march 13, 2006

Lk 6:36-38
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
“Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.
Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”
It seems so simple but living a life that is truly merciful, kind and forgiving is anything but simple. There is no doubt that it is the right path though. Knowing that it is the way of the Lord makes the difference in being able to endure and perservere and give with a light and cheerful heart. It is so clear that I will receive what I give and in the measure that I give. Create in me a clean heart and a steadfast spirit.

  

March 12, 2006

Fast of Esther From Wikipedia

The Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Ester, Hebrew תענית אסתר) is a minor Jewish fast from dawn until dusk on Purim eve, commemorating the three day fast observed by the Jewish people in the story of Purim. This fast was accepted by the Jews for all future generations as it is stated: And as they accepted upon themselves and upon their children, the matters of their fastings and their cry (Book of Esther 9).

The Fast is observed on the 13th day of the Hebrew month of Adar. If the Fast of Esther falls on Shabbat, the fast is observed on the preceding Thursday.

Since the Fast of Esther is not one of the four public fasts ordained by the Prophets, the laws are more lenient; pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those who are weak are not required to observe it.

The Gregorian date for the Fast of Esther in 2006 is March 13. Purim begins at sunset.

I recently watched a movie on the History Cable channel that featured the story of Queen Esther. It was a portrait of courage and wisdom in a time of great trials and suffering. Esther put the needs of others before her own life. There is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friends. She was willing to die in order to save others. Her courage is an inspiration. I believe I can live more fully if I can love that completely. I believe that I must give my life to God with a full and open, giving heart ready to sacrifice or give in ways that only the future will reveal. I pray that my heart stays open and willing to follow God's will and loving way in all that I do.