The Pharisees Foolishness

BEADS OF JOY 10-11-16

“The Pharisees Foolishness”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 11:37-41 (The Pharisees Foolishness)
“While he was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him; so he went in and sat at table. The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner. And the Lord said to him, "Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of extortion and wickedness. You fools! Did not he who made the outside make the inside also? But give for alms those things which are within; and behold, everything is clean for you.”

Reflection:
Where is it more important to be clean outside or inside our bodies? Yes, while the outside is very important, the inside by what it represents, is even more important. Inside of us we all have a mind and a heart and a soul; if that is filthy and dirty and unclean, is it not that more offensive than unclean hands? Jesus was teaching the Pharisees a lesson, possibly deliberate in its intention; but very helpful to all who can learn by reading the scriptures. There is such evil that comes from an unclean heart, such as greed, pride, bitterness, envy and even arrogance.

Jesus asks of us to give alms from “those things which are within”; if we keep our insides clean and pure and focused on God we will have love and mercy and compassion. Our hearts will be filled with so much love that we will always put others first and we will have a sincere willingness to help others. We must allow Almighty God to transform us, cleanse us and guide us to keep our mind and our hearts and our spirit clean.

What is the best method to this cleanliness? Daily prayer! Mass often! Confession often! Adoration! Bible study! Fellowship! There is so much, but you get the general idea. Some enjoy prayer more than bible study, while others enjoy adoration more than the rosary. We all have preferences in devotion, that’s fine, the point is that we spend time with Jesus, Mary and Prayer in some form each day. The more “good” we put in the cleaner and purer our mind and our heart and our spirit will be. If you fill a cup with garbage, you can only pour out of it garbage. But if you fill it with pure clean water, you will pour out, pure clean water. The answer is simple, more time with Jesus every single day, His influence and His friendship will make you a much better, cleaner person, inside and out. I am always praying for all of you. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Tuesday: We pray the Sorrowful Mysteries:

The Sorrowful Mysteries

1^. Agony on the Garden (Sorrow for sin) –Matt 26:36-46
2^. Scourging at the Pillar (Purity) –Mark 15:1-16
3^. Crowning with Thorns (Moral Courage) –Matt 27:27-31
4^. Carrying of the Cross (Patience) –Mark 15:20-22
5^. The Crucifixion (Perseverance) –Luke 23:33-46

Thank you Lord for loving us so much…

Rosary Man Jim’s Sorrowful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-sorrowful-mysteries_11.html

Demand For A Sign

BEADS OF JOY 10-10-16

“Demand For A Sign”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 11:29-32 (Demand For A Sign)
“When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. The men of Nineveh will arise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here.”

Reflection:
Why does this foolish generation demand a sign of who Jesus is? Jesus and the Holy Spirit has given us sign after sign after sign, that He is the Christ! The One who was foretold in the Old Testament, countless times. The One Gabriel the Angel spoke to Mary about. The One the three wise men followed the star to see. The One John The Baptist foretold. The One Simeon told Mary about at the Temple. There have been so many prophetic signs throughout Jesus’ time and throughout scripture about who Jesus was and is if only the people of that generation and this generation would open their eyes, their ears and their hearts. Read, listen and learn, then they would know who Jesus is. He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. He came to pay the price (the ransom) for our sins, so that we may all live. God the Father, chose His only Begotten Son to pay the price for us, because of His unquestionable, unceasing love for us.

In my studies I found that throughout the Old Testament it has been said in several places that Jesus is spoken of prophetically in scripture more than 300 times. Biblical scholars suggest this. And this is thousands of years before Jesus’ birth. It would be impossible for me to list all of them now and I know my blog has a tendency to stay rather short so that many will read. So I give you homework my dear sisters and brothers. Due diligence this incredible fun task and google (old testament scripture prophecies of Jesus) you will be thrilled and amazed at the results: 833,000 results. Obviously not all of what you are looking for. But the first two pages will serve well for your own personal study.

My suggestion: Bible study needs to be a huge part of who we are in our relationship with Jesus. Great Bible Study starts with a fantastic Bible Resource. I use Bible Gateway and I have been for many many years for my own personal Bible Study. I think you to will enjoy all its features. Check them out. I gain nothing, by your use of the webpage. I only hope and pray that you gain a closer and more vibrant knowledgeable relationship with our Lord.

Bible Gateway https://www.biblegateway.com

My greatest prayer is that you fall in love with scripture. I mean really fall in love with God’s Word like never before. So much so that you have to always have your bible with you wherever you! Even sneak it in so it is with you, so it is with you always! And, you always have to spend time reading scripture every single day! You never seem to feel like you have read enough today and you want to read and learn more! Your love for scripture comes to life in what you do and say and think so much so that the Bible becomes your absolute most favorite book of all! You eventually dive into what is called (click to my blog>>) “Lectio Divina” and really enjoy scripture at wonderful blessed levels that words can’t describe. That is my greatest prayer for you! See you all tomorrow. Well, at least I will chat with you.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Monday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation (Humility) – Luke 1:26-28
2. The Visitation (Love of Neighbor) – Luke 1:39-45
3. The Birth of Jesus (Poverty of Spirit) – Luke 2:1-20
4. The Presentation (Purity of Mind and Spirit) – Luke 2:22-38
5. Finding in The Temple (Obedience) –Luke 2:41-50

I simply love mornings, because every morning begins with the Rosary.

Rosary Man Jim’s Joyful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-joyful-mysteries_10.html

Cleansing of The Ten Lepers

BEADS OF JOY 10-09-16

“Cleansing of The Ten Lepers”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel:Luke 17:11-19 (Cleansing of The Ten Lepers)
“On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."

Reflection:
How grateful have we been to God, who has been merciful and loving to us without any reason for his unconditional love, except that He really loves us? Do we recognize His love and mercy in our lives? How has God’s abundant love blessed us in ways that we notice each day, but fail to give thanks? Those are just a few thoughts to get the Wells of Joy cranking inside our heads and our hearts. We have so much to be thankful for. Jesus immediately recognizes the Samaritans gratefulness and He also takes notice of the others who didn’t take a moment to give thanks. We must always be thankful. Live a life of Gratitude, that’s the best attitude. You appreciate life so much more.

Our lives should be simple, they shouldn’t be so complicated or selfish or so wrapped up in “things” that we have no time to be grateful for those for are generous and kind to us. This life goes by us, so fast. We should slow down and take some time to smell the roses and visit the hospitals and reach out to those who have been so kind to us. When we are on our death if we are so lucky (yes lucky), some people just die; but if you are on your death bed, let’s not have any regrets only joy and thanksgiving in preparing to unite with Jesus. A death bed can be a good place. I see it as God’s way of giving us, just a little bit of time to say good-bye, to say I love you, to say I appreciate all you have done for me. Those final moments many people don’t usual get.

OK, no more, Grim Reaper stuff. LOL. It’s must be because it’s October? Anyhow. Living a life of gratitude changes everything (try it); especially when you start to appreciate everything and everyone in your life. This attitude gives you a whole new perspective on life, a new refreshing, bright, joyful way to see each day. A new refreshing, bright, joyful way to see others. And best of all, you really see how wonderful and glorious our Lord is in your life; because the entire world around you becomes brighter and more joyful for you. As soon as your eyes open in the morning; you become grateful that our Lord has allowed another day for you to enjoy. You have a whole new appreciation for your life and that is a great way to live; it takes away and eliminates selfishness and empty conceit. You become a happier, more joyful person to be with. I hope this reflection fills your heart with Joy and Happiness and you now have a new refreshing way to see how wonderful life can be. Till tomorrow. Keep Smiling and Thanking God.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Sunday: We pray the Glorious Mysteries:

The Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection (Faith) –Mark 16:1-8
2. The Ascension (Hope) –Luke 24:50-53
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Love) –Acts 2:1-4
4. The Assumption of Our Lady
(Grace of a Happy Death) –Rev 12:1-6
5. The Coronation of Mary (Mary’s intercession) –Judith 15:9-10

Glory and Honor and Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ!

Rosary Man Jim's Glorious Reflections: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-glorious-mysteries.html

Truly Blessed Are They

BEADS OF JOY 10-08-16

“Truly Blessed Are They”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 11:27-28 (Truly Blessed Are They)
“As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!" But he said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"

Reflection:
Do you know that our very goal in this life should be the very reason why God created us in the first place; and that is to be united with Him… -for all eternity in Heaven. Do you hunger for God in your life? Do you really hunger to have Him as an interrogate part of all you do? All the choices you make? Everything! The who in your life or in scripture or in your faith do you look to; as an example of one who gave of their life entirely to God? To His Will? To even the on-slaughter of criticism and even death for some? We have the Saints! We have the Apostles! We have the Blessed Mother! Some of those Saints are from our time, some are from throughout history.

Who do I look to? There are many, but I immediately think of Paul the Apostle, an amazing gifted man; I will speak of him shorty. But first, more candidly I think of Mary, our Lord’s Mother, our Blessed Mother. Right from the start of her conversation with the angel Gabriel she said, “I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) No hesitation, I love that! Mary simply, very devoutly believed in God. PERIOD! That is pure faith, if I could have 1% of that incredible deep unquestionable faith my life would be most blessed. Mary stayed by Jesus’ side through it all, knowing in her heart that He had to do this. But this hurt her deeply as His Mother. I can’t imagine the pain of a Mother seeing her Son on a journey; be loved by everyone, then hated and beaten almost to death, and then take up His Cross to His Death. Mary was a very strong woman, strong because of her faith and her understanding that God’s Will and God’s hand was in all that was happening; and she simply trusted everything in the midst of her tears. Pray the Rosary every day to get close to our Lady. I do!

Now Paul the Apostle had a problem, he was a horrible speaker. I am so THRILLED that he was! Why do you ask? If Paul was a GREAT speaker we wouldn’t have the 23% of the New Testament that he wrote. He had the gift of his faith come through in his writings. Where would the Letters to the Corinthians be? They wouldn’t be! What about Romans? Galatians? Paul’s life and journey and commitment to Jesus was unquestionable. His faith was BOLD. Study his life, learn of his journey you will see exactly what I mean. My faith has become Bolder because of the example I have seen in Paul The Apostle.

Remember what Jesus has said today my sisters and brothers, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” See you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Saturday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation (Humility) – Luke 1:26-28
2. The Visitation (Love of Neighbor) – Luke 1:39-45
3. The Birth of Jesus (Poverty of Spirit) – Luke 2:1-20
4. The Presentation (Purity of Mind and Spirit) – Luke 2:22-38
5. Finding in The Temple (Obedience) –Luke 2:41-50

I simply love Saturday mornings, because Saturday like every other day of the week -it begins with the Rosary.

Rosary Man Jim’s Joyful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-joyful-mysteries_10.html

A House Divided

BEADS OF JOY 10-07-16

“A House Divided”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 11:15-26 (A House Divided)
“But some of them said, "He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons"; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore, they shall be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace; but when one stronger than he assails him and overcomes him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted, and divides his spoil. He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters. "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he passes through waterless places seeking rest; and finding none he says, `I will return to my house from which I came.' And when he comes he finds it swept and put in order. Then he goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.”

Reflection:
If true FREEDOM is what you seek, then your house must be in order and Jesus must be the King and Lord of your Home. We must not disobey the Lord; Jesus makes it very clear that there is no “neutral zone” in this world when it comes to our faith. Yes, I slipped in a trekkie word there. After all Jesus and our Father are from the Heavens, so why not. You guys know me, I sometimes run off the grid. Please smile. Thank you! Let us do our best to never live in a divided house of faith. We must all stand strong together in faith and trust and love in Jesus Christ. For He alone is our Lord, He died for us, so that we may live and spend all eternity with Him and the Father in Heaven.

How do you live your life? Do you feel there is a void in your life? Do you seek ways to fill that void? Jesus wants us to fill all vacancies with Him Alone, His Word, His Love, All Things Jesus!! Be consumed by our Lord! I have learned these past 33-years that if you really love Jesus, which I do; you can’t help but be completely consumed by thoughts of Him, the Father, our Lady, Scripture and the Rosary - 24/7/365. Maybe that’s just me, I don’t know, but I doubt it’s only me. I really have virtually no other interests that don’t somehow tie into my faith. And if they don’t, then I make sure Mass and believers are part of my fellowship time, enjoying what I enjoy. I am very serious about staying very focused in my faith. I have been since the Spring of 1983.

Today I encourage you to rearrange your life so that The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit have a dominate place in your life; along with the Mass, Adoration, Confession, our Blessed Mother, The Rosary, Scripture and Prayer. You get the idea! Turn over a new leaf! Wipe the slate clean! Eat a couple of slices of Pizza! Opps? I don’t know how that got in there. LOL!! Well, you get the general idea of what I am saying is: Keep it simple, keep it fun, keep smiling and keep it fully focused on Jesus. Believe me when I say your life will never ever be the same again. You will begin to always find the silver lining in every single dark cloud. You will find a smile amongst every group of tears. You will giggle when you most need it. Our Lord will shake your heart full of His Joy exactly and preciously when you need it most. Nobody does it better than Jesus. Nobody loves you more than He does. Keep strong in your faith my sisters and brothers, I am praying for you always. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Friday: We pray the Sorrowful Mysteries:

The Sorrowful Mysteries

1^. Agony on the Garden (Sorrow for sin) –Matt 26:36-46
2^. Scourging at the Pillar (Purity) –Mark 15:1-16
3^. Crowning with Thorns (Moral Courage) –Matt 27:27-31
4^. Carrying of the Cross (Patience) –Mark 15:20-22
5^. The Crucifixion (Perseverance) –Luke 23:33-46

Thank you Lord for loving us so much…

Rosary Man Jim’s Sorrowful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-sorrowful-mysteries_11.html

FRIDAY’S
I share this meditation I wrote back in 2010. Here I share my own personal insight and experience, as I journey with our Lady from station to station.

Many Franciscan groups around the world use this for their own group gathering while they meditate the Stations with our Lady. http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2010/03/marys-way-of-cross.html It is unique and emotionally very moving as you move from station to station… From my heart to yours.

The Persistent Friend

BEADS OF JOY 10-06-16

“The Persistent Friend”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 11:5-13 (The Persistent Friend)
“And he said to them, "Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, `Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; and he will answer from within, `Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything'? I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him whatever he needs. And I tell you, Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Reflection:
This is a hard teaching, unless of cause you are a very generous person. And I mean seriously very generous and patient one to. In today’s gospel this friend came and woke up his neighbor and friend up at midnight and asked him for three loaves of bread. WOW!! You have got to be really good friends with someone to be banging on their door at midnight to ask for 3 loaves of bread. If this friend is your friend, do you fulfill his request or do you tell him to go away? Think for a second before you answer. In-fact, think about what St Augustine of Hippo reminds us, “God, who does not sleep and who awakens us from sleep that we may ask, gives much more graciously.” The Lord is always ready to give, never ever holding back on us.

Open your hearts and your lives my dear sisters and brothers. Don’t ever close your doors on each other, don’t ignore one another when each other is in need. The real rule of hospitality and generosity is to be ready to give what others need when you are able to do so. God alone will judge their motives. Obviously common sense and direction by other sisters and brothers who already have helped that person or family is a great start. We are all family in the Family of God. Let us always unite and be there for one another. Shutting the door and saying no is not the Godly way of treating a fellow human being in any situation. Step to the plate, find out how you can help, or at least find out how you can help direct them to the proper help they may need if you can’t personally help them. Sometimes those in need simply need; others who simply care. That is all.

When a person or a family is struggling they sometimes feel lowly and terrible. It’s a very difficult feeling to fully put into words. It’s more complicated than one simple word or phrase. It’s worse than shame. We have been there. For the longest time we didn’t even have anyone come close to our side and really comfort us on a personal level. We were like poison for some reason. I understand it better now; seeing things hinge sight brings everything into perspective. We were needy and always in need of something (ok everything); though many wanted to help, most didn’t and most didn’t know how, so they avoided us to avoid the topic of discomfort that they felt! But little did they realize how uncomfortable we felt and the pain that we were suffering. Please everyone when you know someone who is in need, help them, quietly, anonymously, secretly, just help them. Please!! People, families who are under tremendous stress, cry many tears, pray many prayers, believe me when I say all this. We still have our challenges, but we have angels now in our lives. God is good. Be someone’s angel. Be someone’s answered prayer. Help someone stop crying so much. We all must do our part. See you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Thursday: We pray the Luminous Mysteries:

The Luminous Mysteries

1. The Baptism of Jesus (Matt 3:13-17)
2. Wedding Feast of Cana (John 2:1-12)
3. Proclamation of the Kingdom of God (Mark 1:15)
4. The Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-13)
5. Institution of the Holy Eucharist (Matt 26:17-30)


Glory and Honor and Praise -Lord Jesus Christ!!

Rosary Man Jim's Luminous Reflections: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-luminous-mysteries.html

Lord, Teach Us To Pray

BEADS OF JOY 10-05-16

“Lord, Teach Us To Pray”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 11:1-4 (Lord, Teach Us To Pray)
“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
He said to them, “When you pray, say:

“‘Father,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come.
Give us each day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
    for we also forgive everyone
who sins against us.
And lead us not into temptation.’”

Reflection:
Wow! Have you ever thought about what the “Our Father” aka “The Lord’s Prayer” is actually teaching us, telling us, showing us how we should pray? Seriously, if we embrace this simple prayer alone and pray it faithfully every single day and mean it with all our hearts; we will become better followers of the Lord and indeed better people in our society. Think about it. Pray the Our Father the way you know it, very slowly and very deliberately meaning every single word. Embrace this prayer as a “prayer” not as something we all had to learn in Catechism aka CCD. We can use a cheat sheet, a teleprompter when it comes to prayer. Yes, eventually when you are comfortable, simple conversation is prayer also; but the Lord’s Prayer is the diamond in the rough. From the heart of God to Jesus’ lips to our hearts.

In this prayer, we approach God as Father with love and respect and reverse. We acknowledge He is in Heaven, that He sent us Jesus. We pray, that His Will will be done on earth and in Heaven. We give each day in prayer. We forgive others as God forgives us. And we ask, not to be led into any temptation. It’s truly thee absolute perfect prayer. Obviously the best, because Jesus himself gave it directly to the disciples and to us. We must learn to embrace this prayer not as a recording and simply by mimicking the words because we know all them; but we need to digest the words into our spirit and our lives and bring these words to life in our actions.

How confidently do you pray? Do I pray? Does any of us pray? When the disciple asked Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray.” I just know Jesus was thrilled to hear a question, a brilliant question come from one of His disciples. Just as any teacher loves to have questions asked by their students in their classroom; so does Jesus love to know His own disciples are listening and desire more answers and insight to His teachings. I know there are many teachers who read this blog. I’m no teacher by no means, except to my own children; but I can relate to the interaction of someone listening enough to ask a question to continue the conversation about the topic you are covering and that means a lot. Yes, it means they are listening and they are interested. May all of you have a blessed Wednesday. See you tomorrow.

EXCELLENT VIDEO

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Wednesday: We pray the Glorious Mysteries:

The Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection (Faith) –Mark 16:1-8
2. The Ascension (Hope) –Luke 24:50-53
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Love) –Acts 2:1-4
4. The Assumption of Our Lady
(Grace of a Happy Death) –Rev 12:1-6
5. The Coronation of Mary (Mary’s intercession) –Judith 15:9-10

Glory and Honor and Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ!

Rosary Man Jim's Glorious Reflections: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-glorious-mysteries.html

St. Francis of Assisi…

BEADS OF JOY 10-04-16

“St. Francis of Assisi…”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Back on June 13, 2008 I was professed a Secular Franciscan. Now let me take you back about 18 month or so prior to that, which is late 2005, early 2006. I was on a quest to find something in my life to help me deepen my spiritual life. At the time I was already attending daily Mass, going to Bible study and working hard building the Rosary Ministry (writing and making rosary every day). So I referred to the Diocese webpage and I came across several organizations of interest. Please keep in mind I wasn’t looking to just join a group, I wanted to join a “commitment” an order basically. I was looking for one that a lay person with 5 kids can easily join. So I did my research on each of the ones I found. The back story of all of this is, way back in 1983 I had a desire to be a Priest or a Dad. Obviously a “Dad” won, but deep in my heart, that desire for deep spiritual commitment is still very strong.

In my research, Secular Franciscan was a near perfect fit. I thought by what I was learning about St. Francis that in many ways I was already a “Franciscan”. I knew somehow God had His mighty hand in all of this. I felt led and then I felt welcomed when I found and met the group, to which I began my Franciscan journey with. At the time we were under-going much turmoil in our family. I was let go from a few different jobs and my employment status became a major issue. At the same time, we had 5 kids home, all in school and most days if I wasn’t asking for help at different Churches and at the Salvation Army I was looking for work. I did take on several jobs along the way. We had several bad things happen through those years, a bad business deal, my inability to find a company who would keep me on without laying me off, it was not an easy road by any means. 

But through the smoke and dust of suffering I had Jesus at Mass every single day and I faithfully went to Adoration every single week. All this while working low paying jobs, anything I could find I took. We had hungry growing kids at home. I knew my place and my responsibility. No one individually, initially at the time stepped to the plate to help us and I didn’t ask or beg for help. Even though so many knew what was going on in our lives at the time. Then my Franciscan journey began, the 18 months of teaching and discernment turned out to be the 18 months of blessing and change our family so desperately needed. It’s all through my faith my sisters and brothers, I never ever gave up, even in the bleakest of times. My long time very dear friend Jack McElligott found out through my other longtime friend Ray Proulx of our plight. Jack immediately called me, Jack is a very spiritual man, we use to talk for hours on the phone. I mean like 3-4 hours a clip. Well he came to our rescue till he put me through school, helped me get my CDL-A license and he felt certain that we were ok. There is more to his story in our lives and me more specifically; but I won’t share that today. Did you know? In this year of 2016 I celebrate 8 years being a Secular Franciscan.

Today’s Thoughts: Why am I, a Secular Franciscan? I thought it be wonderful to share why I love being a Franciscan. So why is being a Franciscan such a perfect fit in my life? St. Francis detached himself basically from everything connecting him to this world; and the worldly pleasures and enjoyments of this world. That’s all me! St. Francis gave and gives everything he possesses away to others. That’s all me! St. Francis loves our Blessed Mother so deeply. That, you know is all me! St. Francis’ life is all about devotion and love and deep faith and trust in Jesus; there is no doubt that that is how I have always lived my life. 

When I learned about St. Francis I really knew this man (Saint) was someone I could so easily relate to. Way back then I wrote a letter (Essay) to my eventual Fraternity answering the question, why I felt I should be a Franciscan. I don’t recall the exact question. I remember it being very long and very detailed. I remember it was so exciting to write and so exciting taking that huge step closer to my profession. I took the last few months of study over the road in an 18-wheeler studying online, communicating with Al (my dear Franciscan brother) online. I miss my Fraternity a great deal, they won’t let me relocate. LOL! They say I will return! So we will see. 

Rule of The Franciscan Order: Chpt 2.9 “The Virgin Mary, humble servant of the Lord, was open to His every word and call. She was embraced by Francis with indescribable love and declared the protectress and advocate of his family. The Secular Franciscans should express their ardent love for her by imitating her complete self-giving and by praying earnestly and confidently.”

My Fraternity:

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today I share the Franciscan Crown Rosary…

How to Pray The Franciscan Crown Rosary

1. Using beads for the Franciscan Crown (seven decades), announce the First Mystery and pray the Our Father on the single bead just before the medallion.

2. Pray one Hail Mary for each of the ten beads. (It seems most fitting to proceed around the beads in a clockwise direction.)

3. On the single bead between the decades, announce the next Mystery and then pray the Our Father. Continue as in Step 2 for the remaining Mysteries.

4. After the last Mystery, pray one Hail Mary each on the fourth and third beads from the Cross to complete 72 years of Mary’s Joy.

5. Pray the Our Father and the Glory to the Father (Gloria Patri) for the intention of the Holy Father on the 2nd bead from the Cross.

6. Pray a Hail Mary on the single bead closest to you.

The Seven Joys of Mary

1. The Annunciation (Luke 1:26–38 & Isaiah 7:10-14)
May I become your humble servant, Lord.

2. The Visitation (Luke 1:39–45, 56)
Grant us true love of neighbor, Lord

3. The Nativity (Luke 2:1–7 & Matthew 2:1-12)
Give us true poverty of spirit, Lord.

4. The Adoration by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–2, 9b–11)
Help me obey all just laws.

5. The Finding of Our Lord in the Temple (Luke 2:41–51)
May I never lose you through serious sin, Lord.

6. The Resurrection (Luke 24:1–8 & Mark 16:1-8)
May we share your glory, Lord.

7. The Assumption (Judith 13:18 and Revelation 12:1; 21:1-6 and John 11:17-27)
Mary, may we share your crown of eternal life.

According to Franciscan tradition the Seven Joys of Our Lady are recited throughout the year. However, in recent years, some substitute the Seven Sorrows of Mary during penitential seasons.

To better understand all this go to the blog I wrote all about The Crown Rosary that includes a VIDEO that you can use to Pray The Crown Rosary: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-franciscan-crown-rosary.html

Go And Do Likewise

BEADS OF JOY 10-03-16

“Go And Do Likewise”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 10:25-37 (Go And Do Likewise)
“And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, "Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" He said to him, "What is written in the law? How do you read?" And he answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." And he said to him, "You have answered right; do this, and you will live." But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, `Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.' Which of these three, do you think, proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?" He said, "The one who showed mercy on him." And Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

Reflection:
We must be just like this good Samaritan in today’s gospel. Are you ready to lay down your life, offer up your treasures and even your time and love for your neighbor? WAIT! WHAT? Yep, this is part of the deal, read your contract, there’s no fine print. Just playing with you. LOL. On a serious note: When we embrace the Cross and follow Jesus and suffer for His sake; we include the fact that we are willing to lay down our lives for our neighbor, out of love and concern for them. And yes “neighbor” means all those people we could be kind to. They don’t have to necessarily live next door to us. We must be ready at all times to do good for our neighbor for their sake; just like God is always good to us. Being compassionate is very self-giving and most loving to those suffering.

Jesus not only taught us what true love was, He showed us by dying and rising on the Cross. There is no reason why we can’t have compassion and love for our fellow children of God. Not only will this help bring world-peace should we all agree upon this loving way of life; but think of how we could help end the suffering of so many who are forgotten. It bothers me when I hear of those who died on the street, or died alone at home because no one even checked in on them. How sad and how lonely that must be. Today I challenge everyone to reach out to your “neighbor” your “relative” your “friend” and see how they are doing!

Believe me when I say, you do not have to be a millionaire to care and bring hope and joy to those suffering. If I have learned anything through all our suffering (the past 6 years) it’s this. Those who have been the greatest most helpful and most compassionate to us, have been those with very little. It’s been the poorer of those we know who have helped us the most. Chrissy’s cancer and my strokes have made life a challenge for us and nearly made us homeless. Especially after my neurologist took me out of work for my safety (serious health issues). For several months (about 10) 12-18 people who cared separately sent us the means we needed to pay our bills (rent, utilities) and keep food on our table. Yes, I begged every day. But it was the little checks and the $5 bills wrapped in envelopes that brought hope and love into our home. We know who the “Good Samaritans” are! Those who stopped on the side of the road and helped us, they didn’t pass us, ignore us, seen we were suffering and did nothing. Instead they poured out their love and helped us. We are eternally grateful. That’s why when I say I love you guys, I really do. See y’all tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Monday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation (Humility) – Luke 1:26-28
2. The Visitation (Love of Neighbor) – Luke 1:39-45
3. The Birth of Jesus (Poverty of Spirit) – Luke 2:1-20
4. The Presentation (Purity of Mind and Spirit) – Luke 2:22-38
5. Finding in The Temple (Obedience) –Luke 2:41-50

I simply love mornings, because every morning begins with the Rosary.

Rosary Man Jim’s Joyful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-joyful-mysteries_10.html

Lord, Increase Our Faith

BEADS OF JOY 10-02-16

“Lord, Increase Our Faith”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 17:5-10 (Lord, “Increase Our Faith!”)
“The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" And the Lord said, "If you had faith as a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this sycamore tree, `Be rooted up, and be planted in the sea,' and it would obey you." 
"Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table'? Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink'? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'"

Reflection:
Does your love for God compel you to give your best? How strong is your faith? Do you give the Lord your best, regardless of the cost? Are you as generous in your love for Almighty God as He is as generous in loving you? There is much to think about. But the real truth is we do not have to complicate this at all; it’s really very simple. God created us in love to love us and He fills our hearts with His love; loving Him back should be so simple, after all we are all made in His likeness.

“There is a place in the human heart no doctor will find, no x-ray will show, no medical science professor can explain; but that place is a place that only Jesus can reside in, when that place remains vacant too long, a human heart remains lonely, lost and feels like they are always missing something. ONLY Jesus can fill that empty place. ONLY Jesus can fill that heart with the love it is missing. ONLY Jesus!” ~me

I know many of you understand exactly what I am talking about. Some people try to fill that empty place with other things, bad habits, other stuff, thinking it will quench the hunger they so desperately desire. But you know as well as I do that they continue to go on feeling that hunger. Many have died with a bottle in their hand or a needle in their arm seeking a way to fill this open empty place inside of them. Well, truth be known, only God’s love through the blood of Jesus will you ever be able to fill that empty place so perfectly. He so perfectly fills that empty lonely place that you will find that every single day there is an overflow that allows you to share and share and share and you will never ever ever never ever run out. WOW, I meant all that, no matter how much of a run on sentence that was. LOL. Jesus promises to fill our cup and fill our cup and fill our cup so much, that your desire to share Him will come naturally. This is why I so easily share Him so much.

If there’s one thing I have learned through my observations of those who share Jesus, our Lady and The Rosary is this: Those who share tremendously, understand that they have been given a “wealth” of love that must be shared in order for it to grow. Each of my 5 “Spiritual Superheroes” possess that quality. When we think of wealth, many think of hardcore cash. Well, pure wealth that it has eternal value is worth more than all the cash and gold the world has to offer. If Jesus resides in your heart and He has filled your cup to overflowing capacity that overflows constantly; you my sisters and brothers have been given a most blessed gift. You are more than billionaires beyond your wildest dreams. Jesus has given you something money can NOT buy. Our Lord’s love is free, but we must be humble and loving in return to Him. Our love for Jesus and others must be pure and real. We must always put others needs before our own. There are things we will do automatically when Jesus resides inside our hearts. For starters our love will be genuine and real and Jesus will begin to shine through us. I hope and pray that today’s reflection was an inspiration; and that you appreciate the love God has for you and you have for Him in a whole new way. Enjoy the Lord’s Day my friends. See you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Sunday: We pray the Glorious Mysteries:

The Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection (Faith) –Mark 16:1-8
2. The Ascension (Hope) –Luke 24:50-53
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Love) –Acts 2:1-4
4. The Assumption of Our Lady
(Grace of a Happy Death) –Rev 12:1-6
5. The Coronation of Mary (Mary’s intercession) –Judith 15:9-10

Rosary Man Jim's Glorious Reflections: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-glorious-mysteries.html

Nothing Shall Hurt You

BEADS OF JOY 10-01-16

“Nothing Shall Hurt You”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 10:17-24 (Nothing Shall Hurt You)
“The seventy [two] returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!" And he said to them, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." Then turning to the disciples he said privately, "Blessed are the eyes which see what you see! For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it."

Reflection:
Yes, it is true that we have been given the spiritual authority and power to overcome evil. Through God’s Word and Jesus’ Name we can overcome any evil. Our faith in Jesus, by Jesus, through Jesus we can overcome the power any evil that tries to overcome us. Look at this scripture I found in my research:

“I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father.  I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.” ~1 John 2:13-14

But what does Jesus’ prayer warns us against? There is a warning against pride, self-centered sinful pride. It is pride that closes our mind against God’s truth and wisdom. We can’t forget what happened to Lucifer when he let pride rule his life; he could no longer serve God, but rather wished to be equal with God. Humility must be our remedy against pride and we must be 100% fully dependent upon Almighty God in all things. What is it that we could possibly seek here on earth that which is in Heaven? How about our names written in the Lambs Book of Life? I know that’s kind of King James style, but it’s worded so perfect.

In my research this morning I found something I just had to share. “Just as pride is the root of every sin and evil inclination, so humility is the only soil in which the grace of God can take root.” Very Powerful!! It is God who opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. We MUST seek to be like Jesus and it is through our humility and only through our humility that we will find Him. A simple, humble heart, longing to be with Him, is what He so desires in us. Do you seek Jesus that way? Keep in your heart the words of St. Augustine, “God loves each of us as if there were only one of us to love.” I love that! And we have the ability to love Him the exact same way back, for there is only One True God to love. And through Jesus we see God. My sisters and brothers I come here each day in the hopes that your faith is deepened and that your love for Jesus is stronger. I am here faithfully each day sharing our Lord, because of my love for Him and for you. I will return tomorrow with more to share. Till then may your Saturday be Blessed.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Saturday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation (Humility) – Luke 1:26-28
2. The Visitation (Love of Neighbor) – Luke 1:39-45
3. The Birth of Jesus (Poverty of Spirit) – Luke 2:1-20
4. The Presentation (Purity of Mind and Spirit) – Luke 2:22-38
5. Finding in The Temple (Obedience) –Luke 2:41-50

I simply love Saturday mornings, because Saturday like every other day of the week -begins with the Rosary.

Rosary Man Jim’s Joyful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-joyful-mysteries_10.html