WHY EVANGELIZE? - One Bread, One Body, 12/27/2024

Friday, December 27, 2024, St. John

1 John 1:1-4
Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12
John 20:1-8

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WHY EVANGELIZE?
"...so that you may share life with us." —1 John 1:3

One would think St. John the Apostle shared his Gospel so that his hearers would believe in Jesus the Messiah. After all, he testified that this was why he wrote his Gospel (Jn 20:31). Yet John also writes that he testifies to Jesus so that his readers might share fellowship with his own community. The members of John’s community share fellowship with God the Father and God the Son (1 Jn 1:3). Knowing that his readers could experience such communal fellowship would make John’s joy complete (1 Jn 1:4).

This is God’s viewpoint. God greatly desires to have fellowship with us, even to the point of inviting us to share eternal life with Him (Jn 3:16). Jesus spread the Gospel to many, all the while greatly desiring to share the table fellowship of the Eucharistic meal with us (Lk 22:15).

As good as it is to spread the Gospel, it’s also good to want others to share life and fellowship with us (Acts 2:42; 1 Jn 1:3). St. John the Apostle learned this lesson personally. John didn’t want to share fellowship with Samaritans (Lk 9:52-54); he wanted to incinerate them! Jesus corrected him immediately (Lk 9:55). After Pentecost, John actually went to Samaria to pray with these same Samaritans so they could receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17).

We also need to learn John’s lesson. Are there people whom you would like to become believers, but only if they keep their distance from you? Ask the Lord for the grace to love these people as He does.

Prayer: Father, purify my motives so that I may spread Your Good News in the same manner as St. John did.

Promise: "He saw and believed." —Jn 20:8

Praise: St. John wrote: "God is Love" (1 Jn 4:8, 16).

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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IN THE SPIRIT OF STEPHEN - One Bread, One Body, 12/26/2024

Thursday, December 26, 2024, St. Stephen

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

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IN THE SPIRIT OF STEPHEN
"They proved no match for the wisdom and spirit with which [Stephen] spoke." —Acts 6:10

St. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. He “was a man filled with grace and power, who worked great wonders and signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). His ministry was that of a deacon ordained to distribute daily food supplies to the Jewish widows of Greek ancestry (Acts 6:1). Stephen and six other deacons were appointed to this task so that the apostles could “concentrate on prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). Stephen did carry out his food distribution ministry. In addition, through the Holy Spirit, he also ministered so powerfully in evangelization, signs, and wonders that the enemies of the Church killed Stephen even before the Twelve Apostles.

Jesus warned His disciples and apostles of this coming persecution (Mt 10:16-18). Yet persecution leads to the spread of the Gospel rather than its suppression. The world cannot chain the Word of God (2 Tm 2:9), no matter how hard it tries to suppress or persecute Jesus’ witnesses. “The blood of martyrs is the seed of Christians” and of the Church (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 852). Accordingly, Saul, the persecutor of the Church, who witnessed the martyrdom of Stephen, was transformed into a preacher of the faith he tried to destroy (Gal 1:23). Therefore, be a Stephen. Speak up for Jesus. The Lord says to you: “Do not be afraid. Go on speaking and do not be silenced, for I am with you” (Acts 18:9-10).

Prayer: "O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall proclaim Your praise" (Ps 51:17).

Promise: "For Your name's sake You will lead and guide me." —Ps 31:4

Praise: St. Stephen accepted the grace to forgive his murderers and saw Jesus in heaven before his earthly life ended.

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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FOOTPRINTS - One Bread, One Body, 12/25/2024

Wednesday, December 25, 2024, Christmas

Isaiah 52:7-10
Hebrews 1:1-6
Psalm 98:1-6
John 1:1-18
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FOOTPRINTS
"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of Him Who brings glad tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation." —Isaiah 52:7

We parents can spend much time gazing at our babies. We enjoy the way our infant’s feet and toes curl up and expand. We count the number of toes and fingers. Each little movement brings fresh delight. Before we know it, we’ve spent a half-hour contemplating our baby. We can spend hours looking at our own baby and never tire of it, because we love our baby so much.

Jesus took on flesh and became a Baby Boy (Jn 1:14). Now we can relate to Him in a way that we couldn’t previously. As a parent delights in admiring each aspect of their newborn, so we can reflect on the many aspects of the incarnate Infant, Jesus.

This Christmas season, as you contemplate the Baby Jesus, reflect especially upon Jesus’ beautiful feet (Is 52:7). He traveled dusty roads to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God (Mt 10:14). He let His feet be washed by the penitent woman (Lk 7:44-45) so we would know that love overcomes a multitude of sins (1 Pt 4:8). He allowed His feet to be pierced and nailed to a cross and bleed for our salvation. His feet pushed painfully upon the nails so He could breathe enough to speak His last words on the cross.

Choose the better portion this Christmas (Lk 10:42). Sit at the beautiful feet of Jesus and listen to His words (Lk 10:39).

Prayer: Jesus, give me such a love for You that I never tire of meditating on You. Thank You for coming to earth to save us all.

Promise: "Any who did accept Him He empowered to become children of God." —Jn 1:12

Praise: "Glory to God in high heaven, peace on earth to those on whom His favor rests" (Lk 2:14).

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

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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ADVENT PREGNANCY - One Bread, One Body, 12/24/2024

Tuesday, December 24, 2024,

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

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ADVENT PREGNANCY
"Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, uttered this prophecy..." —Luke 1:67

To give birth, a mother must be pregnant for approximately nine months. To give birth this Christmas, a Christian must be filled with Jesus for at least a few weeks. The birth of every creature requires a pregnancy of varying duration. Have you carried the baby long enough? Have you reached full term? How far apart are the contractions? Tomorrow is birth day, Jesus’ birthday. Are you ready for birthing?

St. Zechariah went through the nine-month pregnancy with his wife. It was a difficult pregnancy. Zechariah was mute, and at the end of nine months was hardly any closer to bringing forth life. Yet finally he obeyed the Lord; “his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed” (Lk 1:64). He gave birth to a prophecy that has echoed throughout the ages: “Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel because He has visited and ransomed His people” (Lk 1:68).

The prophet Nathan heard about King David’s plan of building God a house. He went to sleep that night and woke up laboring to give birth to the greatest prophecy of the old covenant, the establishing of David’s house forever (2 Sm 7:16).

You have reached the full term of Advent pregnancy. Expect to go into labor soon and deliver the prophetic Word.

Prayer: Jesus, I can hardly wait for the birth of Your new life. "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Rv 22:20)

Promise: "He, the Dayspring, shall visit us in His mercy to shine on those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." —Lk 1:78-79

Praise: "Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel because He has visited and ransomed His people" (Lk 1:68).

(For a related teaching on Seek Prophecy, 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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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ZECHARIAH’S SCHOOL OF SILENCE - One Bread, One Body, 12/23/2024

Monday, December 23, 2024, St. John of Kanty

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

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ZECHARIAH'S SCHOOL OF SILENCE
"At that moment his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he began to speak in praise of God." —Luke 1:64

St. Zechariah the priest had spent long years serving the Lord in the Temple. However, he failed his test when the archangel Gabriel appeared to him and announced the good news of answered prayer (Lk 1:13ff). Zechariah thus entered the school of listening to the Lord, a school of silence. To ensure that Zechariah would be attentive to his lessons, the archangel Gabriel removed his ability to speak (Lk 1:20, 62).

Zechariah’s first three months of school were elementary school. During his wife’s first trimester, Zechariah could not yet see the baby growing, but had to learn to cultivate faith. Months four through six of Zechariah’s school of silence were high school level lessons. He still couldn’t speak, but he could see his wife’s womb gradually stretching, and he too was stretched. Like his son in St. Elizabeth’s womb, Zechariah’s faith was growing.

For the final three months of Zechariah’s school of silence, the Blessed Virgin Mary arrived to teach the graduate school courses: listening, wisdom, trust, and obedience (Lk 1:56). Zechariah passed his final exam with highest honors by obeying the command of God to name his son John (Lk 1:13, 63). He regained his speech. Zechariah’s commencement address, his Benedictus, was a prophecy that has been repeated by the Church in Morning Prayer for centuries (Lk 1:68-79).

Zechariah’s silent schooling was forced because his faith in God was weak. It need not be that way with us. Come to God in silence each day and actively listen for His voice (see Lam 3:26).

Prayer: Father, make me a docile student in Your school of silence so that many might learn of Your love through me.

Promise: "The friendship of the Lord is with those who fear Him, and His covenant, for their instruction." —Ps 25:14

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

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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JESUS, PEACE ON EARTH - One Bread, One Body, 12/22/2024

Sunday, December 22, 2024, Fourth Sunday of Advent

Micah 5:1-4
Hebrews 10:5-10
Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19
Luke 1:39-45
View Readings

JESUS, PEACE ON EARTH
"He shall be peace." —Micah 5:4

The angels heralding Jesus’ birth proclaimed “Peace on earth” as Peace Incarnate entered the world (Lk 2:14). In doing His Father’s will (Heb 10:7), Jesus, the Ruler, brings peace to His people (Mi 5:1, 4). Jesus our Peace (Eph 2:14) comes to bring peace. When He appeared to His apostles on the evening of His Resurrection, Jesus’ first words were, “Peace be with you” (Jn 20:19).

How ironic and sad that Peace should be hunted down by the government as an Infant (Mt 2:16) and forced to flee as a Refugee to a foreign land (Mt 2:13ff). Finally, Peace was persecuted, brutalized, and crucified. Jesus is still hunted down and crucified by present-day governments. For example, Jesus was ejected from the American public schools. Decades later, some high schools hire armed guards to try to keep the peace. How many acts of violence have been committed in the public schools since Peace was thrown out? Jesus laments to all who reject Him: “If only you had known the path of peace this day; but you have completely lost it from view!” (Lk 19:42)

Do we really want peace on earth? Would we rather have worldly peace, which is often merely the temporary cessation of war, or true “shalom” peace, which overturns (see Jn 2:14ff) the world’s systems, cultures, societies, and lifestyles? True world peace can be achieved only by opening our lives, homes, social structures, schools, institutions, and governments to Jesus, Who is Peace (Eph 2:14).

Prayer: Jesus, "Prince of Peace" (Is 9:5), let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me receiving You as Lord of my life.

Promise: "We have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." —Heb 10:10

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

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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SALUTATIONS AND VISITATIONS - One Bread, One Body, 12/21/2024

Saturday, December 21, 2024, St. Peter Canisius

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

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SALUTATIONS AND VISITATIONS
"Hark! my lover — here he comes springing across the mountains, leaping across the hills." —Song of Songs 2:8

At the very beginning of her pregnancy, the Blessed  Virgin Mary visited St. Elizabeth. “When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt in her womb. Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and cried out in a loud voice: ‘Blest are you among women and blest is the Fruit of your womb. But who am I that the mother of my Lord should come to me?’ ” (Lk 1:41-43) Both St. Elizabeth and St. John responded to Jesus’ presence and Mary’s visitation with praise in the Holy Spirit.

At the very end of Mary’s pregnancy, she and St. Joseph visited an inn to find a place to have their Baby. The innkeeper responded to Jesus’ presence and the holy family’s plight with rejection (Lk 2:7). His inn and his heart had no room for God-made-man.

The Lord continues to visit His people. He continues to be accepted by some and rejected by others. “He was in the world, and through Him the world was made, yet the world did not know Who He was. To His own He came, yet His own did not accept Him. Any who did accept Him He empowered to become children of God” (Jn 1:10-12). If we can be like Elizabeth and John in accepting Jesus, we can be like Mary in giving Him to the world.

Prayer: Jesus, may I become so sensitive to Your presence that even a greeting or a word would stir up the Holy Spirit in me. Give me the Holy Spirit of Christmas.

Promise: "Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged! The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty Savior." —Zep 3:16-17

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

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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“REJOICE” THE LORD ALWAYS - One Bread, One Body, 12/20/2024

Friday, December 20, 2024,

Isaiah 7:10-14
Psalm 24:1-6
Luke 1:26-38

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"REJOICE" THE LORD ALWAYS
"Is it not enough for you to weary men, must you also weary my God?" —Isaiah 7:13

Before writing this, I sat at two airports for several hours as my flights were canceled and/or delayed. I was very weary. Then I read Isaiah 7:13. In a manner of speaking, I weary God when I:

• complain and whine about my own weariness,
• refuse to “walk by faith” (see 2 Cor 5:7),
• sin,
• disobey the Lord,
• refuse to forgive,
• refuse to repent,
• gossip,
• waste the time the Lord has given me, and
• live in selfishness.

Those who sin like Ahaz and St. Zechariah (see Is 7:12; Lk 1:20) weary the Lord. Those who have faith like that of the Blessed Virgin Mary give the Lord reason to rejoice over them with gladness and to sing joyfully because of them (Zep 3:17).

Men and women of faith, “rejoice” the Lord always. “I say it again. Rejoice!” (Phil 4:4)

Prayer: Jesus, You are my Joy. May I always be Your joy.

Promise: "I am the servant of the Lord. Let it be done to me as you say." —Lk 1:38

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



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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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FORGOTTEN PRAYER? - One Bread, One Body, 12/19/2024

Thursday, December 19, 2024,

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25
Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17
Luke 1:5-25

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FORGOTTEN PRAYER?
"Do not be frightened, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard." —Luke 1:13

St. Luke’s Gospel text gives us several clues to Zechariah’s background. Sts. Zechariah and Elizabeth were advanced in age. Elizabeth was past the age of bearing children (Lk 1:18, 36). Apparently, some years before, Zechariah had prayed for children; hence, the angel says: “Your prayer has been heard” (Lk 1:13). Zechariah’s startled and skeptical reaction indicates that he probably had forgotten about this prayer and perhaps hadn’t prayed for a child in quite a few years.

Sometimes we Christians assume that prayer has a kind of spiritual statute of limitations; that if God hasn’t answered our prayers in what seems to us a “reasonable” amount of time, then He has forgotten our prayer and therefore the prayer no longer is valid. However, the angel tells Zechariah, “Your prayer has been heard” (Lk 1:13). The angel assured Zechariah that his words will “come true in due season” (Lk 1:20).

Have you prayed for something for a time, then stopped praying because it seemed to you that God wasn’t listening? Put aside all skepticism and doubt. Lift up your prayer again to the Lord. “Silence...in the presence of the Lord!” (Zec 2:17) Be still and know that He is God (see Ps 46:10, RSV-CE).

Prayer: Pray to the Father a seemingly unanswered prayer which you haven't prayed in years.

Promise: "In these days the Lord is acting on my behalf." —Lk 1:25

Praise: "O Flower of Jesse's stem, You have been raised up as a Sign for all peoples; kings stand silent in Your presence; the nations bow down in worship before You. Come, let nothing keep You from coming to our aid."

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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O COME, ALL YE FAITH-FUL - One Bread, One Body, 12/18/2024

Wednesday, December 18, 2024,

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

View Readings

O COME, ALL YE FAITH-FUL
"When Joseph awoke he did as the angel of the Lord had directed him and received her into his home as his wife. He had no relations with her at any time before she bore a Son, Whom he named Jesus." —Matthew 1:24-25

We need every moment of Advent to grow in faith. It is so easy to miss Christ’s Christmas coming. Only those who are filled with faith will be ready to meet Him.

St. Joseph, the man of faith, believed an angel’s message, which he heard in a dream (Mt 1:20). He believed that his wife was pregnant by the power of the Holy Spirit. This was one of the most astounding acts of faith ever. St. Joseph, pray for us to grow deeply and quickly in faith during these last days of Advent.

In the first reading of today’s Mass, the Church presents to us a prophecy from Jeremiah referring to the Exodus and to the Israelites’ return from exile in Babylon (Jer 23:7-8). Both of these monumental events came out of nowhere. To believe that they would ever occur would be to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor 5:7).

Several mountains loom between us and meeting Christ this Christmas. Only by faith can we move these mountains (Mt 17:20). In these last few days of Advent, let us cry out: “I believe! Help my lack of faith!” (see Mk 9:24) Let us abide in God’s Word (Jn 8:31) by which we hear Him and have faith in Him (Rm 10:17). Let us grow in faith, even if we have to suffer (see 1 Pt 1:6-7). When Advent is the time of our greatest faith, Christmas will be the greatest ever.

Prayer: Father, give me faith like that of St. Joseph.

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

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

(Is your family ready for Christmas? View, download or order our leaflet Healing the Family Tree 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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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WE AND JESUS - One Bread, One Body, 12/17/2024

Tuesday, December 17, 2024,

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

View Readings

WE AND JESUS
"A family record of Jesus Christ…" —Matthew 1:1

By his sin, Adam warped the human family tree. Jesus transformed and rebuilt it. In Jesus’ family tree, there are sinners, prostitutes, murderers, adulterers, and foreigners. Yet where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more (Rm 5:20). God had a plan for Jesus’ family tree, “a plan which included us” (Heb 11:40).

When “the Word became flesh” (Jn 1:14), He bore the burden of all our human dysfunction – sin, weakness, mortality, betrayal, human foibles, pettiness, and so much more. He also experienced joy, family love, compassion, peace, blessing, justice, nobility, love, and happiness. He took on boredom, anonymity, and a human family with a broken foundation. Jesus became a “Repairer of the breach…Restorer of ruined homesteads” (Is 58:12).

Many leave the Church because they cannot stand the hypocrites, the sinners, and the scandal which they see. Jesus sees His family differently. The genealogy declares that things are no longer me and Jesus, but “we and Jesus.”  Jesus makes all things new (Is 43:19). Jesus can’t wait to introduce His family to us. He puts His family first in the entire New Testament. If we won’t love these people, how can we love God? (1 Jn 4:20)

Through Baptism, Jesus has adopted us into His family. He wants us to be a part of His family. Do you want to be a part of His family? Then come to His family meal, the Holy Eucharist.

Prayer: Jesus, I am so thrilled to be a member of Your family. Give me Your heart of love for Your people, particularly those who are difficult to love.

Promise: "The mountains shall yield peace for the people, and the hills justice." —Ps 72:3

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

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Include time with the Lord in your New Year resolutions. See our website for a list of retreats.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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

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

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A DESCENDING SPIRAL - One Bread, One Body, 12/16/2024

Monday, December 16, 2024,

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

View Readings

A DESCENDING SPIRAL
"Then why did you not put faith in it?" —Matthew 21:25

Many of the chief priests and elders did not believe in St. John the Baptizer’s baptism. Thus, they were not prepared to accept Jesus. So, they crucified Him. Many people are so ignorant of history or disobedient to God that they do not take Advent seriously. Thus, they are not prepared to meet Christ at Christmastime (see Mt 2:7-8, 12). So they miss out on Christmas.

When Christmas is a far cry from what the Lord wants it to be, then many do not have God’s mindset about Christmas. Rather, they think their mediocre, watered-down Christmas is the true meaning of Christmas. With this view of Christmas, they do not expect much for the next Christmas. Therefore, they see little need for Advent, since things that do not mean much (like such a view of Christmas) do not need much preparation. Thus they have another poor Advent, leading to another substandard Christmas, leading to a poorer Advent and Christmas next year, etc.

Are you in a descending spiral of Advents and Christmases? This is very bad for your life, death, and afterlife. Throw your heart into Advent now before you miss out on Christmas again.

Prayer: Father, give me Your level of Advent.

Promise: "A Star shall advance from Jacob, and a Staff shall rise from Israel." —Nm 24:17

Praise: Karen resolved to pray for the Pope and bishops rather than criticize them.

(To get out of a descending spiral, learn more about the Bible. Listen to, download or order the following series on our website: Overview of the Bible is six CDs starting with AV 10A-1 or three DVDs starting with V-10A. An Introduction to each Book of the Bible is thirty-two CDs starting with AV 21-1 or seventeen DVDs starting with V-21.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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CATALYTIC CONVERTERS - One Bread, One Body, 12/15/2024

Sunday, December 15, 2024, Third Sunday of Advent

Zephaniah 3:14-18
Philippians 4:4-7
Isaiah 12:2-6
Luke 3:10-18
View Readings

CATALYTIC CONVERTERS
"Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again. Rejoice!" —Philippians 4:4

St. Paul made one of the greatest proclamations in history when he commanded the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again. Rejoice!” On Paul’s initial mission to the Philippians, he and St. Silas were beaten, stripped, scourged, thrown in jail, and had their feet tied to a stake (Acts 16:22-24). Under these terrible conditions, Sts. Paul and Silas decided to rejoice and sing praises to the Lord (Acts 16:25). This joyful praise was catalytic. It was followed by an earthquake, which resulted in freedom from chains and prison (Acts 16:26). Next, the jailer and his family were converted to Christ (Acts 16:33). At Philippi, Paul personally experienced the power of praise and joy. So, he knew what he was talking about when he commanded: “Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again. Rejoice!”

Paul came to realize that he had joy not in spite of sufferings but rather by means of sufferings. Sufferings are not incompatible with joy; instead, they are even necessary to rejoice always. Paul proclaimed: “Even now I find my joy in the suffering I endure for you” (Col 1:24). We rejoice in the measure that we share Christ’s sufferings (1 Pt 4:13). Therefore, it is impossible to rejoice in the Lord always unless we suffer with Christ.

Joy is catalytic. It sets off a chain-reaction of miracles leading to salvation. Redemptive suffering is a catalyst of catalysts. It leads to joy.

Prayer: Father, on this Gaudete (Rejoice) Sunday, reveal to me the mysteries of joy.

Promise: "Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel!" —Zep 3:14

Praise: Jesus came forth from the tomb; "Truth shall spring out of the earth" (Ps 85:12). Praise the risen Jesus, "the Way, and the Truth, and the Life" (Jn 14:6).

(Give our Bible Telephone Line a try. Call 513-823-3111.)

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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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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PREPARING TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/14/2024

Saturday, December 14, 2024, St. John of the Cross

Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11
Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19
Matthew 17:9-13

View Readings

PREPARING TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS
"Elijah has already come, but they did not recognize him." —Matthew 17:12

The prophetic ministry of Elijah prepared the way for the prophetic ministry of St. John the Baptizer. John prophesied “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Lk 1:17). Jesus even stated that John the Baptizer “is Elijah” (Mt 11:14). Elijah prepared the way for John, who came to “prepare the way of the Lord” (Mt 3:3). God prepared the way for His Son’s coming for centuries. He sent prophet after prophet. He gave visions, warnings, and encouragements. In fact, the entire Old Testament points to the coming of Jesus, the Messiah.

If God, Who is all-knowing and always ready, spent centuries preparing “a people well-disposed” (Lk 1:17), then we, who know so little and are often unprepared for the future, surely need at least four weeks of Advent to prepare for Christ’s Christmas coming. We need Elijah’s ministry of fire (Sir 48:1, 3) to burn away the “holiday” distractions and fill us with the fire of the Holy Spirit. We need to be immersed in repentance this Advent (Mk 1:4). Our sincere Advent Confession removes both mountains as well as “speed bumps” of sin (see Lk 3:5), which prevent us from being quick to welcome Jesus. Instead of preparing for the “holidays” by attending Christmas parties, we need to prepare for “Christ-Mass” by attending Advent banquets, that is, Masses, Eucharistic banquets of the Lamb. “Prepare the way of the Lord” this Advent and have the Christmas of a lifetime.

Prayer: Father, this Advent may I "learn to value the things that really matter" in life (Phil 1:10). I devote my life to seeking Jesus.

Promise: "Give us new life, and we will call upon Your name." —Ps 80:19

Praise: St. John of the Cross taught that someone who seeks happiness in the world is like "a famished person who opens his mouth to satisfy himself with air."

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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CARE FOR A DRINK? - One Bread, One Body, 12/13/2024

Friday, December 13, 2024, St. Lucy

Isaiah 48:17-19
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Matthew 11:16-19

View Readings

CARE FOR A DRINK?
"He is like a tree planted near running water, that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade." —Psalm 1:3

The trees in the woods respond to running water. When you walk in the hills, you can find the streams simply by looking for certain bottomland trees. For example, sycamore trees live along streams. You can readily find a stream by looking for clusters of sycamore trees.

Jesus declared that if anyone thirsts, they should come to Him and He will give them the living water of the Spirit (see Jn 4:14; 7:37-38). Trees respond to running water. Why don’t humans unfailingly respond to the flowing water of the Holy Spirit?

God teaches us what is “for [our] good” (Is 48:17). Sadly, we human beings can be hard-hearted, not responding to God’s promptings of joy or sorrow (Mt 11:17). In fact, hard-hearted people go so far as to vilify those who do follow God’s promptings, such as Jesus and St. John the Baptizer (Mt 11:18-19). Jesus and John followed the living water; they responded to both the joyful and sorrowful promptings of God. The hard-hearted respond to neither. “Today, if you should hear His voice, harden not your hearts” (Heb 3:7-8).

The trees long for running water. The deer longs for running water (Ps 42:2). We humans were born to thirst for running water, and especially for the flowing water of the Spirit that Jesus gives (Jn 7:37-38). “Come to the water” (Is 55:1). Drink fully of the running, flowing, living water of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Father, may I thirst for Your Spirit as a newborn baby thirsts for milk (1 Pt 2:2).

Promise: "If you would hearken to My commandments, your prosperity would be like a river, and your vindication like the waves of the sea." —Is 48:18 Praise: St. Lucy's prayers were instrumental in the healing of her mother from hemorrhages.

Praise: St. Lucy's prayers were instrumental in the healing of her mother from hemorrhages.

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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“DEED OF HOPE” (Jdt 13:19) - One Bread, One Body, 12/12/2024

Thursday, December 12, 2024, Our Lady of Guadalupe

Zechariah 2:14-17 or
Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10
Judith 13:18-19
Luke 1:26-38
View Readings

"DEED OF HOPE" (Jdt 13:19)
"Blest is she who trusted that the Lord's words to her would be fulfilled." —Luke 1:45

A few minutes before writing this teaching, my daughter brought to my attention an article by an eighteen-year-old girl who wrote about her abortion. The girl concluded her article by saying: “I want to have a good life. To keep this baby now, when I’m single, broke, and about to start college, would be unfair.”

Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, was in similar circumstances. She also was young, broke, and pregnant. The teenage mother above used the word “unfair.” Possibly, in her humility, Mary might have also thought it “unfair” that she should be carrying this Child. Mary maintained that she was merely a lowly servant of God (Lk 1:38, 48). She possibly thought it “unfair” that Almighty God would honor her among all people for the privilege of carrying God’s Son (Lk 1:49).

“Nothing is impossible with God” (Lk 1:37). The abortion industry has a stronghold on much of the planet, but Mary has a stronghold over Satan (see Gn 3:15). Through Mary’s “Yes,” God “guided [her] blow at the head of the chief of our enemies” (Jdt 13:18).

Mary overcame Satan through her “Yes” to God. May we follow her example and her advice by likewise saying “Yes” to the Lord and doing whatever He tells us (Jn 2:5).

Prayer: Father, "I am the servant of the Lord. Let it be done to me as You say" (Lk 1:38).

Promise: "Your deed of hope will never be forgotten by those who tell of the might of God." —Jdt 13:19

Praise: Through Our Lady of Guadalupe, the practice of sacrificing infants to false gods came to a halt in Mexico.

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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A CHRISTMAS TREAT - One Bread, One Body, 12/11/2024

Wednesday, December 11, 2024, Pope St. Damasus I

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

View Readings

A CHRISTMAS TREAT
"Come to Me." —Matthew 11:28

Jesus came to earth to set people free (Lk 4:18), but most people made His life burdensome. He carried the burden of our sins (Mt 8:17), and He carried the cross to pay for our sins (Jn 19:17). Jesus came to earth to refresh us, but most people did not refresh Him. He was rejected (Jn 1:11), ridiculed (Mt 27:42), spurned (Jn 18:40), disbelieved (Mt 17:17), avoided (Is 53:3), mocked (Mk 15:19-20), and crucified (Jn 19:18). How wonderful that Jesus does not deal with us according to our sins nor requite us according to our crimes! (Ps 103:10)

Jesus is “merciful and gracious,” “slow to anger and abounding in kindness” (Ps 103:8). “He pardons all [our] iniquities” (Ps 103:3). “He crowns [us] with kindness and compassion, He fills [our] lifetime with good” (Ps 103:4-5). He refreshes, teaches, guides, and helps us (Mt 11:28-30).

Praise Jesus forever that He doesn’t treat us as we had once treated Him. Let us treat Him as He has treated us. Like St. Martha, let’s throw open our home and our life to Jesus and welcome Him with open arms (Jn 12:2). Like St. Mary of Bethany, let us lavish love and praise on Jesus (Jn 12:3). Like the magi, let us give Jesus our very best gifts (Mt 2:11).

Come to Jesus (Mt 11:28). Love Him with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind (Lk 10:27). “Let every heart prepare Him room.” Welcome Jesus this Advent, Christmas, and forever.

Prayer: Maranatha! "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Rv 22:20) Come to me, and I will love You.

Promise: "They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles' wings." —Is 40:31

Praise: Pope St. Damasus I worked for the reconciliation of schismatics and heretics so that the Church might be united.

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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 ADVENT DESERT - One Bread, One Body, 12/10/2024

Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Our Lady of Loreto

Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 96:1-3, 10-13
Matthew 18:12-14

View Readings

THE ADVENT DESERT
"In the desert prepare the way of the Lord!" —Isaiah 40:3

The desert and the wasteland are mentioned in both the first reading and the Gospel reading for today’s Mass. Isaiah speaks of a voice crying out in the desert, “Prepare the way of the Lord! Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God!” (Is 40:3) In the Gospel, a sheep strays from the safety of the shepherd’s care and the shepherd goes off to search for it (Mt 18:12ff). In Luke’s parallel version of this parable, the ninety-nine sheep are left in the “wasteland” (Lk 15:4) while the shepherd searches for the lost sheep.

Advent is more a trip into the desert than “walking in a winter wonderland.” Jesus goes into the desert to bring “comfort” (Is 40:1), to seek the lost, to transform the desert into a place of hope. Just as God was present for forty years with the Israelites in the desert, giving them manna from heaven to eat and miraculous water to drink, so Jesus goes into the desert. Jesus, the Rock, followed His people in the desert (1 Cor 10:4), nourishing and protecting them. He calls us to likewise comfort those in deserted places.

Advent is a time to wait in joyful hope. Possibly you know someone who is wandering in the desert rather than in a place of hope. Jesus, the Good Shepherd (Jn 10:11), has gone into the desert. If Jesus goes into the desert, then as His disciples, we follow Him into the Advent desert. We go where He goes, in search of lost sheep. Jesus transforms the desert and makes it bloom (Is 35:6ff). He makes the “rough country” a “broad valley” (Is 40:4).

Are you in a desert this Advent? Receive the Lord’s comfort (Is 40:1) and give it to others. “Rejoice, for the Lord is near!”

Prayer: Jesus, I want to prepare Your way. Give me a great desire to straighten Your paths into the lives of all who need You.

Promise: "It is no part of your heavenly Father's plan that a single one of these little ones shall ever come to grief." —Mt 18:14

Praise: Pope Francis established the feast of Our Lady of Loreto in 2019, writing, "This celebration will help all people…to imitate the virtues of that perfect disciple of the gospel, the Virgin Mother."

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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A COMMITMENT OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY - One Bread, One Body, 12/09/2024

Monday, December 9, 2024, Immaculate Conception

Genesis 3:9-15, 20
Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12
Psalm 98:1-4
Luke 1:26-38
View Readings

A COMMITMENT OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY
"Mary said: 'Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.' " —Luke 1:38, RNAB

The Lord teaches us through His Church: “In fact, in order for Mary to be able to give the free assent of her faith to the announcement of her vocation, it was necessary that she be wholly borne by God’s grace” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 490). Mary was immaculately conceived “to be able to give the free assent of her faith.” A cynic may say that at Jesus’ Incarnation, Mary was a teenage girl from a rural town who had no idea what she was saying when she gave her “fiat.” Some would say that her “fiat” was not a great, grace-filled act of faith and love but an expression of confusion and ignorance. However, the truth of Mary’s Immaculate Conception indicates that Mary’s “fiat” was not flawed by a fallen human nature.

The Lord likewise wants our commitment to Him to be free, deep, pure, and great. Of course, our fallen human nature has diminished the quality of our commitment to the Lord. Nevertheless, when we receive and live out our Baptism, repent of our sins, and grow in holiness, we can commit ourselves to the Lord with pure motives. We can love the Lord unconditionally for Himself, not merely to avoid hell and obtain the happiness of heaven.

May our assent of faith in the Lord be as free, pure, and deep as possible. “Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.”

Prayer: Father, purify my commitment to You and make it of the highest quality.

Promise: "In Him we were chosen." —Eph 1:11

Praise: Alleluia! We, with Mary, have victory in Jesus.

(For a related teaching on Immaculate Heart of Mary, listen to, download or order our AV 19-1 or V-19 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION - One Bread, One Body, 12/08/2024

Sunday, December 8, 2024, Second Sunday of Advent

Baruch 5:1-9
Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11
Psalm 126:1-6
Luke 3:1-6
View Readings

HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION
"Make ready the way of the Lord, clear Him a straight path." —Luke 3:4

Before Christ’s Christmas coming and His Second Coming, we need to make a highway in the desert. This desert highway is both for us (Bar 5:7) and the Lord to use (Lk 3:4). We are to use the highway first to get out of the exile of sin. Then Jesus will come on it to take us home from our exile on earth (see 1 Pt 2:11).

We construct and travel this highway by repentance — deep repentance. By repentance, we fill in the emptiness of sin’s “death valley” and level mountains of pride and inflated egos (see Lk 3:5). As we confess our sins, the Lord makes straight (Lk 3:5) our winding excuses, rationalizations, unrealistic denials, and self-deceptions. The rough, jagged, cutting, harmful edges of our selfish attitudes are made smooth through repentance, forgiveness, and Reconciliation (Lk 3:5).

Make and drive the highway of repentance into Christmas and heaven.

Prayer: Father, keep me on the holy highway (Is 35:8).

Promise: "My prayer is that your love may more and more abound, both in understanding and wealth of experience, so that with a clear conscience and blameless conduct you may learn to value the things that really matter, up to the very day of Christ." —Phil 1:9-10

Praise: Praise Jesus, Emmanuel, "God-with-us" (see Mt 1:23), risen Lord, Savior, and God!

(For a related teaching on Living in Reality, view, download or order our booklet on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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VOICE RECOGNITION - One Bread, One Body, 12/07/2024

Saturday, December 7, 2024, St. Ambrose

Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26
Psalm 147:1-6
Matthew 9:35—10:1, 5-8

View Readings

VOICE RECOGNITION
"From behind, a voice shall sound in your ears: 'This is the way; walk in it.' " —Isaiah 30:21

The Lord Jesus says that an abundance of people will ultimately respond to the Gospel message, but laborers are needed to spread it (Mt 9:37-38). Explaining the meaning of the Word of God is a much-needed ministry. In the book of Nehemiah, numerous Levites explained the meaning of God’s Word to the people (Neh 8:7ff). St. Ambrose, whose feast we celebrate today, did this for St. Augustine. This booklet, One Bread, One Body, aims to make the Word of God come alive for you. Undoubtedly the Lord is calling you to make His Word come alive for someone else.

Will you be a worker for the harvest? (Mt 9:37) To work for the Lord, you must hear and recognize His voice (Jn 10:4, 27). Many sheep are without a shepherd (Mt 9:36). The internet or social media are their shepherds, but those who create social media posts might well be pasturing themselves (see Ez 34:2ff), caring more about making money on “click bait” than about the welfare of those who do the clicking. How will these sheep learn to recognize the voice of the Good Shepherd rather than the voices of those who pasture themselves?

Jesus says: “Do you love Me? Then feed My sheep” (see Jn 21:15-17). God speaks to you so you can speak His words to the sheep. Be still and know that He is God (see Ps 46:11). Hear His voice and speak His words to others. Teach others to recognize Jesus’ voice.

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

Promise: "He will give rain for the seed that you sow in the ground." —Is 30:23

Praise: St. Ambrose, referring to Scripture, wrote: "He who is full, refreshes others."

(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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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BLIND BIND - One Bread, One Body, 12/06/2024

Friday, December 6, 2024, St. Nicholas

Isaiah 29:17-24
Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
Matthew 9:27-31

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BLIND BIND
"As Jesus moved on from there, two blind men came after Him crying out, 'Son of David, have pity on us!' " —Matthew 9:27

What if you went blind right now? How would Christmas be? The Church speaks to us today about blindness. It implies we have been spiritually blinded by sin. If not healed, our spiritual blindness will ruin Christmas since we cannot see Christ, the meaning of Christmas.

The Lord promises through the prophet Isaiah: “Out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see” (Is 29:18). Jesus stretches forth His hand to touch our eyes, so we may recover our sight (Mt 9:30). We can be healed when we admit we need healing. May Jesus not have to say to us what He said to the Pharisees: “ ‘But we see,’ you say, and your sin remains” (Jn 9:41).

When we admit our spiritual blindness, then we must admit its cause, that is, sin. The Lord calls us to confess our sins to one another to find forgiveness and healing (Jas 5:16). Without Advent repentance and Confession, we will have Christmas blindness. Instead of celebrating Christ, the Light of the world, we will be groping in the kingdom of darkness.

Don’t miss out on Christ, Christmas, Light, and Life. Go to Confession during Advent. Be reconciled with God. Cry out (Mt 9:27) for Jesus’ mercy: Lord, “I want to see” (Mk 10:51). “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I’m found, was blind but now I see.”

Prayer: Holy Spirit, convict all who do not admit their spiritual blindness.

Promise: "The lowly will ever find joy in the Lord, and the poor rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. For the tyrant will be no more and the arrogant will have gone." —Is 29:19-20

Praise: Each year on the feast of St. Nicholas, Angela gives presents to each of her four children, and tells them the stories of his generosity and faith.



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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 December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 15, 2024"

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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