Archive for the ‘Daily Reflections’ Category
Sunday, July 27, 2014
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Monday, July 21st, 2014
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Sunday, July 20, 2014
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Sunday, June 22, 2014
Posted June 23, 2014
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COMMUNION DISTRIBUTORS |
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“Is not the bread we break a sharing in the body of Christ?” —1 Corinthians 10:16 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
This book, One Bread, One Body, is intended to motivate us to celebrate Mass and receive Holy Communion daily, or as often as possible. Therefore, the feast of Corpus Christi is of special significance for us. We pray that everyone who has ever read this book is totally committed to Jesus and in a deep communion with Him. Then it would be normal to express this communion in the way Jesus taught us at the Last Supper.
As we do this in memory of Him (1 Cor 11:24), we grow into deeper communion with Jesus. Through Jesus, we have communion with the Father and in the Spirit. We are also in communion with all those who receive Holy Communion. “We, many though we are, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf” (1 Cor 10:17). If we could receive and give communion in the deepest sense of the word, our communions would be catalysts to change the world. Nations would be united. Denominations would crumble, and all Christians would be one as Jesus and the Father are one (Jn 17:21). We would see deep unity within church congregations instead of pettiness and jealousies. Marriages and families would be one in mind and heart. The whole world would be radically and quickly changed into the image and likeness of God if we received and distributed communion in the deepest and fullest way. |
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Prayer: Jesus, give me a desire to receive You daily in Holy Communion. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Promise: “For My flesh is real food and My blood real drink. The man who feeds on My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me, and I in him.” —Jn 6:55-56 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Praise: “O body of Christ! O blood of the Lord!”
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April 14, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
NO TURNING BACK |
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“Mary brought a pound of costly perfume made from genuine aromatic nard, with which she anointed Jesus’ feet. Then she dried His feet with her hair, and the house was filled with the ointment’s fragrance.” —John 12:3 | ||
Mary was familiar with Judas from other times that Jesus and His disciples had visited their house (see Lk 10:38-42; Jn 11:1ff). Her jar of perfumed oil was expensive, and she probably wasn’t surprised that Judas knew its cost, roughly a year’s salary (see Jn 12:5). So this time, when Mary was moved to give lavishly to Jesus, she broke the jar that contained the perfume (see Mk 14:3). Once she broke that jar, there was no turning back, no skimping. The breaking of the jar meant that the perfume could not be preserved; she intentionally decided to give it all to Jesus.
Perhaps Mary believed Judas was either stealing or misusing the money deposited in the “contributions.” After all, Mary would have known the apostles well. Undoubtedly Mary wanted to give the perfume entirely to Jesus, not indirectly to Judas by selling it and donating the money. By breaking the jar, Mary could ensure that it did go to Jesus. Once the jar was broken, no one could reverse or overrule her decision to give it all to Jesus. Be like Mary. Give your all to Jesus. Put yourself in a situation where there is no turning back from giving all to Jesus. |
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Prayer: Father, You know how I am tempted to hold back when it comes to You. From now on, may I be willing to break any jars necessary and follow You without turning back. | ||
Promise: “The Lord…gives breath to its people and spirit to those who walk on [the earth].” —Is 42:5 | ||
Praise: Warren met Jesus inside his jail cell. Though still in prison, Jesus has set Warren free (Jn 8:36). | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
NO HAY VUELTA ATRÁS |
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“María, tomando una libra de perfume de nardo puro, de mucho precio, ungió con él los pies de Jesús y los secó con sus cabellos. La casa se impregnó con la fragancia del perfume” (Juan 12:3). | ||
María y Judas se conocían de tiempos atrás; Jesús y sus discípulos habían visitado su casa (ver Lc 10:38-42; Jn 11:1). María tenía un frasco de aceite perfumado muy caro, y Judas sabía que el precio era aproximadamente el salario de un año (ver Jn 12:5). Ella quiso mostrar su entrega a Jesús rompiendo el frasco a los pies del maestro (ver Mc 14:3). Una vez roto el frasco, no había vuelta atrás; no podía ser preservado. Ella intencionalmente decidió darle todo a Jesús.
Puede que María intuyera que Judas tendría “otros usos” si el perfume era donado a la bolsa común. Después de todo, María debía de conocer bien a los apóstoles. Lo que queda claro es que María quería darle todo el perfume a Jesús. Al romper el frasco, María se aseguraba de que iba a ser para uso exclusivo de Jesús. Esta lectura nos invita a ser como María y darle todo a Jesús. Ponte en una situación donde no hay vuelta atrás después de dárselo todo a Jesús. |
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Oración: Padre, Tú sabes cómo me siento tentado de contenerme cuando se trata de darme a ti. Quiero tener la disponibilidad para romper cualquiera de los frascos necesarios y seguirte sin mirar atrás. | ||
Promesa: “El Señor… da el aliento a tu pueblo que la habita [la tierra] y el espíritu a los que caminan por ella” (Is 42:5). | ||
Alabanza: Warren conoció a Jesús en la cárcel. Aun cuando todavía permanece en prisión, Jesús le ha dado su libertad (Jn 8:36). | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 13, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
“SEALED WITH A KISS” |
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“The One I shall kiss is the Man; seize Him.” —Matthew 26:48, RSV-CE | ||
Many of you who read this have been kissed passionately and have experienced the love and intimacy which accompanies such a kiss. Some of you have also been treated with indifference or even have been betrayed by the same person who kissed you earlier. Imagine, then, how Jesus felt in being kissed by Judas, His betrayer. Even so, Jesus never stopped loving Judas. He even addressed Judas as “Friend” after Judas sealed Jesus’ death with a kiss (Mt 26:50).
On this Palm Sunday, we open our lips to receive Jesus in Holy Communion. In effect, we receive a eucharistic kiss from Jesus (see Sg 1:2). Will we kiss Jesus with a kiss of loving intimacy, repentance, and commitment (see Lk 7:38), or will we give Him betrayal, indifference, and a kiss of death? (see 1 Cor 11:27-30) Will we use our lips to tell Jesus “Hosanna” today (Mt 21:9), but ignore Him later this week by living a lifestyle which opposes His teaching and which shouts “Crucify Him”? (Mt 27:22-23) On Good Friday, in five days, we will have another opportunity to kiss the cross of Jesus in veneration. A penitent woman tearfully and lovingly kissed the feet of Jesus (Lk 7:37-38). In the same way, seal your commitment to Jesus “with the kiss of love” (1 Pt 5:14, RSV-CE). |
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Prayer: “O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall proclaim Your praise” (Ps 51:17). My lips are Yours, Lord Jesus, from now on. | ||
Promise: “Clearly this was the Son of God!” —Mt 27:54 | ||
Praise: “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Mt 21:9) | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
“SELLADO CON UN BESO” |
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“Es aquel a quien voy a besar. Deténganlo” (Mateo 26:48). | ||
Muchos de ustedes que leen esto han besado apasionadamente y han experimentado el amor y la intimidad que expresa un beso. Otros han sido tratados con indiferencia o incluso han sido traicionados por la misma persona que le dio un beso antes. Imagínense, entonces, ¿cómo se sintió Jesús al ser besado por Judas, el traidor? Aun así, Jesús nunca dejó de amar a Judas. Incluso se dirigió a Judas como “amigo” después de que Judas sellara la muerte de Jesús con un beso (Mt 26:50).
En este Domingo de Ramos abrimos nuestros labios para recibir a Jesús en la Sagrada Comunión. En efecto, recibimos un beso eucarístico de Jesús (Stg 1:2). ¿Vamos a besar a Jesús con un beso íntimo y amoroso, de arrepentimiento y de compromiso (ver Lc 7:38 ), o vamos a darle uno de traición, indiferencia y un beso de muerte? (ver 1 Co 11:27-30) ¿Vamos a usar nuestros labios para decirle a Jesús “Hosana” hoy (Mt 21:09), y lo vamos a ignorar esta semana con un estilo de vida que se opone a sus enseñanzas y que grita: “¡crucifícale!”? (Mt 27:22-23). En el Viernes Santo, dentro de cinco días, tendremos otra oportunidad de besar la cruz de Jesús en acto de veneración. Una mujer penitente besó con lágrimas y con amor los pies de Jesús (Lc 7:37-38). De la misma manera sella el compromiso con Jesús “con un beso de amor fraternal” (1 Pe 5:14). |
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Oración: “Abre mis labios, Señor, y mi boca proclamará tu alabanza” (Sal 51:17). Mis labios son tuyos, Señor Jesús, de ahora en adelante. | ||
Promesa: “¡Verdaderamente, este era el hijo de Dios!” (Mt 27:54). | ||
Alabanza: “¡Hosana al Hijo de David! ¡Bendito el que viene en nombre del Señor! ¡Hosana en las alturas!” (Mt 21:9). | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 12, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
LEAD-OFF BATTER-ED |
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“I will make them one nation upon the land, in the mountains of Israel, and there shall be one Prince for them all.” —Ezekiel 37:22 | ||
Ezekiel prophesied that Israel and Judah would be united after hundreds of years of division. This miracle of unity would be done by David’s Descendant, Who would be the one Prince and the one Shepherd of the reunited nation (Ez 37:24). Ezekiel prophesied unity through divinely ordained leadership.
Caiaphas, the high priest when Jesus died, also prophesied. He said: “It is better for you to have one Man die [for the people] than to have the whole nation destroyed” (Jn 11:50). Caiaphas “prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation — and not for this nation only, but to gather into one all the dispersed children of God” (Jn 11:51-52). Unity would be effected by a Leader — not by a leader in governing, organizing, building, or even fighting, but by a Leader in dying. Jesus led the way in dying and made two into one through the blood of His cross (Eph 2:16; Col 1:20). If we want unity in our world, among denominations, within the Church, in marriage and family, and in Christian community, we, with Jesus, must lead the way in dying. We must continually “carry about in our bodies the dying of Jesus” (2 Cor 4:10). We must lead the daily Way of the Cross (Lk 9:23). All Christians “are constantly being delivered to death for Jesus’ sake” (2 Cor 4:11). However, those who volunteer to be the first to die and sacrifice make us one as the Father and Jesus are one (see Jn 17:21). Lead in dying. |
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Prayer: Father, for love of You, in this Holy Week, may I take over the lead in the contest of suffering (see Heb 10:32). | ||
Promise: “I will make with them a covenant of peace; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them, and I will multiply them.” —Ez 37:26 | ||
Praise: Jesus healed Kim of breast cancer. | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
LIDER EN MORIR |
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“Haré de ellos una sola nación en la tierra, en las montañas de Israel, y todos tendrán un solo rey: ya no formarán dos naciones ni estarán más divididos en dos reinos” (Ezequiel 37:22). | ||
Ezequiel profetizó que Israel y Judá estarían unidos después de cientos de años de división, este milagro de unión seria hecho por un descendiente de David, quien sería el príncipe y pastor de esta nación reunificada (Ez 37:24). Ezequiel profetizó unificación a través de un liderazgo divinamente ordenado.
Caifás, el Sumo Sacerdote cuando Jesús murió, también profetizó. Dijo: “¿No les parece preferible que un solo hombre muera por el pueblo y no que perezca la nación entera?” (Jn 11:50). Caifás “No dijo eso por sí mismo, sino que profetizó como Sumo Sacerdote que Jesús iba a morir por la nación, y no solamente por la nación, sino también para congregar en la unidad a los hijos de Dios que estaban dispersos” (Jn 11:51-52). La unificación sería efectuada por un Líder ―no por un líder gobernante, organizador, edificante o incluso un luchador, pero por un líder al morir. Jesús los reconcilió con Dios en un solo cuerpo, por medio de la cruz, destruyendo la enemistad en su persona. Porque Él quiso reconciliar consigo todo lo que existe en la tierra y en el cielo, restableciendo la paz por la sangre de su cruz. (Ef 2:16; Col 1:20). Si queremos traer la unidad a nuestro mundo, dentro de la Iglesia, las denominaciones, los matrimonios, familias y en la comunidad cristiana; junto a Jesús, debemos asumir el camino del sufrimiento y la muerte. Nos corresponde “siempre y a todas partes, llevar en nuestros cuerpos los sufrimientos de la muerte de Jesús, para que también la muerte de Jesús se manifieste en nuestro cuerpo”(2Co 4:10). “El que quiera venir detrás de mí, que renuncie a sí mismo, que cargue con su cruz cada día y me siga” (Lc 9:23). Todos los cristianos “estamos enfrentamos a la muerte por causa de Jesús” (2Co 4:11). No obstante, aquellos que voluntariamente aceptan el sacrificio y la muerte, nos unifican, así como el Padre y Jesús son uno (ver Jn 17:21) se nos invita a tomar esta senda. |
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Oración: Padre, por tu amor, en esta semana Santa, que pueda asumir el camino del sufrimiento (ver Heb 10:32). | ||
Promesa: “Estableceré para ellos una alianza de paz, que será para ellos una alianza eterna. Los instalaré, los multiplicaré y pondré mi Santuario en medio de ellos para siempre” (Ez 37:26). | ||
Alabanza: Jesús curó a Kim de cáncer del seno. | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 11, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
LOVE, SUFFERING, AND EVANGELIZATION |
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“Many came to believe in him.” —John 10:42 | ||
The Lord will use you to lead many to believe in Him. However, before the Lord breaks through in the lives of those you are evangelizing, the evil one will usually try to intimidate you and pressure you to shut up. For instance, before the “many” in today’s Gospel reading believed in Jesus, some attempted to execute Jesus by stoning Him (Jn 10:31). Before the three-thousand believers of the first Christian Pentecost reached thousands more, Peter and John and then all the apostles were thrown in jail. Also, before these thousands of believers reached hundreds of thousands with the gospel of Jesus, many of the first Christians were persecuted and martyred.
Today, as in all Christian history, the Lord gives us the power to bear much fruit. If we will only fall to the earth and die like grains of wheat, we will bear much fruit (Jn 12:24). No matter how limited we may be or how inadequate we may feel, we will lead many to believe in Jesus if we love people enough to bear our “share of the hardship which the gospel entails” (2 Tm 1:8) and continually “carry about in our bodies the dying of Jesus” (2 Cor 4:10). Love, suffer, and bear fruit abundantly (see Jn 15:5). |
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Prayer: Father, “the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church” (Tertullian). Use my life and death as Your seed. | ||
Promise: “He has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked!” —Jer 20:13 | ||
Praise: St. Stanislaus advised preparing for spiritual battles with innocence of heart, integrity of faith, and dedication to virtue. | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
AMOR, SUFRIMIENTO Y EVANGELIZACIÓN |
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“Y en ese lugar muchos creyeron en él” (Juan 10:42). | ||
El Señor te utilizará para llevar a muchos a creer en Él. Sin embargo, antes de que el Señor se dé a conocer en las vidas de aquellos a quienes evangelizas, el Maligno normalmente intentará intimidarte y presionarte a callar. Por ejemplo, antes de que los “muchos” en la lectura del Evangelio de hoy creyeran en Jesús, algunos intentaron apedrearlo (Jn 10:31). Antes de que los tres mil creyentes del primer Pentecostés cristiano llegaran a miles más, pusieron a Pedro y Juan y luego a todos los apóstoles en la cárcel. También, antes de que estos miles de creyentes llegaran a centenares de miles con el evangelio de Jesús, persiguieron y martirizaron a muchos de los primeros cristianos.
Hoy en día, igual que durante toda la historia cristiana, el Señor nos da el poder de dar fruto. Nos toca caer en tierra y nos morir como granos de trigo, y así daremos mucho fruto (Jn 12:24). No importa lo limitados que estemos o lo inadecuados que nos sintamos, nos toca llevar a otros el amor de Jesucristo, compartiendo “los sufrimientos que es necesario padecer por el Evangelio” (2Tim1:8) y cuando “llevamos en nuestro cuerpo los sufrimientos de la muerte de Jesús” (2 Co 4:10). Al amar y aceptar el sacrificio que este conlleva, damos fruto en abundancia (Jn 15:5). |
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Oración: Padre, “la sangre de los mártires es la semilla de la Iglesia” (Tertuliano). Utiliza mi vida y muerte como tu semilla. | ||
Promesa: “¡Él libró la vida del indigente del poder de los malhechores!” (Jer 20:13). | ||
Alabanza: San Estanislao aconsejó que nos preparemos para las batallas espirituales con la inocencia del corazón, la integridad de la fe y la dedicación a la virtud. | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 10, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
DEAD ENDS AND THE LIVE END |
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“Whom do You make Yourself out to be?” —John 8:53 | ||
“Abraham is dead. The prophets are dead” (Jn 8:52). Buddha is dead. Mohammed is dead. Caesar is dead. Nations, societies, and civilizations are dead. Everyone is dead or on the threshold of death except for Jesus, “the Resurrection and the Life” (Jn 11:25).
Jesus alone holds “the keys of death and the nether world” (Rv 1:18). Consequently, Jesus is not merely a great leader, wise man, or the most significant figure in history. Jesus rose by His own power. This means Jesus is God. He was proclaimed “Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness, by His Resurrection from the dead” (Rm 1:4). Therefore, Jesus alone can say: “I solemnly declare it: before Abraham came to be, I AM” (Jn 8:58). Therefore, Christianity is not just another religion. It is the only religion directly founded by Christ, Who is God. Because of this, the Church is not just another human institution; it is the body of Christ and the only body of Christ. Therefore, a Christian is just not the same as every other person. A Christian is a walking tabernacle, containing the treasure of Jesus Himself (2 Cor 4:7). “Because of this we no longer look on anyone in terms of mere human judgment. If at one time we so regarded Christ, we no longer know Him by this standard” (2 Cor 5:16). Worship Christ, share His Gospel, love the Church (Eph 5:25), and reverence Christians as members of Christ’s body. |
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Prayer: Father, I will live in the freedom of knowing that Jesus will raise me from the dead. | ||
Promise: “I will maintain My covenant with you and your descendants after you.” —Gn 17:7 | ||
Praise: Martin did not return to drink when his wife died or when he lost his job. Jesus had indeed set him free (Jn 8:36). | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
CALLEJONES SIN SALIDA Y EL EXTREMO DE VIDA |
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“¿Quién pretendes ser tú?” (Juan 8:53). | ||
“Abraham murió, los profetas también” (Jn 8:52). Buda está muerto. Mahoma está muerto. César está muerto. Naciones, sociedades y civilizaciones han muerto. Todos andamos camino a la muerte; excepto Jesús, la Resurrección y la Vida” (Jn 11:25).
Sólo Jesús tiene “la llave de la muerte y del abismo” (Ap 1:18). Por lo tanto, Jesús no es simplemente un gran líder, sabio o una figura importante de la historia. A Jesús le resucitó el Padre, Él es Dios; constituido Hijo de Dios con poder según el Espíritu santificador por su resurrección de entre los muertos” (Rom 1:4). Es por eso que Jesús puede decir: “Les aseguro que desde antes que naciera Abraham, Yo Soy” (Jn 8:58). Por lo tanto, el cristianismo no es sólo otra religión. Es la única religión fundada por Cristo, quien es Dios. Igualmente la iglesia no es sólo otra institución humana; es el Cuerpo de Cristo. Los cristianos estamos, pues, llamados a vivir como tabernáculos que llevan el tesoro de Cristo (2Co 4:7). “Por eso nosotros, de ahora en adelante, ya no conocemos a nadie con criterios puramente humanos; y si conocimos a Cristo de esa manera, ya no lo conocemos más así” (2Co 5:16). Adora a Cristo, comparte su Evangelio, ama a la Iglesia (Ef 5:25) y reconoce en cada cristiano a un miembro del cuerpo de Cristo. |
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Oración: Padre, viviré en la libertad de saber que Jesús me levantará de entre los muertos. | ||
Promesa: “Estableceré mi alianza contigo y con tu descendencia a través de las generaciones” (Gn 17:7). | ||
Alabanza: Martín no volvió a beber cuando murió su esposa, ni cuando perdió su trabajo. Jesús lo había hecho realmente libre (Jn 8:36). | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 9, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:FATHER-FREEDOM
“We have but one Father and that is God Himself.” —John 8:41
When Jesus taught us about freedom, He taught us about God’s fatherhood. We can be free because we are children of God the Father. When we become free, we, as sons and daughters of God, have a permanent place with Jesus in God the Father’s family (see Jn 8:35). Jesus, as the Son of the Father, sets us free (Jn 8:36).
The truth will set us free (Jn 8:32). By truth, the Lord means true relationships, especially our relationship with God the Father. Jesus came to show us the Father (Jn 14:9). No one comes to the Father except through Jesus (Jn 14:6). Because Jesus is the only Way to the Father, He alone truly sets us free (Jn 8:36). Jesus is the Truth (Jn 14:6), because He has been perfectly true in His relationship with His Father, even to accepting death on the cross.
If, by grace, we are true to our heavenly Father and decide to do His will rather than ours (see Mt 26:39), we will deeply discover how true the Father is to us. This awesome security will take precedence over all fears, anxieties, and pressures (Lk 12:7). Secure in the Father’s true love, we will not be manipulated. We will be free at last.
Prayer: Father, Abba, in Your arms I am truly free. I love You.
Promise: “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Who sent His angel to deliver the servants that trusted in Him; they disobeyed the royal command and yielded their bodies rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.” —Dn 3:95
Praise: Len tried to stop masturbating during Lent. Jesus gave him the power to stop for a lifetime.
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014.
†Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013.
The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
PADRE – LIBERTAD
“Tenemos un solo Padre, que es Dios ” (Juan 8:41).
Cuando Jesús nos enseñó acerca de la libertad, nos enseñó sobre la paternidad de Dios. Somos libres porque somos hijos de Dios el padre. Cuando vivimos con libertad, como hijo o hija de Dios, tenemos un lugar permanente con Jesús en la familia de Dios padre (Jn 8:35). Jesús, como Hijo del padre, ha venido a liberarnos (Jn 8:36).
La verdad nos hará libres (Jn 8:32). Por verdad, el Señor se refiere a relaciones fidedignas, especialmente nuestra relación con Dios Padre. Jesús vino a mostrarnos al Padre (Jn 14:9). Nadie va al Padre sino por Jesús (Jn 14:6). Puesto que Jesús es el único sendero al Padre, sólo él nos hace realmente libres (Jn 8:36). Jesús es la Verdad (Jn 14:6), porque él ha sido totalmente fiel al Padre, incluso al aceptar la muerte en la Cruz. Si, por la gracia, podemos responder con fidelidad al llamado del Padre celestial y escogemos su voluntad en vez de la nuestra (Mt 26: 39), descubriremos el profundo amor que el Padre tiene por nosotros. Esta certeza ahoga todos nuestros temores, ansiedades y presiones (Lc 12:7). En la certeza el Amor fiel del Padre, vivimos confiados, discerniendo su voluntad, ahí reside nuestra total libertad.
Oración: Padre, Abba, en tus brazos soy verdaderamente libre. Te amo.
Promesa: “Bendito sea el Dios de Sadrac, Mesa y Abed Negó, porque ha enviado a su Ángel y ha salvado a sus servidores, que confiaron en él y, quebrantando la orden del rey, entregaron su cuerpo antes que servir y adorar a cualquier otro dios que no fuera su Dios” (Dn 3:28).
Alabanza: Len se propuso cesar de masturbarse como sacrificio durante Cuaresma. Jesús le dio la gracia de cesar para toda la vida.
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso.
†Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013.
El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo.
April 8, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
CROSS PEACE |
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“Where I am going you cannot come.” —John 8:21 | ||
Jesus told His sinful audience that He was going somewhere that they couldn’t come (Jn 8:21). One possible way to interpret this saying is to identify His destination as the cross. In our old, sinful nature, we “cannot come” (Jn 8:21) to the cross.
If we haven’t committed our lives to Jesus, we “cannot come” near the cross; rather, we flee from it (see Mk 14:50). Chained to our old, sinful nature, we are doomed to die in our sins (Jn 8:21, 24). We are “enemies of the cross” (Phil 3:18). In fact, when we live in our sins, the only time we come near the cross is for the purpose of nailing Jesus to it (see Heb 6:6; Catechism, 598). What a miserable dilemma! To avoid dying in our sins, we need to believe that Jesus is God, I AM (Jn 8:24). However, we need to come to the cross to realize that Jesus is God (Jn 8:28). Therefore, in His mercy, Jesus came down from heaven to go where we could not: the cross. When the crucified Jesus was lifted up on the cross, He snatched up our sinful nature and nailed it to the cross to be crucified with Him (Col 2:14). Hanging on the cross, Jesus draws all to Himself (Jn 12:32). By the grace and favor of God, we sinners who flee from the cross are given the desire to turn and look on Jesus. If we accept this grace, we will realize this crucified Jesus is God (Jn 8:28). We will believe in Him, accept Him as Lord and Savior (Jn 3:14-15), and be healed (Nm 21:9). Come to the cross today. Be set free in Jesus. |
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Prayer: Jesus, nail Your crucified self to me so I can never leave You. May I be crucified to the world and the world to me (Gal 6:14). May I be a man or a woman of Your cross. | ||
Promise: “You will surely die in your sins unless you come to believe that I AM.” —Jn 8:24 | ||
Praise: Robert has found direction to his life by spending time before the Blessed Sacrament. | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
LA CRUZ Y LA PAZ |
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“Adonde yo voy, ustedes no pueden ir” (Juan 8:21). | ||
Jesús dice a la gente que Él irá a un lugar donde ellos no pueden ir (Jn 8:21). Existe la posibilidad de que se refiriera a su destino en la cruz.; cierto que sin la redención y con nuestros pecados “no podemos ir” (Jn 8:21) a la cruz.
Si no entregamos nuestras vidas a con Jesús, “no podemos ir” por camino de la cruz, por el contrario, huimos de ella (ver Mc 14:50). Encadenados a nuestra naturaleza pecadora, estamos condenados a morir en nuestros pecados (Jn 8:21 y 24). Somos “enemigos de la cruz” (Fil 3:18). De hecho, cuando nuestros pecados dirigen nuestras acciones, la única motivación que nos acerca a la cruz es la de clavar a Jesús en ella (ver Heb 6:6; Catecismo, 598). ¡Que dilema tan triste! Para no morir en nuestros pecados necesitamos creer que Jesús es Dios, YO SOY (Jn 8:24). Sin embargo, necesitamos abrazar la cruz para encontrar allí a Jesús que es Dios (Jn 8:28). Por lo tanto, en su misericordia, Jesús bajó del cielo para ir donde nosotros no podíamos ir: a la cruz. Cuando Jesús crucificado fue levantado en la cruz, tomó nuestra naturaleza pecaminosa y la clavó en la cruz para que fuese crucificada con Él (Col 2:14). Colgado en la cruz Jesús atrae a todos hacia Él (ver Jn 12:32). Por la gracia y el favor de Dios, nosotros pecadores que huimos de la cruz, nos sentimos llamados a dar media vuelta y mirar a Jesús. Si aceptamos esta gracia, nos daremos cuenta de que este Jesús crucificado es Dios (Jn 8:28). Si creemos en Él y le aceptamos como Señor y Salvador (Jn 3:14-15), seremos salvos (Num 21:9). Ven a la cruz hoy y experimenta la libertad que solo Jesús puede dar. |
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Oración: Jesús, quédate crucificado en mí corazón, para que nunca pueda dejarte. “El mundo está crucificado para mí, como yo lo estoy para el mundo” (Gal 6:14). | ||
Promesa: “Porque si no creen que Yo Soy, morirán en sus pecados” (Jn 8:24). | ||
Alabanza: Durante el tiempo de adoración frente al Santísimo Sacramento, Roberto ha encontrado sentido para su vida. | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 7, 2014
Posted April 13, 2014
on:
CRIME AND PUNISHMENT |
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“Nor do I condemn you. You may go.” —John 8:11 | ||
Injustices are not merely thoughts or feelings; they are realities. Therefore, we must not only stop injustices to the poor but also begin to repair the damage inflicted. Punishing those guilty of injustice is part of repairing the evil effects of injustice. Punishment stops the wrongdoing. It may be part of leading wrongdoers to repentance. Punishing the unjust restores some peace and security to the community. It also restores the just values which have been skewed by injustices. So it would be unrealistic and unjust to let the adulteress in today’s Gospel reading go unpunished. The Pharisees were not necessarily being vindictive when they planned to stone the adulteress. They were doing justice.
When Jesus let the adulteress go, He would have been unjust if He had not planned to provide justice for her victims and society in general. Jesus did this when He took her punishment upon Himself and was executed in her place on Calvary. This may be why Jesus “bent down and started tracing on the ground with His finger” (Jn 8:6). He may have been deliberating whether to suffer the punishment for the adulteress’ sins, our sins, and those of the whole world. As Jesus bent down, He may have thought of being knocked down and tortured. As He traced on the ground with His finger, He may have seen the nails being pounded through His hands and His dead body being buried in the ground. When Jesus stood up and let the adulteress, and us, go free and uncondemned (Jn 8:11), He condemned Himself to take on the punishment justly due to all the sinners of all times. Jesus condemned Himself to an unimaginably brutal death for justice and love of us. |
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Prayer: Jesus, I am Barabbas (see Mt 27:16ff). The cross was intended to punish me. Thank You for justifying me (see Rm 5:1). | ||
Promise: “The whole assembly cried aloud, blessing God Who saves those that hope in Him.” —Dn 13:60 | ||
Praise: St. John urged, “Be driven by the love of God then, because Jesus Christ died for all.” | ||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed. |
CRIMEN Y CASTIGO |
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“Yo tampoco te condeno, le dijo Jesús. Vete, no peques más en adelante” (Juan 8:11). | ||
Las injusticias no son sólo pensamientos o sentimientos; estas son realidades. Por lo tanto, estamos obligados a poner un alto a las injusticias hacia los pobres además de empezar a reparar el daño cometido. Asegurase que se haga justicia con las víctimas es tan importante como reparar los efectos malignos de la ofensa cometida. Aplicar la justicia puede ser el primer paso hacia el arrepentimiento. Es esperado que el castigo que recibe el acusado esté en proporción con la falta cometida. Así es de esperarse que la mujer adúltera del Evangelio de hoy reciba su castigo. Los fariseos se preparan para apedrearla de manera que se haga justicia.
Fueron muchos los sorprendidos cuando Jesús no se une para ajusticiar a la mujer adúltera. Más allá de restaurar la justicia humana, la Misericordia Divina tiene el poder de transformar tanto a la víctima como a la sociedad en general. En un gesto que solamente el Amor del Padre puede realizar, Jesús asume en su propia carne todos los castigos destinados a la humanidad. De esta manera se convierte en nuestro redentor cuando fuera ejecutado en el Calvario. Está puede ser la razón por la que Jesús “inclinándose, comenzó a escribir en el suelo con el dedo” (Jn 8:6). Jesús está interesado en cada uno de nosotros; lo más probable es que estuviera pensando en los pecados de esta mujer. Así también tuvo que pensar en nuestros pecados y los pecados de todo el mundo. Jesús pensó en que iba a ser torturado y tirado al suelo; los clavos que atravesarían sus manos, su cuerpo colgando de la cruz. Pero lleno de un Amor infinito, Él se levantó y dejó ir a la mujer adúltera de la misma manera en que nos dejó ir a nosotros…sin condena (Jn 8:11). El Cordero de Dios, se condenó a Sí mismo para tomar el castigo justo que pagarían todos los pecadores de todos los tiempos. Jesús se condeno a Sí mismo a una muerte brutal e inimaginable por justicia y amor a nosotros. |
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Oración: Jesús, yo soy Barrabas (ver Mt 27:16) La cruz era para mi castigo. Gracias a Ti por justificarme (ver Rom 5:1). | ||
Promesa: “Entonces la asamblea entera clamó a grandes voces, bendiciendo a Dios que salva a los que esperan en él” (Dn 13:60). | ||
Alabanza: San Juan nos anima a “dejarnos guiar por el amor de Dios, porque Jesús Cristo murió por todos”. | ||
Rescripto: Según el Código de Derecho Canónico, se otorga el Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) a Un Pan, Un Cuerpo por el periodo desde 1 de abril de 2014 hasta 31 de mayo de 2014 incluso. †Reverendísimo Joseph R. Binzer, Obispo auxiliar y Vicario general de la Arquidiócesis de Cincinnati, 18 de diciembre de 2013. |
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El Imprimátur (permiso de publicar) es una declaración que un libro o folleto se considera libre de error doctrinal o moral. No implica acuerdo con contenido, opiniones o afirmaciones expresadas en el mismo. |
April 6, 2014
Posted April 4, 2014
on:
THE LAST WORD IN FAITH |
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“Do you believe?” —John 11:26 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
In two weeks, everyone in the world who goes to Mass on Easter will be challenged to reject Satan, all his works, and all his empty promises. We reject Satan because we believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit guides us to all truth (Jn 16:13), including faith in “the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting.” The last word in the great renewal of the baptismal promises is “the resurrection of the body and life everlasting.”
In two weeks, Jesus is going to say to us as He said to Martha: “I am the Resurrection and the Life” (Jn 11:25). He will ask us: “Do you believe this?” (Jn 11:26) By God’s grace, we will be able to answer: “Yes, Lord…I have come to believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God” (Jn 11:27). If we believe Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God, we believe He is the Resurrection and the Life, Who will open our graves (Ez 37:12), raise our bodies from the dead, and give us life everlasting. Fix your eyes on the risen Son (see Heb 12:2). See Jesus dying on the cross, and rising from the dead. Jesus, Who raised Lazarus from the dead, will give us the faith to believe in Him, renew our baptismal promises, and thereby rise from the dead to life everlasting. |
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Prayer: Father, whatever it takes, increase my faith greatly in the next two weeks. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Promise: “If the Spirit of Him Who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, then He Who raised Christ from the dead will bring your mortal bodies to life also, through His Spirit dwelling in you.” —Rm 8:11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Praise: Praise You Jesus, the crucified Resurrection and the Life! You are “the Author of Life” (Acts 3:15). “All life, all holiness comes from You.” | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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April 5, 2014
Posted April 4, 2014
on:
JESUS, THE “HOME-MAKER” |
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“Then each went off to his own house.” —John 7:53 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Zacchaeus encountered Jesus and opened his house to Him. That day, salvation came to his house (Lk 19:9). A royal official encountered Jesus, and Jesus promised to heal his son. “Jesus told him, ‘Return home’ ” (Jn 4:50). His son was healed, and his entire household “became believers” (Jn 4:53). A demon-possessed man met Jesus and was set free. He wanted to follow Jesus, but Jesus “told him instead: ‘Go home’ ” (Mk 5:19). The man told his family of the mercy of Jesus and all were amazed (Mk 5:20). For these people, Jesus was a home-maker.
The Jewish leaders of Jerusalem also encountered Jesus. They scorned Him, and returned home (Jn 7:53). Sadly, they missed the time of their visitation and lost the path to peace for their homes (Lk 19:42-44). Within forty years, their homes were totally destroyed by the Romans (Lk 19:44). The people of the towns of Chorazin and Bethsaida encountered Jesus and saw first-hand His miracles. However, they didn’t take Jesus into their lives or their homes. As Jesus prophesied, their homes were also destroyed by the Roman army (Mt 11:20-24). Bring Jesus into your home today. Give Him control of everything that takes place in your home. As Jesus takes charge of home repair, He may find it necessary to rip out some deteriorated or warped areas (see Lk 12:51-53). Yet Jesus is the “Restorer of ruined homesteads” (Is 58:12) and He tears down only to speed up the ultimate purpose of home restoration. Make Jesus the Lord of your home. Then your home will be so strong and united that it will survive even the worst trials (Mt 7:24-25). |
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Prayer: Father, use my home as a launching pad for the spread of the Gospel. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Promise: “A Shield before me is God, Who saves the upright of heart.” —Ps 7:11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Praise: St. Vincent’s motto was: “Whatever you do, think not of yourself, but of God.” | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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April 4, 2014
Posted April 4, 2014
on:
PRIVILEGED SUFFERING |
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“Let us beset the just one.” —Wisdom 2:12 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
“Let us condemn him to a shameful death.” —Wisdom 2:20
Two weeks from today is Good Friday. On that day, we will remember that Jesus suffered and died for love of us. We also remember that in our own flesh we “fill up what is lacking in the sufferings of Christ for the sake of His body, the Church” (Col 1:24). Jesus has left room for our sufferings to be included in His plan of redemption. Jesus blessed us when He said: “Blest are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of slander against you because of Me. Be glad and rejoice, for your reward is great in heaven” (Mt 5:11-12; see also Wis 2:22). May we be “judged worthy of ill-treatment for the sake of the Name” of Jesus (Acts 5:41). May our lives be “not like other men’s” (Wis 2:15) so that we will be privileged (Phil 1:29) to suffer “revilement and torture” (Wis 2:19) for righteousness’ sake (Mt 5:10). Rejoice “in the measure that you share Christ’s sufferings” (1 Pt 4:13). “If anyone suffers for being a Christian…he ought not to be ashamed. He should rather glorify God in virtue of that name” (1 Pt 4:16). Suffer, rejoice, and love. |
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Prayer: Father, I accept Your grace to take up my crosses daily (Lk 9:23). May I know how to share in Jesus’ sufferings by being formed into the pattern of His death (Phil 3:10). | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Promise: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit He saves.” —Ps 34:19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Praise: St. Isidore’s family was united in the Faith and bore great fruit. Isidore was a bishop, and two of his brothers and a sister were all canonized saints. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant my permission to publish One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014. †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 30, 2013. |
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The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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