Tag: love

Keep Your Eyes Fixed on Heaven

“Keep your eyes fixed on Heaven, and earth will be thrown in. Keep your eyes fixed on earth and you will get nothing.”
— C. S. Lewis

There is a profound truth in these words attributed to C. S. Lewis. They remind us that where we focus our eyes, our hearts tend to follow.

We live in a world filled with distractions. We worry about money, politics, health, possessions, relationships, the news, and what tomorrow may bring. None of these things are necessarily bad. But when they become the center of our lives, they can cause us to forget what matters most.

This world is temporary. Heaven is eternal.

What Are Your Eyes Fixed On?

Imagine walking down a path while constantly looking behind you. You would stumble over things you could easily have avoided.

Life can be like that.

If we spend all our time looking at the problems of this world, our problems can become larger than they really are. Fear can replace faith. Anxiety can replace peace. Discouragement can replace hope.

But when we lift our eyes toward God, something changes.

We begin to see our problems from an eternal perspective.

The bills may still be there. The difficult person may still be difficult. The news may still be troubling. Our circumstances may not immediately change.

But we change.

We remember that God is bigger than our problems.

“Set Your Mind on Things Above”

St. Paul gives us a similar message:

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”
— Colossians 3:2

This doesn’t mean that Christians should ignore earthly responsibilities.

Quite the opposite.

We have families to love, bills to pay, work to accomplish, neighbors to help, communities to serve, and people who need our kindness.

But we should do these things with Heaven in our hearts.

When Heaven becomes our destination, earth becomes our assignment—not our final home.

Earth Is a Gift, Not the Destination

God has given us this life as a tremendous gift.

We should enjoy the beauty around us. We should appreciate family and friends. We should laugh, work, serve, celebrate and give thanks.

But we should never confuse the gift with the Giver.

Everything we have ultimately comes from God.

Our homes, possessions, talents, opportunities, relationships and even our next breath are gifts.

And one day, we will leave all of those earthly things behind.

We cannot take our bank accounts with us.

We cannot take our houses.

We cannot take our cars.

We cannot take our accomplishments.

But we can take love.

We can take the good we have done for others in God’s name.

We can take the faith we have cultivated.

And, by God’s grace, we can take our souls home to Him.

When Heaven Is Our Focus, Earth Falls Into Perspective

Think about how different life looks when we remember that it is temporary.

Someone insults us.

Is it worth carrying resentment for years?

Someone hurts us.

Can we forgive them and place the matter in God’s hands?

We lose something we treasured.

Can we say, “Lord, thank You for the time I had it”?

We face an uncertain future.

Can we say, “God, I don’t know what tomorrow holds, but I know You hold tomorrow”?

That is the freedom that comes from keeping our eyes fixed on Heaven.

Don’t Let the World Steal Your Peace

The world constantly tells us:

“You need more.”

God tells us:

“Trust Me.”

The world says:

“Be afraid.”

God says:

“Do not be afraid.”

The world says:

“Look at what you don’t have.”

God says:

“Look at what I have already given you.”

The world says:

“Protect yourself at all costs.”

Christ teaches us to love, forgive, serve, and give.

The difference is enormous.

Heaven Changes How We Live Today

Keeping our eyes on Heaven doesn’t make us less useful on earth.

It makes us more useful.

If I know this life is temporary, I have a greater reason to make every day count.

I can encourage someone who is lonely.

I can forgive someone who has hurt me.

I can pray for someone who has wronged me.

I can feed someone who is hungry.

I can listen to someone who needs to talk.

I can share my faith.

I can thank God for another day.

I can use whatever blessings God has placed in my hands for His glory and for the good of others.

That is what living with our eyes on Heaven looks like.

A Simple Daily Practice

Perhaps we can begin each morning with a simple prayer:

“Lord, help me keep my eyes on You today.

Help me remember that this world is temporary and Heaven is eternal.

Help me use everything. You have given me for Your glory.

Help me forgive those who have hurt me.

Help me love those who are difficult to love.

Help me not become consumed by the problems of this world.

And when I become worried, remind me to look up.

My hope is not in this world. My hope is in You. Amen.”

Look Up

We don’t know how many days God has given us.

That is why today matters.

Don’t waste today worrying about yesterday.

Don’t spend today being consumed by tomorrow.

And don’t allow the temporary things of earth to make you forget the eternal things of Heaven.

Look up.

Fix your eyes on Christ.

Trust God with the things you cannot control.

Use today to love, forgive, serve, and give thanks.

Because when our eyes are fixed on Heaven, we can live on earth with greater peace, greater purpose, and greater hope.

Heaven is real. Eternity is coming.

So let us keep our eyes fixed on Heaven—and trust God to take care of the rest.

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

P.S. To check out The Good News Newsletter and all you get with it for FREE, click here.

August 15, 2026
God Owns Everything—We Are Stewarts
God’s Gifts Are Meant for Eternity

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
— Matthew 6:19–20

Every good thing we possess is a gift from God.

Our health, our strength, our talents, our homes, our families, our friendships, and even the opportunities placed before us each day come from His loving hand. We often speak about what we have “earned,” but behind every accomplishment stands the God who gave us life, the ability to work, and the blessings that made success possible.

The Book of James reminds us:

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.”
— James 1:17

Because everything belongs to God, we are not owners—we are stewards.

God entrusts us with His gifts for a time. He asks us to use them wisely, to care for our families, to strengthen our communities, to help those in need, and above all, to glorify Him.

When success comes, thank Him.

When prosperity comes, thank Him.

When health is strong, thank Him.

And if one day He chooses to take those blessings back, thank Him again for allowing you to enjoy them for however long He saw fit.

Job understood this profound truth after losing nearly everything he possessed:

“The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
— Job 1:21

Those words are not easy to live, but they reveal a heart that trusted God more than possessions.

Keep Your Eyes on Eternity

Life moves quickly.

The house we build will someday belong to someone else.

The car we proudly drive will eventually wear out.

Money comes and goes.

Even our earthly bodies grow older.

Everything around us is temporary.

Only one thing lasts forever—our eternal soul.

That is why Jesus continually reminded His followers to keep their hearts fixed on Heaven.

Every decision we make should be measured against one simple question:

Will this help bring me closer to God and prepare me for eternity?

When we keep our eyes on Heaven, disappointments lose much of their sting, and successes become opportunities to praise God rather than ourselves.

Living for the Eternal Reward

It is interesting how faithfully we obey the rules of our employer.

We arrive at work on time.

We follow company policies.

We complete assignments.

We strive to do our best because, at the end of the week, we expect a paycheck.

Yet that paycheck may be spent before the day is over. Bills are paid, groceries are bought, expenses arise, and the money is gone.

How strange it is that many people work so diligently for rewards that disappear, while giving so little attention to the reward that never fades.

God has already shown us the path to eternal life.

He calls us to:
- Keep His Commandments.
- Love God with all our heart.
- Love our neighbor as ourselves.
- Practice humility, charity, patience, honesty, forgiveness, and purity.
- Receive His grace through prayer and the sacraments.
- Live lives that reflect Christ.
Unlike an earthly employer, God does not ask us to earn His love. He freely offers it. But He does ask us to respond with faithful, obedient hearts.

The Virtues Build the Road to Heaven

The saints remind us that holiness is not usually found in dramatic moments but in ordinary faithfulness.

Each act of kindness…

Each quiet prayer…

Each sacrifice made for another…

Each temptation resisted…

Each word of forgiveness…

These become stepping stones leading toward Heaven.

Virtue shapes our character until we begin to resemble Christ Himself.

The more we practice love, humility, generosity, courage, patience, and faith, the more prepared our souls become for eternal life.

Our Greatest Investment

Wise investors look for what will produce lasting returns.

Jesus tells us that the greatest investment we can ever make is not in the stock market, real estate, or a retirement account.

Our greatest investment is in eternity.

Every prayer offered with love…

Every act of mercy…

Every soul encouraged…

Every sacrifice made for God…

These are treasures that can never be lost.

They accompany us beyond the grave.

A Final Thought

God has blessed each of us in different ways.

Cherish those blessings.

Use them for His glory.

Love your family.

Serve your community.

Help those who cannot repay you.

And if life changes tomorrow, remember to thank God for every blessing He allowed you to enjoy.

Above all, keep your eyes, your mind, and your soul fixed on Heaven.

Everything else will one day pass away.

But eternal life with God will never end.

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?”
— Mark 8:36

May we spend our lives not merely earning a paycheck that lasts a day, but pursuing the Kingdom that lasts forever.

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

P.S. Please Click Here to learn about the THM mission and join us in building a loving, carying, sharing community.
July 26, 2026
The Freedom of Forgiveness

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” — Luke 23:34

Someone once said, “Not forgiving someone is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” That simple statement contains a profound truth.

When we refuse to forgive, the person we are angry with may continue living life without ever thinking about us. Meanwhile, bitterness quietly takes root in our own hearts. Anger grows. Peace disappears. Joy fades. Our relationship with God can suffer because our hearts become occupied with yesterday’s wounds instead of today’s blessings.

Unforgiveness is a prison whose door can only be unlocked from the inside.

The Greatest Act of Forgiveness Ever Given

The greatest example of forgiveness the world has ever witnessed came from God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Out of infinite love, the Father sent His only Son into the world to redeem us.

How did humanity respond?

We rejected Him.

We mocked Him.

We humiliated Him.

We scourged Him until His body was torn.

We pressed a crown of thorns upon His sacred head.

We forced Him to carry the heavy Cross through the streets to Calvary.

Then we nailed Him to that Cross and lifted Him high before the crowds so they could continue to mock and ridicule Him.

Yet in the midst of unimaginable suffering, Jesus spoke words that continue to echo through history:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

Those words were not spoken only for the Roman soldiers.

They were spoken for every sinner who has ever lived—including you and me.

Every sin, from the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden until the last person born before the end of time, was present before Christ. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He willingly accepted the weight of our sins because of His immeasurable love for us.

He chose forgiveness instead of revenge.

He chose mercy instead of condemnation.

He chose love instead of hatred.

Why Is Forgiveness So Difficult?

Often, we struggle to forgive because we continue living in yesterday.

We replay the hurt.

We replay the conversation.

We replay the betrayal.

The past becomes our home.

But God is always inviting us into the present moment.

Yesterday cannot be changed.

Tomorrow has not yet arrived.

Grace is found today.

Peace is found today.

God meets us today.

When we constantly live in the past, we keep reopening wounds that Christ wants to heal.

Forgiveness does not mean pretending the hurt never happened.

It does not mean saying that evil was acceptable.

It does not always mean trusting the person again.

Forgiveness means placing the hurt into God’s hands instead of carrying it ourselves.

It means refusing to let bitterness control our hearts any longer.

The Father Is Waiting

Jesus beautifully illustrated God’s love in the Parable of the Prodigal Son.

The father never stopped watching the road.

He never stopped hoping.

The moment his son returned, he ran to embrace him.

He clothed him.

He restored him.

Then he celebrated with a great feast.

That is our Heavenly Father.

Every one of us has wandered away from Him at one time or another.

Every one of us has needed mercy.

Every one of us has depended upon God’s forgiveness.

If God has forgiven us so generously, how can we refuse to forgive others?

A Prayer for the Grace to Forgive

If there is someone you have struggled to forgive, begin with a simple prayer.

“Lord Jesus, I cannot do this by myself. The hurt is real, and You know my heart. Give me the grace to forgive as You forgave me. Heal what is broken within me. Replace anger with peace, bitterness with love, and resentment with mercy. Help me to live in Your presence today rather than in yesterday’s pain. Amen.”

The Choice That Brings Freedom

Forgiveness is not weakness.

It is strength.

It is not surrendering to evil.

It is surrendering to God.

The Cross reminds us that love is stronger than hatred, mercy is greater than revenge, and forgiveness always has the final word.

Today, let us place our hurts at the foot of the Cross.

Let us leave behind the poison of resentment.

Let us receive the mercy Christ purchased for us.

And let us walk forward with peaceful hearts, knowing that our loving Father is waiting with open arms, ready to welcome every one of His sons and daughters home to the everlasting feast of Heaven.

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

P.S. Click Here to learn more about the THM mission and join us in building a loving, caring, sharing community.

July 26, 2026
Some Things I Have Run Across in My Journey *

“A cheerful heart is good medicine.”* — **Proverbs 17:22**

During my journey through life, God has taught me many lessons—some through prayer, some through joy, and many through the ordinary moments I almost overlooked. Looking back, I have discovered that happiness is often a choice, gratitude is a habit, and every day is another opportunity to grow closer to Him.

As the years have passed, I have found that some of life’s greatest blessings are also its simplest. Smile often. Laugh often. Thank God often.

Medical researchers tell us that laughter can reduce stress, brighten our outlook, and even support better heart health. While laughter may not make us younger in years, it certainly can make us younger in spirit. How beautiful are the words of Scripture: >

*”A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”* > **— Proverbs 17:22**

God created us for joy. Every sunrise, every friendship, every child’s laughter, every kind word, every flower in bloom, and every answered prayer reminds us that our Heavenly Father delights in giving good gifts to His children.

## Seeing Blessings in Disguise One of the greatest changes in my life came when I stopped seeing interruptions as inconveniences and began seeing them as invitations from God.

Whenever something goes wrong—a spilled drink, misplaced keys, a delayed appointment, a flat tire, or any little mishap—I try to stop immediately and thank the Lord.

That may sound strange. Why thank God for spilling coffee? Because perhaps He is trying to slow me down. Perhaps He wants me to notice something I have overlooked. Perhaps He is gently encouraging me to clean the cluttered desk I have been avoiding.

Perhaps He is reminding me that His plans are often better than my own. Instead of becoming frustrated, I simply smile and pray:

“Thank You, Lord.”** It is amazing how quickly peace returns when gratitude replaces irritation. Our hearts become calmer. Our minds become clearer. We begin looking for blessings instead of problems.

The Apostle Paul encourages us: > *”Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”* > **— 1 Thessalonians 5:18** Notice that Paul says **in** all circumstances—not necessarily **for** all circumstances.

Even during life’s inconveniences, God is present, quietly working for our good.

Seeing Christ in Others Perhaps the greatest lesson I have ever encountered is this: **

Treat every person you meet as though you were meeting Christ Himself.** Imagine how differently we would speak. Imagine how patiently we would listen. Imagine how kindly we would serve. Jesus told us: >

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me.”* > **— Matthew 25:40**

Every person you meet today is someone for whom Christ gave His life.

The cashier.

The waiter.

The receptionist.

The neighbor.

The lonely resident sitting quietly in the dining room.

The family member who sometimes tests your patience.

The stranger you may never meet again.

Each one is precious in God’s eyes. Living here at West Fork Village has reminded me again and again that every smile in the hallway, every shared meal, every friendly conversation, and every helping hand is another opportunity to encounter Christ.

We never know when a simple act of kindness may brighten someone’s entire day—or even change a life. When we begin seeing Christ in others, something wonderful happens.

We become more forgiving. More patient. More compassionate. More joyful. And the world becomes a little brighter because Christ is shining through us.

A Different Way to Live:

The world teaches us to hurry.

God teaches us to notice.

The world teaches us to complain.

God teaches us to give thanks.

The world teaches us to judge.

Jesus teaches us to love.

Those simple changes can completely transform the way we experience life. Smile more. Laugh often.

Thank God for every blessing. See every interruption as an invitation from God. Treat every person as though you were meeting Christ Himself.

Little by little, our homes become happier, our friendships become stronger, and our hearts become more peaceful. Most importantly, we grow closer to the One who walks beside us every step of our journey.

A Simple Challenge Tomorrow morning, before your feet touch the floor, ask God for three simple gifts:

– A heart that smiles.

– Eyes that recognize His blessings.

-The grace to see Christ in every person you meet.

If you sincerely pray that prayer each day, I believe it will begin to change your life—just as it has changed mine.

May God grant each of us the grace to recognize His blessings, whether they come wrapped in joy, hidden inside a small inconvenience, or standing quietly before us in the face of another person. For every day is a gift.

Every person is precious. Every moment is another opportunity to love God and to love one another.

And perhaps that is one of the greatest discoveries we will eve make. :::

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@thmjmj8875

P.S. Before you go…

If you enjoyed this blog, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who loves dogs and uplifting stories.

Then visit thm34.shop and subscribe FREE to The Good News Newsletter.

Each week you’ll receive inspiring stories, faith-filled encouragement, World of Dogs videos, weekly highlights, and delicious budget recipes—all delivered straight to your inbox.

Visit today: https://thm34.shop

July 21, 2026
This is How it is
The Little Pencil in God’s Hand

Inspired by the words of Saint Mother Teresa

There are times when people tell me how much they enjoy one of my articles, videos, or blogs. They say the words encouraged them, strengthened their faith, or simply made them smile. Those comments are always appreciated, but they also remind me of a beautiful truth that keeps my feet firmly on the ground.

In one of my books containing daily devotional readings drawn from the writings of Mother Teresa, I came across a quotation that perfectly expresses how I feel whenever I sit down to write.

“I don’t claim anything of the work. It is His work. I’m like a little pencil in His Hand. That’s all. He does the thinking. He does the writing. The pencil has only to be allowed to be used.”
— Saint Mother Teresa

Those simple words contain a profound lesson for every Christian.

God Is the Author

When we surrender ourselves to God, He can accomplish far more through us than we could ever accomplish by ourselves.

The temptation is always to think that success comes from our own intelligence, education, talent, or experience. While God certainly gives us those gifts, they become truly fruitful only when they are placed back into His hands.

Just as a pencil cannot write a single word by itself, neither can we bear lasting spiritual fruit apart from God.

Jesus reminded us:

“Apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

That verse has become increasingly meaningful to me over the years.

Every Article Begins with Prayer

Before I begin writing, I try to remember that these words are not ultimately for me.

Whether I am writing:
- a spiritual reflection,
- a World of Dogs story,
- The Good News Newsletter,
- or simply sharing the highlights of the week,
my prayer is always the same:

“Lord, if this can help even one person come a little closer to You, then use me.”

That changes everything.

Instead of worrying about finding the perfect words, I simply try to remain open to wherever God wishes to lead.

The Holy Spirit Is the Best Editor

Many people have asked how so many articles, videos, and stories seem to come together.

The answer is really very simple.

The Holy Spirit has an unlimited vocabulary.

He knows exactly what someone needs to hear today.

He knows which Bible verse will touch a hurting heart.

He knows which story will encourage someone who feels like giving up.

When we allow Him to guide our thoughts, remarkable things begin to happen—not because of us, but because of Him.

A Pencil Is Useless Until Someone Picks It Up

A pencil has no power of its own.

It doesn’t decide what to write.

It doesn’t choose the message.

It simply allows itself to be used.

That is a wonderful picture of the Christian life.

God is not looking for the most talented people.

He is looking for willing hearts.

He can take ordinary people and do extraordinary things through them.

History is filled with saints who were not famous because of their own abilities but because they allowed God to work through them.

We Can All Be God’s Pencil

You don’t have to write articles or produce videos to become God’s pencil.

You may be:
- encouraging a lonely neighbor,
- praying for someone in need,
- preparing a meal with love,
- smiling at a stranger,
- volunteering at church,
- or quietly living your faith every day.
Each small act becomes part of God’s beautiful story.

Sometimes the smallest pencil writes the most important message.

A Prayer

Lord,

Thank You for allowing ordinary people to participate in Your extraordinary work.

Keep me humble.

Never let me seek recognition for what belongs to You.

Make me, like Saint Mother Teresa, only a little pencil in Your hands.

Think through me.

Write through me.

Love through me.

And may everything I do bring glory to You alone.

Amen.

Final Thought

If anything I write encourages someone, strengthens a family, inspires a reader, or brings one soul a little closer to Christ, then all praise belongs to God.

I am simply grateful that, despite all my imperfections, He is still willing to pick up this little pencil and write.

As Saint Mother Teresa so beautifully said:

“He does the thinking. He does the writing. The pencil has only to be allowed to be used.”

May each of us become that little pencil in the loving hands of God.

I Thak you for reading this. Please share with others.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

P.S. Before you go…

If you enjoyed this video, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who loves dogs and uplifting stories.

Then visit thm34.shop and subscribe FREE to The Good News Newsletter.

Each week you’ll receive inspiring stories, faith-filled encouragement, World of Dogs videos, weekly highlights, and delicious budget recipes—all delivered straight to your inbox.

Visit today: thm34.shop
July 15, 2026
Is Heaven on Your Trip Agendia
Planning the Most Important Journey of Your Life

“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:20-21

Most of us spend considerable time planning ordinary events.

Before going to Walmart, we make a shopping list. We compare prices. We decide the quickest route. We plan what we need and when we will go.

Before taking a vacation, we spend weeks or even months preparing. We reserve hotels, buy tickets, pack our luggage, and study maps so we will arrive safely at our destination.

Yet I am convinced that many people spend more time planning a trip to Walmart than they do planning the most important journey they will ever make—the journey into eternity.

That thought should give every one of us pause.

Everything Here Will Pass Away

Jesus continually reminded us not to become attached to the temporary things of this world.

He told us:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven.”

Every possession we own will someday belong to someone else.

Every house will eventually belong to another family.

Every automobile will wear out.

Even our own bodies will return to dust.

Everything on earth is temporary.

Only eternity lasts forever.

That realization has brought tremendous peace into my own life.

When disappointments come, I remind myself that they are temporary.

When suffering comes, it too is temporary.

When the evening news fills our hearts with violence, hatred, wars, and confusion, I remember that none of these things will last forever.

Even if we were to live one hundred years on this earth, it would still be only a tiny flicker when compared with eternity.

Are We Preparing for Heaven?

It is difficult to arrive at a destination we never intended to reach.

If someone asked you today where you planned to spend your next vacation, you could probably answer immediately.

But how many people regularly ask themselves:

“Am I preparing for Heaven?”

The devil surely delights whenever people become so busy with earthly concerns that they never seriously prepare for eternal life.

He doesn’t have to convince people that God doesn’t exist.

Often, he merely distracts them long enough that they never make God the center of their lives.

Days become weeks.

Weeks become years.

Years become a lifetime.

Then eternity arrives.

Two Very Different Destinations

Scripture speaks clearly about two eternal destinations.

Heaven

Imagine a place filled with perfect peace.

No sickness.

No tears.

No loneliness.

No fear.

No hatred.

No jealousy.

No anxiety.

There we will finally see God face to face.

We will be with our Eternal Father, our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all the saints who have gone before us.

Every longing of the human heart will finally be fulfilled.

Perfect love.

Perfect joy.

Perfect peace.

Forever.

Hell

In complete contrast stands the tragedy of eternal separation from God.

Scripture describes it as a place without peace.

A place of darkness.

A place of regret.

A place where pride, hatred, selfishness, rebellion, and despair never end.

Everything that separates us from God reaches its terrible conclusion there.

God desires that no one should choose that path, but He also respects the freedom He has given each of us.

The choice is ours.

Building Treasures That Last Forever

How do we prepare for Heaven?

Not by earning God’s love, because His grace is always His gift.

But we respond to that grace by living faithfully each day.

We prepare through:
- Daily prayer that keeps our hearts close to God.
- Receiving the sacraments faithfully.
- Reading Sacred Scripture.
- Loving our neighbor.
- Forgiving those who hurt us.
- Caring for the poor and those in need.
- Offering our sufferings to Christ.
- Living lives of humility, gratitude, and charity.
- Seeking God’s mercy whenever we fall through sincere repentance.
Every act of love becomes an eternal investment.

Every sacrifice offered to God has lasting value.

Every soul we help draw closer to Christ becomes a treasure that will never disappear.

Where Do You Want to Spend Eternity?

Someday every one of us will take the journey from this life into eternity.

The question is not if we will make that journey.

The question is where we will arrive.

If we devote hours planning vacations, careers, retirement, and even shopping trips, shouldn’t we spend even more time preparing for the one destination that lasts forever?

Heaven is worth every prayer.

Every sacrifice.

Every act of love.

Every effort to follow Christ.

For compared with eternity, this life is only the briefest moment.

So let us begin today.

Let us pray more faithfully.

Love more generously.

Forgive more quickly.

Serve more joyfully.

And each day, let us continue storing up treasures where they will never fade away.

Because when our earthly journey is finished, nothing will matter more than hearing those beautiful words spoken by our Savior:

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Master.” — Matthew 25:23

Reflection:
Today, ask yourself one simple question: “If I were planning my journey to Heaven with the same care I plan my everyday activities, what would I do differently?” Then begin taking those steps today, trusting in God’s grace to lead you home.

Before you go…

If you enjoyed this video, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who loves dogs and uplifting stories.

Then visit thm34.shop and subscribe FREE to The Good News Newsletter.

Each week you’ll receive inspiring stories, faith-filled encouragement, World of Dogs videos, weekly highlights, and delicious budget recipes—all delivered straight to your inbox.

Visit today: thm34.shop

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

Rik Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
July 12, 2026
The Holy Trinity: Not a Puzzle to Solve, but Three Divine Persons to Love

The Holy Trinity: A Relationship of Love

Many people spend their lives trying to figure out the mystery of the Holy Trinity. While there is certainly much to learn about this great mystery of faith, the Holy Trinity is not primarily something to figure out. The Trinity is Someone to know, Someone to love, and Someone with whom we are called to have a personal relationship.

The mission of every Christian is to enter into an intimate relationship with each Person of the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

God the Father: Our Loving Creator

The first Person of the Trinity is God the Father. He is our Creator and the source of all life. Out of infinite love, He created each one of us with a purpose.

God made us to know Him, love Him, and serve Him in this world so that we may be happy with Him forever in Heaven. Every blessing we enjoy, every breath we take, and every opportunity we receive comes from His loving hand.

The Father is not distant or indifferent. He knows us personally. He knows our joys, our struggles, our hopes, and our fears. Like the loving father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, He constantly waits for us to return to Him and experience His mercy and love.

Jesus Christ: The Greatest Act of Love in History

The second Person of the Trinity is Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Jesus is the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings. He is God made man, the perfect revelation of the Father’s love. Out of endless mercy and infinite grace, He chose to enter into the brokenness of our world.

He did not have to do this. Yet He willingly stepped into our suffering, our pain, and our sin. It is the most magnificent and majestic act of love in human history.

Through His death on the Cross, Jesus paid the price for our salvation. Through His Resurrection, He conquered sin and death. He opened the gates of Heaven and invited all humanity into the family of God.

Eternal life is now available to every person who chooses to accept His gift of salvation and follow Him.

When we look upon the Cross, we do not merely see suffering. We see love. We see sacrifice. We see the heart of God reaching out to humanity.

As Jesus Himself said:

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)

The Holy Spirit: The Spirit of Love, Wisdom, and Power

The third Person of the Trinity is the Holy Spirit, often called the Paraclete, the Advocate, and the Spirit of Truth.

The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Love, Wisdom, Joy, and Power.

Before Pentecost, the Apostles often struggled to understand the mission Jesus had entrusted to them. They were fearful, uncertain, and confused.

Then everything changed.

When the Holy Spirit descended upon them at Pentecost, they were transformed. The timid became courageous. The confused gained wisdom. The fearful became bold witnesses for Christ.

The Holy Spirit empowered the Apostles to proclaim the Gospel throughout the world. In many ways, Pentecost was the birth of Christianity as a worldwide mission.

The same Holy Spirit who transformed the Apostles is available to us today. He guides us, teaches us, strengthens us, comforts us, and fills us with the gifts necessary to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.

When we invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts, He helps us grow in holiness and draws us closer to both the Father and the Son.

Living in Relationship with the Trinity

The Christian life is not merely about following rules or understanding doctrines. It is about living in a loving relationship with God.

We pray to the Father.

We follow Jesus Christ.

We are empowered by the Holy Spirit.

The Father loves us into existence.

The Son redeems us through His sacrifice.

The Holy Spirit transforms us from within.

Every Mass, every prayer, every act of love, and every moment of faith brings us deeper into the life of the Holy Trinity.

The mystery of the Trinity will always be greater than our understanding. Yet God does not ask us to fully comprehend Him. He invites us to know Him, trust Him, and love Him.

May we grow each day in our relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, until the day we see God face to face and experience the fullness of His love forever in Heaven.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Suggested Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

May 31, 2026
Go Make a Difference in the World
Let the Light of God Shine Through You

In a world filled with noise, confusion, and struggle, there is still one force powerful enough to change hearts, restore hope, and transform lives — the love of God working through His people.

God did not create us to simply exist. He created us to shine. Every smile, every encouraging word, every act of kindness, and every prayer can become a reflection of His presence in the world.

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we begin to see others differently. We become more patient, more compassionate, more forgiving, and more willing to serve. The Holy Spirit guides us to become light in dark places, life where there is discouragement, and love where there is pain.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” — Matthew 5:14

God Dwells Within Us

One of the greatest truths in the Christian faith is that God desires to dwell within us. Through faith, prayer, and surrender, our hearts become a place where His Spirit lives and moves.

Sometimes people search everywhere for peace, purpose, and joy, not realizing that God is already calling them from within. When we open our hearts to Him, He renews our minds, strengthens our spirits, and teaches us how to love others more deeply.

Our souls become a living testimony of God’s grace.

We are not meant to walk alone. God’s Spirit gives us courage when we are afraid, wisdom when we are uncertain, and hope when life feels difficult.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” — 1 Corinthians 6:19

Respond to God’s Creative Work in Your Life

God is continually working within each of us. He plants dreams, purpose, creativity, and compassion into our hearts. The question is not whether God is calling us — the question is whether we are willing to respond.

You do not have to be famous to make a difference.
You do not need wealth or status to change someone’s life.

A simple act of love can become a miracle for someone else.
- Encourage someone who feels discouraged
- Pray for someone in need
- Help a neighbor
- Share God’s love with kindness and humility
- Be a voice of peace in a divided world
These small acts become seeds of hope that God can multiply beyond what we can imagine.

Be Light, Life, and Love

The world needs more than opinions and arguments. It needs people who carry the Spirit of God with gentleness, truth, and compassion.

Today is a new opportunity to make a difference.

Let your life reflect God’s glory.
Let your words bring healing.
Let your actions reveal His love.

And wherever you go, may others see the light of Christ shining through you.

Final Prayer

Heavenly Father, fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Help us become vessels of Your love, peace, and truth. Give us the grace and faith to believe that You truly dwell within us. May our hearts become a reflection of heaven, and may our lives inspire others to seek You. Teach us to respond to Your creative work within us and to boldly make a difference in the world through Your love. Amen.

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
May 17, 2026
You Are Redeemed — But Salvation Requires Faithful Perseverance
Introduction

Many people today believe that salvation is automatic. They say, “Jesus died for my sins, so I am

You Are Redeemed — But Salvation Requires Faithful Perseveranc

Introduction

Many people today believe that salvation is automatic. They say, “Jesus died for my sins, so I am saved no matter how I live.” Yet Sacred Scripture teaches something deeper and more demanding.

Yes, by the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, humanity has been redeemed. The price has been paid. The door to eternal life has been opened. But salvation is not a one-time declaration spoken with the lips while the heart remains unchanged.

Saint Paul writes:

“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” — Philippians 2:12

These words remind us that salvation is not something to take lightly. Redemption was purchased by Christ, but salvation requires cooperation with God’s grace.

The Difference Between Redemption and Salvation

Redemption Is the Gift

When Jesus suffered during His Passion and died upon the Cross, He redeemed mankind. He paid the debt of sin that humanity could never repay.

Scripture says:

“You were bought with a price.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20

That price was the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ.

Through redemption:
- Sin no longer has absolute power over humanity.
- The gates of Heaven were opened.
- Grace became available to all.
- Forgiveness became possible.
Redemption is God’s great gift to the world.

Salvation Is the Response

Salvation, however, is our response to that gift.

God does not force anyone into Heaven. He calls us into a living relationship with Him. We must walk with Christ daily, repent of sin, seek holiness, and persevere faithfully until the end.

Jesus Himself said:

“He who endures to the end will be saved.” — Matthew 24:13

Notice the words “will be saved.” Salvation involves endurance, faithfulness, and perseverance.

Faith Must Become Action

Christianity Is Not Passive

Many people want the comfort of faith without the sacrifice of discipleship. Yet Jesus said:

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” — Luke 9:23

The Christian life is active.

It means:
- Loving difficult people.
- Forgiving those who hurt us.
- Resisting temptation.
- Feeding the hungry.
- Helping the poor.
- Remaining faithful in suffering.
- Living in prayer.
Faith that never changes our life is not living faith.

Saint James teaches:

“Faith without works is dead.” — James 2:26

Works do not earn salvation apart from God’s grace, but authentic faith produces obedience, love, and transformation.

Fear and Trembling Before God

Holy Reverence

When Saint Paul says to work out salvation with “fear and trembling,” he does not mean terror without hope. He means holy reverence before Almighty God.

Modern society often treats God casually. Yet Scripture repeatedly teaches reverence.

The fear of the Lord means:
- Respect for God’s holiness.
- Awareness of our weakness.
- Humility before divine judgment.
- Gratitude for mercy.
- A sincere desire not to offend God.
This holy fear protects us from pride and spiritual laziness.

The Danger of Spiritual Complacency

Do Not Drift Away

One of the greatest spiritual dangers is complacency.

A person may say:
- “I was baptized, so I’m fine.”
- “I believe in Jesus, so nothing else matters.”
- “God understands, so sin is no big deal.”
But Scripture warns believers repeatedly not to fall away.

Saint Paul wrote:

“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” — 1 Corinthians 10:12

Even after redemption, we must continue to seek God daily.

Prayer, repentance, worship, charity, and obedience are not optional parts of Christianity. They are the fruit of a living relationship with Christ.

The Cross Changes Everything

Jesus Calls Us Into Transformation

The Passion of Jesus was not merely an emotional event. It was the greatest act of sacrificial love in human history.

When we truly meditate upon the suffering of Christ:
- Pride begins to die.
- Selfishness is exposed.
- Gratitude grows.
- Mercy becomes possible.
- Love deepens.
The Cross is not simply something we admire. It is something we enter.

Jesus invites every believer to unite their suffering, struggles, and sacrifices with Him.

Living Redemption Daily

How We Cooperate With Grace

We live out redemption through daily faithfulness.

Some practical ways include:
1. Daily prayer.
2. Reading Scripture.
3. Frequent repentance.
4. Worship and participation in church.
5. Serving the poor and forgotten.
6. Forgiving others.
7. Rejecting habitual sin.
8. Seeking peace and holiness.
Every day becomes an opportunity to draw closer to Christ.

Conclusion

Yes, you are redeemed.

Jesus Christ suffered, died, and rose again for you. His mercy is beyond human understanding. His love opened the way to eternal life.

But salvation is not something to treat casually.

We are called to walk faithfully with Christ every day of our lives.

As Saint Paul reminds us:

“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” — Philippians 2:12

May we never waste the grace purchased by the Blood of Christ.

May we live with humility, repentance, perseverance, and love.

And may we one day hear the words:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

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

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

P.S. Click Here to check out the Kind Virus.
May 10, 2026
The Two Commandments That Change Everything

Learning to Love God, Your Neighbor, and Yourself

In the time of Jesus, religious life for the Jewish people was shaped not only by the Ten Commandments but by 613 laws—guidelines meant to help people avoid breaking God’s covenant. These laws were intended as protection, a hedge around holiness.

But over time, many became so focused on the rules that they lost sight of the deeper purpose behind them—the heart of the Torah, the spirit of mercy, and the living message of God.

Then came Jesus, with the genius of divine simplicity.

When asked which commandment was greatest, Jesus distilled all the law and the prophets into two breathtaking truths:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
This is the greatest and first commandment.
And a second is like it:
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
— Gospel of Matthew

With these words, Jesus did not abolish the law—He fulfilled it.

Everything hangs on love.

The Forgotten Part of the Commandment

Many Christians emphasize loving God.

Many strive to love neighbor.

But too often we neglect the third element hidden in plain sight:

Love your neighbor as yourself.

What if one of the deepest crises in the Church today is not simply a failure to love others—but a failure to receive and live from God’s love for ourselves?

For until we learn to love ourselves as God desires, our love for others can become distorted.

It can become anxious instead of peaceful.

Performative instead of genuine.

Driven by approval instead of grace.

Holy Self-Love Is Not Selfishness

There is a difference between pride and holy self-love.

Pride says, I am the center.

Holy self-love says, I am beloved.

Pride inflates the ego.

Holy self-love receives identity from God.

To love ourselves rightly is not vanity. It is humility—the humility to agree with God about our worth.

We are created in the image of God.

Redeemed in Christ.

Indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

How can we despise what God treasures?

When We Love Ourselves in God

When we begin to love ourselves as children of God, something changes.

We become less interested in what others think about us
and more interested in what God thinks.

We stop doing good in order to be noticed.

We stop serving to be praised.

We stop performing for acceptance.

Because we know we are already accepted.

Already loved.

Already enough in Christ.

And from that freedom, love flows outward.

Freely.

Joyfully.

Without calculation.

Without fear.

Love Changes How We See Others

When we receive God’s love for ourselves, we begin seeing others differently.

Not as rivals.

Not as threats.

Not as problems to manage.

But as neighbors to cherish.

Even enemies to forgive.

Even strangers to welcome.

This is the revolution Jesus announced.

Not a religion of rule-keeping.

A kingdom of love.

The kind of love that washes feet.

Feeds crowds.

Touches lepers.

Carries crosses.

Rises from tombs.

The Measure of Spiritual Maturity

Perhaps spiritual maturity is simpler than we imagine.

It is learning, day by day:

To love God more completely.

To love ourselves more truthfully.

To love others more generously.

This is the whole Gospel in practice.

As Saint Augustine famously said:

“Love, and do what you will.”

Because where love governs the heart, the law has already been fulfilled.

A Prayer

Lord, teach us to love You
with all our heart, soul, and mind.

Teach us to receive the love
You already have for us.

Heal the places where we reject ourselves.

Free us from living for human approval.

And teach us to love our neighbor
as ourselves—

with the very love
with which You love us.

Amen.

Final Reflection

Jesus reduced 613 laws to two commandments.

Not because holiness became smaller—

but because love is greater.

And perhaps the Church today needs to recover this forgotten truth:

To love your neighbor well,

you must learn to receive God’s love for yourself.

And that may be where healing begins.

Thank you for reading this article. Please share with others,

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

April 26, 2026