December 31 Echoes of Eternity They said unto Him, Rabbi (which is to say, being…

December 31 Echoes of Eternity
They said unto Him, Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master), where dwellest thou? He saith unto them, Come and see.
John 1:38,39
The way before you is a good way. You do not need to see the distant views, but keep your eye on the present choices. I have not called you to be a purposeless wasteland, but to be a fruitful field, to bear fruit for My kingdom. You do not need to know where or how this will come about. Your pride must not be fed in the process. But I will tell you this—you do not need to fear being left adrift or
cast aside. Those are thoughts of self, and they have no place in our relationship. So be about My business. Put aside the murmurings of your old nature, your yearnings for gratification which you sought in “place” and “respect.” Let go these things for My sake, and each time you feel a wound, bring it to me for forgiveness. Pride dies hard, so don’t be surprised that it is still struggling for life in you.

December 31 Echoes of Eternity They said unto Him, Rabbi (which is to say, being…

December 31 Echoes of Eternity
They said unto Him, Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master), where dwellest thou? He saith unto them, Come and see.
John 1:38,39
The way before you is a good way. You do not need to see the distant views, but keep your eye on the present choices. I have not called you to be a purposeless wasteland, but to be a fruitful field, to bear fruit for My kingdom. You do not need to know where or how this will come about. Your pride must not be fed in the process. But I will tell you this—you do not need to fear being left adrift or
cast aside. Those are thoughts of self, and they have no place in our relationship. So be about My business. Put aside the murmurings of your old nature, your yearnings for gratification which you sought in “place” and “respect.” Let go these things for My sake, and each time you feel a wound, bring it to me for forgiveness. Pride dies hard, so don’t be surprised that it is still struggling for life in you.

December 30 Echoes of Eternity The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: He sh…

December 30 Echoes of Eternity
The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: He shall preserve thy soul.
Psalm 121:7
I will show you the way. You do not know what lies ahead, but I do. It will be well, for I will be with you. Waste no time in idle speculation or vain regret. Live today in My present, merciful love, for I am with you, My child—I am with you.

New reading device for Christmas? Fill it up with some good books from our big e…

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December 29 Echoes of Eternity The Lord is good to all; and His tender mercies a…

December 29 Echoes of Eternity
The Lord is good to all; and His tender mercies are over all His works.
Psalm 145:9
In My mercy there is provision for your every need. My ways seem strange to you, and sometimes you rebel against them. But in so doing, you are rebelling against My mercy.
A frightened bird can do itself much harm in trying to escape the loving attention of a well-intentioned person. Even so, you can bring harm to yourself in “kicking against the pricks” of My mercy when you don’t recognize it.
This world calls such acceptance unreality, “Pollyanna-ish.” But I call it a pearl of great price, a treasure hid in the field of your life—a trust like Mary’s which allowed My purpose to proceed without hindrance or delay. Remember, My child, My tender mercies are over all My works. In My mercy there is provision for your every need.

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099874

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099874


Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Cantor The musical color of Epiphany This coming Sunday is the Feast of the Epiphany. This is the day on which we celebrate the arrival of the three Wisemen at the manger, who come to adore Christ and offer their gifts. For many centuries, it has also been a day on which there are pageants acted out within the liturgy to show the arrival of these Wisemen. [ 246 more words. ]

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song

By Cantor

The musical color of Epiphany

This coming Sunday is the Feast of the Epiphany. This is the day on which we celebrate the arrival of the three Wisemen at the manger, who come to adore Christ and offer their gifts. For many centuries, it has also been  a day on which there are  pageants acted out within the liturgy to show the arrival of these Wisemen.

The more ancient mystery plays employed some of these Epiphany chants. The Gradual — “All those from Sheba shall come” — creates a marvelous musical scenario, depicting the landscape through which this royal procession traveled.  The first word “Omnes” (All) is set to a chant which slowly rises and descends through mode. Then, the next two words “de Saba”  (from Sheba) similarly rises and falls, but rises higher and descends even  more slowly.  It is easy to imagine in these sounds, the hills of sand that these desert travelers encountered which made for some difficult travel. Within the next phrase, the chant quickly ascends even higher as it speaks of the incense given to Jesus. Finally, the chant explodes upward on the text “Arise and Shine” as though the Wisemen could no longer contain their praises after such an arduous, yet thrilling, pilgrimage.

This Gradual is one of the most famous chants in all of the Gregorian repertory. From a musical point of view, each successive phrase is an elegant outgrowth of the previous one, climaxing on the words “illuminate” and “Lord.” It is the astounding wedding of this musical structure to the text that makes the chant so colorful and so easily understood! It is the musical color of Epiphany.

The Community of Jesus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit for image: New Liturgical Movement: What is a Mystery?: Epiphany or the … www.newliturgicalmovement.org1600 × 1086Search by image Epiphany or the Manifestation of the Divine
 

December 28 Echoes of Eternity For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed…

December 28 Echoes of Eternity
For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, . . . All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
Mark 7:21,23.
Child, the distractions of your mind are the fruit of your rebellion. For years you have thought that your mind is your private possession, not realizing that the adversary was using it as a “play-ground.” You come to Me, desiring a quiet and settled dialogue with Me. You find instead a veritable crowd of extraneous thoughts and images seeking and finding entrance into your “side” of the dialogue.
Confess and yield up these contrary intruders quickly and return to Me. In quietness and peace you shall possess your soul. There is much work to be done here. Think soberly about these things if you really desire to go on with Me in these meetings. Do not imagine that you have progressed far in this. Remain keenly aware of where you are coming from and how far you have to go.

December 27 Echoes of Eternity For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; a…

December 27 Echoes of Eternity
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.
Psalm 100:5
The generations rise and pass away before Me. You see and experience sadness as your own generation draws nearer to the grave. Soon, very soon, you will all be forgotten by the living. Only a few from each generation are remembered. But I do not forget. These brief years on earth—with their sorrows, hopes, and joys—are not the whole of My gift of life.
I am the God of the living—and My gift of life goes on for those who come to Me for life. My care and My love do not end with the grave—so do not look with sad eyes at the brevity of your life here. Open them to the beauty of holiness and grace. Let these final years be both a finishing and a beginning—for My gift of life is an unending one for My own.

December 26 Echoes of Eternity For with thee is the fountain of life: in Thy lig…

December 26 Echoes of Eternity
For with thee is the fountain of life: in Thy light shall we see light.
Psalm 36:9
Look to the sunrise! Look to the day-dawn. Turn from the darkness, do not dwell on the shadows of the night. My glory is in the dawn. My way is open. There is light on your path—the light of truth and the sure word of My promise. O My child, rejoice in the light. Cast away dark thoughts and fear-laden burdens, and be a light-follower. Those who walk with Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the Light of life. Look to the sunrise!

When Heaven and Earth Converge http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099846

When Heaven and Earth Converge http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099846


When Heaven and Earth Converge | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Sr. Nun Other At Christmas, we have the opportunity to dwell in the fruition of this beautiful imagery: Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. (Psalm 85:10) We kneel at a manger to discover a mystery, a holy riddle, beyond human reasoning. He is Mary##039;s son, entrusted to Joseph, a carpenter from Nazareth. He is God##039;s son, sung to by angels and visited by kings.

When Heaven and Earth Converge

By Sr. Nun Other

At Christmas, we have the opportunity to dwell in the fruition of this beautiful imagery: Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. (Psalm 85:10)  We kneel at a manger to discover a mystery, a holy riddle, beyond human reasoning. He is Mary’s son, entrusted to Joseph, a carpenter from Nazareth. He is God’s son, sung to by angels and visited by kings. He is the reconciliation of all that divides us, and, if we follow his footsteps, the one who makes us whole.

The Community of Jesus

December 25 Echoes of Eternity Having made known unto us the mystery of His will…

December 25 Echoes of Eternity
Having made known unto us the mystery of His will.
Ephesians 1:9
Quiet, My child! Be quiet before the Mystery. Silence becomes you as you think with awe on what I have done. My presence is an oasis of peace in this angry, troubled world. Mankind has yet to learn to be silenced before My Mystery. Eternity does not enter the thoughts of the angry soul. Let My haven of peace, the lowly stable, be a refuge from your anger and ambitions. Quiet, My child, and think on the Mystery of the ages—and be at peace.

Christmas Morning: Tolling bells walked us through hallowed hours while sun and…

Christmas Morning:
Tolling bells walked us through hallowed hours
while sun and I kept leisured pace with time,
as through by courtesy of bells we claim
time as ours. Light itself was washed by rain
on Christmas eve. Time, heedlessly, neglects
its vastness—steps serene to measured tolls.
Space, swollen to full, sways as one elect,
at tilt of bell, with sun and monks to stroll.
—Paul Quenon

Christmas Morning: Tolling bells walked us through hallowed hours while sun and…

Christmas Morning:
Tolling bells walked us through hallowed hours
while sun and I kept leisured pace with time,
as through by courtesy of bells we claim
time as ours. Light itself was washed by rain
on Christmas eve. Time, heedlessly, neglects
its vastness—steps serene to measured tolls.
Space, swollen to full, sways as one elect,
at tilt of bell, with sun and monks to stroll.
—Paul Quenon

Christmas Morning: Tolling bells walked us through hallowed hours while sun and…

Christmas Morning:
Tolling bells walked us through hallowed hours
while sun and I kept leisured pace with time,
as through by courtesy of bells we claim
time as ours. Light itself was washed by rain
on Christmas eve. Time, heedlessly, neglects
its vastness—steps serene to measured tolls.
Space, swollen to full, sways as one elect,
at tilt of bell, with sun and monks to stroll.
—Paul Quenon

Creation Longings http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099841

Creation Longings http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099841


Creation Longings | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Melodious Monk Imagine, All the trees of the forest singing for Joy. From the great Sequoia##039;s of the Redwood forest to the scrub pines along the Cape Cod highways, imagine what all tree##039;s singing might sound like? Will they be beautiful? Will they make audible words? Imagine, The earth being opened and budding forth the Savior, all creation being in attendance. [ 50 more words. ]

Creation Longings

By Melodious Monk

Imagine, All the trees of the forest singing for Joy. From the great Sequoia’s of the Redwood forest to the scrub pines along the Cape Cod highways, imagine what all tree’s singing might sound like?  Will they be beautiful? Will they make audible words?

Imagine, The earth being opened and budding forth the Savior, all creation being in attendance.

Imagine, All of our longings, deepest desires and emptiness–reconciled, vanished.

Imagine, That today, Blessed are all the poor in spirit, for Light is shed upon the righteous and Joy on the upright in heart.

Imagine,  The possibilities for hope this year. For today, Hodie Christus Natus Est!

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December 24 Echoes of Eternity Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eterna…

December 24 Echoes of Eternity
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called.
I Timothy 6:12
This is My word to you today, My child. Keep diligently what I have committed to you. The time is short. The days are evil. Look for the manifestation of My glory. Put away childish ways—and let your faith in Me grow more childlike. Deny your desire for vindication and acceptance. Quell your appetite for place and power. Take a seat among the lowly—and there you will find sweet companionship
with Me.
Remember, My child, that when I came to earth, it was in a stable that My mother gave me birth. Honor and love her—for her suffering and faithful patience. Let her be an example of the soul that finds favor with God. I still dwell among the lowly in heart. There you can always count on finding Me.

The last O Antiphon for Great Advent is 'O Emmanuel', which means 'God with Us'….

The last O Antiphon for Great Advent is ##039;O Emmanuel##039;, which means ##039;God with Us##039;. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F73KJTHgvrA


Great Advent – O Sapientia

December 17 #quot;O Wisdom, Who didst come out of the mouth of the Most High, reaching from end to end and ordering all things mightily and sweetly:…

December 23 Echoes of Eternity In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot l…

December 23 Echoes of Eternity
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.
Titus 1:2
I am with you, My child, in all the circumstances you encounter. I am with you for good, and for your good. You need not fear the changes—but learn the blessing of childlike trust in Me.
What you call the “future” is all known to Me, and I work in the “present” to bring about My divine purpose. Small things and
great—all fit into a pattern leading to My goal. Take care to be faithful. Expect answers to your prayers. You have not really begun to learn the power I have entrusted through believing prayer. I am the Source of all good things—and that includes “glad surprises” along the way.

December 22 Echoes of Eternity This grace is given, to make all men see what is…

December 22 Echoes of Eternity
This grace is given, to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Ephesians 3:9–11
As you draw near to the commemoration of My birth, I want you to see why there is so little information given about its details. The human mind craves particulars. But My coming among you is a Mystery—and must remain wrapped in mystery if it is to convey its deepest truth. So do not be misled into thinking that more facts mean more truth. Let the mystery remain—and wonder.

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099813

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4099813


Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Cantor The introit for the first Sunday of Advent began with a beautiful, upward sweeping intonation on the words #quot;Ad te levavi animam meam#quot; (To Thee I lift up my soul). Similarly, the introit for the final Sunday of Advent — #quot;Rorate caeli desuper#quot; (Drop down from Heaven above) — quickly rushed upward to the highest notes of the mode. [ 128 more words. ]

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song

By Cantor

The introit for the first Sunday of Advent began with a beautiful, upward sweeping intonation on the words “Ad te levavi animam meam” (To Thee I lift up my soul).  Similarly, the introit for the final Sunday of Advent — “Rorate caeli desuper” (Drop down from Heaven above) —  quickly rushed upward to the highest notes of the mode. Then, it slowly descended, offering a softened image of the text “et nubes pluant justum” (and rain down the Just One).

Sunday introits have the function of setting the stage for the Eucharist of the day as well as the week to follow.  They can also tell us the story of an entire liturgical season. In the case of Advent, we began with lifting our souls to God. That was followed by the announcement that “The King is coming” and our response should be great rejoicing! Finally, we heard the gentlest of all the antiphons in which the Heavens were implored to rain down “the Just One,” Jesus, whose birth we celebrate this week.

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Credit for image:New Liturgical Movement
americanizing1.rssing.com563 × 307

The 5th O Antiphon of Great Advent is 'O Oriens', which means 'O Day Star'. http…

The 5th O Antiphon of Great Advent is ##039;O Oriens##039;, which means ##039;O Day Star##039;. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkAW7_hWvLU


Great Advent – O Oriens

December 21 #quot;O Dawn of the East, Brightness of the Light Eternal and Sun of Justice, come and enlighten them that sit in darkness and in the shadow…

December 21 Echoes of Eternity Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same…

December 21 Echoes of Eternity
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
I Corinthians 12:4
The gifts I give may seem strange to you, My child. But they are expressions of My love and mercy. Sometimes I give the gift of suffering with Me—a privilege I offer to those who can bear it. You cannot understand this mystery with your natural mind any more than you can understand how My death on the cross can bring salvation to the world. But your spirit can affirm My goodness in what
I bring or allow—for hidden within it all is the gift of My love.
Your gift-giving has a mixture of good and bad in it. You are interested in bringing joy and happiness to your loved ones, but you also know that your gifts fall wide of the mark. They can only bring pleasure for a season—and a pleasure mixed with dissatisfaction. I do not let such worries interfere with My gifts, because I know the end for which I give them is good and will work eternal joy in My children when they have accomplished their goal.

December 20 Echoes of Eternity Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father,…

December 20 Echoes of Eternity
Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 1:2
Freely have I forgiven you and freely have I accepted you in My heart. Your unbelief robs you of the peace My acceptance is designed to give you, and your doubt feeds and is fed by self-concern. Even your contrition over your lack of faith turns inward and bears no fruit. I keep telling you this because you continue to harbor the wrong kinds of doubts. Cleansing the inside of the cup involves throwing away—discarding—these empty and fruitless questions.
Keep praising My goodness and allow Me to lead you in your present relationships—that My purpose may yet be fulfilled.

December 19 Echoes of Eternity And he [Paul] said, Who art thou, Lord? And the L…

December 19 Echoes of Eternity
And he [Paul] said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
Acts 9:5
My will is peace. Peace amid strife and peace growing out of strife. When your will is aligned with Mine and in harmony with Mine, there is a settled peace that nothing can destroy. When your will is contrary, set on its own direction, there is no inward peace, however calm the outward circumstances.
The real strife—that which produces stress—comes from the lack of inward peace. The hypertension of My children is frequently related to this unresolved inner conflict. Strive to enter this rest, this “peace that passes understanding.” Stay open to My truth, however it comes, and do not fight to have your own way. The price is too high for you, and the results are not worth what they cost.

The Complexity of Love

By Sr. Nun Other

Christmas decorating is low on my list of favorite activities. Somewhere around a visit to the dentist. My expectations are so high, my desire to create beauty so intense, that I’m certain to disappoint myself. Last night, I placed, replaced, and repositioned three decorative Christmas pillows on a bench. After a half hour of this, I realized there was no perfect that was perfect enough. But my building frustration led to a re-thinking of, “What is it I’m really looking for?”

Anticipation and expectation come with the Christmas territory and are worthy attributes. When rightly directed and defined, they lead to faith, hope, and a joyful reunion with all who gathered on that holiest of nights. They speak of someone achieving great things of which we’re the beneficiaries of inheritance. Candles in the window, trees dressed in light and shining tinsel, evergreen wreaths on doors — all are invitations, our warm welcomes, to the One that truly matters.

The Community of Jesus

During this last week before Christmas, monasteries around the world sing "O Ant…

During this last week before Christmas, monasteries around the world sing #quot;O Antiphons#quot; at the evening service of Vespers. Each night these special Gregorian chants are sung, describing the coming Savior with a name given in Scripture.


Great Advent – O Adonai

December 18 #quot;O Adonai, and Leader of the house of Israel, Who didst appear to Moses in the flame of the burning bush, and didst give unto him the Law on Sina…

December 18 Echoes of Eternity Wherefore, as the Holy Spirit saith, Today if ye…

December 18 Echoes of Eternity
Wherefore, as the Holy Spirit saith, Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.
Hebrews 3:7,8
My word to you is this: Today if you hear My word, do not harden your heart. The encrustation of self-defense is like corrosion on metal. It forms a protective and insulating barrier against the truth. In the meantime its corrosive effect is also at work, tearing down even the good that has already been done. This is why I said in the Scripture, “The latter state is worse than the first.” The deadness, torpor, the inability to be inwardly moved—these are indicators that
damage has already been done.
There is no sin that does a more deadly work to the soul than hardening the heart. So I say again, “Today if you hear My word, do not harden your heart. He that has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Perfect Wine http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088389

Perfect Wine http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088389


Perfect Wine | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Melodious Monk Striving to be perfect is a crippling way to live. For me it##039;s a compulsive attempt to cover up all the inadequacies I feel about myself. Being free of this drive is largely why I was drawn to the Christian walk in the first place. But to this day, I find this addiction very difficult to give up. [ 188 more words. ]

Perfect Wine

By Melodious Monk

Striving to be perfect is a crippling way to live. For me it’s a compulsive attempt to cover up all the inadequacies I feel about myself. Being free of this drive is largely why I was drawn to the Christian walk in the first place. But to this day, I find this addiction very difficult to give up. I want life to be black and white. I want there to be a textbook that lists the right ways and the wrong ways to do things — then I can master the text book and get straight A’s!  The problem is that life doesn’t work like a textbook exam. I know it sounds silly, but what may be more silly, is that day after day I fall into the same trap of trying to drive my own life!  That’s a lot of pressure to get straight A’s, and try to stay one step ahead of whatever might be coming next in life.

It can be terrifying to try and follow, to not know the plan ahead, or have all the answers for the next move. But it is also thrilling, exciting, relaxing, and necessary if we want to walk with Jesus. I’m reminded of His words, “I am the vine, and you are the branches.” Let’s not have our arrogance lie to us and tell us we need to be the vine also.  For through His vine, we are offered a taste of the very best wine.

The Community of Jesus

An insightful review by Publishers Weekly on Timothy Verdon's new book, Art & Pr…

An insightful review by Publishers Weekly on Timothy Verdon##039;s new book, Art #amp; Prayer.
#quot;Throughout [this book] he demonstrates not only mastery of his topics but also a love of great art and deep faith. The result is a visual and verbal feast for contemplation and study.#quot;
—Publishers Weekly
http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-1-61261-572-1

December 17 Echoes of Eternity And it shall come to pass, that like as I have wa…

December 17 Echoes of Eternity
And it shall come to pass, that like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the Lord.
Jeremiah 31:28
My child, the times and the time are in My hands. I am never late, and I keep watch on those who are Mine. The insignificant things that pass your notice are all part of My timing. I want you to become more aware of these small evidences that I put before you. They can strengthen your faith and trust in Me. Become aware of the structure of each day, for in that structure I am at work—for you
and for everyone involved. Coming and going, present and absent— these are all part of that structure.
You wonder why I do not tell you more. Each “small” word carries the seed of change and growth—and I expect your cooperation in responding to each one. You could not fruitfully handle more than I am giving you. “Despise not the day of small beginnings”—just begin.

The Forerunner http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088386

The Forerunner http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088386


The Forerunner | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Renaissance Girl John the Baptist astounds me. His entire existence was about Jesus. And not just in the way we endeavor to #quot;live for Jesus#quot; — but literally — all about Him, from the moment John leaped in his mother##039;s womb at the sound of Mary##039;s voice (perhaps eager to get started on his task), to the moment he submitted to the will of God and baptized Christ (despite his humble protest that it should be the other way around). [ 99 more words. ]

The Forerunner

By Renaissance Girl

John the Baptist astounds me. His entire existence was about Jesus. And not just in the way we endeavor to “live for Jesus” — but literally — all about Him, from the moment John leaped in his mother’s womb at the sound of Mary’s voice (perhaps eager to get started on his task), to the moment he submitted to the will of God and baptized Christ (despite his humble protest that it should be the other way around). He was beheaded at the whim of a girl and her mother, because his message to “prepare” threatened their comfortable existence. Everything he did — wild and confronting as it was — was meant to point to Jesus. And then John quietly stepped aside when He arrived.

I am astounded by this, because this is not how I live at all. But what if I could? What if, instead of seeking accolades myself, I was ALL about Jesus? My prayer as we draw closer to Christmas, is for the grace to become a little more like John the Baptist.

The Community of Jesus

Another fabulous review on Light Upon Light. "Partake of Light Upon Light like a…

Another fabulous review on Light Upon Light.
#quot;Partake of Light Upon Light like a delectable Christmas treat. Let the words waft over you like the aroma of Christmas tea and hot cider. Slow down your Christmas and find the Holy that has been right there all along.#quot; —Michele Morin


Slow Christmas
michelemorin.wordpress.com
Light Upon Light Compiled by Sarah Arthur: A Book Review The problem with reviewing a book like Light Upon Light is that Sarah Arthur has done such a fine job explaining her purpose in the introdu…

December 16 Echoes of Eternity And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angel…

December 16 Echoes of Eternity
And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom and strength, and honor, and glory and blessing.”
Revelation 5:11,12
More and more as you turn to Me, your time and thoughts should be spent in praise and thanksgiving. Heaven, after all, is a place of praise. There, with full vision, and understanding clarified, there is neither sorrow nor crying nor vain regrets—but praise filling every heart. As you give yourself to praise here, you enter the heavenly realm. Your praise, inadequate as it is, unites with that of the
heavenly family—and is magnified in the process. “The humble shall hear thereof and be glad.”
Take this thought, My child, and dwell on it. Your negative and fearful thought-life must be attacked on many levels—and none is more important than this one.

December 16 Echoes of Eternity And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angel…

December 16 Echoes of Eternity
And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom and strength, and honor, and glory and blessing.”
Revelation 5:11,12
More and more as you turn to Me, your time and thoughts should be spent in praise and thanksgiving. Heaven, after all, is a place of praise. There, with full vision, and understanding clarified, there is neither sorrow nor crying nor vain regrets—but praise filling every heart. As you give yourself to praise here, you enter the heavenly realm. Your praise, inadequate as it is, unites with that of the
heavenly family—and is magnified in the process. “The humble shall hear thereof and be glad.”
Take this thought, My child, and dwell on it. Your negative and fearful thought-life must be attacked on many levels—and none is more important than this one.

December 16 Echoes of Eternity And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angel…

December 16 Echoes of Eternity
And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom and strength, and honor, and glory and blessing.”
Revelation 5:11,12
More and more as you turn to Me, your time and thoughts should be spent in praise and thanksgiving. Heaven, after all, is a place of praise. There, with full vision, and understanding clarified, there is neither sorrow nor crying nor vain regrets—but praise filling every heart. As you give yourself to praise here, you enter the heavenly realm. Your praise, inadequate as it is, unites with that of the
heavenly family—and is magnified in the process. “The humble shall hear thereof and be glad.”
Take this thought, My child, and dwell on it. Your negative and fearful thought-life must be attacked on many levels—and none is more important than this one.

December 16 Echoes of Eternity And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angel…

December 16 Echoes of Eternity
And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom and strength, and honor, and glory and blessing.”
Revelation 5:11,12
More and more as you turn to Me, your time and thoughts should be spent in praise and thanksgiving. Heaven, after all, is a place of praise. There, with full vision, and understanding clarified, there is neither sorrow nor crying nor vain regrets—but praise filling every heart. As you give yourself to praise here, you enter the heavenly realm. Your praise, inadequate as it is, unites with that of the
heavenly family—and is magnified in the process. “The humble shall hear thereof and be glad.”
Take this thought, My child, and dwell on it. Your negative and fearful thought-life must be attacked on many levels—and none is more important than this one.

December 15 Echoes of Eternity I will make darkness light before them, and crook…

December 15 Echoes of Eternity
I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.
Isaiah 42:16
The images of your children are etched deeply in your memory. How much more are Mine etched in My heart! My wrath and My mercy are one—and both are meant to turn people to the saving path I place before them. Perfect, mature love casts out fear. When the heart is secure in Me, there is no ground for fear of My wrath.
Learning the height and depth of My love for you is a life-long process. You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you that you should bring forth much fruit. You will not see much of that fruit in this world, but My eye is upon it, and My will is carried forward through it. Marvel not at this. “By feeblest
agents” does My righteous will get accomplished. Let My will bless you, My child, and take heart.

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088365

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088365


Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Cantor Be anxious about nothing Yesterday, the beginning of the 3rd week of Advent, has long been known as #quot;Gaudete#quot; or #quot;Rejoicing#quot; Sunday. The chant introit, Gaudete in Domino (Rejoice in the Lord always), is something of a surprise. Rather than being a boisterous and rousing paean, this chant is quite gentle in comparison to last week##039;s introit trumpeting the arrival of the King. [ 116 more words. ]

Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song

By Cantor

Be anxious about nothing

Yesterday, the beginning of the 3rd week of Advent, has long been known as “Gaudete” or “Rejoicing” Sunday.  The chant introit, Gaudete in Domino (Rejoice in the Lord always), is something of a surprise. Rather than being a boisterous and rousing paean, this chant is quite gentle in comparison to last week’s introit trumpeting the arrival of the King.

This chant remains primarily in the lower part of the mode, save for the word “nihil” (nothing) within the text “Be anxious about nothing.” Also, rather than sweeping up to this high point with a horn-call motive, it is actually reached by a slowly climbing melody from which this highest note springs as the natural climax. What an incredible underscoring of this text which tells us to rejoice in all situations.

Equally important is the humility portrayed in this chant, rising only to its highest point at this blessed command from God to be anxious about nothing. Otherwise, the rejoicing we find here is not so much exuberance as assuredness that God himself is coming.

The Community of Jesus

 

December 14 Echoes of Eternity . . . I have set my face like a flint, and I know…

December 14 Echoes of Eternity
. . . I have set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.
Isaiah 50:7
My word to you today is: Stay. Stay on the course I have laid out for you. Stay your mind and thoughts on Me. Stay within the bounds of My will, and you will know My peace. Stay by Me in prayer and thanksgiving. Stay with My word, which is able to keep you from being led astray in strange paths. Stay the hand of the wicked one with prayer. Stay the course. Finish your race with joy. I will not leave you alone. I will not leave you alone. Banish such thoughts and fears, knowing whence they come.

December 13 Echoes of Eternity When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will gu…

December 13 Echoes of Eternity
When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth; for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak; and He will show you things to come.
John 16:13
My Spirit I have given to lead you into all truth. Do not be surprised that you have had to “change your mind”—because I have continued to deepen and enlarge your tiny, shallow faith over the years. You have traveled a crooked path—setting off in your own direction over and over again. But My grace has not failed you. “Through many dangers, toils and snares you have already come.”
You know them only in part—and have little awareness of how dangerous some of those “detours” were for you.
As My grace has not failed you, you can count on it for those you love. Your fears are rooted in guilt and the desire to be loved by them. Cast away both and throw yourself into the ocean of My merciful love—and be at peace in your prayers. My plans far exceed your own and even a glimpse of them can fill your heart with “joy unspeakable and full of glory.”

December 12 Echoes of Eternity Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou sti…

December 12 Echoes of Eternity
Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
II Timothy 1:6
The fire of your love is smoldering beneath the years of neglect, bitterness, and rebellion. Your proud and stiff neck did not bend willingly to the yoke I laid on you. The circumstances were beyond your control, but you made choices in reaction to them. As a result, the little flame which had been rekindled sputtered and all but died out. Only My grace prevented that from happening. But now you live with the consequences of your resistance to My will. The work of restoration is not complete. I have given you the gift of tears to soften the hardness you have built up—and that is a start. But you must root out the bitterness and cynicism—they will not be “taken” away from you. You must throw them out. With each decision on your part to accept My will without bitterness, your altar fire will burn more brightly, and I will not fail to bless.

Ponder In Our Hearts http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088350

Ponder In Our Hearts http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088350


Ponder In Our Hearts | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Sr. Nun Other Advent is a time to pause and consider, to wait with patience as action builds and events unfold: an angel##039;s visit, a young woman##039;s obedience, and a husband##039;s acceptance; a journey to a hostile city, unwelcome and unprotected; shepherds and choirs of angels, noble kings bearing gifts, and a treacherous king bearing destruction. It##039;s only Act I and we are witness as a child-king is born into the hands of all mankind.

Ponder In Our Hearts

By Sr. Nun Other

Advent is a time to pause and consider, to wait with patience as action builds and events unfold: an angel’s visit, a young woman’s obedience, and a husband’s acceptance; a journey to a hostile city, unwelcome and unprotected; shepherds and choirs of angels, noble kings bearing gifts, and a treacherous king bearing destruction. It’s only Act I and we are witness as a child-king is born into the hands of all mankind.

The Community of Jesus

December 11 Echoes of Eternity Beloved, now are we the children of God, and it d…

December 11 Echoes of Eternity
Beloved, now are we the children of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.
I John 3:2
Blessed indeed are you, My child, to be called into the fellowship of the redeemed. Happy, thrice happy, are those who forsake their ways and follow Me. My plan of redemption encompasses the beginning, the middle, and the end. Along the way the discarded ways are left behind. The dreams and ambitions fade, shrivel, and die. The sins are revealed, and repented, and forgiven. The rebellions are quelled and the wars cease. This must all take place before the full happiness to which I have called you can be experienced.
Yes, I have called you to “happiness”—by which I mean the cup of joy, the internal harmony and peace, and the full realization of My love, which as yet you but dimly see. On such a case as yours I set My love and prove again that I am conqueror over the fall. The price is high, but I chose to pay it, and choose to carry it to final victory in souls like yours.

An informative Q & A blog with Sybil MacBeth on Religion News Service.

An informative Q #amp; A blog with Sybil MacBeth on Religion News Service.


Advent ideas, crafts, and activities for your family – Flunking Sainthood
janariess.religionnews.com
#quot;NO red and green, NO Christmas trees, NO Santas appear in my house before at least December 20,#quot; says author Sybil MacBeth. #quot;I guess this is extreme.#quot;

About Feet http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088342

About Feet http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088342


About Feet | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Melodious Monk I got to thinking about feet this week. Way up high in the ceiling of our church I find lots of them. While changing some light bulbs along the wood trusses, I begin to notice some faint, yet clearly distinguishable foot prints high up on the beams. Unknown and unnamed prints left from the original construction of the church. [ 202 more words. ]

About Feet

By Melodious Monk

I got to thinking about feet this week.

Way up high in the ceiling of our church I find lots of them. While changing some light bulbs along the wood trusses, I begin to notice some faint, yet clearly distinguishable foot prints high up on the beams. Unknown and unnamed prints left from the original construction of the church. Little did these construction workers know that they would be leaving their lasting footprint in this house.

And I got to thinking about feet – which turned into a series of prayers.  Feet evoke action and choice. As I leave my footprints this day–where are they headed?


‘Watch the path of your feet and all your ways will be established.’
‘He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm’
‘…and(Jesus) began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel’
‘guide our feet into the way of peace’
‘Do not turn to the right nor to the left; Turn your foot from evil. ‘
‘For You have delivered my soul from death, Indeed my feet from stumbling’
‘and they laid them down at His feet; and He healed them’
‘I have restrained my feet from every evil way’
‘My steps have held fast to Your paths My feet have not slipped.’
‘..but she has wet My feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair’
‘Surely the land on which your foot has trodden will be an inheritance to you and to your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God fully.’

The Community of Jesus

 

December 10 Echoes of Eternity Moses said, I will now turn aside and see this gr…

December 10 Echoes of Eternity
Moses said, I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
Exodus 3:3
It is My delight to see My children seeking My face. Seek and you shall find. Knock and it shall be opened to you. I am found by those who seek, ask, look—and I never turn away any sincere soul.
Wonders are commonplace compared with the souls that truly seek My face. For this reason, you are likely to become a little “peculiar” in the eyes of others—even those close to you. Turning aside to the burning bush, listening for My voice, obeying My commands—these all set you apart from what is considered ordinary and normal. But you must not allow this privilege to make you special in your own eyes. Rather let it make you more aware of how utterly dependent you are for daily strength and for wisdom to decide between good and evil.
Bring your hurts and your sins here, My child. The “throne of grace” is open to you—and to all who seek My face. Give up defending yourself—learn from Me—and seek My help in overcoming this fault.

A great review of Light upon Light, by Sarah Arthur.

A great review of Light upon Light, by Sarah Arthur.


faithAlivebooks: Light Upon Light by Sarah Arthur
www.faithalivebooks.com
For those who delight in honoring the beginning of the liturgical year and are connoisseurs of aesthetic excellence, Light upon Light will enchant and satisfy. Sarah Arthur has compiled some of the most seasonally-fitting literary excerpts from poets, novelists, and…

When the road takes a sharp turn http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088339

When the road takes a sharp turn http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088339


When the road takes a sharp turn | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Renaissance Girl I recently embarked on an adventure. I was starting something new that, actually, made me quite afraid. It was outside of what seemed logical, and it forced me to ask God at every turn #quot;what do I do?#quot; It took some preparation, and each decision I made felt like I could be making a huge mistake — but it seemed like it was what God was asking, so I tried to do it. [ 323 more words. ]

When the road takes a sharp turn

By Renaissance Girl

I recently embarked on an adventure. I was starting something new that, actually, made me quite afraid.  It was outside of what seemed logical, and it forced me to ask God at every turn “what do I do?” It took some preparation, and each decision I made felt like I could be making a huge mistake — but it seemed like it was what God was asking, so I tried to do it. I wish I could say that I am familiar with living like this — abandoned to God — but I am not and that made it all the scarier, and yet at the same time, hopeful.

And then, suddenly, just when things were wrapped up, the road took a sharp turn. What I thought I was going to be starting didn’t work out. I find myself asking God what he intended in all of this, and what I should do now. What was the point of the preparation if only to run into a road-block?

I will tell you I don’t have answers yet. What I do know is that every day, every moment, is a choice. A choice to ask the question again and not retreat into anger and disappointment and accusation. A choice to trust, even when “logic” says to be skeptical, because if this didn’t work out, maybe the next thing won’t either. My pride desperately wants to save me from getting excited about something only to see it pass by.

I opened a card yesterday that someone had given me when I was preparing for this adventure. They included a prayer about trust — and in that moment I saw God. He knew I’d need this prayer even more in this moment — when I was most tempted to distrust:

Trust, you say, and so I will.  But at times its thread wears thin, and rubs raw the palms of my hands.  Yet I cling to it, for you have shown that in every circumstance, trust leads to Love eventually. Take the pieces of my life and make them one. Smooth the edges, mold the shapes until, with perfect symmetry, they interlock and become the “me” you long for. I can’t make this “me” puzzle fit, though I often try. Master Craftsman of body, mind, and spirit — let it be so, for I trust in you.”

The Community of Jesus

 

 

December 9 Echoes of Eternity So being affectionately desirous of you, we were w…

December 9 Echoes of Eternity
So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted to you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear to us.
I Thessalonians 2:8
My child, grieve not over the things that are lost to you. Strengthen the things that remain. I have taken nothing from you that is of eternal value. I remove in order to fulfill. I take away that I might give. My way is always to supply what you need in abundance, even when that abundance feels like deprivation.
My generosity to you is commensurate with My mercy. It is never-failing and always in right proportion. So there is no cause for worry or anxiety, but much cause for gratitude and rejoicing.
I note your sense of loss in relationships—and say again to you: Grieve not over those who are lost to you. They are not lost to Me nor to My divine mercy. Rest in the assurance that I am faithful and know what is best. That for you can be a place of settled rest.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. We offer you a beauti…

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. We offer you a beautiful video clip from The Chants of Mary CD, by Gloriae Dei Cantores Men##039;s Schola.


Gregorian Chant – Salve Regina (Solemn tone) from #quot;The Chants of Mary#quot;
www.youtube.com
Order at http://www.paracletepress.com/the-chants-of-mary.html Gloriae Dei Cantores Men##039;s Schola 2012 Salve, Regina, Mater misericórdiæ, vita, dulcédo, et sp…

December 8 Echoes of Eternity The devil is come down unto you, having great wrat…

December 8 Echoes of Eternity
The devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
Revelation 12:12
Come with Me, My child, into the future I have prepared for you. The years and the ages are Mine, and I am a safe Guide and Companion.
The past is covered by My redeeming sacrifice. It lives in your memory to be a perpetual reminder of your sinful nature and My grace. You have seen how I have moved to redeem that which was beyond your control, and what I have done, I am still able to do.
This world, in all its brokenness and darkness, is still the world for which I laid down My life. The enemy is still not convinced that My victory is complete, so with great wrath he snatches whomever he can. Prayer is a mighty weapon against his power. Do not forget this. Prayer does make a difference, because I have made a place for it in My divine plan. So keep praying as My Spirit directs and leads— and do not forget My little ones. O do not forget My little ones!

The Return of the Trumpet http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088311

The Return of the Trumpet http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088311


The Return of the Trumpet | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Cantor Two weeks ago, the Introit intonation chant for the feast of Christ in Glory was reminiscent of a trumpet call. Last week, the first week of Advent, the chants sounded full of incredible supplication and beauty. Now, in the 2nd week of Advent, the #quot;trumpet#quot; intonation returns in the Introit Populus Sion, ecce Dominus veniet et ad salvandos gentes… [ 118 more words. ]

The Return of the Trumpet

By Cantor

Two weeks ago, the Introit intonation chant for the feast of Christ in Glory was reminiscent of a trumpet call. Last week, the first week of Advent, the chants sounded full of incredible supplication and beauty.

Now, in the 2nd week of Advent, the “trumpet” intonation returns in the Introit Populus Sion, ecce Dominus veniet et ad salvandos gentes (People of Sion, behold the Lord comes to save the Gentiles.)  This introit, unlike that from last week, is a regal pronouncement, meant to get our attention and give us the answer to the outcry heard in Ad te levavi.

Like many of the chants through the church year, the melodies and the texts of the Advent chants are meant to take us on a journey. The sound of this introit tells us that this is no ordinary person coming to save us, but a person of great power.  Advent presents us with both the human and divine personality of Christ. The sound of Populus Sion leaves no doubt that the King who is coming is God himself.

The Community of Jesus

 

December 7 Echoes of Eternity We love Him because He first loved us. I John 4:19…

December 7 Echoes of Eternity
We love Him because He first loved us.
I John 4:19
As I have put it in your heart to seek Me, so it is in My heart to seek you. I speak in human terms so you can grasp the living-ness of My love and care for you. You are not an orphan, even though you have “orphaned” yourself by denying who you are. Your sins past and present are ways of accomplishing that. Thus My seeking—again I speak as a man—finding ways and circumstances to bring to your mind and heart who you are and where you are. Yes, it is I who move
you to seek Me, and I will not rest until it has been accomplished!

December 7 Echoes of Eternity We love Him because He first loved us. I John 4:19…

December 7 Echoes of Eternity
We love Him because He first loved us.
I John 4:19
As I have put it in your heart to seek Me, so it is in My heart to seek you. I speak in human terms so you can grasp the living-ness of My love and care for you. You are not an orphan, even though you have “orphaned” yourself by denying who you are. Your sins past and present are ways of accomplishing that. Thus My seeking—again I speak as a man—finding ways and circumstances to bring to your mind and heart who you are and where you are. Yes, it is I who move
you to seek Me, and I will not rest until it has been accomplished!

December 6 Echoes of Eternity For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but a…

December 6 Echoes of Eternity
For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie; though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
Habakkuk 2:3
Think not that your prayer is wasted, no matter how long the wait. Remember what I have told you, and keep on praying. You do not know the “ins and outs” of what is being done with your prayer in the meantime. I call for faithful perseverance through the cloudy and murky times, when you cannot see any answer coming. It is in this time that your love for Me grows in the secret place. Trust My unfailing love and My sure word of promise.