Podcasts about advent year c

Two expectant women, one old and one young, both wondering why God would choose them, yet both filled with joy ... that's where we find ourselves on this last Sunday of Advent. Karin and Blake are always asking, “Where are we with Jesus this week?” Well, technically, he's there too! Listen in to experience the joy that Mary and Elizabeth share as they come together in support of one another away from all the chaos and watching eyes. How could two women in such unexpected circumstances possibly feel so blessed? Perhaps you'll come away with a few ideas for feeling blessed and blessing others yourself. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

Homily for the 4th Sunday of Advent, year C - Dec 22, 2024 Readings for the day: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122224.cfm

Read Online“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” Luke 1:42–43Elizabeth expressed a beautiful humility in this statement. The Blessed Virgin Mary had just made a long journey to be with Elizabeth in her final months of pregnancy. As soon as our Blessed Mother greeted Elizabeth, Elizabeth's child, Saint John the Baptist, leaped for joy in her womb. Elizabeth acknowledges this and then humbly expresses the fact that she is exceptionally blessed to have Mary, the mother of her Lord, come to visit her.There are many things worth pondering in this visitation of our Blessed Mother. But try to focus upon the humble wonder and awe expressed by Elizabeth. “And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” Elizabeth was clearly grateful for Mary's visit. But it appears that her reaction went even beyond gratitude. She was given the gift of wonder and awe. She clearly knew she was incredibly blessed by the fact that both the Mother of God and her Lord Himself were now in her presence in her home.This gift of wonder and awe that Elizabeth experienced is one of the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit. It's a gift that enters a humble heart, enabling it to first see its unworthiness of a special grace given. But then this humble soul receives the special grace and responds with an overwhelming amazement. Thus, not only is gratitude present, but there is also this holy amazement that results in praise of God.In our own lives, there are so many incredible graces we have received from God. But too often we fail to see them for what they are. We fail to see the incredible graces God has given us and, thus, fail to experience the amazement that should result from God's gifts. As you look at your own life, what graces has God given to you? Do you see them? Are you grateful for them? And, if so, are you able to go even beyond gratitude so as to experience a holy wonder and awe of God's goodness and blessings in your life? Though it might be difficult to arrive at this level of amazement, it is a true gift that we must all strive to obtain and experience every day of our lives.Reflect, today, upon this holy gift of the Holy Spirit that Elizabeth experienced. Place yourself at the scene. Try to see the experience within her heart. Try to feel how she felt. Try to sense the praise that resulted. And try to open yourself more fully to receive this same gift of the Holy Spirit in your life. The Lord comes to you constantly by grace, especially every time you receive Him in Holy Communion. For that reason, we must all strive to live a holy wonder and awe every day of our lives. My most glorious Lord, You grace me beyond imagination. Too often, I fail to experience the gratitude and the wonder and awe that should result. Please help me to first see the countless blessings of Your grace and presence in my life. And as I see them, please fill me with the Holy Spirit so that I, too, may continually sing Your worthy praises. Jesus, I trust in You.  Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: The Visitation, via flickr

Christmas is four days away. Today's reflection reminds us that the Mystery of Incarnation and the Paschal Mystery are the two sides of the same coin. One is incomplete without the other. Enjoy and God bless!

Homily for the 4th Sunday of Advent (Year C) by Fr Mike Delaney, Parish Priest of the Kingston Channel Catholic Parish in the Archdiocese of Hobart, Australia

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Second Sunday of Advent, Year C.Mass Readings:Baruch 5;1-9Psalm 126Philippians 1;4-6, 8-11Luke 3;1-6"A Walk in The Word" podcast is a weekly bible study and reflection on the Sunday Mass readings led by International Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina. PODCAST HOMEPAGE: https://awalkintheword.buzzsprout.comYOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/hectormolinacatholicevangelistSupport: Are you enjoying these videos? Become a Patron and partner with me in spreading the Good News! www.patreon.com/hectormolina/You can also show your support for the podcast by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hectormo...#SecondSundayofAdvent #2ndSundayofAdvent #johnthebaptist #stjohnthebaptist #newexodus #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary #catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #hectormolina #awalkintheword #catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Third Sunday of Advent, Year C.Mass Readings:Zephaniah 3;14-18aIsaiah 12;2-3b, 5-6Philippians 4;4-7Luke 3;10-18"A Walk in The Word" podcast is a weekly bible study and reflection on the Sunday Mass readings led by International Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina.PODCAST HOMEPAGE: https://awalkintheword.buzzsprout.comYOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/hectormolinacatholicevangelistSupport: Are you enjoying these videos? Become a Patron and partner with me in spreading the Good News! www.patreon.com/hectormolina/You can also show your support for the podcast by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hectormo...#ThirdSundayofAdvent #3rdSundayofAdvent #GaudeteSunday #rejoicealways #johnthebaptist #stjohnthebaptist #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary #catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #hectormolina #awalkintheword #catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year C.Mass Readings:Micah 5;2-4Pslam 80;1-2b, 14, 17b, 18Luke 1;39-45"A Walk in The Word" podcast is a weekly bible study and reflection on the Sunday Mass readings led by International Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina.PODCAST HOMEPAGE: https://awalkintheword.buzzsprout.comYOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/hectormolinacatholicevangelistSupport: Are you enjoying these videos? Become a Patron and partner with me in spreading the Good News! www.patreon.com/hectormolina/You can also show your support for the podcast by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hectormo...#FourthSundayofAdvent #4thSundayofAdvent #rachelandmary #thesorrowfulmothers #typology #mariantypology#sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary #catholic #sundaygospel #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #hectormolina #awalkintheword #catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

Join Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina as he explores the Mass Readings for the First Sunday of Advent, Year C.Mass Readings:Jeremiah 33;14-16Psalm 251 Thessalonians 3;12-4:2Luke 21;25-28, 34-36"A Walk in The Word" podcast is a weekly bible study and reflection on the Sunday Mass readings led by International Catholic evangelist and bible teacher, Hector Molina. PODCAST HOMEPAGE: https://awalkintheword.buzzsprout.comYOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/hectormolinacatholicevangelistSupport: Are you enjoying these videos? Become a Patron and partner with me in spreading the Good News! www.patreon.com/hectormolina/You can also show your support for the podcast by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hectormo...#FirstSundayofAdvent #1stSundayofAdvent #watchandpray #sundaymassreadings #catholiclectionary #catholic #sundaygospel  #sundaygospelreflection #catholicbiblestudy #hectormolina #awalkintheword  #catholicpodcast #bibleinayear #wordonfire #sundayhomily #hectormolina

As we've declared on the podcast before, Mary knows. But how is she feeling? What is going through her mind? What does she think about herself when she hears the wonderful news of giving birth to Jesus Christ, the son of God? The text tells us little about Mary's internal dialogue, which is common in ancient texts. What is Elizabeth's role? And what might it tell us about community? Jonathan and Seth discuss Mary, a little about her song, and what Mary might teach us as we, too, wait expectantly for the coming of Christ into the world. Be on the lookout for a special Christmas episode. We hope you'll listen to that one, too. And, as always, thanks for listening! Please consider leaving us a review; it helps others find us.

Fourth Sunday of Advent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7, Hebrews 10:5-10, Luke 1:39-45, (46-55)

Unlike Micah, who responded politely when asked what God required of those who would follow, John the Baptist didn't mince words or waste time worrying about people's feelings.  He simply laid it on the line ... for everyone. Repent and change your ways. Quit putting yourself first. Take what's yours, only what's yours, and be happy. As we come close to Christmas and the arrival of the Christchild, join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for a closer look at John's instructions for being ready to be drawn toward the Divine Presence.  Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

Zephaniah 3:14-20Philippians 4:4-7Luke 3:7-18Canticle 9The CollectStir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.Old TestamentZephaniah 3:14-20Sing aloud, O daughter Zion;shout, O Israel!Rejoice and exult with all your heart,O daughter Jerusalem!The Lord has taken away the judgments against you,he has turned away your enemies.The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst;you shall fear disaster no more.On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem:Do not fear, O Zion;do not let your hands grow weak.The Lord, your God, is in your midst,a warrior who gives victory;he will rejoice over you with gladness,he will renew you in his love;he will exult over you with loud singingas on a day of festival.I will remove disaster from you,so that you will not bear reproach for it.I will deal with all your oppressorsat that time.And I will save the lameand gather the outcast,and I will change their shame into praiseand renown in all the earth.At that time I will bring you home,at the time when I gather you;for I will make you renowned and praisedamong all the peoples of the earth,when I restore your fortunesbefore your eyes, says the Lord.The ResponseCanticle 9 Page 86, BCPThe First Song of Isaiah Ecce DeusIsaiah 12:2-6Surely, it is God who saves me; *I will trust in him and not be afraid.For the Lord is my stronghold and my sure defense, *and he will be my Savior.Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing *from the springs of salvation.And on that day you shall say, *Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his Name;Make his deeds known among the peoples; *see that they remember that his Name is exalted.Sing the praises of the Lord, for he has done great things, *and this is known in all the world.Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy, *for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.The New TestamentPhilippians 4:4-7Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.The GospelLuke 3:7-18John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire."And the crowds asked him, "What then should we do?" In reply he said to them, "Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise." Even...

Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Advent, year C - Dec 15, 2024 Readings for the day: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121524.cfm

Gaudette Sunday homily given at Saint Aloysius Parish, Cleveland, Ohio.

This is a sermon delivered by The Rev. Trey Kennedy at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Drexel Hill, PA. For a permanent link to this and other sermons, please go to therevtreysthoughts.blogspot.com

Read OnlineThe crowds asked John the Baptist, “What should we do?” Luke 3:10Among those within the crowds who were asking Saint John the Baptist this question were tax collectors, soldiers and ordinary people. John gave an answer to them all, first telling them to turn away from the sins that they struggled with the most. Sin takes on many forms and often is closely associated with our daily duties in life. Some sins are sins of commission, meaning sins we commit by an intentional act. Some sins are those of omission, meaning a lack of certain virtues or a failure to do what we ought to do.After addressing the particular sins that those in the crowds were struggling with, John then turns their attention to Christ. He states to them that “​​one mightier than I is coming” and that “He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” In other words, John was giving the people a twofold command. First, work to overcome sin. And second, turn your eyes to Him Who is coming to you. Repenting from sin is not enough. Once we repent, we must then fill the void within our souls with the presence of Christ.Advent, just like Lent, is an important time within our liturgical year to heed these messages. Though it's true that we must work to overcome sin and turn to Christ every day of the year, God knows we need a special time each year when we give concerted effort to these spiritual endeavors. So before Advent passes you by, heed the words of the Baptist and take some time to examine your conscience thoroughly. Perhaps use a detailed list of the Ten Commandments or the Seven Capital Sins. Once you do that, seek out an opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Doing so is essential to a fruitful Advent season.Once you thoroughly repent of the sins you struggle with the most right now, turn to the Savior of the World with special attentiveness to the miracle of the Incarnation this Advent. Spend time adoring the God Who came to us in the form of a little child. Meditate on this Gift. Gaze at a nativity scene prayerfully. Read the Scripture passages about the birth of Christ. Close your eyes and imagine yourself there at His birth.Reflect, today, upon this twofold exhortation from John and apply it to your Advent preparations. Cleanse your soul in a special way from all sin this Advent. Then prayerfully ponder and meditate upon the reality we are preparing to celebrate. As John says, allow the Christ Child to truly “baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” through your deepening devotion and prayer this Advent. My dear Jesus, please help me to see my sins as You see them. Help me to be attentive to every sinful action I commit and even those smaller sins of omission. As I ponder my sin, please draw me to Your mercy and grace so that I can then open the eyes of my soul more deeply to see You and to adore You more completely this Advent. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured Image above: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand!", via flickr

"Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." Mary's tender and trusting faith inspires us as we journey from Advent to Christmas.

1 advent year c 2024 - Waiting by T. Birch Rambo

2 Advent year C 2024 - Prophets of the Most High by T. Birch Rambo

The "pink" Sunday of Advent has readings that are thematically different than the rest of the season. The Old Testament, response, and New Testament readings are joyful. In his letter to the Phillippians, Paul uses "rejoice" almost as a refrain. The Gospel reading, however, fits the theme of the rest of Advent: preparing for Jesus' coming. How do these readings connect? What does preparing for Jesus' coming look like when it is peppered with praise? What do we have to rejoice about? How can Advent be a balm in a turbulent season? Jonathan and Seth have a wide-ranging discussion this week about Advent that they hope gets you thinking too. We're glad you're with us. Christmas is obviously coming (That's what Advent prepares us for, after all!). We hope you're experiencing some rest right now, find time to rejoice, and that this season is also a meaningful preparation time for Christmas and the New Year.

Third Sunday of Advent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6, Philippians 4:4-7, Luke 3:7-18

Homily for the 2nd Sunday of Advent, year C - Dec 8, 2024 Readings for the day: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120824.cfm

Join Professors Karoline Lewis and Matt Skinner for the Fourth Sunday of Advent (Year C) on December 22, 2024.  Join us for an engaging exploration of these Advent readings as we reflect on God's faithfulness and the radical message of Mary's song. Highlights of the discussion include: * The prophetic power of Mary's Magnificat. * The intimate connection between Mary and Elizabeth. * How the themes of Micah and Hebrews shape our understanding of God's promises. * Recognizing God's presence in unexpected places as we await the fulfillment of hope in Jesus' birth. *  *  *   Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! https://www.workingpreacher.org/ https://www.facebook.com/workingpreacher https://www.instagram.com/workingpreacher/ Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/hpdzimdRpTE.

Lions and tigers and bears, Oh My! Wait. Scratch that.  How about, “sacredness, energy, and divine presence?” Maybe the wilderness isn't so bad after all! Grab a cup of your favorite warm beverage and join host Karin Peter and Blake Smith for a look into how “the voice crying out in the wilderness,” wasn't running from large scary animals, but rather towards the hope that was to come. In the words of Rod Stewart, “People get ready.” That is what Advent is all about anyway, isn't it? Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

“Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low… and all flesh shall see the salvation of God” (Luke 3).   Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, CA 2E75                                      2 Advent (Year C) 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Eucharist                           Sunday 8 December 2024                                                                   Baruch 5:1-9 Canticle 16 (Luke 1:68-79) Philippians 1: 3-11 Luke 3:1-6

Jesus enters into a disordered world and brings mercy. Enjoy this week's homily.

Prepare the way of the Lord homily given at Saint Aloysius's parish, Cleveland, Ohio.

This is a sermon delivered by The Rev. Trey Kennedy at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Drexel Hill, PA. For a permanent link to this and other sermons, please go to therevtreysthoughts.blogspot.com

Read Online“Every valley shall be filled and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” Luke 3:5–6These, the words of the prophet Isaiah, were spoken about the mission of Saint John the Baptist. John was to “Prepare the way of the Lord” and to “make straight his paths.” In prophesying this, Isaiah goes on to give this very descriptive image of John's ministry. It would be one that levels mountains and valleys, straightens every winding road, and smooths out the rough terrain. In other words, John came to remove every obstacle to God, making it easy to encounter the Messiah.How does John complete this mission? By calling the people of that time to the dry and empty desert where all the false allurements cease to exist. This is done by detachment from the many sins and temptations they faced. Their repentance was an act by which the people humbled themselves before God, admitted their sins and acknowledged their need for a Savior. This humble admission, coupled with the commitment to change their ways, prepared heart after heart for the grace and mercy that came through Christ the Lord.Today, there are countless obstacles to grace that so many people encounter. Some have been drawn into the satisfactions of earthly riches and material comforts and find little need for God. Others have very little that this world can offer but are consumed with a desire for money and the passing comforts it promises. And still others are drawn into many other forms of sins and false satisfactions. But there are some who are like a dry and deserted desert, just waiting to soak up the gentle rain of God's grace. These are those who have sought to detach themselves from the false promises of this world and remain “empty” and “dry” so as to be prepared for the abundance of grace when it comes. These holy souls have heeded the call to repentance and have humbly acknowledged their need for the Savior.Reflect, today, upon whether or not your soul is like that dry and barren desert, detached from all the false and passing satisfactions of this world, and prepared to soak up the mercy and grace of God alone. Repentance brings forth detachment, and detachment prepares the soul for God. When one is truly detached and free from the many obstacles to God, then the road from God to your soul will be straight and easily traveled. Reflect upon your soul today and where you see unhealthy attachments. Repent with all your heart so that you are among those most fully ready for an abundance of the grace and mercy of God.Lord, I turn to You in my need and repent of the many lies and false promises of satisfaction in this world. Please free me from all that is not of You so that my soul will be more fully prepared to soak You and Your mercy up like a gentle rain upon a dry and barren desert. I open myself to You, my Lord. Come fill and satiate my soul. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above:  "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand!", via flickr

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I say again: Rejoice!" In our Christian joy, we help prepare for the coming of Christ into the world.

Advent and Lent have many similarities. Both are seasons of expectation and anticipation, balancing despair with hope. In some churches that use paraments (the ornamental hangings and the funky church attire), purple symbolizes both Lent and Advent. Each season is also characterized by preparation and refining. What does that look like in the context of Advent? Unlike last week's episode, Jonathan and Seth talk a little about the election and how living in a post-election might look different for them. They challenge each other to be as specific as possible and hope it also challenges you to ask how you might have an Advent state of mind each day. We're glad you're with us during this expectant season. Are you doing anything special for Advent? Do you have a cool Advent calendar? Did you watch Josh Allen run, throw, and catch for a touchdown on Sunday? If so, we'd love to hear about it!

Jeremiah 33:14-161 Thessalonians 3:9-13Luke 21:25-36Psalm 25:1-9The CollectAlmighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.Old TestamentJeremiah 33:14-16The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: "The Lord is our righteousness."The PsalmPsalm 25:1-9Ad te, Domine, levavi1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul;my God, I put my trust in you; *let me not be humiliated,nor let my enemies triumph over me.2 Let none who look to you be put to shame; *let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes.3 Show me your ways, O Lord, *and teach me your paths.4 Lead me in your truth and teach me, *for you are the God of my salvation;in you have I trusted all the day long.5 Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, *for they are from everlasting.6 Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; *remember me according to your loveand for the sake of your goodness, O Lord.7 Gracious and upright is the Lord; *therefore he teaches sinners in his way.8 He guides the humble in doing right *and teaches his way to the lowly.9 All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness *to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.The New Testament1 Thessalonians 3:9-13How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.The GospelLuke 21:25-36Jesus said, "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."Then he told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

"The Lord will make the glory of his voice heard in the joy of your heart." This Advent, let us look for ways to brighten our hearts with the light of Christ.

Join Professors Karoline Lewis, Joy J. Moore, and Matt Skinner for the Third Sunday of Advent (Year C) on December 15, 2024.  In this episode, we explore John the Baptist's powerful messages, the transformative call to repentance, and the invitation to bear the fruits of righteousness.

In this homily, Fr. Michael reflects on the true meaning of Advent as a time of preparation for Christ's Second Coming. He challenges us to engage in the spiritual battle against pride and to cultivate real virtue, especially the virtues of hope and courage. Hope sustains us in trusting God's providence and victory, while courage empowers us to confront the darkness and doubts within our hearts. This homily invites us to embrace Advent as a season of spiritual readiness, preparing to encounter the victorious Christ.

Second Sunday of Advent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79, Philippians 1:3-11, Luke 3:1-6 

It's a new liturgical year, and we're still journeying with Jesus.  As we enter the Advent season, we are reminded of God's gracious welcome and hospitality ... full of justice and mercy. From interpersonal division to wars between nations, our world is full of chaos, there are those who would like us to think that the end of the world is coming and that THIS is “the generation that will not pass.” But we know that God is with us, and because we have experienced God's gracious hospitality in our lives, we are called the ones to speak hope and trust in God's promises... to share God's hospitality with all. Now is not the time to give in. Now is the time to light our “candles” and let them shine for all the world to see. Download TranscriptThanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

A homily for the 1st Sunday of Advent Year C 12/1/2024

Are you preparing for an event or for a person? Enjoy this week's homily.

Homily for the 1st Sunday of Advent, year C - Dec 1, 2024 Readings for the day: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120124.cfm

This is a sermon delivered by The Rev. Trey Kennedy at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Drexel Hill, PA. For a permanent link to this and other sermons, please go to therevtreysthoughts.blogspot.com

Read Online“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.  For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34–36“That day.” These two words are spoken twice in the passage above. To which day is our Lord referring? Clearly, He is referring primarily to the day of our final judgment and is warning us to make sure we are prepared for it in case it were to come at an unexpected moment. So how do we prepare?Animals have the natural gift of instinct. They know how to survive, how to reproduce, how to gather food and how to avoid danger. They know this because God has implanted this knowledge within them. By this natural gift of instinct, they know what to do and what to avoid.We, as humans, also have basic natural instincts. But our natural instincts are only sufficient to help us accomplish that which the animals accomplish. Therefore, if we are to gain an even greater knowledge and are to know how to properly prepare ourselves spiritually for the sudden and unexpected coming of Christ, then we need more.The way we most properly prepare is through a special grace by which God reveals Himself and His will to our human reason. When that happens, we will know the best way to be fully prepared for “that day” the moment it comes. Perhaps one of the best ways to describe this ability is by describing it as a “supernatural instinct.” When our natural instincts become open to grace, and when the information on which we base our daily decisions in life comes to us by an ongoing and personal revelation from God through the infused gift of faith, then we will find that we simply know what to do and what to avoid. By analogy, just as a bird knows to fly south for the winter or a salmon knows to return to its place of birth to lay its eggs, so we will “know” within our spirit how to best serve the will of God and, thus, be most fully prepared for His imminent return. “Supernatural instinct” is nothing other than us allowing the grace of God to enter our lives so as to take control of everything we do and to lead us into the fulfillment of the perfect and glorious will of God. When that happens, we can be certain that we are perpetually prepared for all that comes and will never be caught by surprise like a trap.Reflect, today, upon whether you are daily led by the knowledge of God's will alive within you as a supernatural instinct. If this language seems foreign to you, then perhaps it is a time to ponder the question “Why?” Why aren't you led by God's grace through an ongoing gift of supernatural knowledge of His will? And if this language does resonate within you, then spend time pondering this gift and being grateful for the way that God has truly taken over your day-to-day life. My revealing Lord, I pray that I will always know Your will and be led only by Your gentle but unmistakable promptings of grace. Please lead me, dear Lord, so that I will be perpetually prepared for Your glorious and final coming the moment it arrives.  Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured images above: The Agony in the Garden By Andrea Mantegna, via Wikimedia Commons

"Show us, Lord, your love, and grant us your salvation." Advent is our season of hope and quiet joy as we await the coming of Christ.

Although it's the Church's New Year, the lectionary texts focus on Jesus' return at "the end time." They're about Jesus' expected coming and what it looks like to be ready. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul is praying for his letter's recipients. In Luke, Jesus talks about reading the signs of his return. What would it look like to pray for others as Paul does? And how could thinking about the end times help us to pray appropriately for others? Jonathan and Seth discuss these questions and how Martin Luther and Charles Wesley answered questions about their end-time actions in this New Year Episode. We're glad you're with us. Advent is full of an expectant joy that we hope seeps into your life; it is already starting to do its work on me (Seth, here). We'd love to hear about meaningful Advent practices or your thoughts about the election, which we frankly avoided in this episode, at noexpertsallowed@gmail.com.

First Sunday of Advent (Year C, 2024-2025)Scripture Readings: Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Luke 21:25-36 

Join Profs. Karoline Lewis, Joy J. Moore, and Matt Skinner for a conversation on the Revised Common Lectionary texts for the Second Sunday of Advent on December 8, 2024.   Get inspired for the second Sunday of Advent with this episode of Sermon Brainwave! The hosts dive into the lectionary readings, unpacking the role of John the Baptist, the transformative power of repentance, and the prophetic voices of Zechariah and Malachi. Explore themes of salvation, God's active presence, and the call to embody love this Advent season. Perfect for preachers, teachers, and anyone seeking deeper insights into the Advent journey. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/eR8fXu1W-Sc.

The Word On The Word - First Sunday Of Advent, Year C Luke 21:27 "And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory..." Melissa and Veronica are breaking down the word on The Word of God and helping you prepare for one of the readings for the First Sunday of Advent! For Sunday's Mass Readings: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2021-11-28

The Word On The Word - Fourth Sunday Of Advent, Year C Luke 1:41 “And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit…” Melissa and Veronica are talking about the Visitation this week as they dive into the Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent. For Sunday's Mass Readings: ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings/2021-12-19

Kick off the new lectionary year with Profs. Karoline Lewis, Joy J. Moore, and Matt Skinner. Tune in for a conversation on the Revised Common Lectionary texts for the First Sunday of Advent (Year C) on December 1, 2024.  This week, our hosts emphasize the urgency of recognizing God's presence, the call to justice and righteousness, and the communal nature of faith. They also reflect on the role of holiness in the Christian journey, offering insights to inspire preachers and congregations alike. ✨ Start your Advent journey with this thoughtful discussion from Sermon Brainwave! Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/WTTyuEZkNhA.