1 John 3:2 (All Saints' Day)

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

Beloved, we are God's children now; what we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: Today is All Saints' Day, a day to offer thanksgiving to God for the good example and holiness of the saints. Saints are holy people who lead a life in union with God through the grace of Christ and received the reward of eternal life. As Christians, we are united in Christ as a family of faith, but this family is not only defined by those who happen to be alive on earth right this minute. We believe that the saints are alive right now and live forever with God in the "Communion of Saints". Just as we pray for each other (see our prayers below), we also ask our sisters and brothers with God in heaven to pray for us. Father, all powerful and ever-living God, today we rejoice with the holy men and women of every time and place. May their prayers bring us Your forgiveness and love. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Read about the lives of the saints highlighted in the daily devotions. They are wonderful role models in faith who can pray for us.

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

* 14-Year-Old Lia Mills at Pro-Life Conference: "I have learned to embrace conflict"

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Carolyn McKissack (daughter Karen's health), Kathy Schwab (5 yr old Dalton cancer), Pat Castle (Election Prayer for Life).

Feast Day: All Saints

Faith Quote: "To most, even good people, God is a belief. To the saints He is an embrace." - Francis Thompson

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

2 Kings 19:15 (The Shepherd of the Hills)

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

You alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made the heavens and the earth. 2 Kings 19:15 (full readings)

Pat's nuggets: Last night, I finished reading The Shepherd of the Hills (by Wright) to daughters Paige (10) and Grace (7). This is a wonderful book that reflects today's Bible verse and following the Good Shepherd. "During the 20th century, it has been the second most popular book sold in America, after the Holy Bible. Set in the rugged Ozark Mountains during the late 1800's, the complicated lives of simple mountain folk are played out in a beautiful tale of love, hate, and ultimately forgiveness. A timeless story with a moral message that is as relevant today as it was in yesteryear." The book also brings out the importance of periodically taking a retreat where you can minimize distractions to taste and see the goodness of God. The outdoors are a natural retreat. From the book, "there is also healing for the heart and strength for the soul in nature...one gets very close to God."

* "The task and purpose of Christian fatherhood is to make room for God in the lives of one's children." by Fr. Jose Granados

Faith Challenge: Generously encourage others by sharing devotions.
* NEW: Take a moment now to acknowledge God as Creator (Father)...Savior (Son)...Helper (Holy Spirit). May this reality drive your outlook, priorities and decisions today. Reflect on this outdoors in God's gift of nature.

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life. Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies)...expose this unjust peace, setting Unborn/parents free.
* NEW: Caught in the LifeLight: LSN Interviews Lila Rose (defending the Unborn!)

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

* NEW: Lisa Riess (Mother passed away), Carolyn McKissack (Uncle passed away)

Feast Day: St. Thomas More (patron of lawyers)

Faith Quotes:

* "The answer to a crisis pregnancy is to eliminate the crisis, not the child." Jeanie W. French

* "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:13

In Christ, Pat
Phil 4:13

Psalm 32:1 ("Be like...")

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

Happy is he whose fault is taken away, whose sin is covered. Psalm 32:1 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "...preparing to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time...he paced nervously back and forth awaiting his turn. What a relief to see his beaming face when he reentered the body of the church. He shared with us later that, as he poured his heart out in Confession, he felt completely embraced by a loving God. That experience also made possible a breakthrough: Knowing himself so welcomed by God opened this man's heart to love and to forgive himself as well." by Sr. Chris Koellhoffer

Pat nuggets:

* Today's devotion picture is our daughter Paige (9) praying at St. Mary's church in Alton, IL on 10 Oct. Paige asked Fr. Chris if it would be ok to pray at the tabernacle. [I met Fr. Chris the weekend prior at the St. Louis airport when I was heading to the TC Marathon (for ProLife).] Paige's role model is Blessed Mother Teresa, ever since we watched a movie about her. Paige wrote me a note that said, "Be like Mother Teresa"...I have it posted in my home office (aka man cave). Let's encourage our children to consider all vocations and to listen for God's call.

* It is perplexing that the proposed federal healthcare bill would fund abortions...completely counter to healthcare's sacred Hippocratic Oath that promises to "keep them from harm and injustice." 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish' (Blessed Mother Teresa).

Sr. Francelle's devotion: Family "One of the highlights was...when nephews took me down to the abortion clinic, where we prayed the rosary. They were busy, as 14 women went inside - we don't know whether they went through with the abortion or not, but we do know prayers are never wasted or unheard."

Faith Challenges:

* NEW members include Bob Ramsey, Leslee Unruh, Mariah Craycroft, Caroline Metzinger...welcome! Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (>245 of God's children).
* NEW: We received a request to send our Compassion International child a Christmas gift...which reminded me of the LIFE Group Christmas challenge from last year. To imitate the real St. Nicholas in giving gifts to the poor and children, consider rallying your extended family to pool the adult Christmas gift funds for a charity (homeless shelter, troubled teens, crisis pregnancy center, counter-culture news sources below, etc). This sacrifice also simplifies Christmas, allowing more time to experience the true meaning and joy of Christmas!

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP in hospital), Lynn Bishara (for son Alex), Joyce Trunk (friend w/brain cancer)

* NEW: Stephanie Spader (20 wk ultrasound "looks perfect"), Kathy Castle (for the repose of the Soul of Vicki Miller...and for her husband Joe and 3 teenage children)

Feast Day: St. Gerard Majella (patron of expectant mothers)

Faith Quotes:

* Kathy Castle shared: "A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy habitation." Psalm 68:5

* Aaron Ferrie shared: "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12

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 a friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service (Matt 28:19).

Luke 8:21 (family)

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

My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it. Luke 8:21 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "So Jesus' words, rather than offending us, can give us comfort that the periodic alienation we feel from our families is something he has experienced and understands. Let us call on him in our difficult moments to expand our hearts to love what we can't comprehend in our families." by Aileen O'Donoghue

Rich's comments: In the Gospel reading today, Jesus makes clear that His family is not consituted by physical relationship with Him, but by obedience to the word of God. I grew up in a very small family; just my mom, dad, and I. I take pleasure in knowing that God's definition of family goes beyond physical relationships. I have many brothers and sisters in Christ. I am not alone. Please pray for me today as I begin leading a small family of 7 Christians in a faith sharing group who will gather weekly in my home to reflect on our spiritual lives and put our faith into action. (James 1:22)

Faith Challenges:

* NEW: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group family (>225 ProLife Christians).

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, 40 Days for Life (begins 23 Sep), American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to create social tension for exposing abortion's unjust peace...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16) and setting the unborn free!

* NEW: Please read letter from Charmaine Yoest, President and CEO of Americans United for Life Action (AULA), addressing the concerns about abortion in health care. STAY INFORMED!

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas in footnote below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP in hospital), Lynn Bishara (for son Alex), Kay Castle (special intentions), Pat Castle (for cousin Michael).

* NEW: Kathy Castle (friend's husband Matt's kidney transplant), Stephanie Spader (for peace/healthy pregnancy)

Faith Quote: "As the family goes, so goes the nation and so goes the whole world in which we live." - Pope John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

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

Psalm 81:8 (God's gentle thunder)

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

In distress you called, and I rescued you; Unseen, I spoke to you in thunder. Psalm 81:8

Living Faith snippets: "As I look back over the years, things I counted on disappeared; children grew up and moved out, through death and unforeseen circumstances relationships and work opportunities I cherished ended. I protested, sometimes very loudly but eventually I become aware that the very things I resisted thrust me into new depths of prayer, new images of God and hopefully new levels of compassion and understanding - all things I have ardently prayed for through the years." by Terri Mifek

Sr. Francelle devotion: St. Joseph

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: Let's encourage someone today.

Culture of Life (News): LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images)...#1 cause of death in America. Let's share ProLife Truth (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16)!
* NOW (25 Feb-5 Apr): Support the 40 Days for Life campaign by praying by an abortion mill for one hour (Matt 26:40)...let's defend the voiceless unborn!

* NEW: Stephanie Kemp shared, "There is a 7 day Jericho March with adoration at Planned Parenthood (1330 West Colorado Ave, C. Springs). The Jericho March will be held from Sun, March 22 through Sat, March 28th at 3 p.m. each day. Fr. Bill Carmody will lead the march, carrying the Blessed Sacrament each day. After we walk around the entire block, there will be adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for the remainder of the hour. Joshua 6: 3-5"

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, jobs, Paul Cote (sister Christine with cancer), John Lown (Allan Hillberg in ICU), Sharmane Calvin (Dr. Earl passed away/his family)

* NEW: Kathy Castle (16 cars pulled into Planned Parenthood with young girls), Carla Neal (Katelyn, Mollie, Pam Bert, Edna, Maureen, Cathy, Robin and their families)

Faith Quote: "If you teach your daughter to be good rather than simply happy, she will become both. Humility...can be taught only by example." Meg Meeker ("Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters")

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

Hebrews 10:24 (faith, family, friends)

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

We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works. Hebrews 10:24

Living Faith snippets: "Looking back on my life and the many good and true friendships I have had, I realize that the very best and lasting relationships have been with those individuals who have shared my own beliefs in Christ and the power of faith. They have been willing and brave enough to encourage me to a life filled with love and good works by their words and their actions. I hope that I have been able to do the same for them." by Steve Givens

Rich's comments: I think back to all of the friends I have made in the past at my different Air Force assignments, and I would have to agree that my strongest friendships have been with those who I share a faith in Jesus Christ. I believe it is, because with these people I can be myself. I can be the person who God designed me to be. They are more than just friends; they are my family, brothers and sisters in Christ. They encourage me, they grieve with me, they worship with me, and they challenge me to be closer to Christ. Lord, give me the strength and courage to bring others closer to You. Amen.

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: Reach out to someone today, ask them how they are doing, and then just listen. Show them you care. This is how Pat first approached me; he just listened and let me talk.

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).

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 (Donna, Eddie, Jack, Dottie, Maureen and Maggie), Stephanie Spader (invited us to fast today for her nephew JP, updates here, fasting ideas below), Cliff Nancarrow (friend Jay had stroke)

Faith Quote: "Blessed are they who have the gift of making friends, for it is one of God's greatest gifts." by Thomas Hughes

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* 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)!

Luke 1:10-12 (prepare for the Lord...)

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

Then...the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the alter of incense. Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. Luke 1:10-12

Living Faith snippets: "There's much to ponder in the story of John the Baptist's conception and birth. We're moved to consider Zechariah's faith, and our own, in the presence of God and His ways." by Amy Welborn

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "Love‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "Dearest Ones, For me, the Christmas Season is summed up in one word, LOVE! Love is self-sacrificing, which means it always costs something. It hurts to put others first. Love requires us to believe in people even though they may fail us many times. Because we love people, we don't say some of the things we want to say - we refrain from pointing out their faults. We can't do this alone for love comes from God. But God gives us the strength and the courage to love the unloveable. "Above all, have an intense love for one another. Love covers a multitude of sins. A new commandment I give to you that you love one another just as I have loved you." These are the farewell words of Jesus to his best friends. Wrap yourself around somebody this Christmas, someone needs your Love!"

God sightings: Share ways we have encountered God in our lives (miracles!).

* Beth O'Connor shared: "My 7 yr old son, Tom, is in 2nd grade at our parish school. While preparing for First Reconciliation, his teacher taught them to give a blessing by making a cross on the person's forehead with a thumb and saying, "[Name], may God bless you now and always." He now has to give each of us one every night and will even bless the phone if one of us is not home at bedtime. Now, my almost 2 year old daughter, Catherine, also wants to be part of it - a full hand to the head and saying, "Blesssssssssss". They are really God to me in these moments of their child-like faith."

* "Praise and thanksgiving: You open yourself up to hearing from God when you praise Him for who He is and what He has done, and thank Him for it. Praise and thanksgiving invite God's presence into your life. Choose to praise and thank God no matter what your current circumstances. Acknowledging that He is in control in all situations will draw you closer to Him and help you recognize Him at work." author unknown

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Kathy Ayers brain surgery, Mike Castle (Rachelle/Isaac, eye infection), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Carolyn McKissack (Bailee with Crohn's), Joe Levisky (medical issues), Rob Ouellette (St. Patrick's prayer list), Pat Castle (Mom's sinus infection), Rich Reich (Granny's health problems), Liz Curry (friend Bill)

Faith Quote: Steph Spader shared this quote. "There are very few people who realize what God would make of them if they abandoned themselves into his hands, and let themselves be formed by his grace." St Ignatius

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

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

Matthew 15:30 (Volition)

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

They placed them at His feet, and He cured them. Matthew 15:30

Living Faith snippets: "Use this poignant image for your prayers today. You may wish to lay before the feet of Jesus your excessive need to control or perhaps some form of resentment...an unhealthy busyness that threatens your spiritual and physical well-being or maybe an addictive behavior from which you would like to be free. Place before the feet of Jesus all that prevents you from being the person God created you to be." by Sr. Macrina Wiederkehr

Pat nuggets: In visiting with the homebound in nursing homes, I discovered that most of the elderly residents do not have regular visitors. Consider visiting a nearby nursing home for just one hour during Advent. This is a powerful example of love (service/sacrifice) for children, and everyone is richly blessed by the experience.

* The Colorado Springs LIFE Devotions Group members (LIFEr's) are invited to meet at the Liberty Heights nursing home (near New Life church) from 6:30-7:30 PM, Thurs, 11 Dec (for caroling and visiting with the residents). Please let me know if you plan to attend.

Jesus' Christmas (birthday) List: This is how we give Jesus a birthday present..."whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt 25:40). The true meaning of Christmas is to share our gifts (time, talent, treasure) with those lacking in "daily bread" and love. Who is in needs of our Christmas gifts?

* NEW: Life Network (http://www.elifenetwork.com/)

* NEW: Chad Livingston shared..."The street church is in need of back packs to hand out to the homeless; the bigger the better."

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

* NEW: Chad Livingston shared, "Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful." Col 3:12-15

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* NEW: Angi Castle shared this video about how some autistic people communicate http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnylM1hI2jc. There is a strong ProLife message that begins at ~3 min into the 8 min video. Special needs people are God's children who deserve to live and be loved! In many ways, we all have special needs and handicaps...
* NEW: Jean Noon shared this about Jesus..."But of His own volition He died because of love to do God’s will." Volition is defined as a conscious choice or decision. Check out the powerful 15 min ProLife movie "Volition" and article at http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/nov/08112501.html. An article snippet: "Volition places its central character in the historical contexts of...the greatest human rights violations in history: the holocaust, slavery, and abortion."

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Joe Castle (medical concerns), Matt Kayser (family of Jesse Alne), Rob Ouellette (Jeff, Arleen, Ramona, Pat)
* NEW: Mike Castle (eye infection)

* Wed night is pray with your family night.
* 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).

Feast Day (St. Francis Xavier): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=423

Faith quote: "We are called not to be successful in the conversion of others or of society- for that is in God's hands [1 Cor 3:6-9]. Rather, we are called to be faithful. God is at work in the world because He seeks every human heart. Knowing this makes even great trials and disappointments worth bearing." by Daniel Avila (Columbia magazine)

Through Christ for ProLife,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

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

Luke 21:5-6 (Boycott Black Friday)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

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

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

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

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

Luke 11:17 (consistently faithful)

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

But [Jesus] knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house." Luke 11:17

Living Faith snippets: "The basic thrust of Jesus' words is to caution us regarding the importance of trying to be something few of us are - consistent. Don't say one thing and do another...as we often do. Take your Christian faith seriously enough that it makes you look different." by Mitch Finley

Pat nuggets:

* Regarding today's verse, the designated "pray with your family Wed night" is aimed at preventing our own homes (families) from being divided...a family that prays together, stays together (even if geographically separated). Regarding the Living Faith snippets, people often say to me, "I really like your friend Robert Cox, there is something different about him." Correct, he is living a consistently faithful life for Christ!

* "McDonald's pledges neutrality" http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=281548. A few snippets: "The American Family Association (AFA) is ending its boycott of McDonald's. McDonald's has pledged to remain neutral in the culture war surrounding homosexual marriage." Steve Castle shared, "Bottom line – boycotts work! Nothing makes corporate America stand up and listen like our pocket books (and bad press). I know there were several opportunities my family had to eat at McDonald's during this span and we made other choices because of their affiliation." I feel a Big Mac attack coming on!

* During the 40 Days for Life and the presidential campaign, it is easy to lose hope regarding the fate of the defenseless unborn (abortion). Check out the 40 Days for Life website (below) for encouragement and hope because everyday people are choosing God...and His children (adults and babies) are being saved. Remember this story: Thousands of starfish washed up on the beach, and a little boy was throwing them back into the ocean, one by one. A jogger passing by told the little boy that his efforts did not matter because he could not save them all. The little boy paused, threw another one in the ocean, and said, "it mattered to this one." It sure matters to those babies saved (and their grandchildren) that will get to enjoy life (laughter, meals, special times, etc)...and experience the embrace of their mothers, fathers, and grandparents (or adopted ones).

* At 8 AM, Sun, 12 Oct, the LIFE Runner's will race the Chicago Marathon for the protection of the defenseless unborn. The team of 12 LIFE devotions group members (John, Tracy, Steve, Chad, Bill, Rich, Courtney, Angi, Pat, Scott, Ben, Doug) have raised nearly $4,000 for ProLife awareness.

Sr. Francelle devotion: Read her devotion titled "Are you doing the work God has called you to do?‏" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "Wouldn't it be a different world if each morning everyone surrendered their lives to God? Maybe on the way to work, or sometime during the day, they simply asked God to take control of their day. Jesus longs to receive the hurts and worries of all His children. He longs to bandage them up with hope and joy. HOPE is what I feel at the hospital, it's what keeps all of us going. In the end, I think that's our purpose in life, to give each other hope."

40 Days for Life campaign (24 Sep to 2 Nov): Campaigns in 179 cities in 47 states (24/7 for 40 days). Please sign up to pray an hour in front your local abortion mill.
* Updates from the national director, David Bereit, at http://www.40daysforlife.com/. ProLife news: http://www.lifenews.com/

Our Prayers: Abortion's end, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer cure, prisoners, leaders integrity, loss of loved ones, lack of faith

* NEW: Kay Castle (her friend Chris Taylor is recovering from surgery)

* NEW: Mark Engesser motivated this prayer. Let us pray that our pastors will have the courage to address abortion (killing of innocent life) as the ultimate "foot of the cross" election issue. (Without life, the other issues don't matter...and all other issues are impacted by our respect of life.)

Faith Quotes: Sean Dalton shared this acronym (ARRR) to stay connected with God in prayer: "Acknowledge God, Recognize God, Receive God, Respond to God." Dan Lykins shared, "I think daily is the key word in this verse. So often we want to get our monthly or weekly allotment and not have to visit the source on a daily basis."

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* 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. Prayer to End Abortion.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for non-believers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 6:32 (love begins at home)

* 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 (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

For if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Luke 6:32

Living Faith snippets: "We can easily think of people who don't love us: strangers on the street; people we work with; those we encounter briefly and casually in the course of our day; neighbors next door or across the street; and, most tellingly, the people with whom we share a home and sometimes don't act like they love us, even spouses and children. Jesus makes it plain that the only place you can find him is in the real world among all those people who don't actually qualify as enemies but who, we know darn well, do not love us." by Mitch Finley

Rich's comments: Mother Teresa said in her Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech in 1979, "Love begins at home." Please read Mother Teresa's entire speech at http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/social_justice/sj0004.html. I believe that you don't have to travel far to serve God's mission. It begins in your very own home. What if everyone in the world today decided to go home and love their family, and then went to their neighbors to share God's love? I like to imagine that it would be similar to a rippling effect of droplets on the surface of water that would spread across the world; an all-consuming, shockwave of love. It has to begin with our families though; the primary unit of our society. Lord, help us to love as You love us. Amen.

ProLife news: http://www.lifenews.com/.

* 40 Days for Life campaign (24 Sep to 2 Nov): Sign up for updates at http://www.40daysforlife.com/about.cfm.

Our Prayers: Abortion, chastity, our enemies/our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer, prisoners, integrity of our leaders, Robert Cox (discerning his career path), Mike Castle (for grandson Isaac and his caregivers), strength to live the virtue of chastity

Faith Quote: "I want you to find the poor here, right in your own home first. And begin love there. Be that good news to your own people." by Mother Teresa

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” "If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him."
* 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. Prayer to End Abortion. Ask Blessed Margaret of Castello for her prayers to end abortion.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for non-believers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

Luke 6:21 (Resurrection)

* 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 (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Blessed are you who are now hungry, for you will be satisfied. Luke 6:21

Living Faith snippets: "When you forgive your enemy, when you feed the hungry, when you defend the weak [the unborn], you believe in the resurrection. When you wake at peace in the morning, when you sing to the rising sun, when you go to work with joy, you believe in the resurrection." by Carlo Carretto ("Essential Writings")

Pat nuggets:

* While searching for info on marriage as a holy institution from God, I found a thorough and surprisingly concise article from the Vatican titled, "Considerations regarding proposals to give legal recognition to unions between homosexual persons." The intro defends the sanctity of marriage with scripture. Here are a few snippets on our call to live the virtue of chastity, love homosexuals to the truth, and to protect the sanctity of marriage: "...men and women with homosexual tendencies “must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided”.(7) They are called, like other Christians, to live the virtue of chastity.(8) The homosexual inclination is however “objectively disordered”(9) and homosexual practices are “sins gravely contrary to chastity”.(10) ...respect for homosexual persons cannot lead in any way to approval of homosexual behaviour or to legal recognition of homosexual unions. The common good requires that laws recognize, promote and protect marriage as the basis of the family, the primary unit of society." http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20030731_homosexual-unions_en.html

ProLife news: http://www.lifenews.com/.
* 40 Days for Life campaign (24 Sep to 2 Nov): Sign up for updates at http://www.40daysforlife.com/about.cfm.

* Cleta Jasper shared: "Colorado will have Amendment 48 on the ballot this November...called the “Personhood Amendment.” [If passed]...in the state constitution, "the terms ‘person’ or ‘persons’ shall include any human being from the moment of fertilization.” Passage of this amendment will be fought tooth-and-nail by the anti-life forces – predominately Planned Parenthood. (They spent – as I understand it – approximately $10 million in opposition to the Marriage Amendment two years ago.) We are anticipating that they will spend at least that much money this next month or so. Colorado for Equal Rights does NOT have that kind of money to counter such television ads. What I’m asking of you is this! Prayer, prayer & more prayer – along with fasting as you are able…for a miracle! Thank you so much & may God bless you abundantly! Please check out http://www.personhoodcolorado.com/."

Our Prayers: Abortion, chastity, our enemies/our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer, prisoners, integrity of our leaders, Robert Cox (discerning his career path), Mike Castle (for grandson Isaac and his caregivers), strength to live the virtue of chastity

Faith Quote: "It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish" Blessed Mother Teresa.

Through Christ Our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

* 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. Prayer to End Abortion. Ask Blessed Margaret of Castello for her prayers to end abortion.

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

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

Rom 8:28 (for those who love God)

* 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 (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

We know that all things work for good for those who love God... Rom 8:28

Living Faith snippets: "My mother had a great devotion to Mary...but most of all, her devotion consisted in imitating Mary's faith. Many times when circumstances were painful or confusing, I heard my mother say, "The good Lord knows what He's doing." My mother trusted that all things work for good." by Sr. Melanie Svoboda

Pat nuggets:

* Read up on the Theology of the Body (http://www.theologyofthebody.com/) to help yourself and others prevent serious consequences from our culture's attack on sexuality. Focus on the Family is hosting a conference in C. Springs on 25 Oct titled, "Homosexuality - Proclaiming the truth with love." Here are a few snippets from the brochure: "Homosexuality is one of the most difficult issues many individuals, families and churches face today. Popular culture tells us it's simply an alternative way to live. Mainstream media promotes that it's genetic and unchangeable. And the pro-gay movement seeks to politicize the education system, alter biblical truth regarding sexual behavior and redefine the meaning of marriage and family. Some Christians want to know how to stand faithfully in their biblical beliefs about human sexuality while also reaching out lovingly to those affected by homosexuality."

* "The president of a pro-family values mutual fund company...[screens] companies whose revenues or actions support pornography, abortion, anti-family entertainment, or promotion of non-married lifestyles. But Art Ally, president of the investment company, says his group normally does not spotlight or publish notices on businesses they screen out. In this case, however, he says the Timothy Plan could not stay silent when McDonald's went "over the edge." "McDonald's actually has been on our screen or prohibited list since 1999 -- so this is nothing new," says Ally. "What is new is the aggressive approach that they're moving to, in promoting and supporting the homosexual agenda." The fast-food giant's $20,000 donation to the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce for a seat on its board of directors, and labeling of those who oppose the homosexual agenda as "haters" -- both of which Ally says marked an extreme step up from sponsorship of TV programs and movies with anti-family and pornographic entertainment. Those actions, coupled with offering its employees transgender health benefits, have kept McDonald's out of Timothy Plan investments." http://www.onenewsnow.com/Business/Default.aspx?id=230550. American Family Association shared: "In January, McDonald’s paid for 56 employees to attend the “Pioneer Summit” in San Diego. The purpose of the meeting was to develop a plan to promote the gay agenda within the company (including homosexual marriage). AFA has asked McDonald’s to remain neutral in the culture battle. McDonald’s has refused. Sign the online Boycott McDonald’s petition."

ProLife news: http://www.lifenews.com/.
* 40 Days for Life campaign (24 Sep to 2 Nov): Sign up for updates at http://www.40daysforlife.com/about.cfm.

Our Prayers: Abortion, chastity, our enemies/our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer, prisoners, integrity of our leaders, Robert Cox (discerning his career path), Mike Castle (for grandson Isaac and his caregivers)

* Let's pray for strength to remain chaste in our sexuality and for those struggling with difficult sexual sins like homosexuality.

Feast Day (The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blessed_Virgin_Mary

Through Christ Our Lord,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

* 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. Prayer to End Abortion. Ask Blessed Margaret of Castello for her prayers to end abortion.

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

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

Psalm 107:9 (our ravenous hearts)

* 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 (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Because He satisfied the longing soul and filled the hungry soul with good things. Psalm 107:9

Living Faith snippets: "Later, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus would describe those who hunger as "blessed." Rather than recognizing our need for spiritual sustenance, we may dismiss our spiritual hunger as boredom. Yet our ravenous hearts will remain restless until they find the Divine presence. That same presence yearningly awaits the return of our hearts." by Phillis Harris-Brooks

Sr. Francelle devotion: Read her wonderful devotion about the virtue of patience at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. Here is the intro..."Everyone admires a patient person and I think everyone wants to be more patient because it makes life a lot happier. In fact, I wonder if patience is not the most needed of all the virtues. I'd like to share some thoughts about patience, as I have been studying it in the scriptures. Patience is a very hard thing, especially in our culture, where we want everything instantly. "In your patience you shall win your souls." (Luke 21:19)"...

Pat nuggets:
* Evangelization: I recently attended training for a program that is geared to feed the "ravenous hearts" of the 250,000 Catholic Christians in the military between the ages of 18 and 28. I was sad to learn that only 5% of this group is "actively" living their faith. The trainer highlighted that if only 3 of the 10 people in a small group show up, this is a 300% success not a 70% failure. In 1992 at the first Catholics in Action (CIA) young adults group meeting at St. Patrick's parish in C. Springs, I only had two Christians attend, Robert Cox and Dan Szarke...but from that CIA group, God grew the LIFE devotions group (almost 150 Christians)!

* Sanctity of Marriage: "Most states don't recognize same-sex "marriage" -- but now Hallmark does. The nation's largest greeting card company is rolling out homosexual wedding cards -- featuring two tuxedos, overlapping hearts or intertwined flowers, with best wishes inside. "Two hearts. One promise," one says." http://www.onenewsnow.com/Business/Default.aspx?id=223186. See faith quote below.

ProLife news: http://www.lifenews.com/.

Our Prayers: Abortion, chastity, our enemies/our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer, prisoners

Faith Quote: "Proclaim boldly the arguments from faith and reason in favor of the institution of marriage, understood as a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, open to the transmission of life. This message should resonate with people today, because it is essentially an unconditional and unreserved "yes" to life, a "yes" to love, and a "yes" to the aspirations at the heart of our common humanity, as we strive to fulfill our deep yearning for intimacy with others and with the Lord." Pope Benedict (Apr visit to USA)

Through Christ Our Lord,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

* 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. Prayer to End Abortion. Ask Blessed Margaret of Castello for her prayers to end abortion.

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

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

Psalm 69:5 (love sinners & hate our sin)

* 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 (livingfaith.com). All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Those outnumber the hairs of my head who hate me without cause. Too many for my strength are they who wrongfully are my enemies. Must I restore what I did not steal? Psalm 69:5

Living Faith snippets: "The psalmist asks a poignant question for all allies who seek to right injustice: "Must I restore what I did not steal?" For a true ally, the answer is Yes." by Claire J. King

Sr. Jeanette devotion: To read her devotion titled, "Sacrifice of Praise", go to sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com.

Pat nuggets:
* Regarding this week's comments on the sin of homosexuality, let's always love the sinner (all of us) and not banish...but not make it easier for sin (support it) and not normalize sin ("bittersweet" accountability). Joe Castle commented that we judge the sin, not the sinner (God judges the heart). Chad Livingston commented that "love the sinner, hate the sin" should be "love the sinner, hate our sin." Chad also reinforced the importance of relationship with sinners (all of us) in order for others to see Jesus working in us. People don't care how much we know until they know how much we care...and they will know we are Christians by our love. It was suggested that homosexuals could live in chastity within the Sacrament of Marriage. Although homosexually orientated people could be chaste roommates, the Sacrament of Marriage is a holy institution between a man and woman for building a family (as defined by God). Furthermore, homosexual marriage would further normalize this sin to the level of an "alternative lifestyle." Read more about recent CA decisions about homosexual marriage http://www2.focusonthefamily.com/docstudy/newsletters/A000001176.cfm

* Read about a town that paid $1 million to remove a strip club http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25955847/?GT1=43001.

ProLife news: http://www.lifenews.com/.
* Read about how a couple fought for the life of their twins, requiring surgery in the womb at 22 weeks. "During the surgery, doctors entered the amniotic sack using a kind of miniature "telescope." Occasionally, to their surprise, a fetus will actually grab on to the scope in the middle of the procedure." http://abcnews.go.com/WN/Story?id=5471351&page=1

* Read about Irena Sendler (nominated for Nobel Peace Prize) who during WWII worked in the Warsaw Ghetto, as a Plumbing/Sewer specialist...and smuggled out and saved 2500 Jewish kids/infants. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irena_Sendler

Feast Day (St. Alphonsus Liguori): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alphonsus_Liguori

Our Prayers: Abortion, chastity, our enemies/our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer, prisoners
* New: Chad Livingston (friend Zak recovering from back surgery), Liz Curry (Drew, 2 yr old, recovering from surgery to remove a kidney tumor), Rob Ouellette (Fred diagnosed with recurrence of a very serious illness), Pat Castle (thanksgiving for Grandma recovering from pneumonia)

Through Christ Our Lord,
Pat
Phil 4:13

* Today's Bible readings at www.usccb.org/nab/today.shtml. Reflection on readings at http://www.daily-meditations.org/index2.html
* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” "If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him."
* 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. Prayer to End Abortion. Ask Blessed Margaret of Castello for her prayers to end abortion.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for non-believers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's joyfully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!