John 13:16-17 (Discipleship)

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

Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it. John 13:16-17 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "If anyone understood this Scripture passage, it was Catherine of Siena, a complex, bold figure among our noble ancestry, the communion of saints. Although she unflinchingly spoke truth to the heads of Church and State alike, she was deeply aware that the messages she bore did not originate with her, but were relayed through her. As a profoundly prayerful woman, she embraced the role of messenger and dignified the role of servant as a powerful witness to the Church by her fidelity to the Word of God in the sanctuary of her conscience." by Claire J. King

Rich's comments: What hinders any Christian disciple to become an effective learner and student would be his/her pride, which is opposite to submission and humility. Last week, my little sister Heather (20 years old) graduated from Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland AFB. I had a great time listening to my sister's stories about her BMT experience. The majority of BMT was about breaking the trainees pride down so that they could become effective learners (disciples) of Air Force doctrine and practices. Lord, grant me the humility to set my pride aside and become an effective disciple in imitating You. Amen.
* Sr. Francelle's devotion: In Everything Give Thanks

Faith Sharing: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: What issues do you have that hinder your Christian discipleship? Please consider sharing faith comments (or "like" button) on the Facebook page, appreciated by many...thank you!

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.
* NEW: Bishop Slattery Decries Pain of Women Who 'Lost Part of their Soul' to Abortion

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

Faith Quote: "He who cannot obey, cannot command." - Benjamin Franklin

Feast Day: St. Catherine of Siena

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

Acts 11:22-24 ("Ministry of Encouragement"!)

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

They sent Barnabas [to go] to Antioch. When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart, for he was a good man, filled with the holy Spirit and faith. Acts 11:22-24 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "[Like Barnabas], what if we were to take up the "Ministry of Encouragement" today, purposely looking for what's going right and taking time to affirm it? Can we open our eyes and hearts today to all the strengths and virtues present in ourselves, in others, in the workplace, in our community and country?" by Claire J. King

Pat nuggets:

* While stationed in Turkey (2000-2002), I visited this special church in Antioch (today's verse & picture). Angi and I visited the tomb of Barnabas on the island of Cyprus. The stories in the Bible really happened...Christ really gave his life for our salvation...and God really loves each one of us!

* Art Horn shared, "Faith Sharing reminded me of the movie Letters to God; amazing movie that really inspired me. I highly recommend it to everyone to see!"

* Jean Noon shared, "Mother Teresa's simple path began with silence: The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace. I think this path is sequential; skipping won't work! All these fruits begin with silence as a way to still the ego... mind and its chatter and its tendencies. Silence makes space for God's perspective. Silence makes space for grace." Mother Teresa's book, The Simple Path, is a quick read...and filled with many growth opportunities.

* Sr. Francelle's devotion: What do you do with the Bumps in life?

Faith Sharing: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: In what ways can we encourage each other to live out our faith each day? Please consider sharing faith comments (or "like" button) on the Facebook page, appreciated by many...thank you!

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

* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.

* NEW: Nebraska Enacts First-Ever Abortion Ban Based on Fetal Pain.

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

Faith Quote: St. Anselm of Canterbury, "Nor do I seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe that I may understand. For this too I believe, that unless I first believe, I shall not understand." His motto was, "Faith Seeking Understanding." He taught that faith and reason are not enemies...but the closest of friends. (shared by Stephanie Kemp)

Through Christ our Lord,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don't stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

Psalm 66:16 (Faith Sharing)

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

Hear now, all you who fear God, while I declare what he has done for me. Psalm 66:16 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "In my weakest moments, when fear threatens to engulf me and my unbelief taunts me, I recall how God has saved me in the past. I have a list of these intimate miracles - when God has gone before me and turned an impossible situation around, when circumstances were so aligned against me that the presence of an Almighty God was the only explanation remaining after the dust settled. When I speak these memories out loud, something shifts. The heavens open in response to my praise, and my heart opens in response to his power." by Kristin Armstrong

Rich's comments: If you have never had the opportunity to share your faith with others, you should try it. It is exhilarating! Sit down with some people you can trust and open up to them. Share with them about the God-sightings you have had in your life. Talk about how God was there when you really needed Him. These stories of witness are very reassuring of our faith and help to dissolve fear that we are alone. Like today's Living Faith devotion says, "something shifts when I speak [about the presence of God] out loud. The heavens open in response to my praise, and my heart opens in response to his power." Lord, may I be a witness to Your glory. Amen.
* Happy birthday to Pat on Friday, April 23rd. Thank you brother for sharing your faith with me.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Try faith sharing today with the LIFE Group. How has God shown His presence (God-sightings) in your life? Consider sharing any faith comments on the Facebook page ("like" button?), to encourage many.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, Priests for Life

* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.

* NEW: Tebow: I Lost Endorsement Opportunities over Pro-Life Ad - The Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback said, "losing sponsors was a small price to pay for the ability to spread this message about family and faith." Have the courage to share your faith with the LIFE Group today by providing your comments on the Facebook page.

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion. Vicki Kerkvliet (hip pain), Pam McGushin (parent's health), Jean Noon (God's will for her Mom).

Faith Quote: "What are Christians put into the world for except to do the impossible in the strength of God." - General S. C. Armstrong

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).

Acts 7:60 (countercultural forgiveness)

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

[Stephen] fell to his knees and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." Acts 7:60 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Stephen demonstrates an extraordinary largeness of heart as he's being stoned to death. So often we hear people who have been wronged remark that they can forgive but they can never forget. Yet Stephen begs God to not even remember what's been done against him. This amazing embrace of absolute forgiveness is so countercultural. Loving God, please give us the largeness of heart to forgive as you do." Sr. Chris Koellhoffer

Pat nuggets:
* Jean Noon shared, "During the Kairos prison retreat 5-11 April, we unraveled a prayer chain that circled the gym...there were many, many tears. The 36 women concluded their weekend with a first step: a sense of unconditional love, forgiveness, hope, and trust. At the beginning of the weekend the women were quite overcome with feelings of worthlessness, emptiness, brokenness, aloneness, and a deep sense of being unlovable. I was personally overwhelmed by the wisdom of so many of the women I met. One told me that she is grateful for her difficult cell-mate because she is teaching her patience. They know that they have choices in each moment: to be open to the lessons that they must/will ultimately learn...or to be closed/resistant, taking them that much longer to learn the lessons that they (and we all) will inevitably learn. Peace be with you! And forgiveness in each moment!"

* Stephanie Kemp shared, "There is so much wonderful 'spiritual stuff' available (including the LIFE Group Devotions)." The devotions are concisely written for busy people (snippets, nuggets, links). Thanks to all those who take a few minutes to consume each devotion and share it with others...a really high five!

* Need some Spiritual mojo? Check out this music video: Get Back Up by TobyMac.

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

* NEW: How can our seemingly little choices have big impacts on our relationship with God? Consider sharing any faith comments on the Facebook page ("like" button?), to encourage many.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, Priests for Life
* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.
* NEW: Young People: God Challenges Us All To Be Better.

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

* NEW: Vicki Kerkvliet (hip pain), Pam McGushin (parent's health), Jean Noon (God's will for her Mom)

Faith Quote: "May you be leaven for the world, changing it from within, especially by the example of your lives." John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. "If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead."
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don't stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

John 6:5 (working things out)

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

When Jesus raised His eyes and saw that a large crowd was coming to Him, he said to Philip, "Where can we buy enough food for them to eat?" John 6:5 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Sometimes we're stumped by certain situations in our families, workplaces, parishes or nations. Everything looks hopeless. That's precisely the time we must turn to Jesus and ask for His help. He just might work things out in ways we could not even imagine." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda

Pat nuggets:

* Admin: Starting next week, the devotions will be sent on Tues/Thurs. Between Sabbath days, this still allows two opportunities to provide Spiritual food that is inspirational, ecumenical (Christian unity), and ProLife (defends the unborn). Perhaps with only two devotions per week, more members will routinely take a few minutes to read the devotions and periodically share their devotion thoughts on the Facebook page ("Faithbook"), even just click "like" button or email comments directly to Rich/me. After all, we are called the Living In Faith Exchange Group...the Exchange helps keep our faith alive!

* Sr. Francelle's devotion: Staying Connected With Your Teen‏. This devotion compliments today's Living Faith snippets and Faith Quote. Sr. Francelle recommended the book "Your Kids at Risk" by Dr. Meg Meeker (M.D.). Another eye opening book by Dr. Meeker is called "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters."

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link. Welcome to our newest member, Filomena Smolenski, president of A Woman’s Answer crisis pregnancy center in Gainesville, FL.

* NEW: Have you used prayer (asked God) to help you "work things out" with any strained relationships? Consider sharing your devotion thoughts on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

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

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

* NEW: The Eucharist, Heart of Christian Life

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Christy Hubka (Fr. Mel Thompsen's health), Brenda Alvine (God's protection for her family), China earthquake

* NEW: Pat Castle (the sale of Steve/Tina's home)

Faith Quote: "Prayer is a formidable weapon. In the human heart, it destroys the "wall" blocking God's love and fills in the chasms of hatred, distrust, and resentment that often cause divisions between individuals and peoples." John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don't stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

Acts 5:19-20 ("Faith Is Our Life")

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

During the night, the angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison, led them out, and said, "Go and take your place in the temple area, and tell the people everything about this life." Acts 5:19-20 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "As I prepared this devotion, I was struck by the words, "tell the people everything about this life." The phrase "this life" underscored for me that, for the early Christians, faith in Jesus was not a pastime, diversion or sport. It was their life. It was a commitment of their whole selves to the person and teachings of Jesus. As such, their faith formed their attitudes. It shaped their decision-making. It determined their choices. Sometimes their faith led them to prison or even to death in the public arena." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda, S.N.D.

Rich's comments: In the U.S., we are blessed that we are allowed to practice our faith without fear of going to prison or being put to death. However, some of our politicians probably believe that truly practicing the teachings of Jesus Christ would lead to their death in the political arena, and this is a commitment they are not willing to make. I don't understand how some people are able to compartmentalize their lives (i.e., support a culture of death, while claiming to be followers of the Gospel of life). Christianity is a lifestyle, not a religion, or a disguise. Authentic Christians are not "lukewarm" (Rev 3:15-16), but are fully committed to Christ. Lord, may I have the courage to live an authentic Christian life and to "tell the people everything about this life" in You. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: What defines your lifestyle as a Christian? Consider sharing your devotion thoughts on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies)...courageously share ProLife Truth to expose abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free.
* NEW: Nebraska Enacts First-Ever Abortion Ban Based on Fetal Pain

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Helene Couchon (healing), Joe Levisky (health of daughter and baby Lily), Christy Hubka (Fr. Mel Thompsen's health).
* NEW: Brenda Alvine (God's protection for her family)

Faith Quote: "Until you know Christ, you're not living, you're just existing." - unknown author

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).

John 3:8 ("wind and Spirit")

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

The wind blows where it wills...; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit. John 3:8 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "The Greek word "pneuma" means both "wind" and "spirit." John, no doubt, was using this double meaning." by Heather Wilson

Pat nuggets:

* Angi and me ran the St. Louis marathon yesterday, and the wind (Spirit) certainly blew in our favor. I just made it under 3 hrs (2:59:41) because of inspiration from two unique experiences. At mile 6, I was sprinkled with holy water by a joy-filled priest. He was off to the side, blessing those who ran over to him. During mile 22, I was fading and started to figure I wouldn't break 3 hours. At mile 23, I passed by the giant Planned Parenthood abortuary and took on extra suffering (picked up the pace) as a prayer for the unborn (and their parents). Angi ran the entire race with our neighbor...to help our neighbor finish her first marathon. Angi ran her best time...in giving we do receive. In 3 weeks I will pace my friend Fr. Jonathan for the Pittsburgh Marathon. He introduced me to his term for one of our faith practices...“redemptive running”, which is praying for others in the midst of running challenges. Our marathon will be a mini-retreat...may the wind be at our backs!

* As yesterday was Divine Mercy Sunday, Stephanie Kemp shared the following (paraphrased from Bishop Sheridan, Colorado Springs). "The greatest attribute of God is His Mercy, and we should never despair of it. Also, our secular culture teaches that everything is permitted and nothing needs forgiveness." Let's thank God for His Mercy!

Faith Challenge: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Today's image is the St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls, SD. How can we treat our homes like a Cathedral (see Faith Quote below)? Consider sharing your devotion thoughts on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

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

* NEW: 1,800 Carry Cross of Abortion on Good Friday at Minn. Planned Parenthood

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Helene Couchon (healing)

* NEW: Joe Levisky, "I want to thank all of you who included my daughter's difficult pregnancy in their prayers. She successfully (cesarean section) delivered Lily. Unfortunately, Lily has severe problems, and my daughter is experiencing severe post-partum depression. With the power of prayer we brought her through once, so I'm asking you to include my daughter and Lily in your prayers to get them through."

* NEW: Christy Hubka (Fr. Mel Thompsen's health), Brenda Alvine (God's protection for her family)

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Faith Quote: Last night, we went to Mass at the Cathedral in Belleville, IL. This quote was on the bulletin cover. "You enter this Cathedral...not as a stranger, but as a quest of God. Come, then, with joy in your heart and thanks on your lips. Be grateful for the strong and faithful ones who built this place of worship, and to all who have beautified and hallowed it by their prayer and praise. Offer your prayers and thanks here...adore Christ's Real Presence...honor the saints. Rejoice in the power of the Holy Spirit, that the Lord's blessing may rest on you, on both your coming in and your going out."

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don't stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

John 21:6 (The Eighth Day)

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

So he said to them, "Cast the net over the right side of the boat and you will find something." John 21:6 (full readings)

Steve's Thoughts:

* Regarding today's verse, I wonder what Peter thought when Jesus said this to them? Peter was a seasoned fisherman and new the sea well. Yet when he obeyed the risen Lord's command his nets were overflowing! I think back on the times when I have attempted something of my own accord only to see it fizzle and die away. When God blesses something, it will flourish to abundance or in this case to the point where they can't even haul in the nets. God will multiply our works if we humbly give them to him. He will straighten our paths, and clear away the rocky rubble.

* This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday or the Feast of Mercy as declared by Pope John Paul II for the whole world. Read more about this beautiful devotion in Sr. Francelle's devotion (below).

* Fr. Greg Paffel (Church of Our Lady of Victory, Fergus Falls, MN) talked about the "eighth day"; as Children of the Resurrection we live in this eighth day. God never talked about the seventh day ending, but we find that conclusion in Jesus' words on the cross as he gave up his spirit, "It is finished."

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Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Jesus, Have Mercy On Us. Here is a snippet..."There is a story about a teacher who gave each of her little students an empty plastic Easter egg and asked each to fill it with something about Easter. As each child opened their egg to show it to the others - one had a flower inside to signify new life, another had a nail because they nailed Jesus to a tree, another had a small stone because of the stone put in front of the tomb. But the last egg was opened by a little mentally challenged boy, whose egg had nothing inside. The teacher asked what this meant and he replied that the tomb was empty on Easter morning, which means that Jesus is God and He did raise Himself from the dead! A little child had grasped the meaning of the empty tomb! The riches of our faith depend on that empty tomb."

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Have you ever toiled at something to no avail, only to try again and see it flourish? Consider sharing the miracle of God's timing on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Helene Couchon (healing)

Faith Quote: "Mercy is getting what you don't deserve." ~ Sr. Francelle Clarke

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).

Acts 3:6 (Spring cleaning!)

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

Peter said, "I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, [rise and] walk." Acts 3:6 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Lately, I have been purging. Recent experiences of loss as well as a move in the offing have made cleaning out more important. I am trying to figure out what I have that is worth keeping and, when the time comes, passing on to others. Whatever speaks of God's lasting love, mercy and peace seems to be the answer. Lord Jesus, fill me with your love so that I might share it." Amy Welborn

Pat nugget: Heart Of Worship.

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

* NEW: What needs to be purged in your life (spiritual Spring cleaning)? Consider sharing your devotion thoughts on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

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

* Never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies)...courageously share ProLife Truth to expose abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free.
* NEW: Lutheran Pastor Defends Pope Against Attacks over Sex Abuse Crisis

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Helene Couchon (healing)

Faith Quote: "May young people discover in the heart of Christian homes the high noble ideals that will alleviate their deep-seated anxiety and protect them from the temptations of a culture devoid of solidarity or horizons, one that irreversibly leads to emptiness and discouragement." Pope John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,

Pat
Phil 4:13

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don't stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

Psalm 16:11 ("My Redeemer Lives!")

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 will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights of your right hand forever. Psalm 16:11 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Happiness consists of knowing what you want, and then knowing you have it. What we want is God. "Our hearts will not rest until they rest in you, O Lord." Our minds seek infinite truth. Our hearts are made for infinite love. We already enjoy it, but there is infinitely more in eternal life." by Fr. M. Basil Pennington

Pat nuggets: Our Savior has risen from the dead...bringing us eternal life...Happy Easter!

* Angi Castle shared this awesome music video: My Redeemer Lives.

* For those who feel like doing an Irish jig to celebrate Easter: The Lord of the Dance.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Consider ways to keep Lenten spiritual discipline alive in your daily routines. Please share your devotion thoughts on the Facebook page, to be appreciated by many.

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)...courageously share ProLife Truth to expose abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free.

* NEW: For some perspective on this sad issue, Forgotten Study - Abuse in School 100 Times Worse than by Priests.

* NEW: Pope Benedict XVI Calls on Christians to Stand against Injustice of Abortion

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Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion, Stephanie Kemp (special intention), Helene Couchon (healing)

Faith Quote: "May we in our daily lives break through the walls of the visible world in order to keep our eyes always and everywhere fixed on the Lord." Pope John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, pornography, bitterness, criticalness, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don't stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

John 19:16 (GOOD FRIDAY)

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

Then [Pilate] handed [Jesus] over to them. John 19:16 (full readings)

Sr. Francelle's Devotion Snippets: "Good Friday is the saddest day of the year. On this day, we walk with Jesus as He carries His cross in sorrow. The Stations of the Cross often bring tears to my eyes, as it wasn't just a cross of wood He carried on his shoulder; instead, it was my sins. Each of us has our own hidden sorrows deep within our hearts; if we unite our pain with the sorrows of Jesus and Mary, they will help us to bear them. As He hung in pain for three long hours on the cross, He looks ahead to all who will reject Him and lose their souls to hell, despite the chance they have to be saved." Easter Joy

Steve's Thoughts: Good Friday. At noon Christ began his horrific journey to Golgotha. We know that he gave up his spirit at approximately 3pm. The devotion is arriving at the hour of his passion to honor Jesus and to focus our time with him today. Why do we call it "Good"? All the sins of the past, present, and future were reconciled on the Cross that day; today. The innocent lamb, led to slaughter, made that sacrifice for all of humanity in one glorious act. We say in mass, "Lord by your cross and resurrection, you have set us free. You are the savior of the world." Let us rejoice in those words today as we contemplate the magnitude of this glorious, "Good" Friday. Lord Jesus, let us remember your sacrifice for us today at the hour of your death; 3pm.
* Watch the Lamb Video by Ray Boltz - This will help you enter into Good Friday...

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: I once heard it said many would gladly give up their life to save a son, but who could give up the life of their ONLY Son to save the life of another? 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.

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

Faith Quote: "As Jesus stepped into the garden, you were in His prayers. As Jesus looked into heaven, you were in His vision. His final prayer was about you. His final pain was for you. His final passion was you." by Deacon Adejoh

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).