Podcasts about crosslake

Today is Monday, May 19, 2025. The Brainerd Dispatch Minute is a product of Forum Communications Co. and is brought to you by reporters at the Brainerd Dispatch. Find more news throughout the day at BrainerdDispatch.com.

What is it that Nehemiah was working for, and what was he trying to accomplish? What steps did he take to do the good work that God had given him, and how can we apply those principles in our own walk with God and work for God today? How is God calling you to build up His Kingdom?

Psalm 139 reads like a diary entry of David with its emotional and personal context, yet it is introduced as a hymn for the choirmaster to be sung in public worship. Its inclusion in the Psalter calls the believing singer/reader to identify with David's heartfelt relationship to His omniscient and loving Creator. The psalm calls us to assume its 1" person perspective as we confess with David the limitless knowledge, love, and power of Christ toward us, His beloved bride, who He died to redeem. This song is one of confession and submission to the sovereign knowledge of God. It is the opposite of Adam and Eve's impulse on their day of reckoning. Rather than hiding from God and scrambling to disguise his-guilt and shame, David submits-whole heartedly to the Lord, asking for God to audit his heart and life.

Hi Listeners! Another big weekend has arrived in the BLA.We have Mother's Day, The Governor's Fishing Opener in Crosslake, and best of all... a beautiful looking forecast for these busy next few days! On this show Colton, Isaiah and Jacob chat about everything from best Fishing Opener memories to potentially controversial Mother's Day takes, and soooo much more. Tune in to hear it all! And as always... Thanks to our sponsors Pequot Lakes and Gull Lake Sanitation, Hanneken Insurance, Hills Detailing Center, Craguns Legacy Courses, Pequot Lakes EDC, Refined Lending w/ John Kinkaede, Party Time Rental and our Presenting Sponsor Lakes Area CPAs! Instagram: ListenLocalMNBlazeAirMNWoodsToWaterMNNorthwoodsAgent Facebook:Listen Local MNBlazeAirMNWoodsToWaterMN

Today is Thursday, May 8, 2025. The Brainerd Dispatch Minute is a product of Forum Communications Co. and is brought to you by reporters at the Brainerd Dispatch. Find more news throughout the day at BrainerdDispatch.com.

Today is Monday, May 5, 2025. The Brainerd Dispatch Minute is a product of Forum Communications Co. and is brought to you by reporters at the Brainerd Dispatch. Find more news throughout the day at BrainerdDispatch.com.

The title for our message comes from chapter 10 verse 11 where Paul identifies his hearers, as those on whom the end of the ages has come. Paul's greater audience therefore is all the Church until Jesus returns. While the occasion for his letter involves issues in Corinth, the application of his instruction extends to every Gospel outpost of the church age until new heavens & earth kingdom consummation.  Paul expounds his own Holy Spirit led philosophy of ministry in chapters 9 & 10 of I Corinthians to convict and inspire this church to apply these principles of Gospel ministry in their own lives and congregation.  In these practical ways he instructs them “be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” (10:33b)

In the first chapter of 2 Peter, Peter gives the church practical application on how we are to confirm our calling and election. He reminds the church of the great precious gift that we have been given, the promise of eternal life. He then calls the believer to action, to be effective and fruitful for the kingdom of God. God has granted the believer everything they need to be fruitful for the kingdom of God.

Of all the significant moments in redemption history, the resurrection of Jesus Christ may well be the event with the greatest disparity between its central importance to the Christian faith and its appreciation in modern times.  What we tend to take for granted, our forebears recognized as the birthday of the Christian church. The resurrection before-and-after pictures are among the most dramatic in all of scripture.  When the day of Pentecost arrives and with it, the baptism of the Holy Spirit empowering the first Christian missionaries, Peter announces the resurrection of Jesus to the crowds gathered in Jerusalem proclaiming: “This Jesus God raised up and of that WE ALL ARE WITNESSES.” (Acts 2:32).   When Jesus rose from the dead, so did gospel clarity, confidence, and power in the confession, conviction, & ministry of the early disciples of Jesus. To this day, over two millennia later, we gather every every week on the first day to worship our Savior who left behind an empty tomb on the very first Lord's Day over two thousand years ago.  Peter's message upon Pentecost is a case in point illustrating the profound effect this miracle had on him even as he proclaims its implications for the history of all mankind in his first great sermon.

Guests are Vanessa Ruedisili and Jennifer Lowe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Vanessa Ruedisili and Jennifer Lowe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paul's admonitions to the church in our passage are better understood in context of the issues arising in Corinth. Chapters 1-6 highlight particular problems including divisions in the body over superficial leadership preferences, worldly sexual norms corrupting the church, and frivolous legal cases between brothers in Christ. In addition to these internal issues, there was the looming threat of historic external persecution and hardship the church would soon encounter. All the more reason to address the tendency toward man-centeredness in the Corinthian church head on. Under the current conditions, the church would likely not survive the day of testing. Paul appeals to his personal convictions and application of the call to all believers to take up his cross and follow Christ. If the church would seek first the kingdom of God and prioritize the glory of Christ in their personal lives, covenant relationships, and highest ideals, her lampstand would remain.

Psalm 138 is the first of 8 songs written by David which appear as a set in the closing chapters of the Psalter. These Davidic psalms are followed by the final collection of S songs which all begin and end with the refrain: "Praise the lord!". These closing medleys swerve to reprise two central themes of the entire book - prayer, and praise. David's songs are structured according to the former followed by the crescendo psalms emphasizing the latter. It seems appropriate that this greatest of song books would culminate with a universal call to worship and 8 songs penned as examples by Israel's greatest king.

The open house of our passage stands in stark contrast to the temptation of the adulteress in chapter 7.  In chapter 9 we receive an invitation to Lady Wisdom's residence.  Notice how she prepares her household for the occasion. Rather than the seductive couch coverings, Egyptian linens, myrrh/aloe/cinnamon perfumed bed of the temptress (7:16-17), Wisdom sets pillars and prepares a feast (9:1-2). Next she sends out her servants to call all who will heed her voice to come and dine. Her servants call to the simple and those lacking sense: “Turn in here, come, eat of my bread?” While some heed her invitation, many pay no attention as they sit down at the Woman Folly's table to a meal of stolen water and secret bread (17). Which table do you prefer? Be careful which you choose! For those who sit down with Lady Wisdom, they will appreciate her preparation, invitation, and conversation .

Today is Monday, March 24, 2025.   The Brainerd Dispatch Minute is a product of Forum Communications Co. and is brought to you by reporters at the Brainerd Dispatch. Find more news throughout the day at BrainerdDispatch.com. The Brainerd Dispatch is proud to be a part of the Trust Project. Learn more at thetrustproject.org.

To demonstrate the scope of wisdom's potential. "Lady Wisdom" appeals to creation itself as the evident and super-abundant fruit of wisdom applied. Furtherrnore she appeals to her relationship to Yahweh to illustrate the indispensable necessity ofwisdon1 for any successful endeavor. lfwisdo1n is intrinsic to the works of God Hi1nself, ho.vc ould anyone, save a fool, distance hitnself fro1T1h er in his own endeavors? With .visdo,n as his right hand, the Lord Hi1nself established all n1aterial reality. More funda,nental than the molecular structure of elen1ents,m ore basic than the ato,n as a building block of 1T1atterth, e Lord, by wisdom, establishedt he heavensa nd 1narkedo ut the foundations' of the earth. The re,nainder of the chapter is organized by the tin1e references 'before', vhen', and 'now' endorsing "Lady Wisdom" s: prerequisite, companion, and counselor

As we have recently noted, the teaching of Proverbs regarding wisdom presumes the proper relationship between the spiritual and the material. We note as the chapter continues that legitimate political authority is established on wisdom. Even creation itself is established on wisdom, as is all enduring hope of human flourishing. Properly ordered affections prioritize the foundation, the means, and the righteous pre-conditions of all legitimate endeavors. Our summary from the analogy of wealth in verses 10 & 11: Only those who come upon their prosperity by way of loving wisdom more than riches can be trusted as their steward. can be adapted to every area of life. Verses 14-16 for instance: Only those who come upon their office by way of loving wisdom more than political power can be trusted as its steward. Lady wisdom's call isn't limited to young men lacking sense, she asserts herself on the heights beside the way of kings, princes, and nobles as well..

Today is Friday, March 14, 2025. The Brainerd Dispatch Minute is a product of Forum Communications Co. and is brought to you by reporters at the Brainerd Dispatch. Find more news throughout the day at BrainerdDispatch.com.

Welcome to another week of the Listen Local Podcast! On today's show, the first one in three weeks where all Colton, Jacob and Isaiah are in-studio, we talk all-things Crosslake on the week of their biggest event of the year... St. Paddy's Day Parade Week! To discuss all of this is no other than Jackson Purfeerst the new Mayor of Crosslake. Jackson dives into his backstory, what led him and his family to Crosslake over a decade ago, his thoughts on the Parade and other events in Crosslake, and then of course the outlook for upcoming City of Crosslake projects. Also, the guys chat about Jacob's trip to Mexico, Colton's trip to the MN High School Hockey State Tourney, and Isaiah hangs with Reese at First Ave. Plus... A VERY BUSY kickoff to NFL Free Agency and the Vikings spending some big money! All of that and more on this week's episode of Listen Local! And as always... Thanks to our sponsors Pequot Lakes and Gull Lake Sanitation, Hanneken Insurance, Hills Detailing Center, Craguns Legacy Courses, Pequot Lakes EDC, Refined Lending w/ John Kinkaede, Party Time Rental and our Presenting Sponsor Lakes Area CPAs! Instagram: ListenLocalMNBlazeAirMNWoodsToWaterMNNorthwoodsAgent Facebook:Listen Local MNBlazeAirMNWoodsToWaterMN

Psalm 137 is A song of lament, oath, & oracle.  This is a Psalm acknowledging situations where it is excruciating to sing. The psalmist is in exile but his heart is in Zion.  This is a song Nehemiah could sing as he wept in the courts of Artaxerxes' Persian controlled Babylon.  Nehemiah was a respected official who had the ear and the favor of an emperor, yet his affections called Jerusalem home (Neh 1:3-9). Nehemiah's contentment was tied to the fortunes of Zion: the status of covenant relations between God & God's people.  In his anguish our author lifts his appeal to The Great Judge of the nations.  The refrain spares no weight as the Psalmist finds consolation in the comprehensive judgements of a Holy God.

Paul's instructions continue according to the purpose statement of 1 Corinthians 7:35 to benefit the church, to promote good order, and to secure undivided devotion to the Lord… Referencing the letter he had received from the Corinthians, Paul addresses another issue of the day of spiritual & practical concern. What should a Christian do when the grocery stores are stocked with food that has been offered to idols? Paul's pastoral wisdom is evident in his sensitivity to the varying degrees of spiritual maturity given the paganism rampant in the culture. The weakened conscience places limits on knowledge processing abilities. For some individuals, proper categories may remain unclear, and a weakened spiritual state may render them more vulnerable to deception. In these cases, compassionate wisdom guides us to be careful not to destabilize a weaker brother while we work to build up the church.

Unless you think femininity is appropriated exclusively to portray seductive temptation in the wisdom literature of Proverbs… Remember chapter 1:20-33 has introduced us to a different woman entirely and here again in chapter 8, we behold the female personification of wisdom. Lady Wisdom is the counterpart to the forbidden woman of chapter 7 and the woman named Folly at the end of chapter 9.  Utilizing personification devices of the literature to great effect, this character sketch anticipates the closing chapter of Proverbs where the “excellent wife” applies the virtues nurtured by wisdom to the calling of godly womanhood and embodies a vision for the feminine ideal.  The book of Proverbs is a comprehensive discipleship handbook for coming of age, even as it provides sufficient counsel and guidance to wisdom students of all ages who may be lacking in spiritual maturity.

Guests are Crosslake Chamber Director Cindy Myogeto and St. Patrick's Day Celebration Committee Vice Chair Mallory Goerges Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Crosslake Chamber Director Cindy Myogeto and St. Patrick's Day Celebration Committee Vice Chair Mallory Goerges Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Solomon's instructions continue to unfold in the dramatic framework of chapter 7. We've imagined our young man seated for a man-to-man talk across the mahogany desk in his wise father's 5th floor study. They have observed the busy streets of worldliness from their window vantage point. These two scenes are then followed by two more illustrating the occasion and consequences of covenant unfaithfulness. These are the tests of Ii fe that make or break a man. While the instruction of wisdom from the Word of God is sufficient to guard against these dangers, the stakes are high and the intensity of temptation should not be underestimated. This is a classic scenario of wisdom vs. foolishness. In the warnings against adultery & fornication in the source of wisdom's study, we consider situations where we are most vulnerable, wisdom is most likely to be disregarded, and consequences are most devastating. The literary devices call out: "Pay attention if you know what's good for you young man!"

This Psalm's responsive refrain is echoed 26 times. With every verse we are reminded and called to confess:" His (Yahweh's steadfast love endures forever". Perhaps the most obvious message from Ps 136 is ironically the most often discounted: the relationship between the sovereignty of God demonstrated in His awesome acts and His eternal steadfast love. How is it that the cosmic order of creation, the terrifying judgments of Egypt, or the conquering of nations demonstrate the love of God? Despite our modem sensibilities, the author expects the singer/reader to resonate with these citations as proof of Yahweh's loving character. Viewing this song from the perspective of Israel's Old Testament experience is helpful in making sense of these connections. With the song's introductory three verses we note the 'God of Gods & Lord of Lords' references providing a helpful parallel from Deuteronomy 10:17. Here Moses issues a call to worship and fear given the revelation that the owner of earth & heaven has so loved His chosen people that He has exercised His sovereign power on their behalf in delivering them from bondage and multiplying their numbers. Thematic divisions for the remainder of the song are supplied from the text itself as the Psalmist provides a summarizing refrain in chiastic conclusion. Taking the closing themes in reverse order we have our outline for Psalm 136.

The vision for Gospel Reconstruction in Corinth continues with blueprints equipping the church for the Christian life in greater society. We understand from Paul's teaching that Christ bas come to rebuild and reconcile individuals and institutions in his image and Christians are called to faithfully, patiently endeavor to do the same. Paul's letters imply an important distinction between Christian missionary work including Christian growth in a community and secular revolutions. Civil Authorities are to be recognized, honored, and called to repentance. Slaves are not to immediately revolt against their owners. Christian spouses are not supposed to throw their unbelieving wives or husbands out as soon as they come to Christ. Rather these circumstances are to be viewed as God's strategic providence magnifying our salt and light opportunities (Mat 5: 13-16)

Guests are Event Committee Members, Jesse Eide and Heather Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Event Committee Members, Jesse Eide and Heather Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We might consider chapter 7 of Proverbs from the perspective of four scenes in a movie.  The first, I imagine unfolding in a 5th floor study of a man whose wisdom has increased with age. The devoted father sits across a mahogany desk from his son with well worn spines of his library books standing at attention on the shelves behind him. “As you grow older, my son, I have some counsel for you. If you heed my words, your path to joy and fulfillment will be secure. If you do not, the consequences are dire.” In scene two, the camera follows our wise father standing up and walking towards the window beckoning his son with one hand, the other holds a Bible open to Proverbs 7 with his calloused thumb. From this vantage point they look down on a busy street. “See that man about your age walking with no purpose? Let me tell you where he will find himself if he continues on these well worn paths of foolishness.” In scene three, conflict is subtly introduced as the father narrates the aimless young everyman's encounter with a seductive woman of the night (14-20). Finally, scene four closes the sequence as the two return to their chairs and our wise father leans forward, staring into the eyes of his teenage son and with a voice like Morgan Freeman says:  “Listen to me, and be attentive to the words of my mouth. Let not your heart turn aside to her ways. Do not stray into her paths… her whole house is the way to Sheol, going down to the chambers of death.

A useful device in case-law literature is sometimes called “citing the minimal case”. The idea is to demonstrate the application of the law in a situation of minor significance.  By implication then the reader understands that this law would surely apply in principle to any situation of greater importance.  The purpose of this device is to efficiently delineate the scope of a law without exhaustively listing every potential instance of application.  A classic example would be Paul's exposition of the ox & his “wages” (I Tim 5:27-28).  His point here: If the farmer is morally obligated to feed his working livestock then those who labor in the ministry are certainly worthy of the church's support.     In the context of ‘wisdom literature' a similar device is featured in our text. In calling the student of wisdom to integrity and righteousness in the context of romantic relationships and sexual temptation, Solomon is citing “the most difficult case” to illustrate the sufficiency of wisdom.  Our passage is a proclamation that godly instruction is effective to guide and guard what might otherwise be the most obstinate student facing the greatest of temptations. Sexual temptations are a significant test of wisdom.  In the warnings against adultery in chapters 5 through 7 we consider situations where wisdom is often disregarded and consequences of doing so are most devastating

Psalm 135 publishes a command to worship Yahweh and chronicles occasions for worship from nature, history, and covenant. Echoing themes from Ps 134, Ps 135 opens reprising a call to worship extending firstly to those with priestly duties commissioned to serve the Lord in His house (temple). The song continues by recounting & extolling works of the Lord and condemning the foolishness of idolatry. Finally Psalm 135 closes with another call to worship chorus this time broadcasting across the world that all the people of God might join him in song. Note: portions of this song might sound familiar. Verses 15-21 are a nearly word-for-word parallel with Ps 115:4-13 reminding us that the church has gathered together to repeat songs of worship for millennia from the days of leather scrolls to our own assembly here today.

In Philippians chapter 2, Paul encourages the church to be united in the faith. He instructs the church to remain humble, using Christ as his primary example. He then encourages the church to work out their salvation, without grumbling, but with joy amidst a crooked and twisted generation.

Our guest today is Jackie Wipper, Crosslake Town Square Marketing and Events Director. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our guest today is Jackie Wipper, Crosslake Town Square Marketing and Events Director. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's gospel introduces Jesus by way of His pre-incarnate glory in the first 18 verses typically referred to as "The Prologue of John". (This was our text for last week's sermon entitled: "Introducing Jesus"). The introduction of Jesus in John continues by way of testimony in verses that follow. The message of the book and John's intentions in writing are reinforced by his introduction. Later he will reveal emphatically that he himself is providing testimony (20:31) so that" ... You may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." A primary vehicle for revelation in John's gospel is that of 151 hand testimony defined by Webster as: "A solemn declaration or affirmation made for the purpose of establishing or proving some fact." In our text today, he features the testimony of John the Baptist.

How do the Gospel writers introduce Jesus? The question of where to begin recounting the world's greatest narrative with an eternal back story would be a daunting task indeed. All 4 gospels begin in different ways providing a multi-faceted perspective on the greatest eventsI n history. The Gospel authors were keenly aware of the significance of the historical timing of the incarnation Just as Gene noted from Paul's letter to the Romans last sermon( Rom 5:6)" At the right time Christ died for the ungodly". In today's message we will seek to glean more insight on the timing of the incubation from the vantage point of four Spirit inspired witnesses.

In Romans chapter 5, verses 6-11, the apostle Paul expounds on the atonement. The condition we were in, how we are reconciled, and justified through Christ. Gods love for us is such that while we were still enemies of God, he sent his Son to take the punishment we deserve, that we might be reconciled to him.

In I Cor chapter 7, Paul continues with his teaching strategy introduced in chapter 6. Adding to the phrases:  All things are lawful for me• & the phrase: -Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food', Paul addresses a 3rd popular notion of the day denoted by the phrase 'It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman· (7: 1). This was a matter of concern the Corinthian church had addressed In their own letter to Paul. The apostle takes the occasion of the cultural presumptions of Corinth to provide Biblical correction as necessary alongside helpful applications to disciple these new believers. Paul's instruction presents helpful teaching for us today on these particular matters as well as a model approach to address popular notions of our own time. Here he is demonstrating the principle he will lay out in his 2nd epistle to the church (II Cor 10:5). Paul is taking thoughts on human relationships including marriage captive to obey Christ.

Our passage today introduces another unique feature which will resurface later in the book of Proverbs. The ascending numerical device of verse 16 is a feature of Wisdom Literature & Hebrew poetry. The 6 followed by 7 reference is designed to emphasize that the author's point Is strengthened by the frequency of examples, the number of which exceeds his present accounting. One commentary explains the implicit message of this proverb structure is: • ... to invite further appropriate answers. Wisdom literature often lists things together that are perceived to have something in common. Relationships are established in surprising ways, and the process of discerning orderly relationships in the universe increases wisdom: -Other examples of numerical Proverbs include Prov 30:18-31, Amos 1 :3-13, 2:4-5, & Job 5:19. --Proverbs of this type have been called: numerical ladders or instances of numerical heightening.

The first half of Proverbs chapter 6 contrasts the ambitions of the wise with the efforts of the wicked. The student of wisdom will work to reinforce a stable and virtuous vision for life while the fool uses corruption as leverage to benefit himself at the expense of others and God's design for relationships. Proverbs 6 contains perhaps the 10th 'My Son' oracle. Here again the 'father' (as the classic example) stands for: the source of wisdom. The son (as the classic example) stands for: the student of wisdom. These are joined by the forbidden woman introduced in the last chapter as the classic example standing for: sources of temptation.

Ps 134 is a fitting conclusion & crescendo to the Songs of Ascent summarizing central themes of this catalogue in the Psalter. In the context of temple worship at the time of authorship, Psalm 134 serves as an appropriate salutation and benediction. In its historical context, the people wave “goodbye” to the priests returning to their various vocations while their representatives perform the sacrifices in their stead.  The promise & picture of a tireless priesthood is celebrated in this anthem.  The hopes of Israel at the time rested upon the shoulders of many mortal men, themselves sinners, to intercede on their behalf with merely symbolic sacrifices day & night in the house of the Lord. —Not so today! We have our great eternal, omnipotent High Priest Jesus Christ! (Hebrews 7:22-25). And as such, priestly duties of spiritual service unto God now fall in a secondary sense on all believers (I Peter 2:5) as they step through the veil (Heb 10:19-22) torn at Calvary into otherwise unmediated communion with God. Thus, on this side of the New Covenant, the call to worship of Psalm 134 extends beyond the old tabernacle order to all believers… Come bless the Lord all you servants of the Lord!

In I Cor 6:12-13, Paul cites several general statements that are context dependent. In light of what the Apostle has addressed thus far and what he proceeds to cover in this chapter, Paul provides categorical qualifications to equip the church with discernment pertaining to matters of moral order within their community given the norms of society around them. Remember, the Corinthian church was just down the street from a bustling cultural center boasting the great wealth of a dual port city and international religious tourism making pilgrimage to the goddess Aphrodite and engaging in rampant prostitution and other debauchery she stood for.

In Titus chapter 2, Paul lays out the qualities and characteristics of the biblical woman. He gives instruction on how they are to conduct themselves, as well as instruction relevant to their God given role. Although men and women have different roles in God's plan for the church and the family, they are equally as important, and it is essential for women to know how to navigate their calling in an ever changing culture.

We have noted how the entire book of Proverbs by design is an exposition of the 5th commandment (Ex20:12) “Honor your father & your mother...”. Properly applied within the covenant home, Solomon demonstrates that to obey this commandment is to obey them all. In this way, the framework of Proverbs presents an exhortation to all parties in society. If we serve as a source of wisdom for anyone, especially our children, may our instruction be consistent with all the law of God. As we are students of wisdom, under anyone, especially our Christian parents, may we honor the whole council of God in honoring them. In chapter 5, the author emphasizes the relationship between the 5th & 7th commandments. Those who heed the council of their godly parents, will not commit adultery, instead their upbringing will prepare them to discern and resist unfaithfulness to their covenants with God and their family.

The poetic imagery of this song evokes the beauty and blessings of condescension. Anointing oil poured from above, dew falling, as it were, from on high and appearing at the mountain of God where heaven touches earth. Ps 133 expounds in metaphor the precious gift of the God-glorifying communion of the saints. David compares the gift of brotherly love to blessings descending from the storehouses of glory reassuring the people of the Lord's favor, faithfulness, and sufficiency. Paired with the Lord's prayer in Mat 6:10, it is clear, one sign of God's will and kingdom present on this earth is the sweetness of Christian fellowship. Where Jacob's ladder is touching ground, brethren dwell together in unity. For those who have the atonement of Christ in common, there can be no greater experience of solidarity and joy so long as we walk in the Spirit. Let us repair our souls to the affections expressed in Psalm 133 as we behold this text.

Yet today, despite the moral degradation of our society, in a court room the judge is referred to as “Your Honor”, to acknowledge the solemn duty and sacred authority of justice. If order breaks down at any point in the court proceedings, what does the judge do? He takes up the gavel (symbolic of his authority) and strikes the desk, reminding the court of their appropriate disposition in the context of the moment. We recognize we dare not disrespect the solemn and consequential responsibility of the occasion and the presiding officer. These are matters of life and death, not trivial diversions. This is one of the few remaining such rituals in our culture broadly speaking. How much more important are matters of eternal life and death and therefore how much more sacred honor is warranted in the worship of Jesus Christ and the order of His church?

In 1 Timothy chapter 3, Paul lays out the qualifications required for church leadership. These are the standards set forth for a man to be in a position of authority in the church. But the qualities and characteristics of such a man, are also a good benchmark for all Christian men. All men should aspire to meet these requirements, regardless of their aspirations regarding church leadership.

Each year, adults and children gather in Crosslake, Minnesota to celebrate the incredible sounds of the Common Loon — the state bird of the land of 10,000 lakes — by belting out their best impressions. Some of the most impressive competitors are in the Youth category, like 2023's second place winner Malakai. Hear some strikingly accurate loon calls — and some slightly more creative interpretations — in this episode.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org. Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible.