Podcast appearances and mentions of Bethel Lutheran Church

What does it mean to “fear the Lord”? For many of us, the word fear brings to mind anxiety, dread, or being afraid. But in the Hebrew understanding, the “fear of the Lord” means something much deeper and richer: reverence, awe, humility, trust, and a proper sense of wonder before the holiness and goodness of God. In this episode of Walking with God, Pat Barry and Pastor Jeff Quinto reflect on the biblical teaching that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Together, they explore how reverence for God shapes the way we live, the choices we make, and the wisdom we seek. Rather than pushing us away from God, this holy awe draws us closer—helping us walk with greater faith, humility, and trust. Join Pat and Pastor Jeff for a thoughtful conversation about what true wisdom looks like when we begin with God. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto as individuals and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria! - To God Alone Be the Glory!

In this episode of "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast," we talk about the Garden of Eden the way the original hearers would have understood it.  We think we are so sophisticated and modern, yet we often miss the point of the lesson from this and other passages.  Hear what the story would have taught the ancient Hebrew people who first heard it. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto as individuals and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria! - To God Alone Be the Glory!

In this episode of "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast," Pat and Jeff talk about fasting.  It seems particularly relevant in this Lenten season.  Lots of people are fasting for lent, but for those of us who do not fully understand it, what does it mean and what is its ultimate purpose? Find out what Pat and Jeff think in this episode. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto as individuals and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria! - To God Alone Be the Glory!

Which is it?  Is Christianity affirmational or transformational?  Is it possible it is both?  Listen to this episode of "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast, and find out what Pat and Jeff think. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto talk about "The Prosperity Gospel" in this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

This episode of "Walking with God, Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto's Podcast" is based on Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus' parable of the sheep and the goats. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Have you ever asked yourself, "Does God have a gender?"  In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff talk about their ideas as to God's gender.  Tell us what you think in the comments. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast, Pat and Jeff talk about the fruits of the spirit and how to embody these fruits in your everyday life.  Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat and Jeff talk about Ignatian Contemplation, an imaginative way to read the Bible in which you place yourself in the Bible story you are reading. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

This episode is a sermon I gave at my home church of Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino California on "Calling" 1 Samuel 16:1-13 John 9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Pat and Jeff talk about discernment in everyday life as a Christian in this episode of Walking with God. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Join us today as we speak with Dr. Mark Granquist and discuss his new book, A History of Christianity in America. Dr. Mark A. Granquist is Professor of the History of Christianity at Luther Seminary, a position he has held since 2007. Prior to this he taught in the Religion Department at St Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota (1992-2000) and at Gustavus Adolphus College, St Peter, Minnesota (2000-2007).Dr. Granquist has served in parish ministry or Lutheran higher education since his ordination in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America in 1988. He was pastor of youth and education at Bethel Lutheran Church, Rochester, Minn., 1988-1992, and has served several times as an interim pastor in local congregations.A 1979 graduate of St Olaf College, Dr. Granquist received his M.Div. from Yale University Divinity School in 1984, and his Ph.D. degree from the University of Chicago Divinity School in 1992.He serves as editor of the Luther Seminary journal “Word & World,” as editor of the “Journal of the Lutheran Historical Conference,” and has been active with the journal “Lutheran Quarterly.”

This episode of the "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast" is based on the Great Commission, Matthew 28:16-20, and talks about how we are called to make a difference in the world. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Have you ever asked yourself whether or not you really believe in Jesus Christ?  It's a fair question with an answer that affects our place in eternity.  Hear Pat and Jeff talk about their belief in this episode of "Walking with God." Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto talk about what it means to have a the "Fruits of the Spirit" in this episode of "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat and Jeff start off the New Year with a message on mortality.  Mortality - huh? Listen to this episode of Walking with God and see what they have to say. Please like and subscribe so more people will have access to these podcasts. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff talk about what is actually important.  Is it money?  Is it recognition?   Listen to this episode and find out.   Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church.   Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat Barry and Rev. Jeff Quinto discuss "Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged" in this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's podcast. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

In Matthew 24, Jesus makes it clear — “. . . concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” So why do people keep trying to predict it? In this episode of Walking with God, Pastor Jeff explores what Scripture really teaches about the Second Coming — and why our focus shouldn't be on when Christ returns, but on how we live while we wait. Whether His return comes in the next minute or the next millennium, discover what it means to be faithful, watchful, and ready. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

St. Paul encourages Christians to live in light of the reality that we have been raised with Christ. Rather than seeking the things of man, Christians set their minds on the things taught by Christ, because He sits at the right hand of God. We have died to the life of the sinful flesh, and our lives are hidden with Christ. We have this life truly by faith right now, waiting and praying for the Day when we have it by sight when Christ our life appears.  Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Colossians 3:1-4.  To learn more about Bethel Lutheran, visit blcbcs.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle's letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

The idea that we should "love your enemies" is so profound that Pat and Jeff decided to continue this important conversation in this episode of "Walking with God." Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

We are told to "love your enemies," but how can we do that when it seems to fly against every impulse we have?  Find out what Pat and Jeff have to say about it in this episode of "Walking with God." Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff explore the meaning and importance of the Sabbath — not just as a commandment, but as a gift from God. They openly admit that while they know how vital rest and renewal are, actually living it out is another story. Join them as they share honest reflections, a few confessions, and practical steps they're taking to better honor the Sabbath — stepping back from busyness, reconnecting with God, and finding peace in His presence. Please "like" and subscribe to this podcast so more people will get access to these important conversations. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat and Jeff complete their two-part podcast on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's The Cost of Discipleship. In this episode, they talk about the importance of faith with obedience and obedience with faith, or as Bonhoeffer writes, “Only those who obey can believe, and only those who believe can obey" (Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship (p. 70). Touchstone. Kindle Edition). The problem with being obedient to Jesus for most of us is, as Pat says, "we want a savior, but we don't want a Lord.  In other words, we want to be saved, but we don't want to be told what to do. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast," Pat and Jeff talk about getting a glimpse of God.  What does it mean?  Is God always with us or just occasionally.  You can probably guess the answer, but listen to this episode and see what Pat and Jeff have to say. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of "Walking with God, Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto's podcast," Pat and Jeff talk about what it means to be "all in" for the Lord, Jesus Christ. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

This episode is a sermon that I preached at my home church, Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino California. It was preached on Trinity Sunday and Father's Day. The topic is the Trinity. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's episode of Walking with God, we explore a thoughtful and sometimes sensitive question: Is there a "right" way for Christians to be laid to rest—burial or cremation? Pat and Jeff reflect on Scripture, tradition, and personal experience as they wrestle with this important topic. What do you think? Tune in and join the conversation. Note: The views expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the official positions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ, Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

Hear what Pat and Jeff have to say about God's provision and how God's purpose will be done even when we do not understand how. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of "Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast" we ask the question, "Do we really need Jesus?"  You probably already know the answer, but many people in our world are unsure and many do not see any need for Jesus.  To us the answer is clear. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff sit down with their friend, Pastor Manoj Magar, to explore his inspiring ministry, Rays of Hope, serving some of the most vulnerable communities in Mumbai, India. Hear how God is working powerfully through Pastor Manoj to bring light, love, and lasting change.

 Don Pavek provides information about the Bethel Lutheran Church annual garage sale to be held Friday, May 16, 7am-6pm, and Saturday, May 17, 8am-noon. 

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's podcast, we talk about Dietrich Bonhoeffer and introduce the idea of "Costly Grace." Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

The Gospel is God's work through Christ's death and resurrection for the sake of our forgiveness, life, and salvation. This Gospel is lavishly generous with His gifts: spoken Word, Baptism, the Sacrament of the Altar, the Office of the Keys, and the mutual consolation of the saints. By His grace, God provides these gifts, so that His people might receive this undeserved salvation. Rev. Joshua Willadsen, pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church, Fort Smith, AR and Trinity Lutheran Church, Sallisaw, OK, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the Gospel and Holy Baptism. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

In this episode, Pat and Jeff dive into a 2023 study from the Barna Group, a leading research organization focused on faith, culture, leadership, and generational trends. The conversation centers around Barna's criteria for defining a Biblical Worldview—what it includes, how it's measured, and why it matters. Pat and Jeff reflect on the study's findings and explore where they—and perhaps you—might align within that framework. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

Pat and Jeff talk about Christian Ethics and the Guinness family's living their Christian faith over generations. This podcast was inspired by Leviticus 19:18 and the book The Search for God and Guinness: A Biography of the Beer that Changed the World by Stephen Mansfield. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

The Gospel of John starts with "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God."  What does it mean? Find out what Pat and Jeff say in this Walking with God episode. Please "like" and subscribe to this podcast. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!  

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff talk about the things that bring us together as Christians. Please "like" and subscribe to this podcast. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Jeff  

Pat and Jeff talk about anxiety in this episode of Walking with God. Please "like" and subscribe to this podcast so more people will have access to these bi-weekly devotions. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Soli Deo Gloria!

In this episode of the Walking with God podcast, Pat Barry and Rev. Jeff Quinto talk about the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the third of three parables in Luke 15. Soli Deo Gloria! Note: the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church.

Pat Barry and Rev. Jeff Quinto talk about the parables of the lost in the first of two episodes on the three parables in Luke 15. Soli Deo Gloria! Note: the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church.  

Pat and Jeff discuss what we can do in the New Year to make us better disciples of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Please "like" and subscribe to this podcast so more people can access them. Soli Deo Gloria! Note: the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church.

This episode is a sermon given at my home church Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino California on verses from Luke and from Colossians. The Luke verses are The Boy Jesus at the Temple. The title is "Put on Love." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this chapter, the LORD first instructs His people in how they will make water for purification, and second, He describes situations for that water's use. A red heifer without defect is sacrificed and burned along with other specific items in order to make ashes for use in the water for purification. Such water is used especially when an Israelite has become unclean due to contact with death. The LORD graciously provides this means to enable His people to draw close to Him and His holiness. The combination of a sacrifice with water points forward to Holy Baptism, and the reality of the cleansing provided by this water reminds us that the word of the LORD is the true power to bring His gifts to us.  Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 19:1-22.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life. 

This episode is a sermon that I gave at my home church which is Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, CA about the calling of David. 1 Samuel 15:34 - 16:13 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As the Persian kingdom begins its dominance over Babylon, Daniel is now an old man. Nonetheless, he is given a distinguished place in the reign of Darius. Out of jealousy toward Daniel, other officials look to oust him by means of his faithfulness to the LORD. They trick Darius into making a law requiring idolatrous prayer, and as they expect, Daniel continues his faithful prayer to the LORD. Backed into a corner by his own law, Darius sends Daniel into the den of lions. Yet the LORD is faithful to His servant Daniel and shuts the mouths of the lions; it is the persecutors of His Church who end up judged for their enmity toward the true God. Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Daniel 6:1-28. "God's Kingdom Endures Forever” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Daniel. Although God's people were exiled in Babylon, the LORD remained the true King. He strengthened His people for faithful confession in the face of idolatry, and through prophetic visions and dreams revealed that He would establish His everlasting Kingdom. This points to Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, who reigns over us and all creation.

This episode is a sermon that I gave at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino about about the coming of the wise men and the story of Epiphany. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Corinthians 16:1-12. St. Paul gives the Corinthians a concrete way to be steadfast and abounding in the work of the Lord as he describes how they can participate in the offering to support the saints in Jerusalem. According to the means God has given, whether rich or poor, each member of the congregation can set aside a gift to build up the body of Christ. As St. Paul discusses the way this gift will make its way to Jerusalem, he also lays out his own travel plans, recognizing that he must proclaim the Word of God wherever the Lord opens a door. St. Paul also gives instruction and information concerning the travel plans of two of his fellow workers in the Gospel, Timothy and Apollos. “Nothing But Christ Crucified” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the epistle of 1 Corinthians. In response to correspondence from the Christians in Corinth and reports about matters arising in the congregation, St. Paul writes to address various matters of Christian faith and life. Throughout it all, he directs our attention to the power and wisdom of God for our salvation: Christ crucified.

The Rev. Dr. Benjamin Squires, pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church in Gurnee, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 6. Micah 6 captures a profound dialogue between God and humanity, as the prophet challenges the people of Israel to remember their covenant with God. The passage begins with God's plea for the people to recall His faithfulness and righteousness, contrasting it with their disobedience and lack of gratitude. YHWH emphasizes that He desires justice, kindness, and humility rather than ritualistic offerings. The chapter concludes with a reminder of God's expectations: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him. Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.

This episode is a sermon that I preached at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, California. It is about Romans 8 and the struggle between the flesh and the spirit. It is also about zombies. First Reading Genesis 25:19-3419These are the descendants of Isaac, Abraham's son: Abraham was the father of Isaac, 20and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah, daughter of Bethuel the Aramean of Paddan-aram, sister of Laban the Aramean. 21Isaac prayed to the LORD for his wife, because she was barren; and the LORD granted his prayer, and his wife Rebekah conceived. 22The children struggled together within her; and she said, “If it is to be this way, why do I live?” So she went to inquire of the LORD. 23And the LORD said to her,
     “Two nations are in your womb,
          and two peoples born of you shall be divided;
     the one shall be stronger than the other,
          the elder shall serve the younger.”
24When her time to give birth was at hand, there were twins in her womb. 25The first came out red, all his body like a hairy mantle; so they named him Esau. 26Afterward his brother came out, with his hand gripping Esau's heel; so he was named Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them.27When the boys grew up, Esau was a skillful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man, living in tents. 28Isaac loved Esau, because he was fond of game; but Rebekah loved Jacob.29Once when Jacob was cooking a stew, Esau came in from the field, and he was famished. 30Esau said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stuff, for I am famished!” (Therefore he was called Edom.) 31Jacob said, “First sell me your birthright.” 32Esau said, “I am about to die; of what use is a birthright to me?” 33Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. 34Then Jacob gave Esau bread and lentil stew, and he ate and drank, and rose and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright. Second Reading Romans 8:1-111There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do: by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and to deal with sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4so that the just requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7For this reason the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law — indeed it cannot, 8and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.9But you are not in the flesh; you are in the Spirit, since the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you. Gospel Matthew 13:1-9, 18-231That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2Such great crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat there, while the whole crowd stood on the beach. 3And he told them many things in parables, saying: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. 4And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. 5Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. 6But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. 7Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. 8Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9Let anyone with ears listen!”18“Hear then the parable of the sower. 19When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in the heart; this is what was sown on the path. 20As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; 21yet such a person has no root, but endures only for a while, and when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, that person immediately falls away. 22As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the lure of wealth choke the word, and it yields nothing. 23But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.