In the U.S. we celebrate July Fourth and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, a document that declared the thirteen American colonies independent from Great Britain. We celebrate with picnics and fireworks, reminding us of the treasure of our freedom.
Continue reading “True Freedom”
I’ve been thrown off my schedule with all my travel as of late. As I get older, I’m finding it takes more effort to exercise my “rule of life” when I’m thrown out of the comfort of my routine. As I write this, the veil has been lifted allowing me to see the invitation to invite more spontaneity in my life and be “fully alive.”
Continue reading “Intercessory Prayer”
Much of the Bible calls us to entrust our lives completely to God compelling us to meditate on the meaning of faith. The Scriptures rest upon faith and remain inspired by the Spirit of faith.
Continue reading “Spirit of Faith”
We will never be free of trials and temptations as long as our earthly life lasts. Job said it well: “Is not the life of human beings on earth a drudgery?’ (Job 7:1). We should always be on our guard against temptations, always praying that our enemy, the devil, ‘who never sleeps but constantly looks for someone to devour.’ (1 Pet 5:8), will not catch us off guard. No one in this world is so perfect or holy as not to have temptations sometimes.
Continue reading “The Gift of Temptation”
Today is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul the Apostles. It serves as a reminder to us of their pivotal roles in the early Church: Peter as the “rock” upon which the Church was built and Paul as the great missionary who spread the Gospel message. It draws us to consider how we are better together.
Continue reading “Better Together”
Throughout her lifetime, Mary embodied a profound love for Christ, submitting herself to God’s will in cheerful obedience despite difficulties. Dedicated to honoring the interior life of the Blessed Mother, the devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary which we celebrate today, reflects upon her heart of love for God, celebrating her joys, sorrows, and virtues.
Continue reading “Love Despite Sorrow”
The Sacred Heart represents protection and forgiveness. It is Christ’s Divine love and compassion and one of the five wounds of Christ from the crucifixion. This serves as a mystical vehicle for union with the Divine and for reparation.
Continue reading “Finding Sacred Rest”
How can we be full of joy in times like these? It seems we are truly walking through the valley of tears as we watch the shadowlands of humanity play out on the world stage. We are called not to loose hope, to take heart and find joy. This is the spiritual maturity we are called to pursue with fear and trembling. We cancel our focus on the fleeting joy the world offers and gravitate to the joy found in the moments of God’s presence.
Continue reading “The Source of Joy”
This reflection by Dr. Barbara Holmes on joy and resilience from Richard Rohr’s daily meditations is too good not to share in its entirety. It describes how we can find joy through practice and surrender:
Continue reading “Pathway to Joy”
Smitten With Goodness 