What would I do to see you smile again

What would I give to see you happy

For just a moment or two crawl out of that fox-den

I'm sorry life is rough and you feel really (******)



I wish it were me to take or share some hurt and pain

To be your sun, your rainbow, an umbrella in your rain

The wind to blow your clouds away

A paintbrush to color your world; banishing all the gray



I want to be your salt, I want to be your light

To chase away the dark of night and say that it'll be alright

But I can't do any of this and it hurts me to the core

To see you suffer and not be able to help more

Make me a channel of your peace
That wars might end and striving cease
Make me a channel of your word
And give me a way for it to be heard
Make me an instrument to sing so sweet
Of the place where Heaven and Earth shall meet
Make me less, so you are more
A call so strong: what are we waiting for?
Make me a channel of your love and grace
And faith so assured that I will one day see your face
Make me a channel of truth and light
To shine in the darkness to pierce through the night
Make me a channel for your life and your way
And grant me a channel to you when I pray
So often Lord, I pray for so many things
But my life overflows with all your blessings
I feel like patience and silence are the lessons to learn
And while others may benefit, I too will grow in turn
I wait with eager anticipation for the days to come
To watch you work will be so totally awesome

March is Saint Patrick’s Day and Green
March is still cold outside
March is trees
March is before April
March is springtime and tornadoes
March is in like a lion out like a lamb
And in like a lamb and out like a lion
March is rain and rainbows and sunshine
March is flowers
March is Black Women History Month
This is March

Make my heart beat for you and you alone. I want to spend every moment with you and when I’m not, I want to be thinking of you. Your love is greater than life itself. It’s a miracle that you could fall in love with a fool like me. You know all of my deepest secrets there is nothing I can hide from you my love. To feel you near me is to know peace and rest and when I’m scared, I feel safe when you hold me close to your chest. I’m not perfect and sometimes I fall, but know that I am sincere and earnest when I proclaim that I want to love respect and treat you like you really deserve. I want you to be the only one for me and I want for your happiness more than anything else. Help me to be all that you see in me and help me to see it too. I want to be your friend, your confidant, your other half. I want to be wholly yours. May our two hearts be joined so as to beat as one and share a bond so strong it cannot be undone? I want to wake up each morning with you next to my side and fall deeper in love with you each day. I want to keep learning about you all the time; I want to be able to be surprised years from now. I never want to be bored with loving you. I want to be so comfortable with each other for silence to not be awkward. I want to find a million different ways to show you how much I love you not just tell you I love you. I want to live selfless love and give myself up for you. I want to die to who I was and all of the obstacles that hold me back from giving me to you completely. I also know there is no such thing as perfect and there will be tough times, and I want to learn how to communicate well so that we can make it through together and come out stronger. I vow to stay by your side and help you in every way I can. All of this I want, and I am willing to do whatever it takes together to make this dream a reality forever. I love you.

Mary holds the lifeless body
As tears flow from her eyes
Does she also know that
Soon her son must rise?
Mary holds her baby's hand
So little and so frail
Does she also understand
That they would be pierced by a nail?
Mary holds her son close to her chest
When they find him teaching
Does she feel so blessed that
Even to death He is reaching?
Mary holds her son to wish him a good day
As he works with Joseph at his trade
Mary holds our hand as we walk the way
God says: see the work my hands have made!

Mary Most Holy, ****** pure and chaste
Breath of Heaven help us make haste
Let your spirit dwell within us, and walk beside
Help us glory in the cross of our Christ Crucified
By your grace and faith we have been given Christ the Child
Who calms storms or our souls when life gets wild
Help us to live by your example, show us the way to your son
** amazing that praising 10,000 years we've just begun
Bless us all and take us unto you
Pray for us and guide us straight and true
Let your light shine in our hearts and in our lives
Help us to be good parents and men take care of our wives
Queen of all the Universe your name in praise we lift
For the love you have for your children and for the greatest gift
Lead us to your son our Lord and point the way to Him
Lead us today and lead us home when our eyes grow dim
Grant some share of that grace you possess
And help me find some peace and rest.

Amen

Mary, Queen of the Angels

Blessed Mary, Queen of the Angels
Guard us while we pray and keep us safe from harm
Holy Mary, Lady of the Blessed Sacrament
Intercede and let your graces flow through us
Hail Mary, full of grace and peace and light
Shelter us in our storms and guide us through our darkest night
Immaculate Mary, pure of heart and free from sin
Change our hearts and our lives from deep within
Merciful Mary, you showed us the way to your son Jesus
You bore the one who frees us
Sorrowful Mary, your heart was pierced and still you clung to hope
Comfort and hold us when we lose our hope
Mary, Queen of the new Evangelization stand with us
Give us the courage to stand in our faith or fall on Jesus and say "Yes"
Mary our Mother, of gentleness and Love
Help us reach out to all and fix our eyes on things above
Mary most high and queen of the heavenly host
Help us join in adoration the one we love the most

We ask your intercession that you bring this offering of Prayer and Praise to the feet of your son. We pray this and all things in your son Jesus' name. In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen

I will take you in my arms and hold you while you rest. Who am I that I should be worthy to hold the savior of the world close to my chest. Singing so softly a simple lullaby, hush now my darling and close your little eyes. Enjoy this moment of love and of peace for now, just your mother I’ll be. My Lord and my love I’ll be by your side both day and night. You shatter the darkness you are my light.

Maybe it's the sun, but maybe you're the one of whom I'm dreaming
Maybe it's not real, but this is how I feel: my soul you're redeeming
Maybe it's just sound, but maybe I have found a love that's unending
Maybe it's the air, but maybe you are there I'm constantly depending
Maybe it's war, but maybe it's worth living for
It's time to take a stand
Maybe I'm kneeling, and maybe you're healing
With a touch of your hand
I come bowed and broken, hearing words so softly spoken
Teach my heart and heal my soul
For sin exacts a heavy toll
But a deal was made, the debt was paid
As water and blood flowed free
Now at long last, no longer slave to my past
What do you see in me?
Given a second chance, at Blessed romance
I know not why or how
But maybe it's enough just to live in your love
For it's all that I have now

May the spirit of God be with you
All the days of your life
May the spirit of life and of love
Shine bright in your heart
May the spirit of giving and charity
Help you find some clarity
May the spirit of firm believing
Also help you in receiving
May the spirit of truth and grace
Be seen by all who look upon your face
May the spirit that is ever faithful
Help you always in being grateful
May the spirit of wisdom and prudence
Guide your thoughts and sense
May the spirit of endless joy
Be yours forever to enjoy
May the spirit of glory and power
Keep you safe in darkest hour
May the spirit's Holy Essence
Be for always ever present
May the spirit of life-giving spring
Renew and refresh every thing
May the spirit lead that you would follow
Where the demons cannot go
May the spirit lift you up to the sky
Spread your wings and learn to fly
May the spirit fill you with courage
If you fall, rise again! Do not discourage
May the spirit be a companion and friend
Always by your side unto the very end
May the spirit of the Lord so bless
That He is more and we are less
May the spirit of the Lord help us be
Closer to Him and farther from me
May the spirit of silence settle down
And a blanket of peace surround
May the spirit of God take you ever higher
And grant you the soul's deepest desire

What was it like that very first Christmas? Cold, dark, ***** and smelly, but through all of that, the shining light, the fire of the Holy Spirit and the one who would reach through our dirtiness and smelliness to cleanse the world was born. There was peace, there was joy, there was love and most of all there was hope. Shepherds came from the fields nearby who, upon seeing the star and hearing the heaven's proclaim the good news of great joy, came swiftly to pay homage to the baby king. Born so low so to connect with us and our humanity and in order that he might one day be raised so as to raise us up to more than we can be. The journey to Bethlehem was long and hard. Did you know, did you have any idea what was going to happen to your baby boy? All that he was to do and all that he had to suffer? All of this happened so quickly. There wasn't any time to process any of it. Thinking about t, I am so overwhelmed and I didn't even go through it. But you, a young simple girl, kept all these things and silently reflected on the in your heart. How often do we hear news of something good or bad and simply react without thinking? Or how many of us take the time after a retreat, after being on the mountaintop with God, take the time to keep all these wonderful powerful moments and reflect on them in order to bring them with us back to the valley of our everyday lives? How many of us take the time to reflect on what we learned and try to apply that to our lives and help us to mature and grow as your son did at the home in Nazareth in stature and favor with both God and man? Mary, mother of God, help us to imitate your example and pause for a few moments to take in all that is around us and reflect on these things in our hearts and in our lives. Be with us, pray for us, and hold us in your arms and close to you always. We love you Mary. Thank you for your "Yes" and your incredible faith. May we have the grace and strength and courage to do the same. We ask this and all things through Christ our Lord, AMEN.

The First Joyful Mystery:
The Annunciation: The angel Gabriel appears to Mary, announcing she is to be the Mother of God

Mary is represented by the church. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit may be compared to an orange in that they are three parts, but the same fruit or nature. Peel, pulp/meat, and seeds. Jesus is the seeds that God put in Mary, the church and later Mary gives birth to Jesus. The angel Gabriel appears to Mary and tells her she is the Mother of God. Mary follows God’s will at all times like the church listens to God. Mary is very afraid, but trusts God and goes out to share the good news with her best friend, and cousin, Elizabeth. We pray Hail Mary full of grace, blessed are you indeed in many ways. Your immaculate conception, your carrying of Jesus in your womb, your being chosen to bear our savior. Oh holy Mother of God, pray for us sinners from our first cry to our final breath. Amen

The Fifth Joyful Mystery:
The Finding in the Temple: Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the Temple

Jesus is missing for several days and Mary and Joseph are frantic and filled with worry! Where could he be? After much searching and worrying, the find Jesus in the temple sitting and talking with the teachers and high religious people, talking, learning, and teaching. Mary and Joseph are overjoyed to have found their son at last! Through this mystery Lord we pray May we be like Mary and Joseph and though we may have been lost to you or couldn’t find you that eventually we do find you again and are rejoice and be filled with gladness and joy to once again be reunited with you! In the times when we are lost, may we be reassured that, when we come back to you or you find us, that we will all rejoice as you welcome us with open arms. We pray this in Your Name. Amen

The Second Joyful Mystery:
The Visitation: Elizabeth greets Mary: ‘Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb!’


Mary travels miles to see her best friend, and cousin, Elizabeth who was also with child to share with her this great news! When Mary gets to her cousin’s house the two women great each other and Elizabeth’s baby leaps inside her womb in response to being in the presence of the Lord Jesus. Elizabeth is very happy and says to Mary “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” Elizabeth recognizes that Mary is truly blessed to conceive Jesus while still a ****** by the working of the Holy Spirit. Mary also recognizes she is truly blessed to bear the Christ child inside of her. She alone was chosen among women to house the savior and redeemer of the world. What amazing gifts God has given Mary! We pray to God May we, like Mary be blessed. Help us to receive you all the time and, like Elizabeth and her baby, may we give all praise and glory to you now and forever. May we leap for joy whenever we are near to you. Help us also to feel your presence daily. Amen

The Third Joyful Mystery:
The Nativity: The ****** Mary gives birth to the Redeemer of the World

Mary is betrothed to Joseph when Caesar orders a census to take place. Joseph finds out that Mary is pregnant and he is thinking about quietly divorcing her when he has a dream. In this dream an angel appears to Joseph and tells him that the baby’s name is to be Jesus Emmanuel, meaning God with Us. Joseph, though scared and unsure, like Mary, also chooses to trust God that Mary was not pregnant by another man. Mary and Joseph travel all the way to Bethlehem where Joseph’s family lived. By the time they arrived in the little town, Mary was heavy with child. They could not find a place to stay for Mary to have her baby when finally they found a stable to spend the night at. The baby Jesus was born into poverty and humility. It was smelly and *****, uncomfortable and cold. Jesus was placed in a manger, a trough, where the animals ate and drank. His only guests were the farm animals there, a shepherd boy with his sheep, a poor drummer boy, and three wisemen who came from very far off to pay homage to him. The Christ Child was born into poverty and humility, yet there was also great happiness and peace that cold winter’s night (the first fruits of the church). We pray Thank you God for sending us your Son to be born of the ****** Mary and become a man like us. The Redeemer of the World was born in poverty and humility. Help us to remember that not everything is as it seems. It doesn’t matter how much we give as long as we give all that we can. For this, help us to remember the woman who gave all of what she had which was two copper coins. Savior of the World, help us receive you as the world once received you so long ago. We love you and thank you! Amen

The Fourth Joyful Mystery:
The Presentation: The Blessed Mother presents the Child Jesus in the Temple

As a good Christian family, Mary and Joseph presented their son Jesus at the temple as was custom to have their son consecrated and to give entrust him into the care of the Lord. We pray Oh Lord help us to present ourselves to you just as Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple. Help us please to do this with a clean body and a clean soul as well as with joy as Mary and Joseph also surely did! Amen

Bread of Life seed that dies to be reborn
You shine so bright like the sun in the morn
You blanket the heavens at night with the stars
Divine Physician come heal our scars
We are your people called by your name
By your word I let go of my guilt and shame
Your love reaches the depths of my inmost being
I lay my burdens down at your feet and it is freeing
I place my trust in you and walk across the water
I am but clay in the hands of the master potter
Keeping my eyes fixed on you I will not be afraid and sink
You are the living well from which I drink
In your Spirit my soul is alive and I am living well
You are the healing rain when I am in a dry spell
Come to me and hear me now, meet me here this day
Bless me and look kindly upon me listen while I pray
I cannot feel you near where are you hide not your face
Come now and bathe me in your love and grace
You are my breath my strength and my hope
You are my lifeline a safety rope
I look to you Oh Lord my God I need to see some sign
That you are still there and your hand is still holding mine
Renew me Lord my heart is burdened and heavy
I'm tired of running and fighting and maybe I'm ready
To start coming back so run to me as I come home still far
He'll take you back and hold you close and meet you where you are
Be at peace and come start to heal
Know that I am God and that I am real

Amen

Remember Death... Remember to Live

Today is a day of reflection and remembrance of death, of the frailty and fleeting nature of earthly life. Jesus is dead. Some feel the pain and loss, some carry on with life, but everyone is changed. Jesus was only thirty-three when he died and had only been in his public ministry for three years. I don't know how it was back then, but by today's standards, that's awfully young. I've known several people who were quite young who have passed away recently, and it makes me stop and wonder "What am I doing with my life?" Am I focusing on what really matters or am I not utilizing well what precious little time I have? It is important to remember that we will die, and things of this world are fleeting that it may temper our lives, but we should also focus on making the most of life. Live, love, hurt, laugh, cry: all of these things help us know we are truly alive. It is not just physical death that is important to remember either. Sin causes spiritual death, and true love is sacrificial: dying to oneself for the joy and well-being of another. Jesus died to give us life. His life was His love and He gave it away. Jesus gave us everything. We can and ought to give something back to him because "we would have nothing, nothing, nothing if we didn't have Him". Jesus died to nail our sins upon the cross and as we die with Christ, so too will we rise with Him. May God help us to die to ourselves and live for others. When we live for others, we also live for God: "Whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me". I pray that at the end of your life, that you don't have any regrets for wanting to do something and not doing it. Don't forget to tell your parents, your spouse, your family and friends that you love them and cherish them. Call that person, that friend that you haven't talked to in years. Be generous and compassionate to the person on the street. Don't wait, because tomorrow could be too late. We are not promised tomorrow, we are only promised right now. We are only promised today. So, today and everyday we pray: Memento Mori... Memento Vivere.

Remember Death, but most importantly... Remember to Live!

Amen

What is it that I see?

When I look into your eyes

What is it that I feel?

When I catch you looking at me

Something I find vaguely familiar

Something straining at the edge of memory

Yet I can’t quite place where I know it

Feels like an old friend

At one time we were inseparable

But time and age has changed this

What is it that you have?

That I admire so much
  

A child-like energy,

A love and passion like no other,

Seeing life in the eyes of youth;

That indefatigable exuberance

Oh to be young and alive once more…

The world and its joys and sorrows

How much more vibrant and radiant the colors

Than the rainbow we see sometimes

Colors of youth, life yet to live


What is it that I hear?

Carried by the winds and whispered in my ear

What is it that I taste?

Kissed by the summer sun and caressed by the gentle breeze

Lulled to sleep in the sweet liqueur of your loving embrace

The world once, a lovely place

Full of love and a lust for life

All that remains; but a fragile memory


And sadness while deep, my heart growing dark

A light dimly glows in the depths of my mind.

There you are still; my memory of you

And as I look at the world I am reminded:


The sun is your love warming icy heart

Forever faithful, you watch from on high

Your face is the face of a little child

Young and bright so full of life, of love

Your love is the mother singing her baby to sleep

Even the seasons talk of life.


Winter comes and all seems dead

Cold and empty, barren, lonely

It lasts so long all hope seems lost

When winter finally ends...

Mustering a last hurrah before it has to relinquish

Its death grip on the world and give way to---


The birth of spring!

The spring of hope, the spring of life,

Joy and hope rising up with the entire world

As is the way with many sad times in life


So when the world is cold and dark

I remember that spring is going to come

And when I look at all life around me

I see parts of you in everything and everyone.

I hold your name close to my heart
I shelter your memory in my mind
I do believe in life everlasting
And love without end amen
As long as I live, and life lives within me
Part of you will be with me now and forever
You are as close as my next breath
And you move me with love and grace
Everywhere I look I see your face
There is evidence of you everywhere
So many things touched by your presence
And your gentle loving spirit
I wish I could put my hand in yours
And feel the warmth of your embrace
And saddened as I am right now
I rejoice in the hope that one day
I will be with you again
To spend eternity with the one we love

Mercy and Healing

Drink from the fountain of mercy
Be washed in the waters of love
Where the chains fall away and you are free
The sun giving warmth and light from above

Come to the table of goodness and plenty
Partake in the great wedding feast
Where blessings run over and never are empty
All are now equal no greatest no least

In the great light of love there is mercy and healing
Joy and peace will be together once more
When we can move past the hurt we’ve been feeling
We find the forgiveness we’ve been searching for

He bled and died from the wounds we inflict
His ultimate sacrifice the cost of our sin
The greatest act of love and grace he chose to depict
And as he was murdered they were all forgiven

Jesus forgave his killers so why can’t I let go
Of a burden that is not even mine to bear
Lord forgive my un-forgiveness and help me to grow
Remind me that in every situation you are waiting there

Cover me Lord in your loving embrace
Wash me with your precious blood
Fill me with mercy, healing and grace
Drown me in your Most Holy flood

Sing to my soul the sweetest note
Burn your word into my mind
Move me as I read what you wrote
That where I seek you, my heart may find

A place of profound peace and refreshing sleep
A place of great joy where it is forever content
A place of restoring grace and where mercy runs deep
A place where broken things are mended you are present

I ask this and all things with great confidence in your name
To the one who was and is and ever will remain
For we know you hear our cries and hasten to us when we call
But Your will be done not mine for you are Lord of all

Amen

Ask and you shall receive
Imagine what you can achieve
When you love Him with all your being
Miracles can happen if you keep believing

For He is near to those who call upon His holy name
He is freedom and forgiveness in our sin and shame
We repeat the same mistakes and He loves us just the same

His love endures his hope secures
From His side grace and mercy flow
He took on flesh and was put to death
So that the world would finally know

How much he loved us to the end
We betrayed Him and he calls us friend
He looked beyond my faults to the hurt I hold inside
He held me and healed me and my heart was opened wide

The miracle of mercy the miracle of life
The miracle of peace in the middle of strife
The miracle of being loved for all time
The miracle of God choosing a heart like mine

The miracle of the change happening in me
The miracle of light when the blind can see
The miracle of wonder in the eyes of a child
The miracle of a baby so tender and mild

The miracle of a touch, a word or smile
That one sign a person was praying for
You could be the miracle someone was waiting for

Lord make me a miracle for you to use. Let my words and actions bless others and be a light to show them someone is there, someone who cares. So often we look for the big miracles and, while they do happen, we don’t see them all the time. Help us remember to look for and see all the little miracles in our day to day lives. Birth, the beauty of nature, the sun rising each day, making it through one more day, a helping hand you needed, but didn’t expect. Open our eyes Lord to truly see life around us through your eyes. Thank you for all the miracles you give us big and small and, by your will, allow us to be a channel for your miracles working in and through us. We ask this and all things with confidence to God our Father, in union with the Son and the Holy Spirit who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

Jesus you are so much more than I deserve
It’s a miracle that you would choose someone like me
But you love me beyond measure
You took on pain and it was your pleasure
You gave yourself to me fully
Still I hold back somehow unsure
From the love that makes me pure
Lord I need you more fill me up
Satisfy this hungry heart fill my cup
Let your blessings overflow as mercy abounds
Let my praises fill the sky and let heaven resound
Help me Lord to give you more
So that you can be more in me
In your greatness make me small
So that I can see you are Lord over all
It’s amazing that the one whom I adore
Wants to give me so much more
In all things Lord help me surrender
Wrap me in your arms love me soft and tender
You mean so much more than I admit
And sometimes it scares me a bit
But God be more and give me rest
Help me see just how much I’m blessed
I love you Lord help me live it out loud
As I try to live well I know you are more than proud
Make me more than who I am
Make me who I’m meant to be
Make me more than just a man
Make me all of what you see

Help me love you Lord
More deeply than before
Help me trust you
No matter what life has in store
Help me see you
In the way that you see me
Help me Lord, to act
Like I have been set free
Help me separate
What is lie and what is fact
Let my words build up and create
Giving hope to a world that's diseased
Strength to the weak and love to all
Praying always and down on my knees
Help me be silent
So, I will hear the call
Help me Lord to always be brave
In the knowledge you are mighty to save
I want to know you
More personally and intimately
Even if it takes all eternity
I want to meet you here
And search harder, dig deeper
What lies inside the heart of a seeker
Take me into the holy of holies
Pull me closer and take me deeper
Deeper than I've ever been before
I am aware of my faults and failings
Aware of the cracks and imperfections
But I am also aware
Of your mercy and grace
And in the presence of your love
All my fears have been erased
I can say with blessed assurance
I understand the Lord my God
More deeply than before

Holy Mother blessed mother of my savior Jesus Christ
****** Mary walk beside me for today and all my life
Pure and blameless born without the stain of sin
Help me to be like you Mother cleanse me from within
Full of grace and perfect beauty Queen of Heaven above
Wrap us gently in your arms fill us with your tender love
Hear me Mother as I pray
Help me love you more each day
Mary guide me and pray for me your little child
Help me live like you: so strong and meek and mild
Mother Mary here with me from my birth unto my death
Take me home to be with Jesus when I take my final breath

Mother of Mercy, channel of Grace
Wrap our hearts in thine embrace
Fount of Love and joyful giver
Bathe us in thy cleansing river
Help our hearts be as new fallen snow
And aid us so our holiness might grow
Pray to Jesus for us poor sinners
Open our hearts as we read the scriptures
May we show mercy to others
Treating all as sisters and brothers
Oh, source of help in our time of need
Hear us Oh Holy Mother and intercede
Help us each to pause, ponder, and reflect
On the moments of our lives in retrospect
To learn from, to cherish and to hold
To warm us when we are in the cold
Mother of Mercy grant us your peace
May our love for thee ever increase
Through the merits of thy maternal love
May it, now and always, ever be enough

Massive mountains tower above reaching to the sky
Overwhelming sense of smallness in the whole big scheme of things
Unfathomable is our own beating heart's desires
Natural beauty present in these majestic peaks
Tranquility on mountain-tops
Awe instilled by these terrible towers
Inspiring me to write a little rhyme
Nighttime when everything dies for a while

Simplicity is all around with fields of cotton above
Kindling the flame of imagination
Youthful do the skies make me feel

Window into the world as the eyes are to the soul
Amazing it truly is to see such potential
Turbulent waters in the water and in the soul
Electrified am I and alive I feel as I watch
Reflection upon this scene says natural beauty.

Lift your voices, sing His praises
See the smile upon His face
People, listen to the sound
Can you feel it in the air
The Spirit is moving there
As we bring His kingdom down
Rocks cry out and mountains tremble
As we exalt Him in His temple
Prepare a place, prepare Him room
Look upon your beloved groom
Behold the Lamb, perfect sacrifice
Whose blood was shed to pay the price
See the God who took on flesh
To lead us out of sin and death
Touch his feet and nail scarred hands
And, slowly, you start to understand
The cost that love sometimes demands
A tender kiss on thorn pierced brow
The weight begins to sink in now
To endure it I can't imagine how
From His heart poured out for us
His mercy and grace wash over us
Bringing life to ashes and dust

The knowledge of God is like a mustard seed: tiny at first, yet it grows so tall
It takes time and love, faith and joy above all.
Spiritual growth is a journey; dangerous yet rewarding.
Each time we step, we grow a bit. Someday, on eagles’ wings, we’ll be soaring.
But we can’t do it alone. We need the one up above
And no matter what we do, he is looking down in love.
Walking with us in the good times and carrying us in the bad,
I look to the Lord as my brother, friend, and dad.
If we have the smallest bit of faith and find good water, soil, and light
We can take root and one day be a shelter for many in flight
With tenderness and care with patience and with peace
For one so small there is so much potential for growth and increase
See what God can do with so little and make it so grand
It’s astounding to image for you and me what God has planned

We live in a world where bad things and evil walk among the good and just
Sometimes the weeds and thorns choke out the good wheat
Other times, they grow together, wrap and intertwine and to pull out the **** is to **** the wheat
Jesus, you speak in parables to try and make the message more relateable, more easily grasped.
You also warn and remind us to repent and to be careful that we are not caught up in the temptations and wiles of this earthly life. Help us Lord to be open to your voice, to hear your word, and inter the message in our hearts and in our lives. May our eyes, ears, heart and mind be open and receptive soil to see, hear, love, and understand your love and truth. You are the Way to the Father, the Spirit of Truth and Light, and the giver of Eternal Life. Grant, we beseech you, faith and understanding the size of a mustard seed that we may grow in wisdom and stature before God and man and be a refuge for all those in need. We ask this and all things in your Most Holy Name, Jesus. AMEN

Another year almost come and gone and

Christmas day is upon us once again.

Today’s Christmases full

Of gifts, hour long lines, last minute shopping

And Stress!

Life moving at a breakneck pace; never slowing,

People not sparing a small coin to put in the Salvation Army bucket.

I wonder if we would all make better presents

Than the ones we receive on Christmas-

With how wrapped up we are.

There are those (not to be forgotten) who do something kind

For someone else; Sometimes anonymously.

Though I feel that, through the years,

We have forgotten what Christmas really is.

Christmas isn’t about bows, ribbons, or tags

Nor is Christmas about packages, boxes, or bags.

What is it then? Go back about 2000 years or so to the very first Chrismas

A very cold, dark, winter night in a Bethlehem barn a young woman gave birth

To a son Jesus “Emmanuel” meaning (‘God With Us’)

On that night the witnesses to Jesus’ birth were

A few shepherds from nearby fields,

The animals in the barn, 3 kings (wisemen they be), and a poor drummer boy.

The kings brought gifts to pay homage and honor to the babe

The drummer boy had no gift to bring, but played a song for the child

All was bright, calm, peaceful that night

The warmth of love and light

Overpowering the cold, dark, winter of that Bethlehem night

Lord, it is the deepest desire of my heart to be free from the sin of lust or, if not free, to be able to manage it so that I may better follow you, live for you, and love for you. I also pray that by doing this, I would be more receptive and aware and blessed ever more than you have so abundantly blessed me now. Please help me to be silent and at peace in my heart, mind, and soul so I can be open to your Holy Spirit and write what you speak to give glory to your name ad to build your kingdom here on Earth. Amen

In your eyes I see a light reflected
I see myself not quite perfected
In your eyes I see love and compassion
I see where I can find true satisfaction
I see endless pools of mercy and grace
I see the gentle smile upon your Holy face
Your eyes are soft and your eyes are warm
And to your will Lord, my will, conform
For people to say "You have your Father's eyes"
Is something amazing: a desirable prize
Your eyes they pierce right through me
And yet, they don't condemn, they free
Though I betrayed you, though I did deny
Though from my lips came forth "Crucify!"
Still, in your eyes I see only forgiveness
And forever, your forgiveness is endless
Your eyes know me intimately; before you, I stand bare
Of my scars: the guilt and shame, I am acutely aware
And still, you love me as your own, call me your precious child
You bear with me in my tantrums and when I am so wild
Through your eyes, I find the truth revealed
And, through your eyes, my soul is also healed
Help me Lord, to see others with your eyes of love
And watch over me from your throne in Heaven above

Lord God, there is something personal, intimate, revealing and special about your eyes. I see myself and I don't always like what I see, but you still love me. You look at me with mercy, compassion, forgiveness, healing and so much more. You look past my faults to reveal the treasure within. Help me do the same to all I meet. Help me love my friends and especially my enemies with your eyes of love. Let me not judge too quickly based on appearances and first impressions but search much deeper within to find their value and goodness. Lord, give us the grace to not just look at other people, but actually SEE them. Let me never tire of gazing lovingly into your eyes Oh Lord, just as you look back at me. In your greatness God, give us the grace to reflect you so that others might say: "You have your Father's Eyes". Amen.

She is a cutie, a real American Beauty
Watch her as she walks along
Pulled in by her Siren's Song
Smell the flowers in her hair
Smile my way and I'm lighter than air
Dancing in the window by the light of the moon
One look at her and I'm about to swoon

Flowing so gracefully; "My God, she's Divine!"
One day I'll be hers and she will be mine
Dressed head to toe in garment of purest white
You can bet I'll be soaring higher than a kite

I know life doesn't work like the fairy tales say
No magic, not perfect in every little way
As long as we're together I promise we'll make it through
Take it moment by moment, take it day by day. That's what I'll do:

To be by your side through every little thing.
But more than to give you diamonds or ring,
I want to give you peace. And also from this boy:
To love and respect you and bring you joy!

From me to you, my heart is aflame,
Lord, how I pray that you feel the same.

So many countries in the world today

Places and people neglected and needy

Forgotten, mocked, and cast out.

Needing love and care: bring Jesus to them

We want to help. We share in their pain and suffering

Singing songs to the God who saves, provides and protects

Sharing and working together as a new family is made

This is good! Experience the joy it brings

But look too and do not forget!

Those in our own communities

Neglected and needy

Forgotten, mocked, and cast out.

They too need love and care and bring Jesus to them.

What can I do? How can I help?

Help those in my own backyard?

Volunteer an hour or two at a food pantry,

Serve lunch and talk to the people at a soup kitchen.

Bringing love and care: and Jesus to them.

Write letters or make packages to send to soldiers,

Or spend a few hours talking and visiting at a home for the elderly.

Make baskets with socks, blankets, and a jacket

And spend a day in the city handing them out in the winter months.

Bringing love and care: bringing Jesus to them.

Open a door for someone, whose arms are full,

Make dinners or gifts for a family in need at your church:

Bringing love and care and bringing Jesus to them

And to those in my own backyard!


God Bless!

Take me where I am, meet me where I am
Shepherd me Oh Lord like a little lamb
You are my protector, you are my defender
Help me run to you when I hear the voice of the pretender
You are my salvation and my Rock
An open heart and mind has many a door unlocked
You are my fortress and my strong tower
When I am weak and worn you have the power
You are my shield in front and my sword beside
You are my armor Lord you are big when I am small inside
You lift me up and take me in
You run to me when I confess my sin
You are my healer my balm and salve when I am sick
You have never left my side through thin and very thick
You care for me and love me. You send me your Spirit
You never gave up on me even when I wanted to quit
I love you I praise you I give glory to your name
Your words are living and dynamic yet ever the same
I bless you and thank you for all that you are
Prince of Peace, King of Kings, Morning Star
Many names for one so high
But above all else you love me so much you would die
No greater love there is than to lay down one's life for a friend
I will do my best to live that out loud till my time is at an end
In all things Lord be my life and breath
Keep me ever in your sight from now until my death
When I join with you in heaven I will forever sing your praise
But until that day I'll be content just to daily lift my gaze

Amen

Come back to me with all your heart
Don't let fear keep us apart
Turn from your sin and cling to the Lord
Be wholly changed by this Love outpoured
The world is screaming for our attention
While He patiently waits for our affection
In this dry and barren land
Our hearts learn to understand
How to walk with the Lord and hear His voice
And, back in His arms, we will rejoice
For in the desert there is suffering and pain
And we cry out for a single drop of rain
But there is a focus and a silence
With a beauty all its own
And in the midst of hatred and violence
We know we are never alone
You have moved my heart in ways I can't contain
The words are filled with healing and pain
You have pierced me Oh Lord with your unfailing love
And I am powerless to resist this precious holy flood
Your music stirs my soul to sing to you
King of my life and all that is good and true
In these forty days help me focus now
Help me hear you in the silence somehow
In this time of trial and testing
Be at peace my soul for, in God's merciful heart, you are resting
We walk in the light with darkness around us
We are free because God's grace has found us
Today, right now, my soul has been stirred
For we live not by bread, but by God's word

My soul sings for the Lord
It leaps for joy at the sound of his name
The Lord is rightly to be praised
And all creation shouts with joy
Lifting our voices and hearts in song
We join with the angels in heaven above
To proclaim the world his saving love
We minister to the oppressed and the poor
We welcome the stranger at our door
We open our hearts to those in need
There is always more room to be family
We love those who have not known it
We are led in all things by the spirit
We care for the outcast the sinner the lost
And we do this all and don’t count the cost
Our God is always present and walks along side
He gave us the Bible to be our earthly guide
Angels live among us though not always known
Sometimes it’s the people we have in our lives
They touch us and carry us through our storms
Perhaps angels take many forms
The things that you just can’t explain
The relief from a bad chronic pain
The money that came at just the right time
Rainbows that appear when you ask for a sign
A tear in your eye from out of the blue
A presence you feel and you know it’s true
The perfect words for a perfect stranger
Being protected from certain danger
What is this power unseen yet so real
What is this stirring in my heart that i feel
When we look inside what will emerge
I find a quiet strength and emboldened courage
This is the Spirit of God that is living
These are the gifts that it is giving

You are Light, You are Truth, You are perfect and good. So here I come. Here I stand. Humble and broken. I fall down with my face to the ground. You lift me up, take me in, and wrap me in your arms of Amazing Grace. I cry to you, I crawl to you, I fly to you, Jesus help me give my all to you. Who am I that you should know and love me; one so small and weak. If I will be still and listen I hear you speak Body and blood, broken and shared, poured out and spilled: surround me. God of creation use me, work, move and live in and through me. There is love, there is beauty, there is love in the sacrifice, and while unworthy, you gave your life, deemed us worth the price: all so we could live in love and communion with you for all ages. We will dance and sing and shout for joy. The old will pass away and we will be made new. One day, all will be made clear, but sometimes I'd like a little clarity down here! Mary, our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, lead us to your son our Lord. Hail, full of Grace! The Lord is with you! Hear and intercede for us that through you, we may obtain some of this Grace for ourselves. Holy Spirit, bond of friendship and of love, let us be open. Rain down your love and truth upon my life. I hunger.

Walk with me and I'll walk with you
In storm and shine and through it all
I'll be there to catch you when you fall
Together is where we are
Together forever though near or far
Call out to me and I'll be at your side
I'll travel the world so far and wide
Think of me and I'll think of you
Reach out and feel my hand in yours
There is no greater love so strong
So pure and true and so long
Just look up, breathe in, and smile
The same stars stretch across the miles
Standing under the same moon and sky
Reflecting the light from within your eyes
The waves match the beat of your heart
As my own heart pounds in my chest
We breathe in the cool night air
Riding the breeze, I'm already there
Can you feel me, can you hear me?
So far away, as close as a breath
Loud as the tempest, soft as a whisper
No matter what happens
No matter where we are
We are as one, you and I
Even without touching
Never Far

My God you said "I'm never givin' up on you"
And you show us time after time after time
I'd leave the ninety-nine to find you
I've laid down my life just to save you
You turn away and you slam the door
Your sin may be great, but my love is more
No matter what you do
I'm never givin' up on you
I don't care how long it takes
For you to see how my heart aches
I made you for a purpose and reason
Despite what you might be believin'
No one else can take your place
To feel the warmth of my embrace
In your weakness I'll be your strength
In your darkness I'll shine the light
When you're scared, I'll be your courage
When you can't go on, I'll carry you
Forever and for always
I'm never givin' up on you

I see your love and how it is portrayed
In a declaration so boldly proclaimed
In my heart I feel that these words are true
You say: "I'm never givin' up on you"
In my own life, I too, have felt this call
For those I love; a family, one and all
For these I will fight, lift up and defend
For these I would travel the world's end
I'm never givin' up no matter the cost
Because faith is strong, and hope isn't lost
Life is precious, life is sweet
Life is sacred, life is neat
It is filled with difficult decisions
But one I make with clearest vision
As long as I have breath and life
I'm never givin' up on you

Lord, thank you for never giving up on me; for never giving up on us. Every now and then I catch just a glimpse of the depth and breadth of your love for me and I'm amazed. It also occurs to me that sometimes we reflect this truth in the way we love each other.

I saw this powerful truth reflected just today in my work. That all of this is possible, my job exists and the people I love and serve are alive today because one person looked with love and said: "I'm never givin' up on you!"

Lord, please help us all to realize how beautiful and wonderful life is and what miracles can happen when we say and live out the love you first had for us. Amen!

Sometimes bitter, still fresh and bright
These are the traits of newly minted life
This is life in Christ Jesus our Lord
This is precious myrrh outpoured
The fragrance of our earthly lives
The incense of our prayers as they rise
Chew the fresh mint's leaves of green
And experience just what I truly mean
We were not promised an easy road
Full of sun and nary a cloud to be found
There may be persecution or disbelief
And days and nights of such great grief
There will be hard times and bitterness
But life is so, so much more than this
It is full of promise and full of hope
Full of awe and wonder and beauty
It is joy in sorrow and peace to help cope
I feel its protection is our sacred duty
Each one a note of clearest purest tone
Some cut short before they were grown
Unable to add their song to the symphony
Voices echoing out into God's own infinity
Truly, life can be bitter, but it can be sweet
If we can humble ourselves
If we can wash each other's feet

I, the Lord of all creation, give you a new name
And, from this day on, you will never be the same
Be transformed in your life and follow my will
And know that no matter what I love you still
Take this moment here and now you are a new creation
Learn from your mistakes and live in right relation
Channel this energy this love and passion
And find a love that’s never out of fashion
I call you my child and I am your Father
Call out to me always I won’t be bothered
I want to hear from you and I want you to listen
There is a beauty in the eyes that glisten
I call you forward to my loving merciful heart
That you and I are never very far apart
Cling to me in the storms, the wind and waves
I will be your anchor and the hand that saves
Cast out in the deep and try once more
And know the wondrous things I have in store
You aren’t perfect, but it is you that I chose
With time and grace your faith will grow
I know it’ll be hard, but I believe you’re worth it

Everywhere I look: poverty, war and sickness
The only news on T.V. is negative. What is this?!
I feel so sorry for the poor, and hungry and lame
But I must remember Jesus has called us each by name.
Heart to heart; to love one another
Hand in hand as sister and brother.
It breaks my heart to see them suffering
I help because it is a good thing.
“They need more because they have less”
And realize later that God knows best.
Because while they might be “poor” and not have much,
They are rich in love and such.
Theirs is a faith so pure, and strong, and true
How poor I really was I never had a clue.
Now I can say in all honesty:
I gained a new perspective the day that you helped me!

Another year older, another year wiser
Another chance to be better
New Year is here so let's all cheer
Working to keep all we hold so dear
We hope to see each other face to face
And person to person
We hope that family and friends stay
Healthy and safe
We banish worry, doubt and fear
They have no place, no hold here
We hold joy, and love and peace in our heart
Tearing down walls that keep us apart
May this year bring you many great days
To see the world anew in wonderful ways
Look again with the eyes of a child
Full of wonder both free and wild
May peace fill your world and your home
And love go with you wherever you roam
Friends as your anchor in the raging storm
Family a lighthouse to bring you safe to shore
Blessings to you and yours in the New Year!

Noises and distractions abound
Calling out for our attention all clamoring
All the motion, all the lights, all the sound
Pulled apart in every direction, the hammering

Living in a society with life in constant chaos
Sensory overload and constantly connected to everything
In actuality totally disconnected to what really matters
Distant from people, apart from sadness and grief
Brain racing faster than a bullet train can’t get any sleep

Is there anyone as gone as I am today?
Losing the commotion of the world for a moment
It is then that we can begin to start finding ourselves
Finding who it is we really are and why we’re here
Connected with our joys, fears, hopes, sadness and dreams
So many wondrous things you can see when you cut yourself free

Breathe in deeply. Smell life, smell love, smell joy
Listen closely. Hear the symphony of life. Hear the song in your heart
Feel again. Feel warmth, peace, and light
Taste the spice of creativity and crave a zest for life
Touch the world. Reaching hearts and helping hands
Press pause or at least slow down

Lose yourself in the mystery the majesty of the moment
Discover yourself in the deep and the divine daily
See yourself in the stillness and the solitude of silence
Free yourself from fear from fame and fortune
Peaceful presence is yours in the power of perpetual prayer
Find yourself once more in Jesus Christ the Lord

If we were to somehow able to learn
The secret to happiness and peace
Perhaps we could then discern
Sometimes silence is sweet release

There is nothing greater than a mother's love
I'll move mountains, move heaven and earth
To comfort you and lift you up
To be there for you night and day
And if you are lost it will help you find your way
There is nothing fiercer than a mother's love
They'd do anything to keep their little one safe
They dry your tears and calm your fears
They hold you tight and make things alright
They share your joy and suffering
And they softly sing while you sleep
A song of love, asking the angels to watch and keep you safe
Till the light breaks forth in the eastern sky
To bathe the whole world in its soft yellow dye
There is nothing stronger than a mother's love
They are there when you need to sit in silence
Leave the door open and they will be with you
They know just what to say, they know your every need
They nurture and care and raise you up from the smallest seed
Until one day you bloom and grow beautiful strong and tall
You bring joy to their hearts every time you call
They love to listen, they give sage advice
A little of our time is their only price
There is nothing greater than a mother's love
There is nothing sweeter or more fine
There is nothing better than a mother's hug
And, somehow, they seem to have God's direct line
There is nothing greater than a mother's love
And none so great or perfect as our Heavenly Mother
She is the ladder between heaven and earth
For God became man through divine birth
How great was her love for her son
How great is her love for all of us
And nothing is greater that our mother's love

Lord, thank you for mothers. Our earthly mothers and our mother in heaven. They are such a blessing. You knew that as lost children, we would need a mother to care for us, to lead us and teach us. Thank you for our mothers, Lord. Help us to respect, cherish and honor them always and may we be a blessing to our mothers even as they have blessed us. We pray for those who are still with us and those who have gone before us to pray and intercede on our behalf. Mothers have a special place in your heart Oh Lord. Keep us close to yours. Amen

When I look into your eyes I see a smile
When I see your smile I see thankfulness and love
You said you can tell when I’m around because of an aura
That may be true, but it’s not because of me. It’s someone else.
On my part I don’t feel an aura, but a calm and clean
Our relationship is only a slight bond formed of struggles
When you say “I love you” it’s not me, it that you’re in love with God
The only way you could tell me your life was because of God
I have needed a friend and you needed someone to care and listen
The way you can thank me is by loving and thanking Him
I don’t know how to dance, but I wonder if He does?
Your heart was open and you saw Jesus as me for help
Maybe I was Joseph to you help you carry the cross
I don’t know what will become, I am ready to be God for you

O seat of wisdom from on high
O spring of life that ne'er runneth dry
O root of Jesse flower once more
O key of David strike a divine chord
O king of the nations forever reign
O Lord whose anthems echo o'er the plain
O with us is God He is Emmanuel
O soon and very soon, all will be well

Surrender doesn’t come naturally
It goes against everything we think we know
It reveals imperfection letting weakness show
And we can’t be weak we must be strong
We must be strong for ourselves and our family
We must lead our children and our wives
For as we know only the strongest survives
We fight for their rights we are modern day knights
It’s a war zone out there with our souls on the line
A battle of good and evil of temporal and divine
But there can be freedom in surrender
When we lay down our burdens and chains
We find a love so soft and tender
We can sing and dance unrestrained
I have found there is power when my knees touch the ground
A peace and strength that, nowhere else, can be found
Bowed down with my head to the floor
It is surrender, but it’s so much more

When you smile, my heart skips a beat
When you sing, I move my feet
Your bright bubbly personality is a breath of fresh air
It always makes me better knowing you are there
You brighten my day and make me smile
You possess a beauty that is always in style
You shine like the sun and the stars at night
You are a constant source of warmth and light
You are my friend, this much is true
You are my friend and that's why I love you