Depending on Love

A palm tree graces the sky and reminds me of the land of Christ's birth.

"Everything depends on how we love each other." ~ Mother Theresa,  from Thirsting for God



In pondering this astute observation from Mother Theresa, I find it incredible and awesome while also intimidating.

Think about it:
Everything....there is nothing that is not included in this
Depends.....something that is contingent on 
How we love each other..how we treat one another, how we act towards those among us who are less than lovable, all the people with whom we come into contact with on a regular basis. In St. Mother Theresa's world that would be those "poorest of the poor," to whom she and her Missionaries of Charity ministered to where ever they could be found.

To me, it means primarily my family...spouse, children, grandchildren, in-laws, friends and co-workers. I rarely have to deal with someone who could be considered "unlovable," although there are people with whom I often grow angry.

Still, the words "Everything depends on..." brings to mind how the problems facing our world might be solved....by "loving each other."
Quite a different outlook than that of our elected civic leaders and unfortunately, also by many church leaders. Still, it is an approach advocated by many in Christian ministries and for that I am thankful and also optimistic.
If I can start by loving those whom I find disagreeable or unlovable...then maybe that will inspire those whom I love to love the folks they find unlovable and it just keeps growing and getting better until one day it will be accomplished.

Thank you, my Lord and my God, Holy Trinity, and Blessed Mother for the gift of love you gave us this Christmas. Please help me to begin acting as if "Everything Depends on How we love each other."

Sunday Gift, March 20

Items God gifted to me today

Oh my Lord. I thank you so much for everything that you have given to me. Especially the gift of these items as we were out walking today.
This photo does not even show the fullness of your gift to me as I found two more antlers as I continued on the way. I will make a better display and photograph it as my return gift to you.
As I was walking, I was concerned about a number of things...mostly that I might be wrong in my interpretation of recent events and my FB posting on the subject. I do not wish to seem arrogant in knowledge, nor do I wish to allow falsehoods to go unremarked upon. So, I was concerned until I started receiving all the gifts you were giving me. You are always so very generous and I trust that you will allow me to speak only truth when I write or blog. I ask that you humble me gently if I need humbling, and I know that I do need humbling. But, I took your gifts as a sign that Your favor rests with me in my basic inclinations.
I do trust in you, my Lord and God and also my Mother, Holy Spirit and all the angels and saints with whom I have established a friendship. I trust that all of you will guide me to the Father and allow me to only do His will.
Forgive me my failures this day, dear Lord and guide me toward an ever deepening love of you and all that must come to be. I do consecrate myself this day to the loving Immaculate Heart of Mary and to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and I ask to always be a part of those beautiful places.
I know I have many failings and even though I try, I still fall short on the offerings I am trying to give You this Lent.
Thank you, Lord.
Don't be afraid, my child, to embrace the cross. It is also a gift to you, though you may not see the wonder of it until you are down the road. Nevertheless, the cross is a gift and has always been a gift. To allow you to share in it means that you will also receive the gift of the resurrection and that is a might gift. You also want to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit and you will find much joy in all that transpires. Do not fear. All is well.