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

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

THE END - One Bread, One Body, 12/31/2008

Wednesday, December 31, 2008, Pope St. Sylvester

1 John 2:18-21, Psalm 96, John 1:1-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/123108.shtml

THE END

"Children, it is the final hour." —1 John 2:18

On this last day of the year, you may look back on 2008 and see that many
antichrists have appeared (1 Jn 2:18). It may have been a very difficult
year. However, tough years need not be bad years. Even the most
"impossible" year can be good. Even the most sinful year can be turned to
the good by repentance, forgiveness, and total commitment to Jesus. "All's
well that ends well." End this year by accepting God's grace.

Even if you have endured such a year as Job had, you have so much to be
thankful for. No suffering or tragedy should overshadow the "love
following upon love" (Jn 1:16) that God pours out over you. "Of His
fullness we have all had a share" (Jn 1:16). The Lord has again "crowned
the year" with His bounty (Ps 65:12). "Let us give thanks to the Lord our
God. It is right to give Him thanks and praise" (introduction to the
Preface at Mass).

"Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of
our Lord Jesus Christ" (Eph 5:20). "Dedicate yourselves to thankfulness"
(Col 3:15). "Let the last word be, He is all in all! Let us praise Him the
more, since we cannot fathom Him, for greater is He than all His works"
(Sir 43:28-29).

Thank You, Jesus, for 2008. I love You with all my heart.

Prayer: Father, may I realize that You don't owe me anything and I owe You
everything, even every moment of my life.

Promise: "In the beginning was the Word; the Word was in God's presence,
and the Word was God." —Jn 1:1

Praise: Pope St. Sylvester was thirty-third of the first thirty-five
canonized popes, when being chosen pope was tantamount to a death
sentence. He was blessed by God to lead the Church from her years of
persecution to be set "free in the open" (Ps 18:20) by his construction of
some of the first churches.

(Resolve to work for the Lord and for Presentation Ministries this New
Year! Consider becoming a co-worker. Attend the "Co-Workers" Retreat Jan
31, 2009 in Cincinnati. Call 513-662-5378 for information.)

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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
December 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, June 17, 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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Tuesday, December 30, 2008

CHRISTMAS OR XMAS? - One Bread, One Body, 12/30/2008

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

1 John 2:12-17, Psalm 96, Luke 2:36-40
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/123008.shtml

CHRISTMAS OR XMAS?

"Bring gifts, and enter His courts; worship the Lord." —Psalm 96:8-9

We can have two kinds of Christmases — one real and the other fake. Anna
had a real Christmas. This eighty-four year old widow "was constantly in
the temple, worshiping day and night in fasting and prayer" (Lk 2:37).
"She gave thanks to God and talked about the Child" (Lk 2:38). Anna met
and loved Christ. Her Christmas and life were Christ-centered.

The fake Christmas is described as "carnal allurements, enticements for
the eye, the life of empty show" (1 Jn 2:16). This fake Christmas passes
away. It leaves its victims self-centered, empty, and unprepared to deal
with the demands of life and the new year. This fake Christmas prevents us
from experiencing God the Father's love (1 Jn 2:15). It leaves us
spiritually bankrupt of love.

What if you've been deceived into celebrating the fake Christmas? What if
you've still not decided which Christmas you'll celebrate? You can repent
now. The Lord has called you to read this for that very reason. You don't
have to let the devil rob you of Christmas. There are still thirteen more
days remaining in the Christmas season in which you can meet and love
Jesus. You can live for Him. You can have a real Christmas.

Prayer: Father, may I "have no love for the world, nor the things that the
world affords" (1 Jn 2:15).

Promise: "The man who does God's will endures forever." —1 Jn 2:17

Praise: At age 99, Mary still lives a Christ-centered life by attending
daily Mass at her nursing home.

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Monday, December 29, 2008

HIS BIRTH AND OUR DEATHS - One Bread, One Body, 12/29/2008

Monday, December 29, 2008, St. Thomas Becket

1 John 2:3-11, Psalm 96, Luke 2:22-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122908.shtml

HIS BIRTH AND OUR DEATHS

"Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace." —Luke 2:29

Simeon told the Lord, His Master, that he was ready to die now that he had
seen Jesus alive. This points out the connection between our deaths and
Jesus' birth. The Church emphasizes this connection by celebrating the
deaths of Thomas Becket today, the Holy Innocents yesterday, and Stephen
on the second day of Christmas.

Jesus' birth and our deaths go together because Jesus has revealed to us
that our deaths are births into the eternal life of heaven. Death is not
the end of life, but the end of earthly limitations on life. "Now we see
indistinctly, as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. My knowledge
is imperfect now; then I shall know even as I am known" (1 Cor 13:12).

Death in Jesus is the birth into perfect life — a life greater than we can
ever see, hear, or conceptualize (1 Cor 2:9). Our earthly life is
comparable to being in the womb. In the womb, we are truly human beings;
we can experience God (see Lk 1:41); we can know love, be nourished, and
grow. However, when we are born, a whole new world opens up for us. Death
is the birth by which we are transferred from the womb of earthly life to
the light of heavenly life. We know this because we know Life itself,
Jesus Christ, the Baby born at Bethlehem.

Prayer: Father, may I not abort myself by sin.

Promise: "The darkness is over and the real light begins to shine." —1 Jn
2:8

Praise: For love of God, St. Thomas endured exile, many trials, and
ultimately death at the foot of the same altar at which he had offered
Mass for years.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Am I Going to Heaven?" on audio
AV 54-3 or video B-54.)

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Sunday, December 28, 2008

PM eNewsletter The Holy Family

Dec. 28th, The Holy Family

Jesus, so many times we have trusted others, and have
been hurt, but yet, we look at the Holy Family, and see
nothing but trust.

We see a poor family that had to flee to Egypt to save
the saviour of the world.

We see a family that did what it had to do to wait out
the fullfillment of the promised messiah.

We see a family that faced the lose of a father and husband.

We see a mom who had to let her son go, in spite of
the fact that He was her only child.

We see trust, we see love, and because of that, we
see the fulfillment of Your marvelous plan of salvation
for us all.

Thank You God. Amen and Amen

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
________________________________________________

For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the home
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday THE REAL THING
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/28/2008

"He came to the temple now, inspired by the Spirit, and
when the parents brought in the Child Jesus to perform
for Him the customary ritual of the law, he took Him in
his arms and blessed God." —Luke 2:27-28

Some orthodox Jews have the custom of using the birth
of a baby boy as an occasion to discourse on the
coming of the Messiah. An older relative traditionally
starts the conversation with the question: "Could this
baby be the Messiah?" Then various relatives wax
eloquently about the coming and the glories of the
Messiah.

Some people may have thought that Simeon and Anna
were only engaging in this traditional conversation when
they were talking about the Child Jesus "to all who
looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem" (Lk 2:38).
Simeon and Anna may have then even more vehemently
insisted that Jesus was "a revealing Light to the Gentiles,
the Glory"of Israel (Lk 2:32). But people may have thought
this was part of the game. Then Simeon and Anna would
have tried to tell them this wasn't a game, but the real
thing. This Baby was the Messiah!

We face a similar situation in our day. When we proclaim
Jesus as Messiah and Lord, people think this is merely
the religious game and the standard church-talk. Yet we,
like Simeon and Anna, must be filled with the Holy Spirit
and proclaim that this is the real thing. Jesus is the
Messiah. Christmas is real. God has become a man.
We are saved. Jesus is Lord and God.

Monday HIS BIRTH AND OUR DEATHS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/29/2008
"Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace." —Luke 2:29

Tuesday CHRISTMAS OR XMAS?
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/30/2008
"Bring gifts, and enter His courts; worship the Lord." —Psalm 96:8-9

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
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Brochures

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

This Week's Featured Brochures

· Your Christmas Present: The Psalms
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp

· The Truth Will Set You Free
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/TruthSetFree.asp

· An Isaiah Advent
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/AnIsaiahAdvent.asp

· Seek First the Kingdom
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SeekFirst.asp

· Ten Commandments of Intercession
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/Intercession.asp

· Healing the Family Tree
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/HealFamTree.asp

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

Please pray for me that my cancer does not return, and
that i can find the courage to leave an abusive husband.
(L.F., Cornwall, New York, United States, 12/27/2008 10:24:44 AM)

I am asking Please to pray for my grand-daughter,
Desiree, who is in need of prayer. She is Bipolar and
decided that she hates her life, so took a bunch of
pills --------- Pray that all works out for her good. In
Jesus name I pray - Lord hear my prayer. Thank you
(Anonymous, A small town in NC, 12/27/2008 8:16:29 AM)

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus' name, please pray
that I myself will be able to get rid of all temptations.
God is good. Pray also for our pregnancy that the baby
will always be fine until the due time,next month.
Hoping that the twist of umbillcal cord in his neck will
be fine and doesn't harm the baby and mother. Thank
God that my sister's head is getting better, she has
migraine. Finally we are very grateful and thankful for
all your continuous prayers and thoughts.GBU.
(Yab&LLL, Malang, East Java, Indonesia, 12/27/2008 3:05:43 AM)

Please pray for Jesus to intercede in my sister's life:
To expose Satan for what he is.
(L.B., Tampa, FL, United States, 12/26/2008 9:06:09 PM)

Please pray for clarity when it comes to my next weeks
work Schedule. Praise God I got Sunday off to visit with
family. Pray for my managers: Darrell, Troy, Jack,
Rachel, and Ira. They look like they have been having
a rough time. Pray for all singles during the hollidays-
Two in my singles class need prayer-Suzanne and Lisa.
Pray for me a good day at work tomorrow and that we
don't get out late.
(S., Gunter, Kennesaw, United States, 12/26/2008 8:08:21 PM)

Praise God for all your prayers. Mike is home from
the hospital. He was diagniosed with phnuemonia.
He will undergo further tests. Thank you Prayer Warriors
for your prayers.
(D., 12/26/2008 7:52:10 PM)

My son, DE, thinks his job will end this week. He is
behind in his house payments and all he says I catch
up at tax time. He makes good money and their is no
reason for him to be late. He whines my wife won't
help me. Please let him continue to work and make
his house payments. I just paid 3 mos. worth and I'm
slowly running out of money and tired of his
irresponsibilty.
(C., Indianapolis, Indiana, United States, 12/26/2008 7:37:28 PM)

Please pray for my mom and brother David, they
both are in need of mental and emotional healing
also, my brother is in poor health and does not take
care of himself Thank You1 Daniel P.
(D.P., Lorain, Ohio, United States, 12/26/2008 6:17:51 PM)

For strength and courage to bear the many crosses
of my family
(E.M., Alpine, Texas, United States, 12/26/2008 4:10:38 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, 1 Corinthians Part 1 & 2
and Romans Parts 1-3. Take a moment and check
the link below
http://presentationministries.com/tapes/tape.asp?pubID=269
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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
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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
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Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth

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

THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

TURN TO MARY

I would like to say, humbly, to those who suffer and to
those who struggle and are tempted to turn their backs
on life: turn towards Mary! Within the smile of the Virgin
lies mysteriously hidden the strength to fight against
sick and for life. With her, equally, is found the grace to
accept without fear or bitterness to leave this world at
the hour chosen by God.

RICH IN FAITH

To seek this smile of the Virgin Mary ... is the
aspiration ,,, of those who are "the richest of the
people" (Ps 44:13). "The richest" ... in the order of
faith, those who have attained the highest degree
of spiritual maturity and know precisely how to
acknowledge their weakness and their poverty
before God.

"JOY AND GLORY"

Today Mary dwells in the joy and the glory of the
Resurrection. The tears shed at the foot of the
Cross have been transformed into a smile which
nothing can wipe away, even as her maternal
compassion towards us remains unchanged.

(Source: Homily, Mass for the Sick, 9/15/08, Lourdes, France)
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2008-12.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
________________________________________________

2008 RETREATS
Online Registration

2008 RETREATS

· Co-Workers' Retreat ~ Focus on St. Paul (Jan 30-31)
· "Seek First The Kingdom of God" (Feb 27-28)
· Women's Retreat (Mar 28)

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreatSchedule.asp
________________________________________________

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THE REAL THING - One Bread, One Body, 12/28/2008

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

United Effort Required to Meet Food Crisis
Pius XII: A Mon Of Peace And Courage
In Defense of Life: Unleashing Love
Catholics, Muslims Dialogue
Light to the Nations: A Christian Perspective on World News
New Church Groups Are a Precious Resource

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Sunday, December 28, 2008, Holy Family

Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3, Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19, Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9,
Luke 2:22-40
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122808.shtml

THE REAL THING

"He came to the temple now, inspired by the Spirit, and when the parents
brought in the Child Jesus to perform for Him the customary ritual of the
law, he took Him in his arms and blessed God." —Luke 2:27-28

Some orthodox Jews have the custom of using the birth of a baby boy as an
occasion to discourse on the coming of the Messiah. An older relative
traditionally starts the conversation with the question: "Could this baby
be the Messiah?" Then various relatives wax eloquently about the coming
and the glories of the Messiah.

Some people may have thought that Simeon and Anna were only engaging in
this traditional conversation when they were talking about the Child Jesus
"to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem" (Lk 2:38).
Simeon and Anna may have then even more vehemently insisted that Jesus was
"a revealing Light to the Gentiles, the Glory"of Israel (Lk 2:32). But
people may have thought this was part of the game. Then Simeon and Anna
would have tried to tell them this wasn't a game, but the real thing. This
Baby was the Messiah!

We face a similar situation in our day. When we proclaim Jesus as Messiah
and Lord, people think this is merely the religious game and the standard
church-talk. Yet we, like Simeon and Anna, must be filled with the Holy
Spirit and proclaim that this is the real thing. Jesus is the Messiah.
Christmas is real. God has become a man. We are saved. Jesus is Lord and
God.

Prayer: Father, may our family life be so holy that it shouts that Jesus
is the Messiah.

Promise: "He remembers forever His covenant which He made binding for a
thousand generations." —Ps 105:8

Praise: Praise Jesus, Who humbled Himself to become a son in a human
family!

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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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39531b

EXO-3A5D5CE6

Saturday, December 27, 2008

BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS - One Bread, One Body, 12/27/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Saturday, December 27, 2008, St. John

1 John 1:1-4, Psalm 97, John 20:1, 2-8
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122708.shtml

BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS

"Then the disciple who had arrived first at the tomb went in. He saw and
believed." —John 20:8

"The other disciple (the one Jesus loved)" (Jn 20:2), not only ran to
Jesus' tomb faster than Peter, but also believed faster. However, Mary
Magdalene was faster than either Peter or John. She ran to them before
they ran to the tomb (Jn 20:2). She was the first one mentioned by the
Gospels as having met the risen Christ and having expressed faith in Him.
We can have "fast faith" as Mary Magdalene did.

When we love someone, we want him or her to accept our love as soon as
possible. Jesus is no different. He wants us to believe in His love for us
right away. He wants us to grow in our love for Him in an accelerated way.
He wants to deepen our love for Him very quickly in the next two weeks of
the Christmas season.

Christmas celebrates the time when human beings could first touch, kiss,
hold, feel, see, and hear Jesus physically (see 1 Jn 1:1-2). This physical
contact with Jesus made possible a deep, personal relationship with Him.
We did not lose this when Jesus physically ascended into heaven. By the
Holy Spirit and through the Eucharist, we now have even greater
opportunities for a close, personal relationship with Jesus! This
Christmas season, grow quickly in a deep, intimate love for Jesus.

Prayer: Father, may my personal relationship with You through Jesus grow
by leaps and bounds this Christmas season.

Promise: "Indeed, our purpose in writing you this is that our joy may be
complete." —1 Jn 1:4

Praise: "It is the Lord!" (Jn 21:7)

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Jesus' Incarnation "on audio AV
52-3 or video V-52.)

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Friday, December 26, 2008

The time has come for a big gift

Source: Taiwan Church News

A few weeks before Christmas last year, the documentary film "What Would
Jesus Buy?" made its debut in American theaters. The film created quite a
stir among American retailers in gift stores and toy stores across the
nation.

This documentary's producer, Morgan Spurlock, said that his intention behind
producing the film was to shed light on the trend of over-consumption among
Americans during the holidays in the past 50 years. Spurlock focuses on the
period beginning at Thanksgiving and ending after the New Year. He argues
that shopping sprees have misled children into thinking that the purpose of
Christmas is receiving gifts and a parent's love for a child is measured by
the number of gifts the child receives. Most Americans have equated
Christmas with shopping and many go on shopping sprees during Christmas only
to realise afterward that they have accumulated junk they would never use at
home.

It seems only Christian organisations remember that Jesus is the reason for
the season nowadays. For most people, Christmas is just another opportunity
to buy more stuff. Many people get side-tracked in comparing whose Christmas
tree is bigger or prettier. Retail stores compete against each other in
luring customers and making big money from giant sales. These activities
only take the focus away from the real meaning of Christmas, which is the
birth of Jesus Christ for the salvation of mankind.

The birth of Jesus was not an accident. It was a gift from God to humanity -
exquisitely timed and planned. God sent Jesus for our eternal salvation, as
foretold by the prophet Isaiah about 700 years before the birth of Christ:
"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with
child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel." (Isaiah
7:14). Isaiah also proclaimed, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is
given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called
Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
(Isaiah 9:6). Jesus' birth and how He grew into adulthood are described in
the first two chapters of the Gospel of Luke.

The fact that Jesus was an exquisitely timed gift from God can be seen from
the verses above and from Paul's letter to the church in Galatia. Paul
clearly told the Galatians, "But when the time had fully come, God sent his
Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we
might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the
Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father."
So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has
made you also an heir." (Galatians 4:4~7). From this passage, one can see
that Christmas is a time to celebrate Jesus' coming as God in the flesh.
Through the birth of Jesus, God was reconciling the world to Him and also
providing for our salvation through the sacrifice of His Son.

Jesus' birth in a lowly manger set the tone for the rest of His life on
earth as a humble, kind, and sacrificial role model. More importantly, His
birth brought new hope to humanity, peace for society, comfort for the poor
and oppressed, and reconciliation between people because of the salvation He
would later accomplish. Hence, the birth of Jesus is God's gift to humanity
at just the right moment. His birth is an irreplaceable, eternal gift. As
you send or receive cards and greet others during this Christmas season,
don't
forget the real meaning of Christmas.

CALVARY-CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/26/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Friday, December 26, 2008, St. Stephen

Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59, Psalm 31, Matthew 10:17-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122608.shtml

CALVARY-CHRISTMAS

"You will be hated by all on account of Me. But whoever holds out till the
end will escape death." —Matthew 10:22

On this second day of Christmas, the Church presents to us St. Stephen,
the first martyr. The festive red color of Christmas is mixed with the
blood-red of the martyr. The Church proclaims that Christmas is not just a
custom, diversion, or triviality. Christmas is glorious — and serious.
Christmas is the proclamation of Jesus' lordship. It is the Word
confronting the world (see Wis 18:15).

The Church's Christmas characters are not Santa, Rudolph, or Frosty. Our
Christmas saints are the fearless martyr Stephen, the massacred babies of
Bethlehem, the bloodied Thomas Becket, joyful and sorrowful mother Mary,
and Joseph the impoverished refugee. The Church proclaims that Christmas
is not primarily for the consumers and shoppers but for the witnesses, the
persecuted, and the poor.

You may have had the world's Christmas for years. Why don't you try
something different and celebrate the Word's Christmas? Repent, obey,
witness, and begin Christ's Christmas.

Prayer: Father, give me a good, old-fashioned, Bethlehem-Calvary
Christmas.

Promise: "As Stephen was being stoned he could be heard praying, 'Lord
Jesus, receive my spirit.' " —Acts 7:59

Praise: St. Stephen was so focused on his beloved Jesus that he saw the
heavens open as he was killed (Acts 7:56).

(Grow in Christ's Christmas by reading the Bible every day. We have
several tape series to help you. "Overview of the Bible" is six audio
tapes starting with AV 10A-1 or three video tapes starting with V-10A.
"15-minute Bible Teaching - New Testament" is forty audio tapes starting
with #700. "An Introduction to each Book of the Bible" is 32 audio tapes
starting with AV 21-1 or 17 video tapes starting with V-21.)

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Thursday, December 25, 2008

CONSTRICTED BY LOVE - One Bread, One Body, 12/25/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Thursday, December 25, 2008, Christmas

Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-6, Psalm 98, John 1:1-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122508.shtml

CONSTRICTED BY LOVE

"The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." —John 1:14

On this great celebration of Christmas, we recall Jesus being constricted
for love of us:
* Jesus, Son of God and Eternal Word of God, Whom the universe cannot
contain (2 Chr 6:18), is constricted in the womb of the Blessed Virgin
Mary.
* Jesus, through Whom all things came into being (Jn 1:3), accepts the
constraints and limitations of a human body.
* After birth, Jesus was "wrapped in swaddling clothes" (Lk 2:12).
These clothes encircled His body, constricting Him.
* The Baby Jesus was hunted down by the government. His family fled to
Egypt. He was constricted through life as a Refugee in a land far from His
home (Mt 2:14ff).
* Jesus was constricted on the cross, the almighty God pressed to its
wood by a few nails.
* Jesus was constricted again by swaddling clothes. His burial cloths
were wrapped around His immobile body.
* After dying, the body of Jesus was constricted in a tomb.

Why did Jesus submit to these constrictions for our sake? "God is love" (1
Jn 4:16), and love endures all things (1 Cor 13:7).

Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for taking on the constrictions of our humanity
so You could set us free in the power of Your resurrection! I join my
human life to Yours. I put my life in Your hands.

Promise: "Any who did accept [Jesus] He empowered to become children of
God." —Jn 1:12

Praise: "For a Child is born to us, a Son is given us; upon His shoulder
dominion rests" (Is 9:5). "With the Lord is kindness and with Him is
plenteous redemption" (Ps 130:7).

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

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Wednesday, December 24, 2008

THE TIME OF FULFILLMENT - One Bread, One Body, 12/24/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Wednesday, December 24, 2008

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16, Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29, Luke 1:67-79
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122408.shtml

THE TIME OF FULFILLMENT

"Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, uttered this
prophecy..." —Luke 1:67

On this Christmas Eve, we stand at the threshold of the fulfillment of
amazing prophecies. We may have been waiting for months or years for this,
and this Christmas season will be the awaited time. Most of these
prophetic promises of God may seem no closer to being fulfilled now than
they have been for years. Some of these revelations you can hardly
remember. It's been so long since you first heard them. Nonetheless, now
you are on the threshold, although you know this only by faith, not by
sight (2 Cor 5:7).

Today, in these last few hours before the Christmas season begins, pray,
fast, repent, read the Bible, and be quiet. Choose the better part (Lk
10:42). Don't be so busy about the details of hospitality (Lk 10:40). Sit
at Jesus' feet and listen to His words (Lk 10:39). Prepare the way of the
Lord (Is 40:3). He "will surely come." His prophetic revelation "will not
be late" (see Hab 2:3).

"We possess the prophetic message as something altogether reliable. Keep
your attention closely fixed on it, as you would on a lamp shining in a
dark place until the first streaks of dawn appear and the morning star
rises in your hearts" (2 Pt 1:19).

Prayer: Father, rekindle my faith that You will keep the promises which
have been unfulfilled for years.

Promise: "Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever." —2 Sm 7:16

Praise: After seeking forty years for God, John found his lost faith
during Advent, died shortly thereafter, and was home in heaven by
Christmas.

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Tuesday, December 23, 2008

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE - One Bread, One Body, 12/23/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Tuesday, December 23, 2008, St. John of Kanty

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24, Psalm 25, Luke 1:57-66
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122308.shtml

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE

"All who heard stored these things up in their hearts, saying, 'What will
this child be?' " —Luke 1:66

I hope you're more excited than you've ever been for Christmas — more
excited than when you were a little child waiting to open your Christmas
presents. The excitement I'm talking about is not primarily an emotion but
an expression of faith. It's not based on Christmas presents but on
Christmas presence. The Lord is present. We can see Him setting the
captives free, healing the sick, and working miracles. We sense His
presence within us, as He purifies our hearts and turns them to Himself.
We see the Lord present in the Church, His word, and the sacraments.

Although our sins blind us to His presence, we experience His presence
sometimes and know by faith that He is with us always even "until the end
of the world" (Mt 28:20). Today, although we may feel as if we have a
hundred things to do, we should stop everything for a while. We must be
Mary rather than Martha (see Lk 10:38ff). If we let Him quiet our hearts,
we will understand the words of the hymn "Silent Night." When all is calm,
all will be bright with a deep awareness of God's presence. As we sit
quietly at Jesus' feet (Lk 10:39), the business and busy-ness of Christmas
which have left us jaded will give way to an awareness and awe of Christ's
presence. We will be as a little child (see Mt 18:3). We will enter the
kingdom of God and be excited about Christmas.

Prayer: Father, give me an awe of You which is the beginning of Christmas
(see Ps 111:10).

Promise: "He will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like
silver." —Mal 3:3

Praise: "O Emmanuel, King and Lawgiver, Desire of the nations, Savior of
all people, come and set us free, Lord our God."

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

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Monday, December 22, 2008

MOTHER OF THE WORD INCARNATE - One Bread, One Body, 12/22/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Monday, December 22, 2008

1 Samuel 1:24-28, 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8, Luke 1:46-56
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122208.shtml

MOTHER OF THE WORD INCARNATE

"...even as He promised our fathers, promised Abraham and his descendants
forever." —Luke 1:55

Mary's response to Elizabeth in the words of the Magnificat (Lk 1:46-55)
shows her to be a woman completely grounded in God's word. Mary's lifelong
relationship with the word of God reached its fulfillment when she became
pregnant with Jesus, "the Word" (Jn 1:1). The mother of the Word Incarnate
was so filled with the Word that Scripture flowed from her lips
effortlessly.

Nearly every line of her Magnificat echoes an Old Testament passage. Mary
was undoubtedly familiar with Hannah's canticle in today's responsorial
Psalm (1 Sm 2:1-10), but echoes of the Psalms and other Old Testament
verses also resound throughout her Magnificat. The New American Bible
footnotes list twelve Old Testament Scriptures as cross-references for the
Magnificat, while the Jerusalem Bible references twenty-three such
passages.

"Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ" (Catechism, 133). God
sent His only Son into the world on the first Christmas so that we might
believe in Him and receive eternal life (Jn 3:16). If you conclude
Christmas 2008 without coming to know Jesus as Lord, Savior, and God, then
you've missed the whole purpose of Christmas. Therefore, follow Mary's
lead. Immerse yourself in the Scriptures. Prepare to meet Jesus, the Word
of God, this Christmas.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, Author of the Scriptures, grant me from this moment
forth an unquenchable desire to read the Bible.

Promise: "The Lord granted my request." —1 Sm 1:27

Praise: "O King of all the nations, the only Joy of every human heart; O
Keystone of the mighty arch of man, come and save the creature You
fashioned from the dust."

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

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Sunday, December 21, 2008

PM eNewsletter Fourth Sunday of Advent

Dec. 21st, Fourth Sunday of Advent

Oh! Jesus, this is it, the birth of You, and the start of our
journey to eternal life.

Let us see in Your birth, the gift that is so hard to
comprehend.

The gift of the love of the Triune God for us mortal sinners.

The gift that started with the making of the new arc of
the eternal covenent, and ends in Your glorious ascension
into heaven, to sit and plead for us at the right hand of the Father.

Come let us adore You, come let us become new
creatures of love, come let us be on fire with Your loving presence.

Come Lord Jesus and fill our hearts with peace, joy and trust.

Come Maranatha come. 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

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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday THE PEACE OF CHRISTMAS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/21/2008

"I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place
without further disturbance." —2 Samuel 7:10

The Lord promised David rest from his enemies (2 Sm 7:11).
This promise of peace was surprising since violence was
David's "claim to fame" (see 1 Sm 18:7). From cutting off
Goliath's head to setting up Uriah's murder, David lived an
extremely violent life. People must have laughed when
they heard David was promised peace. Nevertheless, the
promise at first seemed fulfilled because David's son
Solomon (Solomon means "peace") had a peaceful reign.
But David's grandson Rehoboam started a civil war. One
war led to more wars. Israel had no peace. It seemed as
if God's promise of peace to David's house was not kept.

After almost a thousand years, the archangel Gabriel
announced to Mary: "You shall conceive and bear a Son
and give Him the name Jesus. Great will be His dignity
and He will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord
God will give Him the throne of David His father"
(Lk 1:31-32). When this Child was born on the first
Christmas, the angels sang: "Glory to God in high
heaven, peace on earth" (Lk 2:14). It seemed as if
God's ancient promise of peace was finally fulfilled,
for Jesus talked about loving enemies, turning the other
cheek, making peace (Mt 5:44, 39, 9) and giving peace
(Jn 14:27). However, we eventually killed Jesus, our
Peace (Eph 2:14), and continue warring to the present day.

God's promise of peace to David's house has been
fulfilled in Jesus. All who live totally for Jesus have
peace beyond understanding (Phil 4:7). This peace
is not something imposed on us, but Someone
proposing to us. Accept Jesus our Peace.

Monday MOTHER OF THE WORD INCARNATE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/22/2008

"...even as He promised our fathers, promised
Abraham and his descendants forever." —Luke 1:55

Tuesday CHRISTMAS PRESENCE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/23/2008

"All who heard stored these things up in their
hearts, saying, 'What will this child be?' " —Luke 1:66

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

· Your Christmas Present: The Psalms
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp

· The Truth Will Set You Free
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/TruthSetFree.asp

· An Isaiah Advent
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/AnIsaiahAdvent.asp

For centuries the Catholic Church has been led by the
Spirit to prepare for Christ's Christmas coming by
reading the prophet, Isaiah. I invite you to ask for the
grace to read Isaiah in the following 22-day format.
(22-days is the briefest possible Advent.) This will help
you have the best Advent ever and prepare you to
celebrate Christmas in a life-changing, world-renewing way.

December 21 Isaiah 61-64
December 22 Isaiah 65-66

· Seek First the Kingdom
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SeekFirst.asp

· Ten Commandments of Intercession
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/Intercession.asp

· Healing the Family Tree
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/HealFamTree.asp

View All Brochures
http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/brochures.asp
________________________________________________

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

Please help me pray for direction for my life. I have no job,
lost a lot to a divorce, support son and I have been lonely
for probably 30 years. Help me Lord Jesus believe in you.
God Bless you all. Thank you.
(Anonymous, 12/20/2008 5:54:04 PM)

Praying that God will protect u s from lies- yes it is good
and i realize there is sin- the goodness of being a holy
hermit- is fine- but i have needs- i am picky but needy
still i aneed money. I need transportation- deliverance my
head hurts from riding. my mind - don't see straight- tired.
tempted annbd harrassed ie God says don't sin,
someone tries to avoid sin and gets frustrated- grant
them protection for they are in the world confused -
about sex- girls family- physical needs- can't seem to
avoid things need help loving- some false confusion
about virtues blinding me thank you Lord
(Anonymous, 12/20/2008 5:07:04 PM)

For the conversion of Kim to the Catholic faith. She's
a blogger I admired very much but disagreed with me
for my pro life views.
(J., 12/20/2008 4:26:27 PM)

That we will be able to successfully arrange Fr E's
volunteer placement
(HOHI, 12/20/2008 11:22:19 AM)

Please unite with me in prayer for Gill who has slight
bleeding and is unable to pinpoint the source. She is
away from home and on her own. That Jesus our
loving Saviour heals the bleeding and makes her well
as she has to report for duty tonight. Thank you for
your prayer support. Amen
(A., 12/20/2008 6:08:50 AM)

Please pray for 18 year old Karina who has an attack
of Jaundice - for her recovery and peace of mind even
as she goes through this illness. That she is able to
retain the medication and recover from this attack
soon. Also for her family to be at peace and find
Jesus even in this illness. Amen
(A., 12/20/2008 6:06:10 AM)

Help! I'm in dire straits at work. I have a job
emergency that needs to be resolved this weekend.
Please pray God can grant me a miracle, I need to
recover two lost items from work that disappeared.
My job depends on it. Thanks!
(desperate, L.A., CA, United States, 12/20/2008 1:03:44 AM)

Drew-bring closer to heart of Jesus, place Christian
people in life and remove people should not be in life,
have wisdom,practice self-restraint, have pecae and
compassion, pass exams, get a job.
(Anonymous, 12/19/2008 11:18:31 PM)

Ali-do well in school, do well in winter session,
improve study skills and habits,study ahead and
retain info.
(Anonymous, 12/19/2008 11:16:47 PM)

Drew-stay safe and clean, pass exams,be close
to family, have wisdom, make mature and wise
decisions,go abck to church, end relationship,
come home safely.
(Anonymous, 12/19/2008 11:15:39 PM)

That the Catholic Church and all the apostolates,
programs, schools, etc will not be affected by the
economy. That the Catholic churches, schools etc
do not close. For an increase in vocations to the
Priest hood and Religious life. That the Secular
Franciscan Order will be allowed to meet at my
Church. That God helps all of those I said I would
pray for from 2005 to the present. That I get my
house clean and rid of all the junk in the garage
and basement. That my husband go through his
papers and store them boxes in the basement.
(M.V. s.f.o., Springfield, United States, 12/19/2008 10:57:06 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, 1 Corinthians Part 1 & 2 and
Romans Parts 1-3. 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

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, Shepherd of Truth

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

THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

"SEEK YOUR SMILE"

The psalmist ... prophesies regarding the Virgin Mary
that "the richest of the people ... will seek your smile (Ps 44:13)

COMFORT FOR THE SUFFERING

Christians have always sought the smile of Our Lady ...
This smile ... is for all; but it is directed quite particularly
to those who suffer, so that they can find comfort and
solace therein.

NOT OUTDATED

To seek Mary's smile is not an act of devotional or
outmoded sentimentality, but rather the proper
expression of the living and profoundly human
relationship which binds us to her whom Christ gave
us as our Mother.

(Source: Homily, Mass for the Sick, 9/15/08, Lourdes, France)
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2008-12.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
________________________________________________

2008 RETREATS
Online Registration

2008 RETREATS

· Co-Workers' Retreat ~ Focus on St. Paul (Jan 30-31)
· "Seek First The Kingdom of God" (Feb 27-28)
· Women's Retreat (Mar 28)

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreatSchedule.asp
________________________________________________

--------------------------------------------------

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THE PEACE OF CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/21/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday, December 21, 2008, Fourth Sunday of Advent

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29, Luke
1:26-38
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122108.shtml

THE PEACE OF CHRISTMAS

"I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place without further
disturbance." —2 Samuel 7:10

The Lord promised David rest from his enemies (2 Sm 7:11). This promise of
peace was surprising since violence was David's "claim to fame" (see 1 Sm
18:7). From cutting off Goliath's head to setting up Uriah's murder, David
lived an extremely violent life. People must have laughed when they heard
David was promised peace. Nevertheless, the promise at first seemed
fulfilled because David's son Solomon (Solomon means "peace") had a
peaceful reign. But David's grandson Rehoboam started a civil war. One war
led to more wars. Israel had no peace. It seemed as if God's promise of
peace to David's house was not kept.

After almost a thousand years, the archangel Gabriel announced to Mary:
"You shall conceive and bear a Son and give Him the name Jesus. Great will
be His dignity and He will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God
will give Him the throne of David His father" (Lk 1:31-32). When this
Child was born on the first Christmas, the angels sang: "Glory to God in
high heaven, peace on earth" (Lk 2:14). It seemed as if God's ancient
promise of peace was finally fulfilled, for Jesus talked about loving
enemies, turning the other cheek, making peace (Mt 5:44, 39, 9) and giving
peace (Jn 14:27). However, we eventually killed Jesus, our Peace (Eph
2:14), and continue warring to the present day.

God's promise of peace to David's house has been fulfilled in Jesus. All
who live totally for Jesus have peace beyond understanding (Phil 4:7).
This peace is not something imposed on us, but Someone proposing to us.
Accept Jesus our Peace.

Prayer: Father, may we beat our missiles into plowshares and our bombs
into pruning hooks (Is 2:4).

Promise: "Let it be done to me as you say." —Lk 1:38

Praise: "O Radiant Dawn, Splendor of eternal light, Sun of justice: come,
shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death."

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

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Saturday, December 20, 2008

THE INCARNATION - One Bread, One Body, 12/20/2008

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Isaiah 7:10-14, Psalm 24, Luke 1:26-38
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122008.shtml

THE INCARNATION

"The angel answered her: 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power
of the Most High will overshadow you; hence, the holy Offspring to be born
will be called Son of God." —Luke 1:35

If Jesus hadn't become a human being, there would be no saving death and
resurrection, no Church or Mass, no body of Christ — there would be no
Christmas. Therefore, the Incarnation was one of the greatest events in
the history of the human race, and the basis for all the other great
events.

Accordingly, we recall the Incarnation morning, noon, and evening in the
prayer called the "Angelus." We recall the Incarnation at least
fifty-three times in one five-decade rosary as we pray each "Hail Mary."
We meditate on the Incarnation as the first joyful mystery. We celebrate
the feast of the Incarnation March 25 under the name of the Annunciation.
We read about it in Luke 1:35 and John 1:14, and read it between all the
rest of the lines of the Bible. We proclaim the Incarnation each Christmas
by celebrating the birth of Jesus nine months after He became a human
being.

Are you so accustomed to all these references to the Incarnation that you
ignore them? Or are you ever more deeply entering into the mystery of the
Incarnate God? Be amazed that God became a human being — conceived,
birthed, nursed, tired, tempted, sad, crucified, and dead. Treasure all
these things and reflect on them in your heart (see Lk 2:19).

Prayer: Father, may I relate to the Incarnate Jesus as did the wise men
(see Mt 2:11).

Promise: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you this sign: the virgin
shall be with Child, and bear a Son, and shall name Him Immanuel." —Is
7:14

Praise: "O Key of David, O Royal Power of Israel controlling at Your will
the gate of heaven: come, break down the prison walls of death for those
who dwell in darkness and shadow of death; and lead Your captive people
into freedom."

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Friday, December 19, 2008

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FORGOTTEN PRAYER? - One Bread, One Body, 12/19/2008

We hope the LORD has blessed you through our website and e-mail lists.
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Friday, December 19, 2008

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25, Psalm 71, Luke 1:5-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121908.shtml

FORGOTTEN PRAYER?

"Do not be frightened, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard." —Luke 1:13

Luke's text gives us several clues to Zechariah's background. Zechariah
and Elizabeth were advancing in age. Elizabeth was past the age of bearing
children (Lk 1:18, 36). Apparently, some years before, Zechariah had
prayed for children; hence, the angel says: "Your prayer has been heard"
(Lk 1:13). Zechariah's startled and skeptical reaction indicates that he
probably had forgotten about this prayer and perhaps hadn't prayed for a
child in quite a few years.

Sometimes we Christians assume that prayer has a kind of spiritual
"statute of limitations," that if God hasn't answered our prayers in what
seems to us a "reasonable" amount of time, then He has forgotten our
prayer and therefore the prayer no longer is valid. However, the angel
tells Zechariah, "Your prayer has been heard" (Lk 1:13). God did not
forget his prayer. As the angel says: "They will all come true in due
season" (Lk 1:20).

Have you prayed for something for a time, then stopped praying because it
seemed to you that God wasn't listening? Take the angel's advice:
"Silence...in the presence of the Lord!" (Zec 2:17) Be still and know that
He is God (see Ps 46:10, JB).

Prayer: (Pray to the Father a seemingly unanswered prayer which you
haven't prayed for years.)

Promise: "In these days the Lord is acting on my behalf." —Lk 1:25

Praise: "O Flower of Jesse's stem, You have been raised up as a Sign for
all peoples; kings stand silent in Your presence; the nations bow down in
worship before You. Come, let nothing keep You from coming to our aid."

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

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Thursday, December 18, 2008

Making the choice for 'Peace'

Weekly Feature

Source: Joyce Meyer
I speak at conferences in cities all over the world and sometimes I ask our
crew to place a rocking chair in a conspicuous place on the stage.
Occasionally, while I am speaking, I'll walk over and sit in the chair and
begin to rock.

I don't do this because I'm tired or because I want to give the impression
that I'm relaxed. I do this to illustrate a point. When you rock in a
rocking chair, you generate a lot of activity and movement-back and forth,
back and forth. But no matter how active you may appear to be, you never
actually go anywhere. You can be really active, vigorously moving back and
forth, but you'll never accomplish anything. You'll always stay right where
you started.

Like the rocking chair, we all get involved in things every day that appear
to be necessary. We're moving around a lot and generating a lot of activity,
but we're not accomplishing a thing.

For example, we can get upset and worry and stew about situations we couldn't
change if we tried. We can fret and be anxious about things and call our
friends and talk about those things. We can read articles that deal with
those things or watch television shows that deal with those subjects. But
none of those things will change our circumstances at all.

I want to share a Bible verse with you. John 14:27 says, Peace I leave with
you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives
do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be
afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not
permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled]
(AMP).

Now let me explain the context of this verse to you because it's very
important. This verse includes some of the very last words Jesus spoke to
His disciples before He ascended into heaven. Now think about that for a
minute. Imagine that you are getting ready to go on a long trip and just
before you walk out the door, you turn to your family. What do you say? You
say the most important things-those things you don't want them to forget.

That's the way it was with Jesus. He knew He was getting ready to leave them
and wanted to pass along some of the most important things He could think
of. He told them to stop allowing themselves to be agitated and disturbed,
and not to permit themselves to be fearful and intimidated, cowardly or
unsettled.

Did you realize that these things are about choices that you make? You don't
have to live a life filled with agitation and fear. You don't have to be
intimidated and unsettled. Having peace is a choice. You can actually choose
to walk in the peace that Jesus was referring to in that verse above.

Now, there is a "worldly" kind of peace that people have when everything is
going their way and they're getting everything they want. But anyone can
have peace when everything is going their way. That's not difficult at all;
in fact, it's natural.

But the way that we show the real power of God in our lives is when we have
many of the same kinds of unpleasant circumstances that other people have
and yet, while they are upset and unsettled, wasting their time worrying and
fretting, we're peaceful and calm, enjoying life right in the midst of the
trials and tribulations.

You can wish you didn't get upset and fretful. You can wish you didn't
become anxious and agitated. But just like the rocking chair doesn't
actually take you anywhere, just wishing for something never accomplishes
anything.

What about you? Are you choosing peace today? Remember the rocking chair.
Don't fall into the trap of busying yourself with fretting and worrying
about circumstances that you cannot change.

No matter what your circumstances may be, having peace and contentment is a
choice you make. You no longer have to live under your circumstances. Get up
out of the rocking chair and make the bold choice to walk in the peace of
Christ!

Useful link: www.joycemeyer.org

THE SUPERMAN OF FAITH - One Bread, One Body, 12/18/2008

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Thursday, December 18, 2008

Jeremiah 23:5-8, Psalm 72, Matthew 1:18-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121808.shtml

THE SUPERMAN OF FAITH

"Joseph, son of David, have no fear about taking Mary as your wife. It is
by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived this Child." —Matthew 1:20

In one week, we will celebrate the first day of the Christmas season. Have
you prepared the way of the Lord? (Lk 3:4) Do you have faith strong enough
to move mountains (Mt 17:20) so as to fill in the valleys, make the
crooked straight, and the rough smooth? (Lk 3:5) All, including Christmas,
"depends on faith" (Rm 4:16). But when Christ comes this Christmas and at
the end of the world, "will He find any faith on the earth?" (Lk 18:8)

To grow strong in faith, we must recognize the cloud of witnesses
surrounding us (Heb 12:1). They in turn will help us recognize Christ and
fix our eyes on Him Who is the Beginning and the End of our faith (Heb
12:2). Realize that right now you are surrounded by Mary, John the
Baptizer, and countless other saints in heaven and on earth. Recognize
especially Joseph's presence. He made one of the greatest acts of faith in
history. He believed the unimaginable — that Mary had conceived by the
power of the Holy Spirit (Mt 1:20).

Joseph was the superman of faith. Recognize Joseph, who will direct you to
Jesus, Who will gift you with deep faith. St. Joseph, pray for us.

Prayer: Father, work through Your witnesses to help me receive
mountain-moving faith and more.

Promise: "Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up
a righteous Shoot to David." —Jer 23:5

Praise: "O sacred Lord of ancient Israel, Who showed Yourself to Moses in
the burning bush, Who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain: come,
stretch out Your mighty hand to set us free."

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Hold Fast to the Faith" on audio
AV 71-1 or video V-71.)

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Wednesday, December 17, 2008

FAMILY MATTERS - One Bread, One Body, 12/17/2008

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Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Psalm 72, Matthew 1:1-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121708.shtml

FAMILY MATTERS

"A family record of Jesus Christ..." —Matthew 1:1

Wait! Don't skip the genealogy! Because we love the Lord, we can't wait to
learn more about Him. Here's a few things God reveals about Himself in St.
Matthew's genealogy:
* Jesus Christ is a human being, God made man.
* Jesus is God, the Messiah, born of a virgin (Mt 1:16, 18).
* Family comes first — these are the first verses of the New Testament,
and God can't wait to introduce His family.
* God works through people — lots of them.
* God loves families. Jesus lived in one for thirty years.
* Some family members are extraordinary (e.g. Mary, Joseph, David);
others are faithful (e.g. Ruth, Josiah); some are nondescript (e.g. Eliud,
Azor); others are despicable (e.g. Manasseh, Rehoboam). Jesus considers
them all His family. God's plan was accomplished through each one.
* Some, like Ruth and Rahab, were outsiders but were welcomed into
God's family for their loving faithfulness.
* God is pro-life. He loves fathers, mothers, and children.
* God has a place in His plan for every baby, including those born of
prostitution (Perez — Mt 1:3; Gn 38:1-30), injustice (Solomon — Mt 1:6; 2
Sm 11:1-27), and mixed marriages (Obed — Mt 1:5; Ru 4:5ff).
* God is patient. His plan may take a long time to unfold.
* "God is not ashamed to be called their God" (Heb 11:16) and Jesus is
not ashamed of His family. He loves them.

"Beloved, we are God's children now" (1 Jn 3:2). Let us love our brothers
and sisters in Christ.

Prayer: Father, thank You for adopting me into Your family! May I please
You and bring honor to Your family name.

Promise: "The scepter shall never depart from Judah." —Gn 49:10

Praise: "O Wisdom, O holy Word of God, You govern all creation with Your
strong yet tender care. Come and show Your people the way to salvation."

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

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