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The Shortness Of Life And The Length Of Eternity

11/30/2015

It was one month ago today when mom took her last breath on this earth. The picture above was taken just a little over a year ago on October 22, 2014 when I was visiting. I don't know if mom enjoyed Steak-n-Shake the way I did, but it was a routine stop whenever I was in town. We don't have Steak-n-Shake in Wyoming, so it is imperative to get my "fix" each time I am in the St. Louis area. Mom would have a strawberry shake and I would have chocolate. Some things were consistent like that.

The circumstances of my own life colliding with the Season of Advent has led to a significant amount of reflection lately. As the Church shifts our attention squarely on the end times, mortality seems to look me directly in the eye. Due to mom's death last month and my own heart troubles over the past year, the reality of death is very prevalent in my mindset. The shortness of time on this earth and the length of eternity is not something to be taken lightly.

The process of grief is taking place in my life. Even though thirty days have passed since mom's death I still want to reach for the phone every evening to give her a call to make sure she is okay. After doing that for years, it is a hard habit to break. It will take time.

I hope the first week of Advent is a tremendous blessing in your life!

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What Is Weighing You Down?

11/29/2015

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Fog moved into the area last night. The moisture in the air and the ten degree temperature combined to create a winter wonderland this morning. The ice in the tress and on the power lines was a sight to behold. The sun glistened off of the ice crystals and sparkled with intensity. The extra weight was probably not as welcome as was the beauty.

Although the temperatures will not rise above freezing for a couple of days yet, the sun is able to melt away some of the ice and relieve some of the pressure of the additional weight. As we enter into the Season of Advent, will we allow the Son of God to relieve the burden and weight of sin which we carry? Sin may look appealing, but the reality is a different story. It weighs us down and can eventually crush us if we are not set free. The grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the communion, fellowship and the power of the Holy Spirit can set us free. Seek that grace today. Pray for an increase of faith, hope, and love.

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Are You Ready For Advent?

11/28/2015

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Going for a walk when it is 16 degrees with an 8 mph wind making it feel like 3 degrees may not appear to be the ideal conditions one would desire. However, it was quiet, just a little mist of snow still falling, and the beauty of the fresh powder made it a picturesque setting to reflect, ponder, and pray as I walked.

In preparation for the beginning of Advent tomorrow (or this evening if you attend the anticipatory Saturday evening liturgy), I spent some time reflecting on the Joyful Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary.

The Annunciation--Can you even imagine what must have been going through Mary's mind during the interaction with an angel of the Lord? How can this be since I know not man? The Sacred Scriptures only give us a small glimpse into the story of the Incarnation, but it would be interesting to know the breadth and depth of all the things Mary kept and pondered in her heart.

The Visitation--This scene would have to be the ultimate family reunion. The joy being experienced by both Mary and Elizabeth must have been overwhelming. The magnitude of the role these women were to play in salvation history is phenomenal. How much of this did each of them fully grasp at the time? Obviously, the Holy Spirit was actively at work in each of the women preparing them for this moment in history, but it still would be fascinating to know the variety of thoughts that were bouncing around in each of their minds.

The Nativity--We know the story of the Lord's birth quite thoroughly. Has familiarity with the story dampened our enthusiasm and awe? Do we truly grasp the magnitude of God taking on human flesh and coming to earth as a helpless child? It is not just about decorated trees, a clean and sterile manger scene, and waiting for Santa Claus. It is the incarnation of the Savior. Our redemption is at hand. Do we understand the gift of salvation? Do we even care?

The Presentation--The prescriptions of the law were followed. The result is an amazing prophecy. "Now Master, you can let your servant go in peace. Your Word has been fulfilled." Do we trust that the Word of God has been fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ?

The Finding of Jesus in the Temple--We could explore this particular mystery from a multitude of angles. Jesus was in the temple busy with His Father's affairs. We are able to make a number of assertions based upon what we are told in the Scriptures about Jesus' presence there. I want to examine it from the perspective of Mary and Joseph. What were they thinking at this point in time? They had just spent several days back-tracking to find Jesus. Was there anxiety as they searched? Was there anger or disappointment that he just couldn't keep with the program and be in the caravan as was expected? I don't know. The question I repeatedly ask myself after reflecting upon this mystery is a simple one. Do I seek Jesus with great intensity, fortitude, and perseverance?

During my walk I finalized my New (Church) Year's resolutions. I have set specific goals and intentions in regard to my prayer, my study, and my action. I will evaluate and asses my progress from time to time, but specifically, I will examine things thoroughly upon the arrival of Ash Wednesday on February 10, 2016. If adjustments are needed to the goals I will do so at that time. If I just need a kick in the rear to stay on track I will look forward to the Season of Lent providing that particular boost in effort. Self-discipline, mortification, and will-power are only a part of the equation. It is through these disciplines that I hope to open myself more fully to the grace of God at work in me and the power of the Holy Spirit flowing through me. With God--all things are possible. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

HAVE A BLESSED ADVENT!!!

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Black Friday--Hurry To The Store & Stock Up

11/27/2015

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It is late morning on Black Friday as I write this entry. The reports of lunacy are already starting to roll in through social media. Getting into a brawl to save a few dollars on an item is not my idea of fun, but apparently it is all worth it for some folks.

I understand that the nation's economy, especially for retailers, depends upon the Christmas shopping extravaganza which has officially kicked off into full swing now for 2015. Many retailers operate all year in the red until this treasured time of year enters into the picture. Spending habits during the next 30 days will give a significant snapshot of how healthy (or unhealthy) our economy actually is. These days are important for the financial well-being of our nation's economy.

Shopping is part of the tradition of preparing for Christmas. However, I hope we don't miss the bigger picture of preparing the way of the Lord during the upcoming Advent season. As world events continue to play out in dramatic fashion, it would behoove all of us to prepare for those aspects of life which have eternal significance.

Chicago, Baltimore, and Ferguson demonstrate the racial unrest in our own country. The presidential campaign has highlighted just how divided our country is on many different political and cultural issues. Political correctness has ruined the lives and livelihoods of more than just a few. Dialogue and compromise are no longer part of the equation. Serving the common good can hardly be seen by our elected officials. There is a thirst for power, money, and perks that can only be achieved if one stays in office. Thus, it is all about getting re-elected no matter the cost to the constituency.

If elected officials are more interested in doing well for themselves rather than doing good for the people they serve, we are destined for some difficult days. Personal agendas become the driving force behind decision-making when integrity is compromised for any reason. Frequently, we can simply follow the money. Who is financially backing a candidate? Is that why they "evolved" on a particular issue? (They no longer flip-flop on a position. They evolve to a greater understanding.)

If Pope Francis is correct and World War III has begun in piece-meal fashion, our way of life could be impacted immensely here in the United States. There have always been "hot-spots" of violence and chaos throughout the world, but it is different now. Technology and advanced weaponry will obviously shift the methodology of war in the modern era. Countries who didn't get involved in the past have the capability of engaging in the conflict now, and some of these entities do not have our best interest in mind.

The detrimental aspect for the United States that is different now than in the past is our divided country. In times past we came together during a time of crisis. Those days are over. Every crisis now is immediately turned into an opportunity to pursue a particular item on one's political agenda. Leaders and statesmen are difficult to find. If we are unable to correct this flaw among the Washington elites, we can kiss our freedom and way of life good-bye. Black Friday shopping will simply be a distant memory.

Where is the hope in all of this? God continues to call us into relationship. As you listen to the Scripture readings--especially on the first two Sundays of Advent--keep in mind that we are pilgrims on a journey. Make a commitment to be a person of deep and fervent prayer. Respond to God's grace and love. Be a saint! Pray for good and holy leaders to step forward in all walks of life.

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The Waiting Room In The Hospital Can Be Tense

11/26/2015

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A basket of flowers can brighten a hospital room, but the reality of suffering still casts a significant darkness in the air. On Tuesday I spent quite a few hours sitting in the surgical waiting room at the local hospital as a family member was having surgery. The word "waiting" takes on a on a whole new meaning in the hospital. The tension in the room was palpable.

One guy in surgery had a whole cheering section in the waiting room. They were there when I came in and they were still there four and a half hours later when I left. As I was walking out the door the doctor finally came and spoke to them. The surgery had gone well and after spending an hour or so in recovery he would be moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). A tumor on the brain had the family and friends rightfully concerned. There was a sigh of relief for them after the doctor's visit.

A woman sitting in the corner all alone periodically had tears running down her face. Apparently, a cardiac catheter procedure led to some findings which resulted in an immediate trip to the operating room for her husband. Her anxiety was quite evident.

Others sitting in the room were not as easy to read. However, if you are sitting a surgical waiting room it is obviously not the best place to be hanging out for a good time.

As the time passed my I had concerns of my own. What does it mean when the surgery was an anticipated 90 minutes and it has now reached beyond two hours? Were there complications? Eventually, the doctor came out to see me and assured me that the surgery went fine. Now I simply had to wait another hour for the time in recovery. What was I to make of that when the time went to almost two hours and still I had heard nothing. Oh. They just didn't notify me when she had been moved to a room. Thank you very much.

We are sitting at home this Thanksgiving Day with no fanfare at all. We are quietly resting and recuperating. The snow and cold temperatures make staying at home look pretty appealing. It was about 14 years ago when we were caught in a snowstorm in New Mexico on Thanksgiving Day and Interstate 25 was closed. We had a hot dog for Thanksgiving dinner that year as we were stranded for hours in between Raton and Las Vegas, New Mexico. Sitting comfortably at home with no commotion is just fine in my book.

The holidays can be stressful for many different reasons. Those who have lost loved ones during the past year may find it especially difficult to get through these days. How do you celebrate when your spouse of more than fifty years just recently died? How do you celebrate when you recently had to say good-bye to mom or dad? How do you celebrate when someone you love is battling a life-threatening disease? How do you celebrate when finances are so tight that you can't figure out how to pay the electric bill much less buy Christmas presents or put on a Thanksgiving feast? How do you celebrate if a loved one just recently walked out on you and abandoned you? How do you celebrate if relationships are so strained within your family that you feel like it could snap at any time? These are all legitimate concerns.

If you are struggling these days, please know of my prayers for you. As we enter into the Advent season on Sunday, allow the grace of God to permeate every aspect of your life. Jesus came as a helpless infant. He knows and understands our sufferings, our cares, and our concerns. Let us turn to Him and we will find rest for our souls. Yes, His yoke is easy and His burden light.

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Happy Thanksgiving!

11/25/2015

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Decorations on the ground will soon be mounted on the poles.

Workers were busy this week in Cheyenne getting Capitol Avenue ready for the annual Christmas Parade this Saturday. The forecast of rain, ice, and snow with temperatures only reaching into the teens on Thanksgiving Day will help put us in the mood for the holidays--or it will frustrate the heck out of us as we try to reach our travel destinations to spend the Thanksgiving Holiday with family and friends.

As we prepare to enter into a new Church Year this weekend with the First Sunday of Advent, I thought I would take a brief look backward at this past year. It has been a difficult year in a lot of ways and it hasn't always been easy to be grateful for these challenges. Sometimes when we are in the midst of pain it can be a monumental task to see any of the blessings. They are there, but we may have to look very closely to spot them.

The first week of February my mom fell and broke her hip. It was awful. She had immense pain and struggle for many weeks. The blessings--I happened to be in Missouri visiting when she fell and I was close at hand. Another blessing was to see her determination to walk again. The therapy and rehab was painful for her. Yet, she eventually walked again. That is quite a feat for someone 91 years old.

In March I landed in the hospital myself. I had to cancel a couple of speaking commitments. It took me a long time to find any good in this experience. However, it occurred to me that many people were praying for me. I need that for more things than just my physical health. What a blessing! My illness probably had more of an impact than if I had stayed healthy and showed up to speak.

In May we celebrated our daughter's wedding. Although I didn't feel very well that day, I am grateful I was well enough to be there and to make it through the Father/Daughter dance without collapsing. I wanted to have a dance to remember and we definitely do. We enjoyed watching the video again recently in honor of their six-month anniversary.

In September another brother-in-law died. This was the second one in less than 18 months. The blessing was that we were in Missouri again at this time and my wife got to spend the night in the nursing home with him before he passed away the next day. The blessing of family was evident in many ways.

At the beginning of October I ended up back in the hospital again. Apparently, I needed more prayers. This time I missed commitments centered around Respect Life Sunday. The good news is that I got a different cardiologist and we may actually be making progress this time.

At the end of October my mom died. When she suddenly took a turn for the worse she only lasted two days. Her prayer was to go quickly. I think her prayer was answered. Although hard for me, it was a blessing to her.

In November it was my wife's turn to have a brief stay in the hospital. What is the good news in that? I'm not sure yet. I'm still looking. (It could be that with my bills and her bills we may actually have a combined total large enough to actually deduct medical expenses from our taxes this year. (That is still sad.)

The difficulties, sadness, and pain have been very present during the past year for me personally. It is through these moments that we have the opportunity to recognize all the many blessings and graces as well. As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day I invite you to name very specifically those people, places, and things for which you are sincerely grateful. Take time to let God know of your gratitude. Take time to let the people you love know just how you feel.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Mission--Lent 2016

11/23/2015

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The calendar for 2016 continues to fill with a variety of events. I am looking forward to joining the parishioners of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Casper, Wyoming for a parish mission in Lent. This will be a powerful way to enhance the Season of Lent and focus our attention on the Year of Mercy as well. If you live in the Casper area I hope you will mark these dates on your calendar and plan to participate.

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Northern Colorado Men's Forum--Fort Collins, CO

11/22/2015

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This will be my first official visit to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Fort Collins, Colorado. I am looking forward to gathering with men in the community who are seeking to grow in their faith. The NO CO Men's Forum mission statement says that this is a "Christian ministry providing FELLOWSHIP, ENCOURAGEMENT, and SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT through dynamic and inspiring Catholic talks for men of the community."

Once I read the mission statement I felt a little bit of pressure as to whether or not I can measure up to the expectations. Am I able to bring a healthy dose of encouragement and spiritual nourishment? More importantly, am I able to do it with a style that is dynamic and inspiring? With the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit I will be up to the task. I will do my best to continue the dynamic and inspiring tradition that has been established.

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Seeking Shelter From the Storms Of Life

11/21/2015

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Temperatures dipped quite low this morning and wind chill factors went below zero. I bundled up and headed out for a brief walk despite the cold air. As I prepared to step out the door I noticed a couple of rabbits huddled up close to the house seeking a little shelter from the brisk wind. They were reluctant to give up their warm spot and run away due to my presence, but it was evident they were also a bit concerned as to whether or not I was a friend or foe.

A few days ago I witnessed a jackrabbit running at full steam out of the prairie grass onto the driveway, down to the road, and eventually disappeared from view. A few moments later the unsuccessful coyote in pursuit of the jackrabbit was standing in the driveway and looking for the next opportunity to grab lunch. The coyote was obviously a foe to the jackrabbit. The cycle of life (and death) is ever present for these critters.

On a human level, the recent terror attacks have heightened our fears, if not our awareness. Who is a friend and who is a foe? Does our country (and other countries) accept refugees as they seek shelter from the violence in their homeland? How do we know who is friend and who is foe? There is a legitimate concern for safety. Are we risking attacks in our own homeland by accepting people without a thorough vetting process? The political rhetoric is often detrimental to good decision-making in these difficult times. It seems that there is more interest in scoring political points than there is in solving problems in many instances.

Liberals wanting to throw open our borders with full amnesty and citizenship remind others constantly that they are the compassionate ones living up to Gospel values. If people who call themselves Christian would simply get on board all would be right with the world. They view conservatives as people who are filled with hate and scared of "widows and orphans."

Conservatives remind liberals that we are a nation of laws. Rewarding people who enter the country illegally is not the role of government. The role of government is to enforce the laws. This issue was difficult enough to address before the Syrian refugee crisis, but it has escalated to a whole new level now. One of the constitutional roles of the federal government is to protect the citizens. Will it do that or will it put us in harm by allowing mass immigration with very little safeguards in place?

This type of back and forth posturing is what keeps the 24 hour news channels going. I do not have access to all of the intelligence information provided to our government from a variety of sources. Thus, I cannot make well-informed suggestions as to what we should or should not do. There are enough political pundits already spouting off opinions; I don't need to join that crowd. I have more questions than answers anyway.

1. How did we let the chaos get to this level without prior intervention?
2. How have we allowed the extermination of Christians to take place without getting involved?
3. Who is pulling the political strings in all of this?
4. What are the personal agendas of our leaders?
5. Have the lies, deception, and lust for power among our political leaders become so ingrained that we are a nation headed to self-destruction just as other magnificent empires have done in the past?
6. Are we living in the end times?

As we near the beginning of the Advent season and spend some time reflecting on the second coming of Christ, be sure to seek the Lord's mercy and forgiveness. None of us know the day nor the hour when we will be called from this earth. Be prepared. Seek shelter in the only safe place that exists--the love of Jesus Christ. Welcome the Sacred Heart of Jesus to extend the rays of Divine Mercy into your life.

As we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King this weekend, make a commitment to allow Christ to reign in your life.

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Celebrate Life On January 23, 2016

11/20/2015

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If you live in the state of Wyoming or anywhere near Cheyenne, I hope you will join us for a full day of pro-life activities on Saturday, January 23, 2016. There will also be a "Holy Hour" from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Cathedral of St. Mary on Friday evening, January 22, 2016.

Right to Life Events in Cheyenne

Friday, January 22—Holy Hour from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Cathedral of St. Mary
Saturday, January 23—Mass at 9:00 A.M. at the Cathedral of St. Mary
Complimentary breakfast following Mass in Hartmann Hall
Program at the Depot begins at 11:00 A.M.
The march to the capitol begins at 12:00 noon.
The “Celebrate Life” Banquet will be at 5:30 P.M. at the Little America Hotel. The keynote speaker will be Claire Culwell, an abortion survivor. Tickets for the banquet are $75.00 for one or $125.00 per couple. A child’s ticket is $35.00. For more information please call Dave at 307-631-6142 or visit the Laramie County Right to Life website at www.prolifecheyenne.com.
If you are interested in participating in the annual essay contest please see the website for details. Click on “Essay Contest” in the left hand column to view the details including deadline for submissions. (The website still reflects the dates of the previous contest but will be updated soon to reflect the current submission deadlines.)

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