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Where the Lord Wants to Lead Me by Susan Bailey

Susan Bailey — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 18:00:04 +0000

A reflection on Readings for November 10, 2010
Titus 3:1-7; Psalm 23:1-6; Luke 17:11-19

Sometimes I think I would have done quite well in the era of oral tradition. While I like to read, listening to someone else read often makes words or phrases stand out that otherwise wouldn’t. That’s what happened today.

I often listen to the daily scripture readings at the Verbum Domini site. There’s no commentary, just a simple rendering of the daily readings. Because the USCCB site is the only place authorized to use the New American Bible, Verbum Domini uses the Revised Standard version and today I’m glad they did.

The ever familiar Psalm 23 was the responsorial psalm today. As I listened to it, these first lines stood out:

The LORD is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;

Still waters. I thought about what that looked like, like a sea of smooth glass reflecting the sky, the trees, whatever happens to be around. There is much that lurks beneath still waters. Fish. Insects. Turtles. Plant life. The still waters contain many signs of vibrant life and yet they are quiet (New St. James version), restful (New American version), peaceful.

I thought back to the phrase, He makes me, in referring to “He makes me to lie down in green pastures” and it helped me to make sense of something I’ve been pondering for a while and even talked about with my spiritual mother last night.

I mentioned to her that I wondered sometimes why my life was so serene right now, restful with few worries and responsibilities. My creative life is blooming and I feel more alive than I have in many years. Yes, I did come from a long, drawn out battle that was my mother’s illness and passing, but I wonder about my life being so easy now. Somehow it doesn’t feel right (much as I enjoy it).

And my dear, wise friend told me to graciously accept this grace from God and not worry. There would be trials ahead but right now, accept, enjoy, and go along with it. Today’s psalm was an affirmation of her words: God wants me to lie down in the green grass next to the still waters.

The famous Ecclesiastes 3 (“To everything there is a season . . .”) really rings true for me today. This is my season to heal, my season of peace.

As the leper in today’s Gospel runs to Jesus, prostrates himself at His feet and thanks him for his healing, so I must do the same: accept the gift and be thankful for it and put away all worry. Live in the present moment and let the future take care of itself.

Thank you, Jesus.

Copyright 2010 Susan Bailey

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #10

Susan Bailey — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 17:00:21 +0000

Back after several months away, Susan explains her absence from podcasting and shares her Lenten journey which she describes as a time of purification in the dessert.

She encourages your feedback and invites you to share your Lenten journey with the listeners by writing to her at susan@susanbailey.net or calling the hotline number, 206-309-0027.

Novena to St. Therese

Open with hymn: Chosen Flower, Rose of Love (tune is Ode to Joy)
as heard on the podcast, performed by Susan, lyrics written by Sr. Debra-Therese Carroll

St. Therese the little flower
Chosen by the Lord above
Light the spark of love within us
Chosen flower, rose of love
As we make our prayers and petitions
Bring them to God’s holy throne
Let your perfume go before them
Making our requests your own.

Sweet apostle of God’s mercy
In whose love you came to share
You surrendered self completely
In your tasks and in your prayer
Lead us to that lowly valley
Where the humble find their God
Light our pathway, cheer our spirits
Walking where the Master trod.

Confidence, abandonment
Simplicity in us instill
That like you we may completely
Follow God’s most tender will
In the hours of great darkness
Light the lamp of faith we need
Trusting your eternal promise
That for us you’ll intercede

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. THERESE
O Glorious St. Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to aid and inspire the human family, I implore your Miraculous Intercession. You are so powerful in obtaining every need of body and spirit from the Heart of God. Holy Mother Church proclaims you “Prodigy of Miracles . the Greatest Saint of Modern Times.” Now I fervently beseech you to answer my petition: (mention petition here) and to carry out your promises of spending Heaven doing good upon earth . . . of letting fall from heaven a shower of Roses. Little Flower, give me your childlike faith, to see the Face of God in the people and experiences of my life, and to love God with full confidence. St. Therese, my Carmelite Sister, I will fulfill your plea “to be made known everywhere” and I will continue to lead others to Jesus through you. Amen.

Ending Hymn: Canticle of Love (tune: The Church’s One Foundation)

Therese the flame of love bright
Abided in your heart
You listened still like Mary
And chose the better part
You made yourself a dwelling
For Him who reigns above
O sing for us your story
Your canticle of love.

To live of love’s your story
A hidden life unknown
Just like the tender Master
Who had no earthly home
But love your sole desire
Transformed all time and space
In every place and moment
You found God’s loving grace.

Your melody of love sung
Will find a welcome here
Its descant’s high resounding
Will cast out all our fear
The God of love and mercy
With whom you took delight
Will be for us a shelter
By day and in our night. Amen.
from the Community of Teresian Carmelites, Worcester, MA

Copyright 2010 Susan Bailey

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #9

Susan Bailey — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 17:00:59 +0000

Susan shares how Our Lady sent a special angel to guide her mother on a path of love and kindness to her new home at Wayland Nursing and Rehabilitation Nursing Home. In every little detail of life, God guides us with His loving hand.

Susan refers to a story about her father’s salvation in the podcast. Read about it here – “Remembering My Dad.”

Susan also shares good news! As you recall, she conversed with Among Women podcaster Pat Gohn, sharing stories about their husband’s unemployment journeys. Pat recently shared through her blog that her husband had landed a full time job after 13 months out of work. Thanks be to God! You can read her blog here.

Music: “Under My Immaculate Mantle,” written and performed by Susan Bailey, from the Mary, Queen of Peace Meditation Guide & Sung Rosary.

Contact Susan at susan@susanbailey.net (note the email address change) if you’d like to leave a comment. You can also write her to inquire about her coming to your parish to speak, sharing her story and her music.

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #8

Susan Bailey — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:54 +0000

In this episode, Susan shares a special gift of grace that God extended to her regarding her mother, despite a sense of melancholy that the season has brought. She also shares an answer to prayer which has proven to be a real Christmas gift from God.

Music: “Lord, Send Out Your Spirit” written and performed by Susan Bailey

Masses for the Unemployed – submit your name to have masses said for you for one month

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #7

Susan Bailey — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:00:24 +0000

Susan and Pat continue discussing their husbands’ unemployment and the spiritual exercises and prayers they use to “keep the faith.”

Music: “Come Into His Heart,” written and performed by Susan Bailey from her Teach Me to Love album, available for sale on CD, and also available on iTunes.

Links:
Among Women Podcast
Novena to St. Joseph, patron of workers

I’d love your feedback! Write me at susan@gvonline.net or call 206-600-6940.

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #6

Susan Bailey — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 18:00:44 +0000

No one should ever have to go through a trial alone – God meant for us to be in community. Pat Gohn from the Among Women Podcast graciously agreed to be interviewed and we shared our common story of husbands unemployed and how our families are dealing with it. I found this conversation to be really informative and comforting too – Pat shares a lot of wisdom and I discovered much in the course of our conversation that I had not been aware of before. This interview was informative and healing for me, and I hope it will be for you too.

This week I am airing part one of the interview, and next week I will air the conclusion.

Music: “The Lord Has Come to Save You,” written and performed by Susan Bailey from her Advent/Christmas album, Wait with Me: Advent of the Promised Son, available on CD and iTunes/digital download.

Pat Gohn’s Among Women Podcast

Related Reading: “In Good Times and Bad: 5 Ways to Support Your Husband through Tough Times.” by Danielle Bean of Faith and Family Magazine

I’d love your feedback! Write to me at susan@gvonline.net or call the hotline at 206-600-6940 and I’ll play your feedback on the next episode. I am especially interesting in hearing stories from listeners about how they are coping with similar trials.

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #5

Susan Bailey — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:00:37 +0000

In this episode of “How Can I Keep from Singing,” Susan shares the miraculous turnaround with her mother and God’s deliberate intervention.

Links of interest:
Sean McGaughey - Catholic New Media Roundup

Sarah Reinhard - Just Another Day of Catholic Pondering

Kitty Cleveland - Kitty Cleveland Online, Be Not Afraid CD

Song:
“He Looked at Me” written by Jaymie Stuart Wolfe, performed by Susan Bailey, from Wait with Me: Advent of the Promised Son

Contact:

Email: susan@gvonline.net, or call the hot line, 206-600-6940

How Can I Keep from Singing Podcast – Episode #4

Susan Bailey — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:00:03 +0000

In the fourth episode of this podcast-on-the-go, Susan talks about 2 recent events in her life that have had a transforming effect, and how dying to self is incomplete without transformation.

Special links: GrapeVine – www.gvonline.net
Photo album of Rich’s ordination: http://www.4marks.com/ALB0452081YQVA

Song: “Something Beautiful,” written and performed by Susan Bailey, from her Teach Me to Love album.

How Can I Keep From Singing Podcast – Episode #3

Susan Bailey — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:00:24 +0000

Episode #3 is about “Trusting.” After a month away from podcasting, Susan shares what has been going on that has kept her from the microphone – in fact, today, she podcasts from her car, proving there’s always a way to get around obstacles! Stories include an update on the job front for her husband, Rich, and a sad, but inevitable turn regarding her elderly mother’s health. And, she shares a simple prayer that has been a foundation of strength in her life. She ends the podcast with a special musical tribute to her mom.

Prayer: The Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

Music: “Spirit of Life” written and composed by Carolyn McDade (hymn #123 in the Unitarian Universalist hymnal, Singing the Living Tradition), performed by Susan Bailey.

Special links:
Frederica Mathewes-Green
Ancient Faith Radio

Susan would enjoy your feedback. Share your stories, your prayer requests. Write to her at susan@gvonline.net or call the feedback line at 206-600-6940. Support her ministry by visiting her Purchase page to buy books and CDs.

Copyright 2009 Susan Bailey

How Can I Keep from Singing – Episode #2

Susan Bailey — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:00:54 +0000

Episode #2 is about “Leaping” (as in, taking a giant leap of faith). Susan shares a story from 16 years ago how a giant leap of faith netted great and generous blessings from God. She wonders if the present trial being experienced by her family will necessitate such a giant leap of faith again and shares ways of remembering blessings as a means of feeding the trust to take leaps of faith.

Scripture: Exodus 14

Music: “Touch the Sky” written and performed by Susan Bailey.

Susan would enjoy your feedback. Share your stories, your prayer requests. Write to her at susan@gvonline.net or call the feedback line at 206-600-6940. Support her ministry by visiting her Purchase page to buy books and CDs.

How Can I Keep From Singing Podcast – Episode #1

Susan Bailey — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:00:20 +0000

Welcome to “How Can I Keep from Singing,” a supplemental podcast in support of the Marian Cenacle Rosary Podcast. In this ‘faith in action’ series, host Susan Bailey shares from her own life how praying and singing the rosary, studying the word of God and practicing other spiritual exercises nourishes her faith and surrounds her with a shield of grace as she faces the trials of unemployment in her family. A song, often sung and written by Susan, will be featured with each podcast episode. May this series encourage you as you face the trials of this difficult economy, or any other trial in your life.

In Episode #1, titled “Feasting,” Susan shares how feasting on prayer, the scriptures, the mass and the Eucharist have strengthened her and surrounded her with grace. And how a very familiar prayer, and one line in particular, has given her much needed strength.

Scripture: Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15 (from the Sunday Lectionary, 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Psalm 34 (from the Sunday Lectionary, 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time)

Music: “How Can I Keep from Singing” (Quaker Hymn), performed by Susan Bailey.

Susan would enjoy your feedback. Share your stories, your prayer requests. Write to her at susan@gvonline.net or call the feedback line at 206-600-6940.

Women of the Bible Podcast – Episode #25 – Mary of Magdala

Susan Bailey — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 17:00:24 +0000

Scene 25: Mary of Magdala (Easter) (John 20) - Mary of Magdala is brave enough to visit the empty tomb and joyfully finds her teacher disguised as the gardener. She and the others finally “get it” about the resurrection, and hopefully so do we!

Listen on the Player:

Music:

“He’s Alive” by Susan Bailey www.SusanBailey.net
Opening and closing theme: “Women of Faith,” Lynn Cooper, www.lynncoopermusic.com

Contact Linda with your comments: lgkelley@charter.net
Visit her website for more information and watch videos: www.theatrerising.com

Narrator and producer: Susan Bailey

Women of the Bible Podcast – Episode #24 – The Passion According to Mary

Susan Bailey — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 16:00:07 +0000

Scene 24: The Passion According to Mary (John 19:25-27) - Mary sees her son condemned, tortured, and dead on a cross! What must this be like for any mother, much less the son of God!

Listen on the Player:

Music:

” Let Mercy Flow”, by Falling You www.markmallett.com

Opening and closing theme: “Women of Faith,” Lynn Cooper, www.lynncoopermusic.com

Contact Linda with your comments: lgkelley@charter.net
Visit her website for more information and watch videos: www.theatrerising.com

Narrator and producer: Susan Bailey

Women of the Bible Podcast – Episode #23 – Pilate’s Wife

Susan Bailey — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 15:00:36 +0000

Scene 23: Pilate’s Wife (Matt. 27:19) – She had a dream that Jesus was innocent and tried to warn Pilate not to harm him, but would he listen to her intuitions and advice?

Listen on the Player:

Music:

“Wicked” by Falling You – http://www.magnatunes.com/
Opening and closing theme: “Women of Faith,” Lynn Cooper, www.lynncoopermusic.com

Contact Linda with your comments: lgkelley@charter.net
Visit her website for more information and watch videos: www.theatrerising.com

Narrator and producer: Susan Bailey

Rocking Romans – 2009 Best of Catholic Music – Catholic CD Review

Susan Bailey — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:00:43 +0000

This is the second in the series of the Rocking Romans compilation CDs. Last year’s debut disc was quite an eclectic mix of different styles and production values, but this year’s edition has a much more youth-oriented and consistent flavor which makes this CD a much more satisfying listen. This is despite being recorded in different studios from over 6 countries.

Canadians are admirably represented with solid cuts by Tuesday Bloom (“My Everything”) and Chris Bray (“Finally Let Go”). American artist, Milo, contributes a great song, “Rekindled” and SALT, from Malta, has another winner with “Jars of Clay”.

There are also some artists who are new to North American listeners. “Sapientia” by Vox Nova is a real winner, mixing a chant feel with ambient techno.

Popple contributes a song that has a great sense of humor, similar to that of the Bare Naked Ladies. Billie Tarascio, who contributed to the first CD, shows how much of a difference a producer can make with her song “Send Me”, produced by David Smith. Smith also was responsible for the production of this CD which has very good production values on average.

This is definitely one of the stronger compilation CDs out there and is well deserving of a listen. Check out www.rockingromans.com to check out the other resources and artists that are on this great new resource for Catholic music. Well done.

Reviewed by Dave Wang

Women of the Bible Podcast – Episode #22 – Mary of Bethany

Susan Bailey — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 15:00:15 +0000

Scene 22: Mary of Bethany (Luke 7:38-39) – Mary of Bethany, Martha’s sister is head-over-feet for Jesus and washes them with her hair. She is so grateful that Jesus has raised her brother Lazarus from the dead!

Listen on the player:

Music:

“I Worship” by Falling You, www.SalSolo.com

Opening and closing theme: “Women of Faith,” Lynn Cooper, www.lynncoopermusic.com

Contact Linda with your comments: lgkelley@charter.net
Visit her website for more information and watch videos: www.theatrerising.com

Narrator and producer: Susan Bailey

Alexandra Celano – I’m Overcome – Catholic CD Review

Susan Bailey — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:00:40 +0000

A new face in Catholic and Christian Country music, Alexandra Celano brings a pleasing mix through her debut recording, I’m Overcome.

While the project is not groundbreaking, it is organic and very easy to listen to. It’s what I love best about Country music – a few simple instruments played well, great vocals and sweet harmonies, making for a wonderful listening experience.

The songwriting is tight, with catchy refrains and upbeat melodies. Inspiring songs with a personal praise and worship theme include “I’m Overcome” and gospel-tinged “Let the River Flow.” “In This Place” is a lovely invitation to worship in the House of God.

I particularly liked “You’re Good for Me,” a love song with a unique refrain: You’re good for me. / Every time I look into your eyes I see / My other half, the one that fits me perfectly, / So naturally, it’s you. / You’re good for me.”

Touching tributes to a beloved grandfather (“Grandpa”) and a dearly loved child who passed away (“Dancing Angel ‘Normita’”) bring just the right personal touch.

A Christmas-related bonus track is included entitled “A Child is Born.”

I’m Overcome is the perfect companion to your work day or drive or chores around the house. It’ll keep you inspired.

Purchase your copy of I’m Overcome through Celano’s website, www.alexandracelano.com.

Copyright 2009 Susan Bailey

Women of the Bible Podcast – Episode #21 – Martha and Mary of Bethany

Susan Bailey — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:00:14 +0000

Scene 21: Martha and Mary of Bethany (Martha and Lazarus’ Sister) (Luke 10:38-42) – Martha (as in Martha Stewart!) is passionate about many inconsequential things. But she stops multi-tasking long enough to “get it” about Jesus’ message. Mary of Bethany, Martha’s sister is head-over-feet for Jesus and washes them with her hair. She is so grateful that Jesus has raised her brother Lazarus from the dead!

Listen on the player:

Music:

“What Mary has Chosen to Do”, Words and Music by Susan Bailey, www.susanbailey.net

Opening and closing theme: “Women of Faith,” Lynn Cooper, www.lynncoopermusic.com

Contact Linda with your comments: lgkelley@charter.net
Visit her website for more information and watch videos: www.theatrerising.com

Narrator and producer: Susan Bailey

Peter Beirer – All Creation Groans – Catholic CD Review

Susan Bailey — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:28:52 +0000

Peter Beirer’s debut album All Creation Groans comes from the long time music minister/singer/songwriter and performer. The album was written over a period of eight years and its musical diversity reflects the different spiritual seasons in Beirer’s life.

Beirer combines horns and jazzy beats reminiscent of Skaa music with gritty vocals and honest lyrics. The result is an authentic, live feel. Even the album art consisting of drawings of skeletons underground, a lamb in a womb, and the Virgin Mary with angel wings contributes to the mood of unabashed honesty within the music. Highlights on the album include the upbeat catchy opening tune “Creation,” “Alone,” and “Long Time.”

Beirer’s website reveals he is currently working full time as the Coordinator of Youth Ministry at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Mankato, MN, leading liturgical choirs, coordinating Young Neighbors in Action, operating as adjunct staff to the Center for Ministry Development. To find out more, and to purchase All Creation Groans, visit Bierer’s website at www.peterbierer.com.

Reviewed by Billie Tarascio

Women of the Bible Podcast – Episode #20 – The Samaritan Woman at the Well

Susan Bailey — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 17:00:12 +0000

Scene 20: The Samaritan Woman at the Well (John 4:1-23) - The Samaritan woman gets schooled by Jesus at the well. She doesn’t seem to mind when he tells her to bring all her husbands, and all the disparaging villagers for some REAL refreshment!

Listen on the player:

Music:

“Living Water”, Words and Music by Margo B. Smith as previously recorded on “Sending Up a Prayer. ” www.margobsmith.com

Opening and closing theme: “Women of Faith,” Lynn Cooper, www.lynncoopermusic.com

Contact Linda with your comments: lgkelley@charter.net
Visit her website for more information and watch videos: www.theatrerising.com

Narrator and producer: Susan Bailey