Message of 6-23-11
Published: Mon, 06/20/11
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
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MESSAGE OF THE DAY
True progress is not found in breaking away from the old ways, but
in abiding in the teaching of Christ and His Spirit in the Church.
There is an apparent contradiction here, for how can we abide, and
yet advance? It is a paradox, like much else in scripture; but
Christian experience proves it true. Those make the best progress
in religion who hold fast by the faith once for all delivered to
the saints, and not those who drift away from their moorings,
rudderless upon a sea of doubt.
- Henry Barclay Swete (1835-1917), "The Life of the World to Come"
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LECTIONARY READINGS FOR THE DAY
http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/
Gn 16:1-12, 15-16; Ps. 106:1b-2, 3-4a, 4b-5; Mt 7:21-29
R. (1b) Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
for his mercy endures forever.
Who can tell the mighty deeds of the LORD,
or proclaim all his praises?
Blessed are they who observe what is right,
who do always what is just.
Remember us, O LORD, as you favor your people.
Visit me with your saving help,
that I may see the prosperity of your chosen ones,
rejoice in the joy of your people,
and glory with your inheritance.
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MEDITATION ON THE GOSPEL
- from "Daily Bread"
http://www.preacherexchange.com/daily_bread.htm
"Everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on
them will be like a fool ..."
A challenge: Think back on the times when you've really messed up.
Was there even one incident of serious damage because you followed
the Gospel? In my case ... no. And each time I failed so miserably,
particularly when acting out of fear or greed or temper, there was
an inner voice that said, "Hold on, girl!" As miserable as our sins
of commission might be, our sins of omission may be even worse. To
know these teachings so well and yet fail to act ... shame on me.
Discipleship is a daily business. Mindfully doing our best each
day, and taking stock before we sleep, is how we stay on the path.
"Lord Jesus, give me the grace for the long haul."
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SPIRITUAL READING
- "Imitation of Christ," by Thomas A. Kempis
The Disciple
O Lord, upon Your altar of expiation, I offer You all the sins and
offenses I have committed in Your presence and in the presence of
Your holy angels, from the day when I first could sin until this
hour, that You may burn and consume them all in the fire of Your
love, that You may wipe away their every stain, cleanse my
conscience of every fault, and restore to me Your grace which I
lost in sin by granting full pardon for all and receiving me
mercifully with the kiss of peace.
- Book 4, Chapter 9
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