During the time of Jesus, may people on the day after His death, I am sure were filled with many emotions. Some, I am sure, were glad to be rid of the conflict of the man. Many more, I imagine were feeling remorse for their actions, feelings, or perhaps thinking if they could have done more. They, like Jesus, were all part of the plan. Every person played a role in teaching us about our "new life". Jesus died a terrible, painful death, so we may have Life. So, it is with humble mind, I ask myself this morning, could I be doing more? could I be more encouraging? more supportive? more forgiving? less critical and more helpful? gentle? kind? strong? This my friends, is Life...for me.
As I sat on my deck, in prayer, yesterday morning, I was blessed by a visitor. The most beautiful ruby throated hummingbird...the first of the season. I loudly thanked God for His presence, as hummingbirds and I go way back in symbolism. He came back again this morning and as I smiled and thanked the Lord, I knew it was time to prepare the feeders. See, it is my job, to feed what I love. Think I will support, encourage, forgive, be gentle, ...I think you get the idea! Let each and every person in your life know how valued they are. We are not promised tomorrow.
I love you and hold you all in prayer
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola FL
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The True Meaning of Love
Well, I asked for patience and it was given. I wrote an entry and it is off in cyberspace somewhere!
Holy Thursday and Good Friday are two of the most reflective days for me. How can anyone love me so much? I was told many years ago, by a spiritual mentor, if I had been the only person in the world, Jesus would have died on the cross for me. Those words, uttered to me back in the early 80's, changed my life.
I would like to encourage everyone to do some reflective reading during this Holy Week. Psalm 22 as well as the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Jesus suffered beyond belief, for each and every one us. That is the true meaning of love...and it continues...come Sunday.
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola FL
Holy Thursday and Good Friday are two of the most reflective days for me. How can anyone love me so much? I was told many years ago, by a spiritual mentor, if I had been the only person in the world, Jesus would have died on the cross for me. Those words, uttered to me back in the early 80's, changed my life.
I would like to encourage everyone to do some reflective reading during this Holy Week. Psalm 22 as well as the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Jesus suffered beyond belief, for each and every one us. That is the true meaning of love...and it continues...come Sunday.
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola FL
Friday, March 14, 2008
Holy Spirit Detour!
As I prepare to write in this blog, I spend many days in prayer. I have come to the decision that it reminds me of the 35 years that I have prepared lesson plans. I have never been one to "stay in the plan" just because the topic has been given. As I have said before, I must listen and the Holy Spirit sends me!
There are three things that have been placed in my heart to write about. I share them, you are free as always, to do what whatever is placed within you.
Personally, I tire of hearing people speak
TO the negative of this world. Do you realize if we listen to the majority of "experts", we as a nation, will be suffering financially for the next 8-10 years. Many times, I find "experts" like opinions. I believe we can make a difference in our thinking. I have chosen to "speak to" prosperity, to take authority over the negative words and in faith, believe that this country will turn around much quicker than expected. I believe the promise written, we have not because we ask not. I, in faith, am asking. I am in Thanksgiving, for it is done.
Also, all appreciate it when our people are blessed. Here is a challenge...again, if it is in your heart, bless you! I would like to see the food pantry overflowing by Frienship Sunday. Perhaps ask someone whom you have invited, to bring a few cans of food. Lastly, Holy Cross MCC helps more people than we will ever know. I, again in faith, call for a growth in the Benevolent Fund. For me, this will not be, in place of my tithe, but in addition to. Even a dollar here or there can make a difference. Please don't forget our pet ministry too. Talk about loyality. But that, is another topic.
All of you, as promised, are prayed for each and every day. Please keep me in prayer.
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola, FL
There are three things that have been placed in my heart to write about. I share them, you are free as always, to do what whatever is placed within you.
Personally, I tire of hearing people speak
TO the negative of this world. Do you realize if we listen to the majority of "experts", we as a nation, will be suffering financially for the next 8-10 years. Many times, I find "experts" like opinions. I believe we can make a difference in our thinking. I have chosen to "speak to" prosperity, to take authority over the negative words and in faith, believe that this country will turn around much quicker than expected. I believe the promise written, we have not because we ask not. I, in faith, am asking. I am in Thanksgiving, for it is done.
Also, all appreciate it when our people are blessed. Here is a challenge...again, if it is in your heart, bless you! I would like to see the food pantry overflowing by Frienship Sunday. Perhaps ask someone whom you have invited, to bring a few cans of food. Lastly, Holy Cross MCC helps more people than we will ever know. I, again in faith, call for a growth in the Benevolent Fund. For me, this will not be, in place of my tithe, but in addition to. Even a dollar here or there can make a difference. Please don't forget our pet ministry too. Talk about loyality. But that, is another topic.
All of you, as promised, are prayed for each and every day. Please keep me in prayer.
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola, FL
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Lenten Series 2
March 5, 2008
Patience is indeed a virtue. Remember years ago when the common phrase was, "Please be patient. God isn't finished with me yet"? I look back over my years and my head shakes at the impatience I experienced. I would like to think that years have taught me better and perhaps they have. I have also come to the realization, if I am a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit, then patience needs to be a large part of my character. For me, when I am impatient, I also have the tendency to not be in my kindest state.
What about Jesus during His time on the earth? He always showed love, patience and kindness. Even leading up to His approaching death, He spoke with kindness and love. He continued to teach, I am sure with great fervor. He knew His time was running out with His followers, and He wanted to make sure they knew His lessons, His purpose.
During these final weeks of Lent, I pray that we place ourselves in situations that will cause us to be patient. If there is a long line in the store, traffic to be dealt with, a deadline we must meet, friends and family having more needs than usual, appointments to schedule, a house to clean, food to cook, a car that needs repair; let us remember: that is nothing compared to Jesus going to the cross, because He loves us. He endured without complaint.
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for sending your Son so that I may have life. May I, every day, continue to be grateful for your love. When I am impatient, please stop me and remind me, that I am your child and that love is patient. In Jesus' name. Amen
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola, FL
Patience is indeed a virtue. Remember years ago when the common phrase was, "Please be patient. God isn't finished with me yet"? I look back over my years and my head shakes at the impatience I experienced. I would like to think that years have taught me better and perhaps they have. I have also come to the realization, if I am a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit, then patience needs to be a large part of my character. For me, when I am impatient, I also have the tendency to not be in my kindest state.
What about Jesus during His time on the earth? He always showed love, patience and kindness. Even leading up to His approaching death, He spoke with kindness and love. He continued to teach, I am sure with great fervor. He knew His time was running out with His followers, and He wanted to make sure they knew His lessons, His purpose.
During these final weeks of Lent, I pray that we place ourselves in situations that will cause us to be patient. If there is a long line in the store, traffic to be dealt with, a deadline we must meet, friends and family having more needs than usual, appointments to schedule, a house to clean, food to cook, a car that needs repair; let us remember: that is nothing compared to Jesus going to the cross, because He loves us. He endured without complaint.
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for sending your Son so that I may have life. May I, every day, continue to be grateful for your love. When I am impatient, please stop me and remind me, that I am your child and that love is patient. In Jesus' name. Amen
Pat Howes Prayer Minister Holy Cross MCC Pensacola, FL
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