Praying we all make wise decisions

My reflection is based out of the story of the prodigal son. The prodigal's problems started while he was still at his fathers house. He didn't have an honest talk with his dad about what was going on in his mind or heart. He also didn't go to his brother for any kind of counsel.

All his decisions were made alone with just his own understanding. He was prideful, defiant and selfish. Decisions made out of these feelings are never wise.

The prodigal's mind has left his family even while he was still in the same house. The father accepted his son's decision, gave him what was his and watched him leave.

The prodigal was no longer part of the household, or considered a son, because he asked it to be that way. His actions showed he followed only his desires, despising responsibility and accountability.

Thanks to a crisis moment and that his brain could still remember his dad's mercy, he "came to his senses".

We may not like it but evil is everywhere. We must not allow it in our hearts or households. Evil tries to make good seem bad and bad seem good. Unless we know how to test what is true and good, we will always be deceived.

The prodigal repented, left his selfish ways and humbled himself in front of the dad he abandoned.

Once again, his dad accepted his son's decision. But this decision was a wiser one, made with honesty of the heart, humbleness of mind and returning to what he knew was good.

My prayer is that the USA returns to what we know is true and good; and we leave what is destructive and bad. God will accept what we decide. We will either benefit from wise decisions or perish from unwise ones.

Preparing my heart for marriage

I See Smiles


I see my brother's arm around mine as I walk down the aisle.

The aisle where I miss dad but I know he is watching.

He sees me walk and smiles from heaven.


I see the flowers next to the altar as I walk down the aisle.

The aisle where at its end my current life changes.

It changes through sacrifice.


I see the sacrificial cross of Christ as I walk down the aisle.

The aisle is lit by the cross' bright light.

It illumines and shows me I'm not alone.


I see the people sitting on the pews as I walk down the aisle.

The aisle is clear and they sit as my witnesses.

They smile and pledge to pray for me.


I see my husband-to-be standing strong as I walk down the aisle.

The aisle he has already walked down and taken his place.

His place is next to me forever.


I see Christ with arms held out as we both walk up to the altar.

The altar where the old dies and the new begins.

Christ smiles and so do we.


by KT
7/22/2010