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Psalm 138 Increase my strength of soul, O Lord .... Strength of body requires good food, exercise, rest and opportunity to breathe in fresh air and sunshine. Similarly strength of soul requires good helpings of the Word of God (scripture), mind-full thinking, speaking and actions, the deep rest of trusting in God no matter what challenges arise, and opportunity to breathe in the goodness of the Holy Spirit of Jesus. Am I as committed to strength of soul as I am to health and beauty of body? Increase my strength of soul, O Lord. I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart... for your steadfast love and your faithfulness. (Psalm 138:1-2) Soli gloriam dei .
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Zechariah 8:1-8
How can it be possible for a city that lies in ruins to be rebuilt, or a life that seems set aside to be fruitful? The prophet Zechariah preached the restoration of Jerusalem, and it occurred within a hundred years of his prophecy. Jesus said that he came that we might have life, and have it more abundantly (John 10:10) ; that when we are rooted and grounded in him as the True Vine, we bring forth good fruit. How can this be possible? “Even though it seems impossible to the remnant of this people [this person] in these days, should it be impossible to me?” says the Lord of hosts. Holy Spirit, remind me and help me recognize (re-call to mind) that all things good are possible to God. Fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose, near restful waters he leads me. (Psalm 23). Let us have no desire to choose our own path, but walk in those which God may be pleased to present to us. St. Vincent de Paul Soli ad gloriam dei. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+4%3A7-15&version=NRSVCE
2 Corinthians 4:7-15 & Luke 9:23-26 A clay pot cracks easily, just as we human beings easily 'crack' or gain many flaws and weaknesses along life's way. This is not a bad thing! As my hard exterior cracks, so the ‘wine’ of Jesus’ presence in me can leak out and be visible to others. It is often through ‘embarrassing moments’ – overflowing tears of sadness, the need to ask for help or to depend on others, yet another job opportunity that does not work out, or an outburst of Joy at having discovered the Lord's gentle or unusual touch of love in difficult circumstances - that God’s grace has visibly touched others along my life’s path. This is possible only as much as I allow Jesus’ love to heal and strengthen me. Christ Jesus, extend your grace to others through me. We have this treasure in clay vessels, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. (2Corinthians 4:7) Soli ad gloriam dei. Haggai 2:1-9
How often have I, like the Israelites of old, been tempted to descend into the sinkhole of despair when problems seem insurmountable, plans are not attainable, and possibilities appear to be exhausted. But God speaks into our hearts, “Do not be afraid!”, “Do not fear”, “Do not be anxious”, “Take courage!”. Why? Because he is with us. “Do not be afraid,” said Jesus to his disciples before ascending into heaven, “Remember: I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matt 28:20). As I picture Jesus, the Son of God, with his hand on my shoulder, I am able to breathe in his presence and feel my heart steady to beat in rhythm with his. Christ Jesus, remind me to have courage because you are with me. O send your light and your truth; let them lead me. (Psalm 43: 3) Be wise, my soul, and trust in God alone, cling to God and cast your cares on God. St. Robert Bellarmine Haggai 1:1-8
Holy Spirit, help me keep my soul in good repair as your dwelling place... Just as the Israelites in Haggai’s day kept putting off the fixing up of the temple in Jerusalem, we so often delay the restoration of our inner being, as a dwelling place of the Spirit of Jesus. In my busy life, I can become lax in seeking the inner healing from Jesus that I require to keep my dwelling of the Holy Spirit clean and pure, in good repair emotionally and spiritually, and ‘weather tight’ from the emotional ups and downs experienced along this life’s journey. Am I keeping up on my ‘housework’, and the maintenance of mind, heart, soul and strength? Holy Spirit help me keep my soul in good repair as your dwelling place. Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice; turn to the Lord and his strength; constantly seek his face. (Psalm 104) Note that the Church provides the healing sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Communion, and the Anointing of the Sick. |
AuthorBeverly Illauq lives in Kemptville, Ontario, where she greets each morning by seeking the Gospel Mystery of the Day - the Word of the Lord for direct and practical application to the specific challenges & joys of the day. Archives
March 2024
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