Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]: May 2008

Saturday, May 31, 2008

SAVED FROM A TO Z - One Bread, One Body, 6/1/2008

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Grandparents" at:
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth is designed as a bulletin insert
which you can use at your local church to keep up to date on what the Holy
Father is saying. You are free to reproduce it for this purpose.
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Sunday, June 1, 2008, 9th Sunday Ordinary Time

Deuteronomy 11:18, 26-28, 32, Romans 3:21-25, 28, Psalm 31, Matthew
7:21-27
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/060108.shtml

SAVED FROM A TO Z

"All men are now undeservedly justified by the gift of God, through the
redemption wrought in Christ Jesus." —Romans 3:24

"You were dead because of your sins and offenses" (Eph 2:1). You "sinned
and [were] deprived of the glory of God" (Rm 3:23). Because you sinned,
even if it were but one sin, you have "become guilty on all counts" as a
transgressor of God's law (Jas 2:10). When you sinned, you turned away
from God's integrated plan of holiness and bought into the system of sin.
You were then connected into the fabric of sin, plugged into sin rather
than God, joined to all sins ever committed (see Lk 11:50).

This is what Jesus means when He says our "guilt stretches from the blood
of Abel to the blood of Zechariah" (Lk 11:51). He says, in effect, that
when we join in sin, we sin from A to Z.

The good news is that Jesus is the new A to Z, "the Alpha and the Omega,
the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End!" (Rv 22:13) Through His
blood, Jesus expiates and forgives sins from A to Z (Rm 3:25). If we
believe in Jesus and repent sincerely of sin, He justifies us in the sight
of God (Rm 3:24, 26). Accept Jesus as your Redeemer, Savior, and Lord. Be
a new creation —from A to Z.

Prayer: Jesus, I want to belong to You with all my heart. I abandon myself
to You. Use me according to Your will.

Promise: "None of those who cry out 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom
of God but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven." —Mt
7:21

Praise: Praise Jesus, the Alpha and the Omega, the Author and Finisher of
our faith (Heb 12:2).

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (For a
related teaching, order our leaflet, "Accepting Jesus as Lord, Savior, and
God", or on audio AV 43-1 or video V-43.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from June
1, 2008 through July 31, 2008
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, January 4, 2008

The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be
free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have
granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or
statements expressed.

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Friday, May 30, 2008

A RENEWED AND NEW PENTECOST - One Bread, One Body, 5/31/2008

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Grandparents" at:
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Saturday, May 31, 2008, Visitation, Immaculate Heart of Mary

Zephaniah 3:14-18 or, Romans 12:9-16, Isaiah 12:2-6, Luke 1:39-56
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/053108.shtml

A RENEWED AND NEW PENTECOST

"When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leapt in her womb.
Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." —Luke 1:41

Mary is the spouse of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit overshadowed her and she
conceived Jesus, Who is God (Lk 1:35). Mary is the minister of the Spirit.
Both Elizabeth and John, the baby in her womb, received the Holy Spirit
when Mary came to visit. Mary is the intercessor of the Spirit. In the
upper room with Jesus' disciples, she prayed for the Holy Spirit to come
(Acts 1:14). Mary is the spouse, minister, and intercessor of the Spirit.

On this feast day celebrating Mary's visit with Elizabeth and John, let's
be open to the Lord working through Mary to renew us with the Holy Spirit
of Pentecost. If we have stifled (1 Thes 5:19) or saddened the Spirit (Eph
4:30), we must repent. Mary, through her Immaculate Heart, will lay bare
the thoughts of our hearts and confront us with our sins (see Lk 2:35).
Then we can turn to Jesus, repent, go to Confession, and stir into flame
the gift of the Spirit (2 Tm 1:6).

After the first outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Jesus'
disciples experienced a new coming of the Spirit. "The place where they
were gathered shook as they prayed. They were filled with the Holy Spirit
and continued to speak God's word with confidence" (Acts 4:31). Today,
when we commemorate both Mary's Visitation and her Immaculate Heart, we
can, with Mary's help, receive both a renewed and new Pentecost. Come,
Holy Spirit!

Prayer: Father, may I let You renew my Confirmation today.

Promise: "Bless your persecutors; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice
with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Have the same attitude
toward all. Put away ambitious thoughts and associate with those who are
lowly." —Rm 12:14-16

Praise: The pureness of Mary's Immaculate Heart compelled her to think not
of herself but of visiting her cousin Elizabeth in her time of need.

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from April
1, 2008 through May 31, 2008
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, October 23, 2007

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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ACC June Newsletter

	teaching, impacting, entertaining, inspiring new for you in june on your australian christian channel more info>

// youth space //

There's a generation out there that has everything to live with, but nothing to live for. Sit back and let Chad Daniels' twisted and unorthodox approach provoke you to see a Jesus who loves you and a Jesus who is confrontational on all issues in life. Youth Bytes aims to motivate people to seek after a personal relationship with Jesus Christ instead of being satisfied with the rituals of Christianity. Let Youth Bytes introduce you to a Jesus who is alive! Youth Bytes airs Tuesday evenings at 5:30 .

more info >

// history revealed //

Discover personal accounts of wartime survival in this international award-winning documentary that captures the compelling story and eyewitness account of six survivors of WWII in The Netherlands. With the revelation of Hitler's 'Final Solution and the uncertainty of liberation, this program uncovers the intensely human aspect of the Dutch struggle against Nazi tyranny. The Reckoning airs on Saturday June 21. Visit our features pages for more great docos, movies and music specials.

more info >

// focus on guy //

This one time Planetshakers team member and Paradise Community Church regular has leapt to the public eye with the success resulting from his Australian Idol win and subsequent three hit records. But what about the man not so often seen in the public eye? How does he balance his success with his faith, family and friends? Along with music clips and live performances, get to know Guy as never before. Meet Guy Sebastian, Wednesday June 25 at 7:30 pm .

more info >

COUNTDOWN TO CONFERENCE //

In the lead up to Hillsong Conference 2008, to be held at Sydney's Acer Arena from the 7th - 11th of July, revisit last years event from the comfort of your lounge room, with some of the best bits airing every Tuesday night in June. Conference Highlights featuring the 2007 Hillsong Conference air on Tuesday nights at 10:00 and Wednesday afternoons at 3:00.

more info >

DOWNLOAD TV GUIDE //

Check out all the latest details about what's on this month including info on all new programs, documentaries, movies and music specials by downloading and printing the ACC TV guide. A new TV guide goes online at the end of every month. Never miss anything again!

more info >

Thursday, May 29, 2008

TRULY LOVING - One Bread, One Body, 5/30/2008

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Grandparents" at:
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Friday, May 30, 2008, Sacred Heart

Deuteronomy 7:6-11, 1 John 4:7-16, Psalm 103, Matthew 11:25-30
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/053008.shtml

TRULY LOVING

"Love, then, consists in this: not that we have loved God but that He has
loved us and has sent His Son as an Offering for our sins...if God has
loved us so, we must have the same love for one another." —1 John 4:10-11

Today, the feast day of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we are reminded of what
Jesus said to St. Margaret Mary Alocoque: "I promise you that My all
powerful love will grant to all those who will receive Communion on the
First Fridays, for nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance:
they will not die in My displeasure, nor without receiving the sacraments;
and My Heart will be their secure refuge in that last hour."

Many of you who are reading this reflection today attend daily Mass,
including attending the past nine consecutive First Fridays. But how about
doing so for those whom you dearly love? As you look for ways to pray
fervently for your loved ones, most especially those who have left the
Church, consider, as an intercessor, going one step further with this
Sacred Heart promise, and attend Mass for them, at nine consecutive First
Friday Masses, confident in the infinite mercy of Jesus and living this
commitment to truly love one another (1 Jn 4:11). You stood up for your
loved one as a parent, godparent, or witness at their baptism when they
didn't know what they were doing back then. You can, as an intercessor,
attend Mass in their place, when they have lost their way spiritually and
don't know what they are doing now.

Remember, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is interceding for your loved one with
you, praying: "Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing"
(Lk 23:34).

Prayer: Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You.

Promise: "He fills your lifetime with good." —Ps 103:5

Praise: Pete brings Jesus into the homes of newlyweds by giving as wedding
gifts framed pictures of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Wednesday, May 28, 2008

SPIRITUAL GROWTH OR ABORTION - One Bread, One Body, 5/29/2008

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Grandparents" at:
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Thursday, May 29, 2008

1 Peter 2:2-5, 9-12, Psalm 100, Mark 10:46-52
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052908.shtml

SPIRITUAL GROWTH OR ABORTION

"Be as eager for milk as newborn babies — pure milk of the Spirit to make
you grow unto salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is
good." —1 Peter 2:2-3

On Pentecost we received the Holy Spirit in a new way. As at the first
Pentecost, the Lord is transforming His people and making us His witnesses
even to ends of the earth (see Acts 1:8). Yet will this Pentecost have its
full effect? Will we grow in the Spirit or abort our new life in the
Spirit?

To grow in the Spirit, we must "be as eager for milk as newborn babies —
pure milk of the Spirit" (1 Pt 2:2) to make us grow unto salvation. The
milk, food, and meat of the Spirit is the word of God (see Heb 5:12-14; Mt
4:4). The body and blood of Jesus in Holy Communion is also our spiritual
food and drink (Jn 6:55). If we let the Lord feed us His body, blood, and
word, we will grow in the Spirit.

However, many Christians have lost their appetite for spiritual
nourishment. The newspaper is read more often than the Bible. A morning
cup of coffee or a TV program are a higher priority than daily Communion.
We have glutted ourselves with the pleasures of the world and ruined our
appetite for the things of God. We are spiritually starving, anorexic, and
stunted in our growth. We must repent and crucify our flesh with its
passions and desires (Gal 5:24). Then we will want spiritual food. Then we
will eat and grow in the Spirit.

Prayer: Father, may I reappraise my lifestyle in the light of Christ (Phil
3:7).

Promise: "The blind man said, 'I want to see.' Jesus said in reply, 'Be on
your way! Your faith has healed you.' " —Mk 10:51-52

Praise: Fasting and praying before the Blessed Sacrament keeps Vincent
spiritually well-nourished.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Spiritual Anorexia" on audio AV
101-1 or video V-101.)

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Tuesday, May 27, 2008

THANK YOU, JESUS - One Bread, One Body, 5/28/2008

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Grandparents" at:
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

1 Peter 1:18-25, Psalm 147, Mark 10:32-45
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052808.shtml

THANK YOU, JESUS

"Realize that you were delivered from the futile way of life your fathers
handed on to you, not by any diminishable sum of silver or gold, but by
Christ's blood beyond all price." —1 Peter 1:18-19

When we give our lives to Jesus and accept Him as our Savior, Lord, and
God, we change from darkness to light, futility to fulfillment, and death
to life. We think we'll never forget what a difference it is to be a
Christian. Yet after a while the devil tries to take the edge off of our
Christian joy. He tries to diminish the life-changing significance of
belonging to Jesus. However, the Lord reminds us that we have been
delivered from the futile way of life "by Christ's blood beyond all price"
(1 Pt 1:18-19).

Sometimes the devil tries us to make us think that, although we are
Christians, we aren't centered on God. However, God's word says: "It is
through [Jesus] that you are believers in God, the God Who raised Him from
the dead and gave Him glory. Your faith and hope, then, are centered in
God" (1 Pt 1:21).

Another lie of the evil one is to make us doubt the permanence of our life
in Christ. God's word again counters with the truth: "Your rebirth has
come, not from a destructible but from an indestructible seed, through the
living and enduring Word of God...the grass withers, the flower wilts, but
the Word of the Lord endures forever" (1 Pt 1:23, 24).

Our life in Christ is not diminishable, not insufficient, and not
destructible. Our life in Christ is full, perfect, and eternal. We must
not let the devil rob us of our joy in Christ. We must resist his
temptations and live by faith our glorious life in Christ.

Prayer: Father, may I "rejoice with inexpressible joy" (1 Pt 1:8) because
I am a Christian.

Promise: "The Son of Man has not come to be served but to serve — to give
His life in ransom for the many." —Mk 10:45

Praise: Bill and Sarah allowed God to work through their marriage by
teaching new Catholics in the RCIA program for eighteen years.

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Monday, May 26, 2008

ABUNDANT SOBRIETY - One Bread, One Body, 5/27/2008

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Grandparents" at:
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Tuesday, May 27, 2008, St. Augustine of Canterbury

1 Peter 1:10-16, Psalm 98, Mark 10:28-31
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052708.shtml

ABUNDANT SOBRIETY

"Jesus answered: 'I give you My word, there is no one who has given up
home, brothers or sisters, mother or father, children or property, for Me
and for the gospel who will not receive in this present age a hundred
times as many." —Mark 10:29-30

After having received the living waters of the Holy Spirit this Pentecost,
we realize that our heavenly Father is a bountiful provider for His
children. He gives us more than we can ever ask for or imagine (Eph 3:20).
He supplies our "needs fully, in a way worthy of His magnificent riches in
Christ Jesus" (Phil 4:19). Jesus also gives bountifully. For example, He
gives us a hundred times more than we gave up to follow Him. The Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit constantly lavish Their love on us.

In the midst of such an abundant life (see Jn 10:10), we are commanded by
the Lord to "live soberly" (1 Pt 1:13). The only way to live soberly amid
such an abundance is to be great and total givers. We must give
abundantly — "good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over"
(Lk 6:38). We must give quickly — almost as fast as God gives to us. We
must give everything.

This would seem to solve our problem of how to live soberly while
receiving an abundance. However, the Lord keeps on giving, and the more we
give, the more He gives (see Mk 4:24). He always outgives us. To maintain
sobriety, we must continue to give everything quickly, as long as we live.
Live an abundant, sober life.

Prayer: Father, make me delightfully sober.

Promise: "Be holy, for I am holy." —1 Pt 1:16

Praise: St. Augustine came to the Pope with his companions' resignations
and left as the leader of the mission.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, "The Beatitudes," or our tape
on audio AV 44-3 or video V-44.)

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2008 Bible Institute

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Jesus Christ is Lord! Alleluia! Please join for this year's Bible Institute. More information and online registration is available on the PM website.

The Twenty-Second Annual
Bible Institute

July 25, 2008 - August 2, 2008
Cincinnati, Ohio

FEATURED SPEAKERS AND EVENTS

Dan Schneider an apologetic evangelist will be the featured speaker for the 2008 Institute.

Additional speakers and events include:

Most Reverend Daniel E. Pilarczyk
Fr. Bill McCarthy
Fr. Gregory Bramlage
Fr. Rob Jack
Jack and Sue Elsaesser
Stirring Liturgies & Much, Much More

More information about this year's speakers and programs will be coming soon.

"YOU WILL BE CLOTHED WITH POWER FROM ON HIGH!" — Luke 24:39

Jesus left us with all the resources we need to live a victorious life in the power of the Holy Spirit. He has promised to "clothe us in power." So that we may move forward in faith to the fullness of joy.

"If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matt 17:20) Are there mountains of depression, discouragement, hopelessness, and brokenheartedness that you wish to move in your life? The Lord will give you the power and the gifts to do the impossible — through His Holy Spirit.

Come and join others at the Institute as we look to the Holy Spirit to "clothe you in power" and send you forth with the weapons and gifts needed to change your life and inspire those around you!

FEATURED SEMINARS

To Heal as Jesus Heals
Are you surrounded by those who are suffering from physical, emotional, or spiritual illness? Healing is available in Christ! In this seminar you will learn to use the spiritual gift of healing. Jesus wishes to bring hope and wholeness to your own life and to those around you.

How to Teach the Bible in the Power of the Holy Spirit
Do you love God's Word and want to share it with others? This amazing four-day seminar will give you the tools and confidence needed to teach the Bible in small groups. Presentation has seen hundreds of people who are now teaching in many different settings. You can join their number.

Discipleship 101: Building the Foundation
Perhaps, your heart is on fire with a love for Jesus. You want to be all that He calls you to be. But, how do you get in touch with His plan? This three-day program will give you the tools, inspiration, and resources to build a strong foundation on Christ and to move forward in serving Him with your whole heart.

Do You Reject Satan: Victory in Spiritual Warfare
Do you know that you are in a spiritual battle? Satan is real. He is a fallen angel bent on our destruction. However, Jesus has already, not only, won the battle but the war. We can join in on this victory by accepting the authority that Christ has given us as we live our everyday lives. This one-day seminar will open your eyes to the spiritual realities and give you the weapons to insure your participation in the victory.

MORE SEMINARS

Many seminars are offered at the Bible Institute that are based on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Some of the seminar topics are:

How to Teach the Bible
Life in the Spirit Seminar
Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts
To Heal as Jesus Heals
Discipleship 101
Growth & Maturity in the Spirit: Roots, Shoots & Fruit
Healing the Family Tree
The Gift of Leadership
Prophecy & Discernment
Do You Reject Satan: Victory in Spiritual Warfare
The Gift of Intercession
Single for the Lord
Bible Timeline
Praise & Worship: Standing in the Glory
The Doctors of the Church
God's Plan of Love: The Pearl of Great Price

RAVE REVIEWS!

What past participants found best about the Bible Institute!

"The wisdom, the love and the humility of our teachers... fantastic teachers"

"All the teaching sessions were excellent."

"The speakers have been clear and concise and filled with the Holy Spirit..!"

"This is my fourth year... the fellowship and the teaching is second to none."

"The hospitality was superb. The enthusiasm and faith of the PM members, I found genuine and touching."

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND THE BIBLE INSTITUTE?

Are you dismayed by the darkness that surrounds us in this culture? Do you want to make a difference by bringing the light of Christ to others? Have you felt that the Lord is calling you to something more?

The Lord wants you to grow and mature as a disciple of His. The Bible Institute offers you a unique opportunity to receive teaching, healing, and empowerment by the Holy Spirit. You can be a more effective disciple to help bring the victory of Christ to our weary world. Come and experience the power of God working through the Institute as have many others in the past

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

More information and online registration is available on the PM website.

Bible Institute Committee
P.O. Box 58308
Cincinnati, OH 45238
(513) 922-0923
Email: bibleinst@presentationministries.com

As always thank you for your prayers and support of Presentation Ministries.

In Christ,
Chris Jasek
PM Webmaster

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Sunday, May 25, 2008

"I DO!" OR "I DO..."? - One Bread, One Body, 5/26/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

Remembering Pope John Paul II: Sign And Witness Of Risen Christ
Educational Crisis Challenges All
In Defense of Life: Marriage: Under Attack
Media At The Crossroads Between Self-Promotion And Service
Christians Face Education Crisis With Faith And Hope

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Monday, May 26, 2008, St. Philip Neri

1 Peter 1:3-9, Psalm 111, Mark 10:17-27
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052608.shtml

"I DO!" OR "I DO..."?

"Teacher, what must I do?" —Mark 10:17

The rich young man was what we call today a "can-do" individual. He was
always doing something. First, he ran up to Jesus and knelt before Him. He
then asked, "Good Teacher, what must I do to share in everlasting life?"
Jesus, recognizing the man's mindset, accordingly gave him a list of
things to do: the commandments. The young man's response was another
action-oriented one: " 'I have kept all these.' Check those off of my
to-do list" (Mk 10:20). Jesus continued to meet the man right where he
was, saying, "There is one thing more you must do" (Mk 10:21). Jesus gave
him exactly the answer he wanted — something he could do to prepare his
soul to accept Jesus and receive eternal life — but the man "went away
sad" (Mk 10:22).

If we base our relationship with Jesus on what we do, then so will Jesus.
Remember, Jesus Himself said: "The measure with which you measure will be
used to measure you" (Mt 7:2). There will always be one thing more we must
do, and "for man it is impossible" (Mk 10:27). When we give our lives to
Jesus in loving service, we in effect marry Him. We say, "I do," as would
a bride and groom. Now, our value comes from being in Christ, and we focus
on loving and serving Him rather than on impressing Him. He continues to
meet us where we are — only now we are in Him, and all is brought to
perfection in Him.

You'll eventually be saying "I do" to Jesus. Which meaning will you
choose — marriage or merit?

Prayer: Jesus, Lord, Savior, God, I DO!

Promise: "Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, He Who
in His great mercy gave us new birth; a birth unto hope which draws its
life from the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." —1 Pt 1:3

Praise: St. Philip was so hospitable to the youth of Rome that his room
was known as "the home of Christian mirth."

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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PM eNewsletter the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

May 25th, the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

oh! Christ, You gave us a gift that is so great that we should
all humbly bow before it in adoration and love, and that is
Your Eucharistic presence.

Let us be in awe of the gift, and on fire with the reception of it.

Let Your Body and Blood start, within us, a change of heart
that will cause us to desire to receive You as often as possible,
but also cause us to want to come, and sit or kneel, in
adoration of this wonderful presence.

Let us be on fire with the knowledge that You are staying with
us, in the Eucharist, and that You are really there.

Let us truly realize that this gift can, and will, change us and
draw us into a life worthy as a vessel of Yours, as You live
in us. Amen and Amen.

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
__________________________________________________

For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the
home page of Presentation Ministries? Please take a look.

http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp
__________________________________________________

One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday "ONE BREAD, ONE BODY"

http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=5/25/2008

"We, many though we are, are one body." —1 Corinthians 10:17

Jesus has made His disciples members of His
body (1 Cor 12:12). This is not just a figure of speech.
We truly are members of His body. Ours is not a superficial
unity; Jesus calls us to be one as He and God the Father
are one (Jn 17:21). This miracle was effected by Jesus'
death and resurrection and our Baptism into Jesus
(1 Cor 12:13). When we sin and thus disrupt the unity of
Christ's body, that unity is restored through the Sacrament
of Reconciliation. To live and deepen the miraculous unity
of our membership in Christ's body, we receive Jesus in
Holy Communion.

"Because the loaf of bread is one, we, many though we are,
are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf" (1 Cor 10:17).
By receiving the body of Christ, we become more deeply
united with the members of the body of Christ. Therefore, it
is very important for us to receive Jesus in Holy Communion
daily or as often as possible. If we receive Jesus with the
deep love of total commitment to Him, this will significantly
affect the whole body of Christ and therefore impact the
whole world.

On this glorious, solemn feast day of the Body and Blood
of Christ, accept the Lord's grace to receive Him in
Holy Communion daily and deeply. Pray for One Bread, One
Body to fulfill its purpose and have this effect in people's lives
and thus be true to its name. When you receive Communion
today, the eucharistic minister will say: "The Body of Christ."
May your "Amen" transform the world by your love for Jesus
and His body.

Monday "I DO!" OR "I DO..."?

http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=5/26/2008
"Teacher, what must I do?" —Mark 10:17

Tuesday ABUNDANT SOBRIETY

http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=5/27/2008

"Jesus answered: 'I give you My word, there is no one who has
given up home, brothers or sisters, mother or father, children
or property, for Me and for the gospel who will not receive in
this present age a hundred times as many." —Mark 10:29-30

For more readings and inspiration from Presentation Ministries,
check us out at
http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp

Share an OBOB e-mail with a friend today! It's easy and
quick and it will make Jesus smile!

http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obobDriveEmail.asp
__________________________________________________

Brochures

" Over 90 Biblically based brochures. Many on topics you
don't usually hear addressed."

This Week's Featured Brochures

· The Scriptural Rosary

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ScripturalRosary.asp

· Sexual Sin, Abortion, and the Pill

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SexSinAbortionPill.asp

· Seek First the Kingdom

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SeekFirst.asp

Seek First the Kingdom (Mt. 6:33)
"Repent! The kingdom of God is at hand!" —Mk 1:15, our translation

Jesus told us to present His gospel by proclaiming that the
kingdom of God is at hand (Mt 10:7). He commanded us to
seek first His kingdom and then everything else would be
given to us (Mt 6:33). Whenever we pray, we should pray for
His kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven (Mt 6:10).
He gave His Church the keys of the kingdom (Mt 16:19).
When Jesus healed and delivered people from the evil one,
these were signs of the kingdom (Lk 11:20). The Last Supper
was a kingdom-celebration (Mt 26:29). Jesus was even put
to death because He claimed to be the King of the Jews
(Lk 23:38). Jesus repeatedly emphasizes that the gospel is
to be presented in terms of the kingdom.

Yet most Christians today never think of Christianity as the
building of a kingdom. They think in terms of personal
relationship with Jesus, membership in a church, salvation,
or life in the Spirit. These are essential aspects of God's
kingdom, but we must see the whole kingdom-vision if we
are to live a true, Biblical Christianity.

This pamphlet seeks to present a vision of God's kingdom:
how real it is, and how different it is from the form of
government we're accustomed to. This will prepare us to
make a decision to give all that we have to become active
citizens in God's kingdom.

· Risen Life

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/RisenLife.asp

View All Brochures

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PM Internet Prayer Requests
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp

I ask Lord that you will unite us in conscience to help one
another out in these difficult times in the Eucharist. I ask Lord
that you will help us to remember you and Mary in defeating
the powers of the evil one and the evil in this world. May we
pray the rosary after recieving you in the Eucharist for a more
effective prayer for all our intentions.Especially for the
immediate conversion of these oil people with thier greed. In
Jesus name Amen.
(J., 5/24/2008 5:52:34 PM)

Plesase pray fro my friend, Virginia's daughter, Melissa J.
who found a lump in her breast this past week. Pray that the
biopsy comes back benign. In Jesus name I pray.
(L.C., North Carolina, 5/24/2008 5:35:16 PM)

I am currently in Afghanistan and my employer wants to
transfer my to South Korea. I pray that my transfer is delayed
until after the end of the year so I have time to spend with my
family and get my home and personal belongings in order. I
know it is possible through prayer to our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Thank-you!
(G., Killeen, TX, United States, 5/24/2008 1:25:21 PM)

I pray to my deliverer that my biopsy is benign.
(Anonymous, 5/24/2008 5:29:34 AM)

For help in being myself without losing self, and for help with
complex issues esp feeling like I am "cursing". For help faith
need-Jesus is the truth gotta keep asking God for truth about
Bridgett, and patience as well as truth about people-who I
don't mind read
(Anonymous, 5/23/2008 11:48:50 PM)

Dear All, please pray for a little baby who is fighting for his
life. 1 lb 6 oz with heart, lung, and intestinal complications.
Was on a respirator, then he was breathing on his own, and
now he's back on. His name is Ignatius Maximillian (Iggy).
Young couple of faith. First baby for them.
(K.N., New York, NY, United States, 5/23/2008 10:09:31 PM)

Praying for the Divine Physician to watch over and care for
Karen and Rick Santorum's baby girl -- Isabella Maria. May
she live a long and joyful life singing praises and glory to
God forever.
(D. & J., PA, United States, 5/23/2008 7:58:53 PM)

Pray that the wall between my husband and I will come
down. restore the communication and peace. bless our marriage
(D., 5/23/2008 7:58:52 PM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp
__________________________________________________

MP3 4 You

The internet ministry for PM is highlighting our downloadable
tapes online. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
are featured as well as The Acts of the Apostles Part 1 thru 4.
Take a moment and check the link below
http://presentationministries.com/tapes/tape.asp?pubID=269
__________________________________________________

Small Christian Communities

We believe the Lord is calling us to build hundreds of more
communities by raising up leaders who will form communities

PM's Small Christian Community Network
Learn about the Communities in our Network

http://presentationministries.com/community/hbcNetwork.asp

Small Christian Community Resources
Introduction to Small Christian Community

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/IntroCommunity.asp

"Unless the Lord Build the House..." — Psalm 127:

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/UnlessTheLordBuild.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Team Manual)

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityManual.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Guide Book)

http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityGuidebook.asp

For more information contact: community@presentationministries.com
__________________________________________________

Bible Telephone Line 2 NEW NUMBERS!

Atlanta 770 521-8570
Cleveland 440 572-4366
Cincinnati 859 291-7000
Columbus 614 470-0020
Dayton 937 640-2740
Indianapolis 317 767-5413
Long Island 631 574-2413
*Los Angeles 213 455-0872
*Miami 305 356-7638
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Listen Online!

Inspired teaching on the daily Scripture readings of the
Catholic Church by Fr. Al Lauer

Best of Daily Bread Radio Program
http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp

__________________________________________________
Pope Benedict XVI

Vatican
Living faith rescues our cultural heritage from the past, Pope says

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/new.php?n=12703

Vatican City, May 21, 2008 / 09:48 am (CNA).- At the
general audience today in the Vatican's Paul VI Hall,
Pope Benedict XVI emphasized the beauty of Christian
culture, which, because it is rooted in Christ, has left a
heritage that remains alive today.

Continuing his series of reflections on the Fathers of the
Church, the pope turned his attention to the poetry of a
little known figure, Romanus the Melodist.

Born in Syria at the end of the fifth century, Romanus
received a classical education, was ordained a deacon,
and settled in Constantinople. He was called the
"Christian Pindar" (a Greek poet) for his lofty
compositions in verse.

His preaching took the form of ......................

Vatican
Christianity is the most profound revolution in history,
Pope declares
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/new.php?n=12729

Vatican City, May 23, 2008 / 11:01 am (CNA).- On Thursday
evening Pope Benedict led a series of liturgical events
dedicated to the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. In his homily,
the Pontiff declared that the unity brought about in the
Eucharist shows that the Christian revolution is the most
profound revolution in human history.

The Corpus Christi events began at seven o'clock in the
evening on Thursday with the Pope celebrating Mass on the
square in front of Rome's Basilica of St. John Lateran. He
then led a Eucharistic procession to the Basilica of
St. Mary Major and concluded the evening with a time for
the adoration of Jesus in the Eucharist.

Benedict XVI dedicated his homily at St. John Lateran to
explaining how the significance of Corpus Christi can be
seen in the three events of the evening. Firstly "our coming
together around the altar of the Lord to be together in His
presence," secondly "the procession, walking with the Lord,"
and finally "kneeling before the Lord in adoration."

Beginning with the gathering around the altar of the Lord,
the Holy Father quoted St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians,
where it is written that "there is no longer Jew or Greek,
there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and
female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.' ... In these
words," said the Pope, "we feel the......................

Catholic News Agency, May 21st & 23rd, 2008

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com
__________________________________________________

Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth

Notable quotations from Pope Benedict XVI and official
teachings of the Roman Catholic Church

GRANDPARENTS

"A TREASURE"
"In no way should [grandparents] ever be excluded from the
family circle. They are a treasure which the younger
generations should not be denied, especially when they bear
witness to their faith." (Address at the Fifth World Meeting of
Families, Valencia, July 8, 2006).

SPECIAL ATTENTION
The Church has always paid special attention to grandparents,
recognizing them as a great treasure from both the human
and social, as well as religious and spiritual viewpoints.

"IMPORTANT ROLE"
In the past, grandparents had an important role in the life and
growth of the family. Even with their advancing age they
continued to be present with their children, their grandchildren
and even their great-grandchildren, giving a living witness of
caring, sacrifice and a daily gift of themselves without reserve.

(Source: Address to Pontifical Council for the Family, April 5, 2008)
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2008-05.asp?navlink=latest
__________________________________________________

PM Ministry List
" The Lord works through PM in many different ways. Below
you can find information about some of our ministries.

Bible Institute http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2005Home.asp

Word Gifts Ministry

http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp
__________________________________________________

2007 RETREATS
Online Registration

2008 RETREATS
Jun 13 - 15
Father's Day Weekend Family Campout

Looking for an EXTRAORDINARY way to spend Father's Day
weekend? Well, here's a great way to enjoy all three days of
Father's Day Weekend with the family ~ campsite hookups
available, housing available in cabins and mobile homes on
site…explore the woods, enjoy bonfires, roast marshmallows,
pray together…spend some real quality time as a family,
celebrating Father's Day together all weekend long!

Jun 20 - 21
Living and Loving Your Vocation

Are you married? Raising a family? Are you a consecrated
Religious? Maybe you are Single for the Lord? Come and
revitalize the love you had at first for your state in life!
Priests and religious most welcome!

Jun 23 - 24
Gifts of the Spirit

Come and hear about more than 30 spiritual gifts
mentioned in the Scriptures: Isaiah 11:2-3 — RENEWAL
GIFTS: Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Strength,
Knowledge, Fear of the Lord. Romans 12:6-8 — UNITY
GIFTS: Prophecy, ...

Jun 24 - 25
Proclaiming God's Word

Twelve simple men began the race (see 2 Tm 4:7) that
carried the good news to the "ends of the world" (Ps 19:5).
Now the disciples have passed the baton to us. Millions of
Christians with the charism of the spiritual gift of ...

Jun 26
Day of Eucharistic Adoration

"For every Christian generation, the Eucharist is
indispensable food that sustains us as we cross the desert
of this world, dried by ideological and economic systems
that do not promote life, but repress it. A world in which the ...

Jun 27 - 28
Prophecy & Deliverance (and Co-Workers' Retreat)

Prophecy is the gift to be sought above all the other gifts
(1 Cor 14:1)...and Jesus taught us to pray, "Deliver us from
evil, Amen."

Jun 30 - Jul 1
Worship and Evangelization

Evangelization is simply inviting others to a personal
encounter with Jesus. "You will receive power when the
Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses...
to the ends of the earth" - Acts1:8. "Worship pleasing ...

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreatSchedule.asp
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Saturday, May 24, 2008

"ONE BREAD, ONE BODY" - One Bread, One Body, 5/25/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Sunday, May 25, 2008, Body and Blood of Jesus, (Corpus Christi)

Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14-16, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, Psalm 147, John 6:51-58
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052508.shtml

"ONE BREAD, ONE BODY"

"We, many though we are, are one body." —1 Corinthians 10:17

Jesus has made His disciples members of His body (1 Cor 12:12). This is
not just a figure of speech. We truly are members of His body. Ours is not
a superficial unity; Jesus calls us to be one as He and God the Father are
one (Jn 17:21). This miracle was effected by Jesus' death and resurrection
and our Baptism into Jesus (1 Cor 12:13). When we sin and thus disrupt the
unity of Christ's body, that unity is restored through the Sacrament of
Reconciliation. To live and deepen the miraculous unity of our membership
in Christ's body, we receive Jesus in Holy Communion.

"Because the loaf of bread is one, we, many though we are, are one body,
for we all partake of the one loaf" (1 Cor 10:17). By receiving the body
of Christ, we become more deeply united with the members of the body of
Christ. Therefore, it is very important for us to receive Jesus in Holy
Communion daily or as often as possible. If we receive Jesus with the deep
love of total commitment to Him, this will significantly affect the whole
body of Christ and therefore impact the whole world.

On this glorious, solemn feast day of the Body and Blood of Christ, accept
the Lord's grace to receive Him in Holy Communion daily and deeply. Pray
for One Bread, One Body to fulfill its purpose and have this effect in
people's lives and thus be true to its name. When you receive Communion
today, the eucharistic minister will say: "The Body of Christ." May your
"Amen" transform the world by your love for Jesus and His body.

Prayer: "Sweet Sacrament, we Thee adore. O make us love Thee more and
more. O make us love Thee more and more."

Promise: "The man who feeds on My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me,
and I in him." —Jn 6:56

Praise: Praise Jesus, Who poured out His blood for love of us! Alleluia!

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB
eBook edition, and an online donation form at
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp

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Friday, May 23, 2008

PUBLIC CONFESSION - One Bread, One Body, 5/24/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Saturday, May 24, 2008

James 5:13-20, Psalm 141, Mark 10:13-16
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052408.shtml

PUBLIC CONFESSION

"Declare your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may
find healing." —James 5:16

The Lord clearly commands us to declare our sins to each other. He also
commands us not to even mention shameful things (Eph 5:3, 12) and not to
publicize others' sins (see Mt 18:15). However, when we confess certain
sins to others, we have difficulties avoiding giving scandal. For example,
if you would confess publicly the sin of adultery, the people hearing this
would naturally be tempted to speculate on the identity of the person with
whom you were sexually involved. They might be easily able to guess who
your sexual partner was or they might even implicate an innocent person.

How can we obey Jesus' command to publicly confess our sins without
disobeying other commands of Jesus? Paul spoke of forgiving as a
representative of the Church (2 Cor 2:10). By confessing our sins to a
representative of the Church and of the Lord (see Jn 20:23), we can
confess our sins publicly, avoid giving scandal, and receive the special
healing which usually accompanies public confession.

Go to the sacrament of Confession. Obey Jesus. Be forgiven and healed.

Prayer: Father, may I treasure Confession so much that I celebrate this
sacrament monthly or more frequently.

Promise: "People were bringing their little children to Him to have Him
touch them." —Mk 10:13

Praise: James has witnessed publicly of his vasectomy and how the Lord
showed him its sinfulness, restored him through reversal surgery, and
blessed him with more children.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, "The Secret of Confession", or
our tape on audio AV 44-3 or video V-44.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB
eBook edition, and an online donation form at
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp

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Thursday, May 22, 2008

DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE - One Bread, One Body, 5/23/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Friday, May 23, 2008

James 5:9-12, Psalm 103, Mark 10:1-12
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052308.shtml

DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE

"Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery." —Mark
10:11

Jesus' condemnation of divorce is shocking. His disciples questioned Him
about this and so should we (Mk 10:10). Jesus said, "Whoever divorces his
wife (lewd conduct is a separate case) and marries another commits
adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery" (Mt
19:9). "Lewd conduct" is often interpreted to mean adultery. However, this
is probably not the meaning of the passage. A study of the Greek word for
"lewd conduct" and of parallel and related passages shows that "lewd
conduct" probably means an incestuous union, not uncommon among pagans.

Paul mentioned another occasion, after a divorce is initiated by the
unbelieving spouse, when divorce and remarriage is allowed (1 Cor 7:15).
Paul also stressed that the believing spouse should do all in his or her
power to preserve the marriage (1 Cor 7:16). Although these are two
exceptions, Jesus hates divorce (Mal 2:16). However, remarriage without
being granted an annulment by the Church is more of a problem than
divorce. Jesus loves the divorced and will heal, save, and love them.

No matter what your situation, turn to Jesus. He is "close to the
brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit He saves" (Ps 34:19).

Prayer: Father, may divorced people accept Your order in their lives and
receive Your love.

Promise: "You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and have seen what
the Lord, Who is compassionate and merciful, did in the end." —Jas 5:11

Praise: Jane and Thomas celebrated their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary
by publicly renewing their vows.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Marriage" on audio AV 47B-1 or
video V-47B.)

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp

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Your Hands Have Been Anointed to Heal

In the days of Jesus, rabbis observed a myriad of extra rules that were not in Scripture. Their legalistic code focused on what they could and could not touch. These guys invented the original version of the holier-than-thou religion. They stayed away from women, children, dead bodies, lepers, beggars, sinners, blood, shellfish, pigs and, especially, people of other ethnic backgrounds. They didn't want "unclean" gentiles to corrupt them.

The Pharisees, especially, were obsessed with hygiene. They had a rule for everything from how to wash dishes to how to stay ceremonially clean after walking in the streets. That's why they got upset when they saw that Jesus' disciples didn't follow the standard Jewish hand-washing ritual.

They asked Jesus: "'Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat their bread with impure hands?'" You can almost hear their smug, nasal tone. Jesus' reply was blunt. He called His inquisitors hypocrites; then He chastised them for "'teaching as doctrines the precepts of men'" (Mark 7:5-7, NASB).

After Jesus rebuked their hypocrisy He immediately left His sanitary Jewish environment and went north, to the gentile city of Tyre. There He healed a Syrophoenician woman's daughter. (Any other rabbi would have avoided her like the plague.) Then He traveled to the Decapolis region and healed a deaf and dumb villager. Some scholars say this poor guy was a gentile, too.

Jesus broke every religious rule in the Pharisees' hand-washing manual when He performed this miracle. The Bible says He put His fingers in the man's ears, spit on His hands and touched the man's tongue with His own saliva (see Mark 7:33). Eeuuww! Jesus was not concerned about germs or spiritual defilement, and I doubt He used hand-sanitizer after the man was healed.

Jesus was making a point. He didn't come to earth to spend His time washing his hands inside a synagogue. His message was not about what not to eat or who to avoid. He came to touch dirty people. He came to cleanse lepers, heal bleeding women, hold children, eat with tax collectors and forgive prostitutes. He even visited a cemetery so He could cast devils out of a lunatic! That's our Jesus.

Too often we fall under the influence of the "religious sanitation police." Before you know it, we too are sequestered inside our holy walls, compulsively washing our hands and obsessing over who wore what and who went where. Legalism is a tool of the devil, but it masks itself as a Christian virtue. Ultimately it has no power over sin and it eventually causes spiritual sterility.

I believe the American church today must confront the spirit of the Pharisees head-on. Religious systems despise healing, and they certainly don't endorse touching the addicted, the diseased, the demonized or the dying. Many sectors of the church have rejected God's healing power altogether, and they certainly don't encourage Christians to touch the pain of our generation.

They think holiness is about isolation. On the contrary, true holiness invades sickness, sin and shame—and overcomes it.

We are on the verge of a holiness invasion today. My friend Matt Sorger, a young healing evangelist based in New York, has recently seen a surge in miraculous healings in his meetings in the United States. He wrote recently:

"As the weight of His glory has filled entire rooms, His healing grace and presence has been sweeping over the people—healing them right in their seats! We worship until His glory comes and then He does the rest. There is a new realm of corporate healing glory being released. We call out a sickness by the Holy Spirit and it gets healed. It's just that easy. It's not hard in the glory!"

Matt also adds that humility is important as we enter this season of healing. "It is very important to stay humble and pure in heart and to always give the glory and honor to God and not place the focus on ourselves. This will be vital to maintaining the purity and integrity of God's move."

This movement of healing is not about one evangelist or one particular revival phenomenon. God wants a holy breakout. He intends for all believers to lay hands on the sick and to restore the broken. The same Holy Spirit who anointed Jesus to cleanse lepers has empowered us with a healing touch. Please don't sit on your hands during this crucial hour.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

CUT IT OUT! - One Bread, One Body, 5/22/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Thursday, May 22, 2008, St. Rita of Cascia

James 5:1-6, Psalm 49, Mark 9:41-50
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052208.shtml

CUT IT OUT!

"If your hand is your difficulty, cut it off!" —Mark 9:43
"If your foot is your undoing, cut it off!" —Mark 9:45
"If your eye is your downfall, tear it out!" —Mark 9:47

Jesus did not mean for us to literally maim ourselves, but He exaggerated
to drive home the point that we are to resist sin even to the point of
allowing our own blood to be shed (Heb 12:4). Moreover, Jesus may have
been revealing to us something about human nature: in some areas of each
person's life, one must be careful not to overindulge but to abstain. This
is the great insight of the Twelve Steps Programs.

For some, one drink is too many. Maybe you don't have a problem with
drinking, but you can be in trouble if you have a TV, begin to gamble, eat
one candy bar, drink one cup of coffee, go into a store with a credit
card, access the Internet, etc. We will never be free if we don't come out
of the denial that certain things in our lives must be completely cut off.
The Lord could grace us to control our use of these things, but it seems
that instead He has decided to call us to abstain in certain areas.

Know your calls to abstain, cut out what God wants out, and be free. It's
better to abstain than to remain a slave. It's better to abstain than to
lose your soul (Mt 5:29).

Prayer: Jesus, You alone can free me (Jn 8:36). I accept You as Lord and
Liberator.

Promise: "The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of
hosts." —Jas 5:4

Praise: St. Rita, in deference to her parents, did not become a nun but
married a man who caused her nothing but grief and sorrow. St. Rita became
a widow at age thirty, and eventually God enabled her to achieve her goal
of becoming a religious sister.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, "TV Addiction"," "or our tape
on audio AV 65-1 or video V-65.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB
eBook edition, and an online donation form at
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp

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Tuesday, May 20, 2008

THE REAL ME - One Bread, One Body, 5/21/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Wednesday, May 21, 2008

James 4:13-17, Psalm 49, Mark 9:38-40
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052108.shtml

THE REAL ME

"All you can do is make arrogant and pretentious claims." —James 4:16

We fall into sin; the devil constantly accuses us (Rv 12:10), and we start
to hate ourselves. We often express this self-hatred in a surprising way:
by being proud. What do people who hate themselves have to be proud of! It
doesn't make sense, but we do it anyway. We must face the reality of our
weak and fallen human nature. Without Jesus, we can do nothing (Jn 15:5).
We "are a vapor that appears briefly and vanishes" (Jas 4:14). We have no
idea what kind of life will be ours tomorrow (Jas 4:14). We are not in
control or in charge. We desperately need a Savior; we need Jesus.

At the same time, we are sons and daughters of God the Father (1 Jn 3:1).
We are members of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13) and temples of the Holy
Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). We are royal, priestly, and holy (1 Pt 2:9). We are
so precious to the Father that He sent His Son to die on the cross for us.
The least born into the Father's kingdom is greater than the greatest
people before Christ (Mt 11:11). We can even do greater by far than Jesus
did (Jn 14:12).

Of ourselves, we are nothing. In Christ, we are sharers of the divine
nature (2 Pt 1:4). When we realize our nothingness without Christ and our
glory in Him, we will love ourselves and not be proud.

Prayer: Father, may I know and love myself because I love You with all my
heart.

Promise: "Yet in no way can a man redeem himself, or pay his own ransom to
God; too high is the price to redeem one's life; he would never have
enough." —Ps 49:8-9

Praise: When Joseph hit bottom he finally realized he needed a Savior. He
gave his life to Jesus, and has been on an upward path ever since.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Pride and Faith" on audio AV 64-1
or video V-64.)

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Monday, May 19, 2008

INNER PEACE OR WAR? - One Bread, One Body, 5/20/2008

The May issue of My People Newspaper is now online. Articles include:

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Tuesday, May 20, 2008, St. Bernardine of Siena

James 4:1-10, Psalm 55, Mark 9:30-37
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052008.shtml

INNER PEACE OR WAR?

"Where do the conflicts and disputes among you originate?" —James 4:1

Many of us have declared war on ourselves. "Is it not your inner cravings
that make war within your members?" (Jas 4:1) We have this inner conflict
because we are not getting what we want. Sometimes what we want is not
what God wants and therefore not what we truly need. In this case, we must
repent of wrong desires and pray with Jesus: "Not my will, but Yours be
done" (see Mt 26:39).

Sometimes what we want is God's will, but we do not obtain it because we
do not ask (Jas 4:2). Therefore, we must present our "needs to God in
every form of prayer and in petitions full of gratitude" (Phil 4:6). The
way to have peace inside instead of war is to repent and petition God.
Inner peace is not dependent on circumstances beyond our control. The
peace that Jesus gives is not like the world's "peace," and it cannot be
taken away by the world (Jn 14:27; 16:22). No one can make us lose our
peace.

Peace is our lasting inheritance (Jn 14:27), so any inner conflict is our
opportunity to repent and/or petition God. Inner peace is available to us
always and under any circumstances. If you have any inner conflict, first
repent and go to Confession. This will settle most conflicts. If the
conflict persists, persevere in asking and you shall receive peace (see Mt
7:7).

Prayer: Father, give me peace in the midst of the storm.

Promise: "If anyone wishes to rank first, he must remain the last one of
all and the servant of all." —Mk 9:35

Praise: St. Bernardine gave so much of himself that he would often preach
for three or four hours and sometimes additional sermons as well. His goal
was that "the shining splendor of [Jesus'] name causes His word to be
proclaimed and heard."

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Jesus and Peace" on audio AV 42-1
or video V-42.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB
eBook edition, and an online donation form at
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp

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