The Beloved Disciple: Trust God's Plan

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: I Love You

 

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

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

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

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

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Praise God

 

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

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

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

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Dedicated to Prayer

 

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

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

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

  "What would you like me to do next?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Jesus smiles and asks, "Which one?"

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

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

 "I will!"

-Susan

 

The Beloved Disciple-Mission Bound

 

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

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

  You nod, desperately wanting to believe it is true.   

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

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

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

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

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple:: Follow Him

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-Susan

The Beloved Disciple: Follow Me

 

(The Beloved Disciple is a Lenten series of imaginative prayer and meditation based on the life of St. John the Apostle. In his gospel, John refers to himself as the beloved disciple.  This name highlights John's close relationship with Jesus and also encourages us to see ourselves as Jesus's beloved disciple. The series invites you to put yourself in John's shoes and answer the call, "follow me.")

  Until that moment, I was floating through life.  Most days started and ended the same way.  Work was a major part of my life. I was familiar with the scriptures. I was eagerly waiting for the Messiah's coming. I did my best to keep the Commandments. I considered myself a good person. I thought that was all that was expected of me. I was wrong. God wanted so much more from me, as He does with each of us.

  It was nearing the end of just another boring day at work.  It was a day that felt like a waste of my time because very little had happened so far. Mentally, I had already checked out. I was just going through the motions when I saw Him climb into Peter and Andrew's boat. I nudged my brother James, "What's the new preacher doing in Simon's boat?"  I have to admit I was very curious. What was Jesus telling them? Then the excited screams for help and the miraculous catch of fish changed everything.

  James and I responded to this cry for help, not realizing it was an invitation. Jesus saw our attempt to help a friend in need, and as we tugged on the heavy nets of fish, Jesus was tugging at our hearts. He looked at each of us in a way no one has. Jesus looked at me, and really saw me. Then He said, "Come, follow me."

  Jesus did not seem like a stranger, but someone who knew me well. I can't explain it, but my head and heart were filled with unspoken words.  These were words my heart longed to hear.  God himself was calling me closer.  He was calling me to something more through this man named Jesus.  Does God want something more from me? I suddenly realized that just being good and following the Commandments wasn't enough. Jesus knew God's heart. How? Could  God ever reveal His heart to me? A nobody. I heard Jesus' words echo through my thoughts. "Follow Me." I was certain that Jesus knew God and that He could show me the way. I had only a moment to decide if Jesus had a better plan for my life than I did. 

  This was the day I stopped floating through life. I dropped the familiar nets that caught what I needed to survive. I decisively and firmly planted my feet on the ground, followed the footsteps of Jesus, and became a beloved disciple.  My journey can be yours, too.  Close your eyes and listen to the call He has planted in your heart.  "Follow Me." I responded, "Yes!  What will you say?"

-Susan

Ash Wednesday

 

  Today, we begin another season of Lent!  Are you ready?  So many times I hear people singing the Lenten blues, "I don't know what to give up?" And although Lent is a time of fasting and self-sacrifice, it is also a time to renew and reinvigorate our relationship with Jesus.  Growing closer to Jesus should ignite a desire in our hearts.  Jesus didn't spend three years down in the dumps, wishing Good Friday would come and go so He could get on with His life.  No.  Jesus laughed, prayed, and spent time with friends. He hoped His example of love would inspire others to a deeper understanding of the Father. Jesus' sacrifice is life-giving.  We should embrace this time, praying for a deeper understanding and commitment to God.

  This Lent, I will start a series called The Beloved Disciple.  It is the name the apostle John uses to refer to himself in his gospel.  It is also a name he hoped each of us would embrace.  John's understanding of who Jesus is began in shallow waters on the Sea of Galilee and grew throughout his life.  He could call himself the beloved disciple because, by the end of his life, he knew Jesus deep in his soul.

  This Lent, let us follow John's life as he draws near to his teacher, his friend, and our God.

Do You Trust Me (Good Friday)

 

“My heart is sorrowful,” Jesus said, “because even chosen souls do not understand the greatness of My Mercy.  Their relationship (with Me) is, in certain ways, imbued with mistrust.  Oh, how much that wounds My heart!  Remember My Passion, and if you do not believe My words, at least believe My wounds.”

(Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul 379.)

Let your love and trust grow stronger as you remember the Lord's Passion today.  There is no greater love than this:

    Jesus gave His life for YOU.

 

-Susan

Do You Trust Me (Holy Thursday)

The most solemn moment of my life is the moment when I receive Holy Communion.  I long for each Holy Communion, and for every Holy Communion, I give thanks to the Most Holy Trinity. (Diary: Divine Mercy in my Soul 1804).

  On the night of the Last Supper, Jesus took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body which will be given for you, do this in memory of me.” (Luke 22:19). Jesus very specifically states who He is giving up His body for. He gave his life for YOU! Receiving Holy Communion is a very personal moment between you and Jesus.  It is a moment of pure love for Jesus. Is it a moment of pure love for you as well?

-Susan

Do You Trust Me/ (Week 6)

  For them (souls and poor sinners), I dwell in the Tabernacle as King of Mercy. I desire to bestow My graces upon souls but they do not want to accept them….My heart drinks only of the ingratitude and forgetfulness of souls living in the world.  They have time for everything, but they have no time to come to me for grace.  Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul (367)  

  

   Imagine if a favorite actor, sports star, or singer asked you to come to their house. Would you do it? Would you rearrange your schedule for them? Would you share your experience with others? Do you ever dream of being like them?

 Just as people eagerly welcomed Jesus on Palm Sunday, do we give Him the same attention the rest of the week?  After Sunday Mass, how much time do we spend with Jesus? He desires to be your closest friend. Does that thought excite you?  Do you rearrange your schedule to be with Him? 

 Jesus, the King of Heaven and Earth, is so good and loving that He patiently waits for us. He invites us to spend time with Him, but we often have too many other things going on.   What excuses have you given Him for not coming?  If you feel embarrassed about this, know that you're not alone.  Let's make a promise to make this week different. Let this week be the beginning of something new.

-Susan

   

Do You Trust Me? (Week 5)

  (Jesus told St. Faustina) "My heart overflows with great mercy for souls and especially for poor sinners.  If only they could understand that I am the best of Fathers to them and that the blood and water flowed from My heart as from a font overflowing with mercy."  Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul (367)              

 

 (This quote refers to the graces in the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist. Today, we will examine the first part of the quote and revisit it next week.)

 

  Ashamed and standing just outside the church doors with your head cast down, your heart whispers, "Father, forgive me, for I have sinned."  You hear the door open, and as you slowly look up, you notice Jesus standing at the entrance.  He takes your hand and gently guides you inside.  "Lord, my sins are so many." You then let out a very long sigh.

 Jesus continues to hold your hand and says. "They don't have to be a part of you anymore. Give them to Me."

 "I'm ashamed to say them out loud."

 Jesus places a hand on your chin and slowly raises your head so that your eyes meet His.  "Do you trust that all things are possible for Me?  Do you trust that I can heal with one word, with one touch?  There is no end to My Mercy.  I can wash away the ugliest of sins.  So tell Me what needs to be healed in your heart, and I will show you the fountain of mercy flowing from Mine."

 Slowly, you speak words unveiling dark secrets. You kneel before the Lord, exposed and vulnerable, afraid to meet His gaze again. But again, Jesus lifts your head and says, "Child, I absolve you of all your sins."  Then He wraps His arms around you and presses you close to His heart.  Mery and love flow through you. You feel beautiful, cleansed, and renewed. Instinctively, you realize this is how you were meant to be: a child whose heart contains God's love and mercy.

-Susan

  

  

Do You Trust Me (Week 4)

"Silence is a sword in the spiritual struggle...The silent soul is capable of attaining the greatest union with God.  It almost always lives under the inspirations of the Holy Spirit. God works in a silent soul without hindrance." 

(Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul 477).

How often have you had to say to someone, "If you would just stop talking for a minute, you would hear what I'm saying?"  I wonder how often God has said that to me. Adulthood demands that we spend our time productively and take pride in our multitasking ability. Sitting in silence can seem like a poor use of time. Silence, however, slices through the world's noise, creating a space for God to enter.

 Spiritual growth is not a journey we undertake alone. It is a response to contemplate and imitate God, who is the source of all growth. Silence, as a compelling, active encounter, can surpass any of our daily plans. Although God can multitask to a level we could never comprehend, He desires and concentrates on a single task for each of us. He desires us to become saints.

 Let's make this week truly productive by actively placing ourselves in God's presence. Breathe in His Spirit. Get to know the one true God. Hear His voice, listen to His thoughts, and rest in His love. 

-Susan 

 

Do You Trust Me? (Week 3)

 

"Oh, if souls would only be willing to listen, at least a little, to the voice of conscience and the voice--that's the inspiration of the Holy Spirit!  I say "at least a little" because once we open ourselves to the influence of the Holy Spirit, He himself will fulfill what is lacking in us." (Diary Divine Mercy in My Soul 162).

 Each day, I pray that the Holy Spirit inspires me and that I am faithful to His inspirations.  I need to pray for His strength and courage because, if I am honest, ignoring the inspirations of the Holy Spirit can be easier than acting on them. Often, my first reaction is that I'm not qualified to say or do that.  No one is going to listen to me. And while my small inner thoughts can justify remaining quiet, I'm unsure if the sigh that escapes my lips is mine or the Holy Spirit's.

 Trusting God is central to the message of Divine Mercy. It almost sounds absurd that, at times, I do not trust God and His plans. Paradoxically, I can easily acknowledge my weaknesses and inabilities and yet, in the next thought, convince myself that my thoughts are better. I can easily forget that my best friend, the Holy Spirit, has everyone's best interest in His heart.  The Holy Spirit inspires each of us so that we can inspire one another. The plan is actually quite incredible when everyone follows it.

 This week, let's be brave enough to ask the Holy Spirit to inspire us to do some small job for God. If the job makes us uncomfortable, let's remember to ask the Holy Spirit to fill us with whatever is lacking. 

  -Susan

Do You Trust Me?

 

  As we journey through this Lenten season, let's draw inspiration from the Diary of St. Faustina (Divine Mercy in My Soul)  Her intimate conversations unveil the depth of God's love and mercy for every soul. St. Faustina's revelations from Jesus remind us that many souls take His love for granted, causing Him pain. But Lent allows us to change and renew our relationship with God.

 I want to consider the first quote: "God usually chooses the weakest and simplest souls as tools for His great work" (464).

 God chose St. Faustina, the apostles, and He is choosing you. Listen carefully to the whispers He has planted in your heart.  His plan is perfect. What is God calling you to do? Do you know? Are you avoiding it?  Or have you never asked?  Like many of us, St. Faustina thought she was too simple of a soul to do great works. But we can always trust in God's Plan.  Let us begin Lent by asking God to increase our trust in Him. God is well aware of what we can do and is very aware of what He can do through us.  Placing our trust in God is a perfect place to begin.

-Susan

  

Keeping Balanced

 

   Today, I will share an embarrassing story that I'm sure many of you can relate to.  I want to start by saying, "I know I should not have done that."  Here goes.  My daughter and I were shopping at a large department store. We were going to check out the sales on the lower level.  The minute we got on the escalator, something caught my eye. I turned to my daughter while pointing and said, "Look, we have to go back up."  My daughter quickly turned around and easily went up the down escalator.  Unfortunately, I did not.  My shoe hit the edge of the moving stair, and my balance was completely thrown off. I tried to regain my balance, but I couldn't recover. I fell to my knees, praying that no one had seen that.

 My daughter quickly stepped back on the escalator to check on me. Once I confirmed that I was more humiliated than hurt, she said, "I don't mean to laugh, Mom, but you looked hilarious!" I cringed with embarrassment.

 Did I know better?  I sure did.  So, what possessed me to do it anyways?  It was something I had done plenty of times in the past, I didn't think it was a big deal. But the throbbing bump on my knee told a different story. This incident was a wake-up call, a reminder that even seemingly harmless actions can have consequences.

 Ash Wednesday is just a few days away.  Lent is the perfect time to look at what habits are throwing us off balance.  Bad habits usually start small and harmless, and we easily shrug them off as not a big deal. But little by little, a bad habit can tip the scale in the opposite direction, and suddenly, we have trouble juggling everything. Sometimes, it's our prayer life that ends up falling off. This Lent, let's use this time for self-reflection and address these habits before they disrupt our spiritual life.

 Before Ash Wednesday, take a look at your prayer life.  Have you let any new habits steal your time with God?  It can be embarrassing to admit what excuses we give for not praying. Lent is the perfect time to reach out and grab a hold of God's hand before you lose your balance and fall.

-Susan

New Release in Ten Days!

 

  Check out the new season of Lent 2025, which launches in ten days! Be sure not to miss it! There has been quite a bit of buzz about what to expect. The Creator says this season will definitely be different from last season and promises some big rewards to all participants. As in seasons past, this year will again be 40 days. However, everyone is expected to do a complete overhaul of past mistakes.  Everyone will get multiple passes to try again.

  The goal this season is not to let the enemy get between you and God's Will. The path will definitely have new and unseen challenges and surprises. And don't worry; some of the fan favorites will definitely be returning, but hopefully, they will do so with an added layer of zeal.  These favorites include Adoration, Reconciliation, Stations of the Cross, Rosaries, fasting, almsgiving, and service, to name just a few.

  For those who have not participated in the past, here are some insider tips for succeeding.  Call on the Holy Spirit to direct your steps, never miss an opportunity to receive Holy Communion, and praise God wherever you go!  Don't forget to use the intercessory prayers of Mary and all the saints.  They are the perfect go-to if you are confused.  Also, remember that calling on friends and family who are participating can help you stay strong.

  This season promises to be a real game-changer.  Many will obtain holiness.  You could be one of them!  But you can't do it watching someone else.  This new season is all about the decisions and opportunities you create.  Make Lent 2025 part of your legacy.

-Susan

Encountering The Cross (Week 6)

 

  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.

  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.

  "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! 

  "Welcome home, Maggie!  You are going to love it here!"

-Susan

Encountering the Cross (Introduction)

 

  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?

  The series will begin tomorrow.

-Susan

Out With The Old, Go Bold!

 

  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.

 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.

 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?"

 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!" 

-Susan