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Sunday, April 6, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
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
-Jaroslav Pelikan
Exerpt from: http://christianbookreviews.net/?p=9
Monday, March 24, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
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!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
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…
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…
Saturday, March 15, 2008
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)
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)
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Quote of the Day
There are no accidents...
there is only some purpose
that we have yet understood
-Deepak Chopra
there is only some purpose
that we have yet understood
-Deepak Chopra
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Quote of the Day...
Monday, February 11, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
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
Friday, February 1, 2008
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.
<><
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.
<><
Thursday, January 3, 2008
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.
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