Podcasts about Frodo Baggins

Deen Salami | Guest Pastor Standing Firm: A Look at Stephen Check out the weekly sermon here or on our SRBC podcast on Apple Podcast and Spotify. While you're at it, check us out on Facebook and Instagram too. Like what you hear? We'd love to know.At South Run, we read every message personally. Whether you have a question, want to share how God is moving in your life, or are thinking about visiting in person, this is the place to start. If you click the link below, Pastor Eric will personally reach out to you. Listening online? Let us know. Sermon Transcript Standing Firm: What Stephen's Martyrdom in Acts 6–7 Teaches Us About Faith Under Fire — Sermon TranscriptSouth Run Baptist Church | Springfield, VA Guest Preacher: Deen SalamiActs 6:8–7:60June 7, 2026This is a full sermon transcript from South Run Baptist Church in Springfield, Virginia. In this message, guest preacher Deen Salami preaches on the martyrdom of Stephen from Acts 6–7. This sermon addresses how Stephen — an ordinary believer full of faith and the Holy Spirit — stood firm against hate and persecution before the Sanhedrin, what his conduct, his defense, and his death reveal about the cost of following Jesus, and why the church's first martyr was not a tragic accident but a catalyst for the spread of the gospel. Opening: A Passage That Can Almost Preach ItselfI am a little excited today about the message. We've got a lot of ground to cover. There's a large section of scripture that I want us to go through. I'm going to act as your guide. It's not very often that there are passages of scripture that actually can preach themselves. This passage just might be one of them. So what I'd like to do is just to act as your guide. I'll read through big chunks of scripture and I'll just make a couple of observations for us to consider as we do. To do that, though, I'll only need about another hour. Are you guys good with that? I know better than to get in the way of lunch, so I'll make sure that I'll get through this thing in a reasonable amount of time, and I promise we'll survive the experience, all right? All right, why don't you join me in prayer? Gracious God and Father, behold this time. It is you who have called all these people here. None are here by accident. You have assigned me to this task for this day and this hour, and I just pray, Lord God, that you would act and move. Empower now your servant to be able to bring forth this majesty for your people's benefit and for the glory of your great name. May everything that be said and done would be pleasing to you. We pray all of this in Jesus' name. Amen. Context: Who Was Stephen, and Why Does He Matter?Now, we've already had the first section of our passage read to us. We're going to look at the first martyr of the early church. If you guys know, that is a follower by the name of Stephen. Before he was crucified, Jesus warned the disciples that the world would hate them because of him, and as a result, they would suffer persecution. So how do we stand firm against the hate and persecution? Well, Stephen is going to help us answer that question because he experienced exactly what Jesus said he would. How he handles the hate is a great example for us to follow. Now, again, we've already read that first section in Acts 6:1–8, but as we go into the commentary of it, I want you to consider three simple things: the charges brought before Stephen, his conduct throughout this whole trial, and what it costs him at the end. Three things — charges, his conduct, and the cost. The gospel was being preached early on. It's the early part of the church's existence. The gospel was being preached, and after an early reception by the masses, opposition began to rise, specifically from the religious leaders. Stephen was a Hellenistic Jew, which means that his native tongue was not Aramaic, but it was Greek. He was also a Diaspora Jew, meaning that he was not born and raised inside Israel proper. He was born and raised outside of Israel. He came to Jerusalem, heard the gospel, and became a believer. He was not one of the original 12. He had no special place of prominence. In fact, when we first learn of Stephen a few verses earlier, he was in charge of food distribution for the church. In other words, Stephen was a simple, normal person, just like any one of us. His only desire was to serve and to be used by God. Now look at how he was described in this section. It says that he was full of God's grace and power, and he performed great signs and wonders. Up until this point, that description was only made of the apostles. But he ran into his fellow Diaspora Jews, and they could not withstand him in debate, because the Spirit of God had given him great wisdom. Since they were unable to defeat Stephen in debate, they slandered him, brought him up on trumped-up charges, and dragged him before the Sanhedrin. And this, by the way, is the third time that a follower of Jesus was dragged before the Sanhedrin. The first time it was Peter and John for healing a lame man. But because the crowds were praising God, they let them go. The second time was with all 12 apostles. They were beaten and sternly warned no longer to preach the gospel. This time, the Diaspora Jews were mobilized as a mob against Stephen, and if you were hearing properly and paying attention, you noticed that Stephen is alone. Incidentally, this is the same council that sentenced Jesus to death. The Charges Against Stephen: Disrespecting Moses and the TempleSo let's hear the charges brought against Stephen. It was the disrespect of the law — which is referred to as Moses — and the disrespect of God, the temple, because they believed that God's presence was in the temple. But Stephen is going to take these two charges and turn them on his accusers. But for now, I want to draw your attention to how Luke describes Stephen as he stands before the Sanhedrin. He says that he has the face of an angel. Now, I doubt very much that the Sanhedrin thought Stephen was hot, right? But what is it that made his appearance unmistakable? The question I want us to consider is, how is it possible that a normal person like Stephen — who was not part of the inner circle of Jesus — is able to do the things that Stephen had done and was described the way Luke describes him? Acts 6:5 — Full of Faith and the Holy Spirit: What That Actually MeansAnd I believe that the answer is found in verse 5 of chapter 6. This is the very first description we have of Stephen: he's a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. But the question is, what does that mean exactly? Let me start with full of faith. Because there are three aspects of faith that we see in Stephen. First, there's an intellectual determination. What do I mean by that? It simply means that he's asking himself, is the gospel true, and do I believe it? Am I a sinner, like the gospel says, and do I need a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ? Stephen's answer is yes. The second is, do I trust Jesus? Will I submit my life to him and proclaim him as my Lord? Again, Stephen answers, yes. But finally, will I commit everything to him, even if it means my death? And as we will see, Stephen will answer that question yes as well. But let me ask us all a question here. How are we doing in these three aspects? For most Christians, they're okay intellectually up here. Do I need a Savior? Yes. But it's the other two that they stumble at. Is he actually Lord? Am I running my own life? Do I just need Jesus as an advisor — I'll call on him when I need to? Or is he actually Lord? Do we actually commit our lives to him, willing to die? Because Stephen was all in with Jesus, it gave the Holy Spirit free reign to use Stephen any way he wanted. Not like a puppet, but as an active and willing partner in the work of advancing the kingdom. It's like the Fellowship of the Ring. Do you guys remember the Fellowship of the Ring? Remember when Frodo said he was going to go and take the ring to Mordor? Aragorn said to him, if by my life or death I can protect you, I will. Why? Because the fate of Middle Earth hung in the balance, right? But for us today, it's the souls — the eternal souls of people — that hang in the balance. And the only hope for them is Jesus Christ. Amen? If by our life or death, if we have the opportunity to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ, will we? Are we all in like Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit? What the Sanhedrin saw in Stephen was the very presence of the divine emanating from him. But let's move on and see what happens next. Acts 7:1–16: Stephen's Defense Begins — Summarizing Genesis 12 Through Exodus 1 from Memory I'm going to read from chapter 7, verse 1. "Then the high priest asked Stephen, are these charges true? To this he replied, brothers and fathers, listen to me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia before he lived in Haran. Leave your country and your people, God said, and go to the land I will show you. So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. He gave him no inheritance here, not even enough ground to set his foot on. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no children. God spoke to him in this way, for 400 years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, God said, and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place. Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision, and Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later, Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs. Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace. Then a famine struck all of Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our ancestors could not find food. When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our forefathers on their first visit. On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was. And Pharaoh learned about Joseph's family. After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, 75 in all. Then Jacob went down to Egypt where he and our ancestors died. Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money. And as the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt had greatly increased. Then a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt. He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our ancestors by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die." Now, for those of you who may have picked up on it, Stephen just summarized Genesis 12 all the way through Exodus 1. Genesis 12 is where we have God's promise to bless the world through Abram. Stephen starts there and ends in Exodus chapter 1. That is approximately 39 chapters that he summarized from memory under pressure. Now, if you were on the Sanhedrin, what would you be thinking right now about the charge of disrespecting the law? At least at this point, it looks like that charge is on kind of shaky ground. In fact, some of the Sanhedrin might be looking at Stephen and secretly giving him a thumbs up. Way to go, bro. Good job, all right? Why Stephen Uses Geography and the Stories of Joseph and Moses StrategicallyWhat I don't want you to miss, though, is how Stephen is telling this story. I want you to notice the way Stephen is making use of geography — Mesopotamia, Haran, Israel, Egypt. He is summarizing what God did in those places, but why is he doing this? Also, I want you to keep in mind what he says about Joseph and his brothers. I'm going to develop that here in a minute. Just be patient, okay? Now, before we move on, I want to highlight how Stephen addresses his adversaries. To the mob, he refers to them as brothers. To the Sanhedrin, he refers to them as fathers. This mob who dragged him forcefully before the Sanhedrin, and this council that not only sentenced Jesus to death but beat the 12 apostles — the question on the table is, why is Stephen so cordial? A few observations. First, he does not seem to be taking their behavior toward him personally. The moment is not lost on Stephen. He's acutely aware of the danger he is in, but he remembers his mission, which was the same as Jesus. He does not want to condemn them. He wants them to know the truth. So he speaks to them in a way fitting that purpose. He does not retaliate against them for mistreating him. Second, Stephen understands that their behavior is symptomatic of a bigger issue. He knows what the Apostle Paul will later go on to understand and share with Timothy. As we read in 2 Timothy 2:25–26, Paul says this: "Opponents must be gently instructed in the hope that God will grant them repentance, leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil who has taken them captive to do his will." Stephen understands that these people have been taken captive by the devil so that they would do his will. But Stephen hopes that they will come to their senses. So he begins by instructing them gently. And in his approach, Stephen is reflecting the very heart of God. Back in Ezekiel 33:11, we hear God say this: "As surely as I live, declares the sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways. Why will you die, people of Israel?" Stephen does not clap back at them. Third, he is gentle because he is focused. He knows it's not about him. This encounter is much bigger than Stephen, and he is keenly aware of it, and we can tell by the way he conducts himself. It's a powerful lesson for us today, isn't it? If we're going to stand firm against hate and persecution, we will resist the urge to take people's behavior toward us personally. We remember that their behavior is symptomatic of a bigger issue. They are captives of the devil, and what we want to stay focused on is our mission to be active agents in freeing them through spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. Now one last point before we move on. We are 19 verses into Stephen's speech and in all his words, Stephen is not trying to defend himself. He has not yet answered the question that was put before him: are these charges true? He hasn't quite answered that question, at least not directly. Acts 7:20–43: Moses, the Burning Bush, and the Pattern of Rejected MessengersBut let's get back to the rest of Stephen's speech, because I think we'll find some more for us to consider. "Now at that time, Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months, he was cared for by his family. When he was placed outside, Pharaoh's daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action. When Moses was 40 years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. The next day, Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, men, you are brothers. Why do you want to hurt each other? But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday? When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons. After 40 years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to get a closer look, he heard the Lord say, I am the Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look. Then the Lord said to him, take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt. This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, who made you ruler and judge. He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea, and for 40 years in the wilderness." Once again, Stephen has done an excellent job in summarizing that next section. He pretty accurately brings the story to the lawgiver himself, the man Moses. But let me begin to tie some pieces of this puzzle together for us. Stephen brings up Joseph and Moses very strategically. Joseph, with his dreams, and Moses, even at his birth, were both marked by God for God's use and for the good of his people. But in both cases, they were originally rejected. In other words, our ancestors, says Stephen, missed God's messengers the first time. Even though the signs were there, they rejected their God-appointed leaders the first time. And Stephen is about to be very clear about the implications of this for them. He mentions God being with Moses in Midian and in Egypt. All the geographical references that Stephen has made is the point he's taking aim at — the misunderstanding of the temple. They refer to the temple as this holy place. But yet Stephen reminds the Sanhedrin that when Moses was in Midian on Mount Sinai, Moses was commanded to remove his sandals because where he was standing was holy ground. So which is it? Is it the holy ground that Moses was standing on in Mount Sinai in Midian? Or is it this holy place, the temple in Jerusalem? Wherever the presence of God touches down becomes holy. What Stephen is saying is that God is not bound by any single location. This is what the Sanhedrin failed to see in their attempt to defend the temple. And it is a pattern that Stephen is pointing out for them. In addition, Jesus sternly rebuked the religious leaders when he turned over the tables of the money changers and called the temple a den of thieves, because they were keeping people from God. God had left the building, and they were completely oblivious. Let me highlight the wisdom Stephen is using here. First, he knows the word and how to apply it to the situation he is presently in. Second, he understands the charges brought against him and how to use those same charges to highlight the error of his accusers. And finally, he does not lose focus of his mission. And the question on the table for us is, if we were under this pressure, could we do the same? Acts 7:44–53: Stephen Flips the Script — You Are the Ones Who Violated the LawNow Stephen is about to end his time with the Sanhedrin, and it's going to be a colossal end. Let's finish reading. "This is the Moses who told the Israelites, God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people. He was in the assembly in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai and with our ancestors, and he received living words to pass on to us. But our ancestors refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him, and their hearts turned back to Egypt. They told Aaron, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him. That was the time they made an idol in the form of a calf. They brought sacrifices to it and reveled in it in what their own hands had made. But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon, and stars. This agrees with what is written in the book of the prophets: did you bring me sacrifices and offerings 40 years in the wilderness, people of Israel? You have taken up the tabernacle of Molech and the star of your God Rephan, the idols you made to worship. Therefore, I will send you into exile beyond Babylon. Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the covenant law with them in the wilderness. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. After receiving the tabernacle, our ancestors under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, who enjoyed God's favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who built a house for him. However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says, heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build me, says the Lord? Or where will my resting place be? Has not my hand made all these things? You stiff-necked people, your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You were just like your ancestors. You always resist the Holy Spirit. Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him. You who have received the law that was given through angels, but have not yet obeyed it." Stephen ends his speech with a powerful rebuke of the Sanhedrin and this mob. The history of the Jewish people had been one of rebellion, culminating in the murder of Jesus, their long-awaited Messiah. Just as they did with Joseph and Moses, they missed Jesus the first time. I want you to underline verse 53. Stephen courageously tells the truth and provides a proper diagnosis of their problem. In so doing, he flips the script. So you accuse me of violating the law and desecrating the temple? I'm not guilty of either one of these, but you are. The evidence he provides is rightly in the law of Moses, and he records the embarrassing incident with the golden calf. This was abject idolatry, which got them exiled, and it's clear that their stubborn rebellion continued to blind them. Making the Means the End: The Sanhedrin's Fatal Error with the Law and the TempleThe inherent problem the Sanhedrin and the mob suffered from was that they made the means the end and did away with the end itself. What do I mean by that? Well, in Galatians 3:24–25, Paul says this: "So the law was our guardian until Christ came, that we might be justified by faith. Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian." The law was the means by which we would be ready for Christ, who was literally the end of the law — he was what the law was preparing us for. But they made the means, the law, the end, and did away with the end itself, Jesus. Jesus says the same thing about the temple. In Mark 11:17, Jesus says this: "My house will be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves." The temple was the means by which all the nations would come to know who God is and pray to him. They turned the temple into a money-making machine, and they did away with God altogether. It's the same pattern. Acts 7:54–60: The Stoning of Stephen — Dying Like His LordLike all who stubbornly live in rebellion and refuse to hear the truth, they go after Stephen. "When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Look, he said, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of the young man named Saul. And while they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Then he fell on his knees and cried out, Lord, do not hold this sin against them. When he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul approved of their killing." Stephen took a bold stand and it cost him his life. But here's the beauty of this passage. Stephen died in the same way his Lord did. He dies praying for the forgiveness of the people stoning him, just like Jesus. And because Stephen was so faithful to his call, the heavens opened so that Stephen sees the Lord Jesus rise from his throne to welcome his faithful servant home. How to Stand Firm Against Hate and Persecution: Look Up, Not AroundHow do we stand firm in the face of hate and persecution? First and foremost, we look up, not around. We look to Jesus. We need to be focused on Jesus because he is all he's asking us to be, and he has done all he's asking us to do. That includes suffering for his sake. Second, we need to remember one important thing. We're not simply spectators or victims. We are active agents of change. In other words, we do not lose sight of the mission, because this is why we are here. You know, I know some people — I've spoken to some people about this passage — and they seem to think that it's unfair for Stephen to have died. After all, why couldn't God have saved him? He saved the apostles. He saved John and Peter. Why couldn't he have saved Stephen? But if we read Acts 1:8, where Jesus told the disciples that they would be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and in the uttermost parts of the world, we begin to realize one important thing. Up until this point, guess where the church was localized? Jerusalem. Guess where they had their small groups? Jerusalem. Guess where they had their worship time? Jerusalem. But where were they supposed to go? But after Stephen was killed, we read this: "On that day, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Stephen's death was the catalyst for the advancement of the gospel outside of Jerusalem. Remember, our faith is not a faith that we simply talk about. Our faith is a full contact sport. If by my life or death I can advance the gospel, I will. Stephen did it by his death. Closing: Active Agents of God's Redemptive WorkLet me read you one quote as I close. It says, "Suffering becomes the ongoing evidence that creation awaits restoration. And believers, bearing God's image and indwelt by the Spirit, participate in that redemptive work. Rather than passive victims of evil, they become agents through whom God's original creative intention progressively reasserts itself against the disorder introduced by sin." Will you be a part of that? Because this is our purpose. And once we understand our purpose and totally embrace it, then we look at the world very differently. We can stop asking why the world is the way it is. Because that's really the wrong question. The right question is, what are we going to do about it? Because we are supposed to be the active and willing participants in God's redemptive work. Is this work dangerous? Yeah. Stephen found that out very clearly. Remember, Jesus died for us first. So it is not like God is asking us to throw away our lives cavalierly. Far from it. Stephen understood the stakes and was keenly aware of the moment. But he determined that his life was worthy of sacrificing for the gospel. He stood firm. Can we? Let me pray. Our gracious God and Father, we thank you for this time that we can be in your word. We are reminded, Lord, that it's you who preserved your word, lo, these 2,000 years for us, this generation of believers, to learn and glean from. I pray, Father, for whatever lessons that may have been brought out here, that those seeds would be scattered in the hearts of your people and that they would grow into folks that would stand firm for the advancement of the gospel. Our only desire, Lord God, is like Stephen. We ask humbly that you would use us as we serve, and that you would be glorified. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Amen. South Run Baptist Church | 8712 Selger Drive, Springfield, VA 22153 | Sunday Worship at 11am Serving Springfield, Burke, West Springfield, Lorton, Alexandria, Fort Belvoir, and Franconia, Virginia. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Join The Man of the West as we begin a four-episode read-through of letter 246 — in which Tolkien defends Frodo, demolishes simple-minded heroism, and gives us the entire argument in three words. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Father Anthony talks with returning guest co-host Dr. Brad Birzer, as we reach what Frodo had hoped was the end of his quest and begin to find that it has only just begun. Music attribution: Hidden Past and Celtic Impulse, both by Kevin MacLeod (www.incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Join The Man of the West as we approach the Tower of Cirith Ungol with Sam — from leaving Frodo's body behind, to the Two Watchers at the gate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, the beloved first volume of The Lord of the Rings. As we follow Frodo and his companions on the first stage of their journey, we explore Tolkien's rich vision of a world where evil leaves its mark on everything it touches, yet goodness, beauty, and hope endure.Along the way, we reflect on the surprising courage and humility of the hobbits, the power of friendship in the face of darkness, and Tolkien's gift for storytelling. We consider why this story continues to resonate with readers and what it reveals about courage, sacrifice, fellowship, and perseverance in a fallen world.Resources:The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R TolkienJ.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography by Humphrey CarpenterThe Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Hur är det att åka omkring i en månad med husbilen i Frankrike? Vackra vägar, mysiga byar, god mat och gott vin blev det! Och tänk så trevliga och artiga fransmännen är! Catarina Johansson Nyman och Björn Andersson mötte våren med hunden Frodo i sin plåtis Bilbo.

Llévate un GTA 6 y un Marvel's Lobezno haciéndote Patreon de Reconectados, y ayúdanos a seguir adelante con el podcast: https://www.patreon.com/reconectados LEGO Batman: El Legado del Caballero Oscuro es probablemente el mejor juego de LEGO que se haya hecho, y todo un homenaje al superhéroe de DC en todas sus apariciones y formatos, con el humor de los ladrillos de plástico. Lo analizamos junto a Zero Parades for Dead Spies, el nuevo e imprescindible videojuego de rol y decisiones de los creadores de Disco Elysium. Además, comentamos los filtrados planes de PlayStation para dejar de sacar sus juegos principales en PC, quedándose en exclusivas en consola PS5, un cambio radical de estrategia, noticia que viene acompañada con otros movimientos como la subida de precio de PS Plus o la confirmación oficial de que los creadores de Kingdom Come Deliverance están con un juego de El Señor de los Anillos. Por otra parte, Borja nos cuenta sus impresiones con el precioso y más que apetecible The Adventures of Eliot: The Millennium Tales, y llega por fin el Re-Análisis de Grand Theft Auto V, el juegazo que votaron los Patreons para que volviéramos a jugar y que salió hace 13 años pero que todavía se mantiene impecable y completamente referente en su género. ¡Muchas gracias por escucharnos, por apoyarnos, y os leemos en comentarios! Time stamps: (00:00:00) - Introducción, se viene nuevo y prometedor State of Play (00:06:45) - PlayStation cambia de estrategia con los exclusivos (00:20:34) - Subida de precio del Plus (00:26:53) - Kingdom Come Deliverance con Galdalf y Frodo (00:32:16) - Análisis LEGO Batman: ¡todo es fabuloso! (00:54:24) - Análisis Zero Parades: For Dead Spies, otra obra maestra (01:18:18) - Impresiones The Adventures of Eliot: The Millennium Tales (01:27:13) - Re-Análisis Grand Theft Auto V (02:01:39) - Despedida y el mes de mayo "flojo" ¡Apoya Reconectados, decide y participa en todos los sorteos! ✅ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/reconectados ️ ¡Sigue nuestro canal de Twitch! ️ ✅ Suscríbete a Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/reconectados ¡Únete a nuestro grupo de Telegram de ofertas! ✅ Canal de ofertas: https://t.me/ofertasvideojuegosreco ️ ¡Escucha Reconectados cada semana: Jueves 07:00am! ️ Ivoox: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-reconectados-videojuegos_sq_f1467878_1.html Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TzgUfUZppavUlKeRreIXL Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/es/podcast/reconectados-videojuegos/id1304330116 ¡Síguenos en redes sociales! X-Twitter: @ReconectadosPod Jabote: @Jabote22 Manu: @ManuGmn Paula: @paulacroft02 Borja: @borjaruete TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reconectadospod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReconectadosPodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconectadospod/

Una reliquia familiar cae en las manos de Frodo y cambia su vida para siempre. Ahora deberá unirse a Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Boromir, Sam, Merry y Pippin en la primera campaña de Dungeons and Dragons de la historia.The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2026)Dirigida por Peter JacksonApóyanos en nuestro viaje al Summer Game Fest:https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/updateando-Puedes apoyarnos y tener acceso anticipado enhttps://www.patreon.com/updateando Show en vivo y más contenido enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/updateando-https://www.instagram.com/updateando/https://twitter.com/updateandohttps://www.facebook.com/updateando/https://discord.gg/YftZeAj-Sigue a Lego:https://twitter.com/Lego_Rodriguezhttps://www.instagram.com/Lego__RodriguezSigue a Mei:https://www.instagram.com/meimeimei.___Sigue a Cham:https://x.com/Cham311#ElSeñorDeLosAnillos #LOTR #Gandalf

Una reliquia familiar cae en las manos de Frodo y cambia su vida para siempre. Ahora deberá unirse a Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Boromir, Sam, Merry y Pippin en la primera campaña de Dungeons and Dragons de la historia.The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2026)Dirigida por Peter JacksonApóyanos en nuestro viaje al Summer Game Fest:https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/updateando-Puedes apoyarnos y tener acceso anticipado enhttps://www.patreon.com/updateando Show en vivo y más contenido enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/updateando-https://www.instagram.com/updateando/https://twitter.com/updateandohttps://www.facebook.com/updateando/https://discord.gg/YftZeAj-Sigue a Lego:https://twitter.com/Lego_Rodriguezhttps://www.instagram.com/Lego__RodriguezSigue a Mei:https://www.instagram.com/meimeimei.___Sigue a Cham:https://x.com/Cham311#ElSeñorDeLosAnillos #LOTR #Gandalf

After a week off due to Izzy finally moving into the new house, NAFC is back—and this time with a guest. Sindi joins the boys for an episode that immediately devolves into complete nonsense in the best way possible.The gang bounces between sperm whales, video games, movies, and the truly important debate: who wins in a fight, Frodo or Harry Potter? There's also plenty of millennial gamer nostalgia as everyone reminisces about the “good old days” before battle passes, launcher apps, and patch notes became full-time jobs.They also squeeze in a brief review of Hoppers (2025), talk about the upcoming Resident Evil movie, Gibbs checks back in on The Pitt, and Sindi shares thoughts on Manifest.It's chaotic, unfocused, and exactly what you'd expect after a week-long break.Support us on Patreon!

What if a performance could borrow your memories and hand them back changed? We dive into the hidden link between music, juggling, and dance by exploring the brain's precuneus—the region that lights up when art stops being “out there” and becomes personal. When you like a piece of music, your brain flips from hearing to identifying. That same switch can flip for movement arts, turning clean patterns and intentional transitions into visual music that feels like your own story.I share why difficulty and risk are only the front door—and how depth begins when patterns breathe long enough for the audience to anticipate change and feel it in their gut. We talk about intrusion versus belonging: why unwanted sound feels like tampering, and why trust, pacing, and context invite people into a receptive state. From a tightwire's held breath to a 40-minute pole sequence, the work is the same—sustain intention, reveal structure, let the audience do the meaning-making their brain is built for.We also get practical. How do you help non-experts read complex movement the way they read music? Offer onramps. Start with motifs. Pair gestures with sound that supports the narrative. Use language that points without pinning. And above all, commit to flow—because a single drop or restart can break identification the way a pianist stopping mid-phrase can eject you from the piece. When connection holds, even familiar phrases like follow your dreams shed their cliché and land as real prompts for action.Call it showmanship, visual music, or embodied storytelling—the test is simple: did it move the watcher? If the answer is yes, they'll leave with new memories that feel self-authored, which is the quiet magic of live art. If this resonates, tap follow, share the episode with someone who loves performance, and drop a review to tell us the last time a show truly changed you.Support the show...After a long abscence our Merch Shop is back! Check out t-shirts, hoddies, and hats! Show yourself as a Follower of the Way of the Showman.You can also "listen" to the Way of the Showman at youtube.If you want to help support this podcast it would be tremendous if you wrote a glowing review on iTunes or Spotify.If you want to  contact me about anyhthing ou can reach me on thewayoftheshowman@gmail.comYou can find out more on the Way of the Showman website.Follow the Way of the Showman on Instagram.If you're compelled to suport the showes and have the means to do so, you can suport the podcast financially at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/captainfrodo

Frodo the cat serves as the ultimate horror witness in A Quiet Place: Day One (with Lupita Nyong’o) Crypticon Seattle, the great Pacific Northwest horror convention, has once again come and gone, but the memories linger. The panels are what make the convention feel like a class reunion. The panels are produced entirely by volunteer experts from across the region and are the ultimate in fan interaction. This is what it feels like to create a horror community, sharing our ideas and experiences with each other. This year, I decided to record some of the panels I participated in and attended to give you a sense of what happens at these events. This Pets in Horror panel was hosted by Brien Gorham, and I participated in it along with Kathy Fennesy and Todd Johnstson. If you are a long-time reader of our website or a listener of our podcast, you will know that I have a big ol’ soft spot for pets in horror. Whether they are the MacGuffins, the heroes, or the villains of the story, pets provide strong emotional connective tissue within horror constructs. The use of pets also sparks some great debates regarding the narrative use of animals. Because we have such a natural affinity for critters, horror movies tend to exploit those feelings by putting the animals in peril. Fair, or not? We will talk about that in this discussion. Brien was inspired by the success of last year’s remarkable film Good Boy which we have been a huge proponent for. You can use that link to listen to an interview with director Ben Leonberg, who discusses how he coaxed an award-winning performance from his pet dog, Indy. That movie, however, is just the tip of a very big trope iceberg. Thank you to Jason and Jasen for putting me on this panel, as it is something near and dear to me, and to many attending Crypticon. Brien Gorham outlined his panel discussion topics for this panel: “Indy the Dog from Good Boy has become the latest in a line of cinematic pets to steal our hearts, but domestic animals have a long history in horror movies. Whether that be as a witness, antagonist, or, as in the case of Indy, a protagonist. Let’s discuss how our collective best friends have been represented in horror films.” Introductions Opening question: If you could choose one pet from a horror movie to have in your home, who would you choose and why? Some larger questions that can be applied to any category: How do our personal relationships with pets affect how we see them in stories? (Please feel free to include personal stories where appropriate) How does the motivation of a pet differ from human motivation? Altruism? How do we recognize animal performances? (Indy's acting win) What resources are available for those who are sensitive to animal violence?  Part 1: Pets as Witnesses Possible Movies: Cat's Eye, Poltergeist, The Hills Have Eyes I and II Let's start with movies where a family pet serves as a witness or bystander to an individual or family crisis. In these cases, what purpose does the inclusion of the pet serve? How much do we hate it when pets are introduced just to be killed off for sympathy? Part 2: Pets as Heroes Possible Movies: Good Boy, Cat's Eye, Phenomena, The Hills Have Eyes Next, let's explore pets that go above and beyond, playing an active role in saving the day. Which movie pets do you most admire? How do certain traits of specific animals play into this heroism? How much do we hate it when animals sacrifice themselves for humans? Part 3: Pets as Antagonists  Possible Movies: Cujo, Lake Placid, The Uncanny, Uninvited, Pet Sematary, The Black Cat (any version) What happens when man's best friend turns violent, and our furry friends rebel against us? The most terrifying pets in horror? The most heartbreaking transformations? Closing What beloved pets have we not seen represented in horror movies? PET HORROR RESOURCES You can check out our Favorite Horror Movie Dogs Dead List for our updated list of horror hounds for your reference. Kathy Fennessy is a former president of the Seattle Film Critics Society and runs the Seattle Film Blog. She has a blog post titled “Good Boy and Other House Pets in Horror: Purrs, barks, Growls, and Deadly Attacks.“ I find that Kathy is the unofficial research librarian for Crypticon Seattle and has a deep and thorough knowledge of the genre. For those of you who get triggered by animal harm or death in movies, please visit “Does the Dog Die?“ It’s a great resource for people who need to filter their movies for moments that will trigger anxiety, with the primary trope being that of harm to dogs. It also covers things like harm to children and rape, which are non-starter elements for many people. A Recording of Brien Gohram’s Good Boy: Pets in Horror Panel Panelists:Brien Gorham – HostKathy Fennesy Eric LiTodd Johnston Please note: I was using a compressor microphone on the table, so the audio isn’t as clean as it would be with our dynamic podcasting microphones. Todd Johnston, in particular, is a bit faint, though I did boost the audio when he is speaking. Don’t over-adjust your volume, though, because when the conversation turns back to the rest of the panelists, it picks up. A fan and her pet chihuahua attend the Crypticon Seattle Pets in Horror Panel: Note – The dog makes it! Our Discussed Films:Plus… a couple more Indy: Good Boy (2025) Chewie: Critters (1986) General: Cat’s Eye (1985) Dickie: The Beyond (1981) Thor: Bad Moon (1996) Sarii: Prey (2022) Frodo: A Quiet Place Day One (2024) Ben (1972) Lake Placid (1999) Ella: Monkey Shines (1988) Pluto: The Rule of Jenny Pen (2025) The Uninvited (1987) Willard (1971) Inga: Phenomena (1985) Jed: The Thing (1982) When Evil Lurks (2023) Baxter (1989) Frankenweenie (2012) Boy: Love and Monsters (2020) Jones: Alien (1979) Cujo (1983) Green Room (2015) Roar (1981) Max: Man’s Best Friend (1993) Clovis (and gang): Sleepwalkers (1992) Black Sheep (2006) Precious: The Silence of the Lambs (1992) Church: Pet Sematary (2019) Zoltan: The Hound of Dracula (1977) Pippet: Jaws (1975) The Legend of Hell House (1973) Sugar: Crawl (2019) Beast: The Hills Have Eyes (2006) The Black Cat (1934)

Growth doesn't happen alone. Frodo needed Gandalf. Luke needed Yoda. And someone needs...you.We know we're called to discipleship, but, uh, how? And who?This week, Hannah Driskill shows us how spiritual growth is a process that only happens when we lean into the messiness of relationship. Recorded live at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, Ohio

Emilio gives his first message as Youth Pastor of CCC.

Emilio gives his first message as Youth Pastor of CCC.

I'm making my annual trek through Middle-earth right now. Deep longing for Middle-earth hits me in the spring of the year when I am spending a lot of time in my yard and garden. As the quest begins, Frodo and the fellowship find themselves in the mines of Moria. There, Frodo gets squired by a spear thrown by a giant Orc. Everyone assumes he is dead as they watched the force of the spear hurl him back into the wall of the cave. As the company beats a retreat, he is carried out. When they are at a safe distance, they pause to catch their breath and notice Frodo stir. They are all stunned. No one could have withstood that spear thrust. Later, as they take off his cloak to tend the wound, they discover the secret of the mystery Frodo has on a coat of mithril mail, a gift to him from Bilbo. Mithril is the most prized and precious metal in Middle-earth, it could be beaten and worked like copper and polished like glass. It was lightweight and harder than still, and unlike silver, it never tarnished. When Gandalf sees it, he exclaims that the value of that coat was worth more than the whole Shire where Frodo lives.  We are going to look at a similar happening in our I AM text this Sunday when Jesus says, “I AM the resurrection and the life.” Martha, being a devout Jewish believer, believes that at the end of time her brother will be raised from the dead. But then he says something mind-boggling. The power of the resurrection is not something we only experience when we die, but is actually in us right now!It is a staggering truth to think about, one that, like Frodo, we possess but rarely think about or lay hold of in the messiness and brokenness of life. We will talk about it on Sunday. Also, we have a couple of baptisms—one infant and one a believer. Promise and fulfillment are playing out in the water before our eyes. I can't wait!

Today's brand new episode is a full review of 2002's The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. We give it the modern-day, scene‑by‑scene treatment and ask the important questions like how is Legolas' hair so perfect?   Why is Frodo the most annoying main character in history?   Does Andy Serkis deserve an Oscar for this performance, and is The Two Towers actually better than Fellowship?  Join us! •0:00:00 - Introductions •0:02:30 - Memories of first viewing •0:06:00  - Pertinent movie details  •0:10:00  -  Critical and fan reviews •0:17:00 - Scene by scene breakdown  •1:42:00 - Modern day ratings —————————————————————— SPONSORS-  **TruDiagnostics- Our listeners can get 20% off at http://TruDiagnostic.com using code CONFUSED at checkout. **NordVPN-  Grab your EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal by going to http://nordvpn.com/breakfast to get a Huge Discount off your NordVPN Plan + 4 additional months on top! It's completely risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee! **BIG GROVE- Check out our beers of the episode here- http://BigGrove.com  **PROGRESSIVE- Visit http://progressive.com  **FABLETICS-  Get 80% off everything when you sign up as a VIP! Just head to http://Fabletics.com/confused  **LITTLE SLEEPIES-  If you're expecting or dressing little ones, check out Little Sleeps.  You can visit http://littlesleepies.com and use promo code GOODNIGHT for 10% off of your first order.  **WAYFAIR- Find furniture, decor, and essentials that fit your unique style and budget. http://Wayfair.com   —————————————————————— **Support us at http://patreon.com/confusedbreakfast for bonus weekly episodes, voting on upcoming movies, giving your modern-day ratings on our movies and much more. **Mail us something   The Confused Breakfast PO Box 10016 Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-9802 Special thanks to our executive producers- Josh Miller, Starling, Dylan Mick and NicMad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, Gollum, sure. Join The Man of the West as we continue our journey with Frodo and Sam, climbing the Stairs of Cirith Ungol. Are you sure there isn't an elevator somewhere, Gollum? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fr. Anthony talks with returning guest co-host Steve Christoforou, as Frodo recovers in the Last Homely House and meets with many old and new friends in the House of Elrond. Music attribution: Hidden Past and Celtic Impulse, both by Kevin MacLeod (www.incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Listen along as we continue our time through 1 Peter. Notes//Quotes: 1 Peter 1:13-26 - Chris F Reading Title: Exilic Exercise “The tidings were mostly sad and ominous: of gathering darkness, the wars of Men, and the flight of the Elves…And I warn you that peril is now both before you and behind you, and upon either side…. ‘But where shall I find courage?' asked Frodo. ‘That is what I chiefly need.' ‘Courage is found in unlikely places,' said Gildor. ‘Be of good hope!”  — J. R. R. Tolkien, The Fellowship Of The Rings “So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness.” (1 Peter 13-16, MSG) “If you want to judge how well a person understands Christianity, find out how much he makes of the thought of being God's child, and having God as his Father. If this is not the thought that prompts and controls his worship and prayers and his whole outlook on life, it means that he does not understand Christianity very well at all. For everything that Christ taught, everything that is distinctively Christian… is summed up in the knowledge of the Fatherhood of God. “Father” is the Christian name for God.”  — J. I. Packer, Knowing God “Christianity is completely and entirely and utterly hope — a looking forward and a forward direction; hope is not just an appendix. So Christianity inevitably means a new setting forth and transformation of the present…[The hoping person] can never come to terms with the inescapability of death or with the evil that continually breeds evil. For him the resurrection of Christ is not merely consolation in suffering; it is also the sign of God's protest against suffering. That is why whenever faith develops into hope it does not make people serene and placid; it makes them restless. It does not make them patient; it makes them impatient. Instead of being reconciled to existing reality they begin to suffer from it and to resist it.”  — Jürgen Moltmann, Experiences of God

The highs and lows of Croak Camp 2026 — chasing fallow bucks in Coolah, big moments, missed opportunities, plenty of laughs, and the latest NSW firearms registry updates.In this episode, Matt is joined by Dave and Frodo to relive the highs and lows of Croak Camp 2026, chasing croaking fallow bucks in Coolah with Northwest Outfitters. The boys share the full story from the trip — early mornings, roaring bucks, and the chaos that comes with hunting during one of the most exciting times of the season.Matt manages to get it done with a solid buck on the ground, while Dave has one of those hunts every hunter knows too well — multiple opportunities that just don't quite come together. Frodo rounds things out with a great result, taking a big pig and a doe, adding to an already action-packed trip.There's no shortage of hunting yarns, laughs, and honest reflections on what went right and what didn't. The episode captures the reality of camp — the wins, the misses, and the moments in between that make these trips what they are.We also touch on the latest updates from the NSW Firearms Registry, including applications for target shooting as a new genuine reason, and what that could mean moving forward for shooters.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you'd like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

* This is a previously recorded episode. Apologies for the tardiness of this episode*In this episode, Chantelle and Christian take on a big challenge, ranking their top 20 greatest actresses of all time. from classic Hollywood legends to modern powerhouses, they celebrate the performances, versatility, and cultural impact that define true greatness on screen.Expect passionate debates, surprising picks and plenty of love for the women who shaped cinema across generations. This episode is a tribute to the actresses whose talent and presence contine to inspire movie lovers everywhere.

The CinemaConvergencePress, influencers, and theater owners flocked to Las Vegas to be wined and dined by Hollywood Studios at this year's CinemaCon, where the event is beginning to feel more and more like a rival to San Diego Comic-Con in its golden years with the deluge of exciting announcements. With the sheer volume of news to cover, let's break down the biggest headlines by studio panel:DisneyKevin Feige confirmed that Avengers Endgame will rerelease in theaters ahead of Avengers Doomsday with added scenes. A first trailer for Avengers Doomsday was also shown to the crowd who finally got to see Downey's Doom in action. According to ComicBook.com, the trailer heavily featured Thor and included Shang-Chi, Gambit, and Steve Rogers.At the Disney Cinema Con presentation, new footage was shown for Toy Story 5 and the live action Moana. Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones were confirmed to voice the main characters of the upcoming animated feature Hexed. A trailer for The Dog Stars was also shown, a Ridley Scott sci fi epic that stars Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, and Josh Brolin.A final trailer for the Mandalorian and Grogu was released and the first 17 minutes of the film was shown to the crowd. SonySony kicked off the convention Monday night and, as expected, Spider-Man was front and center. Attendees got a first look at a scene from Spider-Man: Brand New Day along with two new promotional posters, but the bigger buzz came from footage of Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse — the concluding chapter of Miles Morales' trilogy — which hits theaters in June of next year.Sony announced an R-rated animated Bloodborne feature based on the FromSoftware video game at its CinemaCon panel.Sony has inked a first-look deal with Final Destination: Bloodlines duo Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein, who will direct a feature adaptation of Metal Gear Solid.Sony debuted the first trailer for Zach Cregger's Resident Evil reboot at CinemaCon; the film arrives this September.Sony revealed the first trailer for Insidious: Out of the Further, the next entry in the horror franchise, landing in theaters August 21.Warner Bros.Warner Bros. brought the heat on Tuesday with a seven-minute opening scene from Dune: Part Three, featuring a massive battle and a confrontation between Paul and Chani that reportedly floored the room.Game of Thrones: Aegon's Conquest was revealed as the working title for the upcoming Game of Thrones feature film during the Warner Bros. panel.Peter Safran debuted the first teaser for DC's Clayface at CinemaCon, showing Tom Rhys Harries in various stages of mutilation pre- and post-transformation before an unsettling bathtub reveal; the film hits theaters October 23.Safran also interviewed Supergirl's Craig Gillespie, Milly Alcock and Jason Momoa, while showcasing extended footage from the film.Concurrent with the DCU section of the panel, Man of Tomorrow news broke with Adria Arjona officially cast as Maxima and shooting to begin next week.The cast for Andy Serkis's The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum was officially unveiled at the Warner Bros. panel. Ian McKellen returns as Gandalf, Elijah Wood returns as Frodo, and Lee Pace reprises Thranduil, with Kate Winslet joining as Marigol, Leo Woodall as Halvard, and — most notably — Jamie Dornan stepping into the role of Aragorn.UniversalChristopher Nolan took the Universal stage Wednesday to premiere extended footage from The Odyssey, including a new shot of Matt Damon's Odysseus washing up on Calypso's beach — played by Charlize Theron — plus expanded Trojan Horse battle carnage; the IMAX-shot epic lands July 17.Steven Spielberg made his first-ever CinemaCon appearance to present Disclosure Day, receiving the MPA America 250 Award before confirming the Emily Blunt and Josh O'Connor thriller is an alien film, with the pair playing adults who were abducted as children.

A sermon preached by Rev. Ginger Gaines-Cirelli with Foundry UMC April 5,2026. “Ignite the Light” series. Easter Sunday. ​​​      ​       Text: Matthew 28:1-10​​​​​   I remember lying on the floor of our living room when I was a child. Not doing anything in particular—just stretched out on the blue shag carpet, near my dad's chair. And I remember noticing something I had never seen before. There was a beam of light coming through the window…and in it these tiny particles floating, moving, shimmering. Just… dancing. I didn't have a name for it.It didn't occur to me that it was dust, or dirt, or anything undesirable. It felt like magic. Like something had always been there—but I had never seen it before. And suddenly, because of the light, I could. The light didn't create it. It revealed it. It held it before my eyes. And I remember just lying there…watching. And I think about that sometimes—the way light reveals what we couldn't see before. The way it catches our attention… draws our eye… Think about how light breaks through clouds… through a canopy of trees… How light refracts through water to make rainbows. How light finds its way through windows—or even cracks in walls— sending a beam of light in which you can see dust dance. It's beautiful. It's delicate. And yet—it is so powerful. Because light finds its way in. It beckons. It invites. And if you follow it, it will show you more than you expected to see. I think about that moment in The Lord of the Rings when Galadriel gives Frodo a small vial of light and says: “May it be a light to you in dark places, when all other lights go out.” A fragile thing. A small thing. And yet—enough to guide him when everything else fails. And it seems to me that Easter—the reality of it, the story of it, the promise of it—is like that gift. But not small. Not contained. Easter is that kind of light magnified beyond measure. Because there are moments in our lives, in the life of a nation, in the life of the world when it feels like all the lights have gone out. When truth feels buried. When cruelty seems to spread like a virus. When violence feels pervasive. When fear and despair run in packs claiming more and more ground. And into that kind of world, Matthew tells us, the light breaks in. And when it does, it's not only beautiful. It's disruptive. The earth shakes. An angel descends. A stone is rolled away—not to let Jesus out—but to let the light in. What was sealed is opened. What was guarded is broken through. What was declared final is no longer final, not just for one life, but for life itself. Because Easter is not consolation after tragedy. It is God interrupting the apparent finality of death, empire, and violence—and revealing how empty their power really is. And Matthew tells the story in a way that makes it unmistakable. This is not a private miracle. This is a public reversal. The guards—sent by empire to secure the tomb—become like dead men. And the one who was dead—executed, sealed, silenced—is alive. Those who represent control collapse. The one who was crushed rises. The whole thing turns upside down. And if you've been paying attention, you realize—this is how it's been all along. Herod tries to kill the child. The child lives. The powerful condemn the innocent.Truth refuses to stay buried. Rome executes the Messiah. And God reverses the verdict. Because resurrection is God saying: The systems that declared this death final—were wrong. And then the disruption continues as God entrusts this breaking news to women, to those who were grieving and heartbroken, those whose testimony would not be trusted in the world. These women, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary become the first to hear, the first to see, the first to carry the truth that overturns the world.And they leave the tomb—Matthew says—with fear and great joy. Both. Because the world has not suddenly become safe. The empire is still in power. The cross is still fresh. The risk is still real. And yet something has happened that cannot be undone. And so they run. Not because they understand everything, but because they have seen enough light to start moving. And as they go, Jesus meets them. On the road. And he says, “Greetings”—a word that also means: Rejoice. Not as a command to feel something—but as an invitation to step further into what God has done. Because the news they are carrying is not just that the tomb is empty. It is that the light has broken in—and nothing will ever be the same. And Jesus meets them right there on the road to confirm it. To embody it. To send them on. Rejoice. Even now. Even here. And I think about how hard that may be for us to hear. Because the news we encounter most lights up our phones at all hours. It is breaking, urgent, relentless—and almost always…heavy. Another act of violence. Another abuse of power.Another reminder of how much is still broken. And it can start to feel like that is the truest story— like that's the world we live in—like nothing really changes. But what the women are carrying—running with, breathless—is a different kind of breaking news. Not news that traps us in fear. But news that breaks something open. That calls for rejoicing. Because something has broken. Death—which seemed final—is not. The seal—which seemed permanent—is not. The power—that seemed untouchable—is not. And when something like that shifts—when what we thought was final isn't—it creates a crack in the story we've been living inside. And once there's a crack—the light starts to get in. And what breaks in…is also what breaks us open. Because not all breaking is destruction. Some breaking is liberation. A seed has to break for new life to grow.Light has to break to become color. The sky has to break open for rain to fall.Sometimes what we call breaking is the beginning of mending. Because there are things in this world—and in us—that hold life captive. Cages we didn't build but learned how to live inside. Systems that confine and then convince us they are necessary. Stories that tell us this is just the way things are, this is just the way we are. This is just the way I am. But Easter reveals a different kind of power. Not domination. Not control. A power that gently beckons us toward life—and breaks open whatever keeps that life contained. The same light that draws us in… is the power that sets us free. The stone is rolled away. The seal is broken. The grip of death is broken. And when that happens—the cages don't hold the same way anymore. It's like something loosens—not all at once, but enough to change what's possible. The poet Hafiz puts it this way: The small man builds cages for everyone he knows. While the sage who has to duck his head when the moon is low, keeps dropping keys all night long for the beautiful, rowdy prisoners. And that's what resurrection feels like. Not everything suddenly fixed—but keys appearing. Openings where there were none. A loosening of what we thought would hold forever. Because the one they thought they had broken and banished from this world—breaks in. Not untouched. Not unmarked. But bearing the wounds. Carrying the scars and yet somehow making all things whole. Because God does not erase brokenness. God transfigures it. The light doesn't avoid the cracks. It comes through them. Like that beam of light in a living room long ago finding its way in…holding something before our eyes that we didn't even know was there. And this—this is the breaking news: The crucified one is alive. And those sent to guard the tomb are like dead men. The verdict has been reversed. Death has lost its claim. Empire has lost its certainty. Violence has lost its final word. And life—deeper than death—is rising. // And that means whatever feels sealed is not final. Whatever feels broken is not beyond mending. Whatever feels dark is not beyond the reach of light. Because Easter is the day God in Christ breaks the power of canceled sin and sets the prisoner free… breaks the power of death and cruelty… breaks the lie that this is just the way things have to be… and breaks into confusion and fear with hope and solidarity. Easter is the day the light of Christ began to beckon us— to see what—before—we could not see… and to live like it's real. // Like the stone has already been rolled away. Like the seal has already been broken. Like the cages don't hold the same way anymore. Like even now—even here—the light is finding its way in. Like even the smallest beam can change what we see. Like… even the dust… can begin to dance. And the light— still— breaks in.

Your hosts are otherwise occupied with mundane life BS, so please enjoy this classic episode from May 13, 2024. Original show notes below:Here at TSHE Studios y'all know we LOVE movies. But what if we told you sometimes, we actually hate movies. On today's episode we'll tell you about the times we came this close to walking out/turning off. We're not trying to be haters, but Frodo is a whiny little baby! In other news, Hillary is just trying to get through May, and Meredith is trying to contain the kittens. Neither of them are very successful. Also, we somehow veer our way into tattoo talk, and Hillary details how she narrowly escaped a tattoo she would undoubtedly regret now.TSHE RecommendsWayne's WorldConnect with the show!This is your show, too. Feel free to drop us a line, send us a voice memo, or fax us a butt to let us know what you think.Facebook group: This Show Has EverythingFax Bobby Your Butt: 617-354-8513 Feedback form: www.throwyourphone.com Email: tsheshow@gmail.comAOL Keyword: TSHE

Join The Man of the West as we wrap up our four-episode look at the friendship of Frodo and Sam, from certain death on the slopes of Mount Doom, to their farewell at the Grey Havens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the key to unlocking your deepest self could be found in the presence of horses? In this episode, Chloe Elgar, a 3/5 Emotional Manifestor and intuitive guide, shares the transformative healing work she does with her herd of horses at her Austin ranch. Chloe explains how horse medicine isn't about riding or traditional therapy, but rather about connecting with the horses' energy to regulate and balance your own. Through her unique approach, Chloe guides others in discovering profound emotional shifts and deeper self-awareness. Nicole opens up about her personal experiences with Chloe's horse medicine sessions, reflecting on the powerful way these animals act as non-judgmental mirrors, helping her confront and release energy she didn't even know she was holding onto. They also cover how horses can help us become more present and attuned to our bodies, showing us how to release limiting beliefs and energetically reset. Chloe shares the special qualities of each horse in her herd, from the calm wisdom of Frodo to the grounding presence of Sahara, each bringing their own healing medicine. If you've ever felt like something's missing in your personal healing journey or have been curious about how animals can support your growth, this episode is for you.  Listen now!   Learn more about your Human Design and get your full chart for free at https://www.nicolelaino.com/chart   We have a NEW HD membership community where you get ALL of our monthly HD Masterclasses included and so much more!! It is all about creating alignment, action, and consistency in your business with Human Design. To join The HD Authority Lab at the special Founding Member rate, click the link here: http://nicolelaino.com/lab  or DM Nicole "Lab" on Instagram for info.   To download the Secret Podcast on how to Build & Scale Your Business with Human Design, click here: nicolelaino.com/secretpodcast  Connect with Chloe Elgar: - Visit her website at www.channeledbychloe.com  - Follow Chloe Elgar on Instagram www.instagram.com/channeledbychloe/ Be sure to visit nicolelaino.com/podcastlinks for all of the current links to events, freebies, and more! If you enjoyed this week's episode, I'd so appreciate you doing a few things for me:  Please subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! Rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts.  Tag me @nicolelainoofficial on your IG stories with a story of you listening to the podcast and I'll make sure to share your post!  Interested in learning more about working with me? Click here to learn more about how we can work together. 

Join The Man of the West as the friendship of Frodo and Sam grows stronger even in the most challenging circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Day 2831 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – J R R Tolkien's Theological Imagination: Rebellion, Redemption, and the Divine Pattern Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2831 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2831 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled:  J R R Tolkien's Theological Imagination: Rebellion, Redemption, and the Divine Pattern. J R R  Tolkien believed storytelling was a sacred act. As a devout Catholic, his fiction was shaped not by overt allegory but by deep theological truths. Through the concept of subcreation, Tolkien affirmed that humans, made in the image of the Creator, have the capacity to craft secondary worlds that echo divine realities. While The Lord of the Rings is not an allegory, its themes align powerfully with Christian theology and the Divine Council Worldview (DCWV), a framework in Scripture that speaks of God ruling among other spiritual beings and assigning nations to them after Babel. The first segment is: The Powers and Principalities of Arda. Tolkien's legendarium includes a clear divine hierarchy. At the top is Eru Ilúvatar, the One, creator of all. He is the source of the Ainulindalë-the- the Music of the Ainur-through which the world is first imagined. Even when Melkor introduces discord into the harmony, seeking to dominate the music with his own themes, Eru responds not with destruction but with deeper orchestration. He tells Melkor that all the discord he weaves will only serve to make the final symphony more profound. Nothing, not even rebellion, lies outside Eru's ultimate sovereignty. This reflects a vision of God's authority that is both supreme and redemptive, where even the schemes of the wicked are ultimately turned to the fulfillment of divine purpose. Below Ilúvatar are the Ainur, powerful spiritual beings created before the shaping of the world. Among them, the Valar function as guardian spirits of Arda, similar in structure to the Divine Council of Psalm 82. The Maiar, lesser but still mighty beings, assist the Valar. Gandalf and Sauron both belong to this order. Just as in Divine Council Worldview, where God delegates spiritual authority to lesser elohim, Tolkien's mythos reflects a structure where divine beings are given spheres of responsibility. Yet, like in Scripture, rebellion corrupts this order, setting the stage for cosmic conflict. In the end, those spirits who persist in rebellion are not merely restrained but ultimately removed forever from the renewed creation. Their fate reflects the biblical destiny of the fallen sons of God, whose judgment ensures that the restored order will no longer be corrupted by their presence. The second segment is: Melkor, Sauron, and the Corruption of Divine Authority Melkor, later known as Morgoth, the mightiest of the Ainur, mirrors the rebel gods in biblical theology. His pride leads him to seek domination rather than stewardship. Morgoth's rebellion reflects the cosmic insurrection of Psalm 82 and Isaiah 14, spiritual beings grasping for power they were never meant to wield. Sauron, his chief lieutenant, becomes a second-tier deceiver who continues Morgoth's dark legacy. Like the sons of God in Genesis 6 and Deuteronomy 32, Sauron imposes false worship and enslaves others, manipulating through fear and domination. The rings of power function almost like tokens of delegated but twisted authority, tools meant for order, turned toward control. The third segment is: Sacred Geography and Territorial Spirits Middle-earth is shaped by geography charged with meaning. From the spiritual corruption of Mordor to the divine echoes of Lothlórien and the exile of Númenor, Tolkien paints a world where places are more than political. They are spiritual battlegrounds. This resonates with the DCWV understanding of cosmic geography, the biblical idea that certain regions are under the influence of rebellious divine beings. Tolkien's world shows that the land itself can groan under the weight of spiritual oppression or be hallowed by divine presence. The Fourth Segment is: Free Will, Providence, and the Role of Mortals Tolkien's theology insists that free will matters, even in a world shaped by fate. This mirrors the DCWV framework in which God's imagers, both divine and human, are granted real choice. The fall of Melkor and Sauron is not deterministic, nor is Frodo's endurance guaranteed. Instead, history is a tapestry of choices woven into divine purposes. Even Gollum, an unlikely figure, plays a providential role through his disobedience. As Elrond says, “Even the very wise cannot see all ends.” God remains sovereign in Tolkien's world, but human (and hobbit) agency is honored. At the same time, Tolkien also shows that Ilúvatar does not remain distant. When free will threatens to unravel the entire order of creation-such as with the rebellion of Númenor-Eru steps in directly. That rebellion was not born in a vacuum. It was Sauron, functioning as a kind of Satan figure, who seduced the Númenóreans with promises of godhood, twisting their fear of death into a desire for domination. Under his influence, they turned against the Valar and Ilúvatar himself. In response, Ilúvatar reshapes the world, removes Valinor from its physical reach, and ensures the continuation of his plan. Divine intervention is rare, but never absent, reflecting a theology where human freedom is real, yet ultimately guided by a higher will. The fifth segment is: Christ Figures and Divine Reversal Tolkien avoids a single Christ figure, but the roles of prophet, priest, and king are reflected across characters. Gandalf, as a Maia, is sent back as a resurrected figure who guides and speaks truth. Frodo, the suffering servant, bears the burden of evil though it scars him permanently. Aragorn, the hidden king, returns to heal and rule with justice. Their combined roles reflect a mosaic of messianic themes, aligned with DCWV's understanding that God's rule is ultimately restored through His chosen representative. The sixth Segment is: The Redemption of the Noldor One of the most profound theological arcs in Tolkien's legendarium is the redemption of the Noldor. These High Elves, once dwellers in the light of Valinor, chose rebellion. Under Fëanor, they defied the Valar, left the Blessed Realm without permission, and pursued Morgoth in pride and vengeance. Their exile into Middle-earth was a direct consequence of their disobedience, and their long suffering across the First, Second, and Third Ages reflects the cost of that choice. And yet, by the time of The Lord of the Rings, the story shifts. Elrond, Galadriel, and others of Noldorin descent are no longer defined by rebellion but by wisdom, sacrifice, and faithful stewardship. Galadriel, who once sought dominion and glory, now resists the temptation of the One Ring. Elrond becomes a healer, counselor, and protector. Their final return to Valinor is not a defeat or escape, but a homecoming long delayed. It is the restoration of exiles whose hearts have been refined by ages of sorrow and service. This echoes the biblical pattern of return from exile, of forgiveness extended to those who wandered far but endured. Their story is not one of perfection, but of transformation. In the end, the Noldor who return do so not in pride, but in humility. And Valinor, far from rejecting them, welcomes them home. In Conclusion Tolkien didn't write sermons, but he did what theology often fails to do. He made us feel the weight of glory, the darkness of evil, and the staggering grace of redemption. His myth tells the same cosmic story as Scripture: creation, rebellion, judgment, mercy, and restoration. By embedding DCWV themes into his secondary world, Tolkien baptized the imagination and helped countless readers glimpse the true story beneath all stories. For further study, consider these Discussion Questions How does Tolkien's portrayal of Eru Ilúvatar compare to the biblical view of God's sovereignty, especially in response to rebellion? In what ways does the story of the Noldor reflect biblical themes of exile, refinement, and return? How does Tolkien depict the relationship between free will and divine providence across different characters and events? What parallels can be drawn between Sauron's temptation of Númenor and the biblical role of Satan in stirring rebellion? How does Tolkien's treatment of spiritual rebellion and ultimate judgment align with the destiny of fallen divine beings in Scripture? Join us next Theology Thursday to learn Fencing the Torah: When Guardrails Become a Cage If you found this podcast insightful, please subscribe and leave us a review, then...

Elijah Wood joins The Rolling Stone Studio with Brian Hiatt at SXSW to talk about stepping into chaos for Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, where he plays a devil's advocate with a possibly immortal edge. He breaks down how the sequel picks up seamlessly from the original, what it took to survive a set drenched in fake blood, and why this role let him lean into something darker and more playful. Elsewhere, Wood reflects on the very real possibility of returning as Frodo in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, along with memories from the original films, the story behind his Elvish tattoo, and the unexpected treasures in his record collection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No, really, it's just a mild cold… oh, the text? That's a different story. Join The Man of the West as we follow Frodo and Sam's miserable itinerary through the Dagorlad and the wastes before the Black Gate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Man of the West as we turn our 2-part look at Frodo and Sam's friendship into four episodes instead: today, from Parth Galen to Cirith Ungol. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Colbert and his son Peter McGee are co-writing a new Lord of the Rings film for Warner Bros., tapping into Tolkien chapters dropped from the original trilogy. Director Peter Jackson and screenwriter Philippa Boyens are on board, with the story titled Shadows of the Past set 14 years after Frodo’s departure, following Sam, Merry, and Pippin as they revisit earlier adventures, while Sam’s daughter uncovers a hidden secret. California lawmakers have officially renamed César Chávez Day to “Farmworkers Day”, following explosive New York Times allegations that the late labor icon sexually abused minors. Gov. Gavin Newsom quickly signed the bipartisan legislation to recenter the holiday on farmworkers rather than an individual, as states and cities nationwide begin removing Chávez’s name from schools and public spaces in response. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We begin an all-new thing for Fridays, as we study friendships in Middle-earth, starting with perhaps the best-known example with Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.(00:00) A Chapter Built Around a Single Decision(02:00) Why the Black Gate Must Be Impossible to Enter(05:00) Mordor as a Living Landscape of Evil(08:00) Frodo’s Resolve and the Stakes of the Quest(11:00) Writing Into Uncertainty and Finding the Way Forward(13:30) Trust, Suspicion, and Gollum’s Divided Nature(17:00) The Hidden Path and Foreshadowing What Lies Ahead(21:00) Tension, Stillness, and Delaying the Decision(26:00) Sam’s Perspective and the Power of Small Hope(29:00) Choosing to Trust Gollum and Moving ForwardFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

America's allies aren't lining up to join the war against Iran, Stephen shares his enthusiasm for the MarineTraffic app, and President Trump is threatening to “take” the country of Cuba. Actor Elijah Wood won't confirm or deny rumors that he's set to play Frodo again in an upcoming project, and shares that he and his Middle Earth cast-mates keep in touch via a long-running text chain. See “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” in theaters this Friday.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we explore the rich themes, memorable characters, and powerful symbolism of J.R.R. Tolkien's iconic trilogy. Whether you're a dedicated fan or new to Middle-earth, these insights will deepen your appreciation and inspire your own journey of purpose and resilience.Key Topics:Overview of the setting in Middle-earth and the significance of the final chapterMain characters: Frodo, Sam, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Gollum, and villains like Sauron and DenethorThemes of good versus evil, hope, sacrifice, and identityThe symbolism of the ring, White Tree of Gondor, eagles, and morePersonal reflections on how the story's lesson on purpose, hope, and identity apply to lifeThe importance of perseverance, humility, and supporting rolesQuotes that capture the essence of heroism, hope, and resilienceRemember, the journey through Middle-earth is much like our own life: filled with challenges, growth, and hope. Embrace your purpose and step into your true identity—just like Aragorn, Frodo, and Sam.

What does it mean to give yourself fully to something — a marriage, a calling, a city, a cause — and still make peace with the fact that you won't get everything you hoped for? In this episode of The Upwards Podcast, host John Terrill sits down with professor, author, and longtime friend Steve Garber for a wide-ranging conversation about vocation, faithfulness in a particular place over time, and the trap of dualism.Drawing on literature, theology, biography, and lived experience, Steve invites listeners into the central question of his new book, Hints of Hope: Essays on Making Peace with the Proximate - Is it worth doing something that matters, even when you don't get everything you hoped for?WHAT YOU'LL LEARN00:00 — Introduction: Steve Garber and the questions that have shaped his life and writing03:26 — Steve's father, plant pathology, and the question of germination: how a scientist's work became a metaphor for vocation07:52 — Dropping out of college, living in communes, and what those years taught Steve about the nature of learning11:40 — “Common grace for the common good”: why a theology of common grace matters for how we work in the world16:40 — “Vocation is integral, not incidental”: what it means to live seamlessly, without dualism17:59 — Can you know the world and still love it? Making peace with the proximate: the essay that became a life philosophy21:31 — Who is this book written for? How Steve's audience has grown from university students to the whole world28:39 — Telos and praxis: the fundamental question of the book — is it worth doing something that matters if you don't get everything you hoped for?33:19 — Already but not yet: Tolkien, Frodo, and what the last pages of The Return of the King taught Steve in his 60s that he missed at 2036:36 — The Clapham Community, Wendell Berry, and why commitment to a people and a place matters41:26 — NT Wright on joy and sorrow woven into the fabric of a life44:45 — The perennial question: What does it mean to be human in 2026?49:23 — What Steve may write next: pedagogy and learning “over the shoulder and through the heart”ABOUT STEVE GARBERSteven Garber was professor of marketplace theology and leadership at Regent College, Vancouver, and the principal of The Washington Institute for Faith, Vocation & Culture. A consultant to foundations, corporations, and schools, he is a teacher of many people in many places. His books include Visions of Vocation and The Fabric of Faithfulness, and he is a contributor to the books Faith Goes to Work: Reflections from the Marketplace and Get Up Off Your Knees: Preaching the U2 Catalogue.BOOKS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEHints of Hope: Essays on Making Peace with the Proximate by Steve Garber (Paraclete Press, 2026)The Fabric of Faithfulness: Weaving Together Belief and Behavior by Steve Garber (IVP, 1996; revised ed. 2007)Visions of Vocation: Common Grace for the Common Good by Steve Garber (IVP, 2014)The Lord of the Rings (The Return of the King) by J.R.R. Tolkien (George Allen & Unwin, 1955)The Moviegoer by Walker Percy (Knopf, 1961)Lost in the Cosmos: The Last Self-Help Book by Walker Percy (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1983)The Homeless Mind: Modernization and Consciousness bCONNECT WITH USSubscribe to The Upwards Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and visit slbf.org/studio to learn more about our work at the intersection of faith, the academy, and the marketplace.This episode was created by the SLBF STUDIO at Upper House.Produced by Daniel Johnson and Dave ConourEdited by Dave Conour

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.(00:00) Introducing the Passage of the Marshes(02:20) The Structure of the Chapter and Its Locations(04:30) Gollum as Guide and Contradictory Character(08:40) Food, Lembas, and Gollum’s Drama(14:00) Frodo and Sam’s Changing Relationship(17:00) Entering the Dead Marshes(22:30) The Atmosphere and Worldbuilding of the Marshes(27:30) The Dead Faces Beneath the Water(31:10) The Ringwraith’s Overflight and Growing Fear(37:10) Gollum’s Inner Debate and the Road to MordorFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

It's very rare for me to demand that the readers of my #AmReading substack pre-order something. And the bar to be my “Just One Book” is high. But here we go: The book is The Fountain—debut speculative fiction from Casey Scieszka—and you'll want to read it, but even more, you'll want to hear us talk about what it took to pull this big, beautiful novel from her Tuck-Everlasting-loving soul. And here's the question her agent asked her that is now stuck on a post-it on my computer and may be my next tattoo: How can you reveal these things in action?Casey is reading:Open Throat by Henry Hoke (“It's funny and deeply tender and unlike anything I've ever read.”Follow Casey on Instagram and Substack: Spruceton Inn.Transcript Below!EPISODE TRANSCRIPTKJ Dell'AntoniaThis is the Hashtag AmWriting Podcast, the place where we help you play big in your writing life, love the process, and finish what matters. I am KJ Dell'Antonia, and today we're talking with Casey Scieszka. And I meant to ask Casey how to pronounce her last name before we started. How'd I do?Casey ScieszkaI think you did great. Especially over in Poland, we say “SHESH-kah” over here, but I've been corrected many times. I think it's supposed to be more like what you said. So… bravo!KJ Dell'AntoniaOkay… SHESH-skah… SHESH-kah… all right, off we go. Y'all, you're going to want to know how to spell it, because you're going to want to order Casey's debut novel, The Fountain, and it is spelled S-C-I-E-S-Z-K-A. But to carry on with my introduction, Casey is a ridiculously well-traveled innkeeper in upstate New York, and we are just going to let that fantasy sit there for a minute without talking about the amount of snow she's going to be shoveling tomorrow, because we're recording this in January and are talking about the fact that I can see her and she is wearing a full-on puffer. So… romance, Hallmark, innkeeper, debut novel—all the things—and also a puffer and snow shovels and pipes and, yeah. You will hear this episode just as Casey's first book, The Fountain,, comes out, and that is what we're here to talk about, because I happened to have gotten an advanced copy of it, and I happen to actually have read it—which does not always happen—and even more relevantly, loved it. Therefore, here we are. And Casey, welcome to Hashtag AmWriting.Casey ScieszkaThank you so much. I am so thrilled. I'm like really just beyond that you enjoyed it so much.KJ Dell'AntoniaAh, I'm so—I'm, I really did. I will be encouraging everyone to pick it up. It's mind-boggling that it's not… and it is your debut. So I'm going to go ahead and—is it, is it really? Like, I mean, I know it's your debut, but like, is it the first book you've written? Oh no, you've, you've got a kind of a memoirs situation out, right?Casey ScieszkaI wrote like a young adult travelogue with my now husband that he illustrated about when we lived like in China and West Africa and wound up literally out in Timbuktu. So I had some experience that way, but that was nonfiction and for a totally different audience. All that said, this novel is my first published one, but you better believe I have a bin in the drawer.KJ Dell'AntoniaThat's what I meant.Casey ScieszkaDrawer. (laughing)KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah. Yeah. So, The Fountain, is—just as briefly as possible—it's the story of an immortal woman who really would like to die, for excellent reasons, because immortality is a weight that is really, really heavy, and you convey that beautifully and wonderfully in this book. And so I want to just start right off—I maybe should let you describe the book—and then I'll just warn you that my next question is going to be, “Man, how did you have the guts to swing for the fences like this?”Casey ScieszkaWell, I think it probably began when I read Natalie Babbitt's Tuck Everlasting as a fifth grader in English class, which is about a family that—or a little girl who comes across a magical spring that an immortal family is guarding, and then she has to decide, ultimately, throughout the book, what she's going to do with this information and this knowledge while other people are hunting it down as well. And those questions just haunted and delighted me for decades, and I kept returning to them, and at some point I was working on a novel, had a whole manuscript going, was deeply frustrated, and I started a little something on the side where I was like, this will just be a short story. We'll see where this goes. This is nothing, and I think, because… I don't know, maybe you've experienced this before too, where if you're not looking it directly in the eye, sometimes it can just take off, and it all of a sudden had a life of its own. Essentially, this grown-up version of Tuck Everlasting, where it's about a woman who has come back to her small hometown in the Catskill Mountains, where she was born in the 1800s, 214 years later, to figure out what did this to her so she can reverse it and finally be released.KJ Dell'AntoniaWow, you really have the… the short pitch. What's your book about? Down! Congratulations! That's a tough one. Yeah, you, you nailed it. That is what it is about. And I will say that it took—one of the things that I loved about it, and that I like in a book—is that not only was I not sure at some points what the protagonist wanted for herself, I was not sure what I wanted for her. All I knew was that I wanted “something” for her. And that makes for a really interesting reading experience. Because normally, you know, you find yourself sitting there going, well, just, you know, just tell the person, or just, you know, kiss them or accept your reality, or you'd normally—you know what you want—like, take the ring, Frodo, or whatever. Or don't take the ring, Frodo. And now there's no book. But, and in this one, we didn't. How hard was—was that for you to write—sort of, I don't know… did you know what you wanted the protagonist—or what you wanted the reader to want for her? Or…?Casey ScieszkaYes and no.KJ Dell'AntoniaHow did you feel about that?Casey ScieszkaRight. Yes and no, and yes and no. I think when you're writing, ultimately, later on in draft, you have to be very clear about what your character wants. But in the early process, I had no idea. The whole thing, like I said, began as a short story, and that's really just the first chapter or two, and then I was essentially hunting with her. When I was writing that first draft, I was like, what are we looking for? What has happened in the past 200 years in your life that would make you feel one way or another? And then every time I had a different little angel or devil on my shoulder, whatever you will, who was the—well, what about this point of view? What if? Wouldn't this type of—wouldn't someone say, well, living forever would be amazing, because you could share that type of science with other people, and you could, you know, have these wonderful medical advances or, you know, things like that? I could then have other characters essentially embody those, those other points of view as well. Although, I'm really glad that you say that in your reading experience, you still weren't quite sure what she wanted, because I definitely didn't want, you know—I mean, no, no author wants characters to just be symbols for points of view.KJ Dell'AntoniaOh yeah, no, absolutely not. And I should say that I know that she wants to reverse this. That's never in question. But this sort of—there—you're always aware of the question of what does she really want? Because that's kind of only part of it to want…Casey ScieszkaRight.KJ Dell'AntoniaAn end to this pain, but, but why and what other alternatives there are. And then, of course, I just—I did not know how you were going to end it. I could not imagine how you were going to land that plane. It must have been a tough one. Did you always know where you were going? We will not in any way spoil this.Casey ScieszkaRight. No spoilers.KJ Dell'AntoniaNo, no spoilers.Casey ScieszkaI'd say that about halfway through my first draft, I just saw the ending. I was like, “Oh, this is…”KJ Dell'AntoniaThat's amazing.Casey ScieszkaThis is like that very last moment. I was like, this is where I need to get. And those handful of chapters before the penultimate one, whoa, boy, those were the ones that are like I wrote, like seven different books, you know?KJ Dell'AntoniaOh yeah.Casey ScieszkaCompletely different versions to actually get there.KJ Dell'AntoniaSo what was your… what's your hope for the reader experience of this book? Besides, you know vast entertainment and pressing it into the hands of their friends.Casey ScieszkaRight. Naturally.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah…Casey ScieszkaBeyond that…KJ Dell'AntoniaWe love that.Casey ScieszkaUm, I mean, I love books that essentially look at what it means to be human and what makes a life worth living. And those are the type of questions that I hope someone would then linger on in their own life after putting down the book. Even in between chapters, you know? That you would be able to reflect on the choices that each character is making and think, like, oh, I would do this. I wouldn't do that. Or, you know, to kind of just bring that back into your own life that way. Because… I don't know. Time is perspective, like ever—what is—what does it mean to live forever? What is a long life? Is it? You know, when you're when you're little, a summer lasts an eternity. I guess what I'm saying is like our perspective of time is always bendy, and that was an interesting challenge in trying to write a 214 year old woman, where it was very tempting to just turn her into a superhero, where I'd be like, “Oh, well, she'd know 10 language.”KJ Dell'AntoniaShe'd know things, yeah.Casey ScieszkaAnd she'd be like, amazing at all these things. And I had to be like, Casey, you have a lot of time on your hands as well. Like, you're, you know, you're 40 years old. And do you know 10 languages? Do you know five languages? Like, what are, like what are we talking about here?KJ Dell'AntoniaOn that ratio you should at least know two. (laughing) Uh, maybe three. If we're going to say 200 is 10… you know you got, yeah, you should have at least two.Casey ScieszkaExactly. So just kind of examining, like, why would I—why would I have expectation, different expectations for someone simply because they've lived longer, and, you know, those types of things?KJ Dell'AntoniaSo you mentioned that you had a bunch of books in a drawer. So what's bigger about this project than maybe the thing that you put aside to focus on it? Is it bigger?Casey ScieszkaI don't know if it's bigger. I think I just had, I had better tools in my toolbox at this point. Like I might return to that other one, but I didn't have the full heart of the question I was getting at there. I think I had more of a premise, or something like that. Whereas this one, when I was writing, I felt like the problem was I had own—like in the writing was like I had too much meat, I had so many questions, I had so much I was wrestling with. And then it also really helped that, I mean, it's, its set in a small town in the Catskills, and, spoiler alert, that's the type of place that I now live.KJ Dell'AntoniaRight.Casey ScieszkaAnd knew. People always tell you like, write what you know. I am, I am not, secretly, 214 years old. I know you can't see me on camera, guys.Multiple Speakers(both laughing)Casey ScieszkaMy skin's not that great for a… you know? But, but I do know what small-town life is in the Catskills. I do—there are some characters who are opening up a business. I know what it's like to open a business. Like, it was really fun for me. I felt like I had this endless well of inspiration to keep pulling from that way. And that was something I couldn't have written 10 years before. You know?KJ Dell'AntoniaYou also handled the depth of the questions that you're dealing with remarkably tightly. Did you have to clear away a lot of like… asking for a friend…(laughing). Did you have to clear away a lot of mulling over these questions by people or? I guess what I'm getting at is these are really deep and big questions, like you said, but I don't feel—you did not Atlas Shrugged these. You know, there's not like a 20-page dissertation by John Galt in the middle of it. How hard was it to keep that from happening? Or did it come a little more easily for you?Casey ScieszkaI think, nothing, nothing, none of it comes easily. We know this.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah.Casey ScieszkaI mean, sometimes you reach the flow state, you know? And it is funny to even think back on these things, because I have a, like, a willful blindness, almost in the same way that, like, I have given birth to two children, and, like, I can't believe I did it a second time, you know? But it's by, you know, it's by design, some—perhaps similar with writing. Once you know how the sausage is made, sometimes it can be hard to do again. But anyway, all of this is to go back and actually answer your question. I was very wary of doing the… this is how I feel about something info dump. And one of the things that my agent as an editor has been helpful with from early drafts was, how can you reveal these things in action? So anytime I was tempted to just start explaining things, I was like, Casey, is this happening in action? Like, is this a character actually finding something out? Like from another character in a natural way. So that…KJ Dell'AntoniaThat's a great question.Casey ScieszkaRight. That really, that really helped me. And then also sometimes with the writing I did, just let myself write a whole bunch, you know, because sometimes, especially if you know it's the beginning of your writing day, maybe it's, it's that equivalent of the throat clearing—you're just or the dog who's doing circles before they sit down, like you're, you're getting around to the thing that you actually want to say. And then when you re read it, you're like, “Oh, well, those first four paragraphs can go, and here's where I actually start to say…”KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah, here's what i meant to say.Casey ScieszkaYeah. Yeah.KJ Dell'AntoniaTake this. Put it up at the front— delayed all this. Yeah. No. I get it. So how long did this take you?Casey ScieszkaWell, I started the short story in 2021 and then it comes out now. I will say we had, like; everything was in the can, if you will, at least, like a year and a half ago, just kind of waiting for this springtime pub date. But, yeah, it's a journey. That's a—I feel, you know, like another thing you don't want to hear when you're like, 25 and are like, I'm going to write a book, and you hear an interview with someone who's like, it took me 10 years, and I was like, my god. And I'm like, well, girl.KJ Dell'AntoniaI can do it faster than that.Casey ScieszkaThis one is five years. But…KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah, yeah, no, it takes, it takes a long time, and it's hard, and it takes a lot of painful thinking, and yeah, all of those things are true. So now, now that you can look back at this project with hopefully a little bit of distance, and you're about to be talking about it a lot, I suspect. What do you love most about it?Casey ScieszkaOoh. I love most that these characters feel so real to me still that I sometimes catch myself wondering, like, what they're doing. You know?KJ Dell'AntoniaThat's amazing.Casey ScieszkaLike I lived with them, and I just, I'm so excited that I actually, like made—was able to make that for, you know, not just myself, though, that I surely entertained myself in the process. But it is such a humbling dream that this story is now existing in other people's brains, that these are characters who have felt real to other people as well.KJ Dell'AntoniaWhat, as you look back, what would you say was the hardest part of the process?Casey ScieszkaAside from all of the waiting?!KJ Dell'AntoniaAll of it! Aside from all of it.Casey ScieszkaWhich felt like…KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah I was going to say aside from…Casey ScieszkaIt felt eternal.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah. Yeah.Multiple Speakers(both laughing)Casey ScieszkaI think the very hardest part is early on, when you don't know—well, the earliest, earliest is delightful, because you're in just your little creative cocoon, and you're having these wonderful ideas, and you don't have to solve any of the plot problems yet, or things like that. You know, you're just like being your own little creative genius for yourself. But then it's I feel like that, that first real revision phase when you don't know fully if this is actually going to become a book where you're—and time, you know, to talk about time again, is precious, like I, you know, I run this other hotel. It's open half the year. But when I began it, it was open seven days a week, all year long; I had two children under the age of four at the time. Like, time was precious. I was writing during nap time, like things were being sacrificed in order for me to do this. And it is. It just feels audacious and possibly insane to be doing it when you're in it, and when you're on the other side, you're like, oh, but the road was always pointing here, and you just, you just don't know that when you're in it.KJ Dell'AntoniaNo.Casey ScieszkaYeah.KJ Dell'AntoniaYou could easily have, really think, you know, you could easily still be sitting on this going, well, I'm going to finish this…Casey ScieszkaExactly. And, you know…KJ Dell'AntoniaWhen the kids are… you know… or whatever.Casey ScieszkaYeah, exactly I have these other, you know, unfinished or manuscripts that haven't seen the light of day. But, at this point, I tell myself, and I 99.9999% believe it that those were necessary to write in order to write this.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah, I sure hope so.Multiple Speakers(both laughing)Casey ScieszkaThere's just that other point 0.0001 that's like—KJ Dell'AntoniaWhat?!Casey ScieszkaYeah, it's like, no, no, it really was necessary.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah, no, you have to. You have to do it. Well, I hate to be, you know, not trying to raise the bar here, but, but what is next after, you know, a topic like this and a big book like, like this? Do you know yet? Are you, are you thinking about it? Where are you in your process?Casey ScieszkaI have been working on something else which is fun. And I definitely have, like, you know, while as much as I know how, how wild it is with how the sausage is made and what I'm, you know, the many revisions and things I'm looking down the barrel at, I also have another level of excitement, because I know, like, wow, I have an agent this time who's actually excited to read it, and I have a working relationship with an editor. Like, I'm trying to appreciate that…KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah, because it's what you wanted before.Casey ScieszkaAnd it can be so easy to just, you know, slip back into the like; you know, I don't know, the chaos feelings. But, I will say, I'm not going to say much about the project, other than historically, for everything I've ever been drawn to, and including stuff I love to read. I always love when character, when there's a character who knows like way too much or way too little, like in their situation.KJ Dell'AntoniaThat's a very like tempting pitch without having anything you'd like to put your fingers in.Casey ScieszkaWithout…KJ Dell'AntoniaThat's good. That's good, that's clever.Casey ScieszkaI told you nothing.KJ Dell'AntoniaYou told me nothing, and yet I'm like, ooh yeah, that does sound… that does sound interesting. Well, I as I've as I've said I wholeheartedly enjoyed this. It was twisty. You had me thinking things that were not what was so at many, many points of the book.Casey ScieszkaI love to hear this. Love to hear.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah and when we are off, off recording, I'll tell you some of them, because that is always kind of fun. I really feel like this book is such an achievement. For someone who's just getting started, it's great. I can't wait to see what you do next. And I guess, on that note, what's something you have read recently where you also felt like the writer was, was really big, really playing big. Is there anything that you would like to press on into people's hands the way I want to press The Fountain, into their hands?Casey ScieszkaI've loved this. Thank you again. One book I keep pressing into many people's hands is Open Throat by Henry Hoke.KJ Dell'AntoniaOkay.Casey ScieszkaIt's very slim. You can read it in like a day, although I recommend taking a little bit longer, because you'll want to enjoy it. It is told from the point of view of a mountain lion who lives under the Hollywood sign.KJ Dell'AntoniaOh, I—I think I've heard the description, even if I don't remember the—okay.Casey ScieszkaIt's so funny and so deeply tender, like and just unlike anything I've read recently, and I just really felt like, like he was swinging for the fences with this, like it's from the point of view of an animal, which should be ridiculous, but after…KJ Dell'AntoniaAnd not just an animal, but an animal that lives under the Hollywood sign.Casey ScieszkaYeah, like that's a mountain lion who's—it open up or he's overhearing like you know hikers discussing therapist, you know? It's just, it's so silly, but it's also so deep and kind of truly experimental, but still so accessible and I just feel like it's the type of thing that I don't know. Maybe when he sat down to write it, he was like, this, someone's going to tell me, I'm nuts, but I just connected with it so much.KJ Dell'AntoniaI…yeah. Alright I love that then, and that is a great response to the question, because that really is somebody else swinging for the fences, and that's what we're just trying to talk about here for everyone. So where? Well, listeners can find you, obviously they can, they can buy The Fountain,, and they should. You're inn is called?Casey ScieszkaThe Spruceton Inn, a Catskills Bed & Bar. We're a little nine-room hotel.KJ Dell'Antonia(laughing) Bed and bar. That's awesome.Casey ScieszkaYeah. I mean, I don't, I don't really mess with breakfast. I mean, you get very nice coffee and some pop tarts. I love a good highbrow, lowbrow, and we are five miles down a seven mile dead end road in the middle of the mountains.KJ Dell'AntoniaOkay, I love this for everyone. And is there any particular social media where you are fun and joyful?Casey ScieszkaYeah, you can find us on Instagram at sprucetoninn. That's also like some writing stuff and same with Substack. Only other thing I'll say about the inn is we also run an artist residency program, an annual one. So every August we open it up to folks, writers, 2D artists. Basically, if you can make it in a motel room without disturbing your neighbors, come on and make it with us, and you get, you get, like, a week-long stay. No cost, in the month of November.KJ Dell'AntoniaThat is so fun and so cool. And I bet you're going to get a lot more applications than you can handle this time around. Alright, well, thank you so much for spending this time with me.Casey ScieszkaThank you so much for chatting.KJ Dell'AntoniaAnd amazing best of luck with the book, which I loved. All right, kids, I'm signing this off with our new sign off. Until next time, stop playing small and write like it matters.NarratorThe Hashtag AmWriting Podcast is produced by Andrew Perrella. Our intro music, aptly titled, Unemployed Monday, was written and played by Max Cohen. Andrew and Max were paid for their time and their creative output, because everyone deserves to be paid for their work. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amwriting.substack.com/subscribe

This is the first of three episodes on J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings to be released in the course of the next several months. Focusing here on The Fellowship of the Ring, our hosts discuss the first leg of Frodo's journey into darkness, paying special attention to Tolkien's prose style, his modernism, his commitment to a truly magical realism, and his penchant for the weird and the tragic. Image: "Lothlorien" by Tessa Bronsky, via Wikimedia Commons. References J. R. R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring   Algernon Blackwood, English writer   Weird Studies, Episode 204 on “On Fairy Stories”  Peter Jackson (dir.), The Lord of the Rings  Ursula K. LeGuin, A Wizard of Earthsea  Friedrich Nietzsche, History in the Service and Disservice of Life   Milan Kundera, The Art of the Novel Kenneth Burke, A Grammar of Motives  Carl Jung, The Red Book   Lord Dunsaney, The King of Elfland's Daughter   Karl Marx, The Communist Manifesto   David Foster Wallace, “E Unibus Pluram”   Steven Chow (dir.), Kung Fu Hustle  Donna Tartt, The Secret History   Lost Lakes, YouTube Channel  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fr. Anthony talks with returning guest co-host Robert Clark, as a wounded Frodo and his companions make the long and difficult journey from Amon Sul to Bruinen..