tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5265381362748749442024-03-28T16:31:23.857-04:00Dwelling With The SpiritDwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.comBlogger723125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-19534463878198597082024-03-24T00:00:00.020-04:002024-03-24T00:00:00.301-04:00Encountering The Cross (Week 6)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLFYkhIuxCAmzayAApRFBtIhRUOs1XXVQmcpXvTsGsWz22Cfv2C76HpRwOmGnO3SyS-sMNonWDwBx0BvTu5vgAxI8Spg78fV1lwE4CHF_Gi3ze1_oi_s9A4SWSg8wpa8Z1JE6Eq_UIreS44bL5k4kKYLmaoBY6Ah7InlHFevZ9usYGivLfH98jwywG4Zg/s5464/small-chapel-on-top-of-a-hill-during-sunset-2023-11-27-04-50-12-utc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3070" data-original-width="5464" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLFYkhIuxCAmzayAApRFBtIhRUOs1XXVQmcpXvTsGsWz22Cfv2C76HpRwOmGnO3SyS-sMNonWDwBx0BvTu5vgAxI8Spg78fV1lwE4CHF_Gi3ze1_oi_s9A4SWSg8wpa8Z1JE6Eq_UIreS44bL5k4kKYLmaoBY6Ah7InlHFevZ9usYGivLfH98jwywG4Zg/w640-h360/small-chapel-on-top-of-a-hill-during-sunset-2023-11-27-04-50-12-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div> <span style="font-size: large;">Maggie was old. Her feet moved very slowly, and her arthritic hands could barely pick up her cross. She knew her cross well, but lately, it seemed it was an uphill climb. After a short rest, she picked up her cross again. An old church song came to mind, and she quietly sang the sweet melody as she scuttled along. This song took her back to her childhood days filled with love. Most of her family had passed now, but she still remembered the laughter of family dinners and the example of her parent's faith.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> Inch by painful inch, Maggie continued to make progress. She was pretty sure her days of carrying this cross were almost over. She was almost at the summit, but physical exhaustion forced her to stop. She turned to look around. Maggie smiled and said to herself, "My, it is all so beautiful from here. I wonder why it is so hard to see while you are climbing?" Overcome with exhaustion and emotion, Maggie set her cross down for the last time and laid down next to it. As her eyes closed, she felt a hand on her shoulder and a beautiful voice.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> "Maggie, you did it!" Jesus announced. "You carried your cross like a good and faithful servant. Leave it here. You don't have to carry it anymore!" Jesus bent down and cradled Maggie in His arms, "I'm going to carry it for you." As Jesus carried her the last couple of steps, He whispered, "You're home now." Jesus set Maggie down in front of the most beautiful door she had ever seen. Maggie's legs felt youthful and strong as she watched Jesus place her cross into the keyhole. It was a perfect fit! As the door opened, Maggie smiled widely. It was more beautiful than she had ever imagined! </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> "Welcome home, Maggie! You are going to love it here!"</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></div>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-83131721778451007332024-03-17T00:00:00.029-04:002024-03-17T00:00:00.157-04:00Encountering The Cross (Week Five)<p> </p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJegIQJzFL_diu1IOTmsHQbVZ-g2m3h0kTBSEgHgK04pAKkIo47hu5Pu9iq_f1XnzUt6GE-GVuXniphUBet9j_ci8RTHnFPFiokzoXf1wzOeNh99xQF37dOawuuOhEeGfFq57mi2jPDd1jcJKCtGiHPfCFixXrRuRGG1pMnXj1r4YksisvIY8EuSWqSxk/s4253/christian-cross-on-mountain-top-2023-11-27-05-17-10-utc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2835" data-original-width="4253" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJegIQJzFL_diu1IOTmsHQbVZ-g2m3h0kTBSEgHgK04pAKkIo47hu5Pu9iq_f1XnzUt6GE-GVuXniphUBet9j_ci8RTHnFPFiokzoXf1wzOeNh99xQF37dOawuuOhEeGfFq57mi2jPDd1jcJKCtGiHPfCFixXrRuRGG1pMnXj1r4YksisvIY8EuSWqSxk/w640-h426/christian-cross-on-mountain-top-2023-11-27-05-17-10-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /> Jeremy walked down the church's central aisle, genuflected, and then sat down in his usual pew. He kept his eyes on the crucifix behind the altar. Nervously, his knee shook up and down. For weeks, he had felt God calling him to donate his time, money, and business expertise to build an apartment building for low-income families. Since he owned his own contracting company, he had the knowledge, contacts, and equipment to donate. It was possible, but it would be an enormous undertaking.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "God," Jeremy began, "I know you want this, but I don't know if I could handle it. I would have to fund it with a lot of my profits. If I did this, would I be rewarded somehow?" Jeremy's knee continued to bounce nervously up and down. He unzipped his coat as he began to feel uncomfortably warm. "God, this would take so much of my time. Don't I deserve to have some time to enjoy life? I know this is a good cause, but is there someone else? Why are you asking me to carry this cross? Is this to repay for some of my past mistakes? Will this level the playing field for me?" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jeremy thought about all the things he would have to sacrifice. "What if I just did part of the job? Maybe you could find someone else to help out. I could do fifty percent of the job, and someone else could finish." Jeremy let out an audible sigh. He reflected on this scenario and how it could work. As he thought, he began to scowl. "Well, I could do closer to twenty-five to thirty percent of the job, and you could find two other people to help out. Or maybe I could consult about the job. I could give them some helpful advice. That would work better for me. There are plenty of other people who could help as well." Jeremy felt pleased with the last thought. Consulting, if they need it. Yes, that could definitely work. Jeremy quickly made the sign of the cross and walked out of the church feeling twenty pounds lighter. As he walked out the doors, he thought, "That was a good talk."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Jeremy, Jeremy, come on back," God urged. "I listened to you, but you didn't give me a chance to respond."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> John, the church's patron saint, heard God's plea: "He might come back, Father. It would be a difficult cross for him."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> God nodded. "Yes, I know. Without him, the center will not be built for many years."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Maybe he will realize that the cross isn't a bargaining tool. It is the tool that humbles a soul and keeps them on the path of holiness.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> God smiled at John and said, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps he will hear My voice again when his fears quiet down."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-60919359689021596002024-03-10T00:00:00.004-05:002024-03-10T00:00:00.167-05:00Encountering The Cross (Week Four)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKVZdXk2H9zKkayoTf5CyvBODzFFsTL8u5NzG8hdcxGpTQHQe7Ym-A7N8oaXmRdKpa7JPBphdupMkvJsZz8zrIGnlynKPEb6HXD3l6878MtaE5kphhBudOlxuVe3nXZo_iicOsUG12OMsGyOwHnjJIGJYVrg0kw0srAtk32vFCHfDl1mU4QFbcDIrhRc/s6000/k-199-chim-0034wf-2023-11-27-05-28-40-utc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4004" data-original-width="6000" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKVZdXk2H9zKkayoTf5CyvBODzFFsTL8u5NzG8hdcxGpTQHQe7Ym-A7N8oaXmRdKpa7JPBphdupMkvJsZz8zrIGnlynKPEb6HXD3l6878MtaE5kphhBudOlxuVe3nXZo_iicOsUG12OMsGyOwHnjJIGJYVrg0kw0srAtk32vFCHfDl1mU4QFbcDIrhRc/w640-h428/k-199-chim-0034wf-2023-11-27-05-28-40-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p> <span style="font-size: large;"> Lying in her hospital bed, Gina wondered how she could take care of herself again. The accident had left her with multiple broken bones. The doctors told her it would be a long recovery. Her days were filled with doctors, nurses, and therapists around the clock. At night, she was exhausted but never too tired to pray. "Lord, I know you know what you are doing, but I can't carry this cross alone. It's too much. I need help."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> After several weeks in the hospital, the staff was amazed at her progress and began arranging for Gina to transition to a rehabilitation facility. She was looking over the pamphlets one afternoon when she received a wonderful surprise. Her sister from Denver walked into the room. "Lucy, what are you doing here?" Gina exclaimed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I'm here to help. I've come to take care of you," Lucy announced.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "What about Mike and the kids?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Listen, don't worry about them. I've been working on this since your accident. I wanted to tell you when I had everything arranged. My boss is letting me take time off to take care of you. I will stay until you can function on your own again."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Gina just smiled. Her prayer had been answered.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Twenty-five years later, Gina found herself at the entrance of heaven. She was filled with peace and love as Jesus approached and embraced her. "Welcome home, child," Jesus said with a smile. Gina and Jesus talked for a long time about her life. Some moments were uncomfortable, but mostly, it was simply wonderful. How Jesus described her life was so different from how Gina saw it.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Jesus, I'm so surprised you saw my accident as one of the highlights of my life. I thought it was the lowest. I was in such bad shape that I kept begging you to help me. I knew my prayer was being answered when Lucy announced she was staying to help me. She was such a blessing. Thank you for answering my prayer."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jesus smiled. "Gina, I wasn't answering just your prayer." Jesus handed Gina a list. I also answered the prayer requests of all those praying for you. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Gina looked over the list. She had no idea that many people had been praying for her. "I'm a bit overwhelmed with this list, Jesus. There are so many names I don't even recognize."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Some belong to your church, some are friends of your relatives, your niece Sophie led her whole class in prayer, and some are the sufferings people have offered up. The power of prayer is really underestimated. It does more for a person's body and soul than you could imagine. The doctor's amazement in your recovery was justified. You could have never recovered that quickly on your own. You cried out for help and trusted My Plan. You completely opened yourself up to My graces. That is why I consider this a pivotal moment in your life. You let me take over."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Gina looked lovingly at Jesus and said, "Letting You take over was the best decision I ever made." </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus' smile grew wider. "I have to agree."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Gina thought about her accident and her difficult recovery. "Jesus, am I the only person to misunderstand the beauty of my cross?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">"Gina, there are very few people who do."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-47317443479456054092024-03-03T00:00:00.009-05:002024-03-03T00:00:00.298-05:00Encountering The Cross (Week Three)<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQosGBK4CDRutvQG40xE5Dbql3y9-9JVU57tYMDdf8V4jIQMhTOtYvKvcY20hauZ4amCB0puWW5QEdPw_-wJFGrxj3XsbRX5blq9l3aDWwRI_WBScb3PG4sPQ3q_MC62Ft5XYa8MpFaDbV4Q2aOWTo2wGDl3t0GpL5WUiCL5DQ4wncuYlqVyDfUtUPxE/s6000/IMG_0760.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQosGBK4CDRutvQG40xE5Dbql3y9-9JVU57tYMDdf8V4jIQMhTOtYvKvcY20hauZ4amCB0puWW5QEdPw_-wJFGrxj3XsbRX5blq9l3aDWwRI_WBScb3PG4sPQ3q_MC62Ft5XYa8MpFaDbV4Q2aOWTo2wGDl3t0GpL5WUiCL5DQ4wncuYlqVyDfUtUPxE/w640-h426/IMG_0760.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-size: large;">Maggie had the opportunity to get away to her favorite coastal resort. She loved it here. It was peaceful and quiet, and the scenery was breathtaking. Her husband and children would join her tomorrow, so today was all hers. She followed the walking path along the beach coast. The sun was shining, and the squeal of the seagulls was just slightly louder than the lapsing waves on the shore. "What a beautiful day," Maggie thought to herself.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> As Maggie continued to walk, she began praying. She reflected on her life with her family. She thanked God for all her blessings. All her hard work and planning were paying off. And although her life was not perfect, it was good. Her life was filled with love. Her children were doing well in their studies, and her husband was recently promoted.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> The walking path began to veer away from the water, and she started a slow uphill climb over the bluffs. Halfway up her climb, she stopped when she noticed a large cross in the middle of the path. "That's odd," she thought. "Why is this here?" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">It was then that she heard Jesus speak. "Maggie, this cross is here for you."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "For me? What do you mean?" Maggie asked.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Maggie, I have enjoyed all our moments of prayer together. You have come a long way, and I plan to take you to new heights."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Maggie smiled, "You do?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jesus returned the smile. "Yes, I have something special in mind for you. Here, take my hand, and I will show you." Jesus led Maggie away from the walking path, through a meadow, and then stopped abruptly. "I would like you to begin walking this new path. Some people really need your help. They will lean heavily on you, relying on your strength."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Maggie looked at this new "path." Her first thought was, "Where did this mountain come from? I'm sorry, Jesus, but I don't understand. Where is the path?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Well, it's not an obvious or an easy one. You would have to trust me completely. I will carefully guide your steps so you don't fall."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I could fall?" Maggie gasped in disbelief.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Only if you tried to forge your own way. If you train yourself to listen to My voice, your hardships will all be bearable."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Maggie looked at the mountain. She had no idea how she would climb this. "Jesus, what about my family?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Oh, I want you to bring them, too."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "You want me to lead my family up a treacherous mountain to a place I can't see, all while enduring hardships and caring for people I have never met before? And I will not be in control?" Maggie was flabbergasted and scared.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Yes!" Jesus said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Maggie looked at the mountain. She thought about how pleasant everything was in her life right now. "Jesus, my life is so blessed now; why would I want to change everything?" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Because I believe you could become something more."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Maggie grew very nervous and anxious. She knew this new path would change everything. She loved her life. Everything was going so well. "Jesus." she began, "Do I have a choice?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Of course," Jesus answered. "How close you follow My Plans is always up to you."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Maggie looked down at the ground. "I'm sorry, Jesus, I can't do this. I'm good with all the blessings I have right now. I'm not looking to be challenged. I want to enjoy what I have." Maggie turned away from the mountain, ran through the meadow, and found her walking path along the bluffs. She continued her walk along the bluffs. She felt sure she had made the right choice, but she was completely unaware that her spiritual life would plateau at this height.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jesus watched Maggie walk away. He then turned his eyes toward the mountain. Jesus saw what Maggie could not. Had Maggie chosen this path, it would have been not easy, but in the end, it led to Rome, where she would have been a canonized saint.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-25293323564101171142024-02-25T00:00:00.001-05:002024-02-25T00:00:00.183-05:00Encountering The Cross (Week Two)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCcNQm2_13p-CxJXYhPGgQxBlw6ccprs8TzqZ-JnZUiRWHlnVluOpVtyYQFStzCYvciGnQtq891dakFjGerFqAHfIFct9voZhTRAFgz6_0uTU_9QOm3u0qGQhh1RG6c5ba1RyKX1mhXNfX4weTosAH2ZCGRuGkHBz7ICMlPcYESgzkCeMmt8v0kXpvaI/s2402/Screenshot%202024-02-23%20at%2010.10.01%E2%80%AFPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1598" data-original-width="2402" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCcNQm2_13p-CxJXYhPGgQxBlw6ccprs8TzqZ-JnZUiRWHlnVluOpVtyYQFStzCYvciGnQtq891dakFjGerFqAHfIFct9voZhTRAFgz6_0uTU_9QOm3u0qGQhh1RG6c5ba1RyKX1mhXNfX4weTosAH2ZCGRuGkHBz7ICMlPcYESgzkCeMmt8v0kXpvaI/w640-h426/Screenshot%202024-02-23%20at%2010.10.01%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span> <span style="font-size: large;">It had been the worst two months of his life. Jim still couldn't wrap his head over losing his job and everything else that followed. He closed his eyes and fell to the ground on his knees. When Jim opened his eyes again, he found himself on his favorite path. So many times in the past, he almost ran up this mountain path, but not today. Today, even just breathing the mountain air was difficult. Today, his favorite path seemed dark and confusing. He lost his footing more than once, tripping over half-buried rocks and sliding over slippery gravel. Then he tripped over something and hit the ground hard.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jim just played there for a minute, not wanting to get up. After several minutes, he slowly pulled himself up. He had a couple of nice scrapes, but nothing appeared broken. "What did I even trip over?" Jim thought to himself. He walked back a couple of feet and looked at the ground. "You have got to be kidding me," he said out loud. How did he not see that large wooden cross on the ground? How did it appear out of nowhere? Stripped of his material possessions and pride, Jim just stood there feeling naked and cold. Looking at the rough wood, he saw two words carved into the grain: Trust Me.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jim just stared at those words, unable to move. Was he really capable of trusting anyone right now? As he stood there, the sun pushed through the clouds, and something shiny caught his eye a few feet past the cross. Jim walked over and picked up the fancy pen lying in the grass. It looked similar to the ones he had always carried in his briefcase. Jim held the pen as he walked back to the cross. His eyes fixated on the words "Trust Me." Jim wondered, "Was this an invitation? A command? Or insanity?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> After several soul-bearing moments, Jim bent down and, using the pen, etched out two new words on the cross beam, "Lead Me" " As he picked up the cross, the wind blew, unveiling a path to his right. He thoughtfully considered the path. "Maybe it's time to leave this old path behind and follow this new one." Jim took a deep breath in and then slowly released it. He repositioned his hands to get a better grip on the cross. The weight was heavy but manageable.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Faithfully, he began walking up this new path. And although he had no idea where it was going, he didn't feel lost. Jim knew he was being led.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-13454503847982171292024-02-18T00:00:00.001-05:002024-02-18T00:00:00.381-05:00Encountering The Cross (Week One)<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpQ5DfTkDIoVeeMAYtLLkIr3Cm1PLnSB2EowO272LpCVNZ4m9_nQWFC4YttvnzuXu5c3AuMxVik3zWrFDp4dZqgJyXh0cTyl5vapBs2fYUbg53lSAxIzd5AtNIJ4zjdn_AoxGi0rjhmQB9q8kPG-FH7sQJ-8cXcpfUcH5K3RHKiJCDZUEPs32CjgpWWg/s4032/a-large-christian-cross-stands-at-the-edge-of-a-pi-2023-11-27-05-15-47-utc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpQ5DfTkDIoVeeMAYtLLkIr3Cm1PLnSB2EowO272LpCVNZ4m9_nQWFC4YttvnzuXu5c3AuMxVik3zWrFDp4dZqgJyXh0cTyl5vapBs2fYUbg53lSAxIzd5AtNIJ4zjdn_AoxGi0rjhmQB9q8kPG-FH7sQJ-8cXcpfUcH5K3RHKiJCDZUEPs32CjgpWWg/w640-h480/a-large-christian-cross-stands-at-the-edge-of-a-pi-2023-11-27-05-15-47-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Numbly, she walked through the maze of hospital hallways towards the exit. She couldn't control the tears. She didn't even try to wipe them away. She just let them fall. Blurred faces walked past, but the only thing that she could focus on was the doctor's voice, "It's stage four cancer. There's not much we can do."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> She opened and closed her car door as quickly as possible. She sat down and hit the steering wheel repeatedly. She screamed with fierce anger, "Why? Why are you letting this happen to me?" For a long time, she sobbed uncontrollably, begging God to take away this cross. When her tears ran dry, she sat wholly exhausted, looking straight into her future. From the depths of her being came words she almost choked on, "Lord, let Your Will be done." From nowhere, a fresh load of tears flooded her face. When those tears slowed, she whispered one more prayer, "Lord, will you help me, please? I can't do this alone," she said. After that prayer, a wave of peace came over her. She knew she would not carry this cross alone.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> She backed her car out of the parking space and shifted into drive. She had resolved to move forward, realizing she had no control over where she was headed. Each day, she paved her path with prayers through a strenuous terrain of doctor visits, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. She had a lot of bad days, and she had some horrible days. But God kept His promise. He never left her side. His love and peace held her from falling apart.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> From time to time, she still wondered, "Why?' </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> But God never answered that question. Instead, He would whisper, "Trust me, child." </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> And she would reply, "Jesus, I trust in You,"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan <br /></span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-63755350625681027872024-02-17T12:41:00.002-05:002024-02-17T14:16:01.595-05:00Encountering the Cross (Introduction)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9azX_exdYIczLAC7QpiCywi5s5w7tcLfMfzhBimtKl6XtMJQyQWhiPQnFPfoMAhOlwGfZOmPM4jwmsZP7fPwyif7apdV7b5YXQ3h5KvrdYEpH-ByKSdz4ySmAj8BOo1NhPRCp1hrfljo-OXByyYg31OI-3cDfICcV_eHe3x_pkwjiUXFNvxmjMdansU/s960/image000000.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9azX_exdYIczLAC7QpiCywi5s5w7tcLfMfzhBimtKl6XtMJQyQWhiPQnFPfoMAhOlwGfZOmPM4jwmsZP7fPwyif7apdV7b5YXQ3h5KvrdYEpH-ByKSdz4ySmAj8BOo1NhPRCp1hrfljo-OXByyYg31OI-3cDfICcV_eHe3x_pkwjiUXFNvxmjMdansU/w640-h480/image000000.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> As we journey through Lent this year, I want to concentrate on the theme: Encountering the Cross. We are all called to carry our cross. Jesus says, "For whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." (Matt 16:24). We know this, yet sometimes we are surprised that as we work to grow closer to God, suddenly, the cross stands before us. Our first response is, "Why? Why is this necessary? I'm trying so hard to follow You." Although this may be our first response, it is not the most important. Our second response to the cross is more important. What are we going to do next?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> The series will begin tomorrow.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-62808922409826994742024-02-11T00:00:00.001-05:002024-02-11T00:00:00.181-05:00Out With The Old, Go Bold!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaO8VYqLDR3RaEXiu7WpuPHe8D6ydIABUR7fuQOkXEIrYWZb2ujCGlUKYS8SpUXvkBJcL35xm8QSMEvWwmo8ghuuJ9MV8uJuPB_EYk43gCslAA69J9vQgtVh3mSy7K02t0o2CaRL6KXiSvEHtDSA7WS3clqWBZrvDJ2FIm3E8RpEiMOE6AGPxjRSWkJ0/s2842/Screenshot%202024-02-10%20at%209.05.53%E2%80%AFPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1328" data-original-width="2842" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaO8VYqLDR3RaEXiu7WpuPHe8D6ydIABUR7fuQOkXEIrYWZb2ujCGlUKYS8SpUXvkBJcL35xm8QSMEvWwmo8ghuuJ9MV8uJuPB_EYk43gCslAA69J9vQgtVh3mSy7K02t0o2CaRL6KXiSvEHtDSA7WS3clqWBZrvDJ2FIm3E8RpEiMOE6AGPxjRSWkJ0/w640-h300/Screenshot%202024-02-10%20at%209.05.53%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p> <span style="font-size: large;"> Lent is only a few days away. Perfectly, Ash Wednesday is on Valentine's Day, a day we devote to those we love. Unfortunately, most people don't get excited for the season of Lent. Many of us feel thrown off guard as if it snuck up and yelled, "Surprise! It's Me, Lent!" Sometimes, a mild form of panic or dismay creeps in, asking, "What will you do? What are you giving up?" Fortunately, there are so many beautiful ways to grow closer to Christ. Please pray about it. Don't make this important decision on your own.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I want to suggest going bold this year. Do something new. Choose something difficult. It's okay if we come up short. It doesn't mean we failed. It just means we have yet to perfect that particular attitude or action. It doesn't mean we should give up or settle for something more manageable. Sometimes, a failed attempt means we need to approach the challenge differently.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Introspection can be challenging. Recognizing and confronting our shortcomings can be discouraging, but it shouldn't be. Remember, God is in love with you. Where we see weakness, God sees opportunities to grow. He takes great delight in helping us do more than we ever thought imaginable. We might think, "Oh, no, it's Lent again (big sigh). What am I going to do this year?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> God, on the other hand, is revving up for the big season. God is bubbling with joy as He says, "It's Lent again! Let me show you what I know is possible this year! I Am so excited to grow closer to you!" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-51135944924396265622024-02-03T21:41:00.000-05:002024-02-03T21:41:31.246-05:00The Question <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWlyluoEkRUHGSyFFPuLBC6dWkD0Jpv7OEAa5G_HI404yiGS41X3CucETg4-CFPczWiadC_z8zjPk8WxpEJheobBut8Sk1nHXsV3cP-seOvcrX-lMl6jwOEHt3XkHYZscBA4w613pm4w-Aj_iWcqoXVsxeWdv5aD4oxW58WMgVAkK3QjoRIDMabik720/s2448/blue-sky-2023-11-27-05-10-05-utc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="2448" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWlyluoEkRUHGSyFFPuLBC6dWkD0Jpv7OEAa5G_HI404yiGS41X3CucETg4-CFPczWiadC_z8zjPk8WxpEJheobBut8Sk1nHXsV3cP-seOvcrX-lMl6jwOEHt3XkHYZscBA4w613pm4w-Aj_iWcqoXVsxeWdv5aD4oxW58WMgVAkK3QjoRIDMabik720/w640-h640/blue-sky-2023-11-27-05-10-05-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I was looking for some inspiration before writing today. I individually threw out this question to my children. "Hey, I need an idea for my blog this week. Can you share any moments you have had with God lately?" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I received very similar responses. "No, nothing big going on lately."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I didn't say it had to be big. Can you tell me a moment you felt God was near to you?" Silence.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> My daughter said, "Mom, I just don't think I have as many special moments with God as you do."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I replied, "I don't think that is true. I don't think I have more moments with God; I think I might have more awareness of God. I'm always looking for God's Presence in my life."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> So this is the question I leave you with this week. Do you think God is always active in your life? I honestly believe God cares about all the details of our lives. Big and little moments, He's there.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> As my children get older, I don't know everything about their lives. I only know the parts they share with me. I wonder if, on some level, we treat God that way as well. It is as if God is on a need-to-know basis rather than realizing He knows us better than we know ourselves. God is always active in our lives. The question isn't whether He is near but whether we allow Him to be close enough to feel His breath across our face as He whispers in our ears, "My child, I love you so very much." </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-62540171067043355912024-01-27T18:22:00.000-05:002024-01-27T18:22:14.483-05:00How Clear Is Your Vision?<p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphenpNeZU_3D98OXpYn2ip7TqscX7HR2diZRgyBY2G2k1Ns_3Nh8k0FUWhuDRqkelKneHRt7F2HW2V8Dj4q7L2mEX8SEAikucu-gozL31OJjkNT5uRiw0emArPLSx36EEcpkxD14hClGRcJ0xBHo5LiB1TIK35_aYsPtn2EsWAiNsQpLlk8T6Z9tpXe24Q/s8256/st-mary-redcliffe-church-bristol-uk-2023-11-27-05-10-16-utc.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphenpNeZU_3D98OXpYn2ip7TqscX7HR2diZRgyBY2G2k1Ns_3Nh8k0FUWhuDRqkelKneHRt7F2HW2V8Dj4q7L2mEX8SEAikucu-gozL31OJjkNT5uRiw0emArPLSx36EEcpkxD14hClGRcJ0xBHo5LiB1TIK35_aYsPtn2EsWAiNsQpLlk8T6Z9tpXe24Q/w640-h426/st-mary-redcliffe-church-bristol-uk-2023-11-27-05-10-16-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> This morning, I let my dog outside and looked across the backyard. There was something in the yard that looked unusual to me. I asked my daughter, "What is that in the yard?" </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> "Mom, that is just a fallen tree branch with shriveled-up leaves," she answered confidently, surprised at my confusion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> "No, I don't think it is," I responded. I took my phone out of my back pocket, took a picture, and zoomed in on it. "Oh, you were right."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> "I know I was, " my daughter teased. "I don't know why you couldn't see it."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Most of us can relate to not always seeing things accurately. This thought popped into my brain while preparing for tomorrow's readings. I imagined myself sitting in my usual pew at Mass. What did I see at Mass, and how much am I missing? How visible is God to me? Am I seeing the whole picture?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> How is this same Mass viewed from heaven? I imagine it is entirely different. From heaven, our understanding will be complete and our vision clear. God will be so visibly present in each moment. Imagine seeing the graces given to the Church and to each person present. Imagine seeing all the angels and saints surrounding the altar. Seeing the Lamb of God given to the Father just for you. Envision praising God with new boldness and love. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Tomorrow, I'm going to try to see the Mass differently. I know my vision will still be limited, but what if I allow God to enlighten my heart and soul so my mind can envision more than I currently see? And, I wonder if God will teasingly tell me, "I don't know why you couldn't see it?" </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-89787869266103567732024-01-21T00:00:00.001-05:002024-01-21T00:00:00.432-05:00Stay Hungry<p> </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnE9ZoykYC-KLRFowmkh_mUSOJieozgzBf04c3Gm4nFa__jlBe9EuG5d-ceHOkLAfnsBmTJ7AsxslWh1JS3vm1AJV7juPzOdXoSQDc3qkePZqu0sBe3ESglelo2Xi5VeE9kiG1DCqtZ0HBfKpAkSZPF1FZI71kfsNRuvVz4JnvD-3faQScnCNxojZeSW8/s4500/bread-wine-and-bible-for-sacrament-or-communion-p-2023-11-27-05-11-17-utc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnE9ZoykYC-KLRFowmkh_mUSOJieozgzBf04c3Gm4nFa__jlBe9EuG5d-ceHOkLAfnsBmTJ7AsxslWh1JS3vm1AJV7juPzOdXoSQDc3qkePZqu0sBe3ESglelo2Xi5VeE9kiG1DCqtZ0HBfKpAkSZPF1FZI71kfsNRuvVz4JnvD-3faQScnCNxojZeSW8/w640-h426/bread-wine-and-bible-for-sacrament-or-communion-p-2023-11-27-05-11-17-utc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p> My daughter told me a cute story I thought I would share. She had gone to Mass that day, and after receiving Holy Communion, my five-year-old granddaughter was pouting and giving my daughter a look. My daughter whispered, "What's wrong?"</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> My granddaughter answered, "It must be nice that they gave you something to eat. I didn't get anything."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Are you hungry?" my daughter asked.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Yes, I am!" my granddaughter replied.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> After Mass, my daughter got my granddaughter a snack and explained that she was receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus. This made quite an impression on my granddaughter because she excitedly told me later that day, "Did you know my Mom received Jesus' body and blood today?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I wanted to share this story because sometimes we take the Eucharist for granted. The Eucharist is such an incredible gift! We may no longer allow our childhood wonder to amaze us. We forget to approach the altar hungry for our Lord. It is easy to fill our stomachs and intellect, but our soul is starving to be reunited with Jesus. We allow our bodies and minds to voice their needs, yet we are deaf to the cries of our souls.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I want to offer some advice. Listen to the inner voice of your soul. It is crying out for love. A love that cannot be found on earth. A love so strong that it destroyed death and opened the doors of heaven wide open. Allow your soul to hunger for the Lord and beg the Father to give you this day, your daily bread.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-91721771978388267312024-01-13T16:04:00.001-05:002024-01-13T21:13:54.541-05:00God's Stuff<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCn_unf4r6NnyDskwh9otCqKmlN6TB4Yri2q8fHxZ5JNZOU6MjLcnSluFr9nY4AQoKQVjVOrWisbZHmpdTBl04VxRxlJqlSBJU_lWOfdj2GTZBr3KZrZi6YX05IxYYONY3GnTLkRY16cZS0V-MmkqXIzC-zF5Ee46qIkDAoj_vEc_vrDpjOomjHuznOU/s4032/IMG_1201.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCn_unf4r6NnyDskwh9otCqKmlN6TB4Yri2q8fHxZ5JNZOU6MjLcnSluFr9nY4AQoKQVjVOrWisbZHmpdTBl04VxRxlJqlSBJU_lWOfdj2GTZBr3KZrZi6YX05IxYYONY3GnTLkRY16cZS0V-MmkqXIzC-zF5Ee46qIkDAoj_vEc_vrDpjOomjHuznOU/w480-h640/IMG_1201.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I received a wonderful little surprise just before Christmas. One of my children's friends came over with a gift for me. He had recently visited Poland and brought me a picture of St. John Paul II. He told me he had noticed the religious things around my house and thought I would like it. I was really touched by his thoughtfulness. Later, I showed my new souvenir to my other kids. I repeated the conversation and said, "Can you believe he noticed my religious pictures? He hasn't been to the house that many times."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> My children started laughing, "Mom, everyone notices your religious pictures. They are everywhere and in every room."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Well, no one has ever made a comment to me before," I added.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> My daughter, still laughing, said, "Yeah, one person even told me, "Wow, you have a lot of God stuff!"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I took that as a total compliment. "Oh, I like the thought of living in a house with God's stuff!"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Of course, I know that a house with God's stuff would not be a collection of things. It would be a house where people were loved unconditionally. A place of patience, forgiveness, and understanding. A home dedicated to hard work, sacrifice, and moments of peace and prayer. It would be the domestic church.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> God knows my little domestic church is far from perfect, but we do have moments of holiness. I wish there were more of them. It is definitely something to strive for in the new year. Could the challenge be a little smaller? Yes, but looking back at my life, I can see how my faith grew in challenging and complex moments. Perhaps God gave me this family because these individuals will help me become a saint, and in turn, I will help them. We're not perfect, but I look forward to filling my house with God's "stuff" as we continue the journey toward heaven.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><br /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-48413950998417849222024-01-07T00:00:00.003-05:002024-01-07T00:00:00.149-05:00An Epiphany You Can Trust<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrStBliiIX9tsbPG3DFqKyQxwOzcRqPVydnG9aF9AY5KcBNCTHR43F_Et95-vEoyCaQyeaeBR6MlIs7oGR3fqOqJMXUqXzGxKq8q8H4k0E_n5OZeQ6PAN5t46jcd8GMDQ_exCSvI_MQL1QrZtdpEwWgjwvYV5cZqqSDeMn3mgm1exMn-1z9CWM0WyHcIE/s2118/Screenshot%202024-01-05%20at%2011.33.52%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1292" data-original-width="2118" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrStBliiIX9tsbPG3DFqKyQxwOzcRqPVydnG9aF9AY5KcBNCTHR43F_Et95-vEoyCaQyeaeBR6MlIs7oGR3fqOqJMXUqXzGxKq8q8H4k0E_n5OZeQ6PAN5t46jcd8GMDQ_exCSvI_MQL1QrZtdpEwWgjwvYV5cZqqSDeMn3mgm1exMn-1z9CWM0WyHcIE/w640-h388/Screenshot%202024-01-05%20at%2011.33.52%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="640" /></a></div> <p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> One night in early December, I walked my dog through the neighborhood. I absolutely fell in love with this manger scene. It was so beautiful. I made a habit of walking by it, especially at night. Awkwardly, I would stop and stare and wonder.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Everyone in that scene had traveled far and trusted God with each step. The birthplace of Christ was a surprise to everyone. No one knew the game plan. As each door was closed in his face, Joseph trusted that God would leave one door open. Mary followed Joseph to a stable, trusting that her son's birth would occur as God had intended. Three men dropped everything, trusting this star would lead them to the newborn King.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Even today, the path to Jesus can surprise and challenge us. Jesus calls us to come closer. However, our feet will not have to travel great distances; instead, it is a journey for our hearts. God has placed signs and symbols and people to light the path. We only need to allow our trust in God to open our eyes to realize He is standing beside us. Come adore the newborn King. The angels are still singing, Christ's Light is just as bright, and we only need to trust that God will direct all our steps. Go ahead, trust God. This has always been His Plan for you. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan <br /></span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-62041426328647066402023-12-31T00:00:00.001-05:002023-12-31T00:00:00.325-05:00Reflecting God's Love<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HK07gd43JamOrCPikKGn9352ofjsfUS7OO9eMpt1tjvivq9iLXciuhM7InqG4iL6IdkvLHqfnD_1QHynIscMzmmsF6pqhuHOyXz5zV-Rf41wuRsTaRNktm8yUsgdEvef8MKlh3FUdydze0nevbyqLPnUM_Jvr97fm3get6B21QRg717fUr-wnvNg0LM/s4032/IMG_1503.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HK07gd43JamOrCPikKGn9352ofjsfUS7OO9eMpt1tjvivq9iLXciuhM7InqG4iL6IdkvLHqfnD_1QHynIscMzmmsF6pqhuHOyXz5zV-Rf41wuRsTaRNktm8yUsgdEvef8MKlh3FUdydze0nevbyqLPnUM_Jvr97fm3get6B21QRg717fUr-wnvNg0LM/w480-h640/IMG_1503.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> <span style="font-size: large;"> During the Christmas season, I enjoy watching a movie on the Nativity of Christ. Most of the films are well done. But I have to admit, I am often uncomfortable with how Mary can be portrayed. There is always something off about her character. I have even been known to say aloud, "Mary would never say that, or she would never have done that." I have even stopped watching movies because they do not do Mary justice. It may seem I'm claiming to be an expert on Mary, but I will admit I'm not. However, I do know Mary. She is the most wonderful, caring mother I have ever met, and I love her dearly.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> It is difficult for an actress to demonstrate Mary's most extraordinary qualities. Mary's humility, love for God, and obedience to His Will are unmatched. Her holiness is so beautiful because she magnifies God's love to all. When I sit with Mary, I feel God's love. Mary never comes between me and God; she always nudges me closer. The thought that Jesus would share His Mother with me is a blessing beyond comprehension. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> This truly is a beautiful time of the year to reflect on the birth of our Savior, followed by such intimate feasts as the Feast of the Holy Family and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. May the love of the Christ child shine brightly in your lives. As we gaze at Jesus lying in the manger, do not overlook the loving gaze He gives Mary and Joseph.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-80277049437613496412023-12-24T00:00:00.002-05:002023-12-24T00:00:00.278-05:00Merry Christmas!<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBE2id19noIkMYvxFCT2-Azxnp5_xKoWSPOtV8Ruu5_Keqf0q0Q3go7f2JnNv2DFwd_JF08q0FbQvP_aP_KxL_O_373_RoE7BaO1xizMSETdqOVuy3UTrTHHeH_CThlD3suP6dr3yY_9OFBToNebn5jQWD-PUhtFotoBKe8mKdyHqXQHu7FWDQf1FxTU/s1462/Screenshot%202023-12-23%20at%209.18.19%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1462" data-original-width="1158" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBE2id19noIkMYvxFCT2-Azxnp5_xKoWSPOtV8Ruu5_Keqf0q0Q3go7f2JnNv2DFwd_JF08q0FbQvP_aP_KxL_O_373_RoE7BaO1xizMSETdqOVuy3UTrTHHeH_CThlD3suP6dr3yY_9OFBToNebn5jQWD-PUhtFotoBKe8mKdyHqXQHu7FWDQf1FxTU/w506-h640/Screenshot%202023-12-23%20at%209.18.19%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="506" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-size: large;">As I played with my grandchildren this past week, I was filled with many memorable little moments. Hot chocolate with whipped cream, trees covered in lights, and making Christmas cookies. However, my favorite moment came while we were playing Barbies. My granddaughter handed me a doll and said, "Here you are, Mary's Mom."</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Oh, I'm St. Anne?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Was that Mary's mom's name?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Yes."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I'm going to be Mary. I need to put something under Mary's dress to make her look like she is pregnant with Jesus." Once Mary was ready, she yelled, "Joseph, hurry up, we got to go before it's too late." Joseph, formally known as Malibu Ken, was quickly at Mary's side in his bathing suit. My granddaughter had Mary and Joseph walking until she looked up at me and said, "How do you think Jesus was born?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I smiled at my five-year-old granddaughter and said, "I think it was a special miracle."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> She nodded and said, "I think so too."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I tell this story because I wish you all a Merry Christmas, and I hope you take the time to marvel over the birth of the Christ Child. I spent that same night praying next to my own manger figurines. I imagined what it would have been like for Mary and Joseph to see the face of God for the very first time. It must have been incredible to touch His little fingers and toes and gaze into His eyes. No presents. Just His Presence, which was the fulfillment of every hope and prayer that was ever uttered. Life on earth would never be the same. One little baby, Jesus, would change everything. From this day forward, humanity would not only be touched by God but would be able to touch God. The birth of Jesus was indeed miraculous!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Merry Christmas!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-34702707663392781932023-12-16T14:04:00.001-05:002023-12-16T14:04:19.338-05:00Adding a Little Gloss to Advent (Part 3 of 3)<p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8ku5k0lmCWI31UM3q2fVoZsDNgIfcLAqpzG96QRybRhvjccWKIpnKqDfi7FT14fQ_JtUebqIJVCevvI5uqK_RVbvtpHVA6W-AUw7DPdhXjDYYP-A4iLGG19yNJ9SDQF1GY5fYDhO3vOOgtoIrm9m0Rs05YZ1pVwNh7EYUXdIIimnmWImmG3fCJI2J3g/s1696/Screenshot%202023-12-16%20at%201.47.52%E2%80%AFPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="1696" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8ku5k0lmCWI31UM3q2fVoZsDNgIfcLAqpzG96QRybRhvjccWKIpnKqDfi7FT14fQ_JtUebqIJVCevvI5uqK_RVbvtpHVA6W-AUw7DPdhXjDYYP-A4iLGG19yNJ9SDQF1GY5fYDhO3vOOgtoIrm9m0Rs05YZ1pVwNh7EYUXdIIimnmWImmG3fCJI2J3g/w640-h344/Screenshot%202023-12-16%20at%201.47.52%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Lilly sat down at her usual table in the cafeteria for lunch. Most of her friends were already there talking about something (or probably someone ) in hushed voices. Lilly set down her pizza and pop before leaning into the conversation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Did you even see what she was wearing today?"</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Emily said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Commonly, Lilly would have immediately asked who they were talking about, but she decided to eat her pizza and not join the conversation. Her friends continued to give their unpleasant opinions about the original person and then moved on to others. Lilly had managed to eat her entire lunch before the conversation was turned to her.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Lilly, why are you being so quiet? By the way, I noticed your new lip gloss today. That color is good on you, " said Eva.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Olivia, Lilly's best friend, answered immediately. "Lilly's grandma bought her the new Advent lip gloss set we were all talking about last week, but Lilly had to promise not to talk crap about people while she was wearing it."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "You are so lucky your Grandma bought that for you. By the time I got to the store, they were sold out. Anyways, who cares about what you promised your Grandma? It's not like she can hear our conversations. It's not like she is God," replied Eva. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I know," began Lilly, "But that's the point. I made a promise, and I'll know I didn't keep it, and God will, too."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Lilly, are you serious right now? Nobody keeps their promises anymore if they are not going to get caught. What are you so worried about, girl?" Emily asked.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Because when I pray tonight, I'm going to feel embarrassed because I didn't keep my word," Lilly said, feeling stupid. Was she really talking about praying in front of everyone at the table?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Do you really think God cares if you kept a promise to your Grandma? Look at what's going on in the world. I think God has much bigger problems, " Eva answered.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Lilly suddenly felt an inner urge to speak. "Ya, I'm sure He does, but I also think he cares about me and what's going on in my life. What am I supposed to say, 'Hey God, you know how you made all those people in my school, and you love them all. Well, I don't, and I'm just going to make fun of them because I can't help myself?' That sounds like a dumb prayer to me." </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Olivia tried to come to her friend's defense. "That does sound dumb when you say it out loud."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Eva looked at Lilly. "Do you really still pray every night?" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Lilly replied, "Yes, of course I do. Doesn't everyone?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Not me," Regan replied. "I don't have the time."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Olivia started laughing. "The girl who knows every person's TikTok post doesn't have time. I wonder why? Ok, let's help Lilly out. How about we agree not to talk about anyone at the lunch table until after Christmas. Agree? There are plenty of other things we could be talking about."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Lilly smiled at Olivia. "Thanks." Olivia smiled back before changing the subject to her Christmas list.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">A few days before Christmas, Grandma stopped by the house to make Christmas cookies. "You look pretty today. Lilly." Grandma said when Lilly walked into the kitchen.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Thanks, Grandma. This is the best color lip gloss so far."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I think it's more than just your lip gloss," Grandma said with a smile.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Hey, Grandma, I've been trying really hard to keep your promise about being more kind. But I have to admit that it has been a lot harder than I thought it would be. I've screwed up a few times."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Grandma laughed, "Well, haven't we all. God doesn't expect us to be perfect but is pleased when we try."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Well, I have been trying Grandma. I even got my friends to try, too. I never would have guessed that lip gloss would make me brave enough to talk about God with my friends." Lilly shook her head, "It probably wasn't the lip gloss at all. I think it had more to do with visiting the Blessed Sacrament and praying. I feel closer to God."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Grandma smiled, and her eyes glistened with held-back tears. "From your lips to my heart, Lilly. You have definitely grown more beautiful this Advent."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><br /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-68164518920409880122023-12-10T00:00:00.013-05:002023-12-10T00:00:00.201-05:00Adding A Little Gloss to Advent (Chapter 2 of 3)<p> </p><p> <span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeO3MHB_pI2TxKcmakl-S6_f-88YFF-83EZobW8GwMGWuEKHEFr_GtcHsdQ3dZxwfzopcopTUCGucQYh8dE9H0cVUweQdilKlX1aXe2kINhQ2_IVuxfZx8xF64rPtJ224JoeCfFo02BsXCeHpASo9lbTtPBdxngMK6FVUHXLUj6t_2wyMO5_NkH0XaLs/s1910/Screenshot%202023-12-09%20at%208.47.26%E2%80%AFPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1910" height="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeO3MHB_pI2TxKcmakl-S6_f-88YFF-83EZobW8GwMGWuEKHEFr_GtcHsdQ3dZxwfzopcopTUCGucQYh8dE9H0cVUweQdilKlX1aXe2kINhQ2_IVuxfZx8xF64rPtJ224JoeCfFo02BsXCeHpASo9lbTtPBdxngMK6FVUHXLUj6t_2wyMO5_NkH0XaLs/w640-h469/Screenshot%202023-12-09%20at%208.47.26%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Lilly jumped into her Grandma's car and headed for the church. As they pulled into the parking lot, Lilly reached into her pocket. "Oh no, I think my rosary fell out of my pocket. It's not here," confessed Lilly.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Would you like to use mine?" Grandma offered.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "What are you going to use then?" Lilly wondered.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Oh, I don't always pray the Rosary before the Blessed Sacrament. Sometimes, I talk to Jesus from my heart; sometimes, I sit in His Presence and try to listen. I like just being near to Him."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Really? I always thought you had to say a specific prayer. Hmm, maybe I'll talk to Him from my heart today," Lilly replied as she and Grandma walked into the small chapel. Lilly sat down and looked around. She was a little surprised there weren't more people there. Lilly turned her focus to the monstrance as she allowed her heart to take over. Then she closed her eyes and became conscious of each breath she took. As she breathed in, she silently prayed, "Jesus, I believe you are here with me."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> After a few minutes, Lilly opened her eyes and noticed two pictures behind the altar. One picture was the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the other was Mary holding Jesus in her arms. Lilly remembered her Grandma's words from yesterday. "Ask Mary what she did to prepare for the coming of Jesus."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> For a few minutes, Lilly just wondered. "Mary, did you spend much time just wondering what it would be like to hold God in your arms? Could you feel Baby Jesus' heart beating inside you? What would it be like to be that close to God? What would it be like to know God depended on you to bring Jesus to the world?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Lilly closed her eyes and wondered for a while. Interiorly, she felt her questions being redirected toward herself. "What does it feel like to be so close to Me, Lilly? Do you not feel me?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">"Of course I do. I just..." Lilly didn't finish her sentence.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "You just what?" the Voice questioned.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "How come it's so easy for me to forget you are always with me?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "That's a good question. I never leave you, you know." the Voice answered.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span> "If you aren't the one who leaves, then it's because I leave. A tear slid down Lilly's cheek. "Why is it so easy for me to forget about you? " Lilly sat with her own question for a few minutes, feeling uncomfortable and foolish. "I don't have any good answers for that one. I'm sorry. </span><span>I guess it's good that you asked Mary to bring you into the world, not me," Lilly said, staring straight at the monstrance.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Lilly, Mary's role was very different, but I have asked you to bring me into the world. Bring me into your world and the people you encounter every day. Speak my words. Be my Voice."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> As Lilly brought her folded hand close to her face, she felt the gloss of her new lipstick touch her hands. She looked at the glossy sheen on her hand. Lilly remembered the promise she had made to her Grandma. "Ok Jesus, my lips are yours," Lilly promised as a small smile spread.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">(To be continued...)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><br /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-60790045077536332732023-12-03T00:00:00.003-05:002023-12-03T00:00:00.145-05:00Adding a Little Gloss To Advent (Chapter 1 of 3)<p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdGdmkQc5HLiU1NTkCBVSd-Q0MZ6Z44DERVa4jUeiQBvAL7WdfCQWtmn8UwjZJuYIpMS7IugoTsGTKNCP34EdjG0SrmXTOhiE13U0BX_Bhj6ENwYPTnUQsMLnLDZ8PlW6DTCQh0RaGkgA6S8i03stauS3FlGZxRzgfzOEkM47vRrKY_f547Crj9igGbYg/s7360/beautiful-teen-girl-leaning-on-hand-with-christmas-2023-11-27-05-16-00-utc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4912" data-original-width="7360" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdGdmkQc5HLiU1NTkCBVSd-Q0MZ6Z44DERVa4jUeiQBvAL7WdfCQWtmn8UwjZJuYIpMS7IugoTsGTKNCP34EdjG0SrmXTOhiE13U0BX_Bhj6ENwYPTnUQsMLnLDZ8PlW6DTCQh0RaGkgA6S8i03stauS3FlGZxRzgfzOEkM47vRrKY_f547Crj9igGbYg/w400-h268/beautiful-teen-girl-leaning-on-hand-with-christmas-2023-11-27-05-16-00-utc.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Lilly and her Grandma were pulling into the outdoor mall's parking lot. "Grandma, can we start at the big department store first? There is an Advent calendar I really want to get. I want to see if it's on sale."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Oh, I would happily buy that for you, Lilly. Why don't you show me which one."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Grandma, you are the best!" Lilly responded. Lilly led Grandma through the cosmetic section. "Oh my gosh," Lilly exclaimed, "They have it!" Lilly excitedly handed the gift box to her Grandma.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Grandma look very confused, "Lilly, I don't understand. "What does this set of lip gloss have to do with Advent?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Grandma, look, there are 15 different shades of lip gloss. I could wear a different one every day up until Christmas. Then, I will know my favorite on Christmas day, and I'll be ready!"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Lilly, I don't mean to hurt your feelings, but I think you are completely missing the point of Advent. Advent is about preparing yourself for the coming of Jesus."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Well, I could wear the lipgloss when I go to church on Sunday." Lilly looked at her Grandma's expression and set the gift box down. " I guess you don't want to buy it for me anymore."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Let me think about it. Lilly. How about you help me pick Christmas presents for the family first?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Sure, that's fine," Lilly said, dripping with disappointment.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> An hour and a half later, Lilly and her Grandma found an empty table at the food court and sat down to refuel. "You know Lilly," Grandma began, "I've been thinking about that lip gloss set. At first, I thought it had nothing to do with Advent, but maybe I was wrong."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Really?" Lilly said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "I'll buy you that set on two conditions. First, I want you to visit the Blessed Sacrament with me tomorrow. I'm going to bring my Rosary. Let's ask Mary what she did to prepare for the coming of Jesus. You know she was about the same age as you. Second, you must promise me that you will only speak kind words when wearing your lip gloss. That may help get both your heart and lips to shine through Advent. What do you think? Do we have a deal?"</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> "Yes!" Lilly answered. Lilly smiled at her Grandma, thinking how easy this would be. Grandma smiled back, wondering if she was asking too much from her granddaughter.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">(to be continued...)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-56253476022194006962023-11-25T10:16:00.001-05:002023-11-25T10:16:10.808-05:00My King<p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_F2_N3cupTJLdyGmuGJHrsuvwDTz6dV6-bycHe80iVgSUFHcLu1A1Cb4wYJylHX948QDWQZnMmWc4dpNdXo5aypIsDCghQk2quCftmzKtedhoBcZPm_oYX2NMxyi77OK8Pi5kvj_6vHz5Z4GOvORMl-eJWj4MbWTncTyI4MKU8sR4XLsAk1Ni2AYU1k/s6240/the-famous-neuschwanstein-castle-with-the-alps-in-2022-06-14-19-09-48-utc.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_F2_N3cupTJLdyGmuGJHrsuvwDTz6dV6-bycHe80iVgSUFHcLu1A1Cb4wYJylHX948QDWQZnMmWc4dpNdXo5aypIsDCghQk2quCftmzKtedhoBcZPm_oYX2NMxyi77OK8Pi5kvj_6vHz5Z4GOvORMl-eJWj4MbWTncTyI4MKU8sR4XLsAk1Ni2AYU1k/w640-h427/the-famous-neuschwanstein-castle-with-the-alps-in-2022-06-14-19-09-48-utc.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> <span style="font-size: large;"> I remember traveling in Germany down the romantic road. It is a road scattered with castles and picturesque Bavarian towns. It was fun to imagine what life would be like inside the castle walls. Where did the king and queen spend most of their time? I wondered if the fortress-like walls around the kingdom made the people feel safe or trapped.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I have only met one King in my lifetime. He is the King of heaven and earth. He is my Savior. He is Jesus the Nazarene. He rules without any walls, inviting all to His Kingdom. I may visit Him any day my heart desires. I know where He lives and dines, for I hear His voice calling me to the supper of the Lamb. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I know I am unworthy to draw so close to my King, yet He embraces me, cleansing my heart to receive Him. I bow before my good and loving King as He bestows graces upon me that I do not deserve but so desperately need. I am free to love him or leave Him, which seems absurd. This all-knowing, all-loving King is preparing a place for me. A place more magnificent than I could ever imagine, and all I need to do is love Him. Honestly, why would loving Him even be hard?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-49825998118894046492023-11-19T00:00:00.005-05:002023-11-19T00:00:00.146-05:00The Spirit of Thanksgiving<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYLypGe8ePRrJi2N-Ugi_z3tu81py0QN55Oh6LDS4KvezQqk-S42nH-2V0a1Z2epNa9RtAG5kJywypfDUzyKaAtjNyyD9nFHgteWHTw8JdPMPPMauv0v8ID4olHeBVOSIxqkJ-Vttp1roRYvGZPUfCdGN-lkqqD-1HGyKWsdh4RJc-iWuPiw-abzczWs/s4032/IMG_9260.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYLypGe8ePRrJi2N-Ugi_z3tu81py0QN55Oh6LDS4KvezQqk-S42nH-2V0a1Z2epNa9RtAG5kJywypfDUzyKaAtjNyyD9nFHgteWHTw8JdPMPPMauv0v8ID4olHeBVOSIxqkJ-Vttp1roRYvGZPUfCdGN-lkqqD-1HGyKWsdh4RJc-iWuPiw-abzczWs/w480-h640/IMG_9260.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> <span style="font-size: large;"> This week, we celebrate Thanksgiving! I like the simplicity of Thanksgiving. We gather with family and friends and thank God for the blessings in our lives. We don't have to buy any gifts. No oversized cartoon turkey is sneaking into the house and leaving presents. There is just looking at your life and telling God thank you. Sure, the world tried to turn Thanksgiving into the hurry-up and end holiday so we can get to a Black Friday sale. And that was almost successful until the world discovered Black Friday sales could start in July. Fortunately, Thanksgiving was saved.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> The spirit of Thanksgiving speaks to our childhood trust in God. Many of us go around the table counting our blessings like a seven-year-old child. No one questions if we deserve these blessings. We believe that God loves us and is active in our lives. I wished we had that type of clarity at every meal. No matter how many bad days we may have had in the past year, we can still see how much God loves us.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Jesus, I trust that you will continue to walk with me each day. Continue to bless me even when I am oblivious to Your actions. I may not be good at noticing the day-to-day stuff, but each year, I realize You are faithful and good to me, and I am truly thankful.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Have a blessed Thanksgiving!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><br /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-62631583487634899322023-11-12T00:00:00.004-05:002023-11-12T08:34:52.356-05:00One-On-One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8S4dlfWxOQZKmNBS6oVmbtY3ROEBGHSwyhEmTEt0gdeYf136aAhJ8qDzD5jkGGMY_6LXtzzZEHP5h-ljPnJL-ZBXVEcguYWPI6_glVrIwPiVKEs7rlyiOwrAycqxKqOIREnh8f70sxkDXDdEd8E1Sob3v-ppB0HMycNRIwFDZfC8TSXPLp8u-3bp9dXs/s6331/wooden-arched-door-of-church-with-engraving-of-the-2023-02-03-23-11-52-utc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6331" data-original-width="4221" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8S4dlfWxOQZKmNBS6oVmbtY3ROEBGHSwyhEmTEt0gdeYf136aAhJ8qDzD5jkGGMY_6LXtzzZEHP5h-ljPnJL-ZBXVEcguYWPI6_glVrIwPiVKEs7rlyiOwrAycqxKqOIREnh8f70sxkDXDdEd8E1Sob3v-ppB0HMycNRIwFDZfC8TSXPLp8u-3bp9dXs/w426-h640/wooden-arched-door-of-church-with-engraving-of-the-2023-02-03-23-11-52-utc.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> My two-year-old granddaughter was spending the day with me. Shortly after lunch, she fell asleep. When she woke up from her short nap, she was surprised that the neighbor across the street had put up three pretty Christmas trees. Her eyes got wide as she exclaimed, "Christmas trees! We have to put up our Christmas decorations!" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> I looked at the pumpkins on my porch and said, "I'm not ready for that yet. I've got some cleaning up to do first."</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Before you pull out the Christmas decorations this year, mark a special day on your calendar. Concentrate on your soul first. Plan for a Jesus and me day. Pick a day to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation before your calendar gets too full. Let's face it: you could use more one-on-one time with Jesus. He's ready and waiting for you. Open the Reconciliation door and feel His embrace. Stay close to Christ! It's the best way to start the season.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-90060936563294225882023-11-02T00:00:00.001-04:002023-11-02T00:00:00.161-04:00Last Moments<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1uuq-B3iwKiosLEPZC7TLeaaznOehPh9A7-c0ypX9Ru2A3jWv4Gnn2SwAkNNofYnNtyTzL0jUiTJt7PJiDfatlrernvZ6AwZyDbfIzeinjy4MSfqVK_TtfnVwK_jWh7Rax18UgJMZT8LIXV54X7jCqKoYBwa95nabCqfpUMo0shh9ziGPMgGp7aXNG4/s1630/Screenshot%202023-11-01%20at%2012.46.20%20PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1630" data-original-width="1406" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1uuq-B3iwKiosLEPZC7TLeaaznOehPh9A7-c0ypX9Ru2A3jWv4Gnn2SwAkNNofYnNtyTzL0jUiTJt7PJiDfatlrernvZ6AwZyDbfIzeinjy4MSfqVK_TtfnVwK_jWh7Rax18UgJMZT8LIXV54X7jCqKoYBwa95nabCqfpUMo0shh9ziGPMgGp7aXNG4/w552-h640/Screenshot%202023-11-01%20at%2012.46.20%20PM.png" width="552" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Just before the end of their days, the leaves burst into brilliant colors. After revealing their inner beauty, they fall gracefully to the ground. The tree silently waits for a new beginning.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> In our last moments, will we experience a burst of color as we reveal our inner beauty to the Creator? No longer green, our growing season as a disciple of Christ has ended. Our roots and family branches wait to be buried in the earth’s soil as our soul is exposed before our God. Will our true colors be that of faithfulness and love?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Let us pray that God’s mercy allows us to be purified for The Kingdom in that moment. Let us also pray for those in the process of purification. May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen. </span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></div>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-401325669871834522023-11-01T00:00:00.001-04:002023-11-01T00:00:00.156-04:00Strive For Holiness<p> </p><p><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUxv0oNXxc2JaOO6ixjZPj8-HmXJF_s7HerYMK81oAq0tIzaw74DrQEqUgAIXYZzK7UVTJmJ7CSNOoagUwf49MlmFhxFPK89sSkxH2oVx935OvSb2xBZHBavkAbNc1p0-ZB60yrkpoxcZMYZu4ETzQHLdvCuqePVMXyNZce5xaEJ94Zat5Jdljus6vQA/s2184/Screenshot%202023-10-31%20at%205.57.42%20PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1644" data-original-width="2184" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUxv0oNXxc2JaOO6ixjZPj8-HmXJF_s7HerYMK81oAq0tIzaw74DrQEqUgAIXYZzK7UVTJmJ7CSNOoagUwf49MlmFhxFPK89sSkxH2oVx935OvSb2xBZHBavkAbNc1p0-ZB60yrkpoxcZMYZu4ETzQHLdvCuqePVMXyNZce5xaEJ94Zat5Jdljus6vQA/w640-h482/Screenshot%202023-10-31%20at%205.57.42%20PM.png" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Today is All Saints Day! It is a beautiful feast day where we celebrate with all those people who led lives dedicated to God. Their life stories are incredible. If you are looking for a good read whose main character is a compassionate, courageous, selfless, evil-fighting warrior, open a book on any one of the saints and be amazed. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Although we are all called to be saints, I wonder how many of us actually think it’s obtainable? Is it like the lottery? I could do so many good things if I won, but the odds are against me. I’m not even going to buy a ticket. But I’m here to tell you that you should do everything possible to strive for holiness and sainthood. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> First, the odds are entirely in your favor because God wants you to become a saint. He desires that so much that He is willing to shower you with graces upon graces to make it happen. Day or night, God is there for you. He gives His own body to strengthen us. We have His playbook that has thousands of His own personal thoughts and helpful hints. And He gave us each other. We can help each other to become saints! Come on, people, let’s do this! Set your sights higher than the lottery. Everyone call upon your favorite saint, and let’s join them in doing so many good things!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;"> -Susan</span></span><br style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;" /></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-86669225090493979442023-10-29T00:00:00.004-04:002023-10-29T07:50:00.313-04:00DISALLUSIONED BY DEMONS?<p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8aRgN96WbMJNH4i7ESwFSY5hTf3a8bwWnTvT-wXp-0P5n4jxCvd-AN0bLWHaTwI0VQ2b8ehW7So7hvj60eb19749RRbY61XJKPpl9qOIBTZbJwPE3CXdyZ7po2RSzngu9Z6aND7N27ktwHXAf92J4lviAXTNVGKuMR9NurChPL63oyCoebpTVbcsKvlQ/s1744/Screenshot%202023-10-28%20at%207.50.52%20PM.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1632" data-original-width="1744" height="596" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8aRgN96WbMJNH4i7ESwFSY5hTf3a8bwWnTvT-wXp-0P5n4jxCvd-AN0bLWHaTwI0VQ2b8ehW7So7hvj60eb19749RRbY61XJKPpl9qOIBTZbJwPE3CXdyZ7po2RSzngu9Z6aND7N27ktwHXAf92J4lviAXTNVGKuMR9NurChPL63oyCoebpTVbcsKvlQ/w640-h596/Screenshot%202023-10-28%20at%207.50.52%20PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> <span style="font-size: large;">It's that time of year when walking down your neighborhood street can make you feel like you are in the middle of a horror story. As I take my daily walk praying the Rosary, I can't help but feel all those demons are trying to distract me. And to be honest, they have caught my eye. Some decorations are fun, but plenty are disturbing. I wonder if they realize how many families with children are in the neighborhood.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> As you might guess, I'm not into horror stories. I did, however, recently pick up a book about spiritual warfare. I was almost afraid to read it because exorcisms scare me. Still, I fear there are too many demons plaguing our society and families. I wanted to know how to protect my children and grandchildren. I wondered if I was strong enough for such a task.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Fortunately, the book concentrates more on the interior life of those in our families. How can we help each other strive for holiness? What weapons should we use to fight the demons around us? Not surprisingly, many of the answers focused on the Eucharist and Mary. 'The Rosary is a powerful weapon against evil.'</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> So, am I strong enough to fight the demons in the world? Not by myself. But I know who my Father is. I am a child of God. My soul is marked by the waters of Baptism. The Holy Spirit dwells in me, I am fortified by the body and blood of Christ, and I am consecrated to Mary. The battle is waging all around me and my family. It is my job to fight. With my Rosary in my hand, I'm ready to fight the good fight. Can I count on your help as well? </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Susan</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-526538136274874944.post-68103208434412083302023-10-21T13:58:00.000-04:002023-10-21T13:58:17.918-04:00Praying For Peace<p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUIr5L-COZnRAqrp61DWQTaNHNtH3UcHsLvQ-_kS8_dlbJZd1aqE_mW1Ecu6C3DmEDfSpQ-weWDiZse5olGtsEpcIczB0mK6edrBM616AO6h4jDvHXE0j_hyphenhyphenufjGSzyyT3PAtrx5qAFXSSTnMHG75lg_POOkqYuMCb88RtLkr54mjhG4VRVGYIGDXJPg/s1628/Screenshot%202023-10-21%20at%2011.47.40%20AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1628" data-original-width="1432" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUIr5L-COZnRAqrp61DWQTaNHNtH3UcHsLvQ-_kS8_dlbJZd1aqE_mW1Ecu6C3DmEDfSpQ-weWDiZse5olGtsEpcIczB0mK6edrBM616AO6h4jDvHXE0j_hyphenhyphenufjGSzyyT3PAtrx5qAFXSSTnMHG75lg_POOkqYuMCb88RtLkr54mjhG4VRVGYIGDXJPg/w562-h640/Screenshot%202023-10-21%20at%2011.47.40%20AM.png" width="562" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diary of St. Faustina</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: Courgette; font-size: x-large;">Lord Jesus, </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"> On behalf of all humanity,</span><span style="font-family: Courgette;"> I want to say I am sorry. You have asked us to love one another, and we have failed. Lord Jesus, have mercy upon us all. Give us the courage and wisdom to trust your words and promises. May the peace of Christ change our world.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Courgette; font-size: x-large;">-Susan</span></p>Dwelling. With The Spirithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13741499739879804668noreply@blogger.com0