How Close Is Too Close?

 

  We loved visiting Yellowstone National Park! The scenery was spectacular! The number of active geysers and hot springs was astonishing! The wildlife was wild! Antelopes, bears, and bison were roaming the trails and fields. Iconically, we were stopped twice as herds of bison crossed the roads. It was exciting to see these incredible animals up close, but what shocked me was how many people got out of their cars to take pictures! Was I snapping pictures as they walked by? Absolutely, but from a safe distance inside my car. Parents stepped out with their children, trying to get that perfect photo op. Why would anyone put themselves so close to danger? I wanted to scream, "What are you doing? Get back in your cars!"

  I thought about this more later. I wonder how often God may be screaming warnings to all of us. "Hey, take a step back, turn around. This isn't good for you!" We know the dangers that can harm our spiritual relationship with God, and sometimes we risk getting too close and going too far. Temptation is everywhere! Often, we don't even recognize our own behavior as reckless because everyone else is doing it.

  This week, I'm going to take some quiet time to hear the warnings God has been speaking or screaming to me. Whether these behaviors are intentional or unrecognized, I need to see my life more clearly. My far vision might be pretty good, but my near vision could use a corrective lens. I don't need a wild life that teeters on the edge of danger; I'd rather be walking hand-in-hand with my Creator.

-Susan

The Road To Heaven

 

  I had dreamed of going to Montana for years. In fact, it was on my bucket list. Halfway through the vacation, my family and I drove from the southern border of Montana to the northern border to hike in Glacier National Park. It was one of the most beautiful drives I have taken. I was drinking Diet Coke and belting out song after song on my "Jesus Jams" playlist as I wound through the mountains and open meadows. Every turn in the road was more beautiful than the last.

 This road was definitely less traveled.  I only occasionally passed other vehicles. The road was a series of ups and downs that kept my heart racing to the beat of the songs.  At times, the road seemed to climb straight up, and all I could see were the blue skies above me and puffy white clouds.  I couldn't even see where the road was taking us.  I smiled widely, turned to my daughter in the front seat, and said, "I don't know where this road is taking us, but it feels like we are going straight to heaven!"  We just kept laughing and singing as these ups and downs continued for an hour.  It was an exhilarating ride.  I felt like God was with us the whole time as we admired the beautiful world He created.

  Even now, I smile when I think about that drive. Glacier Park was stunning.  Glacier was the destination, but I feel the journey there is an important part of the story and has taught me a lot as well. The twists and turns, the highs and lows, and the inability to see what lay ahead seemed to capture my life metaphorically.  I am doing my best to steer toward heaven, but I feel the journey is incredibly important.  God's beauty is all around me through every high and low, every valley, and every green meadow.  God is right beside me. The path I am on often looks like the road less traveled, but with God beside me, I know it is the path He has chosen for me.

-Susan

Is That the Holy Spirit?

 

  My granddaughter and I were swinging in the backyard when I looked up and spotted a white bird high in the sky. My first thought was, “Oh my gosh, is that the Holy Spirit?”   My one-year-old granddaughter did not reply. 

  Now I know you may think I’m crazy, but hear me out. I have never seen a white bird in my backyard. I have seen robins, blue jays, cardinals, sparrows, ducks, and hawks, but never a white bird. Although you could easily argue this case otherwise, my heart wants to believe the Holy Spirit hovers around me. In fact, I love that idea. 

  We recently celebrated the feast of Pentecost, but why not celebrate it every day? Our Baptism marked and changed our lives in ways we can’t even comprehend. We sometimes say too casually that we have received the gift of the Holy Spirit at our Baptism. The Divine chooses to dwell in us. That should make our heads spin and our hearts swell. To say God is generous is an understatement. God has given us everything we need to live holy lives. He believes we can do it. Shouldn’t we live as if we believe this as well?

  So I say with confidence, “I saw the Holy Spirit today.”  He was flying over my neighborhood.  He is present in my granddaughter’s smile, and He was present in my daughter’s hands earlier that morning as she helped me. I see the Holy Spirit everywhere, and it fills me with joy! Join my enthusiasm for the Holy Spirit, and be sure to look for Him in your life as well!

-Susan

It's All About The Details

 

  

This past spring, I had the opportunity to hike with my sister on several beautiful trails in Arizona. To my delight, the timing was perfect for seeing the cacti bloom. I was captivated by the different flowers. I snapped picture after picture of these delicate blooms (almost to the point of driving my sister crazy). I was pleased when I returned home and noticed I had captured more than just the flower in one of my pictures.

 What I hadn’t noticed while taking the picture was the bee pollinating the flower. It made me realize that the beauty of God’s creations is even more amazing when you notice the details. It’s so easy to take for granted everything that God has created.

 
 Please join me this week in praising God! Take a closer look at your life. Remember some of your sweetest memories and notice how God was present. Recall a very difficult time in your life and how God helped you through it. What may have seemed like a coincidence or good luck was actually God arranging all the details just so. Take a deep breath in and blow it out. We live and breathe because the breath of God desires you and loves you.  You are an amazing person, and the intricate fingerprint of God is all over you.  We have been blessed with millions of tiny, unnoticed details. Don’t take God for granted this week. Take a closer look at our wonder- working God and love Him even more!

-Susan

Feast Of The Sacrad Heart Of Jesus

 

 "O come let us adore Him

O come let us adore Him

O come let us adore Him

Christ the Lord."

  As I bow down to honor you today, I beg You to pour Your Love and Mercy upon the Church and the whole world. Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in You!

-Susan

Your True Presence

 

 Reverently, I walk down the Church aisle. Is this just another ordinary Sunday? Never. My God is calling me forward. Who am I to be invited to receive Jesus?  I am no one special, not at all worthy, yet He loves me anyway.  My heart hears Him call my name.

  Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. I often repeat these words slowly over and over before and after receiving the Holy Eucharist.  I hope that by repeating these words, I will be able to grasp their meaning.  This gift, this moment, this Holy Eucharist is beyond my comprehension, and yet I boldly receive, because I so desperately need Him.  

  Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. Jesus gives me all of Himself; why do I give so little in return? Change me, Jesus. My love is too weak.  Strengthen and enlighten me with Your True Presence. Please keep loving me more than I deserve. 

-Susan

Ready To Serve

 

  Often,  as I am getting ready for work, a recurring thought comes to mind, "Why do I have to go to work today?  Why can't I just be independently wealthy?" Those thoughts quickly fade as I put on my uniform and run out the door. Even though I enjoy entertaining the idea of a life of leisure, I know that is not where I will find true happiness. The other day, as I was praying the rosary, I had an epiphany. While meditating on the wedding at Cana, I suddenly realized, "I want to be a servant like those at the wedding."

  Those servants were exactly where God wanted them to be. They instinctively listened to Mary's command, "Do whatever He tells you." They trusted that Mary had insight they lacked. I want to be just like that.  I want Mary to lead me directly to Jesus. I want to hear Jesus' instructions and follow them without question. I want to do Jesus' Will, even when it's hard and I don't understand how it will all work out. 

  I brought this new feeling into prayer later that night. "Jesus, I'm sorry. I complain a lot about having a better life." I closed my eyes and waited for a response. 

  In the moments of prayer that followed, I saw Jesus shake his head and smile at me. "My child, I want that for you, too, but not just yet. If you follow my ways, you will no longer be serving at the wedding feast; you will be sitting with me at the table. I promise you will be happier than you could ever imagine. But right now, I need these jars filled with water. Can I count on you?"

 I returned His smile and replied, "Absolutely."

-Susan

This Is Deeply Personal

  

  The Feast of Pentecost marks the birth of the Catholic Church. The Holy Spirit guides the whole Church, but just as importantly, the Holy Spirit uniquely guides and inspires you. The Holy Spirit can be an incredible wind, but often is a soft whisper. The Spirit speaks every language and moves every heart in a deeply personal way.  Does the Holy Spirit need to send tongues of fire into your life? Usually not, because the Holy Spirit has been speaking to you since your baptism. You know His voice. You know His love.  The Holy Spirit doesn’t need to make grand gestures; He just needs us to be more attentive.  The power of God lives within us. Have you discovered how to say “yes” to the Holy Spirit?

 Mary’s “yes” to the Holy Spirit changed the world forever. We should imitate Mary by saying “yes" to the Holy Spirit every day.  Perhaps we could find simple ways to invite the Holy Spirit to work through us.  We could pray, "Holy Spirit, I give you permission to use my heart to love others. Use my ears to hear and respond to others' needs.  Use my mouth to speak words of comfort,  to encourage peace and justice, and to preach the gospel.  Open my mind, Holy Spirit, to God’s wisdom and make me more aware of all your movements within me."

 Holy Spirit, you know me better than I  know myself. I desire to know you this way as well. This desire is deeply personal. I am yours, Holy Spirit, and I am eternally grateful that you are all mine as well. Holy Spirit, go ahead and love me as much as you can, because I desire to love you this way, too!

-Susan

  

It's Definitely Possible

 

  I've been planning an upcoming summer vacation in the mountains. I always check out the local Catholic churches and their Masses ahead of time.  I was shocked to discover that the churches were not that close and that there was only one Mass time.  It made me realize how fortunate I am.  In my hometown, I have at least seven churches within fifteen minutes of me, each offering multiple Masses. The Church may be flourishing where I live, but there is still much work to be done.

  As we celebrate the Ascension of Jesus into heaven, my thoughts turn to the apostles' faith. They were given a task that seemed almost impossible — to share the Gospel throughout the world. Without the help of the Holy Spirit, this task would have been impossible, but the gift of the Holy Spirit opens the heart to God in ways beyond our comprehension.  Everything is possible!

  Let's all continue spreading the Gospel. The Holy Spirit is as strong today as He was for the apostles. Let's spend the next week in prayer with Mary.  Let's pray that God opens our eyes to see who else needs to hear the Good News.  It's possible you may not even have to venture more than fifteen minutes from your home. You can do this! The Holy Spirit dwells in you.  Your faith can move mountains and people, too!

-Susan

Love You Mom!

 

  Today we celebrate Mother's Day! I have two mothers in heaven-my earthly mother and my heavenly mother. My heart goes out to both of them today, for they have significantly shaped me into the person I am. Today is a day to give our mothers cards, flowers, or special little gifts.  They, of course, will be thoughtful and appreciated, but I would like to suggest another incredible gift. Either begin or renew your devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

  This devotion spans the centuries, but was significantly highlighted at Fatima in 1917. It was initially one of the three secrets given to the children at Fatima.  During an apparition in 1925, Sister Lucia was permitted to reveal the secret.  Jesus desired a devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. It was Mary's heart that nourished Him in the womb, Mary's heart that raised Him on earth, and Mary's heart that suffered as He hung on the cross. And now it pleases Jesus to allow many souls to be saved and for peace to come to the world through loving the Immaculate Heart of His mother.

  This Mother's Day, let's make Jesus happy.  Let's give Mary our hearts.  Let our prayers through the Rosary join hers, for faithfulness to God and for peace in the world. If you are looking for the perfect thoughtful gift that could change the world and make heaven sing, this is it! I may never do anything significant in the eyes of men in my lifetime, but I hope that at the end of my life, there will be a tombstone with a rosary on it that reads, "She helped change the world by giving Jesus and Mary her heart."

-Susan

May is for Mary!

 

  Celebrating Mary in May makes me so happy!  You may be wondering, "Why do we honor Mary throughout the entire month of May?" My response is, "One month isn't long enough! Let's keep it going until the end of October!"  I don't know how I would get through life without Mary. She is the calm in my storms, the compass when I am lost, the hand that pulls me forward, and the mother who loves me more than I deserve. I have consecrated myself to Mary, and I strongly encourage everyone to do the same.

  Mary loves God and His Will perfectly. Mary's life on earth, and now in heaven, is devoted to serving God and loving the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Whatever love we give to Mary, she gives it to God.  She makes a constant gift of herself to God. Mary takes the love we offer to God, purifies it, and combines it with her own love, so that our gift of love to God is greater than we could offer on our own.

  "My soul does magnify the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my savior." Mary helps us to recognize God's goodness in our lives.  She highlights His Mercy, His love, and His forgiveness.  We often underestimate God's love, and we are so fortunate to have Mary, who highlights God's generosity. Mary's clear focus on God helps us to become more faithful by placing God at the forefront of our lives and allowing distractions to fade away.

  Commit yourselves to Mary this month and all the days to follow. You will discover that the closer you grow to Mary, the closer you come to God! God certainly arranges everything perfectly, doesn't He? I am amazed by all the gifts He has given us, especially the gift of His own mother!

-Susan

The Good News

 

 “Good evening, I’m Sally Crocker with Channel 6 News.  Let’s go to our top story of the evening: The price of sin seems to be out of control. People these days are really feeling the pressure. Let’s turn now to our field reporter.  Jim, can you tell us if there is any relief in sight for people?  Hardworking families are having a tough time keeping it all together.”
 “Well, Sally, I’m down here at the corner of Cathedral and Saint streets at St. Mary’s Church.  I’m being told they have been fighting sin since the church was built almost 100 years ago. Back then, people were also feeling pressure from the inflation of sin.  So the people in the community came together to pray and ask for help from the parish priest and from God himself. And they had tremendous success!  It seems that the more people attended Mass and received the sacraments, the price of sin in their lives decreased dramatically.  
 Standing next to me now is Father Ron, the current priest of St. Mary’s.  Father Ron, do you think the success St. Mary’s had in the past could be duplicated today, and what exactly would that look like?”
 “Well, Jim, I definitely think we could wage a war on sin. In fact, the Church has never stopped doing so. We just need people to make God and the Church a priority again.”
 “Father Ron, are you suggesting we need to put God first in our lives?”
 “Yes!  When we put God first in our lives, we begin to live according to the Gospel.  We love and respect one another.  We help those in need. We listen to God’s Will rather than our own. We trade selfish lives for holy ones.”
 “Wow, that almost sounds too good to be true. But how difficult would this be for people? How would anyone even know when you are celebrating a Mass, and who exactly would be allowed to come?”
 “Jim, the Church welcomes everyone. It is our mission to share the Good News about Jesus with everyone!  Finding our Mass times is really quite easy. They are posted on the marquee in front of the church and listed in the church paper. We have a church website, a Facebook page, and an Instagram page. We also have a church office with a secretary who can answer any questions you may have, as well as a phone number. We do our best to make being a part of the parish as easy as possible.  I believe there is a direct correlation between the decline in parishioners and the toll sin is taking on people. Unfortunately, our numbers have been down lately, but we are confident that those returning to the church will continue to have great success in fighting the high cost of sin in their lives just as they did nearly a century ago.”
 “Well, there you have it, Sally.  Some old-fashioned praying and going to Mass could just be the answer we have been searching for.  Back to you, Sally."

-Susan

  

He Lights The Way

 

  While waiting for my turn for confession, I sat in a pew reflecting and talking with Jesus. It was my turn next, and as I looked down the aisle toward the confession room, I saw rays of light streaming through the stained-glass windows. I smiled as I noticed the beautiful colors of light that formed a pattern all the way to the confessional door. As I sat there, I couldn’t help but think how fitting it was. Of course, the path to reconciliation could be filled with light.  Of course, it would be beautiful.  

  There is nothing more beautiful than a sinner being reconciled with God.  All of heaven rejoices!  God’s light not only leads us to Reconciliation, but also fills us with His light.  We do not have to walk in darkness. Jesus said, “Walk while you have the light so that the darkness does not overcome you.”  

  Jesus is the Light of the world, and He is waiting for you.  If you are looking for a sign, just look up. He is giving you the green light to come in, talk, and be forgiven. It's your turn.

-Susan

The people who walked in darknesshave seen a great light;Upon those who lived in a land of gloom

a light has shone.

Divine Mercy Sunday

 

(image by Doxology Design Shop on Etsy)

  The message of Divine Mercy is so beautiful. God reaches out to us, drawing us so close to His heart so that His love and mercy save us from our sins and sufferings. Jesus desires to restore our brokenness with an ocean of healing graces. These abundant channels of grace are the means by which Jesus helps us to obtain heaven. Jesus is always generous with us, but He is especially generous with His graces on the Feast of Divine Mercy. This feast day is too good to miss!

  If you ever get the chance to read the Diary of  St. Faustina, I  highly recommend it.  God's love and mercy pour out of every page.  Jesus conveys to St Faustina the importance of trusting Him completely.  The more we trust Jesus, the more graces of mercy we will receive. This feast day is not only for those faithfully following Jesus, but also for all who have fallen away.  He doesn’t want anyone to miss out.  He wants to heal all of us.   He wants our hearts: broken, stained, selfish, or prideful. He can heal them.  His love is more powerful than sin or death. 

  So how do we receive these incredible graces on Divine Mercy Sunday? God makes it very easy for us. We only need to receive the Eucharist in a state of grace on Divine Mercy Sunday and trust God's mercy. From the Diary: "The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment.  On that day all the Divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened." (699)  Then follow the ABCs of Divine Mercy. Ask for God’s mercy, be merciful to others, and trust completely in God’s mercy. It’s so simple, and the future you, living in eternity, will be forever grateful. Go ahead. Trust God. This is the deal of a lifetime!

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Believe

  

  You sat quietly listening to the whispered fears and plans. We had all stayed in the upper room for safety. No one knew if it was safe to leave. Grief and fear had paralyzed everyone. Without Jesus, we were lost. Suddenly, the door burst open, and everyone jumped to their feet, ready to run.  Mary Magdalene, gasping for air, announces, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him."

  "What?" echoed through the room. Someone took Jesus' body? Why? You quickly glance at Mary, worried it might cause her more pain, but she appears to remain at peace. Then Peter looks at you and grabs your arm.  "Let's go. You know where the tomb is.  The rest of you stay here and stay safe."

  Your glance again shifts to Mary. She nods in approval and quietly states, "It's the third day."  

  Without a second thought, you and Peter run toward the tomb. One after another, your thoughts race quickly, pushing your legs to move even faster. Did someone really steal His body? It's the third day. How many would be needed to roll the stone?  It's the third day. Had you not been informed that Roman soldiers were guarding the tomb?  It's the third day. Who would take His body? It's the third day. You remember Jesus predicted that He would be killed and rise on the third day. Everything He said proved true. Could this also be true?  For the first time in days, you allow yourself to hope. Fueled by this hope, you don't even notice that Peter can't keep up with you. You arrive at the tomb first and see that the stone has indeed been rolled away! You notice no signs of soldiers. You scan the surrounding area, making sure it’s not a trap, as you wait for Peter to catch up.

  "Is His body gone?" Peter asks, completely out of breath.

  "I waited for you." You follow Peter into the tomb. His body was indeed gone! But the linen cloths seemed to be carefully rolled up. Why would someone bother to do that? That makes no sense. Those who robbed graves took whatever was valuable, especially the linens.

  Slowly and cautiously, you and Peter make your way back to the upper room. You both stay silent on the way back to avoid attracting any attention.  You desperately want to believe that Jesus was somehow alive, just as he predicted. But you saw Him crucified on the cross.  You watched the blood and water flow from His heart when the soldier pierced His side.  You helped carry His body into the tomb.  He was dead. How could He come back to life?

  You and Peter report everything you saw to the others. Over the next few hours, you share different theories about what might have happened.  One after another, the theories are dismissed.  None of them makes any sense. Nothing has made sense since the Passover meal. Your heart keeps reminding you that it's the third day. It's the third day. You want to believe.

  Then, suddenly, Jesus appeared in the middle of the room! He said, "Peace be with you." In that moment, your grief turned into rejoicing! Jesus is alive—truly alive! It is the third day, and Jesus has risen from the grave just as He promised! Your eyes confirm what your heart so desperately wanted to believe. Jesus is the Son of God, and death has no power over Him! This changes everything.  His love for us changes everything!

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Trust God's Plan

 

  It was late at night when Judas arrived with the soldiers.  Judas was walking toward Jesus, and you knew you had to act.  You open your mouth to scream, "No!" but nothing comes out. Again, you try to shout, "Stop!" but your voice fails you. Why can’t I scream? Where is my voice? I have to stop this? I know what’s going to happen. This can’t happen. I have to stop this. I have to stop this. You fall to your knees, sobbing as they take Jesus away.

  Suddenly, you hear James’ voice and feel him shaking you.  “Wake up, wake up! You’re having a nightmare!” 

  You look into James' face and confess, “I couldn’t stop it! I knew what horrible things would happen, and I couldn’t prevent it. Every time I close my eyes, I see His blood-stained face gasping for air. I see the nails in His feet and the blood dripping down. I see—”

  “You have to stop reliving it.  Mary is finally sleeping. Don’t waken her.” James commands. 

  “Ok, ok, you’re right. I have to take care of Mary now. I promised Him.” James lies back down, but you remain sitting, hugging your legs, your face touching your knees, trying to escape from all of the memories of the last 24 hours. Your body starts shaking involuntarily as you try to understand how this all happened. How could they have beaten and crucified Him?  How?  So many excruciating, painful details flash before your eyes. How can I make this all go away? You can’t. You were there and saw everything. Tears keep streaming down your face. You can’t stop them.  How can He be gone?

  You did your best to stay strong for Mary. There were times when Jesus’ agony seemed to physically pierce Mary. You did your best to support her as she struggled with her pain. Her body sometimes went limp, but she stayed faithful to Jesus and the Father.  She never said anything harsh or unkind. You could see her lips moving in prayer, and sometimes a word or two was spoken aloud. She simply kept praying for God's mercy for everyone. Her prayers seemed to echo His. Another heart-wrenching memory invades your thoughts. "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."

  How can He be gone? Did I not just lay my head on his chest last night and hear His heartbeat? What did He say? "Stay close to me, my friend.  Soon you will see I love you more than you can understand." The tears continue flowing down your face, one after another.  You can't even be bothered to wipe them away. As the pain in your chest starts to grow, another memory pops into your mind. The night you couldn't sleep, Jesus wrapped his arm around you and kissed your forehead. Remember, he said, "Go get some rest and trust in my timing." 

  "I will always trust you, Jesus," you promise. "I still believe in you." A wave of peace washes over you. "I can still feel you," you whisper. You close your eyes and let the feeling take over you. And it is His peace that calms you down, helping you to drift back to sleep.

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: I Love You

 

  As you recline next to Jesus at Passover, you try to absorb what just happened.  Jesus blessed and broke the bread and said, "Take and eat; this is my body."  The bread was then passed to each of you at the table. Then He took the cup, gave thanks and said, "Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood of the new covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins."

  What did Jesus mean when he said this is my blood, this is my body, which will be shed….Jesus looked at each of us with such love.  His words were slow and perfectly enunciated. He chose these words very carefully and deliberately. The bread is His body. You remember the words He had spoken before. “I am the Bread of Life. “ You must eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink His blood.” This is the new covenant. This all sounds amazing except for one word—shed. His blood will be shed?  

  Your thoughts are interrupted by Jesus’ next announcement, “One of you will betray me.”  What?  One of us is going to betray Jesus?  That sounds impossible. You suddenly feel queasy, and the hair on your arms stands on end. How can this make sense?  Think. Think.  At the first Passover, blood was shed. The blood of the lambs. This blood protected them from death. John the Baptist called Jesus the Lamb of God. Jesus might have to die to save us from death? That can’t be! The Messiah is supposed to save us. Suddenly, another question comes crashing through your thoughts. What are we being saved from? From death? Wait, Jesus also said for the forgiveness of sins. Forgiveness of sins, saved from death. Eat my flesh and drink my blood, and you will have eternal life.  

  Your head starts spinning as you try to understand. You lean your head back against Jesus. You can hear His heart beating.  Your fears begin to fade being this close to His heart. Jesus whispers to you, “Stay close to me, my friend.  Soon you will see I love you more than you can understand.”

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Praise God

 

  As we approached Jerusalem, the people lined the streets and began shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord." It was absolutely exhilarating! Someone handed you a palm branch, and you joined your voice with all the others.  Finally, everyone recognizes Jesus as the Messiah!  There was no need to be silent.  You screamed, "Hosanna!"

  As you watched Jesus riding on the donkey, he was smiling at everyone. Inside, you knew this was going to be an incredible week in Jerusalem.  Perhaps this is the week you have been waiting for. Jesus was going to save us!  But how? What incredible miracle will He perform? What will life be like after Jesus saves us? You could hardly wait! This is the moment you have waited and prayed for your whole life.  You think of all the people who had prayed for this day as well, but never got to see it.  God has blessed you so beyond measure! Praise God!  A favorite psalm comes to mind as you are shouting, "I will extoll you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever.  Every day I will bless you, and praise your name forever and ever.  Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable."

  Even with the crowd being so thick, you catch a glimpse or two of the unhappy Pharisees. Their faces evoke your fear that Jesus will be harmed. You quickly dismiss this thought. It could never happen. The people would not allow it. Silently, you pray, "O Lord, help all to believe that Jesus is Your Son, the Messiah, the Savior of the world!" 

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Trust Me

 

  You spend the night tossing and turning, with so many questions and things you don’t understand. Being a disciple of Jesus is sometimes both easy and hard. You recall Jesus’ words. " I am the bread of life, he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst….Truly, truly I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day….It is the Spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail; the words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life."

Your confused thoughts seek clarity. I must hunger and thirst for Jesus…how will I eat his flesh and drink his blood? I want eternal life…it is the Spirit that gives life. How?  What am I missing?  I don’t understand. 

 You get up and decide that some fresh air will help clear your mind. You look up at the stars.  The sky is so vast; there are definitely mysteries about the stars you don’t understand, yet you believe they are real and exist.  As you stare at the stars, you suddenly hear an all-too-familiar voice, “ Are you having trouble sleeping?”

  You are surprised to see Jesus standing right beside you. You let out a big sigh, “Yes, you could say that. My thoughts keep waking me up.”

  “Anything I can help you with?” Jesus asks.

  “Jesus, when you called me to follow you, you knew I was not the smartest person.  I know you are the Messiah and your words are true, but I feel so stupid that I don't understand everything.  I try to recall your words at night so I don’t forget them, but there's this feeling deep inside me that tells me they mean something more.”

  "My friend, I chose you because you listen not only with your ears but also with your heart. Your heart is so beautiful and capable of more than you can imagine. The truths I share are beyond what anyone can fully understand. Little by little, I will reveal more to you. What doesn’t make sense today will make sense one day.  Your faith can embrace mysteries your mind cannot. A heart that trusts is more valuable than all the knowledge in the world. I have so much to offer you that this world never could."

  Jesus puts his arm around you and gives you a good squeeze. Then he kisses your forehead and says, “Go get some rest.  Trust in my timing.”

  It was that kiss of peace that calmed all your thoughts.  As you watched Jesus walk away, a big yawn overtook you.  You feel like a small child whose parents have just kissed them and sent them to bed. You smile slightly as you say to yourself, “I hope I sleep like a baby tonight.”

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Dedicated to Prayer

 

 After returning from your mission, Jesus asks, "How did it go?"

  Smiling, you reply, "Better than I thought it would be. I felt you with me. "

  Jesus returns your smile.  "I'll always be with you."

  "What would you like me to do next?"

  "Well, I often find it helpful to spend time with the Father and unwind.  Time alone in prayer can work wonders for you."

  You shift your weight and say, "To be honest, I'm kind of spent. I was hoping to just relax a little bit. I don't know if I have anything left to give mentally."

  Jesus surprises you with a little laugh. Prayer doesn't have to be mentally challenging.  It just needs to be honest.  See that hill over there? Grab a blanket, let the sun warm you, and just invite the Father to come near.  Don't prepare any special words, just sit with the Father and let Him fill you up with His goodness."

  "Jesus, if I lie down under the sun, I'm probably going to fall asleep."

  "The Father understands your strengths and weaknesses. Let Him give you what you need.  If a good nap is the answer, then allow His peace to fill you.  You don't always have to do the work; God delights in giving you what you need spiritually and physically. Open your heart to the Father and then follow His lead. He has so many good things in store for you."

  As you consider Jesus' words, a small smile appears on your face. "I don't know why I always see prayer as a chore?  Maybe I have done enough talking lately. Listening and enjoying the Father's love sounds wonderful right now. Climbing that hill sounds like a fantastic idea."  As you begin to walk away, you pause for a moment and look back at Jesus.  "I make that mistake a lot, don't I?"

  Jesus smiles and asks, "Which one?"

  "You know, when I think I have to do all the work instead of relying on God and trusting His ways."

  Jesus laughs a little and says, "Well, you aren't the only one.  It's surprising how many people have difficulty with that! I'm doing my best to help people see that! Go enjoy your time!"

 "I will!"

-Susan

 

The Beloved Disciple-Mission Bound

 

  Jesus has asked you to go out and preach. The idea feels a little scary and uncomfortable.  It's not because you lack faith;  it's just because you're outside your comfort zone.  Jesus watches you nervously pace and wrestle with the idea. What will you even say to others?  Where do you start? Should you start with Jesus is the promised Messiah?  Should you start with Jesus is the Son of God?  You look over at Jesus and notice His smile.

  "You've got this," Jesus says.  "I have it on very good authority that you were made for this!  The Father has given you everything you need."

  You nod, desperately wanting to believe it is true.   

  "Faith is meant to be shared. The Father wants the Kingdom to be filled with believers." There are so many who still need to hear the good news." Jesus again smiles at you before He turns His attention to another disciple. 

  You began packing your bag.  Once again, the "where to begin" idea came up. Maybe you should start with the incredible miracles Jesus performed. Or that Jesus has the power to heal you and forgive your sins.  Who wouldn't want their sins forgiven?   As you begin walking, Jesus gives you a wave, and a sense of optimism washes over you. Where to begin?  Maybe you should just share how Jesus has transformed your life? How has Jesus changed your life?  You think back to the Samaritan woman Jesus met at the well.  She had no special training.  She simply shared her personal experience with Jesus, and people were drawn to her story. An entire town came to believe because of her testimony. 

  Sharing Jesus with others should be sincere and come from your heart. You remember Jesus' words, "The Father has given you all that you need." 

  As you keep walking, you realize you're overthinking it. It just needs to be a casual conversation with people.  It's not a debate. Just let people know that having Jesus in your life changes everything for the better! As you keep walking, it feels like Jesus is walking right beside you.  You lift your eyes and heart toward heaven and whisper, "I knew you wouldn't make me do this alone. You'll be there with me with every word I speak."

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple:: Follow Him

 

 Shortly after breakfast, Jesus approaches you and says, "I'm planning on hiking to the top of the mountain today.  I'd like you to come along.  Are you up for it?"

  You smile and reply, "Of course. Isn't everyone?"

   "I haven't asked everyone. I was hoping just a few of us could spend the day together.  Peter and James have already agreed to come too."

  The sun was already feeling warm as you walked towards the mountain.  Jesus was in a good mood. He shared a few amusing stories about his days as a carpenter.  Each of you, in turn, shared your own funny stories.  The storytelling and laughter made the time pass quickly. As you keep climbing the mountain, Jesus pauses for a moment, looks at you, and asks, "Which of my teachings are you finding most difficult?"  You take a deep breath in and honestly consider His question.  Spend a few minutes talking to Jesus about this.

  At the end of your conversation, Jesus announces it's time to rest. Hours have passed, and you are all exhausted.  It feels good to lie on the ground. You close your eyes for a minute, recalling the conversation you just had with Jesus, and unintentionally drift into a peaceful nap.  That is, until you feel a strong slap across your arm.

  "Get up, get up, get up!" Peter's voice has a strange sense of urgency and excitement.

  Although you are now awake, what you see before you resembles a dream.  What is happening? Clearly, that is Jesus talking with two men, but you have never seen men look like that. It is Jesus who captivates you the most. His appearance is mesmerizing. Light wasn't shining on Him; it was emanating from Him. Words completely fail you as you try to understand what is happening.  Suddenly, Peter begins talking about making tents.  What is he talking about?  We didn't bring any supplies, and are those men actually real?

  Your thoughts, however, vanished as the most unusual cloud hovered over you. That's when you heard God's voice speak directly to you. “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him."

  Instinctively, you fall to the ground. You perceived the holiness and goodness of God, and at the same time, your total unworthiness to be in His Presence. You had been with Jesus for so long, witnessing so many miracles, yet this was a pivotal moment that changed you forever.  God is real! God is speaking directly to you! He exists not just in scripture, but truly and powerfully alive in your life!  His voice silenced any questions about who Jesus is.  Jesus is the Son of God!  His words and teachings must be followed!  You are a disciple of the Son of God! You must strive to be more faithful than ever before!

-Susan