Temptations To Sin

BEADS OF JOY 11-07-16

“Temptations To Sin”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 17:1-6 (Temptations To Sin)
“And he said to his disciples, "Temptations to sin are sure to come; but woe to him by whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea, then that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Take heed to yourselves; if your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him; and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, and says, `I repent,' you must forgive him."  The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" And the Lord said, "If you had faith as a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this sycamore tree, `Be rooted up, and be planted in the sea,' and it would obey you."

Reflection:
Yes, we are all tempted and yes, we all sin. “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” ~ Romans 3:23 But, do we allow these temptations to continually drive us into sin constantly? Or Do we fight against these temptations through prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit; knowing that by God’s Grace we will get through the temptation? There are many ways to defend yourself against the temptations of this world. There are two that I have used my entire life. Do I still sin? Yes, but I find that I am more conscientious about virtually everything I do, because of these two things. So, by keeping my “guard up” I am doing all I can, not to be a complete fool to the temptations that lead me to sin.

These two wonderful ways that I keep my mind and my spirit occupied and busy and so distracted, from the desire to fall into temptation are; my life’s devotion to the rosary and my love for reading scripture every single day. And just to let everyone know, the rosary is all about Jesus in scripture. The Rosary keep my mind focused on Jesus, His Joys, His Life, His Sorrows and His Glory. And the greatest part of that wonderful devotion is that it is all scripture based. Everything leads back to God’s Word. His Word is the foundation that helps me be strong. Consider these verses:

“Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” ~Matthew 26:41

“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” ~1 Corinthians 10:13

And in the Lord’s Prayer we pray, ‘And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” ~Matthew 6:13 There is far too much to share in scripture, I can’t jam it all up in this one blog. I urge you to spend time in scripture each and every day. It will not only change your life, your way of thinking; but you will be very contentious of all the things you do each day. I get call many things, but that’s ok I don’t care. I drive a little bit below speed limit, I obey laws no matter if there are crowds or I am completely alone. To me God is always watching every single thing I am doing. I don’t care what others see, I simply care what God sees; in the dark or in the light, complete alone or with others. To me it doesn’t matter. I do all things for His Glory, to Honor Him. Do not allow the temptations of this world to trap you and devour you, for in the end, they will win and we will lose. God Bless all of you. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Monday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

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

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

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

Resurrection Questioned

BEADS OF JOY 11-06-16

“Resurrection Questioned”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 20:27-38 (Resurrection Questioned)
“There came to him some Sadducees, those who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the wife and raise up children for his brother. Now there were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and died without children; and the second and the third took her, and likewise all seven left no children and died. Afterward the woman also died. In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had her as wife." 

And Jesus said to them, "The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage; but those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, for they cannot die anymore, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. But that the dead are raised, even Moses showed, in the passage about the bush, where he calls the Lord the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living; for all live to him." 

Reflection:
The resurrection is questioned? WHAT?? Do you believe in the resurrection? Good! I pray that you said you do. If you don’t please spend more time in scripture, Jesus did say in John 11:25-26 “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?" It is through the power of the Holy Spirit that the resurrection is revealed to us. Ask Jesus to open your heart and your eyes and know that He has gone before us. Jesus has prepared a place for us to be with Him and the Father for all eternity.

Let’s look at some scripture:

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.  In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” ~John 14:1-4


“Now the company of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things which he possessed was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” ~Acts 4:32-33


“Now I would remind you, brethren, in what terms I preached to you the gospel, which you received, in which you stand, by which you are saved, if you hold it fast—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.  Then he appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.  Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me. For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.  But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God which is with me. Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.” ~1 Corinthians 15:1-11


“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy we have been born anew to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and to an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” ~1 Peter 1:3-5


I love scripture so much and it just felt right today, to let scripture be the reflection. My words would never be what our Lord’s words are and Paul’s words were. Having a passion for scripture really fulfills my life so much. I pray that you have this same insatiable desire in your soul to seek out scripture for answers and reflections and God’s direct words. Don’t let this be the end of today’s reflection, take out your bible and read a paragraph or chapter or be super bold and read an entire book today. Believe me, once you get hooked, you won’t be able to go one day without scripture in your life. I am always praying for all of you. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Sunday: We pray the Glorious Mysteries:

The Glorious Mysteries

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

Glory and Honor and Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ!

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

God And Money

BEADS OF JOY 11-05-16

“God And Money”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 16:9-15 (God And Money)
“And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal habitations. "He who is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will entrust to you the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all this, and they scoffed at him. But he said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts; for what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God."

Reflection:
True generosity does not make you poor, no; rather true generosity makes you rich. I guess the title for today’s blog should have been God or Money. And I’m not asking you to make a choice. I hope and pray that your choice is obvious. You know the blessings do come two ways with the rich and the poor, think about this: The rich who can easily help the poor, do so by being generous and giving of their riches to help those who have nothing (food and drink and place to sleep). And by the poor being poor they make it possible for the rich to be humble and charitable to help them by offering what they have. Does that make sense.

Ambrose, a fourth century Bishop once said, “The bosoms of the poor, the houses of widows, the mouths of children are the barns which last forever. The true treasure which lasts is the treasure stored up for us in heaven. God richly rewards those who give generously from the heart to help those in need.” Well said, something we should seriously think about and remember.

Who is your master? Who governs your life? Alright I’ll just ask: Is it God or Money? What controls our ideas, our desires, our heart, our choices? Yes, whatever it is, unfortunately or fortunately, will take the driver’s seat and it will take full control of many if not most or all the decisions in your life. So, when you choose, choose wisely. Whatever we possess or don’t possess is a gift from God. Yes, even not being wealthy is a gift. Some people may not be blessed with that. Some may become greedy and selfish and the very thought of sharing may never enter their minds; but being poor is a blessing because they never knew that they would be that way. I’m just being hypothetical. Another person could get into gambling or drinking in excess. No one knows, sometimes poverty has a wonderful way of keeping our lives plain and simple and very Christ centered. I am totally speaking for myself. I never fell into any of those categories when we did have money, but poverty has sharpened my faith and I am ever grateful. This is my wealth; I may not have a 401K or any sort of retirement; instead I have a JMJ-EHP!! and it is priceless! Oh, for you non-financial folks: JMJ-EHP is a (Jesus Mary Joseph -Eternity in Heaven Package), it’s available to all Christians, Catholics and believers. Jesus bought one for everybody, yes everybody. He paid for it in full! Just love Him! Believe in Him! And Follow Him! And you can have one to!! I’m praying for y’all. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Saturday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

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

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

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

The Shrewd Steward

BEADS OF JOY 11-04-16

“The Shrewd Steward”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 16:1-8 (The Shrewd Steward)
“He also said to the disciples, "There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.' And the steward said to himself, `What shall I do, since my master is taking the stewardship away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that people may receive me into their houses when I am put out of the stewardship.' So, summoning his master's debtors one by one, he said to the first, `How much do you owe my master?' He said, `A hundred measures of oil.' And he said to him, `Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.' Then he said to another, `And how much do you owe?' He said, `A hundred measures of wheat.' He said to him, `Take your bill, and write eighty.' The master commended the dishonest steward for his shrewdness; for the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light."

Reflection:
One thing God loves to see us do, is give generously. After all He gives to us generously without ever holding back. Any distraction that keeps us from truly taking care of one another a hindrance. True wealth has nothing to do with possessions or money or what we hold close to ourselves; rather true wealth is what we give away to others. Whether it be possessions or money or food, friendship, compassion or love. It’s what we give that matters, not what we hoard and keep. Every single thing we possess and keep, including ourselves is God’s. So, with that in mind, we have no right to hoard and possess and keep our excess from helping others. But “C’est la vie”, when I was growing up my Italian father would say that a lot, not even sure if I spelt it right, we are from Salerno, Italy. He said it meant “To each is his own.”

In today’s gospel this shrewd steward was making use of the landowner’s money and generosity to save his own butt. Being dishonest and clever and shrewd isn’t a good wise thing for anyone. While this steward seen himself as smart with money, in all reality, he was simply subtracting that which he overcharged to gain favor to make himself look good. That was pure deceit. How do we translate this for our own spiritual journey? We need to make good use of everything we possess, without using deceit and lying along the way. Be honest with God in who we really are in public and in private.

Do you/we make the best use of all our possessions and our money? This is always such a tough topic to read about and yes, to write about. If we live a life that causes us to embrace our possessions and wealth to the point of forgetting others; then honestly we need help. I can’t help but think of The Parable of The Foolish Rich Man. He was so focused on expanding his wealth, his barns, his selfishness, that his eyes only focused on himself. But he was such a fool, for that very night his life would be taken from him. He was so caught up in the things that didn’t matter that he completely lost sight of what really mattered and so his life ended thinking only about himself, how sad. How many lives could he have blessed? How many individuals and families could he have fed? How many could he have provided shelter for? His legacy was no legacy, except for a selfish unraveling of wasted time for wasted gain. Let us not do that, let us learn from God’s Word that we must be generous and loving and compassionate to all. Always ask for the Holy Spirit to guide you. And when in doubt never hold out; give something to help others especially when you know you can. Praying that all this makes sense. Talk to y’all tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Friday: We pray the Sorrowful Mysteries:

The Sorrowful Mysteries

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

Thank you Lord for loving us so much…

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

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

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

The Joy of Heaven

BEADS OF JOY 11-03-16

“The Joy of Heaven”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 15:1-10 (The Joy of Heaven)
“Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." So, he told them this parable: "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, `Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.' Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. "Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, `Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin which I had lost.' Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

Reflection:
Like the shepherd and the woman in today’s gospel; do you search and search to you find what you have lost? In other words, do you seek out those you know who have lost their way to God? We must do this for one another; search for, pray for, help guide, lead, unite with, do all we can, to help assist one another to get to Heaven. The greatest reward of all; the ultimate reason why we are all here is for that reason alone. God has given us each other, so that we may help one another in fellowship; to encourage one another and be there for one another, as we all continue on this journey through life together.

Almighty God does not want to lose even one of us. Let us pray for all of us, that we may have the wisdom to know that God wants us all in His fold. We should not judge anyone; God alone is the only one to have the authority to do that. We are only to pray for one another. Love and mercy and compassion is the job of a true child of God. Let us be the children God wants us to be, helping one another by example and leading others only to Jesus.

Today’s Gospel is about seeking and reward. Seeking and searching till we find! And the reward is the joy of Heaven! Our time needs to be properly spent in what we do. God has granted all of us time and the amount that is unknown. Some of us are blessed with 20 years, while others get 90 years; the only thing is, we don’t know our number. So, we need to live a life in preparation all the time. Like I write in so many of my blogs, live a life that is fully focused on Jesus. Read your bible every day, go to adoration weekly, go to Mass as often as you possibly can, go to confession as often as you possibly can, select a devotion like the Rosary and make it yours and pray it every day. Do all you can to have Jesus in your life constantly 24/7/365. This will do much for you. It will make you a better person, and it will help to keep you always prepared for Heaven. I am always praying for all of you every single day. Talk to you again tomorrow my sisters and brothers.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Thursday: We pray the Luminous Mysteries:

The Luminous Mysteries

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

Glory and Honor and Praise -Lord Jesus Christ!!

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

All Soul’s Day

BEADS OF JOY 11-02-16

“All Soul’s Day”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

 My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: John 6:37-40 (All Soul’s Day)
“All that the Father gives me will come to me; and him who comes to me I will not cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me; and this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up at the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day."

Reflection:
Let us begin this reflection with a song:
I Know That My Redeemer Lives, By Scott Soper.

God offers us the free gift of faith through His Son Jesus. And it is through the power of the Holy Spirit that works through us that opens our eyes and ears to the voice and sight of God. We must trust fully in Jesus knowing that the Spirit is the key to our faith, knowing that by the Spirit, we will be guided and taught and shown the way. Sometimes all of this is very difficult to explain in words. But if you trust fully in the Lord you will begin to understand much of this. Each of us are on our own journey home to the Father; even though the destination is the same, our journeys are all unique to each of us.  Even that will make sense as you grow in fellowship with the Spirit amongst your sisters and brothers in the Lord.

Do you place all your hopes and dreams alone in this life? When this life ends where are your hopes and dreams? Our lives never end when we live a life full of the Holy Spirit; we may physically die, but spiritually we will live eternally. We have the greatest gift God has ever given anyone: Eternal life. Death cannot harm us, yes our bodies will decay and no longer be, but we shall eternally live in Spirit in Heaven with Jesus and The Father for all eternity. In this life, we must think of those things; not in a morbid scary way, but in a predestination sort of way. Hope that all makes sense. Just knowing that our life is eternally everlasting with God; is an absolutely wonderful and splendid way to live this live.

Prayer for All Soul’s Day

Lord God,
you are the glory of believers
and the life of the just.
Your son redeemed us
by dying and rising to life again.
Since our departed brothers and sisters
believed in the mystery of our resurrection,
let them share the joys and blessings
of the life to come.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Wednesday: We pray the Glorious Mysteries:

The Glorious Mysteries

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

Glory and Honor and Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ!

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

Blessed Are You

BEADS OF JOY 11-01-16

“Blessed Are You”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12a (Blessed Are You)
“ Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.”

Reflection:
Do you understand happiness, in sorrow? Do you hunger and thirst for God so much so, that nothing else can possibly satisfy that feeling in you, and fill you with such incredible complete contentment? Yes, indeed, that was a huge question. All the things on this earthly life will one day pass and all we will have is Jesus before us. Did you ever the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”? Well if your entire basket is sitting on the ground of this earth and all the eggs are in it or even if they are in a bunch of different baskets on this earth, then you have all your eggs still in one basket. Think about that for just one minute. Simply move most of your eggs into a basket held by Jesus and you will be making a wise move. Of cause, I don’t mean real eggs, it’s just a saying. I am referring to your focus and your hopes and your dreams and your goals, your time and your life’s purpose. If you are fixated on this earth, this is where you will remain.

We need to use the time we have here the best way we can, focusing on Jesus and sharing Jesus. We don’t have to be college educated or have gone to a seminary. Our faith, simple and pure is all we need. God knows our hearts and our witness is our lives that we live. Everything that we do will be observed not only by God, but by others. The doubters will look and see if what we say, is what we do. The believers will look and see what we say and share, is indeed what we do. But most importantly behind closed doors, God Himself when no one is looking, sees exactly who we are when no one is looking; and it is His eyes that matter the most, for in His judgement we shall be eternally judged. Let us use this time wisely and with the best of all intentions.

There is nothing in this world that we need once we have Jesus. I always consider my life complete with Jesus in it. Nothing else is needed. Period! This is what I have been saying for decades:

"You can have all this world has to offer, it’s wealth, it’s lust, it’s things; all I want and desire is Jesus.” ~ Jim (Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

I stand by that to this day. The reality is, all I want is my rosary beads and my bible, my family and friends and I’m good. I believe we can all live simple lives without having so much over-excessive stuff; while doing all we can, to help as many individuals and families as possible who have absolutely nothing, including food. That is what we should be doing. Let us reach out to others as best we can. God knows our hearts and our intentions, ask Him to lead you to those in need. Let us all pray for those who suffer the most and ask Jesus to help us help them. May our guide your hearts as we do all we can to help others. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Tuesday: We pray the Sorrowful Mysteries:

The Sorrowful Mysteries

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

Thank you Lord for loving us so much…

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

They Cannot Repay You

BEADS OF JOY 10-31-16

“They Cannot Repay You”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 14:12-14 (They Cannot Repay You)
“He said also to the man who had invited him, "When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your kinsmen or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return, and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. You will be repaid at the resurrection of the just."

Reflection:
Who do you favor the most? Who are you trying to impress? Is it the person who can repay you back with a favor or some sort of generosity or jester better than the one you gave? Or Do you help and favor the poor and those who can’t repay you? True generosity comes from someone who has a heart full of mercy and love and they do not count the benefits of gain when they are giving. No, on the contrary, they give knowing that their giving is a sacrifice they desire, to help meet the needs of another. The giving comes from the heart, not the wallet. Do you give freely or do you take notes and keep a record of what you have given and to whom?

Our Lord wants us to simply be there for one another without a price tag comparison or a “you do for me and I’ll do for you” attitude. The more we can do for one another, the better all of us will be. And the more those who are more blessed can do for those struggling without expecting anything in return; the more charitably loving this world will indeed be. No one can give more than God can give and has already given to us. All we must do is be there for one another; and stop embracing our things and instead embrace each other. Once you begin to understand that, all this will make sense. God has blessed us with each other, now if we can only see the true blessing in that; we’d realize the infinite value in it and all these things wouldn’t mean a thing and the lives of our family and friends would come first.

I realize this gospel was short, not leaving much to reflect upon; but we can reflect on what we can do for others. The best way I have learned to understand and make it so easy to give is this. Everything I have! Everything I own! Everything I earn! Everything single thing, possession or cash, whatever, it’s all 100% God’s first, then He gives it to me to be a steward of His things. I realize many people can’t get to that point, but you can if you want to. One step at a time our Lord will help you understand this. And once you truly understand this, you will be freed from the shackles that bind you to all these things. You may even be poor from time to time, but God shall provide. Reaching out to the needs of others, is one of the greatest joys God has allowed us to embrace. Never sit back and watch someone suffer, instead lean in and help them up and do all you can to make their lives better. God watches everything we do; He knows our hearts. A cup of water to someone thirsty, can be a blessing beyond anything some of us may never understand. Reach out to those in need, don’t turn away; instead stay and help them through their day. Pray each day asking God what you can do. If each of us just do a little good; what a different more peaceful world it would be. My prayers continue for all of you. Talk to you tomorrow.

This is all of Luke Chapter 14…

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Monday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

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

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

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

Today Salvation Has Come

BEADS OF JOY 10-30-16

“Today Salvation Has Come”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 19:1-10 (Today Salvation Has Come)
“He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today." So, he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost."

Reflection:
If Jesus were to say “I must stay at your home today” would you be embarrassed or excited? Would you have to text someone to prepare your home in advance? or Would your home always be ready for His arrival? Zacchaeus was a hated man, he was a tax collector, a chief tax collector! Tax collectors were known for cheating and overcharging all the people; hence these tax collectors accumulated great wealth from their lying and cheating practices of how they conducted business. But look at what Jesus’ visit did to this man’s heart! Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold." Such an amazing blessing has come upon this man. His heart has changed from greedy to loving. After this encounter the community Zacchaeus was living in would all feel that blessing.

Is there room for Jesus to sit at your table? Can Jesus step fully into your life? God knows all of us need His love, His mercy, His forgiveness and His compassion in our lives. How can we improve or change what we do in our lives to be like Zacchaeus? Zacchaeus completely turned his life around and did all he can for others, never to cheat another person again. All of us of cause do not fit into this category of business or social practice of lying or stealing or misleading to have personal gain. But then self-examination is the best test here, yes, including myself. Where in our lives do we use a situation or a story or a reason; to not help someone so that we gain more keeping it to ourselves rather than give? Yes, that’s similar, sadly in many ways it’s probably worse.

Our objective as Catholics should always be to help others; in whatever way, we have been blessed to help them. If we are greedy in power, finance or possession and we refuse to open our closed fist to reach out to our needy sister or brother; then we too are just as guilty as Zacchaeus. There are many poor and needy individuals and families out there that need our help. Some need friendship and compassion and many of us are gifted in that area of blessing. A friendly hello, or a handshake or a hug or an encouraging word or even a prayer with them. Others of us can provide some additional food, because we have so many left-overs. Well, wrap up a plate or two or a tray; just get them food immediately, they are hungry. If you have ever experienced hunger you would understand. Even invite them over, have a meal, a prayer, extend your love and compassion. And then there are others who can help them in ways that mean a lot, secretly pay their rent, maybe pay a bill or two at the utility company. Get them a food store gift card. You can do all this uncover if you don’t want to be known. You have no idea how much joy you will bring to those suffering. They will certainly cry tears of joy. Consider many of these things, most especially as we come upon this holiday time of the year (Thanksgiving & Christmas)! Think of others and incorporate that thought, as you are planning your holiday festivities. God Bless all of you. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Sunday: We pray the Glorious Mysteries:

The Glorious Mysteries

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

Glory and Honor and Praise to You Lord Jesus Christ!

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

Humility or Humiliation?

BEADS OF JOY 10-29-16

“Humility or Humiliation?”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 14:1,7-11 (Humility or Humiliation?)
“One Sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him.

Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he marked how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, "When you are invited by anyone to a marriage feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest a more eminent man than you be invited by him; and he who invited you both will come and say to you, `Give place to this man,' and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, `Friend, go up higher'; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you. For every one who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Reflection:
What is true humility? Why should you take on the characteristics of humility in your life anyway? Who wants to be last? If I am humble does that mean I must always be last? Now there’s no need to get your feathers all ruffled about this. Humility in God’s eyes is a good thing. True humility just takes our pre-occupational thoughts off ourselves; so, that we don’t see ourselves as better than others. Kind of a sobering thought of equality, that is all. Also, humility is the opposite of pride; so being humble helps keep our pride and selfishness in check. We are neither better or worse than anyone else, we are simple equal with them.

Humility is our true self in action, we become honest and real; making ourselves better in the person we really are. We will serve others better when we are humble for the desire of serving them; without having our own selfish desires getting in the way. The true humble person seeks only to serve; they do not seek fame or fortune or any sort of gain when they serve. Success is not in the vocabulary of the humble. Only in successfully helping and serving others. Humility is about giving, not taking. Even in giving the front seats to others. How do you drive out there on the road? Are you courteous? Do you LET others cut in front of you? Do you let someone take the front parking spot? Do you slow down to let someone in? Think about how you can be humble in your everyday life in the simplest things.

Humility is not about being weak, no, no; on the contrary, to be humble one must be strong in self-control and thoughtfulness. You must be thinking all the time about others before yourself, in order to be a sincerely humble individual. Weak selfish people place themselves first all the time; always thinking, only about themselves. It is by God’s grace that you have the strength to live the life of humility. Just think of how truly wonderfully at peace this world would be, our communities would be, our families would be, our friendships would be; if all of us would live the life of humility to its fullest. Selfishness, pride and greed have been the destruction of much around us. But, humility can be the saving grace to all of it. If more and more of us put others first before ourselves; little by little, more and more peace will prevail around us. Just a thought. Keep smiling my sisters and brothers, talk to you again tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Saturday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:

The Joyful Mysteries

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

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

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

He Called His Disciples

BEADS OF JOY 10-28-16

“He Called His Disciples”

©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 6:12-19 (He Called His Disciples)
“In these days he went out to the mountain to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. And he came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all the crowd sought to touch him, for power came forth from him and healed them all.”

Reflection:
What is holding you back from giving 100%+ to God? Or is there anything holding you back? The chosen twelve were simple ordinary people, none were professed scholars, none were wealthy, none had any great political influence; they were all simple ordinary working men who dealt with the day to day issues of life. The vast majority of us fit into that category. When Jesus calls us to serve, most of us, at the time of our call, just like the disciples have little or nothing to offer; all we have is a heart with a desire to serve. We are then fashioned to His needs with our gifts and ability. We must allow the power of the Holy Spirit to mold us to what our Lord so desires of us by our gifts; placing full trust in Him as we begin this journey. If we allow it and we are open to the Holy Spirit leading us, it can be a most exciting journey.

All of us have some sort of a gift that God wants in His Kingdom. I know many who have said to me, “Jim, I can’t write, I don’t play an instrument, I can’t build things, I’m not creative, what can I do?” For starters, I always say, slow down and simply ask the Lord to guide you in your prayers. Two ways to look at this, more I guess if you want to take the time to see. But one way is maybe there is a gift inside you that by God’s grace through your love for Him it will come out; and the other is simple incredible gifts so many unfortunately overlook: like being a compassionate friend, having an understanding heart, being a devoted parent, being a devoted sincere spouse, being a selfless neighbor looking out for the well-being of the community. There are so many gifts that fill us, sometimes all we need to do is pray about what God wants of us and believe me, He will guide and direct you.

Never underestimate how God will utilize whatever it is we can do. Let us be like the disciples, and follow Jesus fully trusting in Him. When Jesus calls you to serve, don’t run away from the calling thinking; “I am useless I can’t be of any use.” You have been chosen, because God sees in you something very special, simply allow His light to shine through you. Allow your hands to be His. Allow your feet to be His. Let Jesus work His Will through you, so that His Will not only brings you closer to Him; but by your work, others are brought to Him. Trust is the key. Trust fully in Jesus without any reservation. Once the flood gates of your heart opens and you have allowed His love to flow through you; your life will become an amazing witness, many will love Jesus because you brought Him to them. I know in my heart many of you are on the same page I am on. If any of you have any questions or doubts know that your Priests or a close devout friend will be able to help you. I’m not a Priest or Religious, nor a scholar with any Biblical training, neither am I here for profit or gain. I am a simple man, a dad, a husband, a devout servant of Jesus. I am here sharing my faith, from my heart. My 33-year non-stop journey home and I have given all of you a window seat. I hope and pray for you every single day. Talk to you tomorrow.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)

Today is Friday: We pray the Sorrowful Mysteries:

The Sorrowful Mysteries

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

Thank you Lord for loving us so much…

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

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

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