Author: bakocarl

Dear KMAG: 20200607 Open Topic

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.

This Superlative Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It is also a place to read, post and discuss news that is worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for your fellow QTreepers. Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront the poster.

Keep to the topic – avoid “you” and “your”. Here in The Q Tree, personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Guidelines for posting and discussion , outlined here. Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this intellectual haven that Wolf has created for us.

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

Our movement is about
replacing a failed and CORRUPT political establishment
with a new government
controlled by you, the American People.

~ Candidate Donald J. Trump

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

  1. No food fights.
  2. No running with scissors.
  3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

And,

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

Hopefully, every Sunday, you can find something here that will build you up a little . . . give you a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.” . . . “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Resting in the Lord

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.

The latest lunacy from the left is mind-boggling: COVID-19 is such a threat to the existence of society that we must live our lives in lockdown, not even being permitted to attend church services or walk with your dog on a deserted strip of beach,

BUT . . .

It’s perfectly OK, even psychologically healthy, for crowds to gather by the thousands, assaulting citizens, and looting and burning businesses all with the pretext of honoring the life of a drug abusing, porn acting, counterfeit money passing individual considered the victim of excessive police force.  And, likewise, it’s OK to encourage a million man mob to form in Wash., D.C. to possibly spread disease and mayhem on an enormous scale.

This latest bit of insanity got me thinking of how my involvement with these events are actually effecting my life in these times.  Here.  Now.

What am I missing? I’m missing the whole concept of “Resting in the Lord”. That concept is fairly well fractured on a daily basis these days and that’s what I’d like to explore a bit this Sunday.

For years, I’ve had in my mind’s eye what, for me, would be an idyllic, restful setting:

I’m sitting in an old, rather worn recliner (that fits me like a glove) on the covered back porch of a small log cabin buried deep in a pine forest.  The heady scent of the pine pitch is strong in the air and the sights and sounds from the woodland creatures, and those from the lake just a few yards away, lend a fairy-tale aspect to the sight of the red rising sun, just appearing through the trees on the ridge nearby.  The sun draws a red path through the lake, across small ripples from the gentle morning breeze.

At this cabin, I have all I need.  My health is good, my retirement income is ample, and I own the cabin outright.  My larder is well-stocked, I’ve plenty of practical clothing for all four seasons and a big woodpile, and nothing, nothing impacts my life that would cause anger or even concern.  I’ve got goodwill in my heart for all, man or beast, and a pleasant feeling of contentment, not involving any of my own accomplishments, but from being in this restful place with a feeling of gratitude for the same.

Now this tale, with a few adjustments, embodies my general feelings of resting in the Lord.

We are where we are in this country, and we have all that we have courtesy of a generous Provider Who is our Creator.  He owns the cabin, the pines and the lake and graciously allows me to stay there, without charge, if only I acknowledge Him as my Provider and trust in His Son as my Savior, which I am pleased to do.  (Jehovah-Jireh: The LORD Will Provide)

He has given me my health, and provided my larder, clothing and woodpile.  Because of my trust in Him, I will not let myself be overly concerned by the machinations of the world outside of the forest.

My Provider has written some principles that He has advised me that I should develop in my life, but He wants me to accept these principles, not as imposed and enforced rules, but as a way of life that I realize is best for me and also for those around me.

The two major principles are general: to esteem and honor my Provider and to seek the higher good for others.  A few of the personal characteristics my Provider specifically mentions are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  He has more principles such as justice, mercy, forgiveness and humility that He wants me to follow and examples for me that He has written in a Book that he left for me.

My Provider also wants me to know that He is controlling the events of this world according to His perfect plan in which all will work out to my benefit.  He does ask that I be still, quiet and rest easily in the confidence that He is in control of everything.

I also read in the Book that my Provider has some great plans for me in the future.  He is preparing a place full of joy and peace, and so wonderful and delightful that it is beyond my imagination, a place in which I will be able to stay for a very, very long time.

When the Big Crazy starts closing in on me, I find that I can escape it with a quick trip to the cabin in the pines, never losing sight of the fact that it is my Provider that has made it all possible, in spite of my unworthiness of the privilege, and giving Him the thanks, the praise and all the glory.

When peace, like a river, flows swiftly away,
And troubles like sea billows roll;
In You I’m steadfast, from Your arms I’ll not stray,
For it’s well, yes, it’s well with my soul.

  ~ apologies to Horatio G. Spafford

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above,
where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

FYI – Some of the other names for God in the Bible
(There are many more)

EL, ELOAH: God mighty, strong, prominent
ELOHIM: God Creator, Mighty and Strong
EL SHADDAI: God Almighty
ADONAI: Lord
YHWH / YAHWEH / JEHOVAH: LORD
YAHWEH-RAPHA: The Lord Who Heals
AHWEH-M’KADDESH: The Lord Who Sanctifies, Makes Holy
YAHWEH-SHALOM: The Lord Our Peace
YAHWEH-ELOHIM: LORD God
YAHWEH-TSIDKENU: The Lord Our Righteousness
YAHWEH-ROHI: The Lord Our Shepherd
YAHWEH-SABAOTH: The Lord of Hosts
EL ELYON: Most High
EL-OLAM: Everlasting God

6-3-20 Midweek Musings

Pentecost Sunday
May 31, 2020
“The Gift of Jesus and His Continued Presence”

Acts 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:3-13
John 20:19-23

My Brothers and Sisters in the Lord –

Not long ago, in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic – and while everyone was sheltering in place – I received an anonymous letter. It was from someone who was devastated by the American bishops’ order suspending Mass and all other religious gatherings.

The writer seemed to be very upset both spiritually and psychologically. The reception of Jesus in the Eucharist had been their almost sole source of strength and courage in the past. They needed the Eucharist as if it were the only way to be one with Jesus – and, thus, be able to survive the pain and the hardship which are part of everyone’s life.

The writer implied that the clergy had deserted Jesus much like the disciples did after the first Eucharist on the night before he died! We were certainly not doing what we were ordained to do!

Unfortunately, the writer seemed to be unaware of many things:
– that each believing person possesses Jesus within their heart and soul –
– that we must have a personal relationship with Jesus and a life with him apart from any tangible sign or sacrament –
– that the grace of God and the power of God are always there for us if we ask for them –
– that Jesus is present in the scriptures as the divine Word of God –
– that Jesus is in our midst whenever 2 or 3 are gathered in his name – probably even through SKYPE –
– that Catholics and other Christians survived and grew in their faith while prisoners of war for 3 or 4 years, or even longer, without the Eucharist –
– that we have an obligation under the 5th Commandment not to inflict harm on others or cause them to die by spreading the virus –
– that our present situation is only temporary – but like the Spanish Flu of 1918-1920, might have a 2nd or 3rd wave –
– that Jesus said there is no greater love than to lay down our life – or give up anything less – so that another can live!

What we all need to survive any crisis is the presence of God within us. The Father is always there with His creative life-force to sustain us, body and soul. Jesus is always there for us and will be with us until the end of time through his gift of the Holy Spirit which we celebrate on this great feast of Pentecost.

The Gospel for today tells us that Jesus bestowed that Spirit on the night of his Resurrection. But even before that bestowal, Jesus gifted the disciples with his peace. In fact, he said those wonderful words twice: “Shalom!” “Peace be with you!” Then he gave them the Holy Spirit and told them to carry on his work – especially the work of healing and forgiveness which we all so desperately need!

The second outpouring of the Holy Spirit was on that first Pentecost. The disciples had been paralyzed by mortal fear only moments before – Nevertheless, with that outpouring they became changed! They became absolutely fearless! Moreover, the good people who had assembled outside were also gifted. Each was able to hear what the apostles said in their own language! Moreover, hundreds became believers and new disciples on that day!

In the second reading, St. Paul teaches us that we can’t even acknowledge that “Jesus is Lord” without the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, the Godhead, the Trinity, has a unique plan and purpose for each of us during our time here. All of our gifts come from the Holy Spirit. The service we render comes from Jesus who commissions us. The creative work we do is empowered by our divine Father! And only fear and selfishness can impede us from doing Christ’s work and becoming who God has called us to be!

Fear always paralyzes us and keeps us from doing what we should and must. However, the gift of the Spirit casts out fear. The Holy Spirit enables us to accept mystery. It enables us to live in mystery without knowing the “what” – or understanding the “why” of the Father’s design and plan. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit always brings us peace – of mind, heart, and soul – a peace which “surpasses understanding”!

Our personal, interior peace will enable us to accept whatever might come. It enables us to rejoice both in good times and in bad, and in health or in sickness – knowing that we have no lasting city here on earth – But that we have an eternal home already prepared for us in the Kingdom of Heaven!

And so, Brothers and Sisters, let us open ourselves to what the Holy Spirit continues to be for us. May we become fearless before whatever we must face in whatever lies ahead – And may our personal, interior relationship with Jesus sustain us even when we cannot celebrate the great gift of his Eucharist!
Amen.

May 31, 2020 Msgr. Russell G. Terra
Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Redding, CA
*http://www.stjosephredding.org/parish-homilies.html

And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

Dear KMAG: 20200531 Open Topic

Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality.

This Superlative Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It is also a place to read, post and discuss news that is worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for your fellow QTreepers. Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront the poster.

Keep to the topic – avoid “you” and “your”. Here in The Q Tree, personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Guidelines for posting and discussion , outlined here. Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this intellectual haven that Wolf has created for us.

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

Our movement is about
replacing a failed and CORRUPT political establishment
with a new government
controlled by you, the American People.

~ Candidate Donald J. Trump

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

  1. No food fights.
  2. No running with scissors.
  3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

And,

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

Hopefully, every Sunday, you can find something here that will build you up a little . . . give you a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.” . . . “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

by Pastor Chuck Swindoll
Scriptures: Revelation 21:4; 22:3, 5
Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 15:19–22

Our Wondrous Hope!

What gives a widow courage as she stands beside a fresh grave?

What is the ultimate hope of the disabled, the amputee, the abused, the burn victim?

How can the parents of children who have brain damage or physical handicaps keep from living their entire lives totally and completely depressed?

Why would anyone who is blind or deaf or paralyzed be encouraged when he or she thinks of the life beyond?

How can we see past the martyrdom of some helpless hostage or devoted missionary?

Where do the thoughts of a young couple go when they finally recover from the grief of losing their baby?

When a family receives the tragic news that a little daughter was found dead or their dad was killed in a plane crash or a son overdosed on drugs, what single truth becomes their whole focus?

What is the final answer to pain, mourning, senility, insanity, terminal diseases, sudden calamities, and fatal accidents?

The answer to each of these questions is the same: the hope of bodily resurrection.

We draw strength from this single truth almost every day of our lives—more than we realize. It becomes the mental glue that holds our otherwise shattered thoughts together. Impossible though it may be for us to understand the details of how God is going to pull it off, we hang our hopes on fragile, threadlike thoughts that say, “Someday, He will make it right” and “Thank God, all this will change” and “When we’re with Him, we shall be like Him.”

More than a few times a year I look into red, swollen eyes and remind the despairing and the grieving that “there’s a land that is fairer than day” when, as John promised in the Revelation,

“He will wipe away every tear . . . there will no longer be any death . . . any mourning, or crying, or pain.” . . . There will no longer be any curse . . . any night . . . because the Lord God will illumine them; and they will reign forever and ever. (21:4; 22:3, 5)

Hooray for such wondrous hope!

Just imagine . . . those who are physically disabled today will one day dance in beautiful coordination and leap in ecstatic joy. Those who spend their lives absorbed in total darkness will see every color in the spectrum of light. In fact, the first face they will see will be of the One who gives them sight. And those precious souls whose minds and emotions are limited by mental disability, disease, or old age will enjoy to the full unhindered and uninhibited relationships. It’s enough to put a smile on any weary face. There’s nothing like the hope of resurrection to lift the agonizing spirits of the heavyhearted.

Unless, of course, it’s all a cruel hoax.

That’s Paul’s whole point in 1 Corinthians 15:19. Remember how he put it? If bodily resurrection is only an empty dream, then “we are of all men most to be pitied.” All our preaching has a hollow ring to it, our faith is worthless, the dead have perished, and we are still under the condemnation of our sins (15:14, 16, 18). What a deplorable state of affairs! It’s enough to make all of us run and hide!

But wait. That hypothetical argument hinges on a conditional presupposition . . . if. “If there is no resurrection of the dead” (15:13), then we’re out to lunch. But there is a resurrection with all its promised hopes. It is as sure as we’re alive at this moment.

How can we be so certain that we will be resurrected? What is the source of our assurance? What gives us unshakable confidence in the face of death? The fact of Christ’s resurrection.

Because He has been raised, we too shall rise. As Paul stated in that same section of Scripture, “Christ [is] the first fruits, after that those who are Christ’s at His coming” (15:23). That’s us! Jesus Himself promised, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies” (John 11:25).

No wonder we get so excited every Easter! No wonder we hold nothing back as we celebrate His miraculous resurrection from the grave! It’s a double-barreled celebration: His triumphant hurrah over agony and our ultimate and eternal hooray.

How can I keep from singing?

My life flows on in endless song;
Above earth’s lamentation
I hear the sweet though far off hymn
That hails a new creation:
Through all the tumult and the strife
I hear the music ringing;
It finds an echo in my soul—
How can I keep from singing?

What though my joys and comforts die?
The Lord my Savior liveth;
What though the darkness gather round!
Songs in the night He giveth:
No storm can shake my inmost calm
While to that refuge clinging;
Since Christ is Lord of heaven and earth,
How can I keep from singing?

I lift mine eyes; the cloud grows thin;
I see the blue above it;
And day by day this pathway smoothes
Since first I learned to love it:
The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart,
A fountain ever springing:
All things are mine since I am His—
How can I keep from singing?

~ Robert Wadsworth Lowry

5-27-20 Midweek Musings

Genuinely Humble

March 27, 2020 by Pastor Chuck Swindoll

Scriptures: Esther 6:1-12

The King Honors Mordecai

1  That night the king could not sleep. So one was commanded to bring the book of the records of the chronicles; and they were read before the king. 2 And it was found written that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs, the doorkeepers who had sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. 3 Then the king said, “What honor or dignity has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?”

And the king’s servants who attended him said, “Nothing has been done for him.”

4 So the king said, “Who is in the court?” Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the king’s palace to suggest that the king hang Mordecai on the gallows that he had prepared for him.

5 The king’s servants said to him, “Haman is there, standing in the court.”

And the king said, “Let him come in.”

6 So Haman came in, and the king asked him, “What shall be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?”

Now Haman thought in his heart, “Whom would the king delight to honor more than me?” 7 And Haman answered the king, “For the man whom the king delights to honor, 8 let a royal robe be brought which the king has worn, and a horse on which the king has ridden, which has a royal crest placed on its head. 9 Then let this robe and horse be delivered to the hand of one of the king’s most noble princes, that he may array the man whom the king delights to honor. Then parade him on horseback through the city square, and proclaim before him: ‘Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor!’ ”

10 Then the king said to Haman, “Hurry, take the robe and the horse, as you have suggested, and do so for Mordecai the Jew who sits within the king’s gate! Leave nothing undone of all that you have spoken.”

11 So Haman took the robe and the horse, arrayed Mordecai and led him on horseback through the city square, and proclaimed before him, “Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor!”

12 Afterward Mordecai went back to the king’s gate. 

Genuinely Humble

“What goes around comes around.” That popular saying has never been truer than it is here. Things have gone around for Haman—yet they finally come around for Mordecai. Sitting on that horse in regal attire, he was the most surprised man in the kingdom. That’s the beauty of the story. He was not a proud man. He was not a vengeful man. He was not whispering, “Say it a little louder. Eat your heart out, Haman.” According to what is written here, Mordecai didn’t utter a word.

I think that’s what I appreciate most in this whole episode: the silence of Mordecai. How rare are the people who can be promoted to a place of highly visible significance and not live for their own clippings or crave the spotlight or demand center stage. Soft-spoken, genuinely humble celebrities are extremely rare. Not convinced? Check the rank and file of today’s pro athletes. How refreshing (and unusual!) to find a modern-day Mordecai!

In fact, the next thing we read is that “Mordecai returned to the king’s gate.” A brief phrase, it’s easy to overlook. But isn’t it wonderful? “Mordecai returned to the king’s gate,” it says, rather than, “Mordecai accepted a major promotion.” And do you know why it’s significant? Because that’s where he’s been all the time. His honor has not gone to his head. He just went back to work.

Have you recently been promoted? Has God’s providence smiled on you so that your name is now honored in circles where you were once not even known? Have you come to a place of popularity and prosperity? Are you now esteemed in the eyes of others? If so, the real question is: Are you still comfortable at the king’s gate, or must you now live in the palace? Must you now be treated with special care and be given kid-glove treatment and not be bothered with everyday problems? Mordecai shrugged, “Just drop me off where all this started—at the king’s gate.”

No matter what happens to you, remember “the pit from which you’ve been dug.” You’ll find the best place on earth is still pretty close to your roots. Like the country song reminds us, “Look how far I had to come, to get back where I started from.”

Verses to ponder –

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience . . .

Respect for the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.

Dear KMAG: 04052020 Open Topic

Praise the Lord Anyway!

Your enemies have mocked me, O LORD; they mock your anointed king wherever he goes. Praise the LORD forever!  Amen and amen! (Psalm 89:51-52)

It’s easy to praise God when life is good. It’s a gorgeous spring day . . . praise the Lord! I just got a raise . . . praise the Lord! My doctor gave me a clean bill of health . . . praise the Lord! I got an “A”‘ on my final exam . . . praise the Lord!

But what about when life isn’t good? The wind chill factor today is minus 25 degrees . . . praise the Lord? I just lost my job . . . praise the Lord? My doctor says it’s cancer . . . praise the Lord? I’m going to fail that class . . . praise the Lord?

Psalm 89 exemplifies praising God when life is hard, praising God anyway. This psalm begins by singing of God’s unfailing love (89:1-2). Moreover, all of heaven will praise God’s great wonders (89:5). God’s faithfulness to his people is a cause for rejoicing (89:9). This faithfulness is centered in God’s covenant with David and his promise that David’s dynasty will go on forever (89:19-37). But then Psalm 89 takes a dark turn, even accusing God of renouncing his covenant with David (89:39). The psalmist cries out, “O LORD, how long will this go on? Will you hide yourself forever?” (89:46). The penultimate verse of Psalm 89 laments, “Your enemies have mocked me, O LORD; they mock your anointed king wherever he goes” (89:51).

But then comes the startling conclusion: “Praise the LORD forever! Amen and amen!” What? Praise the Lord who has allowed his people to suffer, who has strengthened the enemies of Israel, whose unfailing love seems to have disappeared? Praise this Lord? Now?

Yes, that’s where Psalm 89 leaves us, without explanation, without apology. Yes, there is an unresolved tension here, something that can’t be rationalized away. The psalmist shows unsettling freedom in his protest against God, even accusing God of breaking his promises. Yet, he ends on a note of praise, and not just praise, but eternal praise. In the midst of pain and suffering, praise the Lord! When you can’t figure out what God is doing, praise the Lord! When God feels very distant, praise the Lord!

I’m not suggesting that this is easy to do. In fact, I find this to be exceptionally difficult. Thus, I am challenged by today’s psalm to do what does not come naturally, to praise the Lord at all times, to praise the Lord anyway.

*https://www.theologyofwork.org/the-high-calling/daily-reflection/praise-lord-anyway

Praising God anyway, when we’re in the midst of difficult times needs a little context to be seen from the correct perspective.

While we were yet sinners, God showed His love for us by giving His Son, Jesus, to bear our sins as He died on the cross. Jesus’ death reconciled man’s sin and sinful nature with the holiness of God. To partake of that reconciliation, we must put our trust in Jesus as our Savior . . . not by our works, but even to those who believe on His name.

We were less than nothing and have been given everything.

So, back to praising God even in difficult times. That’s a bit like walking along and stubbing your toe, quite painfully I might add, and just when you’re ready to complain to God about it, you see that you’ve stubbed your toe on the marble steps leading up and into the grandest mansion the world has ever seen . . . a mansion that God has just given to you.

And that comparison utterly fails when we really think about what wretched worms we were in God’s eyes, and then the enormous sacrifice God made to be able to adopt us into His family as His sons and daughters.

Amazing grace, How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me . . .

So, when events take a nasty turn for us during our short time down here, perhaps we can do a bit better about praising God anyway, in view of our riches for eternity up there with God.

4-1-2020 Midweek Musings

5th Sunday of Lent
March 29, 2020
“Death Is Never the End”

Ezekiel 37:12-14
Romans 8:8-11
John 11:1-45

My Brothers and Sisters in the Lord –

A fundamental part of our human nature is that we all want to live. We want desperately to stay alive. We do all that we can to preserve our life. Furthermore, we don’t want to lose our loved ones in death. The loss of a beloved spouse is heart-wrenching. The loss of a child can almost destroy us – because children should live far beyond the life-span of their parents.

Consequently, we resist death at all costs. Because death is the end of all that we have here – at least for us. Consequently, some will even go to extraordinary lengths to keep themselves – or loved ones – alive in a hospital setting. As a result, patients must now have an “Advanced Directive” prepared before any surgery will be undertaken.

Our human bodies are simply not built to live forever. We age and grow older. We are subject to accident, sickness, and disease. Eventually, at some moment, life here will end for every one of us – For there is no escape from physical death.

However, we were created with more than a body. We also have a soul, created by God. And this soul will transcend our physical death and live forever because it is immortal. This knowledge should give all of us hope and a sense of wonder.

Unfortunately, people didn’t always know this, or believe this was possible. For them, death was truly the end. They could, at best, live in the memory of others – or, perhaps, in a monument erected on their behalf.

The prophet Ezekiel wrote for the exiled people in Babylon who had no hope. They knew nothing about a life after death. Yet, God revealed, through Ezekiel, that there would be a resurrection, someday. They would rise from their graves and be enlivened by the Spirit of God. They would have life in a new homeland that exceeded even their wildest dreams of restoration!

One of the reasons that God sent Jesus into the world was to make it clear that we could live forever beyond our life here. God sent His Son to reveal His goodness, His love, and His mercy. Jesus also made it clear that death was not the end.

Indeed, if we lived truly godly lives – if we embraced the Gospel – if we entered into a relationship with Jesus – then, after our life here, we could live forever in the presence of God. This would be in a state of eternal joy, and bliss, and love!

The raising of Lazarus was not a true resurrection. Lazarus would, someday, undergo death again. But the miracle was a sign of things to come. Moreover, it gave credibility to the teachings of Jesus – It brought many doubters to belief – And it made the enemies of Jesus more resolved to destroy him!

However, we must do more than merely believe in Jesus – We must also transform our lives to live up to what his commandments require and demand!

We cannot live by the “flesh” of which St. Paul speaks in today’s New Testament reading. Not at all! Instead, we must live by the “spirit”. By “flesh”, St. Paul means all those things which deflect us from our orientation to God. “Flesh” is much more than eroticism. It is anything of the material order that leads us to be selfish and self-serving. This includes pride, greed, lust, anger, sloth, envy, and scandal. All these things dehumanize us and keep us from being the child of God whom He created for so much more!

Brothers and Sisters, if we live in the “spirit”, then the Holy Spirit of God will possess us and direct all that we do. If we live in the spirit, we become one with the Holy Spirit and are truly brothers and sisters of Jesus, himself. And, as such, we are co-heirs with him in the Kingdom of Heaven wherein we will live after our own resurrection whenever that day comes.

So, we need not fear death. Death is never the end of life. We can live each day in hope for something more – something infinitely more! Consequently, let us pray, that we are up to this great calling – and that God will grace us with whatever we need to fulfill it!

Amen.

March 29, 2020 Msgr. Russell G. Terra
Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Redding, CA
*http://www.stjosephredding.org/parish-homilies.html

Dear KMAG: 20200329 Open Topic

This Superlative Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It’s also a place to read, post and discuss news that’s worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot, unencumbered by political correctness. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for your fellow QTreepers.

Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront another poster.

If you feel the need to bare your fangs, we have a companion site – called The U Tree – where all legal speech is allowed and where you can run wild and free with the Wolfpack.

But NOT HERE in The Q Tree. Personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Important Guidelines, outlined here. Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this precious haven that Wolf has created for us.

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

AND WHAT TIME IS IT?
TIME TO DRAIN THE SWAMP!!!

Our movement is about replacing a failed and CORRUPT political establishment with a new government controlled by you, the American People.
Candidate Donald J. Trump

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

  1. No food fights.
  2. No running with scissors.
  3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

Hopefully, every Sunday, you can find something here that will build you up a little . . . give you a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.” . . . “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Is It Well With Your Soul?

As interesting as it may be, diving into the intrigue, speculation, players and possible results of a seemingly planned and executed world-wide flu pandemic, it might be beneficial to step back and remember that:

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,
but against the rulers, against the authorities,
against the powers of this dark world
and against the spiritual forces of evil
in the heavenly realms.

Throughout history, God has been instructing mankind about the consequences of chasing after sin and about the benefits of following Him.

God allows evil to exert its influence on man, from within and without.  Man, invariably, will be enticed by evil’s schemes.  After a time, God steps in and destroys evil’s scheme, being merciful to man and giving mankind an opportunity to learn, repent and follow Him.

Adam and Eve in Eden, Noah and the Flood, the Tower of Babel, the 10 plagues in Egypt, the Exodus, 40 years in the desert, the 10 Commandments, the conquest of the Promised Land, the good and bad kings of Israel, Esther and Haman, Daniel and the Satraps, David and Bathsheba, the arrival, ministry, rejection and crucifixion of Jesus, the Messiah, and two destructions of the Temple in Jerusalem are a few of the more well-known examples of evil’s influence, mankind’s weakness and opportunities to learn, repent and follow God.

We see this process in historical and recent world events and also in current world events and our daily lives.

The current deadly and injurious coronavirus flu pandemic is a good example.  We know there are certain players in this drama that are not acting out of the best interests of all involved.  The major players might be the government of China, the Communist Party, scientists and organizations that have sold their allegiance for money, Marxists and others who want to see America and her people destroyed and even certain members of the House, Senate, current administration and others.  These people are motivated by lust for power, love of money and desire for fame.

The thing of it is, these people really aren’t the major players . . . they’re 2nd rate bit actors at best.  The major players are the evil powers of this world and in the heavenly realms.

God and His heavenly beings are in opposition to the evil powers of this world and in the heavenly realms. Although God could simply destroy all evil powers with a word from His mouth, He has chosen, for His purposes and plans, to allow evil limited powers and capabilities in their interactions with His heavenly beings and mankind. This is the great battle that is being waged in realms that are visible to us and other realms that are not visible to us.

God uses mankind to implement elements of His will on earth. In that manner, we may be participants in this great battle, and may not merely be spectators. We are to wear the armor of God so that we can stand in this battle. But, whatever our involvement, God has already won the war . . . it must, however, be played out to complete God’s will and plan for mankind.

In this present struggle we may become fearful of getting sick, of the discomfort and pain, and for the loss of our lives. All of this is very much real, but since each of us will die sometime, our main concern should be for the condition of our souls.

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear the One who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.  Matthew 10:28

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  1 Peter 5:8

Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.  Hebrews 2:1

We can’t allow ourselves to be consumed with either fear or the desire for justice or vengeance.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.   Romans 12:18-19

Our prize is not now, nor of this world. But, someday in the future, probably after our brief lives have been completed, we will by command, at the shout, at the last trump, be called to become eternal citizens of our true homeland. Pain and sorrow and the sickness of our present world will be left far behind, along with our present perspective of the flu and the world.

Last thoughts for the present time:

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.  2 Chronicles 7:14

Another thought for this time of upheaval in our lives:

Anxiety, fear and loss of control;
You fear for your life, but what of your soul?
Of all things true, man was born and will die
And then the Judgment by our Lord on High.

We pray for revival, all over our land,
That we turn to God and His merciful hand.
Let us be humble and ever seek His face,
His peace, His joy and His bountiful grace.

The Armor of God – Ephesians 6

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—

03-25-20 Midweek Musings

4 th Sunday of Lent
March 22, 2020

“The Light of Faith”

1 Samuel 16:1-3
Ephesians 5:8-14
John 9:1-38

My Brothers and Sisters in the Lord –

Most of us have heard the sarcastic statement that is applied to those who refuse to change their beliefs or behavior: “Don’t confuse me with facts – my mind is already made up!”

One of the tendencies that most people have is to remain steadfast in whatever seems to have worked for them in the past. We are creatures of habit. We get used to a comfortable routine – We resist those things which are unsettling – And this is probably as it should be. Because not every new thing is going to work. Moreover, new ways of thinking can sometimes be far from beneficial and even destructive for ourselves or for the world.

However, because of our natural resistance to most change, we can also resist or refuse something that God asks of us – something truly for our benefit or for the world! The scriptures for today have much to say in this regard.

King Saul had disobeyed God. He was no longer fit to be the leader of the Chosen People. God had a different plan, which Saul would resist – and the prophet Samuel understood this. It was for this reason that Samuel journeyed to Bethlehem on the pretext of offering a special sacrifice in that place.

Once there, Samuel discovered that none of the sons that Jesse presented were God’s choice. Ultimately, that choice was David, despite his youth and seeming lack of experience. However, we are told that when anointed, the Holy Spirit rushed upon David – the same Spirit of God that would sustain David throughout his career!

In the Gospel, Jesus heals a man who had been blind from his birth. At that time, the common belief was that any disability was because of sinfulness. Either the man’s parents were being punished for their sins – or the infant had, somehow, sinned and offended God. However, Jesus said that this belief was unfounded. Moreover, Jesus cured the man and demonstrated that not all of Jewish practice was unchangeable! Jesus healed on the Sabbath by making clay and applying it over the man’s closed eyes!

Sadly, the blindness and the hardheartedness of the Pharisees kept them from seeing the real purpose that was behind the Sabbath law of rest. It was to worship God and let the body be healed with the rest needed after a week of hard work. But what was far worse, was that the Jewish leadership could not accept that Jesus was sent by God to establish a whole new way of living and believing. The Lord was a God of mercy and love. He was gracious and forgiving. He had even sent His Son into the world to teach us how to become children of God ourselves!

Unfortunately, most of the world, today, continues to be in a great darkness of soul and spirit. We deny truth; we resist goodness; we substitute the grotesque for the truly beautiful. We are closed to God and to the ways of God. Because we cannot prove what we believe due to our inherent faith, many – perhaps most – contend that we have been duped and are to be pitied. But it really is the other way around – for they are the unfortunate ones! We have the Holy Spirit to enlighten us and to see what others refuse to see – to trust where they have no hope – to be secure when the world is in disarray and falling apart!

St. Paul experienced all that we have – and even more. He tells us that, like him, we were once in darkness, but now we are light in the Lord. Consequently, we must live as children of the light. In doing so, we will bring goodness, rightness, and truth to everything and to everyone in our sphere of influence.

Brothers and Sisters, we are truly blessed to live during the time after the coming of Jesus to the world – For Jesus is the Light of the World! Jesus, alone, gives meaning to life – and insight into the chaotic world in which we live. Jesus, alone, shows us how to rise above the evil and sin of the culture and the world, and remain steadfast in our obedience to God, our Father.

So, let us pray, today, that we truly become children of the light – May we open ourselves to all that God asks – And may we, somehow, see and understand what others refuse to accept or believe!

Amen.

March 22, 2020 Msgr. Russell G. Terra, Parish Homilies,
Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Redding, CA
*http://www.stjosephredding.org/parish-homilies.html

Dear KMAG: 20200322 Open Thread

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. (Psalm 1:1-2)

This Superlative Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It’s also a place to read, post and discuss news that’s worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot, unencumbered by political correctness. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for your fellow QTreepers.

Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront another poster.

If you feel the need to bare your fangs, we have a companion site – called The U Tree – where all legal speech is allowed and where you can run wild and free with the Wolfpack.

But NOT HERE in The Q Tree. Personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Important Guidelines, outlined here. Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this precious haven that Wolf has created for us.

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

AND WHAT TIME IS IT?
TIME TO DRAIN THE SWAMP!!!

Our movement is about replacing a failed and CORRUPT political establishment with a new government controlled by you, the American People.
Candidate Donald J. Trump

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

  1. No food fights.
  2. No running with scissors.
  3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

Hopefully, every Sunday, you can find something here that will build you up a little . . . give you a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.” . . . “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

His Way

There is a way that seems right to a man,
but its end is the way of death.

My Way Or God’s Way? (Genesis 27:1-46)

Frank Sinatra’s well-known song, “I Did It My Way,” was shocking for its blatant ungodliness. Of course what Sinatra stated plainly in that song, “I did it my way,” is true of every person who does not submit his life to Jesus Christ. Most people just aren’t as open as Sinatra in stating the controlling force of their lives.

In Genesis 27, four people illustrate Sinatra’s song. Isaac does things his way by trying to bestow the family blessing on Esau, in opposition to God’s revealed will. Esau tries to take back what he had already sold to his brother Jacob. When he is foiled, he plans to kill his brother. Rebekah deceives her aging husband into giving the blessing to her favorite son, Jacob. And Jacob lies to his father and outsmarts his brother. I think that what you have here are four self-centered people seeking their own advantage. They all did it their way, not God’s way. In the end they all came up empty and paid a high price for their selfishness.

Every person must have as a theme song in life either “I Did It My Way” or “I Did It God’s Way.” You would think that the lines would be clearly drawn: Every person outside of Christ would sing, “I Did It My Way”; every Christian would sing, “I Did It God’s Way.” But I find that many who profess to believe in Christ are really just living for themselves, often using God as the means to self-fulfillment. But the genuine Christian life is a matter of God’s confronting our self-centeredness and enthroning Christ as Lord in our hearts.

When we seek our own way, we never get what we want and we pay a high price:

(1) If we sow to the flesh, we’ll reap from the flesh. The law of sowing and reaping is as true for God’s people as it is for unbelievers. If you live for the pleasures of the flesh, you will reap from the flesh corruption (Gal. 6:7-8). If you live for the things of this world, you may get them, but you’ll be poor before God.

Some may protest: “But we’re under grace, not law!” But remember, Paul warned about sowing and reaping in the very letter where he strongly argues for the grace of God – Galatians. You can’t plant spinach and harvest sweet corn. While sin may taste sweet in your mouth, it will be bitter in your stomach and you’ll wish you had never tasted it! That’s true for believers under grace.

(2) You can’t thwart the ultimate purpose of God, so why not work with Him, not against Him? It is utter futility to fight God. It may seem as if you’re going to be able to get away with your plan. But “He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord scoffs at them” (Ps. 2:4). Man’s sin can never thwart God’s purpose. It may appear that things are not under God’s control and that the forces of evil are going to turn world history to their own ends. It’s only an illusion. Even the wrath of man will bring ultimate praise to God (Ps. 76:10). God, not man, determines history. You can either smash yourself to bits trying to fight against God or you can submit to His purpose. As the apostle Paul and millions of others can tell you, life is a lot more pleasant when you don’t kick against the goads.

(3) Godly ends do not justify wrong means. Was it God’s will to give the blessing to Jacob? Yes! Was it right for Rebekah and Jacob to gain the blessing through deception? No! Methods do matter! Wrong methods don’t become right just because they work, even when they help accomplish God’s purpose. We live in a pragmatic culture, and many Christians have bought into any method that works. Just because a marketing scheme brings people into the church does not make it right. God’s work must be done in His way.

(4) The way to find your life is to lose it for Christ’s sake. Hebrews 11:20 states: “By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even regarding things to come.” How can that be, when it seems that he was acting in the flesh? The answer is in Genesis 27:33, where a trembling Isaac realizes that he has really blessed Jacob, not Esau, as he intended. He admits, “Yes, and he shall be blessed.” At that point Isaac realized that he and Esau had been fighting against God and they had lost.

Many Christian counselors are telling hurting people, “Assert yourself! Stand up for your rights! Don’t be codependent! You’ve got a right to some happiness in life, so go for it!” But God’s Word is clear: If you seek your own way, you won’t get what you want and you’ll pay a high price in family conflict. If you’ll die to your way and seek God’s way, He will give you the desires of your heart. You’ve got to decide which will be your theme song: “I did it my way,” or, “I did it God’s way?”

Paraphrased and excerpted from:
*https://bible.org/seriespage/lesson-52-my-way-or-god-s-way-genesis-271-46

I Did It His Way

Yes, all the times, I’m sure You knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all when there was doubt
Down on my knees, I would call out
You faced it all
And stood me tall
I did it Your way
Oh no, oh no, not me
I did it Your way

For what is a man, what has he got?
He’s full of sin and he has naught
I say the things I truly feel
Respectful words of one who kneels
The record shows
You took the blows
I did it Your way

Yes, it was Your way

All In His Hands

Men are weak in this life, lacking strength.
We must lean on the LORD’s strong right arm.
He, all-knowing, will work things for good
And, best of all, keep our soul from harm.

Trust in His timing. Wait for the LORD.
Though man’s troubles lie heavy on him,
There’s times and ways for everything,
Even when the days seem dark and grim.

Read His Word. Count on His promises,
Everything He said will come true.
He’ll deliver you from all your fears,
And give His joy and His peace to you.

Wait for His answers, He’ll give you strength,
All you who put your hope in the LORD.
You’ll mount up with wings like eagles,
And run, not tiring, your strength restored.

Believe in all His miracles,
Everything is possible with Him.
For though a loss is certain with man,
With God it will become a big win.

Rejoice in His goodness all the day,
Proclaiming His love in the morning.
Pray with songs and Psalms through the day,
Recall His faithfulness in the evening.

Relax in His presence, be still and know,
Though outside it rages with storm.
Within your heart you know He is Lord,
And He holds you in peace, safe and warm.

Hear His call and come near to God,
Come near and He will come near to you.
Whatever besets you in this life,
He holds your hand and will see you through.

Seek His Face

The days drag on, trudge slowly past;
The night brings sleep, restless and light.
The new day, yet still hours away,
Awake, but not.  Nothing feels right.

A darkness is here, all around,
A world turned sour, a bitter taste.
Menace and malice rule the day;
What goodness remains, turned to waste.

These feelings belie Christian hope.
Thoughts stray away from promised goals
That God has given us to see
As the journey’s end for our souls.

Our fallen, broken world reveals
Not the forest, but trees, diseased,
Though we see a much different sight,
When we look upward from our knees.

We seek God for worship and praise,
And catch small glimpses of His face.
He knows our needs better than we,
And fills us with his mercy and grace.

We’re on earth but for a short while,
And see through a glass, dark and dim.
From those things we see and endure,
We learn and grow to be like Him.

As we look toward our journey’s end,
We see the forest, not the trees;
The dwelling place Christ has prepared,
Full of wonders we can’t conceive.

Remember now, we’re on this earth,
Living but for a flash in time,
Yearning to hear in eternity
“Welcome, beloved, children of mine.”

We’ll persevere; we’ll keep the faith;
We’ll run the race, and win the prize.
We’ll be with God for eternity,
And see Christ’s face before our eyes.

3-18-20 Midweek Musings

3 rd Sunday of Lent
March 15, 2020

“Complaints, or Trust?”

Exodus 17:3-7
Romans 5:1…8
John 4:5…42

My Brothers and Sisters in the Lord –

One of the things we can say about most of us in the Western World is that we are seldom, if ever, truly satisfied. We always seem to want more. We want things to be better. We are always seeking the new, the different, the more desirable. Often, we confuse wants with needs – and spend money on the wrong things.

When things don’t go our way, we begin to complain. We complain to friends, to those who are close to us – and, often, we even complain to God!

However, in all of our wanting and complaining, we usually forget how fortunate we are in so many ways. There are always others who have much less than we have – others who are far worse off than ourselves, whether physically, emotionally, or economically. We also forget the many blessings that we, sadly, take for granted!

So, how do we extricate ourselves from this downward spiral of negativity? How do we become grateful – and more accepting of our lot in life or of our particular place in the world today? Fortunately, the scriptures for this Sunday give us a great deal of direction in this regard.

When the Chosen People, in the desert, grumbled and complained against Moses, they were really angry with God. Although they were believers, they really had no personal relationship with God. They were seriously lacking in faith and trust. They did not truly know God at all in any personal way. They were too absorbed in their daily lives and with the challenges of living to pay much attention to God.

They had forgotten all the blessings that were theirs – all that God had done for them – Deliverance from slavery in Egypt – Salvation from Pharaoh’s army – The Manna, the quail, the preservation in the desert! Consequently, when faced with a new hardship, they grumbled and complained – instead of trusting in God and offering prayers based on faith and trust!

In the Gospel selection, the Samaritan woman came to the well in the heat of the day, when no one, usually, was around because she was ashamed of who and what she had become. No doubt, she couldn’t believe her ears when Jesus asked her for a drink. However, she must have kept her relationship with God alive, despite her sinful situation. Although she resisted Jesus at first, she, gradually, opened herself to all that he had to say.

Jesus had a spiritual, life-giving water! This water would completely transform the hearts and souls of anyone who entered into a relationship with him. What Jesus had to share was grace – freedom and deliverance from all the wants and desires that distract us from who we really are and what God wants each of us to become. Jesus offers a new way of living here in this life. This new way leads to an eternal life with him and with the Godhead after this life is over!

As Jesus reached out to the Samaritans, so, too, does he reach out to us. He wants a relationship with each of us despite all of our mistakes, failings, and sins. He asks us to trust in him and in God’s unfolding plan for us.

This is the reason St. Paul writes that we can have peace with God through all that Jesus has done for us. We even have God’s love poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who has been given to us!

So, Brothers and Sisters, far from complaining, we should look deeper into our hearts and lives to discover, once again, all that God has done and continues to do for us. It doesn’t matter if our wants go unfulfilled – It doesn’t matter that we suffer because of others and because of the hardships of life. It doesn’t matter that our life here ends in death! What really matters is our faith and trust in God’s ultimate plan for us. What really matters is that we grow in faith – in our relationship with God through Jesus. What really matters is that we remain faithful to God even in our darkest hours and when others no longer hope!

So, let us praise God and give thanks to Him who has done so much for us and given us salvation in and through His Son, Jesus!

Amen.

March 15, 2020 Msgr. Russell G. Terra
Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Redding, CA
*http://www.stjosephredding.org/parish-homilies.html