If you want to excel in life, self motivation is essential. You must know how to motivate yourself. You must be able to keep your spirit high no matter how discouraging a situation is. That’s the only way to get the power you need to overcome difficulties. Those who are discouraged in difficult times are certain to lose even before the battle is over.
I can’t think of a more powerful source of motivation than a cause you care about. Such cause can inspire you to give your best even in the face of difficulties. It can make you do the seemingly impossible things.
While other causes could inspire you temporarily, a cause that matters to you can inspire you indefinitely. It’s a spring of motivation that will never dry. Whenever you think that you run out of motivation, you can always come to your cause to get a fresh dose of motivation.
Your cause is a powerful source of motivation but it’s still abstract in nature. You need to make it concrete in the form of a dream. Imagine how the world will be in the future. Imagine how people will live and work.
Having a dream is important because it’s difficult to be motivated if you don’t have anything to shoot for. Just think about people who play basketball. Will they be motivated to play if there is no basket to aim at? I don’t think so. They need a goal. You need a goal. That’s what your dream is for.
But just having a dream is insufficient. Your dream must be big enough to inspire you. It must be realistic but challenging. It must stretch your ability beyond your comfort zone.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Self motivation
Online learning
As technology progresses and the world becomes more reliant upon Internet functions, online learning has gained popularity and functionality.The flexibility of online learning is one of its greatest benefits. Most courses are specifically created in a manner that allows students to complete work at their own pace and convenience, whenever they have enough time to spare.
Aside from assignment due dates or the occasional online chat or lecture, there are typically few time-based requirements, making online learning one of the few options for students who work or have children. Since students can choose when they are working on their studies, they are more likely to devote their full attention to the task at hand and not be distracted or too tired to comprehend a lesson.
In addition to everyday obstacles, online learning provides a solution for individuals who may be facing political or financial obstacles that might otherwise make education impossible. That the Web is in fact world-wide means that e-learning is international and a truly egalitarian means of acquiring knowledge.
Flexible schedules let you take your classes at a set time, or when it’s convenient for you. Well, http://www.bliqm.com/ key to returning to school is having choices. So why not try the many benefits of learning online.
"Good teaching is good teaching, no matter how it's done."
Aside from assignment due dates or the occasional online chat or lecture, there are typically few time-based requirements, making online learning one of the few options for students who work or have children. Since students can choose when they are working on their studies, they are more likely to devote their full attention to the task at hand and not be distracted or too tired to comprehend a lesson.
In addition to everyday obstacles, online learning provides a solution for individuals who may be facing political or financial obstacles that might otherwise make education impossible. That the Web is in fact world-wide means that e-learning is international and a truly egalitarian means of acquiring knowledge.
Flexible schedules let you take your classes at a set time, or when it’s convenient for you. Well, http://www.bliqm.com/ key to returning to school is having choices. So why not try the many benefits of learning online.
"Good teaching is good teaching, no matter how it's done."
make yourself indispensable to others
The key to success is making yourself as useful as possible to others. You should make yourself so useful that you are indispensable to them. But how do you do that? How do you make yourself indispensable?
First of all we need to define what is meant by useful, since only by being useful can we become indispensable. Being useful means meeting people’s needs and desires. It is solving people’s problems. Consequently, there is actually just one rule to make yourself indispensable:
Of course, there are a lot of needs people can possibly have.In some circumstances, you may be most helpful in belonging, while in some other circumstances you may be most helpful in Learning. You should always be aware of where you can be most helpful.
1.Listen to your friends without interrupting nor being hurry.
2.Send them your warm greetings via e-cards.
3.Tell them how you miss them.
4.Send them special messages at their birthday
5.Comfort them in times of trouble.
6.Introduce them to your other friends to expand their networks.
7.Buy them gifts when you are traveling. Even small gifts matter.
worry is worthless
Babies are wonderful being who also have the right to have their own personal space. It seems that making a baby nursery can be quite a task to achieve. This is because there is baby nursery furniture that can make the baby’s nursery quite personal. It is always about planning ahead and knowing what needs doing.
Away from getting a bed and a changing unit one will also have to consider other nursery furniture sets. This can be a thing like a wardrobe. The wardrobe as a baby’s nursery furniture is essential in that it helps you keep the nursery tidy. As it is well known babies can be a bit more than just demanding on when they are fed, but also on how much they are changed.
Teaching yourself to keep things neat in the nursery will also save you hours and hours of unnecessary cleaning which would be hard to manage especially when you are tired. It is all about learning the best habits that will also keep the baby nursery furniture dust free so that your baby can avoid all the possible illness that could arise from growing up in such an environment.
Worry is worthless. Just style to accompany taste. It is understandable that individual taste often comes in when choosing baby nursery furniture. There is no crime in this as parents are people too with their own ways that are incorporated in their options of what the baby nursery should and will look like.
Away from getting a bed and a changing unit one will also have to consider other nursery furniture sets. This can be a thing like a wardrobe. The wardrobe as a baby’s nursery furniture is essential in that it helps you keep the nursery tidy. As it is well known babies can be a bit more than just demanding on when they are fed, but also on how much they are changed.
Teaching yourself to keep things neat in the nursery will also save you hours and hours of unnecessary cleaning which would be hard to manage especially when you are tired. It is all about learning the best habits that will also keep the baby nursery furniture dust free so that your baby can avoid all the possible illness that could arise from growing up in such an environment.
Worry is worthless. Just style to accompany taste. It is understandable that individual taste often comes in when choosing baby nursery furniture. There is no crime in this as parents are people too with their own ways that are incorporated in their options of what the baby nursery should and will look like.
Stay positive in negative situation
There are times when we must go through negative situations. Maybe people say something negative about us, or they show rejection or even resentment against us. In such situations, it may be difficult to stay positive. We may be inclined to react negatively to them. That won’t do us any good though; doing so will just make the situation worse. People may behave even more negatively to us. Our day would be filled with anger and disappointment. At the end, nobody wins.
Though it’s not easy, it’s important to stay positive in negative situations. Beat the negative situations by staying positive. Here are 15 tips on how to do it; pick the ones that work for you.
1.Never respond when you are not calm. If you are not sure that you are calm, don’t respond. Take time to calm yourself down first.
2.Take a deep breath as a first step to calm yourself down. 3.Speak in gentle tone to reduce the tension of the situation.
4.Realize that you can find opportunities in negative situations. Albert Einstein said: “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.”
5.Look at the content of what people say to you for something positive that you can act upon to improve yourself. Don’t just reject the whole messages.
6.For the rest of the messages which is negative, simply ignore it.
7.Maintain positive view of the people. Maybe you don’t like their messages or behavior, but that doesn’t mean that you can hate them personally.
8.Realize that having negative feelings will just hurt you, not them. So there is no reason for you to have any negative feeling.
9.If you make mistakes, be open to admit it.
10.If you make mistakes, remember this quote by George Bernard Shaw: “A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.”
11.If you can, listen to motivational audio program to feed positive thoughts into your mind.
12.Talk to a positive friend who can encourage you.
13.Remember your favorite quotes to give you inspiration and motivation. This is one reason why you should have quote of the day.
14.Look at the negative situations as your training sessions for real life. The higher you climb in life, the worse the negative situations would be, so you’d better be prepared for them.
15.Realize that you can’t please everyone. In fact, nobody can. Sometimes you need to just let some people go. Realizing this will relieve you from a lot of unnecessary burden so that you can focus on the people that you can positively interact with.
Though it’s not easy, it’s important to stay positive in negative situations. Beat the negative situations by staying positive. Here are 15 tips on how to do it; pick the ones that work for you.
1.Never respond when you are not calm. If you are not sure that you are calm, don’t respond. Take time to calm yourself down first.
2.Take a deep breath as a first step to calm yourself down. 3.Speak in gentle tone to reduce the tension of the situation.
4.Realize that you can find opportunities in negative situations. Albert Einstein said: “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.”
5.Look at the content of what people say to you for something positive that you can act upon to improve yourself. Don’t just reject the whole messages.
6.For the rest of the messages which is negative, simply ignore it.
7.Maintain positive view of the people. Maybe you don’t like their messages or behavior, but that doesn’t mean that you can hate them personally.
8.Realize that having negative feelings will just hurt you, not them. So there is no reason for you to have any negative feeling.
9.If you make mistakes, be open to admit it.
10.If you make mistakes, remember this quote by George Bernard Shaw: “A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.”
11.If you can, listen to motivational audio program to feed positive thoughts into your mind.
12.Talk to a positive friend who can encourage you.
13.Remember your favorite quotes to give you inspiration and motivation. This is one reason why you should have quote of the day.
14.Look at the negative situations as your training sessions for real life. The higher you climb in life, the worse the negative situations would be, so you’d better be prepared for them.
15.Realize that you can’t please everyone. In fact, nobody can. Sometimes you need to just let some people go. Realizing this will relieve you from a lot of unnecessary burden so that you can focus on the people that you can positively interact with.
good hunting
I still run into people who think that sports hunting is antienvironmental. Consequently, I want to restate that when the overall picture of wildlife and natural environments is taken collectively from the standpoint of their health and well being, hunters are among the greenest people in the nation today.
But why do I say hunting is good for the environment? First, let me define "good" as situations or activities that maintain wildlife at current levels. In that case, hunting is good for the environment because the hunting community ensures that wildlife populations of game species are sustainable from one generation to the next. This requires that a diversity of natural habitats be kept intact, unpolluted, and undisturbed. Hunters support all these efforts.
Keeping our wild habitats as undamaged, clean, and natural as possible is a key aspect of having suitable places to hunt. But hunters are not the only ones seeking such habitats. Ecologists depend on them for research. Hikers, bird-watchers, and wildflower viewers all prefer habitats that are uncontaminated and full of wild things.
It is said that all hunters have rifle, usually they have found uses M4 rifle accessories.A rifle is an "offensive" weapon. It was made to kill at long distances.
In a purely defensive situation you must assume that your life or that of your loved ones is in emminent danger and that means close.
A rifle is a terrible defensive weapon for personal protection and if you should have to use it may very well get you in jail.
Sweet taste of success
Everybody wants to be successful. In fact, everybody works with a hope that they will be successful someday. Is it good to be successful ? I believe everybody would say yes. But, is it always good to be successful ? Or there are times when success is actually not good ?
What is good success ? In my opinion, good success is the one which comes from doing the principles of truth. And principles of truth are those which go in accordance with our conscience.
Too many times people try to be successful without obeying their conscience. They may try to take shortcuts to success, or they may sacrifice their family, friends or other people for the sake of success. And indeed, they can be successful. People around them would say that they are successful. Unfortunately, that is just bad success, and bad success will eventually do them more harm than good.
What is good success ? In my opinion, good success is the one which comes from doing the principles of truth. And principles of truth are those which go in accordance with our conscience.
Too many times people try to be successful without obeying their conscience. They may try to take shortcuts to success, or they may sacrifice their family, friends or other people for the sake of success. And indeed, they can be successful. People around them would say that they are successful. Unfortunately, that is just bad success, and bad success will eventually do them more harm than good.
preparing for a wedding
Preparing for your big day should be memorable and fun. The period from engagement to wedding day, is the beginning of your life as a couple. Both of you, bride and groom have decisions to make and tasks to complete so that yours, will be the wedding day you always dreamed about.The wedding day is regarded by brides and grooms as the most important day of their lives.
As we all know a wedding car is one of the most important aspects of a wedding so consider carefully what will make a special, one-of-a-kind wedding event. Searching for a wedding car can sometimes be a frustrating experience.
A great way to choose what type of wedding car you would like, is to first decide on what style wedding you will have. If your wedding is a formal black-tie event, then arriving and leaving in your every day car would not complement this style. This is a perfect example of why you should rent a unique wedding car. A DC wedding limo fit in perfectly with the traditional wedding with luxury and style.
Remember to have fun with your wedding plans, as this is going to be the most memorable day of your life. The perfect wedding car will complement any type of wedding.
Tuesday's Gospel: It is not the will of my Father in heaven that one of these should perish
Scripture: Matthew 18:12-14
12 What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go in search of the one that went astray?
13 And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. 14 So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11
1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. 2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the LORD's hand double for all her sins.
3 A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5 And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken."
6 A voice says, "Cry!" And I said, "What shall I cry?" All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field. 7 The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the LORD blows upon it; surely the people is grass. 8 The grass withers, the flower fades; but the word of our God will stand for ever.
9 Get you up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good tidings; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings, lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah, "Behold your God!" 10 Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.
11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd, he will gather the lambs in his arms, he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.
Do you know what it's like to lose your bearings and to be hopelessly adrift in a sea of uncertainty? To be alone, lost, and disoriented without a sense of direction is one of the worst fears we can encounter. What we would give to have a guide who would show us the way to safety and security, the way to home and family.
Scripture comforts us with the assurance that God will not rest until we find our way home to him. The scriptures use the image of a shepherd who cares for his sheep to describe what God is like. God promised that he would personally shepherd his people and lead them to safety (Isaiah 40:11).
That is why God sent his only begotten son as the Messiah King who would not only restore peace and righteousness to the land, but who would also shepherd and care for his people with love and compassion. Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep (John 10:11).
What can we learn from the lesson of Jesus' parable about a lost sheep? This parable gives us a glimpse of the heart of a true shepherd, and the joy of a community reunited with its lost members. Shepherds not only had to watch over their sheep by day and by night; they also had to protect them from wolves and lions who preyed upon them, and from dangerous terrain and storms.
Shepherds often had large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or thousands. It was common to inspect and count the sheep at the end of the day. You can imagine the surprise and grief of the shepherd who discovers that one of his sheep is missing!
Does he wait until the next day to go looking for it? Or does he ask a neighboring shepherd if he might has seen the stray sheep?
No, he goes immediately in search of this lost sheep. Delay for even one night could mean disaster leading to death. Sheep by nature are very social creatures.
An isolated sheep can quickly become bewildered, disoriented, and even neurotic. Easy prey for wolves and lions!
The shepherd's grief and anxiety is turned to joy when he finds the lost sheep and restores it to the fold. The shepherd searches until what he has lost is found. His persistence pays off. What was new in Jesus' teaching was the insistence that sinners must be sought out time and time again.
How easy to forget and be distracted with other matters while the lost become prey for devouring wolves of the soul. The Apostle Peter reminds us that the "devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking some one to devour" (1 Peter 5:8).
God does not rejoice in the loss of anyone, but desires that we be saved and restored to friendship with him.
That is why the whole community of heaven rejoices when one sinner is found and restored to fellowship with God.
God is on a rescue mission today to save us from the destructive forces of sin and evil. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, watches over every step we take.
Do you listen to his voice and heed his wise counsel?
Do you follow the path he has set for you - a path that leads to life rather than death?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
time to give love
Myself, myself, and myself....All I am thinking is all about myself. Aren't we tired of thinking all about ourselves?
Can't we not do something for others? We always look towards aiming to get either for our self or with our self or to our self.
How very different from Jesus' model and message!
No "philosophy" to turn our eyes inward, He offers rather a fresh and much-needed invitation to our "me first" generation.
There is a better way. Jesus says, "be a servant, give to others!" Now that's a philosophy that anybody can understand.
It is high time to stop pampering ourselves of these two wrong tendencies, SELFISHNESS and CONCEIT, to control us!!!!
Let nothing either of them suggests win a hearing. Replace them with "humility in mind".
How?
By regarding others as more important than ourself, and by looking for ways to support, encourage, build up, and stimulate with others.
Such predicament requires an attitude that would rather require us to focus on the famous short line: give than receive.
It is time to give --for others.. This Christmas, try to reflect on this and while doing it, try to think of our loved ones, our friends, our neighbors... Try to give them your love this Christmas!
a time to remember
The calendar year is coming to a close yet it seems that the year passed without much getting noticed. It seems juts like yesterday when the first month of the year has started. We tend to forget the clicking of time and the passing of it seemed so unnoticeable.
We need to have a distinct tool to remind us always of the clicking of time. We need some well-decorated clocks in our homes to be able to see the passing of time and be aware of the next to come.
We need some kind of a clock material that will remind us that it is time to move and get things over. And what could be the most gratifying look a clock should present in our scrutinizing eyes than those howard miller clocks? Yes, indeed, these clocks have been so tested to be so effective not only in terms of reminding us that it is time to do this and do that in our day-to-day living but also, these clocks, as they were widely known and popularly well-sought, are well known clocks just like interior design clocks that most people have acquired in their homes and offices.
It is therefore highly recommended to take a look once more, as we are about to end the calendar cycle of the year, to really take advantage of, and get hold of any kind of wall clocks from a very reliable clock provider which is just a click away.
Just before the calendar year ends with a big mark, let's be reminded not to forget to get hold of a home decor clock that will surely remind us that it is time to move and get on top of things inside our house and as well as our day-to-day goings in our works and offices as we are about to start with a new and a promising year!
Monday's Gospel: the easier to say
Scripture: Luke 5:17-26
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was with him to heal.
18 And behold, men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they sought to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith he said, "Man, your sins are forgiven you."
21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, "Who is this that speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God only?" 22 When Jesus perceived their questionings, he answered them, "Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Rise and walk?'
24 But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins" --he said to the man who was paralyzed-- "I say to you, rise, take up your bed and go home." 25 And immediately he rose before them, and took up that on which he lay, and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, "We have seen strange things today."
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10
1 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus 2 it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon.
They shall see the glory of the LORD, the majesty of our God. 3 Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. 4 Say to those who are of a fearful heart, "Be strong, fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you." 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; 6 then shall the lame man leap like a hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing for joy.
For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; 7 the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp, the grass shall become reeds and rushes.
8 And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not pass over it, and fools shall not err therein. 9 No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there.
10 And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was with him to heal.
18 And behold, men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they sought to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith he said, "Man, your sins are forgiven you."
21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, "Who is this that speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God only?" 22 When Jesus perceived their questionings, he answered them, "Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Rise and walk?'
24 But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins" --he said to the man who was paralyzed-- "I say to you, rise, take up your bed and go home." 25 And immediately he rose before them, and took up that on which he lay, and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, "We have seen strange things today."
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10
1 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus 2 it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon.
They shall see the glory of the LORD, the majesty of our God. 3 Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. 4 Say to those who are of a fearful heart, "Be strong, fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you." 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; 6 then shall the lame man leap like a hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing for joy.
For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; 7 the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp, the grass shall become reeds and rushes.
8 And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not pass over it, and fools shall not err therein. 9 No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there.
10 And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Is there anything in your life that keeps you from receiving the blessings of God's kingdom? The prophets fortold that when the Messiah came to usher in God's kingdom the blind would see, the deaf hear, and the lame walk (Isaiah 35:5-6).
Jesus not only brought physical healing, but healing of mind, heart, and soul as well. Jesus came to bring us the abundant life of God's kingdom (John 10:10). But that new life and transformation can be stifled by unbelief, indifference, and sinful pride.
Sin cripples us far more than any physical ailment can. Sin is the work of the kingdom of darkness and it holds us in eternal bondage. There is only one solution and that is the healing, cleansing power of Jesus' forgiveness.
Jesus' treatment of sinners upset the religious teachers of the day. When a cripple was brought to Jesus because of the faith of his friends, Jesus did the unthinkable. He first forgave the man his sins. The scribes regarded this as blasphemy because they understood that only God had authority to forgive sins and to unbind a man or woman from their burden of guilt.
Jesus claimed an authority which only God could rightfully give. Jesus not only proved that his authority came from God, he showed the great power of God's redeeming love and mercy by healing the cripple of his physical ailment.
This man had been crippled not only physically, but spiritually as well. Jesus freed him from his burden of guilt and restored his body as well.
The Lord is ever ready to bring us healing of body, mind, and soul.
His grace brings us freedom from the power of sin and from bondage to harmful desires and addictions.
Do you allow anything to keep you from Jesus' healing power?
Jesus not only brought physical healing, but healing of mind, heart, and soul as well. Jesus came to bring us the abundant life of God's kingdom (John 10:10). But that new life and transformation can be stifled by unbelief, indifference, and sinful pride.
Sin cripples us far more than any physical ailment can. Sin is the work of the kingdom of darkness and it holds us in eternal bondage. There is only one solution and that is the healing, cleansing power of Jesus' forgiveness.
Jesus' treatment of sinners upset the religious teachers of the day. When a cripple was brought to Jesus because of the faith of his friends, Jesus did the unthinkable. He first forgave the man his sins. The scribes regarded this as blasphemy because they understood that only God had authority to forgive sins and to unbind a man or woman from their burden of guilt.
Jesus claimed an authority which only God could rightfully give. Jesus not only proved that his authority came from God, he showed the great power of God's redeeming love and mercy by healing the cripple of his physical ailment.
This man had been crippled not only physically, but spiritually as well. Jesus freed him from his burden of guilt and restored his body as well.
The Lord is ever ready to bring us healing of body, mind, and soul.
His grace brings us freedom from the power of sin and from bondage to harmful desires and addictions.
Do you allow anything to keep you from Jesus' healing power?
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Sunday's Gospel: The Word of God
Gospel Reading: Luke 3:1-6
1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiber'i-us Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Iturae'a and Trachoni'tis, and Lysa'ni-as tetrarch of Abile'ne, 2 in the high-priesthood of Annas and Ca'iaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechari'ah in the wilderness; 3 and he went into all the region about the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; 6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God."
Old Testament Reading: Baruch 5:1-9 (Deutero-canonical)
1 Take off the garment of your sorrow and affliction, O Jerusalem, and put on forever the beauty of the glory from God. 2 Put on the robe of the righteousness that comes from God; put on your head the diadem of the glory of the Everlasting; 3 for God will show your splendor everywhere under heaven.
4 For God will give you evermore the name, "Righteous Peace, Godly Glory." 5 Arise, O Jerusalem, stand upon the height; look toward the east, and see your children gathered from west and east at the word of the Holy One, rejoicing that God has remembered them. 6 For they went out from you on foot, led away by their enemies; but God will bring them back to you, carried in glory, as on a royal throne.
7 For God has ordered that every high mountain and the everlasting hills be made low and the valleys filled up, to make level ground, so that Israel may walk safely in the glory of God. 8 The woods and every fragrant tree have shaded Israel at God's command. 9 For God will lead Israel with joy, in the light of his glory, with the mercy and righteousness that come from him.
1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiber'i-us Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Iturae'a and Trachoni'tis, and Lysa'ni-as tetrarch of Abile'ne, 2 in the high-priesthood of Annas and Ca'iaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechari'ah in the wilderness; 3 and he went into all the region about the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; 6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God."
Old Testament Reading: Baruch 5:1-9 (Deutero-canonical)
1 Take off the garment of your sorrow and affliction, O Jerusalem, and put on forever the beauty of the glory from God. 2 Put on the robe of the righteousness that comes from God; put on your head the diadem of the glory of the Everlasting; 3 for God will show your splendor everywhere under heaven.
4 For God will give you evermore the name, "Righteous Peace, Godly Glory." 5 Arise, O Jerusalem, stand upon the height; look toward the east, and see your children gathered from west and east at the word of the Holy One, rejoicing that God has remembered them. 6 For they went out from you on foot, led away by their enemies; but God will bring them back to you, carried in glory, as on a royal throne.
7 For God has ordered that every high mountain and the everlasting hills be made low and the valleys filled up, to make level ground, so that Israel may walk safely in the glory of God. 8 The woods and every fragrant tree have shaded Israel at God's command. 9 For God will lead Israel with joy, in the light of his glory, with the mercy and righteousness that come from him.
Who is John the Baptist and what is the significance of his message for our lives? In dramatic fashion Luke tells us when John came on the world scene. The world's rulers paled in reference to this son of a priest whose task was to make the way for the King who is above all other kings. John stood at a pivotal juncture in the history of God's dealing with his people.
He bridged the Old and New Testaments. John was a prophet, a spokesman for God. "The word of God came to John in the wilderness." John was pre-eminently the servant of the Word, the Word of God who became flesh for our sake and for our salvation. Why was he in the wilderness? John was called from an early age to devote himself to prayer and to the word of God.
God taught him in the solitude of the desert and prepared him for a prophetic ministry to turn the hearts of his people to receive their long-awaited Messiah. He is the last of the Old Testament prophets who point the way to the coming of the Messiah. He is the first of the new Testament witnesses and martyrs who suffered on account of of his witness to Christ.
When a king toured his kingdom, he sent his courier ahead to prepare the way. John is the courier of the Messianic King who comes to usher in the kingdom or reign of God. Isaiah had long ago prophesied the role of the Forerunner of the Messiah.
John undoubtedly took this word to heart as he searched the scriptures and reflected on the word of the Lord in the wilderness. How does one prepare for the coming of the King and his heavenly kingdom? By conversion – turning our heart and mind from sin and rebellion, indifference and skepticism, to trust and obedience to God's word.
Luke's gospel emphasizes the universal call of the gospel to all peoples without distinction. He quotes from the prophet Isaiah that "all flesh shall see the salvation of God." John stood at the door of a new era of grace and salvation.
He saw from a distance what Jesus the Messiah would accomplish through his death and resurrection – pardon for our sins and eternal life for all who would believe in his name.
Are you hungry for the Word of God and do you allow God's word to shape and form the way you think and live?
He bridged the Old and New Testaments. John was a prophet, a spokesman for God. "The word of God came to John in the wilderness." John was pre-eminently the servant of the Word, the Word of God who became flesh for our sake and for our salvation. Why was he in the wilderness? John was called from an early age to devote himself to prayer and to the word of God.
God taught him in the solitude of the desert and prepared him for a prophetic ministry to turn the hearts of his people to receive their long-awaited Messiah. He is the last of the Old Testament prophets who point the way to the coming of the Messiah. He is the first of the new Testament witnesses and martyrs who suffered on account of of his witness to Christ.
When a king toured his kingdom, he sent his courier ahead to prepare the way. John is the courier of the Messianic King who comes to usher in the kingdom or reign of God. Isaiah had long ago prophesied the role of the Forerunner of the Messiah.
John undoubtedly took this word to heart as he searched the scriptures and reflected on the word of the Lord in the wilderness. How does one prepare for the coming of the King and his heavenly kingdom? By conversion – turning our heart and mind from sin and rebellion, indifference and skepticism, to trust and obedience to God's word.
Luke's gospel emphasizes the universal call of the gospel to all peoples without distinction. He quotes from the prophet Isaiah that "all flesh shall see the salvation of God." John stood at the door of a new era of grace and salvation.
He saw from a distance what Jesus the Messiah would accomplish through his death and resurrection – pardon for our sins and eternal life for all who would believe in his name.
Are you hungry for the Word of God and do you allow God's word to shape and form the way you think and live?
He remembers
Do you know what God's fresh, new morning message is to us? Whether the sun is shining brightly or whether it's pouring down rain? Whether the morning is bright or whether it's gray and overcast? His promise is the dawn itself. His promise is a an eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ.Every morning the Lord comes through with His encouraging message, "We're still on speaking terms, you know! I'm here. I haven't moved. Lets go together today."
Trust God to remember you. He won't forget your name. He won't forget your circumstances, He certainly won't forget your prayers. Trust Him, He remembers you.
Friday, December 4, 2009
holiday getaway
The great Holidays is just around the corner and the whole Christian world is waiting for such wonderful days where they can be off from their usual routine and day-to-day affairs at home, in school, in the office and in their daily lives. This season is the MOST AWAITED season for holiday trips to, say, Paris and book for reservations at hotel florence where they can spend some time with their loved ones while scoring the heights of the wonders of Paris.
I remember the story of a friend, who took a week-off from his nerve wrecking job from his office, and just to really get away for a little while from the tensions and pressures that the nature of his work was bombarding him, he booked himself and his wife at hotel paris metro bastille and on the basis of his stories, the experience they gathered was just fantastic that the couple promised their children to get the same experience this coming Christmas holidays!
Indeed, when the going gets tough, all we can do is to really get rid of the pressures that we are encountering and give ourselves a respite from the repetitive treatments that life has been giving us. And to be able to just get the feel of the well-sought peace and tranquility, we would certainly consider taking some time off from our daily routine and be a Paris tourist for some days or a week.
There is one site where most Paris tourists would visit to make things happen for their holiday getaway. It is this site that offers an online hotel reservations in Rome with a bed and breakfast experience. Mechanics will be just that easy as there is a customer care service attendants ready to give assistance throughout the reservation process. What makes it superb is that they have a special agency that that guarantees credit-card confidentiality and there is no anxiety and worry that scams or whatnot may be committed in the process of reservations.
FreeReservation is always ready to assist any tourist from anywhere in their much awaited Paris holiday trips. Their site offers free estimates giving anyone the chance to benefit from last-minute or red-eye deals on hotels in Rome. Making online reservation is just as easy as A-B-C because their customer care service personnel will provide all the information necessary to confirm the booking as their booking system is very much well secure when it comes to customer' credit card information.
Saturday's Gospel: The kingdom of heaven is at hand
Scripture: Matthew 9:35-10:1,6-8
35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and
every infirmity.
36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
10:1 And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. 6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
7 And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 30:19-21,23-26
19 Yea, O people in Zion who dwell at Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when he hears it, he will answer you. 20 And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself any more, but your eyes shall see your Teacher.
21 And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. 22 Then you will defile your silver-covered graven images and your gold-plated molten images. You will scatter them as unclean things; you will say to them, "Begone!"
23 And he will give rain for the seed with which you sow the ground, and grain, the produce of the ground, which will be rich and plenteous. In that day your cattle will graze in large pastures; 24 and the oxen and the asses that till the ground will eat salted provender, which has been winnowed with shovel and fork.
25 And upon every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be brooks running with water, in the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall.
26 Moreover the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day when the LORD binds up the hurt of his people, and heals the wounds inflicted by his blow.
35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and
every infirmity.
36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
10:1 And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. 6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
7 And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 30:19-21,23-26
19 Yea, O people in Zion who dwell at Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when he hears it, he will answer you. 20 And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself any more, but your eyes shall see your Teacher.
21 And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. 22 Then you will defile your silver-covered graven images and your gold-plated molten images. You will scatter them as unclean things; you will say to them, "Begone!"
23 And he will give rain for the seed with which you sow the ground, and grain, the produce of the ground, which will be rich and plenteous. In that day your cattle will graze in large pastures; 24 and the oxen and the asses that till the ground will eat salted provender, which has been winnowed with shovel and fork.
25 And upon every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be brooks running with water, in the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall.
26 Moreover the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day when the LORD binds up the hurt of his people, and heals the wounds inflicted by his blow.
Who doesn't want a life of good health, peace, and well-being? Isaiah foretold that God's kingdom would overcome sorrow and adversity and bring true peace and prosperity to God's people. Jesus understood his mission to bring the kingdom in all its fullness to us.
The core of the gospel message is quite simple: the kingdom or reign of God is imminent! What is the kingdom of God? It's the power of God at work in that society of men and women who trust in God and who honor him as their King and Lord.
In the Lord's prayer we dare to ask God to reign fully in our lives and in our world: "May your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 5:10 ). Jesus' preaching of God's kingdom was accompanied by signs and wonders.
People were healed not only spiritually, but physically as well. Do you believe in the power of God's kingdom for your life? Let his word transform your mind and heart that he may reign supreme in every area of your life.
Jesus commissioned his disciples to carry on the works which he did – to speak God's word and to bring his healing power to the weary and oppressed. Jesus said to his disciples: Freely you have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8).
What they had received from Jesus (all free of charge) they must now pass on to others without expecting any kind of payment or reward. They must show by their attitude that their first interest is God, not material gain. Jesus' words are just as relevant today.
The kingdom of heaven is available to those who are ready to receive it. We cannot buy heaven; but if we accept the love and mercy of Jesus we already possess heaven in our hearts!
The Lord brings his kingdom or heavenly reign to those who receive him with faith and obedience.
When the Lord returns in his glory he will fully restore his kingdom of everlasting peace and justice.
Do you pray and watch with confident hope for God's kingdom to come in all its fullness?
The core of the gospel message is quite simple: the kingdom or reign of God is imminent! What is the kingdom of God? It's the power of God at work in that society of men and women who trust in God and who honor him as their King and Lord.
In the Lord's prayer we dare to ask God to reign fully in our lives and in our world: "May your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 5:10 ). Jesus' preaching of God's kingdom was accompanied by signs and wonders.
People were healed not only spiritually, but physically as well. Do you believe in the power of God's kingdom for your life? Let his word transform your mind and heart that he may reign supreme in every area of your life.
Jesus commissioned his disciples to carry on the works which he did – to speak God's word and to bring his healing power to the weary and oppressed. Jesus said to his disciples: Freely you have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8).
What they had received from Jesus (all free of charge) they must now pass on to others without expecting any kind of payment or reward. They must show by their attitude that their first interest is God, not material gain. Jesus' words are just as relevant today.
The kingdom of heaven is available to those who are ready to receive it. We cannot buy heaven; but if we accept the love and mercy of Jesus we already possess heaven in our hearts!
The Lord brings his kingdom or heavenly reign to those who receive him with faith and obedience.
When the Lord returns in his glory he will fully restore his kingdom of everlasting peace and justice.
Do you pray and watch with confident hope for God's kingdom to come in all its fullness?
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Friday's Gospel: be it done to you
Scripture: Matthew 9:27-31
27 And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, "Have mercy on us, Son of David." 28 When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?"
They said to him, "Yes, Lord." 29 Then he touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith be it done to you."
30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly charged them, "See that no one knows it." 31 But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24
17 Is it not yet a very little while until Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be regarded as a forest? 18 In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see.
19 The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. 20 For the ruthless shall come to nought and the scoffer cease, and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off, 21 who by a word make a man out to be an offender, and lay a snare for him who reproves in the gate, and with an empty plea turn aside him who is in the right.
22 Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: "Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale.
23 For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. 24 And those who err in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction."
27 And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, "Have mercy on us, Son of David." 28 When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?"
They said to him, "Yes, Lord." 29 Then he touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith be it done to you."
30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly charged them, "See that no one knows it." 31 But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24
17 Is it not yet a very little while until Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be regarded as a forest? 18 In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see.
19 The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. 20 For the ruthless shall come to nought and the scoffer cease, and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off, 21 who by a word make a man out to be an offender, and lay a snare for him who reproves in the gate, and with an empty plea turn aside him who is in the right.
22 Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: "Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale.
23 For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. 24 And those who err in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction."
Are there any blind-spots in your life that keep you from recognizing God's power and mercy? When two blind men heard that Jesus was passing their way, they followed him and begged for his mercy. The word mercy literally means "sorrowful at heart".
But mercy is something more than compassion, or heartfelt sorrow at another's misfortune. Compassion empathizes with the sufferer. But mercy goes further; it removes suffering.
A merciful person shares in another's misfortune and suffering as if it were their own. When two blind men approached Jesus, he questioned their earnestness. "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" Jesus put them to the test, not to rebuff them, but to strengthen their faith and trust in God's mercy.
He touched their eyes, both to identify with their affliction and to awaken faith in them. Their faith grew as they responded to his word with confident hope. Jesus restored their sight – both physically and spiritually to the reality of God's kingdom.
Faith opens the way for us to see the power of God’s kingdom and to experience his healing presence in our lives.
In Jesus we see the fulness of God's mercy and the power of his kingdom – power to save from death and destruction, to forgive sins and lift the burden of guilt, and to heal infirmities and release the oppressed.
Jesus never refused to bring God's mercy to those who earnestly sought it. How can we seek and obtain God's mercy? God gives mercy to the lowly in heart – to those who recognize their need for God and for his forgiveness and healing power.
God wants to change and transform our lives to set us free to live as his sons and daughters and citizens of his kingdom. Faith is key to this transformation. How can we grow in faith?
Faith is a gift freely given by God to help us know God personally, to understand his truth, and to live in the power of his love.
For faith to be effective it must be linked with trust and obedience – an active submission to God and a willingness to do whatever he commands.
The Lord Jesus wants us to live in the confident expectation that he will fulfill his promises to us and bring us into the fulness of his kingdom – a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).
Do you know the peace and joy of God's kingdom?
"Lord Jesus, help me to draw near to you with faith and trust in your saving power and mercy.
Free me from doubt and unbelief that I may approach you confidently and pray boldly with expectant faith.
Let your kingdom come and may your will be done in me."
But mercy is something more than compassion, or heartfelt sorrow at another's misfortune. Compassion empathizes with the sufferer. But mercy goes further; it removes suffering.
A merciful person shares in another's misfortune and suffering as if it were their own. When two blind men approached Jesus, he questioned their earnestness. "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" Jesus put them to the test, not to rebuff them, but to strengthen their faith and trust in God's mercy.
He touched their eyes, both to identify with their affliction and to awaken faith in them. Their faith grew as they responded to his word with confident hope. Jesus restored their sight – both physically and spiritually to the reality of God's kingdom.
Faith opens the way for us to see the power of God’s kingdom and to experience his healing presence in our lives.
In Jesus we see the fulness of God's mercy and the power of his kingdom – power to save from death and destruction, to forgive sins and lift the burden of guilt, and to heal infirmities and release the oppressed.
Jesus never refused to bring God's mercy to those who earnestly sought it. How can we seek and obtain God's mercy? God gives mercy to the lowly in heart – to those who recognize their need for God and for his forgiveness and healing power.
God wants to change and transform our lives to set us free to live as his sons and daughters and citizens of his kingdom. Faith is key to this transformation. How can we grow in faith?
Faith is a gift freely given by God to help us know God personally, to understand his truth, and to live in the power of his love.
For faith to be effective it must be linked with trust and obedience – an active submission to God and a willingness to do whatever he commands.
The Lord Jesus wants us to live in the confident expectation that he will fulfill his promises to us and bring us into the fulness of his kingdom – a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).
Do you know the peace and joy of God's kingdom?
"Lord Jesus, help me to draw near to you with faith and trust in your saving power and mercy.
Free me from doubt and unbelief that I may approach you confidently and pray boldly with expectant faith.
Let your kingdom come and may your will be done in me."
Decorating on a budget
I always wanted to improve the look, style and function of my kitchen though I think the project is just too complicated or expensive. But I do believe in the saying that "If home is where the heart is, then the kitchen is a home's soul." That is why, I decided to pursue my plan to renovate my kitchen for my own comfort.
Renovating kitchen will surely add ease to my lifestyle and value to my home. So by then, I set my priority to have undermount sink in my kitchen. Well, I heard so much about this from my cousin who recently have his kitchen renovated. He told me about Mr. Direct wherein he purchased his granite sink. According to him , their granite sinks are also coated in bacteria killing silver ions which kill 99% of bacteria on contact. It is also scratch resistant, stain proof, and sound dampening.
When decorating on a budget, of course it's important to be careful with my purchases. I definitely turn to Mr Direct. The reason: Their basic undermount stainless steel sink line features some of the most affordable prices on the market. Not to mention that their undermount granite sink series made of 100% environmentally friendly materials.
Renovating kitchen will surely add ease to my lifestyle and value to my home. So by then, I set my priority to have undermount sink in my kitchen. Well, I heard so much about this from my cousin who recently have his kitchen renovated. He told me about Mr. Direct wherein he purchased his granite sink. According to him , their granite sinks are also coated in bacteria killing silver ions which kill 99% of bacteria on contact. It is also scratch resistant, stain proof, and sound dampening.
When decorating on a budget, of course it's important to be careful with my purchases. I definitely turn to Mr Direct. The reason: Their basic undermount stainless steel sink line features some of the most affordable prices on the market. Not to mention that their undermount granite sink series made of 100% environmentally friendly materials.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
what people want
The ad campaigns that come out of every avenue promise much more than they can deliver. Their titillating messages fall into four categories: fortune and fame, power and pleasure.
But what's missing in all this? Stop and ask yourself that question. Isn't something very significant absent here?
There's not even a hint of God's will or what pleases Him in the hard-core pursuit of success.
Note also that nothing in that horizontal list guarantees satisfaction or brings relief deep within the heart.
And in final analysis, what most people really want in life is = ...contentment, fulfillment, satisfaction and PEACE.
when gambling makes sense...
I don't want to be cynical nor skeptical when it comes to entertaining thoughts or ideas that pertain to online gambling like casino online but I guess and I must tell you that on the basis of the current society's speculative understanding as well as its practical intelligibility of the game itself, no one can really contest on it. It should remain to be arbitrary and open for people's deliberation and choice.
I am not talking on behalf of any form of community or group nor putting a stand on a particular form of ideology but rather just disclosing the general consensus on the basis of the present condition and reality of the current society. And to further make myself clarified, anyone can freely review this.
So, as far as gaming is concerned, anybody's wisdom should tell us that for as long as its rationale is for a much nobler purpose aimed at going above the surface of the harsh circumstances of life, then it may be deemed rightful and purposeful.
So, who are we to judge those who are inclined in their belief that gaming online is the best way for them to make both ends meet? No one I supposed so.
For as long as they believe in the power of God to grant them the luck and inspire them providentially to do their best in dealing with it, then I must say, go on with it, because we are not in the best position to judge people who are into such means of making things on top amidst the stark realities of life brought about by the harsh economic condition of the present culture and society.
In this society's dog-eats-dog competition, one should be smart enough to redeem life from its impediment as a result of economic pressure. So, when lady luck knocks on one's door, go and grab it for luck comes every time it is sought. So, with the best of luck, I say: go online and try it!
Thursday's Gospel: Who shall enter the kingdom of Heaven?
Scripture: Matthew 7:21,24-27
21 "Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 24 "Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock; 25 and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.
26 And every one who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand; 27 and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell; and great was the fall of it."
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 26:1-6
1 In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: "We have a strong city; he sets up salvation as walls and bulwarks. 2 Open the gates, that the righteous nation which keeps faith may enter in.
3 You keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. 4 Trust in the LORD for ever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. 5 For he has brought low the inhabitants of the height, the lofty city. He lays it low, lays it low to the ground, casts it to the dust. 6 The foot tramples it, the feet of the poor, the steps of the needy."
26 And every one who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand; 27 and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell; and great was the fall of it."
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 26:1-6
1 In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: "We have a strong city; he sets up salvation as walls and bulwarks. 2 Open the gates, that the righteous nation which keeps faith may enter in.
3 You keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. 4 Trust in the LORD for ever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. 5 For he has brought low the inhabitants of the height, the lofty city. He lays it low, lays it low to the ground, casts it to the dust. 6 The foot tramples it, the feet of the poor, the steps of the needy."
What’s the best security against disaster and destruction? In the ancient world a strong city, an impregnable fortress, and a secure house were built on solid rock because they could withstand the forces of nature and foe alike. Isaiah speaks of God as an “everlasting rock” (Isaiah 26:4).
He is the rock of refuge and deliverance (Psalm 18:2) and the rock in whom there is no wrong (Psalm 92:15). Scripture warns that destruction will surely come to those who place their security in something other than God and his kingdom.
Jesus’ parables invite us to stake our lives on the coming of his kingdom or face the consequences of being unprepared when the day of testing and destruction will surely come.
When Jesus told the story of the builders he likely had the following proverb in mind: "When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm for ever" (Proverbs 10:25). What's the significance of the story for us?
The kind of foundation we build our lives upon will determine whether we can survive the storms that are sure to come. Builders usually lay their foundations when the weather and soil conditions are at their best.
It takes foresight to know how a foundation will stand up against adverse conditions. Building a house on a flood plain, such as a dry river-bed, is a sure bet for disaster! Jesus prefaced his story with a warning: We may fool humans with our speech, but God cannot be deceived. He sees the heart as it truly is – with its motives, intentions, desires, and choices (Psalm 139:2).
There is only one way in which a person's sincerity can be proved, and that is by one's practice. Fine words can never replace good deeds. Our character is revealed in the choices we make, especially when we are tested.
Do you cheat on an exam or on your income taxes, especially when it will cost you?
Do you lie, or cover-up, when disclosing the truth will cause you injury or embarrassment?
A true person is honest and reliable before God, one's neighbor and oneself. His or her word can be counted on.
If you heed God's word and live according to it then you need not fear when storms assail you. God will be your rock and your refuge.
Is your life built upon the sure "rock" of Jesus Christ and do you listen to his word as if your life depended on it?
He is the rock of refuge and deliverance (Psalm 18:2) and the rock in whom there is no wrong (Psalm 92:15). Scripture warns that destruction will surely come to those who place their security in something other than God and his kingdom.
Jesus’ parables invite us to stake our lives on the coming of his kingdom or face the consequences of being unprepared when the day of testing and destruction will surely come.
When Jesus told the story of the builders he likely had the following proverb in mind: "When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm for ever" (Proverbs 10:25). What's the significance of the story for us?
The kind of foundation we build our lives upon will determine whether we can survive the storms that are sure to come. Builders usually lay their foundations when the weather and soil conditions are at their best.
It takes foresight to know how a foundation will stand up against adverse conditions. Building a house on a flood plain, such as a dry river-bed, is a sure bet for disaster! Jesus prefaced his story with a warning: We may fool humans with our speech, but God cannot be deceived. He sees the heart as it truly is – with its motives, intentions, desires, and choices (Psalm 139:2).
There is only one way in which a person's sincerity can be proved, and that is by one's practice. Fine words can never replace good deeds. Our character is revealed in the choices we make, especially when we are tested.
Do you cheat on an exam or on your income taxes, especially when it will cost you?
Do you lie, or cover-up, when disclosing the truth will cause you injury or embarrassment?
A true person is honest and reliable before God, one's neighbor and oneself. His or her word can be counted on.
If you heed God's word and live according to it then you need not fear when storms assail you. God will be your rock and your refuge.
Is your life built upon the sure "rock" of Jesus Christ and do you listen to his word as if your life depended on it?
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Wednesday's Gospel: satisfying the deepest longings
Scripture: Matthew 15:29-37
29 And Jesus went on from there and passed along the Sea of Galilee. And he went up on the mountain, and sat down there. 30 And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them, 31 so that the throng wondered, when they saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.
32 Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way." 33 And the disciples said to him, "Where are we to get bread enough in the desert to feed so great a crowd?" 34 And Jesus said to them, "How many loaves have you?"
They said, "Seven, and a few small fish." 35 And commanding the crowd to sit down on the ground, 36 he took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 37 And they all ate and were satisfied; and they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 25:6-10
6 On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of fat things, a feast of wine on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wine on the lees well refined. 7 And he will destroy on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations.
8 He will swallow up death for ever, and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth; for the LORD has spoken. 9 It will be said on that day, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation." 10 For the hand of the LORD will rest on this mountain, and Moab shall be trodden down in his place, as straw is trodden down in a dung-pit.
Reflections
What can satisfy the deepest hunger and longing of the human heart? Isaiah prophesied that God would provide a heavenly banquet for all peoples and would destroy death once and for all (Isaiah 2:6-8). Jesus came to fulfill that promise. Jesus' miracles are both a sign of God’s kingdom and a demonstration of God’s power. They also show the magnitude of God’s mercy.
When the disciples were confronted by Jesus with the task of feeding four thousand people many miles away from any source of food, they exclaimed: Where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?
The Israelites were confronted with the same dilemma when they fled Egypt and found themselves in a barren wilderness. Like the miraculous provision of manna in the wilderness, Jesus, himself provides bread in abundance for the hungry crowd who came out into the desert to seek him. The gospel records that all were satisfied and they took up what was leftover.
In the multiplication of the loaves and fishes we see a sign and a symbol of what God always does. God knows our needs and he cares. When God gives, he gives in abundance. The gospel account records that the leftovers from the miraculous meal was more than seven times the amount they began with.
Seven is a symbol of completion and wholeness. When God gives, he gives until we are satisfied. When God works for his people he gives abundantly – more than we could deserve and more than we need. He nourishes us with his life-giving word and with the bread of heaven. In the kingdom of heaven God will feast us at his banquet table.
Are you satisfied with God's provision for you?
And do you long with expectant hope for the coming of his kingdom in all its fullness?
32 Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way." 33 And the disciples said to him, "Where are we to get bread enough in the desert to feed so great a crowd?" 34 And Jesus said to them, "How many loaves have you?"
They said, "Seven, and a few small fish." 35 And commanding the crowd to sit down on the ground, 36 he took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 37 And they all ate and were satisfied; and they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 25:6-10
6 On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of fat things, a feast of wine on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wine on the lees well refined. 7 And he will destroy on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations.
8 He will swallow up death for ever, and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth; for the LORD has spoken. 9 It will be said on that day, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation." 10 For the hand of the LORD will rest on this mountain, and Moab shall be trodden down in his place, as straw is trodden down in a dung-pit.
What can satisfy the deepest hunger and longing of the human heart? Isaiah prophesied that God would provide a heavenly banquet for all peoples and would destroy death once and for all (Isaiah 2:6-8). Jesus came to fulfill that promise. Jesus' miracles are both a sign of God’s kingdom and a demonstration of God’s power. They also show the magnitude of God’s mercy.
When the disciples were confronted by Jesus with the task of feeding four thousand people many miles away from any source of food, they exclaimed: Where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?
The Israelites were confronted with the same dilemma when they fled Egypt and found themselves in a barren wilderness. Like the miraculous provision of manna in the wilderness, Jesus, himself provides bread in abundance for the hungry crowd who came out into the desert to seek him. The gospel records that all were satisfied and they took up what was leftover.
In the multiplication of the loaves and fishes we see a sign and a symbol of what God always does. God knows our needs and he cares. When God gives, he gives in abundance. The gospel account records that the leftovers from the miraculous meal was more than seven times the amount they began with.
Seven is a symbol of completion and wholeness. When God gives, he gives until we are satisfied. When God works for his people he gives abundantly – more than we could deserve and more than we need. He nourishes us with his life-giving word and with the bread of heaven. In the kingdom of heaven God will feast us at his banquet table.
Are you satisfied with God's provision for you?
And do you long with expectant hope for the coming of his kingdom in all its fullness?
moving away is just as easy as A-B-C
Oftentimes in our lives, we become complacent and unaffected by circumstances that arise in the midst of our day-to-day life encounter. We certainly have laid out future plans that will make our lives and the lives of our families and loved ones far more better.
But the mechanics and the actions do not usually go and square with such bright plans. Difficulties pose as barriers that eventually prevent us from realizing such plans. We need some outside help then to be able to materialize and realize our future plans. In the case of our plans for our children- we need to mobilize them by getting assistance from outside: maybe, from professionals, or other forms of assistance, monetary or otherwise.
In the case of moving away, we can get assistance that will be of great help for such seemed-to- be gigantic job. The perfect answer to remedy such such worries is to take a look and consider the help of the Chicago Movers.
The herculian task of Moving is what makes most people make second thoughts and procrastinate their brilliant plans of starting a new life in a new neighborhood and in a new environment that will absolutely realize their future dreams by moving away from their current locale. Such heavy works like unloading and loading, packing and unpacking and driving such heavy stuff to the new abode can be very well taken cared of by these competent helpers that will absolutely make your moving away as as easy as A-B-C.
What, then, can we derive from subscribing to Hireahelper? Well, I should say, visit their site and you will be enlightened and will absolutely be clarified of their awesome services. I tell you, yOu will never regret having availed of their services, I promise you that!
Such noble plan of moving away to a start a new life with our loved ones must never be distorted simply because we think that we do not have an able and reliable assistance that can easily do such manual jobs for us and can very well help and assist us in making our plan of moving away to a new community fully materialized and realized. We therefore need some outside help from a moving company that will take care of our moving needs. I should say, let's not delay our time . Mobilize our plan of moving. We will definitely be very grateful that we have subscribed and availed Hireahelper's help in our moving to our new haven and towards a new brighter future!
But the mechanics and the actions do not usually go and square with such bright plans. Difficulties pose as barriers that eventually prevent us from realizing such plans. We need some outside help then to be able to materialize and realize our future plans. In the case of our plans for our children- we need to mobilize them by getting assistance from outside: maybe, from professionals, or other forms of assistance, monetary or otherwise.
In the case of moving away, we can get assistance that will be of great help for such seemed-to- be gigantic job. The perfect answer to remedy such such worries is to take a look and consider the help of the Chicago Movers.
The herculian task of Moving is what makes most people make second thoughts and procrastinate their brilliant plans of starting a new life in a new neighborhood and in a new environment that will absolutely realize their future dreams by moving away from their current locale. Such heavy works like unloading and loading, packing and unpacking and driving such heavy stuff to the new abode can be very well taken cared of by these competent helpers that will absolutely make your moving away as as easy as A-B-C.
What, then, can we derive from subscribing to Hireahelper? Well, I should say, visit their site and you will be enlightened and will absolutely be clarified of their awesome services. I tell you, yOu will never regret having availed of their services, I promise you that!
Such noble plan of moving away to a start a new life with our loved ones must never be distorted simply because we think that we do not have an able and reliable assistance that can easily do such manual jobs for us and can very well help and assist us in making our plan of moving away to a new community fully materialized and realized. We therefore need some outside help from a moving company that will take care of our moving needs. I should say, let's not delay our time . Mobilize our plan of moving. We will definitely be very grateful that we have subscribed and availed Hireahelper's help in our moving to our new haven and towards a new brighter future!
the ultimate Giver...
The sign of the multiplication of the loaves when the Lord says the blessing, breaks and distributes through his disciples prefigures the superabundance of the unique bread of his Eucharist or Lord’s Supper.
When we receive from the Lord’s table we unite ourselves to Jesus Christ, who makes us sharers in his body and blood.
Ignatius of Antioch (35-107 A.D.) calls it the "one bread that provides the medicine of immortality, the antidote for death, and the food that makes us live for ever in Jesus Christ" (Ad Eph. 20,2).
This supernatural food is healing for both body and soul and strength for our journey heavenward.
When you approach the Table of the Lord, what do you expect to receive? Healing, pardon, comfort, and rest for your soul?
The Lord has much more for us, more than we can ask or imagine. The principal fruit of receiving the Eucharist is an intimate union with Christ.
As bodily nourishment restores lost strength, so the Eucharist strengthens us in charity and enables us to break with disordered attachments to creatures and to be more firmly rooted in the love of Christ. Do you hunger for the "bread of life"?
The feeding of the five thousand shows the remarkable generosity of God and his great kindness towards us.
When God gives, he gives abundantly.
He gives more than we need for ourselves that we may have something to share with others, especially those who lack what they need.
God takes the little we have and multiplies it for the good of others.
Do you trust in God's provision for you and do you share freely with others, especially those who lack?
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