A Great Multitude

BEADS OF JOY 01-18-18

“A Great Multitude”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 3:7-12 (The Mercy of Jesus)

“Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed; also from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from about Tyre and Sidon a great multitude, hearing all that he did, came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they should crush him; for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed upon him to touch him. And whenever the unclean spirits beheld him, they fell down before him and cried out, "You are the Son of God." And he strictly ordered them not to make him known.”

Reflection:
Jesus drew many large crowds wherever He went. Honestly even today that is very true, or is it? If you do your own research the information you find along with some basic facts so many of us know; it will leave you without a definitive answer. The Vatican said, in a March 9, 2016 report, “over the course of nine years, the number of Catholics worldwide has increased by 17.8 percent, compared to the global population, which increased by 17.3 percent.” Yet overall in many local US cities and towns, church and communities are merging together because of two reasons; lack of attendance and a steady decrease of men entering into the Priesthood. Today’s blog is not about boring you with numbers, rather it is about what we can do. Including prayer, what can we do as Catholics to help unify our communities to help them flourish?

Yes, we’d love to see our numbers increase stronger, and most especially we do not want to see local churches closing or emerging. But, let us think for just a moment about our faith. Our faith is about our own individual experience and relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ. Yes, of cause, we have the Catholic Church to guide us and our communities to encourage us, so what can we do? I am a simple man, living a very simple life, so if you don’t think my answer is the pulse of it all, that don’t offend me. I am a cradle Catholic, but for the past 35 years, I have been a very activity ministry leader in our faith. So, this is what I see.

In our faith, I see 2 parts, public and private. The private part is prayer, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6. The public part is evangelizing, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33. I hope my observation makes a little more sense now. I don’t see either of these flourishing right now. Yes, I don’t know all things and yes, I haven’t a clue about someone’s personal private prayer life. All I can go by is how the ministry of people I try to minister too has changed. That is a general statement, but, to me, now it seems more acceptable to be on the side lines, in all things. Meaning, praying in public before meals! Speaking freely and openly about your faith! Defending Jesus’ name in conversation! And just standing up for what we say we believe! Again, this is my own observation.

Here are some short videos that may inspire you.

Francis Chan - Balance Beam (insightful, inspiring) 3:53

Dr. Charles Stanley (In Touch Ministries)
Go into all the world (The Reason for Our Boldness) 0:22

Pondering these thoughts today: I hope I didn’t bore you this morning. But, sometimes we all need to know what’s going on and how we as individuals can help the very faith we believe so strongly in, grow. Let us be honest and open here, it all begins from the hearts and souls of who we are. We must live a life that is pleasing before the Lord. We must treat those around us the way Jesus has taught us, and we must do all we can, to pray every single day and in all things. And even further then that, we must not be afraid of openly sharing our faith with others. Be bold for Jesus!

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

He Would Heal Him

BEADS OF JOY 01-17-18

“He Would Heal Him”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 3:1-6 (Man with a Withered Hand)

“Again, he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. And they watched him, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, "Come here." And he said to them, "Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?" But they were silent. And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out, and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him.”

Reflection:
I got to say, even though Christine had a very long illness and in the end, she did not win the last fight. She did win every single battle along the way. I was trying not to write specifically about all of Chrissy’s suffering and healing today, but after I begged our Lord to show me what else to write, everything led back to Christine. I got to say, I admire her tenacity and fighting a fight she insisted on winning. I just know it was her faith and the joy our kids brought to her life that gave her so much strength. I can remember many times and many evasive tests and procedures that I told Chrissy, “I don’t think I could have the strength to fight like you have.” She always to me, “Jim, this is God’s Will and I am ok with it, I have to fight, for you, our kids, our family; Jesus loves me, I’m ok Jim.”

It always amazed me how strong she was and how intellectually smart she was. Back in 2010 on the first day of her 22 days stay in the hospital, all our family was there, meaning me and the kids. Chrissy looked like she was a deaths door. She couldn’t walk, her eyes were sunken in and she was hunched over. Her doctor pulled me aside and said, “Things don’t look good for her right now.” After they settled her in her room, she and I talked a lot. She told me, “I am coming home Jim, I don’t know when, but I am coming home.” We cried, and we laughed, and I didn’t talk stupid medical sense to her, I just agreed. We celebrated Thanksgiving by her bedside that year. Sarah and I went home and made all our Thanksgiving feast, we packed it up with some decorations, and we spent the entire day by her bedside. We have so many wonderful pictures of all of us laughing and smiling that day. It was the most memorable Thanksgiving I can remember.

Let us not forget it was during that 22 days stay in the hospital that her doctor called me on my cell phone two times to tell me, he doesn’t Chrissy will make morning. Not!! Christine shut down that thought. LOL and in the end, she came home just before Christmas Day. On Christmas Day she just smiled at me and say, “Told you!!” I smiled back and nodded, “I’m so happy you are home.” Somehow, someway, she truly knew what was going on. I don’t think she was getting any secret text from Jesus?? But, she knew what and when and how this whole illness was affecting her and when to be concerned and when not. I came to that conclusion the morning she passed away, as we held others arms as blood was pouring out of her mouth. (sorry about that). Her last words looking me in the eyes were, “Jim, I’m dying!” as she released her hold and fell back on our bed.

Pondering these thoughts today: Sorry if today’s reflection was bit dramatic, I honestly did not plan to write what I did today. I wanted to focus on how our Lord heals us in so many ways; but I guess looking at this and re-reading it, I can see how sharing Chrissy’s story of faith and strength is very healing for me. I hope and pray that you the reader, can see how Chrissy, even in the worst of all situations in her life, maintained her faith and her trust in Jesus no matter what. She stayed positive and virtually never complained about anything. Christine was able to find a certain peace in her suffering, a peace I am only starting to understand. Her example is a wonderful legacy for our kids to embrace and take through their lives. Thank you for reading today’s blog.

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. The Assumption of Our Lady (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 Man is Lord

BEADS OF JOY 01-16-18

“The Son of Man is Lord”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 2:23-28 (Disciples and the Sabbath)

“One Sabbath he was going through the grain fields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees said to him, "Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?" And he said to them, "Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those who were with him?" And he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath; so, the Son of man is lord even of the Sabbath."

Reflection:
When do you celebrate Jesus in your life? Every single day! Right! We are so blessed, and we are so loved by God’s goodness, that He has also given us the Sabbath every single week; to remember and to celebrate God’s love for us. This is the one day set apart, from work and worldly activities; to praise and thank and love Almighty God. How much do you love the Holy Mass? Decades ago I got my hands on a hymnal that had the Order of The Mass in it. And yes, of cause, I asked my priest if I can take it home, with the intent to bring it back the following Sunday, which I did. I brought it home, so I can get my own subscription. I so wanted to know the Mass fully.

This action of great desire to know the Mass, developed a great love that I have for the Mass to this day. Back then at home in my prayer time, on my work breaks and many other opportunities of prayer; I would read and read and read and re-read pray, so that the very Mass prayers I loved so much, were imbedded in my heart. I was never happy with just going to Mass, I wanted to have it memorized in my heart. Not, just for the purpose of memorizing, more for the love and praise to my Lord. At times the Holy Mass still replays in my mind and in my heart. I love that so much.

For so many years and sometimes still, under my breath and in my head; I will be praying the prayers the Priest is praying during the Mass. Fr. Mullally used to say to me, “Why do you pray all my prayers? I see you moving your lips saying the words I am praying on the altar.” I said, “Father, I love the Mass, all of it, every word in it; my heart is jumping for joy hearing it, saying it, knowing it.” He said to me, “You know Jim, you really don’t need to.” I know I didn’t need to, I wanted to. It is funny though, occasionally when Fr Mullally would trip over a word or miss a word or anything of that nature, he would get eye contact with me and give me quick raised eyebrow. Chrissy used to say, “I knew Father was going to look at you, because if anyone caught that, he knows you did.” I never criticized him, I just love the Mass with all my heart.

Pondering these thoughts today: How does one get to know the Mass so well? I guess the easiest and even best way, is to go to Mass as often as you possibly can and follow along with an open heart to absorb it. Yes? No? Of cause, but there are many other ways to learn and understand the Mass today. I wish I had the technology that is available today, when I was growing in my faith. Today the online resources are endless. A little personal side note: Some of you know this, back in 1983 I had a great desire to become a Priest, me and my mother use to pray about that so much. That deep desire to serve like that, has always resonated in my heart, even to this day. So maybe, just maybe, my desire to know the Mass is deeper than all I have shared. God knows my heart. Here are a few helpful guides to assist you:

THE ORDER OF MASS

http://catholic-resources.org/ChurchDocs/Mass-RM3.htm

Bishop R. Barron on the Mass (What is the Mass?) 11:23

The Mass Explained (Catechetics 101) 10:37

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

The Days Will Come

BEADS OF JOY 01-15-18

“The Days Will Come”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 2:18-22 (Question About Fasting)

“Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, "Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?" And Jesus said to them, "Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; if he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wine skins; if he does, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but new wine is for fresh skins."

Reflection:

To start with I’d to say, that today we celebrate the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. A true man who devoted his life to stand up for freedom and man who believed deeply in our Lord. It was at the Birmingham, Alabama civil rights campaign, that Martin Luther King Jr. required everyone who participated to sign a pledge. The first on this list of ten things was: “meditate daily on the teachings and life of Jesus.” Some of the others were: “walk and talk in the manner of love, for God is love;” and “pray daily to be used by God in order that all men might be free.” Amazing and inspiring.

“The Days Will Come” Yes indeed they will, not only for fasting, but for truly believing. Let us think about this: How much do you desire to learn and understand God’s Word? And, how much do you desire to know God’s Will in your life? There is a plan and purpose for everyone of us in this life. Sometimes it is obvious, and we are led by circumstances and maybe even situations that turn our lives upside-down. Other’s pray, and God reveals Himself and the Will He has set forth for that person; yet others haven’t a clue and they really don’t know what they are to be doing. How should we deal with the unknown?

My thoughts are simple: “Be Prepared” Living a life that is pleasing to God, is the first step for all of us. This has me thinking about a scene in the movie, “Facing The Giants”, a most inspirational scene that refers to scripture. Here is the clip, it is very powerful. Might I recommend watching this movie. I am not a football fan, but I am very serious about my faith and learning all I can. This movie’s spiritual inspirational message is outstanding.

Pondering these thoughts today: Here’s a thought: Living a life striving for sainthood is a good thing. We are all called to be saints, it’s just a matter of being aware of that and knowing how to pursue that. First and foremost, we must love God with such a devout love and commitment, that He comes first in all things in our lives. Then we must love others sincerely and always place them before ourselves. Saints are humble, willing and loving in doing all they can; to live a life that serves God with all they have and with all they will ever be. Saints are people of prayer. Let us keep in mind, saints are not perfect, but keep in mind, there are many saints among us.

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. Presentation (Purity of Mind & 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

Disciples Heard Him

BEADS OF JOY 01-14-18

“Disciples Heard Him”

©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:

Do you hear Jesus in the silence of your heart? Do you make time to listen to Him? Are there times in your life, that you have wondered if our Lord was by your side? It’s so simple for us to hear Jesus, maybe not always literally or immediately; but if we simply keep quiet and truly have quiet prayer time, we will hear His voice inside our hearts. Sometimes we simply feel His love, or we feel more loved and more content in being with me. No matter what it is, our first step must be, to be more silent in His presence. I found that for me at home, quiet time is often spent looking at the cross and I think about how much Jesus really loves me. And that is the simplicity of my focus. Praying the Rosary and Bible Study are both other times I spend with Jesus, but they are my prayer times.

Early on in our marriage when we used to live on Staten Island, Chrissy and I use to go to Eucharistic Adoration. Our church back then, (St Rita’s) had adoration through the night once every week. And that schedule worked for us. We would only go for maybe an hour or two, but always for at least one hour. This was besides the prayer groups we participated in weekly. In our journey we use to talk a lot about quiet time with Jesus. Chrissy used to tell me about her quiet times with Jesus at home, when I was at work. She always got so exited telling me how wonderful and amazing it felt to just sit there holding the cross and feel His love in the silence. She was right. So, we made sure Eucharistic Adoration was a weekly part of our lives.

We have a Cross in our home with Jesus Crucified on it, it is 12 inches tall and right now it is on our wall; you see it as you walk in through our back door. (photo included) But, there is a rich history in our spiritual journey with that Cross. We have had it for decades and oddly enough I don’t recall where we bought it. Through the years especially the early years, we use to be at the Fatima Shrine in Washington, NJ as much as two times a month. Plus, most weeks on my own I would visit the Daughters of St. Paul store in St. George on Staten Island and we always shopped at Alba House on Victory Blvd on Staten Island. So, where we got it, will always be a great mystery. But I do know we have had it for decades. In the past it was never a wall Cross, it used to sit on my dresser or Chrissy’s dresser. Its intention was to hold it. Just like Fr. Pablo Straub use to hold the Cross on EWTN. (photo included) We really enjoyed watching him back then.

This is the Cross I have been talking about in today's blog. 

Pondering these thoughts today: With all my rambling on, let us not forget today’s focus “Disciples Heard Him”. I talk a lot, and believe you-me that is an understatement. Adoration shuts me up, so I can be quiet enough to hear Jesus in my heart. Sometimes, all I felt was at peace; other times I would be thinking about the Mass or a certain prayer. There was one time during Mass in St. Rita’s that during the Eucharistic prayers before Communion, I felt myself being lifted in my seat, like I had no gravity. I obviously remained in my seat, but this vision or whatever it was, it gave me a view with height looking at the altar. We always sat in the front row, right side next to the brick post. It was one of the most sensational experiences I had back then during Mass. I never shared this publicly before, this is the first time. So, after Mass, Chrissy said, that I got awful silent and you were looking all around, she asked what happened. I told her, and we said, we shall always sit in those seats. It never happened again, but I’ll tell you, I love the Mass, it is truly the most incredible part of my life’s journey.

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

In His House

BEADS OF JOY 01-13-18

“In His House”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 2:13-17 (The Call of Levi)
“He went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd gathered about him, and he taught them. And as he passed on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were sitting with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many who followed him. And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to his disciples, "Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?" And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."

Reflection:
Today I’d like to start with the Prayer of Augustine.

"Lord Jesus, our Savior, let us now come to you: Our hearts are cold; Lord, warm them with your selfless love. Our hearts are sinful; cleanse them with your precious blood. Our hearts are weak; strengthen them with your joyous Spirit. Our hearts are empty; fill them with your divine presence. Lord Jesus, our hearts are yours; possess them always and only for yourself." Now you see why I am starting with this prayer, it keeps all things in perspective. We are all sinners, no one is better than anyone else. As scripture says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23.

Like Fr. Larry Richards says, “Try to stop sinning, it is impossible.” If you listen to his talk called Confessions, you will learn how if we go through the commandments honestly, most of us have sinned more than we ever thought. So, how do we change that, or at least lessen that? The best way is through knowledge of them and awareness of other ways to keep our minds and our hearts and our time occupied. Daily prayer is the key and keeping Jesus ever present in our lives is a great start. I’m no preacher and I’m no saint. My life has been the testing ground, for me, to make the adjustments necessary to do my best to try to live a holier life. I will say this, it does consume me, in that I must be aware of my every thought and my every choice, every day. God knows my heart, but even with all this said, I still sin.

The key to living a life pleasing to God, is going to Confession frequently, look at scripture, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9. Today’s gospel just has me pondering and puttering around the thought of how scripture often talks about Jesus being with sinners. And then I think of the life of a Medical Doctor. He or she is always around sick people, helping to heal them. Jesus is a Healer of our soul, and He is here to help us get well and to help prepare us for Heaven.

Pondering these thoughts today: Might I say this? I suggest picking out a prayer or a devotion or staying focused on scripture, this wonderful thought of incorporating this into your life will consume you. The old saying, “Garbage in – Garbage out” it’s true, so instead focus on, “Jesus in – Jesus out” your thoughts will be consumed by prayer and/or scripture or both. It is a great way to cleanse your mind and your soul; and it will, in time, purge out so much of what needs to be purged out. My focus is on the Rosary, personally and in an evangelizing way of sharing the Rosary. The life of St Dominic, is one that I try to emulate. He spent his entire life sharing the Rosary and teaching others how to pray it. Since 1983, I felt our Lady tug at my heart and our Lord nudge me in this direction. Find your ministry. Where is your heart aching to be?

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

Jesus Saw Their Faith

BEADS OF JOY 01-12-18

“Jesus Saw Their Faith”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 2:1-12 (Healing of a Paralytic)
“And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven."

Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, "Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, "Why do you question thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, `Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, `Rise, take up your pallet and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins" -- he said to the paralytic -- "I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home." And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!"

Reflection:
Can you imagine this scene? It had to be breath-taking. “they removed the roof above him” This scripture has to make you wonder, “How much faith do I really have?” Our faith isn’t tested when we are at peace and everything is so wonderful. Our faith is tested when the very breath we breathe is being taken from us; or when you are pregnant with your first child and three months in, you have a miscarriage and you are bleeding and you lose your baby. These experiences brought us to our knees in tears. We are tested when we are down and usually at our worst. That is when we must turn to Jesus, but that can’t be the only time we turn to Him.

I have always shared how through the years, that we should live a life of All Things Jesus 24/7/365. Never be afraid to live your faith and love our Lord. Everyone is in a different place on their spiritual journey; yes, but one thing that should not be different is that we are all on the same path leading to Jesus. I’m not sure how many people here that read this, are married or widows or widowers. Let us look at our relationship to our spouse. You made a vow together before the altar of God. Our love for our spouse is not only in the words of our vow, but in our heart. Our vow before God and many witnesses is to proclaim our love for that person, outwardly and openly for all to see.

Proudly! Boldly! Love Jesus! Don’t hide the cross you wear. Don’t be afraid to pray publicly before all your meals. Don’t be afraid to include our Lord in your conversations. To me, this is just me speaking, if you are my friend and you criticize or silence me when I share something about my faith or my spiritual journey, and you insist on being that thorn. I won’t hate you, I won’t yell and scream at you. No, I will always pray for you and avoid you and your attempt to not let me grow and share my love for my Lord. No friend is a real friend who does not let you believe and live a life that you so desire to live that includes your Lord.

Pondering these thoughts today: These last couple of days gospels, have been about healing. Is your life a life of healing? Do you allow Jesus to be an open part of your everyday life? Would you be one of the people helping a friend get closer to Jesus? Or would you be the like the scribe who only wants to take away the joy of Jesus that you have inside you? The most wonderful part about this life, is that we truly have the free-will, to live it how we want to. I know sometimes we risk our lives in this world of hate when it comes to our faith. But, know this, I would rather die because I love my Lord, than live a lie, selfishly protecting my wasteful life. My life has value and meaning because of Jesus and it is through my faith in Him, that I shall live my days. Nothing in the life will ever turn me away from Jesus, I would rather die loving Him.

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.

You Can Make Me Clean

BEADS OF JOY 01-11-18

“You Can Make Me Clean”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

 My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 1:40-45 (Cleansing of a Leper)

“And a leper came to him begging him, and kneeling said to him, "If you will, you can make me clean." Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, "I will; be clean." And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. And he sternly charged him, and sent him away at once, and said to him, "See that you say nothing to any one; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, for a proof to the people." But he went out and began to talk freely about it, and to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter a town, but was out in the country; and people came to him from every quarter.”

Reflection:
I would guess that I will never ever honestly understand God’s choices, which I am sure are based on His Will when it comes to healing. But, that’s ok, I am not here, to question God and want answers; instead I shall share His love and seek out all the goodness He has placed in my life. Believe it or not, throughout Chrissy’s near 6 years of suffering, she was healed many times. Most certainly when we were told 3 times she was going to die.

I believe in my heart that her experience of suffering had many purposes in His Will. For starters it deepened our families already strong prayer life. But, most importantly Christine’s Hope, that she shared with others along her journey brought Hope to their struggle. Time and time again when we were at the doctors or waiting to get a PET scan or she was sitting in Chemo. Chrissy had a smile and joy that glowed (it wasn’t the chemo), and she always talked, shared and encouraged others who were in her shoes going through what she was going through, to Trust in the Lord. She explained how her faith and her family and her friends, were her strength. We cried and laughed a lot in waiting rooms; because knowingly or unknowingly, she had a mission to be there for those suffering.

Chrissy use to refer to those she encountered, to a specific test to ask for or about something or a question they should ask their oncologist. She always had her trusty little notebook with her, with all the information she needed to help them. Christine always use to say to me, “I didn’t expect that today in the waiting room.” I always suggested to her, “You should start a ministry to those who are suffering who need healing from someone like you, who understands.” She would say, “No, I don’t have time for that, we have a family and I want to spend all my time with you guys.” I could understand her realty of knowing her time here was short. But with all this said, she did have a ministry, one that came from her heart and that little notebook. I only helped encourage her to talk to people, she did so graciously and lovingly, wanting so much to help them through their anxiety and suffering. Anxiety and suffering that Chrissy knew only too well.

Pondering these thoughts today: A year has gone by now, and I have shared so much about her. I think the right thing to do in honor of my love for Christine is to write and share Her Story, of cause from my vantage point. I do know every single step of her journey. We spent 30 years together and the last six years of her life, we practically spent every second together. Our PCP (we had the same doctor) use to say, “You two are inseparable, I always see you both together all of the time.” We would just smile. There is truly so much to share, from her journey and choice to be a Catholic, to making rosary beads and her motherhood raising 5 kids; which our kids I am sure will love to chime in on. But Chrissy’s true character shined most during her suffering. She was loved and adored dearly by everyone. Whenever most people seen just me, they always asked about Chrissy. I still occasionally get that from someone who don’t know she passed away. I promise I will work on Her Story. I know many of you who private message me, ask so much about 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

He Healed Many

BEADS OF JOY 01-10-18

“He Healed Many”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

 My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: 

Mark 1:29-39 (Jesus Healed Simon’s Mother-in-law)

“And immediately he left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them. That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered together about the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. And in the morning, a great while before day, he rose and went out to a lonely place, and there he prayed. And Simon and those who were with him pursued him, and they found him and said to him, "Everyone is searching for you." And he said to them, "Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also; for that is why I came out." And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.”

Reflection:
Do we truly take all our troubles and challenges to Jesus like Simon Peter did? Yes, there is a tremendous amount of faith that must accompany that request. Sometimes all we have is our faith and a prayer, begging Jesus to heal someone we love or help us through our own personal challenges. Isn’t it amazing sometimes when we come out on the opposite side of many different challenges, we sometimes feel refreshed or at least glad we made it through; and we even wonder how we made it through, we never thought we would make it, thinking we were alone. It was then that our Lord seen us through. The Footprints In The Sand poem says it all, “When you saw only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you.”

I can recall so many times when we had nothing and no one to turn to but Jesus, and in that, simply turning to Him, we would find peace and a sense of healing. During so many hospital visits and doctor appointments and tests; we would have to deal with traffic and parking and getting in right away. It’s amazing how during some of those days, that everything went so smooth. Sometimes even test results came through immediately and unexpectedly when we really needed them. God’s hand is more in our lives than many of us might realize. When I had my first stroke at home, I was getting up to leave for work (which I drove to an hour away). Thank God, I collapsed and blacked out on my kitchen floor for 15-20 minutes. I can’t imagine how horrible it would have been if I was driving. I might not be here right now.

I know personally, that letting go and trusting fully in our Lord is not an easy thing to do. But, honestly sometimes that is the only way to get through something that is so huge, that there is no way possibly that you can make through it on your own. I’ll go back to that statement, that God knows our strength and our limits and that He won’t give us anything more than we can handle. Well, hindsight to our 30 years together and most especially her last 6 years of Christine’s life; Jesus made sure we were a close family and that we had a devoted, solid, strong marriage for what was about to happen. It was our faith that solidified the true essence of love that was in our relationship. We never ever nitpicked about the stupid silly things in life. We were always focused on our Lord and then on each other and then on our five children. When Chrissy was faced with the horrible news that her illness was terminal, we fought the fight together and our relationship got even stronger.

Pondering these thoughts today: Today’s pondering reflection has me praying, “Jesus, I trust in You.” That my friends is the greatest most simple prayer we can pray, and might I suggest that when the day seems too long and the issues seem to go on and on, turn to our Lord and pray, “Jesus, I trust in You.”

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. The Assumption of Our Lady (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

They Were Astonished

BEADS OF JOY 01-09-18

“They Were Astonished”

©2018 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s Gospel: Mark 1:21-28 (The Cure of a Demoniac)

“And they went into Capernaum; and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God." But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent, and come out of him!" And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, "What is this? A new teaching! With authority he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him." And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee.”

Reflection:
Have you ever been astonished? I mean really beyond your expectations of what you thought you just seen or heard or learned? Sometimes the simplest most spectacular things happen right before our eyes and we miss it. Have you ever seen a miracle? Unfortunately, most will say “No”; but the truth of the matter is miracles happen around us every single day. I found for me in my life, and I would have to say while I was taking care of Christine; my eyes and ears became every focused on every single piece of information, looking for the positive outcome. I always felt that throughout my spiritual life that I looked for miracles (God’s hand) in all things; but now when I look back on these past 35 years, I realize it took the life-threatening illness of my most precious love to make my focus become even more intense.

God does not give us more than we can handle. Ok, I just heard someone from the back of the room yell, “Yea, not in my life!” I would dare to say that many of us, even solid hardcore believers, have been in that place of thought at some point in our lives, but we dare not say it out loud. Well, I confess, I have been all over the map with that reaction and Thank God, my faith is really strong, and I would never ever turn away from my Lord. I know what it is to cry, with a seriously wounded heart not understanding the suffering of someone I love or even my own suffering. God has a plan and a purpose and a reason, that in this life we probably won’t ever understand it, to the way our Lord intends us to. (hope that made sense) Our faith is based on things unseen and trust, that is where the rubber meets the road. And sometimes, when the rubber meets the road; we have two strokes within two days, and/or the one we love passes away in our arms.

So, you want to know in my life. Have I ever been astonished? Yes, many, many, many times. Some I have written about and shared in previous blogs and others I couldn’t stop talking about. Throughout Chrissy’s illness we were consumed with doctor appointments, tests, results and diagnoses. It was truly an endless trail of information, sometimes hard to even understand. In the early years Christine was on several different mediations and three inhalers’. Two were mediated and one was for an emergency, when she was out of breath. To me, it was a miracle that I knew all her medication and exactly what they were for. Chrissy understandably, was in a cloud when it came to all these details. But I see now, how our Lord protected her from all the minutia of detail, that would have only created anxiety in her life. Miracles? Yes!! Many miracles. Three times doctors, (oncologists) told me that she wasn’t going to live much longer, she did.

Pondering these thoughts today: Today’s reflection and thoughts about “being astonished” was a lot to take in. I agree. I guess we all live our lives differently; some fly through life, while others drive through life. Me, I walk, stroll and take my time. Every second, every minute, every hour… (no I am not singing a Dean Martin song, lol) I am referring to the life, our Lord has blessed us with. Quality far exceeds quantity. I know what it is like, to have the privilege to buy lots and lots of things and own several enjoyable things (houses, cars, camper). But with all that said, I also know poverty and hunger only too well. And to me, I prefer poverty and slowing down and really appreciating everyone and everything I have in my life. The pain and the suffering has brought a much clearer focus in my life. And for that I am very grateful, God’s wisdom of knowing what I can handle, is very true in my life.

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