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

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

GODLY SADNESS - One Bread, One Body, 9/30/2009

We hope the LORD has blessed you through our website and e-mail lists.
Please pray about making a donation to this ministry. You can donate
online at:
https://www.presentationministries.com/donate/donate.asp?applyTo=in
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday, September 30, 2009, St. Jerome

Nehemiah 2:1-8, Psalm 137:1-6, Luke 9:57-62
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/093009.shtml

GODLY SADNESS

"The king asked me, 'Why do you look sad?' " —Nehemiah 2:2

Nehemiah was sad because the gates of Jerusalem had been in ruins for well
over a century. Francis of Assisi was sad because the Church had been in
ruins for hundreds of years. The sadness of both of these people led to t
he rebuilding of the people of God, the Church.

The only people who will rebuild the Church are those who love the Church
even when she is so disfigured, sinful, and unlovable. The only people who
will rebuild the Church are those who love the Church enough to be sad
about its condition. "Indeed, sorrow for God's sake produces a repentance
without regrets, leading to salvation, whereas worldly sorrow brings
death. Just look at the fruit of this sorrow which stems from God. What a
measure of holy zeal it has brought you" (2 Cor 7:10-11). When our love
for the Church becomes so deep that we are moved to sadness by the stones
and dust of its ruins, then the Lord will arise and have mercy on us (Ps
102:14-15; see also Ez 9:4). "The appointed time" for rebuilding the
Church has then come.

Pray for love deep enough to be sad not for yourself, but for the Church.
We need the sadness of love to begin the rebuilding of the Church.

Prayer: Father, give me a godly sadness because of a divine love.

Promise: "Whoever puts his hand to the plow but keeps looking back is
unfit for the reign of God." —Lk 9:62

Praise: St. Jerome inspired many with his words, "Ignorance of the
Scriptures is ignorance of Christ" (Catechism, 133).

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

Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from
August 1, 2009 through September 30, 2009
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, February 11, 2009

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.

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

A WINNING TEAM - One Bread, One Body, 9/29/2009

Read the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth entitled
"St. John Vianney" 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.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday, September 29, 2009, Sts. Michael,, Gabriel, & Raphael

Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 or, Revelation 12:7-12, Psalm 138:1-5, John 1:47-51
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092909.shtml

A WINNING TEAM

"Michael and his angels battled against the dragon...Satan, the seducer of
the whole world, was driven out." —Revelation 12:7, 9

Michael the archangel and his angels battle Satan and his demons. They
overpower him and drive him away (Rv 12:7-9). Michael stands as a bulwark
against Satan, a reinforced wall to block his plans (Dn 10:21—11:1, NAB).
Raphael also defeats demons, overpowering and binding them (Tb 8:3).

Jesus, Whose outpoured blood defeats Satan (Rv 12:11), has given the
Church power to "overcome all demons" (Lk 9:1). We members of the Church
do our part by our testimony to Jesus (Rv 12:11), prayer, fasting (Mt
17:21, NAB), our steadfast refusal to yield to Satan (Jas 4:7), obedience
(Rm 16:19-20), and our praises, which Satan and his demons cannot stomach.

If Satan has been defeated, why must we still fight him? He has lost the
war, but on his way to hell, is trying to exact more casualties upon the
kingdom of God. He is a sore loser, and "his fury knows no limits, for he
knows his time is short" (Rv 12:12). Therefore, if we "relax our efforts"
in finishing the fight (cf Gal 6:9), we might suffer some casualties
ourselves. Because God has used angels to successfully fight Satan, and
because the Lord hasn't changed His battle plan (see Heb 13:8), we need
the angels (cf 1 Cor 12:18, 21). We must regularly involve the angels,
especially the archangels, in spiritual warfare. St. Michael the
Archangel, pray for us.

Prayer: Father, may I wield every weapon You give me to advance Your
kingdom on earth.

Promise: "When I called, You answered me; You built up strength within
me." —Ps 138:3

Praise: "Raphael pursued [the demon] there and bound him hand and foot"
(Tb 8:3).

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

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Monday, September 28, 2009

THE GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE - One Bread, One Body, 9/28/2009

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

Monday, September 28, 2009, St. Wenceslaus, St. Lawrence Ruiz & Companions

Zechariah 8:1-8, Psalm 102:16-21, 29, 22-23, Luke 9:46-50
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092809.shtml

THE GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE

"Even if this should seem impossible in the eyes of the remnant of this
people, shall it in those days be impossible in My eyes also, says the
Lord of hosts?" —Zechariah 8:6

It seemed impossible that the Israelite nation would ever be restored, but
"nothing is impossible with God" (Lk 1:37). Think of the most impossible
situation in your life — a marriage that seems irreconcilable, a terminal
illness, long-term compulsive behavior, a dead parish, mental illness,
family breakdown, etc. What man considers impossible, the Lord sees as
opportunities to manifest His almighty power.

To strengthen your faith in the God of the impossible:
* Read and pray God's word. "Faith comes through hearing, and hearing
by God's word" (Rm 10:17, our transl.).
* Ask others, including Saint Jude, to pray for you to see the most
impossible situations in your life the way God sees them.
* Go to Confession and repent of giving in to doubt.
* Praise and thank the Lord for doing the impossible, even before He
does it.
* Share your faith in the God of the impossible by telling others about
Him.

God will do more than we can ever ask for or imagine (Eph 3:20). He will
do the impossible.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the hope that "will not leave us
disappointed" (Rm 5:5).

Promise: "Whoever welcomes this little child on My account welcomes Me,
and whoever welcomes Me welcomes Him Who sent Me; for the least one among
you is the greatest." —Lk 9:48

Praise: St. Lawrence Ruiz, a Filipino layman, was martyred in Nagasaki,
Japan in 1637. He witnessed to his executioners: "I am a Christian. I
shall die for God, and for Him I would give many thousands of lives. So do
with me what you please."

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Sunday, September 27, 2009

PM eNewsletter 26th Sunday in ordinary time

September 27th 26th Sunday in ordinary time.

This week Jesus, Your church celebrates three
great archangels, St. Michael, St. Gabriel and St. Raphael.

These three angels are shining examples of how You
love us, and protect us, by sending them to be Your
messengers to us, and with all of our own guardian
angels to be with us everyday.

Jesus, Your plan of loving us is so amazing that we
can't really understand it or truly appreciate it.

But that doesn't stop You from giving us help that we
need to get through this life, so that someday we will
come home and spend eternity with you.

Thank You for loving 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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp
________________________________________________

One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday JEALOUS CHRISTIANS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/27/2009

"Are you jealous?" —Numbers 11:29

People who have been given a new life in Jesus and are
filled with the Spirit seem especially tempted to spiritual
jealousy. They're jealous of Eldad and Medad prophesying
(Nm 11:29), of Moses leading (Nm 12:1), of a stranger
expelling demons (Mk 9:38), or of John and James trying
to get a "spiritual" promotion (Mt 20:24).

The Lord does not tolerate spiritual jealousy. Miriam
became a snow-white leper after her outbreak of jealousy
against Moses (Nm 12:10). Jesus said that being drowned
or maimed is preferable to falling into the sin of spiritual
jealousy (Mk 9:42-47). The first murder was committed
because of spiritual jealousy. Cain was jealous that Abel's
offering was accepted by God and his own wasn't (Gn 4:4-5).
Jesus was crucified because of the jealousy of the religious
leaders (Mt 27:18). The Jews of Antioch in Pisidia
persecuted Paul and Barnabas because of jealousy (Acts 13:45).

Some of history's worst sins can be attributed to spiritual
jealousy. Resist any temptations to jealousy, and repent of
any sins of jealousy.

Monday THE GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/28/2009

"Even if this should seem impossible in the eyes of the
remnant of this people, shall it in those days be impossible
in My eyes also, says the Lord of hosts?" —Zechariah 8:6

Tuesday A WINNING TEAM
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/29/2009

"Michael and his angels battled against the dragon...Satan,
the seducer of the whole world, was driven out." —Revelation 12:7, 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
________________________________________________

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

· Celebrating Mass in the Power of the Holy Spirit
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CelebratingMass.asp

· Clarity, Certainty, and Commitment
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ClarityCertainty.asp

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

"Truly you have formed my inmost being; you
knit me in my mother's womb." —Psalm 139:13

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

I have been praying publicly before abortion chambers for over
25 years and have been privileged to see babies saved through
our prayers. In these years, I have not had the slightest regret
about my public witness for life. I am more convinced than ever
of the power and fruitfulness of publicly waged spiritual warfare.
Millions of babies have been ...............................

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

· The Book on Forgiveness
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/BookOnForgiveness.asp

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

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

I ask for prayer for a good idea to make a product for sale.
Lord I'm at the end of my rope, I need to be free from the
stress of debt and we need a good idea.
Lord help us... Thank you!
(E.McE., New York, NY, United States, 9/26/2009 1:17:02 PM)

Dear Jesus, when I WAS YOUNG, I used to love making
people smile, feel good about themselves, or just do them
a favor asking nothing in return. Now, I am older and
melancholy, full of depression,past hurts and anxiety and
feel myself turning inward. Please help me to be that child
again and Spend my life trying to make others feel good
about themselves. It seems like I was so much happier;
giving and not receiving! Please heal whatever is standing
in the way of being this way again! Help me to serve you
better!
(T.J., New York, NY, United States, 9/26/2009 11:16:36 AM)

Day 4 - Pray for the 40 Days for Life campaign which began
on the Feast day of St. Padre Pio. By thy Holy and
Immaculate Conception, Oh Mary, deliver us from evil.
(K., Texas, 9/26/2009 10:53:13 AM)

My friend just called and said her grandfather was
admitted to the hospital for pnemonia and other medical
issues he is 82 years old and has had host of medical
problems. Please pray that the lord would touch and
heal his body of all of his infirmaties and that he would
be strengthened. Please pray that he and his family
would know Jesus as their personal saviour. May all
that see this healing praise God and give him the glory.
(A.H., New York, NY, United States, 9/26/2009 9:25:42 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 are The Acts of the Apostles Part 1 thru 4, 1
Corinthians Part 1 & 2, and Romans Parts 1-3. Also available,
many MP3 formatted Audio tapes of most epistles in the bible
and numerous 15 minute Bible studies by Fr. Al Lauer.

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

** Please check these listings as a number of changes have been made.**

Atlanta 770 521-8570
Cincinnati 859 291-7000
Cleveland 440 572-4366
Columbus 614 470-0020
Detroit 734 720-1852
Indianapolis 317 767-5413
Long Island 631 778-5015
Los Angeles 213 455-0872
Miami 305 356-7638
________________________________________________

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
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-08.asp?navlink=latest

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

GRANDPARENTS: A TREASURE

WITNESSES FOR LIFE

..Pray for grandparents, who, in the family, are the
depositories and often witnesses of the fundamental
values of life.

"EVEN MORE IMPORTANT"

The educational task of grandparents is always very
important, and it becomes even more so when, for
various reasons, the parents are unable to provide their
children with an adequate presence while they are growing up.

"A GREAT TREASURE"

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

(Sources: Angelus, 7/26/09; Address to Pontifical
Council for the Family, 4/5/08)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-08.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
________________________________________________

2009 RETREATS
Online Registration

2009 RETREATS

· Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
· The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)
· Discipleship, Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary (Oct 9-11)

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

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

Visit Presentation Ministries at http://www.presentationministries.com

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

JEALOUS CHRISTIANS - One Bread, One Body, 9/27/2009

Try our Daily Bread radio program and listen to Fr. Lauer teach on the
Mass readings for the day. You can listen online, download in MP3 format
or subscribe to the podcast.

http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday, September 27, 2009, 26th Sunday Ordinary Time

Numbers 11:25-29, James 5:1-6, Psalm 19:8, 10, 12-14, Mark 9:38-43, 45,
47-48
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092709.shtml

JEALOUS CHRISTIANS

"Are you jealous?" —Numbers 11:29

People who have been given a new life in Jesus and are filled with the
Spirit seem especially tempted to spiritual jealousy. They're jealous of
Eldad and Medad prophesying (Nm 11:29), of Moses leading (Nm 12:1), of a
stranger expelling demons (Mk 9:38), or of John and James trying to get a
"spiritual" promotion (Mt 20:24).

The Lord does not tolerate spiritual jealousy. Miriam became a snow-white
leper after her outbreak of jealousy against Moses (Nm 12:10). Jesus said
that being drowned or maimed is preferable to falling into the sin of
spiritual jealousy (Mk 9:42-47). The first murder was committed because of
spiritual jealousy. Cain was jealous that Abel's offering was accepted by
God and his own wasn't (Gn 4:4-5). Jesus was crucified because of the
jealousy of the religious leaders (Mt 27:18). The Jews of Antioch in
Pisidia persecuted Paul and Barnabas because of jealousy (Acts 13:45).

Some of history's worst sins can be attributed to spiritual jealousy.
Resist any temptations to jealousy, and repent of any sins of jealousy.

Prayer: Father, may I rejoice that others are more gifted and more honored
than I am.

Promise: "Any man who gives you a drink of water because you belong to
Christ will not, I assure you, go without his reward." —Mk 9:41

Praise: Praise You, Jesus, the risen Lord! You are "merciful and
gracious...slow to anger and abounding in kindness" (Ps 103:8).

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Jealousy" on audio AV 53-3 or
video V-53.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Saturday, September 26, 2009

GOD'S INSURANCE POLICIES - One Bread, One Body, 9/26/2009

Try our Daily Bread radio program and listen to Fr. Lauer teach on the
Mass readings for the day. You can listen online, download in MP3 format
or subscribe to the podcast.

http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday, September 26, 2009, Sts. Cosmas & Damian

Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15, Jeremiah 31:10-13, Luke 9:43-45
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092609.shtml

GOD'S INSURANCE POLICIES

"I will be for her an encircling wall of fire, says the Lord, and I will
be the glory in her midst." —Zechariah 2:9

Zechariah prophesied that God's people would live "as though in open
country" (Zec 2:8). In other words, they would not need a wall, army, or
other means of protection. The Lord Himself would be "an encircling wall
of fire" to protect them (Zec 2:9).

This prophecy has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ. He is our Rock,
Fortress, and Deliverer (Ps 18:3). We need no longer defend or insure
ourselves. Jesus is all the firepower, all the insurance we'll ever need.

Most Christians don't believe the Lord is that real. Some say the Lord
protects us through State Farm, Prudential, the CIA, and the Pentagon. Is
this the Lord's idea, or a theology based on our lack of faith? Did Jesus
ever say He wanted to use a corporation to insure us or an army to protect
us? Didn't the Lord actually intend to be "an encircling wall of fire"?

We should always be motivated by faith and not by fear. Let's not conform
ourselves to the world (Rm 12:2), but be transformed by the Spirit.

Prayer: Father, give me a freedom, fearlessness, and boldness I've never
had before.

Promise: "He Who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, He guards
them as a shepherd his flock." —Jer 31:10

Praise: Sts. Cosmas & Damian, twin brothers, gave themselves and
ultimately their lives in loving submission to their God.

(For a related teaching, order our tape on "Holy Spirit Our Hope "on audio
AV 81-3 or video V-81.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Friday, September 25, 2009

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS - One Bread, One Body, 9/25/2009

Try our Daily Bread radio program and listen to Fr. Lauer teach on the
Mass readings for the day. You can listen online, download in MP3 format
or subscribe to the podcast.

http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Friday, September 25, 2009

Haggai 1:15—2:9, Psalm 43:1-4, Luke 9:18-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092509.shtml

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

"Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the
Lord of hosts." —Haggai 2:9

After the temple had been destroyed for sixty-seven years, the Israelites
returned from exile. Following seventeen more years of seeing the temple
lie in ruins, the Lord raised up the prophets Haggai and Zechariah (see
Zec 6:11-12) to command Zerubbabel the governor, Joshua the high priest,
and the remnant of the people to get to work (Hg 2:1-2).

Four groups of people were necessary for the rebuilding of the Temple. If
we are to rebuild the Church, we will need these same four groups of
workers. First, we need prophets to tell us what God is saying. Without
them, we don't know what work to do or when to do it. "Without prophecy
the people become demoralized" (Prv 29:18). After the prophets tell us
what God wants, we need civil officials — not to play party politics, but
to come under Jesus' Lordship. Next, we need the clergy. We need priests
who will rebuild the Church by fearlessly proclaiming our need for
repentance and salvation. Finally, we need the "remnant of the people" to
do the work of rebuilding the Church. The remnant is not just the
"leftovers," the few remaining people in a time of eroded faith. They are
prophetic, called by God, uncompromised with the world, and totally
committed to the Lord.

With two prophets, one or two righteous politicians and priests, and
several members of the remnant, we have the workers needed to rebuild the
Church.

Prayer: Father, make me another St. Francis of Assisi.

Promise: "Send forth your light and your fidelity; they shall lead me on
and bring me to your holy mountain." —Ps 43:3

Praise: Marian builds up the Church by helping others develop their
spiritual gifts and encouraging others to attend daily Mass.

(There is still time to register for our October series of retreats,
"Building Christian Community", "Bible Time Line", and "Disciple""ship,
Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary", Oct 2-11. Come to some or all of
these retreats. Call 937-587-5464.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Thursday, September 24, 2009

LIFE- AND DEATH-STYLE - One Bread, One Body, 9/24/2009

Check out the PM retreat schedule and pray about coming to a retreat. Our
next series of retreats is:

Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)
Discipleship, Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary (Oct 9-11)

http://www.presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Haggai 1:1-8, Psalm 149:1-6, 9, Luke 9:7-9
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092409.shtml

LIFE- AND DEATH-STYLE

"Is it time for you to dwell in your own paneled houses, while this house
lies in ruins?" —Haggai 1:4

The prophet Haggai is upset because the people are more concerned about
their lifestyle than about the house of God. How much money have you put
into your house, compared to God's house? Would you be willing to live in
an apartment in a poor section of town to give more to the kingdom of God?
Are you more concerned about evangelizing than modernizing? Would you cut
back on your food budget to increase your giving to the poor and starving?

Our lifestyle is a false god, and our pleasure-seeking is idol worship.
When we seek first God's kingdom, everything else will be given to us (Mt
6:33). If we seek everything else, we are unfit for the kingdom of God (Lk
9:62). The Lord alone is God. He permits no other gods besides Him (Ex
20:2-3). We must repent, confess our sins, and build His kingdom on earth
as it is in heaven (Mt 6:10). The Lord is merciful; He will forgive if we
acknowledge the sin of living the typical American lifestyle.

Prayer: Jesus, may I make the choices You made concerning lifestyle.

Promise: "For the Lord loves His people, and He adorns the lowly with
victory." —Ps 149:4

Praise: The Smiths gave up their house in order to be ministers of charity
by living in community with others.

(To change your lifestyle, read the Bible daily. For encouragement, order
any or all of these audio or video tapes: "Ignorance of Scriptures is
Ignorance of Christ", AV 82-1, V-82, "How to Pray the Bible" on audio AV
82-3 or on video V-82, "How to Read the Bible" on audio AV 46-3 or on
video V-46, "Principles of Bible Interpretation", audio AV 79-1, video
V-79, "Biblical Counseling", audio AV 13A-1, AV 13A-3, AV 13B-3 or on
video starting with V-13A.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

THE "THING" - One Bread, One Body, 9/23/2009

Check out the PM retreat schedule and pray about coming to a retreat. Our
next series of retreats is:

Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)
Discipleship, Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary (Oct 9-11)

http://www.presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday, September 23, 2009, St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Ezra 9:5-9, Tobit 13:2-4, 7-8, Luke 9:1-6
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092309.shtml

THE "THING"

"My God, I am too ashamed and confounded to raise my face to You, O my
God, for our wicked deeds are heaped up above our heads and our guilt
reaches up to heaven." —Ezra 9:6

When Ezra heard "this thing," he tore his cloak and mantle, plucked hair
from his "head and beard, and sat there stupefied" (Ezra 9:3). Ezra fell
on his knees and stretched out his hands to the Lord. Why was Ezra
traumatized? It was because both Israelite laymen and priests married
non-Israelite wives. Ezra knew they were doomed by entering into "mixed
marriages."

If Ezra were alive today, he would probably immediately drop dead from so
many "mixed marriages." Although the couple has obvious problems when a
Catholic and Protestant marry, that marriage is not as "mixed" or as mixed
up as when a Christian marries a nonbeliever or a non-practicing
Christian, even if the spouse is technically in the same denomination.

Even when a practicing Catholic marries a non-practicing Catholic, we have
reason to act like Ezra. Something is very wrong. How could someone in
love with Jesus marry someone not in love with Jesus! If a Christian can't
share Christ with his or her spouse, why get married? We must have a
committed relationship with the Bridegroom Jesus (see Mk 2:19) before
having a relationship with any other bride or groom.

Prayer: Father, may every married person be married to Your Son.

Promise: "Jesus now called the Twelve together and gave them power and
authority to overcome all demons and to cure diseases." —Lk 9:1

Praise: St. Pio overcame demons and cured diseases by the power of God.

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

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

BODY BUILDERS - One Bread, One Body, 9/22/2009

Check out the PM retreat schedule and pray about coming to a retreat. Our
next series of retreats is:

Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)
Discipleship, Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary (Oct 9-11)

http://www.presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Ezra 6:7-8, 12, 14-20, Psalm 122:1-5, Luke 8:19-21
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092209.shtml

BODY BUILDERS

"The elders of the Jews continued to make progress in the building." —Ezra
6:14

Jesus is still building His Church (Mt 16:18). We are the Church, and are
therefore under construction. We "are living stones, built as an edifice
of spirit" (1 Pt 2:5). We "form a building which rises on the foundation
of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the Capstone"
(Eph 2:20). "In Him [we] are being built into this temple, to become a
dwelling place for God in the Spirit" (Eph 2:22). We are not only the
building under construction but also co-builders with the Lord (1 Cor
3:9).

What progress have we made in 2009 in building the Church? Are more people
on the Rock-foundation of Jesus due to our efforts this year? Has the
Lord's Church been strengthened because we have helped others grow in the
Spirit? During 2009 have we built the Church both higher and wider? Is the
Church more focused on the Lord with greater impact on the world? Through
our life in Christ, is the kingdom coming on earth as it already is in
heaven? (Mt 6:10)

Many Christians are not being built. Worse still, many are not committed
to the building of God's Church. Will you obey the Lord, take on His yoke
(Mt 11:29), do His thing, adopt His priorities, and build the Church?

Prayer: Jesus, may I want what You want as much as You want it. May I have
Your mind (1 Cor 2:16).

Promise: "My mother and My brothers are those who hear the word of God and
act upon it." —Lk 8:21

Praise: Theresa builds up the Body of Christ by home-schooling her
children and raising them as young Christian warriors to live for God.

(For a related teaching, order our tape "The Church in God's Plan" on
audio AV 67-3 or video V-67.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Monday, September 21, 2009

WALKING OFF THE JOB - One Bread, One Body, 9/21/2009

Check out the PM retreat schedule and pray about coming to a retreat. Our
next series of retreats is:

Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)
Discipleship, Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary (Oct 9-11)

http://www.presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Monday, September 21, 2009, St. Matthew

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13, Psalm 19:2-5, Matthew 9:9-13
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092109.shtml

WALKING OFF THE JOB

"I plead with you, then, as a prisoner for the Lord, to live a life worthy
of the calling you have received." —Ephesians 4:1

Are you on a job that's not just a waste of time but even immoral? You may
not be a pimp or a Mafia member, but does what you produce, package, or
sell distract or turn people from Christ? Life is too short to waste it
working for perishable food (see Jn 6:27). Eternity is too long to live
for self rather than for Christ. Jesus did not die on the cross for you to
spend your time doing something other than His will. He has a precious
plan for your life and work. Don't accept anything less than God's best.
Look at what the Lord did with Matthew's life. He called him to compose a
Gospel of the New Testament.

All this does not apply to people who merely don't like their jobs, but
only to those whose work is immoral, in that it doesn't serve God's
interests. Most people are called to stay on their jobs, even if they
don't like them. Yet there are plenty of people, like Matthew, who need to
walk away from their jobs.

Ask yourself: is Jesus entering my place of employment, looking me right
in the eyes, and saying to me what He said to Matthew: "Follow Me"? (Mt
9:9) If so, may you do the same thing Matthew did: get up and follow
Jesus.

Prayer: Jesus, I accept You as Lord of my life and my job.

Promise: "People who are in good health do not need a doctor; sick people
do." —Mt 9:12

Praise: St. Matthew gave up his acquired earthly treasure to hold in his
heart the Treasure of treasures. He expressed his faith in Jesus by
humbling himself to live in daily community with eleven other men whom he
knew had despised him.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Job Performance for Jesus "or
on audio AV 43-3 or video V-43.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Sunday, September 20, 2009

PM eNewsletter 25th Sunday in ordinary time

September 20th 25th Sunday in ordinary time.

This week, oh! Christ, Your church celebrates the feast of
an apostle who lived the good life till You called him.

Then he lived the great life of knowing You.

St. Matthew was a tax collector and enjoyed the
pleasure of a big house, and lots of friends.

But, You, Jesus called him and he gave it all away.

Please Lord, give us the true understanding, that only
in knowing You, will we ever find the real meaning of life.

Let us see that all the things of this world will pass
away, but being with You will never pass away.

You Christ are the way and truth of life.

Thank You for your love. 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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp
________________________________________________

One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday HATRED FOR CHRISTIANS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/20/2009

"What you desire you do not obtain, and so you resort
to murder." —James 4:2

In the beginning of the book of Wisdom, a group of people
decided to beset, revile, and torture a just man (Wis 2:12, 19).
They planned to "condemn him to a shameful death" (Wis 2:20).
This group opposing the just man believed there was no life
after death, "for haphazard were we born, and hereafter we
shall be as though we had not been" (Wis 2:2). Therefore,
they decided to "eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!" (1 Cor 15:32)

Today, we call this group of people "secular humanists."
They believe man is the measure of all things and this world
is all we should be concerned about. Secular humanists like
to come across as tolerant. They espouse the philosophy
that everybody should do their own thing. They accept and
even encourage all kinds of deviant behavior, especially
sexual perversions.

However, Christians are the one exemption to the secular
humanists' policy of tolerance. They become militantly
opposed to any expressions of Christian faith. They believe
in free speech for everyone but Christians. They revile and
torture Christians and conspire to condemn Christianity to
a shameful death. However, in doing this, they prove
Christianity true and themselves wrong, as Christianity
withstands their attempts to destroy it.

Monday WALKING OFF THE JOB
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/21/2009

"I plead with you, then, as a prisoner for the Lord, to live
a life worthy of the calling you have received." —Ephesians 4:1

Tuesday BODY BUILDERS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/22/2009

"The elders of the Jews continued to make progress in
the building." —Ezra 6:14

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

· Seek Prophecy
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SeekProphecy.asp

"Yes, even on My servants and handmaids I will pour out
a portion of My Spirit in those days, and they shall
prophesy." —Acts 2:18; Joel 3:1

The Lord commands us to set our "hearts on spiritual gifts
— above all, the gift of prophecy" (1 Cor 14:1). We may or
may not have the gift of prophecy but we are obligated to
seek it eagerly. Prophecy is part of the foundation of the
Church (Eph 2:20). He or she "who prophesies builds up
the Church" (1 Cor 14:4). A prophet speaks ..................

· Paying and Receiving Interest
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/PayReceiv.asp

· Obedience School
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ObSchool.asp

· The Secret of Fasting
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SecretFasting.asp

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

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

I pray for my unborn child. Please God cure me from my
pregnancy complication and let my baby be born well and
healthy. Please give me strength to carry my baby and
then bring him up as good catholic. Holy Mary, Mother of
God please help me to take good care of my baby and
keep to catholic teachings. Please pray for David to
accept baby and be a father to him. Please hear and
answer my prayers.
(M., Peterborough, United Kingdom, 9/19/2009 2:55:56 PM)

I humbly pray for my son's conversion away from
homosexuality; for him to know, believe and abide in
God's perfect Divine Will for him regarding human
sexuality. In Jesus' name, I pray.
(rcp, United States, 9/19/2009 2:38:16 PM)

Dear God of EVERYTHING, All things are Possible to you.
I ask in the Holy Name of Jesus Christ YOUR only
Begotten Son to Grant me Wisdom, Understanding, and
Above All the Fear of the LORD. Holy Spirit be in ME.
(K.P., New York, NY, United States, 9/19/2009 12:52:12 PM)

Please pray for me to find patients for November boards
next week, to prepare well for November boards, to pass
November boards, for financial assistance, to find jobs
for now and after boards that will pay for my expenses,
for brad, for my family, and for all those in need of prayer,
especially the souls in purgatory.
(A., Gainesville, FL, United States, 9/19/2009 11:04:04 AM)

I pray the results of my upcoming bloodwork will be
totally and completely normal and healthy in all ways
and I will not have to go on any medication.
(SL, VA, 9/19/2009 10:07:16 AM)

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

MP3 4 You

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

** Please check these listings as a number of changes have been made.**

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
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-08.asp?navlink=latest

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

GRANDPARENTS: A TREASURE

"JOIN FORCES"

It is necessary to join forces to defeat together
all forms of marginalization, for it is not only they
— grandfathers, grandmothers, senior citizens
— who are being injured by the individualistic
mindset, but everyone. If grandparents, as is often
said and on many sides, are a precious resource,
it is necessary to put into practice coherent
choices that allow them to be better valued.

"NOURISH FAITH AND HOPE"

May the Virgin Mary ... help them [grandparents]
always to nourish their faith and hope at the
sources of the Word of God.

(Sources: Angelus, 7/26/09; Address to Pontifical
Council for the Family, 4/5/08)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-07.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
________________________________________________

2009 RETREATS
Online Registration

2009 RETREATS

· Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
· The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)
· Discipleship, Leadership, Redemptive Suffering & Mary (Oct 9-11)

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

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

Visit Presentation Ministries at http://www.presentationministries.com

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

HATRED FOR CHRISTIANS - One Bread, One Body, 9/20/2009

Sunday, September 20, 2009, 25th Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 2:12, 17-20, James 3:16—4:3, Psalm 54:3-6, 8, Mark 9:30-37
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092009.shtml

HATRED FOR CHRISTIANS

"What you desire you do not obtain, and so you resort to murder." —James
4:2

In the beginning of the book of Wisdom, a group of people decided to
beset, revile, and torture a just man (Wis 2:12, 19). They planned to
"condemn him to a shameful death" (Wis 2:20). This group opposing the just
man believed there was no life after death, "for haphazard were we born,
and hereafter we shall be as though we had not been" (Wis 2:2). Therefore,
they decided to "eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!" (1 Cor 15:32)

Today, we call this group of people "secular humanists." They believe man
is the measure of all things and this world is all we should be concerned
about. Secular humanists like to come across as tolerant. They espouse the
philosophy that everybody should do their own thing. They accept and even
encourage all kinds of deviant behavior, especially sexual perversions.

However, Christians are the one exemption to the secular humanists' policy
of tolerance. They become militantly opposed to any expressions of
Christian faith. They believe in free speech for everyone but Christians.
They revile and torture Christians and conspire to condemn Christianity to
a shameful death. However, in doing this, they prove Christianity true and
themselves wrong, as Christianity withstands their attempts to destroy it.

Prayer: Father, may I be worthy of being persecuted for love of You.

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

Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus! You prayed for mercy on Your killers, on
us, and on all those who most need it.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "How to Fight False Teaching"
or our audio tape AV 62-1 or video V-62.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Saturday, September 19, 2009

CHARGE IT - One Bread, One Body, 9/19/2009

Saturday, September 19, 2009, St. Januarius

1 Timothy 6:13-16, Psalm 100:1-5, Luke 8:4-15
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/091909.shtml

CHARGE IT

"I charge you to keep God's command without blame or reproach until our
Lord Jesus Christ shall appear. This appearance God will bring to pass at
His chosen time." —1 Timothy 6:14-15

Paul said: "I have a solemn charge to give you, Timothy, my child" (1 Tm
1:18). He charged Timothy to be fully aware that Jesus could return at any
time, and to preach the word accordingly. "In the presence of God and of
Christ Jesus, Who is coming to judge the living and the dead, and by His
appearing and His kingly power, I charge you to preach the word" (2 Tm
4:1-2).

If you knew for sure Jesus would be coming back today, would you do
anything differently? Hopefully, you would not need to make any changes.
The Lord calls us to be so conscious of His Second Coming that we live
each day as if it were our last. We are called to do the Lord's will all
day, every day, and that's the way to be prepared for His coming.

Are you charged up about Jesus' Second Coming? Are you looking forward to
seeing Him face to face? Do you wish Jesus would come back today? True
disciples of Jesus over the centuries have been excited about Jesus'
return. They love Jesus and want to see Him. Let's charge each other to
run the race and fight the fight of the Christian life because Jesus is
coming "soon and very soon" (see 2 Tm 4:8).

Prayer: Jesus, may I want to see You more than I want to see the person I
love most in this world.

Promise: "The seed on good ground are those who hear the word in a spirit
of openness, retain it, and bear fruit through perseverance." —Lk 8:15

Praise: Praise: When they were thrown into the arena, the wild animals
wouldn't touch St. Januarius or his two companions.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Be Holy, for I Am Holy".)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Friday, September 18, 2009

BASICS-TRAINING - One Bread, One Body, 9/18/2009

Listen to Fr. Lauer's Bible Studies of Matthew and Mark as well as other
books online. This is a great resource for your Bible Study. These can
also be downloaded as MP3s.

http://www.presentationministries.com/tapes/tapes.asp?mode=mp3

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

Friday, September 18, 2009

1 Timothy 6:2-12, Psalm 49:6-10, 17-20, Luke 8:1-3
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/091809.shtml

BASICS-TRAINING

"If we have food and clothing we have all that we need." —1 Timothy 6:8

The Bible says all we need is food to eat and clothes to wear (1 Tm 6:8).
Very few Christians agree with this. Most feel they at least need a house
for shelter, insurance for security, a car for transportation, a phone for
communication, and a TV for entertainment. What Americans consider a
simple life is extravagant by Biblical standards.

The Bible considers the typical American lifestyle a "temptation and a
trap" (1 Tm 6:9). By our lifestyle, we let ourselves "be captured by
foolish and harmful desires which drag men down to ruin and destruction"
(1 Tm 6:9).

When Jesus talked like this to "the Pharisees, who were avaricious men"
(Lk 16:14), they "began to deride Him. He said to them: 'You justify
yourselves in the eyes of men, but God reads your hearts. What man thinks
important, God holds in contempt' " (Lk 16:14-15).

We must let Jesus be Lord of our lifestyle. Otherwise, He's not Lord of
our lives.

Prayer: Father, may they know we are Christians by our lifestyle, lived in
love for You and for others.

Promise: Jesus "journeyed through towns and villages preaching and
proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God." —Lk 8:1

Praise: Robert and Margaret raised their children without television, but
with much reading of Scripture.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Seek First The Kingdom".)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Thursday, September 17, 2009

The courage to stand

Source: Greg Laurie

Not too long ago, I read that violence on television is at an all-time high.
Then, of course, there is all the sexual perversion that is depicted. In
addition to all that, it seems like people are going out of their way to get
God out of our culture. Not only do they want to elevate perversion, but
they want to demote God. They want Him out of the picture-out of everything
for that matter.

This can be very discouraging to us as Christians. We can be tempted to
think, Well, really there is no hope. There is nothing the church can do and
there is certainly nothing that I can do.

But I want you to know that is simply not true. In 1 Kings 17, we find the
story of one man who lived at a time in Israel's history that closely
parallels our world today.

Elijah lived during one of the darkest and most evil times in the history of
Israel. It reminds us that when God is abandoned, moral breakdown will
always follow. That is because you cannot have morality without
spirituality. And you can't have real morality without a relationship with
the living God.

That is what happened to Israel. They had pushed God out of their culture.
It is not that they didn't believe in God any more. But they elevated other
gods to an equal level as they engaged in open idolatry.

For more than 100 years, Israel had lived under the reign of three kings:
Saul, David, and Solomon. Each had their flaws, some more than others.

At the end of Solomon's reign, a civil war broke out, and Israel was divided
into northern and southern kingdoms. Israel had become progressively more
and more wicked when King Ahab emerged, who was the most sinful of all.

His wife Jezebel was even more wicked than him in many ways. She was
effectively the power behind the throne. She was also a full-tilt idol
worshipper, and soon the nation was turning to idolatry too. Of the
thousands who were under Ahab's reign, there were only 7,000 who had not
bowed their knee to the false god of Baal.

It was into this wicked moral climate that God's man, Elijah, burst on the
scene: "Now Elijah, who was from Tishbe in Gilead, told King Ahab, 'As
surely as the Lord, the God of Israel, lives-the God I serve-there will be
no dew or rain during the next few years until I give the word!' " (1 Kings
17:1 NLT).

Elijah threw down a gauntlet that challenged the very nerve center of the
country and the people: he declared a drought.

How was he able to take such a bold step? Because he knew God. Elijah, in
contrast to Ahab and Jezebel and most of Israel at this point, served a
living God-not a dead one. Elijah recognized that wherever he was, he was in
the presence of God.

Second, Elijah was a man of prayer. James 5:17 tells us, "Elijah was a man
with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and
it did not rain on the land for three years and six months" (NKJV).It was
Elijah's prayer in private that was the source of his power in public.

Third, Elijah faithfully delivered the message. And it was not an easy
message God had given him to deliver. He wasn't even able to offer any hope.
But Elijah delivered God's message, and he delivered it in its entirety.

Lastly, Elijah was a man of faith and obedience. He faithfully delivered the
message to Ahab and Jezebel, but then God told him to go disappear. So for
three years, Elijah disappeared into obscurity. God would eventually use him
to challenge the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, but the Lord had to first
do some work on the prophet's heart. He wasn't ready yet.

Maybe you are in a place right now where the Lord is telling you to step
forward, or maybe He is telling you to step back. Perhaps He is telling you
to speak up, or He might be telling you to be quiet and just obey.

May God help us to be like Elijah-not a perfect person or a flawless person,
but a godly person. And may God use us to be people who will affect our
generation-people who will make a difference.

Useful link: www.harvest.org

"STUCK" UP? - One Bread, One Body, 9/17/2009

Listen to Fr. Lauer's Bible Studies of Matthew and Mark as well as other
books online. This is a great resource for your Bible Study. These can
also be downloaded as MP3s.

http://www.presentationministries.com/tapes/tapes.asp?mode=mp3

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

Thursday, September 17, 2009, St. Robert Bellarmine

1 Timothy 4:12-16, Psalm 111:7-10, Luke 7:36-50
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/091709.shtml

"STUCK" UP?

"Until I arrive, devote yourself to the reading of Scripture, to preaching
and teaching." —1 Timothy 4:13

Timothy wanted to quit his job as pastor of the church in Ephesus. Paul
told him to hang on, and he promised to come to help Timothy. So Timothy
was "stuck" waiting for Paul to come and rescue him.

Are you "stuck"? Are you some place you don't like? Are you in a marriage,
job, or situation where you want to leave? Are you "hoping against hope"
(see Rm 4:18) for a miracle? Are you desperately waiting for
reinforcements? Are you "sticking it out"? Are you "stuck"?

Paul gave Timothy and all "stuck" people the following commands:
* "Be a continuing example of love, faith, and purity to believers" (1
Tm 4:12).
* "Devote yourself to the reading of Scripture, to preaching and
teaching" (1 Tm 4:13).
* "Do not neglect the gift you received" (1 Tm 4:14).
* "Attend to your duties; let them absorb you, so that everyone may see
your progress" (1 Tm 4:15).
* "Watch yourself and watch your teaching. Persevere at both tasks" (1
Tm 4:16).

If we obey these commands, we will be anything but "stuck." We will bring
to salvation ourselves and those who hear us (1 Tm 4:16). Stick it out.

Prayer: Father, may I take it one day at a time (see Mt 6:34).

Promise: "Your faith has been your salvation. Now go in peace." —Lk 7:50

Praise: St. Robert used well the great gift of intelligence God had given
him and treated his opponents with prayer and dignity.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Thankful To Be Catholic" or
our tape on audio AV 49-3 or video V-49.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

SPOILED BRATS - One Bread, One Body, 9/16/2009

Read our brochure entitled, "The Secret of Confession"
http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/SecretConfession.asp

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

Wednesday, September 16, 2009, Sts. Cornelius & Cyprian

1 Timothy 3:14-16, Psalm 111:1-6, Luke 7:31-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/091609.shtml

SPOILED BRATS

"They are like children squatting in the city squares and calling to their
playmates, 'We piped you a tune but you did not dance, we sang you a dirge
but you did not wail.' " —Luke 7:32

Jesus asks what comparison He can use for the men of today. He comes to
the conclusion that we're like spoiled brats, squatting children who
always want our own way and are impossible to please. Is Jesus describing
us? Do we expect God to dance to our tune? (Lk 7:32) Do we expect Him to
wail when we complain? (Lk 7:32) Are we critical of those He sends and
judgmental of even God Himself? (Lk 7:33-34) Is this the kind of conduct
which befits a member of God's household? (1 Tm 3:15)

Look at our divisions and denominations in defiance of Jesus' expressed
wishes in His prayer in John 17:21. See the picky, petty concerns
expressed in the average church. Witness the pleasure-seeking,
compromised, worldly lifestyle of the typical American Christian. See
spoiled brats who want their own way.

Nonetheless, Jesus loves us anyway and continues to call us: "Whoever
wishes to be My follower must deny his very self, take us his cross each
day, and follow in My steps. Whoever would save his life will lose it, and
whoever loses his life for My sake will save it" (Lk 9:23-24).

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your unconditional love for me, a spoiled
brat. I repent. Forgive and free me.

Promise: "Wonderful, indeed, is the mystery of our faith, as we say in
professing it: 'He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the Spirit;
seen by the angels; preached among the Gentiles, believed in throughout
the world, taken up into glory.' " —1 Tm 3:16

Praise: In his ten years as bishop, St. Cyprian faithfully endured two
schisms, a persecution, a plague, exile, and finally martyrdom.

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

LOVE TO SUFFER - One Bread, One Body, 9/15/2009

Read our brochure entitled, "The Secret of Confession"
http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/SecretConfession.asp

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

Tuesday, September 15, 2009, Our Lady of Sorrows

Hebrews 5:7-9, Psalm 31:2-6, 15-16, 20, John 19:25-27, or Luke 2:33-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/091509.shtml

LOVE TO SUFFER

"Near the cross of Jesus there stood His mother." —John 19:25

Every human being naturally tries to avoid suffering. However, love can be
stronger than our natural attraction to pleasure and aversion to pain.
"For stern as death is love, relentless as the nether world is devotion;
its flames are a blazing fire" (Sg 8:6). Like Ruth, love can motivate us
to walk into a future which seems hopelessly lonely and impoverished (Ru
1:16-17). Like Mary Magdalene, love can drive us to choose tears of
mourning in the cemetery in preference to worldly pleasures (Jn 20:11).
Like Mary, Jesus' mother, love calls us to stand near the cross, even if
we can't be on the cross with Him (Jn 19:25).

Love motivates us to share with our Lover, even in suffering. We are
desirous of the compassion of love, even though we are afraid of the
passion of suffering. We feel repelled by suffering but compelled to
suffer with Jesus. In one sense, Jesus is still being crucified and held
up to contempt (Heb 6:6).

Is your love drawing you to the cross? Your mother Mary will help you. "At
the cross her station keeping, stood the mournful mother weeping, close to
Jesus to the last."

Prayer: Jesus, through the intercession of Mary, may I fill up what is
lacking in Your sufferings (Col 1:24). May my love for You be stronger
than my fear of suffering.

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: Mary knew of and suffered with Jesus' cross longer and deeper than
anyone else. Her love of Christ impelled her to endure His brutal
sufferings.

(For a related teaching, order our tape on "Developing a Deep Personal
Relationship with Jesus" on audio AV 52-1 or video V-52.)

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Monday, September 14, 2009

"LIFT HIGH THE CROSS" - One Bread, One Body, 9/14/2009

Pray about distributing a bulk order of OBOB in your diocese, city,
parish, prayer group, place of business, doctors' office, hospital,
neighborhood or family.

Fill out our online order form at:
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obobSubscribe.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Monday, September 14, 2009, Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Numbers 21:4-9, Philippians 2:6-11, Psalm 78:1-2, 34-38, John 3:13-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/091409.shtml

"LIFT HIGH THE CROSS"

"He humbled Himself...because of this, God highly exalted
Him." —Philippians 2:8, 9

How do we Catholics treat the cross of being called to have a large
family? When we see a large family pass by, do we look on them with pity
and say to others, "What a burden"? (Mal 1:13) What are our comments about
those who suffer from Alzheimers, Down's Syndrome, mental retardation,
physical handicaps, etc? How do we respond when we see an overburdened
priest, religious brother, or sister? Do we tell others that the cross of
celibacy, loneliness, and poverty isn't worth the trouble?

If our response to those who carry these crosses is "What a burden," we
subtly tell the world that the cross of Jesus is a thing to be avoided,
not a thing of triumph. We humble the cross rather than exalt it.

Have you humbled or abased the cross of Jesus in any way? Repent! Let's
revere the crosses of others in a way that shows the world that we are not
ashamed of the cross of Christ Jesus (Rm 1:16; Mk 8:38). Lift high the
cross of Christ! Through it, Jesus will draw all men and women to Himself
(Jn 12:32).

Prayer: Father, may I "speak of nothing but Jesus Christ and Him
crucified" (1 Cor 2:2).

Promise: "God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world,
but that the world might be saved through Him." —Jn 3:17

Praise: Praise the crucified Jesus, Whose name is exalted above every
other name! (Phil 2:9)

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

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

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

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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Sunday, September 13, 2009

PM eNewsletter 24th Sunday in ordinary time.

September 13th 24th Sunday in ordinary time.

Oh! Jesus, what sorrow can be more painful then a mother
watching her beloved Son die a most horrible death.

This week our church honors Mary of "Lady of sorrows" who
stood at Your cross and saw You die.

Yet her faith was not dimmed, because her trust in the
Father continued.

Please, oh! Jesus, give us some of that faith that we might
continue to face all the problems of life with the faith of Mary.

Lord, let us give You praise and glory throughout our lives.

Lord, let us have the peace that only You can give, and let
Your love guide us always. 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

To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp
________________________________________________

One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday THE PRIVILEGE OF SUFFERING (Phil 1:29)
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/13/2009

"He began to teach them that the Son of Man had to suffer
much, be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the
scribes, be put to death, and rise three days later. He said
these things quite openly." —Mark 8:31-32

Jesus is very open about the fact that we will have to suffer
and bear our "share of the hardship which the gospel entails
" (2 Tm 1:8). He bluntly states that we who follow Him must
deny ourselves and take up the cross (Mk 8:34). Suffering is
the way of salvation, and necessary for the completion of
God's plan of salvation. We fill up in our own flesh "what is
lacking in the sufferings of Christ for the sake of His body,
the Church" (Col 1:24).

This does not mean that all suffering is God's will. Jesus
repeatedly takes people out of suffering by healing and
delivering them. Every hospital, doctor's office, and social
service agency exists to alleviate suffering. Nonetheless,
some sufferings are in the pattern of Jesus' death (Phil 3:10).
These we should not relieve but accept as our sharing in
the sufferings of Christ.

"See to it none of you suffers for being a murderer, a thief,
a malefactor, or a destroyer of another's rights. If anyone
suffers for being a Christian, however, he ought not to be
ashamed. He should rather glorify God in virtue of that
name" (1 Pt 4:15-16).

Monday "LIFT HIGH THE CROSS"
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/14/2009

"He humbled Himself...because of this, God highly exalted
Him." —Philippians 2:8, 9

Tuesday LOVE TO SUFFER
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/15/2009

"Near the cross of Jesus there stood His mother." —John 19:25

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

· Seek Prophecy
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SeekProphecy.asp

"Yes, even on My servants and handmaids I will pour out
a portion of My Spirit in those days, and they shall
prophesy." —Acts 2:18; Joel 3:1

· Paying and Receiving Interest
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/PayReceiv.asp

· Obedience School
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ObSchool.asp

· The Secret of Fasting
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SecretFasting.asp

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

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

Please pray for a spiritual and physical healing for
Christopher. Grant him strength,peace and wisdom.
(Mom, Massachusetts, United States, 9/12/2009 5:22:11 PM)

Dear, God PLease Forgive me for all of my SINS. Please
Grant me the Blood and Power of the Cross by your only
BEGOTTEN SON JESUS CHRIST. PLease Help me through
my sorrow and Hard Times. PLease grant me the HOLY
SPIRIT to be Filled with WISDOM, UNDERSTANDING and
FEAR OF THE LORD. AMEN
(K.P., New York, NY, United States, 9/12/2009 2:58:39 PM)

My husband had a lung biopsy done and we are now
awaiting the test results. Please pray for good test results!!!
Jesus, we trust in YOU! amen!!!
(I.M., PCB, Fl, United States, 9/12/2009 2:31:52 PM)

Need God's providential care physically, financially,
emotionally and spiritually. Going through many hardships.
Please ask God to cure loneliness.
(Anonymous, 9/12/2009 2:25:49 PM)

I thank God that my daughter got her luggage, Thanks for
all prayers, and I pray for all in Jesus Name
(Anonymous, 9/12/2009 1:21:56 PM)

Please pray for my daughter she is seventeen years old
and going through some tough times her brother is on
drugs and has totally abandoned her and has not contact
with her even though they grew up together and were
together almost every day of their lives. She had not been
doing well in school and has just recently been fired from
he job. Please pray that God would give her peace and
give her wisdom and knowledge to make good decisions
for her future and that God would open doors for her and
bless her in all that she does. Pray that the lord would
bring positive Godly people into her life.
(A.H., New York, NY, United States, 9/12/2009 12:33:27 PM)

Please pray for my son who is strung out on drugs. It has
been reported that he is beating his girlfriend and has
put her and his four month old son out on the streets. He
has been seen at a night club acting very sexually
brazen and highed up on drugs. Pray that he would stop
and repent of his sins and turn his life around. He
accepted the lord as his personal saviour and was
baptised but has turned away from his family and the
lord. Please pray that he would gain his right state of
mind and that God would heal him and deliver him from
this addiction. Pray that our family remain strong and
have the peace of God that supasses all understanding.
(A.H., New York, NY, United States, 9/12/2009 12:25:11 PM)

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

MP3 4 You

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

*** Please check these listings as a number of changes have been made.

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
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-08.asp?navlink=latest

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

GRANDPARENTS: A TREASURE

"IMPORTANT ROLE"

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

THE THREAT OF THE CULTURE OF DEATH

Unfortunately, it seems that the "culture of death" is
advancing on many fronts and is also threatening the
season of old-age. With growing insistence, people
are even proposing euthanasia as a solution for
resolving certain difficult situations.

"THE LIGHT OF THE TRUTH"

Old age, with its problems that are also linked to the
new family and social contexts because of modern
development, should be evaluated carefully and
always in the light of the truth about man, the family,
and the community. It is always necessary to react
strongly to what dehumanizes society.

(Sources: Angelus, 7/26/09; Address to Pontifical
Council for the Family, 4/5/08)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-07.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
________________________________________________

2009 RETREATS
Online Registration

2009 RETREATS

· The Gospel of Life (Sep 18-19)
· Building Christian Community (Oct 2-4)
· The Bible Timeline (Oct 5-8)

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

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

Visit Presentation Ministries at http://www.presentationministries.com

To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r

Our Main Sponsor

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Monday, September 28, 2009

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Friday, September 25, 2009

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Monday, September 21, 2009

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Friday, September 18, 2009

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Monday, September 14, 2009

Sunday, September 13, 2009