Beads of Joy 08-31-10
Letter To My Accuser
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This is just a continuation from yesterday's thoughts. After writing yesterday's blog, the response was overwhelming, in a good joyful way from our readers. Thank you all for really taking the time to read all that I share. So today I thought I'd flip flop it around and write a letter to the person who put seeds of hurt into my kids head. I just thank God my kids love me enough and respect me enough, and truly know me well enough; that they can't be brain washed into believing what this person had to say about the dad they really love. Today before I sat down and wrote this, I prayed my rosary, offering it up for this person. I begged Jesus to touch their heart with His love and His Joy. I mean no harm to them, and since I have forgiven them, it is all behind me now. At the end of today's blog this topic will end. But I do know they are a daily reader of my blog. What a perfect way to say what I have to say without pointing any fingers to disgrace at them. God is certainly a good God.
My Dear Accuser,
Just relax this isn't a letter of hatred or anger, or even pity for you. Instead I'd like to take the time to just let you know that inspite all of this, I still love you and will never ever allow the seed of hatred to ever come between us. I will be honest though, your words were hurtful and my kids even took it to heart, wondering, "How could they say that about you daddy?, that was so mean." But that's Ok, please know that I have forgiven you publicly and privately. My kids all know that that is all I wish of them to do also. We forgive, and forget and move on. There is no need for any of us to be so bitter towards one another. Why am I writing this letter you ask? It's simple, I really want you to get closer to Jesus. I don't know all of the situations in your life and I really don't fully understand all your stress. So maybe your comment was a rebound to other issues in your life.
So today I want to help you to get to know my Lord. I am, who I am, because of Him. He is my Savior, my example of who I should be in any and all situations in my life. And forgiveness is a huge part of Jesus' teachings. Please allow Jesus to enter into your life, He only seeks your love. He already loves you. You never have to bring up this issue between us with Him, you are forgiven by me. Let us just move forward together, closer to a most joyful, loving, super cool forgiving God who fills our lives with His mercy, love and grace. You will simply adore Him as I have. And wait till you meet His mom, she is such a darling. No she isn't going to make homemade chocolate chip cookies, though that would be cool; instead she is going to be with us and help lead us, to her Son.
If you'd like, whenever you wish, we could pray the rosary together. If you aren't comfortable with that, simply at 9-9:30pm EST, Mon-Fri come pray the rosary with us. As you well know many of us unite in our community and do just that. You are aware of our Rosary Text Group. Our Lord will know you are there in union with us praising Him. Please know that my door and His door are always open to you. This life will mess anyone up with what is important, and what really don't matter. See once I really got to know Jesus over these past 27 years; the one true thing I got to understand so easily, was that this world, this life was all temporary. Our only objectives here are, to love Him, to praise Him and to honor Him; and of cause to do all we can to draw as many as possible to Him.
I pray that your life is full of happiness and JOY, and that that JOY is overflowing and endless. I can't fully explain that to you in this letter, but I have in recent blogs explained that JOY in great detail. I only wish you the best, and the happiest of times ahead. May our Lord shower your heart, soul and mind with His love and understanding. And may you in the future be like Him in all things and draw as many others as you can to Him. Whenever you are in doubt simply pray the simplest most powerful prayer I pray countless times a day, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ always,
Jimmy
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Letter To My Children
Beads of Joy 08-30-10
Letter To My Children
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
A rather unique title and a rather interesting thought. Today I write a letter to my kids, passing on thoughts that maybe they have already thought about. This blog got sparked by a comment I am well aware of in my life in particular. Though I believe many of you may also experienced such a concern, by words of others spoken to my children. It's been said, "Don't turn out like your dad." Yes a rather hurtful, heartless, very unwise, disturbing thing to know has been said to my kids. Let's be honest, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but saying that is so out of line, words can't even express how rude and even mean that was to do. Mom's this can have easily been said about you to your kids. Ok, on a quick glance at me, maybe I don't have the biggest most expensive house to live in, or the newest most expensive cars to drive in. And yes maybe we don't take two or three or more vacations a year. I can go on and on, but why. The point here is, by this person making this comment, they have judge my "performance" by the decimal point and comma's. I feel sad for that person and I do pray for them even more now. For what matters in this life? All that I obtained for my kids? Or even better off: What is it I have truly given my kids?
My Dear Children,
It's just me, your dad. I know when you were growing up we faced many challenges and we weren't always able to do and have many of the things other kids may have had. My objectives and goals in this life have been really focused around my Lord, your mom and you guys. So with that being said, know that giving you the richest (not money) life, jammed pack full of love, respect, appreciation and a true sense of knowledge about what this life is really all about. I am not a saint, by no stretch of the imagination my dear children, I sin and screw up on all levels and in all situations. But in the end of all that, I pray that it wasn't my words or my wallet that gave you something to grab onto; but rather follow me in my life as an example. Sometimes people can be very hurtful and I do know how some of you feel by the words you have heard. I for starters ask you to forgive that person, I have. No anger of hatred has ever solved anything, and no anger or hatred has ever made anyone more loving and joyful either. So my children as a first step let us turn the other cheek and not be tarnished by them. If they have asked for forgiveness from God, then He has forgiven them. Now it's our time, let us do the same.
I'd like to take a moment and reflect on some of the things I pray about that in your life you have gained by observing mine while you were growing up. Just remember no dad is perfect, no mom knows everything (ok, scratch that last thought). Kids just remember, you know what was important to you growing up, and so did I. For starters, I pray that my example of being a dad who stuck around; and didn't just take off from the family, when me and your mom have challenges and major disagreements. There are many a families out there where dads are gone. I have done everything possible to never let that happen. I see that as a very important example to you guys, especially to my four sons, who one day just might be a dad, be serious in this commitment, it's not a hobby. Another very special example I pray that you see day in and day out, is the love I give your mom. You kids know what the outside world don't always know or see. Me and your mom disagree on many things, we argue sometimes about the most pointless issues and at times live very separate lives on completely opposite schedules. You see we even have times of silence. But you also see, that I don't take anything seriously and I refuse to grow up. Ok, maybe that explains me and your moms friction, hmm?? No matter, I haven't changed in 45 years, still as comical and as immature as ever.
Some other key things, I pray that my example does all the talking for you to see. As a family we always have fun together, playing games, that is video and board games, etc. We also spend time watching movies together from time to time. You guys tend to like blood and gore, and I don't. Best of all when we do eat together, we pray, we talk, we laugh and we really get to deepen our relationship with each other. A very special moment I cherish. Is my work ethic good? You guys all know I bust my tail off everyday doing all I can to provide for our family the best one I can provide for. And here are a few questions that I submit to you, my thoughts and prayers are that all the answers are yes.
-Do I genuinely listen to your problems and challenges?
-Have I taught you the true value of giving from your means not your extra?
-Am I compassionate when you screw up with choices and even words?
-Is my love tough at times, but you appreciate the true love in that authority?
-Have you learned to take responsibility for your actions, by my example?
-Have I shared Jesus and Our Blessed enough, so you love them also?
My sons and my daughter (my Pickles), please know that I love you with all my heart. All I have ever wanted for you was to have a wonderful childhood with fun, interesting, challenging moments; with a foundation of unconditional love that stays forever ingrained in your heart. Jesus first, then others, worry about yourself only when you know you can. If there are four words I pray that you pray everyday as you to journey through life, it's these, "Jesus, I trust in You."
With Love,
Dad xoxo
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Stop Focusing On You
Beads of Joy 08-29-10
Stop Focusing On You
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Sunday is here again, I just love Sunday's. We know that everyday can be the Lord's day if you really want it to be; but regardless, today is officially the Lord's day. Today we are going to be reflecting on Luke 14:1,7-14 (Conduct of Invited Guests and Host). True, sincere, absolute humility comes from the heart, not from a sense of feeling bad about yourself, or thinking less of yourself. In fact, living a life really humble is all about forgetting about yourself. The thing is that you do not have a preoccupation that is all about you, instead you put all others before yourself. And then when we do look inward and see our self, we are truthful and very realistic. Yes we can lie to ourselves if we wish, but why. In being truthful to ourselves, it helps us be more truthful to God and to others. God sees right through our phoniness. So be real and let's stop patting our own selves on our back. There is a reason why we really can't properly pat our own backs the same way when others do. It's because only others can do that.
Avoid pride and selfishness. Really try to keep those two things out of your life, your mind and your thoughts. My little ditty on Pride is this: People Really Into Dignity & Ego. A sad truth about pride, it's one attitude that could really keep us distant from Jesus. In today's gospel we are taught how to curb our pride and how to humble ourselves before others. If we deserve recognition, it is not our place to toot our own horns. The arrogant assumption of being so special is a choice driven by ones pride. Humble yourself before others, do all you can to stay at the end of the line, be the last to pile outside a door, never argue about being first in anything. God knows our place in this life; it's just not our place to identify that place on our own. Pride is the foundation of many sins. We can even be prideful in our spiritual life. We really need to watch what we say, how we say and why we say it. God knows our intention and reasons behind the words we speak. Pride is very destructible and it will eat away at your heart, in time you will not be able to hide the pride you maybe hiding. Soon enough your arrogance will be like a blaring light for all to see. Pray that God guides your heart to His humble feet.
How can we tell if we are more prideful or if we really do have an ego problem? Yes it's a problem in God's eye. I have taken the time to do some research, and here are some thoughts that just might have you thinking if you do have a pride or ego problem. Think about all these things: Do I have pride of my race? Am I arrogant with any particular person or people? Do I praise myself with how truly wonderful I really am? Am I disrespectful to people I see as being below me? Do I have pride of riches, am I so successful that I know it's all because of me and my wonderful knowledge and abilities? Do I belittle people who I see as failures in life and point out all their faults to their child and friends? Did I ever tell someone, don't turn out like that person, instead be like that person? Am I above others and don't mind letting others know it? Am I inconsiderate of others thinking only of myself first? Do I have trouble admitting when I am wrong, knowing that it couldn't be me? And this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many things to consider to really see if we have a problem with pride in our lives. If we feel we maybe slipping into any of these prideful ways, then we need to pray for God to soften your heart and help you to wake up and see the arrogant, rude way you may have been treating others.
Let us embrace true humility and be last in all things. What is the big deal anyway? So you are last to be served, so you park way back in the parking lot, because you were last to pull in. Are you so wonderful and so perfect that the world revolves around you? Please, let's obey what God truly wants us to be, and that is humble before others and before Him. Stop smiling at yourself in the mirror every time you walk by it.. Ah, somebody is laughing and knows they do that. God knows you do that. I know people that do that. I will say that is hysterically funny to watch, but it's also sad. That persons biggest fan of themselves is them self. Please pray that God dulls down the shine you yourself have put on your own armor. Scripture teaches us humility, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:12, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2, "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." James 4:6. Truly the most powerful of the three. Be humble, and pray and ask for God to keep you off that pedestal. He will give you the strength and the wisdom to be humble before Him and others. When in doubt place all your trust in Him by simply praying, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Stop Focusing On You
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Sunday is here again, I just love Sunday's. We know that everyday can be the Lord's day if you really want it to be; but regardless, today is officially the Lord's day. Today we are going to be reflecting on Luke 14:1,7-14 (Conduct of Invited Guests and Host). True, sincere, absolute humility comes from the heart, not from a sense of feeling bad about yourself, or thinking less of yourself. In fact, living a life really humble is all about forgetting about yourself. The thing is that you do not have a preoccupation that is all about you, instead you put all others before yourself. And then when we do look inward and see our self, we are truthful and very realistic. Yes we can lie to ourselves if we wish, but why. In being truthful to ourselves, it helps us be more truthful to God and to others. God sees right through our phoniness. So be real and let's stop patting our own selves on our back. There is a reason why we really can't properly pat our own backs the same way when others do. It's because only others can do that.
Avoid pride and selfishness. Really try to keep those two things out of your life, your mind and your thoughts. My little ditty on Pride is this: People Really Into Dignity & Ego. A sad truth about pride, it's one attitude that could really keep us distant from Jesus. In today's gospel we are taught how to curb our pride and how to humble ourselves before others. If we deserve recognition, it is not our place to toot our own horns. The arrogant assumption of being so special is a choice driven by ones pride. Humble yourself before others, do all you can to stay at the end of the line, be the last to pile outside a door, never argue about being first in anything. God knows our place in this life; it's just not our place to identify that place on our own. Pride is the foundation of many sins. We can even be prideful in our spiritual life. We really need to watch what we say, how we say and why we say it. God knows our intention and reasons behind the words we speak. Pride is very destructible and it will eat away at your heart, in time you will not be able to hide the pride you maybe hiding. Soon enough your arrogance will be like a blaring light for all to see. Pray that God guides your heart to His humble feet.
How can we tell if we are more prideful or if we really do have an ego problem? Yes it's a problem in God's eye. I have taken the time to do some research, and here are some thoughts that just might have you thinking if you do have a pride or ego problem. Think about all these things: Do I have pride of my race? Am I arrogant with any particular person or people? Do I praise myself with how truly wonderful I really am? Am I disrespectful to people I see as being below me? Do I have pride of riches, am I so successful that I know it's all because of me and my wonderful knowledge and abilities? Do I belittle people who I see as failures in life and point out all their faults to their child and friends? Did I ever tell someone, don't turn out like that person, instead be like that person? Am I above others and don't mind letting others know it? Am I inconsiderate of others thinking only of myself first? Do I have trouble admitting when I am wrong, knowing that it couldn't be me? And this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many things to consider to really see if we have a problem with pride in our lives. If we feel we maybe slipping into any of these prideful ways, then we need to pray for God to soften your heart and help you to wake up and see the arrogant, rude way you may have been treating others.
Let us embrace true humility and be last in all things. What is the big deal anyway? So you are last to be served, so you park way back in the parking lot, because you were last to pull in. Are you so wonderful and so perfect that the world revolves around you? Please, let's obey what God truly wants us to be, and that is humble before others and before Him. Stop smiling at yourself in the mirror every time you walk by it.. Ah, somebody is laughing and knows they do that. God knows you do that. I know people that do that. I will say that is hysterically funny to watch, but it's also sad. That persons biggest fan of themselves is them self. Please pray that God dulls down the shine you yourself have put on your own armor. Scripture teaches us humility, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:12, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2, "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." James 4:6. Truly the most powerful of the three. Be humble, and pray and ask for God to keep you off that pedestal. He will give you the strength and the wisdom to be humble before Him and others. When in doubt place all your trust in Him by simply praying, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Saturday, August 28, 2010
According To Their Own Ability
Beads of Joy 08-28-10
According To Their Own Ability
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another spectacular day ahead for all of us to celebrate. Today we will once again spend time reflecting upon a parable. How do you feel about parables? I love them, they are so exciting to learn about aren't they. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 25:14-30 (The Parable of The Talents and Rewards). How have we been rewarded in our life? The blessings we have been given, do we multiply them and share them? Or are we like the servant who buried his talent, and the Master said to him, "You wicked and slothful servant!"? God only desires us to use the talents He gives us, in a good way,and in such a way that multiples them. He don't want us to bury them or hoard them, He wants us to multiply them. Like I have shared in so many other blog's, sharing God's blessings with others is something we all should do. I do it with the Joy, the endless Joy I am so blessed to have in my life. I have a literally an endless spring spewing from my heart. No matter how much I give away, the Lord continues to bless me with more and more and more. We must give away our blessings to others, to bless them; so that in turn, we will be blessed by our kindness and love for others. In simplistic translational terms; God gave us the talents, we are to multiply them, and then upon His return, He will give us what will be our reward; for doing what is good with what He has blessed us with.
God has certainly entrusted us with the unfaithful, and those who do not believe in Him. We are to at least try to plant the seed of "interest" as often as we can; not only by our words, but even more importantly by our actions. We know so many people of different faiths and different political parties tend to not honor Jesus. If we can only harvest our gifts and plant our seeds deep into the lives of the unbeliever. I don't like to argue against anyone to "make them" believe what I believe. To me, that's just not being a Catholic. Rather, by the way I live my life and the way I do things because of my faith, I only wish that they to desire it. In the past I shared a story about a prisoner, as quick recap, I will share: "There were two war prisoners in a Japanese jail cell. One was from Japan and the other one was an American. Well being it was a Japanese prisoner who was fighting with the Americans against them, the Japanese prisoner was treated much more harshly. Each day they would beat him almost to death, then put him back in his cell. Once there the American prisoners cleaned his wounds and help feed him. Well one day the American knew that the Japanese prisoner wasn't going to probably make it through the night. So he shared Jesus with him. The Japanese prisoner said, "If this Jesus you speak of is as kind and loving and as caring as you are, I want to believe in Him and love Him."
Let us be like this American prisoner was, completely and willingly giving of himself in the service and love of an other. Solemn judgment will certainly come upon those who bury their talents from others. Remember the more we have been given, the more we will be expected with the responsibility to do what is right. There is no doubt God will be saying to us, "Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them." What we have done with what we have been given, we will be measured. You know it's the same in abortion. In all pregnancies, no matter how they have came about; God has blessed that little child in it's mother's womb to be His child, to love Him, honor Him, serve Him and draw others to Him. When they kill them, they "bury" God's blessing to us, and refuse to allow that wonderful gift of life to become a child in our society. A blessing beyond blessing to all of us.
What lesson have we learned fun this parable? Do we now feel a certain sense of responsibility to share our talents, our possessions, our money, our skills, our joy, our love with others? Here is our chance to make a huge difference in this world. Let's not pass up this opportunity to further share and spread the ministry of our Lord with as many people as we possibly can. There is no doubt that God has given us the wisdom, the insight, the foresight, and the grace to be able to do this everyday. Trusting in Him and moving forward in having faith in Him; will help guide and allow all things to come to pass at the stage in which we are all at in our own lives. Fully trust in Him, do not allow this world to entangle you in its web of selfishness and pride; but rather entangle yourself into God's word, and only seek to be more like Jesus. Simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
According To Their Own Ability
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another spectacular day ahead for all of us to celebrate. Today we will once again spend time reflecting upon a parable. How do you feel about parables? I love them, they are so exciting to learn about aren't they. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 25:14-30 (The Parable of The Talents and Rewards). How have we been rewarded in our life? The blessings we have been given, do we multiply them and share them? Or are we like the servant who buried his talent, and the Master said to him, "You wicked and slothful servant!"? God only desires us to use the talents He gives us, in a good way,and in such a way that multiples them. He don't want us to bury them or hoard them, He wants us to multiply them. Like I have shared in so many other blog's, sharing God's blessings with others is something we all should do. I do it with the Joy, the endless Joy I am so blessed to have in my life. I have a literally an endless spring spewing from my heart. No matter how much I give away, the Lord continues to bless me with more and more and more. We must give away our blessings to others, to bless them; so that in turn, we will be blessed by our kindness and love for others. In simplistic translational terms; God gave us the talents, we are to multiply them, and then upon His return, He will give us what will be our reward; for doing what is good with what He has blessed us with.
God has certainly entrusted us with the unfaithful, and those who do not believe in Him. We are to at least try to plant the seed of "interest" as often as we can; not only by our words, but even more importantly by our actions. We know so many people of different faiths and different political parties tend to not honor Jesus. If we can only harvest our gifts and plant our seeds deep into the lives of the unbeliever. I don't like to argue against anyone to "make them" believe what I believe. To me, that's just not being a Catholic. Rather, by the way I live my life and the way I do things because of my faith, I only wish that they to desire it. In the past I shared a story about a prisoner, as quick recap, I will share: "There were two war prisoners in a Japanese jail cell. One was from Japan and the other one was an American. Well being it was a Japanese prisoner who was fighting with the Americans against them, the Japanese prisoner was treated much more harshly. Each day they would beat him almost to death, then put him back in his cell. Once there the American prisoners cleaned his wounds and help feed him. Well one day the American knew that the Japanese prisoner wasn't going to probably make it through the night. So he shared Jesus with him. The Japanese prisoner said, "If this Jesus you speak of is as kind and loving and as caring as you are, I want to believe in Him and love Him."
Let us be like this American prisoner was, completely and willingly giving of himself in the service and love of an other. Solemn judgment will certainly come upon those who bury their talents from others. Remember the more we have been given, the more we will be expected with the responsibility to do what is right. There is no doubt God will be saying to us, "Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them." What we have done with what we have been given, we will be measured. You know it's the same in abortion. In all pregnancies, no matter how they have came about; God has blessed that little child in it's mother's womb to be His child, to love Him, honor Him, serve Him and draw others to Him. When they kill them, they "bury" God's blessing to us, and refuse to allow that wonderful gift of life to become a child in our society. A blessing beyond blessing to all of us.
What lesson have we learned fun this parable? Do we now feel a certain sense of responsibility to share our talents, our possessions, our money, our skills, our joy, our love with others? Here is our chance to make a huge difference in this world. Let's not pass up this opportunity to further share and spread the ministry of our Lord with as many people as we possibly can. There is no doubt that God has given us the wisdom, the insight, the foresight, and the grace to be able to do this everyday. Trusting in Him and moving forward in having faith in Him; will help guide and allow all things to come to pass at the stage in which we are all at in our own lives. Fully trust in Him, do not allow this world to entangle you in its web of selfishness and pride; but rather entangle yourself into God's word, and only seek to be more like Jesus. Simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Friday, August 27, 2010
A Sincere Love of Suffering
Beads of Joy 08-27-10
A Sincere Love of Suffering
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
This has been a truly dynamic week indeed. We have spoke about suffering in a little bit of a different light then it usually gets credit for. We spoke of Jesus ruling in our hearts; no expectation in return for our love; the dynamic exciting truth about our souls awakening, and plunging into the depth of our suffering straight to God's love. Today I'd like to really try and help us think more spiritually about our own sufferings. Our Lord does not want us to suffer, He does not seek to hold the iron to our skin and then only pull away once we scream. Our Lord is by means a God who torch's those who love Him, or anyone else for that matter. God wants our love no doubt about that, He loved us before we were even born, so His love for us is based on just that, His love for us. He has no prejudgment as to who we are and if He will love us. We are loved by God unconditionally, in turn we should love Him. Here is a very encouraging scripture, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12.
Let's think about this for a moment. When we suffer, exactly what it is usually we are suffering from? Ok, some of us suffer from physical aliments, body aches that don't cease, maybe even a disease that literally rips us apart, eating away at our body. Then we also have emotional suffering, maybe in a relationship, or the way we are treated in general by loved ones or spouses, or even children. Our suffering is pretty in-depth when you begin to look at all the ways we can suffer in this life. I know I am still probably over looking a couple other ways we suffer here. Well the bottom line is all these aliments do have one thing in common, they are of this world. They have nothing to do with spending eternity in Heaven with Jesus. In fact if we are really fully focused on Jesus in our life; these sufferings draw us in closer to Him and if we don't have any faith at all, sometimes we are brought to His feet for the fist time. That thought alone is the reason why we must embrace our sufferings. It is through our sufferings that we seek God even more in this life.
Now, please don't misunderstand this reflection. I am not saying to seek out suffering or poverty or risk it all and lose it. But what I am saying is, when or if you are faced with these unexpected crisis, embrace them as blessings that draw you even closer to our Lord. Think about this, have you ever said to someone, maybe a spouse or your child, "I'd willingly die for you to save you." I know I have said this many times through the years, and I really mean it. Let's face it, the love we have for one another is very similar to one Jesus has for us. Even though we are not tormented or beat, or put up on a cross, we still desire that, if we can save someone we love. See, that's so similar to the love God has for us to save us. Let us again reflect upon some fascinating scripture, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8. In this life we are here for many reasons, but mostly to love, honor and serve our Lord. We are His, we were bought for a price. Let us embrace our own sufferings and offer all the pain to Him, who strengthens me.
So lets continue to embrace suffering and pain, all in the name of Jesus. Let us also plant as many seeds of Joy, that we can when we speak of Jesus and share Him with anybody. But let us keep in mind, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21. I love that scripture. The "die" is referring to ourselves and our own selfishness. When we cry and complain about our own sufferings we are selfish. Yes I guess we deserve the rightly to complain about them, but when we do it is selfishness. We must die to that part of ourselves that seeks out pity and self focus and give all our pains, and all our long suffering to Jesus. We only get one chance in this life to make things right with God, let's not screw it up. Let's do our best to never allow anything in this life to step between us and God. Nothing. I fall constantly, but try when you are suffering to not complain about it, but rather thank God for it.
In the end, it's the Lord for sure
And suffering will come, we must endure,
In the pain and trials we share
We must put other first, for them to care,
So as we finish this day a new
Just tell tell the Lord, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
A Sincere Love of Suffering
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
This has been a truly dynamic week indeed. We have spoke about suffering in a little bit of a different light then it usually gets credit for. We spoke of Jesus ruling in our hearts; no expectation in return for our love; the dynamic exciting truth about our souls awakening, and plunging into the depth of our suffering straight to God's love. Today I'd like to really try and help us think more spiritually about our own sufferings. Our Lord does not want us to suffer, He does not seek to hold the iron to our skin and then only pull away once we scream. Our Lord is by means a God who torch's those who love Him, or anyone else for that matter. God wants our love no doubt about that, He loved us before we were even born, so His love for us is based on just that, His love for us. He has no prejudgment as to who we are and if He will love us. We are loved by God unconditionally, in turn we should love Him. Here is a very encouraging scripture, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12.
Let's think about this for a moment. When we suffer, exactly what it is usually we are suffering from? Ok, some of us suffer from physical aliments, body aches that don't cease, maybe even a disease that literally rips us apart, eating away at our body. Then we also have emotional suffering, maybe in a relationship, or the way we are treated in general by loved ones or spouses, or even children. Our suffering is pretty in-depth when you begin to look at all the ways we can suffer in this life. I know I am still probably over looking a couple other ways we suffer here. Well the bottom line is all these aliments do have one thing in common, they are of this world. They have nothing to do with spending eternity in Heaven with Jesus. In fact if we are really fully focused on Jesus in our life; these sufferings draw us in closer to Him and if we don't have any faith at all, sometimes we are brought to His feet for the fist time. That thought alone is the reason why we must embrace our sufferings. It is through our sufferings that we seek God even more in this life.
Now, please don't misunderstand this reflection. I am not saying to seek out suffering or poverty or risk it all and lose it. But what I am saying is, when or if you are faced with these unexpected crisis, embrace them as blessings that draw you even closer to our Lord. Think about this, have you ever said to someone, maybe a spouse or your child, "I'd willingly die for you to save you." I know I have said this many times through the years, and I really mean it. Let's face it, the love we have for one another is very similar to one Jesus has for us. Even though we are not tormented or beat, or put up on a cross, we still desire that, if we can save someone we love. See, that's so similar to the love God has for us to save us. Let us again reflect upon some fascinating scripture, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8. In this life we are here for many reasons, but mostly to love, honor and serve our Lord. We are His, we were bought for a price. Let us embrace our own sufferings and offer all the pain to Him, who strengthens me.
So lets continue to embrace suffering and pain, all in the name of Jesus. Let us also plant as many seeds of Joy, that we can when we speak of Jesus and share Him with anybody. But let us keep in mind, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21. I love that scripture. The "die" is referring to ourselves and our own selfishness. When we cry and complain about our own sufferings we are selfish. Yes I guess we deserve the rightly to complain about them, but when we do it is selfishness. We must die to that part of ourselves that seeks out pity and self focus and give all our pains, and all our long suffering to Jesus. We only get one chance in this life to make things right with God, let's not screw it up. Let's do our best to never allow anything in this life to step between us and God. Nothing. I fall constantly, but try when you are suffering to not complain about it, but rather thank God for it.
In the end, it's the Lord for sure
And suffering will come, we must endure,
In the pain and trials we share
We must put other first, for them to care,
So as we finish this day a new
Just tell tell the Lord, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Plunge Into The Abyss
Beads of Joy 08-26-10
Plunge Into The Abyss of Deity
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
Are our hearts able to handle this depth of love for our Lord? Can we possibly even imagine what that is, let alone actually be able to do that? Plunge into the abyss, a rather interesting almost scary thought, don't you think? Let us have no fear and let us allow our hearts and minds and our souls to fully engulf God's love for us. The longing we seek once found in God, is now able to literally leap, plunge, dive; whatever word best helps you understand that this is a head first trusting move on our part to go for it. For complete lack of enough words in our language, this blog will be limited to the fullest extent in which it is trying to share, that great love we now have in our hearts. Every single sense knows and recognizes God and once fully aware that God is there our very soul plunges into the sweetness of God's love. We must to the best of our ability, allow that to happen. Our lives will never be the same. I do my best to plunge into His love every single chance and opportunity I get, sometimes, several times a day.
Search the scriptures, do not hesitate to allow your soul to dig deeper and deeper into His love. That is the part of the concept of the abyss, don't stop, strive for a deeper and deeper love for Him. "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ" Philippians 3:7-8. That's the true type of plunge that abandons everything for Jesus. We must not turn back and even consider what we have lost or surrendered once we have fully given all that we are to following Him. Jesus, the one called the Christ is now and always shall be thee single most desired part of our lives. He alone must be able to fully consume us in thought, desire, deed, charity, really truly in everything.
In this plunge we must not sit silently on the side line. This isn't about a quiet, simple, uninvolved life. On the contrary, this is all about getting even more involved with helping others; defending our Lord and sharing with as many people as we possibly can, about this dynamic exciting part of who we are. We are who we are because it is Jesus who fills our lives and gives us the strength to forge forward in any and all situations that we face. Here are two verses I hold near and dear to my heart and in my life, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13. It is through that strength and faith, that I am able to plunge so deeply into unknown waters. Jesus has my complete attention and trust in whatever it is that He is doing in my life.
There is no love on this planet or in this universe that can compare to the love our Lord has for us. Let us do all we can to try to love Him with the same measure and therefore by His commandment love others in that way also. I know that's a big request, but hey, it's all about Jesus, so let's just do it. Nothing is more important in this life than to spend our life loving Him. When we are suffering, we find ourselves drawn to Jesus. I wonder why we do? Maybe it's because it was through His love for us that He had to suffer for us, in order to save us. After all it was His death, that brought us life. Another very in-depth mystery to understand, yet so profound that our soul knows and understands that, and in that, translates it into love. To allow our soul to freely plunge into God's love is only a blessing I seem to have no words to express. This life we live is exciting and fun, and unpredictable; let us embrace every pain, every aliment, every form of suffering and release the negative sides of them and continue to hold them tightly. Let us transform these moments of pain and suffering, into moments of Joy and Celebration.
When in doubt,
Just shout it out.
Don't hold back,
Show no lack.
Say it loud, it's fully true,
Jesus, I trust in You.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Plunge Into The Abyss of Deity
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
Are our hearts able to handle this depth of love for our Lord? Can we possibly even imagine what that is, let alone actually be able to do that? Plunge into the abyss, a rather interesting almost scary thought, don't you think? Let us have no fear and let us allow our hearts and minds and our souls to fully engulf God's love for us. The longing we seek once found in God, is now able to literally leap, plunge, dive; whatever word best helps you understand that this is a head first trusting move on our part to go for it. For complete lack of enough words in our language, this blog will be limited to the fullest extent in which it is trying to share, that great love we now have in our hearts. Every single sense knows and recognizes God and once fully aware that God is there our very soul plunges into the sweetness of God's love. We must to the best of our ability, allow that to happen. Our lives will never be the same. I do my best to plunge into His love every single chance and opportunity I get, sometimes, several times a day.
Search the scriptures, do not hesitate to allow your soul to dig deeper and deeper into His love. That is the part of the concept of the abyss, don't stop, strive for a deeper and deeper love for Him. "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ" Philippians 3:7-8. That's the true type of plunge that abandons everything for Jesus. We must not turn back and even consider what we have lost or surrendered once we have fully given all that we are to following Him. Jesus, the one called the Christ is now and always shall be thee single most desired part of our lives. He alone must be able to fully consume us in thought, desire, deed, charity, really truly in everything.
In this plunge we must not sit silently on the side line. This isn't about a quiet, simple, uninvolved life. On the contrary, this is all about getting even more involved with helping others; defending our Lord and sharing with as many people as we possibly can, about this dynamic exciting part of who we are. We are who we are because it is Jesus who fills our lives and gives us the strength to forge forward in any and all situations that we face. Here are two verses I hold near and dear to my heart and in my life, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13. It is through that strength and faith, that I am able to plunge so deeply into unknown waters. Jesus has my complete attention and trust in whatever it is that He is doing in my life.
There is no love on this planet or in this universe that can compare to the love our Lord has for us. Let us do all we can to try to love Him with the same measure and therefore by His commandment love others in that way also. I know that's a big request, but hey, it's all about Jesus, so let's just do it. Nothing is more important in this life than to spend our life loving Him. When we are suffering, we find ourselves drawn to Jesus. I wonder why we do? Maybe it's because it was through His love for us that He had to suffer for us, in order to save us. After all it was His death, that brought us life. Another very in-depth mystery to understand, yet so profound that our soul knows and understands that, and in that, translates it into love. To allow our soul to freely plunge into God's love is only a blessing I seem to have no words to express. This life we live is exciting and fun, and unpredictable; let us embrace every pain, every aliment, every form of suffering and release the negative sides of them and continue to hold them tightly. Let us transform these moments of pain and suffering, into moments of Joy and Celebration.
When in doubt,
Just shout it out.
Don't hold back,
Show no lack.
Say it loud, it's fully true,
Jesus, I trust in You.
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Our Soul Is Now Awaken
Beads of Joy 08-25-10
Our Soul Is Now Awaken
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
This has been a really exciting week. Yes suffering is the main focus, and even though that word and it's meaning aren't exciting, the real meaning of that in God's terms is. It seems as though when we suffer, we are drawn more directly and more quickly to God's feet. Why is that? I strongly believe that if we are weakened by our suffering, all we can do is trust that God will heal us and console us. So in that trust, we tend to run to Him for compassion and relief in what it is we are enduring. I believe that is why we find more poor, struggling people clinging to God; they don't have wealth to cling to, for security of what tomorrow will bring to them in their lives. Another incredible aspect in our suffering and reliance in God is that our soul is vibrantly in a most exciting way, awoken. And in that awakening our soul desires God more fervently every single hour of every single day. This is one huge reason for me, that my soul is so in love with God. He has filled me with an unending, overflowing, endlessly bottomless cup of Joy. I can not be contained, my soul is ecstatic and only desires to be in God's presence every single day. This explains a lot about my goofy, happy, joyful ways.
I am sold out to Jesus, yes I drank that special lemonade with Jesus' name on it. I am hooked, I am a loyal follower. I am so wide awaken spiritually, that this world of blindness towards God baffles me. How can anyone not be so overjoyed and so over whelmed with love, by the mere thought of God in their hearts? Simply thinking of Jesus, His name, His mission, His love for us, His mother, His word, and so much more; set my soul on fire for Him. I do not need to think about anything else to be happy each day. Yes I love and adore my family, yes I am grateful to be able to take care of them; but with all that said, I am even more grateful and in love with God. Nothing in my life can over-ride and come before my love for my Lord. There is nothing more precious to me than loving my Lord and following Him. I know that is against what some of you might believe, but no matter, to me Jesus takes the first spot in my life. And this is why, "Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. And here is an even more direct statement from Jesus, "I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life." Mark 10:29-30.
The excitement inside of me literally bubbles over every single day. Sometimes I just wish I could harness it and redirect it to help others. I guess that is why I enjoy sharing so much. My soul is so awaken that is must keep sharing all it can about the one and only true source of love and joy I have inside my heart, with everyone I possibly can. I am completely, like I have said before, "sold out", there is no compromise in my love for my Lord. I love others in the same capacity that God has taught us to; like He loves us. But my love for Him is rooted solidly in Him. And spending time in scripture makes it so easy to love Jesus to the depths that I love Him. "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12. Please seriously redirect your life and fully focus on Jesus, His word, His miracles, His love, His mercy, His kindness. Do not allow anything or anyone to take His place. Allow that awoken soul of yours to pursue and seek out Jesus every single day. If you do, you will find yourself, pondering on His words, His life, His everything, every single hour of every single day. Jesus' love for me, is my drug..
Just as the universe has absolutely no visible end, nor does my love for my Lord have any sort of a visible end. You to can embrace this type of love. The vast endless love I speak of exists in all of us. When the soul finds God, it is jolted into this state of awareness that can't be contained or stopped. It is so engulfed by the very thought of God, that it charges forward only seeking God. I say, let it go, don't stop that feeling you have to be close with our Lord. I know the world makes us sometimes feel out of place or weird, I guess. Honestly, who cares what the world thinks. Just strive forward and don't stop until you have found God in your life. And then once you have found Him, never ever let Him go. If you were given a choice after spending a lifetime seeking God and you found him and you embraced Him; and at the same time the world offered you a billion dollars, but you had to let go of God in order to embrace the billion, what would you do? I pray that you didn't even hesitate with your answer. Screw the billion, never ever under any circumstances do we let go of God for any reason. Trust in Him and all that He is in our lives, and pray this simple prayer of love to Him every single day, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Our Soul Is Now Awaken
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
This has been a really exciting week. Yes suffering is the main focus, and even though that word and it's meaning aren't exciting, the real meaning of that in God's terms is. It seems as though when we suffer, we are drawn more directly and more quickly to God's feet. Why is that? I strongly believe that if we are weakened by our suffering, all we can do is trust that God will heal us and console us. So in that trust, we tend to run to Him for compassion and relief in what it is we are enduring. I believe that is why we find more poor, struggling people clinging to God; they don't have wealth to cling to, for security of what tomorrow will bring to them in their lives. Another incredible aspect in our suffering and reliance in God is that our soul is vibrantly in a most exciting way, awoken. And in that awakening our soul desires God more fervently every single hour of every single day. This is one huge reason for me, that my soul is so in love with God. He has filled me with an unending, overflowing, endlessly bottomless cup of Joy. I can not be contained, my soul is ecstatic and only desires to be in God's presence every single day. This explains a lot about my goofy, happy, joyful ways.
I am sold out to Jesus, yes I drank that special lemonade with Jesus' name on it. I am hooked, I am a loyal follower. I am so wide awaken spiritually, that this world of blindness towards God baffles me. How can anyone not be so overjoyed and so over whelmed with love, by the mere thought of God in their hearts? Simply thinking of Jesus, His name, His mission, His love for us, His mother, His word, and so much more; set my soul on fire for Him. I do not need to think about anything else to be happy each day. Yes I love and adore my family, yes I am grateful to be able to take care of them; but with all that said, I am even more grateful and in love with God. Nothing in my life can over-ride and come before my love for my Lord. There is nothing more precious to me than loving my Lord and following Him. I know that is against what some of you might believe, but no matter, to me Jesus takes the first spot in my life. And this is why, "Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. And here is an even more direct statement from Jesus, "I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life." Mark 10:29-30.
The excitement inside of me literally bubbles over every single day. Sometimes I just wish I could harness it and redirect it to help others. I guess that is why I enjoy sharing so much. My soul is so awaken that is must keep sharing all it can about the one and only true source of love and joy I have inside my heart, with everyone I possibly can. I am completely, like I have said before, "sold out", there is no compromise in my love for my Lord. I love others in the same capacity that God has taught us to; like He loves us. But my love for Him is rooted solidly in Him. And spending time in scripture makes it so easy to love Jesus to the depths that I love Him. "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12. Please seriously redirect your life and fully focus on Jesus, His word, His miracles, His love, His mercy, His kindness. Do not allow anything or anyone to take His place. Allow that awoken soul of yours to pursue and seek out Jesus every single day. If you do, you will find yourself, pondering on His words, His life, His everything, every single hour of every single day. Jesus' love for me, is my drug..
Just as the universe has absolutely no visible end, nor does my love for my Lord have any sort of a visible end. You to can embrace this type of love. The vast endless love I speak of exists in all of us. When the soul finds God, it is jolted into this state of awareness that can't be contained or stopped. It is so engulfed by the very thought of God, that it charges forward only seeking God. I say, let it go, don't stop that feeling you have to be close with our Lord. I know the world makes us sometimes feel out of place or weird, I guess. Honestly, who cares what the world thinks. Just strive forward and don't stop until you have found God in your life. And then once you have found Him, never ever let Him go. If you were given a choice after spending a lifetime seeking God and you found him and you embraced Him; and at the same time the world offered you a billion dollars, but you had to let go of God in order to embrace the billion, what would you do? I pray that you didn't even hesitate with your answer. Screw the billion, never ever under any circumstances do we let go of God for any reason. Trust in Him and all that He is in our lives, and pray this simple prayer of love to Him every single day, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Expect Nothing In Return
Beads of Joy 08-24-10
Expect Nothing In Return
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
On this day let us reflect upon the privilege to love and serve and honor our Lord in our suffering. When we go full steam ahead in our suffering and we offer it all up to Him for His glory for ourselves and for others; we must not seek anything in return. Our souls have a desire to "cling" to Jesus, and in doing so the soul is completely satisfied in being in His presence alone. Most of this is far from the typical understanding that we can relate to in this life. So many people do things for the mere thought of a reward of getting something in return. Well, that's not so when it comes to our love for our Lord. The pleasure to able to serve and love Him, is our reward, any thing else would be considered to me to be; arrogant presumption. God does not do things the way mankind does. In other words to God, He don't play the "I'll scratch your back so you can scratch mine." mentality. God encompasses many aspects of our lives when He places judgment upon us. I don't have the list handy?, dah, none of us do. LOL. But we do know that God knows our hearts, our intentions and our reasons for doing the things we do.
We might consider this as a way to understand why the soul does not expect anything in return for its suffering that it has endured. Look at the soldiers in most armies and other branches of defense, at least in our country. Now I have never served at all in any capacity, but I have family members and many many friends who have. I have talked to them about the lifestyle and the day to day experiences that they have. I am very patriotic and so I wish to understand how and why the brave men and women so loyally defend our freedoms. One thing they all seem to touch on was their respect for and loyalty to their commanding officers. They have said to me, that is, different people in different conversations say that they were honored to serve a certain commander, and that being loyal to them was important, in doing all that they asked of them. Again another very insightful thought that we can transform into our own spiritual lives and the same relationship our souls have with God.
That simple desire to obey and to be obedient to God alone without any expectation is truly loyalty and love in it's purest form. If we only loved someone, only if they loved us back, what kind of love would that be? We love in love, no matter what in most instances. Yes the love in return is spectacular and truly delightful. But we don't, or at least we shouldn't love, only so that we get loved in return. Jesus taught us and we are to do like He has done in loving others. Here is some scriptural insight, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5. This also confirms the real person hood of the child in the womb, and how Gods hand is on every one of our conceptions. Another insightful scripture, "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world." John 17:24.
So in our suffering and the pain we endure, we must never expect anything in return. Yes we love Jesus, yes we give Him every bit of who we are, yes we desire His love. But knowing all that we must still never "expect" anything in return. He freely loves us, we must freely love Him. Love isn't all about, I'll do for you, if you do for me. Rather love is about the sacrifice of giving and giving and giving; for no other reason except for the fact that we love that person. Same goes for God. Let us never arrogantly expect something from God, merely because we gave our love to Him. We must find delight alone in the fact that we have the privilege to love Him. Nothing else about that should have to delight our hearts, even though it does. Like the loyal soldier, we must be thrilled to be able to serve Him. Our loyalty must be ingrained into our hearts. We only wish to serve Him, because of our love and devotion to Him. The mere thought alone is our reward. This is so important in our daily walk with our Lord. If we give Him love over and over again, pretty much non-stop throughout everyday; then we won't be wasting time and energy looking for what it is He is doing for us, because I am worshiping Him. Trust in His love, kindness and mercy, that we know He has for us. Pray these words every single day, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Expect Nothing In Return
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
On this day let us reflect upon the privilege to love and serve and honor our Lord in our suffering. When we go full steam ahead in our suffering and we offer it all up to Him for His glory for ourselves and for others; we must not seek anything in return. Our souls have a desire to "cling" to Jesus, and in doing so the soul is completely satisfied in being in His presence alone. Most of this is far from the typical understanding that we can relate to in this life. So many people do things for the mere thought of a reward of getting something in return. Well, that's not so when it comes to our love for our Lord. The pleasure to able to serve and love Him, is our reward, any thing else would be considered to me to be; arrogant presumption. God does not do things the way mankind does. In other words to God, He don't play the "I'll scratch your back so you can scratch mine." mentality. God encompasses many aspects of our lives when He places judgment upon us. I don't have the list handy?, dah, none of us do. LOL. But we do know that God knows our hearts, our intentions and our reasons for doing the things we do.
We might consider this as a way to understand why the soul does not expect anything in return for its suffering that it has endured. Look at the soldiers in most armies and other branches of defense, at least in our country. Now I have never served at all in any capacity, but I have family members and many many friends who have. I have talked to them about the lifestyle and the day to day experiences that they have. I am very patriotic and so I wish to understand how and why the brave men and women so loyally defend our freedoms. One thing they all seem to touch on was their respect for and loyalty to their commanding officers. They have said to me, that is, different people in different conversations say that they were honored to serve a certain commander, and that being loyal to them was important, in doing all that they asked of them. Again another very insightful thought that we can transform into our own spiritual lives and the same relationship our souls have with God.
That simple desire to obey and to be obedient to God alone without any expectation is truly loyalty and love in it's purest form. If we only loved someone, only if they loved us back, what kind of love would that be? We love in love, no matter what in most instances. Yes the love in return is spectacular and truly delightful. But we don't, or at least we shouldn't love, only so that we get loved in return. Jesus taught us and we are to do like He has done in loving others. Here is some scriptural insight, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5. This also confirms the real person hood of the child in the womb, and how Gods hand is on every one of our conceptions. Another insightful scripture, "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world." John 17:24.
So in our suffering and the pain we endure, we must never expect anything in return. Yes we love Jesus, yes we give Him every bit of who we are, yes we desire His love. But knowing all that we must still never "expect" anything in return. He freely loves us, we must freely love Him. Love isn't all about, I'll do for you, if you do for me. Rather love is about the sacrifice of giving and giving and giving; for no other reason except for the fact that we love that person. Same goes for God. Let us never arrogantly expect something from God, merely because we gave our love to Him. We must find delight alone in the fact that we have the privilege to love Him. Nothing else about that should have to delight our hearts, even though it does. Like the loyal soldier, we must be thrilled to be able to serve Him. Our loyalty must be ingrained into our hearts. We only wish to serve Him, because of our love and devotion to Him. The mere thought alone is our reward. This is so important in our daily walk with our Lord. If we give Him love over and over again, pretty much non-stop throughout everyday; then we won't be wasting time and energy looking for what it is He is doing for us, because I am worshiping Him. Trust in His love, kindness and mercy, that we know He has for us. Pray these words every single day, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Monday, August 23, 2010
Jesus Must Rule In Our Heart
Beads of Joy 08-23-10
Jesus Must Rule In Our Heart
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
If there is one thing the we must fervently seek for, it's the love and desire to have Jesus rule in our hearts. Many will be faced with suffering to some degree in this life. I see it this way; some of us suffer financially, physically and emotionally, while others of us don't virtually suffer at all. I often times wonder why. Meaning, why many don't suffer, while others do. I think I really understand why now. Our Lord has blessed us both in the suffering and the non-suffering. The suffering embrace the burden of their pain for themselves and for others; while the non-suffering help and assist the suffering. The only way this is possible, at least from a blessings point of view is that our Lord must be first in our lives. Jesus must rule number one in our hearts, no exceptions are allowed, nor are any excuses accepted. We all get one chance to live this life and only one chance to get it right. God will inevitable judge the stewardship of our suffering and the stewardship of the non-suffering. If we can't walk because of suffering, we need to kneel; if we can walk, then we should be running to the service of those suffering, in the name of Jesus. We all have been appointed in some way to serve our Lord.
Let us embrace scripture through this weeks special series, let us also see how God through His word; has taught us to embrace and love our suffering. To begin with, we will reflect upon Romans 5:3-5, "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Interesting "Rejoice in our suffering": wow, aren't they powerful words? The true and only way we could possibly have the grace to do that is by having Jesus' love rule in our hearts, minds and lives. It is that love for Jesus that teaches us to love and embrace the pain of our suffering, as He did for us. We must allow His love to literally move into our hearts and take over. We must allow Him to guide us. God alone sent His only Son to suffer and die to save us from our own demise. It was that suffering that conquered the evils of this world. So with that said, it is our suffering that will help us conquer our unbelief and fear and pain in this world, and in this life.
This is a bit tangent away from all this, but the words really stand out in my life and mind hearing it. I am a huge Star Trek fan, of only the original cast of cause, and the movies they made. Anyhow, in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier, Kirk speaking to Bones said, "Bones, you're a doctor. You know that pain and guilt can't be taken away with the wave of a magic wand. They're things we carry with us, the things that make us who we are. If we lose them, we lose ourselves. I don't want my pain taken away. I need my pain." Rather insightful, even for a Star Trek movie hey. Pain and guilt can only be taken away by the love Jesus has given us, and the pain and suffering we experience throughout life does make us who we are. If you really read a lot of my writings, you'll see that I stay one hundred percent focused on Jesus. And in doing that, I can turn all my experiences and interactions into something that leads us back to Jesus. I feel blessed to be able to do that. But there is a method to how I so easily do that.
I had a rather interesting chat last week with a very dear and precious sister in the Lord. I explained to her how I live my life so easily and simply focused on Jesus. So many teach us and share with us how important it is to spend 15 minutes or 30 minutes or an hour a day with God, or our Lord. I can't help but to agree with those teachings. But I got to tell you, in my life for me, that wasn't enough time each day, I wanted Jesus even more. To me Jesus runs through my veins, I was in love. So early on, many many years ago, as far back as 1983; I decided on a new way to give my time to my Lord. And this way of worship and love and devotion will allow Jesus to rule my heart first and foremost every single day. Instead of minutes or hours, I simply give Jesus the entire 24 hours every day. And then I fit into my day all the other things I must do. That way I don't have to try to fit Jesus in, but rather all that I do is about Him. That's one secret as to how I stay so easily focused every day. You to can do the same. Trust and love works miracles in our lives, pray to Jesus unceasingly, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Jesus Must Rule In Our Heart
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Love of Suffering II
Hello Everyone,
If there is one thing the we must fervently seek for, it's the love and desire to have Jesus rule in our hearts. Many will be faced with suffering to some degree in this life. I see it this way; some of us suffer financially, physically and emotionally, while others of us don't virtually suffer at all. I often times wonder why. Meaning, why many don't suffer, while others do. I think I really understand why now. Our Lord has blessed us both in the suffering and the non-suffering. The suffering embrace the burden of their pain for themselves and for others; while the non-suffering help and assist the suffering. The only way this is possible, at least from a blessings point of view is that our Lord must be first in our lives. Jesus must rule number one in our hearts, no exceptions are allowed, nor are any excuses accepted. We all get one chance to live this life and only one chance to get it right. God will inevitable judge the stewardship of our suffering and the stewardship of the non-suffering. If we can't walk because of suffering, we need to kneel; if we can walk, then we should be running to the service of those suffering, in the name of Jesus. We all have been appointed in some way to serve our Lord.
Let us embrace scripture through this weeks special series, let us also see how God through His word; has taught us to embrace and love our suffering. To begin with, we will reflect upon Romans 5:3-5, "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Interesting "Rejoice in our suffering": wow, aren't they powerful words? The true and only way we could possibly have the grace to do that is by having Jesus' love rule in our hearts, minds and lives. It is that love for Jesus that teaches us to love and embrace the pain of our suffering, as He did for us. We must allow His love to literally move into our hearts and take over. We must allow Him to guide us. God alone sent His only Son to suffer and die to save us from our own demise. It was that suffering that conquered the evils of this world. So with that said, it is our suffering that will help us conquer our unbelief and fear and pain in this world, and in this life.
This is a bit tangent away from all this, but the words really stand out in my life and mind hearing it. I am a huge Star Trek fan, of only the original cast of cause, and the movies they made. Anyhow, in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier, Kirk speaking to Bones said, "Bones, you're a doctor. You know that pain and guilt can't be taken away with the wave of a magic wand. They're things we carry with us, the things that make us who we are. If we lose them, we lose ourselves. I don't want my pain taken away. I need my pain." Rather insightful, even for a Star Trek movie hey. Pain and guilt can only be taken away by the love Jesus has given us, and the pain and suffering we experience throughout life does make us who we are. If you really read a lot of my writings, you'll see that I stay one hundred percent focused on Jesus. And in doing that, I can turn all my experiences and interactions into something that leads us back to Jesus. I feel blessed to be able to do that. But there is a method to how I so easily do that.
I had a rather interesting chat last week with a very dear and precious sister in the Lord. I explained to her how I live my life so easily and simply focused on Jesus. So many teach us and share with us how important it is to spend 15 minutes or 30 minutes or an hour a day with God, or our Lord. I can't help but to agree with those teachings. But I got to tell you, in my life for me, that wasn't enough time each day, I wanted Jesus even more. To me Jesus runs through my veins, I was in love. So early on, many many years ago, as far back as 1983; I decided on a new way to give my time to my Lord. And this way of worship and love and devotion will allow Jesus to rule my heart first and foremost every single day. Instead of minutes or hours, I simply give Jesus the entire 24 hours every day. And then I fit into my day all the other things I must do. That way I don't have to try to fit Jesus in, but rather all that I do is about Him. That's one secret as to how I stay so easily focused every day. You to can do the same. Trust and love works miracles in our lives, pray to Jesus unceasingly, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
The Last Shall Be First
Beads of Joy 08-18-10
The Last Shall Be First
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another fantastic parable to reflect upon today. This seems to be a week of parables, how fortunate we are to have such a loving and caring Savior. Today we are reading and reflecting upon Matthew 20:1-16 (The Parable of the Workers in The Vineyard). Jesus has taught us to never despise anyone who is wealthy, only that we pray for them to repent, that way instead of being last, they stand a chance at being first. There is so much wisdom in God's words for us to gain from. This parable can be a reflection of time in our lives. In other words the "morning", "the third hour", "the sixth hour", and "the eleventh hour", represent the longevity of our lives. The morning being the start and the eleventh being just before our death. And in this case the eleventh hour was just before the work day ended. The whole message seems to be telling us, that no matter when we come to Jesus, we are equal with all those who came before us. That time line can also be interpreted as "all of time". This is the wonderful, fun, exciting, joyful part that I enjoy so much in a parable.
Why is it so true that like in this parable, people get jealous of others who work less and yet receive the same reward? The generosity our Lord has for us is filled with so much love. Jesus simply wants to give all of us the same exact reward of being with Him in Heaven; no matter if we spent our entire life worshiping and honoring and loving Him, or if we asked for forgiveness on our death bed. Who are we to say what He can and can't do? God knows our hearts, our intentions, our reasons for the things we do. Deceiving Him and living the best of both worlds shouldn't be our objective, figuring "Oh if I can receive the same reward, I will wait for the eleventh hour to repent." That is truly arrogant presumption on our part to try to live that way. God knows why and what we are doing, we can not deceive God, He knows everything. We will have to answer to Him about that, should that be how we live our lives? I think not.
Do we work diligently when we are at work? Or are we worried more about the other worker next to us and how they are treated? Do we have to compare everything we do with someone else? Or can we live a life fully devoted to Him and only ask for Him to save us, and mind our own business when it comes to the love and sincerity of a merciful God. To me our job if you want it consider it a job, should be to draw others to our Lord. Help them see our Lord's love, kindness and mercy. Once they see and feel and know our Lord personally, they to will fall deeply in love with Him like we have. Who cares if they find Jesus at the third, the sixth, or the eleventh hour; we need to praise and thank God they found Him. Period.
We are all called by God, to serve Him, to love Him and to honor Him, and to love and serve others. Our actions and concerns for everyone should always be filled with Joy. In the end all that will matter is that we are with Him in eternity. We must do all we can to help everyone be there to, no matter what hour of the day or our life they come to Him. We need to put all judgment aside and stop picking and chosing who we want to go to Heaven. LOL.. Opps did I hit a nerve? We have all been there with that, I admit it first, I know I have. That judgement is for God alone. We are here for the sole purpose of building His kingdom. Let us do just that. If we love Him first and foremost in our lives, the only thing we should be concerned about is helping guide others to His love. Take up this challenge with me: Pray today for the one person in your life, or in the life of someone you know or love who is a thorn in your side; and ask God to fill their heart with His Love and Joy. Pray that God's will in their life comes to life for them. Pray that their eyes are open. Pray that they to pray, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
The Last Shall Be First
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another fantastic parable to reflect upon today. This seems to be a week of parables, how fortunate we are to have such a loving and caring Savior. Today we are reading and reflecting upon Matthew 20:1-16 (The Parable of the Workers in The Vineyard). Jesus has taught us to never despise anyone who is wealthy, only that we pray for them to repent, that way instead of being last, they stand a chance at being first. There is so much wisdom in God's words for us to gain from. This parable can be a reflection of time in our lives. In other words the "morning", "the third hour", "the sixth hour", and "the eleventh hour", represent the longevity of our lives. The morning being the start and the eleventh being just before our death. And in this case the eleventh hour was just before the work day ended. The whole message seems to be telling us, that no matter when we come to Jesus, we are equal with all those who came before us. That time line can also be interpreted as "all of time". This is the wonderful, fun, exciting, joyful part that I enjoy so much in a parable.
Why is it so true that like in this parable, people get jealous of others who work less and yet receive the same reward? The generosity our Lord has for us is filled with so much love. Jesus simply wants to give all of us the same exact reward of being with Him in Heaven; no matter if we spent our entire life worshiping and honoring and loving Him, or if we asked for forgiveness on our death bed. Who are we to say what He can and can't do? God knows our hearts, our intentions, our reasons for the things we do. Deceiving Him and living the best of both worlds shouldn't be our objective, figuring "Oh if I can receive the same reward, I will wait for the eleventh hour to repent." That is truly arrogant presumption on our part to try to live that way. God knows why and what we are doing, we can not deceive God, He knows everything. We will have to answer to Him about that, should that be how we live our lives? I think not.
Do we work diligently when we are at work? Or are we worried more about the other worker next to us and how they are treated? Do we have to compare everything we do with someone else? Or can we live a life fully devoted to Him and only ask for Him to save us, and mind our own business when it comes to the love and sincerity of a merciful God. To me our job if you want it consider it a job, should be to draw others to our Lord. Help them see our Lord's love, kindness and mercy. Once they see and feel and know our Lord personally, they to will fall deeply in love with Him like we have. Who cares if they find Jesus at the third, the sixth, or the eleventh hour; we need to praise and thank God they found Him. Period.
We are all called by God, to serve Him, to love Him and to honor Him, and to love and serve others. Our actions and concerns for everyone should always be filled with Joy. In the end all that will matter is that we are with Him in eternity. We must do all we can to help everyone be there to, no matter what hour of the day or our life they come to Him. We need to put all judgment aside and stop picking and chosing who we want to go to Heaven. LOL.. Opps did I hit a nerve? We have all been there with that, I admit it first, I know I have. That judgement is for God alone. We are here for the sole purpose of building His kingdom. Let us do just that. If we love Him first and foremost in our lives, the only thing we should be concerned about is helping guide others to His love. Take up this challenge with me: Pray today for the one person in your life, or in the life of someone you know or love who is a thorn in your side; and ask God to fill their heart with His Love and Joy. Pray that God's will in their life comes to life for them. Pray that their eyes are open. Pray that they to pray, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
All Things Are Possible
Beads of Joy 08-17-10
All Things Are Possible
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Today we continue from yesterdays gospel reading. Jesus takes the time to react and teach about the rich young mans choices. Today we reflect upon, Matthew 19:23-30 (The Parable of the Rich Young Man Explained). As I have said before in yesterdays blog, "Jesus was saying; you will find that it is the influence the "wealth" had on the wealthy." that was His concern. It's a very understandable truth, that the grip wealth has on the minds and hearts of so many. It takes them away from trusting in and being completely satisfied with Jesus alone. Where are your treasures? Are they here on this planet, in this life, or are they in Heaven? If they are in Heaven, then the things that are here aren't treasures, but blessings that can be shared with those who are not as blessed. Jesus is really sharing how important it is for us to really share and care for one another. So we can empty ourselves of the things that keep us from Him. There are many very wealthy, giving, seriously caring people in our world. It's when you grab hold of anything and by doing so, you let go of Jesus.
This is my own thoughts, I have also mentioned this thought before in other blogs. But I see it this way, "It seems as though the closer we are to poverty, pain and suffering, the closer we are to Jesus, and the reality of what matters in life. And that experience in life always seems to bring us to our knees. And on the opposite side of that; it seems as though the closer you are to the things of this world: wealth, power, influence, pride, and possessions, the further you are away from Jesus. And that experience in life always seems to bring people to their feet, overseeing any real need to trust in Jesus." Throughout our lives we will experience all kinds of good and bad and even ugly experiences and events. How we handle them and who we trust in, will determine where our hearts truly are. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Luke 12:34.
There is just so many scripture references in regards to the evil and destruction that money can cause in someones life. We must not take it lightly and think, oh whatever. When our Lord emphasis something, He does it for a reason. Just take a quick look at these few scriptures to reflect upon, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:9-10, and, "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked." Revelations 3:16-17. That one was powerful, I recommend reading more about that. I know Revelations isn't the easiest book to understand, but some sections of it makes so much sense about our future.
So what do we do? It's simple, one word solves all the confusion about what is it we are to do: Jesus. It's all about Him, and how we can focus our lives on Him. He is truly the ultimate conclusion and solution to all things. Our hearts must want to be like He was and is, generous, loving, giving, and caring. I realize there is so much more, but we can't list everything here. We need to fully understand that all forms of earthly material and possessions that are on and of this earth, shall remain on this earth; so that when it comes time for us to be called to the Father, these items will be teared from us as we leave. We must be free from the bondage they cause. So many people lose sleep, lose weight and then inevitable lose Jesus, worrying about these things. Jesus must absolutely without any doubt or question, come first and foremost in our lives. He must be everything to us, nothing else can compare, even if all the wealth in the entire world was combined, it still don't have any value compared to Jesus. Dear Lord how many people can not grasp that simple truth. In fact to go one step further; one mere drop of our Lords blood alone surpasses all the wealth in the world. It's so blessed for us to be able to understand all that. If you don't and you really want to, just pray over and over again, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
All Things Are Possible
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Today we continue from yesterdays gospel reading. Jesus takes the time to react and teach about the rich young mans choices. Today we reflect upon, Matthew 19:23-30 (The Parable of the Rich Young Man Explained). As I have said before in yesterdays blog, "Jesus was saying; you will find that it is the influence the "wealth" had on the wealthy." that was His concern. It's a very understandable truth, that the grip wealth has on the minds and hearts of so many. It takes them away from trusting in and being completely satisfied with Jesus alone. Where are your treasures? Are they here on this planet, in this life, or are they in Heaven? If they are in Heaven, then the things that are here aren't treasures, but blessings that can be shared with those who are not as blessed. Jesus is really sharing how important it is for us to really share and care for one another. So we can empty ourselves of the things that keep us from Him. There are many very wealthy, giving, seriously caring people in our world. It's when you grab hold of anything and by doing so, you let go of Jesus.
This is my own thoughts, I have also mentioned this thought before in other blogs. But I see it this way, "It seems as though the closer we are to poverty, pain and suffering, the closer we are to Jesus, and the reality of what matters in life. And that experience in life always seems to bring us to our knees. And on the opposite side of that; it seems as though the closer you are to the things of this world: wealth, power, influence, pride, and possessions, the further you are away from Jesus. And that experience in life always seems to bring people to their feet, overseeing any real need to trust in Jesus." Throughout our lives we will experience all kinds of good and bad and even ugly experiences and events. How we handle them and who we trust in, will determine where our hearts truly are. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Luke 12:34.
There is just so many scripture references in regards to the evil and destruction that money can cause in someones life. We must not take it lightly and think, oh whatever. When our Lord emphasis something, He does it for a reason. Just take a quick look at these few scriptures to reflect upon, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:9-10, and, "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked." Revelations 3:16-17. That one was powerful, I recommend reading more about that. I know Revelations isn't the easiest book to understand, but some sections of it makes so much sense about our future.
So what do we do? It's simple, one word solves all the confusion about what is it we are to do: Jesus. It's all about Him, and how we can focus our lives on Him. He is truly the ultimate conclusion and solution to all things. Our hearts must want to be like He was and is, generous, loving, giving, and caring. I realize there is so much more, but we can't list everything here. We need to fully understand that all forms of earthly material and possessions that are on and of this earth, shall remain on this earth; so that when it comes time for us to be called to the Father, these items will be teared from us as we leave. We must be free from the bondage they cause. So many people lose sleep, lose weight and then inevitable lose Jesus, worrying about these things. Jesus must absolutely without any doubt or question, come first and foremost in our lives. He must be everything to us, nothing else can compare, even if all the wealth in the entire world was combined, it still don't have any value compared to Jesus. Dear Lord how many people can not grasp that simple truth. In fact to go one step further; one mere drop of our Lords blood alone surpasses all the wealth in the world. It's so blessed for us to be able to understand all that. If you don't and you really want to, just pray over and over again, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Monday, August 16, 2010
Sell Everything And Follow Me
Beads of Joy 08-16-10
Sell Everything And Follow Me
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another sparkle of Joy to share with you today. I simply love the Parables Jesus taught us. Today's parable is a common one, many people have heard this one. Today we are reflecting upon Matthew 19:16-22 (The Rich Young Man). You know many seem to think sometimes, that Jesus condemned the rich and He always seemed to say they weren't going to Heaven. But if you do take the time and seriously read and understand what it is Jesus was saying; you will find that it is the influence the "wealth" had on the wealthy. There is nothing wrong with having wealth, in fact it is a blessing; the problem is what happens to those with such a blessing. Charity isn't putting a dollar in the collection plate, even the poor are more giving than that. It's really a mind set when you think about it. I have been there to some degree in the past, and spending never seemed to end; because the income was consistent, reliable and high. The wealth factor of always seeing money leave one hand while the other is receiving more. What an incredible sense of power and invincibility.
Do you see where this is all going? Wealth has this tendency to create many attitudes because of the way it dominates your life. For starters you feel a sense of security; all of your bills are paid, mortgage paid, gas in your cars, food on your table. Now I must tell you, that is wonderful having all those good feelings about those necessities met; the problem is the mindset of being secure in your trusting in Jesus is gone. Your wealth has taken the place of Jesus in your heart. Then wealth tends to feed and fuel pride, which fuels our indulgences and a sense of power. It's not easy to explain, but some of us have been there. Well I guess actually we are all there every once in a while. Think of those moments say when you take the money out of your holiday account for Christmas, or you have been blessed with a gift of say two thousand dollars cash. There is something magically dangerous about that excited feeling when we initially see a large roll of cash. It gives us a certain feeling that we can do anything now. I don't know if this is making sense to everyone. If you have never been on the opposite sides of both spectrum's you may not be able to grasp this.
There is a reason why scripture says, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:10. In my mind and spirit I believe in the heart of many of our faith filled people, there should be a sense of caution with money and wealth and success to some degree; especially when we are weak in the temptations we face each day. Because after all, what is it that sometimes is the key factor that holds so many back; from say doing drugs, paying for prostitutes, drinking everyday endlessly? The lack of money is the best deterrent from many of these indulgences. There is a larger percentage of wealthy people who have drug problems, why? It's mostly because it's a very expensive daily addiction. We always hear about celebrities in rehab, and if you see many of their interviews; so many through the years have said, there was so much money, it was so easy. Money gives you the power, the strength, the attitude that make you think you are invincible.
The one thing this young man was missing was the single most important, most powerful, most essential part of what he needed in his life. Jesus!! This young man was blinded in what it was Jesus was really asking of him. We all have heard the statement, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." That is actually scripture, Acts 20:35. Throughout scripture Jesus talks about surrendering, sacrifice, not looking back, others first. The glory in this life is all about being like and seeking out Jesus. By doing that you have not allowed the shackles of this world to grab us. It is easier for us to not allow the things this world to capture our hearts. Just look around, success, money, wealth; it is promoted far more than sacrifice, giving and humility. Being a Catholic, a follower of Jesus doesn't mean we must be poor. It's really all about stewardship. What is it that we do with what we have? and what is we don't do with what we have? All we can do is pray for those entangled in and over powered by their love and desire for a sense of security in their wealth. Let us pray to Jesus asking Him for guidance and direction, let Him know, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sell Everything And Follow Me
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another sparkle of Joy to share with you today. I simply love the Parables Jesus taught us. Today's parable is a common one, many people have heard this one. Today we are reflecting upon Matthew 19:16-22 (The Rich Young Man). You know many seem to think sometimes, that Jesus condemned the rich and He always seemed to say they weren't going to Heaven. But if you do take the time and seriously read and understand what it is Jesus was saying; you will find that it is the influence the "wealth" had on the wealthy. There is nothing wrong with having wealth, in fact it is a blessing; the problem is what happens to those with such a blessing. Charity isn't putting a dollar in the collection plate, even the poor are more giving than that. It's really a mind set when you think about it. I have been there to some degree in the past, and spending never seemed to end; because the income was consistent, reliable and high. The wealth factor of always seeing money leave one hand while the other is receiving more. What an incredible sense of power and invincibility.
Do you see where this is all going? Wealth has this tendency to create many attitudes because of the way it dominates your life. For starters you feel a sense of security; all of your bills are paid, mortgage paid, gas in your cars, food on your table. Now I must tell you, that is wonderful having all those good feelings about those necessities met; the problem is the mindset of being secure in your trusting in Jesus is gone. Your wealth has taken the place of Jesus in your heart. Then wealth tends to feed and fuel pride, which fuels our indulgences and a sense of power. It's not easy to explain, but some of us have been there. Well I guess actually we are all there every once in a while. Think of those moments say when you take the money out of your holiday account for Christmas, or you have been blessed with a gift of say two thousand dollars cash. There is something magically dangerous about that excited feeling when we initially see a large roll of cash. It gives us a certain feeling that we can do anything now. I don't know if this is making sense to everyone. If you have never been on the opposite sides of both spectrum's you may not be able to grasp this.
There is a reason why scripture says, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:10. In my mind and spirit I believe in the heart of many of our faith filled people, there should be a sense of caution with money and wealth and success to some degree; especially when we are weak in the temptations we face each day. Because after all, what is it that sometimes is the key factor that holds so many back; from say doing drugs, paying for prostitutes, drinking everyday endlessly? The lack of money is the best deterrent from many of these indulgences. There is a larger percentage of wealthy people who have drug problems, why? It's mostly because it's a very expensive daily addiction. We always hear about celebrities in rehab, and if you see many of their interviews; so many through the years have said, there was so much money, it was so easy. Money gives you the power, the strength, the attitude that make you think you are invincible.
The one thing this young man was missing was the single most important, most powerful, most essential part of what he needed in his life. Jesus!! This young man was blinded in what it was Jesus was really asking of him. We all have heard the statement, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." That is actually scripture, Acts 20:35. Throughout scripture Jesus talks about surrendering, sacrifice, not looking back, others first. The glory in this life is all about being like and seeking out Jesus. By doing that you have not allowed the shackles of this world to grab us. It is easier for us to not allow the things this world to capture our hearts. Just look around, success, money, wealth; it is promoted far more than sacrifice, giving and humility. Being a Catholic, a follower of Jesus doesn't mean we must be poor. It's really all about stewardship. What is it that we do with what we have? and what is we don't do with what we have? All we can do is pray for those entangled in and over powered by their love and desire for a sense of security in their wealth. Let us pray to Jesus asking Him for guidance and direction, let Him know, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Mary - Woman of Our Hope
Beads of Joy 08-15-10
Mary - Woman of Our Hope
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Any day we get to celebrate Jesus and our Lady is involved, is a most splendid day. Today is not only Our Lord's day, but we also get to celebrate, "The Solemnity of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary". We are going to reflect on our Blessed Mother today, but we'll see what direction our Lord leads today's blog. See today's gospel is Luke 1:39-56 (Visitation / Canticle of Mary). In past blogs I have written about both of these, so maybe today we can take a different direction and consider the real power that the Holy Spirit had in our Blessed Mother's life. She not only said yes, and trusted so unquestionably; but that faith built the foundational block that brought our Lord to us through her womb. So many people have little respect for our Blessed Mother, I just can't comprehend their lack of it. Mary basically gave up her life completely, and did what God had asked her and never seeked any of her own desires, hobbies or interests. Obviously, only to some degree I guess I can say that. But let's face it, she couldn't have a public life, she couldn't boldly do things; lest she risk those out to kill her Son find Him. So her life was hidden for the most part, with the main objective to raise and love her Son. To help Him grow strong for what was ahead.
We'll never know the full heart and mind of Mary, but we do see and understand the sacrificial life she had. Her faith is such an example for anyone who believes in Jesus. For it was through Mary that Jesus came into this world and into our lives. Jesus didn't magically appear one day, and then Mary and Joseph stopped by the local hospital and adopted Him. No, God through the power of the Holy Spirit touched Mary's heart to say Yes when the Angel Gabriel approached her at the Annunciation. We all know that if God asks you and you say no, He will find the heart that will say Yes to His will. But regardless to the fact that she could have said no, she didn't, instead she said yes. A choice that would change her life and ours for all eternity. Mary's mission ultimately became the first mission to believe solidly in God's will for Jesus in this world. The Holy Spirit is simply amazing, I know first hand how powerful and genuine and impressionable the Holy Spirit is in ones life. We just have to be open and be ready for the Holy Spirit to work miracles in our lives. It's not always easy to understand it all, but honestly I don't think we have to. That's where our faith and trust must come into all aspects of our lives.
Everywhere Mary went the Holy Spirit touched others. The Visitation in today's gospel tells us, "And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit" verse 41. This is a little bizarre but I guess that's what makes my blogs interesting at times. Remember "Mary Had a Little Lamb", bare with me, my mind has so many weird things stored in it. LOL. I want you to think about this part of that for a moment. "Everywhere that Mary went, the lamb was sure to go." Oh Lord does that not resonate to the full meaning and purpose Mary has been in our lives. To me that means if you are "into Mary" Jesus will surely be there; point being that you go to her to get to Him. Absolutely exciting joyful incredible news pondering that simple thought. Our faith can be as complicated as we so desire it to be; or we can keep it simple and to the point and spend all of our time loving Him. I prefer the simple life, of loving and worshiping my Lord while I adore and love His mother.
Mary is our role model, our Lord's Blessed Mother, and our mother. Let us embrace her and with the same faith in the same Holy Spirit as she had. Would we do what she did? Do we have the kind of courage and faith that she had? I really doubt it, yes we can can say yes now because of everything we know; but what about back then, Mary risked her life by saying yes. She didn't just say yes, because she had to, she didn't say yes, because she was told to; she said yes, because of her faith and trust in God's will for her in her life. She knew better than we could ever know now, the risk of an unmarried woman being pregnant in her time. She could have been stoned to death. Instead of worrying about her own selfishness in this life, she risked everything to fulfill God's will to bring to us our Savior. We really should be forever indebted to her for living such a life of sacrifice as she did. Just think of it this way, do we not love the priests and churches and the people in our communities who bring Jesus to us each week at Mass? Of cause we do. Now on that same thought, it was Mary who brought Him to us first, let us love her also. Trust in our Lord to guide your heart to loving her, simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You".
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Mary - Woman of Our Hope
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Any day we get to celebrate Jesus and our Lady is involved, is a most splendid day. Today is not only Our Lord's day, but we also get to celebrate, "The Solemnity of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary". We are going to reflect on our Blessed Mother today, but we'll see what direction our Lord leads today's blog. See today's gospel is Luke 1:39-56 (Visitation / Canticle of Mary). In past blogs I have written about both of these, so maybe today we can take a different direction and consider the real power that the Holy Spirit had in our Blessed Mother's life. She not only said yes, and trusted so unquestionably; but that faith built the foundational block that brought our Lord to us through her womb. So many people have little respect for our Blessed Mother, I just can't comprehend their lack of it. Mary basically gave up her life completely, and did what God had asked her and never seeked any of her own desires, hobbies or interests. Obviously, only to some degree I guess I can say that. But let's face it, she couldn't have a public life, she couldn't boldly do things; lest she risk those out to kill her Son find Him. So her life was hidden for the most part, with the main objective to raise and love her Son. To help Him grow strong for what was ahead.
We'll never know the full heart and mind of Mary, but we do see and understand the sacrificial life she had. Her faith is such an example for anyone who believes in Jesus. For it was through Mary that Jesus came into this world and into our lives. Jesus didn't magically appear one day, and then Mary and Joseph stopped by the local hospital and adopted Him. No, God through the power of the Holy Spirit touched Mary's heart to say Yes when the Angel Gabriel approached her at the Annunciation. We all know that if God asks you and you say no, He will find the heart that will say Yes to His will. But regardless to the fact that she could have said no, she didn't, instead she said yes. A choice that would change her life and ours for all eternity. Mary's mission ultimately became the first mission to believe solidly in God's will for Jesus in this world. The Holy Spirit is simply amazing, I know first hand how powerful and genuine and impressionable the Holy Spirit is in ones life. We just have to be open and be ready for the Holy Spirit to work miracles in our lives. It's not always easy to understand it all, but honestly I don't think we have to. That's where our faith and trust must come into all aspects of our lives.
Everywhere Mary went the Holy Spirit touched others. The Visitation in today's gospel tells us, "And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit" verse 41. This is a little bizarre but I guess that's what makes my blogs interesting at times. Remember "Mary Had a Little Lamb", bare with me, my mind has so many weird things stored in it. LOL. I want you to think about this part of that for a moment. "Everywhere that Mary went, the lamb was sure to go." Oh Lord does that not resonate to the full meaning and purpose Mary has been in our lives. To me that means if you are "into Mary" Jesus will surely be there; point being that you go to her to get to Him. Absolutely exciting joyful incredible news pondering that simple thought. Our faith can be as complicated as we so desire it to be; or we can keep it simple and to the point and spend all of our time loving Him. I prefer the simple life, of loving and worshiping my Lord while I adore and love His mother.
Mary is our role model, our Lord's Blessed Mother, and our mother. Let us embrace her and with the same faith in the same Holy Spirit as she had. Would we do what she did? Do we have the kind of courage and faith that she had? I really doubt it, yes we can can say yes now because of everything we know; but what about back then, Mary risked her life by saying yes. She didn't just say yes, because she had to, she didn't say yes, because she was told to; she said yes, because of her faith and trust in God's will for her in her life. She knew better than we could ever know now, the risk of an unmarried woman being pregnant in her time. She could have been stoned to death. Instead of worrying about her own selfishness in this life, she risked everything to fulfill God's will to bring to us our Savior. We really should be forever indebted to her for living such a life of sacrifice as she did. Just think of it this way, do we not love the priests and churches and the people in our communities who bring Jesus to us each week at Mass? Of cause we do. Now on that same thought, it was Mary who brought Him to us first, let us love her also. Trust in our Lord to guide your heart to loving her, simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You".
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The Foolish Pride of Many
Beads of Joy 08-12-10
The Foolish Pride of Many
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Foolish pride is one sin, so many of us fall into at some point or time in our lives. But thank God, so many of us woke up and stopped patting our own selves on our own backs. Jesus must come most especially before ourselves, immediately followed by others, that means everyone else. We must always be last in everything. Foolish pride will capture your heart and your mind and you will be consumed by you; are you are hottie, are you wealthy, do you have some power in the business world, or maybe you're popular. Just remember this, you know you better than most anyone else does. None of us are so perfect that we think so highly about ourselves, that all we think about is how perfect we are. We must remember that without Jesus, we are nothing. In God's eye we are fools to even consider ourselves better than anyone.
We must always realize that we must always dependent on God, even for the very air that we breath. Remember only God knows the number of hair on our head. I know if your like me, many of your hairs have been evicted. LOL, even with that said, God knows the ever changing number. We must know that God hates pride. I need not have to rattle on about all this, let's allow scripture to show us what is on the heart of our Lord when it comes to pride: "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." Proverbs 11:2 "I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless." Isaiah 13:11
There are many people so interested in continually making themselves fall even more in love with themselves. Sad, but an unfortunate truth. But I often wonder to myself: Why are so many afraid to fully serve and honor our Lord in their everyday life? Why? THINK OF THIS: Is your wisdom, wit and knowledge so great that you even think you are, or maybe even be smarter than God. Yes you know you need Him, but secretly you don't. After all, no one is smarter than you are with your investments. Isn't that why you won't even share any of it with God. Do you have a skill, you won't share with anyone, unless you get paid? Do you have a massive amount of money that your knowledge helped you attain? You know it was God who helped you attain that; have you thanked Him by helping the poor, did you help feed the starving? Or are you selfishly congratulating yourself for a job well done. I don't want any of your money, help the poor, help feed those in need. God said, "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:40.
It doesn't matter what I say or think, neither does it matter what anyone else thinks or says. What matters here is what God thinks and says. So we all must keep that in mind. Humble ourselves before Him, with our heads bowed down before Him begging for His forgiveness and love. Do you remember "The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector"? In the end what did God say? "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 18:14. We must keep this very important scripture in mind when it comes to the pride in ourselves. Pray and ask for God to guide your heart and mind closer to Him. Let him know plainly, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
The Foolish Pride of Many
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Foolish pride is one sin, so many of us fall into at some point or time in our lives. But thank God, so many of us woke up and stopped patting our own selves on our own backs. Jesus must come most especially before ourselves, immediately followed by others, that means everyone else. We must always be last in everything. Foolish pride will capture your heart and your mind and you will be consumed by you; are you are hottie, are you wealthy, do you have some power in the business world, or maybe you're popular. Just remember this, you know you better than most anyone else does. None of us are so perfect that we think so highly about ourselves, that all we think about is how perfect we are. We must remember that without Jesus, we are nothing. In God's eye we are fools to even consider ourselves better than anyone.
We must always realize that we must always dependent on God, even for the very air that we breath. Remember only God knows the number of hair on our head. I know if your like me, many of your hairs have been evicted. LOL, even with that said, God knows the ever changing number. We must know that God hates pride. I need not have to rattle on about all this, let's allow scripture to show us what is on the heart of our Lord when it comes to pride: "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." Proverbs 11:2 "I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless." Isaiah 13:11
There are many people so interested in continually making themselves fall even more in love with themselves. Sad, but an unfortunate truth. But I often wonder to myself: Why are so many afraid to fully serve and honor our Lord in their everyday life? Why? THINK OF THIS: Is your wisdom, wit and knowledge so great that you even think you are, or maybe even be smarter than God. Yes you know you need Him, but secretly you don't. After all, no one is smarter than you are with your investments. Isn't that why you won't even share any of it with God. Do you have a skill, you won't share with anyone, unless you get paid? Do you have a massive amount of money that your knowledge helped you attain? You know it was God who helped you attain that; have you thanked Him by helping the poor, did you help feed the starving? Or are you selfishly congratulating yourself for a job well done. I don't want any of your money, help the poor, help feed those in need. God said, "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:40.
It doesn't matter what I say or think, neither does it matter what anyone else thinks or says. What matters here is what God thinks and says. So we all must keep that in mind. Humble ourselves before Him, with our heads bowed down before Him begging for His forgiveness and love. Do you remember "The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector"? In the end what did God say? "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 18:14. We must keep this very important scripture in mind when it comes to the pride in ourselves. Pray and ask for God to guide your heart and mind closer to Him. Let him know plainly, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Sin of Avoiding Communion
Beads of Joy 08-11-10
Sin of Avoiding Communion
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Never doubt the power and blessing in receiving Holy Communion. We must not fall into the temptation of avoiding Jesus in Communion. Taking our desire and attention away from Him is too common in today's society. God only desires that we do our best in receiving Him; obviously health issues and other events do present themselves and God knows our heart. But there are those who unfortunately, deliberately stay away and avoid our Lord. We must be wise not to fall into fearing man or the devil. They must not be of any influence in keeping us away from receiving Jesus in Communion. Satan celebrates and rejoices at every moment he can tempt us and keep us away from Jesus. There is absolutely no reason to have any fear of satan or his followers. I know this may be simply written, but not always so easily achieved; but we must pay as little attention to satan's tricks and misdirection as possible. He is a deceiver, who will mislead us and he hates God, therefore he must never allow him to come between us and God.
There are many ways we can come to Jesus and be with Him, receiving Holy Communion is truly one very special way. In communion Jesus not only comes to us in the word for us to hear, or the spirit through others that helps us see Him. In communion Jesus comes to us in the form of bread for us to consume His flesh, helping us to fill our hunger and desire for Him. During this extremely very special union that takes place with Him, we become filled with so much Joy that the world can't understand. Nor will they ever understand unless they come before Him. We can only do all we can to help lead others to Him, if they will not listen or they refuse to listen; do not be so disturbed or upset that you to, drift from Him. Instead go to Mass, receive Him and offer all your prayers up for that special person you so desire to also receive Jesus as you have. My dear brothers and sisters, the Holy Mass is so precious, so special, so incredible; that we have the chance in our lives to spend such a beautiful time with our Lord. We can even do this every single if we so chose.
Frequent communion is a blessing. The graces we receive is so many, no one can ever come up with a true amount. Receiving daily communion will continue to draw you ever so much closer to our Lord. He will keep us alert to our sins, and He will help us stay fully focused on Him. Think about it, if you see someone (say Jesus), every single day, and you receive His body and you Praise His Holy Name, always. Who is the first, the very first, the number person that comes to your mind and heart first? JESUS, JESUS, JESUS of cause. That is the amazing part about keeping Jesus in our lives every single second of every single minute of every single day. Our lives will become magnificent, I really wish, I can really explain my Joy. Sometimes I feel like I'm not saying the right things, so that you to get as excited and all wound up about Jesus like I do.
Let us never avoid Jesus in Communion. Let us do all we can to be ready and prepared to receive Him as often as we possibly can. The opportunities and joys that will fill our souls will be endless and that Joy will never ever leave us. We must be eager in our desire for Him, we need to urn for His presence in our lives and in our hearts. Keep your thoughts of Him alive inside you, never place any other thought before Him. We can be saints in His sight if we prepare for Communion is such a way that He knows our hearts true desire for Him. It would only take one communion in that perfect union with Him that would make us saints. We are so privileged to have such a loving caring Lord, let us prepare ourselves properly before Him, before we receive Him. We need Him, do not allow anything to come between you and Him. Pray always and often, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sin of Avoiding Communion
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Never doubt the power and blessing in receiving Holy Communion. We must not fall into the temptation of avoiding Jesus in Communion. Taking our desire and attention away from Him is too common in today's society. God only desires that we do our best in receiving Him; obviously health issues and other events do present themselves and God knows our heart. But there are those who unfortunately, deliberately stay away and avoid our Lord. We must be wise not to fall into fearing man or the devil. They must not be of any influence in keeping us away from receiving Jesus in Communion. Satan celebrates and rejoices at every moment he can tempt us and keep us away from Jesus. There is absolutely no reason to have any fear of satan or his followers. I know this may be simply written, but not always so easily achieved; but we must pay as little attention to satan's tricks and misdirection as possible. He is a deceiver, who will mislead us and he hates God, therefore he must never allow him to come between us and God.
There are many ways we can come to Jesus and be with Him, receiving Holy Communion is truly one very special way. In communion Jesus not only comes to us in the word for us to hear, or the spirit through others that helps us see Him. In communion Jesus comes to us in the form of bread for us to consume His flesh, helping us to fill our hunger and desire for Him. During this extremely very special union that takes place with Him, we become filled with so much Joy that the world can't understand. Nor will they ever understand unless they come before Him. We can only do all we can to help lead others to Him, if they will not listen or they refuse to listen; do not be so disturbed or upset that you to, drift from Him. Instead go to Mass, receive Him and offer all your prayers up for that special person you so desire to also receive Jesus as you have. My dear brothers and sisters, the Holy Mass is so precious, so special, so incredible; that we have the chance in our lives to spend such a beautiful time with our Lord. We can even do this every single if we so chose.
Frequent communion is a blessing. The graces we receive is so many, no one can ever come up with a true amount. Receiving daily communion will continue to draw you ever so much closer to our Lord. He will keep us alert to our sins, and He will help us stay fully focused on Him. Think about it, if you see someone (say Jesus), every single day, and you receive His body and you Praise His Holy Name, always. Who is the first, the very first, the number person that comes to your mind and heart first? JESUS, JESUS, JESUS of cause. That is the amazing part about keeping Jesus in our lives every single second of every single minute of every single day. Our lives will become magnificent, I really wish, I can really explain my Joy. Sometimes I feel like I'm not saying the right things, so that you to get as excited and all wound up about Jesus like I do.
Let us never avoid Jesus in Communion. Let us do all we can to be ready and prepared to receive Him as often as we possibly can. The opportunities and joys that will fill our souls will be endless and that Joy will never ever leave us. We must be eager in our desire for Him, we need to urn for His presence in our lives and in our hearts. Keep your thoughts of Him alive inside you, never place any other thought before Him. We can be saints in His sight if we prepare for Communion is such a way that He knows our hearts true desire for Him. It would only take one communion in that perfect union with Him that would make us saints. We are so privileged to have such a loving caring Lord, let us prepare ourselves properly before Him, before we receive Him. We need Him, do not allow anything to come between you and Him. Pray always and often, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
No Fruit In Worldly Prosperity
Beads of Joy 08-10-10
No Fruit In Worldly Prosperity©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Interesting thought isn't it? What possible fruit can one get from the things of this world? Maybe this is a thinking question in some ways, because if you use the things (the treasures) you have for God's glory, just maybe you will have fruit. Worldly prosperity unfortunately for the most part is just that "worldly". Great wealth in stocks, or real estate, or business, or in a huge investment account usually for the most part; don't result in more care for the hungry being fed or more suffering families being helped. It seems to usually end up that most feel that this earthly worldly life is so much better, than making themselves submit to the Cross of Christ. It may appear the wealthy have it easy, enjoy all their toys and seem to be on easy street, we must not be deceived by the appearance of that. I agree, that yes, it would be easier and nicer, but in the truest desire of my heart; I would much rather be on the complete opposite side of all that. It seems as though the closer you are to poverty, the closer you are to the real true relationship with our Lord. And I, me personally do not and will not take money over God. There are two sets of eye glasses in this world, the haves and the have nots; the have nots can't stare at the stuff or build their pride or shine up their ego. And the have nots turn to God for peace, Joy, and love and understanding. I believe the haves do also, but they clearly do not see things the same way.
I wish to be clear about this, I am not like this president, I am not jealous of the wealthy, I only pray that they ask God for guidance in how they are to help others with what gifts they have received. Seriously think of this for a second, what if you won $10,000,000 (Ten Million Dollars) or you inherited it? What would you do with it? We can all be as pious as we say we want, our Lord knows our true hearts desire. Well through the past 24 years, Chrissy and I have talked about this a lot, usually whenever the big lotto's, or power ball jackpots are in the news or on tv. We'd honestly be helping everyone we know, family and friends, then we'd secretly work through those we know in parishes and shrines and have the priests help us direct the money secretly to the needy families; by either paying down their bills, fixing or replacing their vehicles, whatever their needs are. This is a huge desire in our heart if we should ever have that happen to us. We'd also put some aside for each of our kids to help them in the future. God knows our intentions, from time to time we play and pray, not out of selfishness, but for the desire to help the so many out there like us. You can hold our feet to the fire about this, if we should ever have this happen to us. We can relate to poverty and real challenges and hard times. For the most part wealthy people haven't a clue, honestly no clue. Yeah I have spoken to many here online and in person, incredibly I do know a couple of very wealthy people. They relate poverty to one week less vacation this year (instead of 6 weeks they have 5), or a lower grade BMW (the model that is $15,000 less). I have had some interesting conversations through the years. I also know many who give and give and give who aren't wealthy. In fact in all honesty I know more poor people that give more than wealthy ones. There's a thought, and a truth.
Most of the time the worldly prosperity and the people around it, keep them from Jesus. They are thinking about their vacations, their house, or their cars or they watch their investments faithfully every single day. What an absolute waste of time, energy and devotion. It is so clear who their god is in their lives. It's sad actually. See one day all of us will be equal, worldy prosperity will not play a role in it at all, "unless" it is used for the glory and devotion to our Lord. Consider this scripture to better emphisis Jesus' point of view on this:
Luke 12:13-20 (The Parable of The Foolish Rich Man)
"Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.'"Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?"
We need to focus on attaining as much of God's Joy as we possibly can, "I have a bazillion extra mega-tons of it, if anyone needs some." LOL. It is so easy to love Jesus first and foremost. Embrace whatever state of life you are in. I believe having less in your life is really all about having more JESUS in your life. I'd rather be sharing a room and have NOTHING, than lose ALL that I have in Jesus, for "stuff" and all the worries and crap that comes with it. No one, and nothing is allowed to ever take my JESUS away from me. You'd have to kill me, and if you did, I would be sling-shot into my Lord's arms.. LOL, so there. Either way I will always have my Jesus in my life. Let us not be like the foolish rich man or woman. Our life here on earth is short, far too short to waste on things that will inevitably only keep us away from and out of Heaven. Are you willing to risk everything and never have perfect happiness in Jesus in Heaven? My thought is, only a fool would even think to hesitate an answer to that. Please ask Jesus to guide your heart and mind and thoughts to serve Him through your blessings. Simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You".
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
No Fruit In Worldly Prosperity©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Interesting thought isn't it? What possible fruit can one get from the things of this world? Maybe this is a thinking question in some ways, because if you use the things (the treasures) you have for God's glory, just maybe you will have fruit. Worldly prosperity unfortunately for the most part is just that "worldly". Great wealth in stocks, or real estate, or business, or in a huge investment account usually for the most part; don't result in more care for the hungry being fed or more suffering families being helped. It seems to usually end up that most feel that this earthly worldly life is so much better, than making themselves submit to the Cross of Christ. It may appear the wealthy have it easy, enjoy all their toys and seem to be on easy street, we must not be deceived by the appearance of that. I agree, that yes, it would be easier and nicer, but in the truest desire of my heart; I would much rather be on the complete opposite side of all that. It seems as though the closer you are to poverty, the closer you are to the real true relationship with our Lord. And I, me personally do not and will not take money over God. There are two sets of eye glasses in this world, the haves and the have nots; the have nots can't stare at the stuff or build their pride or shine up their ego. And the have nots turn to God for peace, Joy, and love and understanding. I believe the haves do also, but they clearly do not see things the same way.
I wish to be clear about this, I am not like this president, I am not jealous of the wealthy, I only pray that they ask God for guidance in how they are to help others with what gifts they have received. Seriously think of this for a second, what if you won $10,000,000 (Ten Million Dollars) or you inherited it? What would you do with it? We can all be as pious as we say we want, our Lord knows our true hearts desire. Well through the past 24 years, Chrissy and I have talked about this a lot, usually whenever the big lotto's, or power ball jackpots are in the news or on tv. We'd honestly be helping everyone we know, family and friends, then we'd secretly work through those we know in parishes and shrines and have the priests help us direct the money secretly to the needy families; by either paying down their bills, fixing or replacing their vehicles, whatever their needs are. This is a huge desire in our heart if we should ever have that happen to us. We'd also put some aside for each of our kids to help them in the future. God knows our intentions, from time to time we play and pray, not out of selfishness, but for the desire to help the so many out there like us. You can hold our feet to the fire about this, if we should ever have this happen to us. We can relate to poverty and real challenges and hard times. For the most part wealthy people haven't a clue, honestly no clue. Yeah I have spoken to many here online and in person, incredibly I do know a couple of very wealthy people. They relate poverty to one week less vacation this year (instead of 6 weeks they have 5), or a lower grade BMW (the model that is $15,000 less). I have had some interesting conversations through the years. I also know many who give and give and give who aren't wealthy. In fact in all honesty I know more poor people that give more than wealthy ones. There's a thought, and a truth.
Most of the time the worldly prosperity and the people around it, keep them from Jesus. They are thinking about their vacations, their house, or their cars or they watch their investments faithfully every single day. What an absolute waste of time, energy and devotion. It is so clear who their god is in their lives. It's sad actually. See one day all of us will be equal, worldy prosperity will not play a role in it at all, "unless" it is used for the glory and devotion to our Lord. Consider this scripture to better emphisis Jesus' point of view on this:
Luke 12:13-20 (The Parable of The Foolish Rich Man)
"Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.'"Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?"
We need to focus on attaining as much of God's Joy as we possibly can, "I have a bazillion extra mega-tons of it, if anyone needs some." LOL. It is so easy to love Jesus first and foremost. Embrace whatever state of life you are in. I believe having less in your life is really all about having more JESUS in your life. I'd rather be sharing a room and have NOTHING, than lose ALL that I have in Jesus, for "stuff" and all the worries and crap that comes with it. No one, and nothing is allowed to ever take my JESUS away from me. You'd have to kill me, and if you did, I would be sling-shot into my Lord's arms.. LOL, so there. Either way I will always have my Jesus in my life. Let us not be like the foolish rich man or woman. Our life here on earth is short, far too short to waste on things that will inevitably only keep us away from and out of Heaven. Are you willing to risk everything and never have perfect happiness in Jesus in Heaven? My thought is, only a fool would even think to hesitate an answer to that. Please ask Jesus to guide your heart and mind and thoughts to serve Him through your blessings. Simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You".
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Monday, August 9, 2010
Vain Hope's Have No Value
Beads of Joy 08-09-10
Vain Hope's Have No Value
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This week I think many of us need to reflect on some of Life's Temptations. And that will be the general focus of the week. Today we will reflect on the Vain Hope's so many have in the things of this world. Now, most of you who read my blog regularly have really gotten to know me; I am not against success of wealth. I try my best in my life to look at it the way I believe God wants us to look at it. See if we have been blessed with wealth or success and we hoard it to our "ego account" and pat ourselves on the back saying, "Job well done, you are a magnificent genius". Well then I would think it would be fair to say, that God did not intend for the blessing we have been given, to be hoarded and have our pride built from that. God gives and gives and gives, so we can in turn give, see there is a method here. Some of us can't give money or even financial help of any sort to others, even when in our hearts we really want to. So in situations like that, we need to share and give our love, our faith, our excited spirit to others. That's what I do. We are not wealthy, not by any measure of the word. But I know we are multi-bazillions in our faith, love and devotion to our Lord. And honestly I wouldn't trade it for all the money in the entire world. The excitement and JOY that fills my heart and soul, explodes inside me every single minute of every single day. I am all wound up. You heard the song, "Your Love Is My Drug" by Kesha. Well to me "My Lord's Love is My Drug". Just put all your focus on him when you hear that song, and wow, it's a cool song.
I know most of you, really do know much about me. But let's look into the vain hope's so many have fallen victim to in this world. Yes "vain", people we can't take anything with us, nothing, nada, zip. Nothing gets packed into our caskets when they are lowered it into the ground, nothing. What are some of our vain hopes? Money, health, how about our ego (what we want others to think about us), how many of us look at having superiority over others (thinking, I am so smart, they are not) hmmm scary, but sad, I know. But we know there are so many vain things we think of, worry about and spend all of our days focused on. How about our talents and our possessions? Oh my, in the possessions part of this thought, so many people wrap their entire world in their stuff. How sad, what an absolute waste of a life to be so consumed by "stuff". You know stuff includes; house, car, clothes, jewelry, etc. All the things that take you away from Jesus, all the things that will eventually be dust back into the ground. Where should we be spending all our time? Where should our complete focus be? What in this world should be consuming us? And what do I do with all this junk that is taking up my life, my thoughts and keeping me from my Jesus?
There is so much to think about and so many will not have the strength to be bold enough to put Jesus first and only in their lives. I don't think I am unique or rare, in fact I bet there are many others who think like me, to the extent I believe and follow my Lord. Needless to say and I would guess that it's obvious, our complete focus needs to be on Jesus, we need to be so consumed by Him; that we don't have any time to share with the things in this world that hold no eternal significances. Yes we want a nice home for our family: Does it have to be 8,000+ square feet? well I don't think so, but then ego usually drives those choices. And yes, we want to drive a reliable vehicle that safely secures our family, gets us to Mass, and allows us to help others with it: Do we need to spend countless thousands of dollars for the sake of our ego? I say no, there are many humble, very reliable vehicles we can own, and use all that excess cash to help a friend, or an entire family. Do you know how many people are suffering out there? I know we all do. Why is it that people who focus so much on the vain things in life, only want more? Simple answer, I know you know this one. It's because nothing at all in this life can ever fill your heart with so much Joy as Jesus does, nothing. So you need to get more money, a bigger house, more or longer more expensive vacations. You will never be satisfied, never.
Praise Jesus for filling the hearts and minds and souls of so many of us. I can speak for myself and many of you really know me, either from the many hours on the phone, or text or simply chatting with online. Jesus is ALL we need, Jesus fills me with so much Joy, that no matter much I give away and share every single hour of every single day, I have so much more to share. Allow Jesus to take you, to consume you, be so drawn to His love and His mercy and His goodness that you are so satisfied, no matter where you are in this life. And if you have been blessed, please bless someone else, so many people out here are suffering. You know friends, family, neighbors, fellow parishioner's; who are suffering horribly, either financially, or even in the spiritual department. Share your faith, give away the Joy Jesus has given you, everyday. When you do that, Jesus will only keep on giving you more and more and more, because He knows you are going to give it away. Please allow Jesus to consume you, think about and focus on Him always. I love my life, no matter how difficult things get, I look to Him and scream and yell shouts of Joy, so excited and so happy that even in the midst of our suffering He brings a smile to my face by merely thinking about Him. I know you can to. Just pray this simple prayer over and over again, every single day, "Jesus, I trust in You".
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Vain Hope's Have No Value
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This week I think many of us need to reflect on some of Life's Temptations. And that will be the general focus of the week. Today we will reflect on the Vain Hope's so many have in the things of this world. Now, most of you who read my blog regularly have really gotten to know me; I am not against success of wealth. I try my best in my life to look at it the way I believe God wants us to look at it. See if we have been blessed with wealth or success and we hoard it to our "ego account" and pat ourselves on the back saying, "Job well done, you are a magnificent genius". Well then I would think it would be fair to say, that God did not intend for the blessing we have been given, to be hoarded and have our pride built from that. God gives and gives and gives, so we can in turn give, see there is a method here. Some of us can't give money or even financial help of any sort to others, even when in our hearts we really want to. So in situations like that, we need to share and give our love, our faith, our excited spirit to others. That's what I do. We are not wealthy, not by any measure of the word. But I know we are multi-bazillions in our faith, love and devotion to our Lord. And honestly I wouldn't trade it for all the money in the entire world. The excitement and JOY that fills my heart and soul, explodes inside me every single minute of every single day. I am all wound up. You heard the song, "Your Love Is My Drug" by Kesha. Well to me "My Lord's Love is My Drug". Just put all your focus on him when you hear that song, and wow, it's a cool song.
I know most of you, really do know much about me. But let's look into the vain hope's so many have fallen victim to in this world. Yes "vain", people we can't take anything with us, nothing, nada, zip. Nothing gets packed into our caskets when they are lowered it into the ground, nothing. What are some of our vain hopes? Money, health, how about our ego (what we want others to think about us), how many of us look at having superiority over others (thinking, I am so smart, they are not) hmmm scary, but sad, I know. But we know there are so many vain things we think of, worry about and spend all of our days focused on. How about our talents and our possessions? Oh my, in the possessions part of this thought, so many people wrap their entire world in their stuff. How sad, what an absolute waste of a life to be so consumed by "stuff". You know stuff includes; house, car, clothes, jewelry, etc. All the things that take you away from Jesus, all the things that will eventually be dust back into the ground. Where should we be spending all our time? Where should our complete focus be? What in this world should be consuming us? And what do I do with all this junk that is taking up my life, my thoughts and keeping me from my Jesus?
There is so much to think about and so many will not have the strength to be bold enough to put Jesus first and only in their lives. I don't think I am unique or rare, in fact I bet there are many others who think like me, to the extent I believe and follow my Lord. Needless to say and I would guess that it's obvious, our complete focus needs to be on Jesus, we need to be so consumed by Him; that we don't have any time to share with the things in this world that hold no eternal significances. Yes we want a nice home for our family: Does it have to be 8,000+ square feet? well I don't think so, but then ego usually drives those choices. And yes, we want to drive a reliable vehicle that safely secures our family, gets us to Mass, and allows us to help others with it: Do we need to spend countless thousands of dollars for the sake of our ego? I say no, there are many humble, very reliable vehicles we can own, and use all that excess cash to help a friend, or an entire family. Do you know how many people are suffering out there? I know we all do. Why is it that people who focus so much on the vain things in life, only want more? Simple answer, I know you know this one. It's because nothing at all in this life can ever fill your heart with so much Joy as Jesus does, nothing. So you need to get more money, a bigger house, more or longer more expensive vacations. You will never be satisfied, never.
Praise Jesus for filling the hearts and minds and souls of so many of us. I can speak for myself and many of you really know me, either from the many hours on the phone, or text or simply chatting with online. Jesus is ALL we need, Jesus fills me with so much Joy, that no matter much I give away and share every single hour of every single day, I have so much more to share. Allow Jesus to take you, to consume you, be so drawn to His love and His mercy and His goodness that you are so satisfied, no matter where you are in this life. And if you have been blessed, please bless someone else, so many people out here are suffering. You know friends, family, neighbors, fellow parishioner's; who are suffering horribly, either financially, or even in the spiritual department. Share your faith, give away the Joy Jesus has given you, everyday. When you do that, Jesus will only keep on giving you more and more and more, because He knows you are going to give it away. Please allow Jesus to consume you, think about and focus on Him always. I love my life, no matter how difficult things get, I look to Him and scream and yell shouts of Joy, so excited and so happy that even in the midst of our suffering He brings a smile to my face by merely thinking about Him. I know you can to. Just pray this simple prayer over and over again, every single day, "Jesus, I trust in You".
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Where Is Your Treasure?
Beads of Joy 08-08-10
Where Is Your Treasure?
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
It is the most wonderful day of the week, once again. Today we reflect upon a very insightful gospel. Today we are reading, Luke 12:32-48 (The Vigilant and Faithful Servants). So much to talk about here, but what I'd like to reflect upon is verse 34, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." What does that really mean to us? Where are our hearts? Do you seriously keep our hearts in check, or do we aimlessly preferably make choices based on selfish requirements? So much to talk about, yes; but even more to think about. This verse reminds me of a long time dear friend of mine; he's not on facebook nor are his kids. But I have know him and his wife Jennifer for many many years. Why is it so many of us put dollar signs and self worth on "people" in order for us to accept them into our circle? I really can not comprehend that, I don't think I ever will be able to.
Here's a situation I witnessed many many years ago. This gentleman is older than me, he has three kids (2 girls, 1 boy). He owns a business, and he spends money "hand over fist". Did you ever hear of that term? It basically means, he just keeps spending on whatever he so desires without any worry about running out. Anyway with all that said, you'll see why I relate this story to verse 34 today; and I will reflect on what we can learn from it. First off I use to be at his house a lot years back. So I witnessed many parent/child conversations and words of advice that were given to the children. Well this one particular time, his oldest daughter was talking about a boy she was interested in going with. His words went like this, "Who is he? What do his parents do for a living? What kind of lifestyle do they live?" I remember this as if it was clearly said right in front of me today. He looked at me for like an "approval". I didn't give him that sign, but later I knew it wasn't for approval. He then said to me, when we were in yard, "You don't approve of what I told my daughter?"
I simply said, "I wouldn't have ever told my daughter that, to me that was bad advice." At the time my daughter Sarah was only a toddler. He wasn't happy I said that, but we have been friends for many many years. So I intrigued him for my belief, verse his financial/status requests. So in respect to it all, he said, "What would you have said?" That's all I wanted, was a friendly door open to share critical information, that could make life for his daughter a happier life. I said look this what I would have said, "Sweetheart who is this boy? Did we ever meet him? How long have you known him? He must be special for you to like him? Maybe we could meet him before you guys go out, we'd love to meet him. How far away do they live?" He was like, "What the hell? Don't you even care about what kind of a family he comes from? You'd let any guy go with your daughter?" My answer was a simple one, one that I thought he would have common sense to have told his daughter. I said, "Yes I care about what kind of a family he is from; no my daughter isn't going to just go out with anybody? and I don't care what his parents do for a living. Are you telling me if your daughter falls in love with a carpenter or store manager, you don't care what she feels about someone?"
My reflection: What if God were to say to His Son, "Do not bring anyone to me who doesn't already believe, I am not interested in anyone with baggage or sin, I only want the good people." See how the treasure this friend of mine was seeking had to meet his criteria. Eliminating good people, people his daughter might seriously fall in love with. He based his choices on her decision to be one of financial choice; he had no concern about her, only himself. I thought his advice was selfish, and he was setting up his daughter to basically fall. Yes maybe just maybe she may find true love in a checkbook, but then maybe not. Maybe he would have been just as spoiled as she was and the mixed together create many future problems. Mostly because both would be focused on their wallet, not their hearts. How sad is the parent who says, "Date up" or "Make sure he is successful." Whatever happen to just falling in love, and to allow it to happen naturally? Do you value your treasures so much, that your choices are based on those treasures? If you treasure Jesus, your choices will be that of the Lord's, not yours.
Simply pray for direction, "Jesus, I trust in You"
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Where Is Your Treasure?
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
It is the most wonderful day of the week, once again. Today we reflect upon a very insightful gospel. Today we are reading, Luke 12:32-48 (The Vigilant and Faithful Servants). So much to talk about here, but what I'd like to reflect upon is verse 34, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." What does that really mean to us? Where are our hearts? Do you seriously keep our hearts in check, or do we aimlessly preferably make choices based on selfish requirements? So much to talk about, yes; but even more to think about. This verse reminds me of a long time dear friend of mine; he's not on facebook nor are his kids. But I have know him and his wife Jennifer for many many years. Why is it so many of us put dollar signs and self worth on "people" in order for us to accept them into our circle? I really can not comprehend that, I don't think I ever will be able to.
Here's a situation I witnessed many many years ago. This gentleman is older than me, he has three kids (2 girls, 1 boy). He owns a business, and he spends money "hand over fist". Did you ever hear of that term? It basically means, he just keeps spending on whatever he so desires without any worry about running out. Anyway with all that said, you'll see why I relate this story to verse 34 today; and I will reflect on what we can learn from it. First off I use to be at his house a lot years back. So I witnessed many parent/child conversations and words of advice that were given to the children. Well this one particular time, his oldest daughter was talking about a boy she was interested in going with. His words went like this, "Who is he? What do his parents do for a living? What kind of lifestyle do they live?" I remember this as if it was clearly said right in front of me today. He looked at me for like an "approval". I didn't give him that sign, but later I knew it wasn't for approval. He then said to me, when we were in yard, "You don't approve of what I told my daughter?"
I simply said, "I wouldn't have ever told my daughter that, to me that was bad advice." At the time my daughter Sarah was only a toddler. He wasn't happy I said that, but we have been friends for many many years. So I intrigued him for my belief, verse his financial/status requests. So in respect to it all, he said, "What would you have said?" That's all I wanted, was a friendly door open to share critical information, that could make life for his daughter a happier life. I said look this what I would have said, "Sweetheart who is this boy? Did we ever meet him? How long have you known him? He must be special for you to like him? Maybe we could meet him before you guys go out, we'd love to meet him. How far away do they live?" He was like, "What the hell? Don't you even care about what kind of a family he comes from? You'd let any guy go with your daughter?" My answer was a simple one, one that I thought he would have common sense to have told his daughter. I said, "Yes I care about what kind of a family he is from; no my daughter isn't going to just go out with anybody? and I don't care what his parents do for a living. Are you telling me if your daughter falls in love with a carpenter or store manager, you don't care what she feels about someone?"
My reflection: What if God were to say to His Son, "Do not bring anyone to me who doesn't already believe, I am not interested in anyone with baggage or sin, I only want the good people." See how the treasure this friend of mine was seeking had to meet his criteria. Eliminating good people, people his daughter might seriously fall in love with. He based his choices on her decision to be one of financial choice; he had no concern about her, only himself. I thought his advice was selfish, and he was setting up his daughter to basically fall. Yes maybe just maybe she may find true love in a checkbook, but then maybe not. Maybe he would have been just as spoiled as she was and the mixed together create many future problems. Mostly because both would be focused on their wallet, not their hearts. How sad is the parent who says, "Date up" or "Make sure he is successful." Whatever happen to just falling in love, and to allow it to happen naturally? Do you value your treasures so much, that your choices are based on those treasures? If you treasure Jesus, your choices will be that of the Lord's, not yours.
Simply pray for direction, "Jesus, I trust in You"
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Friday, August 6, 2010
Yes, Miracles Do Happen
Beads of Joy 08-06-10
Yes, Miracles Do Happen
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I just had to write about this today. This is far too exciting not to share it with everyone in a blog. As most everyone already knows, my wife Christine has a very severe life threatening case of lung cancer. Let me back the clock up, to day one, to truly one of this most devastating events in our family. May 6, 2010, Chrissy's doctor determined by way of x-ray that she had a massive growth in or around her left lung, (during a routine physical) and after that diagnosis came to her attention the very next day she began coughing up blood. She continued the blood coughing for about six weeks. We were scared seeing this happen, coughing up blood is a very bad sign, in and of itself, period. So we immediately fell to our knees as a family begging Jesus to heal her. Once Chrissy had gone through the ringer of tests and exams, it was determined that Chrissy had an extremely severe case of lung cancer. It has consumed her entire left lung, and was so expanded that it was pushing her heart hard to the right (which could cause a heart-attack), while pressing on the aorta (the main artery to the brain), and into her back ribs. All of this caused severe discomfort and the diagnosis wasn't good. According to the doctors, this case of cancer has passed all "stages", she was way alreday way advanced. They said if she were in her 60's this would be considered terminal, it was that severe. She'd be lucky to live five years.
Through all this, many many tears have been shed, and many many prayers have been prayed. We have friends all over the world praying for Chrissy. When I say all over the world, I mean (Canada, US, Brazil, Africa, UK, India, Sri Lanka), and so many more. Our ministry is all over this great planet, we are touching many souls with all our prayers. So our focus has been on praying that whatever our Lord's will is; so that it would give praise to our Lord. Chrissy and I talked about her dying and she accepted it, if it were God's will. The doctors have scared us from the start, because of the size and severity of it, so many of the suggestions they gave Chrissy has been really more end of life stuff. "Enjoy every chance you get, as time goes by the quality will lessen.." "When you feel good take advantage of it, it maybe a while before you feel that good again." These statements never sounded like a healing was taking place, but rather an end of life was on its way. So I can't explain in words what it felt like hearing and living this day to day for about two months. But I did tell the doctors while Chrissy was there, "Please don't pull any punches, tell us the truth, it wouldn't be fair to hide anything, no matter how severe." My concern was that Chrissy wouldn't get to do things, go places, and spend way more time with our five kids. I know I scared so many of you, but honestly I was only telling everyone what the doctors were telling me. While talkingto her about this was the only time I broke down in tears talking to Chrissy. I try to remain strong so she stays strong.
Now we can see plainly that Jesus is Lord and no man or doctor can control or make a determination in the life or death of an individual. God desired to heal Chrissy and in these most incredible results a miracle has begun as she begins to heal now. See in the beginning they did a CAT scan to determine the size and what affect it was having inside her body. Well it was massive (doctors words). It was something like 14cm x 10cm, dense and full of fluid, fluid they told us that was tainted with cancer in, protecting the other cancer from the chemo. The massive cancer was pressing against her heart, literally pushing it, and the aorta was also being pressed. Chrissy had back pains, abdominal pains, chest pains, you name it she was suffering. Well here we are only after 2 (two), yes only 2 chemo treatments into this, and they took another CAT scan. God's hand had stepped in and began and speed up the healing process. The doctor called these results in comparison to the start, "Incredible". The mass cancer reduced in size by 30%, PRAISE JESUS, the doctor said a 10% reduction would show progress. 30% was Incredible. Plus, ALL the fluid was completely gone from her lung, and because of such a fantastic reduction in size, it was no longer pressing or pushing on the heart or the aorta.
Always pray, "Jesus, I trust in You." How many times in all my blogs every single day, did I pray that pray. Countless! We must trust in Him, no matter how gloom and doom it looks. On the bottom on this blog is the link to the blog a wrote the Thursday before the results came back. Initially the doctor said the results on a quick overview on an x-ray don't show too much promise. Well I didn't accept that, I kept praying day in and day out. Talk about the Holy Spirit sending me a message of trust. If you didn't read that blog please do. I prayed for a healing, to whatever He so decided would Praise Him and heal her. After fully praying my 20 decade rosary, which I really enjoying praying. I got a message of peace sent to my heart, "You will be shocked in a Joyful trusting way." about Chrissy's healing, and that this healing will lead her into a ministry to minister to others suffering the same gloom and doom cancer she has.
Please pray everyday, to yourself,
over and over again, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
HOW MUCH DO YOU TRUST?
http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2010/07/how-much-do-you-trust.html
Yes, Miracles Do Happen
©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I just had to write about this today. This is far too exciting not to share it with everyone in a blog. As most everyone already knows, my wife Christine has a very severe life threatening case of lung cancer. Let me back the clock up, to day one, to truly one of this most devastating events in our family. May 6, 2010, Chrissy's doctor determined by way of x-ray that she had a massive growth in or around her left lung, (during a routine physical) and after that diagnosis came to her attention the very next day she began coughing up blood. She continued the blood coughing for about six weeks. We were scared seeing this happen, coughing up blood is a very bad sign, in and of itself, period. So we immediately fell to our knees as a family begging Jesus to heal her. Once Chrissy had gone through the ringer of tests and exams, it was determined that Chrissy had an extremely severe case of lung cancer. It has consumed her entire left lung, and was so expanded that it was pushing her heart hard to the right (which could cause a heart-attack), while pressing on the aorta (the main artery to the brain), and into her back ribs. All of this caused severe discomfort and the diagnosis wasn't good. According to the doctors, this case of cancer has passed all "stages", she was way alreday way advanced. They said if she were in her 60's this would be considered terminal, it was that severe. She'd be lucky to live five years.
Through all this, many many tears have been shed, and many many prayers have been prayed. We have friends all over the world praying for Chrissy. When I say all over the world, I mean (Canada, US, Brazil, Africa, UK, India, Sri Lanka), and so many more. Our ministry is all over this great planet, we are touching many souls with all our prayers. So our focus has been on praying that whatever our Lord's will is; so that it would give praise to our Lord. Chrissy and I talked about her dying and she accepted it, if it were God's will. The doctors have scared us from the start, because of the size and severity of it, so many of the suggestions they gave Chrissy has been really more end of life stuff. "Enjoy every chance you get, as time goes by the quality will lessen.." "When you feel good take advantage of it, it maybe a while before you feel that good again." These statements never sounded like a healing was taking place, but rather an end of life was on its way. So I can't explain in words what it felt like hearing and living this day to day for about two months. But I did tell the doctors while Chrissy was there, "Please don't pull any punches, tell us the truth, it wouldn't be fair to hide anything, no matter how severe." My concern was that Chrissy wouldn't get to do things, go places, and spend way more time with our five kids. I know I scared so many of you, but honestly I was only telling everyone what the doctors were telling me. While talkingto her about this was the only time I broke down in tears talking to Chrissy. I try to remain strong so she stays strong.
Now we can see plainly that Jesus is Lord and no man or doctor can control or make a determination in the life or death of an individual. God desired to heal Chrissy and in these most incredible results a miracle has begun as she begins to heal now. See in the beginning they did a CAT scan to determine the size and what affect it was having inside her body. Well it was massive (doctors words). It was something like 14cm x 10cm, dense and full of fluid, fluid they told us that was tainted with cancer in, protecting the other cancer from the chemo. The massive cancer was pressing against her heart, literally pushing it, and the aorta was also being pressed. Chrissy had back pains, abdominal pains, chest pains, you name it she was suffering. Well here we are only after 2 (two), yes only 2 chemo treatments into this, and they took another CAT scan. God's hand had stepped in and began and speed up the healing process. The doctor called these results in comparison to the start, "Incredible". The mass cancer reduced in size by 30%, PRAISE JESUS, the doctor said a 10% reduction would show progress. 30% was Incredible. Plus, ALL the fluid was completely gone from her lung, and because of such a fantastic reduction in size, it was no longer pressing or pushing on the heart or the aorta.
Always pray, "Jesus, I trust in You." How many times in all my blogs every single day, did I pray that pray. Countless! We must trust in Him, no matter how gloom and doom it looks. On the bottom on this blog is the link to the blog a wrote the Thursday before the results came back. Initially the doctor said the results on a quick overview on an x-ray don't show too much promise. Well I didn't accept that, I kept praying day in and day out. Talk about the Holy Spirit sending me a message of trust. If you didn't read that blog please do. I prayed for a healing, to whatever He so decided would Praise Him and heal her. After fully praying my 20 decade rosary, which I really enjoying praying. I got a message of peace sent to my heart, "You will be shocked in a Joyful trusting way." about Chrissy's healing, and that this healing will lead her into a ministry to minister to others suffering the same gloom and doom cancer she has.
Please pray everyday, to yourself,
over and over again, "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
HOW MUCH DO YOU TRUST?
http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2010/07/how-much-do-you-trust.html
Thursday, August 5, 2010
The Sorrow We Share
Beads of Joy 08-05-10
The Sorrow We Share©2010 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
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| The Sorrowful Mysteries Rosary |
A most sorrowful review today. I pray that this weeks bit of in-depth scripture review is not only helpful, but useful in your own meditations. I prefer reading as much scripture as possible when I spend time in meditation, especially when I am meditating on my Rosary. We know our Lord had to take this walk of death and sorrow in order to be able to save us. Even with that known, it is so sad to read how much they wanted to kill Him. Today let us look at each mystery and ponder the pain and suffering our Lord endured for us. We know Jesus did what He could in preparing His disciples for what was to come. To them initially this must have hurt tremendously.
Sorrowful Mysteries
1.Agony in the Garden (Mark 14:26-42)
And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. And Jesus said to them, "You will all fall away; for it is written, `I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee." Peter said to him, "Even though they all fall away, I will not." And Jesus said to him, "Truly, I say to you, this very night, before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times." But he said vehemently, "If I must die with you, I will not deny you." And they all said the same. And they went to a place which was called Gethsem'ane; and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I pray." And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch." And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible to thee; remove this cup from me; yet not what I will, but what thou wilt." And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, "Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to answer him. And he came the third time, and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come; the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand." © Revised Standard Version 1973
The bitter sweet part of suffering has begun. Satan knows our weaknesses, and he will do whatever he has to, to convince us that it's ok for us to go against God's will or wishes when he cons us into sinning. We know it's our flesh that weakens before our Spirit. We can see how in the scripture and then eventually Jesus dying on the cross how the body will die; and give into death, but the Spirit will can not be killed, but will live on.
2.Scourging at the Pillar (Matthew 27:11-31)
Now Jesus stood before the governor; and the governor asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus said, "You have said so." But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he made no answer. Then Pilate said to him, "Do you not hear how many things they testify against you?" But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge; so that the governor wondered greatly. Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. And they had then a notorious prisoner, called Barabbas.So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, "Whom do you want me to release for you, Barabbas or Jesus who is called Christ?" For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up. Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, "Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much over him today in a dream." Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the people to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. The governor again said to them, "Which of the two do you want me to release for you?" And they said, "Barabbas." Pilate said to them, "Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?" They all said, "Let him be crucified." And he said, "Why, what evil has he done?" But they shouted all the more, "Let him be crucified." So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves." And all the people answered, "His blood be on us and on our children!" Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified. © Revised Standard Version 1973
The pain and suffering is beyond comprehension. Jesus will take the place of all of us, even the place of Barabbas. God inevitably wants everyone to love Him and follow Him. Do we know Barabbas' heart and soul where touched? We'll never know, some movies try to portray that it did, while others don't. Obviously movies have no insight into the heart of Barabbas.
3.Crowning with Thorns (John 19:1-16)
Then Pilate took Jesus and scourged him. And the soldiers plaited a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and arrayed him in a purple robe; they came up to him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" and struck him with their hands. Pilate went out again, and said to them, "See, I am bringing him out to you, that you may know that I find no crime in him." So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, "Behold the man!" When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, "Crucify him, crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no crime in him." The Jews answered him, "We have a law, and by that law he ought to die, because he has made himself the Son of God." When Pilate heard these words, he was the more afraid; he entered the praetorium again and said to Jesus, "Where are you from?" But Jesus gave no answer. Pilate therefore said to him, "You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have power to release you, and power to crucify you?" Jesus answered him, "You would have no power over me unless it had been given you from above; therefore he who delivered me to you has the greater sin." Upon this Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, "If you release this man, you are not Caesar's friend; every one who makes himself a king sets himself against Caesar." When Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Pavement, and in Hebrew, Gabbatha. Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover; it was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, "Behold your King!" They cried out, "Away with him, away with him, crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your King?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar." Then he handed him over to them to be crucified. © Revised Standard Version 1973
The hatred toward our Lord was so severe. The Roman soldiers were just cruel in what they did by mocking Him. How do you feel when you are mocked? How about when you are mocked for loving Jesus? I personally consider it compliment. I must being doing something right, for them to see me doing my Lord's work.
4.Carrying of the Cross (John 19:17-22)
So they took Jesus, and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. Pilate also wrote a title and put it on the cross; it read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." Many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. The chief priests of the Jews then said to Pilate, "Do not write, `The King of the Jews,' but, `This man said, I am King of the Jews.'" Pilate answered, "What I have written I have written." © Revised Standard Version 1973
Just ponder on The Passion of The Christ for a moment. The entire experience was a horrific blood bath. I believe the Passion of the Christ movie was only half the truth of how bad it probably really was. I can't imagine how seriously they must have really beat Him.
5.Crucifixion and Death of our Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 27:32-56)
As they went out, they came upon a man of Cyrene, Simon by name; this man they compelled to carry his cross. And when they came to a place called Gol'gotha (which means the place of a skull), they offered him wine to drink, mingled with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots; then they sat down and kept watch over him there. And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, "This is Jesus the King of the Jews." Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross." So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, "He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him; for he said, `I am the Son of God.'" And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way. Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, la'ma sabachthani?" that is, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" And some of the bystanders hearing it said, "This man is calling Elijah." And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave it to him to drink. But the others said, "Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him." And Jesus cried again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom; and the earth shook, and the rocks were split; the tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe, and said, "Truly this was the Son of God!" There were also many women there, looking on from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him; among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee. © Revised Standard Version 1973
An experience only one can imagine by way of a movie. Our Lord has been nailed upon a cross to die, between the excessive blood lose and inability to be able to breath, this had to extremely painful. The words don't even come close to the pain He suffered. Look at this scene, seriously look at it over and over again. Jesus died for you and for me. He had to, so by His defeat of Death, we can spend eternal life with Him.
Pray today: "Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
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