PURE HOLINESS - One Bread, One Body, 11/01/2022

Tuesday, November 1, 2022, All Saints

Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14
1 John 3:1-3
Psalm 24:1-6
View Readings

PURE HOLINESS
"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." —Matthew 5:8, RSV-CE

Saints see God, for they are pure in heart. They are pure as Jesus is pure (1 Jn 3:3). “They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Rv 7:14). “They are pure and follow the Lamb wherever He goes” (Rv 14:4). Saints have been refined “like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord” (Mal 3:3). “By obedience to the truth,” saints “have purified” themselves “for a genuine love” of their brothers and sisters (1 Pt 1:22). Jesus has opened “a fountain to purify from sin and uncleanness” (Zec 13:1).

Therefore, “let us purify ourselves from every defilement of flesh and spirit, and in the fear of God strive to fulfill our consecration perfectly” (2 Cor 7:1). Let us purify ourselves completely as soon as possible. Let us finish our purgatory before death and in the near future. This will please the Lord and make us more holy, free, and joyful. The more purified we are in our holiness, the deeper is our love for others and the greater is our service to them.

What the world needs now is what it has always needed — great saints. “Holy men and women have always been the source and origin of renewal in the most difficult circumstances throughout the Church’s history. Today we have a tremendous need of saints, for whom we must assiduously implore God” (Consecrated Life, Pope St. John Paul II, 35). Be pure to be holy.

Prayer: Father, make me holy as soon as possible — whatever it takes.

Promise: "Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? Or who may stand in His holy place? He whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain." —Ps 24:3-4

Praise: The Church's greatest saints were made of flesh and blood, just like us. How will we imitate them in serving the risen Jesus?



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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WHAT IF JESUS IS RIGHT AGAIN? - One Bread, One Body, 10/31/2022

Monday, October 31, 2022,

Philippians 2:1-4
Psalm 131:1-3
Luke 14:12-14
View Readings

WHAT IF JESUS IS RIGHT AGAIN?
"When you have a reception, invite beggars and the crippled, the lame and the blind." —Luke 14:13

The welfare system is not working. Thank God it’s keeping people alive. However, it’s not setting them free. It may even be enslaving and conditioning people in a generational cycle.

The nuclear family is under attack. Thank God for marital faithfulness in a society of broken promises, broken families, and broken hearts. Yet the nuclear family is not thriving. It is struggling merely to survive.

What if the nuclear family became an extended family — even a Christian community? What if welfare was not a government program? What if family hospitality took the place of welfare? What if Jesus intends today’s Gospel reading to be taken seriously? What if Jesus is right again about loving the poor, offering hospitality, being family, and living life?

Are you trying to share meals with “beggars and the crippled, the lame and the blind”? (Lk 14:13) Are you caring for the poor in a hands-on way? Are you caring for your brothers and sisters in Christ in a practical way?

If we lived in Christian community as described in Acts of the Apostles, maybe we would do the acts of the apostles in feeding and freeing the poor. Jesus is right.

Prayer: Father, may my love for the poor open me to living in practical Christian community.

Promise: "Hope in the Lord, both now and forever." —Ps 131:3

Praise: Clarence took in a fellow Christian when he became homeless until he found a job again.

(For an Introduction to Small Christian Communities, view, download or order our booklet or listen to, download or order our CD 76-1 and CD 76-3 or DVD 76 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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MY SAVIOR - One Bread, One Body, 10/30/2022

Sunday, October 30, 2022, 31st Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 11:22—12:2
2 Thessalonians 1:11—2:2
Psalm 145:1-2, 8-11, 13-14
View Readings

MY SAVIOR
"The Son of Man has come to search out and save what was lost." —Luke 19:10

Although God is omnipotent and almighty, He rebukes us gently, little by little, so that we may be able to bear it and be encouraged by His mercy to grow in faith, obedience, and holiness.

Thus, Jesus stayed with sinners. He came to seek and save sinners (Lk 19:10). Even at the end of His life, Jesus was crucified between two sinners (Lk 23:33). He was made to be sin, as it were, for those who need salvation from sin (2 Cor 5:21). Sinners at least are in the position to eventually know they need Jesus (see Lk 18:9ff). Self-righteous people don’t think they need Jesus. They are in danger of becoming, in effect, their own gods and not realizing they are in need of a Savior.

We need to realize that we cannot save ourselves (Ps 49:8; Is 26:18). We are less than “a drop of morning dew” (Wis 11:22). Once we know that our salvation is in God and in Him alone, we then know that we cannot stand before God on our own. God is far greater than the universe, and we are so small before Him. We need a Savior. The Good News is that we have a Savior! (Acts 4:12) Accept Jesus, “the Savior of the world” (Jn 4:42).

Prayer: Father, "be merciful to me, a sinner" (Lk 18:13).

Promise: "We pray for you always that our God may make you worthy of His call, and fulfill by His power every honest intention and work of faith." —2 Thes 1:11

Praise: "I have the same hope in God as these men have that there is to be a resurrection of the good and the wicked alike" (Acts 24:15). Risen Jesus, grace me to be among Your elect.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Married couples, we have a retreat just for you Nov. 11-12. Spend time with the Lord and other faith-filled couples at our beautiful retreat center in Adams Co. Ohio. Call 513-373-2397 or see www.presentationministries.com for information or to register.)

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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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DOWNWARDLY MOBILE - One Bread, One Body, 10/29/2022

Saturday, October 29, 2022,

Philippians 1:18-26
Psalm 42:2-3, 5
Luke 14:1, 7-11
View Readings

DOWNWARDLY MOBILE
"What you should do when you have been invited is go and sit in the lowest place." —Luke 14:10

Jesus compared life to a wedding party at which we must be careful to “sit in the lowest place.” The Lord may change our seat, but that’s up to Him. Our responsibility is to sit in the lowest place. Which are the lowest places in life? Low-paying jobs, houses or apartments in poor areas, a simple lifestyle, a single life for the Lord, the responsibility of a large family, or a religious vocation are sometimes the lowest places.

Some of today’s lowest places were formerly high places, and the Lord may make them high places again when He exalts those who have humbled themselves (Lk 14:11). Then we will look for other low places. Jesus did this when He took the lowest place by becoming man (Phil 2:7). Then He chose to be born in a stable and laid in a manger (Lk 2:7). He found an even lower place by being crucified as a criminal (Lk 23:33). Jesus still looked for a place lower than the lowest. He found it in the Eucharist. Here Jesus became present under the appearances of common bread and wine, becoming our spiritual food and drink (see Jn 6:55).

Some Christians are called to be downwardly mobile — looking for less money, a simpler lifestyle, or a less appreciated job. We are absurd to the world as Jesus is (see 1 Cor 1:18).

Prayer: Father, may I not miss any opportunity to "empty" myself as Jesus did (see Phil 2:7).

Promise: "All that matters is that in any and every way, whether from specious motives or genuine ones, Christ is being proclaimed!" —Phil 1:18

Praise: Luke joyfully works in a low-paying job and doing volunteer work in solidarity with the involuntarily poor.

(For a related teaching on Life Decisions, view, download or order our booklet or listen to, download or order our CD 44-1 or DVD 44 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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TWO TOO - One Bread, One Body, 10/28/2022

Friday, October 28, 2022, Sts. Simon & Jude

Ephesians 2:19-22
Psalm 19:2-5
Luke 6:12-16
View Readings

TWO TOO
"At daybreak He called His disciples and selected twelve of them to be His apostles: Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter, and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot." —Luke 6:13-16

Jesus sent out His disciples two by two (Lk 10:1). When Jesus named the apostles, He listed them in twosomes (Lk 6:14ff; Mt 10:2ff). In Luke’s Gospel, Jude (short for Judas) is listed as the partner of “Judas Iscariot, who turned traitor” (Lk 6:16). In Matthew’s Gospel, Simon the Zealot is listed as Judas’ partner. Therefore, it’s quite possible that Jude and Simon were especially close to Judas. They may have sensed something missing in Judas’ relationship with Jesus. They may have suspected that Judas was a treasurer-thief, stealing from Jesus and the other apostles (see Jn 12:6). When Judas betrayed Christ and sold Him for thirty pieces of silver (Mt 26:14-15), what did Simon and Jude think? Did they feel guilty, deceived, depressed, or angry? When Judas committed suicide (see Mt 27:3-5), how did Simon and Jude take it? Did they feel even more guilt and confusion? In the upper room before Pentecost, how did Simon and Jude feel when Peter brought up the subject of Judas? (see Acts 1:16ff)

Throughout the history of the Church, Simon and Jude have become connected as partners, although never listed in the Bible as such. Possibly, Simon and Jude were partners in trauma, pain, and then healing. Possibly, this is why they can be partners as patrons of the impossible. Sts. Simon and Jude, pray for us.

Prayer: Father, continue to do the impossible in my life.

Promise: "You are fellow citizens of the saints and members of the household of God." —Eph 2:19

Praise: Sts. Simon & Jude were both martyred by the Persians, having spread the gospel in Europe and Asia Minor.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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ATTACK OR BE ATTACKED! - One Bread, One Body, 10/27/2022

Thursday, October 27, 2022,

Ephesians 6:10-20
Psalm 144:1-2, 9-10
Luke 13:31-35
View Readings

ATTACK OR BE ATTACKED!
"Blessed be the Lord, my Rock, Who trains my hands for battle, my fingers for war." —Psalm 144:1

Satan wants to keep Christians on the sidelines, to have Christians sit out the spiritual war. Thus, he can readily plunder much property from the Kingdom of God, end millions of lives in surgical and chemical abortions, ruin families and institutions, and gridlock nations without being opposed.

If Satan can’t keep Christians on the sidelines, then he’ll try to ensure that Christians keep playing defense. He does this by attacking and accusing (see Rv 12:10). To lure Christians into taking their eyes off Jesus, their Commander, Satan distracts them with pleasures (1 Jn 2:16), weakens them through sin and in-fighting (1 Cor 3:3-4), and puts them on the defensive. If you’re always defending, you can’t score, and you can’t win.

Satan prefers to attack. He wants us to play defense all our lives. Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil (1 Jn 3:8). Jesus came to heal us so we could play offense against Satan and the kingdom of darkness, and reclaim what Satan has stolen from the kingdom of God (2 Cor 10:4). Satan fears pure, holy, fearless, humble, obedient, suffering, trusting Christians who fix their eyes on Jesus (Heb 3:1), spend their time on the offense, and attack the gates of hell (Mt 16:18). Repent!

Prayer: Father, purify me so that I will be a zealous, healed, faithful soldier for Your Son Jesus, my Captain.

Promise: "Draw your strength from the Lord and His mighty power." —Eph 6:10

Praise: Joseph led a weekly neighborhood Bible study for over ten years.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(For a related teaching on Spiritual Warfare, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order CD 57-3 or DVD 57 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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 LORD OF THE WORKS AND THE WORKS OF THE LORD - One Bread, One Body, 10/26/2022

Wednesday, October 26, 2022,

Ephesians 6:1-9
Psalm 145:10-14
Luke 13:22-30
View Readings

THE LORD OF THE WORKS AND THE WORKS OF THE LORD
"Let all Your works give You thanks, O Lord." —Psalm 145:10

When the Bible uses the word “slaves,” it usually corresponds to our word “employees.” Thus, we may find five commandments for employees in today’s first reading.

1)      “Obey your human masters with the reverence, the awe, and the sincerity you owe to Christ” (Eph 6:5). This applies not only to “the good and reasonable” bosses, “but even those who are harsh” (1 Pt 2:18). This is not possible naturally, but is a “work of grace” (1 Pt 2:19).

2)      “Do not render service for appearance only and to please men” (Eph 6:6). Paul said: “If I were trying to win man’s approval, I would surely not be serving Christ!” (Gal 1:10)

3)      “Do God’s will with your whole heart as slaves of Christ” (Eph 6:6). Because we love Jesus with our whole heart (see Mt 22:37), we work with our whole heart.

4)      “Give your service willingly” (Eph 6:7). “Everyone must give according to what he has inwardly decided; not sadly, not grudgingly, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor 9:7).

5)      Do “it for the Lord rather than men” (Eph 6:7).

The Bible tells us Who to work for, how to work, how not to work, and how to relate to our bosses. If we work accordingly, not “for perishable food but for food that remains unto life eternal” (Jn 6:27), we will receive an inheritance from the Lord as our reward (Col 3:24). Work for love of the Lord.

Prayer: Father, may I put in a good day's work for You each day.

Promise: "Each one, whether slave or free, will be repaid by the Lord for whatever good he does." —Eph 6:8

Praise: For many years, Sam and his children went to monthly Confession together.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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HOW TO CHANGE HUSBANDS AND THE WORLD - One Bread, One Body, 10/25/2022

Tuesday, October 25, 2022,

Ephesians 5:21-33
Psalm 128:1-5
Luke 13:18-21
View Readings

HOW TO CHANGE HUSBANDS AND THE WORLD
"Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ." —Ephesians 5:21, RSV-CE

We all want to change people. We all need to change people before they drive us crazy. We all don’t want people trying to change us. Do you notice the dilemma?

How can people change without us doing the changing? The Lord commands us to be submissive to one another. By submission, wives set the stage for the Lord to change their husbands, and these wives don’t have to try to do it themselves (which is trying to do the impossible) (Eph 5:22, 24). Moreover, submission is the way the Lord changes all people, not just husbands. If we do what other people want, if we obey and serve them as long as they don’t contradict the Lord, we will find ourselves doing a lot of pointless things. Unlike most pointless things, however, the Lord will use these events to teach others a lesson, to change them for the better (see 1 Pt 3:1-2). Also, through our submission, not only will others learn from their mistakes but we ourselves will change. Our faith will be strengthened. Submission usually doesn’t have good effects immediately. Rather, it often has difficult effects at first. To persevere in submission demands that we walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7).

Through our submission, the Lord changes the world and strengthens our faith. “Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Eph 5:21, RSV-CE).

Prayer: Father, I give up changing people myself. Teach me the wisdom of submission and make me strong enough to do it.

Promise: God's kingdom "is like mustard seed which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a large shrub and the birds of the air nested in its branches." —Lk 13:19

Praise: "O Lord, Your kindness reaches to heaven; Your faithfulness, to the clouds" (Ps 36:6).



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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EVANGELIZE OR ELSE! - One Bread, One Body, 10/22/2022

Saturday, October 22, 2022, Pope St. John Paul II

Ephesians 4:7-16
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 13:1-9
View Readings

EVANGELIZE OR ELSE!
"Perhaps it will bear fruit. If not, it shall be cut down." —Luke 13:9

Jesus said that we either bear fruit or get cut down. We either lead people to Christ or come to a tragic end (see Lk 13:3, 5). Why is Jesus so strict with us? It is because He loves people so much, because people desperately need to hear the message of salvation, and because the Lord has decided to work through us in leading people to Him. Since we have the words which can lead people to eternal life, we have an awesome responsibility to speak up for Jesus. “When much has been given a man, much will be required of him” (Lk 12:48).

Therefore, St. Paul said: “preaching the gospel is not the subject of a boast; I am under compulsion and have no choice. I am ruined if I do not preach” (1 Cor 9:16). “I have made myself all things to all men in order to save at least some of them. In fact, I do all that I do for the sake of the gospel” (1 Cor 9:22-23). “All that matters is that in any and every way, whether from specious motives or genuine ones, Christ is being proclaimed!” (Phil 1:18) “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, Who is coming to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingly power, I charge you to preach the word, to stay with this task whether convenient or inconvenient” (2 Tm 4:1-2). “I put no value on my life if only I can finish my race and complete the service to which I have been assigned by the Lord Jesus, bearing witness to the gospel of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24).

Proclaim the Gospel, witness for Jesus, and bear fruit in His kingdom, or take the risk of being cut down.

Prayer: Father, may I be willing to die to lead people to accept Jesus as Lord.

Promise: "Let us profess the truth in love and grow to the full maturity of Christ the Head." —Eph 4:15

Praise: Pope St. John Paul II promulgated the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary in 2002 to emphasize Jesus' public life and ministry.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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FREE IN PRISON - One Bread, One Body, 10/21/2022

Friday, October 21, 2022,

Ephesians 4:1-6
Psalm 24:1-6
Luke 12:54-59
View Readings

FREE IN PRISON
"I plead with you, then as a prisoner for the Lord." —Ephesians 4:1

How much do you love Jesus? How much suffering would you endure for His sake? Would you be willing to die for Him? Would you be a prisoner for the Lord?

God’s Word tells us to expect persecution (2 Tm 3:12). It’s not uncommon for Christians to be arrested. A good portion of the New Testament was written in prison. Many believers throughout the world are suffering imprisonment at this moment for the sake of the Gospel. The world may look down on prisoners, but Jesus says: I was “in prison and you came to visit Me” (Mt 25:36). It’s an honor to be in an earthly prison for the sake of Jesus’ Gospel.

However, never enter the prison of sin, with its cells of unforgiveness, resentment, and apathy. “When you are going with your opponent to appear before a magistrate, try to settle with him on the way lest he turn you over to the judge, and the judge deliver you up to the jailer, and the jailer throw you into prison” (Lk 12:58). Settle with God; be washed in the blood of Jesus; repent. Never let your spirit become a slave and prisoner of sin (Jn 8:34).

Enemies may imprison your body, but they can never imprison your spirit unless you let them. Be free in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Jesus, if You free us, we are truly free. Free us (Jn 8:36).

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

Praise: Unexpectedly, Patricia found her childhood, child-like faith as a prisoner.

(For a related teaching on The Truth Will Set You Free, view, download or order our booklet 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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 DESIRES OF THE HEART - One Bread, One Body, 10/20/2022

Thursday, October 20, 2022, St. Paul of the Cross

Ephesians 3:14-21
Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 11-12, 18-19
Luke 12:49-53
View Readings

THE DESIRES OF THE HEART
"I have come to light a fire on the earth. How I wish the blaze were ignited!" —Luke 12:49

Jesus wants to light a fire on the earth. He wants to save and purify us by giving us a new nature (see Eph 4:24). He wants to be Lord of our lives, baptize us in the Spirit, and lead us to the Father. These are the desires of Jesus’ heart.

What are the desires of your heart? Do you want what Jesus wants? Even if you have Jesus’ desires and priorities, how much do you want His will to be done and His kingdom to come? Do you feel anguish until all are saved? (Lk 12:50) Is your heart moved with pity at the sight of humanity? (Mt 9:36) Will you do anything to win to Jesus as many as possible? (1 Cor 9:19) Do you have a daily tension, an anxiety for all the churches? (2 Cor 11:28) Is your heart broken for the same reason as was Jesus’ heart? Is your prayer the same as His? Do you want what He wants as much as He wants it?

If you receive the desires of your heart, this will be a curse rather than a blessing unless the desires of your heart are the desires of Jesus’ heart.

Prayer: Jesus, may I love You so much that my desires become like Yours.

Promise: "To Him Whose power now at work in us can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine — to Him be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus." —Eph 3:20-21

Praise: St. Paul of the Cross founded the "Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ." They are commonly known as the Passionists.

(We offer a Married Couples Retreat, Nov. 11-12. Sharing your faith with your spouse is a great blessing to your family. Come away for a while and nourish your faith with other believers. Call 513-373-2397 or e-mail retreats@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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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EVER VERY READY - One Bread, One Body, 10/19/2022

Wednesday, October 19, 2022 , St. Isaac Jogues,
St. John de Brébeuf & Companions

Ephesians 3:2-12
Isaiah 12:2-6
Luke 12:39-48
View Readings

EVER VERY READY
"You know as well as I that if the head of the house knew when the thief was coming he would not let him break into his house. Be on guard, therefore." —Luke 12:39-40

People install locks on their doors and windows. They have fences, guard dogs, and security systems because of the possibility that someone might break into their houses. What if you knew exactly when someone would break into your house? Would you be ready for him? That is how ready we must be for Jesus’ return. Moreover, we must be this ready all the time, for He will come when we “least expect Him” (Lk 12:40).

To be always very ready for Jesus’ return, we must be “faithful, farsighted” servants of Jesus, busy working to dispense rations of “grain in season” (Lk 12:42); that is, feeding people physically and especially spiritually. “Not on bread alone is man to live but on every utterance that comes from the mouth of God” (Mt 4:4). May Jesus find us at His return feeding people with His Word because we always feed people with His Word.

This book, One Bread, One Body, is a “square meal” spiritually. It contains spiritual food. Share what you receive from reading this book, especially from reading the Scriptures quoted or referred to in this book. Dispense the ration of grain. Jesus is coming soon. He may be coming now. Dispense the ration of grain.

Prayer: Father, I love Jesus so I will feed His sheep (Jn 21:17).

Promise: "In Christ and through faith in Him we can speak freely to God, drawing near Him with confidence." —Eph 3:12

Praise: St. Isaac Jogues, St. John de Brébeuf, St. Anthony Daniel, St. Charles Garnier, St. Noel Chabanel, St. Gabriel Lalemant, St. René Goupil, and St. Jean de Lalande were the first officially recognized martyrs of the North American continent. The Church in North America came to birth from the blood of martyrs.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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MESSENGER OF MERCY - One Bread, One Body, 10/18/2022

Tuesday, October 18, 2022, St. Luke

2 Timothy 4:10-17
Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18
Luke 10:1-9
View Readings

MESSENGER OF MERCY
"The Lord stood by my side and gave me strength, so that through me the preaching task might be completed and all the nations might hear the gospel." —2 Timothy 4:17

St. Luke is the human author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Luke’s purpose in writing his two-volume work was so we would know that the Good News of Jesus is “reliable” (Lk 1:4), which in Greek means “rock-solid.”

One of Luke’s major themes is the extreme mercy of God. A number of passages on mercy only appear in Luke and Acts. Only Luke relates the parable of the prodigal son (Lk 15:11ff). Luke wants us to know that the joy of the loving father in showering mercy on his prodigal son reflects how joyfully our heavenly Father will treat us when we repent (Lk 15:10).

Only Luke relates the parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25-37). Jesus tells us to extend mercy to all just as the Samaritan did (Lk 10:37). Luke alone tells of Jesus forgiving the good thief as He hung on the cross (Lk 23:40ff). Only Luke records the parable of the righteous Pharisee and the sinful tax collector (Lk 18:9ff). When the tax collector repented and prayed: “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner” (Lk 18:13), God in His mercy justified him (Lk 18:14). Finally, Luke alone records one of the greatest accounts of God’s indescribable mercy: the conversion of the worst sinner of all (1 Tm 1:15), Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:1ff).

There’s more on mercy in Luke’s writings. Spend some time today immersed in God’s mercy by reading parts of Luke and Acts. “His mercy is from age to age on those who fear Him” (Lk 1:50).

Prayer: Father, may I imitate St. Luke in being a messenger of Your mercy to all I meet.

Promise: "The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth." —Ps 145:18

Praise: St. Luke's writings chronicle the powerful changes that took place in some of the lowliest of people who were transformed into mighty leaders for God.

(For a related teaching on Clarity, Certainty and Commitment, 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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ARE YOU LIVING BELOW YOUR DIGNITY? - One Bread, One Body, 10/17/2022

Monday, October 17, 2022, St. Ignatius of Antioch

Ephesians 2:1-10
Psalm 100:1-5
Luke 12:13-21
View Readings

ARE YOU LIVING BELOW YOUR DIGNITY?
" 'Then I will say to myself: You have blessings in reserve for years to come. Relax! Eat heartily, drink well. Enjoy yourself.' But God said to him, 'You fool!' " —Luke 12:19-20

Although we were created to know, love, and serve God, we naturally tend to live “at the level of the flesh, following every whim and fancy” (Eph 2:3). Human beings tend to live like animals, whose only purpose in life is to fulfill their bodily needs. This way of life is below our human dignity. It is natural to relax, eat heartily, drink well, and enjoy ourselves (see Lk 12:19). To make this the meaning of life, however, is to deny that:

• We are made in the image and likeness of God (Gn 1:26-27).
• God has exalted human dignity by becoming a man (see Jn 1:14).
• God lives in us and we in God (see Jn 17:21).
• We have been bought at the price of Jesus’ blood (see 1 Cor 6:20).
• We are destined to see God face to face and live with Him forever (see 1 Cor 13:12).

Therefore, don’t compromise your human and Christian dignity in order to maximize your pleasure. You are saved, holy, royal, priestly, and precious (see 1 Pt 2:9). Live in the dignity of an adopted child of God, sharing in the divine nature (2 Pt 1:4).  “Christian, recognize your dignity and, now that you share in God’s own nature, do not return to your former base condition by sinning. Remember Who is your Head and of Whose body you are a member” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1691).

Prayer: Father, may I never live below my dignity.

Promise: "God is rich in mercy; because of His great love for us He brought us to life with Christ when we were dead in sin." —Eph 2:4-5

Praise: Born in Syria, St. Ignatius of Antioch converted to Christianity and became Bishop of Antioch. Rather than deny Christ, he bravely faced the lions in the Circus Maximus.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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WORLD WORD-WAR - One Bread, One Body, 10/16/2022

Sunday, October 16, 2022, 29th Sunday Ordinary Time

Exodus 17:8-13
2 Timothy 3:14—4:2
Psalm 121:1-8
View Readings

WORLD WORD-WAR
"As long as Moses kept his hands raised up, Israel had the better of the fight." —Exodus 17:11

We are in a war against demons (Eph 6:12). As the Church, we are attacking the gates of hell which cannot prevail against us (Mt 16:18). By the power of the Holy Spirit, we are claiming Jesus’ victory over Satan and applying it to our lives and our world.

Our sword is the Spirit using God’s Word (Eph 6:17) and helping us to pray in our weakness (Rm 8:26). Therefore, “preach the word, [staying] with this task whether convenient or inconvenient” (2 Tm 4:2). Also, accompany the proclamation of God’s Word by praying as Moses did (Ex 17:11-13). “At every opportunity pray in the Spirit, using prayers and petitions of every sort. Pray constantly and attentively for all in the holy company” (Eph 6:18). Pray with and for the ministry of God’s Word. “Pray for us that the word of the Lord may make progress and be hailed by many others, even as it has been by you” (2 Thes 3:1). Pray “that God may put His word” on our lips that we “may have courage to proclaim it as” we ought (Eph 6:19, 20).

On this World Mission Sunday, fight in the power of the Spirit the world war of words — words of witnessing, preaching, teaching, and praying.

Prayer: Father, I will "fight hard for the faith" (Jude 3).

Promise: "All Scripture is inspired of God and is useful for teaching — for reproof, correction, and training in holiness so that the man of God may be fully competent and equipped for every good work." —2 Tm 3:16-17

Praise: St. Peter first preached about Christ's passion, then told the rest of the story: "But God raised Him from the dead, and we are His witnesses" (Acts 3:15). Praise You, risen Jesus!

(For a related teaching on Daily Prayers, listen to, download or order our CD 62-3 or DVD 62 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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RESPONSIBILITIES AND REVELATIONS - One Bread, One Body, 10/15/2022

Saturday, October 15, 2022, St. Teresa of Jesus

Ephesians 1:15-23
Psalm 8:2-7
Luke 12:8-12
View Readings

RESPONSIBILITIES AND REVELATIONS
"May He enlighten your innermost vision that you may know the great hope to which He has called you, the wealth of His glorious heritage to be distributed among the members of the Church, and the immeasurable scope of His power in us who believe." —Ephesians 1:18-19

Are you full of hope? Are you wealthy? (see 2 Cor 8:9) Do you know you can be “clothed with power from on high”? (Lk 24:49) The key to knowing our hope, wealth, and power is knowing our responsibilities. If we know God has given us responsibilities, we begin seeking God’s revelation concerning what He has provided to meet these responsibilities.

We are responsible to acknowledge Jesus before men (Lk 12:8). We are even responsible to make disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19). This is not only the responsibility of the whole Church but also of each of us as members of Christ’s Body. We all are missionaries. We will be held accountable for this on Judgment Day. Furthermore, we must win over to Jesus as many people as possible, even if we have to become the slaves of all (1 Cor 9:19). It is an unspeakable tragedy to lose even one sheep (see Mt 18:14). We are under compulsion to share our faith to the maximum. We are ruined if we don’t (see 1 Cor 9:16).

With these responsibilities in mind, we can know our hope, wealth, and power and have our innermost vision enlightened. We can get in touch with reality and not be shocked on Judgment Day. When we know what we must do, we are then in a position to find out who we are in Christ (Mt 10:39).

Prayer: Father, may I know You and myself. Through the intercession of St. Teresa of Jesus, I ask to be a missionary.

Promise: "The Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment all that should be said." —Lk 12:12

Praise: St. Teresa's father kept a collection of spiritual books in their home. He was unaware his pious daughter would one day write some of Catholicism's spiritual masterpieces.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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 DOWN PAYMENT - One Bread, One Body, 10/14/2022

Friday, October 14, 2022, Pope St. Callistus I

Ephesians 1:11-14
Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 12-13
Luke 12:1-7
View Readings

THE DOWN PAYMENT
"You too were chosen; when you heard the glad tidings of salvation, the word of truth, and believed in it, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit Who had been promised. He is the Pledge of our inheritance, the first Payment against the full redemption of a people God has made His own, to praise His glory." —Ephesians 1:13-14

St. Paul had a strange title for the Holy Spirit. He called the Spirit “the Down Payment.” The Lord has promised us new life, freedom, joy, peace, love, power, authority, healing, victory, communion with Him, forgiveness of sins, resurrection from death, and eternal life. He has promised us even much more, but these are just a few highlights.

How do we know these promises are true? Primarily we know this because Jesus said so, and His Word is true. He also lets us personally experience some of what He’s promised. He does this through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is our Down Payment (see Eph 1:14). For example, because the Spirit healed me or healed through me, I’m sure that nothing can separate me from the love of Christ (Rm 8:35). Because the Spirit has given me the gift to praise the Lord in another language, I know the Bible is true. Because the Spirit gave me peace in the midst of the storm, “I have confident assurance I’m going to heaven” (see Heb 11:1).

The Spirit is a Down Payment that confirms us. Even in a confused, doubting, secular society, we’re confirmed that the Lord will fulfill all His promises because the work of the Holy Spirit is “the first Payment” (Eph 1:14).

Prayer: Father, renew my Confirmation (see 2 Tm 1:6-7).

Promise: "Fear nothing, then. You are worth more than a flock of sparrows." —Lk 12:7

Praise: Pope St. Callistus served his predecessor, Pope Zephyrinus, as a deacon. He was elected the next Pope and faithfully fulfilled his papal duties until he was martyred.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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LOSING YOUR HEAD? - One Bread, One Body, 10/13/2022

Thursday, October 13, 2022,

Ephesians 1:1-10
Psalm 98:1-6
Luke 11:47-54
View Readings

LOSING YOUR HEAD?
"God has given us the wisdom to understand fully the mystery, the plan He was pleased to decree in Christ, to be carried out in the fullness of time: namely, to bring all things in the heavens and on earth into one under Christ's headship." —Ephesians 1:9-10

In the letters to the Ephesians and Colossians, Christ is called the Head of the Body, the Church (Eph 1:22; 4:15; Col 1:18; 2:19). This shows us how literally it is to be taken that without Jesus, we can do nothing (Jn 15:5). For example, without the brain in your head giving commands to your eyes, you could not read this sentence. Without your brain, you could not understand what you’re reading, what day it is, or what your name is. When we see a person who has suffered a brain injury, we see the significance of the analogy of Christ being our Head. We need to be connected to Jesus even more than the parts of our body need to be connected to our brain. Otherwise, we are paralyzed. Accordingly, the purpose of life is to give spiritual “therapy” to the world by bringing “all things in the heavens and on earth into one under Christ’s headship” (Eph 1:10).

Therefore, don’t lose your Head. Repent! Be totally and intimately committed and connected to Jesus, our Head.

Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit so that I will live in Jesus, and through Him live in You and in the Spirit.

Promise: "Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done wondrous deeds; His right hand has won victory for Him, His holy arm." —Ps 98:1

Praise: Having left the Church in her youth, Dolores returned decades later, and is now intimately connected to Jesus, her Savior.

(For a related teaching on Accepting Jesus as Lord, Savior, and God, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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FLESHING IT OUT - One Bread, One Body, 10/12/2022

Wednesday, October 12, 2022,

Galatians 5:18-25
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Luke 11:42-46
View Readings

FLESHING IT OUT
"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified their flesh with its passions and desires." —Galatians 5:24

By “the flesh,” the Bible refers to our fallen human nature. “The tendency of the flesh is toward death” (Rm 8:6). “The flesh in its tendency is at enmity with God; it is not subject to God’s law. Indeed, it cannot be; those who are in the flesh cannot please God” (Rm 8:7-8). A few of the works of the flesh are: “lewd conduct, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, hostilities, bickering, jealousy, outbursts of rage, selfish rivalries, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like” (Gal 5:19-21). The flesh can be used to enslave us (see Rm 7:14) and will try to start a civil war against our own souls (1 Pt 2:11). Therefore, it is unrealistic and foolish to make provisions for the desires of the flesh (see Rm 13:14; 8:12). The flesh must not only be controlled, but crucified (Gal 5:24). Otherwise, we will stifle the Spirit (see Gal 5:17), become slaves, and destroy ourselves.

We crucify “the flesh with its passions and desires” by living in the Spirit and following the Spirit’s lead (Gal 5:24-25). The Spirit lusts “against the flesh; the two are directly opposed” (Gal 5:17). “If you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the evil deeds of the body, you will live” (Rm 8:13). The Holy Spirit wants to get all our attention, time, and energy. Then there’s nothing left for the flesh, which then dies of neglect and starvation. Even when the flesh tries to assert itself, its desires are ignored because of our immersion into, that is, baptism in the Spirit. May we live in the Spirit and with the Spirit in us. May we be so Spirit-filled that there is no room for the flesh.

Prayer: Father, may I love You so much that I will crucify my flesh and be crucified to the world (Gal 6:14).

Promise: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness, generosity, faith, mildness, and chastity." —Gal 5:22-23

Praise: Ellen returned to regular Confession after an absence of more than ten years.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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IS MR. CLEAN MR. MEAN? - One Bread, One Body, 10/11/2022

Tuesday, October 11, 2022, Pope St. John XXIII

Galatians 5:1-6
Psalm 119:41, 43-45, 47-48
Luke 11:37-41
View Readings

IS MR. CLEAN MR. MEAN?
"You Pharisees! You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but within you are filled with rapaciousness and evil." —Luke 11:39

Would you eat off of a dirty dish? Would you eat food that had fallen on the floor? Would you eat in a restaurant where you know the cook is careless about washing his hands? Most of us are understandably concerned about at least minimal standards of cleanliness.

Jesus warned that we should be much more concerned about interior cleanliness. The same person who is squeamish about eating off a dirty dish may be unconcerned about being “filled with rapaciousness and evil” (Lk 11:39). A person who would never drink unfiltered water may be on the “inside full of filth and dead men’s bones” (Mt 23:27). A person who would feel uncomfortable if he didn’t brush his teeth daily may be on “the inside filled with loot and lust” (Mt 23:25). People who would be embarrassed to have dirty faces or to smell bad sometimes ignore the “hypocrisy and evil” within them (Mt 23:28).

Do you care that inside you there may be a garbage dump “stinking to high heaven”? If you don’t, ask Jesus to allow you to be able to see and smell the true condition of your soul. If you do, go to Confession and pray: “A clean heart create for me, O God” (Ps 51:12).

Prayer: Father, don't just "clean up my act" but cleanse my heart.

Promise: Faith "expresses itself through love." —Gal 5:6

Praise: Pope St. John XXIII enlarged the College of Cardinals and made it more international. He oversaw the Second Vatican Council and said he preferred "the medicine of mercy rather than severity."

(For a related teaching on Living in Reality, view, download or order our booklet 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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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HEARING TEST - One Bread, One Body, 10/10/2022

Monday, October 10, 2022,

Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31—5:1
Psalm 113:1-7
Luke 11:29-32
View Readings

HEARING TEST
"At the judgment, the citizens of Nineveh will rise along with the present generation, and they will condemn it. For at the preaching of Jonah they reformed, but you have a greater than Jonah here." —Luke 11:32

When Jonah spoke, 120,000 wicked Ninevites listened and repented (Jon 3:10; 4:11). When Solomon spoke, the queen of the south “came from the farthest corner of the world to listen” (Lk 11:31). When Jesus speaks through the Church, in the Mass, through the Bible, and in our families, do we listen? How many of us are devoting ourselves to the apostles’ instructions, that is, the teachings of the Church? (see Acts 2:42) Are we reading the Catechism of the Catholic Church? Do we bother to find out what the Pope is teaching? Do we receive Jesus and His Word at Mass as much as possible? Do we use One Bread, One Body to help us sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His words at daily Mass? (see Lk 10:39) Because we take the Bible “not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God” (1 Thes 2:13), do we make time to read the Bible daily? Are we open to the Lord speaking to us through our family and the people we see each day? Is there any subject that we will not allow even God to mention to us?

Ask the Lord for the grace to listen to Him in your most difficult circumstance. Repent and feel your spiritual ears open. Deny yourself and hear Jesus’ words: “Blest are your ears because they hear. I assure you, many a prophet and many a saint longed to...hear what you hear but did not hear it” (Mt 13:16-17). “Let him who has ears heed the Spirit’s word” (Rv 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22).

Prayer: Father, may I hear that You are Lord alone, and may I love You with all my heart (Dt 6:4-5).

Promise: "It was for liberty that Christ freed us. So stand firm, and do not take on yourselves the yoke of slavery a second time!" —Gal 5:1

Praise: When Jonathan truly heard the Word of God speak to him, he became a new man in Christ.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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THANKSGIVING IS THANKS-LIVING - One Bread, One Body, 10/09/2022

Sunday, October 9, 2022, 28th Sunday Ordinary Time

2 Kings 5:14-17
2 Timothy 2:8-13
Psalm 98:1-4
View Readings

THANKSGIVING IS THANKS-LIVING
"Was there no one to return and give thanks to God?" —Luke 17:18

Naaman in the first reading and the ten lepers in today’s Gospel reading had a lot to be thankful for (2 Kgs 5:14; Lk 17:14). They had been healed from the worst disease of the ancient world, leprosy. We, however, have a debt of gratitude much greater than that of all the lepers combined. We have not only received healing; we have received Jesus, the Source of all healing (see 1 Pt 2:24). God became a man and died on the cross for love of each one of us. We have been loved to the most extreme degree and have the most extreme reason to give thanks.

Imagine a car going out of control and about to run over you. Imagine someone throwing her body as a human shield between you and the oncoming car. You are saved, but the person who threw her body in front of you is severely injured. She is now quadriplegic — having no movement of her hands, arms, and legs. How could you thank her for saving your life? What if you went into her hospital room, said thanks, and gave her a $20 bill? Wouldn’t that be so inadequate? Wouldn’t your $20 bill be more ingratitude than gratitude?

What if you came before the bloodied, tortured, crucified Jesus and gave Him thanks, a few moments of prayer, and a few good deeds? Wouldn’t that be so inadequate? Give your whole life to Jesus. Offer your body to Jesus “as a living sacrifice” (Rm 12:1). Anything less than everything is incomplete. Give thanks appropriate to His crucified love.

Prayer: Jesus, in thanksgiving I give You my life and my all.

Promise: "You can depend on this: If we have died with Him we shall also live with Him; if we hold out to the end we shall also reign with Him." —2 Tm 2:11-12

Praise: Jesus, my risen Lord and my God, praise be to You for Your mercy and salvation.



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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 time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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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COMPLETE CONNECTIONS - One Bread, One Body, 10/08/2022

Saturday, October 8, 2022,

Galatians 3:22-29
Psalm 105:2-7
Luke 11:27-28
View Readings

COMPLETE CONNECTIONS
"A woman from the crowd called out, 'Blest is the womb that bore You and the breasts that nursed You!' 'Rather,' He replied, 'blest are they who hear the word of God and keep it.' " —Luke 11:27-28

A woman called Jesus’ mother blest because Mary’s womb bore Jesus and her breasts nursed Him. Jesus corrected the woman by saying that Mary was blest because she heard the Word of God and kept it (Lk 11:27-28).

We likewise are blest not because of our connections with Jesus but because of our commitment to Him. We may be connected to Jesus through prayer, church involvement, religious practices, service to the poor, moral behavior, etc. We may even be associated with Jesus by prophesying, driving out demons, or working miracles (Mt 7:22). However, on Judgment Day, Jesus will gather those who are merely churchgoers, humanitarians, decent citizens, and even prophets, exorcists, and miracle-workers. He will call some of them “evildoers” and tell them to get out of His sight (Mt 7:23).

The Lord is calling us not to be merely connected with Him but totally committed to Him. Jesus died on the cross to save us, and He wants nothing less than everything we are and have. He is totally committed to us and calls us to be totally committed to Him.

Prayer: Jesus, I repent of giving 99% to You. I give up that one thing, habit, or sin that separates me from total commitment to You.

Promise: "All of you who have been baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Him." —Gal 3:27

Praise: Evelyn, a non-Catholic, worked for a Catholic parish for years. Influenced by the faith of her co-workers, she chose to convert to the Catholic Faith.

(For a related teaching on Clarity, Certainty and Commitment, view, download or order 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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022"

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

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..