Acts 11:17 (Without Hindrance)

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

"Who was I to be able to hinder God?" Acts 11:17 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: St. Peter asks an excellent question, "Who was I to be able to hinder God?" One of the mysteries of God is why He would put Himself in a position in which we could even have the capability to hinder Him. God is all-powerful and can do all things with or without us, but because He loves us, He wants us to be a part of His plan. We are God's children and He has placed us in a unique situation on earth. Every aspect of our life, from our daily interactions with others in our community, church, workplace, and family are not an accident, but part of God's plan. We can either hinder His work, help it, or hasten it. Regardless, God can work all things to the good despite us. Lord, I am Your joyful servant. Use me to do Your will. Amen.

Faith Challenge: At the end of the day, reflect on your daily interactions with others. Did you hinder, help, or hasten God's work?

Counter-Culture News: LifeNews, 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.

Faith Quote: "God gave Himself to you: give yourself to God." ~ Blessed Robert Southwell

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 1:1 (The Word of Life)

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

"What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we looked upon and touched with our hands concerns the Word of life-- for the life was made visible;" 1 John 1:1 (full readings)

Rich's Reflections: The life-giving Word of God became flesh as our Lord Jesus Christ so that we may know Him and have a relationship with Him. As humans, we are sensory beings and God knows that, because He created us so. That is why He makes Himself present to us in ways that we can relate to Him. After Christ's Ascension, He sent the Holy Spirit to give birth to His body, the Church. It is through the Church that we can feel the presence of Jesus in the love that we share with others. Through the Church's book, the Bible, we can hear the voice of Jesus and communicate with Him in prayer. We can see God's presence in His creations, in nature around us, and also imprinted on our very own bodies. It is in life, that we see the Word of life -- Jesus, our Lord, because Jesus is life. Lord, open my my eyes so that I may see Your presence. Amen.

Faith Challenge: Prayerfully reflect on the presence of Christ around you and share this with others.

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

* Victory at the food court; As the year 2010 was winding to an end, something marvelous happened at a food court in a Canadian shopping mall. Suddenly, the patrons came to life and began to sing, to sing beautifully, to sing the Hallelujah Chorus of Handel’s Messiah.

Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion, Alpha Center, Peters family (JP). View, add, update Prayers on our website. Let’s pray now.

Feast Day: St. John was one of the first apostles to witness the risen Christ (John 20:8) and is one of the major contributors of the New Testament. He was able to write the word of God, because he so intimately knew the Word of God, Jesus.

Faith Quote: "The Word who found a dwelling in Mary’s womb comes to knock on the heart of every person with singular intensity this Christmas." - Pope John Paul II

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

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

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

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

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

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

Matthew 5:23-24 (Reconciliation)

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

Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24 (full readings)

Rich's comments: Max Lucado wrote in his book, When God Whispers Your Name, in reference to today's highlighted scripture: "As far as I know, this is the only time God tells you to slip out of church early. Apparently, he’d rather have you give your olive branch than your tithe. If you are worshiping and remember that your mom is hacked-off at you for forgetting her birthday, then get off the pew and find a phone. Maybe she’ll forgive you; maybe she won’t. But at least you can return to your pew with a clean conscience." My faith has taught me that reconciliation is critical to my relationship with Christ. While the Pharisees were concerned about washing their hands before eating a meal (Matthew 15:2), Jesus was more concerned about a clean heart, "for from the heart comes evil thoughts, murder, adultery, unchastity, theft, false witness, blasphemy." (Matthew 15:19) Lord, may I offer myself as a gift to You at Your altar as a living sacrifice with clean heart and love towards my fellow brothers and sisters. Amen.
* Sr. Francelle's devotion: Family, Love, Prayer

Faith Challenge: Generously encourage others by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: Before you go to bed, reflect on those who you may have wronged during the day and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you in making amends.

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: Unborn Baby Jesus Poster Campaign Launched by Christian Consortium: Ads will reach 40 million by Christmas.

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

Faith Quote: "Lord, let me feel the pain of a wounded soul, and seek to heal that wounded one I pray; yes, I would take the reconciling role, and bring an end to pain and strife today." —Hess

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

Luke 24:51 The Ascension of the Lord

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

As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. Luke 24:51 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "I have always had a sad sense of abandonment when I think about the Ascension. 'Jesus is gone; what do we do now?' I imagine the apostles saying. Mary remained after Jesus ascended to his Father, and she gave insight, guidance and tender care to those following him. Remember that she still does the same for us. Dear Jesus, when I feel that you have disappeared from my sight, remind me to look at Mary." by Rebecca Sande

Rich's comments: Early on in my Faith, I believed in Jesus and His resurrection, but I saw Him only as a historical figure; a mysterious God-man who died for our sins thousands of years ago. This perspective makes one feel distant from our Lord and leads to a sad sense of abandonment, because a necessary relationship with Jesus Christ is lacking. Since then, I have matured in my Faith and have built a relationship with Jesus through prayer, worship, and scripture. By maintaining a daily connection to Jesus, He becomes real to me in the present and dissolves all sense of abandonment. Lord, may I always remember that You are here with me now. Amen.
* Read Sr. Francelle's devotion "Unless the grain of wheat dies..." and learn about dying to self and living for God.

Faith Sharing: Let's generously share the LIFE Group by forwarding devotions or using the Facebook "invite people" link.
* NEW: How can you stay connected to Jesus? Please consider sharing 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: Catholic Bishop: Social Worker Wanted My Mom to Abort Me During the Depression; Bishop Galeone was the keynote speaker at the Banquet for Life hosted by A Woman's Answer Medical Center (crisis pregnance center) in Gainesville, Florida, where the ultrasound machine that the LIFE Group assisted raising money for was presented.

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together, and close to God (footnotes). Peters family (JP), Prayer to end abortion.
* NEW: Ann Schaefbauer (repose of the soul of mother in law Becky, strength for family)

* NEW: Rich Reich (cousin Tom Hanson - surgery this week to remove colon; suffering from Familial Adenomatous Polyposis), (uncle Patrick Justet - blood clots in leg), (Sara Ragan - special intention).

Faith Quote: "He ascended into heaven, sits at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead." - Apostles Creed

Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22

Psalm 130:6 (yearning for God)

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

My soul waits for the Lord more than sentinels wait for the dawn. Psalm 130:6 (full readings)

Living Faith snippets: "There is a wonderful word that is seldom used: yearning. It means "to be filled with longing or desire." Just as the sentinel must yearn for the dawn, so does the psalmist not just wait, but yearn for God. Over the years [in church], I have found myself sitting closer and closer to the altar, even leaning forward, longing for, yearning for Jesus, looking for the first rays of the sun--the Son." by Heather Wilson

Rich's comments: Do you have that yearning desire for the Lord that the psalmist speaks about? I know that when I sit down at a restaurant, I begin to salivate thinking about the meal that I am about to have as I look at the menu. Sometimes I may even order an appetizer to satiate my hunger before the main course. If you do not have this yearning desire for Jesus Christ, perhaps you have not yet read the menu (Scriptures) or satisfied your hunger (Eucharist). Lord, may my heart always yearn for You above all other desires in anticipation of full communion with You. Amen.

Faith Challenges: Let's all invite one person each week (John 14:6) to join our LIFE Group (>240 of God's children).

* NEW: Renew your desire for the Lord. Participate in a Bible study/faith sharing group and put your faith into action by serving those in need.

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), Stephanie Spader (for pregnancy), Joyce Trunk (friend w/brain cancer), Kathy Castle (Vicki Miller in hospice).

Feast Day: St. Teresa of Avila

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

Through Christ our Lord,

Rich

James 1:22

* Prayer: Prayer connects us with God's will & His miracles, changing us & helping others. 'If you pray that God will move a mountain and He doesn't, assume Christ wants you to climb it instead.'
* Fasting: Let's fast from things that take our eyes off Jesus (selfishness, 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).

Ezekiel 47:8 (absence makes the hear grow fonder)

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

[The angel] said to me, "This water flows into the eastern district down upon the Arabah, and empties into the sea, the salt waters, which it makes fresh." Ezekiel 47:8

Living Faith snippets: "Towards the end of Lent last year, someone asked me, with a measure of annoyance, why we empty the baptismal and holy water fonts between Holy Thursday night and the Easter Vigil. A wonderful question in light of how important flowing water is in our faith. I told her that we make such uncomfortable changes to remind ourselves, with something more than words, that this is a time to consciously experience our need for God to touch the deserts of our lives--our fears, selfishness, greed and consumerism. The absence of water fairly shouts our need for the blessings only God can give."

Rich's comments: Today's devotional reminds me of the saying "absence makes the heart grow fonder." It is true that when my wife Erica is not around, that I recognize the things that I might have taken for granted (e.g. her touch, her voice, companionship, conversation, assistance, etc). When I am reunited with Erica after a business trip, I feel even closer to her than before I left. In making sacrifices this Lenten season, may we recognize the things that God has blessed us with and give Him thanks.

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

* NEW: Give yourself as an offering this Lenten season. Do something that removes you from your comfort zone, but benefits someone in need.

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

Pro-Life Conference Tidbits: Chris Slattery spoke at the Florida Students for Life Conference. He has pursued a dream to support pregnant women and girls in need with real alternatives to abortion and launched Expectant Mother Care-EMC FrontLine Pregnancy Centers in mid-town Manhattan in 1985. Chris has made a major commitment to training America's future frontline pro-life lifesavers with a unique NYC internship program, particularly for college students, through their "American Center for Pro-Life Action." Chris pointed out the geographical disparity in which the majority of Pro-Lifers are not located where the majority of abortions are taking place (i.e. the big cities including NYC, LA, Phoenix, etc). His internship program houses interns for the summer, trains them how to counsel women considering an abortion, and puts them into action. Some of the interns were available to speak at our conference and they showed us pictures of the women with their babies whose lives they had saved. For more information about this active Pro-Life group please visit their website here.

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), Sharmane Calvin (Dr. Earl passed away/his family), Kathy Castle (16 cars pulled into Planned Parenthood with young girls), Carla Neal (Katelyn, Mollie, Pam Bert, Edna, Maureen, Cathy, Robin and their families)

Faith Quote: “Much more is accomplished by a single word of the Our Father said, now and then, from our heart, than by the whole prayer repeated many times in haste and without attention.” by Saint Teresa

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)!

Isaiah 1:18 (path toward reconciliation)

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

Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow. Isaiah 1:18

Living Faith snippets: "In preparation [for Reconciliation], I ask Jesus: "Tell me what in me most jeopardizes our relationship?" I never get the same answer. It is always an unexpected and often uncomfortable revelation of a part of my life God wants to heal. It is God's revelation and activity that helps me bring into the light areas of my life that he wants to make white as snow." by Sr. Kathryn James Hermes, F.S.P.

Rich's comments: Erica had a guest speaker at a teacher in-service last Friday who told the following story: Chapter 1 - I walked down a street and fell into a hole. It wasn't my fault, but I couldn't get out of it. After a lot of struggle, I finally worked my way out of the hole. Chapter 2 - I walked down a street and fell into a hole. It wasn't my fault, but I couldn't get out of it. I prayed to God to help me get out of the hole. God responded and pulled me out of the hole. Chapter 3 - I walked down a street and there was a hole. I walked around the hole. Chapter 4 - I walked down a different street. Lord, may we have the courage and self-evaluation to acknowledge our sins, for You are faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing. [1 John 1:9] Amen.

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

* NEW: Embrace the healing power of God's mercy and forgiveness this Lenten season. Perform an examination of conscience and confess your sins. [James 5:16]

Stations of the Cross (3): Jesus falls the first time
* Consider attending a Stations of the Cross service (Friday evenings, nondenominational).

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

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

Faith Quote: “Forgiveness is the remission of sins. For it is by this that what has been lost, and was found, is saved from being lost again.” - Saint Augustine

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

Matthew 7:7,9-10 Trust our Father in heaven

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

Ask and it will be given to you...Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asks for a loaf of bread, or a snake when he asks for a fish?

Living Faith snippets: "Only slowly have I realized that it has been in that breaking open that I have come closer to God. It may not have been the bread I had asked for, but it was the Bread of Life. Dear God, help us to trust that, no matter what we ask for, you will always give us life." by Patricia Livingston

Rich's comments: I often think of our relationship with God as one between a child and his parent. From the child's perspective they are only thinking about what they want, what is pleasing to them without any regard to the big picture. Like a child with a freshly harvested bag of candy on Halloween night. Without the parent present to set boundaries, the child might finish off the bag of candy in one sitting. There will be times that our prayers do not get answered in the way that we are asking, but we need to trust our Father in heaven that He knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows what we really need, because He has the big picture.

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

* NEW: Reflect on the outcome of your prayer and how God's hands were involved. Share these experiences with a friend so that they may also know the power of prayer.

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

Our Prayers: Those who pray together stay together. Fasting ideas below.
* Let's pray for courage to share ProLife Truth to those around us (John 14:6)...rebuilding a Culture of Life (Matt 5:16).
* Prayer to end abortion, abused children, chastity, peace, our enemies, our troops, depression/ despair, prisoners, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, jobs, Rob Ouellette (Mark, Levi, Karl), Stephanie Spader (special intentions), Sue Peters (Carrie Maniscalco updates), Peters family (JP's miraculous recovery, updates), Carolyn (research advisor with terminal cancer)

Faith Quote: "Indeed, man wishes to be happy even when he so lives as to make happiness impossible." by Saint Augustine

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

Mark 8:29 (spiritual autobiography)

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

And [Jesus] asked them, "But who do you say that I am?" Mark 8:29

Living Faith snippets: "Nearly a decade ago, I applied to a program for certification in spiritual direction. One of the requirements was to write my spiritual autobiography and found this as a daunting task. The circumstances of my life may once have seemed disjointed or disconnected or unrelated. But what moved me most was how Jesus was leading me through my days and how all of my transitions had been a constant attempt to answer the question Jesus raised: "Who do you say that I am?"" by Sr. Chris Koellhoffer, I.H.M.

Rich's comments: If you have never done so before, I highly recommend reflecting on the past events of your life. Think about the places you have been, the opportunities that have crossed your path, and the people God has placed in your life. Metaphorically, it is like stepping back from the trees to see the forest. I never made the connections at the time, but looking back at all of the events in my life together as a whole, I can definitely see how Jesus has been leading me towards Him.

Faith Challenge: Let's challenge each other to joyfully live out the Good News. Suggestions?
* NEW: Write your spiritual autobiography today and share it with a friend. Thank those in your life who played a part in bringing you closer to Jesus.

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

Pro-Life Seminar snippets:

There are 4 arguments used by Pro-Abortionists to attack the defenseless unborn and they are summarized in the acronym SLED:

1. size - argument attacks the size of preborns

2. level of development - argument attacks those less biologically mature

3. environment - argument attacks the residence of preborns

4. degree of dependency - argument attacks the viability of preborns

SLED is further highlighted in Scott Klusendorf's article entitled "Five Bad Ways to Argue About Abortion."

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, ProLife politicians, lack of faith, illnesses/injuries, Bro Joe Castle (unresolved medical issue), Peters family (JP updates), Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer), Ann Schaefbauer (Ian Keisacker, recovering from brain surgery), Carol Nesbitt & John Lown (Dody Gustaf has inoperable cancer), Rob Ouellette (John & Mary, Alayna and their families), Pastor Don Bird (abused children), victims/families of Buffalo NY plane crash, Kelley (mother, Margaret Hanneman - abdominal anurysm), Rob (Maureen - endoscopy)

Faith Quote: "God will not suffer man to have a knowledge of things to come; for if he had prescience of his prosperity, he would be careless; and if understanding of his adversity, he would be despairing and senseless." by Saint Augustine

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

* Bible: Readings and reflections for today.

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

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

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

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

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

Mark 7:8 (rules as obstacles)

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

You disregard God's command, but cling to human tradition. Mark 7:8

Living Faith snippets: "Rules and customs generally help prevent conflict. But in some cases they can go a little overboard, and the enforcers can take them a bit too seriously. Jesus must have felt that way about the Pharisees. He knew that rules had their place, but he also knew they were not meant to inhibit our relationship to God." by Paul Pennick

Rich's comments: Rules are important and necessary. God believed this and gave us His commandments to live by. However, we need to be careful that we do not become legalistic like the Pharisees and emphasize the letter of the law over the spirit of the law. Rules help prevent conflict, but sometimes rules conflict with each other, and we need to prioritize what is important. Jesus was observed healing on the Sabbath, a day dedicated to honor and worship God, but what could be more honoring to God than to love and help our fellow man. Don't let rules and regulations be the obstacles preventing you from sharing God's love with others.

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

* NEW: Offer spiritual comfort to someone who has recently experienced the death of a family member or friend. A few weeks ago I was able to provide comfort to a friend who lost his uncle by sharing my hope and faith in Jesus Christ.

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, Liz Curry (abused children), Zek Kazanca (PhD exam prep), Bro Joe Castle (unresolved medical issue), Peters family (JP updates), Mark Nelson (Pat Barton cancer surgery), Rob Ouellette (Leo & Suzanne)

Feast Day (St. Scholastica): http://saintbenedict.org/stscholastica.htm

Faith Quote: "Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither." by C.S. Lewis

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

Psalm 40:10-11 (Share the Good News)

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 announced your justice in the vast assembly; I did not restrain my lips, as you, O Lord, know. Your justice I kept not hid within my heart; your faithfulness and your salvation I have spoken of; I have made no secret of your kindness in the vast assembly. Psalm 40:10-11.

Living Faith snippets: "If the people we interact with daily, our coworkers and neighbors, do not know that we are followers of Jesus of Nazareth, then maybe our words do not proclaim God's deeds. Maybe our deeds do not shout out his Word. Good news is meant to be shared. Let's share it!" by Claire J. King

Rich's comments: Sharing the good news might be difficult for some who do not recognize the presence of God working in their lives. God has always been a part of my life, but I didn't recognize His presence until I opened my heart to Him. My heart was opened to Him when I began to read the Bible daily, pray, and share my faith with others. Lord, I pray that You open our hearts so that we may recognize Your presence and share Your good news with others. Amen.

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

* NEW: Try using an alternative expression to "good luck" such as God bless, or may God be with you!

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: I participated in A Women's Answer (AWA) Medical Center Walk for Life in Gainesville, Florida this weekend. About 50 of us Christians walked from Holy Faith Church to the new AWA Medical Center and back, while praying and holding signs that read "Life, the first inalienable right." The AWA Medical Center (http://www.awagiving.com/) will open its doors on March 1, 2009 and will offer pregnancy tests and counseling, and eventually ultrasound, STD testing, and pre-natal care.

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), Jason/Deanna Peters (son JP on ventilator, read here), Carol Nesbitt (for family of Colleen Hurley-Lund who passed away suddenly)

Feast Day (St. Angela Merici): http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=21

Faith Quote: "Put God first in your life, Who first put you into life!" by Fr. John Gillespie

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, 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 3:9-10 (Jesus: In Demand)

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

He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd...He had cured many and, as a result, those who had diseases were pressing upon him to touch him. Mark 3:9-10

Living Faith snippets: "In this scene, Jesus is overbooked and likely tired. There is no wave of his hand sending the crowd home nor offering a blanket miracle cure. He doesn't stop until all experience the joy of his presence. How blessed we are that Jesus always has time for an appointment with us." by Julia DiSalvo

Rich's comments: Today's Gospel was portrayed in one of the scenes of the musical Jesus Christ Superstar. I remember watching thousands of diseased people moaning from their ailments and reaching out towards Jesus, smothering Him. The crowd was too overwhelming for Him and I always wondered why He didn't just cure them all at once with one "blanket miracle cure." I believe it is because the blanket cure would be too impersonal. Jesus Christ desires to have a personal relationship with each and every one of us. Jesus is in high demand, but He can make time for us. Can we do the same for Him?

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: "Today 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), Maureen Morgan (reconciliation for Sue Peterson and son), Rob Ouellette (Libby, Juel, Fr. Whelan, Mike)

Feast Day (St. Vincent): http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/15434b.htm

Faith Quote: "God has landed on this enemy-occupied world in human form...The perfect surrender and humiliation was undergone by Christ: perfect because He was God, surrender and humiliation because He was man." by C.S. Lewis

Through Christ Our Lord,

Rich

Romans 12:12

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

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

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

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

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

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