NEAR AND FAR - One Bread, One Body, 09/01/2024

Sunday, September 1, 2024, 22nd Sunday Ordinary Time

Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8
James 1:17-18, 21-22, 27
Psalm 15:2-5
Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
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NEAR AND FAR
"Their heart is far from Me." —Mark 7:6

I’m sitting ten feet from Jesus in Eucharistic Adoration, very near to Him. “You, O Lord, are near” (Ps 119:151). In Old Testament times, the Lord said to Moses, “Come no nearer” (Ex 3:5). To draw near God was to risk death (see Ex 24:2; Nm 1:51). Yet even in pre-Christian days, God was drawing His people close. “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him” (Ps 145:18). The psalmist could say: “To be near God is my good” (Ps 73:28).

Jesus came to earth and people could touch, see, and hear Him (1 Jn 1:1). He came to dwell among His people, to live among us (Jn 1:14). Yet even that proximity was not near enough for the Lord. He came even nearer to us in the Eucharist, to dwell within us (Jn 6:56; 17:23).

Perhaps we have grown accustomed to God’s nearness. We have a great need for the fear of the Lord (Is 11:2), so we can learn how to be close to the Lord without losing the awe of being in His presence. The prophet Isaiah warned: “This people draws near with words only and honors Me with their lips alone, though their hearts are far from Me” (Is 29:13; Mk 7:6).

Some may say that they feel God is far from them and does not care. However, if anyone has moved, it was not God (see Ps 139:7-10). Possibly those thoughts arise because the person has moved away from God. If we draw near to God, He will draw near to us (Jas 4:8, RNAB). “Draw near to God” (Heb 7:19).

Prayer: Jesus, You came to call those near and far (Eph 2:17). Bring me near to You through Your blood (Eph 2:13). "Draw me!" (Sg 1:4)

Promise: "Hear the statutes and decrees...that you may live." —Dt 4:1

Praise: Praise Jesus, "the Resurrection and the Life" (Jn 11:25)!

(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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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“OUT OF FEAR” (Mt 25:25) - One Bread, One Body, 08/31/2024

Saturday, August 31, 2024,

1 Corinthians 1:26-31
Psalm 33:12-13, 18-21
Matthew 25:14-30

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"OUT OF FEAR" (Mt 25:25)
" 'My lord,' he said, 'you let me have five thousand.' "—Matthew 25:20

The servant who received the five thousand silver pieces feared his master the right way. This healthy fear is evident because upon receiving what his master entrusted to him, he “immediately” went to work on his master’s behalf (Mt 25:16). This servant had a spirit of the “fear of the Lord” and this fear caused him to “delight” (Is 11:2, 3) to receive the master’s gifts and respond with “industrious and reliable” service (Mt 25:21).

The servant who received the one thousand silver pieces feared his master the wrong way. This fear is evident because upon receiving what his master entrusted to him, he was afraid to make a mistake “out of fear” of being punished (Mt 25:25). This servant had a fear that was self-centered, not master-centered.

If God calls us to a task, He provides the grace to perform the task. Because of challenging Scriptures like these, we may be tempted to fear to succeed in God’s work since He has made it clear that success leads to even greater responsibilities (Mt 25:21). This “fear is useless. What is needed is trust” (Mk 5:36). Jesus makes it absolutely clear that greater responsibilities are first accompanied by greater grace (e.g. Mt 25:29). The Lord never sends anyone out without first empowering and equipping them for His service. Jesus entrusts us with great tasks and great gifts. We can respond to the Lord by joyfully and fearfully exclaiming, “You entrusted me” (Mt 25:22), or by sullenly and fearfully saying, “You burdened me” (see Mal 1:13). Choose the right fear.

Prayer: Father, may I make "even greater progress" in serving and pleasing You (1 Thes 4:10).

Promise: "Come, share your Master's joy!" —Mt 25:21

Praise: James owns a television, but only watches programs that edify or educate.

(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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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FAITH-FIGHT - One Bread, One Body, 08/30/2024

Friday, August 30, 2024,

1 Corinthians 1:17-25
Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 10-11
Matthew 25:1-13

View Readings

FAITH-FIGHT
"It pleased God to save those who believe through the absurdity of the preaching of the gospel." —1 Corinthians 1:21

Pope St. John Paul II maintained that the western world, especially Europe, Canada, and the USA, was in a crisis of faith. The lack of priestly and religious vocations in our part of the world is a symptom of a lack of faith. Our problems are not superficial, but critical. Satan is not just trying to break the windows of western civilization; he’s trying to take out our foundation.

Because “all depends on faith” (Rm 4:16), we need faith. However, Satan has worked over so many people that some Christians no longer believe in Jesus’ cross or in His final coming. The cross of forgiving enemies, the cross of letting ourselves be persecuted, the cross of sexual purity, the cross of a simple lifestyle, and the cross of submission to authority are a few of the crosses which many Christians consider absurd and stumble over (1 Cor 1:23). Moreover, some Christians have lost their faith in Jesus’ Second Coming. They are therefore among the foolish bridesmaids who were not ready for the Master’s return (see Mt 25:2). Jesus’ final coming is rarely on many Christians’ minds and has no practical effect on their lives.

Faith in the foundational revelations of Christianity is eroding. Repent, believe, and “fight hard for the faith” (Jude 3).

Prayer: Jesus, when You return may You find me with a strong faith (see Lk 18:8).

Promise: "Keep your eyes open, for you know not the day or the hour." —Mt 25:13

Praise: Belinda had a tubal ligation. Years later, she repented and expressed it by adopting a baby girl.

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

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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MELTING POT - One Bread, One Body, 08/29/2024

Thursday, August 29, 2024, Martyrdom of St. John the Baptizer

1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Psalm 145:2-7
Mark 6:17-29

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MELTING POT
"He will keep you firm to the end." —1 Corinthians 1:8, RNAB

Picture a pot of boiling water on the stove. A handful of firm spaghetti is dropped into the boiling water. Eventually, under the boiling heat of the water, the spaghetti will lose its firmness and grow soft. Likewise, the world, the flesh, and the devil (see 1 Jn 2:16) continually apply pressure to our souls, trying to break us down and soften us up.

Unlike the spaghetti, we Christians are not alone in the heat. As in the story of the three young men in the fiery furnace, there is a Son of God with us in the fire (Dn 3:92). Jesus is Emmanuel, God-with-us, always (Mt 1:23; Mt 28:20). With Jesus by our side and in our heart, our enemies and persecutors wilt, not us. “Our God is a consuming fire” (Heb 12:29). Even “the mountains melt like wax before” Him (Ps 97:5).

Jesus has baptized us in the Holy Spirit (Mk 1:8). The fire of the Spirit is stronger than the fires of this world (see Gal 5:17). “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and do not” yield to the fears of the flesh and this world (Gal 5:16, RSV-CE).

St. John the Baptizer is a model saint for this principle of firmness. He kept firm in the truth till the end (1 Cor 1:8), even at the cost of his life. With St. John the Baptizer, let us persevere in firmness (Eph 6:11), trusting in the Lord to the end.

Prayer: Lord, by Your grace, I believe that You will keep me firm in faith during the heat of the trials I bear, even to the end. Jesus, I trust in You.

Promise: "Great is the Lord and highly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable." —Ps 145:3

Praise: St. John the Baptizer unceasingly worked for purity in marriages and in government until it cost him his life.

(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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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HOLY IS AS HOLY LOVES - One Bread, One Body, 08/28/2024

Wednesday, August 28, 2024, St. Augustine

2 Thessalonians 3:6-10, 16-18
Psalm 128:1-2, 4-5
Matthew 23:27-32

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HOLY IS AS HOLY LOVES
"Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, you frauds!" —Matthew 23:27

The scribes and Pharisees thought they excelled in holiness. They fasted and tithed (Lk 11:42). They dedicated themselves to reading Scripture. They had zeal for God’s house. However, they neglected “the love of God” (Lk 11:42).

This means two things. First, the scribes and Pharisees were rightly concerned about God’s Word and the Temple, but placed a lower priority on His love. They found it more important to concentrate on other parts of their religion rather than on God’s command to love their neighbor (Lv 19:18). To neglect the love of neighbor is to neglect God. In fact, “the man without love has known nothing of God, for God is love” (1 Jn 4:8).

Second, and most important, by neglecting the love of God the scribes and Pharisees neglected to personally love God. The first and most important commandment is to love God before all else (Dt 6:5). They served God but neglected to love Him.

What about you? Is there anything today more important in your life than loving God? How much priority did you place on loving God yesterday? Life is full of distractions, responsibilities, and problems which demand our time and attention. In addition, Satan attempts to prevent us from taking time to love God. Yet those who fall in love always manage to find plenty of time to spend with their beloved. If we want to love God, then we have chosen the best part, and we shall not be deprived of loving Him (Lk 10:42). Love God.

Prayer: Father, nothing can separate me from loving You (Rm 8:39) except my own choice. I devote myself to love You always.

Promise: "Happy are you who fear the Lord." —Ps 128:1

Praise: St. Augustine gave up his mistress, his hedonism, and his secular philosophizing and found total fulfillment in serving his 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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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GLORY BE! - One Bread, One Body, 08/27/2024

Tuesday, August 27, 2024, St. Monica

2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 14-17
Psalm 96:10-13
Matthew 23:23-26

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GLORY BE!
"He called you through our preaching of the good news so that you might achieve the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." —2 Thessalonians 2:14

The Revised New American Bible translation of 2 Thessalonians 2:14 states that Jesus called us so we might possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, “the glory of an only Son coming from the Father” (Jn 1:14). “We have seen His glory” (Jn 1:14).

To possess the glory of God, go to Mass frequently, even daily. The Holy Mass is the place par excellence to possess the glory of God. At Sunday Mass, there is an entire prayer, called the Gloria, which focuses on the glory of God. In this prayer, we glorify God, saying “We give You thanks for Your great glory.” Before the Gospel reading, the entire congregation exclaims: “Glory to You, O Lord.” In the Creed, we proclaim that Jesus “will come again in glory.” All four Eucharistic Prayers end by proclaiming that “all glory and honor is” God’s. After the Our Father, we say to God: “For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are Yours, now and for ever.” At the closing of the Mass, one option for the priest to dismiss the congregation is: “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.”

Moses said to God: “Do let me see Your glory!” (Ex 33:18) Moses longed to “possess” the glory of God (see 2 Thes 2:14, RNAB). God allowed Moses to view His glory from behind (Ex 33:22ff). Later, Moses saw Jesus’ glory during the Transfiguration (Mt 17:3). Surely Moses would be thrilled to attend Holy Mass and possess “the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thes 2:14). May we long for the glory of God and find it in the Mass.

Prayer: Father, may I give "You glory on earth by finishing the work You gave me to do" (Jn 17:4).

Promise: "He shall rule the world with justice." —Ps 96:13

Praise: Rebuffed time and again by her son, St. Monica continued her prayers for him until his conversion.

(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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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WHAT DO I LOVE MORE THAN JESUS? - One Bread, One Body, 08/26/2024

Monday, August 26, 2024,

2 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 11-12
Psalm 96:1-5
Matthew 23:13-22

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WHAT DO I LOVE MORE THAN JESUS?
"How blind you are! Which is more important, the offering or the altar which makes the offering sacred?" —Matthew 23:19

Jesus clearly stated that “No man can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other or be attentive to one and despise the other” (Mt 6:24). To make it absolutely clear what He meant by this, Jesus’ next statement was “You cannot give yourself to God and money.”

The Pharisees “were avaricious men” (Lk 16:14), that is, they had an insatiable love of money. Jesus observed that they also were “fond of places of honor at banquets and the front seats of synagogues, of marks of respect in public and of being called ‘Rabbi’ ” (Mt 23:6-7). Sadly, in pursuing these attractions, they neglected “the love of God” (Lk 11:42). The Pharisees proved the truth of Jesus’ statement that people will love one master, money, and despise the other Master, God (Mt 6:24). Ultimately, the Pharisees despised Jesus so much that they demanded He be crucified. There is no middle ground. A person cannot love both God and mammon, that is, the things of the world.

What about us? Do we love anything more than Jesus? This is a dangerous place to be, for it puts us at risk of despising Jesus. “Have no love for the world, nor the things that the world affords” (1 Jn 2:15). Love God alone (Lk 10:27).

Prayer: Father, give me new eyes and a new heart so that I keep my eyes fixed on Jesus (Heb 12:2).

Promise: Grace and peace be yours from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." —2 Thes 1:2

Praise: Sarah, a quadriplegic, never complains about her situation. She constantly radiates the joy of the Lord at work, on the bus, and whenever people stare at her.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Let the Holy Spirit be your consolation if you have lost a spouse. We offer a Sept. 13-15 retreat for widows focused on drawing close to the Lord for strength. 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 August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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HIS EUCHARISTIC CHALLENGE - One Bread, One Body, 08/25/2024

Sunday, August 25, 2024, 21st Sunday Ordinary Time

Joshua 24:1-2, 15-18
Ephesians 5:21-32
Psalm 34:2-3, 16-21
John 6:60-69
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HIS EUCHARISTIC CHALLENGE
"Jesus was fully aware that His disciples were murmuring in protest at what He had said. 'Does it shake your faith?' He asked them." —John 6:61

Jesus challenges us to believe His mysterious statement: “The bread I will give is My flesh, for the life of the world” (Jn 6:51). A typical reaction to this challenge is to ask the question: “How can He give us His flesh to eat?” (Jn 6:52) Jesus does not directly answer this question. Rather, He extends an even more puzzling challenge by repeatedly insisting that we eat His Flesh and drink His Blood (Jn 6:53-58). If we do this, He will raise us from the dead (Jn 6:53-54), live in us and we in Him (Jn 6:56), and give us life forever (Jn 6:58). If we do not eat His Body and drink His Blood, we “have no life in” us (Jn 6:53).

Then “many of His disciples remarked, ‘This sort of talk is hard to endure! How can anyone take it seriously?’ ” (Jn 6:60) “From this time on, many of His disciples broke away and would not remain in His company any longer” (Jn 6:66). Nevertheless, Jesus continues to insist that we believe in and receive His Body and Blood.

Joshua challenged the people: “Decide today whom you will serve” (Jos 24:15). Jesus, the new Joshua (Jeshua), also challenges us to decide today about living to receive His Body and Blood. Will we receive Him in repentance, joy, and love? Will we receive Holy Communion as often as possible and center our lives on the Eucharist? Jesus is challenging us. Our actions will speak louder than our words. Will we accept Jesus’ challenge?

Prayer: Father, grant me the grace to come to the Eucharistic Jesus (see Jn 6:65).

Promise: "Defer to one another out of reverence for Christ." —Eph 5:21

Praise: Praise You, risen Lord Jesus. You are holy and all your ways are true (see Tb 3:2).



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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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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WILL CHRIST’S CHURCH PLEASE STAND UP? - One Bread, One Body, 08/24/2024

Saturday, August 24, 2024, St. Bartholomew

Revelation 21:9-14
Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18
John 1:45-51

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WILL CHRIST'S CHURCH PLEASE STAND UP?
"Come, I will show you the woman who is the bride of the Lamb." —Revelation 21:9

Do you belong to the Church that Jesus founded? If you do, you belong to the Body of Christ (e.g. Eph 1:22-23) and the bride of Christ. If you belong to Christ’s Church, you belong to the Church which holds the keys to the kingdom of heaven (Mt 16:19) and is the pillar and bulwark of truth (1 Tm 3:15).

How do you know if you belong to Christ’s Church? Some people think that the Church with the best and holiest people must be Christ’s original Church. However, Christ’s Church has always been a mixture of wheat and weeds (Mt 13:24ff). Others think Christ’s Church is the one whose pastor teaches the best. This means they find the services and sermons to be helpful, inspiring, and even orthodox. So does this mean that a church ceases to be the Church of Christ if the sermons change or our evaluation of them changes? Moreover, who is the judge of what is orthodox? Don’t we need the Church of Christ to discern what is orthodox rather than having people who claim to be orthodox trying to discern the authenticity of the Church?

We can know which church is the Church of Christ because the Church of Christ is founded on the apostles (Rv 21:14; Eph 2:20). Our bishops are successors of the apostles because they have been ordained by successors of the apostles. Apostolicity is the objective sign of the authenticity of the Church as the Church of Christ. Thus, we celebrate the feasts of the apostles and today’s feast of St. Bartholomew, an apostle.

Prayer: Father, may I love the Church as Jesus does (Eph 5:25).

Promise: "You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." —Jn 1:49

Praise: St. Bartholomew was one of the apostles Jesus appeared to on the shore, after His resurrection (Jn 21:2). Jesus called him "a true Israelite" (Jn 1:47).



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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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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HOW DRY I AM - One Bread, One Body, 08/23/2024

Friday, August 23, 2024, St. Rose of Lima

Ezekiel 37:1-14
Psalm 107:2-9
Matthew 22:34-40

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HOW DRY I AM
"How dry they were!" —Ezekiel 37:2

Are you feeling spiritually dry? Do you feel that God is looking at your life and saying, “How dry you are!”? At one time in my life I was constantly surrounded by spirit-filled people, but I felt so dry and far from the Holy Spirit that I received in Baptism and Confirmation. I had given up hope of ever receiving His fullness. I was spiritually dry and I desperately needed living water (Jn 4:14). However, my life was fulfilling the expression: “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” I wanted the Spirit and a few of His gifts, but I didn’t want the Spirit to run my life.

“It is the Spirit that gives life” (Jn 6:63; Ez 37:5). It’s the Holy Spirit that gives the ability to love God and neighbor with our all (Mt 22:37). I knew these truths, but I only wanted the Spirit to give me a half-life, not life to the full (Jn 10:10). I wanted new life, but didn’t want a new lifestyle (see Mk 2:21-22).

For years, God soaked me with His sweet love through the Mass and the Holy Bible. Eventually, I came to Jesus and begged Him to immerse me in the Holy Spirit (Jn 7:37-38; Mk 1:8), even if I had to change my entire life (see Mt 13:44). I received the Holy Spirit in a deeper, life-changing way and was stunned to discover that I loved this new lifestyle.

Repent of stifling or saddening the Spirit, whether intentionally or unknowingly (1 Thes 5:19; Eph 4:30). Let God pour out His love in your heart through the Holy Spirit (Rm 5:5). “Receive the Holy Spirit” (Jn 20:22).

Prayer: Jesus, You lavish the Church with unrationed outpourings of the Spirit (Ti 3:6; Jn 3:34). May we seek the Holy Spirit in a manner worthy of the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity.

Promise: "I have promised, and I will do it, says the Lord."—Ez 37:14

Praise: St. Rose of Lima, fortified by years of prayer and penance, reached out to care for the needy, both young and old.

(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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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 PROPHECY WHICH IS THE PURPOSE OF LIFE - One Bread, One Body, 08/22/2024

Thursday, August 22, 2024, Queenship of Mary

Ezekiel 36:23-28
Psalm 51:12-15, 18-19
Matthew 22:1-14

View Readings

THE PROPHECY WHICH IS THE PURPOSE OF LIFE
"I will sprinkle clean water upon you." —Ezekiel 36:25

The Lord promised through the prophet Ezekiel: “I will sprinkle clean water upon you to cleanse you from all your impurities, and from all your idols I will cleanse you” (Ez 36:25). The Lord promised us a total purification far beyond any purification ever attempted. This purification will be part of a change of our nature. We can be born again, begotten from above (see Jn 3:3, 5). The Lord promised: “I will give you a new heart and place a new spirit within you, taking from your bodies your stony hearts and giving you natural hearts” (Ez 36:26). Our new nature will not only be new, but we will even be made sharers in the divine nature (2 Pt 1:4). The Lord has even said that He would live within us. He promised: “I will put My Spirit within you and make you live by My statutes” (Ez 36:27). Through our Baptism, we will live in the Holy Trinity and the Trinity will live in us (see Jn 17:23; cf 1 Cor 6:19).

The purpose of life is to receive the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy in today’s first Eucharistic reading. The purpose of life is to receive a new nature, to be born again by Baptism into Jesus, and to live that Baptism in total commitment to Jesus.

Let us thank the Lord always for the new birth in Baptism and the life of faith and faithfulness to the Lord. Let us love people enough to tell as many as possible about the purpose of life. “Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, He Who in His great mercy gave us new birth” (1 Pt 1:3).

Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit to teach me the radical newness of my baptized life in Jesus (see Lay Members of Christ's Faithful People, Pope St. John Paul II, 10).

Promise: "The invited are many, the elect are few." —Mt 22:14

Praise: Mary, our Queen Mother, places her protective mantle of love over "her offspring...those who keep God's commandments and give witness to Jesus" (Rv 12:17).



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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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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“WHAT’S IN IT FOR _____”? - One Bread, One Body, 08/21/2024

Wednesday, August 21, 2024, Pope St. Pius X

Ezekiel 34:1-11
Psalm 23:1-6
Matthew 20:1-16

View Readings

"WHAT'S IN IT FOR _____"?
"You go to the vineyard too." —Matthew 20:7

When we go out to work for the Lord, Jesus doesn’t promise us a place to lay our heads (Lk 9:58). Working in the vineyard for Jesus isn’t the place to be focused on what’s in it for us. The Lord knows our hearts. He knows how easy it is for us to be distracted by our self-interests. Before Jesus started His public ministry, He was confronted with the temptations of the devil to focus on how He could profit from His ministry (Mt 4:3-9). Satan tried to entice Jesus to take His eyes off His Father and put them on Himself. Jesus triumphed over these temptations by fixing His eyes completely on His Father’s will (Mt 4:10).

Let’s spend our day and our lives preoccupied with making a return to the Lord for all the good He has done for us (Ps 116:12). In focusing on giving all to Jesus, we paradoxically increase our own reward; this is because God cannot be out-given, for He is exceedingly generous (see Mt 19:29; Heb 6:10; Mt 10:41-42). However, once we entertain the thought of giving more to God so that we will receive more, we begin a downward spiral in which we focus increasingly on ourselves and lose focus on the Lord and His beloved flock. The Lord calls us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His way of service (Mt 6:33), and leave the rest in His loving hands (Mt 6:34). We are to focus on giving the Master a fruitful harvest and increasing His joy (Mt 25:21).

Don’t think, “What’s in it for me?” Beg the Father for the grace to instead think, “What’s in it for Jesus?”

Prayer: Father, may I decrease so that Jesus may increase (Jn 3:30).

Promise: "For thus says the Lord God: I Myself will look after and tend My sheep." —Ez 34:11

Praise: Pope St. Pius X, born of humble beginnings, was raised up by the Holy Spirit to serve a tumultuous, violent world.

(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."

San Bernardo fue consejero de Papas, predicador, sanador, erudito en las escrituras, y teólogo. Sin embargo, prefirió la vida monástica a estos.

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 FALSE GOD OF SELF - One Bread, One Body, 08/20/2024

Tuesday, August 20, 2024, St. Bernard

Ezekiel 28:1-10
Deuteronomy 32:26-28, 30, 35-36
Matthew 19:23-30

View Readings

THE FALSE GOD OF SELF
"Yet you are a man, and not a god, however you may think yourself like a god." —Ezekiel 28:2

For what are you taking credit? Do you think you’re so smart? Do you think that “by your wisdom and your intelligence you have made riches for yourself”? (Ez 28:4) Do you believe that you have gotten where you are primarily because of your hard work? Do you think: “Our own hand won the victory; the Lord had nothing to do with it”? (Dt 32:27)

“Who confers any distinction on you? Name something you have that you have not received. If, then, you have received it, why are you boasting as if it were your own?” (1 Cor 4:7) “I repeat, it is owing to His favor that salvation is yours through faith. This is not your own doing, it is God’s gift; neither is it a reward for anything you have accomplished, so let no one pride himself on it” (Eph 2:8-9). “Instead of saying, ‘If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that,’ all you can do is make arrogant and pretentious claims. All such boasting is reprehensible” (Jas 4:15-16). “Let him who would boast, boast in the Lord” (1 Cor 1:31; 2 Cor 10:17).

Prayer: Father, may I humble myself and be exalted by you (Mt 23:12; cf 1 Cor 1:27).

Promise: "Everyone who has given up home, brothers or sisters, father or mother, wife or children or property for My sake will receive many times as much and inherit everlasting life." —Mt 19:29

Praise: St. Bernard was an advisor to Popes, preacher, healer, reformer, scripture scholar, and theologian. However, he preferred the monastic life to these.

(For a related teaching on Pride and Faith, listen to, download or order our AV 64-1 or DVD 64 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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ALL-WAYS - One Bread, One Body, 08/19/2024

Monday, August 19, 2024, St. John Eudes

Ezekiel 24:15-23
Deuteronomy 32:18-21
Matthew 19:16-22

View Readings

ALL-WAYS
"What do I need to do further?" —Matthew 19:20

The essence of the Christian life is total abandonment to God’s will. The first and greatest commandment is to love God with all our hearts, all our souls, all our strength, and all our minds (Lk 10:27).

For each person, a certain act is representative of total abandonment to God. The young man in today’s Gospel reading would have given all to God if he had sold his possessions (Mt 19:21). Ezekiel gave all to the Lord by prophesying, even using the circumstances of his wife’s death to prophesy (Ez 24:15ff). Jewish Christians of the early Church gave God their all when they accepted Gentiles into their Christian community (see Acts 10:45ff). Gentiles gave their all to God by changing their lifestyle and observing certain Jewish practices (Acts 15:20). The older brother of the prodigal son could have given everything to the Lord by forgiving his brother (Lk 15:28ff). St. Matthew gave his all by leaving his secular job (Mt 9:9). St. Barnabas gave his all by selling his property and giving the money to the Church (Acts 4:37). Ananias and Sapphira failed to give their all in similar circumstances (Acts 5:1ff). The Blessed Virgin Mary gave her all by changing her plans and being the mother of God (Lk 1:34ff). St. Joseph gave his all by not divorcing Mary (Mt 1:19ff).

How does the Lord want you to live out your total abandonment to Him? “Do whatever He tells you” (Jn 2:5).

Prayer: Father, I am all Yours forever.

Promise: "You will then have treasure in heaven." —Mt 19:21

Praise: St. John Eudes was a priest, the founder of two religious communities, and a promoter of devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

(We have all been given Spiritual Gifts. Learn what yours are and how to use them by attending our retreat Sept. 6-8. 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 August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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“ALL WERE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT” (Acts 2:4) - One Bread, One Body, 08/18/2024

Sunday, August 18, 2024, 20th Sunday Ordinary Time

Proverbs 9:1-6
Ephesians 5:15-20
Psalm 34:2-7
John 6:51-58
View Readings

"ALL WERE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT" (Acts 2:4)
"Be filled with the Spirit." —Ephesians 5:18

At our Baptisms, we became temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). The Lord wants us to be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18; see also Acts 2:4). St. Paul taught that those filled with the Holy Spirit do the following four things. They:

1)      address “one another in psalms and hymns and inspired songs” (Eph 5:19),

2)      “sing praise to the Lord” (Eph 5:19) in their hearts,

3)      “give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph 5:20), and

4)      submit to one another out of fear of the Lord (see Eph 5:21).

Those filled with the Holy Spirit have set their hearts on higher realms (Col 3:1). Spiritually, they inhabit the throne room of God. They have entered “His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise” (Ps 100:4). Those filled with the Spirit upbuild, encourage, and submit to those around them. They can love their neighbor in this way because they love themselves (Lk 10:27). They love themselves because the Holy Spirit cries out in their hearts “Abba!” (“Father!”) (Gal 4:6) Secure in their Father’s love, those filled with the Spirit are a people of praise, thanksgiving, submission, and love. Accept the grace to be filled and stay filled with the Holy Spirit.

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: "I Myself am the living Bread come down from heaven. If anyone eats this Bread he shall live forever; the Bread I will give is My flesh, for the life of the world." —Jn 6:51

Praise: Glory to You, risen Jesus, our Lord, our Teacher, our Example, and our Brother. Alleluia!



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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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CHILDISH OR CHILDLIKE? - One Bread, One Body, 08/17/2024

Saturday, August 17, 2024,

Ezekiel 18:1-10, 13, 30-32
Psalm 51:12-15, 18-19
Matthew 19:13-15

View Readings

CHILDISH OR CHILDLIKE?
"Jesus said, 'Let the children come to Me. Do not hinder them. The kingdom of God belongs to such as these.' "—Matthew 19:14

When Jesus sees children, He thinks of His Father’s kingdom, for “the kingdom of God belongs” to those who are like children. Jesus teaches that to be like children of the kingdom means to:

• choose to become lowly (Mt 18:4),
• choose poverty in spirit, that is, voluntary poverty (Mt 5:3). When we as disciples of Jesus imitate Him by living below our means, the kingdom of God is ours (Mt 5:3),
• live so faithfully and openly for the Lord that we become “persecutable,” for the kingdom of God belongs to the persecuted (see Mt 5:10),
• resist temptations to intellectual pride (Lk 10:21), and
• be innocent of evil (1 Cor 14:20; see also Mt 10:16).

In summary, Jesus teaches that to be like children means to be as dependent on Him as little children are dependent on their parents. To live in God’s kingdom is to depend on Him for everything, for without Him we can do nothing (Jn 15:5).

The purpose of life is to give all to live in God’s kingdom (Mt 13:44-46). Therefore, obey Jesus and become like children.

Prayer: Father, make me more childlike as I get older.

Promise: "Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. Why should you die?" —Ez 18:31

Praise: Cynthia heard and accepted God's call to remain single for the sake of His Kingdom.

(For a related teaching on Arrogance, listen to, download or order our AV 52-1 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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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.D. OR B.C.? - One Bread, One Body, 08/16/2024

Friday, August 16, 2024, St. Stephen of Hungary

Ezekiel 16:1-15, 60, 63
Isaiah 12:2-6
Matthew 19:3-12

View Readings

A.D. OR B.C.?
"I now say to you..." —Matthew 19:9

Before Jesus’ Incarnation, divorce was considered necessary. Laws regulating divorce even appear in the Bible (see Dt 24:1-4). Before Jesus came as Savior, polygamy, not monogamy, was widely practiced. Before Jesus, single persons were usually considered cursed. Before Jesus, our understanding of love, marriage, sexual relations, the dignity of the human person, and vocations was very incomplete and perverted.

After we accept Jesus as Lord of our lives, we have the grace to develop great marriages of total self-giving. This usually results in large, happy, and beautiful families. In Christ, the divorced do not live lives of serial polygamy but lives of heroic faithfulness. They love unilaterally and unconditionally, as Jesus loves. Also, after Jesus came as Savior, we see those who are single for the Lord as prophetic signs of our future lives in the kingdom of heaven (Mt 19:12; Lk 20:34ff).

Look at your vocation to the married or single life. Is your marriage or divorce B.C. or A.D.? Are you decidedly and delightfully single? Or are you merely “unmarried”? In Christ, all relationships and vocations are radically transformed. “This means that if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old order has passed away; now all is new!” (2 Cor 5:17)

Prayer: Father, make my vocation new in Jesus. May I live this vocation to the full (Jn 10:10).

Promise: "God indeed is my Savior; I am confident and unafraid." —Is 12:2

Praise: St. Stephen is the national hero and spiritual patron of Hungary. He was crowned king by the Pope, on Christmas Day in 1001.

(For a related teaching view, download or order our booklet Who Am I in Christ? 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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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ASSUMING OUR ASSUMPTION? - One Bread, One Body, 08/15/2024

Thursday, August 15, 2024, Assumption

Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10
1 Corinthians 15:20-27
Psalm 45:10-12, 16
Luke 1:39-56
View Readings

ASSUMING OUR ASSUMPTION?
"In Christ all will come to life again, but each one in proper order." —1 Corinthians 15:22-23

The English word “assumption” is perhaps an unfortunate translation of the Latin word “assumptio.” “Assumptio” means to be taken up. The English word “assumption” usually means having an expectation without proof.  Nevertheless, God can work through this translation.

The Bible teaches that all Christians will be assumed to meet Jesus in the air when He comes again at the end of the world (1 Thes 4:17). Very few Christians expect to go to hell; we generally assume that we’ll be assumed to meet Jesus. This may be a false assumption. Just because we go to church or do great spiritual works does not mean we’ll be assumed to meet Jesus (Mt 7:21-23). Many falsely assume that if they’re not much worse than most people, they will be assumed (see Mt 7:13-14; Lk 13:24). Only by believing in Jesus and loving Him with all our hearts and souls, plus persevering until the end, will we rightly assume that we will be assumed to meet Jesus on the last day (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 161).

Mary knows this better than anyone else. If we are open to her ministry, she will lay bare the thoughts of our hearts and make sure we have no false assumptions about our own assumption (Lk 2:35).

Prayer: Father, may I assume that I can do nothing without Jesus (Jn 15:5) and that I must believe in Him and persevere with the aid of Your grace to receive salvation.

Promise: "He has deposed the mighty from their thrones and raised the lowly to high places." —Lk 1:52

Praise: Praise Jesus, the Son and the Savior of Mary! (see Lk 1:47)

(For a related teaching on The Assumption of Mary, listen to, download or order our AV 19-1 or DVD 19 on our website.)

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

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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ONE, HOLY, CATHOLIC, APOSTOLIC CHURCH - One Bread, One Body, 08/14/2024

Wednesday, August 14, 2024, St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe

Ezekiel 9:1-7; 10:18-22
Psalm 113:1-6
Matthew 18:15-20

View Readings

ONE, HOLY, CATHOLIC, APOSTOLIC CHURCH
"Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in their midst." —Matthew 18:20

The body of Christ has been split between Orthodox and Catholic for almost 1000 years. Protestants separated from Catholics about 500 years ago. Then Protestants splintered into thousands of denominations. We’ve always lived in a severely divided Church, in Christ’s terribly broken Body.

We have learned to live with disunity. It’s difficult for us to fathom Jesus’ high-priestly prayer that we become one as He and the Father are one (Jn 17:21). However, the Lord is calling us to “make every effort to preserve the unity” we have and restore the unity we’ve lost (Eph 4:3; cf 1 Cor 1:10). We must leave our gift at the altar and go to be reconciled with our brothers and sisters (Mt 5:23ff). We have the responsibility to correct those who have wronged us and also be open to correction if we have wronged others (see Mt 18:15). Moreover, we must be peacemakers (Mt 5:9), ministers of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:18), and witnesses (Mt 18:16) in order to help others resolve their disagreements. If necessary, we should call on our pastors to bring about unity in problem situations (Mt 18:17). The Church may even have to acknowledge that those in disunity have in effect excommunicated themselves (Mt 18:17).  A person’s decision to be excommunicated is officially accepted by the Church primarily to encourage that person to decide to return to communion with the Church.

These means for restoring unity may seem extreme, but not if we have Jesus’ heart for His broken Body, the Church.

Prayer: Father, may I be willing to pray daily and even give my life to re-unite Your Church (see That They Be One, Pope St. John Paul II, 102).

Promise: "From the rising to the setting of the sun is the name of the Lord to be praised." —Ps 113:3

Praise: St. Maximilian imitated Jesus by offering himself for execution when he could have escaped, and by insisting that another man be spared (see Jn 18:7-8).



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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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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 LIVING BIBLE - One Bread, One Body, 08/13/2024

Tuesday, August 13, 2024, Pope St. Pontian &
St. Hippolytus

Ezekiel 2:8—3:4
Psalm 119:14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131
Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

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THE LIVING BIBLE
"Eat this scroll, then go, speak to the house of Israel."—Ezekiel 3:1

Before we can speak God’s Word in power, we must hear, accept, and digest His Word so completely that it becomes part of us. We must eat the scroll of God’s Word (Ez 3:2; Rv 10:9). Then we will become letters “written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh in the heart” (2 Cor 3:3). As we become walking tabernacles by receiving Holy Communion, so we become walking Bibles when we eat the scroll of God’s Word. And we may be the only Bibles many people will ever read. We become walking Bibles by:

1)      hearing God’s Word and doing it (Mt 7:24; Jas 1:22),

2)      humbly welcoming “the word that has taken root” in us (Jas 1:21),

3)      meditating on God’s law (Word) day and night (Ps 1:2),

4)      reciting God’s Word “by day and by night” (Jos 1:8), and

5)      sharing God’s Word (see Lk 8:16).

The dogmatic constitution from the Second Vatican Council, On Divine Revelation, proclaims: “All the clergy must hold fast to the Sacred Scriptures through diligent sacred reading and careful study, especially the priests of Christ and others, such as deacons and catechists, who are legitimately active in the ministry of the Word” (25). This can also apply to all of us. Therefore, eat the scroll, devour God’s Word, make it the joy and happiness of your heart (Jer 15:16). In Jesus, the Word became flesh (Jn 1:14). In you, flesh can become the Word.

Prayer: Father, may I love Your Word more than money or pleasure (see Ps 119:72).

Promise: "How sweet to my palate are Your promises, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" —Ps 119:103

Praise: Sts. Pontian and Hippolytus forgave their bitter enemies — each other.



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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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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TELL-A-VISION - One Bread, One Body, 08/12/2024

Monday, August 12, 2024, St. Jane Frances de Chantal

Ezekiel 1:2-5, 24-28
Psalm 148:1-2, 11-14
Matthew 17:22-27

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TELL-A-VISION
"Such was the vision of the likeness of the glory of the Lord." —Ezekiel 1:28

Ezekiel experienced an overwhelmingly awesome vision of the Lord. In this vision, God called Ezekiel to prophesy to the hardened yet endangered Israelites. The king, Jehoiachin, was already in exile, and Ezekiel prophesied that the people would soon suffer the same fate (Ez 2:4ff).

In Ezekiel chapters 2 and 3, the Lord sends Ezekiel to speak His prophetic words of warning to “rebels...hard of face and obstinate of heart” who “will refuse to listen to” Ezekiel (Ez 2:3, 4; 3:7). God tells Ezekiel several times not to be afraid and to speak all His words to this stubborn people. Instead of being discouraged, Ezekiel was “spiritually stirred, while the hand of the Lord rested heavily upon” him (Ez 3:14).

If you received the Eucharist yesterday, you’ve seen the Lord — in a way far superior to Ezekiel’s vision. God called Isaiah and Ezekiel to prophesy in the midst of great visions. Likewise, God is calling you in the midst of your vision of Him. Some of you are called to be priests, others religious, others to the lay single vocation, and others to be faithful husbands and wives.

All are called to be prophets to a hardened, endangered age no less obstinate than Ezekiel’s. “Fear them not, nor be dismayed at their looks” (Ez 3:9), for God will make you stronger than they (see Ez 3:8-9; Jer 1:17-19). Accept your calling and vocation from the Lord. Speak His prophetic words. You are more than a conqueror in Jesus (Rm 8:37).

Prayer: Father, I will open wide my mouth so You can fill it with Your words (Ps 81:11). Use me to break open the hardest hearts.

Promise: "He will be raised up on the third day." —Mt 17:23

Praise: St. Jane, though living with her cantankerous father-in-law, radiated the joy of 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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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OWNERSHIP AND GRIEF - One Bread, One Body, 08/11/2024

Sunday, August 11, 2024, 19th Sunday Ordinary Time

1 Kings 19:4-8
Ephesians 4:30—5:2
Psalm 34:2-9
John 6:41-51
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OWNERSHIP AND GRIEF
"Do nothing to sadden the Holy Spirit with Whom you were sealed against the day of redemption." —Ephesians 4:30

We want to love God the Holy Spirit, for we are begotten of the Spirit (Jn 3:8), are filled with the Spirit (see Acts 2:4), and follow the lead of the Spirit (Gal 5:25). Nevertheless, we can sadden or grieve the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30).

We have been sealed with the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30). This means we have been marked or branded as owned by God. The Spirit’s work through our lives should be an exterior expression of this interior mark, sometimes called a “character” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1272, see also 1269). Being sealed with the Spirit means the potential absence in our lives of certain natural human attitudes such as “all bitterness, all passion and anger, harsh words, slander, and malice of every kind” (Eph 4:31). The absence of these expressions of our fallen nature indicates that we are born again, have a new nature, and are owned by God. Being sealed with the Spirit also means the potential presence of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness (Eph 4:32). To err is human; to forgive and show kindness and compassion even to our enemies is truly divine. This indicates we are owned by God.

We love the Holy Spirit by showing that God owns us. We grieve the Spirit by pretending to own ourselves and doing our own thing. Don’t grieve the Spirit.

Prayer: Father, may I say and live the following statement: "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: "If anyone eats this bread he shall live forever; the bread I will give is My flesh, for the life of the world." —Jn 6:51

Praise: Praise Jesus risen! He wants to raise us from the dead! Alleluia forever!

(Do you know what Spiritual Gifts are? Discover what they are at our retreat Sept. 6-8. 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 August 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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CONSUMER OR CONSUMED? - One Bread, One Body, 08/10/2024

Saturday, August 10, 2024, St. Lawrence

2 Corinthians 9:6-10
Psalm 112:1-2, 5-9
John 12:24-26

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CONSUMER OR CONSUMED?
"The man who loves his life loses it." —John 12:25

St. Lawrence is the patron of bountiful giving. It is said that he gave the Church’s treasures to the poor. Lawrence sowed bountifully and cheerfully. Now he reaps the bountiful harvest of transformed lives even centuries after his death (see 2 Cor 9:6). Lawrence not only gave possessions to the Lord; he gave his life for Him by cheerfully suffering martyrdom by fire. He was like a grain of wheat which falls to the earth, dies, and produces much fruit (Jn 12:24).

Lawrence’s life and death show that God wants not only all our money and possessions, but also all our time, energy, relationships, work, lives, and deaths. The Lord commands us to love Him with all our hearts in the most radical way (Mt 22:37).

“Our God is a consuming Fire” (Heb 12:29). We are accustomed to being consumers ourselves. However, when we give our lives to the Lord, we are no longer primarily the consumers but the consumed. We feel like resisting this but, whether or not we want it, we will be consumed by something — our handheld electronic device, work, compulsive behavior, TV, sports, food, cigarettes, anger, jealousy, etc. If we let God consume us, then we will not be degraded, but loved. Therefore, give and give in to God’s consuming love.

Prayer: Father, use me and use me up.

Promise: "He will multiply the seed you sow and increase your generous yield." —2 Cor 9:10

Praise: As he was dying a martyr's death, St. Lawrence imitated Jesus by praying for the city of Rome, whose government officials ordered his execution (see Lk 23:34).

(Be consumed by God by reading the Bible daily. For encouragement, listen to, download or order on our website: Ignorance of Scriptures is Ignorance of Christ, AV 82-1; How to Pray the Bible, AV 82-3; How to Read the Bible, AV 46-3; Principles of Bible Interpretation, AV 79-1.)

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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, 2024, through September 30, 2024. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio November 22, 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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