Podcasts about Alphaeus

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him.Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him.Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

JUNE 22 | III The Advancement of the Kingdom | Mark 3:7-19Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard about all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the impure spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

As this part of Luke wraps up, we get the list of the twelve people Jesus handpicks to be His closest friends and followers—His apostles. Some of the names jump out right away: Peter, James, John. They're all over the gospel stories and go on to become major leaders in the early church. But then there are others—guys like James, son of Alphaeus—who we honestly don't hear anything else about, apart from their names. It's a mix of personalities, backgrounds, and even political views. You've got Matthew, a tax collector who worked for the Romans, and then Simon, a Zealot who probably couldn't stand Rome. That's a pretty wild combo to put on the same team. There's no one type of person Jesus chooses. No spiritual résumé required. Some of these guys had serious doubts, some made huge mistakes, and one of them even betrayed Him. Still, Jesus chose them—flawed, messy, regular people—to be part of His mission. And that's the reminder tucked into these few verses: Jesus can call anyone, and He'll use everyone who's willing to say yes to following Him.

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came tohim, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son ofAlphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, andLevi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many taxcollectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there weremany who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw himeating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why doeshe eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy whoneed a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, butsinners.”  Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some peoplecame and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of thePharisees are fasting, but yours are not?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast whilehe is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the timewill come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day theywill fast. “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment.Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burstthe skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pournew wine into new wineskins.” One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as hisdisciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Phariseessaid to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and hiscompanions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, heentered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful onlyfor priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man forthe Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him.While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?”Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.“No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins.”One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.”Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came tohim, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son ofAlphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, andLevi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many taxcollectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there weremany who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw himeating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why doeshe eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy whoneed a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, butsinners.”  Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some peoplecame and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of thePharisees are fasting, but yours are not?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast whilehe is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the timewill come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day theywill fast. “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment.Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burstthe skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pournew wine into new wineskins.” One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as hisdisciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Phariseessaid to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and hiscompanions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, heentered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful onlyfor priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man forthe Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came tohim, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son ofAlphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, andLevi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many taxcollectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there weremany who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw himeating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why doeshe eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy whoneed a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, butsinners.”  Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some peoplecame and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of thePharisees are fasting, but yours are not?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast whilehe is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the timewill come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day theywill fast. “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment.Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burstthe skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pournew wine into new wineskins.” One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as hisdisciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Phariseessaid to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and hiscompanions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, heentered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful onlyfor priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man forthe Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him.While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?”Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.“No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins.”One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.”Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came tohim, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son ofAlphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, andLevi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many taxcollectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there weremany who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw himeating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why doeshe eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy whoneed a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, butsinners.”  Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some peoplecame and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of thePharisees are fasting, but yours are not?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast whilehe is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the timewill come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day theywill fast. “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment.Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burstthe skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pournew wine into new wineskins.” One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as hisdisciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Phariseessaid to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and hiscompanions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, heentered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful onlyfor priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man forthe Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came tohim, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son ofAlphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, andLevi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many taxcollectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there weremany who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw himeating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why doeshe eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy whoneed a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, butsinners.”  Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some peoplecame and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of thePharisees are fasting, but yours are not?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast whilehe is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the timewill come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day theywill fast. “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment.Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burstthe skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pournew wine into new wineskins.” One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as hisdisciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Phariseessaid to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and hiscompanions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, heentered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful onlyfor priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man forthe Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

JUNE 8 | II The Authority of the King | Mark 2:13-28 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came tohim, and he began to teach them. As he walked along, he saw Levi son ofAlphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, andLevi got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many taxcollectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there weremany who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw himeating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why doeshe eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy whoneed a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, butsinners.”  Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some peoplecame and asked Jesus, “How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of thePharisees are fasting, but yours are not?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast whilehe is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the timewill come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day theywill fast. “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment.Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burstthe skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pournew wine into new wineskins.” One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as hisdisciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Phariseessaid to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and hiscompanions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, heentered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful onlyfor priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man forthe Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

Tuesday – Acts 1:9-149 After Jesus said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” 12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk[c] from the city. 13 When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. They stood there, staring into the empty sky. Suddenly two men appeared in white robes! They said, “You Galileans, why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly and mysteriously as he left.” So they left the mountain called Olives and returned to Jerusalem. It was a little over half a mile. They went to the upper room they had been using as a meeting place: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James, son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas, son of James. They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included. Also Jesus' mother, Mary, and his brothers. Acts 1:9-14 MSGFaithfulness to God's mission should mark the life of a person who has given their heart to Him. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 ESV1) Connected Together we are a formidable force and a strong witness for God and the beauty of His family on Mission.All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-47 NLT2) AccountableReal conversations before a decision is made is the kind of accountability God calls us to. Take good counsel and accept correction, that's the way to live wisely and well. We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but GOD's purpose prevails. Proverbs 19:20-21 MSGLoyalty is Godly, but surrounding yourself with people who will empowering unwise or broken decision making can devastating to you and God's mission.  Plans succeed through good counsel; don't go to war without wise advice. Proverbs 20:18 NLTIf you have no real accountability in your life, or you only have a Nathan, then you're likely to end up with a Bathsheba. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. James 3:17 NLT3) Focused Noah did everything as the LORD commanded him. Genesis 7:5 NLTIf your priority list for living comes from any source besides God's word and will, your gonna miss on mission.4) HopefulBut those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 NLTMy hope is based on my confidence in God's leading and faithfulness. 5) Fruitful Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2 ESVThe life of the faithful will always bear fruit, even in times of drought and difficulty!

As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. They stood there, staring into the empty sky. Suddenly two men appeared in white robes! They said, “You Galileans, why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly and mysteriously as he left.” So they left the mountain called Olives and returned to Jerusalem. It was a little over half a mile. They went to the upper room they had been using as a meeting place: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James, son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas, son of James. They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included. Also Jesus' mother, Mary, and his brothers. Acts 1:9-14 MSGFaithfulness to God's mission should mark the life of a person who has given their heart to Him. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 ESV1) Connected Together we are a formidable force and a strong witness for God and the beauty of His family on Mission.All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-47 NLT2) AccountableReal conversations before a decision is made is the kind of accountability God calls us to. Take good counsel and accept correction, that's the way to live wisely and well. We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but GOD's purpose prevails. Proverbs 19:20-21 MSGLoyalty is Godly, but surrounding yourself with people who will empowering unwise or broken decision making can devastating to you and God's mission.  Plans succeed through good counsel; don't go to war without wise advice. Proverbs 20:18 NLTIf you have no real accountability in your life, or you only have a Nathan, then you're likely to end up with a Bathsheba. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. James 3:17 NLT3) Focused Noah did everything as the LORD commanded him. Genesis 7:5 NLTIf your priority list for living comes from any source besides God's word and will, your gonna miss on mission.4) HopefulBut those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 NLTMy hope is based on my confidence in God's leading and faithfulness. 5) Fruitful Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2 ESVThe life of the faithful will always bear fruit, even in times of drought and difficulty!

Pastor Jon Verwey 13 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them. 14 As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him. 15 While […]

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. And a big shout-out today to Jeffrey Brewer from Festus, MO. William, thank you for being a part of this movement through Project23. You are making a difference. This one's for you. Today, we're looking at Mark 3:13-19: And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons. He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. — Mark 3:13-19 Jesus went up a mountain, away from the crowds, and called a group of disciples to himself. Not to witness his miracles—but to be with him. That's where all true Christian mission begins: with presence, not performance. After all, Christian mission has Christ in the name. Jesus calls them in before he sends them out. Don't miss that basis. Before they ever preached a sermon or cast out a demon. Before they healed. Before they traveled. Before they led. Before they were sent. Jesus called them in to be with him. It's easy to miss that in a world that celebrates productivity. We often think God is most pleased when we're doing something for him. But Jesus modeled that relationship with him always comes before responsibility for him. We must experience his transformation from within to accomplish his duty without. Jesus's mission always starts with this: sit with him—then step out for him. Our mission is rooted in presence, not performance. It's about being formed by the one we follow—not just doing ministry in his name, or worse, doing it in our own strength and slapping his name on top. For example, consider the men mentioned in this text today. They were ordinary disciples, like you and me. There was nothing extraordinary about them. Except for the fact that they had been with Jesus and he empowered them to extraordinary things because of him. They were not impressive men. Not one of them. But they did extraordinary things. Take John Mark, for example. There was nothing extraordinary about him. He bailed on Paul, and then Paul refused to take him on another mission trip. In this Gospel, he writes down the story of Jesus told by Peter, who was very impulsive and even denied Jesus. Today, we hold an extraordinary book in our hands because men like the ones listed here have been with Jesus. Today, focus more on being with Jesus than doing for him. Let that time fuel the work he wants to do with you—and through you—tomorrow. ASK THIS: How has your busyness overshadowed your time with Jesus? What keeps you from simply being with Jesus before serving? In what ways do you rely on your strength instead of his? Who are you seeking to impress—Jesus or others—and why? DO THIS: Sit quietly with Jesus for ten minutes today before doing any task for him. PRAY THIS: Lord Jesus, thank you for calling me into your presence before sending me out. Help me rest in your nearness so I can serve from your strength. Amen. PLAY THIS: Abide.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are in the Gospel of Mark. Visit the website and purchase the Scripture Journal for this study so that you can follow along with us. I am giving a shout-out today to Tony Wendt from Neenah, WI. Thank you for being a monthly partner in Project23 and helping us share the Gospel with millions as we work our way through the entire Bible. Today, we're looking at Mark 2:13-14: He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. — Mark 2:13-14 Levi wasn't looking for Jesus. He was busy doing what he always did—collecting taxes, padding his pockets, ripping off his own people. He was despised by people. Rejected by locals. Labeled a traitor. The guy nobody thought Jesus would want, Jesus wanted. Jesus walks right up to him and says two words that changed everything: "Follow me." No elaborate speech. No warning to his present posse. No preconditions to the call. Just a command that cuts through the shame, guilt, and isolation. And Levi responds. Immediately. He doesn't overthink it, unlike many others. He doesn't argue with a man he doesn't even know. He just gets up and goes. That's what happens when Jesus calls. He sees beyond your past. He sees beyond your reputation. He calls you to leave your booth behind—whatever old life you've been sitting in—and walk into a brand-new identity. If you're wondering whether Jesus could ever want someone like you, remember Levi. You're exactly the kind of person Jesus came to call. So, what booth are you still sitting in today? It's time to leave it behind, get up, and follow Jesus. #FollowMe, #NewIdentity, #Project23 ASK THIS: What old identity have you been clinging to that Jesus is calling you to leave behind? How would you respond if Jesus said "Follow me" to you right now? What fears keep you seated instead of standing up to follow? Who in your life needs to hear that Jesus calls outsiders like Levi? DO THIS: Identify one “booth” you're stuck at—some place where shame, fear, or comfort is keeping you seated. Stand up. Take one step today toward following Jesus more fully. PRAY THIS: Jesus, thank you for seeing me when others overlook me. Give me the courage to leave behind anything that holds me back from following you. Amen PLAY THIS: I Thank God.

Saturday, 10 May 2025   Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Matthew 10:3   “Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew, the taxman. Jacob the ‘of Alphaeus,' and Lebbaios, having been denominated Thaddaeus” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus' apostles began to be listed. The next names in the list begin with “Philip.”   Philip has been with Jesus since the time He was in Judea, as is recorded in John 1. However, he is only first mentioned here in Matthew's gospel. This was a common Greek name, especially because of the founder of the monarchy of the Macedonians, Philip, the father of Alexander the Great.   The name is derived from philos, friendly, and hippos, a horse. As such, it signifies Lover of Horses. Next, it says, “and Bartholomew.”   This is not a given name, but signifies Son of Talmai. The word bar is the Aramaic word for son. Talmai would be the name of his father. It means Plowman. Hence, he is Son of Plowman. Bartholomew is believed to be the same as Nathanael.   If so, he was from Cana in the Galilee, as is recorded in John 21:2. The two were together in John 1:44. As such, it would make sense that they are listed together and probably were sent out together. Nathanael is from the Hebrew Nethanel. It means Given of God or God has Given. Next in the list is “Thomas.”   The name is derived from the Hebrew to'am, twin. As such, his name means Twin. He is also called Didymus, the Greek word for Twin. Next, it says, “and Matthew, the taxman.”   Matthew was introduced in Matthew 9:9. He is the tax collector called by Jesus, who is also known as Levi. In Mark and Luke, Thomas and Matthew are named in reverse order.   The seeming implication is that Matthew and Thomas are twins, with Matthew being the older. However, in his humility, he places his brother Thomas, the twin, first. Whereas the other two place him according to birth order. This is only speculation, but it does fit. Next, it says, “Jacob the ‘of Alphaeus.'”   Jacob is derived from the Hebrew Yaaqob, the meaning of which was explained in Matthew 1:2. His father is identified as Alphaeus. It is believed to be derived from the Hebrew name Heleph found in Joshua 19:33.   That comes from the noun kheleph, an exchange. In other words, “Your compensation for this will be this.” That comes from khalaph, a verb signifying to pass on or pass through. The sense is still of a change, though. Thus, the name means Change or Exchange. Next, it says, “and Lebbaios.”   This name is only found in some Greek texts. Others skip it and go straight to his other name. This name is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word lev, the heart. The extended word derived from that is levav. This gives the sense of courage (and in being heartened).   Therefore, the name probably means Heart, Courageous, Sentimental, or Lionlike. In other words, something to do with the condition of the heart. Of him, it says, “having been denominated Thaddaeus.”   In other words, this is a name bestowed upon someone. The name is believed to be derived from the Aramaic word tadday, the breast. As such, it may be a somewhat euphemistic way of calling him something like Breast Boy, meaning “mommy's boy.” It may speak of his immaturity or of his inability to break away from her control.   Life application: In these names, like in all things in the Bible, we are being given information about other things. Some of these names will make connections back to Old Testament passages so that when they are studied, typology will be revealed.   It is not wise to jump to sudden conclusions, making dubious connections until a thorough study of the words and names is made. This is especially true when using English translations. Quite often, people will read a passage that may have the same English word in the Old Testament that is found in a passage in the New Testament.   From there, a conclusion is made that there is a pattern or parallel. However, when the root words are studied, it is discovered that there is no etymological connection. In other words, a pretext was formed by wrongly associating two passages which had nothing to do with one another.   This is quite common, and it has led to piles and piles of incorrect deductions. However, once such incorrect connections are made, they quickly get passed on and become standard teachings, even though they are wrong. As such, it is always best to take patterns and parallels based on English words with a grain of salt until one is sure that the connection is valid. Therefore, be circumspect in what you accept.   Lord God, thank You for the challenge Your word presents us. We are given this treasure and should, therefore, handle it carefully. Help us to remember to do so at all times. May we never teach something that is not first checked out and substantiated to be correct. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

Preached at St Paul Lutheran Church, Rockford, Illinois on May 5th, 2025.Support Rev Fisk at SubscribeStarOrder Rev Fisk's books at AmazonCatch Rev Fisk on A Brief History of Power podcastFor video, visit Rev Fisk's Rumble channel Get the Mad Mondays newsletter, a round up of news from a Christian perspective with encouragement from Rev FiskFind out more about the Sons of Solomon, a prayer discipline for men

Are You Willing To Follow Without Recognition Mark 3:16-19 16These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), 17James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), 18Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot 19and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

“That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! ‘Peace be with you,’ he said. As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord!” (John 20:19–20 NLT) If we were telling the origin story of the Christian church, this would be a compelling first scene. A handful of Jesus’ followers hiding behind closed doors, shell-shocked, confused, and too scared to show their faces in public. Suddenly the risen Jesus miraculously appears in the flesh, victorious over sin and death, confirming the truth of everything He taught and promised them. At some point, either while Jesus was in the room or after He left, the truth must have dawned on them. If the One they served is more powerful than sin and death, then (1) they had nothing to fear, and (2) the world needed to know. We see their newfound boldness and sense of purpose in the passages that follow. That’s the power of the resurrection. Armed with that power, this small group of believers changed the world. And most of them sacrificed their lives to do it. According to church tradition, Peter took the gospel to Pontus, Galatia, Bithynia, Cappadocia, and Asia. He was crucified upside down because he told his executioners that he wasn’t worthy of being crucified in the same manner as Jesus. Andrew spread the gospel through what is now Russia, Turkey, and Greece. He, too, was crucified. Thomas wasn’t present when Jesus first appeared to the disciples in John 20. And he doubted their story. But when Jesus appeared again, and Thomas saw Him, his doubts disappeared. He took the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection all the way to India. He died after being impaled by the spears of four soldiers. Philip spread the gospel in North Africa and Asia Minor. After he converted the wife of a Roman official, the official had him put to death. Matthew, the tax collector, traveled to Persia and Ethiopia to spread Jesus’ message. He was stabbed to death. Bartholomew accompanied Thomas to India and also shared the gospel in Armenia, Ethiopia, and Southern Arabia. He was crucified. James, the son of Alphaeus, shared the Good News of Christ throughout Syria. He was stoned and then clubbed to death. Simon took the gospel to Persia. He was put to death there when he refused to make a sacrifice to the sun god. Matthias was the man chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. He shared the gospel in Syria, where he was burned to death. John is believed to be the only disciple who died a natural death. He was exiled to the penal colony of Patmos. The apostle Paul traveled extensively to share the gospel. He was beheaded in Rome. The apostle John ended his Gospel with these words: “Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written” (John 21:25 NLT). Among the “many other things” was the impact Jesus had on a small group of ordinary people. He changed their lives forever. And, in turn, they changed the world in His name. As Jesus’ followers, we’re still called to change the world—one life at a time. We have Good News to share—the best news, in fact. If we’re faithful to our calling, we can impact lives for eternity. Reflection question: In what ways would you like to be bolder in sharing your faith with others? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ TELL SOMEONE ABOUT THE MORNING MINDSET - Your personal recommendation can make an eternal difference in the lives of the people you know! STEP ONE: Go to http://YourMorningMindset.com STEP TWO: Share that page with someone you know! ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 3:13–19 - [13] And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. [14] And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach [15] and have authority to cast out demons. [16] He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); [17] James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); [18] Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, [19] and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Luke 6:1–19 (ESV)1On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grainfields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. 2But some of the Pharisees said, "Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?" 3And Jesus answered them, "Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: 4how he entered the house of God and took and ate the bread of the Presence, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those with him?" 5And he said to them, "The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath." 6On another Sabbath, he entered the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was withered. 7And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the Sabbath, so that they might find a reason to accuse him. 8But he knew their thoughts, and he said to the man with the withered hand, "Come and stand here." And he rose and stood there. 9And Jesus said to them, "I ask you, is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to destroy it?" 10And after looking around at them all he said to him, "Stretch out your hand." And he did so, and his hand was restored. 11But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus. 12In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. 13And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: 14Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, 15and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who wa

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:   ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate. To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 3:13–19 - [13] And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. [14] And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach [15] and have authority to cast out demons. [16] He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); [17] James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); [18] Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, [19] and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 2:13–14 - [13] He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. [14] And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Tuesday, 8 April 2025   As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he arose and followed Him. Matthew 9:9   “And Jesus, passing thence, He saw a man sitting upon the tax-booth, being called Matthew. And He says to him, ‘You follow Me.' And, having arisen, he followed Him” (CG).   In the previous verse, it noted that the multitudes marveled and glorified God who had given such power to men as to heal the paralytic. As noted, the healing was both physical and spiritual. Jesus had said that the man's sins were forgiven. The fact that He healed the man physically substantiated His words concerning forgiveness. Thus, the crowds marveled. Next, it says, “And Jesus, passing thence.”   A new word is found here, “paragó.” It is derived from para, beside, and agó, to lead, bring, carry, etc. Therefore, it signifies “to lead near.” Strong's Lexicon says –   “The verb ‘paragó' is used in the New Testament to describe the action of leading or bringing something or someone alongside or past a certain point. It can imply a physical movement or a metaphorical passage, such as the passing of time or events.”   To understand the metaphorical meaning, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7:31, “For the form of this world is passing away [paragó].”   Looking at the eight literal uses of the word in the gospels, each gives the sense of passing near a person or persons who become a part of the ongoing narrative. Such is the case here where Matthew next records, “He saw a man sitting upon the tax-booth.”   Here is another new word, telónion. It is derived from telónés, the dreaded tax collector who seems to pop up in every society. In this case, the word telónion refers to his place of business. Today, we might say “tax office.” In the case of Israel at the time, it was probably a booth or a table where taxes were collected. Of this person, a typical dreaded and disdained publican, it next says, “being called Matthew.”   In Mark, the name is Levi the son of Alphaeus. Luke simply calls him Levi. They are the same person, but Matthew anticipates his designated apostolic name at this time. In the selection of the apostles, both Mark and Luke will call him Matthew. Of him, he next records, “And He says to him, ‘You follow Me.'”   Although it is only speculation, it is possible that this calling actually comes after some sort of previous interaction. It may be that Matthew has heard Jesus speak, or they may have personally conversed about some matter or another.   Whatever is the case, Jesus knew that this person was ready to leave his duties as a tax collector and take on a completely different pursuit. And so, it next says, “And, having arisen, he followed Him.”   Matthew made the wisest decision he could possibly have made. He may not have even realized it at the time. Or it may be that in hearing that this man could forgive sins (based on the previous passage), he may have thought, “This is what I need. I'm a reprobate to my society and a sinful man.” Whatever prompted him, he heard the call and responded.   Life application: There is a calling to come to Jesus to be saved. If you have responded to that through belief, you are saved. But there may be an additional calling upon you. You may have the inner desire prompting you to become a missionary, tell others about the word, become a preacher, or plaster your car with Jesus bumper stickers.   Whatever you are prompted to do, if it is glorifying of God and not contrary to the Bible, don't quench it. Rather, respond in a manner that will get the ball rolling and then continue to do what is necessary to keep it going. Fan the flames of the passion within you.   Matthew was asked to follow, and He did. You may have been designed by God in your makeup, time, position, etc., to follow Him in a particular way. So, get up and go!    As a bonus concerning tax collectors and what Matthew was brought out of, take time today to listen to Taxman by the Beatles. A couple thousand years after Matthew was brought out of his life of taxing others, people still write about what they think about this profession. If a taxman can be called by Jesus to do other, greater things, so can you.   Lord God, You have called sinners to come unto You through the precious shed blood of Christ. I'm a sinner! I responded on that glorious day. Now, help me to continue to follow closely beside You all my days. To Your glory, I pray. Amen.  

Who Is Jesus? // Week 4 // Jesus Empowers WomenPastors JF and Ashley WilkersonHebrews 1:1-3a NIV 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.John 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.Galatians 3:26-28 NIV 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.Luke 6:12-16 NIV 12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 13 When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: 14 Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, 16 Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.Luke 10:1 NIV After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.Luke 8:1-3 NIV 1 After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.“Phoebe, the deacon who carried the letter from Paul and read it aloud to her house church. Prisca (Priscilla), whose name is mentioned before her husband's name (something rather notable in the Roman world) as a coworker with Paul. Mary, a hard worker for the gospel in Asia. Junia, prominent among the apostles. Tryphaena and Tryphosa, Paul's fellow workers in the Lord. The beloved Persis, who also worked hard for the Lord.”  Dr. Barr emphasizes that Junia was acknowledged as “prominent among the apostles,” indicating her significant role in early Christian leadership. She notes that more women than men are identified by their ministry in Romans 16.  - Dr. Beth Allison Barr in The Making of Biblical WomanhoodLuke 10:38-42 NIV 38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”John 4:4-10 NIV 4 Now he had to go through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar (Shechem), near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. 7 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” 8 (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”John 4:11-12a NIV 11 “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob…John 4:19; 24-26 NIV 19 “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet…” 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” 25 The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” 26 Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.”

The Apostles III - James, Son of Alphaeus - Mt. 10:2-4

(Hebrews 10:25) You can worship God in many places, but there are some things you can only do as you meet with God's people. Today we discover seven simple, plain Bible reasons to regularly assemble in a local church. (0964250313) ----more---- Why Go To Church? Why go to church? I mean, honestly, what's the point? Why did the Lord intend that his people would meet together? You know, we've learned already that the word church means “a called out assembly.” Now, while the purpose of the church doesn't stop with the assembly, it does start there. Some people have so emphasized the fact that the church works outside the walls (which I believe) that we've forgotten, that we're still supposed to meet with God's people. The assembly part is important because, in the meeting of the New Testament church, the ministry is set in motion. It is as we fellowship, as we come together, as we are edified, as we grow, that then we can function in this world. Hebrews 10:25 says this, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” There's a lot of truth wrapped up in Hebrews 10:25.  We Are Not To Forsake The Assembling Of Ourselves Together.  Do you remember the Lord Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (18:20). There's something precious to Christ about His followers assembling. When the Lord Jesus was on earth, He very often took His disciples aside, by themselves, so He could teach them. May I submit to you? He still wants to do that. And then the Bible says in this verse, as the manner of some is, boy, that describes the world we're living in. Here we are, the end of the age when the assembling of God's people ought to mean more and more, and instead, it seems it means less and less to many Christians. On the average Lord's Day morning, you can drive through the community and see people doing almost everything except going to meet with God's people. May I tell you that's not the Lord's way?  We Are To Exhort One Another. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhort one another.” This is one of the great keys that unlocks the purpose of why we should assemble together. In fact, the previous verse, verse 24 says, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” We've come to the place in our world today where people even look at church selfishly. What can I get out of it? Are my children going to have a good time? How is this going to benefit us? We ought to turn the thing around. It should not be about “what I can get out of the church meeting?” but “what can I contribute?” “How can I be a blessing?” 1 Corinthians 12 tells us that all of the members are connected to the body. All of the members are under the head of the body, which is the Lord Jesus, but they all contribute to one another. We Are To Remember The Founder Is Coming Back. All are participants. None are dispensable. And so we ought to start looking at the local assembly and thinking, what can I do to make my church all God wants it to be? How can I be the kind of member of this called-out assembly that will help us move forward to the glory of God, and then listen to the powerful end of Hebrews 10:25, “and so much the more as ye see the day approaching.” What day is he talking about? He's referring here to the day of the Lord's return. Friend, Jesus is coming back. The Founder is about to return. The Head of the church is going to show up. And I don't know about you. I'd be terribly ashamed for Him to find me totally disconnected from all the other members when He arrives I want Him to find me in my place, doing exactly what God wants me to do. So it brings us back to the question.  Why go to church? Why did the Lord establish that we should meet? Let's see what says. Let's study the example of the early church, in the New Testament.  Here Are Seven Bible Reasons We Go To Church 1. We Assemble To Pray.  This is very important. And we begin here. Maybe, perhaps not where you thought I would begin. Everybody wants to run to the preaching, and I love preaching, let me tell you, I love to do it. And I love to hear it. But why don't we begin with prayer? Because that's where God began. What did Jesus command his disciples to do? Go to the upper room and pray. Acts 1:13-14. We read these words: “And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.” The first meeting in the New Testament church after the Ascension was not an evangelistic crusade, not a revival meeting, not a Bible study. It was a prayer meeting. Why? Because prayer sets everything else in motion. When we meet together, we should come together to pray with and for one another and notice it's something everybody can do. Not just the men were doing it. The women were praying. So we meet together to pray.  2. We Assemble To Hear The Word Of God 1 Thessalonians 5:20 says, “Despise not prophesying.” What's your attitude towards the preaching and teaching of the Word of God? You see, the New Testament church didn't have their own copies of the Scriptures when they came together. There was an expectation to hear the Bible read. They hear these inspired writings expounded. I wonder if there's still that same hunger and thirst in us. When we come together, we ought to come together excited to hear the Word of God.  3. We Assemble To Sing Colossians 3:16 instructs us to speak to and encourage one another “in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.” The Bible says, “speaking to one another.”  We speak to ourselves when we sing. We speak to God when we sing. However, we also speak to one another as we sing. We should sing from our hearts.  4. We Assemble To Give  Number four, the assembly met together to give. Oh yes, you knew that was going to be mentioned because it's given in Scripture. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.” It's powerful. On the Lord's Day, bring your tithe and bring your offerings. Be a giver.  5. We Assemble To Exhort One Another.  It was all about edifying, building up each other. It's not about me; it's about us. It's not about what I can gain, but what I can give. And here's the beautiful secret. As you give and minister and exhort. Guess what the Lord does in you? He does the same building up in your heart in life.  6. We Assemble To Observe The Ordinances.  God left us with two ordinances: Baptism and the Lord's Supper. You must have a visible local church to be able to physically baptize. You also must to have a local assembly to administer the Lord's Table. These are church ordinances. They don't belong to me as an individual. They belong to the local assembly.  7. We Assemble For Fellowship.  Come full circle back to the first principles in at the end of Acts 2 we have this beautiful little snapshot of the early New Testament church. Observe Acts 2:42, “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”  That passage goes on to report on the ministry of the Word. Those assemblies of believers set in motion a chain reaction outside the assembly of the church. We carry our faith outside the church walls. But it all must begin by meeting together. From this, we minister to those who are outside our assembly. Could it be that we're getting so little done in this world? Because the meeting of the New Testament church has gotten skewed by so many things. Perhaps we started thinking so selfishly about it. I remember asking a man one time to come to our church and he said, “Oh, I worship God in the woods.” And I said to him, “Wonderful, I worship God in the woods.” And he looked at me a little surprised, and I said, “I don't go to church simply to worship. I want to worship when I go. I believe in corporate worship, but worship is not a group sport, worship is the individual heart attitude.” You can worship anywhere and everywhere. Yes, you can worship God in your living room, but no, you cannot exhort one another in your living room. Be Faithful You can't be a blessing and help to the whole local church by never being there. I challenge you today. Belong and don't just belong. Be there. When the church meets together. Let it mean something to you to be with God's people. If the church was so important that Christ died for it, don't you think our lives ought to be connected to it? Make up your mind this Lord's Day, at the very next appointed meeting of your local assembly, by the grace of God, you're going to be there. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” You can worship God in many places, but there are some things you can only do as you meet with God's people. Today we discover seven simple, plain Bible reasons to regularly assemble in a local church.

10 : Gospel of Matthew 10 1. And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. 2. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3. Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; 4. Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. 5. These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: ; AB church Lausanne

John 18:15–17 (Listen) Peter Denies Jesus 15 Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, 16 but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. 17 The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man's disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” (ESV)Acts 1:6–14 (Listen) The Ascension 6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” Matthias Chosen to Replace Judas 12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. 13 And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.1 Footnotes [1] 1:14 Or brothers and sisters. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, the plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) may refer either to brothers or to brothers and sisters; also verse 15 (ESV)Acts 2:1–8 (Listen) The Coming of the Holy Spirit 2:1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested1 on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Footnotes [1] 2:3 Or And tongues as of fire appeared to them, distributed among them, and rested (ESV)

Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Mark 3:13-19 - Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom He wanted and they came to Him. He appointed Twelve, whom He also named Apostles, that they might be with Him and He might send them forth to preach and to have authority to drive out demons: He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom He named Peter; James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, whom He named Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder; Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed Him. Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Saint Francis, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2) "Sins of the flesh" may lack "angelicality" but they are hurting the Vatican https://cruxnow.com/news-analysis/2025/01/sins-of-the-flesh-may-lack-angelicality-but-they-are-hurting-the-vatican 3) Francis' autobiography mocks clerical vestments under the cloak of humility https://www.knightsrepublic.com/single-post/francis-autobiography-mocks-clerical-vestments-under-the-cloak-of-humility 4) Sean Duffy led his family in praying the Hail Mary before his confirmation hearing https://gatewayhispanic.com/video/sean-duffy-leading-his-family-in-praying-the-hail-mary-before-his-confirmation-hearing/

Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wantedand they came to him.He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles,that they might be with himand he might send them forth to preachand to have authority to drive out demons:He appointed the Twelve:Simon, whom he named Peter;James, son of Zebedee,and John the brother of James, whom he named Boanerges,that is, sons of thunder;Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew,Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus;Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean,and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.

For Daily Prayers and more become a Member on PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_______________Year 1 - 1979 Daily Office LectionaryOpening Words:I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.Isaiah 49:6b Confession:Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God. Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen. Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. The InvitatoryLord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia. Psalm 95:1-7The Lord has shown forth his glory: Come let us adore him.Come, let us sing to the Lord; *let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving *and raise a loud shout to him with psalms.For the Lord is a great God, *and a great King above all gods.In his hand are the caverns of the earth, *and the heights of the hills are his also.The sea is his, for he made it, *and his hands have molded the dry land.Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, *and kneel before the Lord our Maker.For he is our God,and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand. *Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!The Lord has shown forth his glory: Come let us adore him. The PsalterPsalm 251To 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.2Let none who look to you be put to shame; *let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes.3Show me your ways, O Lord, *and teach me your paths.4Lead me in your truth and teach me, *for you are the God of my salvation;in you have I trusted all the day long.5Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, *for they are from everlasting.6Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; *remember me according to your loveand for the sake of your goodness, O Lord.7Gracious and upright is the Lord; *therefore he teaches sinners in his way.8He guides the humble in doing right *and teaches his way to the lowly.9All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness *to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.10For your Name's sake, O Lord, *forgive my sin, for it is great.11Who are they who fear the Lord? *he will teach them the way that they should choose.12They shall dwell in prosperity, *and their offspring shall inherit the land.13The Lord is a friend to those who fear him *and will show them his covenant.14My eyes are ever looking to the Lord, *for he shall pluck my feet out of the net.15Turn to me and have pity on me, *for I am left alone and in misery.16The sorrows of my heart have increased; *bring me out of my troubles.17Look upon my adversity and misery *and forgive me all my sin.18Look upon my enemies, for they are many, *and they bear a violent hatred against me.19Protect my life and deliver me; *let me not be put to shame, for I have trusted in you.20Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, *for my hope has been in you.21Deliver Israel, O God, *out of all his troubles. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. LessonsIsa. 44:6-8,21-23A Reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah.Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel, and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god. Who is like me? Let them proclaim it, let them declare and set it forth before me. Who has announced from of old the things to come? Let them tell us what is yet to be. Do not fear, or be afraid; have I not told you from of old and declared it? You are my witnesses! Is there any god besides me? There is no other rock; I know not one.Remember these things, O Jacob, and Israel, for you are my servant; I formed you, you are my servant; O Israel, you will not be forgotten by me. I have swept away your transgressions like a cloud, and your sins like mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you. Sing, O heavens, for the Lord has done it; shout, O depths of the earth; break forth into singing, O mountains, O forest, and every tree in it! For the Lord has redeemed Jacob, and will be glorified in Israel.The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Te Deum laudamusYou are God: we praise you; You are the Lord: we acclaim you; You are the eternal Father: All creation worships you. To you all angels, all the powers of heaven, Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise:Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,heaven and earth are full of your glory. The glorious company of apostles praise you. The noble fellowship of prophets praise you. The white-robed army of martyrs praise you. Throughout the world the holy Church acclaims you;Father, of majesty unbounded, your true and only Son, worthy of all worship, and the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide.You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal Son of the Father. When you became man to set us free you did not shun the Virgin's womb. You overcame the sting of deathand opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. You are seated at God's right hand in glory. We believe that you will come and be our judge.Come then, Lord, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood, and bring us with your saintsto glory everlasting. Eph. 4:1-16A Reading from the Letter to the Ephesians.I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all. But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it is said, “When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people.” (When it says, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people's trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body's growth in building itself up in love.The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Mark 3:7-19aA Reading from the Gospel According to Mark.Jesus departed with his disciples to the lake, and a great multitude from Galilee followed him; hearing all that he was doing, they came to him in great numbers from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the Jordan, and the region around Tyre and Sidon. He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, so that they would not crush him; for he had cured many, so that all who had diseases pressed upon him to touch him. Whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and shouted, ‘You are the Son of God!' But he sternly ordered them not to make him known.He went up the mountain and called to him those whom he wanted, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, and to have authority to cast out demons. So he appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); James son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.Then he went home;The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Benedictus Dominus DeusBlessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; * he has come to his people and set them free.He has raised up for us a mighty savior, * born of the house of his servant David.Through his holy prophets he promised of old, that he would save us from our enemies, * from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers * and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham, * to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, * holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, * for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation * by the forgiveness of their sins.In the tender compassion of our God * the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.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 Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And also with you.Let us pray.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. Suffrages BV. Save your people, Lord, and bless your inheritance;R. Govern and uphold them, now and always.V. Day by day we bless you;R. We praise your name for ever.V. Lord, keep us from all sin today;R. Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy.V. Lord, show us your love and mercy;R. For we put our trust in you.V. In you, Lord, is our hope;R. And we shall never hope in vain. The CollectsCollect of the DayAlmighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshiped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Daily Collects:A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for GraceO Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Take a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others. Collect of Saint BasilO Christ God, Who art worshipped and glorified at every place and time; Who art long-suffering, most merciful and compassionate; Who lovest the righteous and art merciful to sinners; Who callest all to salvation with the promise of good things to come: receive, Lord, the prayers we now offer, and direct our lives in the way of Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, cleanse our bodies, correct our thoughts, purify our minds and deliver us from all affliction, evil and illness. Surround us with Thy holy angels, that guarded and instructed by their forces, we may reach unity of faith and the understanding of Thine unapproachable glory: for blessed art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen. A Prayer of St. John ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. DismissalLet us bless the LordThanks be to God!The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen

Jesus went out along the sea.All the crowd came to him and he taught them.As he passed by, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus,sitting at the customs post.Jesus said to him, “Follow me.”And he got up and followed Jesus.While he was at table in his house,many tax collectors and sinners sat with Jesus and his disciples;for there were many who followed him.Some scribes who were Pharisees saw that Jesus was eating with sinnersand tax collectors and said to his disciples,“Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”Jesus heard this and said to them,“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”

Read OnlineAs he passed by, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus, sitting at the customs post. Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed Jesus. Mark 2:14How do you know the will of God for your life? In his spiritual classic, The Spiritual Exercises, Saint Ignatius of Loyola presented three ways in which we come to know the will of God. (See mycatholic.life/ignatius for more.) The first way is the clearest and most definitive way. It is a time in which the person experiences a “clarity beyond doubting” as a result of a special grace of God. In describing this experience, Saint Ignatius mentions the passage quoted above as an illustration of this experience.There is little said about this call of Levi in the Gospel of Mark, which is also recorded in Matthew's Gospel (Matthew 9:9). Levi, who is also known as Matthew, was going about his occupation of collecting taxes at his customs post. It appears that Jesus spoke only these two simple words to Levi: “Follow me.” As a result of these two words, Levi abandons his former life and becomes a follower of Jesus. Why would Levi do such a thing? What was it that convinced him to follow Jesus? Clearly there was much more than just a two-word invitation from Jesus that convinced him to respond.That which convinced Levi was a special grace of God which produced within his soul a “clarity beyond doubting.” Somehow Levi just knew that God was calling him to abandon his former life and embrace this new life. There was no long discussion, no weighing of the pros and cons, no prolonged thinking about it. Levi just knew, and he responded.Though this form of clarity in life is rare, it's important to be aware of the fact that sometimes God does act this way. This is a great gift when it happens! And though this depth of instant clarity is not always the way God speaks to us, it's important to acknowledge that God does speak to us this way at times.Reflect, today, upon this call of Levi. Ponder this inner certitude he was given in that moment. Try to imagine what he experienced and what others may have thought of his choice to follow Jesus. Be open to this same grace; and if you ever feel as if God speaks to you with such clarity, be ready and willing to respond without hesitation.My dear Lord, thank You for calling us all to follow You without hesitation. Thank You for the joy of being Your disciple. Give me the grace to always know Your will for my life and help me to respond to You with total abandonment and trust. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: The Calling of Saint Matthew By Giovanni Paolo Panini

“On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me: Eleven Pipers Piping ..." symbolizing the eleven faithful apostles: Simon Peter, Andrew, James, John, Phillip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas son of James. The list does not include Judas Iscariot, the twelfth disciple who betrayed Jesus. Prayer: Heavenly Father, Your Son Jesus called the twelve to His side, called them to leave their homes and families, just as Jesus left his to teach us to live worthily. As we are called this holy season to help the poor and needy, the weak, the inflicted and the abandoned help us to walk perseveringly in the difficult and sometimes painful paths of service to others.  Amen.  The post The Eleventh Day of Christmas – A Prayerful Meditation on the Twelve Days of Christmas – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Introduction: Acts 1 serves as a crucial transition between the Gospels and the early Church, marking Jesus' ascension and the promise of the Holy Spirit. This chapter sets the stage for the Holy Spirit's transformative work in believers' lives. In this teaching, we will explore how Acts 1 illustrates the importance of waiting on the Spirit, receiving empowerment, and understanding our role in God's mission. 1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit Acts 1:1-5 (NLT)
1 In my first book, I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit. 3 During the forty days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles occasionally, proving to them in many ways that he was alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God.
4 Once, when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. 5 John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Jesus instructed His disciples to wait for the promised gift of the Father—the Holy Spirit. This divine empowerment was essential for them to fulfill their calling. In the same way, we are called to begin each day refreshed in the presence of the Lord, receiving the Holy Spirit's power anew. The Holy Spirit working through the body of Christ is the most significant evidence to the world that Jesus is alive. Just as the children of Israel relied on fresh manna daily in the wilderness, we, too, must seek a daily refilling of the Spirit. Spiritual empowerment is not a one-time event but a continuous renewal, equipping us for God's purposes. The disciples' waiting was intentional, involving prayer, scripture reflection, and fellowship. Likewise, we must cultivate a posture of expectation and readiness to receive and move in the Spirit. This waiting is not passive—it is active, filled with anticipation, preparation, and community engagement. As we align ourselves with God's timing and rely on His grace, we are strengthened to live out our faith and reveal His kingdom to the world. 2. Empowerment for Mission Acts 1:8 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” We can only effectively be witnesses for Christ with the power of the Holy Spirit. Without Him, we are the same as any other religion or philosophy; our efforts will always fall short, no matter how well-intentioned. The best we can do on our own will never be enough to transform lives or reveal the glory of God. The Holy Spirit eliminates all barriers—cultural, linguistic, racial, gender and social divisions are dismantled as we walk in His power. Through the Spirit, unity and understanding are supernaturally achieved, enabling us to reach hearts that human efforts cannot. In a world that often turns to gimmicks and strategies for evangelism, God's way requires only one essential: the baptism of the Holy Spirit. It is not our persuasive words or clever methods that make the difference; it is the person of the Holy Spirit working through us. When filled with the Spirit, He bears witness to Christ, using us as His vessels to bring the gospel to life in power and truth. 3. The Ascension and the Promise of His Return Acts 1:9-11 9 After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. 10 As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Too many so-called disciples are still gazing upward, focused on Christ's physical return, instead of looking within and moving in the power of the Holy Spirit. Our concern should not be consumed with when Jesus will return but with the pressing reality of a world desperately needing Him. We are called, chosen, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring His presence and message to lost people. Suppose we are not actively witnessing the people around us. In that case, we risk becoming like the disciples' initial reaction to Jesus' ascension—so heavenly-minded that we are no earthly good. While the timing of Christ's return remains unknown, one truth is certain: He is already with us through the Holy Spirit, guiding and equipping us for the work. The Holy Spirit is entirely God, equal with the Father and the Son. We have everything we need in Him—the fullness of God's power, presence, and purpose. Instead of longing solely for Christ's physical return, we must embrace the reality of His Spirit dwelling within us. The Spirit empowers us to fulfill the mission of reaching the world for Christ, bringing heaven's hope to earth until the day He comes again. 4. Community in Prayer Acts 1:12-14 12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile.[c] 13 When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the zealot), and Judas (son of James). 14 They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. As the body of Christ, we are made up of many members, and the unity we cultivate directly impacts the power of the Holy Spirit released among us. The early Church exemplified the transformative power of community and prayer, showing that living in the Spirit is not merely an individual journey but a deeply communal one. Prayer meetings are often the least attended in many churches because we fail to grasp the complete revelation of prayer and the work of the Holy Spirit. When we understand that prayer is not merely offering well-wishes to heaven but entering a space of divine encounter—waiting for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and declaring His prophetic word—prayer will no longer feel optional. Instead, it will become a source of longing and a place of transformation. The continued experience of Pentecost requires us to gather consistently in prayer. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit, revival, and prayer are inseparable. Revival is born out of prayer, ignited by the Spirit's outpouring. To sustain a vibrant, Spirit-filled life as a community, we must commit to praying together with expectation and unity, just as the early Church did. Conclusion In Acts 1, we witness the transformative call to wait, receive, and act. The disciples were not merely instructed to remain in Jerusalem; they were charged to prepare for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to empower them to fulfill the Great Commission. Today, we stand in that same lineage of faith, equipped with the Holy Spirit's power to carry out God's mission. This is not a passive calling—it is a charge to be active witnesses for Christ, living lives that reflect His kingdom here and now. The promise of the Spirit is not reserved for a select few; it is for all who believe and are willing to wait, receive, and move in His power. We are empowered for purpose—not to sit idly by but to transform the world through the gospel. The Spirit equips us to cross every barrier, unite across every division, and demonstrate God's love to a broken and searching world. Christ's ascension and the promise of His return call us to urgency and focus. Instead of staring into the heavens, let us look to the Spirit within us and to the harvest fields around us. Charge: * Wait expectantly in prayer for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Make prayer a priority both individually and as a community. * Walk boldly in the Spirit's power, knowing that you are equipped to overcome barriers and bring the light of Christ to every dark corner of the world. * Witness actively, sharing the gospel wherever you go, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through you in power and truth. Remember, you have been empowered for a divine purpose. Go, therefore, in the power of the Holy Spirit, and be the hands and feet of Jesus in a world longing for His hope and truth. Through word and action, let your life declare that Christ is alive and His kingdom is at hand. -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy,  Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights  Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church  (609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)     -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy,  Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights  Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church  (609) 927-4560(w),

Show notes below... Join us in https://JoinRemarkable.comWe are exploring Neville Goddard's 12 Disciples starting in January 2025. If you got gold from this Special Episode of the Podcast, join us! The twelve disciples represent the twelve qualities of mind which can be controlled and disciplined by man. If disciplined they will at all times obey the command of the one who has disciplined them. These twelve qualities in man are potentials of every mind. Undisciplined their actions resemble more the actions of a mob than they do of a trained and disciplined army. All the storms and confusions that engulf man can be traced directly to these twelve ill-related characteristics of the human mind in its present slumbering state. Until they are awakened and disciplined they will permit every rumor and sensuous emotion to move them. When these twelve are disciplined and brought under control the one who accomplishes this control will say to them, “Hereafter I call you not slaves but friends.” He knows that from that moment on each acquired disciplined attribute of mind will befriend and protect him. The names of the twelve qualities reveal their natures. These names are not given to them until they are called to discipleship. They are: Simon, who was later surnamed Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Canaanite, and Judas. The first quality to be called and disciplined is Simon or the attribute of hearing. This faculty, when lifted to the level of a disciple, permits only such impressions to reach consciousness as those which his hearing has commanded him to let enter. No matter what the wisdom of man might suggest or the evidence of his senses convey, if such suggestions and ideas are not in keeping with that which he hears, he remains unmoved. This one has been instructed by his Lord and made to understand that every suggestion he permits to pass his gate will, on reaching his Lord and Master (his consciousness), leave its impression there, which impression must in time become an expression. The instruction to Simon is that he should permit only dignified and honorable visitors or impressions to enter the house (consciousness) of his Lord. No mistake can be covered up or hidden from his Master, for every expression of life tells his Lord whom he consciously or unconsciously entertained. When Simon by his works proves himself to be a true and faithful disciple then he receives the surname of Peter or the rock, the unmoved disciple, the one who cannot be bribed or coerced by any visitor. He is called by his Lord Simon Peter, the one who faithfully hears the commands of his Lord and besides which commands he hears not. It is this Simon Peter who discovers the I AM to be Christ, and for his discovery is given the keys to heaven, and is made the foundation stone upon which the Temple of God rests. Buildings must have firm foundations and only the disciplined hearing can, on learning that the I AM is Christ, remain firm and unmoved in the knowledge that I AM Christ and beside ME there is no savior. The second quality to be called to discipleship is Andrew or courage...

This is message 10 in The Twelve Disciples series Matthew 10:2-3 James the Less, identified as the son of Alphaeus, serves as an example of quiet faithfulness and humility. With no recorded words or notable actions in Scripture, he represents the countless believers who serve behind the scenes with unwavering devotion. His life underscores the truth that God values faithfulness over recognition and will one day reveal the eternal impact of such quiet service. Don't forget to download our app for more from the Riverview Baptist Church. http://onelink.to/rbcapp Find more at https://riverviewbc.com/ Donate through Pushpay https://pushpay.com/pay/riverviewbc

He was a Galilean, the son of Alphaeus, and was originally named Levi. He was a tax-collector (an occupation despised by the Jews of Palestine) until he met the Lord, who said to him, "Follow me." From that day he was one of the disciples.   After the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the Apostle was appointed to bring the Gospel to his fellow Jews, for whom, according to the Church's tradition, he wrote down the Gospel for the first time, in the Aramaic language, eight years after the Ascension. Some years later, this book was translated into Greek by St James, the first Bishop of Jerusalem. No copy in the original language has survived.   Later, St Matthew traveled to Parthia and the city of Hierapolis (on the Euphrates river) to proclaim the Gospel to the pagans there. One tradition holds that he reposed in peace in that region at a great age. Another tradition holds that he was martyred by a king of that region, who later repented and was baptized, taking the name Matthew. The king then cast down the idols and established the Christian faith in his realm.   When St Matthew is portrayed in icons, the likeness of a man is shown with him, one of the four living creatures spoken of in the first chapter of Ezekiel. St Irenaeus writes that the man symbolizes Christ's Incarnation.

Today's Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Father Charles Murr joins Terry Gospel - Lk 6:12-16 - Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, He called His disciples to Himself, and from them He chose Twelve, whom He also named Apostles: Simon, whom He named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles Saints Simon and Jude, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day

Gospel Luke 6:12-16 Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.   Reflection There's a mystery that surrounds the divinity of God. There's a mystery that surrounds the identity of Jesus. Is he a man or is he God? Well, we know he's both. So what we see in so many situations, he is the model of who we are to be, we're to be like him. And the beautiful image here is that whenever he has a decision to make, he turns to God, turns to the father. It's like God is praying to God, and the point is well taken, because it means that we should always be focused on turning to God first. What is it I need to do? Help me to see what is really important.   Closing Prayer Father, you know everything, yet you still invite us to turn to you over and over again, and seek your guidance. Seek your direction. Help us never to feel that we can do this work alone. It's our greatest weakness. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel - Lk 6:12-16 - Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and He spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, He called his disciples to Himself, and from them He chose Twelve, whom He also named Apostles: Simon, whom He named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles Saints Saints Simon and Jude, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day