Did You Plan This?

I don't believe in coincidences. I am constantly amazed at God's planning, even to the littlest detail. Sure, atheists can write off all the little ways God perfectly plans things to work out for our good--they call it "karma", but if you have faith, there is no doubt that God's hand is in everything.

I've borrowed a bunch of "boring" movies from my parents. I call them boring because I know they would never make it to the date night list. Eric would end up falling asleep for sure! I know they are good to watch, but let's face it, they just not that entertaining. Ghandi, Mother Theresa, Pope John Paul II, St. Peter, The Thirteenth Day (I was looking forward to this one), Queen Ester (this one ended up being a good romance movie), The Five People You Meet in Heaven..that's all I can think off the top of my head. I was really putting off watching St. Peter, but last night while I was working on a new Sacred Heart bead, something prompted me to put in the movie.  I was pleasantly surprised it was about what happened after Jesus' death. I have such a poor knowledge of Biblical history and Church history, so it was very good for me to watch how the new church got its roots. The part that I know God wanted me to see was about how St. Peter felt after he denied Jesus and how much he really did love Jesus in the end.

And wouldn't you know it, that's what Sunday's Gospel is all about! I sat in Church tonight with my mouth half open at the impeccable timing of God.   Father's homily helped me further to understand the implications of this Gospel reading for my life.  Jesus didn't ask Peter why he denied him (something I would have done), or lay into him about how terrible of a thing he did (something I definitely would have done)-- all he asked was if he loved him.  God doesn't dwell on our sins. He forgives and forgets. The only thing God is interested in is how much we love him.

Also very good timing that I am remaking the Sacred Heart bead.  Could this guy love us anymore??? Jesus' heart is on flame for us- and in the end, it's all about love.

Pictures of the Sacred Heart bead tomorrow... Have a blessed Sunday!