Jesus was thirsting for the people of Jerusalem to “come to” Him (see Mt 11:28). He told them: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem...how often have I yearned to gather your children, as a mother bird gathers her young under her wings, but you refused Me” (Mt 23:37). Jesus thirsted for a people who would accept His saving love, listen to His words, and put them into practice (Mk 4:8-9).

Jesus poured out His life for His beloved people, teaching, healing, and working miracles in their sight. “Despite His many signs performed in their presence, they refused to believe in Him” or gather to Him (Jn 12:37). Therefore, Jesus would instead gather and save all people through His ministry of suffering. He prophesied: “I — once I am lifted up from earth” on the cross “will draw all men to Myself” (Jn 12:32).

Jesus is thirsting to gather all people under His outstretched, crucified arms, now nailed to the wood of the cross (Jn 19:28).  Give Jesus a drink (Jn 4:7). Satisfy His yearning and thirsting. Stand in the shadow of His cross — at the feet of the crucified Jesus. Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of your life. Let Him gather you under His wings (see Mt 23:37). Listen to and obey His every word.

Rescript:  "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from April 1, 2022 through May 31, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 3, 2021"

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.