Blog

  • The Resurrection

    He is Risen

    https://photos.smugmug.com/Easter/i-kfGH779/0/K6HqGPXnj3kvzCNcL8WjJ9bsTxpLFxkJMC9DRm5wQ/XL/Religion_1282-XL.jpg
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/07/Annibale_Carracci%2C_Resurrezione%2C_Louvre.jpg/960px-Annibale_Carracci%2C_Resurrezione%2C_Louvre.jpg
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/49/Brooklyn_Museum_-_The_Women_at_the_Sepulchre_%28The_Angel_at_the_Tomb_of_Christ%29_-_Benjamin_West_-_overall.jpg

    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

    https://png.pngtree.com/thumb_back/fw800/background/20250802/pngtree-three-crosses-on-the-hill-of-calvary-silhouette-against-a-colorful-image_17692441.webp
    https://elements-resized.envatousercontent.com/elements-video-cover-images/files/03d594df-b430-4b8d-a989-1c2a27f0f25e/inline_image_preview.jpg?cf_fit=cover&format=auto&q=85&s=e4591591a63566cf5d6decb2cf46ad5517e29607d862db1946942004410fa104&w=500
    https://photos.peopleimages.com/picture/202404/3054286-open-bible-shine-and-light-on-table-with-salvation-from-heaven-knowledge-and-trust-in-jesus-holy-story-religion-study-and-sunlight-on-scripture-for-spiritual-healing-guidance-and-prayer-to-god-fit_400_400.jpg

    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

    https://i5.walmartimages.com/seo/CozyNet-An-Angel-Holding-A-Harp-Surrounded-By-Golden-Light-In-Heavenly-Clouds-Wall-Art-Prints-With-Frame-Canvas-Perfect-Living-Room-Bedroom-Ready-Han_86d7b128-8c0b-4894-874a-1386bc2b57fc.7b04fae941e725ea2a4847e1607076ae.jpeg?odnBg=FFFFFF&odnHeight=768&odnWidth=768
    https://stainedglassinc.com/glass/full/14449.jpg
    https://png.pngtree.com/thumb_back/fh260/background/20240914/pngtree-stairway-to-heaven-divine-light-in-the-clouds-image_16205132.jpg

    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

  • AI Lead Generation for Affiliate Marketing Beginners

    The 7-System Autopilot Blueprint That Builds Your First 1,000 Leads While You Sleep


    Something Has Quietly Changed… and Most People Haven’t Noticed

    There was a time when affiliate marketing felt like a grind. Endless posting. Guesswork. Waiting weeks—sometimes months—for a single lead.

    That time is over.

    Right now, beginners—people with no audience, no experience, no real “marketing background”—are building systems that pull in leads while they sleep. Not because they’re smarter. Not because they’re lucky.

    Because they’ve learned how to work with Artificial Intelligence instead of against the chaos.

    And here’s the part that stings a little:
    Most people are still treating AI like a tool.

    The ones getting results? They’re building systems.

    Search engines have evolved. Content has evolved. Even human attention has evolved. Platforms powered by RankBrain and BERT don’t reward noise anymore—they reward alignment. Precision. Depth.

    So the real question isn’t “How do I use AI?”

    It’s:
    How do I build something that works… even when I’m not?

    That’s what this blueprint is about.


    What AI Lead Generation Actually Means (Without the Fluff)

    At its simplest, AI lead generation for affiliate marketing is about using intelligent systems to attract the right people, capture their interest, and guide them—quietly, consistently—toward a decision.

    No chasing. No cold messaging marathons.

    Just a flow.

    A stranger lands on your page.
    They see something that feels… relevant.
    They opt in.
    They get emails that sound like they were written just for them.
    And eventually, they buy.

    Behind the scenes, a few key pieces are working together:

    • AI tools shaping your content and messaging
    • Funnels turning attention into action
    • Email systems building trust over time
    • Traffic sources feeding the machine
    • Affiliate offers completing the loop

    It’s not magic. But when it’s built right, it feels like it.


    The 7-System Blueprint: Where Everything Starts to Click

    Think of this less like a checklist—and more like an ecosystem. Each part feeds the next. Remove one, and the whole thing weakens.

    But when they’re all in place?
    Momentum takes over.


    1. The Funnel — Where Curiosity Becomes Commitment

    This is your first impression. Your digital handshake.

    A clean landing page. A simple promise. A reason to stay.

    No clutter. No confusion. Just a clear path forward.

    The best funnels don’t overwhelm—they guide. They meet someone exactly where they are and quietly say, “You’re in the right place.”

    And when that happens, conversions don’t feel forced. They feel natural.


    2. The Words — Your Invisible Sales Force

    You can have the best funnel in the world… but if your words fall flat, nothing moves.

    This is where AI starts to shine—especially when powered by Natural Language Processing.

    It helps you find angles you might not see. Phrases that resonate. Structures that hold attention just a little longer.

    But here’s the nuance most people miss:

    AI doesn’t replace your voice. It sharpens it.

    The real power comes when you blend machine precision with human instinct.


    3. The Conversation — Always On, Always Listening

    People don’t always convert the first time they land on a page.

    Sometimes they hesitate. Sometimes they have questions they won’t ask.

    This is where AI chat systems step in—not as scripts, but as conversations.

    They respond. They guide. They remove friction.

    And slowly, almost invisibly, they turn curiosity into trust.


    4. The Traffic — Feeding the System

    No traffic, no leads. Simple as that.

    But traffic isn’t just about volume anymore—it’s about alignment.

    • Search content that answers real questions
    • Short-formtraffic, posts that spark interest
    • Ads that test and validate quickly

    The goal isn’t to be everywhere. It’s to be exactly where your audience is already looking.


    5. The Emails — Where Trust Actually Happens

    This is where everything slows down—in a good way.

    Email isn’t about blasting offers. It’s about building a relationship, one message at a time.

    A good sequence feels like a conversation that unfolds naturally:

    • First, you help
    • Then, you relate
    • Eventually, you recommend

    And because AI can track behavior—clicks, opens, timing—it helps you adjust without guessing.

    Your emails become less like broadcasts… and more like responses.


    6. The Data — Your Quiet Advantage

    Every click tells a story.

    What someone reads. Where they stop. What they ignore.

    Most people overlook this. They build once and hope it works.

    But when you start paying attention—really paying attention—you begin to see patterns.

    And those patterns?
    They show you exactly where to improve.


    7. The Optimization — Where Growth Becomes Inevitable

    This is the layer that changes everything.

    Instead of wondering what to fix, you know.
    Instead of guessing what to scale, you see it clearly.

    Small tweaks compound.
    Better headlines. Cleaner pages. Smarter targeting.

    Over time, the system stops feeling fragile… and starts feeling inevitable.


    Building Your First AI Lead System (Faster Than You Think)

    You don’t need months to get started. You don’t need perfection either.

    You just need movement.

    Start here: Pick an offer that solves a real problem.
    If it doesn’t feel useful, it won’t convert.

    Create something small but valuable.
    A guide. A checklist. A simple resource that makes someone’s life easier.

    Build a basic funnel.
    One page. One form. One clear outcome.

    Write a short email sequence.
    Think of it as a conversation, not a campaign.

    Send traffic. Watch what happens. Adjust.

    That’s it.

    No complexity. Just momentum.


    The Mistakes That Quietly Stall Everything

    They’re easy to make—and even easier to miss.

    Trying to automate before understanding.
    If the foundation is weak, automation just spreads the problem faster.

    Chasing traffic without intent.
    Not all clicks are equal. The right audience matters more than volume.

    Ignoring what the data is telling you.
    Your system is always giving feedback. The question is whether you’re listening.


    When Things Start to Scale

    There’s a moment—usually subtle—when things begin to shift.

    Leads come in more consistently.
    Emails start converting without constant tweaking.
    Traffic feels less random.

    That’s when you lean in.

    You expand your content.
    You refine your funnel.
    You double down on what’s working.

    And slowly, your system stops feeling like an experiment… and starts feeling like an asset.


    The Questions You’re Probably Already Asking

    “Can I really do this as a beginner?”
    Yes—but not by overcomplicating it. Simplicity wins early.

    “How long before I see results?”
    Faster than you think with paid traffic. Slower—but more powerful—with SEO.

    “Do I need technical skills?”
    Not anymore. Most tools are built for people starting from zero.

    “What actually makes the biggest difference?”
    Clarity. Knowing who you’re helping and why they should care.


    Products / Tools / Resources

    If you’re serious about building an AI-driven lead generation system, these are worth exploring—not as magic solutions, but as leverage:

    • AI copywriting platforms for emails, ads, and landing pages
    • Funnel builders with drag-and-drop simplicity
    • Email marketing tools with automation and segmentation
    • AI chatbot systems for real-time engagement
    • Keyword and SEO research tools for traffic strategy
    • Analytics platforms that show what’s actually working

    The key isn’t stacking tools—it’s choosing a few that fit your system… and using them well.

    Click Here to get started building your greatest asset. Your email list.

    To Your Success,

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • You Feel It, Don’t You… Something Isn’t Right

    There’s a quiet frustration that most people can’t quite explain.

    You wake up motivated…
    You try different strategies…
    You chase leads, watch trainings, and follow the “gurus.”

    But somehow—you’re still stuck.

    If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

    The Harsh Truth About Online Success

    Most people in the online business world are spinning their wheels.

    They’re:

    • Constantly hunting for new leads
    • Struggling to grow a downline
    • Burning time and money on strategies that don’t scale

    And worst of all?

    They’re doing everything manually.

    That’s the real problem.

    Because in today’s world, manual effort alone just doesn’t cut it anymore.

    What If There Was Another Way?

    Now imagine this instead:

    • Your leads are generated automatically
    • Your list grows daily—without chasing anyone
    • Your team expands… even while you sleep
    • Your system works 24/7

    Sounds unrealistic?

    That’s exactly what people said about automation—until AI changed everything.

    Enter the AI Matrix Spillover System

    👉 https://jmjthm.aimatrixspillover.com/

    The AI Matrix Spillover is being positioned as an automated system designed to:

    • Build your email list
    • Grow your downline
    • Generate recurring income

    …all with minimal hands-on effort.

    In fact, promoters claim it leverages AI to handle repetitive tasks and accelerate growth—turning what used to take months into something that happens on autopilot.

    Why Everyone Is Talking About “Spillover”

    The concept of “spillover” is simple but powerful:

    When people join a system before you or above you, their activity can benefit you—helping fill your structure faster.

    Combine that with AI automation, and you get something designed to scale exponentially instead of linearly.

    That’s why early adopters are paying attention.

    But Here’s What You Should Know

    Before jumping in, it’s important to understand both sides.

    Some reviews suggest that systems like this operate similarly to multi-level marketing structures, where earnings depend heavily on recruitment.

    That doesn’t automatically make it bad—but it does mean you should:

    • Do your research
    • Understand the compensation model
    • Know exactly how income is generated

    The Real Opportunity

    Whether you’re skeptical or curious, one thing is clear:

    AI is changing the game.

    Businesses that leverage automation and intelligent systems are gaining a massive edge over those still doing everything manually.

    And systems like AI Matrix Spillover are tapping into that shift.

    So… What’s Your Next Move?

    You can keep doing what you’ve always done…

    Or you can explore something different.

    👉 Watch the full video here: https://aimatrixspillover.com/members/page/aimatrixspillover_welcome

    Because sometimes…

    That feeling you have—that something isn’t right—

    Is actually your signal that it’s time to change.


    Click Here to learn more.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • Holy Saturday: The Quiet Between Death and Resurrection

    Holy Saturday: The Time of Waiting on the Lord

    https://static1.squarespace.com/static/600c4409f694483df73bbf66/6092e033061a5e238d8c9b0a/6092e046061a5e238d8c9d4b/1620238406590/tissoTheWatchOvertheTomb.jpg?format=original
    https://pstzinogenesis.files.wordpress.com/2015/04/3_1_.jpg?crop=1&h=331&w=660
    https://sspx.org/sites/default/files/styles/content_image_16_9_desktop/public/drupal-7/easter_vigil_lumen_christi460.jpg?itok=HiefTEoB

    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

    https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/60f48e06-1a7f-4608-90e1-3470cc7bb0e3.61714a15a25dd343cb6e8ef1c4f5216c.jpeg?odnBg=FFFFFF&odnHeight=768&odnWidth=768
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/37/Altare_l%C3%A5ngfredagen_Hedvig_Eleonora_kyrka%2C_Stockholm.jpg/250px-Altare_l%C3%A5ngfredagen_Hedvig_Eleonora_kyrka%2C_Stockholm.jpg
    https://www.toledoblade.com/image/2025/12/24/1140x_a10-7_cTC/XmasEve25-20251224040.jpg

    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

    https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/%24s_%21orIL%21%2Cf_auto%2Cq_auto%3Agood%2Cfl_progressive%3Asteep/https%3A%2F%2Fbucketeer-e05bbc84-baa3-437e-9518-adb32be77984.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F6d51f1f5-4850-4cae-a954-7725d32d63a5_2222x1482.png
    https://vanpoulles.co.uk/cdn/shop/articles/the-paschal-candle-meaning-and-symbolism-in-easter-services-343425.jpg?v=1674143055
    https://ca-times.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fe20e46/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1365%2B0%2B0/resize/1440x960%21/quality/75/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcalifornia-times-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F9c%2F02%2Fa08d6388260fdc2234bc2f163e2b%2Ftn-vsl-me-la-canada-congregational-vigil-013

    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

  • 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

  • The Fifth Sorrowful Mystery: The Crucifixion

    The Price Paid for our Redemption

    https://images.metmuseum.org/CRDImages/ep/original/DT10248.jpg
    https://elements-resized.envatousercontent.com/elements-video-cover-images/files/222092607/primag.jpg?cf_fit=cover&format=auto&q=85&s=5a145c32a643bd292acdd6709378a94e119f8a7415d33a1c4872a2ad20d8ad35&w=500
    https://www.timkenmuseum.org/static/media/uploads/collection/Collection%20Images/murillo.png

    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

    https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/zNAAAOSwX1Za5oZD/s-l400.jpg
    https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/dw/image/v2/BDJN_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-dci_us-Library/default/dw62129d4f/images/Lent/AdobeStock_394077907.jpg
    https://www.gospelimages.com/images/content/paintings/53/image_22242_normal.jpg

    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

    https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/media/1bupcodr/n-3067-00-000032-web-hd.jpg?height=695&rxy=0.3541284403669725%2C0.31654676258992803&v=1dbcbf93e470aa0&width=695
    https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/f1696eece1e8baeb6ff15f9f181cb378ffae2844/1504_631_2868_1721/master/2868.jpg?auto=format&fit=crop&height=1200&quality=85&s=4951595c70e428ba458e67b9160d4372&width=1200
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d7/Cristo_crucificado.jpg

    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

    https://en.pimg.jp/107/775/846/1/107775846.jpg
    https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71PLcS9UiaL.jpg
    https://ruggedrosaries.com/cdn/shop/files/20230822_154512_1200x.jpg?v=1693406759

    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

    https://asset.gecdesigns.com/img/wallpapers/good-friday-images-showing-three-crosses-on-calvary-at-sunset-with-a-glowing-orange-sky-and-a-quiet-silhouette-sr02042609-cover.webp
    https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0321/7404/7368/files/A_person_carrying_a_large_wooden_cross_under_a_dramatic_sky_with_rays_of_light_breaking_through_clouds..jpg?v=1760020545
    https://png.pngtree.com/png-vector/20260326/ourlarge/pngtree-empty-tomb-resurrection-dawn-light-shroud-stone-entrance-divine-mystery-hope-png-image_19002010.webp

    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

  • 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

  • Holy Thursday: The Last Supper

    The First Priest are Ordained and Commissioned

    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/48/The_Last_Supper_-_Leonardo_Da_Vinci_-_High_Resolution_32x16.jpg
    https://altusfineart.com/cdn/shop/products/S110.jpg?v=1632866749&width=1214
    https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/files.catholicworldreport.com/2018/04/3074jesuswashin_00000002304.jpg

    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

    https://greatlakesbaycatholic.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_full/public/2024-03/sagmarapril24pg31sourcesummitgettyimagesnambitomo.png?h=a955cd85&itok=2PfwKfqY
    https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/617Z0cVlbzS._AC_UF894%2C1000_QL80_.jpg
    https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81UmE1oPu8L._AC_UF1000%2C1000_QL80_.jpg

    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

    https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/imgs/5dd13429814877171e73770124984c8d2b580f0b/full/1920%2C/0/default
    https://cdn.britannica.com/61/214961-050-A6B00CB6/Pope-Francis-Muslim-Christian-Hindu-refugees-Castelnuovo-di-Porto-Rome-Italy-Maudy-Thursday-2016.jpg
    https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0605/9828/8499/files/pics-of-jesus-serving8.webp

    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

    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/00/Altar_of_Repose.jpg
    https://www.ncronline.org/files/stories/images/02122016p10ph.jpg
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0e/Good_Friday_at_St_Andrew%27s_-_geograph.org.uk_-_151729.jpg/250px-Good_Friday_at_St_Andrew%27s_-_geograph.org.uk_-_151729.jpg

    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

  • The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery: The Carrying of the Cross

    The Fruit of the Mystery is Patience

    https://images.metmuseum.org/CRDImages/rl/original/DT714.jpg
    https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/pictures/stat4.jpg
    https://www.joyfulheart.com/easter/images-tissot/tissot-simon-of-cyrene-compelled-to-carry-cross.jpg

    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.

    https://entail-assets.com/artzabox/Walking%20Via%20Dolorosa-1646747723861.jpg
    https://www.mediastorehouse.com/p/690/simon-cyrenean-helps-jesus-carry-cross-23322038.jpg.webp
    https://trinitystores.com/cdn/shop/products/PR-MMJWJ.jpg?v=1714259780

    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

    https://p2.piqsels.com/preview/554/677/78/easter-jesus-crucifixion-cross.jpg
    https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Go0i218WsAAKOs2.jpg
    https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/fc4aae0f-d860-4b70-bdd2-8b7e19b15b3b/The%20Burden%20Oil%20painting%20cropped.jpg

    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

  • Spy Wednesday: A Sacred Day of Reflection in the Catholic Faith

    The Betrayal of Jesus

    https://www.catholiccompany.com/cdn/shop/articles/veiled-altar_f62c329a-f972-4c4b-ac90-3fd38c62df11.jpg?v=1774193503&width=1920
    https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/87801e3a53aba87426c95b6bd754c9a1bfafa751/0_1050_1707_1024/master/1707.jpg?auto=format&fit=crop&height=1200&quality=85&s=f2881b099f5e9e2d38d3536875818a6a&width=1200
    https://i.pinimg.com/736x/f2/dd/9a/f2dd9a563ada4a872c5a63ebf6cf873b.jpg

    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

    https://elements-resized.envatousercontent.com/elements-video-cover-images/ded62dc5-4c9d-481e-b842-cc57786b2628/video_preview/video_preview_0000.jpg?cf_fit=cover&format=auto&q=85&s=2b9bfe6d5cfa220fed5f154e9741c1136fb9e3fe4bc0b3e0637eaf298f05b027&w=500
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c0/Cath%C3%A9drale_Saint-%C3%89tienne_de_Toulouse_-_chapelle_des_reliques_-_Confessionnal_PM31000752.jpg
    https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1604031348418-123a12bda980?auto=format&fit=crop&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1yZWxhdGVkfDIzfHx8ZW58MHx8fHx8&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=60&w=3000

    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

    https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/%24s_%216M_m%21%2Cw_2400%2Cc_limit%2Cf_auto%2Cq_auto%3Agood%2Cfl_progressive%3Asteep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F67ad1b84-c12a-471c-8b4b-f580a180cb7a_2397x1600.jpeg
    https://res.cloudinary.com/ewtn/image/upload/images/Holy_Thursday_stripped_altar_at_Mater_Dei_parish_Irving_Texas_April_3_2015_credit_Mater_Dei_Latin_Mass_Parish_via_Flickr_CC_BY_NC_ND_20
    https://brighterdaypress.com/cdn/shop/articles/1_55cc092b-ad8b-450e-9562-595c69264432.png?v=1716060342

    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