Sunday, April 24, 2011

Returning To God's Service

Beads of Joy 04-24-11

Returning To God's Service

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

Just want to say hello to everyone, and let you know that I am doing all I can to get back on track. The move is just about complete now, so I will be 100% back on track serving our Lord. I apologize for the delay and missed blog days. God has been so good to us, Chrissy's remission has brought all of us so much Joy, and the move has given us a renewed beginning, in a beautiful home and a wonderful welcoming community. I ask our Lord to continue using me, in whatever way He sees fit. I desire nothing in return, this is all for my love for Him.

Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Miracles That Really Happen

Beads of Joy 04-16-11

Miracles That Really Happen

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

Let's back this story up to last month (March) and reflect on a reflection I had, that I couldn't understand, but still accepted and embraced. For starters I think it could go without saying, both Chrissy and I have never ever once lost our faith, nor did we ever blame God or even get mad at Him. On the contrary, for the past year (exactly 12 months), we have embraced this ugly thing called cancer and thanked God for the blessings hidden inside it. Chrissy even embraced the thought that it just might take her life. We have been battling this day in and day out; I guess that goes without say, I pretty much keep our lives and these events out in the open for all to see. The "JOY" we seriously have for Jesus and His Most Blessed Precious Mother have been the strength that have kept us strong. We know so many people who asked us, "Why aren't you angry with God?" It's so simple, you see in all things that are God's will, in the end, no matter if they are "good or bad" with how we perceive it; God will get all the glory and praise, the only problem is most people can't weather the storm.

It was back in March in the midst of my own personal prayer time that I got this overwhelming inner peace (I always have that peace). But this time it was different, it focused on April. Now I already knew we were moving, I knew there would be great changes ahead; but I also know that we were still under crazy difficult, harsh stress that just never stopped. In the midst of those thoughts in prayer I just knew April was going to be our "Miracle Month". The moving part was wonderful and uplifting and exciting, but there is no miracle in that. At least not simply in the move itself. But I told everyone, over and over again what April was going to be, before April ever began. Let me be clear, God never spoke to me, I never got a memo from Him, He don't send me private emails, LOL. I simple felt His peace in my heart and that peace focused on the upcoming days of April. I honestly knew there would be miracles, but never thought it to be to this magnitude. But there is so much more to this story of trust and miracles for us in April. You will see, just stay with me and read more. :)))

Now as the month began we knew there were many unresolved health issues on the table; the possibilities of cancer in Chrissy's thyroids, damage to Chrissy's liver due to all the medication this past year, and we still weren't 100% certain with Travis, as far of the doctor giving him a clean bill of health. And we also knew that in April, the C.A.T. scan was going to determine the chemo to come for Chrissy and what the next step was going to be for her. We never ever doubted God's greatness and ability to heal Chrissy; the difference was that we were right in the midst of the storm, day in and day out. So many tears have been shed throughout all this. At the beginning of all this Chrissy and I didn't have a wonderful relationship, we have been in choppy waters between us for many years; but when we were faced with this challenge, we both put down our weapons, joined the same team together and began to fight against this horrible disease, as a team, a couple and a family. Which is truly one of the best ways to gain strength, sticking together and working together.

I seriously believe that all the negative we are faced with in life, is our chance to deepen our faith; which helps bring us closer to our Lord. God uses everything we are dealt with to His glory, we just really need to be patient and never ever give up our trusting in Him. No matter how dark the road ahead looks, know that at the end of that road, God is there with open arms waiting for you. I also feel that if you have been chosen to suffer, and the cross that has been given to you is huge and the weight is immense; and you still take it with love and you embrace it, God will bless you for your faith and trust in Him. See April has been filled with so much joy and so many miracles. First Chrissy's thyroid didn't have any cancer, then Travis got a clean bill of health from his doctor. Then the house we found was a mini replica of our other home in PA, giving a "welcome home" feeling. Then the ultimate of all ultimate miracles happened Chrissy's cancer hasn't grown or done anything during these past four months of her fungal situation. So after the C.A.T. scan was done the doctor told her, no more chemo, no more appointments, no more nothing. So he wants to see her in three months for a check up. Time to celebrate !!! And the month still isn't even over yet.

Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple

Monday, April 11, 2011

Please Bare With Me

Hello Everybody

Just having some challenges with my wireless service. Hope to have it resolved in a couple days, then all Lenten Seasons blog will continue.. Thank you so much for your patience..

In Christ,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Friday, April 8, 2011

Jesus Is - The Messiah

Beads of Joy 04-08-11

Jesus Is - The Messiah

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

I'd like to start of with a quote,“Our Lord had the power to lay down his life and to take it up again. But we cannot choose how long we shall live, and death comes to us even against our will. Christ, by dying, has already overcome death. Our freedom from death comes only through his death. To save us Christ had no need of us. Yet without him we can do nothing. He gave himself to us as the vine to the branches; apart from him we cannot live.” Saint Augustine of Hippo. Everything Jesus did, He did in God's name. Jesus boldly told us who He was, and He also boldly told us he'd die for us. There was never a misunderstanding or middle ground as to who Jesus was and what His purpose was. Jesus was very clear and direct and to the point with all that. Let us also be bold in our love for Him, our allegiance to Him and devotion to Him. Never let anyone sway you away from that.

Today's Gospel: John 7:1-2,10,25-30 (Is Jesus The Messiah?)
"After this Jesus went about in Galilee; he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. Now the Jews' feast of Tabernacles was at hand. But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private. Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, "Is not this the man whom they seek to kill? And here he is, speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ? Yet we know where this man comes from; and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from." So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, "You know me, and you know where I come from? But I have not come of my own accord; he who sent me is true, and him you do not know. I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me." So they sought to arrest him; but no one laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet come."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Why would you ever consider not doing God's will?
-Do you question who Jesus is, not convinced yet?
-What was the question they asked of doubt, or jealousy?
-Who is Jesus really to you? Finish this: Jesus Is.....
(Stop questioning who Jesus is today, and starting
today, pray your Divine Mercy Chaplet everyday
.)
JESUS, I TRUST IN YOU..


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries

1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Devout Love For God's Word

Beads of Joy 04-07-11

Devout Love For God's Word

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

The Bible, the Bible, the Bible; God's word, scripture, the Good book, the Good News. So many names for such a blessed incredibly awesome book. This exciting book, along with my mission rosary beads are my life. I can't understand how anyone so deeply in love with Jesus would need anything else; as far as possessions to help excite and light their soul on fire.. I pray that everyone has a bible, every ones version preference is different and is fine, as long as it is an approved version and it helps you understand God's message. I collect bibles, not for personal use, but to give them away. It's great to be able to put our Lord's word into the hands of people who really want it. Our Lord leads my heart when I do give them away.

I had this quote emailed to me just recently. It didn't come with an author, but I thought it was appropriate for today's blog focus on the bible. "Did you know that when you carry “the Bible”, Satan has a headache, when you open it, he collapses, when he sees you reading it, he loses his strength, AND when you stand on the Word of God, Satan can't hurt you!" unknown author.

My Reflection: (last night's quotes)
"Take a very serious, very deliberate period of time each day; to read and meditate on God's blessed word."

"While reading His word, let us spend time reflecting; on the personal relationship we have with Him."

"God's word is exciting, it always brings a new burst of life to our day; so let's embrace our bibles."

"Stay focused on the things above; prayer and bible study are truly wonderful ways to stay 24/7 Jesus."

"Avoid TV unless it's EWTN, stop feeding our mind with pointless things; rather read your bible daily."

"Pondering Gods word through the bible; is a wonderful way each and everyday, to get closer to our Lord."

"The bible is the book of choice; there's no other book like it in the world, filled with eternal joy."

"Contemplating scripture every day, can be very exciting and fun; the Joy God's word shares is eternal."

"If there was one thing, aside from praying your Rosary that I'd recommend; I'd say, read your bible."

"The Bible (sometimes The Book, The Good Book, Word of God, or Scripture), from Greek (τα) βιβλια, (ta) biblia, "(the) books", plural of βιβλιον, biblion, "book", originally a diminutive of βιβλος, biblos, which in turn is derived from βυβλος—byblos, meaning "papyrus", from the ancient Phoenician city of Byblos which exported this writing material), is the classical name for the Hebrew Bible of Judaism or the combination of the Old Testament and New Testament of Christianity ("The Bible" therefore actually refers to at least two different Bibles). It is thus applied to sacred scriptures. Many Christian English speakers refer to the Christian Bible as "the good book". For many people, their Bible is the revealed word of God or an authoritative record of the relationship between God, the world, and humankind." Excerpt from the Mexican Missions

Today's Gospel: John 5:31-47 (Witness to Jesus)
"If I bear witness to myself, my testimony is not true; there is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light. But the testimony which I have is greater than that of John; for the works which the Father has granted me to accomplish, these very works which I am doing, bear me witness that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself borne witness to me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen; and you do not have his word abiding in you, for you do not believe him whom he has sent. You search the scriptures, because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness to me; yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. I do not receive glory from men. But I know that you have not the love of God within you. I have come in my Father's name, and you do not receive me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. How can you believe, who receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; it is Moses who accuses you, on whom you set your hope. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote of me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?"

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Do you really know how much Joy is found in God's word?
-Are you an eager student of God's word everyday?
-How connected to scripture, do you believe we should be?
-Is being familiar with scripture important to you? Why?
(Grab your bible, open it up and take a few minutes to
glance through the old and new testaments. Wow, isn't that
incredible how God's words are pressed between these pages
.)


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Luminous Mysteries

1. Baptism of Jesus
2. Wedding at Cana
3. Proclamation of the Kingdom
4. The Transfiguration
5. Institution of the Holy Eucharist

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Abundant Life - In Jesus

Beads of Joy 04-06-11

Abundant Life - In Jesus

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

The Abundant Life is something that we all want to live to some capacity, today let us look at some of the aspects of abundant life. "Abundant life refers to Christian teachings on prosperity and health for the total human being, including the body, mind, emotions, relationships, material needs, and eternal life. The Bible, the good news (Christianity), and salvation are essential elements of these teachings." wikipedi.org defines it that way. I think that is a pretty good definition. Here are nine aspects of this life.

>Minimize The Clutter: One very special quality to many living the abundant life find almost happens naturally. When you life is engulfed in our Lord, much of the "stuff" means nothing, so we tend to junk, give away and rid our lives of so much of it.

>Forgive Those of Their Wrong Doings: Anyone who speaks evil of you, badly about you, mistreats you or just even mean to you; needs to be forgiven by us. It's not going to be easy, but it is very possible. Pray every single time you are confronted with this.

>Accept Others Kindness and Charity: It's not always easy to accept things, but just like we are so blessed in giving, we are also very blessed in receiving. Allow God to lead your heart in thanksgiving for all you receive.

>Helping Out Others: This can be a wonderful Joy whenever it's possible. Sometimes others need a shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen; or a chance to listen to your take on a problem they are facing. Simply allow your faith and love for Jesus to help you, help others.

>Be Charitable: Step to the plate whenever possible. Sometimes people and families in need, feel funny asking for help, when they might not even have enough to put food on their table. If we find out someones challenges, let us be like Jesus and do whatever we can to help relieve the stress.

>Do Not Allow Jealousy: No matter who has what, or does what, or travels to wherever, or drives this or that, or lives in their or in that place. No matter what the details of whoever are, never allow jealousy to enter to your heart.

>Be Grateful In All Things: This aspect of living the abundant life is lived by many already; but it's a wonderful way of sharing your love of our Lord. Thanking Him for both the good and bad things also needs to be part of this wonderful aspects.

>Tithe Often: This is vital to keeping our parishes up and running. If money is an issue, give of your talents, and your time, maybe cleaning, or teaching, setting up for events, cleaning after, anything you can give is of such a blessing.

>Financial Honesty: Complete financial honesty, only live the life you can afford, staying in your means is responsible and honest. It keeps you better focused in your faith, when your actions and faith is alive in all you do.

Today's Gospel: John 5:17-30 (The Authority of The Son)
"But Jesus answered them, "My Father is working still, and I am working." This was why the Jews sought all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the Sabbath but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever he does, that the Son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son, and shows him all that he himself is doing; and greater works than these will he show him, that you may marvel. For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he will. The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes him who sent me, has eternal life; he does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. "Truly, truly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself, and has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of man. Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come forth, those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgment. "I can do nothing on my own authority; as I hear, I judge; and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Who is the ultimate power and authority of the universe?
-How wonderful can your life being living like this?
-Do you find that these aspects of life are possible?
-Is there any difficult part of these thoughts?
(Attempt to incorporate these wonderful aspects
into your daily life. It will make you a better person
.)


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Holiness - Free From Sin

Beads of Joy 04-05-11

Holiness - Free From Sin

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

God wants us to be free, and He wants to heal us, this is why Jesus asked, "Do you want to be healed?" Some people like to be lazy and catered to. Let us be aggressive in following after Jesus, and doing all we can to not be lazy in stopping our sinfulness. Some people are always curious as to "How" can I try to keep sin out of my life? What must I do to make every attempt to stop sinning? It's not all that difficult, I'm saying that stopping sinning is not that difficult; but I am saying a couple of the ideas to lessen it in your life is actually easy. re are some ideas:

Awareness: You know yourself, and what your weaknesses are. You know when you are at most risk with falling into sin. Simple awareness should keep you on your toes at the atmosphere around you.

It's A Choice: We inevitably chose to sin. Not too often are you forced to sin, I know work issues sometimes make it impossible not to. But if that is true, you can address it at work and stop.

Cease & Desist: Just be strong once and for all and stop all the evil you clearly know that is in your life, the evil you so chose to do. It could be talking about others, saying things that aren't true, over-eating way too much, and so much more. We all know our own weaknesses.

Run: Yes you read that correctly, RUN. If you know a certain place, or certain people, or certain situations; literally walk you down the wide path of sin, and you know the end result is always a certain sin, RUN. Run away as fast as you possibly can, and never look back. In scripture Jesus spoke about following Him and what we are to do, "Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62, that scripture fits in this situation perfectly with your flee from sin. No longer even glance back at that sin you detest and wish to get out of your life.

Build Walls: No these aren't real walls. These are protective walls, walls that separate you from the evil you are trying so hard to avoid. A wall can be, "Instead of going to that store or mall alone where you may go to that certain store or buy a magazine; from now on when you go, bring your kids, or a spouse or parent." This wall blocks you from doing or buying something you will regret later.

Today's Gospel: John 5:1-16 (The Healing at The Pool)
"After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethesda, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed. One man was there, who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, he said to him, "Do you want to be healed?" The sick man answered him, "Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled, and while I am going another steps down before me." Jesus said to him, "Rise, take up your pallet, and walk." And at once the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, "It is the Sabbath, it is not lawful for you to carry your pallet." But he answered them, "The man who healed me said to me, `Take up your pallet, and walk.'" They asked him, "Who is the man who said to you, `Take up your pallet, and walk'?" Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, "See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse befall you." The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. And this was why the Jews persecuted Jesus, because he did this on the Sabbath."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Do you really know what sin is and how it offends God?
-How does the Holy Spirit within you feel when you sin?
-How often do you go to confession? Weekly? Monthly?
-What techniques of choice do you in preventing sin in your life?
(Today, offer to help out a good friend; ideas, yard cleaning
shopping, moving furniture, mowing lawn, whatever
.)


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries

1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus

Monday, April 4, 2011

In Faith - Surrender to God

Beads of Joy 04-04-11

In Faith - Surrender To God

©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

This incredible story, is all about the bold faith, of a man seeking out Jesus to heal his son. This high ranking officer had to travel some twenty miles to find Jesus, he was very determined. The buses and trains were out that day, so you can only imagine how long a trip that was. :))) This man didn't worry about his pride, and he most certain didn't care about the ridicule. Upon meeting with Jesus, Jesus knew this mans sincerity and faith; and by our Lord's grace, He sent him home, to a son who was healed at the exact moment he asked Jesus. This mans actions showed all that he surrendered from everything to only seek out Jesus, nothing else mattered. How determined are we when we seek out Jesus? Do we go to whatever we need to to find Him and be with Him?

Do you have courage like this official? Don't be scared, rather be more scared if you should avoid Jesus now, to avoid ridicule now. You should instead not be concerned with the ridicule of these days, and you should be only focusing on the Joy and Glory of the days to come. Our life today is more about proper preparation for tomorrow, then it is actually about this very day. See because we don't know when we shall die, bad choices without repentance, could end in some serious results. Why would anyone risk that? Hell is a hot place, where God is forever out of your life; do not risk losing Heaven with Jesus.

Let us really consider fully surrendering to our Lord. I know many of you may think I am way over the top. But that's ok. I know I am, and I love it. At times I really wish I didn't have to sleep, so I can pray and work on helping others more. I dare you to be so loyal to Jesus, that all you think about around the clock is Jesus. Your life will never be the same if you seriously take on this challenge. Also time spent before the Blessed Sacrament is a wonderful to adore Him. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, everything and all things Jesus.

Definition: Jesus Freak: The phrase originally was applied to those involved in the Jesus movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s, within the context of the freak scene of that era. However, some Christians now consider it a reclaimed word, as Christians, especially Christian youth, occasionally use it today as a positive term to let others know that they are not ashamed of their belief in Jesus.

I sometimes get called Jesus Freak, more so in the past. There is much more respect now from the regulars who know me well enough. I love the title. At least there isn't any question about what it is I share and live and breathe. The real question to the person asking that. If I am a Jesus Freak, what kind of a freak are you??

Today's Gospel: John 4:43-54 (Jesus Heals an Officials Son)
"After the two days he departed to Galilee. For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast, for they too had gone to the feast. So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill. When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and begged him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. Jesus therefore said to him, "Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe." The official said to him, "Sir, come down before my child dies." Jesus said to him, "Go; your son will live." The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went his way. As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was living. So he asked them the hour when he began to mend, and they said to him, "Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him." The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, "Your son will live"; and he himself believed, and all his household. This was now the second sign that Jesus did when he had come from Judea to Galilee."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Could you really truly fully surrender completely to Jesus?
-What stops you from completely surrendering to Him?
-Do you realize the benefits of completely surrendering?
-Are you clinging to something that will keep you from Jesus?
-Would you willing surrender your earthly desires for Jesus?
(Find out when your church or any other local church has,
Eucharistic Adoration. Spend time with Jesus
.)
Try to make this a monthly commitment.


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Blind Men See God's Light

Beads of Joy 04-03-11

Blind Men See God's Light
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

Spiritual blindness? I think this is an aliment that has spread across the globe. Many people are unfortunately very spiritually blind. You say, "What is spiritual blindness?" It's simply an inability to see and know God, and His Son. I know many people like this. Yes they claim to believe in God, but when you speak to them, you never see or feel the light of Jesus in their words. Instead they use science and technology as to their understanding of things, giving God the back seat credit of, "oh well yes, God had something to do with that." There is a huge difference between knowing Jesus and being in a relationship with Jesus. Anyone can simply know someone, or of someone. There is a huge difference when you really know someone personally, and they are part of your daily life. Like Fr. Larry Richards would say, "You can tell me, Father, your mother doesn't exist. I will tell you, yes my mother does exist. And you would say, Father how do you know your mother exists? Because I have a relationship with my mother, believe me when I say, I know my mother exists."

It is that relationship that brings to life that person. Our eyes are completely open when we know, that we know, we know someone. For those who are blind, sometimes all they need is a hand to hold, to help lead them to the Father. We are all on this magnificent journey together, selfishness and pride are not part of this journey. Let us do all we can to help lead and direct those people we know are blind. They could be blind from an addiction, from a simple lack of knowing Jesus, or even something as simple as a lack of faith. We are each others siblings in God's family; so as sisters and brothers let us watch each others back and help one another. How bright is the simple light that we each shine individually because of Jesus? St Francis of Assisi said it this way, "All the darkness in the world can't extinguish the light from a single candle." Let us be that single candle if we need to.

To give you an idea of how powerful and strong and everlasting "light" can be, check this out. How fast does light travel? You'd be shocked that the speed of light is one of the fasted things that travel throughout the universe. Nothing can even come close. God has designed "light" to be everlasting, and with an ability to reach far away places almost immediately. See the speed of light is 186,282.4 miles per second, WOW. You do the math, that's 11,176,944 per hour. Alrighty then, I guess that changes the meaning of what Warp Speed is. lol. Warp speed is suppose to mean, that it travels faster then the speed of light. Maybe on Star Trek, but not here; at this point and time in history and technology, we can not do that, our spacecrafts would disintegrate. A simpler explanation is this, it takes 8 minutes for light to reach the earth from the sun. The suns distance from the earth obviously fluctuates, but on average we are about 93 million miles away from the sun. Anything else taking eight minutes to travel 93 million miles wouldn't survive the trip. But in God's infinite wisdom, it is only "light" that can travel that fast, that far, and in the end it creates warmth, light and visibility for direction, and it completely takes away the darkness. Well God's Light is beyond warp speed, and His light goes straight into our hearts, our mind and our soul.

Today's Gospel: John 9:1-41
(Jesus Healing A Blind Man & Questions)

"As he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him. We must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." As he said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man's eyes with the clay, saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing. The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar, said, "Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?" Some said, "It is he"; others said, "No, but he is like him." He said, "I am the man." They said to him, "Then how were your eyes opened?" He answered, "The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, `Go to Siloam and wash'; so I went and washed and received my sight." They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I do not know. They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. The Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see." Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?" There was a division among them. So they again said to the blind man, "What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a prophet. The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight, and asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?" His parents answered, "We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself." His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if any one should confess him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, "He is of age, ask him. So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, "Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner." He answered, "Whether he is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, now I see." They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" He answered them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you too want to become his disciples?" And they reviled him, saying, "You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from." The man answered, "Why, this is a marvel! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if any one is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him. Never since the world began has it been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing." They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?" And they cast him out. Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, "Do you believe in the Son of man?" He answered, "And who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" Jesus said to him, "You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you." He said, "Lord, I believe"; and he worshiped him. Jesus said, "For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind." Some of the Pharisees near him heard this, and they said to him, "Are we also blind?" Jesus said to them, "If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, `We see,' your guilt remains."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Do you feel that your vision maybe impaired in anyway?
-Can we be spiritual blind, and not physically blind?
-Doesn't your sin blur your vision, from seeing Jesus?
-How do you protect your vision from being blurred?
-Have you been to confession at all through Lent?
(Spoil a family member or close friend today, not with
gifts of this world, but rather a coffee and some Jesus
.)
Look out for people's faith when you can, help them.


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation

Saturday, April 2, 2011

God Is - A Merciful God

Beads of Joy 04-02-11

God Is - A Merciful God
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

Sadly enough, we can not save ourselves, no matter how we act or what we say, it can't be done by ourselves. And unfortunately think about this; if we brag about how wonderful and nice and good we are, that would be the sin of pride filled with much arrogance. Like the Tax Collector, we need to be humble before God's altar. God isn't looking for boastful, prideful, pat themselves on the back people. I know I don't have a list of God's requirements in front of me; but we do know our Lord expects us to honor and praise Him, not ourselves. And our attitude needs to be that of an unworthy servant, because the reality is; no matter how much of a pious life we life; no matter how many times we go to Mass or confession, we are still unworthy, period.

This parable needs to bring into the light, the way we must really be before God. In other words; our heads should be bowed down, not able to look upon the altar out of guilt of our human frailties; remember we are born into sin. We are only worthy because of Jesus' blood, it's nothing we do, or can do that makes us worthy before God. All the "works" of the proud Pharisee meant nothing before God. Especially even more so, since he was so pridefully telling God, while looking down upon the tax collector. When this Pharisee does this, the first thing I think of is Matthew 7:1-5, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

Just take a look at these wonderful scriptures that help guide us:

"This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me?" Exodus 10:3

"Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them." Daniel 10:12

"For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." Romans 12:3

Today's Gospel: Luke 18:9-14
(The Parable of The Pharisee and The Tax Collector)
"He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, `God, be merciful to me a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-How should we be praying to God?
-Humility, is the only way to approach God? why or why not?
-Can we justify our pride, or own own righteousness?
-Is seeking God recommended in all things?
(Humble Pie, ever hear of that? Let us always
be humble before God. Open up to God
.)
Today beg God for direction and mercy.


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple

Friday, April 1, 2011

First - Love The Lord

Beads of Joy 04-01-11

First - Love The Lord
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO

Hello Everyone,

I'm not sure what part of this scripture you like, but my favorite part is, "love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength" That just says it all and it essence sums up the reality of how we should be spending our lives. A love like this is really beyond human understanding to some degree. We need to be "consumed" by our thoughts of Jesus, never seeking our own. Let us seriously use this Lenten Season to toughen up and be more loyal and devoted to Jesus; like never before.

With all your heart: Love Jesus more than anyone else in a way like no one else. He deserves every piece of love you can give Him. He died for each of us, to save us. He paid for all our sin in full.

With all your soul: Allow your soul (the Holy Spirit) to seek Him out. Fully embracing Him. There is a part inside each of us, that is specifically made for Him, Allow Him to consume you.

With all your mind: 24/7/365, I know that may sound over the top, but personally I love it. Do not let a day or en event, or anything go by, without having God, our Lord on your mind.

With all your strength: Never allow anyone to sway you away from God, BE BOLD !!!! That says it all, stop backing off, don't be scared. Let's follow Jesus' lead and boldly proclaim the Father.

Today's Gospel: Mark 12:28-34 (The First Commandment)
"And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, "Which commandment is the first of all?" Jesus answered, "The first is, `Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.' The second is this, `You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." And the scribe said to him, "You are right, Teacher; you have truly said that he is one, and there is no other but he; and to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And after that no one dared to ask him any question."

Questions To Ponder Today:
-Is Jesus really first in our lives?
-And are our neighbors (others) really second?
-Why must we love God, why do think so?
-Do you spend time everyday, keeping God first?
(Commit to some time before the Eucharist,
today is First Friday and tomorrow is First Saturday
)
Eucharistic Adoration, one day a month to start.


Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO

Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries

1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus