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Thursday, May 2, 2019

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St. Athanasius


Acts 5:27-33
Psalm 34:2, 9, 17-20
John 3:31-36

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there's something about that name

"Better for us to obey God than men! The God of our fathers has raised up Jesus." —Acts 5:29

Jesus of Nazareth died for our salvation and rose from the dead. After He poured out the Holy Spirit, people began to realize His name was above every other name. At His name, every knee must bend and every tongue proclaim that Jesus is Lord (Phil 2:10-11).

The Spirit inspired the apostles to teach about Jesus' name and fill Jerusalem with it (Acts 5:28). Nonetheless, the authorities gave "strict orders not to teach" about Jesus' name (Acts 5:28). The apostles defied the order (Acts 5:29). They baptized in the Name (Acts 2:38). They healed and delivered in the Name (Acts 3:6; 19:13). They considered suffering a privilege "for the sake of the Name" (Acts 5:41). They were immersed in the Name. "There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no other name in the whole world given to men by which we are to be saved" (Acts 4:12).

Prayer:  Jesus, during this Easter time, may I fall deeply in love with You and say Your name accordingly.

Promise:  "Whoever believes in the Son has life eternal." —Jn 3:36

Praise:  St. Athanasius prepared for his vocation by spending two years with St. Anthony of the Desert. His courageous teaching helped defeat the Arian heresy.

Reference:  (As a follower of Christ, you have been called to lead others to Him. Get equipped to be His hands and feet here on earth! Attend our retreat Who am I in Christ?, May 24-26. Call 513-373-2397 or 937-587-5464 to register.)

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, November 28, 2018

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