Beads of Joy 02-28-11
Happiness and Security
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I am sure that this young man had the greatest intentions, and the utmost respectable reasons for living the way he did. But.. There's always a "but", where did this young man lose sight of things? How can he be talking directly to our Lord and Savior, receive direction from Him, and then go in the complete opposite direction? I can't for the sake of me figure that out. He was in direct contact with Jesus, and yet he still couldn't understand. How blessed to have been physically right there with Jesus. We live our lives based on faith without ever seeing Him in person, and yet we fully believe; maybe it's simply because we know the whole story, maybe not, who knows. But either way, there had to be a magnificent ora about Jesus whenever you were in contact with Him. Today we are reflecting on mark 10:17-27 (The Rich Man). I would have thought since this man was rich, to some degree he must have been intelligent. I know intelligence in worldly affairs don't mean intelligence with spiritual things; but if the man who has healed many and feed many and even raised one from the dead offers advise, wouldn't you listen?
He only asked this young man to, "...sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." He was really asked him to give up everything else and come to and follow after Jesus. I guess to many who are entangled in this world of pleasures, success and wealth; find this to be impossible and something that no matter who asks them, they won't comply. The attachments in this world in the end will be the very things that destroy you. When the ship is sinking, let go of the solid gold banister, and rise to the surface; if you refuse to let go, you to will sink and die at the bottom of the ocean. How and why do people tend to cling onto earthly things? The freedom you receive by letting go, is beyond what any words can convey. Dear Lord, you give our spirits such a refreshed feeling when we have so much less here on earth. I feel blessed to have less. Too many things will or can distract anyone from our Lord. See why I prefer less, actually almost nothing. Why? So I can spend 24/7/365 fully focused on Him.
Now we need to understand that Jesus loved the rich, just the same as He loves the poor. The only difference is that He knows the rich will have a much more difficult time letting go of all there things and status and ego; which is all driven by their pride, that letting go for them will be a nearly impossible task. Like Jesus said, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." This is serious stuff, Jesus wants to save them, but it will be difficult. Take a look at Proverbs in reflection to this, "Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse." Proverbs 28:6 and "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness." Proverbs 23:4, also there is one from Psalms, "Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked;" Psalms 37:16 . Back in Jesus' time they had the Psalms and Proverbs to reflect upon.
So what do we do, what does Jesus wish of us? Does he discourage wealth and success? Absolutely not, on the contrary, He wants us to be successful, but then what does He mean? You know when Jesus refers to the "eye of the needle" He wasn't literally taking about a needle per say. Rather He was referring to the lower gate of the city walls. That gate was very low for the average size man, in order for him to get through it, he'd have to kneel down (a humble position) and work his way through the opening. Do you see where this is all going. "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it." Matthew 7:13.. To our knees, we must be. If wealth is in our destiny, we must be wealthy in Jesus first, and then if our bank accounts are over flourishing, we need to give God thanks with the knowledge that it is all His, and that we thank Him for it, and intend to use it for His glory, unselfishly. It's when we become selfish, greedy, and prideful in our success that success becomes the downfall of an individuals eternity. And investing in "eternity" far exceeds any retirement on the beaches of Hawaii. Remember this wonderful quote, "I have found the paradox that if I love until it hurts, then there is no hurt, but only more love." ~Mother Teresa, and always, always trust in our Lord to guide your heart closer to Him.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
No Division of Heart - Please
Beads of Joy 02-27-11
No Division of Heart - Please
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Do we have two masters? Do you? Do I? Interesting concept, but how easily true this can be for anyone. An even further thought to that might be; Is it possible to have my allegiance split between two or more things, people, whatever in my life? Unfortunately it can be. Our life's inevitably are controlled by the way we think, do we think of how successful in business or at work we will be; well then everything we do will help guide us and direct us to that goal. But rather if all we think about is Jesus, and pleasing and honoring and not offending Him; well then we live each day knowing that that is what we are striving for. Continuing that thought we know that loving and following Jesus will lead us to Heaven, which is truly our ultimate goal. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 6:24-34 (God and Possessions). So honestly evaluate your own thoughts and where it is you stand before Jesus. Are your feet firmly on the ground at all times facing God's altar (I don't mean this literally). Are your inner thoughts always thinking about our Lord? "You cannot serve God and mammon." verse 24..
Mammon is referring to money, success, things of worldly value. You can as easily worship a sailboat as much as you can worship your financial self worth. The sailboat becomes a representation of your success, creating pride and a sort of feel good feeling about it. It pretty much becomes your God and Master in so many ways. Because you will find yourself taking care of it, maintaining it, cleaning it, showing it off, sharing it with photo's, boasting about it. You get the idea. This can be very dangerous for your soul and your eternal well being. You do know that if you simply replaced the word "sailboat" with anything or anyone, period (my bank account, my drug habit, a person I am in relationship with, my sporty new car, my big impressive house, my pride of cause, etc, etc); the thoughts are all the same on how that thing will become your Master. Jesus and Jesus alone must be the very first and only thought of focus when it comes to any kind of a Master in your life. Jesus said, "..understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father." John 10:38. So when we are thinking of Jesus we are automatically thinking of Almighty God. For they are one in the same.
So are you really serious about understanding and then living and then doing what is right before God? We all are, and that is fantastic, but know that we will fall and mess up and have to get back up. That's why we have to go to confession regularly, to keep our soul as clean and as ready for our Lord as it possibly can be. But if you are serious, then it is critical to begin immediately. You don't want to allow the strong-hold of satan to capture your heart, or allegiance towards anything that will draw you away from Jesus. What do you have an appetite for? No not necessarily food, though it could be. It is usually wealth, or possessions that you own, or maybe it's lust? So many things can easily capture our hearts. So now consider this series of questions, "Who died for your sin?, Who's death defeated the very darkness of death, so that you can spend life everlasting in Heaven with Him and His Father for all eternity?, Who gave you freedom from the bondage of this world, and its inevitable destruction? Who forgives you of all your wrong-doing, and sinfulness? Who is this person that has done this for you?" There is only one word, one name, one Lord who is the only one who has done all these things, and His name is Jesus.
So I challenge you in a way that many of you just might not do; make your life, all things JESUS - 100%, 24/7/365. Become addicted (not in a bad way), but become addicted with the desire, the continual desire from within your soul to please Him and worship Him, love Him. Every thought must lead to Jesus. The reason why, must lead to Jesus. The reason why NOT must also lead to Jesus. Do you understand that part? If we chose not to do something sinful or wrong or mean, it must be because of your love and your allegiance to Jesus, hence all things must lead to Jesus. This is actually much easier than it sounds. Keep Jesus in your life, on your mind, in your thoughts, at the end of the pen as you write at all times, you get the idea; without ever ceasing. This will and I mean it, this will create an inner Joy that will blow your mind. You will have so much peace inside, real peace, a very Godly peace. You won't see yourself as anxious or worried as much anymore, and you will find yourself trusting Jesus a whole bunch more. It is truly a wonderful feeling this kind of inner Godly, Trusting, Loving, Joy.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
No Division of Heart - Please
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Do we have two masters? Do you? Do I? Interesting concept, but how easily true this can be for anyone. An even further thought to that might be; Is it possible to have my allegiance split between two or more things, people, whatever in my life? Unfortunately it can be. Our life's inevitably are controlled by the way we think, do we think of how successful in business or at work we will be; well then everything we do will help guide us and direct us to that goal. But rather if all we think about is Jesus, and pleasing and honoring and not offending Him; well then we live each day knowing that that is what we are striving for. Continuing that thought we know that loving and following Jesus will lead us to Heaven, which is truly our ultimate goal. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 6:24-34 (God and Possessions). So honestly evaluate your own thoughts and where it is you stand before Jesus. Are your feet firmly on the ground at all times facing God's altar (I don't mean this literally). Are your inner thoughts always thinking about our Lord? "You cannot serve God and mammon." verse 24..
Mammon is referring to money, success, things of worldly value. You can as easily worship a sailboat as much as you can worship your financial self worth. The sailboat becomes a representation of your success, creating pride and a sort of feel good feeling about it. It pretty much becomes your God and Master in so many ways. Because you will find yourself taking care of it, maintaining it, cleaning it, showing it off, sharing it with photo's, boasting about it. You get the idea. This can be very dangerous for your soul and your eternal well being. You do know that if you simply replaced the word "sailboat" with anything or anyone, period (my bank account, my drug habit, a person I am in relationship with, my sporty new car, my big impressive house, my pride of cause, etc, etc); the thoughts are all the same on how that thing will become your Master. Jesus and Jesus alone must be the very first and only thought of focus when it comes to any kind of a Master in your life. Jesus said, "..understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father." John 10:38. So when we are thinking of Jesus we are automatically thinking of Almighty God. For they are one in the same.
So are you really serious about understanding and then living and then doing what is right before God? We all are, and that is fantastic, but know that we will fall and mess up and have to get back up. That's why we have to go to confession regularly, to keep our soul as clean and as ready for our Lord as it possibly can be. But if you are serious, then it is critical to begin immediately. You don't want to allow the strong-hold of satan to capture your heart, or allegiance towards anything that will draw you away from Jesus. What do you have an appetite for? No not necessarily food, though it could be. It is usually wealth, or possessions that you own, or maybe it's lust? So many things can easily capture our hearts. So now consider this series of questions, "Who died for your sin?, Who's death defeated the very darkness of death, so that you can spend life everlasting in Heaven with Him and His Father for all eternity?, Who gave you freedom from the bondage of this world, and its inevitable destruction? Who forgives you of all your wrong-doing, and sinfulness? Who is this person that has done this for you?" There is only one word, one name, one Lord who is the only one who has done all these things, and His name is Jesus.
So I challenge you in a way that many of you just might not do; make your life, all things JESUS - 100%, 24/7/365. Become addicted (not in a bad way), but become addicted with the desire, the continual desire from within your soul to please Him and worship Him, love Him. Every thought must lead to Jesus. The reason why, must lead to Jesus. The reason why NOT must also lead to Jesus. Do you understand that part? If we chose not to do something sinful or wrong or mean, it must be because of your love and your allegiance to Jesus, hence all things must lead to Jesus. This is actually much easier than it sounds. Keep Jesus in your life, on your mind, in your thoughts, at the end of the pen as you write at all times, you get the idea; without ever ceasing. This will and I mean it, this will create an inner Joy that will blow your mind. You will have so much peace inside, real peace, a very Godly peace. You won't see yourself as anxious or worried as much anymore, and you will find yourself trusting Jesus a whole bunch more. It is truly a wonderful feeling this kind of inner Godly, Trusting, Loving, Joy.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Repost of All Quotes #2
Beads of Joy 02-26-11
Repost of All Quotes #2
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I hope this is helpful for all of you, so you can easily retract back to quotes I have posted; that I got out the books of the saints and many other locations for quotes. This is will be a regular "Saturday Blog". Enjoy.
"Let us ask our Lord to work in us and through us, and let us do our utmost to draw Him down into our hearts, for He Himself has said: "Without Me you can do nothing." ~ St. Madeleine Sophie Barat
"Water is different from hydrogen and oxygen in isolation. Husband and wife, in their love for one another, find that they are drawn to create something greater then themselves, which is the incarnation of their mutual love." LIFE IS WORTH LIVING ~Archbishop Fulton Sheen
"If you cannot find the time to say five decades all together, say a decade here and a decade there; you will thus be able, in spite of your work and the calls upon your time, to complete the whole Rosary before going to bed."
THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"It is not so much the length of a prayer as the fervour with which it is said which pleases God and touches his heart. A single Hail Mary said properly is worth more than a hundred and fifty said badly."
THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"So arm yourself with the arms of God, with the holy Rosary, and you will crush the devil's head and stand firm in the face of all his temptations. That is why even a pair of rosary beads is so terrible to the devil, and why the saints have used them to fetter him and drive him from the bodies of those who were possessed."
THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"..so from the hands of Mary nothing flows but the graces and mercies which she dispenses to all who take shelter under her protection."
PREPARATION FOR DEATH ~St. Alphonsus de Liguori
"Christian wife! Follow in the footsteps of the ideal of all womanhood, the Blessed Mother of God; in joy and in sorrow, she will be your advocate at the throne of her Son." ~Saint John Marie Vianney
“When you say your Rosary, the angels rejoice, the Blessed Trinity delights in it, my Son finds joy in it too, and I myself am happier than you can possibly guess. After the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, there is nothing in the Church that I love as much as the Rosary.”
~Our Lady to Blessed Alan de la Roche
"Good example is the most efficacious apostolate. You must be as lighted lanterns and shine like brilliant chandeliers among men. By your good example and your words, animate others to know and love God." ~ St. Mary Joseph Rossello
"We must pray without tiring, for the salvation of mankind does not depend on material success; nor on sciences that cloud the intellect. Neither does it depend on arms and human industries, but on Jesus alone."~St. Frances Xavier Cabrini
"The meditation on the mysteries and prayers of the Rosary is the easiest of all prayers, because the diversity of the virtues of our Lord and the different situations of his life which we study, refresh and fortify our mind in a wonderful way and help us to avoid distractions." ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"If you have already attained, by the grace of God, a high degree of prayer, keep up the practice of saying the Holy Rosary if you wish to remain in that state and by it to grow in humility."
~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"But how can worldlings, living in the midst of sins, in the midst of earthly pleasures and dangerous occasions, expect a happy death ? God warns sinners that at death they shall seek and shall not find him. He tells us that the hour of death shall be the time, not of mercy, but of vengeance. I will repay them in due time."
~ST. ALPHONSUS MARIA DE LIGUORI
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Repost of All Quotes #2
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I hope this is helpful for all of you, so you can easily retract back to quotes I have posted; that I got out the books of the saints and many other locations for quotes. This is will be a regular "Saturday Blog". Enjoy.
"Let us ask our Lord to work in us and through us, and let us do our utmost to draw Him down into our hearts, for He Himself has said: "Without Me you can do nothing." ~ St. Madeleine Sophie Barat
"Water is different from hydrogen and oxygen in isolation. Husband and wife, in their love for one another, find that they are drawn to create something greater then themselves, which is the incarnation of their mutual love." LIFE IS WORTH LIVING ~Archbishop Fulton Sheen
"If you cannot find the time to say five decades all together, say a decade here and a decade there; you will thus be able, in spite of your work and the calls upon your time, to complete the whole Rosary before going to bed."
THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"It is not so much the length of a prayer as the fervour with which it is said which pleases God and touches his heart. A single Hail Mary said properly is worth more than a hundred and fifty said badly."
THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"So arm yourself with the arms of God, with the holy Rosary, and you will crush the devil's head and stand firm in the face of all his temptations. That is why even a pair of rosary beads is so terrible to the devil, and why the saints have used them to fetter him and drive him from the bodies of those who were possessed."
THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"..so from the hands of Mary nothing flows but the graces and mercies which she dispenses to all who take shelter under her protection."
PREPARATION FOR DEATH ~St. Alphonsus de Liguori
"Christian wife! Follow in the footsteps of the ideal of all womanhood, the Blessed Mother of God; in joy and in sorrow, she will be your advocate at the throne of her Son." ~Saint John Marie Vianney
“When you say your Rosary, the angels rejoice, the Blessed Trinity delights in it, my Son finds joy in it too, and I myself am happier than you can possibly guess. After the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, there is nothing in the Church that I love as much as the Rosary.”
~Our Lady to Blessed Alan de la Roche
"Good example is the most efficacious apostolate. You must be as lighted lanterns and shine like brilliant chandeliers among men. By your good example and your words, animate others to know and love God." ~ St. Mary Joseph Rossello
"We must pray without tiring, for the salvation of mankind does not depend on material success; nor on sciences that cloud the intellect. Neither does it depend on arms and human industries, but on Jesus alone."~St. Frances Xavier Cabrini
"The meditation on the mysteries and prayers of the Rosary is the easiest of all prayers, because the diversity of the virtues of our Lord and the different situations of his life which we study, refresh and fortify our mind in a wonderful way and help us to avoid distractions." ~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"If you have already attained, by the grace of God, a high degree of prayer, keep up the practice of saying the Holy Rosary if you wish to remain in that state and by it to grow in humility."
~St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"But how can worldlings, living in the midst of sins, in the midst of earthly pleasures and dangerous occasions, expect a happy death ? God warns sinners that at death they shall seek and shall not find him. He tells us that the hour of death shall be the time, not of mercy, but of vengeance. I will repay them in due time."
~ST. ALPHONSUS MARIA DE LIGUORI
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Mary - At The Cross
Beads of Joy 02-23-11
"Mary - At The Cross with Jesus"©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
"Mary - At The Cross with Jesus"©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
My Friends,
It is always so wonderful when we get the chance to chat about our Lord's mother. She has been with Jesus faithfully for thirty three years now; and here she sits at the foot of His cross looking up at her Son who is dying. The love she has for her Son is really showing now, everyone around the cross is looking at her. Some people are asking, "Who is she?" while others are mocking her. "Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” John 19:25-26. Mary's love for her Son, is not only that love a mother has for her son in the natural sense; but her love supersedes that because of the fact at who Jesus really is. And that He is God's Son, and yes He is Mary's Son. She knew she would suffer these things, she knew He had to fulfill His Father's will. God sent Jesus to save us, not to just blend into society.
Let us reflect on the heart of a woman that is full of tears, for her Son, a Savior, the Son she loved dearly with all her heart. I can not even imagine what she must have felt looking up at that cross seeing her Son nailed to it. Here in this scene she must have been pondering and remember that simple; yet priceless moments when she would hold her Son. She may have thought about His first words, or and His first smile. How about when a baby begins to realize they can grab and hold things; usually starting that out with grabbing hold of your fingers. Oh how so many of these thoughts must have flowed through her heart at the time of this execution of her Son.
How can we show our love for our Blessed Mother? What can we do in our lives in support of her devout devotion in our Savior? There are a few very simple devotions we can commit to that we allow Mother Mary to be by our side as we strive to be closer and closer to Jesus. Mary will only guide us and help us along the way, but she will also speak to her Son on our behalf. I will share a few simple prayerful ideas to maybe spice up your devotional quest. First we will begin with Angelus. This was my very first devotion to Mary, which was immediately followed by me praying the Rosary. But this simple prayer makes the heart so much more fonder of our Lady. And it's simplicity makes it eventually easy enough to memorize. This prayer can be prayed in many ways. I simply prayer it every morning, before I started my day. It is recommended to be prayed three times a day. 6am, noon, 6pm.
The Angelus
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3R7FukH0GFA&fea
V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.R. And she conceived by the Holy Spirit.Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death.V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord.R. Be it done unto me according to thy word.Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death.V. And the Word was made Flesh.
R. And dwelt among us.Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death.V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ Our Lord.R. Amen.
The Angelus
41. What we have to say about the Angelus is meant to be only a simple but earnest exhortation to continue its traditional recitation wherever and whenever possible. The Angelus does not need to be revised, because of its simple structure, its biblical character, its historical origin which links it to the prayer for peace and safety, and its quasi-liturgical rhythm which sanctifies different moments during the day, and because it reminds us of the Paschal Mystery, in which recalling the Incarnation of the Son of God we pray that we may be led "through his passion and cross to the glory of his resurrection."(109) These factors ensure that the Angelus despite the passing of centuries retains an unaltered value and an intact freshness. It is true that certain customs traditionally linked with the recitation of the Angelus have disappeared or can continue only with difficulty in modern life. But these are marginal elements. The value of contemplation on the mystery of the Incarnation of the Word, of the greeting to the Virgin, and of recourse to her merciful intercession remains unchanged. And despite the changed conditions of the times, for the majority of people there remain unaltered the characteristic periods of the day-morning, noon and evening-which mark the periods of their activity and constitute an invitation to pause in prayer. (Marialis Cultus)
Apostolic Exhortation of His Holiness Paul VI - Marialis Cultus (Exciting to read)
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/paul_vi/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_p-vi_exh_19740202_marialis-cultus_en.html
"Jesus, I trust in You."
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
Come PRAY THE ROSARY with us every evening Monday through Friday 9pm EST with our
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Your brother in Christ Jesus
And His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Chair of St Peter
Beads of Joy 02-22-11
Feast of The Chair of St Peter
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This wonderful Apostle needs no introduction, we all know Peter. But for those who don't know Peter, I ask who is Peter? "As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen." Matthew 4:18. What did Jesus say to Peter at his boat? Jesus says this in The Gospel of Matthew, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." Matthew 16:18. Ok, now this all making sense I think I know who Peter is. Where else in scripture is Peter with Jesus?
Jesus Walking On Water Calls Peter To Come
Matthew 14:25-33
"Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah
Matthew 16:13-20
"When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah."
The Transfiguration
Matthew 17:1-13
"After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” The disciples asked him, “Why then do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?” Jesus replied, “To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore all things. But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist. "
Jesus Reinstates Peter
John 21:15-19
"When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”
There is just so much to share about who St. Peter the Apostle was and is. He is a true man of honor and there is never only one time his allegiance was in question. In all fairness in sharing the whole story, many know it was Peter who denied Jesus, and Jesus predicted it. But Peter repented and remained loyal to Jesus after that. Below here I have listed to the best of my ability the order in which Jesus and Peter interact through the four gospels. I hope this is helpful.
Peter in The Gospels (in order)
Peter Is Chosen, and Called The Rock (Mark 1:16-18)
Peter's mother in law is Healed (Luke 4:38-39)
Jesus Walks on The Water, calling Peter (Matthew 14:22-33)
Peter Declares Jesus as Messiah (Matthew 16:13-20)
Jesus Predicts His Death, Peter steps In (Matthew 16:21-28)
Transfiguration. w/Peter James and John (Matthew 17:1-9)
Jesus Washes The Disciples Feet (John 13:1-11)
Jesus Foretold of Peters Denial (Mark 14:26-31)
Jesus Prays at Gethsemane, Peter sleeps (Mark 14:32-42)
Jesus is Arrested, Peter Steps In (John 18:1-12)
Peter Denies Jesus (Luke 22:54-62)
The Resurrection of Jesus, to the tomb (Luke 24:1-12)
Peter Escapes Prison, An angel guided him (Acts 12:1-11)
Peter's Death: "It is certain that Peter died in Rome and that his martyrdom came during the reign of Emperor Nero, probably in 64. Testimony of his martyrdom is extensive, including Origen, Eusebius of Caesarea, St. Clement I of Rome, St. Ignatius, and St. Irenaeus. According to rich tradition, Peter was crucified on the Vatican Hill upside down because he declared himself unworthy to die in the same manner as the Lord. He was then buried on Vatican Hill, and excavations under St. Peter’s Basilica have unearthed his probable tomb, and his relics are now enshrined under the high altar of St. Peter’s. From the earliest days of the Church, Peter was recognized as the Prince of the Apostles and the first Supreme Pontiff; his see, Rome, has thus enjoyed the position of primacy over the entire Catholic Church. While Peter’s chief feast day is June 29, he is also honored on February 22 and November 18. In liturgical art, he is depicted as an elderly man holding a key and a book. His symbols include an inverted cross, a boat, and the cock that crowed." excerpt from Catholic Online
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
Feast of The Chair of St Peter
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This wonderful Apostle needs no introduction, we all know Peter. But for those who don't know Peter, I ask who is Peter? "As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen." Matthew 4:18. What did Jesus say to Peter at his boat? Jesus says this in The Gospel of Matthew, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." Matthew 16:18. Ok, now this all making sense I think I know who Peter is. Where else in scripture is Peter with Jesus?
Jesus Walking On Water Calls Peter To Come
Matthew 14:25-33
"Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah
Matthew 16:13-20
"When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah."
The Transfiguration
Matthew 17:1-13
"After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” The disciples asked him, “Why then do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?” Jesus replied, “To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore all things. But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist. "
Jesus Reinstates Peter
John 21:15-19
"When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”
There is just so much to share about who St. Peter the Apostle was and is. He is a true man of honor and there is never only one time his allegiance was in question. In all fairness in sharing the whole story, many know it was Peter who denied Jesus, and Jesus predicted it. But Peter repented and remained loyal to Jesus after that. Below here I have listed to the best of my ability the order in which Jesus and Peter interact through the four gospels. I hope this is helpful.
Peter in The Gospels (in order)
Peter Is Chosen, and Called The Rock (Mark 1:16-18)
Peter's mother in law is Healed (Luke 4:38-39)
Jesus Walks on The Water, calling Peter (Matthew 14:22-33)
Peter Declares Jesus as Messiah (Matthew 16:13-20)
Jesus Predicts His Death, Peter steps In (Matthew 16:21-28)
Transfiguration. w/Peter James and John (Matthew 17:1-9)
Jesus Washes The Disciples Feet (John 13:1-11)
Jesus Foretold of Peters Denial (Mark 14:26-31)
Jesus Prays at Gethsemane, Peter sleeps (Mark 14:32-42)
Jesus is Arrested, Peter Steps In (John 18:1-12)
Peter Denies Jesus (Luke 22:54-62)
The Resurrection of Jesus, to the tomb (Luke 24:1-12)
Peter Escapes Prison, An angel guided him (Acts 12:1-11)
Peter's Death: "It is certain that Peter died in Rome and that his martyrdom came during the reign of Emperor Nero, probably in 64. Testimony of his martyrdom is extensive, including Origen, Eusebius of Caesarea, St. Clement I of Rome, St. Ignatius, and St. Irenaeus. According to rich tradition, Peter was crucified on the Vatican Hill upside down because he declared himself unworthy to die in the same manner as the Lord. He was then buried on Vatican Hill, and excavations under St. Peter’s Basilica have unearthed his probable tomb, and his relics are now enshrined under the high altar of St. Peter’s. From the earliest days of the Church, Peter was recognized as the Prince of the Apostles and the first Supreme Pontiff; his see, Rome, has thus enjoyed the position of primacy over the entire Catholic Church. While Peter’s chief feast day is June 29, he is also honored on February 22 and November 18. In liturgical art, he is depicted as an elderly man holding a key and a book. His symbols include an inverted cross, a boat, and the cock that crowed." excerpt from Catholic Online
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
Monday, February 21, 2011
Seek Him With Faith and Trust
Beads of Joy 02-21-11
Seek Him With Faith and Trust
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another fantastic week has begun, and in today's reflection we see how Jesus heals a young boy. This is our Lord's very first miracle after He was seen by Peter, James and John at the Transfiguration. The connection is that God brought Heaven down to comfort His Son in the Transfiguration; and so Jesus was brought down to this distressed father to heal his son. I don't think that was too far a stretch to connect. This healing is very powerful, many people witnessed this, and many people knew this man and his son. Today's gospel is Mark 9:14-29 (Jesus Heals Possessed Boy). Let us see who was involved in this miraculous healing, the very distressed father, the young demonically possessed boy, Jesus, and a couple of disciples who couldn't heal the boy. That's a rather interesting group of people all together. But that list doesn't mean anything but the fact that there was going to be a blessing. How do I know that? Because Jesus is in their midst.
Kudos and a high five to this very distressed father, a true man of honor, one who's heart is for Jesus no doubt. Picture the scene: This dad sees Jesus, knows who He is, rushes over to Him on behalf of his son, most likely knelt or bowed down to Jesus (he did call him Teacher which means Rabbi), he asked for a healing for his son, but I'd say he may have been begging, knowing the disciples couldn't heal him, figuring maybe his son couldn't be healed. This man was brought humbly to his knees before a large crowd of people. An absolutely moving scene to have witnessed. This mans love for his son shines brightly in today's scripture. There was no medication back then for epilepsy, my grandma, my mother's mom had epilepsy. From when I was a little kid I'd see her have seizures, fall on the floor and lay there for a while. My grandpa, bless his soul, really loved grandma. As soon as he knew she was going into a seizure, he'd hold her tight, now my grandma was small; but when under an epileptic seizure she gained much strength, so holding her was a challenge even for my grandma who was a navy boxer. But he'd hold her and say, "Susan, Susan, look at me, relax, relax." Then he made sure she didn't swallow her tongue. Pretty dramatic scene, but normal to me seeing it all my life. So I can relate to some degree with what this dad had to content with.
Now I think of this poor young boy who is suffering with this condition which was apparently being caused by a demon. He had to be considered strange, weird, different, probably even called all sorts of names growing up, like lunatic, crazy. When people don't understand things and they seem shocked, we tend to consider it out of the norm and we don't accept it. Plus think about the way the other kids probably treated him, kids can be even crueler than adults. This child must have been living a lonely, sad life, breaking his heart day in and day out, probably with virtually any friends in his life. This would really affect a dad or mom seeing this everyday, further explaining the dads anguish of stress begging Jesus on his sons behalf for a healing. All of us can relate to these things, either being the one under going suffering from possibly an illness or we are closely related to one who suffers daily. This miracle scripture today shows us how God does intervene when we know we can't fix it, when we know our hopes seems to be shattered. This story tells us not to ever give up hope for a healing.
Today this father succeeded in his plea to Jesus to save his son. Let us never lose hope that we can't have the same healing. Be brave and bold like this father was. Let the love you have for another combine with the love you have for Jesus, and as soon as you possibly can, unite the two together. And pray and pray and pray, asking for God's mercy. And then trust and trust and trust, that in His time you will be healed and blessed in accord to His will. Pray this simple prayer if you need help in starting this quest of prayer and trust.
"My Lord Jesus, please help my unbelief. I know sometimes it seems like I have doubt in You Lord, but I don't. I think that's the human fear that is within me. My heart knows You, and my Spirit is alive inside me desiring to get closer to You. Also know my Lord, I place all my trust in You, You alone I give my full trust and allegiance to every single blessed day You allow me to walk the earth. Thank You for everything, I love You with all my heart Lord. Amen."
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Seek Him With Faith and Trust
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Another fantastic week has begun, and in today's reflection we see how Jesus heals a young boy. This is our Lord's very first miracle after He was seen by Peter, James and John at the Transfiguration. The connection is that God brought Heaven down to comfort His Son in the Transfiguration; and so Jesus was brought down to this distressed father to heal his son. I don't think that was too far a stretch to connect. This healing is very powerful, many people witnessed this, and many people knew this man and his son. Today's gospel is Mark 9:14-29 (Jesus Heals Possessed Boy). Let us see who was involved in this miraculous healing, the very distressed father, the young demonically possessed boy, Jesus, and a couple of disciples who couldn't heal the boy. That's a rather interesting group of people all together. But that list doesn't mean anything but the fact that there was going to be a blessing. How do I know that? Because Jesus is in their midst.
Kudos and a high five to this very distressed father, a true man of honor, one who's heart is for Jesus no doubt. Picture the scene: This dad sees Jesus, knows who He is, rushes over to Him on behalf of his son, most likely knelt or bowed down to Jesus (he did call him Teacher which means Rabbi), he asked for a healing for his son, but I'd say he may have been begging, knowing the disciples couldn't heal him, figuring maybe his son couldn't be healed. This man was brought humbly to his knees before a large crowd of people. An absolutely moving scene to have witnessed. This mans love for his son shines brightly in today's scripture. There was no medication back then for epilepsy, my grandma, my mother's mom had epilepsy. From when I was a little kid I'd see her have seizures, fall on the floor and lay there for a while. My grandpa, bless his soul, really loved grandma. As soon as he knew she was going into a seizure, he'd hold her tight, now my grandma was small; but when under an epileptic seizure she gained much strength, so holding her was a challenge even for my grandma who was a navy boxer. But he'd hold her and say, "Susan, Susan, look at me, relax, relax." Then he made sure she didn't swallow her tongue. Pretty dramatic scene, but normal to me seeing it all my life. So I can relate to some degree with what this dad had to content with.
Now I think of this poor young boy who is suffering with this condition which was apparently being caused by a demon. He had to be considered strange, weird, different, probably even called all sorts of names growing up, like lunatic, crazy. When people don't understand things and they seem shocked, we tend to consider it out of the norm and we don't accept it. Plus think about the way the other kids probably treated him, kids can be even crueler than adults. This child must have been living a lonely, sad life, breaking his heart day in and day out, probably with virtually any friends in his life. This would really affect a dad or mom seeing this everyday, further explaining the dads anguish of stress begging Jesus on his sons behalf for a healing. All of us can relate to these things, either being the one under going suffering from possibly an illness or we are closely related to one who suffers daily. This miracle scripture today shows us how God does intervene when we know we can't fix it, when we know our hopes seems to be shattered. This story tells us not to ever give up hope for a healing.
Today this father succeeded in his plea to Jesus to save his son. Let us never lose hope that we can't have the same healing. Be brave and bold like this father was. Let the love you have for another combine with the love you have for Jesus, and as soon as you possibly can, unite the two together. And pray and pray and pray, asking for God's mercy. And then trust and trust and trust, that in His time you will be healed and blessed in accord to His will. Pray this simple prayer if you need help in starting this quest of prayer and trust.
"My Lord Jesus, please help my unbelief. I know sometimes it seems like I have doubt in You Lord, but I don't. I think that's the human fear that is within me. My heart knows You, and my Spirit is alive inside me desiring to get closer to You. Also know my Lord, I place all my trust in You, You alone I give my full trust and allegiance to every single blessed day You allow me to walk the earth. Thank You for everything, I love You with all my heart Lord. Amen."
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Seek Out The Good In Others
Beads of Joy 02-20-11
Seek Out The Good In Others
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
So today we will look at something Jesus really wants us to do. I'm not going to say it will be easy, I know for a fact at times, it is next to impossible. But in all things Jesus, we must do our best, to do what He wishes us to do. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 5:38-48 (Love Your Enemies). Now do you see what I mean, by the title of the scripture, this isn't going to be easy. The part I do find easy is in the general reflection to that thought. Meaning the people in general that hate us, talk bad about us, offend our faith, you know what I mean. What is difficult is when the enemy hit's close to home, and spiritual, emotional and humble blood is shed by their actions. Then it gets personal and then it becomes very difficult to obey this command of our Lord. I don't claim to be able to do all things Jesus so easily, I to have many challenges, but I won't stop trying to do my best to do His will. God knows our hearts, He knows our truest of true intentions. We can not lie to Him, even in quiet of our heart, He knows what we are really doing our best to accomplish.
A little biblical reflection here, do you know what the old testament said about how we are to respond to our enemies? Well let's see what it says, what to do if we are hurt by them, "But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise." Exodus 21:23-25, pretty serious response don't you think? The old testament didn't back down on responding to evil with evil. God's mercy is found in the old testament, but let's look at another strong verse responding to one who is guilty, "The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against a fellow Israelite, then do to the false witness as that witness intended to do to the other party. You must purge the evil from among you. The rest of the people will hear of this and be afraid, and never again will such an evil thing be done among you. Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." Deuteronomy 19:18-21. It is a little scary how fierce of a response was encouraged in the old testament. But Jesus changed all this in the new testament.
Now that we have seen the evil for evil response in the old testament, let us look for the mercy we also find in the old testament. "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." Leviticus 19:18. See now how even the old testament teaches us to love our neighbor. God wants us to be sisters and brothers to one another. In doing that, and having that mindset, we do not do anything to harm one another. And in that relationship, brothers and sisters always give each other a "pass" and they forgive and forget and move on. But again, this is so difficult when it is really happening to you and it is hitting super close to home. The best way to handle it, at least for me, is to pray for your enemies as you and me have identified them to be. These are people who step their way into your life, your family and your business without your ok, they are unwelcome intruders. These are people who in the end ultimately destroy your family. This is difficult indeed. When others from the outside stick their nose into your life, we can only do our best to be like Jesus; by living and breathing and doing all we can to follow Jesus' example.
Just guessing, but I think many of you sense that this is personal. You are right in thinking that, but also know that in the fire and smoke of all this craziness and intrusion of privacy; I pray for my enemies and those seeking to separate us. I really do. If I didn't I know for a fact that I would go crazy. It is through my Lord and our Blessed Mother, that I find peace and comfort. You see it's God's grace that has comforted my angry hurt and wounded heart. And in that grace I am able to find forgiveness and love for the unlovable. What exactly is this "grace" I am speaking about? you ask. It's the grace to love and treat those who very well don't deserve it, with kindness, love and mercy. And by God's strength inside our hearts we are able to do just that. Consider this, "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5. And I will end with this scripture and thought, "so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." verse 46 in today's gospel. We are all God's children, and as His children, let us only continue to make peace between one another, no matter how difficult it will be. Pray everyday and it will get much easier.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
Seek Out The Good In Others
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
So today we will look at something Jesus really wants us to do. I'm not going to say it will be easy, I know for a fact at times, it is next to impossible. But in all things Jesus, we must do our best, to do what He wishes us to do. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 5:38-48 (Love Your Enemies). Now do you see what I mean, by the title of the scripture, this isn't going to be easy. The part I do find easy is in the general reflection to that thought. Meaning the people in general that hate us, talk bad about us, offend our faith, you know what I mean. What is difficult is when the enemy hit's close to home, and spiritual, emotional and humble blood is shed by their actions. Then it gets personal and then it becomes very difficult to obey this command of our Lord. I don't claim to be able to do all things Jesus so easily, I to have many challenges, but I won't stop trying to do my best to do His will. God knows our hearts, He knows our truest of true intentions. We can not lie to Him, even in quiet of our heart, He knows what we are really doing our best to accomplish.
A little biblical reflection here, do you know what the old testament said about how we are to respond to our enemies? Well let's see what it says, what to do if we are hurt by them, "But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise." Exodus 21:23-25, pretty serious response don't you think? The old testament didn't back down on responding to evil with evil. God's mercy is found in the old testament, but let's look at another strong verse responding to one who is guilty, "The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against a fellow Israelite, then do to the false witness as that witness intended to do to the other party. You must purge the evil from among you. The rest of the people will hear of this and be afraid, and never again will such an evil thing be done among you. Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." Deuteronomy 19:18-21. It is a little scary how fierce of a response was encouraged in the old testament. But Jesus changed all this in the new testament.
Now that we have seen the evil for evil response in the old testament, let us look for the mercy we also find in the old testament. "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." Leviticus 19:18. See now how even the old testament teaches us to love our neighbor. God wants us to be sisters and brothers to one another. In doing that, and having that mindset, we do not do anything to harm one another. And in that relationship, brothers and sisters always give each other a "pass" and they forgive and forget and move on. But again, this is so difficult when it is really happening to you and it is hitting super close to home. The best way to handle it, at least for me, is to pray for your enemies as you and me have identified them to be. These are people who step their way into your life, your family and your business without your ok, they are unwelcome intruders. These are people who in the end ultimately destroy your family. This is difficult indeed. When others from the outside stick their nose into your life, we can only do our best to be like Jesus; by living and breathing and doing all we can to follow Jesus' example.
Just guessing, but I think many of you sense that this is personal. You are right in thinking that, but also know that in the fire and smoke of all this craziness and intrusion of privacy; I pray for my enemies and those seeking to separate us. I really do. If I didn't I know for a fact that I would go crazy. It is through my Lord and our Blessed Mother, that I find peace and comfort. You see it's God's grace that has comforted my angry hurt and wounded heart. And in that grace I am able to find forgiveness and love for the unlovable. What exactly is this "grace" I am speaking about? you ask. It's the grace to love and treat those who very well don't deserve it, with kindness, love and mercy. And by God's strength inside our hearts we are able to do just that. Consider this, "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5. And I will end with this scripture and thought, "so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." verse 46 in today's gospel. We are all God's children, and as His children, let us only continue to make peace between one another, no matter how difficult it will be. Pray everyday and it will get much easier.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Quotes I Have Shared #1
Beads of Joy 02-19-11
Quotes I Have Shared #1
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
As promised I am listing all the quotes I have been sharing these past few weeks. I do save all the quotes I either find online or get from one of the saints books, so every once in a while I pull them all together and list them like this, in case anyone wants to be able to refer back to them. This list includes all the ones I have posted this year so far. I hope they re inspire you. May God richly bless you in your quest to further His Kingdom.
"Where Mary is present, the evil one is absent. One of the unmistakable signs that a person is led by the Spirit of God is the devotion he has to Mary, and his habit of thinking and speaking of her." TREATISE ON TRUE DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN ~St. Louis de Montfort
"Jesus, our Saviour, true God and true man must be the ultimate end of all our other devotions; otherwise they would be false and misleading. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and end of everything. "We labour," says St. Paul, "only to make all men perfect in Jesus Christ." TREATISE ON TRUE DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN
~St. Louis de Montfort
"To Mary alone God gave the keys of the cellars of divine love and the ability to enter the most sublime and secret ways of perfection, and lead others along them. Mary alone gives to the unfortunate children of unfaithful Eve entry into that earthly paradise where they may walk pleasantly with God and be safely hidden from their enemies." TREATISE ON TRUE DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN ~St. Louis de Montfort
"To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest human achievement." ~Saint Augustine
"We shall steer safely through every storm so long as our heart is right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God."
~ St. Francis de Sales
"The power of Jesus as seen by the world seems foolish; they see a dead man up on a cross. Yet the true power of that cross is without restraints, the man up on it; is God and He can not be killed, and power He attains cannot be measured." ~Jim Dacey Jr SFO
"Mary's womb became the sacred place where our Blessed Lord's tiny little body was formed. Consider her womb as an altar, a place where God's hand fashioned His Son to become human to be born to die to save us." ~Jim Dacey Jr SFO
"We shall steer safely through every storm so long as our heart is right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God."
~ St. Francis de Sales
"To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest human achievement." ~Saint Augustine
"We are at Jesus' disposal. If he wants you to be sick in bed, if he wants you to proclaim His work in the street, if he wants you to clean the toilets all day, that's all right, everything is all right. We must say, "I belong to you. You can do whatever you like." And this..is our strength, and this is the joy of the Lord." ~ Mother Teresa of Calcutta
"Let us meditate, then, on the life and sufferings of our Saviour by means of the Holy Rosary; let us learn to know him well and to be grateful for all his blessings, so that, on the day of Judgment, he may number us among his children and his friends." ~THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY
~ St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"In Christ we are all things, He is everything to us. If you have wounds to heal, He is a physician; if fever scorches you, He is a fountain. Would you punish evil doing, He is justice. If you need help, He is strength; if you fear death, He is life; if you hunger, He is food." ~ST. AMBROSE
HIS WILL, NOT MY OWN: "Lord, what will Thou have me to do? Here is the true token of a soul absolutely perfect: when one has succeeded in leaving behind his own will to such a degree as no longer to seek, to aim, or to desire to do what he would will, but only what God wills." ~ St Bernard
"The Rosary is a way of contemplating the face of Christ seeing him - we may say - with the eyes of Mary." ~JOHN PAUL II - Sunday, 29 June 2002
"There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we cannot solve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary."
~Sister Lucia, of the seers of Fatima
"The rosary is the book of the blind, where souls see and there enact the greatest drama of love the world has ever known; it is the book of the simple, which initiates them into mysteries and knowledge more satisfying than the education of other men; it is the book of the aged, whose eyes close upon the shadow of this world, and open on the substance of the next. The power of the rosary is beyond description." ~ Archbishop Fulton Sheen
"God speaks in the silence of the heart, and we listen. And then we speak to God from the fullness of our heart, and God listens. And this listening and this speaking is what prayer is meant to be...." - Mother Teresa
"My best piece of spiritual advice to you, no matter who you are, president or plumber, priest or king - PRAY THE ROSARY EVERY DAY! You will be blessed beyond your wildest dreams" -Fr. John Corapi.
"Keep giving Jesus to your people, not by words, but by your example, by your being in love with Jesus, by radiating his holiness and spreading his fragrance of love everywhere you go. Just keep the joy of Jesus as your strength. Be happy and at peace. Accept whatever he gives -- and give whatever he takes with a big smile. You belong to him"
~MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA
"I don't claim anything of the work. It is his work. I am like a little pencil in his hand. That is all. He does the thinking. He does the writing. The pencil has nothing to do with it."
~MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA
"Sometimes I fall, we all fall. Sometimes I sin, we all sin. Sometimes I say and do stupid things, we all do that. Sometimes I have fears, we all have fears. I always Pray The Rosary, we all need to do that."
~Jim Dacey Jr SFO
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Quotes I Have Shared #1
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
As promised I am listing all the quotes I have been sharing these past few weeks. I do save all the quotes I either find online or get from one of the saints books, so every once in a while I pull them all together and list them like this, in case anyone wants to be able to refer back to them. This list includes all the ones I have posted this year so far. I hope they re inspire you. May God richly bless you in your quest to further His Kingdom.
"Where Mary is present, the evil one is absent. One of the unmistakable signs that a person is led by the Spirit of God is the devotion he has to Mary, and his habit of thinking and speaking of her." TREATISE ON TRUE DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN ~St. Louis de Montfort
"Jesus, our Saviour, true God and true man must be the ultimate end of all our other devotions; otherwise they would be false and misleading. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and end of everything. "We labour," says St. Paul, "only to make all men perfect in Jesus Christ." TREATISE ON TRUE DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN
~St. Louis de Montfort
"To Mary alone God gave the keys of the cellars of divine love and the ability to enter the most sublime and secret ways of perfection, and lead others along them. Mary alone gives to the unfortunate children of unfaithful Eve entry into that earthly paradise where they may walk pleasantly with God and be safely hidden from their enemies." TREATISE ON TRUE DEVOTION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN ~St. Louis de Montfort
"To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest human achievement." ~Saint Augustine
"We shall steer safely through every storm so long as our heart is right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God."
~ St. Francis de Sales
"The power of Jesus as seen by the world seems foolish; they see a dead man up on a cross. Yet the true power of that cross is without restraints, the man up on it; is God and He can not be killed, and power He attains cannot be measured." ~Jim Dacey Jr SFO
"Mary's womb became the sacred place where our Blessed Lord's tiny little body was formed. Consider her womb as an altar, a place where God's hand fashioned His Son to become human to be born to die to save us." ~Jim Dacey Jr SFO
"We shall steer safely through every storm so long as our heart is right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God."
~ St. Francis de Sales
"To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest human achievement." ~Saint Augustine
"We are at Jesus' disposal. If he wants you to be sick in bed, if he wants you to proclaim His work in the street, if he wants you to clean the toilets all day, that's all right, everything is all right. We must say, "I belong to you. You can do whatever you like." And this..is our strength, and this is the joy of the Lord." ~ Mother Teresa of Calcutta
"Let us meditate, then, on the life and sufferings of our Saviour by means of the Holy Rosary; let us learn to know him well and to be grateful for all his blessings, so that, on the day of Judgment, he may number us among his children and his friends." ~THE SECRET OF THE ROSARY
~ St. Louis Marie de Montfort
"In Christ we are all things, He is everything to us. If you have wounds to heal, He is a physician; if fever scorches you, He is a fountain. Would you punish evil doing, He is justice. If you need help, He is strength; if you fear death, He is life; if you hunger, He is food." ~ST. AMBROSE
HIS WILL, NOT MY OWN: "Lord, what will Thou have me to do? Here is the true token of a soul absolutely perfect: when one has succeeded in leaving behind his own will to such a degree as no longer to seek, to aim, or to desire to do what he would will, but only what God wills." ~ St Bernard
"The Rosary is a way of contemplating the face of Christ seeing him - we may say - with the eyes of Mary." ~JOHN PAUL II - Sunday, 29 June 2002
"There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we cannot solve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary."
~Sister Lucia, of the seers of Fatima
"The rosary is the book of the blind, where souls see and there enact the greatest drama of love the world has ever known; it is the book of the simple, which initiates them into mysteries and knowledge more satisfying than the education of other men; it is the book of the aged, whose eyes close upon the shadow of this world, and open on the substance of the next. The power of the rosary is beyond description." ~ Archbishop Fulton Sheen
"God speaks in the silence of the heart, and we listen. And then we speak to God from the fullness of our heart, and God listens. And this listening and this speaking is what prayer is meant to be...." - Mother Teresa
"My best piece of spiritual advice to you, no matter who you are, president or plumber, priest or king - PRAY THE ROSARY EVERY DAY! You will be blessed beyond your wildest dreams" -Fr. John Corapi.
"Keep giving Jesus to your people, not by words, but by your example, by your being in love with Jesus, by radiating his holiness and spreading his fragrance of love everywhere you go. Just keep the joy of Jesus as your strength. Be happy and at peace. Accept whatever he gives -- and give whatever he takes with a big smile. You belong to him"
~MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA
"I don't claim anything of the work. It is his work. I am like a little pencil in his hand. That is all. He does the thinking. He does the writing. The pencil has nothing to do with it."
~MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA
"Sometimes I fall, we all fall. Sometimes I sin, we all sin. Sometimes I say and do stupid things, we all do that. Sometimes I have fears, we all have fears. I always Pray The Rosary, we all need to do that."
~Jim Dacey Jr SFO
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Friday, February 18, 2011
Walking With Mary - 1st Station
Beads of Joy 02-18-11
Walking With Mary - 1st Station
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
MARYS TEARS:
"Jesus is Condemned - He's arrested and beaten almost to death, the man of God who gives us mercy, gets none."
It's another wonderful day for all of us to celebrate our love for Jesus, and His most Precious, Beautiful, Blessed Mother Mary. These thoughts and reflections help fill our hearts with even more love for Mother Mary; which of cause in turn deepens our faith and love for our Lord. Mary's whole purpose in her life was to bring Jesus to us. That thought alone; is all the more reason why we should go to her, to be closer with Jesus. It was Mary who at the Wedding in Cana told those at the party in regards to wine, "Do whatever He tells you." We must really be loyal to His word and Her direction to Him.
What I am beginning to further share is something I wrote last year, and a lot of emotion went into it. I thought it be wonderful to share one station at a time. As this Passion continues and we get closer and closer to Calvary the emotion becomes obvious and moving. Back when I originally wrote this and shared it, the responses were overwhelming, in a most blessed glorious way. I pray that we can all experience this sorrow together; as we get closer to the end, we know that Jesus defeats death. But the entire experience allows us to draw closer to our Lord while being side by side with Mother Mary.
Let us reflect upon the first station.
1st Station - Jesus is Condemned to
Think about this: Jesus has already been scourged at the pillar and crowned with thorns even before He was brought before Pilate. There was no mercy for Him as He was beaten almost to death.
Mother Mary: How sad and distraught our Blessed Mother must have felt, here her Son was arrested in the middle of the night; beaten and pretty much almost killed by those who say they love God. The scribes and the Pharisees knew who Jesus was, but there selfishness lead them to kill the very man who came from the very God they supposedly worshiped. How much sorrow must have filled your heart Mary. I would image that you seen Jesus at the Pillar, holding on for dear life, as the guards continually, constantly beat your Son. The blood, His precious blood was everywhere. It was a literal blood bath. Many must have wondered how ever could anyone survive this alone. But we know you knew in your heart that you said yes to God and that you knew Jesus also had to say yes. Please allow me on my knees to help you clean up the blood with you. His blood has been shed for me, I do not deserve such love from anybody. Thank You Mary and Praise You Jesus.
-Our Father... -Hail Mary... -Glory Be...
Today let us pray this prayer:
Our dear Mother Mary, precious beloved Mother of my Lord. I ask that you continue helping and guiding me ever so much closer to your Son. I am devoted to you my dear Mother, in that when I come to you, I know you will lead me to your Son, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I shall never back off or move away from the depths of love that I feel for Him and you. Your love my Mother is pure and it is so sad how so many people don't notice your allegiance and connection to our Savior. Your my Blessed Mother Mary are the perfect Mother. Your example, your love, your strength and your commitment to stand strong by our Lord, is an inspiration to many. And I ask Mother Mary that you help me continue to abandon in my life the distractions, both material and emotional and basically anything that keeps me away from your Son in anyway. Thank you my Mother.
May Almighty God have mercy on me a sinner, and may He continue to love me and help direct me to Our Lady and His Son. We ask this through Christ our Lord.. AMEN.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
"Mary's Way of The Cross" By me April 2010
http://www.facebook.com/RosaryManJim?success=1#!/note.php?note_id=377083893861
I highly recommend you read it in it's entirety as we move forward with reflections and prayers. I ask if you can, please share your thoughts on "Mary's Way of The Cross" with all of us.
Walking With Mary - 1st Station
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
MARYS TEARS:
"Jesus is Condemned - He's arrested and beaten almost to death, the man of God who gives us mercy, gets none."
It's another wonderful day for all of us to celebrate our love for Jesus, and His most Precious, Beautiful, Blessed Mother Mary. These thoughts and reflections help fill our hearts with even more love for Mother Mary; which of cause in turn deepens our faith and love for our Lord. Mary's whole purpose in her life was to bring Jesus to us. That thought alone; is all the more reason why we should go to her, to be closer with Jesus. It was Mary who at the Wedding in Cana told those at the party in regards to wine, "Do whatever He tells you." We must really be loyal to His word and Her direction to Him.
What I am beginning to further share is something I wrote last year, and a lot of emotion went into it. I thought it be wonderful to share one station at a time. As this Passion continues and we get closer and closer to Calvary the emotion becomes obvious and moving. Back when I originally wrote this and shared it, the responses were overwhelming, in a most blessed glorious way. I pray that we can all experience this sorrow together; as we get closer to the end, we know that Jesus defeats death. But the entire experience allows us to draw closer to our Lord while being side by side with Mother Mary.
Let us reflect upon the first station.
1st Station - Jesus is Condemned to
Think about this: Jesus has already been scourged at the pillar and crowned with thorns even before He was brought before Pilate. There was no mercy for Him as He was beaten almost to death.
Mother Mary: How sad and distraught our Blessed Mother must have felt, here her Son was arrested in the middle of the night; beaten and pretty much almost killed by those who say they love God. The scribes and the Pharisees knew who Jesus was, but there selfishness lead them to kill the very man who came from the very God they supposedly worshiped. How much sorrow must have filled your heart Mary. I would image that you seen Jesus at the Pillar, holding on for dear life, as the guards continually, constantly beat your Son. The blood, His precious blood was everywhere. It was a literal blood bath. Many must have wondered how ever could anyone survive this alone. But we know you knew in your heart that you said yes to God and that you knew Jesus also had to say yes. Please allow me on my knees to help you clean up the blood with you. His blood has been shed for me, I do not deserve such love from anybody. Thank You Mary and Praise You Jesus.
-Our Father... -Hail Mary... -Glory Be...
Today let us pray this prayer:
Our dear Mother Mary, precious beloved Mother of my Lord. I ask that you continue helping and guiding me ever so much closer to your Son. I am devoted to you my dear Mother, in that when I come to you, I know you will lead me to your Son, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I shall never back off or move away from the depths of love that I feel for Him and you. Your love my Mother is pure and it is so sad how so many people don't notice your allegiance and connection to our Savior. Your my Blessed Mother Mary are the perfect Mother. Your example, your love, your strength and your commitment to stand strong by our Lord, is an inspiration to many. And I ask Mother Mary that you help me continue to abandon in my life the distractions, both material and emotional and basically anything that keeps me away from your Son in anyway. Thank you my Mother.
May Almighty God have mercy on me a sinner, and may He continue to love me and help direct me to Our Lady and His Son. We ask this through Christ our Lord.. AMEN.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
"Mary's Way of The Cross" By me April 2010
http://www.facebook.com/RosaryManJim?success=1#!/note.php?note_id=377083893861
I highly recommend you read it in it's entirety as we move forward with reflections and prayers. I ask if you can, please share your thoughts on "Mary's Way of The Cross" with all of us.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Mother Mary - Life Lessons
Beads of Joy 02-17-11
Mother Mary - Life Lessons
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I really enjoy having our Blessed Mother on my heart and life everyday. She is my most favorite numero uno woman of my life. No one will ever take her place as numero uno in my life. I really look forward to the day I can meet her. She has been such an inspiration and motivation throughout my life since I got to know her Son back in 1983. Today and for a while, on and off I am going to do my best, to reflect on different aspects of Mary for us to consider. Reflections will include her daily life, the rich faith she had, the in the moment of living through the mysteries with her Son, Mary's travels; and so much more. Almighty God chose Mary, and we know God don't randomly just do things, He has a will and a plan. Mary's life was one of poverty in this world, her wealth was in her faith and it was because of that; that she had tremendous faith and trust in God, His word and His purpose that she submitted to.
What did Mother Mary do that was so special for us to reflect upon? Her greatest act of love was simply saying "Let it be done..." Other then her curiosity of how in world this could happened because of her virginity, Mary never again asked, or questioned or debated about what was ahead. She simply obeyed and trusted, even in the scariest of times as her Son was being killed. That is the beauty of our Blessed Mother, her unwavering faith. She didn't have an easy life, and I really believe that is what helped deepen her faith. Many people will agree that it seems to be, that the people closest to poverty, tend to be closest to our Lord. Why is that? I will say I know what it's like to have and to have not, in the past 24 years of marriage we have been on both ends of the spectrum. Poverty is a very powerful word, some immediately interpret that as "poor people." Others might think "oh they live in the slums". No matter what anybody thinks, people fall into poverty at all different levels in society. And depending on how you handle it, will determine what gifts you will receive while experiencing it. Yes I said gifts. To experience poverty is a blessing, beyond explanation. It may not make sense to some of you, but I'd rather be poor and on my knees before my Lord at the altar; than wealthy and on some tennis court.
Seriously look at Mary's life. She didn't live in a palace, she was certainly not wealthy. Her life was one of hard work and lots of prayer. And yet God chose Mary above all others to bring His only begotten Son into the world to save the world. Why? I guess we will never really know God's direct answer, but looking at all things and considering what has been said already; the most precious souls seem to be found in the families of those struggling. God knew Mary's heart, just like He knows all our hearts. He knows when we are for real, and He knows when we are working on our own ego. We may fool others, but we can't fool God. It's said that Mary was only 15 when the Angel Gabriel approached her, that must have been very scary. Scripture reveals that she was disturbed by the words of Gabriel, but she understood after a short explanation, and she took her place as Handmaid. Praise Jesus for Mary's unceasing faith.
My Love - My Mother
Mary my mother I love you
You are my mother and queen,
You have trusted in God so true
And because of you Jesus is seen.
He is your Son and our Lord
For with you we now have the King,
He is true Son of God and man
Mother Mary thank you for believing.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Luminous Mysteries
1. Baptism of Jesus
2. Wedding at Cana
3. Proclamation of the Kingdom
4. The Transfiguration
5. Institution of the Holy Eucharist
Mother Mary - Life Lessons
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
I really enjoy having our Blessed Mother on my heart and life everyday. She is my most favorite numero uno woman of my life. No one will ever take her place as numero uno in my life. I really look forward to the day I can meet her. She has been such an inspiration and motivation throughout my life since I got to know her Son back in 1983. Today and for a while, on and off I am going to do my best, to reflect on different aspects of Mary for us to consider. Reflections will include her daily life, the rich faith she had, the in the moment of living through the mysteries with her Son, Mary's travels; and so much more. Almighty God chose Mary, and we know God don't randomly just do things, He has a will and a plan. Mary's life was one of poverty in this world, her wealth was in her faith and it was because of that; that she had tremendous faith and trust in God, His word and His purpose that she submitted to.
What did Mother Mary do that was so special for us to reflect upon? Her greatest act of love was simply saying "Let it be done..." Other then her curiosity of how in world this could happened because of her virginity, Mary never again asked, or questioned or debated about what was ahead. She simply obeyed and trusted, even in the scariest of times as her Son was being killed. That is the beauty of our Blessed Mother, her unwavering faith. She didn't have an easy life, and I really believe that is what helped deepen her faith. Many people will agree that it seems to be, that the people closest to poverty, tend to be closest to our Lord. Why is that? I will say I know what it's like to have and to have not, in the past 24 years of marriage we have been on both ends of the spectrum. Poverty is a very powerful word, some immediately interpret that as "poor people." Others might think "oh they live in the slums". No matter what anybody thinks, people fall into poverty at all different levels in society. And depending on how you handle it, will determine what gifts you will receive while experiencing it. Yes I said gifts. To experience poverty is a blessing, beyond explanation. It may not make sense to some of you, but I'd rather be poor and on my knees before my Lord at the altar; than wealthy and on some tennis court.
Seriously look at Mary's life. She didn't live in a palace, she was certainly not wealthy. Her life was one of hard work and lots of prayer. And yet God chose Mary above all others to bring His only begotten Son into the world to save the world. Why? I guess we will never really know God's direct answer, but looking at all things and considering what has been said already; the most precious souls seem to be found in the families of those struggling. God knew Mary's heart, just like He knows all our hearts. He knows when we are for real, and He knows when we are working on our own ego. We may fool others, but we can't fool God. It's said that Mary was only 15 when the Angel Gabriel approached her, that must have been very scary. Scripture reveals that she was disturbed by the words of Gabriel, but she understood after a short explanation, and she took her place as Handmaid. Praise Jesus for Mary's unceasing faith.
My Love - My Mother
Mary my mother I love you
You are my mother and queen,
You have trusted in God so true
And because of you Jesus is seen.
He is your Son and our Lord
For with you we now have the King,
He is true Son of God and man
Mother Mary thank you for believing.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Luminous Mysteries
1. Baptism of Jesus
2. Wedding at Cana
3. Proclamation of the Kingdom
4. The Transfiguration
5. Institution of the Holy Eucharist
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Minimize Your Possessions
Beads of Joy 02-16-11
Minimize Your Possessions
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Minimize Your Possessions
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
This topic might be hard for many to understand, but I have written about these things before. This morning before my prayer time I had laid out the topic and scripture. Within moments of beginning to write, I was overcome by feelings and thoughts of this topic and the urgency we have to take to prepare our lives for Him. Let us minimize all we possess in possessions and maximize all we need to possess in our hearts and Spirit. I hope that made sense, Jesus must consume us and we must allow Him to. Way too many people, possess and own way too much stuff, literally piles of junk; and all that stuff, distracts and interferes with our time and ability to worship our Lord, and we worry about that stuff and some pay to store that stuff. The world is going through some scary changes right now, and this wave of change and disruption may come where we live. It's time to batten down the hatches and secure the most important and most critical of information for us to have to study and read, to meditate and learn from. All of the other things are and will be pointless. Even if the wave of changes don't directly affect us now, in the long run they might. The urgency here is in our focused time and energy to be all about Jesus. Jesus must absolutely be all that matters. Prayer time, adoration time, time in His word (read your bible everyday), fellowship, sharing Him with others. Here is a scripture that is bouncing around in my head.
"When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Luke 18:22
This verse says it all, we need to really think about these words of wisdom spoken by our Lord, me, I prefer giving things away. Can we really know how all the distractions of all our things, many times prevents us, from following after Jesus? Think of it this way: If we were asked to put all of our possessions, collections, collectibles which are the things we personally possess and value and label as our own; what size trailer or van or how many boxes would you need? I personally know many who could fill a moving van. Please note that I'm not talking about your furniture or your household items, only the items you say are personal things that are yours. How about setting out a goal, of minimal attachment to virtually nothing (yes, nothing), except: Your Rosary, Bible, Commentary, couple devotional books, laptop (for fellowship), and that's it, obvious some clothes, etc. My goal is this: Keep and possess only what I can carry all at one, at the same time. All else you either sell and donate your proceeds to those struggling; or you can really be kind and just give them away all those possessions to those you know who like that, I prefer giving it away. Spread that Joy of giving to family, friends and neighbors. I have done this, I really do practice what I suggest. And this needs to be done periodically, either every year, or every other month. I am about due for another clearing. We need the cleaning, my method of giving it away is the most fun.
We are all in different situations and we all have different needs, I am well aware of all that. I don't seek any gain from this, I only echo the words of our Savior and pray that so many prioritize Him. Nothing else (possessions) should matter at all only Him, they only become distractions. Now take a moment and look at scripture again, these are Jesus' words, "Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it." Matthew 10:38-39. Now of cause figuratively speaking, if we were to take up our cross and follow Him, how much more could we carry? If we are lucky, maybe another two or three things, at most. And look at the end of that verse, "whoever loses their life for my sake will find it." So whatever identity we have with all these things, must be lost; in order for us to find our life in Jesus, in carrying our cross following after Him.
We really need to place all our trust and all of our attention to our Lord, as we begin to do all these things. It is completely possible to do this. I have shared many many times about how I give things away, and what I did and how I did it. We don't want to over burden others with our stuff, so spreading it out is what I found worked best; then you are able to bring Joy to many. Try to spend some serious time doing this, even if it took a couple weeks or months. De-clutter and deprogram yourself from all these needless, pointless possessions. At judgment day, God will not care about your baseball card collection. And no, even if you are a clothes horse, and you have the latest styles; or a closest full of shoes and a pair of shoes for everyday of the year. No extra credit will be given, but if in our unselfishness we share with others and we place no other gods before Him, then great will be our treasure be in Heaven. We must remember it's not what we possess that matters, it's what give that matters.
Consider This: This is like a "Vow of Poverty" obviously not literally, but consider it to be to it as close as you can live that vow. Because the vow of poverty manifests itself three ways:
1. Complete reliance on God. (deepening your faith)
2. Simplicity of Life. (requiring less to be happy)
3. Solidarity with The Poor. (you understand)
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Do We Really Trust In Him?
Beads of Joy 02-15-11
Do We Really Trust In Him?
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
The title says it all, so do we? In today's gospel it appears that the disciples have forgotten about how the Lord shall provide for them; and has always provided for them. How is it that those closest to our Lord were unable to know and believe that He would provide for them? The disciples also confused real bread with the bread of life, that our Lord gives us everyday. But you know, I guess when you are closest to the anxiety of stressful times; you can't so easily see that which maybe obvious, at least compared to someone from the outside looking in. It works both ways, you know. Anxiety can create an imbalance in your life, and I can really relate to that. If you are going through challenges at a particular moment; anyone looking in usually can't really relate fully to the impact of what you are going through. And I think the best way to explain it is like this; you know how you see a reporter out in a storm explaining it, telling you about the fierce winds and heavy stinging hard rain drops. And what is the typical reaction, "Wow, that looks horrible, it is really bad out." But honestly how could ever know the depths of the experience what they are, if we never got to actually experience it.
How do we deal with anxiety? If we are experiencing it, how do we handle it? And what if a family member or a friend is suffering in some way, and the burden on their heart is heavy, what can we do? I guess I don't have to say all that much, many people know what my family is going through. Well that is a good starting point on this topic today. See sometimes a family carrying multiple crosses really needs love, compassion and general kindness. We usually don't seek a pity party, or "Oh I feel so bad for you guys." Honestly that don't help at all when you are under the weight of fifty bazillions tons of stress hour after hour. Yes. You read that right, and that's on a good day. Today the gospel reflection is found in Mark 8:14-21 (True Bread). Our Lord's concerns were for that of the soul, not of the body; the disciples just didn't understand.
Do we really try our best to pray with the utmost confidence when we are faced with trials and anxiety that we just don't understand sometimes? You know sometimes we are put in a situation for a reason, and the situation may just be horrible, or devastating. But there's always a reason for everything that happens to us, God turns the bad into good. He himself does not minister the bad our way, He only transforms it into a good purpose and outcome. And unfortunately so many people just can't see that. The longer my own spirit has been in love with my Lord, and that I can say I fully accept any and all outcomes, took some time. But the misfortune of one, not only helps to awaken the soul of that person, but think of all the souls around that person. Many people have been spiritually healed by someone elses devastating accident that they survived, and even died in. Others have been saved sitting side by side, day after day with a loved one suffering with cancer, or any other disease.
Today let's consider a challenge for our own self in dealing with challenges, issues, anxiety, or whatever. Let us remember all of what Jesus has done for us and has given us. He died for us and Defeated Death for us. He remains in us through the power of the Holy Spirit. He unites with us, every single time we go to Mass and receive Him in the Holy Eucharist. He forgives us every single time we go to Confession. Let us think, He is present with us throughout our day and especially throughout our struggles. Keep your channel tuned to "Jesus" at all times, in all places and in all faces. Jesus is truly ever present with us everyday.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
Do We Really Trust In Him?
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
The title says it all, so do we? In today's gospel it appears that the disciples have forgotten about how the Lord shall provide for them; and has always provided for them. How is it that those closest to our Lord were unable to know and believe that He would provide for them? The disciples also confused real bread with the bread of life, that our Lord gives us everyday. But you know, I guess when you are closest to the anxiety of stressful times; you can't so easily see that which maybe obvious, at least compared to someone from the outside looking in. It works both ways, you know. Anxiety can create an imbalance in your life, and I can really relate to that. If you are going through challenges at a particular moment; anyone looking in usually can't really relate fully to the impact of what you are going through. And I think the best way to explain it is like this; you know how you see a reporter out in a storm explaining it, telling you about the fierce winds and heavy stinging hard rain drops. And what is the typical reaction, "Wow, that looks horrible, it is really bad out." But honestly how could ever know the depths of the experience what they are, if we never got to actually experience it.
How do we deal with anxiety? If we are experiencing it, how do we handle it? And what if a family member or a friend is suffering in some way, and the burden on their heart is heavy, what can we do? I guess I don't have to say all that much, many people know what my family is going through. Well that is a good starting point on this topic today. See sometimes a family carrying multiple crosses really needs love, compassion and general kindness. We usually don't seek a pity party, or "Oh I feel so bad for you guys." Honestly that don't help at all when you are under the weight of fifty bazillions tons of stress hour after hour. Yes. You read that right, and that's on a good day. Today the gospel reflection is found in Mark 8:14-21 (True Bread). Our Lord's concerns were for that of the soul, not of the body; the disciples just didn't understand.
Do we really try our best to pray with the utmost confidence when we are faced with trials and anxiety that we just don't understand sometimes? You know sometimes we are put in a situation for a reason, and the situation may just be horrible, or devastating. But there's always a reason for everything that happens to us, God turns the bad into good. He himself does not minister the bad our way, He only transforms it into a good purpose and outcome. And unfortunately so many people just can't see that. The longer my own spirit has been in love with my Lord, and that I can say I fully accept any and all outcomes, took some time. But the misfortune of one, not only helps to awaken the soul of that person, but think of all the souls around that person. Many people have been spiritually healed by someone elses devastating accident that they survived, and even died in. Others have been saved sitting side by side, day after day with a loved one suffering with cancer, or any other disease.
Today let's consider a challenge for our own self in dealing with challenges, issues, anxiety, or whatever. Let us remember all of what Jesus has done for us and has given us. He died for us and Defeated Death for us. He remains in us through the power of the Holy Spirit. He unites with us, every single time we go to Mass and receive Him in the Holy Eucharist. He forgives us every single time we go to Confession. Let us think, He is present with us throughout our day and especially throughout our struggles. Keep your channel tuned to "Jesus" at all times, in all places and in all faces. Jesus is truly ever present with us everyday.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day Jesus
Beads of Joy 02-14-11
Happy Valentine's Day Jesus
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Happy Valentine's Day Jesus
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Jimmy Loves Chrissy
Today is the day we celebrate "LOVE", the love we give, the love we share, the love we have. How do you say "I love you" to a spouse, a boyfriend or a girlfriend, or even a family member, basically anyone we love? Obviously the way you say I love you to your spouse will be very different, then the way we say it to a neighbor or your aunt. And now let's take this one step further and much more seriously into our spiritual life: How do you tell and show Jesus how much we love Him? OK, now that I got your undivided attention, that is my main focus here in today's blog: Our love for Jesus and how we might show Him how much we love Him. You do realize just the thought of returning love to someone who died for us, saved us, and who has loved us, even before we were born, will be a challenge. But thank God for His word. Let me share just a couple scriptures that really explain this,
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31
"I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." John 15:11-13
"But whoever loves God is known by God." 1 Corinthians 8:3
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God."
1 John 4:7
I know many of you are well versed with scripture, and I could go on and on with scripture that shares about love, especially love for our Lord and for others. So what can we do to express our love for Jesus? How can we, mere human beings of this world ever express "love" for God? For He has everything and He knows everything and He is everywhere. What's left for me to give Him? I think that last sentence just sent you down the path to figure these questions out. What is the one thing that God has given us, that we have full control of in our life? Yes, there is something, we can freely determine the choice of, and that is our free will. Do we freely love Him, and follow after Him? Or do we deny Him and want nothing to do with Him? Critically important questions that ultimately answer the question: How can I show God that I love Him? It is through God's very example of love for us, that we in turn can love Him. And we can find that in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Now do you see where I am going with all this? Here's another, "This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him." 1 John 4:9
There is no question that we are all loved by God. He loved us before we were born. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you," Jeremiah 1:5. We need to fully surrender our lives over to our Lord, loving him with everything we have inside ourselves. He must be the first and foremost one who we live for, and will be willingly die for. For that is love for Jesus. Don't hide under the covers, or behind the door, when you hear someone speak His name, or about you because you spoke His name. Your boldness shows your love. For in real love, there is no fear. Here is a the perfect scripture saying this: "This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us." 1 John 4:17-19. And here are some things, some of the saints have said:
"What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy. It has eyes to see misery and want. It has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men. That is what love looks like." ~St. Augustine of Hippo
"There is no place for selfishness—and no place for fear! Do not be afraid, then, when love makes demands. Do not be afraid when love requires sacrifice." ~Pope John Paul II
Love is a topic that we can talk about for days, weeks, even years. For centuries society and God have been talking about love. So on this very day, we celebrate love; a simple hug, a warm embrace, a care and concern for another we don't even know. Let us for today, try to love the unlovable. I won't define who that may be. We all have have these people in our lives, and for all we know, we may be that to others in their lives. I hope not, and honestly think not, but who knows. So go the extra mile for one another; buy them a coffee, hold open the door for them, let them in the elevator, stop saying mean things to them today. Even share your Twinkies, and search for that smile inside them. You will be sharing the very love Jesus has for you with them. Once the Holy Spirit finds inside us finds another person with the same Holy Spirit, the two are filled with Joy.
Happy Valentine's Day everybody.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation2. The Visitation3. The Birth of Jesus4. The Presentation in The Temple5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Sunday, February 13, 2011
His Standards Are So High
Beads of Joy 02-13-11
His Standards Are So High
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Powerful and to the point, that's how I describe today's gospel. Jesus don't pull no punches and He will not hide the truth, so He don't offend someone. Jesus is cool, He isn't politically correct. Being politically correct for the most part always puts our morals on the back shelf. We need to rather be "Spiritually Correct" or if you will, "Jesus Correct". That's all that matters, because when we are all standing in judgment for our actions, our words, and our philosophy; God alone will tell us what we have earned for all eternity. No politician will step in for you or me, and give some crazy off the wall explanation why killing an unborn baby is just fine. Nobody stands with you, except of cause our Lady. See if we are really in tune with our spiritual life and we are in relationship with our Lord Jesus and His Mother, many of these issues will never be issues. We won't allow ourselves to be misled. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 5:17-37 (Fulfillment of The Law / Teachings). Why is it that so many people think "laws" or "rules" are so negative? Isn't the laws and the rules that keep things orderly so that everyone is kept safe physically and spiritually and morally in our world. Check this out. In Psalm 119 there is much wisdom. Psalm 119 has 176 verses. Scan through it, there is so much wisdom shared here.
Psalm 119
1 Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,
who walk according to the law of the LORD.
2 Blessed are those who keep his statutes
and seek him with all their heart—
3 they do no wrong
but follow his ways.
4 You have laid down precepts
that are to be fully obeyed.
9 How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
12 Praise be to you, LORD;
teach me your decrees.
We must remember who we are dealing with when it comes to sin. Satan has every intention and every intent to mislead us and send us straight to hell with him. Sin don't just arrive at the edge of our thoughts and then go full steam into our lives; rather we allow the thoughts in, and then little by little we justify our actions. There are so many things in society that allow things to happen. We can remember when no cursing was allowed on tv, period. Well then they come up with a list and all the others words were ok, then they allowed only certain networks to say them, then they started allowing certain words from that list. Well now they even allow anything after a certain hour on some networks. You see how little by little the sin is ok. This is the same way sin works in our lives, little by little we allow it and fluff it off.
As many of you know, "Fireproof" is one of my favorite movies. If you get a chance.. rent it, or buy it. You will be very happy you did, there are many very wonderful, very Godly messages throughout the entire movie. Today I'd like to share part of a conversation Caleb and his dad had. Interesting but very relevant to today's gospel. Complete reality check, and if you hear this script in the show, you'd understand what I'm saying.
FIREPROOF (excerpt of script)
Caleb
Why do l need his salvation?
What, am l gonna be thrown into hell?
For what? Because l got divorced?
Caleb's Dad
No. Because you violated his standards.
Caleb
What? Thou shall not kill?
Dad, l help people. l am a good person.
Caleb's Dad
According to you. But God doesn't judge by your standards.
-He uses his.
Caleb
-And what are his?
Caleb's Dad
Well, truth.
Caleb
-Okay.
Caleb's Dad
-Love.
Caleb
-l'm honest.
Caleb's Dad
-Faithfulness.
Caleb
l care about people. l am those things.
Caleb's Dad
Sometimes.
But have you loved God, the one who gave you life?
His standards are so high, he considers hatred to be murder...
...and lust to be adultery.
Caleb
Dad, what about all the good l've done?
Caleb's Dad
Son, saving someone from a fire does not make you right with God.
You've broken his commandments.
And one day, you'll answer to him for that.
Pretty powerful exchange isn't it? Get the movie, if you are like me, you will watch it again and again.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
His Standards Are So High
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Powerful and to the point, that's how I describe today's gospel. Jesus don't pull no punches and He will not hide the truth, so He don't offend someone. Jesus is cool, He isn't politically correct. Being politically correct for the most part always puts our morals on the back shelf. We need to rather be "Spiritually Correct" or if you will, "Jesus Correct". That's all that matters, because when we are all standing in judgment for our actions, our words, and our philosophy; God alone will tell us what we have earned for all eternity. No politician will step in for you or me, and give some crazy off the wall explanation why killing an unborn baby is just fine. Nobody stands with you, except of cause our Lady. See if we are really in tune with our spiritual life and we are in relationship with our Lord Jesus and His Mother, many of these issues will never be issues. We won't allow ourselves to be misled. Today we are reflecting on Matthew 5:17-37 (Fulfillment of The Law / Teachings). Why is it that so many people think "laws" or "rules" are so negative? Isn't the laws and the rules that keep things orderly so that everyone is kept safe physically and spiritually and morally in our world. Check this out. In Psalm 119 there is much wisdom. Psalm 119 has 176 verses. Scan through it, there is so much wisdom shared here.
Psalm 119
1 Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,
who walk according to the law of the LORD.
2 Blessed are those who keep his statutes
and seek him with all their heart—
3 they do no wrong
but follow his ways.
4 You have laid down precepts
that are to be fully obeyed.
9 How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
12 Praise be to you, LORD;
teach me your decrees.
We must remember who we are dealing with when it comes to sin. Satan has every intention and every intent to mislead us and send us straight to hell with him. Sin don't just arrive at the edge of our thoughts and then go full steam into our lives; rather we allow the thoughts in, and then little by little we justify our actions. There are so many things in society that allow things to happen. We can remember when no cursing was allowed on tv, period. Well then they come up with a list and all the others words were ok, then they allowed only certain networks to say them, then they started allowing certain words from that list. Well now they even allow anything after a certain hour on some networks. You see how little by little the sin is ok. This is the same way sin works in our lives, little by little we allow it and fluff it off.
As many of you know, "Fireproof" is one of my favorite movies. If you get a chance.. rent it, or buy it. You will be very happy you did, there are many very wonderful, very Godly messages throughout the entire movie. Today I'd like to share part of a conversation Caleb and his dad had. Interesting but very relevant to today's gospel. Complete reality check, and if you hear this script in the show, you'd understand what I'm saying.
FIREPROOF (excerpt of script)
Caleb
Why do l need his salvation?
What, am l gonna be thrown into hell?
For what? Because l got divorced?
Caleb's Dad
No. Because you violated his standards.
Caleb
What? Thou shall not kill?
Dad, l help people. l am a good person.
Caleb's Dad
According to you. But God doesn't judge by your standards.
-He uses his.
Caleb
-And what are his?
Caleb's Dad
Well, truth.
Caleb
-Okay.
Caleb's Dad
-Love.
Caleb
-l'm honest.
Caleb's Dad
-Faithfulness.
Caleb
l care about people. l am those things.
Caleb's Dad
Sometimes.
But have you loved God, the one who gave you life?
His standards are so high, he considers hatred to be murder...
...and lust to be adultery.
Caleb
Dad, what about all the good l've done?
Caleb's Dad
Son, saving someone from a fire does not make you right with God.
You've broken his commandments.
And one day, you'll answer to him for that.
Pretty powerful exchange isn't it? Get the movie, if you are like me, you will watch it again and again.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Glorious Mysteries
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of The Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption
5. The Coronation
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Hunger or Trust - Which One??
Beads of Joy 02-12-11
Hunger or Trust - Which One??
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Incredible story and witness here. What does Jesus basically ask?, "What do you have?" and then what does He do? He gives thanks to God above, and then He fulfills their needs, and with left overs when He is done. In other words, the blessings God gives us when we are in need, far exceed what we need. The blessings come to us in an abundance beyond our cries for help. Absolutely incredible story of God's power indeed, and how he can make what little we have do something so great that it can touch thousands. In this miracle, food was the driving force behind the desire to have the want and need fulfilled. When food or an addiction to something comes into play; our physical and emotional self drive sometimes takes over. We don't always think these things out, we tend to be in a scramble worrying and trying to meet our needs. So when we are hungry or in need of something right now... How do we handle that? Do we lose trust in our Lord? Do our physical needs, and desires surpass our spiritual ones? Today we are pondering and reflecting upon Mark 8:1-10 (Jesus Feeds the Four Thousand). Honestly think about this, is there really anything here on earth that absolutely satisfies our inner hunger, not our stomachs hunger; but rather the inner hunger we have for God.
See there is the place inside of all of us, it is a driving force that is seeking to be fulfilled. Has that place been saved, protected and reserved for Jesus only? Or do we allow the things of this world to fill it? There is so much insight into this scripture today, many things to think about. God alone can and will sustain our needs, we really need to fully trust in Him and know that He will, by all means look after us. I believe the trust we have in Him, is more so tested here than our desire for food or anything for that matter. And every Sunday, or every day if you can; you can receive Jesus in a way that will satisfy you far beyond anything this world can ever provide. Receiving Jesus in the Holy Eucharist is far beyond simple fulfillment of hunger pangs. Jesus fills us with something that will not only sustain our life and make our lives everlasting; but He fills us with something (His love) that we can share with everyone, over and over again.
When you are in need, and you do approach Jesus, what do you expect to get from Him ? Our needs are very important to Him, and He does meet them; obviously not always when we demand them. He knows our needs more than we do, and He knows when we really need them. Sometimes hunger pangs and doing without are what we need more than having that need fulfilled. I know that doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but I can relate to that very much. I have shared moments in our lives when we were left a drift and barely were able to put food on our table. We cried and searched and kept looking for help. God provided for us, even in our fear and worries, He did provide, because He knew our needs. There are hundreds of ways to make macaroni and cheese for dinner several days in a row; and peanut butter with a spoon, can and does sustain life for several days.
It's totally remarkable, yet not surprising on the timing of today's blog. See I am a vegetarian, and I fall to the wayside with that lifestyle when I am under tremendous stress. I only do that because my focus on my own health is forgotten by me, while I am trying to help and make sure everyone else is doing well. I know that sounds a bit backwards, because if I am not in good health, how can I take care of anyone else? I know that, but sometimes it just takes that one moment, that one big insight of wisdom and you wake up thinking, "Oh no Lord what will we do?". Well that's what happened to me. I woke up thinking, "Oh no Lord what will I do?" about taking care of myself, so I can continue taking care of my family? Everyone don't have to agree to the Vegetarian way, like I do. The main focus here is trusting in God, and in your quest of seeking Him out; and so you can take care of yourself along the way. God is so good, beyond anything we have ever thought possible.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Hunger or Trust - Which One??
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
Incredible story and witness here. What does Jesus basically ask?, "What do you have?" and then what does He do? He gives thanks to God above, and then He fulfills their needs, and with left overs when He is done. In other words, the blessings God gives us when we are in need, far exceed what we need. The blessings come to us in an abundance beyond our cries for help. Absolutely incredible story of God's power indeed, and how he can make what little we have do something so great that it can touch thousands. In this miracle, food was the driving force behind the desire to have the want and need fulfilled. When food or an addiction to something comes into play; our physical and emotional self drive sometimes takes over. We don't always think these things out, we tend to be in a scramble worrying and trying to meet our needs. So when we are hungry or in need of something right now... How do we handle that? Do we lose trust in our Lord? Do our physical needs, and desires surpass our spiritual ones? Today we are pondering and reflecting upon Mark 8:1-10 (Jesus Feeds the Four Thousand). Honestly think about this, is there really anything here on earth that absolutely satisfies our inner hunger, not our stomachs hunger; but rather the inner hunger we have for God.
See there is the place inside of all of us, it is a driving force that is seeking to be fulfilled. Has that place been saved, protected and reserved for Jesus only? Or do we allow the things of this world to fill it? There is so much insight into this scripture today, many things to think about. God alone can and will sustain our needs, we really need to fully trust in Him and know that He will, by all means look after us. I believe the trust we have in Him, is more so tested here than our desire for food or anything for that matter. And every Sunday, or every day if you can; you can receive Jesus in a way that will satisfy you far beyond anything this world can ever provide. Receiving Jesus in the Holy Eucharist is far beyond simple fulfillment of hunger pangs. Jesus fills us with something that will not only sustain our life and make our lives everlasting; but He fills us with something (His love) that we can share with everyone, over and over again.
When you are in need, and you do approach Jesus, what do you expect to get from Him ? Our needs are very important to Him, and He does meet them; obviously not always when we demand them. He knows our needs more than we do, and He knows when we really need them. Sometimes hunger pangs and doing without are what we need more than having that need fulfilled. I know that doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but I can relate to that very much. I have shared moments in our lives when we were left a drift and barely were able to put food on our table. We cried and searched and kept looking for help. God provided for us, even in our fear and worries, He did provide, because He knew our needs. There are hundreds of ways to make macaroni and cheese for dinner several days in a row; and peanut butter with a spoon, can and does sustain life for several days.
It's totally remarkable, yet not surprising on the timing of today's blog. See I am a vegetarian, and I fall to the wayside with that lifestyle when I am under tremendous stress. I only do that because my focus on my own health is forgotten by me, while I am trying to help and make sure everyone else is doing well. I know that sounds a bit backwards, because if I am not in good health, how can I take care of anyone else? I know that, but sometimes it just takes that one moment, that one big insight of wisdom and you wake up thinking, "Oh no Lord what will we do?". Well that's what happened to me. I woke up thinking, "Oh no Lord what will I do?" about taking care of myself, so I can continue taking care of my family? Everyone don't have to agree to the Vegetarian way, like I do. The main focus here is trusting in God, and in your quest of seeking Him out; and so you can take care of yourself along the way. God is so good, beyond anything we have ever thought possible.
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Birth of Jesus
4. The Presentation in The Temple
5. Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Friday, February 11, 2011
Holy Eucharist - With Jesus
Beads of Joy 02-11-11
Holy Eucharist - With Jesus
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
DECADE OF THOUGHT: "Institution of the Eucharist - Do you have a deep sincere love for the Mass, and being with our Lord ?"
What an absolutely Joy today,will be to share the Joy of the Mass. This mystery is drenched in so much love and Joy that I will only be able to merely scratch the surface. I pray that you to have that awesome, excited, bubbly feeling inside your heart and soul; at the very thought of being able to attend Mass and be with Jesus. I still do, even after 28 years of Jesus in my life. There is something extremely special, in a very personal way when we attend Mass; and that is Jesus' presence. How many people really know the "Order of the Mass", you know the prayers we pray out-loud, and the prayers the priests say on the altar? I am so in love with the entire Mass as one big prayer that it truly sets my heart and soul on fire; to hear it, to participate in it and to feel the people around me being part of it. I simply very honestly just outright love Mass. In the past I was a daily Mass goer, and I did that for many years. Actually it has been a part of my life on two separate occasions. One, when we first got married, I use to pass a church that had 5:30am Mass, and that was awesome, I did that for years. And the second time was when I was unemployed in Niagara Falls for a pretty long time. I had a part time night job doing forklift work in a company called Buffalo Hospital Supply. After I got home, I grabbed a quick nap, and ran off to St Christopher's in Amherst, NY which I was part of the 5:45am Rosary, followed by a Mass. That little group was thee most absolute blessing in my life that I needed precisely at that time. God is so good to us.
You know me with scripture and how much I love reading it, meditating on it, and sharing it. So let's look at the scripture that surrounds this mystery and also plays a significant role in how the Mass is structured:
Matthew 26:26-30
"Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I shall not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives."
This is a topic I really seriously enjoy. How often do you attend and participate in Mass? Do you only go on Sunday's? Do you only think of Mass as a Sunday thing? And where do you try to sit for Mass, upfront, near Father, near the music ministry, near the exit?? Many different people have different preferences. As a family in the past we were always front row. As time as passed and our posy has increased in size, it has pushed up back to the third or fourth row. Whenever I am alone with my family, I am always front row. Towards the bottom of today's blog I have attached a link that help you take the time to learn the Mass more fluently. You know what I did, I get the missal sent to my house, it's only like $12-$15 a year, cheaper if you really look around. And then when I got it home, I started praying the Mass privately so I can really embed it in my heart, not to mere memory, but for pure love.
I challenge you to even ask your priest for starters, if you can borrow the missal; and that you will bring it back next Sunday for Mass. When you get it home there is a section called "The Order of Mass", make time for it to be a time of prayer and meditation adoring and seriously ingraining these prayers in your heart. I was so intense and worked up with Joy, that I have spent time re-writing that entire section out. I did by hand once and I typed it twice. I still spend many hours a week and month in awe enjoying the prayers of the Mass. We have been so blessed to be able to worship and praise Jesus in the Holy Mass. I encourage you to embrace the Mass with every fiber of your being, and allow your heart to be entwined with the love shared in Mass. Mass will never be the same after you do all this. Let's look at a few of the prayers that to me light my soul on fire for Jesus... I am sure so many of you know these prayers:
Penitential Act
I confess to almighty God,
and to you, my brothers and sisters,
that I have sinned
through my own fault
in my thoughts and in my words,
in what I have done,
and in what I have failed to do;
and I ask blessed Mary, ever virgin,
all the angels and saints,
and you, my brothers and sisters,
to pray for me to the Lord our God.
The absolution by the Priest follows:
May almighty God have mercy on us,
forgive us our sins,
and bring us to everlasting life.
The people reply:
Amen.
Gloria
Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
You alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
The Order of Mass
http://catholic-resources.org/ChurchDocs/Mass.htm
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
Holy Eucharist - With Jesus
©2011 James Dacey, Jr. SFO
Hello Everyone,
DECADE OF THOUGHT: "Institution of the Eucharist - Do you have a deep sincere love for the Mass, and being with our Lord ?"
What an absolutely Joy today,will be to share the Joy of the Mass. This mystery is drenched in so much love and Joy that I will only be able to merely scratch the surface. I pray that you to have that awesome, excited, bubbly feeling inside your heart and soul; at the very thought of being able to attend Mass and be with Jesus. I still do, even after 28 years of Jesus in my life. There is something extremely special, in a very personal way when we attend Mass; and that is Jesus' presence. How many people really know the "Order of the Mass", you know the prayers we pray out-loud, and the prayers the priests say on the altar? I am so in love with the entire Mass as one big prayer that it truly sets my heart and soul on fire; to hear it, to participate in it and to feel the people around me being part of it. I simply very honestly just outright love Mass. In the past I was a daily Mass goer, and I did that for many years. Actually it has been a part of my life on two separate occasions. One, when we first got married, I use to pass a church that had 5:30am Mass, and that was awesome, I did that for years. And the second time was when I was unemployed in Niagara Falls for a pretty long time. I had a part time night job doing forklift work in a company called Buffalo Hospital Supply. After I got home, I grabbed a quick nap, and ran off to St Christopher's in Amherst, NY which I was part of the 5:45am Rosary, followed by a Mass. That little group was thee most absolute blessing in my life that I needed precisely at that time. God is so good to us.
You know me with scripture and how much I love reading it, meditating on it, and sharing it. So let's look at the scripture that surrounds this mystery and also plays a significant role in how the Mass is structured:
Matthew 26:26-30
"Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I shall not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives."
This is a topic I really seriously enjoy. How often do you attend and participate in Mass? Do you only go on Sunday's? Do you only think of Mass as a Sunday thing? And where do you try to sit for Mass, upfront, near Father, near the music ministry, near the exit?? Many different people have different preferences. As a family in the past we were always front row. As time as passed and our posy has increased in size, it has pushed up back to the third or fourth row. Whenever I am alone with my family, I am always front row. Towards the bottom of today's blog I have attached a link that help you take the time to learn the Mass more fluently. You know what I did, I get the missal sent to my house, it's only like $12-$15 a year, cheaper if you really look around. And then when I got it home, I started praying the Mass privately so I can really embed it in my heart, not to mere memory, but for pure love.
I challenge you to even ask your priest for starters, if you can borrow the missal; and that you will bring it back next Sunday for Mass. When you get it home there is a section called "The Order of Mass", make time for it to be a time of prayer and meditation adoring and seriously ingraining these prayers in your heart. I was so intense and worked up with Joy, that I have spent time re-writing that entire section out. I did by hand once and I typed it twice. I still spend many hours a week and month in awe enjoying the prayers of the Mass. We have been so blessed to be able to worship and praise Jesus in the Holy Mass. I encourage you to embrace the Mass with every fiber of your being, and allow your heart to be entwined with the love shared in Mass. Mass will never be the same after you do all this. Let's look at a few of the prayers that to me light my soul on fire for Jesus... I am sure so many of you know these prayers:
Penitential Act
I confess to almighty God,
and to you, my brothers and sisters,
that I have sinned
through my own fault
in my thoughts and in my words,
in what I have done,
and in what I have failed to do;
and I ask blessed Mary, ever virgin,
all the angels and saints,
and you, my brothers and sisters,
to pray for me to the Lord our God.
The absolution by the Priest follows:
May almighty God have mercy on us,
forgive us our sins,
and bring us to everlasting life.
The people reply:
Amen.
Gloria
Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
You alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
The Order of Mass
http://catholic-resources.org/ChurchDocs/Mass.htm
"Jesus, I trust in You."
Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr SFO
Today we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries
1. Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. Crowing with Thorns
4. Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion of Jesus
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