Faithful To The End

 

   Recently, my daughter and I were watching the morning news. One of the stories was titled "Frozen yogurt is back." They showed a line that wrapped around a city block, with people waiting to buy the tasty treat.  My daughter and I looked at each other and said, "When did eating frozen yogurt go out of style? And why is this national news?" We live in a world where everyone follows the latest trend, but I wonder why people are always searching for something new. What is wrong with sticking with something for the long haul? Is being a good disciple difficult because we can't fully commit to God's Plan in His timing?

  I was thinking about this while praying the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary. God promised to send a Savior into the world almost immediately after Adam and Eve sinned in the garden. The Savior didn't come after a week, a month, or a year of praying. Jesus didn't come until thousands of years later. Who can wait that long for a prayer to be answered? Only someone fully committed to God. We must be persistent, humble, and faithful in our prayers. 

  The world had to wait thousands of years for Mary to be born before her Son could be conceived. Elizabeth and Zachariah waited decades before their son, John, was conceived, and decades more before he announced the Messiah's coming. Simeon waited decades in the Temple to encounter the promised Messiah. Mary and Joseph prayed for days after Jesus was lost to them before He was found in the Temple. In each of these circumstances, it would have been easier if people had known when and how their prayers would be answered.

  Faithfulness is not a trend; it is a way of life. Some days are easy and joyful, while others are heart-wrenching and difficult. Trust isn't about standing in line and waiting to be rewarded with a treat. Trust means loving God and whatever He wills, because His way is always good. His ways will bring the grace and circumstances sufficient to make you a saint and allow His kingdom to reign. Faithfulness is timeless. Forget the trends; stay true and be in it for the long haul.

-Susan

(Additionally: Thank you for all your prayers for Pope Leo! Praise God for healing Him!)

United In Prayer

 

  I'm sure most of us were surprised by Pope Leo's XIV announcement of a lung nodule, surgery, and cancer diagnosis.  I want to encourage everyone to keep praying for his recovery. Cancer battles can vary in intensity.  Even when you win the battle, it can take a lot out of you. I'm no stranger to cancer.  It has come after me, my husband, my mother, and several of my siblings.  Sadly, we didn't win all the battles. Without prayer, the battle is brutally lonely and exhausting. You need Jesus to walk this road with you, and you definitely need your family rallying around you.

  I remember attending World Youth Day with my daughter in 2005. Pope John Paul II had just passed, and Pope Benedict XVI was leading the Church. It was an incredible adventure to be on a pilgrimage with a million Catholics from around the world. It was heartwarming to hear the crowds chanting "Papa! Papa!" for Pope Benedict XVI. It really hit home. Yes, we are all one family, just as God has designed.

  I can't begin to imagine how difficult being the Pope must be. The tremendous responsibility of leading flocks from different nations, languages, and customs must be overwhelming. It is difficult for any family to agree on any subject, especially in today's world. Imagine the faith, patience, holiness, and prayers required to unite all 1.4 billion of us. Yet we are all united through the Pope, through prayer, and through Jesus Christ in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. I am so grateful for God's design to unite us all.

  Together, let's continue to pray for Pope Leo, seeking Mary's intercession. May God continue to strengthen him physically, mentally, and spiritually. May this one apostolic church lift up their Father in prayer so that he may continue to lead us beyond ourselves and beyond this world into the loving arms of Jesus.

-Susan

Fire Up!

 

  I was considering buying one of those small propane fire tables for my backyard patio. I shared the idea with my sons. They didn't like the idea at first.  "We already have a fire pit.  Why do you need that?"

  "Because I never go out to build a fire for myself. It's too much work. I just want something easy I can use when I feel like sitting outside at night." They shook their heads and talked me out of it. To my surprise, they bought it for me for my birthday a few weeks later. I love it! It's easy to use, and it has become a gathering spot at night for sitting and talking. I never would have guessed a small fire would lead to some wonderful conversations.

  As I reflected on the day's blessings, I realized it's the little things that bring us together. Mary knew this when she introduced all her children to the Rosary. Praying the Rosary is a beautiful way to begin a conversation with Mary, but why stop there? Invite the Holy Spirit, family, and friends to the table, too! The more the merrier!

  If friends and family can't join you, I have another fun idea I've been using lately. Before I begin the Rosary, I ask Mary to bring a saint with her. Many saints were deeply devoted to the Rosary, and their insights can enrich our meditation. I've found this new practice exciting and engaging as I reflect on how the Rosary shaped their lives. It's also a wonderful way to begin preparing for All Saints' Day!

  I hope this suggestion gets you fired up to keep celebrating Mary and the Holy Rosary this month!

-Susan

Hello October

 

  Fall has officially arrived! The days are shorter, the nights are cooler, and the leaves are beginning to change. Pumpkin-spice everything is everywhere, alongside fresh cider and doughnuts.  October is filled with sweet treats, which is why I find it fitting that it is dedicated to Mary and the Holy Rosary. Praying the Rosary with Mary turns every day into something special and memorable. Whether my spirit is high or down in the dumps, my moments with Mary enlighten me both personally and spiritually. Sometimes I feel like Elizabeth and think, "And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" 

  I feel Mary smile and say, "Don't you know who you are? You are a child of the Most High God. I am always here for you." How incredibly blessed we all were in that moment on the cross when Jesus gave Mary to each of us.  Like John, you take Mary into your home, and it is so incredibly beautiful and life-changing; you have to share the truth of this blessing with everyone! Mary is always in our lives, whether we recognize her presence or not, but when you do, your whole life changes. Slowly, prayer by prayer, day by day, year by year, Mary reveals God's love. A love so personal and tender that God delights in its delivery through the hands of His Mother.

  This October, pick up your rosary beads in one hand and hold Mary's hand in the other. Heaven is closer than we imagine. The path to heaven is rhythmic, repetitive, and meditative, filled with moments that transform your thoughts, your heart, and your life. I would highly recommend diving into this sweet treat. Falling in love with Mary and the Rosary is an earthy adventure that lets small beads of wisdom reveal the majesty of God's love.

-Susan

Let His Light Shine

 

    I was at peace as I neared the end of my daily walk when it happened. My watch's messaging app went off. I made the mistake of reading it. The message instantly annoyed me. The path I was walking seemed to darken as I tried to manage my feelings and decide how to respond. I took a breath, said a prayer, and tried to relax and think clearly. As I looked up, I saw a bright light shining through the window. It was a clarifying moment—a sign to guide me. Follow His light. Peace will return. I walked forward, my eyes fixed on His Light.

  Small annoyances can rob us of our peace if we let them. Prayer is the best way to handle these moments. I have heard some say they don't like to bother God with little problems. I don't feel that way. If something is bothering me, I talk it over with God.  Left to my own thoughts, I often make small problems even bigger because I tend to overthink things.  I need help letting go of my anger.  I need God.  I need to slow down and allow the Holy Spirit to guide me. 

  After praying about my little situation, I reminded myself that the world can deliver both good and bad messages on my watch, but the Lord is always good.  He is my Deliverer. He is always watching over me, and if I raise my eyes, I will see His light. His light can overcome any of my dark moments.

-Susan

Keep Focused

 

  I have been blessed to travel a little in my lifetime. Letting my eyes drink in so many of God's beautiful creations inspires me to praise Him for His many gifts and reminds me of my littleness in this big world. Sunday Mass is always essential. Catholic churches come in many sizes and architectural styles. The Mass, however, is universally the same. Wherever I am, I know that during the Mass, I am at home. I love the Mass! What saddens me, though, are the distractions I sometimes encounter before the Mass.

  I am grateful for parishes with active ministries serving the community's needs. It is wonderful, but I would prefer to give these programs my full attention after Mass. I am also happy that those in the pews have close relationships with one another, but let's celebrate those friendships after Mass. Like many of you, I have a busy life. I long to spend sacred moments with the Lord away from earthly distractions. I want to stay focused on praising God, but I am weak, and my senses can be easily distracted.  I need your help to stay focused.

  The Mass is the highest form of prayer.  The Mass is a sacred time when we join our prayers with Jesus to praise and worship God the Father. Participating in the holy Mass is the most important part of our lives.  The Mass is not meant to be casual or entertaining. It is sacred time spent praising God's goodness. I am embarrassed to admit that I can let distracting thoughts interfere with the sacredness of the moment.

  I realize I need help.  Personally, I need to prepare for Mass.  I need to prepare my heart to hear God's words and receive Jesus in the Eucharist.  I need to be open to the gentle guidance of my guardian angel, who leads me to worship as in heaven.  I need to unite myself with Mary so that I may imitate her disposition and receive all the graces the Lord has prepared for me. Preparing for Mass is important to me. When I walk through the church doors and enter the sanctuary, I want to focus on the Lord. 

  I realize some of you prayer warriors don't let anything distract you. I truly admire that. But it's possible that, like me, others are being distracted as well. Help me stay focused on the sacrifice of the Mass until the final blessing and dismissal. Then we can go out together to serve the Lord, the community, and one another.

-Susan

That's A Tough Question

 

  My granddaughter loves to read.  I recently bought her a "Would You Rather" book.  The book is filled with statements that make you choose between two good things or two bad things.  Generally, the Would You Rather statements are more fun when shared with someone. For example:  Would you rather spend one day in the past or one day in the future? Would you rather have the gift of prophecy or the gift of healing?  Would you rather eat a bowl of worms or a cup of dirt? As you can see, some decisions are easier to make than others.

  We face a similar question every day of our lives.  Would you rather live for this world or for heaven?  Although the answer to this question should be obvious to Christians, I wonder whether it is easier to answer than to live it out. Let's face it, most of us are not living saintly lives.  For some reason, the pull of this world is stronger than it should be. Oddly, we spend more time making our lives comfortable than preparing for eternity. It's easier to let others live their own lives than to share the truth of the Gospels with them. How do we live for God rather than for ourselves?

  Although the pull of gravity is strong here on Earth, it is no match for the word "yes" given to the Holy Spirit. Let's begin our day by asking the Holy Spirit to replace one worldly habit with a saintly one. Ask the Holy Spirit to present you with a "Would You Rather" question and see where the conversation leads. You may be surprised by what you learn.

-Susan

Today Is Mom's Birthday!

 

A Candid Conversation

 

  A few weeks ago, I was walking my dog in the park. A young boy (maybe seven years old) approached me and asked, "What's that?" 

  I was surprised by the question as he pointed to my dog. "My dog," I answered.

  He responded, "I think it’s a cat."

  "No, he's a dog."

   "No, I think it's a cat."  Then he walked away to play on the swings.  Of course, the only natural thing to do next was to shake my head and apologize to my dog, in case he felt offended.

  Later, during prayer, this interaction interrupted my thoughts. I smiled as I recounted the story to God and said, "I was so confused that the boy would argue what was so obviously true." And that's when it hit me. How often does God have the same conversation with me? Through Jesus' teachings, God has clearly revealed the truths of the kingdom. But how often have I decided that a particular teaching was a little harsh and that what God really meant was ...

  In today's world, we often prefer to offer our own interpretations to match our expectations rather than listen to God. Let's face it, life would be easier if we weren't Catholic. It would be easier to just be good people and do what we thought was right. But Jesus calls us to be more than just good people.  We are called to be like Jesus.  This means trusting His wisdom over our own. 

  I wondered how many times I called something right when it was wrong. I'm sure the number is quite high. What began as a silly conversation with a child suddenly became a candid conversation with God. Imagine how surprised I was to realize I was the child who called a dog a cat. But instead of running for the swings, I turned to the forgiving arms of my Father.  Being Catholic isn't a walk in the park, but it is the path to salvation. Keep leading me, Lord; please keep me on the path.

-Susan

So Blessed

 

   I went up north last weekend with my sisters.  On Sunday we attended Mass together in a small town by the lake. As I knelt to pray before Mass began, I noticed the church paper on the pew in front of me.  It showed a partial image of Jesus' face.  The somewhat mysterious picture instantly drew me in.  

  My eyes saw what my heart already knew: Jesus would be present with us as we celebrate the Mass. There will be blessings upon blessings! I am so grateful that my ears hear His invitation and that my soul is allowed to praise Him. Allowing me to stand so near to Him is more than I deserve, and then He invites me to come even closer. He places His heart in my hands, hoping I will love as He loves. His generous love amazes me.

 

  I must admit, I am a slow learner and still a work in progress. But I am trying, and I am so grateful that Jesus still has hope that I could be a faithful disciple.  As I stare at His picture and imagine what the other half of His face looks like, I wonder. . . Is Jesus looking at my heart and wondering when I will fully give the other half to Him? 

-Susan

The Word

 

  "The Flight into Egypt" is only three verses in Matthew's Gospel, but I have to admit, I am fascinated by this story. Trust and obedience are central themes. Joseph receives the message from the angel that Herod plans to destroy Jesus. Joseph trusts that this message is from God and immediately wakes Mary. Mary trusts Joseph's message, and together they depart for Egypt at once. I wonder whether I would have enough trust to do the same. This got me thinking...

  Imagine an angel informed you tonight that God was being hunted down, and that it was up to you to keep the Word of God safe.  You are warned to get up immediately and begin traveling to another country. You are not told your final destination, only the initial direction. You are instructed to bring a Bible and 3 other faith-filled books you own. Beyond the Bible, what other books would help you maintain your faith and share it with others? Would you trust that God could send you a message in a dream? Would you recognize an angel speaking to you? Would you be willing to leave your home and all your plans if God asked you to? Are you prepared to defend the Word of God, no matter the cost?

  Take some time with these questions. Talk them over with God. I imagine it would be an interesting conversation.

-Susan

  

  

Hail Mary, FUll of Grace

 

  Join me today in celebrating our beautiful mother, Mary! She is the perfect disciple of Jesus. Her love for God was so complete and pure that she never allowed even a trace of sin to separate her from the Lord. Jesus honored Mary throughout His earthly life; He honored her with His final words on the cross, and then He brought Mary, body and soul, into heaven, so that we could all honor her as well!

  I imagine the joy in heaven today is beyond words, but I hope the joy in each of our hearts is, too.  Allow your love for Mary to make today special by spending a little extra time with her. She loves us so much and wants to ensure we all make it to heaven. We would be wise to ask for her advice and intercession today and every day that follows. We would be even wiser to give Mary our hearts.

  Let Mary hold our hearts in her gentle hands and remove all the impurities that impede us from loving God more. Allow Mary to place her fingerprints all over our hearts. The more we look like Mary, the closer we will be to heaven!

-Susan

Remain Faithful

 

  Once, when I was teaching my students that God always answers our prayers, a third-grader raised her hand.  She said, "That's not true.  I've been praying for my sister to get better, and she still isn't healed." My heart went out to this sweet child. When prayers are not answered as quickly as we would like, or the answer differs from our expectations, it may feel like God is not listening.  It is during these times that it is important to remain faithful and not to be discouraged. 

  While Jesus hung on the cross, many in the crowd jeered at Him, taunting Him to save Himself if He truly was the Messiah, the Son of God. The crowd wanted a spectacle-a moment of entertainment and proof. God wanted so much more. God wanted to save all humanity. Jesus shows us that we must always desire God's Will over our own, even in our darkest moments.

  Salvation for each of us is possible because of Jesus' death on the cross.  But that's not the end of the story.  That is where our stories begin. Salvation is ours if we pick up our crosses and follow Jesus.  Pain and suffering can purify us and draw us closer to the Lord.  

  What the crowd saw as Jesus hung on the cross was that He had lost everything. But God saw it quite differently. He saw His Son's love—a love so encompassing that it would soon push open the doors to heaven. God saw that death would no longer hold any power. God saw that Jesus' body, blood, soul, and divinity would be given to all who desired to be a part of a new and everlasting covenant. Seconds before Jesus took His last breath, God knew that Jesus was seconds away from victory.

  The next time your heart is heavy with a prayer that seems unanswered, remember to end your prayer with the words, "Not my will, but Yours be done." While it may feel as if we have lost everything, perhaps this moment of faithfulness is the one God is using to accomplish things beyond our comprehension. Remember, the cross is a sign of victory. Its mystery is often veiled here on earth, but its glory will shine in heaven.

-Susan

An Honest Bet

 

  One of my close friends had a habit of telling small lies. Although they thought nothing of it, I found it annoying.  One day, I asked, "Doesn't it bother you to lie to me all the time?"

  My friend seemed to think I was overreacting.  "I'm not lying.  I'm just embellishing the truth."

  Slanting the truth is common in today's world.  News, politics, advertising -everyone wants you to believe their version of the truth.  So how important is the truth?  Jesus stated that it was part of His identity.  "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

  As we journey together toward eternity,  let's carry words of truth with us. Let's love one another enough to be honest with each other. It's possible that if we keep slanting the truth, we may never reach the spiritual heights God intended for us. He has such high hopes for us. So let's set aside all the lies we carry. There is no need for them where we are going; they can only trip us up. Honesty is more valuable than we realize. Eternity is closer than we know. And His way is the only way to get you there.  You can bet your life on it.

-Susan

Just Be You

  

  This quote by St. Anthony is timeless and the perfect midsummer reflection. Go find your favorite spot, close your eyes, and relax in the Presence of God. Listen to God's voice in the breeze. Listen to Him speak your name. He is calling you. Just be still and listen. This moment is perfect not because you are, but because God's love is. God perfectly loves you. God has waited thousands of years for this exact moment to be with you. Listen as the Lord says, "I came so that (you) may have life and have it more abundantly" (John 10:10). "Remain in Me, and I will remain in you" (John 15:4). 

  Life is so good. Try to catch your reflection in God's eyes. This is the real you. This is the person created to bring God's love to the world.

-Susan

Taking The Next Step

 

  Due to northern wildfires, the unhealthy air quality turned my fun, outdoor summer days with my grandchildren into "we have to stay in the house" days. We were forced to come up with different ways to have fun. One of our activities was a scavenger-hunt clue game. It was a game I always enjoyed playing with my children when they were young. My daughter, Theresa, began writing the clues, and the fun followed. My granddaughters had to solve each clue, which led them to the next. It was fun to watch them figure out the answers. What seemed obvious at times left them bewildered and needing more insight.

  I was thinking about this later on, and noticed some similarities between this game and a life of prayer.  Please keep in mind, that I am not suggesting that God is playing games with us.  Nothing could be further from the truth. What I am suggesting, though, is that through prayer, God leads us where we need to go.  If we listen to His voice, God gently guides us from one day to the next.  It's not always easy, though.  Sometimes we just don't pick up on God's clues. We may have to go back and spend even more time in prayer to discern where God is leading us- especially if we are being led to carry a cross. Often our hearts are heavy, and our heads are down when carrying a cross, making it difficult to see where we are being led. During these times, complete trust in God is needed.

  Unfortunately, wildfires touch everyone's lives. They can be completely unexpected and beyond our control. Keep in mind, though, that God is in control.  He will never abandon us. He loves us, and with each prayer, He will guide us away from pain and danger and into His world of love and peace. Never stop praying.  Prayer purifies us and fills us with His Spirit. And if you're too tired to say another prayer or take another step, just say four small words.  Holy Spirit, help me. Let His breath fill your lungs, enlighten your mind, and clear your vision. Praying in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit is the best way to discover The Way.

-Susan

What's Your Love Story?

 

   I was praying the sorrowful mysteries this week with the Gospel of Mark. Just before Judas' betrayal, we hear the story of the woman who poured an alabaster jar of perfumed oil over Jesus' head. Jesus was deeply touched by this woman's love. But Mark tells us that many present didn't understand. They thought her generosity toward Jesus was a ridiculous waste of money. Jesus responded to their criticism with the following: "Amen, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed to the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her." (Mark 14:9)

  I sat with this for a while.  Our love for Jesus may not be understood by the world, but others' views shouldn't dictate how generously we love Him. When it comes to loving Jesus, don't hold back.  Give Him everything. One day, our stories will be told as well. Try to imagine Jesus telling others in heaven about your love for Him. I hope the story is as lavish as that of the woman with the alabaster jar.

-Susan

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