THE WORD FOR LENT - One Bread, One Body, 02/29/2024

Thursday, February 29, 2024,

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

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THE WORD FOR LENT
"Happy the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, but delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on His law day and night." —Psalm 1:1-2

When Jesus fasted for forty days in the desert, He overcame the temptations of Satan by quoting the Scriptures (see Lk 4:4, 8, 12).

Jesus told the Pharisees that listening to Moses and the prophets, that is, the Scriptures, has more power to change our hearts than meeting someone raised from the dead (Lk 16:31).

On the day Jesus rose from the dead, He spent the afternoon and evening interpreting the Scriptures (Lk 24:27, 45).

After the first Christian Pentecost, the new-born Church devoted itself to the apostles’ instruction, which was based on the Scriptures (Acts 2:42).

Therefore, St. Jerome, the patron of Catholic Bible studies, insisted: “Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ.” The Church officially accepted this assertion in Vatican II. It is re-stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (133). “The Church has always venerated the Scriptures as she venerates the Lord’s Body” (Catechism, 103). “The Church ‘forcefully and specifically exhorts all the Christian faithful...to learn “the surpassing knowledge of Jesus Christ,” by frequent reading of the divine Scriptures’ ” (Catechism, 133).

Abide in God’s Word (Jn 8:31; 15:7). May it be the “joy and the happiness” of your heart (Jer 15:16).

Prayer: Father, I put Your Word on the lampstand of my life so as to give light to all in the house (Lk 8:16).

Promise: "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose Hope is the Lord." —Jer 17:7

Praise: Charlie has faithfully taught the Bible for over 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 February 1, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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CROSS WALK - One Bread, One Body, 02/28/2024

Wednesday, February 28, 2024,

Jeremiah 18:18-20
Psalm 31:5-6, 14-16
Matthew 20:17-28

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CROSS WALK
"The Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and scribes, who will condemn Him to death." —Matthew 20:18

Jesus was telling His apostles about His imminent torture and death. He told them: “They will turn [Me] over to the Gentiles, to be made sport of and flogged and crucified” (Mt 20:19). After this heart-rending conversation about tragic suffering and death, Sts. James, John and their mother approached Jesus and asked for a promotion to the right and left hand of Jesus (Mt 20:21). They refused to relate to the message of the cross.

On another occasion, when Jesus first mentioned the cross, St. Peter said it would never happen. Jesus had to tell Peter, “Get out of my sight, you satan!” (Mk 8:33) The cross has been and still is a stumbling block to the worldly. They question how the Messiah can set people free if He was beaten and executed as a criminal. Pleasure-seekers think the cross “an absurdity” (1 Cor 1:23). The cross makes no sense to those with the attitude: “If it feels good, do it.”

Believers and unbelievers have one thing in common: they all don’t understand the cross. However, “to us who are experiencing salvation it is the power of God” (1 Cor 1:18).

Prayer: "Jesus, keep me near the cross." May I know nothing except what shines in the light of the cross (1 Cor 2:2, RNAB).

Promise: "Remember that I stood before You to speak in their behalf, to turn away Your wrath from them." —Jer 18:20

Praise: Maria forgave her father for hitting her when she was a teenager.

(Our annual Women's Retreat, Evangelizing and Discipling the Family and Beyond, will be offered March 15-16 at our Retreat Center in Adams Co., Ohio. Plan to attend and be enriched by a retreat for women, given by women. Call 937-587-5464, 513-373-2397 or email 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 February 1, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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PRIDE KILLS - One Bread, One Body, 02/27/2024

Tuesday, February 27, 2024, St. Gregory of Narek

Isaiah 1:10, 16-20
Psalm 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23
Matthew 23:1-12

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PRIDE KILLS
"Whoever humbles himself shall be exalted." —Matthew 23:12

The religious leaders at the time of Jesus’ public ministry were blind fools and hypocrites. They were oppressive to the people in that they bound up “heavy loads, hard to carry, to lay on other men’s shoulders” (Mt 23:4). The cause of this blind, foolish, oppressive hypocrisy was pride. This pride manifested itself by the type and manner of works these leaders performed (Mt 23:5), by their seating arrangements at banquets and in synagogues (Mt 23:6), by their clothes (Mt 23:5), and by their titles (Mt 23:7-10).

Do you show signs of pride by the way you talk, work, dress, buy, think, or even pray? Have you avoided signs of pride but deep down you know that you are proud of not looking proud or even of appearing humble? Pride is so deceitful and self-deceptive.

Humble yourself now by repenting, forgiving, and confessing your sins. Humble yourself by apologizing, simplifying, fasting, serving, and suffering. Humble yourself by taking up your daily crosses (see Phil 2:8; cf Lk 9:23). Otherwise, you will lose your spiritual sight and be a fool and a phony, who will crush the spirits of others, break their hearts, and dash their hopes. Pride is a brutal killer of innocent people. Look what the pride of some religious leaders did to Jesus. They tortured, crucified, and murdered God. Repent of pride and humble yourself.

Prayer: Father, by Your grace I decide to humble myself before I hurt more innocent victims.

Promise: "Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow; though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool." —Is 1:18

Praise: St. Gregory, an Armenian monk, was declared a Doctor of the Church in 2015.

(For a related teaching on Pride and Faith, listen to, download or order our CD 64-1 or DVD 64 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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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TOO BUSY TO JUDGE? - One Bread, One Body, 02/26/2024

Monday, February 26, 2024,

Daniel 9:4-10
Psalm 79:8-9, 11, 13
Luke 6:36-38

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TOO BUSY TO JUDGE?
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Pardon, and you shall be pardoned. Give, and it shall be given to you." —Luke 6:37-38

The Lord commands us not to judge or condemn others. However, we should recognize sins and follow the directions of the Lord so sinners might have the chance to be free of sin and its harmful consequences (Mt 18:15-17). Then we should leave the judging and sentencing up to God.

We are called to warn, intercede for, teach, prophesy to, and serve sinners. Jesus invites us to remove the specks from others’ eyes — to call them to repent after we let others help us to repent (Lk 6:42). We are ministers of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:18). If we minister well, the Lord won’t have much condemning to do; then He will judge us and other sinners ready for eternal happiness with Him.

Not judging or condemning does not mean being passive, doing nothing, or being permissive. Rather, we must bring back those straying from the Truth (Jas 5:19-20).

Prayer: Jesus, give me the grace to oppose sin and love sinners.

Promise: "Lord, great and awesome God, You...keep Your merciful covenant toward those who love You and observe Your commandments!" —Dn 9:4

Praise: After having an abortion, Sarah felt heavily laden with guilt. Confessing her sin, she received God's forgiveness and healing.



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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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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“SHALL I GIVE MY FIRST-BORN?” (see Mi 6:7) - One Bread, One Body, 02/25/2024

Sunday, February 25, 2024, Second Sunday of Lent

Genesis 22:1-2, 9-13, 15-18
Romans 8:31-34
Psalm 116:10, 15-19
Mark 9:2-10
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"SHALL I GIVE MY FIRST-BORN?" (see Mi 6:7)
"Take your son, Isaac, your only one, whom you love…" —Genesis 22:2

God the Father asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, the one whom he loved (Gn 22:2). God the Father did Himself what He asked Abraham to do. For the Father, Jesus was His “Isaac,” His only Son, His well-beloved (Mk 9:7). Nonetheless, the Father did sacrifice Jesus, “His Beloved” (Mt 17:5).

God spared Abraham and Isaac, yet He “did not spare His own Son but handed Him over for the sake of us all” (Rm 8:32). Scripture says that God “laid upon [Jesus] the guilt of us all” (Is 53:6). Just as Abraham had laid the wood upon Isaac’s shoulders (Gn 22:6), God the Father allowed the wood of the cross and the sins of the world to be laid upon His Son’s shoulders.

Therefore, realize to the depths of your soul that God is for you. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rm 8:31) God the Father so loves you that He sent His only Son, that by believing in Jesus, you might have eternal life with Him in heaven (Jn 3:16). What God asks of you is to surrender your all to Him (Lk 10:27). Yet God first gave His all to you, His very heart, His Son Whom He loved (Mk 9:7).

Therefore, love the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind (Lk 10:27). Give your life generously to Him Who has given so generously to you.

Prayer: Father, You have never held anything back from me. Show me what I am holding back from You. I beg for the grace to give everything to You.

Promise: "My vows to the Lord I will pay in the presence of all His people." —Ps 116:18

Praise: Praise and honor to You, Lord Jesus! You take us to the desert to speak to our hearts (Hos 2:16). We offer You our lives as a sacrifice of praise (Ps 50:23).

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

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from February 1, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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HOW TO BECOME OUR OWN WORST ENEMIES - One Bread, One Body, 02/24/2024

Saturday, February 24, 2024,

Deuteronomy 26:16-19
Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8
Matthew 5:43-48

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HOW TO BECOME OUR OWN WORST ENEMIES
"My command to you is: love your enemies, pray for your persecutors. This will prove that you are sons of your heavenly Father." —Matthew 5:44-45

The Lord commands us to “observe His statutes, commandments and decrees, and to hearken to His voice” (Dt 26:17). If we obey Him, He will raise us “high in praise and renown and glory” and we “will be a people sacred to the Lord” (Dt 26:19). But if we do not obey the Lord, we do not love Him (Jn 15:10; 1 Jn 5:3), and if we do not love Him, we are doomed. Therefore, we must obey the Lord, even if we have to suffer and die to do it.

One of the Lord’s commands is: “Love your enemies” (Mt 5:44). Obviously, this command is humanly impossible to obey. Only God Who is Love (see 1 Jn 4:16) can love anyone, especially enemies. Consequently, we must ask God to give us His divine power to love our enemies. We must accept this grace because unless we love our enemies, we are not obeying God and therefore not loving Him.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the grace of forgiving and loving enemies.

Promise: "In a word, you must be made perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect." —Mt 5:48

Praise: For many years, Cheryl has volunteered her musical ability to teach new seminarians how to sing and chant the liturgical praises of God.

(For a related teaching on Love, listen to, download or order our CD 58-1 or DVD 58 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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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MINISTERS OF RECONCILIATION (2 Cor 5:18) - One Bread, One Body, 02/23/2024

Friday, February 23, 2024, St. Polycarp

Ezekiel 18:21-28
Psalm 130:1-8
Matthew 5:20-26

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MINISTERS OF RECONCILIATION (2 Cor 5:18)
"If you bring your gift to the altar and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift at the altar, go first to be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift." —Matthew 5:23-24

Does anyone have anything against you, even if you don’t have anything against them? Immediately, go and be reconciled with this person. “Lose no time” (Mt 5:25). Because you are a follower of Christ, you are a minister of reconciliation. You put out your hand first. You apologize first. You visit or call to break the silence of the “cold war.” You may have already done this and been rejected, but in imitation of Jesus, you try to reach out again and again (see Mt 18:21-22).

Jesus prays we would be one as He and the Father are one (Jn 17:21). This means we must constantly be forgiving one another and accepting the grace to be “of one heart and one mind” (Acts 4:32). We may even put up with injustice, and allow ourselves to be cheated (1 Cor 6:6-7). We will deny ourselves so that our actions are not an occasion of sin to others (1 Cor 8:9-13). We will accept one another as Christ accepted us, “for the glory of God” (Rm 15:7).

“May God, the Source of all patience and encouragement, enable you to live in perfect harmony with one another according to the Spirit of Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and voice you may glorify God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rm 15:5-6).

Prayer: Father, may we "make every effort to preserve the unity which has the Spirit as its origin and peace as its binding force" (Eph 4:3).

Promise: "If the wicked man turns away from all the sins he committed, if he keeps all my statutes and does what is right and just, he shall surely live, he shall not die." —Ez 18:21

Praise: St. Polycarp was a bishop in the early church and was martyred for his faith. He died in 156 AD.



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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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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, UNITY, AND THE POPE - One Bread, One Body, 02/22/2024

Thursday, February 22, 2024, Chair of St. Peter

1 Peter 5:1-4
Psalm 23:1-6
Matthew 16:13-19

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THE HOLY SPIRIT, UNITY, AND THE POPE
"Jesus replied, 'Blest are you, Simon son of Jonah! No mere man has revealed this to you, but My heavenly Father.' " —Matthew 16:17

The Lord wants to return and take us with Him to heaven in perfect, eternal love (see 1 Thes 4:16-17). First, however, He wants all to believe in Him and be saved (see 1 Tm 2:4). The world will believe in Jesus when Jesus’ disciples are one (Jn 17:21). We become one through the Holy Spirit (see 1 Cor 12:13). The Holy Spirit works through the bishops, the successors of the apostles, to make us one. The Holy Spirit works through the Pope, the successor of St. Peter, to make sure the bishops are united with each other and can thereby serve the unity of the Church.

History confirms that the Holy Spirit gives us unity through the bishops and the Pope. Those Christian groups that have tried to do without the bishops and the Pope have splintered into thousands of factions. Without the chair of Peter, that is, the authority of the Pope, they inevitably lack the unity in the Spirit necessary for the Church to complete its work of world evangelization and preparation for Christ’s final coming. It is more clear today than ever that on the rock of Peter, Jesus has chosen to build His Church (Mt 16:18). Live and love accordingly.

Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit to lead me to die to myself and be united with You and Your Church.

Promise: "I will entrust to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you declare bound on earth shall be bound in heaven; whatever you declare loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven." —Mt 16:19

Praise: "The Holy Spirit descended upon all who were listening to Peter's message" (Acts 10:44).

(This Lent, to help share God's Word, consider listening to, downloading or ordering our Bible Teachers Series on our website. Our eight CD series starts with CD 5A-1 or our four DVD series starts with DVD 5A.)

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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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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 IT THE ELEVENTH HOUR? - One Bread, One Body, 02/21/2024

Wednesday, February 21, 2024, St. Peter Damian

Jonah 3:1-10
Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19
Luke 11:29-32

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IS IT THE ELEVENTH HOUR?
"Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed." —Jonah 3:4

To create our culture of death, many people have sinned repeatedly and grievously for many years. The culture of death will eventually self-destruct. But how long will it be? Are there only forty days more before the end? (see Jon 3:4) Are we on our last year? (Lk 13:8-9) Some believe that it’s too late to avert mass destruction. When people thought this in the past, the prophet Joel proclaimed that “even now” God’s people could repent with prayer and fasting (Jl 2:12). In Joel’s time, it was almost too late, but there were still a few moments left to repent. We are still in the season of mercy, but the season of judgment is coming soon (and possibly very soon). “The Judge stands at the gate” (Jas 5:9).

We don’t know how much time we have left to repent. Consequently, the only wise thing to do is to repent now. “Now is the acceptable time! Now is the day of salvation!” (2 Cor 6:2) Go to Confession at the nearest opportunity. Fast and pray in the Holy Spirit to prepare for life-changing Lenten Confessions. Go to Confession as if this were your last Confession. Live this Lenten day as if it were your last Lent and your last day.

Prayer: Father, may I repent more deeply today than I ever have before.

Promise: "For at the preaching of Jonah they reformed, but you have a greater than Jonah here." —Lk 11:32

Praise: St. Peter Damian rose from the life of a fervent monk to the abbot of his order. He encouraged a strict rule of life for the monks. He was later made a cardinal and finally, he was named a Doctor of the Church.



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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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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BABBLING PRAYER - One Bread, One Body, 02/20/2024

Tuesday, February 20, 2024,

Isaiah 55:10-11
Psalm 34:4-7, 16-19
Matthew 6:7-15

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BABBLING PRAYER
"In your prayers do not babble as the pagans do." —Matthew 6:7, JB

In today’s Gospel, it’s not the babbling that Jesus is emphasizing, but babbling like the pagans (Mt 6:7). As a father, it was a delight to hear my infants happily babble. Likewise, our Father in heaven loves to hear His children babbling — if it is babbling in faith, hope, and love. Jesus reveals to us that the heavenly Father does not want His children to babble as the pagans do — who “think they will win a hearing by the sheer multiplication of words” (Mt 6:7).

As a father, I loved to hear my children communicate with me. The heavenly Father loves His children infinitely more than any human parent loves their children. Even though our heavenly Father knows all we need before we ask Him (Mt 6:8), He still wants us to ask, as Jesus makes clear (Mt 7:7).

What the Father does not want is human babbling which leads to pride. The earliest humans were so filled with pride that their very city was “called Babel” (Gn 11:9). In long vocal prayers or repetitive prayers like the Rosary, it’s important that we pray like a loving child to our Father, rather than reciting “long prayers for appearance’ sake” (Mk 12:40).

Many love to sit beside a babbling brook. Spouses love to hear their beloved repeat the endearing words, “I love you.” These are soothing, joyful sounds. The priest’s prayers at Mass are repeated day after day, yet they express perfectly the love of Jesus’ sacrifice. This is the kind of babbling that the Father loves. Bring joy to the Father by your loving babble.

Prayer: Father, Abba, may my prayers be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.

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

Praise: Miranda offers up her fasting for those struggling with addiction.

(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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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 SHAKES - One Bread, One Body, 02/19/2024

Monday, February 19, 2024,

Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18
Psalm 19:8-10, 15
Matthew 25:31-46

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THE SHAKES
"Then He will separate them into two groups, as a shepherd separates sheep from goats." —Matthew 25:32

Will you have “the shakes” on Judgment Day? Will you have butterflies in your stomach? Will you have sweaty palms? Will you feel nervous? Jesus will come, riding on the clouds in great glory — the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rv 19:16). He will come escorted by all the angels, perhaps numbering in the billions (Mt 25:31). All the nations will assemble before Him (Mt 25:32). You will be microscopic on this cosmic Judgment Day.

We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Rm 3:23). Very few of us have served the least of the brethren (Mt 25:40). Many of us have never visited a prisoner or given more than a token offering to the starving. Even the sick we’ve visited have been relatives and friends and not the least of the brethren.  “The sum of [our] deeds is less than complete in” God’s sight (Rv 3:2). Yet “we should have confidence on the day of judgment” (1 Jn 4:17).When we meet Jesus as Judge, we must already have met Him as Savior.

 

Prayer: Jesus, Judge, may my personal relationship with You give me confidence to cooperate with Your grace and grow in holiness.

Promise: "Nor shall you stand by idly when your neighbor's life is at stake. I am the Lord." —Lv 19:16

Praise: The Warren family reads the Scriptures together every day.

(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 February 1, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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LENT ON TRIAL - One Bread, One Body, 02/18/2024

Sunday, February 18, 2024, First Sunday of Lent

Genesis 9:8-15
1 Peter 3:18-22
Psalm 25:4-9
Mark 1:12-15
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LENT ON TRIAL
"He stayed in the wasteland forty days, put to the test there by Satan." —Mark 1:13

Lent is a time of special testing. The Lord lets us be tested by Satan so that we will grow in holiness. Then we will have a strong faith by which we can renew our baptismal promises this Easter time and receive the glory of the risen Christ. “There is cause for rejoicing here. You may for a time have to suffer the distress of many trials; but this is so that your faith, which is more precious than the passing splendor of fire-tried gold, may by its genuineness lead to praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ appears” (1 Pt 1:6-7).

We often have “many trials” throughout our lives. However, there’s something unique about Lenten trials. There may be more trials in Lent than at other times, or the combination of trials may be more challenging. Possibly the timing of our Lenten trials may seem exceptionally bad or even mysterious.

If we pray more than ever through these trials and fast as Jesus did in the desert, trials will bring out the best in us. If we repent and do penance, trials will not warp, twist, poison, confuse, or weaken us. Rather, God will use these trials to greatly strengthen our trust in His providential, faithful, and perfect love for us. However, if we endure trials without praying, fasting, and repenting, we can become lifelong slaves because of the fear of death (Heb 2:15); or bitter, unforgiving, resentful shad

ows of our former selves. If we mix sin and trials, we will become slaves of compulsions, self-deception, and self-hatred.

Thank the Lord for trials. Be holy and become holier.

Prayer: Father, no matter what it takes, make me holy.

Promise: "The reason why Christ died for sins once for all, the just Man for the sake of the unjust, was that He might lead you to God." —1 Pt 3:18

Praise: Praise the Lord, for His loving kindness will never fail. Alleluia.



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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from February 1, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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 SEED OF FASTING - One Bread, One Body, 02/17/2024

Saturday, February 17, 2024, Seven Founders of the Order of Servites

Isaiah 58:9-14
Psalm 86:1-6
Luke 5:27-32

View Readings

THE SEED OF FASTING
"Hearken, O Lord, to my prayer and attend to the sound of my pleading." —Psalm 86:6

Yesterday, the Church read the first half of Isaiah 58 during the Mass. Today the Church reads the second half of the chapter. The entire chapter discusses the kind of fasting God desires (Is 58:6).

Fasting is the kernel of Lent. By imitating Jesus’ forty-day fast this Lent, we will reap a great spiritual harvest throughout Easter culminating in Pentecost. For fasting to grow, we must pull out the weeds of “oppression, false accusation and malicious speech” (Is 58:9). We must till the soil by pouring ourselves out for the hungry (Is 58:10). Then we will reap a miraculous first harvest of light, guidance, abundance, strength, and restoration (see Is 58:10-12). Then, if we further till the soil by keeping holy the Lord’s Day (see Is 58:13), we will reap a second harvest in which we “delight in the Lord” and “ride on the heights of the earth” (Is 58:14).

Fasting is a precious, fragile seed. It is difficult to plant it properly. It is even more difficult to keep it growing. Nevertheless, if we follow up on fasting as delineated by the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, we will harvest fruits which are precious and almost unimaginable. Let the Lord work through you in fasting.

Prayer: Father, may this Lenten fast be the fast of a lifetime.

Promise: "Leaving everything behind, Levi stood up and became His follower." —Lk 5:28

Praise: In 1240, seven noblemen of Florence, Italy, withdrew to a solitary place for prayer and service to God. In 1244, they adopted a habit and became known as Servants of Mary. Members came to the United States of America in 1852.



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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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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Best Agility Writer Review by Reyman Cruz

Here is the best Agility Writer Review by Reyman Cruz. 

What is Agility Writer?

Agility Writer is a content writing tool designed to streamline the content creation process for businesses and individuals. It leverages AI technology to assist users in generating high-quality written content, including articles, blog posts, website copy, and more.

Top Features of Agility Writer

• AI-Powered Writing Assistant: Agility Writer utilizes AI algorithms to provide real-time guidance and suggestions during the writing process. It helps users optimize content for clarity, tone, grammar, and style.
• Content Generation: The tool offers a variety of templates and frameworks to help users quickly create different types of content, such as SEO-friendly articles, persuasive marketing copy, and engaging social media posts.
• Content Optimization: Agility Writer analyzes user-generated content and provides recommendations for improving readability, structure, and overall effectiveness. It suggests synonyms, alternative phrases, and potential areas for expansion.
• Collaboration and Team Management: The tool enables users to collaborate with team members on content projects. It provides options for sharing drafts, assigning tasks, and reviewing feedback.

Benefits of Using Agility Writer

• Time Savings: Agility Writer's AI-powered assistance can save users a significant amount of time by eliminating the need for lengthy research and editing processes.
• Improved Quality: The tool helps users produce high-quality content that is grammatically correct, stylistically appropriate, and optimized for SEO.
• Increased Productivity: By streamlining the content creation process, Agility Writer enables users to create more content in less time, boosting their productivity.
• Enhanced Consistency: The collaboration features of the tool ensure that all team members are working towards a consistent brand voice and style.

Pricing and Plans

Agility Writer offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets. Plans start at $19 per month for the Basic plan, which provides access to the core writing assistant and content generation features. The Premium plan, priced at $49 per month, includes additional features such as advanced content optimization, collaboration tools, and priority support.

Alternatives to Agility Writer

• Jasper (formerly Jarvis): A popular AI-powered writing tool that offers similar features to Agility Writer.
• Writersonic: A content writing tool that specializes in generating SEO-optimized and persuasive content.
• Copy.ai: A writing assistant that offers a wide range of templates and use cases, including content for marketing, social media, and e-commerce.

Conclusion

Agility Writer is a valuable tool for businesses and individuals seeking to enhance their content creation process. Its AI-powered features, content generation capabilities, and collaboration tools can help users save time, improve quality, and increase productivity. While there are alternative options available, Agility Writer's comprehensive feature set and competitive pricing make it a solid choice for a wide range of users.

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FREE FAST FOOD - One Bread, One Body, 02/16/2024

Friday, February 16, 2024,

Isaiah 58:1-9
Psalm 51:3-6, 18-19
Matthew 9:14-15

View Readings

FREE FAST FOOD
"Do you call this a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord? This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly." —Isaiah 58:5-6

Jesus promised that His disciples would fast after He ascended to the Father (Mt 9:15). The Lord also promised that, when we fast in the right way, we will receive a wonderful freedom in which those bound unjustly are released, the thongs of the yoke are untied, the oppressed are set free, and every yoke is broken (Is 58:6). This freedom due to fasting is a catalyst through which a whole series of miracles occurs.

In this Lent, “let us therefore discover anew the humility and the courage to pray and fast so that power from on high will break down the walls of lies and deceit” (The Gospel of Life, Pope St. John Paul II, 100). “Jesus Himself has shown us by His own example that prayer and fasting are the first and most effective weapons against the forces of evil (cf Mt 4:1-11). As He taught His disciples, some demons cannot be driven out except in this way (cf Mk 9:29)” (The Gospel of Life, 100).

To break down the walls of our “culture of death,” to escape from the prisons of our secular humanistic society, and to be freed from the evil one, the Lord calls us to fast. Make this the great Lent of fasting to free us from sin and free us for the abundant life in Christ.

Prayer: Father, free me from Satan and free me for a "civilization of love" (Pope St. Paul VI, Dec. 25, 1970).

Promise: "Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed." —Is 58:8

Praise: Imitating the simple lifestyle of Jesus, Joseph sold his car and rode to work and church on a bicycle.

(For a related teaching on The Secret of Fasting, 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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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CHOOSING LIFE BY CHOOSING TO DIE - One Bread, One Body, 02/15/2024

Thursday, February 15, 2024,

Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Luke 9:22-25

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CHOOSING LIFE BY CHOOSING TO DIE
"Jesus said to all: 'Whoever wishes to be My follower must deny his very self, take up his cross each day, and follow in My steps.' " —Luke 9:23

Scripture exhorts us: “Choose life”! (Dt 30:19) However, Jesus tells us to die to ourselves in order to follow Him. How can we choose life, but die to ourselves? Jesus calls us to, in effect, choose death — death to ourselves, that is (Lk 9:23). As the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi says, it’s in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Jesus chose to obey His Father’s will; He not only died to Himself, but literally was put to death. The heavenly Father sent His Son to die so that we might live (Jn 3:16). We are likewise called to choose life, not death. Yet in the Christian mystery, by choosing to die to ourselves, our own will and desires, and by denying our very selves and following in the footsteps of Jesus, we gain eternal life (Mt 16:24-25). By contrast, if we choose our own will, and seemingly save our life, we lose it all (Mk 8:35).

St. Paul understood this profoundly. He testified: “I have been crucified with Christ, and the life I live now is not my own; Christ is living in me. I still live my human life, but it is a life of faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal 2:19-20). Choose life by choosing to die to yourself for Jesus.

Prayer: Father, I surrender to You my every desire. I am wholeheartedly Yours.

Promise: "Happy the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, but delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on His law day and night." —Ps 1:1-2

Praise: Richard, a young man, continually prays for a rebirth of chastity, especially among the youth.

(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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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DUST AND ASHES - One Bread, One Body, 02/14/2024

Wednesday, February 14, 2024, Ash Wednesday

Joel 2:12-18
2 Corinthians 5:20—6:2
Psalm 51:3-6, 12-14, 17
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
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DUST AND ASHES
"Return to Me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning." —Joel 2:12

On the first day of Lent, Ash Wednesday, we hear the words from the priest, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Lent is a time of repentance and discipline. Like Job, we “repent in dust and ashes” (Jb 42:6).

Dust plays a role in the cycle of repentance. Jesus spent forty days in the dust of the desert. He had no need to repent, for He had never sinned. Yet Jesus did “not disdain the discipline of the Lord” (Heb 12:5). The discipline in the dust of the desert led to the mortification of the cross. During Jesus’ Passion and death, His blood spilled upon the dust of the earth. Thus the Lord answered the age-old cry of the dust for reparation (see Gn 4:10).

Embrace the dust and ashes of Lenten repentance; embrace the discipline called for in the dust of the Lenten desert. Stay by the Cross of Christ, and let Him transform your dust and ashes into His fruitful garden soil, so you can bear a fruitful harvest for Jesus (Mk 4:20).

Prayer: Father, make this Lent the most fruitful of my life. Do in me whatever You must in order to do through me whatever You will.

Promise: "Then the Lord was stirred to concern for His land and took pity on His people." —Jl 2:18

Praise: Praise the Holy Spirit, Who leads us into the desert to be freed (Lk 4:1).

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(For the holiest Lent ever, learn more about the Bible. Listen to, order or download our Overview of the Bible, a small series which has six CDs starting with CD 10A-1 or three DVDs starting with DVD 10A 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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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YEAST BUT NOT LAST - One Bread, One Body, 02/13/2024

Tuesday, February 13, 2024,

James 1:12-18
Psalm 94:12-15, 18-19
Mark 8:14-21

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YEAST BUT NOT LAST
"Keep your eyes open! Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees." —Mark 8:15

Jesus warns us to be on guard not only against Satan, temptations, enemies, and persecutors, but also against yeast (of all things). When Jesus initially gave this warning, His disciples were confused. They thought He was literally speaking of yeast used to make bread (Mk 8:16). However, Jesus was speaking of “the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod” (Mk 8:15). He was speaking of the yeast of hostility against Him, hypocrisy (Lk 12:1), and false teaching (Mt 16:12). Jesus is warning us that warped and lukewarm Christianity can be contagious.

We should not respond to His warning by going in search of the perfect church. Rather, we are to respond by overcoming evil with good (Rm 12:21), fighting tepidity with fire (see Rv 3:16), and unmasking false teaching by speaking the truth in love (Eph 4:15).

There is not only a corrupting yeast but also a renewing one. Not only is the kingdom of Satan like yeast, but also “the reign of God is like yeast which a woman took and kneaded into three measures of flour. Eventually the whole mass of dough began to rise” (Mt 13:33). Not only can evil be contagious, but so can faith. Faith is not only taught but caught. If you guard against the dangers of the yeast of corruption and wickedness (1 Cor 5:8), Satan himself will be unable to stop the rising power of your yeast of renewal and holiness.

Prayer: Father, use me to raise faith in my family, parish, and neighborhood.

Promise: "He wills to bring us to birth with a word spoken in truth so that we may be a kind of first fruits of His creatures." —Jas 1:18

Praise: Thomas rebelled against God for many years. God drew him back to Himself when Thomas heard a favorite childhood hymn.



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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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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“GET WISDOM” (Prv 4:5) - One Bread, One Body, 02/12/2024

Monday, February 12, 2024,

James 1:1-11
Psalm 119:67-68, 71-72, 75-76
Mark 8:11-13

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"GET WISDOM" (Prv 4:5)
"If any of you is without wisdom, let him ask it from the God Who gives generously and ungrudgingly to all, and it will be given him. Yet he must ask in faith." —James 1:5-6

One of the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit is wisdom (Is 11:2; Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1831). God freely gives His wisdom if we ask Him for it. Yet we must ask God from a position of humility and faith (Jas 1:5-6). The Bible actually contains a book entitled Wisdom. There is even a section of the Bible called the Wisdom books, containing the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Wisdom, and Sirach. A wonderful way to seek God’s Wisdom is to spend time reading the Wisdom books.

The wisdom of man is foolishness to God (1 Cor 1:20). God’s ways are high above man’s ways (Is 55:8-9). “If any one of you thinks he is wise in a worldly way, he had better become a fool. In that way he will really be wise, for the wisdom of this world is absurdity with God” (1 Cor 3:18-19).

The young King Solomon humbly asked God for wisdom. “The Lord was pleased that Solomon made this request” (1 Kgs 3:10), and gave Solomon a wise and understanding heart (1 Kgs 3:12). Like Solomon, ask God in humble faith for wisdom.

A priest once gave a teaching on the topic of wisdom in the Bible. He began the teaching by saying, “This is God’s wisdom.” Then he turned and gazed for several moments upon the large crucifix mounted on the wall behind him. Jesus Christ crucified is “the wisdom of God” (1 Cor 1:24; see also 1 Cor 1:30; Catechism, 272). “Get wisdom” (Prv 4:5). 

Prayer: Father, "give me Wisdom, the Attendant at Your throne" (Wis 9:4).

Promise: "Realize that when your faith is tested this makes for endurance." —Jas 1:3

Praise: Jacob reads Bible stories to his children at dinner time. His sons' favorite story is about King Solomon's wisdom in judging his people (1 Kgs 3:16-28).

(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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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AN EPIDEMIC OF LEPROSY - One Bread, One Body, 02/11/2024

Sunday, February 11, 2024, 6th Sunday Ordinary Time

Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
1 Corinthians 10:31—11:1
Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11
Mark 1:40-45
View Readings

AN EPIDEMIC OF LEPROSY
"A leper approached Him with a request." —Mark 1:40

Our society and churches are filled with lepers. These people don’t have physical leprosy, which is Hanson’s disease, but the spiritual leprosy of self-hatred. They continually “cry out ‘Unclean, Unclean!’ ” (Lv 13:45) They do things to turn people away from them. They even tell God to stay away from them. They wallow in depression and degrade themselves through self-destructive compulsions such as overeating, alcoholism, drug abuse, gambling, addiction to TV and handheld electronic devices, sexual promiscuity, pornography, masturbation, gossip, etc.

Only one Person can cure spiritual leprosy — Jesus. In our leprous condition, we must kneel down and make an act of faith in Jesus, saying: “If You will to do so, You can cure” us (Mk 1:40). He will have mercy on us, stretch out His hand, touch us, and say: “I do will it. Be cured” (Mk 1:41). Then God’s grace can begin to free us from years of self-hatred and self-destruction. We will no longer be degraded by the tyranny of doing what feels good. We will be truly free and fully alive.

Then we should testify to our healing to whomever the Lord leads us. These people may also be lepers. They may have been discouraged by the lepers in their family and church. By sharing our healing, we will open them to Jesus. They will no longer tell Jesus to stay away from them, but will let Him touch them.

Prayer: Father, may I repent of self-hatred and let Jesus touch me in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Promise: "Whether you eat or drink — whatever you do — you should do all for the glory of God." —1 Cor 10:31

Praise: To You, risen Lord Jesus, be highest glory and praise for ever. Alleluia!

(For a related teaching on The Truth Will Set You Free, 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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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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JESUS, MY LORD, MY GOD, MY ALL! - One Bread, One Body, 02/10/2024

Saturday, February 10, 2024, St. Scholastica

1 Kings 12:26-32; 13:33-34
Psalm 106:6-7, 19-22
Mark 8:1-10

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JESUS, MY LORD, MY GOD, MY ALL!
"By now they have been with Me three days and have nothing to eat." —Mark 8:2

Would you spend three days with Jesus even if you didn’t eat the whole time? Jesus is “the Bread of Life” (Jn 6:35). He promised: “No one who believes in Me shall ever thirst” (Jn 6:35). Jesus alone fulfills our every need (see Mt 6:11). Apart from Jesus, there is inevitable and encompassing emptiness. In Jesus, there is “absolute fullness” (Col 1:19).

When we put Jesus first, when we forget about ourselves and concentrate on Him, when we seek first His kingdom, then we find that “all these things will be given” us besides (Mt 6:33). This is not to say that we should be irresponsible, but that we should be responsible to obey Him rather than do our own thing.

How many of us have seen the Lord multiply food, time, energy, or resources? A better question is: “How many of us have focused so much on Jesus for three days that we need Him to do a multiplication miracle?” Give everything to Jesus, and He will give everything necessary to you, even if He has to multiply almost nothing to meet your great needs. Make Jesus your whole life, and He will give you abundant life (see Jn 10:10).

Prayer: Father, Provider, Your grace is sufficient (see 2 Cor 12:9).

Promise: "The people in the crowd ate until they had their fill." —Mk 8:8

Praise: St. Scholastica and her twin brother, St. Benedict, gave up their close relationship to form religious communities of their own.

(To help you give everything to Jesus, read the Bible every day. For encouragement, listen to, download or order Ignorance of Scriptures is Ignorance of Christ on CD 82-1 or DVD 82, How to Pray the Bible on CD 82-3 or DVD 82 or How to Read the Bible on CD 46-3 or DVD 46 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, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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

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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

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

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OBEDIENCE LEADS TO HEALING - One Bread, One Body, 02/09/2024

Friday, February 9, 2024,

1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19
Psalm 81:10-15
Mark 7:31-37

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OBEDIENCE LEADS TO HEALING
"If only My people would hear Me…" —Psalm 81:14

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus traveled into pagan Gentile territory, “into the district of the Ten Cities” (Mk 7:31). “Some people brought Him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged Him to lay His hand on him” (Mk 7:32). These Gentiles had faith similar to the Jewish stretcher-bearers who broke through a roof and brought a paralytic to Jesus for healing (Lk 5:18-19). How did these pagan Gentiles come to have such faith?

Earlier in Mark’s Gospel, Jesus had driven a large number of demons out of a man (Mk 5:2-13). Jesus had told him to go home and proclaim God’s mercy to his family (Mk 5:19). The healed man then witnessed not only to his family and hometown, but also “went off and began to proclaim throughout the Ten Cities what Jesus had done for him” (Mk 5:20). These people “were all amazed at what they heard” (Mk 5:20).

When Jesus drove out the “Legion” of demons from the demoniac (Mk 5:9), the healed man asked Jesus if he could follow Him (Mk 5:18). “Jesus did not grant his request, but told him instead: ‘Go home to your family and make it clear to them how much the Lord in His mercy has done for you’ ” (Mk 5:19). His obedient witnessing prepared the Ten Cities for the later healing of the deaf and mute man.

The Lord may assign to you a task you don’t prefer. Will you obey Him regardless? As He did in the Ten Cities, God can use your obedience in ways you cannot foresee.

Prayer: Father, "not my will but Yours be done" (Lk 22:42). Use me in any way You choose.

Promise: "He has done everything well! He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." —Mk 7:37

Praise: Robert, a young man, made a decision to put his past behind him, put his life in God's hands, and live in the newness of each day (see Phil 3:13; Lam 3:23).

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

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from February 1, 2024, through March 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 7, 2023"

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

-----------------------------------------------------------------

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..