Message of 6-2-15

Published: Tue, 06/02/15

A Daily Spiritual Seed
Tuesday: June 2, 2015
Message of the Day

There are many things to be grateful “for” but, as I ripen with the seasons of life, the many reasons blend into a sacred mystery. And, most deeply, I realize that living gratefully is its own blessing.
- Michael Mahoney


("Living gratefully. . ." What blessings are you in touch with? Give thanks for these, and pray to recognize others that have gone unnoticed.)
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Daily Readings
 
TB 2:9-14;    PS 112:1-2, 7-9;    MK 12:13-17

R. The heart of the just one is firm, trusting in the Lord.

Blessed the man who fears the LORD,
who greatly delights in his commands.
His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth;
the upright generation shall be blessed.

An evil report he shall not fear;
his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD.
His heart is steadfast; he shall not fear
till he looks down upon his foes. 

Lavishly he gives to the poor;
his generosity shall endure forever;
his horn shall be exalted in glory.

USCCB Lectionary
 Reflection on the Scriptures

The age old debate over the relationship between church and state is fascinating to me.  I truly believe we were each put on this earth for very specific purposes by our Creator.  That being said, our political (state) functions must reflect that purpose. Simply put, when creating or reevaluating laws of our land we could navigate that path by asking the question WWJD—What would Jesus do?”  If only things were that simple…  This is strictly my opinion at this moment.  Take some time to reflect on your thoughts on this question regarding the relationship of church and state.

Next, I find great comfort in knowing that I was created by a Loving God who has great plans for me.  It’s kind of a daunting feeling at times.  Ultimately, I belong to God, and it is my responsibility to live the Gospel in my daily life.  A great challenge indeed.  Think of how you care for something you worked very hard to make, or how you care for and protect a prized possession.  Aren’t you very gentle with it?  You may allow it to serve its purpose—if it’s a car, you drive it on occasion.  If it is a garden, you prune it, water it, and ultimately enjoy the fruit, vegetable, or flower outside of the garden.  If it is a child, you love it and protect it, but at some point must let it leave the house and live life. We belong to God, he has a plan for each of us, and he cares for us, and prepares us to carry out His plan.  Think about what purpose you may serve on this earth, and how you might carry that out in a way that is pleasing to God.
“Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.”  

- by Angela Maynard
 

Creighton Online Ministries

SPIRITUAL READING


On Spiritual Direction
- by Philip St. Romain, M.S., D. Min.
     Excerpted from Handbook for Spiritual Directees

     http://shalomplace.com/view/handbook.html

   
The Agenda in Spiritual Direction (part 2)

After getting to know each other, you and the director may decide on a few structured activities to work on, or you may agree to go through a book on spiritual growth together.  Many directors are trained in the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius and use these in some manner with their directees.  I like to use the Twelve Steps with people I work with.  Others know a great deal about keeping a personal journal and may encourage you to keep one if you haven't already started doing so.  Most directors these days also respect the fact that different human temperaments are drawn in different ways by the Spirit, so they might want to help you discover your personality type.

As you can see, many kinds of issues can be discussed in spiritual direction.  Of paramount importance, however, is your life of prayer.  A spiritual director is one who will hold you accountable for daily prayer.  He or she will be interested in hearing what is happening during your prayer and will help you deepen your growth in prayer.

see http://shalomplace.com/direction for more info about spiritual direction.


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