Luke 4:28 (Off the Cliff)

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

"When the people in the synagogue heard this, they were all filled with fury." Luke 4:28 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Gospel, Jesus unfavorably compared the people of His hometown with foreigners in order to call them to repentance. Jesus told the people of Nazareth that, although many Jewish widows needed financial help during a three-and-a-half year famine brought on by the prophet Elijah, none of the Jewish widows were helped. Instead, a foreign widow from Zarephath received Elijah's aid (Lk 4:25-26). Instead of repenting, Christ's people refused the calling and tried to throw Jesus over a cliff (Lk 4:29-30). When the Lord blesses someone else, do you feel neglected by God? Instead of throwing Jesus over the cliff, we should throw away our pride. Pride is keeping us from repenting and experiencing true spiritual growth this Lent. Lord, remove pride from my heart so that I may repent. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Thank God when others are being blessed in ways that you are not. This is a call for you to repent.

Counter-Culture News: LSN, LifeNews, Priests for Life, AFA,Vatican, Project Rachel.

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

Feast Day: St. Fina

Faith Quote: "Repentance lifts a man up. Mourning knocks at heaven's gate. Holy humility opens it." ~ John Climacus

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23% pregnancies).Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa
* Evangelize:Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

Psalm 27:14 (Actively Waiting)

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

"Wait for the Lord, take courage; be stouthearted, wait for the Lord!" Psalm 27:14 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: One thing that I am learning about the 40 days of Lent is patience. Patience is not something that can be acquired overnight. Patience is like a muscle that needs conditioning. A marathoner does not approach the starting line of the race without several months of training. A loving couple does not rush hastily into marriage without building a foundation. Likewise, we should not approach this Easter without training (prayer, penance, fasting). This Lent we are told to "wait for the Lord." Not passively waiting, however, but actively waiting. We should be conditioning ourselves in active preparation for the risen Lord. Lord, give me the courage to condition my heart and the patience to actively wait for You. Amen.

Faith Challenge: How are you actively waiting for the Lord? Pray for patience and courage this Lent.

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

* House passes budget gutting D.C. abortions, separate bill defunding Planned Parenthood

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Spiritual Adoption, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). Add Prayers on our website. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, LIFE Runners, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: St. Agia

Faith Quote: “Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience.” - unknown author

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!

* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa.

* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

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

Psalm 42:3 (Thirst Quencher)

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

"My being thirsts for God, the living God. When can I go and see the face of God?" Psalm 42:3 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: I find it to be a great spiritual exercise during Lent to sacrifice something that I enjoy in order to prevent myself from becoming a slave to my physical desires. I must confess that I am addicted to Mountain Dew, so this Lent I gave up all sodas despite my habitual craving. While sacrificing some physical desires, I have tried focusing on my spiritual needs (prayer and Scripture). For Saint Paul, his addiction was Jesus. Despite his great maturity in Christ, he still longed to know Him (Phil 3:8-11). But what was St. Paul talking about? Didn't he already know Jesus more closely than perhaps anyone else ever will? Of course he did, but the more he knew Jesus, the more he wanted to know Him. The more St. Paul progressed in spiritual strength, the more thirsty for God He became. Lord, only You can satisfy my thirst. I have tasted Your goodness and I thirst for more. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Do you thirst for God? Be encouraged, because your soul-thirst is a sign of soul-growth.

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

* Prosecutors drop case against abortion worker who stuffed baby born alive in bag

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). Add Prayers on our website. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, LIFE Runners, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: Saint Hesychius of Jerusalem

Faith Quote: "O God, I have tasted thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirsty for more. I am painfully conscious of my need of further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still." ~ A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa
* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

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

Isaiah 58:6-7 (The Pretzel)

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

"This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; Sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own." Isaiah 58:6-7 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: Did you know that the pretzel is a food invented for Lent? During a time when the Church asked that the faithful abstain from any foods containing animal derivatives the pretzel was born - it contains no milk, butter, or eggs. The pretzel, then called bracellae ("little arms"), was invented by a monk who rolled the dough to mimic the crossed arms of prayer as a reminder of the reason for the season. We recognize Lent as a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving as prescribed by the Church. Many people will give up or fast from certain things during these 40 days as a way of denying the self. The hunger pains and sacrifices we make during this period first and foremost imitate Christ's example. To fast is to become Christ-like. We fast because it was what Jesus did for 40 days and nights in the desert. It builds discipline, so we may be better equipped to handle future temptation. Jesus faced the temptation in the desert while fasting. Self denial is one of the most powerful and hated prayers of the devil. Why? Because it humbles us and turns our focus outward toward our brothers and sisters all around the world who feel these sorts of pains everyday. Lastly, the hunger we feel reminds us of our need everyday for a steady diet of God. In reality, fasting and almsgiving are just the tip of the iceberg of what the Lord is calling each of us to do. Today's verse from Isaiah speaks of what the Lord is really expecting of us as we prepare for the Risen Lord - releasing, untying, setting free, sharing, sheltering, clothing, and "not turning your back on your own". Dear Lord, where am I bound up? Where do I need to be set free? Give me the grace to step out in faith to share, shelter, and clothe those in need.

Faith Challenge: Have you started your Lenten sacrifice? Consider doing something extra this Lenten season to help those most in need in your community.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Forgiveness "Forgiveness is more than staying away from those who hurt us - it calls us to love our enemies. We're called to be children of our heavenly Father. We are inspired to do this because Jesus did it."

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

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Spiritual Adoption, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). Add Prayers on our website. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, LIFE Runners, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: St. John Ogilvie, Scottish Martyr (d. 1615) "John came of age when neither Catholics nor Protestants were willing to tolerate one another. Turning to Scripture, he found words that enlarged his vision. Although he became a Catholic and died for his faith, he understood the meaning of “small-c catholic,” the wide range of believers who embrace Christianity."

Faith Quote: "Look at His adorable face. Look at His glazed and sunken eyes. Look at His wounds. Look Jesus in the Face. There, you will see how He loves us." ~ St. Therese of Lisieux

Through Christ Our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:2

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!
* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa
* Evangelize:Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

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

Tobit 2:1 ("Better Late Than Never")

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

"On our festival of Pentecost, the feast of Weeks, a fine dinner was prepared for me, and I reclined to eat." Tobit 2:1 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: From One Bread One Body: "Today's first reading mentions the feast of Pentecost. In two days, the season of Lent begins, followed by the fifty-day Easter season, which culminates in Pentecost, the celebration of the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. Possibly your Pentecost celebration last year left something to be desired. Tobit had a similar problem. When Tobit celebrated Pentecost, he lived in exile. Tobit's Pentecost meal was interrupted when he found the body of a strangled, murdered man and hid him in his house so that he could bury him in secret after nightfall (Tb 2:3-4). Under these conditions, Tobit's Pentecost was turned into mourning (Tb 2:6). He ate his food in sorrow and wept (Tb 2:5,7). Then things got worse, as Tobit was blinded in a freak accident (Tb 2:10). Your Pentecost was probably not as bad as Tobit's, but was it very good? Were you filled with the Holy Spirit? Have you led or even tried to lead many others to a saving love for Jesus? If not, start preparing now for a new Pentecost. This Wednesday is the beginning of Lent. Repent in ashes, and fast as Jesus fasted. Renew your baptismal promises as the Church did on Easter Sunday. "Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). Pentecost does not have to be lost; we can do it over. Come, Holy Spirit!"

Faith Challenge: Allow Lent to open your heart more fully to the Holy Spirit.

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

* Former abortionist now head of one of the largest pro-life medical practices in the U.S.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Spiritual Adoption, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). Add Prayers on our website. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, LIFE Runners, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: Saints Perpetua and Felicity. Despite pressure from her own father, St. Perpetua remained firm in her faith. St. Perpetua, St. Felicity and their three companions were joined in martyrdom by the Christian who had converted them.

Faith Quote: “The future starts today, not tomorrow.” ~ Pope John Paul II

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

* Pray/Fast: Prayer connects us with God’s will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. Fast from things that take your eyes off Jesus. Those who pray together stay together, and close to God!

* Save Unborn (& family): Abortion reality (images)…#1 death cause (23% pregnancies). Prov 24:11 & Jer 1:5. “A great poverty that a child must die that you might live as you wish.” Mother Teresa

* Evangelize: Make room for unbelievers & re-evangelization of self, by way of prayer (relationship) and following Christ’s example of love (service/sacrifice/mercy). Matt 28:19.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

Deut 4:9 (Remembering God's Love for Us)

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

However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live ... Deuteronomy 4:9 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Sometimes we have trouble remembering things. In most cases, a little forgetfulness is no big deal. But in extreme cases, such as Alzheimer's, it is a very big deal. To forget how to do simple daily tasks, to forget your family and friends, to forget who you are is truly tragic. But there is another kind of tragic forgetfulness: to forget God's love and care for us, and to forget God's commandments, which call us to love others as God loves us. This memory loss can have disastrous consequences on individuals and on the human community: dishonesty, infidelity, greed, lust, poverty, violence, revenge and isolationism, to name a few. God of love, help me to remember what's really important in life: your unconditional love for me and your command for me to love others as you love me." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda, S.N.D.

Rich's comments: In the Air Force, every organization periodically undergoes an Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI), which assesses the practices of the organization for fulfilling its mission. God has given us our mission: to love one another as God has loved us (John 13:34). Unless this mission is put into practice, the words can be easily forgotten. Lent is our ORI. It is a period of self-assessment to determine if our practices as Christians are in line with God's mission. Be doers of God's Word and not merely listeners (James 1:22); for by doing His Word, you will not forget it, because you will be living in it.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion or using the Facebook "invite people to join" link.
* NEW: What has helped you this Lent to remember God's love for us? How have you shared God's love with others? Comments on the Facebook page can be appreciated by many.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies). Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to expose abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!
* NEW: Unbelievable Coincidence Saves Baby from Abortion in Indianapolis: read how a woman intending on calling Planned Parenthood for an abortion was led without her knowledge by the Holy Spirit to call 40 Days for Life in Indianapolis.
* NEW: A woman and her daughter in Jacksonville, Florida spent about an hour in the parking lot at the abortion center, entering and leaving the business several times. Finally, they drove out of the lot. The young woman rolled down her window and said, "I am not going to have an abortion." "We were there at the critical time," said Trudy in Jacksonville. "We were there at the entrance of the driveway, offering her hope in her desperate situation. She saw strangers praying for her; she saw signs that gave her options; she experienced the ultimate, unconditional love from people whom she may never see again in this world. And her miraculous decision gave us peace and joy this world can not give!" Consider giving an hour of prayer in front of your local abortuary in support of 40 Days for Life (until 28 March, 209 babies saved so far).

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

Faith Quote: "Do this in memory of me." - Jesus Christ (Luke 22:19)

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

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

Psalm 105:18 (Severing Our Shackles)

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

They had weighed him down with fetters, and he was bound with chains... Psalm 105:18 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "The shackles and chains that held Joseph captive when he was enslaved are symbolic of whatever keeps us unfree. What might those shackles be?...Whatever keeps us from being at peace and from accessing our innate goodness - this is what chains us and holds us captive. Lent focuses on breaking these shackles, on freeing us to be people of deep and lasting love." by Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M.

Steve's Thoughts: We all have sin in our life...Paul tells us in the book of Romans, "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God..." (Romans 3:23). We all have chains. The good news is that God has intended for us to live in freedom. Lent is that time of self-denial through acts of prayer, fasting, and alms giving that remind us of our intense need for God in our lives. Life is so fragile and I often take for granted what a gift this short time I have been given. My hunger pains, and other grumblings of my flesh are a sign to me of my dependence on things outside of myself - the air I breath, the food I eat, the shelter over my head. I am reminded in those moments that I need God even more than I need the food my stomach is clamoring for. It is in this way that we place ourselves in small ways at the foot of the cross this Lenten season.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: From Suffering to Surrender

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by fwding a devotion or using the Facebook "invite people to join" link.
* NEW: How are you reminded of your need for God? Consider commenting on the Facebook page.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death in America (23% of pregnancies). Let's courageously share ProLife Truth to expose abortion's unjust peace, rebuilding a Culture of Life for setting the unborn (and parents) free!
* NEW: 40 Days for Life (until 28 March, 188 babies saved so far), "Remember that this is Spiritual Warfare"

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP). Prayer to end abortion.
* NEW: Vicki Kerkvliet (mother's heart problem)

Feast Day: St. John Joseph of the Cross, "Self-denial is never an end in itself but is only a help toward greater charity—as the life of Saint John Joseph shows..."

Faith Quote: "Many would be willing to have afflictions provided that they not be inconvenienced by them." St. Francis De Sales

Through Christ our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:12

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

Luke 6:38 ("The Precious Present"!)

Let's welcome God today with this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Give and gifts will be given to you...shaken down, and overflowing... Luke 6:38 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "It's an odd thing in our culture that the most generous among us are so often those with the least. Maybe they already know that what they have is a gift. They know they're not entitled to it, so they are willing to share with those around them. Affluence seems to cloud this knowledge: The more we have, the more we seem to have a sense of entitlement. "I've worked hard to get where I am" is a sentiment affluent tend to have, as though working hard were enough. But [those] who "made it" had some break, some opportunity that others didn't have or couldn't take advantage of for reasons beyond themselves. No one is truly self-made. Indeed, we have been showered with gifts "shaken down, and overflowing." I pray that all of us can see that everything we have is a gift and give to others [time, talent, treasure]." Aileen O'Donoghue

Pat's nuggets:

* Today's snippets reminded me of the insightful short story "The Precious Present" (God's gift of life...right now).

* Last Sunday, Father Chris drove over from Alton (IL) for dinner and blessed our home...every room (30 sec video)! A blessing sets something aside for God's glory. Fr Chris used holy water that Grace got last year...holy water apparently has an eternity expiration date. If you haven't had your home blessed, consider doing this before Easter.

* A friend recently asked, "why does faith always grow best in the valleys?" My response, "In reading about the Saints, they would actually thank God for their valleys (hardships)...because this is when they turned to God the most and were in turn closest to God. If someone has a weak faith life, they may instead question/curse God in the valleys. The song "Praise You In This Storm" is about trusting God...even in the valleys [John 16:33]."

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

* NEW: Big high five to Christy Hubka for leading 8 friends to the LIFE Group last week, simply by using the "invite people to join" link on Facebook..."Faithbook"!

* NEW: During our Lenten journey, how can we share "the precious present" with others? Facebook comments are welcome...

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

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

* NEW: 40 Days for Life (until 28 March), 105 babies saved so far

* NEW: The following news story is horrifying, Uganda parents murdering their born children to increase their standard of living. Abortion is as horrifying...the murdered children are just younger. Witch-doctors reveal extent of child sacrifice in Uganda.

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

* NEW: Pam McGushin (for Lisa Lackey's father, cancer tests), Carol Nesbitt (mother-in-law Jean had a serious stroke), Pat/Angi Castle (for new God-daughter, Delaney Hansens)

Faith Quotes:

* Carolyn McKissack shared: "Remember...just going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car. Every saint has a past...every sinner has a future!" by G.K. Chesterton

* "Activists on life and family are the cultural Marines of our age. Keep up the good fight and remain Semper Fidelis." by John-Henry Westen (Editor-in-Chief LifeSiteNews)

* "I want my life to honor you, Jesus, by loving how You loved and living how You lived." by Pastor Don Bird

Courage for our Lenten journey,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

Luke 11:29 (Wanting More..)

Let's welcome God today with this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign is given, except the sign of Jonah. Luke 11:29 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "What can you give to to those who already have so much? The people had either seen or heard about the many signs that Jesus performed. And yet, some of them wanted more. Perhaps Jesus thought they should appreciate what they already had." by Fr. Kenneth Grabner, C.S.C.

Steve's Thoughts: Fr. Kenneth's thought, "...some of them wanted more," really got me thinking this morning. I think it's human nature to want to "see with our own eyes". But even those that witnessed great miracles like the multiplication of the loaves and fishes still turned from Jesus when he gave them the hard truth - "you must eat of my body and drink of my blood". They replied, "But how can this be true?" How often do we think like this ourselves? How often does my own heart harden when face to face with my own selfishness? How often do I wish I just had a little "more" so that my life would be more comfortable? Lent is a time to come to grips with our own desires and set them aside, so we can have more of Jesus. Less of the world always means more of Jesus.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion or using our Facebook Group "invite people to join" link.
* NEW: What are you having "less" of this lent, so you can experience "more" of Jesus? Consider commenting on the Facebook Group page.

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP). Prayer to end abortion.
* NEW: Liz Curry (for Linda's chemotherapy, for Kim's cancer surgery recovery), Lisa Riess (healing for Schallert family), Rose Beizer (faith perspective for Adam)

Feast Day: Blessed Luke Beludi

Faith Quote: "Faith grows in the valleys, not on the mountain tops." Fr. Leroy Schik, parochial vicar, Church of Our Lady of Victory (Fergus Falls, MN)

Just one Beggar showing another where the bread is,
Steve
Romans 12:12

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

Isaiah 58:6-7 (fasting for others)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly...Sharing your bread with the hungry...Clothing the naked when you see them...Isaiah 58:6-7 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Religious practices like fasting are meant to support and nourish concrete acts of love. And our sins are somehow healed when we reach out to others in compassion. These words are sobering. They imply that my Lenten practices are not a private affair between God and me. As the old proverb says, Be not simply good; be good for something." by Sr. Melannie Svoboda, S.N.D.

Rich's comments: When we decide to do something for Lent, oftentimes we think about fasting for ourselves (e.g., giving up chocolate, caffeine, video games, Facebook, etc.); usually something that we crave that feeds an addiction. It is good to periodically screen our behaviors for addictions that can serve as idols in our life; however, these Lenten practices only seem to bring us good, and not others. This Lent, try "sharing your bread" (food, money, time, talents) with others. God of love, may my Lenten practices support my endeavors to make this world a better place. Amen.

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion or using our Facebook Group "invite people to join" link.
* NEW: Read about the power of fasting in today's One Bread, One Body devotion.
*NEW: How has fasting affected your spiritual life? Do you have a story to share that witnesses to the power of fasting? Consider commenting on our Facebook Group.

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together...and closer to God (see prayer/fasting footnotes).
* Prayer to end abortion, Peters family (JP), Haitian earthquake victims.

Faith Quote: "Everyone knows that fasting is a different experience from missing your dinner by accident or through poverty. Fasting asserts the will against the appetite- the reward being self-mastery and the danger pride: involuntary hunger subjects appetites and will together to the Divine Will, furnishing an occasion for submission and exposing us to the danger of rebellion." - C.S. Lewis

Through Christ Our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

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

Joel 2: 13-14 (LENT)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

For gracious merciful is [the Lord], slow to anger, rich in kindness, and relenting in punishment. Perhaps he will again relent... Joel 2: 13-14 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "'Perhaps' God will relent: Is it a lack of faith to suggest that God might actually punish us, or, on the other, is it presumptuous to say that God would never punish us, no matter how richly we deserved it?" by Mark Neilsen

Steve's Thoughts: This question posed by our author resonated with me this morning as we begin our 40 day Lenten journey together. Do I presume that God will have no recourse for my sins? Yes, I am forgiven, but as a parent I have learned that even when my children disobey me and I forgive them there are still consequences (punishment) for their poor choices. I do so because I love them. Father, thank you for drawing close to me and disciplining me in your love - for we know that those you love you also reprove. Lord, I have sinned. Set me free to love and serve both you and my neighbor. Amen.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Lent - A time of Joy!

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion or using our Facebook Group "invite people to join" link.
* In preparation for Easter (Lent), let's give something up (fasting) and take something on (service). Consider giving even just one hour of prayer in front of your local abortuary (foot of the Cross) in support of the 40 Days for Life campaign (17 Feb - 28 Mar). What is the value of Lenten sacrifices...and what sacrifices do you have planned? To encourage others, consider commenting on our Facebook Group.

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together...and closer to God (see prayer/fasting footnotes).
* Prayer to end abortion, Peters family (JP), Haitian earthquake victims

Faith Quotes/Media: Check out Matt Kennon's "The Call" (music video) - a wonderful pro-life theme and is currently climbing the charts!

Through Christ our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:12

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

Psalm 119:76 (a push and a prayer!)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (archive, Facebook), based on Living Faith. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:17

Let your kindness comfort me, according to your promise to your servants. Psalm 119:76 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "We emerge from darkness many times. Like that trip through the birth canal, we never make it on our own. We come from mothers and lots of others...self-creation is the myth; everyone needs a push and a prayer to reach the light. We can dig ourselves in deep before we remember to look up...every pit opens onto the sky. We wanted it all, and we failed...but it's surprising how well what is broken catches the light. Groans give way to gratitude." by Jeanne Schuler

Pat's nuggets:

* A push and a prayer...reminds me of parachute jumping when I was a cadet at the Air Force Academy (1990). I wasn't sure if I could get myself to jump out of a perfectly good airplane, so I asked the jumpmaster to give me a push. I provided the prayer(s)!

* Over the weekend, I caught a movie scene where a young woman went to her Mom for support with her unplanned pregnancy. For support, the Mom said her other daughter "had it taken care of and now she has a real baby." This message is echoed throughout our culture...the baby is only "real" if you want the baby. We know the baby is always real and wanted...just ask the line of parents waiting to adopt.

* Last Tues, Oprah visited with nuns and did a nice job presenting their vocation. This show was very insightful for our daughters Paige (9) and Grace (6). Here is a 3 min recap video. For those who know St. Amata Veritas (Betsy Ellenbecker), she gives a humorous answer at 2 min 30 sec.

* Lent starts with Ash Wed this week. Jim Cromer shared this funny/encouraging Lent-prep music video, This Time of Forty Days..."There's a little black spot on your head today!"

Faith Challenges: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion or using our Facebook Group "invite people to join" link. Maurine McManus-Ulmer, Andrew Carroll, Wade Humphreys, Natalie Hourigan, Amanda Barbee, Pastor Jenny Hallenbeck, Nancy Hallenbeck, Dawn Penning-Westlake...welcome!

* NEW: In preparation for Easter (Lent), let's give something up (fasting) and take something on (service). Consider giving even just one hour of prayer in front of your local abortuary (foot of the Cross) in support of the 40 Days for Life campaign (17 Feb - 28 Mar). What is the value of Lenten sacrifices...and what sacrifices do you have planned? To encourage others, consider commenting on our Facebook Group.

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

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together...and closer to God (see prayer/fasting footnotes).
* Prayer to end abortion, Peters family (JP), Haitian earthquake victims, Lynn Bishara (both sons are having tonsils removed on Wed)

* NEW: On this President's Day, let's pray that our Presidents will allow the Constitution to protect all, including the unborn.

Faith Quotes:

* Nancy Hallenbeck shared: "Do Good, Do No Harm, and Stay in Love with the Lord." by Rueben Job

* Chris Shannon shared: "Look back and Thank God. Look forward and Trust God. Look around and Serve God. Look within and Find God!" author unknown

Through Christ our Lord,
Pat

Phil 4:13

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