Written by George Washington on June 8, 1783, the president’s prayer for the United States is read aloud each day at Mount Vernon’s public wreath laying ceremony. The words (and spellings) are his own. It is every bit as appropriate today as it was then. “I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have the United States in his holy protection, that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience... Read more
We Have Our Own Ideas… about how our lives should play out. We decide in advance where we should work, who we should marry, where we should live and how many kids we’ll have. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but things rarely work out exactly the way we planned. St. Paul always wanted to visit Rome to share the Good News and strengthen the faith of those who lived there: For I long to see you, that I may... Read more
Can’t Find The Time To Pray? Sometimes it’s difficult to find time to pray. And even if you do have the time, it can be challenging to get away to a quiet place. Believe it or not, Jesus faced the same challenge. I wrote about it in my book – Stop Worrying & Start Living (2016, Dynamic Catholic). If you just can’t find the time to pray, take a look at what Jesus did. You might want to follow his... Read more
Can Prayer Change God’s Mind? Let’s suppose you want something to happen and the odds aren’t good. For instance, you want a certain job, but aren’t really qualified. Or maybe your husband has just been diagnosed with a serious illness and you can’t imagine how you would survive if he doesn’t recover. How about the situation where you’re “in love” with a woman at the office and want to ask her out on a date, but you think she’s out... Read more
Jesus is calling you to follow him. Really, he is. But, even though he is all powerful, he won’t force you to do it. In the readings from today’s Mass, we see examples of several people who were invited to follow the Lord. Some said “yes” and others said “no”. Here are a few things to consider as you look at the readings. Jesus Is Calling You The Lord is calling you to follow him on the path that will... Read more
Why Am I So Miserable? How would you like to be filled with joy from the minute you wake up until it’s time to go to bed? Here’s some good news. You already are! When we are baptized, the Holy Spirit comes to live in us. And, as we’ve discussed before, joy is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, the joy you’re looking for is already inside of you! I know what you’re thinking. If it’s there,... Read more
The idea of Jesus as the Good Shepherd who cares for his sheep can be very comforting, especially if you’re struggling to feel his presence. I blogged about it yesterday on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and I received many comments from those who were touched by the post. I discussed it in greater detail on this week’s episode of The Gary Zimak Show. Give it a listen (using the player below), especially if you’re feeling lost... Read more
Jesus Doesn’t Really Care About Me, Does He? From time to time, we all get the feeling that Jesus doesn’t care about us. We’ve heard the stories of his encounters with the sick and hopeless people in the Bible, but this is a different. We’re not Zacchaeus or Mary Magdalene and Jesus is no longer walking the face of the earth. Whether it’s because of an unanswered prayer or a feeling of hopelessness, we sometimes get the idea that Jesus... Read more
Helping others to break free from worry is the main focus of my writing and speaking ministry. I have struggled with anxiety for many years, but have experienced the healing power of Jesus Christ. As a result, I am passionate about sharing the “Good News” with my fellow worriers. With the Lord’s help, it is possible to live peacefully, even if you tend to be anxious like me. St. Paul: “Don’t Worry. Pray Instead!” In my parish missions, talks and... Read more
Looking For Happiness? Contrary to popular opinion, the things of the world will not make you happy. Sure, maybe an expensive meal or a new car will make you feel good for a while, but it won’t last. God is the only true, lasting source of happiness. Therefore, if you are looking for happiness, you better be seeking God. Unfortunately, you can’t chase after God and material things at the same time. Something has to give. You Can’t Have It... Read more
Be Not Afraid with Gary Zimak
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