The knowledge of God is like a mustard seed: tiny at first, yet it grows so tall
It takes time and love, faith and joy above all.
Spiritual growth is a journey; dangerous yet rewarding.
Each time we step, we grow a bit. Someday, on eagles’ wings, we’ll be soaring.
But we can’t do it alone. We need the one up above
And no matter what we do, he is looking down in love.
Walking with us in the good times and carrying us in the bad,
I look to the Lord as my brother, friend, and dad.
If we have the smallest bit of faith and find good water, soil, and light
We can take root and one day be a shelter for many in flight
With tenderness and care with patience and with peace
For one so small there is so much potential for growth and increase
See what God can do with so little and make it so grand
It’s astounding to image for you and me what God has planned

We live in a world where bad things and evil walk among the good and just
Sometimes the weeds and thorns choke out the good wheat
Other times, they grow together, wrap and intertwine and to pull out the **** is to **** the wheat
Jesus, you speak in parables to try and make the message more relateable, more easily grasped.
You also warn and remind us to repent and to be careful that we are not caught up in the temptations and wiles of this earthly life. Help us Lord to be open to your voice, to hear your word, and inter the message in our hearts and in our lives. May our eyes, ears, heart and mind be open and receptive soil to see, hear, love, and understand your love and truth. You are the Way to the Father, the Spirit of Truth and Light, and the giver of Eternal Life. Grant, we beseech you, faith and understanding the size of a mustard seed that we may grow in wisdom and stature before God and man and be a refuge for all those in need. We ask this and all things in your Most Holy Name, Jesus. AMEN

Forgive me, I have done wrong against you and myself
I have not done anything to further my spiritual health
You suffered and died so I could go free
And how do I repay you? By sinning you see!
I am a fool for having done such a thing
And rather than praise it is dishonor I bring
I realize you have probably forgiven this sinner
Help me to forgive myself in humble surrender
By grace, mercy and love I have been saved
By your mighty hand lead me to walk the way you have paved
Help me turn my heart to you
I want to serve and live pure and true
I will never be perfect this much I know
But with your help in your love I can grow
May I remember in my tomorrow's and todays
That you Oh Lord are just a breath away
Give me the strength needed to turn from satan's power
Guide me through my darkest hour
And if I forget send someone to help redirect
Lest I stumble fall or lose my way please set me on the path correct
I love you and thank you and help me to follow
Your ways and your footsteps and not be skin shallow
AMEN

Hail Mary our Mother so gentle and true
For nine months you carried "God with Us" in you
Hail Mary our Mother so quiet and strong
Give us the courage to join you in song
Hail Mary our Mother free from sin and full of grace
Lead us to your son, help us see and recognize His face
Hail Mary our Mother of mercy and sorrow
Pray for us Mary in our todays and tomorrows
Hail Mary our Mother Holy Queen enthroned above
Teach us faith, and wisdom, teach us love
Hail Mary our Mother so tender and mild
Give us the vision to see with the eyes of a child
Hail Mary our Mother shining light, guiding star
Bring back your children wherever they are
Hail Mary our Mother pure and chaste
Quicken our hearts that we would make haste
Hail Mary our Mother look on us with compassion and favor
And one day lead us home to your son our Savior.

Amen

Here I sit in this holy room
Surrounded by God and a heavenly host
Of saints and angels who give him glory.
Each changed by the body and blood
The power of love and beauty in the sacrifice.
Here I sit in this holy room
A witness to the saving power
A devotion to the perpetual presence
Of Christ with us and in us.
We are each bearers of light, bearers of Christ;
We carry him in us wherever we go.
Here I sit in this holy room
To listen and take in this wondrous gift.
I choose to accept this gift.
How can I not want to share this love with others?
How can I keep from singing and shouting His name?
Here I sit in this holy room
Holy Spirit fill this place and my soul,
Uplift them to the throne of God above.
Start a fire in me that cannot be quenched
And set in me the bright flame of love and passion.
Lead my feet and guide my steps along the path
Be my compass and my Northern Star
So I may never lose my way;
So I can always find my way back home.
Here I sit in this holy room
To add my voice to those around the world
At this moment praying for a change
In others and in their own lives:
Praying for safety and peace,
Understanding and patience.
Praying for survival, praying for the faith's revival.
Praying with men and women past and present
To call upon your aid as we aid those in need.
We pray for many things: our families, friends, nation.
We pray for each other, we pray for ourselves.
Lead us to you, take us closer to your merciful heart,
Love us and heal us and teach us where to start.
Here I sit in this holy room
I give thanks for the gift of undeserved love
And cast my gaze to Heaven above.

Good Shepherd

The Lord is my Shepherd… I need nothing more

He is my rock, my guide, my friend whom I adore

He binds the wounded and heals the sick

He is there for his sheep through thin and thick



The Lord is my Shepherd… I need not fear

To You Lord all the flock is very dear

No one more important all loved just the same

He knows all His sheep by name



The Lord is my Shepherd… In whom I find rest

He calls us all to our own spiritual quest

His love is forever, unconditional, and unending

I fall down in awe before The King



The Lord is my Shepherd… He knows his own

The sheep know His voice and tone

The Lord makes sure each one is safe and sound

He will bring them back to safe lush ground



The Lord is my Shepherd… He protects us from danger

Protecting us from any stranger

You separate the sheep from the goats

Guarding us from satan (the crafty wolf in sheep’s coats)



The Lord is my Shepherd… I know He will always provide

Even through the darkest night He is at our side

Delivering me from my biggest foes

When we are overwhelmed and scared He takes the blows



The Lord is my Shepherd… Forgiving and open

Taking in and loving us as we are: ****** and broken

As sheep we are so prone to wander and stray

But whatever we do we cannot get away



The Lord is my Shepherd… And I am in good hands

I rest in His wondrous presence; safe from shifting sands

‘Neath His wings I find a peace comparable to none

I bask in the power and warmth of The Son



Lord, thank you for being our good shepherd! Thank you for keeping us safe, providing for us, and bringing us back home when we go astray. Please be the shepherd of our minds, our hearts, and our tongues as we try to follow the sound of your voice and to go where you lead us. As you are a good shepherd to us, your children, I pray that we too may be shepherds to all people here on earth. Just as you told Peter "feed my sheep" "tend my sheep" "feed my lambs" if he really loved you, so are we called to do the same to our brothers and sisters all around the world. For it is by taking care of the least of these and being a neighbor to everyone that we in turn do the same for you! Amen.

He is with us in our hearts and in our lives;
He is not so far away.
Reach out to him in your very breath,
Reach out and hold him in your hands.
He is with us always
To the end of the age and beyond.
He is with us always
We are never truly alone.
He has a place in my heart,
He is here in my soul,
He is the music around me,
He is the spirit that moves me.
He came down from Heaven to live as man;
He came as a human so we might understand
How much he loves us loves you and me.
He is with us at home, at work, at play,
He is beside us each and every day.

Up here on the mountain of the Great I Am
The one who reigns he is the same: the lion and the lamb
Up here on the mountain the sun reveals God's glory
With each step and every breath a part of my life's story
Up here on the mountain my spirit is set free
Up here on the mountain my Lord is changing me

Up here upon the mountain you call me: come follow, come walk
Here upon the mountain I listen and try to hear you talk
Silence isn't easy outer words and inner thoughts
Searching to fill a hunger when it's you I should've sought

Up here on the mountain of the Great I Am
The one who reigns he is the same: the lion and the lamb
Up here on the mountain the sun reveals God's glory
With each step and every breath a part of my life's story
Up here on the mountain my spirit is set free
Up here on the mountain my Lord is changing me

Now and then I feel the weight from sin and shame
I say sorry and ask forgiveness and every time the same
But you love me anyway I see you love me still
You loved me then, you love me now, and you always will

Up here on the mountain of the Great I Am
The one who reigns he is the same: the lion and the lamb
Up here on the mountain the sun reveals God's glory
With each step and every breath a part of my life's story
Up here on the mountain my spirit is set free
Up here on the mountain my Lord is changing me

There are days when I feel like I can fly
Other times I just want to break down and cry
I can't stay here forever and sometimes I must go
Out in the world or to the valley far below

Up here on the mountain of the Great I Am
The one who reigns he is the same: the lion and the lamb
Up here on the mountain the sun reveals God's glory
With each step and every breath a part of my life's story
Up here on the mountain my spirit is set free
Up here on the mountain my Lord is changing me

The journey's long, the road is hard and I want to give in
You teach me dependence and faith invaluable lessons

Up here on the mountain of the Great I Am
The one who reigns he is the same: the lion and the lamb
Up here on the mountain the sun reveals God's glory
With each step and every breath a part of my life's story

There in the beauty of a sunset, in a picture perfect day
I catch a little glimpse of You in a more amazing way
Up here on the mountain my spirit is set free
Up here on the mountain my Lord is changing me

Along the stairway to Heaven
The angels play their harps of gold
They sing hymns of ceaseless praise
To the prince of peace and king of kings.
He came down from Heaven to take his place as man
To pay the cost we could not pay was always the plan.
I walk along the stairway to Heaven
It is a long and challenging climb
But I keep my eyes fixed ahead and I make some progress.
I do not walk alone for there are many here with me
The way we make it up is to help each other.
Mary made a path for us and Jesus paved the way
Joseph walks beside us lending us his strength
Jacob dreams a ladder stretching from Heaven to earth.
The cross became the bridge with which to cross
The Grand Canyon that is between us and God.
Sometimes I feel like I'm close to you
Other times I'm miles away and in the dark.
Be with me Lord and help me on the way
Lord give me strength for the journey.
At times the climb is more like a battle
Fighting just to keep my feet from falling
But when I lose hope I think I feel you calling.
The stairway to Heaven will last a lifetime
There are many gone before us to help show us
To guide and encourage and challenge.
Following their light to the source of all light.
The stairway to Heaven is not always an easy climb
But it has been well worth the struggle every single time.

We're all the same no matter what we are
We are close together and not very far
Each of us is unique, none of us is exactly alike
They are people just like us, so why do we strike
Doesn't matter what your color eyes or hair,
Race or religion we should all play fair
You are you and I am me
Different but great friends you see
Why do we hate others in the world
We are all one string attached just tightly curled
Can we get along together one day
Peace to peace and heart to heart that's all you gotta say
Its really very simple it ain't that very hard
It could be just as simple as a hopeful little card
Why can't we seem to get along? Why do we have to fight?
Why can't we be happy every day and night?
It is just that little question that I ask
How hard can it be to do a tiny little task?
We're all the same when we go to die,
We're all the same in that we must ask why
Hating someone else isn't far from hating a friend
Would you hate that person with you to the end?
How is it that it is so hard to love yet so easy to hate
Its no problem breaking up but hard to find a date
So you see we're really all the same at the end of time
Which reminds me its the end of this rhyme

I pray for the world that we would be instruments of love and peace. That we would cultivate forgiveness and equality and strive to understand each other better so that we would be made more tolerant and less angry and afraid.

I pray for the nations of the world and their leaders that they have respect for you and for the many they lead. May they lead with wisdom, understanding, compassion and justice. I pray also that they lead with integrity and honesty.

I pray for our cities, towns, and communities that we would be good stewards of the gifts we have each been given to reach out and help those around us. Help us be generous and honest. Help us be leaders and role models for our children, grandchildren and all the youth who will one day do the same.

I pray for our families and friends, and for those who are hurting. I pray that you would be with them and heal them or give them the strength and courage necessary. Keep our families and friends close to you and may you be at the center of their relationships so that peace, love, and joy would prosper and their lives would flourish.

I pray for those who serve us and by whose service keep us safe and well. I pray for their safety Lord. Send your angels to guard and protect them and help us support and thank them however we can. Let their hands and feet and all they do be extensions of you. Bless them Lord, bless the little ones, the least ones and the last ones.

I pray for us Lord. Help us remain faithful and fixed on you. Don't give up on us: for we are broken, but we are also so strong. Be with us Lord and help us to live by your example and let us be a light for all to see.

Bless us all Lord that we may care for each other and in doing so, care also for you.


Amen

May our prayers be as incense rising up
Our joys and sufferings, our longings, be a sweet perfume unto you
We bow our heads, we bend our knees
We lift our hearts and we begin to find peace.
We lift our voices and our hands
Sing together across seas and land.
Lifted up as we fall down
We, the nail in your hands, a thorn on the crown.

You are loved more dearly than you'll ever know.
Hold my hand, follow me into the light, we'll take it slow.
You're walking on the water while the waves and wind rage on
But fear not, I'll never let you go.
I have heard your cries, I have heard your prayers.
Though you forsake me, I will never forsake you.
I hold you in my hand, I hold the sun in place,
I know you, I love you, I give you my life:
Will you do the same for me?
Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, welcome the sinner and the saint.
Welcome the poor into your home and into your heart.

You do the same for me;
You make me all I am.
You raise me up to more than I can be on my own.
You fill my soul with your song,
You sing your love over my life and I'm amazed.
I'm aware of your presence, but sometimes I can't see
The greatness of your master plan and why it has to be.
But I trust you, Lord help me to believe.

Some day I'll understand the wisdom of your plan
When all will be revealed and all will be made new
When I'm finally home where I can be with you.

But until that time Lord, be with me today.
Free me from these chains that bind, be here with me always.

Amen

Take my hand reaching out in the dark
Cling to me when you miss the mark
Hold on to me, I’ll never let you go
I’m always right beside you I want you to know
Put your hand in my hand; feel the nail scars there
Put your hand in my hand and feel how much I care.
My hand will guide you both night and by day,
Let me guide you and show you the way.
Put your hand in mine and feel them rough and worn
The hands that saw a world hurt and torn.
Put your hand in mine and feel the tenderness and strength
The hands that, to find and bring you back, would go to any length.
The hands that cured the *****, and healed the sick and weak,
My hands are reaching out; if only you would seek.
See how much I love you dearest child of mine
All you see before you I created by design
I want the world for you, but I want you in heaven with me
Take my hand; I will give you the faith to truly see.
Put your hand in my hand and let me fill the hole
I don’t need your success I want you to give me control
I will not lead you into danger or make you go astray
Feel my hands on yours every time you pray.
Even in the darkest night my hand is there to save
I love you so much that my very life, I freely gave
Feel my arms wrap around you in a warm embrace
Let me heal you, give you peace and grace.
Take my hand and walk with me. Child, do not fear
Even when you cannot see me, I am always here.
Take comfort in my presence as you rest, safe from harm
As long as I am with you there is no need for alarm
Do you trust me? Then take my hand and follow
I can make you whole once more, this world can leave you hollow.
Can you feel me with you on this very night?
Take my hand and come with me as we walk into the light.

Devil just can't get a hold of me
'Cause God's life and death has set me free
Devil just can't keep me down
'Cause not even death could keep Jesus in the ground
Devil won't take my eyes
'Cause Jesus has power over the prince of lies
Devil don't own my heart
'Cause God made me his right from the start
Devil can't bind my hands
'Cause God has my life under his commands
Devil won't hold my feet
'Cause Jesus stood strong when taking heat
Devil won't steal my soul
'Cause Jesus is he who fills the hole
Devil can't steal my strength
'Cause Jesus is my rock, refuge, and with him I'll go great lengths
Devil don't bind my chest
'Cause when I'm at my weakest, God's at his best
Devil just can't hold me back
'Cause God will protect me from attack
Devil can't control my *****
'Cause God satisfies  fully when, to his, our hearts we join

Blazing hot with the Holy Spirit
The devil runs for fear of it
To God I give my entire being
His power sends the devil fleeing
When Jesus is present on my mind
I can leave the devil far behind
In Christ's eternal perfect love
Devil says: "Aye, there's the rub"
In faith and trust I hold to hope
Feet are firm against the devil's steep *****
In God I take great joy and delight
That the devil can't hope to steal my light
Jesus is my source of peace
Devil won't win but he doesn't cease
To God I sing hymns of praise
To fend off the devil's cold embrace
To serve the Lord is a great honor
My life was saved by a blood donor
To God be power and wonder and glory
Spoiler: The devil loses at the end of the story!
Jesus is the lover of my soul
Devil just don't have any control

You are part of something great I know
Always spreading joy wherever you go
Part of something bigger, part of something great
You are something special and I can't hardly wait
Give a little money, help a little poor,
Something very tiny can grow to so much more
You have to take in the whole thing to see
Why you are here and what you will come to be
It doesn't waltz in, you have to answer the call
Just helping people isn't nearly close to all
You may not know, but you changed my life today
Made my whole time better in each and every way
I am happier now just because of you
As to why you make me feel this way, I haven't got a clue!
Answer me this question: tell me true, don't lie
How you made a difference and don't forget the why!
If I lived another billion years
If I cried another billion tears
Nothing could ever change the fact that you're my friend
You always stuck with me to the very bitter end
I feel more safe when you are around
If ever I am in trouble you are always found
When you are close at hand I feel stronger
With your faith in me I can hold on a bit longer
I am there for you now and for always
I am beside you walking in the hallways.

The Lord God is worthy to be praised
Strong and mighty for all of my days
Lifted high above the earth
He died so we could see what we're worth
Jesus friend of sinners the lost and the shamed
Jesus healer of our ills breaker of our chains
Saved us by his mighty hand
But we are sinking rapidly in shifting sand
Full of compassion and rich is his love
His kindness endures and mercy rains from above
When we are lost and confused he carries us back
In the pasture of the Lord there is nothing that we lack
Green are the fields upon which we rest
The pure spring water is simply the best
The sun rises and bathes us with light
We are precious in his sight
He guides us through the valleys by his staff and rod
In the darkness we will not fear for the shepherd is our God

Lord, I’m longing to be in the light of your glory
I’m yearning to kneel at the foot of your throne
I hunger and thirst for your presence oh Lord
My soul longs for you, my spirit thirsts for you Oh Lord My God
How I wish I could spend just one day with you
To walk hand in hand down the heavenly streets
Just the two of us how beautiful and wonderful it would be
There is no greater feeling than the feeling I get when we are in synch
I can almost hear the trumpets blaring and joy fills the air
The feeling I get when you and I dance
Nothing compares Lord. Nothing comes close.
You are an oasis when I’m lost in the desert place,
You are a ray of light on a cloudy day.
Yours is the love of a father for his child
Yours are the hands that are rough and calloused with work yet soft, strong and gentle
Yours are the eyes that have taken in so much joy, so much suffering and everything in between
And still they are full of love, full of life and. They are kind eyes
Yours are the feet travelling many miles to find the lost again
Yours are the arms stretching out to hold the world close to you
Yours the heart with room enough for all and endless love
Yours is the way: the journey we take, the path we walk, the direction we try to follow
Yours is the truth: this is what we seek. We want to know truth, to know you. The truth that sets men free
Yours is the life: trying to imitate how you lived, loved. And the eternal life of a soul that rests in God.
You are peace when this world is at war
You are love when there seems nothing but hate
You are life for my soul like the air that I breathe
You are strength when I am at my weakest
You are good when my life is anything but
You are hope in times of great despair
You are light to drive away the darkness
You are true in the midst of many lies
You are perfect in my perfect imperfections
You are my God and I Am YOURS

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus, I trust in your Divine Providence. Allow me to be open enough to allow you to work and move in and through me.

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus, I trust in your Divine Will in my life. Help me to follow and walk with you especially when I cannot feel you near or see the path before me.

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus, I trust in your Divine Joy. Guard me to remain ever joyful and kindle in me to look at life with childlike faith and joy.

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus, I trust in your Divine Peace. In a world with chaos and commotion at every side, remind me of the peace I find when I focus on you.

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus, I trust in your Divine Mercy and Grace. I don't deserve it and can't earn it, but you give it anyway. Help me thank you by doing the same for others.

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus, I love you! Jesus, I adore you! I need not fear because Jesus you are FOR me.

Jesus, I trust in YOU!

AMEN

I Asked For Only

I asked for a shelter; you gave me your home
I asked for acceptance; you loved me as your own
I asked for love; you gave me your heart
I asked for patience; you were here from the start
I asked for understanding; you have been to the core
I asked for very little; you gave me so much more

I was a stranger; you welcomed me just the same
Outcast and without purpose; you gave me a name
I was in prison; you came and visited me
Troubled and confused; you opened my eyes to see
I was naked and without clothes; you gave me something to wear
Cold and exposed; you took the time to care
I was hungry and thirsty; you gave me water and bread
And in doing so, my soul was also fed
I was sad; you gave me comfort and dried my tears
Scared and alone; you quieted my fears

In all my years I only dreamed that I could be this blessed
Now this dream a reality never adequately expressed

Love Was Greater

Love was Greater
Love was greater than our sin and hate
Love is necessary in order to create
Love was greater than suffering and pain
Love bore the weight of all our shame
Love was greater than the power of death
Love gave life with it’s breath
Love was greater than all our dreams
Love is so much more than it first seems
Love was greater than all our fear
Love is something I hold most dear
Love is patient love is kind
Love is gentle love is not blind
Love is slow to anger and quick to forgive
Love is not jealous love loves to give
Love does not boast but acts humbly
Love is what can set a prisoner free
Love never quits when things get hairy
Love will not waste nor will it tarry
Love is what flowed from Jesus’ side
Love was shown when He spread his arms and died
Love was greater than what we deserve
Love has covered over all the earth
Love is greater than all treasure is worth
Love is our heritage love is our legacy
Love is a mystery love is our history
Love is greater than words can say
Love is the message we try to convey
Love is a peace beyond compare
Love is a presence that is everywhere
Love is opening the eyes of my heart
Love has painted us works of art
Love is a secret that needs to be shared
Love was so great that our lives were spared
Love was greater than death on a cross
Love said we’re worth any cost
Love Is Greater

Hail Mary
Full of Grace
The Lord is with You
Blessed are you among women
And Blessed is the fruit of your womb:
Jesus.
Holy Mary
Mother Of God
Pray for us Sinners
Now,
And at the hour,
Of our death.
AMEN.

Greetings Mary! You are filled by God's grace and his grace covers and surrounds you. You are hand selected by God to carry out his plan; blessed are you among all women! By the Holy Spirit you shall conceive while still a ******. Blessed is the fruit of your womb a son whom you shall name Jesus Emmanuel meaning God With Us.
Mary, mother of God made flesh, you are pure and holy in heart, spirit, and flesh. We pray to you now, to intercede for all of us sinners to your son today, every day of our lives and at the hour of our death. We ask this with humble hearts and we know you hear and intercede for us who seek your help. Thank you. Help our lives and our answers be a "yes" to God that all things may be done unto us according to your son's will. We ask this and all things in your confidence,
AMEN!

Still my restless soul and gently wrap me in your perfect peace. Many times I cannot see the way; it is dark and I cannot feel you near me. I begin to feel frightened and alone, I stumble and doubt. In all times, Lord, remind me that you are always near to me or send someone into my life to give me hope and light. Grant me the strength and the grace during the storms to overcome or ride them out with the hope that, before long, I shall once again be in the light of your presence. Forgive me when I doubt you Lord even knowing that you have always provided before and that I have nothing to fear. When I am tired and worn, weak and afraid help me to find comfort and rest in the shelter of your arms. Grant the grace and the strength to be a warrior of peace in a world that seems anything but. Let me sow love where there is hatred and peace where there is war. Help me to make even one person's life a little better and a little more peaceful before I pass from this world. Grant me the courage to stand up and speak out against wrongs and to show peace, love, justice, fairness, and equality by first living them myself.

Another year almost come and gone and

Christmas day is upon us once again.

Today’s Christmases full

Of gifts, hour long lines, last minute shopping

And Stress!

Life moving at a breakneck pace; never slowing,

People not sparing a small coin to put in the Salvation Army bucket.

I wonder if we would all make better presents

Than the ones we receive on Christmas-

With how wrapped up we are.

There are those (not to be forgotten) who do something kind

For someone else; Sometimes anonymously.

Though I feel that, through the years,

We have forgotten what Christmas really is.

Christmas isn’t about bows, ribbons, or tags

Nor is Christmas about packages, boxes, or bags.

What is it then? Go back about 2000 years or so to the very first Chrismas

A very cold, dark, winter night in a Bethlehem barn a young woman gave birth

To a son Jesus “Emmanuel” meaning (‘God With Us’)

On that night the witnesses to Jesus’ birth were

A few shepherds from nearby fields,

The animals in the barn, 3 kings (wisemen they be), and a poor drummer boy.

The kings brought gifts to pay homage and honor to the babe

The drummer boy had no gift to bring, but played a song for the child

All was bright, calm, peaceful that night

The warmth of love and light

Overpowering the cold, dark, winter of that Bethlehem night

You Lead Me Still

When the sun is at my front and the wind at my back
When all is calm and lovely and there is nothing that I lack
When we treat each other with love and respect
Everyone is care for and there is no more neglect

You led me then you lead me still
Lord lead me now somehow I know you will
Live in me and give me the grace I need for the mission
Lord warm me conform me open my ears to listen

When the enemy surrounds me and my back's against the wall
I place my trust in you I don't have to fear at all
When the storms are raging and I'm blinded by the spray
I think of you and find the strength to say

You led me then you lead me still
Lord lead me now somehow I know you will
Lord take me remake me help me speak what's true
Lord grow me and show me how to point to you

I'm standing on the front lines in a holy battleground
A war for the heart of man with victims all around
It rages always without end both day and night
In the darkness all I am is a small ray of light

You led me then you lead me still
Lord lead me now somehow I know you will
Lord hold me enfold me keep me safe from harm
Lord send me defend me hold me in your arms

Throughout my life you were always leading me
All of this seems very clear to see
In sun and rain in joy and pain you were always right beside
Your word is a lamp to my feet and on the path you guide

So Lord right now please hear my prayer
You know I am earnest, my soul is laid bare:
You led me then you lead me still
Lord lead me now somehow I know you will

I've been waiting so long to get you
In that time, my love grew
But now you have to leave so soon
I'd cry so hard my tears would reach the moon
Waiting so long to see you show a smile
Just let me remember you awhile
I remember back in those days of old
Sitting back and listening to stories told
You mean so much to me that I won't forget
When I opened up to you, you took my heart and stole it
You have been with me through bad times and good
I would say I love you if only I could
Help me to make the right choice not wrong
Its almost like I really knew you all along
Its been some time since we last talked a bit
Can we spend some time to casually talk and sit
When I look in one's eyes I can see their soul
Just in the eyes you can see one's whole
I'd like to know will I get to know you any better
And as I miss you my eyes are getting wetter
Thank you for being there my friend
I can't forget you until the end
Life is a roller-coaster of weather
I am worn but tough just like leather
I don't know how to thank you good enough
I see in you that you've got great stuff

Called to Be Free

We are bound by our sins, chained by our choices
We cry out, we scream with soundless voices
We are slaves to what we love, prisoners to our desires
All we touch burns and we are ****** from razor wires
Trapped in an endless circle a cycle so vicious
We can’t find up, it is tormenting and malicious

But we are called to be free
We are called to truly see
The weights we carry have been lifted
We deserve nothing but how much we have been gifted
We are called to leave the madness far behind
To seek and know true peace of mind
We are called to rise up on great wings
To laugh in the meadows and dance in the springs
To leap with young legs for the joy of being alive
To go beyond just enough and learn how to thrive

We lose ourselves in the everyday action
We forget ourselves and lose satisfaction
We miss the point and we miss the mark
We wander aimlessly stabbing in the dark
We are the walking dead animated flesh and bone
We cut ourselves off and then feel all alone

But we are called to be free
We are called to look beyond “only me”
We can find ourselves in a breath of prayer
We remember ourselves in our Savior’s care
We can reach the goal and reclaim our center
We a full of light and life when we let Jesus enter
We are united to Christ and to one and all
To be free and alive: this is the call

Amen

Peace be upon you and your home
Blessings and graces abound
The love of the Lord goes wherever you roam
And wherever you are may he always be found

Grace to you and all your kin
Glad tidings and good news we bring
A man like us in all but sin
Born this night; Heaven and nature sing

Rest easy tonight, do not be afraid
For one has come to save us one and all
Shepherds and wise-men in homage paid
A bridge builder breaking down walls

Hail full of grace the angel said
You shall bear a son and call him Emmanuel Jesus
Let God’s will be done in me Mary prayed
Understanding how God sees us

Peace on the earth and good will to men
Let it start with me and then
Let all who look at me see this light
Shining like the star on that first Christmas night

May you be at peace now and always
May you never run out of thanks and praise
May the God who made you draw you close
In the love of Father, Son, and Holy Ghos’

Peace in the sea, the air and the land
Peace to the people, the flock of His hand
Peace to all nations their leaders in power
That we would have peace and safety in this dark hour

Prayer for Peace

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on us. Forgive and heal us, especially in the Holy Week leading up to Easter. We have fallen so far and turned away from you. There is so much death and suffering and sorrow. You know this pain intimately. We need you Lord more than we realize or care to admit. In your perfect love for us you gave us free choice and we need to accept the consequences for our choices good and bad. There are so many innocent and faithful who are suffering as a result. Take pity on them Lord and have mercy on us all. Lord let all be done according to your will not mine, but I would ask that through the intercession of your mother, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, through your Most Sacred Heart, the heart of the father Joseph, God the Father and by the power of the Holy Spirit, you would show this world a sign of your love. I pray that as the sun rises on Easter morning in the fulfillment of the hope of the Resurrection and new life that we would have hope and peace. Send your Holy Spirit to fill our hearts and flood our lives and move us to act with compassion and understanding toward all of our brothers and sisters in Christ and every one we come in contact with. Be with us always Lord help us to love one another and you as you first loved us.

I ask this and all things with confidence to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and through the intercession of Mary our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament and Joseph her most chaste spouse.

In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. AMEN

My God my God do you hear me crying out?
I am in this pit of darkness and sin
My hands and feet are bound
From my lips there comes no sound
This guilt and shame it crushes me
Do you hear me? Do my pleas reach your ears
For I am mourning and weeping in this valley of tears
Save me Lord in your endless mercy
Let me drink deep, for I am thirsty

My Lord my Lord do you hear me crying out?
Do you still hear me even when I doubt?
I know your love for me is more than I deserve
But it is my desire to take this opportunity to serve
You have freed me of my chains washed me white as snow
Help me take these moments and begin to grow
Do you hear me Lord crying out in thanksgiving
For I am once more back among the living

My Jesus my Jesus do you hear me crying out?
Do you hear the praise and wonder as I come to shout?
How can we keep from crying out
To share what God has done
How can we keep from crying out
And not wanting to tell everyone
How can we keep silent
When we know just what it cost
How can we keep silent
When we find the one that was lost
How can we keep still
When we have the legs to dance
How can we keep still
When we have this great romance
How can we hold back
When we have been given everything
How can we hold back
When the very rocks cry out and sing
How can we not feel another way
When we take the time to sit and pray

Everywhere

From the mountains to the valleys
From the skies so far above to the depths of the seas
From the poorest in the world to the rich in lofty seats
From the small town to the big city and every street
You are there, Lord you are everywhere

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot escape from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

The single mother with a baby and the one down on their knees
The outcast the unloved those who suffer from disease
The helpless and the broken burdened and betrayed
The forgotten or neglected happy just to greet another day
You are there, Lord the one who cares

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot run from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

For the widow and the orphan crying out for peace
For those who stand up asking violence to cease
For those who work to help and those who work to save
For the many whom, for their belief, their very lives they gave
You are there, Lord the one who loves

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot go from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

From our innermost thoughts to the deepest parts of us
When we love you and when we fuss
From what we are now to what someday we will be
When we tie ourselves with our choices and when we are set free
You are there, Lord the one who knows

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot hide from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere


You are here in our midst as we gather as one
You are here with us when the hour has come

You are here when we come to you in prayer
Even when we do not feel you, still you are here

You are here at all times whether we want you or not
You never leave us even when we leave you and that means a lot

You are with us every minute and every hour
You are with us by our side when we are feeling satan’s power

You are with us always until the end of time and there forever after
You are with us in our tears, our sufferings, our joys, and our laughter


No matter where we are or what we do we cannot be away from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

Father we come to you today in prayer an thanksgiving for the youth of our church and for all the youth around the world. We ask you Oh Lord to sen your Holy Spirit down upon them so that they may receive a holy spark to set their hearts ablaze with love for you, themselves and all your glorious creation! We pray for the youth that they would become today's great leaders, role-models, and guardians. Guide them, keep them safe and close to you Lord as they find themselves in who you are. We also pray for ourselves Lord. Those of us who gather here to lead, guide, teach, nurture. Fill us with a spirit of wisdom and understanding. Help us to be good stewards of the great task before us. Grant us, we pray, the strength, the courage, and commitment as we strive to change the world by changing our lives one heart at a time. With the understanding that you hear and answer our prayers in your way and your time and you know our hearts, we say: let your will be done Lord not ours. We pray this and all things with great confidence in your Most Holy Name Jesus. AMEN.

Together with family we have a great time
No matter what we’re doing we’re always having fun
Smiles and laughs and joy abound
With such great people it’s hard not to be positive
At the end of the day we are tired and happy
We retire to bed with a roof o’er our head
And thank the Lord for the things we have
Whether at the pool, sitting together and chatting, or anything else
Time with people you cherish is time indeed well spent
Time alone and spent for yourself is also necessary

What is more precious, more fleeting than time? So much of the world and our lives revolve around it. We have a set amount of it and all too quickly it is gone. What do we do with the time that we have? How do we spend it and what do we spend it on? Many of us try to do too much or do too little and regret our spending. We wish we spent more time with our families, our children, our friends: on the things that truly matter. This is all well and good, but how much of our time do we invest in our relationship with God, our time in prayer, worship and fellowship? How important is it and how important is it to us? Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in doing things that we forget to just be. We forget to stop, pause, or even slow down. We are always racing somewhere and we miss the beauty and the blessings that are all around. Let us take a little bit of our ever precious time and spend it with God, the one who gives us this gift in the first place. Did God ever feel lonely and want someone to talk to him? Is there someone in our lives that we haven’t talked to or spent time with in a while? Giving someone part of your time is one of the greatest and most meaningful gifts you can give someone. You give them the gift of your presence and it lets them know how special and loved they are because it’s not something that most of us give away freely.

Light of the world you broke through the dark
Came into this world and made your mark
We were lost and confused with no one to guide
Wrapped up in sin and shame we thought we could hide
Broken and cracked you picked up the pieces
Of our hearts. You smoothed the creases
Piece by piece you began to put us back
You gave us the support we once lacked
Slowly things started to take shape once more
And what I saw shook me to the core
You took the broken pieces and created something new
The picture upon which I gazed rang so true
A stained-glass window, a cross, a tree, and a heart
Out of death, love made life; a brand-new start.
I stood there smiling as I looked upon the scene
As I drowned in your mercy and love I was made clean
The stained-glass shone so beautifully
And my life will flourish fruitfully
For the light that now shines from within
Has made me more open
To your love and light, the son in the dawn.
At times, darkness creeps in and isn’t all gone
You are the light in me; an eternal flame
And since then I have never been the same
You are the star I follow to keep me going straight
But sometimes I wander and I make a mistake
You shine so bright that the darkness has to flee,
Light of the world help me truly see!

Love one another clothed now in Christ
Morning draws near to cast out the night
Things done in secret no longer can hide
Thorns in his brow and spear in his side
Love beyond measure, peace like a flood
Washed white as snow by his precious blood

Love your neighbor as yourself showing kindness to all
Work together in unity lest we may fall
Wrap yourself with truth and justice put on peace and grace
With wisdom and understanding we might know and see his face
The Word is our sword and faith is our shield
On our knees we steel ourselves on the holy battlefield

Clothed now in Christ we look to the sky
And together, with one voice, we cry
Lord, banish the darkness and show us the way
The sun is rising bringing forth a new day
The war is over Jesus has won
But here once again the battle’s just begun

Forever Friend



No matter the miles that stretch out between us,

No matter how far down the road you may be,

Even though, at this time, we rightly fuss

No distance is too great I hope you'll soon see.

When it comes to a forever friend.


In such short a time that I've been given

I've learned a few things

About laughing and loving and about livin',

God fearing women and the joy a smile brings;

These I have learned from a forever friend.


To share in the laughter, share in joy and in pain

To share in the tears and the moments so tender

To be rays of warm sun in the cold gray rain

These are the things forever friends engender.

These I have done and always will for my forever friend.


When the road gets too long and your world turns blue,

If your heart grows heavy and you feel weighted down,

Remember a bond far stronger than glue:

Close your eyes, count to ten, and turn around,

And there, close beside, is the forever friend.


For it is there, in the heart, that you can find

A part of them in you so close at hand.

Something there is; a connection of the strongest kind,

No distance, nor time, nor any other thing that cannot be spanned

By the love shared between forever friends.


And like Tigger so acutely does say:

Not good bye or farewell but TTFN

Its "Ta Ta For Now" until I see you again

You are never so far that you can't brighten my day

It makes me so proud that you are my forever friend!

March is Saint Patrick’s Day and Green
March is still cold outside
March is trees
March is before April
March is springtime and tornadoes
March is in like a lion out like a lamb
And in like a lamb and out like a lion
March is rain and rainbows and sunshine
March is flowers
March is Black Women History Month
This is March

Jesus as you hung with arms outstretched

Even as you were rejected time and time again

Somehow you loved us so much that you would give your life

Unconditional unsurpassed love would win

Sin couldn’t hold you, death had lost its power


Over and over you showed us love

Nailed on a cross between two thieves


Three days later you came back

Hell could not hold you; Heaven rejoiced

Everyone could not believe so easily


Carrying that cross to Calgary I can’t imagine

Ridiculed, beaten, ripped and torn

Our sins you took upon yourself

So that we might have new life; so that we might be:

S**AVED

Christmas Presence

The time of year is upon us once more
Filled with travel, shopping, stress
Running here, over there, buying this, giving gifts,
Ever more and ever longer Christmas lists!
Busier than bees in the summer, nuttier than squirrels in the fall
It's a wonder how we live at all!
We never bother to stop or pause or even slow down,
But what if we did? What if we dared to take a step back;
See beyond what we have to find what it is we lack.
If we go back to the beginning I think we might just find
Some Christmas presents of a slightly different kind.
A child was born a cold dark winter night,
Three rich wisemen brought expensive gifts and travelled many miles
A poor drummer boy played a song for the babe
But the greatest gift of all that day
Was the birth of baby Jesus
Sent to earth to give us great gifts:
The gifts of His mercy, forgiveness and grace,
The gifts of His love, wisdom, and compassion.
But the greatest gift of all was he gave us His LIFE! Died so we might live.
Every day He is with us, we are surrounded by His presence in our hearts and in our lives.
Each morning we wake up is a gift from God and every day and night He is with us.
We celebrate Christmas just one day a year, but Christmas is really all year!
I hope that we do not too quickly forget what is truly important and what Christmas really means.
Christmas isn't about the ribbons, the bows or tags,
It isn't about the packages, the boxes or bags!
It's together with family friends and loved ones to remember the gifts that they are;
Jesus gave us the gift of His PRESENCE, may we be PRESENT to Him and a GIFT to all both near and far!

When the world is all but the blackest of night
And the sky is starless and you can’t feel the light
When you feel crushed and it’s more than you can take
Try to remember that morning will break
The sun still shines

When hope seems all but gone to dust
Your life destroyed by thieves, moths and rust
Suffocated slowly by sin and shame
And you have none but yourself to blame
Look toward the horizon and see
The sun still shines

The sun still shines in spite of our fault
Remaining constant and steady it does not halt
The sun still shines even if we block it’s radiance
On our bad days the sun still shines it’s kindly countenance
The sun still shines

Let my light be the sun that still shines for you
That you too may shine for another
Let my light shine both pure and true
May it connect us as sister and brother
And remember: the sun still shines

When you wake in the morning for another new day
Give thanks and praise to God and say:
The sun still shines and warms the ground
This wonderful world in which I am found
With one word he made it so the sun still shines

When you rest your head in your nice warm bed
And dream sweet dreams of joyful scenes
As you drift away to soft sweet surrender
His might is great, His love is tender
The sun still shines

In faith, we know, the sun will shine again
We have confidence when we say Amen
Somehow we know the sun will shine once more
And it is something I hold deep in my core
The sun still shines

And when the sun does shine it’s last
I pray we will be in a place so vast
That even in our darkness the Son still shines
And in Heaven above we are washed in the light of love
So for now and always the sun still shines

Whatever you do, do it in the name of love
Whatever you do, do it in the name of peace
Why doesn't the war and violence and anger cease?
We build walls, we build bombs, we prepare for war and bloodshed
We isolate ourselves from others
We elevate ourselves and push others down
Forcing thoughts, beliefs, and ideas aggressively, I wonder why it doesn't work

Maybe there's another, better way to get people to listen
Maybe it has to start with me
I don't agree with everyone about everything; that's fine
But do I even try to UNDERSTAND?

Whatever I do, I do it in the name of love
Whatever I do, I do it in the name of peace
Whatever I do, I do to help the lowest and the least
Wherever I go, I tear down walls and build up bridges
Wherever I go, I try to pull others up and help the lost get found

I try to look beyond our differences to what makes us the same
A string that links us one to another
Though many hearts we are all one family
Our similarity makes us united
Our differences are part of what makes us great

Whatever we do, we do it in the name of love
Whatever we do, we do it in the name of peace

I looked up to the cross and down deep inside
I saw redemption and the shame I can't hide
I looked up to the heavens and down on the city streets
Now and then I glimpsed where hurt and healing meets
I looked from the four ends of the earth
And there I experienced a kind of rebirth
I looked from the richest to the poorest of there
Where I stood there was more to wealth than what I see
I saw that they were joyful, so warm and real
They lived with such enthusiasm; such zeal!
I looked up from my little world to see what awaited
I saw there a great big place so wonderfully created
I looked back and saw that things had shifted
I began to see how I was gifted
I looked to God and saw his Merciful Heart
And in my inmost being a change would start
I looked to God and saw his Precious Blood
And I was washed clean in that Holy Flood
I looked to God and saw his Body Broken
And I saw him with arms Held Open
I looked to God and felt a kind of Power
That remains every day until my Final Hour

You mean more to me than words can express,
Your eyes and your smile light up my world.
Your laughter makes my heart young and free,
Nothing will do to show how much you mean to me!
I'd give up the world to be a part of yours,
I'd stop the world to melt with you.

You complete me, my other self:
What I lack, you can provide.
You fill me up; you make me whole inside.
You understand what I think and how I feel.
I feel more comfortable and at ease when you are close,
We compliment and balance each other.
I treat you with love and care and great respect
For, as you are a part of me, what I do to you I also do to myself.
You are an answer to prayer, a blessing divine:
For when I was created, I swear God must have had you in mind!

If you saw all of me what would you say how would you feel
Some days it’s just a nightmare, but some days it seems all too real
I’m not as good as I’d like to be or how I might appear
If I’m not careful darkness creeps in and fills me with fear
It is a heavy thick blanket oppressing the light
It upsets me and I feel contrite

If you knew the secrets that dwell in the dark
And touched the faded scars that have made their mark
If you knew my sins and the things I’ve done wrong
Even though the difference between good and bad I’ve known all along
Could you know all of this and still choose to stay
Would it change anything would it turn you away?

There are memories I’d rather not relive
And sometimes I still find it hard to forgive
I have been at fault and I have failed before
Turned my back ran away or slammed the door
Could you go on with this knowing?
Would you still be okay if all of me was showing?

I am broken I am bruised may be down but I’m not out
While I have seen my share of troubles my spirit remains stout
My record isn’t spotless but I’ll often fight tooth and nail
My days are an adventure and my life a storied tale
I ask: when all is said and done
What will be your answer, could you be the one

I have wandered far and wide
I have shared laughter I’ve hung my head and cried
I have been in beautiful harmony and at times in discord
I have been despised sometimes and others I was adored
All this and more is part of who I am
A surprising lot in common with a little lamb

Prone to stray and get separated from the flock
Lost afraid and in trouble I find myself secured upon the rock
I know the voice of the one who leads me and who cares
He loves me still even when my soul is laid bare
Will you take me as I am and love me just the same?
This too I do for you to live as your love deserves: this will be my aim

The end of the day is drawing near;

The winter of my life: so cold, white, and barren.

The night is constantly pressing onward,

Dark is folding me in its wings.

Calling, softly insisting, inviting.

The tug (like that of the moon on the sea) it lulls.

  
Moving slowly towards it...

Closer....


I pause.


A small light has made itself known

What is this? What will happen? I wait.

Slowly starting to see something: pictures- moving like a movie?

Yes, I remember! These are my memories: what little is left of my world.

There are so many pictures: some good and bad, happy or sad,

Everything in between.



Spring:


Childhood days of fun and play, sports with dad in the yard,

Ice cream days with Grandpa,

And Grandma’s stories.

Tuck-ins, and good night kisses, momma cooking (YUM!)

And teenage years- full of rebellion and independence:

Searching high, low, everywhere. For identity and who I am.



Summer:


The joy! The burning passion! Of life and love in their prime.

So many changes of both bad and good: girls, loves, and many heart breaks.

Marriages.

Children.

(What a Roller-Coaster!)

Playing cards and drinking with “The Guys”

So busy being a good husband and (hopefully) a great dad.

Playing sports in the yard with my kids

Like my father did with me when I was young.



Fall:


The kids have gone off to college now...

Starting lives of their own.

Been to many a marriage and too many funerals

Of friends.

And people whose lives were cut short.

(they died so young….)

Relaxing at home and traveling too.

The kids now come to visit a few times a year.


Slowing down...


Coming         to                        r  e  s  t…. *



(ooooh: the midday nap in the worn comfy chair on the porch)

So nice and soft- sink in and slip away *(ahhh…)



Winter:


To end where we began:

Grandpa.

Treating grandkids to movies, ice cream (like my grandpa did with me).

Grandma’s passed away, a cane, still at home trying to stay sharp.

Trying

(and failing....)

Things blur and blend as the body falls apart- eyes, ears, legs, mind (a few).

Darkness of age clouds my being. Outlook is bleak and things are looking grim...



Never Surrender! And so-



I fight!

(or try)


But it’s no use...

So warm...

inviting....

I accept the end and what will very soon be.


The pictures stop. No more light. I step.


Still closer now



Feeling the pull. The pulse: as if the dark is alive! I step.

Standing at the edge of darkness. 1 breath and I step.

I am here. I smile: it is all over! Peace at last.




.....

p...e...a...c...e...

Be still, my soul, and open
For, in the silence, words are spoken
Soft and sometimes a whisper still
If we listen we just might hear God's will.

The spirit is a funny thing: a gentle quiet breeze
And powerful enough to bring me to my knees.
So when the spirit is moving, knocking at my heart
I am called to respond and to do my part.

It prompts, and it nudges, it calls me out when I've done wrong
And no matter where I go it always comes along.
It guides me, and teaches how to live love and act,
And it helps me to know what is lie and what is fact.

There are so many voices, my attention they all seek
I try to hear the spirit but it seems so small and weak.
How do I tell that it's the spirit that I should obey?
How can I be sure that it's not mine, but God's will and way?

Help me Lord to be open that in doing so I might find
A heart that beats for You alone, that I may respond in kind!

Lead us to the heart of the Father
Comfort us and show us the way
This is my son i whom I am pleased
Filled by the Spirit of God

In the body and the blood
You make us as one
Brothers and sisters all family
One in the Spirit of God

Into the desert for forty long days
Tempted and tried he remained
Faithful to the end
Led by the Spirit of God

From your neighborhood to the ends of the earth
We are sent out to share the good news
Share the love and the joy that we have
Sent by the Spirit of God

A lighthouse beacon in the stormy sea
A hand that reaches out for you and me
A rainbow stretching 'cross the sky
Hope in the Spirit of God

Out from the Ultimate Sacrifice
One man paid the greatest price
By water and blood the world redeemed
Saved by the Spirit of God

From clay and the salt of the earth
The breath of God created man
Christ died so we could rise with Him
Alive by the Spirit of God

We are his children the work of his hand
We are his sheep the flock of his land
We are his treasure our value unmatched
Loved by the Spirit of God

Many of us want to trust God to take care of our needs and we try to trust him, but in our humanity we fail and we try to take the burden on ourselves and away from God. We know that God is all powerful and works for our good, but it’s as if we’re afraid that he can’t or that he won’t. God tells us not to worry about getting what we need that the birds of the sky have shelter and are fed and the flowers bloom and grow and they do not plant or sow or make clothes and they are provided and cared for. And we are worth so much more than birds. In Jeremiah 29:11 Jesus says: “I know the plans I have for you” says the Lord. “Plans to prosper and not harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future”. Jesus, you don’t always give us what we want, but in your greatness and your wisdom you give us what we need. Sometimes, you ask us to wait or You say no in order to give us something far greater than what we asked. Sometimes it takes years for us to be able to look back and see that you really did provide for us even if it didn’t seem like it at the time. You also don’t expect us to sit back and do nothing at all. We are called to do the best we can with what we have and give it to you. In prayer, praise, patience, and faith you will provide the rest or bless and multiply what we have given you so we have enough.

Jesus help us trust in you that you will always provide us what we need. Help us also trust in the wisdom of your plan when we don’t understand or can’t see. Let us go forward in faith and love to give all that we have and bless and multiply it for us. You are good and if we are diligent and faithful when times are tough and we act with a right heart you will bless our offering. Jesus help us remember that you are enough, you are all we really need. Help us be truly satisfied with you. Be the shepherd of our lives and we will want for nothing more. Trusting in your Divine Providence we pray this and all things in Your name. Amen.

Look into my eyes Lord
Look deep into my soul.
See the work your hands have made
I see the cost that love has paid.
I gaze longingly into your eyes
And as you look right back at me
I am pierced as if by the nails.
As you hang ****** and broken,
In total surrender, you took the all;
You gave up everything so I could have it all.
Into your presence I come,
In this moment I will stay.
Let your fire fall like rain;
Hear me when I pray.
I turn back to you like the prodigal son
I ask for forgiveness, but it's already done.
I am wrapped in your cloak of grace
My soul is lifted on a cloud of praise.
In the rivers of your blood
Comes the waters of love:
Washing the earth and healing
A broken world, in need of feeling
Your peace and love and passion
And being good is back in fashion.
You satisfy the hungry heart
My soul longs for you and pains.
Like a man in the desert longs for rains
You are living water Lord; source of life and peace.
Help me surrender so that you may increase.
I come to do your will and I'm grateful for the gift
To be with you and seek the truth and then, in word, to lift
Your holy name to share the love I've found.
Take my feet and place them on solid, sacred ground
Walk with me as I try to walk this road
Help me bear, with patience, my load.
When I lose sight of the perspective,
Remind me gently the suffering you once bore.
Each day Lord, help me want you more.
I was lost and wandering, and you sought me out
I trust you Lord from within and from without.
You keep your promises, your covenant;
Help me fulfill my end of the deal.
I don't know what all you have in mind
But I am certain of one thing: it will be divine!

What was it like that very first Christmas? Cold, dark, ***** and smelly, but through all of that, the shining light, the fire of the Holy Spirit and the one who would reach through our dirtiness and smelliness to cleanse the world was born. There was peace, there was joy, there was love and most of all there was hope. Shepherds came from the fields nearby who, upon seeing the star and hearing the heaven's proclaim the good news of great joy, came swiftly to pay homage to the baby king. Born so low so to connect with us and our humanity and in order that he might one day be raised so as to raise us up to more than we can be. The journey to Bethlehem was long and hard. Did you know, did you have any idea what was going to happen to your baby boy? All that he was to do and all that he had to suffer? All of this happened so quickly. There wasn't any time to process any of it. Thinking about t, I am so overwhelmed and I didn't even go through it. But you, a young simple girl, kept all these things and silently reflected on the in your heart. How often do we hear news of something good or bad and simply react without thinking? Or how many of us take the time after a retreat, after being on the mountaintop with God, take the time to keep all these wonderful powerful moments and reflect on them in order to bring them with us back to the valley of our everyday lives? How many of us take the time to reflect on what we learned and try to apply that to our lives and help us to mature and grow as your son did at the home in Nazareth in stature and favor with both God and man? Mary, mother of God, help us to imitate your example and pause for a few moments to take in all that is around us and reflect on these things in our hearts and in our lives. Be with us, pray for us, and hold us in your arms and close to you always. We love you Mary. Thank you for your "Yes" and your incredible faith. May we have the grace and strength and courage to do the same. We ask this and all things through Christ our Lord, AMEN.