CCASTA

How Jesus deals with dead things.

Believing is Seeing

God's Love and our Struggle with Addictions

How Jesus Heals People

Based on John 9

New Life

God's Love

Why Jesus Came

Forgiveness

Building your LIfe on the Word

Your Life Support System

Simple Prophecy and It's Use

Defining the Gifts

The Holy Spirit - Person, Deity and Work

Conversational Prayer

Process of Growth

Serve Model

Spiritual Gifts in the Life of the Christian is a 4 week seminar that is designed to introduce people to the place and function of spiritual gifts in the Christian life.Spiritual gifts are “tools” that express God’s care and presence to those who are most in need of His help. The gifts are given to help another Christian minister to a person in any kind of need.This seminar will explore the biblical and Catholic basis of spiritual gifts. It will seek to help apply the gifts to everyday life situations that Catholics find themselves. Every baptized Catholic is a vessel of the Lord’s care and presence to help another in need.

Part 4

Part 3

part 2

Part 1

I. The Pentecostal outpouring of the Holy Spirit—2:14–47A. Peter’s explanatory sermon—2:14–391. Pentecost is the fulfillment of the dying and rising of Jesus2. Pentecost completes the Lent-Easter season3. Pentecost inaugurates the “last days”.4. “Awaiting” the Lord’s return, the church is called to “Go” to evangelize the nations (see Luke 24:49 and Mt. 28:18-20)5. Pentecost fulfills Joel’s prophecy (Joel 2) and Ezek. 36:24-266. The gifts of the Spirit, signs and wonders that were found in the ministry of Jesus, now in the Church as indications of “heaven visiting earth”. (See Mark 16:15-20)7. Repentance, faith in Jesus Christ as Lord, and baptism makes possible the reception of the gift of the Holy Spirit II. The new church after Pentecost—2:40–47A. The Church born out of the wounded side of Jesus1. The Spirit is “breathed” upon the Church (See John 20:19ff).2. Luke gives us a picture of the early Church in Acts -a picture of life in the Christian communities, the first 30 years.B. Elements of Christian community life1. Apostles’ teaching -most likely practical application of Jesus’ teaching to live the Christian life.2. Breaking of bread- Eucharist, gathering at mass3. Communal life-sharing of resources, fellowship through prayer and meals.4. Prayers-gathering at certain hours for prayer according to the inherited Jewish liturgical practice.Reflection questions:1. How would you describe the impact of the outpouring of the Spirit on the first Christians?2. In the Liturgical season of Easter, the Catholic church proclaims as its first reading from the book of Acts. What do you think is the significance of this for today?3. If we are living in the “last days” what becomes the essential imperative for the Church? Why?4. Reflect on one of the four common elements of the first Christian communities. What would this impact be on the local Catholic parish today?

Session 2. The power of prayer Upper room A. Acts 1:12-14 1. It was the place of Last supper and then Pentecost 2. Luke names the 11: two by two= symbol of the church See Lk. 10:1; Mk. 6:7 3. Women have a prominent place amongst apostolic leaders ( as well as the Gospel of Like). See Acts 2:17 B. Mary’s role 1. See Catechism #726; 494; 2. Mary is new eve - she is with the 12 at dawn of a new time 3. The Holy Spirit upon her at Jesus’ birth and now at the church’s birth at Pentecost. II. The replacement Acts 1:15-26 A. Peter is clearly the leader of the 120 1. The need for 12 th to fulfill Israel being restored to 12 tribes. 2. The criteria is: a. Witness to the resurrection B. With Jesus all along. B. Persistent prayer and the early church 1. Fervent prayer characterized the church 2. Mary symbolizes the praying church 3. Do we trust in His power or do we trust more in our ability as our greatest assets? Questions: Why did the church get “ born” in prayer? Why did God choose this way for the church to have life? Describe Mary’s role in the birth of the church? How would you describe the effectiveness of your prayer life? What can be done to improve it?

Book of Acts session 3. Acts 2:1-13. See also Catechism #731-41. Introduction A. Luke’ s gospel shows Jesus beginning his ministry at his baptism in the Jordan River. Lk. 3: 21-22. 1. Acts 2. Shows the Holy Spirit coming upon the 120 to give birth to the church. 2. Jesus’ pattern of ministry is the same for his church. II. Acts 2:1-4. A. Time of Pentecost is fulfilled. 1. God’s plan is accomplished. See Lk. 9:51. 2. 50 days after Passover = feast of Pentecost- time to give thanks for the covenant and law given at Mt. Sinai. Ex. 19. 3. Now a new law-the Holy Spirit- see Romans 8:2. This fulfills Jer. 31:31-34. 2Cor. 3:2-6. B. Noise, wind, tongues as of fire 1. Wind = Holy Spirit. 2. Noise= Ex. 19. 3. Fire-cleansing, Lk. 3:16. 4. Tongues = languages of the nations see Acts 1:8; Lk. 24:49. III. Acts 2:5-10, 11-13. A. Acts 1:8- witnesses. See Isaiah 49. Vocation of Israel is to witness to the nations the mighty acts of God. 1. V.11 tongues- see Gn. 11:1-11. Babel represented human striving to seek power, wealth, security without God. 2. At Pentecost, God heals and cleanses the human heart with the Holy Spirit and overcomes human division by bringing the heart under the Lordship of Jesus. B. Acts 2:12-13 1. Wine in OT is symbol of joy, abundance of blessing that the Messiah brings. See Joel 4:18; Amos 9: 13-14. Rom. 5:5. John. 2:10. 2. Tongues at Pentecost is like prophecy: declaring the heart and the mind of God for his people. 3. There is also a personal use of tongues to build up oneself. 1Cor. 14:1-5. Questions: More love, more power awaits us. How do you enter into that?Why do you think God began the church the way he did? What role does tongues, prophecy, and other gifts of the Spirit have as their purpose for the church?

The Promise of New life, session 1 Acts 1:1-12.IntroductionA. Luke is author of the Gospel of Luke and his sequel: the books of acts.1. His goal: to proclaim the work of Jesus through the Holy Spiritthrough his body the church.2. V.1-3: The Father's plan is to reveal his heart for a suffering andlost world through his church.3. What is "kingdom?"a. It is rule or reign over an area or peopleb. It is not physical, but spiritual with physical impact.c. Jesus' kingdom came with:Himself-he embodied the kingdomWith his word or teachingili.With his signs and wonders4. V. 4-5. The promise of the Holy Spirita. Made by the Father: this is the fruit of Jesus' paschal mystery.b. The Holy Spirit dwells in us to make us like Jesus.c. Jesus told them to "wait". This implies prayer.5. V. 6-7. The disciples are operating on the level of material orearthly strategy. "When will the kingdom of Israel be restored?"a. There is a certain sense that they still didn't get it.b. They looked at things from political lensActs 1:8 -key passage to understand the book of Acts.A. Power: the word for "dynamite"1. Power for transformation2. Power for intimacy with the Lord3. Power to do signs and wondersB. Witness- martyr.1. Expectation is to be sold out to Jesus and his missionie. Mt. 16:24-28.2. Mission is local and global. "Jerusalem, Judea, etc."

Overcoming an Earthly Mindset

Overcoming Bitterness, Lesson 5. I. Gn. 45:3-11A. Relationships move forward through the power of forgiveness1. God’s work in Joseph’s life was for the sake of Egypt.2. Through this work in Joseph’s life others would benefit, including Joseph’s family.B. “I am Joseph” is a powerful moment of revelation of him to his brothers.1. It was based on all God had done in his life to this point.2. He could have responded to his brothers in bitterness but instead, chose to respond out of God’s plan for his life.3. A second chance had been given to the brothers.C. From the cross, Jesus gives the human race a “2nd chance” as well.1. “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do…”2. Jesus chose to respond out of His Father’s plan.II. Gn. 45:5-8A. Joseph acknowledges it was all God’s plan -weaving the events of his life into God’s purposes.1. He allowed his brothers to begin to see how God was working through it all.2. Joseph saw how God was at work redeeming his life and then using the events for the sake of others in need.B. Gn.45: 9-111. Joseph wanted to restore his father (heal him of his grief) and the family through them moving to Goshen.2. At the cross we were not only forgiven, but in the pouring out of the Spirit at Pentecost God wants to restore the human race.III. The challenge of forgiving others.A. “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…”1. Start where you can and ask for the Holy Spirit’s help.2. Pray for the person: prayer will overcome the wound of your heart.B. Forgiving others is rooted in the nature of God: He is merciful.1. Forgiveness is not based on our feelings, but our decision to obey the Lord’s word.2. Forgiveness requires the power of the Spirit to help us.1. What is the most difficult aspect of forgiving others have you ever experienced?2. What does bitterness do to you?3. Who do you need t forgive?

Lesson 4: Overcoming Hard TimesGN. 41:28-36,46-49.I. IntroductionA. Challenging times and storms that come into our life can seem daunting.1. We are called to trust God in these times.2. God has plans and wisdom for us.3. In Joseph’s life we are to learn how God used him so that we can see how he wants to use us.II. God reveals himself and his plans to a person. Gn. 41:28,32A. Pharaoh’s dream was 7healthy cows and 7 sickly cows; 7 healthy stalks of grain and 7 poor stalks of grain.1. His magicians and wise leaders were unable to understand the dream.2. Pharaoh was commander of the most powerful nation on the earth at his time. He represented an entire span gods.B. The Lord revealed his plans to Joseph.1. Joseph was of the covenant of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (his father).2. Joseph was turned to the Lord in relationship with him.III. God uses people. Gn. 41:33-36A. God uses people in the bible who have limits, weaknesses, faults and patterns of sin as well as good and strong points, gifts and talents.1. Joseph was gifted with leadership, administration and interpretation of dreams.2. He never took these for granted.IV. We can trust God’s plans fully no matter how grave the situation. Gn. 41:47-54.A. God gave Joseph direction that emerged out of his gifts and abilities.1. Joseph engaged the people and the country of Egypt.2. He applied his gifts and talents and experience to life’s situation in Egypt.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++For reflection: 1. In God’s dealings with Egypt, what does this tell us about God’s character?2. When has God given you a clear picture of what to do?3. Are you aware of the gifts, talents and skills he has given you? Are you using them for His glory and the service of his people.4. How does God use our gifts and talents to prepare for future challenges?

Lesson 2 Overcoming temptation continued;C. V. 201. Prison-mild punishment considering he was a foreign slave who was accused of attempted rape of an Egyptian noble woman.2. Lord’s favor upon him in prison, so he could accomplish his purposes.II. Overcoming temptationA. RM. 7:15ff. be aware of the “war” from within. Jesus Christ has won us victory at the cross over it and we are joined to Him in baptism.B. Keep before yourself in meditation your end: you will stand before the Lord as a merciful savior and Just Judge.C. Avoid “near” occasions of sinD. Lean on the “power of the Spirit”: Accept and ask for more of the Spirit’s power to grow in holiness.E. Find a good Christian friend to share your struggles and/or the sacrament of reconciliation.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Lesson 3: Overcomers: Rising above life’s challenges-Overcoming being forgottenI. Gen. 39:21-23; 40:5-8,20-23.A. Joseph is in prison due to a false allegation against him.1. 39:21-the Lord gave him favor with the prisoners and warden.2. God gifted Joseph with dreams and leadership. He used both in prison.3. Cupbearer: advisor to the ruler.B. Vv. 21-23: Joseph remained faithful to the Lord: He had a covenant with the Lord through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (his father).1. In the covenant, God’s character, attributes (the way he is) and his promises are all revealed to Israel.2. Joseph, knowing the character of God, trusted in the Lord’s plans and purposes-even when he didn’t know the future.C. Gen. 40:5-8, 20-231. Joseph showed great compassion to the distraught prisoners: cupbearer and chief baker. He was their attendant in prison.2. He asked to be remembered by them when they came into Pharaoh’s court again. They didn’t.3. Joseph was “forgotten” by them. He went from being favored son to Jacob, to slave to highest administrator in Potiphar’s house, to prison as a slave. He spend some 13 years in prison.II. How do we rise above life’s challenges as did Joseph?A. What is your world view? How do you see God?1. How you see and understand Him will determine in times of challenge whether you will rise above life’s challenges or be overwhelmed by them.2. Attitudes to overthrow in our heart:a. “I’ve got to think of me first”b. “DO whatever feels good”c. “Whatever works for you”d. “God doesn’t matter; you are on your own.”3. How do we cultivate an attitude that says: “God made me for his purposes?”a. Learn the truth of who God is in his word. Build your life on His word. His word reveals the character and promises of who he is.b. Turn from the world to the word. See Romans 12:2 Get informed on God’s word that shapes your attitudes, values, behavior rather than the world’s current of opinions.c. Concern yourself with God’s agenda. See Mt. 6:33.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Reflection questions:1. Are you aware of the Lord’s gifts to you? How are you using them for his glory and the service of others?2. How well do you “know” the Lord: his character and promises? How grounded are you in His word?3. What attitudes of the world shape how you see life? Where do you need to change to conform to God’s way of seeing?

Overcomer: Lesson 1, Living through betrayalsI. Gn. 37: 19-22,27A. Betrayals indicate the power of relationships in our life.1. IT comes from people we have entrusted ourselves too.2. It can be a most devastating hurt in our life.3. Think of Jesus’ betrayal by Judas and the by Peter’s denial.B. Joseph’s relationship with his brothers was rooted in three things:1. Jacob his father had betrayed Esau (his brother) See GN. 27. Family generational behavior of betrayal.2. Joseph was Jacob’s favorite (coat of many colors indicating favoritism)3. Joseph was boastful about his dreams that spoke of dominating his brothers and the family line. He was the youngest brother.C. The bible and dreams1. The dream played an important role in the life of Joseph. Later on in his life, dreams would give insight and understanding for future events in Egypt.2. Daniel uses dreams to understand God’s plan for his people in exile.3. St. Joseph (in the NT) was guided by dreams to take Mary as a wife and protect the newly born child.II. Gn. 37: 23; 39:1-3.A. See also Gn. 37:34-35. Joseph enjoyed the affection and favoritism of the father.1. Jacob in the betrayal lost his son. He thought he was dead.2. Joseph in the betrayal lost his family status and seemingly his future.3. Acts of betrayal have unintended consequences.B. Betrayal does not define your story.1. Joseph may have thought his life was over. 2. Joseph’s life was to unfold many miles into a different culture and country.3. But God was at work, working out his plan.4. One can see in Joseph, with him being the “favorite” son-Jesus who was God’s only begotten Son who was betrayed by Judas and the Pharisees of Israel.C. God granted Joseph favor in Potipher’s house.1. TO overcome betrayal means adopting a big picture.2. A “God-like” perspective means to understand how that pain might be re-purposed in God’s plan.3. Jesus’ cross and its’ humiliations and pain was re-purposed for the world’s salvation. Reflection questions:1. Where have you experienced betrayal? What did that feel like to you?2. How has betrayal made it difficult to trust?3. Can you look back on your life and see how God worked things out when you were betrayed?4. How did God re-purpose your pain in the betrayals of your life?Session 2: Overcomers: Overcoming temptationI. Gn. 39: 1-21.A. The Lord’s hand was on Joseph meaning the Lord’s power was leading him.1. Success for Joseph meant to accomplish the Lord’s purposes2. V. 2-He was being formed to be an effective leader and administrator.3. V. 4-overseer-authority over the palace and possessions of Potiphar’s houseB. Vv. 6-181. Temptations to Joseph was an assault on chastity2. He avoids the near occasions of sin3. He overcomes sin by refusing to place himself in circumstances that would beTempting.C. V. 201. Prison-mild punishment considering he was a foreign slave who was accused of attempted rape of an Egyptian noble woman.2. Lord’s favor upon him in prison, so he could accomplish his purposes.

Living free of anxiousness: Psalm 23, taking comfort in His careI. Psalm 23: A psalm for the living.23:1-Jesus fulfills the Shepherd’s role-beyond expectations. See John 10:11.David is credited for writing this psalm when he was young as a shepherd boy. He served his father Jesse as he watched over the sheep near Bethlehem.Psalm 19 also fits this category.Psalm 23 and 19are two psalms to cultivate in the people the heart of a“giant-killer.Psalm 23:2 -Greek word of love is “agape”: means to lead like a shepherd and to rest. So, Jesus is perfect love who leads us to place our trust in him: our true rest. Waters in Hebrew: resting place. This is a place free of fear and worry.Psalm 23:3-weary soul is human need; life is drained out of us. David found that God restores the soul.Righteousness-sheep would circle their way up the hills to go up higher; theyeventually form a path that keeps leading them up higher-to safer ground.This is called “circular paths of righteousness.Each step we take, following Jesus, leads us up higher to a new place: one ofsafety.Psalm 23:4-David aware of the Lord with him, the key to his provision. Joshua1:5-9. David turns to praise: “You are with me....”Psalm 23:5-oil is Holy Spirit: his power and blessing; can be seen as the awareness of being children of God through baptism and confirmation: two different kinds of anointings. David talks about “empowered” or strengthening. Oil symbolizes abundance and joy.Psalm 23:6-Mercy is unfailing, steadfast: his covenant love with us. This in NT is grace. See John 1:16-17.in this psalm appeals to you?about this psalm would form the heart of a “giant-killer?”3. Take time to pray over each verse in this psalm. Let the Lord reveal Himself to you.

Psalm 91: Dwelling with the Lord I. Psalm 91: a psalm all about abiding with the LordA. The psalm speaks of joining oneself more closely to God to receive his help and support.B. Vv. 1-2: Titles of God reveal his character and promises1. Yahweh -personal name of the Lord2. Elyon-most high3. Shaddai-the almightyC. Shelter1.Christ is our shelter. He overshadows us with his love.2. Abides-to keep coming back to dwell there. D. God most high. 1. Psalmist makes a key distinction because there were other competing gods, Powers and demonic powers. Ie. Ex. 15 2. Abide-John 15. To put down roots. This means establishing a healthy Relationship with God in one’s private time.II. The Promise vv. 3-4A. Deliver-one is being hunted down and we are delivered from the hunter.Reference to demonic spirits that can cause chaos.See Mark 16:15-20.B. Pestilence-plagues and locusts that destroy; see Joel 1:4C. V. 4-cover-illustrating a mother eagle covering her babies with her largeOutstretched winds. “He will rescue you..” or We can’t be touched.III. VV. 5-8: No room for fear.A. No room for fear because of the protection of the Lord.1. So overwhelming is the Lord’s intervention: God is for the person whoAbides with Him.2. Lord is my refuge: hedge of protection3. Angels -guardians but also a personal touch of the Lord’s presenceAccompanying, defending and preserving us.B. Vv.14-16. Intimacy with the Lord1. Now, in the psalm, the Lord speaks to the psalmist.2. “I will raise him up to a high, secure place..”3. The binding covenant -a person loves the Lord, lives by His word,Calls upon him: He will surely answer and deliver the person whenThey are in trouble and times of adversity. Reflection:1. Psalm 91 is based on “abiding” with the Lord. How would you evaluate your quiet time with the Lord?2. The nature of the Lord is “Most high”. Why is the character of the Lord significant for us to be aware of in times of adversity?3. What is the basis of living with “no room for fear”?

The New Creation Key Scriptures: 2 Cor. 5:17-18; 1John 5: 1,4. I. You are a new creation. See Eph. 1:16-23; 2:1-10.A. Take the new testament seriously.B. Act as though the word of God is true.II. All things are possible to the new creation.A. All things are possible to God and we are born of God.B. Through the waters of baptism, we are born again to new life.Jesus is the Vine; we joined to Him in baptism.C. The one who realizes they are born to new life, realizes they live under a new leader: Jesus. They go from living under the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light: Jesus. III. Become God-inside minded.A. The Greater One dwells within.1. We are sons and daughters of the Father. Rm. 8:14-172. We are part of God’s family.B. How we understand ourselves will determine how we see our life-situations.1. We tend to see our life as:a. Trouble-mindedb. Always lack-mindedc. Inferior-mindedd. Weakness-minded2. We change our way of “seeing” our life situations by “seeing” who lives in us: The Greater One.3. Reflecting on God’s word builds in us authority over how we see ourselves. “Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua),4 and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word." (Catechism 1213).Reflection:1. Why do you think you or others tend to see life through “trouble-minded” perspective?2. What would it take to see life’s challenging situations through being “God-inside” minded?3. What does it mean to you to say “the Greater One” dwells in me?

Living free of anxiousness, part 3: Casting all our cares on the Lord I. Living free of anxiousness means learning to live by turning things over to the Lord.A. 1 Pt. 5:71. Cares-anxieties; worries of daily life.2. Peter talks about being humble (v. 5-6), meaning, recognizing our need for the Lord.3. Why can we be humble? We have a Father who cares for us lovingly. He provides for our special and daily needs.4. We can give our anxieties to Him because of who He is to us: our Father and we as his sons and daughters.B. 1Pt. 1:231. Peter writes in the context of the Father giving his Son Jesus as the precious Lamb whose blood was poured out for our deliverance from sin. (see vv. 1-19)2. Peter wants us to know with assurance and confidence the commitment of God to our salvation and our lives.3. So (v. 23) we need to plant the word of God in our heart. The Holy Spirit activates the word of God so he can build trust and faith in us.4. Without the planting, there is nothing to activate. With the planting of the word of God, the Holy Spirit stirs in us and births in us faith and trust in the Lord.C. Psalm 91:1-31. Almighty-Shadday-50 times in Old Testament; It is the name revealed to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.2. It means everlasting one; mighty one; one who can’t be conquered; all sufficient one; capable of meeting the needs of his people.3. Refuge (v. 1-2)-shelter; place of trust; a shelter from the heat;See Isa. 25:4.4. Plagues-see Joel.1:4. Disease; locusts;II. How do we apply this?A. Through prayer we come humbly.1. We acknowledge our need of the Lord.2. We recognize He is our Father: committed to our care.3. We see that Jesus is God’s precious Lamb whose very blood sacrifice indicates the depth of God’s commitment to us.4. We are his sons and daughters. Members of His family.5. We give him thanksgiving. Practice giving thanks.6. We ask in prayer for what we have need of. “Give us this day…”B. We plant the word of God in our hearts and minds.1. Take time to meditate on these passages.2. Ask the Holy Spirit to “write” them on your heart.3. Speak them out loud: what we “hear” with this sense goes deeper into us.4. Memorize a passage of Scripture. Recall it through the day. Reflection:1. What are the anxieties “distracting” your life right now?2. How confident are you in the Father’s love for you? How do you know? Where do you go to find out?3. How much time are you spending in the word of God? How much “planting” are you doing?

Living free of Anxiousness, week 2: Overcoming worry I. Text: Mt. 6:25-34A. Context: is the Sermon on the Mount-Jesus’ blueprint for happiness.1. Mt. 6 is Jesus teaching his disciples about attitudes towards the basic necessities of life.2. He teaches that how one sees these necessities will determine whether the disciple lives in the fulfillment of the beatitudes (Mt. 5:1-12) which is Jesus’ blueprint for happiness.3. Our need for security is great. Jesus addresses this.B. Worry is mentioned 5 times.1. Worry- a distraction; preoccupation with things that causes anxiety.This brings stress and pressure into one’s life.2. Jesus points to the care of the heavenly Father. Remember he is “our Father who art in heaven” meaning his authority over situations on earth.3. Worry also reveals misplaced affections. Anxiety indicates the fear of loss and being diminished in some way.4. Catherine of Siena (from the Dialogues):  “Why do you not put your trust in me your Creator? Because your trust is in yourselves. Am I not faithful and loyal to you? Of course I am. . . . But it seems they do not believe that I am powerful enough to help them, or strong enough to aid and defend them against their enemies, or wise enough to enlighten their understanding….”C. Examples of nature1. Jesus uses several examples of nature. Pointing to the Father’s care for such elements of life, ie. Birds, grass, etc..2. So how much more of worth are you? 3. Your worth is proven by the cross: Jesus’ sacrifice for you. See Romans 8:32.II. How do we live free of worry?A. Immerse your mind and heart in the word of God in Scripture.1. Read the stories of Jesus acting in the lives of people. This build faith in who he is. Remember: Jesus reveals the Father. So how he is: what he does and speaks reveals the Father.2. Hear the stories in other’s lives of God acting: both past and present. Stories like this build up our confidence in God’s provision.3. Use your speech to “declare” the promises of God. This influences the mind’s thoughts.4. Recall in your life when the Lord acted and intervened and provided. Do you think he will do it only once?B. Remember:1. You were not wired to worry; but wired to trust your Creator who made you in love; redeemed you in mercy.2. You are worth more than the birds of the air and the lilies. This is evident by the sacrifice of Jesus for you on the cross.3. Thanksgiving and praise of who your heavenly Father is for you builds faith. Reflection:1. What does worry do to you? Physically? Mentally? Relationally? Spiritually?2. Why is the word of God a remedy to worry?3. Where in your life now do you need to apply the promises of God vs. worry?

Living Free of anxiousness and fear, part 1: LIVING IN JOYScripture Phil. 4:4-8. I. IntroductionA. Paul writes the letter to Philippians to thank them for being kind to him in financial need. They gave a substantial gift. He also writes the letter to deal with issues of unity in the community. There were divisions in the community.B. Paul writes his letter from his first imprisonment in Rome. This letter is full of tenderness and affection for the Christians.C. The content deals with the grounds for Christian joy. Joy that is independent of the circumstances we find ourselves in. Essential to this joy is the confidence that Jesus is Lord. Christ alone is the source and ground of joy. It is based on the experience of the power of the risen Christ. II. PHIL. 4:4-5A. Vv.4-5. Paul commands the Christian to “rejoice”. Why is that? For Paul, the ground of joy comes from knowing the Lord; developing confidence in him. Knowing his power and wisdom and love for us.B. Vv. 5-gentleness (some translations: forbearance). Considerate; moderate; fair; it implies a way of dealing with others rooted in confidence in the Lord.The Lord is near: can mean the Lord is coming back: his 2nd coming. But also means the Lord is close to you. He lives in you. Mt. 28: Jesus said “I will never leave or forsake you.” We say the “Lord is with you” meaning His power and wisdom and character and attributes are “there” to you. III. Phil. 4: 6.A. V. 6. Anxiousness or worry-to be in two minds; going in two different directions.“But in every situation…” by prayer and petition-prayer here is an earnestness or intenseness; it is not based on “many” words but intenseness of the heart; prayer transfers the burden of the soul to the Lord;1. Prayer opens the gateway to peace.2. Thanksgiving-expresses confidence in the Lord and who he is for us; who we are to him. IV. Phil. 4:7.A. The peace of God- this is a sense of well being grounded in the knowledge and experience of the Lord for his people; one can still have conflict raging around us but live in peace and joy.B. Paul says this peace will “guard” the heart and mind-it is like a Roman sentry guarding one from the enemy. V. Phil. 4:8A. What we focus on matters? Paul exhorts us to think on these things…1. What is noble-worthy of respect2. Right-moral excellence3. Pure-clean, holy,4. Lovely and admirable-use of words that are full of graciousness5. Excellent or praiseworthy (some translations say “good report)-remembering the great deeds of the Lord; His acts of kindness and power;VI. Reflection1. If joy is grounded in the knowing the Lord, what does this mean about establishing a personal relationship with Him?2. Reflect on how prayer is so critical to the joy and peace we need.3. How can you integrate more prayer in your life? What changes in the schedule do you need to make?4. How does Bible reading and study help you to come to know the Lord and be grounded in Him?5. How can you integrate more of bible reading and study into your life?6. Where in your life now, do you need more joy?

Ruth, Chapter three: The Story of our RedemptionIntroduction to Chapter 3Naomi arranges Ruth to meet Boaz.1. Securemarriageforredemptiveprovision.2. Boazisthesourcetosolvealltheirproblems.PropertyNearestrelativeattainsthepropertyofNaomi’sdeceased husband.SeeDt25:5-10Ruth 3: 1-4(0ver)Seeking a marriage is to seek a home-a place of security.Home:restingplace,security,stability.Naomigaveherstrictinstructions.a. Riskyandboldmove.b. Reputationsatstake.RepentanceiskeytoapproachingChrist.Symbolizedinwashing,anointingandbettersclothing.Repentance:metanoia-changeofdirection.See Mt. 11:25-29Marriageproposal 1. Uncoverfeetissignofservice 2. GarmentoverRuthisproposalofmarriage 3. Ruthis“loosing”herlife...seeMt.16:25Ruth 3: 5-15Obedience is key1. Ruthneededtosay“yes”toNaomi’splan.2. ObedienceiskeytofollowingJesus.SeeMt.7:21.God tells us how to be redeemed.Cometohiminobedience.Cometohimwithrepentance.Cometothefootofthecross(symbolizedinRuthatfeetofBoaz)Marriage is a proposal.Rooted in the covenant of God with Israel.See Rm. 3:23-25.See Catechism #145, 148; 1611-1612; 2207-2208.D. Ruth 3:16-18. 1. RuthsharesallthiswithNaomi.NaomiisawitnesstoLord’swork in Ruth. 2. RuthisatestimonytoGod’spromises.Reflection.NaomiandRuthwereboldintheirplan.Whereis“boldness”neededinyour life?HowisthenuptialcovenantofGodwithIsraelsymbolicofChristwiththechurch? How do the sacraments reflect this nuptial covenant?Boaziskinsman-redeemerforRuth:rescuingheroutofdestitution.Howdoes Christ’s work at the cross rescue us? What is our true destitution?NaomiwitnessestotheLord’spromisesinRuth’slife.Whatkindofwitnesscan you give to the Lord working in your life, fulfilling His promises in your life?

Ruth session 4, chapter 4Ruth 4:1-10The meetingBoaz meets are the city gates: key place of meeting for passing of laws commerce.Gates in ancient world were a place of protection from enemiesBoaz joins the elders: well respected men of the community.Boaz’s sacrificial love for Ruth will make it possible to redeem Ruth. See 2Cor.5:17Sandal-sealing of the deal; also, Boaz takes possession of the land.Ruth 4:11-22The people prayed for Ruth and Boaz: grace moved them to intercede.The child born to Ruth is a child of destiny.The Lord provided a redeemer for Naomi and Ruth. Christ is the redeemerprovided for the world.Naomi would be restored after her losses. She too becomes a new creation.Genealogy of this family line reminds us of the time of Boaz was a time of the Judges: a time of corruption and moral depravity. But this story shows us God has a plan and is at work.Boaz’s role:Prefigures Christ as kinsmen-redeemerBoaz purchases the land to redeem the members of his brother’s household.Christ’s ministry set free the captives. See Lk. 4:16-21.Boaz brings Ruth into the family as a daughter of Israel: inherited of the blessingsof the covenant. Through the passion, death, resurrection of Jesus Christ and the outpouring of the Spirit-we become sons and daughters of the Father: heirs of God, co-heirs of Christ.Boaz takes Ruth as his wife; Christ takes the Church as his bride.See the Catechism of the Church: #437; 1821; 227.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Why did Boaz choose to meet at the city gates with the Elders?The next of kin chose not to take the land. Why? What other person in the Book of Ruthreflects this man’s character?The blessings upon the marriage of Boaz and Ruth included references to Leah andRachel. Why?When have you seen obedience to the will of God in your life bear fruit in your life?“Few souls understand what God would accomplish in them if they were to abandon themselves unreservedly to Him and if they were to allow his grace to hold them accordingly.” St. Ignatius of Loyola

Ruth chapter 2: Boaz, Kinsmen-Redeemer I. 2: 1-4 A. Boaz, name means swiftness. His role emerges as significant for Ruth. 1. A type of redeemer 2. Points to Christ 3. He is gracious, liberal in is giving, protective B. Ruth’s life is prepared for by the Lord. She goes into Boaz’s field -a step of her life the Lord prepared for her. II. 2: 5-9 A. Ruth is without husband, protection, provision 1. Boaz blesses the Lord and the workers: blessing in a time of darkness in Israel. 2. As a type of redeemer, Boaz, hears the plight of Ruth. 3. He acts as her protector. III. 2:10-14 A. Ruth bows to Boaz in light of his kindness. Her humility is the foundation for such blessing. B. The “table” she comes to is Boaz providing, honoring her. The table of communion, eucharist, is a table of Lord providing for his own. IV. 2:15-23 A. Dialogue of Naomi and Ruth: 1. This dialogue is redemptive for both of them 2. They “review” the acts of kindness of Lord for them 3. Naomi concludes it is “good” for Ruth to do this. This is a clear recognition of Lord at work, grace abounds. Reflection: 1. Where in your life is “grace” at work? List them on paper -at least 5-10 situations. What does this tell you about the Lord? 2. Boaz is a redeemer of types. How does he redeem Ruth’s situation? Boaz points to Christ: how does Christ redeem your life situations? 3. Israel was concerned for the poor. In Boaz, we see a demonstration of that kindness and concern. How does the church care for the poor today? How does every believer do that?

Ruth-the Story of our redemption I. Theme: God’s sovereign intervention as deliverer and redeemer. Ruth is written in the era of the Judges of Israel. This is a time of spiritual and moral darkness. The Book is about God’s mercy that sustains us. A. 1:1-5: The story begins in a famine: spiritual reflection of the devastation of the time in people’s hearts. Bethlehem-house of bread- is without bread: an irony. B. 1:6-18: The death of Naomi’s husband and sons, while devasting for her, is also reflecting the spiritual desolation of Israel, people of the covenant. C. Naomi persuades her daughter-in-laws, both Moabite women, to go back to their homeland (She goes back to Israel). There, they will find husbands, family and children. 1. Vv.15-18-Ruth uses the language of covenant to express her longing to go with Naomi. Ruth is experiencing a type of conversion, a turning from darkness to the light of the covenant of Yahweh with his people. D. Naomi returns with bitterness of all that has happened to her. Yet, in her midst, is Ruth-the Moabite. Ruth symbolizes the redemption that awaits not just her, but Naomi as well. 1. Bethlehem will once again be “house of bread” for both of them. 2. The walls of racial divides will fall down in the conversion and redemption. See Eph. 2:12 and Gal. 3:28. 3. Ruth surrenders all rights, all her past, her family, her godseverything-to be devoted to Naomi. See Jesus in Mt. 10:34-39. Questions for reflection: 1. Do you feel the Gospel of Christ is redemptive in the sense of healing division? Where have you seen this? 2. Why is covenant significant to Ruth? What is she willing to “pay the cost” for it? How does this relate to Jesus in Mt. 10:34-37. 3. Where in your life is the Gospel yet to “conquer” the parts of your heart opposed to the Lord? 4. How is the Gospel redemptive of our “bitter” experiences?

The Ultimate Lifestyle II

The Ultimate Lifestyle 1

The Battle Within

A problem we can't solve

Saving Grace

Return to Unity

Installment, Guarantee, Pledge

Returning to First Love

Mrs. Pat Naunton