custom-made for praise
"Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." —Ephesians 1:3
Before we were created, the Lord destined us to "praise His glory" (Eph 1:12). Our bodies are not ideal for thinking, working, or running. Our human limitations are obvious when we forget information, stumble over our words, stumble over our feet, or get tired. However, our bodies are tailor-made to praise God. From our renewed minds (see Rm 12:2), singing tongues, praying lips, open hearts, raised hands, to our dancing feet — we are created to praise God always and forever.
Our greatest praise of God is Eucharistic worship. At Mass, Jesus, the eternal High Priest, is not only the Object of our praises but also the Leader of our praise and worship to the Father and in the Holy Spirit. Through, with, and in Jesus we share at Mass in the heavenly praises offered by the angels and saints to the Holy Trinity.
In this book, One Bread, One Body, we try to help you better understand, appreciate, and apply the readings for Mass. Thus, you will better celebrate the Liturgy of the Word, the first part of our praise and worship at Mass. If we are helping you praise the Lord and worship in the Eucharist, please let us know, for this is the purpose of our ministry.
Praise the Lord always and forever! Praise our Eucharistic Lord!
Prayer: Father, fashion perfect praise in my life (see Ps 8:3). "Let the high praises of God" be in my throat (Ps 149:6).
Promise: "They went off, preaching the need of repentance. They expelled many demons, anointed the sick with oil, and worked many cures." —Mk 6:12-13
Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus! You are "the Way, and the Truth and the Life" (Jn 14:6). Alleluia!
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 27, 2018
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