Life's Choices...

We’ve all been subject to making “choices” in our life. Some choices have been good, bad, some so-so choices.  Some choices have been vocational or career choices; some have been speech, friends, lifestyles or even behavioral choices in our day.

However, in making these choices how often do we actually sit and analyze or examine the choice we must yield or even the circumstances and/or consequences we must endure thereafter?

Solomon states in Proverbs 4:26

      Survey the path for your feet and all your ways will be sure

Pretty self-explanatory, huh?!?  Let’s further explore what exactly this verse is detailing…

Survey₌  It is to simply think about the path before we employ and choose to do anything,  To explore and study what the possibilities, weigh out the pro’s and con’s prior to making your choice.

The Path =  the path is a metaphoric path.  It is the journey we call life. 

Your Feet =  is not literally your ten toes – two feet!  It is a figurative verb for action!

All your ways will be sure =  “Wise living does not come by accident. It must be thoughtfully pursued” ~Unkown   

So, before we engage, or choose to do anything we must simply investigate it our actions, then proceed for they will be indisputable. If you are able to SURVEY your PATH for your FEET then in all simplicity your choices will be unquestionable.  In this way we can all walk with  and buoyancy that we made the right choice/discernment in this journey, called life!

Grab your journal:

“There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a miracle the other is as though everything is a miracle” ~ Albert Einstein.  We have the choice to live our lives on the perception of which way we want to live.

Meditate for a moment on three choices you have had to make in your life (you could use the aforementioned list to help guide you).  Did you SURVEY prior to making those particular choices?  Looking back, could you see a difference if you had or had not done a little SURVEYING prior? 

Sunday Family Day!!!

It is 8:40pm and we have decided to make a Churros run... Yay!!!

We live in Homestead, Fl & every once and awhile on a Sunday we take a family trip to Miami & get these amazing Churros from Las Palmas! Today, we have our niece whose visiting from out of state~ I'm excited for her to try these Churros!!!

I absolutely love these stir of the moment, hurry-throw-some-clothes-on, let's go do something crazy with the family moments. I really feel like those are the little things that make memories that last an eternity. But, (& we're guilty) sometimes forget to do the fun stuff... Darn these responsibilities, hectic schedules, & going through the daily motions~ gotta remember to ignite the fire every once & a while!

We're en route... I'll post a picture of these delicious treats 😌

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE!

In case you haven’t already picked up on my grand scheme of things;  I am a huge advocate of LOVE.  Love in every sense of the word…  I truly believe that being a true Christian is about Love!  I mean, Jesus clearly told the Pharisees that the two greatest commandments were: “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it:^* You shall love your neighbor as yourself.  The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.”   Jesus didn’t tell us to only love on some days, or on days that I woke up on the right side of the bed.  He didn’t tell me to love the person who bagged my groceries correctly or not show love to the lesbian couple who said hello to me in the deli section.  He was pretty straight forward on these two commandments….

I truly believe and constantly am advising not only my family but those that I come across with that Christianity is  Love!  However, explaining that concept to three children maybe a bit more challenging ~ trust me!  So, I had to be a little more creative. 

·        *First, PRAY!!!

o   I know it sounds cliché…  But, you will be amazed how you will be directed…  

·       * Secondly, I described the three different types of love:

o   Philio – Brotherly Love

o   Eros – Husband/Wife Love

o   Agape – Unconditional Love

·        *Thirdly, we created a game of different scenarios of how we show love.  I told the kids that sometimes we don’t want to because we are angry or hurt (we are human, these emotions are natural) but what we do with these emotions are key!

o   Ie:  What do we do when we are being bullied?   What should we do when a someone comes up to us and starts to gossip?  What do we do when we see someone doing something wrong?  What should you do when you don’t want to do the “right thing” anymore?

      Etc… <>

·        *Lastly, Accountability!  We are blessed, our kids tell us everything – sometimes, a little more than what we are comfortable knowing. But, we’ll take it – I believe that I’d rather have that than nothing at all!  We have made it a habit to use dinner-time as our re-cap!  At times, our re-cap can turn into life-lessons and it will be a long two hour dinner.  Nonetheless, we take that opportunity to let the kids know how they handled their situations and possibly where they should have flourished love instead!  

      But, the fact that they have someone(s) to go to is key.  It may not always be us.  The children know that they have other persons that they are allowed to reach out to that we trust will lead them in a Christ-filled direction, if need be.  We all need that person(s) that we can fall back to – accountability to assist us on this journey called Life! 

Grab that Journal:

As we get older and inundated with schedules and chaos we must remember that “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” 1Corinthians 13:7 

Have you lost sight of the importance of love in your daily activities and life?  What should you do to kick start the love factor in your life?

... And we meet again...

It has been almost 2 years to the day since my last post. It still astonishes me how quickly time actually flies by. However, I have wanted to kick start my blog again – the concept of the blog was to give everyone a day in the life of my crazy – “Every day is an Adventure” lifestyle I actually had. The problem was, my adventures were so exhausting and overwhelming I truly was not finding the time to do the things (as selfish as this may sound) that I want to do. For instance, this amazing blog, more reading, and at the top of my list more time with God! Needlesstosay, my priorities have been slowly re-prioritizing themselves.

First on the list of things to do – blow off the dust on this blog, give it a little face-lift and a name change! Hope you like it. I’ve been praying for a few days on a new name, researched all kinds of different sites and was flustered. I woke up this morning, opened my daily devotional and guess what the title was – LIVING RIGHTEOUSLY… that’s it! It’s perfect – EUREKA!!!! As I attempted to contain my merriment as the rest of the family sleeps. I grabbed the laptop and gave the blog it’s new name.

The bible verse: So turn from youthful desires and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord* with purity of heart ~2Tim2:2

That’s it! That is exactly is! We ( I ) must strive to live a life of righteousness. Coincidentally, Paul further explains and adds that faith, love and peace. Not as a reminder that Righteousness does not incorporate these three virtues but as a reminder that as you practice a veracious way of living that you don’t lose sight of these vital virtues in the interim. As a woman with many hats, a righteous woman (or person for that matter) should aspire to be faithful, honest, generous, disciplined, loving, kind, humble, grateful, exude temperance, compassion, empathy and patience…

I have a few topics that I have been marinating… I’m going to dig deep, dust off my resource books, engulf in prayer and ride this through… I hope you come along for the ride and live righteously with me!

Reflect:
Grab your journal... Simply answer Yes or No: Are you LIVING RIGHTEOUSLY?
If you feel compelled to continue writing great! But, if you want to stop right there then it's ok as well. If your answer is NO, grab a sticky note and place NO! on your mirror and have it serve as a reminder that you are not living righteously and you are gong to start today! Why not, today is a great day to begin !

"A life with out cause is a life without effect."

If you’re at a corner - you wait for the light to turn red so you can cross the street. Light turns red; all traffic stops and waits for you to cross. But, if you don't take that first step to walk - you'll be stuck there till the next red light. And that vicious cycle will continue ………. until you take that first step!
So, the next time your at that red light – STOP at that light that God has placed in front of you- take a sec to anazlyze why (which He is just simply marinating you for the next big thing)... Then take the stinking step forward! Just Nike it!!!

Vincent Van Gogh once said: What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?

The Road To Emmaus

Cleopas and his friend were deeply saddened by the events that have just occurred in Jerusalem. As they commenced their walk back home to Emmaus, approximately seven miles away, they could not help but discuss what had just happened.

Suddenly, a stranger appeared and joined into their conversation, questioning what they were speaking of. Surprised that the stranger did not know, they begin to explain it to him. The stranger listened. When they were done, the stranger begins to recount the scriptures and answers their questions.

As they approach their home, they invite the stranger in to dine with them. He then takes the bread, blesses it and breaks it – at that moment their eyes were opened to realize that the stranger was in fact the risen, Jesus Christ.

Emmaus can represent many things to many different people. It could represent a place to go when we need to run away; a place to go when faith seems to fail us; or an escape. (ie: a beach home, shopping, a retreat).

Jesus came into their lives patiently listened to them, walked along side of them, encouraging them and finally revealed Himself to them – ultimately bringing them from their Emmaus back to Jerusalem.

We must remember what and how it was like to be on our road to Emmaus, when we were running from our troubles, turmoil and despair. Jesus met us in Emmaus, listened to us and brought us out. If you are stuck in Emmaus, I encourage you keep your ears, eyes and hearts open. You never know when God will join you on your journey and lead you.

I am the vine and you are the branches (John 15:5) As Jesus walked alogside these two men, we too are to walk with those who are troubled and on their way to their Emmaus. Listen to them and guide them back to their Jerusalem.

Christian Glitter by www.christianglitter.com

Quote of the Day =)

“Tradition is the living faith of the dead, traditionalism is the dead faith of the living.”
-Jaroslav Pelikan


Exerpt from: http://christianbookreviews.net/?p=9

Oh Boy!!!

74%How Addicted to Blogging Are You?

Thanks Chincha - This is awesome!!!

Christians Voting

OK – everyone, I know that this is a hard topic, and one that no- one alogn with religion likes to talk about with others. But, I am in a pickle of sorts and need to vent.

I am a Democrat – Yes a hard working – family oriented, was a member of the DEC and the Homestead-Fla city Democratic Party… I take politics very seriously. When it was time for me to choose what party I wanted to be involved in – I did my research and felt that I wanted to be associated with the Democratic party. I believe in working families and better wages, civil rights, I believe in national health care, etc… I still try to stay involved. Some of my closets friends are Dems and most of my family either are Dems or choose to vote Dem.

I am a huge Obama fanatic!!! He is an incredible speaker, mentor, father and husband. He is being very adamant on the hunt for a shift in perspective for all Americans. I believe that is exactly what N. America needs right now. With the struggles of recent Bush Administration turmoil, we require someone in office that will re-unite the nation and I believe that Obama can do just that. Hence, why I have chosen to vote for him!

So, now that you have an idea of my view on Dems, I am Christian. Does it really matter you ask? Well, my hubby and I have been “discussing” this for a few weeks now. My husband votes democrat but is a registered Republican. He recently became a man of God and is diligently working toward a new life within himself and with the family. In doing so, he has changed his thought process significantly. He doesn’t see how we can be both Christian and Democratic at the same time. He is battling over the decision of how to vote this coming election. It seems he is battling the concept of a true Christian voter (more Conservative) and the candidates that are actually running. He brought up a valid point, if we are pro-life – how can we vote someone in to office who is pro-choice. However, I thought – even if we are pro-life and we vote a candidate who is pro-life, who’s to say that he won’t send thousands of our fellow brothers and sisters to die overseas. Does an American Soldier have no worth over a hopeless fetus?

Voting is the most overwhelming way to make the nation hear what you have to say. If we vote toward someone whose values and morals are misguided, then that is how he will run the nation. Conversely, if we vote for someone who values their morals, our country will be lead to that direction.

The way I see it is that the separate between church and state does not entice Christians not to voice their beliefs and opinions. God teaches us to balance the earthly and spiritual portions of our lives. We have been blessed us with free will and the said will to choice who we believe will be the best at leading this nation under God. I am Christian before I am Democrat. Hence, why I am choosing to vote for a person who has a strong Christian edification, morals and values! Having someone in office with such standing will ultimately lead the nation accordingly!

Grace

Humans were disgraced with Adam and Eve and regained its sanctified grace through Jesus Christ. As a result, “grace can not be accepted or rejected” (Himes Track7). It is something one has intertwined in their soul; sanctifying grace is the type of grace that God assimilated into our souls. . We are all blessed with His grace and Himes describes grace as: When God chooses to give God self away outside the Trinity it is called grace (Himes). The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Understanding Catholicism describes how the “Catholic Church believes in both grace (the gift of God’s presence in our life) and our own good nature” (CIGTUC p7). I like Being Catholic further states that “Grace is everywhere. All is grace! Catholicism affirms life, affirms flesh, affirms pleasure, affirms art and music, affirms a God who is present in the object and events and persons of daily life” (ILBC p4-5). “Divinity is everywhere and in everything… ILBC p9).

Himes describes grace as the underlining factor of nature; as your palm underlies the back of your hand. The two entities are not considered separately but just your hand. You can not separate the two (grace and nature). In fact, in our daily lives we are not to distinguish between our sacred and our secular life. As I work in the ministries in our parish, I use the water and oil analogy. Water and oil do not mix. Hence, the hesitation to keep the two perspectives separate.

God will send us a temporary edification described as actual grace to help strengthen our minds, our hearts and most importantly our souls. This in turn is the presence of the Holy Spirit. You have a decision or will to not to cooperate with the actual grace. An example that I use in speaking with the ministries is: Mass has just ended and you are pulling out of the Church’s parking lot. You are become frustrated at the person who is requesting to cut you off and you react un-wholly… The sanctifying grace brought you to mass but your will to disregard your actual grace lead you to become frustrated in the parking lot. It is ultimately your choice. You must discern all that God has placed in front of you – every actual grace that God sends your way will help strengthen the sanctifying grace of your soul…

Proto-Gospel

The word Gospel translates to mean “good news”. The essence of the good news of Yeshua is simply love. But not just a philios (brotherly) love but a deeper agape (unconditional love) as a parent would implement with their child. Yeshua clearly stated: You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37)

I believe that love is key, an essential fragment that needs to be implemented in everything one does. In turn, because God has this unconditional love for each one of us; it will enable us to do the same for those around us. “God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him” (1John 4:16) Yeshua has shown me nothing but unconditional love and in doing so, I have been able to portray that love in everything I do. The love of Christ is embedded in my every thought, in all of my senses, all of my experiences and relationships. It is important to stress the love of thy neighbor, which was Yeshua’s second new found commandment, You shall love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:38). Which in turn further clarifies: "If you love me, you will keep my commandments (John 14:15).

Love is “divine” because it comes from God and unites us to God; through this unifying process it makes us a “we” which transcends our divisions and makes us one, until in the end God is “all in all” (Deus Caritas Est 18)

Quote of the Day

There are no accidents...
there is only some purpose
that we have yet understood

-Deepak Chopra

Video - Jesus Muzik

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=e782c65a973ef76fd540

Quote of the Day...

I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.

-C.S. Lewis

What should I give up for Lent?

Many of us try to be more disciplined for Lent and give up something that we really like. That’s great! Fasting has always been an important tradition of Lent. This year however, let us also consider other things that we can give up.

Give up complaining - Focus on gratitude
Philippians 2:14&15 – Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure…
1 Thessalonians 5:18 – Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Jesus

Christ.Give up bitterness - Turn to forgiveness
Ephesians 4:31 – Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind and compassionate to one another forgiving each other, just as in

Christ God forgave you.Give up worry - Trust in God
Matthew 6:25 – “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life… who by worrying can add a single hour to his life?”
Matthew 6:33 – But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Give up discouragement - Be full of hope
Deuteronomy 31:8 – The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you: he will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Isaiah 40:31 – But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Give up hatred - Return good for evil
1 John 2:9 – Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness.
Luke 6:27 – “But I tell you who hear me; Love your enemies, do good to those who hate
you.”

Give up anger - Be more patient
Matthew 5:22 – But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.
Proverbs 15:18 – A hot tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.

Give up gossiping - Control your tongue
Psalm 34:13 – Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.Proverbs 21:23 – He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.

The Catholic Church...

Below is one of my homework assignments for school. It talks about the early Church and it's turmoil. Thought I'd share...

In 337 Emperor Constantine died. Constantine’s sons, whose views were different, “ultimately divided the empire” (p 37). Constantine became an extremist against the pagans. He enforced the death penalty for any non-Christian works and often forcefully destroyed. In doing so, Christianity penetrated throughout the region. However, in the fourth century Emperor Theodius banned “all pagan cults and sacrificial rites” leading the Catholic Church to become the “state church” (p38).

There were many positive and negative dimensions due to this change. For instance one positive aspect was that the initial church as they knew It had grown over time. It was no longer an oral religion that was spoken behind closed doors and in hiding. This religion had grown into the state (politics), humanities and even into a strong hierarchy to manage same. This hierarchy is “still exist today, Rome, Patriarchate of West, New Rome, Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem.

Conversely, the negatives were just as challenging, if not more. The extreme opposite commenced. This election of official state church created so much frenzy through out the region not only between the Christians and other religions, but also amongst the Christians themselves; “for the first time now Christians killed other Christians because of differences in their views of the faith” (Molloy p38).

I personally believe that everything happens for a reason. If the church had not gone through the turmoils and tribulations she went through early in history, we would not have the church we have today. As everything else, it is vital that everything evolves to some degree. Evolve enough to make a statement, but not enough where we will loose our roots and traditions. This was the main reason why we had Vatican II; times were changing and the church was stagnant.

The Church also maintains that beneath all changes there are many realities which do not change and which have their ultimate foundation in Christ, Who is the same yesterday and today, yes and forever. Hence under the light of Christ, the image of the unseen God, the firstborn of every creature, the council wishes to speak to all men in order to shed light on the mystery of man and to cooperate in finding the solution to the outstanding problems of our time. (Gaudium Et Spes 10) http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_cons_19651207_gaudium-et-spes_en.html

Are you facing your Giants?

Hi there. I know, I know... As most of you know, I have started working again. Wow, talk about a challenge I didn't think was possible a year and some ago. =) However, I have been blessed once again with another great company, great co-workers and and awesome boss. The company is close to the house (not having to travel too much).

I can't believe that it is the first day of February already. The month has flown by. If you guys are anything like me, not even taken a second to appreciate the month. As we start our preparation for Lent (yes, I said Lent - already!) we need to get ourselves on track... See my next post on Lent Preparations...

Conversely, this post is focusing on Giants (Something that evil holds over your head to lead you away from your ultimate goal - GOD). Unfortunately, we all have Giants. For example, fear of failure is a huge Giant of mine. I will find myself guiding my decisions because I don't want to feel like I've failed at something else. It is a very deep and debilitating feeling. It has taken many sleepless/crying nights to feel like I have made strides on on shooting this Giant with my sling. I can only imagine what your Giants are? Is your Giant holding you from accomplishing the goal that you know you have to do.

You need to ask yourself - If God places a task in front of you - are you going to accept it? Or are you going to let the Giant brainwash you into thinking that you are not worthy, you can't do it alone, you will never complete it (like anything else you start), you are not good enough to do the task, the fear that you will make a fool of yourself or any other negative thought he will throw your way. Any of these sound familiar?

Evil will stop at nothing. So, should you. You have your task at hand, God has blessed you with free will to choose what you would like to do. Are you going to listen to your Giants continue to bring you down and keep you from progressing in life and keep you in that dark place? Or are you going to take that leap of faith and blindly trust God into your next chapter of life.

I know I have said it before, but you need to make sure that you have the resources to help you along the way readily available. If you are feeling those Giants creeping in - first and foremost, I start off with the Holy Spirit Prayer :

O, Holy Spirit beloved of my Soul, I adore You. Enlighten me, Guide Me Strengthen me. Console me. I promise to Submit myself to all that you desire of me. And to acept all that you Permit to Haapen to me. Let me only know YOUR WILL!

Secondly, "phone a friend". Your support group needs to be on speed dial - if you think about it twice evil will give you an excuse not to call them. You guys, know you can call me for anything at any time (hubby's used to it already, lol) Thirdly, call in air support (the Angels) you can't go wrong with calling in the troops when times get tough. St. Michael is the defender against evil - hasn't failed me yet - Praise GOD!

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; And do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits Who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen

Lastly, saturate it in prayer. Every step of your way needs to be saturated in prayer. In doing so, you will find the strength to stomp on your Giant and move on to the next chapter of your life.

It is not going to be easy - but I can guarantee that with God's grace you will get through it. Keep the faith and He will guide you through...
I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me (PH4:13)

Need some theme music...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwbbDK6Ltgs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68q8y5nkdPo&feature=related
(Facing the Giants - awesome movie - a must see!)

I love you
Blessings.
<><

Quote of the Day!!!!

We need, men so possessed by the Spirit of God that God can think His thoughts through our minds, that He can plan His will through our actions, that He can direct His strategy of world evangelization through His Church.

Alan Redpath.

First Sunday of Advent... 12/2/07

I wanted to share with you, a detail of this Sunday's Readings. It is the first Sunday of Advent. Advent derives from the Latin word, advenio, meaning "to come". It usually a period of meditation and preparation for the "coming" or birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God overthrows the thrones of those who are disobedient to His law. My political views are those of the Our Father.
-- St. Avitus of Vienna

The First Reading comes from Isaiah 2:1-5
The Second Reading comes from Romans 13:11-14
The Gospel comes from Matthew 24:37-44

I have realized that these verses were the perfect way to jump start this Advent season. As I read these verse, I realized that they are simple instructions in which we are to live our lives by. " That he may instruct us in his ways,
and we may walk in his paths.” By us stopping and listening to what God is instructing us to do (His ways) inturn we may walk in the illuminated path and that He has etched for us

In case you didn't understand it the first time, the second reading goes further into details... It is time to wake up and realize how important it is to live as disciples. We should "throw off the works of darkness". These works of darkness are the sins we have committed. We must remember that God does not out weigh any one sin - a sin is a sin... Whether it is drunkenness, drugs, lust, or jealously. The commencement of Advent is the perfect opportunity to repent and cleanse ourselves of the darkness we have embedded in our souls. After we have repented our sins, we are to "put Him on". As if it were an Armour of war - we have Him on all the time, (in our daily lives, in our hopes, in our dreams, in our souls) to help us fight the battles and avoid any further provisions of the flesh...

The Gospel took me back a little... I just wasn't sure why they would reference Noah. I had to seek guidance on this one... It was explained to me that during the time of Noah, everyone one was caught up in their everyday lives. They were too caught up in their everyday lives that they could not hear the voice of God. Noah and his family stopped and heard God speak and realized that there was more to live than the everyday earthly routine they had been succumbed to. They abided God's will and were saved along with the animals. Everyone else was washed away by the flood. So, there is two extremes: one in which we are sinning and the other in which we are just living the earthly life. Not paying attention to what God has been advising just going with the flow...

We have to "stay AWAKE". We need to be on our toes at all times. We can not let sin take control of our lives. If our Lord makes it His will to come again in judgment - where will you go. Will you be left here to face the reality of your wrongdoings or "taken" to the kingdom as explained in scripture. You will not have time to react or repent - it will just be.

Advent should be a time of self-revival, preparation, reconciliation and meditation of the "coming" of our Lord both in birth - as if He is being born within ourselves; and in the "coming" of our Lord on Judgment Day.

The Gospel reading tells us that our hope is realized only if we stay awake and alert to the activities of Christ. What are you despairing about? Despair and worry are merely an attempt by the devil to make you forget that Christ has already won the battle for you. If we stay alert to the presence of Christ, recognizing his authority and following his ways, we live in hope — not wishful thinking, but a hope that's based firmly on reality. (Terry Modica)

Advent Wreath: http://www.ewtn.com/devotionals/Advent/wreath.htm

May God continue to bless you and yours during this joyous season.

Love, Your Sister In Christ,
Lisa

Temptation By Alysa vazquez

There are different types of temptations the most common one is lying. But don't let them get to you. Because if they get to you it will burn inside and you will turn to the wrong side. If you read 1 Corinthians 10:13 God will strengthen you so you won't go to the bad side of life and he will help you make the right decisions. Love lots, Alysa Vazquez :)

Find Him = Finding Life

‘Those who find me find life, and the Lord will be pleased with them.’

-Proverbs 8:35

It is such an assertive statement. Such conviction in all it’s glory. Simply stated… If we seek Him (as we are all called to do) we will find life. As we know there is no life without Him. We are not to seek out life first. If we do we will be bounded by earthly issues and materials. However, if we seek Him first than we can see the life He has intended for us (with minimal bunts against that wall!). In turn, He will be pleased (…’the Lord will be pleased with them’) as any earthly father would be as their child excels at anything. I believe our ultimate goal is such that – to do anything and everything we can to ‘please Him’.

This verse is a perfect example of How what my friend AJ would remind me; the bible is our “Basic Instructions Before we Leave Earth”.

It’s the little things…

What is the difference between today and a year ago?

It is important to continually keep yourself evolving in The Lord. And so it is important to continually "check yourself". I have learned that it is not important to know where you are going exactly but rather that you are definitely headed somewhere with Jesus at your side. As desperate as the general public is to seek a definite answer to what will happen next....how adventurous would life be if we knew how it will all work out? Still the inward struggle of letting go and demanding answers is a daily one. But slowly the struggle fades because God loves me. When I began returning to that reality, that God not only loves us all but also He loves ME, individually, abundantly and perfectly...it has made all the difference. It is definitely one of those things you thought you believed until you really truly accepted it as a reality.
SO what is the difference between today and a year ago? The difference is simple and amazing:God loves ME, individually, abundantly and perfectly. I have issues, bountiful and complicated individually and collectively. His hand has been at work in my life perfectly since before I came to exist, all the days between when I ignored Him then stopped ignoring Him then ignored Him again and so on. Because God loves me, I know He knows all of me, better than I do. He has known what He is doing all along and in all the days to come. And because of this, the purest trust blazes in my heart thus igniting FAITH, HOPE and LOVE for all things, perfect and imperfect, simple and complex but primarily love for God. I have often claimed that I have never been in love. I can't do that anymore. I am in love....his name is Jesus, the captain of the Varsity People team. And God has been the Father I have never had, never knew I missed, and can't do without. I know that now, I didn't know that a year ago.

Time For Action

Good News ReflectionTuesday of the 25th Week in Ordinary TimeSeptember 25, 2007
Today's Readings:Ezek 6:7-8, 12b, 14-20Ps 122:1-5Luke 8:19-21http://www.usccb.org/nab/092507.shtml

Time for action

The message in today's Gospel reading is short and sweet. Oh how truly sweet it is! To hear Jesus say that we are as dear to him as his own Blessed Mother, not to mention his other close relatives -- this is pure delight. But we're only that special if we're DOING the Word of God.
Jesus is telling each of us that it's possible to be part of his inner circle of closest family. This should motivate us to get off our prayer chairs and fly into action, changed by the Word of God, directed by the Word, empowered by the Word, making a difference in the world through the love that IS the Word, the love WHO is the Word made flesh.

Why do you think so many prayers of Christ's household (the Church) go unanswered? For example, at every Mass the priest prays, "Free us from all anxiety," yet how many of us suddenly stop worrying about our problems? This prayer is only answered when we learn what the Word says about trusting God AND we act upon it.

Why is it that a parish can add the Prayer to Saint Michael ("defend us in battle") to the end of daily Mass yet remain in division or under financial attack? It's because we shouldn't be waiting on angels to do all the work for us; to overcome the enemy while the angels defend us, we have to act upon what the Word says about community and unity or stewardship and generosity.

When we pray the Rosary, what value is there in reciting, "Lead all souls to heaven, especially those in most need of your mercy," unless we are doing acts of mercy and reaching out to lost souls to help guide them to heaven? What good is it to recite the Divine Mercy prayer, "Have mercy on us and on the whole world," if we are not doing acts of mercy to spread God's healing love?

Why has the decline in priesthood and religious vocations continued, even after many years of many prayers for an increase? Praying is not enough. We need to pay attention to what the Word says about our own calling to ministry -- the laity as well as the ordained -- and act upon it. By being joyful, passionate ministers who are motivated by a love that goes the extra mile, our attitude will inspire others to hear and respond to their own callings. Clergy who live their vocation as a pastoral ministry instead of a job and laity who are collaboratively unified with the clergy in doing the work of God's kingdom will inspire energy for new vocations, consecrated lives, and more lay ministers.

Prayer without action is meaningless. Action without knowing the Word of God is misdirected. Hearing the Word and then acting upon it is true kinship with Christ. May we all grow as close to Jesus as his own mother. Amen!

*Taken from GoodNewsReflection*

Do not worry about tomorrow…

"
Once again another ‘easier said then done’ phrase. Since this life-changing accident I’ve really been listening to what God’s been saying. Even in the most insignificant events, phrases, anything. (I know You’re There – Casting Crowns)

So, I am coming to the conclusion that this accident has occurred for many many many many more reasons than I can possibly think of. In not only hearing how so many people where directly /indirectly affected by this accident are nothing short of miracles. However, within myself it seems that so many things were being red flagged. I’m going to only touch on this one realization now…

I was and still struggle with worrying. I must say that I have improved in this department. The accident left me somewhat debilitated and leaving me completely dependent. And for those who really know me (and witnessed it first hand) know that was not OK with me. However, in time I found myself so helpless that I know that I needed the assistance to even brush my teeth or my hair. Nonetheless, the worry level went off the charts… I worried and worried and worried.

o How was this going to affect my three children?

o How was this going to affect my current relationships?

o How was this going to affect my job? After landing a great job with great co-workers and bosses (that doesn’t happen very often).

o When will this all be over?

o When can I get back to the swing of things?

Countless unanswered questions, all covered with a layer of humor. I tried not to show how worried I really was. There came a point in that rut that I started to realize the truth behind ‘Everything Happens for a Reason’. A phrase I used to use so loosely. It gave a whole new meaning to “Let Go and Let God”. I had to let go of everything and I mean everything: Self-Respect, Fear, Worry, Depression, Loneliness, Self-image with my disfigured face, EVERYTHING! After I let it go, I offered it up to God. I basically said Here you go my Lord, I am offering this huge burden up to You. I can’t seem to handle this any longer. I’m so tired. I can’t walk this walk any longer. I am so frustrated and whatever Your will is Be done…

Soon after I started to sift through the rubble of what the accident left behind and start to glue the pieces back together. Don’t get me wrong, I am still fighting with the darn glue. But, I have come to the realization that tomorrow is just that TOMORROW! I need to place more focus on TODAY – Pray about Today – Get through TODAY first.

‘DO NOT WORRY ABOUT TOMORROW, TOMORROW WILL TAKE CARE OF ITSELF’
MATT6:34

WHO AM I? Evngelist Dorinda Hicks

(Forwarded by Ivonne)

Who am I? This is a question we should ask ourselves from time to time. I am not the same person I was a year ago. I am not the same person I was before I dedicated my life to God. With each day of life, our circumstances and life experiences help us to answer that question. Many times we answer this question by what we did in our past or for some of us what we are still doing.
Some of us value who we are by what type of job we have, or by how much money we have. But let us look deeper than just our occupations to answer this question. Let us check on ourselves, inside ourselves.

Who am I? I did not always like the answer that came with that question. Ok, facts, I have not always liked the person I was. I had a lot of issues. I was tore up from the floor up and believe it or not that is the time in my life I really thought I had it going on. I was sadly mistaken. I am not perfect today, but I thank God today, to want to know the things about myself that are not like Him that need to go. Do I like it? Not always, but for me to get closer to Him, there are some things about me that need to check out.

There is a side of all of us, that we do not want no one else to know about. It is usually that side of you, that needs to go. We all have issues. The person who thinks they do not have one has one. PRIDE! We do not have to think low of ourselves but the Word tells us not to think to highly of ourselves. As long as we got breathe to breath there is hope. You may be one of those lucky people who feel you do not have issues, but as long as you live on this earth with imperfect people, you will be challenged. Do you always hold your cool? Do you always answer everybody with a sweet, happy response? I'm just checking! People make life hard sometimes. It is hard to love the unlovable, but guess what, we are called to do it. Can it be done? Yes! Will it always be an easy task? No! But in this, try to see God in everything you do. He is teaching you patience. So was that journey in vain? No! If you learned something, then you have something under your belt to take with you to the next level in God. You have another tool to help you with the next unlovable person that will cross your path, and believe me someone else will cross your path.

When I think about who I am, I think about who I use to be. Thank God that when we give our lives to him, we become new creatures. I will never forget where I came from, but I no longer dwell there. Today, realizing that God had a plan for me, and once I got back on track with God, the plan was reactivated. More important today, is not who I am, but who God says I am. I know I am a child of God. I know I am more than a conqueror. I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I know that no weapon formed against me will prosper. I know that God has a plan for my life. I know today that I am walking in the purpose and destiny that God ordained for me.

Nothing happens by chance. There is not anyone who crosses your path for no reason. It is up to us to find out what part in your life they are to play. Is your secret more important than helping someone else walk in their deliverance? If we choose to hide behind our scars, or keep them to ourself, it may be a soul that you can help by just telling your story that will not get helped. You may be the one chosen to give them a smile today. You may be the one chosen to encourage them today. You may be the one chosen to help them lift their head up today. We never know what others are going through. We have our sister and brothers medicine, but will we share what we have? We all have some skeletons in our closets. I made choices in my life that I am not proud of, but I thank God today for just being God. Because of his grace and mercy I am still here. He saved me and I have a chance today to make better choices. The same things in my life that once had me so bound, were stepping stones to get me to where I am today. It is because of my past, I have such a passion for my relationship with God. It means so much to me to know that through it all, God loved me when I did not love myself. That through it all, He never left me or forsaked me. That through it all, He gave me his grace and mercy and not the justice that I so deserved. That is why I love God with all my heart and soul.

Today, I challenge you to check on yourself. Who are you? Who does God say you are? Are you walking in your purpose? If not then why not? There is so much work to do for the kingdom. We have to get in our places. There is a God sized assignment for each of us that was chosen for us before the beginning of time. Everybody is not a preacher, but we are all teachers. We teach by example. Someone is always watching you. What type of standards are you living by? We are to represent Jesus Christ? What type of representative are you? Who we are in God is awesome! It is better than any job description I could ever give you!

You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

What Music Means To Me

(Written by Alysa Vazquez, 11 yrs old)

Music means everything to me. There is at least one song to fit any of my different moods. I like all kinds of music. If you would ask me to pick a favorite song, I can’t because I like a lot of songs from different genres. For instance, I like Pop, Country-Pop, Hip Hop, Classical, Classic Rock, Smooth Jazz, Motown and Christian music. My mother used to tell me that she would play classical and smooth jazz music through head phones and place it on her tummy to calm me down. I guess that’s why I like listening to these types of music. My family loves to listen to music. We can just be cleaning the house and jamming to Motown and study listening to Tchaikovsky. We are always listening to something good.

As I said before there are at least one song that fits any of my mood. My typical mood of is mostly happy. When I am happy I usually listen to The Jonas Brothers, Kenny Chesney, or Rascal Flatts. They keep making me feel good inside. For instance, Hold On from the Jonas Brothers talks about if you were having a bad day to just HOLD ON and things will be ok. Another song that keep me happy is Backwards from Rascal Flatts is so funny that it makes me laugh. It will make any bad day brighter. However, if I ‘m feeling lonely I would listen to Summertime from Kenny Chesney. Besides, I love to drink Yoo Hoo too.

I am Christian/Catholic and I don’t listen to a lot of music they play on the radio. I do listen to 89.7 SPIRIT FM; it is an all CHRIST related positive music. They play Christian Pop, Rock, Hip-Hop and Rap. You do get used to listening to it, it is pretty cool. Actually, I listen to more Christian music than any other type of music. One of my favorite bands is Casting Crowns. They write their own music and it is absolutely awesome. They just released a new album called The Altar and The Door. There is a song on this album called East to West. It is basically talking about how much Christ loved us to choose to die on the cross for us. The way His hands are nailed to the cross “from East to West – from one scarred hand to the other”. Christian music tends to be how He sends messages to us. I love to listen to it and reflect on it.

Country Music can be positive as well. I usually listen to Country-Pop. It is regular Pop music with a country beat and flare. Some bands and singers I like listening to are Brooks and Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Billy Ray Cyrus, Sugarland, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Gretchen Wilson. Carrie Underwood has a great song called Jesus Take The Wheel. Gretchen Wilson has a song that we are not all California girls. They seem to be more family oriented and it tends to be positive music. The beats are good and catchy.

Another of my favorite genres to listen to is Motown. My parents listen to Motown when they were growing up and they had us do the same. One of my favorite is Diana Ross and the Supremes, ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ or ‘Stop in the Name of Love’. Also another Motown group is Earth, Wind and Fire with ‘September’ and ‘Boogie Wonderland’. There are so many kinds of songs that I like in the Motown section. It makes me feel like dancing especially with my parents.

I also like to listen to Pop. I listen to Radio Disney on 990 AM. They play a lot of kid music for my little brother. But, they also play good music for my sister and me. For instance, they do play Jonas Brothers as I said before. They also play Hanna Montana (Miley Cyrus – Billy Ray Cyrus’ daughter), High School Musical 1 and 2 songs. A lot of these songs make me want to dance and sing along. Some of them are sad but since I know them by heart it makes it so much better. I can relate to some of the songs since they are talking about kids and their everyday lives. For instance, I play Softball and the song Hey Batter-Batter from High School Musical 2 is one that I can relate to. Another one is Nobody’s Perfect from Hanna Montana. It is so true, nobody is perfect and sometimes I think I am, but I remember that I am not.

I know I am not alone in thinking that music has lost its touch over time. It’s hard to find good music now-a-days. What you hear is things kids our age shouldn’t be listening to. A lot of people these days think music has come back from its “shell”. Other people think that music is “dead”. By saying dead I mean that over the years good music has become extinct. It seems that the more popular music has no meaning to it. It’s just a bunch of words with a catchy beat.

I think that you would have to listen and determine what you think about different music. Some people may like certain kinds of music and others will disagree. We should be thinking about what is important in life and not worrying about material things which seems to be more popular. Music is a cool way to express your self in any way. We should make it a positive way.

Relationships are a science: some elements work great together, others not so much? The dynamics of a destructive relationship isn't the subject at hand here. Today, I'd like to talk about the aftermath...

Have you ever noticed that every kind of relationship can result in the same kind of emotional scars? The kind of relationship isn't what defines the aftermath (brother/sister, friendship, bf/gf, etc.) It's the elements that were involved in the relationship that produce these emotional battle wounds. For instance, is there any type of a lie? No, a lie is a lie, no matter which way you cut it, or who was the liar. Is there different types of betrayal. Nope...the circumstances are different but when the sun goes down, betrayal is betrayal. How about disillusion? Nope, the journey of disillusion is a complex and unique one for each of us. But at the end of the day, disillusion in a person, thing, idea,plan....hurts just the same. So how come we find it so difficult to reach out to each other in the aftermath of relationships? The common demoninator in all of these is that we became vulnerable to a person, thing, idea, plan and what you would have bet the house on, turned out to be a complete fallacy that left you bruised and battered.

"Once upon a time, there was a dog named Puppy. Puppy came into this world ready to love and hug and cherish everyone in Puppy's life because that is what drove it's heart: unconditional love. But Puppy ran into people who did not share in it's ideals about love. They told it that they did but then why did they hurt, lie, deceive it the way that they did? In the beginning of the trials that Puppy faced, it took all the emotional and sometimes physical beatings that it received from the people Puppy wanted to love and hug and cherish unconditionally and did not fight back. But eventually, Puppy began to hold back on his desire to love and hug and cherish everyone unconditionally. In fact, Puppy began to fight back and adapted a defensive, aggressive, ultra-independent approach to dealing with the elements that tortured it's fragile little heart. One day, the abuse stopped, and Puppy began to be taken care of by different people who wanted to love and hug and cherish Puppy like it was initially born to do. But Puppy could not let it's guard down. Puppy maintained the defensive, ultra-independent position on life and barked and bit those that approached it, regardless if there intentions were to give Puppy what it most desired in the world..."

Can you relate to Puppy? Have you been hurt, betrayed, deceived and disillusioned so bad that you bite now, but not as a defense but because you don't know any better? I can relate to Puppy. It's only logical! Why would I continually put myself out there so that all I can get in return is people hurting me? I am not a masochist! I want to be adored, respected, trust and be trusted....but if I go by my past, if I go by what people have shown me are capable of doing to me once I let my guard down, I should lock myself in my room and never leave. In fact, the wise plan seems to be that I completely numb myself from everyone, everything...the whole world. Robots have it easy dude, they function and they never have to worry about people hurting them or becoming vulnerable. Robots can carry the whole weight of the world and not break a sweat. Sounds like a plan to me....

And it was my plan, until I met the person that changed my whole life. This person touched my heart, my soul and the closer I get to this person, the more healing I receive. The tears of the past have turned into healing tears, each drop mending everything inside of me that was broken. This person was the first rebel to walk this earth, never cursed, never raised his voice, always loved selflessly, only so that he can be crucified and disrespected from the first scourge to this very moment. His name is Jesus.

Who is this King of Glory that pursues me with his love?And haunts me with each hearing of His softly spoken words. My conscience, a reminder of forgiveness that I need. Who is this King of Glory who offers it to me? Who is this King of angels, O blessed Prince of Peace. Revealing things of Heaven and all its mysteries.My spirit's ever longing for His grace in which to stand. Who's this King of glory, Son of God and son of man.His name is Jesus, precious Jesus. The Lord Almighty, the King of my heart.The King of glory. Who is this King of Glory with strength and majesty. And wisdom beyond measure, the gracious King of kings.The Lord of Earth and Heaven, the Creator of all things. He is the King of Glory, He's everything to me.

We become bitter, distrustful, hyper-sensitive, emotionally introverted, and even cold hearted when our whole heart is placed in the hands of another person and they beat it, crush it, hurt it, burn it and tear it apart. It's painful, it's almost in-human to want to do it to yourself again. But things change when you place your heart first and foremost in Jesus' hands. Your best friend is not the friend you've known since 6th grade. Your best friend will always be Jesus. Once he becomes your motive for everything you do, say, think, plan, etc., you will be guided to the people who will have no other intention but to be there the way you need, deserve, and yearn for. A relationship built on the love for Christ can weather all storms, all misunderstandings. A relationship built on the love for Christ is bound by the blood he shed for us because he loves us. Even then, there is never a guarantee that you will never get hurt again. But meditate on this: Does Jesus get respected the way he should? Does he get loved the way that he should? Has he ever gone thru some kind of betrayal, deception and abuse? Would you agree, that if JESUS gave himself selflessly for the gifts of eternal life for US and we, 2 thousand and seven years later, are still incapable of giving him the love and honor and respect that he deserved, that he earned, perfection and love in the flesh.... ask yourself, how we can expect imperfect people to love us in the perfect way that each one of us hungers for, when Jesus himself does not get what he deserves from us?

People will continue to hurt each other because we are imperfect. People will continue to hurt each other because they don't know any better. If you know better, then you will love better. Know Jesus and you will love better. Know Jesus, and he will provide people in your life that will heal every part of your broken heart and soul. Not because they, mere mortals, know how. But because if the people in your life, truly know Jesus, they will love you like Jesus would if he was here with us in the flesh today. My healers are my friends. Who are your healers? If you are at a place in your life where you find yourself living the "battered puppy syndrome", pray for guidance and ask God to unveil your eyes from the pain of yesterday to the people in your life meant to be there for you. If there is a relationship that has left you broken and scared, and you don't even know how to get on the road of recovery, Jesus style....here are your guidelines:

1. The Bible


2. The Mass


3. The Rosary (or any form of prayer)


4. The Blessed Sacrament


5. Confession

It is definitely a process that is easier said than done. No arguments here!!! But, keep in mind that you are never alone.

P.S. "Forgiveness is relieving a person from the obligations that resulted when they injured you"-Dr. James McDonald

Bella Rodriguez-Torres

Please keep a special little girl in your prayers, Bella Rodriguez-Torres. Bella's father is an Emmaus brother from St. John Neuman... We were blessed from her story by a close friend of my husband, Kris. Kris attended an Emmaus meeting wherein Bella's father was speaking with regards to his precious daughter and the miracles they have been blessed with... You may read more on their webpage: http://www.caringbridge.org/cb/inputSiteName.do?method=search&siteName=bellart

'Your Spiritual Maturity'

"Reference: Zechariah 13:1-9

Why does God test our faith in order to increase our endurance? God's goal for your trials is your growth into spiritual adulthood. That won't happen without some pain, sweat, and effort. Imagine a young person announcing, I want to be a physician, but I don't want to spend all those years in medical school!

You and I may chuckle at a comment like that. But we do something similar in the spiritual realm when all we can think of is getting out from under our trials as quickly as possible and avoiding future trials. God wants to mature us, not just make us comfortable.

But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ's gift... until we all attain to the unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the extent of the full stature of Christ Ephesians 4:7, 13

When a butterfly is ready to leave the cocoon, it has to fight its way out. IF you open the cocoon to help the butterfly get out, you have doomed that butterfly because it needs that struggle to strengthen its wings so it can fly.

God is too kind and too wise to allow us to remain in spiritual immaturity, whining whenever things don't go our way and demanding what we want when we want it. His goal is that we might "become conformed to the image of His Son"(Romans 8:29) and He will not be satisfied until we get there."

Dr. Tony Evans
Today's Alternative

Dedicated

The essence of being a Christian is, in my opinion, a thorough dedication to God.

As Jesus said in (John 8:29) “The one who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, because I always do what is pleasing to him."

In Mark 2:18-22 Jesus reminds us that if we pour new wine into old wineskins, the skins burst and we lose everything. Think of the new spiritual growth that we’ve experienced lately, Are we trying to pour our new life into our old ways of doing things? Are we trying to serve God, whether it is here in Emmaus, or any other ministry? Yet when we’re out there, we continue to do shady things. Whether it’s at home neglecting our wives and/or our kids; in our business, doing things that we know are not right or keep taking that hit we know will just be a quick fix, so we think… Do we honestly believe that this is the way to grow spiritually? We must not get distracted when we see ourselves doing good things, and others seeing it too, and then getting complacent, and stop listening to what God is trying to tell us.

I don’t think it’s pleasing to God when we intentionally sin. We must not feel that by doing a couple of good things that makes it okay for us to get off the right path. We sometimes get caught up in the world, and attempt to justify it by saying, well I just served at a retreat, let me take this hit, or let me sleep with this girl, or whatever your preferred sin is.

I feel that it’s not always a question of what God can do for me, but what more can I do for Him. How much of us don’t dedicate more of ourselves, because we don’t have the time? I know I sometimes say I don’t have the time or the energy to do this or that, but the time we have, we have because God gives it to us. We are to give God the first fruits, as it says in the bible. We must stay disciplined in all aspects of our lives:

· There’s daily mass

· daily devotions

· reading the bible

· staying connected with spiritual people

· Stewardship...

If you need help to stay focused, dedicated, do what it takes to stay in line and follow that path that a lot of us were put on thanks to Emmaus.

· If Drugs are your problem, and you can’t quit, GET HELP!

· Abuse (Verbal and/or Physical), GET HELP

· Marital/Family Issues GET HELP

· Pornography, GET HELP

You get the point. Whatever it is we must stand up and not let PRIDE get in the way.

We have no excuse when the Day of Judgment comes, we know right from wrong,

As it says in…Matthew 7:21-24 “Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS. Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

I want to do what God wants for me, not the other way around, like me doing whatever I want and hope it’s in line with what God’s will is.

That’s why I’m dedicated to do God’s will.