Podcasts about blessed are

What happens when we stop thinking of art as something created in isolation and start seeing it as a way to build community, nurture hope, and create change?In this episode of Holy Shenanigans, recorded live at Wild Goose Festival 2026, Tara talks with artist and creative visionary Sarah Skinner, Lumen Solis at Instagram, about the transformative power of art. She shares the story of the Witnessing Wall, a collaborative art project that grew from grief and resistance into a living expression of connection, hope, and beloved community.Together, Tara and Lumen explore what happens when we let go of control, invite others into the creative process, and allow our art—and ourselves—to ripple out into the world. They talk about creativity as a spiritual and even liturgical practice, the courage to face difficult realities, and the unexpected ways community can catch us when life gets hard.And, of course, there are a few holy shenanigans along the way—including a goose with wings and bells.You don't have to think of yourself as an artist to join this conversation. You simply have to be willing to make something beautiful, share your gifts, and discover what happens when creativity calls us back into community.Blessed Are the Burned-OutApr 7, 2025Written By Sarah SkinnerBefore the palms, before the cross, before the sunrise—this is for you.For the hands tending Sacred Refuge,for those who feel they must be more than human—this is your invitation to pause.To remember that you are holy.That you are human.That you are held.In my work in ministry,I have walked alongside hundreds of pastors and church workers.And I know:You are tired.This blessing is one small offering in return—a moment of restoration in the Holy Currency of Wellness.A reminder that you, too, are part of the ecosystem of grace.Let me take your hands, and place this blessing in them.Blessed are the burned-out,the ones with sermon notes in the margins of bulletins,who haven't sat through a full worship service in yearsbecause they're always making it happen for someone else.Blessed are the ones who stayed late to fold bulletins,to run through sound checks, to clean up candle wax—so someone else could experience sacredness.Blessed are the ones who can't cry during the Good Friday servicebecause they know they have to lead the Easter one.Blessed are the cracked-voiced singers,the undercaffeinated liturgists,the ones whose hearts are full of beautyand whose bodies are just so tired.Blessed are the pastors who write resurrection sermonswhile quietly grieving the loss no one else knows they're carrying.Blessed are the ones who bring communion to others,not remembering the last time someone blessed them with bread.Blessed are you—in your imperfection, your overwhelm, your quiet ache.You are not failing.You are not alone.You are not unseen.You are standing at the edge of something holy.And so—before the week begins,before you take up basin and towel,before you preach the cross and sing the tomb open—Come.Not as leader. Not as shepherd.But simply as you.Breathe.Be held.Let this blessing carry you for once.You do not have to resurrect the world.Just remain. Just be. Just breathe.The presence of the Holy One is already here.You are not the tomb's keeper.You are not the dawn's engine.You are the one the Holy One would sit besidein the garden—before the palms, before the cross, before the sunrise—just to say:“You are enough.Let me hold your hand awhile.”Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary's Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

In this episode, Kristen sits down with author and creative guide Jacob Nordby to explore how creativity can become a pathway to healing, self-discovery, and greater emotional well-being. Together, they discuss why so many people feel disconnected from their creativity, how shame and fear of judgment can block self-expression, and how practices like journaling can help us reconnect with who we really are. You will learn: How creativity can support emotional healing, reduce anxiety, and help you reconnect with yourself. Why shame, criticism, and fear of rejection can block your creative expression—and how to create safety as you begin opening up again. A simple three-question journaling practice to help you understand how you feel, identify what you need, and reconnect with what you want to create. The difference between your ego-driven persona and your authentic self—and why self-discovery must come before true self-expression. How creativity can help you move beyond simply healing from past wounds and toward greater joy, freedom, wholeness, and connection with who you truly are. Support the Close the Chapter podcast by checking out Jacob Nordby's powerful books using the Amazon affiliate links below. When you purchase through these links, a small portion goes toward supporting the show—at no extra cost to you: Books by Jacob Nordby: 1. The Creative Cure: How Finding and Freeing Your Inner Artist Can Heal Your Life https://amzn.to/4heSvjq 2. Blessed Are the Weird: A Manifesto for Creatives https://amzn.to/4bzeIHN 3. The Divine Arsonist: A Tale of Awakening https://amzn.to/43QYPKQ Jacob Norby's Book Recommendations:   1. Belonging: Remembering Ourselves Home   2. A Thousand Mornings: Poem   Subscribe HERE and get a free 5-day journal to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. Connect with Kristen: Get Kristen's newsletter, packed with tangible tools, resources, and inspiration Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Kristen on Instagram   Kristen's TikTok   Have Kristen Speak at Your Event  Disclaimer This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.      

Got questions about Christianity you're almost afraid to say out loud? Doubting your faith can feel especially lonely when everyone at church seems so stinkin' certain. Brant Hansen, author of Blessed Are the Misfits, joins Dave and Ann Wilson for an unpolished conversation about skepticism, introverts, uncomfortable questions, and belonging when you don't fit the Christian mold. Because stuffing your doubts isn't exactly making them disappear. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Got questions about Christianity you're almost afraid to say out loud? Doubting your faith can feel especially lonely when everyone at church seems so stinkin' certain. Brant Hansen, author of Blessed Are the Misfits, joins Dave and Ann Wilson for an unpolished conversation about skepticism, introverts, uncomfortable questions, and belonging when you don't fit the Christian mold. Because stuffing your doubts isn't exactly making them disappear. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

You pray. Read your Bible. Show up at church. And God still seems … crickets. When God feels far away, does that mean your faith is broken—or that you are? Brant Hansen, author of Blessed Are the Misfits, gets candid about skepticism, emotional wiring, and our all-too-human pressure to manufacture spiritual experiences. What holds your faith together when your feelings have approximately nothing useful to report? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

You pray. Read your Bible. Show up at church. And God still seems … crickets. When God feels far away, does that mean your faith is broken—or that you are? Brant Hansen, author of Blessed Are the Misfits, gets candid about skepticism, emotional wiring, and our all-too-human pressure to manufacture spiritual experiences. What holds your faith together when your feelings have approximately nothing useful to report? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

A desire to help people in poverty can collide with an equally good desire to give wisely, protect your family, and avoid causing more harm. How can you respond with real mercy and generosity without ignoring wisdom, dignity, or the risk of getting it wrong? MEET YOUR GUIDE: Dr. Pete Smith is a pastor and author of *Remember the Poor: Cultivating a Heart of Generosity*. Shaped by decades of pastoral ministry, church planting in Southern Maryland, work with homeless shelters and incarcerated people, and a Doctor of Ministry from Reformed Theological Seminary, Pete has spent years wrestling with how Christians and churches can care for people in poverty with both mercy and wisdom. Pete argues that poverty is often deeper than a lack of money. Broken relationships, isolation, lost social capital, trauma, and limited opportunity can leave people needing time, community, dignity, and trustworthy relationships as much as financial help. Drawing from hard-earned mistakes and acts of hospitality, he encourages Christians to listen before assuming they know what someone needs, to act prudently without letting fear become paralysis, and to lean toward mercy when the right response is unclear. By the end, you may see generosity less as solving someone else's problem and more as faithfully remembering your neighbor through relationship, hospitality, opportunity, and thoughtful action. WHAT YOU'LL GAIN: How to help people in poverty without letting fear paralyze you Why poverty often requires relationship, not just financial assistance How listening preserves dignity and reveals what someone actually needs Why mercy and prudence can work together in generous decisions How increased wealth can quietly distance you from people in need Practical ways to intentionally remember the poor in everyday life HIGHLIGHTS: “I would much rather err on the side of mercy and helping, even if it's ham-handed and doesn't maybe work out the way we would like.” “When in doubt, give.” “Default to mercy. Don't withhold good from the person to whom it is due when it's with you and you can do it.” “Remembering in Scripture is always connected to activity. It's never simply just recalling.” “The number one thing I would argue is that poverty is really poverty of relationship. It's spiritual poverty.” “What people need are time with others, connections, community.” “The person needs your time. They need relationship, and they need you to listen.” “If you listen long enough, you'll actually start to hear, ‘I start to now see how I might help.'” “Treat them with dignity and respect, no different from how we would like to be treated.” “The Scripture says, ‘Love the stranger.'” “If you're not going to live among the poor, you do have to intentionally remember them.” “Money in a savings account doesn't do anybody any good. It might give you some peace of mind, but that's not why this money is there. This money is to meet need.” “If you ask God to give you eyes to see, you'll begin to see.” PEOPLE, BOOKS, AND ORGS: Remember the Poor: Cultivating a Heart of Generosity by Peter Smith Navigators A Candle in the Window Hospitality Network BIBLE REFERENCES: Luke 9:23 | Take Up Your Cross “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'” Psalm 41 | Blessed Is He Who Considers the Poor Psalm 112 | The Generous Righteous Proverbs 11:24 | Generosity Grows “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” Proverbs 14:21 | Blessed Are the Generous “Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.” Proverbs 14:31 | Honoring the Creator “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” Psalm 72 | The Righteous King Defends the Poor Amos 5:24 | Justice Like Waters “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” Micah 6:8 | Justice, Mercy, Humility “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Luke 10:25-37 | The Good Samaritan Matthew 25:31-46 | The Sheep and the Goats Luke 14:12-14 | Invite Those Who Cannot Repay “He said also to the man who had invited him, ‘When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.'” Proverbs 19:17 | Lending to the Lord “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Galatians 2:10 | Remember the Poor “Only, they asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.” Ephesians 4:28 | Work in Order to Give “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.” KEEP EXPLORING Discover more conversations, ideas, and resources to help you think intentionally about generosity, stewardship, and living with an eternal perspective. Visit Finish Line Pledge →

Everyone else seems to feel God. Worship moves them. Prayer lights them up. Meanwhile, your faith feels flatter than a three-day-old Coke. If you're wondering, “Why don't I feel close to God?” Brant Hansen, author of Blessed Are the Misfits, gets refreshingly honest about faith for people who don't fit the emotional Christian mold. Are you spiritually defective—or have we confused certain personalities and feelings with what genuine faith is supposed to look like? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Everyone else seems to feel God. Worship moves them. Prayer lights them up. Meanwhile, your faith feels flatter than a three-day-old Coke. If you're wondering, “Why don't I feel close to God?” Brant Hansen, author of Blessed Are the Misfits, gets refreshingly honest about faith for people who don't fit the emotional Christian mold. Are you spiritually defective—or have we confused certain personalities and feelings with what genuine faith is supposed to look like? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Blessed Are the Peacemakers: What Jesus Really Meant (Beatitudes Study: Matthew 5:9–12) Thomas Fretwell continues his Sermon on the Mount series through the Beatitudes, focusing on “Blessed are the peacemakers” and warning that it is often misused in partisan politics, social commentary, and pacifist arguments. He explains the biblical meaning of peace (eirene/shalom) as reconciliation—first between God and man through Christ's cross—and then as Spirit-enabled unity among believers, citing passages such as 2 Corinthians 5, John 14, Colossians 1 and 3, Ephesians 4 and 6, and Hebrews 12. He argues that peacemaking flows from a pure, undivided heart and marks true “sons of God,” illustrating with Horatio Spafford's hymn and Eric Liddell's witness. The episode concludes by connecting peacemaking to inevitable persecution for righteousness and rejoicing in heavenly reward. Become a supporter and get unlimited questions turned into podcasts at: www.patreon.com/theologyandapologetics YouTube Channel: Theology & Apologetics www.youtube.com/channel/UChoiZ46uyDZZY7W1K9UGAnw TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@dr.fretwell?_t=ZN-8w8NXIFTHkc&_r=1 Instagram: www.instagram.com/theology.apologetics Websites: www.ezrafoundation.org www.theologyandapologetics.com

Blessed Are the Pure in Heart (Matthew 5:8) | Undivided Devotion & Seeing God | Sermon on the Mount Thomas Fretwell continues a study of the Beatitudes in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, focusing on Matthew 5:8: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” He explains that “blessed” means happy and contrasts Pharisaic external righteousness with the inward righteousness of kingdom citizens. “Pure” is presented primarily as “unmixed” or single-minded devotion rather than sinless perfection, warning that divided hearts lead to spiritual instability and loss of joy. Using Solomon's life, along with passages from Psalms, Kings, Chronicles, Proverbs, Job, and 1 John, he argues that God strongly supports those whose hearts are wholly His and that purity of heart brings spiritual sight now—greater intimacy and awareness of God—and the future hope of seeing Christ face-to-face. Become a supporter and get unlimited questions turned into podcasts at: www.patreon.com/theologyandapologetics YouTube Channel: Theology & Apologetics www.youtube.com/channel/UChoiZ46uyDZZY7W1K9UGAnw TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@dr.fretwell?_t=ZN-8w8NXIFTHkc&_r=1 Instagram: www.instagram.com/theology.apologetics Websites: www.ezrafoundation.org www.theologyandapologetics.com

Artist, writer and cartoonist Sophie Killingley joins us to talk about life, family, faith and the insights behind her book Blessed Are the Neurodivergent: Embracing Neurodiversity as a reflection of God's creativity within the church. Known for her distinctive illustrations and thoughtful reflections on autism, creativity and Christian spirituality, Sophie shares her story and explains why embracing difference can be a blessing rather than a barrier.

Blessed Are the Merciful (Matthew 5:7) | Mercy, Forgiveness & the Heart of God Thomas Fretwell continues a study of the Beatitudes, drawing from Puritan Thomas Watson's commentary to highlight the Sermon on the Mount as a guide toward the “Holy of Holies.” After reviewing earlier Beatitudes as a progression describing sanctification and kingdom character, he focuses on Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy,” noting mercy is both duty and reward. He defines biblical mercy as compassion and lovingkindness aimed at relieving misery, closely linked to forgiveness and rooted in God's love, citing passages from Titus, 1 Peter, Hebrews, Ephesians, Psalms, Lamentations, and Luke. He connects mercy to the mercy seat and the cross, contrasts it with a cancel-culture spirit, and applies it practically through forgiveness, restoring fallen believers with gentleness, charity, and especially merciful speech by rejecting slander and abusive talk.

Jesus' Sermon on the Mount opens with a startling observation: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Flying in the face of human reasoning, Jesus asserts that it is those who humble themselves who will find their way to His kingdom. This coming Sunday, in a sermon entitled “Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit,” we will discuss how one develops this disposition and how to keep pride from blinding us to the great promise Jesus has made.Recorded on August 16, 2026

Blessed Are the ForgivenA Maskil[a] of David.32 Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,    whose sin is covered.2 Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity,    and in whose spirit there is no deceit.3 For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away    through my groaning all day long.4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;    my strength was dried up[b] as by the heat of summer. Selah5 I acknowledged my sin to you,    and I did not cover my iniquity;I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”    and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah6 Therefore let everyone who is godly    offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found;surely in the rush of great waters,    they shall not reach him.7 You are a hiding place for me;    you preserve me from trouble;    you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;    I will counsel you with my eye upon you.9 Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding,    which must be curbed with bit and bridle,    or it will not stay near you.10 Many are the sorrows of the wicked,    but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord.11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous,    and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!+++For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 3:30 am and 7:30 am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on KSPD 94.5 FM and 790 AM Boise's Solid Talk in the Treasure Valley,  Idaho, USA.If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them.  If you enjoy The Gospel for Life, please give us a rating and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. That helps us a lot!Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://www.790kspd.com/gospel-for-life/to donate on line https://www.reformationboise.com/donate

Blessed Are the Peacemakers | The Beatitudes Series | Journey ChurchWhat does it really mean to be a peacemaker?In this episode, we continue our Beatitudes series by exploring one of Jesus' most challenging teachings: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." While our culture often defines peace as simply avoiding conflict, Jesus points us toward something much deeper—shalom: wholeness, reconciliation, healing, and restoration.You'll discover why biblical peacemaking isn't about keeping everyone comfortable, but about courageously pursuing truth, mercy, and reconciliation. Whether you're navigating conflict in your family, workplace, church, or friendships, this practical message will help you become the kind of person who reflects the heart of Christ.In this episode you'll learn:The difference between peacekeeping and peacemakingWhy avoiding conflict isn't the same as biblical peaceThe meaning of shalom in ScriptureHow Jesus modeled truth and grace togetherFive practical ways to become a peacemaker in everyday lifeIf this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little more peace today.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to the Beatitude of the Peacemaker02:00 – What Jesus meant by "Blessed are the peacemakers"04:30 – Why our culture misunderstands peace09:00 – The danger of labels, outrage, and division15:00 – The Christmas Truce of World War I19:00 – The biblical meaning of Shalom25:00 – Peace, justice, and truth30:30 – Peacekeepers vs. peacemakers35:15 – "As far as it depends on you…" (Romans 12)39:45 – Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus: A picture of reconciliation46:00 – Jesus is our peace50:00 – Three habits peacemakers refuse to carry54:15 – Five practical steps to becoming a peacemaker01:04:00 – The promise for peacemakers and closing prayer

In Making Peace is Messy, Antonio Reyes teaches from Matthew 5:3-9 on what it means to be a peacemaker. This message challenges us to stop avoiding conflict, pursue reconciliation with the right endgame in mind, and receive the peace of Jesus so we can bring peace into our families, communities, and everyday relationships. (00:00) - Welcome and Introduction to The Beatitudes (00:48) - Blessed Are the Peacemakers (01:30) - Making Peace Is Messy (02:53) - Environment, Discipline, and Spiritual Formation (04:22) - Hostility in Our Current Culture (06:35) - Peace in Families, Workplaces, and Relationships (06:56) - Jesus Did Not Grow Up in a Perfect Context (08:42) - What Biblical Peace Really Means (10:22) - Peacemakers Do Not Avoid Conflict (13:07) - Unhealthy Peace and Avoiding the Issue (15:23) - Peacemakers Keep Reconciliation in Mind (18:22) - God Reconciled Us Through Jesus (19:37) - Peacemakers Know Peace Within (22:57) - Spiritual Practices, Healthy Environments, and Outlets (24:09) - Jesus Came to Transform Our Souls (25:48) - Turn the Other Cheek and Refuse to Give Power Away (28:09) - Peacemakers Will Be Called Children of God (29:25) - Refusing Hopelessness Through the Prince of Peace (31:30) - Prayer and Invitation to Follow Jesus

Pastor Dominic Prete closes The Beatitudes series with a message from Matthew 5:10-12 about persecution, righteousness, and the reward of following Jesus. This sermon challenges us to distinguish consequences from true persecution, live unashamed of the gospel, and remember that our ultimate reward is seeing Christ face to face. (00:00) - Camp Update and Closing The Beatitudes (00:55) - Matthew 5:10-12: Blessed Are the Persecuted (01:23) - Fireworks, Consequences, and a Hard Lesson (04:31) - Not Every Suffering Is Persecution (05:26) - Suffering Because of Christ, Not Because of You (06:37) - Citizens of God's Kingdom Under Pressure (08:24) - When Jesus' Values Clash With the World (09:52) - The World Hated Jesus First (11:31) - Jesus Was Persecuted for Exposing Sin (12:52) - Truth, Love, and Calling Sin What It Is (14:01) - Silence, Martyrdom, and Suffering for Christ (16:08) - Know Your Reward in Heaven (17:13) - Seeing Christ Face to Face (18:15) - Present Suffering and Eternal Glory (20:24) - If Jesus Is Worth Dying For, He Is Worth Living For

Blessed Are the Meek: Strength Under ControlContinuing the Beatitudes series, the message centers on Matthew 5:5, “Blessed are the meek,” challenging the common view that meekness means weakness. Using the Greek idea of a war horse trained for battle, meekness is defined as strength under control, contrasting with a culture that rewards outrage and constant self-defense. Proverbs 16:32 is cited to elevate self-control over conquest. Moses models surrendering reputation by staying silent under family criticism while God defends him; David models surrendering revenge by refusing to kill Saul despite opportunities. Jesus embodies ultimate restrained power in arrest and trial, inviting believers to stop fighting battles God never assigned and to live from God-given identity.00:00 Welcome and Updates01:33 Beatitudes Recap03:22 Why Meek Sounds Weak04:46 Culture of Outrage08:42 Meekness Redefined11:15 Strength Under Control14:52 Moses and Reputation22:39 David and Revenge30:25 Jesus the True Meek33:46 Living from Identity35:05 Final Challenge and Prayer

In this message from The Beatitudes, Caleb Cole teaches from Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” A pure heart is not a perfect heart, but an undivided heart surrendered to God. Through Scripture, Caleb challenges us to examine our speech, money, thoughts, actions, and eyes, and to ask Jesus for a new heart that can truly see and experience God. (00:00) - Matthew 5 and The Beatitudes (02:13) - Blessed Are the Pure in Heart (03:34) - The Heart as the Center of a Person (05:00) - What Blessed Means (06:00) - What Pure in Heart Means (07:30) - A Pure Heart Is an Undivided Heart (09:00) - Your Speech Reveals Your Heart (11:10) - Your Money Reveals Your Heart (16:00) - Your Thoughts Reveal Your Heart (18:00) - How Our Thoughts Become Tainted (21:00) - Taking Every Thought Captive (22:00) - Your Actions Reveal Your Heart (24:00) - You Must Be Born Again (26:10) - Ask God for a Pure Heart (29:20) - Guard Your Eyes (32:00) - The Promise of Seeing God (36:00) - A Prayer for a New Heart

In Don't Write Back, Sam Fleury teaches from Matthew 5:7 on what it means to be merciful. This message explores why we often want justice for others and mercy for ourselves, how grace and mercy are different, and how followers of Jesus are called to forgive, release revenge, and live with active compassion. (00:00) - Continuing The Beattitudes (00:43) - Matthew 5:7 and Mercy (00:58) - The Workout Class Story (03:25) - Justice for Others, Mercy for Ourselves (05:16) - Blessed Are the Merciful (05:41) - Mercy in a Controversial Context (07:03) - Jesus Disrupts Our Natural Tendencies (08:03) - Mercy Is Giving What You Received (10:08) - Receiving God's Grace and Mercy (13:23) - When Justice Becomes Revenge (15:31) - Turn the Other Cheek (16:25) - Blessed to Be a Blessing (19:22) - Mercy Is Giving What Is Not Deserved (24:17) - The Label Without the Character (27:04) - The Unforgiving Servant (33:05) - Mercy Is Giving What You Desire (34:47) - Active Compassion in Real Life (38:21) - If You Need It, Feed It (39:05) - God's Mercy Is Greater (40:07) - Jesus Shows Mercy on the Cross

Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit: Where the Kingdom BeginsJeremy launches a summer series on Jesus' Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount. He explains that blessing is often mistaken for visible success or circumstantial happiness, but Jesus describes an inward kingdom transformation focused on posture, not behavior. Teaching “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” he defines it as recognizing dependence on God, the end of self-reliance, and the doorway to grace. Using Luke 18's Pharisee and tax collector, he contrasts prideful spiritual performance with humble honesty, arguing no one graduates from grace and faith begins with admitting “I can't.”00:00 Welcome and Updates01:03 Summer Camp and Guests01:46 Free Bibles for Everyone02:21 New Series Beatitudes04:57 What Blessing Means07:19 Poor in Spirit Explained15:02 Self Reliance Trap19:02 Parable Two Prayers26:01 Empty Hands Grace29:32 Gospel Good News34:09 Invitation and Prayer

Blessed Are the Meek (2026-6-14) Live Sunday Morning Service with Pastor Andrew Hutchinson

What do you do when life starts to feel like it's spiraling out of control and you can't figure out why?   In this conversation, Haley and Dustin sit down with Levi Lusko, pastor, best-selling author, and founder of Fresh Life Church to talk honestly about grief, loss, and the unexpected season of crisis that led to his newest book, Blessed Are the Spiraling.   Levi shares the devastating loss of his five-year-old daughter, the long reach of grief, and how he found hope in the midst of unimaginable pain. He also opens up about the 18-month personal spiral he walked through in midlife :  panic attacks, identity questions, and the long road back to himself and Jesus.   This conversation will encourage you and challenge you to see your hardest seasons differently. Your most difficult season might just be where God is doing his deepest work.   Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.   So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.   Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.   Listen in to learn more  [0:01:40] Hope as an Anchor in Suffering [0:02:31] Losing a Child and Facing Unimaginable Grief [0:04:32] Hurting with Hope Still Hurts [0:05:00] Jesus' Grief as a Model for Deep Emotion [0:05:40] Choosing Healing over Numbing and Distraction [0:07:16] Beauty from Ashes and Time-Traveling Grief [0:08:20] Healing as Connection, Not Betrayal, to Loved Ones Levi Lusko Resources   Get Levi's book, Blessed are the Spiraling: https://levilusko.com/blessed-are-the-spiraling    Learn more about Levi Lusko: https://levilusko.com/  Hope for the Heart resources   Join us at Called to Care on Saturday, June 13! Learn more about the event here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/called-to-care    Connect with Hope for the Heart on social!    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart    Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/    Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/    Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night   God's plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/   Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://hopefortheheart.donorsupport.co/page/hope-talks -------------- Bible verses mentioned in this episode Hebrews 6:19 – "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." John 11:35 – "Jesus wept." Philippians 2:27 – "Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow."  Matthew 5:3-4 – "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."  Psalm 34:18 – "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Genesis 28:16 – "When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, 'Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.'" Isaiah 53:5-6 – "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities... and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all." Isaiah 46:4 – "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  John 6:68 – "Simon Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.'" Jeremiah 12:5 – "If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses?" Hebrews 11:37-38 – "They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated — the world was not worthy of them." Psalm 19:1 – "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."

Father Hudgins' homily: Blessed Are the Merciful

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In this message from The Beatitudes, Angie Richey teaches from Matthew 5:5 that meekness is power under control. Meekness is not weakness, but strength submitted to God, emotional regulation, holy restraint, and trust that God can defend, heal, and lead us without our need to dominate, retaliate, or control every outcome.Click here to view the episode transcript. (00:00) - Power Under Control (01:18) - An Attitude Adjustment on Meekness (02:03) - Living in a Triggered World (03:17) - Matthew 5 and the Upside Down Kingdom (04:22) - Blessed Are the Meek (05:44) - Jesus Redefines Power (07:30) - From Survival to Spiritual Formation (09:12) - The Order of the Beatitudes (10:26) - Releasing the Need to Control (15:37) - Meekness Is Not Weakness (16:02) - Jesus Was Meek, Not Weak (19:44) - The Meek Will Inherit the Earth (23:21) - Psalm 37 and Abundant Peace (25:03) - Meekness and Emotional Regulation (31:43) - David, Saul, and Trusting God's Timing (33:50) - Practices for Meekness (37:12) - The Eagle, the Snake, and Spiritual Battle

Today we will hear a portion of one of the greatest sermons ever spoken. This sermon speaks directly to those who follow Jesus. It is a call to live for the One you value. This living is a radical and different example than the world has ever seen. Join us today as we look at "A Longing for Values." Chapters (00:00:00) - A Longing for Values(00:04:37) - What Do You Value Most in Life? The Blessed Attitude(00:08:17) - Blessed Are the Poor(00:12:26) - And those who Weep(00:15:02) - Jesus Warns His Followers:(00:17:18) - What Do You Value?(00:18:33) - Woe unto You! The Woeful Reward(00:24:55) - Loving the Unlovable(00:29:25) - Pray for Your Enemies(00:36:32) - Clifford Baptist Church Worship

This message is the third and final message in the series "Blessed Are..."

Sermon April 26, 2026 | Rev. Dr. Ben Kappers | Christ Presbyterian Church in Houston, TX | “Blessed Are the Peacemakers” from Matthew 5:1-12 The post Blessed Are the Peacemakers appeared first on Christ Presbyterian Church of Houston.

In this episode of Outlander Cast, Mary & Blake go through your listener feedback for Outlander Season 8 Episode 6, "Blessed Are the Merciful." And yes — a few clear themes emerged. A lot of listeners felt this was the strongest episode of the season so far, with huge praise for Jamie giving the land to the wives, Rachel's emotional strength, and the show finally feeling a little more like old-school Outlander again. At the same time, there was one near-universal opinion: the Roger and Bree sex scene did not work for basically anyone. We also get into: why Hiram Crombie might actually be the original bad penny why Rachel won a lot of people over in this episode why Swiftest of Lizards and Rollo's grandpuppy stole hearts why some listeners think the women carried the whole hour and why the fandom is very much still side-eyeing Amaranthus Plus: voicemails from all over, a great theory about Master Raymond, one delightful challenge about convincing a new viewer to keep watching Outlander, and a whole lot of love from the Nerd Clan. Spoiler warning: this episode contains full spoilers for Outlander Season 8 Episode 6, "Blessed Are the Merciful." We are spoiler free for the books, but not for the TV series. Slàinte Mhath. 

In this episode of Outlander Cast, Mary & Blake break down Outlander Season 8 Episode 6, "Blessed Are the Merciful." This is the first episode in a while that feels like the season stops simmering and starts to boil. We talk about why Jamie's mercy is not softness, why keeping Cunningham alive turns him into a living warning, and why giving the land to the wives is the smartest move in the episode. We also get into Rachel's emotional generosity, Roger's too-neat revelation, William and Ben's messy showdown, and why Major Ferguson now feels like the real storm on the horizon. We also discuss: - why this all somehow goes back to The Godfather - why Jamie's choice works because both options are good and bad - why Rachel may quietly be the MVP of the hour - why the Roger and Bree intimacy scene absolutely did not work for us - and why mercy, in this episode, feels more like pressure than peace Spoiler warning: this episode contains full spoilers for Outlander Season 8 Episode 6, "Blessed Are the Merciful." We are spoiler free for the books, but not for the TV series. Subscribe and follow us at MaryandBlake.com and support the show at JoinTheNerdClan.com. Slàinte Mhath.

Hey Droughties! ✨ This week on Droughtlander Diaries Podcast, we're recapping Episode 806 of Outlander, “Blessed Are the Merciful.”

VIII. Blessed Are the Peacemakers Order Restored Within and Without Beatitude Text “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew Continue reading The post The Beatitudes: The Reordering of the Soul A Thomistic Formation through Lent to Easter Eps VIII appeared first on Fides et Ratio | Reflections on life from a theological and rational perspective.

──────────────────────────────────────── [00:07:33] Fed Reserve Study: Trump's Tariffs Entirely Responsible for the Surge in Consumer Goods Prices A Federal Reserve study found Trump's tariffs explain the entirety of excess inflation in core goods since January 2025. Without them, prices would have already fallen below pre-pandemic trend lines. ──────────────────────────────────────── [00:14:28] Gulf's Largest Aluminum Producer Declared Force Majeure — 4% of World Supply Cut Off The Gulf's largest aluminum producer invoked force majeure due to the Strait blockage, cutting off 4% of global aluminum production on top of the existing tariff hit. ──────────────────────────────────────── [00:27:06] Trump Has Issued 1,600 Pardons in One Year — Six Times His Entire First Term Total Trump issued 1,600 pardons in year one versus 250 in his entire first term. The long line of grifters and white-collar criminals makes this the most corrupt administration since Ulysses Grant. ──────────────────────────────────────── [00:53:00] Trump's Lie of the Day: He Posted a Jesus Meme and Claimed It Was Him as a Doctor Trump posted a meme showing himself in a white robe with healing light from his hands. When pressed, he claimed it depicted him as a Red Cross doctor. The central angel figure was modified to match a depiction of Baal. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:07:44] Pete Hegseth: Every Missile We Fire and Every Iranian We Kill Is for Jesus Knight covers Bruni's piece noting Hegseth explicitly declared every bomb and every Iranian killed is done for Jesus. Knight calls this the real blasphemy — more than any meme. Trump agreed. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:14:25] Trump Attacked Pope Leo for "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" — Then Said He Could Be Israel's Prime Minister Trump attacked Pope Leo for citing Christ's Beatitudes, calling him weak on crime. He then said he could become prime minister of Israel he is so popular there. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:41:09] Judge Threw Out Trump's $10B Defamation Suit Against Wall Street Journal Over Epstein Birthday Card A federal judge dismissed the suit. The Journal accurately described the Epstein birthday card Trump signed "may every day be another wonderful secret." Congress later released the card confirming it. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:46:06] Netanyahu Has Pushed the Iran War for 40+ Years — CIA Director Called His Presentation "Farcical" A British official recalls Netanyahu demanding they bomb Iran when he was still an opposition MP. The CIA director called his situation room presentation farcical. Netanyahu said Saturday he had been waiting for this moment for 40 years. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:54:52] Trump Is Netanyahu's "Goy" — Zionist Donors Obliged Him to Underwrite Whatever Netanyahu Wants A former US officer says Trump's major donors obliged him to underwrite whatever Netanyahu wants. Netanyahu personally arranged the US-Azerbaijan cooperation meeting, bypassing the State Department. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:58:38] Larry Ellison Bought Paramount/CBS, Now Taking Over CNN — Hegseth Celebrated the Acquisition Ellison — a close Netanyahu ally — bought Paramount/CBS and is now taking over Warner/CNN. Hegseth publicly celebrated it. CNN's Iran coverage has been notably pro-war since. ──────────────────────────────────────── [02:01:47] Levin and Pollard Are Coordinating — Huckabee Met Pollard at US Embassy With Levin's Stepson Levin's stepson held a secret meeting with convicted spy Pollard at the US Embassy in Jerusalem, joined by Huckabee. Both are now pushing for nuclear strikes on Iran. ──────────────────────────────────────── [02:06:56] Jonathan Pollard — Who Gave US Secrets to Israel Then Russia — Now Calls for Nuclear Strikes on Iran Pollard passed US military intelligence to Israel, who traded it to the Soviets for prisoners. Trump pardoned him at Miriam Adelson's request. He now calls for an EMP first strike and carpet bombing Iran to the Stone Age. ──────────────────────────────────────── Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to https://davidknight.gold/ for great deals on physical gold/silver For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to https://trendsjournal.com/ and enter the code KNIGHT Find out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.com If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-david-knight-show--2653468/support.

──────────────────────────────────────── [00:07:33] Fed Reserve Study: Trump's Tariffs Entirely Responsible for the Surge in Consumer Goods Prices A Federal Reserve study found Trump's tariffs explain the entirety of excess inflation in core goods since January 2025. Without them, prices would have already fallen below pre-pandemic trend lines. ──────────────────────────────────────── [00:14:28] Gulf's Largest Aluminum Producer Declared Force Majeure — 4% of World Supply Cut Off The Gulf's largest aluminum producer invoked force majeure due to the Strait blockage, cutting off 4% of global aluminum production on top of the existing tariff hit. ──────────────────────────────────────── [00:27:06] Trump Has Issued 1,600 Pardons in One Year — Six Times His Entire First Term Total Trump issued 1,600 pardons in year one versus 250 in his entire first term. The long line of grifters and white-collar criminals makes this the most corrupt administration since Ulysses Grant. ──────────────────────────────────────── [00:53:00] Trump's Lie of the Day: He Posted a Jesus Meme and Claimed It Was Him as a Doctor Trump posted a meme showing himself in a white robe with healing light from his hands. When pressed, he claimed it depicted him as a Red Cross doctor. The central angel figure was modified to match a depiction of Baal. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:07:44] Pete Hegseth: Every Missile We Fire and Every Iranian We Kill Is for Jesus Knight covers Bruni's piece noting Hegseth explicitly declared every bomb and every Iranian killed is done for Jesus. Knight calls this the real blasphemy — more than any meme. Trump agreed. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:14:25] Trump Attacked Pope Leo for "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" — Then Said He Could Be Israel's Prime Minister Trump attacked Pope Leo for citing Christ's Beatitudes, calling him weak on crime. He then said he could become prime minister of Israel he is so popular there. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:41:09] Judge Threw Out Trump's $10B Defamation Suit Against Wall Street Journal Over Epstein Birthday Card A federal judge dismissed the suit. The Journal accurately described the Epstein birthday card Trump signed "may every day be another wonderful secret." Congress later released the card confirming it. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:46:06] Netanyahu Has Pushed the Iran War for 40+ Years — CIA Director Called His Presentation "Farcical" A British official recalls Netanyahu demanding they bomb Iran when he was still an opposition MP. The CIA director called his situation room presentation farcical. Netanyahu said Saturday he had been waiting for this moment for 40 years. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:54:52] Trump Is Netanyahu's "Goy" — Zionist Donors Obliged Him to Underwrite Whatever Netanyahu Wants A former US officer says Trump's major donors obliged him to underwrite whatever Netanyahu wants. Netanyahu personally arranged the US-Azerbaijan cooperation meeting, bypassing the State Department. ──────────────────────────────────────── [01:58:38] Larry Ellison Bought Paramount/CBS, Now Taking Over CNN — Hegseth Celebrated the Acquisition Ellison — a close Netanyahu ally — bought Paramount/CBS and is now taking over Warner/CNN. Hegseth publicly celebrated it. CNN's Iran coverage has been notably pro-war since. ──────────────────────────────────────── [02:01:47] Levin and Pollard Are Coordinating — Huckabee Met Pollard at US Embassy With Levin's Stepson Levin's stepson held a secret meeting with convicted spy Pollard at the US Embassy in Jerusalem, joined by Huckabee. Both are now pushing for nuclear strikes on Iran. ──────────────────────────────────────── [02:06:56] Jonathan Pollard — Who Gave US Secrets to Israel Then Russia — Now Calls for Nuclear Strikes on Iran Pollard passed US military intelligence to Israel, who traded it to the Soviets for prisoners. Trump pardoned him at Miriam Adelson's request. He now calls for an EMP first strike and carpet bombing Iran to the Stone Age. ──────────────────────────────────────── Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to https://davidknight.gold/ for great deals on physical gold/silver For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to https://trendsjournal.com/ and enter the code KNIGHT Find out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.com If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-david-knight-show--5282736/support.

Send us Fan Mail"Blessed Are the Doubters" | Margaret Grun Kibben preaching | 04.12.26

What if the people the world overlooks are the very ones God loves to work through most?In this honest and encouraging episode of the Collide Podcast, Willow Weston sits down with Brant Hansen to talk about finding joy and purpose in the midst of pain, skepticism, and feeling like an outsider. Brant opens up about his difficult childhood, a turbulent relationship with his father, and how these experiences shaped his perspective on faith, life, and ministry.In This Episode, You'll LearnHow being on the spectrum gave Brant a unique lens for understanding others and connecting with the underdog.The importance of loyalty to God over relying on fleeting emotions.How God uses childhood wounds and personal quirks for greater purpose.Practical ways to maintain a vibrant faith even when life or church culture doesn't feel “normal.”Stories of God showing up for the desperate and overlooked, reminding us that He is a God for the underdog.Brant's insights are a gift for anyone who's ever felt like they don't fit in, struggled with comparison, or wondered if God could use them despite their quirks and past pain.Meet Brant HansenBrant is a bestselling author, nationally syndicated Christian radio host, and advocate for children with treatable disabilities. His work encourages those who feel like misfits to embrace their uniqueness and find a faith that makes sense. Brant's show reaches over 200 stations in the US and Canada, and his podcast with his wife has garnered over 19 million downloads. He's the author of several books, including Life is Hard, God is Good, Let's Dance and Blessed Are the Misfits.Collide BookConnect with Brant on his Website: branthansen.comBooks: Life is Hard, God is Good, Let's Dance & Blessed Are the MisfitsFollow Willow: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Welcome to the Celestial Insights Podcast, the show that brings the stars down to Earth! Each week, astrologer, coach, and intuitive Celeste Brooks of Astrology by Celeste will be your guide. Her website is astrologybyceleste.com.  

When we think about the most important people in the Bible, most of us were taught the stories of men: Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, Paul.But women have always been part of God's story.In this episode we highlight three women in scripture whose courage and leadership helped shape the story of God's people—women whose stories are often overlooked or reduced to a single line.You'll meet:Shiphrah and Puah, the Hebrew midwives who resisted Pharaoh's command to kill Hebrew baby boys and helped make the Exodus story possible.Rahab, the courageous woman in Jericho who protected the Israelite spies and negotiated safety for her family.Phoebe, a deacon of the early church who likely carried—and may have been the first to interpret—Paul's letter to the Romans.Together, these women remind us that God has always been working through women: through courage, resistance, leadership, and faith.In honor of International Women's Day, this episode invites us to read scripture a little more closely and rediscover the women who were there all along.Scripture Referenced:Exodus 1:15–21Joshua 2Romans 16:1–2Matthew 1 (Genealogy of Jesus)Books for further reading:A Womanist Midrash and The Womanist Lectionary by Wilda C. Gafney — powerful retellings and interpretations of biblical stories through a womanist lens.Books by Claire K. McKeever-Burgett, including Blessed Are the Women and In the Beginning Were the Women which explore the stories and theological significance of women in scripture.Books by Alice Connor, including Brave and Fierce, which highlight bold women of the Bible and the ways their stories still inspire faith today.Connect with us:Website: moveyourfaith.orgSubscribe to our weekly devotional: Embody FaithInstagram: @faithinmotion.pod and @pastorkelseybSupport our ministry: moveyourfaith.org/give

Blessed Are the Who Again? This is where Jesus pokes the bears of empire, of religion, of capitalism – of all the systems that compete to define “success” and assign power to the “winners.” For him to claim God's blessing on the losers – and furthermore to name them as the influencers, the “salt” and “light” for the rest of us – is a weird, wild flex. To tell us your thoughts on this sermon, click through to the web posting and leave us a comment. Or, find us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Or, email us the old-fashioned way: info@galileochurch.org. To contribute financially to the ongoing ministry of Galileo Church, find us on Venmo, Patreon, or Zelle (generosity@galileohurch.org), or just send a check to P.O. Box 668, Kennedale, TX 76060

Blessed Are the Merciful Description: In this message from the Sermon on the Mount, Pastor Eric teaches why mercy is both an impossibility in the flesh and a lived reality through Jesus Christ and the daily filling of the Holy Spirit. Mercy doesn't go to the deserving—by definition it goes to the guilty. And the only way into the Kingdom is through the mercy of God poured out through the cross of Christ. From there, God expects His children to resemble their Father: to forgive, to bless, and to do good even when it's costly. Pastor Eric explains the difference between vertical forgiveness (releasing vengeance to God) and horizontal forgiveness (restoring relationship when there is repentance), and why mercy given is mercy multiplied—“pressed down, shaken together, and running over.” If you're carrying deep wounds, this sermon does not minimize the pain. It points to the only place real mercy is found—and the only power that can make it possible. Key Scriptures: Matthew 5:7 Luke 6:27–38 Luke 17:1–10 John 1:1, 14 2 Corinthians 5:21 1 Peter 2:24 John 10:27–30 Romans 12:19 In This Sermon: Why the Sermon on the Mount is “Kingdom law” and impossible without Christ Mercy as the doorway into the Kingdom: undeserved and unearned Salvation explained: what it means to be “saved” and why Jesus is the only Rescuer Mercy and love: inseparable, practical, and Christlike The call to love enemies and bless those who curse “Increase our faith” and Jesus' answer: you already have faith—exercise it Mercy multiplied: the measure you use will be measured back to you, pressed down and overflowing Vertical forgiveness vs. horizontal forgiveness Repentance, rebuke, restoration, and rebuilding trust over time Next Step: Ask God to do what you cannot do: fill you with His mercy so you can release vengeance to Him, forgive from a free heart, and be ready to extend mercy when repentance comes.      

Blessed Are the Poor In Spirit_Ben Davison_02.22.26 by Covenant Presbyterian

Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Matthew 5:1–6Episode Overview:In this sermon on Matthew 5:1–6, we enter the opening words of the Beatitudes and discover a pathway that begins with spiritual poverty and leads to deep, lasting joy. Jesus declares that the kingdom belongs not to the self-sufficient, but to those who know their need. From being poor in spirit to mourning sin, from meekness to a hunger for righteousness, Christ reveals both the pardon He freely gives and the progress He graciously produces. This message invites us to receive the riches of Christ and to walk in the transforming work of His Spirit.Key Highlights:• Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit (Matthew 5:3)The kingdom is given—not earned. Spiritual bankruptcy becomes the doorway to divine abundance. Jesus offers Himself as the righteousness we lack.• Blessed Are Those Who Mourn (Matthew 5:4)Honest grief over sin is not despair but the beginning of comfort. God meets repentant hearts not with condemnation, but with compassion.• Blessed Are the Meek (Matthew 5:5)Meekness is strength under God's direction. Those who are humbled by grace become teachable, responsive, and ready to inherit what God promises.• Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness (Matthew 5:6)The Christian life is not only about being pardoned but about longing to grow. Christ satisfies those who desire to become more like Him.• Pardon and ProgressJesus does not merely forgive—He forms. The One who removes our burden also reshapes our hearts.Call to Action:Take time this week to sit quietly before the Lord. Ask Him to show you where you need to acknowledge spiritual poverty, where you need to grieve sin honestly, and where He is inviting you to hunger for greater righteousness. Don't try to fix everything at once. Let the Spirit gently direct you toward one area where growth is needed. Receive Christ's grace there—and walk forward in obedience, trusting that the One who pardons also empowers.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

Blessed Are the Pure in Heart (Practice the Presence of God) Description: In Matthew 5:8, Jesus promises something staggering: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” In this message, Pastor Eric explains that “pure” means without mixture — an unmixed heart and a single devotion. We look at the difference between positional purity (what God does for us in salvation) and progressive purity (how grace teaches us to live and how confession restores fellowship). Jesus doesn't call us to perfection of performance, but purity of pursuit — a life where our treasure, attention, and affection are steadily re-centered on Him. As devotion becomes unmixed, vision becomes clear: the pure in heart “see God” at work in daily life. Key Scriptures: Matthew 5:8 John 15:3–5 Titus 2:11–14 Titus 3:4–7 Romans 3:10, 23 Matthew 6:19–24 Colossians 3:1–2 James 1:5–8 John 10:27–30 In This Sermon: What “pure” means in Scripture: without mixture Positional purity vs. progressive purity (relationship vs. fellowship) Why salvation is not earned: Christ alone, grace alone How mixed devotion clouds discernment and creates instability “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” The single eye, the unmixed life, and learning to “see God” daily A practical call to “Practice the Presence of God” (Brother Lawrence) Next Step: Ask honestly: What has my heart this week? Then re-aim your treasure toward Christ — because where you invest is where your heart will follow.

Blessed Are — Bruises to Blessings Description: In this message from the Blessed Are series, Pastor Eric addresses a bruised and grieving moment in our nation and calls the church to see suffering through the lens of Jesus' words: “Blessed are you…” Drawing from the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount, he explains that blessing is not the absence of pain but the presence of God's redeeming purpose within it. Pastor Eric reflects on persecution, reviling, and being maligned for righteousness' sake, showing how cultural hostility toward biblical convictions is not new—and should not surprise believers. He emphasizes that following Christ means obedience to God over approval from men, even when that obedience leads to suffering, misunderstanding, or loss. The message presses the church to resist fear, self-censorship, and compromise, and instead walk faithfully as ambassadors of Christ. At the heart of the sermon is Isaiah 52–53, where the first and greatest bruise to blessing is revealed. Jesus Christ was wounded, bruised, rejected, and slain for our transgressions so that peace with God could be offered freely to sinners. Pastor Eric shows that Christ's suffering was purposeful, voluntary, and victorious—and that all who trust Him receive forgiveness, new life, and eternal hope. From Acts, 1 Peter, 2 Timothy, 2 Corinthians, and Hebrews 11, the message broadens to include both persecution and everyday hardship. Whether suffering comes through public hostility, personal loss, disability, sickness, or injustice, God redeems it for His glory when we keep an eternal perspective. Bruises do not have the final word—blessings do. Key Scriptures (NKJV): Matthew 5:3–12; Isaiah 52:13–53:12; Acts 5:29–42; 1 Peter 4:12–16; 2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18; Hebrews 11:35–40. Highlights: Why Jesus calls the persecuted blessed, not defeated. Biblical conviction vs. political labeling: living as a biblicist. Christ's bruising as the ultimate path to blessing (Isaiah 53). Peace with God purchased through the suffering of Jesus. Obeying God rather than men when faith is costly. Persecution in many forms: slander, exclusion, loss, hardship. Keeping an eternal perspective when life wounds deeply. The call to leave a legacy of faithfulness, not fear. Next Steps: Ask God to help you see your current bruises through an eternal lens. Thank Him for the suffering of Christ that secured your salvation. Pray for courage to live faithfully without compromise, and for grace to respond to opposition with truth, love, and endurance. Choose this week to rejoice—not in the pain—but in the promise that God is turning bruises into blessings for His glory.

Summary: True spiritual hunger leads us to be filled by God with wisdom, assurance, righteousness, joy, and His very presence.This episode includes the entire service, worship and all, as it's all a part of the First Wednesday Experience.Series: First WednesdayTitle: Come Hungry, Leave FullDate: 2/4/26, 6:30pm, Wednesday Bible StudySpeaker: Pastor Tom Van KempenApproximate Outline:00:00 – Call to Worship and Welcome05:12 – Hunger for God's Presence11:18 – Declaring a Holy Fast17:45 – Why Fasting Awakens the Spirit25:06 – Blessed Are the Hungry31:42 – Leadership Transitions and Prayer39:10 – Seeking the Kingdom First45:08 – Communion and Healing Prayer53:30 – Living Filled and Moving Forward

Blessed Are — Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit (The Blessing of Humility) Description: In this message from the Blessed Are series, Pastor Eric backs up to the foundation of the Beatitudes: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” He explains that “poor” is not material poverty, but spiritual neediness—an honest recognition of our emptiness, our sin, and our inability to rescue ourselves. This poverty of spirit is not humiliation for humiliation's sake; it is the doorway to salvation and the beginning of a life shaped by humility. Pastor Eric contrasts true humility with self-righteousness through Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18). The Pharisee “prays with himself,” measuring goodness against others and reinforcing his own pride. The tax collector, crushed by the weight of sin, pleads for mercy—and Jesus says that man goes home justified. The message presses home a simple reality: no one becomes right with God by comparison, effort, religion, or image-management. The only standard is Jesus Christ, and the only way into the kingdom is through Him. From there, Pastor Eric shows how humility doesn't end at conversion—it continues as the posture of the Christian life. Believers move from desperate need for salvation to a desperate hunger and thirst for righteousness: not to prove worth, but to live from grace. Pride cuts us off from grace; humility keeps us connected to the throne where mercy restores and grace enables. The call is both to the unbeliever (come to Christ and receive the water of life) and to the believer (stay humble, stay hungry, keep coming back to Jesus when you fall). Key Scriptures (NKJV): Matthew 5:3; Luke 18:9–14; Romans 3:10, 23; John 14:6; Matthew 7:13–14; Ephesians 2:1; Matthew 5:6; James 4:6; Hebrews 4:16; Isaiah 55:1–2; Romans 8:1. Highlights: What “poor in spirit” actually means: spiritual neediness, not material lack. Why humility is the foundation of every other Beatitude. The Pharisee vs. the tax collector: self-righteousness vs. justification. The true standard of goodness is Jesus, not the person beside you. Salvation is received, not earned—Jesus is the door, and the way is narrow. The difference between self-righteousness (proving) and true righteousness (hungering). Mercy restores when we fall; grace empowers us to walk in righteousness. Pride cuts off grace; humility keeps us connected to the throne of grace. Next Steps: Ask yourself two questions: Have I truly come to Jesus in poverty of spirit—owning my sin and receiving Him as my only Savior? As a believer, am I trying to prove righteousness, or am I staying humble and staying hungry for Christ to fill me again? Bring your sin, your shame, and your need to Jesus—then keep coming back for mercy and enabling grace to live like Him.

Father Hudgins' homily: Blessed Are the Peacemakers

The Lusko kids join Levi and Jennie for a cozy, hilarious, end-of-2025 family episode—full of memories, real talk, and the kind of side comments only siblings can pull off. Together they look back on the year's big moments: college life, tennis wins, learner's permits, a meaningful baptism, and the wild joy of serving together. You'll hear the behind-the-scenes of the Bolivia mission trip (including travel chaos and a few very memorable mishaps), plus a rapid-fire stroll through favorite podcast episodes, sermon series that hit home, and the books/music that shaped the year. They wrap it all by looking ahead to 2026 with practical goals and spiritual rhythms. Connect with us on social! Levi: @levilusko Jennie: @jennielusko Fresh Life Church: @freshlife [Links] Gospels in a year (Print Ed.): https://bit.ly/4pQG2HN Gospels in a year (Digital Ed.): https://bit.ly/3L4HSWm Movement 2026: https://www.mvmnt26.com Get the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Get the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe Time Stamps 0:01:07 – New Year's as a “holy day” and old-school traditions 0:03:38 – 2025 family updates: college, baptism, tennis, and big milestones 0:08:34 – Bolivia mission trip stories: Compassion kids + travel mayhem 0:13:07 – Favorite podcast moments from the year (and the unforgettable ones) 0:15:07 – Blessed Are the Spiraling launch: 7 cities, 7 days, 7 runs 0:26:35 – What God taught them in 2025 + 2026 goals and a Gospels plan