tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38183432024-03-14T01:15:21.693-05:00sacra*MENTAL*Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.comBlogger281125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-85026500641950020882024-03-12T04:55:00.000-05:002024-03-12T04:55:10.365-05:00Dealing With Stage Four Neuroendocrine Cancer and Advanced Fibrosis<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix76-wZqXubXYbqFy6oe3IT9h1tItKuy9p-7hCAm2YBvAwLqvV9w7Jk9HbWd109WdlTvgnRdjXAo9SptNKNlPjKLo_1jPzGnvtmpenn_0gS9jgrwgy1xj1SZRHhWq1v_-an1AjLfModq0suPkUB5hKDR3BaLEkXJjHkJxVEh1cIswj-_ehbo9E/s1280/capture3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="981" data-original-width="1280" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix76-wZqXubXYbqFy6oe3IT9h1tItKuy9p-7hCAm2YBvAwLqvV9w7Jk9HbWd109WdlTvgnRdjXAo9SptNKNlPjKLo_1jPzGnvtmpenn_0gS9jgrwgy1xj1SZRHhWq1v_-an1AjLfModq0suPkUB5hKDR3BaLEkXJjHkJxVEh1cIswj-_ehbo9E/w640-h490/capture3.jpg" title="Philippe de Champaigne's Vanitas (c. 1671) is reduced to three essentials: Life, Death, and Time" width="640" /></a></div>Image: Wikipedia - <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippe_de_Champaigne" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Philippe de Champaigne">Philippe de Champaigne</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">'s </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanitas" style="background: none; color: #3366cc; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Vanitas">Vanitas</a></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> (c.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-wrap: nowrap;"> 1671</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">) is reduced to three essentials: Life, Death, and Time</span><p></p><p>Dear Readers,</p><p>Since my last post here something really big has happened. As you <a href="https://genxcatholic.blogspot.com/2023/05/im-still-alive.html" target="_blank">already know</a>, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroendocrine Cancer. You can learn more about Neuroendocrine Cancer <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neuroendocrine-tumors/symptoms-causes/syc-20354132" target="_blank">here</a>. So far, the cancer is in a lymph node between my lungs, my bones (but not the marrow), and most notably in my liver. As it turns out, I recently learned that I also have advanced fibrosis of the liver which is one step down from cirrhosis. The fibrosis, according to my oncologist, "can be as life-limiting as the cancer." In short, it's not good news at all.</p><p>Right now, I don't really know what my prognosis is. It is possible that I could live for two years or live a long life depending on the progress of the disease. I have been on chemo for 18 months and am taking a break from it now. The cancer has remained "stable." That is, neither growing nor shrinking. We are monitoring it with a CT scan every three months. Right now, the biggest concern is the fibrosis and I hope to get in to see a GI specialist soon. I understand that the wait for an appointment can be months long.</p><p>In the meantime, I ask for your prayers. I have committed, thanks to the suggestion of the <a href="https://www.passionistnuns.org/" target="_blank">Passionist Nuns</a>, to pray the Surrender Novena. You can find it <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/" target="_blank">here</a>. I am leaving everything in the hands of Jesus and I am offering all of my sufferings for the intentions of the Passionist Nuns.</p><p><span class="text Ps-90-12" id="en-RSVCE-15979" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">So teach us to number our days</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-90-12" style="position: relative;">that we may get a heart of wisdom. - Psalm 90:12</span></span></p><p><br /></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-65214434160746265022023-06-15T04:42:00.002-05:002023-06-15T04:42:34.504-05:00Going Through It<p> Dear Readers,</p><p>I'm sorry I've once again been away for a while. It's because I'm going through a serious bout of depression. It's all I can do to keep <a href="https://pierced-hearts.com/" target="_blank">Pierced Hearts </a>updated.</p><p>See <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/061523.cfm" target="_blank">Today's Readings</a> here.</p><p>God bless you all.</p><p>With Love in Christ,</p><p>Lisa</p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-84866636361211147062023-06-10T02:45:00.000-05:002023-06-10T02:45:06.070-05:00June 10 - Today's Readings: Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time<p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJI6R3-e1bhis0L3FHuI0tjH43Qw4v6Jy4yZ1f5v9hVEKFVRx-3o9UN99FlVuHvzH_FAfUwa2mr8Ju5YN5HrtZXZTEmipoFd1WvfIERPTJtULGKwcaQYuiGki0Ba9Hj1lbHIHVDKiYk5gD8YkrBIRgNAKnZb9c64bzjPH8bM6xWV1luWJLg/s500/capture.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="423" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJI6R3-e1bhis0L3FHuI0tjH43Qw4v6Jy4yZ1f5v9hVEKFVRx-3o9UN99FlVuHvzH_FAfUwa2mr8Ju5YN5HrtZXZTEmipoFd1WvfIERPTJtULGKwcaQYuiGki0Ba9Hj1lbHIHVDKiYk5gD8YkrBIRgNAKnZb9c64bzjPH8bM6xWV1luWJLg/w322-h380/capture.jpeg" width="322" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Angel Raphael refuses wages from Tobit and Tobias.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />In <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/061023.cfm" target="_blank">today's readings</a>, we find the Angel Raphael refusing wages from Tobit and Tobias. Raphael says to them that they need to give alms for expiation of sins. He then reveals himself to be an angel of God.</p><p>In the Gospel, Jesus points to the widow who has given all she has in comparison to the rich who have given much but not enough of what they have. This is also known as the story of "The Widow's Mite." </p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;"></span></p><blockquote><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">He sat down opposite the treasury</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">Many rich people put in large sums.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">"Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">than all the other contributors to the treasury.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">her whole livelihood."</span></i></blockquote>How many of us are willing to give all that we have to the Church? It must take great faith to do such as this. There is an <a href="https://thefederalist.com/2023/06/09/pride-month-zealots-launch-economic-warfare-on-homesteading-catholic-family/" target="_blank">article today at The Federalist </a>about a family who is sacrificing their livelihood for the sake of living a Godly life in the face of great persecution. Please pray for the McKnight Family.<p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span></p><blockquote><i>As is our tradition, enthrone the Sacred Heart in your home this month, and place your family under the protection of the furnace of Christ's most merciful love.</i></blockquote>God bless you all.<br /><br /><br /><p></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-54415701020910843072023-06-09T16:24:00.003-05:002023-06-09T16:24:31.737-05:00June 9: Today's Readings - Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time<p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1cHmViuwRL45IiiTrrkTooq5gQFKIF4kmwkQxiNHqGJUNWVxSAi3_GJZn-pxCgInkIb4tejvvTKKScoDgwxBWInzQ0_gfe23Yo3hKw1Rq15gUIzPXQsudfuhHKCMgCIFSt8rxAYDo8dxGqWeMgMAq8BfmIzgEPUmr4lBJx6E4PzSZsRvcw/s400/capture.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="335" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1cHmViuwRL45IiiTrrkTooq5gQFKIF4kmwkQxiNHqGJUNWVxSAi3_GJZn-pxCgInkIb4tejvvTKKScoDgwxBWInzQ0_gfe23Yo3hKw1Rq15gUIzPXQsudfuhHKCMgCIFSt8rxAYDo8dxGqWeMgMAq8BfmIzgEPUmr4lBJx6E4PzSZsRvcw/s320/capture.jpeg" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Ephrem of Syria, Doctor of the Church</td></tr></tbody></table><br />St. Ephrem of Syria, pray for us. <b><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-ephrem-of-syria/" target="_blank">Today</a></b> is his day on the calendar.</p><p>Read today's readings <b><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/f060923.cfm" target="_blank">here</a></b>.</p><p>I am very weak today and unable to offer any commentary on the blog. I'll be lying down a lot. Thanks for prayers.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-28181627117251929432023-06-08T04:21:00.002-05:002023-06-08T04:21:40.333-05:00June 8: Memorial of Our Lady of Sunday and Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time<p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUuwsAQXkV5laPapalQHN8d8vtzEpF6lCJsOck-elGMNilXdWJ7YjsGDmBMm82x7Mzz-MIRmSqjXW-ard06Tz5RjPZ4Zd1S7DxKuLV1--Pz6gCfqROZ72n2OcNmoAOH-gaDekQuJKuYPzZAczTrIzVJg93dfNJd3wgQDJoG1yKWvPvYkaQQ/s750/capture.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="563" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUuwsAQXkV5laPapalQHN8d8vtzEpF6lCJsOck-elGMNilXdWJ7YjsGDmBMm82x7Mzz-MIRmSqjXW-ard06Tz5RjPZ4Zd1S7DxKuLV1--Pz6gCfqROZ72n2OcNmoAOH-gaDekQuJKuYPzZAczTrIzVJg93dfNJd3wgQDJoG1yKWvPvYkaQQ/s320/capture.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Lady of Sunday</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>Today, June 8, is the Memorial of Our Lady of Sunday. From the <a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/" target="_blank">Patron Saints Index</a>, we read: </p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><i></i></span></p><blockquote><i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">An apparition of the </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/bvm" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">Blessed Virgin Mary</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> to Auguste Arnaud on </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/8-june" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">8 June</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/time-line-1873" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">1873</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> and </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/8-july" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">8 July</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><a href="" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;" time-line-1873="">1873</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">. Arnaud was </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/matrimony" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">married</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">, the </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/patrons-of-fathers" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">father</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> of two, and a </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/patrons-of-vintners" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">winemaker</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> who regularly skipped Sunday </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/mass" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">Mass</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> to work his </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/patrons-of-vineyards" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">vineyards</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">. </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/bvm" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">Our Lady</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> appeared to him in the </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/patrons-of-vineyards" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">vineyard</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> on </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/8-june" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">8 June</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> and reminded him “You must not work on Sundays.” In honour of this blessing, Arnaud placed a cross and a statue of </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/bvm" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">Mary</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> at the site in the field. On </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/8-july" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">8 July</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/our-lady-of-sunday/bvm" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">Our Lady</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> appeared again, this time to both Auguste and his neighbors who had gathered there, and told them, “You must never work on Sunday! Blessed are those who believe.”</span></i></blockquote><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">A very brief but efficacious message this is! Because of the wide variety of Mass times, on both Saturday nights (which fulfills the Sunday obligation) and Sunday mornings, it is very rare that someone has to skip their Sunday Mass obligation to go to work. What does the catechism say about working on Sundays? Let's take a look.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"></span></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: times;"><i>2185 On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are to refrain from engaging in work or activities that hinder the worship owed to God, the joy proper to the Lord's Day, the performance of the works of mercy, and the appropriate relaxation of mind and body. Family needs or important social service can legitimately excuse from the obligation of Sunday rest. The faithful should see to it that legitimate excuses do not lead to habits prejudicial to religion, family life, and health.</i></span></blockquote><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">It seems very simple. There are times when an employer requires someone to work both Saturday night and Sunday morning, and one is legitimately excused from their Sunday obligation in these cases, but it is still our duty to do everything possible to attend our Sunday Mass obligation. The Church even <a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/2188.htm" target="_blank">calls on us</a> to work with our legislature to ensure that Sundays and Holy Days are considered to be holidays. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">In <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060823.cfm" target="_blank">today's readings</a>, we continue in the Book of Tobit to learn about God's provision of a husband for Sarah. The Angel Raphael brings Tobiah, son of Tobit, to marry Sarah whose seven previous husbands died before the marriage could be consummated. Yesterday, we learned that St. Raphael got rid of the demon which had killed those men. Today, both Tobiah and Sarah kneel in prayer to God before going to bed, and thus the marriage is blessed from its beginning. What a wonderful example for newly married couples.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">In today's Gospel, we learn the two greatest commandments:</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;"><i></i></span></p><blockquote><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">"Which is the first of all the commandments?"</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">Jesus replied, </span><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">"The first is this:</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Hear, O Israel!<br style="box-sizing: inherit;" />The Lord our God is Lord alone!<br style="box-sizing: inherit;" />You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,<br style="box-sizing: inherit;" />with all your soul, with all your mind,<br style="box-sizing: inherit;" />and with all your strength.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">The second is this:</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">You shall love your neighbor as yourself.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">There is no other commandment greater than these."</span></span></i></blockquote><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;"></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">Indeed, whether it is in arranging our work schedule so that we can worship God for our Sunday Mass obligation, or putting off the joys of the honeymoon to tell God that you marry not for lust but to fulfill God's will for man and woman, we should always seek to put God first in our lives.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">As the Psalm today says:</span></span></p><p><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></strong></p><blockquote><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i>Blessed are those who fear the Lord.</i></strong></blockquote><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Amen.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-40411808825813641012023-06-07T04:13:00.002-05:002023-06-07T04:16:43.207-05:00Today's Readings: Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnkwEMLE2LNu49g78JhuiYhJ46rNszdi3-dAEmwzYEbNdYHOhOaNnOXYByoqPKvpwM3KrttuLKzM8YaXPPWtulXop0HgbshBBKFQXoFU9-d6-5djutkKSYIc6aSqKu_mK6nZGhd1Q3UQ-Bkz599u-PouhrqQMvwTWbZEb6uTEoVlKcas-quA/s407/Capture.PNG" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="298" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnkwEMLE2LNu49g78JhuiYhJ46rNszdi3-dAEmwzYEbNdYHOhOaNnOXYByoqPKvpwM3KrttuLKzM8YaXPPWtulXop0HgbshBBKFQXoFU9-d6-5djutkKSYIc6aSqKu_mK6nZGhd1Q3UQ-Bkz599u-PouhrqQMvwTWbZEb6uTEoVlKcas-quA/w234-h320/Capture.PNG" width="234" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Anthony Mary Gianelli, pray for us.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div>There is so much that can be said today about today's readings but I will try to be as brief as possible. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060623.cfm" target="_blank">Yesterday</a>, birds pooped in Tobit's eyes causing him to go blind. <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060723.cfm" target="_blank">Today</a>, he proclaims that all his punishments from God are just but he cannot bear to live anymore, so he asks God to let him die. </div><div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><i>"Lord, command me to be delivered from such anguish;</i></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><i>let me go to the everlasting abode;</i></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><i>Lord, refuse me not.</i></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><i>For it is better for me to die</i></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><i>than to endure so much misery in life,</i></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><i>and to hear these insults!"</i></span></span></div></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">At the same time, Raguel's daughter Sarah was enduring harsh insults, as well, and was being attacked by a demon. She, too, proclaimed that God's punishments are just and asks God to let her die. </span><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">As a great sign of His love for us, God sends the Angel Raphael to heal Tobit's eyesight and to drive the demon from Sarah.</span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">There is so much that can be learned from this alone.</span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">I was having a conversation with my protestant brother the other day about <a href="https://www.sfcatholic.org/bishopsbulletin/offer-it-up-making-sense-of-suffering/" target="_blank">redemptive suffering</a>. That is, our sufferings have value in God's eyes. This is true because He loves us so much. All of humanity's sufferings are just punishments from God, whether for our own sins or because of the sins of others. God does not allow suffering without just cause because He is all-just. Tobit and Sarah both acknowledged that their sufferings were just, not necessarily because of their own sins but also because of the sins of their people. We are all connected to each other as members of humanity. </span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">In like manner, we are all connected to Christ because He became a member of humanity. He took all of our sufferings onto Himself for all of our sins. He was able to do this because of His spiritual connection to us in His humanity and in His Divinity. But we still suffer. He did not take our sufferings away. Instead, He made them redemptive, provided that we offer up our sufferings in union with His on the Cross.</span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">Paul <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+1%3A24&version=RSVCE" target="_blank">said</a>, </span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><i></i><blockquote><i>"Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh, I complete what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church."</i></blockquote></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">The only thing that is lacking in Christ's sufferings is our participation in them.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">In today's Psalm we learn:</span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times;"><div style="color: #363936;"></div><blockquote style="color: #363936;"><div><i>No one who waits for you shall be put to shame;</i></div><div><i>those shall be put to shame who heedlessly break faith.</i></div></blockquote><div style="color: #363936;"></div><div style="color: #363936;"><br /></div><div style="color: #363936;">Job was rewarded for his faith. So we shall be rewarded when we suffer in faith. God sends His graces to console us as we console Christ on the Cross.</div><div style="color: #363936;"><br /></div><div style="color: #363936;">The same principle holds true for the resurrection of our bodies. In the Gospel, Jesus says:</div><div style="color: #363936;"><br /></div><div><blockquote><i><span style="color: red;"><b>He is not God of the dead but of the living.</b></span></i></blockquote></div></span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">In like manner, God is not a God of suffering but of <a href="https://www.passionistnuns.org/blog/2023/2/20/ponder-his-passion-omnipotent-weakness" target="_blank">grace</a> among the living.</span></div><div><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div>Today's saint is <a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-anthony-mary-gianelli/" target="_blank">St. Anthony Mary Gianelli</a>.<div><blockquote><i>Founder of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Garden 1829, a women‘s teaching order that also worked with the sick, and which continues its work today in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Bishop of Bobbio, Italy in 1837. </i></blockquote><p>There is a great prayer to him for our bishops that I would like to share with you.</p><p></p><blockquote> Saint Anthony Gianelli, who through your work have shown such great love to all, intercede for the bishops of the world and especially my bishop {name of your bishop}. Help our bishops to spread the Gospel to all men so that through them all men may find the way to salvation. I ask you to intercede on my behalf so that through your powerful intercession I may obtain the grace that I so ardently desire {name your intention}. Intercede for me and for all those who are dear to me peace of mind, perseverance in good works and a holy death. Amen. –</blockquote><p>It is so important for us to pray for our bishops. It is doubly important for us to offer up our sufferings for them and for others in need of graces.</p><p>May the Lord be with you today.</p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p></p></div></div>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-88225254297306010192023-06-06T04:11:00.001-05:002023-06-06T04:11:23.395-05:00Today's Readings: Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time<p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwVaIQyWVTtSbcXoet9SMOcIMk2zp36QrTIE0j2AmEbiNJOu1HoAhdtPFlhZ4rc15Wo5goS_mIeC5je3c8xX71WLYG3Op5oi3I7rpQVuPQn_iDOgHwU2NosPg6rTFcEN8CI7ReMWT6R3jMSBZMgxvXpdAjLJatKqDiOCRs-Q3dTX5FA3qkw/s536/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="St. Norbert" border="0" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="395" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwVaIQyWVTtSbcXoet9SMOcIMk2zp36QrTIE0j2AmEbiNJOu1HoAhdtPFlhZ4rc15Wo5goS_mIeC5je3c8xX71WLYG3Op5oi3I7rpQVuPQn_iDOgHwU2NosPg6rTFcEN8CI7ReMWT6R3jMSBZMgxvXpdAjLJatKqDiOCRs-Q3dTX5FA3qkw/w236-h320/Capture.PNG" title="St. Norbert" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Norbert</td></tr></tbody></table>Today's calendar includes many saints, including <a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-norbert-of-xanten/" target="_blank">St. Norbert</a>, Founder of the Norbertines.</p><p>In the <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060623.cfm" target="_blank">reading</a> from Tobit today, we learn that it is not okay to be discouraged when the weight of the world's problems weigh heavily on us. The Psalm calls us to "be firm, trusting in the Lord." In the Gospel, we find Jesus being tested by the Pharisees and Herodians on whether or not one should pay taxes.</p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">Knowing their hypocrisy he said to them,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">"Why are you testing me?</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">Bring me a denarius to look at."</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">They brought one to him and he said to them,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">"Whose image and inscription is this?"</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">They replied to him, "Caesar's."</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">So Jesus said to them,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">"Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">and to God what belongs to God."</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">They were utterly amazed at him.</span></p><p>For some of us, there is nothing more valuable to us than money. In fact, we are dependent upon it for survival. Even this, however, does not ultimately belong to us or to God. We must be willing to give up everything for God's glory.</p><p>It's a tough ask. Give up everything? Do people actually do that? My sisters in Christ, <a href="https://www.passionistnuns.org/" target="_blank">the Passionist Nuns</a>, and other cloistered religious have done just that. They are great examples to us lay people of giving up everything for God. </p><p>Today, let us call to mind our great value to God, that He wants us to make a gift of ourselves to Him on a daily basis. Again, it's a tough ask, but in the end, we, too, will be "amazed" at what God is doing for us.</p><p><br /></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-80548145308371138302023-06-05T06:10:00.004-05:002023-06-05T06:10:49.902-05:00Today's Readings: Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1uJlT1IElwPTq-M__RLQmnOphQhQkKer2jt5rdjsRnqn_20luNuQZ028ds02STOEJCAys9HLyWEuEOrNRv2Vr5o5wkUuoMmWGKWdl-GvPKTlS7HNvZTVbClsWg8eJ2i6460vCttW2bNDnBgDtfTyYctJxJS_APOjwZ9g8Cfbot280GfhtIA/s822/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="822" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1uJlT1IElwPTq-M__RLQmnOphQhQkKer2jt5rdjsRnqn_20luNuQZ028ds02STOEJCAys9HLyWEuEOrNRv2Vr5o5wkUuoMmWGKWdl-GvPKTlS7HNvZTVbClsWg8eJ2i6460vCttW2bNDnBgDtfTyYctJxJS_APOjwZ9g8Cfbot280GfhtIA/s320/Capture.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>In <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060523.cfm" target="_blank">today's readings</a>, on this feast of St. Boniface the martyr, we learn that though we suffer greatly in this life for doing the will of God, He will reward us.<p></p><p>The Gospel today is greatly worthy of reflection, but I have to mention that as a convert who was raised protestant, it is good for me to see the reading from Tobit. Growing up, I was not allowed the opportunity to read the Deuterocanon of the Old Testament.</p><p>In the story from Tobit, we find Tobit acting righteously though he is ridiculed by the people. He is a great example to us, especially during this time of a great culture war, to remain steadfast in our love for God's truth and to live out His will for us in the public square. </p><p>It is right and good that we have these readings on the Feast Day of St. Boniface and his companions. Here is a famous story about St. Boniface from <a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-boniface/" target="_blank">Patron Saints Index</a>:</p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><i></i></span></p><blockquote><i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Once in </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-boniface/patrons-of-saxony" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">Saxony</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">, Boniface encountered a tribe worshiping a Norse deity in the form of a huge oak tree. Boniface walked up to the tree, removed his shirt, took up an </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-boniface/ax" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">axe</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">, and without a word he hacked down the six foot wide wooden god. Boniface stood on the trunk, and asked, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">“How stands your mighty god? My God is stronger than he.”</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> The crowd’s reaction was mixed, but some </span><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-boniface/patrons-of-converts" style="background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); color: #225588; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;">conversions</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> were begun.</span></i></blockquote><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Lucida Grande", Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"></span><p></p><p>Today, do not be deterred from living a life worthy of being called "Christian." God will reward your service.</p><p>PHOTO CREDIT: <a href="https://flickr.com/photos/paullew/4671957318/in/photolist-52qQGZ-KJmUN7-52v65U-bUjxGv-2g997gB-VunQ9B-2j8TFux-87R19f-2g7WCWR-8Prx6a-6awLcU-4UW9hF-oeRaTy-8qcH5T-Q7xJXh-QbdPe7-a5qfDs-oeQQsb-ouEAty" target="_blank">Lawrence OP</a></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-17133800822267137302023-06-04T04:20:00.001-05:002023-06-04T04:20:32.595-05:00Today's Readings: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqtmDLVDD5cLqFlowiq-9DHNflhAfmBebJnt5tJtI6eZY4q3JSIf2khrW07wZC1P2PTibcecLYyNGtYg6PGnLY1TAPjloBcSRWPUZURqbuBcBqeLN7cuy25RkkVoDTh6QjOlIwzomLPLz6IaI4C-LuLj8WgUxdZkSZ4jI-0nGUZhf5QJvm3A/s623/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="477" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqtmDLVDD5cLqFlowiq-9DHNflhAfmBebJnt5tJtI6eZY4q3JSIf2khrW07wZC1P2PTibcecLYyNGtYg6PGnLY1TAPjloBcSRWPUZURqbuBcBqeLN7cuy25RkkVoDTh6QjOlIwzomLPLz6IaI4C-LuLj8WgUxdZkSZ4jI-0nGUZhf5QJvm3A/s16000/Capture.PNG" /></a></div><p><br /></p><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060423.cfm" target="_blank">Today's Readings</a> bring us to the great glory of God: The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit.<p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">R. </span><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Alleluia, alleluia.</strong><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">Glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit;</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">to God who is, who was, and who is to come.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 20px;">R.</span><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> Alleluia, alleluia.</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">In today's world, the name of God is often blasphemed. Even many Catholics sometimes take the Lord's name in vain. Let us all commit to bringing glory to the name of God in the Most Holy Trinity. It is needed now for us to step up to the plate. If someone takes the Lord's name in vain, bow your head and in a quiet voice say, "Blessed be His holy name." Or, if the person is open to correction, say, "Please don't take the Lord's name in vain." It is very much needed today.</span></span></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Photo Credit: </span></span><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">Old Testament Holy Trinity. </span><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;">The icon recalls the anglic visit described in Genesis to Abraham and Sarah who were then living under the Oak of Mamra. At times the text describes the guest in the singular, other times in the plural. Christians came to see the event as an early revelation of the Holy Trinity. <a href="https://flickr.com/photos/jimforest/165556836/in/photolist-fCwhd-Ms59rN-SDb5Co-2dqDZy4-R44Yv6-2j2gZY2-2j1FbpC-QZ5U3v-sXrB9U-MbbMNJ-Ms53m1-2eEPK1m-SL14Lp-Mz87Cd-2dHs44b-24aSyM4-SL15X2-2mcnacz-2jWGSPK-R44ZbK-2ePoRn4-2dqE1Gg-2eJM4df-2j3cmbH-R44VAt-24aSzrF-2eJM4AE-SDcLQ5-24aSy8D-24aSxEp-2j3gwzp-24cVQpt-MuMNdp-SDcMhs-2njFvXZ-2cy8caE-R44Zv2-2dqE1ok-2ePoPgF-2dDvjiC-2dqE1ec-SFgFTb-2mfpN8j-LEMr8P-tU7Bqm-R44ZVv-QZ5VNe-2j3f13i-2jWDd3K-24aSwKt" target="_blank">Jim Forest</a></span></i></p><p><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-22986773841182597412023-06-03T05:21:00.005-05:002023-06-03T06:30:17.807-05:00Today's Readings: Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYxwbf-R06Cv2te-L4Mim3ddn6sRfO1wofyC4THhlSdis9fksXhXgY611XyZGyi3u-28JVrTYL-MUVXI6e0GWyw1TsYw0Ac1a4iqDBO1W_ZxfhGHuXchC2ZJ9C1Bl6_BynWlrz6w5bq14eFuneDGZ0iqSx_xgpahdJ2axOibNxbK4fsfFEA/s400/capture.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="400" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYxwbf-R06Cv2te-L4Mim3ddn6sRfO1wofyC4THhlSdis9fksXhXgY611XyZGyi3u-28JVrTYL-MUVXI6e0GWyw1TsYw0Ac1a4iqDBO1W_ZxfhGHuXchC2ZJ9C1Bl6_BynWlrz6w5bq14eFuneDGZ0iqSx_xgpahdJ2axOibNxbK4fsfFEA/s320/capture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Today I humbly ask for prayers for my daughter Bethany and her unborn child. <b><a href="https://pierced-hearts.com/2023/06/02/please-pray-for-my-daughter-and-her-baby/" target="_blank">Click here</a></b> to read her news at my other blog Pierced Hearts.</p><p>This is the Feast Day of St. Charles Lwanga and Companions. You can read about their martyrdom under the homosexual King of Uganda <b><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saints-of-the-day-charles-lwanga-and-companions/" target="_blank">here</a></b>. Please take the time to read it today. It's worth your while.</p><p>In <b><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060323.cfm" target="_blank">Today's Readings</a></b> we seek wisdom which comes from God.</p><p></p><blockquote><p><i>I sought wisdom openly in my prayer</i></p><p><i>I prayed for her before the temple,</i></p><p><i>and I will seek her until the end,</i></p><p><i>and she flourished as a grape soon ripe.</i></p></blockquote><p>Someone had asked me on Twitter yesterday if there were any protestant saints. I said, "Of course not." I was so wrong as we see in <b><a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saints-of-the-day-charles-lwanga-and-companions/" target="_blank">today's account</a></b> of St. Charles Lwanga and Companions, some of whom were Protestants, who were martyred for calling out the King of Uganda's homosexual abuse of pages. I responded to that person on Twitter with a lack of Wisdom. It's a good lesson for me today. I should not open my mouth and speak about things of which I do not know.</p><p><b><a href="https://pierced-hearts.com/2023/06/02/please-pray-for-my-daughter-and-her-baby/" target="_blank">As I pray</a></b> for my daughter and her baby today, I pray also for Wisdom so that I may know what the Chief Priests said they did not know in <b><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060323.cfm" target="_blank">today's Gospel reading</a></b>, that Christ has all authority as the Son of God. Far be it for me to claim any authority on my own, apart from Him. I hand my daughter and her child over to His care this month.</p><p>UPDATE: It was <b><i><a href="https://twitter.com/Tuberoot" target="_blank">Tuberoot</a></i></b> who asked me about protestant saints. </p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-77128139612936098092023-05-29T06:04:00.003-05:002023-05-29T06:04:58.435-05:00Today's Readings: Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church<p> <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052923.cfm" target="_blank">Click here for today's readings</a>.</p><p><span style="font-family: times;">As we near the end of the month of May in which we give special honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are reminded in Scripture that Jesus has given her as the mother of us all.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;">Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"> and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"> and Mary of Magdala.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;">When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"> he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.”</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;">Then he said to the disciple,</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"> “Behold, your mother.”</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; font-size: 20px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;">And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"><span style="font-family: times;">Eve, who is the mother of all the living, is mentioned in the first <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052923.cfm" target="_blank">reading</a>. Now Mary is the mother of all those who are disciples of Christ.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"><span style="font-family: times;">I want to share this video which explains the role of Mary from Scripture. It really blew my mind when I first watched it.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #363936; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="398" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kUdYeYy3NQA" width="668" youtube-src-id="kUdYeYy3NQA"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">Hail Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">our life our sweetness, and our hope!</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">To you do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears!</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">Turn, then, most gracious Advocate, your eyes of mercy towards us,</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.3px;"></span></span></p><p><span style="color: #363936; font-family: times;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.3px;">That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.</span></span></p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-15262739195528422022023-05-28T04:53:00.000-05:002023-05-28T04:53:45.422-05:00Today's Readings: Pentecost Sunday - Mass during the Day<p><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052823-Day.cfm" target="_blank"> </a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6lZZd4h7A0UVoz5MBfzw9tUNCwrYHD5ttCkhmBaOLzDmooe5Kt7nWAlL0ZeoCB9SeTq3I-2QKdjvQ2XHzfsz008l39WqIy2HEjmFpuC2LepGd_l5vKYsmnpRgS4Ocwgpy_8Ac6S1S3124wTvbKS4Z7yZyL1N6CE3JtB5iPQamLNC3gI1SA/s632/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="632" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6lZZd4h7A0UVoz5MBfzw9tUNCwrYHD5ttCkhmBaOLzDmooe5Kt7nWAlL0ZeoCB9SeTq3I-2QKdjvQ2XHzfsz008l39WqIy2HEjmFpuC2LepGd_l5vKYsmnpRgS4Ocwgpy_8Ac6S1S3124wTvbKS4Z7yZyL1N6CE3JtB5iPQamLNC3gI1SA/s320/Capture.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052823-Day.cfm" target="_blank">Click here for today's readings</a>.</p><p>Today, on Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the birth of the Church, for it was today that the Holy Spirit blest the "entire house" where the apostles were gathered and allowed them to speak in different tongues.</p><p></p><blockquote><i>When the time for Pentecost was fulfilled, they were all in one place together. And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim.</i></blockquote><p></p><p>As Joseph Shaw says at <a href="https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/get-pumped-for-pentecost" target="_blank">Catholic Answers:</a> </p><p><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #002856; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #002856; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;">God sends us his Spirit in abundance; it is up to us</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #002856; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"> to receive the Spirit with an open heart. Receiving the Spirit is not just a matter of being well disposed at a particular moment—at our confirmation, for example—but throughout our lives. We have a special liturgical space to renew this receptivity every year in Pentecost week.</span></blockquote><span style="background-color: white; color: #002856; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"></span><p></p><p>Let us today, and every day, be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. As it says in the Psalm in today's readings:</p><p></p><blockquote><p><i>If you take away their breath, they perish</i></p><p><i> and return to their dust.</i></p><p><i>When you send forth your spirit, they are created,</i></p><p><i> and you renew the face of the earth.</i></p></blockquote><p></p><p>Holy Spirit, come to us every day and teach us to follow Jesus in accordance with the Father's perfect will. Amen.</p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-22423847874714396182023-05-27T05:48:00.001-05:002023-05-27T21:31:39.227-05:00Today's Readings: Saturday of the Seventh Week of Easter - Mass in the Morning<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> In <b><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052723.cfm" target="_blank">today's readings</a></b> I see a message of hope.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The just will gaze on your face, O Lord.</strong></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">It's a great message to keep me going today despite my cancer diagnosis. We are all not long for this world. Our true home is in Heaven. Let us long for the Day of Judgment.</span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #363936; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">With Love in Christ,</span></p><p>Lisa Graas</p>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-29485622831159753872023-05-26T19:00:00.002-05:002023-06-06T19:07:10.533-05:00I'm Still AliveI am still alive albeit with a cancer diagnosis and a two-year prognosis. Thanks for visiting. I will try to post regularly.
~ Lisa GraasLisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-21113829697832497662019-05-28T21:16:00.001-05:002019-05-28T21:16:27.325-05:00Born into the darknessBorn into the darkness<br />
Called into the light<br />
Bearing pain in sadness<br />
Holy is my plight.<br />
<br />
<br />
'Morrow is with question<br />
Day is turned to night<br />
Selfishness be foreign<br />
Relief be near in sight<br />
<br />
On comes hope forgotten<br />
Here it is forthcoming<br />
Like a breath of softness<br />
Prayed for its' becoming<br />
<br />
Jesus brings it with Him<br />
In His brilliant light<br />
Sweeping out the cobwebs<br />
Making me alright<br />
<br />
Never will I leave Him<br />
Never will I stray<br />
He is my beloved<br />
Always His, I pray<br />
<br />
<br />Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-11399683452375025422010-08-18T10:47:00.003-05:002023-06-06T19:08:00.063-05:00Be Not Afraid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Are you fearful? Follow this prescription.<br />
<br />
Remember the words Pope John Paul II continually reminded us of during his papacy: "<a href="http://www.bellaonline.org/articles/art30355.asp">Be Not Afraid</a>".<br />
<br />
Sing this song, below, at least once a day, preferably to your children!<br />
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Most importantly, believe what the words say. Think of it as a promise, and trust in the promise, because the promise is true. I can testify to that personally, as can many others. There is rest in fearlessness.<br />
<br />
Once a day. Try it!<br />
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<br />
<b>Be Not Afraid, lyrics</b><br />
(Bob Dufford, S.J., a Catholic Hymn)<br />
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You shall cross the barren desert<br />
But you shall not die of thirst<br />
You shall wander far in safety<br />
Though you do not know the way.<br />
<br />
You shall speak your words in foreign lands<br />
And all will understand<br />
You shall see the face of God and live.<br />
<br />
Be not afraid<br />
I go before you always<br />
Come follow Me<br />
And I shall give you rest.<br />
<br />
If you pass through raging waters<br />
In the sea, you shall not drown<br />
If you walk amidst the burning flames<br />
You shall not be harmed.<br />
<br />
If you stand before the pow'r of hell<br />
And death is at your side<br />
Know that I am with you, through it all.<br />
<br />
Be not afraid<br />
I go before you always<br />
Come follow Me<br />
And I shall give you rest.<br />
<br />
Blessed are your poor<br />
For the Kingdom shall be theirs<br />
Blest are you that weep and mourn<br />
for one day you shall laugh.<br />
<br />
And if wicked men insult and hate you<br />
All because of Me<br />
Blessed, blessed are you!<br />
<br />
Be not afraid<br />
I go before you always<br />
Come follow Me<br />
and I shall give you rest...Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-916014512003-03-29T08:45:00.000-05:002003-03-29T13:00:33.000-05:00<a href="http://www.psycport.com/stories/helthnewsdigest_2003_03_24_eng-healthnewsdigest_eng-healthnewsdigest_093329_4932440963624612811.xml.html"><b>Fewer referrals to specialists for depression as physicians become more familiar with antidepressants </b></a>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-916010492003-03-29T08:28:00.000-05:002003-03-29T13:00:47.000-05:00<b>Support our Bipolar Troops?</b> <a href="http://afr.com/iraq/2003/03/27/FFXPBN9KRDD.html"><b>Pill-popping soldiers run out of drugs</b></a>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-916006492003-03-29T08:12:00.000-05:002003-03-29T13:01:07.000-05:00<b>Today's Saint is Blessed Ludovico of Casoria<br>
<br /><a href="http://www.franciscansisters.com/testament.htm">Read his Testament here</a><br>
<br />Biography from americancatholic.org
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<br /> Born in Casoria (near Naples), Arcangelo Palmentieri was a cabinet-maker before entering the Friars Minor in 1832, taking the name Ludovico. After his ordination five years later, he taught chemistry, physics and mathematics to younger members of his province for several years.
<br />In 1847 he had a mystical experience which he later described as a cleansing. After that he dedicated his life to the poor and the infirm, establishing a dispensary for the poor, two schools for African children, an institute for the children of nobility, as well as an institution for orphans, the deaf and the speechless, and other institutes for the blind, elderly and for travelers. In addition to an infirmary for friars of his province, he began charitable institutes in Naples, Florence and Assisi. He once said, "Christ’s love has wounded my heart." This love prompted him to great acts of charity.
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<br />To help continue these works of mercy, in 1859 he established the Gray Brothers, a religious community composed of men who formerly belonged to the Secular Franciscan Order. Three years later he founded the Gray Sisters of St. Elizabeth for the same purpose.
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<br />Toward the beginning of his final, nine-year illness, Ludovico wrote a spiritual testament which described faith as "light in the darkness, help in sickness, blessing in tribulations, paradise in the crucifixion and life amid death." The local work for his beatification began within five months of Ludovico’s death. He was beatified in 1993. </b>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-916006132003-03-29T08:11:00.000-05:002003-03-29T13:02:01.000-05:00<b><a href="http://www.usccb.org/nab/032903.htm">Click here for Today's Readings</a><br>
<br />Compassion is at the heart of today's readings. One way or another, each of us will be brought low. When we humble ourselves, God's compassion is poured out to us. The less compassion we are shown by men, the more will be poured out to us by God.
<br />
<br />As a parent, I can relate to the parable in today's Gospel reading. It is very difficult to teach a child humility. Children can be very self-absorbed. My children often want me to grade their behavior on a curve -- comparing it to the behavior of their siblings. This gives rise to a lot of tattle-taling.
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<br />How often do we adults do this? Perhaps it is not so pronounced in us, but do we really think that God grades on a curve? And do we really think that we can know what is going on in the hearts and minds of others to the extent that we could know what that person's "grade" is with God?
<br />
<br />My niece is a preschool teacher and she has what she calls a "tattle-tale rock" in her classroom. If one of her students tattle-tales, she points to the rock and says, "Tell it to the rock." This is to teach her students that she is indifferent to tattle-taling. We would do well to learn that this is what God is telling us today.
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<br />God is omnipotent!! He knows everything! He knows what is in each person's heart and mind. He is the judge and He does not grade on a curve. When we judge others, we are spinning our wheels in the mud. When we exalt ourselves at the expense of others, we are spinning our wheels in the mud. When we humble ourselves, God's compassion is poured out to us.
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<br />God bless you.</b>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-915281622003-03-28T00:29:00.000-05:002003-03-29T13:02:55.000-05:00<b>St. Gunthramnus was quite a man. Please read about him by clicking <a href="http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/saintg38.htm">here</a>. You will not be disappointed.
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<br />Dear St. Gunthramnus, peacemaker and convert, pray for us all during this time of war. Intercede for all of the troops on the battlefield, on both sides, that there will be minimal bloodshed, especially among the innocent. Pray for all of those who have been taken captive, that they may return safely to their loved ones. Intercede for those who will be responsible for the food, water and other aid coming into Iraq, that these may enter into the country as quickly as possible.
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<br />O Lord, please hear the prayers of your servant St. Gunthramnus, that by his intercession we may soon know peace around the world, and that the Iraqi people may soon know freedom, health and especially your love.
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<br />In Jesus precious name we pray.
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<br />Amen.</b>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-915274972003-03-28T00:16:00.000-05:002003-03-29T13:03:19.000-05:00<b><a href="http://www.usccb.org/nab/032803.htm">Click here for Today's Readings</a>
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<br />As I finished today's readings, I just sat back in my chair and said, "Wow." Again we see the big picture of the Incarnation in these readings. Can any of us ever fully grasp it? It is so awesome that God has become one of us so that we could each partake of the Divine Nature. In the Old Testament, you see, before God humbled Himself to become a man (the Incarnation), there were burnt offerings and sacrifices given from the flock. Now, our sacrifices are in our hearts. Love is sacrifice, and it is in our hearts that we make these sacrifices.
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<br />Please take the time to read today's readings, especially the reading from Hosea. You will find great comfort in them.
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<br />God bless you.
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<br />Love from Lisa</b>Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-915262612003-03-27T23:53:00.000-05:002003-03-27T23:56:40.000-05:00<a href="http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/day0327.htm">Click here for all of today's saints </a>
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<br />
<br /><b>A Litany with prayers to today's saints.</b>
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<br />St. Alexander, pray for us!
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<br />St. Alkeld, pray for us!
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<br />St. Amator, pray for us!
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<br />St. Augusta of Treviso, pray for us!
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<br />St. Gelasius, pray for us!
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<br />St. John Damascene, pray for us!
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<br />St. John of Egypt, pray for us!
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<br />St. John of Lycopolis, pray for us!
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<br />St. Matthew of Beauvais, pray for us!
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<br />St. Rupert, pray for us!
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<br />St. William Tempier, pray for us!Lisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-915260612003-03-27T23:49:00.000-05:002003-03-27T23:49:40.263-05:00<a href="http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/saintj45.htm">Click here for Today's Saint</a><br>
<br />St. John DamasceneLisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3818343.post-915258842003-03-27T23:46:00.000-05:002003-03-27T23:46:41.686-05:00<a href="http://www.usccb.org/nab/032703.htm">Click Here for Today's Readings</a><br>
<br />Gee, I'm a bit late with today's readings. Please forgive. :-)
<br />
<br />Today's response in the Responsorial Psalm is one of my favorites...
<br />
<br />"If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts."
<br />
<br />Is there something that you are battling with? Something that is
<br />causing you particular worry? Read today's readings and see that all
<br />good things come from and are fulfilled in God. When we place our
<br />hope in Him alone, we cannot lose. In any battle that we face, if we
<br />are not working for the glory of God, we are destined to lose.
<br />Remember that God is all-just. Everything will be fine as long as we
<br />keep our priorities straight. It is soooo tough sometimes to remember
<br />that, but He is there waiting for you to catch you when you fall, if
<br />you let Him. Weary not yourself with troubles that only serve to tear
<br />away at your relationship with God. Listen for His voice and if you
<br />really do listen, His voice will drown out all the others. Remember
<br />His power and know that you have a share in that power.
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<br />God Bless You.
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<br />Love from LisaLisa Graashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13330383394315891646noreply@blogger.com0