4.30.2015

Today's Bible story

April 30, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 13:16-20

16 Most certainly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his lord, neither one who is sent greater than he who sent him.

17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.

18 I don't speak concerning all of you. I know whom I have chosen. But that the Scripture may be fulfilled, 'He who eats bread with me has lifted up his heel against me.'☆

19 From now on, I tell you before it happens, that when it happens, you may believe that I am he.

20 Most certainly I tell you, he who receives whomever I send, receives me; and he who receives me, receives him who sent me."


☆13:18: Psalm 41:9

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Acts 13:13-25

13 Now Paul and his company set sail from Paphos, and came to Perga in Pamphylia. John departed from them and returned to Jerusalem.

14 But they, passing on from Perga, came to Antioch of Pisidia. They went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and sat down.

15 After the reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, "Brothers, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, speak."

16 Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, "Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen.

17 The God of this people* chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they stayed as aliens in the land of Egypt, and with an uplifted arm, he led them out of it.

18 For a period of about forty years he put up with them in the wilderness.

19 When he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he gave them their land for an inheritance, for about four hundred and fifty years.

20 After these things he gave them judges until Samuel the prophet.

21 Afterward they asked for a king, and God gave to them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.

22 When he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, to whom he also testified, 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my heart, who will do all my will.'

23 From this man's offspring,† God has brought salvation‡ to Israel according to his promise,

24 before his coming, when John had first preached the baptism of repentance to Israel.§

25 As John was fulfilling his course, he said, 'What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. But behold, one comes after me the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.'


*13:17: TR, NU add "Israel"

†13:23: or, seed

‡13:23: TR, NU read "a Saviour, Jesus" instead of "salvation"

§13:24: TR, NU read "to all the people of Israel" instead of "to Israel"

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 30, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_30.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 30, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/043015.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.13

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=13&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.29.2015

Today's Bible story

April 29, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 12:44-50

44 Jesus cried out and said, "Whoever believes in me, believes not in me, but in him who sent me.

45 He who sees me sees him who sent me.

46 I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in the darkness.

47 If anyone listens to my sayings, and doesn't believe, I don't judge him. For I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.

48 He who rejects me, and doesn't receive my sayings, has one who judges him. The word that I spoke, the same will judge him in the last day.

49 For I spoke not from myself, but the Father who sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.

50 I know that his commandment is eternal life. The things therefore which I speak, even as the Father has said to me, so I speak."

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Acts 12:24-13:5a

12:24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.

25 Barnabas and Saul returned to* Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their service, also taking with them John who was called Mark.

13:1 Now in the assembly that was at Antioch there were some prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen the foster brother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

2 As they served the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, "Separate Barnabas and Saul for me, for the work to which I have called them."

3 Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia. From there they sailed to Cyprus.

5a When they were at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues.


*12:25: TR reads "from" instead of "to"

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 29, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_29.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 29, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.12

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=12&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.28.2015

Today's Bible story

April 28, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 10:22-30

22 It was the Feast of the Dedication* at Jerusalem.

23 It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in Solomon's porch.

24 The Jews therefore came around him and said to him, "How long will you hold us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly."

25 Jesus answered them, "I told you, and you don't believe. The works that I do in my Father's name, these testify about me.

26 But you don't believe, because you are not of my sheep, as I told you.

27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

28 I give eternal life to them. They will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.

29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one is able to snatch them out of my Father's hand.

30 I and the Father are one."


*10:22: The "Feast of the Dedication" is the Greek name for "Hanukkah", a celebration of the rededication of the Temple.

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Acts 11:19-26

19 They therefore who were scattered abroad by the oppression that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except to Jews only.

20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists,† preaching the Lord Jesus.

21 The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.

22 The report concerning them came to the ears of the assembly which was in Jerusalem. They sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch,

23 who, when he had come, and had seen the grace of God, was glad. He exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they should remain near to the Lord.

24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith, and many people were added to the Lord.

25 Barnabas went out to Tarsus to look for Saul.

26 When he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they were gathered together with the assembly, and taught many people. The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.


†11:20: A Hellenist is someone who keeps Greek customs and culture.

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 28, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_28.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 28, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042815.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.10

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=10&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.27.2015

Today's Bible story

April 27, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 10:1-10

1 "Most certainly, I tell you, one who doesn't enter by the door into the sheep fold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

2 But one who enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out.

4 Whenever he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.

5 They will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him; for they don't know the voice of strangers."

6 Jesus spoke this parable to them, but they didn't understand what he was telling them.

7 Jesus therefore said to them again, "Most certainly, I tell you, I am the sheep's door.

8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep didn't listen to them.

9 I am the door. If anyone enters in by me, he will be saved, and will go in and go out, and will find pasture.

10 The thief only comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.

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Acts 11:1-18

1 Now the apostles and the brothers* who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

2 When Peter had come up to Jerusalem, those who were of the circumcision contended with him,

3 saying, "You went in to uncircumcised men, and ate with them!"

4 But Peter began, and explained to them in order, saying,

5 "I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision: a certain container descending, like it was a great sheet let down from heaven by four corners. It came as far as me.

6 When I had looked intently at it, I considered, and saw the four-footed animals of the earth, wild animals, creeping things, and birds of the sky.

7 I also heard a voice saying to me, 'Rise, Peter, kill and eat!'

8 But I said, 'Not so, Lord, for nothing unholy or unclean has ever entered into my mouth.'

9 But a voice answered me the second time out of heaven, 'What God has cleansed, don't you call unclean.'

10 This was done three times, and all were drawn up again into heaven.

11 Behold, immediately three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent from Caesarea to me.

12 The Spirit told me to go with them, without discriminating. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house.

13 He told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house, and saying to him, 'Send to Joppa, and get Simon, who is called Peter,

14 who will speak to you words by which you will be saved, you and all your house.'

15 As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, even as on us at the beginning.

16 I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, 'John indeed baptised in water, but you will be baptised in the Holy Spirit.'

17 If then God gave to them the same gift as us, when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I, that I could withstand God?"

18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, "Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life!"


*11:1: The word for "brothers" here and where context allows may also be correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 27, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_27.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 27, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042715.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.10

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=10&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.26.2015

Today's Bible story

April 26, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel: John 10:11-18

11 I am the good shepherd.☆ The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

12 He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who doesn't own the sheep, sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep, and flees. The wolf snatches the sheep, and scatters them.

13 The hired hand flees because he is a hired hand, and doesn't care for the sheep.

14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and I'm known by my own;

15 even as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep.

16 I have other sheep, which are not of this fold.☆ I must bring them also, and they will hear my voice. They will become one flock with one shepherd.

17 Therefore the Father loves me, because I lay down my life, ☆ that I may take it again.

18 No one takes it away from me, but I lay it down by myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. I received this commandment from my Father."


☆10:11: Isaiah 40:11; Ezekiel 34:11-12,15,22

☆10:16: Isaiah 56:8

☆10:17: Isaiah 53:7-8

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Acts 4:8-12

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "You rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

9 if we are examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed,

10 be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, in him does this man stand here before you whole.

11 He is 'the stone which was regarded as worthless by you, the builders, which has become the head of the corner.'☆

12 There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given amongst men, by which we must be saved!"


☆4:11: Psalm 118:22

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1 John 3:1-2

1 See how great a love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God! For this cause the world doesn't know us, because it didn't know him.

2 Beloved, now we are children of God, and it is not yet revealed what we will be. But we know that, when he is revealed, we will be like him; for we will see him just as he is.

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 26, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_26.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 26, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042615.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.20

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=20&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.25.2015

Today's Bible story

April 22, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 16:15-20

15 He said to them, "Go into all the world, and preach the Good News to the whole creation.

16 He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who disbelieves will be condemned.

17 These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new languages;

18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it will in no way hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."

19 So then the Lord,‡ after he had spoken to them, was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God.

20 They went out, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word by the signs that followed. Amen.


‡16:19: NA adds "Jesus"

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1 Peter 5:5b-14

5b All of you clothe yourselves with humility, to subject yourselves to one another; for "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble."☆

6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time;

7 casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.

8 Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

9 Withstand him steadfast in your faith, knowing that your brothers who are in the world are undergoing the same sufferings.

10 But may the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

11 To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

12 Through Silvanus, our faithful brother, as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand.

13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, greets you; and so does Mark, my son.

14 Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.


☆5:5: Proverbs 3:34

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 25, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_25.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 25, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042515.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/Mark.16

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&chapter=16&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.24.2015

Today's Bible story

April 24, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 6:52-59

52 The Jews therefore contended with one another, saying, "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?"

53 Jesus therefore said to them, "Most certainly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you don't have life in yourselves.

54 He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.

55 For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.

56 He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me, and I in him.

57 As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father; so he who feeds on me, he will also live because of me.

58 This is the bread which came down out of heaven?not as our fathers ate the manna, and died. He who eats this bread will live forever."

59 He said these things in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum.

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Acts 9:1-20

1 But Saul, still breathing threats and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest,

2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

3 As he travelled, he got close to Damascus, and suddenly a light from the sky shone around him.

4 He fell on the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"

5 He said, "Who are you, Lord?"
The Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.*

6 But† rise up, and enter into the city, and you will be told what you must do."

7 The men who travelled with him stood speechless, hearing the sound, but seeing no one.

8 Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened, he saw no one. They led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

9 He was without sight for three days, and neither ate nor drank.

10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias!"
He said, "Behold, it's me, Lord."

11 The Lord said to him, "Arise, and go to the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judah‡ for one named Saul, a man of Tarsus. For behold, he is praying,

12 and in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in, and laying his hands on him, that he might receive his sight."

13 But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he did to your saints at Jerusalem.

14 Here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name."

15 But the Lord said to him, "Go your way, for he is my chosen vessel to bear my name before the nations and kings, and the children of Israel.

16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name's sake."

17 Ananias departed, and entered into the house. Laying his hands on him, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord, who appeared to you on the road by which you came, has sent me, that you may receive your sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit."

18 Immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he received his sight. He arose and was baptised.

19 He took food and was strengthened. Saul stayed several days with the disciples who were at Damascus.

20 Immediately in the synagogues he proclaimed the Christ, that he is the Son of God.


*9:5: TR adds "It's hard for you to kick against the cattle prods."

†9:6: TR omits "But"

‡9:11: or, Judas

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 24, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_24.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 24, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042415.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.6

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=6&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.23.2015

Today's Bible story

April 23, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 6:44-51

44 No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up in the last day.

45 It is written in the prophets, 'They will all be taught by God.'☆ Therefore everyone who hears from the Father, and has learnt, comes to me.

46 Not that anyone has seen the Father, except he who is from God. He has seen the Father.

47 Most certainly, I tell you, he who believes in me has eternal life.

48 I am the bread of life.

49 Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died.

50 This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, that anyone may eat of it and not die.

51 I am the living bread which came down out of heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. Yes, the bread which I will give for the life of the world is my flesh."


☆6:45: Isaiah 54:13

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Acts 8:26-40

26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, "Arise, and go towards the south to the way that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza. This is a desert."

27 He arose and went; and behold, there was a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was over all her treasure, who had come to Jerusalem to worship.

28 He was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah.

29 The Spirit said to Philip, "Go near, and join yourself to this chariot."

30 Philip ran to him, and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?"

31 He said, "How can I, unless someone explains it to me?" He begged Philip to come up and sit with him.

32 Now the passage of the Scripture which he was reading was this,
"He was led as a sheep to the slaughter.
As a lamb before his shearer is silent,
so he doesn't open his mouth.

33 In his humiliation, his judgement was taken away.
Who will declare His generation?
For his life is taken from the earth."☆

34 The eunuch answered Philip, "Who is the prophet talking about? About himself, or about someone else?"

35 Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture, preached to him about Jesus.

36 As they went on the way, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, "Behold, here is water. What is keeping me from being baptised?"

37 *

38 He commanded the chariot to stand still, and they both went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch, and he baptised him.

39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, and the eunuch didn't see him any more, for he went on his way rejoicing.

40 But Philip was found at Azotus. Passing through, he preached the Good News to all the cities, until he came to Caesarea.


☆8:33: Isaiah 53:7,8

*8:37: TR adds Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." He answered, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."

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◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 23, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_23.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 23, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042315.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.6

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=6&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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4.22.2015

Today's Bible story

April 22, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 6:35-40

35 Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will not be hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

36 But I told you that you have seen me, and yet you don't believe.

37 All those whom the Father gives me will come to me. He who comes to me I will in no way throw out.

38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me.

39 This is the will of my Father who sent me, that of all he has given to me I should lose nothing, but should raise him up at the last day.

40 This is the will of the one who sent me, that everyone who sees the Son, and believes in him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day."

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Acts 8:1b-8

8:1b A great persecution arose against the assembly which was in Jerusalem in that day. They were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except for the apostles.

2 Devout men buried Stephen, and lamented greatly over him.

3 But Saul ravaged the assembly, entering into every house, and dragged both men and women off to prison.

4 Therefore those who were scattered abroad went around preaching the word.

5 Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and proclaimed to them the Christ.

6 The multitudes listened with one accord to the things that were spoken by Philip, when they heard and saw the signs which he did.

7 For unclean spirits came out of many of those who had them. They came out, crying with a loud voice. Many who had been paralysed and lame were healed.

8 There was great joy in that city.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 22, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_22.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 22, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042215.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.6

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=6&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.21.2015

Today's Bible story

April 19, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel: Luke 24:35-48

35 They related the things that happened along the way, and how he was recognised by them in the breaking of the bread.

36 As they said these things, Jesus himself stood amongst them, and said to them, "Peace be to you."
37 But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.

38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts?

39 See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, as you see that I have."

40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet.

41 While they still didn't believe for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Do you have anything here to eat?"

42 They gave him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb.

43 He took them, and ate in front of them.

44 He said to them, "This is what I told you, while I was still with you, that all things which are written in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms, concerning me must be fulfilled."

45 Then he opened their minds, that they might understand the Scriptures.

46 He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day,

47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

48 You are witnesses of these things.

-----

Acts 3:13-15, 17-19

13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his Servant Jesus, whom you delivered up, and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had determined to release him.

14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you,

15 and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, to which we are witnesses.

17 "Now, brothers,† I know that you did this in ignorance, as did also your rulers.

18 But the things which God announced by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he thus fulfilled.

19 "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord,


†3:17: The word for "brothers" here may be also correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

-----

1 John 2:1-5a

1 My little children, I write these things to you so that you may not sin. If anyone sins, we have a Counsellor* with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous.

2 And he is the atoning sacrifice† for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the whole world.

3 This is how we know that we know him: if we keep his commandments.

4 One who says, "I know him," and doesn't keep his commandments, is a liar, and the truth isn't in him.

5a But whoever keeps his word, God's love has most certainly been perfected in him.


*2:1: Greek παρακλητον: Counsellor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, and Comforter.

†2:2: "atoning sacrifice" is from the Greek "ιλασμο?", an appeasing, propitiating, or the means of appeasement or propitiation?the sacrifice that turns away God's wrath because of our sin.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 19, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_19.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 19, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.20

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=20&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

Today's Bible story

April 21, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 6:30-35

30 They said therefore to him, "What then do you do for a sign, that we may see, and believe you? What work do you do?

31 Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness. As it is written, 'He gave them bread out of heaven‡ to eat.'"☆

32 Jesus therefore said to them, "Most certainly, I tell you, it wasn't Moses who gave you the bread out of heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread out of heaven.

33 For the bread of God is that which comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world."

34 They said therefore to him, "Lord, always give us this bread."

35 Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will not be hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.


‡6:31: Greek and Hebrew use the same word for "heaven", "the heavens", "the sky", and "the air".

☆6:31: Exodus 16:4; Nehemiah 9:15; Psalm 78:24-25

-----

Acts 7:51〜8:1a

51 "You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit! As your fathers did, so you do.

52 Which of the prophets didn't your fathers persecute? They killed those who foretold the coming of the Righteous One, of whom you have now become betrayers and murderers.

53 You received the law as it was ordained by angels, and didn't keep it!"

54 Now when they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth.

55 But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

56 and said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!"

57 But they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and rushed at him with one accord.

58 They threw him out of the city, and stoned him. The witnesses placed their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul.

59 They stoned Stephen as he called out, saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!"

60 He knelt down, and cried with a loud voice, "Lord, don't hold this sin against them!" When he had said this, he fell asleep.

8:1a Saul was consenting to his death.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 21, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_21.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 21, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/042115.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.6

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=6&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.19.2015

=?iso-2022-jp?Q?Today's Bible story?=

April 19, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel: Luke 24:35-48

35 They related the things that happened along the way, and how he was recognised by them in the breaking of the bread.

36 As they said these things, Jesus himself stood amongst them, and said to them, "Peace be to you."
37 But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.

38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts?

39 See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, as you see that I have."

40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet.

41 While they still didn't believe for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Do you have anything here to eat?"

42 They gave him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb.

43 He took them, and ate in front of them.

44 He said to them, "This is what I told you, while I was still with you, that all things which are written in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms, concerning me must be fulfilled."

45 Then he opened their minds, that they might understand the Scriptures.

46 He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day,

47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

48 You are witnesses of these things.

-----

Acts 3:13-15, 17-19

13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his Servant Jesus, whom you delivered up, and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had determined to release him.

14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you,

15 and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, to which we are witnesses.

17 "Now, brothers,† I know that you did this in ignorance, as did also your rulers.

18 But the things which God announced by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he thus fulfilled.

19 "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord,


†3:17: The word for "brothers" here may be also correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

-----

1 John 2:1-5a

1 My little children, I write these things to you so that you may not sin. If anyone sins, we have a Counsellor* with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous.

2 And he is the atoning sacrifice† for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the whole world.

3 This is how we know that we know him: if we keep his commandments.

4 One who says, "I know him," and doesn't keep his commandments, is a liar, and the truth isn't in him.

5a But whoever keeps his word, God's love has most certainly been perfected in him.


*2:1: Greek παρακλητον: Counsellor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, and Comforter.

†2:2: "atoning sacrifice" is from the Greek "ιλασμο?", an appeasing, propitiating, or the means of appeasement or propitiation?the sacrifice that turns away God's wrath because of our sin.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 19, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_19.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 19, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.20

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=20&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.18.2015

Today's Bible story

April 18, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 6:16-21

16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea,

17 and they entered into the boat, and were going over the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not come to them.

18 The sea was tossed by a great wind blowing.

19 When therefore they had rowed about twenty-five or thirty stadia, * they saw Jesus walking on the sea,☆ and drawing near to the boat; and they were afraid.

20 But he said to them, "It is I.† Don't be afraid."

21 They were willing therefore to receive him into the boat. Immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.


*6:19: 25 to 30 stadia is about 5 to 6 kilometres or about 3 to 4 miles

☆6:19: see Job 9:8

†6:20: or, I AM

-----

Acts 6:1-7

1 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, a complaint arose from the Hellenists* against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily service.

2 The twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not appropriate for us to forsake the word of God and serve tables.

3 Therefore select from amongst you, brothers, seven men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

4 But we will continue steadfastly in prayer and in the ministry of the word."

5 These words pleased the whole multitude. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch;

6 whom they set before the apostles. When they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

7 The word of God increased and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem exceedingly. A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.


*6:1: The Hellenists used Greek language and culture, even though they were also of Hebrew descent.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 18, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_18.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 18, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041815.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.6

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=6&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.17.2015

Today's Bible story

April 17, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 6:1-15

1 After these things, Jesus went away to the other side of the sea of Galilee, which is also called the Sea of Tiberias.

2 A great multitude followed him, because they saw his signs which he did on those who were sick.

3 Jesus went up into the mountain, and he sat there with his disciples.

4 Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand.

5 Jesus therefore lifting up his eyes, and seeing that a great multitude was coming to him, said to Philip, "Where are we to buy bread, that these may eat?"

6 This he said to test him, for he himself knew what he would do.

7 Philip answered him, "Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that everyone of them may receive a little."

8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to him,

9 "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these amongst so many?"

10 Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." Now there was much grass in that place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.

11 Jesus took the loaves; and having given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to those who were sitting down; likewise also of the fish as much as they desired.

12 When they were filled, he said to his disciples, "Gather up the broken pieces which are left over, that nothing be lost."

13 So they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with broken pieces from the five barley loaves, which were left over by those who had eaten.

14 When therefore the people saw the sign which Jesus did, they said, "This is truly the prophet who comes into the world."

15 Jesus therefore, perceiving that they were about to come and take him by force, to make him king, withdrew again to the mountain by himself.

-----

Acts 5:34-42

34 But one stood up in the council, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, honoured by all the people, and commanded to put the apostles out for a little while.

35 He said to them, "You men of Israel, be careful concerning these men, what you are about to do.

36 For before these days Theudas rose up, making himself out to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were dispersed, and came to nothing.

37 After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the enrolment, and drew away some people after him. He also perished, and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered abroad.

38 Now I tell you, withdraw from these men, and leave them alone. For if this counsel or this work is of men, it will be overthrown.

39 But if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow it, and you would be found even to be fighting against God!"

40 They agreed with him. Summoning the apostles, they beat them and commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

41 They therefore departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for Jesus' name.

42 Every day, in the temple and at home, they never stopped teaching and preaching Jesus, the Christ.
-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 17, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_17.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 17, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041715.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.6

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=6&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.16.2015

Today's Bible story

April 16, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 3:31-36

31 He who comes from above is above all. He who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.

32 What he has seen and heard, of that he testifies; and no one receives his witness.

33 He who has received his witness has set his seal to this, that God is true.

34 For he whom God has sent speaks the words of God; for God gives the Spirit without measure.

35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into his hand.

36 One who believes in the Son has eternal life, but one who disobeys ‡ the Son won't see life, but the wrath of God remains on him."


‡3:36: The same word can be translated "disobeys" or "disbelieves" in this context.

-----

Acts 5:27-33

27 When they had brought them, they set them before the council. The high priest questioned them,

28 saying, "Didn't we strictly command you not to teach in this name? Behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and intend to bring this man's blood on us."

29 But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men.

30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you killed, hanging him on a tree.

31 God exalted him with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins.

32 We are His witnesses of these things; and so also is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him."

33 But they, when they heard this, were cut to the heart, and were determined to kill them.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 16, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_16.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 16, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041615.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.3

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=3&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.15.2015

Today's Bible story

April 15, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 3:16-21

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

17 For God didn't send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him.

18 He who believes in him is not judged. He who doesn't believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God.

19 This is the judgement, that the light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their works were evil.

20 For everyone who does evil hates the light, and doesn't come to the light, lest his works would be exposed.

21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his works may be revealed, that they have been done in God."

-----

Acts 5:17-26

17 But the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy,

18 and laid hands on the apostles, and put them in public custody.

19 But an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors by night, and brought them out, and said,

20 "Go stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life."

21 When they heard this, they entered into the temple about daybreak, and taught. But the high priest came, and those who were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

22 But the officers who came didn't find them in the prison. They returned and reported,

23 "We found the prison shut and locked, and the guards standing before the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside!"

24 Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these words, they were very perplexed about them and what might become of this.

25 One came and told them, "Behold, the men whom you put in prison are in the temple, standing and teaching the people."

26 Then the captain went with the officers, and brought them without violence, for they were afraid that the people might stone them.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 15, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_15.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 15, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041515.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.3

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=3&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.14.2015

Today's Bible story

April 14, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 3:7a, 8-15

7a 'You must be born anew.'

8 The wind† blows where it wants to, and you hear its sound, but don't know where it comes from and where it is going. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit."

9 Nicodemus answered him, "How can these things be?"

10 Jesus answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel, and don't understand these things?

11 Most certainly I tell you, we speak that which we know, and testify of that which we have seen, and you don't receive our witness.

12 If I told you earthly things and you don't believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?

13 No one has ascended into heaven, but he who descended out of heaven, the Son of Man, who is in heaven.

14 As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up,

15 that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.


†3:8: The same Greek word (pneuma) means wind, breath, and spirit.

-----

Acts 4:32-37

32 The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and soul. Not one of them claimed that anything of the things which he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.

33 With great power, the apostles gave their testimony of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Great grace was on them all.

34 For neither was there amongst them any who lacked, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,

35 and laid them at the apostles' feet, and distribution was made to each, according as anyone had need.

36 Joses, who by the apostles was also called Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, Son of Encouragement), a Levite, a man of Cyprus by race,

37 having a field, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 14, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_14.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 14, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041415.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.3

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=3&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.13.2015

Today's Bible story

April 13, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 3:1-8

1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.

2 The same came to him by night, and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him."

3 Jesus answered him, "Most certainly, I tell you, unless one is born anew, * he can't see God's Kingdom."

4 Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb, and be born?"

5 Jesus answered, "Most certainly I tell you, unless one is born of water and spirit, he can't enter into God's Kingdom.

6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh. That which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

7 Don't marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born anew.'

8 The wind† blows where it wants to, and you hear its sound, but don't know where it comes from and where it is going. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit."


*3:3: The word translated "anew" here and in John 3:7 (anothen) also means "again" and "from above".

†3:8: The same Greek word (pneuma) means wind, breath, and spirit.

-----

Acts 4:23-31

23 Being let go, they came to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them.

24 When they heard it, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, "O Lord, you are God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all that is in them;

25 who by the mouth of your servant, David, said,
'Why do the nations rage,
and the peoples plot a vain thing?

26 The kings of the earth take a stand,
and the rulers take council together,
against the Lord, and against his Christ.'*☆

27 "For truly, in this city against your holy servant, Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together

28 to do whatever your hand and your council foreordained to happen.

29 Now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness,

30 while you stretch out your hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of your holy Servant Jesus."

31 When they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were gathered together. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.


*4:26: Christ (Greek) and Messiah (Hebrew) both mean Anointed One.

☆4:26: Psalm 2:1-2

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 13, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_13.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 13, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041315.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.3

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=3&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.12.2015

Today's Bible story

April 12, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel: John 20:19-31

19 When therefore it was evening, on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were locked where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the middle, and said to them, "Peace be to you."

20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples therefore were glad when they saw the Lord.

21 Jesus therefore said to them again, "Peace be to you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you."

22 When he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit!

23 If you forgive anyone's sins, they have been forgiven them. If you retain anyone's sins, they have been retained."

24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, wasn't with them when Jesus came.

25 The other disciples therefore said to him, "We have seen the Lord!"
But he said to them, "Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe."

26 After eight days again his disciples were inside, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, the doors being locked, and stood in the middle, and said, "Peace be to you."

27 Then he said to Thomas, "Reach here your finger, and see my hands. Reach here your hand, and put it into my side. Don't be unbelieving, but believing."

28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"

29 Jesus said to him, "Because you have seen me,‡ you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen, and have believed."

30 Therefore Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book;

31 but these are written, that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.


‡20:29: TR adds "Thomas,"

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Acts 4:32-35

32 The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and soul. Not one of them claimed that anything of the things which he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.

33 With great power, the apostles gave their testimony of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Great grace was on them all.

34 For neither was there amongst them any who lacked, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,

35 and laid them at the apostles' feet, and distribution was made to each, according as anyone had need.

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1 John 5:1-6

1 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. Whoever loves the Father also loves the child who is born of him.

2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep his commandments.

3 For this is loving God, that we keep his commandments. His commandments are not grievous.

4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world: your faith.

5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

6 This is he who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ; not with the water only, but with the water and the blood. It is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 12, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_12.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 12, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041215.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.20

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=20&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.11.2015

Today's Bible story

April 11, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 16:9-15

9 †Now when he had risen early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons.

10 She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept.

11 When they heard that he was alive, and had been seen by her, they disbelieved.

12 After these things he was revealed in another form to two of them, as they walked, on their way into the country.

13 They went away and told it to the rest. They didn't believe them, either.

14 Afterward he was revealed to the eleven themselves as they sat at the table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they didn't believe those who had seen him after he had risen.

15 He said to them, "Go into all the world, and preach the Good News to the whole creation.


†16:9: NU includes the text of verses 9-20, but mentions in a footnote that a few manuscripts omitted it. The translators of the World English Bible regard Mark 16:9-20 as reliable based on an overwhelming majority of textual evidence, including not only the authoritative Greek Majority Text New Testament, but also the TR and many of the manuscripts cited in the NU text.

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Acts 4:13-21

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and had perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled. They recognised that they had been with Jesus.

14 Seeing the man who was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred amongst themselves,

16 saying, "What shall we do to these men? Because indeed a notable miracle has been done through them, as can be plainly seen by all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we can't deny it.

17 But so that this spreads no further amongst the people, let's threaten them, that from now on they don't speak to anyone in this name."

18 They called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.

19 But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, judge for yourselves,

20 for we can't help telling the things which we saw and heard."

21 When they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people; for everyone glorified God for that which was done.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 11, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_11.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 11, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041115.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/Mark.16

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&chapter=16&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.10.2015

Today's Bible story

April 10, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 21:1-14

1 After these things, Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself this way.

2 Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together.

3 Simon Peter said to them, "I'm going fishing."
They told him, "We are also coming with you." They immediately went out, and entered into the boat. That night, they caught nothing.

4 But when day had already come, Jesus stood on the beach, yet the disciples didn't know that it was Jesus.

5 Jesus therefore said to them, "Children, have you anything to eat?"
They answered him, "No."

6 He said to them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some."
They cast it therefore, and now they weren't able to draw it in for the multitude of fish.

7 That disciple therefore whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It's the Lord!"
So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he wrapped his coat around him (for he was naked), and threw himself into the sea.

8 But the other disciples came in the little boat (for they were not far from the land, but about two hundred cubits* away), dragging the net full of fish.

9 So when they got out on the land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread.

10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish which you have just caught."

11 Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land, full of great fish, one hundred and fifty-three; and even though there were so many, the net wasn't torn.

12 Jesus said to them, "Come and eat breakfast."
None of the disciples dared enquire of him, "Who are you?" knowing that it was the Lord.

13 Then Jesus came and took the bread, gave it to them, and the fish likewise.

14 This is now the third time that Jesus was revealed to his disciples, after he had risen from the dead.


*21:8: 200 cubits is about 100 yards or about 91 metres

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Acts 4:1-12

1 As they spoke to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came to them,

2 being upset because they taught the people and proclaimed in Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

3 They laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was now evening.

4 But many of those who heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.

5 In the morning, their rulers, elders, and scribes were gathered together in Jerusalem.

6 Annas the high priest was there, with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and as many as were relatives of the high priest.

7 When they had stood them in the middle of them, they enquired, "By what power, or in what name, have you done this?"

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "You rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

9 if we are examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed,

10 be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, in him does this man stand here before you whole.

11 He is 'the stone which was regarded as worthless by you, the builders, which has become the head of the corner.'☆

12 There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given amongst men, by which we must be saved!"


☆4:11: Psalm 118:22

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 10, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_10.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 10, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041015.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.21

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=21&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.09.2015

Today's Bible story

April 9, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Luke 24:35-48

35 They related the things that happened along the way, and how he was recognised by them in the breaking of the bread.

36 As they said these things, Jesus himself stood amongst them, and said to them, "Peace be to you."
37 But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.

38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts?

39 See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, as you see that I have."

40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet.

41 While they still didn't believe for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Do you have anything here to eat?"

42 They gave him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb.

43 He took them, and ate in front of them.

44 He said to them, "This is what I told you, while I was still with you, that all things which are written in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms, concerning me must be fulfilled."

45 Then he opened their minds, that they might understand the Scriptures.

46 He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day,

47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

48 You are witnesses of these things.

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Acts 3:11-26

11 As the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.

12 When Peter saw it, he responded to the people, "You men of Israel, why do you marvel at this man? Why do you fasten your eyes on us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made him walk?

13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his Servant Jesus, whom you delivered up, and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had determined to release him.

14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you,

15 and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, to which we are witnesses.

16 By faith in his name, his name has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which is through him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

17 "Now, brothers,† I know that you did this in ignorance, as did also your rulers.

18 But the things which God announced by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he thus fulfilled.

19 "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord,

20 and that he may send Christ Jesus, who was ordained for you before,

21 whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God spoke long ago by the mouth of his holy prophets.

22 For Moses indeed said to the fathers, 'The Lord God will raise up a prophet for you from amongst your brothers, like me. You shall listen to him in all things whatever he says to you.

23 It will be that every soul that will not listen to that prophet will be utterly destroyed from amongst the people.'☆

24 Yes, and all the prophets from Samuel and those who followed after, as many as have spoken, they also told of these days.

25 You are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, 'In your offspring‡ will all the families of the earth be blessed.'☆

26 God, having raised up his servant Jesus, sent him to you first to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your wickedness."


†3:17: The word for "brothers" here may be also correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

☆3:23: Deuteronomy 18:15,18-19

‡3:25: or, seed

☆3:25: Genesis 22:18; 26:4


-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 9, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_09.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 9, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/040915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/Luke.24

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Luke&chapter=24&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.08.2015

Today's Bible story

April 8, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Luke 24:13-35

13 Behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was sixty stadia* from Jerusalem.

14 They talked with each other about all of these things which had happened.

15 While they talked and questioned together, Jesus himself came near, and went with them.

16 But their eyes were kept from recognising him.

17 He said to them, "What are you talking about as you walk, and are sad?"

18 One of them, named Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who doesn't know the things which have happened there in these days?"

19 He said to them, "What things?"
They said to him, "The things concerning Jesus, the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people;

20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him.

21 But we were hoping that it was he who would redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened.

22 Also, certain women of our company amazed us, having arrived early at the tomb;

23 and when they didn't find his body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive.

24 Some of us went to the tomb, and found it just like the women had said, but they didn't see him."
25 He said to them, "Foolish men, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!
26 Didn't the Christ have to suffer these things and to enter into his glory?"

27 Beginning from Moses and from all the prophets, he explained to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

28 They came near to the village, where they were going, and he acted like he would go further.

29 They urged him, saying, "Stay with us, for it is almost evening, and the day is almost over."
He went in to stay with them.

30 When he had sat down at the table with them, he took the bread and gave thanks. Breaking it, he gave to them.

31 Their eyes were opened, and they recognised him, and he vanished out of their sight.

32 They said to one another, "Weren't our hearts burning within us, while he spoke to us along the way, and while he opened the Scriptures to us?"

33 They rose up that very hour, returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and those who were with them,

34 saying, "The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!"

35 They related the things that happened along the way, and how he was recognised by them in the breaking of the bread.


*24:13: 60 stadia = about 11 kilometres or about 7 miles.

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Acts 3:1-10

1 Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour.*

2 A certain man who was lame from his mother's womb was being carried, whom they laid daily at the door of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask gifts for the needy of those who entered into the temple.

3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive gifts for the needy.

4 Peter, fastening his eyes on him, with John, said, "Look at us."

5 He listened to them, expecting to receive something from them.

6 But Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, that I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!"

7 He took him by the right hand, and raised him up. Immediately his feet and his ankle bones received strength.

8 Leaping up, he stood, and began to walk. He entered with them into the temple, walking, leaping, and praising God.

9 All the people saw him walking and praising God.

10 They recognised him, that it was he who used to sit begging for gifts for the needy at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.


*3:1: 3:00 PM

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 8, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_08.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 8, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/040815.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.13

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=13&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

-----

4.07.2015

Today's Bible story

April 7, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 20:11-18

11 But Mary was standing outside at the tomb weeping. So, as she wept, she stooped and looked into the tomb,

12 and she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head, and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.

13 They told her, "Woman, why are you weeping?"
She said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I don't know where they have laid him."

14 When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, and didn't know that it was Jesus.

15 Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Who are you looking for?"
She, supposing him to be the gardener, said to him, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away."

16 Jesus said to her, "Mary."
She turned and said to him, "Rabboni!"* which is to say, "Teacher!"†

17 Jesus said to her, "Don't hold me, for I haven't yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brothers, and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"

18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had said these things to her.


*20:16: Rabboni is a transliteration of the Hebrew word for "great teacher."

†20:16: or, Master

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Acts 2:36-41

36 "Let all the house of Israel therefore know certainly that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified."

37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"

38 Peter said to them, "Repent, and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

39 For the promise is to you, and to your children, and to all who are far off, even as many as the Lord our God will call to himself."

40 With many other words he testified, and exhorted them, saying, "Save yourselves from this crooked generation!"

41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptised. There were added that day about three thousand souls.

-----

◇ The World English Bible
http://ebible.org/web/

◇ April 7, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_04_07.mp3

◇ Daily Readings April 7, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/040715.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.20

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=20&verse=

◇ The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
http://www.usccb.org/bible/books-of-the-bible/index.cfm

◇ Douay-Rheims Bible
http://www.drbo.org/

☆ The Jesus Film (English Version)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pGEv9qXVaY

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