Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

The King is coming. Are you ready?In this episode of The King is Coming, we turn to Jesus's letter to the church at Smyrna—a suffering, persecuted church that receives no rebuke, only encouragement. They are materially poor, but spiritually rich. Jesus calls them to remain faithful unto death, with the promise of the crown of life and victory over the second death.In this conversation, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison discuss:✔️ Jesus as “the First and the Last, who died and came to life”✔️ Why the Christians in Smyrna were poor in possessions but rich in faith✔️ The reality of spiritual persecution and the courage to endure✔️ The crown of life promised to those who remain faithful✔️ What it means that “the one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death”This letter reminds us that Jesus walks with His suffering people. He sees, He knows, and He promises life beyond death for those who are His. The persecuted church—then and now—testifies to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ."He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 2:11)

He Who Promised is FaithfulA Holy Week Devotional SeriesJourney through Holy Week by looking back to the promises God made long before Jesus entered Jerusalem. This devotional series—He Who Promised is Faithful—explores Old Testament prophecies and poetic declarations that find their fulfillment in Christ.Each day from Palm Sunday to Resurrection Sunday includes a brief devotion to help you reflect on God's Word and His faithfulness. These are more than devotions—they are invitations to marvel at the goodness of God, hold fast to His promises, and long for the return of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ.

The King is coming. Are you ready?In this episode of The King is Coming, we begin our study of Jesus's seven letters to the churches by looking at His message to Ephesus—a church full of good works but lacking one essential thing: love.Join Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison as they explore:✔️ The five-part structure of each letter in Revelation 2–3✔️ Jesus's praise for the Ephesian church's perseverance, discernment, and hard work✔️ The serious warning against abandoning their first love✔️ The call to remember, repent, and return✔️ The promise to those who conquer through faith in ChristJesus walks among His churches. He sees everything—not just what we do, but why we do it. In His words to Ephesus, He calls His people back to a love-driven faith, reminding them that faith without love is incomplete."Let anyone who has ears hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 2:7)

BUT if Anyone Does Sin: Finding Hope in Jesus Christ the Righteous

The King is coming. Are you ready?As we continue our verse-by-verse study of Revelation, we turn to the powerful vision of Jesus in Revelation 1:9-20—the One who walks among His churches, holds their pastors in His hand, and speaks with divine authority.In this episode, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison discuss:✔️ John's exile on Patmos – Why suffering for Christ is not contrary to the gospel✔️ Jesus in the midst of His churches – What this means for us today✔️ The description of Jesus – His white hair, fiery eyes, and sharp sword✔️ The power of His Word – The authority of Christ over life, death, and eternityJesus is not distant from His Church—He walks among His people, seeing, knowing, and speaking. As we prepare to study the letters to the seven churches, we must ask: Is Jesus truly the center of our church? Are we listening to His voice?

The King is coming. Are you ready?In this brand-new podcast study, Jamie Harrison and I dive into the book of Revelation—verse by verse—making sure we don't miss the main point: Jesus Christ. Revelation isn't just about end-times theories and prophecies; it's about the Alpha and Omega, the One who was, who is, and who is to come.

In this first episode of The King is Coming, we launch into a verse-by-verse study of Revelation with a focus on the One the book is truly about—Jesus Christ. Revelation 1:1 tells us this is “the revelation of Jesus Christ”—not just a book of prophecy, but a revealing of the risen, reigning, and returning King.Join me and Jamie Harrison as we discuss:✔️ The true purpose of Revelation—seeing Jesus, not just theories and timelines✔️ The chain of communication—how this revelation was given to John and to us✔️ The certainty of Christ's return—every eye will see Him✔️ How Revelation leads us to worship, not speculationRevelation is not a puzzle to decode but a book that reveals the glory of Jesus. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the One who was, who is, and who is to come—the Almighty.

Welcome back, sojourners! Today, we wrap up our Jesus Over All study with "Paul's Final Greeting & A Tale of Two Legacies" from Colossians 4:7-18. This passage is often overlooked, but it's filled with deep encouragement and challenge. As Paul names real people with real lives, we see how following Jesus shaped their legacies—some faithfully enduring, others falling away. What will our legacy be? Will we be like Mark, restored by grace, or Demas, who loved the world?Join us as we reflect on these questions and the key truths from our journey through Colossians. If you want to explore the Scripture cross-references and footnotes,

We're back! In this episode (Bible Study) in our Christ Over All study, we explore the practical and spiritual wisdom of Colossians 4:2-6. How can we live out our faith in prayer, preaching, and practice? Paul's final exhortation challenges us to approach life's battles with steadfast prayer, bold gospel proclamation, and speech that reflects Christ. Join us as we unpack: The power and priority of prayer for the mission, The necessity of clear gospel preaching, and Practical ways to live and speak in wisdom and grace. Be encouraged, dear Sojourner, that Christ is working in and through us. Whether in the busyness of life or the quiet moments of reflection, may our lives be adorned in Christ for His glory. As always, you can find the written version of today's Bible study -- complete with cross-references and footnotes -- HERE.

This special Christmas Day reading invites us to experience the wonder of Jesus' incarnation through the eyes of a child. With the awe and simplicity of childlike faith, we explore the arrival of Emmanuel, God with us, as told in the Christmas story. From Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel to the shepherds' humble worship in the stable, we're reminded of the hope, joy, and light that Jesus brings to a weary world. This reading is designed for families and individuals alike, offering a chance to weave the gospel into your Christmas tradition. With sections to read together or throughout the day, it keeps Jesus at the heart of the celebration. Join us in rediscovering the Light of the world and the good news of great joy He brings!

This Christmas study reflects on the angelic proclamation in Luke 2:10—“Good news of great joy for all people”—and connects it to the gospel message found in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:3-6 and 2 Corinthians 5:21. Together, we'll explore how Jesus, the Savior born in Bethlehem, offers hope to the weary and salvation to all who believe. With reflections on the profound exchange of Christ's righteousness for our sin and the timeless lyrics of O Holy Night, this reading invites you to pause, rejoice, and consider the life-changing good news of Jesus Christ. May this study lead you to fall on your knees in worship and experience the great joy He offers this season! --- You can find the written version of this episode, complete with cross-references and footnotes, here.

This is the reading from Luke 24 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 24 concludes with the hope and joy of Jesus' resurrection and ascension, a fitting reflection on Christmas Eve as we prepare to celebrate His birth tomorrow. This chapter invites us to marvel at the completeness of God's redemptive plan, which began in a humble manger and was fulfilled in an empty tomb. A New Beginning: The resurrection marks the triumph of life over death, just as Jesus' birth ushered in light to a dark world. As you reflect on the empty tomb, remember that Christmas celebrates the beginning of this miraculous story. Hope Fulfilled: The disciples on the road to Emmaus moved from despair to joy as Jesus opened their eyes to God's promises. This Christmas, let your heart burn with hope as you trust the One who fulfilled every prophecy. Peace and Assurance: Jesus brought peace to His disciples, proving His resurrection by showing His scars and eating with them. He offers us the same assurance—our Savior lives, and His peace is for all who believe. A Call to Worship and Witness: The disciples responded to the risen Christ with worship and proclamation. As we celebrate His birth tomorrow, let our joy overflow in worship and bold witness, sharing the good news that Christ has come, died, and risen for us. On this Christmas Eve, look forward to tomorrow with awe and wonder, knowing that the child born in Bethlehem is the risen Lord who reigns in heaven. May your celebration of His You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 23 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 23 portrays the depth of Jesus' suffering and the breadth of His grace, emphasizing His innocence, humility, and sacrifice. Innocent Yet Condemned: Pilate, Herod, and even a Roman centurion declared Jesus' innocence, yet He was condemned. This Advent, reflect on the Lamb of God who bore our sins willingly, though He was blameless. Forgiveness Through Suffering: Jesus prayed for forgiveness for His executioners even as He was crucified. Meditate on the boundless grace that offers forgiveness to all who repent. A Promise of Paradise: The thief on the cross exemplifies faith. Despite his guilt, he recognized Jesus as King. This season, take comfort in Jesus' assurance of eternal life for those who trust Him. Hope in the Darkness: The supernatural darkness and tearing of the temple veil signify the fulfillment of God's plan. Jesus' death opened the way for humanity to approach God. In your trials, hold fast to the hope secured by His sacrifice. A Call to Boldness: Joseph of Arimathea risked his reputation to honor Jesus. How might you boldly live for Christ this Advent season, demonstrating your devotion and faith? As you prepare your heart for Christmas, may Luke 23 inspire awe at the cost of our redemption and deepen your gratitude for the Savior who gave His all for us. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 22 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 22 offers a profound view of Jesus' humility, obedience, and love as He prepared to sacrifice Himself for humanity's redemption. Betrayal and Sovereignty: Even amid betrayal and suffering, God's sovereign plan unfolded. This Advent, trust that God is working His purposes in your life, even in trials. The Lord's Supper: The bread and the cup remind us of Jesus' sacrifice. Reflect on His body broken and His blood shed for the forgiveness of sins as you prepare your heart for His coming. Servant Leadership: Jesus modeled greatness through humility and service. This season, seek ways to serve others with Christlike love. Prayer in Suffering: In Gethsemane, Jesus demonstrated how to surrender to God's will. Let His example inspire you to pray with honesty and trust during difficult times. Endurance in Faith: Like Peter, we may falter, but Jesus intercedes for us. Take heart in His grace and commit to strengthening others in their faith. As you anticipate the celebration of Christ's birth and His return, may Luke 22 remind you of the depth of His love and the call to follow Him in humility and faithfulness. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 21 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 21 invites us to reflect on Jesus' teaching about the end times and His return as we prepare our hearts during Advent. Sacrificial Giving: Like the widow, give with a heart of sacrifice and trust in God's provision, knowing He values the condition of the giver's heart over the size of the gift. Endurance in Trials: The trials of this world offer opportunities to bear witness to Christ. This Advent, pray for courage and faith to persevere, trusting that God's promises are eternal. Hope in Redemption: The signs of Jesus' return remind us of the certainty of our redemption. Let this hope fill your heart with joy and confidence as you await His coming. Readiness for His Return: Jesus calls us to be watchful and prayerful, guarding against distraction. During Advent, focus on spiritual preparation, seeking His Kingdom above all else. Listening to Jesus: Like the crowds who gathered to hear Him teach, draw near to Jesus daily through His Word and prayer, allowing His truth to shape your life. As we await the celebration of Christ's birth and anticipate His return, may this passage inspire you to live faithfully and expectantly in light of His coming kingdom. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 20 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 20 challenges us to consider Jesus's authority, our response to it, and the reality of His Kingdom. As we prepare for Advent, let these truths shape our hearts: Recognize Jesus' Authority: The religious leaders resisted acknowledging Jesus's authority. This Advent, reflect on areas of your life where you need to submit more fully to Christ as Lord. Respond with Faith, Not Rejection: The parable of the wicked tenants reminds us that rejecting God's messengers leads to judgment. Consider how you can embrace Christ's message of salvation with gratitude and obedience. Give to God What Is His: Jesus taught the importance of giving to God what belongs to Him. During Advent, dedicate your time, talents, and treasures to His glory. Hope in the Resurrection: Jesus's teaching about the resurrection assures us of eternal life. Let this hope inspire joy and anticipation as you celebrate His first coming and await His return. Beware of Hypocrisy: Jesus rebuked the scribes for their pride and exploitation of others. Advent calls us to examine our hearts, repent of hypocrisy, and walk humbly with God. As you prepare for Christmas, may you honor Christ as the cornerstone of your faith, submit to His authority, and eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of His kingdom. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 19 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 19 reveals Jesus as the Savior who seeks the lost, the King who rewards faithfulness, and the Judge who brings both peace and judgment. As we prepare for Advent, let us reflect on these truths: Salvation is for All: Just as Jesus sought Zacchaeus, He seeks and saves us regardless of our past. Let this be a season to rejoice in His grace and extend it to others. Faithful Stewardship: The parable of the ten minas reminds us to use the resources God has entrusted to us for His glory. How can you invest your time, talents, and treasures in His kingdom during this Advent season? Recognizing Jesus: Jerusalem missed the peace Jesus offered – they missed Him. This Advent, let us open our hearts to recognize Christ's presence and His work in our lives. A House of Prayer: Jesus' cleansing of the temple calls us to prioritize worship and prayer. Let this season be marked by drawing closer to God in reverence and devotion. As we prepare for Christmas, may we, like Zacchaeus, respond to Christ's call with repentance, faith, and joyful obedience. Let us celebrate the King who brings salvation and peace to all who believe. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

In this special Christmas episode of our Refresh & Restore Bible study, we explore the stories of five women mentioned in Jesus's genealogy in Matthew 1:1-17: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. Despite their brokenness, these women's lives are marked by God's grace and redemption, showing us how He weaves His perfect plan through imperfect people. Their stories remind us of the hope and salvation found in Jesus, the Savior who came to seek and save the lost. Join us as we trace the scarlet thread of grace and redemption through history, pointing us to the greatest gift of all: Jesus Himself. You can find the written version of this Bible study -- complete with footnotes and cross-references -- here.

This is the reading from Luke 18 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 18 emphasizes persistence in prayer, humility in seeking God, and faithfulness in following Christ—lessons especially relevant during Advent. As we prepare to celebrate Christ's first coming and await His return, we are reminded to: 1.    Pray Without Ceasing: Like the persistent widow, we are to bring our requests to God with confidence and faith in Him. 2.    Humble Ourselves Before God: The tax collector's prayer shows us that God values a repentant heart over outward religious acts. 3.    Approach God Like a Child: Advent calls us to renew our childlike faith, trusting in God's grace and provision. 4.    Follow Christ Fully: The rich ruler's reluctance warns us against clinging to earthly possessions. Let us remember that Christ is our greatest treasure. This Advent, may we echo the blind beggar's cry, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” and live with gratitude for the abundant blessings we have received through Him. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 17 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 17 challenges us to live with faith, humility, and readiness for Christ's return. During Advent, as we await the celebration of Christ's first coming and look forward to His second, we are reminded to extend forgiveness, grow in faith, and remain steadfast in our service to Him. The healing of the ten lepers encourages us to cultivate gratitude, recognizing that every blessing is a gift from God. Like the Samaritan, let us return to Christ with thankful hearts. Finally, Jesus' teaching on the Kingdom of God calls us to examine our priorities and live expectantly for His return. This Advent season, may we keep our eyes fixed on Christ, ready for His Kingdom, and faithful in every good work He has entrusted to us. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 16 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 16 challenges us to consider how we use our earthly resources and prepare for eternity. As we anticipate Christ's coming during Advent, let us reflect on what it means to be faithful stewards of the time, possessions, and relationships God has entrusted to us. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus reminds us to care for others and focus on what has eternal value rather than fleeting wealth. This Advent season, may we strive to serve God wholeheartedly, using what He has given us to glorify Him and bless others. Let us also take comfort in the assurance that Christ's Kingdom offers lasting joy and reward for those who remain faithful. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 15 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 15 reveals the heart of God toward sinners—a heart full of compassion, mercy, and rejoicing. As we prepare for Christmas, these parables remind us of God's relentless pursuit of the lost and His joy when they return to Him. The shepherd, the woman, and the father represent God's care for every sinner, no matter how far they have strayed. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 14 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 14 reminds us of God's gracious invitation to His Kingdom and the humility and sacrifice required to follow Christ. The parable of the banquet is a picture of the generosity of God, who welcomes the outcast and undeserving to His table. As we prepare for Christmas, may we reflect on the cost of discipleship and respond to God's call with humble hearts, knowing that Christ humbled Himself to bring us salvation. Let us invite others to share in the joy of the Kingdom and commit ourselves fully to the One who gave everything for us! You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 13 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 13 reminds us of the urgency of repentance and the boundless grace of God, who gives opportunities to bear fruit and enter His kingdom. Jesus' healing of the crippled woman and His lament over Jerusalem reveal His compassion and desire for restoration. During Advent, may we examine our hearts, turn from sin, and embrace the hope of the Kingdom, remembering that Christ's coming brings both salvation and a call to faithful discipleship. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 12 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 12 reminds us to live with eternity in mind, trusting God's care and seeking His Kingdom above all else. Jesus challenges us to examine where our treasure lies and to remain faithful, prepared for His return. This Advent, as we reflect on Christ's first coming, may we embrace His call to fearless faith and faithful stewardship, fixing our hearts on eternal treasures and the hope of His promised return. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 11 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 11 calls us to persistent, faith-filled prayer and wholehearted obedience to God's Word. Jesus' authority over evil and His challenge to spiritual vigilance remind us to guard our hearts and align ourselves with His kingdom. His rebuke of hollow religion directs us to true holiness—a life transformed by God's grace. This Advent, let us seek God with sincerity, trust His provision, and reflect His light in the world. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 10 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 10 reminds us of the priorities in following Jesus. The seventy's mission shows the urgency of sharing the gospel and the joy of knowing our salvation is secure. The parable of the Good Samaritan challenges us to love selflessly and act mercifully, reflecting God's grace to those in need. Mary's example teaches us the value of sitting at Jesus's feet and living in relationship with Him. During Advent, let us embrace the call to share Christ's love, demonstrate His compassion, and focus on His presence as we prepare to celebrate His coming. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 9 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 9 challenges us to examine the cost of following Jesus. Discipleship requires humility, dependence on God, and a willingness to sacrifice. The Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus is God, while the feeding of the five thousand shows His power to provide for every need. As we prepare our hearts during Advent, may we reflect on what it means to take up our cross daily and follow the One who is both Savior and King. Let us trust in His sufficiency and walk in faith and obedience. Luke 9:51 is an important verse in Luke's narrative because it shows that Jesus never wavered in His purpose for being on earth. While it seems like Jerusalem and His crucifixion are a long way off at this point in Luke, we see here that Jesus “set His face” to go there. From this point to Luke 19, the cross was set in Jesus's gaze and was not only where He was headed but where He purposefully headed toward. As we journey there with Him over these next weeks, let us set our face toward Him. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 8 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 8 highlights the transformative power of God's Word and the necessity of faith. Jesus shows His authority over nature, demons, sickness, and death, calling us to trust Him in all circumstances. As Advent draws near, let us cultivate hearts like good soil—ready to receive God's Word, bear fruit, and live by faith. May this season remind us that Jesus brings hope, healing, and new life to all who believe. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 7 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. In Luke 7, Jesus reveals His compassion, power, and authority. He heals, raises the dead, and forgives sins, affirming His identity as the Messiah. His reassurance to John the Baptist reminds us to trust God's plan even in uncertain times. The sinful woman's story shows that faith in Jesus transforms hearts and leads to love and worship. This Advent, may we open our hearts to His grace, trusting Him as our Savior and Redeemer. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 6 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. As we meditate on Luke 6 during Advent, we see Jesus calling us to a discipleship marked by love, humility, and obedience to God's will. He challenges us to embrace the values of God's Kingdom rather than the world's. The Pharisees' legalism contrasts sharply with Jesus' message of grace and compassion. This Advent season, may we embrace the call to follow Jesus, not as a moral teacher, but as the Lord who fulfills the law with love. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 5 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠. In Luke 5, we see Jesus demonstrating His divine authority through miraculous acts, healing the sick, and calling sinners to repentance. As we prepare for Advent, we are reminded that Jesus came not only to heal our bodies but to forgive our sins and transform our lives. His call to follow Him invites us to leave behind our old ways – our old selves, just as the disciples and Levi did, and embrace the new life He offers. Let us prepare our hearts to receive the Savior who brings healing, forgiveness, and a new way of life. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 4 in our ⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠. As we reflect on Luke 4 during Advent, we see Jesus beginning His public ministry with victory over temptation, the proclamation of the gospel, and the healing of the broken. The temptation in the wilderness reminds us that Jesus, fully God yet fully human, understands our struggles and yet remains sinless. His rejection in Nazareth reveals how His message often challenges our expectations and calls us to a deeper understanding of God's grace, extending even to those we might consider outsiders. Finally, His healing ministry reminds us that the Kingdom of God is not only about spiritual transformation, but that God genuinely cares for us in all aspects of our lives. Let us prepare our hearts to receive Jesus, not just as a Savior, but as the King who reigns with authority, grace, and compassion. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 3 in our ⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠. In Luke 3, we see John's message of repentance reminds us to prepare our hearts for Jesus and our need for Him as Savior. Jesus's baptism reveals His humility and obedience, while the genealogy affirms that Jesus is the Savior of the world. During Advent, let us reflect on how Jesus fulfills every promise and calls us to live as His faithful followers. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

This is the reading from Luke 2 in our ⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠. Luke 2 invites us to glorify God for His mercy in sending Jesus. Whether through the angelic announcement, the worship of Simeon and Anna, or the wonder of the shepherds, Christ's birth is a moment of praise, joy, and transformation. Let us respond by teaching His truth, treasuring His promises, and telling of His glory this Advent season. You can find ⁠the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here⁠.

This is the reading from Luke 1 in our Good News of Great Joy reading guide. Luke 1 sets the stage for the arrival of Jesus, showing God's faithfulness to His promises. The angelic announcements and prophetic songs highlight God's plan to bring salvation to His people through Christ. During Advent, we can join Mary and Zechariah in raising God for His mercy and preparing our hearts to receive the light of Christ. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

Join us as we journey through the gospel of Luke together this Advent season. We want to give you the opportunity to look at the whole Story of Jesus – not just the divine swaddled baby in the manger, but the young boy who taught the teachers in the temple, the man who served rather than being served, and the Savior who died and rose again “in accordance with the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Readings will be uploaded here daily, but if you would like to see the written version, complete with helpful footnotes and other resources, visit the website!

Today's Bible Study comes from Colossians 3:22-4:1 and shows us what it looks like for our work -- our jobs, whether as an employee or a boss -- can look like when it is adorned with Christ! You can check out the footnotes, cross-references, and appendices referenced in the audio HERE in the written version.

This week's Refresh & Restore Bible Study is a sermon preached by David Miller, country preacher at large. Join us as we walk through Hebrews 1:1-4 and worship our excellent Lord and Savior, King Jesus! You can find the written version of today's Bible study here, complete with links, cross-references, and footnotes.

Today's Bible study covers the book of Philemon which was written as a companion letter to Colossians, specifically to a member of the Colossian church named Philemon. If the letter to the church at Colossae teaches us that Jesus is Over All, the letter to Philemon teaches us that Jesus is over us. You can find the written version of this Bible study here along with helpful cross-references and footnotes. There are three additional documents that are referenced in this study: Appendix I -- Bible Passages Discussing the Treatment of Slaves or Servants Appendix II -- Bible Passages Discussing the Release of Slaves Appendix III -- Bible Passages Condemning Practices Related to Chattel Slavery and Modern-Day Slavery/Human Trafficking

Today's Bible Study comes from Colossians 3:20-21 and shows us what it looks like for our families -- parents and children -- are like when adorned with Christ! There are a LOT of verses and helpful notes in this one, so be sure to check out the written version here. Also, here are the resources referenced in the podcast for further study: Shepherding a Child's Heart (Tedd Tripp, Shepherd Press); Family Driven Faith: Doing What It Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk With God (Voddie Baucham, Crossway); Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family (Paul David Tripp, Crossway). These are not parenting books per se, but 10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) About Christianity (Rebecca McLaughlin, Crossway) was very helpful in talking with my oldest about sin and the world as she approached her teens and Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers (Dane Ortlund, Crossway) can be helpful if you need to see how Jesus treats His followers who turn to Him as an example for to point your family to the Savior.

Today's Bible study comes from Colossians 3:17-19 and looks at what it looks like for a marriage to be impact by Christ. There is an abundance of cross-references, notes, and footnotes, so you may want to check out the written version here.