Day 147 – Temple Worship
Thoughts and Reflection In today’s reading, we learn how God responds to Solomon’s prayer of dedication to the Temple. God demonstrates the power of his presence by sending fire down from heaven. The Temple is essential because the presence of the Lord will be there and it is where the people will worship. We must…
Day 146 – The Universal Church
Thoughts and Reflection In today’s reading we learn that Solomon delegates his authority by selecting twelve men to serve as leaders in Israel. As Catholics we can see ourselves as members of the universal Church and at other times we might think in territorial ways. While we belong to our parishes, we always need to…
Day 145 – Solomon Builds the Temple
Thoughts and Reflection Today in the readings we learn the great work from Solomon’s life – building the holy temple of the Lord. The Levites carry the Ark of the Covenant into the sanctuary of the Temple. The Lord honors this event and a cloud of glory fills the space. Solomon prays for wisdom at…
Kid Approved – Italian Sausage Pasta
This recipe has been a work in progress. After two tries, I have made it our own and something the kids say is the best they ever had! It does take a bit to make, especially when you have to reduce the sauce down. So plan ahead. Don’t have rigatoni in your pantry? Any pasta…
Day 144 – David’s Last Words
Thoughts and Reflection Today in our readings we learn about David’s final words to Solomon. He transfers his hard-earned wisdom to his son. He tells him that people will seek to get close to him and will try to take advantage of him. Children pay more attention to the example we set than the advice…
Day 143 – Solomon Asks for Wisdom
Thoughts and Reflection In today’s reading we learn David is nearing the end of life. Adonijah, one of David’s sons, is very popular amongst the people and declares himself king. Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, goes to David and tells him this happened. David is a success in every area of his life except within his own…
Day 142 – Whole and Joyful Hearts
Thoughts and Reflection In today’s reading, we learn that David used a census to assert ownership over God’s people. Before the Lord orders a census to help save his people. When he recognizes his sin, David is humbled and opens his heart to being converted. In repentance, he offers sacrifice to the Lord on behalf…
Day 141 – The Life of David
Thoughts and Reflections In today’s readings we learn that David hands over the reins over to Solomon. Solomon starts strong but will not end strong. He starts out with great wisdom, but he will eventually waste his wisdom and turn his back to the Lord. The Lord does not turn his back on his people…
Day 140 – David’s Prayer of Thanksgiving
Thoughts and Reflection In today’s reading, we learn that we will soon transition from the life of David to his son Solomon. David reflects on his life and proclaims that the Lord saved him because he loves him. He looks back on his life and rejoices despite all his failures. We need to look back…
Day 139 – Reparation to the Gibeonites
Thoughts and Reflection In today’s reading, we learn about the division of the gatekeepers for the Temple area. This is seen as a high honor to those who are allowed to guard the doors of the Temple. Some holy monks and religious folks served as porters of their monasteries. They were tasked with remaining by…