O, MY GOD! - One Bread, One Body, 07/01/2021

Thursday, July 1, 2021, St. Junipero Serra

Genesis 22:1-19
Psalm 115:1-6, 8-9
Matthew 9:1-8
View Readings

O, MY GOD!
"When Jesus saw their faith He said to the paralytic, 'Have courage, son, your sins are forgiven.' " —Matthew 9:2

When Jesus forgave the paralytic’s sins, He claimed to do something only God can do. Thus, He claimed to be God. The only possible responses to this were to charge Jesus with blasphemy (Mt 9:3) or to worship Him as God.

Jesus repeatedly claimed to be God when He claimed to be the Lord of the Sabbath (Mt 12:8), the Son of God (see Jn 5:18), and the great I AM (Jn 8:24, 28, 58). Jesus is the Word made flesh (Jn 1:14), and the Word is God (Jn 1:1). Jesus is God.

Jesus expects us to believe He is God. Otherwise, we will die in our sins (Jn 8:24). Our faith in Jesus’ divinity means not only a mental assent, but assent expressed by worshiping, obeying, and serving Him. Ultimately, our faith in Jesus’ divinity must be so real that we will give anything to Jesus and do anything for Him. Abraham exemplified this by being willing to sacrifice to the Lord his only child, the joy of his life (Gn 22:10-12). We must be willing to make similar sacrifices. If we believe that Jesus is God, we should be willing to totally abandon our lives to Him.

What does your life indicate about your faith in Jesus’ divinity? Will you die in your sins or will you conquer the world because you believe in Jesus as Son of God, that is, God? (1 Jn 5:5)

Prayer: Jesus, "my Lord and my God!" (Jn 20:28)

Promise: "In your descendants all the nations of the earth shall find blessing — all this because you obeyed My command." —Gn 22:18

Praise: St. Junipero Serra, despite a leg injury sustained in Mexico, brought the word of the one, true God to the indigenous people of California.

(Join us at Our Lady of Guadalupe Discipleship Center this summer for a series of powerful retreats. If you hunger for a deeper conversion and closer union with the Lord, this is the place and now is the time. Call 513-373-2397 to register or see www.presentationministries.com.)

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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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FOR CRYING OUT LOUD - One Bread, One Body, 06/30/2021

Wednesday, June 30, 2021, First Martyrs of Rome

Genesis 21:5, 8-20
Psalm 34:7-8, 10-13
Matthew 8:28-34
View Readings

FOR CRYING OUT LOUD
"She said to herself, 'Let me not watch to see the child die.' As she sat opposite him, he began to cry." —Genesis 21:16-17

When children cry, they may be praying. The Lord hears the cry of the poor, especially poor little children. In response to children crying, the Lord sends the guardian angels of these children to deal with the problem. He sends angels to take custody of our lives (Bar 6:6). These guardian angels are not fat little babies themselves, as artists have often pictured them. Guardian angels are mighty creatures not to be trifled with (see Rv 19:17). For example, when Zechariah seemed less than impressed with the angel Gabriel’s message, he was struck dumb for nine months (Lk 1:19-20).

Babies throughout the world are crying out with silent screams as they are aborted. Other babies and older children are crying for food as they starve because of the selfishness and unjust politics of others. Some children are abused physically, sexually, and/or psychologically and are even sexually exploited through pornography. Millions of angels are being marshaled in response to these deafening cries from millions of babies and children. Jesus warned: “See that you never despise one of these little ones. I assure you, their angels in heaven constantly behold My heavenly Father’s face” (Mt 18:10).

Prayer: Father, may my angel guard me as I serve You in obedient faith.

Promise: "The demons kept appealing to Him, 'If You expel us, send us into the herd of swine.' He answered, 'Out with you!' " —Mt 8:31-32

Praise: According to the Roman historian Tacitus in 64 AD, many Christians were put to death because of their "hatred of the human race." The First Martyrs of Rome are honored for virtue, not hatred!

(For a related teaching on Archangels, order, listen to, or download our CD 61-3 or DVD 61 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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UPON THIS ROCK - One Bread, One Body, 06/29/2021

Tuesday, June 29, 2021, Sts. Peter & Paul

Acts 12:1-11
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18
Psalm 34:2-9
Matthew 16:13-19

View Readings

UPON THIS ROCK
" 'You are the Messiah,' Simon Peter answered, 'the Son of the living God!' " ––Matthew 16:16

How did Jesus intend to hand on the faith to future generations? Let’s look at the words of our Lord to St. Peter in today’s Gospel. “I for My part declare to you, you are ‘Rock,’ and on this rock I will build My church, and the jaws of death shall not prevail against it. I will entrust to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you declare bound on earth shall be bound in heaven; whatever you declare loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Mt 16:18-19). Jesus didn’t write an instruction manual.  He chose a lowly fisherman (Mk 1:16) to lead the Church. From the beginning, Peter felt unworthy of his apostolic calling, saying: “Leave me, Lord.  I am a sinful man” (Lk 5:8).

St. Paul also had a rocky start. He declared:  “I am the least of the apostles; in fact, because I persecuted the church of God, I do not even deserve the name” (1 Cor 15:9). But Jesus didn’t leave Paul to die in his sins. “This man is the instrument I have chosen to bring My name to the Gentiles” (Acts 9:15; cf 2 Tm 4:17).

If you’re feeling unworthy as an evangelist, join the club! We tend to place saints on a pedestal. But many come from humble beginnings. Look to Sts. Peter and Paul for inspiration, not exasperation. They were simply touched by grace. How are we different?

Prayer: Father, I pray for the intentions of the Pope, successor of St. Peter and Bishop of Rome.

Promise: "I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears." ––Ps 34:5

Praise: St. Peter gave St. Paul the "handclasp of fellowship" (Gal 2:9). Thank you, Lord, for establishing an apostolic Church.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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“WITH GOD THERE IS NO FAVORITISM” (Rm 2:11) - One Bread, One Body, 06/28/2021

Monday, June 28, 2021, St. Irenaeus

Genesis 18:16-33
Psalm 103:1-4, 8-11
Matthew 8:18-22
View Readings

"WITH GOD THERE IS NO FAVORITISM" (Rm 2:11)
"Will You sweep away the innocent with the guilty?" —Genesis 18:23

The Lord is extremely merciful to the guilty (Ps 103:10). He is rich in mercy and slow to anger (Eph 2:4; Ps 103:8). God showers the warming sun and healing rain on the innocent and the guilty alike (Mt 5:45). To those caught red-handed in their guilt, the Lord says: “Nor do I condemn you. You may go. But from now on, avoid this sin” (Jn 8:11).

Jesus, the truly innocent One, Who is without sin and carries no personal guilt, comes as the spotless Lamb of God, freely sacrificed to atone for the guilty (Heb 4:15). He took on Himself the sins of the world, your sins and mine, atoning for the sins of the guilty with His own innocent blood. The Innocent dies, not with the guilty, but instead of the guilty.

Why would He do this for us? God is passionately in love with us. He would endure anything, even death on a cross (see Phil 2:8), so we could spend eternity with Him. In response to such love, let us surrender our lives to the Lord, take up our cross, and follow in His footsteps (Lk 9:23).

Prayer: Lord, with St. Paul, I say: "I have been crucified with Christ, and the life I live now is not my own: Christ is living in me. I still live my human life, but it is a life of faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me" (Gal 2:19-20).

Promise: "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits; He pardons all your iniquities, He heals all your ills." —Ps 103:2-3

Praise: St. Irenaeus overcame heresy by applying to each error the truths of Scripture and the teachings of the apostles.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(For a related teaching on Unforgiveness is the Cause, order, view or download our leaflet or order, listen to or download our CD 41-1 or DVD 41 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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HOW TO RISE FROM THE DEAD - One Bread, One Body, 06/27/2021

Sunday, June 27, 2021, 13th Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15
Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13
Mark 5:21-43

View Readings

HOW TO RISE FROM THE DEAD
"God formed man to be imperishable; the image of His own nature He made him." —Wisdom 2:23

The Lord wants us to rise from the dead. He will do this by His almighty power, but we must let it be done (see Lk 1:38). We let the Lord raise us from the dead by believing in Him. Jesus told Jairus at the news of his daughter’s death: “Fear is useless. What is needed is trust” (Mk 5:36). At the cemetery following Lazarus’ death, Jesus likewise said: “I am the Resurrection and the Life: whoever believes in Me, though he should die, will come to life” (Jn 11:25-26).

We believe Jesus not only concerning the resurrection, but in everything. We believe Jesus’ words that if we feed on His Flesh and drink His Blood, we have life eternal and will be raised from the dead (Jn 6:54). We believe that, if we die with Jesus through Baptism and daily self-denial, we will live with Jesus forever (see 2 Tm 2:11). We believe that Jesus baptizes us in the Holy Spirit (Mk 1:8) and we even believe that the Spirit dwelling within us will raise us from the dead (Rm 8:11).

Our resurrection from the dead is part of our salvation in Jesus. Therefore, resurrection is a free gift to be claimed by faith. Let us believe in Jesus and look forward with joy to our deaths. In Jesus, our souls will rise immediately at our death, and our bodies will rise on the last day when Jesus comes again (Catechism, 997).

Prayer: Father, give me faith to move mountains (Mt 17:20), even the mountain of death.

Promise: Just as you are rich in every respect, in faith and discourse, in knowledge, in total concern, and in the love we bear you, so may you abound in this charity." —2 Cor 8:7

Praise: "Your father Abraham rejoiced that he might see My day. He saw it and was glad" (Jn 8:56). Praise the risen Jesus, eternal Son of God!

(For a related teaching on Jesus, the Redeemer, order, listen to, or download our CD 50-3 or DVD 50 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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STAYING POWER - One Bread, One Body, 06/26/2021

Saturday, June 26, 2021,

Genesis 18:1-15
Luke 1:46-50, 53-55
Matthew 8:5-17
View Readings

STAYING POWER
"Sir, if I may ask You this favor, please do not go on past Your servant." —Genesis 18:3

Like Abraham, we can have the Lord right in front of us, but if we don’t ask Him to stay, He may go right on past us. For example, when Jesus was walking on the water, He meant to pass by the apostles (Mk 6:48). But when they cried out to Him, Jesus “got into the boat with them and the wind died down” (Mk 6:51). Also, on Resurrection day, when Jesus had reached Emmaus with His two disciples, “He acted as if He were going farther. But they pressed Him: ‘Stay with us’... so He went in to stay with them” (Lk 24:28-29).

In some ways, Jesus appears to be reserved and quiet, “not crying out, not shouting, not making His voice heard in the street. A bruised reed He shall not break, and a smoldering wick He shall not quench” (Is 42:2-3). He won’t force Himself on you. He’ll let you ignore Him or even crucify Him. He often whispers (1 Kgs 19:12), and sometimes is silent (Mt 27:12, 14). If you don’t want Him around, He’ll leave, shaking the dust from His feet (Mt 10:14). Jesus respects our freedom, almost too much. He’ll let us reject Him forever. He’ll even allow us to choose to be separated from Him forever. That’s called hell.

Ask Jesus to stay the night with you, and even the day. Ask Him to stay forever. He says: “Here I stand, knocking at the door. If anyone hears Me calling and opens the door, I will enter his house” (Rv 3:20). Invite Him in.

Prayer: Jesus, give me the grace to get rid of anything that prevents You from staying with me.

Promise: "He expelled the spirits by a simple command." —Mt 8:16

Praise: Susan is a novice, preparing to pledge herself to Jesus, the Bridgegroom, in consecrated religious life.

(For a related teaching on Hearing God, order, view or download our leaflet or order, listen to or download our CD 45-1 or DVD 45 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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 LAST LAUGH - One Bread, One Body, 06/25/2021

Friday, June 25, 2021,

Genesis 17:1, 9-10, 15-22
Psalm 128:1-5
Matthew 8:1-4
View Readings

THE LAST LAUGH
"Abraham prostrated himself and laughed as he said to himself, 'Can a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Or can Sarah give birth at ninety?' " —Genesis 17:17

Abraham and Sarah laughed at jokes God didn’t even tell (Gn 18:12). We often laugh when God is serious. God is serious about fulfilling His promises. He’s serious about healing the leprous (Mt 8:3) and those incurable by medical standards. Many times doctors and Christians have laughed at God before He healed the terminally ill or even raised the dead (Mt 10:8).

The Lord is also extremely serious about saving us. Nobody in their right mind cracks a smile at the foot of the cross. He’s serious about cleansing us of our sins in His blood. Shed blood is no laughing matter.

However, the Lord isn’t all serious. He laughs at the learned and clever who take themselves too seriously (Lk 10:21; cf 1 Cor 1:25). He gets a laugh out of mighty nations who think they’re something more than a moment in time (Ps 2:4). He considers our preoccupation with money and material possessions ludicrous. It would be even more hilarious if we weren’t so foolish (Lk 12:20).

The Lord laughs a lot and even cries (Lk 19:41). We do the same. Yet do we laugh and cry for the same reasons as He does?

Prayer: Father, teach me to laugh when You laugh and cry when You cry (Jas 4:9).

Promise: "Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him and said, 'I do will it. Be cured.' Immediately the man's leprosy disappeared." —Mt 8:3

Praise: Robert maintains an Internet ministry that encourages Christians to be on fire with the Word and let it shine in society.



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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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GREAT, GREATER, GREATEST - One Bread, One Body, 06/24/2021

Thursday, June 24, 2021, Birth of St. John the Baptizer

Isaiah 49:1-6
Acts 13:22-26
Psalm 139:1-3, 13-15
Luke 1:57-66, 80

View Readings

GREAT, GREATER, GREATEST
"Was not the hand of the Lord upon him?" —Luke 1:66

St. John the Baptizer was born of a barren woman (Lk 1:7). His father, Zechariah, was deaf and dumb throughout the nine months of Elizabeth’s pregnancy (Lk 1:20, 62). Zechariah was miraculously healed at John’s circumcision (Lk 1:64). These astounding events surrounding the conception and birth of John the Baptizer prompted the question: “What will this child be?” (Lk 1:66)

The answers to this question are:

1)      John the Baptizer was the “prophet of the Most High” (Lk 1:76).

2)      He was the new Elijah (Lk 1:17; Mt 11:14).

3)      “He was the lamp, set aflame and burning bright” (Jn 5:35).

4)      John was “a voice in the desert, crying out: ‘Make straight the way of the Lord!’ ” (Jn 1:23)

5)      He was not “a reed swaying in the wind” or “someone luxuriously dressed” (Mt 11:7-8).

6)      He was not worthy to unfasten Jesus’ sandals (Acts 13:25).

7)      John the Baptizer was the greatest person that had ever been born of woman up to that time (Mt 11:11).

Yet you and I, “the least born into the kingdom of God,” are greater than John (Mt 11:11). John the Baptizer was the greatest, but we are greater than the greatest because of what Jesus has done in our lives.

Prayer: Jesus, You are the Greatest, and I am in You and You in me (Jn 6:56).

Promise: "His mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he began to speak in praise of God." —Lk 1:64

Praise: "If you are prepared to accept it, he is Elijah, the one who was certain to come" (Mt 11:14). Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing the truth about St. John the Baptizer!



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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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COVENANT-MAKER - One Bread, One Body, 06/23/2021

Wednesday, June 23, 2021,

Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9
Matthew 7:15-20
View Readings

COVENANT-MAKER
"He remembers forever His covenant which He made binding for a thousand generations — which He entered into with Abraham." —Psalm 105:8-9

God took the initiative to make a covenant, a solemn promise, with Abram. This covenant included a strange ritual: God, represented by a flaming torch, passes physically between the split halves of the sacrificed animals (see Gn 15:9ff). This action is God’s way of swearing that, if He is not faithful to this covenant promise, then may He suffer the fate of the sacrificed animals and be torn in two. It is a most solemn pledge of fidelity to Abram.

Ironically, God did receive the penalty of great suffering, but not for His infidelity. He suffered rather for our infidelity, while Abram received the benefits and blessings of the covenant promise. God made Abram’s “reward very great” (Gn 15:1). He is a God of absolute faithfulness, worthy of our total trust.

God has taken the initiative to make covenants with us as well. Baptism, the Holy Eucharist, and Matrimony, are covenants with God. Let us enter into the covenant with God and remain faithful to our part of the covenant. Renew your covenant with Him.

Prayer: Father, show me today any areas of my life where I don't trust You. Do in me whatever You must in order to do through me whatever You will.

Promise: "Look to the Lord in His strength; seek to serve Him constantly." —Ps 105:4

Praise: Paul and Clara gather their teenaged children and their friends for prayer and praise before their family's image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

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

(Our Retreat Center offers retreats this summer. July 5-7, study the Sacraments, July 9-11 Discover your Spiritual Gifts, and July 16-18 Intercession and Healing. For a full list of all retreats or to register, see www.presentationministries.com.)

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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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PEARLS AND PIGS - One Bread, One Body, 06/22/2021

Tuesday, June 22, 2021, St. Paulinus of Nola, St. John Fisher & St. Thomas More

Genesis 13:2, 5-18
Psalm 15:2-5
Matthew 7:6, 12-14
View Readings

PEARLS AND PIGS
"Do not give what is holy to dogs or toss your pearls before swine. They will trample them under foot, at best, and perhaps even tear you to shreds." —Matthew 7:6

Have you ever been tempted to toss your pearls before swine? Even if we take this command to mean: “Don’t share the pearls of the Gospel with the swine-eating Gentiles,” the first Jewish Christians did not initially evangelize the Gentiles. In fact, the Lord did call the Jewish Christians to evangelize the Gentiles, but only after they had first devoted themselves to evangelizing the Jews.

Are we saying that God both commands us to toss our pearls before swine and not to toss our pearls before swine? The point is not the pearls or the swine but the timing. Could it be that you’re working at the church when you should be working at home? Maybe you’re sharing the Gospel with strangers but not with your wife.

What if you’re not tossing the pearls of the Gospel before swine? What if your timing’s off because you’re not obeying God? We should be evangelizing whether we want to or not. We should be evangelizing first those closest to us, especially those the hardest to talk to. We should be evangelizing those that the Lord assigns to us and not those we have chosen. We toss our pearls before swine when we do the “right” thing at the wrong time, to the wrong people, or in the wrong place.

Prayer: Father, may I do it Your way, all the way and all the time.

Promise: "I will make your descendants like the dust of the earth; if anyone could count the dust of the earth, your descendants too might be counted." —Gn 13:16

Praise: St. John Fisher was not only a bishop and cardinal, but also a leading intellectual in England. He courageously defended the validity of King Henry VIII's marriage, winning a martyr's crown.



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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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A LONG-DISTANCE CALL - One Bread, One Body, 06/21/2021

Monday, June 21, 2021, St. Aloysius Gonzaga

Genesis 12:1-9
Psalm 33:12-13, 18-20, 22
Matthew 7:1-5
View Readings

A LONG-DISTANCE CALL
"Go forth...to a land that I will show you." —Genesis 12:1

Over three decades ago, God called our family to leave behind all that was familiar, move hundreds of miles, and join Presentation Ministries as volunteers. In a small way, I came to learn some of what Abram learned about following the Lord:

• When you step away from what is familiar to you, you allow God to become more familiar to you.
• Before the Lord calls you somewhere, He has already prepared everything for you (Heb 11:16).
• “All depends on faith, everything is grace” (Rm 4:16). Often God doesn’t provide the grace until you step out in obedient faith. Then the grace arrives without fail.
• “You have no idea what kind of life will be yours tomorrow” (Jas 4:14). So don’t worry about tomorrow (Mt 6:34).
• Whatever you give up for God’s sake and the Gospel will return to you a hundredfold in some way (Mk 10:29-30).
• Though there are personal benefits to obeying God’s call, it’s not about you. It’s about God blessing others through you (Gn 12:3; see 1 Cor 12:7).
• Jesus is always with you — always (Mt 28:20; Ps 23:4).
• “Fear is useless. What is needed is trust” (Mk 5:36).
• God’s timing is perfect — far better than ours.
• Only in the Holy Spirit is to be found the critically necessary balance between actively stepping out in faith and having the docility to let it be done to you (Lk 1:38).

Prayer: Lord, "here I am...send me!" (Is 6:8)

Promise: "The measure with which you measure will be used to measure you." —Mt 7:2

Praise: St. Aloysius Gonzaga gave up his position in the royal courts to join the Society of Jesus. He chose for himself a life of penance. He served plague victims and eventually died of the plague at the age of 23.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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A CONVINCED CHRISTIAN - One Bread, One Body, 06/20/2021

Sunday, June 20, 2021, 12th Sunday Ordinary Time

Job 38:1, 8-11
2 Corinthians 5:14-17
Psalm 107:23-26, 28-31
Mark 4:35-41

View Readings

A CONVINCED CHRISTIAN
"The love of Christ impels us who have reached the conviction that since One died for all, all died." —2 Corinthians 5:14

When we have reached the conviction that since One died for all, all died, three things happen:

• We no longer live for ourselves but for Him Who died for us (2 Cor 5:15).
• We no longer look on anyone, including Jesus, “in terms of mere human judgment” (2 Cor 5:16).
• We are impelled by love rather than motivated by a mixture of fear, pride, and pressure (2 Cor 5:14).

Obviously, reaching this conviction of Jesus’ death and our death with Him is one of the most important breakthroughs in a person’s life. Every Christian should have this realization, but clearly many do not, or we would live no longer for ourselves.

Right now, ask the Holy Spirit to take you to the cross. Through the cross, the world will be crucified to you and you to the world (Gal 6:14). The Spirit will confirm, as only He can, that we who have given our lives to the Lord have been crucified with Him (Rm 6:6) and thereby have crucified our flesh with its passions and desires (Gal 5:24). We can “reach this conviction” only by the Spirit. When we do, we become a Christian not only in name but in attitude, motivation, and goals. We live no longer for self but for Jesus.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, take me to Calvary and convince me.

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: "Remain faithful until death and I will give you the crown of life" (see Rv 2:10). Praise You, risen Lord Jesus. Your Resurrection provides hope for our future resurrection.

(For a related teaching on Crucified to the World, order, listen to, or download our CD 40A-3 or DVD 40A 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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LIFE-STYLE AND DEATH-STYLE - One Bread, One Body, 06/19/2021

Saturday, June 19, 2021, St. Romuald

2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Psalm 34:8-13
Matthew 6:24-34
View Readings

LIFE-STYLE AND DEATH-STYLE
"Stop worrying, then, over questions like, 'What are we to eat, or what are we to drink, or what are we to wear?' " —Matthew 6:31

Because many of us are so affluent, we don’t worry about food, drink, or clothes. Instead we worry about retirement, inflation, and investments. We are more like Solomon than like the “lilies of the fields” (see Mt 6:28-29). Trusting in the Lord as the birds do is “for the birds,” as far as we’re concerned (see Mt 6:26).

Because of our self-seeking, pleasure-seeking lifestyle, we regard the Bible and especially the Sermon on the Mount as archaic and impractical. Our lifestyle is putting us out of touch with God’s Word and God Himself, and therefore putting us out of touch with reality. We are following in the footsteps of the Esaus and Judases of all times who tried to gain their lives and thereby lost them (Lk 9:24), selling our birthright for a petty pleasure (see Gn 25:33-34) or even for thirty pieces of silver (see Mt 26:15). We refuse to admit our sin, because we are blinded by the god of the present age (2 Cor 4:4). Our lifestyle has become our death-style.

“I declare and solemnly attest in the Lord that you must no longer live as the pagans do” (Eph 4:17). “You have devoted enough time to what the pagans enjoy” (1 Pt 4:3).

Prayer: Father, may I have no love for the worldly lifestyle that ignores You (1 Jn 2:15). May I love You with all my heart.

Promise: "For when I am powerless, it is then that I am strong." —2 Cor 12:10

Praise: After seeing his father kill a man in a duel, St. Romuald turned his back on a life of worldliness to enter a monastery and eventually started other monasteries.

(For a related teaching on Living in Reality, order, view or download our book or order, listen to, or download our four-part CD series beginning with CD 38-1 or our two-part DVD series beginning with DVD 38 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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EYE OF THE HURRICANE - One Bread, One Body, 06/18/2021

Friday, June 18, 2021,

2 Corinthians 11:18, 21-30
Psalm 34:2-7
Matthew 6:19-23
View Readings

EYE OF THE HURRICANE
"If your eyes are good, your body will be filled with light." —Matthew 6:22

Are your eyes good? Good eyes see only what God wants them to see. Good eyes do not look around carelessly (see Prv 4:25-27). That’s too dangerous. Good eyes are selective. We close our eyes lest we look on evil (Is 33:15). It’s important to protect them from the evil one. We must hold faith up as a shield (Eph 6:16) or be hit in the eye and be wounded.

Our eyes and thoughts “should be wholly directed to all that is true, all that deserves respect, all that is honest, pure, admirable, decent, virtuous, or worthy of praise” (Phil 4:8). Otherwise, we will carelessly expose ourselves to temptation. The forbidden fruit of sin is “pleasing to the eyes” (Gn 3:6). We will be tempted to treasure it and fall into sin. “Remember, where your treasure is, there your heart is also” (Mt 6:21).

Jesus emphasized controlling our eyes to the point of saying, “If your right eye is your trouble, gouge it out and throw it away! Better to lose part of your body than to have it all cast into Gehenna” (Mt 5:29). Girl-watching or boy-watching are not summer sports; rather, they are gambling with eternal salvation and damnation. Immodest dress is extremely serious. An afternoon “sight-seeing” at the pool could lead to an eternity in the fires of Gehenna. Indiscriminate TV viewing is Russian roulette. Handheld electronic devices open wide the path to destruction.  Jesus is not over-reacting. He is the Truth (Jn 14:6); we must repent and change.

Prayer: Jesus, I accept You as Lord and Savior of my eyes.

Promise: "Do not lay up for yourselves an earthly treasure." —Mt 6:19

Praise: Joseph and Martha insist that their children dress modestly and have the proper mindset for Church. They want God to be glorified and others to not be tempted during Holy Mass.



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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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FATHER’S DAY - One Bread, One Body, 06/17/2021

Thursday, June 17, 2021,

2 Corinthians 11:1-11
Psalm 111:1-4, 7-8
Matthew 6:7-15
View Readings

FATHER'S DAY
"Your Father knows what you need." —Matthew 6:8

The essence of the Christian life is knowing and believing in God the Father’s love for us (1 Jn 4:16). Jesus was sent to reveal the Father’s love (Jn 15:9). The Holy Spirit cries out in our hearts “Abba,” that is, “Father” (Rm 8:15; Gal 4:6). When Jesus taught us to pray, He taught us to say “Our Father” (Mt 6:9).

When Satan tempts us, he questions whether we are sons and daughters of God the Father (Mt 4:3, 6). Prayer is primarily expressing and deepening our relationship with our Father through the Son and in the Spirit. Prayer is a preoccupation with our Father’s name, kingdom, and will (Mt 6:9-10). Prayer is an experience of our Father as Provider, Forgiver, and Protector (Mt 6:11-13).

When we pray, we should experience love and security because of Abba’s daily provision, forgiveness, and protection. For us human beings to function properly, we must constantly breathe in this atmosphere of Abba’s love. “God is Love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him” (1 Jn 4:16).

Prayer: Abba, I need Your love more than life itself (Ps 63:4).

Promise: "I have given you in marriage to one Husband, presenting you as a chaste virgin to Christ." —2 Cor 11:2

Praise: Although Joe has never mentioned his faith at work, other then placing a small crucifix on his desk, a non-Christian co-worker told Joe he noticed that Christians were better able to bear bad news than most others.

(For a related teaching on Divine Love, order, listen to, or download our CD 52-3 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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GIVING-LIVING - One Bread, One Body, 06/16/2021

Wednesday, June 16, 2021,

2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Psalm 112:1-4, 9
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
View Readings

GIVING-LIVING
"He who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will reap bountifully." —2 Corinthians 9:6

Some people think that God gives sparingly or bountifully depending on what we deserve. However, God often gives bountifully, no matter what we do. For example, when humanity was giving sparingly, God gave so bountifully that He gave His Son in the Incarnation. Our degree of giving does not so much affect God’s degree of giving; rather, it affects our degree of receiving. When we give bountifully, we open ourselves to receive God’s bountiful giving. Thus, it is better to give than to receive (Acts 20:35; Mk 4:24).

Giving is the atmosphere without which Christians cannot function well. When we cut back giving, we begin choking spiritually. We can’t catch our breath — the breath of the Spirit. Conversely, when we repent of selfishness and give from the heart, the fresh air of the Spirit fills us, and we begin to breathe freely. When we give, we pray, fast, worship, witness, work, and serve better.

In the world, some people go out and buy something when they’re down. In Jesus, we go out and give something to start a revival in our lives. Give! Take a deep breath of the Spirit! Receive!

Prayer: Father, may I be a free, generous, cheerful, and constant giver (see 2 Cor 9:7).

Promise: "Lavishly he gives to the poor; his generosity shall endure forever; his horn shall be exalted in glory." —Ps 112:9

Praise: Mike and Laura abstain from meat every Friday for grace for their children to be freed from the attractions of this world to be attracted to the Lord instead.

(Is Seeking the Kingdom of God of primary importance to you? Attend our retreat on June 28-30 to help you prioritize your life and aim for the things above. Call 513-373-2397 to register or see www.presentationministries.com.)

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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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 GREATEST LOVE - One Bread, One Body, 06/15/2021

Tuesday, June 15, 2021,

2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Psalm 146:2, 5-9
Matthew 5:43-48
View Readings

THE GREATEST LOVE
"My command to you is: love your enemies." —Matthew 5:44 Loving our enemies means to treat them as well as or better than we treat our friends (see Mt 5:45; Lk 15:29).

Loving enemies means praying for them (Mt 5:44) to be blessed by the Lord and then answering our own prayer by bountifully giving to them (see 2 Cor 8:4-5; see also Lk 15:22ff).

Loving enemies means showing affection for them in a way they can receive it (Lk 15:20).

Loving enemies means honoring them in exceptional ways (Lk 15:22-24).

Loving enemies is obviously impossible. It is pure grace. It shows we are children of our heavenly Father (Mt 5:45) and perfected as He is perfect (Mt 5:48).

Loving enemies is shocking, prophetic, and evangelistic. When we truly love our enemies, Jesus’ death on the cross becomes luminous. When we love our enemies, countless knees bend and tongues proclaim: “Jesus Christ is Lord!” (Phil 2:10-11) By God’s grace, love your enemies!

Prayer: Father, I accept Your grace to do the impossible. I love my enemies.

Promise: "You are well acquainted with the favor shown you by our Lord Jesus Christ: how for your sake He made Himself poor though He was rich, so that you might become rich by His poverty." —2 Cor 8:9

Praise: When someone asks Julie about her faith, she always prays, "Come, Holy Spirit," and then she is often surprised at the beautiful words that come to her as she speaks.

(Beginning June 25 and extending for 40 days, we have a series of 13 retreats that will equip you to know, love and serve the Lord. This 40-Day Discipleship Formation Program is the foundation of Presentation Ministries. Come for a few days or for the entire time. For more information, see www.presentationministries.com.)

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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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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“COMPLETE ABSURDITY” - One Bread, One Body, 06/14/2021

Monday, June 14, 2021,

2 Corinthians 6:1-10
Psalm 98:1-4
Matthew 5:38-42
View Readings

"COMPLETE ABSURDITY"
"You have heard the commandment, 'An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.' But what I say to you is: offer no resistance to injury." —Matthew 5:38-39

Most of us grew up in a Christian environment. We’re accustomed to Christian terminology and activities. Because of this, it’s difficult for people to see Christianity objectively. From the point of view of many outsiders, Christianity is “complete absurdity” (1 Cor 1:18). For example, Jesus commanded us to love our enemies (Mt 5:44), “offer no resistance to injury,” even turn the other cheek, give a bonus to anyone who has defrauded us in court, and volunteer to go an extra mile after having been forced to go the first one (Mt 5:39-41).

This sounds absurd, but Jesus followed this literally, even to death on the cross (Phil 2:8). The early Church did so as well, “acting with patient endurance amid trials, difficulties, distresses, beatings, imprisonments, and riots” (2 Cor 6:4-5). Paul describes how outsiders look at Christians: “We are called impostors, yet we are truthful; nobodies who in fact are well known; dead, yet here we are, alive; punished, but not put to death; sorrowful, though we are always rejoicing; poor, yet we enrich many. We seem to have nothing, yet everything is ours!” (2 Cor 6:8-10)

Does this describe you as a Christian? Or have you merely subscribed to a cultural Christianity that is a far cry from the real thing? Is your Christianity “complete absurdity”? Or is it the contemporary lukewarm counterfeit?

Prayer: Lord, I want to be a Christian by Your standards.

Promise: "Now is the acceptable time! Now is the day of salvation!" —2 Cor 6:2

Praise: Joan visits Jesus weekly at adoration. She feels His pressence the rest of the week.

(For a related teaching on A Prophetic Life Style, order, listen to or download our CD 75-3 or DVD 75 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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AWAITING TRIAL - One Bread, One Body, 06/13/2021

Sunday, June 13, 2021, 11th Sunday Ordinary Time

Ezekiel 17:22-24
2 Corinthians 5:6-10
Psalm 92:2-3, 13-16
Mark 4:26-34

View Readings

AWAITING TRIAL
"The lives of all of us are to be revealed before the tribunal of Christ so that each one may receive his recompense, good or bad, according to his life in the body." —2 Corinthians 5:10

We are all awaiting trial. Jesus will judge us based on our faith expressed in action (see Mt 25:31ff). We will be judged according to our fruitfulness as His stewards (Mt 25:14ff). For instance, Jesus expects those who have been given five talents to produce five more (Mt 25:15ff). We are responsible to bear spiritual fruit — to lead many people to repentance, salvation, freedom, peace, and life in Christ. We must be fruitful in making disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19), beginning with our children, grandchildren, co-workers, friends, fellow parishioners, and neighbors. When we die and stand trial, the world should be a much better place for our having lived. Life should be more respected and protected; the poor should have been given justice and mercy; Christ’s kingdom of justice, peace, and joy in the Spirit should be more established (Rm 14:17).

Many of us don’t see an abundant, spiritual fruitfulness in our lives. This is normal to some degree, for the growth of God’s kingdom is invisible at first (Mk 4:27). Even when we can see it, it is at first as small as a mustard seed (Mk 4:31). However, if we are attached to Jesus (Jn 15:5) and if we die to ourselves (Jn 12:24), we will bear abundant fruit and be judged accordingly. Love the Lord; bear fruit; go to trial; go to heaven.

Prayer: Father, by Your grace may my life amount to something great for Your kingdom.

Promise: "We make it our aim to please Him whether we are with Him or away from Him." —2 Cor 5:9

Praise: "Sing joyfully to the Lord, all you lands; break into song; sing praise" (Ps 98:4). Risen Jesus, I will never cease to praise You.

(For a related teaching on Accepting Jesus as Lord, Savior and God, order, view or download our leaflet or order, listen to, or download our CD 43-1 or DVD 43 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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-LOCATED? - One Bread, One Body, 06/12/2021

Saturday, June 12, 2021, Immaculate Heart of Mary

2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12
Luke 2:41-51

or Matthew 5:33-37
View Readings

DIS-LOCATED?
"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation." —2 Corinthians 5:17

An old maxim used by realtors says the worth of a piece of property can be evaluated by the three L’s: location, location, and location. It’s where the property is located that counts. The “three L’s” apply even more fully to Christianity: it’s where you are located that makes the eternal difference. To be Christians, we must be in Christ.

The New Testament refers to being in Christ over ninety times. This expression is not merely Christian jargon: it proclaims the Good News that being located in Jesus makes all the difference. “There is no condemnation now for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rm 8:1). In Jesus, we have redemption (Rm 3:24), sanctification (1 Cor 1:2), freedom (Gal 2:4), and triumph (2 Cor 2:14). Nothing can “separate us from the love of God that comes to us in Christ Jesus” (Rm 8:39). God “has bestowed on us in Christ every spiritual blessing in the heavens!” (Eph 1:3)

If we are not located in Christ, then we are still in the “old order” (2 Cor 5:17). We stand outside of reconciliation with God, and look at everyone “in terms of mere human judgment” (2 Cor 5:16). When we are located in Christ, our whole existence is centered on what He is doing. We gain such a radiant identity in Him that we are made wholly new (2 Cor 5:17).

“In Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Choose “life on high in Christ Jesus” (Phil 3:14).

Prayer: Jesus, may I live no longer for myself but for You (see 2 Cor 5:15).

Promise: "He pardons all your iniquities, He heals all your ills." —Ps 103:3

Praise: "And you yourself shall be pierced with a sword — so that the thoughts of many hearts may be laid bare" (Lk 2:35). Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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UNIMAGINABLE LOVE - One Bread, One Body, 06/11/2021

Friday, June 11, 2021, Sacred Heart of Jesus

Hosea 11:1, 3-4, 8-9
Ephesians 3:8-12, 14-19
Isaiah 12:2-6
John 19:31-37

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UNIMAGINABLE LOVE
"Thus, you will be able to grasp fully, with all the holy ones, the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ's love, and experience this love which surpasses all knowledge, so that you may attain to the fullness of God Himself." —Ephesians 3:18-19

God’s Word promises that by His grace we can fully grasp and personally experience Christ’s love. This is impossible for us, but nothing is impossible with God (Mk 10:27). It’s difficult to imagine experiencing the fullness of Christ’s perfect, infinite, and crucified love. Nonetheless, He will do in our lives more than we can ever ask or imagine (Eph 3:20). “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Cor 2:9).

Jesus has given us an experience of His infinite love through the prophetic vision of the Sacred Heart. No one ever thought of a picture in which the heart was outside the body. This seems bizarre, even repulsive. However, the Sacred Heart has communicated the tender, healing, personal love of God for us. The vision of the Sacred Heart is one of the most confirmed, powerful, and life-changing prophecies in the history of the Church. Every day look at a picture of the Sacred Heart and let the Lord show His love for you in a way you’ve never imagined possible.

Prayer: Jesus, may my heart be overwhelmed by Your love for me (see Hos 11:8).

Promise: "It was I Who taught Ephraim to walk, Who took them in My arms; I drew them with human cords, with bands of love; I fostered them like one who raises an infant to his cheeks." —Hos 11:3-4

Praise: Rosalyn and Al have had a devotion to the Sacred Heart throughout their marriage of over fifty years, and Jesus has always blessed them abundantly.

(For a related teaching on the Sacred Heart, order, listen to, or download our CD 19-1 or DVD 19 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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HIS BURDEN IS LIGHT (Mt 11:30) - One Bread, One Body, 06/10/2021

Thursday, June 10, 2021,

2 Corinthians 3:15—4:1, 3-6
Psalm 85:9-14
Matthew 5:20-26
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HIS BURDEN IS LIGHT (Mt 11:30)

“All of us, gazing on the Lord’s glory with unveiled faces, are being transformed from glory to glory into His very image by the Lord Who is the Spirit.” —2 Corinthians 3:18

The biblical word “glory” can be translated as “weight,” a covering heavy enough to be felt. The Israelites sang of the Lord: “He has covered Himself in glory” (Ex 15:1, JB).

As we bask in the Lord’s glory and worship Him “with unveiled faces,” for example, in Eucharistic adoration, we are clothed in God’s light (2 Cor 3:18; 4:6). We are covered with the weight of God’s glory, as was Moses (Ex 34:29ff). In this sense, we can say that His burden is light; that is, the weight of His glory which covers us is the light reflecting from the face of God.

Jesus says, “You are the light of the world” (Mt 5:14). He shines in your heart so you will “make known the glory of God shining on the face of Christ” (2 Cor 4:6). Recall when you were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4), and it was easy to radiate God’s love to all. People were attracted to the light of Christ shining from your face (see Is 60:3; Jn 5:35). Eventually the weight, or burden, of glory simply became the weight of always having to be “on” for Jesus. You grew weary under this burden, and looked for relief outside of Jesus. You fell from your early love (Rv 2:4). You avoided those who had flocked to you for a glimpse of the light of Christ shining through you.

Does this describe you? Have you put your light under a bushel basket? (Mt 5:15) Come to Jesus (Mt 11:28). He loves you! He will refresh you, for His burden is light, that is, the light of glory shining from His face, a light burden to bear (Mt 11:29-30).

Prayer: Jesus, be the Lord of my face. Set my life on fire.

Promise: "The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." —2 Cor 3:17

Praise: Sean had a scholarship to law school when God called him to the priesthood. He now preaches a powerful message of obedience to God and His Church.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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TEACH THE OLD TESTAMENT - One Bread, One Body, 06/09/2021

Wednesday, June 9, 2021, St. Ephrem of Syria

2 Corinthians 3:4-11
Psalm 99:5-9
Matthew 5:17-19
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TEACH THE OLD TESTAMENT
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law and the Prophets." —Matthew 5:17

When the Bible speaks of “the Law and the Prophets,” it refers to the Old Testament. Peter preached from the Old Testament on the day of Pentecost, and three thousand people received the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:17, 25, 34). “The ministry of the Spirit” (2 Cor 3:8) began by the preaching of the ministry of the Law and the Prophets.

Jesus’ Transfiguration featured the Law, represented by Moses, and the Prophets, represented by Elijah (Lk 9:30). When Jesus was transfigured into a greater glory (Lk 9:29ff), He didn’t just bypass the old covenant, He fulfilled it (Mt 5:17). Thus the presence of Moses and Elijah at His Transfiguration shows the Old Testament has a place in the New Testament’s ministry of the Spirit.

On Easter evening, Jesus changed the hearts of His two disciples on the road to Emmaus by opening the Scriptures to them, which at that point consisted of only the Old Testament. Jesus began with “Moses and all the prophets” and “interpreted for them every passage of Scripture which referred to Him” (Lk 24:27).

Jesus declared that the Old Testament is more capable of effecting change on a hard heart than would be the sight of a man risen from the dead! (Lk 16:31) Read the Old Testament. Then teach the Old Testament to a hard-hearted world (Mt 5:19).

Prayer: Holy Spirit, show me how the Old Testament is fulfilled in the New, and how the New Testament is revealed by the Old (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 129).

Promise: "This great confidence in God is ours, through Christ." —2 Cor 3:4

Praise: St. Ephrem creatively fought heresies he encountered in the Fourth Century. He wrote hymns using the heretics' own melodies, but incorporated lyrics teaching authentic Catholic doctrine.

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

(Be a Bible teacher. For encouragement, order, listen to, or download our six CD series, Bible Teachers, beginning with CD 117-1 or our three-part series starting with DVD V-117 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

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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