Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]: January 2012

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

RISK MANAGEMENT - One Bread, One Body, 1/31/2012

Tuesday, January 31, 2012, St. John Bosco

2 Samuel 18:9-10, 14, 24-25, 30-19:3, Psalm 86:1-6, Mark 5:21-43
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/013112.cfm

RISK MANAGEMENT

"One of the officials of the synagogue, a man named Jairus, came near. Seeing Jesus, he fell at His feet and made this earnest appeal." -Mark 5:22-23

Jairus was one of the leaders of the synagogue. It's possible it was Jairus' own synagogue in which Jesus stood in front of the congregation, challenged the synagogue leaders, and then healed a man with a withered hand (Mk 3:1ff). After this episode, some synagogue leaders plotted to destroy Jesus (Mk 3:6).
Jairus knew the healing power of Jesus, and his daughter was dying (Mk 5:23). Jairus also had a reputation to uphold. If Jairus were to go to Jesus and seek his daughter's healing, he might lose his standing in the synagogue, or perhaps even risk expulsion (see Jn 9:22). What if Jairus went to Jesus and then Jesus didn't heal his daughter? He'd have a dead daughter, and could have been laughed out of the synagogue as well.
Jairus decided to risk everything out of faith in Jesus. Though some officials went to Jesus in secret (see Jn 3:2), Jairus openly went to Jesus and "fell at His feet" (Mk 5:22). He publicly acknowledged Jesus' superiority and his own humility. Jairus received his daughter back from the dead (Mk 5:41ff). His family was made one in Christ, united in faith.
What about you? What would you have to risk to follow Jesus completely? Could you take the leap of faith and risk it all for the greater reward of what Jesus has for you? Be a Jairus. Decide to follow Jesus, and then hold nothing back.

Prayer: Jesus, take my hand and lead me into a new dimension of risen life (Mk 5:41). I will follow wherever You lead.

Promise: "Fear is useless. What is needed is trust." -Mk 5:36

Praise: St. John Bosco led a multitude of young people to Christ as he ministered to each in a total and complete way.

(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, 2011 through January 31, 2012
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 27, 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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Monday, January 30, 2012

"I'LL RUN YOU OUT OF TOWN" - One Bread, One Body, 1/30/2012

Monday, January 30, 2012

2 Samuel 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13, Psalm 3:2-7, Mark 5:1-20
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/013012.cfm

"I'LL RUN YOU OUT OF TOWN"

Jesus "gave the word, and with it the unclean spirits came out." -Mark 5:13

Absalom ran his father, David, out of Jerusalem (2 Sm 15:14). Later, David's army defeated Absalom's troops and ran them out of Jerusalem.
Jesus ran a legion of demons out of Gerasene territory, but then the inhabitants of that land ran Jesus out of town (Mk 5:17).
The devil used the sin of Adam and Eve to drive them and all their descendants out of Paradise and thus become the prince of this world (see Jn 14:30). However, Jesus came "to destroy the devil's works" (1 Jn 3:8) and lead us to the perfect paradise of heaven.
The devil thought he had run Jesus out of town forever when he pulled off crucifying Him. Then Jesus rose from the dead, and the devil, the prince of death (Heb 2:14), was run out of town forever.
For those who have not yet totally given their lives to Jesus, life is being run out of town, paradise, and the promised land. For those who are living for Jesus, life is running the devil out of town. "Run so as to win!" (1 Cor 9:24)

Prayer: Father, help me to resist the devil so that he will flee from me (Jas 4:7).

Promise: "Perhaps the Lord will look upon my affliction and make it up to me with benefits for the curses he is uttering this day." -2 Sm 16:12

Praise: Mark has learned to invoke the name of Jesus when feeling pressed by the enemy.

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Sunday, January 29, 2012

PM eNewsletter The 4th Sunday of ordinary time

January 29th, The 4th Sunday in ordinary time

This week, Lord, we celebrate You and Mary, our mother, being presented in the temple.

Mary, our mother, had to be purified approximately forty days after Your birth, and You had
to be given to the Father.

and so You, mom and St. Joseph came to the temple to fullfil the law.

St. Simeon was told by the Holy Spirit that he would see the messiah that day.

Jesus, help us to all realize that when ever we come to Your temple [the church], we truly
see You, the Messiah and Lord, there, waiting for us to give You thanks and adoration.

Amen and Amen.

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

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday PROPHET-ABLE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/29/2012

"If a prophet presumes to speak in My name an oracle that I have not commanded him to speak,
or speaks in the name of other gods, he shall die." -Deuteronomy 18:20

Even if we don't have the gift of prophecy, we must obey the prophets' messages, for without
prophecy we perish (Prv 29:18). If we don't listen to Jesus and His prophets, we "shall be
ruthlessly cut off from the people" (Acts 3:23).

In summary, we must not despise prophecies (1 Thes 5:20), but be open to them. We should be
open to being prophets ourselves. We must neither be silent nor careless in prophesying. As
best as we can discern, we must say what the Lord tells us to say when He wants us to say
it. Prophesy obediently, courageously, boldly, and carefully.

Monday "I'LL RUN YOU OUT OF TOWN"
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/30/2012

Jesus "gave the word, and with it the unclean spirits came out." -Mark 5:13

Tuesday RISK MANAGEMENT
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/31/2012

"One of the officials of the synagogue, a man named Jairus, came near. Seeing Jesus, he fell
at His feet and made this earnest appeal." -Mark 5:22-23

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

FREE AT LAST
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"The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." -2 Corinthians 3:17

Jesus came to set the captives free (Lk 4:18), "to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the
dungeon, those who live in darkness" (Is 42:7). Jesus died to give us a new Exodus, freeing us not
only from slavery and Pharaoh but from sin, Satan, and death. If Jesus, the Son of Man, sets us
free, ..................

Brochures by Topic
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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 me. I'm not sure what hit me but the minute I walked in at a funeral this morning
I couldn't stop crying. I think it was the reality of the last of my father's side of the family.
It seems the thought doesn't leave but I know that it is all a part of life. Thank you for
praying for me.
(Theresa, 1/28/2012 8:58:45 PM)

Jesus, Mary, I Love You, Please Save Souls. Amen.
(Anonymous, 1/28/2012 8:54:03 PM)

For the end to Abortion, Obamacare and Planned Parent hoods. Amen.
(Anonymous, 1/28/2012 8:51:34 PM)

Let us unite in prayer against the evil that is without shame forcing people to do things against
their will and against God's will...Lord have mercy. Let us pray for the individuals who are
behind this evil and pray that the Lord will have mercy on them. Let us pray for new leadership
.Jesus I Trust in YOU!
(Ken, Texas, 1/28/2012 7:05:40 PM)

Please pray for us.My mom has half a lung & also problems with her blood pressure,my dad who has
heart problems,leukemia,& kidney failure,my daughter who has allergies & is sick almost all the
time.Also for myself.I have bipolar & borderline personality disorder,have been hosptilized many
times & have also had electric shock treatments in the past.Please pray I can stay well enough to
take care of my baby & that I won't lose my social security.Thank you so much & may God bless you
all!!
(Autumn, Carterville, Illinois, United States, 1/28/2012 6:27:15 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, thru Revelation. 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/bst2012-01.asp?navlink=latest

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

FAITH AND LOVE

LOVE AND EVANGELIZATION

It is the love of Christ that fills our hearts and impels us to evangelize... He sends us
through the highways of the world to proclaim the Gospel to all the peoples of the earth...

CALLED BY LOVE

Through His love, Jesus Christ attracts to Himself the people of every generation: in every
age He convokes the Church, entrusting her with the proclamation of the Gospel by a mandate
that is ever new.

"GRACE AND JOY"

Faith grows when it is lived as an experience of love received and when it is communicated
as an experience of grace and joy. It makes us fruitful, because it expands our hearts in
hope and enables us to bear life-giving witness...

(Source: Apostolic Letter Porta Fidei, issued 10/11/2011)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2012-01.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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2012 RETREATS
Online Registration

2012 RETREATS

· Women's Day of Reflection on Redemptive Suffering with our Sorrowful Mother (Mar 10)
http://presentationministries.com/general/event.asp?eventID=240

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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PROPHET-ABLE - One Bread, One Body, 1/29/2012

Sunday, January 29, 2012, 4th Sunday Ordinary Time

Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 7:32-35, Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9, Mark 1:21-28
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012912.cfm

PROPHET-ABLE

"If a prophet presumes to speak in My name an oracle that I have not commanded him to speak, or speaks in the name of other gods, he shall die." -Deuteronomy 18:20

If prophets prophesy something God did not tell them to say, they shall die. This makes prophets feel like being quiet. However, if prophets "do not speak out to dissuade the wicked man from his way, he [the wicked man] shall die for his guilt, but [God] will hold [them] responsible for his death" (Ez 33:8). If we are silent in the face of evil, we are held responsible for the deaths of sinners. We must be careful when we prophesy, but we shouldn't be silent. This dilemma makes us feel like not being prophets. However, the Lord commands us to seek above all the gift of prophecy (1 Cor 14:1).
Even if we don't have the gift of prophecy, we must obey the prophets' messages, for without prophecy we perish (Prv 29:18). If we don't listen to Jesus and His prophets, we "shall be ruthlessly cut off from the people" (Acts 3:23).
In summary, we must not despise prophecies (1 Thes 5:20), but be open to them. We should be open to being prophets ourselves. We must neither be silent nor careless in prophesying. As best as we can discern, we must say what the Lord tells us to say when He wants us to say it. Prophesy obediently, courageously, boldly, and carefully.

Prayer: Father, may I be enlightened, encouraged, and built up by the prophetic messages of the pope.

Promise: "He is our God, and we are the people He shepherds, the flock He guides." -Ps 95:7

Praise: Praise Jesus, Who is the Word Made Flesh and dwells among us. Alleluia, Lord Jesus!

(For a related teaching, order our tape "Prophecy" on audio AV 14A-1, AV 14A-3, AV 14B-1 or video V-14A, V-14B.)

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Saturday, January 28, 2012

DEEP KNEE BENDS? - One Bread, One Body, 1/28/2012

Saturday, January 28, 2012, St. Thomas Aquinas

2 Samuel 12:1-7, 10-17, Psalm 51:12-17, Mark 4:35-41
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012812.cfm

DEEP KNEE BENDS?

"Who can this be that the wind and the sea obey Him?" -Mark 4:41

The wind and sea obey Jesus. Demons and diseases obey Jesus (see Mk 5:13, 29). Even death obeys Jesus (Mk 5:41ff). Every knee must bend and acknowledge Jesus as Lord (Phil 2:10-11), and a number of knees have already bent - but many human beings have not yet bent their knees to Jesus.
We all realize that many people do not obey Jesus. Before we call these people to repentance, however, we must repent ourselves (Mt 7:5). Yet due to the blinding effect of sin, we may not know that we need to repent. We need the Holy Spirit to convict us of our sins (Jn 16:8). We need a prophet like Nathan to look each of us in the eyes and say: "You are the man!" (2 Sm 12:7)
Do you want to be holy and pleasing to the Lord? If so, you will also want to be convicted of your sins. You will want to repent and celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Then you will join most of creation and bend your knee in obedience to Jesus.

Prayer: Father, convict me of my sins now.

Promise: Jesus "awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea: 'Quiet! Be still!' The wind fell off and everything grew calm." -Mk 4:39

Praise: St. Thomas put his great intellectual gifts at the service of the Lord and His Church.

(For a related teaching, order our tape Effects of Sin" on audio AV 81-3 or video V-81.)

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Friday, January 27, 2012

THINK BIG - One Bread, One Body, 1/27/2012

Friday, January 27, 2012, St. Angela Merici

2 Samuel 11:1-4, 5-10, 13-17, Psalm 51:3-7, 10-11, Mark 4:26-34
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012712.cfm

THINK BIG

The kingdom of God "is like mustard seed which, when planted in the soil, is the smallest of all the earth's seeds, yet once it is sown, springs up to become the largest of shrubs, with branches big enough for the birds of the sky to build nests in its shade." -Mark 4:31-32

For centuries, Christians have talked and heard about the parable of the mustard seed. However, the point of the parable in Mark's Gospel is not only the smallness of the mustard seed, but also the largeness of the mustard shrub "with branches big enough for the birds of the sky to build nests in its shade" (Mk 4:32). Thus we can rightly speak of the parable of the mustard shrub.
The Lord wants us to think big. This doesn't necessarily mean that we should "begin big" or be frustrated if our work doesn't "look big." However, we should "end big," that is, we should bear fruit abundantly (Jn 15:5) and make disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19).
We think big and want to share the Gospel with large numbers of people because these large numbers are not just large numbers; they are people. Because we love God, we love people - all people and each person. Because we love all people and each person, we want all to be saved (1 Tm 2:4) and not one lost (Mt 18:14). In love, we want as many people as possible (1 Cor 9:19) to come to Jesus. We think big because Jesus is Love and we love Him and each and every person He loves. In love, think big.

Prayer: Father, may I lead many thousands into your kingdom. May I lead at least one person to You today.

Promise: "Have mercy on me, O God, in Your goodness; in the greatness of Your compassion wipe out my offense. Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me." -Ps 51:3-4

Praise: St. Angela's plain-clothed Ursulines promoted Catholic home-schooling almost 500 years ago.

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Thursday, January 26, 2012

THE HEART OF A PASTOR - One Bread, One Body, 1/26/2012

Thursday, January 26, 2012, Sts. Timothy & Titus

2 Timothy 1:1-8 or, Titus 1:1-5, Psalm 96:1-3, 7-8, 10, Mark 4:21-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012612.cfm

THE HEART OF A PASTOR

"My purpose in leaving you in Crete was that you might accomplish what had been left undone." -Titus 1:5

Paul and Titus had apparently been on a missionary journey to Crete, a large island south of Greece. Paul decided to leave Titus in Crete to accomplish "what had been left undone" (Ti 1:5), which apparently was quite a lot. The people of Crete, as one of their own prophets testified, "have ever been liars, beasts, and lazy gluttons" (Ti 1:12). With a reputation like that, it's likely that Paul didn't get many resumes from young pastors applying for the position at Crete!
Titus had a huge task ahead of him. He had to admonish people sharply, in an attempt to keep them close to sound faith (Ti 1:13). He had to teach Christian behavior to young and old, men and women - in a real sense, to change their lifestyle from pagan to Christian (Ti 2:2-9) by very practical instruction (Ti 3:1-2, 14). It's likely that Titus received a lot of backlash in this ministry.
How did Titus ever handle this ministry to "disgusting" (Ti 1:16) beasts? Titus had the heart of a pastor. As on his earlier ministry to Corinth, God put zeal for the people of Crete into his heart (see 2 Cor 8:16). Thus, not only was Titus eager to go to Crete, but he went freely (cf 2 Cor 8:17). As Titus' heart embraced the Corinthians, a disgusting lot in their own right, "with an expanding love" (2 Cor 7:15), so his heart embraced the Cretans.
Whatever your vocation, God has given you a flock to pastor. Be a Titus. Give your heart to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Receive a great heart of love for your flock, "and more besides" (Mk 4:24).

Prayer: Father, like Titus, may I constantly bring "strength" and "reinforcement" to my flock (2 Cor 7:6, 7).

Promise: "In the measure you give you shall receive." -Mk 4:24

Praise: St. Titus and St. Timothy were martyred within a year of each other, faithful to the end.

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

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Wednesday, January 25, 2012

MEET YOUR ENEMY - One Bread, One Body, 1/25/2012

Wednesday, January 25, 2012, Conversion of St. Paul

Acts 22:3-16 or, Acts 9:1-22, Psalm 117:1-2, Mark 16:15-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012512.cfm

MEET YOUR ENEMY

"Lord, I have heard from many sources about this man." -Acts 9:13

David encountered his enemy, King Saul, in a cave while Saul was going to the "bathroom." Saul was hunting down David to kill him. David found his enemy in a vulnerable position, and refused to harm him (1 Sm 24:4ff). "For if a man meets his enemy, does he send him away unharmed?" (1 Sm 24:20) The implied answer is "No."
Ananias encountered his enemy, Saul of Tarsus. Saul was hunting down Ananias and all Christians in Damascus to arrest them (see Acts 9:2; 26:10). Saul was in a far more vulnerable position than King Saul; he was blind and had not taken food or drink for three days (Acts 9:9). It would have been amazing if Ananias simply sent Saul away unharmed. Yet, in obedience to God, he proclaimed the good news of the risen Jesus to Saul. When Ananias laid his hands on Saul, the Lord healed Saul's blindness, baptized him, and filled him with the Spirit (Acts 9:17-19). The man who in his fury (Acts 26:11) and blasphemy (1 Tm 1:13) would have put Ananias to death was now filled with the Spirit (Acts 9:17).
When Saul (now Paul) converted to Christianity, he also met his enemy, a jailer who chained him to a stake. When an earthquake struck, Paul was set free and the jailer was about to kill himself with his sword. When Paul met his enemy, did he send him away unharmed? No, Paul forgave his enemy, spared his life, and baptized him into salvation in Jesus (see Acts 16:24-33). The world will know we are God's children by our love for our enemies (Mt 5:44-45).

Prayer: Father, may I leave my enemies filled with the Holy Spirit.

Promise: "The man who believes in [the good news] and accepts baptism will be saved." -Mk 16:16

Praise: "He who was formerly persecuting us is now preaching the faith he tried to destroy" (Gal 1:23).

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

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Tuesday, January 24, 2012

LET THEM TALK - One Bread, One Body, 1/24/2012

Tuesday, January 24, 2012, St. Francis de Sales

2 Samuel 6:12-15, 17-19, Psalm 24:7-10, Mark 3:31-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012412.cfm

LET THEM TALK

"David, girt with a linen apron, came dancing before the Lord with abandon." -2 Samuel 6:14

A characteristic of David's life is that he gave himself to "the Lord with abandon" (2 Sm 6:14). David didn't hold back on giving to God, no matter what others said about him.
David was upset that Goliath was insulting God (1 Sm 17:26) and was determined to defend God's honor by fighting the giant. David's brothers "grew angry with David," insulting and belittling him (1 Sm 17:28). Goliath insulted David as well (1 Sm 17:42ff). David, however, paid no attention to the personal insults, but abandoned his life for the honor of the name of God (1 Sm 17:45ff).
David not only danced with abandon before the Lord, he gave the procession his all. He organized hundreds of people to carry the ark, to process in worship, and sing God's praises (see 1 Chr 15:3-25). David gave it all financially as well, by providing a meal for every person in Israel, as he had called the entire nation to the procession (1 Chr 15:28; 16:3). He held nothing back when it came to worshipping God. Yet his reward was to be "despised" (1 Chr 15:29) and insulted by his wife, Michal, for a seeming lack of royal dignity in his worship (2 Sm 6:20). David paid no attention to the insult, and responded by telling her that he would now worship God with abandon "even more" (2 Sm 6:22).
Be like King David, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Stephen, and today's saint, St. Francis de Sales. Abandon yourself so completely to the Lord that you notice only His glory.

Prayer: Jesus, may I love you so much that I can only rejoice when I am ill-treated for Your sake (Acts 5:41; 13:52; Mt 5:11-12).

Promise: Jesus said: "Whoever does the will of God is brother and sister and mother to Me." -Mk 3:35

Praise: St. Francis rejoiced in the Lord by using gentleness and love to bring others to Christ.

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

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Monday, January 23, 2012

CAN'T CANT - One Bread, One Body, 1/23/2012

Monday, January 23, 2012

2 Samuel 5:1-7, 10, Psalm 89:20-22, 25-26, Mark 3:22-30
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012312.cfm

CAN'T CANT

"David was told, 'You cannot enter here.' " -2 Samuel 5:6

Yesterday was the 39th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision legalizing abortion. This precipitated the development in the USA of what Pope John Paul II called the "culture of death." We are so entrenched in this culture of death, violence, and the degradation of the human person that it seems impossible to change the situation. We have been told we cannot stop Planned Parenthood, cannot change the "politically correct" to the "God-correct," cannot expect people to be pure, and cannot stop our government from financing the holocaust of babies in the womb. Of course, by our own power, we cannot do anything (Jn 15:5). So our pro-death, anti-life enemies are correct. God, however, can do and has done all things. "Thus says the Lord of hosts: 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?" (Zec 8:6) "Ah, Lord God, You have made heaven and earth by Your great might, with Your outstretched arm; nothing is impossible to You" (Jer 32:17).
So don't be discouraged. Jesus already has won the victory of life over death when He died on the cross and rose from the dead. God's love has conquered death (see Sg 8:6). Planned Parenthood and the "politically correct" are destined to be thrown into the same garbage dump of history as the Third Reich and the Soviet Union have been. Jesus alone will stand the test of time. He alone will reign supreme.
Worship Jesus, "the Way, and the Truth, and the Life" (Jn 14:6), "the Resurrection and the Life" (Jn 11:25).

Prayer: Father, thank You for saving me from the "culture of death."

Promise: "David grew steadily more powerful, for the Lord of hosts was with him." -2 Sm 5:10

Praise: Brian exhorts young people to use the Sacrament of Reconciliation and embrace new life.

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Sunday, January 22, 2012

PM eNewsletter The 3rd Sunday of ordinary time

January 22nd, The 3rd Sunday in ordinary time

Jesus, You called St. Paul, who was a sinner, a man who thought that You and Your followers
were to be eliminated.

When Paul asked You who You were that he was persecuting, You said that "when you persecute
the least of my people, you persecute me".

Jesus, continue to help all our brothers and sisters, who today are being persecuted for
their belief in You.

Help us to pray for them and assist them in every way possible.

let us do what we can to bring religious freedom to all people.

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?
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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday A NEW BEGINNING
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/22/2012

"This is the time of fulfillment. The reign of God is at hand! Reform your lives and believe
in the gospel!" -Mark 1:15

Even if we admit our own need to repent, we probably don't think we have to do so immediately.
However, the Lord says: "The time is short" (1 Cor 7:29). We may be like the Ninevites: either
we repent within forty days (or forty minutes) or be destroyed (Jon 3:4). "Delay not your
conversion to the Lord, put it not off from day to day; for suddenly His wrath flames forth"
(Sir 5:8-9). "Delay not to forsake sins, neglect it not till you are in distress" (Sir 18:21).
"Now is the acceptable time! Now is the day of salvation!" (2 Cor 6:2)

So each one of us should repent right now and go to Confession as soon as possible. If we
don't know what to confess, or even if we think we do, we should ask the Holy Spirit to help
us (see Jn 16:8). We may be blinded to sin by sin. Begin this year freed from sin.

Monday CAN'T CANT
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/23/2012

"David was told, 'You cannot enter here.' " -2 Samuel 5:6

Tuesday LET THEM TALK
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/24/2012

"David, girt with a linen apron, came dancing before the Lord with abandon." -2 Samuel 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

FREE AT LAST
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/TruthSetFree.asp

"The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." -2 Corinthians 3:17

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)

1 of 2 - As we walk/march to end abortion...let us pray: Our Lady of Guadalupe with Your unborn
Child; Jesus.. You appeared to Juan Diego and said: "Here I shall listen to their weeping and their
sorrows." "I shall take them all to my heart, and I shall cure their many sufferings, afflictions,
and sorrows." Hear us as we weep for those sufferings, afflictions and sorrows from abortion. We
consecrate all abortion mills in America and around the world to You. Take them all to Your Heart..
(Ken, Texas, 1/21/2012 6:32:41 PM)

2 of 2 - Our Lady of Guadalupe touch the hearts of all women contemplating an abortion, who feel
alone, confused and don't know where to turn...take them to Your Heart. For all unborn children.
take them to Your Heart. For those who believe that they do not have any choice.take them to Your
Heart. For those who have had an abortion and looking for peace.take them to Your Heart. For the
fathers of the person in the womb.take them to Your Heart. For those who perform abortions.take
them to Your Heart. For those who work in abortion mills.take them to Your Heart. Our Lady of
Guadalupe please hear us as we weep for those sufferings, afflictions and sorrows from abortion.
(Ken, Texas, 1/21/2012 6:32:13 PM)

please lead me to a well paying job, with benefits and that's the right match for me; that will
allow me to move out of my brother's house by Mar 15, 2012, go back to school; and bring peace
back to my family.
(L Iglesias, New York, NY, United States, 1/21/2012 5:56:55 PM)

I request prayers to sell our home A.S.A.P. Thank you in advance for all your prayers.
(Carmen L., New York, NY, United States, 1/21/2012 5:24:16 PM)

I am requesting complete healing for my father Pedro. I ask GOD to fill him with energy and good
health and I ask the healing angels to surround him and protect him. Thank you in advance for all
your prayers.
(Carmen L., New York, NY, United States, 1/21/2012 5:19:40 PM)

Slow Recovery from the Death of Our Only Son & Other Hardships & Sorrows... Thank you for standing
with us in daily prayer as we cry out to God Day & Nigh for His Mercy & Peace Now & in the Days
ahead..Ash Wed..Holy Week..2012.? Thank you for your patience! It is personal and Cosmic! We are
all hurting one way or another! And we need God's Mercy and Peace more then ever in these
uncertain times we live in! Please continue to pray with us daily for the long term?? Please
pass or e-mail prayer petition on:Parishes,Shrines,Monasteries,Convents,Nuns,Sisters,Priests,
Monks & Others you know of in the Worldwide Community(Women&Men) of Prayer? Meanwhile,We continue
to stay at our Post in prayer and hope! Again, Thank you for praying and your patience!
(Bill & Carol. Husband and Wife. United States, 1/21/2012 4:22:48 PM)

Lord Jesus, please help my son to get work, please touch my son to heal his depression, Guide him
always.
(dolly, manila, Philippines, 1/21/2012 4:10:48 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)
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!

** 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/bst2012-01.asp?navlink=latest

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

RECOGNIZE JESUS

Through faith, we can recognize the face of the risen Lord in those who ask for our love... It
is faith that enables us to recognize Christ and it is His love that impels us to assist Him
whenever He becomes our neighbor along the journey of life.

"AUTHENTIC AND LASTING"

... May this Year of Faith make our relationship with Christ the Lord increasingly firm, since
only in Him is there certitude for looking to the future and the guarantee of an authentic and
lasting love.

CHANGED LIVES

"Faith working through love" (Gal 5:6) becomes a new criterion of understanding and action
that changes the whole of man's life...

(Source: Apostolic Letter Porta Fidei, issued 10/11/2011)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2012-01.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/

________________________________________________

2012 RETREATS
Online Registration

2012 RETREATS

Co-Workers Retreat (Jan 28)
Theme: Can Brothers Dwell Together in Unity? Ps 133
http://presentationministries.com/general/event.asp?eventID=239

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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A NEW BEGINNING - One Bread, One Body, 1/22/2012

Sunday, January 22, 2012, 3rd Sunday Ordinary Time

Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Psalm 25:4-9, Mark 1:14-20
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012212.cfm

A NEW BEGINNING

"This is the time of fulfillment. The reign of God is at hand! Reform your lives and believe in the gospel!" -Mark 1:15

The Lord doesn't want us to go on with this new year without repenting, that is, reforming our lives. When we hear the Lord's call to repentance, we agree that many people need to hear that call. However, the Lord is saying that each of us needs to repent - to remove the plank from our eyes before trying to remove the splinters from the eyes of others (Mt 7:5).
Even if we admit our own need to repent, we probably don't think we have to do so immediately. However, the Lord says: "The time is short" (1 Cor 7:29). We may be like the Ninevites: either we repent within forty days (or forty minutes) or be destroyed (Jon 3:4). "Delay not your conversion to the Lord, put it not off from day to day; for suddenly His wrath flames forth" (Sir 5:8-9). "Delay not to forsake sins, neglect it not till you are in distress" (Sir 18:21). "Now is the acceptable time! Now is the day of salvation!" (2 Cor 6:2)
So each one of us should repent right now and go to Confession as soon as possible. If we don't know what to confess, or even if we think we do, we should ask the Holy Spirit to help us (see Jn 16:8). We may be blinded to sin by sin. Begin this year freed from sin.

Prayer: Father, give me a fresh start, another chance, and true freedom.

Promise: "The world as we know it is passing away." -1 Cor 7:31

Praise: Praise You, risen Lord Jesus! By Your Spirit, You make all things new. Alleluia!

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet The Secret of Confession" or our tape on audio AV 44-3 or video V-44.)

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Saturday, January 21, 2012

MIND GAMES - One Bread, One Body, 1/21/2012

O, Holy Spirit, beloved of my soul, ...I adore You.
Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen me, console me.
Tell me what I should do ...give me Your orders.
I promise to submit myself to all that You desire of me
and to accept all that You permit to happen to me.
Let me only know Your will.
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Saturday, January 21, 2012, St. Agnes

2 Samuel 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27, Psalm 80:2-3, 5-7, Mark 3:20-21
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012112.cfm

MIND GAMES

"He is out of His mind." -Mark 3:21

When Jesus' family and friends said He was "out of His mind," this was a Jewish way of saying that Jesus was possessed by the devil. Some religious leaders concurred with this judgment when they "asserted, 'He is possessed by Beelzebul' " (Mk 3:22).
Have you ever been accused of being possessed by the devil? If so, you may understand how Jesus felt. Jesus' Passion did not begin on Calvary. Even at the early part of His public ministry, Jesus was being brutally wounded. Jesus revealed Himself "to destroy the devil's works" (1 Jn 3:8), but was accused of being the devil's pawn. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (Jn 14:6), but was maligned as a puppet in the hands of "the father of lies" (Jn 8:44) and "the prince of death" (Heb 2:14). Jesus must have felt disgusted at such blasphemies, but continued to pray: "Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing" (Lk 23:34). Finally, He died for those wounding and hating Him. He died for us.
Repent! Tell Him you're sorry. Tell Him you love Him. Praise Him as Savior, Lord, and God. We will go out of our minds and be possessed by the devil forever unless we love Jesus with all our hearts.

Prayer: Father, forgive me.

Promise: "Rouse Your power, and come to save us." -Ps 80:3

Praise: St. Agnes was a young teenager when she sacrificially gave her life in martyrdom for her Beloved. She went cheerfully to her beheading, knowing she'd soon be with her Bridegroom.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet Accepting Jesus as Lord, Savior, and God" or our audio AV 43-1 or video V-43.)

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Friday, January 20, 2012

ARE YOU PRO-CHOICE? - One Bread, One Body, 1/20/2012

Friday, January 20, 2012, Pope St. Fabian, St. Sebastian

1 Samuel 24:3-21, Psalm 57:2-4, 6, 11, Mark 3:13-19
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012012.cfm

ARE YOU PRO-CHOICE?

David said: "I decided, 'I will not raise a hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed.' " -1 Samuel 24:11

David spared Saul's life when he had a perfect chance to kill his tormentor. David was a seasoned warrior who had killed many opponents (e.g. see 1 Sm 23:5; 30:17ff). The only reason he held back his hand was because Saul carried the anointing of leadership from God. Saul had been chosen by God (1 Sm 10:1).
Jesus "summoned the men He Himself had decided on" (Mk 3:13). It wasn't that the twelve apostles were especially qualified for their position; their only qualification was that they were chosen by the Lord (Jn 15:16). Saul looked like a poor choice by God. Likewise, it often appeared that the Lord had chosen His apostles poorly. They made mistake after mistake, and at times completely failed to understand Jesus (Mk 6:52).
It's not unusual to hear people remark today that Church leaders are incompetent. These leaders may seem foolish to some, but "God's folly is wiser than men, and His weakness more powerful than men" (1 Cor 1:25). God speaks through those He anointed and chose (Jn 15:16). For example, if God wishes to speak about marriage through celibate men, that doesn't make His message any less truthful. It is arrogance to assert that God is not powerful enough to lead and teach accurately through those He chooses, even those who appear unqualified. May all God's people imitate David, who so respected God's choice of Saul that he preferred to be persecuted rather than do any harm to the Lord's anointed (1 Sm 24:14).

Prayer: Lord, may I walk by faith in You, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7).

Promise: "In the shadow of Your wings I take refuge, till harm pass by."-Ps 57:2

Praise: Pope St. Fabian sent St. Denis to evangelize France, while he fought heresies in the Church in Rome.

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

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Thursday, January 19, 2012

TRUE HUMILITY IS GLADNESS - One Bread, One Body, 1/19/2012

Read our brochure entitled, "How To Renew Your Parish In Just 12 Years."

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/RenewParish.asp
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Thursday, January 19, 2012

1 Samuel 18:6-9; 19:1-7, Psalm 56:2-3, 9-13, Mark 3:7-12
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/011912.cfm

TRUE HUMILITY IS GLADNESS

"Saul was very angry and resentful of the song, for he thought: 'They give David ten thousands, but only thousands to me.' " -1 Samuel 18:8

King Saul won a great victory in battle through the catalyst of young David's courageous defeat of the fierce Goliath. When the cheerleaders greeted the victors with the fight song, Saul was given opening honors and credit for thousands (1 Sm 18:7). Because of his pride, however, all Saul could focus on was that David received more credit than he did (1 Sm 18:8). He was jealous of David and could feel no gladness that David, his courageous and faithful servant, received well-deserved acclaim. "The next day an evil spirit...came over Saul" (1 Sm 18:10) and ultimately Saul's pride and jealousy (1 Sm 18:9) led to his downfall.
John the Baptizer toiled for years in the desert to lead the Israelites to repentance and prepare the Lord's way. John's mission was gaining momentum, and many came to him to be baptized. Then Jesus came and people started flocking to Him rather than John (Jn 3:26). John was "overjoyed" (Jn 3:29) at Jesus' success. John saw himself as the "best man" (Jn 3:29), who stands happily forgotten at the altar while the groom (Jesus) is showered with attention. John's humility was not a self-pitying disappearing act that bites its tongue so as not to ruin the party. Rather, John was genuinely delighted to see Jesus prosper at the expense of his own popularity. He humbly exclaimed: "That is my joy, and it is complete. [Jesus] must increase, while I must decrease" (Jn 3:29-30). With John, let us gladly rejoice as we are humbled.

Prayer: Father, may I advance to the next level of true humility.

Promise: "In God I trust without fear; what can flesh do against me?" -Ps 56:12

Praise: Matt, a youth group leader, worked hard at reaching out to God's little ones so that they had a chance to "shine."

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

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Wednesday, January 18, 2012

"THE SWORD IN THE STONE" - One Bread, One Body, 1/18/2012

Read our brochure entitled, "How To Renew Your Parish In Just 12 Years."

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/RenewParish.asp
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Wednesday, January 18, 2012

1 Samuel 17:32-33, 37, 40-51, Psalm 144:1-2, 9-10, Mark 3:1-6
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/011812.cfm

"THE SWORD IN THE STONE"

"Blessed be the Lord, my Rock, Who trains my hands for battle, my fingers for war." -Psalm 144:1

David killed the giant Goliath with a stone and a sword (1 Sm 17:49, 51). Jesus is "the Stone Which the builders rejected" and "the Keystone of the structure" (Mt 21:42; Ps 118:22). The Holy Spirit, working through the Word of God and prayer (Eph 6:17-18), is the Sword. We will be victorious over giants - such as Planned Parenthood, secular humanism, materialism, racism, denominationalism, nationalism, violence, starvation, and even Satan himself - if we are founded on the Stone, Jesus, and wield the Sword, the Spirit.
In Jesus, we are more than conquerors (Rm 8:37). "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Rm 8:31) Sooner or later, "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) "There is One greater" in us "than there is in the world" (1 Jn 4:4). The Holy Spirit will renew the face of the earth (Ps 104:30). Victory is already won by Jesus, and we live the victorious life through the Spirit. The Stone and the Sword will destroy every giant. Through Jesus and in the Spirit, be a David.

Prayer: Father, Son, and Spirit, may I understand the effects of Your living inside of me.

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

Praise: Having her prayer group intercede, Rep. Smith was able to successfully have a pro-life bill passed.

(For a related teaching, order our tape on Power in The Spirit "on audio AV 64-1 or video V-64.)

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Tuesday, January 17, 2012

"A LIVING SACRIFICE" (Rm 12:1) - One Bread, One Body, 1/17/2012

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

Rights Of Defenseless Must Be Protected
St. Joseph's Silent Sermon
The Ultimate Love Affair
In Defense of Life: Evil Cannot Tolerate Good
Games Have Religious Themes
Prison To Praise: "Prisoners Love And Care"
Light to the Nations: A Christian Perspective on World News

http://www.presentationministries.com/mypeople/latestMyPeople.asp
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Tuesday, January 17, 2012, St. Anthony

1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 89:20-22, 27-28, Mark 2:23-28
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/011712.cfm

"A LIVING SACRIFICE" (Rm 12:1)

"I have come to sacrifice to the Lord." -1 Samuel 16:5

Sacrifice is defined as "a giving up of something for the sake of something or someone else." We Catholics are used to making sacrifices, but do we make our whole life "a living sacrifice," as Jesus would have us do? (Rm 12:1) We can do so by:
* participating frequently in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, fully aware that we are sacrificially giving our all to Jesus,
* attending Mass to give back to the Lord (Ps 116:12) rather than thinking of getting something from Him,
* offering the Lord a sacrifice of praise (Ps 50:14, 23), especially if we don't feel like it, and
* joining our every sacrifice with that of Jesus, including sacrifices of our income (by tithing and almsgiving), our heartfelt thanksgiving (Ps 116:17), and prayer (Ps 141:2).

God reveals that mercy (Mt 9:13), obedience (1 Sm 15:22), and love (Hos 6:6) are better than sacrifice. However, He also is pleased by holy, just, and loving sacrifices (Heb 13:16).
Jesus sacrificed the ecstasy of heaven to come to earth and save us. Yet He didn't sacrifice Himself for us out of duty; rather, He sacrificed for us out of sheer, merciful love (Jn 3:16). He gave Himself for us as a sacrifice (Eph 5:2, RNAB), yet it was a sacrifice He greatly desired to make (see Lk 22:15).
Respond to Jesus by sacrificing your entire life to Him from a heart of love and desire.

Prayer: Jesus, I love You so much. I will continually offer You every moment of my life as "a sacrifice of praise" (Heb 13:15).

Promise: "Not as man sees does God see, because man sees the appearance but the Lord looks into the heart." -1 Sm 16:7

Praise: At age twenty, St. Anthony sold all he had and followed the way of his Master.

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

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Monday, January 16, 2012

RUNNING A RED LIGHT - One Bread, One Body, 1/16/2012

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Monday, January 16, 2012

1 Samuel 15:16-23, Psalm 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23, Mark 2:18-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/011612.cfm

RUNNING A RED LIGHT

"Samuel said to Saul: 'Stop!' " -1 Samuel 15:16

As we begin a new year, the Lord may be saying to us what He said to Saul. He may be saying: "Stop!" The Lord told Saul to stop disobeying Him, stop deceiving himself, and stop hating himself (1 Sm 15:17ff). However, Saul went right through the stop sign. He attempted murder, became involved in the occult, and finally crashed by committing suicide.
Will we go through a stop sign as Saul did? Will we run a red light telling us to stop patterns of sin and self-deception in our lives? The old wineskins of sin will never hold the new wine of life in the Spirit (see Mk 2:22). We need a truly new "new year," not just the changing of the number 2011 to 2012.
However, we naturally tend to sin, to stay in sin, and to run stop signs and red lights (Rm 8:7). How can we stop? Only by God's grace can we step on the spiritual brakes and stop sinning. We need the Savior. We need Jesus. We need the Lord to stop us before we kill ourselves.
Get out of the driver's seat of your life. Let Jesus drive. He alone can stop you.

Prayer: Father, may I stop in the name of Love.

Promise: "He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies Me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God." -Ps 50:23

Praise: When Ruth gave her children back to the Lord, she experienced His love in a new, deeper way.

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

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Sunday, January 15, 2012

PM eNewsletter The second Sunday of ordinary time

January 15th, The second Sunday in ordinary time

Jesus, now that the new year has settled in, and all the celebrating is over, let us realize that in
You we always have the celebration of the mass to look forward to.

Let us make the mass a time of praise and prayer, a time of adoration and oneness with You.

Let us see in the breaking of the bread a love that we really can't understand, but yet it is real.

Let us partake of the food of life, that feeds us, and prepares us for the never ending mass of eternity.

Thank You for Your love.

Amen and Amen.

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

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday THE SLEEPING GIANT
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/15/2012

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

When Samuel was a child, God's people were spiritually asleep. Their leaders were weak, fat
(1 Sm 4:18), lustful (1 Sm 2:22), greedy (1 Sm 2:14ff), and almost blind (1 Sm 3:2). "A
revelation of the Lord was uncommon and vision infrequent" (1 Sm 3:1). When God would move
and someone occasionally woke up, they were told to go back to sleep (1 Sm 3:6).

The Church, God's people in our time, may not be that much different than in Samuel's time.
We seem to be sleepwalking. Many of our leaders are overwhelmed by the secular humanism
pervading and confusing the Church. So they do nothing, even when orthodox teaching and
objective morality are attacked and questioned. The Church has "put on a lot of weight"
over the centuries. We have innumerable programs and meetings. We have bigger budgets than
ever before. The Church has been shamed and lost much credibility because of scandals
concerning sexual sin. We don't seem to be hearing God. To even talk about hearing God is
suspect. The Church is in rough shape.

However, there is no need to be alarmed. The Church has been in worse shape before, and the
Lord has revived it. Jesus is the Head of the Church (Eph 1:22). He is calling new Samuels
to listen to Him and serve Him. Jesus will do the rest. Will you wake up, love the Church,
and be a Samuel?

Monday RUNNING A RED LIGHT
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/16/2012

"Samuel said to Saul: 'Stop!' " -1 Samuel 15:16

Tuesday "A LIVING SACRIFICE" (Rm 12:1)
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=1/17/2012

"I have come to sacrifice to the Lord." -1 Samuel 16:5

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

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

THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME

"O God, you are my God Whom I seek; for You my flesh pines and my soul thirsts." -Psalm 63:2

"In the most blessed sacrament of the Eucharist 'the body and blood, together with the soul and
divinity, of our Lord Jesus Christ, therefore, the whole Christ is truly, really and substantially
contained'" (Catechism, 1374).

Jesus' flesh is real food; His blood real drink (Jn 6:55). He lives in us, and we in Him (Jn 6:56).
Therefore, to receive Jesus in Holy Communion is one of the greatest privileges possible for a
human being. Communion is ..................

Brochures by Topic
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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)

Thank You Father, for all the blessings, gifts, favors and graces bestowed upon me and my family. I
pray for conversions, an increase of Faith and deep-rooted Faith for all children.Jesus I Trust in
YOU!
(Ken, Texas, 1/14/2012 8:18:18 PM)

Through the intercession of Our Lady of Gaudalupe I pray for a special intention. Lord hear my prayers
and answer please. Thank you.
(Theresa H., Thibodaux, Louisiana, 1/14/2012 7:33:44 PM)

Psalms 3:4 I cried aloud to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy hill. Hear the prayers of those
I prayed for on the prayer line.Psalm 34:17 When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and
delivers them out of all their troubles. Lord I'm crying out about our finances. We need help, praise
you for provision. We still need help. Psalms 50:15 .call upon me in the day of trouble; I will
deliver you, and you shall glorify me. I'm calling on you about my family and children, school and
military.Prov 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. I don't understand the
relationship problems in my life, but I trust you.Isa 55:6 Seek the LORD while he may be found; call
upon him while he is near. I call to you for help Lord. In Jesus name I pray amen
(anonymous, Dallas, TX, United States, 1/14/2012 6:35:38 PM)

For a true Pro- Life candidate that will win against Obama, I don't think Romney is a true Pro-Life
person. I know he'll say what people want to hear, like Obama did and he will do it again.
(Anonymous, 1/14/2012 4:52:35 PM)

UPDATED PRAYER REQUEST! Slow Recovery from the Death of Our Only Son & Other Hardhsips(Severe Financial,
Health Issues & Other Losses-Deaths)& Sorrows.. Thank you for standing with us in daily prayer in the
slow recovery process under at times impossible circumstances!! NEVER LESS!!! We continue to stay at our
Post in Hope with the help of your daily prayers & God's Mercy! Please continue to pray with us daily
for God's Healing,Protecting Peace & Hope in our broken hearts & lives! Pass Prayer Request on:Parishes,
Prayer Groups,Prayer Chains,Monasteries,Convents,Nuns,Sisters & Monks & Others? Thank you! usa
(Bill & Carol Broken & Exhausted Hearts..., United States, 1/14/2012 2:22:49 PM)

I am requesting prayer for my husband's health please.... he has been having trouble with his blood
pressure and other health problems.. Please pray God to touch my husband and heal him and bless him with
a healthy body ....... I also am asking prayer for a Financial blessing, as I am taking care of my
mother, and could really use God's blessings upon me..... and I am asking prayer for my Friend, Jacobo,
from Mexico. I ask for restored communication, as I am trying to teach Jacobo about the Bible , and
Jesus .. but I cannot do this without communication....it has been weighing heavy on my heart, please
pray for his salvation, and that he will be saved and give himself to God..... Thank you to everyone who
prays for my requests.
(Cheryl, United States, 1/14/2012 2:14:43 PM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
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MP3 4 You

Take a moment and check the link below
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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)
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Building Small Christian Communities (Guide Book)
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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!

** 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/bst2012-01.asp?navlink=latest

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

FAITH AND LOVE

"GRACE AND JOY"

Faith grows when it is lived as an experience of love received and when it is communicated as an
experience of grace and joy. It makes us fruitful, because it expands our hearts in hope and
enables us to bear life-giving witness...

"THE WITNESS OF CHARITY"

The Year of Faith will ... be a good opportunity to intensify the witness of charity.

FAITH AND CHARITY

Faith without charity bears no fruit, while charity, without faith would be a sentiment constantly
at the mercy of doubt. Faith and charity each require the other, in such a way that each allows
the other to set out along its respective path.

(Source: Apostolic Letter Porta Fidei, issued 10/11/2011)

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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
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Word Gifts Ministry
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John Paul Speaks
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My People Newspaper
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PM Newsletter
http://presentationministries.com/newsletter/newsletter12-1.asp?navlink=latest

Prophecies from Word Gifts Ministry
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St. John Bosco Youth Group
http://youth.presentationministries.com/

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2012 RETREATS
Online Registration

2012 RETREATS

· Male Identity in Christ (Jan 14)
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Can you help us with the construction of the new Chapel and Retreat Center?
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More information and registration for the Bible Institute
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http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
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