Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]: September 2011

Friday, September 30, 2011

VOICE LESSONS - One Bread, One Body, 9/30/2011

Friday, September 30, 2011, St. Jerome

Baruch 1:15-22, Psalm 79:1-5, 8-9, Luke 10:13-16
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/093011.cfm

VOICE LESSONS

"We have been disobedient to the Lord, our God, and only too ready to disregard His voice." -Baruch 1:19

Jesus commented that His sheep "recognize His voice" and "follow Him" (Jn 10:4). Jesus' followers "will not follow a stranger; such a one they will flee, because they do not recognize a stranger's voice" (Jn 10:5).

Sometimes the Lord's voice is not easy to hear. Jesus speaks softly, not crying out (Mt 12:19). The Lord often speaks most powerfully in "a still small voice" (1 Kgs 19:12, RSV-CE). Like Mary of Bethany, we must choose the best part, put everything aside, sit at Jesus' feet, and listen to His voice (Lk 10:39). We must repent of disregarding His voice and diligently listen for it. We must shut off the TV and turn off our computers. If we don't turn off the voices of those competing with God for our attention, those voices may prevail (see Lk 23:23ff). We must rise early while it is still quiet and listen for His voice. Otherwise, we will be "only too ready to disregard His voice" (Bar 1:19).

"Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ" (Catechism, 133) and of His voice. We will hear His voice if we are committed to hearing Him and committed to the truth (Jn 18:37).

On Judgment Day, all will hear and recognize Jesus' voice (Jn 5:28). Then it will be too late to repent and change (Jn 5:29). Will Judgment Day be the first time you recognize His voice? "Oh, that today you would hear His voice" (Ps 95:7).

Prayer: Jesus, like St. John the Baptizer, I will listen for you and rejoice greatly at the sound of Your voice (Jn 3:29).

Promise: "He who hears you, hears Me." -Lk 10:16

Praise: St. Jerome, after studying Latin and Greek, becoming an orator and touring Gaul, heard the call and was baptized. He used his skills to translate the Word of God so that many could hear the voice of their Lord.

(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 August 1, 2011 through September 30, 2011
?Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 1, 2011

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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Thursday, September 29, 2011

ANGELS NOW MORE THAN EVER - One Bread, One Body, 9/29/2011

Thursday, September 29, 2011, 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/bible/readings/092911.cfm

ANGELS NOW MORE THAN EVER

"Thousands upon thousands were ministering to Him." -Daniel 7:10

Today's feast day honors the archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, the only angels mentioned by name in the Bible. We thank God for these three archangels. We need them now more than ever.

The only way to understand nearly forty years of killing millions of babies through abortion and the collapse of marriage and family life is to realize that "our battle is not against human forces" but against the devil (Eph 6:12). We need Michael to fulfill his part in God's plan of salvation: to fight and defeat the devil (Rv 12:7-9).

Our society is smothered in bad news. Daily we gorge ourselves on it. We rejoice in what is wrong rather than in the truth (1 Cor 13:6). In a world of faithless confusion, we need the light and good news of Gabriel (see Dn 9:21; Lk 1:26).

The blindness of sin is so pervasive in our society. When we refuse to repent, we even blind ourselves and become blind to being blind (see Is 29:9). Under these circumstances, we need Raphael to open our eyes (see Tb 11:7ff).

All angels are sent by God to serve us "who are to inherit salvation" (Heb 1:14). We are in great need, and God has provided angelic servants for us. Employ these mighty creatures to help you serve the Lord.

Prayer: Father, You created angels for good reason. May I let them be fully active in my life.

Promise: "You shall see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." -Jn 1:51

Praise: "It was I who presented and read the record of your prayer...I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who enter and serve before the Glory of the Lord" (Tb 12:12, 15).

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

I SIMPLY LOVE TO REPAIR - One Bread, One Body, 9/28/2011

Wednesday, September 28, 2011, St. Wenceslaus, St. Lawrence Ruiz & Companions

Nehemiah 2:1-8, Psalm 137:1-6, Luke 9:57-62
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092811.cfm

I SIMPLY LOVE TO REPAIR

"How could I not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been eaten out by fire?" -Nehemiah 2:3

Nehemiah was noticeably sad because Jerusalem and its walls needed major repairs. Those promoting devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus have repeatedly emphasized the need for reparation, that is, repairing a world broken and shattered by sin. We hear a lot today about brokenness, broken hearts, and shattered lives. If we really care, we should be concerned about repairing what has been broken.

Of course, we are quite concerned about repairing some things. We want our cars, appliances, and houses repaired. However, these repairs take up so much of our time, energy, and resources that we are not too concerned about repairing God's Church and His people (see Hg 1:2-4). This situation shows that we need to simplify our lives greatly. The more possessions we have, the more we have to repair. The more things we have to repair, the less time we may give to repairing God's Church.

If we truly love God and His people, we will be in the repair business. We will be doing penance to repair the effects of sin. To do repairs for God, we must simplify our lives. Therefore, if we simplify, we show our love for the brokenhearted and for the Lord of the brokenhearted (see Ps 34:19). Simplify; repair; love.

Prayer: Father, grace me to renew and repair Your Church, as St. Teresa and St. Francis did. May I be a "repairer of the breach" and a "restorer of ruined homesteads" (Is 58:12).

Promise: "Jesus said to him, 'The foxes have lairs, the birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.' To another He said, 'Come after Me.' " -Lk 9:58-59

Praise: After being accused of a crime in the Philippines, St. Lawrence fled his homeland. He ultimately laid down his life for Jesus in martyrdom in Nagasaki, Japan.

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Tuesday, September 27, 2011

LIGHTEN UP! - One Bread, One Body, 9/27/2011

Tuesday, September 27, 2011, St. Vincent de Paul

Zechariah 8:20-23, Psalm 87:1-7, Luke 9:51-56
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092711.cfm

LIGHTEN UP!

"In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold, yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, 'Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.' " -Zechariah 8:23

Jesus always attracted people to Himself. The rich, poor, pagans, religious, sinners, and other groups of people flocked to Jesus in great crowds. Much like a bright light attracts insects at night, Jesus, "the Light of the World" (Jn 9:5), attracts people.

As disciples of Jesus, we "possess the light of life" (Jn 8:12). We "are the light of the world" (Mt 5:14) because we are in Jesus the Light. Since Jesus shines through us, people will be attracted to us (cf Zec 8:23) and thus to Jesus through us.

Why aren't people flocking en masse to our churches? One possibility is that we, Jesus' disciples, aren't living in His light. Our worldly lifestyle blinds us to the light (2 Cor 4:4) and dulls our sensitivity to the seriousness of our sins. Thus, we become opaque and the light of Jesus doesn't shine brightly through us.

Repent! Die to yourself (Jn 12:24), take up your cross anew each day (Lk 9:23), and be crucified to the world (Gal 6:14). "Awake, O sleeper, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light" (Eph 5:14). Let Jesus remove your opaqueness and make you transparent. "Live as children of light" (Eph 5:8) and let Jesus use you as a lighthouse to bring many thousands to Himself.

Prayer: Jesus, consume me with the fire of Your love (Heb 12:29). May nations walk by Your light shining through me (Is 60:3).

Promise: "Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem." -Zec 8:22

Praise: St. Vincent was sold into slavery but miraculously escaped two years later. He continues to inspire and be a light as he guides others to be generous to the poor and needy.

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

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Monday, September 26, 2011

THE GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE - One Bread, One Body, 9/26/2011

Monday, September 26, 2011, Sts. Cosmas & Damian

Zechariah 8:1-8, Psalm 102:16-21, 29, 22-23, Luke 9:46-50
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092611.cfm

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

The people of Jerusalem had been disobeying God for centuries. Zechariah prophesied the impossible: that the people of that city and maybe even our cities would be faithful and holy (Zec 8:3). The Lord said that even if this seemed impossible to everyone else, it was not impossible for Him.

At one of the greatest moments in the history of the human race, when God became man in Mary's womb, the archangel Gabriel concluded his revelation to Mary with the words: "Nothing is impossible with God" (Lk 1:37). After Jesus said how difficult it was for a rich man to enter His kingdom, He added: "For man it is impossible; but for God all things are possible" (Mt 19:26). The Lord proclaimed through the prophet Jeremiah: "I am the Lord, the God of all mankind! Is anything impossible to Me?" (Jer 32:27)

God is God of the impossible. He is God of the Incarnation, Resurrection, Ascension, and Pentecost. He is God of new birth through Baptism and of heavenly Bread in the Eucharist. We have seen God do the impossible daily, personally, and intentionally. He does more than we can ever ask or imagine (Eph 3:20). Because God is God of the impossible, we need never lose hope. We can rejoice in Him always (Phil 4:4) and praise Him always. He is God of the impossible.

Prayer: Father, through the intercession of St. Jude, may I believe in and receive the impossible.

Promise: "Whoever welcomes this little child on My account welcomes Me, and whoever welcomes Me welcomes Him Who sent Me." -Lk 9:48

Praise: Sts. Cosmas and Damian were not only brothers by birth; they were brothers in the Lord who served the needs of the poor with great sacrifice.

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Sunday, September 25, 2011

PM eNewsletter 26th Sunday in ordinary time

September 25th, 26th Sunday in ordinary time

This week, oh! Jesus, we celebrate three of Your archangels.

St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael, they are faithful servants who always do what You
want done.

Help us to please develop that attitude that we will be willing to always do Your will in all
of the situations of our life.

Help us to reach out to others, especially those who are troubled.

Help us to be a guide for them that brings them to You for the gifts they need to walk in
life with dignity and peace.

Help us to be willing to be messengers of the good news to all You put in our lives.

Thank You Jesus for loving us.

Amen and Amen.

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
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For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the home page of Presentation Ministries?
Please take a look.
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday "OBEDIENCE IS BETTER..." (1 Sm 15:22)
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/25/2011

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

We Christians have told God we will obey Him, but many of us haven't. We have persisted in
mass disobedience for years. Unbelievers have told God they will not obey Him, but many of
them have changed their minds and do what God wants. Jesus said: "I assure you that tax
collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you" (Mt 21:31). "None
of those who cry out, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of God but only the one who does
the will of My Father in heaven" (Mt 7:21).

"Obedience is better than sacrifice" (1 Sm 15:22), although sacrifice is so important the
Father sent His Son to be sacrificed on Calvary for us. Jesus obediently accepted even
death on the cross (Phil 2:8). Through His "obedience all shall become just" (Rm 5:19).
If we love Jesus, we will obey His commands (Jn 14:15). We will even lead "a life of
obedience" (1 Pt 1:2) and delight in obeying the Lord's commands (Ps 40:9).

Repent. Go to Confession. Decide to obey God all the time in every way. Partial obedience
is a euphemism for disobedience. No matter how weak you have been for years, God will
always give you the grace to obey. Break out of prisons of disobedience. Obey God now.

Monday THE GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/26/2011

"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 LIGHTEN UP!
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/27/2011

"In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold,
yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, 'Let us go with you, for
we have heard that God is with you.' " -Zechariah 8:23

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

· The Secret of the Rosary
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SecretRosary.asp

· The Secret of Confession
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/SecretConfession.asp

"Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has
prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)

The daughter of a Baptist minister becomes a Catholic because of the opportunity to go to
confession. A Presbyterian pastor involved in the healing ministry publicly announces his
wish that his church have the Sacrament of Reconciliation. A middle-aged mother of ......

· Who Cares?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/WhoCares.asp

· Mission Impossible?
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/MissionImpossible.asp

· The Lord Laughs
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/TheLordLaughs.asp

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

( check out BTL 3 sections below for another way of sharing prayers)

Please help me. I don't know how much longer I can take the pain of my daughter's death
and the betrayal she suffered right before she died. Please help SA to feel true sorrow
and repentance for what he did to her. Please let it be a burden upon his heart until he
changes for the better. Not for the sake of guilt, but that it changes his own life so
that it truly honors her memory as well as glorifying God. An apology to her parents
would be appreciated. He has received the Sacraments. I believe that he knows what to do.
Thank you.
(Carol, Arizona, 9/24/2011 8:17:03 PM)

For my son as he contemplates replacement of both his hips, that he will place his
undivided Trust in Jesus.Jesus I Trust in YOU!
(Ken, Texas, 9/24/2011 7:03:14 PM)

Fear is useless. LORD please look kindly on the petitions in this prayer site and all
the requests said silently in our hearts. LORD lend me your heart and take mine in for
repairs. Let me forgive, forget and finalize. Thank you
(Jim, Wisconsin, 9/24/2011 2:54:30 PM)

Oh Jesus and Mary, as you know so well that my parents want me to study further by taking
up M.Phil or PhD. However i am in a great turmoil because i have not got through anywhere,
I am unable to decide whether to take my studies further or just settle with a job. I
don't feel competent enough to pursue higher studies and am let down by by my own laziness
and discouragement. PLEASE Help !!! Reveal Your Plans to me...Jesus let Thy Will be done!!!
(T.J., 9/24/2011 2:02:52 PM)

Please watch over my truest love Mike and allow our love to Magnify the Lord's love for us
(Joy Thanksgiving, New York, NY, United States, 9/24/2011 12:20:56 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
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Small Christian Communities

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

PM's Small Christian Community Network

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

Small Christian Community Resources

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

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

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

Building Small Christian Communities (Guide Book)
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityGuidebook.asp

For more information contact: community@presentationministries.com
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Bible Telephone Line

New Technology for Bible Telephone Line Ministry
Local Numbers Double Practically Overnight!

The Bible Telephone Line (BTL) has been in operation for 19 years. Begun by Fr. Al
in 1991, it now continues with three teachers trained by him and by Presentation
Ministries. In cities where local numbers have been established, the BTL provides
callers with a short teaching on the readings for the daily Mass. It is available 24
hours a day and 7 days a week. Callers may also leave a short prayer request which
will be shared on the line with the other callers the next day.

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

Akron, OH 330 344-9180
Baltimore, MD 443 529-8282
Bismarck, ND 701 595-5300
Boston, MA 508 591-0911
Cincinnati, OH 513 823-3111
Cleveland, OH 440 572-4366
Columbus, OH 614 210-3111
Detroit, MI 734 418-9101
Fort Worth, TX 817 203-3933
Indianapolis, IN 317 564-9292
Jupiter, FL 561 768-4321
Lexington, KY 859 554-1500
Long Island, NY 631 317-2200
Los Angeles, CA 323 984-7500
Louisville, KY 502 694-3131
Miami, FL 305 520-9922
Pittsburg, PA 412 228-0228
Phoenix, AZ 480 630-3999
St. Augustine, FL 904 414-4142
St Louis, MO 314 561-7411
San Diego, CA 619 272-6111
Toledo, OH 419 318-2211
Toronto, Ontario 647 723-9923
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Listen Online!
Inspired teaching on the daily Scripture readings of the Catholic Church by Fr. Al Lauer

Best of Daily Bread Radio Program
http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp
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Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-09.asp?navlink=latest

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

PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL

GO AND PROCLAIM

The Liturgy is always a call "from the world" and a new missionary mandate "in the
world" in order to witness to what has been experienced: the saving power of the
word of God, the saving power of Christ's Paschal Mystery

SHARE THE GOOD NEWS

The Gospel is not an exclusive possession of whoever has received it but a gift to
share, good news to communicate. And this gift -commitment is not only entrusted
to a few but ... to all the baptized, who are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood,
a holy nation, God's own people" (1 Pt 2:9), so that they may declare His wondrous
deeds.

ESSENTIAL MISSION

Attention to and cooperation in the Church's evangelizing work in the world cannot
be limited to a few moments or special occasions nor can they be considered as one
of the many pastoral activities: the Church's missionary dimension is essential
and must ...always be borne in mind.

(Souce: Message for World Mission Sunday, 1/6/11)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-09.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

John Paul Speaks
http://presentationministries.com/JPS/johnpaulspeaks.asp

My People Newspaper
http://presentationministries.com/mypeople/mypeople24-1.asp?navlink=latest

PM Newsletter
http://presentationministries.com/newsletter/newsletter12-1.asp?navlink=latest

Prophecies from Word Gifts Ministry
http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp

St. John Bosco Youth Group
http://youth.presentationministries.com/

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2011 RETREATS
Online Registration

2011 RETREATS

No retreats are scheduled at this time. Please check back for an updated schedule in the coming weeks.

Can you help us with the construction of the new Chapel and Retreat Center?
http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/chapel.asp

More information and registration for the Bible Institute
http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2011Home.asp

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
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· Sign-up for the OBOB daily e-mail list
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"OBEDIENCE IS BETTER..." (1 Sm 15:22) - One Bread, One Body, 9/25/2011

Sunday, September 25, 2011, 26th Sunday Ordinary Time

Ezekiel 18:25-28, Philippians 2:1-11, Psalm 25:4-9, Matthew 21:28-32
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092511.cfm

"OBEDIENCE IS BETTER..." (1 Sm 15:22)

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

We Christians have told God we will obey Him, but many of us haven't. We have persisted in mass disobedience for years. Unbelievers have told God they will not obey Him, but many of them have changed their minds and do what God wants. Jesus said: "I assure you that tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you" (Mt 21:31). "None of those who cry out, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of God but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven" (Mt 7:21).

"Obedience is better than sacrifice" (1 Sm 15:22), although sacrifice is so important the Father sent His Son to be sacrificed on Calvary for us. Jesus obediently accepted even death on the cross (Phil 2:8). Through His "obedience all shall become just" (Rm 5:19). If we love Jesus, we will obey His commands (Jn 14:15). We will even lead "a life of obedience" (1 Pt 1:2) and delight in obeying the Lord's commands (Ps 40:9).

Repent. Go to Confession. Decide to obey God all the time in every way. Partial obedience is a euphemism for disobedience. No matter how weak you have been for years, God will always give you the grace to obey. Break out of prisons of disobedience. Obey God now.

Prayer: Father, give me a deeper love for You so I will want to repent of disobedience.

Promise: "At Jesus' name every knee must bend in the heavens, on the earth, and under the earth, and every tongue proclaim to the glory of God the Father: JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!" -Phil 2:10-11

Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus, obedient Son of God. Your willingness to do as the Father commands has won our salvation. Glory to You forever!

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Saturday, September 24, 2011

THE CIRCLE OF FIRE - One Bread, One Body, 9/24/2011

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15, Jeremiah 31:10-13, Luke 9:43-45
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092411.cfm

THE CIRCLE OF FIRE

"I will turn their mourning into joy, I will console and gladden them after their sorrows." -Jeremiah 31:13

The chosen people had sinned. Thereby, they had been defeated, debased, and exiled. Jerusalem, its Temple, and the people's lives were in ruins. After generations of degradation, the people could hardly conceive of anything but further devastation.

Possibly you understand too well the condition of the chosen people at the time of the prophet Zechariah. Maybe your life has been one mess after another. Nevertheless, the Lord promises you, as He promised Jerusalem: "I will be for [you] an encircling wall of fire, says the Lord, and I will be the Glory in [your] midst" (Zec 2:9). The Lord is going to protect you and even surround you with His fiery presence. No longer are you going to be marauded, trampled, used, and abused. Your future is to live in God's glory and not in sin, slavery, defeat, shame, and self-hatred.

Therefore, "sing and rejoice...See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the Lord" (Zec 2:14). "Fear not, you shall not be put to shame; you need not blush, for you shall not be disgraced. The shame of your youth you shall forget" (Is 54:4). "No more shall men call you 'Forsaken,' or your land 'Desolate,' but you shall be called 'My Delight,' and your land 'Espoused.' For the Lord delights in you" (Is 62:4). Alleluia! Thank You, Jesus!

Prayer: Father, thank You for hope, healing, and new life.

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

Praise: God delivered Anna from years of living in shame and guilt.

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

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Friday, September 23, 2011

THE COURAGE TO WORK - One Bread, One Body, 9/23/2011

Friday, September 23, 2011, St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Haggai 1:15-2:9, Psalm 43:1-4, Luke 9:18-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092311.cfm

THE COURAGE TO WORK

"Does it not seem like nothing in your eyes?" -Haggai 2:3

It's discouraging to see how bad things have become. It's discouraging to think that even our best efforts are very inadequate and possibly inferior to what we've done before (see Hg 2:3). It's discouraging to have your best work be overshadowed by the damage inflicted for years by the evil one.

But now, "take courage, all you people of the land, says the Lord, and work! For I am with you, says the Lord of hosts" (Hg 2:4). "I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts" (Hg 2:7). "Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the Lord of hosts; and in this place I will give you peace" (Hg 2:9). "For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! plans to give you a future full of hope" (Jer 29:11).

"God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him by your service, past and present, to His holy people" (Heb 6:10). "Despite the increase of sin, grace has far surpassed it" (Rm 5:20). "Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Cor 2:9). Jesus promises: "You will suffer in the world. But take courage! I have overcome the world" (Jn 16:33). Take courage and work!

Prayer: Father, give me hope, encouragement, and zeal to work.

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

Praise: St. Pio's zeal for the Eucharist held him in rapture as he celebrated Mass.

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

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Thursday, September 22, 2011

THE PLEASURES OF GOD - One Bread, One Body, 9/22/2011

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

Drought Plagues Horn Of Africa
Church Appeals For Horn Of Africa
Rain Is Only Part Of The Solution
In Defense of Life: Hard Cases
Christians Called To Evangelize
Prison To Praise: The Angel's Mission
Christian Business Leaders Need To Be Daring

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Thursday, September 22, 2011

Haggai 1:1-8, Psalm 149:1-6, 9, Luke 9:7-9
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092211.cfm

THE PLEASURES OF GOD

"Thus says the Lord of hosts: 'Consider your ways! Go up into the hill country; bring timber, and build the house that I may take pleasure in it.' " -Haggai 1:7-8

If you asked yourself: "Am I happy?", what would be an honest answer? Many people are more busy than blessed (see Hg 1:6), more stuffed than nourished, and more jaded than exhilarated (see Hg 1:6). The more stuff they get, the more empty they become. They have holes in their pockets and, worse than that, holes in their hearts (see Hg 1:6).

We will be happy if we forget our pleasures and try to give God pleasure. We give Him pleasure by seeking first His kingdom (Mt 6:33) and building His house, the Church (Hg 1:8). When we do this, He gives us a share in His pleasures, which truly make us happy. A selfish, pleasure-seeking life is a lonely, compulsive life. A life of giving God pleasure is a life of love and communion.

Happiness is refusing to enjoy pleasures alone, without God. Happiness is giving Him pleasure and sharing only in His pleasures.

Prayer: Father, take pleasure in me. "Pleasing to Him be my theme; I will be glad in the Lord" (Ps 104:34).

Promise: "For the Lord loves His people, and He adorns the lowly with victory. Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy upon their couches; let the high praises of God be in their throats." -Ps 149:4-6

Praise: Linda has learned to offer all she does for God's glory, whether it be her service to the poor or an evening shared with friends.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet "Obedience School" or our tape entitled "Obeying God" on audio AV 62-3 or video V-62.)

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Wednesday, September 21, 2011

I'D LOVE TO ... - One Bread, One Body, 9/21/2011

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Wednesday, September 21, 2011, St. Matthew

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13, Psalm 19:2-5, Matthew 9:9-13
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092111.cfm

I'D LOVE TO ...

"As He moved on, Jesus saw a man named Matthew at his post where taxes were collected. He said to him, 'Follow Me.' " -Matthew 9:9

We hear the Lord knocking on the door and calling us by name (Rv 3:20). We sense something inside drawing us to Jesus. He is still calling today's "Matthews" to follow Him. Nonetheless, we are afraid to say "Yes." We're afraid of what people will think.

It has never been popular to follow Jesus. To be His disciple means becoming a fool in the eyes of the world (1 Cor 4:10). We are afraid and hesitate to follow the Lord because we are not secure in His love. If we knew deep down that He died on the cross out of love for each one of us, we wouldn't worry about playing the fool. We would be afraid not to follow Jesus, instead of afraid to follow Him. When we know we are loved by God Himself, unconditionally, sacrificially, and eternally, we are freed from worldly manipulation and freed for obedience to Jesus.

Jesus again is calling: "Follow Me." Secure in His love, let us come to Him.

Prayer: Father, may I come to know and believe in the love You have for me (1 Jn 4:16).

Promise: "Make every effort to preserve the unity which has the Spirit as its origin and peace as its binding force." -Eph 4:3

Praise: St. Matthew accepted a dinner Guest and it changed his life (Mt 9:10ff).

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Making Disciples in a Culture of Death" on audio AV 97-1 and 97-3 or video V-97.)

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Tuesday, September 20, 2011

CHURCH, SACRIFICE, AND PASSOVER - One Bread, One Body, 9/20/2011

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

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Tuesday, September 20, 2011, Sts. Andrew Kim Taegon,, Paul Chong Hasang,, & the Korean Martyrs

Ezra 6:7-8, 12, 14-20, Psalm 122:1-5, Luke 8:19-21
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092011.cfm

CHURCH, SACRIFICE, AND PASSOVER

"They finished the building according to the command of the God of Israel." -Ezra 6:14

For the work on the house of God to be completed, we must build the building, make the sacrifices, and celebrate the Passover (Ezr 6:14, 17, 19). We have usually been successful in physically building the building. We have met in homes, built parish churches, and even erected cathedrals.

We made many sacrifices to build these buildings. However, the Lord calls us to intensify our sacrifices. To build the Church spiritually, we must sacrifice not only our money and time, but also our very lives in imitation of Jesus, the Head of the Church (see Eph 5:25).

We also need to celebrate the Passover, the ultimate event of liberation. We can be freed from sin, the fear of death, selfishness, addictions, unforgiveness, self-hatred, and confusion. Then, we are free for worship, evangelization, discipleship, and ministry. Then and only then do we truly build the Church "as an edifice of spirit, into a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" (1 Pt 2:5). The Passover empowers us to build the Church truly and spiritually.

Celebrate the new Passover (see Lk 22:15), the Mass. Build the Church.

Prayer: Father, may each Mass be a sacrifice and a Passover for me.

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

Praise: The Korean Martyrs were mostly lay people: fathers, mothers and children, who gave up their lives for love of Jesus.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, "Celebrating Mass in the Power of the Spirit", or our tapes on "Every Mass Should be Spirit-filled" on audio AV 49-1 or video V-49.)

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Monday, September 19, 2011

OUTSIDE THE BOX - One Bread, One Body, 9/19/2011

"Proclaiming the Gospel" is the title of the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth.
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth is designed as a bulletin insert which you can use at your local church to keep up to date on what the Holy Father is saying. You are free to reproduce it for this purpose.
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Monday, September 19, 2011, St. Januarius

Ezra 1:1-6, Psalm 126:1-6, Luke 8:16-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091911.cfm

OUTSIDE THE BOX

"The Lord inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this proclamation..." -Ezra 1:1

The greatest tragedy in the history of the Jewish people is the fall of Jerusalem and exile to Babylon in 587 B.C. For decades, Jews lived in Babylon with no temple and no hope of liberation. Then King Cyrus became the new king of Persia. Cyrus was a pagan who worshipped the false god Marduk. Cyrus had a policy of settling the territories in his kingdom with those who worshipped the respective "gods" of that land. Some scholars postulate that Cyrus favored religious freedom to curry the favor of the various gods so that his reign would have universal peace.

What a mysterious and mighty God we serve! God delivered Israel through a polytheistic pagan. Then God inspired Cyrus to help fund their moving expenses. The Lord even calls Cyrus His "anointed" (Is 45:1) and His "shepherd" (Is 44:28). Jeremiah proclaims that the deliverance of Israel through Cyrus is an even greater miracle than the exodus through the parted Red Sea (Jer 16:14-15; 23:7-8).

Therefore, never give up hope. No circumstance is beyond God's power to turn to the good (Rm 8:28). No person is too warped for God to use as His anointed (see Is 45:1). "Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Cor 2:9).

Prayer: Father, may I never place limits on You. Open my eyes, that I may see You at work in all circumstances (2 Kgs 6:17).

Promise: "To the man who has, more will be given; and he who has not, will lose even the little he thinks he has." -Lk 8:18

Praise: St. Januarius and his companions were unharmed when thrown to the wild beasts.

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

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Sunday, September 18, 2011

PM eNewsletter 25th Sunday in ordinary time

September 18th, 25th Sunday in ordinary time

This week, Jesus, we celebrate the feast of the apostle Matthew and St. Padre Pio.

Jesus, Matthew gave us a gospel that teaches us so much about You and why You did what You did.

So Christ, we thank you for Your apostles and the leadership they have given us throughout
the history of Your church.

We also thank You for St. Padre Pio, a modern saint, who gave all that he possibly could and
loved You totally.

You gave him the stigmata, and showed us how in spite of difficulty, we could still work for
You and love You as he did.

He was so gifted with gifts to benefit others.

Help us, oh! Christ, to be willing to give everything up to follow You, and be willing to give
all to help others.

Amen and Amen.

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
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For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the home page of Presentation Ministries?
Please take a look.
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday LIFE MEANS...
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/18/2011

"For, to me, 'life' means Christ." -Philippians 1:21

What does life mean to you? Some of us would answer: "Life" means family, friends, and work.
Life means church on Sunday, Thanksgiving dinners, a new car, or a wedding in the family.

Paul doesn't talk like this. He bluntly asserts: "Life" means Christ. Paul had "come to rate
all as loss in the light of the surpassing knowledge" of his Lord Jesus Christ (Phil 3:8).
For Jesus' sake, he "accounted all else rubbish so that Christ may be" his Wealth (Phil 3:8).

Is Christ a part of your life, or your whole life? Does everything in your life have meaning
only insofar as it is God's will? Is Christ it, all of it? Are you looking forward to death
so you can be home with the Lord (2 Cor 5:8) and see Him face to face? (1 Cor 13:12; 1 Jn 3:2)
Are you attached to the things of the world, or have you counted them all as "rubbish so that
Christ may" be your Wealth? (Phil 3:8) Have you chosen the better part, that is, sitting at
Jesus' feet and listening to His words? (Lk 10:39, 42)

Jesus, my Lord, my God, my All! You are the Way, the Truth, and the only Reason for living (Jn 14:6).

Monday OUTSIDE THE BOX
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/19/2011

"The Lord inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this proclamation..." -Ezra 1:1

Tuesday CHURCH, SACRIFICE, AND PASSOVER
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=9/20/2011

"They finished the building according to the command of the God of Israel." -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

· The Presentation Story
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/PresentationStory.asp

· Life Changing Masses, No Matter What
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/LifeChangingMasses.asp

Christ "is the high priest of the New Covenant; it is He Himself Who presides invisibly
over every Eucharistic celebration." -Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1348

Every Mass is automatically holy, great, and awesome because Jesus, the eternal High
Priest, makes present in every Mass His sacrifice for our salvation on Calvary. However,
every Mass is not automatically ..............................

· Renewing the Church and the Vocation to the Single Life
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/Single.asp

· The Lord Laughs
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/TheLordLaughs.asp

· Life-Changing Prayers from the Bible
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/LifePrayers.asp

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

( check out BTL 3 sections below for another way of sharing prayers)

Please pray for the casting out of the spirit of fantasy lust and hedonism from a dear
friend. For God to replace these spirits with his Holy Spirit, strength, courage and
chivalry.
(Anonymous, 9/17/2011 4:11:25 PM)

Asking God for the forgiveness of my sins and that of Ejiro. Also asking that God will
bless our relationship so it will lead to marriage. Also praying for a good job for Ejiro
and improvement of my parents health especially my mum that the pain in her waist will be
healed. Amen.
(Ogo, Nigeria, 9/17/2011 1:49:22 PM)

I applied for uk study visa.the embassy rejected my application two times.last monday i
applied for visa review please prayer for me to get my visa
(Anonymous, 9/17/2011 1:45:29 PM)

Holy Father, Jesus, Mary, Joseph, I pray for our family that we become Godly and holy
people willing to put God first in our lives. I most especially ask for conversion for my
son, that he follow the path the God has prepared for him. I pray for the mental health of
my father and his conversion to the faith. Marie USA
(Marie, Lakwood, Ca, United States, 9/17/2011 1:17:16 PM)

Father, please give me strength. Amen
(susan, fort collins, co, United States, 9/17/2011 12:37:42 PM)

Fear is useless. LORD please look kindly on the petitions in this prayer site and all the
requests said silently in our hearts. LORD our needs are many. Nothing is imposssible
through you. I know you can and will answer. Whisper in my ear when it is time to say
thank you. Thank you
(Jim, Wisconsin, 9/17/2011 12:13:45 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
________________________________________________

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

New Technology for Bible Telephone Line Ministry
Local Numbers Double Practically Overnight!

** 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/bst2011-09.asp?navlink=latest

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

PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL

"MOST PRECIOUS SERVICE"

[Proclamation of the Gospel] is the most precious service that the Church can render to
humanity and to all individuals who are seeking the profound reasons to live their life
to the full.

"INVIGORATES THE CHURCH"

Continuous proclamation of the Gospel ... invigorates the Church, her fervour and her
apostolic spirit. It renews her pastoral methods so that they may be ever better suited
to the new situations ... and enlivened by missionary zeal: "missionary activity renews
the Church, revitalizes faith and Christian identity, and offers fresh enthusiasm and
new incentive. Faith is strengthened when it is given to others!" (John Paul II)

(Souce: Message for World Mission Sunday, 1/6/11)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-09.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

John Paul Speaks
http://presentationministries.com/JPS/johnpaulspeaks.asp

My People Newspaper
http://presentationministries.com/mypeople/mypeople24-1.asp?navlink=latest

PM Newsletter
http://presentationministries.com/newsletter/newsletter12-1.asp?navlink=latest

Prophecies from Word Gifts Ministry
http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp

St. John Bosco Youth Group
http://youth.presentationministries.com/

________________________________________________

2011 RETREATS
Online Registration

2011 RETREATS

No retreats are scheduled at this time. Please check back for an updated schedule in the coming weeks.

Can you help us with the construction of the new Chapel and Retreat Center?
http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/chapel.asp

More information and registration for the Bible Institute
http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2011Home.asp

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

· Sign-up for the OBOB daily e-mail list
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LIFE MEANS... - One Bread, One Body, 9/18/2011

"Proclaiming the Gospel" is the title of the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth.
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Sunday, September 18, 2011, 25th Sunday Ordinary Time

Isaiah 55:6-9, Philippians 1:20-24, 27, Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18, Matthew 20:1-16
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091811.cfm

LIFE MEANS...

"For, to me, 'life' means Christ." -Philippians 1:21

What does life mean to you? Some of us would answer: "Life" means family, friends, and work. Life means church on Sunday, Thanksgiving dinners, a new car, or a wedding in the family.

Paul doesn't talk like this. He bluntly asserts: "Life" means Christ. Paul had "come to rate all as loss in the light of the surpassing knowledge" of his Lord Jesus Christ (Phil 3:8). For Jesus' sake, he "accounted all else rubbish so that Christ may be" his Wealth (Phil 3:8).

Is Christ a part of your life, or your whole life? Does everything in your life have meaning only insofar as it is God's will? Is Christ it, all of it? Are you looking forward to death so you can be home with the Lord (2 Cor 5:8) and see Him face to face? (1 Cor 13:12; 1 Jn 3:2) Are you attached to the things of the world, or have you counted them all as "rubbish so that Christ may" be your Wealth? (Phil 3:8) Have you chosen the better part, that is, sitting at Jesus' feet and listening to His words? (Lk 10:39, 42)

Jesus, my Lord, my God, my All! You are the Way, the Truth, and the only Reason for living (Jn 14:6).

Prayer: Jesus, I give You all of my life so You can be all of my life.

Promise: "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the Lord. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are My ways above your ways and My thoughts above your thoughts." -Is 55:8-9

Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus. You are my Life, my Wealth, the Way, the Truth, my All!

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

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Saturday, September 17, 2011

A STIFLING TRIO - One Bread, One Body, 9/17/2011

"Proclaiming the Gospel" is the title of the latest issue of Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth.
--> http://www.presentationministries.com/BST/latestBST.asp

Saturday, September 17, 2011, St. Robert Bellarmine

1 Timothy 6:13-16, Psalm 100:1-5, Luke 8:4-15
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091711.cfm

A STIFLING TRIO

"Their progress is stifled by the cares and riches and pleasures of life and they do not mature." -Luke 8:14

Jesus identifies three things that stifle the Word's progress in our lives if we don't surrender them to His lordship:
* cares. We are to cast our cares upon Jesus, because He cares for us (1 Pt 5:7). He is more than "able" (Heb 7:25) to deal with our cares.
* riches. Many of us spend much time working for money to meet our needs and to provide for our future. In so doing, we might be stifling our progress (Lk 8:14). Let's make Jesus our Wealth (Phil 3:8). We cannot give ourselves to both God and money (Mt 6:24).
* pleasures (Lk 8:14). The world does produce pleasures which can satisfy temporarily. However, the world's pleasures are passing away (1 Jn 2:17). If we live for them, we lose our appetite for the things of God (see Prv 13:19). Our pursuit of pleasure displaces our hunger for God. The Lord must be our Pleasure and our Delight (Ps 37:4).

God's Word produces the harvest, but we have to weed out the cares, riches, and pleasures of this world from our hearts to receive "the blessing of God" (Heb 6:7). "Bear fruit through perseverance" in opening your heart (Lk 8:15).

Prayer: Father, may I never "grow lazy" (Heb 6:12) in respect to Your Word. Give me "ears open to obedience" (Ps 40:7).

Promise: "Some fell on good soil, grew up, and yielded grain a hundredfold." -Lk 8:8

Praise: St. Robert embraced the gospel as he shared his intelligence by brilliant teaching as well as sharing his food with the hungry and the poor.

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

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Friday, September 16, 2011

FLEE MARKET - One Bread, One Body, 9/16/2011

Friday, September 16, 2011, Pope St. Cornelius, St. Cyprian

1 Timothy 6:2-12, Psalm 49:6-10, 17-20, Luke 8:1-3
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091611.cfm

FLEE MARKET

"Man of God that you are, flee from all this." -1 Timothy 6:11

Paul commanded Timothy to do four things (1 Tm 6:11-12): 1) flee, 2) seek, 3) fight, and 4) hold. Christians encourage each other to "hold on," "hang in there," and persevere. Sometimes we realize that to hold our ground, we must obey Paul's third commandment to Timothy. We must fight the evil one (see Eph 6:12-13). Some Christians even understand that the basis of holding and fighting is seeking. Jesus promised: "Seek first His kingship over you, His way of holiness, and all these things will be given you besides" (Mt 6:33).

Yet, how many Christians are aware of Paul's first commandment to Timothy? The greatest "seekers," "fighters," and "holders" are the greatest "flee-ers." We don't flee the Lord. We love Him. We don't flee the devil. We attack him, and he flees from us (Jas 4:7). However, we do flee what Paul calls "all this" (1 Tm 6:11). We flee the "love of money" (1 Tm 6:10), wanting to be rich (1 Tm 6:9), discontent (1 Tm 6:6), false teaching (1 Tm 6:3), bickering (1 Tm 6:5), and injustice to employees, especially Christian ones (1 Tm 6:2).

In effect, we must flee a secularized, self-centered, pleasure-seeking lifestyle. If we "flee all this," we will seek first God's kingdom, victoriously "fight the good fight of faith" (1 Tm 6:12), and hold on to everlasting life (1 Tm 6:12).

Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit to teach me to properly flee.

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

Praise: St. Cyprian fled "all this" as he made a vow of chastity before he was baptized, gave away his money to the poor, and accepted God's will to leadership as a bishop.

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Thursday, September 15, 2011

THE SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN SORROWS OF MARY - One Bread, One Body, 9/15/2011

Thursday, September 15, 2011, 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/bible/readings/091511.cfm

THE SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN SORROWS OF MARY

"With sorrow my eye is consumed; my soul also, and my body. For my life is spent with grief." -Psalm 31:10-11

Jesus wants to teach us "how to share in His sufferings by being formed into the pattern of His death" (Phil 3:10). He presents us Mary as the perfect example of redemptive suffering. Mary suffered in innocence, in freedom, and in love. Mary did not suffer because of her sins, but because of her love for Jesus. She suffered not because of disobeying her Son, but because of obeying Him. "See to it that 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" (1 Pt 4:15-16).

Mary suffered innocently. Mary was not a victim of circumstances. Simeon had told her she would be pierced with a sword of suffering (Lk 2:35). She knew she would suffer greatly. Nevertheless, she freely decided to be near the cross of Jesus and to suffer with Him.

Mary suffered in love. Like her Son, she did not hate His executioners. She even forgave the apostles after they abandoned Jesus and left Him to die (Mk 14:50). She also prayed with them to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:14).

Let your mother, Mary, show you how to suffer with Christ, her Son.

Prayer: Father, may I be crucified to the world and the world to me (Gal 6:14).

Promise: "Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered; and when perfected, He became the Source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him." -Heb 5:8-9

Praise: "At the cross her station keeping, stood the mournful mother weeping."

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Wednesday, September 14, 2011

THE CROSS, THE FATHER, AND LOVE - One Bread, One Body, 9/14/2011

Wednesday, September 14, 2011, 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/bible/readings/091411.cfm

THE CROSS, THE FATHER, AND LOVE

"He humbled Himself, obediently accepting even death." -Philippians 2:8

"God put Abraham to the test" (Gn 22:1). Abraham obediently brought his son Isaac to offer him up to the Lord (Gn 22:3). "Abraham took the wood for the holocaust and laid it on his son Isaac's shoulders" (Gn 22:6). He placed Isaac upon the wood and reached out to sacrifice him. Then the Lord, pleased by Abraham's supreme devotion to Him, stopped the sacrifice.

Did Isaac live the rest of his life in dread of his father Abraham? How did Isaac react the next time Abraham wanted to go and offer sacrifice? Scripture portrays him only as a devoted son. Apparently Isaac was so assured of Abraham's love for him that he could accept the cross of being faithful to a father who once allowed him to be offered up on the wood. Likewise, Jesus wouldn't complain about a Father Who would allow Him to be sacrificed upon the wood of the cross. He simply said to His Father: "Not My will but Yours be done" (Lk 22:42).

We are children of a Father Who allows and commands us to bear a daily cross. Can we trust His love for us enough to stay faithful and docile to Him - no matter what crosses He requires? If we don't know our Father's love for us, we won't bear the pressure of the cross. We'll either complain (Nm 21:5) or flee from the cross (Mk 14:50). If we're convinced of His love for us, we will come to know the triumph of the cross. "Live in His love" (Jn 15:10). Take up your cross (Lk 9:23).

Prayer: Father, I will stop whatever I'm doing and immerse myself daily in Your personal love for me.

Promise: "God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him may not die but may have eternal life." -Jn 3:16

Praise: "Jesus Christ is Lord!" (Phil 2:11) Alleluia!

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

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Tuesday, September 13, 2011

DADS WITH DIGNITY - One Bread, One Body, 9/13/2011

Tuesday, September 13, 2011, St. John Chrysostom

1 Timothy 3:1-13, Psalm 101:1-3, 5-6, Luke 7:11-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091311.cfm

DADS WITH DIGNITY

"He must be a good manager of his own household, keeping his children under control without sacrificing his dignity." -1 Timothy 3:4

A major qualification for a bishop or deacon in the early church was for a man to be a "good manager" of his children (1 Tm 3:4, 12). He had to keep "his children under control without sacrificing his dignity" (1 Tm 3:4).

We fathers imitate God our heavenly Father in the way we raise our children. Like God the Father, we fathers must:
* not nag (Col 3:21) or dominate (Eph 6:4) our children, but be lovingly and sacrificially involved in their lives.
* never favor (Jas 2:1) one child over the other.
* enforce discipline firmly and immediately, yet like our heavenly Father, do so in such a way that our children never forget for a moment that we love them.
* issue commands that are clear, specific, and easy to understand. If our commands are "uncertain," how could our children "get ready" to obey them? (1 Cor 14:7)
* issue commands with fatherly authority. We issue no idle commands. We do not stoop to repeat ourselves, but ensure that our commands are obeyed promptly. To plead for our children to obey us is beneath our fatherly dignity.

Fathers, ask God the Father to show you the other ways He keeps us, His children, "under control without sacrificing His dignity" (1 Tm 3:4). "Then go and do the same" (Lk 10:37).

Prayer: Father, may godly fatherhood be honored and practiced always. Turn the hearts of fathers to their children (Mal 3:24).

Promise: "God has visited His people." -Lk 7:16

Praise: St. John spiritually fathered his flock through his example of moderate living and through his powerful proclamation of the Word.

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

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Monday, September 12, 2011

SERVE AND DE-SERVE - One Bread, One Body, 9/12/2011

Monday, September 12, 2011, Most Holy Name of Mary

1 Timothy 2:1-8, Psalm 28:2, 7-9, Luke 7:1-10
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091211.cfm

SERVE AND DE-SERVE

"Upon approaching Jesus they petitioned Him earnestly. 'He deserves this favor from You,' they said, 'because he loves our people, and even built our synagogue for us.' " -Luke 7:4-5

The Jewish elders told Jesus that a certain centurion deserved to have his sick servant healed and saved from death. Does anyone deserve to be healed or blessed? The centurion probably disagreed with the Jewish elders. He said he did not even deserve to have Jesus enter his house - much less to have his servant healed (Lk 7:6).

If we're in touch with reality, we must admit we didn't deserve to be created, re-created, forgiven, saved, healed, etc. Life is not a matter of what we deserve, but of God's grace and mercy. Jesus alone is deserving. "Worthy is the Lamb That was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and praise!" (Rv 5:12) We are not deserving of Jesus entering our lives or giving us life.

Therefore, the Church teaches us to paraphrase the words of the centurion before we receive the Lord in Holy Communion. We pray: "Lord, I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed." In our unworthiness, let us daily receive Jesus - His life, love, forgiveness, and healing in Holy Communion.

Prayer: Father, may I realize that I am living only because of Your mercy.

Promise: "First of all, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for all men, especially for kings and those in authority, that we may be able to lead undisturbed and tranquil lives in perfect piety and dignity. Prayer of this kind is good." -1 Tm 2:1-3

Praise: Because of the worthiness of her Son, the Lamb, Mary's name is forever honored.

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