"one bread, one body"
"Because the loaf of bread is one, we, many though we are, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf." —1 Corinthians 10:17
The title of this booklet is taken from the above Scripture. Because we share in the one bread of Holy Communion, we are one body. Furthermore, if we are one as Jesus and the Father are one, then the world will believe that the Father sent the Son (Jn 17:21), God's plan of salvation will be fulfilled, and God's kingdom will have come "on earth as it is in heaven" (Mt 6:10). Our unity is absolutely essential. Jesus came to break down the barriers and make the two into one (Eph 2:14).
In one Spirit, all of us have been baptized into one body (1 Cor 12:13). It is not only "good" and "pleasant, where brethren dwell at one" (Ps 133:1), it's an absolute necessity. For example, it is not just "good" for your hands to be connected to the other parts of your body; it is a "must." Because unity is a necessity, partaking of the one bread, that is, Holy Communion, is a necessity. These booklets are written to motivate us to receive Communion daily. If done in the right spirit, this is among the most important acts of faith we can make in the Christian life.
Prayer: Jesus, at this moment, may hundreds decide to receive Holy Communion daily.
Promise: "Each man speaks from his heart's abundance. Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not put into practice what I teach you?" —Lk 6:45-46
Praise: St. Cyprian was told in a vision that he would be beheaded in a year, so he listened to the Holy Spirit and wrote an exhortation to those who would be called to suffer martyrdom.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Loving the Mass on audio AV 54-3 or video V-54.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 26, 2006
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