A Daily Spiritual Seed

Weekend Edition - A Daily Spiritual Seed

2014-02-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

Book/Resource of the Week

Prayers from Chautauqua, by Joan Brown Campbell. The Pilgrim Press, 2013.
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/0829819851/?tag=christianspiritu

Sister Joan Chittister gives the forward for this book of prayers and encourages the readers to take to heart the many themes of prayer of supplication and praise to God.

This book is a spiritual treasure for persons of every denomination, culture, and way of life. Campbell seems to touch the feelings and desires of every heart of humankind. She has themes of peace-making, world-healing, and just plain everyday living. Her writing exhibits beauty, religion, and a deep sense of spirituality. It seems that Campbell has insight into the most intricate sentiments of the human heart, and she offers prayers that fit these sentiments.

Campbell shows a deep knowledge of the modern world, and recognizes the many pitfalls that humans need to steer away from, supplying prayers that seem to fit any and every occasion of sin or the practice of virtue. Her prayers are sure to give one a sense of peace and good will. All nations, all peoples will find comfort and challenge in these prayers.

In every prayer, Campbell is well aware of the influence of Scripture as she directs her prayers to the God of all comfort. These prayers come from her heart and are directed to the heart of God by way of the needs of humanity. Her aim is to bring congregations together in a spirit of gratitude for creation, respect for human diversity, and the ever persistent pursuit of justice.

One person who reviewed this book suggests that he uses one of these prayers to begin each day.

Gracious God, you are generous beyond our capacity to comprehend. Yet in our own limited way, we grasp the meaning of generosity, of boundless love, and the power of your eternal embrace. You call us out of ourselves into a world of need and possibility. So to us the gifted and the strong, God’s call comes down through the ages. We hear the words of teachers, preachers, prophets, and disciples, who remind us that unto whom much is given, much is required. On this night we honor all who have heard the call, all who have responded faithfully and courageously with unbounded generosity. …May we become a beacon of hope in a war-weary world. Amen

(Thanks to Sr. Irene Hartman OP for this review.)

Recent youtube clips of our ministry staff

God: "That," "What" and "Who," by Philip St. Romain
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H89fsGhInGg

The Twelve Steps: An Overview, by Sr. Renee Dreiling OP
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OstAp7QUUQ

Weekend Readings
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

Saturday
JAS 5:13-20
PS 141:1-3, 8
MK 10:13-16

Sunday
IS 49:14-15
PS 62:2-3, 6-9
1 COR 4:1-5
MT 6:24-34

Spiritual Guidance
- http://shalomplace.com/direction

Need a companion for the spiritual journey?

Consultations and spiritual direction available.

Saint of the Week
- http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx

St. John Joseph of the Cross (1654-1734), March 5 (Ash Wednesday)

Self-denial is never an end in itself but is only a help toward greater charity—as the life of St. John Joseph shows.

John Joseph was very ascetic even as a young man. At 16 he joined the Franciscans in Naples; he was the first Italian to follow the reform movement of St. Peter Alcantara. John Joseph’s reputation for holiness prompted his superiors to put him in charge of establishing a new friary even before he was ordained.

Obedience moved John Joseph to accept appointments as novice master, guardian and, finally, provincial. His years of mortification enabled him to offer these services to the friars with great charity. As guardian he was not above working in the kitchen or carrying the wood and water needed by the friars.

When his term as provincial expired, John Joseph dedicated himself to hearing confessions and practicing mortification, two concerns contrary to the spirit of the dawning Age of Enlightenment. John Joseph was canonized in 1839.

Affliate Web Sites
- Please give them a visit

Contemplative Ministries of the Pacific Northwest: Teaching and support on contemplative practice.
- http://www.prayeroftheheart.com/

Shalom Place: Resources on Christian spiritual living.
- http://shalomplace.com/

Inner Explorations: a vast array of spirituality resources for the mature Christian.
- http://innerexplorations.com

SeeScapes: picturing the deeper dimensions of our spirituality.
- http://www.seescapes.com/

Heartland Center for Spirituality: sponsoring Internet workshops year-round.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/

Emanuella House of Prayer: a place for prayer and silence in British Columbia.
- http://emmanuellahouse.shawwebspace.ca/

Kyrie Places of Pilgrimmage and Renewal
- http://www.kyrie.com/places/index.htm

Temenos Catholic Worker: support for homeless youth in Polk Street neighborhood, San Francisco.
- http://www.temenos.org/

The Sanctuary Foundation for Prayer: resources for spiritual growth.
- http://fromholyground.org/index.htm

Philothea.net: promoting the love of God as expressed in The First Great Commandment
- http://philothea.net/

Hearts on Fire: a blog to spark inspiration, thought, wonder, laughter and prayer.
- http://heartsonfire33.wordpress.com/

Stillpoint: Programs in spiritual direction, contemplative prayer.
- http://www.stillpointnashville.org/

The Ark: Providing a variety of scripture and lectionary study resources.
- http://theark1.com/

Reach hundreds of people who have a similar interest in Christian spirituality. Simply publish a link to Daily Spiritual Seed-- http://heartlandspirituality.org/dailyseed.html --on a prominent place on your web site and we will reciprocate with a weekly link to your site in the newsletter. Contact the Editor when you're ready to begin.

Theology Note of the Week
- http://carm.org/s

Salvation

Salvation is the "saving" of a sinner from the righteous judgment of God. When someone appeals to God and seeks forgiveness in Jesus, his sins are forgiven. He is cleansed. His relationship with God is restored, and he is made a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17). All of this is the work of God and not of man. Salvation is a free gift (Rom. 6:23).

We are saved from damnation. When anyone sins, and we all have (Rom. 3:23; 6:23), he deserves eternal separation from God (Isaiah 59:2). Yet, because of his love and mercy, God became a man (John 1:1, 14) and bore the sins of the world in his body on the cross (1 Pet. 2:24; 1 John 2:2). We are forgiven when we realize that there is nothing we can do to earn the favor of God and we put our trust in what Jesus did for us on the cross (Eph. 2:8-9; 1 Cor. 15:1-4). Only God saves. The only thing we bring to the cross is our sin.

Both God the Father (Isaiah 14:21) and Jesus (John 4:42) are called Savior, that is, deliverer from sin. Remember, it was the Father who sent the Son (1 John 4:10) to be the Savior.

Discussion Board
- http://shalomplace.org/eve/forums

Topics being discussed at this time include:

Richard Rohr's 9 stages of spiritual development
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

The demise of discussion forums
- Shalom Place Lounge forum

Apophatic Christian spirituality
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

Catholic-Evangelical Reconciliation
- Religion and Culture forum

Joke of the Week
- http://www.pacprod.com/jokes.pl

Life before computers

An application was for employment
A program was a TV show
A cursor used profanity
A keyboard was a piano!

Compress was something you did to garbage
Not something you did to a file
And if you unzipped anything in public
You'd be in jail for awhile!

Log on was adding wood to a fire
Hard drive was a long trip on the road
A mouse pad was where a mouse lived
And a backup happened to your commode!

Cut - you did with a pocket knife
Paste you did with glue
A web was a spider's home
And a virus was the flu!

I guess I'll stick to my pad and paper
And the memory in my head
I hear nobody's been killed in a computer crash
But when it happens they wish they were dead!

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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Please support this ministry with a tax-deductible donation.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-28-14

2014-02-28T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Our union with God—his presence with us, in which our aloneness is banished and the meaning and full purpose of human existence is realized—consists chiefly in a conversational relationship with God while we are each consistently and deeply engaged as his friend and collaborater in the affairs of the kingdom of the heavens.
... Dallas Willard (1935-2013), "Hearing God"

(. . . "a conversational relationship with God" . . . "as his friend" . . . today.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 5:9-12; PS 103:1-2, 3-4, 8-9, 11-12; MK 10:1-12

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

Bless the LORD, O my soul;
and all my being, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits.

He pardons all your iniquities,
he heals all your ills.
He redeems your life from destruction,
he crowns you with kindness and compassion.

Merciful and gracious is the LORD,
slow to anger and abounding in kindness.
He will not always chide,
nor does he keep his wrath forever.

For as the heavens are high above the earth,
so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far has he put our transgressions from us.

Lenten Study Series

Topic: God and I: Exploring the connections between God, Self and Ego (spiritual theology)
Learning Process: 9 written conferences; private discussion forum for participants; video conferences.
See http://shalomplace.com/inetmin/GodandI for more information and registration options.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- from Praying the Daily Gospels, by Philip St. Romain

Mark 10: 1-12 (On marriage and divorce)

In a culture that permitted a man to leave his wife for the slightest excuses (though not vice versa), Jesus' words on the seriousness of the marriage commitment were ill-received in his day. He believes, however, that love relationships cannot grow without commitment. These words shall forever be challenging.

* What is the value of commitment in a love relationship? Do you believe that God is committed to you?

* Spend time thanking God for those people in your life who are committed to loving you.

Spiritual Reading

The Dialogue of Catherine of Siena (1347-80)

"A Treatise on Discretion"

How this Bridge, having reached to Heaven on the day of the Ascension, did not for that reason have the earth.

“Wherefore, first I gave you the Bridge of My Son living and conversing in very deed amongst men, and when He, the living Bridge, left you, there remained the Bridge and the road of His doctrine, as has been said, His doctrine being joined with My power and with His wisdom, and with the clemency of the Holy Spirit. This power of Mine gives the virtue of fortitude to whoever follows this road, wisdom gives him light, so that, in this road, he may recognize the truth, and the Holy Spirit gives him love, which consumes and takes away all sensitive love out of the soul, leaving there only the love of virtue. Thus, in both ways, both actually and through His doctrine, He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life; that is, the Bridge which leads you to the height of Heaven. This is what He meant when He said, ‘I came from the Father, and I return to the Father, and shall return to you’; that is to say, My Father sent Me to you, and made Me your Bridge, so that you might be saved from the river and attain to life.’ Then He says, ‘I will return to you, I will not leave you orphans, but will send you the Paraclete’—as if My Truth should say, I will go to the Father and return; that is, that when the Holy Spirit shall come, who is called the Paraclete, He will show you more clearly, and will confirm you in the way of truth, that I have given you.’ He said that He would return, and He did return, because the Holy Spirit came not alone, but with the power of the Father, and the wisdom of the Son, and the clemency of His own Essence.

- Dictated by her to her secretaries while in a state of ecstasy. Completed in 1370.

Methods of Prayer and Reflection

Listed below are several traditional methods of prayer and reflection. As St. Frances de Sales noted, we learn to pray by praying, but it is also good to try different methods to see which seem to help facilitate connection with God. Indeed, the more we learn different methods, the better we can sense how the Spirit is moving us to pray for any given prayer time.

Lectio Divina Process

First, you choose a passage of Scripture that you will pray with. It might be the Gospel reading used in the liturgy of the day, or anything else you want. The process then follows these steps:

Reading (lectio) After settling in and quieting yourself,read the passage slowly, prayerfully. Just let it sink in for a minute or two, then read it a second time, paying closer attention to the words or phrases that speak to you.
Reflecting (meditatio) What do you hear God saying to you in this passage? What words or phrases caught your attention?
Responding (oratio) What do you want to say to God in response to what you've heard? Here you can also voice your prayers of petition, remorse, thanksgiving, praise, and so forth. If you sense God speaking to you in your thoughts, feelings or imagination, you respond as you would in any conversation.
Resting (contemplatio) If, at any time, you feel drawn to simply rest in the awareness of God's loving presence, you let yourself do so. Remain in loving silence as long as you feel comfortable, perhaps using a simple word or phrase from the Scripture passage to help deepen your openness to rest in God (see Centering Prayer method, below)

Centering Prayer

(Works best after a period of Lectio Divina, as described above; two 20 minute periods a day are recommended.)

This term, centering prayer, is of recent origin, but the method is described in many places, most notably The Cloud of Unknowing .

1. Choose a sacred word as the symbol of your intention to consent to God's presence and action within. (This can be any word.)

2. Sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly, and silently introduce the sacred word as the symbol of your consent to God's presence and action within.

3. When you become aware of thoughts, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word.

4. At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes.

Hesychast Prayer ("quiet" prayer)

(This form of contemplative practice was widely used by the fathers and mothers of the desert in the early days of Christianity and is still very popular in Eastern Christian churches. At least two 20 minute prayer periods are recommended.)

1. Sit quietly, with back straight and hands resting in the lap, palms up.

2. Lovingly introduce into your mind the prayer, "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me." (Note: this may be shortened as the prayer proceeds).

3. Let this prayer move in synchrony with your breath, praying the first part with your inhalation, the second with exhalation.

4. When distracting thoughts attempt to break in, persist with the Jesus Prayer. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, however.

Practice of this prayer may lead to feelings of warmth in the heart and perception of inner light. Enjoy. . .

Praying With Scripture (Benedictine Approach)

1. Relax. Settle in. Be aware that God is here, now, loving you.

2. Read a short passage of Scripture as though God were speaking directly to you in it.

3. Choose a phrase from the passage that strikes you and repeat it slowly, prayerfully, non-analytically.

4. When your heart is full, express to God the needs and sentiments awakened by your meditation. When you're done, read another passage and repeat steps 3 and 4.

5. If, at any time, you feel moved to simply be present to God in loving silence, put the Scripture aside and rest in God.

Review of the Day
- from, Handbook for Spiritual Directees

Here is a practice used by many at the end of the day to see what lessons can be learned and how God was present and active through the day. Set aside fifteen to twenty minutes at the end of the day for prayer and review of your day. A suggested format is described below:.

1. Take a few moments of quiet. Breathe deeply. Ask God to help you see yourself as you truly were during the day.

2. Look back over your day - not to see what you did wrong but to honestly acknowledge what was going on with you and others.
* What happened? What did I do today?
* How did I feel? Why did I feel that way?
* Were my expectations and beliefs reasonable?

3. Affirm the healthy things you recognize.

4. Admit to yourself and God the unhealthy things. Ask God's forgiveness, believe it is yours, then decide if you need to apologize or make amends.

5. Use creative visualization to grow stronger. Honestly acknowledge the troubling situations of the day. See and feel yourself acting honestly and lovingly in these situations. Ask God for the grace to help you act in this new way.

6. Close with simple awareness of the sights and sounds around you, grateful for the good things in your life.

This process can be undertaken as a daily journal exercise or by prayerfully reviewing your day in your own mind. I like to take a walk before bedtime for examen. The important thing is to do it. It is a discipline, to be sure, but a very important one.

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

- - - -

Please support this ministry with a tax-deductible donation.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-27-14

2014-02-27T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Make sure that you let God’s grace work in your souls by accepting whatever He gives you, and giving Him whatever He takes from you. True holiness consists in doing God’s will with a smile.
- Mother Teresa of Calcutta, (1910-1997), "A Gift for God: Prayers and Meditations"

(Be of good cheer this day. It is a choice we can make, to some extent.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 5:1-6; PS 49:14-20; MK 9:41-50

R. Blessed are the poor in spirit; the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!

This is the way of those whose trust is folly,
the end of those contented with their lot:
Like sheep they are herded into the nether world;
death is their shepherd and the upright rule over them.

Quickly their form is consumed;
the nether world is their palace.
But God will redeem me
from the power of the nether world by receiving me.

Fear not when a man grows rich,
when the wealth of his house becomes great,
For when he dies, he shall take none of it;
his wealth shall not follow him down.

Though in his lifetime he counted himself blessed,
“They will praise you for doing well for yourself,”
He shall join the circle of his forebears
who shall never more see light.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

Paul the Apostle reminds us that we are called to be "the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life" (2 Corinthians 2:15-16 ). The Lord Jesus wants the fragrance of his love and righteousness to permeate our lives, thoughts, speech, and actions. Do you allow the fragrance of Christ's love and truth to permeate your relationships and circle of influence, especially among your family, friends, and neighbors?

"Lord Jesus, fill me with the fragrance of your love and truth that I may radiate the joy and peace of the gospel wherever I go and with whomever I meet."

Spiritual Reading

The Cloud of Unknowing, by Anonymous (late 14th C.)
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/ 0385030975/?tag=christianspiritu
(Link to the translation by William Johnson, S.J., which is easier to read than the public domain translation below).

How God will answer and purvey for them in spirit, that for business about His love list not answer nor purvey for themselves

AND truly an we will lustily conform our love and our living, inasmuch as in us is, by grace and by counsel, unto the love and the living of Mary, no doubt but He shall answer on the same manner now for us ghostly each day, privily in the hearts of all those that either say or think against us. I say not but that evermore some men shall say or think somewhat against us, the whiles we live in the travail of this life, as they did against Mary. But I say, an we will give no more heed to their saying nor to their thinking, nor no more cease of our ghostly privy work for their words and their thoughts, than she did—I say, then, that our Lord shall answer them in spirit, if it shall be well with them that so say and so think, that they shall within few days have shame of their words and their thoughts.

- Chapter 23

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

- - - -

Please support this ministry with a tax-deductible donation.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-26-14

2014-02-26T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

A man’s personality actuates and quickens his whole body. If anyone said it was unsuitable for the man’s power to be in the toe, he would be thought silly, because, while granting that a man penetrates and actuates the whole of his body, he denied his presence in the part. Similarly, no one who admits the presence of the Word of God in the universe as a whole should think it unsuitable for a single human body to be by Him actuated and enlightened.
- St. Athanasius (293-373), "The Incarnation of the Word of God" [4th century]

(Christ fills the universe and all its parts [Eph. 1:23] -- you being one such. Let this awareness stay with you this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 4:13-17; PS 49:2-3, 6-7, 8-10, 11; MK 9:38-40

R. Blessed are the poor in spirit; the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!

Hear this, all you peoples;
hearken, all who dwell in the world,
Of lowly birth or high degree,
rich and poor alike.

Why should I fear in evil days
when my wicked ensnarers ring me round?
They trust in their wealth;
the abundance of their riches is their boast.

Yet in no way can a man redeem himself,
or pay his own ransom to God;
Too high is the price to redeem one’s life; he would never have enough
to remain alive always and not see destruction.

For he can see that wise men die,
and likewise the senseless and the stupid pass away,
leaving to others their wealth.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

Every one in need has a claim on us because they are dear to God who created them in his own image and likeness (Genesis 1:26-27). God created us in love for love. We are most free and happy when we love as he loves. The love and charitable help we show to our neighbor also expresses the gratitude we have for the abundant mercy and kindness of God towards us. Jesus declared that any kindness shown and any help given to those in need would not lose its reward. Jesus never refused to give to anyone in need who asked for his help. As his disciples we are called to be kind and generous as he is. Are you grateful for God’s mercy and kindness towards you and are you ready to show that same kindness and generosity towards your neighbor?

Gregory of Nyssa, an early church father (330-395 AD), comments on this passage: “God never asks his servants to do what is impossible. The love and goodness of his Godhead is revealed as richly available. It is poured out like water upon all. God furnished to each person according to his will the ability to do something good. None of those seeking to be saved will be lacking in this ability, given by the one who said: ‘whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ, will by no means lose his reward’” (Mark 9:41). Ask the Lord Jesus to increase your generosity in doing good for others.

"Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit that I may radiate the joy of the gospel to others. May your light and truth shine through me that others may find new life and freedom from sin and the corruption of evil."

Spiritual Reading

The Way of Perfection, by St. Teresa of Avila
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1456569856/?tag=christianspiritu

Continues the description of a method for recollecting the thoughts. Describes means of doing this. This chapter is very profitable for those who are beginning prayer.

You will ask me, sisters, how you can possibly do all this, and say that, if you had seen His Majesty with your bodily eyes at the time when He lived in the world, you would have done it willingly and gazed at Him for ever. Do not believe it: anyone who will not make the slight effort necessary for recollection in order to gaze upon this Lord present within her, which she can do without danger and with only the minimum of trouble, would have been far less likely to stand at the foot of the Cross with the Magdalen, who looked death (as they say) straight in the face. What the glorious Virgin and this blessed saint must have suffered! What threats, what malicious words, what shocks, what insults! For the people they were dealing with were not exactly polite to them. No, indeed; theirs was the kind of courtesy you might meet in hell, for they were the ministers of the devil himself. Yet, terrible as the sufferings of these women must have been, they would not have noticed them in the presence of pain so much greater.

- Chapter 26

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

- - - -

Please support this ministry with a tax-deductible donation.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-25-14

2014-02-25T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

He, who begins by loving Christianity, better than truth, will proceed by loving his own sect or church better than Christianity, and end in loving himself better than all.
- Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834), "Aids to Reflection"

(What stirs in you as you read this? What is revealed to you about yourself in the stirring?)

JAS 4:1-10; PS 55:7-8, 9-10A, 10B-11A, 23; MK 9:30-37

R. Throw your cares on the Lord, and he will support you.

And I say, “Had I but wings like a dove,
I would fly away and be at rest.
Far away I would flee;
I would lodge in the wilderness.”

“I would wait for him who saves me
from the violent storm and the tempest.”
Engulf them, O Lord; divide their counsels.

In the city I see violence and strife,
day and night they prowl about upon its walls.

Cast your care upon the LORD,
and he will support you;
never will he permit the just man to be disturbed.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/daily.html

. . . When Jesus finds out that his own people have been ignoring his teaching and instead fighting with each other over importance, he gives a lesson on what is important. He says that the greatest is not the richest or most powerful, the greatest is the most helpful: the opposite of the one at the top. He brings in a child – the least powerful, most vulnerable – someone who can give no benefit but requires the most help. And he says whoever helps a child, the least important of people, will be receiving Jesus and God himself.

Instead of hating each other, we should be loving God, and the best way to love God is to love his people. What better way to show God our appreciation than to appreciate and respect, even love, his creation. Loving each other, treating each other decently – even the poor, especially the poor – is the best way to have satisfaction in our lives. Those who love the lowest, least important people, those who give with no expectation of benefit, will receive the greatest benefit. The things of the world are not the most satisfying, but the love of God can satisfy all.

- by Tami Whitney

Spiritual Reading

Selected Quotes from St. John of the Cross on the Journey of the Soul to God by Contemplation - from Living Flame of Love
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/ 1602064296/?tag=christianspiritu

Stanza 3. #31. If formerly it sought sweetness and fervor, and found it, now it much neither seek it nor desire it, for not only will it be unable to ﬁnd it through its own diligence, but it will rather ﬁnd aridity, for it turns from the quiet and peaceful blessings which were secretly given it its spirit, to the work that it desires to do with sense; and thus it will lose one and not obtain the other, since no blessings are now given to it by means of sense as they were formerly. God secretly and quietly infuses into the soul loving knowledge and wisdom without any intervention of speciﬁc acts. And the soul has then to walk with loving advertence to God, without making speciﬁc actrs, but conducting itself passively, and making no efforts of its own, but preserving this simple, pure and loving advertence.

- compiled by James and Tyra Arraj

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Message of 2-24-14

2014-02-24T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

The Present is the point at which Time touches Eternity. Of the present moment, and of it only, humans have an experience analogous to the experience which [God] has of reality as a whole; in it alone, freedom and actuality are offered them. He would therefore have them continually concerned either with Eternity (which means being concerned with Him) or with the Present—either meditating on their eternal union with, or separation from, Himself; or else obeying the present voice of conscience, bearing the present cross, receiving the present grace, giving thanks for the present pleasure.
- C. S. Lewis (1898-1963), "The Screwtape Letters"

(Be here now in love this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 3:13-18; PS 19:8, 9, 10, 15; MK 9:14-29

R. The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.

The law of the LORD is perfect,
refreshing the soul;
The decree of the LORD is trustworthy,
giving wisdom to the simple.

The precepts of the LORD are right,
rejoicing the heart;
The command of the LORD is clear,
enlightening the eye.

The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever;
The ordinances of the LORD are true,
all of them just.

Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heart
find favor before you,
O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.preacherexchange.com/daily_bread.htm

I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so.

The disciples’ failure to drive out demons initially casts a negative light on Jesus. It appears as if he hasn’t properly prepared them to continue his healing ministry, or worse, that the claims of his miraculous power are exaggerated. While Jesus finds fault in the disciples’ lack of faith and prayer, we also note their lack of faith in themselves. The disciples lack trust in God’s power to work through them. They cannot fathom that they have the ability to perform miracles. The Lord calls us to trust that in his name, we can work wonders.

To see ourselves as God sees us, we pray.

Spiritual Reading

The Book of Supreme Truth, by St. John Rusybroeck (1293-1381)

Behold, I have said this: that the contemplative lover of God is united with God through means, and also without means, and thirdly, without difference or distinction; and this I find in nature, and in grace, and also in glory. Further I have said that never creature may be or become so holy that it loses its created being and becomes God; even the soul of our Lord Jesus Christ shall ever remain creature, and other than God. Yet, none the less, we must all be lifted up above ourselves into God, and become one spirit with God in love; and then we shall be blessed. And therefore mark my words and my meaning, and understand me aright as to what is the condition and the way to our eternal blessedness.

- Chapter 2: A short repetition of all the highest teachings written by the author.

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Weekend Edition - A Daily Spiritual Seed

2014-02-21T12:30:00.000-08:00

Book/Resource of the Week

Only Love Can Save Us: Letters, Homilies and Talks of Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio (now Pope Francis). Our Sunday Visitor, 2013.
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/161278741X/?tag=christianspiritu

Here are one hundred fifty pages of inspirational reading from the pen of the present Pope Francis, written when he was Cardinal in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is no surprise that his main theme is his consistent love for the poor and joy in Christ as he covers these topics: marriage, prayer, faith, education, evangelization, the elderly, the homeless, vocations, and more. His tone gives the impression that he is speaking directly to his readers. His interest in the topics he chose for this book is a portend of his attitudes as Pope.

In a homily on the “Te Deum” in May, 2012, he said, “Only the commandment of love, in all its simplicity—steady, humble, unassuming, but firm in conviction and in commitment to others –can save us.” In August of 2011, he wrote, “Love neither discriminates nor relativizes because it is open to friendship. Friends accept each other as they are and tell each other the truth. It is also communitarian in nature. It impels individuals to accompany, to align themselves with, and to work next to their fellow citizens. It is the basis for social friendship and respect for differences.” In September of 2008, Cardinal Bergoglio wrote, “Establishing love is a work of skillful craftsmanship, the work of patient people, people who do their utmost to listen, to bring people together. This skillful work is carried out peacefully and wonderfully by creators of love. “

After reading only one chapter, readers will “fall in love” with the Cardinal’s writing style. Cardinal Bergoglio speaks of children as his brothers and sisters, not members of an agency. He acknowledges the elderly in need of a “voice for the voiceless”. He discusses the “social debt” as “deprivations which greatly endanger the sustainability of life, human dignity, and opportunities that will enable people to flourish”. During Lent, he says “all are invited to a journey that includes the cross and self-denial, a journey that may be uncomfortable but not fruitless”. On the feast of the Annunciation, he says that, “this is the day that God began his journey with us.”

What blessings readers are given in this small book by Cardinal Bergoglio!

(Thanks to Sr. Irene Hartman OP for this review.)

Weekend Readings
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

Saturday
1 PT 5:1-4
PS 23:1-6
MT 16:13-19

Sunday
LV 19:1-2, 17-18
PS 103:1-4, 8, 10, 12-13
1 COR 3:16-23
MT 5:38-48

Spiritual Guidance
- http://shalomplace.com/direction

Need a companion for the spiritual journey?

Consultations and spiritual direction available.

Saint of the Week
- http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx

St. Polycarp (d. 156), February 23

Polycarp, bishop of Smyrna (modern Izmir, Turkey), disciple of St. John the Apostle and friend of St. Ignatius of Antioch was a revered Christian leader during the first half of the second century.

St. Ignatius, on his way to Rome to be martyred, visited Polycarp at Smyrna, and later at Troas wrote him a personal letter. The Asia Minor Churches recognized Polycarp’s leadership by choosing him as a representative to discuss with Pope Anicetus the date of the Easter celebration in Rome—a major controversy in the early Church.

Only one of the many letters written by Polycarp has been preserved, the one he wrote to the Church of Philippi in Macedonia.

At 86, Polycarp was led into the crowded Smyrna stadium to be burned alive. The flames did not harm him and he was finally killed by a dagger. The centurion ordered the saint’s body burned. The “Acts” of Polycarp’s martyrdom are the earliest preserved, fully reliable account of a Christian martyr’s death. He died in 156.

Affliate Web Sites
- Please give them a visit

Shalom Place: Resources on Christian spiritual living.
- http://shalomplace.com/

Inner Explorations: a vast array of spirituality resources for the mature Christian.
- http://innerexplorations.com

SeeScapes: picturing the deeper dimensions of our spirituality.
- http://www.seescapes.com/

Heartland Center for Spirituality: sponsoring Internet workshops year-round.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/

Emanuella House of Prayer: a place for prayer and silence in British Columbia.
- http://emmanuellahouse.shawwebspace.ca/

Kyrie Places of Pilgrimmage and Renewal
- http://www.kyrie.com/places/index.htm

Temenos Catholic Worker: support for homeless youth in Polk Street neighborhood, San Francisco.
- http://www.temenos.org/

The Sanctuary Foundation for Prayer: resources for spiritual growth.
- http://fromholyground.org/index.htm

Philothea.net: promoting the love of God as expressed in The First Great Commandment
- http://philothea.net/

Hearts on Fire: a blog to spark inspiration, thought, wonder, laughter and prayer.
- http://heartsonfire33.wordpress.com/

Stillpoint: Programs in spiritual direction, contemplative prayer.
- http://www.stillpointnashville.org/

The Ark: Providing a variety of scripture and lectionary study resources.
- http://theark1.com/

Contemplative Ministries of the Pacific Northwest: Teaching and support on contemplative practice.
- http://www.prayeroftheheart.com/

Reach hundreds of people who have a similar interest in Christian spirituality. Simply publish a link to Daily Spiritual Seed-- http://heartlandspirituality.org/dailyseed.html --on a prominent place on your web site and we will reciprocate with a weekly link to your site in the newsletter. Contact the Editor when you're ready to begin.

Theology Note of the Week
- http://carm.org/s

Saint

A saint is a very holy person with a special anointing from God. The word "saint" comes from the Greek "hagio" which means holy ones. Christians are holy because of the work of Christ. In the New Testament the word occurs numerous times (Rom. 1:7; 1 Cor. 1:2; 2 Cor. 1:1; Eph. 1:1, etc) and is a designation of Christians.

The Bible speaks of saints in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament it is found such verses as Psalm 16:3, 132:9. Sometimes it is translated as "godly ones."

In Roman Catholicism it is someone who has been dead for many years and has been canonized by the Catholic Church.

Discussion Board
- http://shalomplace.org/eve/forums

Topics being discussed at this time include:

Richard Rohr's 9 stages of spiritual development
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

The demise of discussion forums
- Shalom Place Lounge forum

Snippets from the Hard Copy (on universal reconciliation)
- Recommended Resources forum

Apophatic Christian spirituality
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

Catholic-Evangelical Reconciliation
- Religion and Culture forum

Joke of the Week
- http://www.pacprod.com/jokes.pl

The magician and the parrot

A magician was working on a cruise ship in the Caribbean. The audience would be different each week, so the magician allowed himself to do the same tricks over and over again.

There was only one problem: The captain's parrot saw the shows every week and began to understand what the magician did in every trick. Once he understood that, he started shouting in the middle of the show.

"Look, it's not the same hat!" "Look, he's hiding the flowers under the table!" "Hey, why are all the cards the Ace of Spades?"

The magician was furious but couldn't do anything, it was the captain's parrot after all.

One day the ship had an accident and sank. The magician found himself on a piece of wood, in the middle of the ocean, and of course the parrot was by his side.

They stared at each other with hate, but did not utter a word. This went on for several days.

After a week the parrot finally said, "Okay, I give up. What'd you do with the boat?"

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
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Message of 2-21-14

2014-02-21T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

From my years’ experience I can unhesitatingly say that the Cross bears those who bear the Cross
... Sadhu Sundar Singh (1889-1929)

(The only thing worse than having a cross is resisting it. Invite God to be with and guide your in your struggles and hardships this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 2:14-24, 26; PS 112:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; MK 8:34-9:1

R. Blessed the one who greatly delights in the Lord’s commands.

Blessed the one who fears the LORD,
who greatly delights in his commands.
His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth;
the upright generation shall be blessed.

Wealth and riches shall be in his house;
his generosity shall endure forever.
Light shines through the darkness for the upright;
he is gracious and merciful and just.

Well for the one who is gracious and lends,
who conducts his affairs with justice;
He shall never be moved;
the just one shall be in everlasting remembrance.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- from Praying the Daily Gospels, by Philip St. Romain

Mark 8: 34 - 9:1 (The way of the cross)

Following the way of loving service will not always be easy, Jesus promises. But those who persevere in love, even through times of suffering, will become a new creation.

What does the cross mean to you? How do you experience it in your life?
What does it mean to "lose your life" for the sake of the gospel?

Spiritual Reading

The Dialogue of Catherine of Siena (1347-80)

"A Treatise on Discretion"

How this Bridge, having reached to Heaven on the day of the Ascension, did not for that reason have the earth.

“This much I have said to you in order that there might be no cloud of darkness in the mind of your hearers, that is, that they may know that of this Body of Christ I made a Bridge by the union of the divine with the human nature, for this is the truth.

“This Bridge, taking its point of departure in you, rose into Heaven, and was the one road which was taught you by the example and life of the Truth. What has now remained of all this, and where is the road to be found? I will tell you, that is, I will rather tell those who might fall into ignorance on this point. I tell you that this way of His doctrine, of which I have spoken to you, confirmed by the Apostles, declared by the blood of the martyrs, illuminated by the light of doctors, confessed by the confessors, narrated in all its love by the Evangelists, all of whom stand as witnesses to confess the Truth, is found in the mystical body of the Holy Church. These witnesses are like the light placed on a candlestick, to show forth the way of the Truth which leads to life with a perfect light, as I have said to you, and, as they themselves say to you, with proof, since they have proved in their own cases, that every person may, if he will, be illuminated to know the Truth, unless he choose to deprive his reason of light by his inordinate self-love. It is, indeed, the truth that His doctrine is true, and has remained like a lifeboat to draw the soul out of the tempestuous sea and to conduct her to the port of salvation.

- Dictated by her to her secretaries while in a state of ecstasy. Completed in 1370.

Reading (lectio) After settling in and quieting yourself,read the passage slowly, prayerfully. Just let it sink in for a minute or two, then read it a second time, paying closer attention to the words or phrases that speak to you.
Reflecting (meditatio) What do you hear God saying to you in this passage? What words or phrases caught your attention?
Responding (oratio) What do you want to say to God in response to what you've heard? Here you can also voice your prayers of petition, remorse, thanksgiving, praise, and so forth. If you sense God speaking to you in your thoughts, feelings or imagination, you respond as you would in any conversation.
Resting (contemplatio) If, at any time, you feel drawn to simply rest in the awareness of God's loving presence, you let yourself do so. Remain in loving silence as long as you feel comfortable, perhaps using a simple word or phrase from the Scripture passage to help deepen your openness to rest in God (see Centering Prayer method, below)

Message of 2-20-14

2014-02-20T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Let God operate in thee; hand the work over to Him and do not disquiet thyself as to whether or no He is working with nature or above nature, for His are both nature and grace.
- Meister Eckhart (1260-1327), Works of Meister Eckhart

("Let God operate in thee . . .")

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 2:1-9; PS 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7; MK 8:27-33

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

I will bless the LORD at all times;
his praise shall be ever in my mouth.
Let my soul glory in the LORD;
the lowly will hear me and be glad.

Glorify the LORD with me,
let us together extol his name.
I sought the LORD, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy,
and your faces may not blush with shame.
When the poor one called out, the LORD heard,
and from all his distress he saved him.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

How different are God's thoughts and ways from our thoughts and ways! Through humiliation, suffering, and death on the cross Jesus broke the powers of sin and death and won for us our salvation. The Lord Jesus tests each of us personally with the same question: Who do you say that I am?

"Lord Jesus, I profess and believe that you are the Christ, the Son of the living God. You are my Lord and my Savior. Make my faith strong and help me to live in the victory of the cross by rejecting sin and by accepting your will."

Message of 2-19-14

2014-02-19T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
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Message of the Day

The cause of [the cessation of the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost] was not, ... “because there was no more occasion for them,” because all the world was become Christians... The real cause was, “the love of many,” almost of all Christians, so called, was “waxed cold.” The Christians had no more of the Spirit of Christ, than the other heathens. The Son of man, when he came to examine his church, could hardly “find faith upon earth.” This was the real cause, why the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost were no longer to be found in the Christian church; because the Christians were turned heathens again, and had only a dead form left.
- John Wesley (1703-1791), Sermons on Several Occasions, v. II

(Do you think Wesley's critique is still relevant today? How can you fan into flame the gifts of the Spirit in your life?)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 1:19-27; PS 15:2-5; MK 8:22-26

R. Who shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord?

He who walks blamelessly and does justice;
who thinks the truth in his heart
and slanders not with his tongue.

Who harms not his fellow man,
nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor;
By whom the reprobate is despised,
while he honors those who fear the LORD.

Who lends not his money at usury
and accepts no bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things
shall never be disturbed.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

What's worse than physical blindness? Blindness of heart and soul for sure! A blind man is led to Jesus by some of his friends. Without their help he could not have found the one who could restore his sight. Jesus understood the fears and hopes of this blind man who begged him to touch him. The blind in a special way perceive the power of touch. Jesus shows considerateness in bringing this man to a place away from the skeptics and gawkers. His sight is restored in stages as he responds to Jesus' healing touch. Mark records this remarkable miracle in three short phrases: He looked intently and was restored, and saw everything clearly. Jesus sent him home with a warning to avoid the company of those who live in spiritual darkness. Are there any blindspots in your life that cloud your vision of God and his kingdom? Allow the Lord Jesus to touch you with his grace and power that you may walk in the light of his redeeming truth and love.

"Lord Jesus, open my eyes to the revelation of your healing presence and saving word. Help me to walk according to your truth and to not stumble in the darkness of sin. May I help others find your healing light and saving presence."

Spiritual Reading

The Way of Perfection, by St. Teresa of Avila
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1456569856/?tag=christianspiritu

Continues the description of a method for recollecting the thoughts. Describes means of doing this. This chapter is very profitable for those who are beginning prayer.

"O Lord of the world, my true Spouse!" you may say to Him, if seeing Him in such a plight has filled your heart with such tenderness that you not only desire to look upon Him but love to speak to Him, not using forms of prayer, but words issuing from the compassion of your heart, which means so much to Him: "Art Thou so needy, my Lord and my Good, that Thou wilt accept poor companionship like mine? Do I read in Thy face that Thou hast found comfort, even in me? How can it be possible, Lord, that the angels are leaving Thee alone and that Thy Father is not comforting Thee?

"If Thou, Lord, art willing to suffer all this for me, what am I suffering for Thee? What have I to complain of? I am ashamed, Lord, when I see Thee in such a plight, and if in any way I can imitate Thee I will suffer all trials that come to me and count them as a great blessing. Let us go both together, Lord: whither Thou goest, I must go; through whatsoever Thou passest, I must pass." Take up this cross, sisters. . . . Think often of the weariness of His journey and of how much harder His trials were than those which you have to suffer. However hard you may imagine yours to be, and however much affliction they may cause you, they will be a source of comfort to you, for you will see that they are matters for scorn compared with the trials endured by the Lord.

- Chapter 26

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-18-14

2014-02-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

". . . whilst you shut yourself up in patience, meekness, humility, and resignation to God, you are in the very arms of Christ, your whole heart is His dwelling-place, and He lives and works in you as certainly as He lived in, and governed that body and soul, which He took from the Virgin Mary."
- William Law (1686-1761), The Spirit of Love [1752-4]

(We [you] are the body of Christ. Let Him live and work in you this day.)

JAS 1:12-18; PS 94:12-13A, 14-15, 18-19; MK 8:14-21

R. Blessed the man you instruct, O Lord.

Blessed the man whom you instruct, O LORD,
whom by your law you teach,
Giving him rest from evil days.

For the LORD will not cast off his people,
nor abandon his inheritance;
But judgment shall again be with justice,
and all the upright of heart shall follow it.

When I say, “My foot is slipping,”
your mercy, O LORD, sustains me;
When cares abound within me,
your comfort gladdens my soul.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/daily.html

“Blessed are they who persevere in temptation, for when they have been proved, will receive the crown of life.” Most of us want that crown of life, but do we want to persevere when we are being tempted by our darker side? Some of our temptations may be considered normal. For example, my desire to “have it all together” may be a desire that many of us have, yet it leads to darkness. I am not in fact perfect, and most of us humans realize that we are not perfect, at least this side of heaven. So we need to be intentional about rejecting the leaven of the Pharisees, who prided themselves on their purity and their knowledge of the law. There are many traps for me in this, as I want to practice my life of faith and be known as someone who follows Jesus. This can lead to a kind of perfectionism or thoughts of “I’m better than THAT person.” Obviously these kinds of thoughts do not come from the good Spirit, but rather from a place of feeling inadequate or fearful. Jesus invites me to be human, and acknowledge my fear and my inadequacy without comparing myself to another person.

- by Marty Kalkowski

Spiritual Reading

Selected Quotes from St. John of the Cross on the Journey of the Soul to God by Contemplation - from Living Flame of Love
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/ 1602064296/?tag=christianspiritu

Stanza 2. #9. The soul feels its love to be increasing and growing in strength and refinement to such a degree that it seems to have within it seas of ﬁre which reach to the farthest heights and depths of the spheres, filling it wholly with love.

#29. Death is the "old man," namely, the employment of the faculties -- memory, understanding and will -- and the use and occupation of them in things of the world, and the occupation of the desires in the pleasure afforded by created things. All this and the exercise of the old life, which is the death of the new, or spiritual life. In this new life, when the soul has reached the perfection of union with God, all the desires and faculties of the soul are changed into Divine operations.

#30. Understanding is now the understanding of God. The will has now been changed into the life of Divine love. The memory has in its mind the eternal years. The desire now tastes and enjoys Divine food, being now moved by the delight of God.

- compiled by James and Tyra Arraj

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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Message of 2-17-14

2014-02-17T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

One way to recollect the mind easily in the time of prayer, and preserve it more in tranquility, is not to let it wander too far at other times. You should keep it strictly in the Presence of God; and, being accustomed to think of Him often, you will find it easy to keep your mind calm in the time of prayer, or at least to recall it from its wanderings.
- Brother Lawrence (c.1605-1691), The Practice of the Presence of God.

(Taking responsibility for the thoughts we give consent to is one of the most difficult practices, and most essential.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

JAS 1:1-11; PS 119:67-68, 71-72, 75-76; MK 8:11-13

R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.

Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I hold to your promise.

You are good and bountiful;
teach me your statutes.

It is good for me that I have been afflicted,
that I may learn your statutes.

The law of your mouth is to me more precious
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

I know, O LORD, that your ordinances are just,
and in your faithfulness you have afflicted me.

Let your kindness comfort me
according to your promise to your servants.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.preacherexchange.com/daily_bread.htm

Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials.

The Letter of James is the first of the “Catholic epistles,” that is, addressed to the whole church and not to a specific community of Christians. James has one dominant theme: Christianity is not theoretical; faith must be put into practice. Within the first few lines James introduces two topics: the persecution we can expect when we practice our faith and the Gospel privileges of the poor. There is something about James that rings true when you hear his words — challenging, but deep-down true so that you want to know that joy. Such joy is available to those who live the message they profess, despite trials or temptations, convenience or inconvenience.

For hearts and minds open to the truth, we pray.

- by Paige Byrne Shortal

Spiritual Reading

The Book of Supreme Truth, by St. John Rusybroeck (1293-1381)

Certain of my friends have desired and besought me, that I should show and make plain in a few words and according to my best cunning, shortly and clearly, how I understand and feel the truth of all the highest teachings that I have written before; so that none should take offense at my words, but everyone should profit by them. And this I willingly consent to do. I will, with God's help, teach the humble who love virtue and truth; and, with the same words, I shall inwardly vex and darken the false and the proud: for to these my words will be displeasing and contrary, and this the proud cannot endure, but it provokes them to anger.

- Chapter I: Wherefore this book was written.

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Weekend Edition - A Daily Spiritual Seed

2014-02-14T13:37:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Contents:
- Book/Resource of the Week
- Weekend Readings
- Spiritual Guidance
- Saint of the Week
- Affiliate Web Sites
- Theology Note of the Week
- Discussion Board
- Joke of the Week
- Advertising and Archives
- Subscribe/Unsubscribe links. Attributions.

- - -

Book/Resource of the Week

A Travel Guide to Heaven, by Anthony DeStefano. Doubleday, 2006.
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/0385509898/?tag=christianspiritu

This is about all you ever wanted to know about that place of beauty, excitement, challenges, fun, and pure delight, namely HEAVEN. The author provides Scripture quotations to substantiate his thoughts about celebrating all the way to Heaven and thereafter. He contends that heaven is more than fluttering angel wings, harps, and haloes. DeStefano draws on a great sense of logic, fun, and adventure to produce this book of hope and promise.

You may not believe every word that DeStefano writes but you will draw inspiration from the journey he describes. In his flight plan he offers a welcome and describes the luxury accommodations suited for one’s new body. He tells about the fellow travelers who will be one’s next door neighbors in the great beyond. The author bids his readers reflect on the “eterni-ness “ of everyones’s stay.

Not to neglect those who have left behind beloved pets, dogs, cats, and caterpillars, he assures them that their pets will be easily available and so much fun. He does include angels in this book, showing how they will be excellent tour guides, so that every candidate will feel at home right from the start.

One of DeStefano’s great concerns is about what we will be doing in this magnificent place for all eternity. Will boredom soon set in? “Rest in peace” is commonly prayed for the deceased, but the author says that is very misunderstood. Peace means freedom from anxiety from stress, from suffering. Peace does not mean inactivity; it means being effectively active. One can achieve great accomplishments, the author says, but achieve these with ease and without stress. He sees heaven as a place where all our desires for accomplishment on earth can easily be effective.

The highlight of the trip will assuredly be MEETING GOD, and contemplating God forever in a vacation that never ends.

You can believe it or not. The author hopes you will enjoy his book and have fun with what he describes with so much enthusiasm.

(Thanks to Sr. Irene Hartman OP for this review.)

Weekend Readings
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

Saturday
1 KGS 12:26-32; 13:33-34
PS 106:6-7, 19-22
MK 8:1-10

Sunday
SIR 15:15-20
PS 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
1 COR 2:6-10
MT 5:17-37

Spiritual Guidance
- http://shalomplace.com/direction

Need a companion for the spiritual journey?

Consultations and spiritual direction available.

Saint of the Week
- http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx

Seven Founders of the Servite Order (13th C.), February 17

Can you imagine seven prominent men of Boston or Denver banding together, leaving their homes and professions, and going into solitude for a life directly given to God? That is what happened in the cultured and prosperous city of Florence in the middle of the 13th century. The city was torn with political strife as well as the heresy of the Cathari, who believed that physical reality was inherently evil. Morals were low and religion seemed meaningless.
In 1240 seven noblemen of Florence mutually decided to withdraw from the city to a solitary place for prayer and direct service of God. Their initial difficulty was providing for their dependents, since two were still married and two were widowers.
Their aim was to lead a life of penance and prayer, but they soon found themselves disturbed by constant visitors from Florence. They next withdrew to the deserted slopes of Monte Senario.
In 1244, under the direction of St. Peter of Verona, O.P., this small group adopted a religious habit similar to the Dominican habit, choosing to live under the Rule of St. Augustine and adopting the name of the Servants of Mary. The new Order took a form more like that of the mendicant friars than that of the older monastic Orders.
Members of the community came to the United States from Austria in 1852 and settled in New York and later in Philadelphia. The two American provinces developed from the foundation made by Father Austin Morini in 1870 in Wisconsin.
Community members combined monastic life and active ministry. In the monastery, they led a life of prayer, work and silence while in the active apostolate they engaged in parochial work, teaching, preaching and other ministerial activities.

Affliate Web Sites
- Please give them a visit

Inner Explorations: a vast array of spirituality resources for the mature Christian.
- http://innerexplorations.com

SeeScapes: picturing the deeper dimensions of our spirituality.
- http://www.seescapes.com/

Heartland Center for Spirituality: sponsoring Internet workshops year-round.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/

Emanuella House of Prayer: a place for prayer and silence in British Columbia.
- http://emmanuellahouse.shawwebspace.ca/

Kyrie Places of Pilgrimmage and Renewal
- http://www.kyrie.com/places/index.htm

Temenos Catholic Worker: support for homeless youth in Polk Street neighborhood, San Francisco.
- http://www.temenos.org/

The Sanctuary Foundation for Prayer: resources for spiritual growth.
- http://fromholyground.org/index.htm

Philothea.net: promoting the love of God as expressed in The First Great Commandment
- http://philothea.net/

Hearts on Fire: a blog to spark inspiration, thought, wonder, laughter and prayer.
- http://heartsonfire33.wordpress.com/

Stillpoint: Programs in spiritual direction, contemplative prayer.
- http://www.stillpointnashville.org/

The Ark: Providing a variety of scripture and lectionary study resources.
- http://theark1.com/

Contemplative Ministries of the Pacific Northwest: Teaching and support on contemplative practice.
- http://www.prayeroftheheart.com/

Shalom Place: Resources on Christian spiritual living.
- http://shalomplace.com/

Reach hundreds of people who have a similar interest in Christian spirituality. Simply publish a link to Daily Spiritual Seed-- http://heartlandspirituality.org/dailyseed.html --on a prominent place on your web site and we will reciprocate with a weekly link to your site in the newsletter. Contact the Editor when you're ready to begin.

Theology Note of the Week
- http://carm.org/s

Sadducee

A group of religious leaders in the Jewish religion from the second century B.C. to the first century A.D. In Hebrew their names mean "the righteous ones." They were smaller in size than the group of the Pharisees. The Sadducees were generally of the upper class, often in a priestly line, and the Pharisees in the middle class, usually merchants and tradesmen. The Sadducees accepted only the Torah, the first five books of the old Testament, as authoritative. They held rigidly to the old Testament law and denying the life after death, reward and punishment after death, the resurrection, and the existence of angels and demons. They controlled the temple and its services and were unpopular with the majority of the Jewish population.

Discussion Board
- http://shalomplace.org/eve/forums

Topics being discussed at this time include:

Richard Rohr's 9 stages of spiritual development
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

"The Rising Tide of Silence," by Thomas Keating
- Book and Movie Reviews forum

Snippets from the Hard Copy (on universal reconciliation)
- Recommended Resources forum

Apophatic Christian spirituality
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

Effects of eliminating salt, sugar, wheat and dairy
- Health and Wellness forum

Joke of the Week
- http://www.pacprod.com/jokes.pl

The race

Two natural gas company service personnel, a senior training supervisor and a young trainee, were out checking meters in a suburban neighborhood. They parked their truck at the end of an alley and worked their way to the other end.

At the last house, a woman looking out her kitchen window watched the two men as they checked her gas meter. When they finished, the senior supervisor, proud of his physical condition, challenged his younger co-worker to a foot race back to their truck.

As they approached the truck, they realized that the woman from the last house they checked was huffing and puffing right behind them. They stopped and asked her what was wrong.

Gasping for breath, she replied, "When I saw two gas men running as hard as you two were, I figured I'd better run, too!"

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

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Message of 2-14-14

2014-02-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Throughout the world, in nation after nation, men and women have died for their Christian faith. The very least we can do is live for our faith.
- Anonymous

(How might you live your faith more fully this day?)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

1 KGS 11:29-32; 12:19; PS 81:10-15; MK 7:31-37

R. I am the Lord, your God: hear my voice.

“There shall be no strange god among you
nor shall you worship any alien god.
I, the LORD, am your God
who led you forth from the land of Egypt.”

“My people heard not my voice,
and Israel obeyed me not;
So I gave them up to the hardness of their hearts;
they walked according to their own counsels.”

“If only my people would hear me,
and Israel walk in my ways,
Quickly would I humble their enemies;
against their foes I would turn my hand.”

Reflection on the Scriptures
- from Praying the Daily Gospels, by Philip St. Romain

Mark 7: 31-37 (Healing a deaf man)

Again we see Jesus encouraging people to be silent regarding a miracle. To Jesus, miracles are signs of the presence of God in our midst, and he does not want this to be misinterpreted on account of sensationalism.

Is there anyone you know who needs to hear words of love from you but has not because of your hesitation to reach out?
Hear Jesus saying, "Ephphatha! Be opened!" To what do you need to be more open?

Spiritual Reading

The Dialogue of Catherine of Siena (1347-80)

"A Treatise on Discretion"

How this Bridge, having reached to Heaven on the day of the Ascension, did not for that reason have the earth.

“When My only-begotten Son returned to Me, forty days after the resurrection, this Bridge, namely Himself, arose from the earth, that is, from among the conversation of men, and ascended into Heaven by virtue of the Divine Nature and sat at the right hand of Me, the Eternal Father, as the angels said, on the day of the Ascension, to the disciples, standing like dead men, their hearts lifted on high, and ascended into Heaven with the wisdom of My Son—’Do not stand here any longer, for He is seated at the right hand of the Father!’ When He, then, had thus ascended on high, and returned to Me the Father, I sent the Master, that is the Holy Spirit, who came to you with My power and the wisdom of My Son, and with His own clemency, which is the essence of the Holy Spirit. He is one thing with Me, the Father, and with My Son. And He built up the road of the doctrine which My Truth had left in the world. Thus, though the bodily presence of My Son left you, His doctrine remained, and the virtue of the stones founded upon this doctrine, which is the way made for you by this Bridge. For first, He practiced this doctrine and made the road by His actions, giving you His doctrine by example rather than by words; for He practiced, first Himself, what He afterwards taught you, then the clemency of the Holy Spirit made you certain of the doctrine, fortifying the minds of the disciples to confess the truth, and to announce this road, that is, the doctrine of Christ crucified, reproving, by this means, the world of its injustice and false judgment, of which injustice and false judgment, I will in time discourse to you at greater length.

- Dictated by her to her secretaries while in a state of ecstasy. Completed in 1370.

Reading (lectio) After settling in and quieting yourself,read the passage slowly, prayerfully. Just let it sink in for a minute or two, then read it a second time, paying closer attention to the words or phrases that speak to you.
Reflecting (meditatio) What do you hear God saying to you in this passage? What words or phrases caught your attention?
Responding (oratio) What do you want to say to God in response to what you've heard? Here you can also voice your prayers of petition, remorse, thanksgiving, praise, and so forth. If you sense God speaking to you in your thoughts, feelings or imagination, you respond as you would in any conversation.
Resting (contemplatio) If, at any time, you feel drawn to simply rest in the awareness of God's loving presence, you let yourself do so. Remain in loving silence as long as you feel comfortable, perhaps using a simple word or phrase from the Scripture passage to help deepen your openness to rest in God (see Centering Prayer method, below)

Message of 2-13-14

2014-02-13T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Prayer is not a matter of getting what we want the most. Prayer is a matter of giving ourselves to God and learning His laws, so that He can do through us what He wants the most.
- Agnes Sanford

(Pray the grace to be an instrument of God's love this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

1 KGS 11:4-13; PS 106:3-4, 35-37, 40; MK 7:24-30

R. Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

Blessed are they who observe what is right,
who do always what is just.
Remember us, O LORD, as you favor your people;
visit us with your saving help.

But they mingled with the nations
and learned their works.
They served their idols,
which became a snare for them.

They sacrificed their sons
and their daughters to demons.
And the LORD grew angry with his people,
and abhorred his inheritance.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

What did Jesus mean by the expression "throwing bread to the dogs"? The Jews often spoke of the Gentiles with arrogance and insolence as "unclean dogs" since the Gentiles were excluded from God's covenant and favor with Israel. For the Greeks the "dog" was a symbol of dishonor and was used to describe a shameless and audacious woman. Matthew's gospel records the expression do not give dogs what is holy (Matthew 7:6). Jesus, no doubt, spoke with a smile rather than with an insult because this woman immediately responds with wit and faith – "even the dogs eat the crumbs". Jesus praises a Gentile woman for her persistent faith and for her affectionate love. She made the misery of her child her own and she was willing to suffer rebuff in order to obtain healing for her loved one. She also had indomitable persistence. Her faith grew in contact with the person of Jesus. She began with a request and she ended on her knees in worshipful prayer to the living God. No one who ever sought Jesus with faith – whether Jew or Gentile – was refused his help. Do you seek Jesus with expectant faith?

"Lord Jesus, your love and mercy knows no bounds. May I trust you always and never doubt your loving care and mercy. Increase my faith in your saving help and deliver me from all evil and harm."

Spiritual Reading

The Cloud of Unknowing, by Anonymous (late 14th C.)
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/ 0385030975/?tag=christianspiritu
(Link to the translation by William Johnson, S.J., which is easier to read than the public domain translation below).

The third part of these two lives hangeth in this dark cloud of unknowing, with many a privy love pressed to God by Himself. The first part is good, the second is better, but the third is best of all. This is the “best part” of Mary. And therefore it is plainly to wit, that our Lord said not, Mary hath chosen the best life; for there be no more lives but two, and of two may no man choose the best. But of these two lives Mary hath chosen, He said, the best part; the which shall never be taken from her. The first part and the second, although they be both good and holy, yet they end with this life. For in the tother life shall be no need as now to use the works of mercy, nor to weep for our wretchedness, nor for the Passion of Christ. For then shall none be able to hunger nor thirst as now, nor die for cold, nor be sick, nor houseless, nor in prison; nor yet need burial, for then shall none be able to die. But the third part that Mary chose, choose who by grace is called to choose: or, if I soothlier shall say, whoso is chosen thereto of God. Let him lustily incline thereto, for that shall never be taken away: for if it begin here, it shall last without end.

- Chapter 21

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Message of 2-12-14

2014-02-12T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Our problem is that we assume prayer is something to master the way we master algebra or auto mechanics. That puts us in the "on-top" position, where we are competent and in control. But when praying, we come "underneath," where we calmly and deliberately surrender control and become incompetent... The truth of the matter is, we all come to prayer with a tangled mass of motives altruistic and selfish, merciful and hateful, loving and bitter. Frankly, this side of eternity we will never unravel the good from the bad, the pure from the impure. God is big enough to receive us with all our mixture. That is what grace means, and not only are we saved by it, we live by it as well. And we pray by it.
- Richard J. Foster

(Pray as you pray.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

1 KGS 10:1-10; PS 37:5-6, 30-31, 39-40; MK 7:14-23

R. The mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

Commit to the LORD your way;
trust in him, and he will act.
He will make justice dawn for you like the light;
bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.

The mouth of the just man tells of wisdom
and his tongue utters what is right.
The law of his God is in his heart,
and his steps do not falter.

The salvation of the just is from the LORD;
he is their refuge in time of distress.
And the LORD helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

The Lord wants to set us free from the burden of guilt and from the destructive force of sin in our personal lives. He wants to purify our hearts and renew our minds so we can love and act in every situation as he would love and act. The Lord is ready to change and purify our hearts through the grace and help of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. Like a physician who probes the wound before treating it, God through his Word and Spirit first brings sin into the light that we may recognize it for what it truly is and call upon his mercy and grace for pardon and healing. The Spirit of truth is our Consoler and Helper. His power and grace enables us to choose what is good and to reject what is evil. Do you believe in the power of God's love to heal, change, and transform your heart and mind?

"Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit and make my heart like yours. Strengthen my heart, mind, and my will that I may freely choose to love what is good and to reject what is evil."

Spiritual Reading

The Way of Perfection, by St. Teresa of Avila
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1456569856/?tag=christianspiritu

Continues the description of a method for recollecting the thoughts. Describes means of doing this. This chapter is very profitable for those who are beginning prayer.

If you are suffering trials, or are sad, look upon Him on His way to the Garden. What sore distress He must have borne in His soul, to describe His own suffering as He did and to complain of it! Or look upon Him bound to the Column, full of pain, His flesh all torn to pieces by His great love for you. How much He suffered, persecuted by some, spat upon by others, denied by His friends, and even deserted by them, with none to take His part, frozen with the cold and left so completely alone that you may well comfort each other! Or look upon Him bending under the weight of the Cross and not even allowed to take breath: He will look upon you with His lovely and compassionate eyes, full of tears, and in comforting your grief will forget His own because you are bearing Him company in order to comfort Him and turning your head to look upon Him.

- Chapter 26

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
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Message of 2-11-14

2014-02-11T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

When God works in us, the will, being changed and sweetly breathed upon by the Spirit of God, desire and acts, not from compulsion, but responsively.
- Martin Luther

(". . . for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Phil. 2:13)

1 KGS 8:22-23, 27-30; PS 84:3-5, 10, 11; MK 7:1-13

R. How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!

My soul yearns and pines
for the courts of the LORD.
My heart and my flesh
cry out for the living God.

Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest
in which she puts her young—
Your altars, O LORD of hosts,
my king and my God!

Blessed they who dwell in your house!
continually they praise you.
O God, behold our shield,
and look upon the face of your anointed.

I had rather one day in your courts
than a thousand elsewhere;
I had rather lie at the threshold of the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/daily.html

In the gospel, Jesus holds us to task that we go beyond the letter of the law and live the spirit. The critics were focusing on very specific behaviors (the washing of the hands) without regard to the broader picture and intent of why we need to be doing these particular things. It reminded me of how we sometimes in our daily lives lose track of why we are doing certain things – what the true picture may be. For instance, if I spend all my time assuring that my house is immaculate because that is what my children need to be healthy yet spend no time with them what does it matter? Of course, that was never a concern from my children, they never worried I was spending too much time cleaning (perhaps the opposite). If my goal is the well-being of my children, then every action should be consistent with that intent not just performing arbitrary tasks. If my goal is to be closer to God and to prepare myself for a life beyond this one on earth, then every action and how I live my life should be consistent with that intent not just following the letter of the law.

- by Nancy Shirley

Spiritual Reading

Selected Quotes from St. John of the Cross on the Journey of the Soul to God by Contemplation - from Living Flame of Love
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/ 1602064296/?tag=christianspiritu

Stanza 1. #19. God wars against all the imperfect habits of the soul and, purifying the soul with the heat of His flame, He uproots these habits from it and prepares it so that at last He may enter it and be united with it by His sweet, peaceful and glorious love, as is the ﬁre when it has entered the wood.

#24. At death the rivers of love of the soul are about to enter the sea. Burning with sweetness. Consuming not but enlightening.

- compiled by James and Tyra Arraj

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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Please support this ministry with a tax-deductible donation.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-10-14

2014-02-10T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

The truth is, of course, that the curtness of the Ten Commandments is an evidence, not of the gloom and narrowness of a religion, but, on the contrary, of its liberality and humanity. It is shorter to state the things forbidden than the things permitted: precisely because most things are permitted, and only a few things are forbidden.
- Gilbert Keith G. K. Chesterton

("Sin not, and do as you wish," goes an old saying. Enjoy the freedom of a child of God this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

1 KGS 8:1-7, 9-13; PS 132:6-7, 8-10; MK 6:53-56

R. Lord, go up to the place of your rest!

Behold, we heard of it in Ephrathah;
we found it in the fields of Jaar.
Let us enter into his dwelling,
let us worship at his footstool.

Advance, O LORD, to your resting place,
you and the ark of your majesty.
May your priests be clothed with justice;
let your faithful ones shout merrily for joy.
For the sake of David your servant,
reject not the plea of your anointed.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.preacherexchange.com/daily_bread.htm

They scurried about the surrounding country and began to bring in the sick on mats to wherever they heard [Jesus] was.

As I write this meditation, I’ve been suffering with a sinus infection for over two weeks. I can readily identify with the people who did whatever they had to do in order to feel well again. If only the medicines would work. If only I could breathe. If only I could sleep. If only I could touch the tassel on his cloak. And even when we’re not physically sick, it seems we are always searching for health and wholeness, longing for God’s shalom. The good news is that God is with us in the midst of our searching; indeed, God created us with the longing for health and wholeness.

Touch us and heal us, Lord Jesus; fill us with your peace.

- by Jeanne Lischer

Spiritual Reading

The Book of Supreme Truth, by St. John Rusybroeck (1293-1381)

The prophet Samuel mourned for King Saul, though he knew well that God had rejected him and his issue from being kings in Israel: this was because of his pride, and because he did not obey God and the prophet who spoke in His name. We may also read in the Gospel, that the disciples of our Lord pleaded with Him for the Gentile woman of Canaan, to send her away, that is, to do unto her that which she desired; for she cried after Him. So likewise I might say that we must mourn for all such deceived men as think themselves to be kings in Israel; for they believe themselves to be lifted up above other good men, into a lofty and God-seeing life. And yet they are proud and wittingly and willingly disobedient to God and the law and the Holy Church and every virtue. And like as Saul rent the mantle of the prophet Samuel, they endeavour to rend asunder the unity of the Christian faith, and all true doctrine and virtuous life. Whosoever persist herein, they are separated and shut out from the kingdom of eternal contemplation, even as Saul was shut out from the kingdom of Israel. But that humble little woman of Canaan, though she was Gentile and a stranger, had faith and hope in God, and acknowledged and confessed her littleness before Christ and His apostles: and so she received grace and health and all that she desired. For God exalts the humble, and fills them with grace and all virtues; and He resists the proud, and these remain empty of all good.

- Prologue

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Weekend Edition - A Daily Spiritual Seed

2014-02-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Contents:
- Book/Resource of the Week
- Weekend Readings
- Spiritual Guidance
- Saint of the Week
- Affiliate Web Sites
- Theology Note of the Week
- Discussion Board
- Joke of the Week
- Advertising and Archives
- Subscribe/Unsubscribe links. Attributions.

- - -

Book/Resource of the Week

Grave Injustice: Unearthing Wrongful Executions, by Richard A. Stack. Potomac Books, 2013.
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1612341624/?tag=christianspiritu

It is most probably true that United States has executed a number of innocent persons. This author aims to expose the main defects in the capital punishment system in vogue in the States by showing that the death penalty is carried out by flawed humans, and that this irreversible punishment has no place in an imperfect system. By naming the case of Troy Davis who spent twenty years in prison and was then executed for a crime he most likely did not commit, sets the stage for introducing many others whose fate was similar. Stack puts a human face on the tragedy of capital punishment.

The nineteen executions described in this book show clearly the defects in this system of “justice” and proves that capital punishment does not deter crime, and it costs more than life without parole. Noteworthy is the disparity between classes of persons who are executed: more African Americans than whites, more poor than rich, more poorly educated than well educated, more who can afford expensive lawyers that those who cannot. Procedural errors, incompetent defense attorneys, and mistaken eyewitnesses cause many unnecessary and unjust condemnations and deaths.

This author gives examples of six anti-death penalty warriors who clearly show the country how to become a more compassionate society, and prove that the death penalty is not the best way to go. Prisons were originally places for doing penance; executions eliminate all possibilities of redemption.

“…the death penalty neither deters crime nor affords the rest of society greater protection from offenders than a punishment of life without parole….Even the benefit of bringing “closure “to the murder victim’s loved ones is questionable.”

(Thanks to Sr. Irene Hartman OP for this review.)

Weekend Readings
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

Saturday
1 KGS 3:4-13
PS 119:9-14
MK 6:30-34

Sunday
IS 58:7-10
PS 112:4-9
1 COR 2:1-5
MT 5:13-16

Spiritual Guidance
- http://shalomplace.com/direction

Need a companion for the spiritual journey?

Consultations and spiritual direction available.

Saint of the Week
- http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx

St. Scholastica (480-542): February 10

Twins often share the same interests and ideas with an equal intensity. Therefore, it is no surprise that Scholastica and her twin brother, Benedict (July 11), established religious communities within a few miles from each other.

Born in 480 of wealthy parents, Scholastica and Benedict were brought up together until he left central Italy for Rome to continue his studies.

Little is known of Scholastica’s early life. She founded a religious community for women near Monte Cassino at Plombariola, five miles from where her brother governed a monastery.

The twins visited each other once a year in a farmhouse because Scholastica was not permitted inside the monastery. They spent these times discussing spiritual matters.

According to the Dialogues of St. Gregory the Great, the brother and sister spent their last day together in prayer and conversation. Scholastica sensed her death was close at hand and she begged Benedict to stay with her until the next day.

He refused her request because he did not want to spend a night outside the monastery, thus breaking his own Rule. Scholastica asked God to let her brother remain and a severe thunderstorm broke out, preventing Benedict and his monks from returning to the abbey.

Benedict cried out, “God forgive you, Sister. What have you done?” Scholastica replied, “I asked a favor of you and you refused. I asked it of God and he granted it.”

Brother and sister parted the next morning after their long discussion. Three days later, Benedict was praying in his monastery and saw the soul of his sister rising heavenward in the form of a white dove. Benedict then announced the death of his sister to the monks and later buried her in the tomb he had prepared for himself.

Affliate Web Sites
- Please give them a visit

SeeScapes: picturing the deeper dimensions of our spirituality.
- http://www.seescapes.com/

Heartland Center for Spirituality: sponsoring Internet workshops year-round.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/

Emanuella House of Prayer: a place for prayer and silence in British Columbia.
- http://emmanuellahouse.shawwebspace.ca/

Kyrie Places of Pilgrimmage and Renewal
- http://www.kyrie.com/places/index.htm

Temenos Catholic Worker: support for homeless youth in Polk Street neighborhood, San Francisco.
- http://www.temenos.org/

The Sanctuary Foundation for Prayer: resources for spiritual growth.
- http://fromholyground.org/index.htm

Philothea.net: promoting the love of God as expressed in The First Great Commandment
- http://philothea.net/

Hearts on Fire: a blog to spark inspiration, thought, wonder, laughter and prayer.
- http://heartsonfire33.wordpress.com/

Stillpoint: Programs in spiritual direction, contemplative prayer.
- http://www.stillpointnashville.org/

The Ark: Providing a variety of scripture and lectionary study resources.
- http://theark1.com/

Contemplative Ministries of the Pacific Northwest: Teaching and support on contemplative practice.
- http://www.prayeroftheheart.com/

Shalom Place: Resources on Christian spiritual living.
- http://shalomplace.com/

Inner Explorations: a vast array of spirituality resources for the mature Christian.
- http://innerexplorations.com

Reach hundreds of people who have a similar interest in Christian spirituality. Simply publish a link to Daily Spiritual Seed-- http://heartlandspirituality.org/dailyseed.html --on a prominent place on your web site and we will reciprocate with a weekly link to your site in the newsletter. Contact the Editor when you're ready to begin.

Theology Note of the Week
- http://carm.org/s

Sacrifice

Sacrifice has different meanings. It can mean the slaughter of animals for religious ceremony. It can mean the death of Christ on the cross by which our sins are forgiven. It can mean the attempt to appease a deity or deities through the death of an animal or person on an altar.

Discussion Board
- http://shalomplace.org/eve/forums

Topics being discussed at this time include:

Lonergan vs. Aurobindo
- Book and Movie Reviews forum

"The Rising Tide of Silence," by Thomas Keating
- Book and Movie Reviews forum

Snippets from the Hard Copy (on universal reconciliation)
- Recommended Resources forum

Apophatic Christian spirituality
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

Effects of eliminating salt, sugar, wheat and dairy
- Health and Wellness forum

Joke of the Week
- http://www.pacprod.com/jokes.pl

More Punny Lexophiles

Police were called to a day care Center where a three-year-old was resisting a rest.

Did you hear about the fellow whose whole left side was cut off? He's all right now.

A bicycle can't stand alone; it is two tired.

When a clock is hungry it goes back four seconds.

The guy who fell onto an upholstery machine is now fully recovered.

He had a photographic memory which was never developed.

When she saw her first strands of gray hair she thought she'd dye.

Acupuncture is a jab well done. That's the point of it.

- And the cream of the wretched crop -

Those who get too big for their pants will be exposed in the end.

(Thanks, Carol)

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- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-7-14

2014-02-07T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

I have learned that much of my spiritual progress does not come directly from God, but through my ability to humble myself and hear Him speak through imperfect people. In fact, I have discovered that it pleases Him to hide His manifold wisdom in a variety of people and denominational perspectives. I know that the more I humble myself to others, the broader my understanding of God has actually become.
- Francis Frangipane

(Be open to God communicating with you through other people and creation this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

SIR 47:2-11; PS 18:31, 47, 50, 51; MK 6:14-29

R. Blessed be God my salvation!

God’s way is unerring,
the promise of the LORD is fire-tried;
he is a shield to all who take refuge in him.

The LORD live! And blessed be my Rock!
Extolled be God my savior.
Therefore will I proclaim you, O LORD, among the nations,
and I will sing praise to your name.

You who gave great victories to your king
and showed kindness to your anointed,
to David and his posterity forever.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- from Praying the Daily Gospels, by Philip St. Romain

Mark 6: 14-29 (Herod and John)

Herod had tried to silence the voice of his own conscience by imprisoning and killing John the Baptist. This passage points out the utter superficiality of Herod's life and issues a subtle warning about the impossibility of suppressing God's intentions.

Herod was trapped in a role, unable to find holiness because of his life situation. How are you like him? How are you different?
Pray for the grace to break out of roles that confine you.

Spiritual Reading

The Dialogue of Catherine of Siena (1347-80)

"A Treatise on Discretion"

How traveling on both of these roads, that is the Bridge and the River, is fatiguing; and of the delight which the soul feels in traveling by the Bridge.

“These are the two roads, and both are hard to travel. Wonder, then, at the ignorance and blindness of man, who, having a Road made for him, which causes such delight to those who use It, that every bitterness becomes sweet, and every burden light, yet prefers to walk over the water. For those who cross by the Bridge, being still in the darkness of the body, find light, and, being mortal, find immortal life, tasting, through love, the light of Eternal Truth which promises refreshment to him who wearies himself for Me, who am grateful and just, and render to every man according as he deserves. Wherefore every good deed is rewarded, and every fault is punished. The tongue would not be sufficient to relate the delight felt by him who goes on this road, for, even in this life, he tastes and participates in that good which has been prepared for him in eternal life. He, therefore, is a fool indeed, who despises so great a good, and chooses rather to receive in this life, the earnest money of Hell, walking by the lower road with great toil, and without any refreshment or advantage. Wherefore, through their sins, they are deprived of Me, who am the Supreme and Eternal Good. Truly then have you reason for grief, and I will that you and My other servants remain in continual bitterness of soul at the offense done to Me, and in compassion for the ignorant, and the loss of those who, in their ignorance, thus offend Me. Now you have seen and heard about this Bridge, how it is, and this I have told you in order to explain My words, that My only-begotten Son was a Bridge. And thus, you see that He is the Truth, made in the way that I have shown you, that is—by the union of height and lowliness.”

- Dictated by her to her secretaries while in a state of ecstasy. Completed in 1370.

Reading (lectio) After settling in and quieting yourself,read the passage slowly, prayerfully. Just let it sink in for a minute or two, then read it a second time, paying closer attention to the words or phrases that speak to you.
Reflecting (meditatio) What do you hear God saying to you in this passage? What words or phrases caught your attention?
Responding (oratio) What do you want to say to God in response to what you've heard? Here you can also voice your prayers of petition, remorse, thanksgiving, praise, and so forth. If you sense God speaking to you in your thoughts, feelings or imagination, you respond as you would in any conversation.
Resting (contemplatio) If, at any time, you feel drawn to simply rest in the awareness of God's loving presence, you let yourself do so. Remain in loving silence as long as you feel comfortable, perhaps using a simple word or phrase from the Scripture passage to help deepen your openness to rest in God (see Centering Prayer method, below)

Message of 2-6-14

2014-02-06T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

How do you convince a world that God is alive? By His aliveness in your life, by His work in producing reality in your experience.
- Howard G. Hendricks

(Be fully alive in God this day.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

1 KGS 2:1-4, 10-12; 1 CHR 29:10-12; MK 6:7-13

R. Lord, you are exalted over all.

“Blessed may you be, O LORD,
God of Israel our father,
from eternity to eternity.”

“Yours, O LORD, are grandeur and power,
majesty, splendor, and glory.”

“LORD, you are exalted over all.
Yours, O LORD, is the sovereignty;
you are exalted as head over all.
Riches and honor are from you.”

“In your hand are power and might;
it is yours to give grandeur and strength to all.”

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

Why does Jesus tell the apostles to "travel light" with little or no provision? "Poverty of spirit" frees us from greed and preoccupation with our possessions and makes ample room for God's provision. The Lord wants his disciples to be dependent on him and not on themselves. He wills to work in and through each of us for his glory. Are you ready to use the spiritual authority and power which God wishes you to exercise on his behalf? The Lord entrusts us with his gifts and talents. Are you eager to place yourself at his service, to do whatever he bids you, and to witness his truth and saving power to whomever he sends you?

"Lord Jesus, make me a channel of your healing power and merciful love that others may find abundant life and freedom in you. Free me from all other attachments that I may joyfully pursue the treasure of your heavenly kingdom. May I witness the joy of the gospel both in word and deed."

Spiritual Reading

The Cloud of Unknowing, by Anonymous (late 14th C.)
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/ 0385030975/?tag=christianspiritu
(Link to the translation by William Johnson, S.J., which is easier to read than the public domain translation below).

The true exposition of this gospel word, “Mary hath chosen the best part.”
But although there be but two lives, nevertheless yet in these two lives be three parts, each one better than other. The which three, each one by itself, be specially set in their places before in this writing. For as it is said before, the ﬁrst part standeth in good and honest bodily works of mercy and of charity; and this is the ﬁrst degree of active life, as it is said before. The second part of these two lives lieth in good ghostly meditations of a man’s own wretchedness, the Passion of Christ, and of the joys of heaven. The ﬁrst part is good, and this part is the better; for this is the second degree of active life and the ﬁrst of contemplative life. In this part is contemplative life and active life coupled together in ghostly kinship, and made sisters at the ensample of Martha and Mary. Thus high may an active come to contemplation; and no higher, but if it be full seldom and by a special grace. Thus low may a contemplative come towards active life; and no lower, but if it be full seldom and in great need.

- Chapter 21

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- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-4-14

2014-02-04T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Make it a rule, and pray to God to help you to keep it, never, if possible, to lie down at night without being able to say: "I have made one human being at least a little wiser, or a little happier, or at least a little better this day."
- Charles Kingsley

(A good resolution for today.)

2 SM 18:9-10, 14B, 24-25A, 30-19:3; PS 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; MK 5:21-43

R. Listen, Lord, and answer me.

Incline your ear, O LORD; answer me,
for I am afflicted and poor.
Keep my life, for I am devoted to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God.

Have mercy on me, O Lord,
for to you I call all the day.
Gladden the soul of your servant,
for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving,
abounding in kindness to all who call upon you.
Hearken, O LORD, to my prayer
and attend to the sound of my pleading.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/daily.html

There are not too many biblical stories that bring out the raw emotions of the people involved more than today’s first reading. David is the great king of Israel. However, like many of us, he made mistakes with his children. A number of mistakes with Absalom led to a life that spiraled out of control. Eventually, Absalom led a rebellion against his own father. What a difficult position for David to be in. He loved his son and wanted him to live so that there could be reconciliation between them but he was not prepared to give up the kingdom. So, he sent Joab, the commander of his armies, to battle against the rebels but gave him strict orders to spare Absalom’s life. Joab defeated the rebel armies but proved to be untrustworthy. He explicitly disobeyed the king’s order and personally killed a defenseless Absalom. What a beautiful but heart wrenching picture of a father weeping for his son. “My son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you, Absalom, my son, my son!” That is truly “a man after God’s own heart.” If only I had died instead of you. . .

David trusted Joab and he failed David in one of the most important episodes of his life. Jairus trusted Jesus and saw Death flee from the presence of He who is Life. The heading for Psalm 86 is “A prayer of David.” We do not know when in his life he prayed this prayer. We only know that, by now, he knows what Jairus knew. He knew that it makes a difference where you place your trust. He declares: You are my God. I trust in you.

- by George Butterfield

Spiritual Reading

Selected Quotes from St. John of the Cross on the Journey of the Soul to God by Contemplation - from Living Flame of Love
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1602064296/?tag=christianspiritu

Stanza 1. #6. This soul is so near to God that it is transformed in the ﬂames of love, wherein Father, Son and Holy Spirit communicate Themselves to it. The effect of the living ﬂames is to make the soul live spiritually in God, and experience the life of God.

#8. Love is ever throwing out sparks; the effect is to wound, that it may enkindle with love and cause delight.

- compiled by James and Tyra Arraj

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- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-5-14

2014-02-03T12:50:00.003-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Dare to love and to be a real friend. The love you give and receive is a reality that will lead you closer and closer to God as well as those whom God has given you to love.
- Henri J. M. Nouwen

(Sometimes it's good to remember that the core practice is love. Let this your focus today.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

2 SM 24:2, 9-17; PS 32:1-2, 5-7; MK 6:1-6

R. Lord, forgive the wrong I have done.

Blessed is he whose fault is taken away,
whose sin is covered.
Blessed the man to whom the LORD imputes not guilt,
in whose spirit there is no guile.

Then I acknowledged my sin to you,
my guilt I covered not.
I said, “I confess my faults to the LORD,”
and you took away the guilt of my sin.

For this shall every faithful man pray to you
in time of stress.
Though deep waters overflow,
they shall not reach him.

You are my shelter; from distress you will preserve me;
with glad cries of freedom you will ring me round.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.dailysripture.net

The word "gospel" literally means "good news". Isaiah had prophesied that the Messiah would come in the power of the Holy Spirit to bring freedom to the afflicted who suffered from physical, mental, or spiritual oppression (see Isaiah 61:1-2). Jesus came to set people free – not only from their physical, mental, and spiritual infirmities - but also from the worst affliction of all – the tyranny of slavery to sin, Satan, and the fear of losing one's life. God's power alone can save us from hopelessness, dejection, and emptiness of life. The gospel of salvation is "good news" for everyone who will receive it. Do you know the joy and freedom of the gospel?

"Lord Jesus, you are the fulfillment of all our hopes and desires. Your Spirit brings grace, truth, freedom, and abundant life. Set my heart on fire with your love and truth."

Spiritual Reading

The Way of Perfection, by St. Teresa of Avila
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1456569856/?tag=christianspiritu

Continues the description of a method for recollecting the thoughts. Describes means of doing this. This chapter is very profitable for those who are beginning prayer.

A wife, they say, must be like this if she is to have a happy married life with her husband. If he is sad, she must show signs of sadness; if he is merry, even though she may not in fact be so, she must appear merry too. See what slavery you have escaped from, sisters! Yet this, without any pretence, is really how we are treated by the Lord. He becomes subject to us and is pleased to let you be the mistress and to conform to your will. If you are happy, look upon your risen Lord, and the very thought of how He rose from the sepulchre will gladden you. How bright and how beautiful was He then! How majestic! How victorious! How joyful! He was like one emerging from a battle in which He had gained a great kingdom, all of which He desires you to have -- and with it Himself. Is it such a great thing that you should turn your eyes but once and look upon Him Who has made you such great gifts?

- Chapter 26

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- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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Message of 2-3-14

2014-02-03T00:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Message of the Day

Character is not built by battling and excitement alone. The harvest is not ripened by the thunderous forces of nature, but by the secret silent invisible forces. So the best qualities of our spiritual lives are matured by quietness, silence and commonplace.
- A. P. Gouthey

(Only in silence can we discover our deeper thoughts and feelings, and sense that still small voice of the Spirit. Reduce the unnecessary noise in your life. Make silence a priority.)

Readings of the Day
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

2 SM 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13; PS 3:2-7; MK 5:1-20

R. Lord, rise up and save me.

O LORD, how many are my adversaries!
Many rise up against me!
Many are saying of me,
“There is no salvation for him in God.”

But you, O LORD, are my shield;
my glory, you lift up my head!
When I call out to the LORD,
he answers me from his holy mountain.

When I lie down in sleep,
I wake again, for the LORD sustains me.
I fear not the myriads of people
arrayed against me on every side.

Reflection on the Scriptures
- http://www.preacherexchange.com/daily_bread.htm

Suppose the Lord has told him to curse [me]; who then will dare to say,

“Why are you doing this?” King David would never be mistaken as a role model for “family values” today. He pretty well broke every commandment, yet he is revered as one of the greatest biblical rulers. Despite his many weaknesses, David recognized God’s presence in every triumph and tragedy. He also realized that God’s message could be delivered through myriad individuals, even those whom he feared or disliked. We often learn life’s greatest truths through the unlikeliest of people.

Lord, give me an open mind and an open heart that I might hear your truth amid the many voices that vie for my attention today.

- by Mary Joshi

Spiritual Reading

The Sparkling Stone, by St. John Rusybroeck (1293-1381)

The man who is sent down by God from these heights into the world is full of truth and rich in all virtues. And he seeks not his own but the glory of Him Who has sent him. And hence he is just and truthful in all things, and he possesses a rich and a generous ground, which is set in the richness of God: and therefore he must always spend himself on those who have need of him; for the living fount of the Holy Ghost, which is his wealth, can never be spent. And he is a living and willing instrument of God, with which God works whatsoever He wills and howsoever He wills; and these works he reckons not as his own, but gives all the glory to God. And so he remains ready and willing to do in the virtues all that God commands, and strong and courageous in suffering and enduring all that God allows to befall him. And by this he possesses a universal life, for he is ready alike for contemplation and for action, and is perfect in both of them. And none can have this universal life save the God-seeing man; and none can contemplate and enjoy God save he who has within himself the six points, ordered as I have described heretofore. And therefore, all those are deceived who fancy themselves to be contemplative, and yet inordinately love, practice, or possess, some creaturely thing; or who fancy that they enjoy God before they are empty of images, or that they rest before they enjoy. All such are deceived; for we must make ourselves fit for God with an open heart, with a peaceful conscience, with naked contemplation, without hypocrisy, in sincerity and truth. And then we shall mount up from virtue unto virtue, and shall see God, and shall enjoy Him, and in Him shall become one with Him, in the way which I have shown to you. That this be done in all of us, so help us God. Amen.

- Chapter 14. Of that common life which comes from the contemplation and fruition of God.

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Weekend Edition - A Daily Spiritual Seed

2014-01-31T12:30:00.000-08:00

A Daily Spiritual Seed
- resources for prayer and spiritual growth
- blogcast from http://dailyspiritualseed.blogspot.com (comments option open)

Contents:
- Book/Resource of the Week
- Weekend Readings
- Spiritual Guidance
- Saint of the Week
- Affiliate Web Sites
- Theology Note of the Week
- Discussion Board
- Joke of the Week
- Advertising and Archives
- Subscribe/Unsubscribe links. Attributions.

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Book/Resource of the Week

Practicing Peace: A Devotional Walk Through the Quaker Tradition, by Catherine Whitmore. Sorin Books, 2007.
- http://www.amazon.com/dp/1933495073/?tag=christianspiritu

In this book the author applies the Quaker tradition of peacemaking to everyday living in such a way that readers may be truly shaken from complacency. She offers inspirational stories of nonviolence, quotes from great Quaker leaders, and best of all pointed questions for prayer and reflection. This book is well suited for group study as a powerful instrument for peace in a world that knows so much about war. There is little danger that this book will make one feel comfortable.

Some favorite stories include this one about a devout peacemaker who devoted her life to make life better for war victims, by helping to build houses and provide supplies for war victims. She was not Catholic and the law said that she could not be buried in a Catholic cemetery. Many who had profited from her generosity after World War I, devised a plan to bury her just outside the Catholic cemetery, and then when the dust settled, they moved the fence to include her burial site.

Forgiveness is a common theme among Quakers, as shown in this story: A German official, who during World War II had oppressed the people of Finland, came for the 35th anniversary of the rebuilding of that province. All during the two day celebration, the German was treated with upmost respect; no mention was made of his part in destroying the country 35 years ago, although the villagers knew what he had done. The focus of the days was on the recovery, not on the destroyer. His voice broke as he thanked the Finns for their spirit of forgiveness. Generosity had triumphed over vindictiveness.

(On the day that Mandela was released from prison, he was heard to say, “If I don’t forgive my jailers, then I remain imprisoned. “)

This quote from William Penn came in 1682: “True godliness does not turn people out of the world, but enables them to live better in it, and excites their endeavors to mend it.”

(Thanks to Sr. Irene Hartman OP for this review.)

Weekend Readings
- http://www.usccb.org/calendar/index.cfm?showLit=1&action=month

Saturday
2 SM 12:1-7, 10-17
PS 51:12-17
MK 4:35-41

Sunday
MAL 3:1-4
PS 24:7-10
HEB 2:14-18
LK 2:22-40

Spiritual Guidance
- http://shalomplace.com/direction

Need a companion for the spiritual journey?

Consultations and spiritual direction available.

Saint of the Week
- http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx

St. Paul Miki and Companions (d. 1597): February 6

Nagasaki, Japan, is familiar to Americans as the city on which the second atomic bomb was dropped, immediately killing over 37,000 people. Three and a half centuries before, 26 martyrs of Japan were crucified on a hill, now known as the Holy Mountain, overlooking Nagasaki. Among them were priests, brothers and laymen, Franciscans, Jesuits and members of the Secular Franciscan Order; there were catechists, doctors, simple artisans and servants, old men and innocent children—all united in a common faith and love for Jesus and his Church.

Brother Paul Miki, a Jesuit and a native of Japan, has become the best known among the martyrs of Japan. While hanging upon a cross, Paul Miki preached to the people gathered for the execution: “The sentence of judgment says these men came to Japan from the Philippines, but I did not come from any other country. I am a true Japanese. The only reason for my being killed is that I have taught the doctrine of Christ. I certainly did teach the doctrine of Christ. I thank God it is for this reason I die. I believe that I am telling only the truth before I die. I know you believe me and I want to say to you all once again: Ask Christ to help you to become happy. I obey Christ. After Christ’s example I forgive my persecutors. I do not hate them. I ask God to have pity on all, and I hope my blood will fall on my fellow men as a fruitful rain.”

When missionaries returned to Japan in the 1860s, at first they found no trace of Christianity. But after establishing themselves they found that thousands of Christians lived around Nagasaki and that they had secretly preserved the faith. Beatified in 1627, the martyrs of Japan were finally canonized in 1862.

Affliate Web Sites
- Please give them a visit

Heartland Center for Spirituality: sponsoring Internet workshops year-round.
- http://heartlandspirituality.org/

Emanuella House of Prayer: a place for prayer and silence in British Columbia.
- http://emmanuellahouse.shawwebspace.ca/

Kyrie Places of Pilgrimmage and Renewal
- http://www.kyrie.com/places/index.htm

Temenos Catholic Worker: support for homeless youth in Polk Street neighborhood, San Francisco.
- http://www.temenos.org/

The Sanctuary Foundation for Prayer: resources for spiritual growth.
- http://fromholyground.org/index.htm

Philothea.net: promoting the love of God as expressed in The First Great Commandment
- http://philothea.net/

Hearts on Fire: a blog to spark inspiration, thought, wonder, laughter and prayer.
- http://heartsonfire33.wordpress.com/

Stillpoint: Programs in spiritual direction, contemplative prayer.
- http://www.stillpointnashville.org/

The Ark: Providing a variety of scripture and lectionary study resources.
- http://theark1.com/

Contemplative Ministries of the Pacific Northwest: Teaching and support on contemplative practice.
- http://www.prayeroftheheart.com/

Shalom Place: Resources on Christian spiritual living.
- http://shalomplace.com/

Inner Explorations: a vast array of spirituality resources for the mature Christian.
- http://innerexplorations.com

SeeScapes: picturing the deeper dimensions of our spirituality.
- http://www.seescapes.com/

Reach hundreds of people who have a similar interest in Christian spirituality. Simply publish a link to Daily Spiritual Seed-- http://heartlandspirituality.org/dailyseed.html --on a prominent place on your web site and we will reciprocate with a weekly link to your site in the newsletter. Contact the Editor when you're ready to begin.

Theology Note of the Week
- http://carm.org/s

Sacred Tradition

Sacred Tradition is a term used in the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox (Holy Tradition) churches that designates that special tradition of apostolic teaching handed down through the bishopric of their churches, generation after generation. Such sacred traditions are equal in authority to scripture and comprise the totality of the deposit of faith. Sacred Tradition is considered to be inspired, just as the Bible is inspired.

By contrast the Protestant position is that the Scriptures alone are the final rule of authority in the Christian church. This is known as Sola Scriptura.

Discussion Board
- http://shalomplace.org/eve/forums

Topics being discussed at this time include:

Lonergan vs. Aurobindo
- Book and Movie Reviews forum

Snippets from the Hard Copy (on universal reconciliation)
- Recommended Resources forum

Apophatic Christian spirituality
- Christian Spirituality Issues forum

Effects of eliminating salt, sugar, wheat and dairy
- Health and Wellness forum

Joke of the Week
- http://www.pacprod.com/jokes.pl

Punny Lexophiles

When fish are in schools, they sometimes take debate.

A thief who stole a calendar got twelve months.

When the smog lifts in Los Angeles U.C.L.A.

The batteries were given out free of charge.

A dentist and a manicurist married. They fought tooth and nail.

A will is a dead giveaway.

With her marriage, she got a new name and a dress.

A boiled egg is hard to beat.

When you've seen one shopping Center you've seen a mall.

(Thanks, Carol)

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Amazon Gift Cards: Good for any occasion.
- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067L6TQ/?tag=christianspiritu

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- http://heartlandspirituality.org/support.html

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