Podcasts about ABBA

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222. Monday-Friday, 3 pm-6 pm MT. https://RushToReason.com HOUR 1 Dive straight into Colorado's political battleground as John Rush and Andy Peth pull back the curtain on the gubernatorial race, exposing the real strategies that decide elections. Forget the social media noise—John and Andy reveal how coalition-building, fundraising, and understanding voters can make or break a campaign. Their sharp exchange dismantles political echo chambers and gives you the tools to see through the hype. But politics isn't the only thrill: Andy unleashes his take on Spider-Man: Brand New Day, raving about jaw-dropping action scenes, Tom Holland's electrifying performance, and a villain who steals the show. Find out why, despite a few pacing stumbles, this Marvel adventure nearly landed on Andy's best-of-the-year list. This hour packs a punch with fiery debate, real-world campaign tactics, and Andy's must-hear 5-Star Movie Review. Catch Andy's full review breakdown ➡️https://www.rushtoreason.com/movie-reviews-2/ Timestamps 14:41 – Spider-Man: Brand New Day HOUR 2 Get ready for a joyride through music history as John Rush and Andy Peth craft the ultimate playlist of catchy, timeless songs. From classic rock anthems and country favorites to movie soundtracks, one-hit wonders, and guilty pleasures, the show bursts with energy as the audience chimes in to add their own can't-miss tracks. The hour is a whirlwind of memories—legendary artists, unforgettable movie scenes, and hilarious stories about the songs everyone knows by heart. Whether it's Weird Al, Disney classics, ABBA, or rock icons like the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac, John and Andy keep things lively and unpredictable. Expect a nostalgia-fueled celebration that will have you singing along and smiling for hours after the show.

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222. Monday-Friday, 3 pm-6 pm MT. https://RushToReason.com HOUR 1 Dive straight into Colorado's political battleground as John Rush and Andy Peth pull back the curtain on the gubernatorial race, exposing the real strategies that decide elections. Forget the social media noise—John and Andy reveal how coalition-building, fundraising, and understanding voters can make or break a campaign. Their sharp exchange dismantles political echo chambers and gives you the tools to see through the hype. But politics isn't the only thrill: Andy unleashes his take on Spider-Man: Brand New Day, raving about jaw-dropping action scenes, Tom Holland's electrifying performance, and a villain who steals the show. Find out why, despite a few pacing stumbles, this Marvel adventure nearly landed on Andy's best-of-the-year list. This hour packs a punch with fiery debate, real-world campaign tactics, and Andy's must-hear 5-Star Movie Review. Catch Andy's full review breakdown ➡️https://www.rushtoreason.com/movie-reviews-2/ Timestamps 14:41 – Spider-Man: Brand New Day HOUR 2 Get ready for a joyride through music history as John Rush and Andy Peth craft the ultimate playlist of catchy, timeless songs. From classic rock anthems and country favorites to movie soundtracks, one-hit wonders, and guilty pleasures, the show bursts with energy as the audience chimes in to add their own can't-miss tracks. The hour is a whirlwind of memories—legendary artists, unforgettable movie scenes, and hilarious stories about the songs everyone knows by heart. Whether it's Weird Al, Disney classics, ABBA, or rock icons like the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac, John and Andy keep things lively and unpredictable. Expect a nostalgia-fueled celebration that will have you singing along and smiling for hours after the show.

It's time to get all Swedish up in here as we bring back another classic GAMES REVIEW by heading back to the year a certain ship sank, a certain cookie was invented and a certain US President was no longer in control as we look at the Stockholm 1912 Olympics! Why were these Games so groundbreaking for the modern Olympics? Are we excited to talk about the icon that is Jim Thorpe? What about super long wrestling matches that are probably still going? How about groundbreaking female swimmers from Australia? Or actual swimmers from Canada who apparently were well ahead of their time? Or most importantly, the debut of ART COMPETITIONS! There's a lot to get to and unpack in true OTP style, so get your ABBA playlist ready, assemble your IKEA furniture and bring along any other Swedish stereotypes you want as we deliver one hell of an episode!

Vi poddar mellan Borås och Jönköping. Sofia fäller en tår och klär ut sig till Frida i ABBA. Vi skickar hat på homofober. Kommer vi få se Sofia på BDSM klubb. Har vi väckt en björn som sover? Bianca brottas med en vagel. Vi överväger att skjuta upp vår aska i fyrverkerier. Pernilla har haft en syskon reunion och har köpt ett fiskespö. Och glöm inte dansa alla queens! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us Fan MailIf you've ever heard “just stop sinning” and felt either crushed or numb, we go after what's missing: the Bible's full picture of Christian sanctification. We talk about mortification and vivification, the twin realities of the old self being put to death and the new self being brought to life. That change is not a motivational speech or a spiritual productivity plan. It is the Holy Spirit actively working in people who are already united to Christ.We ground the conversation in Ephesians 4:22–24 and Romans 8, especially the line that cuts through modern assumptions: “as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” We wrestle with the difference between being set apart positionally at the cross and being set apart progressively in daily life, and why it's a mistake to treat doctrines like a staircase you climb. Along the way we lay out what justification, regeneration, mortification, and glorification each do to sin, and why obedience is never the cause of spiritual life but the evidence of it.Then we zoom out to Christ's victory right now: what it means that Jesus binds the strong man, why Satan's “binding” doesn't mean sin disappears, and how that truth protects the glory of the cross. We close with adoption, assurance, and the Spirit-given freedom to cry, “Abba, Father,” with real confidence and peace.If this helped you think more clearly about sanctification, the Holy Spirit, Romans 8, and spiritual growth, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the conversation.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

I'd like to briefly recap the story I told about the young boy who was attacked by an alligator. He had jumped into the swimming hole and as he swam out, an alligator swam toward him. His father was nearby, and he ran to the lake to rescue his son. As he reached from the dock for his son's hands, the alligator grabbed his legs, and a tug of war ensued. But this father was not letting go, and he dug his fingers into the boy's arms to hold him. A farmer driving by heard the screams, ran to the lake and shot the alligator. But of course, the boy's legs were greatly scarred, and he spent days in the hospital recovering. When asked to show the scars on his legs, the boy did so, but then with obvious pride, he said, “But look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms, too. They are there because my Dad wouldn’t let go.” In Romans 8 Paul tells us those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God, and because of that, we can cry, “Abba, Father.” We are permitted to call the God of creation by an intimate term, a family name, if you please—Abba, Father, Papa. He is our heavenly father, and he will never let us go. I think of a friend of mine who never knew her father; he abandoned her before she was born. Others have fathers who simply neglected them, and still others have fathers who abused them. If that is true for you, your concept of a father is likely warped. But let me assure you God is your heavenly Father, and he is perfect. Don't transfer your negative experience with your earthly father to God, because you will then miss the joy of fellowshipping with him as Father, Abba, Papa. I had a wonderful earthly father who never neglected me or mistreated me, but even he could not promise to never leave me. My heavenly Father can say, I will never leave you or forsake you, and I have full assurance he will always be with me. He will not let me go, and the same is true for you, if you are his child. Let me close with these wonderful verses from Romans 8: For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).

✨Experience ABBA's legacy through a contemporary nudisco lens—this mechamix blends iconic melodies with sleek, dancefloor-ready production for die-hard fans and fresh ears alike. BPM = 124 – 132 TRACKS:DANCING QUEEN (collini nudisco remix)THE DAY BEFORE YOU CAME (collini nudisco club house remix)SOS (collini nudisco club house remix)GIMME! GIMME! GIMME! (collini club house party starter remix)LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ON ME (collini nudisco club house remix)HAPPY NEW YEAR (collini 2k21 club house edit)KNOWING ME KNOWING YOU (collini vs indygop nudisco mix)THE NAME OF THE GAME (collini nudisco club house remix)HONEY HONEY (collini nudisco club house remix)SUPER TROUPER (collini dance edit)VOULEZ VOUS (collini club house party starter remix)THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL (collini vs indygo club house edit)MAMA MIA (collini vs indygo club house party starter edit) For further mechamix adventures check out:THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE:https://mechanism.podomatic.com THE OFFICIAL PATREON PAGE:https://patreon.com/THEOFFICIALMECHANISMPODCAST BUY ME A COFFEE:https://buymeacoffee.com/mechamix OFFICIAL MERCH STORE:https://mechamixstore.dashery.com MORE TO EXPLORE:https://linktr.ee/mechanismpodcast

Today we read two of the most meaningful chapters in the Bible for those who truly sense they are “called to be saints.”  [Rom. 1 v.7] They are a sequel to yesterday's chapters – Romans 5 & 6 – that challenge believers that they, “having been set free from sin” must now be “slaves to righteousness.” [6 v.18]  The sacrifice of Jesus brought an end to the law of Moses, a law which spelt out all the ways that humans become classified as sinners in God's eyes. In its place we have, says Paul, “received the spirit of adoption, as sons (and daughters) by which we cry, ‘Abba, Father.' [8 v.15] Let us sense as fully as we can that we became the adopted children of God when put on the name of his Son in baptism; let us think positively of the wonder and privilege of this!It was a spirit which transformed the world of the first century – and there was a renewal of this spirit to a considerable degree in the wider world when the Bible was first printed and available for all to read.  Chapters 7 & 8 today go together; we should ignore the chapter break.   It is essential we develop a spiritual mind, in contrast to a fleshly mind – there is nothing in-between.   Paul says, “those who live according to the spirit set their minds on the things of the spirit … the mind of the spirit is life and peace.” [v.5,6]  This “set” of our minds, develops to greater and greater degrees the more we meditatively read God's word and this letter of Paul is an outstanding and inspirational example.  Paul says, “If God be for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? … Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  Shall tribulation or distress … No, in all these things we are more than conquerors, through him who loved us.  For I am sure that neither death nor life … nor things to come … nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [v.31,35,37-39]   God will certainly be “for us” – as long as we are for him and show we are trying our best to be “slaves to righteousness.”     When we come to ch, 15,  verse.13 will ‘jump out' at us  “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” This is not the power to do miracles, it is having a genuine spiritual mind in contrast to a fleshly mind: absorb the point Paul makes in what we read in v.5  of chapter 8   ‘For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.”  And, O,  the wonder then of God being “for us.”

Baz is joined in studio by Brian Keville from the tribute act ‘Qween' and Linda McGovern from the group ‘Abbaesque'.

This week in our series on the Names of God, we are looking at "Abba, Father." We see God's heart has always been to be a loving father to his children in a relationship marked by love and compassion. We will look at how God, as a good Father: Sees us completely, soothes us in our distress, provides a place of safety, and gives us lasting security.

The beautiful Agnetha Agnetha Faltskog (aka. Tango "Just Sayin'") brings the 1979 smash hit ABBA Gold to Aaron's signature show, Aaron's Audio Audibles. We don't allow anyone but Tango to feature greatest hits albums, but at least she brings everyone's favorite guilty pleasure to the format. Stick around to the end to find out which of these tracks wins the "Banger" of the episode! #abba #abbagold #dancingqueen #mamamia #agnethafaltskog #bjornandbenny #thewinnertakesitall #fernado #abbaarenaYUH Theme by David T and Mojo 3https://www.amazon.com/Insanity-Sobri...Anti Social Network on Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1NrDN795E7qwmKL5wS6z7wI'm Just Sayin' on Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@ImJustSayin-ru2ABBA Gold on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/album/2cKZfaz7GiGtZEeQNj1RyR?si=hPGFbSmHTKeyAfehPlMrqAYeah Uh Huh Social Stuff:Yeah Uh Huh on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@yeahuhhuhpodYeah Uh Huh on Facebookhttps://facebook.com/YeahUhHuhPodYeah Uh Huh on Twitterhttps://twitter.com/YeahUhHuhPodYeah Uh Huh on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7pS9l716ljEQLeMMxwihoS?si=27bd15fb26ed46aaYeah Uh Huh on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yeah-uh-huh/id1565097611Yeah Uh Huh Website:https://yeah-uh-huh.wixsite.com/yeahuhhuhpodhttps://youtu.be/ipWX5E_BKV8?si=nF1NEH3hTE6KS3MG

Who is Arba?Arba Cooper is a distinguished marketeer with a longstanding expertise in technology, dating back to the 80s. Specializing as a digital marketing trainer, Arba dedicates her efforts toward solopreneurs, particularly baby boomers, who are facing challenges with technological advancements. Her passion is fueled by personal experience and a strong desire to help others navigate the complexities of digital marketing, particularly video marketing. Arba is celebrated for her patience and ability to distill complex technological concepts into approachable, relatable lessons.Key TakeawaysIn this episode of “Five Questions Over Coffee,” hosted by Stuart Webb, we dive into a lively and informative discussion with Arba Cooper, an expert in digital marketing and technology. Arbor shares her longstanding experience in technology, having witnessed its evolution since the 80s, and her passion for helping solopreneurs, particularly those within the baby boomer demographic, accustom themselves to the digital age. This episode unveils Arba's insights on the potency of video as an essential marketing tool, especially in the age of AI.Arba discusses her role in assisting solopreneurs who struggle with integrating new technologies into their business strategies. She describes how she supports clients by reducing their apprehension towards technology and introducing them to video marketing, a crucial aspect in today's digital commerce landscape. With attention spans diminishing, she notes that video content can significantly elevate engagement and lead generation. This episode is packed with Arba's personal anecdotes, expert advice, and effective methodologies in leveraging modern marketing tools.Key Takeaways:* Solopreneurs, especially baby boomers, often face challenges with technology that Arba Cooper helps them overcome with patience and expertise.* In the realm of digital marketing, video content particularly holds increasing value in engaging audiences and generating leads.* Arbor emphasizes that effectively using AI tools can aid those uncomfortable with appearing on camera to still create compelling video content.* Arba's commitment is deeply personal, rooted in her own experiences of entrepreneurial struggles when she faced marketing challenges without adequate guidance.* Engaging with a community of learners can enhance one's skills in video marketing, benefiting from both novice insights and professional expertise.Notable Quotes:* “The person I am exactly trying to talk to is the solopreneur who is struggling particularly with their marketing.”* “Attention span has become shorter... but you can use technology, what's called faceless videos, or insert yourself in different parts of your video.”* “If a person's afraid to be on camera, my job is not to make them comfortable, it's to show them there are other ways.”* “We would miss out on a lot of the services and products of the solopreneurs.”* “If they have time, I'll give my talent.”Resources:* Five Questions Over Coffee - Free Stuff Vault: fivequestionsovercoffee.com/freestuffTune into this past episode to hear insightful discussions and practical advice on how

IntroductionLast week we considered God's promise to Abram that the Lord is our shield. Lord's Day 21 expands that promise from individuals to the community. It expands to his holy assembly. While our culture prizes independence, Scripture reminds us that Christianity is never simply "my Bible and me." Christ gathers a people for himself, and it is within his church that he nurtures, strengthens, and preserves his saints. The One Triune God Gathers his People When we confess belief in the "holy catholic church," we are confessing faith in the universal church, not the Roman Catholic Church. The Apostles' Creed uses this language to communicate that from the beginning, God has always intended to gather a people who would fellowship with him. In fact, throughout covenant history God has always worked in the context of a community. Man was not created to be alone. (Genesis 2:18). Man was created to spread out across the earth, to produce, and to multiply in God's perfect creation. Unfortunately, we live in a fallen world. The Lord promised to divide the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent (Genesis 3:15). The champion seed, Christ, will rise from the seed of the woman and defeat the serpent. One thing we cannot miss is that the Lord will divide the human race. Now, in a fallen world, we see that Christ gathers his people through his word and Spirit. The ordinary means God uses to call sinners is the preaching of the gospel. That is why the church itself is evangelistic. We invite people into the place where Christ speaks through his Word. We are not invited or called to live on our own apart from Christ's community. Conversion ultimately belongs to God's sovereign work. Some are converted dramatically, others gradually, and covenant children often cannot remember a day they did not believe. Whatever the manner, it is Christ who gathers his elect throughout history into one covenant family. No, the church is not perfect, and in this life there will be hypocrites mixed into the church. (I Corinthians 5; Belgic Confession Article 29)Christ Unites his People in himselfThe church is not some club or just some organization where we pay our dues. No, the church is Christ's body. Romans 8 reminds us repeatedly that we are heirs together with Christ. Salvation is not merely individual but corporate. Every believer shares equally in Christ's inheritance through adoption as we take hold of Christ by faith.Because we belong to one body, every member has gifts to use for the good of the whole. Rather than asking, "What can this church do for me?" we ought to ask, "How can I serve Christ by serving his people?" (Romans 12). Paul reminds us that we have not received a spirit of slavery but of adoption. We are not terrified of God like he is some unstable king. No, we approach God as Abba, Father, sharing the same family privilege Christ has secured for us. Our identity is no longer found in proving ourselves worthy but in belonging to God's family through grace alone by faith alone. Christ Guards his ChurchRomans 8 offers one of Scripture's greatest assurances. Yes, we will suffer. Paul does not deny suffering. Christians grieve. Christ himself wept at Lazarus' tomb and over Jerusalem. We taste Christ's blessing by faith and the Spirit, but we have not arrived at the full glory. Romans 8:28 is not a command to suppress grief but a promise that God will redeem even our darkest seasons and most trying times for our eternal good. We don't just carelessly say this to people who are grieving, as this is not going to be necessarily helpful. However, as we reflect back on life, we can see that God has shaped us and moulded us through those trying times. We say that he did not cause it, but he allowed it for reasons he has not revealed to us. We need to remember that in the fall we wanted chaos, disorder, and abuse. We can get discouraged in this life. So, Paul shows that God's intention is to finish the work that he started. God has chosen us, and God will bring us to full glorification. In fact, as Paul lists 10 and 7 things that can come against us, ultimately we ponder these triumphant questions: Who can bring a charge against God's elect?Who can condemn?Who can separate us from the love of Christ?His answer is emphatic: No one. Christ's work is so sure that there is no power, there is no army, there is no authority that will destroy us. In fact, when Paul cites Psalm 44:22, we read in the Psalm that David is waiting for an answer. Paul gives the answer: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)The Good Shepherd loses none of those whom the Father has given him.ConclusionThe communion of saints is not merely a comforting doctrine; it is the reality that our life is held together in Christ. Because Christ has gathered us, united us, and promised never to forsake us, we are free to encourage one another through every season of life. The emphasis is encouragement. Sometimes we sit quietly with a friend. This is probably the most effective time Job's counselors interacted with him. The reality is that sometimes we have nothing to say, and we just sit with someone so they are not alone. Sometimes we rehearse the promises of Scripture. Discerning what is pleasing to the Lord is not always easy. Ultimately, we want to avoid shallow answers to suffering; we remind one another that our faithful Savior is still working, still defending, and still leading his people home. He may seem silent, but he is actively working in our lives to shepherd us to glory. As we serve Christ by serving his church, we press on together with this confidence: Nothing can separate God's people from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Let that be our hope.

INTRO (00:24): Kathleen opens the show drinking a Paddle Battle West Coast Pilsner from Nickel Brook Brewing Company in Burlington, ON. She reviews her weekend in Niagara Falls, walleye fishing with her friend Terri Clark and riding the Hornblower boat into the Falls prior to her show at Fallsview Casino.    TOUR NEWS: See Kathleen live on her “Flying Cats & Marching Armadillos Tour.”   TASTING MENU (1:16): Kathleen samples Lay's World Cup Limited Edition Bacon Poutine chips, Kozlik's Old Smokey Canadian Mustard, and Hostess Original Hickory Sticks.   QUEEN NEWS (22:05): Kathleen shares that Stevie Nicks posed for a picture with Tom Brady last week at Fanatics Fest.    HOLLYWOOD HAPPENINGS (30:06): HollyBobby provides the latest news in Hollywood.   UPDATES (23:18): Kathleen reports that Savannah Guthrie has released another plea video to Nancy Guthrie's kidnappers, Cracker Barrel's CEO has finally resigned, Japan's Punch the Monkey celebrated his first birthday, and incoming British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has a tough decision to make that could impact the Chief Mouser.   WHAT ARE WE WATCHING (33:34): Kathleen recommends watching “Take A Chance” the ABBA documentary on Prime Video, “Michael” on Prime Video, and “JANET JACKSON” on Prime Video.    HOLY SHIT THEY FOUND IT (50:26): Kathleen reports on the discovery of an endangered Himalayan musk deer in West Bengal.    NEWS (52:34): Kathleen reports that ASU is now offering a content creation major, Lululemon has been dethroned by Alo as the top selling athletic brand, Elton John has signed a hologram performance deal, a supermarket in Finland has introduced a matchmaking program for shoppers, Anthony Hopkins signs a classical record deal, French lawmakers adopt social media ban for kids under 15, and the last remaining iron lung patient dies at age 78.   SPORTS NEWS (1:08:26): Kathleen reports that LeBron James has signed with the Philadelphia 76'ers, and the 2026 NFL season has officially kicked off with all training camps underway.    SPANISH PHRASE OF THE WEEK (1:15:14): The Spanish phrase to learn this week is “vienes de una familia numerosa?” or “are you from a big family” in English.    PATRON SAINT OF THE WEEK (1:21:00): Kathleen reads about St. Philomene, the patron saint of dancers and newlyweds.    FEEL GOOD STORY (1:12:25): Kathleen shares that the reclusive Wondiwoi tree kangaroo has been rediscovered in West Papua.   

This time I'm talking with Bad Heritage! We talk about -Using poetry to channel your emotions and write songs -Rehearsing with real intent -How big opportunities can come from having the right contacts Bad Heritage on Instagram Come and follow us on Instagram! We are at: Music Survival Guide Podcast Phil's Page Phil can be found at: www.vortissoundstudios.com Phil can be emailed at: Phil@philthemixengineer.com

Angst kan een krachtige invloed op ons leven hebben, maar in werkelijkheid gebruikt de vijand dit als het omgekeerde van geloof. Hij zegt tegen ons: "Geloof wat ik je vertel. Dit gaat niet werken. Je gebeden zijn niet goed genoeg. Je staat niet rechtvaardig voor God. Je bent een mislukking." Angst vertelt je altijd wat je niet bent, wat je niet hebt, wat je niet kunt en wat je nooit zult zijn. Maar Romeinen 8:15 zegt dat je een kind van God bent die Hem kan aanroepen met "Abba, Vader". Het woord Abba werd door kleine kinderen gebruikt om tot hun vader te spreken. Het is gelijk aan wat wij "Pappa" noemen. Het is minder formeel dan Vader en duidt op een aangename nauwe verbondenheid tussen een kind met zijn of haar vader. Jezus zei dat we God "Abba" mogen noemen, omdat Hij ons had bevrijd van alle angsten. Hij zal altijd voor Zijn geliefde kinderen zorgen, en we mogen tot Hem naderen zonder angst voor afwijzing. Wanneer we naar Hem toe rennen met welk probleem of pijn dan ook, wacht Hij met open armen om ons te troosten en te bemoedigen. Kort gebed: Abba Vader, dank U dat U mij tot Uw kind hebt gemaakt. Ik weet dat U voor mij zal zorgen, en dus hoef ik niet in gebondenheid van angst te leven. Ik hou van U! Amen — Voor dagelijkse ondersteuning die je herinnert dat God om je geeft, meld je hier aan: ✅ https://www.joyce-meyer.nl/overdenking - voor de dagelijkse overdenking per mail mét audio

July 28, 2026Today's Reading: Acts 20:27-38 or Romans 8:12-17Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 13:1-18; Acts 23:12-35“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!'” (Romans 8:15)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Were your ancestors slaves? Believe it or not, everyone should say yes. It doesn't matter who your parents are, or your family lineage, or where your ancestors came from. All people, since the Fall into sin, were born as slaves of sin. Just as a child born to slaves on a plantation was also a slave, so a child born to sinners is also a slave to sin. And that means everyone except Jesus. You included.A slave does the will of his master. In the case of sin, the slave continues to sin. Willfully, intentionally, or simply because he can't help himself, the slave to sin feeds his sinful nature and sets his mind on the things of the flesh. That includes pornography, revenge, sinful pride instead of humble helping of others, rebellion against proper authorities, and self-righteousness. One cannot set his mind on doing such things and live before God. He is a slave, chained to his sin, and gladly serving it.Jesus, however, came to set slaves of sin free. To do this, He first had to break the chains of sins. He had to live as the substitute in the place of sinners, and yet give up this perfect life to suffer the punishment for all sin. Christ Jesus has taken your place in death, which your sins deserved, and now is risen from the dead and proclaims you right with God. This is not because of how deserving you are, but simply out of God's great mercy and love to redeem sinners, a mercy rooted in Jesus.To set slaves free from sins, Jesus also sent the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit brings Christ's righteousness to us and creates faith in the heart that receives this righteousness. From faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit also leads and compels believers to what the Lutheran Confessions call “the new obedience.” Yes, we are to do good works. The phrase “good works” is not inherently bad. We just realize that good works are the fruits of faith, not the cause of faith. The Holy Spirit given to us allows us to set our minds on the things of the Spirit, which includes all of faith and a godly life. Therefore, we are adopted by God as His dear children, whom we cry out to in our prayers. What slave to sin can do this? But you are not a slave to sin. Therefore, set your mind on the things of the Spirit.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Though He giveth or He taketh, God His children ne'er forsaketh; His the loving purpose solely To preserve them pure and holy. (LSB 725:4)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.

“The Father is the good life.” WHERE WE FIND OURSELVES Everyone wants the good life, and we chase it down two paths: rule keeping and rule breaking. They look like opposites, but both are the same bite of the same fruit, the good life without God. Both enslave. WHAT CHRIST HAS DONE When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth the true Son, born under the law, to become a slave like us and redeem us. He paid for our rule keeping and our rule breaking on the cross, felt like an orphan so we never have to, and sent the Spirit of the Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” No longer slaves, but sons and heirs. VISION FOR THE CHRISTIAN LIFE For the church to become a house of returned sons and daughters: people who go to God in prayer to enjoy the Father rather than leverage Him, and whose love, joy, and peace spill out until rule keepers and rule breakers alike find the road home to the Father through our lives as free sons. Links: Website: https://thegrovechurch.co Instagram: https://instagram.com/thegrovechurchofficial Facebook: https://facebook.com/thegrovechurchofficial Sermon Audio: https://soundcloud.com/thegrovechurchofficial Podcast: https://tr.ee/c0BcdkUV3C Support Our Ministry: https://grovechurch.churchcenter.com/giving If this video was helpful to you, please like, comment, and subscribe — and share it with someone who needs hope today.

Two cries stand side by side in this Sunday's readings: "Lord, Lord" and "Abba, Father." The first belongs to an applicant outside the office door with his accomplishments in a folder; the second to a child who never wondered whether he was allowed in the house. Jesus doesn't dispute the applicants' resume. He disputes that it ever mattered. What every false prophet wants is to turn sons back into applicants.

What if prayer, fasting, confession, and Holy Communion are not assignments from a strict schoolmaster but the ordinary practices of life in our Father's house? Reflecting on Galatians 3:23–4:5, this homily invites us to see the Christian life as a journey from guardianship to sonship, from preparation to fulfillment, and from obedience to loving communion with God. --- Galatians 3:23-4:5 In today's Epistle, Saint Paul says something that has puzzled Christians for centuries. He tells us that "before faith came, we were kept under guard by the Law." Then he says that "the Law was our tutor"—our guardian—"until Christ came." That naturally raises a question. If Christ had to come, then why did God give the Law in the first place? Was the Law a mistake? Did Christ come to replace what God had already done? Not at all. Saint John Chrysostom says Paul isn't criticizing the Law. He's defending it. The Law accomplished exactly what God intended it to accomplish. The problem wasn't the Law. The problem was thinking that the Law was the destination instead of the journey. Perhaps an example will help. Imagine someone saying, "Elementary school is useless because you can't become a doctor unless you go to medical school." Well, of course you can't. But that doesn't make elementary school a failure. It was never meant to produce physicians. It was meant to teach you to read, to write, to count, to think, so that one day you could become something greater. You don't despise elementary school because you've graduated from it. You honor it because it accomplished exactly what it was designed to do: it prepared you for something greater. That is exactly what Saint Paul is saying. The Law was God's elementary school—or, as Paul says, the guardian who escorted His children until they were ready for Christ. It taught His people who He is. It taught them holiness. It taught them justice. It taught them mercy. It taught them that sin separates us from God. It taught them that sacrifice is necessary. It taught them to long for redemption. Every commandment, every sacrifice, every feast, every priest, every prophet was preparing Israel for Christ. The Law was never the destination. It was preparing God's people for the One who is. That's why Paul calls it a guardian. The Greek word is paidagōgos. It doesn't mean a classroom teacher. It refers to the trusted servant who escorted a child to school, watched over him, corrected him, and protected him until he became an adult. The guardian had an important job. But no loving parent intended for the child to remain under the protection of the guardian forever. The goal was maturity. That is exactly what God was doing with His people. The Law guarded Israel. It preserved them. It protected them from idolatry. It formed them into a people through whom the Messiah would come. And when Christ came, the time of preparation gave way to the time of fulfillment. That is why Paul goes on to say something astonishing. He does not merely say that Christ forgives us. He says that "God sent forth His Son... so that we might receive adoption as sons." Notice how much greater that is. God's purpose was never merely to produce well-behaved servants. His purpose is to raise sons and daughters. He doesn't simply pardon sinners. He adopts us as His children and welcomes us into His household. That is why the Christian life is so much more than rule-keeping. Rules can regulate behavior, but they cannot create love. They can restrain evil, but they cannot heal the heart. Only Christ can do that. Through the Holy Spirit, He writes God's Law upon the heart. Only the life of Christ dwelling within us can make us into the kind of people who naturally love what is good. This is why Orthodoxy speaks so often about salvation – theosis – as a process and a way of life. God's purpose is not simply to forgive sinners. His purpose is to unite us to Christ so completely that we begin to share His life. As Saint Athanasius famously said, "God became man so that man might become god"—not by nature, but by grace. That is what Saint Paul is describing. We are no longer merely subjects obeying a king. We are children living in our Father's house. And that changes how we understand the Christian life. Many people imagine Christianity as an endless list of religious obligations. Pray. Fast. Confess. Attend services. Receive Holy Communion. Read the Scriptures. Give alms. Sometimes it can even feel exhausting. But what if we've misunderstood all of it? What if these are not assignments given by a strict schoolmaster? What if they are the ordinary practices by which children grow into the likeness of their Father? A child becomes part of a family in a single moment. But learning to speak like the family, to think like the family, to love like the family, takes years. So it is with us. The moment we are united to Christ, we truly become God's children. But growing into that reality is the work of a lifetime. As we discussed last week, that is why we return to church week after week. Why we pray the same prayers. Why we fast. Why we confess. Why we receive the Holy Mysteries. Not because we are trying to earn God's love, but because we already have it. These are the ordinary means by which the Holy Spirit forms us into the people God created us to be. Again, little by little, almost without noticing it, our desires begin to change. The sins we once loved begin to lose their attraction. The virtues that once seemed difficult begin to bring joy. We become more patient, more merciful, more truthful, more generous—not simply because we are trying harder or following more rules [even Orthodox rules], but because Christ is living His life within us. But this also comes with a warning. It is possible to remain spiritually immature. It is possible to spend years in the Church and still prefer the security of the guardian to the intimacy of the Father's house; to imagine that God is keeping score instead of raising a family; to measure our faith by checking boxes rather than by growing in love. Saint Paul calls us beyond that. He calls us into maturity. Into sonship. Into freedom—not the freedom to do whatever we please, but the freedom to become what we were created to be. And if we were to keep reading beyond today's Epistle, Paul brings his argument to its beautiful conclusion. He says, "Because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!'" Abba. That is the goal. Not merely that we obey God. Not merely that we fear God. But that, in Christ, we know God as our Father, and by the Holy Spirit we begin to love Him with the very love of the Son Himself. That is the fulfillment toward which the Law was always pointing. That is the life into which Christ has brought us. So let us not become discouraged if the road sometimes seems long or the growth seems slow. No child becomes an adult overnight. Formation takes time. God is patient, and He is faithful. As Saint Paul says elsewhere, "Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, let us press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." For this is the good news of today's Epistle. The Law brought God's people to Christ. Christ brings us to the Father. And the Holy Spirit patiently raises us into the mature sons and daughters we were created to become. That is the Christian life—not merely obeying God's commandments from the outside, but gradually becoming the kind of people in whom those commandments are fulfilled by the life of Christ Himself, until we can truly call upon God with confidence and joy, "Abba, Father."

DISCO MIXED TAPE cont. This episode of TTBA is a classic disco mixtape, sliding from Taka Boom's ‘Night Dancing' and the Gibson Brothers into G.Q's ‘Disco Nights'. The hour moves through cuts from the NYC Peech Boys, ABBA and Canadian duo The Raes, before ending on a high with Freeez and Whitney Houston. SINGING IN THE 80s The Monitors 1980 COMPUTER GAMES Mi-Sex 1979 DON’T YOU WANT ME Human League 1981 CHERCHEZ LA FEMME Dr Buzzards Original Savannah Band 1976 A LITTLE LOVIN’ (KEEPS THE DR. AWAY) The Raes 1979 I LIKE LOVE Norma Jean Wright 1978 HOT TO TROT Alfredo De La Fe 1979 I.O.U. Freeez 1983 I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (WHO LOVES ME) Whitney Houston 1987 The post TTBA Replay 24JUL2026 Pt. 4 appeared first on Turn the Beat Around.

DISCO MIXED TAPE This episode of TTBA is a classic disco mixtape, sliding from Taka Boom's ‘Night Dancing' and the Gibson Brothers into G.Q's ‘Disco Nights'. The hour moves through cuts from the NYC Peech Boys, ABBA and Canadian duo The Raes, before ending on a high with Freeez and Whitney Houston. NIGHT DANCING Taka Boom 1979 QUE SERA MI VIDA Gibson Brothers 1979 DISCO NIGHTS (ROCK FREAK) G.Q 1979 IS IT LOVE YOU’RE AFTER Rose Royce 1979 HELPLESS Jackie Moore 1980 ALL MY LOVE L.A.X 1980 LET’S GO ROUND AGAIN Average White Band 1980 YOU NEVER LOVED ME Ava Cherry 1980 DON’T MAKE ME WAIT Peech Boys 1982 LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ON ME ABBA 1981 The post TTBA Replay 24JUL2026 Pt. 3 appeared first on Turn the Beat Around.

God is more interested in transforming our inner lives than simply changing our outward appearance. In The Beautification Process, we discover that the Lord uses every season of our lives to shape our character, strengthen our faith, and help us reflect the image of Christ more clearly.Just as gold is refined by fire, God allows us to go through processes that, although sometimes difficult, produce spiritual beauty, maturity, and a heart fully surrendered to Him. Every trial, every season of waiting, and every challenge is part of His perfect work.True beauty begins when we allow the Holy Spirit to renew our minds, heal our wounds, and transform us from the inside out. The beauty that pleases God comes from a heart filled with love, humility, obedience, and holiness.

It's the best songs that feature the word give or take in the title. We'll ping pong and assemble another dynamite playlist where we'll hear from The New Radicals, Madonna, Supertramp, The All-American Rejects, Sammy Hagar, The Eagles, A-Ha, John Denver, ABBA, Hozier, and more.

Versão portuguesa da OdisseiaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Romans 8 is a powerful declaration of freedom, hope, and victory for those who belong to Christ. It begins with the assurance that there is no condemnation for those who are in Jesus and teaches believers to walk according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. Paul explains that we are children of God, adopted into His family, and able to cry, “Abba, Father.” The chapter also acknowledges suffering, yet reminds us that present trials cannot compare with the glory to come. Even when we do not know how to pray, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us. God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, and nothing—neither hardship, persecution, death, nor spiritual powers—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Key Verse: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 Hashtags: #Romans8 #NoCondemnation #NoSeparation #LifeInTheSpirit #ChildrenOfGod #GodWorksAllThings #MoreThanConquerors #LoveOfGod #HopeInChrist #BibleReflectionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.“Thank you for listening to SendMe Radio — where we share the Gospel, inspire faith, and keep you connected with powerful stories and updates from around the world. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe so you never miss a message.And remember — you can listen to SendMe Radio streaming 24/7 at www.sendmeradio.net or simply say: ‘Hey Alexa, play SendMe Radio.'

Romans 8 is a powerful declaration of freedom, hope, and victory for those who belong to Christ. It begins with the assurance that there is no condemnation for those who are in Jesus and teaches believers to walk according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. Paul explains that we are children of God, adopted into His family, and able to cry, “Abba, Father.” The chapter also acknowledges suffering, yet reminds us that present trials cannot compare with the glory to come. Even when we do not know how to pray, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us. God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, and nothing—neither hardship, persecution, death, nor spiritual powers—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Key Verse: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 Hashtags: #Romans8 #NoCondemnation #NoSeparation #LifeInTheSpirit #ChildrenOfGod #GodWorksAllThings #MoreThanConquerors #LoveOfGod #HopeInChrist #BibleReflectionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.“Thank you for listening to SendMe Radio — where we share the Gospel, inspire faith, and keep you connected with powerful stories and updates from around the world. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe so you never miss a message.And remember — you can listen to SendMe Radio streaming 24/7 at www.sendmeradio.net or simply say: ‘Hey Alexa, play SendMe Radio.'

Met vandaag: Hoe staat het met de democratie in Oekraïne? | Vraagtekens rondom dood 18-jarige zwarte jongen VS | Coot van Doesburgh vertaalde ABBA's Dancing Queen | Is hoogtevrees te bestrijden? | Presentatie: Wilfried de Jong

Sunday July 19, 2026:  The table was never the destination—it was always the beginning.In the final message of the Abba's Table series, we discover that beholding the Father always leads to becoming like Him. Jesus reveals the breathtaking truth that the Father loves us with the very same love He has for the Son, forever settling our place at His table.From that place of belonging, Jesus shows us what true maturity looks like. Before He ever picked up a towel, He knew who He was, whose He was, where He came from, and where He was going. Because His identity was secure, He was free to get low. Secure sons don't fight to be seen—they are free to kneel. They don't protect their position—they reveal the Father's nature through humility, honor, and sacrificial love. This message is an invitation to stop negotiating your place in the Father's house, receive the measure of His love, and become the kind of person who carries His heart into every relationship. Because belonging produces becoming, and becoming always looks like Jesus.

Sunday July 12, 2026: What if the safest place on earth isn't a place without truth, but a family where truth never threatens belonging?In this message, we explore Luke 15 through the lens of the Father's heart, discovering that God has never used shame to produce what only love can form. Jesus reveals a Father who runs toward His children, interrupts shame, and establishes belonging before transformation. Because in the Kingdom, we don't become so we can belong—we belong, and together we become. ABBA's Table_Belonging produces Becoming.pdf

As part of our Soul Care Summer, we're revisiting a conversation that's stayed with many listeners. Somewhere along the way, many of us picked up the idea that God can only look at us through gritted teeth, or worse, has to look away. Brad Jersak joins Michael to gently dismantle that picture, showing that the ache of feeling far from God was never God's doing.The conversation moves through a recovering addict's encounter with pure light, Cornelius in the book of Acts, and a fresh reading of Psalm 22, all pointing toward the same conviction, that the cross reveals a Father who stays present even in humanity's deepest cry of abandonment. Brad's higher Christology, it turns out, only widens the reach of Abba's love.Brad Jersak is an author and teacher based in Abbotsford, British Columbia, and serves as a reader and monastery preacher at All Saints of North America Orthodox Monastery. He previously joined Restoring the Soul in 2017 to discuss A More Christlike God, and returned to discuss In: Incarnation and Inclusion, Abba and Lamb.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

Iron Maiden sell their publishing rights to Pophouse Entertainment, the same company that has struck similar deals with ABBA and KISS, Candlebox continues an annoying industry trend with touring bands as they announce a 2026 tour after telling fans their farewell tour in 2023 would be their last, Alice Cooper announces 2026 North American fall tour that will feature all the elaborate stage props and theatrics that he's known for, and at the age of 95 William Shatner will take the stage at Riot Fest this September with his new metal band and has some hilariously odd requests on his backstage rider like 4 feet of polish sausage, a DeLorean instead of a golf cart and a montreal canadiens hockey jersey signed by John Stamos & more… PLUS ‘This Week in Rock & Roll History Trivia', Rock Birthdays, ‘The Best & Worst Rock Album Artwork of the Week' & much more!All of our links are up at www.rocknewsweekly.com every Monday, where you can check out the full episode on 8 platforms (including Amazon Audible & Apple/Google Podcasts). We pride ourselves in not using any AI artwork, products or services.Watch us LIVE, chat with us & more…Every Sunday around 2pm PST @ https://www.twitch.tv/rocknewsweeklyWatch all of our videos, interviews & subscribe at Youtube.com/@rocknewsweeklyFollow us online:Instagram.com/rocknewsweeklyFacebook.com/rocknewsweeklyTwitter.com/rocknewsweeklyTikTok.com/@rocknewsweekly#IronMaiden #AliceCooper #WilliamShatner #RiotFest #Candlebox#Rock #News #RockNews #RockNewsWeekly #RockNewsWeeklyPodcast #Podcast #Podcasts #Metal #HeavyMetal #Alt #Alternative #ClassicRock #70s #80s #90s #Indie #Trivia #RockTrivia #RockBirthdays #NewMusic #NewMusicReleases

The image we project may influence how others see us, but our true identity is revealed by the condition of our hearts before God. In The Power of Image (Part 2), we learn that the Lord is more interested in our character than our appearance, and in our obedience more than our reputation.In a culture that values outward success and recognition, God calls His people to reflect the image of Christ through humility, integrity, holiness, and love. A transformed life becomes a testimony that points others to Him.When we allow the Holy Spirit to work within us, He removes pride, hypocrisy, and the desire for human approval, replacing them with a heart that seeks to honor God above all else.

Jesus taught His followers to pray by calling God Father. For many, that truth feels overwhelming: How can sinful people approach the holy and righteous God with such intimacy? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef explains that we can call God Father only because of the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Without the sacrificial death of Jesus, there is no forgiveness. But through His death and resurrection, believers are redeemed, restored to right fellowship with God, and adopted into His family. By the Holy Spirit, we no longer live as slaves to fear—we cry, “Abba, Father.” Dr. Youssef also reminds us that Biblical repentance is not self-improvement; it is receiving Christ's free gift of salvation. In Him, we are given new life, freedom from the past, power to change, and the right to come to God in prayer. When you cry out to God and wonder whether He hears, do not give up. Because of Christ's atoning blood, you can approach the throne of grace with confidence, receiving mercy and finding grace in your time of need. Pray with me.  Father God, thank You for having compassion on me and for the joy of intimate communion with You. In trials, help me not to become discouraged but to find hope and even joy in my standing before you as your adopted, beloved child. I pray I will use the new life You have given me to honor You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Christian Love...Mission for Diocease of Kafanchan Model College 7-19-26 Fr. Williams Abba

Old Testament: Genesis 28:10-19a 10Jacob left Beer-sheba and went toward Haran. 11He came to a certain place and stayed there for the night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place. 12And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, the top of it reaching to heaven; and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. 13And the Lord stood beside him and said, "I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring; 14and your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and all the families of the earth shall be blessed in you and in your offspring. 15Know that I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." 16Then Jacob woke from his sleep and said, "Surely the Lord is in this place—and I did not know it!" 17And he was afraid, and said, "How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven." 18So Jacob rose early in the morning, and he took the stone that he had put under his head and set it up for a pillar and poured oil on the top of it. 19He called that place Bethel. Psalm: Psalm 139:1-11, 22-23  1 Lord, you have searched me out and known me; *        you know my sitting down and my rising up;        you discern my thoughts from afar. 2 You trace my journeys and my resting-places *        and are acquainted with all my ways. 3 Indeed, there is not a word on my lips, *        but you, O Lord, know it altogether. 4 You press upon me behind and before *        and lay your hand upon me. 5 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; *        it is so high that I cannot attain to it. 6 Where can I go then from your Spirit? *        where can I flee from your presence? 7 If I climb up to heaven, you are there; *        if I make the grave my bed, you are there also. 8 If I take the wings of the morning *        and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 9 Even there your hand will lead me *        and your right hand hold me fast. 10 If I say, "Surely the darkness will cover me, *        and the light around me turn to night," 11 Darkness is not dark to you;    the night is as bright as the day; *        darkness and light to you are both alike. 22 Search me out, O God, and know my heart; *        try me and know my restless thoughts. 23 Look well whether there be any wickedness in me *        and lead me in the way that is everlasting. Epistle: Romans 8:12-25 12So then, brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— 13for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, "Abba! Father!" 16it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him. 18I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. 19For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God; 20for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and will obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; 23and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? 25But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Gospel: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 24He put before them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; 25but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. 26So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. 27And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?' 28He answered, 'An enemy has done this.' The slaves said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?' 29But he replied, 'No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. 30Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.'" 36Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples approached him, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field." 37He answered, "The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; 38the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one, 39and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. 40Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age.41The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, 42and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let anyone with ears listen!

Listen along as we continue through 2 Peter. Notes//Quotes: 2 Peter 1:10-15 - Jorgen/Larry Title: Last Words “In this sense holiness refers to a state of being separate, set apart from the ordinary or mundane and dedicated to a particular purpose or use. The Hebrew adjective for "holy" (qadosh) literally means "separate," since it derives from a verb meaning "to cut off" or "to separate!" Together with its cognates it is used to designate particular places (especially the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies), objects (e.g., Aaron's garments and the Sabbath day, and persons (e.g., the priests and Levites) as specially set apart or sanctified to the Lord. An example is found in Exodus 13:2: "Consecrate to me all the first-born; whatever is the first to open the womb among the people of Israel, both of man and of beast, is mine." Similarly, the holiness of God signifies his separateness from anything impure.” - Millard Erickson “those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…” (1 Cor. 1:2) “The term sanctification does not appear in the Synoptic Gospels at all. To convey the idea that our lives are to be pure, Jesus emphasized instead that we are children of God. We belong to God and consequently should show a likeness to him. We should share his spirit of love: "You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy! But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-45a). To Jesus, his brother and sister are those who do God's will (Mark 3:35). Paul shares this conception that our status before God is to result in holy living. For example, he urges the Ephesians, "I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called" (Eph. 4:1). He then goes on to specify a life of lowliness, meekness, patience, and forbearance. The fact of belonging to God is to issue in moral attributes reflecting such a status.” - Millard Erickson “Our reckoning with purity culture is good and necessary. It's helped many Christians rediscover a God who loves wounded people, not perfect performances, but I fear that in the process of tearing down purity culture, we may have kissed purity itself goodbye. And that's a problem. My generation is porn addicted, drug dependent, dopamine sick, irony poisoned, attention fractured, and spiritually starved. We've traded repression for indulgence, and the result isn't freedom-it's decay. It turns out the Christian sexual ethic once derided as prudish is one of the last coherent frameworks for love, dignity, and belonging. Purity, rightly understood, isn't about fear. It's about reverence. It's not about suppressing desire but directing it.” - Luke Simons “15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God…” (Romans 8:15&16)

Lucas 15:11 en adelanteLa historia de un amor incomprensibleLa historia que estamos por leer es conocida para toda la iglesia, pero hoy quiero que conozcas más el corazón de Abum (término utilizado por Jesús en lengua Aramea cuando hablaba con Dios, término similar en Griego de Abba) y además enseñarte algunos aspectos de esta parábola que Jesús narró.Con esta parábola, Jesús quiso re enfocar la atención del mundo religioso de su época a la esencia del corazón de Dios.Lucas 15:11-13 (RVR1960) "También dijo: Un hombre tenía dos hijos; y el menor de ellos dijo a su padre: Padre, dame la parte de los bienes que me corresponde; y les repartió los bienes. No muchos días después, juntándolo todo el hijo menor, se fue lejos a una provincia apartada, y allí desperdició sus bienes viviendo perdidamente."La desfachatez de pedir la herenciaEsta historia nos muestra el día a día de una familia: un padre, dos hijos, una finca, mucha abundancia y mucho trabajo. Pero, de un momento a otro, el hijo menor tiene la desfachatez y el atrevimiento de pedirle a su padre su parte de la herencia en vida.Al pedir esto, está comprometiendo incluso la economía de su padre, ya que al dividir la herencia, el anciano tiene que entregar una gran parte de su patrimonio. Pensemos por un momento en el dolor que le causó; el padre pensaba que su hijo estaba feliz trabajando a su lado, y de pronto recibe este golpe de exigirle lo suyo. Esto nos hace entender que, cuando el muchacho regresa, lo que queda en la finca es realmente la parte del hijo mayor. Las implicaciones son muy fuertes, en el fondo es decirle a su padre: "no me importa cómo sobrevivas en tu vejez, yo quiero mi mundo, mi vida, mis derechos, lo mío; no me importas tú". El hijo menor hizo exactamente lo opuesto a este mandato: deshonró a su padre al máximo nivel, tratándolo como si ya no le importara su vida.Al romper ese mandamiento, automáticamente se desconectó de la promesa. Por eso la historia da un giro tan drástico: como no honró a su padre, no le fue bien. Perdió su dinero, perdió su dignidad y terminó en la ruina deseando comer lo que le daban a los cerdos.La iglesia tiene que entender que honrar a los padres y a Dios no es solo un tema de reglas o respeto, sino de protección y bendición para nuestro propio futuro. ¿Cuántas veces hacemos nosotros lo mismo? Nos acercamos exigiendo nuestros derechos, buscando nuestras bendiciones y “nuestra parte”, pero olvidándonos por completo de cuidar nuestra relación con quien nos lo da todo. “Hoy en día la falta de honra a los padres está acabando con la vida de los hijos, llevándolos a brotes de maldición, enfermedad, ruina, dolor, sufrimiento; La Palabra dice en Efesios 6:2-3 “Honra a tu padre y a tu madre, que es el primer mandamiento con promesa; para que te vaya bien, y seas de larga vida sobre la tierra.”La seducción de una ciudad lejanaCuando trato de averiguar qué pasó en el corazón de este muchacho, me lo imagino en sus años de juventud, trabajando duro de sol a sol, limpiando establos y recogiendo cultivos. Su padre pensaba que estaba formando a un heredero, pero no sabía que, en el fondo, alguien le había robado el corazón a su hijo.El plan estaba amañado; cuando pidió la herencia, ya sabía a dónde ir: a una ciudad distante, lo más lejos posible de su papá. Me lo imagino recostado en la cerca de la finca, viendo a la gente pasar y escuchando historias sobre la ciudad de la diversión, ese lugar donde la vida comienza justo cuando el sol se oculta. Al ver las luces de esa ciudad noche tras noche, comenzó a soñar. Poco a poco, su corazón se fue despegando de su padre, sin darse cuenta de que, al hacerlo, perdía su propia identidad. Creía que no tenía nada, pero en realidad lo tenía todo en el amor de su papá.La lejanía con el Padre no comienza con un viaje físico, sino con una mirada constante hacia lo que el mundo ofrece. Es la tragedia de olvidar quiénes somos y menospreciar el amor incondicional por culpa de un espejismo.El origen de nuestro valor y propósitoEsta historia del hijo pródigo, en la cual él pierde la conexión con su padre, es nuestra propia historia. A veces, teniéndolo todo, te dejas engañar por la seducción del enemigo que te susurra: "No necesitas depender de tu Padre para llegar a alguna parte, puedes hacerlo por ti mismo". Al dejarte seducir y rebelarte, pierdes el vínculo y tu propia identidad.Tú vienes del aliento del padre, él fue el que sopló en nosotros y nos hizo seres humanos, y tenemos dignidad porque venimos de Dios, porque venimos de él. Él es tu fuente, él es el que te da propósito y te da identidad. Cuando tú estás conectado con él, recibes el sentido, propósito, fuerza y sueños de Dios que le dan sentido a tu vida. Pero cuando te rebelas contra él, pierdes el tesoro más grande. Y aunque el pródigo peleó por una cosa material porque lo material le había robado el corazón, en realidad perdió lo más valioso que era la amistad de él con su padre.La Palabra nos recuerda en Santiago 1:17 (RVR1960): "Toda buena dádiva y todo don perfecto desciende de lo alto, del Padre de las luces, en el cual no hay mudanza, ni sombra de variación."Todo lo bueno y perfecto desciende a ti de parte de Dios tu padre, quien creó todas las luces de los cielos, él nunca cambia ni varía como una sombra en movimiento. Él es perfecto, él es luz, él es tu fuente, él es tu defensa, él es tu abogado, él es tu Dios, él es tu padre, tu mejor amigo, él es tu refugio, él es tu casa, él es tu Señor. Y el pródigo nunca entendió que desligarse del Padre, lo perdió todo, porque el que tiene al padre lo tiene todo.Qué triste cuando peleas por cosas, porque quieres que el padre te dé cosas a costa de él, cuántas veces buscas bendiciones sin darte cuenta de que, el que tiene al dador de las bendiciones lo tiene todo. Si tú has probado cualquier cosa buena y edificante, probaste un regalo que sólo viene de Dios. El tener el amor de un padre, de una madre, lo inventó Dios. El poder tener el beso de una amada, lo inventó Dios. El besar a un hijo en la frente, lo regaló Dios. Tu salud la regala Dios, la bendición en los negocios lo regala Dios, el salir en la vida adelante es un regalo de tu Padre celestial. Cuenta tus bendiciones porque detrás de esas bendiciones está tu Padre celestial.La peor tragedia humana no es perder cosas materiales, sino perder nuestra identidad y nuestro propósito al desconectarnos de nuestra única fuente de vida: nuestro Padre celestial. El que tiene al Padre, lo tiene absolutamente todo.La ilusión del mundo y la verdadera miseriaEl hijo pródigo pensó que la vida era hacer lo que le daba la gana, lejos de la obediencia. Pero quien se desliga del amor del Padre, se somete a la esclavitud de sus propios deseos.Lucas 15:14-16 (RVR1960) "Y cuando todo lo hubo malgastado, vino una gran hambre en aquella provincia, y comenzó a faltarle. Y fue y se arrimó a uno de los ciudadanos de aquella tierra, el cual le envió a su hacienda para que apacentase cerdos. Y deseaba llenar su vientre de las algarrobas que comían los cerdos, pero nadie le daba."Regresa no como un noble, sino como un reo: sucio, rapado y maloliente. El mundo nos engaña haciéndonos creer que vivir alejados de Dios es libertad, pero nos encadena a la búsqueda de fama y de posesiones. Nos pone a competir con todos para demostrar que valemos ...

Repasamos las mejores canciones que han sonado a lo largo de la semana e incorporamos novedades recién publicadas como "Palomita de Ojos Azules", de Ganges, "Crash Out", de Tinashe, "Lost Boys", en acústico de Phoebe Bridgers o la inédita de David Bowie "I Want Your Love".  El clásico del día es "Dancing Queen", de ABBA, con motivo de su 50º aniversario. TINASHE - Crash OutOVERMONO - Knight In Shining Prada (feat. John Joseph Holt)CONFIDENCE MAN - Young LondonQUEENS OF THE STONE AGE - Easy StreetDAVID BOWIE - I Want Your Love (2026 Remaster)JACK WHITE - Thick As ThievesNIA ARCHIVES - Get Me Down (ft. Jorja Smith)GANGES - Palomita de Ojos AzulesSUKI WATERHOUSE - Tiny RaisinTHE LINDA LINDAS & HAYLEY WILLIAMS - CloserPHOEBE BRIDGERS - Lost Boys (Acoustic)TYLER BALLGAME - Live It DownABBA - Dancing QueenANABEL LEE - Wilson DEAR JOANNE - No Te AtrevesRIVALS - Bite The BulletBECK - In The NightEscuchar audio

Welcome to Day 2906 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. Day 2906 – Theology Thursday – Prayer as Communion, Petition, and Covenant: From Ancient Near East to Modern Faith Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2906 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2906 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled PRAYER AS COMMUNION, PETITION, AND COVENANT: FROM THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST TO MODERN FAITH. In the religious systems of the ancient Near East, prayer was a vital function, though its framework was drastically different from what later developed in Israelite and Christian thought. Prayer was primarily a method of maintaining the cosmic order through appeasement and transaction. Gods in Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Egypt were seen as powerful but unpredictable, often requiring elaborate rituals, sacrifices, and formulas to grant favor or avert wrath. These cultures did not operate under a theology of relational covenant but rather through a pattern of reciprocity: offerings and words were meant to provoke a specific divine response. Babylonian prayer texts like the “Shurpu” and “Maqlu” series reflect a deep concern with curses, omens, and unseen transgressions. The supplicant might not even know which god was offended or what sin was committed. In such cases, prayers became generalized pleas for forgiveness from all deities. Egyptian prayers often took the form of hymns to the gods, extolling their attributes and requesting protection or intervention, especially concerning the afterlife. Canaanite prayer and sacrifice, while less preserved in textual form, mirrored these transactional patterns. Ultimately, prayer in the ANE was primarily about control, using proper language and rites to maintain divine favor and personal or national survival. The first segment is: The Distinctive Voice of Ancient Israel: Relational and Covenant-Based. The emergence of Israel as a people devoted to Yahweh introduced a significant break from the ANE paradigm. While early Israelite religion still bore some cultural similarities to its surroundings, the theology of Yahweh as a covenantal, relational deity revolutionized the nature of prayer. No longer was prayer simply a means of magical manipulation or guesswork. It became a medium through which a person engaged with a God who had revealed His name, His character, and His promises. The earliest biblical prayers, such as those found in Genesis, reflect this relational nature. Abraham argues with God over the fate of Sodom, appealing not to ritual but to God's justice. Moses intercedes for Israel after the golden calf incident, reminding Yahweh of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These prayers do not treat Yahweh as distant or unknowable but rather as a God who can be reasoned with, challenged, and persuaded because of His own covenant loyalty. The Book of Psalms shows the breadth of human emotion brought before God: joy, fear, doubt, anger, and praise. Lament becomes a central form of worship, as seen in the cries of David or the national laments after Jerusalem's destruction. These are not sterile performances but passionate expressions of faith. Prayer becomes an act of courage, a wrestling with God, a protest against silence, and a clinging to hope when the world falls apart. The second segment is: From Temple to Synagogue: Formalization in Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism. As the Hebrew Bible gave way to the practices of Second Temple Judaism, especially after the exile, prayer began to evolve in response to historical necessity. With the destruction of the First Temple and the loss of the sacrificial system, the Jewish people turned increasingly to prayer and study as their central forms of worship. What was once spontaneous became structured. What was once private became communal. During this period, daily prayer rhythms began to emerge. Fixed times of prayer, morning, afternoon, and evening, mirrored the times of temple sacrifice and were eventually institutionalized. The Amidah, or “Standing Prayer,” developed into a core liturgical centerpiece. It offered a framework of blessings praising God, requesting needs, and praying for national restoration. The Shema, a declaration of God's unity and Israel's devotion, became part of daily prayer and identity. After the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, Rabbinic Judaism restructured prayer life around the synagogue. Prayer was no longer centered on the priesthood and sacrificial rites but on the Torah, communal liturgy, and ethical action. This shift preserved Jewish identity during centuries of diaspora. Though formalized, prayer retained its relational element. It became the heartbeat of Jewish life, binding communities together and anchoring them to God's enduring promises. The Third Segment is: Prayer Reimagined in Early Christianity: Access through Christ. The earliest Christians, being Jews themselves, inherited this rich tradition of covenantal and liturgical prayer. Yet their belief in Jesus as the risen Messiah transformed their approach to prayer in significant ways. Central to this transformation was the idea of direct access to God through Christ. Jesus's own prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer, serve as both instruction and theological statement. The address “Our Father” reflects unprecedented intimacy. It reaffirms the covenantal relationship while highlighting the nearness and care of God. The prayer also orients the believer toward God's will, God's kingdom, and daily dependence, not merely petition. The Apostle Paul builds on this foundation by portraying prayer as a Spirit-driven communion. Believers are said to cry out “Abba, Father” by the Spirit. Paul claims that even when words fail, the Spirit intercedes with groanings too deep for speech. This understanding of prayer shifts it away from set ritual toward a continual, personal interaction with the divine. In Christian theology, Jesus becomes the eternal High Priest, interceding on behalf of believers. This transforms the act of prayer from an attempt to reach an uncertain deity into an assurance of access to a loving Father through a faithful Son. Whether corporate or private, spontaneous or formal, prayer is understood as the believer's participation in the divine relationship secured by Christ. The Fourth Segment is: Boundaries and Prohibitions: When Prayer Becomes Misuse. While prayer is central to both testaments, not all prayer is accepted. The Bible gives several warnings about misguided or forbidden types of prayer. Chief among these is prayer to other gods. The First Commandment is clear: Israel was not to call on or serve any deity but Yahweh. This was not a cultural preference but a matter of covenant loyalty. Invoking Baal, Molech, or Asherah was not neutral. It was spiritual adultery. Another prohibited form was manipulative or theatrical prayer, often seen in paganism. The prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel danced and cut themselves, trying to compel their god to act. Elijah mocks this as futile. Jesus echoes this in the New Testament when He warns against “vain repetitions” and showy public displays. The goal of biblical prayer is not to impress people or mechanically control God. It is relational. Also forbidden were necromancy and communication with the dead, practices common in surrounding cultures. Deuteronomy 18 lists these among the detestable practices of the nations that Israel was not to imitate. Prayer was not to be blended with conjuring or attempts to access hidden knowledge through forbidden means. Later rabbinic tradition added safeguards to ensure prayer was done with the right heart. One was not to pray while intoxicated, or in moments of ritual impurity, or without focus. Christian writers like James and Peter also warn against praying from selfish motives or while harboring unresolved sin. The Fifth segment is: Rhythm and Repetition: Between Discipline and Pagan Imitation Repetitious or rhythmic prayer is sometimes misunderstood. Scripture does not forbid repetition outright, but it sharply distinguishes between reverent repetition and pagan-style incantations. Psalm 136 repeats the phrase “His steadfast love endures forever” 26 times as an act of worship, not manipulation. Many psalms and prayers use repetition as a poetic or liturgical feature, meant to reinforce covenant truths and lead the heart toward trust. The Shema and priestly blessing were repeated regularly in Jewish worship. Jesus's warning in Matthew 6 verse seven, “Do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do,” targets the kind of mechanical babbling seen in magical or pagan rituals. It does not prohibit...

Stuart Ward grew up on a council estate in Exeter, England, obsessed with pirate radio, chart positions, and — oddly — record labels. That obsession, plus a teenage belief that Sweden had cracked the code on a fairer society, eventually carried him across the North Sea, first as a chartered accountant, then as one of Swedish television and radio's most recognisable voices for decades.Stuart hosted Night Flight Scandinavia and Top Gear Nordic (a name he lifted straight from John Peel's old BBC show, nothing to do with cars), interviewed everyone from Paul McCartney to Barry Humphries to Pelé, ran the Polar Music Prize — often called the Nobel Prize of music — and, in between all of it, tried and failed to build a political career in the UK Labour Party before finding his footing instead in Swedish politics. He also spent over a decade at the Swedish Embassy in Bangkok and lived in Thailand for eighteen years.In this episode, Stuart and host Bob Wells talk about chasing a dream with zero self-confidence, what changes when you go from radio to television, the etiquette of never looking starstruck, and why curiosity — not talent — might be the real secret behind a rich life.In This Episode You'll LearnHow a working-class boy from Exeter who could name every record label on the UK charts ended up in the Swedish music businessWhy Stuart moved to Sweden as a chartered accountant in 1973 — and why he stayedThe real story behind the name "Top Gear Nordic" (hint: it's a John Peel tribute, not a car show)What it was like trading a UK parliamentary candidacy for a life with the man he loved, at a time when that wasn't something you talked about openlyThe unglamorous technical side of early live TV versus the freewheeling looseness of radioWhy one veteran cameraman told Stuart he had a rare gift for getting people to open up on cameraStuart's interviews with Paul McCartney (who ended up interviewing him), Barry Humphries/Dame Edna, John Cleese, Pelé, and Björn BorgThe Swedish concept of Jantelagen — a kind of built-in social suspicion of standing out — and how it echoes attitudes Stuart encountered growing up in EnglandHow Stuart came to run the Polar Music Prize, founded by ABBA's co-creator Stig Anderson to bridge classical music's snobbery and popular music's lack of respectWhy the King of Sweden presents the Polar Music Prize the same way he presents the Nobel Prizes — and the historical reason the Nobel Peace Prize alone is awarded in Oslo, not StockholmThe office politics and "dinosaurs" Stuart contended with while running a prestigious international prizeLife after presenting: over a decade working at the Swedish Embassy in Bangkok, eighteen years living in Thailand, and returning to Sweden to restart his political career with the Social DemocratsWhy door-to-door canvassing at 77 has led to some surprising language moments — including conversations in fluent Thai that stopped Swedish neighbours in their tracksStuart's take on what actually produces a zest for life: curiosity, self-belief, and refusing to assume the world only exists in whatever room you happen to be standing inResources;The Polar Music Prize Royal Swedish Academy of MusicYouTube: Stuart Ward Top GearQuestion or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

What happens when you finally say yes to the life that's been calling you even when the fear is real, and the path isn't clear?   In this episode of Someone Gets Me, Dianne A. Allen is joined by Canadian guitarist and musician Chris Eveland for a rich, honest conversation about what it really takes to leave behind a stable career and step fully into your passion. After 21 years on the floor at Ford Motor Company, Chris made the leap — no plan, no guarantee, just a belief that something more was possible.    Chris and Dianne explore the performing arts, personal sovereignty, and the courage it takes to stop living someone else's definition of success and start living your own. This episode is a reminder that the doors you walk through when you say yes to yourself are doors that never close.   Watch the Someone Gets Me Podcast as we talk about why Change is Good.   Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe to the channel, tap the notification bell, and leave a comment!   You can also listen to the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.   Chris Eveland is a dynamic and versatile guitarist whose style emulates many genres. With a deep passion for music that began at a young age, Chris has spent over 35 years and north of 3000 live shows, honing his craft, developing a reputation for technical skill, emotive playing, and a unique sound that blends many of his influences. Chris has performed in Theaters, Festivals, Arenas all over North America and the UK as well. As a composer, he creates intricate, melodic guitar parts that resonate with many listeners and has him known as a go-to hired professional. Whether on stage or in the studio, Chris brings an infectious energy and technical precision that resonates with audiences and fellow musicians alike. Chris also has acquired an Artist endorsement deal with the Canadian guitar company Godin. In addition to performing, Chris has collaborated and toured with Sony BMG recording artist Aaron Walpole (3rd place Canadian Idol) and is currently working with a North American touring Abba tribute. Known for his improvisational skills and stage presence, he brings a fresh and exciting approach to every performance, leaving a lasting impact wherever he goes. Chris is currently performing, recording, and touring with SOS the Abba Experience, FyRe, John Milles Music, Sammi and the Boys, and is regularly hired as a fill-in for many bands in Ontario. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisevelandmusic/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eveland5150/    How to Connect with Dianne A. Allen   Dianne A. Allen, MA is an intuitive mentor, speaker, author, ambassador, hope agent, life catalyst, and the CEO and Founder of Visions Applied. She has been involved in personal and professional development and mental health and addiction counseling. She inspires people in personal transformation through thought provoking services from speaking and podcasting to individual intuitive mentoring and more. She uses her years of experience coupled with years of formal education to blend powerful, practical, and effective strategies and tools for success and satisfaction. She has authored several books, which include How to Quit Anything in 5 Simple Steps - Break the Chains that Bind You, The Loneliness Cure, A Guide to Contentment, 7 Simple Steps to Get Back on track and Live the Life You Envision, Daily Meditations for Visionary Leaders, Hope Realized, and Where Do You Fit In?   Website: https://msdianneallen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianne_a_allen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/msdianneallen/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianneallen/# Twitter: https://x.com/msdianneallen   Check out Dianne's new book, Care for the Neurodivergent Soul. https://a.co/d/cTBSxQv   Visit Dianne's Amazon author page. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0F7N457KS   You have a vision inside to create something bigger than you. What you need is a community and a mentor. Personal mentoring will inspire you to grow, transform, and connect in new ways. The Someone Gets Me Experience could be that perfect solution to bringing your heart's desire into reality. You will grow, transform, and connect. https://msdianneallen.com/someone-gets-me-experience/   For a complimentary “Get to Know You” 30-minute call: https://visionsapplied.as.me/schedule.php?appointmentType=4017868   Join our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/someonegetsme   Follow Dianne's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/msdianneallen   Email contact: dianne@visionsapplied.com   Dianne's Mentoring Services: https://msdianneallen.com/  

It is rare that a constructor debuts on a Sunday, but Collin Drown, a PhD student at Virginia Commonwealth University — go Rodney the Ram! ... really, that's the VCU mascot — has pulled it off, and in fine style. The theme was quite wry, with just the right amount of punpernickel™️, and the supporting cast of clues was definitely up to the task. We have the full 411 inside, as well as a very nice bit of listener mail for your enjoyment, so, ... enjoy!Show note imagery: The North ARAL Sea, before the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea got to workWe love feedback! Send us a text...Contact Info:We love listener mail! Drop us a line, crosswordpodcast@icloud.com.Also, we're on FaceBook, so feel free to drop by there and strike up a conversation!

BECAUSE OF THE CROSS  |  JULY 5, 2026Pastor Wes Morris I Corinthians 11:23-26 (TLB) For this is what the Lord himself has said about his Table, and I have passed it on to you before: That on the night when Judas betrayed him, the Lord Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks to God for it, he broke it and gave it to his disciples and said, “Take this and eat it. This is my body, which is broken for you. Do this to remember me.”In the same way, he took the cup of wine after supper, saying, “This cup is the new agreement between God and you that has been established and set in motion by my blood. Do this in remembrance of me whenever you drink it.” For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup you are retelling the message of the Lord's death, that he has died for you. Do this until he comes again.Communion is more than remembering Jesus' death; it is celebrating the victory that changed everything.THE QUESTIONS WE ALL CARRYCan I be free from my past?Does my life really matter?Is there hope for my future?BECAUSE OF THE CROSS√ MY PAST IS FORGIVEN.Colossians 2:13-14 (NLT) You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.Romans 7:21-8:1 (NLT) I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.8:1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. √ MY IDENTITY IS SECURE.Romans 8:15-17 (NLT) So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.√  MY FUTURE IS FILLED WITH HOPE.I Peter 1:3 (TLB) All honor to God, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; for it is his boundless mercy that has given us the privilege of being born again so that we are now members of God's own family. Now we live in the hope of eternal life because Christ rose again from the dead.

TODAY'S TREASUREYou did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!' Romans 8:15Send us a comment!Support the show

October 2, 2022 - Inspired by J.C. Ryle's treatise on prayer. The extended introduction for our October episodes ends at the 7:20 mark, and while there is some benefit (I believe) in listening to it again, if you would like, you can fast forward to that mark and begin the episode.J.C. Ryle boldly asserts:“This is one of the common marks of all the elect of God, “They cry unto him day and night” (Luke 18:1). The Holy Spirit, who makes them new creatures, works in them the feeling of adoption, and makes them cry, “Abba, Father” (Rom. 8:15). The Lord Jesus, when he quickens them, gives them a voice and a tongue, and says to them, “Be dumb no more.” God has no dumb children. It is as much as They see their need of mercy and grace. They feel their emptiness and weakness. They can not do otherwise than they do. They must pray.”Do you pray?Feeling empty, sad, stressed? We may have problems and plans we might make, indeed need to make as a solution. However, our first call for perspective, hope, joy, and power should be to the God of all comfort. If you need a spiritual kick in the pants to ignite your prayer life, October is the month for you. Glory to God in the highest. “What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more.” Robert Murray M'CheyneAssistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossardwww.frponprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 008Episode 035

We have built some real momentum in the readings for this first half of summer. Of course, you may have a congregation that is in a week, out a week — or, if you have lots of snowbirds, either your sanctuary feels more full or more empty. But the texts march on, and so do we!This is the second Sunday inside Matthew's parables chapter. Last week the Parable of the Sower opened the section; this week we get the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds. Both parables share an image of a field, a sower, and a problem — but they ask different questions. The Sower asks what happens to the word once it has been scattered. The Wheat and the Weeds asks how to live in a field where good and bad are mixed and indistinguishable, and what to do when the impulse rises to sort it out ourselves.Image courtesy of Sickle of Truth: A Bible Student BlogThe Old Testament tracks both lead toward the Gospel in different ways. * Track One follows Jacob deeper into Genesis — to the famous dream at Bethel, where Jacob, fleeing his brother's anger, lays his head on a stone and sees a ladder reaching to heaven. Psalm 139 pairs with that scene by insisting there is no place where God's presence does not reach. * Track Two offers a choice between Wisdom of Solomon's meditation on the lenient sovereignty of God and Isaiah's short, sharp declaration of God's uniqueness; both are paired with Psalm 86, including its prayer for an undivided heart. * The Epistle continues the long climb through Romans 8 — today's portion includes some of Paul's most stirring language about being children of God, the groaning of creation, and the patience of hope.A note for preachers following a series: this Sunday continues the new arc of parables. The Sower (last week), the Wheat and the Weeds (today), and in coming weeks the Mustard Seed, the Yeast, the Hidden Treasure, the Pearl, and the Net — these images are the way Jesus has chosen to talk about the kingdom of heaven. Our job as preachers, increasingly, is to slow down enough to let the images do their work.The ReadingsGenesis 28:10–19aFirst Reading (Track One) — Jacob's Dream at BethelSummaryJacob is on the run. He has just cheated his brother Esau out of their father's blessing, and Esau has vowed to kill him. Rebekah has sent him toward her brother's house in Haran, ostensibly to find a wife but really to keep him alive. The selected verses pick him up somewhere on the road, alone, in an unnamed place at sundown. He takes a stone, puts it under his head, and lies down. And he dreams: a ladder, or stairway, with its foot on the ground and its top reaching up into the heavens, and the angels of God going up and down on it. God stands beside him — or above the ladder — and renews the covenant once given to Abraham: this land, descendants beyond counting, blessing for all the families of the earth. And then the line on which the whole scene turns: I am with you and will keep you wherever you go. Jacob wakes, and the first words out of his mouth are: Surely the Lord is in this place — and I did not know it. He is afraid. He calls the place awesome. He sets up the stone as a pillar, pours oil on it, and names the place Bethel — house of God.Key Ideas for Preaching* Jacob is fleeing the consequences of his own deception. The grace God gives him in this dream is given to a manipulator on the run. Where in your congregation are people quietly assuming that God's presence is reserved for those who have their lives sorted out, and how might Jacob's story interrupt that?* “Surely the Lord is in this place — and I did not know it.” That is one of the most honest lines in Genesis. Jacob discovers that God has been somewhere he did not expect, and he himself was the last to notice. Where in your people's lives might God have been present in a place they did not credit, and what would it look like to wake up to it now?* The ladder is set up on the earth. The traffic on it is two-way — angels ascending and descending. Heaven and earth are connected, and the connection runs in both directions. How might this image steady a congregation that imagines God as remote, or imagines spiritual life as something we have to climb up to?* The promise God speaks to Jacob is mostly about presence: I am with you and will keep you wherever you go. Not just here at this holy site, but on the road. What might it mean for your people that the God of Bethel is the same God of every uncomfortable, unconsecrated place their lives will take them?Significant Cautions* Do not romanticize Jacob into a hero of the dream. He is, at this point in Genesis, a deceiver running from his consequences. The point of the scene is not Jacob's virtue but God's grace toward someone who has not earned it.* “House of God” language can be too quickly applied to a church building. The place Jacob names Bethel is a piece of open ground with a stone in it. The text is not really endorsing sacred architecture; it is naming places where God surprises us.* The promise that Jacob's offspring will inherit the land has had a long and painful history of being used to justify the taking of land from other people. If you touch this part of the text, handle it carefully and avoid reading the ancient promise as a blanket endorsement of any modern claim.Psalm 139:1–12, 23–24The Psalm (Track One) — You Have Searched Me and Known MeSummaryOne of the most intimate and personal psalms in the Bible. The opening verses celebrate God's deep knowledge of the psalmist — sitting down and rising up, the thoughts before they are spoken, the path before it is taken. The middle section asks the question Jacob might have asked: where can I go from your presence? The answer is: nowhere. Not heaven, not Sheol, not the wings of the morning, not the deepest sea, not the darkness. Even the darkness is not dark to God; the night is as bright as the day. The lectionary skips the harder middle verses and picks up at the closing: search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts; see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.Key Ideas for Preaching* This psalm reads like a meditation on Jacob's realization — surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it. The psalm extends that to every place. Where in your congregation might people need to hear that there is no place outside God's attention, and what does that mean for the places they are quietly afraid to go?* “Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day.” That is one of the most beautiful sentences in the psalms. How might your sermon let your people feel the kindness of that line — not God's surveillance, but God's presence in the very darkness they have been hiding in?* The closing prayer asks God to search the psalmist — not to judge but to lead. That is a remarkable posture. Where in your people's lives might openness to being known by God be more freeing than the long work of self-management?Significant Cautions* God's constant knowing can feel like surveillance, especially to people who have lived under abusive or controlling authorities. Be gentle with this language. The God of Psalm 139 holds us, not watches us.* The omitted middle verses (19–22) contain harsh language about hating God's enemies. The lectionary leaves these out for good reason. If you reach for them, handle them with care.Wisdom of Solomon 12:13, 16–19First Reading (Track Two, primary option) — You Are Lord of AllSummaryFrom the book of Wisdom, part of the Apocrypha (or deuterocanonical books, depending on tradition). The selected verses celebrate God's universal sovereignty and patient mercy. There is no other God beside this one, the text says, and this God's strength is the source of righteousness. Because God is sovereign over all, God can afford to be lenient — to spare all, to be patient with all, to leave room for repentance. And then the closing line that may be why the lectionary pairs this with today's Gospel: through such acts, God teaches the people that the righteous must be kind.Key Ideas for Preaching* The connection the text makes between God's sovereignty and God's mercy is striking. Because God is in total command, God can be patient. Cruelty and impatience are the marks of weakness, not strength. Where in your congregation has impatience been mistaken for moral seriousness, and what would it look like to learn the patience of the strong?* “The righteous must be kind.” That is, in five words, the ethical conclusion the text draws from God's character. Where in your congregation has righteousness been imagined as something other than kindness, and what might shift if these two were not allowed to come apart?Significant Cautions* Some traditions (most Protestant ones) do not consider Wisdom canonical. If your congregation's tradition uses Isaiah 44 instead, the next section of this guide covers it.* “The strong are merciful” can sometimes shade into a paternalism that treats mercy as something dispensed from on high. The text is reaching for something different — a mercy that flows from confidence, not condescension.Isaiah 44:6–8First Reading (Track Two, alternative option) — I Am the First and I Am the LastSummaryA short, sharp declaration of God's uniqueness. The Lord, the King of Israel, the Lord of hosts, declares: I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god. Who is like me? Let them speak. Who can declare the things to come as I have done? Do not fear, do not be afraid. You are my witnesses. Is there any god besides me? There is no other rock; I know not one.Key Ideas for Preaching* “Do not fear, do not be afraid.” That phrase, echoing several Sundays back in Matthew 10, anchors this short text. The reason not to fear is the same: there is no rival power. What does it look like for your people to hear that the deepest threats they imagine have, in the end, no real competing authority?* “You are my witnesses.” That is a striking thing for God to say. It places God's people inside the testimony, not at the edge of it. Where in your congregation might the language of witness need to be recovered — not as performance, but as the kind of life that quietly testifies to what is true?Significant Cautions* “There is no other god” has sometimes been used in interreligious contexts in ways that flatten and demean other faiths. Isaiah is speaking inside a particular ancient struggle against idolatry, not handing the church a position paper on world religions.Psalm 86:11–17The Psalm (Track Two) — An Undivided HeartSummaryA continuation of the psalm we already heard a few weeks ago (Proper 7). The selected verses contain one of the most quoted lines from the psalms: teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart to revere your name. The psalmist gives thanks for God's steadfast love and deliverance, names the trouble he is in (the insolent and the ruthless are after his life), and pleads for help, for a sign of favor, for God's strength.Key Ideas for Preaching* “An undivided heart.” That is a request many of us would not dare to pray, because we know how divided our hearts are. The psalmist is honest about needing to be given a single-mindedness he does not yet have. Where in your congregation might the gift of an undivided heart be more needed than the discipline of trying to manufacture one?* The psalmist names that ruthless people are after his life — and then, in the same psalm, names God as merciful and gracious. Both things are true at the same time. The psalm does not pretend the threats are not real in order to praise God. How might your people learn to hold real danger and real praise in the same prayer?Significant Cautions* “Show me a sign of your favor, so that those who hate me may be put to shame” is honest prayer but easy to weaponize. Be careful preaching this verse in a way that gives moral cover to grudges your congregation is already nursing.Romans 8:12–25The Epistle — Children of God, Heirs with Christ, Creation GroaningSummaryPaul continues the unfolding of Romans 8. We are debtors not to the old way of living, he says, but to the Spirit. All who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God — not slaves anymore, but adopted, with the right to call out, in the most intimate language Paul can find, Abba! Father! If we are children, we are heirs, joint heirs with Christ, sharing in his suffering and in his glory. The passage then opens out into one of the most cosmic visions in the New Testament. The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed. The creation itself waits, with eager longing, for the revealing of the children of God. The creation has been subjected to futility — not by its own choice — in hope. It groans. We groan with it. We who have the first fruits of the Spirit groan inwardly as we wait for adoption and the redemption of our bodies. We were saved in hope, and hope that is seen is not hope. We wait, with patience, for what we do not yet see.Key Ideas for Preaching* Paul calls God by the name Jesus called him — Abba. That is the Aramaic word a child would have used, intimate, not formal. The Spirit makes us able to use that word too. What might it shift in your people's prayer life to hear that the language of intimacy with God is not reserved for spiritual experts?* Paul includes the whole creation in the work of redemption. The trees, the soil, the seas, the suffering creatures — they are not background scenery to the human drama. They are part of it. They groan; they wait. How might this widen your congregation's sense of what salvation includes?* “Hope that is seen is not hope.” Christian hope, by definition, is hope in something we cannot yet point to. We do not have it in hand; we wait for it. Where in your congregation has hope been collapsed into optimism, and how might Paul's patience steady it?* The passage holds together suffering and glory in a way that does not minimize either. Paul does not say the suffering is not real; he says it is not the final word. What does it look like for your congregation to grieve honestly and hope honestly in the same breath?Significant Cautions* “If we suffer with him” has sometimes been used to bless suffering that should be opposed. Paul is talking about the cost of belonging to Christ, not about staying in abusive relationships or harmful situations. Be careful here.* The adoption language has been used in ways that exclude or shame those for whom adoption is a complicated family experience. The word is theological here — about being made part of God's family by grace — but it lands on a particular set of human stories. Handle it with awareness.* “The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory” can be heard cruelly by someone in real, present suffering. Paul is not minimizing their pain. He is naming an even larger reality. Say so.* The cosmic creation imagery (the whole creation groaning) has sometimes been used to bless any sentimental view of nature. Paul has something more specific in mind — a creation broken, in hope of being remade. Do not flatten this into pantheism or sentimentality.Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43The Gospel — The Wheat and the WeedsSummaryJesus tells another parable. The kingdom of heaven, he says, is like someone who sowed good seed in his field. While everyone was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds in among the wheat, and went away. When the plants came up and bore grain, the weeds appeared as well. The servants come to the master, alarmed: did you not sow good seed? Where did these weeds come from? An enemy has done this, he answers. They offer to go and pull them up. The master refuses. No, he says — in pulling up the weeds, you would uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. At harvest time, the reapers will sort them out. The lectionary then jumps to Jesus' private interpretation with his disciples. The sower of the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world. The good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one; the enemy is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. The weeds will be gathered and burned. The righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let anyone with ears listen.Key Ideas for Preaching* The weed in this parable is almost certainly darnel — a real plant that looks identical to wheat in the early stages of growth. You cannot tell them apart until the grain heads form. The master's refusal to let the servants pull up the weeds is not a moral instruction about tolerance; it is a botanical fact. They literally cannot tell. How might your sermon take that fact seriously and let it reshape the whole feel of the parable?* The servants in the parable are confident. They are sure they know which plants are weeds. The master, gently, refuses their confidence. Where in your congregation has confidence about who is in and who is out crept in, and what would it look like to take the master's caution seriously?* Jesus tells the disciples that the field is the world — not the church. That is worth saying out loud. The parable is not giving the church permission to be lenient about who belongs inside its life. It is talking about the much larger field of the world, where good and evil grow together, and where we are not the reapers. What does it look like for your congregation to know the difference between the church's discernment and the final judgment of the world?* The history of Christian attempts to pull up the weeds in advance is, frankly, awful. The church has identified the wrong people as weeds in every generation. Where in your congregation's past, or in your congregation's present, has someone been pulled up who was, in fact, wheat? How might honest naming help your people walk more humbly into the future?* The parable is not a call to moral passivity. The wheat still has to be tended. Injustice still has to be opposed. What the parable forbids is the human attempt to do the final sorting now. How might your sermon hold together active love for what is good and patient restraint from premature judgment?Significant Cautions* This parable has been used in some of the most damaging ways imaginable — to identify whole groups of people as “weeds”. Every Christian generation has done it, and every Christian generation has been at least partly wrong. Be especially careful with any application of this parable to actual people.* “The field is the world” means just that. The parable is not a license for the church to be lax about its own internal life. Paul and other New Testament writers have plenty to say about that. But the parable is talking about the larger field, where the final sort is not ours.* The interpretation in verses 36–43 is fierce — furnace, weeping, gnashing of teeth. Be careful with this language. It is in the text, but it is not the central point. The central point is the master's caution to the servants in the first half: let both grow together. The judgment language is the backdrop, not the foreground.* “Let anyone with ears listen” has been preached as a kind of warning. It is better heard as an invitation. The parable is doing slow, careful work; the listening it asks for is patient.* The parable can be misused in the opposite direction — as a license to ignore evil because the harvest is coming. It does not say that. It restrains us from premature sorting; it does not absolve us from active love and justice in the meantime.Thematic ConnectionsThe Gospel is the natural center for the day. The Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds is one of the most pastorally and politically important parables in Matthew, and the preacher who slows down with it will find that it has much to say to the moment in which most congregations are gathered — a moment in which the human impulse to sort people into wheat and weeds has rarely felt more intense.On Track One, Jacob's dream at Bethel pairs with the parable in a quiet but pointed way. Jacob is, by any honest measure, a weed in his family's field at this point in Genesis. He has cheated his brother and is running from the consequences. And God meets him with grace. The story is its own commentary on the parable: the people we would have written off as weeds turn out to be, in God's hands, wheat in the making. Psalm 139 widens the point: there is no place where God's knowing does not reach, no darkness God does not see clear through. The God who finds Jacob on the road is the same God who finds us in whatever country we have been hiding in.On Track Two, the connection runs through the question of who has the right to judge. Wisdom of Solomon names God as the sovereign whose strength expresses itself in patience. Isaiah names God as the one and only — with no real rivals to fear. Psalm 86 asks for the gift of an undivided heart. Together, these texts ease the listener into the Gospel's harder claim: the final word about wheat and weeds is not ours.Romans 8 sits inside the day as the cosmic frame. The whole creation groans. We groan with it. The hope we wait for is not yet visible. The patience Paul asks for is the same patience the master asks for in the parable — a willingness to let the field be the field, to let the harvest be the harvest, to trust that the One who set this all in motion has not lost track of any of it. The same Spirit who lets us cry Abba is the Spirit who teaches us to wait.For preachers continuing the series: the parables arc is now two weeks old. The Sower last week named God's lavish scattering. The Wheat and the Weeds this week names God's patient deferral of judgment. Together they form a particular picture of the kingdom — generous in its giving, patient in its sorting, and not finally in our hands. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lectionarypro.substack.com/subscribe

Today we explore the first article of the Apostles' Creed: I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth. Some are concerned that  the use of the word Father is less inclusive and depicts a stern, sterile relationship. The original word was Abba in Aramaic; which was papa or daddy - signifying deep intimacy and trust. Some also question why an almighty creator would allow the evils that we see in today's world. Another way to frame this question might be why do humans allow the evils to continue? Today's message is from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel comes from Luke, Chapter 12, Verses 22-31, and our scripture reading is Genesis 1, verses 24-27. Contemporary Lutheran Affirmation of Faith: We trust in God, the Creator of all that is, of galaxies and forests, oceans and deserts, creatures and every human being. God speaks life into existence, calls creation good, and remains faithful to the world God has made.We belive that the earth is no ours to possess, but a gift to recieve with gratitude, to share with justice and tend with humility. We trust in Jesus Christ, Godsl living Word among us, born into this world, sharing our joys and suffering. In his life, he proclaimed God's kingdom of mercy. In his death, he entered the depths of human pain. In his resurrection, he opened the way to new life for all creation. Through Christ, we are forgiven, freed from the need to justify ourselves, and called into lives of faith, hope and love.  We trust in the Holy Spirit, present and active in the church and in the world. Gathering people into communities of grace, awakening faith, renewing hears, and equipping us for service. The Spirit moves among all peoples, inspires care for our neighbors, and calls us to seek justice, make peace and protect the flourishing of creation. We trust that God has not abandoned the world, and is even now making all things new. Therefore we live in hope: for the healing of the earth, for reconciliation among people, for the renewal of the church, and for the resurrection life promised in Christ. To God- Creator, Son, and Holy Spirit, be glory now and forever. Amen.  

Stewart Copeland, legendary drummer of The Police, joins for an in-depth conversation about the band's creative tensions and why they work better apart than together. He shares stories from his home studio (which he calls the Sacred Grove) where he's jammed with everyone from Snoop Dogg to Neil Peart and Taylor Hawkins. Stewart offers surprising advice to drummers about playing quieter for better sound and career longevity, discusses his views on AI in music creation, and promotes his upcoming speaking tour 'Have I Said Too Much?'. After that, Glen Matlock, original bassist and songwriter for the Sex Pistols, opens up about his new documentary 'I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol,' which chronicles both the band's revolutionary impact and his personal journey. He reveals surprising influences on punk rock, including The Faces, Small Faces, and even ABBA's role in creating 'Pretty Vacant.' To wrap it up, John Corabi stops by to discuss his new solo album 'New Day' and the incredible lineup he's assembled for touring. He opens up about the realities of being a rock vocalist in his 60s and how he's adapted his approach to performing classic material. Corabi shares insights about touring with Tom Keifer, praising his friend's remarkable vocal recovery and dedication. The conversation touches on his memoir, his relationship with former Mötley Crüe bandmates, and his uncertain status with The Dead Daisies. Catch Eddie Trunk every M-F from 3:00-5:00pm ET on Trunk Nation on SiriusXM Faction Talk Channel 103.And don't forget to follow Eddie on X, Instagram & TikTok!Follow the link to get your free 3-month trial of SiriusXM: http://siriusxm.com/eddietrunk Find all episodes of Trunk Nation: https://siriusxm.com/trunknation Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.