What are Strongholds?…

"The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ".  (2 Corinthians 10:4-5 NIV) "Strongholds" are …

Candles…

"...He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire..." (Luke 3:16) I go fairly frequently to Eucharistic Adoration, where quiet prayer and silent worship happens in various chapels and churches.  It's a rather extraordinary experience: very moving, where one senses the actual presence of Jesus.  While I'm there, just being quiet, I often …

Recognizing Blessings…

"Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, RSV) It's easy to see the good things that come into my life as blessings from God.  It's 'way harder to recognize the "bad stuff" - problems, frustrations, my own and …