Podcasts about Beloved

In this episode, we talk about the recent death of our beloved father, Jack Craft—what we’ve experienced, what we’ve learned. We also share many tender, practical suggestions from listeners about how to manage this kind of a profound loss. Resources & links related to this episode: Raymond Carver’s last book, A New Path to the Waterfall (Amazon, Bookshop) One last reminder to sign up for The Happiness Project Revisited course I Want You to Know: My Portrait of You Obituary of John Charles Craft Elizabeth is reading: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel (Amazon, Bookshop) Gretchen is rereading: American Gods by Neil Gaiman (Amazon, Bookshop) Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before Gymboree became a cultural icon in the 80s and 90s, it was just one lonely new mom trying to find connection. Joan Barnes started hosting weekly playgroups for parents… and demand exploded. What began as a diversion became a business. Then a franchise. Then a brand everyone seemed to know, with its padded playrooms and parachute games. From the outside, it looked like a runaway success: hundreds of locations, glowing press coverage, celebrity buzz. But inside, the franchise model was failing. A potential Hasbro rescue vanished overnight. And Joan—while smiling for the world—was breaking under the pressure.Then came a major pivot that helped turn Gymboree around. The company was going to survive, but Joan realized she might not. She stepped away for good, to fight for her health. In this episode, Joan talks frankly about building Gymboree, losing control of it, and learning some vital lessons about ambition, balance, and humility. What You'll LearnThe hidden math of franchising: when scale makes you weaker, not strongerHow—years before social media—Joan used the media as her marketing engine The moment Gymboree nearly died—and the brilliant pivot that saved itWhat it feels like to be celebrated publicly while privately falling apartWhy “more hustle” can be a trapTimestamps: (Timecodes are approximate and may shift depending on platform.)[08:20] “Lonely and isolated”—The new-mom need that sparked Joan's first playgroup[13:43] The early days: parachute games, circle songs, and connecting with other parents[16:59] The first, $3,000 investment, and expanding to new venues.[23:08] Learning the hard way: “I didn't even know what franchise meant.” [38:40] Joan discovers her business model has a terrifying Catch-22[45:05] A humiliating gut punch: Hasbro calls off a life-saving deal [50:15] The pivot to profitability: play centers + clothing stores[1:03:00] Success on the outside, collapse on the inside: panic, addiction, treatment [1:14:17] After Gymboree: yoga studios, recovery, and redefining successHey—want to be a guest on HIBT?If you're building a business, why not get advice from some of the greatest entrepreneurs on Earth?Every Thursday on the HIBT Advice Line, a previous HIBT guest helps new entrepreneurs work through the challenges they're facing right now. Advice that's smart, actionable, and absolutely free.Just call 1-800-433-1298, leave a message, and you may soon get guidance from someone who started where you did, and went on to build something massive.So—give us a call. We can't wait to hear what you're working on.This episode was produced by Chris Maccini with music composed by Ramtin Arablouei.It was edited by Neva Grant with research by Rommel Wood.Our engineers were Jimmy Keeley and Patrick Murray.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We worked for several days on this obituary for my father. We wanted to capture his extraordinary spirit. Resources & links related to this episode: Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Francis Chan sits down with Joni Eareckson Tada for a deeply personal conversation about perseverance, joy, and enduring faith in a life marked by suffering. Joni shares how nearly 60 years in a wheelchair, seasons of pain, illness, and discouragement have become the place where Jesus meets her most intimately, strengthening her to “fight for joy” day after day. Together, they talk about what helps believers endure to the end: partnering with the Holy Spirit, building a “repository” of Scripture to combat lies, and learning to see hardship as an invitation to know Christ more deeply (Philippians 3:8–10). Joni also reflects on the beauty of community that grows organically around weakness, the joy of serving “the least of these,” and the hope of heaven that shapes how we live now. If you've been discouraged, tired, or tempted to give up, this episode will strengthen your faith and remind you that Jesus is near and worth holding onto. And we encourage you to dive deeper into a revelation of the love of God with Francis' latest book, “Beloved.” It's available now wherever books are sold.

In this second episode of the series titled "The Wisdom Prayer", Michael Blue unpacks the life of King Solomon, revealing how true wisdom flows from a relationship with God, not a performance for God. Drawing from 1 Kings 3 and 2 Samuel 12, this episode explores why Solomon's greatness was rooted not in strategy alone, but in love, identity, and offering. Before Solomon ever reigned, he was first Jedidiah, beloved of the Lord. And it was from that place of divine affection that wisdom, prosperity, and influence were released. This episode challenges the transactional mindset of modern professionalism and calls Kingdom leaders back to relational wisdom that produces sustainable success. New podcast episodes are available every Monday wherever you listen to podcasts.

You're not rejected. You're accepted. Permanently. In this message, we unpack one of the most freeing truths of the gospel: you are accepted in the Beloved. Not because of what you've done—but because of who you're in. Discover why identity starts with God, how adoption changes everything, and how God doesn't love you by looking at you, but by looking at Jesus. This message exposes the lie of rejection, heals the wounds of trauma, and calls you out of isolation into belonging. If you've ever felt unseen, unworthy, or spiritually homeless, this one is for you. Accepted. Adopted. Beloved.  

11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

Ain't Nobody's Fool

A Sunday sermon by Pastor Brett Deal.Tonight, we sit on the water's edge of a new year. With the sun set and moonlight piercing the darkness, we watch the slow ripple on the waves of yesterday and watch for dawn. It may not seem it, but the hours before sunrise are some of the best for fishing. This silent time lit soft by stars is the perfect time to cast wide our net into the new year. I'm not talking about new year's resolutions that only last a day or two. I'm talking about epiphany! Epiphany is the culmination of prolonged effort—like wisemen from the East making their long journey to Bethlehem or a faithful fisherman patiently casting out His net. At the beginning of last year, Jesus enlightened us with his preaching (Matthew 5-7). On a mountainside He spoke light and life, opening our eyes and ears and illuminating our hearts. Now, Jesus will come down from the mountain and walk among us, living His message into our world (Matthew 8.1). As we set out with Jesus the Messiah, would you enter this new year challenged by our fourth century sibling, Chromatius of Aquila, who wrote:“‘The kingdom of heaven is near.' So do you want the kingdom of heaven to also be near for you? Prepare these ways in your heart, in your senses and in your soul. Pave within you the way of purity, the way of faith and the way of holiness. Build roads of justice. Remove every scandal of offense from your heart. For it is written: ‘Remove the stones from the road.' And then, indeed, through the thoughts of your heart and the very movements of your soul, Christ the King will enter along certain paths,” (emphasis added).Beloved, the King and His Kingdom are near, so let us begin this new year intently going through the gates, preparing the way for all people, building up the way of the Lord to dwell among us (Isaiah 62.10). Let us join Jesus in the journey as He casts the net wide.

Beloved,Are your affirmations not manifesting?

Paultells us we must be imitators of God as dear children. That phrase is veryimportant. It is only possible to put off bitterness, malice, anger, andunforgiveness because we are dear children of God. Over the years in mycounseling sessions I have hear many people say, “You don't understand whatso-and-so did to me. You don't understand what happened years ago. There is noway I can forgive or love that person.” And humanly speaking, that may be true.But now that you have been born into God's family, you are called to imitateGod. And God is love. Weespecially read this truth in the book of 1 John, where Scripture reminds usthat God is love. That becomes the foundation for our walk. Remember yesterdaywe mentioned that as believers, Paul gives us three clear instructions in thischapter about how we are to walk. We are to: Walk in love (v. 2), walk aschildren of light (v. 8), and to walk carefully and wisely (v. 15). When we walkin this way, we display to the world around us that there is somethingdifferent about us. That difference is not our personality or our strength—itis the supernatural, divine, godly life of Christ living in us. We live thisway only because Christ is in us and we are children of God. Overthe years, I have seen this truth played out many times at weddings, funerals,and family gatherings. These are moments when families, whether in sorrow or ingreat joy, should be coming together in unity. Yet it is heartbreaking to seethe animosity, hatred, and bitterness that sometimes surface. I have heardpeople say, “If they are going to be there, I'm not going.”  If that person is part of the service, Iwon't be.” “I'm not attending the wedding because so-and-so will be there.” Myfriend, that does not display the heart of God's love. Howdo we overcome that? Peter gives us the answer in 2 Peter 1:2-4: “Grace andpeace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, asHis divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness,through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which havebeen given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through theseyou may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption thatis in the world through lust”. He reminds us that we have been called byGod's glory and virtue, and that we have been given exceedingly great andprecious promises, so that through these we may become partakers of the divinenature!  Myfriend, if you are in Christ, you are a partaker of the divine nature. And Godis love. Because of that, we understand that love covers a multitude of sins.In 1 Peter 4:7–10 we read: “But the end of all things is at hand; thereforebe serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent lovefor one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins." Be hospitableto one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister itto one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” Read1 John 4:7–11, where we are reminded once again that: “He who does not lovedoes not know God, for God is love. In these verses, we are told that Goddemonstrated His love by sending His only begotten Son into the world, that wemight live through Him. This is love—not that we loved God, but that He lovedus and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins”. And then comesthe clear application: “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to loveone another.” Thinkon those words today. And may the Lord use these thoughts to encourage you towalk in love—to walk in love as Christ has loved us, and to love oneanother in Christ Jesus. Godbless you. And may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

Welcome to Day 2776 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday –Joseph the Dreamer: Discovering the Depths of a Beloved Biblical Figure.    Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2776 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2776 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled Joseph the Dreamer: Discovering the Depths of a Beloved Biblical Figure.    Joseph, son of Jacob and Rachel, emerges from the pages of Genesis not only as a survivor of betrayal and hardship but as a symbol of divine providence and redemptive purpose. His journey from favored son to slave, prisoner, and ultimately, savior of nations illustrates the unseen hand of God at work through suffering and humility. While many are familiar with his colorful coat and rise to power in Egypt, lesser-known elements of his life bring out the deeper beauty and significance of his character. The first segment is: Joseph the Dreamer: Beyond the Well-Known Dreams Joseph's dreams and his ability to interpret them play a crucial role in his life, as well as in the survival of his family and Egypt. While his dreams of sheaves and celestial bodies bowing to him are well-known, his interpretation of the dreams of Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker is equally significant. These interpretations not only revealed divine insight but became the very means by which Joseph was elevated from prison to the highest court in the land. His gift, given by God, opened the way for his destiny to unfold. The second segment is: Joseph and Potipar's Wife: A Test of Character Joseph's encounter with Potipar's wife, who falsely accused him of misconduct, is often highlighted as a moment of moral integrity. But it also demonstrates his unwavering faith in God. Faced with repeated temptation and the risk of losing his position, Joseph chose righteousness, which ultimately led to unjust imprisonment. Even in the dungeon, however, his faith did not falter. This period of suffering refined his character and prepared him for the weight of future authority. The third segment is: Joseph's Egyptian Name and Wife Upon rising to power, Pharaoh gave Joseph an Egyptian name, Zaphenath-paneah, and a wife, Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On (Genesis forty-one verse forty-five). These details mark Joseph's deep assimilation into Egyptian culture and political structure. His new name, possibly meaning “God speaks and he lives,” highlighted his prophetic role. His marriage into a priestly household further established his legitimacy in the Egyptian elite. Some might expect condemnation for such a union—after all, Potiphera was a priest of a pagan deity. Yet the biblical text offers no such rebuke. Unlike other biblical figures who compromised their faith through foreign marriages, such as Solomon, Joseph remained faithful to Yahweh. He consistently credited God for his success, named his sons in ways that reflected divine providence, and clung to God's promises. His marriage to Asenath, arranged by Pharaoh, served a broader purpose: the...

Given at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Cottage Grove, Oregon.

A Sunday sermon by Pastor Brett Deal.The Bible's rich with all kinds of words. Some are everyday words: the, and, to speak; but others only show up a handful of times, and their rarity causes them to stand out. One great example is episkiazó. Following Matthew, Luke used episkiazó (meaning to overshadow) describing Jesus' transfiguration.  All three Synoptic Gospels harmonize their use of this word (Matthew 17.5; Mark 9.7; Luke 9.34) where on the mountain, as Jesus' disciples watched in awe, Jesus “was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became white as light,” and “a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.”Imagine Luke on a missionary voyage with Paul, with the scroll of Matthew's Gospel rolled out before Him, praying for the best way to share the good news with his friend Theophilus. Then, struck like a divine lightning bolt, Luke's heart was set on fire with the word episkiazó! Luke used overshadow three times. The third time was in Acts 5.15, describing the Apostle Peter—so heavily anointed by the Holy Spirit after Pentecost—people would bring their sick loved ones out to the street where they were healed, overshadowed by the passing Apostle. The second was Christ's transfiguration, but both are imbued with deeper meaning when read them the light of the first. Luke told Theophilus at the beginning when Gabriel the angel announced to Mary about the arrival of the Messiah: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God,” (Luke 1.35). Luke's triple use of episkiazó is illuminating. The Spirit's overshadowing places the emphasis on the actor more than the act. It is the same Spirit overshadowing Mary which magnifies Christ before His disciples. Is it the same Spirit overshadowing Peter which miraculously heals the hurting. Beloved, it is the same Spirit overshadowing you and me today as we draw near to the Father, and say, “I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word,” (1.38).

Ep. 249: Before food trucks were cool, Mike Rypka had a used trailer, a red Vespa for deliveries, and a bold dream of building a taco joint. In this raw and inspiring conversation, he shares how overcoming addiction—and earning respect by leading from the line—shaped the culture behind one of America's most beloved taco brands, now with more than 100 locations. Read our book The Devil Is In the Details: Mike Rypka and the Torchy's Tacos Story: https://a.co/d/96JXGWu Our BONUS RESOURCE for this episode includes Don's favorite quotes from today's episode and a reflection question so you can apply today's insights.  Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we're making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: https://books.forbes.com/don/  Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers these live and virtual presentations built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness.  Special thanks to Anthony Dickinson and Karson Hills for making this episode possible.

Homily for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

We are all his beloved sons and daughters; we must listen to Him, find our mission, and never lose hope in asking for His grace and mercy: Amen.

The most important piece of paper in your life isn't your diploma or your résumé — it's your baptismal certificate. This Sunday homily from January 11, 2026, reflects on the Gospel proclamation spoken over Jesus and spoken over each of us in baptism: “You are my beloved. With you I am well pleased.” Our identity is not earned. It is received. It was purchased at the cost of Christ's death, and it defines who we are and how we are called to live. May we ask for the grace to live the vocation won for us through baptism and the cross of Jesus Christ. ⸻

Sunday Worship for January 11, 2026, from Queen Anne Lutheran Church in Seattle, our 10:30 service— Pastor Dan Peterson; Cantor Kyle Haugen. Prelude—Chorale prelude: WIE SCHOEN LEUCHTET DER MORGENSTERN   (“O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright,” ELW 308); Johann Ludwig Krebs • Introit—Psalm 45:7, 1 • Gathering Hymn— O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright, (ELW 308) • First Reading— Isaiah 42:1-9 • Second Reading—Acts 10:34-43 • Gospel—Matthew 3:13-17 • Sermon—Rev. Dan Peterson, "Who Am I?" • Hymn of the Day—Come, Beloved of the Maker (ELW 306) • Distribution Hymn—I Come with Joy (ELW 482) • Sending Hymn —TWe Know that Christ Is Raisedl (ELW 449) • Postlude—Fanfare ; William Mathias ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link here to view the bulletin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying our worship recordings? Consider giving. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit this link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Froma biblical perspective, forgiveness is not a small thing. It is not a sideissue. It is at the very heart of the gospel. Without forgiveness, there is nosalvation, no peace with God, and no real freedom in life. The Bible says in Ephesians1:7,“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness ofsins, according to the riches of His grace.” Forgiveness is God's graciousact of removing our guilt, canceling our debt of sin, and restoring ourrelationship with Him—based entirely on what Jesus Christ has done for us onthe cross.Tobe forgiven means that God no longer holds my sin against me. He no longercondemns me. My record has been cleared, and my relationship with Him has beenrestored. Thatis why David could say in Psalm 32:1–2, “Blessed is he whosetransgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom theLORD does not impute iniquity.” That word blessed means deeplyjoyful, relieved, and at rest. There is no freedom like knowing God is nolonger against you. Now, how do we know we are forgiven? What are some of theevidences of forgiveness in our lives—mentally, spiritually, and emotionally?  First,there is mental evidence. When I am forgiven, I no longer live underconstant condemnation. I may remember my past, but I am no longer crushed byit. I believe God's Word over my feelings. Romans 8:1 tells us, “Thereis therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” Godsays in Isaiah 43:25, “I… am He who blots out your transgressions forMy own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” God is not saying Heforgets in the human sense, but that He no longer counts our sins against us.The debt has been paid.  Second,there is spiritual evidence. Forgiveness brings peace with God. Fear isreplaced with confidence. Prayer becomes open and honest. Worship becomesjoyful instead of heavy. Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, having beenjustified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Forgivenessrestores fellowship with God. We are no longer hiding. We are no longerrunning. We draw near to Him with full assurance of faith. Third,there is emotional evidence. Forgiveness brings relief instead ofconstant guilt. Gratitude replaces shame. Joy begins to return. David prayed inPsalm 51:12, “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation.”Forgivenessdoes not erase all consequences, but it restores joy, peace, and freedom in theheart. Nowlet's talk about forgiveness from another angle—forgiving others. Biblicalforgiveness does not mean forgetting, excusing the sin, or pretending it didnot hurt. Forgiveness is a decision to release someone from the debt they oweyou and to leave justice in God's hands. The Bible says in Romans 12:19,“Beloved, do not avenge yourselves… for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, Iwill repay,' says the Lord.” When I have truly forgiven someone, I am nolonger seeking revenge. I am no longer rehearsing the offense to fuel anger. Ican pray for them sincerely. I desire their good, not their harm. 1 Corinthians 13:5 says, “Love… keeps no record of wrongs.”That is how God forgives us. He does not shame us. He does not hold ourpast over our heads. He restores us to fellowship. Andabove all, we look to Jesus. As He hung on the cross in Luke 23:34,Jesus said, “Father, forgive them.”Forgivenessflows from grace, not from worthiness. Let me close with this thought. To knowthat my sins are forgiven means my past no longer defines me, my present isfilled with peace, and my future is secure in Christ. And when I trulyunderstand how much I have been forgiven, I find the grace to forgive others. Thatis why Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:32,“Be kind to one another,tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” MayGod help us to live in the freedom of His forgiveness—and to extend that samegrace to others. 

We explore how intimacy with God moves us from striving to overflow with Dr. Jodi Hook, former NorthStar teacher and author of Beloved Discipleship. Her stories, research, and practices help students hear God's voice, quiet perfectionism, and trust the future to Jesus.• turning a doctoral project into a practical guide for intimacy with God• hearing God through Scripture, silence, and playful attention• shifting from duty to delight in spiritual disciplines• perfectionism, shame, and the “beloved” identity in Christ• the “friend or foe” thought filter and spiritual armor• trusting God with decisions by walking step by step• the value of mentors, community, and remembrance

In this episode you'll hear about the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and the incredible words spoken from the heavens. Through him and with him and in him, they are meant for you as well.Readingshttps://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011126.cfmPhotoSt. Brendan arrives on the Isle of the Blessedhttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1EaK3yT6XfaZOWe2aXF-01mojbzudpfwc/view?usp=drivesdk

Today's Passage: 1 John 4:7-12Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.NOTES & LINKS:21 Days of Prayer & Fasting WebsiteSubscribe to the 21 Days of Prayer & Fasting NewsletterPDF Guide to Prayer & FastingAs Part of the 21 Days, we are committing to 24/7 prayer during this time. Sign up for a time slot here.

Episode Notes Message given on Sunday November 23, for our Thanksgiving Celebration.

This week, we continue our sermon series called Gifts from Jesus, exploring how Jesus first embedded himself in the community before the launch of his community. How do we turn to each other and lean into shared life as we name one another as Beloved in a world that tries to push us apart? 

The Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on Isaiah 42 (in which the Messiah is announced) and Matthew 3 (in which Jesus is baptized). God stakes his reputation on Jesus, who vindicates his Father's trust by accomplishing the salvation of sinners.

Beloved, are you suffering in some way now or have you recently?Has a friend left you? Is a job gone? Has a life change created turmoil, and you just don't see a way through?Join us as we continue our study in Romans chapter 8 today, as this passage in Romans 8:18 offers us GREAT hope:For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (RAR2026EP03)

Some people build careers.Others build trust (and an incredible career).Beloved return guest Dave Price joins us for a deeper conversation about what it means to show up — not just on television, but for people who need connection most.From decades as a trusted television weather forecaster to traveling overseas to entertain U.S. troops, Dave reflects on service, consistency, and why presence matters more than recognition. We talk about how those trips began, what stays with him long after he returns home, and why this work continues to matter so deeply to him.An absolute gift on a Monday morning — we even tested a few ideas we're thinking about for 2026.Not sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University

On this episode of The Aluna Experience Podcast, I talk to Lily, Aluna Entheoguide who shares her heart and wisdom in regards to her medicine path, supporting others on theirs, authenticity, and walking the medicine path with a partner. Lily shares the mindset needed to keep returning after difficult journeys and her devotion to her evolutionary path which means embracing the uncomfortable and stretching herself to continuously grow. She shares the immense benefits of expressing one's truth, having difficult conversations and finding ones authentic self. We explore her work as a medicine guide working with clients one on one, seeing the Divine in all people and her call to Goddess work. Alunahealingcenter.com@aluna_healing_centerLilywebber@yahoo.com@liliahaenaBrianahata.com@bri.anahata

The Rev. Joe C. Williams, Succentor Grace Cathedral San Francisco, CA January 11th, 2026   Isaiah 42:1-9 Psalm 29 Matthew 3:13-17

Delilah Saul is a filmmaker, journalist, and sex worker, and the founder of Outlaw Media. She is the creator and host of A Stripper's Guide Podcast, which has reached tens of thousands of listeners worldwide, and the director of the short documentary Beloved, an intimate exploration of sex workers' love lives and relationships. Through a queer, femme, sex worker–centered lens, Delilah's work examines how gender stigma, misogyny, and societal power structures shape personal relationships and civic life. Her projects are rooted in collaborative community research and focus on issues including partner and domestic violence, feminicide, and physical and social violence against sex workers. Delilah holds a B.A. in Anthropology from UMass Boston and a Master's degree in Engagement Journalism from CUNY's Newmark School. Her work bridges lived experience, rigorous research, and storytelling to challenge dominant narratives around sex work, intimacy, and autonomy. This episode is brought to you by Olipop, a new healthy brand of soda. Go to https://drinkolipop.com/ and use code Marcela15 at checkout to get 15% off your first order. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Shopify can help you take your business to the next level. Click HERE to set up your Shopify shop today and watch your business soar! This episode is brought to you by BranditScan, the best defese you have against social media fraud. Click HERE to get started with BranditScan today and get your first month for free. There is no better service to protect your social media accounts and your name and likeness. . This episode is brought to you by Skillshare. Click HERE to start exploring all the courses Skillshare has to offer, from drawing and music, to graphic design and marketing, start expanding your knowledge today. This episode is brought to you by Fiverr. Click HERE to start hiring professionals to help you in various areas and take your business to the next level. This episode is brought to you by PodMatch. Click HERE to bring your podcasting journey to the next level by getting set up's Only Fans  VIP Membership HERE Free Membership HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on January 11, 2025. The readings are from Is 42:1-4, 6-7, Ps 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10 & Mt 3:13-17. — Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCytcnEsuKXBI-xN8mv9mkfw

Matthew 3:13-17   Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”

DateJanuary 11, 2026SynopsisIn this sermon, we dive into the disruptive power of Jesus's baptism, revealing how it offers a new imagination for how we see the world. Jesus steps into the water to redefine righteousness—it's not about maintaining purity or order, but about radical solidarity that shatters systems of control and exclusion. By claiming our first, revolutionary name as Beloved, we embody a vision in which justice flows like a river and are empowered to take a bold next step toward the healing of God's world.ReferencesScripture: Matthew 3:13–17About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

The post You Are My Beloved appeared first on Common Thread Church.

Pastor Jae examines how a “servant song” from Isaiah offers clear reasons why Jesus is “Beloved” to his Father and explores what Jesus's baptism means for us. Speaker: Pastor Jae Newman Part of the series “Season of Epiphany”

Find out more about Ramp Church Manchester by visiting ⁠https://ramp.church/mcr⁠If you would like to partner in giving, please visit: ⁠https://ramp.church/mcr/giving

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesI. Introduction: The Word We All Need“Please” is a magic word — but there is a deeper one.An ancient word written into the fabric of the universe.Without it, we wither; with it, we flourish.Spoken by the Father, received through the Son.II. Jesus at the JordanJesus comes to John for baptism.John resists; Jesus insists — “to fulfill all righteousness.”Jesus' baptism marks the beginning of his public ministry.III. Why Jesus Was BaptizedIdentification — Jesus stands with sinners.Initiation — Baptism becomes Spirit-filled and ongoing.Inauguration — God's Kingdom is breaking in.IV. Heaven RespondsHeavens opened — God reveals who Jesus is.Spirit descends like a dove — humility, new creation.Voice from heaven — the climax.“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”V. The Magic Word: BelovedSpoken publicly by the Father.Defines Jesus' identity before his work begins.From all eternity, the Son is beloved.VI. Beloved — And UsWe all long to hear this word.Human love is good, but not enough.In Christ, the Father now speaks it over us.Not earned. Not lost. Not performance-based.2 Corinthians 5:21 — Jesus gives us his righteousness.VII. InvitationHave you received this word?Through faith in Christ, you are God's beloved.Feelings may lag — the truth remains.Receive it. Rest in it. Live from it.Discussion Questions1. When does Jesus baptize us "with the Holy Spirit"? When we are baptized? When we place our faith in Jesus? At a later time, when we receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit?2. Can one have assurance in being beloved by God apart from faith in Christ and what he has done? Why or why not?3. What difference does it make to a person's identity to live as God's beloved?4. In what ways do you personally experience the reality of being beloved? What gets in the way of it for you?Bonus - Watch this music video: Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

You Are My Beloved Child in Whom I Am Pleased Fr. Filipski

13 Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" 15 But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw God's Spirit descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from the heavens said, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased." 

First Reading: Isaiah 42: 1-9  Second Reading: Matthew 3: 13-17    Sermon: The Beloved  Preaching: Pastor Jen  

An unhurried daily meditation using the Bible, prayer, and reflection led by Pastor Jon Ciccarelli, Discipleship Pastor of Crosswalk Church in Redlands, CA, and Director of Discipleship for Crosswalk Global.If you are enjoying the podcast please go to Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify and share your rating and a review as your input will help bring awareness of this discipleship resource to more listeners around the world.To learn more about Abide and discipleship go to www.crosswalkvillage.com/discipleshipPlease feel free to reach out to us at jon@crosswalkvillage.com any time with your comments and questions. Thanks and blessings!

New Q&A: Is there any Minecraft mechanic that feels like it's not quite finished yet?One Block Challenge!THEME: Blocks that could be mobs!Email me your idea or leave it on the Discord. Only give me one idea. Provide the name of the block and any function it has. Keep your descriptions simple and to the point. The winners will be announced in a future episode.LinksDiscord: https://discord.gg/jcTmQteGBsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/digstraightdownpodcastEmail: digstraightdowncast@gmail.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/RebelJC_92YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/RebelJCMusic: Above and Beyond, MilesRocksAlotSoulscraft: https://rebeljc.itch.io/soulscraftAdventures in Lantern Valley - A Minecraft Story Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Kw2VzPrWt5bf0UOiHuW05?si=YblJgRW_TzO_vjUj4N2t8Q

Married man in Italy sues restaurant after their TikTok promo video exposed his secret love affair. Woman arrested swimming nude in neighbor's private pond claiming she was, "trying to be a mermaid". Beloved walrus penis was stolen from behind the bar in a New Jersey cheesesteak place. // Weird AF News is the only daily weird news podcast in the world. Weird news 5 days/week and on Friday it's only Floridaman. SUPPORT by joining the Weird AF News Patreon http://patreon.com/weirdafnews - OR buy Jonesy a coffee at http://buymeacoffee.com/funnyjones Buy MERCH: https://weirdafnews.merchmake.com/ - Check out the official website https://WeirdAFnews.com and FOLLOW host Jonesy at http://instagram.com/funnyjones - wants Jonesy to come perform standup comedy in your city? Fill out the form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvYbm8Wgz3Oc2KSDg0-C6EtSlx369bvi7xdUpx_7UNGA_fIw/viewform

In this episode, Gaby Salib shares how Henri Nouwen's spiritual wisdom shaped her faith, vocation, and sense of belovedness amid the pressures of academia and early adulthood. Drawing from her Coptic Orthodox roots and participation in the 30 Under 30 cohort, Gaby reflects on ecumenical friendship, mentoring across traditions, motherhood, and her creative project of children's books inspired by Life of the Beloved. Together with Wendy VanderWal Martin, the conversation explores longing for home, hospitality, and finding freedom and identity as God's beloved in a wounded and divided world. 2026 Conference Website - https://www.conference.henrinouwen.org/ Sponsor 30 > 30 https://www.henrinouwen.org/give Register For January's Book Club for Reaching Out https://henrinouwensociety.ticketspice.com/january-book-club-reaching-out ___________ Book Discussed: Reaching Out https://amzn.to/37BuyjZ (US) https://amzn.to/2AxxCBJ (CAD) ___________ SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: henrinouwen.org/donate/ * SIGN UP FOR FREE DAILY E-MEDITATIONS: henrinouwen.org/meditation/ * MORE FREE RESOURCES: henrinouwen.org/ * FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/henrinouwensociety/ FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/nouwensociety/