Acts 14:21-27, Revelation 21:1-5, Psalm 145:8-13, John 13:31-33, 34-35
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SERIOUS BUSINESS
"We must undergo many trials if we are to enter into the reign of
God." —Acts 14:22
St. Paul had recently been stoned, dragged out of town, and left for dead
(Acts 14:19). After being raised up and continuing his work, he gave his
"disciples reassurances, and encouraged them to persevere in the faith"
(Acts 14:22). When someone who's black and blue, with patches of hair
pulled out, and an eye swollen shut talks about reassurances,
perseverance, trials, and God's kingdom, he has credibility. He has
already practiced what he's preaching.
Then Paul "installed presbyters and, with prayer and fasting, commended
them to the Lord in Whom they had put their faith" (Acts 14:23). Paul was
not well-groomed, handsome, and dressed in fine vestments as he led this
prayer service. When the person praying over you has cuts all over his
hands and face and has a couple teeth missing, the prayer takes on more
meaning. We're not just being prayed for to be blessed, but to be
sacrificed.
Finally, Paul returned to Antioch, the church which had sent him and
Barnabas on this first missionary journey. "On their arrival, they called
the congregation together and related all that God had helped them
accomplish, and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles" (Acts
14:27). Obviously this was not just a committee report. The congregation
couldn't help but notice Paul's condition and realize that making
disciples of all nations and being Church was more serious than they had
ever suspected.
Prayer: Father, free me from any misconception about Christianity.
Promise: "There shall be no more death or mourning, crying out or
pain." —Rv 21:4
Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus! Your ultimate self-sacrifice opened the
way to the Father. Alleluia!
(Jesus gave us the authority and responsibility to pray always. The
retreat "Intercession & Healing" on May 21-22 helps us grow in these
gifts. Call 937-587-5464 to register.)
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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 April
1, 2010 through May 31, 2010
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, October 9, 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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