Mary, cause of our joy, pray that we receive the fruit of gentleness!
Continue reading “Gift of Goodness – September 16, 2021”Gift of Goodness – September 16, 2021
Category: Guide to Goodness
Gift of Goodness – September 15, 2021
Prayer for kindness and gentleness.
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When it’s difficult to forgive
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Litany of Gentleness.
Continue reading “Gift of Goodness – September 13, 2021”Show us the way. Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness
We live in a hard world. Especially in the west where we are taught to be independent, self-reliant, and to look out for number one. While this has worldly benefits, over time, our hearts become hardened, we live in our heads, and rarely let our guard down. This is counter to what the spiritual life requires of us where we must learn how to be childlike, to be humble and small. A hardened heart never allows us to lead an integrated life of body, mind, and spirit. We must cultivate a soft and gentle heart.
Continue reading “Show us the way. Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness”We Believe. Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness
In the world today, we tend to think of faithfulness in human terms. Faithfulness is demonstrated by loyalty to our spouse, friends, duties performed, promises kept, commitments fulfilled, contracts completed, vows observed, and being true to one’s word. Although this faithfulness is certainly necessary for a successful marriage, friendships, and a virtuous life, the fruit of the spirit of faithfulness is referring to our faithfulness in Christ.
Continue reading “We Believe. Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness”Smitten With Goodness. Fruit of the Spirit: Goodness
What does “goodness” mean to you? A lot of us use the word “good” as a throwaway word. When I’m asked how I’m feeling, I might say “I’m good” without really meaning it or giving it much thought. Or when I’m asked “how was it” about an event or activity, I might answer without thinking and simply reply “it was good”. But what do I really mean by that?
Continue reading “Smitten With Goodness. Fruit of the Spirit: Goodness”Be Kind. Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
One of my daughter’s mantras is “Be Kind.” I love this reminder of who we are at our truest nature. It is sad to see our world so far from this, lacking in toleration and kindness. I believe this is the result of us being unkind to ourselves. We have misplaced priorities and are not aligning with the divine flow of our lives. We drive ourselves hard seeking worldly successes while our souls whither away. We are unaware if we are tired, hungry, or in physical or emotional pain, and we leave little room for the things that speak to our soul. Rather than give ourselves compassion that we can then bring to others, we numb ourselves out and drive harder, never truly finding peace, rest or happiness.
Continue reading “Be Kind. Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness”Greater Understanding. Fruit of the Spirit: Patience
Don’t you think we can all use a big dose of patience? After the challenges of living in what seems to be our new norm, attributes like patience, adaptability, and perseverance are key to not losing hope. It is funny how God always gives us what we need, not necessarily what we want. I guess I needed to grow in this area because this past year and a half has groomed me up to a whole new level of patience. With so much uncertainty around my husband’s fragile health during a global pandemic, along with not working and discerning my next work role and, did I mention, the inability to be with my children, grands, family, and friends? It is only by God’s grace that I haven’t gone a bit batty! But God uses everything for good. Sitting in the solitude and spending time with my Creator has gifted me with a greater understanding of His mercy and grace and has given me deeper compassion for others and especially myself.
Continue reading “Greater Understanding. Fruit of the Spirit: Patience”Standing United. Fruit of the Spirit: Peace
A few years ago, I realized I was living with a divided heart. I found that as I grew in my relationship with God, I had been living a lukewarm faith and truth be told, my heart was anchored in things of this world rather than being united with God. This division of heart was keeping me from lavishing life-giving love to those around me because that was not what was occupying my heart. Instead, my divided heart led to snarky and fear-based thinking which brought unrest, division, and disruption to my world. As my heart began to rest in the Prince of Peace, I started to bring this peaceful heart to those around me. I began to see the fruits of the Spirit at work in my words providing comfort, pointing toward God and His goodness and promises, rather than perpetuating fear, anxiety, and worry. The peace in my heart brings hope and peace into our culture, building God’s kingdom instead of feeding the fire of despair that rampantly burns in the world today. My contentment with God brings me in harmony with others and thus helps brings peace and unity into the world.
Continue reading “Standing United. Fruit of the Spirit: Peace”
Smitten With Goodness 