Psalm 146:6-7 (for tough times...)

Let's welcome God every morning before work by giving a few minutes to read this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (life-devotions.blogspot.com), which is based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

The Lord keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry. Psalm 146:6-7 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "When we feel lonely and weak, we can count on God's fidelity to uphold us. When we feel lost, we can trust in God's promise to guide us. When we are oppressed by our inability to love and forgive, we can believe in God's power to free us. God's love touches us at every moment. We have only to recognize it in our daily lives as we are strengthened by its power. Lord, may my hope in you bring me peace, and may it give me the strength to become what you made me to be."

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

* NEW: Let's reflect on God's healing power...and allow it to strengthen us and help others on our journey today.

LIFE Group nuggets:

* Jean Noon commented on yesterday's devotion. "I visited Beijing on the one-year anniversary of Tiananmen. The tank man was willing to lay down his life; self-preservation goes out the window when it comes to matters of the soul! Such a wake-up call to all who witnessed it! We recently watched the film “Gandhi” which is a great study in how sacrifice is key to any response to injustice (as were MLKing, Jr’s and Desmond Tutu’s stories). It was Gandhi’s purpose “to wake up” the Indians and the British government to the unjust practices of the British. He led the Indians to peacefully receive the brutality which was being administered by the British under the guise of upholding the law. Responding peacefully in the face of brutality was the key to their moral authority and credibility. It’s painful for those who have to undertake that cross -- to disregard the ego’s need for self-preservation -- but it follows Jesus’ truth. In effect they are saying, “I am willing to pay the price to renew this situation even though I am not the cause of this situation.” I believe this is what it means to fulfill the great commission: to embody sacrifice (til it hurts) as the first step in any of our undertakings as the salt in our environments. According to Jesus, one’s spiritual life is infinitely more important than one’s physical life. It’s awful that the murderer of George Tiller had such a collapse of imagination that he couldn’t think of a more creative way to wake people up! Gandhi did not seek vengeance (just consequences), punishment, or retribution for those who trespassed against him."

* Sr. Francelle's devotion: So many people in the world are searching for something

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's courageously share ProLife Truth (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn free!

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

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, addictions, Sue Peters (Wendi Kotlinsky cancer treatment), Carol Nesbitt (cousin Rob Mischel with brain cancer), Carla Neal (Cyndy, Anita & Collin)

* NEW: Jason Peters (his son JP in hospital)

Feast day: St. Boniface

Faith Quote: "Through prayer you will learn to become light of the world, because in prayer you become one with the source of our true light, Jesus himself." 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, 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)!

Psalm 57:8 (putting God at the Center)

Let's welcome God every morning before 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

My heart is steadfast, O God; my heart is steadfast. Psalm 57:8 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "I learned that with a labyrinth, unlike a maze, if you simply keep following the path, you will come to the center. I walked with a burden weighing heavily on me and prayed as I walked. At the center, I sat quietly, feeling myself in God's presence. Placing God at the center of our lives gives us steadfast hearts. We may be traveling a rocky path or facing a terrible situation, but walk it we must. And awaiting us at the center is God who will hold us in love, heal us and show us the path out." by Heather Wilson

Rich's comments: Today's devotion about the labyrinth reminded me of my trip to Tucson, Arizona to visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac, built by Father Kino in 1700. In the church you can see the Man-in-the-Maze logo on the floor and altar. This famous logo of the Tohono O'odham nation is shown on the basket pictured with this devotion. A common interpretation is as follows: The human figure stands for the O'odham people. The maze represents the difficult journey toward finding deeper meaning in life. The twists an turns refer to struggles and lessons learned along the way. At the center of the maze is a circle, which stands for death, and for becoming one with God. Lord, I know that I struggle to walk a straight path towards You, but by placing You as the center of my life, I know that my path eventually leads to You.

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News.
* NEW: Ask yourself what is in the center of your life? Where does your path lead?

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's courageously share ProLife Truth (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn free!

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, addictions, Jason Peters (son JP), Kathy Castle (Michael Moon hand infection), Carla Neal (Harold Heard, Jamie, Joyce & all of you), Pat, Angi, & 4 cadets (safe trip to China and back)

Feast Day: St. Isidore

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

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

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

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

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

Let's joyfully invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

John 14:31 (overcoming adversity)

Let's welcome God every morning before 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

The world must know that I love the Father and that I do just as the Father has commanded me. John 14:31 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Doing whatever the Father commanded led Jesus down a terrible path: separation from his family, desertion by his friends and followers, torture and a painful death on the cross. Whenever I start to throw myself a pity party for some little cross I'm bearing, I should think of Jesus." by Heather Wilson

Rich's comments: After reading all three readings today (full readings), I recognized an underlying theme: overcoming adversity. If we back up one verse (John 14:30) before today's highlighted Gospel verse, it quotes Jesus saying, "I will no longer speak much with you, for the ruler of the world is coming. He has no power over me, but the world must know that I love the Father and that I do just as the Father has commanded me." I take great comfort in knowing that if I follow Jesus, I am doing what God has commanded and the ruler of the world will have no power over me. Sometimes we may feel that we are alone in following Christ. We are ridiculed, isolated, and humiliated. It would be so much easier to conform to the world view, but we must persevere in the faith for "it is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God." (Acts 14:22). Whenever you are undergoing hardships in your life, remember Jesus who has gone before us to set us free.

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

* NEW: Remind others that they are not alone in following Jesus. Be Christ to others and support them through their hardships.

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

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's courageously share ProLife Truth (John 14:6) to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn free!

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

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, addictions, Jason Peters (son JP), Kathy Castle (Michael Moon hand infection), Carla Neal (Harold Heard, Jamie, Joyce & all of you)

Feast Day: St. Nereus, St. Achilleus, St. Pancras

Faith Quote: "Often our work doesn't begin to bear fruit until, like grains of wheat, we fall to the earth and die." Jn 12:24

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 6:37 (judgment vs Judgment)

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

Stop judging and you will not be judged. Luke 6:37

Living Faith snippets: "Biblical judgment is not aimed at punishment but at restoring relationship. We are called to analyze our beliefs, weigh them according to the criteria of the gospel [not moral relativism], correct some of them and focus on restoring relationships. Happiness flows from overcoming the human propensity to condemn others, and working generously to build up relationships with them." by Sr. Kathryn James Hermes

* Judgment (big J, condemnation) belongs to our merciful and gracious God...but God has equipped us to judge (small j) good from evil, by using His gifts of natural law, the Holy Spirit (our helper), and the Bible.

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

* NEW: Let's use God's gifts to help each other judge good from evil ...and then lovingly hold each other accountable to choosing good (God). May we unconditionally love our neighbor regardless of their choice (non-Judgemental)...but if necessary, set boundaries to prevent the perpetuation of evil. Lord God, please forgive us for the times we have condemned others (your Judgment), for the times we have failed to judge good and evil based on Your laws, and for the times we lacked the courage to hold ourselves and our neighbors accountable to Your will. Amen.

Stations of the Cross (2): Jesus carries His cross

* Consider attending a Stations of the Cross service (Friday evenings, nondenominational).

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images). Abortion is #1 cause of death in America.

* NOW (25 Feb-5 Apr): Please be part of the 40 Days for Life campaign by praying in front of an abortion mill for one hour...defending the voiceless unborn.

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

* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, jobs, Sue Peters (Carrie), Rob Ouellette (Renato, Amy, Maryann, Mark, Elaine), Stephanie Spader (Maasa)

Feast Day: St. Francis

Faith Quote: "To move forward in faith, your God image must periodically fall apart. Your self-image must periodically fall apart as well. If you are willing to let go of both of them, you will really grow." Fr. Richard Rohr (shared by Jean Noon)

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

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

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

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

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

Let's joyfully invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 5:23-24 (Reconciliation)

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

If...your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother. Matthew 5:23-24

Living Faith snippets: "Reconciliation is difficult for many of us. Dear Lord, help us to truly live your command to love by forgiving friends and strangers." by Beth Dotson Brown

Life Group nuggets:
* Sr Francelle's devotion titled First Communion (a letter to children). John 6:25-70.
* Pastor Don's devotion that I titled Children's Faith (about his children). When having lunch with Pastor Don last week, I noticed this statement on the front of his shirt, "It's not about me."

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: Let's do a random act of kindness today...for love of God and neighbor.

Stations of the Cross (1): Jesus is condemned to death
* Consider attending the powerful Stations of the Cross service (~45 min) at a Catholic Church (for all denominations, Friday evenings during Lent).

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images). Abortion is #1 cause of death in America.
* NOW (25 Feb-5 Apr): Please be part of the 40 Days for Life campaign by praying in front of an abortion mill for one hour...defending the voiceless unborn.

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, jobs, Sue Peters (Carrie)
* NEW: Rob Ouellette (Renato, Amy, Maryann, Mark, Elaine), Stephanie Spader (Maasa)

Faith Quote: "God can make something good come out of all of this greed [economic crisis]. We (as well as the rest of the world) have been headed down a slippery slope of Godlessness and materialism. People will turn back to God." Kathy Castle

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.
* 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 11:30 (love our enemies)

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

Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. Luke 11:30

Living Faith snippets: "The Book of Jonah is a parable telling us to forgive our enemies. The Ninevites were the enemies of Israel, but they were not God's enemies. They were God's children and enjoyed the tender love and mercy of their creator. Therefore, God did not destroy the Ninevites, as Jonah had desired, but forgave them. Lord, help us eliminate our enemies through forgiveness and love." by Fr. James McKarns

Life Group nuggets:

* Angi Castle: "Whatever you did for one of these...you did for me." [Yesterday's devotion verse] is very fitting as I just said it to the girls on Sunday after we gave a man a McDonald's gift card. He was standing at the exit holding a sign saying "out of work with 3 kids to feed." He said, "God bless you thank you so much." I then blessed him back. Paige said that God was right there with the man.

* Stephanie Kemp shared this 1.5 min video, Everyone Against Abortion, Raise Your Hand!.

* Rich Reich set up a Facebook group for us ("Life Group Devotions"). If you are on Facebook, please join the group and invite your friends (Mark 16:15).

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: "Take ten minutes and read the Book of Jonah...it is good enemy-loving therapy." by Fr. James McKarns

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images). Abortion is #1 cause of death in America.

* NOW (25 Feb-5 Apr): Please take part in the 40 Days for Life campaign by praying in front of an abortion mill for one hour (love for God & neighbor). Dozens of Lives Saved So Far in 40 Days for Life Spring Campaign.

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

* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, jobs, Rob Ouellette (Mark, Levi, Karl), Stephanie Spader (special intentions), Sue Peters (Carrie Maniscalco updates),
* NEW: Peters family (JP's miraculous recovery, updates)

Feast Day: St. Casimir

Faith Quote: "It's not what you do but who you are that's most important." author unknown (shared by Sharon Carlson)

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

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

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

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

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

Let's joyfully invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 6:10 (Thy will be done)

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

Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as in Heaven. Matthew 6:10

Living Faith snippets: ""They will be done." It's a comfort that our Father unceasingly offers to us all. Dear God, thy will be done." by Beth Dotson Brown

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

* NEW: Embrace Lent as a "40 Days for Eternal Life" campaign.

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images). Abortion is #1 cause of death in America.

* NOW (25 Feb-5 Apr): Please take part in the 40 Days for Life campaign by praying in front of an abortion mill for one hour (love for God & neighbor).

* NEW: "Jesus said, "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" (Matt 26:40) He sweat drops of His Precious Blood when He saw all the sins of the world that would take Him to The Cross for each one of us. Can you offer up just one hour in prayer as a witness for Life? Father Bill says we are at the Foot of the Cross with His Blessed Mother every time we are on the sidewalk at Planned Parenthood." by Stephanie Kemp

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

* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Peters family (JP updates), Rich Reich (friend's cancer surgery), Rob Ouellette (Mark, Levi, Karl), Carolyn (research advisor has terminal cancer)

* NEW: Stephanie Spader (special intentions), Sue Peters (Carrie Maniscalco)

Faith Quote: "Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain!" by Beth Moore (shared by Jean Noon)

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat
Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

* 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)!

Isaiah 58:6 (prayer/fasting for freedom!)

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

This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly... Setting free the oppressed... Isaiah 58:6

Living Faith snippets: "Our Lenten fasting must go beyond giving up desserts or other favorite foods. Our fasting must somehow affect other people for the better. If we give up that cup of specialty coffee, for example, we might want to contribute the money we saved to a local food bank or other charity. Fasting is best when there is a direct link between what we give up and what we give over to those in need. Set free "those bound unjustly"...someone bound by addiction, ignorance, poverty, illness, or old age [pregnant Mom considering abortion out of fear or pressure]. We help free them [and ourselves] when we visit them, listen to them, teach them, offer them advice, extend forgiveness [and] pray for them. Emancipator God, help me to free someone who is bound unjustly or who is oppressed." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda

LIFE Group nuggets:

* While at the AF Academy chapel on Ash Wed, light on my praying hands caused a shadow that looked like the AF Academy chapel, with my finger tips as the steeples. Father Joe mentioned that our ability to say "no" while fasting strengthens our ability to say "yes" to God. The root of disciple is indeed discipline! When I woke up on Ash Wed, I thought is was appropriate that I felt compelled to take out the trash...

* Liz Curry: powerful One Pair of Hands video (3 min).

* Mike Castle: 7 min video about WWII...filled with patriotism, faith, and love for neighbor.

* Sister Francelle: her devotion titled Lent 2009.

* Pastor Don: his devotion that I titled Lent 2009.

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: In preparation for Easter, let's embrace our Lenten giving up and giving over (see Living Faith snippets above).

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images). Abortion is #1 cause of death in America.
* NOW: Please be part of the 40 Days for Life campaign (25 Feb - 5 Apr) by praying in front of an abortion mill for one hour (love for God & neighbor).

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer), Peters family (JP updates), Rich Reich (friend's breast cancer surgery)

* NEW: Pam Hourigan (Buffalo Awakening retreat in Boulder), Rob Ouellette (Janet, Tim, Marie & Shari), Carolyn (research advisor has terminal melanoma cancer)

Faith Quote: Angi Castle shared. "Where there's His will, there's a way." author unknown

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully invite others to join our LIFE Group...Rich or Pat will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Matthew 6:1 (Lent begins!)

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

Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. Matthew 6:1

Living Faith snippets: "Ashes on the forehead are readily observed by others. Jesus asks us to "take care" with regard to our motivation for religious practices. Lent is a time to break the cycle of focusing on ourselves and other people's opinions of us in order to offer ourselves to God alone. Let God purify the best of our intentions and toss out the rest. Lord, I offer you my prayer, fasting and almsgiving this Lent. Do with them what you will." by Mark Neilsen

LIFE Group nuggets:
* USAFA Cadet Chapel: "Come ready to begin this Season of Hope/Growth. Ash Wednesday/Good Friday are days of Fast (one full, 2 light meals, no snacking) and Abstinence (no eating meat). All Fridays of Lent are days of Abstinence."
* Kathy Castle: "It is the guilt that brings me to the cross where I find forgiveness and Christ's payment for my sins."
* Rich Reich: "We are the body of Christ that reaches out to others with healing hands, not the cold granite stones of the physical church building."
* Steve Castle: "My key take away from The Shack (book) is God = Relationship."

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: Study the info about Ash Wednesday below and prepare your heart in preparation for your neighbor asking you why you have ashes on your forehead.

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images). Abortion is #1 cause of death in America.
* NEW: 40 Days for Life campaign (25 Feb - 5 Apr) is an around the clock prayer vigil in front of abortion mills in 130 communities around the world. Please sign up for even just one hour (sacrifice out of love for God & neighbor).

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer), Peters family (JP updates)
* NEW: Rob Ouellette (Janet Colson by-pass surgery), Rich Reich (KC fish fry)

Ash Wednesday: "Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Season of Lent. It is a season of penance, reflection, and fasting which prepares us for Christ's Resurrection on Easter Sunday, through which we attain redemption. Remember, Man is dust, and unto dust you shall return. Ashes are a symbol of penance...they help us develop a spirit of humility and sacrifice. The distribution of ashes comes from a ceremony of ages past. Christians who had committed grave faults performed public penance [in ashes]."

Faith Quote: Stephanie Spader shared this prayer. "[Dear Heavenly Father,] as we live through this Ash Wednesday, may the crosses of ashes that mark our foreheads be a reminder to us and to those we meet that we belong to your Son. [Amen.]" author unknown

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.
* 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)!

Mark 9:23-24 (preservative for eternal life!)

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

Jesus said to him..."Everything is possible to one who has faith." Then the boy's father cried out, "I do believe, help my unbelief!" Matt 9:23-24

Living Faith snippets: "His son has experienced violent convulsions since childhood, often threatening the young man with serious harm and even death. Jesus sees the faith the faith has and cures his son. Our faith is strengthened and deepened by our steady, intimate conversations with God." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda

Pat nuggets:

* While visiting with Michael Kayser, we came up with the analogy of our faith in Christ being a preservative for eternal life. Without the preservative of faith, our life will deteriorate.

* Joe Hourigan said that we should treat sin like an injury that requires immediate attention...self-aid/buddy-care and professional treatment with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

* Pope says fasting in Lent opens hearts to God, hands to the poor, by Cindy Wooden

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

* NEW: Attend a morning Ash Wed service (25 Feb) and wear your ashes all day.

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images).

* 40 Days for Life campaign (25 Feb - 5 Apr) is an around the clock prayer vigil in front of abortion mills in 130 communities around the world. Please sign up for even just one hour.

* NEW: Carol Nesbitt shared this article, ND Senate approves abortion clinic signs.

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

* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer), Peters family (JP updates), Rob Ouellette (Vicki, Betty, Steve, Carissa, & Fr. McHugh)

Feast Day: St Polycarp

Faith Quote: "Blaming God is a continual problem in the life of the skeptic. Only God can change hearts. You however, can be there when they call on you." Chad Livingston

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

* 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)!

Genesis 2:15 (big cell phone to God)

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

The Lord God then took the man and settled him in the garden of Eden, to cultivate and care for it. Genesis 2:15

Living Faith snippets: "As God's finest creation, we human beings are part of one integral earth community, and we have a special responsibility to be good stewards of the earth. We must tenderly care for the ill in our midst, whether the ill be other human beings or planet Earth itself." Sr. Melannie Svoboda

LIFE Group nuggets:

* Angi Castle pointed out that yesterday's verse is a reflection of our culture war. "You disregard God's command, but cling to human tradition." Mark 7:8

* In Paige Castle's 3rd grade Sunday School class, we talked about being on guard against things becoming "gods" that take us away from our merciful and gracious God (First Commandment). A couple nights ago, Paige cut out two paper cell phones (one big, one small). She said, "Dad, the big cell phone is to God, and the little cell phone is to everything else."

* Mike Castle shared this music video, http://www.bornagainamerican.org/.

* Ross Paulick shared this article, Fla. doctor loses license after botched abortion.

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

* NEW: Read the very short book of James (in the Bible)...you will not be disappointed!

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images).

* NEW: Obama's 'duplicity' on life issue, "In his speech Thursday morning, the president stated, "There is no God who condones taking the life of an innocent human being.""

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* Prayer to end abortion, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, Pres Obama becomes ProLife, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Rich Reich (Fr. Tim cancer surgery), Liz Curry (abused children), Zek Kazanca (PhD exam prep), Bro Joe Castle (unresolved medical issue), Peters family (JP updates), Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer surgery), Rob Ouellette (Leo & Suzanne)

* NEW: Ann Schaefbauer (Ian Keisacker, 1st grader, who is recovering from brain surgery)

Feast Day: Our Lady of Lourdes

Faith Quote: "Man's real and most profound sickness is the absence of God, the absence of the source of truth and love." Pope Benedict XVI

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat
Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson, “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.'
* 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)!

Mark 6:55 (healing/building God's temple)

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

They scurried about the surrounding country and began to bring in the sick on mats, to wherever they heard He was. Mark 6:55

Living Faith snippets: "It takes a lot of courage to admit that one needs healing. When we do this, Jesus' power to heal is available to us too; we only need to present ourselves. What in your life needs healing? What the crippled, withered or oozing parts of your soul that require Jesus' healing touch? Ask Jesus to transform these scars into new flesh. This takes courage and faith." by David Nantais

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: Put a Bible verse reference in your signature block, which shares the Good News and sends a message to yourself/others that your true identity is from God.

Pastor Don: Read his devotion here titled "Haggai 1:1-15". Some snippets: "Over the last 2 months, the Lord has laid on my heart Haggai 1:1-15. Haggai was a prophet that challenged the Jews who had returned from Exile in Babylon to see where their hearts and priorities really lay. They had laid the foundation for a new temple, but when enemies seemed to apply pressure, the work stopped. But, even when the barriers were lifted, the people lapsed into spiritual lethargy. They had lost their passion for the worship of the living God. They procrastinated by saying, "It just doesn't seem to be the right time." (v. 2) [I often hear this with the ProLife movement.] Haggai recognized the hard economic times (ring a bell?) in verse 6. He brought the people face to face with the real issue, as he exhorted them to look at their own spiritual condition. They were focusing on insignificant matters, like the decoration of their homes, while every day they ignored God's temple lying in ruins. If the people ignored the physical ruin of the temple, they were ignoring the spiritual wreckage in their souls as well. Have I neglected my temple to pursue worldly pleasures? Am I giving excuses to God saying, "Right now is not the time for me to work on that issue. I'm not in a good place, God, to work on that relationship [love neighbor]. I don't have the tools, God, to reconstruct my life and make you the center of it right now [love God]." Are we willing to spend the time to ensure that the church is on a strong foundation and is that mighty fortress for people to experience the living God in their lives? I want to "consider my ways" (v. 5), and the ways of the Lord, so that He may take pleasure in my life and be glorified through it (v. 8). Amen."

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

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

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

* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

* Prayer to end abortion, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, Pres Obama becomes ProLife, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Rich Reich (Fr. Tim cancer surgery), Liz Curry (abused children), Zek Kazanca (PhD exam prep), Bro Joe Castle (unresolved medical issue), Peters family (JP updates), Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer surgery), Rob Ouellette (Leo & Suzanne)

Faith Quote: Rob Ouellette shared. "Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly...Leave the rest to God." author unknown

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson, “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.'

* 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 me will gladly add them to the devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Mark 6:5-6 (everyone needs healing)

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

So He was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying His hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith. Mark 6:5-6

Living Faith snippets: "The gospel story teaches us that our cooperation is essential if we are to be changed by the healing touch of God. Without the openness of faith, the healing power of Jesus cannot enter into us. Love can only enter into our minds and hearts when they are open through the gift of trust. All of us need some kind of healing. Lord, help me to see where I need to be healed, and increase my faith in the power of your healing love." by Fr. Kenneth Grabner

Pat nuggets: John Shannon, Shane Hall, Angi, and me (LIFE Runners) had our picture taken with ex-Gov Blagojevich after the River to River race in IL (Apr 2005). At the time, I did not realize that Gov Blagojevich is strongly pro-abortion. His removal from office last week was a victory for unborn IL residents (details here). While stationed in Turkey, Angi and me had dinner with then Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle (2002). Although he was very kind to us, we will not support him with his staunchly pro-abortion stance. Sen Daschle's removal from consideration (yesterday) for secretary of health and human services is a victory for unborn Americans! Today's Living Faith devotion (above) highlights that we are all patients who need spiritual healing, and Pastor Don's devotion (below) highlights how love is first patient. Heavenly Father, we pray that mothers with unplanned pregnancies will have patience (love, trust) to carry their children.

Pastor Don: Read his devotion titled "Patience!". Some snippets: "Do you struggle with patience? 2 Peter 1:5-7 shares with us, "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity." Is your patience being tested today? Great! Remember, love is (first of all) patient. [1 Cor. 13:4] The Lord is training you toward godliness - to perfect your love and with it to transform the world around you for His glory!"

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to J.O.Y.-fully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15). Suggestions?
* NEW: Strive to set aside at least one hour throughout each day for loving your spouse (visiting, helping, just being together)...and at least one hour throughout each day for loving your children (visiting, get on their level, just be with them).

Culture War/ProLife News: LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

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

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

* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

* Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, Pres Obama becomes ProLife, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Papa Joe Castle (brain bleed resolution), Maureen Morgan (reconciliation for Sue Peterson and son), Rich Reich (Fr. Tim prostate surgery Thurs)

* NEW: Liz Curry (abused children), Rob Ouellette (Helmy, Ruth, Shane, Reda’s father, Di), Zek Kazanca (PhD exam 12 Feb in Turkey), Peters family (JP updates, consider fasting for him)

Faith Quote: "Fasting transcends the earthly dimension and pursues an objective that is beyond this world." Cardinal Cordes

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson, “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.'

* 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 J.O.Y.-fully invite others to add their email to the LIFE Group devotions distribution list (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 2:40 (Theology of the Body)

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

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon Him. Luke 2:40

Living Faith snippets: "Thinking of Jesus as a child enlivens His humanity for me and makes it easier for me to continue to follow the man He became. Dear Jesus, fill me with your wisdom and strengthen so that I may follow you." by Aileen O'Donoghue

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to J.O.Y.-fully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15). Suggestions?

* NEW: Jesus taught us how to pray with the Our Father prayer (Luke 11). Teach children to pray...thank God, reconcile with God, ask God, praise God. Pray with your children at every meal and every night before bed...those who pray together, stay together.

Culture War/ProLife News: click LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life

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

* NEW: "NBC rejects Super Bowl ad because it contains pro-life message" (click here to read details, watch the powerful ad, and send NBC your comments). Although it was a great game, I was disappointed in several of the Superbowl commercials. The Superbowl should be protected as a family event, instead it is yet another one-way media event (didn't allow pro-life ad) further perverting the Theology of the Body in our culture war.

* NEW: "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters" (by Dr. Meg Meeker) is a must read for Dad's with daughters in today's culture. It has opened my eyes even further.

Our Prayers: those that pray together stay together

* 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).

* Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, Pres Obama/politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Papa Joe Castle (brain bleed resolution), Maureen Morgan (reconciliation for Sue Peterson and son), Rob Ouellette (Isabella, Reia, Louisa, Kathy & Artiss), Peters family (JP, updates here)

Faith Quote: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"" Isaiah 6:8

For Love of God and Neighbor,

Pat

Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings here. Reflections for readings here.
* 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, 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 J.O.Y.-fully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Psalm 37:4 (In God We Trust)

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

Take delight in the Lord, and He will grant you your heart's request. Psalm 37:4

Living Faith snippets: "I wish I had this psalm printed in fortune cookies for all the friends and students who have told me that all they want is "to be in a relationship." At times in our lives, all of us have felt that dull ache of pain that loneliness brings. What if that ache were actually a gentle reminder sent from God to draw us into a deeper relationship with Him and to nurture a loving relationship with ourselves?" by Claire J. King

Sr. Francelle: Read her devotion titled "March in Washington, DC‏" (click here). Some snippets: "What an inspiration to see over 150,000 people marching for Life in DC, January 22. What struck me most was the number of young people, who are so passionate and showed such courage in defending the rights of the unborn. The young are the future lawmakers and voters. Members of Congress were on fire for victory, as each called upon God's help with sincerity and enthusiasm. The power of Satan is unleashed through the abortion industry. Victory rests with the Lord, but we must do our part. When David was faced with the giant Goliath, people told him, "It's no use, the enemy is too big!" But David with his little slingshot, replied, "He's so big, I can't miss!" We must not be discouraged, but joyfully embrace the challenge of the enemy. In England, it took William Wilberforce 22 years of fighting as a member of Parliament to end the slave trade. As a devout Christian, Wilberforce risked his career, was ridiculed, threatened and made fun of for his unpopular stand to free the slaves. One of the best weapons used in fighting for the unborn is the ultrasound. When parents see their baby in the womb, they find it hard to doubt that it is a human life. Thanks, Mom and Dad, for giving me life even though you couldn't afford me during the depression."

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to J.O.Y.-fully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15). Suggestions?
* NEW: Pray with your family/friends at all meals, even at restaurants.

Culture War/ProLife News: click LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (click here for images).

* NEW: Thanks to Hobby Lobby (read here)!

Our Prayers: those that pray together stay together
* 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).
* Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, Pres Obama/politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Papa Joe Castle (brain bleed resolution), Maureen Morgan (reconciliation for Sue Peterson and son), Rob Ouellette (Isabella, Reia, Louisa, Kathy & Artiss), Peters family (JP, updates here), Cliff Nancarrow (Jay, stroke recovery)

Faith Quote: Sr. Francelle shared this one. "Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will run and not be weary, they will walk and not grow faint." Isaiah 40:31

In God We Trust,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings here. Reflections for readings here.

* 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, 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 J.O.Y.-fully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!