W.I.S.E. Bible Study

 In the book of Exodus 16, we find the Israelites in the desert and hungry. God provides them with manna. The people are to gather only the amount to be used for the day, except on Saturday, when they have to gather for Sunday also. The instructions were a test to see if the people would follow directions. These verses point to what Jesus will say later on in the desert when being tempted by Satan: “Man can not live on bread alone but must by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” The point of these Exodus verses is to show trust in God’s provision; guard against self-reliance; set aside time for rest and receiving of blessings from God. Also, remember that manna is temporary, but our true bread, which is forever, comes from heaven. Eucharist. Why do I talk about Exodus when I was talking about the Our Father? Today’s verse is “Give us this day our daily bread.” When we pray this, Jesus takes us back to the Old Testament, threading through to his time. He reminds us to be th...

  Today I’d like to talk about two lines from the Our Father prayer: thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. These lines are a petition and a statement. A petition for God’s kingdom here on earth, which will only happen if we allow God’s work, “thy will be done,” through us. The most humbling thing for me is God’s love for me and God’s confidence in me to be part of his co-creator here on earth. God is always greater than me, but God's work through me will allow God’s kingdom here on earth to shine through. Great responsibility. Something we need to use our ability to respond by asking for God’s will for us. Sometimes, I sit on my patio looking at the flowers, kids' toys strewn all over, and feel like this is a slice of heaven. Looking at the face of a loved one, remembering those who have gone before me, reminds me of “as in heaven.” Spend some time thinking about your respond-ability towards God and God’s will for you to help create heaven on earth for...

 Today’s Gospel reading is Matthew 6:7-15. This reading is where Jesus gives us the prayer: The Our Father. If you need to know where to begin your prayer life, start here. Jesus mentions that God doesn’t want us to babble on, so he gives us the Our Father, which is a very succinct prayer. Don’t know where to begin in prayer? Start with the Our Father. A friend needs prayer? Say the Our Father. This prayer is universal, and because Jesus gave it to us, it is one we know will be listened to. So, what are we saying when we pray this prayer? We start with specifically who we are praying to: Our Father; that is right, a universal father for all. Our links us together forever. Where is this God we pray to: “who art in heaven”. God is above us in the sense that we acknowledge God is where all stems from… Next, we give praise and reverence, knowing it is God’s name that is “hallowed,” that is sacred. To call upon God’s name is to acknowledge God’s all-powerfulness and worthiness of our su...

I checked my garden area yesterday before the hail, and it amazes me how quickly plants grow. I look at my grandson’s popcorn plants and hope he grows at least enough popcorn for one batch. Life is good. Today looks like a rainy day. Boy, do I need a rainy day! A rainy day means baking today.  Life is good. Today I can pray from the heart, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.” Psalm 16:9. Currently, I am in the new-to-us RV working on research and writing, watching the rain clouds creeping towards us. Faith isn’t something we do, but something that is us. I’ll watch Mass this morning, say my prayers, then do my “work” as I feel called to accomplish. If your faith is who you are, what do you do to live it out loud? Start your morning with His word; listen to Christian music; gather with others and pray? Live your faith boldly today on the path… 

There are signs that read: Family, Friends and Faith. Signs are good reminders of what is important. In the messiness of life it is important to remember Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” There are family and friends that I don’t see everyday, but are in my heart and mind. Sometimes just thinking of the good memories gives a smile to my day. I have friends that make beautiful music. Music sticks in your soul. I have family with the same passion of fishing I have. There is so much to be said about each friend and family member, but my point today is that in faith we must be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving. I have family in Minnesota who are Packer fans, yeah, I forgive them…Ha Ha. Seriously, today reach out and remind your friends and family that they are important to you or say a prayer for them on the path….

  In my Marion grotto, the honeysuckle and wisteria are in full bloom. The roses are fragrant and make you want to say: “O L ORD , our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the earth!” Psalm 8:10. Recognizing the hand of the Lord, or a kiss from heaven in our day, gives lift to our day. Today is a day of cleaning, organizing, and hopefully enjoying some downtime. However, I know it is important to let the Holy Spirit guide me.   Today, find ways to shout the Psalm. Lord, guide, bless, and walk with me today and always on the path…