THE END - One Bread, One Body, 12/31/2020

Thursday, December 31, 2020, Pope St. Sylvester I

1 John 2:18-21
Psalm 96:1-2, 11-13
John 1:1-18
View Readings

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

On this last day of the year, you may look back on 2020 and see that many antichrists have appeared (1 Jn 2:18). It may have been a very difficult year. However, tough years need not be bad years. Even the most “impossible” year can be good. Even the most sinful year can be turned to the good by repentance, forgiveness, and total commitment to Jesus. “All’s well that ends well.” End this year by accepting God’s grace.

Even if you have endured such a year as Job had, you have so much for which to be thankful. No suffering or tragedy should overshadow the “love following upon love” (Jn 1:16) that God pours out over you. “Of His fullness we have all had a share” (Jn 1:16). The Lord has again “crowned the year” with His bounty (Ps 65:12). “Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right and just” (introduction to the Preface at Mass).

“Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph 5:20). “Dedicate yourselves to thankfulness” (Col 3:15). “Let the last word be, He is all in all! Let us praise Him the more, since we cannot fathom Him, for greater is He than all His works” (Sir 43:28-29).

Thank You, Jesus, for 2020. I love You with all my heart.

Prayer: Father, may I realize that You don't owe me anything and I owe You everything, even every moment of my life.

Promise: "In the beginning was the Word; the Word was in God's presence, and the Word was God." —Jn 1:1

Praise: In 330 AD, Emperor Constantine moved his capital city from Rome to Constantinople. Constantine gave his Lateran palace to Pope St. Sylvester. Sylvester transformed it into the Basilica of St. John Lateran.

In 330 AD, Emperor Constantine moved his capital city from Rome to Constantinople. Constantine gave his Lateran palace to Pope St. Sylvester. Sylvester transformed it into the Basilica of St. John Lateran.

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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WILL YOU HAVE A REAL CHRISTMAS? - One Bread, One Body, 12/30/2020

Wednesday, December 30, 2020,

1 John 2:12-17
Psalm 96:7-10
Luke 2:36-40
View Readings

WILL YOU HAVE A REAL CHRISTMAS?
"Bring gifts, and enter His courts; worship the Lord." —Psalm 96:8-9

We can have two kinds of Christmases — one real and the other fake. Anna the prophetess had a real Christmas. This eighty-four year old widow “was constantly in the temple, worshiping day and night in fasting and prayer” (Lk 2:37). “She gave thanks to God and talked about the Child” (Lk 2:38). Anna met and loved Christ. Her Christmas and life were Christ-centered.

The fake Christmas is described as “carnal allurements, enticements for the eye, the life of empty show” (1 Jn 2:16). This fake Christmas passes away. It leaves its victims self-centered, empty, and unprepared to deal with the demands of life and the new year. This fake Christmas prevents us from experiencing God the Father’s love (1 Jn 2:15). It leaves us spiritually bankrupt of love.

What if you’ve been deceived into celebrating the fake Christmas? What if you’ve still not decided which Christmas you’ll celebrate? You can repent now. The Lord has called you to read this for that very reason. You don’t have to let the devil rob you of Christmas. There are still thirteen more days remaining in the Christmas season in which you can meet and love Jesus. You can live for Him. You can have a real Christmas.

Prayer: Father, may I "have no love for the world, nor the things that the world affords" (1 Jn 2:15).

Promise: "The man who does God's will endures forever." —1 Jn 2:17

Praise: The secularization of Christmas surprisingly drew Carlos back to the Church of his childhood.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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HIS BIRTH AND OUR DEATHS - One Bread, One Body, 12/29/2020

Tuesday, December 29, 2020, St. Thomas Becket

1 John 2:3-11
Psalm 96:1-3, 5-6
Luke 2:22-35
View Readings

HIS BIRTH AND OUR DEATHS
"Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace." —Luke 2:29

Simeon told the Lord, His Master, that he was ready to die now that he had seen Jesus alive. This points out the connection between our deaths and Jesus’ birth. The Church emphasizes this connection by celebrating the deaths of St. Thomas Becket today, the Holy Innocents yesterday, and St. Stephen on the second day of Christmas.

Jesus’ birth and our deaths go together because Jesus has revealed to us that our deaths are births into the eternal life of heaven (see Rm 6:8). Death is not the end of life, but the end of earthly limitations on life. “Now we see indistinctly, as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. My knowledge is imperfect now; then I shall know even as I am known” (1 Cor 13:12).

Death in Jesus is the birth into perfect life — a life greater than we can ever see, hear, or conceptualize (1 Cor 2:9). Our earthly life is comparable to being in the womb. In the womb, we are truly human beings; we can experience God (see Lk 1:41); we can know love, be nourished, and grow. However, when we are born, a whole new world opens up for us. Death is the birth by which we are transferred from the womb of earthly life to the light of heavenly life. We know this because we know Life itself, Jesus Christ, the Baby born at Bethlehem.

Prayer: Father, may I not abort myself by sin.

Promise: "The darkness is over and the real light begins to shine." —1 Jn 2:8

Praise: St. Thomas studied law and became Chancellor of England. As Archbishop of Canterbury, he defended the Church against King Henry II's unorthodox innovations. Shortly after, Henry ordered Thomas' assassination.

(For a related teaching on Am I Going to Heaven?, order, listen to, or download our CD 54-3 or DVD 54 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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INNOCENCE OF THE INNOCENTS - One Bread, One Body, 12/28/2020

Monday, December 28, 2020, Holy Innocents

Holy Innocents
Psalm 124:2-5, 7-8
Matthew 2:13-18
View Readings

INNOCENCE OF THE INNOCENTS
"A cry was heard in Ramah, sobbing and loud lamentation: Rachel bewailing her children; no comfort for her, since they are no more." ––Matthew 2:18

As I sit writing, a glorious spring day beckons from outside my window. Earlier, a cardinal pierced the sun-drenched day with his distinctive song. New life is in the air. This scene contrasts starkly with today’s winter feast day honoring the Holy Innocents. We just celebrated the glorious Nativity.  God became man in the Incarnation (Jn 1:14). Now jolted by cruelty and suffering perpetrated against baby boys, despair may be our natural response. King Herod’s barbarism and self-centeredness rightly appall us (see Mt 2:16).

Although difficult to understand, God intends to bring out of this tragedy a greater good. In His infinite wisdom, all will receive their just recompense. Jesus never promised anyone a life free from sorrow. On the contrary, He promised persecution; but for the righteously persecuted “the reign of God is theirs” (Mt 5:10).

What will be our anchor throughout the sorrow? Lean on the Lord! “I tell you all this that in Me you may find peace. You will suffer in the world. But take courage! I have overcome the world” (Jn 16:33).

Do we accept God’s divine will, even when our humanity can’t see the wisdom? And how do we tap into these promises of Jesus? Holy Mother Church provides the structure for us. Practice your faith; receive the sacraments. “Fear is useless. What is needed is trust” (Mk 5:36).

Prayer: Father, help me live my faith vigorously during the remaining days of the Christmas season.

Promise: "Here, then, is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you: that God is light; in Him there is no darkness." ––1 Jn 1:5

Praise: The Church has honored the Holy Innocents as martyrs since antiquity.

(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 the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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THE REAL THING - One Bread, One Body, 12/27/2020

Sunday, December 27, 2020, Holy Family

Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3
Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19
Psalm 105:1-6, 8-9
Luke 2:22-40

View Readings

THE REAL THING
"He came to the temple now, inspired by the Spirit, and when the parents brought in the Child Jesus to perform for Him the customary ritual of the law, he took Him in his arms and blessed God." —Luke 2:27-28

Some orthodox Jews have the custom of using the birth of a baby boy as an occasion to discourse on the coming of the Messiah. An older relative traditionally starts the conversation with the question: “Could this baby be the Messiah?” Then various relatives wax eloquently about the coming and the glories of the Messiah.

Some people may have thought that Simeon and Anna were only engaging in this traditional conversation when they were talking about the Child Jesus “to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem” (Lk 2:38). Simeon and Anna may have then even more vehemently insisted that Jesus was “a revealing Light to the Gentiles, the Glory” of Israel (Lk 2:32). But people may have thought this was part of the game. Then Simeon and Anna would have tried to tell them this wasn’t a game, but the real thing. This Baby was the Messiah!

We face a similar situation in our day. When we proclaim Jesus as Messiah and Lord, people think this is merely the religious game and the standard church-talk. Yet we, like Simeon and Anna, must be filled with the Holy Spirit and proclaim that this is the real thing. Jesus is the Messiah. Christmas is real. God has become a man. We are saved. Jesus is Lord and God (see Jn 20:28).

Prayer: Father, may our family life be so holy that it shouts Jesus is the Messiah.

Promise: "He remembers forever His covenant which He made binding for a thousand generations." —Ps 105:8

Praise: "Observe, my son, your father's bidding, and reject not your mother's teaching" (Prv 6:20). Jesus, we thank You for modeling humility and obedience in family life.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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CALVARY-CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/26/2020

Saturday, December 26, 2020, St. Stephen

Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59
Psalm 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17
Matthew 10:17-22
View Readings

CALVARY-CHRISTMAS
"You will be hated by all on account of Me. But whoever holds out till the end will escape death." —Matthew 10:22

On this second day of Christmas, the Church presents to us St. Stephen, the first martyr. The festive red color of Christmas is mixed with the blood-red of the martyr. The Church proclaims that Christmas is not just a custom, diversion, or triviality. Christmas is glorious — and serious. Christmas is the proclamation of Jesus’ lordship. It is the Word confronting the world (see Wis 18:15).

The Church’s Christmas characters are not Santa, Rudolph, or Frosty. Our Christmas saints are the fearless martyr Stephen, the massacred babies of Bethlehem (Mt 2:16), the bloodied Thomas Becket, joyful and sorrowful mother Mary, and Joseph the impoverished refugee (see Lk 2:7; Mt 2:13). The Church proclaims that Christmas is not primarily for the consumers and shoppers but for the witnesses, the persecuted, and the poor.

You may have had the world’s Christmas for years. Why don’t you try something different and celebrate the Word’s Christmas? Repent, obey, witness, and begin Christ’s Christmas.

Prayer: Father, give me a good, old-fashioned, Bethlehem-Calvary Christmas.

Promise: "As Stephen was being stoned he could be heard praying, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' " —Acts 7:59

Praise: "As Stephen was being stoned he could be heard praying, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' " —Acts 7:59

(Grow in Christ's Christmas by reading the Bible every day. We have several series to help you. Overview of the Bible is six CDs starting with CD 10A-1 or three DVDs starting with DVD 10A. 15 Minute Bible Teaching - New Testament is forty CDs starting with CD 700. An Introduction to Each Book of the Bible is thirty-two CDs starting with CD 21-1 or seventeen DVDs starting with DVD 21.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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DIS-HONORABLE MENTION - One Bread, One Body, 12/25/2020

Friday, December 25, 2020, Christmas

Isaiah 52:7-10
Hebrews 1:1-6
Psalm 98:1-6
John 1:1-18

View Readings

DIS-HONORABLE MENTION
"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, and saying to Zion, 'Your God is King!' " —Isaiah 52:7

The Good News of Christmas is: “A Savior has been born to you” (Lk 2:11). “Your Savior comes” (Is 62:11). “When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us” (Ti 3:4-5). If Jesus had not been born, our future would be bleak, our present a desperate escape attempt, and our past an even heavier burden. If Jesus had not been born, fear, resentment and depression would reign supreme. If Jesus had not been born, we could not stand to live but would be afraid to die.

At Christmas midnight Mass, I looked at the congregation from my place behind the altar. One young girl was trapped in fornication. Two young men were in a homosexual perversion. A middle-aged man had destroyed his family through alcoholism. An elderly woman was mentally ill. A couple was talking divorce after thirty years of marriage. This was a sampling of the midnight Mass crowd. They desperately needed to be saved. Despite this, none of their fellow parishioners had told them about Jesus the Savior. They were given Christmas carols, Christmas presents, and holiday wishes, but Jesus was only given “honorable mention.”

Tell a broken world about Jesus this Christmas. Accept Him as Lord and Savior. “Christ our Savior is born!”

Prayer: Jesus, open my lips to tell a lost and hurting world about Your saving love for them.

Promise: "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us, and we have seen His glory: the glory of an only Son coming from the Father, filled with enduring love." —Jn 1:14

Praise: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with Child, and bear a Son, and shall name Him Immanuel" (Is 7:14). Merry Christmas!



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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THE TIME OF FULFILLMENT - One Bread, One Body, 12/24/2020

Thursday, December 24, 2020,

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16
Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29
Luke 1:67-79
View Readings

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

On this Christmas Eve, we stand at the threshold of the fulfillment of amazing prophecies. We may have been waiting for months or years for this, and this Christmas season will be the awaited time. Most of these prophetic promises of God may seem no closer to being fulfilled now than they have been for years. Some of these revelations you can hardly remember. It’s been so long since you first heard them. Nonetheless, now you are on the threshold, although you know this only by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7).

Today, in these last few hours before the Christmas season begins, pray, fast, repent, read the Bible, and be quiet. Choose the better part (Lk 10:42). Don’t be so busy about the details of hospitality (Lk 10:40). Sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His words (Lk 10:39). Prepare the way of the Lord (Is 40:3). He “will surely come.” His prophetic revelation “will not be late” (see Hab 2:3).

“We possess the prophetic message as something altogether reliable. Keep your attention closely fixed on it, as you would on a lamp shining in a dark place until the first streaks of dawn appear and the morning star rises in your hearts” (2 Pt 1:19; Rv 22:16).

Prayer: Father, rekindle my faith that You will keep the promises which have been unfulfilled for years.

Promise: "Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever." —2 Sm 7:16

Praise: After years of praying and fasting, Roberta's husband overcame his addiction and their marriage was restored in the Lord.

After years of praying and fasting, Roberta's husband overcame his addiction and their marriage was restored in the Lord.

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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CHRISTMAS PRESENCE - One Bread, One Body, 12/23/2020

Wednesday, December 23, 2020, St. John of Kanty

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24
Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14
Luke 1:57-66
View Readings

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE
"All who heard stored these things up in their hearts, saying, 'What will this child be?' " —Luke 1:66

I hope you’re more excited than you’ve ever been for Christmas — more excited than when you were a little child waiting to open your Christmas presents. The excitement I’m talking about is not primarily an emotion but an expression of faith. It’s not based on Christmas presents but on Christmas presence. The Lord is present. We can see Him setting the captives free, healing the sick, and working miracles (see Lk 4:18). We sense His presence within us, as He purifies our hearts and turns them to Himself. We see the Lord present in the Church, His Word, and the sacraments.

Although our sins blind us to His presence, we experience His presence sometimes and know by faith that He is with us always, even “until the end of the world” (Mt 28:20). Today, although we may feel as if we have a hundred things to do, we should stop everything for a while. If we let Him quiet our hearts, we will understand the words of the hymn “Silent Night.” When all is calm, all will be bright with a deep awareness of God’s presence. As we sit quietly at Jesus’ feet (Lk 10:39), the business and busy-ness of Christmas which have left us jaded will give way to an awareness and awe of Christ’s presence. We will be as a little child (see Mt 18:3). We will enter the kingdom of God and be excited about Christmas.

Prayer: Father, give me an awe of You which is the beginning of Christmas (see Ps 111:10).

Promise: "He will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like silver." —Mal 3:3

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

(For a related teaching on Hearing God, order, view or download our leaflet on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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THE SECOND PRESENTATION - One Bread, One Body, 12/22/2020

Tuesday, December 22, 2020,

1 Samuel 1:24-28
1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8
Luke 1:46-56
View Readings

THE SECOND PRESENTATION
"Now I, in turn, give him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the Lord." —1 Samuel 1:28

Because Christmas is the celebration of Jesus’ birthday, we should be thinking of what to give Him for a birthday and Christmas present. Since “the Lord’s are the earth and its fullness” (Ps 24:1), the Lord has almost everything. Therefore, it is difficult to give Him a present. However, we can give Him our lives, wills, days, future, and love. Like Hannah, we can also give our children to Jesus.

Hannah presented Samuel to the Lord forty days after his birth. Later, when Samuel was three years old, Hannah presented him a second time. By this second presentation, Samuel was given as a minister to the Lord (1 Sm 3:1).

Parents, seek God’s will about giving your children to the service of the Lord as priests and religious. If you believe the Lord wants your child to become a priest or religious, present your child to the Lord in this way after Communion at one of the Masses of the Christmas season. It remains for your child to accept this vocation, but, by your prayer of presentation, you have opened much wider the door to a priestly or religious vocation for them. You have given God, the Church, your child, and yourself a wondrous Christmas gift.

Prayer: Father, show parents the unique power of their prayers for their children.

Promise: "My being proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit finds joy in God my Savior." —Lk 1:46-47

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

(For a related teaching on Parenting and Religious Vocations, order, listen to, or download our CD 71-3 or DVD 71 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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HIDE AND SEE - One Bread, One Body, 12/21/2020

Monday, December 21, 2020, St. Peter Canisius

Song of Songs 2:8-14 or
Zephaniah 3:14-18
Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21
Luke 1:39-45
View Readings

HIDE AND SEE
"Let Me see you." —Song of Songs 2:14

We’re hiding from Jesus. He’s trying to look at us, but we’re hiding from Him — whether it’s behind a boulder (Sg 2:14), a sinful, worldly lifestyle, or a veil of fear. It’s estimated that over half of registered Catholics in the USA hide from Jesus simply by not showing up at Mass on Sunday.

We may be hiding from Jesus, but that doesn’t stop Him from looking for us (Lk 19:10). He loves us so much that He came down from heaven to earth to look at us. We might look in a mirror and dislike what we see, but Jesus loves to look at us. He says to each of us: “Ah, you are beautiful, My beloved” (Sg 1:15).

During the Advent and Christmas seasons, visit Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Sit and gaze upon the Eucharistic Jesus. Now realize that He is also looking upon you. While in His Eucharistic presence, read the entire book of Song of Songs. Picture Jesus using the words of the groom to talk directly to you with His words of ardent love (denoted by the letter ‘G’ in the left margin of some Bibles). Respond to Him by lovingly speaking to Him the words of the bride (denoted by the letter ‘B’ in the left margin of some Bibles).

Hide from Jesus no longer. Give Jesus the Christmas present He wants. Let Him see your face (Sg 2:14) and tell you how much He loves you. Then love Him in return.

Prayer: Jesus, why am I afraid of Your love? (Ps 139:7-12) Why do I hide myself from You? Give me the grace to let You love me.

Promise: "The Lord has removed the judgment against you...you have no further misfortune to fear." —Zep 3:15

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

(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 the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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GOD’S BROKEN PROMISES? - One Bread, One Body, 12/=?utf-8?Q?20/2020?=

Sunday, December 20, 2020, Fourth Sunday of Advent

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16
Romans 16:25-27
Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29
Luke 1:26-38

View Readings

GOD'S BROKEN PROMISES?
"I have sworn to David My servant: Forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations." —Psalm 89:4-5

Nathan prophesied to David: “The Lord said: ‘Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before Me; your throne shall stand firm forever’ ” (2 Sm 7:16). After this prophecy, David’s house was split by civil war and suffered many other tragedies for about a thousand years. God’s promise to David did not seem true.

One day, “the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David” (Lk 1:26-27). The angel told Joseph’s wife, Mary: “You shall conceive and bear a Son, and give Him the name Jesus. Great will be His dignity and He will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of David His father. He will rule over the house of Jacob forever and His reign will be without end” (Lk 1:31-33). The Lord’s promise to David that his house and kingdom would last forever was fulfilled in Jesus, the foster-Son of Joseph of the house of David.

The Lord’s seemingly broken promises were fulfilled when Mary said: “I am the servant of the Lord. Let it be done to me as you say” (Lk 1:38). If we, by faith, decide to become servants of the Lord and let Him do whatever He wants in our lives, we too will find the Lord’s impossible promises fulfilled in our lives. “Let it be done.”

Prayer: Father, let surprises, conviction, persecution, sacrifice, and all else be done to me as You say.

Promise: "She who was thought to be sterile is now in her sixth month, for nothing is impossible with God." —Lk 1:36-37

Praise: "O Key of David, O royal Power of Israel controlling at Your will the gate of heaven: come, break down the prison walls of death for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death; and lead Your captive people into freedom."



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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“SILENT NIGHT” - One Bread, One Body, 12/19=?utf-8?Q?/2020?=

Saturday, December 19, 2020,

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25
Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17
Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17
View Readings

"SILENT NIGHT"
Elizabeth "went into seclusion for five months." —Luke 1:24

After conceiving St. John the Baptizer, Elizabeth went into seclusion. As her husband could not speak nor hear, it was undoubtedly a quiet period for her. When the Blessed Virgin Mary arrived in Elizabeth’s sixth month of pregnancy (Lk 1:36, 39), Elizabeth must have been overjoyed to have a companion with whom to share her holy joy, much less to have the mother of the Lord in her midst.

Elizabeth’s husband Zechariah spent nine months in silence, reflecting in wonder at the gradual, visible growth of his son in his wife’s womb. Each day, Zechariah must have rejoiced in the visible answer to his prayers for a child uttered decades before. He must also have reflected on the awesome power of God, manifested in the visit of the angel Gabriel, and in his own inability to speak. Zechariah and Elizabeth had, in a sense, a nine-month novena filled with awe and wonder.

The novena ended with the birth of the boy and the obedience of Zechariah in naming him John. John’s birth culminated in the explosion of prophetic praise uttered in Zechariah’s Benedictus (Lk 1:67-79). Let the silent night of Christmas result in an outpouring of evangelization and praise in your life.  May the praise of God burst forth from each of us after an Advent of reflection on the power of God.

Prayer: Father, may I overflow with joy over the incarnate Jesus. Fill this last week before Christmas with silent reflection and deepening joy.

Promise: "Joy and gladness will be yours, and many will rejoice at his birth." —Lk 1:14

Praise: "Joy and gladness will be yours, and many will rejoice at his birth." —Lk 1:14

(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 the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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FATHER’S DAY - One Bread, One Body, 12/18/2020

Friday, December 18, 2020,

Jeremiah 23:5-8
Psalm 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19
Matthew 1:18-25
View Readings

FATHER'S DAY
"Joseph...an upright man..." —Matthew 1:19

St. Joseph would have likely heard today’s first reading and psalm response at some point in his life. Perhaps he had even committed them to memory. Little did he suspect when he initially heard these passages proclaimed that he one day would be raising and rearing the King prophesied in these readings. Yet Joseph surely imitated and emulated the qualities attributed to this King, for the Gospel describes Joseph as a righteous man (Mt 1:19). In his home and in his personal life, Joseph lived this kingly righteousness and modeled it for his wife, Mary, and foster-Son, Jesus.

Justice flourished in Joseph’s home and fullness of peace filled it (Ps 72:7). Though Jesus was divine and possessed the divine attributes of righteousness and justice, God the Father still knew how critical it was to give His Son Jesus the best of earthly fathers. “For whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise” applies to Jesus following His heavenly Father (Jn 5:19). However, there is surely some truth in this passage also applying to the child Jesus in imitating what he learned of righteous behavior from Joseph. Joseph loved Jesus and everything Joseph did he surely showed to Jesus (Jn 5:20). Fathers and mothers, serve as unfailing models of the Holy Family to your children, so that they might indelibly learn of God’s love.

Prayer: Father, may parents mirror the virtues of the Holy Family and the Holy Trinity to their children by their sacrificial love.

Promise: "She is to have a Son and you are to name Him Jesus because He will save His people from their sins." —Mt 1:21

Praise: "O sacred Lord of ancient Israel, Who showed Yourself to Moses in the burning bush, Who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain: come, stretch out Your mighty hand to set us free."

(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 the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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FAMILY MATTERS - One Bread, One Body, 12/17/2020

Thursday, December 17, 2020 ,

Genesis 49:2, 8-10
Psalm 72:1-4, 7-8, 17
Matthew 1:1-17
View Readings

FAMILY MATTERS
"A family record of Jesus Christ..." —Matthew 1:1

Wait! Don’t skip the genealogy! Because we love the Lord, we can’t wait to learn more about Him. Here are a few things God reveals about Himself in St. Matthew’s genealogy:

• Jesus Christ is “truly God and truly man,” God made man (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 467-468, 470).
• Jesus is God, the Messiah, born of a virgin (Mt 1:16, 18).
• Family comes first — these are the first verses of the New Testament, and God can’t wait to introduce His family.
• God works through people — lots of them.
• God loves families. Jesus lived in one for thirty years.
• Some family members are extraordinary (e.g. Mary, Joseph, David); others are faithful (e.g. Ruth, Josiah); some are nondescript (e.g. Eliud, Azor); others are despicable (e.g. Manasseh, Rehoboam). Jesus considers them all His family. God’s plan was accomplished through each one.
• Some, like Ruth and Rahab, were outsiders but were welcomed into God’s family for their loving faithfulness.
• God is pro-life. He loves fathers, mothers, and children.
• God has a place in His plan for every baby, including those born of prostitution (Perez — Mt 1:3; Gn 38:1-30), injustice (Solomon — Mt 1:6; 2 Sm 11:1-27), and mixed marriages (Obed — Mt 1:5; Ru 4:5ff).
• God is patient. His plan may take a long time to unfold.
• “God is not ashamed to be called their God” (Heb 11:16) and Jesus is not ashamed of His family. He loves them.

“Beloved, we are God’s children now” (1 Jn 3:2). Let us love our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Prayer: Father, thank You for adopting me into Your family! May I please You and bring honor to Your family name.

Promise: "The scepter shall never depart from Judah." —Gn 49:10

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

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

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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THE ONLY ONE - One Bread, One Body, 12/16/2020

Wednesday, December 16, 2020,

Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25
Psalm 85:9-14
Luke 7:18-23
View Readings

THE ONLY ONE
"I am God; there is no other!" —Isaiah 45:22

Does your life and Christmas depend on anyone or anything other than Jesus? The Lord says: “I am the Lord, there is no other” (Is 45:6, 18, 22). The Lord proclaims there is no other god besides Him (Is 45:21). He says: “There is no just and saving God but Me” (Is 45:21). The first of the Ten Commandments says: “You shall not have other gods besides Me” (Ex 20:3; Dt 5:7). Therefore, we should pray and live: “Only in God is my soul at rest; from Him comes my salvation. He only is my Rock and my Salvation, my Stronghold” (Ps 62:2-3).

Jesus is the only name by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12) and our “only Master and Lord” (Jude 4). He is the only Way to the Father (Jn 14:6). Therefore, we should say: “Only in the Lord are just deeds and power” (Is 45:24).

Many Christians’ Christmases depend almost wholly on family, friends, presents, parties, money, food, or pleasures. While we thank the Lord for all His temporal gifts, we are not to depend on them, even slightly. Christmas and life mean Christ (see Phil 1:21). If we were like Job, if we lost everything but the Lord, if we became impoverished and starving, alone and bereaved, we could still have Christmas because nothing can separate us from Christ’s love (Rm 8:35). Jesus Christ is our only Need in life.

Prayer: Father, thank You for loving me so much that You gave me Your only Son. May I believe in Him and love Him totally.

Promise: "The blind recover their sight, cripples walk, lepers are cured, the deaf hear, dead men are raised to life, and the poor have the good news preached to them..." —Lk 7:22

Praise: Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament keeps Katherine focused on Jesus.

(For a related teaching on Developing a Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus, order, listen to, or download our CD 52-1 or DVD 52 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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“THE PRIDE OF LIFE” (1 Jn 2:16, RSV-CE) - O=?utf-8?Q?ne_Bread,_One_Body,_12/15/2020?=

Tuesday, December 15, 2020,

Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13
Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-19, 23
Matthew 21:28-32
View Readings

"THE PRIDE OF LIFE" (1 Jn 2:16, RSV-CE)
"For then will I remove from your midst the proud braggarts, and you shall no longer exalt yourself on My holy mountain." —Zephaniah 3:11

The Lord calls us to repent of pride, self-exaltation, and arrogance, and become “a people humble and lowly” (Zep 3:12). Pride can disqualify us from Christmas. Through humility, however, we can fit into the manger scene at Bethlehem with the lowly handmaid Mary, the poor Joseph, and the simple shepherds.

In our society, arrogance has almost reached new heights, if that were possible. Some people are so prideful they deny the truth of God’s Word, as if millions of people for thousands of years were too stupid to see that the Bible was just a book. Others deny the significance of the physical and traditional differences between men and women, as if the world has been in the dark for centuries until they and their friends arrived on the scene. “In laying claim to such knowledge, some men have missed the goal of faith” (1 Tm 6:21).

Moreover it’s not uncommon for Catholics to contradict the teaching of the Church and the Pope. They’re supposedly much more enlightened than past and current Church leaders. “These men pour abuse on things of which they are ignorant” (see 2 Pt 2:12). Some have even arbitrarily decided that the old concept of objective truth is now “out.” They have finally discovered, and now proudly announce to the world, that truth is relative.

The arrogance of our times approaches insanity. We must repent of arrogance. This is necessary for life and for Christmas.

Prayer: Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make our hearts like Yours (see Mt 11:29).

Promise: "I will change and purify the lips of the peoples." —Zep 3:9

Praise: Frequent Confession serves to assist George in combatting the temptation to pride.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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NO-KNOW - One Bread, One Body, 12/14/2020

Monday, December 14, 2020, St. John of the Cross

Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17
Psalm 25:4-9
Matthew 21:23-27
View Readings

NO-KNOW
"We do not know." —Matthew 21:27

Balaam called himself the man who “knows what the Most High knows” (Nm 24:4, 16). He was so highly regarded for his ability as a fortune-teller that nations sent large delegations of dignitaries with large amounts of money to obtain his services (Nm 22:6-7, 15). Yet this man who “sees what the Almighty sees” (Nm 24:16) couldn’t even get the picture when his donkey began to talk to him! (Nm 22:28ff) He had to admit that he “did not know that” God opposed His greedy plot against Israel (Nm 22:34).

The Jewish religious leaders were also confident in their expert knowledge of God’s plan. They “knew” that Jesus was a sinner (see Jn 9:24). They also “knew” His background (see Jn 7:27; 6:42). Yet when Jesus asked them a direct question which had only two possible answers, they had to admit, “We do not know” (Mt 21:27). They knew the results of each answer to Jesus’ question. However, they didn’t know Jesus, the Answer.

During this Advent season, come humbly to Jesus. Look with amazement on the Baby Jesus, the Almighty King of the universe, lying in a feeding trough. Feel anew the awe that the Eternal Word, Who created the heavens and the earth, would descend to earth and become one of us. Let us be truly wise men and women, and prostrate ourselves before Him (Mt 2:11). “Know that the Lord is God” (Ps 100:3).

Prayer: Father, "I wish to know Christ" (Phil 3:10). Grant me a Spirit of wisdom and insight to know You clearly (Eph 1:17).

Promise: "Good and upright is the Lord; thus He shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, He teaches the humble His way." —Ps 25:8-9

Praise: St. John of the Cross is one of the Church's greatest mystics and writers. "May I never boast of anything but the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ!" (Gal 6:14)

(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 the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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THE TRAGEDY OF TRAGEDIES - One Bread, One Body, 12/13/2020

Sunday, December 13, 2020, Third Sunday of Advent

Isaiah 61:1-2, 10-11
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
Luke 1:46-50, 53-54
John 1:6-8, 19-28

View Readings

THE TRAGEDY OF TRAGEDIES
"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me." —Isaiah 61:1

The Holy Spirit wants to bring Good News to the poor, heal the broken-hearted, and set captives free (Is 61:1). Only the Holy Spirit can renew the face of the earth (Ps 104:30). However, we stifle, quench (1 Thes 5:19), sadden, and grieve the Spirit (Eph 4:30). Then the poor stay depressed and oppressed; the broken-hearted are shattered; the captives are chained with even more chains; and the face of the earth becomes more defaced.

One of the greatest tragedies in life is to stifle the Holy Spirit. This is the tragedy which causes so many other tragedies to continue or grow worse. Before the Lord commanded us not to stifle the Spirit, He ordered us to always rejoice, pray, and thank (1 Thes 5:16-18). If we accept God’s grace to always do these three things, we will not stifle the Spirit.

Therefore, when you’re about to stifle the Spirit by using your tongue for gossip rather than for evangelization; rejoice, pray, and thank. The Spirit will be stirred into flame in your life (2 Tm 1:6-7) and not stifled. When you’re senselessly staring at your TV or handheld electronic device, turn it off and persevere in joy, prayer, and thanks.  You will have turned it off before it turned off the Spirit in your life.

Rejoice in the Lord always (Phil 4:4). Pray always (Lk 18:1; Rm 12:12). Dedicate yourself to thankfulness (Col 3:15). Live in the Spirit.

Prayer: "Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest, and in our hearts take up Thy rest."

Promise: "There is One among you Whom you do not recognize — the One Who is to come after me." —Jn 1:26-27

Praise: "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and praise!" (Rv 5:12) Lord Jesus, You have conquered death! Alleluia!



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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THE STAR OF EVANGELIZATION - One Bread, One Body, 12/12/2020

Saturday, December 12, 2020, Our Lady of Guadalupe

Zechariah 2:14-17 or
Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10
Judith 13:18-19
Luke 1:39-47
View Readings

THE STAR OF EVANGELIZATION
"Many nations shall join themselves to the Lord on that day." —Zechariah 2:15

Pope St. Paul VI called Mary the “star of evangelization.” Immediately after conceiving, Mary took Jesus, the baby in her womb, to Elizabeth (Lk 1:39-41). Elizabeth “was filled with the Holy Spirit” (Lk 1:41) and John rejoiced in the Lord.

Throughout history, Mary has done whatever her Son has told her (see Jn 2:5) and made disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19). Probably her most fruitful evangelization took place from 1531 to 1538 at the hill of Tepeyac, near what is now called Mexico City. During those seven years, Mary, under the title of Our Lady of Guadalupe, led eight million people to give their lives to Christ. Over three thousand people each day for seven years were baptized into Christ. In effect, Mary, who prayed in the upper room before the first Christian Pentecost (Acts 1:14; 2:1ff), was used by the Lord to bring about new Pentecosts each day for seven years.

Mary, the star of evangelization, will make us stars of evangelization. If we also are “docile to the action of the Holy Spirit” (Toward the Third Millennium, Pope St. John Paul II, 18), we will see a new springtime of Christian life. Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.

Prayer: Father, make these next two years the most fruitful years of my life.

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

Praise: The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City contains the miraculous tilma (cloak) worn by St. Juan Diego. Our Lady's image appears the same today as it did in 1531!

(For a related teaching on Pope St. John Paul II on Evangelization, order, listen to, or download our CD 56-1 or DVD 56 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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IT’S JUST VINDICATION - One Bread, One Body, 12/11/=?utf-8?Q?2020?=

Friday, December 11, 2020, Pope St. Damasus I

Isaiah 48:17-19
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
View Readings

IT'S JUST VINDICATION
"If you would hearken to My commandments...your vindication [would be] like the waves of the sea." —Isaiah 48:18

Jesus is coming soon, and He plans to set things right for “the just” (Ps 1:6), for those who put their trust in Him. We Christians take up our daily cross (Lk 9:23) and give up many things the world embraces. This makes us look foolish in the eyes of the world. We who are just need to be vindicated, proven right to those who denounce us.

When Jesus comes, heaven will announce to us: “Here is your God, He comes with vindication” (Is 35:4; see also Is 63:1). Jesus comes to bring “a day of vindication by our God” (Is 61:2). God can’t rest until He has vindicated us, His servants (Is 62:1). God’s vindication is more far-reaching than our greatest hopes (Is 62:2); it will be as bright as the noonday sun (Ps 37:6).

While we wait for His coming and His vindication, we must endure the complaints and insults of those who are never satisfied with us (see Mt 11:16ff). We will endure this cross by fixing our eyes on Jesus (Heb 12:2). With eyes of faith, we confess with Job: “I know that my Vindicator lives” (Jb 19:25, NAB). Come, Lord Jesus! (Rv 22:20)

Prayer: Father, may my life bring You much honor and glory in the sight of all (Mt 5:16).

Promise: "Time will prove where wisdom lies." —Mt 11:19

Praise: Pope St. Damasus I was the Pope around AD 378 — a time of heresy, an anti Pope and many tribulations from which he was vindicated. He fought against heresy by promoting the witness of the Church's martyrs.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (Step back and take time to renew your commitment to following Christ. Check out our retreat schedule on our website www.presentationministries.com or contact us at retreats@presentationministries.com to learn about the upcoming retreats.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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“MARY” CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/=?utf-8?Q?10/2020?=

Thursday, December 10, 2020 , Our Lady of Loreto

Isaiah 41:13-20
Psalm 145:1, 9-13
Matthew 11:11-15
View Readings

"MARY" CHRISTMAS
"I solemnly assure you, history has not known a man born of woman greater than John the Baptizer. Yet the least born into the kingdom of God is greater than he." —Matthew 11:11

In today’s reading from Isaiah, God calls us a “worm” and a “maggot” (Is 41:14). Elsewhere He said we were like “grass” (Is 40:6).  This was not a compliment; it means we’re nothing.  In today’s Gospel, the Lord says we Christians are greater than John the Baptizer, who was as great a person as had ever lived up to that time (Mt 11:11). The Lord also calls us holy, royal, priestly, and precious (1 Pt 2:9). We are even God’s children, temples of the Spirit, and “sharers of the divine nature” (2 Pt 1:4).

Of ourselves, we are nothing. In Jesus, we are greater than great and “more than conquerors” (Rm 8:37). In Jesus, we can even do greater by far than He did (Jn 14:12). For example, of herself Mary was an unwed, pregnant, teenage girl from a backwater town called Nazareth. She was a member of an oppressed people, the Jews. In Jesus, however, Mary is blessed among women (Lk 1:28), immaculately conceived, spouse of the Spirit, mother of God, mother of the Church, and queen of heaven and earth. In Jesus, Mary did even greater things than did her Son (Jn 14:12) when she appeared near Mexico City in 1531. The Lord used her to lead eight million people to Him in seven years to bring down the strongholds of the evil one (2 Cor 10:4) and to convert many more millions even to the present day.

Prayer: Father, may everything I know about Mary lead me to new revelations about Jesus.

Promise: "Fear not, I will help you." —Is 41:13

Praise: With childlike trust, Michael's continuous prayer is, "Jesus, I trust in You."

(For a related teaching on Mother Mary, order, view or download our leaflet on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

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‘WAIT’ LIFTING - One Bread, One Body, 12/09=?utf-8?Q?/2020?=

Wednesday, December 9, 2020, St. Juan Diego

Isaiah 40:25-31
Psalm 103:1-4, 8, 10
Matthew 11:28-30
View Readings

'WAIT' LIFTING
"They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles." —Isaiah 40:31, RSV-CE

Advent is a time of waiting. We wait through the longest nights of the year for the light of dawn. Children wait to open their presents on Christmas day. Christians wait for their family and friends to accept Jesus and celebrate their first real Christmas.

There are two kinds of waiting: waiting that makes us nervous and emotionally drained, or waiting that renews our strength. If we wait against our will as victims of circumstances, we become frustrated. If we choose to wait on God and refuse to control our own lives, we become energized by this act of faith. When we wait on God, we are really waiting on ourselves and/or other people who are keeping God waiting. We are choosing to accept God’s way of forgiveness, patience, and mercy. When we wait on God, we’re either admitting we’ve partly caused the delay or we’re forgiving seventy times seven those who refuse to cooperate with the Lord.

Waiting on the Lord implies repentance and/or forgiveness. This waiting and soul-searching will energize us for Christmas. “Wait for the Lord with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord” (Ps 27:14).

Prayer: Father, thank You for waiting for me when I deserved to be left behind.

Promise: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will refresh you." —Mt 11:28

Praise: St. Juan Diego's name is forever intertwined with Our Lady of Guadalupe. In a private revelation, the Blessed Virgin appeared to him on Mexico's Tepeyac Hill in 1531.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2020 through January 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 14, 2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") 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 the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

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