Tag Archives: Christian victory

A TIME AND A SEASON

“People came to Jesus with the objection, ‘Why do John’s disciples and those of the Pharisees fast while Yours do not?’ ” —Mark 2:18

The people in today’s Gospel reading thought it was time to fast, although it was time to feast. They had the right idea but the wrong time. You may be doing something appropriate to the way things were twenty years ago but inadequate for the present. For example, if you send your children to the school you attended in your own youth, you may be making a big mistake. That school had its time, but possibly its time is not now, if you want your children to be followers of Jesus.

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Overcoming Temptation

Overcoming temptation. Well, that’s easier said than done. As we strive for victory during our Christian walk, I heard a great message which provides practical tips and Godly wisdom for success.

We all face temptations, but recognizing where they originate, and how to avoid or tackle them, I think will go a long way towards our happiness now and eternally.

Temptations versus Trials.

What’s the difference. The Greek word, peirasmos, is the same word for both temptation and trial, yet we know these words are different. Trial is a test of faith. Whereas, temptation whether from outside or within typically involves a temptation of the flesh.

As we read in the Catechism, “Temptation is an attraction, either from outside oneself or from within, to act contrary to right reason and the commandments of God. Jesus himself during his life on earth was tempted, put to the test, to manifest the opposition between himself and the devil and the triumph of his saving work over Satan (CCC 538).

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“God can make a Message out of a Mess”

This summer I had the opportunity to meet Kelly Schaefer and hear her heart-wrenching, yet incredibly inspirational story. It really got me thinking about how I would handle her situation if it had been mine. One the one hand, it makes me think that with “God All Things are Possible”, because Kelly really makes that Scripture quote real, in that she really has overcome so much with perseverance, and ultimately God’s grace–made all things possible.

To say I was blown away by Kelly, might be an understatement. I came away from Kelly’s presentation with four reactions. First, I have to honestly say, it help me put my own “trials” in perspective. Another thought I had was wow, even with my strong faith in God, I’m not sure how I would handle becoming a quadriplegic over night. Third, it made me appreciate even more the gifts I have been given. And, finally, it challenged me think about how well I am using my gifts for God’s glory.

If you are ready to read an inspirational story, I invite you to read on. And I’d be interested to hear your thoughts and reactions to Kelly’s story.

Blessings,

Brigid

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