Podcasts about father luke

Episode Summary: Have you ever found yourself saying yes when you really wanted to say no? Or have you ever felt overwhelmed and exhausted because you were trying to meet everyone else’s expectations? If so, you are not alone. In recognition of National Stress Awareness Day, today, we’re going to explore how to move from overwhelmed to overjoyed by learning to say no without feeling guilty. We’ll dive into Scripture, explore research on overcommitment, and I’ll share five practical ways to set God-honoring boundaries. Quotables from the episode: Many of us, especially as women, have been taught that saying yes is the godly thing to do. We associate busyness with productivity, and productivity with worth. But the truth is, constantly saying yes can leave us drained, distracted, and distant from God’s best for us. For many years, I said “Yes” every time something was asked of me because I believed it was the godly response. Until God impressed upon my heart that he never told me to do that much, and had I sought him for wisdom, He would have readily guided my path! That was totally on me, but God was so gentle in getting my attention. Psychologists have long studied the effects of people-pleasing and overcommitment. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that chronic overcommitment leads to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Emotionally, people-pleasers often struggle with self-worth, believing their value is tied to what they do for others rather than who they are in Christ. Chronic Overcommitment and Overwhelm Chronic overcommitment and overwhelm can take a serious toll on physical health, leading to conditions such as: Adrenal Fatigue & Hormonal Imbalance – Constant stress can dysregulate cortisol levels, leading to exhaustion, brain fog, and difficulty managing emotions. Cardiovascular Issues – Chronic stress increases blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation, raising the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke. Weakened Immune System – Prolonged stress suppresses immune function, making the body more susceptible to infections and slower to heal. Gastrointestinal Problems – Overwhelm can contribute to acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and digestive issues. Chronic Pain & Inflammation – Stress triggers inflammation, which can exacerbate conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraines. Sleep Disorders – Overcommitment often leads to insomnia, poor sleep quality, and chronic fatigue. Weight Gain or Loss – Stress-related eating patterns can lead to unhealthy weight fluctuations, metabolic dysfunction, and insulin resistance. Muscle Tension & Headaches – Persistent stress can cause tight muscles, tension headaches, and even TMJ (jaw pain from clenching). Burnout & Mental Fog – Long-term overwhelm can impair cognitive function, reducing focus, memory, and decision-making ability. Autoimmune Disorders – Chronic stress has been linked to the development or worsening of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Managing stress through rest, boundaries, and self-care isn’t just about mental well-being; it’s essential for physical health. Jesus himself set boundaries. In Luke 5:16, we read, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” He didn’t heal every person or meet every need. He sought the Father’s will first. If Jesus set boundaries, then we should, too. Addressing the spiritual and scientific aspects of restoration To counteract the physical effects of chronic overcommitment and overwhelm, we must address both the spiritual and scientific aspects of restoration. Here’s how: Prioritizing Rest & Sabbath (Biblical & Scientific) Biblical Insight: God modeled rest in Genesis 2:2-3, and Jesus regularly withdrew to quiet places (Mark 6:31). Sabbath isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a command for our well-being (Exodus 20:8-10). Science: Rest lowers cortisol, improves immune function, and enhances brain health. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and physical repair. Application: Schedule intentional rest. Guard your Sabbath. Ensure 7-9 hours of sleep. Setting Boundaries to Prevent Overcommitment Biblical Insight: Even Jesus set boundaries—He didn’t heal everyone at once and took time alone with the Father (Luke 5:16). Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard our hearts, which includes protecting our time and energy. Science: Chronic stress leads to burnout, weakened immunity, and heart disease. Learning to say “no” prevents emotional and physical depletion. Application: Use discernment in commitments. Before saying “yes,” ask: Does this align with God’s will? Is this sustainable? Engaging in Mind-Body Renewal Biblical Insight: Romans 12:2 encourages us to renew our minds. Philippians 4:8 tells us to focus on what is pure and lovely. Science: Practices like deep breathing, exercise, and gratitude shift the brain out of stress mode, improving mental clarity and resilience. Application: Try breath prayers (e.g., inhale “Be still,” exhale “and know that I am God”; inhale “I trust you, God,” exhale “in all things.”). Move daily to reduce inflammation and boost mood. Nourishing the Body & Mind Biblical Insight: Daniel chose healthy foods and was stronger than those indulging in excess (Daniel 1:12-15). Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Science: Whole foods reduce inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and protect against stress-related illnesses. Application: Eat nutrient-dense foods, stay hydrated, and avoid excess caffeine or sugar that heightens stress responses. Seeking Community & Support Biblical Insight: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches that two are better than one. We weren’t designed to carry burdens alone (Galatians 6:2). Science: Social connection lowers stress hormones, strengthens immunity, and increases resilience. Application: Surround yourself with godly counsel. Delegate. Accept help. Community is part of God’s design for our well-being. Releasing Control & Trusting God Biblical Insight: Jesus said, “Come to me, all who are weary… and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Trusting God’s sovereignty brings peace (Isaiah 26:3). Science: Chronic stress stems from feeling out of control. Releasing worries to God reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental health. Application: Regularly surrender your burdens to God. Journal prayers. Meditate on Scriptures about His faithfulness. By aligning our lives with God’s rhythms and applying scientific wisdom, we can reduce overwhelm and prevent burnout and experience lasting peace. Practical Tips for How to Set Healthy, God-Honoring Boundaries Recognize that “No” is a Complete Sentence You don’t need to over-explain or justify your decision. Jesus simply said “yes” or “no” (Matthew 5:37). When we recognize that saying no is a way to honor God’s best for us, we can do so with confidence. Pray Before You Commit Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. ”Before saying yes to anything, take a moment to pray and ask, Is this God’s best for me in this season? Set Priorities Based on God’s Calling Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are created for good works that God prepared in advance for us. This means that we are not called to do everything—only what He has specifically prepared for us. Identify what God is calling you to do in this season and let that guide your commitments. Understand That Saying No Opens the Door for God’s Yes When we fill our schedules with obligations, we leave no room for the divine appointments God has for us. Saying no creates margin for God’s greater yes. Isaiah 30:21 says, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Practice Saying No with Grace and Love You can say no in a way that honors both God and the other person. Here are a few ways: “Thank you for thinking of me, but I can’t commit to that right now.” “I appreciate the opportunity, but I need to focus on what God has called me to in this season.” “I’d love to help another time, but my plate is full right now.” Encouraging Scripture to Empower You: Learning to say no without feeling guilty Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Matthew 11:28-30 – Jesus calls us to rest in Him, not to take on every burden. Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” Sometimes, God’s best for us is rest. Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must discern what is right for this season. Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our commitments should be done with joy and purpose, not guilt. Scripture References: Luke 5:16 “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Galatians 1:10 “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus calls us to rest in Him, not to take on every burden. Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.” Sometimes, God’s best for us is rest. Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must discern what is right for this season. Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our commitments should be done with joy and purpose, not guilt. Saying no is not a rejection of others—it is a way of saying yes to what God has planned for you. You don’t have to live overwhelmed and exhausted. You can move from overcommitted to overjoyed by setting God-honoring boundaries. I encourage you this week to pray over your commitments. Ask God to show you where you need to say no so you can say yes to His best. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who needs encouragement in this area. And as always, if you need more hope-filled encouragement, visit my website DrMichelleB.com or connect with me on social media. If you know someone who routinely falls prey to people-pleasing, or is feeling overwhelmed, please consider sharing this episode with them to offer a biblically-based hope-filled perspective. Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Two Lost Sons of a Prodigal Father (Luke 15:11-32) [Part 3 of 3] by Edgington EPC

In this first part of a two-part series on John 14:6, Pastor Matt Maloney explores the profound declaration of Jesus: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”Beginning with "I am the Way," the sermon traces the storyline of Scripture—from Eden to the torn curtain at Christ's crucifixion. In our sin, humanity was cast out from God's presence (Gen 3), yet God's desire to dwell with His people never ceased (Exod 29). Jesus, through His atoning death, has removed the barrier of sin and opened the way back to the Father (Luke 23). The call is simple yet weighty: come to Jesus. There is no other way to draw near to God.In "I am the Truth," we see that sin not only separated us relationally from God but also darkened our understanding of Him. Left to ourselves—whether through religion, philosophy, or science—we suppress the truth (Rom 1). But God has taken the initiative: in Jesus, the truth is revealed. He is the true light (John 1:9), the full revelation of the Father (John 14:7–11). Yet revelation alone is not enough—it takes a miracle. Only by the Spirit's work (John 14:26) can blind eyes be opened to see Jesus for who He truly is.

Father Luke explains the backstory on the famous quote from Saint Carlo Acutis, "The Eucharist is my highway to heaven!" Listen to learn more. Podcast by Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR.

Oct. 12, 2025 - The Heart of the Father (Luke 15:11-32) - Barry Smith - cpcspokane.org

The Two Lost Sons of a Prodigal Father (Luke 15:11-32) [Part 2/3] by Edgington EPC

Sunday Morning 09/21/25 - We are continuing our verse by verse study through the book of Luke with a message titled "Our Good Heavenly Father" - Luke 11:5-13 - Pastor James Eakins

Jesus uses the strongest language possible to communicate a most important message: we must put God first or else we will not make it, in other words, we can not save ourselves! Listen to learn more! Podcast by Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR. For all of Father Luke's homilies, search for the podcasts "Daily Homilies Blue Army Shrine" and "Franciscan Fridays at the Shrine"

Listen as Pastor David Robinson preaches a sermon that is pertinent to the world today and the impact of the truth of the gospel.     Sermons & Series: https://gracegalt.com/sermonsCheck us out online: https://gracegalt.com/Instagram: @gbcgaltYouTube: @GraceBibleChurchCambridgeFacebook: http://fb.com/gbccambridge Support the show Used with Permission. CCLI Church Copyright License Number: 1112489. Streaming License Number: 22455139.

God loves lost people. But even once we've been found, we can't forget that fact, or else we risk missing the heart of our Heavenly Father.  If you prefer to listen, stream, and/or watch, join us and subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kingwoodmethodist

Flashback Episode: Year in Luke – Episode 31: While most people might refer to this parable as the Parable of the Prodigal Son, discover how it might be more deserving of a different title — specifically one that emphasizes the character of the father. Join the discussion on the original episode's page: Click Here.Listen to this episode and/or subscribe on ReflectiveBibleStudy.com...

Our Father Luke 11:1–13 What kind of Father invites you to pray? One who gave His Son for you. When Jesus teaches us to pray, He begins not with “Almighty God” or “Righteous Judge,” but with “Father.” That one word changes everything—it reveals not just a title but a relationship. In Christ, His Father is now your Father. His prayer is now your prayer. And yet, how easily we forget. We treat prayer like a last resort or a vending machine. We love the gifts more than the Giver. We go it alone. Earthly fathers, too, fall short—speaking in anger, failing to guide, or remaining absent. The Law shows us where we fall short as children and as parents. But Jesus points us to the cross, where the Father gave His Son to make us His own. In Holy Baptism, the Spirit teaches us to cry, “Abba, Father.” He gives us the courage to ask, seek, and knock. And the Father listens. He delights to hear your voice. That's why, just before the Supper, we pray the “Our Father.” It's the family table prayer of God's children. Here, the Father feeds us with the Body and Blood of His Son and says, “Welcome home.” ✝️ Worship with Us at Trinity – Sheboygan, WI Sundays – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Mondays – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org

Becoming the Father (Luke 15) - Morning Sermon

Our Father Luke 11:1–13 What kind of Father invites you to pray? One who gave His Son for you. When Jesus teaches us to pray, He begins not with “Almighty God” or “Righteous Judge,” but with “Father.” That one word changes everything—it reveals not just a title but a relationship. In Christ, His Father is now your Father. His prayer is now your prayer. And yet, how easily we forget. We treat prayer like a last resort or a vending machine. We love the gifts more than the Giver. We go it alone. Earthly fathers, too, fall short—speaking in anger, failing to guide, or remaining absent. The Law shows us where we fall short as children and as parents. But Jesus points us to the cross, where the Father gave His Son to make us His own. In Holy Baptism, the Spirit teaches us to cry, “Abba, Father.” He gives us the courage to ask, seek, and knock. And the Father listens. He delights to hear your voice. That's why, just before the Supper, we pray the “Our Father.” It's the family table prayer of God's children. Here, the Father feeds us with the Body and Blood of His Son and says, “Welcome home.” ✝️ Worship with Us at Trinity – Sheboygan, WI Sundays – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Mondays – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org

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A Sunday morning sermon by Pastor Brett Deal. Elise and I just got back from our own Emmaus road. We set out walking from our Jerusalem, like Cleopas and his companion into the unknown. And walk we did! Over the last two weeks we averaged six miles a day. Our peripatetic journey took us across the British isles. We worshiped in Westminster and Glasgow, the castle heights of Edinburgh and the cliffs of Howth. But of all the amazing places we visited, there was one spot I was particularly excited to visit in the small village of Kirkwall. And we reached it right on time.  Forty days after the resurrection, Jesus took His disciples to a hillside near Bethany and, raising His hands, blessed them as He ascended to the Father. They watched, worshiping and amazed, as He was lifted beyond the clouds. On May 29th, Ascension Day, Elise and I arrived on Orkney Island, where in 1137, Viking Christians began building a church known as the Light of the North. It is the oldest cathedral in all of Scotland. For 900 years, followers of Jesus have gathered in this beautiful church and celebrated the ascension of our Lord. But what do we do once Jesus, who walked with us on the road, has ascended into the heavens? What are we to do now? Like the disciples before us, we return to Jerusalem with great joy, blessing God and expectantly awaiting the promise of the Father (Luke 24.52-53; Acts 1.4). As we gather this Sunday in anticipation of Pentecost, let's prepare our hearts for a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit among us!

Preached by Kyle Nelson

Shalom is not a fragmented or surface-level peace—it's the wholeness and fullness of God Himself, offered to every part of our lives. While the world offers momentary relief, Jesus offers His very presence, inviting us into the peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). This kind of peace grows as we consistently spend time with Him—in prayer, Scripture, worship, solitude, and community. It's a discipline, often met with both comfort and challenge, but always leading us back to rest in Christ. Even in our inconsistency or distraction, God's grace draws us near, reminding us that Jesus modeled this rhythm of retreat and communion with the Father (Luke 5:16). True peace isn't something we manufacture—it's something we enter into.

A father's love never gives up on his kids.

The Unbelief of Anxiety, the Grace of Adoption, and the Care of the Heavenly Father” (Luke 12;22-34) by Edgington EPC

The Oasis Church exists to glorify God through exegetical preaching, deep, relational community, and outreach to the world. Learn more about The Oasis Church at:www.theoasischurch.net

Other Scripture used: Philemon 1:15; Hebrews 12:11; 1 Corinthians 13:9-10; 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12; James 1:19-20; John 3:16; Galatians 2:20Main Points:The Traits of a Loving FatherHe loves his child enough to let them leaveHe loves his child enough to let them experience the consequences of their choicesHe loves his child enough to never give up and believe God for their returnHe loves his child enough to run to embrace themHe loves his child enough to listen to their brokennessHe loves his child enough to quickly forgive, restore their honor and celebrate their miracleHe loves his child enough to love two prodigals at the same time

The weekly sermon from Alfred Almond Bible Church in Almond, NY

Dr. Blake White preaches a sermon titled "The Heart of the Father" based on Luke 15.

Dr. Blake White preaches a sermon titled "The Heart of the Father" based on Luke 15.

Luke 15:11-32 - Caleb Galloway - Delighting in God our Father

Talk 1 is Father Luke's homily in which he shares the news of Theodore McCarrick's passing. Talk 2 is further comments from Father Luke regarding the topic of societal structures of sin. Talk 3 is Brother Pius on the need for forgiveness and healing. Listen to learn more!

Talk 1 is Father Luke's homily for Laetare Sunday. Talk 2 is further comments from Father Luke regarding the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Talk 3 is Brother Pius on the Parable of the Forgiving Father. Listen to learn more!

Sermon for the Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany (C) Sunday, 23 February A+D 2025 Rev. Matthew D. Ruesch

Is there such a thing as a natural monk? Saint Luke was born in 896 to pious parents who came from Aegina but were forced to settle on the Greek mainland due to Saracen raids. From his earliest years, he showed a desire for a life of ascesis and contemplation usually only found in seasoned elders. He abstained from all flesh, cheese, eggs, and delicacies, drank only water, and kept a total fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. While herding cattle or tilling the family fields, he would often give away his food and even his clothing to the poor, returning home naked. When his father died, he abandoned farm work to devote himself entirely to prayer, making such progress that he was often lifted above the ground while praying. After a time he secretly left home and entered a monastery in Athens (he was now only fourteen years old), but the abbot sent him home after seeing his mother every night in dream, tearfully calling for her son. He returned home for a while, but when he had obtained her permission to leave once again set out upon the monastic life. He traveled widely, living as a hermit in various places, sometimes attached to a monastery and sometimes not. Often he would be forced to move by the number of visitors who learned of his holiness, no matter how secretly he tried to live, and came to him for prayer or a word of counsel or prophecy. Once he lived for three years on the island of Ampelon; his sister would occasionally bring him some bread, but he gave much of it away to the needy or to passing sailors. Finally, his health damaged, he returned to the mainland at the entreaties of his disciples and settled at a place called Stirion (which may be a corruption of Soterion), where he built a hermitage.   Saint Luke fell ill in his seventh year at Stirion. Embracing his disciples, he asked them to pray for him, prophesying that the place where he died would someday be the site of a great church and monastery; he then reposed in peace and joy.   His tomb exuded a fragrant oil which was collected and burned in a lamp, and many miracles and healings were wrought at the tomb. As the Saint had predicted, two churches and a monastery were built there, and the monastery of Hosios Lukas became a great place of pilgrimage, as it remains to this day.

In this week's episode, Father Luke Wilgenbusch and I are diving into the importance of the priesthood and why priests are such a vital gift to our Catholic faith. As midlife Catholic women, we often juggle family, work, and community, and it can be easy to overlook the powerful role of the priesthood in our spiritual lives. Yet, without the priesthood, we wouldn't have the Eucharist—the greatest gift God has given us! Father Wilgenbusch shares his perspective on the sacredness and responsibility of being a priest, acknowledging the tension between the human flaws of each priest and the sacramental grace that flows through them. It's a beautiful reminder that priests are human like us, but they also carry out an extraordinary mission to bring Christ to us in the sacraments. We also discuss how we can support the priesthood, especially in the midst of all the negativity and criticism priests sometimes face. Prayer, encouragement, and loving constructive feedback are just some of the ways we can help lift up our priests, who carry a heavy spiritual burden for us all. As Catholic moms, we are uniquely positioned to strengthen the priesthood by recognizing the importance of these men who serve in our parishes. Father also offers a thoughtful response to the question of why the priesthood is reserved for men, sharing the deeper theological and spiritual reasons behind the Church's teaching. Tune in for this heartwarming and insightful conversation, and learn how you can be a greater support to the priesthood in your own life. Let's pray, uplift, and appreciate our priests for the incredible role they play in bringing us closer to Christ. Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

Guest Preacher: Marco Rankin Boldness in Prayer (Verses 5–6)​ Persistence in Prayer (Verse 7)​ God's Generosity and Faithfulness (Verses 8–12)​ ​The Ultimate Gift: The Holy Spirit (Verse 13)​

Reading Luke 2:46-52 where a 12-year-old Jesus is teaching in the temple, asking questions and amazing the teachers with his answers, doing the business of His Father. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

The Faithfulness of the Father | Luke 15:11-17 | Bro. Josiah Connor

Lost and Found: The Forgiving Father

Pastor Shaun gives a relevant word from the story of the prodigal son about having a relationship with a loving Father,

Mercy, Grace, and Compassion: The Compassionate Father - Luke 15 - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - a2vc.org. Like us on fb.com/vineyardannarbor or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - vimeo.com/annarborvineyard Summary: In this thought-provoking sermon from the series "Mercy, Grace, Compassion," Pastor Donnell begins by defining these interconnected concepts before delving into the familiar parable of the Prodigal Son. He offers a fresh perspective that shifts our focus to the father's extraordinary display of mercy, challenging societal norms of the time. By comparing the father's actions to those typically associated with a mother's love, Pastor Donnell challenges our conventional understanding of God's character and invites us to reconsider our image of divine mercy.   Pastor Donnell expertly weaves together the story's narrative, highlighting the father's compassionate response to his wayward son's return and contrasting it with the older brother's struggle to accept such boundless forgiveness. This exploration of the elder brother's perspective mirrors our own potential hesitations when faced with extending mercy to those we deem less deserving. Through this, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own attitudes towards mercy and justice, and to recognize the transformative power of God's kindness in leading us to repentance.   The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder of the importance of our perception of God, emphasizing that a compassionate, merciful, and grace-filled image of the Divine can inspire us to live more courageous and kingdom-oriented lives. Pastor Donnell leaves the audience with a challenge to allow the Holy Spirit to renovate their hearts, enabling them to more fully embrace and embody the merciful nature of God in their own lives and relationships. This message reinforces that mercy is not just a theological concept, but a practical action that can profoundly affect how we interact with others in our community.

Pastor Brent Averill

Welcome back to The Changed Life! This week, Pastor Chris and Pastor Ken dive deep into the latest installment of our Sermon Series Sons & Daughters, The Father (Luke 15). In case you missed this weeks service make sure to watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Ze4AXjahkQw

Pastor Ryan gives our Good Friday sermon. Highlights: 1. Jesus' heath for those who misunderstood HimLuke 22:26-312. Jesus' heart for His enemies Luke 23:32-383. Jesus' heart for sinner to be reconciled to the Father Luke 22:39-49Connect with us!springlakechurch.org/getconnectedspringlakechurch.orgNeed Prayer? We'd love to pray for you!springlakechurch.org/prayer

Pastor Jeff L gives our Good Friday sermon. Highlights: Matthew 16:21-23Matthew 27:25Luke 23:26-49Philippians 2:1-81. Jesus' heath for those who misunderstood HimLuke 22:26-312. Jesus' heart for His enemies Luke 23:32-383. Jesus' heart for sinner to be reconciled to the Father Luke 22:39-49Connect with us!springlakechurch.org/getconnectedspringlakechurch.orgNeed Prayer? We'd love to pray for you!springlakechurch.org/prayer

Is there such a thing as a natural monk? Saint Luke was born in 896 to pious parents who came from Aegina but were forced to settle on the Greek mainland due to Saracen raids. From his earliest years, he showed a desire for a life of ascesis and contemplation usually only found in seasoned elders. He abstained from all flesh, cheese, eggs, and delicacies, drank only water, and kept a total fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. While herding cattle or tilling the family fields, he would often give away his food and even his clothing to the poor, returning home naked. When his father died, he abandoned farm work to devote himself entirely to prayer, making such progress that he was often lifted above the ground while praying. After a time he secretly left home and entered a monastery in Athens (he was now only fourteen years old), but the abbot sent him home after seeing his mother every night in dream, tearfully calling for her son. He returned home for a while, but when he had obtained her permission to leave once again set out upon the monastic life. He traveled widely, living as a hermit in various places, sometimes attached to a monastery and sometimes not. Often he would be forced to move by the number of visitors who learned of his holiness, no matter how secretly he tried to live, and came to him for prayer or a word of counsel or prophecy. Once he lived for three years on the island of Ampelon; his sister would occasionally bring him some bread, but he gave much of it away to the needy or to passing sailors. Finally, his health damaged, he returned to the mainland at the entreaties of his disciples and settled at a place called Stirion (which may be a corruption of Soterion), where he built a hermitage.   Saint Luke fell ill in his seventh year at Stirion. Embracing his disciples, he asked them to pray for him, prophesying that the place where he died would someday be the site of a great church and monastery; he then reposed in peace and joy.   His tomb exuded a fragrant oil which was collected and burned in a lamp, and many miracles and healings were wrought at the tomb. As the Saint had predicted, two churches and a monastery were built there, and the monastery of Hosios Lukas became a great place of pilgrimage, as it remains to this day.

Is there such a thing as a natural monk? Saint Luke was born in 896 to pious parents who came from Aegina but were forced to settle on the Greek mainland due to Saracen raids. From his earliest years, he showed a desire for a life of ascesis and contemplation usually only found in seasoned elders. He abstained from all flesh, cheese, eggs, and delicacies, drank only water, and kept a total fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. While herding cattle or tilling the family fields, he would often give away his food and even his clothing to the poor, returning home naked. When his father died, he abandoned farm work to devote himself entirely to prayer, making such progress that he was often lifted above the ground while praying. After a time he secretly left home and entered a monastery in Athens (he was now only fourteen years old), but the abbot sent him home after seeing his mother every night in dream, tearfully calling for her son. He returned home for a while, but when he had obtained her permission to leave once again set out upon the monastic life. He traveled widely, living as a hermit in various places, sometimes attached to a monastery and sometimes not. Often he would be forced to move by the number of visitors who learned of his holiness, no matter how secretly he tried to live, and came to him for prayer or a word of counsel or prophecy. Once he lived for three years on the island of Ampelon; his sister would occasionally bring him some bread, but he gave much of it away to the needy or to passing sailors. Finally, his health damaged, he returned to the mainland at the entreaties of his disciples and settled at a place called Stirion (which may be a corruption of Soterion), where he built a hermitage.   Saint Luke fell ill in his seventh year at Stirion. Embracing his disciples, he asked them to pray for him, prophesying that the place where he died would someday be the site of a great church and monastery; he then reposed in peace and joy.   His tomb exuded a fragrant oil which was collected and burned in a lamp, and many miracles and healings were wrought at the tomb. As the Saint had predicted, two churches and a monastery were built there, and the monastery of Hosios Lukas became a great place of pilgrimage, as it remains to this day.