Lover in the Light

Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the dark. But anyone who loves his brother is living in the light and need not be afraid of stumbling;
1Jn.2:9,10

John is writing specifically about hypocritical believers in the early Church, those who claim to be followers by their words but fail to be followers in their actions.

The greatest cause of atheism in the world today is Christians who acclaim Jesus with their lips and then walk out the door and deny him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable. (DC Talk, Jesus Freak).

Conversely, the greatest appeal of Christianity to an unbelieving world is demonstrable love. Saint John knew this. The great saints throughout the ages knew this. Do I know this?

What caught my attention to this scripture this morning was the word "stumbling". I claim to be stumbling but following. Stumbling is easy, it comes naturally. Following requires decision and effort, lest I remain in the dark. Today I choose to be a follower, an outrageous lover in the light...

Jesus, you showed what loving and living in the light means. Shine your light into my heart today that I may walk in the light.
Saint John, please pray for me.

Hear and Act

The Holy Innocents, Martyrs 
 
So Joseph got up and, taking the child and his mother with him, left that night for Egypt, where he stayed until Herod was dead.
Mt.2:14,15

Joseph is told in a dream to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus to escape Herod's murderous wrath. He obeys and so Jesus is spared from the slaughter of every male child under two in Bethlehem.

Both Old and New Testament Josephs were dreamers, in the best sense of the word. They heard God in their dreams and acted on what they heard. From both their actions came salvation for those around them.

When do I hear God? Sometimes I remember dreams, but not often. I think the most common "God hearing" time for me is during morning scripture journaling such as now. Do I act on what I hear? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. The world is quick to try and smother any revelation from my morning prayers with the dust of daily battle.

Time to recommit, one to my morning prayer time and two, to acting on what I hear.

Jesus, thank you for not leaving me to drift through my life without direction. Holy Spirit make me attentive, sensitive to what I hear from God.
Saint Joan of Arc, pray for me that I may hear and act on God's word with courage, like you.

I am Loved

My Beloved lifts up his voice, he says to me, ‘Come then, my love, my lovely one, come. For see, winter is past, the rains are over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth. The season of glad songs has come, the cooing of the turtledove is heard in our land.
Song of Songs:2,10-12

The love poem of Solomon lays the foundation for the joy of this Advent season. God is head-over-heels in love with us, with me, and pursues me.

As a male I find it difficult to accept Song of Songs is a love poem about me, that I am the "lovely one". But there it is, that's who I am to God and that's why he has saved me and is coming back for me. Oh, what great joy! My God loves me!

Jesus, let your love soak in to my very being. Then your joy shall radiate from me, that I may be an authentic witness for you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Follow the Leader

Thus says the Lord, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I, the Lord, your God, teach you what is good for you, I lead you in the way that you must go.
Is.48:17

God speaks through Isaiah to call the Israelites back into following him, not the world.

Jesus allowed himself to be led, starting with being led by Joseph through the wilderness in Mary's womb. Later in life Jesus becomes the leader, but first he was led. But even when leading, Jesus was always following his father. "I do only what my father in heaven tells me".

There's a season for following and a season for leading but it's always time for following God. In fact I am only entrusted with leading when I have my eye firmly fixed on following "The Way".

Lord Jesus, often I am like a sheep, following my own path. I turn back to you, my shepherd. Come Lord and show me the way.
Saint John of the Cross, please pray for me.

God is in Control

In the desert I will plant juniper, plane tree and cypress side by side; so that men may see and know, may all observe and understand that the hand of the Lord has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.
Is.41:19,20

Isaiah continues his great and joyful prophecy of the redemption of Israel. All peoples will come to know that God is in control.

Those who acknowledge that God is in control are in the minority in our land today. If no God then who or what? The capricious whims of chance? No wonder anxiety is on the rise.

My bedrock is God who is in control, even when bad things happen to good people. This is not all there is. God will have the last say. The end of time is a thing to look forward to. The joy of Advent comes from knowing this, expecting this, looking forward to this. The joy of Advent is mine to share, today...

Lord God, I look at the wonder of your creation and acknowledge again, you have done this. Come Lord Jesus and redeem all creation. Maranatha, come Lord Jesus come.
Saint Lucy, pray for me.

Yes

‘I am the handmaid of the Lord,’ said Mary ‘let what you have said be done to me.’ And the angel left her.
Lk.1:38

The Angel Gabriel has announced God's plan of salvation to Mary. She, on whose yes or no hung the salvation of all, hung my salvation, was scared but said yes.

It was at the very moment of Mary's yes that Jesus was conceived in her womb. She's pregnant from that point on. There's power in a "yes". Possibilities become definites when a yes is spoken to a thought or invitation. Up until then a thought is just a thought, the invitation hangs.

Today I will be a "yes" man, in the best sense of the word.

Lord, help me be an encourager, a "yes" man today that your wonderful plans may be birthed through me.
Mary, Mother of God, pray for me.

Joy and Hope

I am sure I shall see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living. Hope in him, hold firm and take heart. Hope in the Lord! 
Ps.26:14

The psalmist rejoices in the Lord as his "light and salvation, the stronghold of his life". Underpinning this joy is hope in the Lord.

Oh how sweet is the season of Advent! A time of expectancy, building joy and hope. Victor Frankl observed the people who tended to survive the death camps were those who kept hope when all else was torn away.

Today I will be a man of hope. The glass is half full for me today!

Thank you Lord for the wonderful gift of hope! You are my light and my salvation.
Saint Therese of Lisieux, pray for France and pray for me.

Hear and Proclaim

But they will not ask his help unless they believe in him, and they will not believe in him unless they have heard of him, and they will not hear of him unless they get a preacher, and they will never have a preacher unless one is sent.
Rms.10:14,15

Saint Paul describes how faith is spread. A preacher is sent, they hear the Word preached. They believe. They ask for help to confess Jesus is Lord. Then they are saved.

Faith can come by two ways. Hearing the word preached by man, hearing the word preached by creation. Faith came both ways for me and continues to come both ways. I am encouraged by preaching.  I am inspired by creation, by the fingerprints of God. Either way it is a gift.

Today I can both hear God's word through creation and proclaim God's word through my mouth.

Lord Jesus, help me hear and proclaim your word today.
Saint Andrew, please pray for me.

Lift Your Head

'And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand erect, hold your heads high, because your liberation is near at hand.’
Lk.21:27,28

Jesus is prophesying the end of time. As unbelievers "die with fear" at the destruction of the world, those invited to the wedding feast will stand with eagerness, looking forward to their liberation.

The final judgement will be final. Some being left behind not a popular message.  Yes, God wants all to be saved but his word says some won't. This gives impetus to my need to make sure many will "be there" when it counts, starting with my own family.

Jesus my Lord, help me be a fervent witness to you today that more may come to know and love you.
Teresa of Avila, please pray for me.

Grapes of Wrath

Put your sickle in and cut all the bunches off the vine of the earth; all its grapes are ripe.’ So the angel set his sickle to work on the earth and harvested the whole vintage of the earth and put it into a huge wine-press, the wine-press of God’s anger.
Apoc.14:19

John describes his vision of the judgement to occur at the end of time. The grapes are subjected to the wrath of God.

A wines-press is a method of separating the desired juice from the unwanted flesh and skins of the grapes. God's anger is to apply the pressure. Blood will flow.

The Church is reminding me very clearly of the old message given at parish missions. I have only one life to live, one death to die, one destination to reach. Is it to be heaven or hell?

How I live out today will have eternal consequences on the destination  I reach. I vote for heaven...

Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Generous

"...but she from the little she had has put in all she had to live on." 
Lk.21:4

Jesus observes the wealthy and the poor contributing money to the temple treasury. He is impressed the most by the widow who gave the least.

There's a young mum at Mass whose husband is not Catholic. She brings her four young children by herself each Sunday. Being typical young children some Sundays they are models of behaviour, some Sundays they're not. But there she is every Sunday. In some ways the young mum is a widow and she's putting in all she has. She impresses me.

What I can "put in" depends on the circumstance. It changes daily. The thing that impresses Jesus is not the amount. It's the generosity of heart. Today there will be opportunities for me to be generous.

Lord Jesus, you know how tight-fisted I can be. Help me have a generous heart with those I meet today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Favourable Time

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem and came in sight of the city he shed tears over it... 'all because you did not recognise your opportunity when God offered it!’
Lk.19:14,44

Jesus is approaching Jerusalem to the acclaim of the ordinary people. He weeps over Jerusalem, prophesying its destruction all because its leaders failed to recognise God's opportunity.

Opportunity... a favourable time. It appears there are favourable times to grasp what God is offering. Times can be missed, like missing a bus. The leaders of Jerusalem missed God in Jesus through pride, jealousy, ambition, fear. What blinds me to God's favourable times? Probably much the same.

The antidotes are virtues of humility, peacefulness, modesty and courage. These are door openers to God. Let me practice them today.

Lord Jesus, I do not want to miss God through my worldly obsessions. I open my door to you today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Cast My Crown

‘You are our Lord and our God, you are worthy of glory and honour and power, because you made all the universe and it was only by your will that everything was made and exists.’
Apoc.4:11

John is describing his prophetic revelation of what is to happen at the end of time.  God's magnificence is shown by the twenty-four elders prostrating, casting their crowns before him and declaring who he is.

As I sit here I'm looking out on a glorious spring morning, the grass looking verdant in a fresh golden sunshine. God's will has created this moment for me. I cast my crown before him crying, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who has created all that exists".

Thank you Father in Heaven for this beauty before me. Your love is evident in what you have created. I bow before you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Come Down From Your Tree

When Jesus reached the spot he looked up and spoke to him: ‘Zacchaeus, come down. Hurry, because I must stay at your house today.’ And he hurried down and welcomed him joyfully.
Lk.19:5,6

Zacchaeus was a wealthy man through extortion as a tax collector. Being short, he climbs a tree to get a glimpse of Jesus. Jesus wants to give Zacchaeus more than a glimpse. He wants to save him.

I love this story. It's so full of trivial detail that you know it's authentic. Jesus stopping and identifying with one sinful man amongst the crowd encourages me to believe that of all humanity Jesus wants to spend time with me, "stay at my house".

And Zacchaeus' response is authentic. He welcomes Jesus joyfully, not caring about the rebukes of the people. Jesus must have known his heart was ripe for conversion. Suddenly the hoarded gold is not important as he pledges restitution by giving it away. Beautiful!

Zacchaeus climbed the tree from his own effort. Jesus called him down, called him away from all his striving to be big and gave him a big heart instead. Oh, there's so much for me to learn from this...

Lord Jesus, you know what a tree-climber I am. I come down to you Lord, that you may stay with me. 
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Band of Brothers

I know you have been deprived of Onesimus for a time, but it was only so that you could have him back for ever, not as a slave any more, but something much better than a slave, a dear brother;
Philemon 15,16

Paul is writing to Philemon, pleading for his runaway slave Onesimus. The common ground for all three men is Jesus.

A rich man, a prisoner and a slave are are brought together in this drama. The solution to their problem is Jesus. In fact Jesus is more than just a solution, he is the way to glory for each of these men in the midst of their earthly problem.

What appears an insolvable and polarising problem becomes a source a great joy. The world would call Paul a dreamer, Philemon a fool and Onisimus a brigand. Going against the flow and following Jesus brings these three disparate men together in a tight bond of brotherly love.

Christian fraternity is a great treasure. I need to cherish this today. Time to let my brothers know how much I value them.

How sweet and pleasant it is when the brothers come together in unity... for it is there the Lord will command a blessing.
Saint Francis, please pray for me.

Good Leader Good Example

We must be self-restrained and live good and religious lives here in this present world, while we are waiting in hope for the blessing which will come with the Appearing of the glory of our great God and saviour Christ Jesus.
Titus2:12,13

Saint Paul writes to Titus giving instruction on leadership in the Church. Good leadership is based on good example.

Titus is to be the role model of good Christian life. If I am to fulfill my leadership in my "little church" my life must exemplify what I'm trying to teach. This time of teaching is a time of waiting for the ultimate destination of our lives; the glory of Jesus' return.

Self restraint, a good and religious life. These are my goals today.

Lord Jesus, restraint and goodness are not natural to me. Help me be an example of of virtuous living so my little church may meet you in your glory.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Search Party

The tax collectors and the sinners were all seeking the company of Jesus to hear what he had to say, and the Pharisees and the scribes complained. ‘This man’ they said ‘welcomes sinners and eats with them.’
Lk.15:1,2

Jesus welcomes sinners into his company, gaining disapproval from the Pharisees. Jesus defends his actions by telling the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin.

This Gospel is always good news for me. I would have been one that the Pharisees would have rejected. Here Jesus is reminding me he would never reject me, that in fact he has set out in search of me. I'm the lost sheep draped across Jesus shoulders as he takes me back home. Oh wonderful fault that has me placed in such a glorious position.

This also challenges my response to sinners. There's an inner conversion that takes place in a person who is genuinely accepted where they are at. The change can only rise from within, not forced from outside. "Love the person not the sin" may sound like a platitude but it is a truth nonetheless. Who can I love today.

Lord Jesus, thank you for rescuing me. Help me be part of the search party for other lost sheep. Help me find them, accept them and rejoice as they come home.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

He is worth it

‘If any man comes to me without hating his father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters, yes and his own life too, he cannot be my disciple. Anyone who does not carry his cross and come after me cannot be my disciple'.
Lk.14:26,27

Jesus is telling the crowds there is a cost to be his disciple. He must be in first place or no place.

This is one of those "hard" passages from Jesus. What?  I must hate my family? It takes a second and third reading to get what he is saying. There is a cost. But count up the cost. I am worth it. I'm worth it not only for yourself but for those I am calling you to hate.

Radio Rhema announcers sometimes say, "Put Christ first and the rest will be OK". My day will have its highs and lows but if I put Christ first then all will be OK.

Lord Jesus, I often acknowledge you with my lips then walk out and deny you by my lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable. Forgive me Lord. Help me place you first in my life today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

The Right Mix

When the time for the banquet came, he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, “Come along: everything is ready now.” But all alike started to make excuses.
Lk.14:17,18

Jesus is telling the parable of the Great Banquet as an allegory to the feast at the end of time in the Kingdom of God. In the parable, those originally invited are no longer worthy to attend.

The Church is nearing the end of its calendar year and it's view is becoming more eschatological. End of time is more the focal point of the daily readings. In today's Gospel Jesus highlights the danger of becoming too worldly. The "excuses" of life can become so great that they can exclude me from what is meant to be my final destiny, sitting at the heavenly banquet.

I'm in the world but not of it. There are worldly things I need to engage in to provide for my family but they're not the main focus of my life. The antidote is having the right mix. This morning prayer time is adding the right perspective to my life today. Attending Mass would add more of the right flavour as well. Let's schedule that in today...

Lord Jesus, I am easily seduced by the world and its demands. I want more of you in the mix of my life.
Saint Thomas Moore, please pray for me.

Happy Families

O blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways! By the labour of your hands you shall eat. You will be happy and prosper. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine in the heart of your house; your children like shoots of the olive, around your table.
Ps.128:1-3

The psalmist describes the state of being for the man who fears God. Prosperity exhibited by a happy family around a laden table.

This is the image I have of a "successful me". Sitting at the head of a well-stocked dining table, wife, children and grandchildren stretched around the table all looking to me as I bow my head in thanksgiving prayer to God. That is fulfillment, embodiment of a successful life.

I have had that very moment on numerous occasions. I am so blessed.

Father in Heaven, you have blessed my life with so much. I thank you Lord. 
Saint Thomas Moore, please pray for me.

The Gifts

And to some, his gift was that they should be apostles; to some, prophets; to some, evangelists; to some, pastors and teachers; so that the saints together make a unity in the work of service, building up the body of Christ.
Eph.4:11,12

Saint Paul writes about the maturity and unity of the Body of  Christ. Different gifts to different people but all for the single purpose of building up the Church.

It's scripture like this that makes me ask, "so, what is my gift?" I led a workshop a few weeks ago and it seemed to impact those attending. Am I a teacher? I wrote an article the other day and was told I have "away with words". An I a writer? My grandchildren gravitate to me, begging for me to read to them. Am I a grandad? I'm roistered to lead children's Liturgy next weekend. Am I an evangiliser?

Probably I'm all of the above and more, yet to be discovered.

Lord Jesus, I just want to be an authentic witness for you. Help me recognise the gifts you have given me and then have the fire in my belly to use them.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

A Life Worthy

I, the prisoner in the Lord, implore you to lead a life worthy of your vocation. Bear with one another charitably, in complete selflessness, gentleness and patience. Do all you can to preserve the unity of the Spirit by the peace that binds you together.
Eph.4:1-3

Saint Paul makes a plea for unity in the Church of Ephesus. He calls the community to be loving, selfless, gentle and patient.

Wow! I could belong to a church like that. If I'm not experiencing those virtues in my own parish, where is a place to start. With myself of course.

Lord Jesus, I want to lead a life worthy of you. Help me love, think of others first, be gentle and patient.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Laugh a Lot

Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you truly, he will place him over everything he owns.
Lk.12:43,44

Jesus is teaching his disciples to be watchful, ready for his return. The hour is unknown but the surety of his return is definite.

There is a happiness in employment, right employment. Doing the work of Jesus is a source of joy. I recently attended a men's retreat where two retired bishops were part of the leadership team. They were close to eighty and yet were still at work for the Lord. I noticed they laughed a lot.

Today I can work as though working for the Lord... and laugh a lot.

Lord Jesus, I place my work before you and ask that you be glorified in it.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Faithfulness

Mercy and faithfulness have met; justice and peace have embraced. Faithfulness shall spring from the earth and justice look down from heaven.
Ps.84:10,11

The psalmist describes the blessings of God and the virtues of man in a mutual loving embrace. Mercy and justice from God embraces the faithfulness of man and bestows peace.

For me, this describes the perfect state, that "all is well"moment when I am at peace with God and sure of his mercy and love. Faithfulness gives birth to peace. If I want mercy and peace in my life, be faithful, faithful to God and faithful to others in my life. The "spring from the earth" indicates the initiative needs to be mine.

Lord God, you are waiting for my faithfulness in order to pour down your mercy, justice and peace. Holy Spirit, empower me to be a faithful man today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Hear plus Do equals Happy

As Jesus was speaking, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said, ‘Happy the womb that bore you and the breasts you sucked!’ But he replied, ‘Still happier those who hear the word of God and keep it!’
Lk.11:27,28

Jesus has just driven out a demon and the crowd is amazed. A woman caught up with emotion shouts out what only a woman would shout in effusive praise. Jesus elevates the shouted words into a prophecy. Happiness comes with hearing the word of God and acting on it.

The highest level of happiness, joy in fact, comes with hearing and doing. This habit of morning prayer creates time for me to hear God's word. The remainder of the day gives opportunity to do it. Then joy is mine.

 Thank you Jesus for this time together. Strengthen me to now keep what I've heard.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Persist

‘So I say to you: Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him.
Lk.11:9,10

Jesus continues his teaching on prayer, having just given the Lord's Prayer. Here he emphasises persistence in prayer.

Ask, seek, knock. Prayer must be active and expectant. We ask for something, seek for something, knock on the door for something and we until we receive or find or have the door opened, we persist.

I have a prayer list that goes back a number of years. Some prayers have been answered, others not yet.  Time to persist.

Thank you Lord for your perfect timing in answering my prayers. Holy Spirit empower me to persist.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Timing

The Lord answered: ‘Martha, Martha,’ he said ‘you worry and fret about so many things, and yet few are needed, indeed only one. It is Mary who has chosen the better part; it is not to be taken from her.’
Lk10:41,42

Jesus arrives for the first time at Mary and Martha's home. Martha serves while Mary sits. Martha's indignance at her sister causes Jesus to highlight the better response to him. Sitting at his feet and listening to him.

The two sisters fall into what is their natural personalities. Martha is a server, Mary is a worshiper. I remember the Donut Man's explanation for children about this. "Martha did the right thing but at the wrong time". For all of us there is a time to serve and a time to worship. The trick is to get the timing right.

Service at the wrong time turns into worry and fret. Done from a worship-filled heart service becomes a joy, in fact an act of worship in itself. I'm sitting at the Lord's feet at this very moment in this prayer time. Service will no doubt come in my day and I will be able to do it joyfully.

Lord, help me recognise worry and fret as signs that I need to listen to you, worship you. Then peace and joy will empower my service.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Joy is Strength

It was then that, filled with joy by the Holy Spirit, he said: ‘I bless you, Father, Lord of heaven and of earth, for hiding these things from the learned and the clever and revealing them to mere children.
Lk:10:21

The seventy two have just returned from  their first mission trip which has been a resounding success. Jesus, filled with joy and the Spirit, gives all glory to God the Father.

I can just picture the wild jubilation of the returning disciples. Their work had succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. "Even the devils submitted to us when we used your name!" Jesus is filled with the Holy Spirit and responds with joy.

It seems wherever God's work is succeeding there is joy and the Spirit. I have just returned from a men's retreat where I played a small part. It was successful and by Sunday the hallmark of leaders and participants was joy, effusive joy.

Joy is from God. It's more the happiness. It's a deep, worldview changing, lifting of my spirit. Let that be my hallmark today as I look after five of my grandchildren, two still in nappies!  Yeehaw!

Lord Jesus, you are the source of my joy today. Fill me with your spirit as I minister today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Penetrating Gaze of Love

O Lord, you search me and you know me, you know my resting and my rising, you discern my purpose from afar. You mark when I walk or lie down, all my ways lie open to you.
Ps.138:1-3

The psalmist writes of the the all knowing , all powerful God who observes all activities and thoughts. God is with me wherever I go.

This truth can be both comforting and unsettling. It's comforting knowing I'm never alone. It's unsettling when I consider my less honorable thoughts and actions.  The beautiful thing here is that God loves me despite of all my small, petty and dishonorable thoughts and actions. And he loves me enough not to leave me there.

Today I walk into my day with God beside me, encouraging me, cheering me on. believing in me.

Lord Jesus, send me your Spirit to guide me today. Thank you Lord for your steadfast love.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

The Favourites of God

The Holy Guardian Angels

‘Anyone who welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. See that you never despise any of these little ones, for I tell you that their angels in heaven are continually in the presence of my Father in heaven.’
Mt.18:5,10

The disciples have asked, "Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" Jesus must have surprised them with his answer. The weakest of the weak. The lowest of the low. A little child is great in the Kingdom of heaven. Then he goes a step further, revealing that the weak have powerful advocates, angels who present their case before God Almighty himself.

I have grandchildren, nine and a half of them. I'm leading children's liturgy this weekend. I am surrounded by the favourites of God. I need to be mindful not to despise them, and I never do. I have been given a heart for them, which I see now is a gift.

And for myself, I had a guardian angel when I was a child. Does this angel leave me now I'm a man? I think not. What a blessed thought to take into my day.

Thank you Lord for my guardian angel. And thank you Lord for my heart for children. Help me welcome them as I would welcome you.
Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, pray for me.

My Love, My Fortress

Blessed be the Lord, my rock. He is my love, my fortress; he is my stronghold, my saviour my shield, my place of refuge.
Ps 143:1,2

David the psalmist writes of his saving and protecting God, a God worthy of his love.

This psalm reminds me I am in the world, not of it. I need a fortress, a stronghold, a shield, a place of refuge. This sanctuary is with me whenever and wherever I pray. It is with me now.

This is a place to give and receive love, to be nurtured, to be healed, to be built up, strengthened. It's not a place to stay. It's a place available when the need arises. However, the need arises daily. How wonderful to start my day in this place of shelter and love.

Blessed be you Lord, my rock. You are my love, my fortress; you are my stronghold, my saviour my shield, my place of refuge.

Little Flower, please pray for me.

God's Retirement Plan

Make us know the shortness of our life that we may gain wisdom of heart.
Ps.90:12

The psalmist is highlighting God's eternity and man's frailty. There is wisdom in acknowledging this.

A friend is retiring tomorrow after forty five years of work. He has planned long for financial security in his retirement, which he has achieved. However, what he hasn't planned on is his poor health.

Goals can be set and plans formed but wisdom is found in acknowledging God has the ultimate retirement plan.

Lord Jesus, help my vision always have you as its goal.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Power and Authority

Jesus called the Twelve together and gave them power and authority over all devils and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.
Lk.9:1,2

Jesus is sending the apostles out on their first mission trip. He equips (power and authority), gives the objective (preach and heal) then sends.

This is the blueprint for all Christians, the blueprint for me. I have power and authority to preach and heal.

This weekend I have a small role in a weekend men's retreat. I have been given Christ's power and authority. I have the goal. It's time to go.

Thank you Jesus for reminding me I don't need to worry. It's your power, your authority. I just go in your name.
Saint Michael the Archangel, please pray for me.

Divine Reading

‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside and want to see you.’ But he said in answer, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and put it into practice.’
Lk.8:21

Mary and Jesus' family are wanting to see him, but the crowd is so great they cannot reach him in the house. On hearing this Jesus creates a teaching from the moment. He says those who listen to God and then act on it are the family of God.

This word is in season for me. I am about to lead a workshop on Scripture Journaling, Lectio Divina. The goal of Scripture Journaling is to hear God through his word, through scripture, and then act on what I hear.

Thank you Lord for confirming the power of "divine reading" of your word in scripture. Help me Lord be an effective teacher of Scripture Journaling this weekend.

Saint Oregan, pray for me.

Forgiven Much - Love Much

'For this reason I tell you that her sins, her many sins, must have been forgiven her, or she would not have shown such great love. It is the man who is forgiven little who shows little love.’
Lk.7.47

Jesus is sitting at the table of Simon the Pharisee when he is showered with loving attention by a woman of "bad name". Simon judges both Jesus and the woman. Jesus receives the woman's love as a sign of forgiveness received. In contrast, Simon's mean spirited judgement is taken as a sign of forgiveness not sought.

Love is the fruit of forgiveness. If I want to be a great lover I must first seek and receive forgiveness. For it is forgiveness that fuels up my love tank. It's time I went to confession.

Lord Jesus, you are the source of my forgiveness and joy. 
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Spontaneous Love

When the Lord saw her he felt sorry for her. ‘Do not cry’ he said.
Lk.7:13

Jesus comes upon a funeral procession, a widow burying her only son. Jesus feels compassion for the widow and raises the son, giving him back to her.

The widow was not only facing a lifetime of grief and loneliness, she was also facing poverty. She had just entered hell on earth with the death of her son. Jesus reaches into the depths of her despair and turns everything around. Her mourning was turned into dancing.

Jesus does that. He can turn things around when they look most hopeless. His compassion seems spontaneous, out of his control. He just can't help loving.

This is the God I follow, the one in whom I place my hope.

Thank you Lord for your spontaneous love. I don't deserve it, but you give it so I receive it. Let this joy be my gift to others this day.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Cross Lifter

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross:
Feast

'The Son of Man must be lifted up as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him. Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not be lost but may have eternal life.'
Jn.3:14-16

Jesus is speaking to Nicodemus and reveals plainly what the purpose of God is in sending his son into the world. Jesus must be proclaimed, lifted up, so that people may believe and gain eternal life.

This is the game plan for every Christian. Lift Jesus up for all to see so that he may be believed in. How we lift him up is our own particular calling. Different gifts lead to different methods.

What's my gift, my method? Being a man of prayer. Expressing hope and joy. Engaging with people. Being friendly and a friend. Exercising charity. Some days these do occur naturally, other days they don't. May today be a "Do Day" that Jesus may be lifted up by me so people may believe.

Lord Jesus, I desire to lift you up today. Holy Spirit, help me be an authentic Cross Lifter today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

More to Come

Fixing his eyes on his disciples Jesus said: ‘How happy are you who are poor: yours is the kingdom of God. Happy you who are hungry now: you shall be satisfied. Happy you who weep now: you shall laugh.
Lk.6:20,21

Jesus has just chosen his twelve apostles and is now giving his first teaching. From the start he focuses on the poor, the hungry, the persecuted. He tells them, this is not the end of your story. There are more wonderful things to come.

A life of faith looks beyond the here and now, beyond the temporal. Now matter how bad it gets, no matter how good it gets there is more to come. What that "more" is depends on how I'm living the now. Is it a life of self absorption or a life of service.

I'm enjoying a beautiful spring morning. I enjoy it but I'm not absorbed by it. This is not all there is.

Lord, I do get absorbed into the worries and joys of the world. Help me keep my eyes up and focussed on you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Messiah from a Mess

Feast:  The Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Now all this took place to fulfil the words spoken by the Lord through the prophet: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call him Emmanuel, a name which means ‘God-is-with-us.’
Mt.1:22,23

The genealogy of Jesus from Abraham to Joseph is recited followed by the decisive role Joseph plays in the birth of Jesus, taking Mary as his wife. The words of the prophet Isaiah are fulfilled through the "yes" of Mary and of Joseph.

Interesting that it's the feast of Mary's birthday yet the genealogy of Joseph is listed. Joseph's family line includes the good, the bad and the downright ugly, yet God's plan came to pass through the "yes" of a "man of honour" from that mish-mash of people, Joseph. The Messiah rose up from a mess.

I guess this demonstrates that good can rise up from anywhere. This challenges the judge within me that is quick to make wrong decisions about people. God can turn up anywhere, just look at my own life.

Lord Jesus, you can turn clay into gold. Help me stop dispensing judgement and start dispensing grace.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Healing in the Telling

When Simon Peter saw this he fell at the knees of Jesus saying, ‘Leave me, Lord; I am a sinful man.’ For he and all his companions were completely overcome by the catch they had made.
Lk.5:8,9

Jesus has just finished teaching from Peter's boat.  Peter reluctantly follows Jesus' instruction to put out his net again and is then overwhelmed at the size of his catch. Peter recognises there is something of God in Jesus and falls at his feet.

Nothing happens by accident with Jesus. Of all the boats pulled up on the lake's shore he chose Peter's. He knew all about Peter's sinfulness and yet still chose him for a companion.

On the other hand, for Peter everything is accidental. Fish, no fish. Nets, no nets. But one thing he does purposefully here. He falls on his knees before Jesus and confesses his sinfulness.

What a great place to start a relationship with Jesus. This is a starting point I can return to each time I go to confession. Tell Jesus what he already knows. The healing is in the telling.

Thank you Lord that despite knowing everything about me, you still desire intimacy with me. 
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Power and Authority

‘What teaching! He gives orders to unclean spirits with authority and power and they come out.’
Lk4:36

Jesus is at the start of his ministry, is the "new thing" in town. He amazes the men in the synagogue by casting out a demon from a man.

Firstly, there was a demon in a synagogue. Devils can infiltrate sacred places with impunity.

Secondly, the demon instantly recognised not only Jesus but also his authority. Spirit sees spirit with a clarity superior to that of the flesh.

Finally, the people saw the "authority and power" of Jesus by his demonstration. Saint Paul says in the first reading that we believers have the mind of Christ and can teach with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power.

Today I can also teach by demonstration of the Spirit's power. How? By putting on the mind of Christ.

Lord help me see things as they truly are by your vision and, where appropriate, demonstrate your power and authority.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Blessedness of Labour

O blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways! By the labour of your hands you shall eat. You will be happy and prosper.
Ps.127.1,2

God is calling work a blessing given to a God fearing man. Happiness and prosperity come from work. In today's first reading Saint Paul is more direct. If a man refuses to work, don't feed him.

I've been working for forty five years. It has supported my wife and five children, truly I have been blessed.  I'm starting to yearn for an end to this work, to look forward to retirement, an exit plan. That is a natural thing in due season. Meanwhile, my work continues to be a blessing and I will regard it as such.

Lord, you know how some days at work are hard to be excited about. Help me finish the race well.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Come and See

‘He is Jesus son of Joseph, from Nazareth.’ ‘From Nazareth?’ said Nathanael ‘Can anything good come from that place?’ ‘Come and see’ replied Philip.
Jn1:45,46

Philip has met Jesus and is moved to find his friend Nathanael and invite him to meet Jesus as well. He challenges Nathanael’s initial scepticism with the ultimate invitation, “Come and see”.

Come and see. It’s gentle yet insistent. Come and see. It promises accompaniment, I won’t be going alone. Come and see has confidence in what is about to be revealed and confidence in the one invited to make their own right choice.

My invitation to people who have yet to meet Jesus, even the sceptics, is... Come and see.

Jesus, you are always ready to receive the unbeliever. Give me courage and perception to know the times to make the invitation, “Come and see”.
Saints Philip and Bartholomew, pray for me.

The Joy of Perspective

Then Peter spoke. ‘What about us?’ he said to him ‘We have left everything and followed you. What are we to have, then?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I tell you solemnly, when all is made new and the Son of Man sits on his throne of glory, you will yourselves sit on twelve thrones...'
Mt.19:27,28

The rich young man has just turned away from Jesus' challenge to give up his wealth. Jesus observes how difficult it is for the rich to enter the kingdom. The disciples are astonished at this. Peter remonstrates, "What are we to have then?" Jesus puts it all in perspective. "At the end of time..."

I get bedazzled by the now. What if we don't have enough? What then? This anxiety keeps me tight fisted or at best, a miserable giver, hardly cheerful. Jesus puts everything in perspective by reminding of what is promised at the end of time. Thrones, kingship...

I need to maintain an eschatological worldview, keeping one eye firmly on the promises of things to come at the end of time. Every tear dried, thrones bestowed, joy in abundance.

Lord Jesus, help me maintain your perspective on the clamour of now and keep the joy, the foretaste of heaven.
Little Flower please pray for me.

Forgiveness Business

His fellow servants were deeply distressed when they saw what had happened, and they went to their master and reported the whole affair to him.
Mt.18:31

Peter asks how many times he must forgive. Jesus answers with the parable of the unmerciful servant. In the parable fellow servants are distressed at the lack of mercy shown and report it to their master.

It seems forgiveness is a non-negotiable. Peter's boast of forgiveness offered seven times is eclipsed by Jesus raising the bar to seventy times seven, in other words an infinite amount. He then places it in context. We are forgiven a huge debt. How can we not forgive others?

Not only is the onus on me to always forgive but also there are witnesses who report back on my actions. And above all is a God of justice.

Today forgiveness is to be my first response.

Lord Jesus, sometimes forgiveness is hard. I want justice my way and in my time. Help me remember  that justice is your business and forgiveness is mine.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

A Great Child

It is never the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.
Mt.18:14

Jesus answers the question, who is the greatest. He uses a child to show the perfect state of one in God's Kingdom. He then elevates children saying they have a special place in the heart of God.

I led a group of fifteen children in Children's Liturgy last Sunday. There was once when I did the same for one child. Fifteen million, fifteen thousand, fifteen or one. God's will is the same. They must not be lost.

My family, my little church, has nine and a half grandchildren. My mission is to ensure not one is lost.

Lord Jesus, inflame my heart for love of the little ones in my family. Help me be childlike in my ministry to them that I may be great in your sight.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Cock-a-hoop Christian

Do not forget: thin sowing means thin reaping; the more you sow, the more you reap. Each one should give what he has decided in his own mind, not grudgingly or because he is made to, for God loves a cheerful giver.
2Cor.9:6,7

Saint Paul is writing to the fledgling Church in Corinth. He encourages them to be generous in all they do.

Synonyms for cheerful:
happy, jolly, merry, bright, glad, sunny, joyful, joyous, light-hearted, in good spirits, in high spirits, sparkling, bubbly, exuberant, ebullient, cock-a-hoop, elated, gleeful, breezy, airy, cheery, sprightly, jaunty, animated, radiant, smiling, grinning, laughing, mirthful, frolicsome.

Place any of those adjectives before giving and you are describing a Christian giver. And God loves him. Cheerful giving is a hallmark of the Christian. Stingy, begrudging giving has no place in the Church, no place in my life.

Lord Jesus, you are the greatest example of giving generously and cheerfully. Help me become more like you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Courage!

When the disciples saw him walking on the lake they were terrified. ‘It is a ghost’ they said, and cried out in fear. But at once Jesus called out to them, saying, ‘Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid.’
Mt.14:26,27

Jesus is on shore in prayer when he sees the disciples boat in trouble out on the lake in heavy sea. He walks out to them on water, terrifying them. Jesus identifies himself and calls them to believe.

‘Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid.’ This is the great call of Jesus. Fear shackles. Jesus sets free. The first fruit of faith in Jesus is courage. Courage lifts me up, calls me beyond myself, feeds my creativity. It gives the fullness of life promised by Jesus.

I face my day today in faith and courage.

Thank you Lord for your call for me to take courage, for you are with me and I never need be afraid.
Lttle Flower please pray for me.

A Better Version

And whenever the vessel he was making came out wrong, as happens with the clay handled by potters, he would start afresh and work it into another vessel, as potters do.
Jer.18:4

Jeremiah describes his vision of the potter's house. The potter reworks the clay, again and again, until he has the pot he intended.

This is a strong analogy of how God works on me. He accepts me as I am but loves me so much he doesn't leave me this way. He "reworks" me. The starting afresh can be just a slight re-smoothing or it can involve punching the clay back into ball and completely restarting.

This reworking of my clay happens through what and who God places in my day. WHen things don't go smoothly, God is at work.

Lord Jesus, help me accept the rough times in my day as moments when you are making me into a better version of myself.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Great Treasure

‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls; when he finds one of great value he goes and sells everything he owns and buys it.’
Mt.13:46

Jesus is teaching about the Kingdom of God, describing in parables. In the parables of the treasure in the field and the pearl of great price he has the discoverer selling everything to gain the newly discovered and true treasure.

In both these parables the discoverer immediately knows the value of what he has found. Without a second thought they discard what they had previously valued, everything they owned, in order to gain the higher treasure.

I can be complacent about God's Kingdom. Yes, it's there but just put on the shelf for a while. The trouble is, the things I "own" can crowd God's Kingdom out. This is a good reminder of where my true treasure lies, where rust or moth cannot destroy. It also reminds me of the great cost Jesus paid that I may gain this treasure.

Thank you Jesus for the great value you place on me by gaining me access to God's Kingdom. You think I'm worth it.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Heaven and Hell

'The Son of Man will send his angels and they will gather out of his kingdom all things that provoke offences and all who do evil, and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth. Then the virtuous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Listen, anyone who has ears!’
Mt.13:40-43

Jesus is explaining his parable of the weeds among the wheat. He is quite clear that not all will gain heaven, that a number of people will be thrown into what can only be called Hell.

This would be the most side-stepped passage of the Good News. There is heaven. There is Hell. There is a choice. My business is to help gather as many as possible in my corner of the world for the Kingdom. Starting with my family.

Lord, sometimes I'm not the greatest witness for heaven. Help me be an authentic witness for you so that the fires of Hell run out of fuel.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Stories

In all this Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables; indeed, he would never speak to them except in parables. This was to fulfil the prophecy: I will speak to you in parables and expound things hidden since the foundation of the world.
Mt.13:34,35

Jesus is teaching the people about great things, about the kingdom of God. To do so effectively he uses parables in a language the people understand.

A parable is a story with a point. Jesus knew how to teach a common crowd. He used stories about things the people recognised to expound on great theological truths.

I'm attempting to write. One of the first things I'm learning about writing is that it must matter, it must have a point that the reader can embrace. Powerful stories can move a people.Christmas charities in England blossomed after Dickens published A Christmas Carol.

This is encouraging for me in my self doubts about my writing.

Jesus, anything creative in me comes from you. Help me in my writing efforts that you may be glorified in what I write.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Guard your Mind

‘You have learnt how it was said to our ancestors: You must not kill; and if anyone does kill he must answer for it before the court. But I say this to you: anyone who is angry with his brother will answer for it.’
Mt.5:21,22


Jesus is now getting into the tough talk in his sermon on the mount. Here he focuses on inner thoughts, showing they are as bad, if not worse, than outward sinful actions.

Every sinful action starts with a sinful thought, and I’m thinking all the time, except when asleep. My thoughts are where the battle lies. Control my thoughts and actions are controlled. Stinking thinking makes me stink.

Set your mind on things from above, writes Saint Paul, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Today I will be conscious of my thoughts. Then peace will be mine.

Lord Jesus, you know my thoughts are unconstrained. Help me control my thinking so your peace may be mine.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Keep Them, Teach Them

Therefore, the man who infringes even one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be considered the least in the kingdom of heaven; but the man who keeps them and teaches them will be considered great in the kingdom of heaven.’
Mt.5:19

Jesus is starting his Sermon on the Mount, stating he has not come to replace the Law and the Prophets, rather, to fulfill them. He underscores this by showing what becomes of those who infringe the commandments and those who obey and teach them.

There is an eternal consequence to my attitude to the commandments of God found in the Bible, even the least of them. To keep them and teach them is to gain greatness in heaven.

I'm leading Children's Liturgy at Mass this Sunday. I'd better get it right.

Lord Jesus, I am just a stumbling follower. I trip and fall but get up again to follow you. Give me wisdom and joy as I teach the little children, the very ones you called to be brought to you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Authentic

The scribe said to him, ‘Well spoken, Master; what you have said is true: that he is one and there is no other. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and strength, and to love your neighbour as yourself, this is far more important than any holocaust or sacrifice.’ Jesus, seeing how wisely he had spoken, said, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’
Mk.12:32-34

A Scribe asks Jesus what is the greatest commandment and in reply Jesus defines the Golden Rule; Love God and love others.

When Jesus senses a genuine question he gives a deeper, meaningful response. The Scribe wasn't trying to trap Jesus and he recognised the truth of Jesus' answer.

Authenticity is a state of grace. Having no guile, no ulterior motive is a very attractive feature in a man. Honesty begets honesty. People like being around such men.

Today I can be authentic with those I meet, no judgement, no ulterior motives.

Lord Jesus, give me the grace today to meet others where they are at, to love them as myself.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Leaping and Dancing

The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary 

The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult with joy over you, he will renew you by his love; he will dance with shouts of joy for you as on a day of festival.
Zeph.3:17

The Prophet Zephaniah foretells the restoration of Israel’s remnant. The Lord will no longer be a remote, distant God but will be living in their midst dancing and shouting with joy.

This prophecy is fulfilled when a Jewish girl said yes to God and a baby was conceived in her womb. The first to recognise this was John the Baptist in his mother Elizabeth's womb. He leapt for joy and was baptised in the Holy Spirit as pregnant Mary approached. Joy is the hallmark of Jesus' presence.

Oh how I love that our God is called Emmanuel, God with Us. Jesus is intimately present and involved in my life, even today. I shall live out today with him at my side, leaping and dancing and shouting with joy.

Lord Jesus, I welcome you into my day. May your joy be contagious through me to those we meet.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Ranked on Servanthood

Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mk.10:43-45

Jesus has just foretold his passion and death for the third time. Still the disciples don't get it and they squabble over who is going to have prize seats in the new kingdom. Jesus sets them right with a clear description of how order will be in his kingdom. Instead of being ranked on power, people will be ranked on servanthood, indeed, the first will be the slave of all.

Ranking on servanthood continues be a difficult concept. My human nature wants to be top dog and in control. There's also a bit of pride in there that wants its day in the sun as well. The Church continues to model the upside down world of Jesus, the Pope being called the servant of the servants of the Lord. And of course, Jesus remains the Servant King.

Lord, you know my lust for power and control. Help me be a servant and so an authentic witness for you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

The World to Come

’ Jesus said, ‘I tell you solemnly, there is no one who has left house, brothers, sisters, father, children or land for my sake and for the sake of the gospel who will not be repaid a hundred times over, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and land – not without persecutions – now in this present time and, in the world to come, eternal life. ‘Many who are first will be last, and the last first.’
Mk.10:29-31

Peter remonstrates with Jesus, "What about us, we have left everything?" Jesus explains the new law he is introducing, the first will be last, the last first.

The world struggles with this concept. It promotes the first being first and last staying last. Jesus turns that all upside down. The fullness of Jesus' law isn't complete until "the world to come" has been experienced. Only then will the full and final payment be made.

The operative words are "will be". Many who are first will be last, the last first. I have to remember to look at the world with all its injustice through this lense.

Lord Jesus, give me and eternal perspective in my dealings with the world, so I do not become captive to its temptations or despondent over its triumphs. Eternal life is ours through your grace, mercy and love.
Little Flower, please pray for us.

Cup of Water

‘If anyone gives you a cup of water to drink just because you belong to Christ, then I tell you solemnly, he will most certainly not lose his reward.
Mk.9:41

John has just complained that he saw someone driving out demons in Jesus' name but was not one of the apostles. Jesus replies, do not stop him. Whoever is not against us is for us. Even a person giving a cup of what to a believer will gain a reward.

I remember informing Father Brian Playfair that his old housekeeper, Rita, had just died. His spontaneous response was to quote the above scripture. He was convinced Rita was receiving her reward from a lifetime of serving priests.

This promise gives an increased glow to service in the Church, if that were needed. There's a special grace given to servants of the Church. Even serving children in Children's Liturgy holds this wonderful promise.

Thank you Jesus for taking note of the insignificant acts of service and kindness that happen in your Church. 
Little Flower, please pray for us.

Be One

May they all be one. Father, may they be one in us, as you are in me and I am in you, so that the world may believe it was you who sent me.
Jn.17:21

Jesus is at the Last Supper. Having just washed the disciples feet, he now prays for them, especially for their unity. It is their unity that is going to bear witness to him once he has left them.

Unity attracts, disunity repels. In the first reading from Acts we see how the disunity of the Sadducees and the Pharisees stops their planned persecution of Paul. Jesus prays for unity among the Apostles so the world may believe.

Working for unity means promoting love and peace. When I display these virtues I become an authentic witness, today.

Lord Jesus, help me to seek common ground rather than judge, so unity may bear witness to your glory.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Enough

But life to me is not a thing to waste words on, provided that when I finish my race I have carried out the mission the Lord Jesus gave me – and that was to bear witness to the Good News of God’s grace.
Acts 20:24

Paul is speaking to the Ephesian Church, explaining how he is compelled by the Spirit to return to Jerusalem and face certain persecution. He confirms he has told them everything they need to know of God's grace through Jesus. His work with them is finished.

Every project reaches a time when you know it is finished, that it's time to move on. A have a short story I am entering into a competition. I've been tinkering with it for a number of weeks. It's time to finish, to send it off and move on.

To know that I've done my best, that I've run the race, is to know satisfaction and to have a peace. Knowing when to stop is a sign of wisdom.

Lord, you know how I continue to tinker when I should be moving on. Give me wisdom to know when to say, "enough".
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Preach Anyway

At this mention of rising from the dead, some of them burst out laughing; others said, ‘We would like to hear you talk about this again.’ After that Paul left them, but there were some who attached themselves to him and became believer
Acts17:32-34

Paul is preaching to the Greeks in Athens. He expounds God's great plan of redemption which is accepted to the point of Jesus’ being risen from the dead. The assembly then breaks up, some scoffing, some wanting to hear more later and a few becoming believers.

Some laughed, some wanted their ears tickled and some believed. The response to the message of Jesus is much the same today. But the message continues to be preached and some continue to believe. It is for them that the others must be endured.

Lord Jesus, give me courage to endure the scoffed, patience to accept those seeking entertainment and love to reach out to those destined to be saved.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Son of Encouragement

They sent Barnabas to Antioch. There he could see for himself that God had given grace, and this pleased him, and he urged them all to remain faithful to the Lord with heartfelt devotion; for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and with faith. And a large number of people were won over to the Lord.
Acts.11:22-24

The apostles heard of numbers of Greeks joining the Church in Antioch and so sent Barnabus to investigate. He instantly recognised the grace of God at work and so encouraged the local church to continue.

Barnabas' encouragement and witness caused even greater numbers to join. He is described as a "good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith". What a tremendous way to be described anywhere, yet alone in Holy Scripture!

Encouragement is a wonderful thing. Encouragers are welcomed into any group. People like being around them. Oh that I may be an encourager to those I meet today.

Lord Jesus, today make me a "Son of Encouragement" like your servant Barnabas.
Saint Barnabas, please pray for me.

Gateway to Life

'Anyone who enters through me will be safe: he will go freely in and out and be sure of finding pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full.’
Jn.10:9,10

Jesus starts his parable of the Good Shepherd. Not only is he the Good Shepherd, he is the gate. He protects from the murderous thief and gives fullness of life.

I was at a twenty-first birthday party the other night. There were a number of young people who were priming to move onto the clubs following the party. I saw an emptiness in many of them and I felt pity for them. Alcohol promises fullness but delivers bitter emptiness.

A gate keeps things out and keep things in. A gate leads to a secure place. Jesus does all this for me, the result being fullness of life. Fullness of life gives me joy.

Thank you Jesus for the life you give me. Be my gate, be my shepherd. Let my joy lead others to you.
Little Flower, please follow me.

To Whom else can We Turn

Then Jesus said to the Twelve, ‘What about you, do you want to go away too?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘Lord, who shall we go to? You have the message of eternal life, and we believe; we know that you are the Holy One of God.’
Jn.6:67-69

A number of disciples have left Jesus, finding his teaching on his flesh and blood too hard to accept. Jesus invites his closest friends, the twelve apostles, to do likewise. Peter, already their spokesman, makes his great pronouncement of faith. "Lord, to whom else can we turn. You have the words of everlasting life".

I'm leading Children's Liturgy at Mass tomorrow. For children, nothing in our faith is too hard. Their spirits rise up to the Good News spontaneously. They don't weigh and measure it first. They have the wisdom of the simple that God promises and as a result, they have more joy.

Faith doesn't mean I'm to park my brain in neutral but it does mean accepting the mystery of God. No mystery, no faith. Once I accept God is way larger than my brain can encompass then faith kicks in and joy follows.

Lord Jesus, by faith I accept who you are and what you promise is true. To whom else can I turn? You have the words of everlasting life.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

The Wise Seek Council

When Philip ran up, he heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ ‘How can I’ he replied ‘unless I have someone to guide me?’ So he invited Philip to get in and sit by his side.
Acts8:30,31

Philip is led by the Spirit to run up to the Ethiopian official's chariot and question him regarding the scripture he was reading. The Ethiopian invited him explain what he was reading which led to his accepting the Good News of Jesus and being baptised.

In proverbs we read, the first sign of wisdom is to seek council. The Ethiopian showed his wisdom in realising he needed teaching in order to understand. There is a humility in wisdom. The wise admit they don't know it all.

May I be wise in my day today, seeking those whom the Spirit sends me for instruction.

Lord, Jesus, you know all,  I don't. Grant me the humility of wisdom to seek council.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Eternal Life

' Yes, it is my Father’s will that whoever sees the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and that I shall raise him up on the last day.’
Jn.6:40

Jesus is stating very clearly to a non-believing audience who he is (the Bread of Life) and why he has come (to give eternal life).

Some of the final words I heard from my mother were "I believe". For a vociferous atheist this was a huge about-turn with huge consequences. She no longer had to fear the last day and I no longer had to fear for her soul.

Thank you mum for that priceless gift you gave me in witnessing your entrance into eternal life.

Lord Jesus, I see and believe. Thank you for the wonderful promise you now give me, eternal life.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Come and Believe

‘Sir,’ they said ‘give us that bread always.’ Jesus answered: ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never be hungry; he who believes in me will never thirst.’
Jn.6:34,35

The people are clamouring for Jesus after he has performed the miracle of the loaves. Wanting another sign from him, Jesus confronts them with what they really want, more food for their stomachs. He tells them God wants to provide food for their souls, bread from heaven. So starts his great discourse on his flesh and blood.

Never, hunger, never thirst, what a wonderful promise. There is contentment, peace and joy in being a Christ-follower that doesn't rely in circumstance. Stephen displayed that as he was being stoned. Coming to Jesus and believing in him is all that is required.

Lord Jesus I come to you with my belief. My easter joy is from you to me and from me to those I meet today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Kumbaya

They had rowed three or four miles when they saw Jesus walking on the lake and coming towards the boat. This frightened them, but he said, ‘It is I. Do not be afraid.’
Jn.6:19,20

The disciples are heading into strong winds and rough seas on the lake. It's getting dark. Things are not looking good when Jesus is seen walking towards them over the water. Into their fear he speaks peace. Suddenly the storm has passed and they have safely reached their destination.

Lake Taupo can turn from a blue glassy surface to a black wave-heaving menace within an hour. People have perished as a result. I sense the disciple's fear.

I often wonder why Jesus performed this miracle. No one was healed from it. No tangible good came from it, except maybe saving a boat load of disciples. Being experienced boatmen, maybe they would have reached shore anyway.

I guess the message I receive two thousand years later is that being co-creator of everything, Jesus is Lord over everything. And being Lord over everything his presence and peace can be found anywhere. I can always call out, Kumbaya my Lord, no matter where I find myself today.

Kumbaya my Lord, Kumbaya...
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Life or Death

Anyone who believes in the Son has eternal life, but anyone who refuses to believe in the Son will never see life: the anger of God stays on him.
Jn.3:36

John the Baptist has just affirmed to his questioning disciples Jesus' superiority. "He must become greater; I must become less". He then prophecies what belief and nonbelief in Jesus gives... life or death.

This highlights the urgency of spreading the Good News. It's not just a nice thing to accept, it's a matter of life and death! Do I have this sense of urgency when I look at, say, my colleagues at work? If judgement day were today, some would live, a lot would die.

Lord Jesus, it's hard to spread the Good News of your death and resurrection. Give me inspiration to seize those moments when I can talk about you and be an authentic witness.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Spirit Births Spirit

Jesus said to Nicodemus: ‘Do not be surprised when I say: You must be born from above.'
Jn.3:7

Nicodemus is drawn to Jesus in a secret meeting. Jesus has just told him 'Spirit gives birth to spirit'. Nicodemus is struggling to comprehend.

Nothing's changed in two thousand years. People still struggle to understand that humankind is spiritual as well as fleshly and that, as with the flesh, it is essential for the spiritual to be born, to be fed, to be nurtured. Jesus is clear about this; "You must be born from above".

There is a spiritual side to everything in my day today, starting with my prayer-time now. I need to be alert to that. It is in this realm the spirit of God is working in me. I don't want to miss it.

Lord Jesus, send out your spirit and renew the face of the earth, starting with me.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

He has Risen!

And he said to them, ‘Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all creation.’
Mk.16:15

In a few verses Mark outlines the resurrection events of Jesus. Mary Magdala to the unbelieving disciples. The two from the Emaus road again to the unbelieving disciples. Then finally Jesus himself. His message.... I have risen from the dead, go tell the world.

The Good News is very simple. Jesus Christ has risen from the dead!

Even I can remember that. It changes everything. What a message to proclaim today!

Lord Jesus. You have risen from the dead. Alleluia! Today I proclaim this Good News.
Saint Mary Magdala, pray for me.

What Things?

Then one of them, called Cleopas, answered him, ‘You must be the only person staying in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have been happening there these last few days.’ ‘What things?’ he asked
Lk.24:28,19

The two downcast disciples are dragging themselves home, the death of Jesus was the death of their dreams. Jesus, unrecognized, connects with them where they're at by asking a simple thing,"What things?"

Jesus wants to engage with me. "What things Mike?" What are the hopes, dreams, disappointments and joys in my life that I can share with him?

Lord Jesus, I often am so wrapped up in my world that I don't recognise you walking beside me. I open myself  to your question, "What things?"
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Wonderful Assignment

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia!
Ps117:24

Lent has finished. Easter is apon us. The season of Alleluias is here. The day so big it must be contained in eight days. A joy that cannot be contained.

My Easter experience is directly proportional to my Lenten experience. My Lenten experience has been great. This grace of Easter, this joy is not for me alone, is to pass on. What a wonderful assignment.

Lord Jesus. I invite you into my day. Be on my lips and in my actions. My your joy pour out from me to those you place in my path.
Saint Mary Magdalene, pray for me.

No Doubt

But he must ask with faith, and no trace of doubt, because a person who has doubts is like the waves thrown up in the sea when the wind drives.
Jms.1:6,7

James is writing to Jewish believers, encouraging them to remain faithful in times of trial. He encourages them to ask a generous father, but always ask without doubt.

Wind blown waves can go against a current. There's lots of energy but it's directed all over the place in useless dissipation. I sometimes let the winds of circumstance chop and change me, distracting me, undermining me.

Getting my feet back on the rock sets me facing back on course. This prayer time is grounding, getting me back and moving on the way. "I am the way" says Jesus. Come and follow me.

Lord Jesus, I get so easily distracted, tossed about by the waves of life. Today I place my feet back on your sure foundation and continue my journey on the way.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Persistnace and Power

For saying this, you may go home happy: the devil has gone out of your daughter.’ So she went off to her home and found the child lying on the bed and the devil gone.
Mk.7:31

A pagan woman begs for Jesus to to deliver her possessed daughter. Jesus tests the woman’s faith by initially refusing. Her persistance gains her desire and her daughter is delivered even while being some distance away.

This story highlights persistance and power. The persistance of the pagan woman’s plea releases Jesus power.

Jesus instigates healing in many ways; by touch, by word, by mud on a blind man’s eyes. Here the plea of a pagan releases his healing power at another location. Remote intercession.

There is no limitation to Jesus’ healing. The one requirement is faith. The woman had faith in Jesus and this drove her persistance. My intersession for others anywhere is powerful when driven by faith.

Lord Jesus I trust in you. As I place my prayer list before you this moring, please release your healing power. Even the dogs can eat the children’s scraps.
Little Flower please pray for me.

The Touch

Immediately aware that power had gone out from him, Jesus turned round in the crowd and said, ‘Who touched my clothes?’
Mk.5:30

While walking among a large crowd pressing up against him, Jesus feels his healing power go out from him. He has been touched by a woman with desperate faith and her spontaneous healing is the result.

There is so much happening in this story from Mark. Jesus is responding to Jairus's cry for healing for his dieing daughter and spontaneous healing of the bleeding woman happens on the way. He is confronted by faith of the woman and the mocking unbelief of the girl's mourners.

It appears that the faith of the woman drew healing power from Jesus without him instigating it. Her touch in faith was all that was required. "Daughter, your faith has healed you”says Jesus.

The power of faith is demonstrated here. The faith of Jairus and of the woman was born of desperation but that didn't matter.  One cried out, the other simply touched. The miracle healing power of Jesus did its work.

The cry for another or the touch for self, either done in faith can result in miracles.

Lord Jesus, thank you again for the gift and the power of faith. 
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Share the Gift

That is why I am reminding you now to fan into a flame the gift that God gave you when I laid my hands on you. God’s gift was not a spirit of timidity, but the Spirit of power, and love, and self-control.
2Tim.1:6,7

Saint Paul is writing to Timothy to encourage him in his mission. Paul reminds Timothy where his faith has come from (his grandmother and mother) and what it has given him (power, love and a sound mind).

It is good to remember where my faith has come from and what it has given me. So many people have been part of my conversion story and I owe them a great debt. My faith has given me foremost, joy, hope, peace and love. The power and self control of Timothy are mine as well.

I have received a great gift. It is not for me alone but to share, today...

Lord Jesus, you have given me a great gift of faith. Help me share its fruits with those I meet today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

A Jealous Eye

And Saul turned a jealous eye on David from that day forward.
1Sam.18:9

David is being credited as the greater warrior over the Philestines than Saul and Saul becomes fearful of his crown and jealous of David.

In fact, David was the greater warrior. While Saul cowered in fear from Goliath, David stepped up and defeated the giant. Saul could have learnt from David's example of trusting fearlessly in God. He alllowed jealousy to take root in his heart instead and so began his great fall.

I heard a priest once say he very rarely had people confess the sin of jealousy. It's such a demeaning sin to confess yet everyone of us has been guilty of it. Jealousy isolates me from others, feeds pride and vain-glory. It is the worst of spiritual cancers.

Of whom am I jealous today?  Maybe it’s time I went to a confessional and surprised a priest.

Lord Jesus, I confess the sin of jealousy. Help me be rid of this cancer and liberate myself to work in the opposite spirit of generosity.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

I am Siezed

At this, Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him where he stood with his brothers; and the spirit of the Lord seized on David and stayed with him from that day on.
1 Sam.16:13

Samuel has been shown by God which among Jessies sons is to be anointed the new king. The least likely because of his youth, David is set apart, consecrated by his annointing and the Holy Spirit seizes apron him for the rest of his life.

There is something almost violent in the word "sieze". It infers a firm and relentless grip. I would agree with this use of the word. Once the Holy Spirit released his power in my life I became firmly in his grip. Despite my failings and fallings, like David, the Holy Spirit has laid claim on me and remains.

It's good to reminded that this steadfast friend is still present and active in my life. Today I live with the sure knowledge that I am firmly in the grip of the Holy Spirit of God.

Thank you Holy Spirit of God for your resolute hold on my life. I recommit myself to your influence today. Veni Sancte Spiritus.
Little Flower please pray for me.

Of Course He Wants to

A leper came to Jesus and pleaded on his knees: ‘If you want to’ he said ‘you can cure me.’ Feeling sorry for him, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. ‘Of course I want to!’ he said. ‘Be cured!’ And the leprosy left him at once and he was cured.
Mk.1:40-42

Jesus is touched with compassion for the begging leper, an extreme outcast. Jesus breaks all the taboos of the day and touches the leper and heals him.

I love this story. It says so much about Jesus’attitude to me, a sick beggar when compared to his holiness. “Of course I want to lift you up, free you, heal you Mike” he says to me. A good attitude for me to approach Jesus is shown by the leper... on my knees.

Lord Jesus, touch me with your healing touch this day. Lift me up so I may glorify you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Cast them Out

And he went all through Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out devils.
Mk.1:39

Jesus has just started his public ministry. He has performed miracles of healing but also each time,  Demons were cast out.

It seems like Jesus didn't have to look very far before he found Demons to be cast out. Where ever there were crowds to see him he performed healing and he cast out Demons.

I wonder if he would find as many demons in my world today should he be walking through our churches and streets? I suspect he would.

This reminds me that I may live in a new age but the world I live in is unchanged from 2000 years ago. I am engaged in a spiritual battle that has raged over millennia. The good news is that Jesus casts out Demons just as successfully today as ever. I have no need to fear , just keep my eyes and heart focused on Jesus.

Lord Jesus, I claim victory in my life in your name and I place my trust in you.
Little flower, pray for me.

Humility and Authority

‘Here is a teaching that is new’ they said ‘and with authority behind it: he gives orders even to unclean spirits and they obey him.’
Mk.1:27

 Jesus enters the synagogue. He teaches with a new authority. To demonstrate this he casts out an unclean spirit from a man and people are amazed.

Jesus is just starting his ministry and he chooses to demonstrate who He truly is by the casting out of a Demon. He could have chosen other miracles but confronting the spiritual world gave the greatest demonstration of who he truly was.

Jesus tells the church that we can do even greater things than he once we have received power from on high. This is either true or not. I can have the same authority as Jesus when I act in his name and in his way. His way is the way of humility yet it is also the way of authority.

Lord Jesus, I ask for humility and authority that your power may be demonstrated through me for your glory. Amen.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

While He is Near

Seek the Lord while he is still to be found, call to him while he is still near.
Is.55:6

The prophet Isaiah gives an invitation to all who are hungry and thirsty in the spirit to seek and call out to God while there is time.

The inference here is that the Lord will not always be able to be found, will not always be near. We live in a graced age when the doorway to God is open. It will not always be so.

It’s easy for me to take my salvation for granted, to assume I can always turn back if I happen to wander. I’m too casual with God. Seeking and calling need to be part of my every day, while he is still near.

Lord Jesus, I often take you for granted, assume your mercy will always be within easy grasp. Forgive me Lord. I want to press closer into you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Believe

I have written all this to you so that you who believe in the name of the Son of God may be sure that you have eternal life.
1Jn.5:13

John is writing to the early Church reiterating who Jesus is and what belief in him gains, eternal life.

Here in one verse is what gives me the greatest joy and hope in being a believer in Jesus Christ. Eternal  life! What a promise. And this is what drives me to be a witness and encourager for others to believe, especially my loved ones.

I'm reminded again of the inexpressible joy I was given when my mother said "I believe" on her death bed. I know we will meet again. This is a promise.

Today I live as a believer and an authentic witness as one who has the joy and promise of eternal life.

Thank you Jesus for the wonderful gift of faith in you and the promise this faith gives me, eternal life with you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.

Come and see...

Jesus turned round, saw them following and said, ‘What do you want?’ They answered, ‘Rabbi,’ – which means Teacher – ‘where do you live?’ ‘Come and see’ he replied; so they went...
Jn.1:38,39

John the Baptist identifies Jesus and two of his disciples follow after him. Jesus challenges them as to their purpose and then invites them to follow him.

John the Baptist demonstrates his humility to Jesus by encouraging his own followers to leave and follow Jesus. Jesus gives a simple invitation, “Come and see”.

This type of invitation is appealing. Come and see hints that there is concrete and convincing evidence I have not yet seen. Phillip is to make the same invitation to Nathanael in answer to his scoffing remark, “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” “Come and see” says Phillip and Nathaneal’s life is changes forever.

“Come and see” says Jesus to me. How fully I respond to his invitation is up to me. It could change my life forever.

Lord Jesus, I hear your invitation to come and see. Lord I choose to follow you today. Show me where you live in the places I go today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.