About Feet http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088342
About Feet | The Community of Jesus
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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. ]
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.’
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.
faithAlivebooks: Light Upon Light by Sarah Arthur
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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 | The Community of Jesus
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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. ]
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.”
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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 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 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 | The Community of Jesus
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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. ]
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.
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
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 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.
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December 5 Echoes of Eternity
These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. . . .
Revelation 14:4
As the eagle flies upward, above the noise and strife of this busy world, so should your soul “fly upward” to commune with Me. Most of your life has been lived in the lowlands—your thoughts and imaginations—even your dreams—have lodged there. Take this invitation seriously, My child, while there is yet time. Do not worry about what others are doing or thinking—for that is but a weight and hindrance to you. Seek My face. Seek to know Me in Myself—
not hearsay or opinion—but a living knowledge that I will impart, if you will “follow the Lamb wheresoever He leads.” Be bold in your need and do not fear to draw near.
An Advent Search For Quiet Moments http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088308
An Advent Search For Quiet Moments | The Community of Jesus
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By Sr. Nun Other Yesterday, I experienced quiet in a room with several people. Each was absorbed in their work, but not isolated from the other. It was an active quiet, and brought to mind my personal Advent reading for the day: Luke 1:26-38, the Annunciation. There is no written proof, but traditionally, Mary is pictured alone, in quiet work, when Gabriel appears.
By Sr. Nun Other
Yesterday, I experienced quiet in a room with several people. Each was absorbed in their work, but not isolated from the other. It was an active quiet, and brought to mind my personal Advent reading for the day: Luke 1:26-38, the Annunciation. There is no written proof, but traditionally, Mary is pictured alone, in quiet work, when Gabriel appears. The scene unfolds (at least in my mind) in discreet tranquility, in a quiet village in Nazareth, a quiet event, that will one day alter the course of humankind.
Paraclete Press Sacred Music has some great new anthems and organ works for the upcoming 2015 Lenten season. Please #quot;LIKE#quot; this page and contact one of our music representatives for more information. http://www.paracletepress.com/sheet.html
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December 4 Echoes of Eternity
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Psalm 100:3
I know My sheep and call them by name. This is a mystery beyond your comprehension, for you rightly see how impossible it is for the human mind. But I am the God of the impossible—by which I mean that My power and ability far exceed any thought you might have of Me—however grand and majestic it might be. In My choice to become man and dwell among you, I did not diminish My infinity. Your life has been too circumscribed by your mental boundaries. You have severly limited your participation in My divine greatness by these boundaries. But hear this word again and meditate on it. It contains a key to unlock resources you have not dreamed of or yet experienced. I know My sheep and call them by name. My dear child, that little word can make all the difference—if you learn to believe it.
December 4 Echoes of Eternity
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Psalm 100:3
I know My sheep and call them by name. This is a mystery beyond your comprehension, for you rightly see how impossible it is for the human mind. But I am the God of the impossible—by which I mean that My power and ability far exceed any thought you might have of Me—however grand and majestic it might be. In My choice to become man and dwell among you, I did not diminish My infinity. Your life has been too circumscribed by your mental boundaries. You have severly limited your participation in My divine greatness by these boundaries. But hear this word again and meditate on it. It contains a key to unlock resources you have not dreamed of or yet experienced. I know My sheep and call them by name. My dear child, that little word can make all the difference—if you learn to believe it.
Gifts of Service http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088305
Gifts of Service | The Community of Jesus
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By Melodious Monk Jesus comes to us in many ways. In this season, we especially pay attention to Him coming as an infant. And what do infants need? In short, lots of help — constant care, someone to feed them, keep them warm, and protect them. I realized something today. I look forward to Advent, to its hope and the expectation of Jesus – for a fresh start, forgetting the past year and moving on with purpose and expectation. [ 182 more words. ]
Gifts of Service http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088305
Gifts of Service | The Community of Jesus
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By Melodious Monk Jesus comes to us in many ways. In this season, we especially pay attention to Him coming as an infant. And what do infants need? In short, lots of help — constant care, someone to feed them, keep them warm, and protect them. I realized something today. I look forward to Advent, to its hope and the expectation of Jesus – for a fresh start, forgetting the past year and moving on with purpose and expectation. [ 182 more words. ]
By Melodious Monk
Jesus comes to us in many ways. In this season, we especially pay attention to Him coming as an infant. And what do infants need? In short, lots of help — constant care, someone to feed them, keep them warm, and protect them.
I realized something today. I look forward to Advent, to its hope and the expectation of Jesus – for a fresh start, forgetting the past year and moving on with purpose and expectation. It’s a time to say “yes,” to open my heart and to allow more room for Jesus. “Come Lord Jesus, quickly come” falls out of my lips as the time-honored mantra of the season.
I learned something else today. Underneath my hope, need, and expectation for God to come, to save, and to heal me, what I’m really asking (even demanding) is to be given these gifts. I don’t really want to serve this infant King; I just want him to do what I fervently ask!
And yet Jesus comes to us as a needy infant. I can only imagine the time and energy necessary to take care of or “serve” a new-born. This “service” is a full-time commitment. In contemplating the Christ Child during Advent, are Jesus, Mary, and Joseph teaching me how to serve the adult Christ as well? I’m reminded that God wants a relationship with me. In addition to asking for his help and healing, I also must love and serve him. Then I can expect to be able to walk with him.
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December 3 Echoes of Eternity
Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you.
I Peter 5:7
Cast your burden upon Me and I will sustain you. I am He who bears the burden of the weak. You have not yet learned the secret of My burden-bearing, and you inflict pain on yourself and others in your reaction to situations you feel are unjust or unfair. You still demand that others think of you the way you think of yourself, and in your determination not to come under their “false accusations,”
you strike or lash back. My dear child, you do not have to do this! You are a sin-bearer, and I am ready to enter the situation “with healing in My wings” if you will cast your burden upon Me. Your way has never worked—so why not try Mine?
December 2 Echoes of Eternity
Thou shalt show me the path of life; in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Psalm 16:11
Draw near to Me, and I will draw near to you. I am ever near, but you are usually unmindful of it. It takes a conscious choice on your part to enter into a realization that I am here.
My aim and purpose for you, My child, is for you to dwell in My presence. In My presence there is fullness of joy. In My presence is peace that passes understanding. But in My presence there is no room for self-absorption and self-promotion. These things must die and be purged away. They are deadly and death-giving. They must die so that life, true life, My life, can be yours.
Bless the means by which I further My plan for you. Keep before your eyes what I have told you. In My presence there is fullness of joy.
Timeline Photos
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Angel—golden hinge
swung on silver, silent bolt
opened gate of truth.
—Haiku Poem by Paul Quenon from Unquiet Vigil
December 1 Echoes of Eternity
But his word was in my heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.
Jeremiah 20:9
My word is a fire—a purging, purifying fire—burning the dross and refuse of the years past. My word destroys as well as it builds. It must destroy strongholds of darkness and rebellion. You do not even know where or what some of those strongholds are in your soul. They must be assaulted and destroyed that you might be whole in Me. My word is not always in words. My word is My will going forth from Me to accomplish My purpose. You may tremble or weep before it without consciously knowing why or what is being done. Do not worry. Submit yourself inasmuch “as lieth in you” to My sovereign purpose. Keep silent before My mysterious ways, for all will be light in the end. Faith requires this, to trust where you are mystified, to hold on to what I have said when the outward conditions seem to contradict it. This is the way and walk of faith.
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Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088289
Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song | The Community of Jesus
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By Cantor To Thee, O Lord The first week of Advent marks the beginning of the new liturgical year and opens with one of the most famous and beautiful Gregorian chants: Ad te levavi (Unto Thee. O Lord, do I lift up my soul). This chant has even been designated by some chant scholars as the #quot;summit of spirituality in Gregorian chant.#quot; [ 206 more words. ]
By Cantor
To Thee, O Lord
The first week of Advent marks the beginning of the new liturgical year and opens with one of the most famous and beautiful Gregorian chants: Ad te levavi (Unto Thee. O Lord, do I lift up my soul). This chant has even been designated by some chant scholars as the “summit of spirituality in Gregorian chant.”
“Ad te levavi” deserves special attention because of the extraordinary way in which it illuminates the text. The opening text phrase — Ad te levavi animam meam, Deus meus, in te confido, non erubescam (Unto Thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul: in thee I place my confidence; let me not be confounded) — opens with a quick, upward sweep to the word “animam” but then immediately rises one note higher on the word “meus.” Instantly, our ears tell us that someone is crying out to God, lifting their voice in emphasis on “my soul” but, even more so on “my God.” The chant does not descend until “non erubescam.” The person crying out bows his head at that moment, in hope of hearing a response. In this opening phrase, the chant has placed us in the position of need as we lift our prayer upward.
Dom Eugene Cardine, one of the great 20th century chant scholars, stated that the sound of the chant was literally “extracted” from the sound of the words. We have a moving example of this as we open the new church year.
Image Credit: Abbey of St. Peter of Solesmes, Paleographie Musicale
November 30 Echoes of Eternity
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
John 9:5
Morning by morning I speak to your heart. Morning by morning I renew your hope. The darkness of night is dispelled by the light, and the darkness of self is dispelled by My light. There is no life without My light—and whenever you choose your own way, you walk in the darkness of death. Joy and gladness do not—cannot—live in that self-chosen darkness. Fear and foreboding warn of the danger ahead if you persist in it. Seek the light, My child, seek the light.
November 29 Echoes of Eternity
. . . that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting.
I Timothy 1:16
I am the God of mercy. Your life, My child, is a manifestation of it. You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and set My mercy upon you. In a vessel such as you are—weak, unstable, hidden, and high-minded—only My mercy can bring forth any lasting good. The unlovable elements in your nature work against that mercy— war against it—striving for ascendancy and recognition. They are
always self-defeating. They produce their own punishment. But My mercies fail not. And your life is meant to show the fruit which grows from both. Let mercy prevail!
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November 28 Echoes of Eternity
He upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart.
Mark 16:14
Yes, you are fearful to open the door of your heart to My voice. You are afraid of what I will say about your sins. And so this delay in our communion, while you “dance about,” insisting that you want to hear My word to you. You are still divided and pride still rules where humility should reign. O proud and foolish one! How long will you linger in the shades of separation when we might be
walking together in the path of light? I am grieved at your slowness of heart. I appeal to you by My many mercies—give up this pride and get on with it!
No Easy Thing http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088264
No Easy Thing | The Community of Jesus
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By Sr. Nun Other I believe true forgiveness is a process, and not a single event. I can say the proper words to end an unpleasant and difficult encounter, but I know words are not enough. I##039;ll rehash the hurt, sense of injustice, and anger many times before the work of genuine forgiveness is complete. I##039;m not proud of my slowness of heart, nor am I particularly ashamed of it. [ 25 more words. ]
By Sr. Nun Other
I believe true forgiveness is a process, and not a single event. I can say the proper words to end an unpleasant and difficult encounter, but I know words are not enough. I’ll rehash the hurt, sense of injustice, and anger many times before the work of genuine forgiveness is complete. I’m not proud of my slowness of heart, nor am I particularly ashamed of it. Forgiveness is a cherished commodity, forged as gold, and worthy of the perseverance it requires. It equally benefits both the forgiver and the forgiven.
Gives Thanks:
I thank you
that the day is quiet,
the sun is bright,
that awareness of you
dances in consciousness
like autumn leaves
against the blue sky.
It is a happiness
to need only this much
of your infinite variety,
to love your dying world,
to know love undying.
— Bonnie Thurston
November 27 Echoes of Eternity
When He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them, and the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice.
John 10:4
My voice is a mighty voice. My voice is a still, small voice. I speak in tones designed to carry out My will. Your ear is still too much attuned to your own voice and the voice of the world. Silence is essential to tuning in to My words to you. Do not think the time wasted in waiting. Do not grow impatient or disheartened that it takes you so long. Remember how long you have lived without this necessary preparation—and how sporadic and scattered were the
times you “heard” My voice. I have had to speak in “loud” tones of circumstances—some of them drastic—to guide you in My chosen way. But I would prefer to speak in the still, small voice, and see you willingly hear and obey. So I bid you, My child, do not give up on your waiting and listening—and learn to be still and know My voice.
Discipline of Gratitude http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088256
Discipline of Gratitude | The Community of Jesus
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By Melodious Monk One November many years ago, our first president proclaimed: “Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be– That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks–for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country…” [ 401 more words. ]
By Melodious Monk
One November many years ago, our first president proclaimed:
“Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be– That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks–for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country…”
Following in Washington’s footsteps during a difficult time for our nation, Abraham Lincoln said this:
“Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do hereby appoint and set apart the last Thursday in November next as a day which I desire to be observed by all my fellow-citizens, wherever they may then be, as a day of thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God, the beneficent Creator and Ruler of the Universe. And I do further recommend to my fellow-citizens aforesaid that on that occasion they do reverently humble themselves in the dust and from thence offer up penitent and fervent prayers and supplications to the Great Disposer of Events for a return of the inestimable blessings of peace, union, and harmony throughout the land which it has pleased Him to assign as a dwelling place for ourselves and for our posterity throughout all generations.”
Fast forwarding to our generation, the late Henri Nouwen, a man who seemed to know and cherish man’s universal purpose to glorify and give thanks to God, left us this advice. “In the past I always thought of gratitude as a spontaneous response to the awareness of gifts received, but now I realize that gratitude can also be lived as a discipline. The discipline of gratitude is the explicit effort to acknowledge that all I am and have is given to me as a gift of love, a gift to be celebrated with joy. Gratitude as a discipline involves a conscious choice. I can choose to be grateful even when my emotions and feelings are still steeped in hurt and resentment. It is amazing how many occasions present themselves in which I can choose gratitude instead of a complaint…the choice for gratitude rarely comes without some real effort. But each time I make it, the next choice is a little easier, a little freer, a little less self-conscious.”
Each day, and especially today, we can continue the generations-old tradition of choosing to place our thanks and trust in the loving “great disposer of events” as president Lincoln affectionately worded our creator. I hope that in some way, my small offering of thanks today, together with yours, can join myriad legions of angels to help guide all of us to taste some inestimable blessings.
Photo credit: Artist’s depiction of George Washington praying at Valley Forge. (Public Domain)
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Paraclete Press is a publisher of Christian books, music and DVD##039;s from Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox and Jewish perspectives and traditions.
A great review in Christianity Today on Sarah Arthur##039;s new book, Light upon Light: A Literary Guide to Prayer for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany
##039;Light upon Light##039; Brings Meaning to Advent and Beyond
www.christianitytoday.com
A book review
November 26 Echoes of Eternity
Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
Psalm 139:3
I am the first and the last, the beginning and the destiny of your life. I called you into being out of nothing, and willed your existence on earth. I loved you, even before you were conceived in your mother’s womb, and planned the path of your earthly life. I took into account your nature and the wrong choices you would make. They could not defeat My power and My plan, but they would cause you grief and suffering. My will for you is life, health, and strength. Weakness and sickness are allowed but are not My perfect will. Nevertheless
they are useful in fulfilling My plan. My persevering grace has kept you from falling headlong into ruin. Repentance and praise now are necessary to advance in the path I have set before you. Praise is repentance for it is a recognition and acceptance of My way over yours. Go forward along that path, for I am with you.
Circle of Life http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088253
Circle of Life | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Renaissance Girl Isn##039;t it interesting that at the same time we are ending the calendar year, we begin the church year? My type A personality brain says — couldn##039;t we have coordinated this better? But as I think about our decorating this past weekend, hanging lights from the huge tree in front of the Convent, stringing garland along the walkways, making baked goods for the gift shop or putting candles in windows, it strikes me that logic and coordination are not what this season is about. [ 49 more words. ]
By Renaissance Girl
Isn’t it interesting that at the same time we are ending the calendar year, we begin the church year? My type A personality brain says — couldn’t we have coordinated this better?
But as I think about our decorating this past weekend, hanging lights from the huge tree in front of the Convent, stringing garland along the walkways, making baked goods for the gift shop or putting candles in windows, it strikes me that logic and coordination are not what this season is about.
Our human minds tell us the year is closing, things are ending, darkness is prevalent and sleep is the order of the day. Into this bursts the new Liturgical year, with light enough to illuminate the world, and cries “Sleepers Wake!” And we leave off endings and begin again.
Daily Email Subscription for Advent – $9.99. Reflections by Scott Cairns, Richard John Neuhaus, Kathleen Norris, Emilie Griffin, Eugene Peterson, Luci Shaw. http://www.paracletepress.com/god-with-us-daily-email.html
November 25 Echoes of Eternity
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say Amen. Praise ye the Lord.
Psalm 106:48
My child, your thankfulness gladdens My heart and strengthens yours. It truly is a good thing to be thankful, because gratitude aligns your soul with My Spirit and opens you to the healing streams of My mercy. My heart is always gladdened when any child of mine becomes open to My mercy. Gratitude opens the “channels of reception,” which are necessary for you to receive the blessings I would willingly pour out on you. Gratitude is an antidote to false pride and
its distortions of the soul. It is an antidote to fear, because the soul recognizes the benevolence and good will which lay behind the gift. Gratitude opens the channels of fellowship and charity, because it kills false competition and jealousy. I have called you many times to praise and give thanks. My Word exhorts My people to give thanks. These are some of the inner reasons why praise is essential for your life with Me. Praise opens clogged channels, and the soul can grow stronger in the purer sunlight of My love and goodness when it turns away from itself and exercises this holy privilege.
Yes, My child, your thankfulness gladdens My heart and strengthens yours.
November 24 Echoes of Eternity
For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things, to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Romans 11:36
Hear, My child, the word for today. There is no need that I cannot fill. There is no situation that I cannot redeem. Your faith is still dwarfed and stymied by your reasoning, and your deep fear is the product. Only by trusting Me beyond the limits of your reasoning can you begin to have freedom from the plaguing fears.
The future is Mine—your future and the future of your loved ones. My arm has not been cut off, and My resources are limited only by My nature and My will. I am aware of all your circumstances and the anxieties you entertain even in sleep about those you love. Be of good cheer. The end is not yet, and I am still at work. I have not forgotten My promises, and My plans for you are good, not evil. Stay on the path I have set before you, and trust Me for all that is to come.
Stand up for The King! http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088249
Stand up for The King! | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Cantor We often hear the phrase #quot;chant is so peaceful.#quot; Certainly, many chants do have an inherent sense of peace about them. But not all of them — sometimes the chant demands our attention, insisting that we stand up and listen! Last week, the communion antiphon began with the text #quot;Amen, dico vobis.#quot; Translated, that means #quot;So be it, I say to you.#quot; These words of Jesus are not set to a gentle recitation but rather burst forth on a trumpet-like motive that leaves no room for doubt that we need to listen to Jesus##039; words that follow. [ 119 more words. ]
By Cantor
We often hear the phrase “chant is so peaceful.” Certainly, many chants do have an inherent sense of peace about them. But not all of them — sometimes the chant demands our attention, insisting that we stand up and listen!
Last week, the communion antiphon began with the text “Amen, dico vobis.” Translated, that means “So be it, I say to you.” These words of Jesus are not set to a gentle recitation but rather burst forth on a trumpet-like motive that leaves no room for doubt that we need to listen to Jesus’ words that follow.
All week, I found myself “hearing” that trumpet motive from other times of the church year. In fact that same sound occurs in the communion for Pentecost — “Factus est repente de caelo sonus” (A mighty sound came rushing out of Heaven); the introit for Christmas Day mass — “Puer natus est” (A boy is born unto us); the procession for Palm Sunday — “Hosanna, Filio David” (Hosanna to the Son of David), to name a few. In moments, I had been taken through much of the church year, reminded by a simple musical motive of the Kingship of Christ.
Credit for image 5070 – Music – Gregorian Chant
November 23 Echoes of Eternity
And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people.
Isaiah 65:19
I, the Lord God, Maker of heaven and earth, delight to hold fellowship with My lowly creatures. My love created them and gave them life and breath. My Spirit quickened them into new life, to enable them to seek Me and find Me in the appointed time. Marvel not that such is the case, for it is the nature of love to seek the good and happiness of others. My delight can only be increased as My
children find true joy and delight. My divine happiness, My joy, is increased by theirs. The joy that was set before Me on the cross was the sure faith-knowledge that My death would bring joy and delight to My children.
I do not seek craven servants, but joyful children. I do not find pleasure in fear-inspired service, though I accept it as a way-station toward maturity. When the fullness of love comes, our relation can be based on a mutual desire to bring joy to the other. Learning to see My design in purging out false dreams and aims is a step—a necessary step in the path to maturity. The tapestry of My plan begins to “make sense” as you view your life in this light.
The Death of Death:
Put fear aside. Now
that He has entered
into death on our behalf,
all who live
no longer die
as men once died.
That ephemeral occasion
has met its utter end.
As seeds cast to the earth, we
will not perish,
but like those seeds
shall rise again—the shroud
of death itself having been
burst to tatters
by love##039;s immensity.
— Scott Cairns, from The Endless Life
#quot;This gorgeous book is going to remain at my reading chair, dog-eared and bookmarked, all through the Yuletide season. It will also be under the tree of just about everyone on my gift list. We will all have more interesting winters, and greater intimacy with Jesus, because of it.#quot;
—Lauren F. Winner, author of Still and Mudhouse Sabbath
http://www.paracletepress.com/the-season-of-the-nativity.html
November 22 Echoes of Eternity
Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.
Matthew 25:40
Interruptions are also of Me. Do not forget the parable of the priest and the Levite. Never let your predetermined agenda keep you from seeing My hand in the interruption. It is there, whether you recognize it or not.
November 21 Echoes of Eternity
Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord, and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father.
Isaiah 58:14
My dear child, I delight in those who find their delight in Me. I grieve for those whose delights are of this passing world. They will suffer great loss and rob themselves of many joys.
I call you to center your heart upon Me. Your failures and successes are not the goal of life. The true goal is to seek and find true life in Me.
I tell you again that I have loved you with an everlasting love. When fear and darkness come upon you, recall this word to your mind. Resist the accusations of the adversary that My grace is not sufficient for your needs. Oh, there is plenteous grace beyond your direst need. Am I not God? Let love cross out fear and be one of those who find their delight in Me.
Flash Friday- $10 Today Only- The Christmas Countdown: Creating 25 Days of New Advent Traditions for Families. Prepare your heart and home for a meaningful Christmas!
http://www.paracletepress.com/the-christmas-countdown-creating-25-days-of-new-advent-traditions-for-families.html
Assume The Best http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088218
Assume The Best | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Sr. Nun Other It##039;s so easy to assume the worst, at least if you##039;re anxious by nature. I think of the Pilgrims, who, for the sake of their children and love of God, surrendered their fear of the unknown. They embarked on a rigorous journey of sacrifice, to establish one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all…
By Sr. Nun Other
It’s so easy to assume the worst, at least if you’re anxious by nature. I think of the Pilgrims, who, for the sake of their children and love of God, surrendered their fear of the unknown. They embarked on a rigorous journey of sacrifice, to establish one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Facing fast and furious seas, starvation, disease, and desolate wilderness, they pressed on. Then, in thanksgiving, joined hands in a symbolic feast of community. May we all be thankful, assume the best, and rest in God’s love this Thanksgiving!
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#quot;They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then, they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.#quot; Matthew 2:11
http://www.paracletepress.com/gold-frankincense-myrrh-set.html
#quot;This is a wonderful story about the power of a child##039;s imagination and a reminder to adults that we should encourage children to use it often. It##039;s a good reminder that it is the simple gifts that are the most valuable. This will be a must read each Christmas season.#quot;
— A Reviewer on Amazon.com
http://www.paracletepress.com/the-christmas-stick-a-childrens-story.html
Little Rascal:
How is it birds who
come in plain packets sing so
extravagantly?
Little brown winged-thing,
hardly worth looking at,
urchin hid in shrub,
tell me where you stole
that dazzling necklace
strung with diamond notes?
Out of God##039;s pocket?
— Paul Quenon, from Unquiet Vigil
November 20 Echoes of Eternity
Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
James 1:27
I send you out from these quiet times to live out and prove the realities you meet here. Only in the press of the day and the needs of the night can you come to know that what I tell you here is truth. Otherwise it would become an escape into an unreal world of fantasy, cut off from your real life. That is certainly not what these quiet times are meant to be. They are organically connected with the
whole of your life: all your struggles, relationships, and uncertainties, your temptations and your wounds. Use them more faithfully. Recall them to mind more frequently. Refresh yourself here at the fountain of life for the heat of the day, and return hither in heart and mind in the dry season. My grace is sufficient for you.
Pieces of Prayer http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088213
Pieces of Prayer | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Melodious Monk Jesus once told us, #quot;Truly, I say to you, ##039;Everything you ask for, praying, believe that you will receive (it), and it will be done for you.##039; #quot; All this week during communion we sing these words from Matthew in the Communion proper for the day. As I stand waiting to receive communion, I##039;m aware of who##039;s in my immediate vicinity, a Catholic man from New Jersey, a Methodist from Texas, and several elementary and middle school aged kids, all of us singing this prayer together. [ 171 more words. ]
By Melodious Monk
Jesus once told us, “Truly, I say to you, ‘Everything you ask for, praying, believe that you will receive (it), and it will be done for you.’ ”
All this week during communion we sing these words from Matthew in the Communion proper for the day. As I stand waiting to receive communion, I’m aware of who’s in my immediate vicinity, a Catholic man from New Jersey, a Methodist from Texas, and several elementary and middle school aged kids, all of us singing this prayer together. I don’t know why it caught my attention, but it struck me that all of us from very different backgrounds and age groups were being united through prayer and through this song.
And I wonder what each of us was asking God this morning? Perhaps a wide variety of things.
Among many, one thing on my mind was the headline to the Boston Globe I saw on the way out the door this morning; that 5 people were killed in a synagogue in Jerusalem, four of them while praying, and the 5th man trying to protect the others. I wonder what these men were asking of God in their house of worship. I wonder how God’s “in-box” works for all the requests he must receive. Does he sort them by the ones that are sent with belief, and the ones without? I find comfort in praying. But in my pieces of prayer tossed to the heavens, do I actually believe that they can and will happen? Or do I only ask?
JUST IN! Flunking Sainthood Every Day: A Daily Devotional for the Rest of Us. A wonderful way to start the new year.
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“This devotional will stimulate your brain, companion your soul, and inspire you.” —Lauren F. Winner, author of Mudhouse Sabbath and Still
http://www.paracletepress.com/flunking-sainthood-every-day.html
Free study guide on our website invites you to explore Advent in a group. Through the exchange of ideas and mutual encouragement, study of this book can enhance the season for you, your family, and your congregation. Four 1-hour sessions are offered that focus on Advent and segue into Christmas and Epiphany by session 4. Session 1 begins the week prior to the first Sunday of Advent. (Think: soon!)
The Season of the Nativity: Confessions and Practices of an Advent, Christmas #amp; Epiphany Extremist
www.paracletepress.com
The Season of the Nativity: Confessions and Practices of an Advent, Christmas #amp; Epiphany Extremist – Sybil MacBeth writes that Advent and Epiphany are the often-neglected parentheses around Christmas. …
November 19 Echoes of Eternity
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and love, and of a sound mind.
II Timothy 1:7
In mercy I come to you to renew your spirit. Life is My gift to you, not only your physical life, but the spiritual life I impart. All life is Mine. That is a mystery too deep for your understanding. What you can understand, My child, is that your life is My gift and continually comes from Me. So why the worry and fear? Why do you allow ground for accusation against Me? Have I not promised to be with
you to the end? Have I failed you hitherto? Be more aggressive against these wicked thoughts when they come in the night. Reclaim what you have surrendered and recognize the enemy when he appears.
Life is My gift to you. Your life continually comes from Me. Don’t waste it in faithless fears and wicked accusations.
Risking Advent-ure http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088210
Risking Advent-ure | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Renaissance Girl I was talking with a friend last night, just in passing. Talking about life, and change, and being afraid of new things. She said that someone had recently pointed out to her that the word adventure has the word advent in it. I know Advent is still two weeks away, but actually, it really caught my attention. I love words, and I love exploring where they come from and what they mean. [ 177 more words. ]
By Renaissance Girl
I was talking with a friend last night, just in passing. Talking about life, and change, and being afraid of new things. She said that someone had recently pointed out to her that the word adventure has the word advent in it. I know Advent is still two weeks away, but actually, it really caught my attention. I love words, and I love exploring where they come from and what they mean. Both the root of advent and adventure can be traced back to the Latin advenire — “to come to, reach for, arrive at.” Later uses introduced a sense of risk or danger. One definition that struck me was, “a risky undertaking of unknown outcome.”
Look at the story of Christ, who arrived on earth as a vulnerable baby, forced to flee shortly after his birth, challenged in the desert by the devil himself, betrayed by a friend, nailed to a cross, and raised from the dead… Talk about risk and unknown outcome!
But here’s what really got my attention — the suffix -ure indicates “act, process or result.” Start putting these parts together and you get things like — “the act of reaching for, the process of arriving at, the result of coming to.” So of course adventure requires risk, and unknown outcome — but can’t we hang on to the outcome that we do know? That Christ’s “risky undertaking of unknown outcome” resulted in our redemption. And so we reach for the adventure of Advent.
Sybil MacBeth has started a #quot;Holiday Revolution#quot;!
Christmas as a Season: Sybil MacBeth’s “The Season of Nativity” and a Holiday Revolution
www.patheos.com
There is perhaps no holiday for which it is possible to go more “all out” than Christmas. Stores start their marketing campaigns before the calendar has turned to Fall; Christmas trees go up before Thanksgiving dinners have even been digested (or earlier!); yards quickly fill with ever-more-enormous…
From ImageUpdate (the biweekly e-mail newsletter from Image): Light Upon Light: A Literary Guide to Prayer for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany by Sarah Arthur
#quot;You’re invited to a feast this Christmas. Sarah Arthur, editor of the collection At the Still Point: A Literary Guide to Ordinary Time, has published another volume with Paraclete Press, Light Upon Light: A Literary Guide to Prayer for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. If you’ve prepared for past Christmas seasons with the help of God With Us, Image’s own book of meditations from some of our favorite spiritual writers, you’ll find Light Upon Light to be another rich tapestry of poetry, fiction, and scripture. A mix of the venerable and the fresh, pieces from Eliot, Chesterton, and Rosetti are paired with contemporary writers like Amit Majmudar (read Arthur##039;s recent interview with Majmudar on Good Letters here), Susanna Childress, and Tania Runyan (all Image contributors). Arthur##039;s curation is sensitive and inviting to epiphany: for the narrative of Christ##039;s birth, she pairs Li-Young Lee’s #quot;The Eternal Son,#quot; a poem aching with the necessary abandonment of growing up (#quot;and if she’s weeping / it##039;s because she’s misplaced / both our childhoods#quot;), bookended by an excerpt from Gary D. Schmidt##039;s The Wednesday Wars, in which a seventh-grade protagonist witnesses the tarnishing of a childhood hero. Not every piece is Christmas-themed; pieces from the canon (Dickens##039; The Christmas Carol, Andersen##039;s fairy tale #quot;The Snow Queen,#quot; classic poems by Donne and Tennyson) are laid side by side with Jeanne Murray Walker##039;s #quot;Staying Power#quot; (epigraph: #quot;In appreciation of Maxim Gorky at the International Convention of Atheists, 1929#quot;) and an excerpt from Dostoevsky##039;s Notes from the Underground. You##039;ll find food for nostalgia as well as delightful new voices, including Arthur##039;s own. In short: both spiritual succor and pure pleasure.#quot;
Light up your season with this gem of a collection: buy your copy here. http://www.paracletepress.com/light-upon-light.html
November 18 Echoes of Eternity
It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.
Lamentations 3:26
In quietness you shall possess your soul. In stillness you shall hear My voice. Strive to enter into My rest. Learn the secret, while you yet have time, of letting go. You still cling to the old ways of anxiousness and care. Your fears are grounded in this clinging, so you are bound rather than free, troubled rather than peaceful.
Do you not know, My child, that I am the Source and Giver of the peace for which you long? Seek that peace which is Mine, for in it you will be freed from the night demons of panic and terror. Claim the inheritance which is yours as My child, and do not despise My dealings. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
O Come Emmanuel: A Musical Tour of Daily Readings for Advent and Christmas- A wonderful gift for your choir members!
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http://www.paracletepress.com/o-come-emmanuel-a-musical-tour-of-daily-readings-for-advent-and-christmas.html
November 17 Echoes of Eternity
My beloved is mine, and I am His . . . until the day break and the shadows flee away.
Song of Solomon 2:16,17
I am here. I am here for you. I wait to be gracious. I wait to touch your heart with My tenderness. “Majestic sweetness sits enthroned.” You have as yet touched only the edges of My ways, the hem of My garment. Remember this, My child, I am the Savior. I did not come into your life and your world to condemn you. I came to save you, to call you out of darkness into My light.
Where I am there is light. Darkness flees before My face, and the darkness in you must flee and find no room if you are to dwell in My light. I call you to be a light-dweller and a light-bearer, and My grace is sufficient for you.
Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088202
Gregorian Chant: The Eternal Song | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Cantor Follow the theme! Friday Lauds opens with Psalm 51, perhaps the most famous of all the penitential psalms — Have mercy on me, O God. As we began Lauds last Friday, I thought again about the fact we always begin Friday morning asking God##039;s mercy. However, as we continued through the service, the word mercy began to present itself in other places — in the opening of the 2nd psalm # 143, [ 146 more words. ]
By Cantor
Follow the theme!
Friday Lauds opens with Psalm 51, perhaps the most famous of all the penitential psalms – Have mercy on me, O God. As we began Lauds last Friday, I thought again about the fact we always begin Friday morning asking God’s mercy. However, as we continued through the service, the word mercy began to present itself in other places — in the opening of the 2nd psalm # 143, O Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in the brief response, Make me to hear your mercy in the morning; in the Gospel antiphon, By the inmost mercies of our God, the rising sun has visited us from on high; and the 4th verse of the Benedictus, to show mercy to our fathers. I realized that we had been moved through an entire service by the theme of God’s mercy!
This idea of a theme throughout a worship service — the Divine Office or the Eucharist — is not new. On the contrary, it is quite old! But the power of a theme to speak is not diminished by time, only enhanced. Mary Berry used to call these themes the “hidden gems.”
Credit for Chant Image:Concert of Gregorian Chant – Mdina, Malta
By Cantor
Follow the theme!
Friday Lauds opens with Psalm 51, perhaps the most famous of all the penitential psalms – Have mercy on me, O God. As we began Lauds last Friday, I thought again about the fact we always begin Friday morning asking God’s mercy. However, as we continued through the service, the word mercy began to present itself in other places — in the opening of the 2nd psalm # 143, O Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in the brief response, Make me to hear your mercy in the morning; in the Gospel antiphon, By the inmost mercies of our God, the rising sun has visited us from on high; and the 4th verse of the Benedictus, to show mercy to our fathers. I realized that we had been moved through an entire service by the theme of God’s mercy!
This idea of a theme throughout a worship service — the Divine Office or the Eucharist — is not new. On the contrary, it is quite old! But the power of a theme to speak is not diminished by time, only enhanced. Mary Berry used to call these themes the “hidden gems.”
Credit for Chant Image:Concert of Gregorian Chant – Mdina, Malta
November 16 Echoes of Eternity
Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.
Hebrews 4:11
My child, do not despise My chastening and do not doubt My love. Bend your neck to My yoke, and do not resist My leading. I know the way that is best for you. You do not know the way. Left to yourself, you would wander far afield from My path, and so, in mercy, I check and turn. Be not dismayed at these turns in the road. Do not willfully push past them, but trust the processes that I am using for your good. Go over the lessons you have learned and remember how much you still need to grow in faith and trust in me. Blessed are those who persevere in this path and do not “kick over the traces” by which I would steer them. You can choose to “stay the course” I have set before you. Do not resist My leading and do not doubt My love.
Monk##039;s Prayer:
At the monastic center
is always a cloister
an orchestrated emptiness,
a place of light,
a fountain to feed
the heart##039;s garden.
Give me this life:
a center empty
of all but light,
the stillness of Eden
before fruit was plucked,
my heart a spring
of living water.
— Bonnie Thurston
November 15 Echoes of Eternity
I know, O Lord, that Thy judgments are right, and that Thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.
Psalm 119:75
I, the Lord, try the hearts of those I love. The furnace of affliction burns away the dross of self-love, the overgrowth of worldly cares. Though it seems hard, even cruel, it is love in action. Few understand this, and many of My children allow themselves to become confused and bewildered when the afflictions come. The heart must be tried, because it is fickle and untrustworthy. Your affections are not pure, but are mixed with personal desires that have nothing to do with My
will for you. So with these “severe mercies,” I trim away and purge away—with your cooperation and assent. Nothing about these trials is automatic, for I do not force your will. Be aware, My child, of the quality of mercy in all your afflictions—emotional and physical. They are meant to free you of guilt, fear, and false goals.
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The perfect gift for anyone who can’t make it to a service for Christmas Eve—Beloved Carols and the traditional Christmas story from the Gospel of Mathew. It will become a favorite tradition for years to come!
http://www.paracletepress.com/keeping-christmas-beloved-carols-and-the-christmas-story.html
Flash Friday— Life is A Gift: A Book for Thankful Hearts— $10 Today!
#quot;The most important prayer in the world is just two words long: ##039;Thank you##039;. #quot; — Meister Eckhart
http://www.paracletepress.com/life-is-a-gift-a-book-for-thankful-hearts.html
November 14 Echoes of Eternity
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
II Corinthians 4:6
You are blessed, My child, when your mind is stayed on Me. When you allow your mind to wander in forbidden paths, thorns and pain await you. I said “allow” because you must give your mind permission to wander in paths of darkness.
My light is ever shining. It is always available to My children. I do not withhold it from those who are willing to seek it and walk in it. So choose light rather than darkness. Choose life rather than death. Choose My peace rather than torment. You are blessed when your mind is stayed on Me.
An Ecounter With Joy http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088194
An Ecounter With Joy | The Community of Jesus
www.communityofjesus.org
By Sr. Nun Other If I were to write a musical, I would juxtapose two hymns that are beautifully simple, and simply beautiful. Our Communion hymn for last week was the 18th. century Shaker hymn, Simple Gifts. I stood near the altar during the singing of it, surrounded by delightful mosaic tile flowers, insects, butterflies, mammals, and sea creatures. They swirled and flourished beneath my feet with enviable freedom and energy, content to be as God created them. [ 93 more words. ]
By Sr. Nun Other
If I were to write a musical, I would juxtapose two hymns that are beautifully simple, and simply beautiful. Our Communion hymn for last week was the 18th. century Shaker hymn, Simple Gifts. I stood near the altar during the singing of it, surrounded by delightful mosaic tile flowers, insects, butterflies, mammals, and sea creatures. They swirled and flourished beneath my feet with enviable freedom and energy, content to be as God created them. Mind and imagination took over, and I added my own (non auditory!) touch as we sang: ‘Tis the gift to be simple,’tis the gift to be free…all things bright and beautiful…’tis the gift to come down where we ought to be…all creatures great and small…in the place just right….all things wise and wonderful…in the valley of love and delight… the Lord God made us all! Creation interrupts our busy, sometimes chaotic lives, to teach simplicity of heart, humbleness of spirit, and unfailing trust in God.
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November 13 Echoes of Eternity
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His.
II Timothy 2:19
I have spoken to your fear and to your faith. I have laid a sure foundation on which to walk and stand. My foundation is sure—it cannot fail because it is Mine. Too many times, My child, you have stepped aside and stood on false foundations. When they gave way and betrayed your trust, fear grew in you. Now that your eyes have been opened and enlightened, you can choose to remain upon that Solid Rock which cannot fail. Build there and you will have nothing to fear when the storms come.
Surprised by Joy http://www.communityofjesus.org/?p=4088191
Surprised by Joy | The Community of Jesus
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By Melodious Monk I haven##039;t wanted to get out of bed all week. I wasn##039;t sure if it was tiredness, the gloomy weather, or all of the above! I couldn##039;t muster enough will-power to make this feeling go away. I asked for help from friends, tried exercising, praying, eating differently, but even the parts of the week I look forward to and expect to uplift me, didn##039;t help. [ 124 more words. ]
By Melodious Monk
I haven’t wanted to get out of bed all week. I wasn’t sure if it was tiredness, the gloomy weather, or all of the above! I couldn’t muster enough will-power to make this feeling go away. I asked for help from friends, tried exercising, praying, eating differently, but even the parts of the week I look forward to and expect to uplift me, didn’t help. Sunday a group of young kids from Boston came to sing in our church. As I came through the back door of our Church in the afternoon, I heard their sound, and stopped. I had forgotten these suburban area kids had traveled down to the Cape to spend a day at our facilities. I ran to the back door to peak in on their rehearsal. Youthfulness, joy and honesty rang around the room. I stopped and listened long enough to see and hear the joy it was for these kids to sing. It made me smile, and remember that sometimes we must just keep putting one foot in front of another, not knowing when God might use a moment to re-awaken us inside.
Sybil MacBeth, the Praying in Color lady, makes a confession and then challenges us to take a moment on November 30, the First Sunday in Advent, to contemplate new, deeper, more playful ways to approach the season of the Nativity.Watch her here…
Advent Video.MOV
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