I think I’ve mentioned before about how I go about writing my blog posts. Because spoiler alert…it’s unconventional.
I literally sit down, and ask the Holy Spirit to write my post for me.
And then, it’s like the words just kinda flow.
But recently, there’s been a topic that has been put on my heart to write about: The Image of the Divine Mercy.
And quite honestly, I have been resisting. I was afraid it was too “churchy” or could be seen as too “religious,” so I have been kind of side stepping it.
But since I teased it a bit with this picture from last Thursday’s Chicago post, it’s as though God has been throwing every flashing sign in my path, saying…WRITE THE POST!
But last night was the kicker. I went to a church I don’t normally go to. I was out with friends and I needed to go to mass, so I went to one in the area. And wouldn’t you know, not only was I sitting in a pew that was right next to this painting….
But right smack dab on the wall was a huge mural painting, depicting the scene of the Divine Mercy. It’s when Saint Maria Faustina received the vision of Jesus’s Divine Mercy.
I could no longer ignore the prompting put on my heart.
So here it goes.
As you know, my battle with anorexia was grave. My junior and senior years of high school were tumultuous. I had managed to manipulate everyone in my life into believing that my drastic weight loss (I had wasted away to 78 pounds) was due to my ulcerative colitis. Which, initially, some of it was. I had a severe flare up at the beginning of my Junior year. But when I developed anorexia later that year, I would use my UC to my “advantage” and long story short, I had everyone believing that I had some horrific complications that were making me unable to gain weight.
Everyone, that is, except my mother.
She knew the truth.
Call it a mother’s intuition. Call it a gut feeling. But from the very onset, my mother knew that I was suffering from an eating disorder.
But here’s where things get hairy. By the time things got dire, I was 18, and legally an adult. So my parents could not force me to go to inpatient treatment.
And I might just be one of the most strong willed individuals you’ll ever come across.
Enter an intervention. Etc. Etc. Etc.
Back to my mom.
Sitting here, now, as a healed and healthy young woman, I often think about my mom, and what she must have gone through, watching her daughter waste away. Being the only one who could see through my manipulation and see the truth of the situation.
I remember talking with her years later, and she said something to me that I think will haunt me for the rest of my life. She said, “I had to prepare myself that you may die.”
Gosh. The pain I put this woman through. Even though I know she has forgiven me and loves me and we have moved on and healed together, my heart still sinks every time I remember that.
But the thing about my mom, which I have written about before, is that she never gossiped about me to her friends. Not even disguised as a “prayer request.” I mean, clearly, everyone could see what I was going through – my emaciated, skeletal body was a walking billboard. But people believed that it was my Ulcerative Colitis. Not anorexia.
But my mom knew that – if God-willing – I survived, that the only way our relationship would ever be able to heal were if our trust remained intact. Which, I know, seems like a glaring oxymoron – as I was literally manipulating and lying to her. But despite my deception, she knew that I needed to be able to trust her. And so she never talked to anyone about what I was battling.
Except our priest.
She spent every night in the Adoration Chapel at our church, praying for me. Pleading to God to save me and rescue me from the grips of the devil.
And she would confide in our priest.
And there was one day, during her confession, that he told her to adopt a devotion to the Divine Mercy, and gave her a little prayer card and booklet about it.
(And if you want to read more about it, you can get a book here.)
But it talked about how this image of Jesus was given to Saint Maria Faustina, and it shows the mercy of Christ pouring from His heart in a red and white ray. And underneath the image is the phrase, “Jesus, I trust in You.”
So my mom, desperate to do anything she can to save me, decided to read up on it, and went to our local Christian bookstore to pick up a few books. And wouldn’t you know, that right as she arrived, they were unloading from this big truck, a beautiful, nearly lifesize, framed painting of the image of the Divine Mercy.
It was the only one they had ordered, and my mom, recognizing this as a reassuring hug from God, bought the painting on the spot, and it has had a prominent place in our home ever since.
But the Divine Mercy is what got my mom through that incredibly trying season.
You see, the devotion to it, is all about the mercy of Jesus. And how we can completely trust in Him.
Saint Faustina heard these words from Jesus during the vision: “Paint an image according to the pattern you see, with the signature: Jesus, I trust in You. I promise that the soul that will venerate this image will not perish…I am offering people a vessel with which they are to keep coming for graces to the fountain of mercy.”
I recently asked my mom about it, and here’s what she had to say…
I think that just about says it all.
My mother’s faith is something I will always be in awe of. So much power is packed into that petite woman. (She’s in the 5’2″ club!)
But I’ve said it before, I think so many times when we feel the most abandoned by God in a dire situation where we feel oppressed and unable to go on — it is in those moments that God is actually sustaining us. Carrying us through, moment to moment. And we can completely trust in that.
Last night, sitting in church getting stared down by the mural of the Divine Mercy, and feeling the giant weight of the post I was going to have to write…God came in with the final 1-2 punch.
The gospel was John 15:1-8. “I am the Vine, you are the branches.” We’ve all heard it 1000 times and can recite it in our sleep.
I am ten years strong in my recovery from anorexia. But if there’s one thing that I know, is that I cannot do this on my own. My recovery depends on the Vine.
“Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own
unless it remains on the vine,
so neither can you unless you remain in Me.
I am the Vine, you are the branches.
Whoever remains in Me and I in him will bear much fruit,
because without Me you can do nothing.”
That is the “secret” to a long and lasting recovery. It’s not body positivity. It’s not positive mantras, adult coloring books, mindfulness or self-affirmations. It’s Jesus. Plain and simple: Remaining connected to the Vine, and showing up every single day to the fountain of Divine Mercy with open hands and an open heart.
Thank you to those who have bought my book, Bloom. It is my prayer that it can help keep you connected to the Vine, and help you open your heart to receive His love and mercy that were so transformative to my recovery.
Hope you have a great week, and I’ll see you Wednesday.
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240 responses to “Divine Mercy: Prayer through Pain”
Amazing story. I love the way God reaches out to those who are desperate enough to reach out to Him. Your mom is a woman who learned to trust the only one who could help — and, He did!
Thank you so much Beverly. Yes, my mom sure is a rock star! Hugs and love xox
A powerful post. But then if Jesus is writing them, we should expect no less. 🙂
Seriously, I admire your courage in being so open about your faith and both what it gives you and what it costs. I struggle a bit here, particularly lately. Well, more than a bit. So thank you for this reminder that I need to step up my faith game and a great way to start!
Thanks so much JP. I appreciate your kind words, Yeah sometimes I just have to close my eyes, press publish, and walk away! Hugs and love xox
This is such a beautiful post. I so admire your spirit and faith.
I find it an amazing coincidence that I just wrote a post about a dear friend of mine whose daughter is still very ill with anorexia, who once said to me about her “I’m losing her, I have to prepare myself for the fact that she may die.” That ripped my heart out and you post this.
I need to send him the link to this blog.
Thank you so much billy. I will definitely keep her in my prayers. Gosh. My heart goes out to that family. Hugs and love xox
Beautiful post and an inspiration. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much Ann! Hugs and love xox
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Amen!! Hugs and love xox
Your posts warm my heart.
Aw thank you so much!! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful post! I’m a member of the 5’2″ club too. Petite with plenty of room yet to grow!
Thanks so much Tina 🙂 yay!! Haha Hugs and love xox
That was beautiful and chilling. God often speaks to us and shows up just when we need him. No one could convince me that he wasn’t behind sending your mom to that bookstore at the exact moment the painting was to arrive. Never be afraid to post about God or Jesus. The whole world needs him now more than ever. Peace & hugs, Rachel
Thanks Rachel:) I appreciate that. So true. God is good! Hugs and love xox
Thanking God you have a mother who never gave up on praying for you 🙂
thank you friend. you’re so right – I am so grateful for her! Hugs and love xox
That is so beautiful!! (It might have made me cry.) I’m not a Christian, but Jesus is my favorite person ever. Praise Him to the highest!!
Thank you so much Meg! So glad this resonated with you! Hugs and love xox
For the sake of his sorrowful passion, have mercy on me and on the whole world!
amen! Thanks Tim, big hugs to you xox
Awesome story…thanks for sharing this chapter of your life. It’s a great reminder of how God always looks out for us.
Thank you Sean! amen to that, He always does! Hugs and love xox
You’re welcome Caralyn! Hugs and love xoxo
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Ok once again a moving piece. The poetry of God’s Devine intervention through the persistent prayers of your mother; provide us with a clear view of God majesty and love for the least of us. You have become a voice to a generation, a voice of reasoned proof of God’s unfailing love. Thank you for preaching. Grace and mercy are never tiring. —Stephan
Thank you so much Stephan. Amen to that – His majesty and love is so amazing. and gosh, what a kind thing to say. Hugs and love xox
Inspiring. I understand how God works through words and the Vine is our lifelines. Amen.
Thank you so much Susan 🙂 Yes! Lifelines for sure! Hugs and love xox
All I can say is thank you and God bless you and your family. I always love reading your blog posts. Thank you for sharing with us, Christ pours out through your writing. 💛
Thank you so much. Gosh, I am so touched and humbled by your kind words. big hugs xox
Blessed I am thanks for sharing this post. Staying intune with Our Heavenly father is key to us maintaining our spirit healthy and blessed.
God bless you and family.
Thank you so much, you’re so right! That is the key! Hugs and love xox
Welcome and blessed week.
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Great post. I sort of pray the Chaplet from time to time, make the Novena almost every year, but surrendering fully to Devotion to the Divine Mercy image, I have yet to do.
Thank you David. Yeah, it is a powerful prayer for sure. Hugs and love xox
It is almost 3:30 AM. I just finished praying the Most Holy Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. I’ve been fighting some insomnia and despair for a while now. Finally, I did what I should have been doing all along, imploring the aid of Our Blessed Mother and Our Lord. Suddenly, the loneliness and despair are quieted. I feel the presence of Jesus and Mary here with me,(as they have been all along).
I’m so glad that you felt that peace! Praise be to God! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for sharing this great story.
thanks so much JB 🙂 I appreciate you taking the time to read! Hugs and love xox
You are very graciously welcome so much. You are going to be an inspiration to many. Hugs and love back.
xoxoxo 🙂 xoxoxo
Amen. Praise the Lord. And your mother’s faith speaks to me. Thanks for sharing that, Caralyn.
Thank you so much Ted, yeah I hear ya! her faith inspires me. Hugs and love xox
Thank you for sharing and your courage to reveal the depth of your faith. I struggle with similar things in my writing as I don’t want to alienate those who don’t (yet) share our faith. The thing about your story is that it is so genuine and raw i know it will not do that. Well done!
Thank you so much J, I’m so glad this hit home with you! Hugs and love xox
Simply beautiful. I love The Divine Mercy devotion and St. Faustina.
Thank you so much 🙂 Yes! It is such a beautiful and comforting image and prayer. Hugs and love xox
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thanks Pi 🙂 Hugs and love xox
This was an incredibly awesome and inspiring post! I literally had goosebumps as I read your story. You are definitely a strong person to have overcome so much. As you know, nothing is impossible with God. The Divine Mercy Chaplet is so very powerful. Once again, truly inspiring!
oh my gosh, thank you so much Joy!! I’m so glad it hit home with you. Amen! nothing is impossible with God!!! Hugs and love xox
Struggle makes us stronger and wiser and defines us. Once we struggle we can appreciate life and paradise when we find it
So true. The suffering comes before the glory. Christ was a perfect example of that for us.
Thank you for sharing your mother’s faith and devotion during your struggle with addiction. My son struggles with addiction, and as a mom, there is nothing more terrifying as knowing that your child could die and you are powerless to help. Watching him or her slip away from you, becoming someone you don’t even recognize, is nothing short of torture. But Jesus isn’t powerless, and it’s my faith in Him and my own recovery that sustains me. Your story gives me hope. God bless you and your mom.
Thank you so much Diana, for sharing your heart. I will definitely keep your son and you and your family in my prayers. Addiction is such a tough thing. Keep the faith. God’s got you. Sending big big hugs xoxoxoxo
Love the fact you included audio! Beautiful post!
thank you so much Melanie! big hugs to you xo
I love the Divine Mercy devotion. Divine Mercy was one of the first things that I discovered in the beginning of my spiritual journey. Jesus I Trust in You.
Thank you so much Joann! It’s such a comforting image and prayer, isn’t it? Hugs and love xox
We are all souls and spiritual. We just need to follow it and for those who are not there yet need to find it. The soul is the real them
Great post! I also have trouble writing blogs when God prompts me for fear of being too churchy or radical. On the other hand I don’t want to meet him face to face and try to explain why I DIDN’T write it! You have a nice writing style. You, your mom and family are in my prayers.
Thank you so much Mary! Yeah, it can definitely be scary to press publish! haha that’s a great point! thank you for the prayers and kind words! Hugs and love xox
Someone introduced me to the Divine Mercy image and story last summer. I would take time at 3pm most days to rest in the chaplet. It was a devotion very different than what I was accustomed to, and it refreshed me. Jesus’ mercy is free, and that’s a beautiful thing. Thank you for following my thoughts and sharing yours so generously. I can tell you push past a lot of your own walls through the blogging process.
Thank you Rachel! Gosh, that is so beautiful. I love that so much. amen – it is free and such a powerful thing! Hugs and love xox
Sometimes the deepest posts are the hardest to write but so cleansing to the spirit. I cried when I read this, so much love from you to bare your soul, so much love from your mother, and so much love from the master who guided your hand, beloved Lord Jesus. I’m glad you healed you’re such a bright and beautiful soul.
Thank you so much Lorna! That’s so true – the hardest to write and yet perhaps the most important. I’m so glad this resonated with you. Yeah, my mom is one special lady. big hugs to you xo
Thank you for having the courage to share your story. I’m sure there are painful moments looking back and remembering, but what a beautiful story you have to share with those who may be going through similar things. God bless you and your journey ❤️
Thank you so much Juliet! I really appreciate your support and kind words. big hugs to you xx
Caralyn,
Over the years you have received the spiritual gifts of teaching, faith, miracles, and healing. Within you, you carry the healing touch of Jesus. It’s good to see you using all your gifts and exercising impartation of Jesus’ love and standing firm against ED. Well done good and faithful servant.
Dan
Oh my goodness, Dan, thank you for this incredibly generous response. I am touched and humbled. God is good, and His mercy is truly amazing. Sending massive hugs xo
Such a wonderful post. There is no love like a mother’s love but above all God’s love.
Hi Corrie, thank you so much 🙂 amen to that – I am so grateful to have her as my mom and best friend 🙂 big hugs xo
What a beautiful testimony. I am glad and blessed that you chose to obey and write it. Praise God for your mom, your mom’s heart, determination, faithfulness, discretion, and for her priest! Praise His name for answered prayer, for divine healing, and for the many more lovely parts of who He is!
Thanks for sharing some more of your faith too! I love reading more about Jesus through the different faiths He shines through. I learn a little more of a Catholic faith through you! <3 It's all about Christ! Me and God love you, Caralyn! Praying for you and your mom!
Thank you so much Gail, what a kind response. I am truly so touched. Amen! I am so grateful to God for my mom. she inspires me each and every day. thank you for the prayers. know that you are in mine too! big hugs to you x
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Such a beautiful post. Thank you for sharing ❤️
Thank you so much Sharon! I appreciate you taking the time to read it! Hugs and love xox
You mentioned this story before long ago and it is definitely worth repeating. What a blessing is your mother’s faith and how reassuring to be loved like that by anyone! I know God loves us dearly but arms are so very comforting to fall into! Which more brothers and sisters in Christ got that, how we are Jesus’ arms here for people. But I digress… may God continue to bless you and I continue to love you!! ❤ 🌹
Thank you so much Tonya! yes! good memory! hah yeah, i am so inspired by my mama. Amen to that – His arms are the best, most comforting arms in the world!! big big hugs to you friend xox
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God gave us beautiful compassion and kindness which true humanity shares as so in this comment and in this post. Here humanity has surfaced
Beautiful.
Caralyn, thank you, and GOD BLESS YOU!
It is a blessing to read you sharing Christ, sowing the seed for some, watering the seed that has already been planted in others.
Luv. 😀❤️🌹
Aw, George. God bless you too, my friend. Thank you for such kind and affirming words. I am very touched. hope your week is off to a great start. big hugs xo
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Loved your post! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much, friend! So glad you enjoyed it 🙂 big hugs to you xox
Ahhh! Thanks! Same to you. I’m glad that your life has gotten back on track and “Please!” keep writing what the Spirit prompts. It was very nice.
Thanks again 🙂 xoxoxoxoxoox
This is beautiful. It is so refreshing to see someone like you be as brave and faith filled as you are. It takes a lot of courage to post about personal things, and also about religion and faith. Keep writing from your heart – I look forward to your posts because I can relate so much. My recovery has been about bringing God back into my life and reconnecting with the Catholic faith that I was brought up in. God works in mysterious ways, and He speaks through each of us. Thank you for not shying away from this important topic/story. ♥️
Thank you so much. Gosh what a kind response. I’m so glad they resonate with you. Amen to that – God transforms!!! Big hugs to you xox
Such an amazing post . Your Faith is so strong I admire that. God as got you through such a hard time . You are truly blessed and the love of a great mom also . ❤️
Aw thank you so much. Gosh what a kind thing to say. Yes! God has been so good to me 🙂 Big hugs to you xox
Hugs as always 🙂
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I love stories of redemption! Moms are so special and their prayers so powerful. Both of you played a part in a bigger story, one that displays the Great Love of our Father to everyone, everywhere. Thank you for letting Him talk through you, He truly makes beauty from ashes.
Thanks Lea! Moms really are the best 🙂 and gosh what a kind thing to say. God is good! Hugs and love xox
“It’s not positive mantras, adult coloring books, mindfulness or self-affirmations. It’s Jesus. Plain and simple”
Excellent! Not us, but Christ. You know the truth and share it with others. So impressive. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much Kenneth! Amen! It’s all Him!! Hugs and love xox
Awesome words! I am blessed that your commitment to Jesus is as strong as it is. I never knew that from some of your other post (not that they were bad)! I will definitely continue to follow your post! Jesus is Lord
Thank you so much Ricardo. What a kind thing to say. Amen! God is good! Hugs and love xox
Your welcome! if you haven’t already you can see a pic of my large family on my last post. Also our family story. God bless!
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Lameness is an impedement to the leg but not to the will and say this with regard to everything that happens (Epictetus)
You are special. I see why the bright side is important. It fills a deficit until we ourselves can fill it. Or. Throw the cup. Drink from the river. Epictetus fits, your lameness concealed your will at that moment. I’m pretty lame myself. 😁 My family. Yeah. It is life. Not, it is what it is. That is giving up. Seneca said, “I do not know whether I shall make progress but I prefer to lack success rather than to lack faith.”
I’ve never done anything to be successful. I’m glad for your successes.
Gosh thank you Kenzie. Lot of powerful thoughts there. I think you’ve done lots of successful things! You’re an incredibly smart person with lots of interesting and unique ideas – that’s one for starters 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Yes God will intervene in our life if we let Him and are serious about going the hard yards to cooperate with Him in the healing process. He’s given you a second chance and you’ve not let Him down. Important as that intervention in our earthly experience is, the most important intervention comes when having lived a good life he invites us into heaven where we spend an eternity with Him.
Thanks Ian. Amen to that – God has given me a second chance and for that o am so grateful 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Thank you for sharing this Caralyn. Only Jesus has got me through my journey with Neuroendocrine cancer,. I am back for another op soon but can say with confidence *I trust you Jesus^.
Thank you Andrew. Praying for you, my friend. Amen to that! God is the deliverer. Hugs and love xox
A fantastic post as always Caralyn, thanks so much for obey the Holy Spirit’s nudge to write. I sometimes feel my post could be too churchy or spiritual but when I obey I realize that it was meant to bless & help people. Greeting to your strong Mom for trusting God to heal & deliver you. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you so much 🙂 I really appreciate your support and kind words! Hugs and love xox
When you start believing in HIS divine presence,HE surely shows you the signs and guides you in every act.:)
Amen to that!! Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
love to you too..
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2 Corinthians 5:17 King James Version (KJV)
17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. — When we receive Jesus in our hearts, He gives us a new life. May you and all who believe in Him continue to grow according to the new life He has given us! Thankful for your testimony. God bless!
Yes!! Thank you so much Marcelo. So much comfort and hope! Hugs and love xox
It’s a beautiful blog, right from your heart Caralyn. It also reminds me of this beautiful song (I also posted it in my latest blog). So this one is for you and your mom : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTm1NcPbZHE
thank you so much 🙂 Hugs and love xox
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Such a powerful post. You are so blessed! You are truly a vessel of the Lord! Thank you!!!
thank you so much Eliah, what a kind thing to say! Hugs and love xox
Great blog! XXXXX
thank you so much! Hugs and love xox
This is so inspiring … my mom was the one who set the way for us to be closer to God and I am sure she has special prayers for each one of us, my three other siblings.
I am recovering from an injury myself and my faith is one thing that sustains me to keep pushing forward.
Gosh, thank you so much Dhidhak – I’m so glad you can relate. Hang in there. will pray for your recovery! Hugs and love xox
So beautiful. Thank you!
thank you so much Dianne! Hugs and love xox
My dear friend,
I am touched by your words and impressed by the behaviour of your mother – she had/has not only fully trust in God, but also in you. If we understand that we cannot even do one step alone, only our ego thinks it is the doer, then slowly slowly we can live in the Will of God as His instrument. God’s law of Mercy and Grace is wonderful and the more we absorb in Him in thankfulness, the more He takes care of us – He surely hears when His child’s soul cries with pain, asking for mercy and forgiveness.
Thanks for sharing my friend and send dear greeting from my heart to your mom.
From heart to heart
Didi
Thank you so much Didi. Amen – we need God and His mercy. Thanks for your kind words. big hugs xo
Big hugs in return, dear friend 🙂
Didi
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Never be fearful of sharing, nothings too Churchy/religious to share, especially when we are called to share Jesus, easy for me to say though as I’m the same. I have so many questions about Catholicism, but I wont bore you with them, they maybe ones for God. your mum is an amazing human being, to go through that with faith and then to go through the recovery from a stroke, she’s an inspiration and I havent even met her!
lots of love xxx
Thank you so much Benny, I really appreciate your encouraging words. Yes! She inspires me every day! Hugs and love xox
Are you a catholic!? Deo Gratias!! 😀
hahah yes! Hugs and love xox
Yeah I think a mother’s prayers to God for her children are some of the most powerful on earth. St. Monica and St. Augustine being the prime example. It’s certainly something I’d look for in a woman who wants to be a mother.
Thank you so much Earl, yeah moms are so special. Hugs and love xox
Beautiful ❤❤
thank you so much Robyn! Hugs and love xox
This is one great article! I have a lot to respond with, which I posted this morning on Patreon. You and your mother remain in my prayers, and I trust you are well this morning!
Thank you so much Jeff, I can’t wait to read! thanks for tour prayers! Hugs and love xox
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thanks for the link up! Hugs and love xox
I disagree. Success. Is really ambiguous rather faith even when its out of body like in your case, mother to daughter has a direction. Divinity when I’ve talked with theologians is like that I mean, faith becomes the frame of what one can do and success is the afterthought. Our current culture dictates success as a product, a medallion to purchase to ward off all failures. Faith is an afterthought. So. To really live a God first life rather than a “lifestyle” creates duality. I can see why the Amish and certain Jewish groups remain insular.
Something lighter, I found your Mother Goose Club stuff. 💪😁 You’re singing voice is amazing, lots of confidence there. You can tell you’re in the moment.
Lots of powerful food for thought. And haha thanks so much! yes! I love MGC! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
I grew up on Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers. That was my jam when I could find a TV. My cousin was on Wallace and Ladmo a few times because my aunt worked in production.
I was making coffee and the tough guys at work were wondering why I was watching “little kid shows.” 👌😂 That’s great. I’ll be reminded of this for like, all summer.
Hahaha
This post. It gave me chills, and brought tears to my eyes. I thought of my own mom, who prayed for me constantly when I was in the throes of my abusive relationship with John, from 2006-2010. I knew that Mom had been in an abusive marriage with her first husband in the 1970s. She graduated from college a semester early because she was so in love with Dan, and she wanted nothing more than to marry him. Luckily, they didn’t have any kids, and she was fortunate to escape when she did. He was definitely cheating on her, and he told her countless lies about their finances, and more. I don’t think he ever hit her, but if she hadn’t been with Dan, it’s likely she wouldn’t have met my dad, or had me. It’s funny how God’s timing is always perfect.
With my relationship with John, she saw all the hallmarks of what she had gone through. She was absolutely terrified when I told her we were considering getting married (John actually had the wedding set purchased, and had originally planned to propose to me on August 8, 2010. I broke up with him on July 17th). It took me years to believe her, but I know, without a doubt, that our relationship is so much stronger now because we had similar, almost shared experiences.
I’m incredibly grateful that she prayed for me so much all those years, even though there were so many times that I yelled, screamed, cried, and pushed her away. I still fill with shame when I think of the instance where John got it in my head, on a loop, that my mother was one of the laziest people on this Earth (absolutely, positively not true), and I felt compelled to tell her this, to her face. The look of hurt and pain on her face is something I’ve never forgotten. But, she never gave up on me, even when I had almost given up on her, and on God. I’m so incredibly thankful!!
Hi Laura Beth, thank you so much for this powerful response. It sounds like you have an amazing mom. Gosh, what a story. You’re so right – His timing is always perfect. Thank you so much for sharing this. You have gone through so much, and I am incredibly inspired by your courage and faith! Hugs and love xox
You’re so welcome! I do have an amazing mom. I try so hard to not take either of my parents for granted. I’m thrilled to share my story. You’re an incredible inspiration to me, too. XOXO
Keep sharing it girl!! ✨💛✨
Your honesty is amazing and ministers to all of us in similar situations. And your faith and self-analysis is inspiring. As a mother of adult children, step-children, and grandchildren, a good part of my day is in prayer for them. Thank you for reminding me that our children feel those prayers.
Thank you so much Mary – Gosh, I am so touched by this. Yeah, I think the prayers of mothers have a special link to God’s ears 🙂 thank you so much for your kind words. big hugs to you x
Very encouraging and inspiring post! This is what we were created for….to share our stories so that someone else can be delivered and set free. And most importantly to give glory to God! I’m so glad you found the courage to share your story. There’s so many people who will be encouraged because of it! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much Tiarra! Amen to that! God is good and to Him be the glory! Hugs and love xox
The Holy Spirit is truly a gift. Thank you for sharing your testimony. I love the Divine Mercy. I also love and recommend the “Litany of Trust”. A priest shared it with me and touched my heart.
Thank you so much Channel. Yes it is! I’ll have to look into the Litany of Trust! Hugs and love xox
When we are desperate or in need we discover a beautiful path and a beautiful strong faith within us all. Struggle and desperate times educate people to who they really are and re-connects them with the beautiful divine
thank you Mick. That is so so true. Hugs and love xox
Amazing post. Very inspiring. Thank you. I would add that we venerate Jesus himself rather than the image. But thank you so much for sharing a very real and raw glimpse of hope. This was very timely in my life. Thanks again.
Thank you so much Stacey! I really appreciate your kind words. Glad it resonated with you. Hugs and love xox
Thanks for the inspiration. Though my recovery is from something different, I was greatly encouraged by this post. God Bless
Thank you so much friend, I’m so glad this hit home with you 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing your devotion to Jesus Christ’s Divine Mercy & your mother’s courageous faith, Caralyn, that she obviously shares with you! This really touched my heart today. What a precious gift – the prayers of our mothers. Blessings & blogging hugs! 🌷🤗🌷
Thank you so much Virginia, for your kind words. I am so inspired by my mom’s faith and love. so glad this resonated with you! Hugs and love xox
I’m really glad you listened to God and were able to step out in faith and publish this post. Although I don’t agree with many of the Catholic Church’s way of doing things, I will always agree that a mother’s prayers do indeed have an impact on her children’s lives. Thank you again for being bold and posting this inspiring piece. God bless -Joy 🙂
Thank you so much Joy! I’m so glad this hit home with you. amen to that! Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing! I admire your mom’s persistence in prayer. It is hard to watch your children fight for their lives, but she knew the battle was for your soul! She is inspiring!
Thank you so much Pamela! Yeah she inspires me every day. Hugs and love xox
A wonderful “inspiring” post on so many levels. God Bless!
Thank you so much Tylerus. Hugs and love xox
This is so beautiful! I love “churchy” posts (I love ALL your posts), they really inspire me. <3
Thank you so much! Oh my gosh you’re too kind 🙂 big hugs to you xox
Well done for being so open and honest about your deep faith! ❤️ A truly difficult thing to do in today’s world!!
Lots of love and prayers,
Edel xxx
Thank you so much Edel! I appreciate your support and prayers! Hugs and love xox
Thank you so much for sharing your truth. It truly is Jesus. You have been an inspiration to me through the Holy Spirit. Sharing your blog with as many people I can.
Thanks friend. Amen! It’s Jesus! Hugs and love xox
So interesting that you posted about John 15 – Jesus being the vine. In my weekly Bible class we studied that very Scripture and that thought – abiding in Jesus Christ. Love your blogs.
Thank you Barbara. God is good! Hugs and love xox
Excellent post! I am so thankful you shared your “churchy” article. Someone…many someones need to hear your journey. Best to you!
Thanks James, I really appreciate it. Hugs and love xox
Thank you for being so honest and vulnerable. I would have never made it through my tough trials without Jesus. Thanks for sharing! ❤️
Thanks so much Carla, I really appreciate your kind words. Hugs and love xox
Moms are pretty amazing❤️
Yes they are! Hugs and love xox
What a fantastic post! Thank you so much for sharing it! Just beautiful!
Thanks so much Tammy! Hugs and love xox
“Not even disguised as a “prayer request.”
Brilliant. There is a tendency to push our own thinking disguised as a message from God when more likely than not all we need to do is pray for the person. Mama’s wisdom amazing. And you talked about God being closest to is in our distress. Amen to that.
Thanks friend. There’s a lot of truth in that. Yes my mom is pretty awesome 🙂 Hugs and love xox
I love this
Thanks friend! Hugs and love xox
thank you for sharing! You are so lucky with your parents
Thank you friend. Yeah I definitely have been incredibly blessed. Hugs and love xox
God told St. Faustina that ‘MANKIND WILL NOT HAVE PEACE UNTIL IT TURNS WITH TRUST TO MY MERCY”
(Sr. Faustina’s Diary, p.300)
Pope John Paul II The Great Mercy Pope, gave us this image, As the great Mercy Pope, he wrote an encyclical on Divine Mercy: In his writings and homilies, he has described Divine Mercy as the answer to the world’s problems and the message of the third millennium. He beatified and canonized Sr. Maria Faustina Kowalska, the nun associated with the message, and he did it in Rome and not in Poland to underscore that Divine Mercy is for the whole world.
Establishing Divine Mercy Sunday for the Entire Church
When Pope John Paul canonized Sr. Faustina (making her St. Faustina), he also, on the same day, surprised the entire world by establishing Divine Mercy Sunday (the feast day associated with the message) as a feast day for the entire Church. The feast day falls on the Second Sunday of the Easter season. (Courtesy to the Marians of the Immaculate Conception)
(http://www.thedivinemercy.org/message/johnpaul/ )
I hope your post will bring others to the Divine Mercy Image. God bless Caralyn. <3
Thank you for sharing that! Hugs and love xox
[…] you for all the wonderful feedback on Monday’s post. Gosh I am just so grateful for the wonderful friends this crazy little blog has brought into my […]
This is beautiful! Thank you for your clear explanation of the Divine Mercy. And for writing out the I am the Vine bible verse. I haven’t thought of that in awhile, and it gives me so much strength. xx
Thank you so much Jenny!! Yeah it is a beautiful passage 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing. I too have a power-packed mum. 5ft nothing of sheer terror, I used to joke! Could sort out the Middle East with a look! But I so admire how she brought up 4 of us when she was left as a widow in her mid 30s. She took the promise that God would be a father to the orphan and protector of widows.
Thanks you so much Andrew!! That’s amazing. Hugs and love xox
What a wonderful post! I think God is sending me subtle hints and piquing my curiosity in regards to the Divine Mercy over these past few months. The timing of your post is too coincidental so I will be asking our Father to guide me in this new journey of faith. Thank you!!
Thank yo so much. I’m so glad it resonated with you!! Hugs and love xox
Thank you
Thanks Ish 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Thank you for this post! I love how you are so loud and proud Catholic. I love the Divine Mercy devotion and more importantly, I love Jesus the way you do 🙂
Thank you so much Teresa 🙂 i appreciate your encouraging words! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful church, great post.
Trust and love and where we put them.
And mothers!
Thank you so much Kreemer! yes!! Hugs and love xox
This resonates profoundly with me.
One of the common presenting issues in hypnotherapy is anorexia nervosa, and often the cause is the idea that love is conditioned upon our behavior or qualities. The feedback system around that worry is that hunger and/or exercise produce endorphins that moderate the worry, so when the worry about appearance comes up again, the subconscious returns to hunger and exercise as the known controls for the worry.
The priest showed marvelous insight in his choice of images: unconditional, divine love, regardless of past actions or current qualities.
Hi Brian, thank you so much for this response. I’m so glad it hit home with you. Yeah, the priest was – and is – one of our dear family friends. He’s a good man. Hugs and love xox
Good heavens, I read this post and realized I’ve been ignoring something great! I have the Divine Mercy image hanging up in my devotional space, St. Faustina’s book on my shelf, I keep a rosary in my pocket, and yet I’ve been completely ignoring this life-saving devotion during my current issue with depression. I think if ever was a good time to dust off St. Faustina’s book, it’s now. Thank you for the wonderful post.
Thank you so much Steven! That’s amazing. Yes! Dust that bad boy off! Hugs and love xox
I also pray and ask God to help me to write my posts. I seek his will, his direction, and then continue to pray and make sure I’m still following his will, his direction, and I make adjustments accordingly.
Thank you so much! He’s a great editor! Haha Hugs and love xox
Definitely a great editor! You can be following his will and direction then find yourself veering off course and be guided back into the direction the Spirit is leading. You can have zeal like Saul of Tarsus but not according to knowledge. Thinking you are following the Spirit of God only to find yourself corrected by the Spirit of God “And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.” (Acts 26:14-15)
yes!
I’m so glad you responded to the ‘nudge’ to write about The Image of Divine Mercy, and the Vine & the branches – I’m finding both themes really helpful…
Aw thank you so much:) they’re beautiful verses for sure. Hugs and love xox
Thank you for popping by Halieus Media and for this courageous post. You indeed were being pushed to write from my perspective; your obedience has born much fruit already! Your experience in a broader sense mirrors mine with my own mother and later with one of my children. I will admit it was hard for me to read but only because the post was overladen with my own similar experiences.
Cherish your mom, as you surely do. I wish you all peace and grace.
Thank you so much for kind words! I really appreciate you stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Every time I read your posts I get tears in my eyes. Your faith in God and your recovery are something that I admire and aspire too. I, myself, am in recovery for addiction to alcohol. Though I have been sober since 2001 I can relate to your posts and I still feel the pain of first getting sober and the things I put my parents through. It hurts my heart what I have done but it’s not who I am anymore by the grace of God. Thank you for keep me connected and grounded not only in my own program but in the catholic faith which is a huge part of my recovery. I wish I knew these things when I was your age.
Oh gosh what a kind thing to say. Thank you Adrian. And thank you for sharing your story. Keep on keeping on warrior. Hugs and love xox
You are an INCREDIBLE writer! Love how your prayer before every post! Keep on inspiring girl!! 🙏🏻
Bless God for his endless mercy towards us! May he continue to use you and restore in Jesus Name! Amen! Blessings, peace and love! <3
amen!
What a fantabulous rendition of Holy Spirit led writing! I could just hug your sweet Momma!! This is a necessary, powerful, and I think timely testimony!! Thank you so much for being obedient and bold! God bless you always!
Thank you! Hugs and love xox
Just perfect. Thank you!
Thank you John. Hugs and love xox
Wooow! Thank you for your words and your openness. This devotion is so incredibly important, and powerful. Jesus really changes hearts and heals us through his merciful love. I couldn’t be more happy to see you blogging about this and sharing how God worked his wonders in your life. St. Faustina- pray for us!
Thank you Jenny. Youre so right – jesus DOES change hearts!! Hugs and love xox