Beads of Joy 01-31-10
We Are Nothing Without God
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
How sad it really is for those who either do not believe in God, or who consciously decides they will never believe in God. The madness in this world is in many ways doing all it can to mislead and misguide many into the pit of fire. They only desire to undermine every ones eternity in Heaven. There have even been some so called scientific studies which I have read that say "mankind" is a descendant of aliens. The world can't even prove that Aliens even exist, yet they are quick to say what they have, so they can discount God. If that's not a ludicrous crazy reach to get as far away from God, then I don't know what is. It's really sad.
Scripture needs to be our guide. We are so fortunate to have a God who loves us so much, that He left us what we need to follow Him - His Word. Here are two very powerful scriptures; "The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name - He will teach you everything and remind you all that I told you." John 14:26 and Jesus further teaches, "Whoever remains in me and I in Him will bear much fruit, because without me you do nothing." John 15:5 There is no doubt that life here on earth has no value without God. For we are the children of God, isn't that so exciting to know that the God of the universe is our Father. The very first verse of the entire bible states, "In the beginning, when God created the Heavens and the earth;" Genesis 1:1 There is only one God, and that one God is our Father. To further confirm this magnificent truth let us look at John 1:1, "In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God."
Even though this world desires to discredit, destroy and remove the bible; it has remained to be thee single most read and studied book of all times. It also has been the most quoted and distributed worldwide book ever. Please take the time to embrace this magnificent book, so many of us have one, but we don't spend enough time inside its pages. We are really nothing without God; once we really understand the power in that statement I think then we will see and know that our lives are only complete with Him. Our worshiping God should include: reading, studying, teaching and preaching the word. "Be eager to present yourself as acceptable to God, a workman who causes no disgrace, imparting the word of truth without deviation." 2 Timothy 2:15
The kingdom that God has for us, is for His children, for those who are just, for they shall inherit the kingdom of God. "Do you not know that the unjust will not inherit the kingdom of God?" 1 Corinthians 6:9 Just take a look at the Beatitudes, so many verses help guide us to the Father. Also who else do you want with you?, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31 God is our Father, let us cry out to Him, "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a spirit of adoption , through which we cry, Abba, Father!" Romans 14:15 I simply love scripture, back in 1983 when my entire world changed and my spirit found Jesus; I read the entire bible cover to cover, I've done that about 3 times in the past 27 years. I tell you this to say that from that experience I wrote a Complete Bible Directory, which I copyrighted, for no purpose. It was just so much fun to do, a select few people in my life back then watched me on the old typewriter typing all those pages. Technology wasn't what it is today. My love for scripture through the years has only deepened. I invite you to find God in His word so that He can find Him in you.
Discover the generosity and love God has for you in His word.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Some Fun Amazing Facts about the Bible:
-There are about 170,000 Bibles distributed each day in the U.S.
-The Bible is now available in 2,233 languages.
-Christianity is the world's most widespread religion (1.7 billion Christians).
-The Bible was originally written in 3 languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
-The Bible is also the world's most shoplifted book in the world. (odd hey)
-In 1454, the Bible was the first book ever printed. Life Magazine called this the single most important event of the second millennium.
-The last word in the Bible is AMEN.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Even Wind and Sea Obey
Beads of Joy 01-30-10
Even Wind and Sea Obey
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
What an absolutely memorable day this must have been for the disciples. With the power of His word, "the wind ceased and there was great calm." V.39. Today we are reading Mark 4:35-41 (The Calming of the Storm). What I found in today's study was an obvious contrast between "the sleeping Prophet - Jesus" and "the fleeing Prophet - Jonah". It has been noted in my research that the disciples saying "Lord, Lord, save us" awoke Jesus at their cry and need and want to be saved; reflects our cry for Jesus when we are in the storms of life. In direct response to their cry Jesus came and rescued them with just His words.
That is so powerful, but so true to the actual simplicity of our faith. It really is that simple, we speak His name, and He responded to us with His word, and we are saved. Obviously it's a bit more than that, but that is indeed one of the key components to the core of our faith. We turn to Him, He turns to us, He gives us Himself, His word, and the Holy Spirit, nothing else is needed to create "the calm" we need in our lives. What was really interesting in this research was the interpretation of the sea and the wind. In scripture the sea is seen as a symbol of the restlessness of this sinful world we live in. I have come across a couple of scriptures that help in that reflection on how the sea is indeed represented in scripture as a place where sin and restlessness symbolically occur. Jonah was trying to escape God's will for him, and with Jesus the disciples faith was being tested. Those scriptures are: Daniel 7:2 and Isaiah 57:20
I will be the first to admit I am not a sea worthy person. LOL. In fact I am the exact opposite, I am a land-lover not wanting my feet off the solid ground, I'm not even comfortable in an airplane. I was on a flight about two months after 9-11, going to St Louis, MO and with all that went on during that time I admit I was scared to death. LOL. See my cousin Michael D'Esposito was in the first tower that went down, that was very sad. Sorry if I got side tracked, I'm not being wimpish with the height thing or the sea thing.. LOL. What I am saying is that I can only imagine the fear the disciples must have felt when the fury of a storm hit them; scripture says, "A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that is was filling up." v.37. Can you imagine, a boat full of people, filling with water in a violent storm. It must have been so hard even with such faith; that is why the disciples cried out to Him to save them.
In this world as sinners, we are rocked by the winds and sea of our sins and passions that engulf us up at times. Like the disciples we cry, "Lord, save me." And immediately (figuratively speaking) with His word, He saves us. I know it don't always seem like He immediately saves us, we must trust in Him. Sometimes our Lord has a special plan for us, and the timing isn't what we think it to be. We must trust that in all good things, there is a time. Sometimes we need to have other experiences in our lives, in order for us to be prepared for the wonderful plans He has for us. Always trust in Him and stay loyal to Him, He will always be there for you. Always keep your spiritual eyes open, and you will see things you've never seen before. You will be amazed and filled with so much joy.
All things in this world are subject to obeying God's word.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Even Wind and Sea Obey
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
What an absolutely memorable day this must have been for the disciples. With the power of His word, "the wind ceased and there was great calm." V.39. Today we are reading Mark 4:35-41 (The Calming of the Storm). What I found in today's study was an obvious contrast between "the sleeping Prophet - Jesus" and "the fleeing Prophet - Jonah". It has been noted in my research that the disciples saying "Lord, Lord, save us" awoke Jesus at their cry and need and want to be saved; reflects our cry for Jesus when we are in the storms of life. In direct response to their cry Jesus came and rescued them with just His words.
That is so powerful, but so true to the actual simplicity of our faith. It really is that simple, we speak His name, and He responded to us with His word, and we are saved. Obviously it's a bit more than that, but that is indeed one of the key components to the core of our faith. We turn to Him, He turns to us, He gives us Himself, His word, and the Holy Spirit, nothing else is needed to create "the calm" we need in our lives. What was really interesting in this research was the interpretation of the sea and the wind. In scripture the sea is seen as a symbol of the restlessness of this sinful world we live in. I have come across a couple of scriptures that help in that reflection on how the sea is indeed represented in scripture as a place where sin and restlessness symbolically occur. Jonah was trying to escape God's will for him, and with Jesus the disciples faith was being tested. Those scriptures are: Daniel 7:2 and Isaiah 57:20
I will be the first to admit I am not a sea worthy person. LOL. In fact I am the exact opposite, I am a land-lover not wanting my feet off the solid ground, I'm not even comfortable in an airplane. I was on a flight about two months after 9-11, going to St Louis, MO and with all that went on during that time I admit I was scared to death. LOL. See my cousin Michael D'Esposito was in the first tower that went down, that was very sad. Sorry if I got side tracked, I'm not being wimpish with the height thing or the sea thing.. LOL. What I am saying is that I can only imagine the fear the disciples must have felt when the fury of a storm hit them; scripture says, "A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that is was filling up." v.37. Can you imagine, a boat full of people, filling with water in a violent storm. It must have been so hard even with such faith; that is why the disciples cried out to Him to save them.
In this world as sinners, we are rocked by the winds and sea of our sins and passions that engulf us up at times. Like the disciples we cry, "Lord, save me." And immediately (figuratively speaking) with His word, He saves us. I know it don't always seem like He immediately saves us, we must trust in Him. Sometimes our Lord has a special plan for us, and the timing isn't what we think it to be. We must trust that in all good things, there is a time. Sometimes we need to have other experiences in our lives, in order for us to be prepared for the wonderful plans He has for us. Always trust in Him and stay loyal to Him, He will always be there for you. Always keep your spiritual eyes open, and you will see things you've never seen before. You will be amazed and filled with so much joy.
All things in this world are subject to obeying God's word.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Friday, January 29, 2010
A Tiny Grain of Mustard Seed
Beads of Joy 01-29-10
A Tiny Grain of Mustard Seed
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
A mustard seed? It is one of the tinniest of seeds, yet it produces a large shrub for the birds to come nest in. We must realize that no matter how tiny or small something is it can still contain life inside it, and when fully grown it can provide shelter and comfort for others. Today's gospel is a very powerful dual parable, Mark 4:26-34 (The Parable of the Growing Seed & The Parable of the Mustard Seed) In today's gospel we can see how a tiny mustard seed has the ability with good soil to grow into a large shrub. The most fantastic thing about the life of a seed, is that it very quietly, very continually grows, and the growing starts from within the seed itself. Just like we grow from within in our spirit, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Our faith can be looked at like that, no matter how insignificantly small we might think it to be, there is life within it. By further nurturing our faith with bible study, prayer, adoration, fellowship and so much more, in time it will grow. As it grows we really want it to grow in quality not quantity, if that makes sense. We need to keep ourselves on track spiritually. Staying in the word, attending Mass, going to confession; let's really work at refining and building our faith so that God may use us for His glory. He wants us to be open to Him, ready to give Him whatever it is He needs. We need to allow Him to change us, transform us with His grace and power.
Inside all of us we have been given the power through the Holy Spirit to transform ourselves into a vessel for God. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2. Powerful, scripture is like a nutrient that a root seeks out to nourish the rest of the tree. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13. It is in scripture that we find and understand what it is God so desires for us in this life. Trusting in Him is the first step to being able to be open to Him.
It is Jesus who has sowed His seed in our hearts, "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves;" 2 Corinthians 4:7. We have no power alone within ourselves to be like Jesus, we must first trust in the power of the Holy Spirit that God has given us. Our faith is based on a relationship, that relationship will flourish and grow. Do we believe that the power of the Holy Spirit will work it's will with us and transform us? Prayer is a great first step, speak to Jesus, ask Him for guidance, patience and understanding. He will so willingly be there to help guide you to His heart.
The tinniest faith one has is more than enough for Jesus to work with.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
A Tiny Grain of Mustard Seed
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
A mustard seed? It is one of the tinniest of seeds, yet it produces a large shrub for the birds to come nest in. We must realize that no matter how tiny or small something is it can still contain life inside it, and when fully grown it can provide shelter and comfort for others. Today's gospel is a very powerful dual parable, Mark 4:26-34 (The Parable of the Growing Seed & The Parable of the Mustard Seed) In today's gospel we can see how a tiny mustard seed has the ability with good soil to grow into a large shrub. The most fantastic thing about the life of a seed, is that it very quietly, very continually grows, and the growing starts from within the seed itself. Just like we grow from within in our spirit, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Our faith can be looked at like that, no matter how insignificantly small we might think it to be, there is life within it. By further nurturing our faith with bible study, prayer, adoration, fellowship and so much more, in time it will grow. As it grows we really want it to grow in quality not quantity, if that makes sense. We need to keep ourselves on track spiritually. Staying in the word, attending Mass, going to confession; let's really work at refining and building our faith so that God may use us for His glory. He wants us to be open to Him, ready to give Him whatever it is He needs. We need to allow Him to change us, transform us with His grace and power.
Inside all of us we have been given the power through the Holy Spirit to transform ourselves into a vessel for God. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2. Powerful, scripture is like a nutrient that a root seeks out to nourish the rest of the tree. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13. It is in scripture that we find and understand what it is God so desires for us in this life. Trusting in Him is the first step to being able to be open to Him.
It is Jesus who has sowed His seed in our hearts, "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves;" 2 Corinthians 4:7. We have no power alone within ourselves to be like Jesus, we must first trust in the power of the Holy Spirit that God has given us. Our faith is based on a relationship, that relationship will flourish and grow. Do we believe that the power of the Holy Spirit will work it's will with us and transform us? Prayer is a great first step, speak to Jesus, ask Him for guidance, patience and understanding. He will so willingly be there to help guide you to His heart.
The tinniest faith one has is more than enough for Jesus to work with.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Do Not Be Seduced By The World
Beads of Joy 01-28-10
Do Not Be Seduced By The World
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
My Friends,
This is far more serious then I think many realize. Satan has the ability to seduce to us, trick us, mislead us and then devour us. We need to stay attentive to what is going on around us at all times. Let us just think about this for a moment; if I were to tell you that a specific car or bus was destined to be in a horrific accident and you will be amongst the dead if you are in that vehicle, would you knowingly get into that vehicle, put your seat-belt on and ride it anyway? Of cause not! It's just like our lives in this world, if we remain seat-belted to it, it will end in a horrific accident and we will be amongst the dead. Sometimes we need to just trust our instincts, and run the other way. Look at Matthew 7:13, ""Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it."
But Thank God we have our bible, and the Holy Spirit and Godly brothers and sisters to help guide us along the way. We are also very fortunate to have a list to go by, it's not the most complete list, but it's a very helpful outline that should and could help save our lives one day. The list I am referring to is, The Seven Deadly Sins. Not only will they make you unclean before God, but if we are entangled in them at our death, we will for all eternity pay the ultimate price. Each sin in it's own way has the innate ability to find a way into our lives. The Seven Deadly Sins are: Pride, Envy, Gluttony, Lust, Anger, Greed, and Sloth. Some of these may sound too severe for us to be involved, but that's the trickery of the enemy. It's the subtlety of our scurrying around the edge that will be our undoing. Satan need not drag us into the lions den, he just wants us to lean next to cage and peak in; there we are thinking we are safe, then "wham" the lion strikes us down through the bars. And you are dead.
I was in Des Moines, Iowa about three years ago for a couple of weeks training at TMC (it's a truck company), and the trainer made a very insightful observation of a students arrogance and pride. This student thought he was in control and he had all the driving skills he needed to be the best, no matter what the situation was, or where he had to drive. So in the wisdom of the teacher he asked this student a question: "How close to a cliff can you get and still have control of your truck?" In this drivers pride and of cause arrogance he said, "half an inch, easily, maybe closer". Immediately the teacher turned to a student he knew was wiser and smarter and asked him the same question. Do you know what answer that student gave? He said, "I'd stay as far away from that cliff as I can, knowing the possible disastrous outcome, why take the chance." The teacher then told the arrogant student, "I wouldn't trust being in your truck with you, you run the risk of killing both of us."
Pride is the main component here that always seems to underline the other sins and seductions that entangle us, making us think we are in control. "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." Proverbs 11:12 We must trust in God and make decisions that draw us closer to Jesus, and further away from danger. Why run the risk of eternal damnation all for the thrill of worldly gain? I find no gain in the things of this world. "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does comes not from the Father but from the world." 1 John 2:15-16 We can use the things of this world for God's glory, but let's not allow them to embrace us and engulf us.
The world will seduce you, then at deaths cry it will abandon you.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Do Not Be Seduced By The World
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
My Friends,
This is far more serious then I think many realize. Satan has the ability to seduce to us, trick us, mislead us and then devour us. We need to stay attentive to what is going on around us at all times. Let us just think about this for a moment; if I were to tell you that a specific car or bus was destined to be in a horrific accident and you will be amongst the dead if you are in that vehicle, would you knowingly get into that vehicle, put your seat-belt on and ride it anyway? Of cause not! It's just like our lives in this world, if we remain seat-belted to it, it will end in a horrific accident and we will be amongst the dead. Sometimes we need to just trust our instincts, and run the other way. Look at Matthew 7:13, ""Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it."
But Thank God we have our bible, and the Holy Spirit and Godly brothers and sisters to help guide us along the way. We are also very fortunate to have a list to go by, it's not the most complete list, but it's a very helpful outline that should and could help save our lives one day. The list I am referring to is, The Seven Deadly Sins. Not only will they make you unclean before God, but if we are entangled in them at our death, we will for all eternity pay the ultimate price. Each sin in it's own way has the innate ability to find a way into our lives. The Seven Deadly Sins are: Pride, Envy, Gluttony, Lust, Anger, Greed, and Sloth. Some of these may sound too severe for us to be involved, but that's the trickery of the enemy. It's the subtlety of our scurrying around the edge that will be our undoing. Satan need not drag us into the lions den, he just wants us to lean next to cage and peak in; there we are thinking we are safe, then "wham" the lion strikes us down through the bars. And you are dead.
I was in Des Moines, Iowa about three years ago for a couple of weeks training at TMC (it's a truck company), and the trainer made a very insightful observation of a students arrogance and pride. This student thought he was in control and he had all the driving skills he needed to be the best, no matter what the situation was, or where he had to drive. So in the wisdom of the teacher he asked this student a question: "How close to a cliff can you get and still have control of your truck?" In this drivers pride and of cause arrogance he said, "half an inch, easily, maybe closer". Immediately the teacher turned to a student he knew was wiser and smarter and asked him the same question. Do you know what answer that student gave? He said, "I'd stay as far away from that cliff as I can, knowing the possible disastrous outcome, why take the chance." The teacher then told the arrogant student, "I wouldn't trust being in your truck with you, you run the risk of killing both of us."
Pride is the main component here that always seems to underline the other sins and seductions that entangle us, making us think we are in control. "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." Proverbs 11:12 We must trust in God and make decisions that draw us closer to Jesus, and further away from danger. Why run the risk of eternal damnation all for the thrill of worldly gain? I find no gain in the things of this world. "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does comes not from the Father but from the world." 1 John 2:15-16 We can use the things of this world for God's glory, but let's not allow them to embrace us and engulf us.
The world will seduce you, then at deaths cry it will abandon you.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
He Went Out Sowing Seed
Beads of Joy 01-27-10
He Went Out Sowing Seed
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another exciting parable has been shared today, what an extremely joyful experience it always is in studying the parables Jesus shares with us. Today we are reading Mark 4:1-20 (The Parable of The Sower). Such brilliance and insight have been put in the most simplest of terms for all of us to understand. In this scripture Jesus also explains the true meaning of the parable. Usually we can interpret a parable and come up with a variety of very acceptable ways to understand what Jesus is telling us, but in this one, He fully explains to us exactly what He is talking about in His teaching. That is so exciting; Jesus teaches us, explains His teaching to us and we embrace the parable and move boldly forward in our walk with Him.
In this particular parable Jesus is speaking directly to the hearers of the word; while Jesus Himself is the Sower of the Word. Seeds and roots and plants why does Jesus use such imagery? A plant needs good, rich soil in order for the seed to grow with the best nutrients. And the key is in the roots. A tree needs its roots to be dug down deep into rich soil. Another aspect of these images is that if a tree isn't rooted well enough it dies. And if its nutrients don't flow up through the roots the leaves will die and the tree will not produce good fruit. There is so much wisdom in using this type of imagery. In this parable Jesus is the sower of the seeds, and we embrace those seeds into our lives. Where they fall will determine the outcome of them in us.
Let's look at a recommended scripture reflection in this study, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8. Very well explained parallel to today's reading. How else does a tree get the necessary nutrients and water in order to stay alive and be healthy. It is through God's grace that we are given the strength to live the way Jesus wants us to. It is in God's word that we learn and grow deeply in love with Him. I can't stress it enough, how important it is for you to spend time in His word everyday.
In our busy, non-stop lives of instant gratification do we hunger God's word? Do we seek out His words, and His wisdom? We to must become sowers of the word, sharing and planting seeds of love everywhere we go. We need to understand that there is purpose in all these parables and Jesus explains it fully in Matthew 13:10-17, "Then the disciples came and said to him, "Why do you speak to them in parables?" And he answered them, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah which says: `You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive. For this people's heart has grown dull, and their ears are heavy of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and turn for me to heal them.' But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it."
Embrace Jesus in His Word, learn all you can from Him. Then share that joy with others.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
He Went Out Sowing Seed
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another exciting parable has been shared today, what an extremely joyful experience it always is in studying the parables Jesus shares with us. Today we are reading Mark 4:1-20 (The Parable of The Sower). Such brilliance and insight have been put in the most simplest of terms for all of us to understand. In this scripture Jesus also explains the true meaning of the parable. Usually we can interpret a parable and come up with a variety of very acceptable ways to understand what Jesus is telling us, but in this one, He fully explains to us exactly what He is talking about in His teaching. That is so exciting; Jesus teaches us, explains His teaching to us and we embrace the parable and move boldly forward in our walk with Him.
In this particular parable Jesus is speaking directly to the hearers of the word; while Jesus Himself is the Sower of the Word. Seeds and roots and plants why does Jesus use such imagery? A plant needs good, rich soil in order for the seed to grow with the best nutrients. And the key is in the roots. A tree needs its roots to be dug down deep into rich soil. Another aspect of these images is that if a tree isn't rooted well enough it dies. And if its nutrients don't flow up through the roots the leaves will die and the tree will not produce good fruit. There is so much wisdom in using this type of imagery. In this parable Jesus is the sower of the seeds, and we embrace those seeds into our lives. Where they fall will determine the outcome of them in us.
Let's look at a recommended scripture reflection in this study, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8. Very well explained parallel to today's reading. How else does a tree get the necessary nutrients and water in order to stay alive and be healthy. It is through God's grace that we are given the strength to live the way Jesus wants us to. It is in God's word that we learn and grow deeply in love with Him. I can't stress it enough, how important it is for you to spend time in His word everyday.
In our busy, non-stop lives of instant gratification do we hunger God's word? Do we seek out His words, and His wisdom? We to must become sowers of the word, sharing and planting seeds of love everywhere we go. We need to understand that there is purpose in all these parables and Jesus explains it fully in Matthew 13:10-17, "Then the disciples came and said to him, "Why do you speak to them in parables?" And he answered them, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah which says: `You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive. For this people's heart has grown dull, and their ears are heavy of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and turn for me to heal them.' But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it."
Embrace Jesus in His Word, learn all you can from Him. Then share that joy with others.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
She Is Mary Ever-Virgin
Beads of Joy 01-26-10
She Is Mary Ever-Virgin
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
What a magnificent exciting reading we have to reflect upon today. This is the one where many try to say Mary should not be so recognized the way the Roman Catholics do. Today's scripture is Mark 3:31-35 (Jesus and His Family). In this very gospel it may appear that Jesus makes no acknowledgment of our Blessed Mother, "who are my mother and my brothers?" verse 33. Some even say this proves our Blessed Mother had other children after giving birth to Jesus. Rubbish I say.. LOL. Is it not obvious in these verses how Jesus by His example is showing us that God must come first and foremost in our lives. Just because we put "Jesus" before our own mother, that doesn't by any means mean that we don't honor, love and cherish our mother. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
Our dearest most Blessed Mother remained a virgin after giving birth to Jesus. Thought: Even though she is a virgin, she still gave birth to a Son, Jesus. Consider this scripture to help you better understand the power that Jesus bestows, "Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" John 20:26 He who entered through locked doors was not a ghost, in that scripture He told Thomas to touch Him and know that He is real. Just like that, Mary's womb became the sacred place where our Blessed Lord's tiny little body was formed. Consider her womb as an altar, a place where God's hand fashioned His Son to become human for us. A place that holds true sacred value in bringing Jesus into our world. There is no way that God would ever allow such a sacred holy place to be defiled. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
It is in her womb where we would became free, it is in her womb that our sins were forgiven, it was in her womb that joy was able to enter into the world and free us from the bondage of our sins. She truly became God's perfect vessel to bring Jesus who is prefect, into this world; no other vessel was made so holy, she had to have remained pure for in her womb the very physical body of Almighty God was made human. No other person in this whole world, ever in all of time, has ever had God made human in their womb. No other persons blood flowed through their body and God's body at once. No other person nurtured God through pregnancy and birth; no other person has ever be so physiologically connected to the God of the Universe. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
Her poverty brought much comfort to the poor. The Mother of Jesus struggled like many of us do having to take care of our own self with no outside help, no servants or handmaids were at her beck and call. Under God's protection, she was placed amongst those the world payed no mind to, the poor. She was placed amongst the very people God knew needed His love, His forgiveness, His mercy and His saving grace. She in her innocence hid any shadow of doubt that others might think Him not to be an authentic human. Also note that with Mary's blood running through Jesus' body, she indeed has connected Jesus to the ancestry of the House of David. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
It is through Mary that Jesus' humanity is guaranteed.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
She Is Mary Ever-Virgin
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
What a magnificent exciting reading we have to reflect upon today. This is the one where many try to say Mary should not be so recognized the way the Roman Catholics do. Today's scripture is Mark 3:31-35 (Jesus and His Family). In this very gospel it may appear that Jesus makes no acknowledgment of our Blessed Mother, "who are my mother and my brothers?" verse 33. Some even say this proves our Blessed Mother had other children after giving birth to Jesus. Rubbish I say.. LOL. Is it not obvious in these verses how Jesus by His example is showing us that God must come first and foremost in our lives. Just because we put "Jesus" before our own mother, that doesn't by any means mean that we don't honor, love and cherish our mother. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
Our dearest most Blessed Mother remained a virgin after giving birth to Jesus. Thought: Even though she is a virgin, she still gave birth to a Son, Jesus. Consider this scripture to help you better understand the power that Jesus bestows, "Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" John 20:26 He who entered through locked doors was not a ghost, in that scripture He told Thomas to touch Him and know that He is real. Just like that, Mary's womb became the sacred place where our Blessed Lord's tiny little body was formed. Consider her womb as an altar, a place where God's hand fashioned His Son to become human for us. A place that holds true sacred value in bringing Jesus into our world. There is no way that God would ever allow such a sacred holy place to be defiled. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
It is in her womb where we would became free, it is in her womb that our sins were forgiven, it was in her womb that joy was able to enter into the world and free us from the bondage of our sins. She truly became God's perfect vessel to bring Jesus who is prefect, into this world; no other vessel was made so holy, she had to have remained pure for in her womb the very physical body of Almighty God was made human. No other person in this whole world, ever in all of time, has ever had God made human in their womb. No other persons blood flowed through their body and God's body at once. No other person nurtured God through pregnancy and birth; no other person has ever be so physiologically connected to the God of the Universe. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
Her poverty brought much comfort to the poor. The Mother of Jesus struggled like many of us do having to take care of our own self with no outside help, no servants or handmaids were at her beck and call. Under God's protection, she was placed amongst those the world payed no mind to, the poor. She was placed amongst the very people God knew needed His love, His forgiveness, His mercy and His saving grace. She in her innocence hid any shadow of doubt that others might think Him not to be an authentic human. Also note that with Mary's blood running through Jesus' body, she indeed has connected Jesus to the ancestry of the House of David. She is Mary Ever-Virgin.
It is through Mary that Jesus' humanity is guaranteed.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Monday, January 25, 2010
Understanding The Joy
Beads of Joy 01-25-10
Understanding The Joy
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
If there's anything I have tried to accomplish or gain with all these blogs; it's the chance to really explain and share the very JOY inside of me. I have written about this before, I thought maybe I'd approach it from another angle. Now many of you know a lot of the basics. Our religion isn't at all about a "religion" it's all about a "relationship". Our faith is love. Our desire to follow our faith is all based around the love in our relationship with Jesus. It's not a faith we sin against, rather it is a person we offend and hurt when we sin. Let's first understand what JOY is, the way I see it in my own life. The center of JOY is "Others". With that being said, know that that's the center core to my JOY.
In my prayers I sincerely pray that this all makes sense, and that you to will be able to embrace JOY as I have. To start with we must have a sincere focus in our life on Jesus. That relationship must come first and foremost in our thinking and living each day. We must see Him and know Him as a person, as God, as our Savior. We must give Him thee utmost respect and love as if He were standing before us right now. This key aspect of JOY to me is so important. I also have a couple of other activities in my life to keep that flame of JOY glowing in my life. For starters I have a very rich, very alive bible study routine (habit if you will), that keeps my heart filled with JOY in the word. I also watch: The Passion, King of Kings, and The Jesus Film, over and over and over and over, to the point that I know these movies almost verbatim. Strange, maybe, but there is a purpose. I want His image alone etched in my brain and my heart, out with the bad, in with the good. And yes I cry every time at the Scourging and the Crucifixion, a true cleansing. And lastly I try my best to fellowship with many believers, so that the synergy of excitement for Him is magnified.
Those three activities are such a critical part of who I am spiritually; and they all play a role in keeping the JOY I have in my heart overflowing. In my life Jesus comes alive everyday in those three ways. In His Word, In His Image and In Fellowship honoring Him. I do all I can to incorporate all these activities as frequently as I possibly can everyday. I believe sharing Him is the greatest gift I can ever give in return as my Thank You. Nothing in this world compared to Him has any value whatsoever. Nothing! I place no value or hold on anything in this life. "For His sake I have accepted the loss of all things and I consider them so much rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him," Philippians 3:8. Another very powerful part of my life is minimal physical materialistic attachment to this world. Yes a mouthful. LOL, but another vital key to my JOY: minimal distractions.
Finally my brothers and sisters I say rejoice and praise Him in your every waking hour. When we think of our parents in our hearts, we have such JOY and we love them. Even after the thought of love has left and other thoughts flood our mind, subconsciously we continue to love them. That special connection of never "not" loving needs to remain in us with our love for Jesus. Embracing Him as if He were standing right here, right now is so important. Allow the power of the Holy Spirit to have Him become so alive in your heart, that your soul can't contain the overflowing JOY it'll produce. "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27. Others !!! Must come first, not only in fellowship but in mercy and love. Here is the order: Jesus always first, Others always second, You always last. JOY
Allow the JOY of Jesus to overflow your heart and soul.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Understanding The Joy
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
If there's anything I have tried to accomplish or gain with all these blogs; it's the chance to really explain and share the very JOY inside of me. I have written about this before, I thought maybe I'd approach it from another angle. Now many of you know a lot of the basics. Our religion isn't at all about a "religion" it's all about a "relationship". Our faith is love. Our desire to follow our faith is all based around the love in our relationship with Jesus. It's not a faith we sin against, rather it is a person we offend and hurt when we sin. Let's first understand what JOY is, the way I see it in my own life. The center of JOY is "Others". With that being said, know that that's the center core to my JOY.
In my prayers I sincerely pray that this all makes sense, and that you to will be able to embrace JOY as I have. To start with we must have a sincere focus in our life on Jesus. That relationship must come first and foremost in our thinking and living each day. We must see Him and know Him as a person, as God, as our Savior. We must give Him thee utmost respect and love as if He were standing before us right now. This key aspect of JOY to me is so important. I also have a couple of other activities in my life to keep that flame of JOY glowing in my life. For starters I have a very rich, very alive bible study routine (habit if you will), that keeps my heart filled with JOY in the word. I also watch: The Passion, King of Kings, and The Jesus Film, over and over and over and over, to the point that I know these movies almost verbatim. Strange, maybe, but there is a purpose. I want His image alone etched in my brain and my heart, out with the bad, in with the good. And yes I cry every time at the Scourging and the Crucifixion, a true cleansing. And lastly I try my best to fellowship with many believers, so that the synergy of excitement for Him is magnified.
Those three activities are such a critical part of who I am spiritually; and they all play a role in keeping the JOY I have in my heart overflowing. In my life Jesus comes alive everyday in those three ways. In His Word, In His Image and In Fellowship honoring Him. I do all I can to incorporate all these activities as frequently as I possibly can everyday. I believe sharing Him is the greatest gift I can ever give in return as my Thank You. Nothing in this world compared to Him has any value whatsoever. Nothing! I place no value or hold on anything in this life. "For His sake I have accepted the loss of all things and I consider them so much rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him," Philippians 3:8. Another very powerful part of my life is minimal physical materialistic attachment to this world. Yes a mouthful. LOL, but another vital key to my JOY: minimal distractions.
Finally my brothers and sisters I say rejoice and praise Him in your every waking hour. When we think of our parents in our hearts, we have such JOY and we love them. Even after the thought of love has left and other thoughts flood our mind, subconsciously we continue to love them. That special connection of never "not" loving needs to remain in us with our love for Jesus. Embracing Him as if He were standing right here, right now is so important. Allow the power of the Holy Spirit to have Him become so alive in your heart, that your soul can't contain the overflowing JOY it'll produce. "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27. Others !!! Must come first, not only in fellowship but in mercy and love. Here is the order: Jesus always first, Others always second, You always last. JOY
Allow the JOY of Jesus to overflow your heart and soul.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Anger in America
Beads of Joy 01-24-10
Anger In America
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
As promised a very personal blog, one that I hope you maybe able to gain from for yourself. The anger I speak of personally I have shared with many people in person through the past year and a half. What I have found is that the anger I personally deal with in my heart; is also tainting the hearts of many Americans. What was really an eye opener was while in confession, confessing this very sin I had a conversation with Father; he said that this particular sin is one that is most commonly confessed right now, more so than ever before. That's not a good thing, but just knowing that, it's good to know that I am not alone.
My political rant started back in mid-2008, so this has been a very long ride. But this past week has been filled with much hope and a glimmer of light has appeared. Tuesday was the day that the tides have changed due to the elections in Massachusetts. I was excited when Virginia and New Jersey results made their political points, but this one in Massachusetts was the biggie, "Kennedy's seat", NO, it's the "People's Seat". How arrogant are these politicians, are they kidding us. I've never given up on us Americans getting our America back, but seeing so many in control only seeking to destroy what so many have died for, angers me. It's just that this very hard left Marxist agenda is destroying all we believe in. Our freedoms are the best in the entire world; I would rather die fighting to keep them, then to surrender to a bunch of bullies in Washington. See what I mean.
I think of all the generations that will follow us, my kids, your kids, the many grand kids who haven't even been born yet. We must do whatever we can to keep the cherished freedoms we have, so that they to can have them. I realize my anger runs away from me and it turns into rage at times. But I keep working on it, and I beg for forgiveness from our Lord. He knows my intention is never violent, rather it is peaceful anger at the fact that we could loose all of it. I often think of the anger our Lord had in the temple with the money changers. His anger was directed at keeping God's house holy, and not to turn it into a den of thieves. As I don't want to see our government turn our nations capital into a den of thieves, that not only steals the tax dollars from the tax payer to buy a vote; or use our tax dollars to kill babies. Abortion is another topic that infuriates me, and this administration embraces the murder of the innocent.
I see it very much that way. Our president and many of those following and writing out this crazy agenda; have no regard for the history of our country, and the bloodshed that has been poured out protecting it. So you now see how my passion for our American Freedom is a big deal to me in my life, and the lives of those generations to follow. It's not easy staying focused through all this, with staying away from anger. So many people feel just like I do. One thing I have concluded through all this for almost two years now is that; my personal prayer life and my relationship with our Blessed Mother has helped me a great deal with managing all my anger. I'm sure many can relate to this blog.
Never lose hope, we are Americans. We are determined to never lose our freedom.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Anger In America
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
As promised a very personal blog, one that I hope you maybe able to gain from for yourself. The anger I speak of personally I have shared with many people in person through the past year and a half. What I have found is that the anger I personally deal with in my heart; is also tainting the hearts of many Americans. What was really an eye opener was while in confession, confessing this very sin I had a conversation with Father; he said that this particular sin is one that is most commonly confessed right now, more so than ever before. That's not a good thing, but just knowing that, it's good to know that I am not alone.
My political rant started back in mid-2008, so this has been a very long ride. But this past week has been filled with much hope and a glimmer of light has appeared. Tuesday was the day that the tides have changed due to the elections in Massachusetts. I was excited when Virginia and New Jersey results made their political points, but this one in Massachusetts was the biggie, "Kennedy's seat", NO, it's the "People's Seat". How arrogant are these politicians, are they kidding us. I've never given up on us Americans getting our America back, but seeing so many in control only seeking to destroy what so many have died for, angers me. It's just that this very hard left Marxist agenda is destroying all we believe in. Our freedoms are the best in the entire world; I would rather die fighting to keep them, then to surrender to a bunch of bullies in Washington. See what I mean.
I think of all the generations that will follow us, my kids, your kids, the many grand kids who haven't even been born yet. We must do whatever we can to keep the cherished freedoms we have, so that they to can have them. I realize my anger runs away from me and it turns into rage at times. But I keep working on it, and I beg for forgiveness from our Lord. He knows my intention is never violent, rather it is peaceful anger at the fact that we could loose all of it. I often think of the anger our Lord had in the temple with the money changers. His anger was directed at keeping God's house holy, and not to turn it into a den of thieves. As I don't want to see our government turn our nations capital into a den of thieves, that not only steals the tax dollars from the tax payer to buy a vote; or use our tax dollars to kill babies. Abortion is another topic that infuriates me, and this administration embraces the murder of the innocent.
I see it very much that way. Our president and many of those following and writing out this crazy agenda; have no regard for the history of our country, and the bloodshed that has been poured out protecting it. So you now see how my passion for our American Freedom is a big deal to me in my life, and the lives of those generations to follow. It's not easy staying focused through all this, with staying away from anger. So many people feel just like I do. One thing I have concluded through all this for almost two years now is that; my personal prayer life and my relationship with our Blessed Mother has helped me a great deal with managing all my anger. I'm sure many can relate to this blog.
Never lose hope, we are Americans. We are determined to never lose our freedom.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Habit Is Overcome By Habit
Beads of Joy 01-23-10
Habit is Overcome By Habit
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
How does one deal with bad habits? Some habits are indeed really bad. Some are bad for our health, some are bad for the health of those around us. Some bad habits generate sin in our lives every single time we get caught up in the loop of them. Whether it be pride, selfishness, impurity, slander, all of which usually includes presumption (meaning that we'll sin now, and know we'll be forgiven later). That is a vicious sin in and of itself that one can easily fall into. How do we finally rid ourselves of a habit that just never seems to go away? Now this is going to sound to simple, but honestly it does work, I have done this. Replace an old habit that you don't want in your life and replace it with one you do want.
OK here's the blueprint that I have used to replace a habit I no longer wanted with one that I not only preferred but was also pleasing to God. For starters write out both habits, the current one needs to be written out with your sincere criticism against it condemning it, bring it into the light. Even endless hours of watching TV isn't a good habit. Now with your new habit, the one you'd prefer a habit, you need to do this (I suggest this highly, it empowers you). You need to do some research, exciting convincing research with a bunch of notes on how you can implement this habit into your life. Here's an example of a new habit I incorporated into my life many years ago: Personal Bible Study. Let's say you want to replace your old habit of this. Get yourself all wound up in looking at the varieties you have, you can do OT studies, NT, gospel, apostles, topical studies and you can write on the overall tone of the scripture, or do poetry reflections. The ideas are limitless, creating so much excitement.
What I have found also is that in time if the habit becomes stale in anyway and you feel you may drift back into your old habit; just switch it up. In other words change the angle at which you maybe approaching your habit. If you were doing bible study and six months down the road the topical study was getting stale, start by doing a chronological study of the gospels, or a study of miracles in the Old Testament and the New Testament, same with the parables, you know they are also in the Old Testament. My technique through the past three years is variety. I mix it up all the time, but you my new habit of bible study included a habit of writing everyday. I can't get bored, I am addicted now, I find such an incredible peace and an overwhelming overflow of joy every time I dig myself into a study.
So can the new habit that replaced the old one become a bad habit? LOL I say that common sense tells you, yes it can. A dear friend and my Spiritual Director once told me, "Balance is important in my Christian walk." So to that I say if your new habit becomes an addiction that has you neglecting family, work, hygiene (lol), than this habit even if it's good, isn't good. The mix recommended to me was to include family time (share your gifts), volunteer time (give away your gifts), attend daily Mass (rejuvenate your gifts), this is indeed a nice moderate mix of variety through ones life. I sure hope this was helpful.
It takes 22 days of repetition to re-establish a new habit.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Habit is Overcome By Habit
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
How does one deal with bad habits? Some habits are indeed really bad. Some are bad for our health, some are bad for the health of those around us. Some bad habits generate sin in our lives every single time we get caught up in the loop of them. Whether it be pride, selfishness, impurity, slander, all of which usually includes presumption (meaning that we'll sin now, and know we'll be forgiven later). That is a vicious sin in and of itself that one can easily fall into. How do we finally rid ourselves of a habit that just never seems to go away? Now this is going to sound to simple, but honestly it does work, I have done this. Replace an old habit that you don't want in your life and replace it with one you do want.
OK here's the blueprint that I have used to replace a habit I no longer wanted with one that I not only preferred but was also pleasing to God. For starters write out both habits, the current one needs to be written out with your sincere criticism against it condemning it, bring it into the light. Even endless hours of watching TV isn't a good habit. Now with your new habit, the one you'd prefer a habit, you need to do this (I suggest this highly, it empowers you). You need to do some research, exciting convincing research with a bunch of notes on how you can implement this habit into your life. Here's an example of a new habit I incorporated into my life many years ago: Personal Bible Study. Let's say you want to replace your old habit of this. Get yourself all wound up in looking at the varieties you have, you can do OT studies, NT, gospel, apostles, topical studies and you can write on the overall tone of the scripture, or do poetry reflections. The ideas are limitless, creating so much excitement.
What I have found also is that in time if the habit becomes stale in anyway and you feel you may drift back into your old habit; just switch it up. In other words change the angle at which you maybe approaching your habit. If you were doing bible study and six months down the road the topical study was getting stale, start by doing a chronological study of the gospels, or a study of miracles in the Old Testament and the New Testament, same with the parables, you know they are also in the Old Testament. My technique through the past three years is variety. I mix it up all the time, but you my new habit of bible study included a habit of writing everyday. I can't get bored, I am addicted now, I find such an incredible peace and an overwhelming overflow of joy every time I dig myself into a study.
So can the new habit that replaced the old one become a bad habit? LOL I say that common sense tells you, yes it can. A dear friend and my Spiritual Director once told me, "Balance is important in my Christian walk." So to that I say if your new habit becomes an addiction that has you neglecting family, work, hygiene (lol), than this habit even if it's good, isn't good. The mix recommended to me was to include family time (share your gifts), volunteer time (give away your gifts), attend daily Mass (rejuvenate your gifts), this is indeed a nice moderate mix of variety through ones life. I sure hope this was helpful.
It takes 22 days of repetition to re-establish a new habit.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Friday, January 22, 2010
My Story - 1st Time Posted Here
Beads of Joy 01-22-10
My Story - 1st Time Posted Here
©2007 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
(Originally written in 2006)
Here's how I Gave My Life and Heart to Jesus..
The Girl Scout Camp Weekend
Let's first look at the history of events that happened before I actually decided to follow Jesus. Here it was Father's Day weekend 1983, my family and my mother's Girl Scout troop went away on a camp weekend, I drove my car filled with camping supplies and my parents took their camper, it was a mini-motor home. We camped in a campground called Blueberry Hill in Port Republic, NJ, that's south Jersey near Atlantic City.
After a long weekend my parents needed some work done on their camper, so we all ended up staying through lunch and we even decided to go swimming for a while. Well once everything was done we hit the road, the Garden State Parkway was a straight run home back to Staten Island. After about an hour and a half of driving I realized I was really tired. So I was chatting with my parents on the CB and asked if they'd pull over so I can get some snacks and a soda. They said, "Are you Ok?" I replied," yes I am fine, I just need some food to keep me awake." So I grabbed some fudge stripped cookies and I think a Sprite, I got back in my car and off we were again. I stayed about 1 mile ahead of them, chatting and giving them traffic reports. My sister Patti wanted to drive with me, so we were in the front seat together and the back seat was filled literally to the top of the front seat with Girl Scout supplies, tents, equipment, literally most everything. I had a 1977 Chevy Nova coupe at the time. I had just bought this car and me and dad just painted it "1965 Chevy Bermuda Blue". I loved how this car looked. I bought it from my neighbor and friend Robert Noonan, me and dad worked on it for a couple months as I was getting ready to graduate high school.
Well not too much after that, my parents lost contact with us. I was exhausted, I had the CB on, the radio on, I was eating and drinking soda, and my sister was fast asleep next to me. I did all I can to fight sleep, but no matter what I did, with my lack of experience driving tired and the fact that we swam a couple hours ago, my body was exhausted. Well I ended up slamming into the guard rail hard, it threw my car up into the air, looking out of the windshield as we hit, we can see traffic in the local lanes passing by under us. We were in the express lanes. I remember as we hit, it woke me and my sister up and she yelled, "What's happening???" I replied, "We are in an accident". I knew I was supposed to be driving, so I knew I must have fallen asleep. This entire event happened in about a minute, but I tell you it was a very slow motion, long drawn out weird strange feeling... and here's the kicker.
As we rolled at a high speed roll, think about seeing it on TV or in a movie, it was the same way, we rolled 3 ½ times destroying my car, and camping gear was thrown all over the highway. As we were being tumbled I can only describe it like this, "a set of hands held us in the air in the car as the car rolled around us" and then when the car landed on the drivers door and slid for about 20 feet we were placed back down in the rubble. It was the most amazing feeling to be sheltered and protected in such a horrific accident.
Well as soon as everything settled I could still feel the car was still running, so I reached over and turned it off. As we emerged out of the passenger side, (note: the vehicle was lying on its side). There were so many people there helping us. We were helped out of the car and someone was cutting my battery cable to prevent a fire or explosion from the fuel. We later found out a family of EMS workers stayed behind us when they seen me swaying, the girl said to me, "we knew you were going to have an accident, we tried blowing our horn to wake you, but you didn't respond, so we stayed behind you." I looked up the highway behind us and in tears said to her, "I don't even remember that part of the road at all", and it was a curved section behind us, over an overpass.
Well within a few minutes my parents arrived and they were frantic, I later found out my mom said to my father, "Duke it the kids!!!!" They were on the local lanes side, my mother came running across traffic almost getting killed herself. My sister was lying on the ground with the EMS people looking her over; she had blood all over her body. And my left arm was all bloody. I was standing in bewilderment looking at what just happened, my first car was destroyed, all our belongings were everywhere, and I couldn't believe we were alive. My mother ran to my sister seeing all the blood and her lying she thought she was seriously hurt. Well it ended up that she had all my blood all over her, because as we went into the roll I covered and protected her from the shattering glass, and the glass fragments were in my arm. Once I was cleaned up, there was no evidence that anything had ever even happened.
Then my mother came over to me to see how I was, she said she ran to Patti first because she was on the ground and she seen me standing figuring I was OK. She and I got to chatting about what just happened, I told her, "I'm sorry, but I fell asleep." She said, "We knew something happened and we figured that this traffic was from you guys, your father and I couldn't get you on the CB." All of sudden my sister went into a rage yelling and screaming at me for speeding, and got us in an accident. I looked at her in tears and said, "What? Patti I….I fell asleep." Then she started crying and my mother was crying.
Well the highway patrol was there, an ambulance, and a tow truck were all at the scene, I have no idea when they arrived, and I don't even remember hearing the sirens at all. The police office wanted to see my driver's license, after taking it, he was in my face nose to nose, and I kept backing off. He said, "Son, were you drinking?" I was like WHAT. I said," No sir, I fell asleep" I explained to him about our long camp weekend and we were swimming just before we left.
So the ambulance took us to the local area hospital, both of us were in the same emergency room area, divided by a curtain. They cleaned us up and looked us over and said to my parents, "it a miracle these kids have no injuries at all. Your son has some very minor cuts from the glass shattering, but once cleaned up there's nothing. And your daughter is perfectly fine, all the blood was from your sons arm, she has no injuries at all." He said he was shocked by the way the EMS described the accident that we had no injuries. I hadn't revealed the part about the hands holding us yet. So we remarkably got up and walked out and left the hospital.
Once we were in my parent's camper I was in the passenger seat, I leaned out the window and yelled looking up to the sky, "Why did you save me????" I was not anger to be saved, I was angrier to believe there was a God. See at that time I was a self proclaimed atheist, I don't remember why but I knew I didn't believe. My father immediately said, "I thought you didn't believe?" I said I don't, and my mother just looked at me and smiled. I was beside myself at this point; I knew something happened here, more than just a bad accident. It was very serious accident that should have killed us both, but here we are walking away like nothing happened.
When we got home and things settled a bit I shared what I experienced through the rolling car and all the details. I think my mother at that point figured, hallelujah my son is saved. I was quick to say, I don't believe it. We were just lucky…
Some months went by and then the next chain events occurred:
My First Charismatic Prayer Meeting and I Wasn't Going
The night started out like this, I was sitting on the porch of one of neighbors with whom I use to chat about everything with. This guy, I called him "Uncle Mickey" his name was Michael Byrnes. His wife was Doris, they were an elderly couple, and none of the kids in the neighborhood liked them and they were always mean to them. Well, I liked them a lot, so through the years I found myself always hanging out with them, I always felt comforted by their kindness and openness to chat with a teenager. We use to talk about school, and girls and life and his job before he retired. He use to smoke a pipe (because of that to this day, I love the smell of a pipe, blackberry tobacco brings back so many wonderful memories) and he use to sip brandy when we talked. In fact he hid the brandy in his shed, his wife never knew, he told me. He was so cute. Years later after he died, she found it and asked me about it, I told her I knew, she smiled and we both hugged and cried. I was by his bedside in his home the day he died. My parents woke me out of a dead sleep saying, "Mrs. Byrnes wants me to come over right away, Mr. Byrnes isn't doing well." That was the saddest day in my life; that man as an angel sent to my life, he was my best friend. Well I don't want to get to side tracked, but I needed to share that.
So I was sitting on the porch at his house when this all began that night, my mother came over and asked me if I'd go with her to her prayer meeting. I looked at her in amazement and said, "No mom, I always told you I have no interest in that stuff." She looked at me and begged, "Please come with me and keep me company, your Aunt is unable to go and I don't want to go alone, I promise you don't have to do anything." So I looked at Uncle Mickey, I looked at mom, and said, "OK, you promise I don't have to do anything, and we'll sit in the back." She agreed.
Well we went to St. Patrick's Church in Richmondtown on Staten Island, it was an old beautiful church, and they had this huge cross of the Crucified Christ behind the altar, right in the center of the church. So everything went as planned, we were in the back, maybe ¾ of the way back and I had an isle seat for an easy quick exit if I wanted. But I forgot to bring reading material, so I can pass the time. So I figured and told my mother, "Guess I'll have to read some of the fiction from this bible." She smiled again, sometimes reflecting back I can see she had her hand in all of this, she must have been praying a lot.
The meeting and Mass went on and I don't seriously remember too much of what went on around me; I was reading about Noah, and then Joseph and what his brothers were doing to him. I was pretty much lost in the word. Now the end was drawing near and my mother whispered, "Stand up so we can say the Our Father." I said, "NO! We agreed I don't have to do anything." She responded," Once we're done with the Our Father we are leaving, come on its no big deal." So I got up and then realized we had to hold hands, and because I was in an isle seat , I had to go across the isle and get the others persons hand who sat on the other side placing me dead center of the isle looking straight up at the cross with my arms extended holding hands. At first I thought to myself, Wooow, how did I get myself here? So I figured, ok let's get this over with, maybe if I just recite the Our Father, this will be over all the faster. So I did "say" the Our Father looking intently at the cross.
Here it was again, another one of those slow motion experiences in my life. As my arms were out stretched looking at the cross, saying my Our Father. I had this feeling come over me. It was not a chill; believe you me, it was absolutely not the chills. On the right side of my body I felt this tingling entering my body, it moved across my body, stopped a second and then exited on the left side, once again I was beside myself not understanding what just happened. I knew that was way beyond my understanding, but I felt so at peace after it happened.
Well we got into the car, mom wanted to drop off a few friends, I said sure, I was driving. They were all chatting away and I stopped them and wanted answers and asked them about my experience. They looked at me in amazement and my mother said really fast, "How come I didn't feel that?" I laughed and said, "I have no idea what even just happen to me." I further explained and shared that I don't know why but I need to take Grandma to go see Grandpa (Eugene) at the cemetery. My mother said, "What, where did that come from?" I said, "Mom, I have no idea, but that was my first thought after I got that sensation of something passing through me. " Mind you I never knew my dad's dad at all; he died when my father was four. But I knew that that was what I had to do.
So the next day I called my Grandmother (Conchetta Dacey) and as detailed as I could I explained my experience from the night before. She was speechless in joy crying on the phone. She was so happy and so filled with joy, I was taken by it. She explained, "Jimmy, your Uncle Al always takes me to see Grandpa every week at the cemetery, but these past few weeks he has been too busy and I have been praying and praying that someone would take me, I kept telling your Grandfather, don't worry I will be there to see you, someone will take me…then you call and tell me all this. My prayers have been answered through you." I had no idea that her and my uncle use to go to the cemetery weekly. I was once again…..beside myself. I seem to do that a lot don't I when I am in bewilderment of a situation. It's funny I guess. I think the "beside myself" is a metaphor meaning that I wasn't standing alone, but rather the Holy Spirit was right there with me through those experiences.
Well she and I went to the cemetery very often after that. We ended up developing a very close bond, beyond our natural relations, she and I had a commonness that is really hard to explain, still is hard to explain after all these years. In fact it was that very experience in my life that led me to become the families historian, I felt so close to my family and my heritage now, that I desired to learn more. My Uncle Al was the Historian before me; he and I spent much time reviewing many details.
But I must tell you, my grandmother was the cutest, her broken English and her overwhelming joy made me realize that when God wants you, even if the first time He calls you, you turn away and deny Him, He will not stop till He gets you. He was persistent and He made me clearly understand that I can not live my life in complete joy without Him.
My Reflection
It been 35 years now since all that occurred in my life, and I must say, to this day, I can relive the emotional impact today like its happening for the first time. My life hasn't been the same since. I have been on many spiritual highs and in some deep valleys of challenges, but never ever have I ever turned my life away from my Lord and I will never ever deny Him. Jesus changed my life back then. I am so happy that He did.
He has filled my heart in such a way that so many of the things of this world have no meaning to me, and could never fill my heart like He does. I no longer have the emptiness that so many people have, trying to fill it with things. I cling to Jesus not the worldly society we live in. I find safety and comfort in Him; He alone is all I need. There's a saying I say and use to say a lot and still do now and then. It goes like this: "You can have all this world has to offer: its wealth; its lust, its things; all I want and desire is Jesus." And I mean that with all my heart.
Directly after that I got involved with 3 different charismatic prayer groups on Staten Island, I could not get enough of Jesus, I still feel that way today, I can't get enough of Him. Those meetings allowed me to meet and pray with some of God's most amazing people: Mother Eugena, Jerry Kelly, Carol Bulcroft, Doris, Sunny, Jackie; there are way too many people to mention, but that was our (me and my mom and then eventually me and Chrissy), normal weekly events in our life, even Jimmy 3rd as an infant use to come with us, many of us in the groups were part of all 3 groups, it was some incredible fellowship for years.
And early on, I was immediately drawn to Our Blessed Mother in St. Patrick's. She captured my heart at St. Patrick's, and I began immediately sharing to everyone there about the power of the rosary, these wonderful beads of joy and it was something everyone needed to learn about immediately. Praise You Jesus. I was a babe in spirit and on fire. Yes I am still on fire.
Now that I am speaking about "the Rosary" which for me makes me feel right at home. I adore Our Blessed Mother so much, she said "Yes", and opened the door for Jesus to capture my heart and soul. My mother's mom (Susan DePete) was very into praying her rosary. I use to spend much time over their house growing up. I use to go fishing with Grandpa a lot, then when he and I was home, I use to spend many hours just talking with Grandma, she use to tell me about her parents, her love for her sister; my Aunt Helen, and how much she loved Our Blessed Mother. She use to have a huge statue of Our Blessed Mother in her bedroom. And she use to say to me that the rosary was her favorite prayer. I still remember many of those chats; she was such a devout faithful woman. I remember at the funeral parlor crying putting a rosary in her hands saying, she can't go to Heaven without her rosaries. What a devout prayerful example she was, I am so happy she opened to me about her love for our Blessed Mother.
Then I met my darling wife Christine, she was and still is a most incredible woman, so loving and so unselfish in her ways. I was drawn to the way she loved me, and her nephews. She was compassionate and soft in her words. Chrissy was an Episcopalian, she later converted to be Catholic for us to be married, Mother Eugena trained her and they both became the closest of friends. My wife's private devotion to our Lord and the Blessed Mother and St. Francis throughout the years has had a true impact on me. She in many ways reminds me of my grandmother, having a serious, private devout life.Then years later after we got married, my mom and my wife began making rosaries, I didn't initially know about it, I was working when they were doing this. Well once I seen what they were doing and the joy they had in making them, I knew I had to this also. So in 1988-9 I began my rosary making, and have enjoyed making them to this day, and shall continue till Our Lord takes me. We have made and sent missions rosaries to Mother Teresa in Calcutta and Mother Angelica at EWTN monthly for years and many others around the world..
Reflecting back now I see, how the women in my life have always been such a huge part of my love for my Lord, most especially Our Most Blessed Mother. Thank You, Jesus.
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
Your brother in Christ Jesus
And His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS
I am a Secular Franciscan (OFS)...
Side Note: My dear friend and sister in the Lord, Janelle Martinez encouraged me to write this while I was in Oklahoma City, OK for the weekend. We've been sharing and talking about Jesus and our Blessed Mother the entire time for many months (just about that whole year), while I was out on the road driving a big rig cross-country for almost a year for TMC. Thank You Jan.
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/rosarymanjim/
My Story - 1st Time Posted Here
©2007 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
(Originally written in 2006)
Here's how I Gave My Life and Heart to Jesus..
The Girl Scout Camp Weekend
Let's first look at the history of events that happened before I actually decided to follow Jesus. Here it was Father's Day weekend 1983, my family and my mother's Girl Scout troop went away on a camp weekend, I drove my car filled with camping supplies and my parents took their camper, it was a mini-motor home. We camped in a campground called Blueberry Hill in Port Republic, NJ, that's south Jersey near Atlantic City.
After a long weekend my parents needed some work done on their camper, so we all ended up staying through lunch and we even decided to go swimming for a while. Well once everything was done we hit the road, the Garden State Parkway was a straight run home back to Staten Island. After about an hour and a half of driving I realized I was really tired. So I was chatting with my parents on the CB and asked if they'd pull over so I can get some snacks and a soda. They said, "Are you Ok?" I replied," yes I am fine, I just need some food to keep me awake." So I grabbed some fudge stripped cookies and I think a Sprite, I got back in my car and off we were again. I stayed about 1 mile ahead of them, chatting and giving them traffic reports. My sister Patti wanted to drive with me, so we were in the front seat together and the back seat was filled literally to the top of the front seat with Girl Scout supplies, tents, equipment, literally most everything. I had a 1977 Chevy Nova coupe at the time. I had just bought this car and me and dad just painted it "1965 Chevy Bermuda Blue". I loved how this car looked. I bought it from my neighbor and friend Robert Noonan, me and dad worked on it for a couple months as I was getting ready to graduate high school.
Well not too much after that, my parents lost contact with us. I was exhausted, I had the CB on, the radio on, I was eating and drinking soda, and my sister was fast asleep next to me. I did all I can to fight sleep, but no matter what I did, with my lack of experience driving tired and the fact that we swam a couple hours ago, my body was exhausted. Well I ended up slamming into the guard rail hard, it threw my car up into the air, looking out of the windshield as we hit, we can see traffic in the local lanes passing by under us. We were in the express lanes. I remember as we hit, it woke me and my sister up and she yelled, "What's happening???" I replied, "We are in an accident". I knew I was supposed to be driving, so I knew I must have fallen asleep. This entire event happened in about a minute, but I tell you it was a very slow motion, long drawn out weird strange feeling... and here's the kicker.
As we rolled at a high speed roll, think about seeing it on TV or in a movie, it was the same way, we rolled 3 ½ times destroying my car, and camping gear was thrown all over the highway. As we were being tumbled I can only describe it like this, "a set of hands held us in the air in the car as the car rolled around us" and then when the car landed on the drivers door and slid for about 20 feet we were placed back down in the rubble. It was the most amazing feeling to be sheltered and protected in such a horrific accident.
Well as soon as everything settled I could still feel the car was still running, so I reached over and turned it off. As we emerged out of the passenger side, (note: the vehicle was lying on its side). There were so many people there helping us. We were helped out of the car and someone was cutting my battery cable to prevent a fire or explosion from the fuel. We later found out a family of EMS workers stayed behind us when they seen me swaying, the girl said to me, "we knew you were going to have an accident, we tried blowing our horn to wake you, but you didn't respond, so we stayed behind you." I looked up the highway behind us and in tears said to her, "I don't even remember that part of the road at all", and it was a curved section behind us, over an overpass.
Well within a few minutes my parents arrived and they were frantic, I later found out my mom said to my father, "Duke it the kids!!!!" They were on the local lanes side, my mother came running across traffic almost getting killed herself. My sister was lying on the ground with the EMS people looking her over; she had blood all over her body. And my left arm was all bloody. I was standing in bewilderment looking at what just happened, my first car was destroyed, all our belongings were everywhere, and I couldn't believe we were alive. My mother ran to my sister seeing all the blood and her lying she thought she was seriously hurt. Well it ended up that she had all my blood all over her, because as we went into the roll I covered and protected her from the shattering glass, and the glass fragments were in my arm. Once I was cleaned up, there was no evidence that anything had ever even happened.
Then my mother came over to me to see how I was, she said she ran to Patti first because she was on the ground and she seen me standing figuring I was OK. She and I got to chatting about what just happened, I told her, "I'm sorry, but I fell asleep." She said, "We knew something happened and we figured that this traffic was from you guys, your father and I couldn't get you on the CB." All of sudden my sister went into a rage yelling and screaming at me for speeding, and got us in an accident. I looked at her in tears and said, "What? Patti I….I fell asleep." Then she started crying and my mother was crying.
Well the highway patrol was there, an ambulance, and a tow truck were all at the scene, I have no idea when they arrived, and I don't even remember hearing the sirens at all. The police office wanted to see my driver's license, after taking it, he was in my face nose to nose, and I kept backing off. He said, "Son, were you drinking?" I was like WHAT. I said," No sir, I fell asleep" I explained to him about our long camp weekend and we were swimming just before we left.
So the ambulance took us to the local area hospital, both of us were in the same emergency room area, divided by a curtain. They cleaned us up and looked us over and said to my parents, "it a miracle these kids have no injuries at all. Your son has some very minor cuts from the glass shattering, but once cleaned up there's nothing. And your daughter is perfectly fine, all the blood was from your sons arm, she has no injuries at all." He said he was shocked by the way the EMS described the accident that we had no injuries. I hadn't revealed the part about the hands holding us yet. So we remarkably got up and walked out and left the hospital.
Once we were in my parent's camper I was in the passenger seat, I leaned out the window and yelled looking up to the sky, "Why did you save me????" I was not anger to be saved, I was angrier to believe there was a God. See at that time I was a self proclaimed atheist, I don't remember why but I knew I didn't believe. My father immediately said, "I thought you didn't believe?" I said I don't, and my mother just looked at me and smiled. I was beside myself at this point; I knew something happened here, more than just a bad accident. It was very serious accident that should have killed us both, but here we are walking away like nothing happened.
When we got home and things settled a bit I shared what I experienced through the rolling car and all the details. I think my mother at that point figured, hallelujah my son is saved. I was quick to say, I don't believe it. We were just lucky…
Some months went by and then the next chain events occurred:
My First Charismatic Prayer Meeting and I Wasn't Going
The night started out like this, I was sitting on the porch of one of neighbors with whom I use to chat about everything with. This guy, I called him "Uncle Mickey" his name was Michael Byrnes. His wife was Doris, they were an elderly couple, and none of the kids in the neighborhood liked them and they were always mean to them. Well, I liked them a lot, so through the years I found myself always hanging out with them, I always felt comforted by their kindness and openness to chat with a teenager. We use to talk about school, and girls and life and his job before he retired. He use to smoke a pipe (because of that to this day, I love the smell of a pipe, blackberry tobacco brings back so many wonderful memories) and he use to sip brandy when we talked. In fact he hid the brandy in his shed, his wife never knew, he told me. He was so cute. Years later after he died, she found it and asked me about it, I told her I knew, she smiled and we both hugged and cried. I was by his bedside in his home the day he died. My parents woke me out of a dead sleep saying, "Mrs. Byrnes wants me to come over right away, Mr. Byrnes isn't doing well." That was the saddest day in my life; that man as an angel sent to my life, he was my best friend. Well I don't want to get to side tracked, but I needed to share that.
So I was sitting on the porch at his house when this all began that night, my mother came over and asked me if I'd go with her to her prayer meeting. I looked at her in amazement and said, "No mom, I always told you I have no interest in that stuff." She looked at me and begged, "Please come with me and keep me company, your Aunt is unable to go and I don't want to go alone, I promise you don't have to do anything." So I looked at Uncle Mickey, I looked at mom, and said, "OK, you promise I don't have to do anything, and we'll sit in the back." She agreed.
Well we went to St. Patrick's Church in Richmondtown on Staten Island, it was an old beautiful church, and they had this huge cross of the Crucified Christ behind the altar, right in the center of the church. So everything went as planned, we were in the back, maybe ¾ of the way back and I had an isle seat for an easy quick exit if I wanted. But I forgot to bring reading material, so I can pass the time. So I figured and told my mother, "Guess I'll have to read some of the fiction from this bible." She smiled again, sometimes reflecting back I can see she had her hand in all of this, she must have been praying a lot.
The meeting and Mass went on and I don't seriously remember too much of what went on around me; I was reading about Noah, and then Joseph and what his brothers were doing to him. I was pretty much lost in the word. Now the end was drawing near and my mother whispered, "Stand up so we can say the Our Father." I said, "NO! We agreed I don't have to do anything." She responded," Once we're done with the Our Father we are leaving, come on its no big deal." So I got up and then realized we had to hold hands, and because I was in an isle seat , I had to go across the isle and get the others persons hand who sat on the other side placing me dead center of the isle looking straight up at the cross with my arms extended holding hands. At first I thought to myself, Wooow, how did I get myself here? So I figured, ok let's get this over with, maybe if I just recite the Our Father, this will be over all the faster. So I did "say" the Our Father looking intently at the cross.
Here it was again, another one of those slow motion experiences in my life. As my arms were out stretched looking at the cross, saying my Our Father. I had this feeling come over me. It was not a chill; believe you me, it was absolutely not the chills. On the right side of my body I felt this tingling entering my body, it moved across my body, stopped a second and then exited on the left side, once again I was beside myself not understanding what just happened. I knew that was way beyond my understanding, but I felt so at peace after it happened.
Well we got into the car, mom wanted to drop off a few friends, I said sure, I was driving. They were all chatting away and I stopped them and wanted answers and asked them about my experience. They looked at me in amazement and my mother said really fast, "How come I didn't feel that?" I laughed and said, "I have no idea what even just happen to me." I further explained and shared that I don't know why but I need to take Grandma to go see Grandpa (Eugene) at the cemetery. My mother said, "What, where did that come from?" I said, "Mom, I have no idea, but that was my first thought after I got that sensation of something passing through me. " Mind you I never knew my dad's dad at all; he died when my father was four. But I knew that that was what I had to do.
So the next day I called my Grandmother (Conchetta Dacey) and as detailed as I could I explained my experience from the night before. She was speechless in joy crying on the phone. She was so happy and so filled with joy, I was taken by it. She explained, "Jimmy, your Uncle Al always takes me to see Grandpa every week at the cemetery, but these past few weeks he has been too busy and I have been praying and praying that someone would take me, I kept telling your Grandfather, don't worry I will be there to see you, someone will take me…then you call and tell me all this. My prayers have been answered through you." I had no idea that her and my uncle use to go to the cemetery weekly. I was once again…..beside myself. I seem to do that a lot don't I when I am in bewilderment of a situation. It's funny I guess. I think the "beside myself" is a metaphor meaning that I wasn't standing alone, but rather the Holy Spirit was right there with me through those experiences.
Well she and I went to the cemetery very often after that. We ended up developing a very close bond, beyond our natural relations, she and I had a commonness that is really hard to explain, still is hard to explain after all these years. In fact it was that very experience in my life that led me to become the families historian, I felt so close to my family and my heritage now, that I desired to learn more. My Uncle Al was the Historian before me; he and I spent much time reviewing many details.
But I must tell you, my grandmother was the cutest, her broken English and her overwhelming joy made me realize that when God wants you, even if the first time He calls you, you turn away and deny Him, He will not stop till He gets you. He was persistent and He made me clearly understand that I can not live my life in complete joy without Him.
My Reflection
It been 35 years now since all that occurred in my life, and I must say, to this day, I can relive the emotional impact today like its happening for the first time. My life hasn't been the same since. I have been on many spiritual highs and in some deep valleys of challenges, but never ever have I ever turned my life away from my Lord and I will never ever deny Him. Jesus changed my life back then. I am so happy that He did.
He has filled my heart in such a way that so many of the things of this world have no meaning to me, and could never fill my heart like He does. I no longer have the emptiness that so many people have, trying to fill it with things. I cling to Jesus not the worldly society we live in. I find safety and comfort in Him; He alone is all I need. There's a saying I say and use to say a lot and still do now and then. It goes like this: "You can have all this world has to offer: its wealth; its lust, its things; all I want and desire is Jesus." And I mean that with all my heart.
Directly after that I got involved with 3 different charismatic prayer groups on Staten Island, I could not get enough of Jesus, I still feel that way today, I can't get enough of Him. Those meetings allowed me to meet and pray with some of God's most amazing people: Mother Eugena, Jerry Kelly, Carol Bulcroft, Doris, Sunny, Jackie; there are way too many people to mention, but that was our (me and my mom and then eventually me and Chrissy), normal weekly events in our life, even Jimmy 3rd as an infant use to come with us, many of us in the groups were part of all 3 groups, it was some incredible fellowship for years.
And early on, I was immediately drawn to Our Blessed Mother in St. Patrick's. She captured my heart at St. Patrick's, and I began immediately sharing to everyone there about the power of the rosary, these wonderful beads of joy and it was something everyone needed to learn about immediately. Praise You Jesus. I was a babe in spirit and on fire. Yes I am still on fire.
Now that I am speaking about "the Rosary" which for me makes me feel right at home. I adore Our Blessed Mother so much, she said "Yes", and opened the door for Jesus to capture my heart and soul. My mother's mom (Susan DePete) was very into praying her rosary. I use to spend much time over their house growing up. I use to go fishing with Grandpa a lot, then when he and I was home, I use to spend many hours just talking with Grandma, she use to tell me about her parents, her love for her sister; my Aunt Helen, and how much she loved Our Blessed Mother. She use to have a huge statue of Our Blessed Mother in her bedroom. And she use to say to me that the rosary was her favorite prayer. I still remember many of those chats; she was such a devout faithful woman. I remember at the funeral parlor crying putting a rosary in her hands saying, she can't go to Heaven without her rosaries. What a devout prayerful example she was, I am so happy she opened to me about her love for our Blessed Mother.
Then I met my darling wife Christine, she was and still is a most incredible woman, so loving and so unselfish in her ways. I was drawn to the way she loved me, and her nephews. She was compassionate and soft in her words. Chrissy was an Episcopalian, she later converted to be Catholic for us to be married, Mother Eugena trained her and they both became the closest of friends. My wife's private devotion to our Lord and the Blessed Mother and St. Francis throughout the years has had a true impact on me. She in many ways reminds me of my grandmother, having a serious, private devout life.Then years later after we got married, my mom and my wife began making rosaries, I didn't initially know about it, I was working when they were doing this. Well once I seen what they were doing and the joy they had in making them, I knew I had to this also. So in 1988-9 I began my rosary making, and have enjoyed making them to this day, and shall continue till Our Lord takes me. We have made and sent missions rosaries to Mother Teresa in Calcutta and Mother Angelica at EWTN monthly for years and many others around the world..
Reflecting back now I see, how the women in my life have always been such a huge part of my love for my Lord, most especially Our Most Blessed Mother. Thank You, Jesus.
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
Your brother in Christ Jesus
And His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS
I am a Secular Franciscan (OFS)...
Side Note: My dear friend and sister in the Lord, Janelle Martinez encouraged me to write this while I was in Oklahoma City, OK for the weekend. We've been sharing and talking about Jesus and our Blessed Mother the entire time for many months (just about that whole year), while I was out on the road driving a big rig cross-country for almost a year for TMC. Thank You Jan.
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/rosarymanjim/
MY FIRST BOOK.
(Mary’s Way of The Cross - .99¢)
https://www.amazon.com/Marys-Way-Cross-Rosary-Man-ebook/dp/B079TJZFQJ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519240799&sr=8-1&keywords=rosary+man+jim
MY SECOND BOOK.
(Praying The Complete Rosary - .99¢)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BFXM4VR
Thank you..
(Mary’s Way of The Cross - .99¢)
https://www.amazon.com/Marys-Way-Cross-Rosary-Man-ebook/dp/B079TJZFQJ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519240799&sr=8-1&keywords=rosary+man+jim
MY SECOND BOOK.
(Praying The Complete Rosary - .99¢)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BFXM4VR
Thank you..
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Power of Jesus
Beads of Joy 01-21-10
The Power of Jesus
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is so exciting and absolutely without a doubt so much fun to learn about. Today's gospel is Mark 3:7-12 (The Mercy of Jesus), it is an incredible phenomenon of how the power that Jesus had and still has the ability to draw people to Himself. I will agree that in today's times there is a violent revolt against anything that is of Jesus or God or the Bible. The society we live in wants full control of their lives, they are so set on controlling the present time we live in that many try to change, delete or modify truths from our history. One thing we can't do, is change what's already happened in the past. History can't be rewritten or changed, it is what it is.
Now with all that said, let us look at our lives and how the power of Jesus has called us to live a holy life loyal to Him. If there is one thing that is clear about this life here on earth; it's that all the physical and materialistic parts of it will come to an end. None of this, absolutely none of this has any spiritual values for us beyond the walls of death. No matter how much time, money, sweat and blood you invest in your home, your car, your stuff and your accounts, it's all inevitably deemed pointless to your eternal destiny. There is so much power alone in Jesus, that we really truly know and feel that all the way into the depths of our soul. Scripture tells us, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31. It is God's love for us that enables us to have the strength (through the power of Jesus).
Let us focus on God, and why we must allow the power of Jesus to reign supreme in our lives. Scriptures are our best friends forever (bff) in helping guide us to eternity with God. Here's another drop of God's exciting wisdom and truth. "For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." 1 Corinthians 1:25. Wow, so are there any questions? LOL. The power of Jesus as seen by the world seems foolish; they see a dead man on a cross. Yet the true power of that cross is without restraints, the man up on it cannot be killed, and power He attains cannot be measured. Jesus said in 2 Corinthians 12:9, "but He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness."
I pray everyday asking Jesus to instill inside all of you, a joy that is so overflowing and so exciting that your body will shiver. A joy that I always share that is residing inside my heart and soul. There is nothing in this world that has any power over Jesus, nothing, not even death. If we have given our lives to Jesus and we believe in Him and follow Him, we to have the power of Jesus within us by the power of the Holy Spirit. "For to me life is Christ, and death is gain." Philippians 1:21. Paul has shared a most insightful truth, reflecting back to Galatians 2:19-20, "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me." Please read the rest of that scripture, you will see that the power of Jesus is part of all of us in our faith and walk with Him.
Jesus Christ has set us free, let us stand firm in His love.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
The Power of Jesus
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is so exciting and absolutely without a doubt so much fun to learn about. Today's gospel is Mark 3:7-12 (The Mercy of Jesus), it is an incredible phenomenon of how the power that Jesus had and still has the ability to draw people to Himself. I will agree that in today's times there is a violent revolt against anything that is of Jesus or God or the Bible. The society we live in wants full control of their lives, they are so set on controlling the present time we live in that many try to change, delete or modify truths from our history. One thing we can't do, is change what's already happened in the past. History can't be rewritten or changed, it is what it is.
Now with all that said, let us look at our lives and how the power of Jesus has called us to live a holy life loyal to Him. If there is one thing that is clear about this life here on earth; it's that all the physical and materialistic parts of it will come to an end. None of this, absolutely none of this has any spiritual values for us beyond the walls of death. No matter how much time, money, sweat and blood you invest in your home, your car, your stuff and your accounts, it's all inevitably deemed pointless to your eternal destiny. There is so much power alone in Jesus, that we really truly know and feel that all the way into the depths of our soul. Scripture tells us, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31. It is God's love for us that enables us to have the strength (through the power of Jesus).
Let us focus on God, and why we must allow the power of Jesus to reign supreme in our lives. Scriptures are our best friends forever (bff) in helping guide us to eternity with God. Here's another drop of God's exciting wisdom and truth. "For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." 1 Corinthians 1:25. Wow, so are there any questions? LOL. The power of Jesus as seen by the world seems foolish; they see a dead man on a cross. Yet the true power of that cross is without restraints, the man up on it cannot be killed, and power He attains cannot be measured. Jesus said in 2 Corinthians 12:9, "but He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness."
I pray everyday asking Jesus to instill inside all of you, a joy that is so overflowing and so exciting that your body will shiver. A joy that I always share that is residing inside my heart and soul. There is nothing in this world that has any power over Jesus, nothing, not even death. If we have given our lives to Jesus and we believe in Him and follow Him, we to have the power of Jesus within us by the power of the Holy Spirit. "For to me life is Christ, and death is gain." Philippians 1:21. Paul has shared a most insightful truth, reflecting back to Galatians 2:19-20, "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me." Please read the rest of that scripture, you will see that the power of Jesus is part of all of us in our faith and walk with Him.
Jesus Christ has set us free, let us stand firm in His love.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Stretch Out Your Hand
Beads of Joy 01-20-10
Stretch Out Your Hand
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
The more you study scripture and spend time in the word; the more you can clearly see how "good" is always challenged and how the attempt to silence it is constant. Today we study Mark 3:1-6 (The Man With a Withered Hand), Jesus was angry here, hard to believe that I agree. But in verse 5, "Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart," How else can Jesus react to the Pharisees who in their hardness of heart, not see all that was good in all that Jesus did. This whole exchange of words between the Pharisees and Jesus was all a part of the plot to kill Jesus.
There is always a senseless rage that is usually inflamed with hatred when it comes to the desire for evil to destroy what is good. It was here on the Sabbath that Jesus healed a man with a simple command, "Stretch Out Your Hand."; Jesus healed this man in front of everyone sight including the Pharisees. I'm sure aside from complete amazement and shock to what they just witnessed with their own eyes; there must have been envy and jealousy boiling in the hearts of those who hated Jesus. How sad a life that must be lived by those inflamed with evil, death and hatred toward God. Satan has poisoned their soul, we must pray for such people for the price they will pay at the judgment will forever keep them away from God's love and grace.
These Pharisees were very vigilant in pursuing the murder of Jesus. They knew He'd heal this man, they knew when Jesus was in the sight of anyone suffering, that he'd heal them. If these Pharisees were here today I just know they'd most likely belong to a political group that thinks: they know everything, they hate God, and they do all they can to destroy what it good. Jesus indeed had His hands full dealing with such an ungodly group of people. How do we live our lives? Do we honor the Sabbath? Do we do all we can to help relieve the suffering others endure? These are important questions to consider. Are we bold in our faith?
One of the lessons we gained today is that Jesus sacredly keep the Sabbath by doing what is good on the Sabbath. These are my thoughts, but by Jesus doing an "in the face" miracle in front of the Pharisees for them to clearly see, says it all. Jesus shows us that no matter how negative, and no matter how mean some can be when it comes to doing what is good; good can still be attained no matter what. Let us not be discouraged by those who are against our faith. Their harsh words, their attempts to silence us, can not shut us down. Allow the power of the Holy Spirit work in your life, "Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing." John 15:5
Remember Jesus said the world will hate us, because they hated Him first.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Stretch Out Your Hand
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
The more you study scripture and spend time in the word; the more you can clearly see how "good" is always challenged and how the attempt to silence it is constant. Today we study Mark 3:1-6 (The Man With a Withered Hand), Jesus was angry here, hard to believe that I agree. But in verse 5, "Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart," How else can Jesus react to the Pharisees who in their hardness of heart, not see all that was good in all that Jesus did. This whole exchange of words between the Pharisees and Jesus was all a part of the plot to kill Jesus.
There is always a senseless rage that is usually inflamed with hatred when it comes to the desire for evil to destroy what is good. It was here on the Sabbath that Jesus healed a man with a simple command, "Stretch Out Your Hand."; Jesus healed this man in front of everyone sight including the Pharisees. I'm sure aside from complete amazement and shock to what they just witnessed with their own eyes; there must have been envy and jealousy boiling in the hearts of those who hated Jesus. How sad a life that must be lived by those inflamed with evil, death and hatred toward God. Satan has poisoned their soul, we must pray for such people for the price they will pay at the judgment will forever keep them away from God's love and grace.
These Pharisees were very vigilant in pursuing the murder of Jesus. They knew He'd heal this man, they knew when Jesus was in the sight of anyone suffering, that he'd heal them. If these Pharisees were here today I just know they'd most likely belong to a political group that thinks: they know everything, they hate God, and they do all they can to destroy what it good. Jesus indeed had His hands full dealing with such an ungodly group of people. How do we live our lives? Do we honor the Sabbath? Do we do all we can to help relieve the suffering others endure? These are important questions to consider. Are we bold in our faith?
One of the lessons we gained today is that Jesus sacredly keep the Sabbath by doing what is good on the Sabbath. These are my thoughts, but by Jesus doing an "in the face" miracle in front of the Pharisees for them to clearly see, says it all. Jesus shows us that no matter how negative, and no matter how mean some can be when it comes to doing what is good; good can still be attained no matter what. Let us not be discouraged by those who are against our faith. Their harsh words, their attempts to silence us, can not shut us down. Allow the power of the Holy Spirit work in your life, "Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing." John 15:5
Remember Jesus said the world will hate us, because they hated Him first.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Has Society Changed Us?
Beads of Joy 01-19-10
Has Society Changed Us?
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Stress, confusion, hurt and anger, so many people deal with this mix and more everyday. Society has changed and in that change, the dynamics of our lives have changed. But in all these changes, has this society changed us? In some ways I think that is so; for some for the better and for others for the worst. Some people are stressed out by politics, others by the politics of politics. There are also many entwined in the politics of relationships, family, work and just survival.
These "things" if we call them that, they alone can change us. Sometimes it makes us a harder person, other times we become more defensive and protective of our own feelings. The thing with this is that we don't have any control of these changes in our lives, at least for the most part. Sometimes we don't want to change them, other times as they are changing we feel powerless. In this life we have to understand that change and the unpredictability of it are all part of the mix. I know I have over used the word "change" in this so far. But the foundation of all of what we go through as a society and as individuals is centered on the changes we each experience.
What I am saying is that sometimes in this life we can be on a path that is obvious, predictable and then all of a sudden the road ends. With no warning at all, in fact the last sign we saw said 65 mph speed limit. So as the road ended so abruptly with that speed, the sudden stop, the outcome becomes obvious. I bet many can relate to this kind of life at times, we experience a sort of "hold on", "hang on", "don't let go" feeling. Some of you must be saying, "he writes like he's been there", and you'd be right. No one in this life is living so perfectly to a formula; and honestly in my own opinion through the thousands of people I know and share with on all levels through the years; if someone says they are, they're either lying to someone, or to themselves.
This blog I guess in its own way wants you to know it's OK for us to go through the storms of life; the turmoil of confusion and the changing of our own identity. It is through transformation that many things evolve and grow. And I guess in the complete vast picture of God's plan for each of us; sometimes there is purpose for the things we can't control. I'm not saying all bad or harmful things are good. But since we don't know the will of God in any great detail in our lives; sometimes we just need to trust in order to be able to forge forward. This is a different kind of blog for me, from time to time I will be sharing on other levels, sometimes deeply personal, other times like now where I skirt around the edge of deeply personal. It's been fun, hope you liked this.
Change brings transformation, and transformation brings change.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Has Society Changed Us?
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Stress, confusion, hurt and anger, so many people deal with this mix and more everyday. Society has changed and in that change, the dynamics of our lives have changed. But in all these changes, has this society changed us? In some ways I think that is so; for some for the better and for others for the worst. Some people are stressed out by politics, others by the politics of politics. There are also many entwined in the politics of relationships, family, work and just survival.
These "things" if we call them that, they alone can change us. Sometimes it makes us a harder person, other times we become more defensive and protective of our own feelings. The thing with this is that we don't have any control of these changes in our lives, at least for the most part. Sometimes we don't want to change them, other times as they are changing we feel powerless. In this life we have to understand that change and the unpredictability of it are all part of the mix. I know I have over used the word "change" in this so far. But the foundation of all of what we go through as a society and as individuals is centered on the changes we each experience.
What I am saying is that sometimes in this life we can be on a path that is obvious, predictable and then all of a sudden the road ends. With no warning at all, in fact the last sign we saw said 65 mph speed limit. So as the road ended so abruptly with that speed, the sudden stop, the outcome becomes obvious. I bet many can relate to this kind of life at times, we experience a sort of "hold on", "hang on", "don't let go" feeling. Some of you must be saying, "he writes like he's been there", and you'd be right. No one in this life is living so perfectly to a formula; and honestly in my own opinion through the thousands of people I know and share with on all levels through the years; if someone says they are, they're either lying to someone, or to themselves.
This blog I guess in its own way wants you to know it's OK for us to go through the storms of life; the turmoil of confusion and the changing of our own identity. It is through transformation that many things evolve and grow. And I guess in the complete vast picture of God's plan for each of us; sometimes there is purpose for the things we can't control. I'm not saying all bad or harmful things are good. But since we don't know the will of God in any great detail in our lives; sometimes we just need to trust in order to be able to forge forward. This is a different kind of blog for me, from time to time I will be sharing on other levels, sometimes deeply personal, other times like now where I skirt around the edge of deeply personal. It's been fun, hope you liked this.
Change brings transformation, and transformation brings change.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Monday, January 18, 2010
Rediscover The Joy of Fasting
Beads of Joy 01-18-10
Rediscover The Joy of Fasting
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Yet another spectacular gospel reading for us to reflect on our Lord's magnificent wisdom. Let us rediscover the joy our Lord is teaching us today. Today's gospel is Mark 2:18-22 (The Question About Fasting). Now we can rediscover fasting, maybe in a way we never have before, or maybe even in a way that will thrill our hearts and change our lives. Fasting is indeed a physical experience, but more importantly it is a spiritual exercise. Let us also remember that Jesus went into the desert and fasted for 40 days. In Matthew 4:4 we read, "One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
One thing we learn about the spiritual purpose of fasting is that fasting helps us become more aware of God's presence. And one thing I have learned not only in scripture but also in spiritual direction with fasting; is that we must keep this great gift that we give to God, between us and God alone. You can see it in Matthew's gospel, "But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will reward you." I really love scripture. When you spend as much time in the bible as I do, you easily understand and believe and see, how God's hand was indeed the hand who assembled and wrote the scripture through His chosen people.
Fasting is a rather unique sacrifice and gift; a gift we can give to God, but also a gift while giving we are able to receive. Fasting is an inner act of sacrifice that deepens our spiritual walk with Jesus. In my own personal experience I find that fasting evolves as time progresses. What I mean by that is, that the more hours or days in a row that you fast; the more energy you have and the closer to God you feel and the clearer you see God. One would think possibly the reverse would happen, we would grow tired and weary without food. On the contrary the energy surge is incredible. But use your head, if your health requires food, please DO NOT FAST, instead consult a priest on what you might do.
Fasting is a very powerful way for us to turn our dependency over to God. Also note that fasting not only heals the soul, but it also has the power to heal the body (cholesterol, blood pressure, sickness, etc). I challenge all of you to somehow incorporate fasting into your life. Maybe once a week, the same day or rotating days. Or even fast from something you really enjoy for the day, maybe coffee or chocolate. Also allow the purpose of your fast to draw yourself back to Jesus. Never give up on your journey as you fast, you will have both good and bad days. Just stick with it, and offer all your suffering up to Jesus as your gift to Him. I hope this was helpful.
Fasting is so radical I agree, but so is our Catholic Faith.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Rediscover The Joy of Fasting
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Yet another spectacular gospel reading for us to reflect on our Lord's magnificent wisdom. Let us rediscover the joy our Lord is teaching us today. Today's gospel is Mark 2:18-22 (The Question About Fasting). Now we can rediscover fasting, maybe in a way we never have before, or maybe even in a way that will thrill our hearts and change our lives. Fasting is indeed a physical experience, but more importantly it is a spiritual exercise. Let us also remember that Jesus went into the desert and fasted for 40 days. In Matthew 4:4 we read, "One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
One thing we learn about the spiritual purpose of fasting is that fasting helps us become more aware of God's presence. And one thing I have learned not only in scripture but also in spiritual direction with fasting; is that we must keep this great gift that we give to God, between us and God alone. You can see it in Matthew's gospel, "But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will reward you." I really love scripture. When you spend as much time in the bible as I do, you easily understand and believe and see, how God's hand was indeed the hand who assembled and wrote the scripture through His chosen people.
Fasting is a rather unique sacrifice and gift; a gift we can give to God, but also a gift while giving we are able to receive. Fasting is an inner act of sacrifice that deepens our spiritual walk with Jesus. In my own personal experience I find that fasting evolves as time progresses. What I mean by that is, that the more hours or days in a row that you fast; the more energy you have and the closer to God you feel and the clearer you see God. One would think possibly the reverse would happen, we would grow tired and weary without food. On the contrary the energy surge is incredible. But use your head, if your health requires food, please DO NOT FAST, instead consult a priest on what you might do.
Fasting is a very powerful way for us to turn our dependency over to God. Also note that fasting not only heals the soul, but it also has the power to heal the body (cholesterol, blood pressure, sickness, etc). I challenge all of you to somehow incorporate fasting into your life. Maybe once a week, the same day or rotating days. Or even fast from something you really enjoy for the day, maybe coffee or chocolate. Also allow the purpose of your fast to draw yourself back to Jesus. Never give up on your journey as you fast, you will have both good and bad days. Just stick with it, and offer all your suffering up to Jesus as your gift to Him. I hope this was helpful.
Fasting is so radical I agree, but so is our Catholic Faith.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sunday, January 17, 2010
The Miracles Have Begun
Beads of Joy 01-17-10
The Miracles Have Begun
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is no doubt this is Jesus' first miracle, His miraculous power is unleashed and ready to change the world. Today we study and reflect upon John 2:1-11 (The Miracle at the Wedding at Cana). This most joyous miracle happened at a wedding celebration, a sacrament unto the Lord, where the two shall become one in His sight. In Mark 10:6-9 "But at the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife; and the two will become one flesh; so they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."
Jesus chose a most unlikely place to begin spreading His joy with the power of His miracles. And that choice was prompted by His Mother. Mary's intervention is pretty incredible to read. He knew what she wanted Him to do, all she said to Him was, "They have no wine." He rebuked her immediately, but in her being His Mother, He had respect for her request. She knew this, because once they finished talking she turned to the servers and said, "Do whatever He tells you." This is why in the rosary, we ask Our Sweet Dear Blessed Mother to speak to Her Son for us. Her words of intercession spoken softly into Her Sons ear on our behalf is a very powerful way to pray.
In this most awesome miracle so many things are true and sacred as we further observe and reflect upon the scripture. For starters when those who truly believed in Him where in His presence they simply knew. It's true the servants knew to obey and did just as He told them. The disciples simply knew that whatever He was going to do would indeed bring joy. They didn't question Him. His Mother obviously had the foresight of the entire event, including how her Son would bless this young couple. And in those six stone jars, he filled them with the purity of water and transformed them into a "good wine".
He transformed what was weak (water) into something that was strong (wine). We must allow Him to use us in the same manner. Let Him fill your heart and your soul with His love, His grace, His peace, His presence, all of Him. So that we to can be transformed, "Do not conform yourself to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2 Trust in our Blessed Mother's faith and love for her Son, and her fervent ability to bring your needs and requests before her Son.
Jesus looks upon marriage to bless it with His love.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
The Miracles Have Begun
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is no doubt this is Jesus' first miracle, His miraculous power is unleashed and ready to change the world. Today we study and reflect upon John 2:1-11 (The Miracle at the Wedding at Cana). This most joyous miracle happened at a wedding celebration, a sacrament unto the Lord, where the two shall become one in His sight. In Mark 10:6-9 "But at the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife; and the two will become one flesh; so they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."
Jesus chose a most unlikely place to begin spreading His joy with the power of His miracles. And that choice was prompted by His Mother. Mary's intervention is pretty incredible to read. He knew what she wanted Him to do, all she said to Him was, "They have no wine." He rebuked her immediately, but in her being His Mother, He had respect for her request. She knew this, because once they finished talking she turned to the servers and said, "Do whatever He tells you." This is why in the rosary, we ask Our Sweet Dear Blessed Mother to speak to Her Son for us. Her words of intercession spoken softly into Her Sons ear on our behalf is a very powerful way to pray.
In this most awesome miracle so many things are true and sacred as we further observe and reflect upon the scripture. For starters when those who truly believed in Him where in His presence they simply knew. It's true the servants knew to obey and did just as He told them. The disciples simply knew that whatever He was going to do would indeed bring joy. They didn't question Him. His Mother obviously had the foresight of the entire event, including how her Son would bless this young couple. And in those six stone jars, he filled them with the purity of water and transformed them into a "good wine".
He transformed what was weak (water) into something that was strong (wine). We must allow Him to use us in the same manner. Let Him fill your heart and your soul with His love, His grace, His peace, His presence, all of Him. So that we to can be transformed, "Do not conform yourself to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2 Trust in our Blessed Mother's faith and love for her Son, and her fervent ability to bring your needs and requests before her Son.
Jesus looks upon marriage to bless it with His love.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Saturday, January 16, 2010
He Eats With Sinners
Beads of Joy 01-16-10
He Eats With Sinners
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is so exciting, this is why Jesus is here. Today's reading has some incredible jewels of wisdom within it, Mark 2:13-17 (The Call of Levi). "I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." (verse 17), this is one of so many exciting statements from Jesus. We are all sinners and "while we were still sinners Christ died for us." Romans 5:8. I highly recommend you spend time in scripture, you will be filled with so much joy everyday. The bible is God's words and it's our guide. Every single topic and thought you can possibly imagine is written about.
The New Testament leads the way while the Old Testament provides a most secure solid foundation. In today's reading: Jesus is calling Levi to follow Him, the Pharisees questioned to protest Jesus and Jesus' solid firm response; has me pondering on so many magnificent scriptures that reflect exactly what Jesus' response was all about. It is written in 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." Here Jesus passed on to Paul a most precious piece of wisdom about God's grace.
Do we live a life with the knowledge that we are all indeed sinners? or Are we living a life thinking and acting like the Pharisees with a self-righteous attitude? What is it that draws us to God, His Mercy and His Grace? So many are drawn to Jesus, it doesn't matter who we are: if we are the unwanted, the homeless, widows, corrupt individuals, prostitutes, the unlovable. We have to remember one very important thing, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," Romans 3:23. See how exciting the Holy Bible is. I am so ecstatically thrilled to be able to spend time in the word. Please spend time reading His word, you'll be so filled with joy.
Let us sit down and eat with Jesus, there is so much to be learned here by His example. We are indeed amongst the list of all those our Lord has come to heal. "I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." v.17 as I have quoted earlier in this blog. What we have received from God is exactly what He wants us to give to others. We all know it's not always going to be easy trying to be generous, helpful or kind to people who are unlikable maybe for their rudeness, or their meanness, or maybe they are a trouble-maker. It don't really matter though, we must give them that which we have received.
Our kindness and generosity towards others must be sincere.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
He Eats With Sinners
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is so exciting, this is why Jesus is here. Today's reading has some incredible jewels of wisdom within it, Mark 2:13-17 (The Call of Levi). "I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." (verse 17), this is one of so many exciting statements from Jesus. We are all sinners and "while we were still sinners Christ died for us." Romans 5:8. I highly recommend you spend time in scripture, you will be filled with so much joy everyday. The bible is God's words and it's our guide. Every single topic and thought you can possibly imagine is written about.
The New Testament leads the way while the Old Testament provides a most secure solid foundation. In today's reading: Jesus is calling Levi to follow Him, the Pharisees questioned to protest Jesus and Jesus' solid firm response; has me pondering on so many magnificent scriptures that reflect exactly what Jesus' response was all about. It is written in 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." Here Jesus passed on to Paul a most precious piece of wisdom about God's grace.
Do we live a life with the knowledge that we are all indeed sinners? or Are we living a life thinking and acting like the Pharisees with a self-righteous attitude? What is it that draws us to God, His Mercy and His Grace? So many are drawn to Jesus, it doesn't matter who we are: if we are the unwanted, the homeless, widows, corrupt individuals, prostitutes, the unlovable. We have to remember one very important thing, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," Romans 3:23. See how exciting the Holy Bible is. I am so ecstatically thrilled to be able to spend time in the word. Please spend time reading His word, you'll be so filled with joy.
Let us sit down and eat with Jesus, there is so much to be learned here by His example. We are indeed amongst the list of all those our Lord has come to heal. "I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." v.17 as I have quoted earlier in this blog. What we have received from God is exactly what He wants us to give to others. We all know it's not always going to be easy trying to be generous, helpful or kind to people who are unlikable maybe for their rudeness, or their meanness, or maybe they are a trouble-maker. It don't really matter though, we must give them that which we have received.
Our kindness and generosity towards others must be sincere.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Friday, January 15, 2010
They Were All Astounded
Beads of Joy 01-15-10
They Were All Astounded
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
A most fantastic exciting miracle has taken place in Capernaum. Four very faithful friends were determined to get their other friend who was a paralytic before Jesus so he can be healed. Today we are reading and studying Mark 2:1-12 (The Healing of a Paralytic). I can only imagine the look on the face of those in the house, when they saw the roof section broken through as these four were lowering down their friend. The faith and determination of these four friends must have been breath taking.
Jesus was without a doubt happy with all their efforts. In verse 2:5, "When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Child, your sins are forgiven." This mans healing was instantaneous. Do you realize how exciting it must have been for him? Now let's take this even further outside the box, how ever did those present in the house respond? I'm sure their are those who sincerely believed in Jesus; but consider this, what about those on the fence, or those who wanted to believe and those who were curious and didn't believe. That was all a bit long winded I agree, but you see how that was indeed an exciting moment for everyone no doubt. Would we believe even stronger if we seen it happen before our eyes? Or would we still doubt our own sight?
There are a few things we can understand in this miracle. For starters the forgiveness of sins healed the paralytic. Another incredible part of this miracle was that the bondage of the pain (the sin) was healed immediately. Jesus simply heals with the slightest utter of His will for us. And I noticed that in verse 10 leading into verse 11, Jesus was possibly speaking directly to the scribes who didn't believe in Him. His tone, I realize there is no "tone" in the written word, but verse 10 just seemed a bit misplaced, like all of a sudden a point needed to be made. I hope you can all follow that.
The end of verse 12 was a spectacular way to end the gospel reading, "They were all astounded and glorified God, saying "We have never seen anything like this." So many must have believed after seeing that miracle happen right in front of them. Praise Jesus for loving us so much, not only to die for me and you so that we may live eternally with Him; but for loving us so much that while He was here He healed so many.
The Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth. v.10
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
They Were All Astounded
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
A most fantastic exciting miracle has taken place in Capernaum. Four very faithful friends were determined to get their other friend who was a paralytic before Jesus so he can be healed. Today we are reading and studying Mark 2:1-12 (The Healing of a Paralytic). I can only imagine the look on the face of those in the house, when they saw the roof section broken through as these four were lowering down their friend. The faith and determination of these four friends must have been breath taking.
Jesus was without a doubt happy with all their efforts. In verse 2:5, "When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Child, your sins are forgiven." This mans healing was instantaneous. Do you realize how exciting it must have been for him? Now let's take this even further outside the box, how ever did those present in the house respond? I'm sure their are those who sincerely believed in Jesus; but consider this, what about those on the fence, or those who wanted to believe and those who were curious and didn't believe. That was all a bit long winded I agree, but you see how that was indeed an exciting moment for everyone no doubt. Would we believe even stronger if we seen it happen before our eyes? Or would we still doubt our own sight?
There are a few things we can understand in this miracle. For starters the forgiveness of sins healed the paralytic. Another incredible part of this miracle was that the bondage of the pain (the sin) was healed immediately. Jesus simply heals with the slightest utter of His will for us. And I noticed that in verse 10 leading into verse 11, Jesus was possibly speaking directly to the scribes who didn't believe in Him. His tone, I realize there is no "tone" in the written word, but verse 10 just seemed a bit misplaced, like all of a sudden a point needed to be made. I hope you can all follow that.
The end of verse 12 was a spectacular way to end the gospel reading, "They were all astounded and glorified God, saying "We have never seen anything like this." So many must have believed after seeing that miracle happen right in front of them. Praise Jesus for loving us so much, not only to die for me and you so that we may live eternally with Him; but for loving us so much that while He was here He healed so many.
The Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth. v.10
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Thursday, January 14, 2010
The Parable of the Bicycle Rider
Beads of Joy 01-14-10
The Parable of the Bicycle Rider
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello My Friends,
Now let us look at this most incredible parable I have found. LOL. I know there is no such parable in the bible, but are we sure, I thought I saw St. Peter riding a bicycle in Galilee. Ok, you guys win, but I'll tell you one thing about the parables Jesus taught; He simply used stories talking about the things around Him and us to share spiritual truth. I was thinking about this, just this week while I was driving to Springfield, MA. A bicycle rider in many ways is just like a child of God taking their Christian journey. I know that might not make all that much sense, but don't worry you know I'll fully explain it. I got the gift to gab.. ok in my blogs...type.
Let us look at a bicycle rider for a moment. For the most part biking is an activity that involves your personal input pretty much most of the time. There was this bicycle rider and in order for this person to stay up and not fall they had to keep peddling for the most part. They took this trip and on this trip there were many downhill rolls, at which time the rider didn't need to peddle so much which made the ride easier; balance and awareness of ones surroundings was key at this time. On this trip they also had uphill climbs to make, the one thing different here was that these uphill climbs involved a lot of work and focus in order to make it to the top. After this long trip, the rider took the bicycle and parked it on their front deck. Since the bicycle was out of sight and out of mind, the bicyclist was no longer biking.
In our Christian walk we can look at the bicycle rider and learn from them. Some of the key elements of this parable is: in order to be a successful bicycle rider you must be balanced and aware of your surroundings. On the downhill rides when the ride is easy, there are two elements that help you; balance and staying focused on your surroundings to avoid a crash. On the uphill climbs when times get difficult and prayer is key to make it to the top, we need to stay focused, keep balanced and don't stop peddling, you will make it. The end of the parable is critical for us to understand, we can not take away our connection between us and Jesus. If we park our faith and go about our lives without Jesus, He will become out of sight and out of mind. Let us never allow that to happen.
Let us learn one thing here. Faith isn't a feeling, or a moment in time. It's not a meeting, or a gathering. Our faith must be a very active part of our everyday life. We must stay connected in our relationship with Jesus, we must pray everyday to have balance and focus to help keep us on track. We need to work at our faith, loving Jesus is a relationship. All relationships need our time, and commitment so they can grow. Another quick thought is that our faith isn't like reading a book, you can't just put a bookmark in it and continue where you left off whenever you feel like it. Like the bicycle rider we must always keep moving along with balance and focus. I hope this little ditty was helpful and interesting.
Stay focused on Jesus, never walk away from Him.
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
The Parable of the Bicycle Rider
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello My Friends,
Now let us look at this most incredible parable I have found. LOL. I know there is no such parable in the bible, but are we sure, I thought I saw St. Peter riding a bicycle in Galilee. Ok, you guys win, but I'll tell you one thing about the parables Jesus taught; He simply used stories talking about the things around Him and us to share spiritual truth. I was thinking about this, just this week while I was driving to Springfield, MA. A bicycle rider in many ways is just like a child of God taking their Christian journey. I know that might not make all that much sense, but don't worry you know I'll fully explain it. I got the gift to gab.. ok in my blogs...type.
Let us look at a bicycle rider for a moment. For the most part biking is an activity that involves your personal input pretty much most of the time. There was this bicycle rider and in order for this person to stay up and not fall they had to keep peddling for the most part. They took this trip and on this trip there were many downhill rolls, at which time the rider didn't need to peddle so much which made the ride easier; balance and awareness of ones surroundings was key at this time. On this trip they also had uphill climbs to make, the one thing different here was that these uphill climbs involved a lot of work and focus in order to make it to the top. After this long trip, the rider took the bicycle and parked it on their front deck. Since the bicycle was out of sight and out of mind, the bicyclist was no longer biking.
In our Christian walk we can look at the bicycle rider and learn from them. Some of the key elements of this parable is: in order to be a successful bicycle rider you must be balanced and aware of your surroundings. On the downhill rides when the ride is easy, there are two elements that help you; balance and staying focused on your surroundings to avoid a crash. On the uphill climbs when times get difficult and prayer is key to make it to the top, we need to stay focused, keep balanced and don't stop peddling, you will make it. The end of the parable is critical for us to understand, we can not take away our connection between us and Jesus. If we park our faith and go about our lives without Jesus, He will become out of sight and out of mind. Let us never allow that to happen.
Let us learn one thing here. Faith isn't a feeling, or a moment in time. It's not a meeting, or a gathering. Our faith must be a very active part of our everyday life. We must stay connected in our relationship with Jesus, we must pray everyday to have balance and focus to help keep us on track. We need to work at our faith, loving Jesus is a relationship. All relationships need our time, and commitment so they can grow. Another quick thought is that our faith isn't like reading a book, you can't just put a bookmark in it and continue where you left off whenever you feel like it. Like the bicycle rider we must always keep moving along with balance and focus. I hope this little ditty was helpful and interesting.
Stay focused on Jesus, never walk away from Him.
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
Your brother in Christ Jesus
And His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS
And His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Death Is Usually Unexpected
Beads of Joy 01-13-10
Death Is Usually Unexpected
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Yes this is an odd topic and title I agree. But it is a true fact. You see how I said it's usually unexpected; well for most people on their death beds or those who know they have a terminal disease and death is knocking on their door, these people are expecting death soon. And in some ways I think that knowledge is very powerful when it comes to our death. I don't see it as a negative. I know many of you are probably reacting all concerned saying something like, "What do you mean you don't see death as a negative?"
Just to be clear, please know that I am not a morbid person fascinated with death. On the contrary I see death as the start of life, as Jesus seen death. Death became the door that opened our end and turned it into a beginning. Jesus defeated death's negative outcome and He turned it into a most joyous time for all those who die loving Jesus. If our actions here and our faith here, it helps determine the fate of our eternity; then it is in our death that we will receive the reward for what we do now. This tiny increment of time (our lives here) holds the final choice of our eternal destination. I do realize I talk a lot about eternity also, but who can resist. Please understand once we are on that side of life the topic becomes pointless.
The time is now to make the choices, to know the direction you so desire and to do all we can do, if we want to live a life that allows us to spend eternity with Jesus. I know we don't know for certain, but in God's judgment upon us and how we lived our lives, our destiny will be determined. Death isn't something we should be afraid of, or look negatively upon. Our lives are so precious in God's sight, so let us show Him, tell Him and live a life pleasing to Him.
Everyone of us will one day stand before God and when we do, let us remember that God loves us so much. Preparation now is wise. You can't plan a trip without knowing the destination, Heaven will be a wonderful place, let's not get lost by taking the wrong flight, or the wrong exit. The guide book is our bible, plus we need our faith, our relationship with Jesus, and deep determination to not let this world lead us astray.
Jesus already defeated death, so there is no need to fear it.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Death Is Usually Unexpected
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Yes this is an odd topic and title I agree. But it is a true fact. You see how I said it's usually unexpected; well for most people on their death beds or those who know they have a terminal disease and death is knocking on their door, these people are expecting death soon. And in some ways I think that knowledge is very powerful when it comes to our death. I don't see it as a negative. I know many of you are probably reacting all concerned saying something like, "What do you mean you don't see death as a negative?"
Just to be clear, please know that I am not a morbid person fascinated with death. On the contrary I see death as the start of life, as Jesus seen death. Death became the door that opened our end and turned it into a beginning. Jesus defeated death's negative outcome and He turned it into a most joyous time for all those who die loving Jesus. If our actions here and our faith here, it helps determine the fate of our eternity; then it is in our death that we will receive the reward for what we do now. This tiny increment of time (our lives here) holds the final choice of our eternal destination. I do realize I talk a lot about eternity also, but who can resist. Please understand once we are on that side of life the topic becomes pointless.
The time is now to make the choices, to know the direction you so desire and to do all we can do, if we want to live a life that allows us to spend eternity with Jesus. I know we don't know for certain, but in God's judgment upon us and how we lived our lives, our destiny will be determined. Death isn't something we should be afraid of, or look negatively upon. Our lives are so precious in God's sight, so let us show Him, tell Him and live a life pleasing to Him.
Everyone of us will one day stand before God and when we do, let us remember that God loves us so much. Preparation now is wise. You can't plan a trip without knowing the destination, Heaven will be a wonderful place, let's not get lost by taking the wrong flight, or the wrong exit. The guide book is our bible, plus we need our faith, our relationship with Jesus, and deep determination to not let this world lead us astray.
Jesus already defeated death, so there is no need to fear it.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
