Saying Goodbye
16 years ago
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
December 26, 2008
Children of God
Peace truly sets us free to be the people God has created us to be. Before peace can bond nations, it must dwell in the hearts and lives of the citizens of the world, binding us together as children of God.
— John Dear on Peace: An Introduction to His Life and Work John Dear on Peace: An Introduction to His Life and Work
Activity
Tell the people you live with—your children, your spouse, your parents—that you love them. Try to give each one a sincere compliment during the day. Remember that often your voice and your arms express God's love.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Consciously strive to find Jesus in all the people you meet today.
—PledgePeace.org
Peace truly sets us free to be the people God has created us to be. Before peace can bond nations, it must dwell in the hearts and lives of the citizens of the world, binding us together as children of God.
— John Dear on Peace: An Introduction to His Life and Work John Dear on Peace: An Introduction to His Life and Work
Activity
Tell the people you live with—your children, your spouse, your parents—that you love them. Try to give each one a sincere compliment during the day. Remember that often your voice and your arms express God's love.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Consciously strive to find Jesus in all the people you meet today.
—PledgePeace.org
Friday, December 26, 2008
Molly Pictures
I thought these were so cute. Just a note to let you know that you mean more to me and u could ever know. Thank you so much for the gift card we will definitly enjoy going to dinner. My love and support will always be there for you unconditionally forever. Love You Aunt Laura
Thursday, December 25, 2008
December 25, 2008
We Have Seen His Glory…'
Jesus has arrived; the Incarnation -- God becoming one of us -- has happened. Nothing any human being has ever accomplished comes close to this miracle. Nothing in human history will ever be the same now that God, the Word, the only Son, has become one of us. “And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14).
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Choose a visible sign to wear or keep close by, something which reminds you that Jesus is your Savior. Use it to keep you interactive with him in everything you do.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
Help bring some moments of peace and comfort to a lonely family member.
—PledgePeace.org
Jesus has arrived; the Incarnation -- God becoming one of us -- has happened. Nothing any human being has ever accomplished comes close to this miracle. Nothing in human history will ever be the same now that God, the Word, the only Son, has become one of us. “And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14).
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Choose a visible sign to wear or keep close by, something which reminds you that Jesus is your Savior. Use it to keep you interactive with him in everything you do.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
Help bring some moments of peace and comfort to a lonely family member.
—PledgePeace.org
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
December 24, 2008
Of Shepherds and Angels
Jesus’ birth was attended by the highest and the lowest, by angels and shepherds. While the world slept unaware, our salvation came to us. God became a human being. All heaven knew, and the angels sang praises to God. But the only ones on earth who were aware that night were Jesus’ poor parents, shivering in a shelter for animals, and the lowly shepherds watching their sheep.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Through some word or action, minister to someone else, conscious that you are sharing the love of Jesus Christ within you.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
If you have access to the Internet, spread the message of tolerance electronically. Live it personally.
—PledgePeace.org
Jesus’ birth was attended by the highest and the lowest, by angels and shepherds. While the world slept unaware, our salvation came to us. God became a human being. All heaven knew, and the angels sang praises to God. But the only ones on earth who were aware that night were Jesus’ poor parents, shivering in a shelter for animals, and the lowly shepherds watching their sheep.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Through some word or action, minister to someone else, conscious that you are sharing the love of Jesus Christ within you.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
If you have access to the Internet, spread the message of tolerance electronically. Live it personally.
—PledgePeace.org
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
December 23,2008
John the Baptist’s Birth
The Church never speaks about Jesus’ birth without also mentioning his Precursor, John the Baptist, who prepared Israel for his coming. John’s birth was so miraculous that the whole village wanted to know, “What will this child become?” John is present even today, pointing to Jesus as our long-awaited Messiah, reminding us that Jesus is coming soon.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Welcome everyone who comes through the doors of your life today. Open the doors of your heart and home to everyone God sends.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace with family and friends. Pray for those who do not know the peace he brings.
—PledgePeace.org
The Church never speaks about Jesus’ birth without also mentioning his Precursor, John the Baptist, who prepared Israel for his coming. John’s birth was so miraculous that the whole village wanted to know, “What will this child become?” John is present even today, pointing to Jesus as our long-awaited Messiah, reminding us that Jesus is coming soon.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Welcome everyone who comes through the doors of your life today. Open the doors of your heart and home to everyone God sends.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace with family and friends. Pray for those who do not know the peace he brings.
—PledgePeace.org
Monday, December 22, 2008
Tired
I am so tired. I just cant seem to get all the things i normally get done done. How do people who work get all of these things done. Usually i am done with everything and this year i feel alittle over whelmed. I will be so glad when wed evening gets here and everything calms down. I finished all my cookies and candies and apples today. And i still need to clean the house. But tomorrow ihave to work so i guess i will do most of that on wed while i am cooking. Oh well it will be fun once everything gets going. Well i will stop whinning now and just move on.
December 22,2008
Mary’s Song of Praise
Mary’s Magnificat praises God, especially for his care for the humble and downtrodden. The sign of the Messiah’s coming is the restoration of justice on the earth: The poor and lowly are lifted up and the hungry are fed. God keeps his promises and shows mercy to all people. Read Mary’s song, and think about how it applies to your life.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Spend the daylight hours fasting: Eat simple meals with no snacks in between. Then watch for the first star of Christmas. When it appears, remove the Advent wreath, replace it with the Christmas candle and serve a feast of love.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Respond peacefully when someone accuses or misunderstands you.
—PledgePeace.org
Mary’s Magnificat praises God, especially for his care for the humble and downtrodden. The sign of the Messiah’s coming is the restoration of justice on the earth: The poor and lowly are lifted up and the hungry are fed. God keeps his promises and shows mercy to all people. Read Mary’s song, and think about how it applies to your life.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Spend the daylight hours fasting: Eat simple meals with no snacks in between. Then watch for the first star of Christmas. When it appears, remove the Advent wreath, replace it with the Christmas candle and serve a feast of love.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Respond peacefully when someone accuses or misunderstands you.
—PledgePeace.org
Sunday, December 21, 2008
December 21, 2008
'The Voice of My Beloved'
Such joy in today’s readings! The Bride of the Song of Songs praises the Bridegroom, her Beloved. In the Gospel, Mary’s arrival at Elizabeth’s home causes John to leap in Elizabeth’s womb, and both women praise God for His goodness. Have you ever been so overcome with joy, you could hardly contain yourself?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Go for a ride tonight and view all the colorful Christmas lights. See them as if you have never viewed such wonder before. Allow the lights to shine in your soul and give back to God any pain or hurt you harbor in your heart.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Put aside your hectic schedule. Spend 15 minutes in stillness and direct your thoughts to peace.
—PledgePeace.org
Such joy in today’s readings! The Bride of the Song of Songs praises the Bridegroom, her Beloved. In the Gospel, Mary’s arrival at Elizabeth’s home causes John to leap in Elizabeth’s womb, and both women praise God for His goodness. Have you ever been so overcome with joy, you could hardly contain yourself?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Go for a ride tonight and view all the colorful Christmas lights. See them as if you have never viewed such wonder before. Allow the lights to shine in your soul and give back to God any pain or hurt you harbor in your heart.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Put aside your hectic schedule. Spend 15 minutes in stillness and direct your thoughts to peace.
—PledgePeace.org
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Daughters
Today as i sat and watched my family inter act. I was able to see just how lucky i am. My family is healthy and we all enjoy each other and i could not ask for anything more then that. I find in day to day life that i forget to remember how thankful i am. I have been blessed with the love of a great man and two beautiful daughters. What more could a mom ask for. I would have to say that my greatest accomplishment are those beautiful little people that i created. Sometimes i look at them and think wow how can i have made those perfect little people. Its hard to believe that they where my little babies that depended on me for every little thing and now they are these grown women. Hopefully they will always in some way need me. Like i said i thank GOD everyday that he gave me these wonderful women that i call my GIRLS.
December 20,2008
'Ask For A Sign'
“The virgin will be with child,” King Ahaz is told 700 years before the angel, Gabriel, visits Mary and announces that she will be the virgin who will bear the Messiah. Again, we see God’s careful planning down through the centuries. What do you see happening today that is a sign of God’s love for his people?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Take a "me" break today. Remember that you are the beloved of God. Let the Spirit treat you to a break in the hectic preparations. Realize that you need to pamper yourself a little so that you don't forget how loved you really are.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Listen actively and openly to a viewpoint you disagree with.
—PledgePeace.org
“The virgin will be with child,” King Ahaz is told 700 years before the angel, Gabriel, visits Mary and announces that she will be the virgin who will bear the Messiah. Again, we see God’s careful planning down through the centuries. What do you see happening today that is a sign of God’s love for his people?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Take a "me" break today. Remember that you are the beloved of God. Let the Spirit treat you to a break in the hectic preparations. Realize that you need to pamper yourself a little so that you don't forget how loved you really are.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Listen actively and openly to a viewpoint you disagree with.
—PledgePeace.org
Friday, December 19, 2008
December 19, 2008
Samson and John the Baptist
The parallels between Samson’s and John the Baptist’s births are astonishing: Both mothers were infertile; both births were announced by angels; both were dedicated to God from the moment of conception. Samson would help deliver Israel from its enemies; John would prepare the way for the Messiah. Have you ever seen “coincidences” that were obvious interventions of God?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Read the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-52) as if Mary is sharing her thoughts and spirit with you. Keep a symbol of Mary's presence visible all day: a lighted blue candle, a rosary in your pocket or some other reminder.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Spend time with someone from a culture or country other than your own.
—PledgePeace.org
The parallels between Samson’s and John the Baptist’s births are astonishing: Both mothers were infertile; both births were announced by angels; both were dedicated to God from the moment of conception. Samson would help deliver Israel from its enemies; John would prepare the way for the Messiah. Have you ever seen “coincidences” that were obvious interventions of God?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Read the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-52) as if Mary is sharing her thoughts and spirit with you. Keep a symbol of Mary's presence visible all day: a lighted blue candle, a rosary in your pocket or some other reminder.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Spend time with someone from a culture or country other than your own.
—PledgePeace.org
Thursday, December 18, 2008
December 18, 2008
Joseph’s Doubts Dispelled
In today’s Gospel, Joseph is told in a dream that the baby Mary is carrying is the Messiah. His doubts and fears are dissolved in new-found faith. Have you ever been told something so incredible that you were unable to believe at first? How did you come to believe it?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Look around you at work, at home, in your social life. Ask what is not yet the way it should be when Christ returns. Make the appropriate changes.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
Organize or attend an ecumenical, interfaith prayer service.
—PledgePeace.org
In today’s Gospel, Joseph is told in a dream that the baby Mary is carrying is the Messiah. His doubts and fears are dissolved in new-found faith. Have you ever been told something so incredible that you were unable to believe at first? How did you come to believe it?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Look around you at work, at home, in your social life. Ask what is not yet the way it should be when Christ returns. Make the appropriate changes.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
Organize or attend an ecumenical, interfaith prayer service.
—PledgePeace.org
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
December 17, 2008
Jesus’ Family Tree
Jesus’ family tree may not seem interesting except to historians, but it is miraculous. Jesus’ ancestors included Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and King David. Jacob knew, almost 1800 years before, that the Messiah would descend from his family. Think today about God’s careful planning, over centuries, for Jesus’ arrival in our world.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Make a fully conscious, deliberate, personal act of faith in Jesus as the world's Savior and your Savior.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
In word and action, choose the weapons of love and forgiveness.
—PledgePeace.org
Jesus’ family tree may not seem interesting except to historians, but it is miraculous. Jesus’ ancestors included Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and King David. Jacob knew, almost 1800 years before, that the Messiah would descend from his family. Think today about God’s careful planning, over centuries, for Jesus’ arrival in our world.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Make a fully conscious, deliberate, personal act of faith in Jesus as the world's Savior and your Savior.
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
In word and action, choose the weapons of love and forgiveness.
—PledgePeace.org
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
December 16,2008
God Waits Patiently
Like the second son in today’s Gospel, we may be reluctant and even resentful about obedience at times. But God waits, knowing that we just need a little time. Is there anything you know you should be doing, but you have been putting it off? Maybe it’s time to say “yes” to God.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Listen to Christmas music today. Pray the words as you listen. Let the words melt into your spirit and stay with you throughout the day.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Think before making hurtful or sarcastic comments.
—PledgePeace.org
Like the second son in today’s Gospel, we may be reluctant and even resentful about obedience at times. But God waits, knowing that we just need a little time. Is there anything you know you should be doing, but you have been putting it off? Maybe it’s time to say “yes” to God.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Listen to Christmas music today. Pray the words as you listen. Let the words melt into your spirit and stay with you throughout the day.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Think before making hurtful or sarcastic comments.
—PledgePeace.org
Monday, December 15, 2008
December 15,2008
Looking Ahead (Back to Today)
Monday, December 15, 2008
Select a date to change this page’s Meditation, Activity and Peacemaking Idea through the season: the First Sunday of Advent through the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. December 2008
Nov Jan
S M T W T F S
30 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31 1 2 3
The Kingdom Will Triumph
In the Gospel, Jesus’ authority is questioned. Until its fulfillment at the end of time, the Kingdom of God will be challenged. Like Jesus, we will have times of trouble and opposition. How do you feel challenged to live your values in today’s world?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Read the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5—7), looking for what Jesus taught. Has any of this been so watered-down by the actions of Christians that we now take a lower ideal for granted?
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
Donate blood.
—PledgePeace.org
Monday, December 15, 2008
Select a date to change this page’s Meditation, Activity and Peacemaking Idea through the season: the First Sunday of Advent through the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. December 2008
Nov Jan
S M T W T F S
30 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31 1 2 3
The Kingdom Will Triumph
In the Gospel, Jesus’ authority is questioned. Until its fulfillment at the end of time, the Kingdom of God will be challenged. Like Jesus, we will have times of trouble and opposition. How do you feel challenged to live your values in today’s world?
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Read the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5—7), looking for what Jesus taught. Has any of this been so watered-down by the actions of Christians that we now take a lower ideal for granted?
—Living God's Word: Reflections on the Weekly Gospels, Year A
Peacemaking Idea
Donate blood.
—PledgePeace.org
Sunday, December 14, 2008
December 14,2008
Looking Ahead (Back to Today)
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Select a date to change this page’s Meditation, Activity and Peacemaking Idea through the season: the First Sunday of Advent through the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. December 2008
Nov Jan
S M T W T F S
30 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31 1 2 3
Messianic Age Is Here!
Today is “joy” Sunday; we light the pink candle in the Advent wreath; we sing songs of joy. This week, remember that Jesus has won the victory; we have nothing to fear.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Decorate your front door today. Let the world know that they are welcome in your house and that the birth of Christ is celebrated there.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Be kind to a co-worker you find difficult.
—PledgePeace.org
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Select a date to change this page’s Meditation, Activity and Peacemaking Idea through the season: the First Sunday of Advent through the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. December 2008
Nov Jan
S M T W T F S
30 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31 1 2 3
Messianic Age Is Here!
Today is “joy” Sunday; we light the pink candle in the Advent wreath; we sing songs of joy. This week, remember that Jesus has won the victory; we have nothing to fear.
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Decorate your front door today. Let the world know that they are welcome in your house and that the birth of Christ is celebrated there.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Be kind to a co-worker you find difficult.
—PledgePeace.org
Friday, December 12, 2008
Advent Calendar December 13,2008
Who Is Jesus’ Elijah?
John the Baptist was the “Elijah” who was to be the Messiah’s herald. We can fulfill the role of Elijah today by showing Jesus to those around us. We are the “salt” that makes people thirsty for Jesus. We show God’s light to those in darkness. Ask God to show you some concrete ways you can “be Elijah.”
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Go to a shopping mall today. Sit in the midst of the holiday rush and ask the Spirit to help you single out one overworked, overtired person to pray for. Your prayers may be the greatest gift the person receives this Christmas.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Reach out to someone experiencing grief and loss.
—PledgePeace.org
John the Baptist was the “Elijah” who was to be the Messiah’s herald. We can fulfill the role of Elijah today by showing Jesus to those around us. We are the “salt” that makes people thirsty for Jesus. We show God’s light to those in darkness. Ask God to show you some concrete ways you can “be Elijah.”
— Catholic Update: Rest Stops for a Rushed People
Activity
Go to a shopping mall today. Sit in the midst of the holiday rush and ask the Spirit to help you single out one overworked, overtired person to pray for. Your prayers may be the greatest gift the person receives this Christmas.
—Holy Bells and Wonderful Smells:
Year-Round Activities for Classrooms and Families
Peacemaking Idea
Reach out to someone experiencing grief and loss.
—PledgePeace.org
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
I Love Christmas
Its that time again. Christmas i can't wait. Its time for great food and the love of family and friends. I love the whole idea of christmas. I love the way my family gets so excited. I love that family comes together through all the madness of everyday life. I love that fact that my family is healthy and doing well. And i love the fact that Jesus loves me and i love him. Because that is what the season is all about. Its about giving and loving and celebrating that fact that our lord and savor was born. God Bless Us All.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Its beginning to look alot like christmas
Wow i can't believe christmas is here. So much to do and so little time. Cookies to make and dinners to plan. I am looking forward to the cookies. Molly is coming over so that we can make cake balls and cookies. I found a new technique i want to try and i can't wait. I am so excited about all the new things i am learning right now. Cake balls will be easy. I am gonna try and get some neat ideas together so that we can make more then one kind of cookie decoration. Woooohooo. I am almost done christmas shopping so i am excited about that. Tomorrow i think i will get up early after i go to the dr. and try and finish my shopping. I just have like 5 more things to get and i am officially done. Then i can sit back and watch the riots. Hahah.
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