Bishara (aunt Mary with cancer), Stephanie Spader (for babies with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome), Joe Hourigan (special intention & Silbi/Sabu), Gina Prevett (Renee with brain tumor), Kay Castle (funding for Welcome Home Warriors), Tom Albrecht (health/faith of parents), Joe Castle (medical concerns), Matt Kayser (family of Jesse Alne, Jesse was killed in a motorcycle accident)

Faith quote: Joe Castle shared this quote by Billy Graham. "Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together. We must constantly strive to keep our integrity intact. When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost."

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

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

Luke 21:5-6 (Boycott Black Friday)

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

While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, he said, "All that you see here--the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down." Luke 21:5-6

Living Faith snippets: "Remember when you loved so fiercely you spent hours or days working on something you could give to the one you loved? And you felt such pride in the work and joy in the giving? Whether it landed on a prime place magneted to the refrigerator door, tucked into a jewelry box or displayed in a scrapbook, you created it with your own hands and tenacious ingenuity. Where is it now? Heavenly Father, help me remember that time is an illusion; only love remains. by Claire J. King

Rich's comments: As I prepare yet another box of material things to take to Goodwill or Salvation Army, I think to myself, did these items bring me joy in the brief time that I owned them? Sometimes I wonder as I repeat the cycle (buy things, place things on shelves, take things to Goodwill), should I just cut out the middleman and just donate money to the poor. Wouldn't that bring me greater joy than the emptiness I feel with these material things? All I remember from my past are the experiences that I have shared with others, not how many video games or books I have collected on the shelves. This Thanksgiving, when you take time to focus on what you are thankful for with family and friends, please don't take these things for granted. I think that your children would rather have you spend time with them than have you drag them along on your shopping marathon the day after Thanksgiving. You will find a greater joy at home with your family on Friday, than you ever would waiting in a long checkout line. Boycott Black Friday and spend time with your family.

Christian ID: "How would unbelievers recognize a Christian in the world?" By our love! Let's share things we can do to glorify God and love neighbor. When someone sneezes, say "God bless you." When asked for prayers, offer to pray with them on the spot. When asked about your weekend, tell about your faith activities. When someone takes the Lord's name in vain (2nd commandment), ask them gently to please not say that (hopefully they will ask why...and we will share our faith!). When asked your favorite food, say "the Body and Blood of Christ." When asked what you're thankful for, say "Jesus."

* (NEW) Beth O'Connor shared: Wear shirts proclaiming a Christian and/or pro-life message, "Christ is Christmas", "Celebrate the Birth of Christ the Lord 365 days a year", etc.

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

* Read the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) that president-elect Obama plans on signing as soon as he becomes president. Please sign the petition now to fight FOCA. Millions of unborn babies depend on you.

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Lynn Bishara (aunt Mary with cancer), Stephanie Spader (for babies with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome), Joe Hourigan (special intention & Silbi/Sabu), Gina Prevett (Renee with brain tumor), Kay Castle (funding for Welcome Home Warriors), Tom Albrecht (health/faith of parents), Joe Castle (medical concerns), Matt Kayser (family of Jesse Alne, Jesse was killed in a motorcycle accident)

* Let's pray for courage to build relationships and talk about ProLife. Let's pray that We The People of America will shine Christ's Light and build a culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Feast Day (St. Catherine of Alexandria): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=341

Faith Quote: "I sometimes wonder whether all pleasures are not substitutes for joy." by C.S. Lewis

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

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

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

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

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

Luke 21:4 (God's heart, our gratitude)

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

For those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood. Luke 21:4

Living Faith snippets: "[We] saw moments like these every day when we visited the streets of Calcutta. Homeless families sharing what little they had with other destitute families. John literally took the shirt off his back and slipped it over the head of one of the children. His impractical, shirtless presence reminded us that in this sea of need we could still contribute what little we had." by Fr. Mark Mossa

Christian ID: "How would unbelievers recognize a Christian in the world?" By our love! Let's share things we can do to glorify God and love neighbor. When someone sneezes, say "God bless you." When asked for prayers, offer to pray with them on the spot. When asked about your weekend, tell about your faith activities. When someone takes the Lord's name in vain (2nd commandment), ask them gently to please not say that (hopefully they will ask why...and we will share our faith!). When asked your favorite food, say the Body and Blood of Christ.
* NEW: In preparation for Thanksgiving, Paige's public school teacher asked each student to say one thing they are thankful for. Paige said, "Jesus."

* NEW: This past week during lunch, Angi's coworker said, "the best part of Obama's election is that he is pro-choice." Angi gently said, "that is the worst part. Life is the foundational issue." The coworker acted surprised (didn't respond). Angi said something out of love for God and neighbor (coworker and unborn babies). Let us strive to love one another to God's Truth!

Pastor Don Bird devotion: Read his devotion titled "Gratitude" at http://pastordonbird.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "Gratitude is the lens from which we look at the world. If our hearts are not filled with gratitude, we only see a receding economy, our broken relationships, the faults of others, and a world full of violence, pain, and despair. A heart filled with gratitude doesn't ignore these things, but is able to look past them to an ongoing good work of God. Remember, we are told that He works for the good of all those who love Him. (Romans 8:28). We have to work at seeing the good in people, situations, the world, because the bad and the negative seem to be right in front of us. But, the more we work at being grateful, the easier it becomes to proclaim the goodness around us. Recently, I receive the following from Timothy Merrill...[a list of attitudes to be more soul-full in response to our current economic crisis...can be applied to any situation]. No matter the crises, the difficulties, the challenges of life, there is much to be grateful for."

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ and http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Scott Casmer shared this reference for the text of the Freedom of Choice Act: http://www.nrlc.org/foca/FOCA2007S1173.html. "There is some very misguided legislation in here."

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Lynn Bishara (aunt Mary with cancer), Stephanie Spader (for babies with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome), Joe Hourigan (special intention & Silbi/Sabu), Gina Prevett (Renee with brain tumor), Kay Castle (funding for Welcome Home Warriors), Tom Albrecht (health/faith of parents), Joe Castle (medical concerns)

* Let's pray for courage to build relationships and talk about ProLife. Let's pray that We The People of America will shine Christ's Light and build a culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Feast Day (St. Andrew Dun-Lac and Companions): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=540

Faith quote: Jean Noon shared..."The heart of God is so abundant in love and its goodness is so infinite that all can possess it, without anyone's share diminishing. Infinite Goodness cannot be exhausted, even if it fills all the souls in the world. God does not pour a smaller quantity of His love into a soul because He pours out His love into an infinity of others; the power of His love is not diminished by the multitude of rays that He spreads abroad, but remain ever overflowing with its immensity." St. Francis de Sales

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

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

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