Devotion
Follow Me
Frances Taylor
Boy, are we just like the people in Jesus' day! We say we will follow Jesus, but we put it off with all kinds of excuses! I need to work; my kids are in sports; I'll do it when I'm older. I don't have time right now for you, Jesus, but the day will come when I will have time. Imagine how that works with our earthly relationships! There's an old song called "Cat's in the Cradle" that talks about a father who doesn't have time for his son while the son is growing up and only realizes what he has done when he retires and the son now has no time for him. The good news is that Jesus will always have time for us no matter how long it takes for us to wake up and make room for him in our lives. But think of what we miss! We can miss years, or in some cases, a lifetime, of knowing that Jesus has our back – he will always be there to help and guide us. His grace will be there to keep us from making some pretty terrible mistakes. All we need to do is follow him. In one of the classes we had this spring, the video instructor explained that the "yoke" that Jesus asks us to take for our own, is not a burdensome piece of wood that keeps us tied to the plow, but rather, a point of view. Jesus asks us to view life as he did – working for justice, in communion with one another, always connected to the God who made us. Yes, it can be difficult at times because the world is always pulling us in all directions, but with the grace of God, we can do it. What has happened when you didn't follow Jesus? I know that in my life, that's when I was on my knees begging God to get me out of the mess I made. In the long run, life is actually easier when we give in, let go of the excuses, and just follow Jesus.
Prayer
Lord, my desire is to follow you, to answer your call, but I am not like the apostles who dropped everything to follow. I often let the cares of my world get in the way. Give me the graces I need to make this year a better one as your disciple. Amen.
Devotion
How Do You Choose Your Friends?
Frances Taylor
How do we choose our friends? This week's gospel is about this question as much as it is about humility. I'm sure that when we make up an invitation list for a party or other special event we consider a lot of things, but Jesus is trying to tell us something important in this week's gospel that goes beyond just who we invite, he is also telling us to consider some things about ourselves. This can apply to all age groups!
Our children will learn from us and sometimes we need to learn from our children. Are there people we don't include in our circle of friends because of what other people might think? Perhaps people who are of another race, those who earn less money, people whose educational level is not the same as ours? I know that weddings can often be a bone of contention in families because someone feels the need to invite "the boss" or other people of influence even though there has never been any social interaction before. There ...
Morning Prayer
I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Inspiration
Remember the childhood phrase, "Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words can never hurt me? " Now think about how often we are hurt by the words of another person. Most of us are very sensitive towards the words and actions of other people, rarely seeking refuge in the love of God. Next time someone does something that hurts you, focus on God's love instead of the evil thoughts that can easily follow these times. Gradually, God's love will set you free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for all that you have done for me. I thank you for loving me and helping me understand what love is. Strengthen me in times that are difficult, aiding me when I am hurt so that I can love even my enemies. I know that through you, all things are possible, and I humbly ask that you help me grow with you in life's ...
Night Prayer
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Inspiration
We must be sincere with our generosity and give in abundance. God blesses us beyond our means, in some form or fashion. He allows us to provide for those in need with our finances, labor, or time. Our world is broken and filled with those who desperately seek light amidst the darkness. We minister to them by providing for their needs, making our actions reflect Your love.
Prayer
Dear Lord, show us opportunities to share all Your blessings. Help us, minister, to others in a manner that reflects your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
