Thankful Thursday 2/6/14

Short post today, not for a lack of thankfulness.  I am thankful to be a part of many lives.  I had a migraine earlier in the week, and 2 days later a co-worker commented, "It's good to see the sparkle back in your eyes."  I appreciate that I have people who care enough to notice those things about me.  So my goal is to be more mindful of others and to notice the little things happening in their lives.

Prayer - Lord, may I never take simple gifts for granted.  

Connections

I just finished reading an inspiring book, "The First Phone Call From Heaven" by Mitch Albom.  Read my review here.  It was a neat book, and it brought to mind my recent experience at a funeral.

A friend lost a family member after battling chronic illness.  The death wasn't unexpected, but it was sudden.  The funeral service was on a weekend, and I was able to attend.  I didn't know the deceased, but I wanted to be there for my friend.  As the service began, the pastor spoke of Psalm 23, hope and healing, John 3:16, and many more verses of comfort.  It was an uplifting service, and it reminded me what a blessing it is to believe in Heaven.  My own experiences with death and loss are softened because I know this is not the end.  Grief is still present, and loss is very real, but hope outweighs all of it.

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

http://usccb.org/bible/readings/020214.cfm

Quick recap:
1st Reading - Malachi - references of the temple, which is the focus of the Gospel
Psalm - 24 - Who is this king of glory?  It is the Lord!
Epistle - Hebrews - Jesus shared in our suffering, and we can turn to Him
Gospel - Luke - Presentation of Jesus in the temple

The 4th Joyful Mystery - The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple.  Today, I was struck by the many ways we 'see' Jesus in the Scripture.  The Psalm response talks of a King of Glory, and the Gospel refers to a baby being brought to the temple, according to Jewish custom.  Hebrews refers to Jesus as one like us, who has experienced suffering.  To me, today was an opportunity to remember that Our King of Glory was once a child, and that the Holy Family followed the practice of presenting their child at the temple.  I am reminded that Our King of Glory has experienced suffering and pain, and does understand my pain.  I am humbled that Our King of Glory is present at the Eucharist and invites us to participate in this amazing gift.

More than I can handle

It's been a busy, crazy few weeks.  Lots going on, activities, emotions, health challenges, commitments, and life in general.  I had been trying to talk with a friend to vent my frustrations and we just couldn't get connected.  I figured God was giving me another opportunity to learn patience.  After we finally connected, we were swapping 'war stories', and she mentioned something she read about God giving us more than we can handle.

Wait.  What?!