LIFE: Realize tough times and pain can help us to grow.

I like the quote, “The pain passes, but the beauty remains” by Pierre-Auguste Renoir.  He tells us that the pain that we encounter in life does not have to be a lost cause.  No one likes to go through tough, painful times but it is inevitable along our journeys.  As painful as certain seasons or situations in life can be, we tend to gain some invaluable insights, lessons, strength, and humility during those times.  

Think back to a tough time in your life and remember the lessons you learned while persevering through it.  Take note of the positive traits, lessons, or relationships that came as a result.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

WORK: Work doesn’t always bring monetary gain

1.      

In order for God to be glorified, one does not have to work in a sacred profession.  God can be glorified whether you are a plumber, clerk, or CEO.  Jesus was a carpenter.  He used his talents to build things for people.  Jesus was also a prophet.  He had a secular and sacred profession and he glorified God in both. 

In John 17:4-5 he told god that he had glorified him and finished all the work that he had given him.  Jesus was concerned about doing what his father wanted him to do. He delighted in pleasing his father, whether it be building a table or teaching in the Synagogue.

We can learn from Jesus.  God has laid out a plan for us and it is up to us to fulfill it.  As we do, we glorify him and he is pleased.  How do we know what his plan is?  Pray and ask him.  Be led by his spirit. Take time to get to know God’s voice. 

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

MARRIAGE: Intimacy

Intimacy is a spiritual, emotional, and physical giving of oneself to another and it is a beautiful thing.  God created us with a desire to be intimate and we long to share intimacy with another. God loves intimacy as well and longs for an intimate relationship with us.  Sharing a deep closeness and love with another is so rewarding.

As we share intimate time with our spouse, we are allowing God’s love to flow through us into each other.  It is an amazing experience and the depth of intimacy can grow to great heights as we commit to fostering intimacy.  Devote time to develop a greater intimacy with God as well as your spouse and take time daily to nurture your relationships.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

LIFE: Practice meditation/enjoy nature

God sure did create an amazingly beautiful earth.  I encourage you to get out into nature and enjoy the beauty and serenity found in creation.  Breathe deeply and enjoy a time of rest from everything.  Learn the art of meditation and prayer.  Life can get so busy and our minds seem to always be churning with a hundred thoughts at once. 

It is important to take time daily, even if just for a few moments, to go to a quiet location and quiet yourself.  Take a walk in the woods or sit outside on your deck.  Take a vacation to the beach or wherever you can find peace and nature.  Meditation, silence and prayer are all ways to refresh your spirit and to become a more pleasant, positive person.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved