WELCOME - One Bread, One Body, 04/01/2023

Saturday, April 1, 2023,

Ezekiel 37:21-28
Jeremiah 31:10-13
John 11:45-56

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WELCOME
"What do you think? Is He likely to come for the feast?"—John 11:56

If Jesus came in His physical, glorified body to your church for Easter, would He be accepted? What if He decided to cleanse the sanctuary? Would the ushers apprehend Him? (Jn 7:44-46) What if Jesus said He didn’t believe in our American lifestyle and its influence on the lifestyles of the members of our parish? Would we be open to the truth?

There is “a plan afoot to kill” Christ (Jn 11:53). Does your parish want Jesus interfering with Church business? Is your parish more interested in their sanctuary than in the salvation of the nations? “ ‘What are we to do,’ they said, ‘with this Man performing all sorts of signs? If we let Him go on like this, the whole world will believe in Him. Then the Romans will come in and sweep away our sanctuary and our nation’ ” (Jn 11:47-48).

Many churches tone things down and limit God’s power so they don’t lose many lukewarm members, while they refuse to let the Holy Spirit be an active Member of their church. “In consequence, Jesus no longer moved about freely in” those “circles. He withdrew instead to a town called Ephraim in the region near the desert, where He stayed with His disciples” (Jn 11:54). Jesus seems to be more welcome in underground church homes in Communist countries, in “home-based communities” in the Third World, in small, unnoticed prayer groups, in small congregations, etc.

“What do you think? Is He likely to come for the feast?” (Jn 11:56)

Prayer: Jesus, may nothing stand between You and me.

Promise: "I will take the Israelites from among the nations...to bring them back to their land." —Ez 37:21

Praise: Jim, an atheist, met the living God when he was desperately ill. He recovered, accepted Jesus' saving grace, and witnessed to the Lord throughout the world.



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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 April 1, 2023 through May 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio September 21,, 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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ON THE THRESHOLD OF GOD’S GLORY - One Bread, One Body, 03/31/2023

Friday, March 31, 2023,

Jeremiah 20:10-13
Psalm 18:2-7
John 10:31-42

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ON THE THRESHOLD OF GOD'S GLORY
"The Lord is with me, like a mighty Champion: my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph." —Jeremiah 20:11

We are on the threshold of what may prove to be two of the most important weeks of our time on earth. In Holy Week, the Triduum, Easter, and its Octave, we will see Jesus do the works of His Father and come “to realize what it means that the Father is in” Jesus and Jesus in Him (Jn 10:38). In the next two weeks, many will come to believe in Jesus (Jn 10:42).

However, the amazing graces of Holy Week, the Triduum, and the Easter season are not uncontested. Like Jeremiah, we may be denounced and have to face “terror on every side” (Jer 20:10). With Jesus, we may feel as if we are being stoned — not with rocks but with insulting words, multiple problems, and mounting stress (see Jn 10:31).

Don’t let yourself be manipulated into missing out on the sorrows and joys of the next two weeks. “Fix your eyes on Jesus” (Heb 3:1). Clear your schedule as much as possible. Give God prime time in personal, family, and communal prayer. Be reconciled with God and with those who have hurt you. Go to Confession. Try to go to Mass each day, and read the daily Scriptures before and after each Mass. Make these next two weeks a life-changing retreat and a world-changing celebration. “Now is the acceptable time! Now is the day of salvation!” (2 Cor 6:2)

Prayer: Father, in the next two weeks do more than I can ever ask for or imagine (Eph 3:20).

Promise: "Sing to the Lord, praise the Lord, for He has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked!" —Jer 20:13

Praise: Pete's New Year's resolution was to go to Confession at least monthly and Mass daily—and by the grace of God he has kept it.

(For a related teaching on The Secret of Confession, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order our CD 44-3 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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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GOD OR SOMETHING? - One Bread, One Body, 03/30/2023

Thursday, March 30, 2023,

Genesis 17:3-9
Psalm 105:4-9
John 8:51-59

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GOD OR SOMETHING?
"Jesus answered them: 'I solemnly declare it: before Abraham came to be, I AM.' " —John 8:58

Jesus is blunt. He does not beat around the bush. He is far from diplomatic. He called people “liars” (see Jn 8:55). Then He openly and clearly called Himself “God” by using the title “I AM,” the name God had given to identify Himself (Ex 3:14).

It’s not surprising that people tried to stone Him and eventually succeeded in crucifying Him. Jesus ruffled a lot of feathers, overturned the money-changers’ tables in cleansing the Temple, and unabashedly called the Pharisees “blind guides,” “fools,” “frauds,” and “whitewashed tombs” (Mt 23:13-36). Jesus was asking for trouble.

Jesus acts like He’s God. If He were only a man, He would be unreasonable, arrogant, and insensitive. However, He’s not only a man; He’s God, and therefore His conduct is justified. His behavior is abnormal for a mere man but normal for God. We will resent Jesus’ message and manner unless we acknowledge Him as God. Like people of Jesus’ times, we will be in constant conflict with Him until we bow before Him as the great I AM.

Because of the way Jesus acts, He can’t be merely a good man. He’s either a bad man or a good God. His demeanor can be reasonably interpreted in no other way. We must either adore Him or hate Him (see Rv 3:15-16).

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

Promise: "No longer shall you be called Abram; your name shall be Abraham, for I am making you the father of a host of nations." —Gn 17:5

Praise: Helen asked her friends to pray a novena for the discernment of her vocation.

(For a related teaching on Accepting Jesus as Lord, Savior and God, 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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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FATHERED FREE - One Bread, One Body, 03/29/2023

Wednesday, March 29, 2023,

Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95
Daniel 3:52-56
John 8:31-42

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FATHERED FREE
" 'We are descendants of Abraham,' was their answer. 'Never have we been slaves to anyone. What do You mean by saying, "You will be free" ?' " —John 8:33

Lent is an imitation of Jesus in His fasting forty days in the desert and overcoming the temptations from Satan. Satan tempted Jesus to doubt that He was the beloved Son of God the Father (see Mt 3:17; 4:3, 6). If Satan can cause us to doubt our Father’s love for us, then he can manipulate us through bribery or intimidation. If we doubt our Father’s love, then Satan can seduce us to sin and take away our freedom, for “everyone who lives in sin is the slave of sin” (Jn 8:34).

When Jesus proclaimed to the Jews that He would free them, they connected freedom with fatherhood. They said they were already free because Abraham and God were their fathers (Jn 8:39, 41). Jesus agreed with the Jews that freedom was based on being begotten of a free father. (We are fathered into freedom.) However, Jesus denied that the Jews had practically accepted Abraham as their father. We should act like our fathers, and they didn’t act like Abraham (Jn 8:39-40). Jesus also denied that the Jews had practically accepted God as their Father; if they had, the Jews would have loved Jesus as the Father loved Him (Jn 8:42).

Freedom is a matter of fatherhood — not only of factual fatherhood, but practical fatherhood.

Prayer: Father, set me free from my addictions as I trust in You.

Promise: "If the Son frees you, you will really be free." —Jn 8:36

Praise: David fasts twice a week in penance and in petition for abortionists.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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FOOD POISON? - One Bread, One Body, 03/28/2023

Tuesday, March 28, 2023,

Numbers 21:4-9
Psalm 102:2-3, 16-21
John 8:21-30

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FOOD POISON?
"The people complained against God and Moses...In punishment the Lord sent among the people saraph serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died." —Numbers 21:5-6

Hundreds and thousands of Israelites were repeatedly destroyed because of their sins (see 1 Cor 10:8-10; Nm 25:1-9; 14:37). Their basic sin was idolatry, and a significant part of this sin was their craving for the food of slavery. They wanted meat, fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, garlic (Nm 11:4-5), grain, figs, grapes, and pomegranates (Nm 20:5). The Israelites were disgusted with the “wretched” food God gave them (Nm 21:5). They complained about the manna God miraculously gave them each day for free.

Is an inordinate desire for food contributing to the sin of idolatry in your life? Ezekiel prophesied: “They shall not be allowed to satisfy their craving or fill their bellies, for this has been the occasion of their sin” (Ez 7:19). Paul spoke of people who “will end in disaster! Their god is their belly and their glory is in their shame” (Phil 3:19). He was talking about “enemies of the cross” (Phil 3:18), “those who are set upon the things of this world” (Phil 3:19). Paul warned us to avoid the company of those who cause dissension and scandal through deception and flattery (Rm 16:17-18). “Such men serve, not Christ our Lord, but their own bellies” (Rm 16:18). “My little children, be on your guard against idols” (1 Jn 5:21), including the idol of food.

Prayer: Father, as I fast this Lent, make me aware of temptations to gluttony and idolatry.

Promise: "You belong to what is below; I belong to what is above. You belong to this world — a world which cannot hold Me. That is why I said you would die in your sins. You will surely die in your sins unless you come to believe that I AM." —Jn 8:23-24

Praise: Phil confessed his addiction to unhealthy "comfort food" and began fasting for other addicts.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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 HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CULTURE OF DEATH - One Bread, One Body, 03/27/2023

Monday, March 27, 2023,

Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62
Psalm 23:1-6
John 8:1-11

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THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CULTURE OF DEATH
"The Lord heard her prayer. As she was being led to execution, God stirred up the holy spirit of a young boy named Daniel, and he cried aloud." —Daniel 13:44-46

Susanna was “a very beautiful and God-fearing woman” (Dn 13:2). “Her pious parents had trained their daughter according to the law of Moses” (Dn 13:3). Susanna was happily married to Joakim, a very rich man who was the most respected of all the Jews in Babylon (Dn 13:4). Susanna was blessed with children in her marriage (Dn 13:30). She was a very holy, beautiful woman, a beloved daughter, faithful wife, and devoted mother.

Then two wicked judges tried to force her to commit adultery with them by threatening to falsely accuse her of adultery and condemn her to death, if she did not give in to them. Susanna, however, chose to remain pure, faithful, and holy, even though she would lose her life, good reputation, marriage, and family (Dn 13:23). This was not the first evil act these judges had committed. They had subverted justice by “passing unjust sentences, condemning the innocent, and freeing the guilty” (Dn 13:53). They had also sexually abused several other women (Dn 13:57).

The Lord saved Susanna’s life and reputation. He saved Susanna’s husband, parents, and children from being disgraced and traumatized. He stopped the judges’ subversion of justice and sexual abuse, which had gone on for years. The Lord transformed a perverted society by stirring up “the holy spirit of a young boy named Daniel” (Dn 13:45).

We also need the Holy Spirit to be stirred up in us (see 2 Tm 1:6-7) and transform our culture of death into a civilization of life and love. Come, Holy Spirit, this Lent, Easter, and Pentecost!

Prayer: Holy Spirit, cry out in my heart "Abba" ("Father") (Gal 4:6).

Promise: "Nor do I condemn you. You may go. But from now on, avoid this sin." —Jn 8:11

Praise: Jesus healed Bernice from depression.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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 LAST WORD IN FAITH - One Bread, One Body, 03/26/2023

Sunday, March 26, 2023, Fifth Sunday of Lent

Ezekiel 37:12-14
Romans 8:8-11
Psalm 130:1-8
John 11:1-45
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THE LAST WORD IN FAITH
"Do you believe?" —John 11:26

In two weeks, everyone in the world who goes to Mass on Easter will be challenged to reject Satan, all his works, and all his empty promises. We reject Satan because we believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit guides us to all truth (Jn 16:13), including faith in “the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting.” The last word in the great renewal of the baptismal promises is “the resurrection of the body and life everlasting.”

In two weeks, Jesus is going to say to us as He said to St. Martha: “I am the Resurrection and the Life” (Jn 11:25). He will ask us: “Do you believe this?” (Jn 11:26) By God’s grace, we will be able to answer: “Yes, Lord...I have come to believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God” (Jn 11:27). If we believe Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God, we believe He is the Resurrection and the Life, Who will open our graves (Ez 37:12), raise our bodies from the dead, and give us life everlasting.

Fix your eyes on the risen Son (see Heb 12:2). See Jesus dying on the cross, and rising from the dead. Jesus, Who raised Lazarus from the dead, will give us the faith to believe in Him, renew our baptismal promises, and thereby rise from the dead to life everlasting.

Prayer: Father, whatever it takes, increase my faith greatly in the next two weeks.

Promise: "If the Spirit of Him Who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, then He Who raised Christ from the dead will bring your mortal bodies to life also, through His Spirit dwelling in you." —Rm 8:11

Praise: "I wish to know Christ and the power flowing from His resurrection; likewise to know how to share in His sufferings by being formed into the pattern of His death" (Phil 3:10).



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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SHOCKED BACK TO LIFE - One Bread, One Body, 03/25/2023

Saturday, March 25, 2023, Annunciation

Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10
Hebrews 10:4-10
Psalm 40:7-11
Luke 1:26-38
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SHOCKED BACK TO LIFE
"The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you." —Luke 1:35

Why would the all-holy God become a man? (see 2 Cor 5:21; cf Jn 1:14) To Muslims and Jews, it seems blasphemous to suggest that the Supreme Being became a tiny embryo implanted in the wall of Mary’s uterus. Why would the Creator be “born in the likeness of men”? (Phil 2:7) “How can this be?” (Lk 1:34)

Jesus’ Incarnation should blow our minds. This will result either in confusion or in fear of the Lord. If we accept the Spirit’s gift of fear of the Lord, we will begin to have wisdom (Prv 9:10). We will realize that God is so holy He is beyond our concepts of holiness. We will wisely see that we are so fallen that only the incarnate, crucified, and risen God can save us from our sins against the all-holy One. If we begin to understand that the Incarnation is a mystery, we will be wise enough to worship, obey, and serve Jesus with abandon. We will receive the incarnate Jesus in Holy Communion as often as possible. We will tell the world about Him. We will never be the same. We will be shocked out of selfishness and into reality.

Prayer: Father, "let it be done to me as You say" (Lk 1:38).

Promise: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with Child, and bear a Son, and shall name Him Immanuel." —Is 7:14

Praise: "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us, and we have seen His glory" (Jn 1:14).



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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“SET FREE IN THE OPEN” (see Ps 18:20) - One Bread, One Body, 03/24/2023

Friday, March 24, 2023,

Wisdom 2:1, 12-22
Psalm 34:17-21, 23
John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

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"SET FREE IN THE OPEN" (see Ps 18:20)
"At this they tried to seize Him, but no one laid a finger on Him because His hour had not yet come." —John 7:30

Jesus repeatedly took His place publicly amid ferocious opposition and boldly proclaimed the Word of God. “This led some of the people of Jerusalem to remark: ‘Is this not the One they want to kill? Here He is speaking in public and they don’t say a word to Him!’ ” (Jn 7:25-26)

The keys to Jesus’ fearlessness are:

1)      His relationship with His Father. Because Jesus knew that the Father loved Him (see Jn 5:20), He had total confidence that His Father would protect Him fully, until His “hour” of suffering arrived (see Jn 7:30; 12:27).

2)      His knowledge of being sent by the Father to proclaim God’s Word. Jesus knew that He was supported by the full authority of God the Father (see Mt 28:18; Jn 5:36; 7:16). Because Jesus sought glory for His Father and not for Himself (Jn 7:18), His heart burned with zeal and did not cower out of self-preservation.

3)      His love. “Love has no room for fear; rather, perfect love casts out all fear” (1 Jn 4:18).

Jesus said to His apostles, and now says to us: “As the Father has sent Me, so I send You” (Jn 20:21). Let’s confidently take our places in God’s kingdom. God will give us strength even in the sight of our foes (Ps 23:5). “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rm 8:31) Like the psalmist, we can say: “They attacked me in the day of my calamity, but the Lord came to my support. He set me free in the open, and rescued me, because He loves me” (Ps 18:19-20).

Prayer: Father, I know fear is useless. Increase my trust in You (Mk 5:36) and take away all my fear.

Promise: "Many are the troubles of the just man, but out of them all the Lord delivers him." —Ps 34:20

Praise: For years, Dan resented his stern, unloving father. Jesus softened both their hearts and now they have a close relationship.

(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 time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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“SENT”-SITIVITY TRAINING - One Bread, One Body, 03/23/2023

Thursday, March 23, 2023, St. Toribio de Mogrovejo

Exodus 32:7-14
Psalm 106:19-23
John 5:31-47

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"SENT"-SITIVITY TRAINING
"The Father has sent Me." —John 5:36

Jesus was keenly aware of being sent by His Father to minister to the world. In John’s Gospel, Jesus refers to Himself as being sent by the Father no less than thirty-eight times! He repeatedly emphasizes that we must believe that the Father sent Him (see Jn 17:21). The Father and Jesus continually testify that Jesus was sent by the Father (Jn 5:36). Jesus even tells His disciples the Father loves them because they believed He was sent by God (Jn 16:27).

We disciples imitate Jesus. To be like Jesus, we must always be aware that we are sent by the Father. It’s critical for us to see ourselves as being sent. Instead of identifying ourselves as a mailman, foreman, librarian, or housewife, we should imitate Jesus and the apostles by identifying ourselves as being sent by the Lord (see Jn 10:36; 2 Tm 1:1; Ti 1:1).

Jesus told His apostles: “As the Father has sent Me, so I send you” (Jn 20:21). At the conclusion of each Mass (a word which means “sent”), we are sent forth to “go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.” Thus, we are sent forth by the Lord from Mass to minister to the world (Jn 17:18). Jesus tells us: “Remember: I am sending you” (Lk 10:3). “Go out now and take your place” (Acts 5:20).

Prayer: Father, I hear Your voice saying, "Whom shall I send? Who will go?" (Is 6:8) "Here I am...send me!" (Is 6:8)

Promise: "These very works which I perform testify on My behalf that the Father has sent Me." —Jn 5:36

Praise: St. Toribio was a law professor in Spain. He was later ordained a bishop and assigned to Lima, Peru. It is believed he confirmed both St. Rose of Lima and St. Martin de Porres.

(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 time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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ON THE THRESHOLD OF... - One Bread, One Body, 03/22/2023

Wednesday, March 22, 2023,

Isaiah 49:8-15
Psalm 145:8-9, 13-14, 17-18
John 5:17-30

View Readings

ON THE THRESHOLD OF...
"In a time of favor I answer you, on the day of salvation I help you." —Isaiah 49:8

We have been fasting for four weeks to prepare for Easter. What will the Lord do this Easter?

1)      Some who feel forsaken and forgotten will be assured of the Lord’s tender love (see Is 49:14-15). At first, this will not change the distressing circumstances of their lives, but will dramatically change their attitude toward them.

2)      Long-term desolation will be replaced by restoration (Is 49:8).

3)      Many people trapped in the prison and darkness of sin will come out and show themselves (Is 49:9).

4)      Through a series of miracles, many of you will return from a self-imposed exile in the world into life in God’s kingdom (see Is 49:9-12).

5)      The heavens, earth, and mountains will sing because of the comfort and mercy the Lord will give us (Is 49:13).

6)      At least hundreds of thousands of people will pass from death to life by hearing the Lord’s Word and believing in Him (Jn 5:24).

The risen Lord will do several million other things this upcoming Easter season. We are on the threshold of an awesome outpouring of the Lord’s love and grace. Prepare to share in Easter 2023. Repent, confess, forgive, give, pray, fast, witness, heal, obey, believe, and love. Come, risen Lord Jesus!

Prayer: Father, may this be the Lent of a lifetime and the springtime of my life in the Spirit.

Promise: "An hour is coming in which all those in their tombs shall hear His voice and come forth." —Jn 5:28

Praise: Brenda goes to Confession weekly. She desires to be all that Jesus desires.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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HEALED FOR HELL? - One Bread, One Body, 03/21/2023

Tuesday, March 21, 2023,

Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12
Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9
John 5:1-16

View Readings

HEALED FOR HELL?
"Remember, now, you have been cured. Give up your sins so that something worse may not overtake you." —John 5:14

Fr. Al Lauer, founder and long-time author of One Bread, One Body, preached often on healing. One of his frequent exhortations during healing services was: “God heals you for service in His Kingdom. He didn’t heal you so you could be the healthiest person in hell!”

Father Al often referred to St. Peter’s mother-in-law as the model of one who received healing. She was suffering from a fever (Mk 1:30). Jesus healed her, and immediately she got up and began to wait on Jesus and the apostles (Mk 1:31). That’s the goal: to be healed from our physical and spiritual infirmities, and to be healed for service (Eph 2:10), evangelization (Rm 1:5), worship, and a life of holiness (Eph 1:4).

A man had been infirm for thirty-eight years. Jesus healed him and then exhorted him to give up his sins so that nothing “worse” would happen to him (Jn 5:14). There is something worse than thirty-eight years of being bedridden: a life of sin and an eternity in hell.

Jesus’ healing is both spiritual and physical. He doesn’t heal halfway. Therefore, “give up your sins” (Jn 5:14). Let Jesus touch you with His healing love for a life of service in His kingdom.

Prayer: Jesus, use me to lead thousands of people to receive Your healing and to spend their lives in Your service.

Promise: "God is our Refuge and our Strength, an ever-present help in distress. Therefore we fear not." —Ps 46:2-3

Praise: Because of her faith in the risen Jesus, Margaret was able to grow in holiness after the unexpected death of her husband.

(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 time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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NO FEAR - One Bread, One Body, 03/20/2023

Monday, March 20, 2023, St. Joseph

2 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16
Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22
Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29
Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24

or Luke 2:41-51
View Readings

NO FEAR
"Joseph, son of David, have no fear." —Matthew 1:20

Shortly before Jesus was crucified, He prayed: “O Father most holy, protect them with Your name” (Jn 17:11). “Guard them from the evil one” (Jn 17:15). We need to be on guard, for our “opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Pt 5:8). We are in such danger that the Lord has assigned guardian angels to us (Ps 91:11), and the Holy Spirit has assigned pastors to guard us as members of the Church (Acts 20:28).

Possibly the greatest guardian of all is St. Joseph. He received the ultimate guarding assignment — to guard Jesus and His mother, Mary. He will also guard us, if we let him.

We certainly need all the guards we can get, considering the diabolical threats on our lives, dangers to our health, temptations against our faith, opposition to our ministry, slander against our character, deceptions against the truth, and the chaos in society. We live in very dangerous times. We need more guards than ever, and we need Joseph more than ever.

Thank the Lord for giving Joseph to you as your guardian. Ask him to guard you and father you. Then live for Jesus zealously, boldly, confidently, and safely. St. Joseph, pray for us.

Prayer: Father, may I be safe though a thousand fall at my left side and ten thousand at my right side (Ps 91:7).

Promise: "Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before Me; your throne shall stand firm forever." —2 Sm 7:16

Praise: "The father of a just man will exult with glee; he who begets a wise son will have joy in him" (Prv 23:24). St. Joseph, pray for all fathers.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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BLIND SIDE - One Bread, One Body, 03/19/2023

Sunday, March 19, 2023, Fourth Sunday of Lent

1 Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13
Ephesians 5:8-14
Psalm 23:1-6
John 9:1-41
View Readings

BLIND SIDE
"As He walked along, He saw a man who had been blind from birth." —John 9:1

The world is divided into two groups: those who know they’re spiritually blind and ask for and receive sight from Jesus, and others who refuse to admit they’re blind and are even blind to being blind (Is 29:9). Jesus said: “I came into this world to divide it, to make the sightless see and the seeing blind” (Jn 9:39). Many take offense at being called blind. “Some of the Pharisees around Him picked this up, saying, ‘You are not calling us blind, are You?’ To which Jesus replied: ‘If you were blind there would be no sin in that. “But we see,” you say, and your sin remains’ ” (Jn 9:40-41).

We were born spiritually blind. We inherited this from our first parents Adam and Eve. Our sight was restored when we were reborn in the waters of Baptism. Nevertheless, we continue to have eye problems because of our sins, which originally caused our spiritual blindness (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 588, 1791). We keep bumping into things, crashing into brick walls, and having terrible accidents. What does it take to wake us up to reality?

We must confess our sins, and Jesus will again restore our spiritual vision. “Awake, O sleeper, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light” (Eph 5:14). “So the man went off and washed, and came back able to see” (Jn 9:7).

Prayer: "The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures He gives me repose; beside restful waters He leads me; He refreshes my soul" (Ps 23:1-3).

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

Praise: "Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and grants life, so the Son grants life to those to whom He wishes" (Jn 5:21). Praise Jesus, crucified and risen!

(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 time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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PRAYING TO GOD OR SELF? - One Bread, One Body, 03/18/2023

Saturday, March 18, 2023, St. Cyril of Jerusalem

Hosea 6:1-6
Psalm 51:3-4, 18-21
Luke 18:9-14

View Readings

PRAYING TO GOD OR SELF?
"Believe Me, this man went home from the temple justified but the other did not. For everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled while he who humbles himself shall be exalted." —Luke 18:14

The Pharisee in today’s Gospel reading was not humble but self-centered. When he prayed, he “prayed to himself” (see Lk 18:11, RSV-CE) and talked more about himself than about God. Also, the Pharisee focused his prayer on himself by favorably comparing himself with a tax collector praying in the back of the Temple (Lk 18:11).

The Pharisee was destroying himself by his self-addiction. He was one of those “who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others” (Lk 18:9, RSV-CE). When we rely on ourselves, we will be unforgiving towards others, for “to err is human, to forgive is divine.” Only those relying on God’s power can forgive. Those relying on their own power cannot forgive.

When we don’t forgive, we ourselves are not forgiven, for the Lord told us to pray to be forgiven as we forgive those who sin against us (Mt 6:12). When we don’t receive God’s forgiveness, we don’t see Him as our loving Abba. Under these circumstances, we naturally tend to pray to ourselves rather than to God. Of course, this kind of prayer is meaningless at best. We may as well just stop praying — which many people have done. Our only hope of escaping from this damning dilemma is to repent of relying on ourselves and to give our lives totally to Christ (see Rm 7:24-25).

Prayer: Father, I give my heart to You so I can pray to You.

Promise: "A heart contrite and humbled, O God, You will not spurn."—Ps 51:19

Praise: St. Cyril of Jerusalem defended the divinity of Christ despite much personal suffering.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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ONLY ESCAPING OR ALSO LOVING? - One Bread, One Body, 03/17/2023

Friday, March 17, 2023, St. Patrick

Hosea 14:2-10
Psalm 81:6-11, 14, 17
Mark 12:28-34

View Readings

ONLY ESCAPING OR ALSO LOVING?
"Return to the Lord." —Hosea 14:3

Like the prodigal son, we may have run away from home (Lk 15:13), done our own thing, and collapsed through our guilt (Hos 14:2). We are sick of seeing pigs live a better life than we do (see Lk 15:16-17). Finally, we decide to get out of sin and ask the Lord’s forgiveness.

The Lord rejoices to see us, for He wants to heal our defection and turn His wrath away from us (Hos 14:5). The only problem is that the Lord wants to love us freely (Hos 14:5). He wants to love us more than we want to be loved. We are afraid of grasping fully “the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ’s love” (Eph 3:18). If we do, we will become aware of our responsibility to love the Lord with all our hearts, all our souls, all our minds, and all our strength (Mk 12:30). To love like that, we would have to deny our very selves (see Lk 9:23). We would have to repent, not only because selfishness and sin are dead ends, but because God is Love (1 Jn 4:16), Who has loved us perfectly, constantly, and infinitely.

Does your repentance consist primarily of leaving the bad and self-destructive, or are you repenting to return to your Lord and Love? Are you trying merely to stay out of hell, or do you want to see Jesus face to face in heaven?

Prayer: Father, I want to love You more than to feel good or to go to heaven.

Promise: "Israel I would feed with the best of wheat, and with honey from the rock I would fill them." —Ps 81:17

Praise: St. Patrick miraculously escaped his slavemasters, but even more wondrously returned to free them from their slavery to sin.

(For a related teaching on Divine Love, listen to, download or order 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 time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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“O COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL” - One Bread, One Body, 03/16/2023

Thursday, March 16, 2023,

Jeremiah 7:23-28
Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9
Luke 11:14-23

View Readings

"O COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL"
"Faithfulness has disappeared; the word itself is banished from their speech." —Jeremiah 7:28

Our heavenly Father is the Faithful One. Jesus Christ is “the faithful Witness” (Rv 1:5), “the Faithful and True” (Rv 19:11). The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, that is, of faithfulness (see Jn 16:13). The triune God is perfectly faithful (see 1 Thes 5:24). Even “if we are unfaithful He will still remain faithful, for He cannot deny Himself” (2 Tm 2:13).  It is God’s nature to be faithful.

God calls us to be holy, to be like Him. That means that we must be faithful. Have you been faithful to your baptismal promises? This is the fundamental responsibility to which we must be faithful. Have you been faithful to your vocations as married, lay single, clergy, religious, parent, child, worker in the world, or church worker? Have you been faithful to the Church, including to the Pope, bishops, pastors, and brothers and sisters in Christ? Have you been faithful in keeping your word and your promises to those people the Lord has given you to love?

If you have been faithful, give God the glory, for it is only by His grace that you have been faithful. If you have not been faithful, repent, go to Confession, receive God’s mercy, and become faithful. On Judgment Day, the Lord wants to say to each of us: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Mt 25:21, 23, RSV-CE).

Prayer: Father, this Lent make me faithful in life, till death.

Promise: "He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters." —Lk 11:23

Praise: Fr. Joseph, a Ugandan priest serving as a missionary to the Sudan, has baptized 15,000 Sudanese people into the Catholic Church in the last six years.

(For a related teaching on Hold Fast to the Faith, listen to, download or order our CD 71-1 or DVD 71 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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GREAT SHAKES - One Bread, One Body, 03/15/2023

Wednesday, March 15, 2023,

Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9
Psalm 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20
Matthew 5:17-19

View Readings

GREAT SHAKES
"What great nation has statutes and decrees that are as just as this whole law which I am setting before you today?" —Deuteronomy 4:8

“God is Love” (1 Jn 4:16). Accordingly, He wants to give people the best, the greatest. Therefore, He raises up great people to do great things. God calls us to greatness because He is Love.

We will be great and our nation will be great if we:

1)      observe God’s law carefully (Dt 4:6-8; Mt 5:19),

2)      teach God’s commands (Mt 5:19), and

3)      love and serve God’s people (Mt 20:26).

This obeying, teaching, and serving is so demanding that, like Jesus, we give our lives for others (Mt 20:28). Greatness means not self-realization but self-dying. Greatness is not being like Pontius Pilate, Herod, the Pharisees, or Jesus’ executioners, but being like Jesus on the cross. The road to greatness is the way of the cross.

Do you want to be great by Jesus’ standards? Even if you don’t, will you be great anyway for love of God and His people? Choose greatness. Choose obedience, teaching, serving, dying, and loving. Be great for Love (1 Jn 4:8).

Prayer: Father, may I please You by aspiring to greatness by serving others (see Mt 20:26).

Promise: "He sends forth His command to the earth; swiftly runs His word! He spreads snow like wool; frost He strews like ashes." —Ps 147:15-16

Praise: Little Eileen looked forward to her First Communion more than to her birthday.

(For a related teaching on Obedience School, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order Obeying God on 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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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FASTING + FORGIVENESS = ? - One Bread, One Body, 03/14/2023

Tuesday, March 14, 2023,

Daniel 3:25, 34-43
Psalm 25:4-9
Matthew 18:21-35

View Readings

FASTING + FORGIVENESS = ?
"My heavenly Father will treat you in exactly the same way unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart." —Matthew 18:35

After Jesus fasted forty days, He came out of the desert “in the power of the Spirit” (Lk 4:14). After our Lenten fast, we too are to be moving in the power of the Spirit, in a new Pentecost.

However, the flesh (our fallen nature with its selfish desires) will oppose the Spirit (Gal 5:17). Unforgiveness is the cause of many works of the flesh, such as “hostilities, bickering, jealousy, outbursts of rage, selfish rivalries, dissensions, factions, envy” (Gal 5:20-21). Therefore, unforgiveness is one of the main ways we stifle (see 1 Thes 5:19) and grieve (Eph 4:30) the Holy Spirit. Consequently, if Lent is going to lead to Pentecost, we must accept God’s grace to forgive 70 x 7 times (Mt 18:22). We must forgive from our hearts; otherwise, our Lenten fast will not result in freedom (see Is 58:6) but in torture (Mt 18:34). Fasting without forgiveness is not crucifying the flesh (see Gal 5:24) but merely indulging the flesh in a more subtle way.

When you fast, forgive. When you forgive, pray for the Spirit. You will receive a new Pentecost.

Prayer: Father, by Your grace I decide to forgive everyone for everything. Thank You for the miracle of forgiveness.

Promise: "Let our sacrifice be in Your presence today as we follow You unreservedly; for those who trust in You cannot be put to shame. And now we follow You with our whole heart, we fear You and we pray to You." —Dn 3:40-41

Praise: Mary Jane could not forgive her ex-husband until she added fasting to her prayers for him.

(For a related teaching on Fourteen Questions on Forgiveness, 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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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LIGHT FOR THE SLIGHTED - One Bread, One Body, 03/13/2023

Monday, March 13, 2023,

2 Kings 5:1-15
Psalm 42:2-3; 43:3-4
Luke 4:24-30

View Readings

LIGHT FOR THE SLIGHTED
"At these words the whole audience in the synagogue was filled with indignation." —Luke 4:28

When the Lord does something for someone but not for you, do you compare yourself with the other person and feel slighted by God? Jesus told His hometown folk that, although many Jewish widows needed financial help during a three-and-a-half year famine brought on by the prophet Elijah, none of the Jewish widows were helped. Instead, a foreign widow received Elijah’s aid (Lk 4:25-26). Moreover, Israel had many lepers in Elisha’s day, but none of them was healed. God, however, healed the foreigner, Naaman (Lk 4:27).

Jesus unfavorably compared His people with foreigners, not to make them feel inferior or slighted, but to call them to repentance. They refused His call and tried to throw Him over a cliff (Lk 4:29-30). When we feel slighted, we are going to try to throw over a cliff either Jesus or our selfish, prideful sinfulness. Let’s be like Naaman and throw away our pride, repent, and humbly obey the Lord (see 2 Kgs 5:11ff).

Thank God when others are being blessed in ways that you’re not, or being healed when you’re not. Thank God that others are getting much more of God’s attention. This is a call for you to repent (see Mk 6:12).

Prayer: Father, remove pride from my heart, no matter if You seem to have slighted me.

Promise: "His flesh became again like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean." —2 Kgs 5:14

Praise: Tom has risen early each morning for nearly fifty years to study the Scriptures (Acts 17:11).



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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 SCRUTINIES - One Bread, One Body, 03/12/2023

Sunday, March 12, 2023, Third Sunday of Lent

Exodus 17:3-7
Romans 5:1-2, 5-8
Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9
John 4:5-42
View Readings

THE SCRUTINIES
"Come and see Someone Who told me everything I ever did!" —John 4:29

The catechumens, those preparing to be baptized and enter the Church, will receive today and on the next two Sundays the ancient prayers called “the scrutinies.” In these prayers, we ask the Lord to scrutinize and purify the hearts of the catechumens. As we accompany the catechumens in making the baptismal promises on Easter Sunday, so we should accompany them in the scrutinies.

Today we pray for Jesus to scrutinize our hearts and do in us what He did for the Samaritan woman. Jesus penetrated five husbands’ worth of sin, self-hatred, and self-deception (see Jn 4:18). The woman felt as if Jesus had told her everything she had ever done (Jn 4:29). It was as if her whole life had flashed before her during her conversation with Jesus. The Lord is willing to scrutinize and purify us in a similar way.

After Jesus has removed years of garbage from our hearts, the love of God will be “poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us” (Rm 5:5). After emptying our hearts of sin and its effects, the Lord fills our hearts with love.

Then, we will speak out of the abundance of our hearts (Lk 6:45). Like the Samaritan woman, we will be witnesses for Jesus, and many people from our towns will believe in Jesus on the strength of our words of testimony (Jn 4:39). Thus, the scrutinies result in love and a new evangelization.

Prayer: Father, "my journeys and my rest You scrutinize" (Ps 139:3). May I never be the same after Your scrutinies.

Promise: "It is precisely in this that God proves His love for us: that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." —Rm 5:8

Praise: Praise Jesus Christ, "Light of the World" (Jn 8:12).



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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GULP! - One Bread, One Body, 03/11/2023

Saturday, March 11, 2023,

Micah 7:14-15, 18-20
Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12
Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

View Readings

GULP!
"...after swallowing up your property..." —Luke 15:30, JB

No matter how much any human being has harmed us, no matter how much someone has swallowed up our property, desires, plans, money, hopes, or dreams, no human being has harmed us as much as we have hurt the heavenly Father by our sins. We have “swallowed up” the gifts, talents, and treasure God has bestowed on us. Yes, we may have made a return to the Lord for all He has given to us (Ps 116:12). But even if we have laid down our life for the Lord, we have still squandered His gifts and “swallowed up His property” in some way.

The Pharisees had supposedly dedicated their lives to the Lord. Yet Jesus charged them with straining out the “gnats” of God’s holy precepts and swallowing the “camel” of their man-made traditions (see Mt 23:24). In the same way, we are sinners and have done harm to our Father, swallowing up much that He has given us without bearing the expected fruit. Yet God is merciful and gracious (Ps 103:8). He delights “in clemency” (Mi 7:18). He rejoices greatly when we repent and ask His forgiveness (Lk 15:7, 10, 32).

So, let us repent of swallowing up God’s property. We may have stuffed ourselves by swallowing the goods of this world, indulging our own lusts, meanwhile starving our souls (Prv 13:19). Let us rather swallow up what God puts into our mouth: the Holy Eucharist (Jn 6:51ff) and the scroll of the Word of God (Ez 3:3; Rv 10:9).

Prayer: Father, may I swallow up Your Word and Eucharist daily. Use me for Your Kingdom, and use me up.

Promise: "Who is there like You, the God Who removes guilt and pardons sin?" —Mi 7:18

Praise: Two women prayed together in Eucharistic adoration for Esther to quit smoking. Unbeknownst to them, at that very hour, Esther decided to throw away her cigarettes and never smoked again.

(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 time period from February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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..

BAD PARENTING - One Bread, One Body, 03/10/2023

Friday, March 10, 2023,

Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13, 17-28
Psalm 105:16-21
Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46

View Readings

BAD PARENTING
"Israel loved Joseph best of all his sons." —Genesis 37:3

Israel, also known as Jacob, deserved the “Good Housekeeping” seal of disapproval. He was a terrible parent. He favored his son, Joseph, and made him a special robe without giving his other children anything comparable (Gn 37:3). Jacob let the communication break down in his family to the point that Joseph’s brothers “hated him so much that they would not even greet him” (Gn 37:4). Jacob was so out of touch with his family’s feelings that he unknowingly sent Joseph into a situation in which he was almost murdered by his brothers (Gn 37:13ff). Even if you’ve made mistakes as a parent, you probably haven’t been worse than Jacob.

The great news is that the Lord had mercy on Jacob and his family. After Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, the Lord orchestrated the events of the next thirty-nine years to restore Jacob’s family. After Jacob’s death, his family was reconciled. Likewise, the Lord is “making history” to restore your family — no matter how bad its condition.  If you give your life and family to Him, they shall call you,“ ‘Restorer of ruined homesteads’...
‘Repairer of the breach’ ” (Is 58:12).

During this Lent, fast and pray for your family. Confess your sins. By faith, thank the Lord for what He is doing in your family. This Easter season, celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection and His resurrection of your family.

Prayer: Father, may bad parents repent and form holy families.

Promise: "The Stone which the builders rejected has become the Keystone of the structure. It was the Lord Who did this and we find it marvelous to behold." —Mt 21:42; Ps 118:22-23

Praise: Runaway Carol was reconciled with the rest of her family by Easter.

(For a related teaching on Healing the Family Tree, 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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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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HARD HEART, BURN - One Bread, One Body, 03/09/2023

Thursday, March 9, 2023, St. Frances of Rome

Jeremiah 17:5-10
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Luke 16:19-31

View Readings

HARD HEART, BURN
"If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not be convinced even if one should rise from the dead." —Luke 16:31

The human heart is so twisted and deceitful (Jer 17:9) that many of us, even in a world of instant communication, do not notice hundreds of millions of starving people at our doorsteps (see Lk 16:20). We have made our hearts so hardened that, even if someone were raised from the dead to warn us, we would not repent (Lk 16:31). If we ever change, it will be through God’s Word — from Moses’ Pentateuch to the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament (see Lk 16:31).

Jesus dramatically practiced what He preached in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. In the afternoon of the day on which He rose from the dead, He knew that His Resurrection would be only the beginning of opening humanity’s hardened heart. So, the risen Jesus spent the first Resurrection afternoon and evening interpreting “every passage of Scripture which referred to Him” (Lk 24:27) and opening His disciples’ “minds to the understanding of the Scriptures” (Lk 24:45).

At each Mass, the risen Christ continues to proclaim the Scriptures. Daily Mass is our best opportunity to let God change our hearts. Then we will love the poor and love the Lord. Expose your heart daily to God’s Word proclaimed by the risen, Eucharistic Lord.

Prayer: Father, may my heart burn and melt when I hear Your Word (see Lk 24:32).

Promise: "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is the Lord. He is like a tree planted beside the waters that stretches out its roots to the stream: It fears not the heat when it comes, its leaves stay green; In the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit." —Jer 17:7-8

Praise: St. Frances of Rome was an exemplary wife who entered religious life after her husband's death.



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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 February 1, 2023 through March 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 15, 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..