CRUSHING - One Bread, One Body, 07/01/2024

Monday, July 1, 2024 , St. Junipero Serra

Amos 2:6-10, 13-16
Psalm 50:16-23
Matthew 8:18-22

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CRUSHING
"Beware, I will crush you into the ground as a wagon crush when laden with sheaves." —Amos 2:13

The Israelites were in danger of being crushed because of their sins (Am 2:13). Some of the sins they committed were:

• putting money and a comfortable lifestyle above people (see Am 2:6).
• trampling the heads of the weak and forcing “the lowly out of the way” (Am 2:7). (Compare this to abortion.)
• being lustful and therefore idolatrous (see Eph 5:5). Both parents and children were impure (see Am 2:7).
• charging interest on loans (see Am 2:8).
• financing their drinking of alcohol through unjust practices (Am 2:8).

There are striking parallels between the sins of Amos’ time and those of our society. Living a comfortable lifestyle is the main issue on the minds of most people in our culture. We hardly notice our injustices against the poor, weak, and lowly. Impure behavior is a regular occurrence and is either condoned, ignored, or encouraged. Moreover, abortion is commonplace.

We must repent or be crushed (Am 2:13). The Lord wants to forgive and save us, but He won’t force us to accept His love. God does not have a double standard. He is just. He will treat us like Sodom, Gomorrah, or the Israelites of Amos’ time, unless we repent.

Go to Confession as soon as possible. Take responsibility for your part in the sins of our society. Jesus was already crushed for our sins (see Is 53:10). Obey God, so that Satan is crushed instead of you (see Rm 16:20).

Prayer: Father, may I repent and then help others take the sins out of their lives (see Mt 7:5).

Promise: "Teacher, wherever You go I will come after You." —Mt 8:19

Praise: St. Junipero Serra was a Franciscan priest who converted thousands of Native Americans up and down the California coast.



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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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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TWELVE - One Bread, One Body, 06/30/2024

Sunday, June 30, 2024, 13th Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15
Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13
Mark 5:21-43
View Readings

TWELVE
"There was a woman in the area who had been afflicted with a hemorrhage for a dozen years." —Mark 5:25

In the Scriptures, the number twelve signifies fullness. There were “twelve tribes of Israel” (Gn 49:28). Jesus chose “twelve apostles” (Mt 10:2) and made them into the new Israel, the Church. The heavenly city has “twelve courses of stones as its foundation, on which were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb” (Rv 21:14). The woman clothed with the sun in Revelation 12:1 wears “a crown of twelve stars.” This woman, symbolizing Israel, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the Church, is fully victorious over the kingdom of darkness (Rv 12:1-17).

However, in today’s Gospel passage, the number twelve is associated with desperation and dying. The woman in today’s gospel passage suffered twelve years from a hemorrhage (Mk 5:25), the same timeframe that Jairus’ daughter had been alive (Mk 5:42). The hemorrhage made the woman ritually impure, unable to approach communal gatherings such as the meetings held in Jairus’ synagogue (Mk 5:22). After twelve years, the woman was broke and desperate, growing worse (Mk 5:26) and Jairus’ daughter died. Jesus redeemed and fulfilled the twelfth year, bringing both healing and new life.

Is there anything in your life that is dying or worn out? Are you “desperate” to the full? Bring your desperation to Jesus. In Him is “absolute fullness” (Col 1:19). He came “to fulfill” (Mt 5:17), to give you life “to the full” (Jn 10:10). Bring Jesus your emptiness, and let Him fill you.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for coming to fill and to fulfill. I give You my emptiness. Fill me with Yourself. Jesus, I trust in You.

Promise: "God formed man to be imperishable; the image of His own nature He made him." —Wis 2:23

Praise: Praise You, Lord, for loving the world so much as to become one of us. 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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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GETTING BEHIND JESUS - One Bread, One Body, 06/29/2024

Saturday, June 29, 2024, Sts. Peter & Paul

Acts 12:1-11
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18
Psalm 34:2-9
Matthew 16:13-19
View Readings

GETTING BEHIND JESUS
"I have kept the faith." —2 Timothy 4:7

Sts. Peter and Paul, who are foundation stones of the Church (Eph 2:20), were human beings who failed in spectacular fashion. St. Peter was rebuked by Jesus with the words, “Get behind Me, Satan!” (Mt 16:23, RSV-CE) To be so addressed by Jesus is a most stinging rebuke.

Note that Jesus was telling Peter to “get behind” Him. Jesus is the Good Shepherd (Jn 10:11). He “walks in front of [His sheep], and the sheep follow Him” (Jn 10:4). We disciples are to “get behind” Jesus (Mt 16:23, RSV-CE) and follow after Him (Lk 9:23). We must not try to lead Jesus as if He were a sheep rather than a shepherd. Jesus reminded Peter of this after His Resurrection when He told Peter, “Follow Me” (Jn 21:19). Peter took Jesus’ words to heart, repented, and persevered in serving Jesus.

St. Paul persecuted the Church, and through these attacks persecuted Jesus directly (Acts 9:5). Paul later called himself “the worst” of sinners (1 Tm 1:15). Yet Paul repented and persevered in running the Christian race (2 Tm 4:7).

The same Holy Spirit that filled Sts. Peter and Paul also has been given to us. Peter was “filled with the Holy Spirit” at Pentecost (Acts 2:4). Paul accepted Baptism from Ananias and was also “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 9:17-18). Get behind Jesus, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and follow Him.

Prayer: Father, set me free from my chains (Acts 12:7) to receive the Spirit and serve You with perseverance.

Promise: "The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and delivers them." —Ps 34:8

Praise: "The Lord will continue to rescue me from all attempts to do me harm and will bring me safe to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen" (2 Tm 4:18).

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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THE SIGHT FOR SORE EYES - One Bread, One Body, 06/28/2024

Friday, June 28, 2024, St. Irenaeus

2 Kings 25:1-12
Psalm 137:1-6
Matthew 8:1-4

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THE SIGHT FOR SORE EYES
"He had Zedekiah's sons slain before his eyes. Then he blinded Zedekiah." —2 Kings 25:7

Spiritually, many people go blind after seeing the worst sight of their lives. For example, if a husband sees his wife committing adultery, he will naturally be inclined to hate her. If the husband gives in to this hatred, anger, and bitterness instead of turning to the Lord and receiving the miracle of forgiving his wife, the husband will begin to lose his spiritual sight. He will be blinded by the darkness (1 Jn 2:11).

We all have seen things that almost make us not want to see again. When we are in danger of becoming spiritually blinded by sin and the god of the present age (2 Cor 4:4), we must fix our eyes on Jesus, the Beginning and the End of our faith (see Heb 12:2; Rv 22:13). Jesus alone is the “Sight for sore eyes” Who heals us. Jesus alone wipes away every tear from our eyes (Rv 7:17). Jesus alone makes the blind see.

If you have seen such sin and injustice that it seems too painful to see again, “see Jesus crowned with glory and honor because He suffered death” (Heb 2:9). “See, He comes amid the clouds! Every eye shall see Him, even of those who pierced Him” (Rv 1:7). We are blessed to be able to see Jesus in Eucharistic Adoration. “Gaze on the loveliness of the Lord” (Ps 27:4).

Prayer: "Lord...I want to see" (Lk 18:41), so I can see You face to face (1 Cor 13:12).

Promise: "Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him and said, 'I do will it. Be cured.' " —Mt 8:3

Praise: St. Irenaeus was declared to be a Doctor of the Church in 2022. St. Irenaeus, pray for us.

(For a related teaching on Adoration and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, 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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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THREE MONTHS TO PREPARE - One Bread, One Body, 06/27/2024

Thursday, June 27, 2024, St. Cyril of Alexandria

2 Kings 24:8-17
Psalm 79:1-5, 8-9
Matthew 7:21-29

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THREE MONTHS TO PREPARE
"He reigned three months." —2 Kings 24:8

Eighteen-year-old King Jehoiachin only reigned three months as king of Judah. He didn’t use those three months to prepare for an upcoming Babylonian invasion. However, he did have time in those three months to marry at least twice (2 Kgs 24:15) and to do other evil works (2 Kgs 24:9). In those days, kings often married multiple foreign wives to build alliances with neighboring nations, but if that was the case, those marriages did nothing to solidify Jehoiachin’s kingdom. After three months, Babylon attacked Jerusalem, conquered it, and exiled the young king to Babylon (2 Kgs 24:15). The storm came, his kingdom collapsed, and both he and his kingdom were “completely ruined” (Mt 7:27).

On the day of the Lord, people will get married and eat and drink with no concern for the future, but the day of the Lord will suddenly come and bring their plans to ruin (see Mt 24:38ff). How tragic that King Jehoiachin didn’t spend those three months preparing for the storms by building his kingdom on godly principles (see Lk 6:47-48).

This sad story is meant to serve as a warning to each of us. What if your day of reckoning was to come three months from today? If you knew you had three months to live, how would you change your life today? Spend the next three months repenting deeply. Ask the Lord what He would have you change so that your life can be built on rock rather than sand (Mt 7:24-27). “Reform your lives! The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Mt 4:17).

Prayer: Father, I have spent enough of my life on my own pleasures. Give me the grace to spend the rest of my life on what matters to You (1 Pt 4:2-3; Lk 12:21).

Promise: "Anyone who hears My words and puts them into practice is like the wise man who built his house on rock." —Mt 7:24

Praise: St. Cyril, a Doctor of the Church, lived during a period of Church history when several heresies were popular. His writings brought clarity to the doctrines of the Trinity and the Incarnation.

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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LOOK WHAT I FOUND! - One Bread, One Body, 06/26/2024

Wednesday, June 26, 2024,

2 Kings 22:8-13; 23:1-3
Psalm 119:33-37, 40
Matthew 7:15-20

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LOOK WHAT I FOUND!
"I have found the book of the law in the Temple of the Lord." —2 Kings 22:8

How many Christians have a family Bible which hasn’t been opened for years sitting on a coffee table? How many Catholics have a Holy Bible somewhere in the house, but have no idea where it is? How many Bibles are given as gifts to people, but then are never opened, never read, and serve merely to collect dust and cobwebs?

King Josiah commissioned repairs to be made to the Temple, which had been neglected for a long time (2 Kgs 22:3ff). While performing the repairs, the high priest found “the book of the law” (2 Kgs 22:8), the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament. The Old Testament Scriptures were to be readily available in the synagogues and the Temple (see e.g. Lk 4:17), but perhaps had not been opened since the death of the previous good king, Hezekiah. It’s possible that the Torah had not been opened for eighty-five years! (see 2 Chr 32:33—34:8ff)

Today, open a Bible. Spend at least fifteen minutes reading the Word of God. Resolve to read it and heed it each day of the rest of your life (Acts 17:11). Take back the Word of God from the clutches of the dust. Devour it (Jer 15:6) and let it be the joy of your heart.

Prayer: Father, "lead me in the path of Your commands, for in it I delight" (Ps 119:35).

Promise: "Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." —Mt 7:19

Praise: Simon, an agnostic, went to Linda's church in hopes of getting a date with her. To his surprise, the pastor's preaching touched him so deeply that he became a Christian. He also married Linda.

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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“I BELIEVE IN ONE GOD, THE FATHER ALMIGHTY” - One Bread, One Body, 06/25/2024

Tuesday, June 25, 2024,

2 Kings 19:9-11, 14-21, 31-36
Psalm 48:2-4, 10-11
Matthew 7:6, 12-14

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"I BELIEVE IN ONE GOD, THE FATHER ALMIGHTY"
"O Lord, God of Israel, enthroned upon the cherubim! You alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth." —2 Kings 19:15

God is all-powerful, and He shows it. He “made the heavens and the earth” (2 Kgs 19:15). He sent an angel to strike “down one hundred and eighty-five thousand men” who were about to destroy the Israelites (2 Kgs 19:35). God also died on the cross in perfect love and took away the sins of all people who have lived or ever will live. In this way, God made it possible for everyone to have a new nature, to become His child and share in His divine nature (2 Pt 1:4). God ultimately displayed His omnipotence by rising from the dead and promising to raise all those who live for Him. God continues to show His infinite power by turning bread and wine into His Body and Blood, healing the sick, driving out demons, and doing far “more than we ask or imagine” (Eph 3:20). He will finally return in awesome glory, end the world, judge everyone who has ever lived, let those who rejected His love go to hell, and take His disciples to heaven to be happy forever. These are unimaginable displays of power.

The Church teaches: “Nothing is more apt to confirm our faith and hope than holding it fixed in our minds that nothing is impossible with God. Once our reason has grasped the idea of God’s almighty power, it will easily and without any hesitation admit everything that [the Creed] will afterwards propose for us to believe — even if they be great and marvellous things, far above the ordinary laws of nature” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 274). Believe in God’s infinite power. Rejoice and be free forever.

Prayer: Father, make me bold and peaceful because of my faith in Your power and love.

Promise: "Treat others the way you would have them treat you: this sums up the law and the prophets." —Mt 7:12

Praise: Joyce prays the rosary every day to stop abortion.



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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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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CHRISTMAS IN JUNE - One Bread, One Body, 06/24/2024

Monday, June 24, 2024, Birth of St. John the Baptizer

Isaiah 49:1-6
Acts 13:22-26
Psalm 139:1-3, 13-15
Luke 1:57-66, 80
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CHRISTMAS IN JUNE
"This astonished them all." —Luke 1:63

When we hear the name “John the Baptizer,” we should immediately be filled with anticipation. When St. John was born, circumcised, and named, his father was instantly and miraculously able to speak for the first time in nine months (Lk 1:64). Before Jesus’ public ministry, John miraculously inspired thousands of people of all kinds to journey into the desert to be immersed in repentance (see Lk 3:3ff). The awesome archangel St. Gabriel revealed that John would even prepare for Jesus’ final coming by turning “the hearts of fathers to their children” (Lk 1:17; see also Mal 3:23-24). When the name “John the Baptizer” is mentioned, we are on the threshold of a miracle of repentance and conversion.

Therefore, expect:

• to be surprised today,
• planks of sin to be removed from our eyes (Mt 7:5),
• prodigal sons and daughters to return home (see Lk 15:17ff),
• the conversion of enemies of the Church (see Acts 9:3ff), and
• more than we can ask for or imagine (Eph 3:20).

Prayer: Father, give me Christmas in June.

Promise: "I will make you a light to the nations, that My salvation may reach to the ends of the earth." —Is 49:6

Praise: I solemnly assure you, history has not known a man born of woman greater than John the Baptizer. Yet the least born into the Kingdom of God is greater than he" (Mt 11:11).

(To make it a Christmas of a lifetime, read the Bible daily. For encouragement listen to, download or order Ignorance of Scriptures is Ignorance of Christ on CD 82-1 or DVD 82, How to Pray the Bible on CD 82-3 or DVD 82 or How to Read the Bible on CD 46-3 or DVD 46 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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A STORMY RELATIONSHIP - One Bread, One Body, 06/23/2024

Sunday, June 23, 2024, 12th Sunday Ordinary Time

Job 38:1, 8-11
2 Corinthians 5:14-17
Psalm 107:23-26, 28-31
Mark 4:35-41
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A STORMY RELATIONSHIP
"The Lord addressed Job out of the storm." —Job 38:1

You’re in a veritable hurricane of difficulty, and all you can see of Jesus is that He’s asleep. You want to scream, “Jesus, don’t You care?” (see Mk 4:38) However, Jesus “cares for you” (1 Pt 5:7). “Indeed He neither slumbers nor sleeps, [your] Guardian” (Ps 121:4). Since Jesus never sleeps on the job of guarding you, His sleeping in the boat of the Church and of your life must carry another meaning. Possibly, Jesus’ act of sleeping in the boat is yet another case of Him giving us an example (see Jn 13:15).

The disciples, accustomed to the storms of the sea, finally experienced a storm they couldn’t handle. Jesus was in the same storm and the same boat, but was asleep. He had perfect peace in the raging storm. What an Example! (1 Pt 2:21) Facing death, Jesus yawns, arises, and stops the chaos (Mk 4:39).

Jesus has shared His Eucharistic Body (Lk 22:19) and divine nature with us (2 Pt 1:4). He wants to give us His own peace (Jn 20:19). He expects us to follow His example and trust Him in the worst times. This is evident, because instead of comforting His panicked disciples, He challenges them, exclaiming: “Why are you so terrified? Why are you lacking in faith?” (Mk 4:40)

Jesus states that we, His disciples, will undergo storms and trials (Mt 7:25). “It is a test for you, but it should not catch you off guard” (1 Pt 4:12). When Jesus the Good Shepherd judges it to be the proper time, He will lead you from the stormy waters to the still waters (Ps 23:2; Ps 107:30). Trust Him and do not fear (Mk 5:36). Jesus is Lord over all storms.

Prayer: Jesus, You are my Refuge. I will not be afraid (Ps 27:1).

Promise: "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation." —2 Cor 5:17

Praise: Praise Jesus, Whom the winds and waves obey.

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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GOD, THE ATM MACHINE? - One Bread, One Body, 06/22/2024

Saturday, June 22, 2024, St. Paulinus of Nola
Sts. John Fisher & Thomas More

2 Chronicles 24:17-25
Psalm 89:4-5, 29-34
Matthew 6:24-34

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GOD, THE ATM MACHINE?
"Seek first His kingship over you, His way of holiness, and all these things will be given you besides." —Matthew 6:33

Many of us stock our pantry shelves with groceries. We fill our closets with clothes and our bank account with money. In building up stores of food, clothes, and savings, we must be perpetually careful that we don’t overstep the bounds of prudence and make our storehouse our provider rather than God (see Lk 12:16-21).

When we rely on our supplies instead of God, we risk turning God into an ATM machine which we approach only to make a withdrawal when in need. No one has a relationship with an ATM machine. They simply approach the machine impersonally on a transaction basis. No one thanks the ATM machine for dispensing money; no one loves the machine for satisfying a request.

God works on a daily-bread basis (Ex 16:4; Mt 6:11). A big component of this daily-bread provision is the relationship with God which grows daily in intimacy and trust (Mt 6:24-34). To approach God only in time of need would be like a spouse who avoids his or her partner except when the desire for comfort arises. That approach is exploitative and self-centered, rather than self-giving, ever-increasing in love, and constantly present.

Are we allowing the things of the world to displace God as Provider? (see 1 Jn 2:15-17) Trust God alone (see Ps 62:9). Detach yourself from the things of this world (see Phil 3:19). Love the Lord and put your life in His hands.

Prayer: Father, may I have no love for "the things that the world affords" (1 Jn 2:15). I will trust You every day for my needs.

Promise: "You cannot give yourself to God and money." —Mt 6:24

Praise: Minutes before his martyrdom, St. John Fisher opened his Bible at random and read John 17:3: "Eternal life is this: to know You, the only true God, and Him Whom You have sent, Jesus Christ." Exultantly, he praised God for the last time.

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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HIDDEN TREASURES - One Bread, One Body, 06/21/2024

Friday, June 21, 2024, St. Aloysius Gonzaga

2 Kings 11:1-4, 9-18, 20
Psalm 132:11-14, 17-18
Matthew 6:19-23

View Readings

HIDDEN TREASURES
"For six years he remained hidden in the temple of the Lord."—2 Kings 11:3

The child-king of Judah, baby Joash, was “hidden” in safety in the Temple, “concealed” from the murderous queen Athaliah (2 Kgs 11:2-3). This child-king foreshadows Jesus, another Child-King, Who was hidden in Egypt from the murderous King Herod (Mt 2:13ff). Ultimately, Jesus lived for thirty years hidden from the public eye. Jesus is still “hidden,” in the Tabernacle inside a Catholic Church near you. He is hidden in plain sight, available to anyone who seeks Him with open eyes and an open heart.

Jesus speaks of another hidden treasure, buried in a field (Mt 13:44). Heavenly treasures are hidden from view, but revealed to those who search for them. So it is with the heavenly treasures which Jesus urges us to “store up” (Mt 6:20). With them we are rich, but to those in the world, who cannot see spiritual treasures (see 1 Cor 2:14), it seems we have nothing (see 2 Cor 6:10).

The most important Treasure is Jesus Himself. Jesus, our King and our Treasure, is often hidden. However, Jesus is not hidden from us; He is hidden for us. He wants us to seek Him and find Him. The price to find Jesus is expensive; He costs our “all” (Mt 13:44). However, everyone has an “all,” so everyone can afford to make Jesus their Treasure.

When we truly make Jesus our Treasure, that is where our heart is firmly set (Mt 6:21). No one can see our heavenly Treasure, but also no one can separate us from this Treasure (see Rm 8:35-39).

Prayer: Father, thank You for not hiding Jesus from me. Give me the grace to turn "ten times the more to seek Him" (Bar 4:28).

Promise: "Remember, where your Treasure is, there your heart is also." —Mt 6:21

Praise: St. Aloysius wrote: God "invites me to the infinite bliss I have sought so languidly, and promises me this reward for the tears I have so seldom shed.

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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IDENTIFICATION PAPER - One Bread, One Body, 06/20/2024

Thursday, June 20, 2024,

Sirach 48:1-14
Psalm 97:1-7
Matthew 6:7-15

View Readings

IDENTIFICATION PAPER
"How awesome are you, Elijah! Whose glory is equal to yours?" —Sirach 48:4

Elijah was “awesome.” His specialty was bringing down fire from heaven (Sir 48:3). He began the process by which the wicked kingdom of Ahab and Jezebel was destroyed (see Sir 48:6; 1 Kgs 19:15ff). The mighty Elijah appropriately left this earth by being “enveloped in the whirlwind” (Sir 48:12).

We may think that Elijah is “out of our league.” Probably most of us are not often described as “awesome.” However, the Lord describes Elijah as “only a man” like the rest of us (Jas 5:17). In fact, we who are in Christ Jesus are not only like Elijah but greater (Mt 11:11, 14). Moreover, we who believe in Jesus are not only greater than Elijah, but we can do greater works than even Jesus did (Jn 14:12). We who live for Jesus are awesome, chosen, holy, royal, priestly, beloved children of God (see 1 Pt 2:9; 1 Jn 3:1), who even share in God’s divine nature (2 Pt 1:4).

Know yourself; be yourself; be new creations in Jesus (Gal 6:15).

Prayer: Father, "what is man that You should be mindful of him?" (Ps 8:5)

Promise: "Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us the wrong we have done as we forgive those who wrong us." —Mt 6:11-12

Praise: Ron witnessed about Jesus in his job interview. The interviewer accepted Jesus and hired Ron.

(This can be the summer you get serious about knowing the Bible. How to Teach the Bible in the Power of the Holy Spirit will equip you with the tools, information, and blessings to teach the Bible. July 15-18 at the Guadalupe Discipleship Retreat Center. Call 513-373-2397 or www.presentationministries.com.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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AN AUDIENCE OF ONE - One Bread, One Body, 06/19/2024

Wednesday, June 19, 2024, St. Romuald

2 Kings 2:1, 6-14
Psalm 31:20-21, 24
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

View Readings

AN AUDIENCE OF ONE
"When you give alms, for example, do not blow a horn before you in synagogues and streets like hypocrites looking for applause." —Matthew 6:2

Jesus commands us not to display our good works (Mt 6:2ff). If the Lord wants others to know our good deeds, He will let them be “proclaimed from the rooftops” (Lk 12:3). However, we must not praise ourselves. “Let another praise you — not your own mouth; someone else — not your own lips” (Prv 27:2). We live for an audience of One, Almighty God.

Jesus preached the Good News to the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem. Some were swayed by the authority and power of His words as well as the mighty signs He worked (see Mk 1:27; Jn 7:46). “There were many, even among the Sanhedrin, who believed in Him; but they refused to admit it because of the Pharisees, for fear that they might be ejected from the synagogue. They preferred the praise of men to the glory of God” (Jn 12:42-43).

Jesus once said to the Jews: “How can people like you believe, when you accept praise from one another yet do not seek the glory that comes from the One [God]?” (Jn 5:44) “As the crucible tests silver and the furnace gold, so a man is tested by the praise he receives” (Prv 27:21). In addition, a man is likewise tested by the praise he desires. Let us pray that God would change our desires, that we desire that God be praised rather than ourselves.

Prayer: "From the desire of being praised, deliver me, Jesus" (from the Litany of Humility prayer).

Promise: "The Lord keeps those who are constant, but more than requites those who act proudly." —Ps 31:24

Praise: St. Romuald would frequently be reduced to tears by the "boiling, indescribable heat of divine Love."

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU - One Bread, One Body, 06/18/2024

Tuesday, June 18, 2024,

1 Kings 21:17-29
Psalm 51:3-6, 11, 16
Matthew 5:43-48

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DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU
"Pray for your persecutors." —Matthew 5:44

A friend of mine had a boss who made her life difficult, even trying to run her out of a job. She took her frustrations to Confession. The priest advised her to pray for the good of her boss, saying, “It’s hard to hate someone for whom you are praying.” Some time later, when hearing that her boss was to undergo surgery, she approached her boss and offered to pray right then and there. The prayers were welcomed, and helped calm the fears of her boss.

My friend was imitating God the Father, Who sends sunshine and nourishing rain upon both good and wicked people (Mt 5:45). She also imitated the Lord Jesus, Who laid down His life for those who hurt and hated Him (see Rm 5:8, 10). “If you love those who love you, what merit is there in that? Do not tax collectors do as much?” (Mt 5:46) Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan to teach us how to do good to those who actively hate us (see Lk 10:30-37).

Loving and blessing enemies is the litmus test of a disciple of Jesus Christ. “This will prove that you are [children] of your heavenly Father” (Mt 5:45). “Love your enemy...You will rightly be called [children] of the Most High, since He Himself is good to the ungrateful and the wicked” (Lk 6:35).

Prayer: Father, open wide my heart to love as Jesus loves.

Promise: "You must be made perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect." —Mt 5:48

Praise: Jerry was healed of a broken leg overnight when his daughter prayed for him.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(For a related teaching on Divine Love, listen to, download or order our CD 52-3 or DVD 52 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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NOT FOR SALE - One Bread, One Body, 06/17/2024

Monday, June 17, 2024,

1 Kings 21:1-16
Psalm 5:2-7
Matthew 5:38-42

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NOT FOR SALE
" 'The Lord forbid,' Naboth answered him, 'that I should give you my ancestral heritage.' " —1 Kings 21:3

It was unthinkable for Naboth to give up his ancestral heritage (see Nm 36:7). The land upon which his garden lay belonged to his tribe, and would pass on to his children. Naboth could not sell his vineyard according to the law of Moses (see Lv 25:23).

An Israelite delighted in his heritage (see Jer 3:19). The Promised Land was not for sale, just like Esau’s birthright should not have been eligible for sale to Jacob (Gn 25:31-33). Naboth was correct in not selling his ancestral heritage to the king. Ahab was not a holy, law-abiding king.

We are the Lord’s heritage. Additionally, the Lord has blessed us with a spiritual heritage, an inheritance of His fatherly kingdom. This heritage is precious, holy, and glorious. Often we are tempted to sell our heritage. A person is pressured to have sex outside of marriage, to sell their holy body. A person is tempted to defile their body, their heritage, by taking drugs, alcohol, or caving in to ungodly peer pressure. A person steals or cheats and treats the heritage as a child of God as something “pointless” (Gal 2:20).

Our spiritual heritage is not for sale. Naboth stood firm in the law of the Lord. May we do the same when tempted to abandon our spiritual heritage.

Prayer: Father, I trust in Your providence. Help me hold fast to righteousness.

Promise: "To You I pray, O Lord, at dawn You hear my voice." —Ps 5:3-4

Praise: Even though she was constrained by being homebound, Isabel used her situation as an opportunity to intercede for many.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Intimacy with God is a retreat July 1-3 that focuses on the Sacraments and the joy that flows from them. Deepen your understanding of these mysteries. Call 513-373-2397 or see 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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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WITHER-PROOF - One Bread, One Body, 06/16/2024

Sunday, June 16, 2024, 11th Sunday Ordinary Time

Ezekiel 17:22-24
2 Corinthians 5:6-10
Psalm 92:2-3, 13-16
Mark 4:26-34
View Readings

WITHER-PROOF
"I, the Lord...wither up the green tree, and make the withered tree bloom." —Ezekiel 17:24

Once Jesus looked for fruit on a fig tree. The tree had no fruit, only leaves. Jesus cursed that fig tree and it “withered up instantly” to its roots (Mt 21:19; Mk 11:20). It didn’t bear fruit, for it was not yet the season for figs (Mk 11:13). This could be Jesus’ way of indicating that the kingdom of God was now at hand. The time of Jesus’ visitation came (Lk 19:44), and there was no fruit to be found after “three years” of ministry (see Lk 13:6-9).

In the natural world, some seasons are for bearing fruit and others for being dormant. In the kingdom of God, however, we are to bear fruit “in season and out of season” (2 Tm 4:2, RSV-CE). In God’s kingdom, the trees bear fruit every month of the year (Rv 22:2); there is no off-season.

We may be weak and tiny, yet the Lord can make us bloom “and bear fruit” for His Kingdom (Ez 17:23). Though we may be old and “withered,” He will make “the withered tree bloom” (Ez 17:24). Jesus heals the withered (see Lk 6:6).

Rooted in the Word of God, we will be a tree planted by streams of water, yielding constant fruit without withering (Ps 1:3, RSV-CE; see also Ez 47:12, RSV-CE). We will bear fruit even in old age when our bodies would normally wither (Ps 92:15; Is 40:29-31).

A time will come when we must bear fruit (see Lk 13:9; Jn 15:2-6). If we bear no fruit, we will be “like a withered, rejected branch, picked up to be thrown in the fire and burnt” (Jn 15:6). Be wither-proof. Stay rooted in Jesus.

Prayer: Father, give me such a hunger for Your Word that I will become wither-proof and bear the abundant fruit You seek.

Promise: "We walk by faith, not by sight." —2 Cor 5:7

Praise: Alleluia! Jesus will come again in glory. Praise be to Jesus!

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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PLOW-SHARES - One Bread, One Body, 06/15/2024

Saturday, June 15, 2024,

1 Kings 19:19-21
Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-10
Matthew 5:33-37

View Readings

PLOW-SHARES
"Elijah set out, and came upon Elisha, son of Shaphat, as he was plowing." —1 Kings 19:19

Elijah called Elisha to be his disciple as Elisha was plowing. Jesus used this as a model of discipleship. He said: “Whoever puts his hand to the plow but keeps looking back is unfit for the reign of God” (Lk 9:62). Disciples of Jesus are like farmers plowing. Discipleship is hard work. Disciples break up ground — first of all the ground of their own hardened hearts (see Ps 95:8). Disciples are often only beginning the work that will result in a harvest (see 1 Cor 3:6-7). Disciples must leave behind their former way of life (see 1 Kgs 19:20). They must burn their bridges behind them (see 1 Kgs 19:21). Disciples must subordinate even their family relationships to the ultimate relationship, the relationship with their Master, Jesus (see 1 Kgs 19:21).

When we were baptized and renewed our baptismal promises, we decided to be disciples of Jesus. However, many baptized people have been uninformed or misinformed about the requirements of being disciples of Jesus. Others have refused to be Jesus’ disciples in refusing to deny themselves and take up their crosses daily (Lk 9:23). They want to be Christians without being Jesus’ disciples. They hope that being nice, good, church-going, prayerful, or law-abiding will be an acceptable substitute for discipleship. Nevertheless, Jesus insists that we be His disciples and make disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19).

Prayer: Jesus, Master, I am Yours. May I make disciples who disciple many others.

Promise: "Say, 'Yes' when you mean 'Yes' and 'No' when you mean 'No'. Anything beyond that is from the evil one." —Mt 5:37

Praise: Bill, a Bible teacher, suffered a stroke and loss of vision while driving. In His mercy, Jesus did not allow this to occur until just after he and his wife had exited the interstate. Jesus protected them from injury.



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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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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THE WHISPERING WIND - One Bread, One Body, 06/14/2024

Friday, June 14, 2024,

1 Kings 19:9, 11-16
Psalm 27:7-9, 13-14
Matthew 5:27-32

View Readings

THE WHISPERING WIND
"After the earthquake there was fire — but the Lord was not in the fire. After the fire there was a tiny whispering sound." —1 Kings 19:12

Less than one month ago, we had a new Pentecost. The Lord now sends us to give Pentecost to a desperate world. The Holy Spirit is whispering to us. He is telling us to anoint and make disciples of certain people (see 1 Kgs 19:15-16), who will anoint and make disciples of others. In this way, we will obey the Lord’s command to make disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19). Through these disciples, the Holy Spirit will cover the earth with new Pentecosts and thereby renew the face of the earth (Ps 104:30).

You have the Holy Spirit because you are baptized and confirmed. You have been renewed in the Spirit because you have had a new Pentecost. After the fire of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit is whispering to you. Satan is trying to submerge the Spirit’s whispers by sending storms of sin, pride, selfishness, unforgiveness, confusion, and fear. However, you can still hear the Spirit whisper if you repent, love, and stir into flame the gift of the Spirit (2 Tm 1:6-7). Darkness is covering the abyss of this culture of death, but the Spirit is whispering over the waters (see Gn 1:2). Let the Spirit whisper into your ear.

Prayer: Father, open my ear.

Promise: "I believe that I shall see the bounty of the Lord in the land of the living." —Ps 27:13

Praise: Joan read the Bible regularly and came to understand God's teaching on forgiveness. She put the word into practice (Jn 13:17) by giving food and drink to the person who slandered her.

(Let us help you keep Christ in your summer. Our Family Vacation with the Lord is held June 17-21. Mornings have teachings and projects; afternoons are free for other activities. Call 513-373-2397 or see www.presentationministries.com for details.)

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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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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QUICK - One Bread, One Body, 06/13/2024

Thursday, June 13, 2024, St. Anthony of Padua

1 Kings 18:41-46
Psalm 65:10-13
Matthew 5:20-26

View Readings

QUICK
"Lose no time; settle with your opponent while on your way to court with him." —Matthew 5:25

In our fast-paced culture, we are very interested in quickness — quick service, quick relief, quick loans, etc. The Lord is also interested in quickness, but in other ways. He demands quick reconciliation (Mt 5:25), offers quick healings, and expects quick obedience. However, we are often slow of heart to believe (Lk 24:25), dragging our heels, holding our grudges, grinding our axes, licking our wounds, or involved in other delaying tactics. If we were only quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (Jas 1:19) instead of just the opposite! If only we were quick as the Lord is quick and slow as He is slow instead of being warped by the ways of the world! (see 2 Pt 3:9)

Let’s begin to restore God’s timing and rhythm to our lives by accepting the grace to forgive seventy times seven times immediately (see Mt 18:22). Then let’s go to Confession and repent of being slow to obey, that is, of being disobedient. If we quickly obey Dr. Jesus’ orders, we may find that our healings fit more the pattern we see in the New Testament.

Next, let’s make Sunday truly a day of rest when we slow down our speech, anger, and lifestyles. Let’s quiet down as we slow down so that we can respond to the quickening of God’s grace in us.

Prayer: Father, slow me down to speed me up.

Promise: "The hand of the Lord was on Elijah." —1 Kgs 18:46

Praise: St. Anthony once preached in a town which refused to listen to God's Word. He then told the townspeople that their fish would receive the Word better than they. As he preached at the riverbank, a great crowd of fish gathered, rose to the surface of the water, and listened to God's Word. The townspeople repented and were converted.

(For a related teaching on Keep Holy the Lord's Day, view, download or order leaflet or listen to, download or order our CD 45-1 or DVD 45 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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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LIGHT MY FIRE - One Bread, One Body, 06/12/2024

Wednesday, June 12, 2024,

1 Kings 18:20-39
Psalm 16:1-2, 4-5, 8, 11
Matthew 5:17-19

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LIGHT MY FIRE
"Elijah appealed to all the people and said, 'How long will you straddle the issue? If the Lord is God, follow Him; if Baal, follow him.' " —1 Kings 18:21

The chosen people of Elijah’s time straddled the issue of total commitment to the Lord. By calling down fire from heaven (see 1 Kgs 18:24ff), Elijah tried to move the people from lukewarmness to a zealous, total commitment to the Lord. Unfortunately, although Elijah was successful in bringing down fire from heaven, he was unsuccessful in putting fire into the hearts of God’s people.

The Lord is sick of and nauseated by lukewarmness (see Rv 3:16). In total love, He died on the cross for each of us. He rightly expects us to accept the grace to love Him with all our hearts, all our souls, all our strength, and all our minds (Lk 10:27). He commands us “to stir into flame” the fire of the Holy Spirit within us (2 Tm 1:6), Whom we received in Baptism and Confirmation. “Our God is a consuming Fire” (Heb 12:29), and He lives within us (Jn 17:23; cf 1 Cor 6:19). So let the fire of His presence, power, and love burn in us forever (see Lk 12:49). Let the fire of Pentecost blaze in us and from us to “renew the face of the earth” (Ps 104:30).

Prayer: Father, set our hearts on fire as Jesus interprets for us the Scriptures (Lk 24:32).

Promise: "Of this much I assure you: until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter of the law, not the smallest part of a letter, shall be done away with until it all comes true." —Mt 5:18

Praise: For many years, Velma has regularly brought Holy Communion to those who have no one else to visit them.

(You may wish to listen to, download or order our Bible Teachers Series. Our CD series begins with CD 117-1. Our DVD series begins with DVD 117.)

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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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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GOD WORKING THROUGH YOU - One Bread, One Body, 06/11/2024

Tuesday, June 11, 2024, St. Barnabas

Acts 11:21-26; 13:1-3
Psalm 98:1-6
Matthew 10:7-13

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GOD WORKING THROUGH YOU
"The hand of the Lord was with them and a great number of them believed and were converted to the Lord. News of this eventually reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, resulting in Barnabas' being sent to Antioch." —Acts 11:21-22

Some of you are like St. Barnabas. You have sold your property and given the proceeds to the Church (Acts 4:36-37). Because of the Lord working through you, the lives of thousands of people are being transformed. Thank God for you!

Some of you are like Barnabas. You are “filled with the Holy Spirit and faith” (Acts 11:24). You are encouraging other Christians “to remain firm in their commitment to the Lord” (Acts 11:23). Because of the Lord working through you, “large numbers” are “added to the Lord” (Acts 11:24). Thank God for you!

Some of you are like Barnabas. You are fasting and praying and willing to go wherever the Holy Spirit sends you (Acts 13:2). Through your obedience, the Lord is delivering many people “from the power of darkness” and transferring them to the kingdom of His beloved Son (Col 1:13). Thank God for you!

What would the world be like without the Lord working through people who are like St. Barnabas? Through you, the Lord can do more than we can ever ask for or imagine (see Eph 3:20). Through people like Barnabas, God does even greater works than Jesus did (Jn 14:12). Thank God for Barnabas and for you! Be like Barnabas.

Prayer: Father, may I live the life of good works for which You have created me (see Eph 2:10).

Promise: "Cure the sick, raise the dead, heal the leprous, expel demons." —Mt 10:8

Praise: St. Barnabas dedicated much of his life to coming to the aid of Sts. Peter and Paul.

(For a related teaching on Leading Your Loved Ones to Christ, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order our CD 42-3 or DVD 42 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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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THE ATTITUDE FOR THE BEATITUDES - One Bread, One Body, 06/10/2024

Monday, June 10, 2024,

1 Kings 17:1-6
Psalm 121:1-8
Matthew 5:1-12

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THE ATTITUDE FOR THE BEATITUDES
"How blest are..." —Matthew 5:3

The Lord wants to bless us more than we can ever imagine because He loves us even to dying on the cross. He wants to bless us by showing us kindness. However, if we are proud, we will misappropriate this type of blessing. Therefore, the Lord blesses the proud by giving them sternness rather than kindness (1 Pt 5:5). To be blessed with kindness, we must humble ourselves (Mt 23:12).

To be blessed right now with the glory of God’s kingdom, we must humble ourselves by choosing poverty and/or persecution for righteousness’ sake (Mt 5:3, 10). To be blessed with consolation, we should humble ourselves by sorrowing for our sins (Mt 5:4; see 2 Cor 7:10). To be blessed with land, we are to choose the humility of lowliness (Mt 5:5). To be blessed with fulfillment, we must humble ourselves by seeking holiness rather than the satisfaction of our selfish desires (Mt 5:6). To be blessed by receiving God’s mercy, we must humble ourselves by giving mercy to those who have hurt us (Mt 5:7). To be blessed with seeing God, we are to humble ourselves by rooting out of our hearts anything not of God (Mt 5:8). To receive the blessings reserved for God’s children, we must humble ourselves by making peace rather than war against our enemies (Mt 5:9). The blessings of the Beatitudes are based on one attitude — humility.

Prayer: Father, may I joyfully humble myself for love of You.

Promise: "Ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the stream." —1 Kgs 17:6

Praise: Dr. Norm asked Jesus to heal his patient's migraine headache. The pain left her.

(For more teaching on The Beatitudes, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order our CD 44-3 or DVD 44 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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A WAR WORTH SEEING - One Bread, One Body, 06/09/2024

Sunday, June 9, 2024, 10th Sunday Ordinary Time

Genesis 3:9-15
2 Corinthians 4:13—5:1
Psalm 130:1-8
Mark 3:20-35
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A WAR WORTH SEEING
"He will strike at your head, while you strike at his heel." —Genesis 3:15

A war rages between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. Because it is a spiritual war, it cannot be viewed with physical eyesight (see 1 Cor 2:12-15). It’s critical to know we are in a war and act accordingly. Imagine walking through a war zone unaware that bullets and bombs are buzzing nearby. This would put us at risk of becoming a casualty since we wouldn’t defend ourselves and our loved ones.

This spiritual war has many casualties: widespread hunger, divorce, millions of aborted babies, rampant sexual sin, greed, injustice, selfishness, substance abuse, acts of violence, and much more. The natural man views the casualties without thinking of God — unless it’s to blame God. The spiritual man sees the spiritual war and responds with spiritual weapons as listed in Ephesians 6:10-20. “Our battle is not against human forces but against the principalities and powers, the rulers of this world of darkness, the evil spirits in regions above” (Eph 6:12).

Once the land of Israel was under attack. The servant of the prophet Elisha lamented that the forces of the invading Aramean army surrounded the city, which did not have enough troops to withstand them (2 Kgs 6:14-15). “ ‘Do not be afraid,’ Elisha answered, ‘Our side outnumbers theirs.’ Then he prayed, ‘O Lord, open his eyes, that he may see.’ And the Lord opened the eyes of the servant, so that he saw the mountainside filled with horses and chariots around Elisha” (2 Kgs 6:16-17).

Beg the Lord for the grace to see the war, fight properly, and trust that the battle belongs to Him (1 Sm 17:47).

Prayer: Father, may I "walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Cor 5:7). Give me eyes to fight "the good fight" of faith (2 Tm 4:7).

Promise: "Everything is ordered to your benefit." —2 Cor 4:15

Praise: You, risen Jesus, Captain and Conqueror!

(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 June 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio October 4, 2023"

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

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

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