Psalm 139:4 (God Knows Us)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners(FB). Guest Authors schedule. LIFE Minute radio.

"Even before a word is on my tongue, Lord, you know it all." ~ Psalm 139:4 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: It is so comforting to be around the presence of good friends. People who know you so well that you do not really even need to explain yourself, because they understand you. I find today's selected Psalm very comforting, because it reminds us that God is also a very good friend who understand us. God knows us intimately. He knows our desires, our thoughts, and our weaknesses. Not only does God know everything about us, but He also cares about us. He understands our side of the story without having to explain ourselves. He also knows what is best for us, because we are His creation; His children. This is why we need to place our faith in God and His all-encompassing knowledge. Lord, give me the courage to be intimate with You in prayer and have faith in Your knowledge. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Be intimate with God and make prayer a priority in your day.

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

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

Feast Day: Saint Achillas

Faith Quote: "In prayer it is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart." ~ Mahatma Gandhi

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 (22% 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.

Numbers 11:15 (What's Your Limit?)

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

"If this is the way you will deal with me, then please do me the favor of killing me at once, so that I need no longer face this distress." ~ Numbers 11:15 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Scripture, Moses apparently reached his limit. He was thoroughly frustrated and at wits' end trying to pacify the Israelites in the desert, while leading them to the promised land. Moses was so distressed that he was willing to lose his life rather than carry the burden of a complaining people. What's your limit? What will it take for you to give up on Jesus? Christ has not given up on us. Through prayer we can share our pain with Jesus. He will walk with us and help us carry our burdens with loving compassion. Lord, help me to share my pain with You for Your love is limitless. Amen.

Faith Challenge: What's your limit? Before you reach it, pray to Jesus to help you carry your burden.

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

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. Alphonsus Liguori

Faith Quote: "I Love Jesus Christ and that is why I am on fire with the desire to give Him souls, first of all my own, and then an incalculable number of others." ~ St. Alphonsus Liquori

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 (22% 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.

Genesis 18:22 (Intercessory Prayer)

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion (FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB).

"While the two men walked on farther toward Sodom, the Lord remained standing before Abraham." Genesis 18:22

Rich's Reflections: Throughout my day I am often given unexpected opportunities to pray: waiting for a traffic light to change, waiting in line at a store, waiting for a doctor's appointment, etc. Instead of getting frustrated, I gain greater peace by taking these opportunities to talk with God. After all, Christ may have purposely caused my busy life to pause so that I may be with Him in prayer. In today's reading, the Lord stayed behind with Abraham to give him an opportunity to intercede for the inhabitants of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham eventually caught on and asked the Lord to spare the cities. The Lord said "yes" to everything that Abraham asked of Him, but when Abraham stopped interceding, the cities were destroyed. This reading stresses the importance and power of intercessory prayer; the praying on behalf of others. Lord, give me the courage and compassion to pray for others. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Seek out opportunities each day to pray for others, especially the unborn and their families.

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. Cyril of Alexandria

Faith Quote: "Talking to men for God is a great thing, but talking to God for men is greater still." ~ E.M. Bounds

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.

Acts 9:4 (Conversion)

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

He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" John 6:52 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: Today is the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima. In 1917, Our Lady appeared to 3 poor shepherd children and implored them to pray for the conversion of sinners and peace throughout the world. Our Lady's call for prayer, conversion and peace is not just for Catholics or Christians, but for all people and all religions around the world. You can find out more about our Blessed Mothers message to these three shepherd children here. In today's reading Jesus appears to Saul on the road to Damascus and set's him apart in a powerful way. This story illustrates the type of conversion our Blessed Mother is imploring us to pray for each day in the hearts of mother's in crisis, abortionists, and those who perpetuate the killing of innocents. Paul had a hardness of heart that led him to persecute and kill the first Christians. The scrolls he was caring to Damascus carried the names of many Christians he planned to persecute...but God intervened. Ananais, through prayer ("Hear I am, Lord), obediently listens to our Lord to go to a home he does not know and lay hands on a man he has learned to fear. Perhaps God is calling you to be like Ananias and obediently listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in someone's life? It could come as a nudge or thought to invite a co-worker to church; or give an old friend a call; or smile at a passing stranger. Perhaps like Ananias you have doubts that creep in and paralyze you? Dear Jesus, please give us ears to listen, hearts to follow, and courage to face uncertainty.

* Today's image of the unborn Christ invitro is by Nellie Edwards and more can be found at http://www.immaculataart.com/.

Faith Challenge: Pray everyday for conversion and peace in our world - prayer changes things!

Sr. Francelle's Devotion:

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

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: Our Lady of Fatima (c. 1917)

Faith Quote: “Throughout history there have been supernatural apparitions and signs which go to the heart of human events and which, to the surprise of believers and non-believers alike, play their part in the unfolding of history. These manifestations can never contradict the content of faith, and must therefore have their focus in the core of Christ's proclamation: the Father's love which leads men and women to conversion and bestows the grace required to abandon oneself to him with filial devotion. This too is the message of Fatima which, with its urgent call to conversion and penance, draws us to the heart of the Gospel” (The Message of Fatima, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, June 26, 2000).

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.

Mark 11:13 (Barren)

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

"Seeing from a distance a fig tree in leaf, he went over to see if he could find anything on it. When he reached it he found nothing but leaves; it was not the time for figs." Mark 11:13 (full readings)

Steve's Reflections: In today's Gospel we have the curious passage of Jesus cursing the fig tree, "May no one ever eat of your fruit again!" Some might be a bit shocked or uncomfortable by Jesus' response and think the writer must have somehow misunderstood Jesus' intentions. Others might find comfort in seeing a bit of Jesus' humanity, "He got ticked off, too." The truth is in the figgy pudding. In early spring if fig trees are going to bear a crop they have little knobs called taqsh (in Arabic). To get to these knobs one would have to root through the foliage of the tree. Passersby, like Jesus, would often eat these knobs in the early spring, but this fig tree did not have any taqsh despite it's lush appearance. This was a clear sign to Jesus. Despite it's appearance it would not bear any fruit that year. It was barren. Are we like the lush fig tree? Do we put on a good show, have all the right words, say all the right prayers, make all the pious gestures, but are barren on the inside? Jesus hungers for each one of us - when he comes upon us will he find what he is looking for? Or will he find that we are all show and no substance? Prayer is an opportunity for us to "root" through the foilage and examine our intentions, and Jesus speaks clearly today about the power of prayer, "Therefore I tell you, all that you ask for in prayer, believe that you will receive it and it shall be yours." Dear Jesus, search my soul and make my intentions true so that I may be a blessing to all those I encounter today.

Faith Challenge: Search your soul, turn to prayer, and root through the foilage - where is your heart at today?

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Suffering (a must read as you prepare for Lent) "Suffering can be a great teacher. It makes us either better or bitter - it all depends on our attitude."

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

* The Baby Joseph case effects us all.

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

Feast Day: St. Casimir (d. 1483) "Casimir, born of kings and in line (third among 13 children) to be a king himself of Poland. Even as a teenager, Casimir lived a highly disciplined, even severe life, sleeping on the ground, spending a great part of the night in prayer and dedicating himself to lifelong celibacy."

Faith Quote: "He who tends a fig tree will eat his fruit, and he who serves his master will be honored" ~ Proverbs 27:18

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.

Mark 9:23 (Prayer + Faith = Power)

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

"Jesus said to him, 'If you can! Everything is possible to one who has faith.'" Mark 9:23 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: In today's Gospel, Jesus appears upset after the father of a demon-possessed boy pleads with Him, "But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us." Jesus responds, "If you can! Everything is possible to one who has faith." Christ's displeasure in the absence of faith may be more attributable to the disciples' failure to effect a cure than with the possessed boy's father. In response, Jesus reveals the disciples' lack of faith in God (Mark 9:19) and their lack of prayer (Mark 9:29). As disciples of Christ, we have the responsibility to be examples of faith and prayer to others. In being witnesses to the power of faith and prayer, we lead others to Christ. Lord, I do believe; help my unbelief. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Scripture constantly reveals the power of faith, and its connection to healing. Pray to God to increase your faith.

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

* Historic amendment to defund Planned Parenthood passes overwhelmingly in House

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

Feast Day: St. Peter Damian

Faith Quote: "Prayer is asking for rain; faith is taking an umbrella." ~ unknown

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.

1 John 3:2 (All Saints' Day)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Feast Day: All Saints

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

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

Gal 3:3 ("through the burdens") by JP's Dad

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

Are you so stupid? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now ending with the flesh? Galatians 3:3 (full readings)

Jason's Reflections:

* One of my first thoughts after reading this verse from St. Paul was how sometimes God must feel the same way a parent does. How many parents have thought from time to time, “how many times do I have to tell you…” One of the reasons Paul wrote this to the Galatians is because they had begun to once again believe that by simply following their law they could find salvation. Paul pointed out once again that salvation comes from our personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the promise of salvation fulfilled by his death and Resurrection. Our salvation is promised by God! It comes from making a choice to accept his promise.
* At Mass this past Sunday, our Priest spoke about accepting the burden’s of life with a Spirit of stewardship…to understand how God works through us often in the things that we feel are the most difficult. Many of you have prayed for my oldest son JP and our entire family for a very long time now, and for that we are more than thankful. JP has spent about 23 of the last 27 months in the hospital. As I write this, he is back in the hospital. My family picture above was taken about two weeks ago, a day after JP (red jacket) had been released from the hospital. We made a quick overnight trip to my parent’s lake cabin and had a tremendous evening of fishing. As you can see by the smiles on our faces, we thoroughly enjoyed it. We truly live our life day by day. We try our best to make each day a day full of LIFE! We have become very aware of the life decisions that face not only the parents of the Unborn, but individuals and families at every stage of life. We do our best to accept the burden (our cross) with faith that God is using our experience to do great things in our lives and the lives of those around us.

* Guest author Jason Peters is married to Deanna, and they have three children. Jason is the President of JMJ Caseworks in Sioux Falls, SD.

Faith Challenge: How is God working through the burdens in your life? How do your burdens impact the lives of those around you? Make it a great day!

Counter-Culture News: 40 Days for Life (ends 31 Oct), LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life, Live Action.
* Anti-abortion billboard turning heads [added by Pat]

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer), Leslee Unruh (grandbaby Pierce recovering from brain surgery & pneumonia), Rob Rysavy (AF Academy roommate Nick having back surgery), Beth Hughes (nephew died in swimming accident), Carol Nesbitt (special intention), Carolyn McKissack (daughter's health)

Feast Day: Our Lady of the Rosary

Faith Quote: "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Heb 4:16

Through Christ our Lord,
Jason Peters

Heb 4:16

Luke 8:1-2 (Infirmities)

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

Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities. Luke 8:1-2 (full readings)

Steve's Thoughts: I was struck by the significance of Luke taking the time to point out the "infirmities" (weakness) of the women following Jesus. Hurting sinners followed Jesus from the beginning. We all follow Christ with some ailment or "infirmity" in tow. Many feel they aren't worthy to go to Church, or they've sinned too much. Jesus came for sinners, and He created a Church for sinners. The Good News, as Paul points out in the first reading, is that "Christ has been raised from the dead!"

Faith Challenge: What are your "infirmities"? How has your faith in Christ brought you hope despite these challenges?

Sr. Francelle Devotion: Others (see faith quote)

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life.
* The Church does not need to "be attractive" but to Proclaim the Truth says the Pope. Amen!

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP), Rich Reich (cousin Tom cancer, Pastor Pat Coy heart recovery, Uncle Javier's health), Carolyn McKissack (for Karen, Bailee and Anna Grace), Vicki Kerkvliet (Mom's radiation treatment), Karen Ryan-Philpott (2 wk old Baby William's heart issues)

* Steve Castle (1 yr old daughter Sarah seizure recovery), Nicholas Zeisler (for AF Academy healing from a cadet suicide), Pat Castle (Molly Barber hospitalized)

Feast Day: St. Robert Bellarmine. Robert Bellarmine devoted his life to the study of Scripture and Catholic doctrine. His writings help us understand that not only is the content of our faith important, it is Jesus' living person—as revealed by his life, death and resurrection—that is the source of revelation.

Faith Quote: Lord, let me live from day to day in such a self-forgetful way that even when I kneel to pray, my prayer shall be for others. (Taken from poem OTHERS)

Through Christ our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:2

Matthew 18:33 (Forgiveness)

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

Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you? Matthew 18:33 (full readings)

Rich's thoughts: We can only obtain the forgiveness of sins which God offers us if we receive it with the right attitude. Jesus advocates the prayer, Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. (Mt 6:12) Today's selected scripture comes from the parable of the unforgiving servant. The wicked servant in the parable represents the nominal Christian who though he begs forgiveness from God doesn't have an "application oriented faith" and so ultimately is not saved. Though the servant may have seemed sincere, his behavior appears that he considered his debt and the master's forgiveness to be trivial. Lord, I owe my life to you. May my actions reflect my faith in You. Amen.

Faith Challenge: If you find it difficult to forgive others, first reflect on the depth of your own sinfulness against God and how He has forgiven you.

Sr. Francelle's devotion: Pray always. Pray without ceasing.

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

* Newly Identified Corporate Supporters of Planned Parenthood Named

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP, special intention), Rich Reich (Cousin Tom's battle vs. cancer).

Feast Day of St. Jane Frances de Chantal. Learn how St. Jane forgave the man who killed her husband.

Faith Quote: "The secret of happiness is in losing, that we should throw ourselves into God as a little drop of water into the sea, and lose ourselves indeed in the Ocean of the divine goodness." - St. Jane Frances de Chantal

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

Matthew 14:23 (Prayer Power!)

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

[Jesus] went up on the mountain by himself to pray. Matthew 14:23 (full readings)

Pat nuggets:

* Regarding today's verse, take note that Jesus modeled the importance of finding some alone time for prayer. Why pray alone? This allows us to focus and listen to what is heavy on our hearts/minds...as we praise, ask, and thank God. With quiet time, we can better focus on receiving God's grace, forgiveness, and counsel...changing ourselves and situations (miracles). When? We should carve out a daily prayer routine...and take advantage of in between moments for prayer while driving/walking somewhere, waiting, etc. Praying together each day is also important (meals, end of the day, Mass, etc)...those who pray together, stay together. Prayer is fuel for our Spiritual engine...prayer power! If we are too busy to pray, we are too busy!

* Music inspiration: I Will Rise (at 3 min be ready), Jesus Saves (a good jam), Breathe (peaceful, calling out)

* Our LIFE Runners are training for the Sioux Falls Marathon (12 Sep)...raising miles, funds, and prayers...to protect the Unborn (& parents)! Updates at Marathons for ProLife FB page and Blogsite.

Faith Challenge: Let's fill some in between moments with prayer today (driving/walking somewhere, waiting, etc).

Counter-Culture News: LSN, Vatican, AFA, Priests for Life.
* 'In God We Trust' Again Upheld by Federal Appeals Court

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. Peters family (JP, special intention), Rich Reich (Cousin Tom's chemotherapy), Liz Curry (Darleen Deans stroke recovery), Lynn Bishara (Aunt Marilyn with leukemia)

* Let's pray for our troops in harms way, the Fallen Heroes, and their families. We are also called by God to love even our enemies...let us pray for them.

Faith Quote: "Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." Hebrews 12:1

In God We Trust,
Pat

Phil 4:13

Matthew 6:8 (Prayer)

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

Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Matthew 6:8 (full readings)

Rich's comments: I take great comfort in today's selected Bible verse. Sometimes I do not know what to pray for or how to pray. Like a loving parent, God knows what I need better than I do. It might make you wonder though, why do we pray if God knows what we need before we ask Him. I believe that prayer is more for the person praying than it is for God Himself. Prayer places the individual in a position of humility and selflessness. We humble ourselves asking for God's help, because we need Him and we cannot do it on our own. We are selfless in focusing on others' needs before our own when we pray for them. And finally, prayer allows us to have a relationship with God. Lord, thank You for teaching us how to pray. Amen.

Sr. Francelle's devotion: Suffering Now, Glory Later

Faith Challenge: Generously encourage others by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Prayer brings families closer together. Schedule a time to routinely pray with your family. I have found that praying with my wife, Erica, is a deeper form of communication than just talking.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.
* NEW: ‘Bayou State’ Scores another Pro-Life Win with Ultrasound Act

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Prayer to end abortion, Peters family (JP).
* NEW: Rich Reich (neighbor George died Tuesday); (cousin Tom undergoing cancer treatment)

Faith Quote: "Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays." ~Søren Kierkegaard

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

Mark 10:48 (Bound with Laminin)

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

Many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he kept calling out all the more... Mark 10:48 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Like Bartimaeus [the blind beggar] by the side of the road, we want to see. We want lives that make sense. We want healing. It was not in resignation that the blind man found healing. He did not hide his darkness. He did not forget himself. He shouted[!]" by Jeanne Schuler

Pat nuggets: From my chemist point of view, religion and science are complimentary, as both rely on faith and reason. Not to mention, we couldn't do any science without God's stuff (elements)! Deanna Peters shared this inspiring video based on Laminin, which is a cross-shaped molecule that holds the body together. Deanna said, "Watch the video - it is absolutely amazing. Reminds me of JP [seriously ill 10 yr old son] and how far we have come."

* Sr. Francelle's devotion: June - Month of the Sacred Heart‏.

Faith Challenge: Let's generously encourage others by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.

* NEW: Like Bartimaeus, let's prayerfully shout to the Lord our thanksgivings, needs, and praises...and let's listen to Him whisper back. Thank you Lord for holding us all together, our individual bodies (Laminin) and the Body of Christ (Church)...Amen.

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

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

* NEW: Cardinal Ouellet and Ottawa Archbishop: “The Abortion Debate is on”.

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

* NEW: Aaron Ferrie (job interview Thurs), Doug Young (special intention), Pat Castle (thanksgiving for JP departing yesterday for his Make a Wish trip to Disney World)

Feast Day: St. Augustine of Canterbury (missionary)

Faith Quote: "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." Colossians 1:17

Bound with Laminin (Christ),

Pat
Phil 4:13

John 14:27 (worry and fear)

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

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. John 14:27 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "Worry and fear are a natural consequence of daily life. Jesus knows we have legitimate concerns about our families, our relationships, our jobs. We can call on Him during those times of stress and doubt. But I think what He is saying here goes deeper than everyday cares and woes. This is about our salvation. He tells us: Trust in me, believe in me. And if you do, you will not have a troubled heart; you will not be afraid." by Paul Pennick

Pat nuggets:

* Speaking of worry/fear, Fr. Jonathan and I ran the Pittsburgh marathon together (2 May). Fr. Jonathan shared: "Running this Marathon was like a retreat. At every mile, Pat and I would make the sign of the cross and say out loud whom that mile was being offered for (“Redemptive Running”). We also would spontaneously say a “Hail Mary” or “Our Father” from time to time begging for grace! Probably the most powerful part of the Marathon was around Mile 24…Pat simply said out loud, “We’ve offered our miles for many people along the way…this one is for Christ Himself…Imagine the suffering Christ felt as He carried the cross to Calvary…in a small way we can offer and unite our suffering to His.” As Pat spoke I understood these words in a new way because just continuing the race at that moment was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I felt joined so intimately to our Lord Jesus Christ as he carried the cross! In fact, since then as I’ve recounted this, I can’t help but get emotional…what a beautiful gift from the Lord. Pat and I finished the race hand in hand." See NEW link in the counter culture news section below.

* Stephanie Kemp shared: "Each one of us has hardwired into us, a natural desire to know God. We are created by Him, and for Him, and He never ceases to draw us closer to Himself. The Holy Spirit (meaning 'to breathe' in Latin) brings us close to Jesus and Jesus brings us to the Father. God breathed The Word and The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. Jesus became like us to show us the way back to the Father. He IS the Way to eternal life in the Perfect Love of the Trinity."

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

* NEW: What faith practices help prevent troubled hearts and fear? Please consider sharing faith comments (or "like" button) on the Facebook page, to encourage many...thank you!

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, Vatican, American Family Association, Priests for Life
* Reality of abortion (images), #1 cause of death (23% of pregnancies). Expose this unjust peace, setting unborn/parents free.
* NEW: Nuns on run raise funds to help pay college debt. On 2 May, I met these wonderful Sisters before they ran the Pittsburgh Marathon...they have a real running "habit"! See today's picture with Sisters, Fr. Jonathan, Fr. Gregory.

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

Faith Quote: "The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship." Psalm 19:1 (shared by Aaron Ferrie)

Running His Race,
Pat
Phil 4:13

John 6:5 (working things out)

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

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

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

Pat nuggets:

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

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

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

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

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

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

* NEW: The Eucharist, Heart of Christian Life

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

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

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

Through Christ our Lord,

Pat

Phil 4:13

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

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

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

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

1 Kings 8:12 (don't be afraid of the dark)

Let's welcome God today by reflecting on this Living In Faith Exchange (LIFE) Group devotion (website, 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

Then Solomon said, "The Lord intends to dwell in the dark cloud." 1 Kings 8:12 (full readings)

Living Faith Snippets: "Living faith in the light is lovely. We join hands and marvel at the miracles and joy found in community ministries and in public celebrations of baptism, marriage and the Eucharist. But God also is there in the dark cloud, as Solomon noted when the ark of the covenant was brought to the new temple. Living faith in the darkness of crisis and struggle and uncertainty can be profound, for what we learn there moves us closer to the light." by Melanie Rigney

Pat's Nuggets: May the Peace of Christ be with the LIFE Group today and always!

* Today's snippets about darkness reminded me of the song "Here I Am" by Tom Booth (listen/lyrics): "I am here in the midst of every trial. I am here in the face of despair. I am here when pardoning your brother. Here I am, I am here."

* Pam Hourigan shared on our Facebook Group: "I have always taught my kids (including those in my girl scout troops, RE classes, etc) to keep your eyes open everywhere they go for those that look like they need to see the face of Christ...and then give them what they need, even if it is only a small way. Small ways add up, and you might just get an incredible friend in return...Some of the most interesting people I have met in my life were those I just took the time to listen to!"

* Thanks for sharing our LIFE Group with others...new members include Darin Berndt, Joe Hayes, Brian Christiansen, Catherine Jurgensen...welcome!

Faith Challenges:

* Let's generously invite others to join the LIFE Group by forwarding a devotion or using our Facebook Group "invite people to join" link.

* NEW: To encourage others to reflect on the devotions, consider "liking"/commenting or sharing a "God-sighting" on our Facebook Group.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, 40 Days for Life, Vatican, American Family, 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: "Planned Parenthood's counter commercial to the Tim Tebow Super Bowl ad is glaringly missing mention of one crucial person. The unborn child does not exist for "pro-choicers", nor do the large numbers of women hurt from making this often coerced and seriously uninformed and deadly "choice"." Steve Jalsevac (article with PP counter ad)

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

* NEW: Impacting some of the poorest counties in the US, the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation (SD) had an ice storm/blizzard that toppled thousands of power lines and caused water pipes to freeze/burst, article.

* NEW: "That by means of sincere search for the truth scholars and intellectuals may arrive at an understanding of the one true God. That the Church, aware of her own missionary identity, may strive to follow Christ faithfully and to proclaim His Gospel to all peoples." Pope Benedict

Feast Day (St. Jerome Emiliani): Patron saint of abandoned children and orphans.

Faith Quotes:

* "You will get to know God truly and personally only through prayer. What is needed is that you talk to God, and listen to God." John Paul II

* "Let your heart be glad, always glad in the Lord, so to shine like stars in the darkness of the night." Only This I Want by Dan Schutte

In God We Trust,
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).

Daniel 3:64-67 (The gateway to prayer)

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

Every shower and dew, bless the Lord...All you winds, bless the Lord...Fire and heat, bless the Lord...Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. Daniel 3:64-67 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "These verses are part of a larger hymn summoning all creation to worship its creator. What an image! I often marvel at the might and mystery of nature. And yet all of nature, in its power, could kneel in awe before God who made it. How much more vastly mighty and mysterious is God!" by Karla Manternach

Steve's Thoughts: So often I find it difficult to pray. I am often distracted by frivolous minutiae or overwhelmed by the amount of "intentions" that are on my heart. I have a hard time just quieting my mind. This litany has often helped me focus my heart and mind on God and drown out those distractions. I have found that when I turn to God first in praise and thanksgiving the distractions melt away. I have often found that the real intentions of my heart rise to the surface. Have a blessed Thanksgiving! Lord, let me offer you the first fruits of my day in praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

Sr. Francelle's Devotion: Gratitude

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 Mickey Carlson!
* NEW: Seek God in prayer today, but instead of asking for something off the bat come before Him first with praise and thanksgiving.

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) for setting the unborn (and parents) 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, politicians, illnesses/injuries, jobs, natural disasters, refugees, addictions, persecuted believers, Peters family (JP, Rebekah), Joe (brother Mike), Doug Young (special intention), Pat Castle (health care reform bill), Joe (daughter's pregnancy), Aaron Ferrie (special intention)

Feast Day: St. Catherine of Laboure and the Miraculous Medal

Faith Quotes: "One must see God in everyone." ~ St. Catherine of Laboure

Through Christ Our Lord,
Steve
Romans 12:2

* 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).