Category: Spiritual Blogs

A blog with a Spiritual content.

The More We Become Like Christ, the Happier We Are
Why Christlike Living Brings Happiness

In a world constantly chasing happiness through success, possessions, and fleeting pleasures, many find themselves still searching—still unsatisfied. Yet, the message at the heart of Christianity offers a radically different path: true and lasting joy is found in becoming more like Jesus Christ.

This idea may sound simple, even familiar. But its depth is life-changing. The more our thoughts, actions, and hearts align with Christ, the more we experience a profound, unshakable happiness that the world cannot give—or take away.

What Does It Mean to Become Like Christ?

Becoming like Christ doesn’t mean perfection—it means transformation. It is a daily process of growing in qualities that Jesus embodied:
- Love – showing genuine care for others, even when it’s difficult
- Compassion – reaching out to those in need
- Humility – putting others before ourselves
- Forgiveness – letting go of bitterness and extending grace
- Faith – trusting God even when life is uncertain
These traits are not just moral ideals; they are the building blocks of a joyful life.

Why Christlike Living Brings Happiness

1. It Aligns Us with Our True Purpose

We are created with a spiritual purpose. When we live in harmony with Christ’s teachings, we step into that purpose—and purpose brings deep satisfaction.

2. It Frees Us from Destructive Emotions

Anger, envy, pride, and resentment weigh heavily on the soul. Christlike attributes—especially forgiveness and humility—release us from these burdens, making room for peace.

3. It Strengthens Relationships

Love and compassion transform how we interact with others. As we become more Christlike, our relationships become healthier, deeper, and more meaningful.

4. It Brings Inner Peace

Even in trials, those who follow Christ often experience a quiet confidence and calm. This peace is not dependent on circumstances—it is rooted in faith.

The Journey, Not Perfection

It’s important to remember: becoming like Christ is a journey, not a destination achieved overnight. There will be setbacks, doubts, and struggles. But every small step—every act of kindness, every moment of patience—moves us closer.

God does not expect perfection; He invites progress.

How to Grow Closer to Christ Daily

Here are simple, practical ways to grow:
- Pray daily – Speak honestly with God and listen in stillness
- Study scripture – Learn from Christ’s words and example
- Serve others – Look for opportunities to help, even in small ways
- Reflect regularly – Ask yourself how you can improve and grow
- Practice gratitude – Recognize blessings and cultivate joy
These habits gradually shape the heart and bring us closer to Christ’s character.

A Joy That Lasts

Happiness that depends on circumstances is temporary. But the joy that comes from becoming more like Christ is enduring. It grows deeper over time, rooted in love, faith, and eternal perspective.

As we strive to follow His example, we don’t just become better people—we become happier people.happiness,

And in that transformation, we discover a truth both simple and profound:

The closer we come to Christ, the closer we come to true joy.

Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
April 9, 2026
The Resurrection
He is Risen

Rejoice—He Is Risen

The Resurrection stands at the very heart of the Christian faith. On the third day after His crucifixion, Jesus Christ rose from the dead, conquering sin and death once and for all. This miraculous event is not only a moment in history—it is the foundation of hope, redemption, and eternal life for all who believe.

The empty tomb proclaims a powerful truth: death could not hold Him. The stone was rolled away, not to let Jesus out, but to let the world witness that He had risen in glory.

The Gift of Salvation

Through His sacrifice on the cross and His victory in the Resurrection, Jesus paid the price for our salvation. Humanity, once separated from God by sin, has now been offered reconciliation through Him.

This gift, however, is not forced upon us. Scripture teaches that we are called to:
- Believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior
- Be baptized as a sign of faith and new life
- Follow His commandments with love and obedience
By embracing this path, we enter into a relationship with God that transforms our lives both now and forever.

The Promise of Eternal Life

The Resurrection is not only about what happened to Jesus—it is about what it means for us. Because He lives, we too are promised life beyond the grave.

Those who follow Him are assured of eternal life in Heaven, in the presence of:
- God the Father
- The Son, Jesus Christ
- The Holy Spirit
- The angels and the saints
This is the ultimate hope: a life filled with peace, joy, and communion with God, free from suffering and sin.

Living the Resurrection Today

The message of the Resurrection calls us to live differently. It invites us to walk in faith, love one another, forgive freely, and reflect the light of Christ in our daily lives.

Easter is not just a day—it is a way of living. Every act of kindness, every moment of faith, and every step toward righteousness becomes a testimony that Jesus is alive.

A Joyful Proclamation

Let us rejoice and proclaim with confidence:

He is risen! He is risen indeed!

May this truth fill your heart with hope, strengthen your faith, and guide your journey toward eternal life.

Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

Rick Herring
April 5, 2026
Holy Saturday: The Quiet Between Death and Resurrection
Holy Saturday: The Time of Waiting on the Lord

Introduction

Holy Saturday is one of the most mysterious and often overlooked days in the Christian calendar. Falling between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, it is a day of silence, waiting, and deep reflection. While the world moves quickly toward celebration, Holy Saturday invites believers to pause in the stillness—the moment when hope seems hidden, yet is quietly unfolding.

What Is Holy Saturday?

Holy Saturday commemorates the day when Jesus Christ lay in the tomb after His crucifixion. According to Christian tradition, it is a time when the earth itself seemed to hold its breath.

Unlike the sorrow of Good Friday or the joy of Easter Sunday, Holy Saturday exists in between—a sacred pause. It reflects a powerful spiritual truth: even when nothing appears to be happening, transformation may already be underway.

The Meaning of the Silence

Holy Saturday is marked by silence. Churches are often dim, altars are bare, and there are no major daytime liturgies. This absence is intentional.

It represents:
- Grief and mourning of Jesus’ death
- Uncertainty and waiting experienced by His followers
- Trust in God’s promise, even without visible evidence
For many, this day mirrors personal seasons of waiting—times when answers are not immediate and faith must endure in the quiet.

The Easter Vigil: Light in the Darkness

After sunset, Holy Saturday transitions into one of the most beautiful traditions in Christianity: the Easter Vigil.

During this service:
- A new fire is kindled in darkness
- The Paschal candle is lit, symbolizing Christ as the Light of the World
- Scripture readings recount God’s saving acts throughout history
- The celebration of resurrection begins
The vigil moves from darkness to light, capturing the journey from despair to hope—a central theme of the Christian faith.

Why Holy Saturday Still Matters Today

In a fast-paced world, Holy Saturday offers a rare and meaningful invitation: to wait.

It reminds us that:
- Not all answers come immediately
- Growth often happens unseen
- Faith is sometimes strongest in silence
Whether one observes it through prayer, reflection, or quiet time, Holy Saturday speaks to anyone who has ever felt “in between”—between loss and healing, doubt and belief, endings and new beginnings.

Conclusion

Holy Saturday may be quiet, but it is far from empty. It is a sacred space where grief meets hope, and where stillness prepares the way for joy. As the darkness gives way to the light of Easter Sunday, believers are reminded that even in the silence, God is at work.

Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

Rick Herring
thmjmj
April 4, 2026
The Stations of the Cross

Today, Holy Saturday, there is no Mass untill Sunday as Jesus’ Body is in the tomb, So at 7AM EWTM aired Pope Leo IV as he carried the cross as he visited the fourteen Stations of the Cross

If you want to know God, look at the Crucifix.
If you want to love God, look at the Crucifix.
If you want to know the infinite, eternal love of God, look at the Crucifix.
If you wish to have a part in giving that same love to others,. look at the Crucifix.
If you want to know who you are and your worth, look at the Crucifix.
If you want to know how you were saved from the jaws of hell, look at the Crucifix.
Ift you want to know how much God wants to save your immortal soul, look at the Crucifix.
If you know who will lead you into Heaven, look at the Crucifix.
If you want to live well, look at the Crucifix.
If you want to die well, look at the Crucifix.
If you want to spend eternity in Heaven with your eternal Father, look at the Crucifix.

For by the Crucifiction and Resurrection of Jesus, we have been given eternal life. Cherish it. Thank God for it. Live well so you can enjoy it.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

April 4, 2026
The Fifth Sorrowful Mystery: The Crucifixion
The Price Paid for our Redemption

Introduction

The Fifth Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary—the Crucifixion—stands at the heart of Christian faith. It is the moment where suffering, sacrifice, love, and redemption converge. Meditating on this mystery invites us not only to remember Christ’s death, but to understand its profound meaning for humanity.

The Journey to Calvary

After enduring scourging and mockery, Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha—the “Place of the Skull.” Weak from suffering, He stumbled along the way, yet continued forward in obedience to the Father’s will.

This journey reminds us that suffering is often part of life’s path. Yet, like Christ, we are called to persevere with faith, trusting that even pain can have purpose.

The Crucifixion

At Golgotha, Jesus was nailed to the cross—hands and feet pierced, body lifted between heaven and earth. Above Him was placed the inscription: “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.”

Despite unimaginable agony, His words from the cross reveal divine mercy:
- “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
- “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
- “It is finished.”
These words echo through history, offering forgiveness, hope, and fulfillment.

The Meaning of the Cross

The Crucifixion is not merely a moment of death—it is the ultimate act of love. Christians believe that through His sacrifice, Jesus took upon Himself the sins of the world, opening the path to salvation.

The cross, once a symbol of shame, becomes a sign of victory:
- Victory over sin
- Victory over death
- Victory through love
A Call to Reflection

Meditating on the Fifth Sorrowful Mystery invites us to reflect on our own lives:
- How do we respond to suffering?
- Can we forgive as Christ forgave?
- Are we willing to carry our crosses with faith?
The Crucifixion teaches that love often requires sacrifice, and that even in darkness, there is hope.

Conclusion

The Fifth Sorrowful Mystery is both solemn and transformative. It reminds us that through Christ’s suffering came redemption, and through His death came the promise of new life.

In contemplating the Crucifixion, we are invited not only to remember—but to be changed.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmailo.com
April 3, 2026
We all Live in the Disgration of God

In the Discretion of God

Last night, I was speaking with my sister about a priest who had planned to retire at the age of seventy-five. He had given years of faithful service and, by all expectations, was ready to step away from ministry. Yet, because he served at the discretion of his bishop, his plans changed. Instead of retiring, he was assigned to pastor a startup church—beginning again when he thought he was finished.

That conversation stayed with me.

This morning, I woke up with a deeper realization: we all serve at the discretion of God. Not at our own timing, not according to our own carefully arranged plans, but according to His will. And if we are honest, that truth is both humbling and unsettling.

Scripture reminds us of this reality in powerful ways. When Judas left the Last Supper, it is written that the devil had already entered him as he went out to betray the Lord. Even in that moment—dark, painful, and seemingly out of control—God’s greater purpose was unfolding. Nothing was outside His authority.

This truth became even more personal this week.

My sister had planned to retire after thirty-six years of banking. It was meant to be a joyful milestone. After decades of working alongside the same people, there were surely plans for celebration, reflection, and closure. But life had other plans.

Her husband suffered a heart attack.

Instead of enjoying her final days at work, she spent her next-to-last day driving to Oklahoma City and sitting in a hospital room through the night. He received a stent, and by April 2nd, they returned home to Atoka, Oklahoma. What was supposed to be a week of celebration became a week of crisis, care, and uncertainty.

And yet, in that disruption, there was a greater truth revealed: no matter how much we plan, God is in charge.

We map out our lives with timelines and expectations. We anticipate milestones and transitions. But in a moment, everything can shift. Not because God has lost control—but because He never relinquished it in the first place.

Even Jesus Christ Himself lived in complete submission to the Father’s will. He did not act independently of God’s purpose. He walked a path that led through suffering—His Passion, His crucifixion, and ultimately His resurrection. From a human perspective, it may have looked like tragedy or defeat. But in God’s plan, it was redemption.

If Jesus, the Son, lived and served according to the Father’s will, how much more must we?

We may not always understand why our plans are interrupted. We may not see the purpose behind sudden changes or painful circumstances. But we can trust that nothing is wasted in God’s hands.

The priest who thought he was retiring found himself beginning anew. My sister who expected celebration found herself in a hospital. And in both stories, there is a common thread: God’s authority overrides our expectations.

We do not serve at our own discretion.

We serve at His.

And in that truth, there is both surrender—and peace.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

April 3, 2026
Holy Thursday: The Last Supper
The First Priest are Ordained and Commissioned

Introduction

Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, marks one of the most profound moments in the Christian calendar. Observed during Holy Week, it commemorates the Last Supper—Jesus Christ’s final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion. This sacred event is not only a historical remembrance but a living tradition that continues to shape Christian faith, worship, and understanding of love and service.

The Setting of the Last Supper

The Last Supper took place in Jerusalem on the night before Jesus was arrested. Gathered with His twelve disciples, Jesus shared a Passover meal that would take on new and eternal meaning. What seemed like a traditional observance quickly became a defining moment in Christian theology.

During this meal, Jesus spoke openly about His impending suffering and betrayal. Yet, instead of fear or despair, He demonstrated humility, compassion, and divine purpose.

The Institution of the Eucharist

One of the most significant acts of the Last Supper was the institution of the Eucharist (Holy Communion). Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “This is my body.” He then took a cup of wine and said, “This is my blood of the covenant.”

This moment established a central sacrament in Christian life. Through the Eucharist, believers remember Christ’s sacrifice and participate in a spiritual union with Him. It is a ritual of remembrance, gratitude, and renewal that continues in churches around the world.

A Lesson in Humility: Washing of the Feet

Another powerful act during the Last Supper was Jesus washing His disciples’ feet. In a culture where this task was reserved for servants, Jesus reversed expectations by serving others in the most humble way.

This act symbolized love in action—selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. It also established a model for Christian living: leadership through service. Many churches reenact this ritual on Holy Thursday as a reminder of humility and compassion.

Betrayal and Love Intertwined

During the meal, Jesus revealed that one of His disciples would betray Him. Despite knowing this, He continued to share bread and fellowship with all present, including Judas. This moment reflects the depth of divine love—offered even in the face of betrayal.

The Last Supper, therefore, is not only about sacred rituals but also about forgiveness, grace, and the complexity of human relationships.

The Commandment of Love

The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning “commandment.” On this night, Jesus gave a new commandment:

“Love one another as I have loved you.”

This teaching lies at the heart of Holy Thursday. It calls believers to embody Christ’s love through kindness, sacrifice, and unity.

Holy Thursday Today

Today, Holy Thursday is observed with solemn church services that often include:
- The celebration of the Eucharist
- The washing of feet ceremony
- The stripping of the altar, symbolizing Jesus’ abandonment
The atmosphere is reflective and reverent, preparing believers for the sorrow of Good Friday and the hope of Easter Sunday.

Conclusion

Holy Thursday invites us into the intimate and transformative moments of the Last Supper. It is a day that speaks of love expressed through service, sacrifice shared through communion, and faith grounded in humility.

As we remember this sacred evening, we are called not only to reflect—but to live out its message: to love deeply, serve willingly, and walk faithfully in the path set by Christ.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
April 2, 2026
The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery: The Carrying of the Cross
The Fruit of the Mystery is Patience

Introduction

The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary invites us into one of the most physically and spiritually intense moments of Christ’s Passion: Jesus carrying His cross to Calvary. This scene is not only a historical event but a deeply personal call to every believer—to walk with Christ in suffering, humility, and perseverance.

The Biblical Scene

After being scourged and crowned with thorns, Jesus is forced to carry the heavy wooden cross through the streets of Jerusalem toward Golgotha. Weak from pain and loss of blood, He stumbles under its weight. The soldiers compel Simon of Cyrene to help Him carry the cross, while the crowd watches—some mocking, others mourning.

This journey, known as the Via Dolorosa, represents not only Christ’s physical suffering but also His unwavering obedience to the Father’s will.

Spiritual Meaning

The Carrying of the Cross reveals several profound truths:

1. The Weight of Sin

The cross symbolizes the burden of humanity’s sins—past, present, and future—that Jesus willingly carries.

2. Human Weakness and Divine Strength

Jesus falls multiple times, reminding us that even in weakness, grace sustains us.

3. Shared Suffering

Simon of Cyrene’s involvement teaches that we are called to help one another carry life’s burdens.

A Reflection for Our Lives

Each of us has a cross to carry—whether it be illness, loss, struggle, or daily hardship. This mystery challenges us to ask:
- Do I accept my cross with faith and trust?
- Do I help others carry their burdens?
- Can I find meaning in suffering by uniting it with Christ?
Jesus does not carry the cross alone—and neither should we.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, as You carried Your cross to Calvary, You embraced the weight of my sins and the suffering of the world. Teach me to carry my own cross with patience and love. Help me to support others in their struggles, just as Simon helped You. Grant me the strength to follow You faithfully, even when the road is difficult. Amen.

Conclusion

The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery is a powerful meditation on endurance, compassion, and sacrificial love. In contemplating Christ’s journey to Calvary, we are invited not only to witness His suffering but to transform our own lives through it.

May we walk beside Him—not only in sorrow, but in hope—knowing that the cross always leads to resurrection.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
April 2, 2026
Spy Wednesday: A Sacred Day of Reflection in the Catholic Faith
The Betrayal of Jesus

In the rhythm of the Catholic liturgical year, Wednesday of Holy Week carries a unique and somber title: Spy Wednesday. Though less widely discussed than Good Friday or Easter Sunday, this day holds deep spiritual significance rooted in betrayal, reflection, and preparation for the Paschal Mystery.

Why Is It Called “Spy Wednesday”?

The name “Spy Wednesday” comes from the Gospel accounts describing Judas Iscariot’s decision to betray Jesus. On this day, Judas secretly meets with the chief priests and agrees to hand Jesus over in exchange for thirty pieces of silver.

The term “spy” refers to Judas acting in secrecy—watching, waiting, and looking for the right moment to betray Christ.

“What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” — Matthew 26:15

This moment marks a turning point in Holy Week, setting into motion the events that lead to the Passion and Crucifixion.

Spiritual Meaning of Spy Wednesday

Spy Wednesday invites Catholics into a deeper examination of the heart. It is a day that asks difficult but necessary questions:
- Where have I been unfaithful in my relationship with God?
- Have I chosen convenience, fear, or selfishness over truth?
- How can I return to Christ with sincerity?
Rather than focusing only on Judas’ betrayal, the Church encourages believers to see themselves in the story—recognizing human weakness, but also the opportunity for repentance and grace.

Themes of the Day

1. Betrayal and Sin

Judas’ actions remind us that even those closest to Jesus can fall. Sin often begins quietly, in hidden choices that grow over time.

2. God’s Mercy

Unlike Judas, who despaired, Catholics are reminded that God’s mercy is always available. No betrayal is beyond redemption when met with true repentance.

3. Preparation for the Triduum

Spy Wednesday serves as a spiritual bridge leading into:
- Holy Thursday (The Last Supper)
- Good Friday (The Passion)
- Easter Sunday (The Resurrection)
Traditional Practices

While not a holy day of obligation, many Catholics observe Spy Wednesday in meaningful ways:
- Attending Tenebrae services (a solemn liturgy of shadows and extinguished candles)
- Receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation
- Fasting or simplifying meals
- Reading the Passion narratives from the Gospels
- Spending time in quiet prayer and reflection
A Message for Today

In a fast-paced world filled with distractions, Spy Wednesday offers a moment to pause and confront the reality of our choices. It reminds us that betrayal is not just a historical event—it is something that can happen in subtle ways in our daily lives.

But more importantly, it points us toward hope.

Even in the shadow of betrayal, God’s plan for salvation continues. Spy Wednesday prepares our hearts to enter the Sacred Triduum with humility, awareness, and renewed faith.

Conclusion

Spy Wednesday is not merely about Judas—it is about the human condition, the reality of sin, and the boundless mercy of God. As we reflect on this day, we are invited to turn back to Christ, not with fear, but with trust.

In doing so, we prepare ourselves to fully experience the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday.

May this Spy Wednesday be a time of honest reflection and a step closer to grace.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
April 2, 2026
The Third Sorrowful Mystery: The Crowning with Thorns
Humiliation

A Mystery of Silent Strength

The Third Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary invites us into one of the most painful and humiliating moments of Christ’s Passion: the Crowning with Thorns. After being scourged, Jesus is mocked by Roman soldiers who twist together a crown of sharp thorns and press it into His head. They drape Him in a purple cloak, place a reed in His hand, and jeer, “Hail, King of the Jews.”

This mystery is not only about physical suffering—it reveals the depth of human cruelty and the profound humility of Christ.

The Scene of Mockery and Pain

Imagine the scene: exhausted, wounded, and bleeding, Jesus stands surrounded by soldiers who ridicule Him. The crown, meant as a cruel parody of kingship, digs into His scalp. Each thorn pierces His skin, causing intense pain. Yet He does not resist.

In this moment, Christ embodies a kingship unlike any other—one not of power, but of sacrificial love.

A Lesson in Humility

The Crowning with Thorns teaches us about humility in the face of humiliation. Jesus, though truly King, accepts mockery without retaliation. He shows us that true greatness is not found in domination or pride, but in love, patience, and self-giving.

This mystery challenges us to reflect:
- How do we respond when we are misunderstood or ridiculed?
- Do we seek recognition, or do we quietly serve?
- Can we remain gentle when faced with injustice?
The Fruit of the Mystery: Moral Courage

Meditating on this mystery helps cultivate moral courage—the strength to stand firm in truth and goodness even when it is difficult. Jesus does not abandon His mission, even under extreme suffering. His silence is not weakness; it is purposeful and redemptive.

We are invited to imitate this courage in our daily lives:
- To stand for what is right, even when unpopular
- To endure hardship with faith
- To resist the temptation of pride and ego
A Prayerful Reflection

As we pray this mystery, we might say:

Lord Jesus, crowned with thorns, teach me to be humble.
Help me to endure trials with patience and to trust in Your love.
Give me the courage to follow You, even when the path is difficult.

Conclusion

The Crowning with Thorns is a powerful reminder that Christ’s The Third Sorrowful Mystery: The Crowning with Thorn

The Humility of Jesus is beyond comperhension

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
April 2, 2026