Thus, I am also taking a close look at my prayer habits (or lack thereof). The month of October is the month dedicated to the rosary. I want to renew my fervor in meditating on the mysteries of the life of Jesus. Praying the rosary with attentiveness is a marvelous way to meditate on the Gospel message of our salvation. I know many non-Catholics struggle with understanding some of the Catholic devotions like the rosary. It is a very Scriptural prayer. The meditations on the mysteries of the rosary cover the life of Jesus. It is the story of our salvation. The Lord's prayer is from the Scriptures. The first half of the "Hail Mary" is from the Scriptures at the time of the Annunciation. We are blessed to have this powerful prayer.
Before sunrise this morning I went for a walk and for some quiet prayer time. It was 34 degrees and the light dusting of snow on the ground was a definite sign that the seasons are changing. The clouds in the sky lit up as the sun approached the horizon. The beauty of God's handiwork is immense. I stopped for a moment and just gazed at the sky. I lifted up in prayer all those who had asked for my prayers. Standing in the majestic beauty of the early morning light, I had no doubt that God was present.
I have a full weekend ahead of me so I better get to work on some things. I will be preaching at the 10:30 A.M. Mass as well as the 12:00 P.M. Mass at the Cathedral this Sunday. In honor of St. Francis of Assisi I will bless animals after the 12:00 Mass in the grassy area by the Cathedral. As soon as that is complete I will make my way to Life Chain which begins at 2:00 P.M. at Powderhouse and Dell Range. Getting to Fort Collins to participate in the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil is also on the "to-do" list.
We pray in hope and hope does not disappoint. Give thanks to God for the gift of life!