The Advent Adventure
Experiencing the Touch of God
Christmas Day, December 25, 2016
“Today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord. " (Luke 2:7)
A blessed and holy Christmas Day and Season to you. The following is from Kneeling in Bethlehem by Ann Weems and really has given me a lot of food for thought the past week and will hopefully help me to keep this Christmas Joy and Peace alive throughout the coming year.
It is not over,
this birthing.
There are always newer skies
into which
God can throw stars.
When we begin to think
that we can predict the Advent of God,
that we can box the Christ
in a stable in Bethlehem,
that's just the time that God will be born
in a place we can't imagine and won't believe.
Those who wait for God
watch with their hearts and not their eyes,
listening
always listening
for angel words.
May the birthing of Jesus which we remember on this day continue to happen for you each day ahead. May God continue to work in each of us in ways we can only imagine and right now can't believe. May we listen and watch with our hearts.
Thank you for being part of my Advent journey. I have been blessed by your presence.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
It is not over,
this birthing.
There are always newer skies
into which
God can throw stars.
When we begin to think
that we can predict the Advent of God,
that we can box the Christ
in a stable in Bethlehem,
that's just the time that God will be born
in a place we can't imagine and won't believe.
Those who wait for God
watch with their hearts and not their eyes,
listening
always listening
for angel words.
May the birthing of Jesus which we remember on this day continue to happen for you each day ahead. May God continue to work in each of us in ways we can only imagine and right now can't believe. May we listen and watch with our hearts.
Thank you for being part of my Advent journey. I have been blessed by your presence.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Saturday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 24, 2016
“Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel because he has visited and ransomed his people.” (Luke 1:68)
It’s Christmas Eve, and I have always experienced a sense of excitement around this day – more so sometimes than Christmas Day itself. First there’s the excitement around if I have everything done. Are all the presents in order and ready for everyone. Have I remembered everything in planning the Christmas celebration. Then there’s the last minute things. Just one more thing to add to the Christmas celebration. Sometimes it’s a gift, sometimes something to eat, sometimes a last minute something for someone who has decided to come after all. It is a day of great expectations.
The passage from Luke today is Zechariah’s prophecy after he is able to speak again. (Remember the angel took away his speech because of his lack of faith that God could do the impossible and allow Elizabeth, his elderly wife, to conceive.) Zechariah proclaims that all the waiting is now over. The messiah that generations upon generations of the Jewish people have waited for is about to arrive. The messiah that they have heard about every Sabbath when they have gone to temple is about to come into their midst and ransom His people. Their most hopeful expectations will now be fulfilled.
Let me also suggest that Zechariah’s prophecy is for us Let’s put these two thoughts together. Today is a day full of expectations. So in our day of expectations, we need to pause and remember that we are also celebrating the return of our Messiah – Jesus Christ. We are celebrating the fact He came 2016 years ago, but we are also celebrating that He will come again and visit us again and ransom us forever. The prophecy of Zechariah is ours here and now, but also in the future – however near or far that may be.
So in our preparations today, we must make sure our own hearts are in order; the gifts we wish to give to the Messiah are prepared well; the gifts we wish to receive from the Messiah we are ready to open. Take a few minutes today for yourself to make sure that all is well, and you are ready to welcome the Son of God, Jesus Christ, into your life forever.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Friday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 23, 2016
"Your ways, O Lord, make known to me; teach me your paths,. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior." (PS 25)
I placed this in our Church bulletin a couple of weeks ago because it really hit me when I read it.
My Grown Up Christmas List
No more lives torn apart.
That wars would never start.
And time would heal all hearts.
And everyone would have a friend.
And right would always win.
And love would never end.
This is my grown up Christmas list.
Fr. Dave Dwyer - Busted Halo
I have given these words a lot of reflection as I prepare for the Christmas celebrations. And I can honestly say, this list is what I truly want for Christmas. Can you imagine our World --our United States -- living in this reality? The thoughts overwhelm.
So I ask myself, "How can this be?" This is what Mary asked of the angel. Of course, her question is different than mine. God answered Mary by the gift of her Son. But, if I truly think about it, and live it, God answers my list with God's Son. This list is Jesus' list for us. "How can this be." Through me; through you. It starts with each of us making sure we don't tear any one apart this coming year. That we work to bring peace -- turn the other cheek -- and not start a war through resentment or revenge. That we are healers. That we befriend the next person in front of us every single time. And recognize we've already won! We have the love and mercy of a God that is endless. A love that never ends. Could my love be endless to others?
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
My Grown Up Christmas List
No more lives torn apart.
That wars would never start.
And time would heal all hearts.
And everyone would have a friend.
And right would always win.
And love would never end.
This is my grown up Christmas list.
Fr. Dave Dwyer - Busted Halo
I have given these words a lot of reflection as I prepare for the Christmas celebrations. And I can honestly say, this list is what I truly want for Christmas. Can you imagine our World --our United States -- living in this reality? The thoughts overwhelm.
So I ask myself, "How can this be?" This is what Mary asked of the angel. Of course, her question is different than mine. God answered Mary by the gift of her Son. But, if I truly think about it, and live it, God answers my list with God's Son. This list is Jesus' list for us. "How can this be." Through me; through you. It starts with each of us making sure we don't tear any one apart this coming year. That we work to bring peace -- turn the other cheek -- and not start a war through resentment or revenge. That we are healers. That we befriend the next person in front of us every single time. And recognize we've already won! We have the love and mercy of a God that is endless. A love that never ends. Could my love be endless to others?
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Thursday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 22, 2016
"My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior." (Luke 1:46)
Getting close to Christmas. Let's take some time today to actually physically take a piece of paper and a pen and right now how the Lord has been great to you this year. Start with the easy ones: your spouse, your parents, your children, your job, your friendships, your Church. . . Got the idea. Then really dig -- even dig out your calendar if you need to -- and go over what has happened since last Christmas. Maybe it could even be something as sad as the loss of a loved one. How did this beloved show you the greatness of the Lord? How did this love show you greatness? How have you grown in greatness since this loss? Your list could go on and on and on. That's good. We just need to pause in the midst of this chaotic time and rejoice in all the blessings of this past year. Mary is over the moon that she's going to give birth to a Son. So is Elizabeth. So many births this year in our Church, some unexpected. It's been amazing.
Take some quiet time and do this. Then go to Luke 1:46-56 and pray "Mary's Song". Proclaim the Lord's greatness in your life! Let your Spirit rejoice!
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Take some quiet time and do this. Then go to Luke 1:46-56 and pray "Mary's Song". Proclaim the Lord's greatness in your life! Let your Spirit rejoice!
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 21, 2016
"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled." (Luke 1:45)
Yesterday we heard Mary say, "May it be done to me according to your word." Today we hear Elizabeth's response to Mary's visit affirming Mary's faith in God. Of course, Elizabeth speaks to us too. We have believed in what the Lord promised us: Jesus is our unconditional shepherd full of unconditional love and unconditional mercy. Jesus tells us to bring our burdens to Him, he reminds us we are never alone, and not to be afraid. Of course, the ultimate promise is the promise that we are heirs to His Kingdom and eternal life is ours. Do we believe and live by what the Lord has spoken to us.
Maybe as we near Christmas, we can look back on prior Christmases and see how the Lord has fulfilled our lives in many and varied ways. Maybe to pick out a time in your life when you were blessed with something or someone and never believed it was for your good. Now looking back you see how it worked out for your betterment. But you never thought it would because it wasn't what you wanted to happen. Reminisce a little on the past and see how the Lord has fulfilled many promises to you.
Two incredible women of the Scriptures remind us about faith and trust especially in the message of Christmas: Emmanuel -- God is with us.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Maybe as we near Christmas, we can look back on prior Christmases and see how the Lord has fulfilled our lives in many and varied ways. Maybe to pick out a time in your life when you were blessed with something or someone and never believed it was for your good. Now looking back you see how it worked out for your betterment. But you never thought it would because it wasn't what you wanted to happen. Reminisce a little on the past and see how the Lord has fulfilled many promises to you.
Two incredible women of the Scriptures remind us about faith and trust especially in the message of Christmas: Emmanuel -- God is with us.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 20, 2016
"May it be done to me according to your word." (Luke 4)
How many times do we hear or read this Scripture from Luke's Annunciation story? It's such a beautiful vision of the young girl, Mary, be told by the angel that she was going to be the Mother of the Son of God. And then she questions how this could be, then steps out in bold faith and says, "May it done to me according to your word." Wow! What faith for a young girl whose life was all set out and now has been turned upside down.
How seriously do we take Mary's statement? By serious, I mean how many times in a day, a month, even a year do we commit by faith to accept or do something for the Lord? And then not follow through. Glad I was not called by God to do something as serious or earth shattering as Mary. However, we're going to start thinking of New Year's resolutions soon. (In fact we already should have as our new Liturgical Year began on November 27th). What about seeking from God what God might like us to do in 2017 on a spiritual and/or service plain. Maybe you already know because you've had this nagging "angel" speaking to your heart, "God is calling you to . . . ". Then with as deep a faith as Mary as you can, say, "May it be done to be according to your word."
Now this is a little different than Mary's commitment, for God intervened and changed her life. She had to say, "Yes." But in your pledge, you commit to cooperate with God and do all you can to make your journey more about God. I hope this makes sense. Regardless, just for today, stretch yourself and love your neighbor as yourself, or treat someone who may be struggling like you would want to be treated. Let you word be the Lord's word.
God Bless
Fr. Bob
How seriously do we take Mary's statement? By serious, I mean how many times in a day, a month, even a year do we commit by faith to accept or do something for the Lord? And then not follow through. Glad I was not called by God to do something as serious or earth shattering as Mary. However, we're going to start thinking of New Year's resolutions soon. (In fact we already should have as our new Liturgical Year began on November 27th). What about seeking from God what God might like us to do in 2017 on a spiritual and/or service plain. Maybe you already know because you've had this nagging "angel" speaking to your heart, "God is calling you to . . . ". Then with as deep a faith as Mary as you can, say, "May it be done to be according to your word."
Now this is a little different than Mary's commitment, for God intervened and changed her life. She had to say, "Yes." But in your pledge, you commit to cooperate with God and do all you can to make your journey more about God. I hope this makes sense. Regardless, just for today, stretch yourself and love your neighbor as yourself, or treat someone who may be struggling like you would want to be treated. Let you word be the Lord's word.
God Bless
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent, December 19, 2016
"My mouth shall be filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory! Ps 71
Advent is all about looking up; looking for the star to lead us to Bethlehem. No, this is a gentle reminder we need to look up. When we see (hopefully a clear night sky) the multiple stars in the sky (Remember God's promise to Abraham?), hopefully we are filled we awe and wonder. Did you know there is a planet called the "Diamond Planet"? The surface is not water and earth, but a hard graphite like a diamond and, of course, hard as a diamond. Regardless of the astronomer's findings, isn't this amazing? First of all that God has gifted human beings with the ability to search and find another planet unique in our universe? Secondly, that we have the technology to see it and examine it. And, finally, that it is even part of our universe? How did it get there? Who created it? Is there some form of life on it. We should be filled with wonder and awe, and our search to figure out these answers lead us to the fact that we are part of something far bigger than ourselves and our earth. So who's keeping this all going? Yes, our incredible God. And we should open our mouths and declare God's praise. It's amazing
During Advent there are so many miracle stories in both the Old and New Testament. Do you know about the birth of Samson from the Book of Judges (Ch. 3)? Then we have Abraham and Sarah, Elizabeth and Zechariah, and Mary and Joseph. And there are more. When we read their story, we should be filled with wonder and awe. Just read the annunciation to Mary, and her response, "Yes, let it be done to me as you will."
However, we don't want to miss the miracles in our own daily lives. Can you list 10 of the miracles in your world? Do so today. They are all part of the Advent Adventure.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
The Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 18, 2016
“Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.” Matt 1:19
Talk about a crisis. Your fiancé is pregnant – and not by you! You’re a principled man faithful to the law. The law says you don’t have to marry her but could choose to divorce her publicly and have her stoned to death. Undoubtedly you’re the topic of conversation at Gideon’s Bar and Grill. Much less all the opinions coming from family members on both sides as well as friends and acquaintances. What is one to do!
Haven’t we all been caught in a crisis before – maybe not as bad as Joseph’s or maybe even worse. Fortunately or unfortunately, our best or worst witness of faith comes during a time of crisis. We either move ahead in the freedom of knowing God’s plan will unfold and lead us on the right path, or we can become bitter and cynical because of this crisis we have been dealt. Sure there’s in between stages too: worry, hand wringing, griping, complaining, self-pity, “what ifs”, blaming, accusing – all those very human emotions.
Joseph gives us a heroic example. In a dream an angel appears and tells him all will be well. He responds to this voice of God with faith to the crisis in his life. He takes Mary into his home as his wife. No doubt he did a lot of tossing and turning during the night. But what we need to see is Joseph listened to the voice in his heart. He didn’t analyze and question; he got up and moved ahead in faith.
That’s pretty heroic given the circumstances. How about let us look today for a much smaller than life possibility than Joseph’s. Maybe for us, the plan may be to slow down and listen to the voice of God that comes to us from one of our children who may need a few extra minutes. Maybe the voice is an elderly person who could use a call or visit. Maybe the voice is our spouse or a friend who just needs a hug and an affirmation that he or she is important. The key is to slow down – especially with two days till Christmas. Give yourself a break and 10 deep breaths and listen to the inner voice – the angel of Joseph’s dream – and see whom God has in store for you to take into the home of your heart.
God bless.
Fr. Bob
Haven’t we all been caught in a crisis before – maybe not as bad as Joseph’s or maybe even worse. Fortunately or unfortunately, our best or worst witness of faith comes during a time of crisis. We either move ahead in the freedom of knowing God’s plan will unfold and lead us on the right path, or we can become bitter and cynical because of this crisis we have been dealt. Sure there’s in between stages too: worry, hand wringing, griping, complaining, self-pity, “what ifs”, blaming, accusing – all those very human emotions.
Joseph gives us a heroic example. In a dream an angel appears and tells him all will be well. He responds to this voice of God with faith to the crisis in his life. He takes Mary into his home as his wife. No doubt he did a lot of tossing and turning during the night. But what we need to see is Joseph listened to the voice in his heart. He didn’t analyze and question; he got up and moved ahead in faith.
That’s pretty heroic given the circumstances. How about let us look today for a much smaller than life possibility than Joseph’s. Maybe for us, the plan may be to slow down and listen to the voice of God that comes to us from one of our children who may need a few extra minutes. Maybe the voice is an elderly person who could use a call or visit. Maybe the voice is our spouse or a friend who just needs a hug and an affirmation that he or she is important. The key is to slow down – especially with two days till Christmas. Give yourself a break and 10 deep breaths and listen to the inner voice – the angel of Joseph’s dream – and see whom God has in store for you to take into the home of your heart.
God bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Saturday of the Third week of Advent, December 17, 2016
“My heart exults in the Lord, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory.” (1Sam 2)
I am so pumped! This is such a great season with the lights and the trees and the gift giving. People, in so many ways, reach out.
Yes, there is sadness around us caused by human choices directly or indirectly. However, if we remain close to our God, God comes in to make lemonade out of the lemons. Look at the birth of Jesus. To the casual observer, what a horrible place to be born – a smelly stable with animals around and the only visitors are outcast shepherds. But God has taken the incredible event and today, 2000 years later, the world still revolves around that incredible event.
A couple of ideas. You might be at the point where you are looking down struggling under all that you still have to do. Stop for a moment and literally count your blessings. Many are there when we remove the blinders. Write them down if you have to.
Secondly, I hope you have a Nativity scene up in your home. Spend a few moments looking upon it. Place yourself in the lives of the various people: how do you think Mary and Joseph are feeling? Do you think they even care now that they are in a stable with the birth of their son? What about the Shepherds? Even the animals. Tell the story in your own words to your heart.
Truly let the Lord swallow up your enemies (whatever they may be). We have today. We have this Christmas Season. Rejoice and exult and exalt! God is good.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Friday of the Third week of Advent, December 16, 2016
“But who am I that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:43)
These are the beautiful words of Elizabeth as she greets Mary who has come to her home after Mary has heard from the angel that Elizabeth, too, is pregnant. Elizabeth is so honored and humbled that Mary, the mother of her Lord, is coming to visit her.
This works for me on two different levels. First of all, do I really realize that Jesus came to be with each of us in a special way a little over 2000 years ago? Do I really realize what it means for my life that God became man? Am I ready to receive Him as a special visitor 4 days from now? Unlike with Mary who carried Him in her womb, Jesus came face to face with humanity and continues to desire for us to enter into a full and intimate relationship with Him today. On Christmas Day, He renews that covenant, that unbreakable bond, He made by “pitching His tent” among us 2100 years ago. Christmas is our celebration that Jesus is here to dwell among us. Do I fully realize what that means to my life?
On another level, if I truly take in the meaning of this incredible Christmas event, am I honored and humbled as Elizabeth? Can I hear myself say the words of Elizabeth: “Who am I that the Lord should come to me?” Am I in awe of Jesus? Am I humbled by the fact He wishes to rest in my heart? Am I honored that the King of Kings, the Lord of Lord wants to spend His birthday with me? I know I am always honored and humbled when someone wants to share his or her birthday with me. This is such a special day in each of our lives when God’s breath was blown into us. And to celebrate the glory of the life on a person’s birthday is such a significant occasion for me. And on Christmas, Jesus Christ invites us to share in His birthday celebration: a celebration where angels sing, Kings out of faith follow a star to worship Him, shepherds leave their flocks to come and share the moment.
Why not tune up today with a verse of “Happy Birthday?” Try out how it feels to honor Jesus with this traditional song. It is His birthday coming up? And He was born for you and to you. Get ready. “O come, let us adore Him."
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Thursday of the Third week of Advent, December 15, 2016
“Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? . .He whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain.” (Psalm 24)
This is always a tough psalm for me and it comes up often in our celebrations. I think of the many sins my hands have been a part of and how impure my heart is at many times. Then I realize how difficult sometimes following the path God has set before me, because I remember how hard it is to run up hill much less the side of a mountain. But I just try to keep one foot in front of the other and some days I make more distance than others. Just want to keep ascending and not descending. Read a neat quote yesterday: “As we descend down physically as we get older, as Christians we must be aware that we are ascending up the mountain towards God.”
But the words that struck me is the last phrase: “who desires not what is vain.” How many times have you heard adults, teenagers, and children during these weeks before Christmas wish for something that you know will not be important for them in 12 months; those material things that do pass away. We so often, because we’re human, do wish for what is vain, for what really holds no lasting value.
Make sure on your list of gift giving are the gifts that have lasting value: the gifts of peace, love, joy, and hope which come from sharing time with loved ones. This could be through a thoughtful note, a phone call, a visit, or even an e-mail. Stretch and exercise your heart. Do something that touches your heart and the heart of someone else with the gift of time.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Wednesday of the Third week of Advent, December 14, 2016
(Judges 13 and Luke 1:5-25)
As I am writing this I am chuckling to myself about the difference between men and women. Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus was written long time before the 1990’s. You just have to read the Bible. If you notice, I did not put a particular Scripture quote today because the readings of the day juxtapose an Old Testament story with a New Testament story. Both involve women and men. Both involve very strange conceptions. Both involve faith.
I chuckle because in the Old Testament reading, the wife who is barren (a huge curse upon a woman) receives a message from an angel of the Lord: “’Though you are barren and have had no children, yet you will conceive and bear a son. . .It is he who will begin the deliverance of Israel from the power of the Philistines.’ The woman bore a son and named him Samson.” The woman believes, tells her husband this is what is going to happen, and it does.
Now in the New Testament reading God decides to send the angel to the man, Zechariah. Now Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth “were just in the eyes of God, blamelessly following all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord.” Zechariah is a priest of the temple! Well, you probably know the story. Zechariah goes into the temple to do his duty – it’s his turn – and the angel appears, tells him that Elizabeth who is “sterile; moreover, both were advanced in years” will bear a son. “Many of the sons of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God.” And of course, Zechariah “deeply disturbed upon seeing him, and overcome by fear,” does not believe – does not trust the words of the angels. The man Zechariah does not believe, cannot tell Elizabeth what is going to happen because he is struck mute, and it happens anyway.
Today, let’s just celebrate our differences as men and women. Allow yourself to chuckle. God has a sense of humor and loves us in our weakness! Let some of the people of the opposite sex know how much they bring joy into your life – in spite of the differences.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Tuesday of the Third week of Advent, December 13, 2016
“When Joseph awoke he did as the angel of the Lord had directed him and received her into his home as his wife.” (Matthew 1:23)
This is the “stuff” that this season is made up of. This is the “stuff” that faith is made up of. In a dream, Joseph is told that all will be well, and he is to have no fear about taking Mary as his wife for she has conceived the child by the Holy Spirit. Many people have shared with me their dreams and wonder what they mean. I, in turn, always tell them to listen to them carefully. I try to. So many events in the Bible involve God speaking to people through dreams. And if happens in the Bible, why not still today? God is the same God of yesterday, today and tomorrow. If we waver that God could speak to us in a dream, are we boxing in God? Are we limiting God?
As Joseph we have to listen to our dreams with the ears and eyes of faith. Joseph surely had to. Can you imagine Joseph wrestling with the whirlwind of events going on in his life? Here he thought he had everything in control. He was betrothed to a lovely young woman. He had his own carpentry business. He was surrounded by family and friends in the small town of Nazareth. He was a respected member of the Jewish community, known as a just man. Then – Wham! – Mary turns up pregnant, and his world is turned upside down. I am sure he was tossing and turning that night as he tried to get some sleep. Then the angel came with the message, and he believed! His faith was so simple, so reliant on God, that he ignored his rights according to the law, and takes Mary into his home as his wife. I am sure that news burned up the gossip grapevine.
God speaks to us in so many ways: through strangers, through songs, through television programs, through family and friends, through creation, and in the silence of our hearts. And sometimes the only time our hearts are silent are when we are asleep. So why not in dreams? And God’s messages are uplifting – not nightmares. Often, God just wants to say, “I love you.” Crazy as it may sound, just be aware of your dreams. I am sure some of the people of Nazareth thought Joseph crazy.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Monday of the Third week of Advent, December 12, 2016
“Thus the total number of generations is: from Abraham to David, fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian captivity, fourteen generations; from the Babylonian captivity to the Messiah, fourteen generations.” (Matthew 1:17)
I encourage you to take a look the opening 17 verses of Matthew, which is a long genealogy of Jesus. Look at it closely.
When you look at the genealogy you see there are four women mentioned in it. This is very, very unusual as women are never mentioned in a Jewish genealogy. The establishment of the bloodline of a man is through the men. So why four women? And why not the matriarchs of the Old Testament like Sarah, Rebecca, or Rachel? The four are relatively four obscure women. Probably you have heard or read about Ruth and Bathesheba, but how about Tamar and Rahab? Yet, these four women were instrumental in keeping the genealogical line of Jesus in order and moving so that the prophecy that the Messiah would come from the House of David would be fulfilled.
Nothing is impossible with God and the daring and creativity of these four women, who at times were a bit unorthodox in their actions, show that God’s plan to bring the Messiah to us will not be stopped. God can use, even what others may think are almost unsavory or unusual persons, to keep the message alive. The story of these four women can fill us with hope during this Advent season. These four women were protective of their family and their rights and stepped out in faith. And the are named in Matthew’s genealogy as key to the presence of Jesus among us.
We are and can be even more used by God to bring the message of the Messiah to others. It is not others’ work; it is ours. We may think that we are impossible or improbable messengers, but we aren’t. We just have to step out in faith and be ready to share through word or action with someone the Messiah’s message of healing love. Look for a simple way to share the message today with someone – stranger or friend. Ask God to show you who and then be ready. Bring a smile to someone’s heart. That's the message.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
When you look at the genealogy you see there are four women mentioned in it. This is very, very unusual as women are never mentioned in a Jewish genealogy. The establishment of the bloodline of a man is through the men. So why four women? And why not the matriarchs of the Old Testament like Sarah, Rebecca, or Rachel? The four are relatively four obscure women. Probably you have heard or read about Ruth and Bathesheba, but how about Tamar and Rahab? Yet, these four women were instrumental in keeping the genealogical line of Jesus in order and moving so that the prophecy that the Messiah would come from the House of David would be fulfilled.
Nothing is impossible with God and the daring and creativity of these four women, who at times were a bit unorthodox in their actions, show that God’s plan to bring the Messiah to us will not be stopped. God can use, even what others may think are almost unsavory or unusual persons, to keep the message alive. The story of these four women can fill us with hope during this Advent season. These four women were protective of their family and their rights and stepped out in faith. And the are named in Matthew’s genealogy as key to the presence of Jesus among us.
We are and can be even more used by God to bring the message of the Messiah to others. It is not others’ work; it is ours. We may think that we are impossible or improbable messengers, but we aren’t. We just have to step out in faith and be ready to share through word or action with someone the Messiah’s message of healing love. Look for a simple way to share the message today with someone – stranger or friend. Ask God to show you who and then be ready. Bring a smile to someone’s heart. That's the message.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the touch of God
The Third Sunday of Advent, December 11, 2016
“Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” (Matthew 11:1)
We have all suffered from disappointment, but the worst for me has to be when a person disappoints me. I know we’re not supposed to put expectations on others, and it is always my choice if I set myself up, but I believe it’s human nature to want to believe in others and place various levels of trust in them. So this quote of John the Baptist’s touches me. John’s whole life (from the moment of his conception!) has been to prepare the way for the Messiah. He has met Jesus, pointed Him out as the Lamb of God, and he has baptized Jesus in the Jordan. Now John is in jail, and he knows he may never get out and may even be killed, and he wonders if he placed his hopes in the wrong person: “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” And John realizes he may not have time to look for another. So he sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He is the Messiah.
As I ponder this quote I can really relate to it. Not only, I believe, is John wondering if he was wrong about Jesus, but I am sure he is questioning himself. Where did I go wrong? Did I read the signs wrong? Did I not listen to God? Have my efforts been futile? All very human questions and struggles I believe.
But John went to Jesus. He went directly to the Source to seek the answer. And he asked only one question. I would like to encourage us to go to the Source for all that is in our lives; not to wait till we spiral into the self-questioning, but to go to the Source each and every day seeking Jesus to come into every situation. To strengthen us that day to help the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers cleansed, deaf hear, dead raised, and poor receive the Good News through us. To exercise our faith in Jesus the Messiah that He is the one who has come. And, in faith, to seek Him in all our relationships and let our expectations of human nature start with Him.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Saturday of the Second Week of Advent, December 10, 20016
“Rouse your power, and come to save us.” (Ps 80)
Power. We all would have our own definitions or examples of exactly what power is. To the Israelites power was a reflection of their great King David. Someone who could conquer their enemies, unite their Kingdom, and restore peace and order. That was who they expected the Messiah to be.
Power. We have all heard different people’s ideas of God’s power or lack of power. We just need to read the newspaper the last couple of days to get a some people’s very distorted view of God’s power. But what’s ours?
Power and God. When God’s power is roused in our lives what does that look like? If as the psalmist says, rousing God’s power saves us, how does that look to each of us? Think about this. Think about times in your life where you have encountered and experienced the power of God.
I don’t want to lead you too much on your reflection today. I just remind you that the power of God came to us as a small baby born in a manger in Bethlehem among animals, and the first to come to adore Him were the shepherds, the lowlife of their society. The power of this little baby has changed the world.
Rouse your imagination. Rouse the power of God.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Friday of the Second Week of Advent, December 9, 2016
“I the Lord, your God, teach you what is for your good . . . If you would hearken to my commandments, your prosperity would be like a river . . . Your descendants would be like the sand.” (Isaiah 48:17-19)
There it is. The simple formula we need in order to prosper. In the Old Testament, Isaiah is telling his people here’s the easy way. In the Gospels, Jesus makes it very clear, simply: “Love your God with all your heart, mind, soul and body; and your neighbor as yourself.” So if we take every decision we are about to make and hold it up to this ruler, the decision is clear. Is what we are about to say and do loving towards ourselves and loving towards others. If what we do is a loving act, then we are loving God for God wants unity and peace, and the way that comes about is through loving acts.
It is so simple yet, oh so difficult, to live out. Life isn’t that simple a lot of times. And, of course, we have good old temptation in there trying to knock us off the track. St. Paul even expresses it when he comments that he knows what is right yet he still consciously chooses the opposite at times. However, just because our lives sometimes are more complicated or complex, does not mean that this ruler cannot be applied. In fact, it should be the first tool used in our personal decision-making. For example: I am frustrated with someone in my life who has not lived up to my expectations. So I don’t call or write and when I think of this person, my stomach tightens. What’s the loving thing to do? First of all towards myself? Do I want these feelings of frustration? Am I losing energy? Do I like my stomach churning? No. So what’s the loving act towards myself? Maybe to do a kind act. Maybe to send a note or card – especially during this season of peace and joy. Is that loving the other person? Yes. Might I feel better towards myself. Hopefully, yes.
I know we don’t have time to go through this process with each decision, but it might be a good way to examine our day. To hold up this ruler to our day and see if we followed God’s commandments of love; to see if we prospered in the peace and joy that a newborn baby wishes to bring us.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Thursday of the Second Week of Advent, December 8, 2016
“Heed carefully what you hear!” (Matthew 11:15)
Stop what you are doing for a moment. Just listen. What do you hear? Do you have the radio on or some music playing? Is the television on? Is some office noise in the background? Or are you home and the kids playing? Is the heater running? You computer printer printing? The hum of your computer? Do you hear the street noise? Stop and listen. “Heed carefully what you hear!”
I just want you to be aware for a moment, as I have, just how much noise there is in the background and foreground of our lives. Even early in the morning, which is a quiet time for me, I am aware of many invading noises. Jesus had a much different point when he exclaimed to the crowds to “Heed carefully what you hear!” He wanted the crowds to heed the words of John the Baptist. Jesus is the Lamb of God. Jesus is the one for whom they have been waiting for centuries. Heed John’s message: repent, come back, change your life, and recognize Jesus.
I am sure you know where I am going. So many sounds and noises and words and more words drown out the message that Jesus has for us today. And as I sit in as quiet as possible, I hear Jesus say, “Peace be with you.” Jesus wishes us to receive from Him a peace that is beyond all understanding. A peace that the world cannot give. A peace in knowing that God became man and dwelt among us. A peace that comes when holding a newborn baby.
What’s the message that Jesus has for you today? You can share mine of peace. But I bet Jesus has one just for you. We just have to “Heed carefully what you hear!” That means, block out as much of the noise as possible: turn off all noise than you can, sit down, lay down, and hear the message of the day just for you.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent, December 7, 2016
"They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles’ wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
A while back, the police were on the outlook for a person who had killed one of the protected bald eagles in our state. It was so sad to see this magnificent creation of God slain by someone else’s disregard for life. When I came to the readings for today, I could not get this image out of my mind as I read Isaiah’s words: “. . .they will soar as with eagles’ wings. . .” This eagle will obviously not soar again, and sadly, we down here will not be able to hold the beauty of this eagle soaring high up in the sky that lifts our minds and hearts and spirits which sometimes get earthbound. Do we lose hope?
Isaiah’s people have every reason to have lost hope: they were captured, their temple, the center of their lives, was destroyed, and they were taken into exile into a foreign country they knew nothing about and became outcasts once again. Isaiah is asking them to reach down deep within themselves and touch that hope in their souls that will renew their strength and allow them to look up and soar and imagine the day when they will get to return to their homeland. And that will come soon. Did they lose hope?
Last night I was watching the Christmas show of one of the weekly hour long dramas. It was all about the hope this season brings; and one of the characters said that if we believe that love never dies then we never lose hope in the moment we are living. Hope is so essential to our outlook on life. But love is the linchpin. “Love is that fire that kindles our faith to believe, and love is the light which turns hope into certainty.” We are preparing to remember the birth of Jesus. The reason He came was to love us. His hope was that His love would enkindle our faith to believe in Him as the Messiah, the Son of God. Then that faith-filled love would spread like a warm, wonderful light because we could walk in the certainty that we are loved unequivocally by our God who will help us run and not grow weary; walk and not grow faint.
Do we lose hope? Did the Israelites lose hope? No. Why not? Because the love of our God moves across all times and places. The love of our God was there in our past, is now in the present, and forever will be ahead for us in our future. Our faith is based on this never-ending love. Our hope is certain because of this never-ending love.
Losing hope a little? Even if not, just check out all the love which surrounds you. They are all signs from God that His love is everlasting.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Isaiah’s people have every reason to have lost hope: they were captured, their temple, the center of their lives, was destroyed, and they were taken into exile into a foreign country they knew nothing about and became outcasts once again. Isaiah is asking them to reach down deep within themselves and touch that hope in their souls that will renew their strength and allow them to look up and soar and imagine the day when they will get to return to their homeland. And that will come soon. Did they lose hope?
Last night I was watching the Christmas show of one of the weekly hour long dramas. It was all about the hope this season brings; and one of the characters said that if we believe that love never dies then we never lose hope in the moment we are living. Hope is so essential to our outlook on life. But love is the linchpin. “Love is that fire that kindles our faith to believe, and love is the light which turns hope into certainty.” We are preparing to remember the birth of Jesus. The reason He came was to love us. His hope was that His love would enkindle our faith to believe in Him as the Messiah, the Son of God. Then that faith-filled love would spread like a warm, wonderful light because we could walk in the certainty that we are loved unequivocally by our God who will help us run and not grow weary; walk and not grow faint.
Do we lose hope? Did the Israelites lose hope? No. Why not? Because the love of our God moves across all times and places. The love of our God was there in our past, is now in the present, and forever will be ahead for us in our future. Our faith is based on this never-ending love. Our hope is certain because of this never-ending love.
Losing hope a little? Even if not, just check out all the love which surrounds you. They are all signs from God that His love is everlasting.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Tuesday of the Second Week of Advent, December 6, 2016
"Just so, it is no part of your heavenly Father’s plan that a single one of these little ones shall ever come to grief.” (Matthew 18:14)
“Good Grief!” I cannot remember if this was an exasperated expletive of Charlie Brown or Linus in the “Peanut” cartoon series. However, I couldn’t help but think of this and see the character throw his hands over his head especially in reaction to some needling of Lucy. For Charlie or Linus, this was not “good grief” to have this little girl always seem to have the last word.
I thought of this in light of the Good Shepherd story from today’s Gospel: the one about the shepherd who goes after one and leaves the 99. To all the other shepherds watching this shepherd leave, I am sure there were some that threw their hands up and said, “Good Grief! Look what that lunatic is doing now!”
But you know, for us as followers of Jesus Christ, this message is “Good Grief!” to us. When we are in the midst of a chaotic situation, when life seems to be pulling against us, when our own sheep are out there lost in their world, we know that the “grief” is real for us, but that it is “Good Grief!” because our God is in it with us searching with us for the answer, trying to show us the way, out searching for the lost soul right along with us. God helps make our grief good by sustaining us with the strength we need for a situation. We later look back and wonder how we made it, but we know it’s the “Good”-ness of God in the midst of our “Grief” who is there with us.
Maybe reflect a little today on one of those grief-filled times and realize how your faith in God helped you through it. Then maybe look for an opportunity to share that time with someone who may be ready to throw up his or her hands and yell, “Good Grief!”
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
I thought of this in light of the Good Shepherd story from today’s Gospel: the one about the shepherd who goes after one and leaves the 99. To all the other shepherds watching this shepherd leave, I am sure there were some that threw their hands up and said, “Good Grief! Look what that lunatic is doing now!”
But you know, for us as followers of Jesus Christ, this message is “Good Grief!” to us. When we are in the midst of a chaotic situation, when life seems to be pulling against us, when our own sheep are out there lost in their world, we know that the “grief” is real for us, but that it is “Good Grief!” because our God is in it with us searching with us for the answer, trying to show us the way, out searching for the lost soul right along with us. God helps make our grief good by sustaining us with the strength we need for a situation. We later look back and wonder how we made it, but we know it’s the “Good”-ness of God in the midst of our “Grief” who is there with us.
Maybe reflect a little today on one of those grief-filled times and realize how your faith in God helped you through it. Then maybe look for an opportunity to share that time with someone who may be ready to throw up his or her hands and yell, “Good Grief!”
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Monday of the Second Week of Advent, December 5, 2016
“Seeing their faith, Jesus said, ‘My friend, your sins are forgiven you.’” (Luke 5:21)
This is the story of the paralytic man whose friends bring him to Jesus to be healed. They can’t get close to Jesus because of the crowd so they go up on the roof and lower their friend on the mat down to Jesus. Then notice what Jesus does, “Seeing their faith,” Jesus forgives the man’s sins. The faith of the friends is what moves Jesus to forgive the man’s sins.
This speaks volumes to me of the importance of strong friends on The Way with us and of community. We cannot live this life alone. We need each other. Often young adults say Mass is boring. It’s something my parents make me do. What about my free will? Many of the same questions most of us as teenagers asked.
However, this story gives us a good reason why. When we are paralyzed with whatever life deals us, we need our community to help sustain us and bring us to Jesus. When we cannot pray; when we are wandering out in the desert, we need to be in the midst of people who can carry us and help us move towards Jesus. This is most evident when a person is really sick and suffering or when a loved one dies. The community, in both of these incidents, does step in to support materially, physically, spiritually and emotionally. This nurturing helps the person struggling to make it through to the other side: out of the darkness back into the light.
We build this community by gathering together regularly, praying together, giving thanks together, and deepening our relationship with one another and with Jesus. Sure, we can do this on our own outside of Church, but do we? Do we let our busyness get in the way? Do we discipline ourselves on our own to spend time with Jesus and some of His followers? Or is time with Jesus the first to get cut out of the equation? (Sort of like exercise). With Church, we know the time and the place and when we schedule it in as part of our lives, we follow through. And thus we build relationships regularly which we can receive and give to in the difficult times. The faith of our community is honored by Jesus.
Double check your schedule. Review your support community. Do you have one in place that would pick up your mat and carry you to Jesus because they know this is what you would want?
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
This speaks volumes to me of the importance of strong friends on The Way with us and of community. We cannot live this life alone. We need each other. Often young adults say Mass is boring. It’s something my parents make me do. What about my free will? Many of the same questions most of us as teenagers asked.
However, this story gives us a good reason why. When we are paralyzed with whatever life deals us, we need our community to help sustain us and bring us to Jesus. When we cannot pray; when we are wandering out in the desert, we need to be in the midst of people who can carry us and help us move towards Jesus. This is most evident when a person is really sick and suffering or when a loved one dies. The community, in both of these incidents, does step in to support materially, physically, spiritually and emotionally. This nurturing helps the person struggling to make it through to the other side: out of the darkness back into the light.
We build this community by gathering together regularly, praying together, giving thanks together, and deepening our relationship with one another and with Jesus. Sure, we can do this on our own outside of Church, but do we? Do we let our busyness get in the way? Do we discipline ourselves on our own to spend time with Jesus and some of His followers? Or is time with Jesus the first to get cut out of the equation? (Sort of like exercise). With Church, we know the time and the place and when we schedule it in as part of our lives, we follow through. And thus we build relationships regularly which we can receive and give to in the difficult times. The faith of our community is honored by Jesus.
Double check your schedule. Review your support community. Do you have one in place that would pick up your mat and carry you to Jesus because they know this is what you would want?
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
2nd Sunday of Advent, December 4, 2016
“John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the desert of Judea…” (Matthew 3:1)
All of us have our own picture of John the Baptist: camel’s hair tunic, eating locusts and wild honey, warning of the coming wrath. However, something interesting hit me as I re-read this passage. John was preaching in the desert. The Isaiah prophecy about him says, “A voice of one crying out in the desert.” And we are told, “. . . all Judea, the whole region around the Jordan were going out to him . . .” Now that’s a large area which would include a lot of people. And they went out into the “desert” to hear him. The people most probably went on foot, maybe some had a camel or a donkey, but, regardless, they went out to the “desert.”
I guess what stopped me was questioning myself if I would go out to the desert to see anyone. I mean a desert – at least the way I understand it – is very hot, very dry, with no shade and the burning sun beating down on you. (I definitely would want to jump in the river sins or no sins.) But what has me wondering is if Matthew is referring to a personal desert. If these people were so thirsty for the truth, so parched from their sins, so dry and weathered from their burdens that they were seeking a change in their lives. In other words, the desert was more than just a geographical reality – it was a reality of each person’s heart.
This really makes sense to me, whether Matthew meant it or not. We all have our “desert” times: those times where our prayer doesn’t seem to be connecting; times we wonder if God’s listening; times we are so spiritually dry. We desire to jump into the river and feel once again the embrace and love of our God. We just can’t find the river. We just can’t hear the “voice” crying in the desert. So what do we do during those times?
This is the hard part. We have patience. We wait upon the Lord. We are still and wait for God. We try not to agonize. We try to remain faithful knowing God is with us – we’re not alone or “deserted”. We try to keep the “sun screen” on through prayer, faithful attendance at Church to be in community, spiritual reading including the Bible, and surrounding ourselves with good people who support us. We walk by faith knowing that we’re going to fall into the river of life again soon. As Isaiah tells us, “The desert. . .will bloom with abundant flowers.”
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
I guess what stopped me was questioning myself if I would go out to the desert to see anyone. I mean a desert – at least the way I understand it – is very hot, very dry, with no shade and the burning sun beating down on you. (I definitely would want to jump in the river sins or no sins.) But what has me wondering is if Matthew is referring to a personal desert. If these people were so thirsty for the truth, so parched from their sins, so dry and weathered from their burdens that they were seeking a change in their lives. In other words, the desert was more than just a geographical reality – it was a reality of each person’s heart.
This really makes sense to me, whether Matthew meant it or not. We all have our “desert” times: those times where our prayer doesn’t seem to be connecting; times we wonder if God’s listening; times we are so spiritually dry. We desire to jump into the river and feel once again the embrace and love of our God. We just can’t find the river. We just can’t hear the “voice” crying in the desert. So what do we do during those times?
This is the hard part. We have patience. We wait upon the Lord. We are still and wait for God. We try not to agonize. We try to remain faithful knowing God is with us – we’re not alone or “deserted”. We try to keep the “sun screen” on through prayer, faithful attendance at Church to be in community, spiritual reading including the Bible, and surrounding ourselves with good people who support us. We walk by faith knowing that we’re going to fall into the river of life again soon. As Isaiah tells us, “The desert. . .will bloom with abundant flowers.”
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the touch of God
Saturday of the First Week of Advent, December 3, 2016
“The reign of God is at hand.” (Matthew 10:8)
This proclamation we hear a lot during the Season of Advent. John the Baptist comes screaming out of the desert reminding the people of this. Many times Jesus proclaims this line as he teaches the people of Galilee and so we hear these particular Bible stories during this time before Christmas. What does this line mean to us? Where do our minds and hearts go when we allow ourselves to pause and reflect on the words?
Do we go heavenward? Do we reflect on what heaven must be like and the time when that eternal reign of God will be here? Do we hear these words and tell ourselves, “Be ready?” Or do we stay here on earth? Do we reflect that heaven is here on earth? Do we ponder that the reign of God is at hand right here and right now? Do we hear these words and ask ourselves, “What am I doing?” to build the reign of God here?
Whichever direction you go, or maybe you go both, I would just like to keep us here on earth for today. During this Advent and Christmas Season, many signs exist that the reign of God is at hand here. So many charities and good will drives happen to bring clothes and food to those in need during this time. Events and stories abound of people helping people. It’s wonderful. All signs of the reign of God is alive here now.
Let’s get closer to home. And I am sure all of you in some way are part of some charitable giving. Our Church through our SVDP is ready to respond to the needs of others. However, let’s narrow the focus directly on us as individuals. Are we charitably giving of ourselves without extending a dollar or lifting a finger? Are we giving of our hearts with kind words and/or a smile to the person behind the counter serving us in the stores? Are we giving of our hearts by extending a smile or a nod of greeting as we go by shoppers? Are our “Excuse me’s”, “Pleases,” and “Thank Yous” more evident these days? Are our hugs and handshakes and eye to eye contact a little stronger, warm and heartfelt? Are we saying, “God bless you” more as we drive or walk and see strangers along our way?
I believe these are all small but strong evidences of the reign of God being here at hand on a moment by moment, day by day basis that need to be happening daily for all of our lives. GO! The reign of God is in your hand -- and heart!
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Do we go heavenward? Do we reflect on what heaven must be like and the time when that eternal reign of God will be here? Do we hear these words and tell ourselves, “Be ready?” Or do we stay here on earth? Do we reflect that heaven is here on earth? Do we ponder that the reign of God is at hand right here and right now? Do we hear these words and ask ourselves, “What am I doing?” to build the reign of God here?
Whichever direction you go, or maybe you go both, I would just like to keep us here on earth for today. During this Advent and Christmas Season, many signs exist that the reign of God is at hand here. So many charities and good will drives happen to bring clothes and food to those in need during this time. Events and stories abound of people helping people. It’s wonderful. All signs of the reign of God is alive here now.
Let’s get closer to home. And I am sure all of you in some way are part of some charitable giving. Our Church through our SVDP is ready to respond to the needs of others. However, let’s narrow the focus directly on us as individuals. Are we charitably giving of ourselves without extending a dollar or lifting a finger? Are we giving of our hearts with kind words and/or a smile to the person behind the counter serving us in the stores? Are we giving of our hearts by extending a smile or a nod of greeting as we go by shoppers? Are our “Excuse me’s”, “Pleases,” and “Thank Yous” more evident these days? Are our hugs and handshakes and eye to eye contact a little stronger, warm and heartfelt? Are we saying, “God bless you” more as we drive or walk and see strangers along our way?
I believe these are all small but strong evidences of the reign of God being here at hand on a moment by moment, day by day basis that need to be happening daily for all of our lives. GO! The reign of God is in your hand -- and heart!
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Friday of the First Week of Advent, December 2, 2016
“Those who err in spirit shall acquire understanding, and those who find fault shall receive instruction.” (Isaiah 29:24)
Isaiah is a key player during the Season of Advent. His vision of the world yet to come for his people when they return to their land after their exile is to be a glimpse of the heaven that awaits us. The interesting thing is that even though he gives us this vision, he also makes us look at ourselves here and now. As I read this beautiful selection, I had to stop to ask myself, “Am I one of those who err in spirit and will need to acquire understanding?” “Am I one who finds fault and going to need instruction?” Didn’t take me long to answer those questions!
So I first had to reflect on why these failings. My “errs in spirit” are because I do lack understanding. Why is that? Is it because I am in too big a hurry to wait for a fuller understanding? Is it because I think I know all the answers and my way is the best? Is it because I am too proud to ask for help? I could go on and on but I know you get the point. How about “finding fault.” Unfortunately, this one is even easier to figure out the questions. Is it because I want to be in control and want to divert attention away from my mistakes? Is it because I don’t want to look bad? Is pride involved again here?
We’re all on a journey towards Isaiah’s vision of heaven, and we’re all going to stumble and fall. Fortunately, through Jesus Christ we know we have His unconditional, faithful forgiveness. And maybe that’s what Isaiah was trying to help his people and us to see. Yes, we’re caught in our sinfulness here, and we must be very aware how we treat others in our lives. However, in heaven we’ll be able to relax. If we’ve struggled here with “errs in spirit” or “finding fault”, in heaven is where those “sins” will no longer be part of us. We are not going to make a wrong choice. In fact, maybe we won’t even have to choose because all will be so obvious to us. We won’t have to “find fault” with others because of our own insecurities because we will be so secure in the love of our God.
Now that vision cannot divert our focus from here and now. As we await the Kingdom of heaven, we are called to build up the Kingdom here on earth by working with ourselves to seek understanding of others, to not find fault with others out of our own defensiveness. Take a couple of minutes today to ask Jesus for the gift of understanding with a situation you are really struggling with. Listen to the instruction. For the Kingdom is here and now, as well as yet to come. That’s what Advent reminds us.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
So I first had to reflect on why these failings. My “errs in spirit” are because I do lack understanding. Why is that? Is it because I am in too big a hurry to wait for a fuller understanding? Is it because I think I know all the answers and my way is the best? Is it because I am too proud to ask for help? I could go on and on but I know you get the point. How about “finding fault.” Unfortunately, this one is even easier to figure out the questions. Is it because I want to be in control and want to divert attention away from my mistakes? Is it because I don’t want to look bad? Is pride involved again here?
We’re all on a journey towards Isaiah’s vision of heaven, and we’re all going to stumble and fall. Fortunately, through Jesus Christ we know we have His unconditional, faithful forgiveness. And maybe that’s what Isaiah was trying to help his people and us to see. Yes, we’re caught in our sinfulness here, and we must be very aware how we treat others in our lives. However, in heaven we’ll be able to relax. If we’ve struggled here with “errs in spirit” or “finding fault”, in heaven is where those “sins” will no longer be part of us. We are not going to make a wrong choice. In fact, maybe we won’t even have to choose because all will be so obvious to us. We won’t have to “find fault” with others because of our own insecurities because we will be so secure in the love of our God.
Now that vision cannot divert our focus from here and now. As we await the Kingdom of heaven, we are called to build up the Kingdom here on earth by working with ourselves to seek understanding of others, to not find fault with others out of our own defensiveness. Take a couple of minutes today to ask Jesus for the gift of understanding with a situation you are really struggling with. Listen to the instruction. For the Kingdom is here and now, as well as yet to come. That’s what Advent reminds us.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the touch of God
Thursday of the First Week of Advent December 1, 2016
“A strong city have we; he sets up walls and ramparts to protect us.” (Isaiah 16:1)
Isaiah’s people are hoping to return from exile back to their homeland. Isaiah is “cheerleading” them prophesying for them what this new city will be like which will be built by God. And as I reflected on this, I couldn’t get away from the idea that God sets up “walls and ramparts to protect us.” God has created us for relationship and community. God didn’t start out with one person but with Abraham’s family. God then promised Abraham descendants as multiple as grains of sand on the shore. God did not want us to go it alone.
A baby is born into a family. I have heard so many new Moms and Dads say, “I don’t think I will ever sleep soundly again,” once the baby is born. The parents become the “walls and ramparts” to protect and nurture the growing baby. Now this also includes the extended family and friends who are brought into the baby’s life. I can almost see a human “city wall” around the baby. Then they grow so fast, the parents place the child in school for many hours a day, and the teachers and staff become part of those “walls and ramparts.” As the child grows older into the teen years, he or she begins to add their own “walls and ramparts” by building relationships. Sometimes this is very agonizing to parents as their teen begins to establish an independence away from the parents, and the parents scrutinize closely the choices but sometimes have to allow experience to be the teacher. Then as adults, ideally, those we work with become part of our “walls and ramparts” as well as sustaining family and friends. In other words, God works through other people in our lives and works through us to provide each of us with “a strong city” that we can rely on for protection.
This Season is about people. All the stories involve profound moments in the lives of people. In fact, not a lot of mention about material things except for the 3 Kings and then their gifts are so stark against the simple background of the simple. The “strong city” of people in our lives is so important to us. During this time of year, slow down and make sure we let them know how much we appreciate them. God has brought these people into our lives as gifts. Just reflect today on those people who have been your “walls and ramparts” and make a conscious decision on how you will acknowledge the gift of their lives in the coming days: not necessarily with a gift but with your “presence.”
God Bless
Fr. Bob
A baby is born into a family. I have heard so many new Moms and Dads say, “I don’t think I will ever sleep soundly again,” once the baby is born. The parents become the “walls and ramparts” to protect and nurture the growing baby. Now this also includes the extended family and friends who are brought into the baby’s life. I can almost see a human “city wall” around the baby. Then they grow so fast, the parents place the child in school for many hours a day, and the teachers and staff become part of those “walls and ramparts.” As the child grows older into the teen years, he or she begins to add their own “walls and ramparts” by building relationships. Sometimes this is very agonizing to parents as their teen begins to establish an independence away from the parents, and the parents scrutinize closely the choices but sometimes have to allow experience to be the teacher. Then as adults, ideally, those we work with become part of our “walls and ramparts” as well as sustaining family and friends. In other words, God works through other people in our lives and works through us to provide each of us with “a strong city” that we can rely on for protection.
This Season is about people. All the stories involve profound moments in the lives of people. In fact, not a lot of mention about material things except for the 3 Kings and then their gifts are so stark against the simple background of the simple. The “strong city” of people in our lives is so important to us. During this time of year, slow down and make sure we let them know how much we appreciate them. God has brought these people into our lives as gifts. Just reflect today on those people who have been your “walls and ramparts” and make a conscious decision on how you will acknowledge the gift of their lives in the coming days: not necessarily with a gift but with your “presence.”
God Bless
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the touch of God
Wednesday of the First Week of Advent, November 30, 2016
“On this mountain he will destroy the veil that veils all peoples. . .” (Isaiah 25:7)
How many times have you heard someone say, “When I get to heaven, the first question I am going to ask God is . . ?” Or, “Why does God allow this? How does this work into God’s plan?” That’s what Isaiah is saying here. When we get to heaven, everything here that causes us questions, we are going to see clearly the reason or the entire purpose with no distortion. The veil that shields our eyes now will be destroyed.
So what do we do while we are waiting? We must have faith. Scripture tells us each of us have been given the faith we need for our journey here on earth. However, we need to exercise our faith. Our reason can only take us so far in trying to understand events or people in our lives, then at some point we can go no further, but have to have faith in a God whom we know has all the answers and in whom we put our trust. If we don’t exercise our faith, then we could easily become bitter, angry, or cynical – or all three for that matter and more -- out of frustration because we just can’t figure it out. When we get to that “just can’t figure it out stage”, we have to “give it up” and turn it over to God and rely on Isaiah’s words, “. . .he will destroy the veil that veils . . .”
This is a Season of faith. Angels telling a young girl she will conceive a child – the Son of the Most High God -- through the power of the Holy Spirit? A man named Joseph who has every right not to marry her changes his mind because of another angel in a dream? Shepherds who have a vision of angels? Kings who follow a star for thousands of miles? Interesting isn’t it, that many of the images of the Season all force us to look heavenward. Like that is where the answers will be found – one day when we are there.
Let’s exercise our faith today. Lots of very crazy and sad things are going on in our world. Maybe some things are going on in your personal life that are crazy right now to you. Events you just don’t understand. All of us have those big question marks at some place in our lives right now. Take a moment today to close your eyes, ask God to help you exercise the faith you need for that situation, open your hands and imagine “it” going heavenward, and seek instead the peace of heart that comes from that faith. Do it over and over till the peace comes – and it will.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
So what do we do while we are waiting? We must have faith. Scripture tells us each of us have been given the faith we need for our journey here on earth. However, we need to exercise our faith. Our reason can only take us so far in trying to understand events or people in our lives, then at some point we can go no further, but have to have faith in a God whom we know has all the answers and in whom we put our trust. If we don’t exercise our faith, then we could easily become bitter, angry, or cynical – or all three for that matter and more -- out of frustration because we just can’t figure it out. When we get to that “just can’t figure it out stage”, we have to “give it up” and turn it over to God and rely on Isaiah’s words, “. . .he will destroy the veil that veils . . .”
This is a Season of faith. Angels telling a young girl she will conceive a child – the Son of the Most High God -- through the power of the Holy Spirit? A man named Joseph who has every right not to marry her changes his mind because of another angel in a dream? Shepherds who have a vision of angels? Kings who follow a star for thousands of miles? Interesting isn’t it, that many of the images of the Season all force us to look heavenward. Like that is where the answers will be found – one day when we are there.
Let’s exercise our faith today. Lots of very crazy and sad things are going on in our world. Maybe some things are going on in your personal life that are crazy right now to you. Events you just don’t understand. All of us have those big question marks at some place in our lives right now. Take a moment today to close your eyes, ask God to help you exercise the faith you need for that situation, open your hands and imagine “it” going heavenward, and seek instead the peace of heart that comes from that faith. Do it over and over till the peace comes – and it will.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
Tuesday of the First Week of Advent, November 29, 2016
”The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding, a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the Lord . . .” (Isaiah 11:2-3)
Six attributes: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge and fear of the Lord. Isaiah about 3000 years ago sure knew human nature when he identified these six attributes. He knew that if a person was going to stay centered in the world, these would be the virtues needed to guide the person. Granted Isaiah was describing the new Israel after their exile, but Isaiah also knew for the country to succeed and not be torn again by war and terror, exile and hate, poverty and fear, these must be the guiding virtues of the people.
And it is a great list for us to ponder this Advent. We need to seek these attributes in our lives through prayer, asking God for them, and, also, to surround ourselves with people who have them. Why? If I may stretch an analogy here. Wisdom is seeing the big picture. Wisdom is stepping back out of the trees and seeing the beauty of the whole forest and recognizing that this beauty is what needs to be preserved. Understanding is recognizing we have a responsibility in this preservation of beauty. Counsel is seeking exactly how we would go about keeping the forest beautiful: our plan of action. Then the strength: to have the courage and perseverance to follow the plan. Otherwise, it’s all talk. Knowledge is digging in and doing the “homework” (getting our hands dirty) necessary to follow the counsel, to give understanding of our role, and thus to understand the wisdom of why the trees need to be taken care of.
And, finally, fear of the Lord. Not fear in the sense of knocking knees, but an awe of God that this whole plan can’t be done without God’s help. God must be the source of all of our work. Thus from our prayer comes forth our work. Now, I know that these six virtues are not a part of all of us. Thus we need one another – community – to make our journey happen. Each of us has different gifts. Mary and Joseph sure didn’t do it alone. They relied on others. Take some time today to reflect on these six virtues, asking God to strengthen those you may need strengthened, thanking God for the people in your lives who complement you, and seeking always His total involvement in your lives.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
And it is a great list for us to ponder this Advent. We need to seek these attributes in our lives through prayer, asking God for them, and, also, to surround ourselves with people who have them. Why? If I may stretch an analogy here. Wisdom is seeing the big picture. Wisdom is stepping back out of the trees and seeing the beauty of the whole forest and recognizing that this beauty is what needs to be preserved. Understanding is recognizing we have a responsibility in this preservation of beauty. Counsel is seeking exactly how we would go about keeping the forest beautiful: our plan of action. Then the strength: to have the courage and perseverance to follow the plan. Otherwise, it’s all talk. Knowledge is digging in and doing the “homework” (getting our hands dirty) necessary to follow the counsel, to give understanding of our role, and thus to understand the wisdom of why the trees need to be taken care of.
And, finally, fear of the Lord. Not fear in the sense of knocking knees, but an awe of God that this whole plan can’t be done without God’s help. God must be the source of all of our work. Thus from our prayer comes forth our work. Now, I know that these six virtues are not a part of all of us. Thus we need one another – community – to make our journey happen. Each of us has different gifts. Mary and Joseph sure didn’t do it alone. They relied on others. Take some time today to reflect on these six virtues, asking God to strengthen those you may need strengthened, thanking God for the people in your lives who complement you, and seeking always His total involvement in your lives.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
1st Monday of the first week of Advent, November 28, 2016
“Because of my relatives and friends I will say, ‘Peace be within you!’
Because of the house of the Lord, our God, I will pray for your good.”
(Psalm 122)
Prayer is so important. Probably one of the most frequent questions I get asked is, “How do I pray,” or, someone says, “I just can’t focus when I pray and I end up thinking about a lot of other things.” You can’t give up. Prayer is there to change us and not God. Prayer is building our relationship more and more with our God whom we plan on spending eternity with. Prayer is conversation with a good friend – both talking and listening – in order to get to know them better.
I like the idea of this phrase from Psalm 122 because it so simply gives us one idea of how to pray. Pray for the “good” of another person. Now God always does good for us, but what a prayer like this does is connects us with the person we are praying for and leaves the choice up to God. Sometimes we like to tell God what to do. No reason for us to do that. Just tell God to do His usual “good” work for the person. Now what would really make the prayer a stretch for us if we offered this prayer for someone we do not love as we should – or even like for that reason. Pray for their “good.”
And why do we do this? Because we are part of the house of the Lord. We are part of God’s family. We are sons and daughters of the Father; brothers and sisters of the Son. So since we have such a cherished and precious relationship, we should want to share the “good” with others, even those we struggle with. We’re “in the house.”
Take a few moments and have a conversation with our God.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
I like the idea of this phrase from Psalm 122 because it so simply gives us one idea of how to pray. Pray for the “good” of another person. Now God always does good for us, but what a prayer like this does is connects us with the person we are praying for and leaves the choice up to God. Sometimes we like to tell God what to do. No reason for us to do that. Just tell God to do His usual “good” work for the person. Now what would really make the prayer a stretch for us if we offered this prayer for someone we do not love as we should – or even like for that reason. Pray for their “good.”
And why do we do this? Because we are part of the house of the Lord. We are part of God’s family. We are sons and daughters of the Father; brothers and sisters of the Son. So since we have such a cherished and precious relationship, we should want to share the “good” with others, even those we struggle with. We’re “in the house.”
Take a few moments and have a conversation with our God.
God Bless.
Fr. Bob
Experiencing the Touch of God
1st Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2016
“I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to God’s house!”
Are you ready? Let’s go to God’s house! Let’s make a stop along the way at Bethlehem and visit once again the child in a manger who turned the world upside down and brought light into a world of darkness. But then let’s keep on going to God’s house.
You know the excitement and anticipation you have when you are headed to the house of someone really special. Maybe it’s a long time friend – maybe a new friend you are excited to get to know better – maybe a relative -- a grandparent that is very special to you. Advent is that time for us to pause and remember we are all on our way to God’s house, and to check our excitement level. We all are another year closer to our arrival at God’s house. We are all another year closer to the promise of salvation given to us by the baby of Bethlehem.
Or are we excited about all the other “things” of the Season: the cards, the gifts, the decorations, the office parties, and hundreds of other things? Those things are important, too, because hopefully they are all done in love and bring us closer together. However, the season of Advent asks us to also pause and remember the coming of the Baby of Bethlehem to the world and His invitation to God’s house. That’s why He came. To invite us to the eternal Christmas with the most incredible decorations, the best parties, and endless gifts of love that are beyond our imaginings. Maybe we misplaced the invitation in the busyness of our lives. Maybe we’ve been meaning to get ready a little more than we are. Maybe we haven’t taken the time to rejoice that we are nearer to the doorstep of God’s house.
Advent can stir us up again and renew our excitement for the incredible gift we have been given – the gift of eternal life. We can go singing and rejoicing through the Season as we wrap gifts and put up lights and spend time with loved ones, because we have already unwrapped and know the ultimate gift we are offered again and again and again – the eternal Christmas where we don’t have to do anything but rejoice we made it!
Take a few minutes to allow the Season to stir you and renew your journey.
I rejoice you are taking the trip with me!
God Bless You!
Fr. Bob
You know the excitement and anticipation you have when you are headed to the house of someone really special. Maybe it’s a long time friend – maybe a new friend you are excited to get to know better – maybe a relative -- a grandparent that is very special to you. Advent is that time for us to pause and remember we are all on our way to God’s house, and to check our excitement level. We all are another year closer to our arrival at God’s house. We are all another year closer to the promise of salvation given to us by the baby of Bethlehem.
Or are we excited about all the other “things” of the Season: the cards, the gifts, the decorations, the office parties, and hundreds of other things? Those things are important, too, because hopefully they are all done in love and bring us closer together. However, the season of Advent asks us to also pause and remember the coming of the Baby of Bethlehem to the world and His invitation to God’s house. That’s why He came. To invite us to the eternal Christmas with the most incredible decorations, the best parties, and endless gifts of love that are beyond our imaginings. Maybe we misplaced the invitation in the busyness of our lives. Maybe we’ve been meaning to get ready a little more than we are. Maybe we haven’t taken the time to rejoice that we are nearer to the doorstep of God’s house.
Advent can stir us up again and renew our excitement for the incredible gift we have been given – the gift of eternal life. We can go singing and rejoicing through the Season as we wrap gifts and put up lights and spend time with loved ones, because we have already unwrapped and know the ultimate gift we are offered again and again and again – the eternal Christmas where we don’t have to do anything but rejoice we made it!
Take a few minutes to allow the Season to stir you and renew your journey.
I rejoice you are taking the trip with me!
God Bless You!
Fr. Bob
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