Podcasts about Divine presence

Revelation 7:9-17; 21:3 // Nathan MillerThis sermon paints a glorious picture of the future by exploring Revelation 7:9-17 and 21:3. See the great multitude, robed in white, gathered from every nation before the throne of God and the Lamb, worshipping with loud voices. We examine the promise of eternal comfort—no more hunger, thirst, or sorrow—as the Lamb shepherds them to living water. The teaching culminates in the profound declaration of God dwelling directly with humanity (Revelation 21:3), signifying the perfect, eternal relationship. A message of hope and victory for believers.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new25.12.28

Revelation 7:9-17; 21:3 // Ben BeasleyThis sermon paints a glorious picture of the future by exploring Revelation 7:9-17 and 21:3. See the great multitude, robed in white, gathered from every nation before the throne of God and the Lamb, worshipping with loud voices. We examine the promise of eternal comfort—no more hunger, thirst, or sorrow—as the Lamb shepherds them to living water. The teaching culminates in the profound declaration of God dwelling directly with humanity (Revelation 21:3), signifying the perfect, eternal relationship. A message of hope and victory for believers.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new25.12.28

Revelation 7:9-17; 21:3 // Manny CheryThis sermon paints a glorious picture of the future by exploring Revelation 7:9-17 and 21:3. See the great multitude, robed in white, gathered from every nation before the throne of God and the Lamb, worshipping with loud voices. We examine the promise of eternal comfort—no more hunger, thirst, or sorrow—as the Lamb shepherds them to living water. The teaching culminates in the profound declaration of God dwelling directly with humanity (Revelation 21:3), signifying the perfect, eternal relationship. A message of hope and victory for believers.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new25.12.28

Revelation 7:9-17; 21:3 // Bill GormanThis sermon paints a glorious picture of the future by exploring Revelation 7:9-17 and 21:3. See the great multitude, robed in white, gathered from every nation before the throne of God and the Lamb, worshipping with loud voices. We examine the promise of eternal comfort—no more hunger, thirst, or sorrow—as the Lamb shepherds them to living water. The teaching culminates in the profound declaration of God dwelling directly with humanity (Revelation 21:3), signifying the perfect, eternal relationship. A message of hope and victory for believers.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new25.12.28

Revelation 7:9-17; 21:3 // Jacob NannieThis sermon paints a glorious picture of the future by exploring Revelation 7:9-17 and 21:3. See the great multitude, robed in white, gathered from every nation before the throne of God and the Lamb, worshipping with loud voices. We examine the promise of eternal comfort—no more hunger, thirst, or sorrow—as the Lamb shepherds them to living water. The teaching culminates in the profound declaration of God dwelling directly with humanity (Revelation 21:3), signifying the perfect, eternal relationship. A message of hope and victory for believers.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2574/responses/new25.12.28

On today's page, Zevachim 102, the Gemara suggests that Moses was too preoccupied with the Divine Presence to fulfill a basic priestly duty. Israeli rabbi Avihud Schwartz unpacks why that startling answer explains not just Moses's role, but Judaism's broader vision of sanctity. Is being “too spiritual” ever a real excuse for skipping the work of this world? Listen and find out. To support Tablet and make a tax-deductible donation, click here.

After working with Ken for about four years online, I had no idea that an in person session would turn out to be one of our deepest sessions ever, RIGHT before welcoming him back to the Podcast in person! From our very first conversation years ago, to now hugging him in person for the first time, his unique gift of Divine Presence has changed my life. I feel so safe to face my darkest shadows in his profound presence of truth, humility, and the Divine. I've become such a more embodied coach, friend and woman with his support.  In this connected and extraordinary conversation we explored… -How Ken went from being a mortgage lender to being called into his work as a healer, starting with a silent meditation retreat that changed the course of his life. -His unique gift of guiding people beyond concepts into direct embodied spiritual experience, where the divine is not an idea but a lived reality. -What "soul embodiment" truly means, dropping from the head into the hips and into the raw, unfiltered experience of being. -Ken's early years of integration, when the sheer energy moving through him would cause convulsions, and how over time his nervous system expanded it's capacity to hold the depth of transmission. -The profound humility he carries in his work, never claiming power over another but instead walking alongside them in the sacred space of discovery. -Our shared reflections on surrender, vulnerability, and allowing ourselves to feel terror, grief, and raw emotion without judgment—trusting that integration and intimacy with the divine will emerge from being with what is. -His teachings on the developmental stages of consciousness, from disempowered to empowered to integrated, and how each stage invites us into deeper wholeness and love. -The reminder that true intimacy with ourselves, each other, and the divine is found not in certainty, but in surrendering to the unknown. I've heard in the past the concept that everyone is inside of me, yet working with Ken I've had the embodied experience of it's truth. We really ARE all One.  This conversation is an invitation to embrace and welcome feeling all aspects of yourself without judgment, to experience yourself as the divine, not as an idea but as a living embodiment. Ken reminds us that we don't need to have it figured out, we only need to surrender, feel, and allow the unknown to reveal its sacred beauty as our very life. How blessed I am to walk with this man on my journey.  ➡️ Go check out patreon.com/allanapratt for Exclusive content! About Ken:  Ken W. Stone has worked with tens of thousands of people from around the world for over 17 years — across nearly every spiritual tradition and background. His work is known for its depth, and ability to enliven embodied divine presence without performance or striving. Ken's gift is guiding others beyond information — into direct, embodied spiritual experience that transforms consciousness itself: how you connect with the Divine, live your life, and relate to yourself and others.   Website: www.KenWStone.com Facebook URL https://www.facebook.com/ken.stone.spiritual.teacher Linkedin URL https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenwstone/ X/Twitter URL https://x.com/energy_worker Soul Embodiment For Spiritual Messengers https://kenwstone.com/embodiment-for-spiritual-messengers/ Schedule your Intimacy Breakthrough Experience with me today https://allanapratt.com/connect Scholarship Code: READYNOW Finding the One is Bullsh*t. Becoming the One is brilliant and beautiful, and ironically the key to attracting your ideal partner. Move beyond the fear of getting hurt again. Register for Become the One Introductory Program. http://allanapratt.com/becomeintro Use Code: BTO22 to get over 40% off. Let's stay connected: Exclusive Video Newsletter: http://allanapratt.com/newsletter Instagram - @allanapratt [ / allanapratt ] Facebook - @coachallanapratt [ / coachallanapratt ]

Chanukah : Revealing the Divine Presence within Exile. The Miracle of the Hidden Light

Discovering God's Love and Navigating Relationship Success with PoetryIn this episode, Relationship Coach Shirah Chante reflects on the omnipresence, omnipotence, and omniscience of God, expressing gratitude for His divine love and guidance. She introduces the poem Fair Love from her book Jaundiced View and emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy and meaningful romantic relationships. Using the poem, she explores themes of enduring love, the significance of presence, and the necessity of discernment in dating. Shirah encourages listeners to seek relationship success by aligning their love lives with God's intentions and being mindful of signs and trials in relationships. Give support to the show below!00:00 Introduction and God's Omnipresence00:51 Purpose of the Show01:58 Introduction to the Poem 'Fair Love'02:34 Reading Fair Love04:31 Analyzing the Poem07:06 Spiritual Connection in Relationships08:57 Rekindling Passion in Relationships10:34 Discernment in Dating13:21 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the show

You want to see revival? Pick up the mantle. The God of Elijah responds to hungry hearts. Jeremiah 29:13. "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your hearts." Elisha followed Elijah closely because he was hungry for the double portion. Hunger is the magnet that attracts divine presence.

Seven years ago, Rosemary Thornton died on a hospital gurney, went to heaven, and came back without cancer. But coming back was just the beginning.In this raw follow-up conversation, Rosemary shares what nobody talks about after a near-death experience: the struggle of being back in a body, the fading connection to angels, and why divine healing doesn't mean you stop breaking bones or needing the dentist. Rosemary gets honest about the emails from people who think touching her will heal them, why she still sobs about her husband nine years later, and what the angels said when they told her: 'Welcome home, dear. That was a hard one, but you did it well.You'll hear why the soul leaves before the body stops, what a stern angel ordered her to do while sitting in a church pew, and the prayer she uses when life gets overwhelming.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Andrea opens the conversation and introduces Rosemary's near-death experience and healing. 01:00 – Rosemary recounts the medical procedure that led to her bleeding to death. 03:00 – The moment her soul left her body and entered the comforting blackness. 06:00 – Why she believes the soul often departs before the body dies. 08:00 – Meeting the Divine Presence and hearing, “You're the image and likeness; I'm the original.” 10:00 – Entering the white room, the cleansing light, and the “exit interview” perspective. 11:30 – Being shown the nurse's future grief and choosing to return out of compassion. 13:00 – Medical confirmation that the cancer had vanished completely after her return. 17:00 – What it felt like to come back as “Rosemary 2.7” and the struggle of being in a body again. 18:00 – Healing in consciousness first, and how the body follows spiritual instruction. 20:00 – Why she believes spiritual healing is the next frontier in medicine. 41:00 – The angelic visitation in church that brought instant physical healing.48:00 – How she views divine help, calling on angels, and receiving unexpected earthly support.52:00 – Sharing her story as a quiet ministry: helping others heal, pray, and feel less alone.57:00 – Navigating world cStep Into Clear, Confident ChannelingDiscover a safe and sovereign path to your natural source of higher guidance.This 6-week live course is your foundation for all channeling — a guided journey with Andrea Kennedy and the Emissaries of Light to help you release doubt, anchor trust, and live in alignment with higher wisdom.https://www.mainstreamreiki.com/channel-your-divine-selfAndrea's Links: https://beacons.ai/andrea_kennedy Andrea's Reiki Business Success Course:https://www.mainstreamreiki.com/reiki-business-success-course Visit our website Visit our Amazon Shop Sponsored by The Mainstream Reiki Community https://members.mainstreamreiki.com/ HealthyLine offers revolutionary PEMF and far-infrared mats. Get 10% off and free shipping in the continental US with code "Mainstream10FS". What Resonates? is produced by Twisted Spur MediaAndrea may earn money through Amazon for qualifying purchases.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program do not reflect those of the podcast or anyone affiliated with its production. This program is presented for entertainment purposes only. The utilization of the information provided is at the listener's own discretion.

This presentation by Dr. Daniel Lee, titled “Family and the Bible,” was recorded on October 7, 2025. The lecture is part of the 2025 conference “Biblical Theology in Asian America: Family, Migration, and Divine Presence,” presented by the Center for Asian American Christianity at Princeton Theological Seminary and co-hosted with Fuller Theological Seminary's Chinese Studies Center. You can learn more about this conference here: https://ptsem.edu/academics/centers/center-for-asian-american-christianity/btiaa2025/.This lecture is a response to Dr. Roger Nam's lecture “Family, Migration, and Economic Survival in the Hebrew Bible: What If ‘Honor Your Father' Isn't the Whole Story?,” Dr. Chloe Sun's lecture “Between Wrestling and Blessing: Jacob and his Messy Family,” and Jessica ChenFeng's lecture “Relating to the Internal and Relational Wrestlings of Bible Characters: Jacob's Family in Context.” You can find the recordings here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxGLEaf5FKyHCuImKVmKQRkjPTC67D5gK&si=KJWHpK74BbUmyAKkTime Stamps00:49 Introducing Dr. Daniel D. Lee02:35 Reading Scripture with an Asian American Lens04:11 The Role of Family in Theology06:13 The Doctrine of Scripture and Illumination08:09 Wrestling with God: A Covenantal Relationship12:00 Empathy and Understanding in Asian American Context22:02 Family and Migration: The Asian American Experience25:42 Racialization and Family Values38:13 Critical Awareness in Reading ScripturePhoto by Annie Spratt on Unsplash This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caacptsem.substack.com

This is the fourth episode in a series based on my upcoming book, The Friend at the End, which tells the story of the major stroke that I suffered in 2011, which very nearly killed me. In the last episode, I had continued my inner conversation with an unseen presence who had begun to introduce me to the idea that I might be dying.           He suggested that I make the effort to get ready, but as I started to consider the idea, I had some trouble with it and felt like I was failing. Then the presence said to me, "Here, let me help you with this. Did 'ja learn anything?           Now, the story continues…   "Did I learn anything?" My God, what a simple little question! And asked in the most casual, way. Like from his tone, he could've just as well asked me if I had eaten a lot of pizza in my life, that's about how important it seemed. My initial reaction was no reaction at all, and I drew a complete blank. But then, something unexpected happened. Suddenly, a series of pictures began appearing in my mind's eye. The pictures were all of me, in different stages of my life. They went through linear time, beginning on the day I was born. There were so many of them, it almost seemed like there was one for every day of my life.  It was weird because they seemed to be moving very fast and very slow at the same time.   Although I clearly recognized each one of them and remembered the experiences they showed, rather than stirring up memories, I was just extracting the essence of the feelings that I'd had during them - happy, sad, amazed, confused, and on and on. Finally, after every age of my life and every role that I had played had been presented, the last picture I saw was of me at this very second, sitting in my bathing suit at the swimming pool, looking at all these pictures. Then my mind went back to normal and the episode, or whatever it was, ended. I guess you could call it a life review of some kind. But before I could give it any thought, another image came into my mind's eye. This time, it wasn't a still picture, it was more like a movie, and I was in it and watching it at the same time. I was in a small boat on a river and the boat kept changing forms.  For a little while, it was a standard row boat and I was rowing it. Then it changed to a canoe and I was paddling it. Then it became a small motor boat and I was in the back, steering it by moving the motor. Then it went back to being a row boat again, and it just kept switching forms. All of a sudden, I was teleported up to the inside of an airplane that was flying high above the river. I kept switching viewpoints, from being on the boat to being on the plane. Then, in the next instant, I was rowing the boat down the river and flying in the plane above it, both at the same time. I was in two places at once, and fully conscious of each. The river had a lot of twists and turns to it, and from the viewpoint of being in the boat, you could only see what was in front of you. You couldn't see beyond the next bend. But the vantage point from the plane was totally different. I could see the whole river, all at once. I could look back to where it had begun, I could see all the way forward to the point where it finally merged into the ocean. Then, at one point, all of the pictures of my life that I had reviewed earlier, flashed in front of me once again. But this time, the scenes went by in what seemed like just a few seconds. Then it all vanished from my mind and I was back in normal life, sitting on my chair near the pool. The whole thing had taken me by surprise and it left me with a lot to absorb. Slowly, a series of realizations and understandings began to dawn on me. The first one was that even though I knew that I might be dying and I had just seen pictures from every stage of my life, I felt no real attachment to any of it. It may seem odd, but it's pretty simple. My father had died from a massive heart attack when I was sixteen, and his sudden death forced me to accept the harsh reality of the impermanence of all life on earth. I had no other choice. We all have to go one day, and I had been living with that understanding for almost fifty years, knowing that you just have to surrender to it, come what may. After reviewing all the pictures I had seen, although I felt a lot of happiness and appreciation for the days gone by, they clearly belonged to the past. Looking at them had been like revisiting fond memories of a place that didn't exist anymore, and from experience I knew that there is no real power in memories. The power is in the intelligence that is doing the remembering. So, from the perspective of looking back on my life, if my time had actually come, I had no regrets about it. There was nothing left undone and what will be, will be. I moved from thinking about the pictures to reflecting on the whole sequence with the boat on the river and the plane flying above it, and some profound realizations came to me. While riding in the boat, the turns in the river were like going through all the day-to-day experiences of my life. Like everything else that is subject to time, they all came and went, seeming so real while they lasted, only to eventually fade away, like a passing dream.  And the fact that the boat kept changing forms represented the way that my body and mind had kept changing forms as I went through the natural growth cycle from baby to adult and beyond. The fact that I could never see beyond the next bend in the river was a reminder of the uncertainty we all face in our lives. No matter what we hope or expect, we can never really know what's coming around the next corner. But the view from the plane was the opposite. From there, I could see the whole river from beginning to end, and my intuition told me that the entirety of the river itself represented my conscious awareness, my essential self, as it passed through all the twists and turns of my life. This was critically important for me because I had always felt that there must be some higher purpose to life other than just running around trying to fulfill your dreams and desires. Otherwise, it just didn't make any sense, because no matter what you end up getting, you lose it all in the end anyway.   Of course, we all have our own personal views, but for me, the idea really got driven home by my father's death. Not only was it a major shock, but there were also some very unusual and rather metaphysical things that happened to me during it that made me feel that there was more to life than meets the eye. By the age of twenty-two, I had begun a serious study of all the higher understandings about life that I could find, including practicing a powerful form of mediation that helped accelerate my inner growth. Nurturing and expanding my higher awareness had remained the primary focus of my entire adult life. Now, as I was pondering the idea of the flow of the whole river representing the evolution of my consciousness, I realized how much I had grown as a human being in my life. I had gone from having the dull consciousness of a shallow creature, almost robotically programmed into ignorance by an unenlightened society, into one who had explored the depths of his being, connected with the higher awareness within, and had led a profound life, filled with meaning, freedom, fulfillment and ever-expanding inner growth and happiness. Of course, there had been an endless amount of twist and turns along the way, but because I had been growing, the challenging ups and downs had only made me stronger. And now, like a farmer who had been nurturing his crops for a very long season, I was deeply gratified with the yield. "My God, this certainly wasn't a wasted trip," I thought. "What a life of learning!" And with that thought, the unseen power of my unseen friend's casual question really hit me. His simple, off-hand inquiry, "Did 'ja learn anything" had triggered all this, bringing the value of inner growth to the forefront and making it clear that while you may have to leave it all at the end, you do get to keep what you learn, because that evolution of your consciousness becomes an actual part of you. Now, the most important point became clear to me. I was deeply grateful for the life I had been given and had made the most of it. I had grown into a better human being and was satisfied with the person I had become. I felt complete.  Then I thought of the image of the river again and pictured it merging into the ocean, and I recalled something I once learned in school. The ocean has a powerful, magnetic attraction that draws the river towards it, pulling it back into its source.  As it gets closer to the ocean, the current of the river gets stronger and it starts flowing faster and faster, almost like it can't wait for the merging to happen. There was something not only comforting, but also enticing about the idea, and I felt that if my personal river was about to merge into the vastness of its original source, I was ready for it. Bring it on. Then, with a sublimely steady sense of clarity in my heart and mind, I finally turned my attention to my unseen friend and said with calm assurance, "OK. If this really is the end of my life, then the answer is - yes, I am ready,"            "Good," it said. "Good."           Once again, everything went quiet and still. I figured my life was over and we'd be leaving soon for whatever came next. "OK, now listen," it said, somewhat softly "This may not make sense to you now, but the truth is, no one knows whether you're going to live or die from what's happening to you.  It's just not known at this time. It can go either way. You could get better quickly or you could get taken out just as quickly. It's just not determined yet. But either way, you know how to handle this," it said calmly. "You know what to do now." My awareness shifted and once again I became fully conscious of my body as I was lying on the lounge chair. Although my vision was still seriously impaired, it had gotten slightly better and I could see a little bit.   I could feel the breath coming in and going out of me, like it always does, but now, I started focusing on it much more deeply. Being in tune with the breath was always a major part of my practice and I had done it for decades, but it was different now. Now, it wasn't just about relaxation, clarity of mind, or elevation of consciousness. Now it was about survival.  As I felt the rise and fall of each breath, the presence of my unseen friend remained clear. It felt more familiar to me now than ever, but I still couldn't put my finger on how or why. It just seemed to be a part of me, but not a part of me at the same time. I knew that my fate was undetermined, so, I just let go and surrendered to the power that was sustaining me through the lifeline of my breath. "Good," the presence said, encouragingly.  "By the bridge of your breath, just stay in the safety of the Divine Presence that's within you. No matter what happens now, whether you live or die, that's always where your real shelter is." In the next instant, the presence was gone and I knew it. I was on my own now, just taking each breath as it came to me, one at a time.   Well, that's the end of this episode. As always, keep your eyes, mind and heart opened, and let's get together in the next one.

WelcomeIn this episode I open my heart and invite you into one of the most intimate portals of my life. I share about the death of my mother, the intensity of the last month, and what it really means to sit in the room with death. This is a raw, tender transmission recorded after a day of many tears, with silence, emotion and codes for you if you are willing to receive them.Episode SummaryI take you through my mother's long, gradual decline and the moment of her passing. I speak about how she seemed to be slowly turning into thin air, while her strong personality stayed present almost until the last breath. I share the sacred call to clear my day, sit by her side, hold her hand, call in the angels and witness her soul leaving her body.I also speak honestly about our complicated relationship. I was harmed by her behaviour for years and I had to do deep work to liberate myself and to liberate her. In her final hours I returned to her bedside, gave back what was never mine to carry and chose what I am willing to continue, heal and honour from her lineage. In that moment we reorganised the heritage between us so we could both be free.I reflect on the strange contrast between a whole life ending and the world carrying on as usual, the bureaucracy that surrounds death, and the small signs Spirit sent me, including the number 17:17. More than anything, I share the holiness of a single exhale that is not followed by another inhale, and the realisation that the Divine presence that animated my mother is the same presence that is breathing you now.Key TakeawaysDeath is a sacred portal that our culture often hides from us.You can study death, yet being in the room with it is a different initiation.You can energetically return what is not yours to carry, even at the threshold of death.A whole life completes in one exhale, and the same Divine breath is alive in you now.If you are walking with grief, sitting with someone you love at the edge of life, or simply feeling called to deepen your relationship with death and with your own breath, I am holding you in my heart as you listen. Thank you for being here with me in this tender space. If this episode speaks to you, please share it with someone who might need these words today.I'd love to hear your thoughts, text the show. Homaya Resource Links: Website: https://homaya.org/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homaya/ Free Light Imprint Quiz: https://homaya.org/lightactivatorquiz Soul Contract Activation Meditations: https://homaya.org/the-calling-podcast

This presentation by Dr. Jessica ChenFeng, LMFT, titled “Relating to the Internal and Relational Wrestlings of Bible Characters: Jacob's Family in Context,” was recorded on October 7, 2025. The lecture is part of the 2025 conference “Biblical Theology in Asian America: Family, Migration, and Divine Presence,” presented by the Center for Asian American Christianity at Princeton Theological Seminary and co-hosted with Fuller Theological Seminary's Chinese Studies Center. You can learn more about this conference here: https://ptsem.edu/academics/centers/center-for-asian-american-christianity/btiaa2025/.Description: “We each grew up with a relationship to characters of the Bible: which character was someone to emulate? Who was not the ideal model for a leader, a parent, or spouse? These assessments can sometimes parallel the way our families talked about relatives or community members: the good daughter who takes care of her parents, the terrible church elder who squandered money or the faithful pastor who sacrifices so much. In this presentation, we consider Jacob's family system: intergenerational and gendered hopes, betrayal, alignment and rejection that allow us opportunities to connect with their contextual realities and curiosities for our own Asian American Christian lives today. We will consider the complex nuances of Bible characters beyond the one-dimensional individual perspectives of their personhood and behaviors.“This presentation will invite attendees to reconsider our assessments (judgements) of Bible characters and increase our empathy (of others and self) through understanding Jacob's family with a sociocontextual and relational lens. It will highlight relationships in context, reflecting on dynamics of rupture and opportunities for repair.”Jessica ChenFeng, PhD, LMFT is an associate professor of marriage and family therapy at Fuller Theological Seminary. She has been a practicing MFT for almost 20 years and consults with academic, healthcare and church organizations to improve the well-being of people within their relationships and communities. She is the director of Fuller's Asian American Well-being Collaboratory. Her research, clinical and community work center around Asian American identities/relationships, generation, trauma, and Christian spirituality. She resides in the greater Los Angeles area with her spouse and two children. Whenever she gets the chance, she loves reconnecting with her love for analogue: paper planners and stationery, baking, and sewing.Time Stamps:00:51 Introducing Dr. Jessica ChenFeng02:11 Dr. ChenFeng's Personal Journey and Calling04:24 Exploring Wellbeing and Belonging06:11 Engaging with Bible Characters in Context12:25 Intergenerational Impacts and Personal Stories19:44 Understanding Relationships and Systems23:57 Empathy and Complexity in Relationships35:17 Conclusion: Pursuing Fullness of LifePhoto by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caacptsem.substack.com

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore the beloved Christmas story from Luke 2 in this special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day episode. While the Narrative Lectionary typically follows the Gospel of John this year, the hosts return to Luke's account because "you got to have the shepherds and the angels at Christmas." This conversation moves beyond sentimentality to reveal the cosmic significance of Christ's birth and its enduring power to speak to experiences of both homecoming and dislocation. TIMECODES: 00:00 Christmas Reflections: Homecoming and Tradition 02:52 The Significance of Dislocation and Divine Presence 06:08 Hospitality and the Cosmic Nature of Christmas 09:00 The Fulfillment of Promises and the Birth of a Savior

Where is God present—and how do believers describe it? In this thoughtful and poetic episode, Polish theologian Dr. Elżbieta Łazarewicz-Wyrzykowska joins Dru Johnson to reflect on theology, trauma, and spiritual presence. From her childhood in Warsaw—where bullet holes and tanks marked the legacy of war—to her academic path through Hebrew Bible, literary theory, and empirical psychology, Elżbieta has never stopped asking difficult questions. They discuss her research into the Book of Amos using the philosophical insights of Mikhail Bakhtin, seeing God as the “author” of Israel and disobedience as a form of anti-creation. They also explore her current interdisciplinary work in the psychology of religion: “We tried to measure where people locate God's presence. Eucharist was the one thing people named first.” She reflects on the tension between empirical categories and theological meaning: “God is present in special objects” didn't resonate. But “God is present in the Eucharist”? That made sense. “I still wanted to be faithful to what the community told me.” This episode is a masterclass in humility, scholarship, and the quiet brilliance of a scholar working at the intersection of Scripture, philosophy, trauma, and pastoral care. We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 02:49 Warsaw: A City of Resilience 06:06 The Impact of Historical Trauma 08:41 Academic Journey in Hebrew Bible Studies 11:49 Literary and Philosophical Approaches to the Hebrew Bible 14:35 Interdisciplinary Work and Its Challenges 17:38 Exploring Bakhtin's Influence 20:31 The Book of Amos: A Case Study 23:42 Theological Measures and Empirical Research 26:35 The Role of Practical Theology 29:45 Conclusion and Future Directions

The Magical Mitzvah that Reveals the Divine Line – Key Takeaways Baruch Gartner explores the unique power of Tzedakah (charity) and why it is considered equal to all other mitzvahs in the Torah. Based on teachings from Rabbi Nachman and Rabbi Nassen, Tzedakah helps remove the spiritual "shadow" cast by our physical nature, which blocks the divine light from entering our lives. Giving charity is described as a way to reveal Hashem's (God's) glory in the world and in our personal lives, dissolving lack and hardship. Tzedakah atones for transgressions by removing partitions that disconnect us from the Divine Presence. The ultimate goal of all mitzvahs is to experience and reveal the honor and glory of Hashem—Tzedakah, more than any other mitzvah, directly achieves this. This practice is described as “the way of Avraham Avinu”—living in alignment with the Divine, bringing light and sweetness into the world through generosity. Listen in to discover how Tzedakah is not just charity, but a powerful spiritual tool for transformation and divine connection!

It's hard to see what the Roman Catholic Church finds so threatening about women leaders when Denise Hackert-Stoner of Albany describes her Upper Room Inclusive Catholic Community. She's been excommunicated from the traditional Church since her ordination and sees little prospect of it dropping its ban on women priests at least in her lifetime despite the massive pedophile priest scandal plaguing the institution. Women priests demand engagement, charity, compassion, beauty and see themselves as renegades.Denise Hackert-Stoner is an ordained priest in the Association of Roman Catholic Women Priests, and an active member of the Upper Room Inclusive Catholic Community in Albany, NY. As a presider in this community she prepares and participates in church celebrations, and sacramental occasions. She is also in direct service ministries along with friends at the Upper Room catering to the poor, immigrants and refugees. As a nature photographer, she can often be found out on a trail with her husband Scott, often on her knees or belly, inspecting some tiny living thing. Amazed at the beauty of nature and the Divine Presence in all of it, she records her thoughts in a weekly Substack in essays called Walking on God. She also uses her own and Scott's images to illustrate music used in liturgies at the Upper Room. You can reach Denise at denisehstoner@aol.com, and you can read her Substack at https://denisehackertstoner.substack.com/

reference: Sri Aurobindo, Bases of Yoga, Chapter 2, Faith — Aspiration — Surrender, pg. 33This episode is also available as a blog post at https://sriaurobindostudies.wordpress.com/2025/11/06/the-psychic-being-senses-the-divine-presence-and-guidance/Video presentations, interviews and podcast episodes are allavailable on the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@santoshkrinsky871More information about Sri Aurobindo can be found at www.aurobindo.net  The US editions and links to e-book editions of SriAurobindo's writings can be found at Lotus Press www.lotuspress.com

The journey inward was never meant to end in hiding—it was preparation for standing in the presence of God.You've turned. You've entered the room. You've been renewed. Now comes the breathtaking conclusion: Before the Throne—where sacred surrender transforms into sacred confidence.In this powerful series finale, host Donald E. Coleman reveals the divine mystery woven through Hebrews 4 and Hebrews 10: God showed us the destination first (access to the Most Holy Place), then walked us back through the pathway that gets us there. This isn't just about finding rest—it's about discovering bold, grace-based access to the throne of God.Drawing from Hebrews 4:12-16, Donald unpacks how the Living Word that pierces us is the same High Priest who welcomes us. The secret place that exposed your heart becomes the launching point for a life lived in divine presence.In this episode, you'll discover:How the Living Word has been present in every phase of your journey (The Turn, The Room, The Renewal)Why God's Word pierces—not to condemn, but to heal and make you wholeThe difference between the Word that exposes and the High Priest who receivesHow Jesus modeled the complete pathway: from desert to withdrawal to presentation to intercessionThe stunning connection between Hebrews 4 and Hebrews 10—and why the Spirit revealed them in reverse orderWhat it means to approach the throne of grace with confidence, not because of who you are but because of who Jesus isWhy the secret place prepares you for boldness, not just intimacyThis episode is for you if:You've done the inner work, but wonder what comes nextYou struggle to believe you have real access to God's presenceYou feel stuck between hiding in shame and striving for approvalYou want to understand what "drawing near with confidence" actually meansYou're ready to live not from effort but from grace-based access to the throneThe Complete Journey:The Turn (Matthew 4:17) — You reoriented your soul through metanoiaThe Room (Matthew 6:6) — You entered hidden communion with the FatherThe Renewal (Romans 12:1-2) — You were transformed by surrendered presenceThe Throne (Hebrews 4:12-16) — You stand boldly before the throne of graceThis is where letting go leads you: not to emptiness, but to fullness. Not to withdraw, but to welcome. Not to silence, but to standing in the presence of the One who sees you, knows you, and invites you to come boldly.The pathway of sacred surrender ends where it always should: before the throne of grace, held by the High Priest who understands your weakness and meets you with mercy."Have Questions, Send us a Message" This podcast is a production of The Center for Biblical Coaching and Leadership. If this episode has been useful or inspiring to you in any way, please share it with someone else. Lastly, please follow the show and write a review.If you want to go deeper on this journey, visit www.tcbcl.org to learn how we're walking this path together through biblical coaching, spiritual formation, and the ROOTED Global Movement.

Better Homes and Garden The last several newsletters have investigated the Torah's ancient call to hospitality, not just a a nice thing to do, but as a vital preparation to inherit the Kingdom. Our hospitality study trail through the Torah, Prophets, Writings, and New Covenant started with Song of Songs 5:1, a restoration of the Bride and Bridegroom to the Garden of Eden: "I have come into my garden, my sister, my bride; I have gathered my myrrh along with my balsam.I have eaten my honeycomb and my honey; I have drunk my wine and my milk. Eat, friends; drink and imbibe deeply, O lovers.” This hospitality verse is thought to be one source for the traditional belief that the four rivers of Eden flow with milk, honey, wine, and balsam. In past newsletters, we made the connection between hospitality to the needy and the righteous stranger and one's preparation for to inherit, or even just enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Mt 25:34-46). Entering the Father's House, which was prepared for the righteous from the foundation of the world, is contingent upon preparing one's own house. Yeshua will definitely knock on the door! The very light of the earth was sown for the righteous at the beginning (Ps 97:11), the light of the Word of good works for them to walk in eternally (Eph 2:10). A better garden will be filled with the multiplication of human beings, the precious crown of creation created to fellowship with the Holy One Himself. Yeshua taught his disciples that the "rooms" of the Garden, their eternal home of inheritance, are being prepared for them, yet they also must prepare to inherit by preparing their own homes on earth. This would cause the Presence of the Creator to dwell comfortably in them. Better home, better Garden. "Depart from evil and do good, so you will abide forever. For the LORD loves justice and does not forsake His godly ones; they are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be cut off. The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever." (Ps 37:27-29) ?????????? ??????????????? ????????????? ????? ???????? The commentators to the verse in Song of Songs 5:1 connect it to Psalm 37:27-29 above in the Midrash Rabbah and write, ”The word yishkenu should not be translated as ‘they will dwell,' but as a causative verb in the present tense, ‘They cause to dwell.'” “If only the righteous dwell upon the earth, what will the wicked do? Shall they fly in the air? Rather, the verse means that the wicked did not cause the Divine Presence to dwell on earth, but the righteous did cause the Divine Presence to dwell on earth.” (5§1) In yishkenu, you see the root of shachan, "to dwell," and the "Shechinah," or indwelling Presence. The Presence of the Creator Elohim has always longed to have an intimate relationship with human beings. He did not appoint them to rule of the earth in order to be a distant, cold judge of their actions, but so they would administer on His behalf according to His will because His Word was alive in them through fellowship. They would be able rulers because of their daily walking and talking in the special abode, the Garden of Eden. The Garden is thought to hover just above the Land of Israel, its centerpoint over Jerusalem. From there the Kingdom will be administered by Yeshua. The righteous are those whose lives are a home of hospitality to the Presence of Elohim. They CAUSE Him to descend for the fellowship He longs for with His creation. Inheriting the Land of Israel, the administrative center of the entire earth, is a matter of preparation. Even in Revelation 21:2, the Bride is described as the inhabitants of New Jerusalem “prepared for her husband.” Prepared. Prepared. Who is the Bride? Those who prepared the better Garden, working the will of the Word in their lives, which affects what Yeshua prepares for them in the Third Heaven, or the Garden of Eden. Is there something in our hospitality study to connect us to this Third Heaven?

Drew Moss

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Tractate Bava Metzia 84a, focusing on the profound relationship between Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish, their transformative encounter, and the tragic fallout of their dispute. The episode delves into themes of Torah's transformative power, respect for teachers, self-sufficiency, and the Jewish people's global mission. Key points include:Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish's Encounter: Rabbi Yochanan, swimming in the Jordan River, is pursued by Reish Lakish, a highway robber. Rabbi Wolbe digresses to note the Jordan's flow from the sweet Sea of Galilee (a “giver”) to the bitter Dead Sea (a “taker”), symbolizing the sweetness of giving. Rabbi Yochanan praises Reish Lakish's strength, suggesting he redirect it to Torah study, while Reish Lakish retorts that Rabbi Yochanan's beauty suits women. Rabbi Yochanan offers his sister in marriage if Reish Lakish repents, leading to his transformation. Reish Lakish weakens physically upon accepting Torah, as Torah shifts focus from physical to spiritual pursuits, consuming one's energy (6:11–9:54).Torah's Transformative Power: Rabbi Wolbe explains that Torah is not just a subject but a “sam hachaim” (elixir of life), weakening physical desires to strengthen spiritual ones. Reish Lakish's sudden weakness reflects Torah's overwhelming influence, countering the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination), which distracts from study (e.g., causing sleepiness or daydreaming, per Psalms 20). This underscores the incompatibility of material and spiritual pursuits, critiquing modern attempts to “have it all” (e.g., 2008 mortgage crisis).Their Dispute and Tragedy: Years later, as scholars, they debate when a vessel becomes susceptible to tumah (ritual impurity): Rabbi Yochanan says when metals are fused; Reish Lakish says when polished. Rabbi Yochanan's comment, “A thief knows the tools of thievery,” is meant constructively but offends Reish Lakish, who retorts, “How have you benefited me?” Rabbi Yochanan responds that he brought him under the Divine Presence. Reish Lakish's disrespect causes divine retribution, leading to his illness and death. Rabbi Yochanan's sister pleads for mercy, but he cites verses (Jeremiah 49:11) to prioritize divine justice, as Reish Lakish's contempt endangered their bond and the nation's spiritual integrity (29:34–32:14).Rabbi Yochanan's Grief: Rabbi Yochanan is heartbroken, grieving Reish Lakish's loss. A new student, Rabbi Elazar ben Pedas, merely affirms Rabbi Yochanan's teachings, unlike Reish Lakish's challenging 24 questions and answers, which clarified Torah through debate. Rabbi Yochanan's anguish drives him to madness, and the rabbis pray for his death, as his bond with Reish Lakish was central to his existence (50:30–54:38)._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 24, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Yochanan, #ReishLakish, #BavaMitzia, #mentorship, #parenting, #marriage, #authority, #respect, #leadership, #reverence ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Tractate Bava Metzia 84a, focusing on the profound relationship between Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish, their transformative encounter, and the tragic fallout of their dispute. The episode delves into themes of Torah's transformative power, respect for teachers, self-sufficiency, and the Jewish people's global mission. Key points include:Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish's Encounter: Rabbi Yochanan, swimming in the Jordan River, is pursued by Reish Lakish, a highway robber. Rabbi Wolbe digresses to note the Jordan's flow from the sweet Sea of Galilee (a “giver”) to the bitter Dead Sea (a “taker”), symbolizing the sweetness of giving. Rabbi Yochanan praises Reish Lakish's strength, suggesting he redirect it to Torah study, while Reish Lakish retorts that Rabbi Yochanan's beauty suits women. Rabbi Yochanan offers his sister in marriage if Reish Lakish repents, leading to his transformation. Reish Lakish weakens physically upon accepting Torah, as Torah shifts focus from physical to spiritual pursuits, consuming one's energy (6:11–9:54).Torah's Transformative Power: Rabbi Wolbe explains that Torah is not just a subject but a “sam hachaim” (elixir of life), weakening physical desires to strengthen spiritual ones. Reish Lakish's sudden weakness reflects Torah's overwhelming influence, countering the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination), which distracts from study (e.g., causing sleepiness or daydreaming, per Psalms 20). This underscores the incompatibility of material and spiritual pursuits, critiquing modern attempts to “have it all” (e.g., 2008 mortgage crisis).Their Dispute and Tragedy: Years later, as scholars, they debate when a vessel becomes susceptible to tumah (ritual impurity): Rabbi Yochanan says when metals are fused; Reish Lakish says when polished. Rabbi Yochanan's comment, “A thief knows the tools of thievery,” is meant constructively but offends Reish Lakish, who retorts, “How have you benefited me?” Rabbi Yochanan responds that he brought him under the Divine Presence. Reish Lakish's disrespect causes divine retribution, leading to his illness and death. Rabbi Yochanan's sister pleads for mercy, but he cites verses (Jeremiah 49:11) to prioritize divine justice, as Reish Lakish's contempt endangered their bond and the nation's spiritual integrity (29:34–32:14).Rabbi Yochanan's Grief: Rabbi Yochanan is heartbroken, grieving Reish Lakish's loss. A new student, Rabbi Elazar ben Pedas, merely affirms Rabbi Yochanan's teachings, unlike Reish Lakish's challenging 24 questions and answers, which clarified Torah through debate. Rabbi Yochanan's anguish drives him to madness, and the rabbis pray for his death, as his bond with Reish Lakish was central to his existence (50:30–54:38)._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 24, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Yochanan, #ReishLakish, #BavaMitzia, #mentorship, #parenting, #marriage, #authority, #respect, #leadership, #reverence ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to see a Eucharistic miracle? Mary Jane Fox shares three powerful stories from across the world that remind us that Jesus is truly with us in the Eucharist at every Mass. Listen and be inspired to grow in faith and love for the Lord who is always present on the altar. In this episode, you will discover: What is the Eucharist? Be introduced to Eucharistic miracles from Italy, France, and Mexico. Hear how these miraculous events reaffirm our faith and give us hope for our daily lives. Click here to visit the official webpage for this episode. Get More Out of Your Journey: Eucharistic Miracle Website created by St. Carlo Acutis Jewel for the Journey: “In the humble signs of bread and wine, changed into his body and blood, Christ walks beside us as our strength and our food for the journey, and he enables us to become, for everyone, witnesses of hope.” - Pope St. John Paul II (Ecclesia de Eucharistia, April 17, 2003) Do you like what you hear? Become a Missionary of Hope by sponsoring a week of Journeys of Hope. Click here to get started. Learn more at https://pilgrimcenterofhope.org/media-and-resources/all-media-series/journeys-of-hope.html Help us spread hope! https://pilgrimcenterofhope.org/support

Watch the full episode with Jeffery Olsen here: https://youtu.be/ctc7JC3XYXISupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/inspiredevolution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeffery reminds us that even in the light, we're given choice—to collapse into guilt…or to return and choose love. That's not just his story, it's not just theory; it's a practice.If you're feeling called to practice that choice in real life—with people who get it—we co-created the Inspired Evolution Circle with you, our community, for exactly this: weekly practices, real conversations, and live sessions with guests like Jeffery.

 In this episode, we sit down with Karoleen Fober, best-selling author of Opening to Divine Intervention: Expand and Strengthen Your Intuitive Abilities and Spiritual Connection, to explore the profound power of intuition and spiritual guidance. Karoleen, a spiritual teacher and intuitive coach with nearly 25 years of experience, shares her insights into how we can actively engage with the metaphysical world and strengthen our divine connection. Karoleen's mission is to help people unlock their spiritual gifts and understand the messages they receive from the divine to create more love, healing, and clarity in their lives. In this conversation, you'll learn: True stories of divine intervention and how they shape spiritual journeys. The benefits of developing and trusting your intuition. How to demystify spiritual connectivity and open yourself to divine guidance. Practical ways to manifest your desires and enhance your spiritual life. Whether you're looking to connect more deeply with your intuition or seeking guidance in your spiritual growth, this episode offers transformative insights to enrich your life. Want to learn more about Karoleen and her work? Visit KaroleenFober.com today! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr Keep up with Karoleen Fober socials here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Karoleen-Fober/61553203475055/?_rdr 

This week, we'll be studying Genesis 16:1-16 under the theme "God Sees You." In their long wait for a child, Abram and Sarai, acting as if God needed their help, took matters into their own hands—a decision that led to scheming, blame, and the mistreatment of their servant, Hagar. But in her desperate flight, Hagar was found by the Angel of the LORD. In an act of profound insight, she gave a name to the God who met her in the wilderness: El Roi, "the God who sees me." Her story assures us that, even when we feel completely invisible, we are seen, known, and sought by a God who meets us in our pain.Series Summary: Our fall worship series will lead us through the Book of Genesis, arguably the most profound, insightful text in human history. Over this series, we'll uncover how the narratives of Genesis reveal God's design for creation, humanity, relationships, and purpose. We'll explore truths that continue to shape our lives today, from the Garden of Eden to the promise of redemption.Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

2025 Missions Sermon Series, The Fuel for Missions Rev. Kirk Norris

Questions? Comments? Text Us!Five years. 250 episodes. Countless stories of faith, struggle, and discovery.This milestone episode of God: An Autobiography, The Podcast is a deep reflection on what it means to grow spiritually through suffering, to find joy again, and to experience divine love as a personal reality.In this special episode, Scott, Jerry, Abigail, Laura, and Mandi come together to look back on the last five years and explore how this project has transformed each of them.You'll hear moments of vulnerability, laughter, and insight as we talk about:Suffering and the Law of Growth – Jerry shares God's teaching that suffering is not meaningless but the very path by which we grow. He describes the moment he realized that God suffers with us — that when we feel pain, God says “ouch” too.A God Who Feels With Us – Scott reflects on his acting career and the way embodying pain on stage helped him understand the personal God who is fully present in our lives.Breaking Free From Spiritual Abuse – Mandi opens up about growing up in a controlling family, being told belief in God was foolish, and finally finding the courage to pray. Her first prayer was a desperate request for a job with meaning — and it was answered, leading her to this project.Love That Disrupts and Heals – Abigail tells the story of falling in love with Jerry, trying to remain detached, and eventually surrendering to a love that upended her carefully ordered life — and changed it forever.Wisdom Across Generations – Laura reflects on how her role has evolved over the years and how focusing on her own spiritual growth allows her to comfort and encourage others. Together, the team discusses how this project invites listeners into the New Axial Age — a time when wisdom from all spiritual traditions is brought together to illuminate a richer, more connected path forward.Start at the Beginning: Listen to Episode 1 to hear the complete dramatic adaptation of God: An Autobiography, As Told to a Philosopher.Read the Book: Get your copy at Amazon or godanautobiography.com.Share Your Story: Email us at questions@godanautobiography.com — we'd love to hear your spiritual story and may feature it on a future episode.Other Series:The podcast began with the Dramatic Adaptation of the book and now has several series:From God to Jerry to You – Divine messages and breakthroughs for seekers.Jerry & Abigail: An Intimate Dialogue – Love, faith, and divine presence in partnership.What's Your Spiritual Story – Real stories of people changed by encounters with God.What's On Our MiShare Your Story | Site | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

In this re-air of the Jaime Luce Podcast, we revisit one of the most powerful encounters in Scripture: Moses at the burning bush. When Moses asked, “Who am I that I should go?” God answered, “I Am Who I Am.” This episode will encourage you that no matter your past, your failures, or your feelings of inadequacy, God is the One who matters. He sees, He remembers, He hears, and He acts. Just as He called Moses, He is calling you and He promises to be with you every step of the way. What you'll learn in this episode: Why God calls us even when we feel unqualifiedThe meaning behind “I Am Who I Am”How to recognize holy ground moments in your lifeWhy deliverance begins with obedienceHow God uses ordinary people to fulfill extraordinary plans If you've ever felt like you don't have what it takes, this message will remind you: You don't need to be enough—God is. Don't miss this powerful word from Exodus 2–3. Where to dive in: (00:00) God's Call to Moses (13:25) Moses Encounters the Burning Bush (19:49) Divine Encounter (30:25) God's Promise of Deliverance (42:29) God's Call to Obedience and Strength (58:05) Divine Presence and Instruction About your host: Jaime Luce' testimony has daunting personal mountains and treacherous financial valleys. She was trapped in day-to-day stress and couldn't see a way forward. But how she started is not how she finished! And she wants you to know God has a plan for your life too, no matter how tough it seems. Today, Jaime has been married to the love of her life for almost three decades, owns two companies, and has become an author and podcaster. God's way is always the blessed way! Free chapter of Jaime's new book: You Don't Need Money, You Just Need God: https://jaimeluce.com/book/ Connect: - Website: https://jaimeluce.com - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaime.luces.page - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaime_luce/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-luce-00395691/

Opening to Divine Intervention: Expand and Strengthen Your Intuitive Abilities and Spiritual Connection is an Intuitive’s Secrets to Recognize and Decode Divine Messages! How would your life improve if you knew how to receive and interpret your intuition, premonitions, and coincidences? Imagine no longer dismissing or second-guessing yourself when Divine messages show up. In intuitive Karoleen Fober’s, Opening to Divine Intervention, you will see your life in a new way: through the lens of a powerful and loving Divine Presence that invites you to re-investigate your intuitive abilities and become more spiritually connected. Karoleen shares her own life journey as she teaches 15 types of Divine Intervention and her five-step ACUTE System so you can recognize and decode your own messages. In these inspired pages, you will discover: ● Down-to-earth approaches that take the mystery out of connecting spiritually ● Simple tools to expand and strengthen your God-given intuitive abilities ● Practical ways to improve your life: from finding lost items to receiving life-saving directives—and everything in between Her gripping stories of real-life Divine Intervention—sometimes wacky and sometimes heart-breaking—will touch your heart, deepen your learning, and nourish your soul. You will be riveted as she shares miracles, Divine Guidance, premonitions, energetic alignments, self-healings, dreams, a near-death experience (NDE), angels, and more! Watch https://www.transformationtalkradio.com/watch.html

Opening to Divine Intervention: Expand and Strengthen Your Intuitive Abilities and Spiritual Connection is an Intuitive’s Secrets to Recognize and Decode Divine Messages! How would your life improve if you knew how to receive and interpret your intuition, premonitions, and coincidences? Imagine no longer dismissing or second-guessing yourself when Divine messages show up. In intuitive Karoleen Fober’s, Opening to Divine Intervention, you will see your life in a new way: through the lens of a powerful and loving Divine Presence that invites you to re-investigate your intuitive abilities and become more spiritually connected. Karoleen shares her own life journey as she teaches 15 types of Divine Intervention and her five-step ACUTE System so you can recognize and decode your own messages. In these inspired pages, you will discover: ● Down-to-earth approaches that take the mystery out of connecting spiritually ● Simple tools to expand and strengthen your God-given intuitive abilities ● Practical ways to improve your life: from finding lost items to receiving life-saving directives—and everything in between Her gripping stories of real-life Divine Intervention—sometimes wacky and sometimes heart-breaking—will touch your heart, deepen your learning, and nourish your soul. You will be riveted as she shares miracles, Divine Guidance, premonitions, energetic alignments, self-healings, dreams, a near-death experience (NDE), angels, and more! Watch https://www.transformationtalkradio.com/watch.html

Opening to Divine Intervention: Expand and Strengthen Your Intuitive Abilities and Spiritual Connection is an Intuitive’s Secrets to Recognize and Decode Divine Messages! How would your life improve if you knew how to receive and interpret your intuition, premonitions, and coincidences? Imagine no longer dismissing or second-guessing yourself when Divine messages show up. In intuitive Karoleen Fober’s, Opening to Divine Intervention, you will see your life in a new way: through the lens of a powerful and loving Divine Presence that invites you to re-investigate your intuitive abilities and become more spiritually connected. Karoleen shares her own life journey as she teaches 15 types of Divine Intervention and her five-step ACUTE System so you can recognize and decode your own messages. In these inspired pages, you will discover: ● Down-to-earth approaches that take the mystery out of connecting spiritually ● Simple tools to expand and strengthen your God-given intuitive abilities ● Practical ways to improve your life: from finding lost items to receiving life-saving directives—and everything in between Her gripping stories of real-life Divine Intervention—sometimes wacky and sometimes heart-breaking—will touch your heart, deepen your learning, and nourish your soul. You will be riveted as she shares miracles, Divine Guidance, premonitions, energetic alignments, self-healings, dreams, a near-death experience (NDE), angels, and more! Watch https://www.transformationtalkradio.com/watch.html

Opening to Divine Intervention: Expand and Strengthen Your Intuitive Abilities and Spiritual Connection is an Intuitive’s Secrets to Recognize and Decode Divine Messages! How would your life improve if you knew how to receive and interpret your intuition, premonitions, and coincidences? Imagine no longer dismissing or second-guessing yourself when Divine messages show up. In intuitive Karoleen Fober’s, Opening to Divine Intervention, you will see your life in a new way: through the lens of a powerful and loving Divine Presence that invites you to re-investigate your intuitive abilities and become more spiritually connected. Karoleen shares her own life journey as she teaches 15 types of Divine Intervention and her five-step ACUTE System so you can recognize and decode your own messages. In these inspired pages, you will discover: ● Down-to-earth approaches that take the mystery out of connecting spiritually ● Simple tools to expand and strengthen your God-given intuitive abilities ● Practical ways to improve your life: from finding lost items to receiving life-saving directives—and everything in between Her gripping stories of real-life Divine Intervention—sometimes wacky and sometimes heart-breaking—will touch your heart, deepen your learning, and nourish your soul. You will be riveted as she shares miracles, Divine Guidance, premonitions, energetic alignments, self-healings, dreams, a near-death experience (NDE), angels, and more! Watch https://www.transformationtalkradio.com/watch.html

Idol or Angel? Scripture commands us not to make images of things in the earth or in the heavens to worship them. This means different things to different people, even within the Jewish community. It is one of those commandments that drives the reader to its multiple other mentions in Scripture to make full sense of it: “You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth." (Ex 20:4) Some may not possess any figured images, applying the mitzvah very strictly. Others may give their children dolls or have animal sculpture for decoration, applying additional context for the mitzvah, which is having an image for the purpose of worshiping it or acknowledging its power: You shall not make for yourselves idols, nor shall you set up for yourselves an image or a sacred pillar, nor shall you place a figured stone in your land to bow down to it; for I am the LORD your God. (Le 26:1) In this application, a person avoids images of known gods, demons, or symbols denoting such, but does not avoid having photographs, artwork, or objects in the shape of animals or heavenly bodies, etc. The Tabernacle and Temple were decorated with images of both heavenly and earthly objects according to a Divinely-prescribed pattern. The range of interpretations is not unusual, and it lends itself to investigation so that one can learn more about the mitzvah by tracking down every mention of images as idols. This week, we'll take a look at a song traditionally sung on Erev Shabbat to usher in the Divine Presence on Shabbat, for Shabbat is a moed, an appointed time when the Creator of the Universe promises to visit those who tend His Garden. Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs) 5:1 has been our working text for understanding the repopulation of the Garden when the Bride and Bridegroom join the Divine Presence at the wedding feast of resurrection: I have come into my garden, my sister, my bride; I have gathered my myrrh along with my balsam. I have eaten my honeycomb and my honey; I have drunk my wine and my milk. Eat, friends; drink and imbibe deeply, O lovers. This sumptuous wedding meal inaugurates the reign of Messiah Yeshua, for he will return to earth with his holy ones to rule and restore the earth to the purpose for which the Father created it. What we have learned the last few weeks is that earthly hospitality to the righteous brother or sister is the Torah's pattern of preparation for the restoration of all things. Following our lesson on Avraham and the angels last week, let's pick up this week with Yeshua's reiteration of hospitality. A righteous guest seeks a righteous home for hospitality, and he/she has the authority to bless that home with peace: “Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support. And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. As you enter the house, give it your greeting. If the house is worthy, give it your blessing of peace. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace. Whoever does not receive you, nor heed your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.” (Mt 10:9-15) Yeshua sent out his disciples as his messengers. They were to practice what they'd seen Yeshua do: teach, preach, immerse, comfort, exhort, rebuke, heal, and so on. The disciples were messengers, sometimes called shliachim in Hebrew for "sent ones." Another word for messenger in Hebrew is malak: ???????? m?l?âk; to despatch as a deputy; a messenger; specifically, of God, i.e. an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher):—ambassador, angel, king, messenger

reference: Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, Looking from Within, Chapter 5, Attitudes on the Path, pp. 167-168This episode is also available as a blog post at https://sriaurobindostudies.wordpress.com/2025/09/07/the-one-essential-thing-in-spiritual-development-is-an-inward-focus-of-the-awareness-on-the-divine-presence/Video presentations, interviews and podcast episodes are allavailable on the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@santoshkrinsky871More information about Sri Aurobindo can be found at www.aurobindo.net  The US editions and links to e-book editions of SriAurobindo's writings can be found at Lotus Press www.lotuspress.com

What's your favorite call to adventure? Christopher Mack hears the call to reconsider our relationship with the status quo as we are invited to daily form Beloved Community. [Luke 14:25-33]   Reflection  Where do you feel an invitation to subvert the values and expectations of the status quo? How might a cruciform vision of spirituality challenge you? Is there a way you might explore the practice of awakening to the Divine Presence daily this week? Resource Book: Everything Belongs: The Gift of Contemplative Prayer  by Richard Rohr Book: Present Perfect: Finding God in the Now by Greg Boyd

Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Rachel NesseThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482847PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new25.08.31

Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Ben BeasleyThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482848PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new25.08.31

Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Manny CheryThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482849PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new25.08.31

Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Bill GormanThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482850PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new25.08.31

Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Jacob VangenThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482846PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2574/responses/new25.08.31

In this episode, Swamiji delves into the nature of God's omnipresence as explored in the Ishavasya Upanishad, urging listeners to renounce material attachments and embrace a mindset centered on spirituality. Expect to learn about the distinction between the sentient and insentient aspects of existence, and how misperceptions can hinder our connection to the divine. Swamiji emphasizes the importance of transforming our mindset to prioritize service over ownership, highlighting how true fulfillment transcends material wealth. Building upon our previous episode about inner peace and understanding pain as a teacher, this discussion further enriches your understanding of how detachment from material pleasures leads to a deeper spiritual purpose. Tune in to deepen your journey into the philosophical depths of the Upanishads and enrich your quest for truth and enlightenment, transforming your perspective on life's transient treasures.

Receiving a sign from God may seem rare, but what if you could learn to receive and interpret your intuition, premonitions, and coincidences in a way that improves your spiritual connection? What does it mean to truly experience genuine contact with the metaphysical, the mystical, and the mysterious? Joining the podcast to share her thoughts on this intriguing topic is Karoleen Fober, the author of Opening to Divine Intervention: Expand and Strengthen Your Intuitive Abilities and Spiritual Connection. Karoleen is a best-selling author, spiritual teacher, divine energy reader, and intuitive business and life coach. For close to 25 years, she has provided countless consultations and divine readings to transformational leaders, entrepreneurs, and people on their spiritual journey. Overall, her mission is simple: To offer divine messages of love, healing, and guidance for the highest benefit of all… Hit play to find out: Real stories involving divine intervention.  The benefits of intentionally and actively engaging in the development of intuition. How to demystify spiritual connectivity. Practical ways to enhance your life with manifestation. Want to learn more about Karoleen and her work? Visit KaroleenFober.com now!

DateAugust 10, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we wrestle with that universal ache of unfinished business—from summer bucket lists to life's deeper longings. Drawing from personal experience and the ancient wisdom of Hebrews 11, we discover something liberating: faith isn't about checking off every box, but about trusting God in the midst of our incompleteness. Through the story of Abraham and Sarah, we learn that the divine often shows up not in our achievements, but in life's ordinary, unpolished moments—transforming our "undone" into holy ground where grace and humanity meet. (Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16)About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

In a season of Stillness—but I'm still here. ❤️‍