Podcasts about Advent

Was Jesus really born miraculously to a virgin? Today, R.C. Sproul explains that the virgin birth of Christ is far from a matter of debate or personal interpretation—it's an essential truth of Scripture and the Christian faith. Request R.C. Sproul's devotional book The Advent of Glory, plus lifetime digital access to his teaching series Coming of the Messiah, with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4514/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Renewing Your Mind has a YouTube channel. Subscribe now and receive each day's episode: https://www.youtube.com/@rymradio   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Twenty-two days ago, a mysterious advent calendar arrived on Officer Matthew Klein's doorstep — no sender, no explanation, just twenty-four doors and a carved bearded face with hollow eyes. Since then, Marshport has become a graveyard. The entity behind it has a name now: Zurvan, an ancient demon whose mid-winter worship culminates on December 24th — the same demon that ten-year-old Matthew and his seven-year-old brother Steven accidentally summoned through a spirit board on Christmas Eve, 1995, the night their house burned to the ground. Zurvan has possessed Matthew's best friend, his own son, and a detective whose head he twisted completely around. On December 22nd, he proved the Bible verse about Legion true — the decomposing corpse of Wilbur Ward rose from the basement, levitated through the hallway, and snapped Pastor Hart's neck like kindling. Matthew's world went dark. The demon's final words echoed into oblivion: "Time's up." Two doors remain. Two days until Zurvan's celebration officially arrives.Get the print version of the novel: https://weirddarkness.com/AdventOfEvil#WeirdDarkness #ChristmasHorror #HolidayHorror #SupernaturalThriller #HauntedCalendar #DarkChristmas #HorrorStory #DemonicEvil #CreepyTales #YuletideTerror

We will need the joy of the Lord and the strength that comes with it to complete our God-assignments. In this sermon, Pastor Allen Jackson discusses joy, the theme for the third week of Advent. Joy is a spiritual fuel that enables us to endure and overcome, and Pastor Allen shares examples from Nehemiah and Daniel, who flourished in hardship, to model how we, too, can rely on God to supply us with the strength we need. Our world seems to be darker day by day, but this Christmas season, let's overcome evil with the joy that comes from celebrating the birth of our Savior and King. 

Merry Christmas! Dave and Gomer have a short but special Christmas message about the incarnation of God. We hope and pray your Christmas season is filled with the joy and peace of Christ! We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

This week, Paul reflects on Isaiah 53 to show how the beauty of Christmas is found in the beautiful and costly “job description” of the spotless Lamb.Join us for a weekly narration of Paul Tripp's popular devotional. You can subscribe to our email list to receive this devotional straight to your inbox each week, or read online at PaulTripp.com/Wednesday or on Facebook, Instagram, and the Paul Tripp App.If you've been enjoying the Wednesday's Word podcast, please leave us a review! Each review helps us reach more people with the transforming power of Jesus Christ.Partner with Paul Tripp Ministries:PaulTripp.com/Give

An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart: Prepare your heart for Christ through Scripture, the saints, and the gentle practice of daily listening. Part Four: Welcoming Christ with a Heart Fully Awake DAY 25 – Adoration “O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker.” Psalm 95.6 RSV ... Read more The post Day 25 – Adoration – An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent by Dr. John Bergsma. Advent Weekday First Reading: Second Samuel 7: 1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 89: 2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29 Gospel: Luke 1: 67-79   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com Bible Across America is a new FREE Scripture study initiative that brings Catholics together to read and study God's Word from the heart of the Church. Join Dr. Shane Owens—Associate Professor of Theology at Franciscan University—together with Fr. Boniface Hicks, Alex Jones, Katie McGrady, and Heather Khym for our Advent Bible Across America study. Sign up to join the movement today at www.stpaulcenter.com/america

A new MP3 sermon from Alpha and Omega Ministries is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Advent Traditions, Anti-Reformed Rants and Arguments Subtitle: The Dividing Line 2025 Speaker: Dr. James White Broadcaster: Alpha and Omega Ministries Event: Podcast Date: 12/23/2025 Length: 68 min.

On this special Christmas Eve episode of GPS: God. People. Stories., hear four testimonies that each carry a theme of the Advent season—hope, peace, joy, and love. From a young boy who found the hope of Jesus Christ after living on the streets of Uganda to a U.S. Army chaplain who experienced the ultimate peace that only comes from Christ. These stories will point you to the true reason we celebrate Christmas. Connect with us through email at gps@billygraham.org or on Facebook at Billy Graham Radio. If you'd like to know more about beginning a relationship with Jesus Christ, or deepening the faith you already have, visit FindPeacewithGod.net. If you'd like to pray with someone, call our Billy Graham 24/7 Prayer Line at 855-255-7729. 

This short guided Christian prayer will help you rest in the love of Christ that came down at Christmas—a love that reaches to the heavens and never lets go. Through Scripture and stillness, you’ll be reminded that God’s love is constant, tender, and near.Take a deep breath, and let His love surround you today. Helpful Links:Download your FREE Be Still Advent guide here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Find out more information and purchase the Guided Retreat at https://www.jodieniznik.com/guided-retreat Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Fathers do not flatter us here. They speak with a severity that at first wounds, then heals, if we allow it. They do not treat resentment as a minor flaw of temperament or a passing emotional reaction. They name it for what it is: a poison that slowly erodes the soul's capacity to remember God. Abba Makarios goes straight to the heart of the matter. To remember wrongs is not simply to remember events. It is to allow those events to take up residence within us, to become a lens through which everything is filtered. The tragedy is not primarily that we remain hurt. It is that the remembrance of God grows faint. The mind cannot hold both rancor and divine remembrance at the same time. One displaces the other. When resentment is cherished, prayer becomes difficult, then hollow, then distorted. The heart turns inward and begins to feed on its own injuries. The Fathers are unsparing here because they know how subtle rancor is. Other sins shock us into repentance. A lie, a fall, a moment of weakness often leaves the soul groaning almost immediately. But rancor settles in quietly. It eats and sleeps with us. It walks beside us like a companion we no longer question. Abba Isaiah and the Elder of the Cells both know this danger. Resentment does not merely coexist with spiritual life; it corrodes it from within, like rust consuming iron. The soul grows hard while imagining itself justified. And yet, alongside this severity, there is a startling tenderness. The Fathers do not say that healing comes through argument, vindication, or emotional catharsis. They prescribe something far more humbling and far more powerful: prayer for the one who has wounded us. Not a feeling of goodwill, not an internal resolution, but the concrete act of standing before God and interceding. Again and again the teaching is the same. Pray for him. Pray for her. Force yourself if you must. Obey even when the heart resists. The story of the brother who obeyed the Elder and prayed is quietly miraculous. Nothing dramatic happens. There is no confrontation, no apology demanded, no psychological analysis. Within a week, the anger is gone. Not suppressed. Extinguished. Grace works where the will yields, even reluctantly. The healing is not self-generated. It is given. The account of the two brothers under persecution reveals just how serious this is. One accepts reconciliation and is strengthened beyond his natural limits. The other clings to ill will and collapses under the same torments. The difference is not courage or endurance. It is love. Grace remains where love remains. When rancor is chosen, protection is withdrawn, not as punishment, but because the soul has closed itself to the very atmosphere in which grace operates. St. Maximos names the interior mechanism with precision. Distress clings to the memory of the one who harmed us. The image of the person becomes fused with pain. Prayer loosens that bond. When we pray, distress is separated from memory. Slowly, the person is no longer experienced as an enemy but as a suffering human being in need of mercy. Compassion does not excuse the wrong. It dissolves its power. What is perhaps most astonishing is the Fathers' confidence that kindness can heal not only the one who was wounded, but the one who wounds. Be kind to the person who harbors resentment against you, St. Maximos says, and you may deliver him from his passion. This is not naïveté. It is spiritual realism. Demons feed on mutual hostility. They lose their dwelling place when humility and gentleness appear. Foxes flee when the ground is no longer hospitable. St. Ephraim's image is unforgettable. Rancor drives knowledge from the heart the way smoke drives away bees. The heart was made to gather sweetness. When bitterness fills the air, nothing can remain. Tears, prayer, and the offering of oneself like incense clear the space again. This teaching is beautiful because it is honest. It does not minimize the pain of insult or harm. It is challenging because it leaves us without excuses. We cannot claim prayer while nursing grudges. We cannot claim suffering for Christ while secretly rejoicing at another's downfall. The path offered is narrow and costly, but it is also liberating. Resentment chains us to the past. Kindness loosens the chain. Prayer opens the hand. Grace does the rest. --- Text from chat during the group: 00:04:55 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 332 Section B Hypothesis XLII Volume II 00:11:28 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 332 Section B Hypothesis XLII Volume II 00:11:41 Janine: Yes, thank you Uncle Father! 00:11:57 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Reacted to "Yes, thank you Uncle..." with

On Sunday, Pete read the Angels' Song from Luke 2. The Angels' Song is one of hope realized.  The angels come to the lowly shepherds to announce the good news of Christ's birth. The Messiah is finally here, peace is available to all people. The angel chorus glorifies God for this great gift, and gives an important key for how this peace is actually obtained.  It is by our faith that God is pleased. When we entrust all of ourselves to Christ, we receive all that he is. This life of peace with God pours over into all of life, making the same gift that we received, available to all those we encounter. 

The culmination of the entire old covenant

The birth of Jesus Christ was not first declared by angels near Bethlehem or prophets in ancient Israel. Today, R.C. Sproul shows that the Savior's arrival was originally promised by God in the garden of Eden. Request R.C. Sproul's devotional book The Advent of Glory, plus lifetime digital access to his teaching series Coming of the Messiah, with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4514/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Learn more about becoming a Ligonier Ministry Partner: https://renewingyourmind.org/partner   Tune out the noise and tune in to RefNet, Ligonier's free 24/7 internet radio app. Download today and start listening: http://refnet.fm/app   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Christmas is the story of Love stepping toward us — yet for many of us, love is still the place where our deepest questions live. Why is it hard to give? Why is it even harder to receive? And what does Advent have to do with it?In this final Advent episode, Kaley Olson, Wendy Blight, and Ellen Adkins explore what Scripture reveals about the human heart — and why Jesus came to transform it from the inside out. You'll get a freeing look at why hostility toward God shows up in all of us, how the Holy Spirit enables a new kind of love we could never muster on our own, and a tender invitation to receive the love God is offering right now.With biblical teaching, honest reflection, and a prayer for anyone longing for a fresh start with God, this episode reminds us: His love isn't distant or conditional. It's personal, present … and it's meant for you.You'll learn:Why Scripture says our natural hearts resist God — and how Advent reveals Jesus' plan to transform them.What God's steadfast love looks like throughout the Bible and why we often struggle to receive it.How the Holy Spirit enables us to love God and others in ways we cannot on our own.A simple prayer and practical steps for beginning or renewing a relationship with Jesus this Christmas.Resources From This Episode:Join us for Advent in the First 5 app!Download the free app, and spend five minutes each day studying God's Word with women around the world.Go deeper with our brand-new Advent study guide, More Than a Manger.Experience the Christmas story with fresh eyes through rich biblical teaching and meaningful daily reflections.Help more women access biblical Truth this season.Your generosity fuels everything we do — from free podcasts to devotions to study resources.[Give to Proverbs 31 Ministries today.]Click here to download a transcript of this episodeWant More on This Topic? Listen to “The Secret to Really Loving Your Neighbor” with Jada Edwards on The Proverbs 31 Ministries Podcast.

The demon has a name — Zurvan. For thirty years it waited, dormant within the charred fragments of a spirit board, sealed inside an advent calendar built by hands it had already corrupted. Now Detective Davenport lies dead, his head twisted completely around as punishment for a door Matthew failed to open. Logan has been freed from the demon's grip, but Zurvan does not forgive, and it does not forget — Father Olsen warned that when a host is lost, it will seek another. Pastor Hart fled drenched in blood. Wilbur Ward's corpse was found in Mason's closet. Twenty-one doors have been opened, twenty-one horrors unleashed, and three days remain until Christmas Eve — the climax of Zurvan's ancient celebration, the anniversary of the night Matthew ran while his family burned. Logan is ten. Mason is seven. The parallel to Matthew and Steven is no coincidence. Matthew's allies are dead or scattered, both sons have been touched by an ancient evil, and the calendar continues its relentless countdown toward something even more terrible. Three doors remain. Will anyone be left alive to celebrate Christmas?Get the print version of the novel: https://weirddarkness.com/AdventOfEvil#WeirdDarkness #ChristmasHorror #HolidayHorror #SupernaturalThriller #HauntedCalendar #DarkChristmas #HorrorStory #DemonicEvil #CreepyTales #YuletideTerror

Join us in our Advent series to learn about the four themes of Advent. In this short episode, we explore the theme of love and the love of Christ that we experience in the Advent season and beyond. Subscribe to our Podcast Newsletter! Connect with us:  The Daily Grace Co. | Facebook | Instagram | Daily Grace Blog | 

God With Us: Celebrating the True Meaning of Christmas What changes when Jesus is not only your Savior—but your Lord? In this special Christmas week episode, Candace is joined by Ruth Chou Simons for a reflective reading of the Christmas story and a powerful meditation on the name Emmanuel—God with us. Together, they slow down the season to focus on what it truly means to welcome Christ not just into the manger, but onto the throne of our hearts. Ruth reads from Matthew 1 and from her Advent book Emmanuel, inviting listeners to consider the lordship of Jesus—His authority, His sovereignty, and His rightful place as King. While we often rejoice in Christ as Savior, this conversation challenges us to ask whether we also joyfully submit to Him as Lord. Through Scripture, prayer, and gentle reflection, Candace and Ruth remind us that surrender is not loss, but freedom—and that Christmas becomes richer when Jesus is more than a helper or friend, but the master of our lives. As the year comes to a close, this episode offers a quiet invitation to lay down what competes for our allegiance and rediscover the joy and peace that come when Christ reigns fully. Merry Christmas from Candace! Connect with Candace and Ruth Candace on Instagram @candacecbure  Follow the Podcast on Instagram @candacecameronburepodcast  Follow the Podcast on TikTok @ccbpodcast Follow Ruth on: Instagram: @ruthchousimons Website: https://ruthchousimons.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RuthChouSimons Sponsors For This Episode -WeShare ⁠weshare.org/candace⁠ -Angel Studios David  ⁠angel.com/candaceb⁠ -IFCJ  ⁠ifcj.org⁠ -GCU ⁠https://www.gcu.edu/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How did a podcast about the rosary beat out Joe Rogan? What actually is the rosary, and why can all Christians grow spiritually from praying with it? And what does it mean to be a great leader --whether in a church, marriage, or career?Today I'm sitting down with Fr Mary-Mary, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, as we dive into his vocation, the power and purpose of the rosary, handling abusive situations in relationships and church matters, as well as the need to celebrate victories. I think you'll enjoy this candid discussion. Rosary in a year Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rosary-in-a-year-with-fr-mark-mary-ames/id1776236328Rosary in a year Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Rx1puBjE0xZBiuy4BT4i7NEW: Check out our Merch store! https://shop.lilaroseshow.com/Join our new Patreon community! https://patreon.com/lilaroseshow - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-Brave+: Screen Time Made Good - Get a week free trial at https://braveplus.com/lila-We Heart Nutrition: https://www.weheartnutrition.com/ Get high quality vitamin supplements for 20% off using the code LILA. -EveryLife Women: https://www.everylife.com/lila Buy diapers and women's health products from an amazing company and use code LILA to get 10% off!-Seven Weeks Coffee: https://www.sevenweekscoffee.com Buy your pro-life coffee and Save up to 25% with promo code 'LILA' & get up to four FREE gifts this Christmas season: http://www.sevenweekscoffee.com00:00:00 - Intro00:02:57 - Mary showing up more in media00:05:29 - Respect Mary, but pray to Mary?00:18:15 - Fr Mark-Mary's Confession:00:23:59 - In-N-Out Vocation00:27:15 - Culture of Spiritual Direction00:32:32 - Does everyone need a spiritual director?00:40:21 - Why Fr Mark-Mary Likes online dating00:45:58 - Abuse in Marriage, Church, Relationships00:50:00 - Why more people need help00:55:44 - Spiritual Abuse / Marriage01:05:52 - Jocko and Leadership01:13:21 - Denying men from Franciscans01:18:34 - Men leaving Franciscan order01:22:10 - Annulments01:25:03 - Rosary in a Year01:27:59 - Battle of Lepanto01:30:27 - History of the rosary01:38:03 - 3 Goals With Rosary01:42:44 - Most surprising thing about RIAY Podcast01:44:37 - Difficulty from Success01:59:38 - Jesus receiving praise02:07:15 - Reflections on Mary and Advent:02:13:20 - Marriage, Partnership, Unity02:16:32 - Fr Mark-Mary Asks Lila Questions02:32:36 - How Lila Got into Pro-Life space

Our faith has shaped our culture for hundreds of years, but we're living through an immense decline of its influence in our nation. We've been so focused on eternity that we've neglected our role in the present age. In this sermon, Pastor Allen Jackson discusses preparation, a theme of the Advent season. He teaches about leaders like Abraham and Stephen to demonstrate that as God progresses His plans in the world, we have to be intentional in moving with Him. The Church has an assignment, and we need to develop the discernment to understand it and accomplish it!

Started off taking a LOT more time than I expected talking about ancient housing arrangements, what a "manger" might be, etc., and then moved on to a rant against Reformed theology and a common argument against God's decree that keeps coming up. Interrupted by a brief power outage at our office, but, I assume Rich will just cut that out. Enjoy!

As Christmas approaches, we are turning our focus to love this final week of Advent. In this episode, Karen and Emily unpack what it looks like to love like Jesus in everyday moments: choosing presence, serving quietly, pausing before reacting, and remembering that we love others because Christ first loved us. If the holidays have stretched your patience thin, we hope this conversation will help you refocus your heart on what truly matters! Episode Recap:We're talking about love this week (6:05)How do we respond to God's love practically? (7:55)Loving others looks like not being selfish (8:44)Take an interest in others this Christmas (12:34)Choose presence over perfection (15:54)Speak life with your words (16:31)Pause before you react (18:42)Enjoy simple moments (20:20)Serve quietly (21:15)Focus on gratitude (22:42)Scripture: Philippians 2:1-5 (NIV)“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”Discussion Questions: Why do you think loving others feels harder during the holidays?In what ways do you catch yourself trying to impress others rather than love them?Which part of Philippians 2:1–5 challenges you the most right now?What does “choosing presence over perfection” look like in your home?What is one thing you can do this week to respond with love instead of frustration?Resources:Please give today to help us reach more moms with Wire Talk in 2026!

Do you appreciate God's gift? How do we cultivate hopeful anticipation? Why can we trust God's gift? In today's episode, Tanya shares how Isaiah 50 encourages us to spend this Advent season waiting and watching for Jesus, the best gift. Read the Bible with us in 2026! This year, we're exploring the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: Isaiah 50

In this Advent episode of the Podcast for Cultural Reformation, Dr. Joe Boot and Dr. Michael Thiessen continue the Think Christianly series by asking a world-shaping question: Who is the child in the manger? Marking the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, they explore the Arian heresy, the church’s defense of Christ’s full divinity, and why the Nicene confession—“begotten, not made”—is essential to Christian worship, salvation, and culture. The discussion also shows how Arianism persists today wherever Jesus is reduced to a moral teacher rather than confessed as Lord. This episode calls Christians, especially during Advent, to stand with the historic church and boldly confess Christ as fully God and fully man—the Word made flesh, for the life of the world.

Luke 2:17-20

An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart: Prepare your heart for Christ through Scripture, the saints, and the gentle practice of daily listening. Part Four: Welcoming Christ with a Heart Fully Awake DAY 24 – Joy “Behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people; for to you ... Read more The post Day 24 – Joy – An Advent Journey for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent by Mr. Clement Harrold. Advent Weekday (O Emmanuel)/ John of Kanty, Priest First Reading: Malachi 3: 1-4, 4: 5-6 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 25: 4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14 Gospel: Luke 1: 57-66   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com Bible Across America is a new FREE Scripture study initiative that brings Catholics together to read and study God's Word from the heart of the Church. Join Dr. Shane Owens—Associate Professor of Theology at Franciscan University—together with Fr. Boniface Hicks, Alex Jones, Katie McGrady, and Heather Khym for our Advent Bible Across America study. Sign up to join the movement today at www.stpaulcenter.com/america

In this Advent episode of the Podcast for Cultural Reformation, Dr. Joe Boot and Dr. Michael Thiessen continue the Think Christianly series by asking a world-shaping question: Who is the child in the manger?

Fr. Patrick Setto - 4th Sunday of Advent 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

Let's face it — the chaos of travel, family gatherings, and exchanging presents can cause us to forget the miracle of Christmas. It's easy to become numb or distracted from the treasure of Jesus. Meditating on Scripture helps us reorient ourselves to the surprising arrival of Immanuel and the stunning reality of his everlasting kingdom.Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi unpackages the real gift of Christmas using the beautiful words of the prophet Isaiah. This reflection and prayer will stir your longing for more of Jesus and lead you into deeper worship of the One we call Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.Resources for this Episode:Surprising Joy: A Journey with Jesus for AdventDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

As Advent draws to a close, Saint Joseph invites us to make room—not just in our homes, but in our hearts.In Week Four of A Quiet Light, we reflect on Saint Joseph, Most Obedient, and pray with Matthew 1:18–24. This Gospel reminds us that obedience isn't about having all the answers—it's about trusting God enough to take the next step. Joseph heard the call, woke up, and did what the Lord asked. No hesitation. Just love in motion.The word we're sitting with this week? ✨ Trust. The kind that chooses surrender over control, even when the path ahead feels uncertain.Our invitation this week is simple: notice where God may be knocking. Where might He be asking you to make room for Him—again or for the first time? Ask for the grace to say yes, even if it feels uncomfortable or unfinished.

Transcription [Christie Kiley] Welcome to Bridgeway Christian Church’s Daily Advent Prayer. Today is Tuesday, December 23rd. My name is Christie Kiley and I’ve been a part of the Bridgeway community for 13 years. Today and every Tuesday during Advent, we will reflect on the symbols of this season and let them guide our prayers. Today […]

In this episode of the Radical Radiance podcast, host Rebecca George chats with Rachel Adams about biblical love during the Advent season. They explore the significance of preparing our hearts to celebrate Jesus's birth and the transformative power of his love in our lives. Rachel shares insights from her book, "Everyday Prayers for Love," and discusses the importance of sacrificial love, drawing from personal experiences and biblical teachings. The episode also touches on the challenges of embodying God's love in our daily interactions and the joy of living as children of God. Everyday Prayers for Love on Amazon⁠⁠You're Not Too Late Book⁠⁠Sponsors:Christian Standard Bible:The countdown to Christmas is on—and if you're still searching for gifts that carry lasting meaning, the Holman Gift Guide is full of ideas to inspire you. From heirloom-quality Bibles to beautifully designed devotionals and study tools, there's something for every believer in your life. Whether you're filling stockings, thanking a teacher, or surprising a loved one, Holman helps you share the beauty of God's Word this Christmas.⁠⁠⁠Explore the Holman Gift Guide⁠⁠⁠Live Oak Integrative Health:Hormones don't just affect fertility. They regulate your energy, sleep, mood, and focus — and subtle imbalances often go undetected on standard tests. Afternoon crashes, stubborn weight gain, irritability, poor sleep — these are measurable and reversible when addressed properly.That's what my friend Rebecca Belch at Live Oak Integrative Health does best. She offers remote consultations for women across the country, using data-driven testing and personalized wellness plans to uncover the why behind your symptoms. Visit⁠⁠⁠ liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radiance⁠⁠⁠—and remember, Radical Radiance listeners receive a discounted price on service packages.

In our final week of Advent, Richard and Daniel talk about the most important commandment: love.  TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction 4:45 Are there any statements or quotes you've particularly hung onto as a leader? 9:07 As a leader, what does it look like practically to be defined by love?  14:08 How do you not fall into the trap of people pleasing? 18:09 How is love connected to servant leadership? 21:05 How can loving people be powerful and good for business? 24:25 Why is it so hard for many leaders to love those they lead? 30:00 What is love, what isn't love, and how do we love our employers/employees? 35:08 Advent Ending and What's Next! DONATE: If you have enjoyed this podcast and want to support our ministry into the next 20 years, click here: https://bit.ly/382Exi3 RESOURCES: Mark your calendars for May 18-20, 2026 when Richard will be presenting Experiencing God – Part 2 at the Cove in Asheville, NC. More info to come. Join Blackaby Ministries' next Spiritual Leadership Coaching Workshop here: https://www.blackabycoaching.org/workshop CONNECT: X: @richardblackaby Facebook: https://bit.ly/2WvZPzw Read Richard's latest blog posts at www.richardblackaby.com

Gospel  Luke 1:57-66 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be? For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.” Reflection It's interesting that this transition involved two men, John the Baptist and Jesus the Messiah. And when you look at it carefully, you recognize that they were both so important in being able to create a new image of who God is. A God not distant, not in the temple only, but somehow breaking free of that structure and filling people's hearts with love, understanding, compassion. What an amazing transformation and how amazing John was in making sure this happened. He took us through the liminal space of transition that we still are somehow always engaged in, because each person has to go through it. That's the gift to this figure of John. Closing Prayer Father, always we find ourselves as we grow in consciousness, going through thresholds of new insights, new revelations. Bless us in this work of transformation. It is the call of the gospel, is each of us announcing the fullness of the Kingdom of God. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textAdvent has always been messy, whether we've realized it or not. Herod was on the throne. Life be lifing for Mary and Joseph.  Jesus was born into a world searching for hope, not unlike the moment we are in. That night was many things: exhausting, scary, surprising, painful, anything but silent. God met the world right where it was at then, and he can meet us in this moment, too. Join Markus Lloyd and Antwuan Malone for a conversation about Advent._____________________________Podcast Subscription LinksApple Podcast: coloredcommentary.com/appleSpotify: coloredcommentary.com/spotifyGoogle Podcasts: coloredcommentary.com/googleStitcher: coloredcommentary.com/stitcherIHeart Radio: coloredcommentary.com/iheartradio

join the conversation as Matt and John talk college football, Joseph and Mary, and the Immaculate reception. 

“In the beginning was the Word…” As our Advent journey reaches its climax, St. John pulls back the curtain to reveal the deepest mystery of Christmas: the Child of Bethlehem is the eternal Word through whom all things were made. In part 12, the final installment of our special series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we move from manger scenes to cosmic glory. The true Light that shines in the darkness has come into the world; He pitches His tent among us, full of grace and truth, that from His fullness we might receive grace upon grace.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study John 1:1–18.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit clc-in.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 66, 67, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: 1 Samuel 2:1-10, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 13, New Testament: Titus 2:1-10, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Second Canticle: 18, Gospel: Luke 1:26-38, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

This is the Tuesday evening liturgy during the season of Advent for the Compline podcast from the Center for Worship and the Arts at Samford University. For more about the Center for Worship and the Arts, as well as the resources we provide, visit us at https://www.samford.edu/worship-arts/.CREDITS:© 2020 Center for Worship and the Arts, Samford University.Engineered and produced by Wen Reagan for the Center for Worship and the Arts at Samford University.SPOKEN WORD:Wen Reagan, Stacy Love, Tracy Hanrahan, Meagan Kennedy, Pierce Moffett, Eden Walker.MUSIC:“Compline #6 - Advent” by Wen Reagan, © 2020 Sursum Corda Music (BMI).“How Long?” by Emily Hanrahan, © 2020 Emily Hanrahan.“The Son Forsook the Father's Home” by Samuel John Stone and Bruce Benedict, © 2010 Cardiphonia Music, CCLI # 6571188.TEXTS:The liturgical words for this podcast series include original phrasings, but were primarily curated and designed from several public domain sources, including “An Order for Compline” from the Anglican and Episcopal Book of Common Prayer and collects collected from Grace Cathedral and the University of Notre Dame.SOUNDS:The following sound effects were used in this podcast series and are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, PO Box 1866, Mountain View, CA 94042, USA."Door, Front, Opening, A.wav" by InspectorJ (www.jshaw.co.uk) of Freesound.org."Door, Front, Closing, A.wav" by InspectorJ (www.jshaw.co.uk) of Freesound.org.“06 – Crackling Candle.wav” by 14GPanskaLetko_Dominik of Freesound.org.“Lights a Candle Light with a Match” by straget of Freesound.org.The following sound effects were used in this podcast series and are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, PO Box 1866, Mountain View, CA 94042, USA.“Soft Shoes Walking on a Dirt Road” by Nagwense of Freesound.org.“Match Being Lit.wav” by Jeanet_Henning of

I love Christmas because it is one of the few remaining buttresses of Christian virtue left in America. Everyone in America understands the idea of lavish gifts, of the frailty of gifts alone to make the recipient happy, and how beautiful it is to give a good gift to someone you love. Today we remember how Christmas fulfills a promise of God, and how it is one of three Advents God has promised to bring us for His glory and our good.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4qtjVXX 

In this final episode of the Advent series, we sit with Mary at the edge of Christmas — waiting, holding, trusting — long before joy was fulfilled. Mary did not know how everything would unfold, but she carried hope inside uncertainty. Her story reminds grieving moms that hope does not begin when circumstances change. Hope begins in the waiting. In this episode, you'll hear: Why hope often arrives before comfort or clarity How Mary held sorrow and promise together without forcing joy What quiet, real hope looks like for grieving moms during Christmas Why you don't need to perform happiness to experience God's presence If Christmas feels tender this year, this episode offers a gentle place to rest. Teresa Davis Your Grief Mentor Grief Mentor Services ✨ GRIEF MENTOR SESSIONS If your heart feels overwhelmed or you're unsure how to navigate this season of grief, I would be honored to walk with you in a 1:1 Grief Mentor Session — a time of intentional listening, spiritual discernment, and compassionate mentorship to help you understand your grief and take steady steps forward. In each session, I listen carefully to your story and offer personalized guidance, along with simple printables and visual tools designed to meet you right where you are.

Chris Timson // In the crowded ordinary moments of life, Simeon shows us what true devotion looks like—holding onto God because we recognize that God is holding onto us. Through the Story, the Savior, and the Spirit, we're reminded that our devotion is not powered by effort, but by God's faithful presence at work in and through us.Visit Our Website summitchurchfl.org Follow Us on Social Media Facebook // InstagramWatch Online Services and More YouTube Subscribe for weekly sermon podcasts!

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 116, 117, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: 1 Samuel 2:1-10, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 10, New Testament: Titus 2:1-10, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Second Canticle: 15, Gospel: Luke 1:26-38, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, December 23rd, when the Church celebrates the Optional Memorial of St. John of Kanty (1390-1473), a priest distinguished for his piety and love of neighbor, we read in the Gospel about the birth of John the Baptist.The four evangelists tell the story of the Baptist, who, like Mary in the hymn of the Magnificat, proved that he not draw any attention to himself. Instead, he presented himself as a preparation, a forerunner, preparing the way of the Lord.He said, "Behold, the Lamb of God." Behold the one who has come to be sacrificed.And explained, “He must increase; I must decrease.”We are about to culminate the spiritual waiting of Advent, and the Messiah is about to manifest himself as Emmanuel, God with us.Ave MariaCome, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠December 23, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Tuesday December 23, 2025IV Week of Advent

This sacred story of giving birth to God can be understood on many levels. The most important for yogis is the level of nonduality, in which the nativity of the God-Self is understood as your own story of realization of your essential nature. This is accomplished through the symbolic replication of the acts of your purified soul, represented by the Virgin Mother (Shakti) bringing to life through divine love the Advent of the uncreated Supreme Self (as Presence in immediacy), and the ecstatic recognition of the Infinite Light pervading the entire cosmos and appearing as the Self of every being. May the grace that grants you the strength to surrender your will to God bring instant rapture and redemption.