Podcasts about Gomer

Dave explores mystagogy, the often overlooked final stage of OCIA that begins after the Easter Vigil and calls new Catholics to go deeper into the mysteries they've just entered. Rather than being a finish line, he explains it as the start of lifelong formation. He also reflects on grief and how suffering can deepen belief in the resurrection, highlights the need for stronger parish community and post-Easter formation, and asks for prayers for Gomer's dad and family as his father's health declines. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Ozeáš 1,1-9 1 Slovo Hospodina, ktoré prehovorilo k Ozeášovi, synovi Beeriho, v období judských kráľov Uzziju, Jotáma, Acháza a Chizkiju a v čase izraelského kráľa Jarobeáma, Joášovho syna. 2 Začiatok Hospodinovej reči prostredníctvom Ozeáša. Hospodin povedal Ozeášovi: „Vezmi si smilnú ženu a maj deti zo smilstva, lebo krajina strašne smilní, odvrátila sa od Hospodina.“ 3 Vzal si teda Gomer, dcéru Diblajima. Tá počala a porodila mu syna. 4 Vtedy mu Hospodin povedal: „Daj mu meno Jezreel, lebo onedlho potrestám dom Jehuov za krviprelievanie v Jezreeli a potom urobím koniec kráľovstvu Izraela. 5 V ten deň zlomím luk Izraelov v údolí Jezreel.“ 6 Potom opäť počala a porodila dcéru. Vtedy mu povedal: „Daj jej meno Neomilostená, pretože už viac nebudem mať súcit s domom Izraela — veľmi sa mi protivia. 7 Nad domom Júdu sa však zľutujem a prídem im na pomoc ako Hospodin, ich Boh, ale nie s lukom a mečom ani s koňmi so záprahom, teda nie bojom.“ 8 Potom, čo odstavila Neomilostenú, počala a porodila syna. 9 Vtedy povedal: „Daj mu meno Nie môj ľud, lebo vy nie ste mojím ľudom a ja nie som vaším Bohom. Ako sa cítite, keď niekto zradí vašu dôveru? To je podľa mňa to najhoršie, čo človek môže cítiť. Myšlienku, že ste s niekým počítali a on vás sklamal, je ťažké odhaliť. Najmä vtedy, keď by ste im dali čokoľvek, urobili pre nich čokoľvek, boli by ste tu vždy pre nich. Nikdy by ste ich nesklamali. A práve tieto myšlienky rozvádza kniha Ozeáš. Vidíme muža s nevernou manželkou… a deťmi, ktoré pravdepodobne nie sú jeho… Celá táto situácia je veľmi tragická… Pre proroka – veľmi srdcervúca. Ozeáš nám predstavuje príbeh o manželstve, ktorý použil ako podobenstvo vo svojom kázaní. Pán Boh ako manžel. Nevernou manželkou je Izrael. No pokojne si tam môžeme doplniť aj seba. Možno sme boli práve takíto vo svojom živote. Boh nás však miluje aj v tom najhoršom. Nepozeral sa na nás ružovými okuliarmi. Vedel o najhorších veciach, ktoré sme kedy urobili – o veciach, o ktorých dúfame, že sa to nikto nikdy nedozvie a na ktoré sa hanbíme čo i len pomyslieť… A predsa nás miluje. Občas pred Ním utekáme. Naďalej sme Mu neverní. No Boh sa nás len tak nevzdá. Čistí nás, približuje nás k Sebe a nikdy, nikdy sa nevzdáva. Toto je Božia láska k nám dnes. Modlitba: Pane, Ty nás najlepšie poznáš, vidíš, čoho všetkého sme schopní. Odpusť nám a veď nás aj dnes cestou lásky! Amen. Pieseň: ES 509 Autor: Tibor Molnár Prikázal som ti predsa: „Buď silný a odvážny, nestrachuj sa a nezúfaj!“ Jozue 1,9 Pavol píše: „Ba sami nad sebou sme prijali ortieľ smrti, aby sme dôverovali nie sebe, ale Bohu, ktorý kriesi mŕtvych. On nás vyslobodil a ešte vyslobodí z takého veľkého nebezpečenstva smrti; v Neho dúfame, že nás vždy znovu vyslobodí.“ 2.Korinťanom 1,9-10 Ján 21,15-19 •  Modlíme sa za: Slavošovce (GeS) Otázky na rozjímanie: Ako dnes vnímam Božiu lásku v mojej nevere — či som si vedomý/á, že Boh nás pozná v našich najhorších veciach, a predsa nás miluje a neustáva nás čistiť a približovať k Sebe? Kde v mojom živote som ako neverný Izrael — či utekám pred Bohom, som Mu stále neverný/á, alebo som ochotný/á sa vrátiť a byť znova Jeho ľudom? Ako dnes odpovedám na Božiu lásku, ktorá „sa nás len tak nevzdá“ — či žijem z istoty, že On ma nikdy neopustí, alebo stále dúfam vo vlastnú silu a zásluhy? Aplikácia do života: Dnes si spomeňte na jednu situáciu, kde ste zažili Božiu lásku aj v svojej nevere. Napíšte si jednu modlitbu, kde sa vyznávate svojej nevery a vďačíte za Božiu milosť. Potom urobte jeden krok vrátenia sa k Bohu: čítanie Slova, modlitba, alebo vyznanie hriechu pred niekým. Dnes som vďačný za tieto 3 veci: _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ Viac o vďačnosti, čo to je, prečo je dôležité byť vďačný, ako praktizovať vďačnosť nájdeš na blogu

The story of Hosea and Gomer reveals God's relentless love for humanity. When God commanded Hosea to marry an unfaithful woman, it illustrated how God pursues us despite our spiritual unfaithfulness. Just as Hosea paid fifteen shekels of silver and barley to redeem Gomer from slavery, Jesus paid the ultimate price with His blood to redeem us from sin. God's love doesn't just rescue us—it transforms us into new creations. No matter how far we've wandered, God's love pursues, redeems, renews, and restores us completely.

Amar, servir, adorar Por: Pastor Luis Navarrete Oseas 1:2 (NTV). Por medio de la historia de Oseas y Gomer, Dios transmite un poderoso mensaje: su amor inquebrantable por su pueblo. Aunque el pueblo le fue infiel en muchas ocasiones, Dios nunca dejó de amarlo. De la misma manera, hoy Dios sigue llamando a sus hijos a regresar a Él para amarle, servirle y adorarle de todo corazón. 1. Amar. El amor es el inicio de nuestra historia con Dios. Todo ser humano tiene un vacío en su corazón. Es un vacío de amor que solo Dios puede llenar. Todos hemos experimentado el amor de Dios. Ese amor nos cautivó, nos sanó, nos conmovió y nos transformó. Romanos 5:8. Muchos recordamos el momento en que el Señor tocó nuestras vidas. Nuestro encuentro con Cristo nos marcó para siempre. La gratitud llenaba nuestro corazón y otra pregunta surgía constantemente: ¿Qué puedo hacer por ti, Señor? Ese amor nos llevó a comprometernos con la iglesia y con la obra de Dios. Queríamos estar en cada reunión y participar en cada actividad. Y de manera natural, el siguiente paso fue servir. 2. Servir. Como respuesta a su amor, empezamos a servir al Señor. No importaban las dificultades; el amor y gratitud eran suficientes para superar pruebas, ofensas y obstáculos en el camino. El fruto del primer amor siempre es bueno. Oseas 1:3 (NTV). Oseas 2:5-8 (NTV). Pero, el corazón de Gomer comenzó a cambiar y debilitarse a causa de los deseos de la carne y los engaños del enemigo. Ella volvió sus ojos hacia sí misma y sus antiguos deseos. Creyó que debía suplir sus propias necesidades, olvidando a su proveedor, su esposo. Lo mismo puede suceder con nosotros. Nos sentirnos usados y la gratitud desaparece. Vienen cuestionamientos y encontramos razones para quejarnos. Nuestra atención se desvía hacia otras cosas y comenzamos a perseguirlas. Olvidamos que todo lo que tenemos proviene de Dios y terminamos poniendo sus bendiciones al servicio del mundo. Oseas 2:6-8 (NTV). Entonces surgen las preguntas: ¿En qué momento perdimos el camino? ¿En qué momento nos dejamos engañar? ¿En qué momento la historia de amor cambió? Y ¿Cómo podemos mantener ese primer amor? 3. Adorar. La adoración es rendición y entrega completa a Dios, que nace del corazón, en espíritu y en verdad. Es lo que nos mantiene conectados a su amor. Es nuestra expresión de amor y devoción hacia nuestro Amado. Nunca descuidemos el anhelo por su presencia, nuestra comunión y nuestra intimidad con Él. Una relación sana con Dios se construye diariamente sobre la confianza, la honra y la obediencia. Oseas 2:14-16 (NTV). Dios toma la iniciativa para buscarnos. Las pruebas, aflicciones y desafíos pueden convertirse en puertas de esperanza para llevarnos nuevamente a su presencia. Son oportunidades para regresar al primer amor y a las primeras obras. Oseas 3:1-3. Qué impresionante cuadro del amor de Dios. Aun después de la infidelidad de Gomer, Oseas fue enviado a buscarla, rescatarla y restaurarla. De la misma manera, Dios nos busca cuando nos alejamos, nos llama al arrepentimiento y nos recibe nuevamente con amor. El mensaje de Oseas sigue vigente hoy: Dios nos llama a volver a nuestro primer amor. Primero nos amó, luego nos llevó a servirle y, finalmente, nos invita a permanecer en una vida de adoración constante. Amar, servir y adorar no son etapas separadas de la vida cristiana; son expresiones de una misma relación de amor con nuestro Señor La entrada Amar, servir, adorar – Ps. Luis Navarrete se publicó primero en Comunidad de Fe.

Broken Promises Hosea 1-2:13 The word of the LORD that came to Hosea, the son of Beeri, in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel. 2 When the LORD first spoke through Hosea, the LORD said to Hosea, “Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom, for the land commits great whoredom by forsaking the LORD.” 3 So he went and took Gomer, the daughter of Diblaim, and she conceived and bore him a son. 4 And the LORD said to him, “Call his name Jezreel, for in just a little while I will punish the house of Jehu for the blood of Jezreel, and I will put an end to the kingdom of the house of Israel. 5 And on that day I will break the bow of Israel in the Valley of Jezreel.” 6 She conceived again and bore a daughter. And the LORD said to him, “Call her name No Mercy, for I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel, to forgive them at all. 7 But I will have mercy on the house of Judah, and I will save them by the LORD their God. I will not save them by bow or by sword or by war or by horses or by horsemen.” 8 When she had weaned No Mercy, she conceived and bore a son. 9 And the LORD said, “Call his name Not My People, for you are not my people, and I am not your God.” 10  Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be like the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured or numbered. And in the place where it was said to them, “You are not my people,” it shall be said to them, “Children of the living God.” 11 And the children of Judah and the children of Israel shall be gathered together, and they shall appoint for themselves one head. And they shall go up from the land, for great shall be the day of Jezreel. -- 2  Say to your brothers, “You are my people,” and to your sisters, “You have received mercy.” 2  “Plead with your mother, plead— for she is not my wife, and I am not her husband— that she put away her whoring from her face, and her adultery from between her breasts; 3  lest I strip her naked and make her as in the day she was born, and make her like a wilderness, and make her like a parched land, and kill her with thirst. 4  Upon her children also I will have no mercy, because they are children of whoredom. 5  For their mother has played the whore; she who conceived them has acted shamefully. For she said, ‘I will go after my lovers, who give me my bread and my water, my wool and my flax, my oil and my drink.' 6  Therefore I will hedge up her way with thorns, and I will build a wall against her, so that she cannot find her paths. 7  She shall pursue her lovers but not overtake them, and she shall seek them but shall not find them. Then she shall say, ‘I will go and return to my first husband, for it was better for me then than now.' 8  And she did not know that it was I who gave her the grain, the wine, and the oil, and who lavished on her silver and gold, which they used for Baal. 9  Therefore I will take back my grain in its time, and my wine in its season, and I will take away my wool and my flax, which were to cover her nakedness. 10  Now I will uncover her lewdness in the sight of her lovers, and no one shall rescue her out of my hand. 11  And I will put an end to all her mirth, her feasts, her new moons, her Sabbaths, and all her appointed feasts. 12  And I will lay waste her vines and her fig trees, of which she said, ‘These are my wages, which my lovers have given me.' I will make them a forest, and the beasts of the field shall devour them. 13  And I will punish her for the feast days of the Baals when she burned offerings to them and adorned herself with her ring and jewelry, and went after her lovers and forgot me, declares the LORD. I. To obey God we must surrender to God. II. One must obey God to understand the things of God. III. To obey God we must be honest with God and with ourselves. If every member of my church were just like me, what would we be like?

Jim Nabors' decision to end his hit show Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. after five years was multifaceted, influenced by personal ambition, the shifting landscape of American culture, and the changing tides of network television.

The Easter Vigil is more than a beautiful liturgy, it's the culmination of salvation history and the climax of the catechumenate. Gomer and Dave unpack the rich symbolism of the Church's greatest liturgical celebration, from the new fire and Paschal Candle to baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist. They explore why the Vigil is centered on those entering the Church, how the liturgy embodies the Gospel through signs and symbols, and why Christians should never underestimate the power of the Church's ancient traditions. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Sand, Eis, Luft. Egal vor welchem Problem er steht, er wird es lösen. Auch wenn sehr, sehr langsam. Möglicherweise rückwärts. Möglicherweise auch Kopfüber. Gefällt euch, was ihr hört? Eure Unterstützung über Steady macht unseren Podcast erst möglich – und ihr seid ein besonderer Teil unserer Community. Wir freuen uns auch über euer Feedback auf Spotify, Instagram oder auf unserem Discord! Neugierig auf mehr? Abonniert unseren Newsletter und seid dabei: Ihr erhaltet regelmäßig Heldendumm-Quickies, Neuigkeiten rund um den Podcast und exklusive Einblicke hinter die Kulissen. Heldendumm ist ein Teil vom #Historytelling-Netzwerk. Mehr zu dem Thema findet ihr auf geschichtspodcasts.de! Mehr zur dieser Episode: Thomas Poulter (Wikipedia EN) Antarctic Snow Cruiser (Wikipedia EN) What was Byrd's infamous Antarctic Snow Cruiser doing in Gomer, Ohio? (byrd.osu.edu) Admiral Byrd's Antarctic Snow Cruiser (huffpost.com) [VIDEO] Antarctic Snow Cruiser auf der Rampe (StoryCars via YouTube) Intro- & Outro-Musik: @lcp_ictures auf Instagram Das Transkript zur Episode findet ihr hier. #HeldendummGlatt

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Who do you belong to? Listen to our text today, and yes, it is the same one from yesterday, Hosea 3:3: "And I said to her, 'You must dwell as mine for many days. You shall not play the whore, or belong to another man; so will I also be to you.'" — Hosea 3:3 Let's focus on this phrase today. "You must dwell as mine…" I don't want you to miss this word—mine. That is the operative word. Hosea doesn't just bring Gomer back to safety. He brings her back into belonging. After everything she had done—after the other lovers, the betrayal, the collapse of her life—he doesn't redefine her by her past. He reclaims her. "You are mine." This is not control. This is what covenant love does. She is no longer her own. And this is the part of redemption that modern people resist. We like grace when it rescues us. But we don't like it when it claims us. But this is how redemption works. Hosea didn't buy her back so she could go live however she wanted. He bought her back so she could belong to him again. And this is where redemption forces change, not more of the same. If you say you belong to God—but still live as if your life is yours—something doesn't line up. If you claim faith—but your decisions, priorities, and desires are still self-directed—you're holding onto something God has already purchased. Because you were not just forgiven. You were claimed, and that changes everything. It changes how you think. It changes how you live. And it changes what you pursue. Don't reduce your relationship with God to belief alone. When you surrender to him, he owns you. You are not your own anymore. And that is the best possible situation for you. DO THIS: Ask God today where you are still living as if your life belongs to you—and surrender that area to him. ASK THIS: What does it actually mean for your life to belong to God? Where are you still holding onto control instead of surrendering? How would your life change if you fully lived like you were his? PRAY THIS: Father, remind me that I belong to you. Help me surrender every part of my life and live fully under your authority. Amen. PLAY THIS: "I Surrender"

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Are boundaries closing in on you today? If so, there could be a reason behind it. Listen to our text today, Hosea 3:3: "And I said to her, 'You must dwell as mine for many days. You shall not play the whore, or belong to another man; so will I also be to you.'" — Hosea 3:3 Hosea brings his unfaithful wife home at a cost to himself, even though he was the offended. That's grace. But what follows isn't a rapid return—it's a slower and deliberate restoration. He says: "You must dwell as mine for many days…" Hosea is going to need time. A season where relational trust is rebuilt. Proximity is restored, but reconciliation is not rushed. Instead, there is a space of time—"many days." Then he states: "You shall not play the whore, or belong to another man…" Gomer is brought back into the home, but not back into the same life. The old ways are cut off. The patterns that shaped her whoring life are no longer permitted. This is protection. It's the beginning of change and healing. Real restoration doesn't ignore the past. It retrains what the past has formed and reforms it. And the same is true in our relationship with God. Grace brings us back. It redeems and pays for what was broken. But it demands a change in how we live. There are things we once tolerated that God will no longer tolerate. Habits once normalized that will now be out of place. This is not restriction, it is protection and restoration. And this is where many people struggle. Many want forgiveness without behavioral change. Restoration without reconciliation. Benefits from God—without letting go of other gods. But that's not how love, grace, and redemption work. God doesn't buy you back so you can stay the same. He buys you back into a life that is now his, not yours. So if you find yourself in a season where God is slowing things down, setting boundaries, or asking you to walk differently—don't resist it. That's restoration at work. DO THIS: Ask God to show you one area of your life he is reshaping, and take a step today to align with that change. ASK THIS: Where might God be asking you to embrace change instead of returning to old patterns? Why is it difficult to accept that restoration takes time? What would it look like for you to fully step into the new life God is giving you? PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for restoring me with patience and purpose. Help me embrace the change you are working in my life. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Better Man"

Pope Leo's first encyclical tackles one of the biggest questions of our age: artificial intelligence. Gomer and Dave unpack the promises and dangers of AI, from truth, education, and social media to warfare, work, and human relationships. Are we building a tool that serves humanity, or a new Tower of Babel? Find out how Catholics should respond with wisdom, beauty, strong families, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Gomer's dad is out of the hospital and in a care home and this episode starts there, in the territory of walking a parent toward the end of his life. Luke and Gomer work through the lessons Gomer has picked up in the trenches: what hospitals won't tell you, how to have the DNR conversation, and why AI has become an unlikely companion through all of it. In This Episode: Why hospitals won't spell out what's actually happening with your loved one and how Gomer used AI to decode his dad's medical charts and communicate clearly with family Lesson one from the hospital: no one will tell you what's going on unless you make them, and the only people who will are in palliative care The do-over myth and why middle age is when you realize the world stopped giving them to you—you don't go back, you live with the scar tissue The DNR conversation: what it actually means, why outside-of-hospital DNR requires a signed document on the door, and why you should have it sooner than you think When specialists miss the whole person: how productivity-driven, siloed medicine can leave no one reading the full picture Chapters: 00:00: Welcome Back 00:46: Gomer's Dad and the Care Home 02:08: Lesson One—Hospitals Won't Tell You Anything 07:25: Luke's Dad and Losing People Too Soon 20:00: The Gradual Decline You Can't See Coming 24:00: Reality, Do-Overs, and the Things That Can't Be Undone 29:38: When Specialists Miss the Whole Person 37:54: The DNR Conversation 41:47: Big Fish and What We Learn from Our Parents' Stories 48:21: What Parents Say When They Think It's Time 53:23: AI, Claude, and the Bot That Said It Was Praying for You Resources Mentioned: Rebuilding Mum and Dad (YouTube) Catching Foxes on Substack Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring]In this outstanding and thought-provoking episode of the Watchman Report, we delve into a major geopolitical shift that is quietly reshaping the world order: Europe's move towards strategic independence from America. As headlines from February 2026 report that European leaders are preparing for a future without the US as its ultimate security guarantor, we ask the question—what does this mean for the student of Bible prophecy?This is an insightful and revealing exposition of Ezekiel 38 and Revelation 17, exploring how current events are aligning with the prophetic stage. We examine the ancient nations of Magog, Meshech, Tubal, and Gomer, using the historical writings of Josephus to identify them with modern-day Russia and Europe. The video lays out a wonderful, scriptural framework showing how a Russian-led European confederacy is set to emerge in the latter days, standing apart from the Anglo-Saxon maritime powers of Tarshish (Britain) and her young lions (the United States).Join us for this inspirational study as we connect the dots between today's headlines and the sure word of prophecy, pointing towards the ultimate intervention of God and the establishment of His Kingdom.*Chapters:*00:00 - Introduction: The Shifting Alliances in Europe01:52 - News Headlines: Europe Prepares for Life Without US Backing03:26 - The Prophetic Significance: Ezekiel 38 and the Latter Days04:55 - Identifying the Nations: Josephus and the Scythians07:00 - The Prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal: The Russian Connection08:39 - Gomer and his Bands: Identifying Western Europe09:52 - Revelation 17: The Ten Kings and European Unity11:25 - The Merchants of Tarshish: Britain, America, and the Young Lions13:28 - The Direction of Travel: Setting the Stage for Prophecy15:05 - Conclusion: Moving Towards God's Kingdom*Bible Verses Referenced:*

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Listen to our text today, Hosea 3:1b: "…love a woman who is loved by another man and is an adulteress…" — Hosea 3:1b Gomer doesn't even have a name here. Just "a woman," not "a wife." This is not accidental. In chapter 1, she was Gomer—Hosea's wife. Known. Claimed. Connected. Now she's described by what she's become: "Loved by another… an adulteress." Sin has rewritten her identity and replaced it. And here's the tension you can't ignore. She is still being "loved." But it's not covenant love. This is promiscuous or unfaithful love. And the longer she stays in it, the more promiscuous and unfaithful she becomes. That's how sin works. It slowly relabels you. What started as a momentary choice becomes a pattern. Until one day, you're no longer known by who you belong to… …but by what you've given yourself to. So let's bring this concept uncomfortably close. If you keep returning to the same sin—knowing it's pulling you away from God—but calling it "struggle" instead of what it is, sin, you're not managing it. It's shaping and reshaping you. If you keep feeding an appetite—lust, approval, control, comfort—and continue to think of it as harmless. You need to see here, it is not harmless. It's relabeling you. If your private life contradicts your public faith, and you've learned how to live with that struggle, then something is already being rewritten. Don't soften the question today: What is defining you right now? Because you are not becoming what you claim to believe. You are becoming what you keep returning to. And if you don't confront it, what you love will eventually rename you. DO THIS: Name the one pattern or sin you keep returning to, and confess it plainly to God without minimizing it. ASK THIS: Where have you started to normalize something God clearly calls sin? What patterns in your life are quietly shaping your identity? What would it look like to confront that honestly today? PRAY THIS: Father, expose anything in me that is redefining who I am apart from you. Give me the courage to confront it and return fully to you. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Who You Say I Am"

https://square.link/u/UHRU92rp - Donate HereToday's reading brings us to 1 Peter 2 one more time, focusing on this incredible truth: “Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people.” Peter reaches back into the story of Hosea to remind suffering believers that God is the kind of Redeemer who goes after the unfaithful, restores the undeserving, and turns “no mercy” into mercy received.Like Hosea bringing Gomer back, God has pursued us with a love we did not earn and a grace we could never deserve. In Christ, we are no longer abandoned, nameless, or outside the family—we are chosen, called, loved, and made His people. Whatever season of trial or waiting we may be in, we can live with confidence because we belong to the God whose mercy has found us and made us new.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Our shout-out today goes to Douglas Ingham from Bend, OR. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. Listen to our text today, Hosea 3:1a: And the LORD said to me, "Go again, love a woman…" — Hosea 3:1a This is not the beginning of the story. It's the continuation. By the time we reach Hosea 3, Gomer is no longer just unfaithful—she's gone. What began as promiscuity has spiraled into something darker. She has given herself over to other lovers, and now she has likely fallen into slavery. And God speaks again. "Go… love." Not "leave." Not "replace." Not "move on." Go! Imagine it. Those of you who have suffered through unfaithfulness in marriage, I want you to truly imagine you pursuing someone who walked out on you. It is a command not based on romance. It's about obedient love. Covenant love. Notice how the language shifts from "take a wife" (Hosea 1:2) to "love a woman." She is still his wife, but she no longer lives like it—here "a woman". And here is what makes this command so powerful. God does not tell Hosea to wait for her to come back. He tells him to go get her. This is the pattern of God's love. He does not respond to our pursuit. We don't pursue Him. God initiates the pursuit because we act like whores and harlots. God moves toward unfaithful whores who have already walked away and violated the covenant relationship. This is what Scripture shows again and again. God speaks, calls, pursues—long before his people return. His love is not built on our faithfulness but on his character. And that means something for you. If you've drifted, if your devotion has thinned out, if your life has slowly shifted toward other loves—you may assume the next move is yours. It's not. God has already moved. The question is whether you will respond to his loving pursuit? Some people spend years waiting for the right moment to return—when they feel more sincere, more consistent, more ready. But this text dismisses that justification. God doesn't say, "Come back when you changed." He says, "Come back because you have changed and I have not." DO THIS: Take a few minutes today to return to God in prayer—honestly acknowledging where you've drifted and turning your attention back to him. ASK THIS: Where have you been drifting instead of returning to God? Why do we often wait to feel ready before responding to God? What would it look like for you to respond to God's pursuit today? PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for pursuing me even when I drift. Help me respond to you today with honesty and obedience. Amen. PLAY THIS: "O Come to the Altar"

Kimberly Gomer is a dietitian with a Masters in Nutrition. She has over 25 years of experience coaching clients for health and wellness. Kimberly's specialty is weight management, insulin resistance, and prevention. She was the Director of Nutrition at the Pritikin Longevity Center for 10 years and is currently in private practice. Kimberly is a concierge nutritionist who offers 24/7 coaching support. She partners with clients to build a sustainable and successful lifestyle plan. Connect with Jon Dwoskin: Twitter: @jdwoskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.dwoskin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejondwoskinexperience/ Website: https://jondwoskin.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondwoskin/ Email: jon@jondwoskin.com Get Jon's Book: The Think Big Movement: Grow your business big. Very Big! Connect with Kimberly Gomer:Website: KimberlyGomer.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Kimmygomer     *E - explicit language may be used in this podcast.

As their parents grow older and suffering becomes more personal, Gomer and Dave reflect on the hidden ways God forms saints through weakness, loss, and love. Gomer shares the heartbreaking experience of moving his father into long-term care, while Dave opens up about walking through hospice and caring for his son, Max. In the midst of these deeply human moments, they explore what it truly means to accompany another person in the faith. From OCIA to Confirmation and everyday Christian life, they unpack the real role of a sponsor, not just as a title, but as a spiritual guide, mentor, and witness. Together, they challenge common misconceptions, explain what the Church actually teaches, and offer practical wisdom for choosing, and becoming, someone who helps lead others closer to Christ. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In Week 4 of Hosea: A Living Sermon of God's Love, we look at Hosea 3:1-5 and see the costly, pursuing love of God.Hosea's pursuit of Gomer gives us a picture of the way God pursues His people with covenant faithfulness. God's love does not excuse sin or ignore brokenness, but it does move toward the rebel with grace, redemption, and restoration.In this message, “The Pursuit,” we are challenged to consider what it means to receive God's faithful love and then reflect that same love toward others. God's love is demanding, but it leads us back to repair, restoration, and hope in Him.

What if God told a prophet to marry a prostitute so an entire nation could see how badly it had betrayed him? Summary The book of Hosea opens with one of the most shocking commands in Scripture—God tells the prophet to marry an unfaithful woman so his broken marriage will become a living message to Israel. Beneath a season of prosperity during the reign of Jeroboam II, the nation had slowly drifted from the God who rescued them, blending worship of the Lord with the idols of their culture. Through Hosea's family and the prophetic names of his children, God exposes Israel's spiritual adultery and warns that judgment is coming. Yet even in the midst of confrontation, the chapter ends with hope, revealing the heart of a faithful God who continues to pursue and restore his people. Reflection & Small Group Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think God chose Hosea's marriage to illustrate Israel's relationship with him? 2. What does the story of Hosea and Gomer reveal about the seriousness of spiritual adultery? 3. How did prosperity during Jeroboam II's reign contribute to Israel's spiritual drift? 4. Why is mixing the worship of God with cultural idols so spiritually dangerous? 5. What message was God communicating through the names Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah, and Lo-Ammi? 6. How can prosperity sometimes create the illusion that everything is spiritually healthy? 7. What are some modern idols that people look to for provision, identity, or security instead of God? 8. Why does Hosea describe idolatry as relational betrayal rather than simply breaking religious rules? 9. What does Hosea 1:10 reveal about God's heart even after announcing judgment? 10. Where in your life might God be calling you to turn away from competing loyalties and return fully to him?

The Battle of Gog and Magog Ezekiel 38:1-3 “And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him, And say, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal.” This chosen text from the opening verses of Ezekiel chapter 38 serves as the foundation for our exposition of the battle of Gog and Magog. The prophecy spans Ezekiel 38 and 39, two chapters that form a unified oracle delivered by the prophet during the Babylonian exile. Ezekiel, whose name means “God strengthens,” was a priest carried into captivity in 597 B.C. alongside King Jehoiachin. His ministry, spanning roughly 593 to 571 B.C., addressed both the judgment upon Judah and the future restoration of God's people.    In these chapters, the Lord shifts from messages of immediate hope and restoration (as seen in Ezekiel 36–37) to a dramatic foretelling of an end-times invasion that will demonstrate His sovereign power over the nations.    The prophecy is set explicitly “in the latter years” and “latter days” (Ezekiel 38:8, 16), pointing to a future period when Israel has been regathered to her land.   By historical geography and biblical genealogy, we understand and believe Gog to be the leader of Russia and Magog as the country itself—Russia. This aligns with a careful reading of the ancient names in light of biblical genealogy, historical geography, and etymological connections preserved in early sources.    The prophecy is not vague symbolism but a specific geopolitical forecast involving a northern power and its allies descending upon a restored Israel.  The structure of the prophecy unfolds in clear stages. Here are the pertinent details presented as bullet points in the order they appear in the biblical text, each accompanied by its primary scripture reference: The divine summons to prophesy against Gog of Magog: The Lord commands Ezekiel to set his face against “Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal” and to declare God's opposition (Ezekiel 38:1-3).   God's sovereign control over the invasion force: The Lord declares He will “turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws,” drawing forth Gog and his vast army of horses, horsemen, and fully armed troops (Ezekiel 38:4).   The composition of the multinational coalition: Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya join with shield and helmet; Gomer and the house of Togarmah from the north quarters come with all their bands, along with “many people” (Ezekiel 38:5-6).   • The command to prepare for battle: Gog and his company are told to be prepared and to act as a guard for the assembled forces (Ezekiel 38:7). The precise timing of the invasion: “After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them” (Ezekiel 38:8).   The nature and scale of the assault: The invaders ascend “like a storm” and cover the land “like a cloud,” with Gog and all his bands and many people (Ezekiel 38:9).   The evil thought that motivates the attack: At that time, thoughts will arise in Gog's mind: “I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates, To take a spoil, and to take a prey…” (Ezekiel 38:10-12).   • The inquiry of observing nations: Sheba, Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish with their young lions question the invaders' intent to seize spoil, silver, gold, cattle, and goods (Ezekiel 38:13). The confirmation of Israel's security at the time of attack: When God's people Israel dwell safely, Gog will know it (Ezekiel 38:14).   The geographic origin and military character of the force: Gog comes “from thy place out of the north parts,” with many people riding upon horses—a great company and a mighty army (Ezekiel 38:15).   • The divine purpose behind the invasion: God Himself brings Gog against His land so that “the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes” (Ezekiel 38:16). The ancient prophetic witness: God asks whether Gog is the one spoken of “in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel” (Ezekiel 38:17).   The unleashing of divine fury: When Gog comes against the land of Israel, God's fury rises; a great shaking occurs in the land (Ezekiel 38:18-19).   • The cosmic and terrestrial convulsions: All creatures shake at God's presence; mountains are thrown down, steep places fall, and every wall collapses (Ezekiel 38:20). Internal chaos and supernatural judgments: God calls for a sword against Gog throughout the mountains; every man's sword turns against his brother; pestilence, blood, overflowing rain, great hailstones, fire, and brimstone fall upon the invaders (Ezekiel 38:21-22).   The magnification of God's name: Through these acts, God magnifies and sanctifies Himself so that many nations know “that I am the Lord” (Ezekiel 38:23).     Turning to Ezekiel 39, the prophecy continues without break, detailing the complete destruction and its aftermath:   The repeated address and partial decimation: God again declares Himself against Gog and will turn him back, leaving only a sixth part, bringing him upon the mountains of Israel (Ezekiel 39:1-2).   The disarmament and slaughter of the army: God smites the bow from Gog's left hand and causes arrows to fall from his right; Gog and all his bands fall upon the mountains of Israel and are given to ravenous birds and beasts (Ezekiel 39:3-5).   Fire sent upon Magog and the isles: God sends fire on Magog and those dwelling carelessly in the isles (Ezekiel 39:6).   The sanctification of God's holy name in Israel: The Lord makes His name known in the midst of Israel and prevents further pollution; the heathen know He is “the Holy One in Israel” (Ezekiel 39:7).   The declaration that the day has come: “Behold, it is come, and it is done, saith the Lord God; this is the day whereof I have spoken” (Ezekiel 39:8).     The seven-year burning of weapons: Israel's inhabitants burn the shields, bucklers, bows, arrows, handstaves, and spears for seven years, using no wood from field or forest (Ezekiel 39:9-10).   The burial of the multitude: Gog and his multitude receive a place of graves in Israel—the valley of the passengers east of the sea, called the valley of Hamon-gog; it stops the noses of passersby (Ezekiel 39:11).   The seven-month cleansing process: The house of Israel buries them for seven months to cleanse the land; all the people participate, and men are employed continually to search and bury remains; a city is named Hamonah (Ezekiel 39:12-16).   The call to the great sacrificial feast: God commands every fowl and beast to assemble for a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel, to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the mighty, princes, rams, lambs, goats, bullocks, horses, chariots, and mighty men (Ezekiel 39:17-20).   The global recognition of God's glory: Through this judgment, God sets His glory among the heathen; the house of Israel knows He is the Lord their God from that day forward (Ezekiel 39:21-22).   The explanation to the nations: The heathen learn that Israel went into captivity for their iniquity, but God now hides His face no longer and pours out His Spirit upon the house of Israel (Ezekiel 39:23-29).     This ordered sequence reveals a meticulously orchestrated drama in which human aggression serves divine purpose. Let us now develop these details more fully, verse by verse and concept by concept, so that the exposition remains clear yet grounded in scholarly observation.   The opening command in Ezekiel 38:1-3 is striking in its directness. The Hebrew phrase “set thy face against” (sim paneyka) is a technical prophetic expression used elsewhere in Ezekiel to denote focused opposition (see Ezekiel 4:3; 6:2).    Gog is not merely a title but the personal name of the leader; Magog is the land—identified here as Russia. Scholarly support for this draws first from Genesis 10:2, where Magog appears in the Table of Nations as a son of Japheth.      The first-century Jewish historian Flavius Josephus explicitly links the descendants of Magog to the Scythians, a fierce nomadic people inhabiting the region north of the Black Sea and Caucasus Mountains—the very territory that became southern Russia.    Early Greek writers such as Hesiod (7th century B.C.) made the same identification. The phrase “chief prince of Meshech and Tubal” further specifies the geographic origin.    The Hebrew “nasi rosh” is best rendered “prince of Rosh,” where “Rosh” is widely understood by many expositors as an ancient designation for the people who later became known as Russians (the name “Rus” appearing in 10th-century sources). Meshech and Tubal, also Japhethite descendants, are associated with regions that later developed into areas around Moscow and Tobolsk.    Thus, the leader Gog emerges from the far northern power of Russia, heading a coalition that includes ancient names now corresponding to modern Iran (Persia), parts of Africa (Ethiopia/Cush and Libya/Put), and northern allies (Gomer and Togarmah, often linked to regions in modern Turkey).     God's control is absolute: “I will put hooks into thy jaws” (Ezekiel 38:4).    This vivid metaphor, drawn from ancient Assyrian and Egyptian practices of leading captives with hooks through the lip or nose, underscores that even the most powerful ruler moves only at the sovereign direction of the Lord.  The army is described with military precision—horses, horsemen, bucklers, shields, swords—reflecting the cavalry-heavy forces of ancient northern steppe peoples, yet the language accommodates any future mechanized equivalent. The coalition's preparation (Ezekiel 38:7) is ironic; they ready themselves, yet they are merely instruments.   The timing is critical and repeated for emphasis: “in the latter years” and “latter days” (Ezekiel 38:8, 16).    Israel must first be “brought back from the sword” and “gathered out of many people” to dwell “safely” on the mountains once waste (Ezekiel 38:8).    This regathering, described in Ezekiel 36–37 as a national resurrection, has its modern counterpart in the return of the Jewish people to their ancestral land. At that moment of apparent security—unwalled villages, no bars or gates (Ezekiel 38:11)—Gog conceives an “evil thought” of plunder.    The motive is economic and strategic: spoil, prey, cattle, goods, silver, and gold (Ezekiel 38:12-13). Observing merchant nations (Sheba, Dedan, Tarshish) question but do not intervene, highlighting the isolation of the attack.   The invasion route is unmistakable: “out of the north parts” (Ezekiel 38:15; 39:2). In biblical geography, “the north” (tsaphon) frequently denotes the direction of ultimate threat (Jeremiah 1:14; 4:6), and from Israel's perspective, the extreme north aligns precisely with Russia's latitude. The force is massive—“a cloud to cover the land” (Ezekiel 38:9, 16)—emphasizing overwhelming numbers.   Yet the true actor is the Lord Himself. He brings Gog against His land precisely “that the heathen may know me” (Ezekiel 38:16). The prophecy echoes earlier oracles (Ezekiel 38:17), indicating this event fulfills long-standing warnings. When the attack begins, divine fury erupts (Ezekiel 38:18).      The “great shaking” (ra'ash) is both literal earthquake and cosmic upheaval (Ezekiel 38:19-20), reminiscent of theophanies at Sinai and in the prophets. Internal confusion turns the invaders' weapons against themselves (Ezekiel 38:21), while supernatural plagues—pestilence, blood, rain, hailstones, fire, and brimstone—complete the rout (Ezekiel 38:22). The purpose is unambiguous: “Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations” (Ezekiel 38:23).   Chapter 39 intensifies the judgment. Only a sixth part survives the initial onslaught (Ezekiel 39:2). The army falls on Israel's mountains and open field, becoming food for birds and beasts—a reversal of the sacrificial imagery used against Israel earlier in the book (Ezekiel 39:4-5). Fire falls on Magog itself and the “isles” (coastal or distant lands), signaling global repercussions (Ezekiel 39:6). Israel's seven-year burning of weapons (Ezekiel 39:9-10) and seven-month burial operation (Ezekiel 39:11-16) portray the totality of victory and the thorough cleansing of the land. The valley of Hamon-gog (“the multitude of Gog”) and the city Hamonah become monuments to the defeat. The great sacrificial feast (Ezekiel 39:17-20) echoes the language of Isaiah 34 and Revelation 19, portraying the invaders' destruction as a divine banquet for creation.   The theological climax is restoration and recognition. Israel knows the Lord is their God from that day forward (Ezekiel 39:22), and the nations understand the reason for past captivity and the reality of present divine intervention (Ezekiel 39:23-29). The outpouring of the Spirit seals the renewal.   In summary, this prophecy reveals the Lord's absolute sovereignty over history. A Russian-led coalition, drawn irresistibly southward in the latter days against a restored and apparently secure Israel, meets catastrophic judgment on the mountains of Israel. The event is not the final battle of history (that occurs later, after a thousand years, in Revelation 20:7-9), but a distinct pre-millennial demonstration that the God of Israel alone is Lord.    The details—names, geography, timing, motives, and judgments—cohere with remarkable precision when read in their plain, grammatical-historical sense. The prophecy calls every reader to recognize the God who controls nations, judges evil, and restores His people.        It stands as both warning and comfort: no alliance, however vast or northerly, can thwart the purposes of the Almighty.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Our shout-out today goes to Raymond Smith from Charlotte, NC. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. Our text today is Hosea 1:6. She conceived again and bore a daughter. And the Lord said to him, "Call her name No Mercy, for I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel, to forgive them at all." — Hosea 1:6 How patient is God? The story of Israel shows us something remarkable—God's patience is long, but it is not endless. Hosea's wife, Gomer, gives birth again. This time, the child is a daughter. And once again, God gives the child a name that carries a message. Lo-ruhamah. In Hebrew, the name means "No Mercy" or "Not Pitied." The meaning would have stunned anyone who heard it. For generations, Israel had relied on the mercy of God. Even when they sinned and wandered, God repeatedly showed compassion and forgave them. But now the warning changes. "I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel." This does not mean God had suddenly become cruel or indifferent. It means the nation had reached a point where they repeatedly rejected the mercy that had already been offered. Over and over, God had sent prophets. Over and over, he called the people back to faithfulness. Over and over, he showed patience. But the nation continued to pursue idols, ignore God's word, and trust in their own strength. Eventually, mercy that is continually rejected turns into discipline. This is one of the most sobering truths in Scripture. God is incredibly patient with his people, but persistent rebellion eventually brings consequences. The warning in Hosea's day was meant to wake the nation up. And the same principle applies to us today. God's mercy is one of the greatest gifts we receive—but mercy is not meant to be ignored or abused. It is meant to lead us back to him. Paul later writes in Romans: "God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance." — Romans 2:4 So today, don't treat God's patience casually. If there is an area of your life where God has been calling you to change, respond while his mercy is still inviting you back. His warnings are not meant to push you away—they are meant to draw you closer. Take a moment today to thank God for his patience in your life, and respond to the places where he is calling you to return. DO THIS: Thank God today for his patience in your life, and respond to one area where he has been calling you to change. ASK THIS: Why do people sometimes mistake God's patience for approval? Where in your life have you experienced God's mercy even when you didn't deserve it? Is there an area where God has been patiently calling you back to him? PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for your mercy and patience in my life. Help me respond to your kindness with repentance and renewed faithfulness. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Lord Have Mercy (For What We Have Done)"

Explore the powerful but often overlooked OCIA stage of Purification and Enlightenment with Gomer and Dave. They unpack the Church's ancient roots, from exorcism prayers and spiritual warfare to the Rite of Election and Lenten scrutinies, and show how this period reveals what needs healing, strengthens what is good, and prepares the elect for the Easter Vigil. Whether you're in OCIA ministry or simply curious about the Church's process of formation, discover a fresh vision of Lent, conversion, and discipleship. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

After a two-month hiatus, Luke and Gomer are back. This episode opens with a conversation about Gomer's father Don's ongoing health decline, the emotional and logistical chaos of elder care, and the conversations no one prepares you to have. From there, the fellas pivot to AI, the World Cup, Hollywood Botox, and the slow enshitification of everything. In This Episode: The full story of Gomer's dad Don's hip replacement, repeated ER visits, and the family's difficult reckoning with permanent skilled nursing care What no one tells you about Medicaid's "look back" provisions, the true cost of elder care, and why planning ahead matters far more than most families realize Gomer's complete 180 on AI and how tools like Claude and ChatGPT have become indispensable for managing his father's medical records, medications, and care in real time Euthanasia, modern medicine's ability to keep people alive without keeping them well, and what it means to age with dignity What they're angry, excited, and concerned about: home construction costs, the Fox Sports World Cup AI ad, The Iliad film, and Hollywood's Botox problem Chapters: 00:00: Welcome Back 02:07: Gomer's Dad's Health Crisis 10:06: End-of-Life Conversations 18:54: Navigating Elder Care and Medicaid 31:39: Euthanasia, Modern Medicine, and Keeping People Alive 42:43: From AI Skeptic to AI Convert 51:29: AI in Practice: Research and Healthcare 01:06:37: What Are You Angry, Excited, and Concerned About? 01:10:09: The Enshitification of Everything Resources Mentioned: Catching Foxes on Patreon Catching Foxes on Substack Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Our shout-out today goes to Jeffrey Nelson from Mooresville, NC. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. Our text today is Hosea 1:3. So he went and took Gomer, the daughter of Diblaim, and she conceived and bore him a son. — Hosea 1:3 Hosea doesn't argue. He doesn't delay. He doesn't negotiate the terms. He simply obeys. "So he went and took Gomer…" That short phrase reveals something powerful about Hosea's character. When God spoke, Hosea acted. Even though the assignment was painful. Even though it would affect his reputation. Even though the cost would follow him for years. Hosea marries Gomer, the woman God told him to take as his wife. And just like that, the prophet's life becomes the message. The marriage itself would be difficult, but God was revealing something deeper through it. Hosea's faithful love for an unfaithful wife would mirror God's covenant love for a people who continually turned away from him. Throughout the Bible, marriage often reflects the covenant relationship between God and his people. The prophets described Israel as God's bride. Later, the New Testament describes the church as the bride of Christ. Marriage is meant to reflect covenant faithfulness. That's why Israel's idolatry was so serious. It wasn't just disobedience—it was betrayal. The people who belonged to God were giving their hearts to other gods. Hosea's obedience allowed the nation to see this truth in a way they could not ignore. Sometimes God asks his people to obey in ways that stretch their comfort and challenge their understanding. Obedience may cost time, reputation, relationships, or personal plans. But faithful obedience always begins the same way. God speaks. And we respond. So today, consider this: is there an area where God has already made his will clear, but hesitation or fear has kept you from acting? Faith grows when obedience moves from intention to action. Take one step today toward doing what you already know God has called you to do. DO THIS: Identify one clear step of obedience God has already placed in front of you—and take that step today without delay. ASK THIS: Where in your life might God be asking for obedience right now? What fears or concerns sometimes keep you from acting on what God has already made clear? How might your obedience influence the people around you? PRAY THIS: Father, give me the courage to obey you even when obedience feels costly or uncomfortable. Help my life reflect faithfulness to you. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Trust and Obey"

There is an image from the now ancient TV show Gomer Pyle of a drill sergeant in the face of his recruit berating him for his stupidity, and Gomer, the recruit, is smiling as if this is the sweetest language he'd ever heard. Without question, pastors are not to be the drill sergeant in this scenario. But neither are they to be Gomer. Sometimes the treatment pastors receive crosses the line into abuse, and when it does, to deal with it, they need to be able to name it. We encourage you to also subscribe to our newsletter where, on third Mondays and at other times there may be additional content. You can do so here. You can help support this podcast by supporting us on Patreon. You can do so here. EPISODE NOTES Notes and resources relevant to this episode: Standing Stone Ministries Eleven Steps for Responding to Criticism Podcast music provided by Cool Hand Luke and used with permission.Intro: “Holy Vanguard” / LyricsOutro: “Wonder Tour” / Lyrics / Video To find our more about Greatheart's Table, visit us here.

Hosea unfolds like a dramatic story—moving from shocking betrayal to devastating warning and finally to the hope of redemption. Summary The book of Hosea unfolds in four major movements that reveal the depth of Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness and the persistence of God's covenant love. It begins with Hosea's marriage to Gomer, a living illustration of Israel's betrayal of God. The prophet then exposes the nation's corruption and warns of the consequences that follow when a people abandon the knowledge of God. Yet the book ultimately ends with an invitation to return, showing that God's final word is restoration for those who repent. Reflection & Small Group Discussion Questions Why do you think God used Hosea's personal life as a prophetic message to Israel? What does the story of Hosea and Gomer reveal about the seriousness of spiritual unfaithfulness? In Hosea 4–7, how does the rejection of truth affect an entire culture and its leadership? Why does Hosea repeatedly emphasize the "knowledge of God" as the key issue in Israel's downfall? What does the phrase "they sow the wind and reap the whirlwind" teach about the consequences of sin? How can small spiritual compromises eventually lead to larger personal or cultural collapse? Why is it important that Hosea shows both God's judgment and his compassion? What does Hosea 14 teach us about repentance and God's willingness to restore? How might the four movements of Hosea apply to the spiritual condition of nations today? Which movement of Hosea—betrayal, accusation, consequence, or restoration—do you see most clearly in your own spiritual journey right now?

What happens when a nation blessed by God slowly drifts until it starts living like God no longer matters? Summary The book of Hosea reveals the heartbreaking story of a faithless people and a faithful God. Through the shocking command for the prophet Hosea to marry an unfaithful woman, God illustrates Israel's spiritual adultery and exposes the deeper problem of divided loyalty. Hosea shows how a nation's moral collapse begins when it forgets the God who formed it, replacing true relationship with empty religion. Yet even in the midst of judgment, the book reveals God's relentless covenant love and his promise to redeem those who return to him. Reflection & Small Group Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think God chose Hosea's marriage as a living illustration of Israel's spiritual condition? 2. How does the Bible's description of idolatry as "adultery" change how we understand sin? 3. What are some modern idols people trust for security, identity, or success instead of God? 4. Hosea connects spiritual decline with national collapse. Why do you think the two are related? 5. What is the difference between knowing about God and truly knowing God (Hosea 6:6)? 6. Why can religious activity continue even when a person's heart has drifted from God? 7. What does Hosea reveal about the tension between God's justice and his mercy? 8. Why is God's question in Hosea 11:8 such a powerful window into his heart? 9. How does Hosea and Gomer's story foreshadow God's plan of redemption through Christ? 10. In what area of your life do you need to return to God with renewed loyalty and trust?

This week's episode of Beyond Sunday starts with hilarious stories about siblings, childhood memories, and the random things people refuse to throw away. From old Nintendo systems to mysterious keys and worn-out keepsakes, the conversation naturally shifts into a deeper discussion about forgiveness and why some hurts are much harder to release than others. Using the story of Hosea and Gomer, the team reflects on God's relentless love and the challenge of choosing forgiveness even when it costs something deeply personal.   The second half of the episode dives into what it means to truly forgive, receive forgiveness, and choose love again. The hosts talk about bitterness, relationships, worship, and how God's forgiveness toward us changes the way we treat others. There are heartfelt moments, honest reflections, and somehow a story about Josh dressing up as a giant foam tongue in a children's musical. It's meaningful, funny, and full of reminders that grace changes everything.

“This is not a curriculum, it's a pattern of life.” Gomer and Dave dive into the heart of the catechumenate: what it is, why it matters, and how it's meant to form not just informed Catholics, but transformed ones. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Let's Think About "How Culture Transcends" With Special Guest Daniel Gomer Daniel shares his thoughts on how culture transcends, reminding people that the culture they establish around them will be the one people embody. While learning about Daniel, we discussed his motives in creating a specific culture in his business and how creating a culture that everyone can agree on is vital for everyone's success. This episode aims to prompt thought.          To stay in touch, please visit Daniel's website at https://www.realtopartners.com/ to learn more about him.

What if becoming Catholic wasn't just a class, but a public commitment that changes your entire life? Gomer and Dave unpack the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens in the OCIA process and why it marks a serious turning point in someone's journey toward Christ. They explore how the early Church treated baptism as a life-altering decision, why the Church publicly “receives” catechumens, and what it means to say yes to following Jesus in a real, concrete way. They also discuss conversion, spiritual warfare, and why modern discipleship often lacks the weight it once carried. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Did Jesus really fulfill the Messianic Prophecies? How many of those prophecies could you cite? Is Christian exegesis of these passages actually sound? Michael "Gomer" Gormley joins us to defend the claim that Jesus is the Messiah and shows how to understand this in light of salvation history.  - - - - - - - - - -  The Classical Theism Podcast aims to defend Catholic Christian ideas in conversation. With the help of various guests, I defend three pillars of the Catholic Christian worldview: (1) the God of classical theism exists, (2) Jesus is our Messiah and Lord, and (3) He founded the Catholic Church. We place a strong emphasis on the first pillar, defending classical theism, drawing upon the work of Thomistic philosopher Dr. Edward Feser and many others. John DeRosa www.classicaltheism.com/support Support the show: Check out my book One Less God Than You: How to Answer the Slogans, Cliches, and Fallacies that Atheists Use to Challenge Your Faith >> www.classicaltheism.com/newbook Support on Patreon to help keep the podcast going and to allow me to produce even more quality content: www.classicaltheism.com/support

Life Point Sunday Gathering | Danny Rivers | Love Stories | Hosea & Gomer by Life Point SA

Pastor Joey McLaughlin continues the Half-Hearted: The Death of Going Through the Motions series with a powerful message titled “Return,” calling us to confront the reality of divided hearts and rediscover God's relentless, pursuing love. Through the story of Hosea and Gomer, this sermon exposes how we, like Gomer, are often unfaithful—giving our hearts to lesser things and even enslaving ourselves to sin—yet still reveals a God who doesn't just speak love but proves it by pursuing, redeeming, and restoring us anyway. If you've ever felt distant from God, stuck in routine, or caught between two lives, this message is an invitation to move beyond half-hearted faith into a real, wholehearted relationship with Jesus. It's not about performance or perfection, but about responding to a love that never stops chasing you—and when you truly understand that love, it changes everything.

Why would God instruct His holy prophet to marry an unrepentant prostitute? It sounds like madness, but it's actually the beginning of one of the most controversial and profoundly beautiful love stories in the entire Bible. In this summary of the Book of Hosea: We explore the scandalous marriage of Hosea and Gomer, the prophetic meaning behind their children's names, the painful reality of spiritual adultery, and the shocking lengths God will go to buy back His broken bride. Join me as we explore what this ancient, prophetic story reveals about God's relentless love. Support Rise on Fire Ministries by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/rise-on-fire This podcast is powered by Pinecast.Read transcript

OCIA is meant to guide people into a living relationship with Jesus Christ, but too often it skips the most important step: real evangelization. Gomer and Dave break down the stages of OCIA, expose the biggest gaps, and explain why many people fall away after entering the Church. They share practical ways to rethink parish evangelization, how to know if someone is truly ready for the sacraments, and why a personal encounter with Christ must come first. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

We wrapped up our marriage series being reminded of God's unfailing love for us and how that can play out in our marriages.

Are we having a Catholic revival? In this kickoff episode of the new season, Gomer and Dave return to unpack one of the most important, and often misunderstood, processes in the Catholic Church, OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults). They explore why OCIA matters not just for those entering the Church, but for every Catholic, and how it reveals the deeper mission of evangelization in today's world. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In this Monday Mindset episode, Dan Gomer discussed the concept of leaving an intentional legacy. He explained that everyone leaves a legacy whether intentionally or unintentionally, and emphasized the importance of being clear about what legacy one wants to create and why it matters. Dan shared personal experiences and suggested practical exercises like the "30 days left to live" experiment and the "cubicle mate" value identification method. He stressed the need to align daily actions with one's values and emphasized that feedback from others should be considered as long as it aligns with personal goals. The discussion highlighted the importance of consistent self-reflection and making intentional choices to create a meaningful legacy.

Part one of a three part interview with David Knight about his new book What It Means to Be a Christian. Plus, all the nubub over President Trump's meme. Hosea and Gomer from our prophets segment and finally, lessons learned from falling towars.

Jill's trivia quiz Jill presented the questions while Keith and Terry played a quiz about the TV show Gomer Pyle, USMC, answering questions about characters, actors, and episodes. The quiz covered topics like Sergeant Carter’s girlfriend, Gomer’s friend Duke, and catchphrases from the show.

As Catholic schools navigate a world increasingly hostile to virtue, Dave VanVickle sits down with Christina Mehaffey, principal of Faustina Academy in Irving, Texas, to explore how a school can authentically live its Catholic mission. From social media policies to forming saints, Christina shares insights on creating a culture where students, families, and teachers work together to evangelize and pursue holiness. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Dave calls us to finish Lent strong through prayer, especially at abortion clinics, and to respond wisely to evil. Rather than fixating on shocking cases, we should focus on everyday evils like abortion, pornography, and broken families, responding with faith. The true battle is won through ordinary holiness, evangelization, family love, daily faith, and trust in Christ, guided by Mary. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In this final episode of the season, Dave offers a clear and compelling roadmap for living as a missionary disciple in everyday life. Drawing from the wisdom of evangelization movements and his own pastoral experience, he unpacks ten essential principles—from a personal encounter with Jesus Christ to bold proclamation, sacramental living, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Evangelization can feel intimidating—but mercy is something we all understand. Dave sits down with Dan Gallagher of Move a Mountain Missions to explore how simple encounters with the vulnerable can transform hearts and become the most powerful form of evangelization. Snippet from the Show We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Most people drive past these inner city neighborhoods—but missionaries from Vagabond Missions walk straight into them. Dave sits down with founder Bob Lenosky and president Andy of Vagabond Missions to talk about evangelizing inner-city teens, the messy reality of conversion, and why simply showing up can change a life. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

It's easy to see sports as a distraction from faith, but what if they're actually a powerful path to it? Dave sits down with Julianna Calzonetti and Alex Ruston, Catholic sports outreach coordinators and missionaries serving athletes. Together, they share how the world of sports can become a mission field and how each of us can evangelize by bringing our passions and our faith together. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

This is a nephilim-heavy episode. Strap in! Also, please pray for Gomer's son, Noah. You'll hear all about it in the episode. Enjoy!