devotions from My Imitation of Christ (vol. 1)

During Lent this year, our family read My Imitation of Christ. We have several versions of it, but my favorite is this box set as shown below.

We set aside a time after supper during the week, to read from it aloud, with each family member taking a turn. My kids participated, but I could tell that it was not the highlight of their day, if you know what I mean. We managed to get through the entire book for Lent, and even though my children didn't seem too enthusiastic about this exercise at the time, it is something that they understand when the book comes up in discussion and be a part of that discussion.

There were many passages within the book that resonated with me, so I will be including them here whenever possible. One of those passages is about solitude and silence.

“Seek a proper time to retire into thyself, and often think of the benefits of God.

Let curiosities alone.” (from My Imitation of Christ)

In our busy modern world with nonstop distractions at our fingertips, it is more important than ever before to find a time to reflect on God and grow our interior life. It is easy to lose track of it all, and before you know it, you’re astray. This passage was a great reminder for me to take the time each day to do this.

I must admit that I’m not always successful at doing this each day, but on days that I do take the time for this, I feel better. It is a great way to start the day. It is easy to let our hectic lives dictate how we live, but do not let that happen. Take the time to pray and to reflect on God.

Gone Fishing

It’s summer, and school is out… Have a good summer and be safe! As always, pray unceasingly.

Of all the -isms ...

Of all the -isms in our culture today, this one is often ignored and up there with the most nefarious. I’m talking about nepotism. This is because it is so stealthy. It is not obvious. You never know who is related to whom, either by blood or by marriage. Unfortunately, you don’t get to choose who your family are. The treachery within family is stuff of legends and timeless novels. At the same time, the benefits of some families just keep on giving, bootstraps not needed at all, just look for the red carpet treatment. When it comes to nepotism, there are tell-tale signs over time, emphasis on time. There are certain people who seem to get away with everything. Rules for you but not for them. Some of these people aren’t qualified for the job, and yet they have been promoted countless times to the top just like that. Then there are some people who haven't done much and yet they’re bestowed with awards and recognitions nonstop just for showing up. Meanwhile, the rest of us are...

What’s Cooking Vol. 4: Garlic Bread

This is a side. It’s really nothing, but it’s one of our favorite no meat dishes, so I thought I’d share this as an idea for a side during Lent. What you need: - bread - butter - garlic seasoning - shredded Parmesan cheese If you have a loaf of bread, it’s even better. It works with everyday sliced bread as shown in the image above. Melt the butter in the microwave until it is soft enough to mix but not liquid. It doesn’t take long, like several seconds. The amount of butter varies depending on the bread and how much parmesan you’d like. Mix the butter with garlic seasoning and the shredded parmesan cheese. Spread it on the bread and put it in the oven or toaster oven. Baking time will vary depending on how toasted you like your bread. Bake until the butter is melted into the bread or until the parmesan cheese is slightly toasted. There are many garlic seasonings out there, but this Weber one is my favorite, not salty, just herbs and garlic. The same goes for the s...

buffalo journeys

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