Podcasts about during advent

During Advent we remember how love entered our world with the birth of Jesus, and look forward to the day when love permeates our world when Jesus returns at His 2nd advent.

During Advent we wait. We step onto the holy ground of a holy longing—longing for Jesus to arrive. In Luke 1, we learn about the miraculous way that God used the parents of John the Baptizer and the parents of Jesus. Their stories reminding us that during Advent, 'Tis the Season to anticipate what God wants to do in us and through us to carry forward his mission in the world.

This is the reading from Luke 21 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 21 invites us to reflect on Jesus' teaching about the end times and His return as we prepare our hearts during Advent. Sacrificial Giving: Like the widow, give with a heart of sacrifice and trust in God's provision, knowing He values the condition of the giver's heart over the size of the gift. Endurance in Trials: The trials of this world offer opportunities to bear witness to Christ. This Advent, pray for courage and faith to persevere, trusting that God's promises are eternal. Hope in Redemption: The signs of Jesus' return remind us of the certainty of our redemption. Let this hope fill your heart with joy and confidence as you await His coming. Readiness for His Return: Jesus calls us to be watchful and prayerful, guarding against distraction. During Advent, focus on spiritual preparation, seeking His Kingdom above all else. Listening to Jesus: Like the crowds who gathered to hear Him teach, draw near to Jesus daily through His Word and prayer, allowing His truth to shape your life. As we await the celebration of Christ's birth and anticipate His return, may this passage inspire you to live faithfully and expectantly in light of His coming kingdom. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

Friends of the Rosary, During Advent, the example of Mary and Joseph shows us how to listen with an open heart and discern the will of God. In the act of listening to the Angel Gabriel — as we are reading this week in the Gospel — Mary and Joseph became a model of humility and obedience to the Divinity. Therefore, we are invited to reflect on the profound meaning of listening in a world full of noise, distraction, and confusion. We are called to cultivate a receptive and open attitude to the Word of God through the intercession of Mary and the example of Saint Joseph. This is the opposite of the sin of pride, characterized by self-sufficiency and not recognizing the need to learn or receive from others. Advent is a providential time to heal this weakness of the human heart. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You! Come, Holy Spirit, come! To Jesus through Mary! + Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • ⁠December 20, 2024, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

This is the reading from Luke 20 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 20 challenges us to consider Jesus's authority, our response to it, and the reality of His Kingdom. As we prepare for Advent, let these truths shape our hearts: Recognize Jesus' Authority: The religious leaders resisted acknowledging Jesus's authority. This Advent, reflect on areas of your life where you need to submit more fully to Christ as Lord. Respond with Faith, Not Rejection: The parable of the wicked tenants reminds us that rejecting God's messengers leads to judgment. Consider how you can embrace Christ's message of salvation with gratitude and obedience. Give to God What Is His: Jesus taught the importance of giving to God what belongs to Him. During Advent, dedicate your time, talents, and treasures to His glory. Hope in the Resurrection: Jesus's teaching about the resurrection assures us of eternal life. Let this hope inspire joy and anticipation as you celebrate His first coming and await His return. Beware of Hypocrisy: Jesus rebuked the scribes for their pride and exploitation of others. Advent calls us to examine our hearts, repent of hypocrisy, and walk humbly with God. As you prepare for Christmas, may you honor Christ as the cornerstone of your faith, submit to His authority, and eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of His kingdom. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

View the Bulletin for Wednesday, December 18, 2024Advent Worship Service: 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. During Advent, there will be no Wednesday Bible Study, it will resume Wednesday January 8, 2025All are welcome, bring a friend, neighbor or relativeVisit our YouTube channel — Click the red “subscribe” box, and then click on the “bell” next to that box to receive Live Streaming notifications. You must be logged into YouTube to activate these features.Archive of AUDIO “Readings & Sermons”Archive of VIDEO “Complete Service”Archive of BULLETINSFirst Reading – Isaiah 9:1-2, 6-7 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time He brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time He has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. Second Reading – Colossians 1:15–20 [Jesus] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent. For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of His cross. Third Reading – John 14:1–11 [Jesus said:] “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.” Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know Me, Philip? Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father'? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own authority, but the Father who dwells in Me does His works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.

This is the reading from Luke 17 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 17 challenges us to live with faith, humility, and readiness for Christ's return. During Advent, as we await the celebration of Christ's first coming and look forward to His second, we are reminded to extend forgiveness, grow in faith, and remain steadfast in our service to Him. The healing of the ten lepers encourages us to cultivate gratitude, recognizing that every blessing is a gift from God. Like the Samaritan, let us return to Christ with thankful hearts. Finally, Jesus' teaching on the Kingdom of God calls us to examine our priorities and live expectantly for His return. This Advent season, may we keep our eyes fixed on Christ, ready for His Kingdom, and faithful in every good work He has entrusted to us. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

Art of Advent (Part Two). The birth of Jesus has a lot to teach us about waiting. During Advent we celebrate the birth of Jesus and wait with anticipation for Jesus to come again.

During Advent we wait. We step onto the holy ground of a holy longing—longing for Jesus to arrive. In Luke 1, we learn about the miraculous way that God used the parents of John the Baptizer and the parents of Jesus. Their stories reminding us that during Advent, 'Tis the Season to anticipate what God wants to do in us and through us to carry forward his mission in the world.

God's Unfailing Love: Transforming Burdens into Blessings Casting Our Burdens Upon the Lord As the Gospel reminds us, Jesus invites us to come to Him, for He is humble and gentle in heart. This message resonates deeply, as all of us face difficult moments in life. We carry various burdens—some stemming from responsibilities, others from personal struggles. Leadership, whether in the workplace, at home, or in other areas of life, can be heavy. As leaders, we bear the responsibility of guiding others, fulfilling obligations, and making tough decisions. Parents, too, shoulder the burden of raising their children in the way of the Lord, often confronting the pain of watching their children stray from the path of righteousness. This pain is compounded by the longing for their well-being and the anguish when they choose contrary paths. The Burden of the Past Many of us also carry the burden of our past. Memories of mistakes, missed opportunities, and harm caused to others weigh heavily on our hearts. These recollections can be painful, resurfacing again and again despite our efforts to forget. They remind us of times we failed to love, to act rightly, or to be faithful to our calling. Feeling Forgotten by God At times, like the Israelites in the first reading, we feel abandoned by God. We wonder if our struggles are hidden from Him or if He has forgotten us. We ask, “God, where were You when I faced this pain? Where are You now in my struggles?” This sense of helplessness often leads to doubt, especially among the youth, who may feel their prayers go unanswered. In their frustration, some turn away, taking matters into their own hands. The Assurance of God's Power Yet, the prophet Isaiah reminds us of God's unmatched power and enduring presence. Isaiah calls us to look at the stars, the creation of God's hands, as evidence of His greatness. This perspective strengthens our confidence that God is with us through every situation. Even our past mistakes can become steppingstones for growth when entrusted to Him. Hear more within the Homily! The Yoke of Christ's Love In the Gospel, Jesus extends His invitation to all who labor and are burdened, promising rest for their souls. He offers us His yoke, which is the yoke of love. This yoke invites us to view every situation through the lens of love and from the perspective of Jesus. It assures us that, no matter the trials we face, God's love surrounds us. During Advent, we are called to be people of hope. The first reading assures us that those who hope in the Lord will never be disappointed. When we look at our situations through Jesus' eyes and live lives rooted in love, we can rest assured that God is working for our good. May we bring our burdens to God, trusting in His care. May we see our circumstances as expressions of His love and allow that love to guide us in loving others. For the God who created us will never abandon us. Hear more on how we do this in this Meditation Media. Listen to: God's Unfailing Love: Transforming Burdens into Blessings ----------------------------------- Image: Jesus the Consolator: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch: 1875 ----------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 28-30 First Reading: Is 40:25-31

This is the reading from Luke 13 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 13 reminds us of the urgency of repentance and the boundless grace of God, who gives opportunities to bear fruit and enter His kingdom. Jesus' healing of the crippled woman and His lament over Jerusalem reveal His compassion and desire for restoration. During Advent, may we examine our hearts, turn from sin, and embrace the hope of the Kingdom, remembering that Christ's coming brings both salvation and a call to faithful discipleship. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. — Isaiah 9:2 God provides an immediate follow-up to the passage we reflected on yesterday, about choosing to live in “utter darkness.” Because of God's mercy, the gloom and hopelessness of consulting the dead will not be the final word on their lives. Instead “a light has dawned” on them. Notice the unfolding impact of this “great light.” God's people will rejoice in ways that need all kinds of metaphors to describe. Their oppressors will lose their power. The very instruments of war used to control them will be destroyed. All of these signs point to freedom and new life that the people could not achieve on their own. The joyful hope of God's deliverance flows through this prophetic word. Further, God promises to do all of this through the birth of a child, whose rule will bring never-ending peace. Where death once tainted everything they saw, the people who are trapped in darkness will see God's flourishing kingdom coming into view. To make this certain, God declares, “The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” During Advent we remember how God started this rule of peace through the birth of Jesus Christ. And we look forward to the day when God will bring us into the fullness of this vision. God, thank you for bringing your kingdom of peace through Jesus Christ. In your continued mercy, please shine your great light on all who live in darkness, apart from you. Amen.

During Advent, our music and worship team are performing Handel's Messiah in lieu of scripture readings. The performance includes the following pieces, and their scriptural basis. THE WORD IN SONG “Messiah” George Frideric Handel Overture Scene One: God's Comforting Promise Recitative: Comfort, Ye My People (Isaiah 40:1-3) Aria: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted (Isaiah 40:4) Chorus: And the Glory of the Lord (Isaiah 40:5) Scene Two: The Purifying Messiah is Prophesied Recitative: Thus Saith the Lord (Haggai 2:6-7) Aria: But who may abide? (Malachi 3:1) Chorus: And He shall purify (Malachi 3:3)

View the Bulletin for Wednesday, December 11, 2024Advent Worship Service: 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. During Advent, there will be no Wednesday Bible Study, it will resume Wednesday January 8, 2025All are welcome, bring a friend, neighbor or relativeVisit our YouTube channel — Click the red “subscribe” box, and then click on the “bell” next to that box to receive Live Streaming notifications. You must be logged into YouTube to activate these features.Archive of AUDIO “Readings & Sermons”Archive of VIDEO “Complete Service”Archive of BULLETINSFirst Reading – Isaiah 9:1-2, 6-7 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time He brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time He has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. Second Reading – Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession who are zealous for good works. Third Reading -- John 5:16–18; 8:48–59 And this was why the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because He was doing these things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.” This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because not only was He breaking the Sabbath, but He was even calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God. . . . The Jews answered Him, “Are we not right in saying that You are a Samaritan and have a demon?” Jesus answered, “I do not have a demon, but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me. Yet I do not seek My own glory; there is One who seeks it, and He is the judge. Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to Him, “Now we know that You have a demon! Abraham died, as did the prophets, yet You say, ‘If anyone keeps My word, he will never taste death.' Are You greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do You make Yourself out to be?” Jesus answered, “If I glorify Myself, My glory is nothing. It is My Father who glorifies Me, of whom you say, ‘He is our God.' But you have not known Him. I know Him. If I were to say that I do not know Him, I would be a liar like you, but I do know Him and I keep His word. Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see My day. He saw it and was glad.” So the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to You, before Abraham was, I am.” So they picked up stones to throw at Him, but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple.

Summary In this conversation, John Grdina and Daniel Galasso explore the themes of love, relationships, and the importance of peace during the Advent season. They emphasize the need to prioritize love over tasks, the significance of forgiveness, and the effort required to build lasting relationships. The discussion highlights the power of choice in love and the impact of genuine love on personal and familial relationships. Takeaways - Love is patient and bears all things. - During Advent, prioritize being present over tasks. - Forgiveness is essential for mature love. - Building relationships requires compassion and effort. - Love is a choice that requires daily commitment. - Peace is a gift from God, especially in turmoil. - We often keep a record of wrongs, but God does not. - Our actions speak louder than words in relationships. - Love is the glue that holds relationships together. - The essence of love is rooted in God's love for us. Chapters 00:00 Embracing the Holiday Spirit 03:03 The Essence of Love and Relationships 06:18 Building Lasting Relationships Through Love 09:12 Reflection on Love and Hate in Relationships 10:47 Understanding God's Love and Its Implications 18:44 Practical Applications of Love in Relationships 22:35 Thanks for Watching

This is the reading from Luke 10 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luke 10 reminds us of the priorities in following Jesus. The seventy's mission shows the urgency of sharing the gospel and the joy of knowing our salvation is secure. The parable of the Good Samaritan challenges us to love selflessly and act mercifully, reflecting God's grace to those in need. Mary's example teaches us the value of sitting at Jesus's feet and living in relationship with Him. During Advent, let us embrace the call to share Christ's love, demonstrate His compassion, and focus on His presence as we prepare to celebrate His coming. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

During Advent we wait. We step onto the holy ground of a holy longing—longing for Jesus to arrive. In Luke 1, we learn about the miraculous way that God used the parents of John the Baptizer and the parents of Jesus. Their stories reminding us that during Advent, 'Tis the Season to anticipate what God wants to do in us and through us to carry forward his mission in the world.

 During Advent, we celebrate a child that was born. This week, we are encouraged to look to this child, Mighty God, and embrace His peace and strength.

 During Advent, we celebrate a child that was born. This week, we are encouraged to look to this child, Mighty God, and embrace His peace and strength.

God's love is like the perfect present—it wraps around everything and makes even the simplest gift spectacular. During Advent, we are reminded of how deeply God loves us, so much so that He sent His Son for us. In today's message, Pastor Ron Zappia encourages us to show and share God's Boundless Love lavishly with those around us.   This message was originally preached at Highpoint Church on Sunday, December 8, 2024 Message title: Boundless Love Passage: Psalm 103:1-17   For more info about Highpoint Church, or to find a location near you, visit our website at https://highpoint.church.   Connect with Pastor Ron and find more Bible teaching at https://ronzappia.com

During Advent, we will release two weekly episodes focusing on our Advent theme of "Practicing Peace with All Your Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind." The booklets are all gone, but you can receive the daily reflections by email.  Visit www.livingcompass.org/advent-signup In this episode, Scott Stoner helps us gain a deeper understanding of peace by discussing how the Peace of Christ is not dependent on external circumstances. 

Hope in a Peace-full FutureMicah 4:3-4 He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore (“…but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees, and no one shall make them afraid; for the mouth of the LORD of hosts has spoken.” Mic. 4:3-4 NRSV).Here we catch a glimpse of God's vision for the world—swords turned into plowshares and nations no longer preparing for war. This image of peace, which goes farther than a lack of conflict, is not a distant ideal but a tangible reality that we are called to live toward. The promise of peace in this passage is grounded in justice, where people can live without fear, under their own vines and fig trees.During Advent, we are invited to participate in making this peace a reality. Hope, in this context, is not just an expectation that peace will come, but it is also the motivation that drives us to create communities of God's all-encompassing peace in the here and now. Micah's prophecy encourages us to actively reshape our world, challenging that which thrives on killing hope.The Micah text demands us to imagine and build a future where peace is not simply the absence of war but the flourishing of life for all. Advent reminds us that living in a way that transforms swords into plowshares begins with us—with how we live, love, and act in the world. Hope becomes the force that compels us to live out this vision, trusting that peace is possible through our shared efforts and God's guiding promises to be with us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” — Genesis 15:5 I wonder how many times Abram had looked into that sky, asking God to fulfill his promise from years earlier to give Abram children of his own. I also wonder if Abram had stopped praying that prayer, and when. God had promised him that the nations would be blessed through his offspring (Genesis 12:1-3). But nothing had changed. Abram and Sarai still didn't have a child. There is weariness and sorrow in Abram's response to God: “What can you give me since I remain childless . . . ?” Here Abram is basically asking, “Can I truly believe you . . . ?” For many of us, this is our story too. We've prayed again and again, trusting that God hears us and cares for us. Sometimes God shows up with a miraculous answer. But other times we cry out with the psalmist, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). It was 25 years before God fulfilled the promise to Abram in the birth of Isaac, and nearly 2,000 more years passed before God sent Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of his promises. During Advent, we join Abram in waiting with our weariness and sorrows. And God invites us to remember and believe that his faithfulness, mercy, and love for us extend from one end of the heavens to the other—far beyond our ability to count. Lord, we struggle with weariness and grief. We need your deliverance. Help us to wait for you in the hope that you will fulfill all your promises. In Jesus, Amen.

View the Bulletin for Wednesday, December 4, 2024Advent Worship Service: 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. During Advent, there will be no Wednesday Bible Study, it will resume Wednesday January 8, 2025All are welcome, bring a friend, neighbor or relativeVisit our YouTube channel — Click the red “subscribe” box, and then click on the “bell” next to that box to receive Live Streaming notifications. You must be logged into YouTube to activate these features.Archive of AUDIO “Readings & Sermons”Archive of VIDEO “Complete Service”Archive of BULLETINSFirst Reading – Isaiah 9:1-2, 6-7 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time He brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time He has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. Second Reading – Romans 11:32-36 For God has consigned all to disobedience, that He may have mercy on all. Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and how inscrutable His ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to Him that he might be repaid?” For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen. Third Reading -- Matthew 7:24-29 “Everyone then who hears these words of Mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.

During Advent, we join ancient Israel in longing for the King. Then, at Christmas, we celebrate that the King is here.Today's verse: Ezekiel 34:23For more content like this, connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/revgeorgepenkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the reading from Luke 3 in our ⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠. In Luke 3, we see John's message of repentance reminds us to prepare our hearts for Jesus and our need for Him as Savior. Jesus's baptism reveals His humility and obedience, while the genealogy affirms that Jesus is the Savior of the world. During Advent, let us reflect on how Jesus fulfills every promise and calls us to live as His faithful followers. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

Advent begins in the dark, and at this weary time of year, we truly need reminders of what we can hope for and how we can remain with one another, despite the hardest hurts that make us want to draw away. As we do so, we're joined by the exquisitely talented, award-winning writer and senior editor at Harper One, Stephanie Duncan Smith, 4 (4-8 pairing) as she talks about her new book that addresses finding light even after darkness, Even After Everything: The Spiritual Practice of Knowing the Risks and Loving Anyway. Today we get to process what Advent means as we enter the season, but moreover, we get to hear Stephanie‘s rich stories about the ways that she has encountered finiteness and loss and also opened herself up to joy even after harrowing experiences of both live births and pregnancy losses during the Advent season. During Advent and beyond, do not miss this journey of sharing our hopes and desires to cope after our losses. Join us for a beautiful and hope-filled episode right here. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZYIyTVmdx8k More About Stephanie: Stephanie Duncan Smith is a writer and senior editor at HarperOne who has spent her career developing award-winning and bestselling authors. She is the creator of Slant Letter, a bestselling Substack email newsletter for writers looking to deepen their craft and do it in style. Duncan Smith completed her master's in theology at Western Theological Seminary, where she was the winner of the Frederick Buechner Prize for Excellence in Writing. She lives with her husband, Zach, a professor, and their two children in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Show Notes: Get Stephanie‘s brand new title here this Advent: Even After Everything: The Spiritual Practice of Knowing the Risks and Loving Anyway : https://a.co/d/f5w6z5Z Follow Stephanie on Substack, the Slant Letter right here: https://substack.com/@stephanieduncansmith Find Stephanie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stephduncansmith/?hl=en Also, make sure you visit www.EnneagramandMarriage.com for all of our Cyber Monday deals using the code BlackFriday for 50% off so many products, including our new MBTI rollout over at www.MyersBriggsandMarriage.com! You can also get the deals on Dating Divas sexy subscription and more here! https://shop.thedatingdivas.com/?sca_ref=6272364.4hv7IY3580 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yQ4t3GG8g20 We would love to hear from you! Leave your questions or messages for Christa or sign up for coaching RIGHT HERE: https://www.enneagramandmarriage.com/contact-us Sign Up For the E + M WEEKLY NEWSLETTER here: https://enneagramandmarriage.myflodesk.com/olivbuf96o We share new posts each week @ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enneagramandmarriage/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/772026686525647 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@enneagramandmarriage?lang=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A 15-minute audio guided meditation for Advent. During Advent, we remember that Christ has come, Christ is coming (now, among us) and Christ will come again. For those who seek to follow Christ, this meditation offers space to reflect on the Kingdom of God: what it is, what it does and how you are uniquely invited […] The post Thy Kingdom Come: Advent: A Guided Meditation appeared first on Contemplative at Home.

During Advent, we will release two weekly episodes focusing on our Advent theme of "Practicing Peace with All Your Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind." The booklets are all gone, but you can receive the daily reflections by email.  Visit www.livingcompass.org/advent-signup In this episode, Scott Stoner helps us gain a deeper understanding of peace by discussing how peace is not just about calmness and serenity but also the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation. 

This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent and Christmas is right around the corner. For some, the days fly as there is so much to do to be ready for the day. For some, the days crawl as we await all the fun and excitement. The good news is we have the days of Advent to prepare our hearts for the coming of the King. During Advent, which gets its meaning from the Latin word for “coming,” we remember the first Christmas when Jesus was born and anticipate the Christ that will return in final victory. During these days, which start four Sunday's ahead of Christmas, we prepare, we decorate, shop, cook, and wrap. Yet, we also must take the time to pray and worship as we seek the hope, peace, love and joy of Jesus in our lives.  In Sunday's sermon, I will reflect on the significance of the nativity scene emphasizing the importance of each character, particularly Joseph, the humble and silent protector of Jesus. The sermon highlights that Joseph's lack of spoken words in the Bible does not diminish his role; instead, it showcases his strength, compassion, and ability to step back and let God lead. I will share some of my personal anecdotes about my father's humble trade and character, mirroring the qualities exhibited by Joseph. The sermon culminates in the idea that life itself is an Advent journey, where recognizing the Lord's presence can transform our experiences into sacred moments.Serving with joy,  Stephen 

God is so good to us, this gift of love in Jesus.  During Advent, we will engage an old tradition of 1st/2nd Sundays of Advent focusing on looking forward to Jesus coming again (themes of transformation and mission).  Then a focus on looking back to Jesus 1st coming (themes of advent and promise fulfilled).  This will lead us to Christmas Eve, 5:00pm worship service as we gather around the manger to celebrate the Incarnation, Immanuel, God with us.  

During Advent we wait. We step onto the holy ground of a holy longing—longing for Jesus to arrive. In Luke 1, we learn about the miraculous way that God used the parents of John the Baptizer and the parents of Jesus. Their stories reminding us that during Advent, 'Tis the Season to anticipate what God wants to do in us and through us to carry forward his mission in the world.

During Advent we stop to consider that without Christ, our world is dark, both without and within; and we are in desperate need of a Savior! // A message by Chris Hyatt.

This is the reading from Luke 1 in our Good News of Great Joy reading guide. Luke 1 sets the stage for the arrival of Jesus, showing God's faithfulness to His promises. The angelic announcements and prophetic songs highlight God's plan to bring salvation to His people through Christ. During Advent, we can join Mary and Zechariah in raising God for His mercy and preparing our hearts to receive the light of Christ. You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.

Hope Amid InjusticeLuke 23:1-5Jesus stands accused before Pilate, the wielder of systemic power. This moment mirrors stories of oppression experienced by many around the globe today. Pilate, driven by fear and the desire for control, manipulates truth, while Jesus remains centered in the presence of this injustice with stillness as a profound resistance, rooted in hope.Hope here is a force of resilience. It doesn't wait for a better future instead confronting power structures with quiet strength. In the face of violence, exploitation, and inequality, we too are called to embody hope, not by waiting for change, but by believing that, with strategic actions, change is possible and, yes, even necessary. The Advent season reminds us that God's justice is always in motion, even when oppression seems ubiquitously overwhelming.This passage asks us to recognize the systems that perpetuate injustice in the world and respond with unwavering trust in the liberating presence of the Divine. As Jesus stands before Pilate, hope stands with him—not as passive optimism but as a radical commitment to transformation. During Advent, let us embody this active hope, creating space for the Holy's justice in every act of resistance against oppression and inequality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we embark on the season of Advent, we're invited to reflect deeply on its profound themes and spiritual insights. We began with a curious juxtaposition of socks, Lego Spider-Man, tea, Himalayan dog chews, and fishing lures. While they seem unrelated, they all symbolize how our culture can shape our perceptions of this sacred time. Advent calendars of every kind show up, encouraging a focus on material accumulation. Yet the true essence of Advent lies in preparation, expectation, and reflection on both the first and second comings of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke, chapter 21, serves as a poignant reminder that amidst chaos and uncertainty, our focus should be on hope. Just as the story of the solitary figure outside the White House with a candle tells us, these practices do more than merely attempt to change the worldthey keep us anchored in faith. During Advent, we reconnect with themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, grounding ourselves in the knowledge that Jesus brings redemption and renewal. In doing so, we resist the temptation to be overwhelmed by life's troubles and instead, remember to lift our heads in hope, assured that our Redeemer is near. Advent is a time of preparation, reflecting on both Jesus' first and second coming. Material distractions, like those represented in secular Advent calendars, can obscure the true spiritual preparation of the season. Hope is a central theme of Advent, with a focus on Christ as the source of redemption. Despite the world's troubles, believers are called to focus on Jesus for true hope. The importance of not being changed by the world, but instead keeping focus on Christ. Questions for Reflection: How do the seemingly unrelated Advent calendar items mentioned in the sermon reflect our culture's approach to Christmas, and how might this distract us from the true meaning of Advent? In what ways can we, like the pastor with the candle, engage in practices that prevent the world from changing us rather than trying to change the world? How does Jesus' prophecy about the destruction of the temple challenge our assumptions about permanence and security in our own lives? What does it mean to 'lift up your heads' in times of distress, as Jesus instructs, and how can we practically apply this in our daily lives? How does Bonhoeffer's analogy of trapped miners hearing rescuers approach relate to our understanding of hope in Christ's return? In what areas of your life do you find yourself putting hope in things other than God, and how can you redirect that hope? How does the reminder that Jesus experienced human suffering change our perspective on our own struggles? What practices or rituals can we incorporate into our lives to keep our focus on the true meaning of Advent and Christmas? How can we be 'people of hope' in a world that often seems hopeless, and what does it look like to share that hope with others? In what ways does the certainty of Christ's return impact how we live our daily lives and face uncertainties?

Full Text of ReadingsTwenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 122The Saint of the day is Saint Louis of FranceSaint Louis of France’s Story At his coronation as king of France, Louis IX bound himself by oath to behave as God's anointed, as the father of his people and feudal lord of the King of Peace. Other kings had done the same, of course. Louis was different in that he actually interpreted his kingly duties in the light of faith. After the violence of two previous reigns, he brought peace and justice. Louis “took the cross” for a Crusade when he was 30. His army seized Damietta in Egypt but not long after, weakened by dysentery and without support, they were surrounded and captured. Louis obtained the release of the army by giving up the city of Damietta in addition to paying a ransom. He stayed in Syria four years. Louis deserves credit for extending justice in civil administration. His regulations for royal officials became the first of a series of reform laws. He replaced trial by battle with a form of examination of witnesses and encouraged the use of written records in court. Louis was always respectful of the papacy, but defended royal interests against the popes, and refused to acknowledge Innocent IV's sentence against Emperor Frederick II. Louis was devoted to his people, founding hospitals, visiting the sick, and like his patron Saint Francis, caring even for people with leprosy. He is one of the patrons of the Secular Franciscan Order. Louis united France—lords and townsfolk, peasants and priests and knights—by the force of his personality and holiness. For many years the nation was at peace. Every day, Louis had 13 special guests from among the poor to eat with him, and a large number of poor were served meals near his palace. During Advent and Lent, all who presented themselves were given a meal, and Louis often served them in person. He kept lists of needy people, whom he regularly relieved, in every province of his dominion. Disturbed by new Muslim advances, Louis led another crusade to North Africa in 1270. Within a month of their landing at Carthage, the army camp was decimated by disease. Louis himself died there at the age of 56. He was canonized 27 years later. Reflection Louis was strong-willed, strong-minded. His word was trusted utterly, and his courage in action was remarkable. What is most remarkable was his sense of respect for anyone with whom he dealt, especially the “humble folk of the Lord.” To care for his people he built cathedrals, churches, libraries, hospitals and orphanages. He dealt with princes honestly and equitably. He hoped to be treated the same way by the King of Kings, to whom he gave his life, his family and his country. Saint Louis of France is a Patron Saint of: BarbersGroomsSecular Franciscan Order Learn more about Saint Louis of France! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Join the editor of Adoremus Bulletin, Christopher Carstens, and Dr. Donelson-Nowicka as they chat about answers to some liturgical-musical questions: Can we use the organ or other instruments during Lent? During Advent? Where should the choir be placed in a church? Is there a list of songs that are (or are not) permitted? Can paraphrased psalms be used at Mass? Should cantors be vested? To go deeper in your study of the sacred liturgy and its music, check out our summer 2024 graduate classes or the upcoming online fall and spring 2024–2025 graduate course offerings of the Catholic Institute of Sacred Music: http://catholicinstituteofsacredmusic.org/.

During Advent and Christmastide–and at all times–how can we understand and fully experience the formative power of music? And amid distraction and anxiety, how can we keep Christ at the center of our hearts as we sing?As Keith Getty explains, Christmas carols are not only about festivity, but also formation. For all of the delight they bring, they stand as musical masterpieces that teach deep truths, embed them within our memory and consciousness, unite a disparate people in praise, and cultivate and orient our sense of joy:“We're fearfully and wonderfully made. We remember tunes and we forget sermons, not because we're bad people, but it's because of how God made us. The carols are special because repetition is a form of liturgy. And each Christmas, the liturgy of singing provides such an opportunity for us.” - Keith GettyThis podcast is an edited version of an online conversation recorded earlier this month. Watch the full video of the conversation here, and learn more about Keith Getty here.Authors and books mentioned in the conversation:Sing! How Worship Transforms Your Life, Family, and Church, by Keith and Kristen GettyJohn LennoxWinston ChurchillCharles WesleyFelix MendelssohnJeremy BegbieAlistair BeggIsaac WattsJohn CalvinKeith Getty is an extraordinary hymn writer, musician, and catalyst for the modern hymn movement. He joined us for a special Trinity Forum Online Conversation to explore music, formation, and beauty which we're pleased to bring you now as a special podcast during this season of Advent.This podcast is an edited version of an online conversation recorded earlier this month. Watch the full video of the conversation here, and learn more about Keith Getty here.Authors and books mentioned in the conversation:Sing! How Worship Transforms Your Life, Family, and Church, by Keith and Kristen GettyRelated Trinity Forum Readings:Bright Evening Star, by Madeleine L'EngleWhy God Became Man, by Anselm of CanterburyPilgrim at Tinker Creek, by Annie DillardThe Strangest Story in the World, by G.K. ChestertonHandel's Messiah Related Conversations:Rebuilding our Common Life with Yuval LevinThe Challenge of Christian Nationalism with Mark Noll and Vincent BacoteThe Decadent Society with Ross DouthatScience, Faith, Trust and Truth with Francis CollinsBeyond Ideology with Peter Kreeft and Eugene RiversJustice, Mercy, and Overcoming Racial Division with Claude Alexander and Mac PierHealing a Divided Culture with Arthur BrooksAfter Babel with Andy Crouch and Johnathan HaidtTrust, Truth, and The Knowledge Crisis with Bonnie KristianHope in an Age of Anxiety with Curtis Chang & Curt ThompsonAdvent: the Season of Hope with Tish Harrison WarrenTo listen to this or any of our episodes in full, visit ttf.org/podcast and to join the Trinity Forum Society and help make content like this possible, join the Trinity Forum SocietySpecial thanks to Ned Bustard for our podcast artwork.

Thank you for joining us! During Advent we're in a new sermon series. This week our Lead Pastor, Henry Williams, takes us through a sermon titled, "The True and Better David” teaching from Luke 2:25-35. If you haven't already, click ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠ to download the Sermon Application Guide to follow along. For more information on how to get connected with Five Oaks Church, visit ⁠⁠⁠https://www.fiveoaks.church/connect-me

During Advent season the church focuses on the coming of Jesus into this world. In this Advent sermon Pastor Keith explains that Jesus has come as a humble king to rescue us and reign in us and we must receive him and his kingdom with humility and faith to experience salvation and joy.

During Advent season the church focuses on the coming of Jesus into this world. In this Advent sermon Pastor Keith explains that Jesus has come as a humble king to rescue us and reign in us and we must receive him and his kingdom with humility and faith to experience salvation and joy.

During Advent, we remember that when Jesus first came into the world some were ready, but most were not.Who has believed what he has heard from us?[a]     And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?For he grew up before him like a young plant,     and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,     and no beauty that we should desire him.He was despised and rejected[b] by men,     a man of sorrows[c] and acquainted with[d] grief;[e] and as one from whom men hide their faces[f]     he was despised, and we esteemed him not.Surely he has borne our griefs     and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken,     smitten by God, and afflicted.But he was pierced for our transgressions;     he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,     and with his wounds we are healed.All we like sheep have gone astray;     we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him     the iniquity of us all.Isaiah 53:1-6FINDING JESUS.18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world,[g] in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.Romans 1:18-20WE ARE ALL SUSCEPTIBLE TO A CALLUSED HEART.The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?Jeremiah 17:9A HARD HEART IS A BLIND HEART.A hard heart is a heart that sees things as they are, not for what they truly are. 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. Romans 1:18 “Hear this, O foolish and senseless people, who have eyes, but see not, who have ears, but hear not.Jeremiah 5:21Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says: “‘“You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.”Matthew 13:1453 And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there, 54 and coming to his hometown he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? 55 Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? 56 And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?” 57 And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own household.” 58 And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.Matthew 13:53-58Who has believed what he has heard from us?[a]     And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?For he grew up before him like a young plant,     and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,     and no beauty that we should desire him.Isaiah 53:1-2This shows that men value physical beauty and charisma far more than God does, and when we don't see it, we can reject the ones God accepts.David GuzikThis means that when we try to attract people to Jesus through form or comeliness, or beauty, we are using methods that run counter to the nature of Jesus. “These days it appears that we must dress up the gospel to make it attractive. We have to use the methods of technique which must be smart, well-presented, streamlined. There must be something about the presentation of the gospel that will appeal to people…to what is called ‘the modern mind.' I wonder if we stop to think that in our efforts to make the gospel message ‘attractive' we are drawing a curtain across the face of Jesus in His humiliation? The only one who can make Him attractive is the Holy Spirit.”Alan RedpathJESUS IS THE DEEPER TRUTH HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT.15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by[f] him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Colossians 1:15-17 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.Romans 1:22-23And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh,Ezekiel 11:19WHEN MY HEART IS SOFTENEDWONDER IS RESTOREDWonder: a feeling of surprise mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable.9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:9-1127 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God Luke 2:27-28  SACRIFICIAL OBEDIENCE IS OUR JOY 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant[f] of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.Luke 1:3818 Now the birth of Jesus Christ[e] took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed[f] to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.Matthew 1:18-20 

Thank you for joining us! During Advent we're in a new sermon series. This week our Community and Discipleship Pastor, Jonathan Haage, takes us through a sermon titled, "True and Better Abraham” teaching from Hebrews 11:8-16. If you haven't already, click ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠ to download the Sermon Application Guide to follow along. For more information on how to get connected with Five Oaks Church, visit ⁠⁠⁠https://www.fiveoaks.church/connect-me

During Advent, this podcast channel comes to you in the form of Illuminate.Episode 2: Katembe - Jesus in a War. In this podcast series, we will take you to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where we will visit three communities in the Goma area. Let's listen to George discussing the people and places where we work and what God is busy doing there.If you haven't already subscribed to the podcast, please find us on Spotify, Apple or Google Podcast by searching "Meanwhile in Africa..." Learn how you can give the gift of hope. Visit www.handsatwork.org/finding-the-most-vulnerable.

Fr. John Brancich, FSSP is the pastor of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, New Hampshire. He was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter in 2004.     In Today's Show: My Protestant friend says that they prefer the bare cross because it represents that Jesus has risen from the dead and is no longer bound by death. What is the difference between the bare cross and the crucifix and why do Catholics prefer the crucifix? Since Christmas Eve falls on Sunday this year, should we fast? During Advent, our traditional parish doesn't say the Gloria and the ite missa est - is this proper? When praying the First Five Saturdays devotion, do they have to be the first five Saturdays, or can it be any five Saturdays in a row? Is hobby work (casual woodworking, etc.) permissible on Sundays? Where was the Garden of Eden? Was it the whole world? Is the use of medical marijuana, as prescribed by a doctor, a sin that one must confess? What is excommunication? What are its effects and its limits? How should we approach a Solemnity that doesn't fall on a Holy Day of Obligation? Can Catholics attend restaurants on Sundays? Aren't we forcing others to work by doing so? What is the most important spiritual lesson that can and/or should be taken from the Book of Job?   Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

During Advent, we look back at the birth of Christ and ahead to his return. 

Host: Steve Macchia, Guest: Susan Currie This is a reprise of season 23 episode 1 of The Discerning Leader Podcast. “During Advent, we give space to the waiting. All of us are waiting for something.” – Susan Currie Susan serves as the Director of Leadership Transformation's Selah Certificate Training Program in Spiritual Direction. Over the past 30 years, she has offered retreat leadership and formation ministry to various church and parachurch bodies. Susan also serves as Affiliated Clergy with All Saints' Anglican Cathedral in Amesbury, MA. In our 21st century life we do not like to wait for anything. Sharing from the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, Susan Currie returns to the podcast and invites us to come alongside the Biblical characters. We consider their longings, their waiting, and the things we ourselves are waiting for. She reminds us that all of us are waiting for something. In Advent, we are invited to slow down enough to recognize our longings and offer them to the only one who can come and make all things right. Join the conversation about spiritual discernment as a way of life at www.LeadershipTransformations.org and consider participation in our online and in-person program offerings. Additional LTI spiritual formation resources can be found at www.SpiritualFormationStore.com and www.ruleoflife.com and www.healthychurch.net.

On this episode of Preaching the Text, John Hoyum and Steve Paulson discuss one of the end times sayings of Christ from the Gospel of Mark. During Advent, the lectionary tries to fix our attention on the end times. This episode discusses some of the perils of end times fixations, and how to properly distinguish law and gospel when it comes to preaching the end of all things in Christ. Show Notes: Support 1517 on Giving Tuesday! 1517 Podcasts The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 on Youtube What's New from 1517: Freedom Lessons Album Free 2023 Advent Resources Your God is too Glorious, 2nd Edition 2024 NWA Tickets (May 3-4) Join the 1517 Academy More from the hosts: John Hoyum Steven Paulson  

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 423The Saint of the day is Saint Louis of FranceSaint Louis of France’s Story At his coronation as king of France, Louis IX bound himself by oath to behave as God's anointed, as the father of his people and feudal lord of the King of Peace. Other kings had done the same, of course. Louis was different in that he actually interpreted his kingly duties in the light of faith. After the violence of two previous reigns, he brought peace and justice. Louis “took the cross” for a Crusade when he was 30. His army seized Damietta in Egypt but not long after, weakened by dysentery and without support, they were surrounded and captured. Louis obtained the release of the army by giving up the city of Damietta in addition to paying a ransom. He stayed in Syria four years. Louis deserves credit for extending justice in civil administration. His regulations for royal officials became the first of a series of reform laws. He replaced trial by battle with a form of examination of witnesses and encouraged the use of written records in court. Louis was always respectful of the papacy, but defended royal interests against the popes, and refused to acknowledge Innocent IV's sentence against Emperor Frederick II. Louis was devoted to his people, founding hospitals, visiting the sick, and like his patron Saint Francis, caring even for people with leprosy. He is one of the patrons of the Secular Franciscan Order. Louis united France—lords and townsfolk, peasants and priests and knights—by the force of his personality and holiness. For many years the nation was at peace. Every day, Louis had 13 special guests from among the poor to eat with him, and a large number of poor were served meals near his palace. During Advent and Lent, all who presented themselves were given a meal, and Louis often served them in person. He kept lists of needy people, whom he regularly relieved, in every province of his dominion. Disturbed by new Muslim advances, Louis led another crusade to North Africa in 1270. Within a month of their landing at Carthage, the army camp was decimated by disease. Louis himself died there at the age of 56. He was canonized 27 years later. Reflection Louis was strong-willed, strong-minded. His word was trusted utterly, and his courage in action was remarkable. What is most remarkable was his sense of respect for anyone with whom he dealt, especially the “humble folk of the Lord.” To care for his people he built cathedrals, churches, libraries, hospitals and orphanages. He dealt with princes honestly and equitably. He hoped to be treated the same way by the King of Kings, to whom he gave his life, his family and his country. Saint Louis of France is a Patron Saint of: BarbersGroomsSecular Franciscan Order Learn more about Saint Louis of France! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media