Notes from celebration of the Mass on 14 December
Mass readings:
Zephaniah 3 v 1 - 2 , 9 - 13
1 Woe to the city of oppressors,
rebellious and defiled!
2 She obeys no one,
she accepts no correction.
She does not trust in the LORD,
she does not draw near to her God.
9 “Then I will purify the lips of the peoples,
that all of them may call on the name of the LORD
and serve him shoulder to shoulder.
10 From beyond the rivers of Cush[d]
my worshipers, my scattered people,
will bring me offerings.
11 On that day you, Jerusalem, will not be put to shame
for all the wrongs you have done to me,
because I will remove from you
your arrogant boasters.
Never again will you be haughty
on my holy hill.
12 But I will leave within you
the meek and humble.
The remnant of Israel
will trust in the name of the LORD.
13 They will do no wrong;
they will tell no lies.
A deceitful tongue
will not be found in their mouths.
They will eat and lie down
and no one will make them afraid.”
Matthew 21 v 28 - 32
28 “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’
29 “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.
30 “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.
31 “Which of the two did what his father wanted?”
“The first,” they answered.
Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Picture of Mary and Jesus. Mary brings Jesus to us that we may know him.
Picture of Jesus on the Cross his blood flowing from his body. His blood pours over us who are part of his body the Church bringing us cleansing and healing and which we in turn pass to others.
There is love peace and salvation flowing from the blood shed for you.
Have patience, God may not act as quickly as we would want.
Do we do the father's will?
How do we take correction? Do we accept or reject it?
Our mission may be found in the ordinary things of life.
Sunday, 19 December 2010
Monday, 29 November 2010
A body united in love and service
Notes of Meeting 23 November
Habakuk 3 v 17 - 18
17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Saviour.
A sacrifice of praise - decide to praise God
Picture of Jesus in front of a throne of fire. Multitudes of people were around Him.
In front of Him was One like Him conducting an exquisite sounding orchestra. The multitudes were singing and praising in unison and the conductor was the Holy Spirit leading them in perfect worship of the One before the throne who was Jesus and the fire on the throne which was God the Father. All the people looked to the Holy Spirit conducting who led them to the finale then all worshipped and listened.
The people formed into the shape of a body with Christ as it's head all interacting perfectly it was as though Jesus thought and said something and the message was passed by the Holy Spirit down the backbone to the other areas. All was calm and all working in conjunction with the head which was Christ.
The body was a body of love and service to others, reaching out, helping, interceding , healing and loving mankind.
1 Corinthians 12 v 20 - 28
20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honourable we treat with special honour. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honour to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it.
27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.
Baruch 5 (Good News Translation)
1 Jerusalem, take off the clothes you have worn in your mourning and distress, and put on the eternal splendour of God's glory.2 Put around you the cloak of God's righteousness. Place on your head the crown of the glory of the Eternal God.3 God will show your splendor to every nation on earth.4 Forever he will say to you:
Your security comes from your righteousness, and your splendor from your devotion to me.
5 Get up, Jerusalem, stand on the mountaintop; see where God, the Holy One, is bringing your children together from the east and from the west. They are rejoicing that God has remembered them.6 Jerusalem, your children were led away by their enemies; they left you on foot, but God is bringing them back to you, carried in royal splendor.7 God has commanded that every high mountain and the everlasting hills shall be made low; he has commanded that the valleys shall be filled and the ground leveled, so that the people of Israel may come safely home in the glory of God.8 At the command of God, forests of fragrant trees will spring up to provide shade for the people of Israel.9 God will lead Israel home. They will return with great joy, guided by his mercy and righteousness, surrounded by the light of his glorious presence.
Romans 13 v 8 -14
Love Fulfills the Law
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
The Day Is Near
11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh
Make Jesus the centre of your life.
I am the God who opens prison doors. I set the captives free.
Sense of Jesus pouring down the fruits of the Spirit as we praise.
Picture of John the Baptist baptising Jesus - come to the water and repent.
Intercede for lost souls and people on the brink
[There is more to add to this post later once I have some further input from Ann Liddell - Stephen]
Habakuk 3 v 17 - 18
17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Saviour.
A sacrifice of praise - decide to praise God
Picture of Jesus in front of a throne of fire. Multitudes of people were around Him.
In front of Him was One like Him conducting an exquisite sounding orchestra. The multitudes were singing and praising in unison and the conductor was the Holy Spirit leading them in perfect worship of the One before the throne who was Jesus and the fire on the throne which was God the Father. All the people looked to the Holy Spirit conducting who led them to the finale then all worshipped and listened.
The people formed into the shape of a body with Christ as it's head all interacting perfectly it was as though Jesus thought and said something and the message was passed by the Holy Spirit down the backbone to the other areas. All was calm and all working in conjunction with the head which was Christ.
The body was a body of love and service to others, reaching out, helping, interceding , healing and loving mankind.
1 Corinthians 12 v 20 - 28
20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honourable we treat with special honour. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honour to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it.
27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.
Baruch 5 (Good News Translation)
1 Jerusalem, take off the clothes you have worn in your mourning and distress, and put on the eternal splendour of God's glory.2 Put around you the cloak of God's righteousness. Place on your head the crown of the glory of the Eternal God.3 God will show your splendor to every nation on earth.4 Forever he will say to you:
Your security comes from your righteousness, and your splendor from your devotion to me.
5 Get up, Jerusalem, stand on the mountaintop; see where God, the Holy One, is bringing your children together from the east and from the west. They are rejoicing that God has remembered them.6 Jerusalem, your children were led away by their enemies; they left you on foot, but God is bringing them back to you, carried in royal splendor.7 God has commanded that every high mountain and the everlasting hills shall be made low; he has commanded that the valleys shall be filled and the ground leveled, so that the people of Israel may come safely home in the glory of God.8 At the command of God, forests of fragrant trees will spring up to provide shade for the people of Israel.9 God will lead Israel home. They will return with great joy, guided by his mercy and righteousness, surrounded by the light of his glorious presence.
Romans 13 v 8 -14
Love Fulfills the Law
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
The Day Is Near
11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh
Make Jesus the centre of your life.
I am the God who opens prison doors. I set the captives free.
Sense of Jesus pouring down the fruits of the Spirit as we praise.
Picture of John the Baptist baptising Jesus - come to the water and repent.
Intercede for lost souls and people on the brink
[There is more to add to this post later once I have some further input from Ann Liddell - Stephen]
Wednesday, 17 November 2010
Love, Faith, Hope, Joy and Peace
Notes of meeting on 9 November
Luke 17:6 (New International Version)
6 He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.
A picture of Our Lady at the Annunciation where in faith she said "yes" to becoming the Mother of Jesus the Son of God. At His birth she looked on Him in love, wonder and awe.
We too can have this faith, the wonder, this awe or fear of the Lord. If like her we believe in his word we will grow in grace and promise as he did. If we thank him and praise him all things will be revealed and the light of faith in us will stir up men's hearts and draw them to the Heart of Jesus and his Blessed Mother.
The picture then moved to reveal a jewelled crown and the main jewels in the front were LOVE FAITH HOPE JOY. On the base of the crown was Theotokos, all these gifts are here for us in the group if we only open our minds and allow the Spirit to work in us. We cannot earn this crown because it is freely given. We need faith to grasp it and move with the Holy Spirit
Notes of meeting on 16 November
Again a picture of a crown with the four jewels of LOVE FAITH HOPE JOY and again on the base Theotokos. this time there was a cross piece on top saying PEACE.
Our Lady had her arms outstretched and was extending the crown over us inviting us to take it and put it on. When we put it on it will act much like a helmet of protection like that in Ephesians - the Helmet of Salvation.
This crown is a gift and no matter what befalls us as a group and individually we will be at peace. Our minds will be protected from the arrows and games of the evil one,Satan. This crown will be custom made for each one of us and will help us in our work for Our Blessed Mother and her Son Jesus. Our hearts and minds will be so at peace we will be able to do the Father's will and intercede for mankind. Our Mother was smiling and happy as each one took it and placed it upon our heads because we were willing to be instruments for Jesus. Mary and Jesus will never leave us in this mission, for this mission is to help win souls from the darkness into the Glorious Light and even though Satan will try to test us we will stand firm with Jesus at our side.
"Be at Peace"
Baruch 5 (Good News Translation)
Baruch 5
1 Jerusalem, take off the clothes you have worn in your mourning and distress, and put on the eternal splendor of God's glory.2 Put around you the cloak of God's righteousness. Place on your head the crown of the glory of the Eternal God.3 God will show your splendor to every nation on earth.4 Forever he will say to you:Your security comes from your righteousness, and your splendour from your devotion to me.
5 Get up, Jerusalem, stand on the mountaintop; see where God, the Holy One, is bringing your children together from the east and from the west. They are rejoicing that God has remembered them.6 Jerusalem, your children were led away by their enemies; they left you on foot, but God is bringing them back to you, carried in royal splendor.7 God has commanded that every high mountain and the everlasting hills shall be made low; he has commanded that the valleys shall be filled and the ground leveled, so that the people of Israel may come safely home in the glory of God.8 At the command of God, forests of fragrant trees will spring up to provide shade for the people of Israel.9 God will lead Israel home. They will return with great joy, guided by his mercy and righteousness, surrounded by the light of his glorious presence.
John 14 v 27
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Romans 13 v 8
Love Fulfills the Law
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.”10 Love does no harm to a neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Luke 17:6 (New International Version)
6 He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.
A picture of Our Lady at the Annunciation where in faith she said "yes" to becoming the Mother of Jesus the Son of God. At His birth she looked on Him in love, wonder and awe.
We too can have this faith, the wonder, this awe or fear of the Lord. If like her we believe in his word we will grow in grace and promise as he did. If we thank him and praise him all things will be revealed and the light of faith in us will stir up men's hearts and draw them to the Heart of Jesus and his Blessed Mother.
The picture then moved to reveal a jewelled crown and the main jewels in the front were LOVE FAITH HOPE JOY. On the base of the crown was Theotokos, all these gifts are here for us in the group if we only open our minds and allow the Spirit to work in us. We cannot earn this crown because it is freely given. We need faith to grasp it and move with the Holy Spirit
Notes of meeting on 16 November
Again a picture of a crown with the four jewels of LOVE FAITH HOPE JOY and again on the base Theotokos. this time there was a cross piece on top saying PEACE.
Our Lady had her arms outstretched and was extending the crown over us inviting us to take it and put it on. When we put it on it will act much like a helmet of protection like that in Ephesians - the Helmet of Salvation.
This crown is a gift and no matter what befalls us as a group and individually we will be at peace. Our minds will be protected from the arrows and games of the evil one,Satan. This crown will be custom made for each one of us and will help us in our work for Our Blessed Mother and her Son Jesus. Our hearts and minds will be so at peace we will be able to do the Father's will and intercede for mankind. Our Mother was smiling and happy as each one took it and placed it upon our heads because we were willing to be instruments for Jesus. Mary and Jesus will never leave us in this mission, for this mission is to help win souls from the darkness into the Glorious Light and even though Satan will try to test us we will stand firm with Jesus at our side.
"Be at Peace"
Baruch 5 (Good News Translation)
Baruch 5
1 Jerusalem, take off the clothes you have worn in your mourning and distress, and put on the eternal splendor of God's glory.2 Put around you the cloak of God's righteousness. Place on your head the crown of the glory of the Eternal God.3 God will show your splendor to every nation on earth.4 Forever he will say to you:Your security comes from your righteousness, and your splendour from your devotion to me.
5 Get up, Jerusalem, stand on the mountaintop; see where God, the Holy One, is bringing your children together from the east and from the west. They are rejoicing that God has remembered them.6 Jerusalem, your children were led away by their enemies; they left you on foot, but God is bringing them back to you, carried in royal splendor.7 God has commanded that every high mountain and the everlasting hills shall be made low; he has commanded that the valleys shall be filled and the ground leveled, so that the people of Israel may come safely home in the glory of God.8 At the command of God, forests of fragrant trees will spring up to provide shade for the people of Israel.9 God will lead Israel home. They will return with great joy, guided by his mercy and righteousness, surrounded by the light of his glorious presence.
John 14 v 27
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Romans 13 v 8
Love Fulfills the Law
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.”10 Love does no harm to a neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Sunday, 14 November 2010
Jesus the Font of Grace and Mercy
Notes of meeting on 2 November
A picture of many souls leaving the earth and rising to Heaven. The souls seemed to enter an anti-chamber of a large hall. There were two huge doors slightly ajar, the light emanating from them was so strong that it was hard to see the large banqueting table fully laden waiting for the guests to arrive.
Back in the anti-chamber were souls in deep quiet prayer, some already full of light proceeded to the banqueting hall straight away - the Saints. Others produced their hearts for inspection some were nearly all covered in grime with only a little chink of light showing. Angels went on their knees and prayed and I could see Jesus on the Cross and the Angels used Jesus' blood and water and burnished the hearts clean, they then re-clothed the souls in a white garment and they entered the banqueting hall.
A feeling that Jesus was telling us that it is possible to go straight to Heaven. If we sin we have to keep going to the font of Jesus' blood and water; eventually we will shine and be a reflection of Him but not by our deeds but by His Mercy in other words His Mercy will change us.
Also our gifts given by the Holy Spirit are for the building up of His Church and not to be used as some form of kudos or power of our own (this is what Judas did). Jesus gifted his apostles to lead his people to him and the Father . Those same apostles through his mercy and his gifting became Saints.
Jesus the Font , the receptacle, of the Grace of Mercy that frees us by the action of the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 1 v 11-24
Paul Called by God
11 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.
13 For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. 14 I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. 17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus.
18 Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days. 19 I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother. 20 I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie.
21 Then I went to Syria and Cilicia. 22 I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they praised God because of me.
St Paul a persecutor of the Church became one of it's greatest Saints!
A picture of many souls leaving the earth and rising to Heaven. The souls seemed to enter an anti-chamber of a large hall. There were two huge doors slightly ajar, the light emanating from them was so strong that it was hard to see the large banqueting table fully laden waiting for the guests to arrive.
Back in the anti-chamber were souls in deep quiet prayer, some already full of light proceeded to the banqueting hall straight away - the Saints. Others produced their hearts for inspection some were nearly all covered in grime with only a little chink of light showing. Angels went on their knees and prayed and I could see Jesus on the Cross and the Angels used Jesus' blood and water and burnished the hearts clean, they then re-clothed the souls in a white garment and they entered the banqueting hall.
A feeling that Jesus was telling us that it is possible to go straight to Heaven. If we sin we have to keep going to the font of Jesus' blood and water; eventually we will shine and be a reflection of Him but not by our deeds but by His Mercy in other words His Mercy will change us.
Also our gifts given by the Holy Spirit are for the building up of His Church and not to be used as some form of kudos or power of our own (this is what Judas did). Jesus gifted his apostles to lead his people to him and the Father . Those same apostles through his mercy and his gifting became Saints.
Jesus the Font , the receptacle, of the Grace of Mercy that frees us by the action of the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 1 v 11-24
Paul Called by God
11 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.
13 For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. 14 I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. 17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus.
18 Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days. 19 I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother. 20 I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie.
21 Then I went to Syria and Cilicia. 22 I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they praised God because of me.
St Paul a persecutor of the Church became one of it's greatest Saints!
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
A Royal Priesthood
Notes from meeting of 26 October
A picture of this prayer group along with many others all praising and praying. A light emanated from the praise and prayer of each person and rose upward and as the praise grew the light got bigger and rose further upwards. The light seemed to dispel the darkness and gloom until it reached the very Heavens.
Then four persons filled with light were trumpeting and the light seemed to be conveyed higher and higher to the very Throne of God.
Jesus stood in front of the Throne robed in gold priestly vestments full of light. Jesus then gathered the Light which against him seemed feeble and yet when he gathered it the His Heart it magnified and grew brighter falling back upon us and the world in turn magnifying the light in us, clothing us in a garment of His line it was as though we had become a Holy Army working in the Light of Christ.
With the picture were the words ' You are a Royal Priesthood and a Holy Nation. Remain in Me as I remain in you'.
Hebrews 4 v 14- 16
Jesus the Great High Priest
14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
A picture of this prayer group along with many others all praising and praying. A light emanated from the praise and prayer of each person and rose upward and as the praise grew the light got bigger and rose further upwards. The light seemed to dispel the darkness and gloom until it reached the very Heavens.
Then four persons filled with light were trumpeting and the light seemed to be conveyed higher and higher to the very Throne of God.
Jesus stood in front of the Throne robed in gold priestly vestments full of light. Jesus then gathered the Light which against him seemed feeble and yet when he gathered it the His Heart it magnified and grew brighter falling back upon us and the world in turn magnifying the light in us, clothing us in a garment of His line it was as though we had become a Holy Army working in the Light of Christ.
With the picture were the words ' You are a Royal Priesthood and a Holy Nation. Remain in Me as I remain in you'.
Hebrews 4 v 14- 16
Jesus the Great High Priest
14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
1 Peter 2 v 9
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
A picture of drummers drumming as if giving us a wake up call
Isaiah 43 v 1 -13
Israel’s Only Savior
1 But now, this is what the LORD says—
he who created you, Jacob,
he who formed you, Israel:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
3 For I am the LORD your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I give Egypt for your ransom,
Cush and Seba in your stead.
4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you,
I will give people in exchange for you,
nations in exchange for your life.
5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you;
I will bring your children from the east
and gather you from the west.
6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’
and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’
Bring my sons from afar
and my daughters from the ends of the earth—
7 everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
8 Lead out those who have eyes but are blind,
who have ears but are deaf.
9 All the nations gather together
and the peoples assemble.
Which of their gods foretold this
and proclaimed to us the former things?
Let them bring in their witnesses to prove they were right,
so that others may hear and say, “It is true.”
10 “You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD,
“and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me.
11 I, even I, am the LORD,
and apart from me there is no savior.
12 I have revealed and saved and proclaimed—
I, and not some foreign god among you.
You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “that I am God.
13 Yes, and from ancient days I am he.
No one can deliver out of my hand.
When I act, who can reverse it?”
Increase, enlarge our hearts.
Widen your tent
Isaiah 54 v 1-8
The Future Glory of Zion
1 “Sing, barren woman,
you who never bore a child;
burst into song, shout for joy,
you who were never in labor;
because more are the children of the desolate woman
than of her who has a husband,”
says the LORD.
2 “Enlarge the place of your tent,
stretch your tent curtains wide,
do not hold back;
lengthen your cords,
strengthen your stakes.
3 For you will spread out to the right and to the left;
your descendants will dispossess nations
and settle in their desolate cities.
4 “Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame.
Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated.
You will forget the shame of your youth
and remember no more the reproach of your widowhood.
5 For your Maker is your husband—
the LORD Almighty is his name—
the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer;
he is called the God of all the earth.
6 The LORD will call you back
as if you were a wife deserted and distressed in spirit—
a wife who married young,
only to be rejected,” says your God.
7 “For a brief moment I abandoned you,
but with deep compassion I will bring you back.
8 In a surge of anger
I hid my face from you for a moment,
but with everlasting kindness
I will have compassion on you,”
says the LORD your Redeemer.
Many people united as one.
Many voices singing with one voice.
Many hearts loving with one heart.
Many hearts pulsing and beating with the love of one heart - that of Jesus
Saturday, 30 October 2010
A Meditation on Suffering
A MEDITATION ON SUFFERING
I asked God for strength
that I might achieve.
I was made weak
that I may learn to obey.
I asked for health
that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity
that I might do better things.
I asked for power
that I might be happy.
I was given weakness
that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things
that I might enjoy life.
I was given life
that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for
but everything I had hoped for;
almost despite myself
my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men
most richly blessed.
I asked God for strength
that I might achieve.
I was made weak
that I may learn to obey.
I asked for health
that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity
that I might do better things.
I asked for power
that I might be happy.
I was given weakness
that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things
that I might enjoy life.
I was given life
that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for
but everything I had hoped for;
almost despite myself
my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men
most richly blessed.
Friday, 22 October 2010
The Cross of Peace
Notes of meeting on 19 October 2010
Picture of Jesus on the Cross calling out in despair, Our Lady was quietly praying and weeping.
despite all the savagery of the Cross through Christ's terrible death and shedding of his life blood
this same Cross became the Cross of Peace, and emblem a sign to all in the world that anyone looking upon it would feel the healing through Jesus' blood Many people were being led to the Cross, people we wouldn't normally associate with goodness, but once led there, how transformed became their lives and so they became goodness.
It was felt that God was showing us that we should rejoice, because the fullness of the work of the Cross will become more apparent and that we are so blessed to live in union with Jesus on the Cross.
We have to pray and have compassion on those who steadfastly reject the truth, praying always for hearts to change and for healing to take place in Jesus' name and in his precious blood.
Many nations bowing before the Cross, and if we pray hard even more nations and religions which hate us will do so.
So rejoice and pray a lot especially before the Cross of Jesus.
Acts 4 v 5 -12
5The next day the rulers, elders and teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and the other men of the high priest's family. 7They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: "By what power or what name did you do this?"
8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! 9If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, 10then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11He is
" 'the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.' 12Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Psalm 96
1 Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. 3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 4 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. 5 For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. 6 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary. 7 Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts. 9 Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. 10 Say among the nations, "The LORD reigns." The world is firmly established, it cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity. 11 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it; 12 let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy; 13 they will sing before the LORD, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his truth.
Mark 14 v 32 - 41
Gethsemane
32They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." 33He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. 34"My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death," he said to them. "Stay here and keep watch."
35Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. 36"Abba,Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."
37Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Simon," he said to Peter, "are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? 38Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
39Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. 40When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.
41Returning the third time, he said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
Isaiah 58 v 5 -9
5 Is this the kind of fast I have chosen,
only a day for a man to humble himself?
Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed
and for lying on sackcloth and ashes?
Is that what you call a fast,
a day acceptable to the LORD ?
6 "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe him,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.
9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;
you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.
Picture of Jesus on the Cross calling out in despair, Our Lady was quietly praying and weeping.
despite all the savagery of the Cross through Christ's terrible death and shedding of his life blood
this same Cross became the Cross of Peace, and emblem a sign to all in the world that anyone looking upon it would feel the healing through Jesus' blood Many people were being led to the Cross, people we wouldn't normally associate with goodness, but once led there, how transformed became their lives and so they became goodness.
It was felt that God was showing us that we should rejoice, because the fullness of the work of the Cross will become more apparent and that we are so blessed to live in union with Jesus on the Cross.
We have to pray and have compassion on those who steadfastly reject the truth, praying always for hearts to change and for healing to take place in Jesus' name and in his precious blood.
Many nations bowing before the Cross, and if we pray hard even more nations and religions which hate us will do so.
So rejoice and pray a lot especially before the Cross of Jesus.
Acts 4 v 5 -12
5The next day the rulers, elders and teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and the other men of the high priest's family. 7They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: "By what power or what name did you do this?"
8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! 9If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, 10then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11He is
" 'the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.' 12Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Psalm 96
1 Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. 3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 4 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. 5 For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. 6 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary. 7 Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts. 9 Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. 10 Say among the nations, "The LORD reigns." The world is firmly established, it cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity. 11 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it; 12 let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy; 13 they will sing before the LORD, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his truth.
Mark 14 v 32 - 41
Gethsemane
32They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." 33He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. 34"My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death," he said to them. "Stay here and keep watch."
35Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. 36"Abba,Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."
37Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Simon," he said to Peter, "are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? 38Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
39Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. 40When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.
41Returning the third time, he said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
Isaiah 58 v 5 -9
5 Is this the kind of fast I have chosen,
only a day for a man to humble himself?
Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed
and for lying on sackcloth and ashes?
Is that what you call a fast,
a day acceptable to the LORD ?
6 "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe him,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.
9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;
you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.
Monday, 18 October 2010
Mother of God - Theotokos
Someone directed me to the links below that relate to Pope Benedict's unscripted homily at the first session of the special synod on the Middle East.
He gives a wonderful insight into the meaning of the title "Theotokos".
Please take time to read them if you can.
http://catholicism.about.com/b/2010/10/15/pope-benedict-on-the-churchs-marian-doctrine.htm?nl=1
http://chiesa.espresso.repubblica.it/articolo/1345109?eng=y
Saturday, 16 October 2010
Magnificat
Notes of meeting on 12 October 2010
Picture of Jesus carrying his Cross then of Mary being assumed into Heaven, she looked so serene and yet ecstatic and full of grace, so beautiful.
She had followed the way of the Cross so completely entering fully into the pain , humiliation and sorrow as only one so close to Jesus could. Yet this is what is asked of each of us, to immolate ourselves body and soul to be one with her son Jesus as she was and is. Mary even did this when not in Jesus' physical company she prayed and was with Him her heart to His Heart.
Why wasn't Our Lady taken up to Heaven straight after Jesus ascended?
Could it be that God still had work for Our Lady here on earth, mainly the nurturing and mothering of the new Christian Church and witnessing to her Son's death and Resurrection. She has never stopped this care of the Church or of us her children.
When God finally lifted her up to Heaven body and soul she was and is Holy and Full of Grace our perfect model.
Even though we are imperfect if we seek God's forgiveness and mercy He will forgive us and honour us, he has after all made provision for our final perfection in Purgatory. This is great gift of Love and Mercy for his people to correct us and bring us to the Blessed State for Heaven.
Mary continues to nurture her children towards her son Jesus and his Most Holy Catholic Church that her Son died on the Cross for. The Church was born through the Passion, Death, Resurrection, Ascension of Jesus and the sending of the Spirit.
As Mary bore Jesus we turn to her confident that she is loyal and powerful leading her children home to her son Jesus and the holy destination of Heaven.
Let's keep our eyes fixed on Him as Mary his Mother and our Mother has always done.
Thank you Lord God for the gift of Mary who nurtures and mothers us pointing us to Jesus.
Her heart is so full of the love of the Father, Son and Spirit that she continually gives praise to God. Her heart resounds with praise......
Luke 1:46-56 (New International Version)
Mary's Song - Magnificat
46And Mary said:
"My soul glorifies the Lord
47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55to Abraham and his descendants forever,
even as he said to our fathers."
Picture of Jesus carrying his Cross then of Mary being assumed into Heaven, she looked so serene and yet ecstatic and full of grace, so beautiful.
She had followed the way of the Cross so completely entering fully into the pain , humiliation and sorrow as only one so close to Jesus could. Yet this is what is asked of each of us, to immolate ourselves body and soul to be one with her son Jesus as she was and is. Mary even did this when not in Jesus' physical company she prayed and was with Him her heart to His Heart.
Why wasn't Our Lady taken up to Heaven straight after Jesus ascended?
Could it be that God still had work for Our Lady here on earth, mainly the nurturing and mothering of the new Christian Church and witnessing to her Son's death and Resurrection. She has never stopped this care of the Church or of us her children.
When God finally lifted her up to Heaven body and soul she was and is Holy and Full of Grace our perfect model.
Even though we are imperfect if we seek God's forgiveness and mercy He will forgive us and honour us, he has after all made provision for our final perfection in Purgatory. This is great gift of Love and Mercy for his people to correct us and bring us to the Blessed State for Heaven.
Mary continues to nurture her children towards her son Jesus and his Most Holy Catholic Church that her Son died on the Cross for. The Church was born through the Passion, Death, Resurrection, Ascension of Jesus and the sending of the Spirit.
As Mary bore Jesus we turn to her confident that she is loyal and powerful leading her children home to her son Jesus and the holy destination of Heaven.
Let's keep our eyes fixed on Him as Mary his Mother and our Mother has always done.
Thank you Lord God for the gift of Mary who nurtures and mothers us pointing us to Jesus.
Her heart is so full of the love of the Father, Son and Spirit that she continually gives praise to God. Her heart resounds with praise......
Luke 1:46-56 (New International Version)
Mary's Song - Magnificat
46And Mary said:
"My soul glorifies the Lord
47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55to Abraham and his descendants forever,
even as he said to our fathers."
Thursday, 7 October 2010
The Lord is my Shepherd
Notes of meeting on 6 October 2010
Psalm 23 (New International Version)
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Picture of dove of peace that sends the light of peace into our hearts.
In the stillness and quietness of our hearts he will teach us.
John 16 v 13 and v 33
13But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you.
33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Matthew 6:25-34 (New International Version)
Do Not Worry
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Thank you Jesus that you are our Good Shepherd, that you lead and guide us even through the difficulties we face. Thank you that you want to give us your gift of peace and that you want to teach us.
Psalm 23 (New International Version)
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Picture of dove of peace that sends the light of peace into our hearts.
In the stillness and quietness of our hearts he will teach us.
John 16 v 13 and v 33
13But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you.
33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Matthew 6:25-34 (New International Version)
Do Not Worry
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Thank you Jesus that you are our Good Shepherd, that you lead and guide us even through the difficulties we face. Thank you that you want to give us your gift of peace and that you want to teach us.
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Comfort my people
Notes of meeting and celebration of the Mass on 28 September 2010
Comfort my people.
Call to be Holy as God is holy.
Picture of the Heart of Mary taken and immolated within the Heart of Jesus, the love and light she receives is passed on to a small heart (representing the group or each individual) which in turn passes this love and light on to other small hearts.
Mass readings : Job 3 v 1-3, 11-17, 20-23 and Luke 9 v 51 - 56
Job 3 v 1-3, 11-17, 20-23
Job Speaks
1 After this, Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. 2 He said:
3 "May the day of my birth perish,
and the night it was said, 'A boy is born!'
11 "Why did I not perish at birth,
and die as I came from the womb?
12 Why were there knees to receive me
and breasts that I might be nursed?
13 For now I would be lying down in peace;
I would be asleep and at rest
14 with kings and counselors of the earth,
who built for themselves places now lying in ruins,
15 with rulers who had gold,
who filled their houses with silver.
16 Or why was I not hidden in the ground like a stillborn child,
like an infant who never saw the light of day?
17 There the wicked cease from turmoil,
and there the weary are at rest.
20 "Why is light given to those in misery,
and life to the bitter of soul,
21 to those who long for death that does not come,
who search for it more than for hidden treasure,
22 who are filled with gladness
and rejoice when they reach the grave?
23 Why is life given to a man
whose way is hidden,
whom God has hedged in?
Luke 9 v 51 - 56
Samaritan Opposition
51As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. 54When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?" 55But Jesus turned and rebuked them, 56and they went to another village.
Take on the sufferings of others
I have laid out the path before you... follow it
Philippians 2 v 1 -16
Imitating Christ's Humility
1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Shining as Stars
12Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
14Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe 16as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.
Isaiah 40 v 27 - 31
(this Chapter starts with the words "Comfort my people"!)
27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and complain, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the LORD;
my cause is disregarded by my God"?
28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
The overall theme of the meeting seemed to be that of comforting others being compassionate to others in their difficulties and distress and with ourselves in our own difficulties. We are not to be judgemental of others but be merciful. Also to accept that suffering has a purpose and can lead us to look at things in a new way and lead to renewal and a strengthening - not that we want suffering or that God in some way wants us to suffer but rather he can use suffering in a redemptive way - all things can work for good!
Comfort my people.
Call to be Holy as God is holy.
Picture of the Heart of Mary taken and immolated within the Heart of Jesus, the love and light she receives is passed on to a small heart (representing the group or each individual) which in turn passes this love and light on to other small hearts.
Mass readings : Job 3 v 1-3, 11-17, 20-23 and Luke 9 v 51 - 56
Job 3 v 1-3, 11-17, 20-23
Job Speaks
1 After this, Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. 2 He said:
3 "May the day of my birth perish,
and the night it was said, 'A boy is born!'
11 "Why did I not perish at birth,
and die as I came from the womb?
12 Why were there knees to receive me
and breasts that I might be nursed?
13 For now I would be lying down in peace;
I would be asleep and at rest
14 with kings and counselors of the earth,
who built for themselves places now lying in ruins,
15 with rulers who had gold,
who filled their houses with silver.
16 Or why was I not hidden in the ground like a stillborn child,
like an infant who never saw the light of day?
17 There the wicked cease from turmoil,
and there the weary are at rest.
20 "Why is light given to those in misery,
and life to the bitter of soul,
21 to those who long for death that does not come,
who search for it more than for hidden treasure,
22 who are filled with gladness
and rejoice when they reach the grave?
23 Why is life given to a man
whose way is hidden,
whom God has hedged in?
Luke 9 v 51 - 56
Samaritan Opposition
51As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. 54When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?" 55But Jesus turned and rebuked them, 56and they went to another village.
Take on the sufferings of others
I have laid out the path before you... follow it
Philippians 2 v 1 -16
Imitating Christ's Humility
1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Shining as Stars
12Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
14Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe 16as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.
Isaiah 40 v 27 - 31
(this Chapter starts with the words "Comfort my people"!)
27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and complain, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the LORD;
my cause is disregarded by my God"?
28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
The overall theme of the meeting seemed to be that of comforting others being compassionate to others in their difficulties and distress and with ourselves in our own difficulties. We are not to be judgemental of others but be merciful. Also to accept that suffering has a purpose and can lead us to look at things in a new way and lead to renewal and a strengthening - not that we want suffering or that God in some way wants us to suffer but rather he can use suffering in a redemptive way - all things can work for good!
Many thanks to Fr. Bill Rooke for celebrating Mass with us and congratulations to him on 40 years of Priesthood
Wednesday, 22 September 2010
Embrace My Cross
Notes of meeting on 21 September 2010
Picture, received at Lourdes on the feast of the Triumph of the Cross and shared at the group, of Jesus carrying his Cross hovering over Lourdes and then seemed to go through all other countries, lastly reaching England, then reaching Stockton and surrounding areas , finally ending up over St Mary's and the Prayer Group. Here Jesus stopped entered our room still carrying the Cross. All hearts turn towards the Cross and all hearts received a small gold cross which seemed to grow larger within each heart and radiate a golden light that seemed to draw others to receive the light.
Jesus says:
"Embrace my Cross , by choosing to carry it you choose life, for death to oneself brings life, you align yourselves with Heaven and my wish to draw all men to me. This road, the carrying of the cross with perseverance is the quickest road to Heaven and Bliss.
I thank you little flock for becoming love, love that draws others to that love."
Hebrews 13:20-21 (New Living Translation)
20 Now may the God of peace—
who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus,
the great Shepherd of the sheep,
and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood—
21 may he equip you with all you need
for doing his will.
May he produce in you,
through the power of Jesus Christ,
every good thing that is pleasing to him.
All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.
2 Corinthians 9 v 6 - 14
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9As it is written:
"He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever."
10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
12This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Thank you Lord that you implant in our hearts the gift of your Cross , the Cross through which you brought us salvation, forgiveness and healing. May the light of your glorious Cross shine within us and help us draw others to you.
Thank you Lord that you supply us with all that we need to enlarge your harvest, you supply us with the graces, blessing and gifts we need to undertake the work you call us to. Lord lead us , guide us. Amen
Picture, received at Lourdes on the feast of the Triumph of the Cross and shared at the group, of Jesus carrying his Cross hovering over Lourdes and then seemed to go through all other countries, lastly reaching England, then reaching Stockton and surrounding areas , finally ending up over St Mary's and the Prayer Group. Here Jesus stopped entered our room still carrying the Cross. All hearts turn towards the Cross and all hearts received a small gold cross which seemed to grow larger within each heart and radiate a golden light that seemed to draw others to receive the light.
Jesus says:
"Embrace my Cross , by choosing to carry it you choose life, for death to oneself brings life, you align yourselves with Heaven and my wish to draw all men to me. This road, the carrying of the cross with perseverance is the quickest road to Heaven and Bliss.
I thank you little flock for becoming love, love that draws others to that love."
Hebrews 13:20-21 (New Living Translation)
20 Now may the God of peace—
who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus,
the great Shepherd of the sheep,
and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood—
21 may he equip you with all you need
for doing his will.
May he produce in you,
through the power of Jesus Christ,
every good thing that is pleasing to him.
All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.
2 Corinthians 9 v 6 - 14
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9As it is written:
"He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever."
10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
12This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Thank you Lord that you implant in our hearts the gift of your Cross , the Cross through which you brought us salvation, forgiveness and healing. May the light of your glorious Cross shine within us and help us draw others to you.
Thank you Lord that you supply us with all that we need to enlarge your harvest, you supply us with the graces, blessing and gifts we need to undertake the work you call us to. Lord lead us , guide us. Amen
Wednesday, 8 September 2010
His Beloved
Notes of meeting on 7 September 2010
A picture of Jesus on the Cross with the full fury of God upon Him, suffering in every fibre of His being. He was taking upon Himself the full fury of the Father which should have been aimed at us. Jesus is The Sacrifice, the only one that could appease God's Wrath and Justice. He continually dies for us, God's only Blessed Son loves mankind so much that He does this willingly to save us.
There is no other way to the Father except through the Son,for who else would draw to Himself such obtuse nations and take the full punishment for us. We are a beloved people, we are His BELOVED!
Isaiah 53 (New International Version)
1 Who has believed our message
and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?
2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot,
and like a root out of dry ground.
He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by men,
a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.
Like one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4 Surely he took up our infirmities
and carried our sorrows,
yet we considered him stricken by God,
smitten by him, and afflicted.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray,
each of us has turned to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
7 He was oppressed and afflicted,
yet he did not open his mouth;
he was led like a lamb to the slaughter,
and as a sheep before her shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away.
And who can speak of his descendants?
For he was cut off from the land of the living;
for the transgression of my people he was stricken.
9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked,
and with the rich in his death,
though he had done no violence,
nor was any deceit in his mouth.
10 Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer,
and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering,
he will see his offspring and prolong his days,
and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.
11 After the suffering of his soul,
he will see the light of life and be satisfied ;
by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many,
and he will bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great,
and he will divide the spoils with the strong,
because he poured out his life unto death,
and was numbered with the transgressors.
For he bore the sin of many,
and made intercession for the transgressors.
We adore You O Christ and we praise You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.
Luke 17:20-37 (New International Version)
The Coming of the Kingdom of God
20Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, 21nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you."
22Then he said to his disciples, "The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. 23Men will tell you, 'There he is!' or 'Here he is!' Do not go running off after them. 24For the Son of Man in his day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other. 25But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.
26"Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.
28"It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. 29But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.
30"It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. 32Remember Lot's wife! 33Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. 34I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. 35Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left."
37"Where, Lord?" they asked.
He replied, "Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather."
Joel 2 V 1
Blow the trumpet in Zion;
sound the alarm on my holy hill.
Let all who live in the land tremble,
for the day of the LORD is coming.
It is close at hand-
Are we prepared for the Coming of the Lord - is the kingdom within our hearts
The Lord is generous with his gifts especially his gift of grace which he pours out and lavishes upon us.
And what more lavish and generous a gift than that of His Son Jesus who poured out his life blood for us to save us.
____________________________________________________________________
Referring back to the Lord calling us 'prayer warriors' I came across this in a book 'The Still Small Voice' by Robert Weston:
God is calling up many prayer warriors as a sheild for our prodigal continent, but let us be under no illusion: judgement has already begun, and we need to continue fervent in prayer and repentance. We are on the thinnest of ice as a continent.
A picture of Jesus on the Cross with the full fury of God upon Him, suffering in every fibre of His being. He was taking upon Himself the full fury of the Father which should have been aimed at us. Jesus is The Sacrifice, the only one that could appease God's Wrath and Justice. He continually dies for us, God's only Blessed Son loves mankind so much that He does this willingly to save us.
There is no other way to the Father except through the Son,for who else would draw to Himself such obtuse nations and take the full punishment for us. We are a beloved people, we are His BELOVED!
Isaiah 53 (New International Version)
1 Who has believed our message
and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?
2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot,
and like a root out of dry ground.
He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by men,
a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.
Like one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4 Surely he took up our infirmities
and carried our sorrows,
yet we considered him stricken by God,
smitten by him, and afflicted.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray,
each of us has turned to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
7 He was oppressed and afflicted,
yet he did not open his mouth;
he was led like a lamb to the slaughter,
and as a sheep before her shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away.
And who can speak of his descendants?
For he was cut off from the land of the living;
for the transgression of my people he was stricken.
9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked,
and with the rich in his death,
though he had done no violence,
nor was any deceit in his mouth.
10 Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer,
and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering,
he will see his offspring and prolong his days,
and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.
11 After the suffering of his soul,
he will see the light of life and be satisfied ;
by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many,
and he will bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great,
and he will divide the spoils with the strong,
because he poured out his life unto death,
and was numbered with the transgressors.
For he bore the sin of many,
and made intercession for the transgressors.
We adore You O Christ and we praise You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.
Luke 17:20-37 (New International Version)
The Coming of the Kingdom of God
20Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, 21nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you."
22Then he said to his disciples, "The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. 23Men will tell you, 'There he is!' or 'Here he is!' Do not go running off after them. 24For the Son of Man in his day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other. 25But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.
26"Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.
28"It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. 29But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.
30"It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. 32Remember Lot's wife! 33Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. 34I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. 35Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left."
37"Where, Lord?" they asked.
He replied, "Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather."
Joel 2 V 1
Blow the trumpet in Zion;
sound the alarm on my holy hill.
Let all who live in the land tremble,
for the day of the LORD is coming.
It is close at hand-
Are we prepared for the Coming of the Lord - is the kingdom within our hearts
The Lord is generous with his gifts especially his gift of grace which he pours out and lavishes upon us.
And what more lavish and generous a gift than that of His Son Jesus who poured out his life blood for us to save us.
____________________________________________________________________
Referring back to the Lord calling us 'prayer warriors' I came across this in a book 'The Still Small Voice' by Robert Weston:
God is calling up many prayer warriors as a sheild for our prodigal continent, but let us be under no illusion: judgement has already begun, and we need to continue fervent in prayer and repentance. We are on the thinnest of ice as a continent.
Wednesday, 1 September 2010
Welcome to the battle
Notes of meeting on 31 August 2010
Welcome to the battle, are you ready for the fight against spiritual forces.
Equip yourselves with the Armour of God.
Ephesians 6 v 10 - 20
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Picture of Jesus on the Cross blood and water flowing from him onto a hard rock that is softened by the flow and brought to new life.
Living water
Ephesians 3 v 14 - 21
14For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
20Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Isaiah 56 v 1 - 8
1 This is what the LORD says:
"Maintain justice
and do what is right,
for my salvation is close at hand
and my righteousness will soon be revealed.
2 Blessed is the man who does this,
the man who holds it fast,
who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it,
and keeps his hand from doing any evil."
3 Let no foreigner who has bound himself to the LORD say,
"The LORD will surely exclude me from his people."
And let not any eunuch complain,
"I am only a dry tree."
4 For this is what the LORD says:
"To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,
who choose what pleases me
and hold fast to my covenant-
5 to them I will give within my temple and its walls
a memorial and a name
better than sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name
that will not be cut off.
6 And foreigners who bind themselves to the LORD
to serve him,
to love the name of the LORD,
and to worship him,
all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it
and who hold fast to my covenant-
7 these I will bring to my holy mountain
and give them joy in my house of prayer.
Their burnt offerings and sacrifices
will be accepted on my altar;
for my house will be called
a house of prayer for all nations."
8 The Sovereign LORD declares—
he who gathers the exiles of Israel:
"I will gather still others to them
besides those already gathered."
The Lord can save even those outside the Church - no one is outside God's love and mercy and justice.
Are we using our Gifts with integrity ('integrity' also translates as 'righteousness' or 'truth') and authenticity not for our own glory or prestige. Do we bear the Fruit of the Spirit especially love in our lives and in the use of our gifts.
see:
Galations 5 v 22 - 23
22 But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfullnes, 23 humility, and self-control. There is no law against such things as these.
1 Corinthians 13 .
1If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
1 Corinthians 14
1Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.
It would be profitable to read all of Chapters 13 and 14 of 1 Corinthians which contain some great teaching on the gifts and how to use them with integrity.
Moses is an example of an intercessor pleading with God for the people, that is both God's chosen people and Moses own people the Israelites. Moses reminds God of the promises he has made with regard to the people.
God continues to love his people no matter how far they remove themselves from him. Are we called to pray for our own people that is our Country, our Church, all Christians, and indeed the whole of humankind?
Bind up the broken hearted
I lost my notes from the meeting so apologies for anything that was missed - if anyone feels something important has been left out please let me know. Stephen
Welcome to the battle, are you ready for the fight against spiritual forces.
Equip yourselves with the Armour of God.
Ephesians 6 v 10 - 20
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Picture of Jesus on the Cross blood and water flowing from him onto a hard rock that is softened by the flow and brought to new life.
Living water
Ephesians 3 v 14 - 21
14For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
20Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Isaiah 56 v 1 - 8
1 This is what the LORD says:
"Maintain justice
and do what is right,
for my salvation is close at hand
and my righteousness will soon be revealed.
2 Blessed is the man who does this,
the man who holds it fast,
who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it,
and keeps his hand from doing any evil."
3 Let no foreigner who has bound himself to the LORD say,
"The LORD will surely exclude me from his people."
And let not any eunuch complain,
"I am only a dry tree."
4 For this is what the LORD says:
"To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,
who choose what pleases me
and hold fast to my covenant-
5 to them I will give within my temple and its walls
a memorial and a name
better than sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name
that will not be cut off.
6 And foreigners who bind themselves to the LORD
to serve him,
to love the name of the LORD,
and to worship him,
all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it
and who hold fast to my covenant-
7 these I will bring to my holy mountain
and give them joy in my house of prayer.
Their burnt offerings and sacrifices
will be accepted on my altar;
for my house will be called
a house of prayer for all nations."
8 The Sovereign LORD declares—
he who gathers the exiles of Israel:
"I will gather still others to them
besides those already gathered."
The Lord can save even those outside the Church - no one is outside God's love and mercy and justice.
Are we using our Gifts with integrity ('integrity' also translates as 'righteousness' or 'truth') and authenticity not for our own glory or prestige. Do we bear the Fruit of the Spirit especially love in our lives and in the use of our gifts.
see:
Galations 5 v 22 - 23
22 But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfullnes, 23 humility, and self-control. There is no law against such things as these.
1 Corinthians 13 .
1If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
1 Corinthians 14
1Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.
It would be profitable to read all of Chapters 13 and 14 of 1 Corinthians which contain some great teaching on the gifts and how to use them with integrity.
Moses is an example of an intercessor pleading with God for the people, that is both God's chosen people and Moses own people the Israelites. Moses reminds God of the promises he has made with regard to the people.
God continues to love his people no matter how far they remove themselves from him. Are we called to pray for our own people that is our Country, our Church, all Christians, and indeed the whole of humankind?
Bind up the broken hearted
I lost my notes from the meeting so apologies for anything that was missed - if anyone feels something important has been left out please let me know. Stephen
Wednesday, 25 August 2010
Called out of darkness
Notes of meeting 24 August 2010
Picture of a great banquet in a room with many people seated at tables but some seats are empty.
There is a door to the banqueting hall that is closed and outside in the darkness is a man and the people inside are praying that the man may enter. Mary asks Jesus to give the man the extra grace he needs to enter and she opens the door to him and he enters in.
As at the Wedding Feast of Cana Mary intercedes with Jesus for him to satisfy others needs.
1 Peter 2 v 9 - 10
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Ephesians 5 v 6 - 20
6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7Therefore do not be partners with them.
8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. 18Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Remember no prayer goes unanswered. Remember that the moment a thing seems wrong to you or a persons actions are not what you think they should be, at that moment begins your obligation and responsibility to pray for that person to be different.
Face your responsibilities what is wrong in your country, its statesmen ,its laws ,its people ? Think out quietly and make these matters your prayer matters. You will see lives you never touch altered. Laws made at your request ,and evil banished.
Yes live in a large sense. Live to serve. You may never go beyond one room and yet you may become one of the most powerful forces for good in the world. You may never see the mighty work you do, but I see it ,evil sees it.
OH it is a glorious life, the life of one who saves. fellow workers together with me. See this more and more. Live with me sharers of my life
Picture of a great banquet in a room with many people seated at tables but some seats are empty.
There is a door to the banqueting hall that is closed and outside in the darkness is a man and the people inside are praying that the man may enter. Mary asks Jesus to give the man the extra grace he needs to enter and she opens the door to him and he enters in.
As at the Wedding Feast of Cana Mary intercedes with Jesus for him to satisfy others needs.
1 Peter 2 v 9 - 10
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Ephesians 5 v 6 - 20
6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7Therefore do not be partners with them.
8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. 18Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Remember no prayer goes unanswered. Remember that the moment a thing seems wrong to you or a persons actions are not what you think they should be, at that moment begins your obligation and responsibility to pray for that person to be different.
Face your responsibilities what is wrong in your country, its statesmen ,its laws ,its people ? Think out quietly and make these matters your prayer matters. You will see lives you never touch altered. Laws made at your request ,and evil banished.
Yes live in a large sense. Live to serve. You may never go beyond one room and yet you may become one of the most powerful forces for good in the world. You may never see the mighty work you do, but I see it ,evil sees it.
OH it is a glorious life, the life of one who saves. fellow workers together with me. See this more and more. Live with me sharers of my life
Wednesday, 18 August 2010
Magnify the Lord
We are united in the Lord.
We are one in the Spirit.
Come closer to me in your praise, let go of your burdens as you enter into praise.
Come closer to my love, be open to the love I have for you.
Picture of Our Lady with the child Jesus in her arms - both with one arm outstretched in welcome. They have a welcoming smile and say 'Come'.
They invite many priests to come to them and enter into the golden light that surrounds them, as the priests come forward to the light they bring behind them a great number of people and as these people come forward they also bring a further great number of people. Then there is a lone figure who approaches, he cannot see that he has brought anyone - but - behind him as a result of his prayer and sacrifices and fasting there is a multitude of people coming to the light.
Our prayer and spiritual sacrifices bear fruit that we are not always aware of
Luke 1:46-55 (New International Version)
The Magnificat
46And Mary said:
"My soul glorifies the Lord
47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55to Abraham and his descendants forever,
even as he said to our fathers."
Thank you Lord that you call us to be united in you, to be one in the Spirit.
Thank you that as we praise you , you come closer to us. Help us let go of our burdens so that we may more fully praise you.
Thank you for the gift of Mary who you give to us as an example of submission, intercession and co-operation. Let us be submissive to your word and will, help us to intercede for those things you call us to intercede for. Help us to co-operate with you as you lead us forward. Amen
We are one in the Spirit.
Come closer to me in your praise, let go of your burdens as you enter into praise.
Come closer to my love, be open to the love I have for you.
Picture of Our Lady with the child Jesus in her arms - both with one arm outstretched in welcome. They have a welcoming smile and say 'Come'.
They invite many priests to come to them and enter into the golden light that surrounds them, as the priests come forward to the light they bring behind them a great number of people and as these people come forward they also bring a further great number of people. Then there is a lone figure who approaches, he cannot see that he has brought anyone - but - behind him as a result of his prayer and sacrifices and fasting there is a multitude of people coming to the light.
Our prayer and spiritual sacrifices bear fruit that we are not always aware of
Luke 1:46-55 (New International Version)
The Magnificat
46And Mary said:
"My soul glorifies the Lord
47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55to Abraham and his descendants forever,
even as he said to our fathers."
Thank you Lord that you call us to be united in you, to be one in the Spirit.
Thank you that as we praise you , you come closer to us. Help us let go of our burdens so that we may more fully praise you.
Thank you for the gift of Mary who you give to us as an example of submission, intercession and co-operation. Let us be submissive to your word and will, help us to intercede for those things you call us to intercede for. Help us to co-operate with you as you lead us forward. Amen
Wednesday, 11 August 2010
Leave our burdens at the Cross
Notes of meeting 27 July 2010
Picture of Jesus on the Cross with blood and water flowing from Him over the earth, the people, wheat fields, crops and vineyards.
There is a rich harvest but the labourers are few.
We must leave our burdens at the Cross to make us more effective in our work and gain the Lord's strength.
I John 1 v 1 - 10
The Word of Life
1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete.
Walking in the light
5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
We must build on the foundations we have started and move from milk to solid food. We are called to maturity as Christians.
See the following scriptures:
Isaiah 58 v 12
Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins
and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls,
Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.
Zechariah 8 v 9
This is what the LORD Almighty says: "You who now hear these words spoken by the prophets who were there when the foundation was laid for the house of the LORD Almighty, let your hands be strong so that the temple may be built.
Hebrews 6 v 1
Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death,and of faith in God, 2instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And God permitting, we will do so.
1 Corinthians 3 v 11
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus
Christ.
I Corinthians 3 v 2
I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.
Hebrews 5 v 14
But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Picture of Jesus on the Cross with blood and water flowing from Him over the earth, the people, wheat fields, crops and vineyards.
There is a rich harvest but the labourers are few.
We must leave our burdens at the Cross to make us more effective in our work and gain the Lord's strength.
I John 1 v 1 - 10
The Word of Life
1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete.
Walking in the light
5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
We must build on the foundations we have started and move from milk to solid food. We are called to maturity as Christians.
See the following scriptures:
Isaiah 58 v 12
Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins
and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls,
Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.
Zechariah 8 v 9
This is what the LORD Almighty says: "You who now hear these words spoken by the prophets who were there when the foundation was laid for the house of the LORD Almighty, let your hands be strong so that the temple may be built.
Hebrews 6 v 1
Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death,and of faith in God, 2instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And God permitting, we will do so.
1 Corinthians 3 v 11
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus
Christ.
I Corinthians 3 v 2
I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.
Hebrews 5 v 14
But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Monday, 26 July 2010
My Beloved Prayer Warriors
Notes of meeting 20 July 2010
A Picture of people in clunky heavy armour, they were discarding it so as to come into the presence of the Holy Eucharist, the Light.
These people are you and I, ordinary, yet gifted with the ability to pray and praise.
As the people prayed the light got brighter, and they were re-clothed in armour of light, this fitted like a second skin, breathable, pliable and flexible. The people prayed for others and the light got stronger, emanating from the Eucharist into them. The more they prayed, the brighter the light in them. As they praised the light got brighter and stronger, others started to notice the light in them and so followed them to the light of the Eucharist. And so the light spread and grew in size covering the darkness.
I could see a being in the darkness it didn’t like the light growing, so it threw stones and arrows at the people of light, but nothing could prevail against the light as Jesus had already equipped them in the armour of light and love. In our armour of light we were free to pray and praise for others to come and so join us.
With the picture were the words “My Beloved Prayer Warriors”
Also given was the reading from Matthew of the lost sheep -
Mathew 18 v 10 - 14
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
10"See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.
12"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? 13And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. 14In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.
Also see Ephesians 6 v 10 - 20
The Armour of God
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
19Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
As storm is coming, a storm of the Spirit. The world may see it as a catastrophe. The world has fallen so far from God it does not recognizing its need of repentance.. The Lord wants to restore the world and our local area to bring Spiritual renewal not just economic renewal.
I delight in your praise. I delight in your seeking my will
Dancing and rejoicing in heaven over the repentant sinner. You are invited to the wedding feast because you are part of my family.
A powerful river, the ceaseless flow of God’s grace, flowing to the sea. As we pray those we pray for move with us along the river pf grace. “Believe in the power of my love and my blood for all those you pray for”
Ezekiel 47 v 1 - 12
The River From the Temple
1 The man brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water coming out from under the threshold of the temple toward the east (for the temple faced east). The water was coming down from under the south side of the temple, south of the altar. 2 He then brought me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the outer gate facing east, and the water was flowing from the south side.
3 As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and then led me through water that was ankle-deep. 4 He measured off another thousand cubits and led me through water that was knee-deep. He measured off another thousand and led me through water that was up to the waist. 5 He measured off another thousand, but now it was a river that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough to swim in—a river that no one could cross. 6 He asked me, "Son of man, do you see this?"
Then he led me back to the bank of the river. 7 When I arrived there, I saw a great number of trees on each side of the river. 8 He said to me, "This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, where it enters the Sea. When it empties into the Sea, the water there becomes fresh. 9 Swarms of living creatures will live wherever the river flows. There will be large numbers of fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows everything will live. 10 Fishermen will stand along the shore; from En Gedi to En Eglaim there will be places for spreading nets. The fish will be of many kinds—like the fish of the Great Sea. 11 But the swamps and marshes will not become fresh; they will be left for salt. 12 Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing."
Revelation 22
The River of Life
1Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
Blow the trumpet in Zion
See Joel 2 (extracts below)
1 Blow the trumpet in Zion;
sound the alarm on my holy hill.
Let all who live in the land tremble,
for the day of the LORD is coming.
It is close at hand-
2 a day of darkness and gloom,
a day of clouds and blackness. …..
10 Before them the earth shakes,
the sky trembles,
the sun and moon are darkened,
and the stars no longer shine.
11 The LORD thunders
at the head of his army;
his forces are beyond number,
and mighty are those who obey his command.
The day of the LORD is great;
it is dreadful.
Who can endure it?
12 "Even now," declares the LORD,
"return to me with all your heart,
with fasting and weeping and mourning."
13 Rend your heart
and not your garments.
Return to the LORD your God,
for he is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and abounding in love,
and he relents from sending calamity.
14 Who knows? He may turn and have pity
and leave behind a blessing—
grain offerings and drink offerings
for the LORD your God.
15 Blow the trumpet in Zion,
declare a holy fast,
call a sacred assembly.
16 Gather the people,
consecrate the assembly;
bring together the elders,
gather the children,
those nursing at the breast.
Let the bridegroom leave his room
and the bride her chamber.
17 Let the priests, who minister before the LORD,
weep between the temple porch and the altar.
Let them say, "Spare your people, O LORD.
Do not make your inheritance an object of scorn,
a byword among the nations.
Why should they say among the peoples,
'Where is their God?' " …..
28 "And afterward,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your old men will dream dreams,
your young men will see visions.
29 Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days.
30 I will show wonders in the heavens
and on the earth,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
31 The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.
32 And everyone who calls
on the name of the LORD will be saved;
for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem
there will be deliverance,
as the LORD has said,
among the survivors
whom the LORD calls.
Interceding is ‘standing for some one’ before the Father. We bring people into the light through our prayer. We are called to a service of prayer a work of prayer.
We need as intercessor to be aware of our own sinfulness and need for repentance so God can cleanse us through the blood of Christ.
A Picture of people in clunky heavy armour, they were discarding it so as to come into the presence of the Holy Eucharist, the Light.
These people are you and I, ordinary, yet gifted with the ability to pray and praise.
As the people prayed the light got brighter, and they were re-clothed in armour of light, this fitted like a second skin, breathable, pliable and flexible. The people prayed for others and the light got stronger, emanating from the Eucharist into them. The more they prayed, the brighter the light in them. As they praised the light got brighter and stronger, others started to notice the light in them and so followed them to the light of the Eucharist. And so the light spread and grew in size covering the darkness.
I could see a being in the darkness it didn’t like the light growing, so it threw stones and arrows at the people of light, but nothing could prevail against the light as Jesus had already equipped them in the armour of light and love. In our armour of light we were free to pray and praise for others to come and so join us.
With the picture were the words “My Beloved Prayer Warriors”
Also given was the reading from Matthew of the lost sheep -
Mathew 18 v 10 - 14
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
10"See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.
12"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? 13And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. 14In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.
Also see Ephesians 6 v 10 - 20
The Armour of God
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
19Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
As storm is coming, a storm of the Spirit. The world may see it as a catastrophe. The world has fallen so far from God it does not recognizing its need of repentance.. The Lord wants to restore the world and our local area to bring Spiritual renewal not just economic renewal.
I delight in your praise. I delight in your seeking my will
Dancing and rejoicing in heaven over the repentant sinner. You are invited to the wedding feast because you are part of my family.
A powerful river, the ceaseless flow of God’s grace, flowing to the sea. As we pray those we pray for move with us along the river pf grace. “Believe in the power of my love and my blood for all those you pray for”
Ezekiel 47 v 1 - 12
The River From the Temple
1 The man brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water coming out from under the threshold of the temple toward the east (for the temple faced east). The water was coming down from under the south side of the temple, south of the altar. 2 He then brought me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the outer gate facing east, and the water was flowing from the south side.
3 As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and then led me through water that was ankle-deep. 4 He measured off another thousand cubits and led me through water that was knee-deep. He measured off another thousand and led me through water that was up to the waist. 5 He measured off another thousand, but now it was a river that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough to swim in—a river that no one could cross. 6 He asked me, "Son of man, do you see this?"
Then he led me back to the bank of the river. 7 When I arrived there, I saw a great number of trees on each side of the river. 8 He said to me, "This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, where it enters the Sea. When it empties into the Sea, the water there becomes fresh. 9 Swarms of living creatures will live wherever the river flows. There will be large numbers of fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows everything will live. 10 Fishermen will stand along the shore; from En Gedi to En Eglaim there will be places for spreading nets. The fish will be of many kinds—like the fish of the Great Sea. 11 But the swamps and marshes will not become fresh; they will be left for salt. 12 Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing."
Revelation 22
The River of Life
1Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
Blow the trumpet in Zion
See Joel 2 (extracts below)
1 Blow the trumpet in Zion;
sound the alarm on my holy hill.
Let all who live in the land tremble,
for the day of the LORD is coming.
It is close at hand-
2 a day of darkness and gloom,
a day of clouds and blackness. …..
10 Before them the earth shakes,
the sky trembles,
the sun and moon are darkened,
and the stars no longer shine.
11 The LORD thunders
at the head of his army;
his forces are beyond number,
and mighty are those who obey his command.
The day of the LORD is great;
it is dreadful.
Who can endure it?
12 "Even now," declares the LORD,
"return to me with all your heart,
with fasting and weeping and mourning."
13 Rend your heart
and not your garments.
Return to the LORD your God,
for he is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and abounding in love,
and he relents from sending calamity.
14 Who knows? He may turn and have pity
and leave behind a blessing—
grain offerings and drink offerings
for the LORD your God.
15 Blow the trumpet in Zion,
declare a holy fast,
call a sacred assembly.
16 Gather the people,
consecrate the assembly;
bring together the elders,
gather the children,
those nursing at the breast.
Let the bridegroom leave his room
and the bride her chamber.
17 Let the priests, who minister before the LORD,
weep between the temple porch and the altar.
Let them say, "Spare your people, O LORD.
Do not make your inheritance an object of scorn,
a byword among the nations.
Why should they say among the peoples,
'Where is their God?' " …..
28 "And afterward,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your old men will dream dreams,
your young men will see visions.
29 Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days.
30 I will show wonders in the heavens
and on the earth,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
31 The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.
32 And everyone who calls
on the name of the LORD will be saved;
for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem
there will be deliverance,
as the LORD has said,
among the survivors
whom the LORD calls.
Interceding is ‘standing for some one’ before the Father. We bring people into the light through our prayer. We are called to a service of prayer a work of prayer.
We need as intercessor to be aware of our own sinfulness and need for repentance so God can cleanse us through the blood of Christ.
Wednesday, 14 July 2010
Be still and receive
Notes of meeting 13 July 201
Be still.
Receive my healing;
Receive my strength;
Receive my inspiration;
Receive my love;
Receive my insight;
Receive all you need to be my disciples.
Not timidity… (See Timothy 2 v7 for God gave us a spirit not of timidity but of power and love and self-control.)
1 Corinthians 12 v 1 -13
Spiritual Gifts
1Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. 3Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.
4Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.
One Body with Many Members
12For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
Be still.
Receive my healing;
Receive my strength;
Receive my inspiration;
Receive my love;
Receive my insight;
Receive all you need to be my disciples.
Not timidity… (See Timothy 2 v7 for God gave us a spirit not of timidity but of power and love and self-control.)
1 Corinthians 12 v 1 -13
Spiritual Gifts
1Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. 3Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.
4Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.
One Body with Many Members
12For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
Monday, 12 July 2010
An urgent call for prayer
Notes of Meeting 6 July 2010
Picture of a shining white host.
First with drops of sweat dripping from it, then bleeding from the scourging, then with thorns embedded within it, then the Cross upon it almost crushing it, then the nails and the spear within it. Blood was freely flowing out on to the world.
With the picture came a feeling of the weight, the grievous pain, the loneliness, the utter abandonment, the breaking heart and the humiliation. Through this Jesus was saying how he loved mankind so much that it hurt, he died for us. Also a feeling of his sorrow that so many were indifferent to him and the cost to the Father in heaven that they ignored his loving son.
Jesus is once again asking us to pray along with his Mother for mankind to turn from the enemy and to turn back to him Jesus, and that they would look at the pitiable sight of himself suffering for love of them and they would be overcome with remorse and they would cry out to his mercy and be saved and loved.
Jesus is saying that there is an urgency, a very real need for our prayers and that he felt a great consolation and a loyalty that so many of his body were working with him by prayer, praise, sacrifice, fasting, giving of time and goods, actions of self denial, offering of pain and helping to build and heal the Kingdom. We are helping as his body in the redemptive cause.
Our praise was of great consolation to him like balm on an open wound, soothing and loving him. The opposite to indifference. If we pray like the first Christians trusting in him great things will happen which may seem impossible to us.
To demonstrate he gave the reading Acts 9 - The conversion of Saul
1 Corinthians 15 v 20 - 28
Picture of a shining white host.
First with drops of sweat dripping from it, then bleeding from the scourging, then with thorns embedded within it, then the Cross upon it almost crushing it, then the nails and the spear within it. Blood was freely flowing out on to the world.
With the picture came a feeling of the weight, the grievous pain, the loneliness, the utter abandonment, the breaking heart and the humiliation. Through this Jesus was saying how he loved mankind so much that it hurt, he died for us. Also a feeling of his sorrow that so many were indifferent to him and the cost to the Father in heaven that they ignored his loving son.
Jesus is once again asking us to pray along with his Mother for mankind to turn from the enemy and to turn back to him Jesus, and that they would look at the pitiable sight of himself suffering for love of them and they would be overcome with remorse and they would cry out to his mercy and be saved and loved.
Jesus is saying that there is an urgency, a very real need for our prayers and that he felt a great consolation and a loyalty that so many of his body were working with him by prayer, praise, sacrifice, fasting, giving of time and goods, actions of self denial, offering of pain and helping to build and heal the Kingdom. We are helping as his body in the redemptive cause.
Our praise was of great consolation to him like balm on an open wound, soothing and loving him. The opposite to indifference. If we pray like the first Christians trusting in him great things will happen which may seem impossible to us.
To demonstrate he gave the reading Acts 9 - The conversion of Saul
1 Corinthians 15 v 20 - 28
Thursday, 8 July 2010
A Holy Temple
Notes of meeting 29 June 2010
Picture of a Temple, Jesus is the cornerstone.
The temple is made up of stones that represent us. The picture changes to show Jesus on the Cross.
With Him we make up the Body of Christ and also have a share in his suffering.
See 1 Peter 2 v 4-22
As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6For it stands in Scripture:
"Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame."
7So the honour is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,
"The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,"
8and "A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence."
They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.
9But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
and Ephesians 2 v 19-22
19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
The words “JESUS - COME - RETURN” and a picture of people in the formation of a triangle moving toward a green field or pasture.
Lean on Me.
I have heard your songs of joy.
I have heard your entreaties.
I have heard your cries for mercy.
I want you to share in my love, I want to pour out my love.
God inhabits the praises of his people.
See Psalm 22 v 3 But you are holy, O you that inhabits the praises of Israel.
Matthew 10 v 34 - 42
34 “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.
35 ‘I have come to set a man against his father,
a daughter against her mother,
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
36 Your enemies will be right in your own household!’
37 “If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
40 “Anyone who receives you receives me, and anyone who receives me receives the Father who sent me. 41 If you receive a prophet as one who speaks for God, you will be given the same reward as a prophet. And if you receive righteous people because of their righteousness, you will be given a reward like theirs. 42 And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”
Ann spoke of the Lament (Sorrow) of Intercessory Praise - where we enter into the lament , sorrow , dismay of God the Father at the path people have taken. This lament at times may be difficult to shake off but we must remember that through the suffering (of the Cross) comes the Victory of Jesus.
“ there in Thine ear all trustfully we tell our tale of misery “ from the hymn Sweet Sacrament Divine. We also have our own laments misery that we must lay down before the Father and trust that as he leads us to intercede for other he will call others to intercede for us
She also spoke of the Power of Intercessory Praise - the power of the praise can intimidate us as it is something not within our control so we resist it .The praise is in the control of the Spirit at work in the body.
It’s noisy in heaven with the praise of the angels and saints there is only to be a half an hour of silence before the return of the Lord in judgement.
"And when he [the Lamb] had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour." (Rev. 8:1)
God wants to use our prayer to draw people to Him.
Picture of a Temple, Jesus is the cornerstone.
The temple is made up of stones that represent us. The picture changes to show Jesus on the Cross.
With Him we make up the Body of Christ and also have a share in his suffering.
See 1 Peter 2 v 4-22
As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6For it stands in Scripture:
"Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame."
7So the honour is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,
"The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,"
8and "A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence."
They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.
9But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
and Ephesians 2 v 19-22
19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
The words “JESUS - COME - RETURN” and a picture of people in the formation of a triangle moving toward a green field or pasture.
Lean on Me.
I have heard your songs of joy.
I have heard your entreaties.
I have heard your cries for mercy.
I want you to share in my love, I want to pour out my love.
God inhabits the praises of his people.
See Psalm 22 v 3 But you are holy, O you that inhabits the praises of Israel.
Matthew 10 v 34 - 42
34 “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.
35 ‘I have come to set a man against his father,
a daughter against her mother,
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
36 Your enemies will be right in your own household!’
37 “If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
40 “Anyone who receives you receives me, and anyone who receives me receives the Father who sent me. 41 If you receive a prophet as one who speaks for God, you will be given the same reward as a prophet. And if you receive righteous people because of their righteousness, you will be given a reward like theirs. 42 And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”
Ann spoke of the Lament (Sorrow) of Intercessory Praise - where we enter into the lament , sorrow , dismay of God the Father at the path people have taken. This lament at times may be difficult to shake off but we must remember that through the suffering (of the Cross) comes the Victory of Jesus.
“ there in Thine ear all trustfully we tell our tale of misery “ from the hymn Sweet Sacrament Divine. We also have our own laments misery that we must lay down before the Father and trust that as he leads us to intercede for other he will call others to intercede for us
She also spoke of the Power of Intercessory Praise - the power of the praise can intimidate us as it is something not within our control so we resist it .The praise is in the control of the Spirit at work in the body.
It’s noisy in heaven with the praise of the angels and saints there is only to be a half an hour of silence before the return of the Lord in judgement.
"And when he [the Lamb] had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour." (Rev. 8:1)
God wants to use our prayer to draw people to Him.
Wednesday, 23 June 2010
Wisdom
Notes of meeting on 22 June 2010
Picture of Mary with the child Jesus.
Jesus hands Mary a lily with the word 'Wisdom' written on it.
Picture of Mary with the child Jesus.
Jesus hands Mary a lily with the word 'Wisdom' written on it.
Thank you for the gift of Mary our Mother,the Seat of Wisdom.
May we be open to the gift of Wisdom - of doing God's will as Mary did.
Grant us a Spirit of Wisdom.
Romans 10 v 8 - 17
8But what does it say?
‘The word is near you,
on your lips and in your heart’
(that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); 9because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. 11The scripture says, ‘No one who believes in him will be put to shame.’ 12For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. 13For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’
14 But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? 15And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’ 16But not all have obeyed the good news; for Isaiah says, ‘Lord, who has believed our message?’ 17So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.
Lord grant us faith in you and help us to witness to you in the way you wish us to.
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
Prayer and Intercession
Notes of meeting on 15 June 2010
Picture of a field with a gate with Jesus standing in the field and the song from his Heart draws sheep to him.
Outside the field are many sheep, old, sick and lame which the other sheep bring through the gate and into the field.
The picture changes to a City of Light, Jesus is standing at an archway into the City welcoming the old, sick and lame into the City.
Our prayers and intercession help Jesus draw people to him and into the City.
God is our strength
Picture of a tree laden with all different kinds of fruit as a fruit is picked it is replaced by another fruit.
As we use our fruits and gifts in God’s service they give rise to even more fruit and gifts. God is generous and gives (gifts) in abundance
Lord help us use our fruits and gifts (particularly prayer and intercession) in your service and for the good of others.
Picture of a field with a gate with Jesus standing in the field and the song from his Heart draws sheep to him.
Outside the field are many sheep, old, sick and lame which the other sheep bring through the gate and into the field.
The picture changes to a City of Light, Jesus is standing at an archway into the City welcoming the old, sick and lame into the City.
Our prayers and intercession help Jesus draw people to him and into the City.
God is our strength
Picture of a tree laden with all different kinds of fruit as a fruit is picked it is replaced by another fruit.
As we use our fruits and gifts in God’s service they give rise to even more fruit and gifts. God is generous and gives (gifts) in abundance
Lord help us use our fruits and gifts (particularly prayer and intercession) in your service and for the good of others.
Wednesday, 9 June 2010
Children of Jesus' Light
Notes of Meeting on 8 June 2010
Picture of the Cross with light around it and Mary is at the foot of the Cross praying. From the Cross comes Jesus' light of healing for the world.
Mary asks us as Children of Jesus' Light to pray for people wherever we are (even on the bus we can pray for those around us) that they may turn to the Cross of Jesus and his Light.
1 Thessalonians 5 v 1 - 11
5Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters,* you do not need to have anything written to you. 2For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3When they say, ‘There is peace and security’, then sudden destruction will come upon them, as labour pains come upon a pregnant woman, and there will be no escape! 4But you, beloved,* are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief; 5for you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. 6So then, let us not fall asleep as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober; 7for those who sleep sleep at night, and those who are drunk get drunk at night. 8But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, and put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. 9For God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him. 11Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing.
Picture of a hill with people gathered at its foot. Some of the people are given lamps which they use to ascend the hill. At the top of the hill they place their lamps in a circle and this greater light draws the others to the top of the hill.
Matthew 5 v 13 - 16
Salt and Light
13 ‘You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.
14 ‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Mary calls us Children of Jesus' Light.
Lord we thank you for the gift of your Light open us to your Light take us from the darkness and clothe us in your light. Thank you for the light of your Cross, your love , your salvation, your Spirit.
Thank you Lord for the victory won from the Cross.
Thank you that you call us to be people of prayer and intercession for those around us who are in darkness you can use our prayers to help you draw them into your Light.
Amen
Picture of the Cross with light around it and Mary is at the foot of the Cross praying. From the Cross comes Jesus' light of healing for the world.
Mary asks us as Children of Jesus' Light to pray for people wherever we are (even on the bus we can pray for those around us) that they may turn to the Cross of Jesus and his Light.
1 Thessalonians 5 v 1 - 11
5Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters,* you do not need to have anything written to you. 2For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3When they say, ‘There is peace and security’, then sudden destruction will come upon them, as labour pains come upon a pregnant woman, and there will be no escape! 4But you, beloved,* are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief; 5for you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. 6So then, let us not fall asleep as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober; 7for those who sleep sleep at night, and those who are drunk get drunk at night. 8But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, and put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. 9For God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him. 11Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing.
Picture of a hill with people gathered at its foot. Some of the people are given lamps which they use to ascend the hill. At the top of the hill they place their lamps in a circle and this greater light draws the others to the top of the hill.
Matthew 5 v 13 - 16
Salt and Light
13 ‘You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.
14 ‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Mary calls us Children of Jesus' Light.
Lord we thank you for the gift of your Light open us to your Light take us from the darkness and clothe us in your light. Thank you for the light of your Cross, your love , your salvation, your Spirit.
Thank you Lord for the victory won from the Cross.
Thank you that you call us to be people of prayer and intercession for those around us who are in darkness you can use our prayers to help you draw them into your Light.
Amen
Saturday, 29 May 2010
Cast out the nets
Notes of meeting 25 May 2010
Psalm 74 v 12 - 23
12 But you, O God, are my king from of old;
you bring salvation upon the earth.
13 It was you who split open the sea by your power;
you broke the heads of the monster in the waters.
14 It was you who crushed the heads of Leviathan
and gave him as food to the creatures of the desert.
15 It was you who opened up springs and streams;
you dried up the ever flowing rivers.
16 The day is yours, and yours also the night;
you established the sun and moon.
17 It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth;
you made both summer and winter.
18 Remember how the enemy has mocked you, O LORD,
how foolish people have reviled your name.
19 Do not hand over the life of your dove to wild beasts;
do not forget the lives of your afflicted people forever.
20 Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land.
21 Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your name.
22 Rise up, O God, and defend your cause;
remember how fools mock you all day long.
23 Do not ignore the clamor of your adversaries,
the uproar of your enemies, which rises continually.
This psalm relates to the sovereignty of God.
Before we begin intercession we need to lay down our own burdens and concerns at the altar.
The altar is there at the feet of God in the sanctuary before his throne and this is where we leave have to leave our burdens so we can be free to intercede as he wishes and in accordance with his will so that his purposes (his kingdom) is achieved.
Your kingdom come your will be done
Intercession involves casting out our nets at the Lord's direction just as he directed Peter to cast out the nets for a catch
Luke 5 v 4-6
4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." 5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." 6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
We will not neccessarily get the full picture or story of how or where our praise is being used.Use of all our senses - body - music ministry helpful - rhythm - clapping stamping feet - dancing
Intercession takes place in the spiritual realm and we are called to partake in spiritual warfare.
The evil one will cause interference obstacles in our way - but we must move forward from our place of victory through Jesus - the victory is won
Dreams can be instructive - showing us intercession needs - let the Holy Spirit interpret the dreams (nor psychoanalyse)
see scripture (Acts) of Joel's prophecy that Peter says is fulfilled (your young men will have visions - old men dream dreams)
Acts 2 v14 -21
14Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17" 'In the last days, God says,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
18Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days,
and they will prophesy.
19I will show wonders in the heaven above
and signs on the earth below,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
20The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.
21And everyone who calls
on the name of the Lord will be saved.'
....................................................................................
Picture of a colourful beautiful sky and a pathway leading to a great colourful light with a figure representing Jesus in the midst of the light
.....................................................................................
Deep calls to deep
Do not be afraid
(Psalm 42 v 7)
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
.....................................................................................
I give you life, hope, love. I am your God
.....................................................................................
I will soothe you
.....................................................................................
Picture of Heaven. The light of God the Father, Jesus and the Spirit.
Many people are praising God and He sends his light onto the dark world.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some words from Ann on the nights word:
The strength of the praise is awesome. In many ways we all go back a long way together. What particularly grabbed my attention was this verse. I had not noticed this part before. "7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink."
There is no doubt in my heart that The Holy Spirit has called us together, meaning you and the Theotokos members and me and others who are coming to intercede. He is teaching us how to get the boat ready, how to hoist the sails, how to set sail and how to prepare the nets. He may let us fish all night but It is inconceivable that He will not eventually show us where to cast our nets. God Bless, Ann
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 74 v 12 - 23
12 But you, O God, are my king from of old;
you bring salvation upon the earth.
13 It was you who split open the sea by your power;
you broke the heads of the monster in the waters.
14 It was you who crushed the heads of Leviathan
and gave him as food to the creatures of the desert.
15 It was you who opened up springs and streams;
you dried up the ever flowing rivers.
16 The day is yours, and yours also the night;
you established the sun and moon.
17 It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth;
you made both summer and winter.
18 Remember how the enemy has mocked you, O LORD,
how foolish people have reviled your name.
19 Do not hand over the life of your dove to wild beasts;
do not forget the lives of your afflicted people forever.
20 Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land.
21 Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your name.
22 Rise up, O God, and defend your cause;
remember how fools mock you all day long.
23 Do not ignore the clamor of your adversaries,
the uproar of your enemies, which rises continually.
This psalm relates to the sovereignty of God.
Before we begin intercession we need to lay down our own burdens and concerns at the altar.
The altar is there at the feet of God in the sanctuary before his throne and this is where we leave have to leave our burdens so we can be free to intercede as he wishes and in accordance with his will so that his purposes (his kingdom) is achieved.
Your kingdom come your will be done
Intercession involves casting out our nets at the Lord's direction just as he directed Peter to cast out the nets for a catch
Luke 5 v 4-6
4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." 5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." 6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
We will not neccessarily get the full picture or story of how or where our praise is being used.Use of all our senses - body - music ministry helpful - rhythm - clapping stamping feet - dancing
Intercession takes place in the spiritual realm and we are called to partake in spiritual warfare.
The evil one will cause interference obstacles in our way - but we must move forward from our place of victory through Jesus - the victory is won
Dreams can be instructive - showing us intercession needs - let the Holy Spirit interpret the dreams (nor psychoanalyse)
see scripture (Acts) of Joel's prophecy that Peter says is fulfilled (your young men will have visions - old men dream dreams)
Acts 2 v14 -21
14Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17" 'In the last days, God says,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
18Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days,
and they will prophesy.
19I will show wonders in the heaven above
and signs on the earth below,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
20The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.
21And everyone who calls
on the name of the Lord will be saved.'
....................................................................................
Picture of a colourful beautiful sky and a pathway leading to a great colourful light with a figure representing Jesus in the midst of the light
.....................................................................................
Deep calls to deep
Do not be afraid
(Psalm 42 v 7)
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
.....................................................................................
I give you life, hope, love. I am your God
.....................................................................................
I will soothe you
.....................................................................................
Picture of Heaven. The light of God the Father, Jesus and the Spirit.
Many people are praising God and He sends his light onto the dark world.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some words from Ann on the nights word:
The strength of the praise is awesome. In many ways we all go back a long way together. What particularly grabbed my attention was this verse. I had not noticed this part before. "7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink."
There is no doubt in my heart that The Holy Spirit has called us together, meaning you and the Theotokos members and me and others who are coming to intercede. He is teaching us how to get the boat ready, how to hoist the sails, how to set sail and how to prepare the nets. He may let us fish all night but It is inconceivable that He will not eventually show us where to cast our nets. God Bless, Ann
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, 20 May 2010
Burning Bush
Notes of meeting on 18 May 2010
Picture of Jesus with our whole group (present,past and deceased members) an angel is standing beside each person with a hand on their shoulder.
There is a burning bush and as the wind blows on it sparks of flame are carried on the wind over the head of each person.
Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit
Thank you for the Spirit of Peace
Thank you for the Spirit of Gentleness
Thank you for the Spirit of Compassion
Thank you for the Spirit of Mercy
Thank you for the Spirit of Love
Picture of Jesus with our whole group (present,past and deceased members) an angel is standing beside each person with a hand on their shoulder.
There is a burning bush and as the wind blows on it sparks of flame are carried on the wind over the head of each person.
Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit
Thank you for the Spirit of Peace
Thank you for the Spirit of Gentleness
Thank you for the Spirit of Compassion
Thank you for the Spirit of Mercy
Thank you for the Spirit of Love
Wednesday, 5 May 2010
Living Water
Notes of meeting on 4 May 2010
Take up your cross and follow me.
Picture of sheep around a Rock from which flows living water. The sheep drink from the water that flows into a river and the sheep that have drank from the water bring other sheep to the river to drink.
I really do want to bless you, to prosper you.
Your strength is in me.
Open your heart mind body and spirit to me to receive the gifts that I want to give to you.
Renew your wonders in this our day as by a new Pentecost.
Grant to your Church that, being of one mind and steadfast in prayer with Mary the Mother of Jesus, and following the lead of blessed St Peter, it may advance the reign of our Divine Saviour, the reign of truth and justice, the reign of love and peace. Amen.
(Pope John Paul XXIII)
Take up your cross and follow me.
Picture of sheep around a Rock from which flows living water. The sheep drink from the water that flows into a river and the sheep that have drank from the water bring other sheep to the river to drink.
I really do want to bless you, to prosper you.
Your strength is in me.
Open your heart mind body and spirit to me to receive the gifts that I want to give to you.
Renew your wonders in this our day as by a new Pentecost.
Grant to your Church that, being of one mind and steadfast in prayer with Mary the Mother of Jesus, and following the lead of blessed St Peter, it may advance the reign of our Divine Saviour, the reign of truth and justice, the reign of love and peace. Amen.
(Pope John Paul XXIII)
Thursday, 29 April 2010
Intercession and Praise
Notes of meeting on 27 April 2010
Picture of Jesus as Good Shepherd with the sheep far away from him.
From his exposed heart emanate notes of music that express that he loves them and invites them to draw close to his heart.
Picture of a white cloth on a table (altar)
Ann Liddell shared with us on how we can move forward in intercessory praise.
To begin we should place our own needs (our hurts, difficulties, worries, sufferings) on the altar to enable our heart, mind, body, soul and spirit to focus on God the Father.
As we become focused on God the Father we can "come to our senses" that is become alert to our senses of touch, hearing, sight, taste, smell. We use our voices and whole body to enter into and push through with our praise of the Father.
As we continue in praise we may experience God showing us perhaps by a word, a vision or picture, or an awareness in our mind or heart of where our praise is being directed.
Picture of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary and many good priests joyfully moving towards them. There are also some priests in the shadows and in the darkness who are being drawn and healed by the light from the two hearts and by the witness of the good priests.
The word of God carries out what it intends to – similarly our praise carries out what God intends of it.
Picture of Jesus as Good Shepherd with the sheep far away from him.
From his exposed heart emanate notes of music that express that he loves them and invites them to draw close to his heart.
Picture of a white cloth on a table (altar)
Ann Liddell shared with us on how we can move forward in intercessory praise.
To begin we should place our own needs (our hurts, difficulties, worries, sufferings) on the altar to enable our heart, mind, body, soul and spirit to focus on God the Father.
As we become focused on God the Father we can "come to our senses" that is become alert to our senses of touch, hearing, sight, taste, smell. We use our voices and whole body to enter into and push through with our praise of the Father.
As we continue in praise we may experience God showing us perhaps by a word, a vision or picture, or an awareness in our mind or heart of where our praise is being directed.
Picture of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary and many good priests joyfully moving towards them. There are also some priests in the shadows and in the darkness who are being drawn and healed by the light from the two hearts and by the witness of the good priests.
The word of God carries out what it intends to – similarly our praise carries out what God intends of it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
