On the Cusp of a New Year, Dec. 31

"The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave the power to become the children of God" Jn 1:14a, 12a

A nice buck deer on my walking route

 Here it is, Lord, the end of the year. I have failed so often to live up to my expectations and I hope that you will forgive me for my failures. Please inspire me to greater accomplishments for your Glory. Help me to become a better person and a more obedient servant.
Guide me each day.
I give you thanks and praise for all the favors you have bestowed on me. Your goodness has preserved me until now. I offer you all my thoughts, all my words, all my actions, together will all the trials I may undergo today. Please animate them with your Divine Love that they might serve your greater glory. I make this morning offering in union with the Divine Intentions of our Lord Jesus Christ who offers himself daily in the sacrifice of the Mass and in union with Mary, his virgin Mother and our Mother. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord.

That is such a wonderful prayer, Lord. It's one I learned many years ago and I truly delight to give you each day. Sometimes I forget or do not take the time, and on those days, I generally suffer from the lack of preparation for our day's work. Give me work this day to do for you, My Lord and My King. 
Help me to do your will not only today but each day of the new year.

My Child,
Leave all your failures of the past year on the doorstep of the New Year. Do not carry the weight of those failures with you into the new year, but leave them with me, confident that I have dealt with each one of them. I have forgiven you for the failures and granted you the grace to carry on, despite the failure to do My Will always in all things. I love that you are inspired to do this and will grant you ever more and more grace to achieve your heart's desire. I am your heart's desire and I am delighted that you are pleased to recognize this, after many years of looking elsewhere for it. Go in peace, knowing that I love you and care for you. You are precious to me.
 

Last Day of Advent, 2010

Small cabin in wintry forest

"Salvation has to do with life overcoming death. It is a full life, not just cringing existence scrabbling bleakly among the rubble of fear and guilt.

This life is marked by freedom from enemies like bitterness, resentment, and past hurts. It is a life free from self love and self-centeredness. All this is yours because in his compassion, God has made his light to shine on you. And that is the light of Christ, who was born on Christmas Day."--The Word Among Us, Dec. 24 reflections

This is such a perfect answer to my woes of yesterday. I was being so selfish and self-centered, taking hurt where none was intended.
After I thought about it for awhile and went out and saw some people, I did email my son and tell him how wonderful I thought it that he had been blessed with so many generous and thoughtful gifts. It was kind of interesting because when I was out, I immediately began to feel better. I saw so many people and tried to smile and give them love in my heart, even though I didn't say it out loud. I did wish as many as possible a "Merry Christmas." So when I got back, I emailed my son and it was one-half snarky and one-half sincere. But at some point, the Lord took the snarkiness away and made it sincere.
It was as if He told me, "This is the best they can do." And I felt my bitterness and resentment just melt away. Thank you, Lord. That was a wonderful Christmas blessing. I eagerly await your coming.
Forgive my selfishness of yesterday and please pour out your many blessings on my son and his family; on all my kids and their families. Cleanse my heart of anything not pleasing to you so that it will be a fit dwelling place for You. Thank you, Lord.

Child,

You are overcoming those tendencies in you to take hurt or resentment or bitterness and let it ruin a very special time. Do away with all hurt in this matter. I love you beyond belief and will continue to love you. Open your heart to receive my many blessings and you will not be put to shame. You are precious to me and I love you very much. Pause today to remember my Coming.

Gifts for the Lord, Advent, 2010

Inside looking out at the snow

Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.--The responsorial Psalm from Today's readings

Last night I was upset because of the "lack of quality gifts" that we received from one of my sons. It's a very unChrist-like response to this season of loving and giving, I know.
For some reason, this son and his family always seem to take but never to give...at least as generously as I think they should. So when I received the package of small gifts from his family, I was upset. They spend a lot of money on themselves and on their wants, but never seem to have any left over to share with their parents or siblings on my son's side of the family. I suspect the gifts given to his wife's side of the family are much better. So, I am feeling like not a lot of preparation went into their gift giving for our family.
It's not all about the gifts, I know that, and I was having so much trouble with this.I guess I still am having trouble with this, even though in the depths of my angst over this, the Lord gave me a very eye-opening and humbling view of my own paltry gifts to the Christ child.

At the beginning of Advent, I had told the Lord that I would make an effort to write daily, spending time in reflection and preparation of His coming. Well, I have obviously failed spectacularly at this and so my own gift to the Lord is as paltry and skimpy as the gifts given to us by our son and his family. There is a wonderful lesson in there for me, I know. I want to have the generosity of heart to accept the spirit of the gifts given by my son's family. The problem is that I don't think there was much spirit in it at all. I can say the same of my gift to the Lord, however. I am hoping against hope that the paltry offering I have for Him will somehow be transformed by Love into something wondrous and grand for Him, but before that can happen I need to find the gift of the spirit in my reaction to the gifts given by my son's family.
Yesterday, as I sat with my prayer partner in the church, I saw the Lord "scrubbing clean the dark places of my heart and soul in preparation for the coming of the Lord." That was before I opened the box of gifts from my son. Now I feel like I need another scrubbing.
Lord God, my King and my Savior, please forgive me these selfish feelings and bring me to the place where you want me to be...unselfish and giving and totally appreciative of all that You have done for us in sending Your beloved Son into the world that we might have life and have it to the full.
Lord, I just about blew it and sent my son a nasty email. Your angel stayed my hand, however, and encouraged me to send a more positive message instead. Thank you for that.
Also, please accept my paltry gift and grant me the grace to strive to give you my time in writing and reflection each day of the coming Christmas season, for starters. I'll try to make it better.
Lord, I do love you. Help me to love you more and more...as much as you love me. Also, please bless my son and his family with the true spirit of Christmas.

Sweet Child,

We do love you so very much. That is one reason why we showed you how your gifts stacked up in comparison to your son's gifts. It is the spirit of giving that matters...not what is given. You did not have the right spirit until you sent the P.S. to your son. We will use that simple message to bless you and your son and his family with such love that your heart will be scrubbed clean and you will receive the Lord in your heart this Christmas. Go in peace, my love, and continue your preparations for Christmas. We love you.

The Power of Love, Advent 2010

Rouse your power

And come to save us--Psalm 80:3

"It is Advent. He is coming, and we must be on the watch, learning anew how to use the power at the heart of the universe, the power of love. It is within us, awaiting to be roused." Fr. James Stephen Behrens, O.C.S.O.

Cabin hidden by snow covered trees

Yesterday I felt very strongly the power of love when I was so very disappointed in a friend. She had lied to me about something and I was hurt and angry and wrote an email expressing those feelings. Then the Lord took over and softened the blows I intended to strike against her, advising me to change a word here and there to make it more loving, less judgmental.
It was a very strong feeling. I heard His Voice recommending the changes in the letter, asking me to reflect His Love for her in the email.
I am easily hurt and tend to play the martyr when the occasion suits me and I have no doubt that I was doing the same when I initially wrote out my feelings. But then I asked the Lord for His input, asking him to help guide me in what I actually sent to my friend, making sure that His will was being done.
My friend had tried calling me several times and I let the answering machine take over. This is before she read the email and I think that she felt guilty about the lie before I even addressed it. She was almost desperate to contact me. I sent the email and then later returned her call, leaving a message because she was out.
When she did call back, she had not yet read my email or gotten my message...she was just trying again to establish contact with me. At first I wanted to be snotty towards her for payback to the way she had hurt me. But the Lord took over again and allowed me to be quiet. When my friend asked if I was angry, I told her I had sent an email laying out my thoughts and suggested she read it before we continue our conversation.
So she did and when she called me back she was contrite. Until she read my email she did not know that I knew she lied to me. I was at work when she called back, however, and couldn't talk.
So, we are going to get together today. I again pray for God's love to be in, with and through me as we discuss our friendship.

Bare teepee poles

This friend is a friend in Christ and He is the glue that holds our friendship together. If He is taken out of it, as she tried to do...ignoring Him and choosing the world instead of Him for a function we had planned to attend together, then there is probably no friendship. We have little in common but for Christ who makes us One in His love.

Lord, please guide me in my words and actions this day. Please let Your will be done in, with and through Christ.

Child,

I love you so very much. Rest in my love, ever confident that I will give you the words you need and the words your friend, our beloved friend, needs to hear. Do not hold self-pity or resentment or hurt in your heart. I have healed you. Go forth now to love your way though this day and know that I am with you, guiding and guarding your every step. Let's truly unleash the power of love in your life by loving our friend as truly as I love you.

Thank you Lord.

A December Ride-About, Dec. 7, 2010

Today my husband and I took a Ride-About...something similar to a walk about, but its done in a pick up truck. We had a glorious day for our adventure and the first thing we spotted along the way was a group of antelope.

A herd of antelope were watching us, wary but not too spooked.

We continued along the way, taking this two track road or that two track road, but looking for the main road because the two tracks were not headed in the direction hubby wanted to travel. Nor me, once I realized that I was the official gate opener. But, eventually we came to a power line, which has a road running along side it and it took us to the road on which we wanted to be.
As we were traveling along, I asked my dear husband to stop so I could practice my photography skills and he was very generous in this regard, He stopped whenever I asked so I could snap photos of whatever intrigued me.
The first of my photos was taken of antelope. Those magnificent creatures that can run at 60 mph for a good while.

The sun, snow and color of the rock caught my eye.

The next thing of interest we came upon was this incredible rock formation. I think the brightly shining sun and the snow both contributed in making this rock formation an interesting photo.

Two cow elk and a calf crossing over a ridge

A herd of elk with interstate traffic and mountains in the background

So, on we went and we were treated to a wonderful view scape all day long. It was a delightful day...hardly any wind and the temperature was in the low 40s, so it was comfortable. We saw probably about 200 elk. Most of them were too far away to catch with my camera, but I did manage to get a few photos. Here's one of three elk just about to cross over the top of a ridge. They were definitely spooky. All of the elk we saw today were keeping a wary eye towards us...they evidently knew where the roads were and just how close we should get to them before they bolted. There's a late hunting season still on-going in this area.

On we went, driving up roads we knew would dead-end at the ridge line, but taking the road just to see what hidden treasures might be found. Amazingly, we saw no rabbits or coyotes out today and both of us thought we should have seen plenty of both those species, but no luck.

A golden eagle on the hunt

As we passed under another rock formation, we saw these two golden eagles come swooping in and are they incredible birds.
Come to think of it, maybe that's why there were no rabbits out. Ha.

On one of the roads we traveled up, we did manage to get over the top of the ridge line...just to get stuck in a huge snowdrift at the top. Hubby spent some time shoveling us out and I took photos of another group of elk. In this photo, you can see the interstate in the distance with trucks traveling along the route. In the distance, a range of mountains.

This eagle soared above me showing off his beautiful markings.

After getting us unstuck, we turned around and came back the way we came in, although hubby told me that if I wasn't there, he would have tried making it through the drift and continuing on along the way we were headed. He deferred to my strong desire not to have to walk anywhere, an event that has happened more than once since we've been married. It was a wise decision. We managed to get back through the snowdrift, albeit with chains on the front wheels and got back to the main road. We could have spent a lot more time traveling up different little two track roads but these roads had been frozen when we came in and as we headed back, it was apparent that they were turning rapidly into a muddy mess, so we opted for home.

It was a fantastic day spent with my husband, just traveling around the country side on a sunny winter Advent day. I thank God for such an opportunity to share in this magnificent creation with which He has blessed us.
What a wonderful Advent blessing you bestowed on me today, Lord. How can I repay you for all your goodness to me? How is it even possible to repay One who can create such beauty and magnificence? 
My child,

 Share what you know of me..yes. Take photos and tell the stories of my blessings. I long to shower such blessings on all humankind. Tell them to pause and enjoy such beauty. My blessings are there for all and I yearn for each soul. Praise me and share my love with all.

The Father's Generosity, Advent weekday, Friday, Dec. 3

Thank you, Lord, for the generosity this day of the bidders in the auction. My husband's donation brought in $875 and he was pleased. Overall, the donations of many people and organizations raised over $9,000 in donations.
Lord, this Advent day, I thank you for the gift of your Son. If we are generous, it is because we learned it from you, our generous Father, who went so far as to give him most precious and holy son, Jesus Christ. As we were talking tonight during the auction, I realized that there were some things I would with hold from auction because those things are precious to me. Yet, you did not with hold the most precious thing,,,your son. Help me to be as generous and loving as you, Lord, my God.
And please forgive me if I have hurt anyone by my opinionated self. Let me fix that Lord and come to know how to deal with disagreements in philosophy without hurting anyone.
Let me also be fearless as the two beggars in today's Gospel were fearless, following behind you, asking to be cured, regardless of what anyone thought or even of reprisals from you. Let me be as fearless in proclaiming your love as they were.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus on our parish grounds

Sweet Child of Mine,

I love you! I love YOU!! I am the Lord and God of the Universe and I LOVE YOU! Do not fear anything. You are my precious concern. All is well.

Advent Wreath

This advent wreath is from the web blog of  Curt Jester.

Take Refuge in the Lord: Advent, Dec. 2, 2010

Snowfall in Winter

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,

for his mercy endures forever.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord

than to trust in man.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord 

than to trust in princes. -- from Psalm 118

Lord, I am trying to prepare for your coming but as usual, I don't seem to be making much progress. I am trying to focus on doing as you asked earlier and take you with me each day. i am also trying to remember to spend some time with you each morning before I go about my daily chores, and light my advent wreath to remind me of the season.
Please help me with my preparations so that you might feel welcome, in my home and in my heart when you come. Lord, I want to love you as much as you love me. Please show me how. Please teach me obedience and discipline. Help me to always focus on you.
Please forgive me for my past lapses and trespasses against those I love and those I do not love so much. Help me to see all as your children and to treat them as I would treat you.
Lord, like Mary, I give you my Yes! Yes! Yes!


Sweet Child of Mine,
I do love you so very much. Do not feat to love. Do not fear to do what I may ask of you. I am with you and I will give you whatever you need to gtet it done. Go forth bravely and rejoice for I am coming!

St. Andrew, Advent 2010, day 3

"Brothers and Sisters: If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10: 9,10

Shelter on the Island

Good Evening my Lord and my Savior,
I give you thanks and praise for all the blessings poured out on me this day. I especially thank you for St. Andrew, one of the Apostles who passed the Word down about Jesus. Because St. Andrew passed down his knowledge of You, I am able to be saved. St. Andrew also was the person who brought his brother, Simon Peter to You and saved him.
So thank you for the blessing of St. Andrew and all he did to share in Your Life and Glory.
Thank you  also for the blessing of catching the break in the water line before damage was done. As it was, we had a mess to clean up, but no real damage. Thank you, Lord for that.
It seems, Lord, that I accomplish so little these days. I want all my work to be done for you and I want to do great things for you, but I seem to barely get through my daily chores. How am I able to accomplish great things for you when I am just barely able to get through doing the things you have given me to do in my daily life? How can I do more for you?

My Child,
It is not great things I want done for me, it is your everyday things that I want done in, with and through me. I so cherished the small things in life when I lived on earth. Take joy in each thing you do and give it to me to be blessed in some way for someone and you are doing "great" things for me. You should read St. Therese's "Little Way" book someday. She loved me in all the little ways of her life and accomplished great things. So stop focusing on doing great things and take joy in doing the little things for me. You are precious to me and your everyday life is precious to me. Use it for me as I instruct you and let me deal with how "great" it is.  

Preparing for the Lord, Day 2 of Advent 2010

Snow covered hills

"Lord our God, help us to prepare for the coming of Christ your son."  --from the opening prayer for today's Mass

I struggled today about saying "yes" to the Lord when he asked me to wake from my slumber and write. I do not know why...I do love the Lord with all my heart and soul and mind.
But an examination of my conscience tells me that while I profess to love him so, my actions and deeds speak of another love...self love and doing what I want to do, not what the Lord wants me to do.
Yet, how can I do this? How can I not want to love the Lord with my whole being...He who has given me everything and loves me so very much that He has taken my sins upon himself? 
I long to be more like Mary, who immediately answered yes to her Lord, in the face of not knowing how His will would be accomplished or where His will would take her...she still answered yes. Inconvenience? It didn't matter as much as doing her Lord's will. What a remarkable woman Mary was then and remains to this day.

"Am I loving and serving God with my whole heart , mind and strength? Where can I do better? Am I waiting and watching for the Lord through daily prayer?" 

Am I watching and waiting for the Lord through daily prayer? Sadly, no. My prayer life lately has been short and a series of orders I seem to give our Lord. Can you imagine the hubris of such an action? Why would I do such a thing? I have really gotten away from my prayer habits. It seemed to be so rote and without sincerity of late...although that is not the Lord's fault, but my own. How can I make it more meaningful? By simply sitting in the Lord's presence for a time and soaking in his loving care of me! What a beautiful way to prepare for his Coming.

Lord, please help me to better love you with all my strength and to rejoice in my daily preparations for your Coming amongst us. Help me to truly show my love for you by better obedience to your commands, by not choosing to "do it later" a bad habit that I have developed lately.

Lord, I do love you. Help me to know how to live in that love on a daily basis.

My Child,

Long have I waited  for your coming unto Me, in simplicity and sincerity as you have done this day...after I prodded you. You can be so much and do so much in, with and through me. Try to be more like Mary, my Mother and your Mother, who didn't worry about the details of saying Yes. She knew the details would be handled by Me, if she chose to accept the role I gave her. So must you learn that the details are not for you to work out...I have already worked them out. You must prepare your Heart,  first of all, to receive me fully. Then you will have no more concern about how the details will be worked out. Sweet one, I love you and do have a plan for you...believe it and rejoice in it. It is a most wonderful Christmas gift. Prepare your Heart.

 

Advent, 2010

A new beginning. That is what this Advent brings this year. A year of new hopes and new struggles, but hope filled as I continue my journey towards the Lord.
I am grateful for the blessings of this past year and hope to make progress, sadly lacking in so many areas of my life. But, with the dawn of a new Christian year and a new time of beginning, I hope to overcome the faults within myself and strive ever more to become the person God would have me be.
Thank you, Lord for the opportunities you have given me to serve you. Please continue to bless my efforts with your love, forgiveness and guidance as we go forth into this new year.

Santa Claus verus St. Nicholas

The Feast of St. Nicholas

Today is the feast of St. Nicholas and Father did a lovely job of sharing the life of St. Nicholas--a bishop who was extremely generous with his personal wealth.
St. Nicholas could not stand the idea that a man was going to sell his daughters into prostitution because he lacked a dowry for them, so in the middle of the night he delivered bags of gold to the father of the daughters (three in all) which served as their dowry. This is where the idea of Santa coming at night comes from, but it is not all there was to St. Nicholas.
But his point was more that today's version of St. Nicholas--Santa Clause--is about material things and not about generosity or sharing a love of Jesus Christ, as is the case of St. Nicholas.
Also, there is the truth that St. Nicholas was a real person who lived and breathed while Santa Clause is a fiction, comprised of many traditions.
As we prepare for Christmas, I hope I can remember that the most important thing I can share with people is my love of Christ and not some present I purchase for them, especially the young children who are so materialistic in their wants.

Lord,
Help me this day to focus on my Advent goals and to do your will throughout the day. Help me to be generous with what you have given me and also to share my love of you with all. Thank you for your many blessings.

My sweet child,
I love you mightily and guide you each day. I know you do not complete the work I have given you each day, but as you strengthen your willpower to do my will, you will accomplish more each day. Keep working on the lists you have comprised for Advent, doing daily a task that we agreed to when you made the list.
Do not fret about the person who seems so resentful of you. Pray for this person even more and keep on praying for all of the people in his life. Be generous in your spiritual prayers for this person and rejoice because I have given you the power to love in spite of hatred consuming the world. All is well. Let's do some Advent preparation now and have fun with it. You are precious to me. Never doubt it.

Opposing Viewpoints

Looking South From Cedar Breaks

It has been so wonderful these past few days to see my prayers so wonderfully answered.
While the two big requests I have made on this blog are still in the works, I have seen answers to other prayers that have been uttered for my family and friends.
Thank you so much, my dear Lord, for the answers to those prayers. You have re-affirmed to me the value of using your name in my prayer requests.
I have been reading blog postings and other news sites--probably too much--and I am thoroughly amazed at how differently people view the world.
There is definitely a left-right viewpoint chasm that is utterly astounding to me.
An event can take place and both sides view it so completely different that you would think they are viewing a different event.
This "war" between President Obama and Fox News is one example. Fox News doesn't fall into lockstep with everything the President puts out there and so they are "picking on him" and giving him unfair coverage. Lefty bloggers applaud the decision to try to alienate Fox (even though it is a definite attack on Freedom of the Press) without seeing that other networks simply swallow the administration's explanation for all of the various things that Fox considers worth questioning.
For a long time, I thought that if we could just explain to them the viewpoint from the right, they might have their eyes opened. But that is not the case. They truly believe everything that the left news networks put out there and consider that anything not appearing on those networks is simply not worth reporting on. Examples are the Van Jones resignation and the ACORN scandal.
But they don't. They vehemently claim that Fox news is "lying" and "making stories up".
Meanwhile, Obama and his Chicago thugs go on with their plans to destroy the American way of life.
What is happening here, Lord? How can there be such disparate views of the same event? Who is lying and who is reporting things accurately? My inclinations are to trust Fox News but it is possible I am the one being duped as are many on the right.
But then, I also look at other parts of the left wing agenda...abortion on demand, the acceptability of homosexual relations, etc. and think that I am not the one being duped here. Please guide me in my thoughts and actions to know what is your Truth and what you want me to do about this. I spend a lot of time reading about it, so I should do something with all this knowledge, shouldn't I?
My sweet child--
I know you are concerned about these issues. The resolution of these issues is yet to be determined but you can play a part in the outcome. I long ago began letting people who were bent on their own destruction have their way. I destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because of sins but I also have given people free will. Their choice in these matters...to deliberately choose to believe those things which go against the Word of God...is their choice, their free will. We cannot force them into believing in my goodness and care for them. But when people try to force others into something against Me and my Will, then you know you have the full Power of God at your disposal. You cannot force them to believe in me, but they cannot force you to do or say things you know to be wrong. It's complicated, my child. It is the reason why so many people question My existence and why a good God would allow so much evil to exist. But we must allow them their free will even as we pray for their eyes to be opened. You know now what Jesus was talking about when He marveled that I had hidden things from the learned and revealed them to the childlike.
The people who believe in their own superiority and knowledge have been blinded while I am revealing my will to open hearts and minds. Of course they will attack you and anyone who believes as you do and tries to expose their hidden agendas. Do not fear. They cannot harm you and your way of life, as you put it, is hidden with me. You are a child of my kingdom and that is how you must think. Pray still for an end to abortion and other issues that I inspire you to pray about. All is well. I am the God of the Universe and I have things under control, even if you cannot as yet see it.
Thank you, my God. I again ask in the name of Jesus that you arrange to have the charges of trespassing dropped against those protesters of abortion at Notre Dame. I also ask in the name of Jesus that only your will in the proposed health care legislation be actually passed. I thank you Lord. I also ask in the name of Jesus that the eyes of many will be opened regarding President Obama and his administration because of this "hit" he has put on Fox News. I thank you Lord. Amen.

A Conduit for Power

Fall Foliage on one of my favorite Walks

I am not ashamed of the Gospel. It is the power of God. (Romans 1:16)

Good Morning my Lord--
I thank you so much for this day you have given me. Help me to know and do your will as I go through the day. I am so much in love with you, my Lord and God. You have given me the best gift of all--that of having my heart burn with love for you.
In meditating on today's scripture reading from Romans, I realize that you have called me to be a conduit of your power. It is much the same as an electrical wire bringing power into my home...merely some way for the power to be put to practical use. And that is what you have called me to be--a way for your power to be put to good and practical use.
Although, I must admit, you take a greater chance with me than with an electrical wire...I have the uncanny ability to mess up--not obey you right away or ignore you when you ask me to do something.
Forgive me for those times, my Lord. And thank you so much for this opportunity to put your power to good use. Let me take no pride in it..after all I am merely the conduit, not the power. But I do thrill at the thought of being such a conduit and working your will in my little corner of your world.
God, Almighty Father,
Today I ask that the current "health insurance reform" legislation making its way through our Congress be done in accordance with your will or not at all. Lord, it seems there are so many things wrong with these bills, including funding abortions and creating the opportunity for small minded bureaucrats to push senior citizens and others who may not be "perfect" into a choice of death. Therefore, dear God, in the name of Jesus Christ, your son and my savior, I ask that you stop this legislation if it does not follow your will or that it is properly amended to take out any portions that are offensive to you. Thank you, my God. Amen.
My sweet child--
You are learning to use the power of my name and I thank you for it. I know that you are fearful of asking too much or things that are too big. Fear not, you are being guided by my Spirit and you are listening to me as we begin each day. There is much to accomplish in this world and I need simple conduits for my power. Where they are is of no importance...only that they do what I ask. You are precious to me and I love you so much. There is nothing for you to fear...I will be with you in all things.

The Name of Christ

Wood Duck Mingling with Mallards

For the past couple of nights, I have had the strange experience of being awake, yet in a dream-like state where I find myself in a situation that could be terrifying.
In both "dreams" I have been on an airplane when terrorists attempt to take over the flight.
Instead of that happening, however, I stand up and invoke the Name of Jesus Christ, commanding the terrorists to put down their weapons and hostages.
They obey, simply because they must obey any commands issued "in the name of Jesus Christ."
And the plane continues on its journey with the terrorists now bound and awaiting arrest at the landing airport. At all times, I am calm and even joyful..never afraid.
So, the question has become...why do I not use "the name of Jesus Christ" more prayerfully and more powerfully? There is no reason for not using it...it was given to all who claim to be followers.
Jesus told the apostles at the Last Supper that "anything you ask the Father in my name, He will do" and most prayers are offered "in the name of Jesus." Yet for me, this has become rote and not a powerful answer to my problems.
I find I must begin using the name of Jesus more and with specific requests so that I can know the prayer has worked.
It sounds all rather clinical and like I am testing the Lord. I do not mean it to sound thus, it's just that it's such an eye-opener for me, that I have had the power to effect change in circumstances and have not used it effectively. I guess, the test is more a test of me and my faith than it is of the Lord or his promises.
So, today I begin with my prayer requests.
Dear Father, I give you thanks and praise for all the blessings you have bestowed upon me. I know I have failed to do your will and for this I seek your forgiveness and mercy. I may be dreaming but I am so excited to learn I do have power and it is in the power of the name of Jesus Christ that I can effect change in circumstances. So, today I begin. Father, I ask in the name of Jesus Christ, your only Son and my Savior, that charges of trespassing be dropped against the people who were arrested at Notre Dame University in protest of President Obama's stand on abortion. I thank you Father, for this solution to only one of the problems of the world and I hope that as I get better at using this tool you have given to all your children that I may become wiser and wiser in its use. I know, dear Lord, that you would not have us become tempted to abuse this wonderful gift, so I need all the wisdom you can provide as I seek to do your will. I thank you Father, in the name of Jesus, and I am so looking forward to taking this journey with you. Amen.
My sweet one, You are indeed precious to me. I know you long to help me save my world and that you have been seeking some way in which to become effective. I have given this gift to all my children and "in the name of Jesus" is used many times throughout the day and night as my children seek answers to their prayers. For many, as for you up until your 'dreams' the phrase has become rote and just a phrase to end a prayer. They say it without expecting that their prayers will be answered, they say it without having the faith that what they ask for will be given by me. So, yes, I am giving you a new perspective on it, a new lens in which to view your prayer requests. I am somewhat amused by your "testing" and have also given you the knowledge that it is yourself you are testing and not me. My sweet child. Your prayer has been answered. All is well. I am delighted you have begun posting again. We will make a formidable team. Go in peace. I love you.

The good and kind among us

Random Thoughts
Several years ago I was walking in a favorite spot when I looked up and there was this young moose standing right on the pathway. I snapped a couple of photos but decided not to try to continue along the same path. I'm sure I would have come up short in any contest over who had the right of way on the path!
It is always delightful to see wildlife, though, and I truly am grateful and thankful that the Lord has put me where he has.
I sometimes wonder what my mission is but I delight in being able to take a walk and see a moose in the wild. How awesome is that?
On Tuesday, the funeral of a very kind and generous man was held here. The church was packed to overflowing and nearly everyone could tell a story of his generosity. He was a very wealthy person and could have chosen to live anywhere, but he chose to live here. I think it must have been for similar reasons as I am thankful to live here.
When I think of his honesty and goodness and then look around at all the corruption and greed in this country, particularly in our "leaders" I am appalled at such a disconnect. These people who we entrust to make decisions for all of us are corrupt and greedy and not the same type of people as my friend.
Things seem to be happening very quickly now as far as the end times signs go. With each passing news cycle, I am surprised that the warning sign doesn't appear in the sky tomorrow. I still have much to do to prepare, though, and will strive to do better.
Oh my Lord and my God--help me to prepare for what is coming and to not waver in doing your will. You are precious to me and I want to please you and do what you would have me do.
I know I say that and then don't do it. Please help me to overcome this fault and to be instantly obedient. I love you and delight in all your goodness and kindness. I thank you for people like Tom who are good and generous and I pray that he is in heaven with you and his loved ones.

My sweet one--You are forgiven for your failures of the past and for your failures of this day. Do not seek to carry them into the new day. You have given them to me and must now rest assured that you may go forth into the new day without the burdens of past sins and failings.

Continue to strive to do my will and to do the things you think I am calling you to do. If you think I am calling you, then I probably am. Once you give me your life, as you do daily, then do not doubt where the guidance comes. Know that I will guard you against anything not according to my will. Be at peace and try to do better tomorrow. Know that I love you.

Fast Moving Waters

Fast Moving Water
This photo was taken several years ago in May and the water in this creek was moving fast!! This year is shaping up to be a fast moving water year, too. We are having a very wet spring with rain and rain/snow and then more rain. We can always use the water in this arid part of the world, so we are not to complain about it but it does get to be a drag. I wonder if the flood waters are about to over take us. Thank you anyway Lord, for the gray days and rain.
I thank you so much for all the blessings you bestow on me daily. I thank you for giving me the words to address those people and concerns I feel compelled to write about. I thank you for giving me the Truth and for being able to share it with others.
Lord, I am so worried about the state of this world. The level of immorality continues to climb. Things that have been forbidden by you are now commonplace and we are expected to be "tolerant" of all things and viewpoints.
I have been reading much about the end of times and I believe it is almost upon us. We are to experience a warning, then chastisement--three days of darkness. At least those are the prophesies I have been reading and much death and destruction.
We are preparing for the worst and trust that you will guide us in our actions and deeds to do your will in this matter.
My dearest--
You must do as I command you. Please do not delay in getting those things done that I set upon your mind and heart. It is important that these things be caught up and you will thank me for this in the very near future. Do not be afraid...just go forth into each day and do as I command you. I will remind you of all you need to do on a daily basis, but you must strive to do those things and accomplish my will for you. I love you and the accomplishment of my will is something that will truly delight and inspire you. There is nothing to fear in doing my will. Know that I take very good care of my servants. Be at peace. I love you.

St. Joseph the Worker--May 1

Feast Day Thoughts

Today is the feast day of St. Joseph the Worker and as St. Joseph is one of my favorite Saints and patron of my diocese, I wish to offer some thoughts on this remarkable man.

Was Joseph young or was he old? From what I have read, there is no clear answer to this question. Early church writings seem to indicate that he was an elderly man who had been married prior to being betrothed to Mary and had children from his first marriage. These are the "brothers and sisters" referred to in Mark's Gospel, according to some. Others claim that Jesus' "brothers and sisters" were cousins.
Then later...around the 14th century, advocates of Joseph, husband of Mary, started to depict Joseph as a younger man.

Personally, I don't know if it matters to me.

What is important to me about St. Joseph is his loving care of Mary and Jesus. Not only did he buck the unspoken rule of the day regarding taking a pregnant woman as his wife (when he knew he was not the father of the child), he also adopted the child as his own and loved him dearly.
Of course, divine intervention did come into play and helped St. Joseph in his decision making. In a dream he was told not to fear taking the woman Mary as his wife and that the child would be the son of the Most High. He named the child as commanded by the angel giving him the dream--a matter of faith and obedience. Later, obeying another dream, he fled Herod's persecution with his wife and newborn into Egypt where they lived as, presumably, "illegal aliens" until Joseph had another dream and returned with his family to Nazareth when Herod had died.

So much of the young life of Jesus and also of Joseph is not recorded. Because there exists only the story about losing Jesus in the temple in Jerusalem when Jesus was 12, we can speculate that life was very ordinary for Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Joseph provided for his family as a carpenter, teaching Jesus his trade as was the custom. Whether the children listed in Mark were Joseph's from a previous marriage or his cousins, it seems clear that Jesus was surrounded by a large family. The Gospels do not mention Joseph again after the finding of Jesus in the temple at age 12 and it is presumed that he died before Jesus began his public ministry.

Joseph was chosen by God to be the foster father of God's son. What an honor! We often honor Mary--rightfully so--as being chosen by God but forget that Joseph was chosen, too. If you could not raise your only son, who would you choose to do it for you? I think it speaks highly of Joseph.

St. Joseph has always been a comfort to me and I often seek his friendship and guidance when in need.
I thank you, Abba, for choosing Joseph for Jesus and Mary and also for all of us.

Spring Snow

Spring Snowstorm

We got an amazing snowstorm last night---one of those heavy wet storms that covered the ground like a dollop of marshmellow creme.

Of course, it melted off fairly fast and soaked into the parched ground, so it was truly a blessing!

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of spring snows and sunshine.

Ash Wednesday, 2009

Lent Begins
Today is Ash Wednesday and it is a day devoted to fasting and abstinence from meat. The focus of my parish priest's homily was fasting and I realized that I do not know how to fast.
My country and my culture are so driven by instantaneous gratification that we have no real concept of fasting.
Many people in many countries practice fasting, as Father explained tonight. And coupled with prayer, it becomes a powerful tool for drawing nearer to You, my God and my Friend.
Even though traditional fasting is a fasting from food, Father laid out numerous other alternatives to fasting from food.
For many years I have tried to not watch television and have failed miserably. So when Father suggested fasting from television for one hour and spending that time in prayer or reading something of you, my heart leapt because I knew it was an answer to "how do I fast?"
I also know I need to give up sweets and to fast on each of the Wednesdays and Fridays of Lent. This time that I am spending with you now is something that I have tried to do for several years and it helps me to focus on you rather than on myself, so although it is not a fasting, it gives me courage to go on and I thank you for the grace to do so. I will also try to donate some food to the food bank each week.
I hope I am following your will for me, Lord, as I attempt this Lenten journey with you. We have journeyed together before during this season and for many of those journeys, I know I have disappointed you.
On one, however, I remember being filled with such joy on Easter after successfully completing my Lenten obligation to you. I wish to be filled again with such joy as was unimaginable to me prior to experiencing it. It was the words of the Psalm in today's Mass readings that filled me with joy because I recognized Your voice in them and knew those words were for me.
Please be with me as we take this journey, Lord, and please let me give to You what you require from me even as I ask you for much needed graces to complete the journey.

My Child--
It is so nice to hear from you again. It has been quite some time since you have taken the time to be with Me in this manner. I so delight in your obedience in coming to Me and listening to what I ask of you. I will give you all the graces you need to complete the journey. Indeed, those graces have always been given to you. You have not always used what has been given to you and have turned from Me then, in disappointment and guilt over your failures.
Do not fear and do not feel guilt. I have saved you from that burden and there is no need for you to pick it up again. It is your choice as to whether or not you will use the graces granted you for this journey. I hope you choose to use them so that we might share the journey. I so desire to share it with you and also to grant you the accompanying joy that will be yours upon completion of the journey. I delight to give you all good things. Be not afraid.
Go in peace. I love you.

Been a long time

It has been such a long time that I have been here. I know I need to develop better habits and do more writing. Thank you, my Lord, for all the favors you have bestowed on me. I worship you and give you thanks and praise.
Lord, forgive me for my failings and help me to do better, beginning now. I love you and desire to serve you will my every action.
My sweet one--
Know that I love you and want the very best for you. Do as I tell you each moment....each present moment and all will be well. Go in peace, my dear one. Know you are loved and cared for.

Behold! The Christ

Thank you, Father, for giving us such a wonderful gift--your Son. Thank you for all the blessings you have poured into my life. Thank you for this world and my place in it. I give you my all, dear Father, that you may use me as you will.
This morning as I was struggling to awaken from the night's sleep, I envisioned myself in my local church for Christmas Mass. As the priest was about to begin the homily, it seemed as if I floated right up to the alter and bowed low before the infant Christ child. Then Mary and Joseph were there and Mary offered to let me hold the newborn Lord.
What an honor it was to be able to sit there, holding our Lord while Mary and Joseph looked on and angels were singing. Everyone in the church beheld the newborn infant and many came forward to bow low before our God.
As I was sitting there, I stood and proclaimed to all who could hear, "Behold the Christ." It was an incredibly powerful half waking dream and I didn't want to get up or give the Child back to his Mother.
Thank you, my God for this vision. I pray that I may be courageous and bold enough to proclaim you at all times and in all events.
Thank you my sweet one for all the praise and worship you give me. Continue to worship and praise and be not afraid, for I am with you. I love you. Go in peace.

Winter arrives

Winter Arrives
Although this picture is from last winter, today's weather looks very similar. The temperature is below zero without the wind chill factor. With wind chill, it's probably -10 right now. The wind is making it bitterly cold, but it's winter and it's acting like a "normal" one again.
For so many years, we have had a drought and not much snow or cold, so it's nice to again have the snow and cold. The extreme cold does a number of things that, not surprisingly, are important to the ecosystem.
On to other things--Lord, two nights ago you roused me from my sleep to say my prayers and meditate on your coming. Before you completely rousted me out of bed, I had a half-waking vision of what it is you want to give me and it brought me such joy that I could not have stayed in bed if I wanted to. It was a delightful vision of the friend you wish me to have in you and to be to you and others. I arose with delight and joy to do as you asked me and said my prayers and was so anxious to start the day and do your will.
I did not interpret it correctly, however, and the way I expected the vision to be manifested did not happen, but the sense of joy I was left with did not diminish and I will truly be yours forever. I pray that I may someday fill you with such joy as you have allowed me to experience.
Thank you, my Lord and God for coming among us as a human and for showing us how life is supposed to be lived. Please bless me with what I need to do your will and to show my joy to others.
Dear sweet child--
Of course you bring me joy, especially when you arise from your warm bed to get up and pray because you hearing me ask it of you. I wish you would pay more attention to me so that you could be so obedient all the time. That is the gift I wish from you, a better and more perfect obedience. You will truly experience joy and delight at what happens when you are so obedient and I wish to give you that joy and delight in return. So, please try to pay more attention to my wishes throughout the day and to do as I ask you. Go in peace, my love.

Advent Joy

Looking East at the Sunset
We had been out riding our ATVs when we viewed this sunset...looking east. When we looked west, it was magnificent also, but I was struck by the resounding beauty of the sky in this picture, a muted reflection of the brighter sunset to the west.
Thank you, my Lord and God, for the beauty of this day and for all the days you have given me. I thank you for sending your son to save us from our sins and I eagerly await the day when He will come among us once again.
Lord, I am so sorry for my attitude of the past weekend. I once again slipped into such a mental state of anguish over past grievances. I felt once again vulnerable and abused. But, you, my Lord and God have saved me from those things and I am sorry to have fallen back into that trap so easily.
Lord, you take such wonderful care of me that I cannot thank you enough or praise you enough. You have been such a Savior to me and I am often so ungrateful for all you have done. Lord, I thank you and praise you for saving me once again. Help me to focus on you entirely and not to fall into the traps being set for me. I can see now how you were guiding me and how you allowed me to do as I thought I should. I thank you for the wording...it was perfect and I thank you for the circumstances where I could go in and do what I had said I would do. I thank you also for allowing me to know of the timing of the card sending. I sent it before the call but I don't know if my friend knows that.
Lord, I am not sure why it had to be resurrected at this point in time unless it was because it was something that was hurting me so badly I could not go forward until I got it out. And the reaction since that time has been as it has always been...a rejection of me and my gifts as if I were a leper.
Lord, I am so thankful not to have to do that again. I pray for the strength to leave it here, leave it alone and continue on my journey with you. Guide me, Lord and lead me where you would have me go.
Oh my dear one--
It was so precious to me to have you run to me as a small child, jumping into my arms for protection and solace. I love to have you with me in that regard. I love it when you are vulnerable and come to me for protection. I am delighted with the classy way that you have handled this whole thing. Do not fear what might be said of you...we know that the person to whom this is directed will speak ill of you. Do not fear what others to whom he speaks will think or say of you, for they are blinded by his accusations. Go forward, pouring your love and forgiveness into the situation, as I pour it into you. Yes, all the blessings for this person have been procured by your prayers for him. You indeed have been a true friend to him while he has not been a friend to you. Do not fear. Whatever friendship you need can be found in me. I am delighted that you now feel you can pass on the blessings and not anguish over what might have been. Trust me. You are where I would have you be and I look forward to guiding you to further adventures. You are mine and I will deal with any injustices against you. You go on loving and laughing and fear nothing or no one. I uphold you and defend you and cherish you. Go in peace, sweet one. I love you.

Suffering for Christ

Canadian Geese
I think we have a flock of resident geese here. These and more can be seen swimming in the river daily.

I have allowed myself once again to be taken in by a friend--well, I am a friend to this person but the gift of friendship isn't returned.
I feel like sobbing my heart out right now because I allowed myself to forgive the person for past hurts and thought we might move forward. But the friendship is one-sided and not appreciated, so I have to once again try to rid myself of all the doubts and anguishes caused by my desire for a friendship.
I apparently misunderstood your will in this matter, my God and King. I thought the impulse to send a birthday card to this friend was from you, especially when I received a call from the person asking me to do a favor.
Why did I let this happen again? How can I get over the urge to bawl my eyes out over this and most assuredly, how can I get past it again?
Can you help me out here, Lord? Please heal me once again from the hurts caused by this person and help me figure out how to move past it once and for all.
Oh dear child--
I love you beyond measure. I hurt with you in this matter. I know how you wanted to reach some type of reconciliation with the person or at least have this person recognize your friendship. It is a valuable gift, even if it goes unrecognized. Do not despair over this and do not let it set you back. You know I have given you a new mission and a new work. Focus on that and on me.
You sent a card that opened yourself up again, that allowed you to be vulnerable and you feel this gift was shunned. You do not know this. You think perhaps the person has been ridiculing you for your vulnerability. You do not know this, either.
All deeds done in love, as this deed was done, will not go unrewarded. Do not be afraid to open yourself up to the pains of loving and of friendship. People will disappoint you and this person has shown that he will disappoint you more than most. Keep on loving and keep on being a friend to these people. I stand at the door of their hearts knocking and I am so often shunned and hurt, as you were. Do not let it stop you. Give the matter to me and allow my loving power to serve as a balm for the hurts you suffer.

My God, I thank you for the peace you have rendered unto my soul over this matter. I now know why the timing of the whole thing happened as it did--it was a gift to me so that I would know. The favor was asked before the person knew I had sent a card, so it had nothing to do with what I said in the card. And the idea to send the card did come from you--as you told me it did when I sent it. Not for him, but for me, that I might put closure to the terrible pain I had suffered. All the rest of my silly imaginings are just that--my silly imaginings. I do thank you once again, though, that I am out of there. How much more I appreciate that this day than even when I asked for it last year. I love you and hope to become a powerful tool in your hand, to do good. I might sometimes get hurt, but I will trust you to take care of those hurts and not expect too much from anybody.
Dear sweet one--
When you suffer for those you love, you are taking up your cross and following me. I did ask you to send the card. You did as I asked and did so lovingly and prayerfully. If there is mocking and ridiculing because of this, I will deal with it. You have done as I asked you. The outcome is in my hands. If you must suffer ridicule and mocking for the sake of love and friendship or for me, am I asking too much of you?
Stand tall and go forward boldly. You follow a victorious Christ. There is nothing for you to fear. I am at your side and I do guide you and guard you. You are precious to me, little one. Be at peace. I love you.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

An Advent Sunset
The sunsets this time of year are phenomenal. It seems as if every time I look out the window there is another breathtaking example of God talking to me.
I actually took several shots of this earlier and the colors weren't so vivid. I couldn't believe it when I looked again and it was even more stunning than the earlier shots---which now seem rather unexceptional.
Thank you Lord, for sharing such beauty with me during this time of reduced sunlight and cold temperatures.
Last winter, it seems as if all my photos were of white as it snowed and snowed and snowed. This year, at least, I have had so far numerous chances to photograph the beauty of the evening skies. Thank you.
Today is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and as I was pondering this feast day, it came to me....conception. That is when God considered Mary alive and a unique person. It was an answer to the skeptics who often point out that "no one knows when human life begins." Except you kept Mary free from original sin from the very beginning of her life...starting at the moment of conception. And this answer came to us many years before we had the technology to confirm that human life does indeed begin then. I cannot understand how people can look at a tiny infant in the womb and say it is not a human life. I just don't get it.
But I thank you, Lord, for this insight. You kept Mary free from sin from the moment of conception so she could become a worthy temple for your Son. Thank you for that.
As I was reading the Gospel, I also for the first time realized it was Mary's innocence that made her question, "How can this be possible for I have had no relations with a man?" She wasn't doubting...only asking because she didn't understand. The angel showed tenderness in responding to her query and Mary showed us all how to be disciples by responding as she did.
Thank you for the gift of Mary and Jesus, almighty Father.
Precious one--
Thank you for your obedience today. Thank you for listening to the still small voice that guides you. Practice listening to this voice so that I may always guide you as I guided you today. I love you and cherish you. You are protected and empowered by me. Do not fear. Go in peace. I love you.

Secret Insights

Ducks on the River Ice
The resident duck population outside my window amazes me as they seem to snuggle upon the ice. They just sit down on the ice or snow and tuck their wings in, looking like they are snuggled down for the night. They are so funny when they come begging for the cracked corn we put out for them daily. They fight and bicker among themselves, running over each other and shoving to get the best or most. It reminds me somewhat of the maddened shoppers on Black Friday who were so anxious to get the bargains offered by a store that they took the hinges off the door and then killed a man by trampling over him after he had fallen down. How very sad.
Today in the Gospel reading for Mass from Matthew 9:29-31, Jesus has healed two blind men after asking them, "Do you believe I can do this?" and they replied yes. So he told them and I'm paraphrasing because I can't remember the exact phrasing that they "will be healed according to their faith." And then he admonishes them to "not tell anyone."
As I was reading this and pondering your words in my heart, Lord, I had a couple of thoughts. First was that I wonder if the blind men would have received their sight if their faith had been less than they led You to believe and that is why you healed them "according to their faith." I guess my thoughts were if you had asked me the same question and I thought you could heal me, but also had some doubts, would that have affected the final result? For example, if I believed you could give me partial sight back but not 20/20 vision, would I only receive partial sight--according to my faith--or would I get the full benefit of your healing and get perfect vision?
And the other thing that came to me while I was pondering the message is that you often admonished the people you healed not to tell anyone about it. But they all did, according to the Gospels.
Knowing human nature as well as you do, did you tell them not to speak of their healing knowing that human nature abhors keeping secrets and usually no one keeps quiet? It would be humorous if you did so, knowing that this testimony would spread like wildfire, much more so than if you told them to go out and spread the good news? Does that make sense to you, my Lord?
Good Evening my sweet one--
You are much blessed and I love you so much. Thank you for making the effort to write daily and to reflect in your writings on the daily Mass readings. Faith has everything to do with the answer to prayers and if you believe in me and in what I can do, why would you limit that with only partial healing? According to your faith, you receive the answers to your prayers. Meditate on your prayer requests and my answers to those to get your answer to that question.
As to the other, you have asked to know me better and to love me better. What better way to "spread the good news" than to tell humans not to speak of it? It works better than asking them to go out and evangelize, wouldn't you say? It is an insight into me and my knowledge of the human heart and mind and soul that I granted you because you asked. I love you and wish to share my life with you. This is an insight that theologians probably wouldn't ever give you. You are precious to me. Enjoy this gift. I love you--go in peace and share my secret with all who read your writings.

A Wintery Advent Day

Winter

Although this picture was taken last March, the weather here has been pretty wintry. Last winter was long, cold and very snowy. We rely so much on the snow pack that accumulates in the mountains for our summer activities, including growing hay to feed the animals that ultimately feed us.

Many people complain about winter, but if we didn't have it, we could have no summer and the water necessary for our lifestyles.

I thank you, my Lord and my God for the snow you send to us. Please send us as much as we need to survive the coming summer and I thank you for your bounty. You are an awesome God and know what we need so much better than we know it ourselves.

I went to the doctor with my friend Pat on Tuesday. She is concerned about an increased tendency to forgetfulness and dementia. I pray for her that it is something that can be addressed medically.

As we prepare for your coming, Lord, so many people are already celebrating what they think of as the "holiday season." I will strive to let them know, in all I say and do, that this is Advent, a time of preparation for your coming and that the Christmas season doesn't begin until Dec. 25 and lasts until the Feast of Epiphany.

It is difficult, though, because as a business owner we are obliged to support the local community activities, most of which involve lights and decorations for the "holiday season," rather than a more subdued preparation time.

So, while we must prepare for Your coming, we must also do some decorating and celebrating. I hope you don't mind and that I don't lose sight of the "reason for the season."

My child--

My followers must be strong enough to stand against the tide of secularism overrunning your country. You must find a way to express your belief that this is a time of preparation, similar to Lent, and that undue and excessive celebrating and merrymaking should be reserved until the coming of the King. Pray much for the guidance of my Holy Spirit in this matter and He will guide you as to what you should do and say. Do not be afraid to stand against the tide. My Spirit is strong to help you when you wish to stand against anything not according to my Will.

Go forth now and think of some way that you may resist the impulse to begin celebrating Christmas before the Feast of the Nativity. Do not be afraid. I love you and will guide you.

Thanksgiving and the beginning of Advent

Majestic Colorado Rockies
I took this while we were in Colorado visiting the kids over the Thanksgiving holiday. On Friday, we visited the famous Mt. Lindo which is home to the cross you can see on the mountain sides above Denver. It also is home to a cemetery which I had no idea about and it is quite astounding, both in the view...as you can see...and in the peacefulness that accompanies being at 10,000 feet.
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving and I do thank you my Lord and God for the wonderful family you have given me. You have blessed me mightily. Thank you for seeing my son safely home from Iraq for his two week leave and thank you for seeing my daughter and her family safey through the crazy holiday traffic.
You are an awesome God and I love you and thank you for so many things. Help me to get back into my routine, especially now that Advent has begun. I would like to give you something special. What would you like, my God? How can I repay you for all you have done for me?
My sweet one--
You are precious to me. I wish you would speak of me more to your family. I know they see you and your faith as a strength and if you would remember to speak to them of how you feel about me, I would dearly love it. It would give me a opening to be more active in their lives. I know you are saddened that they have chosen to not be active in their faith. Keep on praying for them and speak to them of me and we will see if we can bring them back into the fold.
As to what I would like you to do for Advent...I would like you to do whatever you would like to do as long as you do it consistently. Speak to me, read of me, pray...do anything that you would like to do in this time of preparation for my coming, but do it in a consistent manner, not hit and miss as you so often do. I love you. Go in peace, sweet child.