I made my confession on Good Friday in order to have a clean spirit for the Easter Sunrise Service. It didn’t take long before the dreaded venial sins made their way back into my spirit. As much as I attempted to keep them at bay, I caved in. But something was different this time; I remembered the words the priest shared with me during confession. “Don’t beat yourself up about this because it will hinder your prayer life.” I quickly brushed off the negative thoughts to freed my mind of any guilt. This is what the Devil has mastered: He wants you to beat yourself up and fill you with guilt so that He can make sure that you fall into the abyss. In most situations I am seasoned in my walk with God because I recognize that these traps that the Enemy has set before me can easily be sidestepped. But when I’m under the weather or out of the spirit because of anger, I’m susceptible to the ploys of the Enemy.

Holy Week

I pay for not being organized. Both my husband and daughter are overly organized, but I never bother with checking calendars or writing down important dates. So when Sonja invited us on a camping trip in January, I said yes. As the dates grew closer I came to the realization that this trip was during Holy Week! First of all, I am not a fan of camping, and now I was giving up attending daily Mass to go camping? I was not a “happy camper,” but I knew that God would turn this trip into something spiritual.

This camping trip was surprisingly pleasant. The weather was ordered by God and could not have been more perfect. We stayed in cabins that resembled something from the television series Little House on the Prairie. They were quite charming. No T.V. and spotty internet service was something we got accustomed to on the first night. I  brought my prayer books, kept up with the reading of the Mass, and prayed the Rosary before the night turned pitch black. The sounds of  baritone frogs filled the night air, but morning brought red-headed woodpeckers that sounded like someone was knocking at the door. I thought about  all these little critters that are part of the big picture in God’s creation. Back home I rarely pay attention to the sparrows, and the sounds that I’m accustomed to are fire engines blaring and the neighbors’ dogs’ occasional barking.

I suffer from environmental allergies; and all this crisp, fresh air was kicking up and making me suffer from itchy eyes, and my nose was tormented by all the unfamiliar weeds in full bloom. I had one allergy pill, but it was out of code. Needless to say, I did not get any sleep. Instead I prayed for my daughter-in-law Jenny’s brother, who is hospitalized with COVID-19. I offered up my suffering for his healing.

Hiking

We got up early to hike to visit the llamas. Llamas live to be about 20 years old, but the El Capitan llamas are over 30 years old. They graze on grass while looking into the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Goats, sheep  and one short donkey make their home here as well. Surprisingly, I made my way up with ease but was worried about the hike down. I started to look for a sturdy stick to use as an aid going back down the hill. My son-in-law Russ had the same idea and had already whittled one for me.

If you want to see the sunset a hike is required. I made a loud declaration that I was going to see the sun go down. Russ quickly said that he noticed a hiking path up the mountain that was perfect for the viewing. It took about five minutes to reach the start of this so-called path. Russ, Jacob and I followed the narrow path. They were way ahead of me as I carefully made my way up the path. It was filled with holes that I imagined were snake dwellings. Worst of all, I forgot to bring the walking stick. Looking down the entire way up, we finally made it to the top. This seemed to me to be as victorious as reaching the summit of Mt. Everest! My first thought was the feeling of oneness with God. Then I looked toward the sea and just a few hundred yards down the hill were campers! Russ insisted on staying until the sun fully set. Though I wanted to oblige, the snake holes were still a fresh thought. I accomplished this downhill hike by praying the Hail Mary all the way down.

Family

We see our daughter Sonja and her family at least four times a week. Traveling shed new light on how this little family really operates.  Sonja is patient and loving, but, most importantly, she and Russ discipline with a stern yet soft hand. The only thing Lucas and Jacob get away with is eating too many sweets and overly using their devices.

Every morning, just like the woodpeckers, Jacob would come into our cabin to see if we needed anything. Russ, Mike and Jacob would walk down to the country store to purchase breakfast and coffee. This camping trip was what can be referred to as semi-camping because we did drive back into civilization (Santa Barbara) for a few dinners.

He Is Risen

Serving communion during the Easter Sunrise Service was an honor. I got teary eyed at the Mass when a family of about seven came up for a blessing. They were followed by Lucas, Jacob, Sonja and Russ. Great joy filled my heart to participate in this glorious morning. We can now sing Alleluia! He is Risen!

My Prayer

Dear Lord,  through Your Glorious Resurrection I thank You for the price You paid for our sins. I continue to pray for those who are suffering from COVID-19 and other life-threatening diseases. Lord, reveal Yourself to them and heal them. Lord, I pray for those who have lost loved ones. Bring them comfort and hold them through this pain. Amen.

Jesus Wept

The shortest verse in the Bible comes from the Book of John: “Jesus wept.” To better understand the meaning of this verse you have to understand the humanity of Jesus, He was fully God and fully man. When Jesus heard that his friend Lazarus had died, and his sisters, Mary and Martha, were mourning his loss, He wept. Jesus wept because of the love and sympathy He shared with this family. Our Lord asked to be led to the tomb, even though Lazarus had been dead for four days. In the natural, anyone would have had the same reaction as Martha. “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days” ( John 11:39 New American Standard Revised). Jesus reminds her that if you believe, you would see the glory of God.

Years ago I was part  of a lay ministry that produced plays to reenact this scene. Mr. Bob always played the part of Lazarus. Mr. Bob was well into his seventies, over six feet tall, he was a character in real life. His voice was loud and animated, his wiry, snow white hair was always unruly. He was bone thin and always wore tan work boots with socks  that long ago wore out their elastic band. These reenactments were held  in a building that was once a restaurant. Toward the back of the building  were two small storage rooms. When it was time for Lazarus to come out of the tomb, Mr. Bob came out with what resembled mummy wrappings. He held his arms straight out, looking more like a horror movie. As he made his way down the aisle, no words could truly express the look on people’s faces; some were smiling and holding in their laughter, while others looked on in amazement. Mr. Bob did a fine job scaring the children.

Lazarus Raised From the Dead

The Roman authorities, and Pharisees were not happy to hear that Lazarus was raised from the dead because this caused many Jews to follow this controversial rabbi.  All this was taking place six days before Passover; Christians refer to this period as Holy Week.

Palm Sunday

When Jesus made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem He rode on a donkey. This simple beast of burden was a sign of humility because this is what Jesus exemplified in His ministry. Palm Sunday is a great celebration; palm branches were used as a symbol of praise. The people shouted out,”Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel.” (John 12:13 New American Standard Revised). The word Hosanna in Hebrew means “Save us!” As Catholics we receive palm branches. Because, they are blessed they cannot be thrown away; they need to be incinerated. This is were we get the ashes we use for Ash Wednesday.

I can only speak for myself, but this is an emotional, spiritual journey for me. The excitement of Easter opens our hearts to the Resurrection of our Lord, but before we arrive we must go through the path that Jesus led us.

The Unbelievers

Soon after Jesus spoke of his death.  Some of His rebellious followers, who had witnessed many miracles, stopped believing. How does this happen? They were there when Lazarus was raised from the dead! This strange phenomenon is still happening today. People attend church; go through the motions yet continue their sinful ways. The great prophet Isaiah was right when he wrote,”He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, least they should see with their eyes and perceive with their heart, and turn to me to heal them.” (John 12:40 New American Standard Revised). God’s response to unbelievers is to blind them and harden their hearts. Until people understand the concept of free will, they will forever wander in front of the Temple of God, not knowing why they are on the outside. Jesus invites all to come to His great and mighty temple. There you will find rest. The world will offer you a pseudo life of material wealth, but what good is it if your heart is hardened against God?

Jesus Washes the Feet of His Disciples

During the many times I have visited the Holy Land, I can always remember the howling winds in the middle of the night. The old windows rattles and the worn out drapes wave when the wind makes it way through the unstable incasements. It gets very windy there and the dust kicks up and dirties the entire region. It was no different in the time of Jesus; people in sandals walked for miles and their feet got dirty. The Upper Room in the Old City is located in the Jewish section. We usually pay a small stipend to visit this holy site. As we participated in the washing of each other’s feet by borrowing the wastebaskets and towels from our hotel. Yes, we were a sight –  the only Americans walking around the Old City with plastic trash cans.

When Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, He took the role of a servant. This task was usually done by household slaves, never by the host. This beautiful act of humility will always serve as a reminder of the paradox of Jesus’ character.

Judas’ Betrayal

Jesus knew who would betray Him. Judas was the disciple who complained when Mary anointed Jesus with the expensive spikenard. He didn’t care about the poor because he already had his dirty hands in the money box. (John 13:5-6). Jesus exposes Judas during the Last Supper; the other disciples were unaware of the malice. When you’re a thief, you’re a liar as well. Satan had already planted a seed of corruption in Judas’ heart. After Judas receives the morsel, he leaves to do his dirty work. It was night, and that is when the Devil does his deceitful work because he loves the cover of darkness.

Good Friday

The Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu shares a good view of the Garden of Gethsemane. The translation of Gallicantu is “the rooster crows.” Peter denied Jesus three times in Gallicantu, just as he slept three times while Jesus prayed in agony. After the Resurrection in the last chapter of the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks to Peter (John 21:15-17). Three times the Lord asked Peter, “Simon Peter, do you love me?” Jesus was passing on to Peter the responsibility of pastoral authority. Christ made Peter the head of the Universal Church. St. Peter became our first Pope.

On Good Friday our beautiful Lord is led down the Via Dolorosa to meet His imminent death.  He is whipped, spat upon and mocked every step of the way, while His accusers boldly cry out, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” His Mother Mary, helpless in every sense, looks up at her only Son in great despair. Her eyes have shed so many tears. To witness His death was like a sword piercing her broken heart.

The Resurrection 

We have expended our share of great rainfall this winter . The azaleas surround the front of our home and are fully dressed for Easter. This is our heavenly reminder that just as these flowers come back to life year after year, our Lord is faithful in giving us tangible signs as a reminder of His Resurrection.

You can find the story of the Resurrection in all four gospels. We all know the ending of the story: Christ rose from the dead, and He is our everlasting Savior! Celebrating the  Resurrection is the climax of all Christianity. We give God the glory, for without the Resurrection, we have no hope.

My Prayer

Dear Lord, as we enter Holy Week, may we be forever mindful of our spiritual direction. Continue to guide us in this Lenten journey. May we keep our eyes on Your holy Cross. Lord, lead us out of the dark and narrow paths and into Your glorious light. May we never deny Your existence, or betray You in any way. Lord, I pray that millions will return to Your Church Easter Sunday. Amen.

We are entering into the fifth week of Lent. Thus far I’ve had a good Lent, meaning that I have not broken my promise in what I gave up for this holy season. Each year I struggle with the sacrifices and usually fall from grace the first week of Lent. For thirty or so years the desire of my heart has been to lose weight, at least 20 pounds. So I gave up eating bread and sweets; unfortunately I was never able to succeed.

This year was different; much to my husband Mike’s surprise, I gave up shopping. I shop for myself at least once a week, purchasing clothing, household items or whatever. I’m a regular at Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and Nordstrom Rack. These are my favorites; I never spend a lot of money, but it does add up.

Last week I visited my sister Norma in Arizona. She was excited to share that Marshall’s had opened a store just a stone’s throw away from her. As tempting as this sounded, I never gave in. We attended Mass at All Saints Church in Mesa, Arizona instead. I was surprised by seeing all the parishioners. These people are faithful in their attendance because Norma sees them here on a regular basis. In spite of the social distancing, the church was pretty packed for a weekday Mass.

I have discovered a new way  to shop. I’ve been shopping online by placing items into a virtual bag and waiting for Lent to end so that I can make the purchase. Now this technique is not working out so well because most of the time I receive a notification that the items are no longer available. This saddens me for a few seconds, but then I remember the purpose for this sacrifice.

Sacrifice

If the Lord can sacrifice His life on the Cross for us, how hard can it be for me to follow this simple oblation? I want to be used by the Lord so this is a perfect lesson on obedience. I liken it to a test of spiritual growth by trusting that God will see me through this. If you have failed in your Lenten sacrifices, it’s not too late to start anew. Remember we serve a merciful God.

Drawing Water From the Well

The Samaritans lived in  a region north of Jerusalem. They are an ancient, ethnoreligious group descendant from Jews who had not been taken into captivity and deported but who remained in Samaria. They intermarried with the Assyrians who had been brought into the land after the  Assyrians conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 721 B.C.  The Samaritans accepted only the first five books of the Hebrew Bible as their biblical canon. They rejected the writings of the prophets and all the Jewish traditions because they considered Judaism as an altered religion brought back with the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile in 539 B.C. (after the conquest of Judah, the Southern Kingdom by Babylon in 597 B.C.) They worshiped at the temple on Mount Gerazim, instead of the temple of Mount Moriah in Jerusalem because they considered it the original holy place where Abraham almost sacrificed his son Isaac. They were so despised by the Jews that the Jews would cross over the river Jordan and take a longer route to avoid going through Samaria. The Samaritans also harbored animosity toward the Jews.

The fourth chapter of the Gospel of  John speaks of the Woman of Samaria. The story of the woman at the well depicts Jesus breaking with tradition by conversing with a woman in public and sharing a drink with a Samaritan. In other words He was associating with a woman who was racially despised, a half-Jew/a half-gentile whose religious beliefs were considered heresy.

Jesus offered the Samaritan woman living water. With this water we will never thirst again. A human being can survive three to five days without water, but this living water represents eternal salvation. We should all desire the living water, especially during Lent.

Jesus knew all of the sins of this Samaritan woman, as He called them out, she perceived Him to be a prophet. This same Jesus sees all of our sins and, just as He was eager to forgive this Samaritan woman, we, too, can be forgiven.

Our Garden of Gethsemane

When Jesus went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane, He asked His disciples to pray so that they would not enter into temptation. Jesus was in deep agony and prayer, so much so that His sweat turned into blood. When Jesus rose from prayer, He found His disciples sleeping. Again Jesus tells them to rise and pray that they may not enter into temptation. Three times Jesus asked His disciples to pray, but they gave in to the temptation because of their weaked spirit.

When we go into deep, contemplative prayer, we become one with God. Prayer keeps us from making irrational decisions; it helps us to choose our words and, most importantly, it keeps us from temptation. I cannot tell you how many times I want to say something mean and hurtful but when I open my mouth, it is as if God has placed a filter over it; so when I speak I’m surprised at the kind words that come forth.

If I am asked to pray for someone, it is my duty before God to intercede on their behalf. The Lord will always give me a signal as to when to cease with this prayer. During the height of COVID-19, our prayer group offered prayers of intercession and supplication on behalf of many suffering from this virus and other serious illnesses. Every night we’d meet at 8 p.m. via group FaceTime. We prayed for more than two months. What great joy we shared when receiving text messages of praise reports of healings! Thank you Helen, Marianela, and Sarah. Great is your reward!

My Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, I come to You with thanksgiving and praise. Thank You for all that You have bestowed upon our hearts to know You and to be used for Your Kingdom. Lord, allow us special time in our Garden of Gethsemane; meet us there and help us through all of our trials. When we feel alone, gently touch us so that we can feel Your Holy Presence. Lord, may we never forget the pain You endured while carrying Your Cross. May we be so gracious as we carry our own crosses. Be with us in our time of mourning and bring comfort to our hearts, knowing those whom we have lost will be in Your loving arms. Amen.