“The Yokes On Me and You!” – Mt 11:28-30

Can you believe we are still below normal for snowfall totals this year!  My children are excited though: they get another day off school.  What they can’t comprehend is that they will have to go longer into June, to make up for all the snow days they have had this year. 

Today, I am reflecting on how our burdens weigh us down, and how we can lighten the load. 

Bibile Study

 

Quote or Joke of the Day:

  

A person who seeks help for a friend, while needy himself, will be answered first. — The Talmud

  

Today’s Meditation:

  

 ”Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”  (NAB Mt 11:28-30)

  

Can you picture a draft horse or big bull with a large wooden beam across their shoulders, and tied around their necks; straining under the pressure of pulling a heavy object through the dark, rocky, and thick clay soil.  We are doing the same thing right now!  Got your attention; didn’t I! 

We carry a large amount of burdens with us daily.  Call it a yoke, or call it a cross; the weight of our problems pushes against us, and we have to wade through the tension of our burdens, in order to continue on our path.  What are these burdens: debt, illness, food and utility costs, college education, and our children’s everyday care are just a few.  We carry enough problems to weigh us down, but most of us choose to also carry the weight of our loved ones as well. 

These verses are similar to Ben Sirach’s invitation to learn wisdom and submit to her yoke.  In Sirach 51:23, 26, it is written, “Come aside to me, you untutored, and take up lodging in the house of instruction; Submit your neck to her yoke, that your mind may accept her teaching.  For she is close to those who seek her, and the one who is in earnest finds her.” 

We need to learn from the wisdom given to us from our elders, and from the Bible.  The answers are there for the finding.  Don’t forget to also pray in the attempt to gain wisdom and understanding.  Prayer is essential in helping redistribute the load we are carrying.  Our burdens seem a lot lighter when the Holy Spirit is there to help carry it. 

Jesus invites us to take our burdens of daily living by taking the ‘yoke of obedience’ to HIS word, where we will find rest.  In the Old Testament book of Jeremiah [6:16], it was prophesied, “Thus says the LORD: Stand beside the earliest roads and its history, and the lessons to be learned from it.  Ask the pathways of old which is the way to good, and walk it; thus you will find rest for your souls.” 

 ”Jesus, please be with me and lighten my load.  You know what I can handle, and I trust that you will not give me more than is possible for me.  Amen.” 

  

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

  

*****

  

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #9:

  

The Virgin Mary, humble servant of the Lord, was open to His every word and call. She was embraced by Francis with indescribable love and declared the protectress and advocate of his family. The Secular Franciscans should express their ardent love for her by imitating her complete self-giving and by praying earnestly and confidently. 

“The Innocence of Youth!” – Mk 10:14-15

Monday morning, and I have already slid off the road, and have fallen on the ice.  In other words, a typical winter precipitation event in Hazelwood, MO – ICE with the SNOW!!

 

Today is the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.  Very Impressive, and morally sound organization. 

Todays reflection is about the innocence of youth.

 

Quote or Joke of the Day:

 

When you cease to make a contribution you begin to die. — Eleanor Roosevelt

 

Today’s Meditation:

 

 … “Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.  Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.”  (NAB Mk 10:14-15)

 

I love my children in a way that only another parent can understand.   Children have a dependance on their parents for their needs in life.  They know “Mom and Dad” get the food they eat, the clothes they wear, and the toys they want.  More basic is that when hurt, mommy and daddy will ‘make it all better!”  We parents do this by simply kissing the area hurt, and say “It’s all better now.”

The innocence of youth gives way to the seperation of the teenage minds.  I am at this stage in my children’s lives, and I so miss those young years when I was needed in their lives in a direct way, and not in the background.  It seems the older we get, the more sceptical we get.  Maybe scepticism is part of that original sin inherited from Adam & Eve.

What is Jesus meaning by this verse, that he said in a period of frustration and mild anger towards His apostles thwart of children coming to Jesus.  He wanted all to know that whoever doesn’t accept the kingdom of God like a child, by being  in total dependence upon and obedience to the gospel, is not going to inherit paradise.  In Matthew 18:3-4, Jesus states,  “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.   The child is held up as a model for the disciples, not because of any supposed innocence of children, but because of their complete dependence on, and trust in, their parents.  The disciples must be completely dependant and totally trust God. 

Another thing about children is their ease of humility.  SOmetimes, we parents do not see humility in our kids, but just look the next time another ‘authority figure’ is present.  My kids are alway polite in public, especially when’adults’ are present.  They seem to get quiet and not make eye contact easily when in the presence of our parish priest, the school principal, or one of their teachers or coaches.  Jesus said, “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. “ 

Maybe going through a ’second’ childhood isn’t a bad thing, when it comes to getting into heaven.

“Lord, help me to find that child-like faith that I need to appreciate you.  I love you with all my heart and soul.  Help me to love you even more.  Please be there when I call for my “daddy” in times of need.  Amen.

  

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

 

*****

 

Franciscan Saint of the Day: St. Giles Mary of St. Joseph

 

Saint Giles Mary lived from 1729-1812 during the time of Napoleon Bonaparte. He led a life of humility in servitude to his Franciscan friary and service to the people of Naples. He is known as the “Consoler of Naples” as his went his way begging and telling everyone “Love God, love God.”

(From http://www.franciscan-sfo.org website)

 

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #8:

 

As Jesus was the true worshipper of the Father, so let prayer and contemplation be the soul of all they are and do.  Let them participate in the sacramental life of the Church, above all the Eucharist. Let them join in liturgical prayer in one of the forms proposed by the Church, reliving the mysteries of the life of Christ.

“Knock, Knock, Who’s There; and Where Am I?!” – Ps 118:20

A bright and sunny Sunday morning.  Blue skies; and I am absorbing as much as possible.  All I can say is, “GO COLTS!!!”

Todays reflection is about the “Pearly Gates.” 

Bible Study

 

Quote or Joke of the Day:

  

“Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you – not because they are nice, but because you are.” – Unknown

  

Today’s Meditation:

  

This is the LORD’S own gate, where the victors enter.  (NAB Ps 118:20)

  

St. Peter standing at the ‘pearly gates” with a large book, checking to make sure the person wanting through the gates is on the list.  This is just about every american childs, and some adults, belief of what going to heaven is all about.  No one that I know of can tell me exactly what heaven looks like, or how we “enter” heaven.  Its beauty and magnificence is beyond our comprehension.  I’m sure there are things that we have no knowledge of, and will be granted to us, after our life here ends. 

My vision of our journey, after death, is like a quasi-”Lets Make a Deal” event.  There are three doors in front of you.  One door is elaborately decorated, and brightly colored.  The other doors are plain, without any decorative elements whatsoever.  Matter of fact, these two doors have such tiny doorknobs on them, that it is difficult to grab and turn the knobs.  

You walk up to the doors, and two of the doors are locked!  Which door is “Your” unlocked door.  The elaborate and beautiful door hides behind it, HELL!  The other two doors lead directly to purgatory and heaven respectively.  Why is the door to hell beautiful, and the other doors to paradise plain?  Because they represent our life’s journey, to these doors. 

If you choose the path that is easy; full of self needs such as fame, fortune, power, and materialistic wants: and not for love of,  and for God; through prayer, abstinence, fasting, and wants for others: then the door representing your life on earth is the one bright and colorful.  But this door (and path you chose) leads to emptiness, for eternity.  Hell is a place where you CANNOT feel, or give love.  You cannot even love yourself.  No love means that the only feelings you can experience is hate, loath, fear and depression! 

The other doors represent our existence on earth as well.  A life where God is the center of our life.  A life of not only fun, but also sacrifice; love for others; and giving of self physically, spiritually, and financially, as means allow.  Does this mean we must suffer, and be poor?  Definitely not!  Many rich people are God centered; and many vagrants are evil centered.  All it means is that their chosen path of the future, after this life, is more important than the “bling” of being self-centered.  

Mortal sins lead us only to the beautiful door.  Mortal sins separate us from a relationship with God.  The only way to remove the stain of mortal sins is through the “Sacrament of Reconciliation” (confession). 

The other two doors, though plain, hide certain beauty behind them.  One leads directly to paradise; and the other to a place that prepares one for a future in paradise.  The former is opened very little, as few have no remnants of sin that need to be cleaned, prior to entrance.  The latter is a place of renewal, and remediation of our sins that have not separated us from God (venial sins for us catholic folk). 

“Lord, my heavenly Father, please be with me on my path to the doors of eternity.  I choose the plain doors over the bright door.  Please help me to get to the plain doors, so I may have eternity in your presence.  Amen”

  

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

  

*****

  

Franciscan Saint of the Day: St. Colette 1381-1447

  

In the little town of Corbie, France, Colette was born on January 12, 1381, of exemplary working people. She was a child of grace, an answer to her mother’s incessant prayers, for the latter was already 60 years old then and had been childless up to that time. 

The little girl took great pleasure in prayer, in compassion for the poor, and in rigorous mortification, making of her soul and of her tender body a sacrifice to God. Up to her 14th year she remained unusually small in stature; the was a great grief got her father. Colette begged God to console her father in this matter, and then she began to grow very rapidly to normal height. On the other hand, she asked God to deprive her of the rare beauty she possessed, which she believed might be the occasion of danger to herself and others; that request, too, was granted, and Colette developed features of a severe cast which inspired great respect. 

When both her parents had died, Colette, at the age of 22, obtained the permission of the Church authorities to shut herself up in a small abode directly adjoining the church; from a small window in it she could see the Blessed Sacrament. There she expected to spend the remainder of her life as an anchoress. She had embraced the rule of the Third Order of St. Francis, in accordance with which she endeavored to live in perfect poverty, severe mortification, and constant prayer in order to become daily more and more like the Seraphic Father. She received many consolations from heaven, but on the other hand she also experienced severe temptations and even corporal abuse from the spirits of darkness. 

Almighty God had destined Colette for something extraordinary. He excited in her the desire to re-introduce the strict observance of the rule of St. Clare, which many convents of Poor Clares then observed in a modified form. The humble virgin recoiled at the thought, which she tried to persuade herself was an illusion of the proud spirit of darkness. But the inspiration returned again and again, and when she continued to resist it, she was struck dumb and later on blind, until she finally resigned herself to the will of God, like Saul before Damascus. “Lord,” she sobbed in her heart, “what wilt Thou have me do? I am ready to do anything Thou desirest of me.” At once her speech and her sight were restored. The Lord sent her a special director under whose guidance she was to perform extraordinary things. And so, after spending four years in her retreat, and with the authority and the blessing of the pope, she established one convent of Poor Clares after another, so that the number reached 17 during her lifetime. After her death similar foundations were established in countries other than France, in which the primitive rule of St. Clare began to flourish anew. 

St. Colette endured untold hardships in fulfilling the task assigned to her, but heaven supported her even in visible ways; numerous miracles, including the raising to life of several dead persons, occurred in answer to her prayers and in confirmation of her work. So, the great foundress remained ever humble, regarding everything as the work of God, who often chooses the lowliest of people as His instruments. 

On this foundation of humility she endeavored to foster in her convents the spirit of prayer and simplicity of heart, She placed great value on the recitation of the Divine Office in choir, undoubtedly in remembrance of the practice existing in her native town, and infused this esteem into her fellow sisters. She was also filled with zeal for the salvation of souls, and once in a vision she saw souls falling into hell more swiftly than the snowflakes in a winter’s storm. 

After laboring for 40 years, she was to receive her eternal reward. She died in her convent at Ghent on March 6, 1447. At the moment of her departure from this world she appeared to several sisters in different convents. Pope Urban Viii beatified her, and Pope Pius VII solemnly canonized her in 1807. 

  

from: The Franciscan Book of Saints,

ed. by Marion Habig, ofm., © 1959 Franciscan Herald Press

 (From http://www.franciscan-sfo.org website)

 

  

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #6:

  

United by their vocation as “brothers and sisters of penance” and motivated by the dynamic power of the gospel, let them conform their thoughts and deeds to those of Christ by means of that radical interior change which the gospel calls “conversion.” Human frailty makes it necessary that this conversion be carried out daily.  On this road to renewal the sacrament of reconciliation is the privileged sign of the Father’s mercy and the source of grace. 

  

“The Path of Life You Chose!” – Ps 139:1

Saturday morning, and we survived the devastating 1/2 inch snowfall we had yesterday.  Look out your window and you may even see: if you look close!  I hope all have a great weekend.

  

I guess the snow just didn’t take the right path.  What a segway into todays reflection.

"The Good News"

 

Quote or Joke of the Day:

  

When everything is coming your way, you’re in the wrong lane.

  

Today’s Meditation:

   

For the leader. A psalm of David. O LORD, you have probed me, you know me: (NAB Ps 139:1)

  

The NAB verse is not easy to understand.  Another way of saying this is: ‘You may not know me, but I know everything about you.’  God knows everything about you, even before your birth.  How?  After all, how can one know everything, when we have options and free-will on every decision? 

There is no set course in life.  We are met with turns on our path each day; and sometimes many times each day.  Actually, if there are no ‘turns’ on your path, you need to be careful and look at your life.  Remember, the road to hell is a straight and easy path; and the road to heaven is difficult, twisted, rocky, and filled with barriers.  

Redemption and salvation is never easy.  It is something you earn, and not just given to you.  We are not told how to find our way, but we are given the tools to navigate the path.  What are those tools.  Prayer, fasting, confession, trust in God, and love for others.  

As for how God can know everything about us, even with all the different paths we are offered continuously; it is a “MYSTERY”!!  What is known is that He is with us no matter what path we take on this earth. 

“Lord, thank you for being with me on the path to eternal life with you.  Thank you for picking me up when I fall, and for carrying me when I am too tired to continue.  I love you and want so much to be in your presence.  Allow the Holy Spirit to work through me, as you wish.  Amen”

  

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

  

*****

  

Franciscan Saint of the Day: Sts Peter Baptist, and Companions d. 1597

  

About the year 1592 Hideyoshi, the military dictator of Japan, planned to invade and conquer the Philippine Islands, situated near his domain but belonging at the time to the Spanish crown. To negotiate peace, King Philip II of Spain delegated Father Peter Baptist Blasquez, a Franciscan of Manila, as his ambassador to Hideyoshi. 

Peter Baptist, who came from an ancient Spanish family of the nobility, was learned, capable, and known for his holy life. He arrived in Japan with three companions at the end of the month of June, 1593. He succeeded in winning the dictator to terms of peace, and even obtained permission to spread Christianity throughout Japan without interference. 

So Peter Baptist founded several convents of his order, built churches and hospitals, and in company with his associates converted hundreds of pagans to Christianity. Hideyoshi even offered them a neglected temple in his capital city Miyako, with permission to rebuild it as a church. 

The Japanese bonzes were much incensed at the turn of events. They got the dictator to believe that the missionaries had in mind to dethrone him and deliver up the country to the Spaniards. Enraged, Hideyoshi ordered the Franciscan missionaries and their helpers to be imprisoned and put to death as offenders against the crown. Forthwith the soldiers invaded the friars convents in December, 1596, and imprisoned the inmates. Peter Baptist was among the prisoners, together with his companions, the two priests Martin of the Ascension and Francis Blanco, the cleric Philip of Jesus, who was a native Mexican, the two lay brothers Francis of St. Michael and Gonsalvo Garcia. Included were also 17 Tertiaries who rendered services to the missionaries as catechists, teachers, sacristans, and infirmarians; likewise three Jesuits. 

On January 3, 1597, they were all led out of their cruel prison to the public square at Miyako. Here they were informed that they were to be crucified, and as a mark of dishonor a portion of their left ear was cut off. Then they were driven through the city on hurdles, while the sentence of death was carried on a pole at the head of the procession, and the rabble was given free hand to ill treat and insult them. 

On January 4 they were again bound and thrown on hurdles, to be taken to Nagasaki for execution. The sad journey lasted 4 weeks, which in itself was cruel martyrdom because of the brutality of the bailiffs and the fury of the people in the towns and villages through which the martyrs passed. To this were added cold, hunger, and privations of every sort. 

They arrived at Nagasaki on the morning of February 5th. The crosses on which the glorious confessors were to die had been prepared on a hill outside of town. The martyrs were immediately taken there and each one was bound to his cross. With loud voices they thanked God for the grace of being permitted to die like Christ their Lord, and they praised Him with psalms and hymns. As the martyrs hung crucified, executioners ran the body of each one through transversely with two spears, Father Peter Baptist being the last. 

Hardly had the martyrs breathed forth their souls when God glorified them with extraordinary signs and marvels. In consequence, Pope Urban VIII beatified them in the year 1627 and permitted the annual celebration of the feast of the Japanese martyrs. In the feast of Pentecost, June 8, 1862, in presence of a great number of bishops assembled from all parts of the world, Pope Pius IX inscribed them in the catalog of the saints as powerful intercessors against enemies of the holy cross. 

from: The Franciscan Book of Saints, ed. by Marion Habig, ofm.,
© 1959 Franciscan Herald Press
 (From http://www.franciscan-sfo.org website)

  

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #6:

  

They have been made living members of the Church by being buried and raised with Christ in baptism; they have been united more intimately with the Church by profession. Therefore, they should go forth as witnesses and instruments of her mission among all people, proclaiming Christ by their life and words.  Called like Saint Francis to rebuild the Church and inspired by his example, let them devote themselves energetically to living in full communion with the pope, bishops, and priests, fostering an open and trusting dialog of apostolic effectiveness and creativity. 

“PUSH Through any Suffering” – 2 Cor 1:5-6

It is going to snow today.  For those in the St. Louis area, can you believe we are 7 inches below normal for snow fall so far this year?  Surprised me also.   Just remember, these gray and depressing days are eventually going to open up to a bright, blue sky with a big yellow ball hovering our head. 

Bibile Study

 Quote or Joke of the Day:

 

If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of payments.

 

Today’s Meditation:

 

For as Christ’s sufferings overflow to us, so through Christ does our encouragement also overflow.  If we are afflicted, it is for your encouragement and salvation; if we are encouraged, it is for your encouragement, which enables you to endure the same sufferings that we suffer.  (NAB 2 Cor 1:5-6)

 

The BIG question:  Why is there so much suffering, and why does God allow it?  Why did I lose my job?  Why is my child handicapped?  How can you allow child abuse, and child pornography?  I could go on about the misery we experience during our existence on this earth.

I am not sure I can answer this question for others.  I can only give the answer that has come to me, through prayer, meditation, and trust in God. 

For those that do not know, I have had my tribulations with pain and suffering.  I was let go from a job I truly treasured, due to medical reasons.  My asthma and COPD is at a stage that I need to be on oxygen at times,  I have degenerative disk disease, and arthritis so severe that I use a cane or walker.  I am in so much pain regularly that sometimes I don’t even realize I am in pain; but find myself sweating profusely, and grimacing – then realizing the amount of pain I am experiencing.  Pain meds do very little, and I refuse to take meds that will “gork” me out.

My medical conditions have humbled me.  I believe the shortness of breathing (SOB) and pain are my personal type of “stigmata” that reminds me of the pain Christ endured.  My tribulations are a form of prayer for me.  I ‘give up’ my pain for the souls in purgatory; which seems to help me get through the difficult times.

Suffering and encouragement brings us in union with Christ and His suffering on the cross for us “sinners.”  Suffering draws us apart from our worldly cares.  It’s ironic that our suffering in life here, brings to eternal salvation in paradise.  Jesus showed us, through His life on earth as man, that His spirit is whole and permanent, and His body was only temporary.

When in pain, discomfort, or other forms of suffering, don’t just stand there and moan, whine, or “bitch” about your situation.  Put your suffering in perspective and “PUSH”:

P – Pray U – Until S – Something H – Happens

 Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

 

*****

 

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #5:

 

Secular Franciscans, therefore, should seek to encounter the living and active person of Christ in their brothers and sisters, in Sacred Scripture, in the Church, and in liturgical activity. The faith of St. Francis, who often said, “I see nothing bodily of the Most High Son of God in this world except His most holy body and blood,” should be the inspiration and pattern of their Eucharistic life.

“I Certainly Don’t Have a Drinking Problem!” – Isaiah 55:1

My oldest son is interested in “Music Education” for his future.  He received permission to “job shadow” a music educator today, instead of going to his normal high school classes.  I guess this is a benefit of being an “A” student (and a suck-up).  He thinks today is going to be a blow-off:  I am laughing my @#$ off.  Jeanine and I think he will ‘crash’ when he gets home.

Today’s reflection is all about water. 

Bible Study

 

Quote or Joke of the Day:

  

Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.

  

Today’s Meditation:

  

All you who are thirsty, come to the water! You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; Come, without paying and without cost, drink wine and milk!  (NAB Isaiah  55:1)

  

Why does water have a special place in the bible, and in religion?  Well, without water, there is no life.  Our space programs biggest function and goal is to find water elsewhere in space.  Humans are 98% water!  Water has the capabilities of quenching thirst, and moving boulders.  Water can keep the grass green, and can cut through granite to make canyons.  And in the future, water may be fuel for our cars.  Without water, one can only live 3 or so days: but can live 2+ weeks without food. 

From a religion viewpoint, water is also essential.  Jesus was baptized by his cousin John the Baptist, with water from the Jordan River.  This Rite of the Catholic Church, and many other churches, requires water as an essential element.  In the Catholic Church this water must flow across the forehead of the person being baptised.  Why?  Because we are baptized with “living water!”  This water represents a washing away of our sins.  There is an action present in the movement of the water; and there is an action in the ‘mark’ placed on our soul.  There is also an action in that the Holy Spirit becomes present in the baptised, making this one of the most beautiful events anyone can experience. 

God’s salvation is freely given and extended to His people, and to all nations.  Through Him, benefits promised to David are renewed: in Isaiah 12:3 it is written, ” With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation.”  Also, in John 7:37 it says, “On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood up and exclaimed, ‘Let anyone who thirsts come to me and drink.’”   

Jesus is promising, through the living water of baptism, that the Holy Spirit will be a part of our lives.  If anything is for sure, it is that Jesus knows His water.  He chose where to be baptised; He could walk over its surface; and could make a miraculously great drink from it when needed. 

“Lord, thank you for the gift of water.  A molecule that in its solid state soothes our physical thirst, and washes away our sins spiritually. In its vapor form, it reaches for the heavens, and renews our earth.  God, you are a magnificent chemist!  Amen.”

  

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

  

*****

  

Franciscan Saint of the Day: St. Joseph of Leonissa 1556-1612

  

In the year 1556, at Leonissa in the Abruzzi in the kingdom of Naples, the devout couple John Desiderius and Frances Paulina were blessed with a son, to whom they gave the name Euphranius at baptism. Under their faithful guidance the little boy made such progress in piety that at a very tender age he resolved upon certain feast days, and took the greatest pleasure in practices of piety. 

Later on, pursuing his studies at Viterbo, he attracted the attention and admiration of everyone by his industry and virtuous life to such a degree that a nobleman in that city offered him his daughter in marriage together with a large dowry. But the Euphranius has already made a nobler choice. He left school and entered the Franciscan order among the Capuchins at Leonissa, in the year 1573, under the name of Joseph. Here he found happiness and peace in things which an effeminate age abhors most: mortification and penance. 

His dwelling was a poor cell, so small and narrow that he could hardly stand, sit, or lie down in it. His bed was the bare earth, a block of wood was his pillow. He ate by preference food which the others could not or would not eat, such as stale beans and mouldy bread. In spite of the great strain associated with a life of preaching, he persevered in doing such penance even after he had been entrusted with the task. With works of penance he strove to win over those souls to God that he could not move with words. 

In the year 1587, his zeal for souls urged him to go to Constantinople. He could not long conceal from the fanatical Turks the good that he was doing, especially among the Christian captives on the galleys. They seized him, pierced his right hand and right foot with sharp hooks, and hung him up on a high gibbet, then kindled a weak fire under him in order to roast him alive slowly. and gradually to suffocate him. He suffered untold tortures for three days. On the fourth day he was miraculously freed by an angel and received the command to return to Italy to preach the Gospel to the poor. From now on he traveled untiringly through all the villages and country towns of Umbria. He strongly denounced evils of that day, such as frivolous dances and plays. In his associations with the people, however, he resembled a lamb in his meekness and charity. His very bearing won for him the affection of the people, and effected the most remarkable reconciliations between persons who had been living in enmity for years, and between families and communities that had been at variance with each other. 

Often while at work or at prayer he would be rapt in ecstasy. He wrought many miracles, and was vouchsafed the gift of prophesy and of reading human hearts. He also foretold the day of his death. It was February 4, 1612, when he entered into the joy of his Lord in the convent at Amatrice. His body was taken to his native town of Leonissa, and reposes there, glorified by many miracles. 

Pope Clement XII beatified Joseph, and Pope Benedict XIV canonized him in the year 1745. 

from: The Franciscan Book of Saints,

ed. by Marion Habig, ofm., © 1959 Franciscan Herald Press

 (From http://www.franciscan-sfo.org website)

  

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #4

  

:The rule and life of the Secular Franciscans is this: to observe the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ by following the example of St. Francis of Assisi who made Christ the inspiration and the center of his life with God and people.  Christ, the gift of the Father’s love, is the way to him, the truth into which the Holy Spirit leads us, and the life which he has come to give abundantly.  Secular Franciscans should devote themselves especially to careful reading of the gospel, going from gospel to life and life to gospel. 

“I Have the Secret for Sinning!” – 1 Jn 2: 1-2

Fifty years ago today, the “Music Died!”   Buddy Holly, Ricky Valence, and the “Big Bopper” died in a plane crash.  My kids did not know who any of these great performers were!  I feel so old.

Today’s reflection is about sin, and how we can deal with it. 

Bible Study

Quote or Joke of the Day:

 

A quarrel is like buttermilk: once it’s out of the churn, the more you shake it, the more sour it grows. — Irish Proverb

 

Today’s Meditation:

 

My children, I am writing this to you so that you may not commit sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous one.  He is expiation for our sins, and not for our sins only but for those of the whole world.   (NAB 1 Jn 2: 1-2)

 

I may consider this the most important verse I have read in the bible so far.  I am a sinner, and I know of no one alive that is not a sinner.  Both of my parents were sin free, but have left this earthly presence to be with God in heaven?!  OK; maybe not sin free, but close to it!

Some people, including me, have used the term “human nature” when it comes to our tendency to sin.  This statement is wrong.  Our human nature was to be without sin, and our bodies were to be immortal.  Due to the sin that occurred in the Garden of Eden, known now as original sin, we lost our immortality.  We also became susceptible to the urges of the devil in the desires of body, vanity, and wealth.

God obviously loves his creations.  He did not destroy the third of His angels that mutinied, but only evicted them from heaven.  After the devil corrupted  Adam and Eve, he still did not destroy the prince of darkness, but created obstacles for them, and made man’s will capable and strong enough to defeat the devil.

Adam and Eve were not immune from Gods wrath with regards to disobedience.  Because of their sin, they also were evicted from their home, but given the knowledge and means to live a mortal life.  God also decided to come to earth in human form, to redeem us from sin, and to give us hope for our eternal future.

Jesus did not come for another 5000+ years after Adam and Eve’s incident.  Why did God wait so long?  Only He knows for sure: anything else is speculation.  God does not handle time the way we do.  I know somewhere in the bible is the phrase something like, “a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like a day.”  Eternity has no start or end time, and neither do we!

What I do know is this:

Jesus was born to a virgin free of sin;
He came to save us from original sin;
He was scourged, and crucified on the cross for our sins;
He died and was burried;
and on the third day He rose from the grave and ascended to heaven.

Our slates our cleaned if we believe in Jesus Christ as our advocate and savior from sin.  We still have tendencies to sin, but we also have the capabilities to ask for forgiveness.  God loves us so much that He will forgive us of anything if only we ask!

“O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven, and the pains of hell; but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, Who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life.  Amen.”

 

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

 

*****

 

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #3:

 

The present rule, succeeding “Memoriale Propositi” (1221) and the rules approved by the Supreme Pontiffs Nicholas IV and Leo XIII, adapts the Secular Franciscan Order to the needs and expectations of the Holy Church in the conditions of changing times. Its interpretation belongs to the Holy See and its application will be made by the General Constitutions and particular statutes.

“Let the Sun Shine In!” – Ez 43: 4-5

It is Tuesday.  Not much is happening, except P. Phil did not see his shadow.  I am confused.  Does that mean 6 more weeks of winter, or that spring is only 6 weeks away?  Today is the Feast of the Presentation.  Jesus was taken to the temple and brought into the Jewish community.

 

Todays reflection is about the Sun, and the Son.  I even give a little homage to the musical “HAIR”!! 

"The Good News"

Quote or Joke of the Day:

 

The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.

 

Today’s Meditation:

 

… as the glory of the LORD entered the temple by way of the gate which faces the east, but spirit lifted me up and brought me to the inner court. And I saw that the temple was filled with the glory of the LORD.  (NAB Ez 43: 4-5)

 

“Rises in the East, and sets in the West.”  When I was a child, altars were preferred to be placed so all could be facing east, and even the priest, during the Eucharistic part of the mass would have his back to the congregation; facing east as well.  Interestingly, there is a resurgence of the “Old” mass in two different forms, with one having the priest standing this way again.  If interested, there are a couple of church’s in the St. Louis area presenting the “traditional” form of the catholic mass; and EWTN also airs a form of the mass at 11 a.m. each day.

The past month has been fairly depressing: weather wise.  With the exception of a few days, there has been no sun in St. Louis for the past 4 weeks.  The days when the sun had peeked its little rays out, brought with it an increase in mood, excitement, and smiles on my family and friends. 

I sit at the kitchen table to write these reflections, and it just so happens that the kitchen windows are the first to allow the morning sun into the house.  I so much enjoy the light and warmth it brings.  It seems the kids get ‘motivated’ a little fast when the sun shines in the windows.  The light and warmth of the sun brings with it – life!

So does another “sun”.  The Son of God brings life to all who wish to bask in HIS light and warmth.  Jesus entered into our lives, and entered Jewish society on the eastern edge of ancient Jerusalem, where the temple was located.  Surprisingly, or maybe just ironic, is the fact that Jesus was crucified , died, and was buried at Golgotha, on the western edge of ancient Jerusalem; ‘rising in the east and setting in the west’ only to rise again. 

As the “SON” ascended to heaven, so does the “SUN” ascends in the heavens each and every day.  We may not always see the sun, but its light and warmth is still there; block by the clouds.  We might not always see the “SON,” but HIS light and warmth is still there; blocked by the clouds of sin, dissatisfaction, and doubt.  Look through the clouds and see the SON/SUN!!!

My prayer comes from a verse of a somewhat famous song from the musical “Hair.”  I think it says it all.

“Oh, let it shine, c’mon
Now everybody just sing along
Let the sun shine in
Open up your heart and let it shine on in
When you are lonely, let it shine on
Got to open up your heart and let it shine on in
And when you feel like you’ve been mistreated
And your friends turn away
Just open your heart, and shine it on in”

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

 

*****

 

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #2:

 

The Secular Franciscan Order holds a special place in this family circle. It is an organic union of all Catholic fraternities scattered throughout the world and open to every group of the faithful. In these fraternities the brothers and sisters, led by the Spirit, strive for perfect charity in their own secular state. By their profession they pledge themselves to live the gospel in the manner of Saint Francis by means of this rule approved by the Church.

 

“Are the Haiti Eathquakes a Good Thing?!” – Is 25:4

Monday morning, and a sick child at home.  Please keep “ME” in your prayers. 

 

 

Todays reflection is about Haiti.  Very interesting, and reflective thoughts about what is happening there.  Agree, or disagree?  Post a comment on the blog site and let me know

Haiti Earthquake

Quote or Joke of the Day:

  

 ”The more we are afflicted in this world, the greater is our assurance in the next; the more sorrow in the present, the greater will be our joy in the future” ~St. Isadore of Seville

  

Today’s Meditation:

  

For you are a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in distress; Shelter from the rain, shade from the heat. As with the cold rain (NAB Is 25:4)

  

It has been 20 days since the tragic events that destroyed a large part of an already devastated country located in an otherwise gorgeous area of this earth.  Haiti is depressed by a corrupt government, has squalled living conditions, and a near total unemployment rate for many, many years.  I cannot even picture a country or landscape with literally no trees left; as the wood had been scavaged to provide fuel to cook and heat with. 

I have a few friends that regularly go to Haiti to help with building projects, such as schools and water wells.  It makes me sick to think that a large percentage of the population has no access to clean water.  They are forced to use water contaminated with animal and human feces for their drinking water, and for cleaning the few rags of clothes they own.  Meanwhile, government leaders eat well, and (til recently) lived in air-conditioned quarters just a few feet away, with little if any discomfort. 

The earthquake, and subsequent aftershocks, have killed an unknown amount of people, and has devastated nearly all Haitians, there and abroad in one way or another.  The little they did have, is gone!  Relief is spoiling on the tarmac of the airport because it can’t get to the people easily.  Crime and unrest is happening throughout the capital city itself.  And the government of Haiti is basically non-existent. 

Things there certainly can’t get worse.  Even an infamous Evangelist has said that the Haitians are being punished by God for selling their souls to the devil, hundreds of years ago. 

Surprisingly; in my observations of this tragedy, I have seen the entire world come to their aid.  Pope Benedict XVI was the first to call for his relief system to immediately be activated, and the next day CRS (Catholic Relief Services) was on the ground in Haiti.  Monies are being collected, and supplies are being bundled, and sent to the capital city for distribution to the various areas affected.  The U.S. military are ‘in country’ repairing the infrastructure, finding and burying the dead, manning needed airport and storage facilities, and helping security forces to keep order.  There is a long way to go, but there is hope of betterment for the Haitians future. 

Something else I have noticed.  The Haitians themselves are always seen praying or singing religious songs in news releases.  Even while searching for, or dealing with, the dead; it is done with an obvious love and respect for that person.  To me, the Haitians have a strong religious belief, and a strong love for mankind.  I don’t believe the Haitians themselves have lost hope.  They have maintained their love for God throughout this trial.  God is their refuge and shelter, and they know it.  Can we have that strong of a faith? 

“Lord Christ, please be with these people, and with all that are helping them.  Your commandment to love one another as we love you is being shown in this poor country.  You have always said that you are with the meek.  The meek of Haiti are giving us an example of how to love you in times of distress.  Please help me to love you, and all others, regardless of how pathetic some may appear to me.  Amen.”

  

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

  

*****

  

Franciscan Saint of the Day:  St. Veridiana

  

St. Veridiana was born at Castelfiorentino in Tuscany, Italy (on the outskirts of Florence) in 1182 to an impoverished noble family. At age 12 she went to live with an uncle. She performed housekeeping duties and admistrative work in his grain business. Later, she abandoned all she had and dedicated her life to religion. Then she went on a pilgrimage to the sanctuary of Santiago in Compostela, Spain. After visiting Rome and the tombs of Peter and Paul, she returned home and, thereafter, lived as a recluse in a hermitage near the Vallumbrosan Abbey about 20 miles from Florence. Her cell is said to have been next to a chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony. Here, she led a life of great austerity until her death 34 years later in the year 1242. St. Francis of Assisi visited her in 1211, at which time she is said to have become a Franciscan tertiary. Devotion to Saint Veridiana was approved by Pope Clement VII in 1533. 

(From http://www.franciscan-sfo.org website)

  

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #1:

  

The Franciscan family, as one among many spiritual families raised up by the Holy Spirit in the Church, unites all members of the people of God — laity, religious, and priests – who recognize that they are called to follow Christ in the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi.  In various ways and forms but in life-giving union with each other, they intend to make present the charism of their common Seraphic Father in the life and mission of the Church. 

 

“I Told You So: Beforehand!!” – Is 9:5

Today is “Sun”day.  I love the blue shies, and that bright object in the sky, that people have told me is the sun.  It’s been sooooo long since I have seen it, and I am told it will be disappearing again tomorrow.

Today’s reflection is from today’s Mass reading, and is about an Old Testament prophesy of the coming Messiah: Jesus.  A great reflection.  Please add my reflection page to your favorites list.  I would appreciate it, and maybe we both can learn. 

 

Quote or Joke of the Day:

 

A priest, a rabbi, and a minister walk into a bar. The bartender says, “What is this, some kind of joke?”

 

Today’s Meditation:

 

For a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.  (NAB Is 9:5)

 

Let me just some this verse up: it is about the birth and reign of Jesus Christ!  Religious scholars call this a “typology,” which is the study of religious texts for the purpose of identifying episodes in them, that appear to prophesy later events.  Typologies prove that the Old Testament wasn’t thrown out with Jesus’ birth.  After all, Jesus as a Jew, and lived by what was told  in the Old Testament.  The New Testament does not give up the old; but changes the old covenant, in exchange for a new covenant of redemption through Christ’s suffering and death on the cross.

The child in this verse refers to the Old Testament Immanuel; a child.  Other references (typologies) can be found in Isaiah 7:14 (about his birth to a virgin), Isaiah 8:8 (about being from Judah), and Isaiah 11:1 (About a person with the knowledge of the Lord, that will come from the stump of Jesse).

Other parts of this verse have very distinctive meanings.  “Upon his shoulder dominion rests” is about Christ’s authority. “Wonder-Counselor” means that Christ will be known for his wisdom and prudence.  “God-Hero” describes Christ as a warrior and a defender of his people, like God himself.  ”Father-Forever” refers to Christ being always devoted to his people.  Finally, “Prince of Peace” talks about his reign being characterized by peace.

Another way of putting this verse in today’s vernacular: Christ will be the strong, but sensitive type.  Others that I know with the same qualities of being authoritative, wise, prudent, defender, devoted, and peaceful: The Venerable Pope John Paul II, Saint Francis, Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta, me, Robert Redford, Archbishop Timothy Nolan, Archbishop Robert Carlson, and Servant of God Archbishop Fulton Sheen. 

“Lord, you know all that was, and all that will be.  Please stay with me while I stumble along my path to your redemptive love for me.  I love you with my mind, heart and soul.  Please live in me and guide me in the Christian way to live my life.  Amen”     

 

Pax et Bonum

Dan Halley, SFO

 

*****

 

Franciscan Saint of the Day:  St. John Bosco 1815-1888

 

St. John Bosco, one of the greatest saints of modern times, was born in a Piedmontese village in 1815. When he was 2 years old, he lost his father, a humble peasant farmer; and he was brought up by his saintly Tertiary mother, Margaret. It was no doubt due to her example and influence that John too joined the Third Order of St. Francis.

Even as a youngster, John recognized that it was his vocation in life to help poor boys; and he began to teach catechism to the boys of his own village and bring them to church. Acrobatic stunts and conjuring tricks were the means he used to get them together.

At 16 he entered the seminary at Chieri. He was so poor at the time, that the mayor contributed a hat, the parish priest a cloak, one parishioner a cassock, and another a pair of shoes. After he was ordained a deacon he passed on to the seminary in Turin; and there, with the approbation of his superiors, he began to gather together on Sundays poor apprentices and waifs of the city.

Not long after his ordination to the priesthood in June, 1841, he established what he called a Festive Oratory, a kind of Sunday school and recreation center for boys, in Turin. His mother came to be his housekeeper and mother of the Oratory. Two more Oratories in the same city followed. When Father John Bosco’s mother died in 1856, the Oratories housed 150 resident boys; and there were four Latin classes and four workshops, one of them a printing press. Ten young priests assisted Father John in his work. Father John was also much in demand as a preacher; and he spent half of his nights in writing popular books in order to provide good reading.

Father John’s confessor and spiritual director was the saintly Tertiary priest Joseph Cafasso; and Father John too gained the reputation of being a saint. Miracles, mostly of healing, were attributed to him. By his kindness and sympathy and his marvelous power of reading the thoughts of his boys, he exercised a profound influence upon his charges. He was able to rule them with apparent indulgence and absence of punishment, something the educationists of the day could not understand.

In 1854 Father John founded the religious order of Salesians, so called in honor of St. Francis de Sales. Its members devote themselves to the education of poor boys. The new society grew rapidly. Father John lived to see 38 houses established in the Old World and 26 in the New World. Today it is one of the largest orders of men in the Church.

Father John also founded a sisterhood called Daughters of St. Mary Auxiliatrix; and he organized many outside helpers into the Salesian Co-operators, who are pledged to assist in some way the educational labors of the Salesians. In 1930 they totalled 800,000.

Father John’s last great work was the building of Sacred Heart Church in Rome, a task which was entrusted to him by Pope Pius IX after it has seemed to be a hopeless project. The holy priest, who was everywhere acclaimed as a saint and wonderworker, gathered funds for the church in Italy and France; and somehow he succeeded where others had failed. But in doing so he wore himself out. and on January 31, 1888, he was called to his reward. Forty thousand persons came to pay their respects as his body lay in state in the church at Turin; and his funeral resembled a triumphal procession.

St. John was canonized in 1934.

Book of Saints, ed. by Marion Habig, ofm.,

© 1959 Franciscan Herald Press

(From http://www.franciscan-sfo.org website)

 

Secular Franciscan Order Motto:

     

Pax et Bonum

(Peace and All Good)