Peace Has Come

Today is a day for declaring our intention to live a life that matters, a life of radical generosity that holds all our possessions and our very lives lightly. It is a life of taking the long view. A life of belonging to the truth, a truth that transcends individual limited perspective and allows the community to hear the voice of Christ as the guide and hope for living a life that matters. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Intimate Rise by Cody Martin Recovery by Fantoms Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

We often read Jesus' warnings, these apocalyptic texts, and tend to either have fear or bring fear on who hears them. But Jesus seems to be asking for something different from that. We know that he never has much time for fear as a tool. He is always chastising the fearful, even while he is gentle with the doubters. While he sometimes seems to be saying "live in the moment," here, he argues that we need to take the long view. This isn't all that there is. There is more to come, a world you can barely imagine and can only glimpse from afar right now. Whatever this might be for you right now, this doesn't define who you are and who you will be. NOTES: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media MUSIC: Worth Waiting For by Adrian Walther Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Like many of Jesus' statements, he again challenges us to a new way to live. You can imagine his disciples would have given an odd look when Jesus says the widow gave more. Their logical brains could not hear beyond the tiny clinks of the coins. But Jesus might have looked at them and said she put in more. More because the scribes gave out of their excess, whereas she put in her whole life. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Home Coming by Caleb Etheridge Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today may be Halloween in our secular culture, but I would like to call us back to the traditional Christian observance of All Saints Day. This day is a call to remember those saints who have gone before us. Who have led us and drawn us into a relationship with Jesus. The Celtic Christians called a space like today a “thin place,” where this world and the next have moved so close together that it was as if one could go from one place to the other. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: In Quiet by The Culprit Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

We have come to the end of this brief synopsis of Job's story. We have discussed tragedy, pain, the unknown, and the mystery of who God is. Now, it is time to celebrate. This is the happy ending to Job's story. We can continue to read this chapter and see God's rewarding Job for his faithfulness. He received even more than he had before. This is the happy ending we have been waiting for! Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Life In Wonder by Moments Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Can you imagine how this scene must have sounded? The picture painted in this passage is stunning, but I just wish we could hear the actual audio. Since I first read this story, I have only read the LORD's response as one of righteous anger. “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?” God sounds angry, doesn't he? But will you allow me to speculate for a moment? What if God was speaking with authority but was not speaking with anger in his voice? Reread these words this week, and for that matter, read the rest of God's response to Job. In many ways, it is some of the most beautiful poetry the Bible holds. The descriptive phrases used to personify the Creator are majestic and inspiring. Of course, this is the authority of God speaking to Job and reminding Job who He is. He is the Creator. He is the one who laid the foundations of existence in place. Again, I ask, what if God isn't angry, but maybe, just maybe, God is actually trying to remind Job who is on his side. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Mansion On The Hill by Solitude Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Have you ever cried out to God and felt you were not heard? In this passage of scripture, we find Job crying out, only to feel as though no one is listening. Job gives voice to this pain. "Oh, that I knew where I might find him," he declared in bitterness. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Fractured Light by Stephen Keech Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Why do we study the book of Job? Is it still meaningful to us today? Well, is there suffering in the world? Are there people who have lost everything? Of course, there is, and of course, there are. That's what makes this book so compelling. It is real life; it asks real questions; it wrestles with the truth in humbling and transforming ways. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Nocturne In Eb Maj by Amanda Welch Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Do you believe your prayers are still answered? Can you read what James writes and nod your head in agreement? I remember hearing about the prayer services that would go all night. I have heard about the miraculous healings that came through fervent prayer. I have heard the term “prayed-through” time and again. But, I can't help but wonder if we have forgotten the power of prayer. But James, the doer, the one who says our actions are an indicator of our faith, ends his letter reminding us of the power of prayer. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Where The Light Is (Stripped) by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

James places a great deal of importance on our actions. Not our actions as a way to salvation, but in a way that our efforts will show the world we follow King Jesus. If I can be honest, I sometimes wonder if we have found it too easy to allow our choosing to follow Jesus merely to be a statement and not a way of life. How often are the followers of Jesus the ones who have bitterness and jealousy in their hearts? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: The Coldest Part (Stripped) by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

This year, the American West has been ravaged by wildfires. These uncontained blazes start with a single spark and burn without regard to anything in their paths. Isn't it odd that James would liken something so small and insignificant as the tongue to an out-of-control forest fire? However, when we think about it, maybe what James says isn't that much of a stretch. We have all been in situations where we were hurt by words, or our words have hurt someone else. The power of words is an uncanny power that James even says we are unable to control! No human can tame the tongue! If that is the case, why do we even try? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: The Water (Stripped) by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Maybe we aren't prone to prop someone up because of their wealth. But how do we treat people of a different race, gender, or orientation? Do we continually find ways to be partial toward some and not others? Listen, I get it. This is a considerable challenge, and I believe it has been an ongoing battle in the church since James wrote his letter. But can't we read James' words that echo the words of Christ? “ If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well.” It is a real challenge, but James is challenging our faith. Do we really believe that Jesus' way is the best way? Or have we too often allowed our own preferences to dictate our faith? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Alluvial by Wild Wonder Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

The book of James is short but intense. Tradition holds that this James is the younger brother of Jesus, the same James who begins to lead the early Jerusalem church in Acts. With that in mind, it seems that he might know a thing or two about what it takes to follow Jesus. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Wonderland by DaMarcus VanBuren Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

For many of us, reading through the armor of God might seem familiar. Some of us might even remember a song or two about this passage. No matter how many times we have read this passage or heard about the armor, I believe it is still meaningful to us today. The author of Ephesians wants us to realize that we are not left without resources as we seek to be made disciples and to make disciples. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: 2 AM by Sons Of Anne Harky Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

As we continue to walk through Ordinary Time in the church calendar, we have a special guest joining us. Kyle Lee and his family live in Oklahoma City, where he is an elementary school teacher. Kyle is a dear friend of mine, and in many ways, we have been learning about the church calendar and ancient church practices together. Today, we will hear how Kyle's faith journey has shifted his landscape over the last few years, what daily practices and habits he has added to his life, and more. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber The Eternal Current The Book of Common Prayer The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry Garden City Daily Lessons from the Saints Every Moment Holy Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Pulse by OBOY Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

According to the author of Ephesians, there is little doubt. We are to be like God. We are to be imitators of God. No pressure, huh? What does it mean to be an imitator of God? Well, it is to walk in love, as Christ loved us. Being a Christian is being Christ-Like. Being Christ-Like is walking in a manner that loves others just as Christ loves us. A love that will sacrifice life itself to serve. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Through The Valley by Andy Ellison Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Can we ever learn to live a life that is worthy of the calling of Christ? Even if this seems unattainable, Paul thought it at least something worth attempting. He urges Christ's followers to live worthy of this calling. Live in humility and gentleness. Walk in patience and bear with one another in love. Paul continues by telling us why we do this; to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Paul is urging us to live a life of unity with God and unity with one another. How are you doing with this calling? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Headspace by Reveille Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

The only way we can know something as deep as the love of God is through the sharing of our life with Him. How do you understand anyone's love? You know, by living it, by sharing it, by talking about it. Our prayers and our songs should be full of the experience of being loved into wholeness, being “rooted and grounded” in love, so that we can begin to see that all our actions, all our doing in the world is motivated or in response to the love that defines us. We can know the love of Christ by sharing our life with him and then, as an outflow, by sharing our life with others. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: First Light by Half Measure Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

I'm sure we've all heard the phrase, “us versus them.” A mentality that if you aren't for me, then you are against me. This has been the way of humanity since Cain and Abel, hasn't it? We immerse ourselves in competitions, real or imagined. In many ways, we do the exact things the church in Ephesus was doing when Paul sent his letter. They were building walls and creating division. We have become a society that is excellent at building walls and embracing division. I mean, without trying to get political, wasn't a “wall” a primary talking point in the 2016 election? The truth is, we love our walls. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Hard to Believe by Half Measure Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

This good news is not to be celebrated and hidden; however, this good news is meant to be shared. We who have received will offer public praises for his works, and as a result, we are to share this news with others. As mentioned last week, living with Jesus is all about relationships, and what better way to share in the relationship-building than by offering the good news to those we meet and befriend? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Pray for Rain by Half Measure Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Jesus sends out the twelve to create a new community. He wants them to build relationships, care for those they meet. He wants them to trust them and make themselves at home with them. “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there.” Jesus wants the disciples to build a new home with their new community! A new home. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Brick by Brick by Half Measure Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

When asked what makes Christianity distinct from other world religions, C.S. Lewis responded, “That's easy, it's grace.” Grace is what makes us who we are as followers of Jesus Christ. Grace is what motivates us to respond with love and joy, and hope. It is what we have to offer the world, nothing of our own, but the gifts that come from grace. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Brushes by Pete Stewart Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

When we consider the storms of life, they might always catch us unprepared. Like the disciples in the boat, we might find ourselves crying out in fear. It's interesting that when Jesus calms the storm, the words Mark quotes are, “Peace! Be Still!” These words are the exact words Jesus used to cast out demons. It is translated as “Be Quiet! Come out of her!” So, it's not a stretch to consider that this storm is implied to have an evil or demonic nature in need of the Savior's touch. Today, we still need Jesus to help us eradicate the evil in our lives and this world. The hand of the Savior is the only thing that can truly calm the evil storms we encounter. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Mine by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Jesus wants us to understand that by following him, we are growing into a new creation. Just as these seeds in the field or this tiny mustard seed become something of great use to the world, we become something of great service in the Kingdom of God. We see that all of these things work together to knit together a world that is entirely like the one we see but distinctly other. A distinctly better world. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: A Good One by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

I'm sure you've heard the phrase, “you can't go home again.” Have you ever uttered it yourself? Sometimes it is true, going back home after some time leads to different remembrances. Sometimes it leads to terrible memories. Occasionally, the people who are still home can't see the ways you've changed. Maybe you will always be the little kid running around the neighborhood. Jesus had tough times returning home as well. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Brighter, Deeper by VISITANTS Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is the first Sunday after Pentecost and the beginning of Ordinary Time in the church calendar. The term, Ordinary Time, might be misleading, as it is not a lesser time in our walk with Jesus. The word simply helps to explain how extraordinary the moments between Advent and Pentecost are. Special days are still celebrated during Ordinary Time, with today being the first. This day is Trinity Sunday. One week after the coming of the Holy Spirit, Trinity Sunday serves to help the church recognize the triune Godhead of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is no accident that this week’s Gospel reading comes from John 3. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: We Can Begin Again by Joshua Spacht Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is Pentecost Sunday, a celebration full of joy and awe. Although sometimes overlooked or downplayed, Pentecost plays a crucial role in the story of salvation. Theologian, Robert Webber, says, “In order to bring God’s people into a full experience of the Good News, an emphasis on Pentecost is necessary.” Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Going Home by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

On the final Sunday of Easter, it is appropriate that we remember Jesus’ prayer over his disciples. In this short passage of scripture, there is so much to analyze, but maybe it is easiest to focus on verse 11: And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. Unity is a common theme in scripture and the church. Still, when we look at the world today, it might be hard to find an authentic, unified community. It is Jesus’ prayer that we walk in unity, just as the Trinity works in unity. May his followers be one, as The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one. Being in unity does not mean we have lost our individuality. It does not mean we can’t recognize and shouldn’t strive for diversity in the church. Instead, the differences make the whole. Being in unity acknowledges that we need each other. We cannot do this alone. Jesus understands our need for unity in this prayer, and it is something I desperately want to capture today. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Bloom In The Dark–Live by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Jesus exemplifies the love of God like no other. He and the Father are one, and God is love; thus, Jesus is love. In this passage, Jesus is giving final instructions to the disciples before He is crucified. His commandment: Love one another. As we celebrate the sixth Sunday of Easter, may we hear these words of Jesus. In my opinion, loving one another is counter-cultural to our current society. The word “love” is used in abundance, but the act of loving one another is few and far between. We can love ourselves, take care of ourselves and meet our needs, but what about expressing these actions toward others? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: This Love by Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Abiding in Jesus. It seems so simple. Of course, if staying close to Jesus is so easy, why do we stray so far? Last week, we noted that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the one who will lead us beside still waters. On the fifth Sunday of Easter, we see that Jesus is not only the one who cares for us, but he is the one who gives us life. Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” We can do nothing without Jesus, yet so many times, we try to go it alone. I feel the challenge to stay close to Jesus. Honestly, every day, it is a challenge. The world throws so many things our way, it is easy to place our focus on the day-to-day misgivings of life, but Jesus would call us to cast aside what the world sends us and merely stay close to him. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Ice and Snow by Acreage Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

The fourth Sunday of Easter is traditionally focused on Christ as the Good Shepherd. In this passage, Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd. One who would lay his life down for his sheep. A shepherd lives with his sheep. Not only does he know each of them, but the sheep know his voice. They know the shepherd's scent and the touch of his hand. The sheep will only follow one shepherd. This is so poignantly stated in Psalm 23, when the Psalmist writes, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake." The sheep will follow the shepherd's lead because they know his voice, and they know he will do anything to provide for them. A true shepherd will protect the sheep at all costs, and as a result, the sheep will follow the shepherd's guiding voice. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Petals by Gold Coast Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

On the Third Sunday of Easter, I want to ask the question, is any of this real? Last week, we discussed believing without seeing. How our faith must be such that we can trust Jesus is the son of God, even if we can’t see him as Thomas and the disciples did. But, in our scripture passage today, we see a slightly different side of Jesus. “Touch me, and see For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is encouraging his followers to touch him and look upon him. He even ate real food in front of them! This is slightly different than John’s emphasis on believing without seeing. Why now is he so concerned with them seeing and believing? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Stay (Feat. Jessie Villa) by Nu Alkemi$t Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is the Second Sunday of Easter. Yes, much like Christmas in the church tradition is more than one day. Easter is a celebration that carries us into Pentecost. Robert Webber says, “Easter is a time to call the church back to its roots,” and I believe this call is just as relevant today. Traditionally, the Second Sunday of Easter focuses on the story of Thomas and his unbelief. We might know this as the story of “Doubting Thomas,” but that might not be a proper name for this follower of Jesus. In my opinion, he probably wasn’t any less inclined to believe Jesus had risen as the rest of the disciples; he just happened to not be in the room when Jesus appeared. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Weightless by Caleb Etheridge Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is Easter Sunday. It is the culmination of the Christian story. Easter is the recognition that Christ is truly the Son of God and Savior of the world. He has shown power over death and the grave. Today is a day of celebration for all followers of Jesus. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Shores by Greater Still Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today marks the beginning of Holy Week, which commemorates the final week of Jesus’ life before being crucified. Traditionally, this week is the most challenging week of Lent, as it asks us to walk prayerfully with Christ toward certain death. But, as mentioned when we began the observance of Lent, death is not the end, but it is, in fact, a glorious new beginning with our Creator. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Not All Who Wander are Lost by Greater Still Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Have you ever lost something that you can’t live without? Car keys, money, the TV remote? Have you ever lost something that is very near to you? An heirloom? Someone who is close to you? Throughout the course of life, we will encounter loss, and it is never fun. It hurts to lose something or someone that truly matters to us. Yet, in this passage, we hear Jesus say that it is by losing something that we really gain. “Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” What is Jesus asking of us? Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Remember by Gold Coast Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

The fourth Sunday of Lent is commonly known as “Rose Sunday.” As opposed to the previous weeks, it is a Sunday that strikes a more joyous note. It begins to shift our focus ever so slightly from an emphasis on our repentance to that of Christ’s healing power. Today, we recognize the joy that comes from salvation. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: The Lights Within by Moments Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

As we walk steadily toward the cross, we come across an interesting portion of scripture. We commonly refer to this moment as "Jesus cleansing the temple," we might be more accurate in saying this is Jesus' protest against the temple system. Quoting the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah, Jesus calls into question the heart behind the religious elite. At this moment, he prophecies of a new temple being built, one that Christ will make. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Still Waters by Greater Still Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

As we enter into the second Sunday of Lent, we face the challenge of denial. In this passage, Jesus asks any who would follow to deny themselves of anything that would hinder them from following him. On the surface, this is a tall task. Deep in our souls, it is even more difficult than our flesh can imagine! If we are not careful, the power of evil has a strong pull on our lives. It’s interesting how evil can even hide inside seemingly good things? Chocolate, anyone? In my opinion, one of the modern evils we are facing is that of self-centeredness. I promise I am not trying to go on a rant here, but it stuns me how self-centered our world has become. There are many things to blame, including social media, but I would instead focus on the solution than the problem. When I read the words of Jesus, I see that the solution is to deny our desires. The desire to build a platform. The desires of being unable to look beyond ourselves. The desire of gratifying our wants with instantaneous, if not short-lived, gratification. All of these desires are the things Jesus is asking us to give up. Denying ourselves is a big ask, but I think Jesus follows up his big ask by reassuring us that in the end, it will be worth it. Jesus repeatedly mentions how anything we build on earth is pointless once our life is over. But our soul? Our soul can live on. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Retreat by Chelsea McGough Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today marks the first Sunday of Lent, a time when we journey with Christ into death and are reborn through his resurrection. In Mark’s Gospel, one line tells us a dramatic story. “And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.” The early church fathers often used this scripture to compare Adam and his temptation in the garden, with Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Paul often uses the terms first Adam and second Adam to describe their purpose in this story of redemption. According to Robert Webber, “the first Adam did something to us. He brought sin, death, and condemnation and triggered the chain of events that brought ruin to the human family. But the second Adam did something for us. He reversed what the first Adam did, bringing life, righteousness, and justification and setting into motion a new chain of events that will eventually bring redemption to the whole world.” Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Rest by Acreage Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. If you grew up in a protestant background similar to mine, Lent might be an unfamiliar season for you. It was only eight years ago that I began to look into what the season of Lent really means. In short, Lent is a time for repentance. As the theologian, Robert Webber puts it, “Lent calls us back to God, back to basics, back to the spiritual realities of life. It calls us to put to death the sin and the indifference we have in our hearts toward God and our fellow persons. And it beckons us to enter once again into the joy of the Lord–the joy of a new life born out of death to the old life.” Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: It's Always Darkest Before Dawn by Hill Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is Transfiguration Sunday. A time when we embrace the mysterious moment when Jesus was changed before the eyes of Peter, James, and John. Changed into what exactly? We don’t know, but something about Jesus changed so dramatically that the church has been trying to properly explain it ever since. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Wandering About by Be Still the Earth Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

How often do you actively think about servanthood? Is it something you actively pursue? As we continue reading through Mark’s Gospel, we come across a brief encounter that Jesus has with Simon’s Mother-in-Law. Upon entering Simon’s house, we find that his mother-in-law is sick and in bed. Without mentioning much to anyone, Mark tells us that Jesus walked to her side, took her by the hand, lifted her up, and immediately she was healed. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Eggshell Skyline by Pete Cody Martin Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today, each of us has the opportunity to follow this Messiah. The one who speaks with authority and acts with love and justice. When I read the man's story with the unclean spirit, I can't help but imagine myself in his shoes. Just as Christ changed his life and purified it of this evil, he is doing the same in my life. Since the day I decided to become a disciple of Jesus, my life has been renewing and eliminating evil in my soul. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Wings on Butterflies by Pete Stewart Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

How do we use our words today? Only a few words can make a difference. The frightening thing to me is how I may be completely unaware of what kind of difference my words might make to someone. It is a consequential responsibility, especially for anyone who would claim to be a follower of Jesus. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Azure by Alice in Winter Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

In the first chapter of John’s Gospel, we find the calling of Nathanael. In John 1:43-46, we read, “The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Nathanael has an opinion of where Jesus grew up. “How could anything good come from Nazareth?” Why did Nathanael respond to Phillip this way? Truthfully, we don’t know. For me, though, it is hard to read his response without putting it into the context of our current world. When I read Nathanael’s reaction to Phillip, I cannot help but wonder how often I have looked down on someone because of where they came from or what their education or social status might be. Truthfully, it is way too easy to judge a book by its cover. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Mondays by Simple Thieves Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

For many of the Christian faith, today marks the observance of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. In Mark, chapter one, “In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased.” Place yourself in the river with John the Baptist and Jesus. The river is flowing downstream, time passing from here to eternity. As John dunks Jesus below the surface, suddenly the divide between heaven and earth is eliminated. God anoints his son as just that: the Son of God. As John and the other witnesses observed, this was not only a man born under unique circumstances; he was truly divine. Why was Jesus baptized? He was baptized to fulfill the prophecies of the Lamb, who would come to take away the sins of the world. From the waters of the Jordan to the cross, Jesus' path is now set in motion. But, this story is not only about Jesus. It is also about us. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Anything but Ordinary by Acreage Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today is the Second Sunday After Christmas, but I would like to observe a day that will happen later this week, on January 6. Traditionally, January 6 marks the end of Christmas and the beginning of Epiphany. This is a Christian holiday commemorating the first manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, represented by the Magi, and his divinity. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? Full Show Notes This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Lavender by Acreage Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Merry Christmas, everyone. That’s right; it is still Christmas according to the church calendar. Today is the first Sunday after Christmas and the third day of Christmastide. Christmastide is the celebration set aside for the church, beginning on Christmas Day and ending with Epiphany. A traditional reading for the first Sunday after Christmas is Simeon and Anna encountering the baby Jesus at the temple. In Luke 2, verses 22-40, we read that Simeon was a devout man who received word from the Holy Spirit that he would see the prophesied Messiah with his own eyes. Anna was a widow who spent night and day in the temple, praying and fasting. Her commitment was unceasing. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Auld Lang Syne by The Seasons Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Today, on Christmas, may I encourage you to take heart. Salvation has come. A light shines in the darkness, and the world will not overcome it. Notes: Daily Readings Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: In Your Eyes by Great Oaks Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support

Why did Jesus come to earth? Because of God’s love for His creation. In a world that often falls short of giving love to others, God found the perfect moment to fulfill his love to the earth. Through Jesus’ advent, not only can we know the love of God, but we can share the love of God with others. Notes: Daily Readings Advent Spotify Playlist Ancient-Future Time, by Robert E. Webber Would you consider supporting this podcast? This Road is a production of Worthwhile.Media Music: Silent Night by Moments and Emorie Licensed through soundstripe.com – Use code WORTHWHILE to get 10% off your subscription! (Full Disclosure: Using Soundstripe through this link does give Worthwhile Media a small % – Thank you in advance!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thisroad/support