November 19, 2023 - One Bread, One Body

November 19, Thirty-Third Sunday Ordinary Time

Cycle A Readings:
1) Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31
Psalm 128:1-5
2) 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6
Matthew 25:14-30

Let's dig it up

“I went and hid your talent in the ground.”—Matthew 25:25, RSV-CE

In the ancient world, a “talent” was a large sum of money. Our Lord plainly says that He expects much from those who have been given much (Lk 12:48). We servants of the Lord are branches connected to the vine, and because of that connection, we will bear fruit (Jn 15:5). In today’s Gospel parable, the money can be compared to spiritual gifts and graces that God has given to each servant (Mt 25:14ff). God expects much in return because of such great need in suffering, sinful humanity.

If, by our inaction, we do nothing with the gifts and graces He has given us, we become dormant, petrified, and fossilized (Jn 15:6). We stifle the Spirit (1 Thes 5:19) and bear no fruit.

So, if you have buried your “talent,” go and dig it up. Stir into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit the Lord bestowed in your Baptism and Confirmation (2 Tm 1:6-7). “Receive the Holy Spirit” anew (Jn 20:22).

Fr. Al Lauer, founding and long-time author of One Bread, One Body, said: “The more I say ‘No’ to myself, the more I say ‘Yes’ to the Holy Spirit.” Therefore, deny your very self, take up your daily cross (Lk 9:23), and beg the Lord for more of the Holy Spirit (Lk 11:13). Allow the Spirit to take control of your life and bear His fruit.

Prayer: Father, prune away anything You wish in my life (Jn 15:2) to make me a fruitful branch for You.

Promise: “The day of the Lord is coming like a thief in the night.” —1 Thes 5:2

Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus, Emmanuel, “God with us!” You became flesh and dwelt among us. Praise You for letting us see Your glory (Jn 1:14).

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 October 1, 2023, through November 30, 2023

†Most Reverend Steve J. Angi,  Chancellor, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio March 15, 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.