Broken Bones

I'm grateful that I have never broken a bone before nor has my daughter. But, it seems like lately many students at school are wearing casts for various broken bones. I will often ask students how it happened and most often than not it was a simple thing of something like falling off a scooter or bike. The normal activity caused the break despite all the precaution and previous experience in the world. Thankfully, after several weeks, the cast comes off and all is back to "normal" in life. Perhaps make the student even more aware for the future in similar situations.

In our lives there are everyday situations and circumstances that break us and it can be painful. We are in need of a deep healing and that can take some time to happen in full. In the meantime, we wear our casts of covering the pain in prayer, visiting our ultimate healer in the Sacraments even more frequently, ask others to cover us in prayer, and keep going trying to do our day to day as best as we can under our circumstances.  In time, all will heal, and though we always continue to seek God through the Sacraments and prayer, we can shift our attention to other things.

In the meantime, let's continue to pray for one another - whether we notice their cast covering their brokenness or not. We all at one time or another suffer in some form of brokenness that needs to be carried to our Lord.

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Lord, there are times I feel like a broken bone. I know in those moments I need to turn to you for healing. While I'm in the process of being healed, please cover me and protect me from all other evils and harm. Thank you Lord for always hearing my prayer. Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Pumpkin spice everything

Oh fall! The time of the year that pumpkin spice everything appears all over the place. Pumpkin spice lattes, cereals, granola bars, chips, pastas, candles, creamers, and the list could keep going on of everything out there. There are strong opinions on this. Many believe that pumpkin spice should not be everywhere and strictly only in pie. Then, there are others who excitedly embrace all things with the label. I'd like to think of myself of somewhere in between (I do enjoy a few local coffee shops' version of a pumpkin spice latte and certain pastries/products with the seasoning are quite fabulous.)

Putting this in a spiritual scenario, how do I feel about putting Jesus in lots of different parts of my life? Am I open to trying to put Christ somewhere different or new? Do I embrace Jesus when He does come into a part of my life I was not expecting? Do I box Jesus in to my set prayer times or naturally or casually bring him into my work, time with family, time with friends, or my leisure time? What if we met Jesus throughout our day with as much enthusiasm as we do for our pumpkin spiced everything?

Over the course of time I have invited Jesus into more parts of my life, but still have a ways to go. I have parts to continue to try and openly embrace Jesus into. For the parts that I have, I see a difference in what happens and an openness to the possibilities.

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Lord, give me the courage to invite you into all parts of my life - even if it seems a bit new and different. Allow me the graces I need to have you always on my heart throughout the day during my work, time with others, and in my own prayer time. In your name, Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Warming up and stretching out

Many trainers and exercise experts will strongly recommend before a workout to warm up. Frequently they will also recommend taking the time to cool down or stretch out after - especially if it were an extremely strenuous workout. It can feel really good to stretch out those muscles that worked hard and take the time to sit and be before jumping in the shower and moving on.

I think the same approach could be taken with Mass - the ultimate prayer workout. Now, I get it sometimes we are flying by the seat of our pants to get to Mass for one reason or another (ex: the baby had a major blow out before getting into the car seat, flat tire and had to take a different car, unforeseen road closure or back up, etc.) But, usually we are able to arrive a few minutes ahead of time. This time could be used to warm up in prayer - calling upon the Holy Spirit to be present, looking at the readings before Mass, and bringing to mind anyone or anything you'd like to lift up in prayer. This will help orient our mind to be open to this very holy and special time of prayer.

Because Mass is such an ultimate prayer work out (praying as a community and individually, through scripture, in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, and invoking those in heaven to join us in prayer) we need a few moments to pray and stretch out after Mass is complete. We can reflect upon something said in the homily, something from one of the readings or Eucharistic prayer, or simply in thanksgiving for the time spent with the Lord. Now, having a toddler I totally get it that sometimes the prayer and stretch out after Mass is simply "I love you Lord!" God sees your efforts.

From encouragement of friends, priests, spiritual mentors and directors, and others who have gone before me I have been doing this for quite some time. I have found that Mass is often more fruitful and meaningful. So, if you are in a spiritual drought or feeling fatigued from Mass lately - take a few moments before and after Mass to warm up and stretch out. I don't think your efforts will be in vain and in God's time, blessings will come.

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Father, I thank you for the gift of the Mass. May I always be able to take a few moments before to warm up to this time of prayer and a few minutes after to stretch out. May this time be fruitful to lead to a deeper love of you and a deeper relationship with you. In your name, Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

"Kiss!"

I feel like the past month has been very busy for my husband and I where we are working more hours to meet deadlines and get back into the swing of school. There was a night I was about to leave for my hour of adoration in the chapel and giving hugs and kisses goodbye to my daughter and husband and my daughter says with great emphasis with her hands on my head and my husband's, "Kiss!" It was super cute and made our little family chuckle. She will frequently do this - whether if one of us is running off to a meeting/work, someone just got home, or just because. It always makes us smile and pause, well to kiss of course. :)

It can be sometimes difficult to show our affection to our Lord for different reasons. I know recently I have been trying to teach my daughter at our night prayer together to say "Thank you Jesus." and "I love you, Jesus." as I say it for myself too. I think these little signs of affection may be brief, but just enough of a kiss to pause and put things into perspective. So, taking a cue from my own little toddler, in my own prayer life I try to take a few opportunities throughout the day to kiss Christ by what I say in my prayers, by kissing a crucifix, or saying the words, "I love you Lord! Thank you for loving me too!" I know this brings joy not just to Christ, but to myself as well.

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Lord, I love you and all you have done for me. I give you this moment as an act of my love for you. May I always be ready, open, and joyful to show my deep affection for you. In your name, Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Is it in you?

There are homilies over the past many years that have stuck with me. Some because they are so quotable, a great story, or it just hits right at the heart at the right time. This one I share with you I remember where I sat in the church with tears in my eyes. Every time I listen to it, hits right at the heart despite being over 9 years ago when I first heard it. There have been times I have used this homily as part of an examination of conscious creating a fruitful Sacrament of Reconciliation. May Fr. Gary's words be as touching to you as it is for me.

Is it in you?

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Father, there are times I am full of pride and criticize the wrong of others. Guide me to humility to remember that I myself carry those same marks that others have as well. Be present with me as I make a good and humble confession. 

Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Keeping with the workout routine

I find that the month of January is full of new individuals at the gym who are desiring to improve their health and/or fitness. Any gym junkie will tell you all the machines seem to be more frequently in use than they were just a month ago. However, sometime in late January things seem to slow down. Many of those who committed to a resolution to go to the gym multiple times a week or to lose x amount of weight seem to have stopped. There can be a number of reasons for this and every person has their own, but I think most frequently it is because it is hard to maintain the dedication with busy lives and results take a long time to see. Staying committed and losing weight/becoming more fit will not take a single workout to do, but time and practice. At the end of the day - regardless if you see results or not - you still did your body good by working out.

To be honest with you, there have been times that I start off with high aspirations and goals in my prayer life with either spiritual exercises or intentions. There have, however, been a few intentions in my prayer life I have been carrying for a long time and having these same sort of "I'm not seeing or feeling any results and I'm growing weary of being dedicated to these intentions." After a minute I realized that it is doing my prayer life good to keep going and not give up. It is not for me to "see" results or "feel" results in my prayer, but maintain the discipline to have a healthy prayer life and turn to Him. Just like working out, I may want something out of it, but really it is maintaining that spiritual discipline and turning to God with these things. So, if you are feeling possibly this way about an intention or prayer in general - don't give up...keep working out with our Lord because you will grow spiritually stronger!

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Father God, Thank you for always being patient with me when I want to give up on an intention or spiritual exercise. Help me to remain steadfast and know that I am gaining spiritual health and strength from my persistence. In your name, Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Being stuck behind the "slow car"

Recently our family took a road trip. If you have ever been on an extensive road trip anywhere you know there is a great likelihood of getting stuck behind a slow car at some point during the trip. This is especially true if there is construction or if it is a single lane road. There are times that this can feel like a nuisance and a bit frustrating. It can even be more frustrating when you are trying to pass them, but can't no matter what you do.

But, what if being stuck behind the slow car was actually a good thing for us?

We are so rush-rush in our lives. We eagerly await the next thing - next holiday - next adventure - the next moment. We move on from the old even before it is finished! (Think about the number of Christmas trees you see on the curb before Christmas Day is done.) When we are forced to slow down and not pass by the present opportunity we are truly living in the moment. Even when we are asked to embrace the slowness in front of us, we are still moving.

I know for me there have been times in my prayer that I'm asking God "Ok, what next?!" I'm ready to pass this slow and steady and do the next adventure. But perhaps it is simply for me to enjoy this slow and steady - to be present to each God given moment with joy. It is perhaps for me to be full of gratitude for this moment as it will not come again.

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Thank you Lord for the times you force me to be behind the slow car! Help me be present to each beautiful moment you have given me and not fret on what is to come next or wanting to get to the next thing faster. In your name, Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

You are not a stick

With the summer comes thunderstorms that sometimes can be quite strong. Recently we had a storm that rolled it's way through and out all within the morning hours allowing my daughter and I to take an evening walk. However, our walk was quite the adventure avoiding the fallen parts of trees along our route. Though nothing severe, there were times that we had to do a detour because of the fallen debris.

The thing about these sticks and fallen debris (aside from being a bit annoying if walking with a stroller) is once they are off the tree they are no longer connected - no longer a living part of the tree. They are unable to continue to sprout leaves or grow any sort of fruit. Most people do not really seem to find a purpose (unless you are a child who is playing outside or a crafty-person making something...) with them and will either put them in a compost pile or bag them up to be thrown away.

It may seem silly to say this, but you are not a stick. You are not a piece of debris no longer bearing fruit or life. You are not something to be thrown away or onto a compost pile. You are not something that is a nuisance to others.  In fact, you are still a living part of the tree - you are a living branch.* You are connected to people and are giving an opportunity to bring fruit in many directions. Sometimes there is a good growing year and other times it is great to just have grown a millimeter. Either way, there is good that comes from you because you are living, breathing, and loving human being in this world doing God's work.

****

Lord, 

Thank you for giving me this time to grow and branch out to my family, friends, co-workers, and community. I pray that in my interactions with others that I can bear great fruit and bring others closer to you. I pray that those who are feeling abandoned or "thrown out" are graced with your loving comfort and compassion. For those who are feeling dead in their faith or deeply depressed with their current life circumstances, may they be given the graces needed to remember they are part of the tree and connected to you. 

All these things we pray in your most holy name,

Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

*Read John 15

Passing on the left

Have you ever been waiting at a red light and it just turns green and this car seems to be zooming up past you? They seem to be flying by while you are barely moving. There can even be a bit of an annoyance of "I had been waiting at this light a long time and yet they didn't and breezed on by!" There can also be another thought of "Oh, they are driving too fast!" Regardless of our thoughts on this, each car was found in its own unique circumstances. 

The same can be said and should be said about the spiritual life. It can appear that a friend or family member is soaring in their relationship with God. It can appear that all is easy and going well for that person while you are feeling stuck. However, you may not know the stops they had before the way or will have on their continued journey. To quote Theodore Roosevelt, "Comparison is the thief of joy." God has a reason and purpose for where each soul is in the journey of life. In some way or another - in some time or another- we all will find ourselves at the end goal of heaven whether we had to stop at 100 red lights or if we were privileged to hardly ever stop and keep traveling. 

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Lord, Give me the graces I need to embrace where you want me to be in relationship with you right in this present moment. Thank you Lord for always loving me and giving me what I need. 

In your name, Amen. 

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Singing Karaoke with the Saints

There has been a few times in my life thus far that I have gotten to sing karaoke. At a friend's birthday, some girls' night outs, and just because it sounded like fun to friends have been such occasions for the singing. The most memorable time was when a friend had purchased an old machine that had "holiday" songs on it. It was used well for a 4th of July and St. Patrick's day get together! 🙂 How much fun is it to sing along to some songs that are loved and so good?!

The thing about karaoke though is the majority of us do not have that stellar voice just like the artist. And even if we do have a great voice, it will not sound exactly the same as the original for one reason or another. Nevertheless, it is a good time singing along with whatever musical artist and song we have picked.

In our church, we have a number of beautiful souls (the Saints who have been canonized and the saints who have not been) who have gone before us that created their own song here on earth. Some of their tunes are more familiar than others. And some of them are our own anthem we hope to emulate as well. But, the thing about it is, no matter how "perfect" or well done we preform the song that was created before us - it is not our own and will not sound the same. There is nothing wrong with following in others' footsteps to grow closer to Christ, but no matter how hard I try I will not be St. Francis de Sales,  Pope St. John Paul II, or St. Elizabeth of the Trinity. My circumstances, my life, my journey is completely and uniquely my own than all the Saints in heaven. These Saints can inspire me and guide me to discover my own song that God has laid before me. In the meantime, I will continue to enjoy their beautiful melodies left on earth and sing along with them karaoke style.

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Father, 

Thank you for the gift of so many beautiful souls who walked this earth that are now Saints in union with you in heaven. Their melodies left behind pointing towards you make us here on earth want to sing along with them. May I always remember that you have chosen a specific melody for me and all your children here and I'm not expected to sing the same song as some of these great Saints. It is not so much about being exactly like my brothers and sisters, but being my authentic self to praise you and draw others closer to you. 

In your name I pray, Amen. 

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Catholic Podcasts

Since the beginning of this calendar year I have found myself listening to more podcasts. There are a routine few I consistently listen to and wanted to share just in case you are looking for something to listen to on a long road trip coming up, in the middle of doing housework, or just to find something uplifting in the middle of your day. I pray that they can uplift you and draw you closer to Christ.

Catholic Sprouts: Daily Podcast for Catholic Kids

Don't let the "for kids" part discourage you from listening. These are less than 10 minute daily podcasts on a week long topic. She gives a challenge for kids to complete, but really they are good challenges for those of us who are simply a kid at heart. For the summer they are doing replays of previous weeks, but will be back in August with new episodes.

My favorite weeks: Eucharistic Miracles (May 2019) and Hope (January 2019)



The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Oh man...I really appreciate Fr. Mike Schmitz's podcasts! They always seem to hit home for me and once again are usually no more than 10 minutes. He talks on a wide variety of topics ranging from church teaching to relationships with others. I cannot recommend him enough!

My favorite episodes: Acceptance (December 2016), Making a Good confession (December 2016), Overwhelmed (December 2016) Dealing with Stress (May 2018), and Do you want to be well? (April 2019)



Catholic Stuff You Should Know

It took me a bit to get into this podcast because it was almost like walking into the middle of a group of people having known each other for years and trying to keep up on the conversation. They are a group of Byzentyne priests in Colorado who have really taken to heart to evangelize using the technology we have in this world. They start their podcasts with some general conversation and then get into the topic at hand. These are usually about an hour long so it is great for a longer commute home or in the middle of making dinner. I will say, if you do give it a try and find yourself not as much of a fan, give it 3 episodes and then you will be hooked. :)

My favorite episodes: Community via Brokenness (January 2019), #StayDangerous (March 2019), Erin Planned (April 2019), and Did Jesus Walk Like an Egyptian? (May 2019)




Blessed is She - The Gathering Place

This was another podcast that took me a little bit to get into, but I think I started with the wrong episode. These are usually about 20 minute long episodes that focus on a wide variety of spirituality topics for women. Jenna and Beth (the 2 who are hosts on the podcasts) are very honest and open about their own spirituality, faith, struggles, and life experiences that makes it really all the more inviting to listen to.

My favorite episodes: Shame, Porn, and Spoonfuls of Grace (February 2019), Adventure is around the corner (March 2019), It's not about the answer (April 2019), and What's your Anthem? (June 2019)



Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

A Mother's Rosary - Sorrowful Mysteries

Truth be told there are times that praying my rosary is hard. Not because of my daughter's rambunctiousness distracting me, but my own heart struggling to be present to the beautiful mysteries with Christ. There was a day when trying to pray the Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesdays and Fridays traditionally) that motherhood overcame me and my ability to truly focus, so I decided I'd walk those things on my heart with the Lord. What I share with you below is a snapshot of what came to me. I hope it can be a source of prayer for other mamas out there that are struggling to focus on Christ in the midst of chaotic motherhood. 

The First Sorrowful Mystery - The Agony of the Garden

Christ has entered into the garden with his disciples and asks them to pray. Yet, they fall asleep on him - not just once, but 3 times! Despite this, Christ loves his disciples and prays for God's will to be done though fully knowing the events about to take place.

Lord, as a mom, there are times I hide away in a bathroom/pantry/closet to cry and pray. I know that there are dirty dishes in the sink, laundry to be folded, and children needing to be taken to their various activities that are all part of your will for me. With my older children I ask them to help put away their toys or to close the door before running outside to play, but they do not always do what I ask. Despite the work to be done, despite the challenges ahead of me, and despite my children not always doing what I have asked, I know that you are in this garden with me - praying with me. 

The Second Sorrowful Mystery - The Scourging at the Pillar

Christ was taken by the soldiers to be stripped of his garments, beaten, and mocked. He was tortured and did not fight back - not even with a word of hate or malice towards those hurting him. In all this, Christ continued to love. 

Lord, those words of my children saying, "I hate you!" or screaming at me gnaw away at my restless soul. When my children were younger, the physical beating of getting bit, kicked, and pushed away also took a toll on me. You once could not get enough of me and showered me with "I love you mommy!" and gave gifts of flowers from the backyard seem like a lifetime away. I know that in this spiritual and emotional beating you Lord have already walked this path. I know that you can clasp my hands and whisper in this faint mother's heart, "This too shall pass."

The Third Sorrowful Mystery - The Crowning of Thorns

After Christ is beaten, the soldiers place a crown of thorns upon his head. A sign of humiliation and mocking that Christ continues to endure without saying a word against the men doing it to him. 

My Lord, I can feel the crown of thorns being placed on my head when my child becomes the scene in the middle of the store crying because I will not let them grab 30 bags of chips. I can feel the crown of thorns when my child repeats something that should not have come out of my own mouth. Motherhood gives the opportunity to walk in humility with you Lord. When I become embarrassed from the crown of thorns adorned on my head, help me remember that you did not hide it but accepted the moment. Allow me the graces to accept each moment as it comes.

The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery - The Carrying of the Cross

Christ was given a cross to carry to his own death. It was not a cross he asked for or picked out, but simply given to him. Though heavy as the cross was, he carried it and continued to love. 

Lord, sometimes being a mom there are some obvious crosses while other times they are deeply hidden in my heart. The cross of trying to comfort an infant while tending to my school-aged child's homework help needs to the cross of folding the 4th basket of laundry after everyone in the house getting the stomach bug to the worry of will my child be loved by his/her teacher next year after a tumultuous year. I know that you are right with me carrying these crosses and will help me - and for that it makes this weight so much easier to carry.

The Fifth Sorrowful Mystery - The Crucifixion of Christ

After being beaten, humiliated, and carrying a weight that was not asked for but given - the soldiers crucified Christ on the cross. He endured this suffering and died for our sinfulness. 

Lord, there are times that my physical, emotional, and spiritual exhaustion is overwhelming. My oldest forgot she/he has a project due tomorrow, the baby is sick, and my husband is out of town - but work has to be done. I surrender my whole self to your will to do what I need to do for my children whom I love with my entire being. You have given me the model of this total and free self-giving love - even when it does not seem to be deserved or merited. Lord, when I feel this overwhelming sense of "I don't know if I can give anymore" help me remember how you always gave everything for us. 

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

 

Going for the fruit or the fruit snacks?

There are times with having a toddler that snacks that are already pre-packaged are easier to grab to eat in a pinch rather than taking the time to cut and prepare actual fruits, veggies, or "healthy" foods. But even before having a toddler I would all to frequently fall into the trap of going for the things that maybe are not the most healthy, but are convenient to grab quickly. However, when I take the time to cut and prepare the fruits, veggies, and other better for me things as a snack it is more filling and nourishing for my body. I've also realized that it sustains me so much longer than a small little bag of fruit snacks.

Prayer can take effort and time to do meaningfully. By no means am I saying that I cannot enter prayer at this very moment as I type on my computer - sometimes that does happen. But, to really enter into a space with God, I have to find my quiet (well, relative quiet sometimes with my daughter 🙂), be present, and spend some time with Him. It can take planning and can push me out of my comfort zone to really do well, but when I do with good practice and frequency I know good fruit comes. I may not always see the fruits, but there is something satisfying that sustains me for the day with some good and intentional prayer time.

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God, There are times that I know I can be lazy and not be intentional with my prayer times. Help me remember that it is when I am intentional, quiet myself, and tune my mind totally to you that good fruit will come from my efforts. In your name, Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Do you make your bed everyday?

About 5 years ago there was a commencement address given by Admiral William H. McRaven where he gives really fabulous advice to the graduates based on his training as a Navy SEAL. Though he has many really good points, there is one that I regularly go back to about making your bed. Like many military branches, their beds would be inspected daily. This mundane task was part of the necessary routine, but over time Admiral McRaven shared how this simple task provided so much wisdom. In his speech he says,

"If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right.

And, if by chance you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that is made — that you made — and a made bed gives you encouragement that tomorrow will be better."

How often are we faithful to the seemingly simple prayers such as the "Our Father" or "Hail Mary" or prayer before meals? I think of these prayers as the "making your bed" prayers every morning - they are brief, simple, and concrete. However, I'll be first to admit that sometimes saying these prayers can feel too simple and not as exciting as a sung Divine Mercy Chaplet or participating in a praise and worship session, but they are the building blocks to more prayer and some of the deeper prayers we have in our faith. 

Truth be told too, there are times on our spiritual journeys that I feel that praying can be rough. Maybe we are facing a crisis or there are distractions in our way - going back to these "making the bed" prayers can be an easy way to get back to God. Maybe the chaos or struggle continues for awhile, but at the end of the day you can still know you turned to God despite it all and there is small joy in all of that. 

****

Father God, 

Thank you for giving us these simple, yet profound prayers to pray daily. Allow me the graces to pray these prayers faithfully each day to be able to do even more praying and praising. When I'm in a spiritual drought or challenging circumstance, help me remember I can go back to these prayers anytime and find you there. All this in your name,

Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand, 

Elizabeth

Going through the mud

It has been a very rainy May around here. So much so that whenever my daughter and I are able to get out for a walk, we do it, otherwise we may not be able to for another couple of days. Because of the rain, many of our routes there is mud or puddles on the sidewalk/trail and you have to go through them. I always feel that I become super aware of my footing and slow down when coming across this. Now, I could choose to just stop and turn around, but we would not have the opportunity to see and experience all that we do and eventually get to our destination. So going through a bit of mud is worth the efforts. 

There are times in our prayer lives that we are being asked to carefully walk through a bit of mud. Perhaps there is "nothing" going on, but God is simply asking you to slow down and focus on Him. Or maybe there are changes or challenges in life currently - rather than giving up and saying "Nope...not going to even try!" God is inviting you to walk through it with Him. Once we get through the mud, we are able to walk more confidently the rest of the journey and get to our destination of ultimately heaven.

****

Lord God, 

I recognize that right now I may see a bit of mud before me, but there is a much better destination ahead that I am working towards. I need you to guide me through this mud carefully so I can grow closer to you and not give up even if I feel like I may slip. 

In your name,

Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Going to a good ole favorite

There are some days that everything seems to go right and then some days where everything seems to go in the opposite direction of that. I find on these no so great days to regroup with some tried and true good ole favorites - favorite music, favorite movie, favorite books, etc. I know all the lyrics to those favorite songs and can belt them out. I can quote all the best lines from the movie and laugh all the more with every time I watch. I can find the pages that the best parts of my favorite book and paint the scene vividly in my mind. Though it doesn't usually make the day all of the sudden better, it for sure boosts my mood and helps re-frame my focus. These favorite things can also be a bit of a warm, comforting and gentle hug for the soul when things feel chaotic. I know how these favorite things will go...as I have listened, watched, and read them hundreds of times before. 

There are times we can get in a funk with our prayer lives. Maybe God does not seem as close as He once did or entering prayer has been difficult for one reason or another. I think when this happens, we are invited to go back to a good ole favorite prayer. Praying it may not make you immediately feel God or get out of your funk, but I think it can help re-frame our thoughts and get back to simplicity.  What is one of your good ole favorite prayers that helps you when you are feeling in a spiritual funk?

****

"I still believe in Your faithfulness

I still believe in Your truth

I still believe in Your holy word

Even when I don't see, I still believe" 

--Jeremy Camp, "I Still Believe" 

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Thrift store finds

About a decade ago now some friends introduced me to the world of thrift store shopping. Truthfully, I was a bit skeptical in that I usually like to know before going to the store what things I should be able to find. However, after a couple trips, I got hooked. There is something about going in and not knowing what exactly you will walk out with - even if you have a general idea of what you hope to find. The process of this type of shopping takes a bit longer than going to a regular store as you have to look deeply into everything. Now, not every trip did I find what I was hoping for, but 99% of the time I walked away with a new treasure. 

There are times when I enter into prayer with a list of things I hope to accomplish and questions I hope God will answer. But, the reality is prayer can be like entering a thrift store where you do not know exactly what you will find each time despite what you hope. Just like with this type of shopping, it takes time and looking around to find the treasures when we pray. I cannot expect to give God only 2 minutes and expect to walk away with dozens of gifts. We have to sift through the richness of Him and discover all the great things He has for each of us. More often I believe we find not what we had set out to find, but something better. A treasure that will carry with us for many years to come.

****

God, sometimes I enter into prayer with my own list of hopes and things to find. I will put aside this list and spend time simply looking into your love, words through scripture, and enjoying my time with you. In your name, Amen.

****

Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

The slow light

I am very fortunate that I do not have to do much driving. When I do have to drive, more often than not it is a short and quick trip on the same couple dozen streets. Recently, there has been a light on one of my routes that has seemed to change the timing. It used to be pretty sensitive to a car that just came up and would change pretty quickly. Now, regardless of the number of cars, it takes a good solid minute to change if I do not hit the light just right.

A minute does not seem like a long time, but when you have been used to something happening quickly it seems like an eternity. Truth be told I have found myself annoyed at times by the fact that I have to wait a whole minute for the light to change. But over the past couple weeks with the pause at the light I have decided to sit in that "painful" moment and be quiet and still.

This time of the year we are so busy with graduations, kids wrapping up their school year, and numerous other things that it can feel like we are only rushing from one thing to the next. It is easy to over-extend ourselves and feel exhausted in the process. It is easy to not be so sensitive to God's presence because of being so occupied that we forget to pause in His presence. So, though it started as a nuisance, that slow light has become a blessing to take a minute for God to just be and pause. For that, I am grateful.

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Thank you God for those slow lights that take a long time to change! I thank you for being present in those quiet and slow moments while everything else seems to be rushing around me. Help me to always take time to pause and return to you God. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Hitting the power button

Recently one of my teachers asked for my help with her computer. It was not doing anything and couldn't figure out how to even get it to turn on. We played with cords and finally decided let's just try the power button again...for the 3rd/4th time. As we did this I decided why not pray too..."Come Holy Spirit, Come Holy Spirit."

Sure enough it turned on and began working like there was never an issue. She asked me how did I fix it and I said, "I literally pushed the power button and prayed." We both chuckled to ourselves about praying over the computer to get it to work, but God truly intervened!

I think in our lives there are moments that we need to turn off/turn on again the power button on ourselves and call upon the Lord to come on in. We have so much happening in our lives we need to sometimes reset ourselves so we can operate at full capacity again. This may sound like, "Oh, I have to go on a weekend retreat and get away from everyone." Perhaps yes, maybe that is what is needed. But I think it can be as simple as going for a walk without your phone and praying. It can also be as simple as curling up in bed with a good spiritual book and then taking a long nap. Maybe it is as easy as saying in the moment, "Come Lord Jesus, Come!" Just this little reset can add fresh eyes and perspective to the day.

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Lord, 

Help me to turn off the outside distractions and things creating anxiety, frustration, or pain and retreat into your love, mercy, and comforting embrace. Allow me to unplug and reset so my focus be back on you, your word, and your love. 

In your name,

Amen. 

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Icebergs

In the world of special education teachers often talk about behavior of students. In one professional development I had years ago we talked about how behavior is simply the tip of the iceberg of what a student is trying to communicate. That every iceberg you see some of it, but there is so much more going on below the surface. That student who is "all of the sudden" agitated and arguing about a homework assignment may be feeling or enduring way more than what you are seeing. Perhaps that student did not sleep last night due to bad weather and are feeling overtired by the end of the day. Or maybe the boy/girl they like started dating someone else and are feeling upset about it. Just maybe, that student worked hours over the weekend and struggled to complete it because their parent was not around to help them because they were working. It makes any educator pause for a moment to really get down to what is happening.

As we walk among future saints in the making, we all are our own icebergs. You may see that person always coming late and then jetting out right after the final prayer at Mass but not know that they have an hourly job and use their lunch break to attend. Maybe that person seems cold or unwilling to talk because they are doing everything in their power to hold back the tears that will come if they open their mouth and are afraid of being judged or being annoying. Or maybe that person who always seems sad is actually painfully lonely and does not have many friends

There is a song "God Only Knows" by For King and Country that carries this sentiment. In listening to the song the following lyrics bring tears to my eyes:

God only knows what you've been through

God only knows what they say about you

God only knows the real you

But there's a kind of love that God only knows

God only knows what you've been through

God only knows what they say about you

God only knows the real you

There's a kind of love that God only knows

Truly God knows the weight you are carrying. God sees what is beneath the surface of your heart and what is going on even better than we know ourselves. With so much deep beneath the surface of our hearts and souls it is all the more important to pray for one another. Even if you do not know what is going on or "everything seems great" for someone we are called to pray and be loving children. 

So, the next time that person rubs you the wrong way, annoys you, seems to be struggling, or behaves in a way that moves you to sadness or anger - remember they are enduring more than meets the eye. They are a child of God who is loved and made in His image and likeness just like you. 

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Father, You see all of me - my heart, my mind, and my soul. Thank you for loving me and helping me with my suffering and challenges. May I humbly show compassion to every person I come across who has his/her own iceberg. I fully recognizing there is more happening below the surface of what I see with my eyes and desire to see him/her with your eyes to love them more. Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Being a child of God

Though it has been well over a year now I still remember the moment that my daughter was born and placed into my arms. I was immediately in love with her from that second and yet she had not done anything other than come into this world. Those first few days all she could do was sleep, eat, and poop/pee but our love for her knew no bounds.

As she has continued to grow and develop, I am amazed at what she can do. She is able to run, climb, say a few words, feed herself, and so much more. And yet, my love for her remains the same as it did from that first moment of her birth. Even if she was not doing these things, my love for her would be the same.

Our Heavenly Father has the same delighted sentiments and love for us. When we are young children it is easy to feel this type of love, but as we age we can begin to feel that His love is based off of what we do in this life. We become attached to an identity or things we do as a sign of how much God loves us. At the core of who we are is simply being a child of God - regardless if I'm a CEO, trash collector, student, or factory worker.

If I were to lose that identity of my job/career - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I were to get a promotion or award for my job - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I were to leave this world without making a difference - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I were to pass away and everyone knows my name - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I were poor - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I were the richest person in the world - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I my intellectual capacity was not as high as others - I would still be a loved Child of God.
If I were to be the smartest person in the world - I would still be a loved Child of God.

I am a child of God as well as you, and because of that basic fact - I am loved by God.

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Heavenly Father,

Sometimes I lose sight that I am a Child of God in your arms and you love me because you created me. When I become attached to what I do/what I have done as a sign of how much you love me, give me the wisdom to see past that and get to the core of who I am. Thank you Lord for deeply loving me simply because I exist!

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

The slight and long incline

Have you ever been walking and realized that you weren't walking on flat ground but a slight incline? These long and just barely even noticeable inclines I find are sometimes harder than the big and obvious hills. I'll admit there are some occasions when planning my runs or walks I will set a route to avoid particular inclines as by the long end it is easy to feel exhausted. There are times that I find myself preferring that big hill over this long and steady journey upward as I know with the hill what it will take to get to the top. Walking/running up an incline that goes on for a long time, you do not know when you reach your end or how much you will have to give or for how long. I will say though, practicing enough on an incline, when those hills do come - they don't seem to take the wind out of you as easily. 

There are seasons in our spiritual lives that God places a mountain or a hill for us to climb, but I think more often than not, we are on the slow and steady incline up. Most days are ordinary. Most days we have small issues or challenges. Most days we are performing our daily tasks that we have been called to do in our vocation. We do not have a clear ending or vision for the end point of what we are being called to do or in our daily tasks, but we are still called to walk and move forward. Each week there will be dishes to wash and laundry to fold. But, with every dish that is washed, piece of clothing folded, and loving interaction with family or friends we have together, a slight and steady opportunity to grow in holiness lays before our feet. 

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Father God, 

As I carry my cross each day let me not be discouraged in the slow and steady incline to grow closer to you. Allow me the grace to take each step and breath recognizing that you are with me in this journey. Lord I know that though this walk may be tiring, you are simply conditioning me to be better fit for when a hill or a mountain comes my way. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Turning on and off the light

Our sweet daughter gets to help around the house by turning on and off some lights. She absolutely loves how the light goes on when she moves it up and off when she flips the switch down. I can see the joy in her eyes when she does this for us. Now, being only a year and a half old, it takes a few moments for her to actually turn it off in the evening right before going to bed. (I think she knows what is coming and takes her time...lol.)  There are nights that I am feeling more impatient and wanting to get through her bedtime routine swiftly, but as much as my mommy patience can handle it - I still let her turn off the light. She needs to practice and do this even though it is such a basic thing to do and would take no time at all for me to just turn it off. She learns nothing if I always do this little task for her.

I sometimes think about how God must be thinking the same of me. Oh how easy it would be for Him to come in and "turn on/turn off" the light. Perhaps I'm taking too long to turn to Him, keep avoiding it, or can't even find the switch. But, as a loving Father, what would He teach me by doing it for me? I gain no new insights or learning by having God come in and turn on/turn off the light for me. There is something about being in the struggle - the resistance - that makes it all worth it when it is finally completed for both myself and God.

I know my husband and I delight when our daughter finally turns on or off a light. I humbly think God is pleased when we do the same in our lives with whatever situation, temptation, or challenge that we face with persistence towards the good. Let's keep moving towards Him in all that we do.

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Father God, 

There are times that I find myself in different circumstances or situations that you show your endless patience and mercy towards me. It would be easier for you to "just do it for me", but you are giving me a beautiful opportunity to grow and learn. I thank you for your love of me and every opportunity to grow in holiness. In your name, Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Getting Lost

Before I go anywhere new and unfamiliar I always take 10 - 15 minutes to study the directions and the map of where I am going. I also plug in my phone to take me exactly where I need to while driving. However, it has happened a time or two (okay, more times than I can remember) that I've gotten lost or fell off the path. Truthfully, it has been frustrating and a bit embarrassing. I looked at the map - I had someone telling me where to go - and yet, I got lost. It shouldn't have happened, but yet it did. I wait for my GPS to re-route and eventually I make it to my destination. 

In the spiritual life I think this happens to all of us too. We have God's word, Sacraments, and the Catechism giving us direction before we even go anywhere. On the journey, we have family, friends, teachers, priests, and others who have good counsel helping us/guiding us. And yet, there are times we fall into the same sinfulness or forget where we came from. Thankfully, God will always re-route us to where we need to be. We may be taken on a different path than what we would have expected, but God will always lead us to our final destination of heaven. 

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Thank you Father for helping me when I get lost on my journey! I thank you for the things and the people who guide me back to the path of holiness and a deeper relationship with you. Help me to be diligent in knowing the route and listen well to the directions I am given to follow. 

In your name,

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

"It's Jesus on the phone"

Recently my daughter and I were in our adoration chapel. I did not have her normal bag of goodies to keep her occupied so I could pray a few minutes so I did the next best thing and took out things from my purse. Like any other Catholic mom I have a half dozen prayer cards and booklets in my purse so I gave her the closest one. She ended up holding a Divine Mercy card was very pleased about this. At one point she decided to use that as her personal phone. It made me chuckle in that there she was putting Jesus literally up to her ear and babbling/chatting with Him. But then I paused.

I realized that though she was pretending to use the card as a phone, she was making a bigger point for me. Christ is always calling us, but there are times that my own weaknesses and sinfulness blocks the line to hear his voice being whispered in my ear. Or I simply neglect the adequate intentional action of bringing the "phone" to my ear through a rushed prayer or wandering mind prayer. What if we took an extra minute to be intentional with what we are saying in our prayer? What if we denied that initial inclination to fall into that weakness or sin and instead choose to lean into Christ? I wonder if we would be able to get a more clear perspective and truly hear His voice to learn more of who He is and what we are called to do.

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Lord, 
You are always calling me and drawing me closer to you. Help me to pick up the "phone" and listen to what you need me to hear. Thank you Lord for choosing me and calling me despite my failings, weaknesses, and sinfulness!
Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Songs Speaking to Me - Post 3

These are just a few songs from this Lent that have been part of my prayer. I hope that their lyrics bring joy, comfort, hope, and love to you as we finish out these last couple of weeks in this Lenten season.

Never Stopped Loving By Jeremy Camp (Christian)

Throne Room by Kim Walker-Smith (Christian)

(Surrounded) Fight My Battles by Upper Room (Christian)

Start Over by Flame featuring NF (Christian Rap)

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Thank you God for the gift of music and musicians who share their gifts with the world for your glory! Please bless all those who use their musical talents to spread the good news. Allow every person who listens to their music be touched and brought closer to you.

In your name, 

Amen. 

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Marks on the hands

One of my groups of students had been using play doh in our time together. When our time was up I looked down and saw my hands were covered in green. I went to wash my hands in the bathroom and as I'm standing at the sink I realized how many other teachers find themselves with marks on their hands, arms, legs, clothes, etc. There is so much behind the fist that is now black from writing on the board all day, the teacher wearing paint on their new blouse after a student with fine motor needs needed help completing, or the paper cuts from grading a week's work of assignments. As any good teacher will tell you, those tiny marks on his/her hands were all worth it when he/she sees the students growing and learning something new. There is so much love these good teachers hold in his/her heart for every child no matter what type of day is happening.

Christ sees us in the same light with His own marks on his hands. His suffering and crucifixion on the cross was more than worth it for every one of us. Each mark was not in vain but rather held our salvation so we could learn to love one another and do good in this world. Thank you Jesus for suffering and dying on the cross for me - a sinner!

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Jesus, 

Please let me not forget the depth of the marks on your hands. May I strive to do good and learn to love better each day in every person, situation, or circumstance you lead me to so I can bring others closer to God. Thank you Lord for the gift of Salvation you have given to me!

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

The 4 to 1 ratio

In one of my classes when preparing to be a teacher we talked about the 4 to 1 ratio. For those of you who are classroom teachers may already know what this is, but for those of you who are not, the 4 to 1 ratio is the number of positive statements versus corrective statements to give to students. This intervention is primarily used in schools that use PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Supports) but many fabulous teachers naturally do this. The fundamental idea is recognizing the positive things that are happening in the classroom  - still correcting - but taking the time for recognizing and reinforcing the appropriate behaviors all the more. This is huge and can be a game changer for some students. Especially for some of those tougher kids - the ones who are blatantly defiant, disruptive, or just do not jive well with your particular personality this can be so tough for teachers.

What if we approached God in a similar way with our tough situations? What if we presented the problem/intention/issue and then gave back to God 4 praises? I wonder how the Holy Spirit would move in us, in the problems, the intentions, and the issues. It may not make the situation go away or fix it, but practicing that thankfulness and praise may just make our own hearts at greater peace and security with God.

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My God,

I praise you for being so generous to me in all things! I praise you for giving me these opportunities to grow closer to you! I praise you for the love you have poured out on me - a poor sinner! You are a good and merciful Father! 

All in your most holy name,

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

March Madness

Oh March Madness...the time of the year that everyone gets super into random college basketball teams to create brackets with the hope of winning the recognition, prize, or money for the most accurate bracket. I have friends who study the teams and do all sorts of statistics and calculations on who should win every game. But, once the games go into play, it seems that everyone's bracket gets broken and the teams who should not have won did. There is whirlwind of heartache and joys all at the same time. By the time a few weeks roll by, it is all old news. We have moved on to the next thing presenting itself.

With God, we can all too often present our "perfect" bracket of how things are going to go or our plan of events. But, as He is God and we are not, more often the insignificant game in our eyes becomes the most moving moment of our life. And sometimes, our greatest hopes may fall short and not pan out. As disappointing and sometimes painful it can be, this is only a season. Perhaps in a few months looking back it will not seem important or will not feel as big of a deal. Our time here on earth is just a small snippet as compared to our hopeful eternity in heaven with our Lord. Thank God for that!

So, whether your bracket of life feels absolutely busted or maybe things are shaping up well, just remember our God has a much bigger picture in store for us beyond this season. Let us enjoy each game as it comes and stay in the present moment to watch it unfold.

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Father,

I know I can map out my plans and become disheartened if things do not work out how I hoped. In this season before me, help me to see your hand in all moments and things of my life. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Learning to float

When learning to love the water one of the first things I remembered being taught was floating on my back. In order to do so my body has to be totally relaxed and opened. If I clenched or made myself small it will be inevitable that I would start to sink. I also remembered that my chest needed to fill of air and I had to breath deeply to do so. For someone who was afraid of water this was no easy task to completely trust that I would not sink to the bottom by releasing my body. But, as any person who enjoys floating on their back will tell you, it is completely necessary. 

Our prayer lives are this way too - we have to release all of ourselves to God. Give him that uncomfortable situation, that desire, that hope, that frustration, that sorrow, that grieving, and that fear of it all. When we do that, we are capable of resting peacefully in Him. Now, I firmly believe that this is all possible by the graces of the Holy Spirit who breathes life into us (just like making sure to have air in your lungs when floating). We are able to overcome the deepest sorrows, deepest fears, and deepest challenges. 

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Jesus, I trust in you. Help me to relax and open myself to you so I do not sink. Allow me the necessary graces to rest completely in you. Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Looking both ways

Spring is finally peeking out and days are longer and the temps are warming up making it pleasant to go for walks again. I can't express in enough words how enthusiastic this makes me and my daughter to get outside again for walks. Thank you Jesus for this amazing gift!

When walking around the neighborhood it is inevitable to come to an intersection. It is critical to look both ways before crossing the street as sometimes cars are coming from one direction or another. If I only look to my left,  I completely miss any cars coming from the right and may get hit. And if I only quickly look and not really pause, I may also miss something. What if we approached our prayer lives when faced with joyful or even difficult circumstances in this same manner?

 I find it all to easy to look one way when in various circumstances with my own eyes. But, those times that I step out of my own view, pause, and really reflect on God's point of view I gain a whole new perspective. Most often I recognize even more so how perhaps God was protecting or even preparing me with particular circumstances. It is not always easy to do this. There are some things that are so painful to try to look both ways at, but with time and the Holy Spirit's guidance, an unexplained peace and love will come. 

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Lord, Help me to pause and look both ways in all good and challenging circumstances. I know that when I do, I am able to see the big picture of your beautiful masterpiece. Thank you Lord for the amazing and beautiful life you have given to me! Amen. 

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Running Intervals

Preparing for a big race many runners will have weekly interval training where they will run for a very brief time frame at a sprint like pace and then go back to an easier one. They will repeat these intervals multiple times for the duration of their run.  Intervals are not meant to be easy. They are meant to push and challenge us to be better and to work harder. However, this hard work is not in vain; intervals help gain an overall faster pace and endurance for long runs that come.

Our time in Lent is an interval where we can increase our endurance for the rest of the liturgical year. During Lent we increase our prayer, alms giving, and fasting to grow closer to Christ. It is meant to challenge us to become better and holier versions of ourselves. Everyone's Lent looks and feels a bit different depending upon how previous prayer, alms giving, and fasting have been in a person's life. Just like with running, if you have never run more than a block, you probably will not be doing intervals that would be running a mile at a sprint pace. You would easily give up and never try again. On the flip side, if you are a regular marathon runner doing a block interval training run would be too easy. Your boredom of doing something too easy would tell you that this is pointless and not worth your time.

You and God can have those conversations through prayer on what it is that would be the right challenge for you. Ask God what would push you to a greater endurance for the long run with Him. I do pray that you use this beautiful Lenten season to grow closer to Christ that will not only last till Easter, but truly sustain you as you continue the run the rest of your life. I pray that your Lenten resolutions are not too hard that you become discouraged but not too easy that you find yourself bored just after this first week.

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Father in Heaven,

Thank you for this interval of Lent to be challenged and grow closer to you! I ask that you help me discern and follow through during this season of Lent to pray, give alms, and fast in a way that will give me greater endurance rather than discouragement or boredom. I desire to run this life long race with you Lord, give me what I need to do this well!

Amen. 

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Taking your vitamins

When a woman is pregnant it is incredibly important that she has a multivitamin with DHA to support the well being of the baby. These nutrients are critical for the baby's growth and development while in the womb. On some occasions a doctor my prescribe additional vitamins like Calcium or iron if those are too low. All these vitamins are to help grow and keep healthy during the time of pregnancy and will not last forever. 

In this season of life you are in God has a specific multivitamin of prayer that He may be asking you to take to help with your growth and development. You may be really good at going to Mass every Sunday, but maybe He is asking you to go an additional day of the week. God may be asking you to pray a specific prayer before or after Mass like the Rosary. Or maybe God is calling you to spend some time every day in an adoration chapel or church to pray. Whatever God may be calling to do for a prayer multivitamin, know that it will help grow your soul and keep you healthy. 

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Father in Heaven, 

Thank you for my prayer multivitamin that you have prescribed for me to take to grow my soul more. Help me to take it well daily so my soul can remain healthy in you. And when I forget or feel fatigued from having to take it every day, give me the graces I need to keep going. In your name,

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Songs speaking to me - Post 2

There have been some amazing songs that have fallen into my lap these past couple of months. May these songs bring you hope/peace/comfort/the words to say when you don't know what to say.

Prophesy Your Promise by Bryan and Katie Torwalt (Christian)

Braver Still by JJ Heller (Christian)

Arms of Grace by Bryan and Katie Torwalt (Christian)

Nothing I Hold Onto by Will Reagan and the United Pursuit Band (Christian)

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Lord, Thank you for the gift of music that draws us closer to you and your great mercy and love. May you bless these musicians and all those who hear their songs. In your most precious and Holy name, Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

The Long Car Ride

For many Christmases David and I would drive to our families down in Texas instead of flying. The journey always started with some anticipation and excitement. We'd listen to our favorite music and have a lively conversation. There would be some beautiful scenery to enjoy and stop at some fun places for meals on the ride that was fun. But, as the car ride would go on, it would transition into "O.M.G. are we almost there???" Once we made it to Texas there was always a moment of gratitude for the safe travels and thanksgiving for finally getting out of the car.

This Lent may feel like a long car ride. We start off very enthusiastic and full of commitment to the journey with Christ and our prayer/fasting/alms giving we have chosen for Lent. There may be even some beautiful insights or graces that we are part of during this time. However, as Lent continues on, we may grow weary and think to ourselves, "O.M.G. are we at Easter yet???" But, I assure you before we know it, we will be at home (or in this case the empty tomb) and be able to rejoice and give praise. Remember the final destination with your journey this Lent.

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Jesus, come with me on this journey in Lent. When my enthusiasm for my Lenten promises begin to fade, renew in me a sense of purpose for this time. Help me to live out my Lenten promises with fervor and great love to add to the beauty of the scenery of this journey. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Broken Rosaries

When I am able to, I try to pray my Rosary before picking up my daughter after work. However, that is not always possible due to meetings or other things happening. So, when we get home I usually change her, give her a snack (get myself a snack), and start my Rosary shortly after that. Lately, I've been finding myself getting interrupted in the middle my prayers due to my child attempting to get into something she shouldn't or her needing something. (She is not even 2 just to give some context....)

Sometimes what is coming out of my mouth is, "Hail Mary, full of grace...no, no, no, we don't climb the bookcase...the Lord is with Thee." Or, "Glory be to the Father...put that back...and to the Son." I tell David that our daughter is going to learn a different version of the prayers after listening to me pray them. 😂

I do think though, regardless of being interrupted or not, sometimes our minds wander in the midst of prayer simply because of our humanness. There is not a prayer that is perfect or formed so eloquently every time. This can be incredibly discouraging. Why even bother praying if all I can give is broken Rosaries? My mind wanders to my to do list or other things when I pray, why bother?

Regardless of our interruptions or wandering minds, God calls us to be in communication with Him. Even our broken prayers, He wants them all. So, if you are feeling a bit like me with your broken Rosaries or maybe with a wandering mind of to do's or something else during prayer. Keep trying. Keep talking to God. I believe that God wants to hear 100 of my broken Rosaries versus none at all.

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God, Sometimes my prayers to you are broken or incomplete due to interruptions or other distractions. Help me to keep seeking you in these moments and I humbly ask that you complete the broken prayer I have given to you. Thank you God for always listening to my prayers no matter how incomplete or interrupted they seem. Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Getting off the ottoman

My daughter is officially able to climb safely up and down off of our ottoman as of this week. The first time she successfully got up on top she was beaming and so proud of herself. My initial new mom reaction was to pick her up and take her off, but I realized here was an opportunity to watch her try on her own with me close by how she would get down. Initially she was very insistent that I pick her up and take her off. I kept nudging her, "You can do it! You got up there all by yourself and you can get down too!" Within moments she realized she could get down all by herself; she was super proud and beaming with a bright smile. I was glad I was able to see her do it on her own safely and see her proud of her accomplishment - even if it seems like a small thing.

In our prayer lives we can sometimes feel like we are trying to figure out how to get down off the ottoman after we have climbed it. Maybe we have been praying an intention for what feels like an eternity and don't know the way. Perhaps we are asking God to literally pick us up and plant us where we want to be or that person or that situation. However, God does not work like that. Instead, He will give the nudges and promptings we need to be successful; in His own time, He provides the tools and insights we need when we truly need it. Keep praying and asking...in time answers and clarity will come.

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Father in Heaven,

There are some situations I come to you where I want you to come pick me up and place me in a particular situation or out of a situation. I humbly ask that you give me the right promptings and insights to navigate these situations well. God, I trust you will not let me fall, but allow me the graces to set my feet firmly back on the ground and come out a better, stronger, and holier version of myself. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Being Sick

It seems like right now many folks are sick with the flu or other sicknesses. (Please know I am praying for you!) There are times when we are sick and push on through to make it for the day and then crash at home. Then, there are those times that we cannot make it through the day and need to visit the doctor for treatment. It can be humbling to go to someone else to seek help and treatment and recognize that there is something more that needs to be taken care of quickly. With proper care and treatment, we get well and back to good health.

In the spiritual life, our sins make our souls sick. Sure, some sins can make a smaller strain in our relationship with God and we "get by for the day," but over time those little ailments may grow into something bigger and we crash. And then there are those times we are majorly ill in the spiritual life and we know it. In those moments and in the small moments we need to seek the ultimate healer, God, through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In the confessional the priest shares God's merciful love and healing. He will also give a treatment of penance for you to do to help get you well.

I recognize that going to confession can be uncomfortable and not the top of fun things to do on a weekend. I don't enjoy saying all the things I have done to turn against God to my priest, but I know once I do and receive God's mercy and forgiveness I can get my soul well again. I once heard going to confession is like throwing up. You feel absolutely awful while it is happening and see it all come out; however, once you are done your body feels better. So, if it has been quite some time since your last confession or even if it was not that long ago, I encourage you to seek out the Sacrament to get well soon.

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Father in Heaven,

When we are sick give us great humility to meet you in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Please give us the graces we need to make a good confession to become well again. And please bless my priest who hears my confession that he may be an instrument of your loving mercy and forgiveness. 

In your name,

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth

Snowed In

Unsurprisingly, it is still winter here in the Midwest. Cold temperatures and snow seem to be an ongoing theme. Don't get me wrong, seeing the snow fall is gorgeous! The bitter cold temperatures and hazardous road conditions are the things I do not enjoy.

And because of how cold or the road conditions, this is the time of the year that sometimes people literally cannot go anywhere and are snowed in. Initially there is this sense of enchantment about being at home. Taking time preparing a great breakfast, staying in PJ's all day, catching up on some chores, getting extra time to pray, and making a dent in reading the pile of books on your night stand. I find it always starts off delightful and warm. But, then, I start to notice some areas of my house that maybe need a deeper clean and wonder why I haven't taken care of it before. Or, I find myself restless at the fact that I cannot go anywhere and become acutely aware of my isolation from the outside world.

Sometimes the spiritual life in prayer can feel like we are snowed in. It can start off delightful - many consolations and great beauty that is unfolded before our eyes by spending some time internally with God. But, then, spending some deep internal time in prayer we can become acutely aware of our own flaws, weaknesses, and sins. We may even see that area that needs a deep clean through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. There may be times that we become restless on a particular petition and feel isolated in that our answer is "no" or "not yet." Do not despair, but continue to pray, and in some instances I've been directed (by priests and other spiritual directors) to increase my prayer. Know that you are being prayed for.

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Lord,

Thank you God for these times that I am snowed in with you and the graces that softly fall from above! When I am snowed in with you, help me to uncover those areas that may need a deeper clean or some more work. When I'm feeling isolated from the outside world allow me the graces to fall closer into you and your warm embrace. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Crawling into God's lap

Daily my daughter will find me sitting on the floor and step into my lap with a book to read to her. Lately, it has been really only one of three books she is super into right now. You would think with a whole bookshelf and crate of books she would want to mix it up every so often, but no. She really likes these 3 books and wants me to read them over and over to her. I love these moments holding her in my lap especially since she is wanting to constantly move and play.

Sometimes I imagine myself crawling into God's lap asking Him to read my same intentions over and over again. Now, don't get me wrong, there are some big and important intentions that we should continue to bring to God, but really many of them are trivial things that may not even matter this time next month or even in an hour. Despite this, God is always delighted to hear my prayers - truly no matter how many times I ask for something He responds with a loving embrace.

If you are feeling you are asking for the same intention over and over again, take comfort in knowing that simply being close in God's lap and talking to Him is delightful to Him. He will respond with love each time to you while holding you close to His heart. So, keep going to Him, keep crawling into His lap and speak to Him. He is always waiting and there.

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Thank you God for all the times you have listened and taken to heart my same few intentions I crawl into your lap with. I know that some of them will seem trivial in time, but all the same you listen and always answer my prayer while holding me close. Thank you for always holding me close to you in these moments of prayer. 

In your name,

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

Just some thoughts on what to give up for Lent

Lent is just around the corner, but I personally already feel like I'm in a Lent of sorts. I am truly nobody important or with anything that unique to share, but I know sometimes it is hard to think of what you are going to do/give up for Lent. Here are just a handful ideas to get you thinking and praying about. By no means is this list exhaustive. Praying for you this Lent!

1. Fast from social media and instead use that time to pray or call people to see how they are doing
2. Go to a Daily Mass before work - give up that extra sleep to be with the Lord
3. Give up an attachment or vice that keeps you from God
4. Give up a comfort of home like sleeping in a bed or taking a long warm shower
5. Begin a daily examen before going to bed  (https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen)
6. Fast from TV, music, or podcasts
7. Take an hour each day to be still in God's presence and listen to Him - no technology, no talking, just silence
8. Read a chapter from the Gospels each day
9. Take this time to frequent the Sacraments - especially Reconciliation
10. Pray a Rosary on your way to or from work instead of listening to the radio
11. Volunteer your time
12. Write a letter of prayer to someone each day who may need it
13. Do acts of charity without anyone seeing/knowing who did it
14. Give up snacking in between meals or even fast weekly (we are asked to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday)


Simply a little pencil in God's hand,
Elizabeth

The Turn Around Skit

With a toddler I feel that a quarter of what my husband and I say is "Turn around." This is said a dozen times a day as she is trying to stay to play in the bathroom or go to something she shouldn't get into. As often as we say this, my husband and I joke about the song "Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Bonnie Tyler. Below are the lyrics that we always think of and tend to sing after telling our daughter to "Turn around.":

Turn around, every now and then I get a little bit lonely
And you're never coming 'round
Turn around, every now and then I get a little bit tired
Of listening to the sound of my tears
Turn around, every now and then I get a little bit nervous
That the best of all the years have gone by
Turn around, every now and then I get a little bit terrified
And then I see the look in your eyes
Turn around bright eyes, every now and then I fall apart
Turn around bright eyes, every now and then I fall apart

Truly the only reason why we are so familiar with this 80's classic is from all the retreats in high school we helped with or attended. If you attended any retreat anywhere in America in the 90's and early 00's it was almost guaranteed that sometime during your weekend this song accompanied with a skit would happen. Usually on Saturday night of a 3 day retreat right before the Sacrament of Reconciliation with Mass following after.

The essence of the skit (seriously, anywhere you see it) a girl has all these temptations surrounding her. Other people wear names of sins/temptations and dance with her and hand over their sin/temptation to her and tear away a bit of a paper heart she is wearing. She see's Jesus in the distance and tries to get to him but the sins/temptations literally surround her, but then she calls out to Jesus to save her and the sins/temptations fall to the side. Jesus takes off the sins and gives her a new clean heart - His heart and then they hug or dance to the end of the song. (Go to youtube and type in "Turn around Skit" and you will find at least a dozen examples if you are better with visuals.)

Though our daughter isn't always trying to get into something that will lead her to sinfulness, we want her to be safe and not be tempted by things that could be unsafe. God does the same with us - gently tapping us on the shoulder and telling us "Turn around." to look back at His Son and away from the temptation. And just with our daughter, it may take some literal scooping up, being held, and then carried to a better place closer to Him and His heart. We only have to say His name and let Him into our weakness, brokenness, and area of need.

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God, 

When I begin to fall into temptation that will lead me to sin, please turn me around to face you again. I ask that you scoop me into your arms and embrace me to keep me from those things that are not good for me or would make me unsafe. 

Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth