Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]: January 2009

Saturday, January 31, 2009

FAITH-FULL? - One Bread, One Body, 1/31/2009

We invite you to sign the petition against the Freedom of Choice Act. If
FOCA becomes law in the US it would establish the right to abortion as a
fundamental right and wipe away every restriction on abortion nationwide.

Usually we don't mention things like this in the OBOB email, but we need
to do everything we can stop this. Please sign the petition today and
pass along to others to raise awareness.

http://www.FightFOCA.com
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Saturday, January 31, 2009, St. John Bosco

Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19, Luke 1:69-75, Mark 4:35-41
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/013109.shtml

FAITH-FULL?

"Faith is confident assurance concerning what we hope for, and conviction
about things we do not see." —Hebrews 11:1

Faith is an assurance. This confident assurance concerns what we hope for
but can't see. We are saved by faith in Jesus (Eph 2:8). "All depends on
faith" (Rm 4:16). Without faith, it's impossible to please God (Heb 11:6).
The conquerors of the world are those who have faith that Jesus is the Son
of God (1 Jn 5:5). When Jesus comes back a second and final time, He will
be looking to see if there is any faith on this earth (Lk 18:8).
Therefore, we definitely need faith.

Faith is a gift from God. He gives us the gift of faith by giving us
Himself. We accept the Gift of God Himself by totally giving our lives to
Jesus. Then we can have a deep, personal relationship with the Father
through the Son and in the Spirit. In this relationship, we develop a deep
faith.

If we resist the temptation to take control of our lives, if we don't try
to provide all our needs ourselves, we will see God father us and deepen
our faith in Him. If we take up the daily cross, we will believe ever more
deeply in the crucified Jesus. If we let it be done unto us according to
God's word (see Lk 1:38), we will develop faith in the Holy Spirit, Who
teaches us (Jn 14:26) to hear Him by hearing the word (see Rm 10:17). The
purpose of life is to have faith, grow in faith, and walk by faith in God
(2 Cor 5:7).

Prayer: Father, by faith in You may I do what I've never done before.

Promise: "The wind fell off and everything grew calm. Then He said to
them, 'Why are you so terrified? Why are you lacking in faith?' " —Mk
4:39-40

Praise: St. John Bosco heard his call to the priesthood as a nine-year-old
shepherd boy, and walked by faith and attained his goal.

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

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

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Friday, January 30, 2009

SPIRITUAL SUICIDE? - One Bread, One Body, 1/30/2009

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

Financial Crisis Has Moral Dimension
Migrants Challenge Christians To Love
In Defense of Life: Teaching Confusion
Mary Continues To Call For Conversions
Pius XII Left Rich Legacy

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Friday, January 30, 2009

Hebrews 10:32-39, Psalm 37:3-6, 23-24, 39-40, Mark 4:26-34
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/013009.shtml

SPIRITUAL SUICIDE?

"Do not, then, surrender your confidence; it will have great
reward." —Hebrews 10:35

Satan is trying to get us to surrender our confidence, to draw back (Heb
10:38-39), to give up, to commit spiritual suicide. To keep the faith, we
have to endure "a great contest of suffering" (Heb 10:32). This contest
lasts a long time. Relief in our sufferings seems indefinitely delayed
(see Heb 10:37). Any benefits from our sufferings seem to be invisible or
negligible.

Under these circumstances, we naturally feel like giving up. Satan will
even let us give up without appearing to give up everything. He'll let us
keep the trappings of Christianity as long as we're lukewarm in our
commitment to Jesus (see Rv 3:16). So it's very easy to give up and not
even look bad to other Christians.

How many church-goers are just going through the motions? We can look like
a Christian while actually being quite unlike Christ. How many spouses are
divorced in heart and spirit although not on paper? How many parents have
long ago given up discipling their children? How many churches have given
up on trying to evangelize?

If you've given up on life and on God, repent. The Lord will take you
back. If you're keeping the faith but wondering how long you'll have to
suffer, fix your eyes on Jesus, and you will rejoice in the measure you
suffer for Him (1 Pt 4:13).

Prayer: Father, may my faith move mountains and not vice versa (see Mt
17:20).

Promise: "Take delight in the Lord, and He will grant you your heart's
requests." —Ps 37:4

Praise: Although dying of cancer, Denise did not complain and continued to
serve others in a Christ-like way.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Spiritual Adultery" on audio AV
53-1 or video V-53.)

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

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Thursday, January 29, 2009

THE ASSEMBLIES OF GOD - One Bread, One Body, 1/29/2009

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

Financial Crisis Has Moral Dimension
Migrants Challenge Christians To Love
In Defense of Life: Teaching Confusion
Mary Continues To Call For Conversions
Pius XII Left Rich Legacy

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Thursday, January 29, 2009

Hebrews 10:19-25, Psalm 24, Mark 4:21-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012909.shtml

THE ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

"We should not absent ourselves from the assembly, as some do." —Hebrews
10:25

When we assemble with other Christians, we:
* "encourage one another" (Heb 10:25),
* "rouse each other to love and good deeds" (Heb 10:24),
* experience Jesus' presence in a special way (see Mt 18:20),
* pray with greater power and fruitfulness (see Mt 18:19),
* experience more fully the gifts of the Spirit (see 1 Cor 12:7),
* prepare for Jesus' final coming (see Heb 10:25), and
* strengthen one another (Eccl 4:12).

Because the Lord works so gloriously when Christians assemble, He commands
us in His word not to absent ourselves from the assembly (Heb 10:25). The
Catholic Church echoes this command by holding us responsible under pain
of sin to fulfill our Sunday and Holy Day obligations to celebrate Mass on
these days (see Catechism, 2181). Because it's so important for Christians
to assemble, we should ask the Lord how often we should celebrate Mass in
addition to Sundays and Holy Days, participate in other communal prayer
services, and pray together at home as a family. The Lord is likely
calling many of us to join with others in small Christian communities. To
be spiritually healthy, Christians need to assemble several times a week
at church and home.

Prayer: Father, may I come together frequently with other Christians,
especially when I don't feel like it.

Promise: "Listen carefully to what you hear. In the measure you give you
shall receive, and more besides." —Mk 4:24

Praise: Jane credits her home-based community with helping her to stay
faithful and focused on God.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "What is Christian Community? "on
audio AV 76-1 or video V-76.)

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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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Wednesday, January 28, 2009

FINISHING SCHOOL - One Bread, One Body, 1/28/2009

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

Financial Crisis Has Moral Dimension
Migrants Challenge Christians To Love
In Defense of Life: Teaching Confusion
Mary Continues To Call For Conversions
Pius XII Left Rich Legacy

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Wednesday, January 28, 2009, St. Thomas Aquinas

Hebrews 10:11-18, Psalm 110, Mark 4:1-20
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012809.shtml

FINISHING SCHOOL

"Jesus offered one sacrifice for sins and took His seat forever at the
right hand of God; now He waits until His enemies are placed beneath His
feet." —Hebrews 10:12-13

Jesus has already won the ultimate victory over Satan, sin, death, hell,
slavery, fear, etc. It's over. Jesus is victorious irreversibly. We don't
have to wonder about the outcome. As Jesus said on Calvary: "It is
finished" (Jn 19:30). All that's left is to mop up after Jesus' victory by
placing His enemies beneath His feet (Heb 10:13).

We do this by first throwing ourselves at Jesus' feet in submission and
adoration. In this way we join in Jesus' victory and refuse to believe the
devil's lies or take his bribes. We hasten the day (2 Pt 3:12) when every
knee, even Satan's, will bend before Jesus the Lord (Phil 2:10). He
promises: "I am coming soon! I bring with Me the reward that will be given
to each man as his conduct deserves. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the
First and the Last, the Beginning and the End!" (Rv 22:12-13)

Jesus is finished, and we'll be finished too, when we place ourselves and
Jesus' enemies at His nail-scarred feet.

Prayer: Jesus, I prostrate myself before You as did the wise men (Mt
2:11).

Promise: "Those sown on good soil are the ones who listen to the word,
take it to heart, and yield at thirty- and sixty- and a hundredfold." —Mk
4:20

Praise: St. Thomas, perhaps the wisest and most prolific teacher in Church
history, was praying before a crucifix near the end of his life. A voice
asked Thomas what he wanted as the reward for all of his service to God.
Thomas answered, "None but Yourself, O Lord."

("Seek First the Kingdom" is a retreat that helps you put your priorities
in a "right order." Call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397 to register for this
retreat held in the Cincinnati area on Feb. 28th.)

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Tuesday, January 27, 2009

LOVE THE UNLOVABLE - One Bread, One Body, 1/27/2009

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

Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth is designed as a bulletin insert
which you can use at your local church to keep up to date on what the Holy
Father is saying. You are free to reproduce it for this purpose.
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Tuesday, January 27, 2009, St. Angela Merici

Hebrews 10:1-10, Psalm 40, Mark 3:31-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012709.shtml

LOVE THE UNLOVABLE

"Gazing around Him at those seated in the circle He continued, 'These are
My mother and My brothers.' " —Mark 3:34

Jesus looked at the motley crew of disciples and called them His "mother
and brothers." He accepted them as family. He said His brother, sister,
and mother is whoever does God's will (Mk 3:35). Although at this point
the apostles were not totally doing God's will, Jesus accepted them as
family to change them into disciples who would do God's will.

The Lord loved us first (1 Jn 4:19); He loves us as family; He loves us as
much as He loves Mary. He loves us unconditionally. He loves us not
because we are lovable, but we are made lovable by His love. Jesus really
means it when He calls us brothers and sisters and mothers to Him. He even
suffered and died for us. Jesus knows everything about us. He knows
whether we will be Judas and betray Him, or Peter and deny Him. He knows
about all the skeletons in our closets, yet He chooses to be with us and
within us. He wants to be with us, even when we don't want to be with
ourselves. Jesus loves us even when we don't love ourselves. He loves us.

Prayer: Jesus, I have just begun to receive Your love. May I open up and
let You show Your love to me.

Promise: "By this 'will,' we have been sanctified through the offering of
the body of Jesus Christ once for all." —Heb 10:10

Praise: St. Angela promoted home-schooling for young women five centuries
ago. She cared for the "least of the brethren" by her resolve to educate
the poor.

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

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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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Monday, January 26, 2009

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS - One Bread, One Body, 1/26/2009

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

Monday, January 26, 2009, Sts. Timothy & Titus

2 Timothy 1:1-8 or, Titus 1:1-5, Psalm 96, Mark 3:22-30
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012609.shtml

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS

"Paul, by the will of God an apostle of Christ Jesus sent to proclaim the
promise of life in Him, to Timothy, my child whom I love." —2 Timothy
1:1-2

Paul considered Timothy and Titus his spiritual children (2 Tm 1:2; Ti
1:4). Paul remembered them in his prayers "constantly, night and day" (2
Tm 1:3). When Paul and Timothy went their separate ways to serve the Lord,
Timothy broke into tears (2 Tm 1:4). Paul felt so close to Titus that his
very presence lifted Paul's spirits (2 Cor 7:6). Both Timothy and Titus
were accountable to and submissive to Paul. Timothy obeyed Paul by staying
on in Ephesus although he may have wanted to quit that ministry (see 1 Tm
1:3). Titus obeyed Paul by taking on the exceptionally difficult ministry
of appointing presbyters in every town of Crete (Ti 1:5).

Paul's relationships with Timothy and Titus are a good model of authentic
Christian relationships. These relationships are Christ-centered,
prayerful, submissive, deep, loving, pure, and self-sacrificing. The Lord
wants to gift us with these kinds of relationships. If we die to ourselves
and obey the Lord, He will give us relationships of unconditional love,
permanent commitment, and deep joy. Let Jesus be Lord of all your
relationships.

Prayer: Father, may my relationships not be conformed to this world, but
transformed by Your Spirit (see Rm 12:2).

Promise: "The Spirit God has given us is no cowardly Spirit, but rather
One That makes us strong, loving, and wise." —2 Tm 1:7

Praise: Sts. Timothy and Titus obeyed their spiritual father, St. Paul,
and showed many the Way to the Father (see Jn 14:6).

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Who Am I In Christ?" or our
four-part series of audio tapes starting with AV 7A-1 or our two-part
video series starting with V-7A.)

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

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Sunday, January 25, 2009

PM eNewsletter Third Sunday in ordinary time

January 25th Third Sunday in ordinary time

Jesus, Your gift of Your presense in the Eucharist should
fill us with gratitude and love.

Lord, help us to come and sit with You, and let us do
everything we can do to draw others to Eucharistic Adoration.

Help us to see that everytime we sit with You, You give us
a sense of well being, and that well being helps us walk
the talk, and not just talk the talk.

Jesus, help us always be authentic in our lives, by being
so in love with You, that You truly become our center
focus, and purpose.

Let us be all that You want us to be, and let us give to
all, that all may see the Christ in us. Amen and Amen

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
________________________________________________

For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the
home page of Presentation Ministries? Please take a look.
http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp

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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT GOD'S WORD
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/25/2009

"Jonah began...announcing, 'Forty days more and Nineveh
shall be destroyed,' when the people of Nineveh believed
God." —Jonah 3:4-5

At Mass this morning, the gentleman seated directly in front
of me paid no attention whatsoever to the homily. He was
fidgeting in his seat, looking to the right and left as the
pastor told several anecdotes related to today's readings.
Halfway through the homily, the pastor quoted from memory
Jesus' words in Matthew 25:35-45. At the very instant the
pastor quoted the first word of the Scripture passage, this
man's head literally whipped around ninety degrees, and he
stared intently at the priest. He listened in rapt attention,
riveted and motionless for the remainder of the homily. The
change was striking to observe. There's something different
about the word of God.

Our words can be helpful to others, but it's God's word that
has the power to reach hearts. Jonah announced God's
word and got immediate results (Jon 3:4ff). Jesus spoke
God's "now-word" (see Ez 33:30) and got immediate
results; the disciples immediately abandoned their nets
and followed Him (Mk 1:17, 20).

God's word is living and effective, and pierces
hearts (Heb 4:12). It always does the job (Is 55:10-11). It
reverberates inside people's hearts and "produces of itself"
results in the lives of men and women (Mk 4:28). Revise
your vocabulary. Speak God's word — for a change.

Monday CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/26/2009

"Paul, by the will of God an apostle of Christ Jesus sent
to proclaim the promise of life in Him, to Timothy, my
child whom I love." —2 Timothy 1:1-2

Tuesday LOVE THE UNLOVABLE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/27/2009

"Gazing around Him at those seated in the circle He
continued, 'These are My mother and My brothers.' " —Mark 3:34

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

· How to Stop Abortion: Claiming Our Victory Over Satan
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/StopAbortion.asp

· Sexual Sin, Abortion, and the Pill
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SexSinAbortionPill.asp

Facing reality is essential to sanity, reconciliation, healing,
and growth. Pretending existing realities are nonexistent
can only be harmful.

When we apply this basic principle to counseling those
who have committed sexual sins and/or have had an
abortion, there are several realities which must be faced
if those involved are ever to be freed.

1. SEXUAL BOND — In sexual intercourse, there is a
physical bonding of the couple. The members of the one
become the members of the other. The two become one
flesh (1 Cor 6:15-16). In the marriage covenant, this
sexual bonding is a great blessing. Outside of marriage,
it is a bondage. The sexual bond is real and physical.
It expresses itself ...................................

· Fr. Al's Plan for Reading the Bible Each Year
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/FrAlPlanReadingBible.asp

· The Challenge of Making Disciples in a "Culture of Death"
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ChallengeDisciples.asp

· Abortion and Your Taxes
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/AbortTax.asp

· Hope and Healing Through Aborted Children
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/HopeHealing.asp

Brochures by Topic
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/brochures.asp
________________________________________________

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

Dear brothers and sisters-in-Christ, :please pray for my
grandson Bobby, that his doctors appointment next week
is successful; that is that he can take an alternate
physical test in the U.S.Army (not to run with an injured
foot) but perhaps be able to take the test swimming or
cycling; that he can make the Army his career,and stay
secure in his job, for his wife and baby; I pray in Jesus
name, Amen
(very concerned grandmother, California, 1/24/2009 3:32:10 PM)

Pls pray for Stella Maris School KL camp for catholic
students from 30 Jan to 1 Feb 2009. May God touch the
lives of all participants that they grow closer to Him. May
God send His blessings and protection on all involved
with the camp. Thank you.
(A., Malaysia, 1/24/2009 10:35:01 AM)

Healing of throat and lower body healing for husband ted.
Blessing on our family and yours. tks. tess g.
(T.G., Michigan, 1/24/2009 8:16:01 AM)

Please help me God, to find a job with benefits, help my
son be responsible & heal our low self esteem. I am faithful
to you God, have done home care with no retirement
benefits like other people have with their jobs. Turning 50
years old I have little money, due to supporting an
ex-husband & son. I feel I should have a house &
something saved for retirement. I feel so poor. Thank you
Jesus & you all here for hearing me. God's peace to us all.
(Anonymous, 1/24/2009 7:26:57 AM)

For my brother who is unemployed from a few monthes
to recieve a job soon for my other brother to return to the
catholic church, for his acquital from a court case, for his
dilverance from a financial mess he is and this is a cause
of embarassment to our family for our family members to
not be in despair or loose our souls for gods blessings in
my job for a bright and blessed furture to all family
memebers for spiritual blessings and peace
(Anonymous, 1/24/2009 5:13:18 AM)

My friend Gertie who is 86, has fallen and is in a lot of pain.
She is in the hospital, but has no broken bones, Thank
God! Please pray for her to be relieved of pain and be able
to return home soon. Also continue prayers for Jack who
suffered brain damage and did not have a good prognosis.
Already the prayers are working; he was on life support,
then taken off, and then he sat up and wanted something
to eat! Please continue your prayers on his behalf. He is
26 and was injured when he lost control of a 4-wheeler.
(K.S., Terrytown, La, 1/24/2009 12:49:36 AM)

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
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Bible Telephone Line

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Cleveland 440 572-4366
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Listen Online!

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

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

Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth

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

POVERTY, JUSTICE AND PEACE

"TRAGIC SITUATIONS"

Poverty is often a contributory factor or a compounding
element in conflicts, including armed ones. In turn, these
conflicts fuel further tragic situations of poverty.

"MOST VULNERABLE VICTIMS"

When poverty strikes a family , the children prove to be
the most vulnerable victims: almost half of those living
in absolute poverty today are children.

CHILDREN, WOMEN AND MOTHERS

When the family is weakened, it is inevitably children
who suffer. If the dignity of women and mothers is not
protected, it is the children who are affected most.

(Source: Message for 2009 World Day of Peace, issued December 8, 2008)
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-01.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)
· "Living in Reality" (Apr 17-18)

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

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THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT GOD'S WORD - One Bread, One Body, 1/25/2009

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Poverty, Justice and Peace" at:
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Sunday, January 25, 2009, 3rd Sunday Ordinary Time

Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Psalm 25, Mark 1:14-20
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012509.shtml

THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT GOD'S WORD

"Jonah began...announcing, 'Forty days more and Nineveh shall be
destroyed,' when the people of Nineveh believed God." —Jonah 3:4-5

At Mass this morning, the gentleman seated directly in front of me paid no
attention whatsoever to the homily. He was fidgeting in his seat, looking
to the right and left as the pastor told several anecdotes related to
today's readings. Halfway through the homily, the pastor quoted from
memory Jesus' words in Matthew 25:35-45. At the very instant the pastor
quoted the first word of the Scripture passage, this man's head literally
whipped around ninety degrees, and he stared intently at the priest. He
listened in rapt attention, riveted and motionless for the remainder of
the homily. The change was striking to observe. There's something
different about the word of God.

Our words can be helpful to others, but it's God's word that has the power
to reach hearts. Jonah announced God's word and got immediate results (Jon
3:4ff). Jesus spoke God's "now-word" (see Ez 33:30) and got immediate
results; the disciples immediately abandoned their nets and followed Him
(Mk 1:17, 20).

God's word is living and effective, and pierces hearts (Heb 4:12). It
always does the job (Is 55:10-11). It reverberates inside people's hearts
and "produces of itself" results in the lives of men and women (Mk 4:28).
Revise your vocabulary. Speak God's word — for a change.

Prayer: Father, may people always take Your word as it truly is, the word
of God rather than the words of men (1 Thes 2:13). May I spend my life
spreading Your word.

Promise: "Come after Me; I will make you fishers of men." —Mk 1:17

Praise: Praise Jesus, the living Word (Heb 4:12). There is no chaining
You, Word of God (2 Tm 2:9). Alleluia!

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

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Saturday, January 24, 2009

JESUS AND FOOD - One Bread, One Body, 1/24/2009

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"Poverty, Justice and Peace" at:
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Saturday, January 24, 2009, St. Francis de Sales

Hebrews 9:2-3, 11-14, Psalm 47, Mark 3:20-21
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012409.shtml

JESUS AND FOOD

Jesus "returned to the house with them and again the crowd assembled,
making it impossible for them to get any food whatever." —Mark 3:20

Jesus was and is a sign of contradiction (Lk 2:34). As the Prophet, He did
and said things which were challenging, confrontational, even shocking.
Although He "ruffled a few feathers," people didn't get too upset over
these things. But when Jesus put Himself in such a crowded situation that
it was impossible even to get food to Him, that did it. Jesus' relatives
"came to take charge of Him, saying, 'He is out of His mind' " (Mk 3:21).

Throughout history, God's people seem to think about food differently than
He does. God had to show us what foods not to eat because we didn't know
any better (Lv 11:1ff). Kosher foods were only a small part of God's
revelation on food. The Lord revealed to us the necessity and privilege of
fasting (see Is 58:6ff). He even sent out the first missionaries with no
food (Lk 9:3).

Paul warned against those who "serve, not Christ our Lord, but their own
bellies" (Rm 16:18). "Such as these will end in disaster!" (Phil 3:19)
They are "enemies of the cross of Christ" (Phil 3:18). If Jesus is Lord of
our lives, He must be Lord of our food.

Prayer: Jesus, teach me to pray, love, live, and eat.

Promise: "How much more will the blood of Christ, Who through the eternal
Spirit offered Himself up unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from
dead works to worship the living God!" —Heb 9:14

Praise: St. Francis de Sales is recognized as patron saint of writers
because he wrote Introduction to a Devout Life four hundred years ago. He
trusted in God despite threats from both assassins and wild animals.

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Friday, January 23, 2009

"A MORE EXCELLENT MINISTRY" (Heb 8:6) - One Bread, One Body, 1/23/2009

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Friday, January 23, 2009

Hebrews 8:6-13, Psalm 85, Mark 3:13-19
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012309.shtml

"A MORE EXCELLENT MINISTRY" (Heb 8:6)

"Jesus has obtained a more excellent ministry now." —Hebrews 8:6

Many of you are involved in ministries. Some of you serve in ordained or
consecrated ministry as a priest, deacon, or a religious. You might serve
Jesus in a prison ministry, a healing ministry, a ministry of bringing the
Holy Eucharist to the homebound or sick, or a "ministry of the word" (Acts
6:4). Some of you serve God in a worship ministry, the ministry of
intercession, a ministry of justice or charity (Mt 25:44; 27:55, RNAB),
or the "ministry of reconciliation" all Christians share (2 Cor 5:18). "We
possess this ministry through God's mercy" (2 Cor 4:1).

Jesus has a "more excellent ministry" in store for you in 2009. He gives
you a new covenant and better promises (Heb 8:6). Give your life and your
ministry to Jesus right now — all of it. He will give you a new heart for
your ministry and a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit to minister in
power (see Ez 36:26). There's always more in Jesus — more power, more
love, more faith, more conversions, more excellence.

Let Jesus take your ministry to a new level of excellence in 2009. "Take
care to discharge the ministry you have received in the Lord" — in a more
excellent way (Col 4:17). "Fulfill your ministry" (2 Tm 4:5). "How much
greater will be the glory of the ministry of the Spirit?" (2 Cor 3:8)

Prayer: Jesus, send the Holy Spirit to equip me more powerfully for
ministry (Eph 4:11-12). Stir up in me the spiritual gift of ministry (Rm
12:7).

Promise: "I will forgive their evildoing, and their sins I will remember
no more." —Heb 8:12

Praise: Anna has been faithful to the ministry of bringing the Eucharist
to shut-ins for years.

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

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Thursday, January 22, 2009

Waiting for a Hand Out

> Source: Dr David Jeremiah
> Handshaking began among ancient German duelists as a signal of peaceful
> intentions. They couldn't draw swords with outstretched hands. An open
> hand signified friendship. A closed hand may signal a closed heart and a
> closed fist greed and selfishness.
>
> Let's make this the year of the open hand. Ask yourself, "What is in my
> hand that I am unwilling to give up?" Are your fingers open, stretched
> upward, releasing everything to God and ready to receive all He wants to
> give you? Or are you grasping onto life with a death-grip?
>
> A trapper devised a monkey-trap using a hollow gourd into which peanuts
> were poured through a small hole. The monkey would reach in and grab the
> peanuts, but the hole was too small to remove his closed hand. Unwilling
> to release his treasure, the monkey was caught.
>
> What are you tightly grasping . . . unwilling to give to the Lord? A
> relationship, possession, plan? An attitude of bitterness? Perhaps God
> isn't able to bless you because your hand isn't open to receive.
>
> Are you burdened by a difficult problem in your life? Open your hands and
> turn it over to the Lord. Give it to Him-all your fears, worries, anxiety.
> Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you.
>
> Give Him those sins that you can't seem to beat. Confess them, and ask Him
> to forgive and cleanse you. Give Him those precious things that you're
> clutching. An open hand signifies willingness-your willingness to part
> with your struggles, yourself, your sins.
>
> Generosity
> An open hand also signifies generosity. The wise woman in Proverbs 31
> "opens her hand to the poor" (RSV).
>
> One of my greatest childhood memories involves something my mother did
> every Saturday night. She got out all the bills and put them on the table.
> Then she opened the checkbook, and the first check she wrote was always to
> the church. I watched her week after week give the firstfruits to the
> Lord.
>
> Will your children have similar memories? Spiritual giving begins in the
> heart with "I want to." It's translated to the head where it says, "I
> will." Then it opens the hand and says, "I'm doing it." This
> open-handedness can begin with your very next act of obedience and
> service. Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind . . . not
> reluctantly . . . for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7
> Amplified Bible).
>
> Receptivity
> It's hard to receive a gift when your hands are closed. God's hands are
> open: "You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing."
> The most graphic example of open hands was Jesus on the crossbeam of
> Calvary to receive the nails that affixed Him there for us. It is His
> nature to give with open, nail-pierced hands.
>
> If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how
> much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who
> ask Him! Mathew 7:11
>
> What does God want to give you that He can't because your hands are
> closed? Open your hands so He can bless you. What could you be giving God?
> Open hands signify endless possibilities; closed hands equal no
> possibilities.
>
> Remember the woman whose hands-and heart-were ready to open themselves
> toward Jesus. And Jesus was ready to abundantly give. "Whoever drinks the
> water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall
> give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into
> everlasting life," He said (John 4).
>
> The woman replied, "Sir, give me this water."
>
> The Lord wants to give us more peace, love for Him and others, patience,
> joy, and self-control. He longs to give you a new start in humility,
> generosity, and receptivity. But He is waiting for a hand out. Just say,
> "Lord, I can't open my hands by myself, but with Your help I'm willing to
> stretch out my fingers toward You."
>
> Useful link: www.DavidJeremiah.org

ANNIVERSARY OF SHAME - One Bread, One Body, 1/22/2009

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Thursday, January 22, 2009, St. Vincent

Hebrews 7:25—8:6, Psalm 40, Mark 3:7-12
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012209.shtml

ANNIVERSARY OF SHAME

"Jesus has obtained a more excellent ministry now, just as He is Mediator
of a better covenant, founded on better promises." —Hebrews 8:6

Today marks the 36th anniversary of the tragic Supreme Court decision
legalizing abortion in the U.S. This decision can be categorized with the
laws legalizing slavery or the holocaust by the Third Reich. On this day a
law was enacted that turned our nation into a cemetery, that turned the
wombs of mothers into the tombs of babies.

However, we have hope. Jesus "is always able to save those who approach
God through Him, since He forever lives to make intercession for them"
(Heb 7:25). "The main point in what we are saying is this: we have such a
High Priest, Who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the
Majesty in heaven" (Heb 8:1). "Unclean spirits would catch sight of Him,
fling themselves down at His feet, and shout, 'You are the Son of God!' "
(Mk 3:11)

Because of Jesus, eternal High Priest (Heb 7:24), demon-Deliverer, Victor
over death, hope springs eternal. Because of Jesus, the final word will
not be "death" but "life" eternal, not "abortion" but "adoption" as God's
children, not "sin" but "salvation."

"At nightfall, weeping enters in, but with the dawn, rejoicing" (Ps 30:6).
The tomb is empty! The Lord is risen! We are God's people of life, even
abundant life (Jn 10:10). Choose life (Dt 30:19).

Prayer: Father, may I not promote abortions and the abortion mentality by
my apathy and selfishness.

Promise: "Because He had cured many, all who had afflictions kept pushing
toward Him to touch Him." —Mk 3:10

Praise: St. Vincent's unshakable faith under torture was instrumental in
converting his jailer.

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Wednesday, January 21, 2009

BIBLE-EXPLOSIONS - One Bread, One Body, 1/21/2009

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Wednesday, January 21, 2009, St. Agnes

Hebrews 7:1-3, 15-17, Psalm 110, Mark 3:1-6
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012109.shtml

BIBLE-EXPLOSIONS

"And Abraham apportioned to [Melchizedek] one tenth of all his booty. His
name means 'king of justice'; he was also king of Salem, that is, 'king of
peace.' " —Hebrews 7:2

The writer of Hebrews found a wealth of meaning in Genesis 14:17-20. The
Holy Spirit showed this writer the supreme significance of Melchizedek's
name, of the place where he was king, and of Abram's tithe to Melchizedek.
The Spirit even revealed the importance of what was not mentioned in
Genesis 14, that is, Melchizedek's ancestry. The Holy Spirit caused
Genesis 14 to explode for the writer of Hebrews.

The Lord wants to give you amazing revelations (see Jer 33:3). These
revelations will transform your life by giving you new insight into God's
plan of salvation. To receive these revelations, all you have to do is
obey God. He may tell you just to pray quietly. Like Daniel, you may be
called to plead "in earnest prayer, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes"
(Dn 9:3). You may need to walk and talk with Jesus for seven miles (Lk
24:13, 32), or spend an evening searching the Scriptures (see Lk 24:45).

The Spirit will teach you the meaning of the Bible in a life-changing way.
Pray for this to happen. Read the Bible daily. Obey the Lord. Soon the
Bible will "jump off the page" and your heart will burn as the Lord opens
the Scriptures to you.

Prayer: Father, may Your word penetrate, divide, and judge me (Heb 4:12).

Promise: Jesus "said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' The man did so
and his hand was perfectly restored." —Mk 3:5

Praise: St. Ambrose wrote that St. Agnes "went to the place of execution
more cheerfully than others to go their wedding."

(To grow in love of His word, read it daily. For encouragement, order our
tape 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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Tuesday, January 20, 2009

ANCHOR-MAN - One Bread, One Body, 1/20/2009

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Tuesday, January 20, 2009, Pope St. Fabian, St. Sebastian

Hebrews 6:10-20, Psalm 111, Mark 2:23-28
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/012009.shtml

ANCHOR-MAN

"Like a sure and firm anchor, that hope extends beyond the veil through
which Jesus, our Forerunner, has entered on our behalf." —Hebrews 6:19-20

Picture a sailing ship several miles offshore being battered by stormy,
raging seas and buffeted by high winds. The captain, prevented by the
storm from getting into the safe harbor, lowers the anchor to the sea
floor to prevent the wind and waves from sweeping the ship away. On the
ship, conditions are stormy and dangerous. At the bottom of the sea,
however, conditions are quiet. The anchor holds "sure and firm" (Heb
6:19). Though the ship is caught in a storm, it is "solidly set on" the
anchor which keeps the ship from being lost (Mt 7:25).

The author of Hebrews likens our hope in Jesus to the ship's "sure and
firm anchor" (Heb 6:19). When we have hope in Jesus, even though
circumstances in our life are stormy, our hope resembles an anchor that
extends from the turmoil of life on earth into the perfect calm of heaven
(Heb 6:19-20). Our interior life is one of peace, not chaos. We know we
won't be swept away by the turmoil of the world. Connected to the anchor
of hope, we live lives of "sure and firm" faith, hope, and love.

"Seize the hope which is placed before" you (Heb 6:18). Cling to Jesus and
never let go. Be "fully assured of that for which you hope" (Heb 6:11).
"This hope will not leave us disappointed" (Rm 5:5).

Prayer: Jesus, encourage those who are losing hope (Sir 17:19). Send your
Spirit on me so I can lead others to hope in You.

Promise: "The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath." —Mk 2:28

Praise: Pope St. Fabian was lauded by St. Cyprian as "an incomparable man,
the glory of whose death corresponded with the holiness of his life."

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

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Monday, January 19, 2009

ON TIME - One Bread, One Body, 1/19/2009

Read through the whole Bible in 2009. See our reading schedules at:
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and
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Monday, January 19, 2009

Hebrews 5:1-10, Psalm 110, Mark 2:18-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/011909.shtml

ON TIME

"People came to Jesus with the objection, 'Why do John's disciples and
those of the Pharisees fast while Yours do not?' " —Mark 2:18

The people in today's Gospel reading thought it was time to fast, although
it was time to feast. They had the right idea but the wrong time. You may
be doing something appropriate to the way things were twenty years ago but
inadequate for the present. For example, if you send your children to the
school you attended in your own youth, you may be making a big mistake.
That school had its time, but its time is not now, if you want your
children to be followers of Jesus.

If you talk to your children about sexual temptations as little as your
parents talked to you, you will find that what worked for your parents may
not work for you. Times have changed. If you pray with your children as
little as your parents prayed with you, your family may suffer much more
from its lack of prayer than the family you grew up in.

In our time, prayer has become more and more our only hope. "There is an
appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the
heavens" (Eccl 3:1). Are you on time or out of sync with God's present
unfolding of His plan of salvation?

Prayer: Jesus, be Lord of my time and timing.

Promise: "In the days when He was in the flesh, He offered prayers and
supplications with loud cries and tears to God, Who was able to save Him
from death, and He was heard because of His reverence." —Heb 5:7

Praise: From the Church-required minimum of fasting, Robert has now
practiced fasting two or three days a week and has seen an amazing growth
in his spiritual life.

(Order our tapes to help you increase your prayer life: "Daily Prayers "on
audio AV 62-3 or video V-62, "Liturgy of the Hours "on audio AV 89-3 or
video V-89, "Married Couples Praying Together", audio AV 116-1, video
V-116, "Family Prayer" on audio AV 59-1 or video V-59.)

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Sunday, January 18, 2009

PM eNewsletter Second Sunday in ordinary time

January 18th Second Sunday in ordinary time

Jesus, help us to truly realize, that in You, there is no
ordinary time.

Everyday, Lord, is a gift, and a call.

A gift, Lord, that says we are loved, and a call that
motivates us to help others.

Jesus, let us not feel ordinary, but feel as we really
are, special in You.

Lord Jesus, let us see that not only are we special,
but all people are special, and deserve our help and love.

Lord, let our light shine in the midst of all the turmoil,
and let us be examples of steady rock in trusting You.

Father, let our homes be filled with Your peace, and let
us truly be at peace in our hearts.

Jesus, let us help lift the darkness for those who have
no peace. Amen and Amen

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
________________________________________________

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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday SLEEPY HEAD
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/18/2009

"Samuel was sleeping in the temple of the Lord where the
ark of God was." —1 Samuel 3:3

Will you sleep through 2009 or will you wake up and answer
God's call? Many people, even religious people, will tell you
to "go back to sleep" (1 Sm 3:5, 6). Instead, you should turn
to God and say: "Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening" (1 Sm 3:9).

2009 can be the greatest year of your life. "Eye has not seen,
ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man
what God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Cor 2:9).
Some of those reading this will die and go to heaven this year.
Others may be just moments from hell unless they repent and
turn to Jesus. Some will make the most important decisions
and face the greatest challenges of their lives in 2009.

If we knew what will happen internationally in 2009, we would
immediately fall on our knees in prayer. "That is why we read:
'Awake, O sleeper, arise from the dead, and Christ will give
you light.' Keep careful watch over your conduct. Do not act
like fools, but like thoughtful men. Make the most of the
present opportunity, for these are evil days. Do not continue
in ignorance, but try to discern the will of the Lord" (Eph 5:14-17).

Monday ON TIME
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/19/2009

"People came to Jesus with the objection, 'Why do John's
disciples and those of the Pharisees fast while Yours do not?' " —Mark
2:18

Tuesday ANCHOR-MAN
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/20/2009

"Like a sure and firm anchor, that hope extends beyond the
veil through which Jesus, our Forerunner, has entered on
our behalf." —Hebrews 6:19-20

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
ttp://presentationministries.com/brochures/HowToRead.asp

· How to Stop Abortion: Claiming Our Victory Over Satan
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/StopAbortion.asp

· Sexual Sin, Abortion, and the Pill
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SexSinAbortionPill.asp

· Fr. Al's Plan for Reading the Bible Each Year
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/FrAlPlanReadingBible.asp

· The Challenge of Making Disciples in a "Culture of Death"
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ChallengeDisciples.asp

· Abortion and Your Taxes
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/AbortTax.asp

· Hope and Healing Through Aborted Children
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/HopeHealing.asp

Brochures by Topic
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/brochures.asp
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PM Internet Prayer Requests
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp

Please pray for Christopher's complete healing (mental,
physical, spiritual & emotional) and that his legal problems
will dissipate so that he can move forward in his recovery.
Thank you.
(J., 1/17/2009 4:47:08 PM)

Please God financial help to my family now. Help stop this
constant stress and pressure. May we be granted the
money to pay all our debts in full. Please God grant that
we can afford the holiday we have booked also. Please
bless my family and help with improvements in the
workplace for myself.
(N., uk, uk, United Kingdom, 1/17/2009 11:34:42 AM)

Praying for the site- and for deliverance angelic protection-
(Anonymous, 1/17/2009 11:09:57 AM)

Pray God to help mike in central california start a small
business and make a success of it quickly.
(M. C., central calif, calif, United States, 1/17/2009 10:44:23 AM)

May God rebuke Satan- May God help people and me
and Bridgett - i feel bothered- and oppressed.
(Anonymous, 1/17/2009 9:37:36 AM)

God help- and help Bridgett-please pray for her to make
the right decision- help purity chastity that would take
what- for whatever is needed
(Anonymous, 1/17/2009 7:02:46 AM)

Pls pray that my son Clarence manages to get a car and
also find a proper accomodation. Also that my Charmyne
finds a suitable partner soon and also a good job.
(C.DS., Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 1/17/2009 6:12:51 AM)

Joseph, my 30 yr old nephew (nicknamed Kiddo)
survived bone cancer 12 years ago. For the past months
kiddo has been experiencing respiratory ailment. Now,
the doctor confirmed a stage 4 aggressive Lung cancer
and is fast spreading on his lungs and to his heart.
Kiddo and his wife have 3 kids; 2 boys aged 8 and 4 and
a 1 year old girl. Please , please help us pray and beg
the Lord God for his mercy and healing graces. May God
in his infinite mercy once again lay His healing hands on
Kiddo as he did 12 years ago.
(G., Makati, Philippines, 1/17/2009 3:48:45 AM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
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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
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PM's Small Christian Community 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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Listen Online!

Inspired teaching on the daily Scripture readings of the
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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

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.

"AN UNSHAKABLE CONFIDENCE"

The intervention of the Virgin Mary in offering succor
throughout history ... does not cease to call forth, in the
people of God, an unshakable confidence in her. the
Memorare prayer expresses this sentiment very well.

(Source: Homily, Mass for the Sick, 9/15/08, Lourdes, France)
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2008-12.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
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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)
· "Living in Reality" (Apr 17-18)

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SLEEPY HEAD - One Bread, One Body, 1/18/2009

Sunday, January 18, 2009, 2nd Sunday Ordinary Time

1 Samuel 3:3-10, 19, 1 Corinthians 6:13-15, 17-20, Psalm 40, John 1:35-42
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/011809.shtml

SLEEPY HEAD

"Samuel was sleeping in the temple of the Lord where the ark of God
was." —1 Samuel 3:3

Will you sleep through 2009 or will you wake up and answer God's call?
Many people, even religious people, will tell you to "go back to sleep" (1
Sm 3:5, 6). Instead, you should turn to God and say: "Speak, Lord, for
Your servant is listening" (1 Sm 3:9).

2009 can be the greatest year of your life. "Eye has not seen, ear has not
heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those
who love Him" (1 Cor 2:9). Some of those reading this will die and go to
heaven this year. Others may be just moments from hell unless they repent
and turn to Jesus. Some will make the most important decisions and face
the greatest challenges of their lives in 2009.

If we knew what will happen internationally in 2009, we would immediately
fall on our knees in prayer. "That is why we read: 'Awake, O sleeper,
arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.' Keep careful watch
over your conduct. Do not act like fools, but like thoughtful men. Make
the most of the present opportunity, for these are evil days. Do not
continue in ignorance, but try to discern the will of the Lord" (Eph
5:14-17).

Prayer: Father, thank You for creating me to live for You in 2009.

Promise: "You must know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, Who
is within — the Spirit you have received from God. You are not your own.
You have been purchased, and at a price. So glorify God in your body." —1
Cor 6:19-20

Praise: Praise Jesus, Whose Resurrection has given us a "future full of
hope" (Jer 29:11).

(Listen to the Lord at the Paul Jansen Discipleship Center in the rural
setting of Adams County. Call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397 or check
www.presentationministries.com for schedule of events or to visit at
another time.)

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Saturday, January 17, 2009

TOTAL HEALING - One Bread, One Body, 1/17/2009

Saturday, January 17, 2009, St. Anthony

Hebrews 4:12-16, Psalm 19, Mark 2:13-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/011709.shtml

TOTAL HEALING

"People who are healthy do not need a doctor; sick people do." —Mark 2:17

Jesus came "to call sinners," and be a Doctor to the sick and the sin-sick
(Mk 2:17). He sympathizes with them in their weakness (Heb 4:15). He takes
onto Himself their afflictions, infirmities, and sufferings (Mt 8:17), and
gives them His health and freedom.

Jesus not only heals the physically suffering, but also restores the sick
and sin-sick to full status in society. He heals them societally. For
example, when Jesus publicly called attention to the woman healed by
touching the tassel of His cloak (Mk 5:30ff), He was making it clear to
the entire crowd that this woman, "unclean" after twelve years of
hemorrhaging, was no longer to be socially isolated as ritually contagious
(see Lv 15:25ff). Jesus did the same social restoration by commanding the
ten healed lepers to show themselves to the priests (Lk 17:14). By showing
themselves to the priests, who had the power to declare them officially
clean for social purposes, Jesus gave these lepers official social
restoration in a way that no member of Jewish society could question.

"We do not have a High Priest Who is unable to sympathize with our
weakness" (Heb 4:15). Praise Jesus, Who heals body, psyche, soul, mind,
spirit, and social status. Approach Doctor Jesus with great confidence
(Heb 4:16). There is nothing He can't restore.

Prayer: Doctor Jesus, I submit to Your expert diagnosis in every phase of
my life. Do in me whatever You must in order to do through me whatever You
will.

Promise: "God's word is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged
sword. It penetrates and divides soul and spirit." —Heb 4:12

Praise: St. Anthony removed himself from the world for God, and his
godliness drew the worldly to him.

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

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Friday, January 16, 2009

Shout Grace!

Source: Francis Frangipane

We sing Amazing Grace, but I don't think we realise how amazing grace
actually is. Grace is God's power, motivated by His mercy, working to fulfil
His compassion.

We are saved by grace, but what culminates in a "day of salvation"
experience is actually months and even years of God quietly, yet powerfully,
working in our hearts. Recall: Jesus said, "No one can come to Me, unless
the Father who sent Me draws him" (John 6:44a). Do you remember that drawing
power? Before we knew God, divine power was working invisibly within our
hearts, drawing and wooing us to Christ.

Yet let me take this miracle of grace further, for after Jesus spoke of the
Father's drawing power, He then said, "and I will raise him up on the last
day" (John 6:44b). This is the power and commitment of our Father's love:
from the days of our sin and rebellion even to the days long after we die,
grace continues working to unite our hearts with God's. From our utterly
helpless beginnings to our utterly helpless end, from being dead in sin to
being dead in the grave, grace carries us to the arms of God.

Unlocking the Power of Grace
"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved
us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together
with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and
seated us with Him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus, in order that,
in the ages to come, He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in
kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves,
it is the gift of God" (Eph. 2:4-8).

Paul says that grace saved us "through faith." Faith unlocks the power of
grace and releases it to function in our world-and faith itself is another
gift of God. The difference between both gifts is, the grace-gift must be
activated by the faith-gift. We must believe that God is "rich in mercy." We
must accept as true that God loves us with "great love." We must not doubt
He atoned for "our transgressions." We must be confident we are "alive
together with Christ."

Grace works through faith. Believing the words of grace unlocks the power of
grace; the power of grace to fully transform us comes through faith. As it
is written, "For of His fulness we have all received, and grace upon grace"
(John 1:16). The true stride of a Christian's walk is "grace upon grace."
The same grace that turned our hearts toward Christ continues to work in us,
transforming even our sufferings and trials into virtue and power. Are you
in a battle? Are you struggling with finances, health, righteousness or
relationships? Your grace-miracle has already been created. But you must
believe that not only has God created a grace-provision for you, but Christ
is motivated by love and actually desires to show you favour.

You may feel like a loser, a sinner, a person others routinely reject---and
perhaps you are! The purpose of redemption was so that, in the ages to come,
God might display through us "the surpassing riches of His grace." You may
be poor in this world, but you can become rich in the transforming grace of
God. Believe Him. A day will come in the future world of God when He will
point to you and I, once fallen and depraved, filthy and isolated creatures,
and display us before heaven and earth as radiant, transformed beings---a
glory to His workmanship and love. And it will come to pass because we
believed in the grace of God to change us.

Who cares what other people think of you? God says He loves you! Indeed, His
grace is working to set you free. God knows you have been struggling with
desperate issues; that's one reason why He has inspired this message. His
grace is reaching to you to deliver you. The means to your victory is not
more prayer or more Bible study, but faith-activated grace. Of course, I
strongly believe in both prayer and study, but the power to release each of
us is a free gift of grace. Don't postpone your breakthrough. Believe that
God's grace is here to release you!

What We Cannot Do On Our Own
We've been taught that grace is God's unmerited favour, which of course, it
is. Yet unmerited favour is only one aspect of grace. In reality, grace is
God's promise to do for us what we cannot do for ourselves.

The Bible says that "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as
righteousness" (Rom. 4:3). It doesn't mean that Abraham believe there was a
God. No. Demons believe in one God and tremble! When Abraham "believed God"
it meant that he believed what God had promised would come to pass. God
promised to do for Abraham what Abraham and Sarah could not fulfil on their
own. The Lord had promised Abraham he'd be a father of many nations. This is
the glory of God's grace: it accomplishes what is otherwise impossible for
us. You see, grace not only chooses me, saves me eternally and blankets my
life with mercy, but grace also works in me realities unattainable without
divine help.

Consider Zechariah and the story about Zerubbabel, who was governor of
Israel. The Jews had been held in Babylonian captivity for seventy years.
Now, they were being restored to Jerusalem. It was Zerubbabel's task to
oversee the restoration of the city. In the struggle of the battle,
weariness settled on the governor. So, the Lord gave Zechariah a promise for
Zerubbabel. He said,

"'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the Lord of hosts"
(Zech. 4:6).

God was saying, in effect, "You have laboured, your enemies are many and
they are strong, but this work I've set before you isn't about your
abilities; it's about what I can do working through you." Likewise, our
salvation isn't about our works or power. It's about believing in the Holy
Spirit's power and the grace of God.

Then the Lord gave Zerubbabel an important word. He said,

"What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain;
and he will bring forth the top stone with shouts of 'Grace, grace to it!"
(Zech. 4:7).

Zerubbabel had mountains in his life that were too much for him. He had a
task that was beyond his abilities. Yet God promised His Spirit would help,
and when it was done, multitudes would be shouting "Grace, grace" at the
finished work.

Listen, my friends, don't run from the mountains in your life; face them
with faith---and then shout "Grace, grace" to them. Let God make your
mountains into "a plain."

Let's not mutter an unbelieving whisper about grace, but shout it out loud.
It doesn't say, think about grace, but release your faith and shout "Grace,
grace!" God's unmerited favour has been poured out upon you; now speak to
that mountain of discouragement, sickness or financial need - GRACE, GRACE!

Blessed God, You have drawn me to Yourself and have sheltered my life in the
impenetrable stronghold of Your grace. Forgive me for drifting back into
trusting in my works or abilities. Lord, I believe in Your grace! I shout
"Grace, grace!" to the mountains that stand before me! In Jesus' name!

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