January 28, 2024 - One Bread, One Body

January 28, Fourth Sunday Ordinary Time

Cycle B Readings:
1) Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9
2) 1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Mark 1:21-28

Rated "R"

“I have no desire to place restrictions on you, but I do want to promote what is good, what will help you to devote yourselves entirely to the Lord.” —1 Corinthians 7:35

We must accept certain restrictions if we wish to totally commit our lives to the Lord. Gospel poverty, celibacy, a large family, a faithful marriage, a demanding ministry — all restrict us significantly. However, any decision or commitment restricts us. Any successful athlete, business person, or celebrity has placed severe restrictions on themselves. How much more willing should we be to restrict ourselves out of love for the Lord! (see 1 Cor 9:27)

Consider what Jesus did for us. When He became a man, He emptied Himself and took the form of a slave (Phil 2:7). There is no greater restriction than to be nailed to a cross. Jesus was the most restricted person who has ever lived, but also the most free. He broke all restrictions of space and time by rising from the dead and ascending to heaven (1 Pt 3:22). Give your life completely to Jesus. Be restricted and resurrected as He was.

Prayer: Jesus, give me the freedom to be committed and self-sacrificing.

Promise: “The unclean spirit convulsed the man violently and with a loud shriek came out of him.” —Mk 1:26

Praise: Jesus is risen! In Him, we will also die and rise again. Alleluia!

Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Imprimatur ("Permission to Publish") for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2023, through January 31, 2024. †Most Reverend Steve J. Angi,  Chancellor, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 17, 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.