Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-31-2016 Luke 1:45

Luke 1:45

"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.""
‭‭
Do you ever have doubt? I think this is normal especially when going thru the actions with no results. Faith is doing what you know you should even when it doesn't seem likely.

God gave you talents and abilities to use for His glory. Do not let your unbelief get in the way. Have faith that God is leading you. As I like to say the good Lord got us this far, He will get us the rest of the way. God always fulfills His word!!

Dear Lord, you are so good to us, even in our trials you are good to us. Help us be the people you ask each of us to be, over come our unbelief and bring us home. Amen.

Enjoy the rest of the week and pray for each other, we are all called for His purpose.

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Monday, May 30, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-30-2016 Mark 12:10-11

Mark 12:10-11

"Have you not read this scripture passage: 'The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes'?"

In today's Gospel reading (Mark 12:1-12) Jesus foretells of His own death directly to those that would try and kill Him. Even with Jesus in their presence they didn't recognize God. When do we not recognize the Master being in our presence.

Slowing down to saver God's word and getting insight, It takes time and dedication, something I am hopefully learning to do. Our lives are in a way leased to us, we don't know when the lease is up but it will be up at some point. What are you doing with the vineyard that you were given? Is it producing fruit? Are you giving back to the One who leases it to you?

How you live your life makes such a difference to others. I didn't always know this but now I am beginning to see. If your faith is alive those around will become alive, if you are joyful, those around you will become joyful. Be the difference in the Church today, let others see your hope in eternity. Let the master harvest from your vineyard.

Dear Lord God we have so many benefits that we sometimes forget who gives them to us. Help us see how we can make a difference in the world around us. Help us be Your hands and feet, Your eyes and ears and sometimes Your voice. I ask this in Jesus name, amen.

Happy Memorial Day!

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Sunday, May 29, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-29-2016 John 6:51

John 6:51

"I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.""
‭‭
Who's will is stronger, yours or God's?  For most of us it is our will that takes charge.  Jesus by His living example showed us how to lay down His life so that we may eternal life.  Accepting Jesus is the beginning of faith not the end.  

When we receive the body and blood of Jesus, we are being fed spiritually. To others faiths it is symbolic not in ours, it is truly the flesh and blood of Jesus.  We receive Jesus into our being, we become what we eat.  Let His will take over and live with always room for more, and there will always be leftovers.   

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for our faith. Thank you for the hope for eternal life, to live in your presence.  May our own wills take a back seat to Your will.  May we be open to Your guidance in our lives.  May we truly understand what we are receiving in bread and wine today.  Amen.  

Meditation:

Oh, how painful it is to Me that souls so seldom unite themselves to Me in Holy Communion. I wait for souls, and they are indifferent toward Me. I love them tenderly and sincerely, and they distrust Me. I want to lavish My graces on them, and they do not want to accept them. They treat Me as a dead object, whereas My Heart is full of love and mercy (Sister Faustina Diary, 1447). 

My Prayer Response:

Lord Jesus, help me and all who receive You in Holy Communion to grow in greater trust and love, so we may receive You more tenderly. Lavish Your graces out upon us. May our communion with You truly be a "common - union - in - Christ" and give You great joy.



YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-28-2016 Jude 1:20

Jude 1:20

"But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the holy Spirit."
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Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.  What a blessing to have faith!  Your faith was given to you by God and handed on to you by others who had faith.  

If you think about it faith is the beginning of eternal life, can't have eternity without faith.   The Holy Spirit is always praying in us, leading us to truth and revealing to us His presence.   Faith builds upon faith in your journey, keep pushing forward, it is only the beginning!

Dear Lord God, thank you for Your Holy Spirit and our faith.  Without it we are lost at sea, a ship with out a rudder.  Guides us today to a fuller life in your presence, increase in us Your grace so we may pass the faith on to others.   I ask this in Christ Jesus, Amen. 

May the peace of Christ be with you and yours this Memorial Day weekend.  Others fought and died so we may have freedom to believe.  Honor them by fighting the Good fight.  

Meditation:

What you see in reality, these souls see through faith. Oh, how pleasing to Me is their great faith! You see, although there appears to be no trace of life in Me, in reality it is present in its fullness in each and every Host. But for Me to be able to act upon a soul, the soul must have faith. O how pleasing to Me is living faith! (Sister Faustina Diary, 1420)


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Friday, May 27, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-27-2016 1 Peter 4:13

1 Peter 4:13

"But rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice exultantly."
‭‭
You ever just hope that everything was perfect?  As you know we don't get many days like that, there is always some challenge or trial that we face all the time.

Jesus was no different, in fact, He knew He had a limited amount of time and He was under attack.  Each day has its trials, this is what makes you stronger.  God is preparing you for His glory so take comfort in knowing you are loved by God almighty.

Dear Lord, You love each of us so much, help us over come our trials in life.  May we decrease so you can increase.  Grow our faith and trust in you so we may glorify you in our daily lives.  Be our hope when we are in need and guide us to ever lasting life.  Amen.  

A great 2 minute video with a ton of meaning, enjoy.  https://youtu.be/RTPcGoHE5mE

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Thursday, May 26, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-26-2016 Mark 10:49

Mark 10:49

"Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." So they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take courage; get up, he is calling you.""
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There are many things that can blind us, our own ambition, our desires, our fear, our ego, greed. In ways we are all blind to what goes on around us. Sometimes we just react to what we think is happening but we can't see because we are not looking.

Jesus is calling you, He calls you to a life of holiness. We all have the desire to be holy just fall short each day. Slow down and see what is blinding you. The blind man called out to Jesus, "Son of David, have pity on me". Call out to Jesus and you will hear, "Take courage; get up, He is calling you."

Dear Lord God, I ask for your help today, show me where I am not seeing. Be in my eyes and ears as I perceive what is going on. May I learn to slow down and be more open to your calling in my life. Thank you for another day to try again, in Jesus name, Amen.

http://dynamiccatholic.com/confirmation/preview/session-12-1/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWlRrNFl6VTNZemcyTkRreSIsInQiOiJ2eFRRbHlrbVFGTW0zU1FVTTl4bFpCYlRcL3FUVDZ4UjNOSXlucDB3R3M5MmRLd01adXVzaVcrQmEzek1Xd1hSbmVRODJvcmVFSFwvazNWQm9ZeW5qR3cyQldsU1lLUWY5R0RHVUtuSkM5TDZ3PSJ9


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-25-2016 1 Peter 1:22

1 Peter 1:22

"Since you have purified yourselves by obedience to the truth for sincere mutual love, love one another intensely from a [pure] heart."
‭‭
Mutual love leads to obedience to the word of Christ.  We don't get to pick and choose what truths we believe and which ones we don't.  Obedience is a pretty strong word along with purify.  

How do we purify our own selves?  Confessions is the only way I know how to be purified.  Obedience to God's word is a cleansing, it is acknowledging that God has the power and authority over you and not the other way around.  Be obedient to the word of God and move one step closer today.  

A great talk by Father Ricardo on the church's teaching on confession. Worth the time.  https://avemariaradio.net/audio-archive/christ-is-the-answer-may-19-2016/
Ave Maria Radio is a listener supported 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All rights reserved

Dear Lord God, you know our pains and needs help us today be obedient to your word and live according to Your teachings.  Show us how we can become better citizens in your kingdom.  May we praise you Lord today with our lives and may you answer the petitions of our heart.  I ask this through Your most glorious Som, Jesus Christ. 

"My daughter, write that it pains Me very much when religious souls receive the Sacrament of Love merely out of habit, as if they did not distinguish this food. I find neither faith nor love in their hearts. I go to such souls with great reluctance. It would be better if they did not receive Me (Diary Sister Faustina 1288)."



YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-24-2016 1 Peter 1:15

1 Peter 1:15

"but, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in every aspect of your conduct,"
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What does it mean to be holy? Does it mean you walk around preaching all the time or pointing out others faults - I don't think so. To be always praying? Yes but not in the normal way of praying.

If you look at the saints that went before us, they didn't live for themselves. They lived for God in all that they did. Their lives were a pleasing offering to Him. As you live your life today, is this were God wants you? Are you living it for Him? I think this is being holy at least by the living examples we all have in our lives. Today is your offering to God, be holy.

Dear Jesus, you showed us the way by living your life. It is You that is our example, it is You that we want to please. Bring peace to those in need this morning, help them see how they can be holy in their daily routine. Help us think of You through out the day and help us honor You in actions. I ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Monday, May 23, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-23-2016 1 Peter 1:6-7

1 Peter 1:6-7

"In this you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
‭‭
We are all tested by fire to see if our faith in the risen Lord is genuine. I heard a good homily yesterday that spoke of fire. The love of Christ is always there, when we remove ourselves from this fire, our faith begins to fade. The fire is always there but we don't feel it.

There are times in our lives when we don't feel like it. Love isn't a feeling, it is an action, you do it anyway. Moving towards God feeds our Spirit, it gives us hope in eternity. Offer your trials and sufferings to Him even when you just don't feel like it. The feeling will return because you have to feel the heat if you are in the fire.

Dear Lord God, I love you with all my heart, help me be a witness to that love especially those closest to me. May I never forget what my calling in life is and may I honor you today in actions, I pray for those that are in the heat of battle, may they turn to you in their time of need. Amen.

Lord Jesus, may the Eucharist be my power in the battle of life and the power of my intercession for souls. As I receive You in Holy Communion, help me to offer my little sufferings to You for the sake of souls - Sister Faustina.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Sunday, May 22, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-22-2016 James 5:5

Romans 5:5

"and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us."

Does your heart not burn for Him? When I sit still and just be in His presence, my heart is different. There is a strong sense of God in my being. Hope is eternal and knowing God is with us, there is nothing to be concerned about.

Life is what you make of it, but living with Christ is over the top. Maybe you ain't living with Christ yet, ask and you shall receive. You have not because you haven't asked. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord, the Holy Spirit will fill your heart to over flowing!!

Lord God, thank you for giving us your gifts, thank you for your teachings and thank you for hope in our hearts. Fill us with your spirit Lord so we may glorify you. May peace fill us with joy and the love of Christ pour forth from us, Amen.

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your constant presence in my heart, even when my heart is veiled with darkness. May I not grieve You by doubting that You are with me always. - prayer from Sister Faustina
‭‭


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Saturday, May 21, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-21-2016 James 5:14-15 Mark 10:15

James 5:14-15

""Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven."

Mark 10:15

"Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it."
‭‭
‭‭The sacraments of the Catholic Church are in the word of God. In today's readings it speaks of both the anointing of the sick and confession. Why do other faiths oppose these teachings of the Church?

In Jesus's own words, He tells us we need child like faith. Children are so open to listening, following and believing. Investigate it for your self, the word of God speaks to you, be child like with curiosity and awe and amazement. Don't know how to do this, watch children learning and imitate them. Don't be stuck in your old ways.

Dear Heavenly Father, there is a whole new world out there for us to explore. Open our spirit to the newness of your living word. Help us become like children and be amazed. Give us those aha moments and speak to our spirit. We are good at feeding the flesh, may we be great at feeding the Spirit. In Your Sons most holy name, Jesus Christ, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Friday, May 20, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-20-2016 Mark 10:9

Mark 10:9

"Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate.""
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These are the words of Jesus, it is straight forward and to the point.  On the other hand the world is telling us the opposite, take the easy way out.  There is so much noise out there that no one really has time to think any more, they just react.  

God doesn't give us a way out at least an easy one.  Bring God into the union, spend time with Him.  Turn the noise off and let Him guide you.  I read something recently when you have a problem that you can't seem to fix, try fasting.  God joined you, He has a role to play as well.  

Dear Lord, You are all knowing and I thank you for your blessings.  May the Holy Spirit be our guide today.  May we live life to the fullest with you at the center.   Help us turn off the noise Lord and heal marriages that are in conflict.  May today be another good day, in Jesus name, Amen.  



YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-19-2016 James 5:3

James 5:3

"your gold and silver have corroded, and that corrosion will be a testimony against you; it will devour your flesh like a fire. You have stored up treasure for the last days."
‭‭
What are your priorities in life? We spend so much time producing and growing our wealth, or just surviving we have little or no time for God in our lives. What if we reversed our priorities and focused on God.

God needs to be first in your life, He will not devour your flesh. It is He who gives you life. Slow down a bit and just spend time with Him. Find a Church and just go in and sit in His presence. What a difference this treasure will make in your life!

Lord God, we are so busy running around we sometimes forget about You. Help us slow down and let us see what is important in life. Make your presence known to us when we come to Your house. Help us see we are passing our habits onto our children, make them good habits. I ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-18-2016 James 4:17

James 4:17

"So for one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, it is a sin."
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Right and wrong, in today's culture these lines are getting blurred but it still doesn't change.  In your heart you know the difference.  Sometimes the right thing is to do is nothing, to ignore someone's attack.   I ask myself what would Jesus do?

Sin is the easy way out, it has the appearance of feeling good but produces the opposite.   What areas of your life do you need to do the right thing?  Ask for help and then move towards God.  Pray for guidance.  

Dear Lord God, we get entrapped by the world not understanding how it impacts our future.  Help us live up to who You created us to be.  Help us do the right thing all the time.  I thank you for another day to get it right.  May we all live up to our potential, in Jesus name, Amen. 

https://youtu.be/67wC6-kWWSo

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-17-2016 James 4:5-6

James 4:5-6

"Or do you suppose that the scripture speaks without meaning when it says, "The spirit that he has made to dwell in us tends toward jealousy"? But he bestows a greater grace; therefore, it says: "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.""
‭‭
Do you ever slow down and ask why you do certain things?  God gives us desires to achieve and do great things.   We were made in His image, it is when we believe it was us that accomplished these things when we get into trouble.  

Our own pride gets in the way of worshipping God.  All good things come from Him, it is He that blesses you.  Our lives are meant to be lived with a purpose, to be what God intended us to be and that is to be holy.  Humble yourself before God and thank Him for what you have, both the little and the much.  

Dear Lord, we begin another day to honor you, may we grow in faith a little more today.  May we put yesterday behind us and focus on today.  Bless those who are carrying their cross Lord, give them grace to carry on.  Allow them to strengthen others on their journey.  May we be humble of heart today, Amen.  



YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Monday, May 16, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-16-2016 James 3:18

James 3:18

"And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace."
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Have you ever forced your opinion upon someone that wasn't receptive? It doesn't take too long to figure out it doesn't work. The fruit it produces isn't peace, it can be the opposite.

The truth is the truth but we must be open to it. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. He never forced His ideas on others, He showed them and let them come to their own conclusions. He cultivated in peace and never plowed in anger.

Dear Lord God, as we begin another week, help us see where we need to change. Help us see how we can cultivate peace in our homes, our work, our families and our church. May we be living examples for others to find their way to You. I ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Sunday, May 15, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-15-2016 John 20:21

John 20:21

"[Jesus] said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.""
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Today is Pentecost Sunday, the day the disciples gathered together in one place and received the power of the Holy Spirit.  I am reminded this morning how we gain strength from each other and how the Holy Spirit renews the face of the earth.  

I was speaking to someone who always blesses himself before each meal, no matter who's company he is in, he does this.  This generates a conversation with a business acquaintance and now this acquaintance's family says a blessing before ever meal.  

It is simple daily actions that changes the world.  Just living your faith outwardly empowers others to have strength.  Jesus wants us to live our faith outwardly in small ways and big ways, sometimes with words.  

Dear Lord God, I thank you for the peace this morning.  I thank you for your vastness and seeing you in all things.  Help us see how in small ways we can go forth. Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.  Amen.  


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Saturday, May 14, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-14-2016 Psalms 113:7-8

Psalms 113:7-8

"He raises the lowly from the dust, lifts the poor from the ash heap, Seats them with princes, the princes of the his own people"

There is such a contrast between the way of the world, (seeking riches) and the way of God. Even when you attain the riches you are still not satisfied, in fact you are lowly and poor if God is not your treasure.

If you are poor in the world's eyes and your treasure is God you have everything that you need. You have been lifted up and you dine with the King of Kings.

Oh Heavenly Father thank you for your blessings today. Thank you for joy and peace in our lives. May we praise you all the day long. May our lives be our prayer to You today. I ask this through your Son Jesus Christ, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Friday, May 13, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-13-2016 John 21:15

John 21:15

"When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs.""
‭‭
How would you answer that question if Jesus asked you? We are not much different than Peter, fearful of speaking up because of what others think.

Jesus does ask you this question, what are the things that take priority in your life? Is it possessions, what about pride, self, status, money, comfort. I am sure Peter was uncomfortable but maybe that was Jesus's point. Be willing to make room for God and grow.

Lord God, you know us like no other, help us see, give us strength to love You more. Send us your Holy Spirit to help us grow. Open our hearts and minds to Your calling. Help us make room for you and to place you first in our lives. In our times of need may we hear You speaking to us. In Jesus name, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-12-2016 Acts 23:11

Acts 23:11

"The following night the Lord stood by him and said, "Take courage. For just as you have borne witness to my cause in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness in Rome.""
‭‭
Paul was a very determined man, he was given certain gifts and talents that were misapplied before he encountered Jesus. After His encounter with Jesus, he knew his path.

What we do in life echoes for eternity. It has consequences not only on our future but those we come in contact with. God is constantly speaking with you, are you listening. Paul found his purpose and changed water into wine.

Dear Heavenly Father, You created each of us for a Devine purpose, help us see our natural gifts and talents so we may glorify you. Give us strength Lord God to do what You ask of each of us and thank you for sending Your Holy Spirit to be our guide. In Jesus name, Amen.

http://dynamiccatholic.com/confirmation/preview/session-11-3/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWWpSbFpUVTVPRE5sWXpjNSIsInQiOiJzcVNGUlkxaEVGSHhnckdTaThacUJSS0xWUnUzK25rbE80TUJoK1dzSEM3RFkyNVl5b2VkcmRLdCt6SVBPVUV3bFZyRlZTWU1WRWxsNVJuZmkzSGs1eHJGU2NyVkpDcWU2QmdMYXhOaGxzbz0ifQ%3D%3D


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-11-2016 Psalms 47:2-3

Psalm 47:2-3 

"All you peoples, clap your hands; shout to God with joyful cries. For the Lord, the Most High, the awesome, is the great king over all the earth."

 

REFLECTION: by Andy N.

What a happy Psalm!  Many times we get caught up in the rigors of a hectic life and fail to see how fortunate we all are.  God loves us so much and provides so much for us, sometimes we take it for granted.  We get spoiled and want for more.  What we need to want more of is our devotion and praise for the One that is responsible for all we have.  Brothers and sisters, look around at this beautiful creations we live in.  One thing I have learned and it was and continues to be a long journey were I have complete trust in God's plan.  Putting your trust in God our Almighty Father is very liberating and I find a lot of inner peace with this trust.  God is my Teacher, my Advisor and my Friend.  Take that leap of faith because God is the awesome great King over all the earth.  I wish you a blessed day.

 

PRAYER:

With bended knees and a humble heart, I lay myself before You, O King of kings.  I trust in You completely and my soul cries out with joyful songs of praise.  You are my all and everything/  I trust in You, amen.

 

YBIC

 


1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-10-2016 Acts 20:24

Acts 20:24

"Yet I consider life of no importance to me, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to bear witness to the gospel of God's grace."
‭‭
How do you bear witness to the gospel of God's grace in your calling? Maybe you don't think you have a calling, I disagree. What you do is your calling, maybe you are an electrician, a banker, a secretary, a salesman, or retired, a father, a mother and my favorite a grand parent. You are a living example of God's grace.

Live lives of dedicated love in your daily lives, be joyful, have hope in your spirit. Give when it is unexpected, listen to your heart. In the words of St Francis of Assisi - "Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words."

Dear Lord, You have given us another day, may we recognize your presence in our lives. May we be living examples of your gospel. Lord thank you for your grace even when we are being challenged and thank you for your grace. Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Monday, May 9, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-9-2016 Acts 19:2

Acts 19:2

"He said to them, "Did you receive the holy Spirit when you became believers?" They answered him, "We have never even heard that there is a holy Spirit.""

As we read the Gospels and spend time in them, we learn about our faith and our spiritual journey. Alot of us take for granted but never fully understand God's teachings. Have you opened yourself to the Holy Spirit, do you make room for Him?

Much like the disciples that Paul is speaking with, we are baptized into the faith but are we open to the Holy Spirit. Do we acknowledge Him in our ever day lives? My message today is to be open to the Holy Spirit and hang on.

Dear Lord God, send us Your Holy Spirit and renew the face of the earth. Prepare us Lord God for the journey ahead. Give us faith to live the life you intended for us, strengthen us Lord God and help us see You in others. May we be a pleasing offering in your sight, I ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ, Amen.

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Sunday, May 8, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-9-2016 Luke 23:52-53

Luke 24:52-53

"They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and they were continually in the temple praising God."
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Our faith and spiritual well being is precious. It needs to be fed and not only on Sunday's. Have you experienced that great joy, do you still experience it?

Nourish your faith by feeding it, You are the body of Jesus, your faith is what others see. Are you continually in the temple praising Him? You do not have to be pious just loving others with eyes of compassion. Have a giving soul and see the need and fill it.

Dear Lord God, I thank you for your blessings and guidance. I thank you for the joy and the moments I am not always joyful. I need you Lord in my life and those in the world need You. May we be your eyes, your ears, your hands, your feet and your voice today. Amen

Have a blessed day!! And Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there.

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Saturday, May 7, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-7-2016 John 16:27

John 16:27

"For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have come to believe that I came from God."
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The love of God, what an overwhelming feeling to know you are loved by the Creator of the universe. It all starts with love, you must have love, God gives us all that we need. And love is all we really need.

Jesus came from God, He was born just like you. Be open to receive God's love, sit still, close your eyes and just be. You are perfectly made in God's eyes. His Son makes us pure to be in His presence, receive the love of Jesus and just be.

Dear Heavenly Father, You have sent us Your Son, He is our only hope for salvation. Help us overcome our own weaknesses and make room for more of Your Son. Let us feel Your love for us. Give us an over whelming joy and spirit. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory for ever and ever, Amen.


YBIC
YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Friday, May 6, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-6-2016 Acts 18:9

Acts 18:9

"One night in a vision the Lord said to Paul, "Do not be afraid. Go on speaking, and do not be silent,"
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Do we have to be political correct and follow society? If we continue as a people and do not speak what we believe then we become part of the problem. God is telling us to speak up.

Paul, went into a community where he knew no one and started to change their thoughts by preaching God's word in words and actions. You have the same ability, use it.

Dear Lord God, I thank you for a beautiful day, I thank you for the love in my heart. I ask for your help and guidance today to see your will and the ability to do your will. In Jesus name, amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-5-2016 Luke 24:45

Luke 5:5

"Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures. And he said to them, "Thus it is written that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day"
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You ever been stuck in a fog and just don't know what to do? Seek Him, seek the Father, this is what Jesus did. Our lives should be dependent upon God but we let life beat us up. We think that it should be perfect but it isn't.

Jesus, our example, didn't have it any different but He always honored His Father, the One who sent Him. How do you think God felt when He watched them kill His Son? He could of done anything but He loved us that much that He forgives us. God loves YOU, I pray you see that.

Lord God, we question you without understanding, help us see. I pray for understanding, I pray that hearts are softened that You may enter. Give us hope God, we are Your body. May the love of Christ penetrate hearts for Your glory. I ask this through Jesus Christ, Amen.

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Daily Thoughts 5-4-2016 Acts17:28

Acts 17:28

"For 'In him we live and move and have our being,' as even some of your poets have said, 'For we too are his offspring.'"
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I am reminded this morning how alive we are in Christ. Slow down and spend time with your Father. He made you, it is He that gives to you! Depending upon where you are at in your Christian walk will determine if you work on deadening your senses or work on living the life that God intended for you.

As you live your life today, think of your Father God. Notice your surroundings, read His word and watch life come alive. There is much to be learned and He needs you fully engaged, remember you are the son/daughter of The King!

Lord God, I pray I am engaged today in my surroundings. Help me be the person You intended. Help me live the life that You have intended for me. You are worthy of all our love God, may we live that each day, in Jesus name, Amen.


YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Daily thoughts Hebrews 13:16 5-3-2016

Hebrews 13-16

"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have; God is pleased by sacrifices of that kind."
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I am reminded this morning of the many gifts I have been given.   Life is different today, there is an inner peace that words can not explain.  What we have been given, we are asked to give it away.  

The world teaches to take as much as you can,the world is your oyster.  When in fact God asks us to leave more than we take, to give back and give of yourself.  

My journey started much like yours I imagine through an ACTS weekend.  Please see below and give if you can.  Today it will help this ministry spread its wings to others that are searching and are in need.   Hit the donate button and praise God for your blessings.  

As you know, ACTS Missions touches souls by spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the ACTS Retreats. Our goal is to raise $13,000 this year. This money can be used to help pay for missioning trips like our latest retreat to Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Lexington, Kentucky. 

Donate Now
Join us on May 3rd, The Big Give S.A., and help us win additional prize money. By partnering with The Big Give, ACTS Missions will have dozens of chances to maximize your gift! By making a donation during The Big Give SA, your $10 donation could help us win extra prize money. 


The prize opportunities don't stop there, though. ACTS Missions will receive 2 matching gifts for donations given to us through The Big Give SA on May 3rd! And at the end of the night, we can win additional prizes by bringing in the most donors during the event. 
Every little bit counts and you can help us increase our odds. Together, we hope to raise $13,000 and we are counting on your help! Follow us on Facebook so you can share in the excitement of the giving day and remember to give May 3rd.

God Bless

YBIC

1 John 4:4b
"The one that is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."