Podcasts about great light

It is a perilous thing, in this passing world, to place any love above Jesus Christ, who is Love Himself. Many fair things there are under the sun – family, our houses, the laughter of children, and the solace of deep companionship. These are good, and given as gifts by the Giver of all light. Yet they are but reflections, glimmering on the surface of the water, of the Great Light from Heaven.Our hearts, being frail and easily beguiled, are prone to cling to the reflection, forgetting the Sun. But the Lord, who is both Shepherd and King, calls us to a higher love, a consuming fire that purifies all others. “If anyone comes to Me and hates not father and mother, wife and children…”-- so He speaks, not to destroy love, but to order it aright. For in such words there is no call to cruelty or coldness, but rather to a fierce allegiance, a loyalty that puts first things first. He who is before all must be above all, or else all loves grow crooked and dim.To follow Him is to lay down even the fairest treasures of earth, not in bitterness, but in trust that they shall be returned transfigured. He does not take away to impoverish, but to sanctify. He wants to place every love, every joy, every sorrow, into its proper place beneath the crown of His lordship. Only then do the lesser loves shine with true glory, flowing as clear streams from the great Fountain. For when He is the first love, all else is redeemed; but when He is set aside, even good things become shadows and burdens.So let the heart be steadfast. Let Him be the axis upon which all turns, the melody to which all harmonies must bend. For He alone is the End and the Way, the Flame imperishable, the Love that neither fades nor fails.Yet the path of such love is not without its trials. For the heart must be weaned from many lesser loves, and this weaning is often bitter. The soul may cry out, fearing loss, misunderstanding the command as cruelty. But here lies the mystery: in surrender, we are not emptied, but filled. In placing Christ first – before family, before comfort, before even our own lives – we are not forsaking love, but entering into its truest form. For He is the source from which all loves spring, and without Him, they wither like leaves in a wind.Consider the saints of old, who counted all things loss for the surpassing worth of knowing Him. They were not joyless, nor did they despise the earth, but they saw clearly. Their gaze was fixed beyond the hills, upon a country greater and a King more worthy than all earthly crowns. We too must learn this wisdom: that every good thing flows rightly from a heart anchored in Christ. To love Him first is not to love others less, but more purely, more freely, and with eternity in view. For only in His light do we see light and only in His love are all other loves made whole. Once we order our love properly, then we can finally say with St. Paul as we heard in the Second Reading today, “I (am), an old man, and now also a prisoner for Christ Jesus.” And rejoice! --- Help Spread the Good News --- Father Brian's homilies are shared freely thanks to generous listeners like you. If his words have blessed you, consider supporting this volunteer effort. Every gift helps us continue recording and sharing the hope of Jesus—one homily at a time. Give Here: https://frbriansoliven.org/give

GENESIS - Genesis 11:1-9, a look at the nation's rebellion, darkness, and how they've seen a great light.

Send the show a text message!Renae celebrates closing out Season 7 with one of her favorite recordings from the early days of this podcast. Going back all the way to Season 1, laugh with us as we welcome in Season 8 next week!Celebrate We Will!Peace, Love and DMB,Renae  Support the show

GENESIS - Genesis 10, a look at glorying in the ancient story of our redemption.

You have Seen a Great Light!

Drex and Alisa meander and chat with; Holli Blanton, Leslie Ranne, Lorin Samuels, Reuben Ward, and Jordan Bartlett about their experience in the Lyric Theatre's production of Shakespeare in Love.     Audition Workshop on April 1 from 6:30-8:30 pm (taught by Caitlyn Tidwell in preparation for our summer musical, Legally Blonde, register at brownwoodlyrictheatre.com) Bygone Brown new locally produced podcast (Relive those thrilling days of yesteryear with this extensively researched and entertainingly told - using the voices of Lyric Players - this series brings to life American and Texas history in the 19th century from the perspective of Brown County, Texas) Our Presenting Sponsor for this episode is E3 Studios of Brownwood, from 3d prints to commercial paper products, shirts, hats and more! Visit them on Facebook at E3 Studios!

In this jam-packed episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of chatting with some fascinating authors about empowering young people to live their best lives. First up was Dr. Ran Anbar, a pediatric pulmonologist who discovered the incredible mind-body connection after working with a patient who could literally think himself into an asthma attack. This led Dr. Anbar on a journey to learn about the power of positive self-talk, inner wisdom, and tools like self-hypnosis.  He shares these insights in his book "The Life Guide for Teens: Harnessing Your Inner Power to be Healthy, Happy, and Confident." Dr. Anbar explains the five keys to a good life - sleep, exercise, diet, social connections, and finding purpose - and how teens can use positive thinking to achieve them. He even demonstrates the surprising physical effects of words, showing how saying "I'm strong" can actually make your arm more resistant to being pushed down. Next, Jed spoke with Wayne McDaniel about his beautifully illustrated children's book "Children of the Great Light." This non-denominational spiritual story teaches universal lessons about the divine light within all of us, and the importance of sharing our unique gifts to help others. Wayne is donating all profits to charities that support orphans and foster children, making this a truly heartwarming project. Finally, we take a listen back to a past interview Jed had  with Stenetta Anthony about her picture book "A Home for Sally," which follows the journey of a special needs puppy searching for a forever family. Stenetta was inspired to write this story after noticing a lack of representation for disabled animals in adoption campaigns, wanting to share a message of inclusion and belonging. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and positivity, perfect for parents looking to nurture the mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing of the young people in their lives. Tune in to be inspired! Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

In this season we celebrate the great feast of Theophany, of Christ's baptism when the voice of the Father identified Him as the Son of God and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in the form of a dove. Epiphany reveals that the Savior Who appears from the waters of the Jordan to illumine our world of darkness is the God-Man, a Person of the Holy Trinity. He is baptized to restore us, and the creation itself, to the ancient glory for which we were created. He comes to make all who wandered in the blindness of sin and death radiant with the brilliant light of holiness

Randall Wetzig | Matthew 2:1-12 | Sermon given by Randall Wetzig on the book of Matthew.

 Sermon Notes Date: 01/05/2025 Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor Series: Advent Key Text: Isaiah 9:1-7; Zechariah (selected texts) Description:   Over 700 years before Christ, the prophet Isaiah spoke of a Great Light breaking into the darkness — a Child that would bring peace, justice, and restoration to a world weighed down by darkness and despair. […]

General podcast introduction using "Be Thou My Vision." General podcast outro using "Be Thou My Vision."

The story of Jesus' coming is filled with surprises. When Mary and Joseph arrived at the temple for a routine visit, they encountered two unexpected figures. In this message, Pastor Philip Miller explores the portrayal, the prospect, and the prophecy of God's redemption. Who could fathom that God, to whom we owe everything, would give up everything for us? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. 

The story of Jesus' coming is filled with surprises. When Mary and Joseph arrived at the temple for a routine visit, they encountered two unexpected figures. In this message, Pastor Philip Miller explores the portrayal, the prospect, and the prophecy of God's redemption. Who could fathom that God, to whom we owe everything, would give up everything for us? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29

The story of Jesus' coming is filled with surprises. When Mary and Joseph arrived at the temple for a routine visit, they encountered two unexpected figures. In this message, Pastor Philip Miller explores the portrayal, the prospect, and the prophecy of God's redemption. Who could fathom that God, to whom we owe everything, would give up everything for us? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29

Isaiah 9:2-7 proclaims the truth: Jesus is the Light of the World! He came to shine us out of darkness! Listen and learn! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eradio-valverde/support

Christmas is usually seen as a time of peace. After all, on the first Christmas, the angels declared that there would be peace on earth as a result of the birth of Jesus. Yet, we are far from having peace. Why do we not see the promised peace that the Prince of Peace was said to bring? How can we have that peace, and what is God's plan to bring it about? Is there more to the idea of peace than we think? Two thousand years after the Prince of Peace lived among us, these are all valid questions that we will explore.

The prophet Isaiah, more than 800 years before the birth of Jesus, wrote that a Messiah would come, that the “government would be on His shoulders” and that His kingdom of justice of righteousness would last forever. This promise, of a King who will love what's right and set things right, not only resonated then, but in our chaotic and broken world, resonates with us today. But. sometimes, we modern people, in our thirst for justice, skip over the “righteousness” part, and accidentally do harm. Or, we skip over the “justice” part, leaving empty non-sacrificial religion. But the kingdom of God is both justice AND righteousness. And together, these words show something not only about who God is, but what He's up to and what kind of people He wants his image bearers to be. SPEAKERS: Jay Kim (Saratoga), David Tieche (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Isaiah 9:2,6-7 SPEAKERS: Jay Kim (Saratoga), video (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Isaiah 9:2,5

Dr. Darrin Wright,FBCW,FBC Wheeling,Isaiah Sermon, Isaiah, A Great Light in Darkness, Isaiah 9,

In this message we continue our study of this great passage. After a period of deep darkness, Isaiah speaks of a coming light--a Great Light. This Great Light will dispel the tyranny and oppression of this world and the spiritual forces of darkness imprisoning it. This joy and deliverance comes because "to us a child is born, to us a Son is given. This Son is the light of the world who will dispel the darkness and bring to us peace. This Child is Jesus. He is wonderful. He is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace."

In this message, we are reminded of the profound simplicity and power of trusting in the Lord, especially during the Christmas season. Reflecting on the story of the Magi from Matthew 2, we see how God used a star to guide these wise men to Jesus, illustrating the importance of following the light that God provides in our lives. The Magi, despite their pagan background, recognized the significance of the star and followed it, demonstrating a deep trust in the divine guidance they received. This trust is a call for us to move out of our comfort zones and follow God's light, even when it doesn't make sense or when it leads us to unexpected places. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus is the light of the world, a theme we've explored throughout December. Light, as explained, is composed of three distinct rays, paralleling the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This divine light can dispel darkness, just as Jesus dispels the darkness in our lives. The Magi's journey is a testament to the power of this light and the importance of trusting in God's guidance, regardless of our understanding. As we look forward to 2025, we are encouraged to anticipate a revival, where God will speak to people in unexpected ways. The Magi's story reminds us that God can reach anyone, regardless of their background, and that His ways are often beyond our comprehension. We are called to trust in Him, acknowledging that His plans are perfect, even when they appear simple or humble, like the birth of Jesus in a manger. This Christmas, let us remember the simplicity of God's love and the gift of Jesus, who came to bring us hope, peace, and joy. As we partake in communion, we are reminded of the sacrifice Jesus made for us, and we are encouraged to trust in His light and follow His voice, just as the Magi did.

Christmas Story

12-15-24 Sun AM

We live in a world full of distractions, yet beneath it all lies a deep longing for connection, belonging, and home. This week, we'll explore Isaiah's prophecy of a child born to us—our Everlasting Father. How does Jesus, the Son given to us, reveal the heart of a perfect father? And how does his fatherly care lead us out of loneliness and into what we long for most: a true and lasting home in him? Listen as we discover how Jesus is the great light for our loneliness.Advent Reflection Questions: Isaiah calls Jesus our Everlasting Father (Isa. 9:6), not as God the Father, but to describe the quality of his character. How does this title reveal Jesus' loving, protective, and shepherding nature toward his people?In a world where 1 in 3 people feel lonely weekly, many turn to distractions like TV, social media, or temporary escapes to cope. How does Jesus, as our Everlasting Father, offer a deeper solution to loneliness and the longing for connection?Psalm 103:13 says, “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.” How does this verse deepen your understanding of Jesus' father-like care and compassion for you?Reflecting on the human longing for connection and home, how does Jesus' incarnation at Christmas address the brokenness in our world and draw us into God's fatherly love?In the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15), the father welcomes his son with unconditional love and grace. How can we reflect this same welcoming love and grace of Jesus as we call others back home to God?

What robs us of our peace - conspiracies and endless information? The coming of Christ is like a great light, replacing gloom with joyful gladness, peace, and healing.

When we think of Christmas, we might think of twinkling lights, or the words of Silent Night that say “all is bright, all is calm.” But that first Christmas was anything but quiet. The birth of Jesus was actually a conflict, as we see in the response of people in power, like Herod. And yet, into this world of conflict we hear the words of the Prophet Isaiah, who wrote, hundreds of years before Jesus was born, that someday, God will stop all conflict. The promise in Isaiah that God will burn (read: entirely destroy) the bloody boots and garments of conflict. And in this world, no matter what conflict we find around us (or even inside of us), the promise of Jesus is the promise of Peace. SPEAKERS: Jay Kim (Saratoga), video (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Isaiah 9:2,5

There is no order, no boundaries. And into this great, vast, chaos, God speaks the first words we ever hear Him speak, “Let there be light.” It says his first act in building a home for us was to separate light from darkness. What would the rest of creation have been like without the gift […]

At the start this message may sound like a history lesson but what we have is a great anecdote to the increasing fear and anxiety which abounds today. As we look at the ancient history we see many parallels to our own time and more importantly, we see God's very own cure for this age old problem.

Message from Pastor Kelly Larson on December 15, 2024

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

When Jesus Christ entered the world, a great light dawned over a world darkened by sin. Today, R.C. Sproul marvels at the radiant hope that accompanied the birth of the Savior. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ultimately-with-rc-sproul/a-great-light-for-those-in-darkness/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

We often see strength as the answer to weakness, but the gospel turns this idea upside down. Isaiah 9:6 announces the birth of a child, a son called Mighty God, a profound paradox: strength wrapped in fragility. Throughout Scripture, God's power is made perfect in weakness, culminating in the arrival of Christ. Born in weakness, He came to fight and defeat our greatest enemies—sin, death, and the devil—securing our victory through sacrificial love. Join us this week as we discover how Jesus meets us in our weakness and leads us to His strength as our Mighty God.

More than 2400 years ago, a prophet named Isaiah wrote words of hope to his people, the Israelites, that someday God might send help - someone to “shatter the yoke of oppression.” Using extreme language, the prophet yearns for a time when God sends someone to “shatter the yoke of oppression” - removing for good suffering endured and suffering inflicted. And not just removing - but shattering. This is complete victory. There's no shortage of suffering in our world today, from large-scale conflicts to interpersonal struggles which seem unlikely to change, if not intractable or impossible. And it's into this kind of bleak world that God promises to enter. Freedom from deep suffering is actually the fruit of being near and connected to God and knowing that He is with us and for us. SPEAKERS: Christina Papoulias (Saratoga), Jay Kim (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Isaiah 9:2-7

The weeks leading up to Christmas are traditionally called “advent” - a word which means “arrival” - in which we take time to pause and reflect on the arrival of Jesus, and what that means and meant for the world and for us. The first week's focus is on joy - especially in the midst of a dark world. But we have such a shallow understanding of joy; we make it synonymous with “pleasure.” But joy in the Bible - both in the New and Old Testaments - is not something manufactured or concocted or even based on “good” circumstances. It comes from God Himself - and is a fruit of being near and connected to Him and knowing that He is with us and for us. And SPEAKERS: Jay Kim (Saratoga), David Tieche (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Isaiah 9:2-7

Have you ever been afraid of the dark? Darkness has a way of stirring confusion, fear, and uncertainty. It surrounds us in the world, and it dwells within us. But Christmas reminds us that into all our darkness, a great light has come. This Advent, we'll reflect on the powerful names of Jesus in Isaiah 9:6 and discover how he brings light to every shadow we face. He is our Wonderful Counselor, guiding us in our decisions. He is our Mighty God, strengthening us in our weakness. He is our Everlasting Father, comforting us in our loneliness. And he is our Prince of Peace, calming the storms of our conflict. Join us as we come to adore the One who is our Great Light!

2024 - 1103 - It's Time To Let The Great Light Shine

Brethren, this Short Talk Bulletin Podcast episode was written by MW Bro Carl Claudy, and is brought to us by WBro John Rock, Solar Star #14, Bath ME. Upon the altar of every regular and well governed Lodge rests the Book of Holy Scripture, typically the Bible. Interestingly, if the Judeo-Christian Bible is not the […]

This weekend, we had the privilege of hearing a powerful message from Pastor Peter Kasirivu, founder of Africa Renewal Ministries, where we were reminded that Jesus is the Great Light who drives away darkness. As followers of Christ, we are called to live for God in every area of our lives and to reflect the light of Jesus to everyone we meet.