Stations of the Cross

I have realized that I have not posted anything about my journey through the RCIA program with my wonderful daughter-in-law Angela. RCIA (the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is a process that a person who wants to join the Catholic Church goes through. Each person seeking to join the Church has a sponsor. Angela will be baptized and become a member of the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Service. I am so very excited about this and have so enjoyed going through this process with her. I have learned a lot of things that I didn't know and have been challenged to think about a lot of things. (In a previous post I showed a picture of Angela and I with Bishop Doherty at the Rite of Initiation at St. Mary's.)

Last night at our meeting, we went over to the church and went through and prayed the Stations of the Cross. It is a beautiful experience and I was blessed even more by being asked to do the readings for each station. The stations follow Jesus's journey to the cross. The farther you get through the stations the more emotional it becomes. It allows you to place yourself there. I remember when I attended a Cursillo weekend we did Mary's Way of the Cross. This is done from Mary's perspective as the mother of Jesus. That was such a powerful experience for me because I put myself in the place of Mary and could not even imagine how she must have felt seeing her son being tortured.

The 14 stations are:

First Station - Jesus is condemned to Death

Second Station - Jesus is made to bear His Cross

Third Station - Jesus falls the first time under His Cross

Fourth Station - Jesus meets His Mother

Fifth Station - Simon the Cyrene helps Jesus carry His Cross

Sixth Station - Veronica wipes the face of Jesus

Seventh Station - Jesus falls the second time

Eighth Station - Jesus speaks to the daughters of Jerusalem

Ninth Station - Jesus falls the third time

Tenth Station - Jesus is stripped of His garments

Eleventh Station - Jesus is nailed to the Cross

Twelfth Station - Jesus dies on the Cross

Thirteenth Station - Jesus is taken down from the Cross

Fourteenth Station - Jesus is buried in the sepulchre

40 Days for Life - Day 23

It is an absolutely beautiful day here in Lafayette today! I'm so excited that I won't freeze tonight at the vigil. I'll be able to actually hold my rosary and move through the decades!

I love the reflection for today. Especially the part talking about God's attribute of omnipotence:

"Yet, when it came to express this last attribute, what example did the psalmist use - God's creation of mountains, seas, or far-flung galaxies? No, he used none of these. To express the wonder of God's unparalleled creative power the writer mentions the fashioning of the human in the womb."

I ran across this painting that I thought was beautiful and sad at the same time. The name of the painting is Earth's Trash - Heaven's Treasure and is based on Psalm 27:10 - "For my father and my mother have left me: but the Lord hath taken me up."

In the alley of this abortion facility, God's angels retrieve precious living souls. They are joined by many other angels from all the alleys of the world. Each angel is holding a precious baby, wrapped in yellow blankets. On earth the unborn babies were wrapped in plastic bags, but now they are wrapped in God's glory. On earth they were trash, but to Heaven, they are treasure.

Keep on praying for an end to abortion!!!!!!

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Intention: For the medical community, that the truth they know about the human body may become awe and wonder at the God who made it.

Scripture: Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. --Psalm 139:16

Reflection: Human beings -- God's tapestries. Psalm 139 is a psalm that reveals the enormity and otherness of God. His divine attributes are on display: omniscience (2-4), omnipresence (7-12), loving-kindness (17-18), justice (19-20), righteousness (23-24), and omnipotence. Yet, when it came to express this last attribute, what example did the psalmist use - God's creation of mountains, seas, or far-flung galaxies? No, he used none of these. To express the wonder of God's unparalleled creative power the writer mentions the fashioning of the human in the womb (14-16). The Hebrew word used to express God's forming of us in the womb, raqam, is the same term for needlework or embroidery. In other words, we are a tapestry that displays God's artistic mastery. And, like the artist who knows his creation down to the last detail, God intimately knows us. This reality provokes the writer to awe and wonder. He proclaims, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made." What is true for this psalmist is true for each human being. Each is fashioned by God and known by him and we can proclaim on behalf of each, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

Prayer: Gracious God, help us to appreciate the wonder and beauty of Your creation. Help us proclaim on behalf of every one of our fellow human beings, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made." May the knowledge that we are intimately known by You shape our lives and actions. Amen.

A Very Inspirational Book

My good friend Von gave me a book that I'm currently reading titled "Scarred" by Dave Roever. Eight months into his tour of duty in Vietnam, Dave was burned beyond recognition when a phosphorous grenade he was poised to throw exploded in his hand. The ordeal left him hospitalized for fourteen months, where he underwent numerous major surgeries. His survival and life are miraculous. One of his quotes is, "Every time I look in a mirror, put on my hair, stick on my ear, and start my day ... Forgetting is not possible. Forgiving is." Last night as I was reading it I read some words that were really very powerful. I read them a couple of times and decided that I wanted to share them with you.

"We must remember that time exists in a trinity: there's the past, present and future. All sides of this three dimensional description are of equal importance. We learn from our past and use it in our present to build a better future. At least that's the way it ought to be. It's when we make choices on the basis of pleasure, not discipline and experience, that we destroy the strength of the time triangle. When we fail to utilize the past, we have only the present and the future. Therefore we repeat the same mistakes and constantly reinvent the wheel. While it is true that we cannot change the past, we can only change the future, it doesn't justify ignoring the past. We can't change it, but we certainly had better learn from it because it can change us."

Dave Roever's faith in God was outstanding. In the book, he describes how his faith helped him overcome his physical and mental trauma and forgive the people of Vietnam. When all was lost, he kept fighting for what he believed in. After the war, he went back to Vietnam to teach God's word. The best part was he fought for his country even though no one made him.

There was also a "funny" part that I read last night. It reminds me of his humor through his whole ordeal. This was right after the accident and the helicopter had just come to pick him up. He had called out to the medic and

"The pilot, responding to him, lost control and for a moment, the tail spun around, the helicopter dropped, and I felt weightlessness in an intense way. I realized we were crashing and I thought, Dear, God, we're going to crash and I'll be the only survivor! I've often described this day as "one of those days when nothing goes right."

40 Days for Life - Day 22

Well, I know that I missed posting days 18-21. If you read the previous post it will give you some idea why!!!!!! Anyway, it is already day 22. Hard to believe. And as far as we know there have been

195 babies saved!!!!!!!!!!!!

Prayers are working. Keep praying! I will be there again tomorrow night. Have not heard the weather forecast, but I am prepared to be very warm one way or another. Here's a wonderful story of twin babies who were born because their mother chose life!

Twin brothers Taylor and Tyler wouldn't be here without the help of guardian angels in heaven and on earth. "Now, I can't believe that it ever crossed my mind," Daniella said of the day she came to Little Rock to get an abortion. "I have two beautiful children. I told my mom, 'I have two babies,' and she said, 'That's right, you do.' I had to kiss them and hold them very tight." Daniella (whose last name is withheld to protect her privacy) became a mother Dec. 28, but her journey began long before that date. This summer, she had an appointment at Little Rock Family Planning Services to get an abortion but decided against it after sidewalk helper Maria Maldonado, who regularly prays outside the abortion clinic in west Little Rock, urged her to request to see her ultrasound. Maldonado, a member of Christ the King Church in Little Rock, and other prayer warriors prayed for Daniella while she was inside the clinic and continued to help her throughout her pregnancy. They threw her a baby shower in November and were at the hospital when the babies were born. Daniella's story was featured in the Dec. 4 issue of Arkansas Catholic and was instantly shared by e-mail and Facebook across the country. "I got to meet a lot of people. I think I met every one of the prayer warriors," Daniella said during a phone interview with Arkansas Catholic. "The labor and delivery area was full of people." Taylor and Tyler weren't born on Christmas Day when they were due. The two were born in the early morning Dec. 28 at St. Vincent Infirmary Medical Center in Little Rock. Dec. 28 is not without significance -- it is the feast of the Holy Innocents, which commemorates the massacre of all Jewish boys 2 years old and younger in Bethlehem and surrounding areas, ordered by King Herod. Joseph fled to Egypt with Mary and the baby Jesus, which spared him. On Dec. 28 the Church and pro-life community often remember children who have died because of abortion or children who have died because of miscarriage, stillbirth or infant death. "They're gaining weight good and eating and crying a lot," Daniella said. "My mom has them spoiled rotten already." Daniella, 19, is adamant about helping other women. "I have a story to tell and if telling it can result in stopping someone else from making that choice just because they are scared, I have to tell it," she said. She's already counseled two friends who were considering abortion. Both chose to have their babies. "It's not worth it and they see that," she said. Daniella, who lives in Lake Village, and several family members plan to train to be sidewalk helpers and prayer warriors like Maldonado and the other volunteers. "My family doesn't believe in (abortion), but I was scared and I thought of it. God blessed me to be able to say 'OK, there is help. I can do this.' He gave me what I always wanted and I didn't even realize it at first." She was being selfish too, she said. It's something she thinks of often. "I ask myself a million questions when I think about it. If I hadn't talked to Miss Maria that day, I wonder sometimes -- would I have done it? Would I have gone in the room?" she said. "I think about these things a lot, but what I can't imagine is a world without my boys." She thanks God for the courage to walk out of the clinic after seeing her twin boys on the ultrasound. "God blessed me. He works in funny ways, but I can see his blessings. I thank God that Miss Maria and the prayer warriors were there to tell me that I had other options," she said. The baby's father will meet his boys for the first time this weekend. He is currently in Marine boot camp. "I know he's so excited to see them, be with them and care for them. He can't wait. He's always asking how they boys are doing," she said. "He wishes he was closer to us." Her sister asked if she would tell the twins their story one day. Daniella said she will because it might help them. "They might come into a situation like that, and I want them to make the right choices in life. I wish I could do something to stop it," she said. "You don't have to do it. It doesn't make things better; it makes them worse." The best gift this year was her twin boys, Daniella said. "In the middle of the night," she said softly, "I just get up and go look at them. I tell them 'I can't believe you are here.'"

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Intention: Pray for fathers who participated in the decision to abort their child, and for those who did not have a voice, that they would find freedom and healing in Christ.

Scripture: If indeed you have heard Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. -- Ephesians 4: 21-23

Reflection: According to the Guttmacher Institute, one-third of American women will have had an abortion by age 45. Seldom reported however is the fact that an equally significant number of men have played a role in terminating a pregnancy. Some have participated through persuasion, or by providing the financial means for the abortion. Still others were against an abortion, but had no sway in the decision to terminate their child. Only in recent years have we realized that men suffer from their loss, as more and more seek healing. Warren Williams, founder of Fathers and Brothers Ministries says he believes men are coming forward for help because God instilled in men a desire to be a protector of their lineage, a provider for their families, to be a husband and father. Men are suffering and grieving the loss of their children, and though their grief may be expressed differently than that of a woman, it is grief nonetheless and they too need tender care and biblical counseling to experience forgiveness and healing. Intervention at the appropriate time in the decision-making process may spare both the young man and woman from the lifelong pain and trauma of abortion. Biblical counseling for post-abortive men and women is essential for them to heal and begin their life anew in Christ.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, We pray for young men who participated in the termination of their child and are broken as You are over their loss. Forgive their sin, Lord, and bring opportunity for healing and renewal of their minds in Christ Jesus. For those suffering from an abortion they did not choose, restore their joy as they learn to forgive others and trust You with their future. In the name of Christ, who heals the brokenhearted, amen.

So I am REALLY behind on my blog. Life has been so busy (a.k.a. CRAZY). I will get caught up.

So, I ask . . . . .

Can your life be busy and simple?

Can busyness be sustained over a long period? Or is it something that you can only do in short bursts?

How do you define the difference between “busy” and “too busy”?

How do you keep life from getting too busy?

I believe there can be a perfect balance. I seek that and I WILL find it.

I look forward to reading your answers! Comment below.

HOWEVER, at this exact point in time, this is more how I feel . . . .

40 Days for Life - Day 17

I had my prayer vigil outside Planned Parenthood last night. It was COLD! 36 degrees to be exact and the wind was whipping. BRRRRRRRR! Anyway, the past two times I've been there, there has been quite a lot of traffic going in and coming out of their office. But last night there was hardly anything. I attribute it to our 3 weeks of constant prayer. God is working. We need to
keep trusting that he will continue to work with us. We did get a nasty remark from someone driving by but you have to let that roll off your shoulders and pray for them. Can't take is personally.


Here's the story of Micheala who had the chance to be born . . .


Micheala's mother was suicidal and threatening to get an abortion due to tremendous pressures from her family and the baby's birth father. She was put in touch with a prayer group in her area who supported her throughout the pregnancy. The Confraternity of Penitents also prayed for this child. Three times the baby threatened to miscarry and once Michaela's mother attempted suicide. But Michaela was born and her mom calls her "my angel."

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Intention:

Pray that we choose to trust God to bring an end to abortion soon, no matter how impossible that may seem to others.

Scripture:

The hand of the Lord was upon me, and He brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" I said, "O Sovereign Lord, you alone know."

-- Ezekiel 37:1-3

Reflection:

You and I are standing in a world today over a field of dry bones: those who have been killed by abortion, those who have been killed by so many other things attacking the dignity of human life. And God has placed us here; we find ourselves here in the midst of this incredible tragedy. Like Ezekiel, you and I are in a dilemma because God says to us: "Speak and proclaim the Word of Life. Keep doing it. Let nothing deter you."

People can say, "This is humanly foolish, humanly impossible. How can we transform the world from the path of death that it's on?" Yet we choose to do the "foolish" thing rather than the dangerous thing.

If you ever doubt that we can bring an end to this culture of death, this destruction of the family, this destruction of life by abortion, if you ever think for a moment that it's impossible, then ask yourself this: Can a man who has been scourged, crowned with thorns, nailed hands and feet to a cross, pierced with a lance, has died and been buried; can such a man ever live again?

Prayer:

Lord, I thank you for giving me the holy dilemma of having to choose between the foolish thing or the dangerous thing. Yet for me the solution is clear. Lord, I will obey you, even if it means aiming for a goal which, in the eyes of others, seems foolish. I will obey you, and will hope for the end of abortion soon, no matter how impossible that may seem to others. I dare not mistrust you; I dare not doubt your power; I dare not fail to follow your call. In you, who raise the dead, all hope comes alive. Amen.

40 Days for Life - Day 16

Today is my day to stand outside Planned Parenthood. Not sure, but it may be snowing!!!! Anyway, I am looking forward to seeing what God has planned! Let you know more about it in tomorrow's post!

Here's another prayer answered for a life saved:

Justin

Date of Birth: April 17th 1999
Baby's Weight: 6 lb, 12 oz

When I found out I was pregnant, I was 18. Justin's father was 18, as well, and we were both preparing to start our first day of college in less than 2 weeks. His father begged me to abort, as did all his friends and his parents. They told me it was unfair to ruin both of our lives as well as the babies. But I knew that i'd raise my precious little one with my parents help. They have been so supportive and helpful and Justin is the biggest joy of my life. I can't imagine my life without him. He is now a healthy, active, fun little 16 month old!

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Intention:
May the mystery of the Incarnation increase our zeal for defending life.

Scripture:
Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end."
-- Luke 1:30-33

Reflection:
"God has assumed Humanity, joining it with Divinity, and kindled in men's hearts new love of me." These words were written by a Roman poet in the Fourth Century. He spent his life finding ways to express the greatest mystery of the world: the incarnation, in which God became man.
Often the womb has been referred to as the "first home of the whole human race." It is the place where life begins, where our stories start. In the womb the great men and women of history began their magnificent march through life. In the womb Divinity met humanity, and God the Son was born into the world. As one of the Fathers of the early church, St. Leo the Great, declared, "Within her spotless womb Wisdom built itself a house and the Word became flesh."
Recently, I was at the hospital for the birth of my fourth grandchild. Looking through the nursery window at the rows of newly born babies, I began to think of the great stories that would be written about these tiny lives. During his visitation with the Virgin Mary, the angel prophesied to Mary about the life of her child. Here in this hospital, I pondered, what would he say about each of these? Would they meet the one who also came from His mother's womb to redeem the world and kindle our hearts afresh for God? I thanked God for each baby alive and prayed for each story yet to be written.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, you have made the womb of each woman a very special place. Help us to hold fast to the sanctity of this first home of humanity, remembering the wonderful mystery, that God inhabited the womb of a young woman and came forth as the savior and deliverer of the world. We ask this in the Name of the one who came forth, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Katie Riehle - Miracle Story

This is a picture of the three beautiful Riehle sisters. From left to right are Katie, Sam & Niccole. Katie was involved in a very tragic domestic abuse incident on January 15, 2011. She had very serious injuries and spent months in the hospital and rehab. As part of her recovery, surgeons had to remove a section of her skull to allow her brain swelling to reduce. Today she had surgery to put that piece of skull back on and, praise God, everything went better than expected!!!!! Katie is such a strong young woman and has made such amazing progress. She has astounded her doctors in her rate of recovery. She is a fighter and won't give up! She is really an inspiration. Her family has been absolutely amazing through this whole thing. It's been amazing for me to see how they have united as ONE and are conquering this together. GO RIEHLE FAMILY!!!!!!!!

You can read more about her story and her amazing journey by going to http://www.caringbridge.org/. Where it says Visit a Website, enter katieriehle. God has such great things planned for Katie. I'm excited to find out what!!!!!!!

Day 15 - Update

As of Day 15
132

lives have been saved!!!!!!!!

Here's one story:

COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND

A tall man and a visibly pregnant woman walked up to the abortion center, only to find the door was locked. “It’s closed,” said a 40 Days for Life vigil participant, “but I have information on free pregnancy help.” The woman took information on fetal development, but the couple walked around to the back of the building to try another door. It, too, was locked. So they sat on the steps and looked through the brochure they were given. Eventually, the building opened, and the couple went in. Two hours later, they came out — to get more information. “Can I ask you a personal question?” the volunteer said to the woman. “Were you thinking about getting an abortion?” “Yes, I was thinking about it. But now I’m not going to get one,” she answered. What changed her mind? “That booklet,” she said. “I didn’t know the baby looked like that and was that size.”

Leah's Spring Picture

She is getting so big! And of course she is very beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love the painted toenails.

40 Days for Life - Day 15

Today's reflection is meaningful for me. During the times I've stood outside Planned Parenthood, I have never been yelled at or felt threatened in any way. However, I have witnessed people shaking their heads or giving us nasty looks. Today's reflection says:

"Standing on the front lines, armed with God's truth, places you in the battlefield for the mind. As you are prepared to present words of love, for the sake of the unborn and for the distraught and confused women and men who are entering the abortion facilities, know that the enemy has prepared his forces to attack your mind. "

Good thing to keep in mind!


Here's another sweetie saved!!!!!!!

Amadeus DOB: August 28, 1998 Weight: 7 lbs 3 oz

When we first found out about the pregnancy, we were both scared and happy and confused all at once - it was very unexpected. We were together for a few years and previously planned to get married. A few weeks went by, and he demanded an abortion because he wasn't ready, but I refused to terminate my son's life. He threatened to leave me if I didn't comply, figuring that my love for him would over rule my decision. When that plan failed, he mentioned adoption once or twice, but I felt that after developing a relationship with my son for the prenatal 9 months I would be attached to my baby. After being with him that long, wouldn't want to part with him. I told him that I would keep my baby. He did leave, but losing him means nothing compared to the life I gained with my son. Now, it's been almost 2 years since I've had him. I have no regrets... I know I made the right decision. I wouldn't give him up for the world.

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Intention:

Pray that we will not become defeated by the enemy's attacks but rather call on the name of the Lord who is on our side and our help in time of trouble.

Scripture:

What if the Lord had not been on our side when people attacked us? They would have swallowed us alive in their burning anger. Praise the Lord, who did not let their teeth tear us apart! Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

-- Psalm 124:2,3,6,8

Reflection:

The enemy attacks in many ways, but one of his favorites is to slander us with hopes of tarnishing our reputation and character, and ultimately to defeat our good work for the Lord. It is interesting to note however that it is usually not the slander that causes harm to our testimony, but our response to the slander. Proverbs 24:10 says, "If you faint in the day of adversity your strength is small."

So if we are applying God's truths to our lives moment by moment, we are not swayed by the lies of the enemy and we will be strong.

Standing on the front lines, armed with God's truth, places you in the battlefield for the mind. As you are prepared to present words of love, for the sake of the unborn and for the distraught and confused women and men who are entering the abortion facilities, know that the enemy has prepared his forces to attack your mind.

Unkind words from a protester, or vicious lies in the local paper about who you are and what your mission is, can indeed be hurtful. But rather than give in to defeat, that is the time to shine for the Lord, standing firm, as you call on Him to defeat the enemy.

Remember the words of Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Let's stand strong for those who need us most.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, help us to ignore the verbal attacks of the enemy and instead turn to You, our refuge and strength. Help us to find shelter in the blessed promises and provisions of Your Word. Thank you that no enemy can defeat us, and we praise You knowing that nothing can separate us from Your love. In the name of Jesus, we come to You, amen.

Creation Calls Are You Listening?

Make sure you have your speakers on - beautiful music!

Year of the Pie Idea

High 5 Pie in Seattle, WA has a great option to a "piece" of pie. It's the Piepop! And they have gluten-free pie options also! Come to Lafayette High 5 Pie!!!!!!!

Probably the clearest 3D Scan Video of a baby at 12 weeks pregnant EVER!

And this is what 40 Days for Life is all about. There are many facilities that will abort a baby this far along. How can they not call it murder?

40 Days for Life - Day 14

Another life saved . . . .

Emani Nevaeh-Tabitha chose life for Emani while in the abortion clinic and left.

Intention:

Pray for the mothers going into pregnancy help centers. The personal care, the free ultrasound, the ongoing practical help is designed to deliver them from those who profit in shedding innocent blood.

Scripture:

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

-- Matthew 11:28

Reflection:

"You have twins. That will be another $350." She did not speak English. But she finally understood that they were telling her to go get more money and return for her abortion.

She had already given them her rent money. But they were not about to give her a two-for-one deal. They told her to get dressed and return with more cash. A couple, who was praying outside, comforted her. They brought her to their local pregnancy help center.

The staff quickly saw that her personal circumstances were so desperate, and immediate, that they would need direct and ongoing help from local Christians and churches. They started making calls.

Then they did the ultrasound. It showed there was only one baby, not two. This abandoned, immigrant, powerless mother was being exploited. She would do whatever she was told. Who would know? Who would care?

God calls us to "Rescue the weak and the needy; and deliver them from the hand of the wicked" (Psalm 82:4).

When you provide an alternative to abortion you are not only rescuing innocent babies, you are delivering mothers from the wicked: those who profit in the shedding of innocent blood. Pray for those who rescue and deliver daily at your local pregnancy help center.

Prayer:

Father, hear our prayer! Snatch desperate mothers from the fire. Bring them out of our abortion businesses and into our pregnancy help centers. Deliver them from evil. Use us to help them chose life and see your hand of provision.

Tight with the Bishop Now!

Angela and I had the opportunity to meet and get our photo taken with Bishop Timothy L. Doherty on Sunday, April 13th at the Cathedral for the Rite of Election. Angela will be baptized at the Easter Vigil service at St. Lawerence!!!!!! Anyway, it was a beautiful service and I am so excited for her.

40 Days for Life - Day 13

LOVE today's intention - God doesn't value people and things like we do. Jonah loved a shade tree more than an entire city of sinful people. We love our dogs more than a terrorist. We love our cars more than a beggar on the side of the road. And sometimes, we love our money more than a child growing in a desperate teenager's womb. God loves us more than ANYTHING else. He loves us unconditionally. Isn't that awesome?!?!?!?!?!? And He expects us to love others in the same way. After the day I had yesterday - struggling to follow His command to love others :( - this is such an appropriate thing for me to remember. God's timing is perfect!

Here's another beautiful child saved:





Tiffany Camile, Born 7/4/98, 6 lbs. 6 oz. 19" long

In the waning few minutes of July 4th as fireworks shattered a black velvet sky outside the hospital, I sat and gazed down on an exquisite newborn baby girl. Her tiny round head was crowned with downy black hair. Her little fists moved instinctively to her rosebud mouth. Her toes fanned and curled as she stretched her legs, as if she were trying out her boundless new home after such cramped quarters. How fitting, I thought, that this baby’s birth would be heralded with fireworks!

Tiffany Camile’s conception was under the worst condition imaginable. Her mother, Terri, was at a party where a seemingly innocent conversation led to her worst nightmare - Terri was raped. Two months later she faced the unthinkable - she was pregnant. She had only one thought - get rid of "it." She made an appointment at an abortion clinic. On the appointed day, she steeled her mind to silence her heart. As she lay on the table, waiting for the doctor to begin, she could no longer block out her heart’s cry, "You’re killing your baby for her father’s sin!" She told the doctor to stop, forced herself off the table, got dressed and left. There was no relief in her decision however. Terri still faced an unwanted pregnancy that would be a constant reminder of that night. At 24 weeks, she again made an appointment for an abortion - and again she couldn’t go through with it.

That was when she called Women’s Choice Pregnancy Clinic. She wanted to adopt but didn’t know what to do. Just carrying the baby was difficult enough - it was simply too overwhelming to have to deal with the details of arranging an adoption. When we met, I assured her that she would not have to worry about anything. I contacted With Child, a Phoenix based Christian adoption program and together we worked out the details. Our goal was two fold: First, to place this child with a committed Christian couple who would raise her in the Lords’ nurture and admonition. Second, to help Terri through the adoption and grieving process so she could move on with her life without being haunted by her decision.

On July 7th, 72 hours after her baby’s birth, Terri, Tiffany Camille, the adoptive parents, Debbie and Mark came together. For Terri it was a both sad and freeing. She was saying good-by to the child she had carried for nine months. Despite the circumstances, she had bonded to her baby. For Debbie and Mark, it was the culmination of their hopes and dreams of having a family. In a "Blessing Ceremony" that would give closure to all involved, Terri laid hands on both parents and gave her blessings as she transferred the authority for them to raise her child. A snippet of hair was placed in a heart locket, a gift to her from the adoptive parents.

When Debbie and I had first talked she told me her prayer was that God would give them a child who was a living testimony to God’s grace - a miracle child. God answered her prayers in Tiffany Camile.



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Intention:

We pray for the strength to love those who do not love us.

Scripture:

But the Lord said "You have had pity on the plant for which you have not labored, nor made it grow, which came up in the night and perished in the night. And should I not pity Nineveh, that great city, in which are more than one hundred and twenty thousand persons who cannot discern between their right hand and their left, and much livestock? Should I not be concerned about that great city?"

-- Jonah 4:10-11

Reflection:

God doesn't value people and things like we do. Jonah loved a shade tree more than an entire city of sinful people. We love our dogs more than a terrorist. We love our cars more than a beggar on the side of the road. And sometimes, we love our money more than a child growing in a desperate teenager's womb.

But God isn't like us. Genesis 1 tells us that humans were the capstone of God's creation. We were created on the sixth day after God had completed the land, the stars, the plants and the animals. Therefore, His love for us is greater than His love for a plant, an animal, or any other created thing. And the book of Jonah tells us that He loves even the most sinful people and seeks to bring them into His merciful arms. And it's a love that seeks to touch all of his created children: that desperate teenager, the baby growing in her womb, even tyrants and terrorists. So it's up to us to imitate God's merciful love by helping and praying for those who persecute us, and those who don't love us back.

Prayer:

Gracious God, loving our enemies seems like one of most difficult things you could ask of us. Please remind us that this is how you love and that if you ask it of us then you will give us the grace to do it. This we ask through Christ our Lord. Amen.

40 Days for Life - Day 12

James' Story:

Lucia was in her early twenties when she met Joseph, the man who was to become her husband, at a church sponsored dance.

Lucia and Joseph decided that the "ideal" family they would like to build together, given God's grace and blessing, would include exactly three children.
Through eleven years together, God provided according to their desires and His will. He gave three healthy children (two boys and a girl in the middle)!
When the children, Thomas, Clare and Robert were just 7, 4 and 2 years old, Lucia felt a familiar physical feeling come over her - she believed that she might be pregnant for a fourth time. She visited the family doctor to confirm the pregnancy she suspected and undergo a routine exam.

Lucia was indeed pregnant for a fourth child, but early during this unexpected time the doctor discovered a problem and he hospitalized her immediately - she had a cancer raging uncontrolled in her colon!

The doctor and surgeon prescribed an abortion, and surgery to remove the cancer- as the only and best possible treatment they could offer.

Lucia was just 35 years old and less than 2 months into her pregnancy. She and her husband already have three small children -exactly what they had "planned". She had given up a fashion design career she had begun when she was single to have and care for the family she bore. Lucia was deeply devoted to her three small children and husband. They all needed her.

The baby growing inside of her was less than an inch long. The fetus already looked human. Brain waves were present in the growing baby. The eyes, ears, nose, toes and fingers were formed, the heart was beating for its fourth week. Blood flowed. Reflexes occurred and parts of the skin were already sensitive to touch. Fingerprints had started to form along with lines on the palms of the hands.

But, Lucia's life was in mortal danger, she was just 35 years old, and she had much to do and to live for. The baby's life was also in mortal danger. He was just 8 weeks old. His mother's womb had suddenly become a very dangerous place to live, but- he had no "choice".

Lucia made her decision -not last year, -not ten years ago, nor even 20 years ago, -but over 40 years ago in the fall of 1955! At that time there were no magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines or computed tomography (CAT) scans available for carefully calculated precise measurement and diagnosis of the growing cancer. Crude chemotherapy treatments were available, but, laser or orthoscopic surgery tools or sophisticated biochemical treatments were not. Cancer was greatly feared- justifiably so, because there was remarkably little that doctors could do but possibly isolate the cancer by surgical removal. Slim hopes usually relied on surgery and getting it all, if possible.

Lucia understood God's perspective in this situation. The decision for her was clear. Why? Simply put, she knew what was right. She knew the value of life. Lucia was determined to keep the child, a gift from God, the author of life, the creator of all things, who said:
"I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice, and cleaving to him; for that means life to you and length of days..." (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

Lucia refused the abortion, but underwent surgery in October of 1955 at about 8 weeks of pregnancy to remove most of her colon. As a result, she lived the rest of her life with a colostomy.

". . . for that means life to you and length of days . . ."

God blessed her family with a complete cure of the cancer and many more years of life on earth for Lucia. Years enough that she would witness the birth of all six of her grandchildren. They would grow old enough to have their own memories of her. He brought her much comfort and peace as her health failed, gently and mercifully putting her mind at ease. His providence was truly amazing as time and time again he sent her just what she needed to move from this life to Him with grace and mercy. His plans for her complete, the Lord brought her home to everlasting life in 1995.

James married Bonnie and now they have two children of their own, gifts from God.

Their family is prolife.

Intention:

Pray to God who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, to end abortion in America.

Scripture:

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. -- Ephesians 3:20-21

Reflection:

God's power working in and through His people is unlimited and far beyond our comprehension when we submit to God's Word and Spirit. He receives glory when we are obedient to His calling and faithfully serve Him in His strength.

Consider God's hand of providence on this nation because of the faithfulness of a few who were totally committed to God and His truths. It is interesting to note the words of Mother Teresa of Calcutta: "Yours is the one great nation in all history which was founded on the precept of equal rights and respect for all humankind, for the poorest and weakest of us as well as the richest and strongest."

Mother Teresa, in addressing the Supreme Court of the United States said, "Human rights are not a privilege conferred by government. They are every human being's entitlement by virtue of his humanity. I have no new teaching for America. I seek only to recall you to faithfulness to what you once taught the world. Your nation was founded on the proposition very old as a moral precept, but startling and innovative as a political insight that human life is a gift of immeasurable worth, and that it deserves, always and everywhere, to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect."

It is time to restore that dignity and respect. Our God is able. Are we willing to remain faithful until His work through us is done?

Prayer:

God Almighty, Who is powerful and willing to supply, our hearts cry in unison for You to restore dignity and respect to human life, not only in America, but around the world. Lord, may our hearts remain faithful to your calling, and may You begin Your transforming work with me. Keep me ever mindful that with You Lord, nothing is impossible; without You, I can do nothing. To You be glory forever and ever, Amen.

40 Days for Life - Day 11

Julian's Story:

We needed a miracle. Julian's mother came to White Mountain Pregnancy Clinic seeking an abortion. Upon seeing her baby boy during a sonogram she chose "life". Wanting no one to know her situation, she needed a place to go for the duration of her pregnancy. We sent her to a home in Phoenix. During her stay she came to know Christ. Her fervent wish for her son was that he would be placed with a Christian family. This, however, seemed nearly impossible because he was half Native American and half African American. (It is extremely difficult to place Native American babies with non tribal families. The tribe must approve the adoption, something they rarely do.)
While the prayers were going up on Michael’s behalf, God was preparing the heart of Maurice and Suzi Provenche. They had adopted one baby, only to have her taken away because of a technical error which allowed the mother to change her mind. They were broken hearted. They then adopted their daughter. Desperately wanting more children, they were nonetheless wary of going through the procedure again. During a time of prayer, God spoke to Maurice that there would indeed be another child in their future. The waiting and wondering were almost too much to bear. Yet, they trusted in God’s promise as they prepared for the unknown child God had promised. Their joy was unspeakable when they received a call telling them that a baby boy was waiting for them. There was only one problem. They would have to appear in tribal court with the mother and plead their case. Still trusting that God had ordained this adoption, they nervously appeared before the tribal judge, petitioning the court to release Michael to their custody for adoption. Standing next to them was the birth mother and grandmother. The judge, who was very kind and gentle, honored the birth mother’s request to allow the Provenche’s to adopt her son.

Two hours later the birth mother, grandmother, Maurice, Suzi and Director, Dinah Monahan met in the WCPC clinic for the "Blessing Ceremony." The birth mother laid hands on the adoptive couple and prayed a prayer of blessing as she transferred the authority to raise her child to Maurice and Suzi. A minute alone, a tearful good-bye and the birth mother left, knowing God had heard her prayer and her son would be raised in a Christian home by parents who love him dearly.

Many people were involved in the care of Julian during the time it took to arrange his adoption - approximately two months. During that time, the counselors at WCPC fell in love with him. Over and over we were told that this adoption was close to impossible. But God had plans for Julian. When it was all over and Julian was home with his new mommy and daddy, all of us involved had a sense of awe, knowing that we had indeed been involved in a miracle!

*****************************************************************

Intention:

Pray that people of faith will have their strength renewed even in the face of the violence of abortion.

Scripture:

The favors of the Lord are not exhausted, his mercies are not spent. They are renewed each morning, so great is his faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait in silence for the saving help of the Lord.

--Lamentations 3:22-26

Reflection:

The Book of Lamentations, a short book of only five chapters, contains some of the most poignant expressions of human grief. These verses are used in many Churches on Good Friday, since they can be seen to express a prophecy of the suffering of the Lord and the lamentation of his followers on that dark day.

But in the midst of his grief, Jeremiah writes the verses quoted above. "The favors of the Lord are not exhausted." It is a call to hope that no matter how much violence there is, life will prevail in the end.

Why does he say, however, that God's mercies are renewed each morning?

Because early in the morning, on the first day of the week, the women came to the tomb -- and they found that the events of that morning changed everything.

Christ's victory over death came in the morning, and therefore each day we can renew our confidence that life has the final victory.

Prayer:

Lord, look kindly on your people who weep and mourn amidst the vast devastation that abortion has brought upon our land. We cannot even count the children killed, and the mothers and fathers wounded.

We cannot measure the devastation and corruption abortion has brought upon the very fabric of our society. But we declare today that your favors have not been exhausted, your mercies have not been spent. They are renewed each morning.

Give us new strength today in the resurrection of Christ your Son, that we may bear effective witness to the victory of life! In His name we pray, amen.

Dogs feel remorse too!!!!!

This is so funny!!!!!!

Today's Eye Opener

Taken from Von Keech's facebook. And how very very true it is! Let's all stop texting and driving.

40 Days for Life - Day 10

I really love today's intention and reading. Women who seek the avenue of abortion don't know in their heart that God ordains ALL life. He knows you before you were conceived! He has a plan for every one of his children. It is all in His plan. My prayer is that women and/or their partners who are seeking abortion as the solution will realize this.

My prayer vigil last night was again very inspiring. There is a lovely group of people there from 5:00 - 6:00 who are from our wonderful Hispanic community. The way they pray and sing is inspiring in itself. You can tell that they are so deeply connected to this cause. Last night they sang several songs in Spanish. I had no idea what they were singing, but they were so joyful in praising the Lord and I joined in by dancing as they were and smiling. They have really inspired me to really FEEL what I'm there for.


A precious soul saved . . . . .



Name: Noah Michael Shrader
DOB: October 18, 1999
Weight: 6 lb. 7 oz.

On June 3rd 1999 we were told through ultrasound that our son Noah Michael had a rare brain disorder. Numerous doctors told us that our son would never make it through birth and that if he did he would die very soon afterwards. Some doctors told us that abortion was the best option or all involved including the child. Once we told the doctor that we did not believe in abortion they were very distant in the the visits my wife and I made to their offices. One doctor told us that our son had a condition that was not compatible with life and aborting him would save him lots of pain. Our son was born October 18th full term crying his head off. While he had problems he survived for 10 months. We just buried him on August 23, 2000 and must say that my son's life was a joyful experience that many people would have missed out on if we had aborted him. He touched many people in his life time and will be remembered for years to come by lots of people.

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Day 10 - March 18

Intention:

May those who hold life as trivial realize that we live because God wills it so.

Scripture:

Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this, in His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.

-- Job 12:9-10

Reflection:

Job was a man acquainted with grief, trials and tribulation. He had everything taken from him, including his family. He endured sickness, ridicule and judgment from his friends. Everyone gave him advice about his situation, questioning his spirituality and his God. Job's circumstances were bad but he never loses faith. Why? Because "the hand of the Lord has made all life." Created by God, he knows his life has meaning and purpose, regardless of the circumstances.

In our present culture, we've lost that basic truth; every life is made and allowed to live by God's sovereign authority. As people who pride ourselves on our independence, we have a hard time acknowledging our dependence on God. From our creation, when we were knit together in our mother's womb to our last breath, God's word is clear that "in His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind."

It's time for us as individuals, and as a society, to recognize that we exist by God's grace and turn back to Him, honoring His word and His teachings. Why? Because our world is full of Jobs, people who are dealing with trials and tribulations and hurting desperately. Job's response should be ours as well. Regardless of what we face (even an unplanned pregnancy) God in His wisdom and mercy will redeem it. How do I know? Job's friends who doubted God's sovereignty cry out to God asking for help, God instructs Job to pray for his friends and after he does, God restores all that Job had lost. In other words, because Job never lost faith and knew and trusted His Creator, the Lord blessed Job.

Prayer:

Thank you Father God for being the Creator of my life and every life. Please give me, and the society in which I live, an appreciation for your gift of life. Please help us set aside our pride and acknowledge that we need you. Show me how I can honor you today in response to all the blessings you bestow so freely. In the name of Jesus, amen.

My 40 Days For Life Vigil Experience

I participated in the 40 Days for Life vigil tonight from 6:00-7:00. The weather WAS much warmer, however the wind was really strong. We hold signs that say on one side to pray for an end to abortion and on the other side quotes the bible verse from Jeremiah 1:5:

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

Several times I went running across the street and into the adjacent field chasing down signs that had been whipped out of someone's hands.

I guess the most powerful thing was that I kept getting a message to look up some bible passages. Not sure what, but I'll follow the Holy Spirit's lead and look into it.

Keep praying for an end to abortion and for all those who are involved in the 40 Days for Life campaign nationwide.

God Bless!

Today's Smiley

40 Days for Life - Day 9

Tonight I will attend the vigil from 6:00-7:00 outside Planned Parenthood. Our weather today is very nice - it's 67 degrees right now - so I don't think I'll have to have my coat halfway over my head!

I really like the intention and reading for today. I know there are women who have had abortions who, either did know know there were other options, or just simply made the wrong choice. The scripture reading will hopefully bring some relief from guilt for them.

Here's another life saved from abortion:

Her story:

Name: Alannah
DOB: 4/5/1995
Weight: 7lbs 11oz

I was 17 years old when I became pregnant with Alannah. I was raised pro-life and agreed whole heartedly. I was supported by my mother & family. However friends had other opinions. It wasn't a decision to have my child....It was already going to happen . I entered into to my senior year, took extra classes to ensure I would graduate and had a home tutor for my recovery time after I had my child. I endured many comments from a single male teacher at my school who taught my humanities class. He did not agree with my putting the whole school through my pregnancy, or my being allowed to graduate since I had to miss more than the allotted absences due to my baby. But through it all I graduated with my two month old daughter there to share the experience with me. I never planned to have a child so young, but when I look at her now, she is such a gift. She's a vibrant, advanced, thriving 5 year old, whom I couldn't imagine ever living without. As for my friends, I no longer speak to the ones who didn't support me. My best friend who was pregnant at the same time as me, and terminated her pregnancy, has never forgiven herself and lives in regret, especially when she sees my daughter.

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Intention:

Pray that the post-abortive woman would be repentant, accept forgiveness, be healed and restored, and bring glory to God with her new life.

Scripture:

I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord," and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.

-- Psalm 32:5

Reflection:

Because abortion is legal in America, many have justified their choice. "If it's legal, it can't be wrong, right?" We now have an entire generation of men and women who have never known abortion to be illegal; a generation of people who have never been broken over their sin of abortion.

As a result, the consequences of unconfessed sin weigh on their souls, yet they have never connected the dots as to why their hearts are heavy. No wonder we have millions of women who are struggling with depression, addictions, eating disorders and more.

Post abortion syndrome is very real but recovery begins when the individual agrees with God as David confessed in Psalm 51:3-4, 14, "Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight - that You may be found just when You speak, and blameless when you Judge. Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, the God of my salvation."

Brokenness is the key to accessing God's glorious mercy and healing. Christ came to heal the broken hearted and He is waiting with open arms to take the post-abortive woman on a glorious journey of healing and restoration if she will only run to Him.

God will not waste any sin we lay at His feet. Imagine millions of healed and restored post-abortive women like myself singing aloud of His righteousness and giving testimony of His love and forgiveness. What a day of rejoicing that will be!

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, you are our Healer. You have forgiven all my iniquities and removed my transgressions from me as far as the east is from the west. Guilt no longer has dominion in my life. Lord, we pray that post-abortive women across this nation will run to You to receive the gift of redemption and healing that comes from You only. In the name of our Savior we pray, amen.

40 Days For Life - Things are happening!

This is what I heard from a friend of mine today:


"I did the am vigil today. We had one woman who stopped to talk and who went to Matrix instead. Praise the Lord!"


Matrix Pregnancy Resource Center, http://www.matrixprc.org/, is a volunteer pregnancy service that offers alternatives to abortion to any woman who is distressed by an unwanted pregnancy or in financial need. And the great thing is that it is located just about across the street from Planned Parenthood! God's divine intervention at work once again.

The website for the Lafayette, Indiana 40 Days For Life Campaign is

http://www.40daysforlife.com/lafayette/

Today's Smiley

Thought for the Day

"When man hears God's spirit speak within the human heart, inherent in such an experience is the fact that God simultaneously hears that man's prayer."

40 Days for Life - Day 8

It's hard to believe that tomorrow will be my second time to pray at the vigil. And it looks like the weather is supposed to be much warmer than last week. I may even wear my flip flops!!!

There has been a lot of activity nationwide just during this first week of 40 Days! God is working with us. I love the intention for today because I feel that God has given me zeal to participate in not only this prayer vigil but to also go on and help out in other ways. And the ending prayer speaks so well to what this 40 Days is all about. We are not there to judge, harrass or debate. Only to pray that those seeking abortion will allow the Holy Spirit to change their hearts.

Here is a picture of a precious little one who was brought into the world instead of removed from it by abortion.

Here's his story:

Baby's Name: Isaiah Hardwick
Baby's DOB: October 30, 2000
Baby's Weight: 7lbs 10oz
I could not believe it when I saw the stick turn pink. How could I be pregnant yet again. You see, I placed my first child, Emily, in an open adoption in 1998. How could I do this again?

I called his Father, Michael, in distress. Over the phone I blurted out that I was pregnant. I was met with silence. Finally, when I burst into tears he spoke. "What are we going to do? Are you sure you are pregnant?"

"Of course I am sure" I snapped back through my tears! I was waiting for him to ask the infamous question and he did. "Are you sure it is mine?"

"Yes, I wouldn't involve you in this if I was not sure" And I wouldn't of. I am not into emotional mind games.
"We have to abort!" I cried. My heart broke to even utter the words. You see, I have always been prolife.

Six months earlier I trained at a local Crisis Pregnancy Center. I knew hat I should be there...for some reason. When it came time to actually volunteer...I did not feel lead to do so. It was as if I was only there to learn from the classes. "Why, I asked myself, am I here?"

"To save the life of your next child." Was the reply. I shook it off.

The day I found out I was pregnant, those words haunted me. I know so much, I have talked with women who have or were intending on aborting...how could I?

Over the next few weeks, I stayed emotionally numb. I had to. I had to deny a part of myself, my mothering instinct. Whenever it would try to arise, I would push it down in a deep corner. I had to...If I allowed it to surface, I could never go through with it.

The Father and I continued to talk, but only because I went to my old job, where we met and he still worked. He promised to call me, but never did.

I began to research on the internet about the actual process...and what others who have been through it have said. I believe I cried for a week straight. I would curl in a ball and sob. I found heart wrenching stories. Countless.

These women were treated as cattle. Instead of someone listening to them...they saw them as a commodity. The physical pain they endured through the 'procedure' was nothing compared to the after effects emotionally. Abortion: One dead. One wounded.

Could I do this? What would people think of me? I gave one child up, and here I am doing it again. I am such a mistake, for that is all I can seem to do right, make mistakes.

I became very suicidal. I couldn't tell my Mother, my family. I didn't tell many people for the first four months. I felt utterly alone.

I had a plan. I knew how I would end my life. I wrote a letter...to my Mother. What got me out of that was the thought of breaking my Mothers heart to no repair. I love her. I can disappoint her, but I could not break her heart.

The Father continued to pressure me to abort. I was changing my mind, slowly. I was becoming a feeling person again. He could not have another baby he would say over and over again.

I even named the baby. I always knew it was a baby, not a piece of tissue. Elijah. I even put his name in a memorial for aborted and miscarried babies.
When I decided not to abort him, at three months along. I changed his name to Isaiah.

I then talked to many online, what I call, angels. They talked to me, informed me and reminded me the truths I knew deep inside. That I loved this baby, my baby. He needed me, he depended on me. I was his Mother.

When I told the Father I was going to give this child life, he became very upset. He was convinced that I was trying to ruin his life! What life, I thought. He had two other children. His life consisted of drugs and partying. At the age of 26, he was not going to slow down. He was an abusive man, never kept a promise.

"Your life" I said. "Remember, I was on my way to going to the private college I have been dreaming of going to...I was going to start life over again." I tried to convince him this baby did not ask to be here..but does ask to have a chance to live. It was his right, and I would not take it away in the name of inconvenience.

The Father pulled away from me. He wanted to make this about him. We fought constantly. He promised many things, and broke them all. I was beginning to realize he would not stick around. I learned later he has another child on the way.

I was four months pregnant when I told my Mother I was pregnant. She is my role model, I adore my Mother. For the past few months, I was sure she would disown me. Well, I have learned never to doubt a Mother's unconditional love. She was upset, of course. We are closer than ever. I lived under the fear of being disowned for no reason.

The rest of my family were supportive also. It was a big relief to me.

At five months pregnant, just before Father's Day, I gave the Father a card. Inside I wrote a letter to him from the baby's point of view along with a sonogram photo.

Two days later, he left my life and I have not heard or seen him since.

That letter that I put inside the card is now one of my most popular submissions on Themestream.

I continued the pregnancy without him. I was falling in love with this child more and more each day. I decided to parent him and prepared for his arrival.

I counseled with friends on the internet and even received gifts from people I had met. I even was sent a brand new crib and mattress!

People, strangers even, came through for my baby and I. Even 'Abortion TV' had send me a wonderful generous gift. It is easy to say you are pro-life, but to get out there and help a woman in need speaks volumes.

One day, I received a package in the mail. It was sent from the memorial I had put my, so I thought, soon to be aborted babies name in. As I held the piece of paper, which represented death, I thought of the child within me, he is alive.
On October 30, 2000 my beautiful son made his entrance into the world! He has changed my life more than I could have ever known.

My family adores him. I enjoy watching them love and fall all over him. They have helped me with diapers and clothing and such. I feel confident about the future.

I find some nights I creep to his bassinet and just watch him sleep. I gaze at his every detail...the curve of his tiny nose...the pattern of his sandy hair. His every breath is a blessing. Knowing that I had the right to take that away from him in the name of 'choice'. What about his choice?

Isaiah is the miracle I did not know I needed.

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Intention:

We pray for a renewal of our zeal to offer generous help to the unborn and their families.

Scripture:

If I have despised the cause of my male or female servant When they complained against me, What then shall I do when God rises up? When He punishes, how shall I answer Him? Did not He who made me in the womb make them? Did not the same One fashion us in the womb?

-- Job 31:13-15

Reflection:

The ground is level as we stand before God.

Job lived with an awe provoking sense of God's expectation of him, particularly regarding his obligation to care for the weak and needy. He knew that in God's economy everyone stands on level ground when it comes to our status as God's creatures. Because of that central truth, we must take care of each other.

Job also knew that he didn't deserve any of the good things God gave to him. Instead, those blessings came to Job from God's benevolent heart. As an extension of that knowledge, Job instinctively linked his obligation to be generous to others to God's kindness toward him.

As in Jesus' parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:23-35), Job knew that it is an egregious sin to deny to others what we enjoy ourselves. He actually calls down on his own head severe condemnation and even punishment should he fail to share with others out of his own abundance (see verses 16-23).

Proverbs 3:27 reads, "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do so." Some things are so obvious that we don't even need to pray except to ask of God forgiveness and the power to do what so obviously needs doing.

Prayer:

God, forgive us when we try to explain away the obligation we have to help others who need help. Enable us to not devalue them because they are in the circumstance that they are in, but to see them for what they are, those, who like us, were formed by your hand in their mother's womb. Amen.

The Most Beautiful Stairs

This steel sculpture is a wonderful peace of art designed by Olafur Eliasson. This beautiful merging of art and architecture is a 9 meter-high walk-double spiral of steel in the entrance of the KPMG ( a global accounting firm ) office building in Munich, Germany. The stair is called Umschreibung (Rewriting), and was completed in 2004.

Thought for the Day

God gives every bird its food, but He does not throw it into its nest.

40 Days For Life - Day 7

Another life saved:


Baby's Name: Elexis Hazel Bullard
Baby's DOB: 9-6-97
Baby's Weight: 8 lbs.4 oz.

I was a teen model and when I got pregnant they told me it was the end of my short career. I was only a senior in high school and very confused. I was so pressured not to "give up my life just for one mistake." The fact that I was sick as a dying dog didn't help too much, but I knew that I just couldn't kill the life inside me. I made a sacrifice for my daughter and not a day goes by that I am thankful for the decision I made.


Intention:

Pray that the abortionists and all workers in
abortion facilities would be troubled in their
souls regarding their work and would seek truth.

Scripture:

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor,
and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all
malice. And be kind one to another, tenderhearted,
forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake
has forgiven you.

-- Ephesians 4:31-32

Relfection:

We see the evil and oppression in the world, the
arrogance of those who mock God, the millions of
innocent lives destroyed because of the greed of a
few.

Our flesh tells us that we should take justice in our
own hands, but instead of vengeance, the Lord calls us
to love our enemy, to forgive others as we have been
forgiven.

God loves the abortionist and the Planned Parenthood
advocate just as much as He loves you.

It breaks His heart to see them in bondage to sin and
He is giving you this opportunity to introduce them to
the Savior who sets the captive free.

Though you may not experience direct interaction with
these souls, your presence will not go unnoticed. Your
non-verbal communications speak volumes about the God
you serve.

Forgiveness is an act of obedience to God (Colossians
3:13). Forgiveness is not condoning or overlooking the
wrong behavior of others, but rather it is freeing
ourselves so that God can work mightily through us to
touch their hearts for Him.

Let's join our hearts with His in recognizing that
those in the abortion industry are not the enemy, but
rather they are blinded by the enemy.

God desires that we bring them the message of truth
and hope found in Christ, but the messengers He will
use are those willing to forgive.

Prayer:

Dearest God, You tell us in Proverbs that the foolish
and the wicked lack wisdom and understanding. I pray
you will trouble the souls of those in the abortion
industry so that they hunger for truth and cry out for
freedom.

I pray that my life would reflect my redemption so
others may see it and trust in You. In obedience to
You, and by your grace, I choose to forgive others as
you have forgiven me. In the name of Christ my
Redeemer I pray, Amen.

It's The Year of the Pie

So I guess when you think of the word pie you think of something yummy, yummy. Something warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. But to be fair, there are other people who hear the word and think of mathematical equations. The second group mentioned have their day also. It's called Pi Day.

Pi Day is a holiday commemorating the mathematical constant π (pi). Pi Day is celebrated on March 14 (or 3/14 in month/day date format), since 3, 1 and 4 are the three most significant digits of π in the decimal form. In 2009, the United States House of Representatives supported the designation of Pi Day.

But . . . . . . . . . . . .

BORING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is also the year of the REAL pie. The one that you create and want to share with others for their enjoyment.

But lets get down to the nitty gritty. Everyone thinks they have the best pie recipe. It may be one they ran across by accident, or one they inherited from their ancestors. Or maybe even one from Sara Lee. Whatever the case, let's get a contest going! We never see each other enough. Maybe we could get together and all bring what we think is the BEST PIE EVER!

CHALLENGE FOR THE YEAR : Let's all learn to make delicious pies this year. My challenge, which I will share with you, will be to make these pies gluten & dairy free! Here's one that looks totally sinful!


Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffle Pie
















Ingredients:

Crust1box Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box
Truffle Filling1/2cup whipping cream
1cup dark chocolate chips
1/2teaspoon vanilla
Peanut Butter Filling1cup whipping cream
1package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1cup creamy peanut butter
1cup powdered sugar
Topping1/4cup dark chocolate chips
1tablespoon shortening
2tablespoons coarsely chopped salted peanuts


Directions:

Heat oven to 450°F. Bake pie crust as directed on box for One-Crust Baked Shell, using 9-inch glass pie plate. Cool completely on cooling rack, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, heat 1/2 cup whipping cream over medium-high heat until hot. Remove from heat; stir in 1 cup chocolate chips and the vanilla until smooth. Spread truffle filling in bottom of baked crust. Freeze 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, in medium bowl, beat 1 cup whipping cream with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Set aside. In another medium bowl, beat cream cheese, peanut butter and powdered sugar with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth; fold in whipped cream. Carefully spread over truffle filling. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.

In small microwavable bowl, microwave 1/4 cup chocolate chips and the shortening uncovered on High 30 to 60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds, until melted. Drizzle chocolate over pie; sprinkle with peanuts. Cut into wedges to serve. Cover and refrigerate any remaining pie.

High Altitude (3500-6500 ft):
No change.

Nutritional Information:

1 Serving (1 Serving)Calories 520(Calories from Fat 340),Total Fat 38g(Saturated Fat 17g,Trans Fat 1/2g),Cholesterol 55mg;Sodium 270mg;Total Carbohydrate 35g(Dietary Fiber 2g,Sugars 21g),Protein 9g;Percent Daily Value*:Calcium ;Exchanges:1/2 Starch;0 Fruit;2 Other Carbohydrate;0 Skim Milk;0 Low-Fat Milk;0 Milk;0 Vegetable;0 Very Lean Meat;0 Lean Meat;1 High-Fat Meat;6 Fat;Carbohydrate Choices:2;*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Today is National Napping Day

National Napping Day came about because of the time change we have to make because of Daylight Saving Time (which was yesterday). It was invented to ensure that you are able to make up for lost sleep. Most people will lose an hour of sleep over the weekend due to springing forward, but since 1999, there has been an official holiday to help make up for the lost zzzzs.

Boston University professor William Anthony and his wife Camille founded National Napping Day in 1999. The day is an unofficial holiday to help make the transition to each year’s Daylight Saving Time. The special day devoted just to naps is also to help promote the restorative benefits of a short afternoon nap.

I personally think that we as a nation should adopt some form of a siesta every day!

Here's an excerpt from an article I read:

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"Twenty minutes is long enough to leave you feeling rejuvenated without the drowsy effects of a longer sleep," explains Christopher Lindholst, who founded the company along with partner Arshad Chowdhury.

And to make sure those 20 minutes are as restful as possible, the two men have turned napping into a science.

They custom built the trademarked "pod chair," a swank spherical container that takes its design cues from Stanley Kubrick and the Jetsons. The upper part of the chair blocks out the sight of fellow nappers, while the lower portion adjusts to raise or lower the feet. The room is cooled to a comfortable temperature, and white noise blocks out the city below.

The entire napping process is designed to be quick and easy - the drowsy can walk in, store their bags in a locker, and be asleep within minutes.

The lights around the chair dim to initiate the nap, and when the 20 minutes are up, the back of the chair gently vibrates and the lights slowly come back on.

After visiting the "freshening up" station - complete with breath mints, sprays, and towelettes - the napper can be out the door within 25 minutes.

Mr. Chowdhury first got the idea for MetroNaps when he noticed the toll of sleepiness on his coworkers. He decided to leave his banking career and team up with Mr. Lindholst to start Metronaps. Although they've been in business only a few months, offers have already come in to franchise the pods.

"Airports, hospitals, bus terminals, office buildings, anywhere people get tired and might want to nap, have all shown interest," says Lindholst. Each pod costs about $7,950.

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Well, I guess if you don't have the $7950 for the chair, you may want to try some of these:

Find a big ear to sit under . . . .















Find a tree close by and chill for 25 minutes . . . .











If you have a desk job, continue sitting in your chair, looking at your computer and just fall asleep!