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

Thursday, July 31, 2008

PROPHECY AND THE HEART OF GOD - One Bread, One Body, 8/1/2008

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Friday, August 1, 2008, St. Alphonsus Liguori

Jeremiah 26:1-9, Psalm 69:5, 8-10, 14, Matthew 13:54-58
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/080108.shtml

PROPHECY AND THE HEART OF GOD

"...My servants the prophets, whom I send you constantly though you do not
obey them..." —Jeremiah 26:5

The Lord commands us to set our hearts on the spiritual gift of prophecy
"above all" (1 Cor 14:1). Here are some scriptural observations upon which
to meditate as we seek prophecy:
* "Indeed, the Lord God does nothing without revealing His plan to His
servants, the prophets" (Am 3:7).
* God relentlessly sends His prophets to warn His people, just in case
they might repent (Jer 26:5; Jon 4:11).
* Prophecy without love gains nothing (1 Cor 13:2).
* "No prophet is without honor except in his native place, indeed in
his own house" (Mt 13:57).
* Prophets must be obedient, saying exactly what God commands, omitting
nothing (Jer 26:2).
* Prophecy is a lifestyle. Isaiah, Ezekiel, Elijah, Jeremiah, Moses,
Hosea, and other prophets all had to live radical lives of sacrificial
obedience in order to be God's prophets.
* Prophets must not be discouraged or surprised at rejection.
* Because prophecy is God's message spoken at the perfect time, it has
a great impact. All of Nineveh repented at the unwilling prophecy of Jonah
(Jon 3:5ff).
* "Without prophecy the people become demoralized" (Prv 29:18). Thus
the prophets, along with the apostles, form the foundation of the Church
(Eph 2:20).

At Baptism, you were baptized into Jesus' prophetic ministry (Catechism,
1268, 783). Seek prophecy and build up the Church (1 Cor 14:4).

Prayer: Jesus, the Prophet (Lk 7:16), teach me "what to say and how to
speak" (Jn 12:49). Give me Your heart for prophecy.

Promise: "They found Him altogether too much." —Mt 13:57

Praise: St. Alphonsus founded a religious order to minister the saving
love of Jesus to "the most abandoned of souls."

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (For
related teaching, order our leaflet, "Seek Prophecy".)

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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
August 1, 2008 through September 30, 2008
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, February 25, 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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Loving Your Child

Source: Charles F. Stanley

As parents, we want our children to love us, spend time with us, talk with
us, and stay close to us for as long as we live. More importantly, we would
like them to want to do those things. But if we don't love them
unconditionally now, there's no guarantee they will remain nearby in the
future.

"But aren't I responsible to help them develop to their fullest potential?"
you might ask. "Are there not times when I need to push a little?"

Absolutely! In fact, motivating your children to excellence and improvement
is part of expressing unconditional love and acceptance to them. To allow
children simply to get by in life is a form of neglect.

If you want to motivate your children without expressing an attitude of
conditional acceptance, two things must be true. First, all your prodding
and exhortation must be preceded by demonstrations of unconditional love for
them. There must be memorials, so to speak, to their worthiness in your
eyes. By "memorials," I mean events or conversations that have clearly
expressed your love.

Memorials such as these are beneficial because they give your children
something to recall for reassurance when you pressure them to perform.
Sometimes you will expect too much from your children, and they will fail.
Without reminders of your unconditional acceptance, children might fear your
disappointment and rejection.

Memorials can also take the form of a gift or even the bestowal of certain
privileges. In presenting the gift, stress several times that it is not
connected with any particular occasion or action on their part; you are
giving simply because you love them.

Second, to properly motivate your child, you must measure him by his own
ability, not somebody else's. Comparing one child's performance to that of
another eventually destroys self-esteem, expressions of individuality, and
creativity.

The real key here is to view each of your children as a unique individual.
Every young person is gifted in some particular way. Your goal as a parent
is to recognize that area of strength and emphasize it as your child
develops, for within these strengths is his or her greatest potential for
excellence. By cultivating these strengths, you will also do great things
for your child's self-esteem.

When I was growing up, I didn't do so well in high school. Everything turned
out okay, but I didn't have a good start. So I never told my kids that I
expected them to make As or Bs or Cs while they were in school. I didn't
tell them they had to make the baseball team or be the most popular.
Instead, my question to them was, "Did you do your best?" For our daughter,
an A was her best in geometry. For our son, his best was a C.

One good way to find out whether or not your children feel unconditional
acceptance is simply to ask them, "What do you think it would take for you
to make Mom and Dad as proud of you as we could possibly be?"

Evaluate the answer carefully. Is it task-oriented? Do they feel they must
do all their chores every day or be straight-A students? Do they feel
obligated to make a team or squad, or perform some other task to win your
approval?

Perhaps the answer is more character-related. Do your children believe that
doing their best at every task they undertake is what would please you? Do
they know you would be proud of them for obeying God, regardless of the
cost?

Their reply will give you insight into what you've communicated, regardless
of what you have said. The value system you establish will serve as a basis
upon which they accept themselves and others.

Simply telling your children that you accept them unconditionally is not
enough. The apostle John wrote, "Little children, let us not love with word
or with tongue, but in deed and truth" (1 John 3:18). Unconditional love and
acceptance are communicated more clearly by what we do and how we do it than
simply by what we say.

Our children must have a backlog of memories to sustain their belief that we
truly love them, no matter what. Such love tells our sons and daughters that
we accept them for who they are-and despite what they do. What a sense of
security and acceptance this gives them!

Do you want to encourage your kids to succeed? You don't need to push
expectations on them. If we direct their focus to the Lord, then they will
want to be obedient and do their best for Him.

Never take for granted the impact that you have on their lives. Remember,
the way you act toward your kids today greatly influences the way they will
respond to you tomorrow.

Adapted from "How to Keep Your Kids on Your Team," by Charles F. Stanley
(1986).

Useful link: www.intouch.org

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

THE FUNNIES - One Bread, One Body, 7/31/2008

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Thursday, July 31, 2008, St. Ignatius of Loyola

Jeremiah 18:1-6, Psalm 146, Matthew 13:47-53
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/073108.shtml

THE FUNNIES

"The reign of God is also like a dragnet." —Matthew 13:47

Some years ago, it was popular to ask the question: "Are we having fun
yet?" Those living for God's kingdom would respond: "No, I'm not having
fun and I don't expect to." This is not to say that kingdom-living is a
"drag," although it is like a dragnet. Being in a dragnet containing old
shoes, tires, tin cans, seaweed, or whatever garbage they had in Biblical
times is not a pleasant trip (see Mt 13:48). Therefore, if you're
struggling in your Christian life, that's to be expected. "It comes with
the territory."

To use the examples of Isaiah (see Is 64:7) and Jeremiah (see Jer 18:6),
we are like clay which is being pounded, drenched, swirled, cut, molded,
and fired. This is not something we feel like doing every day.
Kingdom-living does not come under the category of fun. It's beyond that.
Kingdom-living is better than fun; it is "inexpressible joy" (1 Pt 1:8).
Kingdom-joy is not the absence of suffering, but is proportionate to the
sufferings we endure for Jesus (1 Pt 4:13).

Human beings eventually get sick of having fun. Having fun becomes a drag.
Look at some of our young people near the end of summer vacation. We
eventually want more than fun, diversion, and trivialities. Deep down, we
want life to the full (Jn 10:10). We want to seek first God's kingdom (Mt
6:33), even if it is like a dragnet. The question is not: "Are you having
fun yet?" but "Are you living in the kingdom yet?"

Prayer: Father, may Your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven (see Mt
6:10).

Promise: "Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in My
hand." —Jer 18:6

Praise: In his Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius marveled at God's
bountiful love expressed in creation, praying "You made all this for me,
Lord? All this for me?"

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "The Truth Will Set You Free".)

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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

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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, July 29, 2008

WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED - One Bread, One Body, 7/30/2008

Our Daily Bread radio program celebrated its 25th anniversary of being on
the air back on May 3. Why not give it a listen if you haven't before.
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Wednesday, July 30, 2008, St. Peter Chrysologus

Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21, Psalm 59, Matthew 13:44-46
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/073008.shtml

WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED

"You shall be My mouthpiece." —Jeremiah 15:19

Many of us can say with Jeremiah: "When I found Your words, I devoured
them; they became my joy and the happiness of my heart" (Jer 15:16). We
have felt our hearts burning when the Bible was proclaimed and explained
to us (see Lk 24:32).

After receiving God's word, we began to share it with others. Although a
few people listened to what we shared, many seemed to ignore us and some
were even hostile toward us. We understood what Jesus meant when He said:
"I gave them Your word, and the world has hated them for it" (Jn 17:14).

After such an unfavorable reaction to our sharing of the word, we feel
like quitting. The Lord understands our sufferings better than does anyone
else. He will give us the grace to forgive those who have hurt us and will
heal our wounds. However, He won't let us quit. Instead, Jesus will remind
us "to stir into flame the gift of God" (2 Tm 1:6). We will be "filled
with the Holy Spirit" and continue "to speak God's word with confidence"
(Acts 4:31).

Therefore, "in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, Who is coming to
judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingly power,
I charge you to preach the word, to stay with this task" (2 Tm 4:1-2).

Prayer: Father, may I proclaim Your word under the worst conditions.

Promise: "The reign of God is like a buried treasure which a man found in
a field. He hid it again, and rejoicing at his find went and sold all he
had and bought that field." —Mt 13:44

Praise: St. Peter Chrysologus proclaimed God's word against paganism,
growing abuses, and unholiness.

(Preach the word to others. For encouragement, order our series on
"Biblical Counseling" on audio AV 13A-1, AV 13A-3, AV 13B-1 or video
starting with V-13A.)

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Monday, July 28, 2008

HOSPITALITY PLUS - One Bread, One Body, 7/29/2008

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Tuesday, July 29, 2008, St. Martha

Jeremiah 14:17-22, Psalm 79, John 11:19-27, or Luke 10:38-42
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072908.shtml

HOSPITALITY PLUS

"The Lord in reply said to her: 'Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset
about many things; one thing only is required. Mary has chosen the better
portion and she shall not be deprived of it.' " —Luke 10:41-42

In Luke's Gospel, loving God with all our hearts and our neighbor as
ourselves is often a matter of offering hospitality. That's what the Good
Samaritan did for the man who fell prey to robbers (Lk 10:34-35).
Hospitality was how Martha showed her love to Jesus (Lk 10:38). Luke
teaches that hospitality is one of the most important expressions of love.

After extolling the merits of hospitality, Luke hits us with the
revelation that there is something even better. The portion better than
hospitality is sitting at the Lord's feet and listening to His words (Lk
10:39). Listening to Jesus' words is the ultimate, the key to the meaning
of life, the most awesome privilege possible for human beings.

Do you listen to the Lord throughout the day? Do you set a time each day
when you focus on listening to the Lord? Are you overjoyed to hear Jesus'
voice? (Jn 3:29) "By waiting and by calm you shall be saved, in quiet and
in trust your strength lies" (Is 30:15). Listen to the still, small voice
of God (1 Kgs 19:12). Jesus is God's beloved Son. "Listen to Him" (Mk
9:7).

Prayer: Father, Your words are "spirit and life" (Jn 6:63). May I listen
accordingly.

Promise: "I am the Resurrection and the Life: whoever believes in Me,
though he should die, will come to life; and whoever is alive and believes
in Me will never die." —Jn 11:25-26

Praise: St. Martha exercised both her gift of hospitality and her ability
to listen and trust in her Lord.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Hearing God" or our tape on
audio AV 45-1 or video V-45.)

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Sunday, July 27, 2008

PARABLES AND POPES - One Bread, One Body, 7/28/2008

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Monday, July 28, 2008

Jeremiah 13:1-11, Deuteronomy 32:18-21, Matthew 13:31-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072808.shtml

PARABLES AND POPES

"All these lessons Jesus taught the crowds in the form of
parables." —Matthew 13:34

Jesus spoke to them in parables only, "to fulfill what had been said
through the prophet: 'I will open my mouth in parables, I will announce
what has lain hidden since the creation of the world' " (Mt 13:34-35).
Speaking in parables was Jesus' primary way of teaching the crowds. In
this way, He announced things never before revealed. Therefore, we must
pay attention to Jesus' parables.

However, the Lord warns us: "The time will come when people will not
tolerate sound doctrine, but, following their own desires, will surround
themselves with teachers who tickle their ears. They will stop listening
to the truth and will wander off to fables" (2 Tm 4:3-4). Fables are also
stories and sometimes not much different from parables. Fables can
sometimes conceal the truth and deny sound doctrine. Through fables we can
refuse to listen to the truth.

How can we tell the difference between a true parable and a false fable?
It is only by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of truth will guide us to all
truth (Jn 16:13). How can we know if we are correctly discerning the
Spirit? We can know by the Church, especially by the Pope and the
magisterium. Before the end of the world and Jesus' final coming, there
will come a mass apostasy (2 Thes 2:3), and "the love of most will grow
cold" (Mt 24:12). We thank God for giving us the Pope as a sure help in
discerning the Spirit.

Prayer: Father, thank You for guarding me from apostasy by putting me
under the authority of the Church.

Promise: "...My people, My renown, My praise, My beauty." —Jer 13:11

Praise: Reading the papal encyclicals helps build Martin's faith as he
sees how the Gospel is applied to the modern world.

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eNewletter 17th Sunday in ordinary time

I pray that you all will forgive me as I attempt to do this
eNewsletter on a borrowed laptop computer in a hotel room
250 miles away from my home. I hope it appears as usual.

My brothers and sisters in Christ. I have a question for you.
Have you shared this eNewsletter with anyone lately?
Pray on it and pass the WORD.

God Bess you and all you care for. The editor

July 27th, 17th Sunday in ordinary time

This week, Your church gives us another example of how
we should learn from what happened to others.

St. Martha was a great hostess who was really concerned
for the comfort of those around her, yet her sister Mary was
more concerned to just sit at Your feet and listen to You.

When Martha complained to You, You said Mary had chosen
the better part.

Let us see in that You must come first in all of our actions.

Yes it is necessary to serve others, but if we aren't in line
with You, our service can be just an action of life and not
of love.

Let us willingly serve others but first be fed by Your word and
Your Body and Blood. Amen and Amen

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
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For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the home
page of Presentation Ministries? Please take a look.
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday FEELING INADEQUATE?
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=7/27/2008

"I am a mere youth, not knowing at all how to act." —1 Kings 3:7

Do you feel inadequate? Maybe you don't have the slightest
idea how you should act in a certain situation or in most
situations. Like Solomon, ask the Lord for an understanding
heart (1 Kgs 3:9). The Lord will make you more than adequate.

Some of you feel it's too late. Your life is already in shambles.
You've been abused, broken, and shattered. However, the Lord
promises to make "all things work together for the good of
those who love" Him (Rm 8:28). Give your brokenness to Jesus,
and He will use it as raw material for a miracle. In Him, you can
do all things (see Phil 4:13).

You may feel that your resources, education, energy, etc.
are inadequate. Nevertheless, the Lord tells you that you can
purchase the most precious treasure of all, that is, the
kingdom of God. He has made it affordable for you. God's
kingdom does not cost a certain amount but a certain
percentage: 100% (Mt 13:44-46). You can purchase it but
can't purchase anything else if you do.

You don't have to feel inadequate. In Christ, you have
understanding, miracles, strength (Phil 4:13), hope (Col 1:27),
energy (Col 1:29), joy (Jn 15:11), peace (Jn 16:33). In Christ,
you have God's kingdom. You are more than adequate.

Monday PARABLES AND POPES
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=7/28/2008

"All these lessons Jesus taught the crowds in the form of
parables." —Matthew 13:34

Tuesday HOSPITALITY PLUS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=7/29/2008

"The Lord in reply said to her: 'Martha, Martha, you are anxious
and upset about many things; one thing only is required. Mary
has chosen the better portion and she shall not be deprived of it.'
" —Luke 10:41-42

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!
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Brochures

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

This Week's Featured Brochures

· Conversion Conversations
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· Do You Renounce Satan?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/RenounceSatan.asp

· 14 Questions on Forgiveness
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/14Quest.asp

14 Questions on Forgiveness

1) What is forgiveness? Forgiveness is our decision to
accept God's grace to let go of the hurt due to sins
committed against us and to express this by acts of mercy
and love toward the offender (see Lk 15:20-24).
"Forgiveness is the restoration of freedom to oneself. It is
the key held in our own hand to our prison cell" (Pope John Paul II).

2) How often must I forgive? 70 x 7, that is, indefinitely,
always (see Mt 18:22).

3) Are there any sins committed against me which I don't
have to forgive? No. The Lord calls us to forgive all sins —
even rape, murder, abuse, adultery, etc. We never have
the .............................

· Gambling - Lottery, Raffles, Bingo
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· Healing the Family Tree
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PM Internet Prayer Requests
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp

almighty father, we praise you. forgive us our sins. thank you
for the blessings you always pour upon us. at this moment
we need your blessings, grant us successful examinations
and positive final decisions in our immigration applications
soon. we pray for those that will conduct the exam and
evaluation. that they would give good considerations. we
pray for our time, our health. keep us away from all evil and
harm. grant that the favors we ask be bestowed upon us
according to HIS perfect will. bless us that we shall be of
blessings to others too. all of these we ask in Jesus name, amen.
(Anonymous, 7/26/2008 7:59:08 PM)

Dear God I am going through a difficult time in my life. My
4 kids depend so much on my physical, mental and
psychological well-being. I pray that the lawsuit situation I
am in will be resolved successfully in my favor. You know
that I was never a party to any transaction between the
plaintiff and the people who really owe him the money.
Please help me keep my house, because the plaintiff wants
me to sell the house to pay off the money I do not owe him.
There is a hearing on August 15, 2008. I pray that the
meeting will turn out well, in my favor. I have asked for your
guidance in the past and You have granted my petitions, as
well. This, I ask, thru God the Father, Jesus Christ and Mama
Amen
(A.S., Fairfax Station, Virginia, United States, 7/26/2008 7:31:03 PM)

My son, Chris 24 years old was killed on June 30th. PLease
pray for my family and myself to have relief. I know he is in a
better place with both of my parents, but i need prayers to
keep moving forward. He was my only child and i miss him
so much. I am not sure how to keep going...
(T.C., Slidell, La., United States, 7/26/2008 6:53:53 PM)

Donna really NEEDS to sell her house!!
(D., 7/26/2008 5:07:21 PM)

Pray for Pauline-having trouble breathing-exposed to asbestos
for 10 years in the workplace
(D., 7/26/2008 3:57:43 PM)

Pls pray for healing for my 35 yr. old couisn Drew who has
ALS (Lou Gherig's disease). Pls also pray for me for healing
from depression. Thank you and God bless you all!
(S., Stamford, CT, United States, 7/26/2008 12:29:50 PM)

I want you to pray for me , I have a serious heart problem
and organs problems with pains all over my body now for a
long time, please join me pray for my healing, YOU CAN
ALSO SEND A MIRACLE CLOTH TO ME AND ANOINTING
OIL MY postal address : 25 bp 1541 Abidjan 25 Ivory Coast ,
Africa
GIVE THIS PRAYER REQUEST TO YOUR CHURCH OR
PRAYER GROUP TO JOIN HANDS WITH ME FOR MY
PERFECT HEALING. I NEED YOU NOW, HELP ME.
(L.S., ABIDJAN, AB, Cote d'Ivoire, 7/26/2008 6:53:15 AM)

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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
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PM's Small Christian Community Network

Learn about the Communities in our Network
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Small Christian Community Resources Introduction to Small
Christian Community
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"Unless the Lord Build the House..." — Psalm 127:
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Building Small Christian Communities (Team Manual)
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Pope Benedict XVI,

Shepherd of Truth

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

FREEDOM "GENUINE FREEDOM

" Let us pray fervently that the Church in America will
be renewed in that same Spirit, and sustained in her
mission of proclaiming the Gospel to a world that longs
for genuine freedom, authentic happiness and the
fulfillment of its deepest aspirations!

"NEW LIFE AND FREEDOM

" Let us trust in the Spirit's power to inspire conversion,
to heal every wound, to overcome every division and to
inspire new life and freedom. How much we need these
gifts! And how close at hand they are, particularly in the
sacrament of Penance! "

THE MYSTERY OF LOVE

" The Gospel teaches us that true freedom, the freedom
of the children of God, is found only in the self-surrender
which is part of the mystery of love.

(Sources: Homily, Washington Nationals Stadium, 4/17/08;
Homily, Yankee Stadium, 4/ 20/08)
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2008-06.asp?navlink=latest
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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
________________________________________________

2008 RETREATS

Sep 2 - Nov 18 How to Teach the Bible in the Power of the
Holy Spirit Faith comes through hearing the Word of God.
Deepen your personal commitment to Jesus Christ by
discipling others to a personal relationship with Jesus and
experience the great joy of working for the Lord.
http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreatSchedule.asp
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Saturday, July 26, 2008

FEELING INADEQUATE? - One Bread, One Body, 7/27/2008

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Sunday, July 27, 2008, 17th Sunday Ordinary Time

1 Kings 3:5, 7-12, Romans 8:28-30, Psalm 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-130,
Matthew 13:44-52
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072708.shtml

FEELING INADEQUATE?

"I am a mere youth, not knowing at all how to act." —1 Kings 3:7

Do you feel inadequate? Maybe you don't have the slightest idea how you
should act in a certain situation or in most situations. Like Solomon, ask
the Lord for an understanding heart (1 Kgs 3:9). The Lord will make you
more than adequate.

Some of you feel it's too late. Your life is already in shambles. You've
been abused, broken, and shattered. However, the Lord promises to make
"all things work together for the good of those who love" Him (Rm 8:28).
Give your brokenness to Jesus, and He will use it as raw material for a
miracle. In Him, you can do all things (see Phil 4:13).

You may feel that your resources, education, energy, etc. are inadequate.
Nevertheless, the Lord tells you that you can purchase the most precious
treasure of all, that is, the kingdom of God. He has made it affordable
for you. God's kingdom does not cost a certain amount but a certain
percentage: 100% (Mt 13:44-46). You can purchase it but can't purchase
anything else if you do.

You don't have to feel inadequate. In Christ, you have understanding,
miracles, strength (Phil 4:13), hope (Col 1:27), energy (Col 1:29), joy
(Jn 15:11), peace (Jn 16:33). In Christ, you have God's kingdom. You are
more than adequate.

Prayer: Father, may I rejoice in my exalted position as Your child.

Promise: "The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant's search for fine
pearls. When he found one really valuable pearl, he went back and put up
for sale all that he had and bought it." —Mt 13:45-46

Praise: Praise Jesus, "the Resurrection and the Life" (Jn 11:25), Whose
name is exalted above the heavens!

(For a related teaching, order our tape on "Hope" on audio AV 70-1 or
video V-70.)

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Friday, July 25, 2008

A GOLDEN FINISH - One Bread, One Body, 7/26/2008

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Saturday, July 26, 2008, Sts. Joachim & Ann

Sirach 44:1, 10-15, Psalm 132, Matthew 13:16-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072608.shtml

A GOLDEN FINISH

"Their wealth remains in their families, their heritage with their
descendants." —Sirach 44:11

Many people work hard during their adult lives, with the goal of enjoying
a relaxing, well-deserved retirement. It's the time to enjoy one's
grandchildren, and catch up on travel, hobbies, and leisure that were
missed out on during many years of sacrifice.

However, the "golden years" are not really the time to let up; instead,
these years are the time to "seal in" the heritage that has been sown. All
too often, it takes only one generation for a society to lose its
collective faith. The decades of solid groundwork that parents have laid
may be lost in the relaxation of the golden years of retirement. Jesus may
be issuing a call to grandparents when He says: "Listen to what I say:
Open your eyes and see! The fields are shining for harvest!" (Jn 4:35)

Kings Hezekiah and Solomon both had tremendous starts in reforming their
nation and turning their people to the Lord (2 Kgs 18:2ff; 1 Kgs 3:6ff).
Yet their records are tarnished because they slacked off in later years.
The end result of both their reigns was that the nation was in worse shape
when they died than it was before they started (2 Kgs 20:21ff; 1 Kgs
11:43ff).

Jesus warned us about "laying the foundation and then not being able to
complete the work" (Lk 14:29). Then our legacy is merely a half-built
tower, an extended family which didn't have the faith that endured. Let us
follow the example of Sts. Joachim and Ann, grandparents of Jesus, and
build a heritage that will endure for the glory of God.

Prayer: Lord, may I finish "the work You gave me to do" (Jn 17:4).

Promise: "I assure you, many a prophet and many a saint longed to see what
you see but did not see it, to hear what you hear but did not hear
it." —Mt 13:17

Praise: St. Ann and her daughter, Mary, were the only two women in history
to carry immaculately conceived children in their wombs.

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

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Thursday, July 24, 2008

THE HEAD OF THE CLASS - One Bread, One Body, 7/25/2008

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Friday, July 25, 2008, St. James

2 Corinthians 4:7-15, Psalm 126, Matthew 20:20-28
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072508.shtml

THE HEAD OF THE CLASS

"We believe and so we speak, knowing that He Who raised up the Lord Jesus
will raise us up along with Jesus." —2 Corinthians 4:13-14

St. James must have been one powerful apostle! When "King Herod started to
harass" the Church, his first move was to cut off James' head (Acts 12:1,
2). "This pleased certain of the Jews" (Acts 12:3). Only after James was
killed did Herod turn his attention to arresting Peter (Acts 12:3). James,
who was the first apostle to die for love of Jesus, was obviously one
giant headache for Herod and the Jews. James had the courage and the faith
to speak out in the name of Jesus, knowing that he would share in the
resurrection of Jesus (2 Cor 4:13-14).

Earlier, James was a headache for the other apostles (Mt 20:24). He sought
to be elevated above them. Jesus patiently explained to James and the
others that the way to aspire to greatness is to humbly descend into
service (Mt 20:26-27). James eventually took Jesus' admonition to heart.
After Pentecost, James did not try to preserve his own life. He was
constantly teaching the people about the good news of Jesus the Messiah
(Acts 5:42), working signs and wonders among the people (Acts 5:12). With
great faith, James gave his own life for love of God and His people (Mt
20:28). Like James, may our lives be so powerful in Jesus that we are a
headache to those who oppose Jesus and His kingdom.

Prayer: Father, may I be fearless in the Holy Spirit as St. James was.

Promise: "This treasure we possess in earthen vessels, to make it clear
that its surpassing power comes from God and not from us." —2 Cor 4:7

Praise: St. James was such a powerful evangelist that his enemies were
"pleased" to see him beheaded (Acts 12:3).

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

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A Trophy of Grace

Source: Joyce Meyer

Did you know that God has a trophy cabinet full of trophies He's earned for
all the things He excels in? He has trophies for Restoration, Healing, and
Deliverance, for Forgiveness, Love, and Hope. But in my mind, the center of
God's trophy case is saved and set apart for those trophies He treasures
most of all.His Grace trophies.

One time, as I was at home praying, the Lord said to me, "You are my
trophy." Since the time I was saved, I've always felt loved and treasured
by Him but I didn't really understand what He meant by my being His trophy
until I read 2 Corinthians 2:14. But thanks be to God, Who in Christ always
leads us in triumph [as trophies of Christ's victory] and through us spreads
and makes evident the fragrance of the knowledge of God everywhere (The
Amplified Bible).

When I read that verse, His words began to make sense to me and I was
overwhelmed. As a result of the abuse and dysfunction of my childhood, I
never felt like I was very special. I felt used, neglected, violated and
thrown aside. But because of the great things God has done in my life,
because of the magnificent grace He's shown me, I know I'm not unwanted or
discarded. I mean something to Him. I have actually become a trophy of grace
in His beautiful cabinet.

When God looks at me He is reminded of His touch of grace in my life. He has
saved me from so much. My life is a testimony of His wonderful grace and
that makes me feel more special than you can imagine.

When you make the decision to believe in God-to have faith that God will do
what He says He will do, you can find peace, healing, love and hope like you've
never known possible. He is capable of so much more than you can even dream
of! You can believe and put your trust in Him.

In the Bible, 1 John 4:17 says, In this [union and communion with Him] love
is brought to completion and attains perfection with us, that we may have
confidence for the day of judgment [with assurance and boldness to face
Him], because as He is, so are we in this world (The Amplified Bible).

That verse tells us that we can have confidence in Him because as He is, so
are we in this world. I wonder if He's afraid or worried or upset or
disturbed right now? No way! God is victorious and peaceful and joyful and
in complete control. First John 4:17 says we can be that way too when we put
our confidence and trust in Him.

What about you? Have you come to the place where you can trust Him
completely with your life? Can you let go of the things you're holding on to
and release that control to Him? If you haven't made Jesus your Savior, He's
waiting. He wants to show you all He can do on your behalf.

If you have already invited Jesus Christ to be your Savior, you're found in
Him. You know all the miraculous things He has done in your life and you're
in His cabinet of trophies! Your life, like mine, is a testament to His
greatness and His grace. When He looks at you, God is reminded of the mighty
works He's done on your behalf. Be encouraged!

Useful link: www.joycemeyer.org

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

SOW AND TELL - One Bread, One Body, 7/24/2008

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Thursday, July 24, 2008, St. Sharbel Makhluf

Jeremiah 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13, Psalm 36, Matthew 13:10-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072408.shtml

SOW AND TELL

"Isaiah's prophecy is fulfilled in them which says: 'Listen as you will,
you shall not understand, look intently as you will, you shall not see.
Sluggish indeed is this people's heart. They have scarcely heard with
their ears, they have firmly closed their eyes; otherwise they might see
with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their
hearts, and turn back to Me, and I should heal them.' " —Matthew 13:14-15

The above passage is a Scripture quote from Isaiah 6:9-10. Isaiah had seen
a vision of God, was purified, and accepted God's call to be His prophet
(Is 6:1-8). Upon saying his 'Yes' to God, the Lord spoke the above words
to Isaiah. In essence, God told Isaiah that by faithfully prophesying an
understandable message, it would be as if Isaiah was causing obstinacy
rather than repentance. Isaiah 6:9-10 is quoted no less than five times in
the New Testament (Mt 13:14-15; Mk 4:12; Lk 8:10; Jn 12:40; Acts
28:26-27), making it one of the most quoted Old Testament passages.

Jesus is reminding us that we must be faithful to God's calling to spread
His word, regardless of the results. We must go out and sow, no matter
what (Mt 13:4). If people don't receive God's word, why should we be
surprised? The New Testament has prepared us five times for this
rejection. Our response is to be that of Jesus: we must, like a good
teacher, attempt to find a way to reach our hearers on their level, using
parables (Mt 13:10), stories, discourses, explanations, etc. In so doing,
some will repent, turn back to Jesus, and be healed (Mt 13:15).

Prayer: Jesus, make me an ever more faithful and effective Scripture
teacher.

Promise: "For with You is the fountain of life, and in Your light we see
light." —Ps 36:10

Praise: St. Sharbel Makhluf was a Lebanese hermit who became an exemplary
Christian to the world. Devoted to Jesus' life of gospel poverty, he never
touched money and ate only one meal of vegetables daily.

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

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Tuesday, July 22, 2008

THE NEW GENERATION - One Bread, One Body, 7/23/2008

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Wednesday, July 23, 2008, St. Bridget of Sweden

Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10, Psalm 71, Matthew 13:1-9
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072308.shtml

THE NEW GENERATION

"The Lord answered me, Say not, 'I am too young.' " —Jeremiah 1:7

Some of today's prophets are repeating the prophecy of Pentecost: "I will
pour out a portion of My Spirit on all mankind: Your sons and daughters
shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions" (Acts 2:17; Jl 3:1ff).
They claim that the Lord is raising up young people in a special way to
renew the face of the earth, empowering new Jeremiahs "to root up and to
tear down, to destroy and to demolish, to build and to plant" (Jer 1:10).

As young as these Jeremiahs are, they are not too young by God's
standards. He says: "To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I
command you, you shall speak" (Jer 1:7). We must tell our young people:
"Let no one look down on you because of your youth, but be a continuing
example of love, faith, and purity to believers" (1 Tm 4:12).

Satan may have done more to destroy this generation of young people than
any generation in history. He is so afraid of what the Lord can do through
this new generation that he has arranged for one-third of them to be
killed even before their birth. Those who make it to birth Satan has tried
to abuse, brainwash, debilitate, and enslave through dysfunctional
families, secular humanism, substance abuse, and sexual promiscuity. The
survivors of the survivors Satan has tried to keep from knowing God's love
and believing in Him. However, some young people have survived Satan's
onslaught. If they give their lives totally to Jesus, they will be used to
renew the face of the earth (see Ps 104:30).

Prayer: Father, may our young people see what's happening.

Promise: "Part of it, finally, landed on good soil and yielded grain a
hundred- or sixty- or thirtyfold. Let everyone heed what he hears!" —Mt
13:8-9

Praise: St. Bridget was blessed to mother eight natural children, one of
whom was a canonized saint, as well as countless spiritual children.

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Monday, July 21, 2008

THE ENERGIZER - One Bread, One Body, 7/22/2008

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Tuesday, July 22, 2008, St. Mary Magdalene

Song of Songs 3:1-4 or, 2 Corinthians 5:14-17, Psalm 63, John 20:1-2,
11-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072208.shtml

THE ENERGIZER

"She ran." —John 20:2

Mary Magdalene had energy to burn. She came to Jesus' tomb "early in the
morning on the first day of the week, while it was still dark" (Jn 20:1).
When she saw that the stone had been moved away, she ran off to tell Simon
Peter and the other disciple (Jn 20:2). Then she ran back to the tomb and
stood there weeping (Jn 20:11). Next, she volunteered to single-handedly
carry off Jesus' body, if only she was told where it was (Jn 20:15). After
recognizing the risen Jesus, she made another run for it to tell the
disciples: "I have seen the Lord!" (Jn 20:18)

What was the source of Mary Magdalene's energy? Her love for Jesus
impelled her (2 Cor 5:14). Christ's energy was "so powerful a force
within" her (Col 1:29). She was driven to seek Him Whom her heart loved
(Sg 3:1-2).

What was the source of Mary Magdalene's love? She loved because Jesus
first loved us (1 Jn 4:19). Mary Magdalene received her love by standing
at the foot of the cross, in the shadow of Jesus' crucified love (Jn
19:25). She saw the blood and water flow from the pierced side of Jesus
(Jn 19:34). Mary Magdalene received her love from the Fountain of love,
from His crucified body and pierced heart. Christ's love impelled her
because at Calvary she had "reached the conviction that since [Jesus] died
for all, all died" (2 Cor 5:14). She decided no longer to live for
herself, but for Him Who for her sake died and was raised up (2 Cor 5:15).
This response to God's love impelled and energized her.

Go to the crucified Jesus. Run for the risen Jesus.

Prayer: Father, may I always have the same motives Mary Magdalene had on
resurrection day.

Promise: "This means that if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.
The old order has passed away; now all is new!" —2 Cor 5:17

Praise: St. Mary Magdalene's love so freed her that she stood at the foot
of Christ's cross and soon gloried in His resurrection.

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Sunday, July 20, 2008

SETTLE OUT OF COURT - One Bread, One Body, 7/21/2008

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Monday, July 21, 2008, St. Lawrence of Brindisi

Micah 6:1-4, 6-8, Psalm 50, Matthew 12:38-42
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072108.shtml

SETTLE OUT OF COURT

"The Lord has a plea against His people, and He enters into trial with
Israel." —Micah 6:2

The Lord decided to take His people to court. He charged us with criminal
neglect of Him, and we were judged to be guilty as charged. However, the
Father sent His Son Jesus to take our punishment on Himself and to be
executed in our place (see Mi 6:7). If we repent of our sins and totally
give our lives to Jesus, we won't have to pay the punishment of
everlasting damnation for our sins. We can "settle out of court" by giving
our lives to Jesus so as to accept His giving of His death to us.

If we decide not to settle out of court, we will face another trial in
which our sentence will be finalized. At this trial of trials, on Judgment
Day, the Ninevites, the queen of the South, and probably others will take
the stand to testify to our criminal neglect of Jesus (see Mt 12:41ff).
The sentence of everlasting damnation which has already been pronounced
will then be executed.

Jesus' execution makes our final execution unnecessary. In this time
between trials, before Judgment Day, right now, let's repent, go to
Confession, and settle out of court (see Mt 5:25).

Prayer: Father, I accept my baptismal immersion into Jesus' death and
resurrection (see Rm 6:3ff).

Promise: "You have been told, O man, what is good, and what the Lord
requires of you: only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk
humbly with your God." —Mi 6:8

Praise: St. Lawrence of Brindisi accepted God's call as he received his
religious vocation at age sixteen.

(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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PM eNewsletter 16th Sunday in ordinary time

My brothers and sisters in Christ. I have a question for you.
Have you shared this eNewsletter with anyone lately? Pray
on it and pass the WORD. God Bess you and all you care for.

The editor

July 20th 16th Sunday in ordinary time

This week, oh! Christ, we celebrate a lady who was healed
by You and became a wonderful example of what Your
forgiveness can do to us.

Mary Magdelene was a sinner who was completely caught
up in the problems and things of this life, but she saw You
and was drawn into a new life of forgiveness and love.

Please, Jesus, heal us from our sinful ways and bring us
into that same love that Mary Magdalene shared with You.

Let us slowly come on fire with that love and let that love
change us and give us the peace and joy of loving You
with all that we are. Amen and Amen

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
________________________________________________

One Bread, One Body This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday ROOTS AND WEEDS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=7/20/2008

"Pull up the weeds and you might take the wheat along
with them." —Matthew 13:29

A farmer tells his farmhands not to weed his field because
they may take up the wheat with the weeds. This is an
unusual command. If farmers applied this in all cases, all
weeding would be prohibited. This command indicates that
the root-development of the wheat, the citizens of God's
kingdom (Mt 13:38), is dependent on the presence of the
weeds, "the followers of the evil one" (Mt 13:38). To "be
rooted in [Christ] and built up in Him, growing ever stronger
in faith" (Col 2:7), we must be in the presence of those who
are not with the Lord but following the evil one. This gives
us opportunities to share and defend our faith. We can
forgive these people when they hurt us and love them
unconditionally. We can take up our daily crosses (see Lk 9:23)
and share in the sufferings of Christ (Col 1:24).

The Lord turns all things to the good for those who love Him
(Rm 8:28). Your loving, forgiving, suffering outreach to the
weeds root you in Christ in wondrous ways. Thank God for
how He can deepen your faith through weeds. Love the weeds,
even if they hurt you. Remember you were a weed yourself and
would revert to being a weed but for the amazing grace of God.
Thank God for not weeding the field until the very end.

Monday SETTLE OUT OF COURT
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=7/21/2008

"The Lord has a plea against His people, and He enters into
trial with Israel." —Micah 6:2

Tuesday THE ENERGIZER
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=7/22/2008

"She ran." —John 20:2

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

Brochures

" Over 90 Biblically based brochures. Many on topics you
don't usually hear addressed." This Week's Featured Brochures

Conversion Conversations
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ConversionConv.asp

Do You Renounce Satan?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/RenounceSatan.asp

14 Questions on Forgiveness
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/14Quest.asp

14 Questions on Forgiveness

1) What is forgiveness? Forgiveness is our decision to accept
God's grace to let go of the hurt due to sins committed against
us and to express this by acts of mercy and love toward the
offender (see Lk 15:20-24). "Forgiveness is the restoration of
freedom to oneself. It is the key held in our own hand to our
prison cell" (Pope John Paul II).

2) How often must I forgive? 70 x 7, that is, indefinitely,
always (see Mt 18:22). 3) Are there any sins committed
against me which I don't have to forgive? No. The Lord calls
us to forgive all sins — even rape, murder, abuse, adultery, etc.
We never have the .............................

Gambling - Lottery, Raffles, Bingo
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Healing the Family Tree
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PM Internet Prayer Requests
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Let us pray to Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, that HE
will lead us into true repentance and conversion of heart,
mind and soul. In the most Holy and Powerful Name of JESUS
let us pray. amen
(Anonymous, 7/19/2008 10:34:21 PM)

FIrst I think God for the health of my husband. I had
previously prayed through this prayer room that my
husband's biopsy would be normal. After surgery about a
month ago, we learned everything was normal. Praise
God! Now I have just learned we are expecting our first
child. God opened our hearts through my husband's
experience with possible bad health, and we knew what
we really are called to do is to start a family. Praise God
for blessing us with this pregnancy. I pray God would
grant us peace every day and prepare us for this new baby.
I pray we would have enough material resources to take
care of the baby. I pray for help to make good decisions
about my job and for opportunities I may need when the
time comes to earn a living a different way, if necessary to
take care of the child the best I can. Amen!
(Anonymous, 7/19/2008 5:52:11 PM)

Pray for protection from all danger and help in spiritual
warfare. In thanksgiving that a bad person who was staying
with us has left. For an uneventful future, with no contact
from this person.
(Anonymous, 7/19/2008 2:58:34 PM)

Please pray for God to soften my husband's bosses heart
to his needs. Please pray for my husband the stress he
has at work. Please pray for our family. Please pray God
will bless us with ins. paying for our a/c. Special intentions
for a very good friend. For our country with the upcoming
elections. For our economy. For all those on my prayer
intentions. For all who post their prayers, I pray for your
intentions everyday. May God Bless us all and provide for
our needs. Please help us to trust in the Lord. Amen.
(Anonymous, 7/19/2008 2:24:31 PM)

I pray for a family who is suffering the loss of a five year
old who drowned. For my husband to have a great day at
work today and for him to be more organized. Please helo
me to do what it takes to make him increase his business
so that I can stay at home with our soon to be two sons.
Please give us hope for the future financially so that we
can get our of this apartment and into a house soon.
Please pray that my husband would quit searching for
something that is not there to make him happy. That he
would get sick of hanging out with the people he is with
and see that they are not motivating him to become a
better person but keeping him from being all that he can be.
(anoymous , Lafayette, la, 7/19/2008 1:38:28 PM)

My wife is from the Philippines. They are suffering greatly
due to price increases that 3 times greater than they were
yet their income has not increased. They have to rely on
our family but we can barely help our own family. Please
pray for my wife's family and my family to overcome this
issue and restore them to manageable means.
DADA Thank you and God Bless you
(T.S., New York, NY, United States, 7/19/2008 9:08:16 AM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
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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
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leaders who will form communities

PM's Small Christian Community Network Learn about
the Communities in our Network
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Small Christian Community Resources Introduction to Small
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"Unless the Lord Build the House..." — Psalm 127:
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Building Small Christian Communities (Team Manual)
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Listen Online! Inspired teaching on the daily Scripture
readings of the Catholic Church by Fr. Al Lauer Best of
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Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth Notable quotations
from Pope Benedict XVI and official teachings of the
Roman Catholic Church

FREEDOM

"GENUINE FREEDOM"
Let us pray fervently that the Church in America will be
renewed in that same Spirit, and sustained
in her mission of proclaiming the Gospel to a world that longs
for genuine freedom, authentic happiness and the fulfillment
of its deepest aspirations!

"NEW LIFE AND FREEDOM"
Let us trust in the Spirit's power to inspire conversion, to
heal every wound, to overcome every division and to inspire
new life and freedom. How much we need these gifts! And
how close at hand they are, particularly in the sacrament
of Penance!

"THE MYSTERY OF LOVE"
The Gospel teaches us that true freedom, the freedom of
the children of God, is found only in the self-surrender which
is part of the mystery of love.

PM Ministry List

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

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Word Gifts Ministry

http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp
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2008 RETREATS
Online Registration 2008

RETREATS

Jul 17 - 23

Silent Retreats and Eucharistic Adoration

"[St.] Francis was truly enamored with Jesus. He met
Him in the Word of God, in his fellow man, in nature, but
above all in His presence in the Eucharist" (Pope Benedict XVI,
Address to Young People in Assisi, June 17, 2007).

Sep 2 - Nov 18

How to Teach the Bible in the Power of the
Holy Spirit Faith comes through hearing the Word of God.

Deepen your personal commitment to Jesus Christ by discipling others to a
personal relationship with Jesus and experience the great joy of working
for the Lord.

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Saturday, July 19, 2008

ROOTS AND WEEDS - One Bread, One Body, 7/20/2008

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Sunday, July 20, 2008, 16th Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 12:13, 16-19, Romans 8:26-27, Psalm 86, Matthew 13:24-43
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072008.shtml

ROOTS AND WEEDS

"Pull up the weeds and you might take the wheat along with them." —Matthew
13:29

A farmer tells his farmhands not to weed his field because they may take
up the wheat with the weeds. This is an unusual command. If farmers
applied this in all cases, all weeding would be prohibited. This command
indicates that the root-development of the wheat, the citizens of God's
kingdom (Mt 13:38), is dependent on the presence of the weeds, "the
followers of the evil one" (Mt 13:38). To "be rooted in [Christ] and built
up in Him, growing ever stronger in faith" (Col 2:7), we must be in the
presence of those who are not with the Lord but following the evil one.
This gives us opportunities to share and defend our faith. We can forgive
these people when they hurt us and love them unconditionally. We can take
up our daily crosses (see Lk 9:23) and share in the sufferings of Christ
(Col 1:24).

The Lord turns all things to the good for those who love Him (Rm 8:28).
Your loving, forgiving, suffering outreach to the weeds root you in Christ
in wondrous ways. Thank God for how He can deepen your faith through
weeds. Love the weeds, even if they hurt you. Remember you were a weed
yourself and would revert to being a weed but for the amazing grace of
God. Thank God for not weeding the field until the very end.

Prayer: Father, may my faith be deep enough to persevere through the mass
apostasy before the end of the world (see 2 Thes 2:3).

Promise: "Though You are Master of might, You judge with clemency." —Wis
12:18

Praise: Praise the risen Lord, Whose "mercy endures forever"

(Ps 136:1).

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Friday, July 18, 2008

IS GOD HIDING? - One Bread, One Body, 7/19/2008

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Saturday, July 19, 2008

Micah 2:1-5, Psalm 10, Matthew 12:14-21
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/071908.shtml

IS GOD HIDING?

"When the Pharisees were outside they began to plot against [Jesus] to
find a way to destroy Him. Jesus was aware of this, and so He withdrew
from that place." —Matthew 12:14-15

The popular poem, "Footsteps," expresses the anguish of the psalmist:
"Why, O Lord, do You stand aloof? Why hide in times of distress?" (Ps
10:1) We look to God for help, and He seems to withdraw from us (see Mt
12:15). We are oppressed and in dire straits, and cry out to God for aid.
Yet instead of strong action, God seems to do nothing and things get worse
for us (see Ps 10:8-11). Why does it sometimes seem that God is
withdrawing from us (see Mt 12:15) in our time of great need? Even Jesus
Himself felt as if God had abandoned Him in His ultimate agony on the
cross (Mk 15:34).

As the above poem mentions, Jesus is carrying us in these situations even
though all we can perceive is that He has abandoned us. We feel like
saying: "The Lord has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me" (Is 49:14).
However, God's response to us is: "Can a mother forget her infant, be
without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I
will never forget you" (Is 49:15).

When Job in his misery questioned God's care for him, God did not answer
Job. Instead, He granted Job something better: a vision of His glory (Jb
38:1). Job was then content in His suffering because He knew God was with
him. Only after that did God restore Job (Jb 42:10).

No, God is not hiding. He is Emmanuel, God with us (Mt 1:23). Pray: Lord,
"I do believe! Help my lack of trust!" (Mk 9:24)

Prayer: Father, help me to be patient and hopeful in time of suffering. I
will "hope in silence for [Your] saving help" (Lam 3:26).

Promise: "I will endow Him with My Spirit and He will proclaim justice to
the Gentiles." —Mt 12:18

Praise: Only after years of praying could Joan see that her prayers had
been answered throughout the years.

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

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Thursday, July 17, 2008

SHOCK WAVES - One Bread, One Body, 7/18/2008

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Friday, July 18, 2008, St. Camillus de Lellis

Isaiah 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8, Isaiah 38:10-12, 16, Matthew 12:1-8
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/071808.shtml

SHOCK WAVES

"Put your house in order, for you are about to die; you shall not
recover." —Isaiah 38:1

The events surrounding Hezekiah's sickness were shocking. Instead of an
imminent death, he was granted an additional fifteen years of life (Is
38:5). The aftershock of this shock was the way the Lord proved to
Hezekiah that he would be healed within three days. God made the sun go
backward as a sign of Hezekiah's healing (Is 38:8).

However, this aftershock was still not the greatest shock. The "real
shocker" was the fact that Hezekiah's heart did not change after being
healed of terminal illness by Isaiah and seeing the awesome miracle of the
retreating sun. Hezekiah remained just as selfish as ever. When Isaiah
prophesied that the chosen people would be crushed by Babylon and led off
into exile, Hezekiah "thought, 'There will be peace and security in my
lifetime'" (Is 39:8). It's like saying: "I don't care what happens to you
as long as it doesn't happen to me."

What prophets, healings, and miracles couldn't do, Jesus, the Prophet,
Healer, Miracle-Worker, Savior, Lord, and God did accomplish. By His death
and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for us to become new creations
and receive new hearts (see Ez 36:26). This is the ultimate shock and the
ultimate reality.

Prayer: Father, may my response to Your healings and miracles be a holy
fear of You (see Acts 2:43).

Promise: "Those live whom the Lord protects...You have given me health and
life." —Is 38:16

Praise: St. Camillus, even though suffering from various diseases himself,
never quit tending the needs of others.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, "Living in Reality", or our
four-tape audio series starting with AV 38-1 or two-tape video series
starting with V-38.)

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Live for the Future - not the Past

Source: J.John

The apostle Paul wrote: "I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of
it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what
is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has
called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:12-14)

A man complained to his friend... "I just can't take it any more".
His friend says, ""Well, what's wrong?"
He replies: "It's my wife. Every time we have an argument, she gets
historical."
"You mean HYSTERICAL, don't you?" the friend asks.
"No," he says, "I mean HISTORICAL. Every argument we have she always brings
up the past."

I recently came across the expression 'The Land of Beginning Again.' Isn't
that a warm and comforting thought? How often have we wished we could go
back and do something all over again? Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could
get rid of all the regret and disappointment we carry around with us?
Wouldn't it be great if we could just leave them behind in a place and never
go back again?

Over 2,000 years ago a young Greek artist named Timanthes studied under a
respected tutor. After several years the teacher's mentoring seemed to have
paid off when Timanthes painted an exquisite work of art. Unfortunately, he
became so enraptured with the painting that he spent days gazing at it. One
morning when he arrived to admire his work he was shocked to find it blotted
out with paint. Angry, Timanthes ran to his teacher, who admitted he had
destroyed the painting. "I did it for your own good. That painting was
restricting your progress. Start again and see if you can do better."
Timanthes took his teacher's advice and produced Sacrifice of Iphigenia,
which is regarded as one of the finest paintings of antiquity.

Forgetting what is behind is an important part of understanding what hope is
all about. Hope is about what is to come, not what has been. The apostle
Paul understood this well. His past was filled with regret and
disappointment. He knew that he had to let go of the past and grab hold of
the present, because tomorrow would soon be here. The present is like an egg
laid by the past that has the future inside its shell.

We live in a rhythm of life between quitting one place and seeking another.
Consider the analogy of a trapeze artist swinging on a high bar to the
highest possible height, then letting go and reaching for the next bar with
hope and courage. Not quite here, not quite there, in mid-air there's a
sense of breathless suspense. This is the anxiety of faith. It requires
faith and hope. The transition will never be made unless the trapeze artist
(or the person of faith and hope) finds enough faith and hope to let go of
the past and take a leap of faith.

Let us heed the words of St Augustine: "Trust the past to God's mercy, the
present to God's love and the future to God's providence."

May you know the Lord's blessings all around the compass and the clock.

Agapé,

J.John

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