Wednesday, December 11, 2019, Pope St. Damasus I
Isaiah 40:25-31, Psalm 103:1-4, 8, 10, Matthew 11:28-30
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121119.cfm
A CHRISTMAS TREAT
"Come to Me." -Matthew 11:28
When Jesus came to us, we usually made His life burdensome. He carried the burden of our sins (Mt 8:17), and He carried the cross to pay for our sins (Jn 19:17; Catechism of the Catholic Church, 598). When Jesus came to us, we usually did not refresh Him. He was rejected (Jn 1:11), ridiculed (Mt 27:42), spurned (Jn 18:40), disbelieved (Mt 17:17), avoided (Is 53:3), mocked (Mk 15:19-20), and crucified (Jn 19:18). How wonderful that Jesus does not deal with us according to our sins and requite us according to our crimes! (Ps 103:10)
Jesus is "merciful and gracious," "slow to anger and abounding in kindness" (Ps 103:8). "He pardons all [our] iniquities" (Ps 103:3). "He crowns [us] with kindness and compassion, He fills [our] lifetime with good" (Ps 103:4-5). He refreshes, teaches, guides, and helps us (Mt 11:28-30).
Praise Jesus forever that He doesn't treat us as we had once treated Him. Let us treat Him as He has treated us. Like St. Martha, let's throw open our home and our life to Jesus and welcome Him with open arms (Jn 12:2). Like Mary of Bethany, let us lavish love and praise on Jesus (Jn 12:3). Like the magi, let us give Jesus our very best gifts (Mt 2:11).
Come to Jesus (Mt 11:28). Love Him with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength (Lk 10:27). "Let every heart prepare Him room." Make Jesus welcome this Advent, Christmas, and forever.
Prayer: Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus! (Rv 22:20) Come to me, and I will love You.
Promise: "They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles' wings." -Is 40:31
Praise: Pope St. Damasus I encouraged his secretary Jerome to study the Scriptures. Ultimately, this led to the Vulgate, the Latin translation of Scripture.
(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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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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Wednesday, December 11, 2019
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
BULLDOZERS - One Bread, One Body, 12/10/2019
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 96:1-3, 10-13, Matthew 18:12-14
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121019.cfm
BULLDOZERS
"A voice says, 'Cry out!' I answer, 'What shall I cry out?' " -Isaiah 40:6
When we think of Christmas preparations, we think of trees, cards, presents, cookies, and candles. However, the Bible speaks of a different kind of preparation. To prepare the way of the Lord, we must turn a desert wasteland into "a highway for our God" (Is 40:3). This means bulldozers, earthmovers, dynamite, a fleet of dump trucks, and the Army Corps of Engineers. It would take all that to lay low mountains and hills and use them as fill dirt for valleys (Is 40:4).
It's a big operation to take crooked, rough, winding ways and make them straight and smooth. Yet this is the picture the Bible presents about preparing for Christ's coming. This Advent time of preparation requires a heavy-duty job of deep repentance, conversion, soul-searching, and healing. It can be heart-wrenching, painful, convicting, and tearful. However, the end product is a clear and straight road for the Christmas Jesus to enter into our hearts.
What will it be - superficialities, worldly desires, and mere customs, or a real Advent preparing for a real relationship with Jesus?
Prayer: Jesus, bring in the bulldozer. All I've got to lose is my sin and selfishness.
Promise: "It is no part of your heavenly Father's plan that a single one of these little ones shall ever come to grief." -Mt 18:14
Praise: Thomas prepared for Christmas by leading his family to Confession.
(To prepare a highway for our God, read the Bible daily. For encouragement, order, listen to, or download any of the following on our website: "Ignorance of Scripture is Ignorance of Christ" CD 82-1 or DVD 82; "How to Pray the Bible" CD 82-3 or DVD 82; "How to Read the Bible" CD 46-3 or DVD 46; "Principles of Bible Interpretation" CD 79-1 or DVD 79.)
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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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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
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Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 96:1-3, 10-13, Matthew 18:12-14
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121019.cfm
BULLDOZERS
"A voice says, 'Cry out!' I answer, 'What shall I cry out?' " -Isaiah 40:6
When we think of Christmas preparations, we think of trees, cards, presents, cookies, and candles. However, the Bible speaks of a different kind of preparation. To prepare the way of the Lord, we must turn a desert wasteland into "a highway for our God" (Is 40:3). This means bulldozers, earthmovers, dynamite, a fleet of dump trucks, and the Army Corps of Engineers. It would take all that to lay low mountains and hills and use them as fill dirt for valleys (Is 40:4).
It's a big operation to take crooked, rough, winding ways and make them straight and smooth. Yet this is the picture the Bible presents about preparing for Christ's coming. This Advent time of preparation requires a heavy-duty job of deep repentance, conversion, soul-searching, and healing. It can be heart-wrenching, painful, convicting, and tearful. However, the end product is a clear and straight road for the Christmas Jesus to enter into our hearts.
What will it be - superficialities, worldly desires, and mere customs, or a real Advent preparing for a real relationship with Jesus?
Prayer: Jesus, bring in the bulldozer. All I've got to lose is my sin and selfishness.
Promise: "It is no part of your heavenly Father's plan that a single one of these little ones shall ever come to grief." -Mt 18:14
Praise: Thomas prepared for Christmas by leading his family to Confession.
(To prepare a highway for our God, read the Bible daily. For encouragement, order, listen to, or download any of the following on our website: "Ignorance of Scripture is Ignorance of Christ" CD 82-1 or DVD 82; "How to Pray the Bible" CD 82-3 or DVD 82; "How to Read the Bible" CD 46-3 or DVD 46; "Principles of Bible Interpretation" CD 79-1 or DVD 79.)
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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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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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Monday, December 9, 2019
HOPE - EVEN UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES - One Bread, One Body, 12/9/2019
Monday, December 9, 2019, Immaculate Conception
Genesis 3:9-15, 20, Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12, Psalm 98:1-4, Luke 1:26-38
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120919.cfm
HOPE - EVEN UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES
"God chose us in Him before the world began, to be holy and blameless in His sight." -Ephesians 1:4
The Lord created the human race to be with Him in Paradise. However, because of original sin, we:
* lost Paradise,
* severely wounded our human nature,
* fell from God's grace, and
* brought into our lives fear (Gn 3:10), shame (Gn 3:10), blame (Gn 3:12ff), pain (Gn 3:16, 19), violence (Gn 4:8), death (see Rm 6:23), self-deception, self-hatred, slavery, alienation, even damnation, and so much more.
Original sin is the most depressing fact of life. When we realize this, we cry out: "What a wretched man I am! Who can free me from this body under the power of death?" (Rm 7:24) Jesus Christ alone has freed us from original sin and its devastating effects. In fact, Jesus freed His mother Mary from ever having original sin. She was immaculately conceived. Mary is therefore "a sign of sure hope" (see Lumen Gentium, 68) for all of us that original sin with its death and damnation need not be the final word. Jesus is Lord of all, including original sin. "He is always able to save those who approach God through Him" (Heb 7:25). Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Mary Immaculate is a sign of hope pointing us to her Son, Jesus. No matter how shattered your life, broken your world, and sinful your society, look to Jesus and rejoice.
Prayer: Father, on this holy day, make me immaculate as I repent of my sins, confess them, and receive Your forgiveness.
Promise: "Nothing is impossible with God." -Lk 1:37
Praise: "The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin" (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 491). Praise You, Almighty God, for the sure hope You give us through Mary. 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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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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Genesis 3:9-15, 20, Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12, Psalm 98:1-4, Luke 1:26-38
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120919.cfm
HOPE - EVEN UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES
"God chose us in Him before the world began, to be holy and blameless in His sight." -Ephesians 1:4
The Lord created the human race to be with Him in Paradise. However, because of original sin, we:
* lost Paradise,
* severely wounded our human nature,
* fell from God's grace, and
* brought into our lives fear (Gn 3:10), shame (Gn 3:10), blame (Gn 3:12ff), pain (Gn 3:16, 19), violence (Gn 4:8), death (see Rm 6:23), self-deception, self-hatred, slavery, alienation, even damnation, and so much more.
Original sin is the most depressing fact of life. When we realize this, we cry out: "What a wretched man I am! Who can free me from this body under the power of death?" (Rm 7:24) Jesus Christ alone has freed us from original sin and its devastating effects. In fact, Jesus freed His mother Mary from ever having original sin. She was immaculately conceived. Mary is therefore "a sign of sure hope" (see Lumen Gentium, 68) for all of us that original sin with its death and damnation need not be the final word. Jesus is Lord of all, including original sin. "He is always able to save those who approach God through Him" (Heb 7:25). Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Mary Immaculate is a sign of hope pointing us to her Son, Jesus. No matter how shattered your life, broken your world, and sinful your society, look to Jesus and rejoice.
Prayer: Father, on this holy day, make me immaculate as I repent of my sins, confess them, and receive Your forgiveness.
Promise: "Nothing is impossible with God." -Lk 1:37
Praise: "The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin" (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 491). Praise You, Almighty God, for the sure hope You give us through Mary. Alleluia!
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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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Sunday, December 8, 2019
ADVENT TO THE MAX - One Bread, One Body, 12/8/2019
Sunday, December 8, 2019, Second Sunday of Advent
Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-9, Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17, Matthew 3:1-12
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120819.cfm
ADVENT TO THE MAX
"...a herald's voice in the desert: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths.' " -Matthew 3:3
The purpose of Advent is to prepare the way of the Lord, Who is coming to us in a new personal way this Christmas season. But there are different kinds and degrees of preparation. The Church teaches with John the Baptist that our preparation for Christ's coming this Christmas needs to be very extensive. We even need a baptism of repentance, that is, to be immersed in repentance (see Mt 3:11).
Our preparation for Christ this Christmas is comparable to a major excavation where mountains are made low and the fill dirt is used to fill in the valleys so as to make a rough road smooth and a crooked road straight (Lk 3:5). While the world gives us the picture of Santa Claus with a bag of presents, the Church presents the scene of the wild prophet, John the Baptist, driving a Komatsu super earth-mover to bury our sins.
Very few of us believe that Christmas is so great and we are so sinful as to require such an earthquake of preparation. However, the Church is right. We need a big Advent to have a true Christmas.
Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit so that I will not minimize but maximize Advent.
Promise: "The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding, a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the Lord." -Is 11:2
Praise: "God freed him from death's bitter pangs, however, and raised him up again, for it was impossible that death should keep its hold on him" (Acts 2:24). 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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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
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Copyright © 2019 Presentation Ministries
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Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-9, Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17, Matthew 3:1-12
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120819.cfm
ADVENT TO THE MAX
"...a herald's voice in the desert: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths.' " -Matthew 3:3
The purpose of Advent is to prepare the way of the Lord, Who is coming to us in a new personal way this Christmas season. But there are different kinds and degrees of preparation. The Church teaches with John the Baptist that our preparation for Christ's coming this Christmas needs to be very extensive. We even need a baptism of repentance, that is, to be immersed in repentance (see Mt 3:11).
Our preparation for Christ this Christmas is comparable to a major excavation where mountains are made low and the fill dirt is used to fill in the valleys so as to make a rough road smooth and a crooked road straight (Lk 3:5). While the world gives us the picture of Santa Claus with a bag of presents, the Church presents the scene of the wild prophet, John the Baptist, driving a Komatsu super earth-mover to bury our sins.
Very few of us believe that Christmas is so great and we are so sinful as to require such an earthquake of preparation. However, the Church is right. We need a big Advent to have a true Christmas.
Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit so that I will not minimize but maximize Advent.
Promise: "The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding, a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the Lord." -Is 11:2
Praise: "God freed him from death's bitter pangs, however, and raised him up again, for it was impossible that death should keep its hold on him" (Acts 2:24). Alleluia!
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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
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Saturday, December 7, 2019
IS IT CHRISTMAS YET? - One Bread, One Body, 12/7/2019
Saturday, December 7, 2019, St. Ambrose
Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26, Psalm 147:1-6, Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5-8
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120719.cfm
IS IT CHRISTMAS YET?
"The reign of God is at hand." -Matthew 10:7
When the Messiah, the Christ, comes:
* "No more will you weep" (Is 30:19).
* Our prayers will be answered quickly (Is 30:19).
* The Lord will meet our needs (Is 30:20).
* The Lord, our Teacher, will give us practical direction for our lives (Is 30:20-21).
* We will prosper (see Is 30:23ff).
* We will live in a supernatural light (Is 30:26).
* The Lord will bind up our wounds and heal us (Is 30:26).
Partly because these messianic promises do not seem fulfilled, conservative Jews believe that the Messiah, the Christ, has not yet come and therefore the true Christmas has not yet come. Christians believe that these promises and many more have been fulfilled in the Incarnation, death, and Resurrection of God Himself. We Christians admit that the new, abundant life given us by Jesus (Jn 10:10) has not been fully accepted because of our sins. However, this does not mean that the Lord has not fulfilled these messianic promises (see Jos 23:14).
This Christmas, let us repent of sin and receive His messianic promises. Thereby we show that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, and that Christmas is real.
Prayer: Father, by my total commitment to Christ, make my life a Christmas present to all I meet.
Promise: Jesus "said to His disciples, 'The harvest is good but laborers are scarce. Beg the Harvest-Master to send out laborers to gather His harvest.' " -Mt 9:37-38
Praise: St. Ambrose was not intimidated by civil authorities. In his disputes with Emperor Auxentius, he declared, "The emperor is in the Church, not above the Church."
(For a related teaching on "Jesus the Redeemer", order, listen to, or download our CD 50-3 or DVD 50 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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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/obob/obob.asp
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Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26, Psalm 147:1-6, Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5-8
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120719.cfm
IS IT CHRISTMAS YET?
"The reign of God is at hand." -Matthew 10:7
When the Messiah, the Christ, comes:
* "No more will you weep" (Is 30:19).
* Our prayers will be answered quickly (Is 30:19).
* The Lord will meet our needs (Is 30:20).
* The Lord, our Teacher, will give us practical direction for our lives (Is 30:20-21).
* We will prosper (see Is 30:23ff).
* We will live in a supernatural light (Is 30:26).
* The Lord will bind up our wounds and heal us (Is 30:26).
Partly because these messianic promises do not seem fulfilled, conservative Jews believe that the Messiah, the Christ, has not yet come and therefore the true Christmas has not yet come. Christians believe that these promises and many more have been fulfilled in the Incarnation, death, and Resurrection of God Himself. We Christians admit that the new, abundant life given us by Jesus (Jn 10:10) has not been fully accepted because of our sins. However, this does not mean that the Lord has not fulfilled these messianic promises (see Jos 23:14).
This Christmas, let us repent of sin and receive His messianic promises. Thereby we show that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, and that Christmas is real.
Prayer: Father, by my total commitment to Christ, make my life a Christmas present to all I meet.
Promise: Jesus "said to His disciples, 'The harvest is good but laborers are scarce. Beg the Harvest-Master to send out laborers to gather His harvest.' " -Mt 9:37-38
Praise: St. Ambrose was not intimidated by civil authorities. In his disputes with Emperor Auxentius, he declared, "The emperor is in the Church, not above the Church."
(For a related teaching on "Jesus the Redeemer", order, listen to, or download our CD 50-3 or DVD 50 on our website.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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/obob/obob.asp
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Friday, December 6, 2019
BLIND BIND - One Bread, One Body, 12/6/2019
Friday, December 6, 2019, St. Nicholas
Isaiah 29:17-24, Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14, Matthew 9:27-31
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120619.cfm
BLIND BIND
"As Jesus moved on from there, two blind men came after Him crying out, 'Son of David, have pity on us!' " -Matthew 9:27
What if you went blind right now? How would Christmas be? The Church speaks to us today about blindness. It implies we have been spiritually blinded by sin. If not healed, our blindness will ruin Christmas since we cannot see Christ, the meaning of Christmas.
The Lord promises through the prophet Isaiah: "Out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see" (Is 29:18). Jesus stretches forth His hand to touch our eyes, so we may recover our sight (Mt 9:30). We can be healed when we admit we need healing. May Jesus not have to say to us what He said to the Pharisees: " 'But we see,' you say, and your sin remains" (Jn 9:41).
When we admit our blindness, then we must admit its cause, that is, sin. The Lord calls us to confess our sins to one another to find forgiveness and healing (Jas 5:16). Without Advent repentance and Confession, we will have Christmas blindness. Instead of celebrating Christ, the Light of the world, we will be groping in the kingdom of darkness.
Don't miss out on Christ, Christmas, Light, and Life. Go to Confession. Be reconciled. Cry out (Mt 9:27) for Jesus' mercy: Lord, "I want to see" (Mk 10:51). "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I'm found, was blind but now I see."
Prayer: Holy Spirit, convict all who do not admit their spiritual blindness.
Promise: "The lowly will ever find joy in the Lord, and the poor rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. For the tyrant will be no more and the arrogant will have gone." -Is 29:19-20
Praise: St. Nicholas was bishop of Myra in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. He is venerated in both East and West for his charity. He served God faithfully by serving the poor.
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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" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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/obob/obob.asp
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Copyright © 2019 Presentation Ministries
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Isaiah 29:17-24, Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14, Matthew 9:27-31
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120619.cfm
BLIND BIND
"As Jesus moved on from there, two blind men came after Him crying out, 'Son of David, have pity on us!' " -Matthew 9:27
What if you went blind right now? How would Christmas be? The Church speaks to us today about blindness. It implies we have been spiritually blinded by sin. If not healed, our blindness will ruin Christmas since we cannot see Christ, the meaning of Christmas.
The Lord promises through the prophet Isaiah: "Out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see" (Is 29:18). Jesus stretches forth His hand to touch our eyes, so we may recover our sight (Mt 9:30). We can be healed when we admit we need healing. May Jesus not have to say to us what He said to the Pharisees: " 'But we see,' you say, and your sin remains" (Jn 9:41).
When we admit our blindness, then we must admit its cause, that is, sin. The Lord calls us to confess our sins to one another to find forgiveness and healing (Jas 5:16). Without Advent repentance and Confession, we will have Christmas blindness. Instead of celebrating Christ, the Light of the world, we will be groping in the kingdom of darkness.
Don't miss out on Christ, Christmas, Light, and Life. Go to Confession. Be reconciled. Cry out (Mt 9:27) for Jesus' mercy: Lord, "I want to see" (Mk 10:51). "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I'm found, was blind but now I see."
Prayer: Holy Spirit, convict all who do not admit their spiritual blindness.
Promise: "The lowly will ever find joy in the Lord, and the poor rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. For the tyrant will be no more and the arrogant will have gone." -Is 29:19-20
Praise: St. Nicholas was bishop of Myra in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. He is venerated in both East and West for his charity. He served God faithfully by serving the poor.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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/obob/obob.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2019 Presentation Ministries
To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp
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Thursday, December 5, 2019
CRASH! - One Bread, One Body, 12/5/2019
Thursday, December 5, 2019
Isaiah 26:1-6, Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27, Matthew 7:21, 24-27
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120519.cfm
CRASH!
"The rains fell, the torrents came, the winds blew and lashed against his house. It collapsed under all this and was completely ruined." -Matthew 7:27
The stock market will tumble. Our country will destroy itself from the inside. Family life in the USA will further deteriorate. Christmas will mean little more than an empty time of self-indulgence for millions.
Are these statements the fearless forecasts for the year 2020? No, they are not predictions but logical conclusions unless Americans repent. The fact is that a house built on sand will collapse (Mt 7:26-27). A building without a strong foundation will tumble. A life without a personal relationship with Jesus is not built on the Rock (1 Cor 3:11; Is 26:4). A nation not under God will be undermined and go the way of countless crumbled kingdoms throughout history (Is 26:5). A financial system not based on Biblical principles is a time bomb. A family that does not pray together will not stay together. A Christmas without Christ is meaningless at best and potentially destructive.
Only those who do the will of the heavenly Father have a stable future (Mt 7:21ff).
Prayer: Lord, during this Advent, may I let You build a firm foundation for Christmas, winter, the year 2020, and life.
Promise: "A nation of firm purpose You keep in peace; in peace, for its trust in You." -Is 26:3
Praise: George learned what really mattered, God and his family, when he lost the job he had relied upon.
(For a related teaching on "God Bless America", order, listen to, or download our CD 62-1 or DVD 62 on our website.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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/obob/obob.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2019 Presentation Ministries
To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp
To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r
Isaiah 26:1-6, Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27, Matthew 7:21, 24-27
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120519.cfm
CRASH!
"The rains fell, the torrents came, the winds blew and lashed against his house. It collapsed under all this and was completely ruined." -Matthew 7:27
The stock market will tumble. Our country will destroy itself from the inside. Family life in the USA will further deteriorate. Christmas will mean little more than an empty time of self-indulgence for millions.
Are these statements the fearless forecasts for the year 2020? No, they are not predictions but logical conclusions unless Americans repent. The fact is that a house built on sand will collapse (Mt 7:26-27). A building without a strong foundation will tumble. A life without a personal relationship with Jesus is not built on the Rock (1 Cor 3:11; Is 26:4). A nation not under God will be undermined and go the way of countless crumbled kingdoms throughout history (Is 26:5). A financial system not based on Biblical principles is a time bomb. A family that does not pray together will not stay together. A Christmas without Christ is meaningless at best and potentially destructive.
Only those who do the will of the heavenly Father have a stable future (Mt 7:21ff).
Prayer: Lord, during this Advent, may I let You build a firm foundation for Christmas, winter, the year 2020, and life.
Promise: "A nation of firm purpose You keep in peace; in peace, for its trust in You." -Is 26:3
Praise: George learned what really mattered, God and his family, when he lost the job he had relied upon.
(For a related teaching on "God Bless America", order, listen to, or download our CD 62-1 or DVD 62 on our website.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2019 through January 31, 2020
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 2, 2019
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.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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/obob/obob.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2019 Presentation Ministries
To add your e-mail address to this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp
To remove your e-mail address from this list go to
http://www.presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp?mode=r
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