He Will Baptize You

BEADS OF JOY 01-08-18

“He Will Baptize You”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 1:7-11 (The Baptism of Jesus)

“And he [John the Baptist] preached, saying, "After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."

Reflection:

So many of us know that our lives can be transformed, by the power and the love of Jesus Christ. Let us keep this thought fresh in our minds and our hearts, “He who was sinless came and died for our sins.” Why? Because He loves us, and it was God’s Will that His only begotten Son died for us to save us. It has also been said that His baptism of coming out of the Jordan soaked in water; was a foreshadowing of His death on the cross, soaked in blood. Now with all that said, this scene at Jesus’ Baptism must have been breath-taking. Look at verses 10-11, “And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."

Here’s a great question: Have you ever been to a Life In The Spirit Seminar? If you are saying “Yes” then you know how amazingly powerful your experience was. But if you said “No”, might I suggest or recommend that you consider it. There are 7 sessions, sometimes it is done through a weekend at a retreat house and other times it is through a 7-week process of getting together. I have been to three of them. I did one with my first girlfriend who I introduced my faith to, we did the 7-week one. And then Chrissy and I did (2) Life In The Spirit Seminars. We did both the weekend and the 7-weeks. All of those experiences happened in the mid to late 80’s and I can still look back in awe and remember them.

I didn’t plan or expect today’s blog to go in the direction of the Life In The Spirit Seminar; but I am glad it did. Just to let you know, I freely let the Holy Spirit lead the topic and focus of what I write, as I write. These thoughts, rekindle many wonderful, blessed, joyful memories of those years, when I was entrenched in my faith. Memories I haven’t looked back at in years. 35 years ago (1983), even though I am a cradle Catholic, it took the experience of the Holy Spirit (in My Story) to bring my faith to life. I still feel like a new babe in the faith. I still feel like I have only just begun. I can’t believe 35 years of sharing Jesus; our Lady and the Rosary has already gone by.

What is the Life In The Spirit Seminar?
“The Life in the Spirit Seminar is an invitation to make or renew a deep personal commitment to Jesus Christ in openness to the Holy Spirit and His gifts. It serves as an introduction to a life in the power of the Holy Spirit. It provides teaching, guidance, and prayer leading to a new and deeper relationship with the Lord. Come and experience the presence of the Lord, through praise and worship with community!” ~Diocese of Covington, KY

Pondering these thoughts today: I have this one memory (I actually have a gazillion of them) I just need to share this one; the excitement about my faith is always so alive inside me, to this day. Back in 1983-199? I was deeply involved with 3 weekly prayer groups. I made so many new friends and I began my Rosary Ministry. Well, one friend (can’t remember his name, I think it was Don), I use to drive him home after all these meetings and we talked a lot. I still remember him asking me, “Jim, what are you going to do with your life, when you are done sharing your faith and the rosary?” I was like, “Done? I will never ever be done. My faith is my life, a thousand years won’t be enough!” He was like, “Oh, Ok, so you’re really into this then.” I was taken by his words, “Into this? Our faith is our life, our future, our everything.” Wow, I haven’t thought of that conversation in decades, but it sure feels amazing re-living that experience.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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 Monday 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

They Rejoiced Exceedingly

BEADS OF JOY 01-07-18

“They Rejoiced Exceedingly”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12 (The Epiphany of The Lord)

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him." When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: `And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel.'" Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star appeared; and he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." When they had heard the king, they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.”

Reflection:
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy;” Today is the Feast of the Epiphany of The Lord. The twelfth day after Christmas is also known as the Little Christmas. Back in the day when our kids were little, on this day every child received one gift. Just moments after the blessing of our home. Their presents at the blessing was important, so they participated in our prayers and listened to its meaning. Chrissy and I and whoever was home at the time, did this together up till 2015. Last year we were too numb, but this year (today) it’ll be me and Travis and Charlie. Here is a quick explanation to what the inscription means.

The Blessing of The Home

The blessing of home (as well as proclaiming the date of Easter) on the Feast of the Epiphany, twelve days after Christmas. Family and friends gather together as they ask for God’s blessing on their homes. For all who live there and visit here. They also invite Jesus to be a daily guest in their home, in all their travels, all their conversations, all their work and play, and most especially in all their joys and sorrows. One way to acknowledge this and celebrate this, is by writing in chalk over all the doorways in your home: 20 + C + M + B +18. The C, M, B represent the names of the Magi, Casper, Melchior and Balthazar. There is also a Latin representation of the letters: Christus Mansionem Benedicat which translated means “May Christ Bless This Home”. The 20 and the 18 represent the year. And the “+” signs represent the sign of the cross. It is a reminder to all who enter, and it’s also an outward symbol of your faith.

While writing this inscription over your doorways in chalk, pray this prayer: “The three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar followed the star of God’s only begotten Son who became human two thousand and eighteen years ago. May the light of Christ bless our home and all who live here and visit here, and He remain with us throughout the new year. We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen.”

Pondering these thoughts today: Today, St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, has a wonderful reflection from his homily of The Gospel of Matthew. "Note how fitting was the order of events: the wise men saw the star, were received by the Jews and their king; they heard prophecy to explain what had appeared; the angel instructed them; and then they journeyed from Jerusalem to Bethlehem by the guidance of the star. From all this we learn that this was not an ordinary star, for no other star has this capacity to guide, not merely to move but to beckon, to “go before them,” drawing and guiding them along their way. The star remained after bringing them to the place, in order that the child might also be seen. For there is nothing conspicuous about the place. The inn was ordinary. The mother was not celebrated or notable. The star was needed to manifest and illumine the lowly place, until they had reached their destination at the manger."

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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

The Son of God

BEADS OF JOY 01-06-18

“The Son of God”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 3:23-38 (The Genealogy of Jesus)
“Jesus, when he began his ministry, was about thirty years of age, being the son (as was supposed) of Joseph, the son of Heli, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Jan'na-i, the son of Joseph, the son of Mattathi'as, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Nag'ga-i, the son of Ma'ath, the son of Mattathi'as, the son of Sem'e-in, the son of Josech, the son of Joda, the son of Jo-an'an, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerub'babel, the son of She-al'ti-el, the son of Neri, the son of Melchi, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elma'dam, the son of Er, the son of Joshua, the son of Elie'zer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonam, the son of Eli'akim, the son of Me'le-a, the son of Menna, the son of Mat'tatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David, the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Bo'az, the son of Sala, the son of Nahshon, the son of Ammin'adab, the son of Admin, the son of Arni, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah, the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, the son of Serug, the son of Re'u, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah, the son of Ca-i'nan, the son of Arphax'ad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech, the son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Maha'lale-el, the son of Ca-i'nan, the son of Enos, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.”

Reflection:
Today’s gospel is so exiting. I love the study of genealogy. I could spend hours learning the history of who we are and where do our roots begin. I have allotted to it many times, but I am my Families Historian. My Uncle Al, one of my dad’s older brothers was our original Family Historian; but back then, in the early 90’ (1990’s) lol, we didn’t have the research tools we have now. So, I began to truly seek a desire to learn about my family; my true hunger for knowledge about who we are began in 1983 (within the journey of My Story). So, for almost a decade, Uncle Al and I use to spend hours and days and even weekends going over all the history he knew. He even wrote a book explaining our journey to America in 1875. He passed away in 2000, I am so blessed to have had such a wonderful time learning from him. His excitement about our family heritage was so contagious, I still get so wound up when I learn more details about my family.

In today’s gospel we are so blessed, we actually get to read and even research if we so desire, the genealogy of Jesus, our Lord. This is so amazing and incredible. Early on, when I began my spiritual journey I always wondered about the family roots of Joseph and Mary. As I began my journey I found many scriptures and I began to see how connected and complete the Bible really is. The Old Testament was preparing the way for Jesus for the New Testament. This genealogy and linage of Jesus shows us the human side of our Lord. Indeed, the humanity of Jesus Christ is the culmination, of all the people that led up to Him throughout scripture. I do recommend if you have the opportunity, to either read or study the Old Testament, it will fill your hearts with so much joy, seeing the connection.

Yes, family history and trying to make family trees can be daunting and confusing at times. I taught myself how to understand all that, I found it to be fun, I guess because I really wanted to understand it. Who is the father of who? ...and wait, why do so many people have the same name? Yes, the confusing part of family history that I have found most intriguing; is that certain names get used over and over and over again. That is funny in an odd curious sort of way. And in most of my finding in my own research there wasn’t always, Sr, Jr, III, IV. No, they didn’t always do that. Case and point. Chrissy’s grandfather on her dad’s side was Charles Mersereau and so the confusion began; every single Charles had a father named Charles for almost 6 generations back and some of them named their son Charles, talk about confusion. But, with all that said; it was still so much fun to research and even learn all of that.

Pondering these thoughts today: Have you ever wondered about your own family heritage? About your family tree? Who are the people that came before you? What kind of faith did they live by? Some of that information can be found in research, but most of the time, the depths of those details come from what the family has shared and passed down through the years. How do you want to be remembered for future generations in your family? Would you like to be a beacon of faith? You know you could be. Do you want to maybe one-day, help inspire the faith of your great, great, great, great grandchild; because of the life you led and the stories of your life that you have shared? Journal or write down your stories, your experiences and you will have a legacy to pass on. I strongly encourage you to begin your legacy of faith.

This is My Story, this is where my interest and desire to learn more about my family heritage all began. My life is devoted to the Rosary; what I have found, is that so many people in my family were to. I found it through writings, sharing and what experiences I remember as a child.

http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-story-1st-time-posted-here.html

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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

You Will See Heaven

BEADS OF JOY 01-05-18

“You Will See Heaven”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: John 1:43-51 (The First Disciples)

“The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!" Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these." And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man."

Reflection:
Dear Lord Jesus, today’s gospel is so exciting. I am thrilled at the very thought of Heaven. It is only through our faith in Jesus Christ, that we could possibly even attempt to begin to understand how; our Lord’s death on the cross defeated sin and opened the gates of Heaven for us. But, it through that, that we gain the strength and boldness to live a life that leads us to Heaven. We all know our free will, can mess things up on us. It is through our faith that we must see what Jesus has done for us. Today’s gospel has me thinking about the dream of Jacob. (Genesis 28:10-17) The true stairway to Heaven that was brought to Jacob in a dream.

This is what we are here for! To prepare our lives, here and now, so that we can go to Heaven for all eternity in the Kingdom of God. This life has many challenges and trials and disappointments that try to derail our focus. We must not allow our hearts to be so distracted and so mislead, that we take our eyes off the gates of Heaven. There is no way we could possibly, completely understand God’s Plan. But, He has given us enough of a foundation and His Word (the Bible) and the Holy Spirit to help guide us to Him. Full Trusting in Him is the key to staying to the course.

If we strive to do God’s Will, the Kingdom of Heaven is within you. Let us tap into this most incredibly exciting part of this journey, we call life. By keeping Jesus as the absolute center of our lives, He will become the beacon by which we follow, the very core of how we speak, what we think, what we do and what we desire will all come from our love for Jesus. Heaven is real and we all feel and know many family members and dear friends are there waiting for us. Staying focused on Heaven is a great way to live this life.

Pondering these thoughts today: We are very fortunate and blessed in this life, especially with all the information and guidance we have in our faith. One day many questions we have will be answered and many loved ones we have missed dearly, will back in our lives. We must love God; with all of our hearts and all of our soul and all of our mind. And let us not forget to love others and be there for them. We have been given a most special eternal gift, the kingdom of Heaven. In this life there is a way to carve out and create that little bit of Heaven here on earth; and when we do, what I have found out, is that it can weather every single storm of challenges and stress and pain this world will give us. I suggest we all get excited about loving Jesus like never before and believe you me, your life will never ever be the same.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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.

What Do You Seek?

BEADS OF JOY 01-04-18

“What Do You Seek?”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: John 1:35-42 (The First Disciples)

“The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" And they said to him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), "where are you staying?" He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where he was staying; and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him, and said, "So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter).”

Reflection:
In today’s gospel Jesus asks, “Who do you seek?” it’s really a great question and the answer will be different for all of us. But at the same time the answer is all connected to the same answer. I hope that made sense. Many of us at some point in our lives or on our journey, wonder, “What am I doing here? or What is the true meaning and purpose of my life?” The questions may vary, but the thoughts and curiosity are usually in the same wheelhouse of wonder. When you feel that inner burning desire to have real meaning in your life; you may wonder and seek more about life’s true meaning, more than maybe you ever have before.

Following Jesus is truly the greatest journey anyone could be on. Think about what life in this world is all about, or at least the way it seems advertised. We have a job, we work our way through the business world to be promoted and get higher pay and more powerful titles. We have a home, some seek a larger, more magnificent one, so they buy and live in and sell till they get what they consider success. We buy a car to get around and then after all our hard work, eventually we have an expensive piece of machinery that we believe shows who we are, and that we have made it to success. That’s just the worldly part of our life’s journey for some. What about the relationship side of this journey? Before you think about that; do you ever wonder what your life might be like, if there wasn’t all this ego and pride mixed into this journey?

Obviously, we are all different, I’m not saying everyone has these worldly desires and not everyone is seeking success or what they perceive as worldly success. God sent Jesus to us with a purpose and with so much love; that one drop of His blood exceeds the entire worlds success and wealth. Nothing in this world can fulfill our hearts desire in every possible way and meet all our needs like Jesus does. And when we embrace Him and love Him and follow Him; through the power of the Holy Spirit, our journey’s purpose gains clarity. And yes, in our hearts Jesus becomes the answer to “What do you seek?”

Just take a second and look at today’s gospel, there are 3 times that the “meaning” is identified. “Rabbi means teacher” “Messiah means Christ” and “Cephas means Peter” yes, there is great meaning in today’s gospel. What does this all mean? I’m not a scholar or teacher to answer that. I am a simple guy who deeply loves our Lord and loves the scriptures. To me, today’s gospel confirms how much our Lord wants clarity in our lives and it is through Him that we will find it. “What do you seek?”

Pondering these thoughts today: I didn’t forget about what I spoke of earlier, What about the relationship side of this journey? I will need volumes of books to answer this, so I will do my best to keep it short (which means not so long). LOL – clarity. Our life’s journey in my opinion is best traveled, when we are blessed to be on that journey with someone who is like-minded and in love with Jesus with the same if not more love than we have. (wow - now breathe) I’m just trying to sum up this, to make sense and even make an impact on your thoughts about your journey. Likeminded people accomplish a lot, they seem to be on the same wave-length of thought and desire. Chrissy and I had that connection, it was magical and honestly, it’s sometimes hard to explain. She made me a better man, a more devout man to God and to her. That connection to her on this journey in my life, enabled me to grow spiritually. Soon I will share more about another very special woman in my life - Becky. Becky is an incredible woman of faith and strength, that I greatly admire and love. I’ll share more about her in upcoming reflections and how Chrissy’s blessings led me to her.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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

That He Might Be Revealed

BEADS OF JOY 01-03-18

“That He Might Be Revealed”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: John 1:29-34 (John the Baptist’s Testimony)

“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, `After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.' I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel." And John bore witness, "I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, `He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God."

Reflection:
How is Jesus revealed in our lives? That answer, is a very significant part of our journey home. Living some secret life, saying you live the faith and that you believe is wonderful in the privacy of your own home; but how do you publicly live your life? I’m not talking about going to the town square and yelling to everyone who passes, “I believe in Jesus!” No, not exactly. Hmmm, I know what you’re thinking… what is Jimmy (me) thinking? Consider this, Jesus says, “But whoever denied Me before men, I will deny him before My Father who is in Heaven.” That’s Matthew 10:33. Jesus is very serious about openly sharing Him with others. Just look at the verse before that one, Matthew 10:32 “Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess before My Father who is in Heaven.” Ah, see, I like that verse too.

Jesus died for us, He is the unblemished lamb who is the one and only sacrifice who could pay for all the debt that we have in sin; past, present and future. Jesus freed us from death, so that we can have everlasting life. Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit to help guide us to Him always; with wisdom and reverence and a deep desire to have Him in our life always. I’d like to share a scripture that may excite your spirit and help you see why I get so excited about sharing my faith and my love for my Lord. Look at this:

Praise for Spiritual Blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3-10)

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.”

Isn’t that exciting? …psst, the answer is YES. I love reading scripture, sharing scripture and researching scripture. I invite you, to spend time in God’s Word every single day. We are so blessed to have the Holy Bible in our lives. God knew that along with the Holy Spirit, His Word would help lead us and encourage us and guide us through this life. Let us share our faith openly, and boldly share what we believe. There is nothing wrong with having a deep love and devotion to Our Lord.

Pondering these thoughts today: Think of it this way. Some of us are married, some of us are widows or widowers and some of us are single. But, for the most part we all have someone special in our lives. Maybe it is your spouse or a girlfriend or a boyfriend, or a child or a parent or a very close spiritual friend. Maybe it’s a couple of people. This joy and love that they bring into your life, leads your heart to share them with others; in conversation or because you just want to share them with other people in your life. Why? Because they bring joy to your life and they make your life so wonderful. How does our Lord fulfill your life? Does He bring joy and love into your life too? Share Him, lead others to Him. Life will become so exciting for you. I know that for a fact.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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. Assumption of Our Lady (A Happy Death) –Rev 12:1-6
5. 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

Who Are You?

BEADS OF JOY 01-02-18

“Who Are You?”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: John 1:19-28 (John the Baptist’s Testimony)

“And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" He confessed, he did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ." And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the prophet?" And he answered, "No." They said to him then, "Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" He said, "I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, `Make straight the way of the Lord,' as the prophet Isaiah said." Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, "Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?" John answered them, "I baptize with water; but among you stands one whom you do not know, even he who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie." This took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.”

Reflection:
We must realize that John the Baptist is a great example of how we can bring others to Jesus. Who are you? …to me that question stands out the most in today’s gospel. Who are we? Do we commit our lives fully and completely over to Jesus in our words and even more importantly, in our everyday actions? John was a humble man who lived his life fully devoted to God’s Will in his life, "I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, `Make straight the way of the Lord,” This amazing account of John’s testimony is so exciting. Yes, Mary’s Yes, started everything, but this obedience from John is exciting and incredible in another way. John bridged the Old Testament into the New Testament. I really love scripture, and this is so exciting.

Who are you? Yes, it’s worth asking again. Consider this. I believe that a truly committed relationship deserves full involvement and input from both involved. Does that sound fair to you? Good. Now just follow me for a moment; I don’t see marriage as a 50/50 relationship. I have been saying this for decades in my writings and in my blog. A marriage is a 100/100 relationship. Marriage is not about dividing, it’s all about uniting. Everyone’s job, everyone’s task, everyone’s responsibility must overlap. And yes, that includes 100% of your love towards the other, without holding back or sharing that deep personal real emotion of love and commitment with anyone else. I hope everyone followed along with me. Now, take that philosophy of unity in the marriage and place it in our relationship with Jesus.

Ahh, now you see what I am saying. So, who are you? Look at scripture, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5. It’s obvious that John the Baptist lived his life with this in full focus of every action and every word he would speak each day. Now can we also do that? Ok, I’ll give away the answer. The answer is Yes. Our lives must be a reflection of the love Jesus has given us and we have given Him in return. Yes, there will be sacrifices living like this. Yes, it may even cost us our very lives. So, what!! Do you love the Lord? …with all you heart and with all your soul and all your strength? Well... That is how serious our faith must be.

Pondering these thoughts today: After all that sharing I got to thinking more about marriage and the true commitment involved with two hearts uniting. Our relationship to our spouse, must have the same exact level of commitment to one another. “To love your spouse with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Just think, how much stronger marriages would be if we would do whatever it would take to make them work; sacrifice for one another without ever worrying about the cost; surrendering our very life to love and be so committed to the welfare of the other. That my friends, is how you remain married to someone for 30 or 40 or 50 or 60+ years. It’s not tolerance and a silent secret. No, it’s complete unconditional love for one another, no matter what!

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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

He Was Called Jesus

BEADS OF JOY 01-01-18

“He Was Called Jesus”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Luke 2:16-21 (The Visit of the Shepherds)

“And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this child; and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.”

Reflection:

The Christmas Season is such a wonderful time for us to get closer to our Lord. How sad it is to have no faith; we must pray for those who don’t believe, and we must share with those who want to learn. Our stories, our faith, our journey serves a purpose beyond our own lives. We must do all we can, to draw others to Jesus. Today’s gospel is so exciting and so wonderful, “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God…” We have been given a great task in this life. Let us not be like the one who buried his one talent because of his fear of the master. No, we must be bold and let our Lord’s love shine through our lives.

Jesus gave all He had so that we might live. Let us embrace this child at Christmas and throughout the year. Jesus our Lord and Savior has brought more to us than just a Christmas manger or a Christmas tree; no, Jesus Christ brought to us Hope and Love and Faith. Why can’t everyday be like Christmas? Remember that song from Elvis? The lyrics continue, “…for if every day could be just like Christmas, what a wonderful world it would be.” I confess I have that song playing in the background right now. I can’t fully explain the depths of my faith, but I can explain the excitement I experience every single day, when I get to share my Lord.

Jesus gave His life for us, in turn we should give our life to Him, for Him, to praise Him, to love Him and to share Him; that fills my heart with a fire and desire to stay focused on that which truly matters. (sorry for the long sentence, but that it’s all true) If everyone of us would just take the time to develop their own personal relationship with Jesus; peace would flow within our families and throughout the world. What is the true basis of following Jesus? Look at Luke 9:59 “And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”

Pondering these thoughts today: Jesus wants us to be like Him. It’s not an easy cross to bear. I think often of Abrahams embrace of the Promises of God, that gave him the strength to truly follow God’s Will; even almost to the point of taking the life of his one and only son Isaac. So, I embrace my cross in life. Hebrews chapter 11 talks about Faith In Action I think you would enjoy reading that chapter. We all need to live our lives with an excitement and determination to fully trust in the Lord. Why are we here? To love Him, to serve Him and to share Him. Our lives are most complete and fully satisfied when Jesus is the center of all that we do.

Today is also: January 1, 2018 - The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Mother of God 
https://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2013/01/mary-mother-of-god.html

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

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 Monday 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

My Resolutions - 2018

BEADS OF JOY 12-28-17

“My Resolutions - 2018”

©2017 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

 

Let’s make this coming year the Best Year Ever:

New Year’s Resolutions - 2018

I would like to see this year ahead be an amazing year of some remarkable changes in my life. Some will be dramatic, some will be nostalgic, some will be wise; but all will be fun and hopefully beneficial to those around me. I would like health and spiritual well-being to be my central focuses as I move into 2018. Today I share my Health Resolutions.

Just please remember, these are my resolutions, no one will ask you or insist that you have them too. Throughout the year I have been thinking about many things, mostly creating a better balance in my life. What is the balance you ask? To balance healthier living with a solid active spiritual life. I love to snack when I do my research and my writings. A habit I must break.

Lots of my snacking results in bad choices that surround my financial abilities. A $2 bag of chips of some sort or cookies are easy to eat while typing; and you get a nice amount for the two bucks. $2 worth of most veges or fruit don’t add up too much, and they are much messier to eat when typing.

My new choices will result in creating and developing new and some old habits. Just prior to my strokes in 2015 I was in top physical shape, taking no medications at all. Obviously, the change that has happened isn’t something I had control of; but now I feel like I do. I’m not going on a diet or making any major, extreme, dramatic changes in my life; except that I will be 100% conscious of my choices now. Look at the list of my health resolutions for 2018. My spiritual resolutions are always shared in my writings, today I share these.

Health Resolutions

·        I will be wiser in quality and quantity of the foods I eat.

·        I will not snack at all while writing (typing); instead I will stay focused on my task and have a healthy snack when I am done.

·        I will stop eating snacks in bed, just before I go to sleep. A habit that in many ways, ruins a good night’s sleep. Instead, I will have a glass of water before I go to bed.

·        I will continue to exercise as best as I can (my left side is still numb from my strokes) at least 3-4 times a week.

·        I will also try to walk a minimum of 2 miles a day.

Activities Resolutions

·        Somehow, someway in 2018 I’d like to return to bicycling. I used to like traveling extremely long rides on my bicycle. I really miss that. I grew up on Staten Island, I have peddled from Staten Island to Piscataway, New Jersey, Manhattan, Brooklyn and even to Elizabeth, New Jersey. Yes, I know all those bridges don’t have a bicycle lane, but I did it anyway.

·        I’d like to consider and somehow begin kick-boxing. Not to fight, but as a workout with a bag. I want to be much more flexibility.

·        During this new year, I’d like to plan more mountain hikes and long walks. My longest daily walk, was around the Niagara Airport, when we lived near the airport. It was a 14-mile walk. I used to walk that at least once every month. I walked it in the rain, the sleet, even once in a blizzard. I really enjoyed that walk. Walking is my favorite activity.

·        The key to 2018 will be, for me to remain physically active.

Side notes to my health. For the past two months or so, my doctor took me off all my medication. I’m not 100% sure how wise that was. But he feels after blood work done after I was off my meds for over a month; they show a stability in my cholesterol (106 – with no meds) and all my other numbers in my blood work show I am getting healthier without meds. Also, my blood pressure is stable and steady. My doctor says, “I’d rather see you go the healthy route to get healthier.”

PS: I want to create a list of my own healthy recipes, aside from the Italian ones I already have. Yes, Chrissy use to do all the cooking and I had my few specialty meals I made. Now it's time for me to have my own list of healthy meals, side dishes, appetizers, snacks.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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

Exciting Year Ahead - 2018

BEADS OF JOY 12-24-17

“Exciting Year Ahead - 2018”

©2017 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

I HOPE EVERYONE IS GETTING READY for:

THE BEST YEAR EVER - 2018

This has been a very long, very stressful year (2017). But by God's Grace we have made it to the last month. The house is being majorly cleaned out and downsized as I await to see, where the future takes us/me. I know God has a plan for me, I sort of know what it is and what it has been these past 34 years. Now it is time to take it to the next level and minister even more to others.

The following list of focused activities, isn't a wish list or my new year’s resolutions. No, this is a culmination of my life’s work and time already served. Now is the time to step out and begin to really make a difference in others’ lives. I have always had this (Beads of Joy Rosary Ministry) so that I can serve others by praying for them, helping lead them in prayer and help them have a deeper love like I do for Jesus, Mary and the Rosary.

I have taken so many of you from around the world on our life’s journey. Many have read about our children coming into this world and some followed my truck driving journey of 45 states praying and sharing the rosary over the road and still others of you have read the pulse of the day to day journey of Christine’s suffering right up to the day she passed away. Some of you have been here the whole time.

It’s been very difficult year for me to get the blog going again… at least with the same vigor and excitement like I had before. Please know this right now, that I am ready. The time has come to take everything to the next level.

-         I will begin to prepare “talks, yes talks” focusing on all the mysteries of the Rosary and all other aspects of the Rosary. Yes indeed, talks. I want to step-up to the plate focusing even more on the Rosary. I will be using my decades of writings, both from my blog and my journals to begin this. The time has never been right for me to begin this, I feel as though it is now.

-    I will be posting a reflection of the daily gospel every single day on this blog. As I have always done, I entwine my life’s experiences and all that I learned with my refection. I have SO MUCH to share about my life as a whole and my life NOW.

-        I will also be digging deep into my “writing files” I have so many partially written projects that I started over the past 3+ decades. It’s time for them to be finished and published. There are also well over 800 poems that I have written since 1982, that I haven’t done anything with “yet”.

-         Also in (2018) I promise you many many many many many surprises !!! I can’t say them right now. But, I will promise you this; that I will share them and point them out.

LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!

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