Simplifying Willingly or Unwillingly: Exodus 16: 2-15; Ephesians 4: 20-24; John 6: 24-35
Scripture can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
In the past year or two many people have faced obstacles and challenges that they had not anticipated. As the economic downturn touched more people and impacted family life, people were forced to make changes in many areas of their lives. This necessity to choose, to do without, or to find alternatives even opened some people's eyes to the differences between "need" and "want". As people simplified, many began to see that some accustomed areas of their lives were not really helpful or necessary. Somehow many simple elements of life became more important!
God's Word today reminds us of this aspect of human nature. The grumbling of the Israelites (Exodus) might sound a bit like us when things don't go as we had anticipated. Yet, as God's Word today reminds us, we do have many blessings in our lives.
This awareness of our everyday blessings can have a transforming effect (Ephesians), that helps us be more aware of the gifts that we already have. Indeed, an "attitude of gratitude" even makes a difference physically! Transformation can occur in many ways!
As we realize that we do have many blessings, we too will be more satisfied (John). In turn, we can even become a blessing to others!
To think about:
What is my usual reaction when things don't go my way?
Do I usually look for "more" and thus miss seeing the gifts in my life?
Have I tried developing an "attitude of gratitude" mindset?
Will simplifying some area of my life help me be more satisfied?
To do:
Try the "Gratitude Attitude" a few times a day.
Involve your family in making choices that affect them. For instance, children can learn to help with meals instead of going to a restaurant.
Commend your child when (s)he finds new ways to reuse instead of buying new.
Go through those closets and figure out what cloting combinatins can be reworked instead of buying more.
Try using some saved money to help those who do not have life's essentials.
To pray: Hear Jesus saying to you, "I am Bread for your life." (John)
Next week: 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time: 1Kings 19: 4-8; Ephesians 4: 30 - 5:2; John 6: 41-51
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A Little Goes A Long Way: Reflection for July 26, 2009: 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time:
2Kings 4:42-44; Ephesians 4:1-6; John 6:1-15
Scripture for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
A Little Goes a Long Way
Have you ever faced a task that initially seemed insurmountable and overwhelming? Perhaps it was a “personal improvement project”, or a task at home, school or work. As almost everyone who has faced a situation like this may have learned, one helpful hint is to use small steps, and to concentrate on one area at a time. Although the improvement or change may not be noticeable at first, small, incremental changes begin to add up. One day we do notice a change!
Nature shows us many examples of this “small difference”. New streams or brooks develop, land erodes or increases, and amazing changes occur in rock formations when a few drops of water hit the surface of that rock for many years.
Relationships and behaviors can follow the same pattern. Small changes can make a difference.
How well God’s Word today reminds us of the change that God can make in our lives when we bring even our small efforts to God and try to help others (Kings, John). Like the young boy's few barley loaves or small fish, our contribution might seem quite insignificant. Perhaps the change that we hope to see in ourselves or in our world even seems out of reach (Ephesians).
God’s Word today can encourage us to continue our small, seemingly insignificant, efforts in our daily life, knowing that God can make a difference with our small efforts!
To think about:
Do I look for the results of my actions, or am I willing to contribute to the larger good without fanfare and notice?
Do I refuse to become involved in some efforts that try to make a difference because the problem is just too big or overwhelming?
Do I express appreciation for small gestures of kindness, love, and caring (Ephesians)?
Do I take time to notice my blessings, my family’s blessings?
Do I share my blessings and giftedness with others?
Do I notice giftedness in others, or do I usually feel threatened by another’s giftedness?
To do:
Take the first step in a project that seems overwhelming and develop a plan to take a step each day.
Express appreciation for small gestures of kindness, care, and love that you receive.
Notice your child’s efforts to co-operate, share, or be patient.
Thank God for your many blessings, especially noting small, usually unnoticed blessings.
Give money that you would spend on a new item of clothing, extra entertainment, or another restaurant meal to an organization that provides necessities of food, water, or housing for others.
Be more aware of the food you and your family eat, noticing taste, color, and fragrance.
To pray: “One bread, one body…And we, though many, throughout the earth, we are one body in this one Lord”
Next week: 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Exodus 16: 2-15; Ephesians 4: 17-24; John 24-35
Scripture for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
A Little Goes a Long Way
Have you ever faced a task that initially seemed insurmountable and overwhelming? Perhaps it was a “personal improvement project”, or a task at home, school or work. As almost everyone who has faced a situation like this may have learned, one helpful hint is to use small steps, and to concentrate on one area at a time. Although the improvement or change may not be noticeable at first, small, incremental changes begin to add up. One day we do notice a change!
Nature shows us many examples of this “small difference”. New streams or brooks develop, land erodes or increases, and amazing changes occur in rock formations when a few drops of water hit the surface of that rock for many years.
Relationships and behaviors can follow the same pattern. Small changes can make a difference.
How well God’s Word today reminds us of the change that God can make in our lives when we bring even our small efforts to God and try to help others (Kings, John). Like the young boy's few barley loaves or small fish, our contribution might seem quite insignificant. Perhaps the change that we hope to see in ourselves or in our world even seems out of reach (Ephesians).
God’s Word today can encourage us to continue our small, seemingly insignificant, efforts in our daily life, knowing that God can make a difference with our small efforts!
To think about:
Do I look for the results of my actions, or am I willing to contribute to the larger good without fanfare and notice?
Do I refuse to become involved in some efforts that try to make a difference because the problem is just too big or overwhelming?
Do I express appreciation for small gestures of kindness, love, and caring (Ephesians)?
Do I take time to notice my blessings, my family’s blessings?
Do I share my blessings and giftedness with others?
Do I notice giftedness in others, or do I usually feel threatened by another’s giftedness?
To do:
Take the first step in a project that seems overwhelming and develop a plan to take a step each day.
Express appreciation for small gestures of kindness, care, and love that you receive.
Notice your child’s efforts to co-operate, share, or be patient.
Thank God for your many blessings, especially noting small, usually unnoticed blessings.
Give money that you would spend on a new item of clothing, extra entertainment, or another restaurant meal to an organization that provides necessities of food, water, or housing for others.
Be more aware of the food you and your family eat, noticing taste, color, and fragrance.
To pray: “One bread, one body…And we, though many, throughout the earth, we are one body in this one Lord”
Next week: 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Exodus 16: 2-15; Ephesians 4: 17-24; John 24-35
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Life’s Connections : Reflection for July 19, 2009
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jeremiah 23: 1-6; Ephesians 2: 13-18; Mark 6: 30-34
Scripture for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
It is amazing how often small, sometimes seemingly insignificant, interactions can have a “ripple” effect and can stay with us for a while. In fact stories abound about wonderful moments that made a great difference in a person’s life. I know that I’ve received many such stories that circulate via mail. And as we continue to learn each day, we are amazingly connected.
God’s Word today can speak to us of this connection we have to God and to each other.
Unfortunately some people do have a negative influence; they “mislead and scatter” those to whom they are connected (Jeremiah). But this Word also tells us that God’s desire is to “gather… to reconcile… to make peace” (Ephesians).
In our own lives, particularly in the summertime, we might find ourselves interacting with others in ways that are different from our interactions at other times of the year. Like Jesus and his friends, we might find ourselves “in the boat” or involved in community projects of some kind (Mark)
This week we can use God’s Word to remember our connection with God who is present to strengthen us and nourish us (Psalm 23- Responsorial Psalm), and we can remember that we continue God’s work in our everyday lives in our interactions of caring for others, nourishing them in different ways, and trying to bring peace.
To think about: When have I experienced a sense of connection with a group or a community?
Do I have a connection with family and community? Do I encourage efforts to build community?
Do I know anyone who feels like a "stranger or alien" (Ephesians)? How do I try to include others in groups?
Has this summer become such a busy time that I and my family have been "coming and going… with no leisure even to eat" (Mark)? Do we need to make some changes in our schedules in order to appreciate each other and enjoy each other's company? Or do we need to move beyond the limits of our own family activity to become involved in a more inclusive community activity?
To do: Participate in a community endeavor and encourage those who give their time, talent and energies to such endeavors. Affirm your child's efforts to include someone new in his or her group.
Become involved with your child in an outreach effort to help others by visiting someone who is lonely, or by helping to feed someone who is hungry; community possibilities abound.
Take out family photos and reacquaint your child with family ancestors, those who were “shepherds”, who care for others and brought joy.
Do an internet search for information about some of the saints, especially those who might have a special meaning for someone in the family. A good resource site is http://www.findinggod.org/., Loyola Publication’s website.
To pray: "We, though many, throughout the earth - we are one Body in this one Lord.”
Next week: 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time: 2Kings 4:42-44; Ephesians 4:1-6; John 6:1-15
Scripture for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
It is amazing how often small, sometimes seemingly insignificant, interactions can have a “ripple” effect and can stay with us for a while. In fact stories abound about wonderful moments that made a great difference in a person’s life. I know that I’ve received many such stories that circulate via mail. And as we continue to learn each day, we are amazingly connected.
God’s Word today can speak to us of this connection we have to God and to each other.
Unfortunately some people do have a negative influence; they “mislead and scatter” those to whom they are connected (Jeremiah). But this Word also tells us that God’s desire is to “gather… to reconcile… to make peace” (Ephesians).
In our own lives, particularly in the summertime, we might find ourselves interacting with others in ways that are different from our interactions at other times of the year. Like Jesus and his friends, we might find ourselves “in the boat” or involved in community projects of some kind (Mark)
This week we can use God’s Word to remember our connection with God who is present to strengthen us and nourish us (Psalm 23- Responsorial Psalm), and we can remember that we continue God’s work in our everyday lives in our interactions of caring for others, nourishing them in different ways, and trying to bring peace.
To think about: When have I experienced a sense of connection with a group or a community?
Do I have a connection with family and community? Do I encourage efforts to build community?
Do I know anyone who feels like a "stranger or alien" (Ephesians)? How do I try to include others in groups?
Has this summer become such a busy time that I and my family have been "coming and going… with no leisure even to eat" (Mark)? Do we need to make some changes in our schedules in order to appreciate each other and enjoy each other's company? Or do we need to move beyond the limits of our own family activity to become involved in a more inclusive community activity?
To do: Participate in a community endeavor and encourage those who give their time, talent and energies to such endeavors. Affirm your child's efforts to include someone new in his or her group.
Become involved with your child in an outreach effort to help others by visiting someone who is lonely, or by helping to feed someone who is hungry; community possibilities abound.
Take out family photos and reacquaint your child with family ancestors, those who were “shepherds”, who care for others and brought joy.
Do an internet search for information about some of the saints, especially those who might have a special meaning for someone in the family. A good resource site is http://www.findinggod.org/., Loyola Publication’s website.
To pray: "We, though many, throughout the earth - we are one Body in this one Lord.”
Next week: 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time: 2Kings 4:42-44; Ephesians 4:1-6; John 6:1-15
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Looking for a Job?:Reflection for July 12, 2009
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Amos 7: 12-15; Ephesians 1: 3-14; Mark 6: 14-19
Scripture for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
Regardless of the condition of the job market, the market for Christians is always booming. In fact, Jesus has already selected each of us for a job. It’s up to us to respond and either start or continue working for Jesus.
While we may not think that we are well qualified or that we are “the right candidate” for the position, Jesus has other ideas. In fact, as God’s Word tells us today, God has chosen many people who did not think that they were qualified (Amos, Mark). However, God’s Word also shows us that God has chosen us (Ephesians).
Each of us, with our individual talents and abilities, strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, is challenged and strengthened to respond to the job offer that God has given us: to bring the Good News of God’s Love to others.
To think about: How would I rate my “job performance” as a disciple? How do I let Jesus’ values influence the way my family and I live? If people were arrested for being followers of Jesus, what evidence could be used for or against me?
Does my life show that I consider discipleship to be a blessing or a burden? Who are some people who have positively influenced my view of lived discipleship?
Can I bring an awareness of being called and sent by God to one aspect of my daily life: the way I interact with someone, use my time, or spend money?
To do: Think “WWJD?” (What Would Jesus Do?) when making a decision or evaluating a situation this week. Look at your talents, abilities, and interests, and notice how you are already doing God’s work as a disciple.
Give your child opportunities to help and serve others by visiting an elderly neighbor or relative, playing with a younger child, or being involved in a community project.
Before going to sleep, thank God for the opportunities you had that day to be Jesus’ voice, hands, and feet.
Read a book or view a video of someone you consider to be a disciple; encourage your child to read about a Christian hero or heroine.
To pray: “I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.”
Next week: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jeremiah 23: 1-6; Ephesians 2: 13-18; Mark 6: 30-34
Scripture for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab.
Regardless of the condition of the job market, the market for Christians is always booming. In fact, Jesus has already selected each of us for a job. It’s up to us to respond and either start or continue working for Jesus.
While we may not think that we are well qualified or that we are “the right candidate” for the position, Jesus has other ideas. In fact, as God’s Word tells us today, God has chosen many people who did not think that they were qualified (Amos, Mark). However, God’s Word also shows us that God has chosen us (Ephesians).
Each of us, with our individual talents and abilities, strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, is challenged and strengthened to respond to the job offer that God has given us: to bring the Good News of God’s Love to others.
To think about: How would I rate my “job performance” as a disciple? How do I let Jesus’ values influence the way my family and I live? If people were arrested for being followers of Jesus, what evidence could be used for or against me?
Does my life show that I consider discipleship to be a blessing or a burden? Who are some people who have positively influenced my view of lived discipleship?
Can I bring an awareness of being called and sent by God to one aspect of my daily life: the way I interact with someone, use my time, or spend money?
To do: Think “WWJD?” (What Would Jesus Do?) when making a decision or evaluating a situation this week. Look at your talents, abilities, and interests, and notice how you are already doing God’s work as a disciple.
Give your child opportunities to help and serve others by visiting an elderly neighbor or relative, playing with a younger child, or being involved in a community project.
Before going to sleep, thank God for the opportunities you had that day to be Jesus’ voice, hands, and feet.
Read a book or view a video of someone you consider to be a disciple; encourage your child to read about a Christian hero or heroine.
To pray: “I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.”
Next week: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jeremiah 23: 1-6; Ephesians 2: 13-18; Mark 6: 30-34
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