THE FUTURE FLOODS - One Bread, One Body, 09/13/2025

Saturday, September 13, 2025, St. John Chrysostom

1 Timothy 1:15-17
Psalm 113:1-7
Luke 6:43-49

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THE FUTURE FLOODS
"He may be likened to the man who, in building a house, dug deeply and laid the foundation on a rock." —Luke 6:48

Our lives are like houses which are about to face the tremendous force of floods. Only the houses with solid foundations will stand (Lk 6:48). We are well founded if we hear and do God’s Word (Lk 6:47). We must lay no “foundation other than the one that has been laid, namely Jesus Christ” (1 Cor 3:11). We must also be founded on the Body of Christ, the Church, which is founded on the apostles and the prophets (Eph 2:20; Rv 21:14).

We build the solid foundation for our lives by giving our lives to Jesus and living our Baptisms fully. We must also be like Jesus and love the Church so much that we give up our lives for her (Eph 5:25). To have a solid foundation, we must know what the bishops, the successors of the apostles, have taught throughout the world over the centuries. Then we are able to be in submission to their authority. We must listen especially to the Pope (see Mt 16:18), who has a prophetic ministry and who, with the bishops, discerns the authenticity of prophecies.

Foundations are usually built years before floods hit. Build the foundation of your life now. Build it to withstand anything (see Mt 7:24-25).

Prayer: Father, the rivers are rising, but by Your grace I am not afraid.

Promise: "You can depend on this as worthy of full acceptance: that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." —1 Tm 1:15

Praise: St. John Chrysostom began reforming his archdiocese by reforming the archbishop's household.

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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GOD’S DOUBLE STANDARD - One Bread, One Body, 09/12/2025

Friday, September 12, 2025, Most Holy Name of Mary

1 Timothy 1:1-2, 12-14
Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 11
Luke 6:39-42

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GOD'S DOUBLE STANDARD
"Because I did not know what I was doing in my unbelief, I have been treated mercifully." —1 Timothy 1:13

Jesus has a double standard in working with people. He is lenient with the unbeliever. He continues to pray: “Forgive them; they do not know what they are doing” (Lk 23:34). “These were enemies of Your servants, doomed to death; yet, while You punished them with such solicitude and pleading, granting time and opportunity to abandon wickedness, with what exactitude You judged Your sons” (Wis 12:20-21).

However, there’s discipline for the believer (Heb 12:6-7). “The slave who knew his master’s wishes but did not prepare to fulfill them will get a severe beating, whereas the one who did not know them and nonetheless deserved to be flogged will get off with fewer stripes. When much has been given a man, much will be required of him” (Lk 12:47-48).

The Lord must be strict with us, His disciples, so we will spread His salvation to the ends of the earth. He must get the plank out of our eyes so we can “see clearly enough to remove the speck” from our brother’s eye (Lk 6:42). “The season of judgment has begun, and begun with God’s own household” (1 Pt 4:17).

Even though the Lord is stricter with believers, now is still the time of mercy. Later, there will not be the combination of mercy and judgment we experience on this earth, but only judgment. The season of mercy will be over. Before it’s too late, repent. You’re first.

Prayer: Father, send the Spirit to motivate me to confess my sins as soon as possible in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Promise: "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, Who has strengthened me, that He has made me His servant and judged me faithful. I was once a blasphemer." —1 Tm 1:12-13

Praise: "My being proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit finds joy in God my Savior" (Lk 1:46-47).



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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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 DISTINCTIVE MARK OF A CHRISTIAN - One Bread, One Body, 09/11/2025

Thursday, September 11, 2025,

Colossians 3:12-17
Psalm 150:1-6
Luke 6:27-38

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THE DISTINCTIVE MARK OF A CHRISTIAN
"To you who hear Me, I say: love your enemies." —Luke 6:27

What if your family was a victim of a terrorist attack? What if someone robbed and beat you? Jesus tells us to treat terrorists, murderers, rapists, and robbers in a certain way. Jesus commands us to:

• love our enemies (Lk 6:27),
• “do good to those who hate” us (Lk 6:27),
• “bless those who curse” us (Lk 6:28),
• “pray for those who maltreat” us (Lk 6:28),
• even remain vulnerable to our enemies (Lk 6:29),
• give to them (Lk 6:30),
• do to them as we would have them do to us (Lk 6:31),
• lend to them “without expecting repayment” (Lk 6:35), and
• be clothed in mercy and forgiveness toward all people, especially our enemies (see Col 3:12-13; Lk 6:36-37).

If we do so, we will heap burning coals of love on our enemies (Rm 12:20; see Lk 15:20ff).

To those not baptized into Jesus, His commands seem unjust, preposterous, and impossible; but Jesus died on the cross for His enemies. He literally practiced what He preached. He taught us to pray that we are forgiven as we forgive our enemies (Mt 6:12), and He promises us grace sufficient to forgive and love our enemies immediately and totally. By Jesus’ grace, receive and perform the miracle of forgiveness and of love for all your enemies.

Prayer: Father, give me a forgiveness and love inexplicable except in the light of Jesus.

Promise: "Over all these virtues put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect. Christ's peace must reign in your hearts." —Col 3:14-15

Praise: Al, a non-Catholic, happened to stop in to a Catholic Church the same evening a Eucharistic procession was occurring. As the monstrance neared the pew where he had sat, an awe came upon him and he dropped to his knees in worship. He converted to Catholicism soon afterward.



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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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW - One Bread, One Body, 09/10/2025

Wednesday, September 10, 2025,

Colossians 3:1-11
Psalm 145:2-3, 10-13
Luke 6:20-26

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OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW
"You must put that aside now...put aside your old self with its past deeds and put on a new man, one who grows in knowledge as he is formed anew in the image of his Creator." —Colossians 3:8, 9-10

Today’s Eucharistic readings address two opposite ways of life. St. Paul calls these two ways the “old self” and the “new self” (see Col 3:9-10). The old self is our life without Jesus, ruled by the world, the flesh, and the devil (see 1 Jn 2:16). This old self lives a lifestyle characterized by anger, malice, insults, lying, evil desires, lust (Col 3:5, 8-9), the desires for pleasure and the things of this world (Lk 6:24-26). The new self is shaped entirely by allowing Jesus to form our actions, thoughts, words, and lifestyle. When we live in the new self, we are set free from sin and set free for service, worship, and evangelization.

Those who live according to the new self are blessed; those who live under the old self have nothing to anticipate but woes (see Lk 6:20-26). In Baptism, our old self died with Christ, drowned in the waters of Baptism. Yet our lives after Baptism sometimes seem like a civil war (see Jas 4:1). We want to live a good and holy life for the Lord, yet we sin (see Rm 7:7-25).

The key is to daily live our Baptism. Each time you bless yourself with holy water, that is, the water of Baptism, renew your baptismal vows and pray: “I am a baptized child of Almighty God! Lord Jesus, drown my old self with You in this holy water. Help me put on the pure, victorious garments of my new self that lives in You. May I live the new life of blessings and not the old life of woes.”

Prayer: Father, "I have been crucified with Christ, and the life I live now is not my own; Christ is living in me" (Gal 2:19-20).

Promise: "Set your heart on what pertains to higher realms where Christ is seated at God's right hand." —Col 3:1

Praise: Lisa made a decision to praise God every day in all circumstances.

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 TWELVE - One Bread, One Body, 09/09/2025

Tuesday, September 9, 2025, St. Peter Claver

Colossians 2:6-15
Psalm 145:1-2, 8-11
Luke 6:12-19

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THE TWELVE
"At daybreak He called His disciples and selected twelve of them to be His apostles." —Luke 6:13

Jesus chose twelve apostles in whom He invested the last three years of His life. We, as followers of Jesus, are also called to invest our lives in not just a nuclear family or a circle of friends, but in a small Christian community. By virtue of our Baptisms, we are called to live as brothers and sisters in Christ. We should be brothers and sisters not only in name but in practice. We are called to devote ourselves “to the apostles’ instruction and the communal life, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42). “The community of believers were of one heart and one mind” (Acts 4:32), and we are called to be the same. “Behold, how good it is, and how pleasant, where brethren dwell at one!” (Ps 133:1) We are not only called to go to church together, work together, and pray together. Our unity is not to be superficial. We are called to Trinitarian unity — to be one as Jesus and the Father are one (Jn 17:21).

The Holy Spirit makes us one (Eph 4:3). Repent! Stir into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit (2 Tm 1:6-7). In obedience to the Lord, accept twelve disciples with whom the Lord is calling you to share your life. Be one. Be holy. Be Christian.

Prayer: Father, free me to live my baptismal brotherhood or sisterhood to the fullest.

Promise: "Continue, therefore, to live in Christ Jesus the Lord, in the spirit in which you received Him." —Col 2:6

Praise: St. Peter Claver spent the final forty-four years of his life serving slaves in Colombia who had been kidnapped from Africa. He called himself the "slave of the slaves forever."

(For more teaching on this subject, view, download or order our booklet Introduction to Small Christian Communities 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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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NOT ON THE MAP - One Bread, One Body, 09/08/2025

Monday, September 8, 2025, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Micah 5:1-4 or Psalm 13:6
Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23
Romans 8:28-30

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NOT ON THE MAP
"But you, Bethlehem-Ephrathah, too small to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for Me One Who is to be Ruler in Israel." —Micah 5:1

The “little town” of Bethlehem was too small to be on the map of the tribe of Judah, even though it lay within Judah’s borders. God, however, has a different map, and Bethlehem was big in His plans, for it would be the birthplace of the Ruler of Israel and Savior of the world (Lk 2:4).

Mary was a humble teenage girl from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. Nazareth was not well regarded (see Jn 1:46) and neither was the region of Galilee (see Jn 7:52; Mt 4:15). Nazareth and Galilee were not on the spiritual map of the Jews, nor was a teenage virgin girl from that town. Yet that which is last in the eyes of the world would become first in the eyes of God (see Mt 20:16). Mary said “Yes” to the Lord and became the mother of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. So the young girl in the town too small for the map bore a Son Whose greatness reached beyond all four corners of the world (see Mi 5:3).

Perhaps you are insignificant in the eyes of the world. Nonetheless, you are on God’s map. You are precious in His sight and your name is carved upon His hands (Is 49:16). He will do great things through your obedient, faithful service to Him (see Jn 14:12). Therefore, “go out now and take your place” on God’s map (see Acts 5:20).

Prayer: Father, You are in the center of my map. Let it be done to me according to Your will.

Promise: "His greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth; He shall be Peace." —Mi 5:3-4

Praise: Alleluia! Jesus became man in the womb of Mary (see Lk 1:31-32). Praise the Lord for His loving-kindness!

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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IT’S ALL YOURS, LORD - One Bread, One Body, 09/07/2025

Sunday, September 7, 2025, 23rd Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 9:13-18
Philemon 9-10, 12-17
Psalm 90:3-6, 12-17
Luke 14:25-33
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IT'S ALL YOURS, LORD
"None of you can be My disciple if he does not renounce all his possessions." —Luke 14:33

The author of the book of Wisdom writes that “the corruptible body burdens the soul, and the earthen shelter weighs down the mind that has many concerns” (Wis 9:15). Whether referring to home or body (see 2 Cor 5:4), the earthen shelter is a possession which weighs down our minds, and from which we struggle to be detached. Jesus says we are to renounce our possessions to be His disciple (Lk 14:33). That doesn’t necessarily mean we sell our house, but that we are to be detached from it. To bear fruit as Jesus’ disciples, we must be detached from our possessions (Mk 4:19-20; Lk 14:33).

This may, for some, actually mean selling some of our possessions. For others, it means using our possessions for God’s kingdom. Jesus declared that no one can serve both God and earthly things, that is, mammon. If we focus on possessions, we will eventually not serve God and even despise Him (Mt 6:24). In today’s second reading, St. Paul asked Philemon to renounce his claim on his slave Onesimus, his “possession” (Phlm 10ff). Paul said that by releasing Onesimus, Philemon would actually “possess him forever” as more than a slave, as a brother in the Lord (Phlm 15).

Be a true disciple of Jesus. Renounce all your possessions so that Christ alone might be your wealth (Phil 3:8).

Prayer: Jesus, more than anything I want to be Your disciple. With Your all-consuming love, melt away anything in my life that is an obstacle to following You completely.

Promise: "Anyone who does not take up his cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple." —Lk 14:27

Praise: Praise Jesus, Who was obedient unto death and was raised up on the third day (Lk 24:46).

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(The Good News is just a phone call away. Try our Bible telephone line, 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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 - One Bread, One Body, 09/06/2025

Saturday, September 6, 2025,

Colossians 1:21-23
Psalm 54:3-4, 6, 8
Luke 6:1-5

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JESUS
"But now Christ has achieved reconciliation for you."—Colossians 1:22

Without Jesus, we would die doomed to alienation from God, other people, the world, and ourselves (Col 1:21). Without Jesus, we would nourish hostility in our hearts (Col 1:21). “We went our way in malice and envy, hateful ourselves and hating one another” (Ti 3:3). We were dead because of our sins (Eph 2:1). We “gave allegiance to the present age and to the prince of the air, that spirit who is even now at work among the rebellious. All of us were once of their company; we lived at the level of the flesh, following every whim and fancy, and so by nature deserved God’s wrath like the rest. But God is rich in mercy; because of His great love for us He brought us to life with Christ” (Eph 2:2-5). “There is no condemnation now for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rm 8:1).

Jesus makes all the difference in the world and after the world. Jesus is the only Way to the Father (Jn 14:6). He is the Truth and the Life (Jn 14:6). Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life (Jn 11:25). Jesus is the “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Rv 19:16). Jesus is God (see Jn 20:28).

Therefore:

• give your whole life to Jesus,
• worship Jesus,
• renew your Baptism,
• pray always for all people to live for Jesus,
• tell everyone about Jesus,
• make disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19), and
• love Jesus.

Prayer: "To the One seated on the throne, and to the Lamb, be praise and honor, glory and might, forever and ever!" (Rv 5:13)

Promise: "The Son of Man is Lord even of the sabbath." —Lk 6:5

Praise: Studying the writings of the early Church Fathers led Warren, a staunch Protestant, to deeply desire the Eucharist. He converted to the Catholic faith soon afterward.



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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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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FAST FORWARD - One Bread, One Body, 09/05/2025

Friday, September 5, 2025, St. Teresa of Calcutta

Colossians 1:15-20
Psalm 100:1-5
Luke 5:33-39

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FAST FORWARD
"When the days come that the Groom is removed from their midst, they will surely fast in those days." —Luke 5:35

The word “fast” has two meanings. One refers to limiting our eating and the other indicates speed. Possibly God intends these two meanings to come together. Biblically, when God calls His people to fast, He is fast bringing His work to fulfillment in a certain area.

When Jesus fasted for forty days and nights, His public ministry and our salvation were fast approaching (Mt 4:2). When the early Church needed to raise up leaders fast, they fasted (Acts 13:3). When the Ninevites had only forty days to prevent their destruction, they had to do something fast, so they fasted (Jon 3:5). When Ahab was doomed to destruction and he needed a way out fast, he fasted (1 Kgs 21:27). When the enemy was about to overrun Jehoshaphat’s army, God called for a fast (2 Chr 20:3). When the Jews were on the verge of genocide, Esther fasted (Est 4:16). When something is yet to be done to deliver a person from certain demons, Jesus calls us to fast (Mt 17:21, NAB). When we must be freed fast, fast (see Is 58:6).

Is there anything in your life going slowly that needs to go fast? Seek God’s will. He may be calling you to go faster by fasting.

Prayer: Jesus, from this day forward give me Your mind and heart for fasting.

Promise: "It pleased God to make absolute fullness reside in [Jesus] and, by means of Him, to reconcile everything in His person, making peace through the blood of His cross." —Col 1:19-20

Praise: St. Teresa of Calcutta, known as Mother Teresa, was intensely devoted to relieving the thirst of the crucified Jesus (see Jn 19:28), particularly through works of mercy for the poor.

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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FAST FORWARD - One Bread, One Body, 09/05/2025

Friday, September 5, 2025, St. Teresa of Calcutta

Colossians 1:15-20
Psalm 100:1-5
Luke 5:33-39

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FAST FORWARD
"When the days come that the Groom is removed from their midst, they will surely fast in those days." —Luke 5:35

The word “fast” has two meanings. One refers to limiting our eating and the other indicates speed. Possibly God intends these two meanings to come together. Biblically, when God calls His people to fast, He is fast bringing His work to fulfillment in a certain area.

When Jesus fasted for forty days and nights, His public ministry and our salvation were fast approaching (Mt 4:2). When the early Church needed to raise up leaders fast, they fasted (Acts 13:3). When the Ninevites had only forty days to prevent their destruction, they had to do something fast, so they fasted (Jon 3:5). When Ahab was doomed to destruction and he needed a way out fast, he fasted (1 Kgs 21:27). When the enemy was about to overrun Jehoshaphat’s army, God called for a fast (2 Chr 20:3). When the Jews were on the verge of genocide, Esther fasted (Est 4:16). When something is yet to be done to deliver a person from certain demons, Jesus calls us to fast (Mt 17:21, NAB). When we must be freed fast, fast (see Is 58:6).

Is there anything in your life going slowly that needs to go fast? Seek God’s will. He may be calling you to go faster by fasting.

Prayer: Jesus, from this day forward give me Your mind and heart for fasting.

Promise: "It pleased God to make absolute fullness reside in [Jesus] and, by means of Him, to reconcile everything in His person, making peace through the blood of His cross." —Col 1:19-20

Praise: St. Teresa of Calcutta, known as Mother Teresa, was intensely devoted to relieving the thirst of the crucified Jesus (see Jn 19:28), particularly through works of mercy for the poor.

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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MORE AND MORE FRUIT - One Bread, One Body, 09/04/2025

Thursday, September 4, 2025,

Colossians 1:9-14
Psalm 98:2-6
Luke 5:1-11

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MORE AND MORE FRUIT
"They caught such a great number of fish that their nets were at the breaking point." —Luke 5:6

Spiritual fruitfulness is based on obeying Jesus, especially when He commands us to do something beyond our human understanding. When we obey the Lord for no reason other than that He said so, we will see the glory of God (see Lk 5:5).

When we are spiritually fruitful, a war explodes. The Lord is calling us to overcome fear, repent of sin, and do greater things than we, or even Jesus, have done before (Jn 14:12). In contrast, the evil one, because we have become a threat to him, rages at us (see Rv 12:12). In this war, if we die to ourselves (Jn 12:24) and live in Jesus (Jn 15:5), we bear abundant and even greater fruit. This dynamic continues so that we become more and more fruitful and holy as we resist the temptations of the evil one. This is the pattern we see in the early Church as described in Acts of the Apostles.

Obey Jesus; overcome evil; die to self; live in Him. Grow from grace to grace (see Jn 1:16) and “from glory to glory” (2 Cor 3:18).

Prayer: Father, may I bear increasingly abundant fruit.

Promise: The Father "rescued us from the power of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son." —Col 1:13

Praise: Lauren prayed to God to enable her to finally conceive and God blessed her with triplets.

(The Holy Spirit will pour out love into your heart if you read the Bible daily. For encouragement, listen to, download or order any or all of these CDs or DVDs: Ignorance of Scriptures is Ignorance of Christ on AV82-1, How to Pray the Bible on AV82-3 or V82, How to Read the Bible on AV46-3 or V46 and/or Principles of Bible Interpretation on AV79-1 or V79 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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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HOPE-CHEST - One Bread, One Body, 09/03/2025

Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Pope St. Gregory the Great

Colossians 1:1-8
Psalm 52:10-11
Luke 4:38-44

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HOPE-CHEST
"...moved as you are by the hope held in store for you in heaven." —Colossians 1:4

How does a Christian keep persevering in the midst of trials and persecutions? Hope. How can we have the courage to face death for the sake of the Gospel? Hope. How can we rejoice even in adversity and consider it a privilege to suffer for Jesus’ sake? Hope. “In hope we were saved” (Rm 8:24).

Contrary to the common saying, hope does not spring eternal in the human breast. The suicides, addictions, and bondage of our society testify that often despair, not hope, resides in the human breast. Lasting hope is not humanly possible. It must be given by God.

“Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, He Who in His great mercy gave us new birth; a birth unto hope which draws its life from the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Pt 1:3). “May He enlighten your innermost vision that you may know the great hope to which He has called you” (Eph 1:18). “And this hope will not leave us disappointed, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us” (Rm 5:5). “So may God, the Source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that through the power of the Holy Spirit you may have hope in abundance” (Rm 15:13).

Prayer: Father, may all my afflictions lead to endurance, tested virtue, and then hope (Jas 1:2-4; Rm 5:3-5).

Promise: "May God our Father give you grace and peace." —Col 1:2

Praise: Pope St. Gregory the Great was inspired by the Holy Spirit to begin the devotion of the Stations of the Cross.

(Grow closer to Jesus through the retreat on The Gospel of John, Oct. 17-19. Call 513-373-2397 or see our website www.presentationministries.com to register.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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BODY BUILD - One Bread, One Body, 09/02/2025

Tuesday, September 2, 2025,

1 Thessalonians 5:1-6, 9-11
Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
Luke 4:31-37

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BODY BUILD
"Build one another up." —1 Thessalonians 5:11, RSV-CE

I am attending morning Mass in an older church building. Laborers are repairing the roof, and the steady pounding of their hammers makes it difficult to hear the lector as he proclaims today’s first reading. Then the lector proclaimed the phrase “build one another up” (see 1 Thes 5:11, RSV-CE). It was easy to make the connection between the physical repairs taking place to build up the church structure, and the work necessary to build up the Church, the Body of Christ.

This church building is strong and solid. Nonetheless, every parish church building needs maintenance, no matter how strong it is. Likewise, we members of the Church must maintain the “living stones” of the Church (1 Pt 2:5) by building one another up (1 Thes 5:11; cf Eph 4:29). Even the strongest members of the Body of Christ need encouragement and upbuilding.

Building one another up can be inconvenient, disruptive, and noisy. For example, Jesus built up the Body of Christ in Capernaum by driving out a demon during a service in the synagogue (Lk 4:33ff). The disruption in that service would dwarf the cacophony of the hammering during today’s Mass. The inconvenience and disruption must be overridden by love, for above all it is love that upbuilds (1 Cor 8:1). Build up the Body of Christ through acts of love and charity.

We are God’s building (1 Cor 3:9), so be a body builder and “build one another up” (1 Thes 5:11, RSV-CE).

Prayer: Father, give me a greater concern for Your Body than I have for my own. May I love my fellow Christians with Your love.

Promise: "God has not destined us for wrath but for acquiring salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ." —1 Thes 5:9

Praise: Fr. Jeff proclaimed the Resurrection in three languages as he celebrated the Easter services in the diverse parishes he served.

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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WHO WILL SPREAD THE GOSPEL? - One Bread, One Body, 09/01/2025

Monday, September 1, 2025,

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Psalm 96:1, 3-5, 11, 13
Luke 4:16-30

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WHO WILL SPREAD THE GOSPEL?
"At these words, the whole audience in the synagogue was filled with indignation. They rose up and expelled Him from the town." —Luke 4:28-29

When Jesus proclaimed the Gospel, there were people who were attracted to the Gospel message and others who were repulsed by it. Likewise, when we proclaim the Gospel clearly, it will be received with gladness and be vigorously opposed. The Gospel leads to conversion and salvation (Rm 1:16). It can also lead to persecution of those who proclaim and live it (2 Tm 3:12).

Yes, the Gospel “will be opposed” (see Lk 2:34). Yes, we who proclaim and spread the Gospel may be rejected and possibly persecuted. However, some people will listen to the message of the Gospel, accept it, and be converted to faith. The Word of God will grow of itself, like the seed the farmer sowed in the soil (Mk 4:27-29). The Word of God cannot be chained or suppressed (2 Tm 2:9). It always brings a positive result (Is 55:11).

Our challenge is to make the Gospel available to people, despite the possibility of rejection and persecution. Jesus says: “If you love Me, feed My sheep” (see Jn 21:15-17). Will you love Jesus enough to spread the Gospel message to a world famished for it? (Am 8:11)

Prayer: Father, "here I am...send me" (Is 6:8) to speak Your Word to a world that is starving for Your Good News.

Promise: "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, God will bring forth with Him from the dead those also who have fallen asleep believing in Him." —1 Thes 4:14

Praise: John still vividly recalls the day when God opened his mind to a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, and he loves to share that witness with others.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(At our retreat for the divorced and separated, Sept. 12-14, find your place and purpose in the church with others who understand and can guide you. Call 513-373-2397 or see our website www.presentationministries.com to register.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 LOWDOWN ON HUMILITY - One Bread, One Body, 08/31/2025

Sunday, August 31, 2025, 22nd Sunday Ordinary Time

Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29
Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24
Psalm 68:4-7, 10-11
Luke 14:1, 7-14
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THE LOWDOWN ON HUMILITY
"Conduct your affairs with humility." —Sirach 3:17

Jesus is “humble of heart” (Mt 11:29), continually going to a lower place. He left the royal bliss of heaven to suffer rejection, even though He created the world. “To His own He came, yet His own did not accept Him” (Jn 1:11). He was born in a humble stable, not a royal palace. Though sinless, He accepted a baptism of repentance (Mt 3:13-17). Out of love for us, Jesus even “became sin” (see 2 Cor 5:21) and “a curse for us” (Gal 3:13). Jesus chose as His apostles lowly, uneducated laborers, “those who count for nothing” (1 Cor 1:28). If there was a way to go lower, Jesus kept finding it.

Even in a moment of public triumph, Jesus remained humble, entering Jerusalem on a donkey rather than a mighty stallion (Mt 21:5; Zec 9:9). Though Master, Jesus performed the lowly work of a servant by washing the feet of His apostles (Jn 13:4-5). When accused, He did not defend Himself, but let Himself be condemned without opening His mouth in self-defense (Mt 26:63; Is 53:7). Then He endured “the lowest place” (Lk 14:10), just so we might possibly choose to love Him. He humbled Himself even to a humiliating, public death reserved for criminals and slaves (Phil 2:7-8).

“God is love” (1 Jn 4:8, 16). He will take the very lowest place if that’s what it takes to save us (see Ps 139:8). We can wander to the farthest place from God, and paradoxically, He is there to rescue us, even though we might reject or ignore Him (see Lk 15:4). Come to Jesus and beg Him, “Jesus, gentle and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Thine” (see Mt 11:28-29).

Prayer: Father, take away not only my sins, but also my pride. May I humble myself daily in Your sight (1 Pt 5:6).

Promise: "Humble yourself the more, the greater you are, and you will find favor with God." —Sir 3:18

Praise: Praise Jesus, Who humbled Himself and left the glory of heaven so that we could be exalted and live with Him forever.

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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“COME, SHARE YOUR MASTER’S JOY!” (Mt 25:21, 23) - One Bread, One Body, 08/30/2025

Saturday, August 30, 2025,

1 Thessalonians 4:9-11
Psalm 98:1, 7-9
Matthew 25:14-30

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"COME, SHARE YOUR MASTER'S JOY!" (Mt 25:21, 23)
"Then He went away." —Matthew 25:15

Suppose you have five children, but you serve the Lord in several ministries. Jesus is pleased with you. To reward you, He says: “You have five kids? Here, I’ll give you five more. Come, share your Master’s joy!” (see Lk 19:18-19; Mt 25:21)

Perhaps you are involved in two ministries, and the power of the Lord shines through your service. Jesus is pleased with you. To reward you, He says: “You did well in these two ministries. I am calling you to work in two additional ministries. Come, share your Master’s joy!” (see Lk 19:18-19; Mt 25:23)

Jesus gives you more responsibility, and then He seemingly goes away (see Mt 25:15), apparently leaving you with the work and without His presence (Lk 19:12; Acts 1:9). Some saints have experienced this isolation, yet persevered in serving the Lord faithfully. Jesus asks us to be faithful, even if it seems that He has gone away. He expects us “to stay with this task whether convenient or inconvenient” (2 Tm 4:2). Sometimes it can seem as if the Lord is like the Egyptians, who demanded that the Hebrew slaves not only produce their daily share of bricks but gather their own straw also (see Ex 5:7).

However, Jesus gives us the secret to avoiding heavy responsibilities “out of fear” (Mt 25:25). The secret is: “Come, share your Master’s joy!” (Mt 25:21, 23) Come to Jesus in the Eucharist, daily if possible, and receive His joy. Come to Him in Eucharistic Adoration and frequent prayer. Jesus’ joy cannot be taken away from you (Jn 16:22). We must fix our eyes on Jesus (Heb 3:1; 12:2), not on the responsibilities that come with serving Him. “Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again. Rejoice!” (Phil 4:4)

Prayer: Jesus, may I never be overwhelmed by anything except Your love and blessings (see Dt 28:2).

Promise: "We exhort you to even greater progress." —1 Thes 4:10

Praise: Beth's constant prayer is "Praise the Lord!"

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 GROWN-UPS - One Bread, One Body, 08/29/2025

Friday, August 29, 2025, Martyrdom of St. John the Baptizer

1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 10-12
Mark 6:17-29

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THE GROWN-UPS
"John had told Herod: 'It is not right for you to live with your brother's wife.' " —Mark 6:18

Today we badly need people like St. John the Baptizer (see Mk 6:17ff). We need courageous men and women who will speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15) and stand up for purity. This requires mature Christians, not “infants in Christ” (1 Cor 3:1) “tossed here and there, carried about by every wind of doctrine that originates in human trickery and skill in proposing error” (Eph 4:14).

How mature are you in the Christian life? Among the many signs of maturity are the following:

• an awareness of being called by God (see 1 Cor 1:1, 2). Do you see life as being many integrated callings from God?
• a deepening desire for holiness (see 1 Cor 1:2). Do you hunger and thirst for righteousness and holiness more than for pleasure or anything else? (see Mt 5:6)
• an attitude of gratitude (see 1 Cor 1:4). Do you continually thank God always and for everything? (Eph 5:20)
• a hopeful expectation of the day of the Lord (1 Cor 1:7; Mt 24:42), when Jesus will return and all will be judged.

Using these four guidelines, check your maturity level. Thank the Lord for the maturity you have. Repent of not being more mature. Ask the Holy Spirit to make you holy, that is, “fully mature and lacking in nothing” (Jas 1:4).

Life is challenging. The Lord has an astounding plan for your life. Satan hates you and is trying to drag you into hell. You are going to face tremendous difficulties. You will need all the maturity you can get. Grow fast and deep in maturity.

Prayer: Father, I repent of stunting my growth through selfishness.

Promise: "The Lord loves those that hate evil; He guards the lives of His faithful ones." —Ps 97:10

Praise: St. John the Baptizer told the truth, and the truth set him free from fear of failure and death (see Jn 8:32, 36).



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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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 COURAGE TO LIVE ABUNDANTLY - One Bread, One Body, 08/28/2025

Thursday, August 28, 2025, St. Augustine

1 Thessalonians 3:7-13
Psalm 90:3-5, 12-14, 17
Matthew 24:42-51

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THE COURAGE TO LIVE ABUNDANTLY
"What thanks can we give to God for all the joy we feel in His presence because of you?" —1 Thessalonians 3:9

Christians experience much consolation through much distress (1 Thes 3:7). In addition to consolation and distress, Christians feel amazing joy (1 Thes 3:9). They also “overflow with love for one another and for all” (1 Thes 3:12). Life in Christ is exciting, dangerous, and joyful.

All human beings have a natural fear of living abundantly (see Jn 10:10). Life can be so overwhelming and terrifying that we feel compelled to use such defense mechanisms as distracting ourselves or numbing our consciousness. This prevents us from facing life head on. We complain about being bored but are afraid to live the ultimate excitement of letting ourselves “fall into the hands of the living God” (Heb 10:31).

Will you stay cowering in the corner of mere worldly stimulation? Will you waste “what remains of your earthly life on human desires”? (1 Pt 4:2) Have you sold your birthright for a half-life of indulging in petty pleasures? (Gn 25:31ff) Will you stay glued to your electronic devices and merely simulate living?

“Choose life” (Dt 30:19). Don’t be afraid to live. Choose Jesus, “the Way, and the Truth, and the Life” (Jn 14:6).

Prayer: Jesus, may I live the life You died on the cross for me to live.

Promise: "Stay awake, therefore! You cannot know the day your Lord is coming." —Mt 24:42

Praise: St. Augustine praised God, saying: "You called and shouted and burst my deafness. You flashed and shone and scattered my blindness."

(For a related teaching on Risen Life 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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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ARE YOU SPIRITUALLY CONTRACEPTING? - One Bread, One Body, 08/27/2025

Wednesday, August 27, 2025, St. Monica

1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
Psalm 139:7-12
Matthew 23:27-32

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ARE YOU SPIRITUALLY CONTRACEPTING?
"We encouraged and pleaded with you to make your lives worthy of the God Who calls you." —1 Thessalonians 2:12

Jesus came that we might have abundant life (Jn 10:10). God is the God of the living (Lk 20:38). He wants His people to live “upright, just, and irreproachable” lives (1 Thes 2:10). The Lord wants His people to be life-giving and fruitful. In this way, He will add to our numbers daily those being saved (Acts 2:47).

However, we are tempted to be spiritually contraceptive and abortifacient. We can choose to be “like whitewashed tombs, beautiful to look at on the outside but inside full of filth and dead men’s bones” (Mt 23:27). We, like Herod (Mk 6:26ff), can refuse to hear the words of life and can choose to kill the prophets who speak these words (see Mt 23:31-32).

In this culture of death, Jesus, the Life (Jn 11:25; 14:6), challenges us: “I call heaven and earth today to witness against you: I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Choose life” (Dt 30:19). Paradoxically, choose life by choosing to die to self. Abundant life comes from Jesus’ death on the cross (see Mt 16:25). Be crucified with Christ (Gal 2:19). Choose life.

Prayer: Father, may I continually carry about in my body the dying of Jesus so that "the life of Jesus may also be revealed" (2 Cor 4:10).

Promise: "We thank God constantly that in receiving His message from us you took it, not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God at work within you who believe." —1 Thes 2:13

Praise: St. Monica's pagan husband was ill-tempered. She diffused disputes by guarding her tongue. Her love for him led to his conversion to the Lord.

(If you are single for the Lord, come receive direction and prayer at our retreat just for you, Sept. 19-21. Call 513-373-2397 or see our website www.presentationministries.com to register.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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HUMILIATION - One Bread, One Body, 08/26/2025

Tuesday, August 26, 2025,

1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
Psalm 139:1-6
Matthew 23:23-26

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HUMILIATION
"Fresh from the humiliation we had suffered at Philippi — about which you know — we drew courage from our God to preach His good tidings to you in the face of great opposition." —1 Thessalonians 2:2

When we’ve just been humiliated, we tend to focus on ourselves, be unforgiving and resentful, lick our wounds, and/or have a pity party. However, such a time of humiliation can be just the right time to proclaim the Gospel. The humiliation we suffered may have been a defensive maneuver by the devil to try to stop us from receiving an exceptional outpouring of God’s grace. When humiliated, we shouldn’t draw back but charge forward (see Jas 1:2-3).

For example, when St. Paul was humiliated, beaten, dragged from Lystra, and left for dead, he “got up and went back into the town” (Acts 14:19-20). When Sts. Paul and Silas were arrested, stripped, flogged, and had their feet chained to a stake, they did not shut up or shut down but prayed and sang to the Lord (Acts 16:19-25). Before long an earthquake rocked the prison, and Paul and Silas converted the jailer and his family to the Lord (Acts 16:33). After Jesus’ ultimate humiliation on Calvary, He had the ultimate victory of Resurrection from the dead (see Mt 28:5-6).

Humiliation isn’t always a bad sign. It often precedes the greatest works of God in our lives, if we would only respond to God and not the momentary experience of humiliation.

Prayer: Father, by faith may I let You turn my humiliation to the good (Rm 8:28).

Promise: "First cleanse the inside of the cup so that its outside may be clean." —Mt 23:26

Praise: Frank was raised by atheist parents. As a young teenager, he stumbled upon a Catholic television station, something entirely new to him. He began watching Catholic programs when his parents weren't home. As a highschooler, he read the Catechism of the Catholic Church three times. Now he is a Catholic priest.



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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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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 TRIPLE CROWN - One Bread, One Body, 08/25/2025

Monday, August 25, 2025, St. Louis
St. Joseph Calasanz

1 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 8-10
Psalm 149:1-6, 9
Matthew 23:13-22

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THE TRIPLE CROWN
"You are proving your faith, and laboring in love, and showing constancy of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." —1 Thessalonians 1:3

Life in Christ is like a marathon race or a championship fight (2 Tm 4:7). The Christian life is both a joyous celebration (see Phil 4:4) and “a great contest of suffering” (Heb 10:32). To win the victory, we must have faith, hope, and love. By faith, we can move mountains (Mt 17:20). By hope, we can persevere in even the longest marathon (1 Thes 1:3). With love, we can cover “a multitude of sins” (1 Pt 4:8). “Love never fails” (1 Cor 13:8).

If we are to persevere in the Christian life, we must grow in faith, hope, and love. “Faith, then, comes through hearing, and what is heard is the word of Christ” (Rm 10:17). “We know that affliction makes for endurance, and endurance for tested virtue, and tested virtue for hope” (Rm 5:3-4). “The fruit of the Spirit is love” (Gal 5:22). These fruits of the Spirit are often produced by discipline (see Heb 12:11).

Therefore, treasure God’s Word, afflictions, and discipline, and you will live in Christ now and forever.

Prayer: Father, give me ever-increasing faith, hope, and love.

Promise: "The Lord loves His people, and He adorns the lowly with victory. Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy upon their couches; let the high praises of God be in their throats." —Ps 149:4-6

Praise: St. Joseph Calasanz, a highly educated priest, opened a free school for children of the poor.

(For a related teaching on Developing a Deep, Personal Relationship with Jesus listen to, download or order our AV52-1 or DVD 52 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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“KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCKING ON HEAVEN’S DOOR” - One Bread, One Body, 08/24/2025

Sunday, August 24, 2025, 21st Sunday Ordinary Time

Isaiah 66:18-21
Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13
Psalm 117:1-2
Luke 13:22-30
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"KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCKING ON HEAVEN'S DOOR"
"When once the Master of the house has risen to lock the door and you stand outside knocking and saying, 'Sir, open for us,' He will say in reply, 'I do not know where you come from.' " —Luke 13:25

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says that a person will stand knocking on the door to His Kingdom after it is locked. That person will ask the Lord to open the door. The Lord will then say in reply, “I do not know where you come from” (Lk 13:25). Of course, the Lord is omniscient; He knows everything. How do we make sense of this parable?

During your life, Jesus is standing outside your door, quietly but persistently knocking and saying, “Here I stand, knocking at the door” (Rv 3:20). Will you leave Jesus simply standing there knocking, and not let Him into the deepest desires of your being? (see Lk 13:25ff) Let Him into those narrow places in your heart where you won’t let anyone else go. That way, Jesus can “know” you intimately.

If during our lifetime we have blocked the Lord from entering the narrow way into our heart, then we are closed to the narrow doorway of which Jesus speaks (see Mt 7:13-14). We may think the Lord is narrow-minded. But God replies: “The narrowness is in you!...Open wide your hearts” (2 Cor 6:12, 13). If we don’t take the trouble to know Jesus, this explains why He can say “I do not know you” (Mt 25:12). If we persist in keeping our door locked to Jesus during our lifetime, then we should not be surprised when the door is locked to us in the afterlife.

Prayer: Jesus, I wish to know You (Phil 3:10). Grace me to open my narrow places to You, so we can know each other.

Promise: "I come to gather nations of every language; they shall come and see My glory." —Is 66:18

Praise: Praise Jesus, Whose death, Resurrection, and Ascension opened the gates of heaven forevermore! Alleluia!

(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 August 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 8, 2025"

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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