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Listening To Mary’s Voice – Part 2 (Humility)

Posted on January 23, 2012 by Gary Zimak

As we continue with Part 2 of a 7 Part series on Mary’s words in Scripture, I’ll be taking a look at a powerful statement made by Mary to the angel Gabriel.? Last time we focused on Mary’s question to the angel after learning that she had been chosen to be the mother of the Savior.? Having made a vow of virginity, Mary was confused as to how God’s will could be fulfilled.? She didn’t doubt that it could happen (unlike Zechariah, who flat out didn’t believe that his wife could become pregnant), she just wanted to know how it would happen so that she wouldn’t have to break her prior vow of virginity.? Mary sought to understand God’s will.? Gabriel answered her question by explaining that it would come about by the power of the Holy Spirit.? He also informed her that her elderly relative, Elizabeth, is now sixth months pregnant.? Then Gabriel gave Mary a great takeaway from their dialog when he stated that “nothing will be impossible for God” (Luke 1:37). Mary’s response to all of this news?

“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord” (Luke 1:38)

Because many of us are very familiar with Mary’s statement, we run the risk of overlooking how profound it actually is.? These eight words give us a great insight into Mary’s view of herself.? In this statement, she is saying to God, “I am your humble servant, use me in any way that you wish”.? Unlike many of us, she fully understood that she was merely a creature and that the Lord was her Master.? According to the dictionary, a handmaid is “a servant who serves a useful, but subordinate purpose”.? When Mary refers to herself as a “handmaid”, she is professing her humility.? Despite just having been told that she will be the vessel used to deliver the Savior to the world, Mary referred to herself as a servant.? This profession gives us a glimpse into Mary’s interior attitude and provides an example that is worthy of our emulation.? In his book “The Glories Of Mary”, St. Alphonsus Liguori stated that the first effect of humility is a lowly opinion of oneself.? Even though Mary was aware of her sinlessness, she understood that it was all due to God’s grace.? How important is humility?? St. Bernard of Clairvaux observed that “humility is the foundation and guardian of the virtues”.? More importantly, Jesus instructed us to “learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart” (Mt 11:29).

Without humility, it is impossible for us to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.? Unfortunately, humility is also one of the most difficult virtues to acquire.? As evidence, look at how many times we question events that occur in our lives.? Why is God allowing this to happen to me?? We pray “Thy Will be done” and, at the same time, provide the Lord with a list of acceptable answers to our prayers.? Some even go as far as to disobey teachings of the Church because “they don’t agree with them.”? These positions are all incompatible with the virtue of humility and illustrate a serious misunderstanding of who’s the Creator and who’s the creature!? Although it can be a struggle, we can become more humble by asking for the Lord’s help through Mary’s intercession.? After all, who better to ask then someone who viewed herself as nothing more than the Lord’s servant?

“If you should ask me what are the ways of God, I would tell you that the first is humility, the second is humility, and the third is still humility.? Not that there are no other precepts to give, but if humility does not precede all that we do, our efforts are fruitless.” (St. Augustine)

Next Time: “May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

Posted in Blessed Mother, Listening To Mary's Voice, Marian, Mary | 1 Comment

Obama Reaffirms His Commitment To Abortion

Posted on January 22, 2012 by Gary Zimak

As we mark the 39^th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we must remember that this Supreme Court decision not only protects a woman?s health and reproductive freedom, but also affirms a broader principle: that government should not intrude on private family matters.? I remain committed to protecting a woman?s right to choose and this fundamental constitutional right.? While this is a sensitive and often divisive issue- no matter what our views, we must stay united in our determination to prevent unintended pregnancies, support pregnant woman and mothers, reduce the need for abortion, encourage healthy relationships, and promote adoption. ?And as we remember this historic anniversary, we must also continue our efforts to ensure that our daughters have the same rights, freedoms, and opportunities as our sons to fulfill their dreams. (President Barack Obama, January 22, 2012)

In order to commemorate the 39th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court Decision that legalized abortion in the United States (and has allowed for 54 million abortions), United States President Barack Obama released a statement in which he emphasized that he remains “committed to protecting a woman’s right to choose” to murder her child and refers to this act of murder as a “fundamental constitutional right”.? In an attempt to make this horrific act more palatable, Mr. Obama then talks about the need to “reduce the need” for murdering the unborn (DUH!), “prevent unintended pregnancies” (as long as it’s done without promoting abstinence), “support pregnant women” (I totally agree with him on this point) and “promote adoption” (Amen!).? He then closes by pledging to “continue our efforts to ensure that our daughters have the same rights, freedoms, and opportunities as our sons to fulfill their dreams”.? Let’s see if I understand… in order for our daughters to be able to fulfill their dreams, they must retain the right to freely murder their children (????????).

As we commemorate this tragic anniversary,? here are a few of my suggestions:

1. Pray daily for an end to abortion.

2. Don’t fall for the “choice” and “reproductive rights” rhetoric and think about what the pro-abortion supporters are actually saying.? They are promoting the murder of children!

3. If you are Catholic, you must ALWAYS vote for life!? Please etch this message from Mr. Obama in your memory and remember this in November.? Also, remind your fellow parishioners who have Obama bumper stickers on their cars of what the Church teaches!

4.? Pray for Obama’s conversion to the pro-life camp.? I am not judging his motives, but his position is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE! He is promoting murder as a “fundamental right”.

5. Pray daily for God’s mercy on the United States and on the world…We need it!

6.? Pray daily that more people realize that this issue is more important than how much income tax they pay.

You can read more about the story here.

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A Message From Gary…

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Gary Zimak

My Friends,

Following The Truth was founded in 2008 and has grown from a simple website to a full-fledged Catholic evangelization apostolate. In the past 3 years, I’ve been able to expand my outreach to include Facebook, Twitter, a nightly radio program on BlogTalkRadio, numerous blog posts and regular appearances on EWTN Radio. During that time, I was able to fund all of these activities myself and never accepted any donations.

After several years of feeling the call to become a full time Catholic lay evangelist, I did just that on January 9, 2012 (the feast of the Baptism of the Lord). Although this move was brought about due to the fact that I was laid off from my day job, I view it as answered prayer.? While it’s frightening to “step out of the boat”, I believe that it’s what the Lord is calling me to do.

Now that Following The Truth is a full time apostolate, I must do something that I’m not especially comfortable doing. In order to provide for my family and to continue the Lord’s work, I’d like to ask you to prayerfully consider becoming a monthly supporter or making a one time donation to Following The Truth. Your contribution, no matter what the amount, is essential to the survival of Following The Truth. While it would greatly help me to acquire a core group of monthly donors, I would also appreciate any one time donation you may be able to make.

In return, I promise to give you even more of what you’ve come to expect with Following The Truth.? Now that I’m working for the Lord on a full time basis, I can devote more time proclaiming the “Good News” of the Catholic Faith!? Look for an expanded nightly radio show, more talks at churches and conferences and the release of additional books (my first book, A Worrier’s Guide To The Bible is complete and will be released by Liguori Publications in a few months).? Not to mention the “ever popular” daily Catholic Trivia Challenge on my Facebook fan page!

If you feel that my work has helped you and would like to see it continue, you can donate securely using the PayPal buttons at the right of this page.? Although your donations are NOT tax deductible (I do not have non-profit, tax exempt status), they are much needed and GREATLY appreciated.? If you are unable to contribute financially (I fully understand that times are tough), I’d ask you to pray for me, my family and my work with Following The Truth.? I remain firmly convinced that the “Good News” of the Catholic Faith MUST continue to be boldly proclaimed in the world today!

Thank you for your attention. I won’t make a habit of begging for money and will only do it when necessary. I promise to keep you all in my daily prayers, especially at Mass, in my rosary and before the Blessed Sacrament.? If you have any questions or concerns, please email me.

Thank you and God Bless,
Gary

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This Week On Following The Truth Radio…

Posted on January 16, 2012 by Gary Zimak

The Following The Truth radio show with Gary Zimak airs Monday-Friday at 8 PM Eastern on BlogTalkRadio (podcasts are available free of charge in the BlogTalkRadio archives and iTunes).

Here’s the lineup for this week’s programs (1/16/12 – 1/20/12):

Monday: Understanding The Holy Spirit (Part 2) – Mondays on Following The Truth are dedicated to discussing “What Catholics Really Believe”, as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.??Join Catholic lay evangelist Gary Zimak as he continues his discussion of the role of the Holy Spirit, as presented in the Catechism.? Often a source of confusion, the role of the Holy Spirit can be extremely important to us as Christians.? Tune in and let’s explore the Holy Spirit in detail!

Tuesday: Living Joyfully – The Bible tells us to “Rejoice always” (1 Thessalonians 5:16) and “Do not worry about your life” (Matthew 6:25), but it’s often easier said than done. Join Catholic lay evangelist Gary Zimak as he explores ways to be joyful, even in the midst of turmoil.? How can this be done?? By focusing on the Lord!? Gary will use Sacred Scripture, the writings of the Saints and the teaching of the Church to highlight ways to live joyfully each day. Many of you are being asked to trust the Lord even when it doesn’t make sense. Tune in as we look at some ways to be joyful and trust in God’s plan for our lives!

Wednesday: Interior Conversion – Wednesdays on Following The Truth are dedicated to “Imitating Christ”.? Join Catholic lay evangelist Gary Zimak as he takes a look at one the all time great spiritual books, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis.? This week, Gary will look at the importance of interior conversion. As Christians, we are all called to imitate Christ.? While it sounds difficult, it’s by no means impossible.? Tune in for some practical advice and suggestions and see for yourself!

Thursday: Listening To Mary’s Voice (Confusion) – Thursday is Mother’s Day on Following The Truth and this week we’ll begin a 7 part series focusing on Mary’s words in Sacred Scripture.? Join Catholic lay evangelist Gary Zimak as he examines Mary’s words to the angel Gabriel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?? (Luke 1:34).? Just like many of us, Mary was confused about the details of her mission.? We can learn much from the spoken words of Mary.? Tune in for the next 7 Thursdays and let the Blessed Mother speak to you!

Friday: Responding To The Lord’s Call – Friday on Following The Truth is devoted to “Catholicism by the Book”.? Join Catholic lay evangelist Gary Zimak as he opens up the Bible and discusses the Mass readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time. Today’s readings are about responding to the Lord’s call. Don’t miss the chance to get better prepared to hear God’s voice in Sacred Scripture and respond to His commands!

Tune in and TELL A FRIEND!

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Listening To Mary’s Voice: Confusion

Posted on January 15, 2012 by Gary Zimak

We have been blessed with several Church-approved apparitions of the Blessed Mother throughout the years.? In each of these appearances, Mary has urged repentance and the importance of following Christ’s commands.? As we struggle to lead holy lives, wouldn’t it be nice if Mary could speak to us and give us the necessary encouragement to keep on the right path?? Fortunately, that is entirely possible and it can happen TODAY!? By opening up our Bibles, we can hear the Blessed Mother speak directly to us and help us to grow closer to her Son, Jesus.? Although Mary only spoke on four occasions in Sacred Scripture, each of her statements provides a wealth of information.? By meditating on her words TO EACH OF US, we can become more like her and grow closer to the Lord.? In this, the first of a seven-part series, we’ll be looking at her first recorded words in Scripture…

?How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?? (Luke 1:34)

After being told by the angel Gabriel that she has been chosen to be the Mother of the Savior, Mary is confused and asks a simple question.? Given the fact that she (like us) is not divine, there are times when she had questions about God’s will.? Even though she was sinless, Mary didn’t have all of the answers.? We see evidence of this a few verses earlier when (upon Gabriel’s arrival) she “pondered what sort of greeting this might be” (Lk 1:29).? The common belief of theologians throughout the years is that Mary was confused because she had consecrated her virginity to the Lord.? Although not the norm for married people, this practice was not unheard of in Mary’s time.? Always desiring to do what’s right, the sinless virgin proceeded on the course she thought was best…and then the angel appeared with some new information.

How many times are we confused about what God wants us to do?? We struggle to discern His will for our lives and we have questions.? We may feel the urge to take a more fulfilling job, but don’t know how we’ll survive on less pay.? We may feel the call to the priesthood or religious life, but are fearful of giving up the possibility of marriage and children.? We get the idea that maybe we should volunteer and help people, but we don’t know how.? As my own life illustrates, when the Lord calls us to do something, He doesn’t provide all of the details up front.

In addition to those instances requiring us to make a decision, sometimes we aren’t given a choice.? Rather, we are faced with an unexpected illness, devastating personal problems or financial difficulties.? Although these situations occur without our consent, we still may question why they are happening.? How will I survive?? What will I do?? Why is God letting this happen?

Mary’s words to the angel remind us that it’s OK to ask questions.? If you feel that God is asking you to do something, but you’re not sure how it’s possible, go ahead and ask Him for details.? Mary did.? If you’re carrying a heavy cross and can’t understand why, ask the Lord to enlighten you.? Unfortunately, I can’t promise that you’ll get the answer you want.? Instead, the Lord’s answer may be, “trust me”.? If that’s the case, you may be asked (like Mary) to go along with His plan without knowing all of the fine details.? If you have a difficult time doing that…join the club!? However, don’t ever forget that Mary can help you tremendously.? As someone who’s “been there, done that”, she knows exactly what you’re going through.? Turn to her and ask her to share some of her faith with you.? I can guarantee you that, as stated in the Memorare, “never was it known that anyone who fled to her protection, implored her help, or sought her intercession was left unaided.”

Next Time: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.” (Luke 1:38)

Posted in Blessed Mother, discernment, Listening To Mary's Voice, Marian, Mary | 3 Comments

Do Whatever He Tells You!

Posted on January 13, 2012 by Gary Zimak

A few nights ago on my nightly radio show, I discussed the Blessed Mother’s important role at the Wedding in Cana and the significance of her last recorded words in Scripture, “Do whatever He tells you”.? One of my listeners, Kathy Bowles, was so touched by the show that she (astonishingly) transcribed the entire broadcast!? Not wanting to let Kathy’s amazing effort work go to waste, I’d like to share it with all of you in the hope that it may help you as well.? Thank you, Kathy!

Do Whatever He Tells You ? The Blessed Mother Mary?s Final Words in Sacred Scripture (transcription of Gary Zimak?s Radio Program on 1/12/12)

If we do whatever Jesus tells us, then one day we will one day live with Him in Heaven.? The problem is we want to do whatever we want to do, and sometimes it is difficult to listen to what Jesus tells us.? In the story of the wedding at Cana, we do not know the names of the bride and groom, but we do know that the Mother of Jesus was invited.? Jesus and his disciples were there as well.? During that wedding feast, Jesus performed his first miracle, which was changing water into wine.? Mary told us to do whatever He tells us ? and there were NO exceptions.? The church has always interpreted this to mean that we should follow the Lord?s commandments, and that those words were not just directed at the servants at the wedding, but to each of us.

John 2:1 ? On the third day, there was a marriage at Cana in Galilee and the Mother of Jesus was there.? Mary is highlighted in this story.? John includes details for a reason.? If John is including the fact that Mary is at the wedding, there is a reason.? It?s not just something that is ?thrown in? ? Mary is mentioned first.? And why is that?? Because Mary plays an important role in this miracle.? And then John mentions that Jesus also was invited to the marriage with His disciples.? Mary even gets mentioned before Jesus in this miracle.? This is not to say that she is divine or that she actually ?performed? the miracle, but it is just to draw attention to Mary?s importance in what is about to happen.

When the wine failed, the Mother of Jesus said to Him, ?they have no wine.?? Just a simple statement.? Not even a request.? Just a simple statement.? She went up to her son.? She did not need to say much, because she knew what He would do.? ?They have no wine.?? And Jesus said to her, ?Oh woman, what has this to do with me?? My hour has not yet come.?? Now this is sometimes a point of confusion.? People who do not want to give the Blessed Mother any credit, who want to discredit her role or downplay her importance, express the opinion that Jesus is rebuking His mother.? Well, nothing could be further from the truth.? The fact that He is calling her Woman in reference to the original woman, Eve.? Mary is the new Eve.? It also is a title used for queens.? It is an honorable title.? He is not talking down to her.

?My hour has not yet come.?? There are a number of reasons why our Lord could have said this.? One of the most plausible is that He wants to show us the importance of Mary?s intercession.? His hour has not yet come.? He has not yet started His public ministry.? He has not performed His first miracle.? But at the request of Mary, when Mary brings to His attention that there is a problem, what happens?? Immediately? after Mary says to the Lord, ?They have no wine,? she turns to the servants and issues her last words in Sacred Scripture, ?Do whatever He tells you.?? Note that she didn?t come back and argue with Him.? Why is that?? Because: #1:? She trusted him; and, #2.? She knew what He was going to do.? Mary and Jesus understand each other.? Mary?s will is always one with the will of the Lord.? She knew what He would do.

Obviously, Our Lord was going along with Mary?s request, responding to her statement.? If He was rebuking her, he wouldn?t perform the miracle. That is another reason why we know that Our Lord listens to His Mother.? The servants filled the jars with water;they filled them up to the brim, as Jesus instructed.? He said to draw some out and take it to the steward of the feast. So they took it ? they were listening to Him.? The steward of the feast tested the water, now become wine, and did not know where it had come from.? He then called the bridegroom and told him, ?Every man serves the good wine first, but when the men have drunk freely, they substitute the poor wine.? But you have kept the good wine until now.?? This is the first of the signs that Jesus did at Cana in Galilee and manifested His glory; and his disciples believed in Him.? This is one of the reasons John refers to Jesus’ miracles as signs.? They were not acts of magic. They were signs of His glory.? And people saw this.? As humans, when we see miracles we are awed, we are stunned.? We realize God is in our presence.? Jesus had to establish the fact that He was the Son of God and miracles were a means of illustrating that fact.? And the beautiful thing about this miracle is that, the Lord replaced the wine with even better wine.? Not only did Jesus listen to Mary, not only did He honor her request, but He exceeded it.? And that is a lesson for each of us.

From an old prayer book, the Our Lady Book (by Fr. Lasance) : “How admirably sublime the position occupied by Mary in this circumstance at Cana.? The Redeemer states openly and emphatically that His Hour is not yet come for the public manifestation and exercise of His miraculous power.? And yet, He actually works a great miracle at the modest request of His mother.? They have no wine ? that is all she said.? Thus, the eternal decrees of God are, as it were, accelerated or even anticipated for the purpose of sparing the young couple mortification.? And this is done out of regard to the blessed Virgin.? Here, we may discover what wonderful and extraordinary power Mary has with God. Moreover, the thoughtful and kind Virgin Mary points out to us the conditions under which help is to come from God when she says to the servers, ‘whatever He says to you, do ye’ .”

The author of this prayer book is telling us that if we want to get our prayers answered, do whatever Jesus is telling us.? If we would but throw ourselves with faith and confidence unconditionally into the hands of the Savior resolving to tread in His footsteps, to keep His commandments, God would help us ? and even be ready and willing to come toward us in a supernatural manner, when all ordinary and natural means fail to sustain us.

Do you have problems in your life?? Are you facing major crises?? The Lord is standing by to help you.? And our Blessed Mother is ready to come and take you by the hand and bring you to Jesus. And she is going to remind you of these words, ?Do whatever He tells you.?? That means following His commands.? Are you following the commandments of the Church founded by Her Son? So many times we pick and choose which teachings of our Lord we wish to follow.? That is not good enough.? Mary says to do whatever He tells you.? The author of the prayer book goes on to say:

“Jesus does even more than what His mother asked him to do.? She wished him merely to extricate the bridal party from an unpleasant embarrassment.? This could have been affected by a new supply of the same quality of wine or even an inferior quality of wine, it being the custom of the country to serve a less expensive wine toward the end of the feast.? But Jesus did more.? He produced a wine so excellent that the chief stewardess was astonished.? What a gentle and suggestive act of attention from Jesus to His Beloved Mother.? This miracle wrought by Jesus out of love for his Mother is well calculated to awaken, to strengthen, to elevate your unlimited confidence in the same Holy Mother.
She had not been asked by the bridal couple of Cana to use her good offices with Jesus. It is probable that they were not aware of the deficiencies in the wine until the whole thing had been remedied.? There is no indication that the bride and groom knew there was a problem. But Mary was so compassionate that she made sure that it was brought to the Lord?s attention even before the people involved knew there was a problem.?? Mary, though unsolicited, sought to relieve and supply their necessities.? If you, in your hour of need, pray to this same kind Mother, earnestly and persistently, assailing her, so to speak, by your prayers and your tears, will she not turn toward you a willing and attentive ear?? At the wedding in Cana, it was a question of a very trifling and transitory inconvenience.? If then, you turn toward her in the most important areas of life, where there is a question of saving your immortal soul, of preserving your innocence, of maintaining your very life, where there is danger of offending the Divine Majesty or of dishonoring the Sacred Blood of Jesus Christ, will she act less mercifully or efficiently in your behalf than she did on the behalf of the embarrassed couple at their wedding feast? When at Cana, the Blessed Mother was still sojourning in this valley of tears, but now in Heaven, her position as Queen of Angels, is eminently glorious and influential.? Now it is her special office to act as refuge of sinners, comforter of the afflicted and helper of the sick”.

From her position in Heaven, Mary can help us in tremendous and unbelievable ways. But she expects us to do what Jesus tells us.? For example, Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount do not be anxious.? Matthew 6:25, Our Lord says, ?therefore I tell you do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, or what you will put on.? Is life not more than food and the body more than clothing?? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.? Are you of not more value than they?? And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to your span of life??? Therefore do not worry about what shall we eat, what shall we drink, what shall we wear.? For the Gentiles seek all these things and your Heavenly Father knows you need them all.? Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all of these things shall be yours as well.?

So there you go ? that is a commandment from the Lord ? Do not be anxious.? Well, we say, ?I can?t help it.?? ?I worry.?? Well, stop it!? If you worry, open your bible, say your prayers, and get to Holy Communion as often as possible.? Receive penance as often as you can.? Get those graces flowing. The Lord said “Do not be anxious”!? This is a battle I fight every day. I need to focus on the Lord?s providence.? I have to battle though this.? The minute I see the worry starting to happen, I stop myself and I pray. That is what Blessed Mary expects us to do. The Lord commands us not to be anxious.? You might still be nervous, but pray for assistance.? If you are praying, you are not going to be worrying.? Worrying accomplishes nothing.? Praying has a tremendous effect.

Also in Matthew, we read:? ?You are the light of the world.? A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.? Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and give glory to God your Father in Heaven.??? People should be seeing our actions and giving glory to the Father in Heaven.? Is that happening in my life?? Am I living my life in such a way that gives glory to the Father?? If not, I need to work on it.? The Blessed Mother is telling us to do whatever Jesus tells us to do.? Therefore, we can’t ignore His words!

How many times do we hold a grudge and not forgive?? Jesus tells us to not only forgive minor offenses but to love our enemies.? When people do bad things to us ? love them!? That is a command of our Lord.? Are we listening?? ?Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does them is like a wise man who builds his house on a rock.? When the rain comes, the house built on rock will stand strong.?? Do you listen to the words of the Lord? Are you obeying his commandments??? Or are you taking matters into your own hands and only choosing to obey the commands of our Lord that you wish to listen to? Many times, we only do our “own thing”.? And the same thing applies to the laws of the Church.? Jesus founded the Catholic Church and Benedict XVI is the successor of St. Peter.? Do we listen to the teachings of the Church, or do we disregard the ones that we find unpleasant?? Listen to Mary’s advice and you’ll do just fine… Do whatever He tells you.? If you obey, one day you will be with the Lord in Heaven.

Posted in Marian, Mary, miracles, radio | Comments Off

3 Suggestions For Hearing And Responding To God’s Voice

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Gary Zimak

What does God want me to do?

That’s a question that we often ask ourselves.? While complaining that the Lord doesn’t speak to us, we sometimes fail to recognize the fact that He is speaking…it’s just that we’re not listening!

How do we get better at hearing and responding to God’s voice?? The readings from today’s Mass hold some important clues.? In the First Reading (1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20), Samuel is unaware that the voice he is hearing is actually coming from the Lord.? Fortunately, the high priest Eli is able to let Samuel know that God is speaking to him.

LESSON 1:? Seek out the advice of a spiritual director or a trusted friend when trying to hear the Lord’s voice in your life.

In today’s Gospel (Mk 1:29-39), after healing Simon’s mother-in-law,? Jesus rose early the next morning and “went off to a deserted place, where He prayed”.

LESSON 2:? If you want to hear the Lord speaking to you, find a quiet place (even if only for a few minutes) and pray.? If it was good enough for Jesus, it’s good enough for us.? According to St. Cyprian of Carthage, “If He who is without sin prayed, how much more ought sinners to pray?”

Once we have determined that the Lord is speaking to us (and possibly calling us to do something), there is one more thing that we should do.? While it is important that we learn to identify God’s voice, it is more important that we obey His commands.? A great piece of advice can be found in today’s Responsorial Psalm (Ps 40:2 and 5, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10)…

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

LESSON 3:? Be open to what the Lord may be asking of you, even if it is difficult!

Following these 3 simple suggestions will help you hear and respond to the God’s voice.? Give it a try today and see what happens!

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Layoffs, Death and Preparation

Posted on January 7, 2012 by Gary Zimak

A man must always be ready,
for death comes when and where God wills it.
(St. John Neumann)

Several weeks ago, an email was sent from the president of our company.? He spoke of the need for a reduction in staff and informed us that a layoff would take place on or before a certain date.? Immediately upon receiving this email, people began to do one or more of the following:

Worry that they would be one of those laid off.
Prepare for a possible layoff by updating their resumes and exchanging email addresses.
Clean out their offices, taking home personal belongings.
Pray.

As the time grew closer, I began to prepare.? Eventually, we reached the final day.? We were informed that those affected would be summoned beginning at 9 AM.? Like everyone else in the company, I sat at my desk and waited for my manager to appear.? Although I prayed for acceptance of God’s will, I would lapse in and out of worrying as I watched several of my coworkers being escorted to the door.? Despite the tension, I was comforted with the thought that I was prepared.? My desk was cleaned out, I exchanged business cards with several friends and final emails were sent.? Approximately 90 minutes into the process, my manager appeared at my desk and asked me to come to his office.? Fifteen minutes later I was being escorted out the door and my 15 year career at the company had come to an end.

In many ways, the layoff process is similar to death.? We all know that it’s coming, but we don’t know when.? Any day could be our last.? Although we know that death is inevitable and most know that they will be judged, people prepare in different ways.? Some worry, others ignore it, and some prepare by trying to lead a good life and/or repenting from sinful behavior.? One thing is for certain, once death comes, the time for amending our lives is over.? According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC):

Death puts an end to human life as the time open to either accepting or rejecting the divine grace manifested in Christ.? The New Testament speaks of judgment primarily in its aspect of the final encounter with Christ in his second coming, but also repeatedly affirms that each will be rewarded immediately after death in accordance with his works and faith.? The parable of the poor man Lazarus and the words of Christ on the cross to the good thief, as well as other New Testament texts speak of a final destiny of the soul–a destiny which can be different for some and for others.? Each man receives his eternal retribution in his immortal soul at the very moment of his death, in a particular judgment that refers his life to Christ: either entrance into the blessedness of heaven-through a purification or immediately, — or immediate and everlasting damnation. (CCC 1021-1022)

In his book the Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis offers some profound advice:

How dull we are and hard of heart, for we think only of the present and make little provision for the life hereafter!? If you were wise, you would so order your life as though you were to die before the day is over…In the morning think that you may not live till night; and when night comes, do not be sure that you will live till tomorrow.? Therefore always be ready, and so live that you will not have an unprovided death. (Chapter 23, Meditation on Death)

At my former company, people questioned the president’s logic of sending the email announcing the layoff in advance.? For some, their Christmas was ruined because they spent the time worrying.? For the vast majority, however, they used the notice to prepare for the reality of the event.? Each of us will die one day and be judged for how we lived our lives.? The results of that judgment will determine whether we spend eternity in heaven or hell.? Changing our lives now can definitely help us to achieve the former.? Why not take advantage of the warning and prepare?

?Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.? For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth.? Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.? (Luke 21:34-36)

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The Hardest Thing I’ve Ever Had To Do…

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Gary Zimak

During the fourth watch of the night, He came toward them, walking on the sea.? When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified.? ?It is a ghost,? they said, and they cried out in fear.? At once [Jesus] spoke to them, ?Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.?? Peter said to him in reply, ?Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.? He said, ?Come.?? Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.? But when he saw how [strong] the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, ?Lord, save me!?? Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, ?O you of little faith, why did you doubt??? After they got into the boat, the wind died down.? (Matthew 14:25-32)

Many are you are aware of the fact that Catholic evangelization has never been a full time job for me.? Although I’ve always had the desire to work for the Lord on a full time basis, the advice I’ve received? from my spiritual director, from trusted friends and in prayer has been, “don’t quit your day job”.? As the sole provider for my wife and children, I understood and accepted the fact that my primary vocation in life is being a father.? As a result, I made the decision that I would hold on to?my day?job (as a?control account manager in the defense industry) until I was able to earn a living working for the Lord (in some capacity).? I also had to accept the fact that, despite my personal desire, I may always have to hold a secular job and work as an evangelist on my own time.? Although I struggled with this reality, I did accept it.??While my wife and I felt that there is a good chance that it was God’s will for me to work for Him on a full time basis, we weren’t sure.? Therefore, we both agreed that we’d let the Lord decide when I would leave my day job.

That decision was made for me today as I was laid off due to a company downsizing. I suspected that it was coming, but there is no way for a “comfort zone” person such as myself to adequately prepare for this type of event.? I have been calling out to Jesus (as did Peter) and asking Him to command me to?get out of the boat (of course, my plan was to have another boat waiting).? Today, the Lord asked?me to step out and walk to Him.? There is no other?boat waiting for me…only Jesus.??Although I’m afraid, I am listening and doing as He commands.

Over the past 3 years, my work as a Catholic?lay evangelist has grown beyond my wildest expectations.? I?never expected to?become a regular guest on network Catholic radio, host my own radio show or write a book…but all of those things have happened due to?God’s grace.? I have been blessed to meet, pray for and minister to many people over the airwaves, the Internet and in person.

As?I write?this, I can say that (for the moment) I?am a full time Catholic lay evangelist.??Although the future is unknown, I am excited about the prospect of having more time to?do the Lord’s work.? This?should result in?more radio appearances,?increased blogging, additional posting on Facebook and Twitter and the start of my second book.? In the meantime, I will explore ways to generate revenue so that I can support?my?family?and pay for the?costs associated with Following The Truth (website, radio expenses, Internet costs, etc.).? I have some ideas and will begin to explore them now.

At some point, I may do something I’ve never done before and ask for donations to help keep my work at Following The Truth alive.? For now, I simply ask for your prayers, so that I may be able to discern God’s will, provide for my family and continue to help others to grow closer to Christ through His Catholic Church.? God Bless You!

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary

Posted in discernment, faith, trust, unemployment | 8 Comments

Contemplating Death

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Gary Zimak

“Tempus Fugit, Memento Mori” (“Time Flies, Remember Death”)
-? a motto of the Knights of Columbus

I know it’s not a popular activity, but meditating upon the realities of death?is extremely important to our spiritual well being.? If we desire to lead a good, holy life and live forever in Heaven, thinking about our death is imperative.? Why?? Because doing so reminds us that the temporal things of this life will pass and that we will be judged on how we lived our life.? That judgment, occurring immediately after we die, will determine whether we spend eternity in Heaven or hell!? Doesn’t it make sense to be prepared?

Last night, on my Following The Truth radio show, I devoted the program to this important topic and discussed the fact that?none of us know when we will die.? Michael R.,?a good friend and listener, sent me the following email this morning.? His words are so powerful that I asked if I could share them.

I enjoyed your show last night.? It is strange that songs telling us that ?everybody wants to go heaven, but nobody wants to go now?, commercials telling us what we have to have now in order to be happy, better people, the struggle to make a better life for ourselves and our children and our desires to have all the toys we can get, all are in direct opposition to the Glory that God offers us.? How can they compare?
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Oh, we of such little faith that spend every minute trying to be happy now and completely blowing off the future.? How easy it is for me to tell my children that they should wait for something and yet I run out to grab that cheeseburger or some other thing that is forgotten in 5 minutes.
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We should eagerly anticipate a good death but we know we aren’t ready to have that face to face with God.? I don?t think that it is really the fear of the unknown that bothers us as much as the fear of what is known of ourselves that haunts us and is suppressed because of our selfish desires.? We are really good at denial.? At least I am!?
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It is a good thing to contemplate death or rather that instant of it.? Truly we are contemplating life, or our lives, leading up to it.? It aids us putting our true desire to enter into the Kingdom paramount to all else- to love the Lord with our whole being always!
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Oh, most blessed Mother, pray for us now and at the hour of our death because my faith is so weak I sorely neglect living well so that I may die.? Let me remember always that all I want to hear then is ?well done, my good and faithful servant ?.
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Gary, may you live well so that your death is a springboard into Heaven!
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Enjoy this day the Lord has made!? It might be the last one you have to endure.

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