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

Thursday, December 31, 2009

THE END - One Bread, One Body, 12/31/2009

Make a New Year's Resolution to share OBOB with a friend.

"Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature" (Mk
16:15).
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Thursday, December 31, 2009, Pope St. Sylvester

1 John 2:18-21, Psalm 96:1-2, 11-13, John 1:1-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/123109.shtml

THE END

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

As this year ends, ask yourself: "How is my relationship with God?" The
phrase "All's well that ends well" is certainly true biblically, for it's
the state of our relationship with Him at the end that counts.

God tells us in His word that the final state of our relationship with Him
is what He judges us on. "If the virtuous man turns from the path of
virtue to do evil...can he do this and still live? None of his virtuous
deeds shall be remembered, because he has broken faith" (Ez 18:24). "If
the wicked man turns away from all the sins he committed, if he keeps all
My statutes and does what is right and just, he shall surely live, he
shall not die. None of the crimes he committed shall be remembered against
him; he shall live because of the virtue he has practiced" (Ez 18:21-22).

Consider the good thief (Lk 23:40-43). Despite a wasted life, he turned to
Jesus in his "last hour." Now he's in heaven with Jesus. Conversely, you
can guess how your spouse would evaluate your relationship if you said: "I
gave you thirty years, but now I'm tired of you. I'm leaving you for
someone else." We must become faithful, and then remain faithful to the
end (see Mk 13:13).

Since we know this is the last hour (1 Jn 2:18), let us recommit our lives
to Jesus. The Lord can do great miracles and fulfill wondrous promises in
the last hour. The one who perseveres to the end will be saved (Mt 24:13).

Prayer: Father, may I live each day as if it were my last day on earth.
Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!

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

Praise: Pope St. Sylvester used many gifts of the Holy Spirit as he led
the Church into an era featuring the beginning of greater religious
tolerance by the government.

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

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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, 2009 through January 31, 2010
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, June 4, 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.

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

WORLD WAR - One Bread, One Body, 12/30/2009

Make a New Year's Resolution to share OBOB with a friend.

"Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature" (Mk
16:15).
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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

1 John 2:12-17, Psalm 96:7-10, Luke 2:36-40
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/123009.shtml

WORLD WAR

"The world with its seductions is passing away but the man who does God's
will endures forever." —1 John 2:17

"The way we can be sure of our knowledge of [Jesus] is to keep His
commandments" (1 Jn 2:3). The summary (Rm 13:9) and "fulfillment" (Gal
5:14) of all the commandments is to love our neighbor as ourselves (Lk
10:27). Nonetheless, we can't love until we first receive God's love (1 Jn
4:19). Moreover, we can't receive God's love if we love the world, that
system which operates irrespective of Jesus' Lordship.

Therefore, we must "have no love for the world, nor the things that the
world affords. If anyone loves the world, the Father's love has no place
in him" (1 Jn 2:15). If we are set upon the things of this world, we are
enemies of the cross (Phil 3:18-19). If we compromise with the world and
make friends with it, we make ourselves God's enemies (Jas 4:4).

Accordingly, at the cross we must be crucified to the world and the world
to us (Gal 6:14). Otherwise we don't receive God's love and therefore
don't give it. We disobey the Lord's commandment to love, and this
prevents us from having a personal relationship with Jesus. Love for the
world robs us of salvation and eternal happiness.

Prayer: Father, fill me with Your love as I empty myself of the things
that the world affords (1 Jn 2:16).

Promise: "She was constantly in the temple, worshipping day and night in
fasting and prayer. Coming on the scene at this moment, she gave thanks to
God and talked about the Child to all who looked forward to the
deliverance of Jerusalem." —Lk 2:37-38

Praise: After encountering Jesus, Lyla turned off her TV and turned on
worship music.

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

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Tuesday, December 29, 2009

CHRISTMAS CAROLS, A LULLABY,AND A FUNERAL SONG - One Bread, One Body, 12/29/2009

Make a New Year's Resolution to share OBOB with a friend.

"Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature" (Mk
16:15).
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Tuesday, December 29, 2009, St. Thomas Becket

1 John 2:3-11, Psalm 96:1-3, 5-6, Luke 2:22-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122909.shtml

CHRISTMAS CAROLS, A LULLABY,AND A FUNERAL SONG

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

The first two chapters of Luke's Gospel record what may be called the
first four Christmas carols. The traditional Latin names for these four
songs are Mary's "Magnificat," Zechariah's "Benedictus," the angels'
"Gloria," and Simeon's "Nunc Dimittis." This last "carol" is part of
today's Gospel reading.

Over the centuries, the Church has used Simeon's song as a lullaby, a
bedtime song. Before we put our heads on our pillows, the Church calls us
to make our peace with God. We are to be so totally committed to Him, so
totally repentant, and so totally trusting in Him that we are content to
die during the night (see Lk 2:29). Because we have accepted the Lord's
"saving Deed," His "revealing Light," and the glory of the Spirit (Lk
2:30-32), we are ready to go home to heaven. We have been doing what we
were created to do on earth, and we are ready to die and begin our new,
everlasting life in heaven.

The Christmas season is a special time for deepening our relationship with
the Lord. Is the Lord so real to you, is your love for Jesus so deep that
you will let Him take your hand and lead you through "the valley of the
shadow of death" (see Ps 23:4, RSV-CE) into heaven? Sing Simeon's song and
learn to trust Jesus this Christmas season.

Prayer: Father, may I trust You completely "now and at the hour" of my
death. Amen.

Promise: "Whoever keeps His word, truly has the love of God been made
perfect in him." —1 Jn 2:5

Praise: St. Thomas, an archbishop, courageously defended the Church and
the faith, refusing to yield to the threats of a hostile king. He paid the
ultimate price for his faith, as he was martyred in his cathedral.

(Our Co-workers retreat occurs Jan. 29/30. Renew your resolve to work for
the Lord! Call 937-587-5464 for details.)

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eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Monday, December 28, 2009

WHOLLY INNOCENT - One Bread, One Body, 12/28/2009

Read through the whole Bible in 2010. See our reading schedules at:

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/ThroughBible.asp
http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/FrAlPlanReadingBible.asp
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Monday, December 28, 2009, Holy Innocents

1 John 1:5—2:2, Psalm 124:2-5, 7-8, Matthew 2:13-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122809.shtml

WHOLLY INNOCENT

"God is light; in Him there is no darkness." —1 John 1:5

"The flight into Egypt and the massacre of the innocents make manifest the
opposition of darkness to the light" (Catechism, 530). This darkness still
oppresses us today. We live in a culture of death. The innocent die daily,
through persecution, wars, chemical and surgical abortions, and in
countless other ways. Sins are publicly flaunted. How can we once again
hope without cynicism, see with pure eyes, and live as wholly and holy
innocent children of God?

Jesus, the "Innocent" One (Heb 7:26), has overcome the darkness (1 Jn 1:5;
Jn 16:33). In the beautiful words of the Easter Vigil liturgy Exsultet,
Jesus "dispels all evil, washes guilt away, restores lost innocence." In
Jesus, we are made new (2 Cor 5:17).

"For in those who are born again, God hates nothing, because 'there is no
condemnation, to those who are truly buried together with Christ by
baptism unto death' [Rm 6:4], who do not 'walk according to the flesh' [Rm
8:1], but putting off 'the old man' and putting on the 'new, who is
created according to God' [Eph 4:22ff; Col 3:9ff], are made innocent,
immaculate, pure, guiltless and beloved sons of God, 'heirs indeed of God,
but co-heirs with Christ' [Rm 8:17]" (Council of Trent, DS 1510-1516).

"Remain simple and innocent, and you will be like little children who do
not know the evil that destroys man's life" (Catechism, 2517). "In
everything you do,...prove yourselves innocent and straightforward,
children of God beyond reproach in the midst of a twisted and depraved
generation" (Phil 2:14-15).

Prayer: Jesus, help us to be "innocent as doves" (Mt 10:16). May Your
innocence shining through us attract others to You.

Promise: "If we walk in light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship
with one another, and the blood of His Son Jesus cleanses us from all
sin." —1 Jn 1:7

Praise: The Holy Innocents, the first victims for Christ, were compared by
St. Bede to those martyrs who have washed their robes and made them white
in the blood of the Lamb (Rv 7:14).

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

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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
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Sunday, December 27, 2009

PM eNewsletter Feast of the Holy family

December 27th Feast of the Holy family

Jesus, as we end this year, let us see the power of love that exists
in the human family that should be like your Holy Family.

We all have our faults and failings, but they can be given to You, so
that we can be free to love those who gave us life and took care of
us as children.

Let us see that our parents did the best they could where they were at.

And let us pray for them to come and find the love that You have for all
families.

Jesus, help all children especially those who had difficult childhoods
and give them the grace to forgive.

Let this next year be a year of peace and love and forgivness.

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 LIFE IS A ...
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/27/2009

"On the third day they came upon Him in the temple." —Luke 2:46

Shakespeare said the world is a stage and we are all players in
the theater of life. Others say life is a party or game. Job said life
was a drudgery (Jb 7:1). The Lord reveals to us that life is a
Passover (see Lk 2:41) — a communal celebration of our
God-given freedom from slavery. Life is not just a nostalgic look
at Passovers past, but a living of Passover present. Life is losing
Christ for three days (see Lk 2:46), being crucified and buried
with Him (Rm 6:3-4), and searching for the Lord in sorrow
(Lk 2:48; Jn 20:15). Life is also finding Christ and rising with Him
"on the third day" (Lk 2:46; Jn 20:16).

All of this is "the Father's business" (Lk 2:49, our transl). This is
everyday life and family life. This is the way of holiness in life and
in family. We become holy by becoming like God (see 1 Pt 1:15-16).
We become like God by being baptized into Jesus' death and
resurrection (Rm 6:3ff) and living our Baptisms through daily
crosses and repeated experiences of the resurrection. As our
lives become Passovers, we and our families become holy. Like
Jesus, we progress "steadily in wisdom and age and grace before
God and men" (Lk 2:52). Holy Family, pray for us.

Monday WHOLLY INNOCENT
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/28/2009

"God is light; in Him there is no darkness." —1 John 1:5

Tuesday CHRISTMAS CAROLS, A LULLABY,AND A FUNERAL SONG
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/29/2009

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

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

Share an OBOB e-mail with a friend today! It's easy and
quick and it will make Jesus smile!
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obobDriveEmail.asp
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Brochures

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

This Week's Featured Brochures

· Who Am I in Christ?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/WhoAmIInChrist.asp

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

· Speak the Truth in Love
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SpeakTruthLove.asp

· Mother Mary
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/MotherMary.asp

· Through the Bible in One Year
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ThroughBible.asp

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

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

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

Ivana, young mother has cancer and she is dying. Please
pray for her
(T., Split, Croatia, 12/26/2009 4:13:18 PM)

For all who suffer illness, loneliness, separation, the loss of a
loved one or some tragic circumstance in your life-know that
you are NOT ALONE—celebrate the Birth of Our Lord JESUS-
Merry Christmas!
(K., Texas, 12/26/2009 3:04:07 PM)

Dear father in heaven, Help me to be content with my life and
allow me to accept some of the things that I cannot change.
Help me to use the past such that I can make a better future
for my self and those that are around me.
(Anonymous, 12/26/2009 12:00:55 AM)

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus' name, Please pray that we
are going to have better life next year 2010 and that God will
always with us. Many thanks for all your prayers and thoughts.
GBU.
(Y., LLL, Malang, East Java, Indonesia, 12/25/2009 10:26:38 PM)

I pray that my husband will be able to get a job with EM this
coming yr & quickly. If we could only be so blessed that he be
able to get a job with them & KEEP it, it would truly help us out
greatly. Please have mercy Lord. He has all this education &
like so many others he can't use it & is stuck in some dead end
min. wage job that does not pay the bills. He is working 2 jobs
just to barely cut it & that is because we had to move in with
my parents. If he were to be so blessed to get that job we
could have a place of our own again. You know how tense it is
here because of the children. Please have mercy Lord.
(N., victoria, tx, United States, 12/25/2009 8:15:43 PM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp
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MP3 4 You

The internet ministry for PM is highlighting our downloadable
tapes online. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
are featured as 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
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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
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-08.asp?navlink=latest

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

LOVE AND TRUTH

JESUS IS THE TRUTH

In Christ, charity in truth becomes the Face of His Person, a
vocation to love our brothers and sisters in the truth of His
plan. Indeed, He Himself is the Truth... (1)

"AT THE HEART"

Charity is at the heart of the Church's social doctrine. Every
responsibility and every commitment spelt out by that
doctrine is derived from charity which, according to the
teachings of Jesus, is the synthesis of the entire law. (cf. Mt 22:36-40)
(2)

TRUTH AND CHARITY

Truth needs to be sought, found, and expressed within the
"economy" of charity, but charity in its turn needs to be
understood, confirmed and practiced in the light of truth In
this way, ...we do service to charity, enlightened by truth, but
we also help give credibility to truth, demonstrating its
persuasive and authenticating power in the practical setting
of social living. (2)

(Source: Encyclical Caritas in veritate, dated June 29, 2009)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-11.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
________________________________________________

2009 RETREATS
Online Registration

2009 RETREATS

· Who Am I in Christ? (Feb 12-13)
· Women's Retreat (Mar 20)

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreatSchedule.asp
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LIFE IS A ... - One Bread, One Body, 12/27/2009

Read through the whole Bible in 2010. See our reading schedules at:

Sunday, December 27, 2009, Holy Family

1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28, 1 John 3:1-2, 21-24, Psalm 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10,
Luke 2:41-52
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122709.shtml

LIFE IS A ...

"On the third day they came upon Him in the temple." —Luke 2:46

Shakespeare said the world is a stage and we are all players in the
theater of life. Others say life is a party or game. Job said life was a
drudgery (Jb 7:1). The Lord reveals to us that life is a Passover (see Lk
2:41) — a communal celebration of our God-given freedom from slavery. Life
is not just a nostalgic look at Passovers past, but a living of Passover
present. Life is losing Christ for three days (see Lk 2:46), being
crucified and buried with Him (Rm 6:3-4), and searching for the Lord in
sorrow (Lk 2:48; Jn 20:15). Life is also finding Christ and rising with
Him "on the third day" (Lk 2:46; Jn 20:16).

All of this is "the Father's business" (Lk 2:49, our transl). This is
everyday life and family life. This is the way of holiness in life and in
family. We become holy by becoming like God (see 1 Pt 1:15-16). We become
like God by being baptized into Jesus' death and resurrection (Rm 6:3ff)
and living our Baptisms through daily crosses and repeated experiences of
the resurrection. As our lives become Passovers, we and our families
become holy. Like Jesus, we progress "steadily in wisdom and age and grace
before God and men" (Lk 2:52). Holy Family, pray for us.

Prayer: Father, center my life on celebrating, receiving, and living the
New Passover, the Eucharist (see Lk 22:15).

Promise: "Beloved, if our consciences have nothing to charge us with, we
can be sure that God is with us and that we will receive at His hands
whatever we ask. Why? Because we are keeping His commandments and doing
what is pleasing in His sight." —1 Jn 3:21-22

Praise: Praise Jesus, Whose humility and love led Him to be submissive and
obedient to his earthly parents.

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

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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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Saturday, December 26, 2009

HE'S GOT THAT CHRISTMAS SPIRIT - One Bread, One Body, 12/26/2009

We at Presentation Ministries wish you a very holy and blessed Christmas.
We pray you will receive Jesus, the Word Incarnate, in a new way into your
heart.

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Saturday, December 26, 2009, St. Stephen

Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59, Psalm 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17, Matthew 10:17-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122609.shtml

HE'S GOT THAT CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

"Into Your hands I commend my spirit; You will redeem me, O Lord, O
faithful God." —Psalm 31:6

St. Stephen, "of whom the world was not worthy" (Heb 11:38, RSV-CE),
modeled perfect discipleship and testified to God's all-consuming love.
The deacon Stephen (Acts 6:4-6) knew he was called to be a servant: "Those
who serve well as deacons gain a worthy place for themselves and much
assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus" (1 Tm 3:13). Beyond dedicated
and selfless service, Stephen displayed sacrificial, crucified love.
"There is no greater love than this: to lay down one's life for one's
friends" (Jn 15:13).

Are we willing to boldly proclaim to the world that we are a disciple of
the risen Jesus? Will we cry out with Stephen: "Look!...I see an opening
in the sky, and the Son of Man standing at God's right hand"? (Acts 7:56)
Humanly, it is impossible to muster up the courage to praise and pray in
this way. Nonetheless, "do not be afraid" (Acts 18:9). Jesus and the
Father have sent a "Counselor, the Holy Spirit," to help you (Jn 14:26,
RSV-CE). "The Spirit too helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how
to pray as we ought; but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with
groanings that cannot be expressed in speech" (Rm 8:26).

Jesus therefore tells us, His unworthy disciples, "When they hand you
over, do not worry about what you will say or how you will say it. When
the hour comes, you will be given what you are to say. You yourselves will
not be the speakers; the Spirit of your Father will be speaking in you"
(Mt 10:19-20). With St. Stephen, "receive the Holy Spirit" (Jn 20:22), the
true Christmas spirit.

Prayer: Father, fill me with Your "grace and power" (Acts 6:8). I put my
words and my life in Your hands (Ps 31:6).

Promise: "Whoever holds out to the end will escape death." —Mt 10:22

Praise: Those who debated with St. Stephen "proved no match for the wisdom
and spirit with which he spoke" (Acts 6:10).

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

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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, December 25, 2009

FOOTPRINTS - One Bread, One Body, 12/25/2009

We at Presentation Ministries wish you a very holy and blessed Christmas.
We pray you will receive Jesus, the Word Incarnate, in a new way into your
heart.

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Friday, December 25, 2009, Christmas

Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-6, Psalm 98:1-6, John 1:1-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122509.shtml

FOOTPRINTS

"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of Him Who brings glad
tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing
salvation." —Isaiah 52:7

We parents can spend much time gazing at our babies. We enjoy the way our
infant's feet and toes curl up and expand. We count the number of toes and
fingers. Each little movement brings fresh delight. Before we know it,
we've spent a half-hour contemplating our baby. We can spend hours looking
at our own babies, and never tire of it. This is because we love our baby
so much.

Jesus took on flesh and became a human Baby (Jn 1:14). Now we can relate
to Him in a way that we couldn't previously. As a parent delights in
admiring each aspect of their newborn, so we can reflect on the many
aspects of the incarnate Infant, Jesus.

This Christmas season, as you contemplate the Baby Jesus, reflect
especially upon Jesus' beautiful feet (Is 52:7). He traveled dusty roads
to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God (Mt 10:14). He let His
feet be washed by the penitent woman (Lk 7:44-45), so we would know that
love overcomes a multitude of sins (1 Pt 4:8). He allowed His feet to be
pierced and nailed to a cross and bleed for our salvation. His feet pushed
painfully upon the nails so He could breathe enough to speak His last
words on the cross.

Choose the better portion this Christmas (Lk 10:42). Sit at the beautiful
feet of Jesus and listen to His words (Lk 10:39).

Prayer: Father, give me such a love for Jesus that I never tire of
meditating on Him. Thank You for sending Jesus to save us all.

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

Praise: Praise You, Infant Jesus! Your innocence and beauty have
transformed the world. Alleluia!

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

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Thursday, December 24, 2009

THE WORST FOR LAST - One Bread, One Body, 12/24/2009

For Christmas read the Psalms. Our brochure "Your Christmas Present: The
Psalms" has a reading schedule.

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp
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Thursday, December 24, 2009

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16, Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29, Luke 1:67-79
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122409.shtml

THE WORST FOR LAST

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

Throughout Advent, we have met some of history's greatest people: Elijah,
John the Baptizer, Joseph, and Mary. On the last two days of Advent, the
Church introduces us to Zechariah. The Church saves one of the worst for
last. Now, Zechariah was "just in the eyes of God, blamelessly following
all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord" (Lk 1:6). So he's not the
worst person in the world. However, he is known for his doubt rather than
his faith. This lack of faith resulted in Zechariah becoming deaf and dumb
for nine months. Finally, Zechariah did believe and obey. At that point,
his tongue was loosed (Lk 1:64); he was filled with the Holy Spirit; he
prophesied and praised the Lord.

The Church may save Zechariah for last because we can relate to him better
than to the fiery Elijah, the fearless John the Baptizer, the faith-filled
and faithful Joseph, and the immaculate Mary. We can relate to Zechariah's
doubt, weakness, deafness, and dumbness. We believe, but we have a lack of
faith (see Mk 9:24). However, we can also relate to the later Zechariah
who prophesied and praised in the power of the Spirit.

May we begin to celebrate the birth of Jesus this Christmas by
experiencing the Holy Spirit as Zechariah did at the birth of John.

Prayer: Father, thank You for Advent. Complete Your work in my life. Do
anything necessary to prepare me for Christmas.

Promise: "He, the Dayspring, shall visit us in His mercy to shine on those
who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the
way of peace." —Lk 1:78-79

Praise: "The favors of the Lord I will sing forever; through all
generations my mouth shall proclaim Your faithfulness" (Ps 89:2).

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Wednesday, December 23, 2009

CHRISTMAS FEAR - One Bread, One Body, 12/23/2009

For Christmas read the Psalms. Our brochure "Your Christmas Present: The
Psalms" has a reading schedule.

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp
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Wednesday, December 23, 2009, St. John of Kanty

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24, Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14, Luke 1:57-66
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122309.shtml

CHRISTMAS FEAR

"Fear descended." —Luke 1:65

"Fear descended on all in the neighborhood" because of the miraculous
events surrounding the birth of John the Baptizer. How much more so will
the fear of the Lord come upon us when we celebrate Jesus' birth this
Christmas! "Who will endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when
He appears?" (Mal 3:2)

When the Holy Spirit gave birth to the Church, "a reverent fear overtook
them all, for many wonders and signs were performed by the apostles" (Acts
2:43). If fear overtook them all when the Church, the body of Christ, was
born, how much more so will the fear of the Lord overtake us when we
celebrate the birthday of Christ, the Head of the body! (Eph 1:22-23)

At Christmas, we have reason to fear the Lord. This awe in God's presence
is a most important gift of the Holy Spirit (Is 11:2). At our
Confirmation, we were prayed for specifically to receive this gift. The
fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Ps 111:10). "Fear of the Lord
is glory and splendor, gladness and a festive crown. Fear of the Lord
warms the heart, giving gladness and joy and length of days. He who fears
the Lord will have a happy end; even on the day of his death he will be
blessed" (Sir 1:9-11; see also Ps 128:1). "Those who fear the Lord prepare
their hearts and humble themselves before Him" (Sir 2:17). We are called
to make "steady progress in the fear of the Lord" (Acts 9:31), for the
fear of the Lord is not only the beginning of wisdom but also of
Christmas.

Prayer: Father, this Christmas may my delight be the fear of the Lord (Is
11:3).

Promise: "What will this child be?" —Lk 1:66

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

(Use the gifts God has given you by volunteering for Presentation
Ministries. Call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397 for information.)

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Tuesday, December 22, 2009

"MARY" CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/22/2009

Call one of PM's Bible Telephone lines. The 4-minute message includes
Bible teaching on the Eucharistic readings and prayer for listener's
requests.

http://www.presentationministries.com/bibleline/bibleline.asp
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Tuesday, December 22, 2009

1 Samuel 1:24-28, 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8, Luke 1:46-56
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122209.shtml

"MARY" CHRISTMAS

"All ages to come shall call me blessed." —Luke 1:48

The archangel Gabriel announced to Mary: "Rejoice, O highly favored
daughter! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women" (Lk 1:28).
Elizabeth prophesied and echoed the angel Gabriel's statement. However,
she added: "Blest are you among women and blest is the fruit of your womb"
(Lk 1:42). Then she implied that the fruit of Mary's womb was God by
calling Mary "the mother of my Lord" (Lk 1:43). Next, Elizabeth calls Mary
"blest" again because Mary "trusted that the Lord's words to her would be
fulfilled" (Lk 1:45). Finally, Mary prophesied the last blessing: "All
ages to come shall call me blessed" (Lk 1:48).

God's word proclaims that Mary is blessed among women, the most blessed of
women, blessed as the mother of God, and blessed as a woman of faith. All
ages shall call her blessed. "Mary" Christmas!

Prayer: Father, may I have a "Mary" Christmas. May I love Jesus as Mary
does.

Promise: "God Who is mighty has done great things for me, holy is His
name; His mercy is from age to age on those who fear Him." —Lk 1:49-50

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

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

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

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Monday, December 21, 2009

DANCING IN THE STREETS - One Bread, One Body, 12/21/2009

Call one of PM's Bible Telephone lines. The 4-minute message includes
Bible teaching on the Eucharistic readings and prayer for listener's
requests.

http://www.presentationministries.com/bibleline/bibleline.asp
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Monday, December 21, 2009, St. Peter Canisius

Song of Songs 2:8-14 or, Zephaniah 3:14-18, Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21,
Luke 1:39-45
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122109.shtml

DANCING IN THE STREETS

"Here He comes springing across the mountains." —Song of Songs 2:8

Those who don't know God think being a Christian is boring. They even
think that a Christ-centered Christmas is more boring than a worldly Xmas.
But they're wrong in both cases. Here are a few snapshots of a
Christ-centered Christmas. The Lord "comes springing across the mountains,
leaping across the hills" (Sg 2:8). We respond by shouting (Zep 3:14).
Then we sing joyfully (Zep 3:14). Next, this springing, leaping, and
loving Lord sings joyfully because of us (Zep 3:17). We and the Lord sing
back and forth to each other, and the whole place starts to jump. Then we
dance with the springing, leaping, loving, and singing Lord. Even babies
in the womb start to dance by jumping for joy as they receive the Holy
Spirit (see Lk 1:44). The rejoicing in our town rises to fever pitch (Acts
8:8). The place starts to shake as we pray (Acts 4:31). We are all "filled
with the Holy Spirit," the only true Christmas Spirit (Acts 4:31).

This is only one scene of Christ's Christmas season. Yes, we will have a
"silent night, holy night" during the Christmas season. However, some of
our Christmas nights and days will not be silent, but thunderously joyful.
Come, Lord Jesus!

Prayer: Father, may I dance before You as David danced (see 2 Sm 6:14).

Promise: "Blest is she who trusted that the Lord's words to her would be
fulfilled." —Lk 1:45

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

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Loving the Mass" on audio AV 54-3
or video V-54.)

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Sunday, December 20, 2009

PM eNewsletter Fourth Sunday of Advent

December 20th Fourth Sunday of Advent

Oh! Christ, You are about to come again as the babe in the manger.

Please help us to realize that You, as a baby, are all loving and all
forgiving.

That all of our sins can and should be washed away, so that this
year we can end on a note of praise and peace.

We can never truly have peace unless we are truly washed clean
in Your Blood.

Jesus, thank You so much for Your becoming like us in everything
but sin.

Let us be excited that You love us so much that You died that we
might have eternal life.

Let us, this joyous season, lift our voices in praise and glory to You.

Let us be freed from the bondage of sin and soar like the angels
in loving You. 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
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday JESUS, PEACE ON EARTH
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/20/2009

"He shall be peace." —Micah 5:4

The angels heralding Jesus' birth proclaimed "Peace on earth"
as Peace Incarnate entered the world (Lk 2:14). In doing the
will of God the Father (Heb 10:7), Jesus, the Ruler, brings peace
to His people (Mi 5:1, 4). Jesus our Peace (Eph 2:14) comes to
bring peace. When He appeared to His apostles on the evening
of His resurrection, Jesus' first words were "Peace be with you" (Jn
20:19).

How ironic and sad that Peace should be hunted down by the
government as an Infant (Mt 2:16), forced to flee as a Refugee
to a foreign land (Mt 2:13ff), and made to live in poverty (2 Cor 8:9).
Finally, Peace was persecuted, brutalized, and crucified. Jesus is
still hunted down and crucified by present-day governments. For
example, Jesus was ejected from the American public schools.
Decades later, some high schools hire armed guards to try to
keep the peace. How many acts of violence have been committed
in the public schools since Peace was thrown out? Jesus laments
to all who reject Him: "If only you had known the path of peace
this day; but you have completely lost it from view!" (Lk 19:42)

Do we really want peace on earth? Would we rather have worldly
peace, which is often merely the temporary cessation of war, or
true "shalom" peace, which overturns (see Jn 2:14ff) the world's
systems, cultures, societies, and lifestyles? True world peace
can be achieved only by opening our lives, homes, social
structures, schools, institutions, and governments to Jesus,
Who is Peace (Eph 2:14).

Monday DANCING IN THE STREETS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/21/2009

"Here He comes springing across the mountains." —Song of Songs 2:8

Tuesday "MARY" CHRISTMAS
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/22/2009

"All ages to come shall call me blessed." —Luke 1:48

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

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

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

December 20 Isaiah 58-60
December 21 Isaiah 61-64
December 22 Isaiah 65-66

Who Am I In Christ?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/WhoAmIInChrist.asp

Spiritual Warfare
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/Warfare.asp

Thankful to be Catholic
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ThankfulCath.asp

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

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

I am a Cameroonian of age 32, for 7 years now, i have been
suffering from growth and i find it difficult to bear children ,
also, for a year now and a half i have catarrh.Please i beg
you to put me into serious prayer let God's will be done in
my life. Thanks and God bless you.
(E., Bamenda, North West , Cameroon, 12/19/2009 11:21:07 AM)

Blessed Mother, Our Mother, place Your Protective Mantle
arournd born and unborn children, Your Holy Church and Your
Catholic Faithful. Please continue to step on satan's head until
it is finally crushed. Thank You for all Your past help, current
help and future help. In the Most Holy and Powerful name of
Jesus and Mary let us pray always. Amen.,,,God Bless You,,,,
Have a Holy Christmas,,,,,
(Anonymous, 12/19/2009 10:43:53 AM)

for jay parker to be called back to work. husband pain on side
of head to stop and healing of memories. All the ill on st.damian
parish healing mind body and soul. for our country for blessing
from God our father. our grand daughter megan has fever
healing for her. Her birth is tomorrow she will be 2yr. blessing
on her and family thks all God's prayer partner. Merry Christmas.
(tg, 12/19/2009 10:07:01 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

LOVE AND TRUTH

"A GREAT CHALLENGE"

Love in truth ... is a great challenge for the Church in a world
that is becoming progressively and pervasively globalized. The
risk for our time is that the de facto interdependence of people
and nations is not matched by ethical interaction of consciences
and minds that would give rise to truly human development. Only
in charity, illumined by the light of reason and faith, is it possible
to pursue development goals that possess of more humane and
humanizing value. (9)

"PRINCIPAL DRIVING FORCE"

Charity in truth, to which Jesus Christ bore witness by His
earthly life and especially by His death and resurrection, is
the principal driving force behind the authentic development
of every person and of all humanity. (1)

"TRUE LIFE"

The search for love and truth is purified and liberated by Jesus
Christ from the impoverishment that our humanity brings to it,
and He reveals to us in all its fullness the initiative of love and
the plan for true life that God has prepared for us. (1)

(Source: Encyclical Caritas in veritate, dated June 29, 2009)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2009-11.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

· Who Am I in Christ? (Feb 12-13)
· Women's Retreat (Mar 20)

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

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JESUS, PEACE ON EARTH - One Bread, One Body, 12/20/2009

Did you know Presentation Ministries has a Bible College called Our Lady
of Guadalupe Bible College (GBC)? Home study is available. For more
information visit:

http://www.presentationministries.com/gbc/InfoStart.asp

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Sunday, December 20, 2009, Fourth Sunday of Advent

Micah 5:1-4, Hebrews 10:5-10, Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19, Luke 1:39-45
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/122009.shtml

JESUS, PEACE ON EARTH

"He shall be peace." —Micah 5:4

The angels heralding Jesus' birth proclaimed "Peace on earth" as Peace
Incarnate entered the world (Lk 2:14). In doing the will of God the Father
(Heb 10:7), Jesus, the Ruler, brings peace to His people (Mi 5:1, 4).
Jesus our Peace (Eph 2:14) comes to bring peace. When He appeared to His
apostles on the evening of His resurrection, Jesus' first words were
"Peace be with you" (Jn 20:19).

How ironic and sad that Peace should be hunted down by the government as
an Infant (Mt 2:16), forced to flee as a Refugee to a foreign land (Mt
2:13ff), and made to live in poverty (2 Cor 8:9). Finally, Peace was
persecuted, brutalized, and crucified. Jesus is still hunted down and
crucified by present-day governments. For example, Jesus was ejected from
the American public schools. Decades later, some high schools hire armed
guards to try to keep the peace. How many acts of violence have been
committed in the public schools since Peace was thrown out? Jesus laments
to all who reject Him: "If only you had known the path of peace this day;
but you have completely lost it from view!" (Lk 19:42)

Do we really want peace on earth? Would we rather have worldly peace,
which is often merely the temporary cessation of war, or true "shalom"
peace, which overturns (see Jn 2:14ff) the world's systems, cultures,
societies, and lifestyles? True world peace can be achieved only by
opening our lives, homes, social structures, schools, institutions, and
governments to Jesus, Who is Peace (Eph 2:14).

Prayer: Jesus, "Prince of Peace" (Is 9:5), let there be peace on earth,
and let it begin with me receiving You as Lord of my life.

Promise: "We have been sanctified through the offering of the body of
Jesus Christ once for all." —Heb 10:10

Praise: "O Key of David, O royal Power of Israel, controlling at Your will
the gate of heaven!"

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

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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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Saturday, December 19, 2009

DOUBT AND DO WITHOUT - One Bread, One Body, 12/19/2009

Did you know Presentation Ministries has a Bible College called Our Lady
of Guadalupe Bible College (GBC)? Home study is available. For more
information visit:

http://www.presentationministries.com/gbc/InfoStart.asp

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Saturday, December 19, 2009

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25, Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17, Luke 1:5-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121909.shtml

DOUBT AND DO WITHOUT

"Now you will be mute — unable to speak — until the day these things take
place, because you have not trusted my words." —Luke 1:20

We see many people who are spiritually deaf and dumb. The Lord has
repeatedly proclaimed His love for them and warned them, but still they
waltz into Christmas as if there were no Christ, no sin, no salvation, no
meaning to life, and no eternal life. These people are spiritually deaf.
Many others, even Christians, are spiritually dumb. They can talk about
anything but Jesus. Christ is the only One given the "silent treatment" at
Christmas, although Christmas is intended to celebrate His birthday.

Although it's rather easy to recognize spiritual deafness and dumbness in
others, people may be noticing it in us. To be freed from this condition,
we must find the cause of it. Possibly the cause of our spiritual deafness
and dumbness is the same as the cause of Zechariah's physical deafness and
dumbness. Because Zechariah doubted the angel's message, he was struck
deaf and dumb (Lk 1:18ff). He was healed when he showed faith in the
angel's message by naming his child John (Lk 1:63-64).

Have we succumbed to temptations to doubt? Have we let ourselves be
infected by the skepticism of our secular culture? Is doubt the cause of
our unwillingness to hear God and our inability to speak up for Him?
Repent of doubt and watch what other areas of your life are transformed.

Prayer: Father, may I not persist in my "unbelief, but believe" (Jn
20:27).

Promise: "The boy grew up and the Lord blessed him; the Spirit of the Lord
first stirred him." —Jgs 13:24-25

Praise: "O Flower of Jesse's stem, You have been raised up as a Sign for
all peoples."

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

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

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Friday, December 18, 2009

JUST CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/18/2009

Friday, December 18, 2009

Jeremiah 23:5-8, Psalm 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19, Matthew 1:18-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121809.shtml

JUST CHRISTMAS

"I will raise up a righteous Shoot to David." —Jeremiah 23:5

Jeremiah prophesied the coming of a King in the line of David. "This is
the name they give Him: 'The Lord our Justice' " (Jer 23:6). This King
named Justice would set His people free from exile in Babylon as He had
previously set them free from slavery in Egypt (Jer 23:7-8).

At first, Jesus' coming seemed to contradict rather than fulfill
Jeremiah's prophecy. It is a severe injustice that Jesus had nowhere to be
born but in a stable. Herod added further injustice and oppression by
forcing the holy family to flee to Egypt. The circumstances surrounding
Jesus' coming were not justice and freedom, but injustice and oppression.
The situation grew worse because the greatest injustice ever committed was
Jesus' crucifixion and death on Calvary. Paradoxically, by accepting that
injustice, Jesus made it possible for all people to be justified.

We also may feel that gross injustices in our world contradict Christ's
promises for Christmas. Even in our personal lives, we may have been
expecting justice, freedom, peace, and love. Instead, we suffered
injustice and other evils. However, if we can be like Joseph and Mary by
trusting the Lord, He will make all things work together for the good (Rm
8:28), and we will see the glory of Christ this Christmas season. No
matter how bad things are, believe the Lord will have the final word this
Christmas season. He proclaims: "I, the Lord, have called you for the
victory of justice" (Is 42:6). "Justice shall flower in His days" (Ps
72:7).

Prayer: Father, may I trust You especially when I don't understand what's
happening in my life.

Promise: " 'The virgin shall be with Child and give birth to a Son, and
they shall call Him Emmanuel,' a name which means 'God is with us' " —Mt
1:23

Praise: "O sacred Lord of ancient Israel, You showed Yourself to Moses in
the burning bush and gave him the holy law on Sinai Mountain."

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Thursday, December 17, 2009

I LOVE JESUS' GENES - One Bread, One Body, 12/17/2009

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Psalm 72:1-4, 7-8, 17, Matthew 1:1-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121709.shtml

I LOVE JESUS' GENES

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

I've often heard parishioners express discontent about having to listen to
today's Gospel litany of name after name in the genealogy of Jesus. Church
attendees seem bored with the genealogy.

Genealogy, however, is riding a wave of popularity at present. One of the
primary uses of the Internet is genealogical research. I know three
individuals who "have carefully traced" (Lk 1:3) their family histories
back hundreds of years. To these individuals, genealogies are exciting,
not boring. They spent countless hours researching their beloved family
lineage. They rejoice when they find another entry in their family tree.
Each member of the family adds to their own sense of identity and history.
Each family member is precious to them and is important to the
understanding of the whole family, because there is a personal connection
involved. It's part of who they are.

Do we love Jesus' family more than genealogy enthusiasts love theirs? Do
we even realize that we are members of Jesus' family? (Mk 3:35) Is your
personal connection with Jesus such that you delight in any detail about
His life, including details about His family? Do you love those Jesus
loves? (1 Jn 4:20-21)

You have been baptized into Jesus' family! (Rm 6:3) Rejoice in your family
tree! Love Jesus more personally.

Prayer: Father, thank You for making me Your child and making me a sharer
in Your divine nature (2 Pt 1:4).

Promise: "Justice shall flower in His days, and profound peace, till the
moon be no more." —Ps 72:7

Praise: "O Wisdom, O holy Word of God, You govern all creation with Your
strong yet tender care."

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

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Wednesday, December 16, 2009

A TRIP - One Bread, One Body, 12/16/2009

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25, Psalm 85:9-14, Luke 7:18-23
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121609.shtml

A TRIP

" 'Are You "He Who is to come" or are we to expect someone else?' When the
men came to Him they said, 'John the Baptizer sends us to You with this
question: Are You "He Who is to come?" ' " —Luke 7:19-20

Christmas means not just recalling Christ's first coming and preparing for
His second coming. It also means receiving a new coming of Christ into our
lives. Many of us have already asked Jesus to come into our hearts and be
Lord of our lives. We have also experienced other comings of Christ, but
this Christmas the Lord will come again to us in a personal and new way.

However, it can be difficult to recognize Christ's coming. At His first
coming, Jesus came in the womb of a teenage girl from Nazareth and hardly
anyone recognized Him. Jesus often comes to us in the poor, hungry, ill,
or imprisoned. Even so, we may not recognize Him and later ask Him: "When
did we see You hungry or thirsty or away from home or naked or ill or in
prison?" (Mt 25:44) John the Baptizer's disciples weren't sure whether
Jesus' coming was the coming of the Messiah, so "John sent them to ask the
Lord, 'Are You "He Who is to come" or are we to expect someone else?' "
(Lk 7:19) Jesus responded: "The blind recover their sight, cripples walk,
lepers are cured, the deaf hear, dead men are raised to life, and the poor
have the good news preached to them. Blest is that man who finds no
stumbling block in Me" (Lk 7:22-23).

Jesus' Christmas coming will either result in our receiving Jesus' love in
even greater ways or stumbling over Someone we don't even notice. Don't
trip.

Prayer: Father, may I not trip over Jesus.

Promise: "Let justice descend, O heavens, like dew from above, like gentle
rain let the skies drop it down." —Is 45:8

Praise: When volunteering at the food pantry, Mary practices seeing Jesus
in those who come in need.

(Will you volunteer for the Lord through Presentation Ministries? There
are many needs and ways you can serve the Lord. Call 937-587-5464 for more
information.)

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Tuesday, December 15, 2009

JUST DO IT? - One Bread, One Body, 12/15/2009

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13, Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-19, 23, Matthew 21:28-32
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121509.shtml

JUST DO IT?

"Which of the two did what the father wanted?" —Matthew 21:31

As we near Christmas, we mistakenly think we have so many things we need
to do. Here are a few things which really must be done before Christmas:
* "Repent and believe in Him [Jesus]" (Mt 21:32).
* Do what our Father wants (Mt 21:31).
* "Go out and work in the vineyard" (Mt 21:28).
* Hear God's voice and accept correction (Zep 3:2).
* Trust in God and draw near to Him (Zep 3:2).
* Let the Lord change and purify our lips (Zep 3:9).
* "Call upon the name of the Lord, to serve Him with one accord" (Zep
3:9).

The good news is that we don't have to do all that we thought we had to
before Christmas. As nice as they are, we can get along without Christmas
presents, parties, cards, cakes, and cookies. Mary, Joseph and Jesus did
without them at the first Christmas. Even today, most of the world can't
afford these niceties.

The good news is also that the to-do items listed above need not be done
by our own power. Like Mary, we only must let it be done to us according
to God's word (Lk 1:38).

Prayer: Father, let Your Son Jesus be Lord of my life and of my Christmas.

Promise: "I will leave as a remnant in your midst a people humble and
lowly, who shall take refuge in the name of the Lord." —Zep 3:12

Praise: Going to Confession during Advent is a priority for Margaret.

(Resolve to give as a present to the Lord your presence at one or more of
the retreats given at the Paul Jansen Discipleship Center this year. You
can find a listing of all the retreats at www.presentationministries.com
or call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397 to register or for information.)

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Monday, December 14, 2009

AUTHORIZATION CODE - One Bread, One Body, 12/14/2009

Monday, December 14, 2009, St. John of the Cross

Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17, Psalm 25:4-9, Matthew 21:23-27
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121409.shtml

AUTHORIZATION CODE

"On what authority are You [Jesus] doing these things? Who has given You
this power? " —Matthew 21:23

There are two ways to ask the above questions. One way is to honestly
examine the astounding works Jesus did and to humbly seek out the source
of His power (see Acts 17:11). Such an individual wants to know Jesus'
ultimate authority because he wishes to submit to it. This person can be
said to be seeking the Father.

Another way to ask these questions is not so much to find out the true
answer, but to inquire with the aim of handcuffing Jesus and preventing
Him from exercising further authority. Such individuals wish to control
their own lives, and don't want interference from Jesus or the heavenly
Father (see Jn 5:40). As long as the Lord allows things to go as they
prefer, they will allow Him to continue to work in their lives. When the
Lord takes authority in a manner opposed to their will, they start asking
questions. Modern versions of these 2000-year-old questions might be:
* "My sins aren't as bad as hers. Who are these people to say I should
go to Confession?"
* "Who gave the Church the right to say that I can't use birth
control?"
* "So I cheated on my taxes. The Church gets enough money from me. Who
does Father Smith think he is to tell me how to run my finances?"

Sadly, when we question Jesus for the purpose of tying His hands in our
lives, He will respect our decision for quite some time — before He
exercises final authority on Judgment Day. May many thousands of people
accept Jesus' authority today, while they still have time.

Prayer: Father, have Your way in my life. I am all Yours.

Promise: "Good and upright is the Lord; thus He shows sinners the
way." —Ps 25:8

Praise: It was in the darkest prison that St. John wrote some of his most
beautiful work.

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

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Sunday, December 13, 2009

PM eNewsletter Third Sunday of Advent

December 13th Third Sunday of Advent

Jesus as we get closer to the greatest moment in all of history,
Your birth.

Let us stop all the Christmas preparation, and come and just sit
with You in adoration.

Let us just sit before the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings and let
us just be in awe of the fact, that You are really present in the Most
Blessed Eucharist.

You love us so much that You want us to eat the Bread of Life, and
slowly become truly Christ to others.

Let us see in the breaking of the Bread, the love, the help and the
healing that You always give us.

Let us become new creations in, to and through You. Amen and Amen.

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday "REJOICE SUNDAY"
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/13/2009

"With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation." —Isaiah 12:3

Today is "Gaudete Sunday" or "Rejoice Sunday." We are rejoicing
because Jesus is real and Christmas is real. We will receive Jesus'
love in an ever deeper way this Christmas season, which will begin
in just twelve days. Christmas is not just a holiday when we engage
in various customs and ceremonies. Christmas is not merely
recalling the past but experiencing Jesus' love in the present.

Therefore, we can hardly help but "shout for joy" and "sing joyfully"
(Zep 3:14). We are "glad and exult with all" our hearts (Zep 3:14).
Considering the reality of Christmas, we must "rejoice in the Lord
always! I say it again. Rejoice!" (Phil 4:4)

The Lord Himself does not just observe our joy but rejoices with us.
"The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty Savior; He will rejoice
over you with gladness, and renew you in His love, He will sing
joyfully because of you, as one sings at festivals" (Zep 3:17-18). In
fact, we can rejoice with Jesus' joy (Jn 15:11). We can have
"complete" joy (Jn 15:11), which no one can take from us (Jn 16:22).
The rejoicing in our lives and even in our cities can rise to fever
pitch (Acts 8:8).

Happy "Rejoice Sunday"!

Monday AUTHORIZATION CODE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/14/2009

"On what authority are You [Jesus] doing these things? Who
has given You this power? " —Matthew 21:23

Tuesday JUST DO IT?
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/15/2009

"Which of the two did what the father wanted?" —Matthew 21:31

For more readings and inspiration from Presentation Ministries,
check us out at
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Brochures

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

This Week's Featured Brochures

MARY—WHO IS SHE IN GOD'S PLAN?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/MotherMary.asp

"When the designated time had come, God sent forth His Son
born of a woman." —Galatians 4:4

Catholics and the Orthodox maintain Mary is the most
important human being in God's plan, except for her Son, the
God-Man, Jesus. Others think that by ...............................

An Isaiah Advent
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December 13 Isaiah 40-42
December 14 Isaiah 43-45
December 15 Isaiah 46-48
December 16 Isaiah 49-51
December 17 Isaiah 52-53
December 18 Isaiah 54-55
December 19 Isaiah 56-57
December 20 Isaiah 58-60

Accepting Jesus As Lord, Savior, And God
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/AccJesus.asp

"For if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord, and believe
in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be
saved." —Romans 10:9

Who Am I In Christ?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/WhoAmIInChrist.asp

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

Dear father in heaven, I ask for your healing over my father
today. Lord he is really sick in the hospital and the suspected
prognosis for his condition is really bad. Lord please have
mercy on his soul and allow him to return to us will health and
strength to be your humble servant. Lord please help at this
time when he needs you
(N., 12/12/2009 3:41:04 AM)

dear all I seek the parayers of all brothers and sisters for the
fast recovery of My Brother Mr Augustine who is hospitalised
at C M C VELLORE , for the past 7 months after a very serious
accident
(M., hyderabd, a p, India, 12/12/2009 3:36:36 AM)

Heavenly Father I'm asking you with faith for employment for
both my daughter & her husband. My daughter has a master's
degree in Business. I'm also asking you for employment for all
your children who are in need of a job. Thank You Father &
Mother for hearing my plea.
(Mom, TX, 12/11/2009 10:25:15 PM)

Please protect us from Satans Elite.
(Anonymous, 12/11/2009 9:06:24 PM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp
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MP3 4 You

Take a moment and check the link below
http://presentationministries.com/tapes/tape.asp?pubID=269
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Small Christian Communities

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

PM's Small Christian Community Network

Learn about the Communities in our Network
http://presentationministries.com/community/hbcNetwork.asp

Small Christian Community Resources

Introduction to Small Christian Community
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/IntroCommunity.asp

"Unless the Lord Build the House..." — Psalm 127:
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/UnlessTheLordBuild.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Team Manual)
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityManual.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Guide Book)
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For more information contact: community@presentationministries.com
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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
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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

LOVE AND TRUTH

TRUTH AND CHARITY

Truth needs to be sought, found, and expressed within the
"economy" of charity, but charity in its turn needs to be
understood, confirmed and practiced in the light of truth In
this way, ...we do service to charity, enlightened by truth,
but we also help give credibility to truth, demonstrating its
persuasive and authenticating power in the practical
setting of social living. (2)

"MEANING AND VALUE"

Only in truth does charity shine forth, only in truth can
charity be authentically lived. Truth is the light that gives
meaning and value to charity. (3)

LIBERATION POWER

Truth preserves and expresses charity's power to liberate
in the ever-changing events of history. (5)

(Source: Encyclical Caritas in veritate, dated June 29, 2009)

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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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2009 RETREATS
Online Registration

2009 RETREATS

· Who Am I in Christ? (Feb 12-13)
· Women's Retreat (Mar 20)

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