1 Cor 9:24 (Run to Win) by Dr. Allen Unruh

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

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." 1 Cor 9:24

Allen's Reflections: The apostle Paul compared life to a race. Are you determined to endure to the end – to cross the finish line of life – and to never quit? Matt 24:13. This commands us to take charge of our lives. By their fruits ye shall know them. And what are the fruits of the Spirit? Gal 5:22-23. "They are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control." Can one person make a difference? In 1768, a 45 year old Scottish preacher took charge of a tiny, poor, rural school for teenage boys. He found the boys to be unprepared and unruly, and the conditions of the school’s only building to be deplorable. Because there were so few students, the preacher had to do all of the teaching himself until he was able to convince some tutors to help him. Yet, in faithfully mentoring his few charges, this preacher started down a path that changed the world. The preacher’s name is John Witherspoon. The small, dilapidated school he took charge of is now Princeton University. And what happened to the 450 students Witherspoon trained during his 26 years [marathon] as college president forms one of the most astounding facts in American history: 114 ministers, 49 U.S. Representatives, 28 U.S. Senators, 26 state judges, 17 members of their state constitutional conventions, 14 delegates to the state conventions that ratified the Constitution, 12 members of the Continental Congress, 8 U.S. district judges, 5 U.S. Supreme Court Justices, 3 Attorneys Generals, 1 Secretary of State, 1 Vice President, and 1 President (James Madison). It’s better to light one candle than curse the darkness. A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. We are commanded to be salt and light (Matt 5:13-16), not sugar. Too many Christians need the faith of a mountain to move a mustard seed. When in reality, when you read what one man did who had the courage of his convictions, you realize what you believe really makes a difference. Everything you think, say and do makes a difference in the lives of the people you meet and mentor. Decide now to make your mark. As Helen Keller said, "Life is either a daring adventure or it’s nothing." You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Phil 4:13.

* Dr. Allen Unruh is married to Leslee, and they have five grown children. Allen and Leslee co-founded the awesome Sioux Falls Alpha Center 26 years ago (ProLife 'marathoners'), saving hundreds of babies (and families)!

Faith Challenge: Everything you think, say and do makes a difference in the lives of the people you meet and mentor. Decide now to make your mark...[for ProLife!].

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

* Irish and Italian Women Rejecting Abortion: Stats.

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), Jamie Simpson (special intention), Rob Rysavy (Adam Rogers mission trip to Thailand), Angi Castle (for Nicole's cancer)

Feast Day: St. Leo the Great.

Faith Quote: "The bottom line: Only what's done for Christ will last." ~ Dr. Allen Unruh

Through Christ Our Lord,

Allen

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).

Wisdom 13:7 (curbing the chatter)

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

For they search busily among his works, but are distracted by what they see, because the things seen are fair. Wisdom 13:7 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Television, radio, the Internet, iPods and cell phones can distract us from, rather than draw our attention to, God. A critical mass of "chatter" can suffocate our spiritual life. If the fruit of silence is prayer and prayer is the life-breath of our soul, we need to turn down the music. Behind his works, God is waiting to be noticed." Rebecca Sande

Pat's nuggets:

* Pastor Don Bird shared, "One of the women who was killed at Fort Hood (Private Francesca Valez) was 3 months pregnant. We hear reports that 13 people were killed and 29 wounded. In my mind and heart I change that number to 14 killed and 29 wounded. While that precious life could not be seen by the outside world, it is still counted, because the baby was known by our God who created him/her. When we hear others say that 13 were tragically killed, we can correct them with love and grace that the true number is 14. This can open up opportunity for conversation around this issue of LIFE."

* Regarding the Stupak amendment that passed for the House health care bill (prevents abortion funding), Planned Parenthood said, "We will work with [pro-abortion Congress] members to rectify this travesty." They consider not being able to murder the unborn a "travesty," highlighting the perversion, lies, and deceit of the pro-abortion side. The health care debate is raising abortion to the forefront of national conscience...what I expected to happen during the Presidential election. Let's pray that the momentum is shifting to bring down this Wall (Roe), fully exposing the Truth, and bringing freedom to the unborn (and their parents).

* Jerry Klazura shared today's image, which "started as a photograph of a bust of St. Francis of Assisi...the artist added hair and the red garment...it became Jesus!" Reminds me of a talk I heard, "following Jesus in the footprints of St. Francis." To order this print, email Rick at rick3949@aol.com.

Faith Challenges: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (~250 of God's children). Welcome to Amy Moon!
* NEW: "Lord, today I will make an effort to disconnect from whatever steals my attention from you. Fill that space with your consoling presence." Rebecca Sande

Sr. Francelle's devotion: Mary, Our Mother‏

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 (and parents) free!
* NEW: Check the Facebook LIFE Group page for several highlighted articles.

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), Joe Hourigan (for brother Mike), Doug Young (special intention), Pat Castle (health care reform bill), Joe Levisky (daughter's pregnancy), Stephanie Spader (daughter Rebekah in ICU), Brenda Alvine (father in ICU), Aaron Ferrie (special intention)

Feast Day: St. Frances Xavier Cabrini

Faith Quote: "May we never forget that true freedom does not exist apart from Christ. May we fully commit our lives to telling others about the freedom that is found in Christ. May we risk our reputations, our emotions, our relationships, our treasures, and our lives so that others may live in true freedom. LET FREEDOM RING!" Pastor Don Bird

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).

Romans 15:18 (God delivers...contact senators/reps today!)

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

For I will not dare to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me... Romans 15:18 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "I was diagnosed with a rare blood disease. This whole experience was about so much more than words like disease and chemotherapy. It was about faith, hope and healing. It was about living a life of faith even when your back is against the wall. It was about what Christ has accomplished and would continue to accomplish through me. Lord, help me meet the difficulties in my life with the strength and grace that comes from you alone." Steve Givens

Pat's nuggets: see urgent Faith Challenge below

* While searching in the Combined Federal Campaign catalog for a ProLife charity, I noticed this approved charity: "Abortion Access Project: seeking to create and support innovative responses to gaps in abortion access." This life/death struggle is a real spiritual battle. "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." Luke 1:41

Sr. Francelle's devotion: Jealousy, the Green-eyed Monster‏

Faith Challenges: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (~250 of God's children).
* NEW: As the LIFE Group, we encourage each other to have authentic Christian lives that include defending the voiceless/innocent unborn. Let's never stop working to bring victory over the greatest injustice of our time (abortion). Tomorrow, Congress will likely vote on the health care reform bill, and millions of children's lives are at stake with this largest public funding of abortion since Roe vs. Wade. Please call (guidance) and email (already setup) your representative & senators today...beg them to not support this unjust health care reform bill that will kill children and injure parents. See first Faith Quote below.

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!

* NEW: 'Planned Parenthood Pushes Abortion for Profit': Ex-Abortion Facility Director Says, "They really wanted to increase the number of abortions so that they could increase their income."

* NEW: On our Facebook LIFE Group page, Steve posted three short videos that shed Truth on the health care reform bill (Congress likely votes tomorrow).

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), Joe Hourigan (for brother Mike), Doug Young (special intention), Beth O'Connor (father in law passed away Tues)

* NEW: victims/families in the Ft. Hood shooting, health care reform bill

Faith Quotes:

* "To live without faith, without a patrimony to defend, without a steady struggle for truth, that is not living, but existing.” Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

* "Live as though heaven is on earth!"

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, 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 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).

Matthew 1:20 (listening to God's whispers)

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

Behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. Matthew 1:20

Living Faith snippets: "At one point, in calling the young people to involve God in their life choices, [Pope Benedict] simply asked, "What is God whispering to you?" What an appropriate place to plant such a seed--a place named after St. Joseph who overcame fear and confusion because he responded in faith to the whisperings of God through a dream." by Amy Welborn

Rich's comments: Joseph and Mary are a model for those who find themselves overcome with fear and confusion over a so-called "unplanned pregnancy." They both listened to God whispering to them and trusted God that although the pregnancy was not in their plans, it was always a part of God's plan. Mary and Joseph were very prayerful, God-fearing people, who were in touch with God, and could recognize when God was speaking to them. Today, women involved in a crisis pregnancy hear many voices; some of evil and some from God. Lord, give us the courage to amplify Your voice so that others may hear you too. Amen.

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

* NEW: Research the Pro-Life cause in your state legislature. Find out what bills need your support and let your politicians hear your voice.

Stations of the Cross (#10): Jesus clothes are taken away.

Culture War/ProLife 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!

Pro-Life Conference tidbits: Florida State Representative Charles Van Zant spoke at the Florida Students for Life Conference. He shared an amazing story about how he came into office. He worked as an architect for a Florida company responsible for projects such as Disney World's underground tunnels and the Tampa International Airport. Rep. Van Zant retired shortly after listening to God whisper to him that he had needs for him. Rep. Van Zant then became involved in missionary work in which he utilized his architect skills to construct schools and hospitals in third world countries. His call to run for Florida State Representative in the 2008 elections was also a result of him listening to God's voice. God told him that he needed him to fight abortion in the political arena. Rep. Van Zant is a supporter of the Ultrasound Bill which would require pregnant women to have an ultrasound. It would also require doctors to allow the woman to view the live ultrasound images unless she's a victim of rape, incest or human trafficking. Under the bill, a woman could decline seeing the ultrasound image by signing a form. If this bill passes, it would provide women with the visual truth that there is a human life within her whose voice wants to be heard.

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), Carla Neal (Elena, Ghirmay, Sylk, Gianna, Becky, John , Emily & Jean), Kathy Castle (for repose of the soul of Marv Christiansen), Steve Castle (pregnant wife Tina very sick)

* NEW: Sharmane Calvin (Dr. Earl's family; Dr. Earl passed away Tuesday night)

Feast Day (St. Joseph): Read about the foster father of Jesus here, an obedient man of faith, who listened to God's whispers.

Faith Quote: "Saint Joseph was a just man, a tireless worker, the upright guardian of those entrusted to his care. May he always guard, protect and enlighten familes." - Pope John Paul II

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

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

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

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

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

Mark 6:5-6 (everyone needs healing)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat

Phil 4:13

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

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

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

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

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

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

Hebrews 10:16 (God's law in our hearts)

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

I will put my laws in their hearts. Hebrews 10:16

Living Faith snippets: "The reading from Hebrews offers assurances that God's law is written in my heart. My independent nature fights the idea of too many rules, especially rigid ones that confine my freedom to choose and to act. I know that we cannot live a moral life without foundational laws to guide our life. Personal prayer and reflection keep me in touch with my deeper self where God's law resides. Because I am not always in touch with my inner self, the external laws of society and Church serve to keep me headed in the right direction." by Sr. Joyce Rupp

Pat nuggets: Today's devotion reminds us that God has written the Truth about abortion on everyone's heart. Some people lose touch with the love and service in their hearts because of selfishness/sin, unresolved hurts, cultural secularization, cultural moral relativism (normalizes sin), etc. Nonetheless, most people acknowledge that abortion is child murder based on these stats: "82% think abortion should either be illegal under all circumstances (11%) or would limit its legality. 38% would limit abortion to the narrow circumstances of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother. Only 9% said abortion should be legal for any reason at any time during pregnancy...but that is precisely the current law under Roe v. Wade. 88% favor informed consent laws (require abortion providers to inform women of potential risks to their physical and psychological health and about alternatives). 73% favor laws that require giving parents the chance to be involved in their minor daughter's abortion decision. 68% favor laws against partial-birth abortion. 63% favor laws preventing the use of taxpayer funds for abortions." Read entire article here. ProLife is defined by protecting life from the moment of conception regardless of circumstance. The unborn baby does not cause the circumstances, and the circumstances do not justify slaughtering the innocent unborn. The American Family Association founder, Don Wildmon, said, "We have killed more babies than the entire population of Canada. A women's choice? Half of those who have died in their mothers' wombs have been women. They didn't have a choice." How is abortion any different from having a law that allows neighbors to have the choice to murder one another for whatever reason? Like abortion, this is unthinkable. May the upcoming 40 Days for Life work to further disrupt the unjust peace surrounding abortion, leading to laws that protect "liberty and justice for all."

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?
* Have your home blessed (set aside for Christ). "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

Culture War/ProLife News: click LifeSiteNews, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (click here for images).
* NEW: "Pepsi TV ad pushing gay lifestyle" (click here to read details, watch ad, sign petition).

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 (Julie, Peg, Dottie, Chris, Don)
* NEW: Stephanie Spader (invited us to fast today for her nephew JP, updates here, fasting ideas below), Cliff Nancarrow (friend Jay had stroke)

Feast Day (St Thomas Aquinas): "Patron of all universities and of students." Read about this amazing Christian here.

Faith Quote: Sharon Carlson shared. "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Rom 12:21

Through Christ for ProLife,
Pat
Phil 4:13

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

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, thereby changing us & helping others. Wayne Watson lyrics, “When God's people pray, there is hope reborn, there is sin forgiven, and miracles you can't explain await!” 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn’t, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead & see Him.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that takes our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on things that fix our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).
* Defend the unborn: 'Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die' (Prov 24:11). 'Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you' (Jer 1:5). 'It is a great poverty that a child must die that you might lie as you wish' Blessed Mother Teresa.
* Evangelization: Let's make room for unbelievers (be a friend, make a friend, lead friend to Christ) and perpetual re-evangelization of self and those near us, by way of daily prayer (relationship) and following Christ's example of selfless love, mercy, and service.
Let's J.O.Y.-fully live out the Good News and gladly tell others about it (Mark 16:15)!

2 Timothy 1:5 (passing on the faith)

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

I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and that I am confident lives also in you. 2 Timothy 1:5

Living Faith snippets: "We often recall moving and meaningful times we have spent in private and communal prayer. But do we remember the simple and sincere lessons of faith given as divine gifts of the Father through an obedient parent or grandparent--lessons that give us spiritual confidence many years down the road. God, thank you for those who pass on the faith." by Steve Givens

Pat nuggets: Today's devotion reminds us about the importance of passing on the faith to others for building a culture of life. "Liberty and justice for all" has not yet been realized in our own country, as the very lives of unborn Americans are not protected and our tax dollars are used to fund child murder (a Civil Rights issue). Let us pray with fervor for Pres Obama to have a metanoia (change of heart) regarding the protection of the unborn around the world. In his inauguration speech, Pres Obama said he would protect the slaughter of innocence. The unborn aren't innocent? How about protecting innocent young parents from going through the painful physical, emotional, and spiritual aftermath of an abortion? Pres Obama already overturned a policy that prevented foreign aid (our tax dollars) to be used for abortions (read here). This contradicts our efforts to help bring God's gift of freedom and peace to the world. Pres Obama already agreed to sign the Freedom of Choice Act if passed by Congress. At church today, we filled out postcards to be sent to congressmen. The postcards stated in part, "The Freedom of Choice Act, the most radical pro-abortion bill ever, would create a fundamental right to abortion that government could not limit...would overturn many existing widely-supported policies (read stats here), including laws protecting parental involvement, conscience rights, and preventing partial-birth abortion." The following article is related to our spiritual battle of protecting a culture of life and preventing the perversion of Truth/ normalization of sin (moral relativism), Campbell's labels help support gay marriage. Let's challenge each other to work even harder to bring true J.O.Y. (Jesus, Others, You) to those in our pieces of the world. On Sunday afternoon, my daughter Paige (8) and me joined Joe Hourigan and his daughter Emily (10) for a rosary prayer in front of the local abortion clinic. If anyone participated in a March for Life last week (read here), please share your experiences.

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?
* Let's say "God bless you" instead of just "bless you." Someone recently asked to visit with me "Christian to Christian." I asked how they knew I was a Christian. They said, "because you say God bless you when someone sneezes."

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (click here for images).
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* NEW: The C. Springs Life Network headquarters was shot at Thurs night (21 bullet holes), breaking windows and doors. "In a facility that sees almost 500 women and children monthly for counseling and assistance, it is imperative that we provide a secure and safe place." If you would like to donate to their security system, click here.

Our Prayers: 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 (Julie, Peg, Dottie, Chris, Don)
* NEW: Jason/Deanna Peters (son JP recovering from another surgery, read here), Steve Castle (health issues), Carol Nesbitt (for family of Colleen Hurley-Lund who passed away suddenly)

Feast Day (Sts Timothy and Titus): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=367 and http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=2352.

Faith Quote: Chris Shannon shared this quote, attributed to Saint Therese of Lisieux. "May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love."

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, 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)!

Mark 3:4-5 ("stretch out your hand")

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

[Jesus] said to them, "Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath rather than to do evil...? But they remained silent. Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, He said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." Mark 3:4-5

Living Faith snippets: "Jesus' simple question calls them back. It's painful to recognize how easily our hearts harden. On these grounds, the Pharisees are our brothers. Jesus welcomes sinners and grieves when they turn away. He did not huddle with the respectable or like-minded but crossed lines to reach out to withered hearts and bodies. God, enlarge my vision to hold law and love together." by Jeanne Schuler

LIFE Group nuggets:
* Kerry Tragesser shared this 40 sec ProLife inauguration video http://www.4marks.com/videos/details.html?video_id=987 and a few thoughts. "On NPR they said, "There will be 1-5 million people here in DC this day and over the week...that is a number we would expect if there was a tragedy in the country." There is a tragedy about to occur [with Pres Obama's pro-abortion leadership]. Please fast and pray today for the babies, mothers and fathers affected by abortion."
* Stephanie Kemp shard this Pro-life music video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KA-1LVjug30 and the following stats. "Since the Roe v Wade decision in 1973...55 million preborn babies have been aborted...3688 babies killed each day...a preborn baby dies by abortion every 23 seconds" [in our one nation under God].
* Pastor Don Bird shared his devotion on Christians being called to be salt of the earth: http://pastordonbird.blogspot.com/.
* Steve and Tina Castle shared today's devotion image, a 4D ultrasound picture of their youngest daughter!

ProLife news: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ & http://www.priestsforlife.org/
* Let's never forget the horrific reality of abortion (click here for images).
* Let's pray for courage to communicate the ProLife message through Christ to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* NEW: "Thursday marks the 36th anniversary of the brutal and unjust Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that imposed abortion on all 50 American states." David Bereit, 40 Days for Life

Our Prayers: Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Mike Castle (eye infection), Peace in the Middle East (Iraq, Gaza), Lynn McAleece Bishara (Aunt Mary battling cancer), Papa Joe Castle (brain bleed resolution), Lutz Ettrich (girlfriend's Dad had stroke), Jason Peters (health of son JP), Joe Levisky (pancreatitis)
* NEW: Maureen Morgan (reconciliation for Sue Peterson and son), Rob Ouellette (Libby, Juel, Fr. Whelan, Mike)

Feast Day (St. Agnes): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=106

Faith Quote: Sharon Carlson shared this one. "Everybody can be great because everybody can serve." Martin Luther King, Jr.

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)!

Psalm 150:6 (Christian identity)

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

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Alleluia. Psalm 150:6

Living Faith snippets: "After all, who more than God, the Creator of the universe and our Creator, is deserving of praise? Praise be Jesus Christ! Now and forever." by Rebecca Sande

Pat nuggets:

* Christian identity: Chad Livingston shared this about Monday's devotion: "There is a biblical mandate to rebuke our brother if he sins...having someone in your life (perhaps a priest) whom you allow to honestly rebuke you is a step of faith that I believe God wants us to take. Outsiders already see her [the Church] as hypocritical because they do not see Christians acting in a Christ like manner. If we have a real relationship with Jesus, lets act in a Christ like manner and be considered lunatics if we need to. I prefer the label of freak to Hypocrite." Joel Cain and Chad Livingston both recently posed this question..."How would unbelievers recognize a Christian in the world?" We know the overarching answer...they will know we are Christians by our love! Let's build a list of everyday things we can do to help others recognize that we choose to live in Christ. Joel and I came up with these to get us started: 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, others?

* Snippets from Thanksgiving, Freedom and Life by Fr. Frank Pavone: "Our Founding Fathers were influenced in their philosophy of government by Scripture and the Judeo-Christian tradition, according to which everyone was a sinner and equally subject to the laws of God. Moreover, each person is a child of God. This awareness shaped our Founding Fathers’ concept of government, because it introduced something unheard of among the ancient pagans, namely, that now, each individual has a direct and personal link to the Creator. This awareness of the dignity of the human person then formed the basis for letting each individual have a say in a representative form of government, and for insisting that our rights, starting with Life, come from the Creator, and that “to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men” (Declaration of Independence). This is what we celebrate at Thanksgiving – not just that we have food, but that we have freedom, rooted in God and the recognition that government cannot tamper with our human rights." www.priestsforlife.org/columns/columns2008/08-11-17-turkey-day.htm

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

* Fr. Frank Pavone wrote: "The Freedom of Choice Act would vastly increase the number of [abortions]. When people realize how extreme the bill is – for example, saying to states that they cannot require abortionists to inform the parents of a minor before doing an abortion on her – they will reject the bill. The key is that we make sure people know this before Congress votes on it." more at www.priestsforlife.org/legislation."

* David Meece shared this from Americans United for Life (AUL): "The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) would establish the right to abortion as a fundamental right and wipe away every restriction on abortion nationwide...and prevent states from enacting similar protective measures in the future. Please take a minute to sign this petition and then forward to your friends and family. As we petition heaven for the unborn let's put action to our prayers and sign this petition as an act of faith. Please read the expert analysis by AUL and sign the Fight FOCA petition at: http://www.fightfoca.com/."

* The Freedom of Choice Act does not include the choice/voice of the unborn. We are their voice crying out in the culture of death..."Life"!

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 concern), Joe Hourigan (special intention), Pam McGushin (family of six yr old William Hopkins), Lynn Bishara (aunt Mary with ovarian cancer), Stephanie Spader (for babies with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome), Joe Hourigan (Silbi and Sabu to resist abortion pressure)

* 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.

* Gina Prevett (her friend Renee with brain tumor surgery today)

Faith quote: "You and I can be in it and not of it [the world]." Jesus in the fictional book The Shack by William P. Young

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)!

Titus 2:1 (educated conscience)

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

You must say what is consistent with sound doctrine... Titus 2:1

Living Faith snippets: "Today we hear so many views and opinions on various religious topics that it can be puzzling to know what is sound doctrine. I'm glad we have outstanding theologians who have dedicated their lives to prayerful scholarship and present their insights to a faith-hungry world. They do not think for us, but enable us to think more clearly." by Fr. James McKarns

Rich's comments: The elections this year revealed some inconsistencies with sound doctrine. One noteable example was when Nancy Pelosi was asked by Tom Brokaw "When does life begin?", and she answered "I would say that as an ardent, practicing Catholic, this is an issue that I have studied for a long time. And what I know is, over the centuries, the doctors of the church have not been able to make that definition," she claimed. At least Tom Brokaw did his homework and responded, "The Catholic Church has a very clear moral and scientific definition that life begins at the point of conception." It scares me how easily people can be swayed from the Truth by the media, especially those who have not fulfilled their moral obligation as Christians to educate their consciences with sound doctrine. Lord, may Your Holy Spirit guide us to the Truth and trust those who have dedicated their lives to prayerful scholarship. Amen.

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

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, for President-elect Obama, Joe Castle (medical concern).
* Let's pray that We The People of America (the beacon on the hill) will shine Christ's Light and build a culture of Life. Let's pray for courage to build relationships and talk about ProLife.

Feast Day (St. Martin of Tours):

http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=81

Faith Quote: "To follow by faith alone is to follow blindly." by Benjamin Franklin

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 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 16:1 (financial fear)

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

A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. Luke 16:1

Living Faith snippets: "This is a story about a financial manager caught misusing his boss's property. The story never says that he is sorry for his irresponsibility. He hasn't changed. Loving God, you love me no matter what. Help me to be honest."

Pat nuggets: Wow, today's reading perfectly fits into our current economic situation...coincidence, I think not! People have misused other people's money. Hopefully, hearts will be changed through this mess which has caused fear in the world. What is at the root of this fear...loss of our families needed daily bread or our own unneeded extras? How much do we really need to be fed and joyful as Christ promised (John 10:10)? We could ask a smiling child in a third world country. In Sister Francelle's devotion (see link below), she said, "The minute everything gets complicated, there goes our joy." Perhaps this economic crisis will refocus us on seeing God's hand reaching out to us each day with our "daily bread." May we let our Heavenly Father, not fear, dictate our vision of the future (see Faith Quote below). This is also the bottom line of the great comments shared by the LIFE Devotions Group after the election (see Our Prayers below)...fear not, God is still in charge!

Sister Francelle's devotion: Read her devotion titled "Prayer" at http://sisterfrancelle.blogspot.com/. A few snippets: "Dearest Ones, C. S. Lewis, an atheist until he was 30 years old, once wrote: "Every square inch of this world is either claimed by Christ or Satan. There is no neutral ground." Evil is always disguised as good so that makes it hard to recognize. I see this as the greatest challenge of being a Christian - recognizing evil for what it is. That's why we need to test for evil spirits with prayer. No prayer is ever wasted and every prayer is answered in some way. James 5:16 says, "The heartfelt prayer of a good man makes tremendous power available!" Jesus promised, "Ask and you will receive, seek and you shall find." This world may be full of lies, temptations and reasons to doubt our faith, but this is nothing new...bless those who persecute you and pray for your enemies. "God will keep in perfect peace all those who trust in Him." (Isaiah 13)"

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

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...

* NEW: Lets pray for President-elect Obama. Let's pray that We The People of America (the beacon on the hill) will shine Christ's Light and build a culture of Life. Let's pray for courage to build relationships and talk about ProLife.

Faith Quote: "Do you realize that your imagination of the future, which is almost always dictated by fear of some kind, rarely, if ever, pictures me there with you? The person who lives by fears, especially the projection of those into the future, will not find freedom in my love." God speaking in fictional book "The Shack" by William P. Young

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 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)!

Philippians 2:14,17 (our Light in darkness)

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

Do everything without grumbling or questioning...Even if I am poured out as a libation upon the sacrificial service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with all of you. Philippians 2:14,17

Living Faith snippets: "Paul wrote this passage from prison, at a time when he did not know if he would ever be released or allowed to live. And yet his words to the Christians at Phiippi exhort them to be joyful, as he himself is joyful. Keep faith, he tells them. Be steadfast. All this is for the glory of God. Loving God, help me to make a joyful noise today." by Karla Manternach

Pat nuggets: Today's reading and devotion snippets are true spiritual ointment for our post-election wounds. America elected a Pro-Death President and voted down the CO Personhood Amendment (defines a person at conception) and the SD limited abortion amendment. These election results further clarify our mission to live out our faith in Christ to build a culture of Life. Based on the fact that most Americans did not consider Life (abortion) as the top issue of the election, we have lots of planting and watering to do (1 Cor 3:6-9), as we work to re-evangelize America. In the Presidential election, the media reported that Americans put the economy as the top issue (comfort, love of money?, selfishness?)...ahead of the Life issues (love of God/neighbor, sacrifice, selflessness). Regarding the life amendments (abortion rights), most Americans apparently put themselves (convenience, cost, selfishness) ahead of Life (love of God/neighbor, selflessness). Christ told us that the Greatest Commandments are love of God and love of neighbor. By defending the unborn, we are loving God (His gift of life) and neighbor...protecting mothers from deep abortion wounds and saving lives of the unborn babies. Being a Christian requires sacrifice (demonstrated love) of our time, money, vote, etc...but produces lasting dividends on Earth (peace and joy) and in Heaven (eternal life). Sacrifice is the narrow road...which leads to the Kingdom. Let's pray for the courage to sacrifice and be uncomfortable as we follow Christ and put love of God and neighbor first...allowing opportunities to build relationships for sharing the Truth of abortion and what it means to be a Christian (love and sacrifice). Today's reading calls us to be faithful, sacrificial, and joyful! The election may have increased the darkness...which will allow more to see the Light of Christ shining in us (love, sacrifice, joy). Let us bring Christ's love and healing to those wounded by this election. Let's not lose sight of Christ's eternal victory on the cross!

* Stephanie Kemp shared this snippet from the editor of LifeSiteNews.com, Steve Jalsevac: "40 years of dramatic moral and spiritual decline, severely negligent religious leadership and a general obsession with materialism and sensuality has finally caught up to all of us in the West. Regardless of the result of the election, it has become crystal clear that that whole western world has been committing cultural and demographic suicide that can only be reversed by a return to our Christian civilization roots [re-evangelization] - for the good of all."

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

Our Prayers: Abortion's end Prayer to End Abortion, chastity, our enemies, our troops, natural disasters, depression/ despair, dementia, cancer cure, prisoners, leaders integrity, loss of loved ones, lack of faith, Rob (St. Patrick's parish prayer list), Tina Castle (Jason Peter's son)
* Lets pray for a change of heart for all Pro-Death politicians. Let's pray for courage to build relationships and talk about ProLife. As part of our prayer each day, let's fast from something that takes our eyes off of Jesus (selfishness, bitterness, being so critical, impatience, judgment, gossip, excessive video games, etc) and take on something that fixes our eyes on Jesus (selflessness, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, understanding, caring, helping, listening).

Faith Quote: "I am Light, and I am Good. I am Love and there is no darkness in me. Removing yourself from me will plunge you into darkness. Declaring independence will result in evil [absence of Good] because apart from me, you can only draw upon yourself. That is death because you have separated yourself from me: Life." God speaking in fictional book "The Shack" by William P. Young

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.
* 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)!