5.31.2015

Today's Bible story

May 31, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20

16 But the eleven disciples went into Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had sent them.

17 When they saw him, they bowed down to him, but some doubted.

18 Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.

19 Go,† and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

20 teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.


†28:19: TR and NU add "therefore"

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Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40

32 For ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that God created man on the earth, and from the one end of the sky to the other, whether there has been anything as this great thing is, or has been heard like it?

33 Did a people ever hear the voice of God speaking out of the middle of the fire, as you have heard, and live?

34 Or has God tried to go and take a nation for himself from amongst another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, by war, by a mighty hand, by an outstretched arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes?

39 Know therefore today, and take it to heart, that the LORD himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath. There is no one else.

40 You shall keep his statutes, and his commandments, which I command you today, that it may go well with you, and with your children after you, and that you may prolong your days in the land, which the LORD your God gives you, forever.

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Romans 8:14-17

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are children of God.

15 For you didn't receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, "Abba!† Father!"

16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God;

17 and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if indeed we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified with him.


†8:15: Abba is an Aramaic word for "Father" or "Daddy", which can be used affectionately and respectfully in prayer to our Father in heaven.

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

◇ May 31, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_31.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 31, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/053115.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/Matt.28

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Matthew&chapter=28&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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5.30.2015

Today's Bible story

May 30, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 11:27-33

27 They came again to Jerusalem, and as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders came to him,

28 and they began saying to him, "By what authority do you do these things? Or who gave you this authority to do these things?"

29 Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.

30 The baptism of John?was it from heaven, or from men? Answer me."

31 They reasoned with themselves, saying, "If we should say, 'From heaven;' he will say, 'Why then did you not believe him?'

32 If we should say, 'From men'"?they feared the people, for all held John to really be a prophet.

33 They answered Jesus, "We don't know."
Jesus said to them, "Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things."

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Sirach 51:12-20

12 For you saved me from destruction,
And delivered me from the evil time:
Therefore will I give thanks and praise to you,
And bless the name of the Lord.

13 When I was yet young,
Or ever I went abroad,
I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.

14 Before the temple I asked for her,
And I will seek her out even to the end.

15 From her flower as from the ripening grape my heart delighted in her:
My foot trod in uprightness,
From my youth I tracked her out.

16 I bowed down mine ear a little, and received her,
And found for myself much instruction.

17 I profited in her:
To him that gives me wisdom I will give glory.

18 For I purposed to practise her,
And I was zealous for that which is good;
And I shall never be put to shame.

19 My soul has wrestled in her,
And in my doing I was exact:
I spread forth my hands to the heaven above,
And bewailed my ignorances of her.

20 I set my soul aright to her,
And in pureness I found her.
I got me a heart joined with her from the beginning:
Therefore shall I not be forsaken.

-----

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

◇ May 30, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_30.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 30, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/053015.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/Mark.11

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&chapter=11&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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5.29.2015

Today's Bible story

May 29, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel: Mark 11:11-26

11 Jesus entered into the temple in Jerusalem. When he had looked around at everything, it being now evening, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.

12 The next day, when they had come out from Bethany, he was hungry.

13 Seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came to see if perhaps he might find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs.

14 Jesus told it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again!" and his disciples heard it.

15 They came to Jerusalem, and Jesus entered into the temple, and began to throw out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers, and the seats of those who sold the doves.

16 He would not allow anyone to carry a container through the temple.

17 He taught, saying to them, "Isn't it written, 'My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations?'☆ But you have made it a den of robbers!"☆

18 The chief priests and the scribes heard it, and sought how they might destroy him. For they feared him, because all the multitude was astonished at his teaching.

19 When evening came, he went out of the city.

20 As they passed by in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered away from the roots.

21 Peter, remembering, said to him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which you cursed has withered away."

22 Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God.

23 For most certainly I tell you, whoever may tell this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' and doesn't doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is happening; he shall have whatever he says.

24 Therefore I tell you, all things whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you have received them, and you shall have them.

25 Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father, who is in heaven, may also forgive you your transgressions.

26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your transgressions."‡


☆11:17: Isaiah 56:7

☆11:17: Jeremiah 7:11

‡11:26: NU omits verse 26.

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Sirach 44:1, 9-13

1 Let us now praise famous men,
And our fathers that became the father of us.

9 And some there be, which have no memorial;
Who are perished as though they had not been,
And are become as though they had not been born;
And their children after them.

10 But these were men of mercy,
Whose righteous deeds have not been forgotten.

11 With their seed shall remain continually a good inheritance;
Their children are § within the covenants.

12 Their seed stands fast,
And their children for their sakes.

13 Their seed shall remain for ever,
And their glory shall not be blotted out.


§44:11: Or, In their testaments

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

◇ May 29, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_29.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 29, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/Mark.11

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&chapter=11&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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5.28.2015

Today's Bible story

May 28, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 10:46-52

46 They came to Jericho. As he went out from Jericho, with his disciples and a great multitude, the son of Timaeus, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the road.

47 When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out, and say, "Jesus, you son of David, have mercy on me!"

48 Many rebuked him, that he should be quiet, but he cried out much more, "You son of David, have mercy on me!"

49 Jesus stood still, and said, "Call him."
They called the blind man, saying to him, "Cheer up! Get up. He is calling you!"

50 He, casting away his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus.

51 Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?"
The blind man said to him, "Rabboni,* that I may see again."

52 Jesus said to him, "Go your way. Your faith has made you well." Immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the way.


*10:51: Rabboni is a transliteration of the Hebrew word for "great teacher."

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Sirach 42:15-25

15 I will make mention now of the works of the Lord,
And will declare the things that I have seen:
In the words of the Lord are his works.

16 The sun that gives light looks upon all things;
And the work of the Lord is full of his glory.

17 The Lord has not given power to the saints to declare all his marvellous works;
Which the Almighty Lord firmly settled,
That whatever is might be established in his glory.

18 He searcheth out the deep, and the heart,
And he has understanding of their cunning devices:
For the Most High knows all knowledge,
And he looks into the § signs of the world,

19 Declaring the things that are past, and the things that shall be,
And revealing the traces of hidden things.

20 No thought escapes him;
There is not a word hid from him.

21 The mighty works of his wisdom he has ordered,
Who is from everlasting to everlasting:
Nothing has been added to them, nor diminished from them;
And he had no need of any counsellor.

22 How desirable are all his works!
One may behold this even to a spark.

23 All these things live and remain for ever in all manner of uses,
And they are all obedient.

24 All things are double one against another:
And he has made nothing imperfect.

25 One thing establishes the good things of another:
And who shall be filled with beholding his glory?


§42:18: Gr. sign.

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

◇ May 28, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_28.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 28, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052815.cfm

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

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&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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5.27.2015

Today's Bible story

May 27, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 10:32-45

32 They were on the way, going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus was going in front of them, and they were amazed; and those who followed were afraid. He again took the twelve, and began to tell them the things that were going to happen to him.

33 "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem. The Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes. They will condemn him to death, and will deliver him to the Gentiles.

34 They will mock him, spit on him, scourge him, and kill him. On the third day he will rise again."

35 James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came near to him, saying, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we will ask."

36 He said to them, "What do you want me to do for you?"

37 They said to him, "Grant to us that we may sit, one at your right hand, and one at your left hand, in your glory."

38 But Jesus said to them, "You don't know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and to be baptised with the baptism that I am baptised with?"

39 They said to him, "We are able."
Jesus said to them, "You shall indeed drink the cup that I drink, and you shall be baptised with the baptism that I am baptised with;

40 but to sit at my right hand and at my left hand is not mine to give, but for whom it has been prepared."

41 When the ten heard it, they began to be indignant towards James and John.

42 Jesus summoned them, and said to them, "You know that they who are recognised as rulers over the nations lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.

43 But it shall not be so amongst you, but whoever wants to become great amongst you shall be your servant.

44 Whoever of you wants to become first amongst you, shall be bondservant of all.

45 For the Son of Man also came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

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Sirach 36:1-2, 5-6, 13, 16-22*

1 Come to our aid, O God of the universe,
look upon us, show us the light of your mercies,

2 and put all the nations in dread of you!

5 Thus they will know, as we know,
that there is no God but you, O Lord.

6 Give new signs and work new wonders.

13 Gather all the tribes of Jacob,

16 that they may inherit the land as of old,

17 Show mercy to the people called by your name;
Israel, whom you named your firstborn.

18 Take pity on your holy city,
Jerusalem, your dwelling place.

19 Fill Zion with your majesty,
your temple with your glory.

20 Give evidence of your deeds of old;
fulfill the prophecies spoken in your name,

21 Reward those who have hoped in you,
and let your prophets be proved true.

22 Hear the prayer of your servants,
for you are ever gracious to your people;
and lead us in the way of justice.
Thus it will be known to the very ends of the earth
that you are the eternal God.

* http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052715.cfm

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

◇ May 27, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_27.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 27, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052715.cfm

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

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&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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5.26.2015

Today's Bible story

May 26, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 10:28-31

28 Peter began to tell him, "Behold, we have left all, and have followed you."

29 Jesus said, "Most certainly I tell you, there is no one who has left house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or land, for my sake, and for the sake of the Good News,

30 but he will receive one hundred times more now in this time, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and land, with persecutions; and in the age to come eternal life.

31 But many who are first will be last; and the last first."

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Sirach 35:1-12

1 He that keeps the law multiplies offerings;
He that takes heed to the commandments sacrifices a peace offering.

2 He that requites a good turn offers fine flour;
And he that gives alms sacrifices a thank offering.

3 To depart from wickedness is a thing pleasing to the Lord;
And to depart from unrighteousness is a propitiation.

4 See that you appear not in the presence of the Lord empty.

5 For all these things are to be done because of the commandment.

6 The offering of the righteous makes the altar fat;
And the sweet savour thereof is before the Most High.

7 The sacrifice of a righteous man is acceptable;
And the memorial thereof shall not be forgotten.

8 Glorify the Lord with a good eye,
And stint not the first fruits of your hands.

9 In every gift show a cheerful countenance,
And dedicate your tithe with gladness.

10 Give to the Most High according as he has given;
And as your hand has found, give with a good eye.

11 For the Lord recompenses,
And he will recompense you sevenfold.

12 Think not to corrupt with gifts; for he will not receive them:
And set not your mind on an unrighteous sacrifice;
For the Lord is judge,
And with him is no respect of persons.

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

◇ May 26, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_26.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 26, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052615.cfm

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

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&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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5.25.2015

Today's Bible story

May 25, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : Mark 10:17-27

17 As he was going out into the way, one ran to him, knelt before him, and asked him, "Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?"

18 Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except one?God.

19 You know the commandments: 'Do not murder,' 'Do not commit adultery,' 'Do not steal,' 'Do not give false testimony,' 'Do not defraud,' 'Honour your father and mother.'"☆

20 He said to him, "Teacher, I have observed all these things from my youth."

21 Jesus looking at him loved him, and said to him, "One thing you lack. Go, sell whatever you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me, taking up the cross."

22 But his face fell at that saying, and he went away sorrowful, for he was one who had great possessions.

23 Jesus looked around, and said to his disciples, "How difficult it is for those who have riches to enter into God's Kingdom!"

24 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus answered again, "Children, how hard is it for those who trust in riches to enter into God's Kingdom!

25 It is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye than for a rich man to enter into God's Kingdom."

26 They were exceedingly astonished, saying to him, "Then who can be saved?"

27 Jesus, looking at them, said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God, for all things are possible with God."


☆10:19: Exodus 20:12-16; Deuteronomy 5:16-20

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Sirach 17:24-29

24 Howbeit to them that repent he granteth a return;
And he comforteth them that are losing patience.

25 Return to the Lord, and forsake sins:
Make your prayer before his face, and lessen the offence.

26 Turn again to the Most High, and turn away from iniquity; ‡‡‡
And greatly hate the abominable thing.

27 Who shall give praise to the Most High in §§§ the grave,
Instead of them which live and return thanks?

28 Thanksgiving perishes from the dead, as from one that is not:
He that is in life and health shall praise the Lord.

29 How great is the mercy of the Lord,
And his forgiveness to them that turn to him!


†††17:22: The remainder of this verse is omitted by the best authorities.

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

◇ May 25, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_25.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 25, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052515.cfm

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

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=Mark&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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5.24.2015

Today's Bible story

May 24, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel: John 15:26-27, 16:12-15

15:26 "When the Counsellor* has come, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will testify about me.

27 You will also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.

16:12 "I have yet many things to tell you, but you can't bear them now.

13 However when he, the Spirit of truth, has come, he will guide you into all truth, for he will not speak from himself; but whatever he hears, he will speak. He will declare to you things that are coming.

14 He will glorify me, for he will take from what is mine, and will declare it to you.

15 All things whatever the Father has are mine; therefore I said that he takes† of mine, and will declare it to you.


*15:26: Greek Parakletos: Counsellor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, and Comforter.

†16:15: TR reads "will take" instead of "takes"

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Acts 2:1-11

1 Now when the day of Pentecost had come, they were all with one accord in one place.

2 Suddenly there came from the sky a sound like the rushing of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

3 Tongues like fire appeared and were distributed to them, and one sat on each of them.

4 They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them the ability to speak.

5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under the sky.

6 When this sound was heard, the multitude came together, and were bewildered, because everyone heard them speaking in his own language.

7 They were all amazed and marvelled, saying to one another, "Behold, aren't all these who speak Galileans?

8 How do we hear, everyone in our own native language?

9 Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, Asia,

10 Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, the parts of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes,

11 Cretans and Arabians: we hear them speaking in our languages the mighty works of God!"

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Galatians 5:16-25

16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you won't fulfil the lust of the flesh.

17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, that you may not do the things that you desire.

18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 Now the deeds of the flesh are obvious, which are: adultery, sexual immorality, uncleanness, lustfulness,

20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousies, outbursts of anger, rivalries, divisions, heresies,

21 envy, murders, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these; of which I forewarn you, even as I also forewarned you, that those who practise such things will not inherit God's Kingdom.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,*

23 gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

24 Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts.

25 If we live by the Spirit, let's also walk by the Spirit.


*5:22: or, faithfulness

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

◇ May 24, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_24.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 24, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052415-pentecost-day.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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5.23.2015

Today's Bible story

May 23, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 21:20-25

20 Then Peter, turning around, saw a disciple following. This was the disciple whom Jesus loved, the one who had also leaned on Jesus' breast at the supper and asked, "Lord, who is going to betray You?"

21 Peter seeing him, said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?"

22 Jesus said to him, "If I desire that he stay until I come, what is that to you? You follow me."

23 This saying therefore went out amongst the brothers,† that this disciple wouldn't die. Yet Jesus didn't say to him that he wouldn't die, but, "If I desire that he stay until I come, what is that to you?"

24 This is the disciple who testifies about these things, and wrote these things. We know that his witness is true.

25 There are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they would all be written, I suppose that even the world itself wouldn't have room for the books that would be written.


†21:23: The word for "brothers" here may be also correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

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Acts 28:16-20, 30-31

16 When we entered into Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard, but Paul was allowed to stay by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

17 After three days Paul called together those who were the leaders of the Jews. When they had come together, he said to them, "I, brothers, though I had done nothing against the people, or the customs of our fathers, still was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans,

18 who, when they had examined me, desired to set me free, because there was no cause of death in me.

19 But when the Jews spoke against it, I was constrained to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything about which to accuse my nation.

20 For this cause therefore I asked to see you and to speak with you. For because of the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain."

30 Paul stayed two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who were coming to him,

31 preaching God's Kingdom, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.

-----

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

◇ May 23, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_23.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 23, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052315.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

-----

5.22.2015

Today's Bible story

May 22, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel: John 21:15-19

15 So when they had eaten their breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me more than these?"
He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I have affection for you."
He said to him, "Feed my lambs."

16 He said to him again a second time, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me?"
He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I have affection for you."
He said to him, "Tend my sheep."

17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you have affection for me?"
Peter was grieved because he asked him the third time, "Do you have affection for me?" He said to him, "Lord, you know everything. You know that I have affection for you."
Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep.

18 Most certainly I tell you, when you were young, you dressed yourself, and walked where you wanted to. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you, and carry you where you don't want to go."

19 Now he said this, signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. When he had said this, he said to him, "Follow me."

-----

Acts 25:13-21

13 Now when some days had passed, King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea, and greeted Festus.

14 As he stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying, "There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix;

15 about whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, asking for a sentence against him.

16 To whom I answered that it is not the custom of the Romans to give up any man to destruction, before the accused has met the accusers face to face, and has had opportunity to make his defence concerning the matter laid against him.

17 When therefore they had come together here, I didn't delay, but on the next day sat on the judgement seat, and commanded the man to be brought.

18 Concerning whom, when the accusers stood up, they brought no charge of such things as I supposed;

19 but had certain questions against him about their own religion, and about one Jesus, who was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

20 Being perplexed how to enquire concerning these things, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters.

21 But when Paul had appealed to be kept for the decision of the emperor, I commanded him to be kept until I could send him to Caesar."

-----

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

◇ May 22, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_22.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 22, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052215.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

-----

5.21.2015

Today's Bible story

May 21, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel: John 17:20-26

20 Not for these only do I pray, but for those also who believe in me through their word,

21 that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that you sent me.

22 The glory which you have given me, I have given to them; that they may be one, even as we are one;

23 I in them, and you in me, that they may be perfected into one; that the world may know that you sent me, and loved them, even as you loved me.

24 Father, I desire that they also whom you have given me be with me where I am, that they may see my glory, which you have given me, for you loved me before the foundation of the world.

25 Righteous Father, the world hasn't known you, but I knew you; and these knew that you sent me.

26 I made known to them your name, and will make it known; that the love with which you loved me may be in them, and I in them."

-----

Acts 22:30, 23:6-11

22:30 But on the next day, desiring to know the truth about why he was accused by the Jews, he freed him from the bonds, and commanded the chief priests and all the council to come together, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

23:6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. Concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!"

7 When he had said this, an arguement arose between the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the crowd was divided.

8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit; but the Pharisees confess all of these.

9 A great clamour arose, and some of the scribes of the Pharisees' part stood up, and contended, saying, "We find no evil in this man. But if a spirit or angel has spoken to him, let's not fight against God!"

10 When a great arguement arose, the commanding officer, fearing that Paul would be torn in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from amongst them, and bring him into the barracks.

11 The following night, the Lord stood by him, and said, "Cheer up, Paul, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must testify also at Rome."

-----

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

◇ May 21, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_21.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 21, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052115.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.17

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=17&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

-----

5.20.2015

Today's Bible story

May 20, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 17:11b-19

11b Holy Father, keep them through your name which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are.

12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in your name. Those whom you have given me I have kept. None of them is lost, except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

13 But now I come to you, and I say these things in the world, that they may have my joy made full in themselves.

14 I have given them your word. The world hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

15 I pray not that you would take them from the world, but that you would keep them from the evil one.

16 They are not of the world even as I am not of the world.

17 Sanctify them in your truth. Your word is truth.☆

18 As you sent me into the world, even so I have sent them into the world.

19 For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth.


☆17:17: Psalm 119:142

-----

Acts 20:28-38

28 Take heed, therefore, to yourselves, and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the assembly of the Lord and ‡ God which he purchased with his own blood.

29 For I know that after my departure, vicious wolves will enter in amongst you, not sparing the flock.

30 Men will arise from amongst your own selves, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.

31 Therefore watch, remembering that for a period of three years I didn't cease to admonish everyone night and day with tears.

32 Now, brothers,§ I entrust you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build up, and to give you the inheritance amongst all those who are sanctified.

33 I coveted no one's silver, or gold, or clothing.

34 You yourselves know that these hands served my necessities, and those who were with me.

35 In all things I gave you an example, that so labouring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

36 When he had spoken these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.

37 They all wept a lot, and fell on Paul's neck and kissed him,

38 sorrowing most of all because of the word which he had spoken, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship.


‡20:28: TR, NU omit "the Lord and"

§20:32: The word for "brothers" here and where the context allows may also be correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

-----

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

◇ May 20, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_20.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 20, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052015.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.17

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=17&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

-----

5.19.2015

Today's Bible story

May 19, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 17:1-11a

1 Jesus said these things, and lifting up his eyes to heaven, he said, "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may also glorify you;

2 even as you gave him authority over all flesh, he will give eternal life to all whom you have given him.

3 This is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and him whom you sent, Jesus Christ.

4 I glorified you on the earth. I have accomplished the work which you have given me to do.

5 Now, Father, glorify me with your own self with the glory which I had with you before the world existed.

6 I revealed your name to the people whom you have given me out of the world. They were yours, and you have given them to me. They have kept your word.

7 Now they have known that all things whatever you have given me are from you,

8 for the words which you have given me I have given to them, and they received them, and knew for sure that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me.

9 I pray for them. I don't pray for the world, but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours.

10 All things that are mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them.

11 I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them through your name which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are.

-----

Acts 20:17-27

17 From Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called to himself the elders of the assembly.

18 When they had come to him, he said to them, "You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you all the time,

19 serving the Lord with all humility, with many tears, and with trials which happened to me by the plots of the Jews;

20 how I didn't shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, teaching you publicly and from house to house,

21 testifying both to Jews and to Greeks repentance towards God, and faith towards our Lord Jesus.†

22 Now, behold, I go bound by the Spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there;

23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions wait for me.

24 But these things don't count; nor do I hold my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to fully testify to the Good News of the grace of God.

25 "Now, behold, I know that you all, amongst whom I went about preaching God's Kingdom, will see my face no more.

26 Therefore I testify to you today that I am clean from the blood of all men,

27 for I didn't shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.


†20:21: TR adds "Christ"

-----

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

◇ May 19, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_19.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 19, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.17

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=17&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

-----

5.18.2015

Today's Bible story

May 18, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 16:29-33

29 His disciples said to him, "Behold, now you speak plainly, and speak no figures of speech.

30 Now we know that you know all things, and don't need for anyone to question you. By this we believe that you came from God."

31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe?

32 Behold, the time is coming, yes, and has now come, that you will be scattered, everyone to his own place, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

33 I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world."

-----

Acts 19:1-8

1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having passed through the upper country, came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples.

2 He said to them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?"
They said to him, "No, we haven't even heard that there is a Holy Spirit."

3 He said, "Into what then were you baptised?"
They said, "Into John's baptism."

4 Paul said, "John indeed baptised with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe in the one who would come after him, that is, in Jesus."

5 When they heard this, they were baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus.

6 When Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke with other languages and prophesied.

7 They were about twelve men in all.

8 He entered into the synagogue, and spoke boldly for a period of three months, reasoning and persuading about the things concerning God's Kingdom.

-----

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

◇ May 18, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_18.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 18, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051815.cfm

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

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

-----

5.17.2015

Today's Bible story

May 17, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

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"

-----

Acts 1:1-11

1 The first book I wrote, Theophilus, concerned all that Jesus began both to do and to teach,

2 until the day in which he was received up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen.

3 To these he also showed himself alive after he suffered, by many proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days, and speaking about God's Kingdom.

4 Being assembled together with them, he commanded them, "Don't depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which you heard from me.

5 For John indeed baptised in water, but you will be baptised in the Holy Spirit not many days from now."

6 Therefore when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, are you now restoring the kingdom to Israel?"

7 He said to them, "It isn't for you to know times or seasons which the Father has set within his own authority.

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth."

9 When he had said these things, as they were looking, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight.

10 While they were looking steadfastly into the sky as he went, behold,* two men stood by them in white clothing,

11 who also said, "You men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who was received up from you into the sky, will come back in the same way as you saw him going into the sky."


*1:10: "Behold", from "?δο?", means look at, take notice, observe, see, or gaze at. It is often used as an interjection.

-----

Ephesians 4:1-13

1 I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to walk worthily of the calling with which you were called,

2 with all lowliness and humility, with patience, bearing with one another in love;

3 being eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you also were called in one hope of your calling;

5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism,

6 one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in us all.

7 But to each one of us was the grace given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

8 Therefore he says, "When he ascended on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men."☆

9 Now this, "He ascended", what is it but that he also first descended into the lower parts of the earth?

10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.

11 He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, shepherds* and teachers;

12 for the perfecting of the saints, to the work of serving, to the building up of the body of Christ;

13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a full grown man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;


☆4:8: Psalm 68:18

*4:11: or, pastors

-----

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

◇ May 17, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_17-ascension.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 17, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051715-ascension.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

-----

5.16.2015

Today's Bible story

May 16, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 16:23b-28

23b " In that day you will ask me no questions.

Most certainly I tell you, whatever you may ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.

24 Until now, you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be made full.

25 I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. But the time is coming when I will no more speak to you in figures of speech, but will tell you plainly about the Father.

26 In that day you will ask in my name; and I don't say to you, that I will pray to the Father for you,

27 for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me, and have believed that I came from God.

28 I came from the Father, and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world, and go to the Father."

-----

Acts 18:23-28

23 Having spent some time there, he departed, and went through the region of Galatia, and Phrygia, in order, establishing all the disciples.

24 Now a certain Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by race, an eloquent man, came to Ephesus. He was mighty in the Scriptures.

25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, although he knew only the baptism of John.

26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside, and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

27 When he had determined to pass over into Achaia, the brothers encouraged him, and wrote to the disciples to receive him. When he had come, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace;

28 for he powerfully refuted the Jews, publicly showing by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.

-----

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

◇ May 16, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_16.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 16, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051615.cfm

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

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

-----

5.15.2015

Today's Bible story

May 15, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 16:20-23

20 Most certainly I tell you, that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy.

21 A woman, when she gives birth, has sorrow, because her time has come. But when she has delivered the child, she doesn't remember the anguish any more, for the joy that a human being is born into the world.

22 Therefore you now have sorrow, but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.

23 "In that day you will ask me no questions. Most certainly I tell you, whatever you may ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.

-----

Acts 18:9-18

9 The Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, "Don't be afraid, but speak and don't be silent;

10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many people in this city."

11 He lived there a year and six months, teaching the word of God amongst them.

12 But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him before the judgement seat,

13 saying, "This man persuades men to worship God contrary to the law."

14 But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If indeed it were a matter of wrong or of wicked crime, you Jews, it would be reasonable that I should bear with you;

15 but if they are questions about words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves. For I don't want to be a judge of these matters."

16 So he drove them from the judgement seat.

17 Then all the Greeks laid hold on Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgement seat. Gallio didn't care about any of these things.

18 Paul, having stayed after this many more days, took his leave of the brothers, * and sailed from there for Syria, together with Priscilla and Aquila. He shaved his head in Cenchreae, for he had a vow.


*18:18: The word for "brothers" here and where the context allows may also be correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

-----

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

◇ May 15, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_15.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 15, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051515.cfm

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

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

-----

5.14.2015

Today's Bible story

May 14, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

-----

Gospel : John 15:9-17

9 Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you. Remain in my love.

10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and remain in his love.

11 I have spoken these things to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be made full.

12 "This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you.

13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

14 You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you.

15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn't know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you.

16 You didn't choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatever you will ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

17 "I command these things to you, that you may love one another.

-----

Acts 5:12-32

12 By the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done amongst the people. They were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.

13 None of the rest dared to join them, however the people honoured them.

14 More believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women.

15 They even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on cots and mattresses, so that as Peter came by, at the least his shadow might overshadow some of them.

16 The multitude also came together from the cities around Jerusalem, bringing sick people, and those who were tormented by unclean spirits: and they were all healed.

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.

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

◇ May 14, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_14.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 14, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051415.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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5.13.2015

Today's Bible story

May 13, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 16:12-15

12 "I have yet many things to tell you, but you can't bear them now.

13 However when he, the Spirit of truth, has come, he will guide you into all truth, for he will not speak from himself; but whatever he hears, he will speak. He will declare to you things that are coming.

14 He will glorify me, for he will take from what is mine, and will declare it to you.

15 All things whatever the Father has are mine; therefore I said that he takes† of mine, and will declare it to you.


†16:15: TR reads "will take" instead of "takes"

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Acts 17:15, 22-18:1

15 But those who escorted Paul brought him as far as Athens. Receiving a commandment to Silas and Timothy that they should come to him very quickly, they departed.

22 Paul stood in the middle of the Areopagus, and said, "You men of Athens, I perceive that you are very religious in all things.

23 For as I passed along, and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: 'TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.' What therefore you worship in ignorance, this I announce to you.

24 The God who made the world and all things in it, he, being Lord of heaven and earth, doesn't dwell in temples made with hands,

25 neither is he served by men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he himself gives to all life and breath, and all things.

26 He made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the surface of the earth, having determined appointed seasons, and the boundaries of their dwellings,

27 that they should seek the Lord, if perhaps they might reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.

28 'For in him we live, and move, and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'For we are also his offspring.'

29 Being then the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold, or silver, or stone, engraved by art and design of man.

30 The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked. But now he commands that all people everywhere should repent,

31 because he has appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by the man whom he has ordained; of which he has given assurance to all men, in that he has raised him from the dead."

32 Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked; but others said, "We want to hear you again concerning this."

33 Thus Paul went out from amongst them.

34 But certain men joined with him, and believed, amongst whom also was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

18:1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth.

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

◇ May 13, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_13.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 13, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051315.cfm

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

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&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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5.12.2015

Today's Bible story

May 12, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 16:5-11

5 But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, 'Where are you going?'

6 But because I have told you these things, sorrow has filled your heart.

7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is to your advantage that I go away, for if I don't go away, the Counsellor won't come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.

8 When he has come, he will convict the world about sin, about righteousness, and about judgement;

9 about sin, because they don't believe in me;

10 about righteousness, because I am going to my Father, and you won't see me any more;

11 about judgement, because the prince of this world has been judged.

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Acts 16:22-34

22 The multitude rose up together against them, and the magistrates tore their clothes off of them, and commanded them to be beaten with rods.

23 When they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely,

24 who, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison, and secured their feet in the stocks.

25 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were loosened.

27 The jailer, being roused out of sleep and seeing the prison doors open, drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped.

28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, "Don't harm yourself, for we are all here!"

29 He called for lights, sprang in, fell down trembling before Paul and Silas,

30 brought them out, and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"

31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household."

32 They spoke the word of the Lord to him, and to all who were in his house.

33 He took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was immediately baptised, he and all his household.

34 He brought them up into his house, and set food before them, and rejoiced greatly, with all his household, having believed in God.

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

◇ May 12, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_12.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 12, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051215.cfm

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

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&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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5.11.2015

Today's Bible story

May 11, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 15:26-16:4a

15:26 "When the Counsellor* has come, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will testify about me.

27 You will also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.

16:1 "These things have I spoken to you, so that you wouldn't be caused to stumble.

2 They will put you out of the synagogues. Yes, the time comes that whoever kills you will think that he offers service to God.

3 They will do these things* because they have not known the Father, nor me.

4a But I have told you these things, so that when the time comes, you may remember that I told you about them.


*15:26: Greek Parakletos: Counsellor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, and Comforter.

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Acts 16:11-15

11 Setting sail therefore from Troas, we made a straight course to Samothrace, and the day following to Neapolis;

12 and from there to Philippi, which is a city of Macedonia, the foremost of the district, a Roman colony. We were staying some days in this city.

13 On the Sabbath day we went outside of the city by a riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down, and spoke to the women who had come together.

14 A certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, one who worshipped God, heard us; whose heart the Lord opened to listen to the things which were spoken by Paul.

15 When she and her household were baptised, she begged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and stay." So she persuaded us.

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

◇ May 11, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_11.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 11, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051115.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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5.10.2015

Today's Bible story

May 10, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 15:9-17

9 Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you. Remain in my love.

10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and remain in his love.

11 I have spoken these things to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be made full.

12 "This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you.

13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

14 You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you.

15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn't know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you.

16 You didn't choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatever you will ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

17 "I command these things to you, that you may love one another.

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Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48

25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him, fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.

26 But Peter raised him up, saying, "Stand up! I myself am also a man."

34 Peter opened his mouth and said, "Truly I perceive that God doesn't show favouritism;

35 but in every nation he who fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the word.

45 They of the circumcision who believed were amazed, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was also poured out on the Gentiles.

46 For they heard them speaking in other languages and magnifying God.
Then Peter answered,

47 "Can anyone forbid these people from being baptised with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just like us."

48 He commanded them to be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay some days.

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1 John 4:7-10

7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves has been born of God, and knows God.

8 He who doesn't love doesn't know God, for God is love.

9 By this God's love was revealed in us, that God has sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son as the atoning sacrifice* for our sins.


*4:10: "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.

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

◇ May 10, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_10.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 10, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/051015.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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5.09.2015

Today's Bible story

May 9, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 15:18-21

18 If the world hates you, you know that it has hated me before it hated you.

19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. But because you are not of the world, since I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.

20 Remember the word that I said to you: 'A servant is not greater than his lord.'☆ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will keep yours also.

21 But all these things will they do to you for my name's sake, because they don't know him who sent me.


☆15:20: John 13:16

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Acts 16:1-10

1 He came to Derbe and Lystra: and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewess who believed; but his father was a Greek.

2 The brothers who were at Lystra and Iconium gave a good testimony about him.

3 Paul wanted to have him go out with him, and he took and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those parts; for they all knew that his father was a Greek.

4 As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered the decrees to them to keep which had been ordained by the apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem.

5 So the assemblies were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily.

6 When they had gone through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia.

7 When they had come opposite Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit didn't allow them.

8 Passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas.

9 A vision appeared to Paul in the night. There was a man of Macedonia standing, begging him, and saying, "Come over into Macedonia and help us."

10 When he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go out to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the Good News to them.

-----

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

◇ May 9, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_09.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 9, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/050915.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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5.08.2015

Today's Bible story

May 8, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 15:12-17

12 "This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you.

13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

14 You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you.

15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn't know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you.

16 You didn't choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatever you will ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

17 "I command these things to you, that you may love one another.

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Acts 15:22-31

22 Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole assembly, to choose men out of their company, and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas: Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, chief men amongst the brothers. ‡

23 They wrote these things by their hand:
"The apostles, the elders, and the brothers, to the brothers who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: greetings.

24 Because we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, 'You must be circumcised and keep the law,' to whom we gave no commandment;

25 it seemed good to us, having come to one accord, to choose out men and send them to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

26 men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who themselves will also tell you the same things by word of mouth.

28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay no greater burden on you than these necessary things:

29 that you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality, from which if you keep yourselves, it will be well with you. Farewell."

30 So, when they were sent off, they came to Antioch. Having gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter.

31 When they had read it, they rejoiced over the encouragement.


‡15:22: The word for "brothers" here and where the context allows may also be correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."

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

◇ May 8, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_054_08.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 8, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/050815.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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5.07.2015

Today's Bible story

May 7, 2015

We hope that today is a good day.

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Gospel : John 15:9-11

9 Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you. Remain in my love.

10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and remain in his love.

11 I have spoken these things to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be made full.

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Acts 15:7-21

7 When there had been much discussion, Peter rose up and said to them, "Brothers, you know that a good while ago God made a choice amongst you, that by my mouth the nations should hear the word of the Good News, and believe.

8 God, who knows the heart, testified about them, giving them the Holy Spirit, just like he did to us.

9 He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith.

10 Now therefore why do you tempt God, that you should put a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

11 But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, † just as they are."

12 All the multitude kept silence, and they listened to Barnabas and Paul reporting what signs and wonders God had done amongst the nations through them.

13 After they were silent, James answered, "Brothers, listen to me.

14 Simeon has reported how God first visited the nations, to take out of them a people for his name.

15 This agrees with the words of the prophets. As it is written,

16 'After these things I will return.
I will again build the tabernacle of David, which has fallen.
I will again build its ruins.
I will set it up,

17 That the rest of men may seek after the Lord;
all the Gentiles who are called by my name,
says the Lord, who does all these things.☆

18 All of God's works are known to him from eternity.'

19 "Therefore my judgement is that we don't trouble those from amongst the Gentiles who turn to God,

20 but that we write to them that they abstain from the pollution of idols, from sexual immorality, from what is strangled, and from blood.

21 For Moses from generations of old has in every city those who preach him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath."


†15:11: TR adds "Christ"

☆15:17: Amos 9:11-12

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

◇ May 7, 2015 Daily Mass Reading
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/15_05_07.mp3

◇ Daily Readings May 7, 2015
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/050715.cfm

◇ Zondervan King James Audio Bible
http://www.biblegateway.com/audio/dramatized/kjv/John.15

◇ King James Version Bible Online
http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/book.php?book=John&chapter=15&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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