Podcasts about Hagar

Dr. William Lane Craig evaluates competing views of the Lord's Supper — transubstantiation, consubstantiation, and the Reformed spiritual-presence view — before defending his own position that the Lord's Supper is a memorial ordinance rather than a sacrament. He argues transubstantiation lacks scriptural support, showing that Jesus' words of institution and the "bread of life" discourse in John 6 use the same kind of symbolic, Semitic imagery found elsewhere in Paul (the rock as Christ, Hagar and Sarah as the two covenants) and throughout John's Gospel (new birth, living water, spiritual food), where literalistic readings are consistently shown to be misunderstandings. He also contends that a literal eating of Christ's body confuses the nature of his physical, humanoid resurrection body. He extends similar objections to consubstantiation, adding that it improperly mixes Christ's human and divine natures in violation of Chalcedonian Christology. Turning to the Reformed view, he argues that Christ's spiritual presence in the Supper is real but no different from his presence in prayer, worship, or fellowship generally, concluding that the Supper is best understood as a memorial in which believers remember Christ's death, examine themselves, confess sin, and commune with him spiritually.

A sermon from Genesis 16 on Abram, Sarai, and Hagar.Speaker: Gregory W Mathis

Being “seen” is a basic, God-given human need. We all need to know that we matter in someone's eyes. In Genesis 16, and the story of Hagar, we discover that God is the one who notices and cares for the outsider—the ones excluded or pushed out. And this is perfectly seen in Jesus, who has come to “seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19:10). And those who are found, are now called to “see” others.

Let Us Know What You Think!Kids Moment with Dottie is a short form podcast to help your children engage the Word of God. www.knoxvillechristianctr.org

Headlines:The regime in Iran publicly hanged two people accused of membership to the Islamic State. Yes, you got that right. The world's most prolific state sponsor of terrorism is punishing, uh, terrorists.President Donald Trump hosted Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House yesterday. Lebanon and Israel have resumed talks over in Rome. This is the sixth round of direct talks, but the first since the two sides signed a framework agreement last month.--FDD Executive Director Jonathan Schanzer provides timely updates and in-depth analysis of the latest Middle East headlines, followed by a conversation with foreign policy expert and "Oh My World!" host Hagar Chemali.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief

Presented by Jenn Miller Do you ever wonder if God sees your pain or hears your misery? We are looking at glimpses of the laments of women in the Bible. In Genesis 16, we read the story of Hagar. We find her running away from her mistress after being mistreated. Hagar experienced the loss of her homeland, Egypt, when she was given as a servant to Abraham and Sarai. Here, she is newly pregnant, and what was first joyous, now seems treacherous as the relationship with her mistress dissolves in bitterness and jealousy. She has been mistreated and runs away into the desert. I imagine Hagar felt so alone and afraid. But in verse 7, the Angel of the Lord, a figure representing God, comes to her. In verse 11, the Lord tells her she will have a son, and his name will be Ishmael which means “the Lord hears.” What did the Lord hear? He said he had heard Hagar's misery. It is unlikely that Hagar had a relationship with the Lord before this point, but God says all the groans of misery Hagar faced, he heard. God entered into her pain and reassured her he knew, he understood, he heard. When you are mistreated or are facing circumstances that seem perilous and out of control, know God hears you. He understands the back story and all you face, and he draws near. Interestingly, after God names Hagar's child, she turns and gives God a name. She says, ‘You are the God who sees me.” She names him “The God who Sees.” Isn't that comforting? Hagar goes on to say, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” God hears our pain and he sees. He cares and enters our pain. For Hagar, knowing God was near her in her misery was the turning point in her relationship with God. The Lord sees you today too, sister. He hears and is ready to meet you in your lament. Draw near to the Living God who sees and hears you.

Can creative writing become a form of biblical interpretation? That is the provocative question at the heart of my conversation with Sarah Rosenson about her new book, Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis: A Guide to Close Reading of and Creative Writing on the Bible (Cherry Orchard Books, 2026).  The modern phenomenon of fan fiction involves readers writing creative pieces that answer questions left open in favorite works of literature. This also describes the ancient tradition of midrash, where readers write stories filling in gaps in the Bible. In Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis Sarah Rosenson discusses the questions left open in the first book of the Bible, and every chapter includes questions for the characters in the stories, which can serve as prompts for conversations or creative writing. Rosenson argues that careful reading reveals narrative gaps: characters whose motivations remain unexplained, conversations that never occur, ethical dilemmas left unresolved, and emotions that are only implied. Drawing on the long tradition of Jewish midrash, she proposes that readers can engage these silences through disciplined creative writing, using imagination not as a substitute for close reading but as an extension of it. In our conversation, we discussed some of Genesis's most familiar stories from unexpected angles. What if Eve's pursuit of knowledge is more complex than simple disobedience? Why does Noah never challenge God's decision to destroy the world? What happens when Hagar's perspective becomes central rather than peripheral? Why does Abraham argue for the people of Sodom but remain silent when Isaac is placed on the altar? And how does the Joseph narrative negotiate the relationship between divine providence and human responsibility? We also explore the broader methodological questions raised by the book. Does describing midrash as "fan fiction" make an ancient interpretive tradition more accessible, or does it risk misunderstanding it? How far can readers imaginatively expand biblical narratives while remaining faithful to the text? And what safeguards distinguish responsible interpretation from speculation? Whether you are interested in biblical studies, literary criticism, Jewish interpretation, or creative writing, our conversation offers a thoughtful discussion of how ancient texts continue to invite new readings. More than providing answers, Rosenson's book encourages readers to ask better questions and, in doing so, to discover that Genesis remains as intellectually and ethically challenging today as it has been for centuries. You can find more about Sarah and her work here. Amisah Bakuri (PhD) is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Her work explores the intersections of religion, sexuality, gender, and migration, especially within African diasporic communities in the Netherlands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Can creative writing become a form of biblical interpretation? That is the provocative question at the heart of my conversation with Sarah Rosenson about her new book, Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis: A Guide to Close Reading of and Creative Writing on the Bible (Cherry Orchard Books, 2026).  The modern phenomenon of fan fiction involves readers writing creative pieces that answer questions left open in favorite works of literature. This also describes the ancient tradition of midrash, where readers write stories filling in gaps in the Bible. In Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis Sarah Rosenson discusses the questions left open in the first book of the Bible, and every chapter includes questions for the characters in the stories, which can serve as prompts for conversations or creative writing. Rosenson argues that careful reading reveals narrative gaps: characters whose motivations remain unexplained, conversations that never occur, ethical dilemmas left unresolved, and emotions that are only implied. Drawing on the long tradition of Jewish midrash, she proposes that readers can engage these silences through disciplined creative writing, using imagination not as a substitute for close reading but as an extension of it. In our conversation, we discussed some of Genesis's most familiar stories from unexpected angles. What if Eve's pursuit of knowledge is more complex than simple disobedience? Why does Noah never challenge God's decision to destroy the world? What happens when Hagar's perspective becomes central rather than peripheral? Why does Abraham argue for the people of Sodom but remain silent when Isaac is placed on the altar? And how does the Joseph narrative negotiate the relationship between divine providence and human responsibility? We also explore the broader methodological questions raised by the book. Does describing midrash as "fan fiction" make an ancient interpretive tradition more accessible, or does it risk misunderstanding it? How far can readers imaginatively expand biblical narratives while remaining faithful to the text? And what safeguards distinguish responsible interpretation from speculation? Whether you are interested in biblical studies, literary criticism, Jewish interpretation, or creative writing, our conversation offers a thoughtful discussion of how ancient texts continue to invite new readings. More than providing answers, Rosenson's book encourages readers to ask better questions and, in doing so, to discover that Genesis remains as intellectually and ethically challenging today as it has been for centuries. You can find more about Sarah and her work here. Amisah Bakuri (PhD) is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Her work explores the intersections of religion, sexuality, gender, and migration, especially within African diasporic communities in the Netherlands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/literary-studies

Tuesday, 14 July 2026   So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done. Matthew 21:21   “Answering, also, the ‘Jesus', He said to them, ‘Amen, I say to you, if you should have faith, and not you should waver, not only the ‘the fig tree' you will do, but and-if the ‘mountain, this', you should say, ‘You be borne, and you be cast into the sea', it will become.'” (CG)   In the previous verse, the disciples marveled and wanted to know how the fig tree desiccated so quickly. With that, Matthew next records, “Answering, also, the ‘Jesus', He said to them, ‘Amen.'”   When Jesus begins a thought with Amen, He intends for His hearers to pay close attention. The matter is something that they should more than just listen to, but consider it carefully. In this case, He next says, “I say to you, if you should have faith, and not you should waver.”   The author of Hebrews defines what faith is –   “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1   Faith is something that requires confidence that something will take place. A person may say, “I have faith that you will pay me back.” It is unknown if that will actually take place, but because of past performance, a trust in the individual, the surety of consequences for failure to comply, or some other reason, the person trusts that the debt will be repaid.   Wavering is a state of letting one's faith weaken for any multitude of reasons. We may have faith that a wedding will take place, but because of ten thousand little things creeping up, we may start to question if there aren't forces behind the scenes working to ensure the wedding never takes place. In such a case, we can double down and say, “I am confident of this outcome.” In the case of Jesus' words, He continues, saying, “not only the ‘the fig tree' you will do.”   In other words, if His disciples have faith that they can do what Jesus did to the fig tree, it will come to pass. If the withering of the fig tree was a metaphor of the ending of the Levitical system of sacrifices under the law, and that a new and better connection to God through Jesus' work has been established, then if they believe in Jesus' fulfillment of the law, they will have that new and better connection to God.   There is no reason to assume that Jesus is speaking of literally killing a fig tree to make a point. It is the metaphor that matters. Jesus' work is what ends the law in the lives of His disciples. Jesus' work is what allows full, final, and forever access to God through the better connection He establishes. From there, He next says, “but and-if the ‘mountain, this', you should say, ‘You be borne, and you be cast into the sea', it will become.”   A new word is seen here, the conditional particle, kan, and-if. It is derived from kai, and, and ean, if. Combining the two results in kan, “and-if.” As for the conditional words, there is no reason to assume Jesus is speaking about a literal mountain, as if the disciples had the authority to have mountains physically moved at their command.   Jesus was heading to Jerusalem. The place where the Temple Mount was. For all we know, He may have pointed at the city, or even the temple visible within the city, and said His words. The term “mountain of the temple,” or literally “mountain, the house,” is something that would have been known to them from Micah 3:12. Thus, this is not a stretch at all. Whatever took place, He is essentially stating that the mountain of the law, described by Paul in Galatians 4, is what He is referring to –   “Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not hear the law? 22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman, the other by a freewoman. 23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and he of the freewoman through promise, 24 which things are symbolic. For these are the two covenants: the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar— 25 for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children— 26 but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all.” Galatians 4:21-26   The Law was given at Horeb. It is what Jerusalem and the temple worship were all about. Jesus just made a metaphor using the fig tree to make a point concerning a spiritual connection to God. There is no reason to assume He is not continuing the use of metaphor. If one believes in the full, final, finished, and forever all-sufficient work of Jesus Christ, the “mountain” of the law will be cast into the sea (a picture of chaos).   The law is an obstacle to a relationship with God, not a means of a right relationship with Him, except as it is fulfilled in Jesus' work. As such, Jesus is giving advanced instruction in what He was about to accomplish and how it would eventually be realized through the use of metaphor.   Life application: By taking verses such as Matthew 21:21 out of their intended context, people make many wholly inappropriate claims concerning spiritual matters, as if they have the authority to do even the most unrealistic things.   At the same time, others arrogantly hint that those around them are lacking faith because they haven't claimed their way into health, prosperity, etc. This type of theology is wholly inappropriate and demonstrates a shallow understanding of the word of God.   Catchy verses are pulled out of their intended context and thrown around like talismans. If the entire Bible is read while keeping passages in their intended dispensational context, people would find out that those being butchered in Africa are just as loved and tended to as those who have million-dollar houses, fancy cars, and who take long vacations.   God's love for a person does not necessarily transfer to wealth, health, and overall prosperity. His love for His people is based on their faith in Him. The Bible promises a future where all trials, sadness, and difficulties will be behind us. But this is not a promise for our lives at this time. If those things come about, that is great. We can thank God for the abundance.   But it is better to live in poverty with strong faith in Jesus than to live in wealth without it. Fix your eyes, hearts, and affections on Him regardless of what you are going through. Have faith in His promises at all times. This is what will please the Lord more than anything else.   Lord God, help us to be people of faith, not just when things are going well, but at all times. May our lives and actions be honoring of You while we walk in faith, anxiously anticipating what lies ahead. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

Can creative writing become a form of biblical interpretation? That is the provocative question at the heart of my conversation with Sarah Rosenson about her new book, Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis: A Guide to Close Reading of and Creative Writing on the Bible (Cherry Orchard Books, 2026).  The modern phenomenon of fan fiction involves readers writing creative pieces that answer questions left open in favorite works of literature. This also describes the ancient tradition of midrash, where readers write stories filling in gaps in the Bible. In Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis Sarah Rosenson discusses the questions left open in the first book of the Bible, and every chapter includes questions for the characters in the stories, which can serve as prompts for conversations or creative writing. Rosenson argues that careful reading reveals narrative gaps: characters whose motivations remain unexplained, conversations that never occur, ethical dilemmas left unresolved, and emotions that are only implied. Drawing on the long tradition of Jewish midrash, she proposes that readers can engage these silences through disciplined creative writing, using imagination not as a substitute for close reading but as an extension of it. In our conversation, we discussed some of Genesis's most familiar stories from unexpected angles. What if Eve's pursuit of knowledge is more complex than simple disobedience? Why does Noah never challenge God's decision to destroy the world? What happens when Hagar's perspective becomes central rather than peripheral? Why does Abraham argue for the people of Sodom but remain silent when Isaac is placed on the altar? And how does the Joseph narrative negotiate the relationship between divine providence and human responsibility? We also explore the broader methodological questions raised by the book. Does describing midrash as "fan fiction" make an ancient interpretive tradition more accessible, or does it risk misunderstanding it? How far can readers imaginatively expand biblical narratives while remaining faithful to the text? And what safeguards distinguish responsible interpretation from speculation? Whether you are interested in biblical studies, literary criticism, Jewish interpretation, or creative writing, our conversation offers a thoughtful discussion of how ancient texts continue to invite new readings. More than providing answers, Rosenson's book encourages readers to ask better questions and, in doing so, to discover that Genesis remains as intellectually and ethically challenging today as it has been for centuries. You can find more about Sarah and her work here. Amisah Bakuri (PhD) is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Her work explores the intersections of religion, sexuality, gender, and migration, especially within African diasporic communities in the Netherlands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Can creative writing become a form of biblical interpretation? That is the provocative question at the heart of my conversation with Sarah Rosenson about her new book, Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis: A Guide to Close Reading of and Creative Writing on the Bible (Cherry Orchard Books, 2026).  The modern phenomenon of fan fiction involves readers writing creative pieces that answer questions left open in favorite works of literature. This also describes the ancient tradition of midrash, where readers write stories filling in gaps in the Bible. In Fan Fiction on the Book of Genesis Sarah Rosenson discusses the questions left open in the first book of the Bible, and every chapter includes questions for the characters in the stories, which can serve as prompts for conversations or creative writing. Rosenson argues that careful reading reveals narrative gaps: characters whose motivations remain unexplained, conversations that never occur, ethical dilemmas left unresolved, and emotions that are only implied. Drawing on the long tradition of Jewish midrash, she proposes that readers can engage these silences through disciplined creative writing, using imagination not as a substitute for close reading but as an extension of it. In our conversation, we discussed some of Genesis's most familiar stories from unexpected angles. What if Eve's pursuit of knowledge is more complex than simple disobedience? Why does Noah never challenge God's decision to destroy the world? What happens when Hagar's perspective becomes central rather than peripheral? Why does Abraham argue for the people of Sodom but remain silent when Isaac is placed on the altar? And how does the Joseph narrative negotiate the relationship between divine providence and human responsibility? We also explore the broader methodological questions raised by the book. Does describing midrash as "fan fiction" make an ancient interpretive tradition more accessible, or does it risk misunderstanding it? How far can readers imaginatively expand biblical narratives while remaining faithful to the text? And what safeguards distinguish responsible interpretation from speculation? Whether you are interested in biblical studies, literary criticism, Jewish interpretation, or creative writing, our conversation offers a thoughtful discussion of how ancient texts continue to invite new readings. More than providing answers, Rosenson's book encourages readers to ask better questions and, in doing so, to discover that Genesis remains as intellectually and ethically challenging today as it has been for centuries. You can find more about Sarah and her work here. Amisah Bakuri (PhD) is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Her work explores the intersections of religion, sexuality, gender, and migration, especially within African diasporic communities in the Netherlands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

(This podcast was previously published on August 24, 2021)   Jesus Ministries, Joan Boney  ...   Genesis 18   1 And the LORD appeared unto him (to Abraham) in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;   (God appeared to Abraham in the form of 3 angels who appeared before him.)   9 And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Behold, in the tent.   10 And HE said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.   (Sarah laughed.)   13 And the LORD said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?   14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD?   At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.   15 Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And HE said, Nay; but thou didst laugh.  

7/12/26. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Galatians 4:24. Hagar:Covenant of the Flesh. Sources: copilot; biblehub.com; Faithlife Study Bible and Logos.com. Blog for this lesson: https://minutesword.blogspot.com/2026/07/hidden-meanings-of-allegories-used-in.html Podcast on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott Podcast website: https://www.hwscott.net/podcast.php Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #Christian_podcaster Barnes Notes on the Bible https://amzn.to/445yM1g  #CommissionsEarned

What does it really mean to be free? In Galatians 4:21–5:1, Paul communicates a powerful contrast between a life of striving to earn God's approval and the freedom that comes through trusting in Christ. Through the story of Hagar and Sarah, we see two paths presented to every human being - a path of self reliance and slavery, and a path of trusting God's promise and freedom. The gospel of Jesus invites us to lay down our self-reliance, embrace God's grace, and experience the joy and security of living as His beloved children.You can join our OneLife Sunday morning gatherings via livestream at 9am and 11am CST every Sunday morning. Or if you're local to the Bay Area of Houston, we'd love to have you join us in person Saturdays at 5pm and Sundays at 9am and 11am!Subscribe to our YouTube channel to join us live on Sunday mornings: / @onelifehoustonListen to more messages from OneLife Church at https://www.onelifehouston.com/messagesIf you would like to give to OneLife Church, you can do that here: https://www.onelifehouston.com/giveAt OneLife, we want to be and make disciples of Jesus who love God, one another, and our world. We are God's people making much of Jesus in everyday life for the good of the neighborhoods in the Bay Area of Houston and beyond.For more information about us and our gatherings, visit https://www.onelifehouston.com

On today's episode of The Metal Breakdown Daily, host Scott Penfold unpacks a massive weekend of rock and heavy metal news, starting with a patriotic firestorm surrounding the Red Rocker himself. Sammy Hagar is aggressively defending his involvement in the "Freedom 250" 4th of July celebration in Washington, D.C.. After severe thunderstorms completely washed out the musical portion of the event, fans flooded social media with outrage over Hagar's connection to an event featuring President Donald Trump. Hagar fired back, insisting the show was entirely non-political, and shared the handwritten unity speech he was practicing to deliver right before launching into Van Halen's "Right Now". Plus, we look at the historic "Back To The Beginning" photography exhibition that just launched in Birmingham. Celebrating the one-year anniversary of Black Sabbath's final homecoming set, the massive display features legendary shots of the band alongside Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Slayer, and Pantera, following Ozzy Osbourne's passing in July 2025. Finally, Megadeth mastermind Dave Mustaine drops cryptic breadcrumbs about an "out of this world" July announcement. Mustaine opens up about his upcoming Peace Sails Megacruise, the brutal lasting side effects of his throat cancer treatment, his new memoir In My Darkest Hour, and his ultimate goal to play a final farewell concert in actual outer space. STAY LOUD: Subscribe now so you never miss a daily briefing, and catch our 24/7 digital stream at LoadedRadio.com or on the free Loaded Radio App.

Episode #307:  The boyz play some Rock/Hard Rock Trivia in "Rapid Fire".  The "Track By Track Battle" features two Sammy Hagar albums released in 1982.  "Standing Hampton" vs. "Three Lock Box."   Danny finishes the show with his review on Sammy Hagar in the D.C. area at the MGM.   Please like or subscribe to podcast on your favorite Podcast Platform.  Hard Rocking Trivia Show T-Shirtshttps://www.teepublic.com/t-shirt/468040-hard-rocking-trivia-show--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hard Rocking Trivia Show Free Spotify Playlists:Hard Rock & Classic Metal (1975)https://open.spotify.com/playlist/47MiCbqHu52sg2a5Wq2GJj?si=1kpPyssHTMukJAsHgtog3wHard Rock & Classic Metal (1976)https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0AsPagPgufK6wQVfSHVgKZ?si=B3eOeFXHR4-R34tfdJxWDAHard Rock & Classic Metal (1977)https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7B1FOoFGODi2WLDDbF3V2w?si=RoFtmqWCTMeDOMH2OYFvLwHard Rock & Classic Metal (1978)https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2MQQqyYSNNhltjUPDefAxE?si=wt3EojO4SGqh_fhvGcEBDAHard Rock & Classic Metal (1979)https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4jozEA8GjWvXFKBevkGdjH?si=PQJDOdxtRzWkmIAstSDidg*** Other playlists also available for free up to 1989!!!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HRTS YouTube Channel:  (Check out the concerts in the Playlists)https://www.youtube.com/@hardrockingtriviashow667

We're so glad you're listening to our podcast! This sermon is based on Genesis 21:8–21, and the story of Hagar. It's the first in our summer sermon series "Rediscovering Forgotten Women of the Bible." It's also our sermon for the Fourth of July weekend as our nation celebrated the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Hope it is a helpful and meaningful word to you this week.To find out more about the sermon series you can visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.williamsburgbaptist.com/summer2026.html⁠⁠⁠⁠.To find out more about our church, you can head on over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.williamsburgbaptist.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have a moment, we'd also love for you to click over to follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.We are a small but vibrant and growing congregation, and there are lots of ways to connect. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can help support you in any way! Thanks so much for tuning in!

Living In the Eleventh Hour

Today we take a closer look at Hagar's story, and see what a discarded slave woman discovered about the God who sees and hears the forgotten.

Today we take a closer look at Hagar's story, and see what a discarded slave woman discovered about the God who sees and hears the forgotten.

Today we take a closer look at Hagar's story, and see what a discarded slave woman discovered about the God who sees and hears the forgotten.

The Angel of the LORD – Who Was He? | Featuring Dr. Dennis Carroll Who is the Angel of the LORD found throughout the Old Testament? Was He simply a created angel sent by God, or was He something far greater? In this episode of the Cryptid Warfare Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Dennis Carroll to examine one of the most fascinating and debated subjects in Scripture. Together, we explore the identity of the Angel of the LORD and why many believe these encounters were pre-incarnate appearances of Jesus Christ before His birth in Bethlehem. We discuss key biblical accounts involving Hagar, Abraham, Moses at the burning bush, Gideon, Manoah, and others, looking at why the Angel of the LORD speaks with the authority of God, receives worship, forgives sin, and reveals God's presence in ways that set Him apart from created angels. Join us as we dive into the biblical evidence, connect the Old and New Testaments, answer common objections, and reveal how these extraordinary encounters point to Jesus Christ and God's redemptive plan from the very beginning. If you've ever wondered who the Angel of the LORD really was, this episode will challenge you to look deeper into Scripture and see the incredible consistency of God's revelation throughout the Bible.   Dr. Dennis Carroll is a National and Internationally Known Writer/Author and an Authority on The Occult and Folklore. His career in all Fields of the Paranormal and The Supernatural has spanned over 55+ Years. He is a Spiritual Research and Demonology Consultant and a Cryptid and Ufology Investigative Field Researcher. He is a Retired Law Enforcement Officer, an Ordained Minister, Doctor of Metaphysics, Parapsychologist and A Certified Paranormal Investigator. His Books are on Amazon and Barnes/Noble. Website: denniswcarroll.com Email: denniswcarroll@gmail.com.)   Ways to Support and Connect with Dr. Dennis Carroll (Hunting the Shadows) :  https://youtube.com/@huntingtheshadows denniswcarroll.com denniswcarroll@gmail.com     Help a brother out and buy me a Coffee  (Monthly or one time donation keeps the show going): We know there is room for improvement and have decided to ask you (Our amazing listeners) to help the podcast grow! This will help with better audio, expedition funding, and much more!   https://venmo.com/u/cryptidwarfare     Email me:  Podcast Cryptidwarfare@gmail.com   Critter/Cryptid Control/Consulting  C.WOPPS@protonmail.com C.woperations17905@gmail.com         Help support our mission in giving you the best podcast on ? Anchor.fm/Spotify, iTunes, Podbean +   Make sure to give me a ️️️️️ review :). Thank yall!    Cryptid Warfare: https://www.instagram.com/cryptid_warfare_pod_cast/ youtube: www.youtube.com/@cryptidwarfare   Podcast Shoutout! Studio Sinister Podcast  The Sinister Signal: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheSinisterSignal      Instagram: @studiosinisterpod X/Twitter: @rawbydesign01 Email: studiosinisterpod@gmail.com     Business Shout Outs:   C.W OPERATIONS & SURVIVAL  Owner & Operator : Drew M Critter Hitters / Monster Hunters for Hire email: c.woperations17905@gmail.com. or  C.WOPPS@protonmail.com    Lantern Rescue  lanternrescue.org https://l.instagram.com/? email : Korrin@lanternrescue.org   Tier1 Restoration  Brain Cochrans phone = 615-809-9839 https://tier1restoration.godaddysites.com/   Bearded Brothers Trucking  Danny Vega  https://vegabrostn.com/   BerryHill Window Cleaning  https://www.berryhillwindowcleaningtn.com/     The Tac Patch  https://www.instagram.com/thetacpatch_?igsh=MWFidzk3d2tib3Ztdw== https://thetacpatch.com/   FLatTopK9  Owner - Tim Russell  www.FlatTopK9.com   Stead Fast OverLand Owner - Jerrett Hudson https://www.instagram.com/steadfastoverland?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==     kingdom.defense.llc   Part Owner : Mr. Charlie  https://www.instagram.com/kingdom.defense.llc?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==   https://www.instagram.com/anestillc?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==     Amazing outtro ? by my friend D & Andrew (Walking Lightly Tones Studios Music) as well as Paul. Check out CallhimD Spotify and Instagram give him a listen/follow https://open.spotify.com/artist/16BHUS6UGILgxsBEUxqQJ https://www.instagram.com/call.him.d?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==   And Michael Ivanoskos Links to his music :   https://youtube.com/channel/UC5gY9r8Wce6JY5CV07tgcXg?si=vWMTRupk0nP2z64T - Master Intelligence    https://youtube.com/@stbrnsal?si=SdBGyj52TIyMtLj3 Stbrn Sal     https://open.spotify.com/artist/2m9xZljokr6NeDNqun9iF9?si=sGaPvhQfQ-i-SGHNtX0IJA Master Intelligence      https://open.spotify.com/artist/0feKjWbywqDDTYg2R9X84a?si=16cFs2ncRqmN89wIErHaew Stbrn Sal   https://music.apple.com/us/artist/master-intelligence/1727782900 Master Intelligence    https://music.apple.com/us/artist/stbrn-sal/1468211742              

How can New Jerusalem (“Jerusalem above”) be “the mother of us all” (all born again believers)? Why is the contrast between heavenly Jerusalem and earthly Jerusalem compared to Sarah and Hagar in the epistle to the Galatians? And why did the apostle Paul name God's New Covenant people “children of the freewoman”? Many mysterious, scriptural metaphors will be revealed during this episode.Ministry website: www.shreveministries.orgComparative religion website: www.thetruelight.netThe “Catholic Project” website: www.toCatholicswithlove.orgVideo channel: www.YouTube.com/mikeshreveministriesAll audio-podcasts are shared in a video format on our YouTube channel.Get Mike Shreve's book revealing the spiritual identity of the sons and daughters of God:WHO AM I? Dynamic Declarations of Who You Are in ChristMike Shreve's other podcastRevealing the True Light—a study on comparative religion subjects, as well as mysterious or controversial biblical subjects: https://www.charismapodcastnetwork.com/show/revealingthetruelight

Hagar or Sarah — which woman's son are you? In this message from Galatians 4:21–31, Dr. John unpacks Paul's striking allegory of two women, two covenants, and two ways of seeking God's promise — one by human effort, one by faith. A powerful reminder that the children of grace will always be opposed by the children of the flesh, and why the church must never compromise on it.No Compromise: The book of Galatians was written because the gospel was under attack — and it still is today. From false teachers in ancient Galatia to the distortions we encounter in our own time, the battle over the heart of the Christian faith has never stopped. Join Dr. John for this four-part series as he works through one of Scripture's most urgent letters, asking what the true gospel is, where it comes from, and why getting it right changes everything.

Today's Scripture: Genesis 21:14–19 What if the help you need is closer than you can see right now? In today's episode, Dr. Alison reflects on the story of Hagar in the wilderness—a woman who had been used, cast out, and left to survive what she did not choose. When the water runs out, Hagar reaches the end of herself. But God hears, draws near, and opens her eyes to a well that was already there. We explore: *Why despair narrows our vision Need help finding the well in front of you?Visit dralisoncook.com/podcast and use the search bar to type in whatever you're carrying today—anxiety, grief, shame, boundaries, resentment, burnout, or anything else that feels heavy. You'll find past episodes and conversations with experts that may offer the next small mercy, resource, or perspective you need. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered if God still sees you in the middle of your pain?In this episode of Shawana Speaks, we're walking through the powerful story of Hagar—a woman who found herself in a place of rejection, heartbreak, and uncertainty. Running into the wilderness seemed like her only option, but it was there that she experienced a life-changing encounter with God.Together, we'll explore the difference between creating distance and embracing the discomfort that often leads to healing. We'll also talk about what happens when we try to "help God" fulfill His promises instead of trusting His timing, and how our own decisions can lead us into seasons we never expected.Most importantly, you'll be reminded of this life-changing truth: God sees you. He hears you. And He has not forgotten you.Whether you're navigating disappointment, waiting on God, or simply trying to make sense of your current season, this episode is a reminder that your wilderness is not the end of your story. The same God who met Hagar in the desert is still meeting His children today.Press play and be encouraged. Your story isn't over—and you are never unseen.Scripture References: Genesis 16:1–14, Genesis 21:14–21, Psalm 34:18, Psalm 139:7–12

In this first message, Hagar: The God Who Sees, we reflect on the story of Hagar and discover a powerful truth: God sees us in every season. Even when life feels uncertain, painful, or unnoticed, His presence meets us right where we are. Listen in and be reminded that you are never outside of God's care or attention.

Kung nabibigatan ka o nanghihina ang iyong loob, baka kagaya ni Hagar, kailangan mo ring marinig ang sasabihin sa iyo ng Diyos. Hindi mo man makita ang iyong hinaharap, maniwala ka na kita ka ng Diyos. Ituturo Niya sa iyo ang tamang daan sa kinabukasan mo. All Rights Reserved, CBN Asia Inc.https://www.cbnasia.com/giveSupport the show

For the ad-free version of this episode, subscribe to Politicology+ at https://politicology.com/plus In this episode, Ron talks to Jay Solomon (executive director of investigations at the Program on Extremism at George Washington University and cohost of The Threat podcast) and Hagar Chemali (former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN and cohost of The Threat podcast) about what the latest war with Iran reveals about the limits of American power. They explore why allies failed to rally around the United States, how the Strait of Hormuz became a political weapon, and why both ends of the political spectrum increasingly argue that America itself is the problem. Then they trace the radicalization of one young American activist as a window into the forces pulling at the country from the outside.  Later, Ron, Jay, and Hagar turn to corruption, transactional foreign policy, and where American leadership goes once the old institutions can no longer be rebuilt. They discuss: (5:01) What this war revealed about the limits of American power (6:41) Why allies didn't rally, and the Strait of Hormuz as a toll booth (8:34) The case that confrontation with Iran was inevitable (15:21) The left's turn: DSA, the Mamdani primaries, and a hollowing party (20:26) Populism meets foreign policy (25:52) The radicalization of Calla Walsh (35:02) Utopian movements and the dream of a perfectible world (39:09) The anti-war tradition versus foreign influence (46:30) The right's turn: JD Vance, Qatar, Pakistan, and the Quincy Institute (54:40) Transactionalism, corruption, and values that left the room (1:02:41) Anti-Semitism, legitimate debate, and the new litmus tests (1:09:47) What Israel does if American support collapses (1:13:12) The industrial complexes and their competing incentives (1:21:47) Iran's real motives and the lessons of the pallets of cash (1:33:49) Is this our Suez Canal moment? Check out The Threat podcast: The Threat podcast: https://bit.ly/3QPoKhZ Follow Ron on Twitter:https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Follow Jay on Twitter: https://x.com/FPJaySolomon Follow Hagar on Twitter: https://x.com/HagarChemali  Email your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at ‪(202) 455-4558‬  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the profound comfort that awaits those who mourn through the story of Hagar's plight.In this episode, we delve into the depth of mourning and the promise of divine comfort, exploring the heart-wrenching journey of Hagar. Join us as we uncover how God's presence transforms sorrow into solace and brings hope to the brokenhearted.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 5:4, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV...

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike explores Galatians 4:21–31 and Paul's powerful illustration of Hagar and Sarah to reveal the difference between living under the law and living by God's promise. Through the Old Testament story of Abraham's two sons, Paul shows that there are only two ways to approach God: trusting in human effort or trusting in His grace. Hagar represents the covenant of law, which leads to slavery, while Sarah represents the covenant of promise, which brings freedom and inheritance. As children of promise through faith in Christ, we are no longer slaves striving to earn God's favor but beloved sons and daughters who freely receive His grace. Join us as we discover the joy and freedom of living as children of the free woman, resting in God's promises rather than our own performance.

If you want to give through Grace Church you can do so here: https://pushpay.com/g/grace-alone?src=hpp&r=monthlyStories of Struggle: The Pathway Through is a 10-week series where we look at real people in Scripture who faced fear, rejection, waiting, and more—and how God led them through. Discover how He meets us in our struggles and leads us forward with faith, courage, and purpose.To Learn more about Grace Church go to https://gracechurchco.com/In this message titled "When I Feel Unseen or Rejected," Pastor Rick Long explores the biblical story of Hagar, an Egyptian servant in the household of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 16). The message offers encouragement for anyone feeling overlooked, unwanted, or forgotten, emphasizing that God sees, meets, and speaks to people in their deepest pain.Key Takeaways on Navigating Rejection:Bring God all your pain (19:45): Healing begins when we stop hiding and bring our true, raw emotions to God. He is present in the wilderness of our struggles.Listen for God's voice (31:20): God speaks to those who slow down, eliminate distractions, and prayerfully seek His truth in His Word (36:00).Let God alone define you (38:08): Our identity is not determined by human rejection, societal labels, or social media. We are known, loved, and named by God, who is Jehovah El-Roi—the God who sees (39:28).Follow God's direction (45:12): Even when it requires humility or returning to a difficult situation, following God's path—not necessarily the easiest or most prestigious one—leads to true satisfaction and purpose.Believe God isn't finished yet (50:29): God met Hagar in the desert and promised her a future, reminding us that our current "wilderness" season is often a turning point where God provides and redeems (51:53).Ministry Announcements:Fourth Annual Forge Fury Classic Golf Tournament: Scheduled for September 14th at Arrowhead Golf Course, with a goal of raising $120,000 for the Forge Fieldhouse (58:42).Church Schedule Change: There will be no service next Saturday, but the church is encouraging everyone to pack the house for Sunday services on July 5th to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday (1:00:50 - 1:02:22).0:00 Introduction and Welcome0:40 Pastor Rick Long's Message Begins1:58 The Story of Hagar6:22 Four Deepest Human Struggles10:47 Biblical Context of Hagar's Story15:12 The Trauma of Rejection16:15 The Pathway Through Rejection19:45 1. Bring God All Your Pain24:17 Three Ways We Run Emotionally31:20 2. Listen for God's Voice35:54 Four Steps to Hearing God's Voice38:08 3. Let God Alone Define You45:12 4. Follow God's Direction50:29 5. Believe God Isn't Finished Yet56:33 Salvation and Invitation58:42 Ministry Announcements1:00:50 4th of July weekend service times

God meets Ishmael and Hagar in the wilderness, hears the forsaken, and teaches us that our rejection is never the end of the story. With Pastor Kaleb Allen.

New interim pastor Britt Stokes continues our series in Galatians highlighting where Paul uses the illustration of Sarah and Hagar to show us what true Christian freedom is and how we live it out.

June 28, 2026: May God's words be spoken, may God's words be heard. Amen. Ahhh, the summer is here, and vacations are hopefully in full swing. We all need time to rest, renew, reflect, because when we are exhausted, we can start to loose our way. It would seem Abraham, in the story from Genesis, could have used a trip to the Jersey shore, or at least a long nap in a hammock, because this guy is hearing some strange voices in his head. We are told that God tells Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac, the one he had been promised would be the beginning of many descendants, the son he and his wife Sarah had waited so very long to bring into being. Abraham doesn't question what he is asked to do, but instead brings the unsuspecting Isaac up the mountain on a hike. Isaac, for his part, is saying “Hey Dad…I know you want to offer a sacrifice to God up there, I've got the wood for it, but like…where's the sacrifice?” When his dad replied “Don't worry, be happy, God will provide,” that's about when we would hear sinister music playing in the background if this were some sort of movie. Anyway, they get up there, and Abraham says “hop up on that pile of wood there Isaac,” and takes out his knife. Now given Abraham's history of getting it wrong – a lot – I can imagine God sitting there in a big heavenly recliner, you know, flipping through the infinite channels of human existence, and all of a sudden going “What the hell is that idiot doing now!” So God sends an Angel – Stat! – who grabs Abraham's arm, and stops him from doing something really stupid. Abraham then finds a ram caught in a thicket and sacrifices that instead, which isn't really fair to the ram either. I am guessing Isaac had a falling out with dad and decided it was time to find another place to live. Of course, taken literally – this is a very disturbing tale, which, as I have said before, I believe led to the invention of psychotherapy, given what it likely did to poor Isaac and his mom. It is often taught that this was some sort of test of Abraham's faith because the text says that is what happened. I have to wonder if Abraham wrote that part himself – kidding, of course. Yet, if we read it with a discerning heart, we can come to understand one possible lesson the text can teach us today. Sometimes the voice we hear isn't from God. How many times have we seen folks claim to be speaking on behalf of God, or doing the work of Jesus, while they hold up signs that say God hates gays, or stop women from leadership in the church, synagogue, or mosque, or says that God wants the US to be a white Chistian Nation, or God supports the institution of slavery because there were slaves in the bible? So many children of God have been sacrificed in blind obedience to the God of our own hate and bigotry – the God we fashioned in our image, rather than the other way around – and we, the followers of Jesus, have been complicit, even downright responsible. Specifically, on this LGBTQ+ Sunday, may we be reminded of the pain and suffering the church through the centuries has inflicted on those who love differently, or who see the world as more fluid and non-binary. Oh, the altars we, a people called to follow Jesus, have built listening to the voice of a God of our own making – with knives of doctrine and dogma the church provided to others to use against the vulnerable. Just this past week, former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttegieg and his husband Chasten were victims of this very type of hate. Someone anonymously reported that they were a danger to their two children. Child Protective Services were then forced to separate them from the two four year olds from their dads to interview them. To be clear, CPS was doing what they had to do – they don't get to decide which reports they will respond to and which they will not. News reports focused on this false report as being a politically hateful act of partisanship. However, no one can be foolish enough to believe that if Pete and Chasten were Pete and Mary that the partisanship would have taken the form of calling CPS. This was rooted in bigotry, and faith traditions, particularly Christianity, have had the biggest influence on spreading this hate in the secular world. Now some may argue that they stand against marriage equality, and other LGBTQ+ rights, it is a form of love because they were saving people who have “strayed” from the path of righteousness. Well, first of all – who the hell are they to judge, and secondly, our conduct as follower of Christ is a lot like the legal principal that was used to govern the voting rights act…until recently anyway. That principal held that the law doesn't care about our intention. The law is concerned about how the act impacts others. Sadly, with this Supreme Court, that seems to have been tossed in the trash heap of history, but we answer to a higher calling, so we absolutely can not ignore the impact of our actions. Now, to see this play out, take a look again at the case of Abraham. He may have thought God told him to do this, but if he had just thought about who God is, and the impact this would have on his son and his wife, he would know that was not possible. Oh sure, the bible tries to clean it up a bit for this patriarch, but we all know that God would not ask that of us. And, not for nuthin', Abraham had a track record of thinking he was doing the right thing by God and messing it up pretty badly. You would think he would have realized that by now having tried to pawn off his wife as his sister to save his hide, conscripted Hagar into sexual slavery because he didn't think God was moving fast enough on the loads of descendants promise, and then, as we heard last Sunday, sending her and their young son out into a sure death to avoid annoying his wife. Thankfully, God interceded then too. Abraham sure kept God very busy. So, what about us? How do we avoid the same mistake? How do we know if we are listening to God, or if we are listening to a God of our own making? Well, one way is to read the gospel we heard today and ask ourselves a simple question – is what we think God is asking us to do like offering a cup of cold water to a child of God? Or is it more like drinking it ourselves, wastefully pouring it out, or throwing it in that child's face? The thing is, throughout his ministry, Jesus was very clear about what God wants from us. You must see and hear the voices of the oppressed – go to them, be a healing presence for them, and welcome them as you would him. And to make that point, he says in the passage we heard today, “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me…and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple– truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.” Think about that – Jesus uses the word welcome or receive 6 times! 6 times! Clearly this is important. Clearly Jesus wants us to welcome everyone as we would him. But there is more to his message that gets lost to us because we are not living in 1st century Judea or under the Roman Empire. Jesus chooses a cup of cold water to a little child as a way of describing what we should do. There are some important things to note about this. First, water was (and still is) required for life. In those days, you couldn't just turn on the tap or pop into a WaWa to grab a bottle of it. If you weren't living by a body of water, you had work to do to get it – digging a well, and then hauling it up from the ground. Without it, you died – as we saw in the story last week as Hagar feared her son would, until God provided a fountain in the desert. That is why Jesus describes himself in the Gospel of John as the living water. Secondly, in Jesus' time, children were not showered with attention by the adults around them. Until they grew, they had the same status as slaves – which meant they were to be ignored for the most part. So the setting here is important. Jesus is telling his disciples, telling us, that it is the “little ones” – the vulnerable of our world, the ones we have pushed to the margins – it is they that thirst the most for what is given so plentifully to others – respect, love, and welcome. Jesus calls all who follow him to be his water of life to those who are dying from thirst on the altar of our neglect, our hate, our selfishness, and our indifference. And so, understanding what Jesus asks of us, perhaps the larger church would do well to reflect on its role in persecuting people who love and live differently, especially in this Pride month. We have come a long way, to be sure, but there is still much more work to do to atone for our sins against LGBTQ+ people, to ensure they are fully welcomed, and to stand beside them in their fight for full equality. Yet even knowing this, we sometimes can be left wondering how we can possibly make a difference with so much injustice swirling all around us every single moment of every single day. It just seems like an impossible task. But Jesus didn't suggest his disciples raise millions, or overturn the Roman empire. He uses this simple act – a cup of water – the very thing of life – as an act of welcoming him – an example of what we can do. In other words, the smallest acts of compassion, empathy, love, and grace matter and are enough, if it is all we are able to do. We don't have to wear capes and jump tall buildings. We don't have to lead lives that are pure and pious. We just have to have eyes to see the vulnerable, hearts to hear where God is calling us, and a desire to welcome Jesus who thirsts. This we can do. This we have been doing here, to be sure. And yet there are times when even that seems too much for our weary soul. I know many of you have been active in justice mission and ministry in Christ's name for years. You know that it is the life we are called to, the direction that God's voice will lead us if we listen. But in these insane days of our nation, this work has been non-stop, often overwhelming, and seemingly without end. It is no wonder that so many of us are exhausted and in need of rest. When we are worn to the bone, or see the enormity of the injustice everywhere and all the time, we can become discouraged, despairing, and feel a bit lost ourselves. That type of exhaustion will always lead to a place where God's voice will be hard for us to hear. There is a story I shared with you'all several years ago and perhaps we need to hear it again: An explorer in Africa, anxious to press ahead with his journey, paid his porters for a series of forced marches. But almost within reach of their destination, they set down their bundles and refused to budge. No amount of extra payment would convince them otherwise. They said they had to wait for their souls to catch up. They had to wait for their souls to catch up. God needs you to listen, Jesus needs you for mission, and the Holy Spirit needs you to join her in the world…but we can't do any of that until we let our souls catch up. So how do we find that rest we so often need, especially if we don't get much vacation time? Well, the first thing is to take what we do have and set boundaries to ensure it is truly kept. Now, this is not easy to do in our 7×24 work lives caused by the prevalence of devices that keep everyone connected all of the time. These days getting some downtime is as filled with as many dependencies and setbacks as any large scale project plan. Even if we have time off, our personal schedules can sometimes look like the battle plans for D-Day. But, if we really think about it, companies, families, community groups, even churches – they would all survive time without us if we got hit by a bus, right? They would figure it out. So, we can do this, but it will take diligence. We will need to set boundaries that guard our time off – weekends, vacations, personal days, whatever it may be, remembering that this isn't selfishness. It's like the instruction flight attendants give you about putting your oxygen mask on before helping others – You cannot serve others if you are depleted yourself. And there is another way to allow your soul to catch up – come here. Come here to be nourished. You know, it is the one time when, because it is a religious practice, legally a business cannot stop you, which means that unless you are on-call for something or someone, you get two hours of respite. Here you are welcomed with the living water of Christ. Here you are nourished in community and in Him. Here you are given time to listen, really listen – with phone, tablet, computer – all of it – off. So, in the days ahead, with so many children of God in need of even the smallest cup of cold water to quench their thirst, allow time to see that child within yourself – and come to this table alongside your parish family to let your souls catch up. Because I can assure you that the lives you will change in the world, and you will, it all starts with the one that is changed here first. Amen. For the audio, click below, or subscribe to our iTunes Sermon Podcast by clicking here (also available on Audible): Sermon Podcast https://christchurchepiscopal.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Sermon-June-28-2026-1.m4a The Rev. Diana L. Wilcox Christ Church in Bloomfield & Glen Ridge June 28, 2026 Fifth Sunday After Pentecost 1st Reading – Genesis 22:1-14 Psalm 13 2nd Reading – Romans 6:12-23 Gospel – Matthew 10:40-42

Genesis 17 is not written for people who have it all together. It is written for people who have heard from God, made a mess in the waiting, and still need Him to speak again. After thirteen years of silence following Abram's detour with Hagar, God shows up and renews the same covenant He made years before. Before giving a single instruction, He reveals Himself as El Shaddai, God Almighty, because His commands always flow from His character. He calls Abram to walk before Him faithfully and to be blameless, not meaning sinless perfection, but wholehearted and undivided surrender. Many people are not failing because they openly reject God. They are failing because they are divided, half trusting and half controlling, half believing the promise and half engineering the outcome.God renames Abram as Abraham, father of many nations, and Sarai as Sarah, speaking identity over them according to the promise rather than the present reality. The sign of circumcision is given not to create the covenant but to mark belonging to it. In the same way, a life that belongs to God today should bear visible marks of that belonging, not through performance, but through truth telling, generosity, repentance, and embodied obedience. When Abraham laughs at the promise and asks God to simply bless Ishmael instead, God responds with grace toward Ishmael but remains clear that His covenant will be established with Isaac. God is gracious toward our detours, but He does not rewrite His covenant around the shortcuts fear produces.One of the most powerful moments in the chapter is easy to overlook. After God speaks, Abraham obeys on that very day. Not eventually. Not after processing it for months. That very day, at 99 years old. Real faith does not just admire what God says. It moves. Covenant living is not about being impressive or perfect. It is about being wholehearted. God is not asking for a polished performance. He is asking for a surrendered life, trusting that the same God who kept His word to Abraham is still keeping His word today.

In our readings today the story of Abraham, Sarah and Hagar, along with that of Jesus calling his disciples, give us much to ponder. Because of that nagging (and all too natural) anxiety of committing our lives to God, we too, often circumvent His best for us. Although fear and the deceit of self-preservation can overwhelm us, God has provided a way to enable us to live faithfully.

How can Hagar's encounters with God reshape our understanding of purpose? What does it mean to find meaning not in changed circumstances, but in seeing the God who sees?

Have you ever felt invisible, used, forgotten, or pushed to the side? This week in Their Story, Our Lesson, we sit with Hagar: a servant with no power over her own story, cast aside in the wilderness by the very people who needed her. What happens next is one of the most tender moments in all of Scripture and it carries a name that might just change how you see yourself. El Roi. The God who sees. Support the show

Have you ever looked at a situation in your life and thought, "I really messed this up"?In this encouraging message, Robert Hotchkin shares a powerful revelation from the life of Abraham that will help you break free from shame, regret, and the fear that you've somehow disqualified yourself from God's promises.Through the story of Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael, you'll discover why God's faithfulness is greater than your failures, why His promises are not dependent upon your perfection, and why your mistakes are not bigger than the Great I AM.No matter how complicated the situation may seem, God is still well able to get you past your mess and bring you into His promises.Scriptures: Genesis 15–17

Notes Matthew 10:40-42 Genesis 22:1-14 In this episode, we explore the challenging and complex stories of Genesis 22 and Matthew 10, examining themes of faith, sacrifice, hospitality, and God's justice. Join us as we unpack these biblical narratives and their relevance today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 01:22 Contemplative Prayer and Its Importance 05:39 Exploring the Good News in Matthew 10 10:03 The Role of Prophets and Righteousness 16:34 The Challenge of Radical Hospitality 19:02 Historical Context of Jesus' Teachings 21:36 The Rewards of Recognition 22:13 The Temptation of Celebrity in Faith 23:40 The Complexity of Hospitality and Power 25:01 Human Connection: Offering Water as a Gesture 27:13 Exploring Genesis 22: The Test of Abraham 29:28 God Who Sees: Connections to Hagar's Story 32:06 The Problematic Nature of Sacrifice 34:54 Cultural Context of Sacrifice in Faith 37:45 Rejecting Child Sacrifice: A Broader Message 40:28 The Finality of Abraham's Test  

When kicked out of her home with her son, Ishmael, how did God take notice of Hagar in the midst of her distress, and in turn, how did she see God as a faithful provider? Our walk with God provides us the opportunity to experience the gift of life-giving love reflected in our freedom, liberation, and wholeness – always anchored ...

Maxim W. Furek ( https://www.maximfurek.com/ ) is an avid student of the paranormal. His eclectic background includes aspects of psychology, addictions, and rock journalism. He has a master's degree in Communications from Bloomsburg University and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Aquinas College.He has been interviewed on numerous podcasts, including EXPLORING THE BIZARRE with the legendary, late, Timothy Green Beckley and on PARANORMAL 60 with Dave Schrader. His book, SHEPPTON: THE MYTH, MIRACLE, AND MUSIC was featured on Australia's MYSTERIOUS UNIVERSE.He contributes to FATE MAGAZINE, NORMAL PARANORMAL, and PARANORMAL UNDERGROUND.He is the author of SHEPPTON: THE MYTH, MIRACLE, AND MUSIC, as well as COAL REGION HOODOO: PARANORMAL TALES FROM INSIDE THE PIT, FLYING SAUCER ESOTERIC: THE ALTERED STATES OF UFOLOGY, and THE LOST TRIBES OF BIGFOOT.Max returns to Talking Weird to chat about his latest book - released by Hagar 1 Publishing - PARANORMAL APOCALYPSE.Available here:https://hangar1publishing.com/collections/book-catalog/products/paranormal-apocalypse-is-this-how-it-endsIn this book, he addresses the intriguing question: What if our obsession with the end times reveals something extraordinary about human nature?From a forgotten 1969 song that predicted our technological nightmare to the mysterious drone swarms of 2024, something dark threads through human consciousness-an inexplicable attraction to our own destruction.Max has uncovered a hidden pattern-a psychological phenomenon he calls "Apocalyptic Awe" that explains everything from ancient prophecies to modern conspiracy theories, from Hollywood blockbusters to political movements.This show encompasses a wide-ranging overview of various apocalyptic cults, traditions, and beliefs. It is a mind-bending episode that you do want to miss!

What Mature Christianity Actually Looks Like is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Most Christians know the story of Jesus beginning in Bethlehem. But what if His story started long before that? In this episode of the Riot Podcast, we explore one of the most fascinating questions in all of Scripture: Did Jesus appear in the Old Testament before His birth? Together, we examine the biblical evidence behind what theologians call Christophanies, pre-incarnate appearances of Christ throughout the Old Testament. From the Angel of the Lord who appeared to Hagar in the wilderness, to the burning bush, Jacob’s wrestling match, Joshua’s Commander, and the mysterious fourth man in the fiery furnace, we trace the fingerprints of Christ across the pages of the Old Testament. In this conversation, we discuss: Why Jesus did not begin at Bethlehem What the “Angel of the Lord” reveals about God’s nature The strongest biblical examples of Christophanies Why many scholars connect these appearances to Christ How the Old and New Testaments tell one unified story What these encounters teach us about God’s character and redemption Why seeing Jesus throughout Scripture changes the way we read the Bible today Whether you’re new to this topic or have studied it before, this episode will challenge you to see Scripture through a wider lens and discover how Christ has been at the center of God’s redemptive plan from the very beginning. Key Scriptures: John 1:1–3 John 8:58 Genesis 16 Genesis 22 Genesis 32 Exodus 3 Joshua 5 Daniel 3 Luke 24:27 Hebrews 13:8 What do you think? Do you believe the Angel of the Lord was a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ? Which Old Testament encounter stands out to you the most? Thanks for listening and don’t forget to: Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Instagram Subscribe to our Youtube Channel Follow us on Rumble The RIOT PODCAST is a listener-supported podcast: Donate Now

Bill Maher and his guests answer viewer questions after the show. (Originally aired 6/12/26) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Notes Matthew 10:24-39 Genesis 21:8-21 In this episode, we explore the challenging teachings of Jesus in Matthew 10, the story of Hagar in Genesis 21, and their implications for faith, family, and social justice. We also discuss the importance of context, interpretation, and standing with the marginalized. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:00 Weather and Climate Change Discussion 02:46 Pride Month and Community Engagement 07:11 Exploring the Gospel of Matthew 09:11 Understanding Jesus's Family Values 15:00 The Complexity of Jesus's Teachings 21:12 The Importance of Chosen Community 25:52 Navigating Family Dynamics and Faith 30:18 Exploring Genesis: The Story of Hagar and Ishmael 45:39 The Legacy of Hagar: Liberation and Marginalization

Transformed Through Trouble I Psalm 4:1 KJV "Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress." — Psalm 4:1 David's prayer in Psalm 4 reveals something counterintuitive and transformative: the very place that felt most constricted — the narrow, backed-in-a-corner place — was the place where God did His greatest work of expansion. In this episode of the Word of Faith Cathedral Podcast, Bishop Dale Bronner unpacks the Hebrew behind Psalm 4:1 (tsarar = distress; raba = enlarged) and builds a message around a principle that changes everything: God uses trouble as a tool of transformation, not destruction. Through the lens of Paul's extraordinary résumé of suffering, James 1:2's call to "consider it joy," the friction principle, and the story of Hagar's wilderness encounters — Bishop Bronner shows us how to reframe every hard season not as a sign of abandonment, but as an invitation to grow. He also unpacks the egg principle — the idea that God doesn't crack you open from the outside. He enlarges you until you break out from the inside. And he calls every listener to consider whether they are positioned to be the one person who shifts the generational destiny of their entire family. This episode is for you if: You're in a constricted, tight, "I can't see a way out" season You've been wondering why things got harder after you committed to God, not easier You want to understand what "consider it joy" (James 1:2) actually means You feel unseen, overlooked, or pushed to the margins You sense you might be the one God wants to use to break something open in your family Key Takeaways: Tsarar (distress) and raba (enlarged) — the paradox of Psalm 4:1 Nothing grows in the comfort zone but mediocrity "Consider it joy" means think differently, not feel differently Friction creates fire — passion always includes pain Everything that comes into your life is either God-sent or God-used El Roi: you are seen by the God who sees you God doesn't break you out — He enlarges you until you break out from the inside "Don't leave your trouble without the glory — there is glory in your story" If you didn't come from a victorious family — let one come from you Scriptures: Psalm 4:1 | Psalm 119:71 | Psalm 34:19 | Romans 8:18, 28 | James 1:2 | 2 Corinthians 11:25–28 | Genesis 16:1–13 | Genesis 21:14–18 | Matthew 23:12

Bill's guests are David Sedaris, Ian Bremmer, Hagar Chemali (Originally aired 6/12/26) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the early evening of October 19, 1970, police and firefighters were called to the Santa Cruz County home of Dr. Victor Ohta, a well-respected ophthalmologist, for a report of a house fire. Intending to siphon water from the pool out back, firefighters ran a hose from the truck to the backyard. However, when they reached the pool, the made a horrible discovery—floating in the pool were the bodies of Mr. and Mrs. Ohta, as well as their two children, and the doctor's secretary, Dorothy Cadwallader. When they searched the scene, investigators discovered a cryptic note stuck under the windshield wiper of Victor Ohta's car that made references to the occult and the counterculture movement. At the time of the murders, Southern California was experiencing an unprecedented wave of violent murders by multiple serial and spree killers, as well as the notorious murders committed by the Manson family. Given the content of the note and the potentially ritualistic way in which the Ohta family had been killed, investigators and residents couldn't help but fear that they may have another murderous cult on their hands. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Come to the Live Show in New York on June 27th! Preorder The Butcher Legacy! Resources Bennett, Bruce, and Christine Connor. 2017. "Killer Prophet." A Crime to Remember. Janaury 24. Hagar, Philip, and Dick Main. 1970. "Neighbor charged in Ohta murders." Los Angeles Times, October 23: 1. Holmes, Christian. 1970. "Doctror, family slain in mansion." San Francisco Examiner, October 20: 1. John Linley Frazier v. The Superior Court of Santa Cruz County. 1971. 22812 (Superior Court of Santa Cruz County, July 7). Murray, Emerson. 2022. Murder Capital of the World. Santa Cruz, CA. Santa Cruz Sentinel. 1970. "Live Oak fire chief first to discover bodies in pool." Santa Cruz Sentinel, October 20: 5. —. 1970. "'Most tragic murder'." Santa Cruz Sentinel, October 20: 5.   Cowritten by Alaina Urquhart, Ash Kelley & Dave White (Since 10/2022)Produced & Edited by Mikie Sirois (Since 2023)Research by Dave White (Since 10/2022), Alaina Urquhart & Ash KelleyListener Correspondence & Collaboration by Debra LallyListener Tale Video Edited by Aidan McElman (Since 6/2025) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.